A nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving historic landmarks in North Carolina’s Catawba Valley has launched a fundraising drive to save Brevard Chapel, a Black church built by formerly enslaved people after the Civil War.

The 155-year-old church in the town of Denver closed in 2020. The United Methodist Church, which owns the building, cited severe water damage and dwindling membership. Plans were later developed to demolish the structure.

Last weekend, HEARTS Collaborative, a historic preservation nonprofit, announced that the United Methodist Church (UMC) had approved its plan to save Brevard Chapel — provided it can raise the necessary funds.

The plan involves new roofing and windows, as well as interior updates, including upgrades to HVAC and electrical systems, accessibilit

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