One of the first religious denominations founded in America, the River Brethren held its first baptism in nearby Conoy Creek around 1780. Worship services were held down this lane at Magdalena House, the home of Jacob Engel, one of the founders. The River Brethren changed its name to the Brethren in Christ in the mid-19th century. Other organizations with River Brethren roots are the Old Order River Brethren and the United Zion Church.