North Carolina - A state with deep colonial roots, is home to numerous historic sites that offer glimpses into its early past. In Bath, the oldest incorporated town in North Carolina (1705), stands a particularly venerable structure: St. Thomas Episcopal Church. Constructed in 1734, this historic church is the oldest surviving church building in the entire state, a beautiful testament to early colonial faith and architecture.
North Carolina - A state with deep colonial roots, is home to numerous historic sites that offer glimpses into its early past. In Bath, the oldest incorporated town in North Carolina (1705), stands a particularly venerable structure: St. Thomas Episcopal Church. Constructed in 1734, this historic church is the oldest surviving church building in the entire state, a beautiful testament to early colonial faith and architecture. Colonial Foundations and a Library First: St. Thomas Episcopal Church
While The Church Building Dates To 1734
- Parish Established: The Anglican parish was established shortly after the founding of Bath County in 1696, reflecting the importance of organized religion in the early colony.
- Early Worship: Before the church was built, early parishioners gathered for worship in private homes.
- First Public Library: Around 1700, Rev. Thomas Bray, an English clergyman instrumental in founding libraries in the colonies, sent a collection of books to the parish. This act established the first public library in the colony of North Carolina, highlighting Bath's early role as a center for learning and faith.
Construction and Architecture (1734)
The enduring brick structure visitors see today was completed in 1734.
- Flemish Bond Brickwork: The church is noted for its Flemish Bond brick construction, a specific pattern of laying bricks standard in colonial architecture, showcasing the era's craftsmanship.
- Enduring Structure: Its survival for nearly three centuries makes it a remarkable example of early 18th-century construction in North Carolina.
Historical Significance and Recognition
St. Thomas Episcopal Church is recognized for its significant place in North Carolina history.
- Oldest Surviving Church Building: It is widely acknowledged as the oldest church building in the state.
- National Register of Historic Places: Its historical and architectural importance was formally recognized when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.
Visiting St. Thomas Today
Located on Craven Street in Bath, North Carolina, St. Thomas Episcopal Church remains an active place of worship. It is also open to visitors who wish to appreciate its history and architecture. Exploring the church and its grounds offers a tangible connection to North Carolina's colonial past and the lives of its earliest European settlers.
St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Bath is more than just an old building; it's a cornerstone of North Carolina's history. As the state's oldest surviving church structure, it provides invaluable insights into colonial architecture, early religious practices, and the enduring legacy of North Carolina's first town. Its connection to the colony's first public library further cements its importance, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich history of the Tar Heel State.
Sources:
- St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Bath, NC
- Historic Bath State Historic Site
- North Carolina Office of Archives and History
- National Register of Historic Places Documentation
- Historical accounts of colonial North Carolina
