As early as 1894, members of the Christian Church, Disciples of Christ recognized the benefit and need for a place where churches, families and individuals could retreat for relaxation, worship, study and fellowship.  In the years that followed, the area now known as Bethany Beach was identified as the ideal location.  Starting in 1901, the church began holding meetings and various events on the property.  In the century that followed, the church developed the property from the original tabernacle (image left) to the modern facility of today.   The name "Bethany" was selected for the Town as significant to Christians world-wide.  The main street in Bethany Beach is still named for President Garfield who was a member of the Christian Church, DOC.