DUKE UNIVERSITY DIVINITY SCHOOL LIBRARY Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2013 http://archive.org/details/historyofrockyriOObroo History of ■ Rocky River Baptist Church By E. M. BROOKS 1928 121606 ■ft, ■ -■■' ■ Foreword • ■/ This little book is a labor of love. It is unpretentious in every way save as. a record of facts of Rocky River Church and things Denominational in North Carolina. To call it a History may be a too high-sounding title. Yet, it is much more than a history of one local Church. Some hitherto unpublished facts are brought out and established that should be of a more general interest. There is a short sketch of every old Pastor, Deacon, Church Clerk and original Family constituting the Church in its early days. This being a Mother of Churches she has left to Posterity a number of Offsprings. Some have been obedient to the Faith and some have not. These have been considered at some length. When several hundred friends have read and Bequeath- ed to their children copies of this little "History of Old Rocky River Church," the Purpose of the writer will have been attained. History of The Rocky River Baptist Church 3 ■■—- CHAPTER I. THE CHURCH'S ORIGIN AND EARLY DAYS. Lack of Records — First Book Lost or Misplaced — Present Church Book Begins April the 5th, 1828 — First Preachers and First Settlers. Organization and First Pastors. Rocky River Missionary Baptist Church, Anson County, North Carolina, was organized in the year 1776. The founder of the church un- known. The founding of the church has been credited traditionally to Hon. and Rev. John Cul- peper, Sr. But Mr. Culpeper being born in the year 1764, and his father, Samson Culpeper, mov- ing to Georgia when young John was only twelve years of age, and not returning till he was twenty, puts these dates too close together to justify this tradition. He was an early pastor and the church was often designated locally as "Culpeper's Meeting House." His return from Georgia was in 1784, and not till then could he have been pastor. How soon after this date he took charge of the church is unknown. Old folks in the church community used to say that 'he was pastor for more than fifty years. This was not only possible but highly probable. For in the oldest church book preserved no former pastor is ever mention- ed. From other sources it is known that Elder Edmond Lilly was pastor in 1790. The church records show that Elder Culpeper was pastor up 121606 History of The Rocky to a few weeks before his death in January, 1841. And, if he immediately followed Elder Lilly, ne could have been pastor for the reputed fifty years. Its Location and Why. The Church is located in what is known as upper Anson, or the North-west corner of the county, seven miles West of Ansonville. The first meeting house was built near the stream of Rocky River, whence its name, on what is now the farm of the late Frank Gaddy. Inis was once the largest farm in the neighbor- hood containing about eighteen hundred acres. Its original owner was "Rocky River" Bill Lee, the oldest of that name so far as known. The building stood on a slight elevation some three hundred yards from the river. Here the Cul- pepers built a home not more than one hundred yards from the Meeting House. Or, very likely lived here before Samson Culpeper moved to Georgia, as John Sr. and John Jr., son and grand- son of Samson, were both born in Anson county. Later, the church building was moved one- half mile further from the river southward. It had remained at the first site long enough for a burying ground to be laid off and a number of graves made for both white and colored. The graveyard was placed midway between the church site and the Culpeper home. The well used at the home was only recently filled and is now, of course, out of use. The third site is a mile and one-half from the river. The two first sites were on the Lee farm. The third later was attached to it by purchase, but at the time of its location thought to be from the lands of Wyatt Nance, a Clerk of River Baptist Church the Church. The building at this site was a large frame structure erected to care for both iwhite and colored. A row of posts running the length of the building was the only partition be- tween master and slave. The windows had plank ishutters save the one behind the pulpit, it had lights. No stove was ever used. Fires in extreme cold weather were built out of doors. The fourth site is in the same campus on a higher elevation and was from the Darling Allen lands. The present building was put up about 1882. Before this there had stood a large "Ar- bor" where all special meetings such as Annual Revival meetings, associations and so forth were held. It served a good purpose and many hated to give it up, even though it was replaced by a new church building. The place was famous for the great crowds attending these special meet- ings under the old Arbor. Many prominent men of the long ago preached from the rustic old pulpit. The Culpepers, father and son, Edmond Lilly, Edmond Lilly Davis, S. P. Morton, W. A. Morris, Dwight Hayes, Robert Furman, N. B. Cobb, and others. The old Arbor stood on after these had passed away. It waited to serve an- other generation. Then came N. R. Pittman, H. W. Battle, C. L. Greaves and others. It was under this Arbor that Bro. Pittman held the greatest revival remembered by any now living. It was in the year 1882. Nor did they preach in vain, for this church once had a large membership and was known far and near. No church of any denomination seems to have been in existence within twenty-five or thirty miles of Rocky River at the time of its founding in 1776. The nearest known church was that of Rocky River Presbyterian Church, on Rocky History of The Rocky River near Harrisburg, Cabarrus County. This is mentioned in their church history in 1754. The nearest Baptist seems to have been the Sandy Creek, in Randolph, and possibly one or two others in that section. A church so hoary with age, though weak and tottering now, and not promising so much as in the past, should still have the respect and good will of all right thinking people, and, may it be said? have their financial aid should the time ever come when the church cannot exist without it. Why the Location? It was not on any main thoroughfare of that time. The neighbors lived far apart. Most of them owned large plantations. They had slaves but few tenants. There must have been a reason. What was it? It could have been one of several. First — "There was much water there." The church is surrounded by three living streams: Rocky River on the North; Lanes Creek on the East; Cribbs Creek, two hundreds yards to the W'est. The little, clear, Cribbs Creek has been the one and only baptistery of the church for more than a hundred years. Second — It was and is a good farming section. Though there are hills, there are also some very fertile bottoms on each of the streams noted above. Third — and perhaps the main reason, was the fine type of the original settlers who were to compose and sustain the church. The question might be asked, was the church located here because of the people, or did the people move here because there was a church here. Both could be true. Some good families were here to begin with, while others moved River Baptist Church 'here to be near a church. First and last but few churches have been surrounded by finer old fami- lies than this church. Several of them, however, have become extinct. History of The Rocky CHAPTER II. THE OLD SCHOOL-HOUSE IN THE GROVE. Had a Sacredness Not Common 'To All School Buildings — Stood a Long Time and Served a Purpose — A School Anecdote or Two. About thirty yards from the Arbor stood the community school-house. It was a sub- stantial framed building without modern con- veniences. There was a chimney in the East end, one window with a plank shutter, a door on both the North and South sides. In the West end was provided a writing shelf made of a broad plank hinged on so that when not in use it was kept upright and formed a part of the wall. In extreme cold weather only the South door was allowed open which furnished the only light the teacher and students could get. When the sessions were in the early fall or summer the old Arbor near-by was used and made an ideal place as they thought, for school purposes. The larger boys would often go up in the big pulpit to work their arithmetic. When compelled to use the house and the weather was open, the boys resorted to the sunnyside of a hill nearby, re- turning their work to the teacher at convenient times. If raining, and compelled to stay in, no difficult problems were solved that day. When a boy was allowed to study out of doors, it meant be was either a mighty good boy or a senior. They were all regarded as upper classmen. This building was used for at least seventy- - «jtifcir ' River Baptist Church five years without change or enlargement. It stood for several years after its days of service. Notwithstanding its poor equipment students at- tended from other parts of Anson and from Stanly, some even hoarding in the neighborhood to get what they thought the best school in reach. Quite a number of the teachers of that day taught here. Washington Mask, Watt Allen, S. P. Morton, Miss Belle Strother, a refugee from Virginia, taught during the War. Later teachers were Eliza and Mary Brooks, John A. Kendall, Esquire Tom Hyatt and others. The free schools lasted then for only four to six weeks. This •was usually followed by a subscription session of about the same length. For a public teacher to get one dollar a day was regarded as exorbitant. Subscriptions ran around one dollar a month per scholar. The following is a copy of a school roll found in the papers of Washington Marshall Allen. This school was taught before the War, as Mr. Allen served as a private throughout the entire war. He lost his health in a prison camp and died im- mediately on returning home after the surrender. He had intended making teaching his life work. This is another instance of how war cuts short the hopes and aspirations of noble young man- hood. The Roll follows: Edmond J. Threadgill Lucy Lee William F. Crump Patrick C. Lee Robert H. Allen Richard Lee T ,,, A11 Charles D. Lee James M. Allen Elizabeth Lee James F. Crump Charlotte Lee James Broadaway George D. Lee Thomas H. Brooks Mary A. Threadgill Alex T. Allen Martha J. High 10 History of The Rocky Sofronia Allen James Darling High Mary Avitt John Staton Sarah Avitt Isabella Brooks Frances Avitt Caroline Brooks John Avitt Susan Brooks Steven Lee John W. Turner George Lee William P. Davis Nancy Lee Hampton Davis Of the above list only two are living. They are Mrs. Martha J. High (Turner) ; and Mrs. Charlotte Lee (Thompson). If the 'boys and girls didn't learn much they got some remuneration from the fun they had on the "sly." It had to be on the sly. Teachers were more rigid then. They had but few things to give but discipline was one of them. Once when Elder Samuel P. Morton was in charge, a big boy needed the rod of correction, and as was the custom with teachers, sent the boy out with his knife to get the switch. While out the boy pealed the loose bark off a pine log and lined the inside of 'his shirt, thus forming an armor against the impending switching by the teacher. The boy deliberately walked and handed the switches to the teacher, turning around and bending over apparently in perfect submission and humility to receive his just desert. Uncle Sammy was in the right mood to proceed and be- gan letting the rod fall fast and heavy. But what a noise? Was he killing the (boy or not? Nobody understood; not even the teacher. Too much thunder for the lightning he thought. A careful examination revealed the facts. Uncle Sammy was outwitted. The boy went free. But again the same boy offended. He was given to fun. It was his main purpose in going to school. He was good hearted; the teacher River Baptist Church 11 loved him. But he must be punished; he might ruin others. This time Uncle Sammy gave orders for quiet and this time went out after the switch himself. On returning "Snole" couldn't be found. None would explain. The teacher finally thought of the big old chimney as a possible hiding place He was sure enough up there. He was given or- ders to slide down. This he did to the amusement of teacher as well as pupils. Again he had out- witted Uncle Sammy. He went home none the worse save the mark of Ham upon his features. He was as black as any slave on his father's farm. Yet 'tis said the boys and girls were better, then. 12 History of The Rocky CHAPTER III. HOME-COMING AND CENTENNIAL, 1927. A Big Day; A Quickening Of Tender Memories; An Inspiration To Many. The Centennial held at the church the fifth Sunday in July, 1927, was perhaps the most memorable clay in the church's history. It had been in the plans of friends for several years. Great preparations had been made. All living former pastors and former members had been urged to be present. A cornet band of Wadesboro had volunteered its services, several quartets on hand to take part, a number of full church choirs also. A long table prepared in the grove for the noon feast, parking space provided for hundreds of cars, marshalls appointed to arrange for the comfort and convenience of visitors, and, last but not least, a splendid program arranged to help make the day a happy and profitable one. The seats were placed in the grove near a large stand prepared for the speakers and choirs. Nothing seemed lacking. Only one thing was feared — what about the weather? No local weather prophet would risk a venture. Why? "It had been said of old time it always rains at the July Meeting." But it didn't, and such a day and such a crowd ! For the information of friends who could not be there, the program is given in full below. It was carried out to the letter ;save the part assign- ed to Rev. C. H. Martin, who failed to come. Oth- "River Baptist Church 13 •ers not on the program were used, including the venerable General William A. Smith, of Anson- ville, and Mr. John A. Kendall. Program Home-Coming and Centennial Exercises at Rocky River Church. All old friend?, including former members, each living pastor and friends of all other church- es are most cordially invited to attend Home- coming and Centennial Exercises at Old Rocky River Church, Anson County, on Sunday, July 31, 1927. This will be the One Hundred and Fifty- First Anniversary of the Church's History. Every visiting family is requested to bring a basket of dinner as a public feast is to foe spread .and thousands of friends are expected to be on hand. Following is the Program : 10:30 a. m. — Song, "How Firm a Foundation." Scripture reading, I Tim. 3:1-16. Song, "When the Roll Is Called Up iTonder." .11:00 a. m. — Reading Sketch of the Church's History, by E. M. Brooks. Recognition of old pastors. The Stovall Quartet of Albemarle. 12-1 :30 — Dinner and Social Period. 1:35 p. m. — Song by Rocky Mount Choir. 1:40 p. m. — The Condition of this Country in 1776, by Rev. C. H. Martin, of Polkton. 1:55 p. m.— Song, "My Country Tis of Thee." 2:00 p. m. — Special, by Thompson Quartet. 2:05 p. m.— The Church as I Knew it 1887-89, by Rev. A. Marsh, of Marshville. 2:00 p. m. — Song, by the Wade Choir of Wades- fooro. History of The Rocky 2:55 p. m. — Some Products of the Old Country Church, by Hon. T. L. Caudle. 2 :45 p. m. — Songs 'by Red Hill and Cedar Grove Choirs. 3:30 to close — Song Selections at the will of the Choirs present. The cornet band led the first and last song and furnished music at the noon hour. Thus ended a great day with the Lord's people at Rocky River. This Centennial was followed by the annual revival meeting. The results were the baptism of eight fine young people and a revival in our own hearts. The Present Status Of The Church. The church is not strong and flourishing as it used to be. There are contributing causes beyond the power of the church to control. In the past there were men of wealth and influence in its membership. These are gone. The families were large and it did not take many to furnish a good congregation. Now the families for the most part are not so large. It takes folks to make a crowd. The church hasn't got them. The young people are like young people every- where, their minds have turned towards the towns and other callings than farming. Education makes young people more capable to enter the business or professional life. They hunger for it and go. No one can hinder them, nor perhaps should they try. Schools and col- leges are keeping them away from home even before they enter business. Who would have it otherwise? But it leaves a problem on the coun- try pastor's hands hard to solve. Just as there is a derth of the old fashion River Baptist Church 15 country doctors; there may be a derth of coun- try-loving pastors. If so, the church has a prob- lem, too. Though the above things are true, there is still reasons for carrying on for the Lord at the old church. The young people are bright and talented and willing. The church has never gone pastorless nor without a Sunday school. 16 History of The Rocky CHAPTER IV. THE "SPLIT"— 1834-1844. Internal Strife Over Missions- — Fellowship Lost — • Course Pursued — Church "Arms" Involved. A Motherly Old Church. She may not have teen like unto a "Bee-Hive" in general activity but, in the matter of "Swarm- ing" she has surpassed any of her neighbors. Jerusalem, six miles to the west on Richard- son's Creek, was an "Arm" for years. They co- operated with the mother church all the while till divided by the question of missions. It was here on the 13th day of October, 1832 that John Culpeper, Jr., was ordanied by a presbytery from Rocky River Church. The Mother church sought their welfare and fellowship till 1844. It might be interesting to give the Church Minutes in full for that meeting. It follows: "1844 — Conference Friday before the 4th Lord's Day in July, Elder J. Davis preached from. Acts 11th, and part of 28 verse. The church met in conference. A door was opened. None joined. Brother Robert N. Allen reported that he had conversed with the following persons to-wit: Robertson Pistole, Wyatt Nance, Ephriam New- som and Carey Tolson who all said they wanted their names taken off the church book, and did not consider themselves members of this church. Brother Uriah Staton made a similar statement as to Ann Baucom. On motion the above delin- quent members where excluded." Washington Allen, Teacher River Baptist Church 17 Another committe had been to labor with them previous to this but without results. From now on this Arm was openly and avowedly anti-mis- sion and is to this day of 1927. There has been secured from Jerusalem church a document from their first church records that comes in well at this point. It deserves a careful reading, and a comparison made with the minutes copied above will be seen to require a rather careful interpreta- tion. This document is given below: "North Carolina, Anson County. September 1st, 1833. As there has originated grievances, distresses amongst the Baptist churches and thereby union and fellowship being broke by this departure from the faith by the new inventions or institutions of the day which are unscriptural, and for union and fellowship for those who wish to take the Scripture for their guide and withstand the errors brought in by filthy lucre hunters and hirelings of the present day ; Resolved, as such, we formal- ly part of the Church called Rocky River Church, believing that part of the church with the pastor has by said inventions and institutions of the day revolted from the Scriptures, the original standard of the Baptist as hitherto united; Do for these reasons feel hound by the author- ity of God's word to withdraw from every one that walks disorderly after the traditions of men, and not after the commandments of Christ in said church, or, any other church or churches of the Baptist denomination, and not to eat with them, but come out from among them and touch not, taste not, nor handle not for all are to perish by using for doctrine and customs the command- ments of and traditions of men. And to be separ- ated from them according to God's word. History of The Rocky Accordingly having read these resolutions be- fore the church, on the day and date above, openly, as such we have met at Jerusalem Meet- ing House, Anson County, North Carolina on Saturday before the second Lord's Day in Novem- ber A. D., 1833, consulted our peace and prin- ciples, and thereby united in Covenant by giving ourselves to one another in fear of God and the Lord." (Signed) Wyatt Nance, Carey Tolson,. Robert Pistol, Ephriam Newsom, Wiley Bau- com, Sally Spears, Mary Hudson. Following this they adpoted Articles of Faith not so different from those in use by other Bap- tist churches. Now, there seems to be a conflict in the dates of the two documents above. Jerusalem has it on record that they organized themselves into a church body September 1st, 1833. Rocky River has it on record that they were still members with them and amendable to the church up to July 1844, when by an action of the church they were excluded for non attendance. We can not deny the records; we must reconcile them. Both records are true. The solution seems to be possible in this way: The Arm at Jerusalem took its action on the date stated but kept it from the Mother church. Other committees had gone to them whom they told they did not con- sider themselves members. Rocky River did not grasp their meaning and kept laboring with them to preserve the union. The old church took an ordaining presbytery to set apart a young preach- er to the ministry as late as October 13th, 1832. The Arm at Bethlehem. This was located in what is now the village River Baptist Church 19 of Ansonville. It was constituted into a regular church Friday before the 2nd Lord's Day in May, 1831. It had existed as an arm for several years previous to this date. The presbytery constitut- ing it was composed of John Culpeper, Sr., John Culpeper, Jr., Wyatt Nance, Thomas Allen, and Anion Yarborough. It went anti and did not remain for very many years. The site is used now as a cemetery for the village. Arm at Kc For some time the members held their names at Rocky River while they had services at Ken- dalls as often as a preacher could be secured. Brother Job Calloway was enrolled at Rocky River but brought the petition asking that Kendalls be constituted into a regular church. The request was granted on Saturday before the fifth Sunday in May, 1830, Elder Ralf Freeman, deacons Thomas Allen, Wyatt Nance and Amon Yarborough attended to represent Rocky River in the services. This church has continued to prosper through the years and is now a strong and vigorous body. The Arm at Brown Creek. This arm was constituted two years earlier than Kendalls. Elder Ralf Freeman, Thomas Al- len, and Amon Yarborough formed Rocky River's delegation to this meeting. The date was Satur- day before the fourth Lord's Day in May, 1828. This church has prospered through the years, and though not as strong as at some periods of its history, is still a liberal church. Austin's Grove. This is of doubtful location. The Eldership 20 History of The Rocky of the church was called for to meet at a sister Austin's of Stanly county to consider the advis- ability of forming- a church. This was most likely near Big Lick. The following letter is self-explanatory. It shows the spirit of the time of the split in our denomination over missions. Mr. Williams had his membership at Betheny. He moves nearer Rocky River and wishes his church letter. He addresses his request to Elder A. Harris. He knows there are impending strife and divisions. He pleads for an understanding and a continuance of fellowship. His letter was returned with the Action of Betheny church written on the margin. Rocky River most certainly received him on statement grounded on things contained in the letter. This was filed with other papers in the church booK. He was soon elected clerk and wrote a good hand. How long he lived after this to enjoy the fellowship of Rocky River is not known. It is to be regretted that so little is known of his after life and service. There are some reasons to believe that he was a minister of the Gospel. This Betheny Church is located in Anson County a few miles below Wadesboro and is still in existence, but now has but very few members. "June the 12th, 1841. "State of North Carolina, "Anson County. "Respected Father In the Gospel: "I have been of late contemplating on the goodness of God and His many mercies bestowed on the innumerable inhabitants of this Earth. And while contemplating my mind is lost In won- der. Then it is I well might with the Psalmist River Baptist Church 21 -say 'What is man that thou art mindful of him.' I have of late been thinking that I would wish to see you and hold a private conversation with you and relate to you the state of my mind on some particulars. But as this is not convenient at present and as I feel willing' that the whole church at Betheny where my membership is held ishould know it as well as you, and feeling some- what a delicacy in coming forward before the church to express my ignorance in weakness, I have taken the privilege to write to you and I wish you to heed what follows with seriousness and parental affection and bear with me for I respect you highly as a minister of Christ and I respect the brethren and sisters of Betheny church as Christians and have no reason to doubt them; but I must tell you that I am not satis- fied to live as I do, believing as I believe. For I profess to be a Baptist of the Predestinarian faith and I believe it is my duty to fellowship ail those Baptists who do profess the same, and not to reject them on account of their being call- ed 'Missionaries,' and because they say they are in favor of supporting ministers to preach the gospel to the heathens. For if they think it is their duty to contribute to the support of this in- stitution or that institution their property is their own and let them dispose of it accordingly as they think proper and we will do the same. I know the time has been when I was as much opposed to the preaching of those who professed to be missionaries as any person could be. "I did verily believe it was a speculating scheme conducted and carried on by a few in- dividuals in order to make them wealthy, as you have heard me often relate. Though I am of contrary opinion at this time. I have of late per- 22 History of The Rocky used the Memoir of Mrs. Judson and there find that there have been Missionaries ever .since 1813, which was before I was born. And if it was not that I know you do not devote much of your time in reading modern history, I would recom- mend the perusal of Judson's Letters. I have read them and feel bound to give them credit. "And now, Father Harris, what could have been the cause of Adoniram Judson and Ann H. Judson leaving of the United States and all their friends and relatives and their comfortable dwel- ling where they were blest with a plenty of this world's substance, such a plenty as to keep them from want by using industry, and exposing them- selves to the boisterous waves of the sea and going to India, where they no doubt expect to meet with a savage and barbarious nation of people. Was it not to preach the gospel of Christ to a heathen people ? I think myself that it was. And inasmuch as that was their errand, I think the Omnipotent Creator had a hand in sending them. I therefore, wish this letter to be read to the church at Betheny, and, let them know my mind concerning fellowship towards the Missionary Baptist brethren. I wish us all to unite again and become in full fellowship, both anti-Missionary and Missionary, and not be iSO cold toward each other as we have of late. "Brethren and sisters, I have not been among you for some time and the reason is that my mind has not been fully satisfied concerning the division among the Baptists. And, I thought it would wear away and then I would come to see you. But the more I reflect on the goodness of God the more I am constrained to believe that it is our duty to fellowship with our Missionary brethren. For they say they can fellowship us. River Baptist Church 23 Then, let us unite with them and toe no longer at variance, one with another. For my part, brethren, I feel willing to fellowship all of the Baptists, tooth Missionary and anti-Missionary, that is, if they are in full fellowship in their own churches. And I hope you will join in the same. I have some idea of joining the church near me and did not feel at liberty to so do until I inform- ed you of it. I wish you to write me word on the reception of this letter whether or not you can join me in my sentiments or not, "I wish you to take no offense at my letter, but read it with serious attention and write to me your sentiments as you all think most proper. I would like to receive a letter in answer to this as soon as convenient. "So nothing more at present, but still remain. "Your affectunate friend and brother, even until death. "W. J. WILLIAMS." "To Elder A. Harris and the Members of Betheny Church. "July the 17th, 1841. "Dear Sir: "We received your letter dated the 12th of June, that you could fellowship Missionaries and anti-Missionaries. Elder Harris said that he had Mrs. Ann Judson's book in his house. He thinks no more of it than trash. So we can say, fare- well for a season. We excommunicate you. May the God of Heaven direct you in wisdom's ways. "ELDER A. HARRIS, JESSE GARMON and THE CHURCH." 24 History of The Rocky CHAPTER V. ASSOCIATIONAL CONNECTIONS. Sandy Creek, 1805-1815— Pee Dee, 1816-1856- Brown Creek, 1857-1882— Anson, 1883— Pee Dee Again— Anson 2nd Time 1909 — Present —History of Pee Dee by John Culpeper. Associations! Connections. The first recorded connection with an associa- tion was with the Sandy Creek in 1805. This body met that year with Chambers Meeting House, Montgomery County. Up to that time the body seems never to have had a presiding officer. On motion of Elder John Culpeper, seconded by one 'brother, George Desmeekes, James Bostic was elected Moderator and Bryant Boroughs, clerk. The delegates from Rocky River this year were Elder John Culpeper and Armistead Lilly. The church kept this connection till October 28th, 1815, when at Rock Springs, M. H., in Chatham county, two miles from Pittsborough, all the churches South and West of Deep River, withdrew and formed the Pee Dee. Elder John Culpeper elected moderator of the Sandy Creek for that session. This made their parting gift of honor to a worthy servant. Delegates this year were John Culpeper, William Crittenden and William Benton. Elder John Culpeper and Bennett Solomon ap- pointed messengers to the Baptist General Meet- ing to represent the new association. The Pee Dee met in its first session at Rich- River Baptist Church 25 land (now Bethel) Montgomery County, October 19, 20 and 21, 1816. The Second Session was held with the Cedar Creek (now Lilesville) Church, Anson County, October 18, 19 and 20, 1817. The following- min- isterial brethren being present, namely: Daniel Gold, John Culpepper, Armistead Lilly, Archibald Harris, Ralf Freeman and Daniel White. The Brown Creek had been formed in 1855, and at its third meeting at Mt. Olive Church, ir Anson County, the Rocky River delegates found enrolled as follows: Elder S. P. Morton, H. M. Broadaway and J. J. Broadaway. The church drops from the list of delegates in 1883. The Anson was formed about this time, and, it is almost certain that Rocky River went into the new body. This association remained as County association for some years and was an influential body. The Old Pee Dee finally comes back with .\i appeal to the Anson to reunite with them as they had only six churches and needed more strength. All these six scattering churches went east of the Pee Dee River. The Pee Dee offered to alternate in appointing places of meeting so that every other year the sessions would come west of the river. But after awhile the brethren on the Anson side complained of having to go so far to attend sessions on the Richmond County side that the Anson was reorganized with most of the churches co-operating. But as all did not, some of the stronger churches returned to the Pee Dee, which leaves Anson a weak body com- posed now of only ten or twelve churches. There is a sentiment among still others to return to the larger body. This may or may not be done. History of The Rocky Rocky River is still in the Anson in the year 1927. In this connection it may be appropriate to insert a history of the Pee Dee Association, writ- ten 'by Elder John Culpeper, 1835, and preserved for us by The Triennial Baptist Register No. 2, Baptist Tract Society, Philadelphia, 1835. The following was read at the 1834 session of the Pee Dee Association. Place of meeting not given. History of The Pee Dee Association. (A Circular Letter by Elder John Culpeper Read Before The Pee Dee Association, Session of 1834.) "The Ministers and Messengers composing the Pee Dee Baptist Association, to the Churches they represent send Christian love: "Dear Brethren: "Being once more permitted to meet together in an associated capacity, we address you in a Circular, and present you with the history of our Association. / In giving you a history of (our body it is necessary to have recourse to the his- tory of the Sandy Creek Association of which we were formerly a component part. "The Sandy Creek Church, the oldest in our body, originated in the following manner: soon after the reformation by George Whitfield and others, Who began their extraordinary career about the year 1740, Shubal Stearns, a native of Boston, being a preacher, labored among them till 1751, when he embraced the sentiments of Baptists, as many others of the pedo-baptist sep- arates did about this time, and soon after was Hiver Baptist Church 27 "baptized by Wait Palmer, and was ordained the same year. Mr. Stearns and most of the separates had strong faith in the immediate teachings of the Spirit. They believed that to those who sought him earnestly, God often gave evident tokens of his will. Stearns, listening to some of these in- structions of the Spirit, as he conceived them, be- lieved himself called upon by the Almighty to move far to the west/ward, to execute a great and extensive work. Incited toy these impressions, in the year 1754, he and a few of his members took their leave of New England. They halted in Berkley county in Virginia. Stearns not meet- ing with his expected success here felt restless. Some of nis neighbors had removed to North Carolina; he received letters from them, inform- ing him that preaching was greatly desired toy the people of that country. He and his party once more got under way, and traveling about 200 miles came to Sandy Creek, in Guilford County, North Carolina, where he took up his permanent residence. As isoon as they arrived they built them a little meeting house, and 16 persons formed them- selves into a church, and chose Shubal Stearns for their pastor. Benedict vol. 2, page 38. He had Daniel Marshall and Joseph Brede for his as- sistants, neither of whom were ordained. Of Shubal Stearns, Benedict says, page 367: "His character was indisputably good, both as a man, -a Christian, and a preacher.' Of Daniel Marshall it is said, Benedict, page 39: "Though not pos- sessed of great talents, he was indefatigable in his labors." He sallied out into the adjacent neighborhood s,and planted the Redeemer's stand- ard in many of the strongholds of Satan. In pro- 28 History of The Rocky cess of time, some of the inhabitants became con- verts, and bowed obedience to the Redeemer's sceptre. These uniting their labors with the others, a powerful and extensive revival commenced, and Sandy Creek soon swelled from 16 to 606 mem- bers. In the year 1758, a few churches having been constituted, and these having a number of branches fast maturing for churches, Stearns conceived that an Association composed of dele- gates from them all, would have a tendency to forward the great otojects of their exertions. For this purpose he visited all the churches and con- gregations, and explaining to them his contem- plated plan, induced them all to send delegates to his meeting house, in 1758, when an Association was formed which was called "Sandy Creek." This Association experienced great changes; her limits extended into different sections of the country. The Missionary spirit or strong con- fidence in God which actuated Stearns and Mar- shall, and their associates, and induced them to travel into destitute regions, diffused itself into their successors in the ministry. This Associa- tion and some of its spiritual daughters, have nourished that practice in every age. Soon after the period when Judson and others visited the shores of Hindoston and Burmah, and on account of their labors and success resulted in the formation of the Baptist Board of Foreign and Domestic Missions, The Sandy Creek Associa- tion at their session held at Rock Spring, in Chatham County, in October, took up the subject and appointed R. T. Daniel Corresponding Secre- tary to isaid board, and appointed R. T. Daniel and Robert Ward messengers to the general meeting of the Baptists of North Carolina. River Baptist Church 29 At that session the Association was divided by mutual consent, and the churches South and West of Deep River formed a new Association called the Pee Dee, and John Culpepper and Ben- nett Solomon were appointed messengers to rep- resent the newly formed Pee Dee Association in the Baptist general meeting. This general meet- ing occupied nearly the same place among the Baptists of North Carolina that the Baptist State Convention now does. The Pee Dee Association held its first session at Richland in Montgomery county, on the 19th, 20th, and 21st of October, 1816, and adopted the course; allowed J. Culpeper six dollars for attend- ing the general meeting, and appointed J. Cul- peper Corresponding Secretary to the Baptist Board of foreign and domestic missions, and cor- responding messenger to the general meeting, and i Bennett Solomon his alternate. This Associa- tion held its session at Cedar Creek on the 18th, 19th, and 20th of October, 1817. Elders Daniel Gold, J. Culpeper, Armistead Lilly, Arch'd Harris, Ralf Freeman, Nathan Riley, Daniel White, and others attended. They then and there resolved that the Association recom- mend to the churches which compose the same, to take into consideration the importance of the missionary business, and that they contribute to the support thereof what they can reasonably spare. The minutes for 1818 not found. The ses- sion for 1819 was held at Bethlehem meeting house in Richmond county, the 16th, 17th, and 18th days in October; there the churches were very fully represented and took under considera- tion the missionary business, and resolved that they approve the proceedings of the Board of 30 History of The Rocky Foreign Missions, and recommend to the churches to continue to support the missionary cause. The session for 1820 was held at the Jersey Settle- ment, in Rowan county. The rain prevented the Association from accomplishing- much business, but much peace and harmony prevailed. The session for 1821 was held at Carlege's Creek, Richmond; The Association desired the ministerial brethren to visit the vacant churches. The session for 1822 was held at Rocky River, when it was recommended to the churches to set apart a day of fasting and praying to God, to spread His Gospel from pole to pole. The session for 1823 was held at Bethlehem meeting house, in Montgomery county. A query was introduced in these words: "Is the mission a cause of God?" Answer: "We believe it is the cause of God." The session for 1824 was held at Pine Woods meeting house, Rowan county. In the circular for that year are published the following words: "Many of the churches are forming auxiliary so- cieties for the purpose of sending the Gospel to every neighborhood in our State and the Lord is abundantly blessing their labors of love. Dear brethren, let us go and do likewise." The session for 1825 was held at Bear Creek; no minutes to be procured. This year the Abott's Creek Association was formed; the dismission of some of our churches, reduced our body to nine churches and four hundred and seventy-nine members. In 1827, we were reduced to 462 mem- bers. In 1828 no minutes were found. In 1829 our increase was small, our number 465. In 1830, our number increased to 12 churches and 487 members. In 1831, the great and extensive re- vival commenced and we were the happy sharers River Baptist Church 31 of it. In that year 199 were baptized, increasing our number to 686. In 1833, 240 were baptized, our present number increased to 1080. In 1831 and 1832, three of our churches forsook us and came out in opposition to all the benevolent insti- tutions of the day. With the churches which withdrew from us in opposition to the benevolent institutions, four of our ministering brethren, being one-half of our number forsook us, but we hope our God has not forsaken us; we have sup- plied our churches with preaching, we have in- creased in numbers, and we hope are growing in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. And the Lord has raised up and we hope is still raising up our young preachers to supply the place of such as have left us, and have died, and others of us who are wearing out. As to the other branch of the subject on which, by a resolution of the last session we were to address you, that is, the constitution of our churches ; we have no certain account of the date of the constitution of some of them. It appears from Benedict, vol. 2, page 42, that the Sandy Creek Church, the oldest in our Association was constituted in 1756, and the church at Little River, in 1760: this is the church known in our minutes as the Church at the Forks of Little River, as there are several churches on that river. The church at Rocky River was constituted in 1776. The Pee Dee church was constituted in 1785. The church formerly called Richland, now 7 Bethel, in Montgomery, was constituted before the division of the Sandy Creek Association, which occurred in 1815. The church at Bethlehem was represented in the first Session of the Pee Dee Association in 1816. But the date of the 32 History of The Rocky constitution is not known. The church at Cart- lege's Creek, was constituted in 1823, of persons who were members of Pee Dee church. The Spring- Hill church was raised up toy Brother Daniel White and others of his country-men from Scotland, and was constituted about the year 1818. The church at Saron, was constituted in 1826, of members from the Bethlehem church. Brown Creek church was represented in the Association in 1829, and it is presumed was constituted in 1828, but as the Minutes of the Association for that year are not on file, it is not certain. The church at Kendall's and the Bethlehem church in Anson, were both constituted in 1831, of mem- bers formerly belonging to the Rocky River Church. The church at New Union, was consti- tuted in 1832, of members from the church at the Forks of Little River, and the Bethel church in Montgomery. The Lawyer Spring church, formerly belonged to the Moriah Association and was dismissed from that body and joined us in 1833. The church at Dover was constituted in 1833, and was formerly a component part of the church at the forks of Little River. We have here given you as correct a history of the origin, rise, and progress of our Associa- tion, and of the constitution of the churches, as our limited information, and the time we could devote to the subject, would enable us. We perceive the first churches were raised up and the Association formed and built up by men who had strong faith in the immediate teaching of the spirit of God; who believed that to those who sought him earnestly, God often gave tokens of his w r ill; that such indications of the Divine pleasure were above, though not con- Deacon Robert N. Allen ' River Baptist Church 33 trary to reason; and following these indications, still leaning in every step upon the same Wisdom and Power by which they were at first actuated, they would inevitably be led to the accomplish- ment of the two great objects of a Christian's life, the Glory of God, and the salvation of men. Listening to these instructions of Heaven, as they then esteemed them, and called upon by the Al- mighty as they believed, they left their friends, and traveled as faithful missionaries, or heralds of the Gospel, and although they met with op- position, and had to encounter difficulties in priva- tions, their success was measured not by their abilities, but by the power of God. The same mis- sionary spirit of zeal, called by some a spirit of enthusiasm, has from that day to this run through their successors and diffused itself, not only in the parent or Sandy Creek Association, but through the Pee Dee, and other younger branches of the parent stock. The Liberty Association lately formed of part of the Abotts Creek Association in consequence of the determination of a majority of that body, not to hold fellowship or sit with any persons who held with the Bible Society, Missionary So- ciety, or any benevolent institution of the day, received by baptism 307 persons during the last Associational year, and have now 569 members, being 185 more than the whole number of their opposing brethren who disowned them. They, like our association, have but few ministers, but the Missionary spirit has prompted them to spread the glad tidings of life and salvation in the ad- joining neighborhoods, and God has crowned their labors with abundant success. God has, and ever will bless such as obey his commands, and confide in his word. History of The Rocky The Churches in the Associations of our State including two where the churches are some in this State and some in South Carolina, who patronized the benevolent institutions of the day, have bap- tized 4751 persons. From the unassociated churches we have not obtained sufficient informa- tion to write anything certain as to their increase, progress, or number, but we know the increase in some of them has been considerable. Our anti- missionary brethren, who are opposed (and we hope honestly), to these institutions have eight Associations, in six of these where they print and publish the numbers baptized, they have bap- tized 180 persons; and by a comparison of their numbers excluded and died, with the number bap- tized they have experienced a small diminution. The above results are apparent from the Minutes of the several Associations for 1833. The Minutes for 1834, as far as they have reached us, or been heard from give the same information. The churches in the different Associations who patron- ize these institutions, and strive to spread the light of the Gospel at home and abroad, are in- creasing in numbers, and we hope are growing in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and their success as usual proportioned to their zeal and humility. And those who oppose these things, and use little or no exertions to spread the light of the Gospel, however sincere in their opposition, many of them are stationary, and others diminishing. JOHN CULPEPER, Sen., Moderator. Pleasant M. Powell, Clerk. Following the Circular Letter by Mr. Culpeper is a sort of Digest of the condition of the churches composing the Pee Dee at that time as follows : River Baptist Cnurch 35 The Pee Dee Association. The churches composing' this body have sev- eral flourishing Sunday Schools and Temperance Societies in operation among them. The follow- ing notices of some of them are taken from the minutes for the two past years. Cartledge's Creek — This church is in a very flourishing condition. Nearly 70 persons were received and baptized on a profession of their faith in Christ during the first six months of 1834. The church is supplied by Patrick W. Dowd, whose labors appear to have been wonder- fully blessed since he commenced preaching at that place. There is a Temperance society, Tract society and a Sunday school attached to this school. It is said that they contribute nearly as much to the preaching of the Gospel, and to the benevolent institutions of the day, as half the Pee Dee Association besides. Cedar Creek. — This church has experienced a "time of refreshing from the presence of the Lord," since the session of the Association in 1834. At a protracted meeting in July, 1835, of thirteen days continuance, the Lord was pleased to pour out his spirit in a most powerful man- ner; not only to the awakening and converting of sinners, (but also to the restoration of numbers whose love had grown cold. They are now in peace and harmony, actively engaged in promot- ing the glory of God, and the good of souls. They are in favor of the •benevoLent institutions, which so highly distinguish the present age. J. Cul- peper, Jr., is still their pastor. Rocky River. — A pleasing change has been wrought at that place, in the sentiments and feel- ing of the people, through the instrumentality which God was pleased to make use of, at a pro- 36 History of The Rocky tracted meeting last summer. Bread has been cast upon the waters, which it is hoped, will soon be gathered up, to the honor and glory of God. J. Culpeper, Sen., is their regular pastor. River Baptist Church 37 CHAPTER VI. THE CHURCH'S PASTORS— OTHER OFFICERS. A Worthy Line — Sound In Doctrine — Poorly Paid But Faithful. Some Faithful Officers Of The Church and their Families. Just who were the Original Settlers around Rocy River Church is not certainly known. The names on the oldest church Roll should give a clue. The first names found are Culpepers, Aliens, Nances, Bentons, Pistols, Turners, Statons, Smiths, Broadways and Yarboroughs, Lillys and Dargans. A few lines in regard to these should not be out of place. The Darling Allen family was one of the first and oldest. He was a native of Mecklenburg County, Va. Before moving to North Carolina he married Judith Nance, daughter of Robert Nance, who remained in Granville County, North Carolina. The birth dates of his children give us some further reason to believe he was an early settler. This is on the family records now in hand and well preserved. Nancy, born April 16th, 1784; Betsy, July 5th, 1787; Polly, July 17th, 1789 ; Robert, June 19th, 1792. He was a soldier of the Revolutionary War. Whether he enlisted from Virginia or North Carolina is uncertain. County Surveyor, D. H. Braswell, of Anson, remembers well the little History of The Rocky wooden keg he used as a canteen in the War. This in some way has .been misplaced or destroy- ed. Wyatt Nance, son of Robert Nance, and uncle of Robert Allen, lived one quarter mile North of the church and most likely deeded the lot for the church's third site. He was for many years Clerk of the church. He later moved on Richardson's Creek, near the Union County line, and went into the formation of Jerusalem Anti-Mission church and became its first Clerk. It is reasonable to suspect he died in possession of Rocky River's oldest church record. Am on Yarborough. — He is named as head of this family name though he had brothers and children of the same family name. He followed Wyatt Nance as clerk of the Church. He and family all belonged to the church and were among its most active members. He resigned in 1832 as clerk and he and every member of the family took letters and moved to Alabama. None of them ever returned. Other Allen Families. There were :several distinct families of this name though each related to the other. This relationship was both by blood and marriage. They were given to intermarriage. Robert Nance Allen was a son of Darling Al- len, mentioned first in this series of Family Sketches. He was also a grandson of Robert Nance the original of his name in this part of the State. Robert was born June 9th, 1792, one- half mile East of the church on Lane's Creek on the place now owned (by Henry Baker. Here his father, Darling Allen, was killed by Mose Allen, one of his slaves in 1803, when Robert was eleven River Baptist Church 39 years of age. It is said that this negro was the first man to be executed by hanging in Anson County. Robert was a Deacon of the church and was noted for his hospitality. His dwelling was at that time the best in the community, being a two-story eight room house. "He was careful to entertain strangers, given to hospitality." This family at an association entertained forty-five delegates and friends at one time. Mother re- members this well and has often spoken of it to the writer. This home was remarkable for the striking beauty of its chimneys, built of brick from a kiln on the farm. Those on the inside of the kiln were burnt to a glossy black. The masons so placed these as to form diamonds from bottom to top. This old dwelling was destroyed by fire a few years ago. This family observed to the letter the Biblical injunction, "Contend for the faith once delivered to the Saints." Not one of them have ever been anything but Mis- sionary Baptists. They are "Landmarkers." Thomas Allen joined the church earlier than Robert. No better member than he appears on the church roll. He was never in trouble of his own and was ever bringing Heavenly beatitudes upon himself as a "peacemaker." He was used in more church councils at home and abroad, on more constituting and ordaining Presbyterys and more often appointed a delegate to associations than any member of his day or since. His branch of the family has passed off the Earth to their reward. Johnny Allen. — He was a first cousin of Rob- ert Allen and married his sister, Polly Allen. He was a good man and true but would sometimes speak his mind a little too freely and have to apologize for it. Yet, he was a good member and 40 History of The Rocky well thought of by his brethren. Quite a number of his great-grand-children are living, among them Clyde Allen, of Norwood; Robert, of Ansonville; and Mrs. Addie Lee and Mrs. Minnie Gaddy, of the old home section. The David Allen family have in recent years not lived close to the church and most of them now belong to Rocky Mount six miles above here. The son, Clement, left three sons, John, Cal- vin and Devotion. The last named left no heirs. Calvin left a son and daughter, now living at Olive Branch. John raised a large family, some of whom are living at the old home, one at Oak- boro and two daughters, Mrs. Thompson of Nor- wood, and Mrs. Lilly Efird, of Cottonville. The Laniers. This family moved here from Virginia with the Nances and Aliens and were connected by marriage. Benjamin, the original head, married Dolly Nance, daughter of Robert Nance, a sister to Wyatt Nance and the wife of Darling Allen. This Benjamin Lanier was the father of Robert Lanier, late, of Norwood, and Mrs. Robert Allen and also of Mary Lanier, who married Robert M. Wall, of Norwood. Mrs. Eugenia Dunlap, of An- sonville, is the daughter and only child of this marriage. Robert and Edmond Lanier, of Nor- wood, are grandsons of this Benjamin Lanier. Uncle "Benny" lived but little around Rocky River Church. He spent most of his days in South Carolina "overseeing" large plantations for William PeGee and others. But his wife and daughters did live at least at two places in the community. First on Little Creek, half way be- tween the Church and the village of Cedar Hill. Then after Uncle Benny's death they lived close Deacon Uriah Scaton River Baptist Church 41 by the home of Robert N. Allen. After the mar- riage of her youngest daughter Grandma "Dolly" moved into the home of her son-in-law, Robert N. Allen, where she spent her few remaining days. None of the male members of this family appear on the church rolls. Some of the daughters with some slaves of the name belonged. John, one of the sons, moved to Alabama, and his family is lost to us. The families so far mentioned were all from Mecklenburg County, Virginia, with a short stop jn Granville County, North Carolina. Now other old families will be considered : The Turners. A family "tree" shows Jasper Turner the for- bear of them all. The male members of this family were not church members then or after. The women were members and faithful attend- ants. George was the only son to raise a family, lie lived to be exceedingly old and was buried in sight of his old home. Wilson, son of George, raised a large family, some of whom are living, namely: Sam Turner, of the old home, and Mrs. Fred Lee, of Ansonville, and Mrs. Cornelia Good- man, of Polkton. Aunt Polly and Dilly, two old maiden sisters, daughters of Jasper Turner, never married and willed their farm and other property to a colored slave who never left them during their natural life. He was a good negro and perhaps deserved the reward for his long stay with and kind atten- tion to these good old ladies. They were both members of the church and faithful. The Broadaways. The Broadaways were church folks and lived 42 History of The Rocky several miles West of the church. But distance did not keep them from attending church regular- ly. They were and are now Baptists to a man. The family is too large to trace its branches. James Broadaway. Each branch of the family is worthy of notice but the writer has time and space only to mention the one at the head of this paragraph. James Broadaway and wife, Aunt Patsy, left no children. They were good, happy old folks, ibeloved by all. He was Rocky River's most faithful church clerk. He served continu- ously for thirty-one years. They always had something to give children who visited them. In her last days, Aunt Patsy was paralyzed and could not speak, but would motion for something to be given children that went to see her. They lived two miles West of the church, near the new Burnsville High School Building. Sacred is the memory of them. Pistole. Robert Pistole and Elizabeth Pistole, his wife, are found enrolled on the oldest church book to be found. They are members with the Culpepers, Ralf Freeman, the Baucoms, Newsoms, Aliens, Yarboroughs and other families of the earliest mention. It seemed at first that all trace of them was lost and the family name extinct. But finally a great-grand-daughter, Mrs. S. B. Bundy, of Monroe, was discovered, who has given a full rec- ord of the family and is to be inserted in this book. This information came at a late hour and the copy had to be secured from the printers in order to make this amendment to the original copy. Mrs. Bundy is a lady of rare intelligence and has been my only dependence in getting hold of the facts wanted. Hiver Baptist Church 43 Brother and Sister Pistole were faithful mem- bers for many years; regular in their attendance and highly respected as neighbors. But when the "split" over Missions came they sided with the opposition and left us to form Jerusalem church, ■six miles away. It should be said that the family record to be presented here was copied from the old family Bible, now in -possession of Mrs. Ada Tucker, of Anson County, who is supposed to be another great-grand-daughter as one of the daughters, Lucy Pistole, married Goerge Tucker, &s will be seen from the record. Charles, the only son to marry and leave children, also left but one son, James M. Pistole, who married Alice Osborne, who have one son and two daughters now living in Monroe, Number 206 Crowell Street. John E. Pistole lives with and cares for his two unmarried sisters, Mittie and Audrey Pistole. He is a sober and industrious citizen. Another daughter of Robert Pistole, Kather- ine, married a Braswell, probably of Anson, as Sheriff Braswell, of Wadesboro, is also a great- grand-son of Robertson and Elizabeth Travis Pistole. These are all the living heirs the writer has been able to locate. It should have been stated in the beginning that in all probability Robertson Pistole was born at Cardiff, Wales. This is a seemingly well grounded family tradition handed down from parent to child and should be accepted as though it were actually found on a written record. The entire record, as found in the old family Bible is as follows: Robertson Pistole, born June 18, 1773, at Cadiff, Wales; died 1852. Married Elizabeth Travis, Sept. 8, 1796, who was born Nov. 18, 1778 ; died in 1841. 44 History of The Rocky Children of Robertson and Elizabeth Pistole : 1. Polly, born October 19, 1797. 2. Nancy, born June 2, 1799. 3. Elizabeth, born June 5, 1801. 4. Martha, born April 13, 1803, married Eph- riam Newsom. 5. Lucy, born May 21, 1805, married George Tucker and was killed by lightning. 6. Katherine, born April 11, 1807, married a Braswell, great-grand-father of Sheriff Braswell, of Anson County. 7. Edward Travis, born June 24, 1809. 8. Charles, born January 16, 1813, married Magaret Williams, born 1815, died August 24, 1884. Parents of Mrs. Bundy living in Monroe. 9. Sally, born Jan. 14, 1815. 10. Louisa, born Apr. 12, 1819. 11. William Robertson, born March 27, 1822, died July 27, 1841. 12. Anna, born Jan. 13, 18 — . Staton. Deacon Uriah Staton. Another worthy man comes into view. On the death of Thomas Allen Brother Staton was elected to take his place. He was a large land owner and possessed other prop- erty of value. It was more than four miles across his lands from east to west. He conducted a grist and saw mill on Lanes Creek. He owned a num- ber of slaves, many of them holding membership with him at Rocky River. Mack Staton, a worthy slave, was given the privilege of preaching to his color. He lived and died without a stain on his Christian character. Every body knew and respected "Uncle" Mack Staton. Brother Staton was a kind man to the poor and the widows and fatherless. He was the most liberal man of the River Baptist Church 45 church at that time. He was a man of few words, lie had the utmost confidence in his old pastor, S. P. Morton. But he would sleep under his preaching. Being asked why he always kept awake when visiting precahers had appointments and slept under Uncle Sammy's preaching, answered, "I know Uncle Sammy will do to trust ; the stranger I have to watch." He raised a large family and still has many descendants but only one living child, Mrs. Lilly Shankle, of Albemarle. Shepard Lee was not a deacon, but was one of the very oldest families of the neighborhood. He and family were members. He was a son of "Rocky River" Bill Lee, so called to distinguish him from "Truckwheel" Bill and his own son of the same name. "Rocky River" Bill and family did not belong to the church, though friendly to it as the first two church sites were probably sold or donated by him. Julius W. Burns came much later. He was a close relative of the other Burnes of the County. He was a man of wealth and liberal and true to his church. He raised a large family of worthy sons and daughters, most of whom are still living. His companion, Aunt Frankie Burns, is istill with us. This ends the list of deacons and other of- ficers of the Church who have gone to the Church Triumphant. There is one still with us, but who has passed the most active period of his life might be mentioned as we pass on to other items in the Church's history. John E. Efird has been a deacon for many years now. He is not a native of Stanly, but marrying over here he has spent most of his life with us. He has been a successful business man. 46 History of The Rocky Raised a large family of useful sons and worthy daughters. He is the father of the Efird Broth- ers who own and operate the Eiird Chain of Stores. He himself is Vice-President and joint owner with his sons. He is a regular church at- tendant and holds up well for his age. John Culpeper, Sr. John Culpeper, Senior, son of Samson Culpeper, was born in Anson County, North Carolina, in the year 1764. The exact locality is not known. It is known, however, that the Culpepers lived quite awhile on Rocky River near the first site of Rocky River Church, on what is now a part of the "Rocky River Bill" Lee plantation more recently owned by the late J. Frank Gaddy. When twelve years old his father, Samson Culpeper, moved to Georgia. At the age of twenty young John was converted under the preaching of Dr. Silas Mercer, and himself entered the ministry almost immediately. He soon re- turned to North Carolina where he spent all his active life serving the Baptist denomination as pastor of churches, moderator of associations, as Agent for State Missions and so forth. He enters public political life. In 1807, at the urgent solicitation of friends he made the race as a candidate for the United States Congress and was elected. The following is copied from Dr. George W. Purefoy's History of the Sandy Creek Association published in 1857: "He preached in the churches of the Sanely Creek Association, which then reached to the Pee Dee River. Ex- tensive revivals accompanied his preaching wher- ever he went. He continued these labors with undiminished zeal and effect for several years. In the meantime, his popularity became so great, River Baptist Church 47 that his misguided friends urged him to become a candidate for Congress, as the only means of preventing the re-election of the then encumbent, who was particularly distasteful to the voters in that part of the district. During this time he continued to preach the true doctrines of the gos- pel, but it was with greatly diminished zeal and ■success." Writing Prof. A. R. Newsom, Secretary N. C. Historical Commission, Raleigh, the following record of his service in Congress was secured: "I find that John Culpeper is listed as being from Montgomery County. The present Stanly County was created from Montgomery in 1841. Mont- gomery had been cut off from Anson in 1778. I find that Culpeper was a Federalist representative from North Carolina in the United States Con- gress of 1807-09; 1813-15; 1815-17; 1819-21; 1823-25; 1827-29. I also find him listed as one of the representatives from Montgomery County in the General Assembly of the State in 1824." It would seem from what Dr. Purefoy says above that it was not the intention of either Mr. Culpeper or his friends to remain in politics long- er than to accomplish the defeat of their so called undesirable incumbent. He made the race, de- feated his opponent, served one term and retired, as there is a gap in his service from 1810 to 1812. But of his own choice or by the urging of friends he again enters in 1813 to remain till 1829. The term in the N. C. General Assembly of 1824 men- tioned by Prof. Newsom could have reference to John Culpeper, Jr., as he was then a young law- yer and was about this time a member of the legislature. It is rather strange, and, apparently unfair, that a man so popular and so much used by such a strong constituency, should have such 48 History of Tlie Rocky scant mention in the histories of North Carolina. That he was popular there can be no question. From Bro. Purefoy's History, page 327, as above, he says, "In Congress he obtained a distinguished reputation for consistency, firmness and disinter- ested devotion to the interests of his country. It is quite true he never ceased to preach and serve churches during his public life as a States- man. All the while he was pastor of Rocky River church with Eider Ralf Freeman supplying while Congress was in 'session. Dr. Purefoy wrote with first-hand knowledge as his History was written only seventeen years after the death of Mr. Culpeper. There is every reason to believe they knew each other personally as Mr. Culpeper attended the Sandy Creek as messenger from the Pee Dee a short while be- fore his death and while Mr. Purefoy was a regular attendant if not a member of that Body. There have only recently passed away several old people from Rocky River church community who distinctly remembered Ralf Freeman being Mr. Cuipeper's supply. No picture of him is known to exist. But old people remembered him as being broad shouldered, portly but not fat. Uncle Ben Davis, an old worthy colored man and long time member of Rocky River, was interviewed a lew years before his death as to the personal appear- ance of Mr. Culpeper. He said, "He was large but not fat, high, broad forehead, broad shoulders, and a fine looking man I tell you." This old slave remembered Mr. Culpeper vividly and kept his membership in the church long after the War. It was a common saying among the old people that Mr. Culpeper was pastor for fifty years. This is very probable. The oldest records in hand starts with April the 5th, 1828. At this confer- Samuel P. Morton River Baptist Church 49 enee Wyatt Nance resigned as Clerk and Anion Yarborough elected in his place. Bro. Nance evi- dently kept the old book and never turned it over to the new clerk. The handwriting of Bro. Nance nowhere appears on the book we have in hand. As he went off with the anti-mission faction he failed to return the book and the richest of our church history now seems forever lost to us. But with the oldest book we have Mr. Culpeper is pas- tor and no mention is anywhere made of a pre- decessor. From other sources it is known that Elder Edmond Lilly was pastor in 1790. It is likely Mr. Culpeper followed him immediately, and if so, he did by 1840 serve the reputed fifty years. He was generally if not universally beloved by the people of this section. They without exception alluded to him in a reverent and respectful man- ner. Many calling him affectionately "Father Culpeper." The writer's mother remembered him well. She remembers a newspaper he brought from Washington City and gave her, the first she had ever seen. She kept it till it literally fell to pieces. His name as pastor is last found on the old church book in the October minutes for 1840. His death is mentioned at the January meeting in 1841. He held his membership for his name is on every church roll up to the day of his death. At this October conference he and deacon John Allen are appointed delegates to the Pee Dee Association. The Clerk makes the following notation at the January 1841 conference: "After the death of our pastor, John Culpeper, Senior, the church was some time without a pastor in 1841. 1'ne church called to the pastoral care of the church the Reverend Samuel P. Morton, who officiated as pastor for one year. Thus ended the life story 50 History of The Rocky of Elder John Culpeper so far as the church records go. He moved to his son's home at Society Hill, S. C, a few weeks before he died and was buried in old Welch Neck Church Cemetery in January, 1841. His last resting place is a beauty spot in this old church burying ground where he rests close by many prominent and honored sons of the Old Palmetto State. The writer made a special trip to Society Hill last August to view his tomb and copy the inscription. It follows : "In Memory of Rev. John Culpeper who died Jan. 1841, aged 76 years. He was distinguished for Candour, firmness and Consistency. He preached the pure Gospel for 54 years and died in the triumph of faith." The grave is well cared for and the inscrip- tion as plain as when done 87 years ago. If we analyze the statements made in the inscription , above we get some fine points of his personal his- tory. First, if he preached for 54 years he began in 1786. Second, as he was born in 1764, he com- menced preaching at the age of 22. As he enter- ed the ministry at 22 he could easily have served Rocky River the 50 years as claimed by his friends. By his side sleep four Culpeper children, evi- dently all the children of John Culpeper, Jr., who lived there at the time of their deaths. The in- scriptions on their headstones are as follows: "In Memory of Catherine E. Culpeper, a good child who died March, 1845, aged 9 years." "In memory of Thomas R. Culpeper who died June 8, 1856, River Baptist Church 51 aged 18 years. He was a most lovely youth whom the Lord called home one month after his con- version." Then two infants, "S. P. C." and "B. F. C." No dates given. John Jr. soon moved to or near Timmonsville and at a good old age was buried at old Lake Swamp church, three miles out from this town. The spelling of the Culpepper name varies. The form used by them has been adopted, that of using but two p's, though the correct form would doubtless be with the three p's. John Culpeper, Jr. John Culpeper, Jr., is a reputed son of Anson County. From every source this seems to be established. Even friends from South Carolina corroborate these statements to this effect. It is most likely he was born at the old Culpeper home on Rocky River. As to the date of his birth and death the inscription on his tomb at old Lake Swamp church, near Timmonsville, S. C, gives the only data available. From that it is learned he was born in North Carolina, December 9, 1800, and died March 26, 1873. This w r as transcribed by Rev. Mark R. Osbourne, now pastor of Lake Swamp church, and is as follows: "Rev. John Culpepper Born in N. C. Dec. 9, 1800 Died March 26, 1873." "In early manhood, a lawyer, solicitor and member of the North Carolina Legislature, then for all the remainder of r College. How things and places as well as "times" have changed! Following are the delegates for that year: Cullen Brooks, John Livingston and Elder S. P. Morton. At the December conference, Rev. S. P. Mor- ton was re-elected pastor. It was recorded for October that J. M. Tomlin- son, Martha Martin, William Lanier and George Morton were received. This George Morton was evidently a son of the pastor, S. P. Morton. He soon moved to Texas and never returned. 1860 was a fruitless year. Some churches are like fruit trees, who bear only every other year. One good woman, Sister Rhoda Staton, joined dur- ing the year. 1861. The church met with fine regularity, though business matters and additions seemed at a standstill. Two brethren of some prominence united during the year, namely, J. Q. Mills and H. D. Kendall. The Church families were giving their sons to the War, and their minds necessarily distracted by war conditions. It is remarkable that the War is not mentioned on the records in one single instance during the entire war. The writer of this sketch could wish more had been on the records for 1861, as this is his natal year. River Baptist Church 87 1862. Some regularity in preaching services but little else. One brother excluded for non- attendance. No additions. Twice during the year, March and April, one Edmond Morton preached. 1863. S. P. Morton still pastor. In February the Rules of Decorum ordered revised. At the July meeting Shepard Lee and wife and Martha Kelly joined 'by experience. In September Devo- tion Hancock united by experience and was bap- tized on the Sabbath with those who joined in July last. 1864. Again at their first meeting in the new year of 1864, S. P. Morton was re-elected pastor. Minutes of the March meeting are of some general interest. Copied in full: Proceedings of the March meeting. "After divine worship, the Rocky River church sat in conference. Applica- tion was made for Bro. Archelaus Bennett to establish a Arm from the church (Rocky River) at the Red Hill School House. Also, application was made by Bro. S. P. Morton to establish a Arm at the Carpenter School House. And both of the applications was unanimously granted." The Red Hill church is four miles south-east from Rocky River. It grew very rapidly and is now a good average country church. The Car- penter's School House is thought to have resulted in the formation of the present Rocky Mount church, six miles up the river and near the Union County line. September Conference. "Sofronia Allen and Eliza Lee united by experience." "The church refused to advance Bro. Thomas Avitt beyond that of licentiate in the exercise of his ministerial gifts. Brown Creek Association to meet with them in October." History of The Rocky 1865. The church kept up her preaching ser- vices and seemed to be holding together fairly well. No advancement along any line noted. 1866. The work was about as in the previous year. In the latter part of the year Edmond L. Davis is elected pastor for the year 1867. 1867. No marked progress discovered. Brown Creek Association meets with Meadow Branch again. Delegates, S. P. Morton, J. M. Broadaway and D. D. Davis. 1868. S. P. Morton again in the pulpit. "The church licensed two former slaves, James Jackson and Mack Staton, to preach to their colored friends." These were good and faithful darkies till the day of their death. The only addition recorded was that of sister Polly Wilhoit, wife of Rev. G. 0. Wilhoit. 1869. Thomas Avitt preached at the Febru- ary meeting. Nothing more recorded till the July meeting. "The following received by ex- perience and baptism: Richard Poplin and wife Mary Poplin, Lucy Crump, Charlotte Lee and Sarah Avitt." The writer remembers hearing these give their Christian experience when only eight years of age. 1869-1872. From July, 1869 to May, 1872, there is not a single item on record. These lapses in the records are deeply regretted. But little is recorded in 1872. 1872-1875. No record till mention is made in 1875 of Rev. C. C. Foreman being pastor. No additions mentioned this year. Joshua Hudson nnd wife dismissed by letter. Rev. Jesse Wheeler, of Monroe, and Rev. N. B. Cobb invited to assist in the July Meeting. 1876-1877. Rev. A. C. Davis has entered the a M-H P* a a CO c o > > River Baptist Church 89 ministry and is serving the church. He attended promptly but the records kept by some unknown Clerk are too brief to be informing. 1878. Eclmond L. Davis takes charge as pas- tor. The records are fragmentary and uninform- ing. During the year S. H. McLendon was elect- ed Clerk. He was competent but being a man of large business did not attend so well on Satur- days. He served four years. 1879. Edmond Davis is serving his second year. In October, Rev. John J. McLendon preach- ed. He was attending or just out of Furman College. He was a good man, but never served many churches. He married a sister of Dr. A. T. Robertson. 1880. Rev. J. W. Phifer, of Union county, ^served as pastor a part or all the year. Rev. W. G. Rollins, of Monroe, and others in- vited to aid in the July Meeting. 1881. Rev. G. 0. Wilhoit pastor. Brother J. W. Burns and two daughters brought letters from Olive Branch this year. He was later made a deacon. W. B. Harrell and John E. King invited to aid in revival meeting. 1882. Decided to build a new church on the old Arbor site. D. Hancock, J. W. Burns, and W. A. Waddell, Building Committee; Uriah Staton, J. E. Efird, and R. A. Sikes, Finance Committee. The contract was let to S. W. Birmingham and the work to be completed by October. The ceiling was not in the first contract and was done later. At the close of this conference in March a sub- scription from people living in or near Norwood was handed in for the benefit of Rev. S. P. Mor- ton to aid him in his last days: John Tyson, $1.00; Henry Mills, $1.00; R. H. Harris, $1.00; W. Kirk, 50 cents; Hettie Blalock, 25 cents; N. Pennington, History of The Rocky 5 cents; J. B. Parker, 50 cents; total $4.30. The Union meeting met here Friday before the 5th Sunday in July. Rev. N. R. Pittman, then pastor of Wadesboro, preached the introductory sermon. Brother Pittman remained through the re- vival, doing the preaching and none of the young- er members remember a greater one at the old church. There were twenty-odd professions, some joining at the close of the meeting and others later. It was under his preaching this writer first took Christ as this own Savior. The follow- ing baptized at close of meeting: Mary Sikes, Baker Staton, John A. Thomas, Frances Avitt, G. Watt Nash, William D. Morton, W. H. Burns, John Avitt, Florence Thomas, Jessie P. Crump. This was perhaps the year of the church's great- est progress. The best building it ever had was put up ; many fine young people had been enlisted ; more effort made toward education and missions. From November 1882 to July, 1884, but little recorded. B. E. Staton thought to be clerk. 1884. The Anson Association alluded to for the first time. 1885. January. Sisters Eliza Jane Teal, Ida Traywick and Emma Bivens appointed to canvass the church for Missions and Christian Education. 1885. A long drawn out church trial runs nearly through the year. Records stop with July and results not given. 1886. January. The church trial continues till the April meeting when the offending brother is excluded. At the September conference a com- mittee appointed to help raise a fund to aid in putting up a monument to the grave of Rev. S. P. Morton at Red Hill church. 1887. Delinquents still in the land and excuses made to order. Anson Union met here in July. River Baptist Church 91 Rev. H. W. Battle remained and did the preach- ing and five united by baptism, the writer being among the number. At the October conference E. M. Brooks elect- ed Clerk and served till and through the year 1898, a period of ten years. At the November conference a committee was appointed to raise funds to paint the church. 1888. January conference appointed a com- mittee to let the contract for ceiling church. This was six years after the church was built. Rev. T. S. Wright aided in the July meeting. Monroe Burns and Lilly Kendall joined by baptism. 1889. Rev. A. Marsh called, but could not take charge as pastor till March. The Senior Deacon Uriah Staton and brother D. J. High died before the March meeting. At the July meeting brother J. E. Efird elect- ed and ordained deacon to fill vacancy caused by death of Bro. Staton. September, the matter of painting brought up and further postponed. It was done later. June, 1890. Following the Union meeting the church was dedicated. Rev. J. K. Fant, pastor at Wades'boro, preached the sermon. October Conference appointed D. Hancock, J. W. Burns and S. H. McLendon to investigate title to the school house lot. December conference or- dered it to be sold. So it is seen the church campus covered the school lot also. 1891. A. C. Davis, pastor. The October con- ference discontinued the Rule requiring excuses from the brethren for absences. At the November Conference a brother was excluded for marrying a divorced woman, and, "Thereby violating the Biblical Law of Matri- mony." This is the only case on the records of 92 History of The Rocky the church. There were a number of charges for drunkeness and some exclusions. 1892. January. No services. Cause not given. February, preaching on Saturday. Sun- day, high waters prevented pastor and people from getting to church. There were no bridges then across either of the streams surrounding the church. We first find mention made of a Sunday School Convention in 1891 and 1892. Their custom was to meet the first 5th Sunday and Saturday after January. This date was set to insure a Spring meeting. June, 1892. Pastor Davis brought young Bro. James Long, of Union County, who preached on the Sabbath. July Meeting, 1892. Pastor had Rev. J. L. Bennett as help in the meeting. He was very acceptable to the people and there was a fruit- ful meeting. Mrs. Eliza Lee, Miss Lela Goodman and Cecil Teal joined by baptism. October, 1892. Rev. J. L. Bennett called as pastor for next year. The salary was set at $80, the highest ever promised up to that time. 1893, January. A deep snow prevented any service. February. Church discussed the plan of pay- ing the pastor quarterly. It must have been adopted as they raised $17 on the spot. This was a forward step. March. Conference appointed delegates to meet with the Anson Ex. Com. to consider the advisability of again uniting with the Richmond churches in reforming the old Pee Dee Associa- tion. May Conference, 1893. A very serious mat- ter sprang up between a good sister and one of Kiver Baptist Church 93 the male members. The sister had been offended and out of tins grew the more serious charge with which she was not directly connected. It was long drawn out and fought hard on both sides. The church appointed J. E. Efird, D. Hancock and J. C. Carpenter a committee to handle the case. So faithful were their services that at the close pf the trial a resolution of thanks was offered them by the church. The brother was put on his good behavior and retained for the time. He was soon charged for another offense, for which he was excluded and died out of the church. Annual meeting July, 1893. The meeting was productive of much good. Several un-named can- didates received for baptism and some by letter. At the September meeting Sarah Ann Furr and D. Lee Thompson joined and were baptized with those who had joined in July. Pastor declined to serve the church on his present salary, and Rev. G. 0. Wilhoit elected for 1894. October conference was fruitful of still other additions as follows: Lutie H. High, Jennie B. Staton, Rosa Furr, Ola Perry, Edgar M. Davis. These were baptized on the Sabbath. September, 1894. The church in conference appointed W. H. Bivens, H. M. Baker and the Clerk, E. M. Brooks to select a suitable site for a burying ground to be used by the church. At the November conference the Committee stated they had selected a site beyond the old church site for the burying ground. Report adopted. 1895. Missions mentioned often and subscrip- tions taken. This work was done mostly by per- sonal solicitation. It was a hard and thankless task. How much better the present use of en- velopes. The church was having some trouble with 94 History of The Rocky absentees. Bro. J. C. Carpenter stated he was dissatisfied with one of the rules of Decorum. The church agreed to consider this at next meet- ing. The particular rule though not stated on the minutes was, "If any brother charged with drunkenness or any other immoral conduct shall at the first deny the charge, but when finally proven on him makes confession, this late and forced confession shall not he valid." The church elected its first sexton at this conference. Bro. E. M. Davis was the first victim, and at the July conference sent up the keys with his resignation. Bro. Cecil Teal was elected his successor at a salary of $3 a year. How long he served is not stated. Also at this conference is recorded the following: "Bro. E. M. Brooks absenting himself from the house, the church voted to liberate him to exercise his gifts in advocating the cause of Christ as held by Missionary Baptists as the Lord may direct him.'.' July meeting, 1895. Pastor assisted by Rev. J. P. Boyd, then of Polkton, conducted the meet- ing with the following results: Jesse N. Parker, Bertha Gaddy and Clyde Bivens received by bap- tism. October, 1895. Maud Thomas, Ollie Lee and Mary Staton joined by baptism. E. M. Brooks resigned as S. S. Superintendent after a service of eight consecutive years. November. Some church trials and exclusions. December. More delinquents and one exclu- sion. 1896. January finds G. 0. Wilhoit pastor. One more exclusion. Bro. H. M. Efird joined by letter from Palmerville where he had attended school. April. B. P. Murray joined by letter from River Baptist Church 95 Norwood. May. T. B. Goodman, J. C. Carpenter and wife, sister M. E. Carpenter granted letters to unite with Polkton church. June. E. M. Brooks conducted services in the absence of the pastor. No 'business. July. Rev. C. R. Hairfield, a ministerial stu- dent from Wake Forest preached. "Note. Brother Hairfield is 1 supplying for Bro. Wilhoit during the summer on account of his health not being good." Bro. Hairfield after graduation soon accepted work in a Texas col- lege and was never among us again. The people held him in the highest regards. October. J. E. Efird, J. W. Burns and Cecil Teal appointed delegates to the Association. G. 0. Wilhoit again called for 1897; "provided his health fails we will accept Rev. C. R. Hairfield as supply." 1897. The year opens with Bro. Wilhoit serv- ing as pastor. February and March. "No conferences on account of high waters. Clerk." July Meeting. Pastor assisted by Charles T. Ball. Eight joined by baptism and two by letter. Bro. Ball was located on a field in Anson and at this time was living in Morven. He soon moved to Wadesboro and became joint editor of one of the county papers, though continuing to serve churches. September. Preston Hogan received by letter from Bethel church, Montgomery County. Bro. Ball elected pastor for next year. Time changed to 4th Sabbaths in order to adjust the work on the Field. November 4th Saturday. Brother James Mc- Ray, of Wadesboro, filled Bro. Ball's appointment. History of The Rocky 1898. Pastor Ball enters his second pastoral year. March. W. H. Bivens and G. W. Nash elected deacons. May Conference. At this conference brother J. E. Efird read a letter from Pleasant Hill church, Union County, requesting the ordination of E. M. Brooks to the ministry as he had been supplying them for some time. This request was granted and the 5th Sunday in July set as the date. Rev. J. Q. Adams and C. T. Ball composed the Presby- tery and the ordination took place Wednesday, August the 3rd, 1898, which was one of the week days towards the close of the revival. During the week the Free Scholarship in the Pee Dee Institute was given to Cecil Teal and he entered that fall. Also, "E. M. Brooks was requested to get up all the facts he could in re- gard to the early history of this church." August. The following united with the church and were baptized on Sunday: S. M. Efird, J. D. High, Emmerson High, Mary High, and Leona McLendon. September. Sisters Rosanna High, of Beaver Dam (Marshviile), and Lucy Teal, from Red Hill, joined. Bro. Ball having resigned, the church set a called meeting for the 2nd Sunday. Pastor Ball seems to have served till June 1899, when B. H. Matthews took charge and continued through 1901. 1900. February Conference. E. G. Waddell resigned as clerk and D. L. Thompson elected to take his place. 1900. May Conference. Painting of the church reported finished at a cost of $67.60. 1901. October Conference. B. H. Matthews River Baptist Church 97 resigned as pastor and E. M. Brooks granted a letter to unite with Union Grove church, Stanly County. 1901, December. Rev. C. J. Black takes charge as pastor. 1902. Bro. Black is still pastor. In June of this year an organ is mentioned for the first time. There was a fruitful meeting this year. Brother Black was a great revivalist here as every where he served. The following joined this year: Wal- ter Nance, Paul Efird, Hufham Bivens, Marcus Mills, Robert H. Thomas, Lorena Woodard, Esther Mills and Pearle Caudle. 1905. Rev. J. L. Bennett enters his second pastorate here. Serves only one year. 1906. Rev. G. 0. Wilhoit takes care of the church for one year. 1907. Rev. R. D. Redfearn becomes pastor. At the May conference some matter concerning the Pee Dee Institute was postponed. It was proba'bly the question of suspending the Institute and selling the property to the State for a graded school. Rev. Josiah Crudup aided in the meeting. October. Bro. W. H. Bivens and family grant- ed letters as they were moving near Cottonville, Stanly county. December. J. T. Garris and D. L. Thompson elected deacons. 1908. Bro. Redfearn continues as pastor. Rev. T. W. Chambliss assisted in protracted meeting in July. Results good as follows : Ramon McSwain, Henry Baker, Jr., Willie Helms, Annie Efird, Bon- nie Efird, Bettie McSwain, Lillie Ramsey, Fannie Lee Hyatt, Marie Hancock joined by baptism. From December, 1908 to 1919 the records give but little information. D. L. Thompson drops out as clerk. The pastors through this period 98 History of The Rocky of eleven years were thought to be somewhat in the following order: 1909 to 1910, E. C. Snider; 1911 to 1912, J. W. Nobles; 1913 to 1918, unknown; 1919 to 1921, C. C. Burris; 1922 A. C. Davis; 1923 to 1924, E. C. Snider; 1925, possibly C. H. Martin; 1926, J. S. Tyson ; 1927, E. M. Brooks. This ends the hours, even days, among the "Minutes." River Baptist Church 99 DIRECTORY Here will be gathered for convenient refer- ence in Listed or Tabulated form items of inter- est concerning Pastors, Deacons, Church Clerks, Visiting Ministers of Prominence, and other Worthwhile Matters, and last of all Copy of the Oldest Church Roll and a Completed Roll brought well night up to date. Pastors — With Date of Service. 1776 to 1790 No Record 1790 Edmond Lilly 1791 to 1841 John Culpeper, Sr. 1841 S. P. Morton 1842-1844 William A. Morris 1845 Dwight Hayes 1846-1874 S. P. Morton (2nd time) 1875 C. C. Foreman 1876-1877 A. C. Davis 1878-1879 E. L. Davis 1880 J. W. Pbifer 1881-1888 " G. 0. Wilhoit 1889-1890 Augustus Marsh 1891-1892 A. C. Davis 1893 J. L. Bennett 1894-1897 G. O. Wilhoit (2nd time) 1898-1899 C. T. Ball 1900-1901 B. H. Matthews 1902-1904 C. J. Black 1905 J. L. Bennett (2nd time) 1906 G. O. Wilhoit (3rd time) 1907-1908 R. D. Redfearn 1909-1910 E. C. Snider 1911-1912 J. W. Nobles 100 History of The Rocky 1913-1918 J. A. Summey 1919-1921 C. C. Burris 1922 A. C. Davis (3rd time) 1923-1924 E. C. Snider (2nd time) 1925 C. M. Martin (not sure) 1926 J. S. Tyson 1927 E. M. Brooks, present pastor (1928) It will be seen from the above list that the church had 22 known pastors. Of these there were three long termers — John Culpeper 50 years ; S. P. Morton 29 years; G. 0. Wilhoit 13 years, making a total of 92 years, or more than half the church's history. The Deacons and Clerks. Deacons : John Allen W. H. Bivens James Benton G. W. Nash Robert N Allen E G . Wadde n Uriah Staton J. E. Efird J * i " (jarris J. W. Burns D - L - Thompson Clerks : Wyatt Nance Resigned, 1828 Amon Yarborough Moved to Ala. 1832 James Benton 1832-1842 W. J. Williams 1842-1844 James Broadaway 1844-1875 S. H. McLendon 1878-1882 W. H. Bivens 1883-1887 E. M. Brooks 1888-1898 E. G. Waddell 1899 D. L. Thompson __ 1900 Earle Thompson "_ 1919 — There were possibly more deacons and clerks than the records show. The gap between 1900 and 1919 in the list of clerks was partly filled River Baptist Church 101 by B. E. Staton, C. L. Waddell and others, but the records were so indefinite the writer could not tabulate them. Visiting Prominent ministers and preached on special Jonathan Davis Jonathan Wilkinson James M. Thomas Samuel Ducenberry Jesse Wheeler N. B. Cobb J. B. Richardson J. R. Griffith Edmond Morton J. J. McLendon W. G. Rollins Ministers. who visited the church occasions : John E. King W. B. Harrell N. R. Pittman H. W. Battle P. H. Parnell J. K. Fant J. F. Love T. S. Wright James Long P. C. Connelly The following is the old church Roll as it was in 1828 — one hundred years ago. It is given just as it appears on the book. It is not arranged in alphabetical order. White Males: John Culpeper James Atkins Jeremiah Smith William Benton Wiyat Nance John Brooks Amon Yarborough John Beverly Thomas Allen John Allen William Carpenter Joseah Ponds Abia Atkins Robertson Pistole Charles Taylor John Gilbert Joel Ledbetter Richard Stoker Job Calloway John Curlee Isaac Bayles Jonathan McDonald John Watson Bryan Jones White Females 102 History of The Rocky Amy Marshall Sarah Avet Sary Thompson Sary Sparks Sophia Ingram Elizabeth Lilly Mary Culpeper Sarah Lee Elizabeth Pistole Patsy Allen Elizabeth Yarborough Nancy Allen Sarah Benton Seley Benton Mary Benton Nicey Moore Sarah Edwards Macey Lee Mary Ponds ,. Faney Beverly Milly Dixson Elizabeth Goodson Nancy Watson Patsy Watson Mary Sasser Lydia Ledbetter Catherine Bowman Susanna Baucomb Elizabeth Calloway Black Hany Clark Ralf Freeman Dartor Solomon Legrand's Thomas Lillies Jack Dumas's Moses Lanier's Toney Patsy Forrest Elizabeth Forrest Sely Howell Sarah Huckaby Nancy McDaniel Patsy Palmer Sarah Sikes Mary Hudson Patsy Smith Anna Smith Celey Folks Sally Randle Sarah Creps Taylor Jane Weaver Jones Nancy Ragsdale Sinthea Clenny Woodward Abigail Caudle Elizabeth Davis Seley Turner Rhoda Reimer Mary Stoker Rachal Beverly Elizabeth Billingly Rebecca Sikes Pheneby Brantly Males : Steel's Joe N. Hearn's Bill Ingram's Davey Capel's Jacob Rusel's Abraham Staton's Mack Wyatt Nance's River Baptist Church 103 Watson's Daniel Black Candice Lillie' Judey Hogan's Sally Nance's Lucky Lanier's Nelly Hough's Pleasant Genny Freeman Mendingal's Ginna Boggan's Darkes Dargan's Cate Voluntine's Hannah Threadgil's Cassle Randol's Judith Benjamin Females : Wm Lee's Rose Moses's Vilet Ingram's Presilla Elizabeth Davis's Aely Mask's Lucida Lucy Ingram's Molly Bro. Uriah Staton's Betty Fred Staton's Sarah U. Staton's Mariah The following is a later list including heads of families who once were members but long since dead. Males : Jones, Alexander Allen, David Allen, Robert N. Allen, W. H. Avitt, Thomas Avitt, John Barber, Noah Baucom, Wiley Broadaway, Jeremiah Broadaway, James Broadaway, Hartwell Broadaway, James M. Bryant, Ransom Brooks, Cullen Burleyson, Jonathan Boswell, Alexander Burns, J. W. Culpeper, John, Jr. Jones, Wiley Kendall, H. D. Lee, Shepard Lee, Simeon Lilly, Armistead McLendon, S. H. McLendon, John Mask, James G. Morton, S. P. Morton, G. A. Newsom, Ephriam Nash, G. W. Parker, J. B. Pistol, Edward Poplin, Richard 104 History of The Rocky River Baptist Churcfi Curlee, Mariner Curlee, William Crump, George Dargan, William Davis, D. D. Davis, Hampton Hill, J. P. Hill, Julius Hancock, Devotion Howard, Myrick Howard, Malichi Hudson, Even Hudson, Joshua Hooks, Andrew A Roll Polly Allen Eliza Allen Nancy Avitt Louisa Brooks Frances Burns Louisa Crump Elizabeth Davis Annie Efird Cornelia Goodman Leah Hancock Ann M. Harris Jane Lee Eliza Lee Poplin, J. F. Porter, Alexander Ramsey, Clement Ramsey, Stark Staton, Uriah Staton, B. E. Staton, Ennis Smith, Thomas Tolson, Carey Turner, Ausborn Tomlinson, J. M. Tyson, Uriah Williams, W. J. Waddell, W. A. our Mothers: Rowena Lee "Margaret Lanier Dolly Lanier Sofronia McLendon Ann Morton Sallie Perry Rhoda Staton Eliza Teal Eliza Turner Martha J. Turner Laura Turner Lucy Waddell Date Due FORM 335 45M 10-41 Div.S. 286 B873H 121606