Restoration Timeline

Historic Woolsey Church is being restored to continue its long tradition as a place of community, connection, and service. Through the dedication of volunteers, descendants, and supporters, this 1889 landmark is being preserved and prepared for future generations.

The restoration of Historic Woolsey Church is a journey of preservation, dedication, and community commitment. Through careful planning, historic research, and the support of volunteers, descendants, and community partners, we are working to preserve this 1889 landmark, the historic cemetery, and the surrounding grounds for future generations.

From the completed cedar shingle roof restoration to ongoing rehabilitation efforts, each phase brings us closer to returning Historic Woolsey Church as a welcoming community gathering place for education, cultural programs, celebrations, and events. The restoration effort seeks to preserve the historic 1889 church while thoughtfully addressing later alterations and returning important architectural features to their historic appearance.

The restoration of Historic Woolsey Church is being guided by experienced preservation professionals, skilled contractors, and community partners committed to protecting this 1889 landmark. Landmark Preservation is following preservation best practices to ensure the historic character of the building is carefully maintained for future generations.

Historic Woolsey Church: History and Restoration Timeline

1888–1889 | A Place of Worship Is Built
Harmony Grove Missionary Baptist Church was completed in 1889 and became a gathering place for generations of families in Woolsey and the surrounding community.

1904 | Name Changed to Woolsey Baptist Church

1947 | Changes Over Time

The original steeple was removed after a storm damaged it.

1950s | Building Updates
The original doors were replaced as part of changes made to the historic structure.

1952–1963 | Expanding the Campus
Classrooms and a fellowship hall/annex were added to accommodate a growing congregation and changing community needs.

1976 | Building Updates
A brick front addition was added.

2019 | A Community Comes Together
Descendants, community members, and supporters began working together to preserve Historic Woolsey Church after learning the historic building was at risk.

2022 | Friends of Historic Woolsey Is Established
Friends of Historic Woolsey was formed as a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Historic Woolsey Church, the historic cemetery, and the surrounding grounds.

2023 | Historic Woolsey Church Is Named
Friends of Historic Woolsey officially adopted the name Historic Woolsey Church to honor the legacy of the original 1889 structure and distinguish it from the newer church building.

2023 | Ground Penetrating Radar
A Ground Penetrating Radar was completed to locate over forty unmarked graves.

2024 | Preservation Planning & Research Completed
Landmark Preservation Consulting completed a Historic Structure Report documenting the history, architectural features, and condition of Historic Woolsey Church.

2024–2025 | The Restoration Begins
Through the dedication of volunteers, descendants, community partners, and supporters, restoration efforts began to preserve this historic landmark for future generations.

2026 | Structural Stabilization and The Roof Is Completed
The structural stabilization and historic roof restoration was completed, marking an important milestone in preserving Historic Woolsey Church.

Today | Preserving the Future
Restoration continues as we work to rehabilitate Historic Woolsey Church as a community asset serving Fayette County and surrounding communities through historic preservation, education, cultural programs, and public events.

Explore the Restoration Journey