Ebenezer Baptist Church Minutes

Part One
February 19, 1842 - 1873



Ebenezer Baptist Church Minutes

Part One

February 19, 1842 - 1873

 

J. S. Ellis was Church Clerk for the years 1877-1878.  Another item:  February term 1848. – After preaching by Bro. J.E. Brunson.  The name “B.J. Ellis” is also written.

 

The minutes open with the Covenant dated February 19, 1842, written out which lists the originial members:  P.L. Bunyard, J.M. Bunyard, Isham B. Bunyard, Isaac N. Akin, William J. Carter, James Moseley, Nancy Akin, Sophia Bunyard, Leleta Bunyard, Rebecca Carter, and Margaret L. Carter.

 

The Church organized and declared to be a regular gospel church of the Baptist order by Ambrose Yarbrough.

 

Then followed the Abstract Articles of Faith and the Articles of Decorum. 

 

Brother Ambrose Yarbrough acted as a Moderator and Brother B.F. Willis as Clerk Pro-tem.  Later, Brother E.L. Carter was chosen as Church Clerk.

 

First sermon by H.P. Brunson and P.L. Bunyard, who was elected to serve as first moderator.

 

April Term 1842  (April 16, 1842)

Voted to carry letters to Elders Milburn Yarbrough, Ryan, and Sutts.  (Note:  These were members of Salem Baptist Church)

 

May Term  (May 14, 1842)

Voted for Brother P.L. Brunson and W.J. Carter to attend Salem Baptist Church.  Some talk of building a new church house.

 

June Term (June 18, 1842)

Brother P.L. Bunyard reported that he had been ordained by the Salem Church.  Some difficulty between P.L. Bunyard and L. (Lesso?) B. Eves was the cause of postponing ordination of Brother Bunyard.

 

July 1842  (July 13, 1842)

Brother P.L. Bunyard introduced certificate in Brother Eves’ handwriting that difficulty between the two parties had been resolved.  W. J.  Carter ordained as deacon.  (Note: IT is assumed that the ordination of Brother P.L. Bunyard was also for deacon.)

 

July 16, 1842

The Church held services.  A committee of five was appointed to select a place to build a church house.  The Church received by experience Isaac R. Bunyard, William L. Anderson and Lannet Tedder, and Charles H. Perry.

 

 

Augsust Term 1842  (August 20, 1842)

Recounted with deep regret the death of dearly beloved Brother and Supply P.L. Bunyard who has winged this flight to the chimes of immortal glory.  Brother H.T. (P.) Bunyard agreed to replace Brother P.L. Bunyard as supply.  The Church decided not to join any association for the year.

 

September Term 1842  (September 18, 1842)

Brother James Mosley granted letter of dismission.

 

October Term 1842 (October 15, 1842)

Received Sister Nariah McElroy by letter from the Mony Church, Sister Nancy Wilson by letter from Salem Church, and Sister Elizabeth Tucker by letter from the Calvary Church.

 

November Term  (November 17, 1842)

Mentions H.P.B. Brunson (three names).  Brother E. (Endsnus) L. Carter requested release from duties of Church Clerk as he expected to move away for at least a year. – Granted.  Brother William Johnson appointed.

 

December Term 1842  (December 19, 1842)

Brother A. Yarbrough agreed to serve (pastor) of the Church for the year 1843.

 

January Term 1843  (January 14, 1843)

Received John Hughes and Demaris, his wife.  Mentions Sister Lithee (?) Wiggins.

 

February Term 1843  ( February 18, 1843)

Received Brother Edwin Perry by experience.

 

June Term 1843  (June 17, 1843)

Voted to join the Choctaw Baptist Association.

 

July Term 1843  (July 15, 1843)

Received by experience Brother Watis Puckett and his wife, Elizabeth Puckett

 

August Term 1843  (August 14, 1843)

Received letter from Oakey Valley Church by her delegate, J.B. Yarbrough and J.P. (R?) McLemore?…possibly Josiah McLemore through the persons of W.J. Carter and J.N. Bunyard.  (Note:  It is known that Richard McLemore was a member of Oakey Valley Church)

 

September Term 1843  (September 16, 1843)

Brother J.P. Akin appointed deacon.  Brother E. Perry stated he understood he had hurt some of the brethren’s feelings by advancing a doctrine contrary to the rules of the Church.  The Church investigated – found him unsound in the faith, and he was excluded from the fellowship.  Perry J.B. Bunyard and J. Tedder appointed delegates to Oakey Valley Church.  (Note:  The Oakey Valley Church is located at Willow Ridge Apartments on Highway 19E and is the forerunner of the present First Baptist Church in Meridian.)

 

October 14, 1843; November 19, 1843; December 1843; January 1844  ---No Conferences.

 

February Term 1844 

Divine services by Elder Wolf and Brunson.  Brother Hughes stated that Brother William Anderson requested him to say to the Church that he was drunk yesterday and that he wished the Church to deal with him as she in her wisdom saw proper.  Brother Hughes speaking for Brother Anderson.  Appointed a committee to wait on Brother Anderson and cite him to the next meeting.  Brother E.L. Carter appointed Church Clerk.

 

March 1844

Brother Anderson made satisfactory statement to the Church.

 

April 1844

Received letter by hand from sister church Buckatunna – delegates Brother Franklin Lilly and Benjamin Carter, requesting help to settle difficulty among them (church members).  Committee of W.J. Carter, J.M. Bunyard, and Charles M. Perry appointed.  Letter of dismission granted E.L. Carter and his wife.

 

May 1844      No Conference

 

September 1844

Delegates to association W.J. Anderson and W.J. Carter.  Brother Hughes (John Hughes) alternate.

 

October 1844

Brother H.P. Brunson and wife Elizabeth received by letter.  Association dues of $1.50 were paid.  On October 30, 1844, wrote letter requesting dismissal from Choctaw Association,  due to inconvenience of attending

 

November 1844

Brother Charles M. Perry granted letter of dismission.

 

December 1844

Correspondence from Buckatunna Church given by J. Lilly and L. Dunam.  Correspondence to Oakey Valley by J.N. Akin, J.M. Bunyard, and H. Hughes.

 

January 1845  No Conference

 

February 1845

Brother E.L. Carter from Long Creek Church in Clarke County presented letter requesting correspondence from the Church.  Dropped correspondence with Oakey Valley Church due to their non-attendance at Ebenezer.

March 1845

A McLemore, T.A. Fountain, and E.L. Carter gave correspondence from Long Creek Church.

 

April 1845  No Conference

 

May 1845

Received E.L. Carter and wife, M.E.

 

June 1845

J. M. Van mentioned from Buckatunna and from Long Creek, Charles McLemore, John J. Johnston, and Elisha Mosley.

 

July 1845

Sister Sophia Bunyard granted letter of dismission.

 

August 1845

Joham? B. Bunyard to Long Creek.  Discussion on joining Liberty Baptist Association.

 

September 1845

Thomas H. Carter delegate from Long Creek.

 

October 1845     No Conference

 

November 1845

Sister Sarah Ethridge presented letter from Popular Spring Church, Wilcox County, Alabama, and was received.  Sister Telither Wiggins granted letter of dismission.  William J. Anderson appointed delegate to Long Creek.

 

December 1845

Brother James M. Vaughn delegate from Buckatunna.  Sister Jane Hayman received by letter from Salem.

 

January 1846

There were some discussion on an unfavorable report of people hunting wild hogs.  Apparently some felt that Brother Richie was getting on other people’s property.  The matter was settled.  Brother H.P. Brunson and wife granted letter of dismission.

 

February 1846

Services by Elder M. Wolf.  Brother Puckett and Hughes delegates to Buckatunna.

 

March 1846   No Conference

 

April 1846

Brother Jackson Richie stated he had engaged in a fight and was sorry – forgiven.

 

May 1846 and June 1846     No Conference

 

July 1846

Brother James M. Bunyard stated he had difficulty with Brother H.P. Brunson and had said more than he should have.  The matter was worked out.

 

August 1846

Brother W.J. Carter stated that Brother H.P. Brunson told him that Brother J.M. Bunyard had told a lie and he could prove it.  Brother Bunyard denied the charge and demanded proof.  Brother Brunson cited to appear at next meeting.

 

September 1846

Brother James Bunyard and Delilah, his wife, presented letter of dismission from Concord Church in Dallas County, Alabama – accepted.  Charge of lying between Brother Bunyard and Brother Brunson was worked out.

 

October 1846   No Conference

 

November 1846

Brother E.L. Carter  and wife, Margaret L., granted letter of dismission.

 

December 1846 ; January 1847; February 1847   No Conference

 

March 1847

Brother E.L. Carter related the horse swapping between him and Brother Puckett.  Brother Goodwin had reported the same to the Church.  Brother J.M. Bunyard stated he had been at “Willises” and he had a little hand in a fuss and also drank too much spirits.  All explained to the Church’s satisfaction.  Brother Akin had stated also that he had drunk more spirits than becomes a Baptist.  Then Brother Anderson came forward, stating he had been with Brother Akin and participated – As stated above, all was worked out with the Church’s forgiveness.

 

April 1847   No Conference

 

May 1847

Received Brother  Mat? Wolf and wife Lydia by letter.

 

June 1847; July 1847   No Conference

 

August 1847

Received Sister Lucrecia Hayman by letter.

 

September 1847

Voted to let the Church Articles of Faith stand as they were.

 

October 1847

Elder B.F. Willis selected as Moderator and W. Puckett as Church Clerk

November 1847

Voted to observe the 25th of November as requested by the Governor in thanksgiving and praise to Almighty God for his blessings.

 

December 1847     No Conference

 

January 1848

Elder M. Wolf and wife Lydia granted letter of dismission.

 

February, March, April, May, and June 1848    No Conference

 

July 1848

Brother Bolnet (Balnet?) presented letter from New Hope Church, requesting assistance in among them (New Hope members).  Committee formed.

 

August 1848     No Conference

 

September 1848

Sister Mary M. James presented letter of dismission from Harmony Church – was received.

 

October 1848   No Conference

 

November 1848

Elder A. Yarbrough, Moderator and Watis Puckett, Church Clerk.  Brother C.M. Perry granted letter of dismission.

 

December 1848   No Conference

 

January 1849

Sister Caroline Hayman presented letter of dismission from Salem Church and was accepted by the Church.

 

February 1849

Sister Mary M. Mathis granted letter of dismission.

 

March, April, and May 1849  No Conference

 

June 10, 1849

Received by experience Sister Elizabeth Carter, Sister Elizabeth Bunyard.  Brother James Gilbert was received by letter, and Brother A. Yarbrough requested release from the duties of Moderator – was granted.

 

July 1849    No Conference

 

 

August  1849

James Bunyard, W.J. Anderson, Watis Puckett, and W.J. Carter (alternate) delegates to association (association not named.)

 

September 1849   No Conference

 

October 1849

Held protracted meeting.  Received Elmond Tucker by experience; also Sister Jane Akins by better on October 14, 1849.  Senah Hughes, daughter of Brother John Hughes received by experience on October 15, 1849; received Thomas J. Bunyard, son of James N. Bunyard, by experience.

 

November 1849  No Conference

 

December 1849

Elder M. Wolf voted to be Church Moderator.  If Church could not get him, Elder T.H. Bankston would be selected.

 

January 1850

Brother Watis Puckett and wife Eliza granted letter of dismission.  W.J. Carter was selected as Church Clerk.

 

February 1850   No Conference

 

March 1850

Received Brother Simkin Smith, John J. Bunyard and Sister Charity Smith from Mount Gilead.

 

April 1850

Received Sarah Hughes by experience.  Brother Jesse Tedder and Sister Jenett (Janet), his wife, granted letter of dismission.

 

May 1850  No Conference

 

June 1850

Received Elder Benjamin F. Willis and wife Martha by letter from Buckatunna, Clarke County, MS.  Appointed committee of B.F. Willis, John Hughes, J.G. Gilbert, S. Smith, and J.N. Akin to make out the size of a new house (church house?).  The committee retired and then returned, reporting that building (house) should be 30 square feet.  The Church then went into the business of drawing bill of lumber and nails, etc.

 

July 1850

Report on lumber and nails given.  This is report: 832 feet of inch plank, 30 planks 12 feet long, and 1 ¼ inch thick and 1 foot wide, 48 pieces of 12 feet long, 4 inches wide and 1 inch thick; and 460 feet rough edge marking; 1474 feet rough edge plank; and 460 feet rough edge; 5 lbs. double tens, 5 lbs. 8; and 30 lbs. of fours.

August and September 1850   No Conference

 

October 1850

Sermon of Dedication by Brother Willis (?dedication of new church… record does not say).  Received John Hays, Brother David Pew (Pugh?) and Margaret Pew, his wife, by letter.  Received Julian Richey by experience.  Thomas Bakston (Bankston), Moderator.

 

November 1850   No Conference

 

September 1850

A letter of dismission granted Brother Benjamin F. Willis and wife.  Elder Thomas H. Bankston,  Pastor.  Donations to the Church for Pastor’s use (subscribers names):

Wiilliam J. Anderson     $1.00              Simkin Smith                $1.50

A. M. Johnston              $1.00              John Hughes                 $1.00

S. Molpus                        .25               James Bunayrd              $2.00

J. M. Fortner                $1.00               James G. Gilbert           $1.00

John Hayes                   $2.00               James H. Bunyard        $2.00

Gruice? W. Akin          $1.00               John J. Bunyard            $1.00

William J. Carter           $1.00               C. Y. Boughham           $1.00

 

January through March 1851    No Conference

 

April 1851

Brother James M. Vann received by letter from Buckatunna Church

 

May 1851    No Conference

 

June 1851

Sister Jerasha Maulpers (Molpus) received on letter from Bethlehem Church, Lauderdale County, MS.

 

July 1851     No Conference

 

August 1851

William J. Carter elected as Church Clerk.

 

September 1851     No Conference

 

October 1851

William Richey                          William Honeycutt

Gibbs Nickles                                       Benjamin Ethridge

Joseph Richey                                      Larkin F. Bunyard

Jesse Randall                                        Pinckney Matthews

Josiah Ethridge                         Katharine Richey

Elizabeth Irby                                       Harriett Randall

Mary Honeycutt                                   Permelia Nickles

Frances Vann                                       Martha E. Bunyard

Frances J. Carter                                  Elizabeth Ethridge

Priscilla Matthews

Colored Sister Rachel, belonging to Sister Ethridge.  Simkin Smith was elected Church Clerk.  Brother W.J. Carter, his wife Rebecca, daughters; Frances and Elizabeth granted letters of dismission.

 

(Note:  Reading these minutes, it sometimes appears that the “J” in William J. Carter appears to be “William P. Carter”, well known Baptist minister of Salem Baptist Church during this time period – and each had a wife named Rebecca.  Please note that it has been ascertained that it is William J. Carter and not William P. Carter.)

 

November 1851     No Conference

 

December 1851

The following donations given to Church:

James Bunyard $1.00                           Simkin Smith                $1.00

James M. Bunyard        $1.00                           John Hughes                 $1.00

Josiah Ethridge $1.00                           Pinckney Matthews      $1.00

John J. Bunyard            $1.00                           William _________      $1.00

Jesse Randall                    .50                           William J. Anderson      $1.00

James G. Gilbert           $1.00                           John Hays                    $2.00

 

January 1852

Isham B. Bunyard, his wife Nancy Bunyard, granted letter of dismission.  Sister Martha E. Bunyard also granted letter of dismission.

 

February and March 1852     No Conference

 

April 1852

Received Sister Elkanah and David Smith, Sister Sarah Smith and Mary Clark from Mt. Gilead Church.

 

May 1852

Brother Jesse Randall and wife Harriet granted letter of dismission.

 

June 1852

Brother Simkin Smith, Moderator. Brother William J. Anderson, Church Clerk.

 

July 1852

Liberty Baptist Association meeting to be held at Clear Creek Church in Choctaw County, Alabama.  Delegates selected to attend conference at Oakey Valley Church in August 1852.

 

August and September 1852    No Conference

 

October 1852

Received the following by experience:

James Anderson                                   Nancy E. Hughes

Mary Molpus                                       Helrina Selborn

Mauda Anderson                                  Katharine Molpus

Nina? Akins                                         Elizabeth Ethridge

Sarah Matthews                                   Urbanna (Alabama) Nickles

 

Received by Letter:

William Bunyard                                   Frances Bunyard

Mildred Godwin                                   Larricy Godwin

Roseannah Randall

 

November 1852

Caroline Wilson excluded for uniting with Methodist Church.  Also, the Church called in Mary Matthews to discuss her joining the Methodist Church.  Brother Gibbs Nickles and wife Permelia granted letter of dismission.

 

December 1852; January 1853; and February 1853    No Conference

 

March 1853

Brother Hughes and others reported on Brother Tucker’s dissipation.  Brother Tucker was excluded for drinking the spirits.  Mary Matthews excluded for joining Methodist Church.  Sister Frances Bunyard was forgiven for swearing and snapping a gun at her son-in-law’s house; stated she did not swear and snapped gun to protect herself and her family.  Brother Larricy Godwin requested his name be erased from the Church rolls- granted; was excluded.

 

April and May 1853    No Conference

 

June 1863

Church chose William V. White of Mount Gilead Church as moderator.

 

July 1853

Church still belonged to Liberty Baptist Association.

 

August 1853

William V. White from Mount Gilead, Moderator.  Sister McElroy granted letter of dismission.  Church paid lumber bill submitted by C.E. Rushing, administrator of estate of William McLemore, deceased.

 

November 1853

Brother F. or T.B. Townsend asked to serve as Moderator.  Received by experience:

B.F. Lilly                                              Lewis Lilly

A.M. Johnston                                      Allen Honeycutt

Charley Gibson                         Walter Bunyard

William Butler                           Martha Rainer

Nancy Honeycutt                                  Judy Gibson

Jane Smith                                            Elmira Richey

Huloah? Rainer

 

By Letter:

Thomas Rainer and wife Elizabeth

James Walker

Eliza Smith and his wife Mary

Wesley Gibson and his wife Caroline

 

December 1853

Brother T.B. Townsend offers prayer.

 

January 1854    No Conference

 

February 1854

Brother Thomas B. Townsend and wife Laura L. Townsend presented letter of dismission from Union Church in Clarke County, MS.  During this period there were a number of confessions of drinking too much intoxicating liquors.

 

March 1854

A complaint on Sister Silborn declared false and was dismissed.  Brother James Walker granted letter of dismission.

 

April 1854

Josiah Ethridge was elected Church Clerk.

 

May 1854

Brother Townsend and John Hughes was to see Brother Pew about Church attendance.

 

June 1854    No Conference

 

July 1854

Delegates to Association:  T.B. Townsend, T.G. Rainer, and Wesley Gibson

 

August 1854    No Conference

 

September 1854

Received by experience:

Elisha Ingram                                        J. P. Irby

M.H.? Brunson                         Richard Molpus

James M. Smith                                    Melton Akins

John Butler                                           Hannah M. Bunyard

Eliza Rainer                                          Sara Rainer

Sarah Ingram                                        Emily Brunson

Harriett Bunyard

 

By Letter:  Mary B. Clark

 

October 1854     No Conference

 

November 1854

Letter of dismission granted L.F. Bunyard and wife Harriett R.

 

December 1854

Some discussion here on Brother and Sister Nicholas (no first name possibly “Nichols” mentioned previously.  Sister Margaret Pugh excluded for unchristian conduct.

 

January 1855

Brother Hughes and Brother Townsend on committee to see Brother & Sister Tucker.  There were several committees appointed to see Sister Tucker, the matter being laid over and new committee appointed.  Mentions a M.O. Brunson.

 

February and March 1855   No Conference

 

April 1855

Received John A. Smith and Sister Malina S. Smith from Mount Gilead.  Brother William Honeycutt and wife Mary granted letter of dismission.

 

May 1855

There seems to have developed a difficulty between Mr. Molpus and Brother M.O. Bunyard.  Committee of Brother J.R. Bunyard, T.B. Townsend, and John Hughes to labor with the two parties.  Brother William Bunyard and wife (no name), Brother W.S. Bunyard and Sister Mildred A. Godwin granted letters of dismission.

 

June 1855

Committee report on Molpus/Bunyard reporting they still found Brother Molpus obstinate.  He was excluded.

 

July 1855

Delegates to Liberty Conference:  T.B. Townsend, J.M. Vain and T.G. Rainer

 

August 1855

Received by letter Joseph Vaughn and wife Lucy from Concord Church.  (Note:  The record spoke of Concord Church in Dallas County, Al.)  A difficulty:  It was found that there was a hurt existing between Brother Brunson and Sister Jerusha Molpus, and a committee of Brother Vann, T.G. Rainer assigned to work out reconciliation.  Brother Rainer reported that Brother Wesley Gibson had requested Church to exclude him.  Case laid over until next meeting.  Brother David Pugh cited for non-attendance.

 

 

September 1855

In the case of Brother Brunson and Sister Molpus, Brother Brunson requested and was granted exclusion for him and his wife.  Brother Pugh’s matter laid over.  T.B. Townsend, Moderator.

 

October 1855

Sister Mary Ann Vaughn received by letter from Concord Church.  Brother Ingram reported for disorderly conduct and was excluded.  Sister Jane Smith excluded for unchristian conduct.  Brother John Butler’s case (drinking) laid over until next meeting.

 

November 1855

Received by letter Sister Martha Ethridge

 

By Experience:

Elizabeth Jones                         Sarah Ann Thomas

Sarah J. Richey                         Emily Lilly

Tilletha Ann Richey                               Isaac Bunyard

John George Rainer                              Franklin Butler

John Smith                                            Pittman Bunyard

 

Continued the Pugh case.  James M. Bunyard and wife Hannah M. granted letter of dismission, also granted letter of dismission to Isaac and Pittman Bunyard.

 

December 1855

Received William Stone by experience and J.W. Garrett and wife Sarah Ann by letter.  John Hughes, his wife and daughters Sarah and Nancy granted letter of dismission.  Brother David Pugh was excluded.

 

January 1856

Brother Charley Gibson granted letter of dismission.

 

February 1856

Received Sister Lucinda Eaton from Concord Church.  Brother John Butler excluded for drinking.

 

March 1856

Sister Sarah Smith (Sarah Hughes as was) returned letter of dismissison and was received by the Church.  Brother Isaac W. Akins, Brother Melton Akin, and Sister Jane Lovina and Manerva Akin granted letters of dismission.  Brother John A. Smith cited to next meeting for drinking.  Brother J.P. Irby and Brother J.R. Bunyard to visit him.

 

April 1856

Brother John A. Smith forgiven by Church.

 

May and June 1856   No Conference

 

July 1856

Brother Wesley Gibson restored to membership.  Sister Caroline Broomfield received by experience.  Brother William Honeycutt presented letter of dismission from the Church and was received.  Sister Nancy Broomfield received by letter from the New Prospect Church.

 

August 1856

Brother Walter S. Bunyard returned his letter of dismission and was received.  Brother Joseph Ethridge, wife Martha Ethridge, Sister Sarah Ethridge, colored Sister Rachel belonging to Sister Ethridge, and Brother Benjamin Ethridge granted letter of dismission.

 

September 1856

Brother Davis acted as Moderator for the Church.

 

October 1856

Received Margaret Pringle by experience and Brother William Bunyard, Sister Frances Bunyard, and Mildred Godwin by letter.  Protracted meeting:  Received Brother Davis Broomfield, William Rolen, Perry and Warren Embry, Sister Francis Mooney by experience and Elizabeth Clark and Mary Clark by letter.

 

November 1856

Brother Wesley Gibson forgiven for drinking.  Brother Warren Embry, Wesley Gibson, his wife and daughter, Davis Broomfield and wife Absolam Taylor granted letter of dismission.

 

December 1856   No Conference

 

January 1857

Sister Julia Godwin (Julia Gibson as used to be) returned letter of dismission and was received.

 

February 1857

Brother Wolf, Moderator.  Brother William James excluded for drinking.

 

March 1857

Brother Elkannah Smith, Moderator.  Brother A.M. Johnston forgiven for drinking.

 

April 1857   No Conference

 

May 1857

Brother A. Taylor returned letter of dismission and was received.  Brother T.B. Townsend charged with unchristian conduct; matter laid over.

 

 

 

 

June 1857

Brother T.B. Townsend excluded.  Brother James W. Garrett, wife Sister Sarah A. Garrett, requested letter of dismission.  Letter granted to Sister Garrett.  Brother Garrett’s letter withheld due to a hurt on the part of the Church toward Brother Garrett.

 

July 1857

Brother John Pace received by letter from Mount Gilead.  Brother William Richey excluded.

 

August and September 1857     No Conference

 

October 1857

Preaching by B.F. Willis.  Brother John A. Smith forgiven for drinking.  Brother A.M. Johnston forgiven for a difficulty he experienced.  Brother J.W. Garrett wrote for letter of dismission – not granted.  The hurt of the Church still existed toward him.

 

November 1857

Brother B.F. Willis received from Concord Church by letter.  Brother Jackson Richey cited for non-attendance.  Committee assigned to visit him.

 

December 1857

Received letter by hands of A.A. Carter requesting help from Buskatunna to settle difficulty between members.  Sister Ingram and Sister Caroline Broomfield granted letters of dismission.

 

January 1858    No Conference

 

February 1858

John Hughes and Sister Demaris Hughes returned letters and were received.  Brother J.M. Vann, Sister Sarah A. Thomas and Sister Laura L. Townsend granted letters of dismission.

 

March 1858    No Conference

 

April 1858

Sister Nancy Culpepper and Brother W.S. Bunyard granted letters of dismission.

 

May 1858

Brother John A. Smith denied charge of drinking.  Case dismissed due to lack of evidence.

 

June 1858   No Conference

 

July 1858

Brother James W. Garrett excluded.

 

August 1858

Brother John W. Smith confessed to using profane language.  Committee assigned to labor with him.

 

September 1858

Brother J.W. Smith forgiven.  Sister Jane Hayman and Brother William E. Honeycutt granted letters of dismission.

 

October 1858

Sister Sarah A. Latham received by letter from Mt. Gilead Church.  Sister Harriett R. Smith received by experience.

 

November 1858

Brother James G. Gilbert sent with letter of expulsion to be delivered to John Pace and to secure former letter of dismission.  Brother Pace refused to return letter of dismission.

 

December 1858

Brother John Hughes stated he had been drinking and was forgiven by the Church.  Sister Mary E. Vaughn granted letter of dismission.

 

January 1859

John A. Smith admitted he was guilty of drinking; Church to bear with him.

 

February 1859

D. (David?) Smith, Clerk

 

March 1859

Brother Charlie Gibson requested and received exclusion from the Church.

 

April 1859

Simkin Smith stated he had offended some Church members by his remarks during the February session; that he was sorry – was forgiven by the Church.  Brother T.G. Rainer forgiven for a difficulty  he had engaged in.  Brother J.A. (James) G. Gilbert said he had engaged in a game; was sorry – forgiven by the Church.  Joseph Vaughn and wife Sister Lucy granted letter of dismission.

 

May 1859

Preaching by B.F. Willis.  Brother Simkin Smith hurt toward Brother A.M. Johnston for his course of conduct toward him during the last meeting.  Committee of James Bunyard, T.G. Rainer, John Hughes and William Butler to labor on this problem with both sides.  Elder B.F. Willis granted letter of dismission.

 

June 1859

Brother Smith and Brother Johnston reconciliated

 

 

July 1859

Sent Brother J.R. Bunyard, and T.G. Rainer to Mount Gilead to report expulsion of John Pace.

 

August 1859

Sister Unbanna Lilly granted letter of dismission.

 

September 1859  No Conference.

 

October 1859

Received by experience:

J. T. Lafferty                                         Y.A. Watson

William W. Rushing                              Lewis Hughes

Mary E. Rainer                         Nancy Johnson

Cynthia H. Rainer                                 Amanda M. Smith

Colored Sister Nanda belonging to Brother A.M. Johnston.

 

By Letter:

Nancy Molpus.

 

Brother J.P. Irby case (drinking) laid over until next session.  Brother Perry forgiven for a difficulty.  Sister Emily Williams granted letter of dismission.  Upon request of Bethel Church, Brother Rawlings and Haigwood were appointed to meet with the Bethel Church at their next meeting.    

 

November 1859    No Conference

 

December 1859

Brother J.P. Irby excluded from the Church.

 

January, February, and March 1860   No Conference

 

April 1860

Article 13, Rules of Decorum, erased from record (had to do with keeping the Church fund.)  Brother J.A. Smith stated he was guilty of drinking – forgiven.  Brother Lewis Lilley requested to be excluded for unchristian conduct; matter laid over.  Brother Y.A. Watson excluded  for being in disorder and drunk and using profane language.  Brother J.T. Lafferty also reported in disorder and was excluded.  Some of the young sisters reported to be dancing; committee sent to labor with them and report at next meeting.  Brother James Bunyard and wife Delilah granted letter of dismission; also Sister Sarah C. Knox.

 

May 1860

Brother Lewis Lilly excluded for unchristian conduct.  Brother John W. Smith was excluded for drinking.  The young sisters forgiven for dancing.

 

June 1860

Brother William G. Ellis presented letter of dismission from Bethesda Church, Coosa County, Al; was received.  He was an ordained deacon.

 

July 1860

Delegates to Liberty Baptist Association were:  William G. Ellis, T.G. Rainer and Brother John Hughes.

 

August 1860

Sister Sarah Lilly granted letter of dismission.

 

September 1860

Brother B.F. Lilly and wife Elizabeth granted letter of dismission.

 

October 1860

Received correspondence from Union Church in hands of Thomas Smith and B. Boughans.  Brother A. Taylor granted letter of dismission.

 

November 1860

Brother Brown, Moderator.

 

December 1860

Brother Harrell and Haygwood from Bethel Church; Brother Thomas Smith from Union Church; attended meeting.  Brother George Rainer granted letter of dismission.

 

January 1861    No Conference

 

February 1861

Sister Mary Smith reported dancing; committee to labor with her.

 

March 1861

Received correspondence from Union – Brother John Brunson – Bethel Brother Haygwood and Mt Horeb – M. Stone and Ira Creel.

 

April 1861   No Conference

 

May 1861

Committee reported that Brother Willis can no longer serve.

 

June 1861

Received correspondence by hand; J.W. Ross and Riley Shamburger from Mt. Horeb. ( Note: The Mt. Horeb that was located on Old Highway 19E at entrance of Boy Scout pond).  Sister Mary Smith granted letter of dismission.

 

July through December 1861  No Conference

 

January 1862

Brother William G. Ellis, Moderator.

 

February and March 1862  No Conference

 

March 4, 1862

Brother John Hughes appointed Chairman of Committee for meeting with sister Churches; Brother S. Smith, Secretary.  The committee made some recommendations.

 

April 1862

Sister Pugh granted letter of dismission.  Sister Mary S. Pringle granted letter of dismission.  During this period, there was a lot of discussion regarding Articles of Decorum.

 

May 1862    No Conference

 

June 1862

Sister Mildred Godwin granted letter of dismission.

 

July 1862

Brother J. J. Bunyard granted letter of dismission.

 

August through December 1862   No Conference

 

January through October 1863  No Conference

 

November 1863

Committee of Brother T.G. Rainer, J.R. Bunyard, and John Hughes to inform Brother John Brunson of Church selecting him as Moderator.

 

December 1863

The minutes mention Ira F. Carter and Isaac Williams from Union Church.  The minutes at this point are very brief.

 

January through June 1864   No Conference

 

July 1864

Brother T.G. Rainer, Moderator.

 

August 1864 through April 1865  No Conference

 

May 1865

Sister Mary Butler (Mary Smith as was) presented letter from Antioch Church, Clarke County, Ms., and was received.

 

June through September 1865   No Conference

October 1865

On the 8th of October the Church received Francis Perry, Jr. by experience

On the 9th of October received by letter Sister Margaret Godwin, Elizah (Elizabeth?) Grantham, Elizabeth Smith, Susan Blalock, and Francis Ellis.

On the 10th of October received Sister Mary Butler and Brother George W. Bunyard by experience and Sister Jane Anderson by letter.

On the 11th of October – Brother John Hughes, JR., Sister Katerine Hughes, and Mary E. Bunyard.  Brother J.F. Lafferty restored.

On the 12th of October received Sister Jane Waller, Brothers Marion Butler, S.J. Anderson, C.C. Martin, Sister Higgiah Gibson and colored Sister Alesy by experience.

 

November 1865

Sisters Phereby P. Watley and Susan Blacock granted letters of dismission.

 

December 1865 through April 1866   No Conference

 

May 1866

Brother James G. Gilbert granted letter of dismission.

 

June 1866

Brother C.C. Martin reported for unchristian conduct.  Committee of E. Smith, J.R. Bunyard, and J.A. Smith appointed to labor with him.  Brother T.G. Rainer, J.R. Bunyard, and John Hughes investigative committee on case of Sister Mary Butler, and W.W. Richey.

 

July 1866

The following united with the Church by letter:

Matthew G. McDonald                         Jonathan D. McElroy

Sister Willis Hagewood                         Frances Hagewood

Nancy C. Culpepper

 

Brother C.C. Martin excluded.  The report on Sister Mary Butler found to be untrue; charge dismissed.  Brother W.W. Richey was excluded.  Sister Mary Stone granted letter of dismission.  Brother John E. Brown selected as supply (Pastor) and Brother Matthew G. McDonald as clerk.  Church still in the Liberty Baptist Association.  Delegates were Willis Hagewood, A.M. Johnson, and John Hughes.

 

August and September 1866    No Conference

 

October 1855

Brother James Williams and wife united with Church by letter.  Sister Julia Godwin granted letter of dismission.  Brother H.O. Brunson was restored to the Church on October 22, 1866.

 

November 1866

Brother M.E. Stone, Moderator.  S. Smith, Church Clerk.

December 1866

Sister Jane Waller presented letter of dismission from the Church and was received back into the Church.

 

January 1867

Brother M.D. McElroy granted letter of dismission.

 

February 1867

(Note:  Minutes very hard to read at this point.)  Brother E. Smith, Moderator; Brother S. Smith, Clerk.  Appears that Brother J.D. Stone and wife Mary E. Stone were once members of Mt. Horeb. (This church south of Meridian in Zero).  Brother John Hughes and his wife Demaris Hughes and his daughter Catherine Hughes granted letter of dismission.

 

March 1867

Sister Molpus found to be in disorder and was excluded.

 

April 1867     No Conference

 

May 1867   Brother M. (W.) McDonald requested expulsion for drinking; matter laid over.

 

June 1867

(Note:  extremely hard to read)  Following names on this page:  John S. Smith; M.H. McDonald; J.A. Johnson; J.R. Bunyard; J.W. Blanks of Bethel Church, Willis Hagewood.

 

July 1867

Brother M.H. McDonald was excluded.  Case of John A. Smith laidover.

 

August 1867     No Conference

 

September 1867

The following united with Church by experience:

William J. Richey                                              David McPhail

John William Mooney                                       John Smith

Thomas Shedd                                                 Allen Honeycutt

S.O. Ellis                                                          Henry Pickard

Sister Arrena Smith                                           Martha Irby

Frances McDonald                                           Frances Smith

Colored Sister Jane Irby

 

By Letter:

Mildred Goodwin                                             Mary E. Irby

Emmer (Emma) Smith                           Elizabeth Reynolds

 

Brother J.P. Anderson, C.C. Martin, and Sister Jane Smith, restored.

 

October 1867     No Conference

 

November 1867

Sister Mary A. Clark, Brother Willis Haguewood, Sister Elizabeth Reynolds, and colored Sister Alcy granted letter of dismission.

 

December 1867

Sister Francis Mooney, Brother J.F. Johnson, Sister Marriett Johnson, Brother John Mooney and Sister Abigail Mooney granted letters of dismissison.

 

January 1868   Brother T.G. Rainer, Moderator

 

February 1868

Services by Brother Robert Brown.  Church received report that Brother Thomas Shedd had been dancing.  Committee of T.G. Rainer and Elkanah Smith appointed to investigate same.  Brother Henry Pickard admitted drinking too much and was forgiven.

 

March 1868

Brother Shedd forgiven by the Church.  Brother James P. Anderson expelled from Church for unchristian conduct.  Received new water bucket and pitchers.

 

April 1868

Brother Jackson Richey, Rolen (Roland) Perry, William Bunyard, C.C. Martin, and David McPhail reported to the Church for non-attendance.  Brother John A Smith, John Smith to see Brother Richey; Brother Elkanah Smith and R.F. Butler to see Brother Perry; Brother T.G. Rainer and J. E. Culpepper to see Brother Martin.

 

May 1868

Brother Richey gave satisfaction to Church: so did Brother Perry; Brother William Bunyard’s case is laid over, as was Brother Martin’s case.

 

June 1868

Brother William Bunyard gave satisfaction.  Brother Martin’s case laid over.

 

July 1868

Brother Martin gave satisfaction.  Delegates to the Liberty Baptist Association are Brothers T.G. Rainer, S.O. Ellis, and A.H. Johnson.

 

August 1868

Brother C.C. Martin reported for unchristian conduct and was excluded.

 

September, October, and November 1868   No Conference

 

 

December 1868

Brother James M. Smith and wife granted letters of dismissison.  Sister Allice McElroy also granted letter of dismission.

 

January and February 1869   No Conference

 

March 1869

Brother J. Adam Smith arraigned and tried for habitual drunkenness, for which he was excluded.  Brother Thomas Shedd reported for drunkenness; committee to see him:  Brother Elkanna Smith (Note:  Elkanah expelled without final “H”), David Smith and John Hughes.  Also, it was agreed to send a committee to ascertain the facts regarding this separation of Brother James Williams and his wife; committee was S.D. Ellis, A.M. Johnson, and P.R. Bunyard.  Brother Roland Perry and wife granted letters of dismission.  S.D. Ellis, Church Clerk.

 

April 1869

Brother Thomas Shedd was expelled for drunkenness.  Brother James Williams reported as walking disorderly, committee sent to see him as follows:  S.D. Ellis, J.T. Lafferty.  Sister Margaret Ellis reported dancing; committee of T.G. Rainer and John Smith appointed to see her.

 

May 1869

Sister Margaret Ellis was acquitted, as was Brother Henry Pickard.

 

June 1869

Preaching by Brother J.F. Johnson.  Sisters Mary E. Stone and Sarah W. Williams granted letters of dismission.

 

July through October 1869    No Conference

 

November 1869

Brother G.W. Richey and Brother J.W. Butler and wife Elizabeth Butler granted letters of dismission.

 

December 1869

Brother J.A. Smith reported as having been drunk; committee of Brother John Smith, Simpkin Smith sent to see him.  Also, committee same case sent to see Brother J.W. Rawling; consisting of Brother J.D. Stone.  IT appears that Brother Stone added to the first committee.  Sister Mildred Godwin granted letter of dismission.  Continued case of J.A. Smith; he was acquitted.

 

January 1870

J.A. Smith was excluded.

 

 

 

February 1970

Brother Henry Pickard reported acting unchristian.  Colored Sister Amanda Irby granted letter of dismissison.

 

March through June 1870   No Conference

 

July 1870

Jeremiah Hayman and wife Lucretia received by letter.  Brother J.A. Smith made application for restoration which was denied.

 

August 1870

Brother G.W. Rainer received by letter.  Delegates to Association were Jeremiah Hayman, T.G. Rainer and G.W. Irby, Alternate.

 

September 1870

Sister Mary Martin received by letter.

 

October 1870

Received Brothers N. Blackwell and J.W. Ellis.  Sister C.A.? Blackwell granted letters of dismission.

 

November 1870    No Conference

 

December 1870   Brother E.R. Smith, Moderator.

 

January 1871   No Conference

 

February 1871    Preaching by Brother J.F. Johnson

 

March 1871

Brother B.F. Anderson reported drinking and swearing; committee appointed by the Church to see him.

 

May 1871

Brother B.F. Anderson excluded.

 

June 1871     No Conference

 

July 1871

Brother G.W. Richey made satisfactory explanation for drinking to Church.

 

August and September 1871    No Conference

 

October 1871    Brother E. Smith, Moderator

 

 

November 1871  

Brother John A. Stone and wife A.A. Stone granted letters of dismission.

 

December 1871

Preaching by Brother Holoman Williams.  Brother J.A. Honeycutt requested dismission but Church appointed committee of J.A. Smith, John Hughes Sr. (Note:  First time Hughes written as Hughes and E. Smith.

 

January and February 1871    No Conference

 

March 1872

Preaching by Brother J.D. Brunson.  Brother J.A. Honeycutt excluded for drinking.

 

April 1872

Brother Jerre Hayman reported to have been drunk and using profane language; also, Brother A.M. Johnson reported for same offense.  One of the people appointed to see them was Brother J.A. Smith Sr

 

May 1872

Brother Jerre Hayman forgiven by the Church.  Brother A.M. Johnson was excluded by the Church.

 

June 1872

Brother Griffis appointed Moderator.  Brother G.W. Richey’s case laid over to next meeting.

 

July 1872

Brother G.W. Richey was excluded.  Brother G.G. Bunyard and wife granted letters of dismission.

 

August 1872

Church still a member of Liberty Baptist Association.  Mentions a father A. Dagherty (had to do with a motion made in the Association.)

 

September 1872

Brother Isaac Williams and wife Emily received by letter.  Brother George W. Anderson and wife Elizabeth were also received by letter.  Brother J. Adam Smith requested the Church to restore him; on motion and second he was received.

Received the following by experience:

B.J. Hays                                             W.J. Ellis

J.G. Johnson                                         Elizah Latham

G. or J.W. Hughes                                C.?E. Clarke

Samuel Hayman                                    H.M. Bunyard

M.J. Molpus                                         P.J. Smith

A.E. or C. Smith                                   Martha Martin

V.P.? Bunyard                                      L.J. Richey

P.?C/ Bunyard                                      S.F. Hays

T.? A. Rainer                                        Elizabeth Smith

Laura Richey

 

Brother J.A. Smith requested and was granted letter of dismission.  Also, Sister Mariah Bunyard and Jane Mosley were granted letters of dismission (both colored)

 

October 1872

Sister Frances N. (or W.) Reed received.

 

November 1872    No Conference

 

December 1872

The colored Church requested loan of Church record so they might obtain accurate forms – this granted.  Committee appointed to attend the next conference to assist them.

 

Names of Male Members – No Dates

P.L. Bunyard                                        Elkannah Smith

J.M. Bunyard                                       David Smith

F.B. Bunyard                                        J. P. Anderson

J.W. Akin                                             William Bunyard

W.J. Carter                                          L. Godwin

E.L. Carter                                           H.P. Lilly

James Mosley                                       Lewis Lilly

Jesse Tedder                                        A. M. Johnson

J. R. Bunyard                                       Allen Honeycutt

W. J. Anderson                                    Charley Gibson

C. M. Perry                                          W. S. Bunyard

John Hughes                                         J. W. Butler

E. Perry                                                T. G. Rainer

Jackson Richey                         Wesley Gibson

W. Puckett                                           Eliza Smith

H. P. Brunson                                       J. M. Walker

James Bunyard                         Elisha Ingram

James Gilbert                                        J. P. Irby

E. Tucker                                             M.O. Brunson

T. J. Bunyard                                        R. Molpus

S. Smith                                               J. M. Smith

J. J. Bunyard                                        M. Akins

B.F. Willis                                            John Butler

John Hays                                            John A. Smith

D. Pugh                                                Isaac Bunyard

J. M. Vann                                           George Rainer

William Richey                          R. Franklin Butler

William Honeycutt                                John Smith

Gibbs Richey                                        P. L. Bunyard

B. F. Ethridge                                       J.  W. Garrett

James Richey                                        William Stone

L.F. Bunyard                                        Davis Broomfield

Jesse Randall                                        William Jones

P. Matthews                                         Warren Embry

John Ethridge                                        Thomas J. Smith

Rolen Perry                                          Wiley Smith

John Pace                                             J. Alverson Smith

B.F. Willis                                            B.F. Richey

J.N. Vaughn                                         William Hughes

H. Taylor                                              J.W. Ellis

J.T. Lafferty                                          N. Blackwell

Y.? H. Watson                                     Silas N. Irby

William W. Richey                                Elizah Latham

Lewis Hughes                                       J.T. Johnson

G. G. Bunyard                                      B. J. Hays

John Hughes, Jr.                                   J. W. Hughes

S. (Sam?) J. Anderson                          U. E. Clark

C.C. Martin                                          Tom or Sam Hayman

J.N.D. McElroy                                    W. J. Ellis

M. J. McDonald                                   H. M. Bunyard

Willis Haguewood                                William Ansley

James Williams                         Jeremiah Hayman

J.D. Stone                                            G.W. Anderson

J. ? Johnson                                          Isaac Williams

William J. Richey                                  D. McPhail

J. W. Mooney                                      John Smith

Thomas Shedd                                     Allen Honeycutt

S. D. Ellis                                             Henry Pickens

G. W. Richey                                       B. F. Anderson

John A. Stone                                       William F. Hays

J. L.? Ellis                                             John L.? Irby

T. W. Irby

 

NAMES OF FEMALE MEMBERS – UNDATED

Nancy Anderson                                  Katharine Richey

Sophiah Bunyard                                  Elizabeth Irby

Selete Bunyard                         Harriett Randall

Rebecca Carter                                    Mary Honeycutt

Jennet Tedder                                       Frances Vann

Moriah McElroy                                   Martha Richey Smith

Nancy Wilson                                       Clarke (Clark?)

Elizabeth Tucker                                   Martha E. Bunyard Ethridge

Demaris Hughes                                   Francis J. Carter

Telitha Wiggins                         Elizabeth Ethridge

Lucinda Richey                         Manerny Akins

Mary Bunyard                                      Priscilla Matthews

Eliza Puckett                                         Sarah Smith

Elizabeth Brunson                                 Mary Clark

Sarah Ethridge                                      Nancy Hughes Molpus

Jane Hayman                                        Mary Molpus Hays

Delilah Bunyard                                    Melvina Silborn

Lydia Wolf                                           Manda Anderson

Lucretia Hayman                                  Katharine Molpus Anderson

Mary James                                          Elizabeth Ethridge

Caroline Hayman                                  Nobannah Bunyard

Elizabeth Carter                                    Mildred Godwin

Elizabeth Bunyard                                 Levina Akins

June or Jane Akins                                Rosenah Randall

Senah Hughes Smith                             Martha Rainer Smith

Charity Smith                                        Sarah Matthews Lilly

Sarah Hughes Smith

Note:  Senah and Sarah may have been sisters, both married Smith

Elmira (Zlmina?) Richey Anderson        Julia Gibson Godwin

Jane Smith                                            Martha Willis

Huldah Rainer                                       Margaret Pugh

Elizabeth Rainer                                    Julian Richey Molpus                 

Mary Smith                                          Jerusha Molpus

Caroline Gibson                                    Laura Townsend

Mary A. Clark                                      Eliza Rainer Butler

Harriett Bunyard                                   Sarah Rainer Culpepper

Emily Brunson                          Sarah Ingram

H.M. Bunyard                                      Malina S. Smith

Elizabeth Jones                         Sarah A. Tomces (Thomas?)

Sarah A. Richey Knox              Martha Ethridge

Emily Lilly                                             Telitha Richey Hughes Molpus

Sarah Garnett                                       Lucinda Eaton

Caroline Broomfield                              Nancy Broomfield

Francis Mooney                                   Elizabeth Clark

Mary Clark Smith                                 Sarah A. Tatum Lafferty

Lucy Vaughn                                        Harriett R. Smith ____? Vinson

Note:  There is another name written before Vinson “Anostson?) unable to read

Mary E. Rainer Stone                           Sytha H. Rainer Martin

Amanda M. Smith Richey                     Nancy Molpus

Mary A. Pringle                                    Phereby P. Godwin

Mary L. Butler                          Francis Perry

Margaret Godwin                                 Elizan Grantham Bunyard

Elizabeth Smith Butler               Susan Blalock

Mary Butler Vinson                              Katharine Hughes

Mary E. Bunyard Hughes                      Jane Waller

Higgiah (Hizzah) Gibson                        Jane Anderson

Allie McElroy                                       Frances Ellis

Nancy Johnson                         Frances Hagewood

Nancy Culpepper                                 Sarah A. Williams

Harriett Johnson                                   Abigail Mooney

Arrena Smith                                        Francis Smith Irby

Mary E. Irby                                        Emmer (Emma) Smith

Elizabeth Reynolds                                Manery Akin

Prissillia Matthews                                Sarah Smith

Mary Clark                                          Nancy E. Hughes

Mary Molpus                                       Melvina Sillorn

Amanda Anderson                                Catherine Molpus

 

A note found:  J.S. Ellis was married to S.A. Vann (Vaughn?)

 

 


Submitted by Elizabeth Hagwood Poster-#-4-
Submitted by
David Pickett Poster-#-65-

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