Just north of Madison, Virginia, Hebron Lutheran Church is the oldest Lutheran church operated continuously by Lutherans in the United States, and one of only four remaining wooden churches from colonial Virginia. The church was constructed in 1740 by German immigrants who arrived in Germanna in 1717, creating the second Germanna colony.

These initial settlers served as indentured servants for Governor Spotswood at Germanna. Around 1725, they moved to the Robinson River Valley and received land patents spanning up to 400 acres. They constructed the original log cabin church near the present day site of Hebron Lutheran Church.

An annex was added to the church around 1800, followed by the installation of a tracker organ crafted by David Tannenberg in 1802. Transported over 300 miles by ox cart from Lititz, Pennsylvania, the organ remains in use today with minimal modifications. In 1885, Italian immigrant Joseph Oddenino painted the church’s ceiling. The building underwent significant renovation in 1961, and a cemetery established in 1903 lies in front of the church.

Situated on a slight elevation, the church boasts scenic views of the Robinson River and surroundings. Platforms near the front and side of the church served as horse stiles, which facilitated entering and exiting horse-drawn carriages. In 1789, the church steps were the site of a political debate between James Madison and James Monroe.

By special request, church tours are available. Please contact the church office for more information.