The town of Scenic was named for its picturesque setting.
In the 21st century, economic decline led local businesswoman Twila Merrill to acquire most of the town. In 2011, the 46-acre area was listed for sale at $799,000, including several buildings and a historic train depot.
That August, the property was purchased by the Philippine-based Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) church for nearly $800,000, though they did not disclose their reasons for the purchase.
By 2014, little development had occurred, but in 2015, an INC minister began leading services for a small local congregation.