1690 Grace Episcopal Church

Category: Markers

Marker reads, Organized in 1831 by local laymen with aid of George P. Giddinge missionary, who became first rector, and Benjamin B. Smith, later first Bishop of KY. and Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church. First church was built circa 1850 on Virginia Street On October. 10, 1875, Jefferson Davis, an Episcopalian and native of Christian County, worshiped there. Back of Marker-Grace Episcopal Church - Present church built 1883-84. Liberal contributor was John C. Latham, Jr. Under rectors John W. Venable, 1883-1894, and George C. Abbitt, 1902-29, church became center for social and cultural community activities. Parish house, a memorial to Emma Glass Gaither, built 1906. Tower destroyed in 1978 by tornado, restored in 1979. Presented by Grace Episcopal Church.