“Even the scripture says, ‘destroy not these ancient landmarks’ “ – Administrator of SFAV in 1995.

The Pleasant Valley structure arrived just a year after the Bear Hill School had been moved some 10 miles from Jennings to Grantsville to the Penn Alps property, and a similar arrangement would be drafted for PVMC. PennAlps/Spruce Forest Artisan Village would “provide the land and receive the building” on the opposite end of the county. At that time there was no church among their collection of historic and unique structures. It is a story of rescue and restoration that would require fundraising and the volunteer resources of both men and machinery and financial support from the community.

It was the community’s generous donations towards not just the purchase, but also materials like paint and primer that helped to restore and beautify its modest, white clapboard exterior. The funds needed for this and pews, the organ, a fire escape and drywall were raised through a very successful “Save The Church” campaign.

The building was cut into pieces, loaded onto trucks for the 40 mile trip to be reassembled and positioned on it’s new foundation. Exterior restoration included replacing and restoring the stained glass windows. Within a year of its arrival the authentic stone foundation, new electrical wiring, and a plank wood ceiling had been completed. Likewise, a distinctive green tin roof was installed to insure there would be no damage to structure’s interior once it was complete.

The Village Church sustained damage to its foundation and roof in 2020 storm, and as always funding general maintenance is a challenge. We appreciate all donations, general and specific. Note "The Village Church" on your tax-exempt donation form if you would like the funds to go the The Village Church. Thank You!