About Us

 In 1792, in the small town of Ellenboro, North Carolina, Jeremiah Blanton, a young man with a vision, set out to create something that would impact his community for centuries. What was first thought to be a simple barn raising turned into a monumental surprise for his neighbors when they realized that Jeremiah had built not just a barn, but Oak Grove Church. This unassuming log structure would become the heart of a faith community that still thrives over 230 years later.

Jeremiah Blanton was born in 1774 to William Blanton and Sarah Womack. His father, William, had served as a Revolutionary War soldier and even acted as a bodyguard to General George Washington. At just 18 years old, Jeremiah made the profound decision to build a church, recognizing the need for a place of worship in the growing community of Ellenboro. Prior to the construction of Oak Grove Church, Jeremiah’s home had served as a stopping place for circuit riders—traveling preachers who spread the gospel throughout rural areas. His commitment to the spiritual welfare of his neighbors was evident even before the church’s foundations were laid.

The original log structure of Oak Grove Church stood as a testament to Jeremiah’s faith and the dedication of the community. For nearly a century, it served as the gathering place for worship and fellowship. However, as time passed, the needs of the congregation grew. In 1885, a new, larger church building was constructed. This second church was a quaint white structure that reflected the simplicity and humility of its congregation. Uniquely, the church was built with two separate doorways—one for men and one for women, a common practice in some churches during that era. Inside, two potbelly stoves provided much-needed warmth during the cold winter months, while the faithful gathered to worship, divided by gender yet united in spirit.

As the years went on, Oak Grove Church continued to grow, and by 1949, the congregation was ready for yet another expansion. The third and current church building was much larger than its predecessors, designed to accommodate a growing membership and the evolving needs of the community. The new building featured classrooms, a pastor’s study, a chapel, and a larger sanctuary. This expansion allowed the church to continue its mission of service and faith, nurturing future generations of believers.

Today, Oak Grove Church stands as a symbol of faith, resilience, and community. With roots that stretch back over two centuries, the church remains a vital part of Ellenboro’s history and identity. Many of its current members are descendants of Jeremiah Blanton and other founding families, carrying on the legacy of those who built and sustained the church through the years. For over 230 years, Oak Grove Church has been more than just a building—it has been a spiritual home, a gathering place for generations, and a beacon of hope for the community.

The history of Oak Grove Church is a story of dedication, faith, and the power of community. From its humble beginnings as a log structure built by an 18-year-old visionary to the modern church it is today, Oak Grove stands as a lasting testament to the values of its founders and the enduring faith of its congregation. The church’s deep roots in the community of Ellenboro ensure that its legacy will continue for generations to come.