In 1775, while the church was being built, a heavy beam fell and crushed Capt. Jonathan Hager, the founder of Hagerstown. The metal plaque tells us he was "Buried west of main building."
Nearby is a sign entitled "Retreat from Gettysburg."
Nearby is a sign entitled "Retreat from Gettysburg."
"Zion Reformed Church was a stronghold for the Confederates on their retreat from Gettysburg on July 6, 1863. General Robert E. Lee passed through Hagerstown during the Confederate occupation following the Battle of Gettysburg. General George Armstrong Custer observed Confederate movements from the church's bell tower on July 12th, after his Michigan cavalry brigade forced the occupying Confederates to the western edge of town. A Confederate sniper fired at Custer in the bell tower, but missed him and hit one of the tower's bells."
This is the oldest church building in Washington County, Maryland that has been in continuous use as a church.
...1775 would be quite early for my area.
ReplyDeleteA lovely church and lots of history
ReplyDeleteA beautiful church. The Reformed church has been in the New World for a long time.
ReplyDeleteInteresting. Thanks for sharing that little church... I had to read your post to my hubby since he LOVES Robert E. Lee....
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Betsy
Sad beginning but what a gorgeous church!
ReplyDeleteIt's a little odd to read this on MLK Day, but it IS important to remember history -- the good and bad parts of it.
ReplyDeleteIt is a lovely Church.
ReplyDeleteAll the best Jan
Beautiful church. I like that last shot.
ReplyDelete