315 South Vanderhorst Street
City Directories and History: Prior to the Civil War, a number of African Americans worshiped at Sion Presbyterian Church but following the war, the period of Reconstruction created economic and social upheavals in the community. When informed that African American members of Sion church were eligible for holding offices, it has been stated, “we were locked out of our own church and we built our own Presbyterian church on South Vanderhorst.”
The official history states that Calvary Presbyterian church was organized in 1870, under the auspices of the Freedman’s Board of the Presbyterian church, U.S.A. They not only organized Calvary Presbyterian Church but also an early educational institution known as Richardson School. The first minister was the Rev. Willard Richardson and two of the founders of the church were Ed Henry and Lazarus Johnson. During its early years the church served as a location for many vacation bible school that were widely attended.
The historic church was renovated in 1980, including the brick veneer addition and repainting of the exterior of the church. Calvary continues to proudly represent to community just as they have for nearly one hundred and fifty years.
Stay Connected
Explore history, houses, and stories across S.C. Your membership provides you with updates on regional topics, information on historic research, preservation, and monthly feature articles. But remember R&R wants to hear from you and assist in preserving your own family genealogy and memorabilia.
Visit the Southern Queries – Forum to receive assistance in answering questions, discuss genealogy, and enjoy exploring preservation topics with other members. Also listed are several history and genealogical researchers for hire.
User comments welcome — post at the bottom of this page.
Please enjoy this structure and all those listed in Roots and Recall. But remember each is private property. So view them from a distance or from a public area such as the sidewalk or public road.
Do you have information to share and preserve? Family, school, church, or other older photos and stories are welcome. Send them digitally through the “Share Your Story” link, so they too might be posted on Roots and Recall.
User comments always welcome - please post at the bottom of this page.
Share Your Comments & Feedback: