Oldest Church in Illinois is Over 300-Years Old
The Holy Family Church in Cahokia, Illinois is 312-years old and the oldest continuously operating parish in the United States.
Originally built in 1699, the log church has so much history to it. The original church was built in 1699 and by 1740 had burnt down due to a fire. The new log church (that still standing) has logs salvaged from the original church and used to build the new one. Some log experts say that the logs used could be as old as 1492 (that year sounds familiar to anyone?). According to the church's website, the timbers are 90% original, and there are no nails to hold the logs together.
Travelers and explorers Lewis and Clark are connected to this church in they would have seen this building during their expedition. The church is used for special events, weddings, and funerals and there is still a Latin Mass is celebrated every Sunday at 9:00 a.m. You can also tour the church and learn more about its history.
The courthouse in Cahokia is also a National Landmark to visit. Both the church and the courthouse are the last two remaining buildings of the same construction from here to Oregon.
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