Annual Gathering Celebrates Historic Ebenezer Church in Jessamine County

Jessamine County – The community of Jessamine County recently came together at the historic Ebenezer Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church for its Annual Picnic, held on the second Sunday of September. This year’s event drew friends and family to commemorate a tradition that has been alive for decades.

The church, organized by Reverend Adam Rankin around 1793, holds a significant place in the county’s history. Some historical accounts suggest its founding could date as far back as 1785, during a time when interactions with Native Americans were common in the area. This period predated Kentucky’s statehood, highlighting the church’s longstanding roots.

Significantly, Ephraim January and his wife Sarah donated one and a half acres of their Revolutionary War bounty land for just ten dollars to establish the church. Situated on a wooded area straddling the Jessamine-Woodford County border, the church’s property is easily accessible just off Keene-Troy Road.

The current stone structure, which was built in 1803, underwent restoration in 1953, preserving its historical value for future generations. Surrounding the church is an old cemetery, where many headstones are dated back to the 1700s, serving as a testament to the area’s long-standing history.

Visitors of the church and picnic can explore its rich heritage, which connects the past to the present through community gatherings and cultural events. For those interested in learning more about the church’s history, details can be found at the dedicated website.

The Annual Picnic not only serves as a social gathering but also as a remembrance of the church’s heritage and its role in fostering community spirit across generations.