Townsend, Georgia: Smallest Church in America

I am happy to report that "The Smallest Church in America," a tiny church near Brunswick, Georgia is still in operation as of May 19, 2008. When I went there a few days ago, it was still in great shape, with the chairs and everything looking very well maintained. It is free, donations only. The leaflets there ask you to please do not remove anything, so please don't, but pictures are allowed inside and outside.

The "Littlest Church in America" (Christ's Chapel in Memory Park), as billed by its sign. This 10x20ish chapel seats only 6 per side of the chapel. It has stained glass windows along both sides, a lovely quilt on the wall, a small pulpit, an altar rail, and even a round stained glass window over the door. Services may be held by contacting it's caretaker Effie Gray Young, or the chapel is open for quiet prayer daily. Constructed out of what is probably cinder block, the structure is painted white. It was built in 1949 by Mrs. Agnes Harper and is "deeded to Jesus Christ."

In 1998 a small bell tower (in proportion to the size of the church) was added by Wayne and Toni Moeller in dedication of their union. Outside is a flagpole which proudly waves Old Glory. This is a sweet little spot for a prayer or two among some lovely old trees that shelter it from the Georgia heat. Maybe not the smallest as it claims, but it is charming nonetheless.

A must-see for any roadside attraction fan is the world's smallest church. Even though the church is still active, visitors are welcome. It is left unlocked, so one can simply walk in and look around. Nestled among huge live oaks and pine trees, the serene peacefulness is broken only by the traffic of U.S. 17. The church is approximately 10' x 20' and has a tiny pulpit, pews and a stained glass window.