Fire engulfs historic church in Athens

ATHENS, Ga. (AP) -- Fire officials are investigating a blaze that heavily damaged a church that dates back more than a century in Athens.

The Oconee Street United Methodist Church caught fire Monday night. Firefighters began battling the blaze around 10:15 p.m.

University of Georgia student Chris Ginn made the 911 call. Ginn, who lives in the neighborhood, said he was on his way home campus when he saw smoke pouring from the church steeple.

Dr. Maxine Easom said the church was moved to the lot it now sits on in 1902. Easom grew up down the street from the church and still owns a house in the neighborhood.

Investigators were not certain what caused the fire.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2013/4/260522