Church of the Good Shepherd

The Church of the Good Shepherd is a Gothic Revival church building in North Carolina built on an elevated stone foundation with detailed stonework. The structure features five bays with a steeply pitched gabled roof that dominates the front elevation.

The building was constructed in 1880 to serve Irish and Italian miners who had settled in the area. This period marked a time of significant immigration to the region as coal mining operations expanded.

The building reflects the heritage of Irish and Italian immigrant communities who came to work in the mines. A Celtic cross made from soil brought from County Kerry sits on the grounds as a memorial to these origins.

The building sits on approximately one acre of land and holds regular worship services throughout the week. Visitors who wish to explore the interior can arrange a tour through the administrative office.

The building was designed by architects John Canterbury and Andy Thompson, who incorporated distinctive Gothic Revival details typical of late 1800s church design. These architectural choices remain visible today in the way the structure captures the style preferences of that era.

Location: North Carolina

GPS coordinates: 35.09760,-83.08530

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:00