Founded June 12, 1759, as North Carolina’s first planned Moravian settlement, the community of Bethania commemorates its 250 years with pride for its past and passion for its future

Positioned near the Great Wagon Road, the Moravian settlement of Bethania once served as an important stop for travelers needing provisions. Today, visitors can journey down Reynolda Road past town and take a turn onto Bethania Road to discover this quaint, quiet, and quite lovely area. Much has changed along Main Street in Bethania’s 250 years. Still, “Bethania has never ceased to exist,” explains Terry Ramsbotham, manager of the Historic Bethania Visitor Center. “It isn’t as well-known as Old Salem and Bethabara, but it’s a proud community and it has always kept on.”

Celebrate

In 1859, Bethania commemorated its centennial with a “100th Anniversary and Jubilee Celebration.” The festivities were documented in diaries, and when organizers began planning this year’s 250th, many of the elements of that first celebration were mirrored. On June 12th through 14th, the town of Historic Bethania invites the public to a weekend-long 250th Anniversary and Jubilee Celebration.

Friday, June 12th: 7–10 p.m.

Bring a blanket and enjoy an outdoor evening concert and wine and cheese reception at the Historic Bethania Visitor Center featuring Tin Can Alley and the King Moravian Choir and Moravian Band.

Saturday, June 13th: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Bethania will be abuzz on Saturday. In the Alpha Chapel, community members will tell stories of growing up in Bethania. At the Visitor Center, costumed craftsmen and artists will demonstrate 18th-century crafts and skills. Around town, wares will be for sale on the porches and lawns of historic homes, and A.M.E. Zion Church, Bethania Moravian Church, and Bethania Historical Association will be open. Meanwhile, 18th-century barbecue, beans, Johnny cakes, beer, hard cider, and other goods will be available for purchase at the food court.

Sunday, June 14th: 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.

A communion service and lovefeast at Bethania Moravian Church will mark the 250th anniversary of the congregation’s founding.

For more information, call 336-922-0434 or go to townofbethania.org.