Raleigh County church named to ‘America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places’ by National Trust for Historic Preservation

TAMS, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Community members gathered on Wednesday to celebrate the historic New Salem Baptist Church, a fixture of the unincorporated community of Tams for over one hundred years.

First constructed in 1921, the church’s rich history and striking Gothic Revival architecture are perhaps more significant today than ever.

Many community members and local leaders have had a hand in the renewed interest and renovation of the building over the past thirteen years, including Beckley City Councilwoman-At-Large and self-proclaimed friend of New Salem Baptist Church, Sherrie Hunter.

“We started the process in 2013,” said Hunter on Wednesday, detailing how the project would gain momentum over time, eventually leading to national recognition for the site. “Once it made the listing of the historic register, it just started snowballing.”

Director of Outreach and Support with the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Renee Kuhlma was on hand for the event, announcing the listing of the church as one of “Americas 11 Most Endangered Historic Places” list.

Alex Hewitt of the Offices of US Senator Joe Manchin was also on-hand for the event, delivering remarks from the senator with regard to the significant milestone.

“The people of our great state are hardworking, loyal patriots who take great pride in keeping the culture and values that define us alive,” said Hewitt on the senator’s behalf. “We are a proud state with a proud history, and no one can ever take that away from us.”

Perhaps the most significant face in attendance for Wednesday’s event, was an individual who has attended a great many proceedings at New Salem Baptist Church. 87-year-old Queenie Schoolfield is the oldest living member of the church, having begun attending at just nine years old.

While several renovations have already been made, New Salem Baptist Church has been the unfortunate subject of multiple break-ins and instances of vandalism over the years, adding to the list of repairs necessary to fully restore the place of worship.

The community is adamant, however, that the restoration of the building is not only possible, but vital to the preservation of an invaluable part of the vast history of Southern West Virginia.