Alabama is home to many historic churches that give us a glimpse into the past. One of these churches is Pine Torch Church. For information about this historic church, including why it’s a definite must-see, take a look below.
Pine Torch Church is a historic log church that's nestled within North Alabama's Bankhead National Forest in Lawrence County. It's one of the state's oldest churches still standing today, and it's also believed to be the Bankhead National Forest's oldest standing structure.
The church was originally constructed from hand-hewn logs, hand-hewn floor planks, and hand split wooden shingles. Its wooden roof was eventually replaced by tin, and due to theft, its original floors were replaced in 1940.
Many people have wondered exactly how Pine Torch Church received its name. The answer is quite simple. When the church began, blazing pine knots were used to light church services that occurred after dark. These pine knots were also set ablaze to help people find their way home following services.
Pine Torch Church is part of the North Alabama Hallelujah Trail. In addition to serving as a church, this one-room building also served as a school for the area.
The next time you're in the North Alabama region, specifically the Bankhead National Forest area, be sure to visit the historic Pine Torch Church. It's filled with such great history!
Have you ever seen North Alabama’s Pine Torch Church up close and in person? If so, what did you think about it? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.