Heritage USA Map and Brochure (1986)
Location: Fort Mill, South Carolina
Years Active: 1978 – 1989
Heritage USA was an American Christian-themed water park, theme park and residential complex in Fort Mill, South Carolina, built by televangelist Jim Bakker and his wife Tammy Faye Bakker, founders of The PTL Club.
The park, which occupied 2,300 acres, was built by church builder Roe Messner. Since its closure in 1989, projects have been constructed on the land it once occupied, portions of which have been sold to several companies.
The former Heritage USA facilities in Fort Mill, South Carolina, which were purchased by MorningStar Fellowship Church in 2004, were renamed Heritage International Ministries (H.I.M.).
Heritage USA Map 1986
FAQ
Why did Heritage USA shut down?
Heritage USA shut down primarily due to the financial and legal troubles of its founder, televangelist Jim Bakker. His scandals, including fraud and sexual assault allegations, led to plummeting attendance and loss of public trust. Additionally, the IRS revoked the park’s tax-exempt status, and severe damage from Hurricane Hugo in 1989 further contributed to its closure and bankruptcy.
Who owns Heritage USA today?
Heritage USA is owned today by several groups, with the MorningStar Fellowship Church acquiring a significant portion of the property. They have transformed much of the site into Heritage International Ministries, reviving some of the religious activities originally found there. Additionally, parts of the property have been sold to local developers who are working on residential and commercial projects in the area.
What town was Heritage USA in?
Heritage USA was located in Fort Mill, South Carolina, just outside Charlotte, North Carolina. The site was developed in the late 1970s as a Christian-themed resort and amusement park. It quickly became one of the largest Christian entertainment complexes in the world before its downfall.
Does PTL still exist?
PTL, the ministry founded by televangelist Jim Bakker that operated Heritage USA, does not exist today in its original form. The organization collapsed after Bakker was involved in major legal scandals, including fraud and sexual misconduct. PTL’s collapse directly led to the closure of Heritage USA, and the ministry was dissolved in the late 1980s.
