NEWBERN, Tenn. (AP) - One of Dyer County's oldest churches has been demolished after last year's spring storms caused irreparable damage.
The New Bethlehem Cumberland Presbyterian Church, outside of Newbern, was built in 1875.
In April of last year, strong winds knocked an oak tree onto its roof. The hole allowed rain to further damage the inside of the church, and members finally decided it could not be saved.
New Bethlehem member Mary Bell Murray told the State Gazette the church was not insured because its few members could not afford the premium.
Murray said members continue to have Sunday school at each other's houses, but they don't have services anymore.
Members were able to save most the pews. They were donated to Discovery Park of America in Union City for its museum.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
