 Old
Salem Church is, today, semi- shielded from the hustle and bustle of Route
3 traffic. In 1844, however, when it was built no one had any idea that
it was destined to become an important part of the Battle of Chancellorsville.
Built to serve growth, the
church represents the people who brought life to the church – strong and
functional. When you visit you will see nothing frivolous.
What you will see is a strong church that has seen many saddening and joyous
times.
In May 1863, Salem Church
became part of the Chancellorsville Battle. Confederate sharpshooters
were hidden in the northern upper gallery to protect against the Federal
attack. Federal troops came from the ridge area and were met by fire.
Numerous soldiers were killed and wounded during this part of the battle.
After the battle the church
served as a hospital. There were so many wounded that the floors
were stained with blood and many years later replaced. Perhaps they
should have left it there as a reminder of what our ancestors endured.
It’s said that when General
Sherman, with his army, went by they could still see the stacked dead bodies
even though the war was over. Once this was reported to the authorities
in Washington DC, the wheels were put into motion to establish the Fredericksburg
National Cemetery.
As things were cleaned up
it was discovered that the church was empty and in disrepair.
The pews were now large matchsticks and the interior needed some tender
loving care. Slowly it was restored and used for services until the
1950’s when the New Salem Church was built. The congregation of the
New Salem Church voted to give the old church to the people in 1961.
The church is open on summer
weekend afternoons. Church volunteers will tell you the history of
the church. The church is also open for a Christmas service in December.
While there be sure to look
for the damage that has been left to remind us of the past. You’ll
find ‘pockmarks’ and some other minor damage. See you in July for the next "Off The Beaten Path".
The National Parks Service
has a pretty good website about the Old Salem Church at http://www.nps.gov/frsp/sc.htm
Directions
Take I-95 Exit 130 to Plank Road (towards Wilderness and Chancellorsville). Follow Plank Road 1.5 miles to Salem Church Road. Turn left onto Salem Church Road. At first stoplight (General Semmes Road) turn left (towards fire station). General Semmes Road ends at Old Salem Church Road, turn right onto Old Salem Church Road, The Church is on the left.
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