By Shannon McFarlin WENK/WTPR News Director
Big Sandy, Tenn.–The Mt. Zion Church in the Old 23rd District is a precious reminder of the community that was there before Kentucky Lake was formed.
The Friends of the Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge are dedicated to continuing the restoration of the Church, the historic structure which is now located in the refuge.
The Friends are hosting its second annual fundraiser, called “Moonlight Madness at the Old 23rd” on Saturday, September 8.
The event will be held at the Old 23rd Restaurant at Christopher Manor outside of Big Sandy and near the refuge.
Organizer Vickie Miller said, “We are in the process of raising enough money to replace the windows, as well as repair some settling in the floor of the church. Without these much needed repairs, we are afraid the building will continue to deteriorate. The efforts of our friends group, the Fish and Wildlife Service and the generous supporters of this cause have raised enough money to repair the foundation and the roof, as well as areas of the floor and some repair to the chimney. Our goal is to make repairs as mandated by historical structure standards so that the church is water tight.
Last year’s event allowed the Friends’ group to develop and pay for a self-guided auto tour, highlighting the many homes and businesses that were once located in the Old 23rd Voting District.
The event begins at 3 p.m. with a guided refuge hay ride, with pre-dinner hors d’oeuvres at 4:30 p.m., dinner and dessert at 5:30 p.m. and family stories told by Linda Zanaty, who owns the restaurant and grew up in the Old 23rd. Drake Cunningham will once again provide the music. A silent auction will be held, all in the restaurant and old family cabin.
It is located at 10030 Lick Creek Rd., Big Sandy. Tickets are $55 each or $100 for two. Contact Vickie Miller at 731 336 2720 for tickets or you can purchase online.
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