Scottsville United Methodist Church is a historic congregation at 158 E. Main Street in Scottsville, Virginia, dedicated to connecting people to God, to one another, and to the community. The church welcomes worshipers every Sunday and seeks to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world while growing in love and knowledge of God.
Its vision is to nurture lifelong relationships with Christ through worship, Christian education, and fellowship, while expanding community outreach through evangelism and service. The congregation strives to be accepting and supportive as people navigate life together.
Worship and Sunday Schedule
Weekly worship services are held at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday school for all ages begins at 9:15 a.m. The church also invites the community to join Sunday morning worship at 11:00 a.m. in person at 158 E. Main Street.
Scottsville United Methodist Church is a place to connect to God, to one another, and to the community. Worship, Christian education, fellowship, and service provide opportunities for people of different ages to grow in faith and participate in the life of the congregation.
Mission and Vision
At Scottsville United Methodist Church, the mission is to embody the teachings of Christ through acts of love, compassion, and service. The congregation strives to create a welcoming environment where individuals from all walks of life can come together to worship, learn, and grow.
We believe in making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world and in growing in our love and knowledge of God. Through various ministries and outreach programs, the church aims to address the spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of the community.
The church’s vision is to nurture life-long relationships with Christ through worship, Christian education, and fellowship; and to expand community outreach through evangelism and service. Whether through Sunday services, educational programs, or community events, the congregation is dedicated to nurturing faith and building lasting relationships.
A Welcoming Church Family
When you come to Scottsville you are immediately part of the family. Be a part of the mission. Be a part of the activities. Be a part of the growth. Be a part of the Love.
As part of our family, you will know and share the Love of God with each other and with the community. We are deeply committed to nurturing a vibrant community and strive to be a beacon of hope and support, offering programs and services that uplift and empower local residents.
We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and purpose, encouraging everyone to participate in our mission of making a positive impact in the world. Our doors are open to all, and we invite you to join us in our mission to serve and uplift those around us.
Community Outreach and Fellowship
Through outreach initiatives, the church aims to address the needs of its neighbors and foster a spirit of unity and compassion. The church is a gathering place for individuals and families seeking spiritual growth and fellowship.
The congregation hosts a variety of events and activities that encourage community engagement and provide opportunities for meaningful connections. Through partnerships with local organizations and active participation in community events, the church aims to extend its reach and make a lasting difference.
Whether through volunteer work, educational programs, or spiritual guidance, the church is committed to being a source of light and love in Scottsville and beyond. By working together, the congregation aspires to create a positive impact that resonates throughout the community.
Upcoming Community Events
- Yard Sale and Bake Sale - Saturday, September 19, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
- Blessing of the Animals at the Creatures Great and Small Festival - Sunday, September 20, at the Scottsville Pavilion.
- Community Pancake Breakfast - Saturday, October 3, at 8:00 a.m. in the SUMC Fellowship Hall. All are welcome.
- SUMC Clean Up Day - Saturday, October 3, at 8:00 a.m.
Ministries and Ways to Participate
Members and friends can participate in the church’s music program by sharing their musical talents. Support SUMC’s Music Program by sharing your musical talents. Ask for Patsy Keller, Director of Music.
United Women in Faith offers another opportunity for service and fellowship. Support United Women in Faith by getting involved. Ask for Joy Frazier.
The church also serves the wider community through meetings, educational activities, fellowship events, and outreach. Its ministry is expressed not only through worship but also through practical service and shared community life.
Historical Beginnings
Scottsville Methodist Church was founded in 1833. The congregation was originally called the Methodist Episcopal Church, but became a Methodist Church shortly after it was built in 1833.
In March 1832, the Scottsville Methodist Episcopal congregation purchased Lot 26 from Martin and Mildred Thacker for $150. This church property sat two lots east of Valley Street on the north side of Main Street and was deeded to the following church trustees: Lewis Mayo, Beverly Staples, Nathaniel Moon, Lelan Morris, Martin Tutwiler, Horatio I. Magruder, and William C. Adams.
The original square church building was completed in 1833. The lot upon which the Methodists first planned to build their church was on the opposite side of the street from where it now stands in the heart of Scottsville. That land was bought from Benjamin Childress and wife in 1828 and later sold. The proceeds were used toward the purchase of the present site, bought from Martin and Mildred Thacker for the sum of $150.
The town was developing rapidly during the period when the church was established. Scottsville had recently grown with the annexed “Harrison Addition,” a parcel of more than 20 acres, and the economy was booming. The road from Staunton to Scottsville had been completed in 1827, and the town, thanks to the James River, was the shipping point for goods produced in the Shenandoah Valley.
The Original Church Building
The original building had walls made of brick some 21 inches thick. The square room had a balcony around three sides. Although the exterior was rather plain, the interior woodwork more than compensated for the plainness of the exterior.
The church originally belonged to the Albemarle Circuit. Records indicate that its first pastor was Reverend Albert C. Burton. The first pastor also had as his assistant Reverend R. G. Benhett.
The church later became part of the Scottsville Circuit when the Albemarle Circuit was broken up. After a quiet interlude during the War Between the States, when services became infrequent, Paul Whitehead became a regular pastor of the church.
Worship During Difficult Years
There are few if any records of how the church fared during the War Between the States. It is assumed that the congregation met when possible at the homes of individual members.
We do know that in 1865 services resumed at the church, and the Reverend Paul Whitehead led the worshipers. After a quiet interlude during the War Between the States, the congregation continued its life of worship and service in Scottsville.
The church has seen many ups and downs in its history. Flooding in 1869, 1972, and 1985 did extensive damage to not only the Town of Scottsville but also to the church.
Floods and Restoration
Over the years, flood waters from the James River frequently invaded the church. In 1985, the flood waters reached 33.6 feet, the same level the James reached in 1972 during Hurricane Agnes. In 1870 and 1969, water levels reached the second-story windows of the town’s buildings.
After each of these disasters, the Methodist congregation, along with their families and friends, restored the church to a useful condition. The congregation’s repeated efforts to repair the building demonstrate the importance of the church to the town and its people.
One Sunday, as a popular story goes, the congregation had just risen to sing “How Firm a Foundation” when the floor fell in. The story reflects the unusual challenges that the congregation has faced while maintaining worship and community life.
Expansion and Renovation
The church underwent extensive repairs under the pastorate of Rev. C. E. Blankenship in 1902-1906. Then in 1927-1928, the building was remodeled with a wing added containing 14 Sunday School rooms, a new front entrance, and a bell tower.
In 1927, the Methodist Church underwent extensive renovations that added 14 Sunday School rooms and a new front with bell tower. In 1960, the church’s interior was redecorated.
An annex was completed in 1972, but the Methodist Church required extensive repair after a terrible fire in 1976. The building’s development over time reflects the growth of the congregation and its continuing use as a center for worship, education, and community activities.
The 1976 Fire
While natural disasters are bad enough, man-made disasters can be worse, mainly because you don’t expect them. An approaching storm may provide a chance to deal with the inevitable, but something man-made, such as arson, strikes completely out of the blue.
This is what happened in 1976. February 1976 was a particularly bad month not only for the church but for the entire town. An arsonist was on the loose. The culprit had set numerous fires around town, and when he decided to set the W. F. Paulett and Son building supply company ablaze, he succeeded in destroying the Methodist Church next door in the process.
The church’s minister, the Rev. H. Fred Edge, stated that although the monetary estimate of damages was around $225,000.00, “you can’t put a dollar figure on the church. It was erected in 1833, and it is priceless.”
Through the efforts of the congregation, their families, and friends, the church survived another major crisis. Its continued presence on East Main Street represents the congregation’s determination to preserve a place of worship and service.
Music and Memorials
The first organ was placed in the church in 1885, and Mrs. Mollie A. Hill was the first organist. Mrs. Hill was also largely instrumental in raising the money toward paying for the organ.
It is recorded that previous to this time, the pitch was gotten from a tuning fork and the hymns were sung without accompaniment. The organ became an important part of worship and marked a new stage in the musical life of the congregation.
A unique memorial gift enjoyed by the whole community is the set of Schulmerich chimes, which reproduces carillon music from a loudspeaker at the top of the tower. This was given by Mr. and Mrs. Sam Butler in honor of their son, Forrest Butler, who gave his life in World War II.
Another memorial gift is the altar rail in honor of Captain John L. Pitts, a devoted member for many years. Memorials given to the honor and memory of members may still be seen today, such as the altar rail given in memory of Captain J. L. Pitts and the gold cross on the altar given in honor of Mr. Guy Moon.
Most of the pews in the church were contributed by families in the congregation as memorials. These gifts preserve the memory of individuals and families while continuing to serve the worshiping community.
Education and Community Use
The church serves the community not only as a religious center, but the school rooms are used for meetings of all kinds, for a nursery school during weekdays, and music lessons are given in the choir room.
Sunday school for all ages remains part of the church’s weekly schedule. Christian education is central to the congregation’s vision of nurturing lifelong relationships with Christ through worship, learning, and fellowship.
Among those who have served as superintendents are M. B. Harris and B. H. Jones, Sr., who served 25 years each, and Peter V. Foland, who served more than 25 years. The Methodist Youth Fellowship group meets every Sunday evening.
Women’s and Youth Ministries
Two charter members of the Woman’s Society of Christian Service were still living in 1951: Mrs. Hattie Moulton and Mrs. Jackson Beal. This organization was very active and contributed to both local and foreign missionary work and toward the upkeep of the church and parsonage.
The congregation continues to provide opportunities for involvement through United Women in Faith, music, Christian education, fellowship, outreach, and community service. These ministries allow members to contribute their time, abilities, and care to the life of the church and the wider community.
The Methodist Youth Fellowship group meets every Sunday evening. Mrs. Campbell Holt served as its counsellor during the year described in the historical account.
Leadership and Congregational Life
The pastor, Rev. Jack B. Taylor, had been at the church for four years and came from Mecklenburg County. The church’s history also records other pastors who guided the congregation through periods of growth, hardship, rebuilding, and service.
In 1968, the governing body of all Methodist churches merged with the Evangelical United Brethren. What began as Scottsville Methodist Episcopal Church then became Scottsville United Methodist Church.
Scottsville United Methodist Church is today part of the Southern Albemarle Charge, which includes both Scottsville UMC and Mt. Zion United Methodist Church. The pastor of both churches was the Reverend Bruce Lugn in the historical account describing this period.
A Church That Endured
Through all those years, in both good times and bad, the church on Scottsville’s East Main Street has survived. Whether enduring floods like Noah or rising from the ashes like the Phoenix, this congregation has proven they can not only face adversity, but they can survive.
The Scottsville Methodist Church has grown through the years and progressed along with the town. Its increased size and activities stand as a tribute to the loyal and devoted workers who have kept it thriving as one of the largest churches in the area.
Today, the congregation continues to honor its rich heritage while embracing new opportunities to serve and connect with the community. The church’s history of worship, education, fellowship, restoration, and outreach remains closely connected to its present mission.
Scottsville United Methodist Preschool
Scottsville United Methodist Preschool welcomes children and families to a joyful, enriching educational experience. SUMPreschool admits students of any race, color, gender, religion, national and ethnic origin. Students with special needs will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
SUMPreschool will put no pressure on any child or family to become Methodists or members of the church. While the majority of the curriculum will be secular, religious themes may occasionally be incorporated, especially as they relate to Christian holidays.
“The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn.” - Maria Montessori
Mission and Philosophy
The ultimate goal is to provide a joyful, enriching experience for children, and to develop in each child a love of learning and an interest in exploring new ideas and concepts in all of his or her types of intelligence.
The preschool believes in providing a supportive and nurturing learning environment for children. Preschool children learn about themselves and their environment best through active participatory learning.
An excitement for learning is best generated in a setting that presents opportunities and avoids achievement pressures. The program aims to support children in developing self-control, respect for the ideas and feelings of others, creativity, curiosity, self-expression, reasoning and thinking skills, and self-confidence.
A Child’s Day
Each day has a balance of structured and unstructured activities that are both child-initiated and teacher-directed. Children can play and learn cooperatively with friends, explore materials, and learn at their own pace.
All children have a greeting time, structured small- and large-group activities, planning and review time, snack time, and active or outside play. Every day, children have access to dramatic play equipment, art activities, a sand and water table, music and movement, building and manipulative toys, reading books, and nature and science materials.
Classroom materials are constantly changing as new themes arise or activities are introduced. Field trips may be scheduled throughout the year.
Preschool Standards and Responsibility
Scottsville United Methodist Church is a Religiously Exempt Child Day Center operated by Scottsville United Methodist Church. Although the preschool is not licensed by the Department of Social Services, SUMP voluntarily strives to meet or exceed licensing standards regarding the health and safety of its children, the quality of its program, and the selection, screening, and training of its staff.
It is our pleasure to welcome you and your child to Scottsville United Methodist Preschool. We are excited about getting to know your child and are certain this will be a happy and successful year.
Location and Contact Information
Scottsville United Methodist Church is located at 158 E. Main Street, Scottsville, Virginia 24590. Mail may be sent to PO Box 280, Scottsville, VA 24590.
The church invites people to participate in worship, Christian education, fellowship, music, youth activities, women’s ministries, community events, outreach, and service.
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