Phillipi Primitive Baptist Church was established in 1835. The date of construction has been quoted as 1864, but I cannot confirm that date.

It is built in the common style of Primitive Baptist churches of the latter half of the 19th century.

Though the pews have long been removed, the interior remains in fairly stable condition.

Unfortunately, exterior damage will soon begin taking its toll if stabilization isn’t implemented.

In the adjacent cemetery, two vernacular headstones are of particular importance. They both use stenciled text and have similar unusual shapes. They’re likely the work of the same maker, perhaps a member of the congregation.

The inscription reads: Little Mary Ollie, Daughter of W. J. & S. S. Lightner Born May 10, 1880. Departed This Life Nov. 2, 1881. The star shape of the headstone is enforced by three other stars, stenciled on the surface.

The inscription reads: In Memory of R. M. DuPriest Husband on N. E. DuPriest. Born Dec. 8, 1839 Died August 29, 1880. This memorial also contains star stencils.

The church and its historic cemetery should be considered an important resource.