Historians of American religion have recently written about the existence of religious diversity, which was especially evident in the American South. Although many have tended to target their research on social issues and politics, denominational distinctiveness in theological beliefs and practices ought to be seen as yet another form of diversity. Roanoke, Virginia may not be as well known as other Southern cities, such as Richmond or Atlanta, but being birthed as a "boomtown" during the Progressive Era, it offers itself as a unique example of how the religious institutions helped shape the early growth of the city, and cyclically, how the city shaped the religious institutions as well. Protestants, Catholics, and even religious minorities had come to the "Magic City," as Roanoke was nicknamed. Many brought their religious views and denominational preferences with them, and others were eventually converted to one of the numerous religious institutions. Within this localized context, religious diversity is clearly demonstrated among the different denominations, but discrepancies and complementarities can also be seen in relation to the broader historiographical context of Southern religious history and of denominational history. Examining Roanoke's history through the lens of each denomination reveals many of the religious complexities that existed in the New South. And despite the wide variation of religious belief, most of Roanoke's residents understood religion as being an indispensable component to the social and spiritual wellbeing of their young city.
