strawbridge methodist shrine

Robert Strawbridge and his wife Elizabeth arrived from Ireland in 1760 and rented a small farm and a log house on this spot with the objective of preaching to those who were farming in the surrounding area. They established a "house church" in line with those of the Wesley brothers in England, which became the first Society of Methodists in the American colonies. They finally built a Log Meeting House for preaching and singing, a structure that symbolizes the foundation of Methodism in America. Strawbridge and Francis Asbury set the stage for the rapid growth of the denomination as it moved west after the Revolutionary War. The site includes the Strawbridge home, a replica of the Log Meeting House, the Evans house (moved 5 miles from another site), the Visitors' Center and Curator's house as well as two statues of the two Strawbridges. Well preserved both inside and outside with interesting perspectives late 18th century life. Check with the curator to arrange a tour.

I am not sure how you rate a religious "shrine" but I will comment on it. The site appears well maintained on level ground (making it essentially handicap accessible though it may not be ideal), contains some interpretive signage (look also for a placard on MD route 407), free parking available, and you have to take some "back" roads to get there. If i understand the historic placards correctly, then the meeting house is not located on the original site though it is close by. It would be nice if the interior was restored and accessible but I understand the complications this presents. Worth a trip at least once if you you are in the area and interested in the history of Methodism or Maryland. The closest town is New Windsor which is home to a few other basic points of interest and basic services for a traveler.