| "It is a pleasure to inform you that the Tabernacle, Dormitory and Grey Memorial Hall has been designated an Official Project of Save America's Treasures, a partnership between the White House Millennium Council and the National Trust for Historic Preservation dedicated to the celebration and preservation of our nation's threatened cultural treasures. |
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| "Since its creation in 1998 to help address the country's unmet preservation needs, the program has designated almost 700 Official Projects while generating more than $52 million in public and private resources to augment $95 million in federal Save America's Treasures challenge grants administered through the National Park Service." | |
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America's
Treasures
National Trust For Historic Preservation October 18, 2000 |
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| Following our nation's Civil War, the Methodist Church fostered a movement to encourage collective thanks to God for bringing to an end that national act of violence. One manifestation was the congregating of families and individuals in wooded areas, where tents were erected and those gathered there expressed their gratitude in prayer, song, worship and preaching. This movement, called Campmeeting, gradually spread throughout the country. In many instances, the Campmeetings became a permanent and integral part of American religion. | |
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In 1871, a group of like-minded individuals united to form a Campmeeting at Chester Heights, Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Tents were the original living quarters but these were soon replaced by cottages of various styles and sizes. By 1900, the cottages presently existing on Chester Heights Campmeeting grounds had all been constructed. |
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From the time of their construction in the 1800s through 1999, the cottages were occupied by members of the Chester Heights Campmeeting Association and their families during the summer months. In December 1999, the Campmeeting was closed due to court order due to health and safety concerns by the Borough of Chester Heights. From 1872 to 1999, Campmeeting services were held every year on the grounds. However, due to the Borough's litigation, Campmeeting was held at Linwood United Methodist Church during the summers of 2000 and 2001. In 2002, the original injunction was modified, once again allowing Campmeeting to be held on Campmeeting grounds, praise God! The members of the Association continue to carry out restoration and rebuilding activities in order to once again allow full use of the cottages. Special Concerts and Traditional "Old-Time" Campmeeting Services continue to be held on the grounds in the historic Youth Temple Gazebo. Links: |
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