Preserving Pioneers’ Heritage and Faith.
Old Salem Shrine captures the local color of rural Dakota County in the late 1800s and early 1900s as well a sense of the pioneers’ heritage and steadfast faith in God. The current building was constructed in 1875 and has been cared for by generations of volunteer trustees. The church has been preserved much as it was when the last regular Sunday service was held around 1913. The upkeep of the historic building is funded entirely through donations and bequests, and modest rental fees for weddings and special events.
Read more about the church’s rich history.
Upcoming Events
Take a peek inside the Little White Church at one of the upcoming events or by appointment.
annual Epiphany Celebration OF CAROLS AND CANDLELIGHT
Sunday, January 5, 2025 at 4:30 PM
Guest Speaker: Preacher and Missionary Ian Peters, Founder of CityLights Globlal
Ian Peters’ mission is to speak prophetically into the life of the church and reach out to those who do not yet have a personal relationship with Jesus.
Born into the home of a missionary and raised in Australia, Ian felt the call of God early in life and began preaching in 1981. His ministry has included pastoral work as well as ministering in camps, seminars, conferences and crusades all over the world. Ian has the passion to see the fires of revival lit in the lives of believers as well as reaching those who have not committed their lives to Jesus. This passion has led to the founding of CityLights Global, with a commitment to raise up a generation that will bring the Word of God to those who need it.
150-Year Celebration | Founders Day Open House
Sunday, June 1, 2025
A simpler time.
From a congregation formed in 1857, the “Little White Church” hosts two annual worship services, weddings, family reunions, tours, and other special events. The current building, built around 1875, measures 20’6” x 32’ 6”, has a hall or tower entrance of 5’ x 7’, and measures 14’ from the stone foundation to the eaves, with a tower of approximately 30’.
Many of interior elements are original or of the period, including the potbelly wood-burning stove, wooden pews, and the vintage organ powered by foot pedals.
Join us for our Annual Founders Day service the first Sunday in June, and the Epiphany Service, generally the first Sunday in January. Inquire about holding a wedding at the church.