With the first pioneer settlers arriving in the heavily forested areas known today as Washington County, PA, they brought with them their religious faith, beliefs and worship. Early in those days, one to a few families worshipped in one or another's log cabin or at spots in nature (such as at an old tree). Often the outdoor spots marked the place where these people envisioned building a church in the future.
With a heavy influx of Germans, Scots-Irish, English, and German Baptists, the earliest primary denominations were Amish, Mennonites, Presbyterians, German Baptists (a.k.a. Dunkards), and other faiths who focused on a "personal relationship to Jesus Christ."
By 1800, most major denominations had churches built with congregations extending throughout the county. It was common for people to travel long distances by wagon (for families) and horseback (men and single men). By the 1850s and 1860s, many churches had already built one or more additional church buildings to accommodate members living in different areas.
As a generalization, wherever a town was established, there were churches.
From these earliest beginnings, over 70 separate denominations, offshoots, and reorganized churches developed in Washington County PA from the mid-1700s until today.
While the list below is missing some denominations, it gives a start for researchers looking for church addresses and phone numbers. This site will also include newspaper articles, information about church and pastors. If you cannot find what you need, it is simply because I don't have articles/information *yet* on a specific church. Please check back often.
Hint: Google and Pico seem to find search words easier --
NOTE: Search boxes will not be activated until September 2007.
Pages under construction.
