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
150th Anniversary COMMUNITY REUNION | Founders Day Open House
Sunday, June 1, 2025, 12 NOON - 3 PM
About 20 years after Salem Evangelical Church ceased having Sunday services, a community reunion was organized by descendants and held in August 1931. Nearly 130 people attended, according to newspaper reports.
Please join us Sunday, June 1, to mark 150 years that Old Salem Shrine has stood as a reminder of the steadfast faith of early settlers to the Saint Paul area. As Minnesota's first congregation of the Evangelical Association of North America, Old Salem holds a special place in history in our state.
This community event will have fun for all and offers an opportunity for descendants of the founding families to explore their heritage, couples who married at the church to visit once again and first-time visitors to learn about Old Salem. The event will include:
Guided Church and Cemetery Tours
Dedication of New Landmark Sign (12:45 p.m.)
Re-creation of the above reunion photo (1 p.m.)
FREE treats from an ice cream food truck
Bake sale and beverages
Watch for more event updates and special memories on our Facebook page and via email in the coming weeks.
annual Epiphany Celebration OF CAROLS AND CANDLELIGHT
Sunday, January 4, 2026
The church is only open to the public at the above events. If you’d like to see inside the Little White Church for a possible wedding or private event, please contact us.
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.