Historic Pleasant Grove

donating their time and construction materials. The building embodies their ideals in both design and craftsmanship. Following the Carpenter Gothic style commonly used for Virginia country churches, they produced a small but proportioned building. The belfry and spire are particularly fine. The first service was held in the church July 10, 1896. For the next seven decades, the building was the center of the community. In addition to Sunday services, it was the setting for many celebrations, both religious and secular. In 1968, due to a declining membership, the members of Pleasant Grove joined with those of the William Watters Church. In 1980 the church was deconsecrated and sold. The new owner stripped the church of many of its architectural elements, including the stained glass windows, bead board wainscoting and stamped tin ceilings and wall coverings. The Friends of Pleasant Grove, a nonprofit organization, was chartered in 1982 by a group of neighbors to acquire and preserve this community landmark. Through much hard work, funder were raised to renovate the structure. Named for a descendent of the church founders, the Frances K. Moore Museum opened in the lower level in 1998. It displays a unique collection of late 19th and early 20th century household furnishings, tools, photographs and memorabilia from the Sharper family. The display is an excellent representation of everyday life in Northern Virginia agrarian communities. Historic Pleasant Grove Church is available for community activities. Museum tours are arranged upon request. To reserve the building, arrange a tour or to join The Friends of Pleasant Grove, please call (703)506-8270.