The mission of the Friends of Harshaw Chapel is to enrich our community for present and future generations by restoring the historic Harshaw Chapel—its structure and legacy—through traditioned innovation.
We see a restored Harshaw Chapel as a place where people can experience the gifts of genuine community through:
- Historical and Cultural Presentations
- Storytelling
- Music and Arts
- Worship Services
- Special Events
- Gathering/Meeting Space
- Weddings
One of our guiding values is “traditioned innovation.” This is about a new thing that spouts from deep roots. For example, we will use modern building practices to help restore the Chapel to its original appearance, and new, life-giving opportunities will continue the original legacy that was “for the sake of Christ and his heritage on earth.”
The Harshaw Chapel is on the National Registry of Historic Places and is a significant site in Cherokee County. It is the oldest brick building still standing and is the resting place for many prominent founders of Murphy and Cherokee County. The Chapel has always been a gift to the community, and we look forward to seeing it become so again.
The Friends of Harshaw Chapel is a volunteer committee working in collaboration with First United Methodist Church and other community partners to restore the Harshaw Chapel. This is a multi-phase project including:
- Rebuilding the Roof and Restoring the Steeple, giving them structural integrity and their original appearance
- Replacing Windows and Doors, and Furnishing interior with functional, period-appropriate furniture and fixtures
- Updating Systems to make the Chapel more hospitable for new uses
While staying true to historical standards, we plan to work with local contractors, crafts people, and community partners to accomplish this work. We want you to be part of this historical undertaking, to share in the revitalized legacy of the Harshaw Chapel.
Our goal is for completion by May 1, 2022. Our financial goal to make that happen $153,000. Contact us for some ways you can join in!