If you have a fascination with abandoned places and a love for history, exploring abandoned rural churches should be added to your list. These forgotten gems are haunting beauties and offer a glimpse into the past. We will show you how to find these hidden treasures and provide tips for a memorable exploration.
Research and Plan Your Trip.
Before embarking on your adventure to explore abandoned rural churches, it's important to research and plan your trip accordingly. Start by identifying the specific area or region where you want to explore. Look for any known churches in that area and gather information about their history and current condition. This will help you determine which churches are worth visiting and ensure that you have a safe and successful exploration.
Additionally, check if any permissions are required to access, as some may be on private property. Planning will help you make the most of your trip and ensure a memorable experience. In Saskatchewan, if churches are still consecrated, the church will own the land, and you are free to visit. If a church has been moved to a different property or someone's yard, it is on private land and you should not trespass. Note, many churches are locked but permission can usually be obtained by someone with a key.
Use Online Resources and Maps.
One of the best ways to locate and explore abandoned rural churches is by using online and offline resources and maps. There are several websites and databases dedicated to documenting and mapping these sites. Websites dedicated to local eparchies, Diocese, and similar are great ways to find churches in a specific area. You can also use mapping tools like Google Maps and apps for your phone to search for specific locations and get directions to these sites.
Additionally, online forums and communities dedicated to urban exploration can be a valuable resource for finding hidden gems and getting insider tips on accessing these churches. Don’t forget about Facebook groups relating to photography, abandoned buildings, and history. By utilizing these online resources and maps, you can easily plan your route and ensure you don't miss out on any fascinating abandoned churches during your exploration.
Be Respectful and Mindful of Safety.
When exploring abandoned rural churches, it is important to approach the experience with respect and mindfulness of safety. These churches may be in a state of disrepair and could pose potential hazards such as unstable structures, broken glass, or other dangers. Always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. It is also important to remember that these churches hold historical and cultural significance, so be respectful of the property and avoid causing any damage or disturbance. Take only photographs and leave only footprints. By being respectful and mindful of safety, you can have a rewarding and enjoyable experience exploring these abandoned rural churches.
Note: In Saskatchewan, it's common to bate rural buildings for rats/mice. Some buildings may also have cisterns inside or outside buildings which are usually poorly covered or not covered and may be hard to see. Church basements are also commonly flooded so look before you step.
Capture the Beauty Through Photography.
Exploring abandoned rural churches provides a unique opportunity to capture their beauty through photography. These churches often have stunning architectural details and a sense of history that can be beautifully captured in photographs. When photographing these churches, consider using different angles and perspectives to highlight their unique features. Experiment with lighting to create dramatic effects and capture the atmosphere of the space. Remember to be respectful of the property and avoid causing any damage while taking photographs. By capturing the beauty of these abandoned rural churches, you can preserve their memory and share their stories with others.
Photography Tip: When photographing architecture like churches it's best to use wide-angle lenses to capture the wide scene but don't forget macro of the small details.
Learn the History and Stories Behind the Churches.
Before you set out to explore abandoned rural churches, take the time to learn about their history and the stories behind them. Research the area and find out when the church was built, who attended it, and any significant events that took place there. This will give you a deeper appreciation for the church and its significance to the community. You can also reach out to local historians, museums, or residents who may have information or personal stories about the church. By understanding the history and stories behind these churches, you can truly appreciate the beauty and significance of these abandoned treasures.
Protect
Keep in mind that many churches, although they may look abandoned are still part of the church. Most times, the building will still be owned by the church as the time and cost to go through the process of deconsecrating and demolishing the building is too great for the remaining congregation. Many rural churches are also used for regular services in the summer only as they are heated by a wood stove or they only hold one service a year. These buildings may be locked and it is best to respect them.
We know the excitement that comes with finding these places and sharing them online. Keep in mind that if you give away the name or location you are opening up the possibility for others to visit this site. This may backfire if the wrong people find the location - they may steal, vandalize, or even burn it down. Hard to believe? We have seen it.