Ridge Church
Guarding Sacred history
Some places hold more than memories – they carry the whispers of spiritual awakening, the footsteps of faithful pioneers, and the seeds of movements that changed lives across generations. In New Durham, a simple white church on a ridge represents such hallowed ground. As stewards of this extraordinary heritage site, we have the privilege and responsibility to ensure its voice continues to inspire, teach, and welcome. Your partnership makes this possible.
Preserving the Ridge Church
A quiet white church on a New Hampshire ridge has carried the story of a movement for more than two centuries. Built from 1818 to 1819 and started by Benjamin Randall, founder of the northern movement of Free Will Baptists, the Ridge Church still welcomes visitors who want to see, hear, and feel their heritage.
This is more than a building. It is a testimony worth preserving.
Why This Church Matters
The Ridge Church is intertwined with denominational and American history. A bell cast in Paul Revere’s forge once called worshipers to gather. The congregation turned the building to face a new direction, added chimneys, and replaced chandelier lamps with electricity as the world changed around it.
It is more than wood and paint. It is a living classroom of faith, perseverance, and mission.
A Turning Point in 2005
Concern about the building’s condition reached Master’s Men Director Ken Akers in 2005. A national committee formed, met with Pastor Jim Nason of the First Free Will Baptist Church, and visited the site to see needs firsthand.
That visit sparked a season of planning, prayer, and fundraising that would bring volunteers from across the country to the ridge.
Hands-on Renewal
Volunteers from Arkansas, Illinois, Ohio, and Tennessee spent two weeks on critical work. Interior structures were reinforced. Exterior shingles were removed and replaced. Over the following years, teams scraped flaking paint and repainted both the interior and exterior, including pews that had held generations of worshipers.
Beneath the surface, preservation continued. A weak foundation was secured. New boards replaced flooring cut away when gas furnaces were installed. Windows were re-glazed, and smaller projects restored safety and beauty.
These efforts did more than repair wood. They renewed dignity and extended the life of a landmark.
Safeguarding Ownership for Future Generations
As restoration advanced, leaders recognized the need to secure ownership. First Free Will Baptist Church voted to transfer the Ridge Church and the nearby cemetery, where the Randall family is buried, to North American Ministries. In December 2016, leaders signed documents that began the transfer.
That moment ensured that future Free Will Baptists could experience a vital link to their past.
Preserving Ridge Church
Work Still to be done
Preservation is not a one-time project. It is ongoing stewardship. Regular maintenance, seasonal upkeep, and periodic repairs are essential to protect two centuries of history.
- Preventative maintenance that keeps small issues from becoming major repairs
- Targeted structural reinforcement as conditions require
- Care for historic finishes including paint, flooring, windows, and fixtures
- Grounds and cemetery preservation to honor those who came before us
Each task helps the building tell its story with clarity and care.
Ridge Church Preservation
how you can help
Adopt
Adopt a project your church, small group, or organization can sponsor and complete
Donate
Donate to preservation with a one-time gift or recurring support
Volunteer
Volunteer a team for scheduled workdays and restoration projects