Editor's Note: The Morehead Minute has no affiliation with the seller, listing agent, or brokerage. We simply believe this historic Bath County landmark deserves to be preserved if at all possible.
For nearly 140 years, Salt Lick Christian Church has stood as both a place of worship and a landmark in the Bath County community. Generations have walked through its doors for Sunday services, weddings, funerals, revivals, and homecomings, making it one of the area's enduring pieces of local history.
Today, that historic building is looking for a new steward.
According to historical records, the congregation traces its beginnings to June 11, 1887, when it was organized as the Church of Christ of Bath County. In its earliest days, members met in a small schoolhouse located near the present church site.
The young congregation was led by its first elders, Morrison Nichols, J.M. Colliver and John Norris, while Isaac Shouse and E.W. Barrett served as the church's first deacons. Those early believers worshipped under humble circumstances, with modest offerings supporting both the ministry and plans for a permanent church home.
In 1890, land for the church was purchased from J.M. and Josephine Colliver. The deed dedicated the property specifically for the construction and continued use of a Christian Church, reflecting the congregation's determination to establish a permanent place of worship.
Construction of the building became a true community effort. Funding came through subscriptions, donations, and traditional fundraising events such as box suppers. Neighbors contributed materials as well, with lumber and other building supplies donated or purchased from businesses throughout the region.
The cornerstone was laid in 1892, and the church was officially dedicated on May 23, 1893.
Throughout the decades, Salt Lick Christian Church continued to grow with its congregation. Sunday School classrooms were added in 1949, followed by a basement addition dedicated in 1967. Local members continued raising funds and improving the property, ensuring the church remained an active center of community life.
Many ministers served the congregation over the years, each leaving their own mark on the church's long history while continuing the mission begun by its founders in the late nineteenth century.
In 1993, the congregation celebrated the church's 100th anniversary, marking a century since the dedication of the building. The milestone honored not only the structure itself but also the generations of faithful members who worshipped there and helped preserve its legacy.
A New Opportunity
Now, another chapter in the church's story is about to begin.
The historic Salt Lick Christian Church is currently being offered for sale with an asking price of $50,000.
For someone with a vision for preserving local history, the property presents a unique opportunity. Whether it continues as a place of worship, serves as a community gathering space, or is restored for another compatible purpose, the building remains an important part of Bath County's heritage.
Those interested in learning more about the property may contact Brad Frizzell at:
606-210-3131
606-683-5041
Asking Price: $50,000
As historic churches across rural Kentucky continue to disappear, Salt Lick Christian Church stands as a reminder of the faith, generosity, and community spirit that helped shape generations of Appalachian families. Its next owner will have the opportunity to preserve not just a building, but a piece of Bath County history.