Rodney Presbyterian Church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Rodney Presbyterian Church
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Nearest city | Alcorn, Mississippi |
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Area | 22 acres (8.9 ha) |
Built | 1832 |
NRHP reference No. | 73001018 |
Added to NRHP | February 6, 1973 |
Rodney Presbyterian Church is an old and important church in Alcorn, Mississippi, United States. It has a long history, including a dramatic event during the American Civil War.
History of Rodney Church
This church stands as a reminder of the past. It was built a long time ago and has seen many changes.
Building the Church
The land for the church was given by a very wealthy man named David Hunt. He was known as "King David" and owned large farms. Reverend Jeremiah Chamberlain started the church building in 1829.
The church was finished in 1832. It was built using red bricks. The style is called Federal, which was popular back then. It has special features like rounded arches and a bell tower with eight sides.
A War Story
The church played a surprising part in the American Civil War (1861-1865). On a Sunday in September 1863, Reverend Baker invited sailors from a Union ship, the USS Rattler, to attend his church service.
Suddenly, Confederate soldiers burst into the church. They tried to arrest the Union sailors. When other Union crew members heard about this, they were very upset. They fired a cannonball at the church!
The cannonball hit the front wall of the church. You can still see the damage today. It's a visible scar from that dramatic day.
A National Landmark
Because of its history and unique story, Rodney Presbyterian Church is very important. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. This list helps protect special places in the United States.