Beacon of Peace - Sharpsburg, MD
N 39° 28.530 W 077° 44.803
18S E 263739 N 4373147
The Dunker Church was as much a part of the Battle of Antietam as anything else found here. This contributing structure to the Antietam Battlefield H.D. saw its share of misery, pain and horror during the great battle, serving as a field hospital.
Waymark Code: WMDA0M
Location: Maine, United States
Date Posted: 12/11/2011
Views: 9
Antietam Battlefield has a beautiful series or collection of these horizontal interpretives. They adorn most every structure, giving the visitor an account of what went on here in September of 1862 and outlining the significance of every historical house, barn, farm and church. This sign is found in front of the church and to the right, near Dunker Church Road. The sign of history reads as follows:
"May it stand as it did in war - as a beacon to guide men searching their way through the darkness. May it stand throughout all ages as a symbol of mercy, peace, and understanding."
Maryland Governor Millard Tawes
Church Rededication Service, September 2, 1962
The Battle of Antietam was the bloodiest one-day battle in American History. Yet ironically one of the most noted landmarks on this field of combat is a house of worship associated with peace and love. This historic church was built by local German Baptist Brethren in 1852 on land donated by local farmer Samuel Mumma. The name "Dunker" comes from their practice of full immersion baptism. During its early history the congregation consisted of about a half-dozen farm families from the local area. Although heavily damaged during the battle by rifle and artillery fire, the church survived, only to be blown down by a windstorm in 1921. Rebuilt for the Civil War Centennial, it stands today as not only a step back in time, but also as a solemn reminder of the impact the battle had on the local families.
On the right side of the marker are photos of The Church Through the Years.
After the battle the church was repaired, but in 1921 a severe windstorm collapsed the church.
During the 1930s and 1940s a private structure on the foundation as a lunch stand.
The church was reconstructed in 1962 using many original materials.
The inside of the church today. During services, the congregation was divided with men seated on one side and women on the other. The Dunkers believed in modesty and simplicity, concepts clearly evident in this structure.