Saint Michael Lutheran Church, a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA), will host a celebration and organ recital commemorating its historic African-American Cemetery Sunday, November 1, 2026. The public is invited to attend. There will be a reception following the recital in the church fellowship hall.
The Rededication of its African-American Cemetery, located at Windward Point Road and Arwen Lane, begins at 2 pm at the cemetery. Pastor Frank W. Anderson spearheaded the refurbishment of the historic cemetery beginning in 2017. Archaeologists conducted a site analysis and have determined the locations of 160 probable burials. Descendants of more than 20 known individual graves have been involved in this reclamation project, as well as the Pleasant Spring AME Church who share members interred in this historic cemetery.
The Organ Concert will be held at 3 pm in the church sanctuary at 400 River Road. This concert will feature the church’s historic E. & G.G. Hook Pipe Organ, Opus 359—1865. Chuck Wilson, American Guild of Organists (AGO), will be the featured performer of several spirituals and hymns. A cellist will also be accompanying Mr. Wilson on several musical pieces.
Chuck Wilson
Saint Michael celebrated its own bicentennial in 2014, noting that the first Lutheran ecclesiastical meeting held in the state of South Carolina took place at Saint Michael on April 30, 1816. The South Carolina Synod was founded at Saint Michael on January 14, 1824.
For more information, please contact the church office at 803.781.0229 or email stmichael1814@gmail.com. Pastor Anderson is available for media interviews.
Saint Michael joyfully moves forward in its mission of serving Christ while recognizing the church’s historical significance to the Dutch Fork community. All are welcome to attend Sunday worship at 10:30 am or to join the community bible study each Wednesday at 10:00 am.