John Wesley Methodist Episcopal Church and Cemetery facts for kids
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John Wesley Methodist Episcopal Church and Cemetery
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Northwestern side and front
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 Location in Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Location | 212 W. Warm Springs Drive at West Warm Springs, Virginia |
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| Area | 3 acres (1.2 ha) |
| Built | 1873, 1923, 1982 |
| NRHP reference No. | 13000987 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | December 24, 2013 |
The John Wesley Methodist Episcopal Church and Cemetery is a very old and important church in West Warm Springs, Virginia. It is also known as the John Wesley United Methodist Church or Wesley Chapel. This special place was built in 1873 by people who were formerly enslaved. It stands as a strong reminder of the first African-American community in West Warm Springs.
A Church Built by a Community
This church is a one-story building made of logs. It has a pointed roof at the front. The outside is covered with wooden boards, and it sits on a stone foundation. The church also has a cemetery next to it. This cemetery is where many members of the community were laid to rest.
Growing Over the Years
Over time, the church changed and grew. In 1923, a small entrance area with a bell tower was added to the front. A choir loft was also added to the back of the church that same year.
Later, in 1982, volunteers built a new addition. This was a one-story Sunday School room. It was added to the side of the church and covered with vinyl siding. These additions show how the community worked together to keep their church strong.
A Place of History
The John Wesley Methodist Episcopal Church is more than just a building. It is a symbol of the African-American community in West Warm Springs. It shows their strength and determination after the Civil War. It was a central place for worship, learning, and community gatherings.
This historic church was recognized for its importance in 2013. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This list includes special places across the United States that are important to American history.
