WEST VIRGINIA - The Mountain State, possesses a rich history interwoven with the stories of early pioneers and the establishment of faith communities on the rugged frontier. Rehoboth Church, located in Monroe County, is a remarkable testament to this era. Built in 1785, this historic log cabin-style Methodist church is the oldest existing church building in West Virginia.
Rehoboth Church: West Virginia's Enduring Log Cabin Sanctuary, the State's Oldest Church
A Frontier Landmark Forged in Faith (1785-1786)
Constructed in 1785 by early settlers, the Rehoboth Church represents the determination and faith of the pioneers who carved out lives in the mountainous terrain. Its simple yet sturdy log cabin architecture speaks volumes about the resources and building techniques of the time.
- Dedication by Bishop Asbury: A pivotal moment in the church's history occurred in 1786 when it was dedicated by Francis Asbury, the first bishop of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States. Asbury, a tireless circuit rider who traveled extensively to spread Methodism, recognized the importance of this outpost.
- Center for Early Methodism: Rehoboth Church quickly became a center for the growing Methodist movement in the region. Bishop Asbury returned thrice over the next decade to lead Annual Conferences at the church, underscoring its significance in early American Methodism.
Historical and Architectural Significance
Rehoboth Church is recognized not only for its age but also for its unique historical context and preservation.
- Pre-Constitution Survivor: It is the most westerly church building remaining in its region of the United States, which was constructed before the U.S. Constitution was implemented.
- National Methodist Shrine & Heritage Landmark: Its importance to the denomination is recognized through its designations as a National Methodist Shrine and a United Methodist Heritage Landmark.
Distinguishing Building from Congregation
It's important to note the distinction between the oldest existing building and the oldest congregation. While Rehoboth Church is the oldest building still standing:
- Morgan Chapel (Christ Episcopal Church): Located in Bunker Hill, Berkeley County, this Episcopal congregation was founded earlier, in 1741, making it the oldest Episcopal church community in West Virginia.
- Simpson Creek Baptist Church: Founded in 1770 in Harrison County, this is considered one of the earliest Baptist church congregations established west of the mountains.
However, the physical structures associated with the founding dates of these other congregations likely no longer exist, leaving Rehoboth Church as the oldest surviving church building in the state.
Rehoboth Church in Monroe County is priceless in West Virginia's history. As the state's oldest existing church building, this humble log cabin structure connects us directly to the faith, resilience, and craftsmanship of the late 18th-century frontier. Its association with Bishop Francis Asbury and its unique pre-Constitution status make it a nationally significant landmark, particularly within the Methodist tradition. A visit to Rehoboth Church offers a tangible link to the very foundations of the religious community in the Mountain State.
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Sources:
- Rehoboth Church & Museum Website
- General Commission on Archives and History, The United Methodist Church
- West Virginia Division of Culture and History
- Monroe County Historical Society
- West Virginia Encyclopedia
