Our History
Neelsville's story began in 1845 with a handful of faithful people and a calling from God. Joseph Neel donated a plot of land and $50, and God did the rest. Since that beginning, generations have worshiped, prayed, listened to God's Word, celebrated at weddings, mourned at funerals, and served the community.
During the Civil War, Union troops marched up Frederick Road on their way to the battle of Antietam. In 1878, a sanctuary was built that was adorned with a red neon cross in 1935. This beloved sacred space stands to this day and has been designated a historic site by Montgomery County. Over many years it has served as a main sanctuary, a clothes closet for needy families, and now, a worship space for three different congregations that praise God in English, Spanish, and Korean languages.
Neelsville has been an important institution in the Germantown community for well over a century. We are gratefully aware that we stand in a long and vibrant tradition of faithful men and women who have come before us. We are thankful that God has more in store for us, and so we eagerly embrace the story that God is continuing to write at Neelsville.