HARDEMAN COUNTY, TN - CHURCH - Walnut Grove Church Book ==================================================================== USGENWEB NOTICE: In keeping with our policy of providing free information on the Internet, data may be used by non-commercial entities, as long as this message remains on all copied material. These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit or for presentation by other persons or organizations. Persons or organizations desiring to use this material for purposes other than stated above must obtain the written consent of the file contributor. The submitter has given permission to the USGenWeb Archives to store the file permanently for free access. This file was contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by: James H. Ragon splstk@aeneas.net ==================================================================== CHURCH BOOK OF WALNUT GROVE CHURCH beginning with the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy. Containing the consitution, church covenant, Rules of Decorum, Aritcles of faith, and Church roll, as they are in the first Church book. Constitution of the Walnutgrove Baptist Church, State of Tennesse, Hardeman County, March 4, 1850 On Monday after the first Lord’s day in March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty, a convention of Brethren and Sisters, under the title of an arm of Piney Grove church, met at Walnut Grove meeting house, and after Divine Service, proceeded to the constitution of a church at Walnut Grove, by the following named Brethren, who were called as a presbytery for that purpose: Leven Savage ] Egbert H. Osborne ] Presbytery D.R. Bryant ] Thomas F. Welch ] The undersigned Brethern and Sisters were then regularly organized into the Baptist Church according to the Scriptural plan as we conceive, after which a charge was delivered to them by Bishop L. Savage upon the importance of their christian obligations and duties. Solomon Jacobs 1 Sarah Ervin 4 Olivia Jacobs 2 Henry Brewer 5 James C. Ervin 3 Elizabeth Brewer 6 Ebenezer Hornsby 7 Catharin Hornsby 8 Benjamin Vaugn 9 Elizabeth Vaugn 10 George Vaughn 11 William A. Harty 12 A. S. Dorris 13 John Bradford 14 C. C. McDaniel 15 Stephen Scoggin 16 Amy Bouston 17 M. H. Blakemore 18 Elizabeth Bradford 19 Eliza Bradford 20 Elizabeth Brewer, Sr. 21 Unity McDaniel 22 Martha Jacobs 23 Margaret Vandergrift 24 Rebecca Pair 25 Emily Bradford 26 Narcissus Nuckolls 27 After which the Church proceeeded to the election of deacons, which resulted in the election of Solomon Jacobs and Henry Brewer. Who were ordained by the Presbytery. Bro. J. C. Ervin was elected Clerk to fill the vacany of Bro. Brewer. (Note) Transcribed from the old Church Book. Milo Scott, Thursday January the 18th A.D. 1870. Church Covenant Having been (as we trust) brought by divine grace to embrace the love of Jesus Christ, and to give up ourselves wholly to Him, we do now Solemnly and joyfully covenant with each other, to walk together in Him, with brotherly love, to His glory as our common Lord; We do therefore in His strength engage: That we will exercise a mutual care as members one of another, to promote the growth of the whole body in christian Knowledge, holiness and comfort, to the end that we may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. That to promote and secure this object; we will uphold the public worship of God, and the ordinances of His house, and hold constant communion with each other therein. That we will cheerfully contribute of our property for the support of the poor, and for the maintenance of a faithful ministry of the Gospel among us. That we will not omit closet and family Religion at home, none allow ourselves in the common neglect of the great duty of religiouly training up our children, and those under our care, with a view to the Service of Christ and the enjoyment of heaven. That we will walk circumspectly in the world, that we may win their Souls, remembering that “God hath not given us the Spririt of fear, but of power, and of love and of a sound mind, that we are the light of the world and the salt of the earth”, and that a city set on a hill cnnot be hid. That we will frequently exhort and if occasion shall require admonish one another according to Matthew the 18th in the Spirit of meekness, considering ourselves lest we also be tempted, and, that as in baptism we have been buried with Christ and risen again. So there is on us apecial obligation thenceforth to walk in newness of life. And may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the Sheep through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make us perfect in every good work to do His will working in us that which is well pleasing in His Sight through Jesus Christ to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Note. Copied from the old church Book, January the 13th 1870, Milo Scott. Articles of Faith Art. 1st. We believe the Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired and is a perfect treasure of Heavenly instruction. That it has God for its author, Salvation for its end and truth without any mixture of error for its matter, that it reveals the principal by which God will judge us, and therefore is and shall remain to the end of the World, the true center of christian union and the supreme standard by which all human conducts, creedes and opinions shall be tried. Art. 2nd. of the True God. That there is one and only one true and living God whose name is Jehova the maker and supreme ruler of Heaven and Earth, inexpressible glorious in Holiness worth of all possible honor, confidence and love, Revealed under the personal and relative distinction of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption. Art. 3. That man was created in a state of holiness under the law of his maker, but by voluntary transgression fell from that Holy and happy state, in consequence of which all mankind are now sinners, not by constraint but choice being by nature utterly void of that Holiness required by the law of God wholly given to the gratification of the World of satan, and of their own sinful passions, and therefore under just Condemnation to eternal ruin withour defence or excuse. Art. 4. of the way of Salvation That the Salvation of sinners is wholy of grace through the mediatorial offices of the Son of God, who took upon him our nature yet without sin honored the law by his personal obedience and made atonement for our sins by his death, being risen from the dead he noe enthroned in Heaven and uniteing in his wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfections is every way qualifide to be a suitable Compassionate and an all sufficient Saviour. Art. 5. of Justification That the great Gospel blessing which Christ of his fullness bestows on such as believe in him is Justification, that Justification consists in the pardon of sin and the promise of eternal life on principles of righteousness, that it is bestowed not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done but soley through his own redemption and righteousness. That it brings us into a state of most blessed peace and favor with God and secures every other blessing needful for time and eternity. Art. 6, of the freeness of Salvation That the blessing of Salvation air made free to all by the Gospel that it is the immediate duty of all to accept them by a cordial and obedient faith and that nothing prevents the Salvation of the greatest Sinner on earth except his own voluntary refusial to submit to the Lord Jesus Christ, which refusal will suject him to an aggravated Condemnation. Art. 7. of the Grace of Regeneration That in order to be saved we must be regenerated or born again that regeneration consists in giving a Holy dispositon to the mind and is affected in a manner above our comprehension or calculation by the power of the Holy Spirit, so as to secure our voluntary obedience to the Gospel and that its proper evidence in found in the Holy fruit which we bring forth to the glory of God. Art. 8 Of God’s purpose of grace That election is the gracious purpose of God according to which he regenerates, sanctifies and saves sinners, that being perfectly consistent with the free agency of man it comprehends all the means in connection with the end. That it is a most glorious display of God’s Sovreign goodness, being infinitely wise, holy and unchangeable. That it utterly excludes boasting and promotes humility, prayer, praise, trust in God and active imitation of his free mercy. That it encouriages the use of means in the highest degree. That it is ascertained by its effects in all who believe the gospel is the foundation of Christian assureance and that to ascertain it with regard to ourselves demands and deserves our utmost diligence. Art. 9. Of the preseverance of Saints That sutch ondly are real believers as endure unto the end that there persevering attatchment to Christ is the grand mark which distinguishes them from superficial professors. That a special providence watches over their wellfare, and they are kept by the power of God through faith unto Salvation. Art. 10. Harmony of the law and gospel. That the law of God is the eternal and unchangible rule of his moral government. That it is holy, just and good and that the inability which the Scripturew ascribe to fallen men to fulfil its precepts arise entirely from their love of sin to deliver them from which and to restore them through a mediator to unfeigned obedience to the holy law is one great end of the gospel and of the means of grace connected witht he establishment of the visible church. Art.11. Of a Gospel Church That a visabel Church of Christ is a congregation of Baptisted believers associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the gospel observing the ordinances of Christ, governed by his laws and exercising the gifts rights and privileges invested in them by his word that its only proper offfices are bishops or pastors and deacons whose qualifications claims and duties are defined in the epistles. Art. 12 Of Baptism and the Lord’s supper. That Christian Baptism is the immersion of a believer in water in the name of the Father, Son and spirit to show forth in a solemn and buliful emblem our failth in a crucified, buried and risen savior with its purifying powers, that it is prerequisite to the privileges of a church relation and to the Lord’s supper in which the members of the church by the use of bread and wine are to commemorate together the dying love of Christ preceeded always by soemn self examination. Art. 13. Of the Christian Sabbath That the first day of the week is the Lord’s day or Christian Sabbath and it is to be kept sacred to religious purposes by abstaining from all secular labor and recreation, by devout observance of all the means of grace both private and public and by preparation for that rest which remains for the people of God. Art. 14. Of Civil government That civil government is of divine appointment for the interests and good order of human society, and that magistrates are to be prayed for conscientiously, honored and obeyed, except in things opposed to the will of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the only Lord of the Concience and the prince of the king of the earth. Art. 15. Of the Righteous and the Wicked. That there is a radical and essential difference between the rightness and the wicked, that such only as through faith are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and sanctified by the Spirit of our God are truly righteous in his esteem, while all such as continue in impenitence and unbelief are in his sight wicked and under the curse and this distnction holds among men both in and after death. Art. 16. Of the World to come. That the end of this world is approaching that at the last day Christ will descend from Heaven and raise the dead from the grave to final retribution that a solemn separation will then take place, that the wicked will be adjudged to endless punishment and the righteous to endless Joy, and that this Judgement will fix forever the final state of man in Heaven or Hell on pricipals of righteousness. Transcribed from the Old Church Book by Sephen Herrimon. Rules of Decorum Art. 1. The Pator of the church shall act as moderator in conference at all times unless otherwise ordered by the Church and that by motion made and seconded or in his absence the Church shall choose a moderator protem for that meeting and it shall be the duty of the moderator to keep order. Art. 2. When the Church is convened in conference it shall be the duty of the moderator to enquire into the fellowship or order of the Church before proceeing to any other business. Art. 3. When any member rises to speak he shall address the moderator by the appelation of Brother Moderator. Art. 2 When two members rise to speak at the same time it shall be the duty of the moderator if necessay to decide which shall speak first. Art. 5. If there is any grievance in the church amongest the members we refer them to the 18 of Matthew for a rule to be governed by to remove said grievance. Art. 6. That a majority of the members present shall rule in all cases except in the reception of members which shall be unanimous. Art. 7. Any male member that may be absent more than two Church meetings shall if the Church deem it expedient be sent for and shall assign their reasons for thir absence which reasons shall be judged of by the Church. Art. 8 Any person relation an experience if any member have any objection to the reception of said person in to the church the aforesaid member shall make it known at the time by vote or otherwise, and and if not made known at the time their objection afterward shall be no bar to the person being baptised. Art. 9. That members of the church shall use the appellation of Brother or Sister in time of conference meeting it shall be the duty of any member desiring absence from the house to first obtain permition from the moderator except in paricular cases when it may not be expedient. Art. 11. But one person shall speak at a time and he shall rise to his feet and obtaining leave preceed. Transcribed from the old church Book by Stephen Herrimon. A Record of the Church of Christ Worshipping at Walnut Grove Saturday, Jan. 15, 1870 The Church of Christ woshipping at Walnut Grove met persuant t0 adjournment sermon by Elder C.C. McDaniel, the pastor, after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st. an oppertunity was offered to any person wishing to unite witht he church to do so, no applications were made. 2nd. grievance called for, none were reported. 3rd. Refferences were called for where upon, 1st, the minute of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted. 2nd, The committy appointed to procure the church letter granted to Edney F. Scott produced the letter which was destroyed. On motion the committy was discharged. 4th. order new business were called for a charge was preferred & sustained against Charley Miller(C0l.) of drunkness and attempt of theft on motion he was excluded from membership of the church. On motion the meeting adjourned to meet for preaching at 11 oclock on tomorrow. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, church clerk Saturday Feb 19th 1870 The Church of Christ worshipping at Walnut Grove met persuant to adjournment after comments on the 12 Chapt of Romans by Edler C.C. McDaniel, the pastor. Their being but a few members present , we resoved to hold conferance on tomorrow. Lords Day meeting Feb 20th 1870, after sermon by Elder C.C. McDaniel, the church was called to order. 1st, the way was opened for the reception of members, none came forward. 2nd, grievance were called for, none reported. 3rd, Refferance were called for, where upon the minute of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted. 4th, new business were called for, on motion the meeting adjourned to meet one Saturday before the 3rd Lords day in March. C.C. McDaniel Moderator S. Herrimon, Church Clerk Saturday March 19th 1870 The Church of Christ worshipping at Walnut Grove me persuant to adjournment after reading and commenting on the 4th Chapt of Ephesions by Elder C.C. McDaniel, the pastor, the church was clled to order. 1st, the way was opened for the reception of members, none came forward. 2nd, grievances called for, none were reported. 3rd, Refferance were call for, where upon the minute of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted. 4th, new business was called for, on motion the meeting adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3rd Lords day in April. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Church Clerk Walnut Grove, April 16th 1870 The church persuant to adjournment sermon by the pastor after which the church was called to order by him where upon the following business was transacted: 1st, an oppertunity was given for any person wishing to unite with the church to do so, no application were made. 2nd, greivances were called for, none were reported. 3rd, Refferances were called for, where upon the minutes of the preceeding meeting were read, approved and adopted. 4th, New business were called for, When the following preamble and resolution was offered and adopted, Whereas it being known by the church that a serious difficulty has occured between J.F. Dorris and J.W. Ervin, members of this church, and as the particulars in the case are not in possession of this church therefore resolved that a committy of five be appointed to investigate and reconcile, if possible, and report at our next regular meeting the result of their labors. The folowing brethern were appointed said committee G.S. Fawsett, B. Vaughan, Milo Scott, John H. Brewer and I.H. Brewer. On motion it was resolved that on the 3rd Lords day in May that this church proceed to ordain Brother Milo Scott to the full work of the Gospel Ministry and further resolve that Elders A. S. Dorris & C.P. Malone are requested to be present and coopperate with Elder C.C. McDaniel, our pastor, as a presbyery to assist the church in the ceremonies. On motion the meeting adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3 Lords day in May. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Church Clerk Walnut Grove, May 14th 1870 The church met persuant to adjournment sermon by the pastor after which the church was called to order by him. Where upon the following business was transacted: 1st, an oppertunity was given for any person wishing to unite with the church to do so, no application were made. 2nd, grievances called for, none were reported. 3rd, Refferences were called for, where upon, 1st, the minute of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted, 2nd, some of the committee appointed to investigate the nature of the grievance between J.F. Dorris and J.W. Ervin was present and begged to be Released, on motion the committy was released. 4th order, new business were called for, a charge was preferred against J.F. Dorris for unlawfully strikeing J.W. Ervin, on motion the charge was received and the clerk ordered to notify the partys to attend with there witnesses at our next regular meeting. On motion it was resolved our Saturday meeting be at 2 o’clock in the evening. a motion was made to hold conference on the Lords day meeting, on motion it was laid over until our next regular meeting, on motion the meeting adjourned to meet for preaching on tomorrow at 11 o’clock. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Church Clerk Walnut Grove Lords day meeting, May 15th 1870 After sermon by the pastor the church was called to order, the presbytry invited to assist int he ordination of Brother Scott being absent, on motion the church preceed to ordain Brother Scott to the full work of the Gospel Ministry by our pastor. Brother Scott presented himself and related to the church the impression made upon him to preach the Gospel which was satisfactory to the church, then Brother McDaniel proceeded to examine him upon his faith it being satisfactory, prayer was made and the charge red to him, the church then sang a hymn and extended to Brother Scott the hand of recognition as an ordained Minister of the Gospel of Christ. The meeting then adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3 Lords day in June at 2 o’clock in the evening. C. C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Church Clerk Walnut Grove, June 18th 1870 The church met persuant to adjournment sermon by the pastor after which the church was called to order by him, where upon the following business was transacted: 1st, an oppertunity was given for any person wishing to unite with the church to do so, when James Thos Jacobs came forward bearing a letter from Porters Creek Church on motion he was received in to the fellowship of the church. 2nd, grievances was called for, none were reported. 3rd, Refferences was called for, where upon, 1st, the minutes of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted, 2nd, the charge against J.F. Dorris was referred to the witnesses not being present on motion it was laid over until our next regular meeting and the parys requested to attend at our next regular meeting for trial, 3rd, the motion to hold conferance on the Lords day meeting was referred to which was voted down. 4th order, New business was called for Sister Emily Toon requested a letter of dismission from the church on motion it was granted, on motion the meeting adjourned to meet for preaching on tomorrow at 11 o’clock. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Church Clerk Before service the church was called to order by the pastor, Brother Milo Scott requested a letter of dismission from the church on motion it was granted, on motion the conference adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3 Lords day in July at 2 o’clock in the evening. C.C. McDaniel, Moderaton S. Herrimon, Church Clerk Walnut Grove, July 16th 1870 The church met persuant ot adjournment sermon by the pastor after which the church was colled to order by him where upon the following business was transacted, 1st, an oppertunity was given for any person wishing to unite with the church to do so, when Sister Nancy Wayett returned her letter tothe church. 2nd, grievences was called for none were reported. 3rd, refferences was called for where upon, 1st, the minutes of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted, 2nd, the charge against J.F. Dorris was referred to after some investigation on motion Brother A.S. Dorris taken the chair while Brother McDaniel give his views on the subject after which he resumed his chair on motion J.F. Dorris was excluded from the church he wished to make few remarks on motion it was granted. 4th, order new business were called for on motion the church went into an election of delegates to The Association, on motion Brothers C.C. McDaniel, A.S. Dorris & B.L.C. Hornsby was appointed delegates. On motion the church resolved to hold a protracted meeting commencing on Saturday before the 3 Lords day in Sept. On motion Brothers Savage, Malone, Curry and Scott be invited to help our pastor. On motion conferance adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3 Lords day in August at 2 o’clock in the evening. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Church Clerk Walnut Grove, August 20th 1870 The church met persuant to adjournment sermon by the pastor after which the church was called to order by him, where upon the following business was transacted: 1st, an oppertunity was given for any person wishing to unite with the church to do so, no application were made. 2nd, grievances were called for when Sister Martha E. Dorris preferred the following charges Brethern and Sisters of this church as we claim to be the visable kingdom of Christ we should be governed by the laws which he has given unto the kingdom therefore feeling it to be my indispensibel duty to bring before this boddy a rumor which I have heard on Sister Cynthia McDaniel that is stealing wool rolls from Joseph Herrimon. Therefore believing it to be true, I perfer it against her as a charge. Fanny Vaughan, Elizabeth Herrimon and Wiley Herrimon witnesses. I also prefer a charge against Brother J. W. Ervin for wilful lying he told moore than once that he was stooping over looking at the bullet holes when James Dorris struck him and the witnesses swore to the reverse. Yours in Christ, Martha E. Dorris. On motion all the evidence be brought forward and it be investigated before the church at our next regular meeting. 3rd, Refferences was called for on motion we resloved to hold our Sturday meetings at 11 o’clock in the morning. On motion conferance adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3 Lords day in September at 11 o’clock in the morning. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Church Clerk Walnut Grove, Saturday Sept 17th 1870 The church met persuant to adjournment sermon by the pastor, Elder C.C. McDaniel, after which he called the church to order and transacted the following business: 1st, an oppertunity was given to any person wishing to unite with the church to do so, no application was made. 2nd, grievances were called for, no grievances were reported. 3rd, Refferences were called for where upon 1st, the minutes of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted, 2nd, the case of Sister Cynthia P. McDaniel was called on motion of Brother B.L.C. Hornsby, Second by Bro. G.S. Fawcett it was thrown out of the church by 29 votes to 4 votes, 3rd, Brother J.W. Ervins case was called the Moderator rehersed the charge in the hearing of the church and asked the accused if he was guilty or not guilty, he plead not guilty. Brother B. Curry then testified that J.W. Ervin was standing up when J.F. Dorris struck him, on motion Mr. John Hooper was qualified and testified the same, Brother Adolphus Ervin came forward and testified that the aforesaid John Hooper told him within 2 hours after J.F. Dorris struck J.W. Ervin that the said J.W. Ervin was stooping down when he was struck. a motion was then made that Mr. Hooper be recalled he refused to testify again, Mr. John Parish came forward and on motion testified with without being sworn that Mr John Hooper told him in about two hours after Brother J.W. Ervin was struck by J.F. Dorris that Brother J.W. Ervin was stooping down when he was struck, on motion the church proceeded to vote on the question of Brother J. W. Ervins guilt or innocence the church decided by their vote that he was not guilty votes 10 against 2. 4th order, new business were called for where upon Brother Brice Curry requested his name erased from the church book on motion his request was granted, Brother E.H. Dorris then requested his name erased form the church book on motion his request was granted. Brother Churchweel Jones (col) brought a charge of fornication against Adaline Griggs (Colored) the church being satisfyed of her guilt on motion excluded her, on motion the meeting adjourned to meet on for preaching on tomorrow at 11 o’clock in the morning. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Church Clerk Walnut Grove, Saturday Oct 15th 1870 A few members of Walnut Grove church met persuant to adjournment sermon by the pastor, Elder C.C. McDaniel, there being but few members present reolved to hold conference on tomorrow. Lords day meeting, Oct 16th 1870 After sermon by Elder C.C. McDaniel, the pastor, the church was called to order and transacted the business, 1st, an oppertunity was given for any person wishing to unite with the church to do so, no application were made. 2nd, grievances were called for, none were reported. 3rd, refferences was called for where upon the minutes of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted. 4th order new business was called for when Sister Matilda Curry sent a request that her name be erased from the church book, on motion her request was granted, on motion the meeting adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3rd Lords day in November at 11 o’clock in the morning. C.C McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Church Clerk Walnut Grove, Saturday Nov 19th 1870 The church met persuant to adjournment sermon by paster Elder C.C. McDaniel after which the church was called to order and transacted the folloeing business: 1st, an oppertunity was given to any person wishing to unite with the church to do so no application were made. 2nd, grievances was called for none were reported. 3rd, Refferences were called for where upon the minutes of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted. 4th order, new business were called for on motion the church proceed to elect a pastor to the serve the church for the year 1871 which resulted in the election of Elder C.C. McDaniel. Brother Churchwell Jones (Col) requested a letter of dismission from this church on motion it was granted. On motion the meeting adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3rd Lords day in Decr at 11 o’clock in the morning. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Church Clerk Walnut Grove, Saturday Decr 17 th 1870 the church met persuant to adjournment sermon by Elder C.C. McDaniel, the pastor, after which the church was called to order by him and transacted the following business: 1st, an oppertunity was given for any person wishing to unite with the church to do so no application were made. 2nd, grievance were called for no grievance were reported. 3rd, refferences was called for where upon, 1st, the minutes of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted, 2nd, the following was presented by Elder A.S. Dorris the following colored members joined the church 1st Lors day in Nov 1870 by experance and Baptism Henry Chesher, Judy Chesher, Cynthia Black and Susan Seddens. 4th order new business was called for the church being in possession of the evidence that Churchwell Jones, colored, who called for and received a letter of dismission from the church at the preceeding meeting had been guilty of theft, on motion the church recinded the act of granting a letter to said Churchweel Jones and recalled the letter on motion he wa excluded for theft, on motion resoved that it be published in The Baptist, on motion the meeting adjourned to meet for preaching on Saturday before the 3 Lords day in January 1871 at 11 o’clock. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Church Clerk Walnut Grove, Jan 14th 1971, no preaching Lords day Meeting, Jan 15th 1871 A few members of the church met sermon by the pastor after which the church was called to order by him and transacted the following business: 1st, the way was opened for the reception of members, none received. 2nd, grieviances were called for, none reported. 3rd, Refferences were called for where upon the minute or the preceeding meeting were red, approved and adopted. 4th order, new business were called for, where upon 1st, a charge was preferred against Brother Wm. Wiggins for danceing on motion the charge were received and a committy appointed to investigate the charge and report at our next regular meeting. The following Brethern was appointed on the committy, A.S. Dorris, J.W. Coggin and J.H. Brewer. 2nd, Brother J. H. Dorris requested a letter of dismission on motion it was granted, 3rd, on motion Elder A.S. Dorris and Elder C.C. McDaniel act as Delegates to the district union meeting No.1 of the Unity association to meet on Friday before the 5th Lords day in January 1871, on motion the meeting adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3 Lords day in February 1871. C. C. McDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Clerk Walnut Grove, Feb 18th 1871 The church met presuant to adjournment sermon by the pastor after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, the way was opened for the reception of members, no application were made. 2nd, grieveances were called for none were reported. 3rd, Refferences was called for where upon, 1st, the minute of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted. 2nd, the charge against Brother Wm. Wiggins was referred to the committy begged for further time to report, on motion, the committy be allowed further time to report and he be notifyed to attend at our next regular meeting for trial. 4th order new business were called for, on motion the meeting adjourned to meet for preaching on tomorrow at 11 o’clock. C. C. MCDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Clerk Lords day Meeting, Feb 19th 1871 Sermon by the pastor after which the church was called to oreder and granted to Brother F.M. Jackson a letter of dismission, on motion it was resolved that no person be admitted into the church only at the regular meeting of the church. The then adjourned to meet Saturday before the 3rd Lords day in April. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Clerk Walnut Grove, March 18th 1871 The church met persuant to adjournment sermon by the pastor after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, the way was opened for the reception of members, no alpplication were made. 2nd, grieviance were called for none were reported. 3rd, refference were called for 1st the minute of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted, 2nd, the charge against Brother Wm. Wiggins was referred to Brother J.W. Coggin one of the Committy appointed to investigate the charge alledged to Brother Wiggins reported him guilty of the charge on motion the report was received and brought before the House on motion Mr. Wiggins was excluded from the fellowship of the church. 4th, order new business were called for, on motion the Conferance adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3rd Lords day in April 1871. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Clerk Walnut Grove, April 15th 1871 The church persuant to adjournment sermon by the Pastor after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, the way was opened for the reception of members no application were made. 2nd, greiveances were called for none were reported. 3rd, Referrences was called for where upon the minute of the preceed ing meeting was red, approved and adopted. 4th order, new business were called for where upon an application was made for a letter of dismission the all the Colored members of this church to be organized into a church of the same faith and order, on motion the letters were granted, on motion the meeting adjourned to meet of Saturday before the 3rd Lords day in May 1871. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Napolean Dorris, Clerk Protem Walnut Grove, May 20th 1871 The church met persuant to adjournment seromon by the Pastor after wihich the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, the way was fopened for the reception of members when Sisters Adelia and Elizabeth Ervin united with the church by letters. 2nd, grieveances wre called for none were reported. 3rd, Refferances were called for where upon the minute of the preceeding meeting were re, approved and adopted. 4th order, new business were called none appearing, Brother J.M. Chambers talked to the church on the importance of home missions after which on motion Brother Chambers be requested to preach on tomorrow at 10 o’clock and take up a public collection for home mission on motion the meeting adjourned to meet for preaching on tomorrow at 10 o’clock. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Clerk June term no preaching on Saturday, preaching on Sunday but no conference. Walnut Grove, July 15th 1871 The church met persuant to adjournment sermon by the Pastor their being but few members present resolved to hold conference on tomorrow. 3rd Lords day in July 1871, Sermon by the Pastor after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, the way was opened for the reception of member no applications were made. 2nd, grieveances were called for none were reported. 3rd, Refferences were called for where upon the minute of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted. 45h, order new business were called for where upon 1st, on motion the church went into an election for delegates to the association, on motion Brothers C.C. McDaniel, A.S. Dorris and W.M. Hornsby were appointed delegates to the Association,2nd a charge was peferred against J.J. and W.A. Ervin for swearing and drawing pistols on each other on motion a committy were appointed to investigate the charges and report to our next regular meeting also to investigate the rumor about their conduct with Miss Cinda Hodge. W.M. Hornsby, W.K. Makiney, J.H. Brewer, I.H. Brewer and B.L.C. Hornsby committy the meeting ajourned. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Clerk Walnut Grove, August 19th 1871 The church met persuant to adjournment Sermon by the Pastor after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, the way was opened for the reception of members no application were made. 2nd, grieveances were called for none were reported. 3rd, Refferences were called for where upon 1st, the minute of the preceeding meeting were red, approved and adopted. wnd, the report of the committy appointed to investigate the charges alledged to J.J. and W.A. Ervin reported them guilty, on motion the report was received and the committy discharged, on motion J.J. Ervin was excluded then W.A. Ervin case were referred to on motion he was excluded. The letter to the association was red and approved on motion it be recopyed and give the present statistics. 4th, order new business was called for Brother J.J. Sanders and Nancy Sanders, his wife, requested letters of dismission on motion they were granted, Sister Francis Evans requested a letter of dismission which was granted, the meeting then adjourned. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Clerk Sept Meeting preaching Saturday and Sunday but no conference Oct meeting disappointed. Walnut Grove, Nov 18th 1871 The church met persuant to adjournment Sermon by the Pastor after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st order called for the 2nd no grievences reported 3rd refferences were called for where upon the minute of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted. 4th order Sister M.E. Dorris requested a letter from the church which was granted, on motion the church proceeded to Elect a pastor for the year 1872 which resulted in the re-election of Elder C.C. McDaniel, on motion the meeting adjourned. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Clerk Walnut Grove, Decr 16th 1871 The church met persuant to adjournment Sermon by the Pastor after which the church was called to order, 1st, the way was opened for the reception of members none were recieved, 2nd, grievences called for none were reported. 3rd, refferences called for the minute of the preceeding meeting was red, approved and adopted. 4th order, new business called for Sister Elizabeth Polk was granted a letter of dismission from the church the meeting adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3rd Lords day in Jan 1872. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Clerk Walnut Grove, Jan 20th 1872, Disappointed. Lords day Meeting Jan 21 1872 Preaching but no conference held. February term Saturday meeting called in Lords day meeting disappointed in consequence of the bad weather. Walnut Grove, March 16th 1872 The Church persuant to adjournment Sermon by the Pastor after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: Passed over the 1st order and called for the 2nd no grieveances were reported, 3rd order, Refferences were called for where upon the minute of the preceeding meeting were read, approved and adopted. 4th order, new business were called for 1st on motion the 2nd order of business be expunged, 2nd a charge was preferred aganst Isaac Hornsby for dancing on motion the charge was received and a committy appointed to investigate it and report at our next regular meeting, Committy, Brethern J.W. Coggin, J.H. Brewer and G.P Vaughan. On motion the meeting adjourned. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator S. Herrimon, Clerk Walnut Grove, April 20th 1872 The church met persuant to adjournment Sermon by the Pastor after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st the way was opened for the reception of members none were received. 2nd, refferences were called for where upon 1st, the minute of the preceeding meeting was read, approved and adopted. 2nd the charge aganst Isaac Hornsby was referred to the Committy asked for further time on motion it was granted. 3rd order, new business were called for on motion the meeting adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3rd Lords day in May 1872. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Clerk Walnut Grove, may 18th 1872 The church met persuant to adjournment Sermon by the Pastor after which the church were call to order and transacted the following business: passed the 1st order and called for refferences where upon 1st the minute of the preceeding meeting was read, approved and adopted, 2nd, the committy appointed to investigate the charge alledged to Isaac Hornsby reported through the person of Isaac Hornsby and requested to be released on motion their request was granted. Brother Isaac Hornsby being present declaired to the church that he was not guilty on motion his report were received, he was aquitted. 3rd order, new business were called for on motion the meeting adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3rd Lords day in June 1872. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Clerk Walnut Grove, June 15th 1872 The church met persuant to adjournment Sermon by the Pastor after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, the way was opened for the reception of members none were received. 2nd, refferences were called for where upon the minute of the preceeding meeting were read, approved and adopted.. 3rd order, new business was called for on motion letters of dismission were granted to Brother George S. Faucett and his wife, Matilda Ann Faucett. On motion the meeting adjourned. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Clerk Walnut Grove, July 2oth 1872 The church met persuant to adjournment sermon by the Pastor after which the church were called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, the way was opened for the reception of members no applications were made. 2nd, Refferences were called for where upon the minute of the proceeding meeting were red, approved and adopted. 3rd order, New business were called for on motion Brethern C.C. McDaniel, A.S. Dorris, and J.W. Coggin were appointed delegates to the Association on motion the church resolved to hold a protracted meetimg commenceing on Saturday before the 3rd Lords day in August, on motion Brother Savage and Brother J.H. Curry be invited , on motion the meeting adjourned. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Clerk Walnut Grove, August 17th 1872 The Church met persuant to adjournment Sermon by the Pastor after which the Church were called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, the way were opened for the reception of members no application were made. 2nd, Refferenes were called for where upon 1st the minut of the proceeding meeting were red, approved and adopted, 2nd The letter to the Association were red and approved. 3rd order, New business were called for on motion Sister Elizabeth Ann Sills was granted a Letter of dismission from the church, the meeting met and adjourned from day to day. On 22, the way was opened for the reception of members when Elizzie Griggs, Elizabeth Roberts and Eller Roberts presented themselves and was received by the church and stands approved for the Baptism on the 24, an oppertunity were offered for the reception of members when Richard Nuckolls, Bunyan Bradford and Alvin C. Sanders presented themselves and was recieved by the churchand stand approved for Baptism, on the 25th the Pastor Baptised Alvin Sanders, Richard Nuckolls, and Bunyan Bradford. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Stephen Herrimon, Clerk Walnut Grove, Sep 14th 1872 The Church met persuant to adjournment sermon by the Pastor after which the Church wer called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, the way was opened for the reception on members when Sarah Jerigan came forward and united with the Church by experiance and stands approved for Baptism. 2nd, Refferances wer call for where upon the minutes of the proceeding meeting wer red, approved and adopted. 3rd order, new business wer called for Brother Stephen Herrimon and his wife, Poilee Ellen Herrimon, was granted letters of dismission from the Church, on motion Brother Headley Coburn wer excluded by his request on motion the church went into and election for Clerk which resulted in the election of Brother Richard nuckolls on motion the meeting adjourned. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Richard Nuckolls, C.Clerk Walnut Grove, March 15th 1873 We have had no Conferance since the date of the above minutes on the account of having no Pastor. Richard Nuckolls, Clerk Walnut Grove, Mach 15th 1873 We a part of the members met at this place for the purpose of holding conferance in order to transact such business as may come before us. elder C.C. McDaniel read a in the Testement and after Prare we proceeded, on motion Elder C.C. McDaniel appointed moderator, 2nd, minutes of our September meeting were read, approved and adopted. 3rd, by motion the Church proceeded to elect a Pastor which resulted in the election of Elder C.C. McDaniel. 4th by request Sister N.C. Coburn were granted a letter of dismission. 5, on motion the meeting adjourned. C.C.McDaniel, Moderator Richard Nuckolls, Clerk Walnut Grove, Saturday May 16th 1873 A few members of Walnut Grove church met persuant to adjournment, we had no preaching and no conferance to the few present. Lords day Meeting, May 17th 1873, after sermon by Elder C.CMcDaniel the Church were called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, an opportunity was offerd for the reception of members no application made. 2nd, Referances cll for whe upon the minuits were read, approved and adopted. 3rd order, New buisiness by motion that we go in to and election for Deacons which resulted in the election of Brother J.W. Cogins, & J. H. Brewer, by motion brother Milo Scott and A.S. Dorris be invited to attend for the purpose of organizing a prsbitery. 4th by motion The third Lords day in June is set apart for the purpose of ordaneing the Deacons. 5th by request Sister Martha Neilson granted a letter of dismission. 6th by motion that that the clerk be appointed tresure for the church by motion the meeting adjourned. Elder C.C. McDaniel, Mod Richard Nuckolls, Clerk June Meeting 1873 The church met presuant to adjournment. After sermon by the Pastor the church was called to orderand transacted the following business: 1st, The minutes of the preceeding meeting were read and adopted. 2nd, No other business appearing we adjourned to meet on next day. Lords day the Pastor treached the ordination sermon after which the he in connection with Elder Milo Scott announced to the church That they were ready to ordain the deacons, where upon Brothers J.W. Coggin and J. H. Brewer were presented to them and were ordained as Deacons of this Church in due form. On motion we adjourned to meet at the next regular meeting. Elder C.C. McDaniel, Moderator Richard Nuckolls, Clerk Walnut Grove, July 17th 1873 The church met pursuant to adjournment. Sermon by the Pastor after which the Church was called to order by the Pastor and proceeded to transact the following business: 1st, Minutes of the proceeding meeting were read, approved and adopted. 2nd, An oppertunity was given for person to join the Church none Came forward. 3, A circular letter from the Executive board of the Association was presented and read, calling on the Church for money to sustain a Missionary in the destitution. 4, It was resloved that we hold a meeting of days, beginning on Saturday before the Third Lords day in September next, By motion adjourned. R. Nuckolls, Clerk August Meeting 1873 On Saturday before the 3rd Lord’s day in August a few members present. No Services. Next day Lord’s day. Sermon by the Pastor after which the Church was called to order by him. Business transacted: 1st, Minutes of preceeding meeting were read, approved and adopted. 2nd, No members were received. 3, An election was held to choose delegates to represent us in the Unity Association. Which resulted in the choice of the following brethern: Elder A.S. Dorris, Elder C.C McDaniel and John A. Vaughan. No further business appearing we adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3rd Lord’s day in Sept. next. C.C. McDaniel, Mod. Richard Nuckolls, Clerk The following brethern gave the amt. annexted to their names for Minutes of Association: Willard Brown Cash 50cts John Vaughan Cash 10cts John Coggin paid 15cts C.C. McDaniel Cash 15cts A.S. Dorris Cash 15cts Minute money cts Richard Nuckolls 20cts John Dorris 15cts Minutes misplaced or meeitng disappointed from August to January, this. Walnut Grove, Saturday Janurary the 17th 1874 A few members of the church met. No Pastor. On motion Brother J.W. Coggin was appointed Moderator Protem & S. Herrimon, Clerk Protem. After reading a chapter & Prayer by the Moderator, The church were called to order & transacted the following business: Passed by the 1st & 2nd order of business & opened in the 3rd, New business were called for E.N. Dorris requested that the church withdraw their fellowship from him, on motion he were excluded. On motion the church went into an election for a Pastor which resulted in the election of Brother J.H. Curry. On motion Brother G.P Vaughan were appointed Messinger to bear a message to Brother J.H. Curry. On motion the meeting adjourned. J.W. Coggin, Modrator Protem S. Herrimon, Clk, Protem Feb Meeting 1874 According toprevious appointment the church convened at Walnut Grove Saturday before the fourth Lord’s day in Feb. After services by their new pastor, J.H. Curry, they sat in conference. After inviting the visiting brother and sister to take seats with them, they proceeded to transact the following business: 1st, Finding their clerk absent, they elected J.W. Harris clerk protem. 2nd Called for the minutes of the last meeting. 3rd, A charge prefured a gainst sister Elizabeth Sills which resulted in an exclusion from the church. 4th, A charge prefured like the one above, for dancing, against sister Winnie Rogers which resulted, also, in an esclusion from the church. No other business on hand a motion was made and carried for an adjournment. J.H. Curry, Moderator J.W. Harris, Clerk Protem Walnut Grove, March the 20th 1874 The church met persuant to adjournment. Sermon by the Pastor. After which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, on motion S. Herrimon were elected clerk protemn. an oppertuniity was them given to any person wishing to unite with the church to do so, no applications was made. 2nd, Refferences were called for where upon the minutes of Jan & February meetings were read, approved and adopted. 3rd, New Business was called for 1st sister Atha Lambert confessed to the church that she did dance & said she was sorry for it & she said she felt that God had forgiven her for it & that she wished to remain in the church. On motion she was restored to the full fellowship of the church. 3rd the clerk having requested the church to release him from the clerkship of the church, the church taking his request in to consideration, Elected S. Herrimon church clerk. On motion the meeting adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 4th Lords day in April. J.H. Curry, Moderator S. Herrimon Clerk April (The following minutes were very faded and difficult to read) Minutes of Walnut Grove Church May 23rd 1874. The Church persuant to adjournment. Sermon by the Pastor after which the Church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, the way was opened for the reception of members, no application was made. 2nd, References were called for. Where upon the minutes of the preceeding were read, approved and adopted. 3rd order, New business was called for. On motion the Saturday meetings would be held 2 o’clock P.M. for three? months. On motion the Church recalled Sister Nelson? church letter. Bro. C.C. McDaniel appointed to get the letter. Rumors of unworthy conduct of some of the brethern were lain before the church and on motion they were dropped and parties who are knowing to the rumors being facts wer requested to prefer charges. The following resolution was offered and adopted. Resolved that we request each member of this church who have been absent for twelve months to come forward or write to the church and give their reasons within two months for their nonattendance and that each member be notified of this resolution and then is he fails to come, this church will take action against? them for nonattendance. J.H. Curry, Moderator S. Herrimon, C.C. Minutes of the Walnut Grove Church June 21th 1874, The church met persuant to adjournment. sermon by the pastor, Elder J. H. Curry. Text Gal. 5 chapter, 15 verses. After which the church sat in conference and transacted the following business: 1st, opened the way for the reception of members. No application was made. 2nd, Reference called for, the minute of last meeting absent. Bro. McDaniel asked further time to report getting Sister Nelsons letter of dismission. 3rd, A notice being served on Brother William Nuckolls & wife by Bro. McDaniel reports that they live a considerable distance from the church and will attend as often as they can and that they attend church regularly at Toon’s Station. On motion adjourned to meet next regular meeting. J.H. Curry Moderator C.C. McDaniel, Clk protem Walnut Grove Church, Aug. 22th 1874 The church met pursuant to adjournment. On motion Bro C.C. McDaniel was appointed Mod. protem. The church was then called to order and transacted the following business: On motion the church despensed with the first order of business. 2nd order, Reference was called for, Next? the minutes of the preceeding meeting not being present no refernce was found. 3rd, New business was called for. On motion Bro. C.C. McDaniel, A.S. Dorris and John Dorris were appointed delegates to the Unity Baptist Association. After which Bro. S. Herrimon offered his resignation as clerk of the church. On motion his resignation was received. And on motion Bro. John A. Vaughan was elected in his stead. On motion Bro. C.C McDaniel was appointed to write the church letter to the association. On motion the church adjourned to meet the next day at 11 o’clock A.M. Eld. C.C. McDaniel, Moderator protem S. Herrimon, C.C. Walnut Grove, Aug 23rd 1874, This being the beginning of our protracted meeting the church met and adjourned from day to day. When on the 24th Bro. John Lambert and wife, sister Martha Lambert, presented their letter, which being read they both were received into the church. No other business appearing conference adjourned for the present. And next business appearing on 28th. The church being called together in conference when Bro. Carrell Climer and wife, M.C. Climer, presented their letter which being read they were received into the church. After which the following came presented themselves to unite with the church by experience. to wit: Nancy J. Sanders, Lina Ragon, R.F.T. Vincent, E.E. McDaniel, T.L. Jernigan and Geo. M. Dorris who being received into the church now stand approved for baptism. The next appeared on the 29th, The church being called together in conference, the following named personages came forward; to wit, Lihergus Scott and wife, M.F. Scott, Levin Murley and M.C. Dorris who after relating their experiences to the church now stand approved for baptism. Next, sister N.J. Parrish presented a letter it being read she was recieved into the church. After which sister Winnie Rogers presented herself to the church for reinstatement. She was unaimously restored. After service the church was called together in conference when sister M.C. Coburn came forward to unite with the church by experience who was received and now stands approved for baptism. Next Bro. Wm.L. Waller and Sister Hannah Scott presented themselves and were received by experience. They now stand approved for baptism. The church having dispensed with her business adjourned to meet the next day. It being 30th when the church was called together in conference at the water’s edge when Bro. Sandy Scott & Lou Ervin came forward and united with the church by experience and the ordinance of baptism then administered, adjourned to meet at church at eleven 11 o’clock A.M. After service no other business on hand. The church adjourned till the next regular meeting. Elder J.H. Curry, Mod. R. Nuckolls, C.C. protem Walnut Grove Church, Sept. Sunday 27th 1874 The church pursuant to adjournment. sermon by the pastor, J.H. Curry, Text Corn. 15th chaptr 22. After which the church sat in conference and transacted the following business: 1st, opened the way for the reception of members. Where upon the following named persons came forward to unite by experience; to wit, W.M. Ragon, J.W. Cooksy, W.A.H. McDaniel, Demarius Fitts, E.L. Vaughan and M.E.F. Vaughan, who now stand approved for baptism. 2nd, references were called for. The minutes of the preceeding were read, approved and adopted. Bro. McDaniel asked further time in regards to sister Nelson’s letter. It was granted. On motion an election will be held for a pastor at the next regular meeting. The minutes were read, approved and adopted. On motion we adjourned till next regular meeting. J.H. Curry, Mod. John A. Vaughan, Clk. Walnut Grove, Saturday, Oct the 24th 1874 The church met persuant to adjornment. Sermon by Eld. J. W. Harris. After which the church was called to order by the pastor and transacted the following business. 1st, the way was opened for the reception of members, where upon the following names came forward and united with the church by experience: to wit, Fannie Mills, Samantha Taylor, Sophronia Taylor and Mollie Harris, who now stand approved for baptism. 2nd, refferences was called for where upon Bro. A.S. Dorris brought or had brought forward a refference of the church’s indebtedness to him of $3.00 it being the purchase money for a stove, on motion the church went into a collection and said money over to him. The next business appearing the church went into an election for pastor to serve them for the year 1875. Where upon Eld. J.H. Curry was realected. No other business appearing conference adjourned. J.H. Curry, Mod John A. Vaughan, Clk. Walnut Grove, Saturday, November 21th 1874 The church net persuant to adjournment. Sermon by the pastor after wihich the church was called together in conference and transacted the following business: 1st, The way was opened for the reception of members no applications was made. 2nd, the minutes of last meeting was read, approved and adopted. No other business appearing the church adjourned. J.H. Curry, Mod. John A. Vaughan, C.C. Walnut Grove, January the 23rd 1875 The church met persuant to adjornment. Sermon by the pastor after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, The way was opened for the reception of members, no applications was made. 2nd, Refferences was called for the minute of the preceeding meeting not being present no references was found. 3rd. New business was called for no business appearing , on motion the church adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 4th Lords day in February. J.H. Curry, Mod. John A. Vaughan, C.C. (No minutes found for Feb. or March 1875) Walnut Grove, Saturday, April 24th 1875 The church met persuant to adjournment and transacted the following buiness: 1st. The way was opened for the reception of members, no application as made. 2nd, the minutes of the preceeding meetings were read, approved and adopted. No other business appearing the meeting adjourned. J.H. Curry, Mod John A. Vaughan, Clerk Walnut G., May 22nd 1875 The church met persuant to adjournment. After sermon by the pastor, the church was called to order and transacted the following business: On motion S. Herrimon was appointed Clerk protem. The way was then opened for the reception of members, no application was made. 2nd, Refferences was called for the minutes of the preceeding meeting not being present no refference was found. 3rd, New business was called for. On motion it was resolved that Saturday meeting be a 2 o’clock in the evening. On motion the meeting adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 4th Lords day in June. J.H. Curry, Mod. S. Herrimon, Clerk protem Walnut Grove, June the 26th 1875 The church met persuant to adjournment. Sermon by the pastor, after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, The way was opened for the reception of members no application made. 2nd, Refference called for where upon the minutes of the preceeding meeting was read, approved and adopted. 3rd, New business called for were upon Sister Mollie Harris asked the church for a letter of dismission. On motion it was granted. Sister Lucretia Dorris asked a letter of dismission it was granted also. N.R. Dorris having been excluded from this church asked the church restore him into the fellowship and to grant him a letter of dismission from this church to join the church at Chewalla. On motion it was resolved that the clerk of this church be instructed to write a statement to the church at Chewalla and say to them that if they were willing to receive him upon their knowledge of him and his life among them that we had nothing to say to the contrary. No other business appearing the meeting adjourned. J.H. Curry, Mod John A. Vaughan, Clerk Walnut Grove, August the 21st 1875 The church met according to previous adjournment. Sermon by the pastor after which the church was called to order and transacted the following business: 1st, The way was opened for the reception of members no application made. 2nd, Refference called for where upon the minutes of the preceeding meeting was read, approved and adopted. 3rd, New business called for were upon the church went into an election of delegates to represent them in the association, the election resulted in the election of the following brether viz. J.H. Dorris, G.M. Dorris & John A. Vaughan. No other business appearing the meeting adjourned. J.H. Curry, Mod John A. Vaughan, C.C. Walnut Grove, September the 26th 1875 The church met. Sermon by the pastor after which the church was called together in conference and transacted the following business: 1st, The way was opened for the reception of members, no application made. 2nd, Refference called for. The minutes of the preceeding meeting was read and adopted. 3rd, New business called for on motion it was resolved that the time of meeting on Saturday be changed from 2 o’clock in the evening to eleven in the morning. The meeting adjourned. J.H. Curry, Mod. John A. Vaughan, C. Clerk Walnut Grove, Saturday, Oct. the 23rd 1875 The church met. Sermon by Eld. C.C. McDaniel. After which the church was called together in conference when Bro. C.C. McDaniel was appointed moderator. The church then transacted the following business: 1st, The way was opened for the reception of members, where upon W.M. Terry presented himself before the church and was received for baptism. Refference was then called for where upon the minutes of the preceeding meeting was read and adopted. New business called for where upon Bro. L.M. Murley asked for a letter of dismission, it was granted him. On motion it was resolved that a resolution passed in the year 1871 to prevent any person from uniting with the church only at a regular meeting be recalled. No other business appearing the meeting adjourned to meet at the waters edge on tomorrow at 9 o’clock P.M. C.C. McDaniel, Mod. prot. Jno. A. Vaughan, C.C. Walnut Grove, Nov the 27th 1875 The church met persuant to adjournment. The pastor not being present, Elder C.C. McDaniel sung a hymn and held prar after which the church was colled to gather in conference when Eld. C.C. McDaniel was elected Mod. protem and Richard Nuckolls clerk protem, after which the following business was transacted; first and second orders of business omitted. New business called for it the time set a part to elect a pastor for the next term. An election was ordered which resulted in the electing of Elder C.C. McDaniel to serve for the ensuing year. After which charges was prefered against Bro. W.M. Terry Which charge was received by the church and he was excluded in due form. No other business appearing we adjourned to meet on tomorrow. C.C. McDaniel, Mod. protem Richard Nuckolls, Clerk protem Walnut Grove, January the 22nd, 1876 The church met persuant to adjornment. Sermon by the pastor. After which the church was called to gather in conference and transacted the following business: 1st, The way was opened for the reception of members no application made. Refference called for where upon the minutes of preceeding meetings was read and adopted. No other business appearing the meeting adjourned. C.C. McDaniel, Mod. John A. Vaughan, Clerk Walnut Grove, May the 28th 1876 The church met according to previous appointment. Sermon by the pastor after which the church was called to gather in conference and transacted the following business: 1st, The way was opened for the reception of members, no application made. 2nd, Referances called for. The minutes of the preceeding meetings not being present no Refferances found. New business called for none presented. No other business appearing the meeting adjourned. C.C. McDaniel, Mod. John A. Vaughan, Clerk Walnut Grove, June the 25th 1876 The church met and transacted the following business: 1st, The way was opened for the reception of membes, no application made. 2nd, Refferances called for. Where upon the minutes of the preceeding meeting was rea and adopted. New business called for. As there is being money raised to repare the church house. On motion a committee was appointed to superintend the work. Names of committee: Richard Nuckolls, J.H. Brewer, I.H. Hornsby, J.A. Lambert and W.S. Hornsby. A charge was prefered againt Bro. Sandy Scott for drunkness. A commitee also appointed to investigate his case and report to the church. Committee: Stephen Herrimon, C. Climer and John A. Vaughan. No other business appearing the meeting adjourned. C.C. McDaniel, Mod. John A. Vaughan, Clerk Walnut Grove, July the 23rd 1876 The church met and transacted the following business: The pastor not being present, Bro. J.W. Coggins was elected Mod. protem. The first order of business was passed over. Refferance call for where upon the minutes of the preceeding meeting was read and adopted. Committee on Bro. Sandy Scotts case reported to the church, they found him guilty. The church received the report and released the committee. The charge was taken up and discussed and action had which resulted in his exclusion. New business was them called for it being time to elect delegates to the association the church went into an election for delegates. The following Brethern chosen: Eld. C.C. McDaniel, W.M. Ragon, G.M. Dorris and (W.S. Hornsby in case of failure). On motion it was resolved that this church reorganize the next regular meeting and that each member be requested to come and reinstate their names on the church roll. On motion it was resolved that a committee of two be appointed to collect funds to pay for the pastor for his labor. Committee: W.S. Hornsby and J.A. Lambert. No other business appearing the meeting adjourned. J. W. Coggins, Mod. protem John A. Vaughan, Clerk August the 27th 1876 Brother W.S. Hornsby made clerk protem. The church opened for member. Reference called for minutes read and letter to association read and adopted. Resolution of last meeting recinded. Brother W. Nuckolls called for a letter for himself and wife, Brother James Young asked for a letter, all which was granted. No other business appearing the meeting adjourned. W.S. Hornsby, Clerk protem Called Meeting of Walnut Grove Church, Feb. 11th 1877. After sermon by Elder C.C. McDaniel. On motion C.C. McDaniel was appointed moderator protem and S. Herrimon clerk protem. The church was then called to order. It being a called meeting for the purpose of electing a pastor for the year 1877. New business was called for on motion the church went into an election for pastor which resulted in the election of C.C. McDaniel. The church then adjourned to meet on Saturday before the 3rd Lords day in March at 11 o’clock. C.C. McDaniel, Mod. protem S. Herrimon, Clerk protem March the 18th 1877 The church met and transacted the following business: 1st, The way was opened for the reception of members no application made. 2nd, Refference called for where upon the minutes of the preceeding meeting was read and adopted. No other business appearing the meeting adjourned. C.C. McDaniel, Mod. John A. Vaughan, Clerk Walnut Grove, July the 15th 1877 The church met persuant to adjournment. After sermon by the pastor the church was called to order and transacted the following business: on motion S. Herrimon was appointed clerk protem. The way was then opened for the reception of members no application was made. Refferences was called for none found. New business was called for. On motion letters of dismission was granted to Antenet Henson, W.S. Hornsby, and Hannah Scott. On motion conference adjourned untill the 3 Lords day in August. C.C. McDaniel, Mod. S. Herrimon, Clerk protem Note: These minutes were transcribed from a copy of handwritten minutes in the possession of Hugh Morton Milstead by James H. Ragon. Listed below are names appearing in the minutes who are related to the transcriber, James H. Ragon. Thomas F.(Franklin) Welch gg-uncle James C.(Caswell) Ervin g-grandfather A.(Archer) S. Dorris gg-uncle Elizabeth Bradford gg-uncle Sarah Ervin g-grandmother John Bradford gg-uncle Stephen Scoggin husband of gg-aunt, Martha Welch Eliza Bradford 2nd wife of gg-grandfather, William G. Bradford Emily Bradford wife of gg-uncle, John Bradford Stephen Herrimon gg-uncle C.C. McDaniel husband of g-aunt, Cynthia P. Ervin J.(James) F.(Franklin) Dorris son of gg-uncle, Archer S. Dorris J.(James) W.(Washington) Ervin g-uncle G.(George) S.(Synder) Faucett gg-uncle Martha E. Dorris ? Cynthia McDaniel g-aunt Joseph Herriman gg-grandfather Fanny(Frances Elizabeth Herriman) Vaughan daughter of gg-uncle, Joseph Herriman Elizabeth Herriman daughter of gg-uncle, Stephen Herriman Wiley Herriman son of gg-uncle, Joseph Herriman B.(Brice) Curry husband of gg-aunt, Matilda Bradford Adolphus Ervin g-uncle E(Edmund) H. (Henson) Dorris g-grandfather Matilda Curry gg-aunt Adelia Ervin wife of g-uncle, James Washington Ervin Elizabeth Ervin grandmother J.(Joseph) J.(John) Ervin g-uncle W.(William) A.(Adolphus) Ervin g-uncle G.(George) P.(Peter) Vaughan husband of g-aunt, Judith Catherine Ragan Isaac Hornsby husband of gg-aunt, Tennessee Faucett Bunyan Bradford gg-uncle Lina Ragon (M. Angelina Ragon?) g-aunt Geo. M.(Milton) Dorris grandfather M.C. Dorris ? N.(Nathaniel) R. Dorris gg-uncle Lucretia Dorris wife of gg-uncle, Nathaniel R. Dorris W.(Willis) S. Hornsby husband of gg-aunt, Ruth Anna Faucett W.(William) M.(Matthew) Hornsby husband of gg-aunt, Frances Faucett E.(Edmund) N.(Napolean) Dorris son of gg-uncle, Archer S. Dorris Matilda Ann Faucett wife of gg-uncle, George S. Faucett, and daughter of gg-uncle, John Bradford