Paulding/Polk County Georgia Church Van Wert Baptist Church (Minutes 1840 - 1870) pt 2 (1850-1859) File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by Cassandra Robertson Newby Sandinewby@aol.com Table of Contents page: http://www.usgwarchives.net/ga/paulding.htm Georgia Table of Contents: http://www.usgwarchives.net/ga/gafiles.htm The Year of 1850 January 19, 1850 Van Wert Church in conference. Brother P. M. Rice, Moderator. Opened a door for the reception of members. Received by letter E. Heslip and wife, and Brother Everette. Sister Everette being absent, the joint letter was returned until such time as she could come. Brother Rice was called on to let the Church know if he would serve them this present year, according to the choice of the Church. He answered he would do so. On motion, the Church adjourned. P. M. Rice, Moderator N. N. Edge, Clerk Pro Tem February 16, 1850 The Church met in conference. Brother Rice being absent, Brother Burton Crabb was appointed Moderator and Brother N. N. Edge, Clerk. Opened the door for the reception of members, when Brother N. N. Edge presented a letter from the Church at Cave Spring, Ga., and was received in full fellowship. Upon the request of Brother Crabb, he was released from the clerkship and Brother N. N. Edge appointed to fill his place. Brother Clerk informed the Church that there was a letter from the Agent of SBC (Southern Baptist Convention). It was read and the request for the Church to make an effort to assist the Convention in sending the Gospel to the Heathen was adopted for further consideration. On motion, adjourned. Burton Crabb, Moderator Pro Tem Newton N. Edge, Clerk March 16,1850 Van Wert Church met in conference. Brother P. M. Rice, Moderator. Opened the door for the reception of members. Brother John Pankey and Sister Elizabeth Pankey presented a letter from the United Baptist Church at Bethlehem and Sister Julia Russell from Antioch and were received in full fellowship. Took up the reference in regard to the request made by the SBC and agreed to cooperate with the Convention in the great object of sending the Gospel of Christ to the destitute. On motion, appointed Brethren Burton Crabb and B. F. Morgan a committee to make collections in order to raise a fund to send to the Southern Baptist Convention. It was stated by Brother Burton Crabb that Baptists reside in convenient distance of the Church holding Letters of Dismission from other churches. On motion, a committee was appointed to confer with such brethren, as above mentioned, and know the cause of their thus holding their letters. The above committee consists of Brethren N. N. Edge, Joseph D. Morgan, John C. Crabb. On motion, resolved that we keep up a weekly prayer meeting, and that the time of the meeting shall be on each Sabbath evening. After the reading of the minutes, adjourned. P. M. Rice, Moderator Newton N. Edge, Clerk April 19,1850 Church met in conference. Brother P. M. Rice, Moderator. Opened a door for the reception of members, when Sister Mary Willoughby presented a letter from Bethlehem Baptist Church, Union County, Georgia and was received. There being some discussion in regard to dancing. On motion, the question was taken whether a Baptist should give his countenance to dancing under any circumstances or not. Decided in the negative without a dissenting voice. Brother C. Mason made application for Letters of Dismission for himself, wife and two daughters, Mary and Caroline, which were granted. The Clerk applied for Letters of Dismission from Brother William Willoughby and his wife, Sister Sarah Willoughby, which were granted. Adjourned by prayer. Reverend P. M. Rice, Moderator Newton N. Edge, Clerk May, 1850 Baptist Church met in conference. Pastor in charge being absent, Brother Joseph Morgan Sr. was appointed Moderator. Opened the door for the reception of members when Brother S. Crabb presented a letter from Cave Spring Baptist Church and was unanimously received. On motion, agreed to send delegates to a meeting to be held at Antioch Baptist Church Friday before the fourth Sabbath in June next, to confer with delegates from different churches in the surrounding county on the most suitable location for establishing a permanent camp meeting, to be held annually at each time and place as may be agreed upon by said delegates. On motion, the Clerk was directed to let the above-named Churches know of the time and place of delegates' meeting. On motion, adjourned. Joseph Morgan, Moderator N. N. Edge, Clerk June 15, 1850 Van Wert Baptist Church met in conference. Reverend P. M. Rice, Moderator. Opened the door for the reception of members and Sister Nancy Ann Long presented a letter from Liberty Church, Gwinnett County, Georgia and was received in full fellowship. Also Mrs. Virginia A. S. Edge came before the Church and related an Experience of Grace. Made application for baptism and received full fellowship. Baptism on the morrow at 8 o'clock a.m. On motion, adjourned. P. M. Rice Moderator N. N. Edge, Clerk. June 16,1850 Met at the Creek for baptism. When the Moderator administered the rite in the usual form. N. N. Edge, Clerk July 20, 1850 Van Wert Baptist Church met in conference. Pastor being absent, on motion Brother B. Crabb was appointed Moderator. On motion, elected brethren Burton Crabb and B. F. Morgan to represent us in the Association Meeting to convene with this Church, Friday before the third Sabbath in August next. On motion, agreed to petition the General Meeting for the Association to be held at this place at the next annual meeting. On motion, went into the election of delegates to represent the Church in the Association. Resulted in the choice of Brethren Burton Crabb and J. D. Morgan and John Heaton, and G. W. Morgan their alternate. Being no other business before the Church, on motion, adjourned. Burton Crabb, Moderator N. N. Edge, Clerk August 17, 1850 Church met in conference. Elder P. M. Rice, Moderator. The Clerk read the letter appointed to be written for the Association. On motion, it was approved. There being no more business before the conference, on motion adjourned. P. M. Rice, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk September 14,1850 The Pastor being absent, Brother Lacy of Carroll County was requested to act as Moderator in his stead. On application of Brother John Lansing, granted Letters of Dismission to himself and wife (Sister Henrietta Lansing). There being no business before the conference, on motion adjourned. Prayer by the Moderator. Reverend Lacy, Moderator Newton N. Edge, Clerk October 19,1850 Church met in conference. Brother P. Rice, Moderator. Under the (missing) of miscellaneous business, the subject of choosing a pastor to serve the Church during the next year was brought forward, and after some deliberation, agreed to go into the choice of a pastor at next meeting. There being no other business before the conference, on motion adjourned. Prayer by Moderator. P. M. Rice, Moderator Newton N. Edge, Clerk November 16,1850 Church met in conference. Elder James Reeves, Moderator. On motion, the Church preferred a charge against Brother James Roach for intoxication and using profane and abusive language in a difficulty which unfortunately occurred between him and another Brother. On motion, appointed a committee consisting of Brethren J. D. Morgan, John Heaton and Hampton Junior to see Brother Roach and cite him to the next conference. On motion, appointed the committee to see Brother E. D. Chisolm and know of him the causes of his prolonged absence from conferences. Agreeably with an act of our last conference, went into a choice of a Pastor to serve the Church during the next year, which resulted in the unanimous call of Brother Barry. Appointed Brethren Crabb and B. F. Morgan a committee to bear a notice from the Clerk to Brother Barry and inform him of the choice of the Church. Adjourned with prayer by Elder James Reeves, Moderator. James Reeves, Moderator Newton. N. Edge, Clerk December 14,1850 Van Wert Baptist Church met in conference. Elder Barry, Moderator. Committee on Brother James Roach reported charge sustained. On motion the committee was discharged. The question of fellowship with Brother Roach was taken and he was unanimously excluded from the Church. The Committee appointed to see Brother E. D. Chisolm was continued till next meeting. The committee appointed to wait on Brother Barry was called on and Brother Barry being present, responded to the call of the Church, consenting to serve in the capacity of pastor for the next year. In agreement with the request of the Agent of Foreign Missionary Board for a committee to be appointed by each Church to collect a small amount from each member to be appropriated to the use of foreign missions. On motion, appointed the following committee: On the part of the Males, Brother G. W. Morgan; the females, Sister Martha Ann Morgan. On motion, adjourned. Prayer by Brother Barry. Elder Barry, Moderator Newton N. Edge, Clerk FOR THE ASSOCIATIONAL YEAR 1850 Number of Members Received Nov. 17 By Letter Sister Sarah G. Mears Jan. 19 By Letter Brother E. Heslip Jan. 19 By Letter Sister Heslip Jan. 19 By Letter Brother Everett Jan. 19 By Letter Sister Everett Feb. 16 By Letter Brother N. N. Edge March 15 By Letter Brother John Pankey March 15 By Letter Sister Elizabeth Pankey March 15 By Letter Sister Julia Russell April 19 Mary Willoughby May 19 Brother S. J. Crabb June 15 By Letter Sister Nancy Ann Long June 15 By Experience and Baptism Sister Virginia A. S. Edge Total up to August 17, 1850 amounts 56 FOR THE ASSOCIATIONAL YEAR 1851 Number of Members Received By Letter Cynthia DeHay By Letter Mary Ann DeHay By Letter Margaret Epperson FOR THE ASSOCIATIONAL YEAR 1852 Number of Members Received By Experience and Baptism B. T. DeHay By Experience and Baptism J. W. Crabb By Letter Manning Cain By Letter Sister Cain By Experience J. R. Morgan By Experience T. J. Walton By Experience Nancy Morgan By Experience York, black By Letter R. W. Whitehead (Deacon) By Letter Sister E. A. Whitehead By Letter M. E. M. York By Letter Rhoda Wright FOR THE ASSOCIATIONAL YEAR 1850 Number Dismissed Dec. 15 Dismissed by Letter Sister J. Scott Dec. 15 Dismissed by Letter Brother James Scott Dec. 15 Dismissed by Letter Sister Susan Scott Dec. 15 Dismissed by Letter Sister Elizabeth Leathers Dismissed by Letter Brother T. Burk Dismissed by Letter Sister Amanda Burk Dismissed by Letter F.E. Burk Dismissed by Letter Sister Malinda Burk Dismissed by Letter Brother C. Mason Dismissed by Letter Sister Elizabeth Mason Dismissed by Letter Mary Mason Dismissed by Letter Caroline Mason Dismissed by Letter Sarah Willoughby Dismissed by Letter Brother William Willoughby Total up to August 17, 56 FOR THE ASSOCIATIONAL YEAR 1851 Number Dismissed Sept. 14, Dismissed by Letter Brother John Lansing Dismissed by Letter Henrietta Lansing Excommunicated James Roach Dismissed Brother Hampton Junior Dismissed by Letter Sister Davis Total 54 FOR THE ASSOCIATIONAL YEAR 1852 Dismissed by Letter Burton Crabb Dismissed by Letter Sister Crabb Dismissed by Letter Clementine Crabb Dismissed by Letter F. B. Crabb Dismissed by Letter T. J. Crabb Excommunicated S.J. Crabb Excommunicated E. Heslip Total up to September 57 Dismissed by Letter W. R. Crabb Dismissed by Letter T. J. Walton The Year of 1851 January 18,1851 Baptist Church at Van Wert met in conference. On motion, Brother B. Crabb was called to act as Moderator. On motion, Brethren John Heaton and J. D. Morgan were appointed a committee to see Brethren Harrison and S. J. Crabb and cite them to attend next conference and answer to a charge for misconduct as Church Members before the Body. On motion, adjourned. Burton Crabb, Moderator N. N. Edge, Clerk February 1851 is missing. March 15,1851 Church met in conference. Brother Barry, Moderator. Opened a door for the reception of members and received by letter Sister Cynthia and Maryann DeHay from Yellow Creek Church, Hall County, Georgia and Sister Margaret Epperson from Macedonia Church, Bradley County, Tennessee. Brother S. J. Crabb answered to a charge made by the Church for intoxication in an acknowledgement which was received. Brother John Harrison made an explanation in regard to some difficulty, which was satisfactory. On application granted a Letter of Dismission to Brother H. Junior. W. Barry, Moderator B. Crabb, Church Clerk Pro Tem April 19, 1851 Met in conference. Pastor in charge, Moderator. Took up the reference in regard to the prolonged absence of Brother E. D. Chisolm. Brother Chisolm being present, stated to the Church that his professional duties had hindered him from attending church meetings as regularly as he had desired to do and that in the future, he would try to be more punctual, which statement was unanimously satisfactory to the Church. On motion, adjourned. W. Barry, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk May 17,1851 Van Wert Baptist Church met in conference. Brother Barry, Moderator. Application was made by Sister M. Davis for a Letter of Dismission which was granted. There being no other business before the conference, on motion, adjourned. W. Barry, Moderator N. N. Edge, Clerk June 14, 1851 Van Wert Baptist Church met in conference. Elder P. M. Rice, Moderator. Being no business before the Body, on motion, adjourned. P. M. Rice, Moderator Newton N. Edge, Clerk July 19, 1851 Church met in conference. Brother Barry, Moderator. The subject of preparation for the Association was brought up, and on motion, a committee of was appointed to select a suitable location for the harbor to accommodation of the Congregation during the session of the Body in the House. The committee consists of Brethren G. W. Morgan, Burton Crabb, John Heaton, N. N. Edge, and J. D. Morgan. On motion elected Brethren Burton Crabb and G. W. Morgan to represent us in the Association, and Brother J. Heaton alternate. Appointed Brethren W. R., Crabb and G. W. Morgan delegates to the General Meeting to convene at Salem, Friday before the Fifth Sabbath in August next, with the privilege of selecting an alternate. On motion, adjourned. Elder W. Barry, Moderator Newton N. Edge, Clerk August 16, 1851 Church met in conference. Brother Barry, Moderator. Heard the committee of arrangements for the Association, which was received, and the committee discharged. The Clerk presented and read the letters to the Association and General Meeting and they were approved by the Church. On motion, appointed a committee to see to the accommodation of visiting brethren and friends from a distance during the session of the Association. The above committee consists of Brethren G. W. Morgan, B. F. Morgan, N. N. Edge, J. C. Crabb, John Heaton. Being no other business before the body, on motion, adjourned. Elder W. Barry, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk September 16,1851 Tuesday Evening. Church met in conference. Opened a door for the reception of members and Mr. B. T. DeHay came forward and related an Experience of Grace upon which he was unanimously received. At ½ after 9 o'clock on Sabbath Morning, the 21st, Baptism was administered to Brother B. T. DeHay according to Baptist custom. Adjourned. W. Barry Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk September 20,1851 Met in conference. Brother Barry, Moderator. Opened the door for the reception of members, when Mr. Elijah Browning came forward and stated to the Church that he had once been a member of the Baptist Church, had had his Letter of Dismission, but had misplaced it and could not find it. He also stated that he had lived far from his privilege and duty as a member of that Church. For such conduct, he hoped the Lord had forgiven him. On motion, Brother Browning was taken under the care of the Church until a letter of some information could be procured from the church of which he was formerly a member. On motion, Brethren N. N. Edge, Burton Crabb and G. W. Morgan were appointed a committee to assist Brother Browning in getting some information in relation to his case. On motion, agreed to go into the choice of a pastor to supply us during the year 1852 at the next regular conference. Adjourned. Walter Barry, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk October 18, 1851 Church met in conference. Brother Barry, Moderator. On motion, continued the committee on Brother Browning's church letter membership and others. In accordance with a previous act of the Church, went into the choice of a pastor to serve the Church in the year 1852. Resulted in the unanimous election of Elder Spencer Harvey of Fayette County, Georgia. On motion, appointed Brethren N. N. Edge and B. F. Morgan a committee to wait on Brother Harvey and inform him of the choice of the Church. On motion directed the Clerk to write a subscription for the support of the ministry at this Church for the year 1851 and handed the same over to the Deacons with names of each male member attached to it. Being no other business before the Church, on motion adjourned. W. Barry, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk November 15, 1851 Church met in conference. N. N. Edge, Moderator. Heard report of committee to see Brother Harvey in regard to taking the pastoral charge of this Church during the next year. Reported that they had received no answer. Committee discharged. On motion, a charge was presented by the Church against Brother S. J. Crabb for drunkenness. Appointed a committee on the above charge, consisting of J. Heaton and J. D. Morgan. On motion, the Church withdrew her watch care from over E. Browning. Went into an election for pastor for next year. Resulted in the unanimous choice of Elder P. M. Rice. Appointed J. Heaton and J. D. Morgan to wait on Brother Rice and inform him of the choice of the Church and request his compliance with the same. On motion, adjourned. N. N. Edge, Moderator J. C. Crabb, Clerk Pro Tem December 20,1851 Met in conference. N. N. Edge, Moderator. On motion, Brother B. F. Morgan acted Clerk. Committee on Brother S. J. Crabb, stated that the reports in relation to Brother Crabb's unchristian conduct was true and they as a committee sustained the charge. Whereupon on motion, he was excommunicated by the Church. Committee appointed to see Brother Rice was continued till next meeting. On motion, adjourned. B. F. Morgan, Clerk Pro Tem The Year of 1852 January 17,1852 Church met in conference. Reverend W. Barry, Moderator. Called for the report of the committee appointed to see Brother Rice and stated that Brother Rice would be here at the present conference and would give the Church a satisfactory answer in regard to the pastorial charge of the Church during the present year. The committee discharged. On motion, adjourned. W. Barry, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk February 14,1852 Van Wert Baptist Church met in conference. Joseph Morgan Sr., Moderator. On application granted a Letter of Dismission to Sister Margaret Epperson. On motion, appointed the following committee to procure a pulpit and seats for the Church, viz., J. R. Heaton, G. W. Morgan, J. C. Crabb. On motion, adjourned. Joseph Morgan, Moderator G. W. Morgan, Church Clerk Pro Tem March 20,1852 Met in conference. Brother Rice, Moderator. Took up reference in regard to building pulpit, making seats and called for committee's report. Brother G. W. Morgan, one of the committee stated that he had made arrangements to have the work done, which was satisfactory to the Church. Brother Rice agreed to take the pastorial charge of the Church during the present year, in answer to the call of the Church made in December last. On motion, agreed to change the time of holding conference from Saturday before the 3rd Sabbath to the Saturday before the 2nd. On motion, adjourned. P.M. Rice, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk APRIL 1852 IS MISSING May 8, 1852 Church met in conference. Brother Porterfield, Moderator. On motion, a charge was preferred against Brother E. H. Heslip for intoxication and profanity and the following committee appointed on the charge, to wit, Brethren B. F. and G. W. Morgan. Appointed Brethren B. Crabb and B. F. Morgan delegates to represent the Church in convention to be held near Rome, to take into consideration the propriety of forming a new Association. On motion, granted Letters of Dismission to Brother B. Crabb and Wife and Sister Clementine Crabb and Brother T. J. Crabb. On motion, adjourned. Porterfield, Moderator N. N. Edge, Clerk June 12,1852 Church met in conference. P. M. Rice, Moderator. References called for and the case of Brother E. Heslip was taken up. Heard the report of the committee and from that report, the Church decided the charge sustained and he was excommunicated. Appointed Brethren G. W. Morgan and John Heaton to represent this body in the next General Meeting. B. F. Morgan, alternate. On motion, agreed to go into the Election of Deacon at our next regular meeting. Being no other business before the Church, on motion, adjourned. P. M. Rice, Moderator N. N. Edge, Clerk July 10, 1852 Church met in conference. Brother Rice, Moderator. Opened door of the Church and Jesse W. Crabb presented himself and related an Experience of Grace and was unanimously received for baptism. Elected Brethren G. W. Morgan and John Harrison, N. N. Edge alternate, to represent the Church in the next annual meeting of the Association, to convene with the Church at Liberty Hill, Saturday before the second Sabbath in September next. On motion, agreed to send $1.50 for minutes and $5.00 for conventional purposes. On application, granted a Letter of Dismission to Brother F. B. Crabb. Attend to baptism at 9 o'clock in the morning. Took up the reference on our last minutes in relation to the choice of another Deacon for the Church. On motion, went into the election, which resulted in the choice of Brother N. N. Edge to fill that responsible office. Agreed to meet on Saturday before the 3rd Sabbath in August next to attend to the duties of ordination. Adjourned till tomorrow at 9 o'clock. P. M. Rice, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk July 11, 1852 Sabbath morning, 9 o'clock. Church met and attended to the ordinance of baptism in the usual mode. Adjourned. August 14, 1852 Church met in conference. P. M. Rice, Moderator. Church opened the door for the reception of members and received Sister Everett by letter. Read and adopted the letter to the Association. Owing to some unexpected disaffection of one of the brethren, Brother N. N. Edge withdrew his name from the Presbytery formed for the ordination of a Deacon. On motion, the ordination was postponed "sine die." On motion, adjourned. P. M. Rice, Moderator N. N. Edge, Clerk August 17, 1852 The door of the Church was opened. Brother M. Cane and Wife Sister Cain was received by letter and Mr. J. R. Morgan by Experience. August 18, 1852 Opened the door of the Church and received Mrs. Frances Crabb and Mr. T. J. Walton by Experience and were baptised. Also York, a colored brother belonging to William Hitchcock. P. M. Rice, Moderator September 18, 1852 Church met in conference. Brother P. M. Rice, Moderator. There being no business before the Church, on motion, adjourned. P. M. Rice, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk OCTOBER, 1852 IS MISSING November 13,1852 The Church met in conference. other P. M. Rice, Moderator. The matter of ordination being brought up. On motion, agreed to go into the ordination at our December conference and that Brethren James Reeves and H. A. Williams be requested to attend and assist in the same. Farther agreed to go into the choice of a pastor at the same time. On motion, adjourned. P. M. Rice, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk December 11, 1852 Church met in conference. Brother Rice, Moderator. Under article of reference, the subject of Deacon's Ordination was brought up. There not being a Presbytery present, agreed to postpone that ordinance until Saturday in February next, and the same brethren be invited, with the addition of Brother Peek. Agreed at the same time to go into the choice of pastor to serve us for next year. On application of Brother Edge, granted a Letter of Dismission to Sister Sarah Griffin. On motion, adjourned. P. M. Rice, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk The Year of 1853 January 8, 1853 Met in conference. The pastor being absent, Brother Burton Crabb took the Moderator's seat. On application, granted Letters of Dismission to T. J. Walton and W. R. Crabb. There being no other business on motion, adjourned. Burton Crabb, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk February 12,1853 The Church met in conference. Brother N. N. Edge, Moderator. The door of the Church being opened, Sister M. E. M. York presented a letter and was unanimously received. Postponed indefinitely the ordination of a Deacon. Took up the reference in regard to the choice of a pastor for the present year which resulted in the unanimous election of Brother Thackerson. Brethren N. N. Edge and G. W. Morgan were appointed to confer with Brother Thackerson and inform him of the choice of the Church and request his compliance of the same. On motion, appointed Brethren J. D. Morgan and J. C. Crabb a committee to see to the procuring of benches and pulpit for the Church and report at the next meeting. On motion, adjourned. N. N. Edge, Moderator J. W. Crabb, Clerk Pro Tem March 12,1853 The Church met in conference. Brother N. N. Edge, Moderator and Brother J. C. Crabb, Clerk. Opened the door for the reception of members, when Sister Rhoda Wright presented a letter from a regular Baptist Church and received to membership. The committee appointed to see Brother Thackerson and inform him of the choice of the Church reported that Brother Thackerson would be here on Friday before the first Sabbath in April and then would give the Church an answer. The committee appointed to see to the furnishing of seats and pulpit for the Church reported that they had employed Brother G. W. Morgan to make the seats for $25.00, which report was received and committee discharged. On motion, adjourned. N. N. Edge, Moderator J. C. Crabb, Church Clerk April 9,1853 Church met in conference. Brother N. N. Edge, Moderator. Opened a door for the reception of members when Brother Raleigh W. Whitehead (a Deacon) was received on a Letter of Dismission from Greenfield Baptist in Virginia. Also Sister E. A. Whitehead on a letter from the same church. The proposition of Brother Thackerson to serve the Church on Friday before the first Sabbath in the month was received. Also agreed to call Brother James Reeves to serve the Church at our regular meetings and that Brother Edge should inform Brother Reeves of the call of the Church. On motion, agreed to license Brother N. N. Edge to exercise in public. By request of Brother N. N. Edge, reconsidered a former act of the Church in regard to his election to a Deacon's post and relieve him from the same. Done in conference. N. N. Edge, Moderator B. F. Morgan, Clerk May 7,1853 Church met in conference. Elder James Reeves, Moderator. Opened a door of the Church when Sister Martha McCollum, Catherine Nolly, and Sarah Everett joined by letters and E. K. Garner and wife, Martha Garner, by Experience and Baptism. Brother R. Morgan sent up an acknowledgement which was received and accepted as a pledge to his future Christian deportment. Took up the reference in regard to the choice of Brother Reeves to take the pastorial care of the Church. He being present, agreed to comply with the Church's call On motion, adjourned. James Reeves, Moderator N. N. Edge, Clerk June 1,1853 Opened a door for the reception of members and Dixon McCollum came forward and was received by Experience and Baptism. Thackerson, Moderator N. N. Edge, Clerk June 11, 1853 Church met in conference. Brother James Reeves, Moderator. Received by letter Brethren B. E. Whitehead, A. J. Whitehead, James S. Whitehead, Sisters Martha Whitehead and Mary Jane Whitehead. Also Brother Jabez Rosser and Sister Rosser and Pleasant, the servant of Brother Whitehead. Appointed Brother J. C. Crabb to see Brother J. R. Morgan in regard to his communication to the Church and inform him of the action of the Church on the same. Note in margin: Brother B. E. Whitehead received as a Deacon. On motion, went into the election of the delgates to the union meeting to be held with the Shilow Church on Friday before the (unreadable) in (unreadable). Resulted in N. N. Edge, G. W. Morgan and B. E. Whitehead, alternate, being appointed. A committee consisting of Brethren B. E. Whitehead, G. W. Morgan, J. C. Crabb to employ someone to keep the Church in good order, light it and C? Brother Reeves agreed to preach the funeral of Elder P. M. Rice, deceased. On the fourth Sabbath in July next. Agreed to commune tomorrow. On motion, adjourned. Elder James Reeves, Moderator N. N. Edge, Clerk TRANSCRIBER'S NOTE: This page was mixed up. Here is how I believe it was meant to read. Cassandra R. Newby July 9,1853 Church met in conference. Elder James Reeves, Moderator. On motion, the case of Brother James R. Morgan was continued, on the account of the committee wanting more time. The committee appointed to see to the taking care of the Church reported that they had employed Mr. J. W. De Hay for twelve months and agreed to pay him five dollars for the same. On motion, appointed Brother B. E. Whitehead, Church Treasurer. On motion, agreed to commence a protracted meeting on Saturday before the fourth Sabbath' in this instant. Appointed Brethren N. N. Edge and B. E. Whitehead to represent the Church in the Association and Brother R. Whitehead, alternate. Agreed to send two dollars for Associational minutes, and one for Conventional minutes. On motion, adjourned. James Reeves, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk July 26,1853 The Church met in conference. Brother James Reeves, Moderator. Opened a door of the Church, when Mr. Lester York and Mrs. Manerva Dodds presented themselves, and after relating a Christian Experience, was unanimously received for Baptism. Adjourned till tomorrow at 9 o'clock. July 27, 1853 Church met at the water, where the ordinance of baptism was administered by Elder James Reeves upon the above candidates. James Reeves, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk August1853 is missing. September 1853 is missing. October 8, 1853 Church met in conference. Elder James Reeves, Moderator. Heard from the committee on Brother J. R. Morgan's case. Committee discharged. On motion, agreed to postpone the case till next meeting, and if then don't make the proper acknowledgments, the Church prefer a charge against him. Appointed Brethren B. E. Whitehead and N. N. Edge to inform Brother Morgan of the action of the Church. Agreed to make choice of pastor at our next meeting. Adjourned. Elder James Reeves, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk November 12,1853 Church met in conference. Elder James Reeves, Moderator. Opened the door of the Church when Mr. John P. Lyle and Mrs. Elizabeth Lyle related to the Church a Christian experience, and was received for Baptism. Preferred the following charges against Brother J. R. Morgan. Gambling, drinking and visiting houses of ill fame, also for neglecting to answer the call of the Church. On motion, Brother J. R. Morgan was excluded from the Church. On motion, appointed Brethren John C. Crabb and J. R. Heaton a committee to see Brother D. D. McCollum and cite him to answer to some reports prejudicial to his Christian character. Granted Letters of Dismission to Sister Mary Kingsberry, Sister Virginia S. Edge and Brother N. N. Edge. Appointed Brother J. C. Crabb, Church Clerk Pro Tem. Went into election of pastor, which resulted in the choice of Elder Thackerson. Adjourned. Elder James Reeves, Moderator N. N. Edge, Church Clerk November 13,1858 Attended to the ordinance of baptism. December 10, 1853 Church met in conference. Elder James Reeves, Moderator. Brother Manning Cain made acknowledgment for violating the Sabbath, which was received. Also Brother D. D. McCollum made acknowledgment for intoxication, which acknowledgment was received. On motion, reconsidered the minutes of the last meeting, so far as relates to granting a Letter of Dismission to Brother N. N. Edge. On motion, the Church agreed to set apart a day to call a Presbytery to ordain Brother N. N. Edge to the ministry. The Church invites Elders William Wood, Walter Barry, William D. Cowdery, Thornton Burk, James Reeves, R. H. Thackerson and Jesse Wood. Appointed next Saturday to attend to that business. Adjourned. Elder James Reeves, Moderator J. C. Crabb, Clerk Pro Tem January 1854 No conference. February 10, 1854 Church met in conference. Brother R. H. Thackerson Moderator. Brother J. P. Lyle made an acknowledgment for intoxication and immoral conduct, which was unanimously received. On motion, made it the duty of the Clerk to call the names of all the male members at the opening of conference and mark those absent. Went into the election of Church Clerk, which resulted in the election of Brother William A. J. Whitehead and J. C. Crabb, Assistant. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator J. C. Crabb, Church Clerk March 11, 1854 Met in conference. A door was opened for the reception of members. No one came forward. Acknowledgments were made for not attending the last meeting, which were received. A charge was made against Brother William B. Moore for playing fires on the Sabbath. And Brother B. F. Morgan and J. Harrison were appointed as a committee to see him. A Letter of Dismission was granted Brother J. L. and G. D. Roper and also a Letter was granted Brother G. W. Morgan. Brethren Harrison and B.E. Whitehead were appointed as a committee to see Brother E. D. Chisholm and know of him the reason of his long absence. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk Sabbath morning. Church met after preaching. A door was opened for the reception of new members, when Sister Ailsey Gnash joined by letter. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk April 8, 1854 Sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was opened for the reception of members. No one came forward. Then took up the case of Brother William B. Moore, which was referred to next meeting, and Brother B. F. Morgan and J. Harrison to see him. Then took up the case of Brother E. D. Chisolm and referred it to next meeting and Brother B. E. Whitehead and J. Harrison a committee to see him. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk April 9,1854 Sabbath morning. Church met after preaching and the door of the church was opened. Junior, a Negro woman belonging to Jesse Walton, joined as a candidate for Baptism. May 13,1954 Sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was opened for the reception of members. No one came. Acknowledgments were made for not attending conference, which were received. Brother William B. Moore made acknowledgements for playing fives which was unanimously received. Brother B. F. Morgan made acknowledgments for playing on the fiddle, which was received. The reference of last meeting in relation to Brother E. D. Chisolm was continued to next meeting with the same committee. Reconsidered a promise made to Brother E. D. Chisolm of granting him the privilege of attending conference when it is convenient. A Letter of Dismission was granted Brother B. F. Morgan, Jr. A Letter of Dismission was also granted Brother John Wood. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk May 14, 1854 Administered the ordinance of Baptism. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk May 13,1854, Sabbath Evening The door of the Church was opened and Rebecca, a colored woman belonging to James Whitehead, came forward as a candidate for Baptism. May 13,1854 Administered the ordinance of Baptism. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk May 14,1854, Monday Morning After preaching, the door of the Church was opened. Malinda Heaton joined as a candidate for Baptism. The 14th, administered the ordinance of Baptism. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk May 14,1854, Monday Evening The door of the Church was opened when Mary E. Russell, Elizabeth Pankey, Mary Jane Pankey, Charlotte C. DeHay, Queen E. DeHay and Martha Stokes. May 15,1854 Administered the ordinance of Baptism. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk May 16,1854, Wednesday Morning The door of the Church was opened when Isaac C. Morgan, Dixer Harald, Nancy J. Harald, Samuel Wright, Louisa J. Crabb, Juliet L Flanegan, Mary E. Brown, Adaline Hobbs, Amanda Harrison, Jane Stokes, Miss Patterson, Jefferson Lyle. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk May 18, 1854, Friday Morning The door of the Church was opened when Nancy Crabb, Jasper N. York, Thompson, a coloured man belonging to Jesse Walton, Rose and Polly, two women belonging to Brother Joseph Morgan, were received as candidates for Baptism. Administered the ordinance. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk May 19,1854 Saturday Morning The door of the Church was opened when Madison Heaton, Jonathan Long, Emily Long, Miss Baldwin, William Everette, Mary Morgan and Spencer, a colored man belonging to Brother B.F. Morgan. Administered the ordinance of baptism, May 20. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk May 20,1854, Sunday Evening The door of the Church was opened when Joel L. Flanegan, Elizabeth Baty, Mary A. Dempsey, George, a colored man belonging to B.E. Whitehead, Luda, a woman belonging to J.L. Flanegan, Caroline, a woman belonging to James Whitehead, Charlotte, a woman belonging to B.F. Morgan and Luda, a woman belonging to Mr. Hitchcock. Administered the ordinance. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk June 3,1854, Friday Night The door of the Church was opened when both John A. Rentz and Josaphine B. Rentz and Steven, a colored man belonging to Brother Rentz, joined by Letter. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk June 10, 1854 Church sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was then opened when Brother Alexander Brown joined by Experience and Baptism. Inquired for acknowledgments. The reference of last meeting was read and that committee was released and Brethren John Harrison, B. F. Morgan, John R. Heaton and E. K. Garner appointed a committee to see Brother Junior to know of him the reason that he does not give in his Letter to some other Church or return it to this Church. The Church agrees to recommend Brother Nash back to this Church, where he was excluded, upon his acknowledgments. The Faith or Constitution of the Church was read, also the Rules of Decorum. A committee consisting of Brother William B. Moore and B. F. Morgan appointed to see Brother Childers and know of him the reason of his absence. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk July 14,1854 Sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was then opened, when Brother John Barton Sr. and John W. Nash joined by Letter. Inquired for acknowledgment, when Brother Junior stated his reasons for never giving in his Letter to some other Church or returning it to this, which were satisfactory. He also agrees to return it to this church. Reference of last meeting in relation to Brother Chisolm referred to next meeting, his presence being requested. Brethren Harrison and R. W. Whitehead as a committee to see him. Reference of Brother Childers referred to next meeting. Brethren B. E. Whitehead, John Harrison, Henderson Everette and James L. Whitehead delegates to the District Meeting and John C. Crabb, Raleigh W. Whitehead, delegates to the Association and Joel L. Flanegan, alternate. Adjourned till tomorrow. Richard H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk July 15,1954, Sunday Evening Opened the door of the Church, when Mr. Chaply W. Dempsey, Mr. Thomas Gentry, Miss Amanda B. Morgan and Miss Dianna Gentry joined by Experience and Baptism. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk August 12, 1854 Sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. Opened the door of the Church. No one joined. Brother Childers made satisfaction for his long absence. Reference of Brother Chisolm was taken up. Brother Chisolm being present, made satisfactory acknowledgments. Brother Chisolm was granted a Letter of Dismission. Made up $2.00 to send to the Association for minutes. The male members of this Church were appointed to attend to some matters of dealing. The District Meeting appointed to be held at this place, commencing Friday before the fifth Sabbath in July, 1855. Adjourned till tomorrow. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk August 13,1854, Sunday Evening The door of the Church was opened. Miss Camely A. Dempsey and Mr. Calvin Philpot came forward and related a Christian Experience, and were received as candidates for Baptism. Adjourned till tomorrow. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk August 14, 1854 Administered the ordinance of Baptism. August 14,1854 Sitting in conference. Appointed as a committee Sisters DeHay, Harrison and Crabb to see Sister Patterson about some ill-famed conduct. Read and adopted the Associational letter. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk August 15,1854 Opened the door of the Church, when Miss Elizabeth Heaton, Miss Lucinda Lyle, Miss Sara J. Wright, James Lyle and his wife, Mrs. Lyle, and James. L. Wynn joined by Experience and Baptism. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk September, 1854 No conference. October 8, 1854 Van Wert Baptist Church sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The doors of the Church was then opened. No one joined. (Names here are marked through to be unreadable; one of them looks like Scott.) Brother John W. Nash was charged with reported intoxication, lying and dancing, whereupon he was excluded. Reference of last meeting in relation to Sister Patterson was referred to next meeting, the same committee continued. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk Saturday night of the 8th The door of the Church was opened, when Peter, a colored man belonging to James Whitehead, joined by Experience and Baptism. Adjourned till tomorrow. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk October 9, 1854 After preaching, the door of the Church was opened, when Mrs. Melvina Hedrick, Mrs. Thomas Gentry joined by Experience. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk October 26, 1854 The Van Wert Baptist camp meeting commenced on the 26th and continued till November 5. The following are the names of those who joined: Miss Elizabeth Cason, Andrew Wade, William A. Lyle, James B. Crabb, Mary F. Crabb, Statisa O. Weatherby, Martha Morgan, Mrs. Margaret Hedrick, Berry Brown, Samuel Crabb, James A. Jordan, Ansalim Morgan, Mary L. Scott, John Atherson, Hutchings' Tom, Hutchings' Patton, B. E. Whitehead's Ann, James Garner and Hutchings' William. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk November 5, 1854 Van Wert Baptist Church sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was opened, when Mrs. Vesta Scott joined by Letter and Elizabeth M. Gentry and Joel Scott by Experience. Mrs. Junior made application for restoration. A committee was appointed, viz. B. E. Whitehead, John C. Crabb, John Heaton, John Harrison, Joseph D. Morgan. The reference of last conference in relation to Sister Patterson was taken up, and the committee released, and she was returned in fellowship. Agreed to go into the choice of pastor, which resulted in the election of R. H. Thackerson. The Church agrees to pay him $100.00. Brother James L. Wynne was granted a Letter of Dismission. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk December 9, 1854 Van Wert Baptist Church sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was opened. No one joined. The reference of last meeting in relation to Mrs. Junior was taken up. The committee reported, and the committee were released and the case was dismissed. A committee was appointed, consisting of Brother J. Heaton and J. Pankey, to see Brother and Sister Barton, also Brother T. DeHay and J. D. Morgan to see Sister Browning, also Brother J. A. Rentz and Dempsey to see Sister Sarah Nash. A Letter of Dismission was granted Sister Statisa O. Weatherby. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk The Year of 1855 January 13,1855 Van Wert Baptist Church sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was then opened, when Sister Garner joined by Letter. Inquired for acknowledgments. References of the last meeting as regard to Brother and Sister Barton joining the Methodist Church was taken up, and the committee released. They were expelled. Also of Sister Browning, for the same offence, the committee released, and she expelled. The committee that was appointed last meeting to see Sister Nash was continued till next meeting. A Letter was received and read from Brother Flanegan requesting the Church to erase his name from our Church Book. Whereupon Brethren John C. Crabb, Joseph D. Morgan and B. E. Whitehead were appointed to see him. Brethren B. E. Whitehead and B. F. Morgan were appointed to hold subscriptions to pay seats and hanging of the bell. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk January 14,1855, Sunday Morning The door of the Church was opened, when Miss Sarah Cearnes (Carnes) and Manerva, a colored woman belonging to Mr. Thomas L. Lockwill, joined by Experience. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk February 11, 1855 Van Wert Baptist Church sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was then opened, when Sister Fanny Dempsey and Mary Ann Dempsey and Brother Lindsey Elliott joined by Letter. Reference of last meeting of Sister Nash continued to next meeting. The same committee continued. The reference of Brother Flanegan of last meeting was taken up, the committee reported and were released, and he was charged with whipping his wife. Brother B., E. Whitehead, Samuel Wright and R. W. Whitehead appointed to see him. Sister Elizabeth Baldwin was granted a Letter of Dismission. Adjourned. H. T. Buchanan, Moderator Pro Tem William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk March 8, 1855 Van Wert Baptist Church sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was opened. No one joined. Inquired for acknowledgments. None. The reference of Sister Nash was taken up. The committee reported and were released. The case continued till next meeting. Brethren Thomas Gentry and E. K. Garner appointed to see her. Then took up the reference of Brother Flanegan. The committee reported and were released. The case was referred to next meeting, and Brethren J. C. Pankey, J. C. Crabb, J. R. Heaton, J. A. Rentz and R. W. Whitehead appointed to see him. Buck, a colored man belonging to Mr. Hightower, was granted a Letter of Dismission. Adjourned till tomorrow morning. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk March 9,1855 Sunday, after preaching, the door of the Church was opened, when Leatha, a colored woman belonging to Mrs. Lucy Hutchings, joined by Experience and Baptism. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk April 7,1855 Van Wert Baptist Church sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was opened. Inquired for acknowledgments. None. Reference of Sister Nash was taken up. She was present and gave satisfaction and was returned in fellowship. The reference of Brother Flanegan was taken up. Owing to the illness of his family, he could not attend Church. Therefore his case and the committee were continued till next meeting. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk May 12,1855 Van Wert Baptist Church sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was opened when Brother George Brown joined by letter. Inquired for acknowledgments. None. Then took up the reference of Brother Flanegan. He being present made satisfactory acknowledgments and was restored to fellowship. Adjourned till tomorrow. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk June 9,1855 Church met in conference. The door of the Church was opened, when Sister Elizabeth Harrison was received by Letter. Appointed Brother John A. Rentz, J. R. Heaton and J. C. Crabb delegates to the District Meeting, and R. W. Whitehead in case of failure. Granted a Letter of Dismission to Sister Mary A. Mason. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator J. C. Crabb, Clerk June 10, 1855 Opened the door of the Church when Brethren A. Evans and B. F. Crabb were received by letter. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk July 6, 1855 Van Wert Baptist Church sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was opened. No one joined. Read and received the letter to the District Meeting to convene at this place. A committee was appointed to see Brother James R. Morgan for non-attendance, consisting of Brethren B. T. DeHay, B. F. Morgan. Agreed to elect delegates to the Association and to send $2.50 for minutes. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk July 7,1855, Sabbath Evening Went in to the election of delegates to the Association, which resulted in the choice of Brethren John C. Crabb, John R. Heaton, Joel L. Flanegan and John A. Rentz, Alternate. Also opened the door of the Church, when a colored woman, Fanny, property of William Hubbard, joined by Letter. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk July 29,1855 Friday evening. Opened the door ofof the Church, when Sister Caroline Stocks joined by Letter. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk July 30, 1855 Sabbath. Opened the door of the Church, when Sister Mary P. Kingsberry and Lucinda, a coloured woman belonging to Henry Kingsberry, joined by letter and Delitha C. Heaton by Experience and Baptism. Sabbath night. Malinza, a coloured woman property of Dr. Prior, joined by Experience and Baptism. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Church Clerk August, 1855 Van Wert Baptist Church sitting in conference. Elder R. H. Thackerson, Moderator. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was then opened. No one joined. Took up the reference of Brother James R. Morgan for non-attendance. He being present, gave satisfactory report. Made up $2.50 for minutes. Read and adopted the Associational letter. September, 1855 Van Wert Baptist Church met in conference. Elder R. H. Thackerson, Moderator. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. When a door of the Church was opened. No one joined. Inquired for acknowledgments. Took up the case of paying for the seats and referred it to next conference. The Church agreed to go into the choice of Pastor at our October conference. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk October 13,1855 Van Wert Baptist Church. Sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was opened. No one presented. Inquired for acknowledgments. When Brother Joel Scott made some acknowledgments for having unavoidably gotten into a difficulty, which were unanimously received. Took up the reference of paying for the church seats, which was referred to next meeting. The Church returned their most hearty thanks to Brother R. H. Thackerson for the most zealous manner in which he has served this year. We then took up the reference of selecting a Pastor, which resulted in the unanimous call of Brother Jesse M. Wood. A Letter of Dismission was granted to Sister Eliza Harrison, also one to Sister (unreadable) Pace and one to Brother and Sister Manning Cain. Brother Childers was charged with intoxication and Brethren B. F. Morgan and J. Harrison appointed to call on him. Adjourned. R. H. Thackerson, Moderator William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk Margin Note: Brethren R. W. Whitehead, J. C. Crabb, J. Harrison appointed to inform Brother Wood. November 18, 1855 Van Wert Baptist Church sitting in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats. The door of the Church was opened. Inquired for acknowledgments. Then took up the reference of paying for the church seats, which was settled. The committee to see Brother Jesse M. Wood reported that he accepted the pastoral care of this Church for 1856, and they were released. Then took up the reference of Brother Childers. The committee reported, and were released and the case continued until next conference. Brother J. L. Flanegan and wife, also daughters, were granted Letters of Dismission. John C. Crabb, Moderator Pro Tem William A. J. Whitehead, Clerk December 9,1855 Van Wert Baptist Church met in conference. Visiting brethren were invited to seats with us. The door of the Church was opened, when Miss Mary Harald joined by Experience. Inquired for acknowledgments, when Dixon McCollum gave satisfaction for intoxication. The reference of Brother Childers was taken up and he was excluded. Letters of Dismission were granted the following Brothers and Sisters, viz. Camely A. Dempsey, James L. Elliott and wife, formerly Mary L. Scott, Miss Patterson, Thompson and Junior, two colored persons of Mr. Walton's. 1856 February 9, 1856 Met in conference. Elder Jesse M. Wood Moderator. Visiting brethren invited to seats with us. Door of the Church opened for the reception of members. None presented. On motion, preferred a charge against Brother William B. Moore for fighting and appointed the following committee to investigate the matter, John R. Heaton, J. D. Morgan and R. W. Whitehead. Brother B. E. Whitehead charged Brother D. D. McCollum with intoxication. Brother McCollom denied the charge. On motion, went into an investigation of the matter, and on second motion, agreed to postpone it and appoint a committee to confer with Brother McCollom, consisting of Brother J. C. Crabb, J. D. Morgan and J. R. Heaton. On motion, a committee was appointed to investigate a difficulty existing between Brother William T. York and Brother John Harrison. Committee consisted of Brethren R. W. Whitehead, John A. Rentz and Jonathan Long. Granted Letters of Dismission to Brother Alex Brown and Sister Susan Brown, also to Brother William A. J. Whitehead. On motion, elected Brother John A. Rentz Clerk. On motion, a committee was appointed to confer with the Division of the Sons of Temperance about reconstruction and building an upper story on the Church for the Division. Committee consisted of B. E. Whitehead, A. H. Evans and R. W. Whitehead. On motion, adjourned. Elder Jesse M. Wood, Moderator J. C. Crabb, Clerk Pro Tem March 8, 1856 After preaching by Brother E. Dyer, conference opened with the usual ceremony. Brother Wood, Moderator. Brother Thomas J. Crabb presented a letter from the Cedartown Church, and was unanimously received. References was called for. Brother Moore being present confessed the charge and asked forgiveness, which was unanimously granted. Brother McCollum also gave the Church satisfactory apology and was restored to fellowship. The committee on the case of Brothers Harrison and York reported, the case was continued with the same. Came the committee with the Sons of Temperance in regard to repairing upon our meeting house, reported and was also continued. Brother Heaton reported a difficulty existing between Brethren Whitehead and Flanegan. Brethren Crabb, Dempsey, Long, Wright and Morgan were appointed a committee to investigate the case. Letters of Dismission were granted to Brother Thomas Gentry and Sisters Nancy and Elizabeth Gentry, also to Brother Henderson Everett and Wife. Unanimously resolved that we organize a Sabbath School in this Church. On motion, adjourned. J. M. Wood, Moderator John A. Rentz, Clerk April 12,1856 Conference was opened by singing. Acknowledgments being called for, Brother Evans said he had been guilty of unchristian conduct b suffering his temper to run too high during a difficulty between himself and Brother Flanegan, and begged the Church to forgive him. It was postponed until next conference. Brother Flanegan also made acknowledgments, which was deferred. The committee in the case between Brother Harrison and York reported. Report received and committee dismissed. A new committee appointed, to wit, Brethren Ell Whitehead, Pankey and Wright. The matter between the Sons of Temperance and the Church was settled affirmatively. A committee was appointed to raise a subscription to make the necessary repairs upon the house, to wit, Brethren Crabb, Heaton and Rentz. The committee to investigate the difficulty between Brother R. W. Whitehead and Brother Flanegan made the following charges, to wit: We, your committee, recommend that the Church charge Brother Flanegan with unbrotherly conduct in trying to obtain a warrant against Brother Whitehead's Negroes without going first to see Brother Whitehead. And Brother Whitehead charges Brother Flanegan (from the report of his family) with coming to his house during his absence from home, and shooting his dog, and very much frightening his family. We also recommend that the Church charge Brother Flanegan with falsehood in denying the accompanying charge of Sister Whitehead, when we suppose it can be proven. "I charge Brother Flanegan with circulating reports derogatory to my Christian character and of using language unbecoming a lady, much less a Christian." The following committee was then appointed to investigate the charges, to wit: Brother Crabb, Wright, Heaton. Brother Evans charged Brother Flanegan with unchristian conduct towards him. Brethren Dempsey, Whitehead and DeHay appointed to investigate said charge. Jesse M. Wood, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk May 19,1856 Conference opened as usual. Committee on the case between Brethren Harrison and York reported the difficulty settled, when they were unanimously restored to fellowship. Committee appointed to make arrangements for repairing the house. On motion, was continued. Report of the committee in the case between Brother R. W. Whitehead and Flanegan were received, and said committee discharged. On motion of Brother Ellis Whitehead, it was unanimously received that the charges brought by the committee at the April meeting were sustained, when Brother Flanegan presented the following, which was read, viz.: Brethren, you don't wish me to live with you, neither do I desire to do so. Excommunicate me and I will be as much delighted as some of you will be gratified. Hoping that the Lord will smile upon you and me, and that we may at last meet where strife, envying, malice, hatred and ungodly combination will never come. I am respectfully, Joel L. Flanegan On motion, the Church unanimously resolved to withdraw the fellowship from Brother Flanegan. The committee reported the difficulty between Brethren Evans and Flanegan settled. Brother Evans then made acknowledgedments to the Church, which were received, and he restored to fellowship. A committee consisting of Brethren Crabb and Heaton was appointed to ask Brother Flanegan for his church letter. Adjourned. J. M. Wood, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk June 7 Conference opened with the usual ceremony. The committee to raise subscriptions to repair the meeting house was continued, with the addition of Brethren B. F. Morgan and S. Wright. The committee appointed to ask J. L. Flanegan for his letter was absent. A committee consisting of Brethren Dempsey and Long was appointed to ask Sister Flanegan and her daughter for the Letters from this Church, provided they expect to remain in the Methodist Church, where they have placed them. A Letter of Dismission was granted to Sister Hedrick. Adjourned. J. M. Wood, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk The Sabbath, June 8, 1856 The door of the Church was opened, when Elder John Holmes presented his Letter from the Chalcedony Church, Cherokee County, Ga., and was unanimously received. J. M. Wood, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk July 12, 1856 Conference opened as usual. The committee to raise a subscription for the purpose of building a new House of Worship was continued, and on motion, Brother John Harrison was added to it. The committee appointed to ask Dr. Flanegan for his church letter reported that he refused to give it up. Said committee on motion was dismissed. The committee to see Sister Flanegan and daughter was continued. Resolved to postpone indefinitely the publication of Dr. Flanegan's refusal to give up his letter. Brethren B. E. Whitehead, Elder John Holmes. J. C. Crabb and John Heaton, Alternate, were elected to represent us in our Association, and the Clerk required to prepare a letter. Adjourned. John Holmes, Pastor, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk Sabbath following Circuit and Rachel, servants of Mr. Bolivar Eddings, presented Letters of Dismission from the Conacind (?) Church, Cass County, Georgia, and were unanimously received. John A. Rentz, Church Clerk During a meeting of days, the door of the Church was opened and Sisters Roda Barton and Martha Skelton presented letters from the Holly Creek Church, Murray County, Georgia. Brethren Crabb and his wife, Sister Rachel, from the Cedartown Church, all of whom were unanimously received. John A. Rentz, Church Clerk August 9, 1856 After preaching by Brother Williams, Church met in conference. Brother Holmes, Moderator. Brother Ansalim Morgan made acknowledgments through Brother John Crabb for disorderly conduct, was excused. The committee to see Sister Flanegan and daughter reported in substance that said sisters would return said letters when convenient to do so. They were unanimously excluded. Sent $2 for minutes. Dismissed by Letter Brother Scott Jordan. The Church resolved to make choice of a pastor for the ensuing year and unanimously elected Brother Williams. Brother Evans and Crabb appointed a committee to notify Brother Williams of said choice. Agreed unanimously, if Brother Williams should accept, to pay him $150.00. August 30, 1856 At a called conference on this day (in lieu of the September Conference), the door of the Church was opened, when Brother George Rentz, a Deacon, presented a letter from the Henderson Baptist Church, and was unanimously received. Sister Kissiah Rentz also presented a letter from the Goose Creek Church, Appling County, Georgia and was also received. The committee to build not being fully prepared to report, was continued. John Holmes, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk October, 1856 Conference opened by singing. The first building committee was dismissed, and the following brethren appointed, to wit, Burton Crabb, B. F. Morgan, Ellis Whitehead and J. D. Morgan and John Heaton, whose business it is to raise a subscription for the purpose of repairing this house, and to proceed with the same as they may deem proper, and the Church is to be held responsible. The committee reported of a colored sister having joined the Methodist society, was continued for further investigation. Letters of Dismission were granted to Brother C. W. Dempsey, Sister Mary Ann Dempsey. Jesse M. Wood, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk November 8, 1856 After the opening of the conference, Brother A. Willingham presented a Letter from the Cedartown Church, and was unanimously received. The Committee to build reported themselves ready to proceed with the work. The Church authorized them to do so. Brethren George Rentz, Burton Crabb and R. W. Whitehead were appointed delegates to the Union Meeting. Letters of Dismission were granted to Sister Elizabeth Nash, Sister Adeline Sockwell and a colored sister, Mary, the property of R. McGregor. J. M. Wood, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk December 13,1856 Conference opened with singing. Letters of Dismission were granted to Sister Hannah Dickerson, Brother and Sister William Everett, Thomas J. Crabb, James B. Crabb, Sister Frances Crabb and Brother R. W. Whitehead and wife. Paid Brother Pankey $5.00 for his services in keeping the house and agreed to pay him $10.00 for the same for the next year. Agreed to have our next meeting on the Saturday before the third Sabbath in next month. J. M. Wood, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk The Year of 1857 January,1857 No conference. February 14,1857 Conference opened by singing. The door of the Church was opened, and William (G or J) Cox and Harriette Cox and Mary A. Howard presented Letter from Antioch Church, Polk County and was unanimously received. Granted a Letter of Dismission to Brother Augustus Willingham, also to York and Juli, colored brother and sister, the property of Miss Hitchcock. On motion, agreed to offer the use of our House to our Primitive Brethren, and appointed Brethren J. C. Pankey and J. C. Crabb to make the tender. On motion, Brother J. R. Heaton and S. M. Wright was appointed a committee to see Brother J. P. Lyle in relation to the general report against him for intoxication. H. A. Williams, Moderator J. C. Crabb, Church Clerk March 14,1857 Conference opened by singing. The door of the Church was opened. None came forward. The committee to inform the Primitive Brethren that the could have the use of our House to worship in reported and was received The committee on Brother John P. Lyle's case reported. Report received and the case was taken up and he was excluded from the Church for intoxication. It was moved that we go into an election of the Deacons at our next meeting. Brother Jefferson Lyle was charged with altering his name, and a charge of forgery. His trial postponed until after -uss Court. Benjamin E. Whitehead, Clerk Pro Tem H. A. Williams, Moderator September, 1857 During a protracted meeting, the following were received by Experience, to wit: H. W. Allen, J. C. Hitchcock, Joseph Jenkins, Daniel Byers, Miss Heaton and Mose, the property of J. A. Jones and by letter, to wit. E. J Childers, Ruthie Childers and Elizabeth Voils. August 29,1857 At a called conference, two dollars was contributed for minutes and $2 for defraying the expenses of our delegates to the Convention. August 29, 1857 Church opened conference as usual. Agreed to have a missionary sermon preached by Brother Williams on the fifth Sabbath instant and take up collection for missionary purpose, and that we have a conference on Saturday before. Appointed a committee, to wit, Brethren George Rentz, B. Crabb and J. R. Heaton to see when the (blank spot) are for the appropriations of the missionary fund. Agreed to choose a pastor at our next regular conference. H. A. Williams, Moderator, John A. Rentz, Church Clerk September 18, 1857 Church met in conference. On motion went into the choice of Pastor. Elder H. A. Williams unanimously elected. Brethren Pankey, George Rentz and J. C. Crabb appointed a committee to notify Brother Williams of his election. Letters of Dismission granted to Brother John Holmes, Sister Elizabeth Weatherby and Sister Felton. B. E. Whitehead, Moderator Pro Tem J. C. Crabb, Church Clerk Pro Tem October 17,1857 Conference opened as usual. Committee appointed to notify Brother Williams of his call reported and dismissed. Brother Williams requested some time to decide. On motion, Church agreed to pay Brother, Williams $150 for his services the next year. A committee appointed, to wit, Brethren Hitchcock Wright and J. D. Morgan to see Brother James Lyle and enquire the cause of his absence from conference. Brother Nash was restored to fellowship and Letter of Dismission granted him. One also granted to Samuel J. Crabb. H. A. Williams, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk November 14,1857 Conference opened as usual. The committee appointed to see Brother Lyle reported. Agreed to receive Brother Lyle's excuse. Brother William Moore was excluded for joining the Methodist Church. Granted Letters of Dismission to Sisters Elizabeth Voils, Rhoda Barton or Burton and Martha Skelton. Adjourned. H. A. Williams, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk December, 1857 In consequence of the absence of our pastor, Brother Burton Crabb acted as moderator. Letters of Dismission granted to Brother and Sister Ellis Whitehead. Burton Crabb, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk The Year of 1858 January,1858 No conference. February 1858 Church met in conference. On motion, appointed Brother J. C. Pankey to take charge of the house; resolved that the house shall not be used as a schoolhouse without permission from the Body. Agreed to pay Brother Pankey twelve dollars for his services as housekeeper. Granted Letters of Dismission to Brother B. T. DeHay, his wife, and to Moses, the property of J. A. Jones. H. A Williams, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk March 20,1858 Conference opened with singing. Opened the door of the Church. Sister Eliza A. Harrison returned the Letter which she had received from this Church and was unanimously received. Upon application of Brother E. K. Garner, Letters of Dismission were granted to the following brothers and sisters, to wit: E. K. Garner and Wife, Jane B Garner, Catherine M. Garner, Elizabeth Ezzell, Nancy J. Harrell, Mary Harrell, D. D. McCollum and wife, James C. Garner. A charge was preferred against Sister Sarah Carnes for dancing. A committee of three appointed to see her and inquire into the correctness of such charge, to wit, Brethren George Rentz, John Harrison and John Crabb. A committee of three appointed to investigate the correctness of some reports against Brethren James H. and William A. Lyle, to wit, Brothers S. Wright, J. D. Morgan and John Heaton. H. A. Williams, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk April 17, 1858 Conference opened as usual. Committee appointed see Sister Carnes and Brother Lyle failed to perform the work and were continued. No more business. Adjourned. H. A. Williams, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk May, 1858 After the opening of conference by singing, Brother Jervis P. Eaves, an ordained minister, presented a Letter from the Union Spring Church, Alabama. Brother Pearce and lady from the Rome Church, and Brother BIoodworth and Lady from Dalia(?) Church, and were all received unanimously. The committee appointed to wait upon Sister Carnes and Brother James and William A. Lyle made their reports, and upon which the said individuals were unanimously expelled. H. A. Williams, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk June,1858 Church met in conference. Brother H. A. Williams, Moderator. Brother J. P. Lyle received by acknowledgment. Brother Byers' case referred to a committee. Brother Williams appointed to preach a missionary sermon on tomorrow. Letter to the Association read and received. Resolved that this Church believes it as unbecoming and sinful for a church member to allow dancing in his house. J. P. Eaves, Clerk Pro Tem July 20, 1858 Conference opened as usual. Brother Eaves, Moderator. Brother Thomas Crabb returned his Letter of Dismission which he had received from this Church and was received. Brother D. Byers applied through Brother J. C. Crabb for a Letter of Dismission, but on motion it was withheld until he shall come and make satisfaction for his failure to pay a demand which Brother John Harrison holds against him. Brethren J. P. Eaves and George Rentz were elected delegates to our Association. J. P. Eaves, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk Pro Tem September 18, 1858 After preaching, Church met in conference. Brother Williams, Moderator. Brother Harrison reported the misunderstanding between himself and Brother Byers settled, and Brother Byers granted a Letter of Dismission. Church agreed to choose a pastor on the first Sabbath in next month. Letters of Dismission were granted to Brother J. P. Lyle, his wife and daughter, to Sister Neighbors and her two daughters, to Brother John Harrison and his two daughters and his (since?) wife, to Brother W. J. Cox and wife, and Sister M. A. Howard, and to Brother James R. Morgan and wife. Brother Evans and Brother Philpot appointed a committee to collect subscriptions for the payment of our pastor for the present year, and also for the payment of Brother Pankey for keeping the house. John A. Rentz, Church Clerk October 3,1858 Church met in conference. Brother Heaton, Moderator. Agreed to postpone the call of a pastor until first Sabbath in November. Granted a Letter of Dismission to Sister Mary Russell. John A. Rentz, Church Clerk November 20,1858 After the opening of conference as usual, Letters of Dismission were granted to brother R. M. Wright, and his wife and daughter, the daughter of Brother James Dempsey, a colored brother, George, belonging to Brother B. E. Whitehead, and Louisa, the property of the estate of Prior. H. A. Williams, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk December 18, 1858 Conference opened as usual. No business. Adjourned. H. A. Williams, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk The Year of 1859 August, 1859 During a meeting of some days in this month, the door of the Church was opened for the reception of members, when Sister Elizabeth Robertson presented a Letter from the Baptist Church at Nahs(?) Creek, Franklin County, Georgia and was unanimously received. Elder Peek, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk During our regular meeting in August, Church elected the following delegates to our Association, to wit, Brethren George Rentz and Burton Crabb and Brother Heaton, Alternate. Letters of Dismission granted to Brother Pankey, wife and two daughters. Elected Brother John Heaton and Brother Pearce, Deacons, and they were regularly ordained at the above mentioned protracted meeting. Presbytery composed of our Pastor, James M. Peek and Elder James McDonald and Elder J. P. Eaves. James M. Peek, Moderator John A. Rentz, Church Clerk October 15,1859 Church met in conference. Attended to business in regular order. Granted Letters of Dismission to Sister Sarah Cason, Sister Elizabeth McGinnis and Sister Delila Ann Felton. Appointed Brethren B. F. Morgan, J. C. Crabb and J. C. Hitchcock a committee to see Brother Matthew Heaton and Ansalim Morgan in regard to some reports against his Christian conduct. James M. Peek, Moderator J. C. Crabb, Church Clerk November 12,1859 Church met according to appointment, for the purpose of calling a preacher. Brother Thomas West was unanimously chosen, and agreed to pay him for said services $225.00 Brethren Crabb, Rentz and Bloodworth appointed a committee to notify Brother West of his calling. November 19,1859 Conference opened with singing. Committee appointed to see Brother Ansalam Morgan reported that the said brother confessed to having done wrong and wished to appear before conference and make confession. On motion, resolved to wait on Brother Morgan until next meeting. Committee appointed to see Brother M. Heaton (rest of page and page 121 were blank). December 17,1859 Conference opened as usual. In consequence of our Pastor Brother Jim Crabb served as Moderator. Brother Ansalam Morgan being absent, his case was continued. Brother Matthew Heaton's case was also postponed. Committee appointed to notify Brother West reported that he declined to comply with the call. Agreed to pay Brother Bloodworth $12 for keeping the house the present year. Brethren Pearce and Evans appointed a committee to procure the services of a housekeeper for the next year. Letters granted to Brother B. F. Morgan, Sister Morgan and Sister Amanda T. or F. (unreadable). Unanimously called Brother Newton to serve as a preacher the next year. Brethren Crabb and Evans appointed a committee to see Brother Newton. 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