ABOUT US

While the exact date is unknown, the first structure on this site was the Dillon School, a log building built by the Quakers to serve as a school and a Quaker Meeting House. Records indicate that the building existed during the Revolutionary War period.

 

In 1829 Dillon School was moved to an adjacent property. In 1852, the Dillon School moved once more to its present location and became today’s Oak Ridge Military Academy.

 

Around 1850, the Methodists built the simple frame structure that you are now sitting in. It is one of few original churches still in existence that dates back to the time that the Methodist organized in the Carolinas.  Archives show that this church was renovated in 1901, adding the wings to the church that created the crucifix form that is evident today.

 

The Church was sold to the Fairview Primitive Baptist in 1955. Over time, the facility fell into a state of disrepair and was eventually abandoned in the early 1980s.  Preservation Oak Ridge Foundation received the property and began renovation work in 2009.

 

Renovation work took 10 years and was funded by local citizens who also contributed hundreds of hours of volunteer labor. Care was taken to use as much of the existing historic structure and materials as possible, which is evident inside the facility today.  The church pews were salvaged and restored by our members.

 

Ai Church Community Center today:

In 2019, the renovated Historic Ai Church Community Building was opened to the public.  Management of the facility is the responsibility of the Preservation Oak Ridge Foundation Board of Trustees.

 

The Ai Church facility exists today in much the same way it has existed throughout its history – through the generous support and dedication of private citizens.

 

The members of Preservation Oak Ridge Foundation encourage you join us as we continue to protect and preserve the Historic Ai Church Community Building for generations to come.  As a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, your membership and donations are tax deductible.  

 

On behalf of the PORF Board of Trustees and its members, we welcome you to the Historic Ai Church Community Building.