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The historic Tabernacle at Canby Grove

Canby Grove · Since 1928

A Rich
History

Nearly a century of worship, retreats, camps, renewal, and life-changing gatherings along the Molalla River.

Historic photograph of a crowd seated on benches outside Canby Grove’s original Tabernacle
A gathering at the old TabernacleCanby Grove archival photograph · Date unknown.Photo source: Gospel Outreaching Gatherings

A legacy of service

A gathering place from the beginning.

Canby Grove was founded in 1928 by the Christian and Missionary Alliance. The property became a place for Christians to gather, worship, rest, and grow—and generations of guests have carried those memories home.

The Tabernacle was the first building erected at the Grove. Historical accounts remember pastor and author A. W. Tozer speaking there, while baptisms took place in the Molalla River. A 1928 newspaper article, long displayed in the dining room, recorded the purchase of the property and Canby’s selection as the gathering place.

In 2016, a guest returned to celebrate her 100th birthday and shared childhood memories of summer retreats, a small cabin built by her father, and the spiritual awakening experienced by young people at the Grove.

Milestones through the years.

1928

Canby Grove was founded, and the barn-style Tabernacle became the first building erected on the property.

1968

Canby Grove began serving as an Outdoor School site, welcoming generations of Oregon students for outdoor learning.

2010–Today

A new season of restoration brought building repairs, lodge and dining improvements, renewed cabins, gathering places, and expanded recreation.

Historic places at the Grove

The story lives in these spaces.

The Tabernacle interior at Canby Grove
The TabernacleThe Grove’s original 1928 building, remembered as a place of preaching, music, worship, and community gatherings.
Bell tower and entrance of the historic Tabernacle
The Bell TowerA familiar landmark at the entrance to the historic barn-style venue.
The historic Tabernacle with a glossy green front overhang and newly paved path
Still GatheringThe historic building continues to welcome concerts, celebrations, retreats, and community events.
Canby Grove swimming pool, cedar pergola, and renovated pool patio beneath a blue sky
Renewing the OldRestoration since 2010 has renewed buildings, guest rooms, gathering areas, recreation spaces, and essential infrastructure throughout the Grove.

Historical notes are based on Canby Grove and Gospel Outreaching Gatherings history materials, with additional Outdoor School program records.

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