Tornado Damages 19th Century Church In Caddo County

Associated Press

ANADARKO, OK -- A 19th-century church building is among the sites damaged by a tornado that touched down in Caddo County.

The EF-2 twister on Wednesday night knocked down the Wichita Community Church between Anadarko and Gracemont.

Pastor Damon Smith says the church's history dates to the late 1800s, when the building was used to minister and teach American Indians.

Smith and his father, Deacon George Smith, say the church has been in nearly continuous operation since it was built. They say the three dozen members of the American Baptist church plan to rebuild.

The church building was not insured. Church officials hope they can receive a portion of any government disaster relief aid that might flow into the county, but they know donations also will be needed.