USA > Alabama > Dallas County > Selma > History of the Valley Creek Presbyterian Church, Selma, Alabama > Part 4
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Deacons 18. Elders 26. Pastors 17.
Mellwain Mission.
This little band of worshippers assemble together at the school house twice a month to worship, the services are con- ducted under the auspicies of the Valley Creek Church. Sun- day School was organized there on the first Sunday in January 1909 with J. M. Gilmer, Superintendent and Claud Williams, Assistant Superintendent. A few years back at different times a school was taught at Valley Creek in the basement by Miss. Nettie Irwin, Miss Ernestine Irwin and Miss Nathilie Cloud. This church has been the sheltering place of many scenes, many of joy and many of sorrow. The dead have passed beneath her columns, the saddened processions have passed her portals following onto the grave. The bride in her beauty, in her sun- shine of joy has stood at the altar.
The century is almost at its close.
A sadness falls from the wings of my thoughts, 1
Perhaps some kindness has been omitted
Or perhaps some deed unwrought.
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Roll From the Organization Though Not Perfect.
Deacons .- John C. McNair, Sam B. Pickens, Jas. E. Mor- rison, Sr., Milton R. Boggs, Wm. J. A. Russell, Geo. C. Phillips Robt. W. Morrison, R. Russel Carothers, R. Howard Jones, Thomas Kenan, Chas. F. Irwin, W. J. Rountree, W. E. Callen, J. E. Morrison, Jr., Wm. Russel Jones.
Elders .- Wm. Morrison, Robt. Morrison, David Russel, Enoch Morgan, Benj. A. Glass, John Russell, Sam H. N. Dick- son, Ira Sterdevant, Sam B. Pickens, John N. Taggart, Jas. A. Blair, John Johnson, Josiah Alexander, James E. Morrison, Sr., James Kenan, G. M. Callen, Virgil Irwin, R. W. Morrison, Wm. M. Carothers, Wm. J. A. Morrison, Wm. J. Waugh, John M. Carothers, A. L. Gilmer, R. Howard Jones, R. M. Roun- tree, D. B. McMillan.
Members.
Mrs. Mary A. Alexander, Josiah Alexander, Elizabeth Alex- ander, Wm. B. Alexander, James S. Alexander, R. W. Arn- strong, Mrs. Lawrence Armstrong, Mrs. Ella (B. Alexander, Mrs. Pollie H. Alexander, Andrew 'M. Boggs, James A. Blair, Mrs. Josephene Barnett, Lettie A. Boggs, Malinda Boggs Lecon- tia Boggs, Margrette A. Blair, Mrs. Ada Barrow, Sarah A. Blair, Lucindia E. Boggs, Mrs. L. O. Bruce, Susan R. Boggs, Mrs. Mary I. Beatie, Mary A. Barnett, Wm. M. Boggs,, Louisa Boggs, Mrs. Martha Boggs, Mary Alice Boggs, Levere Bevard, Mary H. Baker, Joe E. Bristo, Nancy Callen, Mary Crawford, Matil- da Cothran, Sarah O. Callen, Eliza WJ. Cothran, Mrs. Amy I. Cole, G. M. Callen, Mrs. Elizabeth Callen, L. A. Callen, Mrs. Fanny Callen, E. P. Cothran, George Cothran, R. C. Callen, Ellen C. Callen, Mary Culverhouse, Rev. W. W. Carothers. Mrs. Mary Carothers, W. M. Carothers, Mrs. Phebe Carothers, J. L. Carothers, John M. Carothers, P. R. Carothers, Robert B. Callen, Mary A. Callen, Mrs. Jennie Callen, Sadler Carothers, Milton W. Carothers, Mrs. Ann Carothers, Mrs. J. M. Carothers, Ada L. Callen, Hamilton Harris Callen, W. E. Callen, Mrs. Mat- tie L. Callen, J. T. Chancy, Mrs. E. R. Doak, Saba Doak, Florine
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Doak, Mrs. Cathrine Glass, Mrs. Jane M. Gunn, Miss Flora Gilmer, Mrs. C. J. Gilmer, John Green, Maggie Green, Edward Gilmer, Mrs. Mary J. Henry, Elizah M. Hornbeak, Frances Hooks, Benj. C. Harrison, Ellie B. Hudson, Gracie C. Hudson, H. S. Hudson, Mrs. James R. Irwin, Elizabeth C. John- son, Wm. S. Johnson, Alonzo Irwin, Mrs. Mary Irwin, J. Col- well Johnson, Mary A. Johnson, Virgil Irwin, Annetta C. John- son, A. Lunetta Johnson, Mary E. Johnson, Mrs. M. Johnson, John Johnson, Mrs. Delia Johnson, Eugenia D. Johnson, F. L. Johnson, Mrs. Martha Johnson, Georgia E. Johnson, Mrs. M. E. Irwin, R. H. Jones, Chas. F. Irwin, E. P. Irwin, Lilly F. Irwin, Wm. Russell Jones, Vida M. Jones, Sadie Jeanette Jones, Julia S. Kenan, Catharine Kenan, Mrs. M. E. King, James Kenan, Owen Kenan, Mrs. M. E. Kenan, Daniel L. Kenan, Mrs. D. i .. Kenan, Mrs. A. M. Luther, Mrs. Mary P. McIlwain, Mrs. M. R. Mollwain, Mrs. Nancy Morrison, Robert W. Morrison, J. JI. Mollwain, Jas. E. Morrison, Mrs. C. A. Morrison, Rebecca Mor- rison, Emma |J. Riggs, 'Mrs. Georgia Morrison, Wm. J. Morri- son, Robt. C. Morrison, Mary E. Morgan, Katy A. Morrison, Clifford Morrison, Wm. Eugene Morrisn, Robt. Wiley Morrison, W. E. Morgan, Lelia Morgan, D. M. McMillan, Mrs. D. M. Mc- Millian, M. H. Morrison, James E. Morrison, Lizzie Moore, Wn :. J. Mellwain, Mrs. Mary McIlwain, S. P. McIlwain, Mrs. Mary R. Mcllwain, Lizzie McIlwain, Mrs. H. E. McClure, Rev. H. E. MaClure, Annabel McIlwain, Mrs. Martha Pickens, J. B. Phi !- lips, Robt. E. Osborne, Sarah E. Phillips, Miss Leo Phillips, Mrs. Adaline Phillips, Prudence Phillips, N. Wilson Phillips, George C. Phillips, Miss E. R. Phillips, Louise S. Phillips, Isabel Phillips, George Phillips, Kate Willetta Osborne, Nannie Phil- lips, Robt. J. Osborne, Wm. G. Privett, Mrs. Rebecca Roller, Mrs. Mary Rice, Mrs. Sarah E. Rountree, W. J. A. Russell, Mary P. Russell, Ella C. Russell, F. A. Rodgers, Parilla B. Roller, A. McD. Roller, S. Jennie Russell, Mrs. Jane Rus- sell, lda C. Riggs, Mrs. Mary C. Roller, Albert S. Riggs, Junius W. Riggs, Wm. Rodgers, Wm. Roller, R. M. Rountree, Mrs. Mattie Rountree, Jimmie Rountree, W. J. Rountree, Mrs. Ann
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Shackelford, Julia C. Smith, Alice Shaw, Wm. H. Strider, Dr. R. W. Stafford, Carmelia Stafford, Willie A. Strider, Mary E. Tate, Geo. W. Tate, John E. Tate, Mary Tate, Edna Tate, Mrs. Martha Watson, John Waugh, Mrs. Louise Waugh, Mollie Waugh, Etta Waugh, Albert H. Waugh, 'Mrs. Lula R. Waugh, Wm. J. Waugh, Geo. A. Werline, Mary P. Williams, Mrs. Frances Tappy, Miss Adella Grimes, Miss Helen Hudson.
The Roll as Revised in Feb., 1907 With Added Members.
James Alexander, Mrs. P. H. Alexander, Maggie Blair, Abby Blair, Mrs. F. A. Bradshaw, Mrs. C. C. Bradshaw, W. W. Bell, Mrs. E. J. Bell, Archie Bell, Mrs. Eliza Coth- ran, Mrs. Mary Carothers, Russell R. Carothers, Walton Callen, Mrs. Walton Callen, Mrs. Russel Carothers, Mrs. John Campbell, Mrs. Julia Fythia, Flora Gilmer, A. L. Gilmer, Ed- ward Gilmer, Mrs. Flora Gillis, Ida Gillis, Ernest Gillis, Mary Emma Gillis Harvey Gillis, Miss S. Gillis, Lilly Irwin, C. F. Irwin, Ernestine Irwin, Lewis Irwin, E. P. Irwin, R. H. Jones, Mrs. Mary P. Jones, Wm. Russel Jones, Mrs. Wm. Russel Jones, Veida M. Jones, Jeanette S. Jones, Ella C. Jones, Emma Jones, G. C. Johnson, Mr. Dan L. Kenan, Mrs. Dan L. Kenan, Mrs. Thos. G. Kenan, Mr. Thos. G. Kenan, Owen Kenan, Mrs. Geor- gia Morrson, Mary E. Morgan, Lela Morgan, Mrs. Ida Morgan, C. P. Morrison, R. W. 'Morrison, J. E. Morrison, D. B. McMillan, Mrs. D. B. McMillan, Willetta Morgan, Mrs. Maggie 'McIlwain, Mrs. Mary R. McIlwain, Pinckney McIlwain, Robert Osborne, Mrs. Lenora Privett, Miss E. R. Phillips, Miss I. P. Phillips. Crawford Phillips, Willie Privett, Mrs. Sarah E. Rountree, Ella C. Russell Rill Roller, Robt. M. Rountree, Mrs. R. M. Roun- tree, Jas. Rountree, Mrs. Jas. Rountree, Mrs. Maud Rountree, Rev. J. D. Rountree, W. J. Rountree, Mrs. Emma J. Riggs, Wm. H. Strider, Mrs. George Strider, Edna Tate, Mrs. Jennie Waugh Swift, Marion Woods, Mrs. Anna Bell Woods, M. C. Gillis, Roderick Gillis, Katie Gillis, Willie Gillis, Alric Gillis, Mrs. Latham and Son, Mr. Latham, Mrs. Little, Mr. Little, Mr. Nichols, Mrs. Nichols, Lizzie iggs, J. M. Batte, Idyllette E. Batte, Mary Ruth Batte, Marguerette E. Batte, Junius LeeRoy
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Batte, Roy Morgan, John Morgan, Louis Morgan, Miss Dicy Jackson.
There are a few on the above roll who are dead and a few have moved their membership elsewhere.
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First Presbyterian Church, Selma, Alabama.
This church was organized December 22, 1838 by Revs. F. H. Porter and T. S. Witherspoon of the Presbytery of South Alabama. The names of sixteen members were enrolled as follows:
Roderick McLeod, Mrs. Mary McLeod, David Hamilton, Mrs. Mary W. Hamilton, Robert A. Nicoll, David C. Russell, James D. Monk, Robt. H. W. Bigger, Mrs. Catherine Hunter, Mrs. Martha Lawrence, Mrs. Sarah Gant, Mrs. Isabella Porter, Jacob, a servant of Rev. F. H. Porter, G. M. Ormond, Mrs. Mary W. Nicoll, Miss Isabella Talbot.
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Of these members, three; David C. Russell, Giles M. Or- mand and Robert A. Nicholl were duly elected and ordained as ruling elders. On January 13th, 1839, Robert A. Nicholl was chosen the first stated clerk of the session. The infant church remained eighteen months without a pastor, being supplied from time to time by Revs. F. H. Porter, Robert Nall and J. 13. King and the membership was more than doubled during their Ministrations.
Pastors.
Rev. William Frederick McRee was first pastor, he was a graduate of Princeton Seminary, was recommended to the church by Dr. A. Alexander. After supplying the plupit for a time was elected pastor January 4, 1840, he resigned in 1844.
Second Pastor .- Rev. Richard B. Cater D. D., becanie stated supply, in 1845 was installed the third Sabbath in Feb- ruary 1847. The church grew in membership and influence under Dr. Cater, he died November 24, 1850.
Rev. Abner A. Porter, D. D., began his labor in the church in September 1851, was installed in 1853, April 24th. Dr. Portor remained with the church during a long and useful pastorate. The last two years of his pastorate Dr. Porter was in ill health, the pulpit was supplied part of the time by Rev. P. Calhoun and the remainder of the time by Rev. J. T. Arni- sted. Dr. Porter resigned October 1860.
Rev. Arthur W. Small took charge of the church Novem- ber 1860, was installed April 1861. Mr. Small was pastor during the trying times of the civil war, nobly and faithfully did he fill the duties of his office. He was killed in the battle of Selma, April 2, 1865.
Rev. W. J. Lowry, D. D., was called to the vacant pas- torate November 4, 1866. Dr. Lowry's pastorate was long and successful. A flourishing mission was started in East Sel- ma which developed into Alabama Street Presbyterian church, January 12, 1873. Thirty persons from this church were gran- ted letters to join Alabama Street Church. Dr. Lowry resigned in the fall of 1875.
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Rev. Alfred J. Morrison took charge of the church as sup- ply January 1, 1876, fifty persons were added to the commu- nion before his untimely death July 6, 1876.
Rev. Thos. W. Hooper, D. D., was elected pastor Noven- ber 6. 1876 installed Decmber 3, 1876. Dr. Hoopers' patoraie was one of the longest in the history of the church, after a service of twelve faithful years of labor he resigned June 1888.
Dr. E. O. Guerrant visited the field in the spring of 1889 but the Presbytery refused to grant its consent for him to leave Kentucky.
Rev. Russell Cecil was then called to the pastorate, he took charge May 19, was installed November 1889.
Dr. A. A. Little came to this pastorate 1901, he was a greatly beloved man. The church greatly prospered under his rule, it was a great sorrow to the church when his resignation was presented to the congregation. Dr. Little resigned in the summer of 1908 and accepted a call in Georgia. The church is at present without an installed pastor, but is being supplied by different divines. Dr. Mebane, of North Carolina has been with this church for a few Sundays. Rev. Daniel J. Curry, of Dublin, Virginia is now supplying the pulpit.
Sunday School.
The pioneers in this branch of the church work, as far as we can learn were David C. Russell and Amos H. Lloyd. Mr. Russell was the first Superintendent, he was followed succes- sively in the office by P. L. Sink, James W. Lapsley, N. D). Cross, James H. Franklin and S. D. Holt. The present Super- intendent is Mr. Foot Hooper, a man much beloved and admir- ed. The first structure ever used by the Presbyterians of Selma, was on Water Street near Lauderdale. The next on
the corner of Dallas and Washington streets. Another buil- ding was erected in 1847 costing about $1,500, it was remod- eled and improved in 1868 at an expense of $1,200. About twelve years ago the present handsome building was erected. This church is in a thriving, growing condition.
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Societies.
The Ladies Benevolent and Foreign Missionary Society is the oldest organization of the kind in the church, has existed since 1851.
Ladies' Home and Foreign Mission Society.
Young Ladies Society.
Childrens' Missionary Society.
Junior Missionary Society.
The Covenantors.
This church has sent out a number of ministers, namely: Rev. W. P. Armstrong, Rev. P. A. Lapsley, Rev. Jas. Laps- ley, Mr. John Axford is now at the Seminary, preparatory to the Ministry. This church has in Africa one of its old members, C. A. DeYampert, a colored Missionary who was sent from this church and is supported by it, he having been a member.
List of Elders from Organization 1838.
'David C. Russell, Giles M. Ormond, Robt. A. Nicoll, Jas. B. Harrison, Thomas Smith, Philip Weaver, E. W. Marks, Jas. M. Lapsley, Wm. H. Fellows, Jas. W. Lapsley, J. J. Porter, R. R. Morey, T. P. Gary, R. W. Huston, Jos. Hardie, Ed. Woods, Wim. P. Armstrong, Robt. Lapsley, H. L. McKee, C. W. Hooper, J. H. Franklin, S. F. Hobbs, C. F. Force, W. B. Gill,, W. R. Nelson, IJ. R. Kenan, S. D. Holt, Golsby King, R. H. Agee, J. F. Hooper, F. E. Gary, E. H. Hobbs, J. F. Hooper, George Phil- lips, P. H. Pitts.
Deacons From Organization.
John F. Conoly, Jas. D. Monk, David Hamilton, Thos. L. Craig, J. W. Lapsley, Jos. Hardie, H. M. Holman, J. J. Porter, Robt. Lapsley, M. R. Boggs, Ed. Woods, N. D. Cross, C. W. Hooper, M. J. Williams, W. P. Armstrong, J. H. Franklin, S. F. Hobbs, W. R. Nelson, J. P. Paisley, Geo. Phillips, A. E. Baker, Cornelius Young, C. F. Force, John C. Graham, J. W. Love, T. P. Gary, W. F. Layman, J. R. Kenan, J. A. Chancy, D. A. Kennedy, Goldsby King, R. H. Agee, E. H. Hobbs, R. W. Huston, J. E. Axford, W. H. Phillips, W. S. Monk, P. H. Pitts, J. J. Hooper, W. T. Atkins, L. M. Hooper, W. W. Harper, C. Kirkpatrick, Wm. Cummin, Eugene Morrison, L. A. Moone, P. T. Shanks, John Paisley, W. B. Gill.
Alabama Street Presbyterian Church.
A Mission Sunday School was organized by Joseph Hardie and H. L. McKee, ruling elders in the First Presbyterian Church Selma, during the year July 21, 1872, in that part of the city of Selma, known as East Selma in a little room rented for the purpose with three scolars, Miss Emma McArthur, Miss Annie Scurry (Mrs. Connel) and Edward S. Gatchell. Thus began a great work. The surroundings at first were humble and crude, it was seated with old benches from the First Church, a small organ was soon afterwards introduced. Neither of the teachers, Major Hardie or Mr. McKee at that time could raise a tune, even Old Hundred might have been merged into Duke Street or Rockingham before the third line was reached. This fortunately did not last long. On July 28, four other persons were added to the roll. Mr. Charles Lar- dent, Geo. Lardent, Miss Minnie Lardent and Miss Annie McArthur. Mr. Wm. Henry Houston, an elder from Pisgah Church joined in the work. The third Sunday August 4, four others were added to the roll. Miss Bettie Harrison, (Mrs. Rogers) Miss Mary Harrison, (Mrs. Hull) Frank Kelton and Mrs. Annie E. Dennis. On this date Mr. William Wallace uni- ted in the work and proved a faithful worker.
It is a matter worth recording that in the beginning of
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the enterprise there was doubt in the minds of those whom the helpers sought out, as to the motive that prompted such action and it was with difficulty that their doubts were dis- sipated, for but few of those living in this part of the city had predilections towards the Presbyterian Church. In the outset a thorugh canvass was made by Major Hardie and Mr. McKee in all the vicinity of the chapel with cards of invitation and by personal interview they sought to bring those who had no church connection into this work. While at the first it was slow, the seed sown was soon made manifest and the school grew rapidly and by early Autumn fifty names were enrolled.
Connected with this early work are many interesting inci- dents, which if told would fill a volume, for the work led work- ers into homes over whose threshold no Christian man or wo- man for this purpose had been. One, a German woman, and in the Old Country highly connected, and who by marriage had brought the frowns of parents upon her, was found in a des- titute condition and she with her young daughter were cared for and the latter brought into Sunday School. The poor woman who had earned her living, such as it was, by for- tune telling, at once burned her cards and gave her heart to the Savior amd fixed her hope on heaven. The daughter grew to fine womanhood and now fills an honored station in a near city.
Many incidents of interest could be told of the early his- tory of this church work. The increase in the work and the interest in the attendance required more facilities and these were promptly furnished. In December 1872 a meeting was begun in the chapel, conducted by the Rev. John T. McBryde, who at the time was acting as assistant to the pastor of the First. Church, and it was continued through the holidays and until January 12, 1873. when the Rev. James Watson, the Evangelist of the Presbytery proceeded to organize a church, as the outgrowth of less than six months work. Elder Jos. Hardie and H. L. McKee were elders in the First Church at the time; and Mr. C. S. Crane from the same church were
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shosen elders and William Wallace as deacon, and some thirty- three members formed the organization. The last of the month the Rev. Peter Gowan from Charleston Presbytery made a visit to the church, then organized and was soon afterwards called as a pastor. The Chapel became too small and inconve- nient and a building suitable was projected. Friends to the movement were found and the money furnished with which to build the new church. The site being a gift of Mrs. Weaver. Sept. 30, 1875 Rev. W. J. Lowry, pastor of the First Church dedicated the new building. The membership now continued to grow.
Early in the work there came three persons who through its instrumentality became ministers of the gospel, namely: Phillip Bohbeck, Julius P. Word and Lawrence M. Hensell. A little later there was added two others who became active members of the school. Wm. H. Raymond, of Marion, who united with the church on his removal to Selma and John R. MoAlpine, of Talladega, who also became a minister of the gospel. Not only these who identified themselves as members of the church but others from the First Church and some who were here without a fixed habitation joined in the Sunday School work. Two of these became while yet teachers in the Sunday School candidates for the ministry and afterwads were ordained as such. The one Rev. J. W. Walden and the other, H. R. Raymond, Jr. Mr. Walden still lives and has distin- guished himself in the Southern Church. Mr. Raymond after some years in the ministry died. It is to be noted here that from the teachers of this school six persons have gone into the ministry with no less than six years after its organization. At least five of the six gave as their reason for seeking the ministry the influence of the surroundings and an example in the field thus occupied. Mr. H. L. McKee filled the place of Superintendent of Sabbath School for thirteen years with W. H. Raymond succeeding and James H. Franklin and E. S. Gatchell. The present Superintendent, G. F. Warner. Assistant Superintendent; Marshall Metz, Secretary; Miss Lola Whitman Assistant Secretary, Miss Ola Latham; Treasurer J. E. Morrow.
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Pastors of Alabama Street Church.
Rev. P. Gowan was installed May 1873: Rev. G. W. Boggs pastor of Valley Creek Church was chairman and preached the sermon and charged the people. Rev. W. J. Lowry deliv- ered the charge to the pastor. His pastorate continued thir- teen years.
Rev. G. E. Chandler was installed pastor, November 1887.
Rev. W. D. Spurlin preached the sermon. Rev. R. A. Lapsley charged the pastor and Rev. C. D. Waller charged the people. Rev. A. S. Doak, Rev. L. G. Hames both popular pas- tors. Rev. T. R. Best was next called to the pastorate.
The Present pastor, Rev. E. B. Robinson began his work as pastor March 1, 1906. Mr. Robinson is a young enthusi- astic and much beloved pastor. He has done much for the good of the church during his pastorate. He had not been in the work but a few months when a movement was started for building a new structure, the little frame church on Range Avenue became too small to accommodate the growing congre- gation. July 1906 the movement was started, in July 1907 the reality was being realized, the beautiful building which is located on Range Avenue'and Alabama Streets was being built and it was completed about January 1908, costing froni $10,000 to $12,000. Mr. Robinson should have much of the praise for the success of such a handsome building and the members look upon it with pride for it is indeed a monument to their work for the Master's Kingdom.
Ruling Elders From Organization.
Joseph Hardie, H. L. McKee, C. S. Crane, Wm. M. Waller, W. H. Raymond, R. R. Morey, J. H. Barr, G. F. Warner, E. A. Buhler, J. H. Franklin, W. Adams, E. S. Gatchell, L. W. Hub- bard, J. Stephenson, J. W. Preston, H. Harthan.
Deacons.
W. M. Wallace, J. P. Word, W. H. Raymond, J. S. Fythie, J. R. McAlpine, W. G. Self, J. T. Owen, E. A. Buhler, Hugh Foster, L. W. Hubbard, J. H. Barr, Edwin Hull, H. Harthan,
REV. E. B. ROBINSON
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S. B. Shivers, E. P. Lewis, A. E. Baker, Jr., W. B. Harris, J. A. Stephenson, Wm. M. Messenger, D. D. Baker, Jas. S. Newell, J. L. Rhodes, J. S. O'Gwynn, J. W. Eakin, J. R. Smith, Marshall Metz, C. W. Brazelton, J. T. Owens.
I have secured some of my historical points from an early history written by Mr. H. L. McKee, who was an elder in this church, he is now Superintendent of "Our Orphan's Home" Talladega, Alabama.
We shall consider the following churches to have sprung directly or indirectly from th eValley Creek organiza- tion. Mount Pleasant, Vine Hill, Stanton and Plantersville.
Mount Pleasant Church.
Sustains rather a mixed relation to Valley Creek. She is a daughter at the same time a sister. The record's of early years were burned a few years ago, when deacon Ed. Mor- row's residence was burned, he being the clerk of session. His Widow Mrs. Callie Morrow gave us the following informa- tion, having heard her parents and grand-parents so often relate the story in her childhood. The colony which organized Valley Creek Church when they settled in Alabama, divided and some settled in Mount Pleasant neighborhood, about nine miles north from Valley Creek Church. A few years later, in 1823, Rev. Sloss, the pastor of Valley Creek Church together with a few of her members and a number of the colony who had not identified themselves with Valley Creek, organized Mount Pleasant Church.
She has stood the storms of many years, during the eigh- ty-six years of her past life, she has always had some good faithful members who have been diligent about the "Father's Business," and through the reverses as well as the prosperity she has always faithfully held up the banner of the cross. A multitude have been spiritually born within her walls. She now has a membership of about sixty-one and also a flourish - ing Sabbath School. She has five ruling elders and three deacons.
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Vine Hill Church.
Is a grand-daughter of Valley Creek, September 13, 1879. The Revs. J. W. Hooper and Peter Gowan, the commission 1;) . pointed by the Presbytery of South Alabama to organize Vivo Hill Church, met with the people of the church and organize:l with the members who were dismissed from the First Church, Selma and two whom the Commission receive 1 on profession of faith in Christ. The charter members were as follows:
Mrs. Agnes Norvill, Mrs. E. M. Kay, Mr. James Lapsley. Mrs. Sarah E. Lapsley, Robert Lapsley, James Lapsley, Sam Lapsley, Dr. S. G. Todd, Mrs. Sarah J. D. Todd, Mrs. Margaret A. Morrow. All from the First Church, Selma, Alabama, and Mrs. Lucretia and Teal Vingant on profession of faith in Christ. Jas. W. Lapsley and Dr. S. G. Todd were elected ruling elders and James Lapsley as deacon. Vine Hill Church has sent out several ministers and one Missionary, Rev. Samuel N. Laps. ley, who laid down his life in the dark continent for his Mas- ter's sake. Many changes have taken place since the organiza- tion. She now has a membership of about fifty-two and a flourishing Sabbath School with a regular mid-week prayer meeting.
Stanton Church.
On May 26, 1885, the Presbyterian tent which was used by the Synodical Evangelist of the Synod of Alabama, was pitched at Stanton at the invitation of Mr. Richard Coe, of Gregory, Coe Lumber Company and others. On Wednesday evening May 28, Rev. W. H. Claggett, Synodical Evangelist as- sisted by Mr. Charles Birch who led the music with his cornet, began a series of services which were continued through the seventh day of June. On the 4th Stanton Church was organ- ized with ten members. Mr. James R. McArthur, of Pisgah, Mrs. N. J. McArthur, of Alabama Street Church, Miss Mary J. A. McArthur from M. E. Church of Mayesville Ala., Mr. Rich- ard Coe of the First Church Selma, and Mrs. A. C. Coe and five
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baptized non-communicants who were admitted, at the same service seven others were received. Mr. C. F. Dorethet, from First Church, Miss Alice Liles and Mrs. E. J. Barnett of Valley Creek and Mr. James Crawford and Mrs. Alice Craw- ford and Mr. and Mrs. David Lodge on profession. James McArthur, Richard Coe,C. F. Douthit were elected and ordained as ruling elders. Rev. Robert A. Lapsley was called as stated supply, he being their first minister. Two years later O. H. P. Wright, A. S. Liles and David Lodge were elected and or- dained as deacons. Stanton's organization erected a nice house of worship and flourished for a number of years; but the hand of death weakened its membership and others moved away, the church now has but a few members, but has services once a month.
Plantersville Church.
Was organized May 5, 1901 by Evangelist D. N. Yarbro, with fifteen members, nine of which came from Vine Hill Church, one from, Stanton and five from elsewhere. Rov. J. A. Shaw was called as pastor. Dr. S. G. Todd, E. E. Todd and J. A. Fulford were made ruling elders. J. H. McNeil, E. N. Todd and Claude M. Fulford wert made deacons.
Since the organization some have been removed by death and some have left the community, but others have united. The church has now her second pastor and is in a flourishing condition. They once worshipped in a Union Church until this year. They have sold their interest to the Methodist breth- ren and are now making efforts to build a new house of wor- ship.
The above group of four churches called a few years ago as their pastors Rev. F. E. (Bagby, a man full of energy and good works, he has studied his congregations from all points, so that he might work for their advancement. The manse is now being greatly improved, the amount of improvements will be about $700. Mr. Bagby is holding the interest of the field
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in a wonderful way, he possesses for them a peculiar magnet- ism and is capable of presenting the Gospel in a clear under- standing manner, the work is growing under his influence.
The Last Leaf.
In our little book the last leaf is almost turned, we have spoken of the living and rambled amid the tombs gathering up the flowers and scattered them around in beautiful thoughts. Should not our lives be composed of greater things than these. Let us bring our thoughts into action, wit hour many words of kindness and in little kindly deeds make a brighter world, casting a ray of sun-shine into the humble cottage. Make the world rejoice that we do yet live. Do not wait till death's cold hand embraces the one, you should have given a word of con- fort or of cheer.
"Too late to bring your fragrant offering, Or twine love's myrtle for my marble brow
When I am dead! Today your tribute bring I need them now!
Waste no laudations on my deafened ear, Nor lay choice flowers within my icy hand Your tardy meed of praise I shall not hear, Nor understand.
To pile a wreath of flowers upon my mound, Or speak the kindly words you should have said, Will be but mockery-a hollow sound When I am dead."
65
A Tribute to Valley Creek Church. By Rev. Junius M. Batte.
Nearly one hundred years or more, In the heart of the wild wood God's children met to pray; The hallowed scenes have stood, And answered prayer Lingers still to the present there.
On a lofty hill of mother earth Near the stream that bears its name Is the old brick church called "Valley Creek," Of grand immortal fame.
For generations between her walls The sound of "Truth" was heard Humble followers of Christ Still attend the, "Living Word."
No mighty works of world wide fame To arouse a dying race, Has from her blessed walls e'er come Yet, mighty streams of grace
Which year by year has gone, Into the heart of her worshippers, And built a monument of love As high as Heaven adorned Defying the "powers" of earth and hell She stands for the living Christ.
"Old Church of our Fathers," How dearly we love thee Thy glorious work of the past, has shown How we who are living, still may adore thee Redoubling our efforts to give others, a crown.
G. H. KYSER
PHARMACIST
Prescriptions a specialty
Fine Candies, Toilet Goods,
CIGARS AND TOBACCO.
SELMA, ALABAMA.
Liepold Brothers
Always Reliable -- Fair and Square
Department Store.
Broad Street.
Selma, Alabama.
-
W. H. HOGAN
PROPRIETOR MOSS GROVE DAIRY
Poultry. Dairy Products. Fresh Eggs. Registered Jersey Cows. Imported Berkshire Hogs. SHAKELFORD PLACE. SELMA, ALA.
L. W. HUBBARD, J. L. CLAY,
B. S. MELVIN,
President Vice-President Sec'y & Treas.
Hubbard & Clay Grocery Company
Wholesale Grocers, Commission Merchants
and Cotton Sellers.
616-618 Water Street, Selma, Alabama.
HARRELL DRUG CO.
We handle the freshest and purest drugs and our prescriptions are promptly filled. We solicit your patronage.
We are the agents for the celebrated Buist's garden seed. Try them.
Corner Alabama and Broad Sts. SELMA, ALA.
R. H. & W. C. AGEE
WHOLESALE GROCERS AND COTTON COMMISSION MERCHANTS Selma, Alabama.
We keep on hand at all times a full supply of staple and fancy groceries, at the lowest market prices. Your orders are solicited and will have our best attention.
Our cotton department is managed by competent and experienced cotton men, so that we can guarantee prompt and carefull attention to all shipments entrusted to us.
R. S. CAROTHERS
President.
J. S. CAROTHERS
Secty. & Treas.
SELMA HARDWARE COMPANY SELMA, ALABAMA
Dealers in Agricultural Implements, Builders Hardware, Sash, Doors, Blinds, Cement, Lime, Belting and Mill Supplies.
Agents for
International Harvesting Machinery, B. F. Avery & Sons, and John Deere Plow Co.'s Plows and Implements.
Garland and Charter Oak Stoves, Ellwood Fence, Flintkote Roofing.
REST
COPYRIGHT-
1
REST is what we all long for and its consumma- tion is the dream of our lives.
Those who rest in the valley of the grave love the "after death" attention we give them.
A MEMORIAL BUILT BY US will prove an ornament to your plot and our charges are indeed moderate.
We have built most of the monuments in the Valley Creek Cemetery.
SELMA MARBLE & GRANITE WORKS J. W. PETERS, Proprietor Successor to J. N. MONTGOMERY.
820 Broad Street. 'Phone 656
SELMA, ALABAMA.
C. W. HOOPER J. E. AXFORD L. M. HOOPER
C. W. HOOPER & CO.
Wholesale Grocers
and Cotton
Commission Merchants.
Corner Green and Bow Streets.
SELMA, ALABAMA.
W. E. CALLEN & CO.
Merchandise Brokers.
SELMA, ALABAMA.
Carson's Dairy
NEAR SELMA, ALA.
'Phone 955 - 11
GEO. M. CALLEN
Wholesale Fruits and Produce 605-607 Water Street, Selma, Alabama.
APPLES, ORANGES, LEMONS, BANANAS, COCOANUTS, PEANUTS, POTATOES, ONIONS, CABBAGE, POULTRY, EGGS, ETC.
CONSIGNMENTS SOLICITED.
Warehouses on Green St. and Railroad.
Oldest Iron Works in the State
WE WANT YOUR BUSINESS.
Have your work done by us. Best Material. Best
Workmanship. Quick attention to repairs and broken down jobs.
PEACOCK'S IRON WORKS ESTABLISHED 1865
Iron and Brass Foundry. Machine Shops. MANUFACTURERS OF MACHINERY AND CASTINGS OF ALL KINDS.
Address all Communications to the Firm.
SELMA, ALABAMA.
Selma Military Institute A MODERN UP-TO-DATE SCHOOL Brick Building, Steam Heat, Electric Lights, Hot and Cold Baths.
Character, Mind and Body Training is Our Idea of Education.
Tuition $175 per year.
Address JAMES S. COLEMAN, Principal
Selma, Alabama.
E. H. HOBBS,
Watch Maker and Jeweler.
Agent Eastman Kodak
916 Broad Street.
SELMA, ALABAMA.
Presbyterian College for Women CHARLOTTE, N. C. High Grade College for Training Young Women. Faculty of skilled christian teachers, with the Bible for a text book. Situated in the famous Piedmont section of North Carolina, with dry, bracing winters. Rates Low. For Catalogue address REV. J. R. BRIDGES, D. D.
E. M. Shipman Dry Goods, Notions, Boots, Shoes, Men's Furnishings. Georgetown, Colo.
THE City National Bank
OF SELMA,
Selma, Alabama.
Capital, Surplus and Stockholders Liability $1,100,000.
A. G. PARRISH, President.
H. I. SHELLEY, Cashier. W. S. MONK, Assistant Cashier.
DIRECTORS
W. P. ARMSTRONG.
A. G. PARRISH.
A. W. JONES. C. W. HOOPER.
W. S. MONK.
E. A. SNOW, Pres. W. G. SHIPMAN, Sec'y & Treas.
C. H. HOBBS, V. P. C. A. SHIPMAN, Traveling Agt.
SHIPMAN ORGAN CO.
High Point, N. C., U. S. A.
If there is no agent in your town, Music hath charms for the Universe. write us for catalogue.
SKIPMAN
147
Patronize home industry and buy only a Southern made organ. We make Chapel and Parlor Organs.
MANUFACTURERS OF
HIGH GRADE REED ORGANS Made in the South, by Southern people, with Southern capital.
Copyright 1908 by Hart Schaffner & Marx
"Eliasberg's" "Hart-Schaffner & Marx" Fine Clothes, "Manhattan Shirts" "Regal Shoes" For men and women, "Dutchess Trousers"
"Stetson Hats" All bunched together makes . the biggest combination of "Top Notchers" in any one store in Alabama.
You can rest assured that when you buy anything of us that you get the best there is in Clothing, Furnishings, Shoes and Hats.
The new Spring goods arrive with every train, you can get any Style, Color, or Size here and our guarantee is "Money back on any purchase un- satisfactory."
Eliasberg & Bros. Mercantile Co.
SELMA, ALA.
" 3 Stores --- 10 Floors."
HULL PRINTING WORKS
. Selma, Alabama.
PRINTING, RULING AND BINDING at prices to please all.
Lauderdale Street, back of City National Bank.
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