Old Bethany Church

Old Bethany Church is a church building in Bethany, West Virginia, constructed with fieldstone and sandstone foundations and featuring a straightforward design typical of a meeting house style. The structure follows a rectangular layout with a two-bay by five-bay arrangement, creating a functional and enduring appearance.

The building was constructed in 1852 as the second church structure on this site, indicating a long religious presence in the area. Its designation on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 confirmed its importance as a historical monument for the region.

The church holds deep roots in the Disciples of Christ tradition, a religious movement shaped by Alexander Campbell that took hold in this region. Visitors can sense this heritage in how the community uses the space and in the way the building reflects this particular faith tradition.

The building sits at the intersection of Main and Church Streets on a property with generous grounds, making it easy to locate and approach. The central position within town means visitors can easily walk to this site while exploring the local area.

The structure ranks among the earliest examples of religious architecture in Brooke County and reflects a pioneering period of church building in the region. This early date and the carefully selected building materials make it a notable example of 19th century construction practices.

Location: West Virginia

GPS coordinates: 40.20640,-80.55420

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:44