History of Alabama Church of Christ Members and Preachers

Tidwell Chapel Church of Christ Cemetery

2008-03-15T13:39:00.000-07:00

My mom, Ada McCollum Box, standing by my daddy, Reedie Box's, grave in Tidwell Chapel Cemetery
Submitted by Patsy Box Johnson

Directions to Cemetery: From Jasper, Alabama, travel highway 78 to Eldridge. Turn left onto County Hwy. 13. Travel this road till you get to County Hwy 24 and turn right. Keep on this road till you see Tidwell Chapel Church of Christ on left. Cemetery in front of Church building.

The graves are not in order at this time. Will be adding records as time permits.
Amos H. Roby b: 7 Sept 1883 D: 27 July 1909
Emma "Will" Box Roby b: 31 May 1883 d: 2 March 1969
James Franklin "Frank" Box b: 13 Dec 1872 d: 17 May 1949
Virginia "Jennie" McCollum Box b: 14 Aug 1886 d: 14 May 1963
Reedie F. Box b: 21 Feb 1917 d: 6 Apr 1965
Ada McCollum Box b: 12 Nov 1919 d:(living)
George Washington Box b: 10 Jan 1841 d: 24 Dec 1909
Polly Anne Tidwell Box b: 1836 d: 9 Apr 1934
Thomas Goodwin "Tom" McCollum b: 11 March 1891 d: 4 June 1931
Bessie Lula Box McCollum b: 19 Aug 1898 d: 31 Jan 1931
Clifton Tidwell b: 22 Dec 1918 d: 15 Jul 1991
Sarah Jane Tidwell b: 4 Oct 1912 d:(living)
John "Skinny" Tidwell b: 25 May 1811 d: 1 Nov 1888 (first to be buried in Tidwell Cemetery)
Malinda "Linnie" Tidwell b: Dec 1820 d: Abt 1900
William Henry "Bill" Box b: Apr 1869 d: 1934
Mary Della Fowler Box b: Sept 1878 d: 1925
Adel Hallmark Box b: 1900 d: 1938
Grady Box b: 8 Apr 1920 d: 7 Jul 1921

Sherman Hal Tucker b: 1913 d: 1944

Elizabeth A. Box, dau of GW & Ann Box b: 12 May 1872 d: 12 Jul 1900
Howard Taft Roby b: 1 Dec 1908 d: 6 Nov 1910
Ida Roby b: 11 Feb 1896 d: 5 Mar 1909
L.C. Roby (mother)b: 30 Sept 1876 d: 10, Mar 1934
A.B. Roby b: 29 Mar 1871 d: 25 Dec 1944

Carlous Roby b: 10 May 1921 d: 4 Jul 1921

Gladys Roby b: 26 Aug 1919 d: 22 Nov 1922
Alvis C. Roby b: 23 Sept 1925 d: 12 Feb 1926
Benton(inf of JT & LE Benton)b: 3 Apr 1921 d: 1 May 1921
Benton(inf of JT & LE Benton)b: 13 Feb 1919 d: 14 Feb 1919
Roby(child of JW &__Roby)b: 30 Dec 1905 d: 4 Jan 1906
William J. Tucker(son of HC & Lanie Tucker) b: 14 MAr 1899 d: 18 Nov 1901
Velma White b: 22 Jan 1892 d: 5 Apr 1913
Jane Armstrong Tidwell b: 1856 d: 14 Apr 1934
Andrew Jackson "Buzzhead" Tidwell b: 1857 d: 14 Apr 1934
Lona J. McWhirter b: 6 Jun 1909 d: 12 Dec 1910
Jim Tidwell b: 1884 d: 1928
Herren(inf of EC & SA Herren) b&d: 18 Sept 1893
Herren(inf son of RC & CE Herren)b&d: 26 Aug 1901
Sarah A. Herren b: 6 Sept 1865 d: 19 Oct 1901
R. Filow Herren b: 13 Sept 1886 d: 11 Nov 1901
Albert Herren(son of RC & CE Herren) b: 12 Nov 1902 d: 24 Nov 1902
Aaron McKinley Herren b: 28 Jan 1897 d: 16 Apr 1910
Herren(inf girl of RC & CE Herren) b&d: 17 Dec 1920
Leroy herren b: 12 May 1922 d: 1 Jun 1922
Renea Tidwell b: 4 Apr 1890 d: 16 Apr 1953
Wheeler Tidwell b: 18 Mar 1902 d: 17 Jul 1905
A.J. Tidwell b: 1876 d: 1927
Rosie E. Box Tucker b: 11 Jan 1894 d: 1 May 1916
W.C. Tidwell b: 1880 d: 1942
Felix Tidwell b: 11 Aug 1909 d: 8 Nov 1912
Fowler(inf of C.J.& L. Fowler) b&d: 1908
Ottie Tidwell & baby
Houston Sprinkle b: 15 Dec 1872 d: 7 Sept 1945
Hassie Tidwell Sprinkle b: 8 Mar 1874 d: 23 Jan 1943
Sarry Tidwell b: 1861 d: 27 Mar 1923
Henry Tidwell b: 4 Mar 1848 d: 27 Oct 1916
Henry B. Tidwell b: 27 Jun 1872 d: 18 Apr 1935
Judge Tidwell b: 23 Sept 1928 d: 19 Jun 1938
J.G. Hollingsworth b: 3 Apr 1871 d: 6 Jul 1941
Jessie Markem-Ala. Cpl. US Army Korea- b: 7 Jun 1931 d: 22 Dec 1955
Tom Barnes b: 28, Nov 1887 d: 18 Dec 1952
L. Barnes b: 6 May 1913 d: 22 Sept 1919
Martha Jane McDonald b: 14 Sept 1864 d: 1 Jan 1925
William Samuels b: 3 Sept 1925 d:
Boney Samuels b: 30 Sept 1925; d: 13 Oct 1925
Loney Samuels b: 30 Sept 1925 d: 17 Oct 1925
Ozibell Dozier b: 1882 d: 1943
Jimmie Lou Tidwell b: 15 Sept 1939 d: 30 Oct 1940
Prince Tidwell b: 1934 d:----
Arvie Tidwell b: 1936 d:---
L.E. Tidwell b: 1904 d: 1951
Walter B. Tidwell b: 1913 d: 1942
S.J. Box b: 20 Jul 1877 d: 15 Aug 1878
Inf child of J.W. & Siddie White b: 2 Jul 1885 d:---
Inf Dau of J.W. & Siddie White b & d: 16 Aug 1884
Clarncie Tucker b: 14 Jun 1916 d: 15 Oct 1917
Sim Tucker b: 5 Jul 1873 d: 4 Aug 1938
Ola Zola Tucker b: 28 Nov 1911 d: 3 Aug 1913
Cora C. Tucker dau of J.D. & A.E. Tucker b: 26 Nov 1900 d: 27 Nov 1900
Mary J. Tucker b: 1851 d: 1894
W.M. Tucker b: 29 Mar 1834 d: 6 Apr 1894
Ollie Tucker b: May 1833 d: 22 May 1927
Sarona Tidwell b: 4 Jan 1887 d: 4 Sept 1887
Mary Ruth Box b: 12 May 1934 d: 12 Feb 1943
Dudrop Tucker b: 1932 d: 1934
Inf McCollum of Jim & Velma b & d 1924
Aughty Box dau of J.C. & A.E. Box b: 16 Sept 1894 d: 8 Jan 1896
Mollie A.----- wife of ---
Martha J. Agee wife of John W. Agee b: 28 Nov 1876 d: 27 Jan 1896
Henry C. Wakefield son of G.C. & M.A. b: 16 jan 1894 d: 20 Mar 1896
J.A. Tidwell b: 20 Jun 1859 d: 22 Apr 1918-age 59 yrs. 10 mo. 2 days
W.D. Baccus b: 5 Feb 1884 d: 5 Feb 1942
A. Dell Baccus b: 1 May --d: Jul 1902
J.H. Baccus b: 9 Dec 1901 d:----
Charles Tidwell b: 4 Nov 1929 d: 8 Sep 1939
William R. Keeton b: 1903 d: 20 Oct 1956-52 yrs
Eula Keeton b: 1907 d:---
Arven Dodd b: 1910 d: 1927
Louise Dodd b: 31 Dec 1914 d: 16 Nov 1916
Taft Tucker b: 9 Feb 1920? d: 11 Apr 19-?
,font >Harris McCaleb b: 28 Nov 1917 d: 20 Dec 1917
Clarence Sprinkle b: 7 Nov 1917 d: 4 Dec 1918
Leeler Whitehead b: 10 Feb 1899 d: 3 Nov 1918
Gennie Kelly b: 17 Apr 1873 d: 18 Mar 1958
S.E. Dozier b: 1879 d: 19-?
G.N. Dozier b: 1879 d: 1955
Travis Johnson b: 1918 d: 1926
Lynn Johnson b: 1888 d: 1936
Sallie J. Johnson b: 1871 d: 1941
Press Johnson b: 1868, d: 1951
Lincoln Tidwell b: 1883 d: 1958
Callie Tidwell b: 1889 d: 1958
Spencer "Bill" Tidwell b: Apr 1882 d: 1959
Frances "Mank" Tidwell b: Aug 1870 d: 2 Jan 1961
George Tidwell b: 1874 d: 14 Feb 1962
Nancy "Suge" Parker Tidwell b: 1884 d: 30 Jun 1961
Perry B. Tidwell b: Feb 1878 d: 1939
Malinda "Nan" Tidwell b: Jun 1867 d: 1936
Eden "Pret" Tidwell b: 1846 d: 1933
Lizza Tucker Tidwell b: ---d: 1884
Edward "Ed" Tucker b: 24 Dec 1902 d: 2 Oct 1973
Icy Tidwell Tucker b: 25 Sep 1905 d: 29 Jun 1991
Ethel Tucker Dozier b: 13 Jan 1905 d: 24 Jul 1978
Lolar Tidwell b: 13 Apr 1915 d: 24 Feb 1992
George N. Dozier b: 15 May 1879 d: 1 Apr 1955
Lucendi A. ----Dozier b: 6 Sep 1879 d: 13 Apr 1956
William R. Keeton b: 1903 d: 1956
Eula Mae ---Keeton b: 1907 d:---
Charles R. Keeton b: 1933 d:---
Yvonne---Keeton B; 1937 d:---
Arven Dodd b: 1910 d: 1927
Louise Dodd b: 31 Dec 1914 d: 16 Nov 1916
Frank C. Tidwell b: 13 Aug 1891 d: 25 Sept 1961
Essie Tucker Tidwell b: 1 Mar 1895 d: 23 Apr 1979
Henry "Bird" Tidwell b: 7 Jun 1872 d: 19 Apr 1935
Olga V. Stacks, dau of E.J. & J.T., b: 8 May 1916 d: 11 May 1917
Ida Howell b: 5 Dec 1897 d: 21 Oct 1918
Turner McCarter, son of M&E, b: 28 Jun 1885 d: Aug 1885
Ida McCollum Sparks b: 19 June 1913 d: 29 Jan 2003
Amanda Nicole Box b: 4 Nov 1980 d: 29 Dec 1999

Church of Christ Preachers from 1890-1930

2008-01-24T17:29:00.000-08:00

Fred McCaleb

Church of Christ Preachers in
NE Fayette County Alabama
1890-1930

A.F. Anthony
W.R. Anthony
O.B. Anthony
Bro. Burns
Bro. Calaway
Bro. Burns
Bro. Cannon
Sam Carson
Bro. Chambers
Bro. Charles A. Wheeler
Bro. Corbett
Bro. Bailey
Bro. A.D. Dias
Bro. O.C. Dobbs
Bro. Dobson
Bro. G.A. Dunn
Bro. Chester Estes
Bro. Fowler
Bro. Franklin
Bro. Freeman
Florial Hall
E.C. Herren
Wiley Herren
Raymond Hiten
J.C. Holebrook
W.G.Hollingsworth
Judge Hollingsworth
Bro. Hudson
John E. Kelly
Bro. Loyd
Bro. McCluskey
Bro. Nelson of Tx.
Carey Nichols
Gus Nichols
Bro. Hill of Tn.
W.H. Parker
Bro. Taylor
Virgil Randolph
Jeremiah Randolph
Simeon Randolph
Bro. Russell
Bro. Salter of C.Hill
Bro. ShowalterBro. Tarwater
Bro. Tipton
James M. Wade
Minister Wilcutt
J.S. Wood

Church of Christ Assembling Places at That Time

Barn
Berea
Bowles
Barnett
Clover Hill
Elam
Hubbert Chapel
Hubbertsville
Bishops
J.B. Anthony's
Whites Chapel
New River

Fred's Collection of Fayette County, AL Church of Christ History

2008-01-24T17:01:00.000-08:00

by
Fred McCaleb

Here is some more of my collection of Ala. history. Fred McCaleb

BANKSTON CHURCH OF CHRIST--The Bankston Church of Christ was built in 1940 on
property adjoining the Bankston Cemetery. G. S. "Ned" Smith and Dr. J.T.
weathers were the elders of this early church. In May 1914 the first series of
meetings was conducted by Bro. C.T. Cannon of Rocky, Okla.
The annual Easter singing had its beginning at that church in 1916. The church
building was destroyed by a storm in the spring of 1932, and the new building
was erected at the present site on the Southern Railroad near the old water
tank. Mrs. Lorenzo Michael selected the first song, "We'll Work Till Jesus
Comes," that was sung after the new building was completed.
Some of the early elders of the church were Doc Hollingsworth, Bus
SHollingsworth, Ed Spiller, R.S. Smith and Dr. J.T. Weathers.
Among the ministers who have served are the following: Wiley Hollingsworth, Bro.
Baker, S.W. Thompson, C.W. Duncan, J.D. Jones, C.T. Cannon, Chester Honeycutt,
Bob Gray, C.W. Lewis, Chaarles Wheeler, Bro. Guance, Bro. Crowder, Bro.
Gossett, Bro. Fite, Bro. McCluskey, Bro. Price, Bro. Freeman, and Bro. Wagner.

BERRY CHURCH OF CHRIST--The Berry Church of Christ started meeting in the store
of Mrs. Oliver C. "Granny" Dobbs in the early 1900s. The Church was officially
organized in 1911, and some of the charter members were Mrs Oliver Dobbs, J.R.
Dobbs, O.C. Dobbs, J.D. Dobbs, Sam Dobbs, Mr. & Mrs. Cap Shepherd, Mrs. C.H.
Pinion, Mr. & Mrs Caager Shepherd, Mrs. Cardle Stewart, Mr.& Mrs. Mose Bailey,
Mr. Lump Smith, Mr & Mrs. Joe B. Johnson and Mr. & Mrs. Fenton Anthony.
A partial list of the preachers gives the following men: Chaarlie Wheeler, Frank
Baker, O.C. Dobbs, G.A. Dunn, J.B. Nelson and Gus Nichols.

FAYETTE CHURCH OF CHRIST--The congregation of the Church of Christ was begun
earlier than the year 1923. By this year there were about 15 members who were
meeting in the Fayette County Court House for worship. John R. Fowler was the
leader of the group.
In the latter part of 1923, C.R. Nichol from Clifton, Texas, conducted a revival
meeting which resulted in two additions. Soon after this meeting a movement was
started to raise funds to erect a suitable building in which to meet to
worship. After many business meetings were held the work was finally started
which resulted in the building on Temple Avenue.
Not long after the completion of the building, W.B. Hardeman of Henderson Tenn.,
was engaged to hold a meeting and this effort resulted in several additions.

Among the preachers who have sercved the Fayette Church of Christ are the
following: C.R. Brewer, G.C. Brewer, Gus Dunn,Jr., Gus Dunn, Sr., John T.
Hinds, Foy Wallace, Jr., Jack Hackworth, LeRoy Brownlow, H.A. Dixon, Willis
Jernigan, G.K. Wallace, Chester Estes, Flavil Nichols, J.G. Pounds, J.D.
Davidson, G.L. Mann, Bobby Cheatom, and Curtis W. Posey.
In the early 1950s the church added an educational building, joining the back of
the main church building and in 1957 they completed a lovely brick pastorium.
Edsel Burleson, Don McWhorter

HOUSH'S CHAPEL CHURCH OF CHRIST--Housh's Chapel Church of Christ was begun in
1945 with the following activce and inacticve members: Mr. & Mrs. John Sims,
Miss Bernice Sims, Mr. & Mrs. Ormand Sims, Mr. & Mrs Whitson, Miss Clara
Whitson, Mr. Cephas Whitson, Mr. Deward Whitson, Mr. Jason Whitson, Miss Ola
Whitson, Mr. & Mrs Dalton Hubbert, and Mrs. Morgan Kirkley.
Mr. Belton Whitson and son Deward were the leaders in the Church's activities,
but in 1946, both were killed in a well cave-in. After this tragedy Mr. Cogar
Hubbert of Hubbertville and Mr. Clarence Ehl and family of New River began
meeting with the church to help with the various activities. The membership was
approximately 40, with only seven of the charter members meeting there; the
average attendance was approximately sixty.
Some of the ministers who have assisted this church follow: Bro. Pervie Nichols,
Bro. Marshall Wyers, Bro. Wiley Hollingsworth, Bro. Wiley Herren, Bro. Aaron
Herren, Bro. Charlie Dunn, Bro. Ray Duncan, Br. Curtis W. Posey, Bro. Dale
Buckley, Bro. Randy Jernigan, Bro. Wayne Jackson, Bro. Charles Brown, and Bro.
Windell Fikes.

HOWARD CHURCH OF CHRIST--In 1929, the Howard Church of Christ was organized and
a building was erected in 1931.
The charter members were as follows: Mr. & Mrs. Austin Sawyers, Mr. & Mrs. P.B.
Hendon, Mr. & Mrs. L.W. Herron, Mr. & Mrs. Hollie Studdard, Mr. & mrs Frank
Herron, Mr. & Mrs. Otto Alexander, Mr. & Mrs. Grady Latham, and Mr. & Mrs. Ulys
Latham.
The following ministers have served the church: C.A. Wheeler, C.M. Geer, Sam
Gant, Gus Nichols, G.A. Dunn, Chester Estes, J.G. Pounds, W.R. Willcutt, A.M.
Plyler, C.V. Alexander, and Aaron Herron.

PEA RIDGE CHURCH OF CHRIST--The pea Ridge Church of Christ was established in
1911 with the following charter members: Mr. & Mrs. Ben panter, Mr. & Mrs.
Woodard Panter, Mr. & Mrs. Charlie Panter, Mr. & Mrs. Richard Panter, Mr. Doc
Panter, Mr. & Mrs. Tom Key, Miss Roxy Panter, Mr. Ben Panter, Miss Della
Panter, Mr. Ben Panter, and Mr. Jim Madison.
Some who served the church as preachers are as follows: O.C.Dobbs, Gus Nichols,
Charlie Nichols, Sid Cannon, R.L. Willcutt, Carey Nichols, Bobby Gray, Avery
Fike, John McCluskey, Edsel Burleson, Carlos Killingsworth, and Bryce Ellis.
The Elders of the Church were Mr. Richard Panter and Mr. Tom Key, who had served
continuously from 1918 to 1959.

HUBBERTVILLE CHURCH OF CHRIST--This church was first organized in 1926 with the
following as chaarter members: John A. Hubbert, Wiley Perry, John A.
Hollingsworth, Curvey Anderson, Fenton Anthony, Tom McArthur, S.N. Lawrence,
A.J. Hubbert, Henry McDonald, and W.H. Aldridge.
Those that served as Elders were Wiley Perry, John M. Hubbert, and Curvey
Anderson.
A new building was erected in 1952, and the charter members for this
reorganization were as follows: W.H. Aldridge, Thomas McArthur, G. E. Hubbert,
Verdo Johnson, W. Orville McCaleb, Clyde Hubbert, Monroe Stough, Cleburn
Hubbert, E.L. Hubbert, Floyd Tucker and Vester Anderson.
The preachers from 1926 to 1959 were the following: Bro. C.F. Cannon, Bro. Gus
Nichols, Bro. Charlie Nichols, Bro. C.C. Nichols, Bro. G.A. Dunn, Bro. Jack
Hackworth, Bro. Houston Haney, Bro. John Kelly, Bro. Charlie Wheeler, Bro. Jim
Wade, Bro. Chester Estes, Bro. W.A. Black, Bro. J.D. Jones, Bro. L.A. Fowler,
Bro. Winfred Clark, Bro. C.W. Posey, Bro. Vancerbilt, Bro. Plato Black, Bro.
E.L. Hubbert, Bro. Johnnie Payne, Bro. Garland Cross, Bro. G.L. Mann, Bro.
Carlos Killingsworth, Bro. Oneal Smelser, Bro. Wiley Herren, Bro. Bryce Ellis,
Bro Bobby Cheatem, Bro. Jimmie Tolle, Bro. Windell Fikes, Bro. Frank Farriss,
Bro Wiley Hollingsworth, Bro. Hal P. McDonald, Bro Marshall Wyers, and Bro.
Edward Craddock.

NEW RIVER CHURCH OF CHRIST--The New River Church of Christ was organized in
1886. Some of the charter members were as follows: Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Randolph,
Mr. & Mrs. Virgil Randolph, Mr. & Mrs. John Tyler McCaleb, Mr. & Mrs. Joe
Holbrooks, Mr. & Mrs. John Hollingsworth, and Mr. & Mrs. Jim Wade.
The church was built by Mr. John Tyler McCaleb except for $18.00 that was given
by Mr. Jim Wade.
The following ministers served at the church up to 1959: Jeremiah Randolph,
Virgil Randolph, Green Haley, Joe Holbrooks, C.A. wheeler, W.A. Tipton, Sammie
Carson, Howell Taylor, Willie Loyd, Gus Nichols, Cephas Cannon, O.C. Dobbs,
Houston Haney, Willett Black, Vanderbilt Black, Wiley Hollingsworth, Edsel
Burleson, Marshall Wyers, and Paul D. Murphy.
Mr. John Tyler McCaleb was an elder of the church as long as he lived, from 1886
to 1918. John Hubbert was an elder from 1918 to 1929.

Notes from the Christian Advocate 10 Oct 1867

2008-01-24T16:44:00.000-08:00

CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE OCT. 10, 1867 P.816-817

Submitted by

Fred McCaleb

Report from Ala.

Millport, Jones County, Ala.

Elder J. Fanning. On last evening, I reached here from attending a meeting at
Berea, some 35 miles east of this point in Fayette County. The meeting begin on
Friday night and continued until Thursday night, the result of which was 46
accessions; 36 by confession and baptism, 10 otherwise. It was indeed a triumph
of Truth over ignorance and sectarianism. Bro. J. Randolph came to our aid and
was the chief speaker. To the Lord be the praise for ever and ever and ever.
Amen. There are 2 congregations of the brethren in the vicinity numbering some
50 members each, known as the Luxapallilia and Antioch Churches. To these
churches there were some 15 accessions last year by my humble labor. Here is a
large field for Gospel laborers. I have calls continually so destitute to
preach, but owing to my extreme poverty, I am compelled to work on the farm. An
incalculable amount of good could be done in this country had we time to devote
to preaching. I am the only public man (that is preaching) laboring for the
Bible in 35 miles of this point. May the great Head of the Body bless you dear
brothers in every good and wise work. Yours in the hope of bliss eternally.
Lorenzo Dow Randolph.

Dublin, Fayette Co. Ala. Sept. 1867

Bro. Fanning: I have not seen your face and heard you sing "Jesus my all to
heaven has gone" with the chorus, "Die in the Field of Battle," since about the
year 1834 or 35, I think in Blount County, Ala. What a change and what a growth
in Christ we do see in this great reformation. In the last 30 years in getting
back to an apostolic backing. If the change and progress has been so
significantly triumphant over Roman Catholicism and Sectarianism in 30 years,
what triumphs may we expect to see in the apostolic teaching in the next 30
years.
My father, Elisha Randolph, organized many little congregations in North
Alabama, but for the want of ministerial labor (a thing which we have ever been
so destitute in this part of Ala.) some lingered, but there has ever stood a few
firm and "established" brethren with but little apostasy. I have ever lived in
Alabama, and have not seen a more flattering prospect. Though the present is
doing much good here, had we the necessary labor.
If there is a devoted brother in Tenn. seeking a field for ministerial labor, he
can find it here. Should there be a preaching brother traveling the Byler Road,
they will respectfully be received at the church, Berea, five miles off the
road west. The Brethren have well nigh completed a comfortable house for
worship, at the place, framed 30 by forty feet.

Brothers Jeremiah and Lorenzo D. Randolph commenced a meeting at this place on
Friday night before the first Lord's Day, inst., which lasted 7 successive days
and nights. The results of their labor was 42 immersions and 6 reclaimed,
making 48 in all. To the good Lord and his unerring truth be all the praise.
The brethren at this place meet regularly for worship, Bible classes and vocal
music. Worshipers now 110. By exchange I read the Gospel Advocate. I am always
lit up with the spirit.

Sincerely and devotedly,
Simeon Randolph

Gospel Advocate Jan. 1868 page 5

Minutes of the Ala. and Miss. Co-operation meeting Columbus, Miss. March 9

A committee was appointed to prepare a plan of operation and co-operation. The
committee composed of J.M. Pickens, Alex Elliott, Jeremiah Randolph, O.C.
Bumpass, and S.N.D. Hill.

Gospel Advocate no 12 1868 p 1092

Providence, Ala. Oct 28, 1868

Bro. L.D. Randolph was called and employed to preach and speak by the brethren
at Antioch, Luxapalila, Berea, and George Creek churches within their bounds
beginning the 2nd Lord's Day, inst. The immediate result of his labors is 82
accessions. So the army of the faithful, some 40 by confession and baptism and
42 from the sectarian churches, among who was some of the 1st class minds of
our country. This is, indeed, a great achievement for the good cause, in our
down trodden, sectarian zed land where ignorance, error, detraction, and
misrepresentation of the grossest type, have been to contend with. But truth is
mighty and will prevail.
The brethren of the above churches met in co-operation at Berea Church on Friday
evening before the 2nd Lord's day,inst. The meeting continued until the Tuesday
night following. The immediate result was 12 additions to the congregation.
The preaching and brethren present were Elders J. Randolph, J. Taylor, E.C.
Barnes?, L.D. Randolph, with the elders of the church, John Tyler McCaleb &
L.D. Randolph.
The report of said committee was, that the sum of $300 was subscribed in good
faith and that Bro. L.D. Randolph was called and kindly requested to dedicate
so much of his time- say from the first of June to the close of the year for
said amount, which he agreed to do. J.F.M. Kizer

Oct. 29, 1891 P. 681

New River Oct, 1891
We have just held a big meeting which resulted in 26 additions. Bro. Jerry
Randolph did the preaching.
White McCaleb

March 13, 1889 p.174

Sister Minerva Randolph was born Dec. 26, 1828, obeyed the gospel under the
labors of Bro Jesse Sewell in White County, Tn. during the year 1845, departed
this life 26 dec. 1859.

Mount Olive Church of Christ

2008-01-24T12:23:00.000-08:00

Fred McCaleb

Mt. Olive is located in the western part of Fayette County, Al. on highway 107
about 10 northwest of Fayette, Al. It was begun before 1900 by Bert Barnes who
invited preachers to preach to his neighbors in the yard of his home. Later
they held meetings in "brush arbors." The first old Mt. Olive church building
was a wood framed building with home made wooden benches. It was built about
1900, and the first elders of the church were Bert Barnes and Taylor Fowler.
The charter members were as follows: Mr. & Mrs. Bert Barnes, Mr. and Mrs. Jim
Mobley, Mr. and Mrs. Jimmie Collins, Mr. and Mrs.Doc Hyder, Mr. and Mrs. Hardy
Housh, Mr. and Mrs. Taylor Fowler, a Harper family, a Dobbs family and Mr. and
Mrs. Murry V. Stewart. Some of the older preachers of this church were Jeremiah
Randolph, Joe Holbrooks, R.L. Taylor, Jimmie Woods, preacher Stansberry and
others.
The present building is a brick building located on highway 107. It is about a
mile from the old wooden Mt. Olive church building which was located on a
gravel road that ran from where the present building is on east by Shady Grove
Church and to present county road 51 on the east end. The present (1995) brick
building is the second building built on the new site. The first meeting held
in the building at the new site began July 4, 1947. The elders in 1959 were
Carey C. Nichols, who also preached, and Lou Allen Fowler, a preacher, who was
a son on one of the first elders, Taylor Fowler.

My dad (H MCCaleb) and I attended Mt. Olive in the 1930s. My dad was a long time
member there, attending from 1931 until his death in 1958. We walked to church
on Sundays over the gravel road. Bert Barns was an outstanding member. He was
old and walked with the help of a walking cane. He would point the cane at one
as he explained the scriptures and argued the Bible. My best summer wearing
apparel was a white pair of pants and white shirt. Vistus Fowler, the oldest
daughter of L.A. Fowler, taught a Sunday School class under an oak tree. She
was also a Fayette County school teacher. During my attendance at Mt. Olive,
the two main preachers were Lou Allen Fowler and Carey Nichols. One would
preach one Sunday and the other the next. These preachers continued to do this
all their lives until they died in the 1970s. I don't know if the church ever
paid them anything very much. Lou Allen had a large family, mostly girls. Both
Lou Allen and Carey worked hard in the fields and at odd jobs they could pick
up to help support their families. Sometimes they got to run a "big meeting" at
one of the other churches in Fayette or surrounding counties and earned maybe
five or ten dollars for the service. They loved to preach and try to explain
the gospel. Sometimes another neighboring preacher of Fayette County, or some
other place, would come in to run a big "summer meeting" in August when the
crops were laid by. The house was lit by kerosene burning lamps for the night
services. The lamps were suspended from the overhead ceiling, and they were of
a little fancier brand and had bigger globes than the simple ones used in the
simple home of the time. Electricity had come to Fayette County by the time the
church was moved to highway 107. Bert Barnes generally kept the preachers that
ran the "big meetings." He lived across the road and down the hill from the
church. He and the preachers liked to talk religion. At that time families
would invite you to go home with them, eat dinner, and talk.
I, Fred McCaleb, became a member of the church at Mt. Olive about 1934 during
one of the summer "big meetings." I have forgotten who was running the meeting,
but I think it was Lou Allen Fowler. I was baptised at the Dubose pond. The
country churches had no indoor baptismal's at that time. Baptism's were mostly in
a nearby river.
Fred McCaleb revised edition

Gus Nichols

2008-01-20T12:18:00.000-08:00

by

W.A. Black

Gus Nichols was born in Walker County, Alabama, January 12, 1892. He was the oldest of ten children, and did not have the opportunity to obtain much formal schooling (yet he is a well-educated man). In 1913 he married Matilda Frances Brown, whom he says is the "power behind the throne" in his work. With her assistance he entered Alabama Christian College at Berry in 1919; but most of his education has been achieved through private study.

He began preaching in June 1917, and has baptized approximately 5,000 people. He has preached in 17 states, holding meetings for some of the largest churches of Christ in the nation. His busy schedule includes holding eight or ten meetings out of about three hundred calls per year. He averages fifteen to eighteen sermons and classes each week, including a daily thirty-minute radio program. He is the author of five previous books.

The high esteem in which he is held where he lives at Jasper, Alabama, may be judged by a brief editorial in that city's newspaper (''The Mountain Eagle'') on March 5, 1953, as follows:

"Twenty years ago . . . Gus Nichols accepted a call to the Fifth Avenue Church of Christ in Jasper. That was in January, 1933. For twenty years Gus Nichols has given practically his entire time to preaching the gospel to the people of Jasper and Walker County. During that score of years he has comforted the bereaved, and has rejoiced with those who have recovered from serious illness or met with good fortune.

"In his bigness of spirit, unhurried way, and love for his fellow men and women, this man represents much that is finest in Jasper.

Of the nearly one hundred debates which he has conducted, the Nichols-Weaver is also in print. He has helped many other preachers prepare for debates, and believes that honorable controversy is an effective means of presenting the truth. I have often heard him say, " Truth is like gold: the more you rub it, the brighter it will shine."

History of the Church of Christ in North Alabama

2007-11-03T18:42:00.000-07:00

Compiled by Leo Creel and Quinton Nigg

The Church of Christ has no creed but the Bible and has no organization larger than the local congregation. Its officers are the Elders and Deacons. The first church in the Jackson County, Alabama area was organized in Antioch, near Bridgeport in 1815. James ANDERSON was one of the first ministers of this church. He began to preach in 1827. The Elders were Elisha M. PRICE, William KING, Andrew RUSSELL. It is said the Antioch Church was started through the preaching of Barton W. STONE, E. D. MOORE, and their associates. This no doubt is the first Church of Christ established in Alabama.

In 1846, the Antioch Church moved to Rocky Spring, the first building was of hewn logs, 20x30 feet, and had a stone chimney. It was destroyed by Northern soldiers during the Civil war. The following ministers preached in this house: Reese JONES, Tolbert FANNING, James and Andrew BILINGSLEY, Madison LOVE, and SIKES all from Tennessee, and Dr. HOOKER of Georgia. George Washington CONE and Washington BACON preached here before the Civil War.

In the early part of the 19^th Century, about the time Alabama became a territory in 1817 and was admitted to the union, 14 Dec 1819, the families of James Allen WILLIAMS, the SELF, RANDOLPH, SANDLIN and others migrated from Virginia. They came by way of the Cumberland Gap, through Huntsville, crossed the Tennessee River at Guntersville, and settled in the area later known as Hanceville, Alabama.

In 1817 Blountsville area Alexander WILLIAMS and Thomas BILLINGSLEY were in Hanceville.

In 1819 the Indian Territory of Mississippi which was removed by the U.S. Army to North East Blount County. Before then you had to have a permit to even cross Indian Territory.

Prior to 1820 there were members of the Church of Christ meeting in areas around Hanceville and the surrounding towns in Cullman County, Alabama.

In 1825 James Allen WILLIAMS married Jemina BILLINGSLEY. They went to Jones Valley Courthouse in Birmingham to be married. He was the first preacher in the area to be given a licence to marry people around 1846.

Soon after the arrival of the Allen WILLIAMS family from Virginia in 1838 to what is now know as Hanceville, a log church building was erected a mile north of Hanceville. Allen WILLIAMS and Brother GIBSON were the first ministers.

In 1897 a frame building was erected one half mile east of the old railroad.

In 1839 there was a Log Cabin built and used for the church services and records show there were spelling bee’s held. It was referred to in records as the Christian Church.

In 1840 Hopewell Baptist Church was organized and met in the Christian Church building. It was called Baptist Church of Christ.

In 1859 a deed to some property and a building was erected for a Christian Church. Churches of Christ continued to worship until 1880.

In 1880 there was a wood frame building erected at the corner of Blountsville Road and Edmonds Road. Preachers from this time were, J.H. HORTON, R.E. CREEL, Pryde HINTON, Howard HORTON, Wayne CHAPPELL, and Dewy SIMS.

Sulphur Springs Church was built in 1894-1895 at corner of Blountsville and Edmonds Street. The log cabin was sold at this time for $50.

In 1949 the congregation moved into the new brick building located in Hanceville. There were 76 members with an average attendance of 95. Their preacher then was Leo PLYLER. The following preachers have been gone out from this congregation to preach the gospel: Henry HORTON (deceased), M.A. CREEL (deceased), Pryde E. HINTON, A.C. KNIGHT, R.E. CREEL, Floyd HORTON (deceased), Howard HORTON, and Dewey SIMS.

Preachers from this time were, J.H. Horton, M. A. CREEL, R.E. Creel, Pryde HINTON, Floyd HORTON, Howard HORTON Wayne CHAPPELL, and Dewy SIMS.Many members of these families and the BILLINGSLEYS and WILLIAMS migrated west to Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas establishing Churches of Christ where ever they settled.

Mime WILLIAMS a descendant of the BILLINGSLEY and WILLIAMS families passed away
in 1992. She was in her 90’s and was an English Professor at Abileen Christian College.

The Northside Church of Christ in Hanceville, Alabama had its beginning August 21, 1970, with eight families meeting in the home of James and Laura HARRIS in Hanceville, Alabama. Jerry THOMPSON was the treasure, G.W. SELVAGE was the song leader, Jack MITCHELL and James HARRIS were teachers and U.L. Allen was the preacher at the time. At the time there were about 25-30 present at the first service. Brother U.L. ALLEN started preaching for Northside September 6, 1970. Thanks to the faith, encouragement and foresight of Brother ALLEN who sold his bonds to later build the building.

In 1971 U.L. ALLEN loaned money to buy the property for the church building and he was the one who named Northside Church of Christ. Five months and eight days later in February 1971, they moved into the new building. U.L. ALLEN did the preaching for eighteen mounts with no pay.

Open house was held February 14, 1971. Brother Allen continued with us until September 20, 1971, when Brother Dewey Sims began preaching for Northside.

Brothers R.E. CREEL, G.W. SELVAGE and Dewey SIMS served as Elders of the North Side congregation. Brother SIMS continued preaching until June 14, 1978.

Brother Randy LYONS worked with us from July 12, 1976 through November 11, 1979. Brother Roger LATHAM filled in from November 18, 1979 until January 13, 1980. Brother Tommy VERNON, who is presently working with us, began work on January 27, 1980.

Preachers and wives at Northside were, U.L. and Dorothy ALLEN, Dewey and Myrle SIMS, Randy and Annette LYON, Tommy and Frankie VERNON, Mike and Donna RAINS, Guy and Shirley HESTER, Lawrence and Patsy WILSON, Tom and Darlene HORTON, Larry and Brenda PRUITT, Chris BARNETT, Eddie and Dean DICKEY, Joe and Karen MITCHELL, Jon and Kim CREEL and Larry and Brenda PRUITT is again preaching his second term.

At the present time, 2007, Northside’s minister is Larry PRUITT. The Elders are, Robert CREEL, Durwood DEAN, Allen GAMBLE, Bill PATE and Larry PRUITT. The deacons are, Don CREEL, Joe MITCHELL, Ed ROBERSON and Peanut SMITH.

More to follow at a later date.

History of the Northside Church of Christ

2007-11-03T10:10:00.000-07:00

by
Leo Creel

The Northside Church of Christ in Hanceville, Alabama had its beginning August 21, 1970, with eight families meeting in the home of James and Laura HARRIS in Hanceville, Alabama. Jerry THOMPSON was the treasure, G.W. SELVAGE was the song leader, Jack MITCHELL and James HARRIS were teachers and U.L. Allen was the preacher at the time. At the time there were about 25-30 present at the first service. Brother U.L. ALLEN started preaching for Northside September 6, 1970. Thanks to the faith, encouragement and foresight of Brother ALLEN who sold his bonds to later build the building.

Open house was held February 14, 1971. Brother Allen continued with us until September 20, 1971, when Brother Dewey Sims began preaching for Northside.

Brothers R.E. CREEL, G.W. SELVAGE and Dewey SIMS served as Elders of the Northside congregation. Brother SIMS continued preaching until June 14, 1978.

At the present time Larry PRUITT is the minister. The Elders are, Robert CREEL, Durwood DEAN, Allen GAMBLE, Bill PATE and Larry PRUITT. The deacons are, Don CREEL, Joe MITCHELL, Karl PRICE, Ed ROBERSON and Peanut SMITH.

Piney Grove Christian Church

2007-10-13T13:02:00.000-07:00

Piney Grove Christian Church is located southeast of Falkville on Piney Grove Road. According to Watson’s History and The History of the Christian Churches in the Alabama Area by Mrs. Ethel Patillo, the church was orgainized in 1839. It is accepted to be one of the oldest Christian Churches in the state. Among its first leaders were Peter Couch, Randolph Couch, John S. Edwards, Hiram Smith, and Miles Hay. The first preacher at this church was probably done by B.F. Hall, Tolbert Fanning, David Speigel, or William Stringer.

Land for the first church was donated by the Hiram Smith’s. Watson says, “The Harts and Spiegels were members of old Hickory Log Church at Lacon…before joining the brethren at Piney Grove, or New Hope Campground, as it was at that time. Miss Annie King, a granddaughter of both families, relates that they were of Disciple origin, through records do no exist of a church at Lacon.

Falkville Church of Christ

2007-10-13T11:11:00.000-07:00

Rhona H. Summerford

Falkville Church of Christ was established after Brother Rex Turner conducted a tent meeting in the summer of 1938.

This group first met in the home of Miss Sallie King. Later a building was moved from Cullman County and located on a lot back of the present building. This was in the 1940’s. Some of the early members of the church were the King Family, the E.F. Powell Family, and the Adlie Walling Family.

The property where the church is now located was purchased in 1962 from the Charlie Howse Family. The house in which the Howse Family lived became the first church parsonage. This house was then torn down and the new or present church building was constructed.

The church is active today and has a church van or bus and has a large number of members.

Falkville Christian Church

2007-10-13T10:59:00.000-07:00

Rhona H. Summerford

Dr. A.C. Henry, physician/minister, lived in Falkville in the 1870’s, but the church was not organized until September 24, 1903, when S.P. and O.P. Speegel held a meeting. There were 37 members and a Sunday school of 57.

The lot for the church was purchased from E.L. and Leona C. Hays, for $100. S.P. Speegle, J.D. Wallace, M.V. Parker, Dr. W.M. Stringer, and John J. Wilhite were trustees.

Earliest records date from 1916, but early information comes from the “Alabama Christian.” In 1908 James Curtis, evangelist, held a short meeting in the Methodist Church, baptizing in Flint Creek. Evangelist H.G. Sedinger noted in 1909 that there was a nucleus for a fine congregation. S.M. Wilhite, preaching for Cedar Plains and Piney Grove, wrote in 1910 that there were five to eight members, a beautiful lot, but no building. By 1911 John G. Boone reported that over $500. had been raised for construction. Shortly after, the building was erected.

Falkville had irregular preaching for many years. Some early ministers were J.H. Hill, E.F. Corley, L.F. Abbott, Noble Edwards, C. Howard Matheny, E.N. Anthony, J.H. Gardner. W.M. Goodwin, T.P. Sharp, J.H. Havener, T.V. Hatchett, O.P. Speegle, W.O. Henderson, Paul E. Walker, O. Paul Walker, Ray McCulloch. and James H. Henderson, 1958 until the Falkville congregation joined with Piney Grove congregation in the building of the sanctuary adjacent to the old Piney Grove building.

On February 5, 1961, the church united with Piney Grove

Hartselle Church of Christ

2007-10-13T10:09:00.001-07:00

The Hartselle Church of Christ had its beginning in 1920, with 17 charter members. Bro Oscar Norton was the first preacher. Proberty was purchased on the Rock and Hammett Streets and a building erected in Sept 1920. The church met at that location until 1945, when land was purchased on Sparkman Street and a building was completed in November, 1947. The membership had grown to approximately 100. The dedication services for the new building was held on November 16, 1947. Frank Andrews was the minister.

The church continued to grow in the 1950’s, with A.L. Butler, George Marshall, W.O. Norton, Roy Fudge, and Charles Stidham as ministers.

Elders in 1957 were E.H. Bennett, J.M. Dunnaway, J.F. Kelly, H.L. Slate, and L.T. Wagnon.

A renovation of the church building was completed in August 1960. A third, larger building program was completed in August 1972, with a membership of 300 members. Other ministers since then have been Charles Curtis, Hoyt Nelson, Charles Balcom, and Philip Hines, the present minister who preacher his first sermon at Hartselle on September 1, 1980.

The church continues to grow under the leadership of four elders, Tom Sneed, Dee Proctor, Bob Smith and Talnadge Reynolds. Another building project was completed in 1973. The church has missionaries in Romania and Nigeria and sponsors medical mission trips to Romania each year.

Cedar Plains Christian Church

2007-10-13T08:55:00.000-07:00

Pernie Morris

Cedar Plains is one of the historic churches of Morgan County, located five miles west of Falkville. It is probably the oldest Christian Church in the state of Alabama with continuous service. Dr. A.C. Henry pioneer preacher, preached there in 1874 and several years afterward. The church was able to furnish provisions for him and his family and Brother William Wood proposed to teach his children for half price.

Early records were destroyed when the home of W.P. Wallace burned, making it difficult to state exact dates of early events. I have known that in the fall of 1839, William M. Hackworth made their confessions and were immersed. In 1849 or 1850, another building was built for the use of church and school. Before there was a building meetings were held in the dwelling.

One of the early preachers was Jessie T. Wood Sr., called the “Walking Bible”. The land for the church was given by J.T. and Mary Jane Wood. Between 1880 and 1884, a frame building was erected about twenty feet north of the log building. W. O. Henderson returned home in 1947. The Falkville Christian Unity was formed of Piney Grove and Cedar Plains Christian Churches. They bought a house in Falkville for a parsonage.

On April 24, 1955, the church building was destroyed by a tornado. Work on a new building began in July. Most of the labor was voluntary. Money from insurance, sale of the parsonage, and contributions enabled the church to be paid for when dedicated October 14, 1956. Since then, many improvements have been made. Brother Jim Henderson is currently pastor.

Hubbertville Church of Christ

2007-08-02T13:12:00.000-07:00

Faye Dodd

Before the Hubbertville Church of Christ was built, many of the families in the community attended church in the Hubbertville School or went to Berea or New River. Most people walked to church when the weather was good. If not, they would go in a wagon or buggy. Nocle McArthur Hubbert remembers having only one pair of dress shoes. She and others would walk barefooted to save wearing out their shoes when coming to church at New River or Berea. Just before getting there, they would brush the dust off their feet and put on their shoes.

Curt M. Hubbert deeded the land for the Hubbertville Church of Christ on December 7, 1926. Frank Hubbert now has the old deed. Tom McArthur made the deed as he was a Notary Public and a Justice of the Peace. Everyone who had timber gave some for the lumber to build a wooden frame church building. A large potbellied stove was used for heat. In the winter when the weather was real cold, the men would put the benches around the heater so that the people could stay warm. The first gospel meeting was held by Brother C.A. Wheeler of Jasper doing the preaching. The Hubbertville Church started out with 27 members in 1927, but by 1937, they had 47 members. Some of the preachers who held meetings or preached once a month were C.A. Wheeler, Cephas Cannon, W.A. Black, J.P. Pounds, G.L. Mann, V.P. Black, Gus Nichols, Houston Haney, Wiley Hollingsworth and Hal P. McDonald.

One time Brother Hal P. McDonald was holding a meeting for a few nights at Hubbertville. On one of the nights, it was coming a storm and the weather was so cold that everyone stayed home except for the preach and Tom McArthur. Everyone had to walk to church at that time. Tom McArthur got the full sermon that night even though he and the preacher were the only ones there. After the sermon was over, Tom asked the preacher why he preached the whole sermon just to him. The preacher said to Mr. McArthur, “If you had only one cow to come to the barn, you would feed her wouldn’t you?” Mr. McArthur replied, “Yes, but I wouldn’t give her the whole bale of hay.” The first church records of paying for a preacher to hold a week’s meeting was in 1940 when Gus Nichols was paid $50. for a week.

The first church building was erected at Hubbertville in 1927. People who were responsible for getting the church started were Curt Hubbert, John Hubbert, Andrew “Babe” Hubbert, G.E. Hubbert, Seth Lawrence, Vaughn McCaleb, Tom McArthur, Wiley Perry, Fenton Anthony, Curvey Anderson, John A. Hollingsworth, and Thomas Hollingsworth. The first church elders were Fenton Anthony and Wiley Perry. The first deacons were J.C. Anderson, W.A. Aldridge and Thomas Hollingsworth. The last funeral held at the first Hubbertville Church of Christ building was that of John Hubbert. It was held on January 4, 1952, and it was conducted by Brother Gus Nichols.

In 1952, a new brick Church of Christ building was erected at Hubbertville. Brother Curtis W. Posey drew the blueprints for the building. Reuburr Bryant laid the blocks and bricks for $960. Men, women and children all worked at whatever they could when the building was being erected. People who had jobs during the day would go home, eat supper and come back to work on the church building until bed time. Frank Hubbert was only 15 years old at the time, but he helped with the building. He and Virgil Hubbert were on a high scaffold one day putting up ceiling tiles when one end of the scaffold gave way. Both men fell, but Frank’s arm was broken in two places. Church was held in the Hubbertville School Lunchroom while the new building was being constructed.

After the building was erected, church members starting meeting every Sunday. They had previously had preaching once a month. After they paid off their loan to build the church building, they hired a full-time preacher. Some of the preachers who have served at Hubbertville Church of Christ in later years include Curtis Estes, O.C. Dobbs, Charley Nichols, John McCluskey, Bill Lynn, Cecil Corkren, Tony Demonbreum, Rayford Harkness, Bryan Howell and Gilbert Behel.

Most of the early church members have gone to their reward, but the church has been a wonderful help to young and old through the years.

Cullman Church of Christ

2007-07-31T13:05:00.001-07:00

Our History

A few members from the Fourth Street church began the work on the east side of Cullman in 1954. On May 8, 1954, property was donated by Mrs. George Stahmer. On September 5, 1954 the first service was held with 119 present for Bible study and 135 for the 11 a.m. service. Through the years the following ministers have served the church: R.E. Creel, Louis Savage, James Winfred Clark, Charles Harvell, Charles Curtis, Jerry Humphries, Herschel McFarlan, James Pilgrim, D.Ellis Walker, Glenn Posey, Randy Owens and currently Ken Forrest.

The church grew and a larger building was needed. The building was completed in the early part of 1960. A beautiful building was completed in 1983. In 1980, the membership was 350 and in 2004, the membership had grown to 476. In 2006, the move was made into our current new building located at the intersection of Highway 157 and Childhaven Road.

History of Parrish Church of Christ

2007-07-31T12:50:00.001-07:00

The earliest historical record of the Parrish Church of Christ dates back to 1917 when the church was meeting in a one room school house on Main Street, down and across the street from where the First Baptist church building now stands. The Church was then composed of about ten members and a few children. The contribution averaged two to three dollars a week.

When the old school building was torn down around 1919 the church met in the Methodist church building when it was not in use. This arrangement lasted about six months until the Methodists had an extended revival which forced the church to move elsewhere. The church began to meet on Mr. A. J. White, Senior's front porch while construction took place on a new wooden meeting house. This location is on White Street across from the Methodist Church.

Brother Charlie Nichols was the first known regular preacher and Brother Wes Sanford the first known elder. Brother Will Nelson was appointed an elder and Brother George Courington a deacon around 1925. Each served faithfully for over forty years until their deaths.

At least two debates were held in the old wooden building in addition to many outstanding meetings. Brother Pride E. Henton drew an estimated crowd of four hundred in 1924. Of course more were outside the building than inside.

The church experienced gradual growth to about sixty members with an average weekly contribution of about forty-five dollars, when on September 23, 1947, the old wooden building burned. The church met at the community building until August 1, 1948, when a new block building was completed on the same site.

On March 27, 1971, land was purchased for a new building which was completed October 29, 1972. In the Spring of 1995 the entire auditorium was remodeled. In April of 2001 the church purchased land on the New Parrish/Oakman Hwy. We moved into a new buidling at 584 New Oakman Hwy in September 2004. Since moving in Sunday morning attendance has increased to an average of 150.

Preachers known to have served the church here on a regular basis include:

Charlie Nichols, Pride E. Henton, L.R. Wilson, Luther Weathers, John McCleskey, C. A. Wheeler, W. A. Black, S. F. Hester, J. G. Pounds, Sr., Rudolf Hunt, Harold Walton, Giles Hester, Garland Pounds Jr., Gerald Watt, Jerry Bramlett, Raymond Bush, Bobby Liddell, Kenneth Jones, James Brown (associate), and presently Scott McCown.

The Tidwell Chapel Church of Christ

2007-07-26T17:37:00.000-07:00

By Virginia Fikes

The building in the photo was moved from Old Clover Hill in the mid 1920’s and served as a meeting place for the school children and for the church. Sarah Jane Tidwell remembers when the move took place. They carried it about a mile over the road in the Tidwell community and which has remained the Tidwell Chapel Church of Christ ever since.

The Clover Hill church and school was located behind the Floyd Dodd house near the Sprinkle Cemetery. Many students in the area attended school there including students such as, Ada McCollum Box, Fred McCaleb and others.

Tidwell Chapel School only went through the sixth grade. Some of the teachers who taught there were Vester Hollingsworth, Ola Hollingsworth, Minnie Caddell Miles and Mr. Raymond Hiten. The school stopped meeting there when the Hubbertville School opened but the Church kept meeting and has met there ever since. The old building was replaced with a newer one in the late 1950’s.

The land where the Tidwell Chapel Church is sitting was donated by Perry Tidwell son of Eden and Louise Tidwell. Perry was a grandson so John Tidwell. John was born May 25, 1811 in Georgia. He married Malinda Armstrong in 1836. They raised a large family that makes up the Tidwell Community today. John died November 1, 1888.

The men in the photo are Harrison Tidwell, Frank Tidwell and Buster Roby. Church is located in Fayette County, Alabama.

West Palm Beach Church of Christ

2007-07-19T17:58:00.000-07:00

Minister Dan Jenkins

Note:
Even though this congregation is in Florida, Dan Jenkins has Alabama roots. He preached at Sandusky for years before going to West Palm Beach. He and his wife have done missionary work in the Fiji Island.

The church of Christ was begun in 33 A.D. The promise that Jesus of Nazareth made to establish it (Matthew 16:18) became a reality after His death, resurrection, and ascension into heaven. You can read about the beginning of His church in the book of Acts, chapter two, when about 3,000 became "charter members". The church continued to grow with people becoming part of it every day (Acts 2:47). When persecution arose the church spread from city to city (Acts 8:4). Those who were Christians arrived in new cities to establish new congregations, identical to the one in Jerusalem, in new places. The whole world soon knew about that church (Colossians 1:23).

Beginnings of the local congregation
The Palm Beach Lakes congregation began in 1923, when several Christians met in the home of sister Lena Eades on Okeechobee Road. By 1925, the group had grown so that with a gift of land from a brother Chamberlain, one of the members, a meeting house was erected on Conniston Road.

At Conniston Road
The first meeting in the new building was on September 23, 1925. It was an exciting time for the church. The first full-time preacher at Conniston Road was Henry Clay Geer.

On North Olive Avenue
As the congregation grew, there was a need for larger facilities. A gift of land from sister Bertie Walden and a $10,000 donation from sister Eades made possible the erection of a new building and home for the preacher at 811 North Olive Avenue. The first worship services were held in the building in June 1949, while Iverson L. Boles was the preacher. The organization of the church was made complete on April 12, 1964, with the selection of four men as elders: Jean McMasters, Hayward Milton, Don Spurlock, and Alvin Witt. A few months later, four deacons were appointed: Johnny Davis, Bob Haines, Jerry Hopkins and Paul Jordan.

On 36th Street
In June 1963, five acres were purchased on 36th Street in West Palm Beach, and on December 6, 1964, ground was broken for a new church plant. The total cost of construction was $250,000 plus $40,000 for the land. The new complex opened on July 18, 1965, with Bill Hatcher as the guest speaker. The congregation had 256 members and W. Ray Duncan served as evangelist.

William (Bill) C. Hatcher began his work with the congregation in 1968. In 1972, Larry Grizzell joined the staff as Bill's co-worker for about a year. The church continued to grow and in 1974, Dean Reynolds and Kerry Cain joined the work. In 1980, Bill Hatcher gave up pulpit work to write and teach. Glann Lee preached for almost eighteen months. Part of that time, Gary McMahan was a co-worker. In January 1982, Dan Jenkins moved here to help in personal work and began pulpit preaching in May 1982. In 1989, Joe Holland started working full-time for the church, and in 1990, Ron Brackett began working with special emphasis on youth and the educational program. In 1997, David Sproule took over the work with our youth program.

Jupiter Congregation Established
With many members living north of West Palm Beach, it was decided to start a congregation in the Jupiter area. In October 1984, forty-seven members started that work and moved into their new building in 1989.

On Leo Lane
On August 19, 1997, construction began on a new facility. Open house was held in the new building on October 25, 1998. Five men (Stan Bronson, Don Dodd, Joe Holland, Jerry Hopkins and Dan McLeod) oversee the church at this time. In 2004, Josh Blackmer started working with our young people. There are presently 23 deacons. The Palm Beach Lakes congregation has grown to its present 502 members.

You are encouraged to come visit us whenever you can. Our deepest desire is for all mankind to return to the Bible, and be part of the church that began nearly 2,000 years ago. Come and see firsthand that You can be a Christian without being part of a denomination.

Palisades Church of Christ

2007-07-19T17:43:00.000-07:00

Our History

To understand the history of the Palisades Church, we must go all the way back to the beginning of the Church of Christ in Birmingham:

As early as the 1870s, a small group was meeting with some regularity in homes in the young mining community, with occasional help from Justus McDuffie "Mack" Barnes from the Montgomery area.

Through the efforts of a tent meeting in the summer of 1895, G.A. Sharitts and others formed a more firmly established congregation of about 22 members which rented a third floor loft, known as Fox Hall, at the corner of what is now 4th Ave and 19th St N in downtown Birmingham. The congregation met there for the next 15 years with the support of Sharitts, Barnes, and John T. Lewis, who came to work with the congregation in November of 1907.

At that time, membership in the congregation numbered about 30. This number grew to about 100 in two years time. In September of 1909, the church bought a lot on Charles St in West End for $800 and built a frame building there at the cost of $2250. The congregation moved into the new building in 1910. This was the formal beginning of the West End Church of Christ.

In 1913, the West End church purchased a building from a Presbyterian church in Woodlawn. In doing so, they planted the Woodlawn church, now known as Roebuck Parkway, with Lewis serving both congregations from 1914-1917.

Beginning in 1921, the West End church matched dollar for dollar the efforts of the city's African-American Christians, which resulted in the establishment of more than eight congregations in Birmingham. Almost from the start, the West End congregation was a leader in the efforts to plant churches in the greater Birmingham area, continually promoting the heritage of congregational cooperation instilled in the hearts of its members by John T. Lewis and others.

In November of 1926, shortly after James Shepherd came to preach at West End (1926-1930), a building fund was established for a new West End church at Lomb Ave and 7th St SW, which was completed in 1927. Over the next decades, West End steadily grew, reaching a membership of approximately 500 in the late 1930's, and continued its efforts to promote growth in other area churches.

In 1941 West End purchased the Simpson Methodist church building at 7th Ave and 25th St N and established the Central Church of Christ, giving about 100 members to this new work. This new congregation began on June 1, 1941 and was self-supporting within a matter of weeks. In other efforts, West End provided members to help begin the Homewood and Shades Mountain congregations.

From the very beginning, Central became a thriving congregation, reaching a membership of about 700 in the early 1960's, and planting churches in Leeds, Montevallo, and Riverchase. One of Central's most well-known and influential works was Jimmy Fowler's "Messages from the Master", heard on radio stations in a number of cities.

By the late 1980's, it became apparent to both congregations that relocation would be necessary to effectively continue their ministries to the Birmingham community. After almost a half-century of separate existence, Central and West End decided to reunite to begin a new chapter, together in Christ. Property was purchased on Palisades Boulevard on the southern edge of Birmingham, and construction began on a building.

On December 2, 1990 the Palisades Church of Christ conducted its first service in the Shades Valley High School building. Edsel Burleson from West End, and Tom McLure of Central were co-ministers at Palisades until Burleson's passing in July 1992.

The congregation finally moved into its new building on July 5, 1992.

The Lord has blessed the Palisades Church with a rich, fruitful history. We know that He has even greater things in store for us in the future........... together in Christ.

History Of Vernon Church of Christ

2007-07-13T18:13:00.000-07:00

Vernon, Alabama

The congregation first began meeting in the old Lamar County High School building in 1917. Mr. J. A. Johnson was principal of the school (1917-1920). This building was in the same location of the present high school. Those meeting together were Mrs. J. A. (Orpha) Hankins and Mr. J. A. Johnson and their children. For several years Brother Johnson, being the only man, led singing, led prayer, taught the class and waited on the Lord’s table. Sister Hankins baked the bread and prepared the table.

About 1919, the group began using a building that was owned by the Freewill Baptist group. This building was on the corner of First Street SE and First Ave. SE. In 1919 Mr. and Mrs. George Jordan moved to Vernon and started worshipping with the Church. Soon thereafter Mr. and Mrs. Alec Johnson began worshiping in Vernon. In 1922, the old elementary school building was purchased for $1000.00 This building was located on the present site of the church. The building was modified on the first floor to create one large room for meeting purposes. The congregation was able to pay half of the money for acquiring the building and the rest was borrowed from Mr. John Wheeler who worshipped with the Bethel congregation. The loan was signed by: Orpha B. Hankins, J. A. Johnson and George Jordan. When the congregation repaid part of the loan, Brother Wheeler marked the note paid.

Mr. and Mrs. Murray Duke moved to Vernon in 1924 and began worshipping with the congregation.

Some of the first preachers to come and hold meetings were: A. D. Dyes, Gus Nichols, Gus Dunn and Charlie Wheeler, brother of John Wheeler.

The old elementary building was used as a meeting place for the Church until 1947, when it was torn down, and new building erected. A wing was added in 1962 and the entrance was remodeled in 1964. The present auditorium seating 400 was built in `1969 and changed the main entrance of the building to fact First Street South East.

Preachers who have been employed by the church have been: M. L. sexton, G. R. Dobbs, Maurice Land, Alan Barber, Wesley Thompson, Wade Johnson, Norman Parrish, Jack Black, Fred Webb, Tom Childers, Steve Short, and Larry Kilpatrick. by Barbara Woolbright Carruth, Sulligent, Alabama

A History of the

Vernon Church of Christ

The congregation of the Lord's church in Vernon began meeting in the old Lamar County High School Building in 1917. Mr. J. Andrew Johnson was principal of the school (1917-1920) and was one of the early leaders of the Vernon congregation. For several years brother Johnson, being the only male, led singing, led prayer, taught the Bible class, and waited on the Lord's table. Another leader of the congregation was Mrs. J.A. (Orpha) Hankins. It was sister Hankins who prepared the communion for each Sunday service. Sister Hankins was also responsible for washing and ironing the table cloth each week that covered the Lord's Supper.

Sometime around 1919, the Vernon congregation began using a building that was owned by the Freewill Baptist group. This building was on the corner of First Street S.E. and First Avenue S.E. Not many years later, because of growth in the congregation, a larger building was needed. In 1922 the old elementary school building was purchased for $1,000. This building was located on the present site of the church and was modified on the first floor to create one large room for meeting purposes. The upstairs part of the building was used by the Masonic Lodge where they met from time to time. The congregation was able to pay half of the money for acquiring the building and the remainder was borrowed from Mr. John Wheeler who worshiped with the Bethel church of Christ. When the congregation repaid part of the loan, brother Wheeler marked the note paid in full.

In the old, but new church building, slated pews were used for seating of the congregation. Also, during the early years of the congregation, only one cup was used in administering the fruit of the vine during the Lord's Supper. Although the congregation met every Lord's Day, it was only once a month that the congregation met for preaching, with brother M.L. Sexton doing the preaching.

Every fifth Sunday brother C.A. (Charlie) Wheeler, who was born in Lamar County near Crossville, would come down from Jasper and preach for the congregation.

Many preachers held gospel meetings in the old school house church building with one being brother Gus Dunn Jr. It was during this meeting in 1927 that sixteen people were baptized into Christ in the creek at Turner's Mill. One of those baptized was Fannie Lou Rector, now known as Fannie Lou Cole, and still a faithful member at the Vernon church. Other ministers who held meetings at the Vernon congregation include; A.D. Dyes, Gus Nichols, R.C. Nickol, Leo Boles, and H.B. Hardeman.

Many comical events took place in the old church building. Once a small dog invited himself to church. At this time the doors and windows had no screens on them, and were kept open for air circulation. The dog came in and began howling, barking and running under the pews. To say the least, the worship service was temporarily delayed and the dog was quickly escorted outside. On another Sunday morning, a bird nest with eggs was discovered in the pulpit. Arrangements were made to dispose of the nest and its contents, but sister Mary Lawrence had compassion on the nest and carefully removed them and carried them home after service. Each Sunday, as sister Orpha Hankins cleaned the communion trays, she would go to a back room in the building and pour the remaining juice through a hole in the floor. The young children were always volunteering to help with this effort in hopes that they could drink some of the juice while pouring it down the hole. And during the last few years of using the old school building, sister Lucille Bostick and sister Millie Hill would arrive early for worship to clear out birds that would roost in the building during the week.

The old elementary school building served the church well for many years, but eventually a larger facility was needed. So, in the January 8th, 1947 issue of the Lamar Democrat an ad was placed saying the old elementary building would be sold to the highest bidder on January 11th at 2:30 p.m. in Vernon. While the old building was being torn down, and the new building erected, the congregation met in the courthouse. At this time attendance was up around the upper thirties. After completing the new building the first full time minister, brother G.R. Dobbs, was hired. Also at this time the first elders and deacons were appointed to serve the congregation. These elders were: J. Andrew Johnson, Bradley Wheeler, Raymond Bostick and Luther Randolph. The deacons were: J.F. Long, Ray Hankins, and Reddus Bostick.

In 1962 a new wing was added and the entrance was remodeled in 1964. The present auditorium, seating 400, was constructed in 1969 and in 1982 a new two-story educational complex was built. Also in 1982, the property next to the building was purchased for additional parking and future expansion.

(information from a term paper by Eddie Finch entitled "A Study on the History of the Vernon church of Christ", April, 1992)

Childhood Church Memories of the Church of Christ in Haleyville

2007-07-13T17:12:00.000-07:00

Submitted by Joann Holdbrooks

Voices blended as the Ninth Avenue Church of Christ sang in harmony "I'll Meet You In the Morning." Mrs. Ethel McAfee could be heard over everyone. Her lovely soprano voice seemed to glide freely over the notes and the alto, tenor and bass were enmeshed perfectly. Tom Greenhaw stood in his usual place on the right side of the communion table. His right hand went up and down and across as he led the old song with his scraggly voice. He would rise to his tiptoes in a rhythmic manner as he sang. I sat by my grandfather, Anson Lee and listened to his perfect tenor voice as he sang his favorite song. He would pat his foot and keep time with the melody. He was worshipping God in his entirety. He seemed totally unaware of his surroundings. As I watched him I was aware of how safe I felt sitting close to him and my grandmother, Daisy Lee. She sang in a low but sweet voice and much more aware of what was going on around her. She was in constant attention to the squirming child that sat beside her.

Papa was dressed in what he called his "Sunday go to meeting clothes." He rarely ever wore a tie, but left the collar of the white dress shirt open. His hair was slick to his head in a manner that it was not accustomed to. His skin was like leather. His hands were strong and gnarled with cracks in the skin that held traces of black dirt that would never come off. Moma, as I called her was quite the opposite. She was neat as a pin with every hair in place as she pulled it to the back of her head and made a coiled bun and inserted long hair pins to hold it in place. She always wore a hat and below it her oval face with eyes as blue as the sky shone brightly. Those blue eyes were always kind. But even in kindness I knew the glint when she meant business. I knew it was time to stop what ever I was doing.

This scene was repeated many times throughout my childhood years of worship at the Ninth Avenue Church. It was the foundation of my religious belief. It was a belief that I could not turn away from although I was tempted many times. It was not until I was forty years old that I was baptized into the Church. After years of agonizing and indecision this belief still held firm in the back of my mind. It was the back ground of the teachings that I received at the Ninth Avenue Church.

Sunday mornings at home were always chaos. We were all scrubbed and tubbed in the old aluminum wash tub on Saturday night. Then on Sunday morning it was Mama's task of dressing four girls that sent her up the wall. Shoes were lost and socks were mismatched. Then there was the task of fixing hair. Each one wanted their hair a different way. Mine was usually in Shirley Temple curls since Mama rolled it on long aluminum rollers. This was much to my dismay because I hated having my hair rolled. Finally all were dressed and Mama and Daddy rushed us into the shiny blue 1940 Plymouth in a huff. The trip to church was unsettling, with Mama yelling and screaming at us and Daddy pouting every mile of the way, because of all the commotion. When we entered the church doors all was well. There were smiles from Mama and Daddy and each child behaved as a lady.

We usually sang a song or two and then each individual responded and went to their respective classes, when the roll was called. In class we were handed a small card with Bible verses and stories. The teacher, usually, Mrs. Verna Parson, would read the story and talk about the lesson. After 45 minutes we were dismissed into the auditorium to begin worship services.

These services were always too long for me. I just wanted to get out of there and go home to play. Many a time I was pinched or was taken outside behind the telephone office next door, to the hedge bush. I would scream and yell. Then Mama would dry my tears and take me right back in. I can remember how new shoes burned my feet. How much I wanted to talk to Jeanette and Benny Joe. As I waited painfully for the services to be dismissed I would count the decorative tiles on the ceiling. I would watch as the sun filtered through the stained glass windows and presented a rainbow of colors. I looked at the women's hats and couldn't wait until I was old enough to wear one. Finally the last amen was voiced and I hit the door. There was usually a crowd that would stand and talk after church, but not me. I was in the car with Daddy waiting on Mama and the rest.

The old church building is still a vivid image in my mind. It does not exist now, having been torn down for progress as it was called. There was a concrete area in from of the church that led to the steps. Then there was the porch and the double doors that led into the church. On top of the building was a steeple with a huge iron bell inside it. This was home to dozens of pigeons and town sparrows. Sometimes their singing, cooing and chirping was as loud as the singing inside. I never heard the old bell ring or chime. As you entered the double doors at the back of the church everything was in full view. There was no vestibule. The pews were dark mahogany. So was the pulpit and the communion table and the Jacobean chairs that sat on each side of the pulpit. There were six cathedral shaped windows (three on each side). Around the perimeter of these windows was stained glass squares of dark blue, amber, red, and green. There was a baptistery behind the pulpit with dark green curtains covering the opening. The pews were arranged in three equal rows in the church with two aisles. In front of these pews were three rows of smaller pews turned laterally. Six ornate light fixtures hung from the ceiling by chains and beside these fixtures were ceiling fans to cool the air during the summer months. The communion table stood in front of the pulpit. It was always covered by an immaculate white table cloth with lace insertion. The lid to wine tray had a silver cross that protruded, causing a tent effect. Many time I have seen this cloth removed and the Lord's Supper served to the congregation.

Baptisms occurred regularly. It always made me nervous because I was an afraid the person would drown. I would sit all tensed up and with widened eyes as the lights were turned out for the baptism. Every one would rejoice and sing When the person was raised up from the water. I couldn't imaging what they were rejoicing about because the person was always dripping wet and looked uncomfortable.

Sometimes I wish I could go back to those innocent days of childhood. I realize that these events integrated with other life experiences have made me the person I am today. I thank God for God fearing parents and Grandparents.

Sylvan Springs Church of Christ

2007-07-12T19:11:00.000-07:00

In 1949 a group of Christians from Sandusky, Ensley, and Adamsville Churches of Christ saw a need to establish a church in this area. Members came from Bayview, Minor, Edgewater, McDonald's Chapel, Mulga Hoagrown, and even as far away as Quintown. When the church began in 1950 it was known as the Mulga Church of Christ and met in the Masonic Hall, in Mulga.

The building on Mulga Loop Road was built around 1951. The congregation became known as the Maytown Church of Christ early in the 1970s, when the town was incorporated. A large classroom addition was added in 1971.

Early church leaders included W.D. Vance, Ira Mccleskey, David Lyon, Alfred Brown, James Alred, Alan Chism, and L.G. Parker. Preachers for the church included W.W. Wade (the first full-time minister), Fred Winslett, Paul Wilcutt, Owen Calvert, W.A. Holley (who was here about 17 years, Donald Davis, and the current preacher, David Courington, who moved here in 1978.

In 1978 those serving as elders were Teamus Garrison, Bill Hand, Ira McCleskey, and Erwin Poole. Those who have served since then include Charles Dill, Ivan Plyler, and the current elders - Daryl Custred, Kent Garrison, and David Courington.

Early in 2003, with our building filled almost to capacity, the elders began working with the congregation on a plan to build a larger facility. The result is the current building in Sylvan Springs, Alabama. With this new blessing, the congregation is excited about doing the Lord's work in the surrounding communities.

When you visit us, you will find a church that is unique from those in the world. You will find a church that is dedicated to doing the will of God, as he has revealed it to us in the holy Scriptures.

Rocky Springs Church of Christ

2007-07-10T16:36:00.000-07:00

Oldest Church of Christ in Alabama
Bridgeport, Alabama
This plaque was given to Thomas Foshee, representing the church, on January 4, 1976, in a public ceremony at the building before a large assembled crowd.
According to the old church records, we find life quite different from our life today. There were few comforts of any kind. There were dangers from hostile Indians for this was Indian territory. Cherokee Indians were abundant in the area, the Indian removal was not until 1828. It was said that men members of the church were posted on the outside of the building during services to guard against the Indians. Russell Cave National Monument is located about 5 miles away where archeologists have found remains of Indians dating back to 6,000 B.C.
In the year 1807 Thomas Jefferson was President of the United States and we had slavery. There was no Jackson County, Alabama. Our new nation was just 31 years old. It was prior to the war of 1812. It is stated in the old records of the congregation that valiant men served with honor in all the wars of our country.
Early in the 1800's, a number of Presbyterian and Episcopalian pioneers had moved from North Carolina and Virginia into the Tennessee Valley River Valley and adjoining areas of Tennessee, some of them founding a community in Warren County, Tennessee, which became known as Old Philadelphia. These were religious people, without a preacher, and they studied the scriptures together. Soon they were worshipping as one body, calling themselves Christians and the church only as the church of Christ.
A post road from Knoxville to New Orleans was opened in 1805 and some two years later, when the territory of Alabama, then largely occupied by the Cherokee Indians, was opened to white settlers, among the first to arrive and settle in North Alabama was a group from Warren County, Tennessee. Some of these people located near the post road at the foot of a mountain and built a community called Antioch. This was in 1807.
Among these white settlers were William J. Price, baptized in 1811 at Old Philadephia, Tennessee, and his wife and a slave named Moses. They selected a home site near a spring they found by following a game trail, and named the place Rocky Springs. It was a plantation located a little over a mile south of Antioch. W.J. Price was a prominent leader in the church until his death in January 1868. His grave lies just across the street from the church building in the Rocky Springs cemetery.
A community grew up around the Price home on the post road to Rocky Springs. A post office, trading post, a tavern, and stables for changing horses on the stage coaches were all built here.
On June 12, 1847, the congregation moved into a new building at Rocky Springs and 82 members all committed themselves to the Lord. W.J. Price had deeded the property to the church where, even to this day, it still stands. The records recognized the elders: Elisha M. Price, William King and Andrew Russell. In June 1851, the congregation had grown to 130 members. Deacons and elders were present in the church at this time.
The Civil War was most disastrous to the church. A letter written by Washington Bacon pointed out that there were ten widows with thirty-five children in the congregation and they were destitute. Many of the men of the church had been called to fight in the war and most all were killed. In the winter of 1864, the church building was burned by the Union Army. Most of the remaining members were scattered, but some returned in 1865 and resumed worship and slowly began to rebuild, completing the building in 1870. By 1875, the church had out grown the building and still larger one was built. The present building was erected in 1912 and additions hae been made since then.
As a point of information for those who mistakenly suggest that the church of Christ was founded by Alexander Campbell , it may be shown that Old Philadelphia Church of Christ came into existence not later than 1810, that the Antioch (Rocky Springs) church began in 1807, that Campbell arrived in America September 29, 1809 and did not preach his first Gospel sermon until July 15, 1810 at Washington, Penn., and that Campbell did not cease to work within association of the Baptist church until 1827. Thus congregations of the church of Christ were in existence in America for at least 19 years before Campbell laid aside his denominational ties and also began to worship according to the New Testament pattern.
We will be celebrating our 192nd anniversary Labor Day week-end September 1999. Because better communication is in the brotherhood, especially on the internet, we are finding a few more congregations that started around that time in middle Tennessee. If you know of a old, continuous Church of Christ, please let us know.
Today, the Rocky Springs church is a small congregation of about 40 people. Several surrounding towns like Bridgeport, Stevenson, and South Pittsburg have drawn away have drawn a lot of people away from Rocky Springs. The new 4 Lane Highway 72 comes within 100 yards of our building. If you are driving on Highway 72 near Bridgeport, please stop and worship with us. We have signs directing you toward our building. Turn North on County Road 209 and the building will be on the left about 100 yards up at the intersection of County Road 209 and 574. We would be glad to have you as our honored guests.

Beltline Church of Christ

2007-07-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

Decatur, Morgan County, Alabama

CHURCH HISTORY
From "the ole cotton fields back home" these words from an old song are true. But, this is really when the thought of a congregation on the west side of Decatur had its beginning.

Mrs. Pearl Kelly and Mrs. Cora Sneed were chopping cotton together that day less than two miles north from where the Beltline church is located today.

Mr. R. E. Sneed ask William Kelly to help him with some farm chore so Mrs. Cora Sneed came over to the Kelly's to work in william's place chopping cotton. Here these two Christian ladies discussed the possibility of starting a congregation in this community. So they bought a handful of penny post cards and mailed them to several families on the west side of town notifying them of their plans and inviting them to come to the Kelly's home the 2nd Sunday of July 1931 in the afternoon.

The Kellys lived about a stone's throw east of Steve Armstrong's Yamaha dealership on the new Moulton Highway and the Beltline. The first meeting at the Kelly's home included some of the following: the William Kellys, the John Cagles, the Charlie Cagles, Pink Sutton, the R. E. Sneeds, the Jewel Harvells, and the Ed Garretts. Visitors from Grant Street were Bro. Gurney Tucker, Bro. Hendon, Bro. Greer, Bro. Flowers and Bro. Sam Burns (grandfather of our Sarah Paden). I'm sure there were others but Mrs. Pearl could only think of these families.

This first meeting was under a big oak tree in the Kelly's yard. The church was established here and continued through the Summer and early Fall.

As Fall settled upon the city, the rains and cold weather came. This forced the congregation inside. The meeting place moved to the Sneed's home. That good family simply emptied out a large room upstairs - so this is where they met through the winter.

During the next Summer the men of the church cleared out a nice place under some big oak trees in Moulton Heights. They built a brush arbor and the services were conducted there that Summer. This location is south of the Old Moulton Rd. and Pine Street which dead ends on Old Moulton Rd.

Brother Oscar Norton conducted a meeting under the brush arbor for the church that Summer, 1932. Bro. Norton has a daughter, Elsie Norton, who lives in Decatur now. She worships with the church at Grant Street. I can remember that meeting very well. Oil lamps and gas lanterns furnished the lights at night services.
n the Fall of 1933, Nov. 15th, Bro. R. E. Sneed passed away. He was a good man and one of their good leaders. He worked hard in getting the men and boys to participate in the services. All of them went along with him but Marlin and Leonard Cagle. Finally, he told them he was going to call on them next Sunday. During that week, Brother Sneed died and was buried. So the next Sunday one of the men said that Brother Sneed's last request was that these two boys take part in the next service. Neither of them refused.

With one of their leaders gone, one would think the congregation would fall apart, but not this one. That Fall they rented Ed Poff's old store building there in Moulton Heights at the corner of Old Moulton Rd. and Pine St, on the west side of Pine St. It was an old, dilapidated building but served the purpose until late 1934. It was sold and the church moved up on West Moulton St. where the Dairy Queen is now located.

It, too, was an old run down store building. We remember this place for its dampness. It leaked so bad when it rained the ladies had to use their umbrellas. While meeting here, I remember Brother Pink Sutton coming to worship in a buggy. He would give all the kids a penny to put in the collection plate.

I also remember a family who lived on 11th Ave. S.W. that had two daughters almost grown and they were mentally handicapped. Brother Andrew Cagle was passing the Lord's Supper around. When he came to these two girls, one of them took the whole piece of bread, broke it in half and gave her sister the other half. (The ladies of the church made the bread at that time.) Brother Andrew stood there for a second or two, then he grabbed one of the pieces, put it back in the plate and continued on. I thought (as a kid), what will he do with the one glass of the fruit of the vine? But when he got to them he just bypassed them.

With the water leaks getting worse, the church moved next door and upstairs over the Baker Sheats General Store. Discouragement set in because this was not a good place to have worship services. Also, there were some families living upstairs.

By this time Brother Walden Wear had become one of the church leaders. With support and backing of the members, Brother Wear bought the Winton store building on West Moulton St. and 11th Ave. S.W., just a stones throw from where we had been meeting.

This little building was 30'x40', a simple rectangle with several windows, two front doors and no classrooms. During the winter of 1935 the faithful Christians would come to every service and sit on pews made from stove wood blocks with 2"x6" or 2"x8" laid across them. Not a chance of going to sleep. You might fall off. The best I remember there were no cushions on these pews either.

At this location, the church employed their first minister, Brother Charles Bailey from Texas. This was a joint effort with the Austinville church. He would work with Westside for two weeks and then work with the Austinville church two weeks.
This was May 18, 1940.

We lived down on the Old Trinity Road at that time - farming. The house we lived in was located where the chicken processing plant is now located in the Industrial Park on McEntire Lane. We had a well for our water supply, an outhouse (double seater) and the whole nine yards, so I guess Brother Bailey as a young man right out of school found this to be pretty rough.

During the two weeks at Austinville Brother Bailey lived with the E.V. Wallace's on the corner of Cedar and Cleveland Streets. I understand they had indoor plumbing.

Brother Bailey baptized me during the summer of 1940.

While located at Moulton St. & 11th Ave. S.W. some businessmen built a sale barn where you sold and bought horses, mules and cattle. The mules and horses braying could be disturbing during worship, but the flies were the worse culprits.

By now in 1941-42 the little congregation appointed two elders, Brother Luke Cagle and Brother Andrew Cagle. Some months after this the Ralph Webb family (wife and son) came to Decatur from the Tri-Cities area. He was an insurance agent. He was a very energetic and enthusiastic Christian. He played a major role in our first planned church building. He encouraged the elders to build a new building.

In 1943, the church bought a corner lot from the City of Decatur for $450.00. This lot was located on Memorial Dr. N.W. and then Patterson St. N.W.

I remember one Sunday afternoon, our elders and several men of the church met with the elders of the Grant Street congregation to discuss with them our plans and, too, see if they would be willing to help us financially. We met in Brother Sandlin's home on 3rd Ave. N.W. I remember this meeting very well. As the meeting was about to conclude, Brother Flowers, one of the Grant St. elders, said, "You folks are not able to build a church building. Besides that, we have plenty of room for you at Grant St." Brother Webb let out a big horse laugh and said, "Brother Flowers, I've raised more money than that to build a football field." So we did.

Mr. Leroy Dietz was given the contract to build the church building in late 1942-43. We moved into this building in 1943. It was a frame building with asbestos siding, two classrooms, baptistry and restrooms. The cost was approximately $6,500.00.

While this building was under construction, we met a few months on Memorial Dr. N.W., in the old Joe Wheeler Elementary School. It has now been a Pentecostal church for some time.

Foy Short was our first minister at Memorial Dr. N.W. His parents were missionaries in Africa. He was born and reared there. He came to the States to get his college training at Abilene Christian. Foy was with us from July 1944 to July 1946. He married and moved back to Africa.

Don Healy was our minister from August 1946 until September 1947. While here his wife died during childbirth. The baby girl lived and we got to meet her this past Summer. Brother Short and Brother Healey taught at Athens Bible School.

The church borrowed $4,500.00 in 1947 from Brother Murray Dodd to build an annex to our building - 5 classrooms, 2 rooms in the basement and 3 rooms floor level with auditorium. We have grown to about 130 members now.

Brother T.A. Thompson and family came to us from the Austinville congregation in the Fall of 1947 on October 1st.

We borrowed money from Bro. and Sister O.N. Williams (one of our families) to build a preacher's home just behind the church building.

In 1953 or '54 Brother L.R. Brooks was appointed an elder to work along with Bro. Luke and Brother Andrew. Brother Thompson preached and worked with us for about ten (10) years. During his years, we really grew, both spiritually and numerically. He was one of the finest men I have ever known.

During this time (1957) Rufus Campbell, Millard Cagle, Willard Street and Hollis Lynn were appointed deacons. We had reached attendance of 200 or 250 during this 10 years.

Brother Thompson's only daughter, Zerah, worships with us now. She is married to Talmadge Wallace.

Joe Poston preached for us from April 1958 until October 1958.

Bob McAnally preached for us from the Fall of 1958 until August 1961. Bob is a native of Decatur, AL but he came to us from Michigan. He worked with us through the building program on Memorial Drive S.W. He is a fine Christian gentleman and did a great job for the church here. He left us in August 1961.

During Bob's work with us Brother Millard Cagle was appointed an Elder, July 1961. Lowell Tuten, Gene Page, Charles Smith, O.N. Williams, Dyke McLemore and Buddy Cagle were appointed Deacons in July 1961.

The church bought a good part of a city block on Memorial Drive S.W. and 1st St. S.W. for the location of our new building. We gave $15,000.00 for these lots, paid $1,000.00 down and paid it out by the month. We really ventured out on faith at this time. The land and the building cost approximately $120,000.00 as listed below.

The building, lots, and pews $111,000.00 Painting $3,000.00 Equipment $5,000.00 Miscellaneous $1,000.00.

We, the members, did all the painting, plumbing and the heating and cooling system. Brother Emmitt Birdwell really did a great job in leading us through the plumbing and H/A system. The auditorium was a quarter circle (beautiful), would seat 500 people, 15 classrooms, office and two nurseries.

Two loans were secured a $45,000.00 note from First Federal Savings & Loan Co. and sold $25,000.00 in Broadway Bonds. The former was retired at $439.00 per month, the latter at $200.00 per month. In 1960 the membership had grown to 260 members. The Sunday a.m. average was 290 in attendance, Sunday p.m. 190 and Wednesday night 175 in attendance. The contribution averaged $400.00 per Sunday.

Brother George Marshall and family came to us in November 1961. During the five (5) years George worked with us our Sunday School attendance increased from 180 to 310. The Sunday morning worship service increased from 250 to 450. The Sunday evening from 200 to 310. Wednesday night Bible Study increased about 25%. The Lord blessed us tremendously during this period. It seems everyone had a mind to work. To God we gave the glory. George and family left us on November 13, 1966. Also, during these five years we had 500 responses. Thirty-two (32)% were baptisms, 45% restorations and 41% placed membership.

Also, while Brother Marshall was with us, September 1964, the following men were appointed Deacons: Ernie Spivey, Ernest Taylor, Howard Morris, Troy Welch, B.G. Ryan, George Truitt and Carlos Webb.

Elmer Lusk and family came to us on December 9, 1966. Elmer came to us from the Eastside congregation in Columbia, TN. In December of 1966, additional elders and deacons were appointed. Elders were Howard Morris, Ernest Taylor and Troy Welch. Deacons were Charles Birdwell, Coleman Ledlow, John Redford, and Carol Simpson. The elders during Brother Lusk's work were Andrew Cagle, L.R. Brooks, Millard Cagle, Howard Morris, Ernest Taylor and Troy Welch.

Brother Morris resigned on June 4, 1967. They moved back to Florence, AL.

Brother Lusk did a great work at Memorial Drive and he was well thought of and appreciated by the church. He and his family left us on August 8, 1971. They went back to the Eastside congregation in Columbia, TN. At this time these were the only two congregations he had worked with. One of Elmer's hobbies was repairing and refinishing antique furniture.

Brother Curtis Sampley and family came to us on August 27, 1971 and continued with us until September 27, 1981. He helped us through two building programs, the education building and the auditorium.

On October 12, 1969 the church bought 10 acres of land out on the Beltline Rd. and Kathy Lane S.W. and took option on an addition 5 acres. We bought the land from Decatur Land Co. owned by Roy Fite and Clay Callahan. They gave the church two of the ten acres and gave us another acre when we exercised the option on the five acres. The land cost $132,000.00. The first stage of a three stage building program was begun in 1972.

The first stage was the educational building, which we used as an auditorium for about 8 years. We could seat 1,000 people in this building. The auditorium was surrounded with classrooms, offices and restrooms. This building was also built to the State of Alabama specifications so we could house a Bible School in the future. This building was financed by a bond program. It cost approximately $750,000.00. We sold $131,000.00 in bonds for ten years. Several members of the church loaned the church over $100,000.00 interest free for several years. This certainly was a great help.

The first service was conducted in this building May 27, 1973. Brother V.P. Black was our speaker at the dedication of the building on June 3, 1973.

In August of 1979 construction was begun on our current auditorium. It is supposed to seat 1,200 people. This building was also financed through a bond program, which was for $400,000.00. The cost was approximately $800,000.00. Furniture and equipment ran it close to $1,000,000.00. We occupied the auditorium on October 19, 1980.

Tom Holland was our guest speaker for our dedication. The first wedding in this new building was Frank Barker and Robin Solley. This is the second building program while Brother Sampley was with us.

Curtis and his family left us on September 27, 1981. He went to International Bible College in Florence, AL as one of the staff members there. He did a great job for the church at Beltline. He was loved by the church. We grew both spiritually and numerically during the ten (10) years the Sampleys were with us. Brother Sampley is currently working with Southern Christian University in Montgomery, AL and living in Ft. Deposit.

Brother Charles Boddy began work with Beltline on October 4, 1981 and worked with us until August 19, 1984. He was an excellent preacher. From Beltline Brother Boddy went to Germantown, TN. He is currently with the Dalraida congregation in Montgomery, AL.

Brother Gordon McWhorter came to us on July 7th, 1985 from the Madison congregation in Madison, AL. He was an excellent young preacher. He taught and converted many young couples while with us. We probably had our largest attendance while Gordon was with us. Quite frequently we would have 700 - 750 in attendance. Gordon grew up in adjoining Lawrence County. The McWhorter families in Lawrence County have been and are great pillars of the church. Gordon was an energetic young man. He left us August 21, 1988 and went to the Landmark congregation in Montgomery, AL.

Dan Winkler and family came to us from the Huntingdon, TN area on October 6, 1988. Dan worked with us for several years until April 17, 1994 and went to Crieve Hall in Nashville, TN. He is an excellent gospel preacher. It seems as though Beltline is a stepping stone to greener fields (?) for so many of our ministers. I suppose that is a good compliment.

During Dan's work with us we built the Activity Center. About June of 1989 we started planning how to finance the third phase of the three phase building. This building consisted of all our offices, work rooms, benevolent area, fellowship area, Fireside Room, the activity center and several classrooms. Woodward Construction Co. of Hartselle, AL was the contractor. This building was financed by pledges made by the members of the Beltline church over a three (3) year period. It took a little longer and a lot of people continued to give on a monthly basis until the debt was retired. This saved us thousands of dollars in interest. It is a much used facility.

We occupied this building on January 1, 1990 with a cost of over one million. Brother Granville Graves was very instrumental in putting this pledge plan in action. We appreciate Granville very much for his efforts and abilities for the cause of Christ.

Dwight Sowle and family worked with us most of the time Dan Winkler was with us as our Youth Director. The Sowles moved back to Nashville, TN and are now in Tyler, TX.

Brother Bruce White and wife, Judy, came to us from the Guntersville, AL church on August 1, 1994. Bruce is really doing an excellent work since coming to us. He is a real "people person". They have been well received by the Beltline church and also the community.

The church is enjoying a period of peace, calm and unity and a great spirit of cooperation. We thank our God for that and give Him all the praise and glory. I would like to think that the Beltline church is stronger spiritually now than ever before. So many people have a mind to work. So many ministries are working so efficiently.

The church is doing more mission work than in the history of the congregation, both locally and in foreign fields. We feel like we have one of the greatest mission works in the brotherhood going on in Haiti with the Joe Worndle family as our missionaries.

Our benevolent program is second to none, well known in our area for its work. There was probably $75,000.00 to $80,000.00 that went through the benevolent program last year.

Our medical team is going to Haiti this year. They alternate between Haiti and Guyana. We have a group of personal workers that go to Guyana and work with the medical team. Also, we have a group of brethren (8 or 10) who go and build church buildings. They went last year and built a church building for Brother Bruce House who graduated from International Bible College at Florence, AL.

We have a wonderful youth program. Randy Owens worked with us as an Associate Minister from March 1, 1995 until September 18, 1996. Randy is a local boy, reared here in the Austinville area. He did us a great job while here. He moved to East Cullman in Cullman, AL as their minister.

David Farris and family came to us in February 1997 from the Smyrna congregation in Smyrna, TN. We are happy to have David, Kim and children with us.

Child care is another ministry that is doing a good work with Agape, helping people locally, and supporting children at Childhaven in Cullman, AL and the Potters Children’s Home in Kentucky. We also have 156 children in Adventureland. This started out as Thursday School. It now has progressed to 5 days per week.

We have an effective Jail & Prison ministry. This group teaches and converts over a hundred people each year. They go into the Morgan County Jail and the Limestone Correctional Facility. Charles Baggett, one of our members, is the Chaplain at Limestone and doing a great work among the inmates. Along with this work is our correspondence course work which is effective. Lee and Lora Lee Brewer are in charge of these courses.

In the early part of 1997, we began thinking of beginning a local work among the Hispanics. We began communicating with Brother Justo Dorantes and his wife, Svetlana. These discussions all came together about the first of August 1997. They moved to Decatur shortly thereafter. Justo was born and reared in the Yucatan, Peninsula on the southern tip of Mexico.

The work got off to a good start and they have converted about 12 people to Christ thus far. They are doing a good job. Their verage attendance is 20 to 25 per Sunday. We are so glad. God has blessed our congregation with their abilities and talent.

Also, we took part with other local congregations in the city (Austinville, Grant St. and Moulton Heights) in beginning a new congregation in Courtland, Alabama among the black population there. Moulton Heights church and Harold Gilmore have the oversight of this new work.

Brother Larry Williams is the minister in Courtland. He is a graduate of International Bible College in Florence, AL, class of 1982. They are meeting and worshipping in Courtland for their regular services. They have about 18 members and average about 25 each Sunday. We are really excited about this new work also.

These are just a few of our 30 ministries. Most are doing well.
The following is a list of preachers that have preached for this congregation:
Oscar Norton - 1931-32 and many other times
Robert Farrish - 1932
Farrish Smith - 1933
Brother Neill - 5/1/36
Brother Morrow - 7/5/36
Brother Hill - 2/7/37
Brother Carlisle - 9/4/38
Brother Hood - 10/2/38
Walden Wear - 1938-'39
Howard Parker - 7/23/39, 8/27/39, 11/19/39
Quinton McKay - many times 1939-'43
Brother Mann - 12/31/39
Brother Morgan - 10/5/41
Brother Praytor - 10/18/42
Alvin Holt conducted a meeting in 1943
The following preachers conducted meetings for us:
1944 - Lindsey Allen
August 1946 - Rufus Underwood
Spring 1958 - Ira Douthit
Summer 1958 - Gus Nichols
1959 - Charles R. Brewer
1960-'61 - No Record
June 3-10, 1962 - Gentry Stults
October 6-13, 1963 - Howard Norton
June 2-9, 1963 - Virgil Bradford
June 7-14, 1964 - Charles Coil
October 11-16, 1964 - Bob Clardy
June 21-27, 1965 - Bob McAnally
October 18-24, 1965 - W.C. Quillen
June 6-13, 1966 - Joe Hazelbaker
October 3-9, 1966 - Bob Brooks
June 4-11, 1967 - Gentry Stults
June 2-8, 1968 - Curtis Ramey
June 1-8, 1969 - Charles Coil (65 responses)
June 8-14, 1970 - Jack Wilhelm
June 7-14, 1971 - Joe Hazelbaker
June 4-11, 1972 - Lamar Matthews
June 4-10, 1973 - C. Bruce White
June 2-8, 1974 - Gentry Stults
June 1-8, 1975 - Charles Coil
June 6-13, 1976 - Jerry Jenkins
June 5-12, 1977 - C. Bruce White
Jun 4-11, 1978 - William "Bill" Cline
June 3-10, 1979 - Jack Wilhelm
June 2-8, 1980 - Gentry Stults
June 7-14, 1981 - Elmer Lusk
June 6-13, 1982 - Jack Wilhelm
June 5-12, 1983 - Wayne Kilpatrick
June 3-10, 1984 - Doug Parsons
June 2-9, 1985 - Paul Tarrence
November 17-20, 1985 - Jim Bill McInteer
March 2-5, 1986 - Steve Flatt
June 1-6, 1986 - Bob McAnally
October 3-5, 1986 - Willard Alls
March 1987 - James Jones
June 7-14, 1987 - Dennis Jones
October 4-7, 1987 - W.T. Allison
November 1987 - Hugo McCord
March 1988 - William Woodson
June 5-9, 1988 - Bill Thrasher
October 16-19, 1988 - Jim Bill McInteer
June 4-7, 1989 - Dan Jenkins
June 3-8, 1990 - W. T. Allison
February 9-10, 1991 - Jim Bill McInteer
June 2-9, 1991 - Gary Bradley
September 20-22, 1991 - Jule & Judy Miller
October 25-26, 1991 - Bill McDonald (Grief Recovery)
June 7-10, 1992 - James Watkins
November 21, 1992 - Milton Sewell
March 16, 1993 - Harold Gilmore
April 25-28, 1993 - Dewayne Spivey
September 19, 1993 - Willard Collins
December 5, 1993 - Jim Bill McInteer
We had special Sundays in 1994 and 1995:
January 9, 1994 - Wendell Winkler
March 24, 1994 - Mike Cagle
August 14, 1994 - C. Bruce White
September 25, 1994 - Herschel McFarlen
January 15, 1995 - Dennis Jones - Neighbor Day
March 1, 1995 - Randy Owens - Welcome Sunday
March 19, 1995 - August Ruff - Visitor Sunday
April 22, 1995 - Bill McDonald - Grief Recovery
July 16, 1995 - Harold Hazelip
August 27, 1995 - Joe Worndle - Mission Sunday
October 8, 1995 - Jack Evans - Harvest Sunday
Our special Sundays in 1996 were as follows:
March 10, 1996 - "Spring Thing"
May 8-12, 1996 - C. Bruce White
June 30, 1996 - "Glory To God Contribution" - $54,646.27
November 10, 1996 - Family Reunion Sunday - 776 in worship
November 17, 1996 - Childhaven Thanksgiving Appeal - $12,000.00
December 15, 1996 - Childhaven Christmas Party - 25-30 children with 5 to 6 gifts each
1997 brought our gospel meeting with Bill Thrasher conducted June 22-25. Brother Willard Tate was with us for a special weekend, "Habits of a Loving Heart" November 7-8.

At the time of the writing the church seems to be doing well. We are enjoying peace and unity. So many people have a mind to work. Brother Bruce White is doing a great job as our minister. Brother David Farris has been with us for a short time, but we are so pleased to have him as our Youth Director. He is a very spiritual man. This is what our children need. We are looking forward to a long working relationship with David and his family.

We currently have twenty-seven (27) deacons. All of these good men serve over their respective ministries. They do a great work and do untold leg work behind the scenes in support of the elders. Currently we have eight (8) elders. It is a real privilege to work with this group of good men, Chuck Elliott, Bill Jordan, Hollis Lynn, David Smith, Ernie Spivey, Bud Surles, Franklin Wallace. We meet each Sunday evening from 4:00 until 5:50 to try to stay abreast of all the good things that are happening. Too, we spend whatever time is necessary and when necessary to care for and oversee this flock of God's wonderful people.

God has been good to us and we give Him the glory and praise for all the good that this church has been able to accomplish down through the years. Many good elders and church members of years gone by have sacrificed and made our path much easier for us. They will always be in our memories. May our Father in heaven help us to lead and guide this good church in the Bible way that He will be pleased with the church and we as its leadership. May He continue to open up many doors of opportunities to this church. To God be all the glory and praise.

I trust all the facts and information are as near to right as possible as I tried to gather them together.
Yours in Him,

L.E. "Buddy" Cagle

Burleson Church of Christ

2007-07-10T14:38:00.000-07:00

Marion County, Alabama

Around 1923 everybody in the community were farmers. There were cars or trucks and the people either walked, traveled in wagons or rode their mules. Some went to church at the Whitehouse and some to Barn Creek which was a pretty good distance on cold rainy days. There was a little one room school house in the community which was called Burleson School. J.F. Burleson and family who went to Barn Creek and Charlie Howell and family who went to Whitehouse. As a matter of convenience to everyone, 1922 or 1923 marked the beginning of the Church of Christ at Burleson. They met in the little school house until 1933, when it was decided they needed a building of their own. J.F. Burleson donated one acre of land and Charlie Howell furnished the lumber for the house. The house was small and additional rooms were added in 1940. Around 1960 or 65 more additional rooms were added and in 1973 the present building was built on land donated by Coy and Essie Burleson. In 1984 the minister’s home was erected and by 1988 a fellowship hall was completed.
Some of the preachers who held meetings at Burleson in years gone by were Charley Nichol, Gus Nichols, Chester Estes, W.A. Black, W.A. Holley, Edsel Burleson, Hoyt Bailey and others. For many years they did not have a regular minister. However, those who have served as regular preachers were Mack Epperson, Hubert (Stubby) George, Burson Dobbs, David Howell and G.L. Mann.
The Burleson Church owes its beginning and present existence to meeting the needs to those around, and that need insures its continued growth as we face a new decade and century.
The present elders are B.A. Armstrong, Wade Mann, Walter MdKay and Lynn McRight. The deacons are Furman Walker, Lowell Crowe, Randy Pickard, and Shannan Mays. The present minister is Todd Clippard. (written 2000 by Tony Keith)

Curry Church of Christ

2007-07-10T14:25:00.000-07:00

History of the Curry Church of Christ

The thought of having a Church of Christ congregation at Curry in Walker County, Alabama, dates to the late 1940's. Several families met Sunday afternoons in homes for a few years. Getting a congregation established was difficult. They disbanded and attended established congregations in the area including Six Avenue of Jasper, Gus Nichols, Preacher.
Brother Nichols saw a great need for a congregation here. To gain support for this, a tent meeting was held at Curry High School football field in the summer of 1970 with Brother Nichols preaching. Large crowds attended each night.
They met the following Sunday to get a census of numbers, support, and to officially establish a congregation. Earl Rigsby, Bruce Myers, Gus Nichols, and Blen McCoy searched to find land. Two and one-half acres were located on Highway 257 near Curry School.
Trustees Blen McCoy, Earl Rigsby, Gus Nichols. Bruce Myers, and J. W. Wood purchased the land from Mrs. P. J. Lowery of Thatch for $2,500. Earl Barnett gathered financial help from other county congregations to get the effort up and going.
Much labor of love was poured into the building construction. Earl Rigsby borrowed equipment from Drummond Company to dig the basement. The Blanton Brothers of Midway laid the basement blocks. Continuing to put in long hours of work until the basement was completed were Earl Rigsby-Atchel Blanton, Blen-Ruth McCoy, Richard-Betty Garrett & children, Kenyon Banks, H. L. Couch, and Brodie Plyler and Crews.
The first assembly was held in the basement the first Sunday of May, 1971, with three classrooms and a small auditorium. Earl Barnett preached. Near seventy members and children were in regular attendance with an average contribution of $225 weekly. Decisions for the congregation were made at a men's meeting until elders were appointed.
The upstairs with auditorium was finished two years later as dedicated members of the congregation and other congregations donated their time and effort to meet this task. Earl Rigsby-H.L. Couch put up the A-frames with a borrowed crane from Drummond Company. Brodie Plyler and crews put on the roof. Buell Dutton-Claude Keaton finished the needed carpentry, masonry, and other construction work. Others working tirelessly included those helping with the basement effort.
Three years after the church was established the following elders were appointed to serve the congregation : Earl Rigsby, John Dutton, Bruce Myers John Pilling and Richard Garrett. The congregation experienced a healthy growth. The preachers who have served this congregation from it's beginning to present and helped in its growth are Earl Barnett, Bill Lyons, Charles Bryan and Dale Hubbert.
Currently the Curry Church under the eldership of Carl Dunagan, Kenneth Whittmore, Keith Johns, and Jimmy Richardson is experiencing a good steady increase in membership and contributions. The average Sunday attendance is 150 with a contribution of $3000. The is very active in bible study classes and programs with the support of the entire membership to gain knowledge and understanding of the scripture. We are arming ourselves to successfully go out in our community teaching others whereby they can know the gospel. With increased effort over the past few years we have become encouraged by the number of community visitors attending our services and events. The church is also very supportive faithfully and financially of several missionaries around the world who speak to us often of their tireless but successful efforts in spreading the gospel to the lost world.

Whitehouse Church of Christ

2007-07-10T10:36:00.001-07:00

The Whitehouse church first met in an old schoolhouse that stood a few hundred feet from the present meeting house. After the first building burned, the present structure was built in 1916 at the cost of $1600. It is said that this is the first building in the area to be painted white, and so it was named the “Whitehouse”. Nearby is a cemetery, one of the local landmarks.

Many sound and capable gospel preachers have conducted meetings at this place. Such men as Charlie Wheeler (of Jasper, Alabama), A.D. Dyes, John Underwood, Gus Nichols, J.D. Tant, W.A. Black, and Hubert “Stubby” George and others have contributed a lasting influence to the church that meets here. Brother A.D. Dyes conducted the first gospel in the new meeting house in 1916. Brother Emmitt Logan led the first song in the new meeting house.

One of the most beloved and long standing customs is the annual third Sunday in July singing and decoration, accompanied by a well spread table and renewals of friendships. This singing has been carried on for as long as the older members can remember.

The present elders are Jerry Self, Gary Weatherly, and Bernard Burleson. Deacons Bill Haley, Danny Hosch, Cleburn Mays and Phillip Barnett.
The present Minister is Brother Charles Balcom.
There is a warm and friendly welcome to anyone who chooses to come and worship with the brethren at the Whitehouse Church of Christ.
submitted by Carolyn Sartin Hunter

Berea Church of Christ

2007-07-10T10:07:00.000-07:00

The Berea Church of Christ is the oldest Church of Christ in Fayette County, and has been listed as founded in 1845, however the founding members were probably meeting earlier in private homes. The founding members were the Hugh McCaleb family, the Lauderdales, the Logans and a few others. It has been claimed that old Berea was the third congregation in the state of Alabama, and was predated only by the Rocky Branch church in Bridgeport, and by the church at Moulton.

The first building for the church was on a creek not far from the present church building. The Randolph’s, Elisha, Lorenzo, Dow, Simeon, Jeremiah and Virgil along with Jim Wade were all instrumental in establishing a viable congregation. John McCaleb was also an early preacher for several years. In the early 1900’s a wooden building was erected at the present site. The current brick building was built in 1959.

In the mid 1950’s, Houston Haney and Wiley Hollingsworth were the Elders who saw the greatest growth of the church. Both of these men were preachers and served as Elders until they died. They both preached in many other congregations and were instrumental in helping other churches grow. From the time Berea was started as a congregation , it’s preachers have always been helpful in starting other churches.

Berea remains an active congregation with its original mission, but since times have changed, the church’s status has also changed with the community’s population shifts.
by Jim Herren

Berea Church of Christ Later Years

In the present building of the Berea Church of Christ is a corner stone which reads 1845. This building stands where three previous buildings stood. The brick structure there today was built in 1959.

History reveals it was through the influence of ministers, John Taylor and Jeremiah Randolph that the Berea church was established. It seems to have been the only Church of Christ existing in Fayette County before the Civil War.

Berea has had a number of preachers over the years. A few of these were John McCaleb, Gus Nichols, Houston Haney, Wiley Hollingsworth, Curtis Posey, Wesley Thompson, Lyndell Fikes, and Dale Hubbert. The present misinter is John Robertson.

Not only were Bro. Hollingsworth and Bro. Thompson beloved preachers and elders of the church at Berea, they were also men who dedicated their life as educators in public schools. Mr. Hollingsworth was a principal of Hubbertville school for many years before becoming Superintendent of Education in the later years of his career. He influenced many young people in their future occupation as well as being good citizens.

Mr. Thompson was an admired teacher who loved history and became a well known author. One of his books, “Tories of the Hills”, had been in great demand.

Berea has been fortunate to have capable men to lead the congregation throughout the years. It still continues to grow in love and concern for its members and the community.

Photo here is taken outside the Berea church includes Wyman and Lois Jones, Wiley and Pauline Hollingsworth, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, Lyndell and Virginia Fikes, Wesley and Leatha Thompson.
By Virginia Fikes

History of the Hamilton Church of Christ

2007-07-09T17:45:00.000-07:00

Hamilton, Alabama 1979

The church in Hamilton began meeting in the homes of members. There were only about two or three families then who were members of the church of christ in Hamilton. In 1905, the church began to meet in the courthouse. This continued until 1912. A wooden building was begun for the church in 1907, but was not completed for several years.

Around 1922, a brick building was constructed. The members did all the work except the laying of the brick. This first building consisted only of an auditorium. In 1925, classrooms were added. A new 550 seat auditorium was completed in 1960.

For a time in 1912-13, the church did not meet. There were then no male members of the church in Hamilton. Princie Mills and sister C.R. Franks were the only two members.

In 1913, J. G. Malphurs came on the scene and, with the help of Fannon Lambert, completed a one room wooden building. A great number of noteworthy preachers preached in meetings there. Such men as John Hudson, Bro. Lancaster, Bro. Dyes, Bro. Wallace, H. Leo Boles, C.R. Nichol, G.A. Dunn, W.A. Black, A.B. Lipscomb, and others contributed to the growth and edification of this congregation.

The first elders of the Hamilton congregation were brethren Cliff Mills, John Haney, J.L. Jackson, and A.R. Britton. The first preacher to speak “regularly” was W.A. Holley, who preached for the Guin church two Sundays and the Hamilton church two Sundays of each month. The first preacher to live among the Hamilton congregation and work with them was Jimmy Powell. Bro. Powell stayed from 1947 to 1949. Edsel Burleson followed him and remained until 1952. Bro. Burleson later returned and stayed until 1962. Bro Swindle followed Bro. Burleson’s first stay at Hamilton. Jerry Jenkins came after Bro. Burleson and stayed till 1966, at which time Truman Keith began work there for a year. Levi Sides came next and remained until 1970. He was followed by W.T. Allison, the present minister for the congregation.

The present elders are Ross Feltman, Howard Mays, Ross Dill, L.L. Moore, Caster Williams, Jim Davis, and Ray Owsley. (Written in the 1979 Marion County Sentinel)

Note: Brother W.T. Allison continued with the Hamilton Church as minister till 1988 and then Brother Dale Jenkins, who was born in Hamilton whose father is Brother Jerry Jenkins who now preaches for Roebuck Parkway Church of Christ in Birmingham, served as minister.

Winfield Church of Christ

2007-07-07T13:27:00.000-07:00

A Brief History of the Winfield Church of Christ

Picture of old building that burned and the building as it looks today.

Preliminary Note: Much of the following is from an article written by Mrs. Belle Smith Wheeler, who complied much of the history of the church covering the early period and up until 1955

In the 1880’s and early 1890’s the traveling evangelists, Virgil and Jerry Randolph, preached occasionally in the school building located, then, in the southern part of Winfield. Virgil Randolph was the father of Mrs. Mary Smith. Jerry Randolph was her grandfather. It is reported that some of the meetings were held in the Methodist church building.

In 1895, Elisha Vickery, stepfather of Mrs. Newt Whitehead, donated the property where the first building stood. A wood frame store building occupied the property at the time. Windows were put in and the store building was thus made into the first permanent place of worship for the church.

Church buildings in the late 1800’s and the early 1900’s were all about the same style in architecture. The floors were wide wooden boards. Pot-bellied stoves, which burned wood and later coal, were used to heat the buildings. In this building rubberized runners were placed in the isles, supposedly, to keep down the squeaking of the floors.

In worship one or two cups were used for communion and linens were placed both under and over the communion. Multiple cups were introduced as time passed, but the use of the linens over and under the communion continued until the church began to meet at its current location. In the 1900’s, men’s hats ere passed around to collect the offering. Sis. O.C. Lambert, formerly Sallie Russell, bought the first collection plate.

Bro. C.A. Wheeler, better know as Uncle Charlie, held the first Gospel Meeting in the building. Mrs. Newt Whitehead was the first to make confession and be baptized. Tom Smith, the father of H. T. Smith (Uncle Babe Smith), and Elisha Vickery were the first appointed elders. J. B. Whitehead and Sterling Smith served as the first deacons. According to a hand written record kept by Newton Whitehead the 24 charter members were: Elisha Vickery (elder), Thomas W. Smith (elder), J.B. Whitehead (deacon), Sterling Pate (deacon), Newton “Newt” Whitehead, F. T. McCollum, H.C. McCollum, Martha C. Vickery, Rebecca E. Whitehead, Della Whitehead, Joseph M. Whitehead, Dora Whitehead, M.M. “Katie” Smith, J.B. Vickery, Leah P. Vickery, Aughtie Aston, Mollie Aston, Caroline McCollum, Rosa Belle Vickery, Mrs. L,A, Smith, Frank allen, John W. Janey, Mattie Earnest, and H.C. Holcomb.

Bro. C.A. Wheeler continued to preach once a month and held meetings in the summer for 6 more years. G. A. Dunn, Sr., who was at that time president of Alabama Christian College then located at Berry, AL, preached monthly and held summer meetings for 2 or 3 years. Some of the other evangelists who served the congregation in conducting Gospel Meetings were: John Allen Hudson, Willie Lloyd, C.R. Nichol, A.G. Freed, John T. Lewis, E.R. Harper, John D. Cox, Gus Nichols, Foy E. Wallace, Jr., Sam Chambers, John O’Dowd, and N.B. Hardeman.

The norm of that day was two weeks of Gospel Meetings. The visiting evangelist would bring his own song director. In those days, song directors were in short supply. Many times, younger “preacher boys” would travel with the evangelist, as a training period. Numerous conversions were common occurrences. Hell fire and brimstone sermons would stir the hardest hearts. It was common for services to be long so babies were placed on quilts in the floors to nap during the services.

There were no regular “located” preachers at this time. Preachers known as “circuit riders” would travel from place to place preaching; sometimes only once a month at a particular location. G.A. Dunn, Sr. preached against preachers locating at one place. His idea was that all preachers would be traveling evangelists and that the Bible forbade located preachers. Large crowds attended services of the church in those days and the Church of Christ was popular with many.

After the death of Tom Smith, Newt Whitehead was appointed as elder and remained until he became unable to serve because of ill health. His brother, Buoy, was very faithful in building fires and ringing the bell for services. Buoy was married to “Miss Emma,” another faithful member. They were parents of Paul Whitehead, who wrote, “When Winfield Was Mud Streets”. Other faithful workers were Mrs. J.G. (Alice) Stalcup, and Mr. and Mrs. A. G. “Big” Williams who moved here from Amory, MS. Mr. Williams was appointed as an elder and served until his death. Reuben Rose was appointed as an elder in 1924. Chester Estes worked with the congregation for 8 years and taught in the high school.

It was in 1933 that a brick building on the original property donated by Elisha Vickery. That building stood just west of the original wood frame structure. It remained in service until it was destroyed by fire in 1957.

J.O. Jones built a home, later purchased by Marshall and Annie Lou May, located on highway 78E, and worked with the congregation for 5 years. During this time, in 1940, Sterling Pate was appointed as an elder. John McClesky and family were the first to occupy a new preacher’s home which was built in back of the church building on a lot which was bought adjoining the original church property. He lived here 3 years. Jimmy Faulkner followed him and worked here 3 years. W.S. Thompson worked with the church for 2 years and taught in the high school. Curtis W. Posey came next for 2 years, then Ferris Havard for 1 year. The Marshall Wyers family came in 1954.

After the fire destroyed the building in 1957, property was acquired and the present building erected at 107 N. Second Street which is just off highway 78 E. (When the proposed E-911 addresses became operable the address will be Apache Street.) Dedication services were held on May 4, 1958. In 1975 and Educational Building was built adjacent to the church building and in 1986 a Fellowship Room and additional classrooms were added to the back of the Educational Building.

Following the erection of the present building ministers who have served include: Marshall Wyers (15 years), Bryan Howell (4 years), Lomax Green (1 year), Steve Pope (1 year), Kenneth Bray (2 years), Buren “Bill” Cox (8 years), and James F. Wyers (son of Marshall Wyers, serving 12 years to date). Since the erection of the present building those who have served as elders, in addition to those previously mentioned, include: John Harbin, Marshall Wyers, R.L. Garner, Hewitt Addison, Eugene Holt and Dale Housh.

Some of the very early family names which graced the Wnfield church include: Vickery, Smith, Allen, Earnest, Whitehead, McCollum, Aston, Haney, Russell, White, Anthony, Barnes, Williams, Rose, and of course, many others.

Among the most interesting and colorful characters of the early era included W. G. Pemberton. Bro. Pemberton was somewhat of a drifter. He came into Winfield and worked as a sign painter and artist. He painted murals in baptisteries and in homes. The Pate family hired him to paint a water scene in their bathroom. The Burgess Anthony family had several of his paintings, and one now hangs in the City Diner building. Bro. Pemberton was a self taught artist, with a unique style all his own.

Perhaps, he was best known for painting sermon charts for Bro. Gus Nichols. Many very well remember hearing Bro. Nichols preach from these colorful charts, Bro Penberton would take a white sheet and paint the lessons with great care and precision. These lessons became works of art. Some of our members are privileged to have some of these charts in their possession at the present time. Young people were fascinated by the charts. This is a lost art, with all of the technological learning taking its place. Many treasure those “bye gone days” more and more, as the years roll by.

It was through Bro. Pemberton’s sermon painting that he was converted. His wife would check the scriptures for accuracy before “Pem” would paint anything. After his conversion, he became a diligent Bible student, which led him into teaching and later preaching. He taught an adult Bible class in the second meeting house. Later, he built a church building on the east side of town what was known as the Chapel Hill Church of Christ. He became a beloved gospel preacher, overcoming a drug and alcohol addiction during his conversion. Because of asthma, he moved to Knoxville, TN where the air was better. He longed for east Winfield, but never did move back. He sold the white stucco house to Sterling Pate. The Pates and Pembertons were very good friends and the Pate family is still in possession of a letter from Bro. Pemberton, which he signed “The Fishing Parson.” Many lives were blessed by the Pemberton family.

Methods of teaching have gone from Bible only to include the use of lesson quarterlies, and commentaries for the adults. The children’s classes have gone from a simple card lesson to books, puppets and other audio-visuals. Many other outward changes would be obvious even to the casual observer. However, in spite of human imperfections, the congregation has remained true to the ideal of commitment to simple New Testament Christianity and is currently active in many good endeavors to spread the gospel and do good unto all.

We truly owe a great debt of gratitude to those pioneers who have paved the way for us and enjoy the fruit of their labors and warm by fires we did not build. Truly, “their works do follow them.”

On this our 100th Anniversary, we thank God for the work of faith and labor of love of our forefathers. Most of all we thank God for giving Jesus to die for our sins and purchase the church with his own precious blood.

Note: Brother James F. Wyers starting preaching for the Winfield Church of Christ after his father, Marshall Wyers, passed away in 1986 and is still preaching there as of July 2007.

Sandusky Church of Christ

2007-07-07T10:10:00.000-07:00

Sandusky Congregation

by

Uncle Jim Kendrick

In thinking back over the activities of the Church here at Sandusky, I realize what the Lord said and meant in Luke 17:19, "When ye shall have done all the things that are commanded you, say we are unprofitable servants; we have only done that which it was our duty to do." A good wife, a wonderful group of brethern with whom to be associated, God's tender mercies and guidance, are responsible for all that has been accomplished here since the Church had its beginning. I do not know how much of the history of the Sandusky Church the readers may be interested in, but it is my hope that the following may help us to better understand some of its ups and downs.

Sandusky Church had its beginning in 1928 in the Odd Fellows Hall, which was at 537 Shelby Street. Five members were present at the first meeting, the preaching being done by Bro. L. G. Thomas of North Birmingham congregation. At the close of the meeting one came forward and was baptized, making the membership six. These Sunday afternoon meetings were continued for a time, with different preachers doing the preaching. After several months we began a Sunday morning Bible class followed by the worship service. This continued for about two years sometimes with preaching in the morning services, and sometimes not. Brother John T. Lewis held a one-week mission meeting at about this time, and consequently we had grown to about 12 members. At this time we had been in the Odd Fellows Hall about three and one-half years.

About 1932 which was during the depression days, the County Board of Education let us have a room in the old school building to worship in. It took quite a bit of work to get the rooms suitable for study and worship. We bought some chairs and equipment and moved in the old school building.

About 1932 which was during the depression days, the County Board of Education let us have a room in the old school building to worship in. It took quite a bit of work to get the rooms suitable for study and worship. We bought some chairs and equipment and moved in the old school building. We now had both morning and night services. I believe it was Brother Morton who preached for us at this time, and we began having a Wednesday night study class. Brother Morton was a member of the West End Church. We had been in the school building about 18 months when the school board asked us to move, saying, they had to have it back for school classes. So, back to the Odd Fellows Hall we went. We stayed there about 18 months. The county at this time began to dismantle the old school building and with the Odd Fellows Hall being upstairs, this left us in quite a situation, without a place to meet and worship. The school building was moved to the site where it now stands. This move caused some of our members to go to North Birmingham Church, some to the Ensley congregation and some to other Churches.

We soon saw the need for the Church in this community, and we began immediately to meet in one of the brethren's home. This we did for about one year. In 1937 we bought and moved into the old Methodist Church building. Brother J.G. Pruitt, then one of the Elders at North Birmingham Church started preaching, evening and Wednesday night services and studies. While on this building we bought two lots where the present Church building is location. We also started a building fund. Our membership at this time had risen to about 25. We borrowed $300.00 from the bank to elp pay for the old building we bought; the Church at West End payed half of the payments for us. After a while of struggling as best we could, never giving up hope, we were in a position to repay the money that the West End Church had helped us with. I went to the brethren at West End and told them we were ready to settle up with them, and Brother Crum whom we loved very much for his works sake, said to me, "You brethren don't owe us anything, just forget it." You can't imagine how happy this made us here, knowing that we still had brethren on whom we could depend in time of need.

There were members at this time who lived in the Adamsville community and we started the Church there, first by buying a building in about 1940. We lost several members to the Church in that community, of which we were happy to be a part of. By the year 1946 we had enough money in the building fund to start on our new building, which is now the fellowship hall. We went ahead and sold the old building for $1600. and with a little borrowed to go with it, in the summer of 1947 we moved into the new building. We had three classrooms in the basement at that time.

In 1949 we had 45 members. Several of these lived in the Mulga community and consequently the Church was started there. We gave up 15 members to the congregation. In 1950 we brought the house and lot on the southeast side of the Church building and repaired the house and made it livable, using it for the preacher's home. In 1953 we had to add more classrooms in the basement of the Church building, so we added three more classrooms and two bathrooms. By the year 1956 we had grown so that we needed more auditorium room and more classrooms too. So we built a wing on the northwest side of the new auditorium and the fellowship hall.

In 1957 the Hillview Church was started and I believe we gave up 22 members to the Church in that community. However our Church in ths community continued to grow until in the 1963 we still needed more classrooms, so we bought a lot on Dover Lane and built the new home for the preacher. We then used the old preacher's home for classrooms. In 1962 or 63 we bought two lots on the present time the new auditorium is built.

The Sandusky Church is now about 48 years old. We were about as strong as could be expected for our size and talent and ability which limited in many respects. We had much difficulty in the beginning moving from place to olace for about nine years. It was about this long that we were in the first frame building, or maybe it was 10 years. We built the first brick building on Pratt Highway and stayed there for 21 years.

Later in 1966, plans were made for the construction of a new spacious auditorium to be erected on the two lots northwest of the brick building on Pratt Highway. It was during this time that T. A. Thompson left Sandusky and Norman Parrish moved in. By 1967 plans had been drawn up, the contract awarded and construction started on this new auditorium, designed to seat 700 people including a balcony, was finally completed and adjoined to the first brick building.

We now have 185 members and I can tell you things sure do look different now from what they did back in 1928.

I will now attempt to name the preachers we have had here at Sandusky down through the years.First there was J.G. Pruitt, W.S. Thompson, W.W. Wade, Raymond McLeroy, Paul Shoulders, Charles London, T.A. Thompson, Norman Parrish, Dan Jenkins, Thurmon Hubbert, Kenneth Jarrett, and Steve Walker.

Let me say a word about some of the meetings and the men who preached in those mission meetings. We had men like John T. Lewis, Gus Nichols, John D. Cox, Gardner Hall, E.A. Emonds and many others who sacrificed their time and talent for the cause of Christ in this community. I will not attempt to name all the preachers who have held gospel meetings for us in our present building, however, here are a few that I recall- Gus Nichols, Homer D. Daniel, O.C. Lambert, G.C. Brewer, Edsel Burleson, W.C. Quillen, A.R. Hill and many others perhaps that have escaped my memory. The gospel has been preached and supported by Sandusky from the pulpit, radio, television, letters of correspondence, house to house and by person.

I feel that much good has been accomplished as a result of the Sandusky Church. Several congregations have been started by the brethren here. This is as it should be. God expects His people to be like bees-busy.

The Elders at this time are; T.D. Donaldson, C.A. Prater and Armon Randolph. The Deacons are Bill Brewer, Hershel Franklin, Roy Jernigan, Alvie Johnson, Howell Kennedy, John Parrish, Bill Quinn, Cecil Parker, Tom Roby and Elvis Townley.

As I close this history of the Church at Sandusky, I would like to say I have done my best to relate only those experiences that will edify and help someone. With love in my heart for every soul I know, and a prayer that many more souls I know, and a prayer that many more souls will be led to Christ by this congregation. As my years are fast drawing to a close I say to all of you, "God bless every heart that reads this brief bit if history."

Churches of Christ in Birmingham

2007-07-07T10:05:00.000-07:00

Article was in a News Paper around 1950

About the turn of the century members of the Church of Christ in Birmingham ceased to meet in private homes and secured the use of "Fox's Hall" on the third floor of a building at fourth avenue north and 16th street for their services. After hearing Brother John T. Lewis through a tent meeting at Pratt City, the little band of disciples got him to move here on November 16, 1907.

When Brother Lewis first came to this town, sectarian congregations already dotted the whole of the county, but he only found a handful of less than twenty members interested in simply following the teaching of the New Testament in its purity and simplicity. He has seen the cause spread throughout the city until today there are some seventeen congregations carrying on the work of the Church in and around Birmingham.

When Brother Lewis was asked by the Steel City Star to write something on his fortieth anniversary in Birmingham concerning his work, he wrote: "I was in town this morning Monday November 17, 1947 and walked down Fourth Avenue and Nineteenth Street and looked at the old three story building on the northwest corner, and walked up the first flight of steps, the very steps that I walked up on my way to the third loft forty years ago this morning to worship with, and preach to, the few disciples that met there t break bread.

That was the beginning of my work in this great city. J.M. Barnes and I held a tent meeting in Pratt City during August and September of the same year. It was during taht meeting that I received unanimous invitation from worshiping in "Fox's Hall" to come and labor with them.

The small crowd that met in that hall that morning moved into a small frame building in March 1910 on the lot where the present commodious West End Meeting house stands, and it has multiplied itself several times during the forty years that have come and gone since that Sunday morning.

For forty years in this great city I have waged a relentless warfare against the inventions and devices of men, in religious matters, against wickedness in high places, and corruption and immortality in the Church. I have had my teachings challenged by religious teachers a few times; I have excepted their challenge and met them in open discussion."

During the years past, tent meetings have been held in most of the suburbs and various sections of the city. In addition to these meetings, classes have been taught and sermons delivered in private homes and in halls throughout the city.

As the cause grew, our gospel preachers came to the city and joined in the great work. Today there are some seventeen congregations of the Church of Christ within the Birmingham district among the white people and nine congregations among the colored. Among the white congregations, besides those shown on this page, there are congregations at Morris, Brookside and Adamsville. The cause is growing now more rapidly than ever before. Two new congregations, with brick buildings, have been established within the last year, and others are planned for the future.

Church of Christ Buildings

2007-07-07T09:14:00.000-07:00

Here are a number of Churches of Christ buildings pictured above that were started in Birmingham in the early 1900's. The article was published in the West End Bulletin when I attended the services there around 1978 but was printed in a local news paper around 1950:

Belview Heights- a new congregation started the year this article was printed in the paper probably around 1949 by the Fairview congregation. The building was located Ave. Q and 44th Street. One half Block off Bessemer Road. Minister, Flavil Nichols.

Bessemer-This congregation was started as a mission from the West End Church in 1923. The present property was bought in the early 30's. In 1946 the frame building was torn down and supplanted by a brick bungalow type house which has now been converted into a preacher's home. The present building was occupied in May of 1948. Minister, Gardner H. Hall.

Berney Points-This congregation was first known as the Parkview congregation, but moved to the present location in 1945. The building is located at 1744 Steiner Ave Southwest. Minister, Farris J. Smith.

Central-The Central Church was started in June, 1941, by the West End congregation. This congregation is now sponsoring the work at Leeds.The building is at Seventh Ave and 25th Street North. Minister-Maurice M. Howell.

Seventy Seventh Street(East Lake)-A new congregation, started in January of this year by the Woodlawn Church. The building is at 77th Street and First Avenue, South. Bruce Crawley and Sewell St. John preach for the congregation at the present. Granville Tyler will be the evangelist after Jan. 1st, 1950.

Sandusky-This congregation met for the first time in its own meeting house in 1939. The present building was erected in 1947 and is located in Sandusky on the old 78 Highway. Minister. J.D. Barnes.

Ensley-The Ensley congregation was started in 1926 by the Woodlawn Church. The present building located at Ave E and 30th Street, was completed in July of this year. Minister, John T.Lewis.

Fairview-This congregation was established in May of 1938 by the Ensley Church, The building is located at 2501 30th Street. Flavil Nichols, Minister, is devoting most of his time to the recently established Belview Heights congregation, while E. H. Vines preaches for this church.

Lewisburg-This congregation started at New Castle in 1913. It moved to Lewisburg in 1923. The present building is located two blocks West of Highway 31 on Walkers Chapel Road. Minister, J.D. Barnes.

North Birmingham- The church in North Birmingham was started in 1920 by the West End congregation. The meeting house is located at 25th Street and 34th Ave. North. Temporary minister, Sewell Hall.

Trussville- The Trussville congregation was started 5 1942 by the West End Church. Later, the Woodlawn Church assisted with the work. The present building was completed in 1947. Minister, E.L. Wade.

Woodlawn- Established in 1914 by the West End congregation. Present building is at 9 South 60th Street. This Church has recently purchased the large corner lot at 59th Street and First Avenue, South as a site for a new building. Minister, Herschel E. Patton.

Brother Vanderbilt Pierpont "V.P." Black

2007-07-07T08:36:00.000-07:00

1918-2007

It was in June of 1989. My family was living in Haleyville, Alabama, preparing to depart for mission work in New Zealand that rapidly-approaching August. My grandfather, an elder at the South Haleyville church, said one day, "Let's go to Crossroads tonight and hear V.P. Black."

So, on that sticky, hot summer night, we went down in the country to hear one of the 20th Century's greatest gospel preachers. When we entered the little country church building, I saw this small framed man, with curly black hair combed straight back. He had black-rimmed glasses. He was wearing a white suit and white shoes. Not a wrinkle could be found in his polished appearance.

When the services began, the building was packed with people. The songs were sung, the prayers were prayed, and the invitation song was announced, then the man in white took to the podium. He began his sermon as many do, soft-toned, kind and gentle. Not a time did he look at a note, but with exactness and clarity, he proceeded to preach the gospel of Jesus. It was not long before his passion for the message was felt by all in the attendance. His voice got louder, and more convicting with every quotation of passage upon passage of Scripture. That man of God preached on the level of such intensity, that at times his face turned blood red. Contrasted with the white suit he wore, the awe inspired audience in that little country church in North Alabama, sat without so much as a blink of the eye for over an hour. What a preacher! What passion! What a Savior he proclaimed!

V.P. Black was born in Lamar County, Alabama, December 15, 1918. He passed from this life February 4, 2007 in Montgomery, Alabama. He was eighty eight years old. He is survived by his wife Lourine Tennison Black, two children, four grandchildren, and six great grandchildren.

He was an educated man. He attended Freed-Hardeman University for two years. he received his B.A. from Faulkner University. He held two honorary doctorate degrees. the LL.D. degree from F-HU, and the other from Southeastern University. Through honorary degrees, one could never argue that they were not earned, as for seventy years he faithfully preached the gospel of Christ. No man worked harder for Christian education than did V.P. Black. He served more that 20 years as the Vice-President of Faulkner University (formerly, Alabama Christian College.) He set up a $100,000 ministerial fund at F-HU to help prepare gospel preachers. He gave over $100,000 to Faulkner University from sales of his books. He served on the Board of Directors of Faulkner University and the board of Namwianga Christian School to underwrite the educations of hundreds of Gospel Preachers.

As a preacher, none surpassed his dedication. He served in local work for over 25 years in the city of Mobile, Alabama, and in gospel meeting work he preached over 45 years. His greatest contribution to church of Christ was in the area of teaching on stewardship. His teaching was challenging, and Biblical, often receiving strong criticism from weak brethren. But, no one lived his preaching any more evidently that dad V.P. Black. Only the Lord knows of the thousands and thousands of dollars that he and sister Black have given to the Lord's work, especially in the area of training Christian preachers and teachers.

The greatest sermon I ever heard from any preacher, was at the Freed-Hardeman University Lectures on February 9, 1993. Each year the Lectureship is dedicated to the life-work of the great church leaders. That year V.P. Black was honored. After attending the Appreciation Dinner for brother Black, which in itself was an event of honor equivalent to that of kings, this humble giant of a preacher stood before thousands that night and preached a sermon entitled, "Behold, The Christ." For 42 minutes we sat entranced and enthralled as that, then seventy-four year old, man proclaimed with spectacular acumen, the beauty of the Christ we serve!

I shall never forget this great man who touched my life, and that of my family through personal friendship and love. He was a dear friend to others in our church family here at Buford, especially to David and Carolyn Wheeler. For years David traveled with Brother Black fir gospel meetings work, when David served as his personal song leader. Others have had Brother Black into their homes, and for years held him in highest esteem. He will be greatly missed.

A great man has fallen in Israel!

by Scott Harp
Minister at Buford Church of Christ