Old Ruskin Church
Ware County | Organized in 1895
The Old Ruskin Church stands as one of the most unique and surprising sanctuaries in the Georgia backcountry. Its Victorian detailing—with intricate finishes more at home in New England than in the piney woods of South Georgia—sets it apart from almost every other rural church in the state. While the exact construction date is unknown, a nearly identical “sister church,” the now-collapsed Ezekiel Methodist built in 1899, suggests that Ruskin predates it by only a few years and was likely built by the same master craftsman.
Read more...Originally a Methodist church on the Hebardville Circuit, Ruskin now serves as the Body of Christ Church. What makes it especially significant, however, is that it is the last physical remnant of the utopian settlement of Ruskin.
The Ruskinite Experiment
At the turn of the 20th century, a bold social experiment unfolded here. The American Settlers Association, inspired by English art critic and social thinker John Ruskin, sought to create a cooperative colony in rural Georgia. In 1898, settlers purchased land in what was then the sawmill village of Duke, renamed it Ruskin, and welcomed about 100 families—many from a similar failed colony in Tennessee.
At its peak, Ruskin bustled with activity. The town had two newspapers, a printing press, a shingle and planing mill, a broom factory, cereal and coffee businesses, leather suspender makers, a large library, farms, a post office, and even its own railway station boldly marked with a sign reading 'RUSKIN'.
But the ideals of “Industrial Brotherhood” soon faltered. Internal conflicts, financial strain, and the difficulties of cooperative living led to its collapse. In August 1901, The Coming Nation, Ruskin’s own newspaper, announced the end of the colony as its members scattered back to their former homes.
A Survivor Among Pines
The Old Ruskin Church had been standing before the colony’s arrival and managed to endure after its disappearance. Today, it remains the sole architectural witness to that extraordinary, short-lived chapter of Georgia history. By contrast, its sister church, Ezekiel, has succumbed to time, leaving only ruins.
The survival of Old Ruskin reminds us just how fragile these treasures are—and how vital ongoing stewardship is. For nearly 150 years, this church has been loved and cared for, and it continues to serve as a sanctuary and a symbol of resilience.
We are grateful to the congregants and caretakers who have ensured that this little Victorian jewel in the Georgia piney woods still stands as a testament to both faith and the fleeting dreams of utopia.
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24 responses to “Old Ruskin Church”
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My family used to pass this church on our way to visit my Uncle Adrian & Aunt Lucy Morgan, and their 4 children, who lived further down the road that was named Morgan Road because his house was the last house on the road. I never attended church here and do not know if my uncle or his family ever attended but I have always admired the design of this tiny church. Perhaps if I ever visit again I might be blessed to attend a service there.
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Does anyone know who I can contact, for permission to make a copy for personal use
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Please email me at kelly.gomez@hrcga.org for more information.
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Beautiful
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Is Jerry Brown the pastor here at this little church now? If so, please give him or love – he is a special friend for many years. We watched him and his family live and grow up in our little town of Port St. Joe, Fl. May God bless this church
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Yes he is. Is is married to my wife’s cousin. We attend church there every Sunday.
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Are services still taking place here?
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I am getting married soon and as a little girl I’ve always grown up in Waycross and it would do me great honors if there is any way possible I could find out some contact information where I could possibly get married at the church. Thanks in advance God bless.
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Jodi, We do not have a contact number for the church. Sorry. Good luck……she is one of our favorites.
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For many years I have looked for this church as I would be traveling through the area. Thank you for sharing the history of the community and the church.
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What a lovely church
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Does anyone know if the facility will allow weddings at all?
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You might try Charles Crumbley at 912-599-0046. Good luck.
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Does anyone know if the facility will allow weddings for non-Methodist Christians?
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This is the most beautiful Church I’ve ever attended. Mr. Johnny Crumbley makes it even more special. My Dad, Shelly Petty talked about him often telling us great stories of their childhood.
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Do you have any contact information regarding this church? I would be very interested in their wedding policy.
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One of the members in this discussion chain may be able to help you with that.
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I went to this church as child and live in those pinney woods I left went I was 11years old we move to Jacksonville Fl I still go back to this little church couple times s year to see my uncle Johnny Crumbley who preached at that church when I was a child and still preaches to the day
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This is a beautiful church. I loved that Johnny’s service was there. I will never forget this Sacride building. Forever it will hold a special place in my heart
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Are services held there anymore?
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Yes they are. See comment above from Robbie Petty.
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Every Sunday 10:00am.
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Thanks for your response!
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Thanks Frank. Pastor Johnny is a very special person.
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