Salem Church

In 1840, Francis C. Gaugh, a devout Christian, invited the old circuit riders into his home to preach to his family, friends and neighbors. They decided to build a log church on the ground that Mr. Gaugh donated for it. Rev. Josiah Whitaker with Mr. and Mrs. Francis Gaugh, Mr. and Mrs. Perry Jackson Harrison, and Mr. and Mrs. John Gaugh were charter members. In 1843 when Larkin Price was pastor, Josiah and Susan Gaugh, Mr. and Mrs. Morgan Simpson, and Catherine Evans became members. From this date to 1871, the church families were: Vance, Sheriff, Clark, McGowen, Searcy, Chipman, Diltz, Stewart and Bennett.

In 1875 the log church needed repair; it was replaced by a frame church which was dedicated in 1876. Flege, Brown, Boles, Odor, Franks, Chipman, Harrison, Cook, Dills and Stewart were names of prominent members. The present edifice was built and dedicated in 1918 by Reverend A. P. Jones.

Mr. John M. Flege, renowned teacher and layman, served longer as superintendent of the church school than any other person, with over 50 years in succession, with the exception of a few years at Greendale State Institution where he and his wife taught and supervised. At this time Mr. Roy Childers was superintendent with Mr. Will Lamn as assistant and teacher. Mr. Flege's daughter, Mrs. Sally F. Odor was superintendent several years before John Sullivan who held it until his death in 1960.

Many missionaries have gone from this church as well as many great pastors. A few are Reverend Wiliam and John Davis and Reverencd Warren Jackson now serving in Africa and Reverend William Rudd, Brazil.

Published by the Sesqui-Centennial Committee 1970
150th Year of Grant County, Kentucky.

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