This church grew from the congregation of nearby Hickory Grove Methodist, and is thought to have been organized in 1892. This structure was built around 1910-11 after the first was struck by lightning.
This landmark has been a favorite of photographers for at least a decade. I’ve never learned much about its background. Most of the old signage, which was already falling when I first photographed this place in 2009, is now gone.
Memories of Grovania and Ellis Grocery
Mike Paulk: I lived in Grovania in the early 50’s, bought candy at the grocery. I remember there was no refrigeration and all the meat lay on large tables covered with salt. I live next door to some people who’s name was Horton I think. They had a son named David.
Laura Kemp: I remember my granddaddy taking me to this store and buying me candy. He and my grandmama lived next door. I loved the old stores like this. They were so cool inside in the summer. The hoop cheese and pickles on the counter. The screen doors with the Colonial Bread sign. Always people around “shooting the breeze”.