The Oldest Church In Kentucky Dates Back To The 1700s And You Need To See It
By Andrea Limke|Published December 24, 2018
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
You can step back in time and experience Kentucky’s history by visiting a number of historical landmarks throughout the state. Many structures have been preserved, and each has its own fascinating story. One such place in the Bourbon County city of Paris is the Cane Ridge Meeting House. Dating all the way back to the 1700s, it is considered by many to be the oldest church in Kentucky, has an incredible history, and is a place in our state that you really need to see.
Cane Ridge Meeting House is a log cabin church that was built in Bourbon County in 1791. Many regard it as the oldest church in our state, and thankfully it's been preserved so we can continue to experience it today.
Barton W. Stone famously began his ministry here and it has been the site of many historic events. Best known for a hugely populated revival in 1801, it's also known as the birthplace of the Christian Church, where all denominations are welcome.
After it was designated a place of significant historical importance, a secondary structure was built around the log structure in order to protect it from Mother Nature. The site now includes this larger building with the original church inside, as well as a cemetery where Barton W. Stone and others are buried.
The Cane Ridge Meeting House operates today as a place of worship and a museum. You can visit the historic log church and learn all about its fascinating past.
You are even able to walk inside the original structure, much of which looks exactly the way it did in the 18th and 19th centuries. Of course, it is very fragile and there are some newer additions, but it will definitely take you back to that point in Kentucky's history. The church still holds worship services today and all are welcome, as was intended from the day it opened its doors. Many say the space is incredibly sacred, given its history.
The museum portion of the Cane Ridge Meeting House is open seasonally, so it's best to call ahead to check availability in the winter months. You can learn more about visiting the church on its website (linked below).
The Cane Ridge Meeting House is one of many historic places in Kentucky that played a fascinating role in our state's past. And rather than wonder what it was like to sit in this place of worship in 1791, you can experience it for yourself, right here in Kentucky.
The Cane Ridge Meeting House has thankfully been preserved and this historic church stands as a sacred landmark and place of worship that everyone in Kentucky should see. Have you been to this centuries-old church? Share your experience with us in the comments!
The Cane Ridge Meeting House is located at 1655 Cane Ridge Rd., Paris, KY 40362. For more information, visit its website here.
And for another beautiful, historic church in Kentucky that’s definitely worth a visit, check out our previous article here.
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