Wednesday, May 31, 2006

Rincon's most historic church

The oldest public building in Georgia is also the oldest Lutheran church in North American: Jerusalem Lutheran Church just north of Rincon in the Ebenezer Community. Persecuted for their faith in their home in Salzburg, Austria, these Lutherans sought religious freedom in Georgia in 1734, one year after Savannah was founded. In 1767 they began building the historic church in which they still worship to this day. There is also a "Salzburger" museum nearby that is open for tours at certain times. (Note to newcomers: local people with last names like Gnann, Rahn, Zittrouer and Arnsdorff who tell you they are "Salzburgers" are letting you know that their ancestors came to America from Salzburg, Austria with these early Lutheran settlers.)
It is easy to find the church. Take Highway 21 about 3 miles north of Rincon, and then turn right on Highway 275, better known by locals as Ebenezer Road. Go about 5 or 6 miles. You will pass the Ebenezer Elementary and Middle School, but you still have several miles to go. The road basically dead ends at Jerusalem Lutheran Church. Bring your boat, and you can put in the Savannah River at the boat launch near the church.

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