A True Gathering Place

Gathering Place. This has become a contentious phrase in our community’s modern time, as it is associated with a zoning designation that has not been favored by the community. However, it has not always been this way.
Gathering places are very important in the community. Gas stations, in particular have served as informal gathering places within St. Andrew’s Parish. In addition, there are lots of fond memories around such places as the Avondale Pharmacy, Bootle’s BBQ, and Roy Hart’s various establishments, just to name a very few.
These stories usually have a common thread and these places provided the space for people to meet, catch up with the news, or just hang out. As the modern suburban community of St. Andrew’s Parish grew there was an increasing need for more formal gathering places.
For example, churches and civic clubs were being established in the area and needed temporary meeting quarters prior to the construction of sanctuaries and clubhouses. Places for religious worship and observation as well as for civic activity were very important to this growing area.
The business establishment of Nicholas Margiotta was the meeting place for the 18 people, who started Ashley River Baptist Church; the members of Holy Trinity Church worshipped in the Ashley Theater on Sunday prior to their sanctuary’s construction on Folly Road; the Exchange Club of St. Andrew’s Parish held its organizational meeting at the Country Club of Charleston and later meetings at St. Andrew’s Parish High School until their own clubhouse was constructed; John Wesley held initial services at the St. Andrew’s Parish Exchange Club; a home in Byrnes Downs on Savannah Highway served as the first Chapel and rectory for members of Blessed Sacrament as well.
These are just a few examples of where the people of St. Andrew’s Parish gathered to create the community that we know today.  Gathering place stories? You can reach Donna Jacobs at westashleybook@gmail.com