Ben Clare United Methodist Church - rural Valley Springs, SD
N 43° 30.373 W 096° 28.625
14T E 703946 N 4820124
Ben Clare United Methodist Church is the lone survivor of a town which is now only known in the history books.
Waymark Code: WMB3X5
Location: South Dakota, United States
Date Posted: 04/01/2011
Views: 6
The town of Ben Clare was established in 1888 after the Illinois Central Railroad came through this area, and the Methodist-Episcopal Church was started two years later when the town had visions of being a propering community. It was known first for its tent meetings and revivals; they constructed their worship building in 1893.
The town met its demise in 1912; the post office closed, buildings were demolished after businessmen left the area, and the streets were plowed by area farmers. Now only the Methodist Church remains as a testament to what might have been the boom town in the founders’ dreams.
In 1890 the congregation was organized with 35 charter members. The building was constructed at a total cost of less than $2000, paid for by the members; the bell was purchased for $200 with money left over from contributions. Dedication Sunday was January 12, 1894. The white frame building holds about 60 people. Besides the worship services and Sunday school classes, groups such as the Women’s Aid Socity, Epworth League, and the Young Peoples’ Society were well attended. Worship and Sunday School for all ages are still held here regularly. They extend a welcome as “an open country church with open country hospitality.” Ben Clare UMC continues to be a meaningful place for those who have been a part of this congregation.
Sunday worship is at 9 a.m. and Sunday school for both children and adults is at 10:30 a.m. It is located 5 miles south of Valley Springs.
Church Name: Ben Clare United Methodist Church
Church In Use (even only just occassionally): yes
Date Church Built: 1894
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