The History of Second Presbyterian Church

A Brief History of Second Presbyterian’s Calling to God’s Mission

In the fall of 1890 the minister of First Presbyterian Church in Spartanburg created a Sunday School mission for the workers at the new Spartan Mill. The Sunday School met in people's homes and at times at the mill store. That same year Mr. and Mrs. H.E. Ravenal donated a lot at the corner of Wofford and Wolfe streets.  Soon, a small church was erected consisting of an auditorium and a Session Room.  In February of 1891, Spartan Mills Presbyterian Church was  organized with 14 members and two ruling elders. In 1900 the name of the church was changed to Second Presbyterian. Then in 1907, following a major fire in the mill village, the church moved to its present location at the corner of Church and College.

The current sanctuary was built in 1926. In 1941 an Education Building was added, the sanctuary reworked and an organ installed. Then again in 1955, an additional education wing was built, joining the buildings together and creating a fellowship hall. Once again in 1980, the church added to its facilities as a gymnasium was erected, now called the Gus Prill Christian Ministries Building.

From its inception, Second Presbyterian has reached out to those in need with many mission programs. Starting with the needs of the Mill Community itself, it then expanded during the Great Depression. During the War years it housed a USO. It provided a place for worship and fellowship for students at Wofford and Converse. In the early 80's it started a Soup Kitchen and an emergency shelter for homeless women and children.

Second Presbyterian's history, from its humble beginnings as a ‘mill church’ to the present day congregation that stretches out to every section of the city and county, continues to reach out in worship, service, and missions. Like all long-standing churches, the congregation today stands on the shoulders of women and men of great courage and great faith.