A former church stands along the roadside in Corton — just north of Clendenin along the west bank of the Elk River — with concrete pillars out front. Sunlight pours through the trees onto newly seeded grass behind the structure, and the river flows behind it. An embankment has been cleared to allow for wading, fishing or boat access.

Just a year ago, the building was nearly invisible, overtaken by woods and neglect — a relic fading into the hillside.

Photos: Corton Lodge 2-unit short-term rental in renovated church built in 1913 Close +11 +11 +11 +11 +11

That was before Ryan Stamm found it.

Now, he is improving the property with his friend, Todd Hendricks. While Hendricks operates the power tools and mixes concrete to complete the project, Stamm po

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