Hoddom
A large church which dominates the village of Ecclefechan, the largest village in the charge. It serves the local community and the surrounding rural area. It was built in 1865 and was called Johnston Church in memory of Rev John Johnston. It was his first and only charge (1761 - 1812). He was a vey clever and well educated minister and was very highly thought of by the famous writer Thomas Carlyle. Carlyle has quite a place in local history having been born here and his resting place is in the graveyard by the church. Meetings were held at first in Meeting Rooms and were very well attended, some people walking 15-20 miles twice on a Sunday to attend in all weathers. The Hoddom Manse is currently let. The church has a flat with a resident caretaker. The current roll is 138.
Hoddom Parish Church, established about 1615, was built about a mile from the village of Ecclefechan towards Hoddom Castle. It was rebuilt in 1816 and again in 1914. The two churches were joined in 1956 and were called Hoddom Church. Unfortunately, the church at Hoddom Cross was destroyed by fire in 1975. The local cemetry is in the grounds.
