Waldensian Heritage Museum

The Waldenses, dating from at least the 12th century, endured persecution, plagues, exile into barren lands, and rulers’ edicts calling for their extinction as they sought to read the Bible, preach its Gospel, and live by its tenets. They joined the Reformation in 1532 and suffered further persecution as Christians were killed or imprisoned, and they were eventually exiled into the Swiss Alps. In 1689, a contingent of men began the battle back to their valleys in the Glorious Return, and on February 17, 1848, the Edict of Emancipation granted them political and legal rights. Their traditions continue in this community, originally founded by 29 settlers on May 29, 1893, and the Waldensian Presbyterian Church stands as a testament to their perseverance and hope.

Valdese, North Carolina · United States