Organized religion was brought to the pioneers during the early 1800s by traveling preachers. Before churches were built, services were held in one’s home or at revivals, which brought large crowds. The major denominations of the area include Presbyterian, Methodist, and Baptist. With the growth of Christianity in Tennessee, the church became a community gathering center for weekly services, meetings, and social activities.
This exhibit displays artifacts originating from local churches during the early twentieth century. A particularly significant item in the Museum’s collection is an organ made in Athens by Southern Organ Company in 1883. Other highlights from the exhibit include a 1915 pulpit from Eastanalle Baptist Church and a stained-glass triptych from Trinity United Methodist Church.