Mary’s Chapel Methodist

This is one of the many abandoned churches we come across on the rural backroads of the South. Once the heart of a thriving farming community in Coffee County, this sanctuary witnessed countless milestones—people were born, baptized, married, and laid to rest here. These old churches hold a vital place in Southern history, and we believe it is important to document them while we still can. Too many have already disappeared over the years. This one is almost gone, but not forgotten.

Finding the history of these abandoned structures can be difficult, but the South Georgia Methodist Conference archives have preserved a few details. According to their records: “When this church started at Mobley’s School, there were too many people to fit into the building. Rev. Rich conducted a revival, and more than 50 people joined the church. This was in 1911, and the wooden church built in 1911–12 is still in use. In 1975, the interior was paneled, wall-to-wall carpeting was installed, and new windows were added. The name ‘Mary’ was for Mrs. Mary Newbern Smith.”

By 1982, the church’s membership was recorded at 45. Though the congregation is long gone, the building remains a quiet testament to the faith and fellowship that once filled these walls.

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