147 Years of History

Whether you love history, or love Craigville Retreat Center, we hope you will like this bit of history regarding the Craigville Retreat Center name and its Tabernacle. The Craigville Tabernacle has a history almost as old as the community itself.

In 1873, a frame building covered with cloth was constructed, with dirt floors and wood plank “pews.” In 1876 the Town of Barnstable celebrated the Centennial of the Declaration of Independence at the Tabernacle. The community, once known as “Camp Christian,” was renamed “Craigville” in 1881 to honor the well-known educator and preacher Rev. Austin Craig, who died that year. The present structure was built in 1887 after the previous structure was damaged almost a decade earlier. 

The Tabernacle has seen a lot of improvements and updates since then, but you can still see the pews from the 1800s, the pipe organ from 1885 (installed in the Tabernacle in 1961), and hear the bell from 1891. Over the years, thousands have gathered at the Tabernacle and received joy, hope, and a sense of community (much needed especially in these pandemic times). 

If you have memories of the Tabernacle, please send us your story. We’d love to hear how it has benefitted you or your loved ones. Email. 

If you’re looking to visit, call us soon! We still have winter and spring availability in our cottages, a nice place to work and school from at your home away from home all while abiding by state, local and federal laws for safety.

We hope you enjoy these wonderful photos provided.