history

Two centuries ago our forefathers gathered from their scattered homesteads…

…for a time of fellowship, we now leave our crowded cities, our busy schedules and withdraw to these grounds for 10 days of blessed communion and refreshing. In doing so we may be responding to the invitation of Jesus to “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest” (Mark 6:31 NIV).

~ Mark Lynn Smith (1926–2011)

HOLLOW ROCK RUN
Spreading the Gospel through sunshine and rain, over swollen rivers and beyond the mountains, the tireless, dedicated circuit riders played an important role in teaching the Word to the local Hollow Rock settlers. Geographically isolated from one another as well as from civilized society, the settlers relied heavily on these preachers. Early records show that a Methodist Ohio Territory circuit was formed in 1787 in an effort to reach all of the “log cabin societies” in Jefferson County. By 1810, Ohio alone had 25 such circuits. In this local  area, some of the circuit meetings held were at Cross Creek in 1812, Hales Meeting House in 1813, and Edward Taylor’s log cabin on Hollow Rock Run in 1814. Since it was on a main route, Taylor’s log cabin and farmland (today’s camp property) was not as remote as one might envision.

~ Excerpt from
Hollow Rock: A History
by Eleanor Smith

Filled with historical photos and well researched information about the camp meeting movement in American and the history of Hollow Rock, this book can be purchased at the camp bookstore or by sending $10 to:

Eleanor Smith
2950 Winchester Sthrn Rd.
Canal Winchester, OH 43110

The Historical Room on the campgrounds is filled with original source documents, artifacts, photos and recordings from the rich history of Hollow Rock. The Historical Room is open to the public during the camp meeting or by appointment.