Volant Methodist Church - Volant PA

The congregation that became the Volant Methodist Church was founded in Lockeville (soon known as Volant) in 1869. They initially held services in a barn until they built their first church on Main Street two years later – on land donated by the Locke family. They tore down the old church and parsonage in early 1911 and started construction on a new church building in early 1911. The new brick church (shown above) was dedicated on Thursday, January 25, 1912. The large bell, which was placed in the tower back in August 1911, weighed 2,200 pounds and at the time was reported as the largest of its kind in Lawrence County. (1912) Full Size

The postcard depicted above is a rare treat as it was inscribed and mailed the day after the dedication by local resident Paul J. Simison, a 1900 graduate of Westminster College who served as secretary and treasurer of the building committee. It was postmarked January 26, 1912, and sent to W. E. Simison in Tonganoxie KS. Its revealing inscription reads, “It Cost $10,100 raised all the money yesterday at the dedication enough to pay all debts and buy a Piano. $4000 was raised yesterday so you see we have some free givers at Volant. Folks are all well. Regards to you all. J. Simison.” Simison joined the U.S. Army in December 1917 and was tragically killed in an accident at Camp Sherman in Chillocothe OH in May 1918. His services were held in the church and he was buried in Fair Oaks Cemetery. Full Size

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