Isle of Wight County Virginia USGenWeb Archives History.....Churches

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Brief Histories of some Isle of Wight Co. Churches 
"The Smithfield (VA) Times," (Vol. 8, No. 40) Mar. 21, 1929 


This Issue of The Times Is Devoted To and Published By 
   The Women's Club of Smithfield

Sect. 2, pp. 3-4  

CHURCHES OF ISLE OF WIGHT 

EPISCOPAL CHURCH

  The first place of worship, which was the beginning of the Episcopal Church 
in Virginia at Jamestown, was described by Capt. John Smith thus: "We did hang 
an awning to three or four trees, to shadow us from the sun; our walls were 
rails of wood, our seats unhewed trees, til we cut planks; our pulpit a bar of 
wood nailed to two neighboring trees; in foul weather we shifted into an old 
rotten tnet." [sic;tent] 

  This was their first church, until by, the efforts of the Rev. Mr. Hunt, who 
came over with them, they "built a homely thing like a barn, set up crotchets, 
covered with rafts, sedge and earth, so was also the walls."  Smith also said, 
"The best of our houses were of the like curiosity, but for the most part far 
much worse workmanship, that could neither well defend wind nor rain." 

  Morning and evening daily, they had service, and two sermons on Sunday. 
"and, every three months, the holy communion."  Mr. Hunt died not many years 
after the settlement, and in the absence of a minister they still had daily 
prayers, and a reading by some competent person. 

  In 1610, Rev. Bucke came over with the new governor, Lord De la Ware.  The 
colony weakened by disease, starvation, and many having been killed by the 
Indians, was to a pitiable condition.  The church bell was rung "and such as 
were able to crawl out of their miserable dwellings, repaired thither to join 
in the zealous and sorrowful prayer of their faithful minister, who pleaded in 
that solemn hour for his afflicted bretheren, and himself before the Lord 
their God." 

  After the church was repaired it had "fair broad windows, to shut and open." 
The pulpit and pews were of cedar, the latter "with a front hewn below like a 
canoe."  By the Lord Governor it was kept passing sweet and trimmed up with 
divers flowers."  "Every morning at the ringing of the bell about ten o'clock, 
each man addressed himself to prayer, and so at four o'clock, before supper." 

  In March, 1624, an assembly was held whose records have been preserved.  It 
appears that the ministers were allowed "ten pounds of tobacco and a bushel of 
corn per poll, provided the whole allowance did not exceed fifteen hundred 
pounds of tobacco and sixteen barrels of corn."  There were strict laws in 
regard to church duties, not only for the ministers, but for the people.". 
Whoever absented himself from divine service any Sunday, without an allowable 
excuse, was fined one pound of tobacco; if he absented himself a month, he was 
fined fifty pounds.  And all had to "yield readie obedience under pain of 
censure."  A minister, "absent from his charge above two months in the year, 
forfeited half his means; if absent more than four months, he forfeited his 
whole means and cure." 

  It was difficult to get ministers, and when one remembers that the 
supervision and control was lodged in the Bishop of England, so far away, it 
is easy to see how hampered was the church, and yet they found time and 
opportunity to give religious instruction not only to the colonists 
themselves, their children and servants, but in many cases the native Indians. 

  A number of churches were built at intervals of seven miles from the lower 
part of Norfolk County, to and beyond the Appomatox River.  Only few of these 
remain. 

  The "Old Brick Church," of Isle of Wight still stands a sacred shrine and 
monument to the past.  Beside it is a ravine, once filled with water enough to 
float a large boat - so says one of the oldest inhabitants - and near it a 
spring, from which tradition says, Pocahontas drank.  Of this there is no 
certainty, but the water is cool and sweet, and doubtless round it gathered 
those people of the past, those makers of history, to discuss letters from 
"home," depredations of the Indians, politics, and as one stands there today, 
almost it seems holy ground. 

  The church is situated five miles from Smithfield, on the "King's Highway" 
to Norfolk.  It is also five miles from old St. John's Church in Nansemond, 
and five miles from the James River Bridge. Joseph Bridger, father of Col. 
Joseph Bridger of the King's Council for the Colony of Virginia, began the 
construction in 1632.  Col. Joseph Bridger lived on his farm, ''White Marsh," 
about three miles from the church, and was buried there in 1682, the grave 
being marked with a marble slab.  After the resoration of the church which was 
begun in 1887, his bones with the slab were removed and placed in the church. 
Mr. Charles E. Davis, then a small boy, and whose father owned the farm gave 
permission for the removal, was an eye witness to the disinterment and thereby 
claims a more intimate knowledge of Col. Joseph Bridger, himself, than many.

  It is by all accounts the oldest church in America, within its original 
walls.  It has throughout the years, had some kind or roof covering it, being 
re-shingled in 1737 and again in 1838. 

  From the war of the Revolution to some time about 1830, it was almost 
completely abandoned.  For a while followers of O'Kelley worshiped there. 

  Its restoration was begun by the Rev. David Barr, rector of Christ Church in 
Smithfield in 1887.  Before he had completed the work he moved to Washington, 
D.C., and the duty of finishing the undertaking devolved upon his successor, 
Rev. F.G. Scott, and the vestry of the church in Smithfield, among whom 
special mention should be given to Mr. R.S. Thomas.  The funds were subscribed 
to by all sorts and conditions of people, both locally and from other states. 

  In describing it, one could not wax more eloquent than Col. E.M. Morrison. 
He writes: "It stands today beautiful within, and without, and filled with 
memorials to those connected with its own history, and that of the colony. 
Its stained glass chancel windows, eighteen feet by twelve, made in London, 
divided into twelve sections, each dedicated to some well known character, 
prominent in church and state, is a most striking piece of art.  All the 
windows are of stained glass, memorials to those connected with its history, 
of beautiful design.  Its carved altar an exquisite reading desk; its wine 
glass pulpit; its beautiful foot of Carara marble, made in England, are 
especially attractive.  The pews are of the original style, made of native 
heart pine.  All these things impress the worshippers with a deep sense of 
solemnity when worshipping the 'God of our Fathers,' where they themselves, 
some hundred years ago, worshipped; and to the transient visitor, it cannot 
fail to be interesting, both on account of its intrinsic beauty, and disign 
[sic; design] and the historical memories of other and ancient days in the 
life of your country it brings to his recollection." 

  In 1920, a memorial Association was organized for the purpose of keeping up 
the grounds, and caring for the graves.  Like all of the old churches of this 
period the church yard was used as a cemetery, and though there are many grave 
stones venerable with age about this old edifice to mark the last resting 
place of those who once worshiped there, the majority of graves are unmared 
and the grass waves over the forgotten tombs of many. 

  In the same year, and at the same time our endowment fund was established 
for the upkeep of the church building, and the surrounding enclosure.  The 
memorial association to function until sufficient funds should accumulate by 
the Endowment Association, to take care of both church and grounds.  Every 
year on "Pilgrimage Day," usually in May or June, hundreds assemble at the Old 
Brick Church, now called St. Luke's.  A sermon is preached or a historical 
sketch is given of the early history; the Holy Communion administered, and 
there under the shade of the trees a bountiful lunch is served by the ladies 
of the Episcopal Church in Smithfield.  In the afternoon the association hold 
their business session, and the visitors go away in a reverential revery for 
no one can visit that sacred temple without feeling his heart lifted up in a 
spiritual exaltation, and experience a nearness to the things unseen, that is 
not felt any where else. 

  In 1781, when it was rumored abroad that Tarleton intended to make a raid on 
Smithfield and to destroy the records, Mrs. Frances Young, wife of the deputy 
clerk, in the absence of her husband, who was then in the regiment of Col. 
J.S. Wills, buried the records in a trunk.  When restored to the clerk's 
office, one of these record books 

(Continued on Page Four) 


CHURCHES OF ISLE OF WIGHT 

EPISCOPAL CHURCH

(Continued from Page Three) 

had been so much spoiled by dampness that it became an easy prey to worms and 
soon became illegible and fell to pieces.  It was this book, that tradition 
says, contained entries regarding the proceedings relative to the erection of 
the Old Brick Church.  The ministers of this church, besides Falkner and 
Hodges, so far as known, were: Rev. Thomas Bailey prior to and during 1724; 
Rev. Mr. Barlow, 1726-27; Rev. John Gammiee, 1729-1743; Rev. John Camm, 1745, 
for a few months only; Rev. John Reid, 1746-1757; Rev. Mr. Milner, 1766-1770; 
Rev. I.H. Burgees, 1770-76; Rev. Hubard, died on the Glebe in 1802; Rev. 
Samuel Butler, about 1780; Rev. William G. H. Jones, 1826-1832.  The vestry 
from 1724 to 1777 were: Lawrence Baker, William Bridger, Thomas Woodley, Maj. 
Joseph Bridger, Arthur Smith, Thomas Smtih, Johran Thomas, Robert Tynes, 
William Hodsden, Joseph Bridger, Col. Joseph Bridger, Nicholas Parker, Richard 
Baker, James Bridger, Richard Hardy, John Day.  This church now has no 
minister of its own, but the rector of Christ Church, Smithfield hold services 
there a few months of the year, and the vestry of this church serve in the 
same capacity for the old church.  Many of the other denominations nearby, 
cherish the sacred edifice and all that it stands for, and are united through 
it, with all other churches in the "evangelization of the world." 

Christ Episcopal Church - Smithfield 

  Rev. William G.H. Jones served the First Parish from 1826-1830, (according 
to the record of Mr. R.S. Thomas), succeeded by Rev. Hevges, 1831-1833.

  Under the latter Christ Church In Smithfield was built in 1832, just two 
hundred years later than historic old St. Luke's.  A nearly complete record of 
the ministers who have served this church since its erection follows: Revs. 
Thomas Smith, John Downing, John C. McCabe, Aurelius Smith, C.M. Colton, J.C. 
Robert, Perkins, Hoxton, Edward Wrath, F. A. Mede, David Barr, Frank Scott, 
Robert Carter, Francis Lee, R.R. Phelps, Floyd Cartwright, and William Bracy 
Shaw.  The present vestrymen are: J.W. Briggs, L.L. Chapman, W.F. Moody, Dr. 
Rea Parker, A.S. Johnson, W.P. Warren and J.L. Warner. 

The Bay Church 

  There was another church of the Episcopal denomination called the Bay Church 
and erected in 1750, which was held on Burwells Bay (originally Warrosquayoke 
Bay).  The land is now owned by Mr. Thomas R. Turner, having come into 
possession of the Turner family about 1810. 

  The building was torn down and a kitchen, at the family home across the 
highway was made of the brick.  The pews were used in making partitions in a 
barn.  The last named building was utterly destroyed by a stroke of lightning, 
deemed by many the wrath of God, because of the desecration of His holy 
temple.  There are no remains of the church building, but a few graves are 
there in the quiet church ground.  And only the whispering winds in the tree 
tops, and the carolling of birds, break the stillness, where once they 
assembled to lift their voices in songs of praise and prayer to God.


Sect. 2, p. 4, col. 1-5  

MILL SWAMP BAPTIST

  It is generally believed that the first Baptist Church was organized in 
Virginia in 1714, and that this is Mill Swamp. 

  In Benedict's general history of the Baptist denomination in America we 
find: In consequence of letters from Virginia, Robert Nordin and Thomas White 
were ordained in Loudon, [sic; London,] in May, 1714, and soon sailed for 
Virginia.  But White died by the way, and Nordin arrived in Virginia and 
gathered a church at a place called Burley, in the county of Isle of Wight. 
There were probably a number of Baptists settled in the place before the 
arrival of Nordin, by whose request, and for the service of whom, he and 
White ware ordained, and undertook the distant voyage; but who, or how many 
these were; or how long they had been there, are inquiries which we cannot 
answer. 

  Mr. Nordin continued preaching at Burley and other places until he died in 
a good old age in 1725.  Two years after his death, in 1727, Casper Mintz and 
Richard Jones, both preachers, arrived from England, and settled with the 
church at Burley and Jones became their pastor. 

  This church continued for about forty or fifty years.  During, or towards 
the end of that period many of its members removed to North Carolina, and 
through them, other churches were established there. 

  In 1756, the church at Burley, or Burleigh, sent a letter to the 
Philadelphia Association, saying in part, "We, the above mentioned church, 
confess ourselves to be under clouds of darkness concerning the faith of 
Jesus Christ, etc."  This was signed Casper Mintz, Richard Jones, Randall 
Allen, Joseph Mattgum, Christopher Atkinson, Benjamin Atkinson, David 
Atkinson, David Atkinson, [sic] Thomas Vafer, (this was often spelled Capher 
or Cofer), Samuel Jones, William Jordan, John Allen, John Powell, Joseph 
Atkinson. 

  After this there is a period of many years of unrecorded history. 

  Parke P. Deans, in his brochure, "The First Baptist Church in Virginia," 
maintains that this church continued to survive, giving as his reason that 
the Rev. Richard Jones did not die until 1762, during which time he may have 
continued to hold the church together.  He also states that Paul Palmer and 
Joseph Parker, Free Will Baptist, ministered to these people from 1757 to 
1765.  He thinks Miller Vanhorn and Gano, of the Philadelphia Association 
answered the letter and visited them on their travels in Virginia during the 
period. 

  In 1775 Thomas Cafer, or Cofer, deeded to the Baptist Society the land on 
which Mill Swamp now stands. 

  In Col. E.M. Morrison's history of Isle of Wight, he says: "Richard Jones 
was its pastor for over thirty years, then following twenty years of 
unrecorded history, and after a career of about forty-three years became 
extinct and was lost to history.  In 1772 the Rev. John Meglamore, from 
Raccoon Swamp, now Antioch Church, Sussex county, preached and baptised a 
number of people; these people, on July 2nd, 1774, met near the site of the 
present church and organized themselves into a Baptist Church, with David 
Barrow as pastor, under his name.  For several years this church was called, 
"The Church in Isle of Wight', or 'David Barrow Church.'  In 1791 it assumed 
its present name.  This old church sent out colonies at a later period to 
Smithfield, Moore's Swamp, Tucker Swamp and Bethesda."  The first meeting 
house of this church was built in 1840, and repaired and remodeled in 1895, 
and again in 1915.  It was burned to the ground on January 22, 1928.  The 
brick walls stood for a while and then fell.  The pews, windows, doors, were 
not burned as there was time for their removal.  The roof caught from sparks 
from the chimney.  A beautiful new colonial brick building was immediately 
begun and is now completed.  It is a veritable monument to the faithful, 
loyal, self-sacrificing spirit of its members, and a church of which they are 
justly proud.  The members of the board of trustees are: B.G. Carroll, E.F. 
Little, S.L. Gwaltney, R.M. Carroll. R.L. Harvell and G.A. Gwaltney. 

  Rev. R.A. McKay, of Campostella Heights, Norfolk, will enter upon the 
ministry of their new church about April 1, of this year.


Sect. 2, p. 4, cols. 4-5 

BEAVER DAM BAPTIST

  The Beaver Dam Baptist Church is most fortunate in having almost complete 
records of its history through the one hundred years of its existence.  It 
celebrated its centennial at the church on September 2, 1928, and many long 
absent, returned to mingle together and to renew old associations. 

  This church was organized on Feb. 7, 1828.  Elder Robert T. Daniel and 
Simon Murfre were influential members of the group, and the following eleven 
brethren were present: William H. Ballard, Mills Carr, John Council, John 
Carr, Sr., John Carr, Jr., Elisha Carr, Elias Beale, Joseph Vaughan, Jack 
Daughtrey, Henry Corbitt, and Spencer Carr.  Mr. Carr Bowers was chosen 
moderator and William M. Jones, temporary clerk.  Joseph Vaughan and William 
Ballard were appointed deacons and John Councill, clerk for the church.  At 
this meeting letters of dismission were read from South Quay and Black Creek 
Churches.  Rev. Simon Murfre was the first pastor.  In May, 1828, the first 
slaves were taken into the church, later others were admitted.  In June, 1867, 
a group of Negroes applied for dismission to join a colored church organized 
at Franklin Depot in Southampton coun- 

(Continued On Page 5) 


Sect. 2, p. 5, cols. 1-2 

CHURCHES OF ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY 

BEAVER DAM BAPTIST

(Continued from Page Four) 

ty.  There was a gradual decrease in colored membership, some by letter of 
dismission and others, who sought a livelihood in other sections.  In 1879, 
a colored church was organized Carrsville, which grew out of the colored 
membership of Beaver Dam Church.  This new organization was assisted most 
generously in building this church by its former white brethren. 

  Under the leadership of Rev. Murfre the church grew.  It is worthy of note 
that the records show often every member to be present at the conference and 
on other occasions only one or two absent.  It further states that the 
"absentees were reproved and dealt with as should be fit."  The church 
exercised a careful watch over its members and matters of great delicacy were 
dealt with frankly and openly.  A charge was brought against one sister for 
"deviation in her statements" about another sister. 

  There followed a long period of progress, and several changes of ministers. 
The pastor's salary had been raised from twenty dollars, the original sum, to 
thirty and finally to forty dollars a year. 

  There was an endeavor to begin a Sunday School in 1833, but it was not 
successful until about 1855 or 1860, of which Wiley Council was superintendent, 
and T. W. Council secretary.  Between the years of 1861-65 there is no record, 
owing to the great civil strife, the War Between the States, during which time 
the churches suffered with the rest of our Southland. 

  Rev. Putnam Owen, who had been pastor since 1854, again resumed his duties 
and ministered to his people until his death in 1877, a period of twenty-two 
years of faithful service. 

  The church continued to go forward, and missionary, denominational and 
benevolent objects were supported.  The first mention of a protracted meeting 
was made in 1876, the evangelist not named, but fifty souls were gathered into 
the Kingdom and baptized at Jenkins Mill Pond.  Shortly after, the Rev. Owens 
died. 

  In 1880 W.F. Holland, clerk, asked for a letter of dismission for fifteen 
members of Beaver Dam Church for the purpose of organizing a church at Holland's 
Corner, Nansemond county.  Thus another church grew out of Beaver Dam. 

  A burying ground was offered to the church by W.T. Daughtrey, the same 
year, and purchased from him for five dollars. 

  J.E. Hutson held a "mighty revival" in 1881 and returned several successive 
years for the same purpose. 

  In 1906 this church withdrew from the Portsmouth Association for the purpose 
of forming a new association.  We read: "The Blackwater Association held its 
first annual session with Beaver Dam Church beginning Tuesday, September 17, 
1907."  A.L. Gardner was elected first moderator, and Dr. Gavin Rawls, its 
first clerk. 

  In 1915 the church was remodeled, class rooms added and a new library room. 
In the World War of 1914, the following members entered the service: Luther 
C. Scott, Richard Eley, William Carr, S. Paul Carr, Patrick Fowler, Mills E. 
Turner, Thomas A. Lankford, Joel A. Lankford, Robert L. Bradshaw, Livey 
Johnson and Claude Howell; Luther Scott was wounded in the battle of the 
Argonne and died in the hospital in 1918.  His body was brought back and 
buried with military honors in the cemetery at Beaver Dam Church. 

  The church suffered a great loss in the death of Dr. Gavin Rawls in 1922. 
He had been the clerk of the church for several decades and Bible class 
teacher.  He often supplied in the absence of the pastor and was one of their 
most treasured members. 

  The names of the ministers who have served this church through the century 
are: Revs. Simon Murfre, Jack K. Daughtrey, Edward Howell, Putnam Owens, 
Samuel Saunders, J.D. Harte, J.L. McCutcheon, G.S. Kennard, A.D. Hunter, 
J.P. Essex, John K. Gorde, Ray Staples, W. Thornburn Clark, G.C. Duncan and 
G.R. Pankey.  Rev. W.P. Denson is at present serving this church, which has 
just rounded out its one hundred years of untold service to its community. 

  Beaver Dam Church is located between Carrsville and Franklin, on the 
concrete highway, and in one of the most prosperous, and progressive sections 
of Isle of Wight County. 


Sect. 2, p. 5, col. 3-5  

WHITEHEAD GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Whitehead's Grove Baptist Church 

  On January 29, 1843, Rev. Putnam Owen, Samuel Holmes and Ruben Jones, 
constituting a Presbytery, assembled in "Wills Old Chapel," near Scott's 
factory, formerly used as a house of worship by the Christian denomination, 
and organized a church, which they called Bethesda Baptist Church.  Rev. 
William O. Bailey, of Millfield Church, but who was then living in Smithfield, 
was the first pastor; and the members, ten in all were formerly of the 
Smithfield and Mill Swamp Churches. 

  In about two years after the organization a building was erected on the land 
of Joel Brock, afterwards the property of his grandson, Dr. D. C. Broch, near 
Long View, but the progress of the church was slow.  After the resignation of 
Rev. Bailey in 1845, they were without a minister for two years, until Rev. 
Isaac V. Luke came to minister to them, and served twentyone years.  Quite a 
number of colored members were received into the church up to the War Between 
the States. 

  During the period from 1860-1866, there are no church records.  Shortly after 
the latter date the membership had grown so small that a proposition was made 
to disband, but was vigorously opposed by J.J. Crumpler. 

  Then it was that they decided to repair the church or re-build it.  To defray 
the expense of such, it was necessary to plan some especial occasion.  Dr. 
A.E. Owens was invited to lecture and a "feast" was held.  Mrs. Charles D. 
Jordan, Mrs. Edward Harrison and Mrs. Robert White, who were not of that 
church, so ably assisted that a large sum of money was raised. 

  In the fall of 1875, Rev. Joseph Deans, who was pastor of the Smithfield 
Baptist Church, and who also served Bacon's Castle and Dr. Jordan's School 
House (Central Hill) as an appointee of the State Mission Board, began 
preaching, once a month, for the struggling little church, and new life was 
infused.  Plans were now made for a new church building.  An effort was made 
to secure land at what is now Wills' Corner, but they were unable to do so.
Finally Mr. Jack Whitehead, a nonmember of that church, very generously 
offered to give as much land as was needed from his property, and the church 
was erected on the main road, between Benn's Church and Chuckatuck, and called 
Whitehead's Grove Baptist Church, in honor of the donor of the church lot. On 
November 18, 1877, it was dedicated.  Ten years later it was enlarged and 
improved. 

  In 1890, the church sustained a great loss in the death of J. Robert Broch, 
who with his father, Joel Broch, had been so prominent in church affairs. 

  Again in 1902, another beloved member passed away. Mr. Crittenden C. 
Channell, who had been the recognized leader for thirty-three years, serving 
as clerk, deacon, treasurer and superintendent of Sunday School.  So much was 
he loved and respected by his brethren that a tablet to his memory was placed 
in the church.

  In February, 1903, their beloved pastor, Rev. Joseph Dean, died at his home 
in Windsor, after having served this church for twenty-seven years. 

  In 1910, the church was again remodeled and improved, and still more was 
done to add to its comfort and attractiveness a few years later.  In the mean 
while, it had grown in strength and membership and had increased its 
contributions to all church causes. 

  The pastors who have served this church are: Revs. W.O. Bailey, Isaac W. 
Luke, Reuben R. Owens, J.R. Watkins, J.C. Stephenson, J.T. Bowden, Dr. J.L. 
Lawless, J.W. Rawls, George W. Cox, George W. Savage and Thomas W. Page, the 
present pastor.  Mr. Lee J. Crumpler, has been clerk for thirty-six years. 

  The deacons are: Lee J. Crumpler, S. Lloyd Torne, [sic; Horne] J. Waverly 
Horne, C.H. Lawrence, A.W. Broch, C.T. Minton, S.P. Butler and D.J. Murphy. 
Treasurer, J. Waverly Horne; trustees, A.W. Broch, Lee J. Crumpler and S.T. 
Butler.


[Sect. 3*] p. 2, col. 2 

Windsor Baptist Church 

  The Windsor Baptist Church was the outgrowth of a union Sunday School held 
in the old Masonic Hall for one year.  The church was organized by Rev. J.P. 
Deans in 1879.  The building was erected on land bought from Mr. Peele and is 
still in use, though it was remodeled in 1916 and 1925.  Two of its charter 
members are still living, Mrs. J.P. Deans and Dr. Franklin Pierce.  These are 
pastors in order: Revs. J.P. Deans, J.T. Bowden, C.P. Ryland, J.L. King, C.M. 
Billings, Dr. O.L. Owens and Rev. J. Sydney Cobb, who began his pastorate in 
1925.  The deacons are: John Powell, J.T. Holland, L.T. Hall, Stephen Roberts 
and W.H. Carson. 


[Sect. 3*] p. 4, cols. 1-2 

BATTERY PARK BAPTIST CHURCH

  On a warm summer day, a representative group of men from Smithfield, 
Whitehead Grove, and Battery Park, assembled under the shade of a beautiful 
spreading elm, near the old Todd house, at Battery Park; and there on 
July 23, 1899, the Battery Park Baptist Church was organized.  It is an 
offspring of the Smithfield Baptist Church, and liberal contributions were 
made to it from time to time by the citizens of that town, members of the 
Baptist church.  A lot was donated by the Battery Park Improvement Co., and 
Barrett Brothers sold them another at a very nominal price and the church 
was begun. 

  On July 30, 1900, during the pastorate of the Rev. Samuel C. Clopton, with 
Rev. Dudley, of Norfolk, presiding, the church was dedicated.  The membership 
was small, being made up of several former members of Whitehead grove, and 
Smithfield Baptist Churches, together with several families then living at 
Battery Park, viz. Bloxom, Lowes, Carters, Pierces, Hundleys, etc. 

  The church is just ready to celebrate its thirtieth birthday but is too 
young as yet to have a great deal of history to record. 

  The pastors who have served this church are: Revs. S.E Clopton, Dr. T.S. 
Dunnaway, Dr. J.H.T. Lawless, (under Dr. Lawless the parsonage was built and 
the church joined with Whitehead's Grove) J.W. Rawls, Geo. W. Cox, A.W.H 
Jones, George W. Sawyer and L.F. Paulette.  During the latter's ministery it 
is again united with Smithfield Baptist Church.  The clerk and Supt. of Sunday 
School, J.F. Barlow, Trustees, J.R. Pierce, I. Hundley and O.A. Bloxom.  The 
Deacons are: J.R. Pierce, O.A. Bloxom, T.A Winder, J.W. Scott, J.F. Barlow and 
Robert Whitley.


[Sect. 3*] p. 4, col. 1 

Smithfield Methodist Church 

  At the clerk's office, in this county, is the quaint rambling deed to land 
on which the first Methodist Church in Smithfield stood.  It is dated the 3rd 
day of August, 1812, between Benjamin and Mary Drew and George Benn, Andrew 
Moody, Isaac Velines, Micajah Bidgood, Samuel P. Jordan and Matthias Jordan, 
trustees, "for and in consideration of six shillings apiece" to Benjamin Drew 
and his wife.  This was the Methodist Prostestant Church, located on Mason 
street and now owned and occupied by the colored Methodist Church. 

  From another record we learn, that the first Methodist Church in Smithfield 
was organized in 1819, with the Rev. Thacker Mead as its first pastor.  This 
must have been the Methodist Episcopal Church, located where the present 
church now stands.  Certain it is, that these two churches existed here until 
some time after the War Between the States, when the congregation of the 
former dwindled away and the property was sold.  One of the oldest residents 
of the town, now living, distinctly remembers attending services at these 
churches.  On one of these occasions the minister having preached an hour and 
ten minutes, which did not include the hymns and lengthy prayer, a visiting 
brother arose and stated that he would add a few remarks to the sermon and the 
congregation sat through another sixty minutes.  The Rev. M.F. Langhorne 
proceeded to "raise the tune" to the hymn, "Let Us Walk In The Light."  He 
sang unassisted through the first stanza and his daughter timidly joined him 
during the second; but by that time the congregation had familiarized 
themselves with the music, and it ended with a goodly chorus. 

  The Methodist Prostestant Church was purchased by the colored Methodists in 
1868.  The present church is a handsome structure on Mason street, cannot find 
out when erected.  The present pastor is the Rev. T.McN. Simpson, who sorted 
the church more than forty years ago, and was returned in 1928. 

  The stewards are: E.H. Williams, J.P. Cox, J.W. Holloway, K.D. Sykes, D.J. 
Mood, P.D. Gwaltney, III, D.W. Chapman, J.L. Underwood, L.W. Hearn, R.A. Cox, 
J.E. Chapman, A.A. Coleman, T.L. Dashields, F.R. Berryman, T.B Wright. 


Colosse Baptist Church 

  Colosse Baptist Church was founded in 1871 by Rev. John R. Watkins, who was 
its first pastor.  Like so many churches in the county, the records are 
incomplete, but it appears that it was dedicated in 1872.  The land on which 
it was built, was given by Mr. James Cones and Mr. B.W. Spivey was its first 
clerk. Rev. J.R. Watkins served as pastor for about twelve years.  A list of 
others who have served in this capacity are: Revs. W.L. Richards, C.W. Duke, 
D.D., Duncan McLeod, J.T. Bowden, L.R. Christie, D.D., C.P. Ryland, J.L. King, 
C.M. Billings, A.W.H. Jones and the present pastor, J. Sydney Cobb. 

  The original building was burned in 1908 and the house was rebuilt of brick, 
on the same site.  The first deacons were: Thomas S. White, Z.A. Spivey and 
Spencer Carr.  The present deacons are: J.W. Babb, J.E. Avis, W.H. Johnson, 
M.D. Bowden, J.H. Babb and J. Frank Lawrence.


[Sect. 3*] p. 4, cols. 2-5 

The Quaker Church 

  There was strong opposition to all non-conformists by the zealous churchmen 
in the early days of our country, and the Quakers came in for their full share 
of proscription and persecution.  In Hennings Statute Book I, we find them 
described as an "unreasonable and turbulant people, who, contrary to the laws, 
daily gathered assemblies and congregations of people, teaching and publishing 
lies, miracles, false versions, prophecies and doctrines tending to destroy 
religious laws, communities and all the bonds of civil society, etc." 
Captains of the vessels were forbidden to bring a quaker into the colony under 
a penalty of one hundred pounds sterling.  They were prisoned without bail 
until they left the country not to return again. 

  The opposition to them seemed to be not so great in this county, and the 
officers were not harsh in carrying out the laws against them, although some 
were fined.  In 1699, their meeting houses were regularly licensed.  They 
erected a large meeting house in what is known "Levy Neck", and had a 
considerable following.  A few graves may still be found in what was once, 
the old Quaker burying ground.  All trace of the building has been gone for 
many years. 


[Sect. 3*] p. 7, cols. 3-4 

PRESBYTERIAN 

  There are two churches of the Presbyterian faith organized and built in this 
county, within the last five years. 

  Bethany Presbyterian Church in Zuni, a large beautiful brick structure.  It 
is the center of social life, contains an excellent library and is growing 
rapidly in number.  The Rev. Fisher is the pastor. 

  Another church near Boaz, was opened for services in the fall of 1928. 

  These churches were built by the zealous activity of the Rev. S.K. Emurian, 
missionary pastor of the Presbyterian Church.

  The writer regrets that fuller information did not reach her in time for 
insertion in this article.  One would like to mention those whose money and 
influence have made these houses of worship possible.  In writing this sketch, 
it has necessarily lived in the past for a while.  And has pored over dusty 
records with the names of those long since entered into eternal rest, and 
recognizes on newer pages the names of friends and acquaintances who are 
still engaged in His service.  Who can estimate the value of these altars to 
God in the lives and character of those who now live and those who will live. 

"But when the Sabbath gatherings press, 
 Like armies from the wilderness, 
'Tis then the dire old words afford. 
  The sanctuary of the Lord: 
The Holy Spirit breathes around 
  That finest glade is sacred ground, 
No temple built with hands could vie, 
  In glory with its majesty. 
The trees like living columns rise, 
  Whose taps sustain the bending skies; 
And o'er those earnest worshippers, 
  God's love, like holy reef is spread, 
  And every leaf the zephyr stirs. 
  Some heavenly promise; seems to shed. 

With the words of the psalmist I close this sketch. 
 "Bless the Lord, Oh, my Soul and forget not all his benefits." 
      Eliza Timberlake Davis, 
      Mrs. Charles E. Davis. 


[Sect. 3*] p. 8, cols. 1-4 

SMITHFIELD BAPTIST CHURCH

  The Smithfield Baptist Church was organized October 31, 1830.  On October 3, 
1830, the following applied for and received letters of dismission from the 
Mill Swamp Baptist Church for the purpose of forming a Baptist Church in 
Smithfield: Jas. C. Jordan, Charles Wrenn, John R. Pollard, Thomas Gray, James 
Cofer, Mrs. Selah F. Jordan, Priscilla S. Day, Adelaide T. Jordan, Mary 
Pollard and Martha Goodson. 

  On Friday, October 29, 1830, these, with Rev. Robert T. Daniel and Rev. B.C. 
Howell met in the Methodist Church and discussed the proprietory of organizing 
a Baptist Church in Smithfield.  The discussion was continued on Saturday, 
articles of faith and rules of decorum were adopted and on Sunday morning, 
October 31, 1830, in the Methodist Church, the Smithfield Baptist Church was 
constituted under the supervision of the above named ministers. 

  The original location of the church was where the colored Baptist Church now 
stands.  The early career was a very checkered one, being largely a struggle 
for existence.  But a few faithful members held the work together and kept it 
going.  The first Sunday School was organized in 1858. 

  In 1873 the Presbyterian Church, situated on the present location, was 
purchased.  In 1879 this building was enlarged and greatly improved, and from 
that date the church has made steady progress through the years.  In 1889 the 
present pastor's home on Church street was purchased.  This building was 
afterwards enlarged and improved. 

  On October 26, 1902 the church resolved to erect a new building on the same 
site.  On April 6, 1903 the work of tearing down the old building was begun. 
On May 19, 1903 the corner stone of the new edifice was laid with imposing 
ceremonies, and on March 27, 1904 the new building was dedicated with 
impressive services.  We note from the records that the following brethren 
participated in the dedicatory services, Rev. E.C. Dargan, D.D., Rev. R.H. 
Pitt, D.D., Rev. S.C. Clopton, D.D., Pastor, Rev. Theo. J. Bowden, and Rev. 
W.T. Green of the Methodist Church. 

  The committee in charge of the new building was composed of the following: 
P.D. Gwaltney, S.C. Clopton, J.J. Johnson, J.R. Jordan and J.B. Grimes.  It 
was largely through the generosity and untiring energy and unflagging interest 
of P. D. Gwaltney that the erection of the present beautiful home of worship 
was made possible.  However, we note the membership of the church cooperated 
most heartily in the worthy enterprise and gave it their unstinted support. 

  For several years the church sustained a mission at Battery Park, and on 
July 23, 1899 the Battery Park Baptist Church was formally organized. 

  The church has had a long list of pastors, among them some outstanding men 
in the Baptist denomination.  The first pastor seems to have been Rev. S. 
Sherwood, then Rev. J.M.W. Williams, Rev. Samuel H. Holmes and Rev. Jno. W. 
Ward.  Following these in order are Rev. J.F. Deans, D.D., 1875-1878, Rev. 
J.C. Hiden, D.D., 1880-1883, Rev. W.A. Pearson, 1883-1887, Rev. C.N. 
Donaldson, 1888-1889, Rev. T.B. Shepherd, 1890-1899, Rev. S.C. Clopton, D.D., 
1899-1905.  The church remained without a pastor for more than a year during 
which time it was ably supplied by Rev. N. Richards.  In 1906 Rev. T.S. 
Dunaway, D.D., began his work as pastor and continued until stricken with 
paralysis.  His influence yet abides in the community where he wrought with 
such unselfish devotion.  He was followed by Dr. Preston Blake, D.D., who had 
to resign after a brief pastorate because of declining health.  He was 
succeeded by Rev. G.D. Faulkner, Th.D.  After his resignation the church was 
ably supplied for several months by Rev. A.B. Rudd, D.D.  The present pastor, 
Rev. L.F. Paulette, began his work on March 1st, 1928.  The outstanding 
pastorates in the long history of the church seem to be those of Dr. Clopton 
and Dr. Dunaway. 

  The present board of deacons is composed of the following: A.S. Barrett, 
chairman; C.S. Betts, John I. Cofer, W.H. Sykes, G.M. Jones, Andrew Cofer, 
C.S. Hart, C.D. Haverty, Jas. R. Rowell, Jr., and David A. Rawls.  The 
superintendent of the Sunday School is Fenton T. Jones.  President of the 
W.M.U. work, Mrs. W.H. Sykes, president of Ladies' Aid Society, Mrs. L.C. 
Brock.  The clerk of the church is Jas. R. Rowell, Jr., and the treasurer, 
A.S. Barrett. 

  Through its history the church has worked together in harmony, and has ever 
been loyal to the work of the denomination.  It has been noted at all times 
for the loyalty of its membership to the pastor." 



Additional information: 

Issues of "The Smithfield Times" (1928-2013) are posted at the 
   Library of Virginia's "Virginia Chronicle" Virginia Newpaper Project, 
   linked from their Digital Collections website, Virginia Memory, at: 
   www.virginiamemory.com 
   The text for these articles has been corrected. 

*The sections of this issue appear out-of-sequence: 
   [First] Section (6 p.) given second - p. 1 given as p. 9; 
      - main sect. - includes obit of Gen. C.C. VAUGHAN, Jr., of Franklin, 
        & William Thomas SEWARD, a member of the Smithfield Baptist Church; 
   Second Section (8 p.) given third; p. 1 given as p. 15, p. 8 as p. 22; 
   [Third] Section (8 p.) given first; p. 1 given as p. 1. 

Brief accounts of several family names & civic organizations also appear in 
   this issue, "Devoted To and Published By The Women's Club of Smithfield." 

The Isle of Wight County Historical Society {IWCHS} Grave Site Survey Task 
   Force {GSSTF} transcribed the epitaphs in the many cemeteries in 2004. 
   Beaver Dam Baptist Church report (#42); 
   Colosse Baptist Church (#44); 
   Old St. Luke's (#17); St. Luke's Memorial Park (#18); 
   Old Bay Church (#1): 
   http://www.iwchs.com/Cemetery-Reports.html 

An annotated list of those interred at Beaver Dam Baptist, compiled by the 
   Southampton County Historical Society {SCHS} as an extension of their 
   Southampton County Cemetery Project (updated Apr 2018), is posted at: 
   http://files.usgwarchives.net/va/isleofwight/cemeteries/bvrdam.txt 

A photo of St. Luke's graces the dustjacket of the county history, and several 
   other views are included.  It states that Col. Joseph Bridger's father was 
   Samuel, not Joseph - and did not begin the construction of the Old Brick 
   Church.  Another restoration was begun in 1953. 

It mistakenly claims that Rev. John R. Watkins was the original pastor of 
   Beaver Dam Baptist Church, but he was too young to have been. 
   Watkins established Rendezvous Sunday School in June 1864, and 
   Colosse Baptist Church in 1871.  He died 8 Oct 1875, age 62 years & 7 
   months, and was buried in the Colosse Church cemetery. 
   Jno. R. Watkins appears in the 1870 Census as a farmer, age 55. 
   (Windsor Dist., Isle of Wight Co., VA, p. 309) 

It is careful to note that Colosse Baptist Church is spelled differently 
   from the hamlet where it is located - Collosse. 
   King, Helen Haverty, et al. 
   "Historical Notes on Isle of Wight County, Virginia." 
   (Isle of Wight: Isle of Wight County Board of Supervisors, 1993.) 
   pp. 294-327, 440 


Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by 
File Manager Matt Harris (zoobug64@aol.com). 

file at: 
http://files.usgwarchives.net/va/isleofwight/history/church.txt