History of Guntersville

First Presbyterian

Church

History of

First Presbyterian Church

Guntersville, Alabama

1820-200_

Notes from Mrs. Leila Fearn Lusk and

Elizabeth Lee Lusk 1890-1934

Excerpts from the history compiled by Reverend Roy Miller

in 1979

The rest gleaned from minutes of Session and

Presbyterian Women by Doris Flynn

            The present church was organized by Rev. F. B. Bedinger, a Presbyterian evangelist sent to this town by the North Alabama Presbytery. Mr. Bedinger began a meeting in Guntersville on the 15th of June 1890, using the Methodist church on invitation.

On the 25th of June this church was organized at the residence of Mr. Robert Reeves, with the following five members - three from Huntsville by letter - Mrs. Mary Wyeth Carlisle, Mrs. Louisa Wyeth Todd and Mrs. Leila Fearn Lusk, one from Marble Springs Church by letter, Mrs. Lida M. Reeves, and Mrs. Louis Wyeth; upon a renewal of her profession of faith in Christ made many years before in Huntsville during the pastorate of her father, Rev. John Allen of the Presbyterian Church. Her membership being afterwards removed to a Presbyterian Church organized in Guntersville before the war and discontinued as a result of it.

Mrs. Todd’s letter carried with it the names of three baptized children, Louis Wyeth, Mary Carlisle, and John Allen, Mrs. Lusk’s son, Robert Fearn. Beside Mrs. Wyeth, the charter members of the earlier church were: Judge Wyeth and their baptized children, Mary, Louisa and John Allen, and the wife, son and daughter of the Rev. Mr. Root, a Presbyterian minister who occasionally held services. The Church was organized by Rev. Mr. Penland of Madison County. The services were then conducted in the school located back of the business section of the town which was burned during the Civil War.

Nearly one hundred years ago, as far back as March 1820, the Presbyterians, under the auspices of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, established the Cherokee Mission School at the place known as Missionary Station at Cross Roads, near Steeles Ford on Big Spring Creek. This Presbyterian Mission is known as the third oldest Church in the state of Alabama and 2nd oldest school of its kind in North America. See account of “Brainerd Mission” by Robert Sparks Walker who claims above as oldest in North America denominationally speaking. The Roman Catholic had an organization in Mobile as early as 1704. History of Baptists in Alabama by Hasen Halcombe shows Flint River Baptist Church near Huntsville, Alabama was constituted on October 2, 1808. With Brainerd as a base of operation work progressed into Northern Alabama, the first station formed was at Creek Path in 1820 and Rev. Daniel S. Butrick was assigned as Missionary.

Butrick assembled some Indians at a point near Guntersville. They cut timbers and put up a house 22' x 17', making the boards for the roof without a saw. They put up part of the chimney, cut out a door, and split some puncheons for the floor. The next day was the Sabbath. The congregation was made up of about thirty Cherokees. By the next Thursday the floor was in, the chimney finished, the house chinked, benches made, so the school began with eight pupils.

In June 1820, teachers in this school were Rev. Daniel S. Butrick and Catherine Brown, a native Indian girl, who was put in charge of a female school at the same place. In the spring of 1821 Mr. Butrick and Catherine Brown were succeeded by Rev. William Potter and his wife. They remained in charge of the school until it was broken up about 1837 by the removal of the Indians.

This was the modest beginning of Presbyterianism in this area. Two years later the Creek Path Church was enrolled in West Tennessee Presbytery. The Indian, John Arch, was also instrumental in founding Creek Path Mission. The missionaries feared to accept him at first since he was “deemed so savage in appearance.”

Rev. William Potter came to Creek Path from Connecticut on January 19, 1821, and labored there until 1837. Another Missionary from Connecticut to become a Presbyterian was Dr. Elizur Butler, a physician among the Cherokees, who had come to Creek Path in 1824.

Here is an article that appeared in The Advertiser Gleam in the August 9, 2003 issue. Historian Larry Smith found this letter in a Chattanooga library doing some research. The letter was from the Old Creek Path Indian Mission near Guntersville and was dated May 11, 1827.

“It’s the oldest letter I’ve ever seen that involved Guntersville,” Mr. Smith said.

The letter was from William Potter, who was a missionary at Creek Path. He wrote to Jeremiah Evarts of Boston, an official of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions. The board was in charge of about 10 missions scattered through Alabama, Tennessee and Georgia.

The subject of the letter was employing David Brown to do some interpreting for the missionary board.

Here’s what the letter said as it appeared in The Advertiser-Glean:

“Dear Sir, The other day, Mr. Brown handed me your letter to him of Feb. tenth in which you wish me to express my ‘views as to the best time and place and manner of employing’ him.

“If he should be accepted, my opinion is that he should be employed as a catechist after being (undecipherable) by Presbytery, the whole of his time; in giving public and private instruction, and that he should be stationed near some station where he could have the advise and direction of a clergyman.

“He might perhaps be well employed a (undecipherable) of his time in writing his own language. Respectfully yours, Wm. Potter”

A native Cherokee, John Huss, was licensed to preach at a meeting of Presbytery in Twickenham (Huntsville), and his ordination was at Creek Path “that all the Indians might witness the solemn service”. Someone had carefully prepared thirty-four questions that were propounded to him in his own tongue, embracing all the essential doctrine of Christianity. Upon his satisfactory answers he was solemnly set apart to the office of the Presbyterian Ministry. This was on July 20, 1833, and the first Indian Presbyterian Minister in Alabama. We feel that this was the David Brown, who translated these questions into the Indian language that Wm. Potter referred to in the letter that Mr. Larry Smith found.

The Cherokees were on their way West by 1838, accompanied by the Rev. Dr. Butler, their beloved physician, and the Creek Path Mission gradually fell into disuse, eventually becoming a residence. This old station still serves as a residence, and bids fair to endure for another century. It was the first house built in that part of the “Reservation” in Marshall County. Judge Wyeth and his wife were living in this historic building, when their son John Allen, now a distinguished surgeon in New York City was born. The house was destroyed by fire in 1930.

Resuming the introductory history of the present church - In August 1890, Rev. A. L. Phillips of Birmingham held services at the Cumberland Church, which was kindly tendered for regular services about a week. At this meeting Miss Mary Carlisle Todd and Mrs. Robert M. Reeves were admitted to membership, and Mr. J. A. Lusk was received by letter from M. E. Church South. With this small beginning, the church at once took steps to secure regular services and wrote to the Presbytery asking for the half of Rev. Mr. Bedingers time. The request being granted, he began his ministry in Guntersville on the first Sabbath of November 1890, preaching twice a day on the first and third Sabbath of each month. The interesting and attractive family of Mr. Bedinger made this place their home. His wife and her sister, Miss A. R. Piatt from Anchorage, Ky., were received by letter from Huntsville. Mrs. Bedingers letter carrying with it the names of the baptized children, Lucas Piatt, Ida Louise, Robert Dabney, Frank Cleveland and Wm. Rutherford. The second son, Robert, was in after years ordained for the ministry and consecrated his life to the cause of Foreign mission, serving the Lord in this capacity in far away Africa on the Congo River.

In July 1891, the Rev. John A Preston of Florence, Alabama held an interesting series of services and several members were received. On December 11, 1892 Rev. J. M. Evans, an evangelist of the Presbyterian Church, conducted services and several additions were made by profession of faith and by letter. A congregational meeting was held on February 5, 1893 for the purpose of electing officers. Mr. R. M. Reeves and J. A. Lusk were unanimously elected elders, and Mr. Thomas. L. Farrow and Mr. Wm. F. Eichbaum were unanimously elected to serve as deacons. On the 19th of February these officers, with the exception of Mr. Eichbaum, were solemnly ordained with prayers and regularly installed. The first session of the church met at the residence of Mr. R. M. Reeves on May 19, 1893 and Mr. J. A. Lusk was elected Clerk and authorized to order a book of records.

In July 1893 an interesting meeting was conducted by Rev. J. H. Bryson of Huntsville, and the following Sabbath the session met after services receiving Dr. J. M. Jackson and Major Hugh Carlisle on the profession of faith both having been baptized in infancy 63 and 71 years before.

In 1893, Presbytery was cordially invited to hold their session in this town by the church, and was entertained in a welcome and friendly manner, affording a stimulus to the little band of members and the community.

Soon after this, membership increasing in Wyeth City, the southern part of town, it was decided to erect a building for their convenience, and the Wyeth City church was erected in 1896, Mr. Bedinger dividing his services between the two churches.

The Rev. W. H. Darnell conducted services on May 18, 1895, and two new members were admitted to the church. After the resignation of Mr. B. F. Bedinger on March 6, 1896, the Rev. J. H. Wood became pastor of the church, and remained about six months. Our next pastor was the Rev. Kenneth Alexander Campbell, who began his ministry in February 1900, and served about 5 years. On September 5, 1905, the Rev. Dr. Parker of Decatur, and the Rev. Mr. Brownlee conducted services, admitting several to membership. Dr. Orr of Birmingham also held very interesting services.

The Rev. Mr. J. G. Revely came as pastor the latter part of the year, 1905. It was during his ministry that the Ladies Aid Society was organized, December 15, 1905. A meeting of the church women was called at the home of Mrs. Charles Fricke, and the following were present: Mrs. Fricke, Mrs. Mattie Kennedy (sister of Mrs. Revely), Mrs. J. G. Revely, Mrs. John. W. Tucker, Mrs. John A. Lusk, Mrs. N. B. Lansden, Mrs. R. M. Huffman, Mrs. W. A. Black was unable to be present but sent her name to be entered on the roll. The following officers were elected: Mrs. Chas. Fricke - President, Mrs. W. A. Black - Vice-President, Mrs. John A. Lusk - Secretary & Treasurer.

Mr. Garrison’s service as evangelist about this time proved a source of inspiration to all.

By courtesy of the Rev. S. B. Hunter, pastor of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, meetings in Guntersville were held in that church until the erection of the First Presbyterian Church in 1911. The Cumberland Presbyterian Church was located diagonally across the street from the present First United Methodist Church.

After Mr. Revely, the pulpit was occupied by the Rev. G. C. Alexander, who was installed March 1, 1906. Mr. Alexander served about a year, and our next pastor was the Rev. W. F. Harris, whose installation services were on March 1, 1910. It was during the ministry of Mr. Harris that the construction of the church was begun, the cornerstone being laid in 1911.

The congregation, searching for a suitable plan for the new Sanctuary, sent representatives to Fayetteville, Tennessee, to look at a building recently completed by the Presbyterians there. It was decided to duplicate that building but on a smaller scale and with minor changes. The roof was lowered two feet, and the overall dimensions reduced. The entry would have columns rather than two rooms extending forward on either side of the door.

The sandstone for the foundation walls was quarried near Short Creek. (That is the first creek over the mountain as you go to the State Park.) It was moved to the building site by ox-team and very likely this work was done by a black man named Monroe Middlebrooks.

The walls of the building are cement block faced with clay brick. The cement was ordered and delivered by railroad. Two cars were placed on the siding near the present rail office and the blocks made on the building site; this work was done by Jack Ivey. The cement blocks measure 10"x 10"x 14". The foundation walls are 20 inches thick.

The clay brick facing was very likely produced in Mississippi and secured through a local or Huntsville firm. The original roof was composed of galvanized tin shingles with a pressed design called “the burning bush,” produced in Chattanooga, Tennessee. A sample of this shingle now hangs in the Church Office.

The building is of the Classical Revival style of Architecture that was quite popular at the turn of the 20th Century and is based closely on the Italian Renaissance design of the 16th Century architect Andrea Palladio.

The four columns on the porch were given by Dr. John Allan Wyeth. After delivery to Guntersville by Rail Road, it was found that they would not fit. Each column had a variation in length and the porch roof was not perfectly level, but by careful work they were finally put in place.

Mrs. Harris, the noble wife of our pastor W. F. Harris, rendered great and efficient service in the work of the Ladies Aid, and it might be added here that it was during the stay of Dr. Harris that the construction of our present church building was undertaken. Also during Mr. Harris’ stay, the “Gleaners” was organized, and likewise the “Boys Club”. These organizations aided in procuring funds for the new church. Sixty dollars was soon handed in to further its construction.

The following resolutions were adopted: That the Society be known as the Presbyterian Ladies Aid Society of Guntersville and Wyeth City. That the dues for members be 10 cents monthly. That the society meets every Monday at 2:30 p.m. at such homes as may be appointed at the previous meeting. Mrs. Tucker be authorized to select material for sewing for the next meeting to the amount of 95 cents.

Work was begun in earnest and needles flashed swiftly sped by busy fingers - duty and pleasure combined making an ideal “first day of the year.”

It was decided that the “Aid” have the Huffman house repaired and fixed up as nicely as possible, if needed, for the Pastor- and Mrs. Lusk was required to write Mr. Revely of the intention.

Ways and means for Pastor’s salary was discussed and secretary requested to write Mr. Orr as to same.

The President lead in a discussion to arrange some entertainment about Easter and all were requested to bring their ideas to the next meeting.

The Easter entertainment was decided on with refreshments, ice cokes, candy and a toy for the children.

In April sewing resumed on the quilt. At the May meeting the quilt was pronounced finished and it was decided to quilt it next meeting.

In July some sewing was done and a discussion as to repairing and beautifying the interior of the church - it was decided to use the funds accumulated by the Aid in this direction and Mrs. Alexander offered to see about plans and prices relative to new altar and chairs and report at next meeting.

It was decided to pay monthly from the treasury the sum of $1.50 to supplement the income of the minister.

Moved that the Aid get carpet - 86 yards - for church. The new pulpit - chairs - and carpet - and reconstruction of platform all reported paid for and twenty dollars still in the treasury.

The Ladies Aid disbanded in July 1916 and on March 25, 1917 the society was reorganized as The Women’s Auxiliary of the Presbyterian Church.

In 1913 the Rev. F. C. Rogers became pastor of this church. During his pastorate, Mr. John W. Fricke was installed as Ruling Elder, and Mr. W. H. Carter and John A. Lusk, Jr. were installed as Deacons.

The Rev. Mr. H. C. Kegley served as pastor during 1916 and 1917, and Mr. F. B. Albert was installed as Elder on June 24, 1917.

During the summer when our pulpit was vacant, theological students supplied the vacancy.

The First Presbyterian Church was now finished, largely through the arduous and devoted efforts of the women of the church who gave their best toward this sacred cause.

An interim follows in which both laymen and ministers furnished our pulpit. Among these may be mentioned Dr. Richardson, Mr. Garrison of Texas, Mr. Brownlee and the Rev. Mr. Iverson Graham, Mr. D. C. Stogner and others.

The Rev. Mr. E. F. Griffith served pastor from August 5, 1923 to December 14, 1924. On August 27 1923, the following deacons were elected: Roland Fricke, David George Henderson and L. T. Sullivan. There were now three Elders, John A. Lusk, J. W. Fricke and F. B. Albert , and four Deacons, S. K. Yarbrough having been previously elected. The church roll was revised and fifty-two names were placed on the new roll.

The Rev. Mr. W. E. Crane was our next pastor, coming in 1925 and serving until January 1927. He was a splendid worker, popular, and did much for the church. In the summer of 1925 Mr. William Earl Crane conducted the first Daily Vacation Bible School in the basement of the Church, assisted by the young people of the church. The school met with great success and created much interest.

The Woman’s Presbyterian Auxiliary of North Alabama met in this church, April 19-20-21, 1927. Mrs. Paul Speake was president. A series of interesting programs were given, and much was accomplished.

Mr. Crane was succeeded by Mr. Louis J. Yelanjian in the spring of 1927. He resided in Springville, Alabama and divided his time between the Presbyterian Church there and our church. Following Mr. Crane’s example, he also conducted a Daily Vacation Bible School, but at the City School. Revival series, inspirational and beneficial, were conducted by the Rev. Mr. J. E. Paul in September 1927. On June 16, 1929, Mr. D. B. McCullough was elected Elder and Clerk of the Session, and Mr. E. W. Crabtree, Deacon.

Beginning October 19, 1929, a revival was conducted by the Rev. Mr. C. G. Partridge, our evangelist. Mr. Partridge has been a faithful worker in this field for years, and the Guntersville Church owes much to his indefatigable efforts on its behalf. Whenever the day seemed darkest for our church, his optimism always created an atmosphere of hope and comfort. He is greatly beloved by the Presbyterian and other denominations in Guntersville. At the time of the revival above mentioned, there were three additions to the church roll.

Mr. Yelanjian left soon after, in the first part of 1930. The Rev. Mr. Bayliss came on September 28, 1930, and remained about six months. During his ministry the church roll was again revised, and due to death and removal of membership, the roll was found to be reduced to forty-six.

The Rev. Mr. Hixon, of Hixon, Tennessee served this pulpit from February 27, 1931 to November 1931, occupying the pulpit on alternate Sundays.

Our present minister is the Rev. Mr. Stewart Holdernes Long, of Sanford, Florida. Mr. Long has occupied the pulpit since June 1932, coming here almost directly after his graduation from Columbia Theological Seminary at Decatur, Georgia. He was an honor graduate of Columbia, and also Davidson College, where he received his A.B. He was ordained at the meeting of Presbytery at Talladega in October 1932.

On March 19, 1934 a furnace fund was started. In November of that year the Auxiliary paid Mr. McClain $5.00 of furnace repair.

The Auxiliary paid for the new window bought for church which was $2.35, the bill for coal was due, the auxiliary having pledged to pay for these items. The janitor was to be paid by the Auxiliary, also for fuel bill for winter. The ladies started a quilt for Mrs. Blake (Rev. Blake was pastor 1935-38).

In 1937 the Auxiliary raised money for church basement. Treasurer reported $7.00 had been collected.

From 1938 to 1941 was a bleak period - attendance faltered and only the Sunday School persevered.

The Auxiliary voted in 1938 to let the Boy Scouts use the basement of the church for their weekly meeting and they pay for the coal and lights used.

A piano became available for the basement in 1939, and it was voted that the Auxiliary pay for moving the piano and building a platform for the piano. Lumber was given for platform.

The Auxiliary wrote a letter to Mr. James and Mr. Harris about taking the pastorate of the church. Mr. James reported “He was taking matter under prayerful consideration” - Mr. Harris wanted to know if house-rent could be furnished. In December 1940 Mr. James accepted another call, but recommended Mr. Gregory of Bessemer.

The women of the church, realizing the utmost need of a resident minister and the necessity of building a manse, began in January 1941, this serious work with an ultimate goal in view. Never before, since the building of the Church, have our women devoted such earnest and consecrated efforts for the maturing of plans for the up building of our Church.

The Home Mission Board of the North Alabama Presbytery cooperated with the congregation in efforts to secure a minister. The Reverend Mr. David Burr Gregory of the First Presbyterian Church of Bessemer, Alabama accepted the call and was installed on April 27, 1941. They moved into the new manse July 3, 1941. The site selected for the manse was part of the church property facing N.E. on Greenwood Street. Ground was broken in May and a five room brick dwelling with all modern conveniences was completed in a little over two months. The manse boasts of a flagstone terrace and front walk, a basement garage, a forced hot-air furnace and electric hot water heater. The Woman’s Auxiliary has been indefatigable in raising funds for the manse (which incidentally is the first Presbyterian manse to be erected in Marshall County). Too much cannot be said for their zeal and efforts in this work.

During the Christmas season the Church invited the soldiers stationed at the Guntersville Dam to services, and made provision for their entertainment in private homes. These soldiers were from Indiana and Illinois - about seventy-five in number - and with the members of the Coast Guard also at the Dam, were most appreciative of the fellowship and courtesies extended by our minister and the congregation.

In the summer of 1942, a vested choir of the young people of the Church was organized under the direction of Mrs. Marion F. Lusk, pianist.

Renovation of the interior of the Church took place in 1943. Repair of the roof was undertaken with the aid of the Auxiliary. The pulpit chairs were re-finished and re-upholstered in damask. A new choir-rail curtain of velour was made and given by Mrs. Leila Fearn Lusk and Miss Elizabeth Lee Lusk.

A new project undertaken by the Auxiliary is a weekly sale of sandwiches - made by the members in turn - which has netted the sum of $289.00 to be applied to the Manse Fund. A little over $2000.00 was expended by Church and Auxiliary on Pastor’s salary, current expenses, Church renovation and Manse Fund in past year. The manse was constructed in 1941 and was completely paid for in 1944.

Rev. William B. Hart began his ministry here the first Sunday in October of 1944. Mr. Hart organized a weekly prayer service and revived the Young Peoples’ Organization. There are no outstanding debts largely through the efforts of the Woman’s Auxiliary, the manse debt has been fully paid - which obligation was met just prior to Mr. Gregory’s departure. The church has been re-roofed. The grounds have been improved by a retaining wall built with concrete steps leading down from the main street on which the Church fronts.

The necessary sum for the purchase of an exterior Bulletin Board has been contributed by members, and an ample supply of new hymnals has been purchased. A Bulletin Board for Sunday School reports was the gift of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hovis. Robert Hovis also gave the Communion Cup holders that are on the back of the pews.

In 1946, improvements of the church property were made by the complete renovation of the basement, with class rooms, kitchen and rest rooms. A study for the pastor was also added and furnished, and an inside stairway from the auditorium to the basement. A new heating system, of butane gas, was the gift of the McCormacks and Throckmorton families. The church auditorium was also completely renovated, and a new electric organ, purchased by personal subscription as a memorial to Mrs. Gus May Sr. In 1947 a set of chimes, in memory of Mrs. Charles Fricke, was purchased for the organ, and a loud speaker to broadcast special programs, has been installed. The kitchen has been equipped with sink cabinets, electric stove and additional china, and folding tables and chairs purchased for the dining hall. The laying of asphalt tile in the basement was completed. A stoker was purchased for the manse furnace.

June 1947- it was moved and adopted that the church purchase a mimeograph machine in the amount of $45.00.

Dedication of the manse, organ and chimes were held in the auditorium of the church, March 25, 1948, 3:30 p.m. by Rev. W. D. Hart assisted by Rev. J. Mc.D. Richards.

On April 20 - 21, 1948, North Alabama Presbytery met at First Presbyterian Church, Guntersville.

In 1948 The Women’s Auxiliary changed to the Women of the Church. A valuable Jersey calf was presented to the Presbyterian Home for Children at Talladega, through the Women of the Church, as a gift from Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Tate of Lakeview Jersey Farm.

The minutes of Session October 3, 1949 reported progress of the purchase of the Communion Table. This Communion Table was given in memory of May Carter Sullivan by her friends.

The Women of the Church prepared and sold lunches at two cattle sales in 1950. They netted $108.80 on the two sales.

The Women of the Church had their share in making possible the purchase of a residence on the South side of the Church. By unanimous vote of the congregation the purchase of a handsome field stone house of 8 rooms on a 75 foot lot adjoining the church property on the South side was made on December 26, 1950, for $15,000.00.

At a congregational meeting on December 17, 1950 the Trustees were authorized to pay for property purchased from R. A. Brown with a mortgage to T. C. Griffith of $3,000 on the East 65 feet of lots 2, 4, 6 and 8 in Block 12; and payable $600 and 5-1/2% interest on or before each year for five years, and also to a mortgage to Elizabeth Lee Lusk and others for not over $9,000 on the equity in the Manse and on lots 10, 12, 14 and 16 in Block 12 payable 1/10 of the principal and 4% interest on or before each year for ten years. This home will be the manse and furnishes more commodious quarters for our minister and family. The original manse is destined for future Sunday School extension quarters.

The Women of the Church sold vanilla to members of the church, in return a coffee urn was received for the kitchen. The women are very interested in a new organ and have held several rummage sales and several dinners to create interest and contributions to this fund.

Mrs. John A. (Leila Fearn) Lusk was given an Honorary Life Membership to the Presbyterian Women of the Presbyterian Church.

March 2, 1953 it was moved and adopted that the ladies be given authority to purchase a new organ and to trade the old organ. Charles Frye, T. W. Throckmorton and D. G. Henderson were to assist the ladies in the purchase. The session gave approval for rummage sales and dinners to create interest and contributions for the organ fund.

The church was to purchase two Communion Chairs to match the Communion Table.

In 1953 the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church of Hobbs Island, which had been supplied with ministers from First Presbyterian Church of Guntersville, for many years, was divided from this church by The Home Mission of Presbytery, and placed the Ebenezer Church with the Talucah Church.

Rev. W. D. Hart’s resignation was effective February 15, 1954. In February of this year, memorial communion chairs for Mrs. D. G. Henderson, Sr. were being considered. The men having failed to take care of the matter, the Women of the Church asked that a committee be appointed to go before the Deacons and get permission to complete the project. In October a new Electric Hammond Organ was purchased for $2,600. The new organ was dedicated Sunday, November 28 of that same year in memory of Mrs. Gus May and Mrs. D. G. Henderson, Sr.

From the December 5, 1954 Session minutes - On September 8, 1952 at a meeting of the officers of the church Deacon Stuart Stone introduced a resolution, seconded by Deacon Harry Rutland, Sr. that the officers of the church present the church with a new Pulpit Bible. At the December 5, 1954 meeting Stuart Stone had on display a Bible - cost $70 - $4 each per officer. In February of 1955 Bill Harris prepared the fly leaf of the Bible for the officer’s signature. This Bible is in the Church Parlor.

In February of 1955, a campaign for Stained Glass Windows was started. These were purchased from Fost Art Glass Company, 2365 Rossville Blvd., Chattanooga, Tennessee. Ten side windows will be in two parts and have ventilators at bottom, and that all eleven will have a memorial plate or panel; at $95 each for the side windows and $65 for the overhead front door glass (this is to carry Seal of Presbyterian Church US, plus $3.50 each for the memorial panel. Cash on delivery of $1,015.00. The two front windows were the gift of Mrs. Robert Fearn, Jr. (Mother of Mrs. John A. Lusk) and were installed on completion of the church.

The congregation of the First Presbyterian Church voted to install a heating and cooling system for the Sanctuary, in July of 1955. The cost of the cooling and heating system was $6,179.

Rev. Ernest (Buddy) Mellor was installed July 24, 1955. A major improvement job was started and completed in 1955, centering about the sanctuary. In addition to a new heating and air conditioning plant, a newly painted and repaired sanctuary, a remodeled choir loft, new antique pulpit furniture, a new lighting system, refinished pews, new memorial windows, wall to wall carpet and a new guest registry table. Friends from many places came to the dedication which was held October 9, 1955.

In October of 1955 it was adopted that the church assume its whole financial obligations, and not make application to the Home Mission Board for aid, during the year of 1956.

The Rotary System for elders and deacons was adopted December 21, 1955. Elders and Deacons shall serve 3 consecutive years then rotate off for one year and be eligible for re-election.

New things were happening in North Alabama Presbytery and the First Presbyterian Church, Guntersville had a great part of this. January 18, 1956 - TVA would sell at Public Auction in Scottsboro, Alabama the proposed site that North Alabama Presbytery wants to purchase for a Conference Ground. Elder M. F. Lusk was requested to be present at this auction and explain for what purpose the church wants the site. The minimum bid being $6,000. This is known as Camp Maranatha and later lakeside@maranatha.

In 1956 two major projects were undertaken. The first was a complete renovation of the Rock Manse. An almost complete re-plastering of the house, a new electrical and lighting system, remodeled the kitchen area, painted both inside and outside of house. The changes were happily noted by all and the total cost of $3,300.00 was met by voluntary contributions. The second addition was made in the basement area of the manse. This was sponsored and carried out by the men of the Church for the purpose of converting the full basement area of the Manse to Sunday School space. This was done in a period of some 12 weeks, with 500 voluntary man hours contributed. A new asphalt floor, all outside walls were plastered, new celotex ceiling, new heating and electrical systems were installed, modern rest room facilities, making it a worthy addition. The entire basement is now used for Primary, Junior, Pioneers and Young Adult Sunday School Classes. This project cost $1,500.00, the bulk which was paid by voluntary offerings from our members.

At a meeting of the Session in 1957, it was moved and seconded and adopted that the Session accept with thanks on behalf of the church the beautiful basins given the church by Elder Sullivan in memory of his son, Deacon Bill Sullivan, that a letter be written to that effect.

Reverend E. H. Mellor’s resignation was effective April 21, 1957. John R. Hall, a student at Columbia Theological Seminary is our student pastor at this time.

Mr. John Rhea Hall graduated from Columbia Theological Seminary in June 1958 and was ordained at the First Presbyterian Church, Guntersville, Alabama on July 20, 1958 and was installed as pastor of this Church on the same date. A reception was held in the

basement for the Reverend and Mrs. John Hall.

The Church purchased and installed a Bulletin Board at a cost of $425.00. The exterior part of the church building was repaired and new gutters installed, costing $466.65.

The Women of the Church presented an Honorary Life Membership to Mrs. T. S. Stribling (Kathleen) on January 20, 1958 in love and appreciation for her work and service. The Women of the Church gave $25.00 to a Negro student to help further her education

(this had been done in years past); also a donation of $25.00 to aid Negro work. The Women gave the Negro school (Lakeview, an accredited High School) a two years subscription to Reader’s Digest.

Ed Henderson was installed as Assistant Pastor of our Church. Ed, united with the church in 1948, became a candidate for the ministry in 1957, and is attending Southwestern at Memphis.

Our church and the North Alabama Presbytery established a Presbyterian Chapel in Arab, Alabama, as a forerunner to an organized Church. The Church is sponsoring the Chapel work under the direction of the Home Mission Committee of the North Alabama Presbytery and our Minister, The Reverend John R. Hall. Ed Henderson was the Minister of the Arab Chapel during the summer months. The first service was held June 21, 1959.

A binder was purchased in 1959 for our History at Montreat.

In June of 1959 a Building Committee for the construction of the Educational Building was formed. Mr. A. L. Burdette, Chairman, Miss Martha Bradford, Mr. Ed Crabtree, Jr., Mr. John Lynch, Mr. Tom Roberts. The Finance Committee: Mr. H. E. Kooiman, Chairman, Miss Elizabeth Lusk, Mrs. A. L. Burdette, Mrs. John Bostwick, Mrs. F. M. Knezovich, Mr. O. L. Majure, Mr. H. M. Rutland, Sr., Dr. T. E. Martin, Mr. John Fohner.

The Session gave permission to the W.O.C. to establish a memorial for Mrs. Sallie Dean. Committee comprised of Mrs. Robert Hovis, Mrs. O. L. Majure and Mrs. Betty Bostwick to select and order Communion Set from funds donated for this purpose.

A motion was made and seconded and adopted at the March 1960 Session Meeting to discontinue the chapel work at Arab.

In 1961 Mr. and Mrs. John Fohner, Sr. presented the church with a silver communion tray and cups, which were most gratefully received and badly needed.

In September of 1961, after discussion it was duly moved and passed that the church be Incorporated under the rules of Church Order and the laws of Alabama, and that the congregation be requested to adopt the necessary Resolution to that effect.

In 1963 the congregation entered into the Building of the Educational Building.

On July 14, 1963 Reverend John R. Hall resigned as Pastor of this church to become associate Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, Anniston, Alabama. Reverend Robert Henry Crumby preached his first sermon as our new Minister on December 8, 1963.

May 13, 1965 - The Session advised the Board of Deacons to seat anyone coming to church regardless of color.

North Alabama Presbytery meet at the Guntersville church in June of 1965.

The house across the street from the church, which is owned by Presbytery, where the minister, Rev. Robert Crumby and his family live is sold to the Church for $1.00 from the Presbytery and the proceeds of the sale of the house to be used to build or buy an adequate manse. A lot in Indian Hills just off of Highway 79 South was given to the church by Mrs. Mildred Miller Bell Burdette. A modern 3 bed room house was built as the Church’s manse.

As a memorial for Mr. John William Fricke, the silver goblet was given by his wife, Mrs. Rebecca Fricke, and dedicated and used during Communion Sunday, December 25, 1966.

A silver baptismal cup and a Bible marker were dedicated in 1968 in memory of Mrs. Vaughn Myers.

On July 14, 1968 Reverend Bob Crumby and Bill Harris left on a 1,275 mile boat trip to New Orleans.

1969 - The Marshall County Association for the Retarded were allowed to conduct a school in the basement of the Educational Building.

The Women of the Church held their first Salad Bar Luncheon in 1969 at a $1.00 per plate and gave the proceeds to the Marshall County Association for the Retarded. The Salad Bar Luncheon was held from 1969 through 1981. Later years the proceeds went to help the church and to refurbish the parlor.

Rev. Robert Henry Crumby resigned May 25, 1969.

The Worship and Commitment Committee, in 1970 was authorized to purchase from the Memorial Fund four Communion Table runners, four Bible book markers and a flower stand from memorial funds.

Richard Cushman arrived December 2, 1969 and was installed as our pastor, April 29, 1970.

In 1970, a Baptismal Font was bought from the memorial funds for Mr. Ed Crabtree, Sr. Money having been given in memorials for him. Also, Mrs. Garnett Bosserman gave a funeral pall in memory of Mr. Earl Bosserman from his memorials and her paying the rest.

On September 7, 1970 the “Little Manse” exploded. Fred and Joyce Owens and sons Tony and Steve were renting the house from the church. All of them were burned with Joyce being the most badly burned.

In March of 1971, the Maranatha Camp Committee asked for the old church bell to use at Camp Maranatha. Motion was made to let them use the bell.

New doors to the Sanctuary have been ordered.

August 10, 1975 Richard Cushman was granted request to dissolve the pastoral relationship with this church. Reverend Walter

Morris Zenah was hired as our interim minister for 6 months or until we could secure a regular minister.

In 1975 the Congregation voted for the Church Property and Church to be a corporation. This corporation shall be and shall remain a distinct and independent Church corporation, free from the regulation and control of any higher church body, denomination or other organization with which it is now or may be hereafter associated or affiliated insofar as the management, control, ownership, disposition, or alienation of its real property is concerned.

A portable Communion Set was purchased.

There was need for a new Communion Cloth and Oliver Conley gave a new cloth in memory of his mother, Mrs. Charlie Conley.

At a session meeting on June 27, 1977, the session voted to remove the phrase “Descended into Hell” from the Apostles’ Creed.

Rev. Roy Melvin Miller is the new minister as of September 26, 1977.

On December 18, 1977 a congregational meeting was held to eliminate the office of Deacon and to adopt the Unicameral system of government for the First Presbyterian Church of Guntersville, Alabama. The number of Elders will be increased to 12.

First Presbyterian Church hosted the Moderator’s Banquet (moderator of General Assembly) on January 16, 1978.

It is recorded in the Session Minute Book on April 25, 1978 The First Presbyterian Church took a stand against homosexuality. We believe it to be a sin for the church to even consider any form of approval of homosexuality.

At a Congregational meeting, June 16, 1978, Elders O. L. Majure, D. G. Henderson, Sr., T. S. Stribling and W. T. Throckmorton were awarded Elder Emeritus Certificates.

Efforts were made in October of 1978 to place The First Presbyterian Church, Guntersville, Alabama on the Federal Register of Historic Buildings.

The Sanctuary was re-roofed in 1978, thus removing all the shingles. The original roof was galvanized tin shingles, there is a shingle framed and hanging in the minister’s office.

Enough money has been donated by church members that on November 6,1978 the Building and Grounds Committee signed an order for pew cushions at a cost of $1,548.00 and will be covered in red velvet, which matches the drape in front of choir loft.

A two car garage has been built at the manse.

One quarter inch plate glass is to be placed on the Communion table to protect cloths and table.

The mortgage at both banks (First National and First Alabama) were paid off February 9, 1979 on the Educational Building. The roof on the Educational Building also was replaced.

Renovation of the Sanctuary in 1979 resulted in new ceiling of sheet rock, with decorative wood beams and light fixtures, walls repainted and carpet cleaned. Wayne Lumpkin will make the stained glass memorial windows for the choir loft. The cross in the choir loft will be framed. A re-dedication ceremony of the Sanctuary was held on December 2, 1979. The building committee consisted of: Howard Kooiman, Carl Flynn, Gene Chambers, Mimi Yarbro, Lynn Terry, Dick Day, Jim Yarbro, Roy Rollings, Cassie Rollings, Dan Bolon and Alona Miller.

October 19, 1979 The First Presbyterian Church of Guntersville, Alabama was placed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage. The Alabama Register “is a prestigious listing of historic, architectural and archeological landmarks...worthy of both recognition and restoration,” Jeanette E. Barrett, acting director of the Historical Commission, said in a letter to the church.

The Historical Commission had this to say about the building:

“Because of the basic, unaltered form of the church building and its relationship to the early history of the community, this church is worthy of recognition.

“The Church is an example of Classic Revival Architecture. The one story brick structure has a full basement of stone. The symmetrical cross-shaped plan is based on a Roman pattern. The building has a hipped roof with a projecting gable on each arm of the cross. The roofline has a plain entablature with boxed cornices with dentil trim the tympanums feature a leaf design.

“The three bay facade has a pedimented protico with four fluted doric columns. The center double doors with twelve small

panels is topped with a rounded arched stained glass window. The entrance is flanked by stained glass windows topped with a rounded arch window and a projecting corbel.

“The interior walls are smooth plaster with a beaded board wainscoting with cap molding. With the exception of the addition of a celotex tile ceiling, the stained glass windows and air conditioning, the building is unchanged since construction.

W.O.C. contributed $500.00 to help reduce indebtedness of the church in October 1981.

In 1982 it was decided that there would be a breakfast following Easter Sunrise Service in the Fellowship Hall. Billy and Cassie Rollings and Carl and Doris Flynn are to cook the breakfast. They cooked the breakfast for 19 years.

In 1982 Alice Brown and Martha Bradford donated 3 bookcase sections to the church.

On the 26th day of February, 1984, the Congregation of the First Presbyterian Church of Guntersville, Alabama, voted to act on Section G-8.0701 (claiming exemptions) of the Book of Order, and particularly Sections G-8.0501 entitled “Selling, Encumbering, Church Property” and Section G-8.0502 “Leasing Church Property”.

A Needlepoint Tapestry depicting the old Presbyterian Seal (USA) has been started in memory of Robert Michael Rutland, Sr. This is being donated by his family. Dedication of this tapestry was July 8, 1984

Repairs to the portico columns of the Sanctuary Building are in progress.(These columns had to be replaced due to an accident to the front of the church at a later date).

Rev. Roy Miller suffered a heart attack on December 5, 1984 and had 5 heart by-passes.

The choir received new choir robes, purchased with money from the memorial fund.

For the first time in the history of the First Presbyterian Church of Guntersville, Alabama, two women elders were elected at a congregational meeting on January 5, 1986. They were: Leila Mae

(Mrs. Howard) Kooiman and Mildred Bell (Mimi) (Mrs. Jim) Yarbro.

The old mimeograph was retired and a new Cannon Copy Machine was purchased.

April 14, 1986 - Rev. Roy Miller read his letter of resignation at the session meeting, stating he is retiring because of health problems.

At 1:45 a.m. Thursday, May 1, 1986 a truck ran into the front of the church and tore down and crushed a column and pushed in the wall under the front window on the South side of the front door. The truck left the scene of the accident under its own power. Harvey Jones, an architect in Huntsville, Alabama and Chorba Contracting of Guntersville, Alabama were hired to put the building back in its original condition.

A beautiful lace cover for the Communion table to cover the elements was given by Mary Clyde (Mrs. John) Wilson.

In 1987, renovation of the basement took place. The minister’s office was moved to the South side of the basement making the office larger, book shelves were built on wall. Old minister’s office was made into the Choir room. Secretary’s office was left where it was. A frame was of wood covered the iron posts that were used for supports in the foyer and in the parlor. They were painted and are very attractive.

May 10, 1987 - a congregational meeting was called to act on the report of the pulpit nominating committee. Curry Davis was called and assumed duties in mid-June. He was ordained and installed July 19, 1987.

In 1989 Martha Bradford and Alice Bradford Brown deeded lots 38 and 40 in Block 5, on corner of Greenwood Street and Gunter Avenue to the church for a parking lot.

Candle holders were made for the memorial and in honor candles that are used at Easter and Christmas. The holders fit on top of the rail on each side of the pulpit, also candle cups of different heights fit into them. These were made and given by Carl and Doris Flynn.

Concrete walkways were poured from Greenwood Street to Educational Building and from the retaining wall by the sanctuary to the Educational Building, this was given by Martha Bradford and Alice Bradford Brown

Tookie (Mrs. Wayne) Adkison painted the mural on the wall in the nursery.

A speaker system for the Sanctuary is to be installed before July 18, 1989.

Curry Davis accepted a call from another church that was effective September 1, 1989.

Rev. Bill Kaylor was approved by North Alabama Presbytery as Interim Pastor until we call a full time minister.

In February 1990, the Session thanked Reverend Bill Kaylor for his work and completion of the Wall Hanging brochure.

On June 24, 1990, the First Presbyterian Church of Guntersville, Alabama celebrated its first 100 years. At the centennial the cornerstone was opened (empty), followed by the morning worship service, a luncheon was served. In the afternoon a Service of Remembrance with a reception following. The ministers who took part in the celebration were: Rev. Bill Kaylor, Rev. Roy Milller, Rev. Robert Crumby, Rev. Walter Zenah, Rev. Bill Hart, Rev. John Sadler, Rev. Houston Hodges, Rev. Curry Davis.

Commerative plates with the picture of the church was made and sold. A framed picture of this plate hangs in the foyer of the basement.

A congregational meeting was called December 16, 1990 to extend a call to John Wesley Brock to be our minister. Wesley Brock and family were greeted as the new minister at the January Church-nite supper. He was installed February 24, 1991.

The patio at the manse was replaced with a deck. Folding doors were placed between the living room and dining room of the manse.

Reverend Brock asked Carl Flynn to make a eight foot tall cross to be used in the sanctuary during Lent. This cross was made of Western Cedar.

A new Wurlitzer Organ for the Sanctuary was purchased, a dedication service for the new organ and service honoring Mrs. Anita B. Lusk (Mrs. Marion) was held October 11, 1992. Mrs. Lusk

has served faithfully as our organist for over 40 years.

A new organ bench was needed for the comfort of getting on and off the bench due to space. Carl Flynn made a new oak bench for the organ.

A new heating and cooling unit was installed in the basement of the sanctuary to make the offices comfortable. (1993)

The memorial Rose Garden was started by Ben Shafer in memory of his wife Madge Shafer. The Rose Garden was placed just south of the walkway to the Educational Building.

Bernice (Mrs. O. L.) Majure was given an Honorary Life Membership to the Women of the Presbyterian Church, in November 1994.

A new heating and cooling unit replaced the old unit in the first floor of the Educational Building (1994).

Special Service to replace the cornerstone opening was held May 14, 1995. Data had been gathered and placed in the cornerstone.

A tile ramp to make church accessible to handicap people was laid at the front entrance of the sanctuary. A sprinkler system was installed and new hand rails from walk to Educational Building.

Mrs. Roberta (Mrs. Harry, Sr.) Rutland was given an Honorary Life Membership to the Women of the Presbyterian Church, in October 1996.

In 1997, walkway lights were installed on the walkway rail to Ed. Building. Also a new heating and cooling unit replaced the old unit for the sanctuary. A new step up to the podium built and boxing

in of duct work in basement of sanctuary completed.

In 1998 the ladies are to pay for refurnishing the parlor and the church will cover all remodeling and repair cost.

In 1999 new counter tops were put on the counters in the kitchen in the Fellowship Hall. New oak cabinets and counter top were added to the little kitchen in basement of the sanctuary.

Leila Mae (Mrs. Howard) Kooiman was awarded an Honorary Life Membership to the Presbyterian Women of the Presbyterian Church, in March 1999.

New Paraments were purchased by the Ross family in memory of Buddy Ross. Received an ice maker for the kitchen from Mary Kate Beard. A Communion Set was given in memory of Kathleen and T. S. Stribling by Tommy Stribling.

A new cloth for the Communion Table was purchased from the memorial fund.

In November 2000, a Memorial Window for Howard Kooiman, was installed in the North end of the foyer in the Educational Building. The window is etched with the Presbyterian Seal.

The first Scholarship award was given in 2000 to Rob Dandridge for $2,500.

A Steinway piano was given for the Sanctuary in memory of Owen Couch, by his brother, Dr. Robert Couch.

In 2001, Memorial Boards were placed in the Sanctuary made by Carl Flynn. Lamar Majure donated the new front doors to the sanctuary in memory of Mr. and Mrs. O. L. Majure.

In 2001 another Scholarship was awarded to Sarah Cheon.

Amanda and John East, Betsey and W. S. Adams were to prepare the breakfast after Easter Sunrise Service carrying on the tradition.

In 2002 a new heating and cooling unit replaces the old one in the kitchen of the Fellowship Hall. The sanctuary received new carpet and the pulpit chairs recovered.

Dana Reed and William Whiddom (Bevel) received this years scholarship awards.

The church hosted the July 16, 2002 meeting of North Alabama Presbytery.

Tragedy struck the church on the morning of January 3, 2003, when Reverend Wesley Brock was found dead in the manse by his wife, Anna, of a massive heart attack. The church and community suffered a great loss.

31

REGISTER OF PASTORS AND STATED SUPPLIES

1890 - 2005

Benjamin F. Bedinger SS 1890-1896

John Snowden Wood SS 1896-1897

Kenneth Alexander Campbell P 1900-1905

John Gibson Reneley SS 1905-1906

Geo. Calvin Alexander SS 1906-1907

Wm. Franklin Harris SS 1910-1911

Frank Ernest Rogers SS 1913-

H. C. Kegley 1916-1917

Eli Franklin Griffith P 1923-1924

W. E. (Early) Crane P 1925-1927

Louis J. Yelanjian P 1927-1930

J. E. Hickson SS 1931-1932

Stewart Holderners Long SS 1932-1933

R. E. Stanley SS 1934-1935

Wm. Kennedy Blake P 1935-1938

David Burr Gregory P 1941-1944

Wm. D. Hart P 1944-1954

Earnest Mellor, Jr. P 1955-1957

John Rhea Hall P 1958-1963

Robert Henry Crumby P 1963-1969

Richard A. Cushman P 1969-1975

Walter M. Zenah SS 1975-1977

Roy Melvin Miller P 1977-1986

Curry W. Davis, Jr. P 1987-1989

William J. Kaylor SS 1989-1991

John Wesley Brock P 1991-2003

Stuart T. Wilson Interim 2003-2004

William McWeeny Interim 2004-2004

Walter Scott Jeffreys P 2004-

ELDERS - - - Date of first election

Due to the small membership and wane times of the church, Elders were not elected every year - then some were reelected - thus the skips in dates.

.

R. M Reives 1893

J. A. Lusk 1893

R. M. Hugman 1906

John W. Fricke 1913

F. B. Albert 1917

D. B. McCullough 1929

S. K. Yarbrough 1932

D. G. Henderson, Sr. 1932

E. W. Crabtree, Sr. 1932

R. M. Fricke 1933

T. W. Throckmorton 1942

L. T. Sullivan 1942

O. L. Majure 1942

Robert H. Hovis 1947

M. F. Lusk 1948

Paul H. Bubeck 1954

J. S. Stone 1956

Charles Lambert 1956

W. B. Clark 1959

A. L. Burdette 1961

John A. Lynch 1963

Vernon Riddle 1964

Percy Lee 1964

Curtis De Lamar 1965

Howard Taylor 1965

Joel Williams 1965

H. M. Rutland, Sr. 1966

Dan Bolon 1968

Howard Kooiman 1969

Carl Flynn 1969

E. E. Chambers 1970

W. E. Cornelius 1971

George Simcox 1972

Oliver Conley 1974

James Yarbro 1974

Harry Rutland, Jr. 1975

Charles Griffith 1975

Bill Meeks 1975

Billy Rollings 1976

Frank Sanders 1977

W. S. Adams, Jr. 1978

Andy Lee 1979

Terry Malone 1980

Dave Davis 1982

Wayne Adkison 1982

Billy Griffith 1984

John Wilson 1984

Robert Bean 1984

Roy Dean Rollings 1985

James Walker 1985

Chris Reed 1986

Dick Day 1986

Steve Henderson 1986

Leila Mae Kooiman 1986

Mimi Yarbro 1986

Betsey Adams 1988

Rex Marchman 1989

Charline McGee 1989

Mark Kate Beard 1991

J. O. House 1991

Rowe Hall 1993

Everett Nelson (Elected elder posthumously 1993)

Linda Marchman 1994

Virginia Walker 1994

Bill Savelle 1995

Lois Nelson 1995

Carl Ward 1995

Dick Baugh 1997

Russell Fulton 1977

Evelyn (Lady) Kaylor 1997

Randall Rush 1997

Myra Rollings 1998

Franklin Bevel 1998

Larry Pack 1998

Kathy Ledford 2000

Melissa Word 2000

Mary Lou Griffith 2001

Curt Quigley 2001

Louise Sewell 2001

Paul Brown 2002

Shay Griggs 2002

Nancy Ross Hindman 2002

John East 2003

David Edwards 2004

Michael Rutland 200