It was so typical of Emmet & Teddie McCracken and Joan (Joanie) Heyward of Bluffton, SC to agree to host the May 2026 fundraiser for the Historic Campbell Chapel Restoration.

Nestled in the heart of Bluffton’s Historic District, Historic Campbell Chapel AME Church has stood as a beacon of faith, resilience, and heritage for generations. Since its founding in 1873, this sacred place has been a cornerstone of the community.  

Emmet  & Teddie and Joanie are native Blufftonians and know the Historic Campbell Chapel well.  As former Mayor of Bluffton, Emmet can recount many stories and events that happened on and around Boundary Street where the Historic Chapel is located.  Joanie, a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives, cannot count the times she has driven by the Historic Chapel on her way to activities in Old Town Bluffton.

The Evening for Historic Campbell Chapel Restoration was attended by the familiar names that have been a part of Bluffton for years.  The story of the Historic Chapel and how it survived the "Burning of Bluffton" during the Civil War is just another story that attests to the strength, vitality, and endurance of the Bluffton Community.  Coming out on a perfect summer evening to meet and socialize with friends while lending a hand to support the in-progress renovation of the Historic Campbell Chapel was second nature and what Blufftonians do.  

Thank you again Emmet, Teddie, and Joanie for sharing!