History p. II

History p. II

     The men of the church built the house that formerly was on the corner of Legrand and Claremont Streets.  They worked every day when they were able to leave their regular jobs.  It was not finished when the pastor arrived, and a house had to be rented for his family temporarily.  It was not long before the Crows were able to move in.  

     The men of the church also built the old fellowship building.  This building has always served the congregation well for suppers, wedding receptions, showers, parties, and recently a soup kitchen to serve the community.  This building was used even before the concrete floor was poured. 

     In 1969, Pastor C.J. Blackmon, oversaw the construction of an educational building.  It was erected By P.F. and P.L. Mungo of Pageland, S.C.  After the completion of the building, the old white church on the corner was torn down and the area prepared to be used for parking.

     After Reverend Blackmon's retirement, Reverend Ben Wiseman was called in 1972. During this time the worship center was renovated.  New pews were installed with padded seats and backs.  New carpet and new pulpit furniture was purchased without the church going into debt.

     Reverend Wiseman resigned in November of 1974 and Reverend Blackmon served as interim pastor. Reverend Steve Vassar was called as pastor and remained until November 1980.  In 1981, Dr. Bill Traywick came as pastor.

     Under the pastorate of Dr. Traywick, the church purchased a van to replace the old school bus being used; purchased another parcel of land adjacent to the church's property; completely renovated the Worship Center in 1993.  Two services were held in the Fellowship Building while this work was in progress.  The first service in the newly renovated building in June of 1994.

     A new Hammond 825 organ was purchased in 1995.

     Douglas Anderson was licensed and ordained as a minister in 1997. 

     The Family Life Center was completed in 2000, and a steeple was installed to replace the cross (which was deteriorating) on top of the church.

     Pastor Traywick retired in 2000 and Reverend Douglas Reava was called as pastor.  In 2002, the church called its first Youth Pastor, Reverend Steven Byrd.

     Pastor Chad Vick was called to Westside in 2009.  The choir area and Pastor's office were redesigned and a new clear pulpit was installed.  Pastor Chad resigned in January of 2010.  Westside began a Soup Kitchen in February of 2010 as an outreach to the community and shut ins. 

information courtesy of Earl and Katherine Lee