300-Year-Old Illinois Church Known as Hidden Gem in the Nation

Dating back to the year 1699, this church holds the title of being one of the oldest continuously operating parishes in the United States.

The church (The Holy Family Church in Cahokia, Illinois) is over 300 years old and was 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.

Two of America's most renowned explorers - Lewis and Clark Lewis and Clark are connected to this church because 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 celebrated every Sunday at 9:00 a.m. You can also tour the church and learn more about its history.

Get our free mobile app

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. I love history, so to know that there are buildings still standing and still in use for over 300 years. You have to wonder if walls could talk what would they say?