Historical Marker

First Christian Church of Lancaster

Marker installed: 1979

(Disciples of Christ)

On July 5, 1846, Roderick Rawlins (1776 - 1848) and 13 settlers began this fellowship. They met in homes and a one-room log schoolhouse. For years ordained members and itinerant preachers led services. After disruptions of the Civil War, the membership reorganized in 1880. The first church house was built in 1887 at the corner of Main and Henry. It burned in 1918 with other structures on the Square and was replaced the next year. In 1957 this site was acquired; the building was erected in 1960. This is one of the oldest Christian congregations in continuous service in the state.