About

Our Story

Our History

Yopp’s Primitive Baptist Church, known commonly as Yopp’s Meeting House, takes its name from Jere Yopp, who deeded an acre of land to the church and trustees in 1813. Yopp probably financed the construction of the first church building, which stood near School House Branch on Hwy 172 in Sneads Ferry, NC, not too far from the original structure. The first church burned down in a fire. The current church was built between 1880 and 1892. Yopp’s Meeting House displays a variant of the nave plan of architecture, with two entries and a row of posts running down the middle of the interior. Dual symmetry is also reflected in the two aisles that pass between the slatted benches and in back doors that mirror the front ones. The reason for the dualism is simple; the men and women in the congregation sat on opposite sides of the building. African American attendees sat near the back of the sanctuary. Association meetings were held at the church, spanning several days. Dinners were served outdoors, and visitors were lodged with nearby families.

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Our Mission

The mission of Yopp’s Cemetery Restoration is to unite our community in preserving an important part of our shared history. Together we work to restore the historic church and cemetery, honor the individuals and veterans buried here, and create a substantial future for the site. We aim to ensure that Yopp’s Cemetery remains a place our community can take pride in- today and for many years to come. Through responsible stewardship, historical preservation, and long-term planning, ensuring the property’s financial sustainability and continued recognition as an important cultural and historic landmark.

Our Vision

Yopp’s Meeting House is currently owned by “Friends of Yopp’s Meeting House Foundation” which was organized in 1999. Our organization is involved in restoring, preserving and maintaining the house and cemetery. Please email or DM us if you have any stories or memories you want to share about the property.

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Meet Our Board Members

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Terry Kramer, President

715-808-4157
[email protected]

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Deborah McKnight, Vice President

910-330-3877
[email protected]

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Taren Carranza, V.P. #2

315-262-4399
[email protected]

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Michael Midgett, V.P. #3

910-389-3749
[email protected]

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Lindsay Schottel, Secretary

910-968-5846
[email protected]

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Linda Swaney, Treasurer

910-262-7138
[email protected]

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Matthew Salmons, Sgt in Arms

910-320-3922
[email protected]

Help Preserve Yopp's Meeting House