Rehoboth Church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Rehoboth Church
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Exterior of the church
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 Location in West Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Union, West Virginia |
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| Built | 1786 |
| Architect | Edward Keenan |
| NRHP reference No. | 74002016 |
| Added to NRHP | December 31, 1974 |
Rehoboth Church is a very old and special log cabin-style Methodist church. It is located in the countryside of Monroe County, West Virginia, United States. You can find it about 2 miles (3¼ km) east of the town of Union.
This church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974. It is famous for being the oldest church building still standing in West Virginia.
Contents
The Church's Beginning
Building a New Church
In late 1784, brave pioneers who had just arrived in the area decided to start a Methodist church. They worked together to build the church in 1785. The land for the church and its graveyard was given by Edward Keenan. He was a very important person in getting the church built.
A Special Dedication
The church building was officially opened in 1786. This special event was led by Francis Asbury. He was the very first Methodist bishop in the United States. After it was built, Rehoboth Church became a major center for Methodism. Bishop Asbury came back at least three more times in the next ten years. He held important church meetings, called Annual Conferences, right there at the church.
What the Church Looks Like
Log Cabin Style
Rehoboth Church is built in a simple, traditional style. It uses log framing, which was a common way for early settlers to build homes and other structures. The logs were cut from the forest and shaped to fit together.
Inside the Church
When you go inside, you will see a raised pulpit. This is a special platform where the preacher stands. It is made from smooth wood and is high enough so everyone in the church can see and hear.
The church has three sides lined with galleries. These are like balconies that offer extra seating. In the past, these upper areas were used for additional people attending services. A steep, fixed ladder in one corner helps people get up to these galleries. Large log pillars and small braces support the galleries. The ends of these logs are shaped like diamonds.
Besides the pulpit, the only other furniture in the church are the pews. These are simple benches made from logs cut in half. There are also wooden stands for lamps. The original altar from the church is still kept safe. Many believe Bishop Asbury used this very altar.
Keeping the Church Safe
Restoration Efforts
Because Rehoboth Church was built simply from logs, it started to wear down over many years. People began working to fix it up in 1927. The entire building was repaired. By 1930, even more work had been done. A strong shelter was built over the church. The original roof was left in place, but a large tin roof was put over the whole structure to protect it.
A National Treasure
The church has been recognized as a National Methodist Shrine. This means it is a very important place in Methodist history. It is the most western church in its region built before the Constitution was put into action. It is also the only such church in West Virginia.
By the early 1960s, the building was still in good shape. It was even used sometimes for church services. Rehoboth Church was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 31, 1974. Today, there is a small museum near the church where visitors can learn more about its history.
See also
- List of the oldest churches in the United States
- List of the oldest buildings in West Virginia
