Ever wondered how a blacksmith shop transformed into a cherished church? That’s the story of the Church of Our Saviour Oatlands. It stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and community spirit. Today, we’re standing before a place with a rich past and a promising future.
The story of the Church of Our Saviour Oatlands began during the Civil War. Local residents couldn’t travel far. Their horses were taken by armies. They gathered for worship in the Oatlands Plantation blacksmith shop. After the war, the Carter family helped build a dedicated church building. It was consecrated on August 21, 1878.
In those early days, the church was simple. It was just a rectangle with a pitched roof. Interestingly, there was no cross on the bell tower. People thought it might seem too “pope-ish.” It was feared that the bishop might not consecrate the church. But the builders did include a cross made of bricks over the front door.
The Church of Our Saviour Oatlands faced hard times in the late 1800s. The Carter family sold Oatlands. But a new era dawned in 1903. William Corcoran Eustis bought Oatlands Plantation. The Eustis family became major supporters of the church. They funded repairs and added a chancel with a stained glass window. They also added a balcony. Edith Eustis built a parish hall in 1915. It became a hub for community events.
Throughout its history, the Church of Our Saviour Oatlands has relied on many people. Youngsters chopped wood. They laid fires in iron stoves to heat the church. Others cleaned the church. Two young men even hand-pumped the organ for the organist.
In the mid-20th century, theological differences caused conflict. But the church persevered. By the late 1960s, only eight people regularly attended. David and Margaret Eustis Finley stepped in. They provided funds for a new roof. They renovated the parish hall. They donated a new organ.
In 1972, the Church of Our Saviour Oatlands gained independence. It could now pay its own clergy. The congregation chose to use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer. In 1977, Elijah White became the rector. He led the church for 35 years. He oversaw restorations and added Sunday school. He also introduced the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.
In 2007, the Church of Our Saviour Oatlands left the Episcopal Church. After a legal battle, the congregation moved to a new location. In 2016, a new church building was consecrated. It was 138 years after the original church’s dedication. The new church is located on 26 acres north of Oatlands Plantation. It reflects the design of the historic church. The church affiliated with the Reformed Episcopal Church.
Today, the Church of Our Saviour Oatlands stands strong. It continues to welcome all. It remains committed to traditional Anglican worship. The Church of Our Saviour Oatlands has a story of humble beginnings, resilience, and unwavering faith. It’s a story that continues to evolve. The church remains steadfast in its commitment to Scriptural worship.