McKinney Chapel is located within The Cliffs Keowee Vineyards Community nestled between the trees at 2254 Cleo Chapman Road. Our beautiful, old Chapel provides a peaceful place for worship.
When John McKinney came to the Eastatoe Valley in 1820, he wanted to build a log structure that served as both a community church and a school. The building was a collaboration of local folks from various denominations, mostly members of the McKinney, Chapman, Stewart, Mosley, Ellenburg and Bowie families. The historic cemetery lists the names of the many early settlers and family members.
The current Chapel dates back to the 1890's. It was sadly rundown in the early in 1980's when Gene and Georgia Chapman led a major restoration effort including a new roof, new windows, electricity, bathrooms and fresh paint. For the remainder of her life, Mrs. Chapman was a dedicated supporter of the Chapel. In 2023 The McKinney Chapel Committee of Lake Keowee, Inc., purchased the Chapel and effected significant infrastructure restoration.
McKinney Chapel services are held on the fourth Sunday of each month at 10:00 AM. Special Services are also held around major Christian Holidays such as Good Friday or Christmas Caroling around the fire pit. Local visiting preachers from various denominations preside at our services. This variety yields a rich mixture of preaching styles and messages. The services are enhanced by high quality music from our dedicated volunteer choir.
Please click on “Service Schedule” tab for more information.
People gathering in God's house to worship and serve.
Charitable giving at McKinney Chapel.
Due to the current need for repairs and maintenance to the Chapel and other facilities, the majority of donations to McKinney Chapel are used by the Committee for these and other expenses. Our goal in the short term is to give 25% of all donations to local charities. In the past these have included Meals on Wheels, Gleaning House Food Pantry, Golden Corner Food Pantry, Family Promise, and the Tamassee DAR School. Members of the community are welcome to submit names of local charities to the McKinney Chapel Committee of Lake Keowee, Inc.