Mars Hill (Iowa) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Mars Hill
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_exterior.jpg)
Historic photo of the church
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 Location in Iowa
Location in the United States
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| Location | Southeast of Ottumwa, Iowa |
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| Area | 1.5 acres (0.61 ha) |
| Built | 1850-1857 |
| Architectural style | Rustic |
| NRHP reference No. | 74000814 |
| Added to NRHP | September 13, 1974 |
Mars Hill is a historic church building and cemetery located near Ottumwa, Iowa, United States. This special place was built a long time ago, between 1850 and 1857. It is a significant landmark in Iowa's history.
Contents
Mars Hill: A Historic Iowa Landmark
Mars Hill is a very old church and cemetery. It is found near the city of Ottumwa, Iowa. A woman named Barbara Clark gave the land to the Baptist Church. The church building was then constructed between 1850 and 1857.
Building the Church
The church building is shaped like a rectangle. It is made from large logs that were carefully cut and shaped. These logs fit together using a special technique called a dovetail joint. The roof of the church is a gable roof, which means it has two sloping sides that meet at the top. The front door you see today is a copy of the original one.
People believe the church got its name from where it is located. However, this idea cannot be fully proven. There is also a local story that says the church was a stop on the Underground Railroad. The Underground Railroad was a secret network that helped enslaved people find freedom. Mars Hill was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. This means it is recognized as an important historical site.
A Story of Survival: The 2006 Fire
In 2006, a fire nearly destroyed the church building. An arsonist started the fire, causing a lot of damage. But the community did not give up on Mars Hill. People worked hard for two years to raise money and rebuild the church.
The church was officially opened again on June 8, 2008. Some of the original logs that were burned in the fire are still part of the building today. This shows the church's strength and history.
Mars Hill Today
Mars Hill is one of the largest log buildings still standing in Iowa. It is also one of the oldest log churches still in use. Today, it is an interdenominational church. This means it welcomes people from different Christian groups. A worship service is held there every year in June.
