Restoring a dying landmark, one nail at a time…

Thank you for visiting this page. We are Bill and Tammy Linn and we purchased the old Methodist church in Cumberland Gap in early 2021. We had been on a cross country road trip when we found the empty church building and house for sale. We ended our trip and began the rebuilding project of a lifetime.

The restoration of The Olde Church officially began in April 2021 with a crazy vision, a great deal of determination, and a belief in what this historic building could become.

Before any restoration work could even begin, the structure had to be stabilized and carefully cabled to preserve its integrity. From there, we rebuilt the church one section at a time. Many people doubted the project could be completed, but we saw something special in this building from the very beginning. We knew the bones were remarkable, and we were committed to bringing it back to life.

Interior of a building under renovation with exposed ceiling and framing, ladders, construction tools, and large windows allowing natural light.
An talented woman with gray hair and glasses working on a woodworking project at a table near a glass door, with tools and supplies scattered around.

Over the course of 11 months, we poured ourselves into every detail of the restoration. From the windows and floor structure to the walls, electrical systems, and roof, nearly every part of the building was repaired, restored, or completely rebuilt.

What once stood as a deteriorating and forgotten structure has now been transformed into the beautiful space it is today — a place filled with warmth, history, and new memories being made every day.

Even now, the work never truly ends. Historic buildings always have a story still being written, and we continue to care for and improve The Olde Church with the same passion that started the restoration in 2021. Upon finishing the church, we built our outdoor gardens and commerical kitchen.

Interior of a building under renovation with exposed flooring, insulation, and wood framing, appearing to be a doorway area.

Part 2: The Parsonage renovation, a year later…

The restoration of the Parsonage began in 2022 and quickly became a labor of love. We often joked that it felt like restoring eight little churches instead of one home. Around every corner, a new challenge awaited us — from plumbing and structural repairs to electrical work and extensive termite damage.

Despite the obstacles, we remained focused on our vision: creating a beautiful and welcoming space where brides, families, and guests could relax, gather, and prepare for some of life’s most meaningful moments.

As we restored the home, we worked carefully to honor its history and character. We thoughtfully selected furnishings and décor inspired by the 1920s through the 1950s, creating a timeless atmosphere that feels both elegant and deeply comfortable.

Today, each room in the Parsonage has been meticulously designed to feel warm, inviting, and truly like home. From quiet mornings with coffee to the excitement of wedding day preparations, the space was created to be experienced and enjoyed.

We are proud that guests have embraced the Parsonage exactly as we hoped they would, earning consistent five-star reviews on Airbnb for its charm, comfort, and attention to detail.

First image shows a room under renovation with a worker using a wheelbarrow and tools, exposing a dirt floor. Second image depicts a finished, decorated living room with white paneled walls, a chandelier, blue furniture, framed pictures, and a colorful rug.
First image shows a room under renovation with a worker using a wheelbarrow and tools, exposing a dirt floor. Second image depicts a finished, decorated living room with white paneled walls, a chandelier, blue furniture, framed pictures, and a colorful rug.
Attic undergoing renovation with exposed wooden floor joists, insulation, and drywall walls. A small window at the far end of the space.

About the Methodist Church in Cumberland Gap

Watercolor painting of a white church with tall arched windows, a bell tower, surrounded by trees with autumn foliage, and people dressed in vintage clothing walking outside.

Built in 1890, the Methodist Church is currently the second oldest standing building in town. The Methodist owned the church until 1967 when it was sold off.

From the late 1960’s until the Linn’s bought it, the property was held by a private family.

Get in Touch

There are three ways to reach us:

1) Fill out and submit the form here

2) Text us at 415-867-2100

3) Email us at oldechurch@gmail.com

A wedding ceremony inside a church with bride and groom kissing, surrounded by friends and family. Rose petals fall from above, and floral arrangements decorate the background.