The Old Salem Lutheran Church
Founded in 1760, Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lebanon is recognized as one of the oldest churches in Lebanon. Originally a log cabin when it was built in 1766, the church’s iconic Old Salem building was later built in the 1790s and from there the congregation continued to grow. In 2010, Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lebanon was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Old Salem: At the time that it was built in the 1790s, Old Salem was the largest structure between Harrisburg and Philadelphia. The church itself is a two-story, rectangular structure made of Limestone. Salem Lutheran is noted for keeping an extensive record of its members and pastor. One such notable pastor was Frederick Augustus Conrad Muhlenburg, who went on to become the first Speaker of the United States House of Representatives.
Salem Memorial Chapel: Built in 1898, Salem Memorial Chapel was a necessary addition to the church complex as the congregation grew in tandem with the town of Lebanon’s growth. Featuring Gothic style with Richardson Romanesque influences, “the Chapel,” as it is known to its parishioners, is home to Salem’s main sanctuary which serves as the site of their weekly services. The sanctuary boasts a skinner organ, vaulted roof, and numerous hand-carved features.
Richwine Fellowship Hall: The Richwine Fellowship Hall is the newest building among the Salem Lutheran Churches, being added in the late 1900s. With each church representing a different century in the history of Salem Lutheran’s congregation, the Fellowship Hall represents the 20th century and offers more modern amenities than it’s counterparts. As such, the Richwine Fellowship Hall often hosts church services during the summer as it is the only building amongst the three with air conditioning.
Categories: Explore, History & Heritage