Memory Park Christ Chapel – Townsend, Georgia - Atlas Obscura
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Memory Park Christ Chapel

Townsend, Georgia

Dubbed the "smallest church in America," this tiny sanctuary was a local grocer's dream come true. 

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Rebuilt Memory Park Christ Chapel, March 2019. cicconerobot (Atlas Obscura User)
Rebuilt Memory Park Christ Chapel, March 2019. cicconerobot (Atlas Obscura User)
Tiny but mighty with beautiful stained glass
So quaint
Bequeathed to Jesus
Inside
Rebuilt Memory Park Christ Chapel interior, March 2019. cicconerobot (Atlas Obscura User)
Original Memory Park Christ Chapel interior, September 2013. cicconerobot (Atlas Obscura User)
Memory Park Christ Chapel, March 2019. cicconerobot (Atlas Obscura User)
Travelers' shrines, September 2013. cicconerobot (Atlas Obscura User)
Travelers' shrines, September 2013. cicconerobot (Atlas Obscura User)
Original Memory Park Christ Chapel, September 2013. cicconerobot (Atlas Obscura User)
Amazingly built in 1949
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Located about a mile off Georgia Coast Scenic Byway in McIntosh County, the Memory Park Christ Chapel serves as a sanctuary for thousands of travelers passing through the I-95 corridor in southeast Georgia every year. A small sanctuary has stood here for decades, welcoming any tired traveler who happens upon it.

Local grocer Agnes Harper envisioned this place of rest and meditation for weary travelers. Her dream became reality in 1949, when the 190-square-foot structure was constructed. It featured stained glass windows imported from England and seating for about 12 to 15 people. The tiny building was deeded to Jesus Christ.

The original church was destroyed by a suspected arsonist in November 2015, but local communities quickly rallied around the landmark. These volunteers, using as much of the original structure as they could salvage, along with donated materials, succeeded in rebuilding it in 18 months. It was rededicated the weekend before Easter 2017.  

Know Before You Go

Non-denominational worship is hosted by local ministers every third Sunday.


There's parking at the church as well as a BBQ grill and picnic table.

roadside attractions churches sacred spaces
Nearby
Ralph Quarterman Grocery
15.69 miles
Old Liberty County Jail
18.61 miles
Torrey-West House
18.74 miles
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