News Summary
Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, a cornerstone of the Darlington County community for over a century, suffered extensive fire damage on July 19. The cause of the fire is under investigation by SLED. Despite the destruction, the congregation is showing resilience, gathering for an outdoor service the following day to support one another. Pastor Eugene Thomas is hopeful for rebuilding the church once the investigation concludes. The loss of this historic institution highlights the vulnerability of cultural landmarks vital to local identity.
Darlington County, S.C.—A historic church that has served the community for over a century was severely damaged by fire on July 19, 2025. Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, located at 1372 Pocket Road, suffered significant destruction to its structure, initiated around 4 p.m. The incident prompted swift responses from several local fire units, including the Darlington County Fire District and the West Florence Fire Department.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is currently investigating the cause of the fire, but detailed information has not yet been disclosed. The extent of the damage to the church has not been quantified, but initial assessments indicate that the fire has left a lasting impact on the building and its congregation.
Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, founded in 1869, holds a significant place in the community as one of the oldest organized African-American churches in Darlington County. The church, which relocated to its current structure built in 1910, has deep historical roots and has been a source of spiritual guidance and community support for generations.
In the wake of the fire, the church community demonstrated resilience and solidarity by gathering for an outdoor service on July 20, 2025. New Providence Missionary Baptist Church opened its doors, holding a special 11 a.m. service for members of Pleasant Grove, showcasing the strong ties that bind the faith community together.
Pleasant Grove’s leadership was quick to respond to the crisis. Pastor Eugene Thomas was informed of the fire just minutes after its onset and took immediate steps to encourage members to hold onto their faith and hope for the church’s future. Despite the trying circumstances, congregation members gathered with lawn chairs and fans for the outdoor service, illustrating their commitment to one another and their shared faith.
The congregation, although small, views the church as an extended family. Many members have strong personal connections to the church and its long-standing history within the community. This solidarity is evident as they rally for support during this challenging time.
Pastor Thomas has expressed a desire to rebuild the church on the original site after the investigation concludes. The congregation’s hopes are pinned on the outcome of the investigation, as they look forward to returning to their beloved church and continuing the traditions that have been the foundation of their faith for over 150 years.
As the community mourns the loss of the church’s physical structure, many are reminded of the importance of their shared faith and the role that Pleasant Grove Baptist Church has played in their lives. The recovery process will likely be long, but the congregation’s strong sense of community and commitment to rebuilding may be the first steps toward restoration.
Local authorities continue to work on determining the cause of the fire, as the community waits for further updates. The loss of such a historic institution serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerability of cultural landmarks, especially those deeply intertwined with the identity and spirit of local communities.
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HERE Resources
Fire Destroys Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Darlington County, S.C.
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Additional Resources
- WBTW News
- Wikipedia: Darlington County, South Carolina
- ABC News 4
- Google Search: Darlington Church Fire
- ABC Columbia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Church
- WMBF News
- Google News: Darlington Church Fire
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
