Campground Church, Strawberry, AR

Hello, fellow Arkansans! In our beautiful state, we cherish places that hold deep roots, tell compelling stories, and offer a sense of continuity across generations. One such remarkable location is Campground Church, nestled in the serene community of Strawberry, AR. While its name might initially evoke images of tents and campfires, Campground Church is, in fact, a place of profound historical and spiritual significance, standing as a testament to early Arkansas faith and community.

Campground Church is more than just a building; it's a living piece of Arkansas history. Located at 720 Milligan Campground Rd, its story dates back to 1823, when it became the site of the very first Presbyterian Church in what was then the Missouri Territory, built by John Milligan. This makes it a foundational landmark in the religious heritage of our region, predating Arkansas's statehood. Imagine the pioneers, settlers, and early Arkansans gathering here for worship, building a community, and finding solace and strength in their faith.

The site also holds a unique place in Civil War history, having served as a headquarters for the Illinois 5th Cavalry during the "Skirmish of Smithville." This intertwining of spiritual devotion and historical events makes Campground Church a truly special place to visit and reflect. Over the centuries, the original church building's walls were even moved and re-purposed for the Lebanon Presbyterian Church in Lynn, Arkansas, further emphasizing the enduring legacy of this original site. The current church building at the Campground, constructed in 1946 from native sandstone by the local congregation, continues to serve as a place of worship and community gathering.

Visiting Campground Church offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and connect with the pioneers who shaped our state. It’s a chance to appreciate the resilience of faith and community in the face of historical challenges. For those interested in Arkansas history, religious studies, or simply seeking a peaceful place to reflect, Campground Church is a destination that offers both educational value and spiritual calm. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of Arkansas and its people, welcoming visitors to discover its rich past and present significance.

Location and Accessibility

Campground Church is situated at 720 Milligan Campground Rd, Strawberry, AR 72469, USA. This location places it in Sharp County, Arkansas, a region known for its rolling hills, agricultural landscapes, and small, close-knit communities.

Strawberry, AR, itself is a rural town, and while it offers a quiet escape, the church's address on Milligan Campground Rd suggests a dedicated and recognizable approach. For Arkansans traveling by car, the church is accessible via state highways that connect to the broader road network. While detailed directions beyond the address might be helpful for those unfamiliar with the area, it is generally found within the peaceful rural setting of Strawberry.

Given its historical significance and ongoing use as a place of worship, the site is maintained to allow for visitation. Its rural setting provides a serene backdrop, far from the hustle and bustle of larger cities, making the journey to Campground Church part of the reflective experience. For those coming from other parts of Arkansas, it represents a manageable drive to delve into a significant piece of local history and spiritual heritage. It’s important to note that while it is a historical site, it is also an active church, so visitors should be mindful of any ongoing services or events.

Services Offered

Campground Church primarily functions as a place of worship and historical preservation. While specific service details may vary, based on its nature as a church, the following services are generally offered or associated with the site:

Religious Services: As an active church (currently a Cumberland Presbyterian Church, stemming from its historical roots), regular worship services are held for its congregation and welcomed visitors. These typically include Sunday worship, and potentially mid-week prayer meetings or Bible studies.
Community Gatherings: Churches often serve as central points for community events, fellowship gatherings, and social activities for their members.
Pastoral Care: The church likely provides pastoral care, including sacraments, counseling, and support for its members during life events.
Historical Site Visits: The grounds and possibly the church building (during non-service hours or by arrangement) can be visited by those interested in its historical significance, particularly its role as the first Presbyterian Church in the Missouri Territory and its Civil War connections.
Cemetery Access: The site includes the Milligan Campground Cemetery, where many early settlers and members of the community are laid to rest. This cemetery is open for visitation and is part of the historical fabric of the location.
Educational Opportunities: For those interested in local history or religious heritage, the site offers an informal educational experience through its historical markers and the rich stories associated with it.

For precise service times and any specific community events, it is advisable to check local church directories or contact the church directly if contact information becomes available, as the provided details are limited to general location.

Features / Highlights

Historical Significance (First Presbyterian Church in Missouri Territory): This is perhaps the most significant highlight. The Milligan Campground was the site where the very first Presbyterian Church building in the Missouri Territory was constructed by John Milligan in 1823. This makes it a foundational site in the religious history of Arkansas and the broader region.
Civil War Historical Site: The campground also played a role in the Civil War, serving as a campsite and headquarters for the Illinois 5th Cavalry during the "Skirmish of Smithville." This dual historical significance adds layers to its story.
Milligan Campground Cemetery: An integral part of the site, this cemetery is the resting place for early settlers, including Hulda Milligan (the first person buried there), and various members of the community. Many original gravestones were made of native sandstone.
Current Sandstone Church Building (Built 1946): The existing church building, constructed in 1946 by the local congregation using native sandstone, continues the long tradition of worship on this historic ground.
Enduring Religious Community: Despite centuries of change, the site has continuously served as a center for a faithful congregation, showcasing the resilience and longevity of this spiritual community.
Peaceful Rural Setting: Located in Strawberry, AR, the church offers a serene and quiet atmosphere, ideal for reflection and escaping the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Architectural Heritage: The use of native sandstone in the current church building connects it directly to the local landscape and traditional building methods of the region.

Promotions or Special Offers

As Campground Church is primarily a place of worship and a historical site rather than a commercial campground, it does not typically offer "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional business sense. Its value lies in its historical significance, spiritual offerings, and community role.

However, for those interested in its heritage or visiting for spiritual purposes, the following might be considered "offers" in a non-commercial context:

Open Access for Historical Exploration: The site, including the cemetery, is generally accessible to the public for historical exploration and reflection during daylight hours.
Community Welcome: As an active church, visitors are typically welcome to attend worship services and experience the community's spiritual life.
Free Historical Insight: The rich history of the site, including its origins as the first Presbyterian Church in the Missouri Territory and its Civil War connections, is freely available for visitors to learn about through onsite markers or local historical resources.

Any specific events, tours, or open house dates related to its historical preservation would be announced through local historical societies, church bulletins, or community calendars rather than commercial promotions. It is always recommended to respect the property as an active place of worship and a historical site.

Contact Information

Based on the provided information, the direct contact information for "Campground Church" in Strawberry, AR is limited to its address. As a historical site and a local church, specific public phone numbers or websites might not be as readily available as for commercial entities.

Address: 720 Milligan Campground Rd, Strawberry, AR 72469, USA

For those wishing to learn more about current church activities, service times, or to arrange a historical visit, it would be advisable to:

Check local church directories for Strawberry, AR.
Search for "Milligan Campground Cumberland Presbyterian Church" or similar names, as historical records often link the site to this denomination. Some sources list "Trimble Campground Cumberland Presbyterian Church" at a slightly different, but nearby, address (702 Trimble Campground Rd, Dolph, AR 72528) with a phone number: (870) 297-8667. This may be related or the continuation of the historical lineage.
Inquire with local historical societies or the Strawberry, AR town office for information on local churches and historical sites.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For Arkansans, Campground Church in Strawberry is far more than just a dot on the map; it’s a profound connection to our state's foundational history and enduring spiritual legacy. Its suitability for locals lies in its unique ability to offer a tangible link to the past, a peaceful retreat for reflection, and a testament to the resilience of community.

Firstly, its historical significance as the site of the very first Presbyterian Church in the Missouri Territory in 1823 makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in Arkansas's origins. It’s a chance to walk on ground where pioneers gathered, where faith was forged, and where the early seeds of our state's social and religious fabric were sown. For local families and history enthusiasts, it provides an invaluable educational experience, bringing textbooks to life and fostering a deeper appreciation for our heritage.

Secondly, the quiet, rural setting of Strawberry offers a serene escape from the demands of modern life. Visiting Campground Church allows Arkansans to unplug, breathe in the fresh air, and find a sense of peace in the tranquil surroundings. The presence of the historic Milligan Campground Cemetery adds another layer of reflection, inviting contemplation on the lives of those who came before us and contributed to the development of this region.

Moreover, as an active church continuing a nearly two-century-old tradition, Campground Church embodies the steadfast spirit and community values that are so important in Arkansas. It reminds us of the strength found in faith and collective effort, as evidenced by the local congregation building the current sandstone church after WWII. This enduring legacy speaks to the heart of what it means to be an Arkansan – rooted in history, resilient in spirit, and connected through community.

In essence, Campground Church is not just a place to visit; it’s a piece of Arkansas’s soul. It's a reminder of where we've come from, a peaceful sanctuary in the present, and a symbol of the enduring heritage that continues to shape our identity. For any Arkansan seeking a deeper connection to their state's past, a moment of tranquility, or a glimpse into a resilient community, Campground Church in Strawberry offers a uniquely enriching experience right here at home.