Noah’s Ark (God’s Ark of Safety) | Hagerstown

Noah’s Ark, commonly known as God’s Ark of Safety, is a distinctive and ambitious religious monument located near Frostburg, Maryland, just a short drive from Cumberland. It stands as one of the largest unfinished structures in the region and represents a decades-long project driven by faith, perseverance, and community dedication.

Origins and Conception

The project was conceived in 1974 by Pastor Richard Greene, founder of the God’s Ark of Safety Ministries. Inspired by a spiritual vision, Greene felt compelled to build a full-scale replica of the biblical Noah’s Ark, intended as a “Last Day Witness to the World.” His aim was to create a physical symbol of salvation, warning, and hope, reflecting the biblical story of Noah and the flood.

Construction began in 1976 with foundational earthworks. The site was carefully selected on a hillside near Frostburg, where the steep terrain allowed the ark’s massive footprint to be partially embedded into the landscape, enhancing stability and visibility.

Scale and Design

The ark was planned to be a true-to-scripture, full-size model based on the measurements given in the Bible (Genesis 6:15). When completed, it would measure approximately:

450 feet long (about one and a half football fields)

75 feet wide

45 feet high

This scale makes it one of the largest wooden structures ever attempted. The ark’s design incorporates heavy timber framing, steel supports, and reinforced concrete footings to ensure structural integrity. The project’s builders followed traditional shipbuilding techniques adapted for this landlocked ark.

Construction History and Challenges

Initial construction involved extensive site preparation, including moving thousands of tons of earth and pouring more than 3,000 tons of concrete to form the ark’s foundation and basement levels. Over the years, various phases of the ark’s superstructure were built, with steel framing erected by 1999 to define the hull shape.

However, the project encountered multiple challenges that slowed progress:

Funding limitations: The construction relied primarily on donations from the ministry’s congregation and supporters, which limited the pace and scale of work.

Technical complexities: Building such a large wooden structure with accuracy and durability required specialized skills and materials.

Weather and environmental factors: The site’s mountainous location posed additional difficulties, including harsh winters that limited construction seasons.

As a result, the ark remains incomplete, essentially a large skeletal frame covered in partial wooden siding, leaving much of the interior unfinished. Despite this, the ark stands as an imposing landmark visible from the nearby highway.

Purpose and Cultural Significance

The ark is more than a construction project; it embodies deep spiritual meaning for Pastor Greene, his congregation, and many visitors. It serves as a physical manifestation of biblical teachings about judgment, salvation, and hope. The ministry’s vision positions the ark as a message to all people, encouraging reflection on faith and the promises described in scripture.

Over the decades, the ark has become a well-known roadside attraction in Western Maryland, drawing curiosity from travelers along Interstate 68 and beyond. Its striking presence on the hillside sparks interest both as a religious symbol and an example of a grassroots building endeavor fueled by faith.

Visitor Experience

The ark is located at 18600 Cherry Lane SW, Frostburg, MD, just a few miles from Cumberland. While the structure is visible from the roadside and can be viewed up close, the site is not generally open for public tours or interior exploration. Visitors can walk around the exterior and appreciate the size and scope of the project.

The ministry maintains a phone contact for inquiries, but due to the site’s incomplete status and private ownership, public access remains limited. Visitors should respect property boundaries and any posted signs.

Legacy and Current Status

After more than four decades, God’s Ark of Safety remains a work in progress, symbolizing unwavering commitment and vision. Though incomplete, the ark stands as a testament to the power of faith-driven community efforts and the enduring human desire to create meaningful landmarks.

Its presence enriches the cultural tapestry of the Cumberland-Frostburg area, offering a unique attraction that combines history, religion, and architectural ambition. The ark continues to inspire discussions about faith, perseverance, and the blending of myth and reality in physical form.

Summary

Noah’s Ark in Cumberland is a monumental, full-size replica of the biblical ark, begun in 1976 by Pastor Richard Greene’s ministry. Despite being unfinished, it remains one of the largest religious structures in the United States. Located near Frostburg, it is a powerful symbol of faith and salvation, visible from Interstate 68 and notable for its impressive scale and the decades of effort invested in its creation. The site offers a striking, thought-provoking landmark for visitors interested in religious history, architecture, and Americana roadside culture.