Tinkling Spring Church began as the Southern Branch of the “Triple Forks of Shenandoah” Congregation, which called John Craig as pastor in 1741. A church was completed here about 1748, and two other buildings later succeeded it. Beginning in 1777, James Waddel, the noted blind preacher, served as supply for some years. R.L. Dabney, of Stonewall Jackson’s staff, was minister here from 1847 to 1852.