Shiloh Old Site celebrated its inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places with a series of festive events on Sunday, April 10, 2016.

There were dramatized "voices" from the past at both morning worship services, as well as a masterful sermon by Pastor Aaron Dobynes on the importance of "remembering."

[ To view the text for the "Clouds of Witnesses" history program —
and to see additional photos — click here ]

At 1 p.m. there was an outdoor celebration of the new marker that recognizes the church's historic status.

Many friends of the congregation, history resource people, area clergy, and local dignitaries attended, including costumed representatives of the 23rd Regiment of the U.S. Colored Troops, a group that was first organized during the Civil War.

After the outdoor celebration, there was a reception with light refreshments inside.

Shiloh Old Site is proud of its impact on Fredericksburg, beginning with its emergence as an independent congregation in 1854. Like a Phoenix on the Rappahannock, the people who have worshiped, served, and learned here have endured. Despite the degradation of slavery, we remained steadfast. Amid long decades of social intolerance and injustice, including racial prejudice and segregation, Shiloh Old Site continued as a hallmark of social dignity and spiritual strength. From its hallowed walls and dedicated leaders and members have come outstanding pastors and missionaries, city officials, community activists, a United States ambassador, and outstanding professionals in numerous fields and diverse ministries, as well as countless volunteers who have tirelessly served this community with conviction and hope.

Although these festivities unfortunately received no coverage in the local news media,Shiloh Old Site is grateful for the support of so many within the community who joined us for this celebration of our history and our building's designation as a national historic landmark.