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 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.
The Chapel was purchased and restored in 2023 by the McKinney Chapel Committee of Lake Keowee, Inc., and continues to offer Ecumenical Services on the fourth Sunday of each month at 10 AM. Local visiting ministers from various denominations preside at our services. Services are also held at major holidays. From May to October we enjoy post service fellowship under the outdoor Gene and Georgia Chapman Pavilion. 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, 75% 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.