Visitors may view the Oldest Church in Tennessee on Saturday, Sunday or Monday between the hours of 1:00PM and 4:00PM.
Sinking Creek Baptist Church is named for a tributary of the Watauga River. It is located on the Old Elizabethton to Johnson City Highway in Carter County. It is the oldest church of any faith in the state of Tennessee still in existence at its original location. It was organinzed 1772 in Washington County (now Carter County). Matthew Talbot was the first pastor. Worship services have continued through the years except during the Civil War from 1861 to 1865.
In 1778 evangelists Charles and John Chastain, brothers from Virginia, held a revival here and the need for a larger church was realized. Pastor Talbot, Joshua Kelly, and a Mr. Maulkey planned and erected what is now known as the "Old Log Church" that still stands today with many of its' original logs intact. Worship and an occasional wedding is held there mostly in the summer months. Because of its' legendary past it is now a historical landmark. It shares the same grounds with the new church built in 1962.
Pastor Reece Harris was called to Sinking Creek in 1961. Under his leadership for the past 47 years, we have experienced unprecedented growth, and we are still growing!
In 1985 the Family Life Center was built. It was named and dedicated "The Reece Harris Christian Life Center" in 2000. It houses a gymnasium, fellowship hll, kitchen and dining area. The upper level is fully employed with youth activities under the supervision of Youth Director Phillip Harris, participating in everything from Bible Study, College and Career planning to aerobics and weight lifting. Anyone may use the Center by making reservations.
We are still growing! And to facilitate our future expansion the following projects have been completed: In 1997 land was purchased adjuacent to the Family Life Center for parking space. In the same year stained glass windows were installed in the church sactuary. In 1999 a new Bus was bought, the same year a church Steeple was erected. In the year 2000 the property adjacent to the Old Log Church was purchased to allow for a Pavilion, which was erected in 2003. The Pavilion may also be used by anyone making reservation. Last but not least this website is another outreach with which we will serve both our members and those who the Lord may lead here.
We are mindful of our blessings! With heartfelt gratitude we salute those pioneers who carved from the wilderness this house of worship that was founded on faith in God, love for this wonderful country, and their hope for our future.
