Before it was the popular tourist attraction we know and love today, Cades Cove was a thriving settlement of an estimated 685 people. Religion was very important to them, and the churches they built served as places of worship, community, and education. These pillars of Cades Cove history still stand, and you can see them during your visit. Let us tell you more about one church in particular, Cades Cove Missionary Baptist Church:
History of Cades Cove Missionary Baptist Church
The congregation of the Missionary Baptist Church was formed in 1841. The members split from the original Cades Cove Baptist Church over a disagreement about the Bible’s interpretation of missionary work. There was no building to meet at, so Sunday Services were held in the settlers' homes. They were often far apart, and people would have to travel great distances. After 50 years, the congregation built its first church on Hyatt Hill. Membership rapidly grew, and the Missionary Baptist Church was constructed in 1915, where it still stands today.
Where is the Missionary Baptist Church in Cades Cove?
How do visitors see the Cades Cove Missionary Baptist Church today? It is a stop about halfway through the Cades Cove Loop. This is a popular 11-mile scenic route that is open year-round. You can explore it from the comfort of your own vehicle, or you can walk or ride your bike– great activities during the warmer months! In fact, the national park has Vehicle-Free Wednesdays on Cades Cove Loop Road during the summertime.
If you want to get an even closer look at the Missionary Baptist Church, go inside! It has wooden pews facing a preacher’s stand at the front. Imagine all the fun times that were had here and make your own memories! Another interesting thing about the Missionary Baptist Church today is that you can have a wedding ceremony there! It is a great place for a rustic-themed wedding as the light wood brings in great natural light for photos. The wedding party and guests can also take pictures outside in the stunning scenery!
More Historic Buildings On Cades Cove Loop Road
In addition to the Missionary Baptist Church, there are other historic buildings to look out for on the Cades Cove Loop, such as the John Oliver Cabin. It was built in the 1820s by its namesake and his wife. The cabin is the oldest human structure in the park. While the foundation doesn’t have any nails, it is held together by gravity and notched corners. John and Lucretia Oliver were some of the first settlers in Cades Cove, and they actually established the original Cades Cove Baptist Church. Their son, Elijah Oliver, was born in 1824. He grew up and built his own homestead nearby. While the John Oliver Cabin is the first stop in the Loop, you can see the Elijah Oliver place about 5 miles into the loop.
Now you know all about the Cades Cove Missionary Baptist Church! Want to take an alternative way out of Cades Cove? Turn onto the lane across from the Missionary Baptist Church– get all the details about driving on Rich Mountain Road!
