Cades Cove Primitive Baptist Church

Before the Baptist Church was established in Cades Cove in 1827, local residents were forced to travel through the Smoky Mountains to attend services in Wears Cove. They were also known to travel to Tuckaleechee Cove, now Townsend, to attended campground revivals.

Trouble in the Ranks

As is often the case, conflicts developed over biblical interpretation among parishioners. Some said the scripture advocated for missionary work and other church members said it did not. This resulted in the Cades Cove Baptists renaming their church so that it was clearly distinguishable from Baptists who did not share their beliefs. The Primitive Baptist Church was ultimately named in 1841. The white clad church you see today wasn’t built until 1887. The congregation met in a log structure until the time of church construction.

How to get to the Primitive Baptist Church

When traveling the Cades Cove Loop Road, the Primitive Baptist Church is the first church you’ll see. To reach the church, turn left on the road just after the John Oliver Cabin.