The roots of Harmony United Methodist Church in Johnston can be traced to 1825 – almost 50 years before the town was chartered – when George Johnson sold four acres of land near present-day Johnston to a group of Methodists for the building of a church known as Moor’s Meeting House.
Andy Hunter of North Augusta, 2020 © Do Not Use Without Written ConsentBy 1832 the congregation had change its name to Ebeneza Church. Around 1834 the group relocated about five miles from the original site and built a new church, calling it Harmony Methodist for Harmon Gallman, who donated more than three acres for the new church. This church sat near the site of the present church building.
Andy Hunter of North Augusta, 2020 © Do Not Use Without Written ConsentIn 1896 yet another new church was built for the congregation, this one located directly behind the current sanctuary. Also made of wood, it was eventually sold to P.C. Stevens, who used the structure as a barn. Before the church was sold, however, plans were made for a new church in 1912. By 1913 the Gothic church that stands today was completed, and it continues to house Harmony United Methodist Church. The building was renovated in 1950.
Harmony Methodist Church is a sister church of Johnston Methodist Church, with both congregations sharing a pastor.
My grandfather was the pastor of this church in the late 1950s or early 1960s. He passed away when my father was only nine years old, so needless to say, I never met him. My parents were married in this church, and my grandparents and father are buried there. The peach orchard behind the church is gorgeous and so peaceful.
What a wonderful family connection! We just love the name of the church too.