On May 18, 2002 our Camp dedicated a Historical Marker at Appleby Methodist Church on Wire Road in Grover as part of our observance of South Carolina’s Confederate Memorial Day. Appleby Church was the mustering ground for Capt. Morgan Appleby’s Company, which later became Company C of the 24th South Carolina Infantry. This was the first S.C. Division to enlist for the duration of the War and became known as the Gallant 24th due to their bravery and devotion. State senator Glenn McConnell, Congressman David Owens, and South Carolina Division Commander Robert Roper were in attendance as well as Dorchester County Poet-Laureate Jack Smith who was kind enough to pen these words in honor of the event.
Memories of Appleby Church
In 1785 when this country was new
Parishioners gave birth to this old church too
They labored with logs, cut each board with care
Prepared them and squared them and pegged them with a prayer
They hand planed each plank for the walls and the floor
On either side of the altar they placed a front door
They came in their carriages and wagons or walked
The masters and the slaves to the old church flocked
They prayed for prosperity, for good health, and for peace
And they prayed for secession when the peace talks ceased
The church formed a company of valiant volunteers
Who fought for the South for three long years
Now stones guard the bones of those without shame
Who passed on their honor and a good family name
Through centuries of history, reconstruction and world wars
The old Appleby Church held open her doors
And God bless her descendants who with love and respect
Protect the old church from time and neglect
And when we’re all memories may God still grace
This old Wire Road with this reverent old place.
Jack Smith
Dorchester County Poet-Laureate
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