Cades Cove Primitive Baptist Church

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The Cades Cove Primitive Baptist Church is an important historical and spiritual site that reflects the strong faith and determination of the early settlers in this remote Appalachian valley. The church began as a gathering place in the homes of local families before a proper building was completed in 1832. This first log meeting house served as both a place for worship and a venue for community events, becoming the heart of the valley for its residents

In 1839, a disagreement over the church’s approach to foreign missionary work led to a split, with thirteen members leaving to create the Missionary Baptist Church. The remaining members chose to identify as the Primitive Baptist Church in 1841, focusing on returning to the traditional practices of early Christianity.

The current church building was constructed in 1887, replacing the original log structure. This white frame building was built entirely by the congregation members themselves, using green lumber that was still leaching sap during construction. One of the most remarkable features of the church is that the fingerprints and handprints of those who built it, including adults and children, are still visible on the ceiling, preserved for over a century.

Throughout the years, the church was central to the spiritual life of Cades Cove. During the Civil War, however, the church had to stop services due to the conflicts in the area, as reflected in their records: “we was union people and the Rebels was too strong here in Cades Cove.”

Despite the challenges of the Civil War, the church remained the main religious center in the valley until the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established in 1934. The Primitive Baptist congregation continued to meet there until the 1960s, keeping their faith and community alive even after the park was created. Even after officially closing, they looked after both the church building and the cemetery until the 1970s.

The cemetery next to the church is the oldest in Cades Cove and is still used today. It contains gravestones of descendants from the original settlers, with some marking dating back to the early 1800s. This quiet space holds the history of the families who lived in Cades Cove, with many simple grave markers telling the stories of the hardships they faced in the Smoky Mountains.

Know Before You Go

Cades Cove is an 11 mile, one-way loop road. After entry, you will pass the first dirt road to your left called Sparks Lane. The next dirt road to your left is the road to the church. Look for signs as well. Visitors can park near the church and walk a short distance along a path to reach it. The area around the church is relatively easy to navigate, but the path may be uneven in some places, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

The Cades Cove area is a hotspot for wildlife sightings, including black bears and deer. Be mindful of your surroundings as you explore the church and the loop.

The Cades Cove Loop can get crowded during peak seasons (spring, summer, and fall). Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays can provide a more peaceful experience, allowing you to explore the church and surrounding areas without the crowds.