We all know about Old Salem and Historic Bethabara Park — but have you explored Bethania? Located 15-20 minutes outside of Winston-Salem, this historic town was the first planned Moravian community in North Carolina. To dig deeper into its history, Editor Kellina spent a day there, touring historic buildings and wandering through the scenic heritage trails during the Bethania Ramble hosted by Preservation NC.

Bethania history

Spread over 500 acres, Bethania is the only example of a European-style, open field agricultural village remaining in NC. The town was established in 1759 as a self-sufficient farming community where Moravians and non-Moravian communities could settle. Locals then began to buy land and build houses on site (35 years before Salem did the same).

Bethania Moravian Church

The church was formed soon after eight Moravian families sought refuge in the town of Bethania in the midst of the French and Indian War. The group were permitted to settle on the land as they expressed their love for the Moravian Church. The church burned down in 1942 and was rebuilt.

God's Acre

You'll be greeted by tall pine trees as soon as you enter through the Moravian Cemetery. Like God’s Acre in Old Salem, it continues the tradition of holding an Easter sunrise service every year. The cemetery is open every day and a great escape for some quiet reflection.

Explore trails

Spend a peaceful time exploring the outdoors in this small town. Choose between Black Bottom Walnut Trail, Orchard, Graveyard, and Reuter Survey Trails. This is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and slow down your day.

Bethania House

Editor Kellina here. This cute shop stopped me in my tracks. It's located on Main Street, just across the west side of Bethania Moravian Church, and only opens on the first Saturday of the month. Be sure to plan your trip accordingly if you want to leave with some historical keepsakes.

Take a virtual tour to learn more about Bethania's historic property. Got any more historical facts about Bethania, drop them in the comment section below.