New Salem Baptist Church listed on National Register of Historic Places

TAMS, WV (WVNS) – Nestled between an old train track and Alderson Branch, New Salem Baptist Church is a relic of West Virginia’s coal mining past.

Now this relic has just been listed to the National Register of Historic Places.

Friend of New Salem Baptist Church Sherrie Hunter said the news came as a shock to everyone.

I was in shock. I got the email a month ago and I had to keep it a secret because it’s a national announcement from the national trust. And I’m going ‘oh my gosh’, I need to let people know. I need to let people know to be here.

Sherrie Hunter, Friend of New Salem Baptist Church

On the day of the unveiling, people came out in droves. People then made it into the church for speeches and a rendition of Amazing Grace.

One of the people taking in the sights and sounds was Elizabeth Wiley Schoolfield, one of the last living members of the church.

She joined the church when she was 9 years old. Today, she is now 87 years old. She said she could not be happier with the turnout.

It makes me so excited. I just took my eyes on everyone that’s here and I thank God for everyone that came. Everybody, from the pulpit to the door, and now from the door outside. Everybody!

Elizabeth Wiley Schoolfield, member of New Salem Baptist Church

The scene was one of remembrance and honoring those who came before. Visitors and officials, including Renee Khulman, couldn’t fight back the tears.

Officials now hope the church stands the test of time for future generations to come.

It’s very important to save places like this because it’s important to people like me. People in West Virginia deserve to be proud of their history. I think preserving the remnants that are left that show where we came from are really important

Renee Khulman, Official with National Trust For Historic Preservation

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