Fire Destroys Century-old South Carolina Baptist Church

Fire destroyed a church which served Anderson County, South Carolina residents for at least 100 years.

The Independent-Mail of Anderson, S.C. reported that New Hope Baptist Church went up in flames July 7, minutes after members preparing for Bible school noticed smoke.

Anderson County Fire Chief Billy Gibson said fire was coming through the roof by the time firefighters from seven stations responded. Gibson said investigators would wait until the ashes cool before a cause could be determined.

Gibson said firefighters had to rely on a hydrant, which was more than 3,000 feet away. He also said tankers hauled in more than 12,000 gallons of water.

Procedures call for notification to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division and agents with the federal Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms to investigate a church fire that involves a minority congregation.
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Information from: Anderson Independent-Mail,
http://www.andersonsc.com