Robert W. Woodruff
Library
EMORY UNIVERSITY
Special Collections & Archives
REV. R. J. JOHNSON,
Pastor of Four Churches, Treasurer of Walker Association, and
Author of This Book.
HISTORY
OF
Walker Baptist Association
OF GEORGIA
That the generation to come might know them, even the children
which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their
children.
—Psalms 78 : 6.
AUGUSTA, GA.:
Chronicle Job Print,
1909
DEDICATION
To God and His Kingdom and to The Struggling Students
and Graduates of Walker Baptist Institute, is
This Book Dedicated by the Author.
PREFACE.
History is the record of the doings of a people, compiled
in after years, along with whatever deductions may be
drawn from the oral or written accounts of the time and
people under consideration. It is far more important than
present or prospective events, because it is concerned in
many cases with the doings of our ancestors, and is loaded
with the memory of those who in earlier years, laid the foun¬
dation in hope of what we see today as an established fact.
History is generally made and passed over with no spe¬
cial foresight as to its future importance. With progressive _
people, events crowd in so and pass with such rapidity, that
memory seeks in vain to recall them when the significance
they bore and the lessons they taught,, are needed for the
accomplishment of further good.
But when in after years, amid the rise and fall of things,
temporal or spiritual, the past becomes sacred, and those of
us who live to stand on those foundations grow exceedingly
anxious to know something of the hands that laid them, and
the motive that prompted their course; the demand for a
record in readable shape becomes imperitive.
Then, too, the triumph of those efforts put forth in a
darker day than ours, and carried on amid the keenest suf¬
fering, always lend joy and give pleasure to those who de¬
light in' the achievements of others. Perhaps no better rea¬
son can be given for the long lease on life allowed the Patri¬
archs than that they had to transmit to the unborn genera¬
tions facts concerning man, and facts concerning God and
the order of events as they had to do with truth.
'By this method these facts have been so well told that
a morning's walk will take the anxious seeker after truth
5
back among the Pyramids of Egypt, and a day's journey will
sit you down in the Garden of Eden, where you may wit¬
ness the doing of the most unfortunate crime that lies at the
door of man.
In keeping with a long established custom, and by re¬
quest of the Fortieth Anniversary meeting of Walker Bap-
tist Association, held with Macedonia Baptist Church,
Augusta, Ga., September, 1908, I have this day set out to
compile and put in readable shape some of the important
doings of Walker Baptist Association from its organization,
A. D., 1868, to the present time, a period of forty-one years.
This account may meet objections here and there, more
on account of what it does not record, than because of the
incorrectness of the things stated. For this, however, there
is no remedy, on account of the fact that many of the printed
minutes of the Association, covering an important part of
the years of its life, is not on file, and many of those we have
do not give with any degree of fullness the account of those
things important to this generation.
Being fully conscious of the imperfections of this work,
I submit it to the public with the hope that any discrepency
in merit may be overcome by the readers' willingness to ac¬
cord to my first effort a degree of fairness in not presenting
to the public an overdrawn account of the actual accomplish¬
ments of an Association and School that lies very close to
my heart. R. J. JOHNSON.
Augusta,, Ga., May, 1909.
6
CHAPTER i—SECTION i.
ORGANIZATION AND LOCALITY.
Walker Baptist Association was organized in the fall of
A. D., 1868, at a meeting of representatives of seven distinct
churches held with Ways Grove Baptist Church, Stellaville,
Jefferson County, /Ga., and is, therefore, one of the oldest as¬
sociations in the state. Franklin Covenant Church, four miles
southeast of Hephzibah, Ga., being the only separate and dis¬
tinct negro church in the Hephzibah Association (white), it
was thought expedient to organize others, with colored mem¬
bers holding fellowship with the several white churches of
the Hephzibah Association, so that they could constitute,,
when associated together, a body sufficiently broad in its
scope to occupy, as far as possible, the same territory cov¬
ered by the Hephzibah Association. It is not known whose
heart the Lord first touched to bring about this happy result,
(but it appears that the understanding among the white and
colored brethren was both mutual and expedient.
Dr. W. L. Kilpatrick (white), in his "History of Hephzi¬
bah Association," says: "But in the case of the Walker As¬
sociation the individual members withdrew from their re¬
spective churches, so as to form new churches, with, a view
to making another association, occupying, as far as neces¬
sary, the same geographical limits as the Hephzibah Associa¬
tion."
Today the Walker Association practically covers Rich¬
mond, Burke, Jefferson and Jenkins Counties, with quite a
large number of churches scattered here and there in Screven,
Emanuel, Johnson and Columbia Counties. Seven churches
constituted the Association at the time of its organization,
all of them of the country districts; so that whatever may be
accomplished by the Association, it can never be said that
the movement had its beginning among the cultured and re¬
fined city element, who now form such an important part of
the constituency.
7
THE NOBLE SEVEN.
The best information obtainable gives us the following"
seven churches that entered into the organization at Ways
Grove, A. D., 1868: Ways Grove, Franklin Covenant, Smith
Grove, McKinnie Branch, Hopeful, Noah's Ark, Springfield,
Jefferson County. These, like the "Seven Churches of Asia,"
had resting upon them a very great responsibility. They were
not only few, but far between. These first messengers, in
the absence of railroads and other facilities that make travel
in our day both easy and convenient, had to undergo many
serious disadvantages to reach the place of meeting. Their
zeal for the cause which they represented and the thought of
the liberty recently obtained made the distance easy. They
'returned home with a consciousness of having performed an
important duty to their denomination, their race, and their
God. When the question arose as to what should be the
name of this new Association, the name of Rev. Joseph Wal¬
ker (deceased), former pastor of Franklin Covenant Church,
was suggested, and the Association was accordingly named
Walker Baptist Association. The name oi this great man
will not appear among the "Fallen Heroes," so that a few
word's spoken here with reference to him would 'be timely and
in place. As this man lived, labored, and died before the
present generation, what is said of him in "Kilpatrick's His¬
tory of Hephzibah Association," is worthy of our special at¬
tention. Hear him: "Rev. Joe Walker proved by his life that
he was truly called of God to do the work upon which he
had entered. He was ever heard both with pleasure and
profit ^y all, white and black, and was universally esteemed
for his many Christian graces."
These commendable word's, from the pen of a white
brother who knew him personally, is a fair illustration of the
spirit of those bygone years; when the white brethren of
Hephzibah not only took interest, but pride, in the Walker
Association. The rapid and pleasing growth of the Walker
Association, from every conceivable standpoint, accounts for
the fact-that the relation between the two Associations is not
8
REV. NATHAN WALKER,
Second Moderator, and Father of Walker Association.
so evident as in the days of the pioneers; and yet, there is
abundant proof, sufficient to justify the conclusion that eter¬
nity alcfne will vanish those noble and like characteristics of
the two bodies which betrayed their former alliance. The
leaders of Walker Association have made no attempt to for¬
get these things; for even now the home-Jborn offsprings of
each of the Associations could never 'be guilty of the sin of
Cain.
The constituents of Walker Association are mostly farm¬
ers, whose hands are tied to the soil, but they dug from the
stubborn fields sufficient wealth to establish and maintain an
institution that is full worthy of the name it bears. With
these people religion and its fruits are far more important
than other things which promise nothing beyond the grave.
Of course, they have a keen sense of the importance and
power of wealth, for they are hundreds within the bounds
of the Association who own homes, and are producers of
wealth as well as lovers of righteousness.
THE FIRST OFFICERS—1868.
In the absence of any adequate system of book-keeping,
it is impossible to give with any degree of fullness an account
of the first meeting at Ways Grove Church, Stellaville; but
Rev. Peter Walker was chosen Moderator, Brother Edward
Young as' Clerk, and Brother Charles Young as Treasurer.
Rev. Peter Walker was (Moderator for only one year. He
declined re-election at Covenant Church in 1869 in favor of
his senior, Rev. N. Walker. Of course, the Clerk elected was
not sufficiently educated to take the records, but this service
was performed by one of the white brethren present. It ap¬
pears that these early minutes were not printed, but placed
in the "Archives" of the Association to be preserved.
We are, therefore, deprived of a rich treasury, so to us
now any note from those distant and receding years would
be thrilling to our hearts. Every utterance would be pressed
hard for its significance, and every prayer would have a
deeper meaning to those who behold the actual realization of
9
what was once an untried and not altogether popular under¬
taking. These were happy times. Happy over the rising
sun of liberty; happy over the prospects of development such
as the benighted minds craved for; happy, yes, real happy
because there had come to them, in a large measure, real soul
liberty. At that first meeting no instrument touched by
skilled hands assisted in the praise; nothing but human
voices sang the old but still sacred tones. Tones that thrilled
and moved them to tears, and for which many of our hearts
still pine.
1869.
In 1869 the Association held its Second Annual Session
with Franklin Covenant Church, near Hephzibah, which was
its only old and well established church, it having been or¬
ganized in A. D., 1849. This must have been a glorious meet¬
ing, assembled on ground made sacred by the prayers of the
fathers as they toiled far into the night, hewing timber for
their comely house of worship.
Those who in previous years had been favored with
some knowledge of books, took the lead and began to dis¬
seminate light and truth to minds shrouded in ignorance.
The timid action of those who were wanted to take upon
themselves the responsibilities of leadership made the neces¬
sity for education everywhere apparent. To overcome these
trying difficulties, many meetings were planned, having for
their primary object the training of men for the responsible
positions that would naturally be created as the churches
gtew and the Association strengthened.
At that meeting Rev. Peter Walker declined re-election,,
and Rev. Nathan Walker was made Moderator. No other
changes were made in the officers of the Association. Here,
again, the same white brethren were present to steer the
course of her young but flourishing child or sister. What¬
ever you might call it, these are the best terms I know that
will properly express the kind of relation that existed be¬
tween the two bodies.
10
Here Rev. Jesse Whitfield came to the Association as a
messenger from Watkinsville Baptist Church, which was ap¬
plying for membership in the body. A fight was made on
Brother Whitfield and his church on account of some little
irregularities, but he was tided over by the kindly assistance
of a few older heads. The prayers offered and the songs
sung, all looked to a brighter day in the future when a race,
long enslaved, could, with the help of God, produce among
themselves the character and learning that would fit them
for a higher usefulness.
1870.
The Association met at Bothsford Church, in Burke Co.;
though some claim that it was A. D., 1869. The officers
elected were as follows: Moderator, Rev. N. Walker; Clerk,
Rev. Jason Hickman; Treasurer, Brother Troope Harrison.
Again the records show that the white brethren were present,
and not only present, but praying and preaching the Gospel
as well. The showing made during that session was com¬
mendable. The cause of Mission was not state or world¬
wide, but locally received much attention. Sunday Schools
were encouraged, and special emphasis laid on the import¬
ance of gathering up the young. It will be remembered, how¬
ever, that early after the emancipation "Webster's Blue Back
Speller" had a more prominent place in many Sunday Schools
than the Bible, for the reason that they could not read the
Bible until they had for a foundation some knowledge of
other books. Bottsford's Church has always been one of the
most loyal churches of the Association, and has had a large
hand in its development. We have no record of the finances
,of the Association. It would be interesting to know whether
ithey equalled or surpassed the efforts of the present genera¬
tion, taking under consideration, of course, their financial,
numerical and intellectual condition. But we wade on
through the darkness hastening to the time that is full of
achievements almost matchless and unbelievable.
11
1871.
In September, 1871, the Association met with Noah's Ark
Church, located near the center of Burke County. Delegates
representing more than a dozen churches were present. The
same officers were re-elected except Treasurer. Brother
Abram Thomas was elected Treasurer. It might be of in¬
terest here to acquaint the reader of some of the prominent
leaders of that time, such as Revs. E. Crumbly, H. Ports, R.
Whitfield, P. Walker, R. Kelsey, Jason Hickman, E. Young,
and other lesser lights, who since then have developed into
pastors and leaders of ability. The following Associations
sent correspondents, namely: Hephzibah, Ebernezer, Middle
Georgia, Zions, Georgia and Shiloh. They were all welcome
and accorded such privileges as they desired.
We are a little surprised to find that the Missionary Bap¬
tist Convention of Georgia did not enjoy the sympathy of the
Association at this time, for the record shows that the fol¬
lowing resolution was passed without opposition: "Resolved,
That while we are not willing to do anything to divide the
Colored Baptists of Georgia, we are not yet prepared to unite
with the Missionary Baptist Convention of Georgia, but hold
ourselves ready to do so whenever we can see that by so doing
we can promote the Colored man's good." Perhaps this was
one of the reasons why not only outsiders, but also members
of prominence in the Association called it "A Democratic As¬
sociation," meaning, of course, that it was organized and op¬
erated to do the bidding of the former masters, and was,
therefore, to say the least, not properly interested in the in¬
tellectual independence and development of the race; but we
take further notice of these charges and how they were suc¬
cessfully met in another chapter.
We note again that the Association had a regular mis¬
sionary in her bounds, whose duty it was to organize churches
and to assist them in the establishment of public as well as
Sunday Schools. At the close of the first year of effort along
this line only $24.50 had been collected from the people, while
the Treasurer had paid $196.25, leaving a balance due of
12
$79.18. These figures show that the salary of the Missionary,
as fixed by the Association, must have been exactly $300 per
year. The reader will observe that these figures show up well
in the light of the opportunities of that age. The responsibili¬
ties of the Missionary of that day were far greater than they
are now, especially in this section of our country; for, with
the greatly increased intelligence of our pastors and people,
the proper discipline and management of churches is not at all
difficult. Rev. L. B. Carter was the first Missionary, and 'he
received on salary all of the $253.16 raised at the session of
1870, except the amount paid for the printing of iMinutes.
1872.
This year the Association assembled at Needful Baptist
Church, two miles north of Millen. Of the long and useful
life of this church, we may read on another page. This was
a very fruitful meeting, fruitful in sentiment for the better¬
ment of the condition of our people; and also fruitful in the
gathering of means for the pushing of educational and mis¬
sionary work of the Association.
The Association met on Saturday, but the reason for the
change is not apparent. A strong appeal in the interest of
education created some interest, but, as yet, such speeches
simply created sentiment among a people who were wanted
to launch in a few years an institution that would be perma¬
nent and worthy of the efforts of a struggling people.
13
CHAPTER 2.
ON THROUGH THE YEARS—1873.
The session of 1873 was held with Pine Hill Church, Jef¬
ferson County. The small fragment of the Minutes of this
meeting are all that were left to give us any definite informa¬
tion. We read of a few enthusiastic sermons and addresses,
delivered mostly by young men, for here a new recruit from
different sections are very much in evidence, their talent serv¬
ing to prove the wonderful possibilities of the young, whose
day was so much brighter than that of their unlettered fathers.
With these evidences of the real good to be accomplished
by an enlightened manhood, the establishment of a "first-
class school" appeared more than a dream. Missionaries from
the State Convention 'began to find their way to the meeting
of the Association, and is worthy of note that they were not
only accorded many privileges, but were given handsome do-
rations for the work they represented, without regard to the
crying need of the people at our own doors.
We are obliged to believe that confidence in God and
faith in the people made possible a lively hope, that what
others had already achieved, were somewhere in store for
them. The efforts of these men_were very fruitful, but in that
day it appears that, as a rule, Missionaries had to preach be¬
fore taking a collection. This, however, was not exacted.
The fact is, in those times the Missionary was considered the
biggest man at the meeting—a kind of Baptist elder, critic and
teacher. In short, he was over the pastors, but today he is
under him.
1874.
The Association met at Hopeful Baptist Church, Burke
County, in 1874. This is according co the best information
obtainable. No change was made in the officers of the As¬
sociation. We are informed at that meeting things grew a
little warm among the brethren, and a part of that session
was stormy. This church withdrew from the Association soon
after this meeting.-
14
1875.
In 1875 the Association assembled with Pine Hill Baptist
Church, Burke County, a few miles southwest of Waynesboro,
Ga. As we trace the movement of the Association we note
that Pine Hill has always been one of the most loyal daugh¬
ters of the Association. Here Rev. Henry Walker preached
the introductory sermon from Acts 4:13,, "Now when they
saw the boldness of Peter and John and perceived that they
were, unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled and they
took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus." The
same officers were elected, namely: N. Walker, Moderator;
T. J. Hornsby, Clerk, and C. H. Thompson, Treasurer. The
St. Clair and Macedonia Churches of. Burke County united
with the Association by letter.
At this meeting complaint was made against delinquent
churches, who, for some cause, failed to send letter or mes¬
senger to the Association. A special committee, consisting of
Brothers C. H. Thompson, C. Hankinson, D. Wilkerson, M.
Cooper and H. Ports, were appointed to visit all absent
churches and find out the cause of their failure to be repre¬
sented.
After some lengthy and interesting speeches, the Asso¬
ciation agreed to go into the "Missionary Baptist Convention
of Georgia," and Revs. N. Walker, P. Walker, R. Whitehead,
H. Ports, Robert Kelsey and Alfred Young were appointed
delegates to the next meeting. The delegates were given $20.
Thomas Grove Church was granted a letter of dismission.
We then give in full the report of Rev. Peter Walker: "Visits
fo sick, 10; Prayer Meetings attended, 20; Deacons Ordained,
2: Preachers Ordained, 1; Licensed, 1; Sermons Preached, 41;
Sabbath School Lectures, 16; Lectures on Church Discipline,
16; /Baptized, 17; Attended six Protracted Meetings. We
visited four General Meetings, one Ministers' and Deacons'
Meeting, five funerals, organized four Sunday Schools, two
Day Schools. Finances: Received from churches $26.65,
from the treasurer $41; and travelled 988 miles."
15
So ends a remarkable report, covering almost every phase
of usefulness to which a minister of the Gospel could apply
his time and talent.
GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS.
Public schools were being established here and there in
the churches by the state and being supplied with white
teachers, but they were not crowded as they are today, for
the reason that thousands were hopeless as to the possibili¬
ties of the negro, and were, therefore, lax in what appeared
to the more intelligent a plain duty to themselves and their
children.
This condition greatly increased the work of the Mis¬
sionary, whose real task was made harder in the absence of
minds sufficiently expanded to grasp the great truths of the
Bible.
The report of J. C. Hickman on education, which we give
below, will throw some light on the situation. It runs as fol¬
lows : "The cause of education is growing a little, but greater
interest is needed. We urge that an effort be made to have a
Day School in every church where there is no school, and in
every neighborhood where there is no church."
It might be of some interest here to name the small num¬
ber of ministers composing the association at this time, viz.:
Revs. Nathan Walker, Peter Walker, Stepney Martin, Robert
Whitehead, Cyrus Kelley, Alfred Young, Ed Crumbly, Jason
Hickman, Frank Cooper, Robert Kelsey, Emanuel Dickerson,
Lewis Kelsey, Moses Cooper, H. Ports, Henry Walker, Peter
Neely and Paul Cooper.
1876.
The next meeting of the Association was held with New
Springfield Church, Burke County, about twelve miles east
of Waynes'boro. The venerable Moderator took his seat and
ordered a special prayer service.
Twenty-five churches were represented by letters and
messengers, and about $170 was sent up in letters. The pub¬
lic collections, however, swelled this amount to about $213
16
S. N. VASS, D. D.,
President Walker Baptist Institute.
before the close of the meeting. The letters also showed a
total membership of 3,220.
It is difficult to trace during the seventies who filled the
position of Treasurer of the Association.
Nothing of special interest appears in this year's minutes.
Most of the time was devoted to sermons, reports and reso¬
lutions, the latter coming forth from the young men in abund¬
ant supply. The young men whose aspirations were noble
spent much time and talent framing resolutions, which their
associates delighted to lay on the table. But above all, there
was one great good accomplished, for they were gaining a
knowledge of parliamentary law, besides developing a Chris¬
tian courage, which in after years fitted them for the tremen¬
dous task of operating among themselves a school of influ¬
ence and real worth for the free children of a once enslaved
people.
1877.
In 1877 the Association met with Ways Grove Church,
Stellaville, Jefferson County. The Minutes of this meeting
could not be found, and so we are left in darkness as to what
this meeting actually accomplished. Some of our readers
might be able to recall some of the transactions of that meet¬
ing; but, as far as the writer knows, the mist is too dark to
penetrate. We are sure that they met and took up with re¬
newed vigor the causes of education and mission. We have
talked with some of the older brethren about this meeting,
but the distant past to them is like a summer dream. It looms
up as one great whole, like a moss-covered mountain hoary
with age, but holding beneath its crushing weight the best
efforts of a departed but consecrated youth. We listen in
vain for some voice from the tomb that joined in the inspir¬
ing services of that year, but we are left without a record, a
voice, or inspiration to point to that meeting which must have
been filled with increasing interest on account of increased
strength-and the visible signs of«ultimate success in one of the
greatest undertakings ever born in a black man's mind.
17
CHAPTER 3.
PERIOD FROM 1878 TO 1888.
1878.
In 1878, ten years after the organization, they were called
to meet with Franklin Covenant Church, which was, as we
have stated, the oldest church of the body. It was on the 20th
day of September. A large and influential delegation from
the Hephzibah Association was present at the opening ses¬
sion, viz.: Revs. W. L. Kilpatrick, W. H. Davis, E. R. Cars-
well, and Brethren A. W. Roades, J. S. Bynes, H. Williams
and D. C. Blount.
The introductory sermon was preached by Rev. Lewis
Kelsey from Matthew 3:1-2-3.
But what was the meaning of these regular visits of the
white brethren to the meetings of Walker Association? We
have already shown that they, were deeply concerned in the
welfare of the colored brethren, not only because they had
been members of the Hephzibah Association while members
of the white churches, but they were also personally inter¬
ested in the personnel of the body. There were quite a num¬
ber of colored members in the white churches of Hephzibah
Association before emancipation, for "Kilpatrick's History"
says that in 1847 their minutes showed that there were in
'-that Association: Whites, 688, and blacks, 748; negro ma¬
jority, 60. Conferences were held in all the churches for the
colored. We have an almost overpowering inclination kere
tc turn aside and indulge in a little comment on the inherent
loyalty of the present generation, growing largely, as we be¬
lieve, from their long training in that code of Christian ethics
sc thoroughly taught to our fathers, from whom we received
our religion and our training. We are told, too, that as soon
as freedom's dawn the question arose in a meeting of the
Hephzibah Association as to the status of the negro mem¬
bers in the churches. The committee to whom this intricate
problem was referred, made a very lengthy report, which we
18
give in another chapter, but it is sufficient to state here that
the white brethren agreed to "kindly and affectionately offer
their services to the brethren to aid and assist them."
At this meeting Franklin Covenant Church called upon
the Association to decide whether "Walking Egypt" was
scriptural. This was a kind of "holy dance," usually indulged
in as a kind of after service, in which, the members marched
around and kept time to some kind of religious song, led by
one known as the "songster." In that day it was somewhat
difficult to get a good crowd to attend the "plantation prayer
meetings" unless they were assured of a good "songster," and
ample time to indulge in "Egypt Walking."
After the committee's report was read and a heated dis¬
cussion in open session, the Association decided that such a
form of worship should not only be condemned, but prohibited
irj the churches.
WALKER HIGH SCHOOL, AND HER FIRST DOLLAR.
At this meeting of the Association the body agreed to
devote Saturday night's session to a discussion of plans for
the starting of the school. A drenching rain prohibited the
body from carrying out its purpose, but three churches had
remembered the proposed school and had sent up in their
letters $i. The three churches sending up this amount were
Harper Grove, Rev. James Ivelsey pastor, 25c.; Kelsey Chapel,
Rev. James Kelsey, pastor, 50c., and Murphey Ebenezer, 25c.
Rev. C. Kelley was pastor of the last named church.
Here, too, we run across the appointment of the first Ex¬
ecutive Board, consisting of the following, viz.: Revs. M.
Cooper, J. J. Davis, R. Kelsey, T. Martin, A. Young, A. W.
Farmer, H. Walker, T. J. Hornsby, and Brethren D. J. Whig-
ham, D. Dickerson, T. Key, J. Mitchell, J. Jenkins, J. Lovett
and S. B. Sapp. For some reason, not given, Pine Hill, Burke
County, was granted a letter of dismission. We quote the re¬
port of the committee on education, prepared and read by Rev.
C. T. Walker, as follows:
19
"We, your committee to whom was referred the matter
of education, beg leave to submit the following report:
"We hail with gratitude the great work which has been
done among our people. A great many places which has been
destitute are now rapidly advancing, and have made very
commendable progress. We are not reluctant to acknowl¬
edge the great good which has been done 'by the students of
the Augusta Institute. While many poor people have made
commendable progress, we are sorry to say that many remain
indifferent and lukewarm. Education refines and builds up a
people, but ignorance is their ruin. Who would not shun
such a monster as this ignorance? Ignorance is the mother
of no good thing. Ignorance is the mother of shame and sup¬
erstition; yes, prejudice, envy, blasphemy and every other
thing which is destined to ruin a people. Oh! let us all earn¬
estly and eagerly fight against this great enemy of our people.
"Ignorance has invaded the church of God and done its
work there. Our people bow under his slavish chains. Let
us have education, which is light and an avenue into the great
fountain of truth,, revealed and unrevealed. Ignorance is to
education as night is to day. When our committee shall see
all our people enjoying education, then we shall say: 'Now
mine eyes have seen thy salvation, now let thy servant de¬
part in peace.'
"We commend with heartfelt thanks the efforts of the
Association to erect a High School in its bounds for the edu¬
cation of'its young people. Our prayer is, God-grant its suc¬
cess. We would recommend that such steps be taken as
would push forward more rapidly this laudable enterprise.
God help us! He knows we are His poor; and we ask Him
to grant us an educated ministry, and we will sing the new
song.
"We long for the time to come when the Walker Baptist
Association shall stretch forth her wings, when her sons and
daughters shall be educated. We further recommend to our
20
brethren that they remember the Augusta Institute at Au¬
gusta, Ga., under the auspices of the 'Home Mission Society
of New York.' This institution, conducted by Rev. J. T. Rob¬
erts, LL. D., is doing a noble work. We ask our brethren to
do all they can to carry out the proposed plan to erect a High
School in our midst. Your committee would urge this upon
every member of this Association. We advise the churches
tc help their pastors attend this school and to look out those
who are looking forward to the ministry. Education will raise
from degredation to elevation. Yea, to the stage of intelli¬
gence, to activity and respectability."
Thus we have an expression of the mind of the Associa¬
tion regarding education thirty years ago.
The Sunday Schools were under direct management of
the Association. The Association appointed districts agents,.
whose duty it was to organize new schools, hold concerts and
make full reports to the annual meetings. The report at this
meeting showed 74 teachers, 1,308 pupils, and $23.40 sent for
education and mission.
1879.
In 1879 the Association met with the Macedonia Baptist
Church, Lawtonville, Rev. Robert Relsey, pastor. Rev. A.
Young preached the introductory sermon, accompanied by
Rev. Thomas Martin. Rev. Martin was, perhaps, the most
popular minister of his time among the masses.
Thirty-four churches were represented by letter and mes¬
senger, the same officers re-elected and a harmonious session
begun. We note that the supply of ministers such as the peo¬
ple craved to hear were not numerous, so that we find the
same men preaching every year. Rev. R. Whitehead preached
the missionary sermon. The total collection for that meeting
was $306.20. All this time the trustees were planning and
praying for the work. "We must do something!" was the con-
siant cry of those who recognized the pressing need of educa¬
tion among the people. We note nothing of importance,, un¬
like other things already told concerning previous meetings.
21
i88o.
Bottsford Church is the next place of meeting. The small
fiagment of the Minutes of that meeting in the writer's pos¬
session, is entirely too small to give any definite information
about that meeting, but we are quite sure that it was all im¬
portant, because it was there that permanent arrangements
must have been made for the opening of the school. This fact
is self-evident when we remember that just four months after
the meeting the school was launched on the sea of time, to do
service for those who had put in full time working for its
establishment. Even- our young men now who took part then
in the promotion of this work, cannot, without the aid of the
records, call up and relate, with any degree of certainty, just
what happened, except that they were there and remember
that every heart was fired with the thought that the school
was soon to be established.
22
CHAPTER 4.
1881.
We have come at last to a year that seemed to be one of
great interest. The Association met with San Clair "-Church,
Wadley, Jefferson County, and there the Executive Board
could report that the long-talked of High School had opened
and finished its first year. See table of officers. Correspond¬
ents were received from the following Associations, viz.:
Hephzibah, Shiloh, Second Washington, Ebenezer and Mt.
Olive. The report of Rev. H. Ports, Treasurer of the Associa¬
tion, and Rev. R. Whitehead, Treasurer of the School, showed
that actual work had begun.
Out of a total of $108.80 in the School treasury, $31.35
had been spent on the school building (Thomas Grove
Church), Waynesboro, leaving 011 hand a balance of $77.45.
Prof. H. B. Garvin, the principal, had been paid $105 for
four months services, and an additional sum is reported by
the Treasurer of the Association as having been spent on the
building.
The birth of the school is of great interest, but the story
is told in the "History of Walker Baptist Institute," found
on another page. The principal's report to the Association
is of interest also. It runs as follows: Branches of study
taught—Orthography, 84; Reading, 60; Writing, 35; Arithme¬
tic, 34; Geography, 15; Grammar, 3.
Observe that, out of a total number of 84 students, only
3 were far enough advanced to take grammar.
A resolution by Brother G. H. Walker attracts our no¬
tice here: "Resolved, That all pastors be asked to instruct
their churches not to send up any more money to the Asso¬
ciation with holes in it, as there is a discount on it."
We close the record of this year with the thought—
'Twas indeed a small beginning,
Started in a stumbling way;
But their efforts are still blessing:
Those of us who live today.
23
1882,
The meeting of 1882 was held with Carswell Grove
Church, Burke-County, one of the "Mothers in Israel," lo¬
cated perhaps six miles west of Perkins, on the C. R. R., in
the heart of a great farming section. The only change we
note in officers is that Rev. R. Whitehead was made Treas¬
urer of the Association, instead of Rev. H. Ports. The Cor¬
responding Associations were: Hephzibah, Shiloh, Second
Washington, Pilgrim, Middle Georgia, Mt. Olive and Mt.
Vernon.
A communication from the Frank Cooper Association,
with 50c. inclosed, asking for the fellowship of the body was
refused, the relation between these two bodies being a little
strained for a number of years. The question was on the
orthodoxy of Cooper Association. With the fathers there was
absolutely no compromising of the principals upon which the
Baptist Church is founded.
THE EVESVILLE SUNDAY SCHOOL CONVENTION.
The^ Association itself was responsible for the very much
enlarged interest in Sunday School work, and yet the proposi¬
tion to organize a separate and distinct Sunday School body
to meet at a separate time and place from the Association, met
with the opposition of some of the strongest men. It was
finally agreed to allow the Sunday Schools to meet at Spring¬
field Church, Jefferson County, on the fifth Sunday in Novem¬
ber of that year, and organize a "Sunday School Association."
But it was understood that no Sunday School was bound to
join this new movement that desired to report to the Asso¬
ciation.
This liberty given the schools of the Association was
taken by many to mean that it was a mere experiment, which
was only allowed to satisfy a few of the younger set, whose
opinions the fathers could not allow to get in the ascendency.
This order was practically repealed later, but the idea would
not down.
24
DR. W. G. JOHNSON,
Secretary of Walksr Baptist Association and President of the Board.
OUR FIRST FINANCIAL DISTURBANCE.
Rev. H. Ports, the Treasurer, ha-d used $216.08 of the
cash m hand, but had placed in the treasury notes for the
same. The body became alarmed, and appointed Revs. Henry
Lane- and R. Whitehead to collect the same. Rev. Ports
proved to be very hone'st, for in a short time he paid the en¬
tire amount, and received the confidence of the brethren.
The Treasurer left the Association in 1881 with $77.45
and returned in 1882 with $70.55, which shows that nothing-
was paid to teachers, for the reason that the school was sus¬
pended in 1882, until more funds could be raised for educa¬
tional purposes. The board met at Waynesboro, November
23, and turned over to the Treasurer $335.78, this being the
full amount on hand.
1883.
We are now at McKennie Branch Church, near McBean
Station, on the Central of Georgia R. R. Two singular things
loom up as soon as we open this chapter. First, our own Dr.
C. T. Walker, now Moderator, who had been in previous
years such an active and influential member, was here now as
a visitor. He had changed his membership temporarily to
LaGrange, while serving a church in that city. His presence
caused a motion to be made making all visitors members of
that meeting. So, there never was a time when Dr. Walker
was not a member of the Walker Association.
Dr. E. K. Love—the then famous Missionary—preached
at the stand on the Sabbath. There stood about him a per¬
fect sea of faces, eager for the message, but the collection was
only 35 cents. These are mentioned so that the reader can
see how far we are now removed from those things which
characterized the meetings of those years. Indeed, after the
delivery of four able sermons that day, they counted on y
$16.80.
25
INTERNAL WAR.
At this meeting a contention arose over an effort to ad¬
mit to membership a congregation of people who had set up
under the name of Eden Baptist Church, in the County of
Jefferson, near Louisville, Ga. Rev. Andrew Wilkerson was
pastor. Rev. Jesse Davis objected to the admission of this
church on the ground that it was composed of excluded mem¬
bers from his (St. Paul) church. After much confusion Eden
was rejected. Rev. Davis himself offered a resolution call¬
ing on the Association to not only reject the church, but to
set their seal of disapproval on Rev. Wilkerson,, and instruct
all of his churches, viz.: Thankful and Needful, to drop him.
The Association referred the matter to the Executive Board,
with instructions to carry out the spirit of the resolution,
if they found sufficient reasons for such a course.
26
CHAPTER 5.
1884.
We have come at last to a year that was in many re¬
spects of greater interest than any previous one. The Asso¬
ciation met with Needful Church, near Millen, for the sec¬
ond time. The First Class School was an established fact, for
it was running at W'aynesboro from four to five months in
the year. The venerable moderator, for several years prior
to this meeting, had been pleading with the body to place
upon other shoulders the responsibility of leadership. He
contended that the change should be made, not only to re¬
lieve him, but also to encourage and develop younger men.
Yielding at last to his wishes, Rev. Thomas Jefferson Horns-
by, then Secretary, was elected to the 'Moderator's chair, and
Rev. C. T. Walker was elected Secretary.
The elders of that day were few, but there were young
men like A. L. D'Antignac, A. L. Byrd, S. Y. Pope, W. G.
Johnson, Joe Young, D. T. Thomas, C. T. Walker, T. J.
Hornsby, G. J. Campbell and others, on whose shoulders the
mantle of the fathers would soon fall.
Dr. C. T. Walker offered at that meeting two important
resolutions, one urging the churches to demand an educated
ministry, and another giving full power to the Executive
Board to handle all of the High School affairs, without in¬
structions from the Association-
The records tell us nothing o* the status of the school,
but we are confident it was doing well on a small scale. At
this meeting there was some trouble seating 'delegates, the
body having prescribed, in a previous meeting, the number
of delegates each church would be allowed to send.
Under this new administration the brethren had a kind
of hope, mixed with just enough fear, to stimulate them to
greater effort. Over there was one crowd doubting the abil¬
ity of the younger men to push the work to success, and, on
the other hand, Waynesboro was not proving to be the very
27
best place for the location of the school. It is easy, then, for
us to see that the first year of Rev. Hornsby's administration
was fraught with perplexing problems that a mature mind
would not pass over in haste. But we will see that no man
ever presided over the Association who enjoyed more of the
confidence, and love of all the people, than the young David
who took the throne when the great father of the Association
came down.
1885.
Pine Hill, Jefferson County, eight miles northwest of
Louisville, was the place of meeting in 1885; Rev. T. J.
Green, pastor. Rev. H. C. Lane preached the introductory
sermon from the text: "For we have seen His star in the east
and are come to worship Him." The same officers were re¬
elected, viz.: Rev. T. J. Hornsby, Moderator and C. T. Wal¬
ker, Clerk.
Letters of application were read from ■ Keys Spring,
'Curby Grove, Flat Rock and First Baptist Church, Millen,
but at the same time Reedy Creek Church withdrew from
the body. Here we have the story of the first effort of the
Association to check the reckless ordaining of men to the
ministry. Under a resolution by Rev. C. T. Walker, the As¬
sociation agreed to appoint four or five ministers in every
district, whom the several churches were requested to invite
as a presbytery to examine any brother applying for ordina¬
tion. Thus we see that right earlv the ministry was regarded
as not only a sacred calling, but one charged with such re¬
sponsibilities, that, for the protection of the churches as well
a:-, the reputation of the calling, none but men properly quali¬
fied should receive ordination. We might add, that in that
day supreme emphasis was laid upon character as one of the
great requirements or essentials to the desired success of a
God-called ministry. It is even so now.
Evesville Sunday School Convention (now Walker Bap¬
tist Sunday School Convention) presented through Rev. A.
28
L. D'Antignac her first contribution of $5 to the Association.
From that time until now there has been no lack of interest
and enthusiasm on the part of the convention in the work of
the Association.
A CHANGE OF LOCATION.
The trustees had sold the school house to Thankful
Church, Waynesboro, and purchased 9 acres of land at Mil-
len for $100. It appears that some objection to„Waynesboro
forced this action.
The board reported $800 in hand, and recommended that
the entire amount be used to erect a suitable building at
once on the new site. Later a special committee visited Mil-
len, and became dissatisfied with the location; the result was
another change to Waynesboro, There a splendid school
building was erected just outside of the town limits.
1886.
The Association met at McElmurray Spring Church, Rev.
N. Wilkerson, pastor. The arrangements for the entertain¬
ment of the body being unsatisfactory, many delegates re¬
turned home after the first day.
Union Grove, Washington County; Eden, Jefferson
County; Tabernacle, Augusta, Ga.,; Elim, Augusta, and Mill
Ground, Jefferson County,, were all admitted to membership.
Many things of importance came before the body at this ses¬
sion. First there was a long list of deceased ministers and
deacons, viz.: Revs. C. R. Cross, Cyrus Kelley, James Kel-
sey, Licentiates John Nelson, Deacons Richard Brinson,
Moses Hart and H. Taylor. Much time was given to memo¬
rial services, led by Revs. P. Walker and R. Whitehead.
The next thing of note was the report of the board,
recommending the sale of the Millen property, and the erec¬
tion of a suitable building at Waynesboro.
29
A FIGHT ON THE SUNDAY SCHOOL CONVENTION.
A fight on the Sunday School Convention was one of
the disturbing features of that meeting. The older brethren
contended that to maintain a separate and distinct Sunday
School organization,, within the bounds, was not only bur¬
densome to the churches, but would furnish an opportunity
for the children to learn that independence that would finally
result in two Associations. The contention called forth a
resolution requesting the convention to meet one day in ad¬
vance of the Association, and at the same place. This ended
the matter for that time.
The growth of the body, and the increased ability of its
constituents, began to attract attention everywhere. A de¬
sire to excel and indulge in friendly rivalry with other Asso¬
ciations, sprang up in the minds of the brethren, and when
the last prayer was offered they all parted to pour their whole
soul and body into the efforts of another year.
30
CHAPTER 6—1887.
THE FIRST GREAT TRIUMPH.
The Association met with Smith 'Grove Church, near
Noah Station, Jefferson County. At this meeting the first
sign of the total elimination of that custom which so often
give to religious gatherings the coloring of a political meet¬
ing, appeared when the rule to elect all officers by ballot was
suspended, and all officers were elected by acclamation. The
constitution was so amended as to allow the body to have an
assistant clerk, and Prof. S. Y. Pope was elected to fill the
position. He was Principal of the High School.
Noah's E'benezer Association sent corresponding dele¬
gates, but the body declined to receive them. In our time,
when Baptists have learned to be liberal, and less technical
\ir law and doctrine, it is difficult for the present generation
to understand1 that a whole Association could be thrown out
of harmony with all sister Associations, for no greater sin
tli an the retention of one or more churches whose orthodoxy
was questioned.
The first History of the Association, covering 20 years,
was prepared and read at this meeting by Rev. C. T. Wal¬
ker, but it was never printed. We are, therefore, robbed of
a record that to us now would be worth its weight in gold.
THE M'COY SPLIT.
The McCoy Church came up to the Association split in
two parts, both clinging to the same name, furnishing the
Association one of the greatest and most delicate problems
that pressed for solution. There was the question of right,
number, and the carrying along of two sisters whose tran¬
quility had been broken, and who were more in love with
the family name than with each other. They were sent back
home to pray; and a council was appointed by the Associa-'
tion to visit them and adjust the differences between them.
3i
There was great rejoicing in the camp when the Finance
Committee reported $819.94 sent up by the churches. This
was, indeed, a long stride forward, a height which had not
been reached in previous years, and an effective blow to tkose
who dou'bted the wisdom of beginning a negro enterprise
that required perpetual effort to maintain.
Franklin Covenant sent $60.00; Tabernacle, $35.00; Palm¬
ers Grove, $50.00; Ways Grove, $25.00; New Springfield,
$37.00; Bottsford, $31.45; Smith Grove, $25.00, and Needful,
$33.00. These churches were pastored by the leaders of the
Association. It required more than ordinary effort on the
part of pastor and people to raise these several amounts.
Spring Hill, Blythe, Ga., and Tabernacle, Augusta, gave the
names of the members who contributed liberally to the work.
In fact, several of the churches did the same, but only on a
smaller scale.
Many of those names are now sacred, for the reason that
the earth holds all that is mortal of those who never lived to
see the school in its glory. Some other facts that relate to
the High School will come up in another section of this work
devoted to Walker Baptist Institute.
32
REV. A. L. D:ANTIGNAC,
Assistant Secretary.
PERIOD 3—CHAPTER 7.
FROM 1888 TO 1898.
The meeting of 1888 was held with Springfield Church,
Burke County, beginning 011 Friday, September 21st, and
characterized for its unusually large attendance and the per¬
fect harmony and unity of purpose that prevailed, through¬
out the entire session.
The .introductory sermon was preached by Rev. J. S.
Kelsey from Isaiah, 8th chapter and 20th verse. After the
collection and the reading of letters from several churches,
the McCoy Church matter came up again, and the Executive
Board, to whom the question was referred at the last session,
made its report. The report of the Board being unsatisfac¬
tory to one faction of the church whose friends were persist¬
ent, the Association resolved itself into "a committee of the
whole," electing Revs. P. Walker, Chairman,, and T. H. Beas-
ley, Secretary. Both sides were given a fair and patient
hearing, but it simply resulted in further dissension and
strife"; for not only did this committee fail to reach a satis¬
factory conclusion, but also two other subsequent commit¬
tees, appointed at the same meeting, failed to agree, so the
two factions were again sent home, with instructions to ad¬
just their own differences.
Beech Branch came up to this meeting with two sets of
delegates, or more properly speaking, delegates from two dis¬
tinct factions, both claiming the same .name. The Associa¬
tion, after what appeared to be the fullest consideration,
recognized the congregation at the new place pastored by
Rev. S. Sapp, as Beech Branch Church, and the other faction
were instructed to organize.
Two State Missionaries were present, viz.: Revs. S. A.
McNeal and J. S. Kelsey. Both were given time to speak on
Saturday afternoon. A collection taken, amounting to $11.81,
was equally divided between them.
The Moderator, Rev. Thomas J. Hornsby, who was al¬
most an invalid on account of a recent spell of sickness, was
33
excused from preaching the missionary sermon on the Sab¬
bath. A collection was taken for him on Sunday night,
amounting to $10.50, and his expression of sincere gratitude
was pathetic, indeed. The Ministers' and Deacons' meeting,
held at McKinnie Branch Church, in July of that year, had
appointed Brother R. J. Johnson to prepare and read before
the Association a paper on "What is the General Cause of
the State of Lethergy in Our Churches?" After the delivery
of this address, the body was so well pleased, it was ordered
published with the Minutes. It follows:
"Brother Moderator and Brethren: If my ability to dis¬
charge the duty imposed upon me was equal to the honor I
feel for the compliment in being chosen to write upon this
subject,,! would entertain you with a profound composition.
This subject is not like one of those knotty points, which
civilized and savage alike have sought to know, but I very
much fear it has been left almost alone, unnoticed and dis¬
dained.
"First of all, I notice that the church of Christ is asleep.
'And know ye not that it is high time to awake out of sleep.'
We are lying down too still on our couch of dependency,
trusting our past record to keep down the foes of Christ.
"The sun, in her course, stops not a moment to contem¬
plate our destinies, neither do any of the diamond stars; so
that if we would do anything for the Lord, we must do it by
ourselves. The Baptist denomination, I fear, is most too
confident of its triumph over the world. We should never
hold our peace until the 'kingdoms of this world become the
kingdom of our God and His Christ.' And every African,
every Greek, and all to whom the Gospel is preached, will
join in the strain, 'One Lord, One Faith and One Baptism,'
and will cry aloud 'On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other
ground is sinking sand.' Brethren, arise and shine, for the
light is come and the glory of the Lord is rising upon us.
"It was when Samson had put his best confidence in De-
liah that he leaned his silvery locks over against her breast,
right next to her deceitful heart; then looking up into her
34
smiling face, he very confidentially told her the secret of his
heart. So are we trifling, and shaking hands, and listening
at the biggest sermons of false teachers who intend to en¬
tice us with delicate words, until they can get near enough
to steal our strength. I urge upon you, brethren, to awake
out of your desperate slumber and see how much, of this
land do we possess. Our Lord says: 'Take heed lest when ye
think you standeth, you fall.' One trouble is, there are too
many people in the church who have never been born again;
another is, some of our churches are putting men in office
for name, and not for qualification; and he whose merits de¬
serve a crown can scarcely find a grave. Let us notice, briefly,
that the ministers of the Gospel are asleep.
"Watchmen, in time of war men were put on picket, and,
if found asleep at their post of duty, they were shot down
for unfaithfulness, because thousands of lives was dependent
upon them for safety. The ministers have been put on guard,
and if the churches would keep, their guns always aimed, they
would hardly sleep before their destruction. I speak thus
plain because some men are thinking it a plaything to be a
minister of the Gospel.
"They are coming by the thousands, some for one thing
and some for another, and some in the pulpit who have never
been born again. Oh, servant of the Lord, even now the
black-winged angel takes his spear and stands at thy back
vand says: 'Shall I smite him?' This is not the sleep of Jacob,
in which ladders united Heaven and earth, angels treading
their ascending rounds bore messages of peace; but this is
the sleep where ladders are raised up from hell, and devils
climb up from the pit to molest thy spirit. Sleepy Christians,
let me shout in your ears that you are sleeping while souls
are being lost, sleeping while Christ is being dishonored,
sleeping while hell is being peopled, sleeping while the devil
is grinning in thy sleepy face, sleeping while demons dance
around thy sleepy carcass, and tell it in hell that the minis¬
ters of the Gospel are asleep. Now, brethren, you will find
il: more easy to criticise the work of your humble servant
35
than to demonstrate your own intellect; but, believe me, that
the very grandest specimen of human genius would have been
rendered you if it was in the brain of your humble servant."
We close this chapter with a list of the ordained minis¬
ters and their postoffice:
J. Walker, Mill en, Ga.
Whitehead, McBean, Ga.
T. Walker, Augusta, Ga.
Kelsey, Millen, Ga.
S. Kelsey, Millen, Ga.
- Burton, Louisville, Ga.
J. Small, Davisboro, Ga.
C. Kelsey, Millen, Ga.
E. Green, Wadley, Ga.
Trowbridge, Wadley, Ga.
G. Johnson, Augusta, Ga.
Martin, White Pond, S. C.
Roberts,
TT. Beasley, Scarboro, Ga.
S. Young, Keysville, Ga.
G. Green, Matthews, Ga.
P. Pitts, Louisville, Ga.
Walker, Augusta, Ga.
Wilkerson, Green's Cut.
Rev. H. C. Lane, Waynesboro, Ga. Rev. A.
Rev. C. R. Brown, Bartow, Ga. Rev. R*
Rev. W. H. Whitfield, Waynesboro. Rev. C.
Rev. D. F. Rice, Lawtonville, Ga. Rev. R.
Rev. A. L. D. D'A^+'gnac, Noah, Ga. Rev. J.
Rev. G. J. Campbell, Noah, Ga. Rev. E.
Rev. J. J. Davis, Louisville, Ga. Rev. L.
Rev. A. S. Wright, Alexander, Ga. Rev. L.
Rev. J. M. Sapp, Girth, Ga. Rev. P.
Rev. S. Sapp, Alexander, Ga. Rev. A.
Rev. M. W. Hart, Warrenton, Ga. Rev. W.
Rev. Aaron Mims, Augusta, Ga. Rev. T.
Rev. S. A. McNeal, Augusta, Ga. Rev. H.
Rev. A. L. Byrd, Harlem, Ga. Rev. T.
Rev. M. Kelley, Hancock Landing. Rev. J.
Rev. C. Proctor, McBean, Ga. Rev. T.
Rev. J. A. Walker, Cuthbert, Ga. Rev. S.
Rev. A. Wilkerson, Waynesboro, Ga. Rev. P.
Rev. T. J. Hornsby, Augusta, Ga. Rev. N.
Rev. Nathan Walker, Millen, Ga.
Of these, many are now asleep, having passed over the
river to wait the certain arrival of their former associates and
successors, who, at best, cannot tarry much longer. Only
twenty years, quite a brief period if we compare it with the
life of a nation, but it often happens that brilliant intellectual
stars rise and fade in just that time, and a busy nation soon
forget they lived.
1889—SPRINGFIELD, JEFFERSON COUNTY.
Among the many prominent churches of Walker Baptist
Association, none of them enjoy a larger share of the confi¬
dence and respect of the entire brotherhood than Springfield.
Its distance from ■ the railroads has been no barrier. By
tracing the History of the Association, it will be seen that
36
these hospitable people have done their full share in caring
for the body. The meeting of 1889, whi]e somewhat stormy
at times on account of the stubborn fight made by both fac¬
tions of McCoy Church, the rest of the time was gloriously
spent handling those larger questions that concerned a very
large majority of the churches that were enjoying perfect
peace.
In the absence of the regular appointee, Brother R. J.
Johnson, of Hephzibah, preached the introductory sermon,
from John 17:1, "Father, the hour is come!" This one act
of the body in allowing a young man who had just been
licensed by his church to preach, to come before them, is
the only case on record where a licensed preacher preached
that important sermon.
Immediately after the sermon the McCoy Church trou¬
ble came up, and after a heated discussion, the congregation
pastored by Rev. H. C. Lane was rejected. A subsequent
motion rejected also the congregation pastored by Rev. R.
Whitehead, and the affair referred to a special committee.
Rev. John Williams, of Brunswick, representing the State
Baptist Convention, was present, and made some encourag¬
ing remarks; also Brother G. F. Hudson, correspondent from
the Hephzibah Association.
Flat Rock Church, at Matthews, reported a grievous
dissension among the members, and, accordingly, a special
committee was appointed to look into the trouble.
The first day's session was closed on Friday night, with
a sermon by Rev. C. L. Allen, who took for his text: Isaiah
9, "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great
light"
These repeated complaints coming before the body al¬
most at every meeting in that constructive age, suggested
the appointment of a Committee on Church Grievance. The
Constitution of the Association still call for the appointment
of this committee annually, but for years its work has not
been difficult.
37
The very rapid increase of interest and intelligence, as
well as churches, had so enlarged the annual attendance and
made the burden of carrying the Association too heavy for
any one church, the number of representatives allowed each
church was cut down. The rule still stands, but through¬
out the bounds of the Association the increased numerical
strength, the ever growing intelligence, coupled with an
awakened sense of duty to God and man, has made impossi¬
ble the enforcement of this rule.
Mrs. Josephine Munns addressed the body on "Woman's
Mission," and was followed by Mrs. C. T. Walker on "Man's
Mission." Rev. C. H. Lyons was present and made a very
forceful speech. He was given $25.00 for his work, besides
a number of pledges from churches, amounting to quite a
handsome sum. This was a large donation for the times,
and was a decided compliment to the personal popularity of
the preacher himself,, as well as indisputable evidence of the
true missionary spirit of the brethren.
SERMONS.
There was no preaching on Saturday night, but the rea¬
son is not apparent. On Sunday, at 11 o'clock, Rev. W. G.
Johnson preached the missionary sermon from Phillippians,
2:9, and in the afternoon Rev. R. Taylor spoke from John,.
14:6. Rev. John Williams preached the closing sermon on
Sunday night from John, 3:9, "How can these things be?"
These efforts were in every way satisfactory.
THE FIRST INVITATION TO THE CITY.
Tabernacle Church, Augusta, invited the next meeting-
of the Association, but a majority of the churches preferred
Palmer Grove. This shows that there is a day of small
things for every church as well as individuals. Today Taber¬
nacle Church stands at the head of all the churches of the
Association, and no church in the bounds could secure a
meeting of the body if Tabernacle contended for the honor.
38
CHAPTER 8.
i8go—■ PALMERS GROVE, GREENS CUT.
The body is assembled with another one of the oldest
and most flourishing churches in her bounds. It occupied
an undisputed territory covering a large portion of the
County of Burke, with no church of its size within a radius
of five" miles in any direction, to rival it.
Rev. A. L. Byrd preached the introductory sermon from
Ps., 125:3, "The Lord has done great things for us, whereof
we are glad." It was a logical exposition of the Christian
warfare.
After the reading of several letters, the McCoy Church
trouble came up again. The Association, after hearing both
sides, again rejected both factions.
Noah Ebenezer Association was received as a corre¬
sponding body after several years effort, and her representa¬
tive, Rev. N. B. Buxton, was given the hand of welcome. The
patient effort of this Association to receive the recognition
of the Walker, was not so much on account of the great
strength of the latter, but a right conception of the religious
ethics that should govern Christian bodies at all times who
hold the same religious belief. 'Much of this difference is
now'a thing of the past, as not only Associations, but some
of our churches, belonging to different Associations in the
state, shelter individuals whose conduct deserve the rebuke
of all decent people.
On account of the great distance many of the delegates
were forced to travel every afternoon, no meeting was held
on Saturday night. The National Baptist Convention was
then in session at Louisville, Ky.„ and the body agreed to
send the Moderator, Rev. T. J. Hornsby, and Rev. W. G.
Johnson to represent her. The Moderator's entire expense
was paid. Rev. Johnson received $10.00 on his expense from
the Association, but this amount was greatly supplemented
by a host of personal friends, who were anxious to encour¬
age the aspirations of a young man who was already great.
39
The widow of Rev. Joseph Walker, for whom the As¬
sociation was named, was given $5.00. The memory of these
old relics of a darker day always touched a sympathetic
chord in the hearts of the brethren of Walker" Association,
sacred not simply because they are our ancestors, but sacred
because we received from them a rich legacy of morals, and
an unfaltering faith in the possibilities of any people who
appreciate opportunities, and rely unceasingly upon "The In-
vincable Arm."
The contest for the next meeting of the Association was
between three of the leading churches, viz.: Brinson Hill,
Carswell Grove and Bottsford. It required some time to
settle this great problem, each church having among its ad¬
vocates some of the most influential members of the body.
Ir was finally settled in favor of Carswell Grove.
SERMONS.
At 11 o'clock a. m., Rev. J. J. Davis preached the mis¬
sionary sermon from Prov., 3:9, "Honor the Lord with thy
substance and with the first fruits of all they increase." In
the afternoon Rev. D. McHortorn, of Augusta, preached from
2 Cor., 9 -.24, "So run that ye might obtain." Rev. T. W.
Walker followed him with some brief remarks. At night
Rev. A. Wilkerson preached from the text, "For other foun¬
dation can no man lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus
'Christ."
At the stand, in the morning, Rev. H. M. Williams spoke
from the text, "Ye are bought-with a price."
Near the close of this session the Cooper Association
made a final fruitless attempt to receive the recognition of
the Walker Association, but nothing was done further than
to appoint a special committee to inquire into the fitness of
the Cooper Association to receive the hand of fellowship.
We will close this year's record with the report on
"Education," made by Rev. W. G. Johnson. It follows:
"We, your committee, to whom was referred the matter
ot education in our bounds, beg leave to report: That the
40
FIRST 3AFTIST CHURCH, MILLEN,
Rev. R. J. Johnson, Pastor.
careful survey of the field demonstrates the fact that, side by
side with other Associations,, ours is keeping pace with
others in the intellectual procession. It needs not the dem¬
onstration of logic, or the persuasion of rhetoric to convince
our people that education is an important auxiliary in the
struggles' of life.
"The continual springing up of cultured and refined
young men and women convinces the sluggard that he is
sleeping while a treasure of God is buried at his door. Our
people, though, are too -careless as to where they educate
their children. We have our own schools and the Atlanta
Baptist Seminary, also Spelman Seminary, one of the great¬
est schools in this country for girls. There is no school
among the schools, from the Potomac on the north, to the
Gulf of Mexico on the south, there is none greater than Spel¬
man. We urge our people to send their girls to Spelman, as
it costs but little more than it does to send them to the
schools of other denominations. If the children are edu¬
cated in these schools, they will make very poor Baptists, if
Baptists at all. We further urge our people to secure, if
possible, Baptist teachers in their schools. Better not to be
educated at all than to be educated wrong."
1891—CARSWELL GROVE, NEAR PERKINS.
This church at that time was by far the strongest and
influential of all the churches of Walker Association in that
part of her bound's. At the time of this meeting Rev. N.
Walker was the much beloved pastor. When the hour ar¬
rived for the opening of the meeting the regular appointee
was absent; so, upon request of the Moderator, Rev. E. Bur¬
ton preached the introductory sermon from Num. 23:19,
"God is not a man that Pie should lie, neither the son of man
that He should repent."
We find nothing out of the ordinary in the records of
the first day's meeting except the strange fact that not a
sermon was preached from Friday morning until Sunday
morning. A very lengthy business meeting was held Fri-
41
day night, and on Saturday night the entire time was given
to Dr. C. T. Walker to lecture on his trip to the Holy Land.
During the first day's meeting a collection was taken to
assist Rev. Harry M. Williams, who was in failing health,
to get to his father in Washington, Wilkes County. It was
a touching scene as the brethren gave out of their earnings
to assist this young man whose untimely affliction threat¬
ened an early and certain death.
Sister Josephine Munns and Rev. A. B. Murden, both
representing the interest of the State Baptist Convention of
Georgia, was present, and after delighting the body with two
earnest addresses, were given good collections for their work.
Sunday morning, after a lengthy mass meeting, in which
quite a number of prominent speakers took part, the body
took a recess. At II o'clock, in the house, the annual mis¬
sionary sermon was preached by Rev. Thomas R. Glover, of
Augusta, from Dan 2:44, "In the days of these kings shall
the God of Heaven set up a kingdom."
At the stand, Rev. C. T. Walker, D. D., preached at the
same hour from Ps., 40:5-6, "Lo, I come in the volume of
thy book it is written of me, I delight to do Thy will, O
God."
SUNDAY AFTERNOON.
The memorial services was held in honor of Rev. J. J.
Davis and Frank Collier. Those who spoke were Revs. I.
A. McNeal, A. S. Wright and W. G. Johnson. As we trace
the pages of the Minutes of these years and take a lingering
look at many of the names that was once on every tongue,
voices that once spoke with power to teeming multitudes,,
and minds that helped to shape the policy of Walker Asso¬
ciation, and remember that they are now hushed in death:
the thought of our certain departure is pressed home to our
hearts with all of the solemnity that accompanies the word
DEATH.
At night Rev. T. W. Walker preached a short sermon,
after which the Lord's Supper was served. At the stand, in
A2
the afternoon, Rev. T.. G. Green spoke to a large crowd from
the text, "Watch, therefore, for you know not the hour when
your Lord cometh."
CHANGE OF LOCATION FOR WALKER BAPTIST
INSTITUTE.
On Monday morning Rev. C. T. Walker offered a reso¬
lution to move the school from Waynesboro to Augusta.
This was by no means a popular undertaking, but Dr. Wal¬
ker's mind was made up, and as is characteristic of him, he
never falters betause his ideas of the fitness of things are not
always accepted by his associates. He made his fight and
won. The additional strength, and increased opportunities
enjoyed by the. school in Augusta, is an evidence of how God
may at times use one man for glorious purposes, even when
the idea to others is unpopular and even repulsive.
Carswell 'Grove and Rocky Ford Churches had some dis¬
pute over members, but the whole trouble was easily ad¬
justed.
At this meeting Rev. A. S. Wright offered a resolution
requesting all ministers to send not less than $1.25 to the
next meeting of the Association; to be collected on Saturday.
Thus we have the beginning of Saturday rallies in Walker
Association, which, in later years, have been regarded as the
supreme effort of all.
After appointing messengers to the National Baptist
Convention, to be held in the City of Savannah the next year,
the last hymn was sung, and the body took recess for an¬
other year.
1892—SAN CLAIR CHURCH, WADLEY.
The next meeting of the Association was held at San
Clair Church, Wadley, Ga., on Friday before the fourth
Lord's day in September. Rev. W. H. Golden preached the
introductory sermon from the text, "And he sat down at the
feet of Jesus clothed in his right mind." The rest of the
morning session was taken up wit^h the reading of letters.
43
MUCH WORK FOR COMMITTEE ON GRIEVANCE.
The report of the Committee on Church Grievances is
as follows: "We, your Committee on Church Grievances,
beg to report: We have considered the charge against Rev.
E. Burton and Perkins Grove Bapitst 'Church, that re-bap¬
tized Sister Jane Washington, who had been baptized by
Rev. C. R. Gross, who was a regular ordained minister of the
Gospel. We find that the charge is true. We further find
that both Salter Grove and Perkins Grove Churches claim
this sister. And it is not clear to us which of these churches
she joined, so we recommend that we call a council of min¬
isters in their community to decide this matter. Your com¬
mittee find that there has been irregularity in the exclusion
of members at the Spring Branch Church, Augusta}- that
the pastor, Rev. B. Drisley, excludes them without the vote
of the church. We recommend that a committee be sent to
investigate the charge."
Thus we see in the very outset of this year's record
other churches and their pastors decided to fill the vacuum
made by the absence of that chronic McCoy trouble that had
filled so many dark pages of our history.
The welcome address was read by 'Miss L. Hines, to
which Rev. S. W. H. Murray responded in chosen words.
The Ministers' and Deacons' rally, appointed by the last
meeting of the Association, was held on Friday afternoon,
amounting to $31.25.
The day's exercises was closed on Friday night with a
powerful sermon by Rev. L. M. Luke, of Louisville, Ky.,
lepresentative of the Foreign Mission Board of the National
Baptist Convention.
On Saturday morning, by request of his church, the As¬
sociation appointed a presbytery to examine Brother A. P.
Kelsey. We know not what the findings of this committee
was, as the records do not show it. The Constitution of the
body was ordered revised, but just what changes, if any,
were made, cannot be determined except by comparing the
Minutes of 1891 and 1892.
44
The Association, by motion of Dr. C. T. Walker, do¬
nated enough to the Foreign Mission Convention to make
the Moderator a life member of that body.
Rev. A. S. Wright, one of the brightest lights of the As¬
sociation, came before the body in the capacity of a State
Missionary, and received a contribution of $30.00 for his
work.
SATURDAY AFTERNOON.
A vast congregation from all the surrounding territory
was so anxious for preaching that Rev. R. Lane was ap¬
pointed to preach. There is no further record of the preach¬
ing services of that hour, except that the meeting was held
at the stand, while the delegates remained in the house and
conducted the business of the body.
At night a business session was held, when correspond¬
ents to sister Associations were appointed, and other busi¬
ness of the body transacted.
SUNDAY SERMONS.
At 11 o'clock Rev. L. M. Luke preached again from 1st
Peter, 4:16, "Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him
glorify God on this behalf." There is no record of any other
man having the honor of preaching twice at the same meet¬
ing of th$ Association.
The same hour, at the stand, Rev. N. Wilkerson
preached the annual missionary sermon from Prov., 3 :g,
"Honor the Lord with thy substance and with the first fruits
of all thy increase."
AFTERNOON.
The Association held memorial services in honor of
Revs. G. W. Lane and Robert Powell. Rev. T. J. Hornsby
made the opening talk from Phillippians, 1:2i, "To die is
gain," and at the stand Rev. I. A. McNeal preached to a
large congregation from 1st Kings, 10:7, "Behold the half
was not told me."
45
At night Rev. W. 'G. Johnson preached a very great
.sermon, 2 Cor., 2:2, "I am determined not to know anything
among you, saving Jesus and Him crucified." It will be
remembered by many that almost the entire congregation
was standing at the close of this sermon.
After the sermon the Lord's Supper was served to the •
entire congregation of baptized believers.
On Monday morning" it was found that a large number
of the delegates, who had been in attendance upon the meet¬
ing, had returned to their homes. Brother W. A. McCloud
attempted to remedy this evil in the future 'by offering a
resolution that purposed to report to the various churches
any delegate of their number Avho left the body before ad¬
journment. This resolution was laid on the table.
The widow of Rev. J. J. Davis was donated $5.00 as a
mark of respect for the labors of her deceased husband, who
had spent almost his entire life working in the bounds of
the Walker Association.
This ended what had been in many respects a very great
meeting.
46
CHAPTER 9.
1893—BOTTSFORD CHURCH, BURKE COUNTY.
At Bottsford 'Church the meeting was not very full of
enthusiasm. Many circumstances comlbined to rob the
brethren of the pleasures that such meetings usually give.
The Moderator, Rev. T. J. Hornsby, was compelled to re¬
main at his stopping place the better part of three days.
Rev. H. C. Lane presided over the body with great ability
during the absence of the Moderator. "
The arrangement for the entertainment of the delegates
was very imperfect.
Rev. A. L. D'Antignac, of Noah, preached the introduc¬
tory sermon from Act 15 41, "And he went through Syria and
Cilicia,, confiming the churches.Everybody present seemed
to have enjoyed this sermon.
At this time there was a great war going on between
the Baptists of the state identified with the Missionary Bap¬
tist Convention of Georgia. Dr. E. K. Love, who repre¬
sented the Old Convention as president, was a visitor to the
meeting. His presence gave rise to the belief that he would,
directly or indirectly, ask the body to take a position with
the Old Missionary Convention. There were, of course,
many friends to both sides in the Association, and Dr. C. T.
Walker, to set at rest the whole question at an early stage
of the meeting, offered the following resolution early after
the opening of the Friday afternoon session :
"Whereas, There is much disaffection in the Baptist
ranks of the state; and,, whereas, we have too much at stake
to divide our forces at this time;
"Resolved, That this Association will not appoint any
delegates at this session, but will pray God's guidance, and
for peace and unity in the ranks of the Baptists of Georgia."
But it appears that this resolution did not set at rest a
question that was the topic of the day throughout the entire
47
state. On Saturday night Rev. W. G. Johnson offered an¬
other resolution, as follows:
"Whereas, In unity there is strength; and, whereas, there
is an effort on foot to heal the breach that separates the
brethren of the state; and,
"Whereas, A meeting has been called to meet in At¬
lanta in October, to be composed of the leading brethren
from both sides, with a view to settling the differences and
securing peace in our state; and,
"Whereas, The leading men of our denomination favor
coming to peace;
"Resolved, That we entertain good will for all and mal¬
ice for none.
"Resolved further, That we approve the efforts of our
leading brethren to bring peace in the state."
The reader, after a careful study of the language of these
apparently harmonious resolutions, will scarcely see a differ¬
ence. But one was striving to remove the possibility of the
influence of Association being used in any way to strengthen
either of the contending parties.
On the other hand, the last resolution, while concurring
in the sentiments of the first as far as they prayed for peace,
wanted the Association to go on record as being willing to
assist in a peaceable movement.
On Friday night Dr. Love preached from the text, "En¬
deavoring to„ keep the unity in the bonds of peace." The
text taken by the preacher was at once construed to mean
that he would seize the opportunity to defend his position
with reference to the division among the Baptists of the
state. He did not disappoint his hearers, but the Associa¬
tion being largely in favor of the New Convention, and abid¬
ing the decision of the body already rendered, gave a very
tardy response to the sentiments expressed in the sermon.
The entire day Saturday was spent in business' session
during which time speeches were made by Revs. E. K. Love
C. H. Lyons, S. X. Floyd, G. A. Goodwin, Sisters Josephine
Munns and Georgia Branham.
48
REV. J. W. WHITEHEAD,
Fastor of Antiooh Baptist Church and Vice-Chairman of the Sub-Board.
SUNDAY SERMONS.
In the house, at n o'clock-, Rev. R. J. Johnson, of Au¬
gusta, preached the annual missionary sermon from Mat¬
thew, 10:7, "As ye go preach, saying the Kingdom of Heaven
is at hand." The same hour, at the stand, Dr. C. T. Walker
delivered a very able discourse from Romans, 5 :i5, "For if
through the offence of one many are dead, much more the
grace of God and the gift by grace, which is by one man,
Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many."
At the afternoon services, in memory of Rev. A. I. Irvin,
Rev. H. C. Lane preached from Matthew, 25:2, "His Lord
said unto him, 'Well done, thou good and faithful servant.'"
He was followed by Revs. J. P. Broughton and T. W. Wal¬
ker. At the same hour Rev. P. E. Green preached to a large
crowd at the stand from Gallations, 6:8, "For he that soweth
to the flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption."
The body took recess on Sunday night.
On Monday a small collection was taken for Revs. Na¬
than and Peter Walker. After appointing Revs. C. T. Wal¬
ker and W. G. Johnson traveling agents for Walker Baptist
Institute, the Association sang, "Blest Be the Tie That
Binds," and Rev. R. J. Johnson offered the closing prayer.
1894.
Jefferson County has always carried her share of the re¬
sponsibilities of the Association, and this fact was never bet¬
ter demonstrated than it was when the Association met with
the Harts Grove Church, Spread, iGa. Rev. T. H. Beasley
preached the introductory sermon from Rom. 5 :6, "For when
we were yet without strength in due time Christ died for the
ungodly." Rev. W. G. Johnson was here elected Temporary
Clerk. Rev. R, J. Johnson, the pastor of this church, had
made ample preparation for the entertainment of the host
of delegates who had come from far and near to attend the
meeting.
A letter from Needful from some aggrieved members was
read to the body, and referred to the Committee on Church
49
Grievance. The committee, after some deliberation, decided
that the letter did not come from the church, and the ag¬
grieved members were instructed to return home and ask
their church for a council, and if the church refused to grant
them a council, permission was given them to call one them¬
selves. As the Association heard nothing more irom these
aggrieved members, we are sure that the whole trouble was
properly adjusted.
On Saturday morning, Mesdames Josephine Munns and
Amelia W. Sullivan, of Augusta, and Miss B. B. Lyons, one
of the first graduates of .Walker Baptist Institute, were pres¬
ent, and were introduced to the body. Sister Munns was a
prominent mem'ber of Tabernacle Church, and was espec¬
ially. interested in state-wide missions. We should have
stated earlier that Rev. W. G. Johnson was made Perma¬
nent Clerk when the Association was organized on Friday
and Rev. A. L. D'Antignac was made Assistant Clerk.
!It appears that the rally sermon, preached on Satur¬
day, was not a sermon, but a lecture, by Dr. C. T. Walker,
on "The Past and Present of Walker Baptist Institute."
After the lecture a collection was taken, amounting to $26.05.
Those of us who are accustomed to seeing all the way from
$900 to $1,100 laid on the-table every year after our rally
sermons of these times, are tempted to believe that the in¬
terest in the work at this time was not what it should have
been. But before we pass judgment, let us remember that
some exceedingly hard years have much to do with church
contributions, as well as any other enterprise that must be
fostered by voluntary offerings. Besides the address by Dr.
Walker on- Saturday in the interest of Walker Baptist In'
stitute, addresses were also delivered by Drs. S. A. McNeal
and W. J. White in the interest of the State Baptist Con¬
vention of Georgia.
On the SaJbbath, from 9 till 10:30, an interesting Sun¬
day School mass meeting was held under the direction of
Rev. W. A. McCloud. Prof. J. A. Walker taught the les¬
son by request,, but soon gave way to a discussion of the
SO
question: "Is it right for a person to teach Sunday School
who is not a member of the church?" We know not what
answer was given to what appeared to be a vexing ques¬
tion.
QUERIES.
Thus far we have spoken but briefly on "Queries."
And the custom so long prevalent among the churches and
Sunday Schools to send questions to the various annual
meetings of the Association," viz.: General Meeting, Minis¬
ters' and Deacons' Meeting, and Association, to be an¬
swered. Almost any question arising among the churches
was never concluded, as far as interested parties were con¬
cerned, until one of these meetings had passed upon it. The
discussion of these questions was far more than a waste of
time, for, in many cases, they threw light on questions whose
settlement meant the peace of the church, the good of whole
communities, and the consequent glory of God.
On Sunday morning the vast throng that was present
to hear the missionary sermon by Dr. C. T. Walker were far
too many to press into half a dozen houses of the size of
Harts Grove, so Dr. Walker kindly consented to preach in
open air, with a wagon for his pulpit. He took for a text
Second Sam, 5:24, "And let it be when thou hearest the
sound of the going in the mulberry trees, then rise and be¬
stir thyself."
On Sunday afternoon, Rev. J. B. Neal preached an able
sermon from Matthew, 22:42, "What think ye of Christ?"
After the sermon the Sunday School Workers of the Wal¬
ker Baptist Sunday School Convention assembled and list¬
ened to some very fine papers by Miss Anna Tate, of Wal¬
ker Baptist Institute, and others.
Sunday night, Rev. W. G. Johnson preached to a
crowded house, from Sam, 20:18; "Thou shalt be missed be¬
cause thy seat will be empty." This was the memorial oc¬
casion, and as the preacher called up the memory of Revs.
A. S. Wright, H. H. Williams and Prof. S. Y. Pope,- the
51
hearts of all the brethren was made to feel most keenly the
loss of the able men.
On Monday morning the body assembled to finish busi¬
ness. The devotions were conducted by Rev. N. C. Smith,
and several brethren offered prayer.
The sexton of the church,. Brother H. H. Stapleton, re¬
fused t:o allow the Association to pay him f(?r services rend¬
ered during the meeting. This was certainly an example set,
but it seems to have had no effect on those who have served
at the various churches since that time, for they have all
demanded pay.
The Moderator appointed the following brethren to ex¬
amine candidates in the various districts who may apply for
ordination:
First District—Revs. W. H. Whitfield, W. H. Bessent
and S. D. Rosier.
Second District—Revs. W. G. Johnson, H. C. Lane and
N. Wilkerson.
Third District—Revs. R. J. Johnson, J. T. Young, T. W.
Walker and N. C. Smith.
Fourth District—Revs. J. W. Whitehead, I. A. McNeal,
C. T. Walker and A. L. D'Antignac.
A resolution was passed thanking the graduates of the
Walker Baptist Institute for their able papers read before
the body during the meeting.
The association was very proud of the first class of
graduates from Walker Baptist Institute, who were present
at this meeting, and a special committee was appointed to
prepare resolutions expressing the pleasure of the body.
"Blest Be the Tie That Binds" was sung by the body,
and the Association adjourned, to meet with the Brinson Hill
Baptist Church,, Wadley, Ga., the following year.
1895.
We are now at Brinson Hill, one mile south of Wadley,
the church from which Deacon Josh Brinson used to come
every year bringing the greetings of his people. Rev. T. H.
52
Beasley had made ample preparation for the entertainment
of a large number of the Lord's host. The introductory
sermon was preached by Rev. R. J. Johnson, from Hosea,
6:3, "Then shall we know if we follow on to know the
Lord." The first day (Friday) was given over 'to the read¬
ing of letters and the election of officers, and closed at night
with a great sermon by Rev. L. M. Luke, Corresponding
Secretary of the Foreign Mission Board.
The First Baptist Church, Stillmore, had had some
trouble with a brother, who, in turn, wanted the pastor
ousted, on the ground that he had not been properly elected,
but the Association, through its committee, found that the
pastor, Rev. E. C. Airline, had been properly elected by the
church. Maccedonia, Jefferson County, was represented by
two sets of delegates, but it was found that one of them
was self-appointed, and so the disgruntled members of both
of these churches went home the wiser by having made a
fruitless attempt to have the Association justify them, even
though they were not wronged, but were suffering under an
imaginary persecution.
A large part of Saturday afternoon was given over to
Dr. C. T. Walker to use in making an appeal on behalf of
Walker Baptist Institute. After a most touching appeal that
reached the hearts of the brethren, a collection was taken
that was certainly encouraging to those who were familiar
with the needs of the school. Perhaps it might be interest¬
ing later, if not now, to those who will come after to know,
that the total amount taken at that rally was $50.35. By
following these collections the reader can better trace the
increasing interest as well as the increasing numerical
strength of the Association as the years made her older and
greatly increased her responsibility.
The mass meeting hour Sunday morning was given
over to the discussion of Walker Baptist Institute, Prof. 'G.
A. Goodwin, the principal of the school, as leading speaker.
On Sunday morning the entire throng of more than
4,000 people stood in the grove to listen to the missionary
53
sermon by Rev. C. T. Walker, D. D_ So much has already
been .said about this great preacher, and so much more will
have to be sa'id, until we cannot pause here to comment on
the great sermon of this occasion, which brought tears to
the eyes of hundreds who listened to his earnest and mas¬
terly appeal for Home and Foreign Missions. His subject
was, "The Indwelling Christ." Text: Ephsians, 3:17-19.
Memorial in honor of Revs. A. L. Byrd and J. A. Wal¬
ker were held on Sunday night, Rev. H. C. Lane being the
leading speaker of the occasion. A blank page was ordered
left in the Minutes in honor of Rev. Joseph Walker, who
was Assistant Principal of the Walker Baptist Institute.
Prof. R. R. Wright, of the State College, was present, and
made some very important and interesting remarks on many
questions of vital importance to the race.
54
In Memory of
REV. PROF. JOSEPH WALKER,
Who Departed This Life May 27, 1895..
He Was a Good Man and God Was With Him.
He Was Meek, Humble and Submissive.
He Owed No Man 111 Will.
He Made a Noble Sacrifice for the Walker Association and
the Cause of Christ.
He Died in the Faith.
55
On Monday morning a collection was taken for Frank¬
lin Covenant Church to assist them in rebuilding, as their
house of worship had been destroyed by fire. The Eves-
ville Sunday School Convention, through the Revs. W. A.
McCloud, A. L. D'Antignac and S. P. Campbell, sent $22.20
to aid in running the school. The Association then listened
to the first report of its Committee on Statistics, as follows:
"We find there has been baptized, 566. Received by letter,
66. Restored, 276. Excluded, 380. Dismissed by letter, 39.
Died, 118. Total membership, 9,755."
We regret that we cannot follow this report further and
quote Prof. J. T. Smith's report on Education, or the report
of Brother James M. Morse on Temperance. We are forced
to keep in mind, as we write, that our purpose in the be¬
ginning, to limit the space, must not for any reason be
changed.
REV. W. A. McCLOUD, Trustee,
President of Walker Sunday School Convention and Pastor of Four of
Our Churches.
CHAPTER 10.
1896—TABERNACLE CHURCH, AUGUSTA.
For the first time in the history of the Association, the
annual meeting was held in a large city. For nearly thirty
years delegates attending these annual meetings had feasted
upon the comforts furnished by the plain but honest peo¬
ple who were wedded to the soil. To come to the city, ;a
large city, right under the shadow of their own great school,
was to the brethren a new but altogether desirable experi¬
ence. On Friday morning, September 25th, every train that
passed over the territory occupied by Walker Association
was crowded with messengers coming up to Zion to report
the progress of another year.
Under the direction of Dr. C. T. Walker, pastor of Tab¬
ernacle Church, most satisfactory arrangements for the en¬
tertainment of the Lord's host had already been completed.
When the first hymn announced the opening of the
meeting, brethren were still passing up and down the aisles
of the building, exchanging greetings and discussing the
significance of such a gathering in a city where Baptists
kept the gate.
The introductory sermon of the occasion was preached
by Rev. W. A. McCloud from Mark, 4:14, "The sower sow-
eth the word." The sermon was short, but full of instruc¬
tion. Miss Georgia Palmer, a member of the faculty of Wal¬
ker Baptist Institute, delivered the address of welcome on
behalf of the church, and by request of the Moderator, Rev.
R. J- Johnson responded in a very happy style.
■After reading about half of the letters present, the same
officers were re-elected for another year. The first day's ex-
ervises were closed with a sermon by Rev. A. W. Wilson,
from 1 Cor., 1:22, "But w epreach Christ crucified ,unto. the
Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness."
57
SATURDAY MORNING.
The "rally sermon" was preached on Saturday morn¬
ing by Dr. E. K. Love, of Savannah, from John, I7:3> "And
this is life eternal that they may know thee, the only true
God and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." The collec¬
tion followed, amounting to $131.34.
At 4 o'clock Saturday afternoon,, the Association ad¬
journed to visit the school building in a body. Suitable ex¬
ercises were held. Dr. Love and Prof. G. A. Goodwin spoke,
and the brethren were made to realize the magnitude of the>
work they were doing.
Dr. C. S. Wilkins preached an able sermon on Saturday
night from Gen., 49:10, "The sceptre shall not depart from
Juda, nor a lawgiver from between his feet until Shiloh come,
and unto him shall the gathering of the people be."
SUNDAY.
The ministers attending the Association filled the vari¬
ous pulpits of the city on the Sabbath, and the reports on
Monday showed that they had been well received. At Tab¬
ernacle /Church, Rev. A. L. D'Antignac preached the mis¬
sionary sermon from Nehemiah, 6:3, "I am doing a great
work so that I cannot come down." It was the effort of his
life.
At 3 o'clock p. m., Rev. W. .G. Johnson preached from
24:39, "Behold my hands and my feet; handle me
and see, for a spirit hath not hands and feet as ye see me
have." To hear this sermon men and women of every walk
in life crowded the building until there was no longer stand¬
ing room available.
At night, Rev. H. C. Lane made the opening talk of the
memorial exercises in honor of the dead from Second Tim.,
4:7, "I have fought a good fight." He was followed by Revs.
C. J. Noble and R. J. Johnson.
On Monday morning a lengthy business session was
held. The Evesville Sunday School Convention (now Wal¬
ker Baptist Sunday School Convention) turned over $118.00
58
to the Association to assist in its educational work. The
Finance Committee came in singing, "The Good Old Ship of
Zion," coming heavy loaded, and laid on the table $1,370.28,
representing the liberality of a thoroughly awakened people.
The attention of the body was called to the death of
Rev. W. L. Kilpatrick (white), of Hephzibah Association,
by Rev. C. T. Walker, D. D., who also offered suitable reso¬
lutions touching his departure. All business was immedi¬
ately suspended, and a special prayer was offered for the
family of the deceased.
This departure from the regular custom of the Asso¬
ciation in taking notice of the death of white brethren and
friends was none too great a tribute to the memory of a man
who, after years of the most faithful labor for his race and
ours, had fallen peacefully to sleep to await the coming of his
brethren who had seen like afflictions.
Sang "Blest Be the Tie That Binds" and the brethren
parted for another year, having ended a glorious and un¬
blemished epoch in the history of our Association.
1897—THANKFUL CHURCH, WAYNESBORO.
It was quite natural that an Association which had won
the admiration of foes, should feel proud of her strength, and
should, now that its school of learning had gained favor with
the rich as well as God's poor, spend the first half day in ex¬
changing congratulations. But at the very outset the in¬
creasing needs of Walker Baptist Institute was made known,
and the brethren made to understand that there was abso¬
lutely no discharge in this war.
The introductory sermon was preached by Rev. C. L.
Lawrence, of Wadley, from Heb., 4:11, "Let us labor, there¬
fore, to enter into that rest." The remainder of the day was
given to organization and the reading of letters. At night
Dr. C. S. Wilkins preached a very able sermon from I John,
3:14, "For we know that we have passed from death into life,
because we love the brethren."
59
SATURDAY MORNING.
Rev. W. S. Rogers, of the White Baptist Church, was
present, and made some very timely remarks. After fixing
time and place for the various District General Meetings, Dr.
C. T. Walker delivered the rally sermon, taking for his text:
Nehemiah, 3:10, This sermon was simply another one of
those sermons replete with wholesome advice to a struggling
race. Collected $81.50. At night Rev. T. H. Beasley; of
Wadley, preached from Rom., 8:18, "For I reckon that the
suffering of this present time is not worthy to be compared
with the joy that shall be revealed in us."
SUNDAY MORNING.
A very interesting mass meeting was held at 9 o'clock.
The papers read and addresses delivered were listened to
with great patience. At 11 a. m., Rev. S. W. H. Murray, of
Augusta, delivered the missionary sermon, using as a text:
Ps., 40:7, "Then said I, lo, I come, in the volume of the
book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O God."
By preaching this sermon Rev. Murray became to the
brethren of the Association as a splendid preacher, as well
as one of the most faithful members of the body.
At 3 o'clock, Rev. T. W. Walker preached from Rev.,
8:10, "And there fell a great star from Heaven."
On Sunday night, Rev. T. J. Hornsby preached the me¬
morial sermon from Second Tim., 4:7, "I have kept the faith."
Other brethren of the Association preached at different
churches during the day.
MONDAY MORNING.
The early trains took many away, but a large number
remained to close up the business left over from Saturday's
session. The Evesville Sunday School Convention reported
$71.85, which was received with thanks.
Perhaps the largest number of churches ever admitted
at any one time in the history of the Association came in at
this meeting. There were thirteen in all, and most of them
60
large and prominent churches that came from other asso¬
ciations.
A resolution by Rev. R. J. Johnson requesting all
churches to report to the Association the number of mem¬
bers in them who could read, was adopted, but it appears
that it was never done.
After arranging for a grand school rally, to be held in
February, 1898, the old hymn, "Blest Be the Tie That
Binds," that carries with it so many sacred memories, was
sung, and the meeting adjourned, with benediction by Rev.
Peter Walker.
PERIOD 4—FROM 1898 TO 1908.
CHAPTER 11—1898—EDEN CHURCH, LOUISVILLE.
The Walker Baptist Association convened with Eden
Baptist Church, near Louisville, Rev. John T. Smith, pas¬
tor. The opening page of the Minutes says: At 11 a. m.,
the Moderator, Rev. T. J. Hornsby, sang "Soldier of Christ,
Arise," and then called Rev. E. B. Lattimer to lead in prayer.
Rev. M. J. Maddox, of Augusta, read the 9th Psalm, and
was then introduced to preach the introductory sermon, in
lieu of the regular appointee who was absent. He took for
his text: Rev. 1:5-6, "Now unto Him that loved us, and
washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us
kings and priests, to Him be glory and dominion, forever and
ever." The speaker said: "There are three reasons why all
glory should be ascribed to Him: (a) He hath loved us; (b)
He has washed us; (c) He has made us kings and priests
unto God." Rev. Maddox seemed to have enjoyed the op¬
portunity of speaking to the brethren, and the brethren cer¬
tainly enjoyed the sermon.
Letters was then read from quite a number of churches,
and the body organized by re-electing the same officers.
The address of welcome, delivered by Miss Lula Morse,
captivated the brethren, and the Moderator requested Dr. C.
T. Walker to respond. These exercises marked the open¬
ing of a meeting that was given to that remote vicinity be¬
cause of the loyalty of its church and pastor.
Rev. S. C. Walker, of Augusta, preached on Friday night
to a crowded house from Malaciah, 3:8, "Will a man rob
God." There was a depth of thought running through the
entire discourse, that would have done honor to an older
minister who had given years to the critical study of the
Word of God.
SATURDAY MORNING.
Two prominent visitors, viz.: Dr. E. K. Love and Rev.
D. D. Crawford, were introduced, and both of them made
short talks to the body.
62
The rally sermon of Dr. C. T. Walker at noon was de¬
cidedly one of the greatest ever delivered before the Asso¬
ciation. We have failed to comment, to any great extent,
on any of the sermons preached before the body, but it will
be remembered by those who heard this particular discourse,
that it lasted nearly two hours, and so intense- was the in¬
terest manifested in it, that the time passed unnoticed. The
collection amounted to $87.19.
At night, Rev. D. D. Crawford preached from II Kings,
11:23, "And as he went up from thence unto Bethel, as he
went there came out children and said unto him, go up thou,
bald head."
SUNDAY.
The Sunday School was given from 9 to 11, to hold a
mass meeting, in which many prominent workers took part.
At 11 o'clock, Rev. W. G. Johnson preached from Prov.,
30:28, "The spider taketh hold with his hands." This was a
great missionary sermon, delivered to a vast multitude, who
occupied every available space, both within and without, the
building. At the same hour, Rev. W. W. Jones, of Hephzi-
bah, preached at the stand.
On Sunday afternoon, Rev. H. C. Lane preached from
Luke,, 16:19, "They have Moses and the prophets, let them
hear them." The preacher had a host of anxious hearers, and
they were not disappointed in him.
At night the services were very much enjoyed, even
though many of the brethren were almost completely broken
down. In the absence of the brother who was to have
preached the sermon of the evening, the body held a busi¬
ness session.
Prof. C. A. Goodwin, ex-Principal of Walker Baptist In¬
stitute, carried his fight against the trustees of that school
to the Association. He had declined to deliver the keys and
books *to the Board during the summer. He brought them
to the Association and turned them over, and made a speech
defending his position. Dr. W. G. Johnson, President of
the Board, made a plain statement of the whole affair, which
63
proved that Prof. Goodwin, as a last resort, was only seek¬
ing to cripple the influence of the Board, and consequently
alienate many of those who had hitherto trusted .the judg¬
ment, as well as the honesty, of the managers of the insti¬
tution.
Prof. N. W. Curtwright, the new Principal of Walker
Baptist Institute, was present, and received a very cordial
welcome among the brethren.
The business of the body was finished by noon Monday,
and the Association adjourned with prayer by Rev. Peter
Walker.
ON THROUGH THE YEARS.
1899.
In the year of Our Lord, 1899, the Association met at
Springfield Baptist Church, Jefferson County, near Davis-
borough. The introductory sermon was preached by Rev.
John T. Smith (deceased), who prepared the following hymn,
written by himself and dedicated to the Walker Baptist As¬
sociation : *
Called by the iron tongue of time,
We from our homes have come,
To magnify God's holy name,
For giving us his Son.
For thirty-two years the Walker boys,
Were pilgrims on the road,
Instructing here, persuading there;
Behold the lamb of God!
Some of our fathers long have fell
Beneath the chastening rod.
Their mantles fell on able sons,
Who loved and served the Lord.
We come to Zion now to tell
Of twelve months sorrows past;
To drink afresh each other's thoughts,
And march cut to our task.
64
REV. SILAS X. FLOYD,
Trustee of Walker Baptist Institute and Principal Mauge Street School.
Lord, while we camp for these few clays,
Endow us with Thy love;
Send down the pentecostal shower.
Lord, send it from above.
By waters still, in pastures green,
Lord, lead this humble flock.
No name is like our Saviour Christ;
No rock like our Rock.
The physical weakness of this young man so recently
finished from school was so apparent, that the Association
was very deeply impressed, believing it to be his last effort
before the bod)'". After reading letters from ninety-one
churches, the body organized by re-electing the same officers.
On this occasion the Moderator departed from his usual cus¬
tom and delivered a timely and strong address in accepting
the chair as the head of the body. Rev. N. Walker, the
father of the Association, also made some timely remarks to
the young men who were so ably conducting the affairs that
laid so very close to his heart.
The introduction of prominent visitors and a sermon
Friday night by Rev. Davis S. Klugh, of Augusta, closed the
first day's services. On Saturday morning all interest was
centered in the farewell sermon to be delivered by Dr. C. T.
Walker, who had accepted a call to the Mt. Olive Baptist
Church, of New York City. When the hour came for the
delivery of this sermon, an anxious multitude assembled from
all of the neighboring churches, packed the house to over¬
flowing.
Dr. Walker took for his text Ezekiel, 2:1, "Son of
man, stand upon thy feet, and I will now speak unto thee."
The whole body broke down in tears as the great preacher
came to the close of his sermon.
The mass meeting held on the Sabbath and conducted
by G. H. Fuller, J. T. Smith and Miss Emma King, was
65
very interesting. Revs. W. S. Walker, W. J. White, D. D.,
Col. Thomas Hardeman White and Miss Matilda Jackson,
all delivered timely addresses.
Very able sermons were delivered during the day by
Revs. W. H. Bessent, H. H. Owens, Dr. W'. G. Johnson, J.
W. Weaver and P. Green. On Monday morning the Asso¬
ciation revoked its order granting free tuition to ministerial
students attending Walker Baptist Institute.
The Finance Committee, through its Chairman, Rev. R.
J. Johnson, used these introductory remarks:
"Your Committee on Finance, in performing the work
assigned to our hands, find that our churches are not indif¬
ferent to the financial interest of this Association; yet bad
leadership and other unholy influences, brought to bear upon
our people, is largely responsible for the small amount sent
up by many of our churches. Reports coming from various
parts of our bounds, show that some of our pastors have not
only failed to interest themselves or their people with refer¬
ence to the great financial need of this Association, but have
actually discouraged the zealous efforts of our once faithful
followers.
"We see a great need of some one who knows and un¬
derstands the work, to travel at least three months before
the meeting of the next Association, 'to show Jacob his sin
and Israel their trangression.' Wisdom demands, and the
existing conditions justify, such a course.
"We would not advise rebellion against pastors, but we
think that rebellion against pastors looks much better in the
sight of the Lord than a gross neglect of His cause and
Kingdom. We recommend that the Treasurer of this As¬
sociation be empowered to appoint a man to represent him
at each and every General Meeting of this Association; to
whom all money for the Association shall be immediately
paid."
These words show the mind of those who were in the
forefront, and who had surveyed the field carefully.
66
The Minutes of this meeting contain one of the strong^-
est appeals ever made to the people by the Executive Board
of the Association. It placed the running expenses of the
W'alker Baptist Institute at $180.00 per month, or $1,440.00
for eight months. An indebtedness amounting to $1,260.00
was hanging over the school, and this debt of some years'
standing, was a perpetual burden to the hearts of those who
were in daily touch with the work. The report closed with
a strong appeal to the Baptists to patronize the schools of
their own denomination.
We will close the record of this year by quoting the
resolution, offered by a special committee on the departure
of Dr. C. T. Walker:
"Whereas, Rev. C. T. Walker, D. D., pastor of Taber¬
nacle Baptist Church, Augusta, Ga., Vice-President of the
International Sunday School Convention, and Chaplain in
the late Spanish-American War, has been called to the pas¬
torate of Mr. Olivet Baptist Church, New York City; and
"Whereas, Dr. W'alker has accepted the call, and will
take charge of said church on the first Sunday in October;
"Resolved, That it is the sense of this body that we part
with him with great reluctance and sorrow; that Taberracle
Church, Augusta, the Walker Baptist Association and the
South, sustains great loss in what we believe to be his un¬
timely removal from us; that we heartily commend Dr. Wal¬
ker to the Mt. Olivet Church, and to the City of New York
as a wise leader, an able preacher, a profound lecturer, and
one of the brightest lights of the American nation; that as a
feeble expression of our esteem and love for him, his rail¬
road expenses to this Association be paid by this body; and
that we shall ever pray for his success and his speedy re¬
turn to the open hearts of a grateful and loving people.
"Respectfully submitted,
"T. J. HORNSBY, J. W. WHITEHEAD,
"D. S. KLUGH, H. C. LANE,
"W. G. JOHNSON."
67
CHAPTER 12—1900.
The Association at her meeting of 1900 broke all former
records, and silenced forever the mouths of those who said
that the heavy debt reported by the Board at the last session
would never be paid. It was at Elim Church, on "The
Hill," that this remarkable meeting was held, where lofty
hills and pleasing shade trees, supplemented the hospitality
of a thriving and zealous people, who had been elevated to a
position of honor by the wise and invincible leadership of
one or two of the ablest men known in the Baptist ranks of
the state.
The introductory sermon was preached on Friday by
Rev. A. L. D'Antignac, of Noah, from Heb., 4:9, "There re-
maineth, therefore, a rest to the people of God." The ser¬
mon was ably delivered and well received by the vast as¬
sembly. Rev. C. M. Wilkinson, of Hephzibah Association,
was introduced to the body, and made some timely remarks,
which was appreciated, both for their wisdom and earnest¬
ness. All of the old officers were re-elected by acclamation.
There was no display of royalty in the installation exercises,
but the faces of the brethren were beaming with cheer and
good will for their meek and distinguished Moderator, whose
love for humanity was almost unlimited.
Rev. C. L. Lawrence, of Wadley, preached on Friday
night from the text: "Make haste and come down." On
Saturday "the Rally Day," the day when the supreme efforts
of a few struggling leaders was to reach their climax, the
scenes around the little church beggared description. City
folks in gorgeous attire, mixing freely with the tillers of the
soil, was no uncommon sight. There was a common blend¬
ing of all forces to remove the financial burden from the
shoulders of the few who had staked their personal property
to keep the door of Walker Baptist Institute open. Dr. C.
T. Walker, according to a well established custom, preached
the sermon of the occasion from the text: "Speak to Israel
that they go forward." The name of this great preacher, so
CS
inseparably associated with the entire history of this or¬
ganization, make further comment unnecessary.
At the close of the sermon about $500.00 was laid on the
table. Saturday afternoon was given 'to Walker Baptist Sun¬
day School Convention. After listening to speeches by Revs.
R. J. Johnson and S. C. Walker, the President, Rev. W. A.
McC'loud, reported $165,000 sent up by that body to assist
in the educational work of the Association. The second day
service was closed with an able sermon by Rev. S. X. Floyd.
His text: Ecclesiastics 10th chapter and the first verse, was
somewhat peculiar to the ears of his hearers, but out of it he
got some startling truths that pleased and edified all hearers.
On the Sabbath, able sermons were delivered by Revs.
W. G. Johnson, D. D., B. B. Berrien, R. J. Johnson and W.
.F. Strickland. The report of the important part of Mon¬
day's session is recorded in the following words: At this time
in came the'peerless Rev. R. J. Johnson, in front of the
Finance Committee, singing "Free at Last!" The enthusi¬
asm of the Finance Committee was to the body what a
match is to a magazine. They shouted, tossed their hats, and
demonstrated their joy in every conceivable way. The re¬
port was adopted amid wild cheers. After the demonstra¬
tions had sufficiently ceased, sang "Praise God From Whom
All Blessings Flow," and Rev. Nathan Walker, who is the
founder of the Association and of the school, led in a touch¬
ing prayer of thanksgiving.
THE MORTGAGE BURNING.
The positions of honor on the program for the mort¬
gage burning were won and awarded by Rev." W. G. John¬
son, who planned the very unique scheme for raising the
money. Rev. S. C. Walker, who brought the largest amount
of money according to membership, was made Master of
Ceremonies. Deacon Alex Feeling, of McBean, was chosen
to burn the mortgage, he having given the largest individual
donation to the work. The honor of presenting the match
to be used on the occasion went to Frame Thomas, and the
69
honor of presenting the mortgages to be -burned went to
Deacon Spence.
The Association retired to the school building, down in
the city, on special cars provided for the occasion, and the
program began. Among the speakers were Revs. T. J.
Hornsby, James Campfield, W. W. Jones, J. M. Sapp, M. W.
Hart, W. H. Bessent, S. X. Floyd, G. J. Campbell, Sol Cum-
ming, H. H. Hanlcerson, W. A. McCloud, C. L. Lawrence,
A. L. D'Antignac, C. T. King, W. J. White, A. R. Johnson,
N. W. Curtwright„ G. A. Goodwin and H. L. Walker.
As we draw near the close of this record, we gradually
drop quotations from reports, as we believe that most of
those directly interested in the work have on file the minutes
of these last years, when the doings of one single year, if
told in detail, would fill several pages of this book.
The reader may find a further account of the proceed¬
ings of this, year in the History of Walker Baptist Institute,
on another page of this work. The coming generations may
witness greater achievements in the field of financial en¬
deavor, but they cannot surpass the sacrifice made by the
fiiends and members of the Association, a memory so sweet
that it must, indeed, survive the grave.
1901—SAN CLAIR, WADLEY, GA.
The meeting of the Association was held with the San
Clair Church, near Wadley, Ga. The introductory sermon
was preached by Rev. James Campfield from 1st Thess., 5:6,
"Therefore let us not sleep as do others, but let us watch
and be sober."
This meeting of the Association was saddened because
the Moderator was too feeble to preside over the delibera¬
tions of the body. For most of the time Rev. H. C. Lane
acted in his stead.
The first day's meeting was largely consumed with the
reading of letters and the election of officers. At night, Rev.
G. W. Harrison, of Augusta, preached by appointment from
Acts 7:5, "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?"
70
On Saturday morning, after the introduction of several
speakers, among- them being Prof. N. W. Curtwright, of
.Walker Baptist Institute, Rev. C. T. Walker delivered the
annual educational sermon from Isaiah, 52:1, "Awake, awake,
put on thy strength, O Zion," and the collection followed,
which amounted to $174.56.
At the afternoon session much time was given to
speakers representing the Walker Baptist Sunday School
Convention. Among them were Revs. iG. S. Kilpatrick, S.
C. Walker and W. A. McCloud. There was, however, one
question of importance settled that afternoon, viz.: "Which
one of the two State Conventions will Walker Association
be represented in officially at the next sitting of these
bodies?" It will be remembered that the Association took a
hands-off position at her annual meeting at Bottsford
Church in September, 1893, and from that time the members
of the Association had thrust upon them a do-as-you-please
permit which had been generally used in attending the meet¬
ings of the General State Baptist Convention. The motion
of Dr. W. G. Johnson to send delegates to the General State
Baptist Convention, commonly known as the New Conven¬
tion, met with,little or no opposition, as the interval between
the first and second action had settled all the important is¬
sues over which there was any possibility of dispute.
The second day's session was closed at 8 o'clock with
a sermon by Rev. J. W. Whitehead, of Augusta, who se¬
lected as his text Psalms, 145:3. Rev. Whitehead was at
his best on this occasion and made a lasting impression on
the brethren.
SUNDAY SERVICES.
At 9 o'clock a. m., Profs. S. X. Floyd and N. W. Curt¬
wright conducted the Sunday School mass meeting, and at
its close the annual missionary sermon was preached by
Rev. S. C. Walker from Rom., 10:1-15, and present en¬
joyed the sermon of this brilliant young man. In the after¬
noon, Rev. R. J. Johnson preached from Matt., 28:7, "He
7i
is not here, He is risen as He said." Another recess was
taken.
On Sunday night, Dr. W. G. Johnson preached from
Matt., 26:40-41, "Canst thou not watch with me one hour?"
On Monday morning the closing session was held, but
many of the delegates were absent. The Moderator, Rev.
T. J. Iiornsby, was donated $15.00 to help him in his afflic¬
tion. And, sure enough, it was the last opportunity the
brethren had to manifest, in a tangible way, their apprecia¬
tion of the long and faithiul services rendered by this able
leader whose life had influenced so many. .
On account of rain and other disadvantages, the money
raised at this meeting was so far short of the amount neces¬
sary to keep open the door of Walker Baptist Institute, each
of the Secretaries donated a part of their salaries to the treas¬
ury of the Association, to be used in operating the school.
Through the efforts of1 Drs. C. T. Walker and W. G.
Johnson $111.80 had been raised at the Mt. Olivet Baptist
Church, of New York City, of which Dr. Walker was pastor,
and this amount was handed into the Association.
Rev. Hornsby died before the Minutes of this meeting went
to press, and so we have the following memorial to him in
the same Minutes that gives an account of the doings of a
meeting over which he was the presiding officer:
In Memory
of
REV. THOMAS JEFFERSON HORNSBY,
Who Departed This Life November 10th, 1901.
He Was Our Moderator, Our Friend and Our Leader.
Peace to his ashes; we shall see him again.
72
REV. G. J. CAMPBELL, Trustee,
and Pastor of Beech Branch.
CHAPTER 13—A NEW ADMINISTRATION.
1902—BAR CAMP, NEAR MIDVILLE.
Perhaps no time in the history of the Association was
there such a large and interesting gathering as was assem¬
bled at Bar Camp Church on Friday, the opening day. For
ten months the question as to who was the better qualified
to be placed at the head of the body was the one uppermost
in the minds of the leaders of the Association. Many of
the leaders were freely spoken of, and regular campaigning
would have been the order of ten months effort were it not
that the members of Walker Association were unskilled in
the art. To a people who had enjoyed a long and happy
administration, the question not only involved the peace of
the meeting of the Association, but there was the greater
and more perplexing question of support for Walker Baptist
Institute, which could not be gathered under a leader in
whom the people could not confide.
Dr. W. G. Johnson, of Macon, one of the real and sac¬
rificing sons of the body, was put in nomination when the
time came for the election of officers,, but the nomination
of Dr. C. T. Walker, a life-long friend, and against whom
he was not willing to run, caused Dr. Johnson to withdraw
from the race, and all united in placing Dr. Walker in the
Moderator's chair.
Rev. S. X. Floyd presided as Temporary Moderator
until the body could organize, during which time the annual
introductory sermon was preached by Rev. I. J. Yancy, of
Stellaville, from Ps., 133:1, "Behold how good and pleasant
it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." The object
of the preacher v/as to impress upon the brethren the im¬
portance of standing together in making choice of the next
leader.
On Friday night, Rev. G. S. Kilpatrick preached from
Isaiah, 2:2. The sermon was well delivered and well re¬
ceived.
73
We copy the following from the Minutes of Saturday
morning: Introduced visiting ministers, as follows: Revs. G.
A. Goodwin, G. H. Hayward, F. Williams, J. M. Jones, E.
Pierce, H. J. Jackson, G. G. Corker and Rev. G. H. Howell,
who made some very touching remarks. Introduced the
Glee Club of Walker Baptist Institute in the person of
Misses Lucretia Jones, Katie Vincient„ Callie Handkerson,
and Messrs. Garfield Kyles and W. S. Hornsby, also Mrs.
Rev. T. J. Hornsby. Introduced the faculty of Walker Bap¬
tist Institute. Rev. G. A. Goodwin conducted the devotions
preparatory to the rally sermon. Dr. C. T. Walker read a
brief sketch of the Walker Association, and then sang "Blow
Ye Trumpet, Blow/' and preached the annual rally ser¬
mon from the text: "For he must reign till he has put all
enemies under his -feet." The contribution following this
discourse was $161.48.
There was a' club rally in the afternoon, as follows: San
Hill, $10.30; Pierce Grove, $2.00; San Clair, $10.00; Daniel
Grove, $7.75; Needful, $10.00; Rev. W. H. Bessent for his
church, $5.00; First McCoy, $10.00; Rocky Ford, $1.30; Cars-
well Grove, $4.73; McCoy, 60c.; Miss Bertha Harden, 50c.;
total collection, $62.28.
At night Rev. S. C. Walker preached a powerful ser¬
mon from Ps. 513.
THE SUNDAY SERMONS.
At 11 o'clock, Rev. Warren W. Jones preached the an¬
nual missionary sermon from Isaiah, 52 :i, "Awake, awake,
put on thy strength." At the same hour, at the stand, Rev.
B. B. Berrien preached from Heb., 10:7, "Lo! I come in the
volume of the book it is written of Me."
A GREAT MEMORIAL.
In the afternoon memorial exercises were held in mem¬
ory of Rev. T. J. Hornsby, Thomas Martin and Solomon
Cumming. Father Nathan Walker made the opening ad¬
dress, and was followed by Rev. Peter Walker, H. C. Lane
74
and C. T. Walker. These speakers had great difficulty in
suppressing the keen sorrow they felt at the loss of these
truly great men. Such sorrow as was felt at every men¬
tion. of the name of Rev. Hornsby usually find relief only in
tears.
On Sunday night the closing sermon was preached by
Rev R. W. Walker, of Augusta. Most of the delegates left
on Sunday afternoon.
At the close of the sermon on Sunday night the Asso¬
ciation adjourned'for another year.
1903—ANTIOCH, AUGUSTA.
Antioch Church,, Augusta, Rev. J. W. Whitehead, pas¬
tor, entertained the Association in 1903. It was a very happy
return to a city that had grown interested in the work of
Walker Association, and whose churches and homes were
open for her messengers, who came from many counties tc
the annual meeting.
The introductory sermon was preached by Rev. J. M,
Sapp from Ps., 68:31, "Princes shall come out of Egypt, and
Ethopia shall stretch forth her hands unto God."
Dr. Wallace Buttrick, of New York, representing the
General Educational Board of New York, addressed the
body at the close of the sermon, and made the hearts of the
brethren glad. He spoke of the -very high esteem in which
Dr. Walker is held by the friends of the race in the North.
He held out promises of help that encouraged the entire
body, who had been expecting just such help so long.
The welcome address was then read by Miss Lula B.
Johnson, which was responded to by Rev. B. B. Berrien.
A long line of visitors was present the opening day, and
they were all introduced, and a few of them made short ad¬
dresses. Prominent among them were Revs. F. A. Curt-
wright, W. J. White, D. D., Prof. R. R. Wright, of the State
College, and Dr. G. W. Raiford.
At the night session, Rev. Johnson F. Blair, of New
York, but member of Tabernacle Church of Augusta,
75
preached the sermon of the evening from Ps., 105:1-2, 'Oh
give thanks unto the Lord; call upon His name; make known
.His deeds among the people." This brilliant young man,
who was full of hope, has since fallen on sleep, and, there¬
fore, this, his last effort, before the body, must be recorded, as
the memory will be sweeter in future years when the fresh¬
ness of this record has died away.
On Saturday morning, Prof. N. W. Curtwright, Prin¬
cipal of Walker Baptist Institute, read a paper on "The Mis¬
sion of Walker Baptist Institute, and What It Has Accom¬
plished." He was followed by Rev. A. B. Murden, who
spoke in the interest of the General State Convention.
At 11 o'clock, Rev. C. T. Walker preached the annual
rally sermon from Heb., 6:12, "That ye be not slothful, but
followers of them whp through faith and patience inherited
the promise." The collection following this sermon was
$1,010 (one thousand and ten dollars), an amount never
reached before in any rally of the Association.
At night, Dr. E. R. Carter, of Atlanta, preached the
closing sermon of the day from Acts, 4:12, "Neither is there
salvation in any other name." Dr. Carter, while not a mem¬
ber of Walker Association, has been a member of the Board,
and is a great friend to education.
SUNDAY.
On the Sabbath the big tent was crowded all day. Rev.
C. J. Jones, of Waynesboro, preached the annual mission¬
ary sermon from Acts 27:31, "Except these abide in the ship
ye cannot be saved." This was a great effort, and those who
heard it declared it to be one of the best sermons preached
at that meeting.
Almost the entire Baptist family of the city turned out
at 3 o'clock to hear the noted preacher, Dr. W. G. Johnson,
of Macon, the Clerk of the Association, and President of the
General State Baptist Convention of Georgia. We have
withheld from others deserving comment, but the tempta¬
tion here is very great. There are few bodies in the state
76
that can boast of as large a number of able men as the
Walker Association.
At night, Rev. R. J. Johnson preached to. several hun¬
dred under the text from Ps. 2:4, "Ye that standeth in the
house of the Lord, praise ye the Lord."
THE CLOSING, MONDAY MORNING.
Monday was closing day. The delegates assembled
early, showing slight signs of weariness from having put in
a hard day's work for the Master at the various churches on
the sabbath.
Dr. C. S. Wilkins read a condensed report of his work
as theological instructor in Walker Baptist Institute, which
showed much progress made by the young men in the schoo*
who are aspiring to the ministry. The Moderator was do¬
nated $50.00. Dr. C. T. Walker accepted this money, not
as a donation, but as a part of the actual expense incurred
during the year in looking after the interest of the Associa¬
tion.
TEMPERANCE.
Perhaps the strongest temperance report ever read be-
.fore the body was prepared and read by Rev. S. C. Walker.
It follows: "We, your Committee on Temperance, beg leave
to submit the following report: We find intemperance to be
a great evil among our people; that we are intemperate in
no few ways. For intemperate eating, intemperate sleeping,
intemperate talking, intemperate money-spending, and in¬
temperate loafing are shutting us out from thousands of
opportunities that we might enjoy, even eternal life. But
we believe that the line of intemperance that is most dam¬
nable to the human family is liquor-drinking. Like a mad
tyrant it has destroyed thousands of lives and darkened many
homes.
"It represents the penitentiary, it is the standing agent
of the gallows, it is the devil's greatest preacher, and hell's
most honored ambassador. Hence, we believe that the'bev-
77
erage liquor business ought to die. No matter who does it,
no matter where it is done, no matter how it is done, no mat¬
ter how it pays, no matter how long it takes to kill it, no
matter how it dies, no matter what it pulls down with it
when it dies, it ought to die. We, therefore, ask that each
pastor, preacher, delegate go home to wage an uncompro¬
mising war against liquor, never to stop until every foe is
made to yield and fall among the slain."
And to these sentiments the whole assemblage said
amen.
1904—WAYS GROVE, STELLAVILLE.
In tracing the Walker Association from place to place
our interest increases as we journey, and come so near the
time where this record must close and leave the future to
those who must live and write after us. As we come to the
meeting of this year we are reminded that it was here, thirty-
six years ago, that this grand old body was organized in this
church, long before it was possible to gather so many of
the sons of Ham in one place.
The introductory sermon was preached by Rev. L. J.
Harden from the text: "Preach the Word," found in Second
Tim., 4:2.
The meeting of this year was not especially harmonious.
The only reason there was no serious disaffection was be¬
cause the brethren who differed widely on questions affect¬
ing the proper management of Walker Baptist Institute, were
men of a higher intelligence, who knew how painfully dam¬
aging it would be to appeal to the opinion of those who were
none too familiar with the merits of the question at issue.
The question boiled down was, whether or not, for the sake
of securing outside help, so much of the management 'of-
Walker Baptist Institute should be committed to those who
had seen none of the conflict through which so many of the
most loyal sons had passed.
This question had engaged the attention of the Board
from time to time, not that it had been presented directly
78
by any paricular individual, but it was nevertheless true that
there were those who had suggested several radical changes
in the Board's policy before any hope of relief could be held
out to the school. Some of the brethren appeared to be will¬
ing to concede almost anything for relief, while others equally
anxious for aid were not quite ready to yield to anything
that would rob the Association of its privileges and Walker
Baptist Institute of its right to keep forever in absolute con¬
trol of those who by the keenest sacrifices had made possi¬
ble the existence of the school.
It ought to be well known that the Walker Baptist As¬
sociation has always welcomed help from the friends of edu¬
cation everywhere, and that the representative of that help
has invariably been offered a place on the Executive Board,
so that, if desired, they could could direct its affairs. After
a brief time the chasm had been bridged and the Association
was again one great whole, working for the same end.
On Friday night the body listened to a sermon by Rev.
R. J. Johnson from Gen. 28:16, "And Jacob awaked out of
his sleep and said, 'Surely the Lord is in this place and I
knew it not.'"
Two excellent sermons were delivered on Saturday at
the morning session. Dr. C. T. Walker preached as usual
the rally sermon from Mark, 9123, "All things are possible to
him that believeth." At night, Rev. B. B. Berrien preachea
the able sermon from Ephesians, 4:3, "Endeavoring to keep
the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace." These were
the most important features of the day, the collection fall¬
ing just a little short of $1,000.
Sunday was a high day in Zion. Rev. J. W. (Whitehead
preached the annual missionary sermon from Luke, 10:2,
"The harvest is truly plentiful, 'but the laborers are but
few." The congregation being unusually large, services were
held at two stands in the grove at the same hour. Rev. G.
S. Kilpatrick spoke at one and Rev. Sandy Washington at
the other.
79
At 3 o'clock in the afternoon Dr. YV. G. Johnson preached
one of the greatest sermons of his life from Luke, 14:28,
"This man began to build and was not able to finish.
At night, Rev. H. C. Lane, who, perhaps, conducted the
memorial services of more annual meetings than any other
minister in the history of the Association, conducted the me¬
morial services in honor of the dead, taking as a text: 2 Tim.,
4:7, "I am now ready to be offered."
MONDAY MORNING.
There was a final closing up of all the business of the
body. A motion to make Dr. Walker Superintendent of
Walker Baptist Institute was not acted upon by the Asso¬
ciation, but referred to the Executive Board.
This Board, in making its report for the year now ended,
referred to the fact that through the influence of Dr. C. T.
Walker the services of Mr. H. C. Dugas had been secured
as Secretary and Business Manager of Walker Baptist In¬
stitute, and that Mr. George Foster Peabody, of New York,
had kindly consented to pay the salary of Mr. Dugas for one
year. The thanks of the body was extended to Dr. C. T.
Walker for securing the services of Mr. Dugas, and also do¬
nating a carpenter shop. "Blest Be the Tie That Binds" was
sung, and the Association took recess for another year.
1905—SPRINGFIELD, BURKE COUNTY.
Fully thirteen miles from the town of Waynesboro, east¬
ward, is to be found Springfield Baptist Church. Old in
years and proud of her wealthy members, she was a host
fully prepared for her guests, when the thirty-fifth annual
meeting was called to order on Friday morning, September
22, 1905—a very hot, dry and dusty day.
Rev. R. W. Marshall preached the introductory sermon
from Ps., 118:1, "Oh, give thanks unto the Lord, for He is
good, for His mercies endureth forever." It was Rev. Mar¬
shall's opportunity and he used it in a way that was a de-
80
H. C. YOUNG,
Trustee of Walker Baptist Association.
cided compliment to him personally as well as the men who
ordained him to the Gospel ministry. At the close of the
sermon the 'Moderator sang "Amazing Grace," and the
brethren indulged in a general handshaking.
At the afternoon meeting Friday, Dr. Walker delivered
an able address, and in it he recommended that the Walker
Baptist Institute be allowed to have a separate treasurer of
its own, whose duty it would be to handle and account to
the Trustee Board for all monies raised and expended for
the school.
On account of the lateness of the adjourning hour in the
afternoon, and the long distance that many of the delegates
had to go to rest during the night, there was no special ser¬
vices for the night. A few of the brethren stopping nearby
assembled and had a short praise service.
On Saturday morning, Dr. C. T. Walker delivered the
annual rally sermon from John, 8:36, "Ye shall know the
truth, and the truth shall make you free." The collection
amounted to $316.60, quite a falling off from the mark
reached in previous years.
Dr. W. G. Johnson addressed the Association in the in¬
terest of the Reformatory at Macon, Ga., under the auspices
of the General State Baptist Convention, and afterwards took
a collecion amounting to $35.45. Rev. W. A. McCloud fol¬
lowed with an address, at the close of which he presented,
on behalf of the Walker Baptist Sunday School Convention,
$287.12.
At night, Rev. A. L. D'Antignac preached an able ser¬
mon from Ex., 33:14, "Let My Lord, I pray thee, pass over
before His servant-."
SUNDAY.
At the morning session, Rev. R. J. Johnson preached the
annual missionary sermon from John, 14:15-16, "The disciples
came unto him and said,, 'Send the multitude away that they
may go and buy bread'; Jesus said unto them they need not
depart."
81
In the afternoon, Dr. W.'G. Johnson preached from Act,
11:26, "And the disciples were called Christians first at An-
tioch."
On Sunday night, after listening to a memorial sermon
by Rev. J. W. Weaver, from Tim., 4:7, the final business
meeting was held and the body adjourned to meet at Taber¬
nacle Church, September, 1906.
82
CHAPTER 14.
1906—TABERNACLE, AUGUSTA.
By this time there was a growing sentiment in the Wal¬
ker Association to establish permanent headquarters in Au¬
gusta, perhaps on the campus of Walker Baptist Institute, so
Dr. Walker,,, pastor of Tabernacle Church, arranged to have
the opening session at Tabernacle on Friday morning, and
then hold all subsequent meetings under a large tent at the
Walker Baptist Institute. This arrangement was very pleas¬
ing, indeed.
Rev. R. J. Johnson preached the introductory sermon
from James, 2123, "Abraham believed IGod, and it was im¬
puted to him for righteousness and he was called the friend
of God." The preacher closed his sermon with the follow¬
ing lines, which he had prepared especially for the occasion,
which was ordered printed in the Minutes of the Associa¬
tion :
Friends of God, your work's increasing,
Louder calls are made for men.
Not a man must aim at brethren;
All the fight must be on sin.
March behind your worthy leader,
Giving, praying, trusting God.
You can build a large brick building,
Even if the times are hard.
Stronger foes are armed to fight you;
Some are far and some are nigh,
But we'll show the world Monday
Walker School shall never die.
This old work, begun by fathers,
Must not die among the sons;
Rot and waste away to nothing,
Simply for the want of funds.
83
We can build the same fine churches,
Paint and ceil them through and through,
And with God and friends to help us,
Run the Walker Baptist, too.
The forenoon session was closed with an able address
by Dr. P. J. Bryant, of Atlanta,, representing the Baptist
Young People's Union of the State.
The entire afternoon was taken up with the addresses
of Dr. C. T. Walker and Rev. L. G. Jordan, Corresponding
Secretary of the Foreign Mission Board.
At night, Dr. E. R. Carter, of Atlanta, preached a very
able sermon from Gen., 32:24, "And Jacob was left alone
and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the
day."
Prof. R. R. Wright spoke at the close of the services in
the interest of the Negro State Fair.
The sermon of Dr. Walker on Saturday was from the
48th chapter of Isaiah, and 10th verse, "Behold, I have re¬
fined thee, but not with silver. I have chosen thee in the
furnace of affliction." At the close of the sermon there was
laid on the table $1,115.25, the largest single collection in the
history of the Association.
In the afternoon, Prof. J. E. Brown, the new Principal
of Walker Baptist Institute, was introduced, together with
Prof. P. A. Evans, a new member of the faculty. Rev. A. B.
Murden and Rev. L. G. Jordan, representing respectively the
General State Baptist Convention and the National Baptist-
Convention.
Rev. Charles Williams received the thanks of the body
for $10.00 sent by his church, Mt. Olive, to help in erecting
a new building.
At the evening session, Rev. W. W. Jones preached from
Luke, 19:13, "Occupy until I come." It was a great effor'
of a worthy young man.
84
SUNDAY.
There was an early prayer meeting held by the delegates,
and it was largely attended.
The Sunday School mass meeting was very interesting,
a num'ber of able and prominent speakers taking part in the
exercises. Prominently among them was Mrs. Dr. P. J.
Bryant, Atlanta, President of the Woman's State Auxiliary
Convention. Her address was timely and well received.
When the hour for pleaching arrived, the Moderator in¬
troduced to preach the annual missionary sermon Rev. G. S.
Kilpatrick, who selected for his text Ephesians, 3:17, "That
Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith, and that ye being
rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend
with all saints, what is the breadth and length and depth and
height' etc." At the close of the sermon a collection of $71.40
was taken.
In the afternoon, Dr. W. G. Johnson, of Macon, deliv¬
ered a great sermon from 1st Cor., 3:6, "I have planted,
Opollos watered, but God gave the increase." After the ser¬
mon Rev. P. E. Green led in prayer.
SUNDAY EVENING, 8 O'CLOCK.
Rev. S. W. H. Murray had been chosen to preach the
sermon of the hour and at the proper time he arose and se¬
lected for his text, Heb., 12:1, "Let us lay aside every weight,
and the sin that doth so easily beset us, and let us run with
patience the race set before us, looking unto Jesus." The
memorial services on this occasion consisted in a brief ser¬
vice conducted by Dr. W. G. Johnson, before the sermon.
Monday* was closing day. The attention of many of the
messengers had already been turned toward -home. The
ministers who had preached at the various churches in the
city during the Sabbath, reported after-collections taken for
Walker Baptist Institute.
Rev. G. W. Harrison reported for the Columbia County
Union Sunday School Convention, $11.00, and gave $5.00 for
himself personally.
?5
Rev. R. J. Johnson, through Rev. A. L. D'Antignac,
asked for a contribution to assist Spring Hill Church, Blythe,
Ga., place a tombstone over the grave of Rev. T. J. Hornsby.
who for so many years had been the leading spirit of the As¬
sociation On account of the pressing needs of the school,
no contribution was made from the treasury of the Associa¬
tion, but the body agreed to ask the various churches of the
Association to raise and forward to Rev. R. J. Johnson as
early as possible a contribution to assist in purchasing the
slab. After one year had passed Rev. Johnson reported that
only about $6.00 had been given by the churches, but Spring
Hill had placed the slab over the grave at a cost of $42.00,
which was, after all, a very small token of the respect and
confidence in which he was held by all the people during a
long life of usefulness.
A YEAR OF BLOODSHED.
The almost unparalleled record of race riots, lynchings
and murders in the state during this year was a matter of
serious reflection by the leaders of the people, and so we
have on record the following resolution, offered by Rev. W.
A. McCloud, of Wadley, Ga., and unanimously adopted by
the Association:
"Whereas, the negro is in this country, and here to stay,
this being its home, and where race antipathy is becoming
greater every day J and
"Whereas, the most friendly relations between the races
is necessary to peace and harmony, and the promotion of the
welfare of both races; and
"Whereas, something must be done at once to decrease
the hostile feeling between the races; be it
"Resolved, That this Association ask our Moderator,
Rev. C. T. Walker, D. D., L. L. D.,, to visit as many as pos¬
sible of the county seats of Georgia, and speak to our people,
advising them how to deport themselves in this crisis, and
that we request each meeting to provide for the expenses
attached to it.".
86
Rev. J. W. Weaver offered the closing prayer and the
Association adjourned for another year.
1907—PALMERS GROVE, GREEN'S CUT, GA.
The annual meeting of Walker Baptist Association was
held with Palmers Grove Baptist Church, one of the strong¬
est among the churches of the body. The introductory ser¬
mon was preached by Rev. S. J. Williams from Matt., 17:4,
"Lord, it is good for us to be here." This was, indeed, a
masterly discourse from start to finish. The .entire morning
session was given to the sermon, the reading of letters and
the election of officers for the following year.
In the afternoon, Rev. A. J. Walker, who had not been
in regular attendance upon the meetings of the body for
several years, led the devotions.
IMiss Ellen Wallace delivered the address of welcome on
behalf of the church, and Rev. W. A. McCloud responded in
chosen words.
There was one departure from the usual course pursued
by the Association, and that was when they elected the offi¬
cers before the Moderator had opportunity to deliver his an¬
nual address. But in the afternoon he was asked to deliver
it, which he did to the edification of the entire body.
On Friday night, Rev. C. J. Jones preached to an en¬
thusiastic congregation from Prov., 30:28, "The spider takes
hold with her hands, and is found in king's palaces."
When we come to the Saturday morning session, the
readers who have followed this account, are listening for the
name of a great preacher who for years has not failed to
preach the rally sermon of the body. It was simply impossi¬
ble to accommodate the great crowd who congregated long
before the time for Dr. C. T. Walker to deliver his sermon.
He took for his text: Prov., 22:28, "Remove not the ancient
landmark which the fathers have set." Collected more than
$900.00.
A greater part of Saturday afternoon was given to the
ladies to hold their annual rally, and at night Rev. R. W.
87
Walker preached to a large crowd from Ps., 72:17, "His
name shall endure forever."
Owing to the extreme distance many of the messengers
had to go to rest at night, a large number remained at the
church all night, and just before day engaged in a prayer
meeting that was greatly enjoyed by the brethren and sis¬
ters present. They ordered their meeting published in the
Minutes, and those who slept in beds thought it not robbery
to allow it to be done.
After day dawned they repaired to the neighboring
homes and besieged everything eatable in sight, knowing that
praying men were entitled to some consideration as well as
the more fortunate brethren, mostly ministers, who had en¬
joyed the hospitality of some very good homes.
1 After a lengthy mass meeting Sunday morning, Rev.
W. .G. Johnson preached the missionary sermon in the house
from Rev., 6:2, "And I saw and beheld a white horse and he
that sat on him had a bow, and a crown was given him and
he, went forth conquering and to conquer."
Rev. A. L. D'Antignac preached the same hour for the
ladies, at their hall. After taking a short recess, the body re¬
assembled and finished business, which was the earliest
closing on record. By Sunday night most of the messengers
were at home and resting under their own vine and fig tree.
The collection for the year was in every way encouraging.
1908—MACCEDONIA, AUGUSTA.
The increased interest in Walker Baptist Institute, and
a growing sentiment in favor of holding all of the annual
meetings in Augusta combined to bring about the happy
meeting of which we are about to speak. Every train coming
into the city on Friday morning brought happy messengers,
who were delighted to meet once more in a city that by un¬
stinted hospitality had won the admiration of the people of
'.he rural districts. It can be fittingly said in this connection
that Walker'' Baptist Association has done much in its ter¬
ritory to bring about a closer relation between the people
88
REV. S. W. H. MURRAY,
Pastor of St. John and Secretary of Sub-Board.
who tie to the soil and those who live in the city in the midst
»f all the advantages that such a life affords. Each have in
turn learned some valuable lessons one from the other.
After a prayer service that lasted for some time—and it
is an old custom of the brethren to do much praying at these
meetings—the introductory sermon was preached by Rev. J.
M. Siipp from John, 6:54, "Whoso eateth my flesh and
drinketh my blood, hath eternal life and I will raise him up
at the last day." Nobody knew why the preacher selected
this text for such a sermon as the occasion demanded, but
before he finished all were well pleased with the lessons
drawn from it.
Perhaps one of the most timely and interesting addresses
of welcome ever delivered before the body was read at this
meeting by Mrs. Lula James on behalf of the church. An
effort was made to have the address published within the
Minutes of the Association, but it was too great a departure
from the usual custom of the body.
Rev. G. R. Pinkston, of Macon, responded to it in a
happy style. Another address equally impressive was de¬
livered by Miss Lula Lawrence on behalf of the Woman's
'Missionary Society. To this address Miss Emma King re¬
sponded in well chosen words.
The body agreed to hold the afternoon session at Wal¬
ker Baptist Institute under a large tent that had been pro¬
vided for that purpose.
FRIDAY AFTERNOON.
Rev. C. T. King conducted the devotions, and many
brethren offered prayer before the business session began.
All other business was suspended to hear the address of
the Moderator, Dr. C. T. Walker, who reviewed the past of
the Association, and then went into a common sense discus¬
sion of the problems confronting the race. This was, how¬
ever, no new departure froir +Tie course, for it had been
the custom of this eminent preacher to seize every oppor¬
tunity to advise our people how to make the best of every
89
opportunity that came in their way, especially those which
gave promise of a better understanding between the races.
JUST A LITTLE FIGHT.
When the Committee on Application recommended the
reception of the Thompson Bridge Baptist Church, recently
come out from Bottsford Church, the messengers from Botts-
ford objected. Both sides were given a patient hearing by
the body, and after all the objections had been carefully con¬
sidered, the Association, by a large majority, agreed to ad¬
mit the church to membership. This quick adjustment of
the questions involved was certainly an improvement over
the past, when we remember that during the eighties the Mc¬
Coy trouble was before the Association about four years.
On Friday night, Rev. Charlie Williams, pastor of Mt.
Olive Baptist Church, Augusta, delivered the sermon of the
evening to a large audience that filled every available space
under a large tent. He selected as his text Acts, 8135, "Then
Philip opened his mouth and beginning at the same Scrip¬
ture, preached to him Jesus."
On Saturday morning, Dr. C. T. Walker preached from
Deut., 8:2, "And thou shall remember all of the way the Lord
thy God led thee these forty years." The sermon was a brief,
review of the history of the Association for forty years.
For the first time in the history of the Association boxes
containing provisions were received by the body in session.
They came from the First Baptist church, Millen, Ga., Rev.
R. J. Johnson, pastor; Deacon Joseph Handkinson, of Mc-
Bean, Ga., and Needful Baptist Church, Millen, Ga., Rev. S.
P. Campbell, pastor.
On Sunday morning a pouring rain made a large at¬
tendance impossible, but at 11 o'clock, Rev. A. L. D'Antignac
delivered the annual missionary sermon from Rom., 8:30,
"Moreover whom he did predestinate them He also called."
An after-collection was taken for Rev. J. W. Weaver, who
was at home sick, amounting to $11.05.
90
In the afternooii, Dr. W. G. Johnson, of Macon, preached
from Heb., 6.18-19, "That by two immutible things it was
impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consola¬
tion, who have fled for refuge to lay hold on the hope that is
set before us."
Sunday night, Rev. A. B. Murden, Corresponding Sec¬
retary of the General State Baptist Convention, preached the
closing sermon from Dan., 2:44, "In the days of these kings
shall the God of Heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never
be destroyed."
There was much business to arrange on Monday morn¬
ing when the house was called to order by the presiding offi¬
cer. It was the day when the fragments were to be gathered-
together.
Rev. G. W. Harrison reported from the Columbia Union
Sunday School Convention, of which he is president, $50.00,
which was received with a vote of thanks. This convention
has no connection with the Walker Baptist Association ex¬
cept the common interest that all should have in the intellec¬
tual development of the young.
Mrs. Elizabeth Berrien, of Millen, Ga., reported for the
Woman's Auxiliary $400.70.
The Reformatory at Macon, Ga., under the auspices of
the General State Baptist Convention of Georgia, was given
$40.00.
We copy the committee's report on the fallen heroes of
the past year:
In Loving Remembrance of Our Departed Hero,
REV. NATHAN WALKER.
Died 1907.
He Was Father of Walker Baptist Association,
The Founder of Walker Baptist Institute.
We Build Upon His Foundation.
Peace to his ashes.
or
MEMORIAL TRIBUTE TO THE FALLEN HEROES
OF THE PAST YEAR.
During the' past twelve months the following members
of Walker Baptist Association have passed to their eternal
reward in glory: Rev. Granderson Singleton, Rev. G. W.
Gwin, Rev. R. C. Calhoun, Rev. Amos Handkerson, Deacons
John C. Glover, of Augusta; Gilbert Johnson, of Hephzibah;
Alex Feeling, of 'McBean; Jerry Pughley, of Spread; S. A.
Allen, of Alexander, and S. A. Hill, of Jefferson County.
It is a fitting custom observed by this Association to set
apart at each annual meeting a stated time in which we
pause to pay tribute to our departed brethren, and drop a
tear upon their new-made graves. It is peculiarly appropri¬
ate that affectionate and tender mention should be made con¬
cerning the brethren named in this report, for they were,
without exception, men of good report and men of worthy
deeds. Than Deacon Feelings there was no man in our
bounds, whether preacher or layman, who individually gave
larger financial contributions for the support of our work,
and the Walker Baptist Association had in him a loyal son.
Our attention should also be called to the fact that Deacon
Gilbert Johnson, named in this eulogy, was the father of our
distinguished Clerk, W. G. Johnson, D. D., and also of our
faithful Treasurer, Rev. Roman J. Johnson. Of the ministers
named, Rev. G. Singleton was pastor of St. Clair Church at
the time of his death, and Rev. R. C. Calhoun was pastor of
Spring Branch Church when he died. Rev. Amos Handker¬
son was not in tl>e pastorate when he died, but was a most
faithful member of Springfield Baptist Church.
We regret to record that lips that were consecrated so
long to the business of proclaiming the truth as it is in Christ
Jesus are now forever silent in death, and those hands that
were once consecrated to the work of serving God and hu¬
manity are now quietly folded across innocent breasts, but
we feel sure that our loss is Heaven's gain. Our brethren
cannot come back to us, but we can go to them. Except to
9 2
say that we miss our friends, and that we hope to meet them
again, it is not necessary to dwell upon their departure. Let
us rather dwell upon the presence of the Lord with them and
with us. They have entered upon higher service. It is for
those of us who remain to tighten our girdles and take fresh
hold upon thework that they left for us to carry in the name
of Jesus.
Presently we shall see them again on the other shore, in
the light of the glory of the Lamb, and then certainly we
shall love them more.
S. X. FLOYD, G. S. KILPATRICK,
A. L. D'ANTIGNAC, Committee.
Thus we have told the story of the work carried on by
the Walker Association for a long period of, years, a work
that is capable of standing the test of time, and will ever be
to all who see its fruits a constant reminder that the accom¬
plishment of great things depend largely upon one's faith in
God and the possibilities which are in the way of a thoroughly
awakened people.
93
CHAPTER 15—SECTION 2.
'We give below a list of the churches which have united
with the Walker Baptist Association from time to time since
the organization at Ways Grove, A. D., 1868, until the pres¬
ent time.
In many cases the number of members, and the pastor's
name is omitted for the reason that the writer has not been
informed as to that particular church. You will note, also,
that many of the churches will appear blank, with nothing
said about pastor or members, because, in a number of cases,
the churches changed names without giving notice to the
Association, so we simply give the original name of the
church, which may or may not appear in the same table under
a different name. Churches marked "Lost" have not re¬
ported to the Association in several years, and may be dis¬
solved or affiliating with some other Association. In every
place where no change in pastors has been reported, the name
of the last one reported appears:
c
1868
1868
18'68
1868
1868
1868
1868
1869'
1869
1869
1869
1869
1869
1869
1870
1871
1871
1871
1872
1878
°4
® p
sj a
Ways Grove
P. Covenant
Smith Grove
McKinnie Branch...
Hopeful
Noah's Ark
Springfield
Watkinsville
African
Bottstford
Carswell Grove
Beech Branch
Pine Hill
Bethlehem
Needful
Maocedonia
■Murphey Ebenezer...
Spring Hill
Brinson Hill
McCoy
Harpers Grove
Harts Grove
Pine Hill
Forts Grove I
^ 0>
fc-l o
oM
"S "
£ cu
3 J3
og
Stellaville ...
Hephzibah ..
Noah
McBean
Burke Co. ..
Burke Co. ..
Jefferson ...
Burke Co. ..
Burke Co. ..
Burke Co. ..
Burke Co. ..
Burke Co. ...
Jefferson Co.
Jefferson Co.
Millen
Dawton
Burke Co. ..
Blythe
Wadley
Perkins
Burke Co. ..
Spread
Bunke Co. ..
Emanuel Co.
^ i-
<u <t>
■8.9
g S
3 <u
444
427
■414
261
450
65
■469
400
176
230
273
46
135
310
3'50
105
'200
611
45
S. J. Williams
S. C. Walker
H. C. CaTswell
S. S. Kilpatriek
R. W. Walker
J. H. Evans
J. H. Evans
J. M. Sapp
G. J. Campbell
C. J. Jones
S. P. Campbell
Lf. W. Kelsey
J. Lf. Lowry
R. J. Johnson
W. A. MoCloud
G. S. Kilpatriek
T. H. Holmes
S'. W. Washington
W. G. Farmer
94
< ri
o
2 *
i*
120
C
oS
Q)
C m
3.S
O g
OF
<X> <D
pO ^Q
Si
la
s
1879
1879
1879
1879
1879
1880
1881
1882
1882
1882
1882
1884
1884
1885
1885
1885
1885
1885
1885
1886
1886
1886
1886
1886
1888
1888
1889
1889
1889
1889
1890
1890
1890
1891
1891
1891
1891
1892
1892
1892
1892
1893
1893
1893
San Clair
Rooky Ford1
Green Branch ..
'Thankful
Magnolia
St. Clair
iSt. Paul
Palmers Grove ..,
Grays Grove ....
Salters Grove
S'havers Grove ..
Friendship
Dalton
Zion
McElmurray
Job Spring
Maccedonia
Gallilee
Prospect
Lovet 'Grove
Keys Grove ...,
Curby Grove ..,
Flat Rock
First Baptist ..,
>EIim
Mill Ground
Tabernacle
Eden
iSpring Branch ..
Antioch
Second "Baptist ..
Mount Olive
Solid Ro'ck
Union Grove
Roundtree Island
Perkins
Second McCoy ...
(Nazareth
St. James
Wards Grove
Daniel Grove
•Mount Sinai
Mount (Nebo ....
Mount Pleasant ..
Mount Zion
William Grove ...
Gordon Grove
Suimmerville .....
Fair Mount
18931St. John
1893
1894
1S'9'4
1894
1894
1895
1895
1895
1896
Evans Grove ...
Green Grove ...
Prestonia
ISt. Marion
First Baptist ..
'Tarver Grove ..
Clear 'Spring ...
Harden Grove
Franklin Grove
Wadley
Burke Co
Burke Co
Waynesboro
Avera
Burke Co
Burke Co
Burke Co
Burke Co
Davisboro
Jefferson Co. ...
Millen 9'9
S'creven Co I 200
Screven Co 60
Green's Cut 287
Burke Co | 115
Emanuel Co | 50
Emanuel Co
1547
150
Burke Co. .
Keysville ..
Screven Co.
Matthew ...
Millen
Augusta ...
Augusta ...
Louisville .
Auigusta ...
Augusta ...
Augusta ...
Columbia ..
Columbia ..
Burke Co. .
Emanuel ...
Jefferson ..
Jenkins
Augusta ...
Emanuel ...
Burke
Burke
Augusta ...
Augusta ...
Glascock ...
Emanuel ...
Waynesboro
Jefferson ..
Augusta
Augusta
Augusta ...
Augusta
Burke
Jefferson ..
Burke
Stillmore ...
Jefferson ...
Burke
Davisboro ..
Langtry
108
285
365
1666
230
45
390
130
14'5
140
40
150
72
A. L. CAntignac
E. J. Whitehead1
NT. Thomas
S. C. Walker
E. W. Burke.
A. L. D'An£ignac.
G. S. Kilpatriok.
S. C. Walker
W. H. Bessent
T. M. ,Sajpp
J. M. Sapp
R. W. Marshall
R. W. Roiberson
W. W. Jones
E. W. Burke
W. H. Bessent
Keysviille.
Woodcliff.
Augusta.
Augusta.
Augusta.
Keysville.
Hephzibah.
Augusta.
Waynesiboro.
Augusta.
Lost.
Perkins.
Augusta.
Millet, S. C.
Augusta.
Augusta
Waynesboro
Lost
R. W. Walker
W. W. Weaver
R. J. Johnson
~S. C. Walker, D. D
C. T. Walker, i). D
R. J. Johnson
J. B. Smith
J. W. Whitehead
Augusta
Lost
Auigusta
Augusta
Augusta
M. H. Hey war a
R. W. Walker
R. Malone
W. F. Brown
R. A. Clark
J. M. Sapp
T. M. iSapp
N. Thomas
E. C. Williams
B. B. Berrien
S. W. H. Murray
B. B. Berrien
W. A. MdCloud
P. E. Green
Auigusta
Augusta
Augusta
Augusta
Dissolved
Martinez
Augusta
Midvilie
Millen
Augusta
Lost
Perkins
Augusta
Augusta
Dismissed
Out
Out
Waynesboro
Millen
Lost
Lost
Augusta
Dissolved
Lost
Lost
Millen
Wadley
Wadley
Lost
95
O o
H to
© V
ZO
1896 Portersyi.lle
1896 Doyle Grove
1896|Piney Grove
1897 Second Mt. Moria'h..
1897 Bar Camp
1897 Maocedonia
1897 Mt. Olive
3 89-7 Kelsey Chapel
1897 Gardenersvllle
1897 St. Mary
1897 .Mt. Olive
1897 'Beech Branch
1897|Gethsemane
1897|OhooiPee
1898|Zion
1898|Tremont Temple
1898|Tabernacle
189.9lU-^fon
189'9lRichmond Hill
1899
1899
1900
1900
1901
Rook Hill
Second Springfield .
Poplar Head
Rose of Sharon
Brinson Grove
190ljLove and Charity.,
19011'Crawtford1 Grove ...
1902|New Light
1902|Belle Grove
1902]Camp!bell Baptist...
19021'Fi'rst Baptist
1903|Burns Grove
Gordon Hill
Frazierville ...
Hatchers
Mt. Horeb
First Baptist .
iStant'ial Union
IGood Hope ...
Central
First Baptist .
St. John
1903
1903
1905
1905
1906
1907
1908
1908
1908
1008
j'9'08|.TihO'mson Bridge
& T3
& a>
Eh o
u °
oa
s ®
6 !>
Burke
Blythe
Augusta
Harlem
Midville
Augusta
Emalane ...
Jenkins
Augusta
Emanuel
Screven
Burke
Augusta ....
Emanuel
Jefferson ...
Augusta
Savannah ..
Augusta ...
Richmond ..
Screven ....
Burke
Dearing
Columbia ..
Jefferson ...
Adrian
Evans
Woodcliff ...
Thomas
Midville ....
Emanuel ...
Scanboro ...
Green's Cut
Augusta ...
Shell Bluff .
Matthew ...
F'pread
Keysville ...
Augusta ...
Augusta ...
Wadley
Gravmount
Burke
*■< u
© <j>
■Q X2
6 £
tS ©
81
225
288
40
21
176
76
■60
375
30
63
40
310
54
■50
25
10
40
152
45
320
24
53
253
W. H. Bessent
R. W. Walker
G. H. Wei born
W. W Jones
A. P. Kelsey
B. B. Berrien
G. J. Campbell
T. H. Holmes
S. J. Williams
T. H. Dwell e
W. F. Franklin
W. G. Farmer
T. M. :Sapp
A. L. D'Antignac
M. H. Heyiward
W. G. Farmer
J. T. Taylor
C. T. Campbell
T. S. Douse
G. S. Kilpatrick
G. H. Mison
L. H. Barms
S. W. H. Murray
R. .T. Johnson
J. S. Campfield
John Burns
R. J. Johnson
M. T. J. Jones
W. S. Dickerson
W. W. Jones
Waynesboro
Augusta
Augusta
Out
Dismissed.
Augusta
Dissolved
Millen
Lost
Millen
Rosier
Augusta
Augusta
Lost
Augusta
Waynesboro
Millen
Augusta
Lost
Lost
Martinez
Millen
Thomas
Midville
3unch
Hephzibah
Augusta
Augusta
Augusta
Keysville
Augusta
Augusta
Waynesiboro
Millen
Augusta
The following table shows the various meeting places
of Walker Baptist Association, the officers, the number of
churches represented, the total membership, and the money-
raised. To gather and arrange this table required the most
careful investigation, respecting the first few years of its his¬
tory. In the outset it was our purpose to prepare a drawing
representing the pathway of the organization from 1868 until
now, but the task was too great for me.
96
MISS INEZ L. JOHNSON,
Teacher Walker Baptist Institute
As you read, note the years when there was an increase
in membership but a decrease in money raised. And then as
you figure on these results, remember that certain economi¬
cal conditions, short crops, and numerous conditions were
more at fault than any imaginary obstacles in the way.. As
Dr. C. T. Walker has said, the route while winding in its
course, led the brethren through wildernesses where they
gained experiences that to an oppressed people is worth their
weight in gold. Read the table carefully:
c3 D
E 3
.186'8 Ways Grove
1669 Franklin Covenant.,
18701 Bottsford
1ST1 [Noah's Ark
1872|>Nieed<fuH
1873|Pine Hill, Jefferson.
1874|Hopeful
1875
1876
1877
1878
1879
1S80
1881
1882
188S
1884
1885
188'6
1887
1888
1S89
Pine Hill, Burke....
Springfield, Burke...
Ways Grove
F. ICovenant
Maccedonia, Burke..
Bottsford
San iGlafir
iCarswell Grove
M'CKinnie Branch ..
Needful
-Pine Hill, Jefferson.
McEvmurray , Sip ring.
Smith .Grove
"Springfield, Burke..
Sipringfield, Jefferson
1890 Palmer Grove
1891 iCarswell Grove
1892 ISan Clair
1S9'3 Bottsford
1894 Harts Grove
1895 Brinson Hill
]896|Tabernacle
l897fThan'kful .
1898 f Eden
Rev. P. Walker.
N. Walker
N. Walker
N. Walker
N. Walker
N. Walker
N. Wa lker
N. Walker
N. Walker
N. Walker
N. Walker
N. Walker
N. Walker
N. Walker
N. Walker
N. Walker
T. J. Hornsiby...
T.
T.
" w
u 0)
%%
Ss
zo
J.
J.
Hornsby...
Hornsby...
J.
Hornsby...
J.
J.
Hornsby..
Hornsby...
J.
Hornsiby. • •
J.
Hornsby...
J.
Hornshy..
J.
Hornstoy..
J.
Horns'by..
J.
Hornstoy..
J.
Hornsby..
J.
Hornsiby..
J.
Horns'by..
Ed.
Young ...
— Harison
J. C. Hickman
J. C. Hickman
J. C. Hickman
J. C. Hickman
J. C. Hickman
T. J. Hornsby
T. J. Hornstoy
T. J. Hornsiby
T. J. Hornsby
T. J. Hornsby
T. J. Horns'by
T. J. Hornsby.
T. J. Hornsiby
T. J. Hornsiby
C. T. Walker
C. T. Walker
C. T. Walker
C. T. Walker and
IS'. Y. Pope
S. Y. Pope and
A. L. D'Antignac.
A. L. D'Antignac
Pope and
D'Antignac
Pope and
D'Atignac
Pope and
D'Antignac
Pope and
D'Antignac
W. G. Johnson and..
D'Antignac
Johnson and
D'Antignac
Johnson and1
D'Antignac
Johnson and
D'Antignac
Johnson and
D'Antignac
24
26
28
28
34
34
37
38
38
39
45
44
51
53
•53
'57
59'
63
68
76
84
8'6
89
91
3,178 $
3,220
3,2901
3,45±1
3,508
3,710
3,860
3,955
4,814
5,120
4,438
•5,128
5,669
■6,401
6,219
6,170'
6,540
8,227
8,1.98
8,586
91,755
•9,984
10,640
12,694
97
Year.
Place of
Meeting.
Moderator,
Clerk.
O oj"
EH f
P
£0
.&
s
ai
U
<f
.a
S
©
a
Money
Raised.
1899
Springfield, Jefferson
T.
J.
Hornsby...
Johnson and'
<8#
11,2M
811.00
D'Antignac
1900
Blim
T.
J.
Horns'by...
12,649
2,3 07.09
D'Antignac
1901
San Clair
T.
J.
Hornsby...
■XK
12,586
1,091.25
D'Antignac
19IM
Bar Camp
C.
T.
Walker
97
13,000
1,726.00
190R
D'Antignac
Antiach
C.
T.
Walker
'99
15,098
3,034.70
D'Antignac
1904
Wlays Grove
C.
T.
Wal'ker
99
15,024
2,691.46
D'Antignac
190b
Springfield, Burke ..
C,
T.
Walker
Johnson and
100
15,081
2,054.64
1906
D'Antignac
Tabernacle
c.
T.
Walker
101
15,170
4,077.70
D'Antignac
190 V
Pialmer Grove
c.
T.
Wal'ker
103
1908
Macedonia, Augusta.
D'Antignac
c.
T.
Walker
Johnson and
98
14,221
8,50i6.00
D'Antignac
Note: If we estimate that there was an average of $200
given annually during the first seven years of the Associa¬
tion, which, to my opinion, is a very conservative one, we
have an additional^ amount of $1,400, making the grand total
of money raised by the Association $35,490.15. Even these
figures do not include amounts raised by churches and sent
up between the Annual Meetings to assist an running the
school. As it is, the average is $887.25 per year.
98
CHAPTER 16—SECTION 3.
WALKER BAPTIST INSTITUTE.
This school, located in the southern part of the City of
Augusta,is the flourishing child of the Walker Baptist Asso¬
ciation, and is the only school of higher education among
the Baptist of that section of the state. Like every other
negro enterprise, it was born in the midst of opposition, both
internal and external, which, after all, has made it one of the
strongest institutions of its kind anywhere. It had a very
humble beginning in the town of Waynesboro, January, A.
D., 1881. For at least seven years prior to this time, Rev.
Nathan Walker and his associates, Revs. Peter Walker, R.
Whitehead and others, had striven to arouse a healthy senti¬
ment in favor of such an undertaking. When we mention
the names of these distinguished men and recollect that they
were unlearned men, the question naturally arises: How
could these men, so lately emancipated, conceive the idea of
establishing and maintaining such a school at such a cost of
time, money and energy?
Somehow on account of the frailty of mankind, only a
few men live to see the seed sown, in bloom, much less to
reap the fruit. The fond hope of many of the fathers who
occupied lowly positions in life was not realized until they
were called from labor to reward. It happened, however,
that they enjoyed the planting, and willed the fruit to unborn
generations.
I am here reminded that the fathers, as well as the sons,
of the Walker Association have, from the days of slavery,
shown a large measure of intelligence somewhat in advance
of the age and opportunity enjoyed. To say the least, they
showed evidences of a higher intelligence than was common
among the race.
Even Uncle Joseph Walker, in whose honor the Associa¬
tion was named, was thought worthy of his freedom in the
QQ
days of slavery, and was liberated at a small cost in order
that his full time might be given to the work of the ministry.
From 1871 to 1881 nothing much was accomplished ex¬
cept the moulding of a healthy sentiment in favor of estab¬
lishing the school, and during this period the leading lights
of the Hephzibah Association (white), who had an interest
in the leaders of the Walker Association, first as former
slaves, and second as Baptists, took an active part in the de¬
liberations of the body, and encouraged the movement in a
way that was very remarkable for the times.
The Thomas Grove Baptist Church, of Waynesboro, Ga.,
in default of the payment of some claim against them, had
to give up the house in which they worshiped. The trus¬
tees of Walker Baptist Association purchased the property
and opened the First Class School (as it was then called) in
the same house so long occupied by Thomas Grove Church.
Col. J. J. Jones was paid $350.00 for the property, and
there, with Prof. H. B. iGarven as principal, Walker Baptist
Institute had its humble beginning.
After the actual opening of the school it was called Wal¬
ker High School, by which name it was known until 1892.
Prof. Garven was assisted by Prof. P. C. Watts and Miss M.
A. Grant, and the school term lasted three months. The
Trustees of Walker Baptist Association, unable to carry on
the school for any considerable length of time, affected an
arrangement with the County Board of Education so that
the public school pupils and the High School students could
be in the same room, under the same teachers, and each
board equally responsible for the payment of salaries. In
1883 the school was suspended for the want of sufficient
funds, but was reopened in 1884 with Prof. S. Y. Pope,
Principal, and Mrs. Lula Pope as Assistant Principal. Cer¬
tain developments as regarded the treatment of the larger
boys attending the school convinced the Board of Trustees
that a small town like Waynesboro could not protect the
person of those black boys, whose age, according to the opin-
100
ion of those times, should have their hands tied to the soil. So
in keeping with the spirit of the promoters of this laudable
enterprise, a special committee was appointed to visit IMil-
len and purchase nine acres of land that was offered to the
Board, just outside of the town limits. This land was pur¬
chased, but never improved, and the school was allowed to
continue at Waynesboro.
Thankful Baptist Church purchased the house owned by-
Walker Baptist Association for $300.00, and a better site was
purchased about one mile out from the heart of the town,
and a handsome four-room building erected at a cost of
$1,186.00.
WALKER BAPTIST INSTITUTE.
The new building was dedicated with fitting ceremony
October, 1887, Rev. Lansing Burrows delivering the address
of the occasion. It was during these years of rapid changes
that Prof. Joseph Walker was elected Associate Principal
of the school. This was in 1888. Prof. Walker brought to
the school that recognition by the people of the rural dis¬
tricts that made him absolutely indispensable.
In 1887 the Association assembled with the Smith Grove
•Baptist Church and raised her first large sum for the sup¬
port of the school. The amount raised was $821.00, and with
this amount in sight there were manifestations of great joy
among those whose efforts had been signally blessed. In the
account of these years, given in the records of the Associa¬
tion on another page, the reader may find a much fuller ac¬
count of the things that took place from 1887 to 1892. Well,
we have come at last to a time, within the memory of many
of those who now live and labor for the school, recognizing
it as a rich legacy handed down to them for the moral and
intellectual development of themselves and their children.
Under a resolution offered by Rev. C. T. Walker, D. D.,
the Trustees were ordered to move the school to Augusta,
and time has proven that the idea was well worthy of the
man who advanced it. There was no further delay; for the
101
records show that the school was opened in Augusta in the
fall of 1892, not in the building which it now occupies, but
in Antioch Baptist Church, until the school building, then
going up, could be completed. At the opening of the school
in Augusta, the following teachers were elected, viz.: Prof.
G. A. Goodwin, Principal, and Prof. Joseph A. Walker, As¬
sociate Principal.
'The first building was erected at a cost of $4,000.00, with
chapel, office and six recitation rooms, with space in the third
story for dormitories for boys. Until now nothing has been
done toward making any further improvement, but nine years
ago a new addition was made at a cost of $1,500.00, which
has been given to girls.
102
1892—CHAPTER 14.
STRUGGLES IN A BAPTIST CITY.
The Scriptural declaration that "a prohpet is not with¬
out honor saving in his own country and among his own
kindred," was fully recognized by those who felt that the de¬
nomination would embrace the opportunity offered by the
school to protect their children against the usual results of
unbaptistic training. We will kindly leave out what were
the probable reasons for this strong opposition to the school,
but the Home Mission Society of New York agreed to con¬
tribute $500.00 (five hundred dollars) annually to assist in
paying teachers. This annual contribution from the Home.
Mission Society has never been withdrawn or increased.
At San Clair Baptist Church, Wadley, Ga., Rev. W. G.
Johnson, D. D., offered a resolution which changed the name
of the school from Walker High School to Walker Baptist
Institute. One thing here is praiseworthy, and that is, that
the Association did not desire to have the school sail under
false colors. No little pressure has been brought to bear on
the Trustees of Walker Baptist Institute to change its name
in order to get the help of philanthropists who are not too
much in love with denominational schools. But what is the
use of doing under guise that which every consideration of
honesty and truth demands should be done openly? We
will take up this subject in another chapter under Our Ap¬
peal to Justice.
Mrs. Amelia W. Sullivan was elected teacher of the pri¬
mary department and Miss Lillie A. Lee, teacher in the High
School department in the fall of 1893; and, with these addi¬
tions, the school set out to rival other institutions already
well established in Augusta. Prof. C. A. Dryscal the same
year gave instructions in music. It was not long before the
building at Waynesboro was destroyed by fire. This acci¬
dent entailed a loss that was only partly covered by insur¬
ance.
103
For one year Mrs. Ella James (now Mrs. Ella Floyd)
taught sewing, and was highly esteemed for her ability and
Christian influence over the student body. Nothing too
good can be said of those teachers who served in any ca¬
pacity during those years when the Trustees were not able
to compensate them in full for services rendered. Near the
close of the term of 1894-95, Prof. Joseph A. Walker, who was
perhaps the meekest teacher ever connected with the school,
departed this life, and the task of supplying the place made
vacant by his death was no small problem to those who knew
the real worth of the departed.
Miss B. B. Lyons, a recent graduate of the school, and
Prof. A. L. Wilkins were added to the faculty for the term be¬
ginning September, 1895. Prof. Wilkins resigned his position
after about three months service, to take charge of another
school. Mrs. Amelia W. Sullivan also resigned the 1st of
January, 1896, to take a position in the public schools of the
city, but the position was immediately filled by Miss S. Lizzie
Carr, who was altogether equal to the task. In the absence
of Miss Lee, who did not return in the fall of 1896, iMiss
Georgia Palmer was elected to her position. Miss Eugenia
W'hitmore succeeded Prof. Dryscal as instructor in music.
The same year Rev. David S. Klugh was elected instructor
in theology. In 1897 Miss Whitmore was elected teacher of
the primary department to succeed Miss Carr, resigned.
f 04
CHAPTER 16—TROUBLESOME TIMES.
A CHANGE IN THE FACULTY.
At the close of the term 1896-97 much trouble arose over
the determination of the Trustees of the school to change prin¬
cipals. Prof. G. A. Goodwin, who had served for so many
years, was closing out a very successful year, and yet there
was a firm determination on the part of a majority of the
Trustees to make a change. There was nothing against the
character of Prof. Goodwin, but the Trustees felt that a man
could be found who, from their point of view, could better
serve the interest of Trustees and students alike. That Prof.
Goodwin was,, perhaps, the strongest Baptist that ever pre¬
sided over the school, no one who knows the man will deny.
He had a wealth of character, a fountain of knowledge, and
was full of zeal for the well-being of his denomination and
his race. He possesses a persistent nature, and was, there¬
fore, doomed to friction with the Board of Trustees, who
wanted their opinion respected in all things regarding the
management of the school.
After hearing reports, the Board went into .the election
of teachers and Prof. N. W. Curtwright, of Greensboro, Ga.,
was elected Principal of the school for the term 1897-98. The
American Baptist Home Mission Society waited some time
to confirm the appointment of Prof. Curtwright, but the Board
was satisfied with her choice and did not withdraw his name.
Under Prof. Curtwright the Trustees made their first at¬
tempt to operate a boarding department. The boarding de¬
partment was run on a small scale, with Mrs. Beatrice Curt¬
wright, Matron. Miss Eugenia Whitmore married in April,
1900, and Miss Rachel T. Walker, now Mrs. Briggs, completed
the term.
Miss Georgia Palmer resigned January 14, 1901, to unite
in marriage with Rev. Johnson Blair (deceased) and Mrs.
Beatrice Curtwright was elected to fill the vacancy.
105
THE MORTGAGE BURNING.
At Elim Church, on the Sand Hill, A. D., 1900, Rev. S.
C. Walker, pastor, the Association surpassed the expectations
of those who had labored with a mixture of hope and fear. A
mortgage for $2,000.00 had been hanging over the school for
a number of years, and Dr. W. G. Johnson, the Financial Sec¬
retary, had traveled all over the bounds stirring up the
churches. Stalwart men were actually drunk with enthu¬
siasm to engage in a battle of dollars on Saturday, expecting
to come off the field triumphant, and celebrate that victory
by literally burning the mortgage on Monday in the presence
of thousands who were expected to assemble to witness the
sight. On Monday the Finance Committee reported as sent
up by the churches, $2,305.00, and the burning of the mort¬
gage was assured. The story of the mortgage-burning, which
took place on Monday, will be told in the history of the As¬
sociation.
'The death of Rev. T. J. Hornsby, Moderator of the Asso¬
ciation, November 10, 1901, cast a gloom over the entire body,
and removed its leading light. Walker Baptist Institute was
then like a ship without anchor. But when the Association
met at Bar Camp Church, in September of that year, his man¬
tle fell upon the powerful shoulders of Dr. C. T. Walker, a
man whose fame had covered nearly two continents, and who
was known far and near for his almost unequal power in the
pulpit and his ability to swa}?- men.
For the term 1903-04 Mrs. Emma Reed was elected Ma¬
tron and Mr. H. C. Dugas was elected Secretary and Busi¬
ness Manager. Mrs. Beatrice Curtwright was elected teacher
of the primary department, but in January, 1901, she was pro¬
moted to the grammar department, and Mrs. David S. Klugh
was chosen to teach in the primary department.
The next teacher elected was Miss Eula B. Whitmore,
who served with efficiency for a number of years. It will
be observed by the reader the changes in the primary depart¬
ment were many before we can learn to know the last men-
106
tioned primary teacher, Mrs. Janie M. Smith is chosen to suc¬
ceed Mrs. Klugh.
•We are very anxious to finish this dry record of the dif¬
ferent teachers who from time to time filled various positions,
but we cannot leave out a single one and declare we have
given a full history of Walker Baptist Institute. Dr. C. S.
Wilkins succeeded Dr. Klugh in 1892, Dr. Klugh having been
called to the pastorate of a church in Princeton, N. J.
•Miss L. D. Davis was elected teacher of English about
the middle of the term 1904-05, and served with proficiency
until the close of the term 1906-07, and Mrs. Florida DesVer-
ney was musical director. For the term 1904-05, Miss Wil¬
lie Palmer (now Mrs. Willie P. White) was elected sewing
teadher and is still serving with efficiency.
107
CHAPTER 17—1905.
ANOTHER CHANGE.
Prof. N. 'W. Curtwright tendered his resignation at the
close of the term 1905, and during the summer vacation the
school was without a principal; but Prof. J. E. Brown was
elected to that position just before the opening of the school,
the middle of September. Mrs. Curtwright resigned also and
Prof. Harper was chosen to fill the position made vacant by
the resignation of Mrs. Curtwright. Prof. Brown served two
years as Principal under Dr. C. T. Walker, whom the Board
had elected President. While Dr. Walker filled that position
for a number of yearsr he was far too busy with his pastoral
work to stick to the school room, or assume the responsibili¬
ties which the position carried.
Miss B. B. Lyons before her marriage and resignation,
1907, bore the distinction of being the oldest teacher in point
of service connected with the school. Prof. P. A. Evans, of
White Plains, Ga., was elected professor of mathematics in
1896, and is at present in faithfulness, ability and deportment
a constant reminder of the sainted Prof. Joseph A. Walker, of
whom we -have already spoken. At the close of the term
1906-07 Miss Lillie A. Lee, so long and faithfully known as
the strongest force among girls for the development of noble
characters, was given twelve months' leave of absence, and
Prof. V. N. Carney was elected to fill her position.
PROF. P. G. APPLING, OF MACON.
This young man's administration has been somewhat
peculiar. He is at this writing acting principal of the school,
and is now closing his second term in that capacity. The re¬
markable thing about it all is that, like an untiring servant
of the people, he tabors on incessantly, manifesting no inclin¬
ation for promotion, even though he has proven himself emi¬
nently qualified for the highest position the school affords.
This youthful but untiring worker is destined to accomplish
more than any of his predecessors because he recognizes tlie
108
importance, and labors for the unity of all the forces con¬
cerned in the successful operation of the institution.
Mrs. Emma Evans and Miss Marietta James were both
elected new teachers for the term 1907-08, and has already
heightened the standard of the school. Prof. Carney was re¬
elected for the term 1908-09, but never returned to work
after his summer vacation. Rev. S. C. Walker was elected to
fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Prof. H. C.
Dugas, who resigned at the opening of the school term 1908.
As Business Manager,.' Prof. Dugas's business ability could
never be questioned. He possesses those qualities that will
give him success in any field of endeavor. Rev. E. G. Thomas,
theological instructor, Mrs. Katie Vincent Lamar and Miss
Inez Louise Johnson are the latest additions to the faculty.
At this time, March 19, 1909, the faculty is composed of
the following, viz.: Prof. P. G. Appling, Assistant Principal,
assisted by Profs. P. A. Evans, E. G. Thomas, Misses Inez L.
Johnson, Marietta James, Sabrie Ketch and Mesdames Emma
Evans, Janie M. Smith, Katie Lamar, and Willie P. White;
with Mrs. Emma Reed, Matron; Mrs. M. A. Irving, Chief
Cook, and Rev. S. C. W'alker, Business Manager.
At present there is but little room for boarders. Scarce¬
ly more than twenty girls and fifteen boys can be accommo¬
dated within the school. A handsome brick building, almost
complete, but for which the Association is deeply in debt, will
when completed, furnish ample accommodation for all the
students that are expected in many years.
In this brief sketch I have not taken the time to com¬
mend the work of the Trustees or any member of the Faculty.
The story rightly told would make a volume of considerable
size. In starting out it was my purpose to give in detail the
important part of what to thousands will be sacred informa¬
tion. We are still building on a foundation laid by rougher
hands, but it is as sacred as the memory of our departed and
as firm as the hills of Mt. Zion. Step by step we have climbed
upward amid the changes of sentiment, and the muttering of
our foes, shouting now and then at the approach of an avowed
109
friend, but never weakening, even when our own intrepid
leaders seemed dismayed.
Thousands without and a few within are charmed into
unwilling silence by our achievements. We feel confident
that years after the departure of the present forces many men
of renown, and women of character and standing will go forth
from this school making the world better, and proving con¬
clusively that the mind of the fathers were guided by the will
of God. The sovereign God of all the nations in mapping out
the program of all the ages, did' not pour into a few years
all the great blessings in store for any race or nation. In¬
stitutions, like individuals, go up against giant forces, and, like
new-born babes, must have a spell of weeping before it can
qualify for that usefulness for which they were created.
Pressed on and on by the lamentations of our sorely op¬
pressed people, we rally to our leader's call, not because the
task is easy, but because the experience of years, as well as
the history of nations, have taught us that the philanthropy
of the American nation never look for those who sleep.
Nothing but our means and opportunities shall limit the
field of our endeavor, for year by year the increasing demand
for schools of this class make it imperative upon the man¬
agement to keep an open door of approach to that kind of
knowledge, without which it is impossible to fill even an
ordinary place an history.
May Walker Baptist Institute by example of self-help
appeal to the consideration of all the people until some
"Prince of Brotherly Kindness" imbibe the spirit of the fath¬
ers and come to the rescue of the men whose arms already
well bent with the strain, are still struggling to make the
school a monument to the imperis'hable memory of those who
spent the strength of gifted minds in making possible the ex¬
istence of this laudable enterprise.
THE SEWING DEPARTMENT.
This department, under Mrs. Willie P. White and Miss
Sabra Ketch, has done great good, and in the last three years
no
several have received certificates. They have gone home to
make the burden there much lighter.
Faculty elected for 1909-1910: President, Dr. S. M. Vass,
Raleigh, N. C.; Vice-President, P. G. Appling, Macon, Ga.;
P. A. Evans, White Plains, Ga.; Arthur Curtwright, Greens¬
boro, Ga.; Misses Inez L. Johnson, Augusta, Ga.; Janie M.
Smith, Augusta, Ga.; Marietta James, Augusta, Ga.; Mrs.
Emma Evans, Augusta, Ga.; Rev. S. C. Walker, Business
Manager, Augusta, Ga.; Mrs. Emma Reed, IMatron, Au¬
gusta, Ga.
hi
CHAPTER 17.
SOME GRADUATES OF WALKER BAPTIST INSTI¬
TUTE AND WHAT THEY ARE DOING.
The graduates of any school may do loud speaking for
it, not so much with tongue or pen, as by the worthy and
useful lives they may live among the people. The educated
man or woman is doubly obligated to work, not only for his
or her own support, but also that they may show to others
how education may be used and applied to every vocation
in life. That the negro when given an opportunity to know,
will put that knowledge to use in the interest of himself and
his race, is a fact too fully established to need defense here.
The wonder is, how the black man with such small space for
diversified effort along lines of self-help, has attained such a
height in the industrial world. Limited and circumscribed
by prejudice, and the shade of his skin, laboring daily under
humiliations that would enrage the passions, and utterly de¬
stroy the hopes of any other people, he moves on enduring -
the ever tightening fetters that bind both soul and body;
and in the face of the most harrowing discriminations, swears
allegiance to a flag that at best, only protects him when his
stronger neighbors testify to his honesty, industry and hu¬
mility.
The graduates of Walker Baptist Institute went out with
a full understanding of the tremendous difficulties in the
way of the youths of the race, so that by the exercise of keen
judgment and discression, they have been a great blessing
to all the people, irrespective of race or condition.
The first class came out in 1894 under Prof. G. A. Good¬
win, and of this number two are dead and four survive. Mrs.
Belle B. (Lyons) McGee was, until her marriage, one of the
most successful teachers in Walker Baptist Institute; Mrs.
Anna (Mack) Morris and Mrs. Anna (Oliver) Shefton are
dressmakers of Augusta. Miss Anna Tate has held for a
112
WALKER
BAPTIST INSTITUTE, SHOWING THE OLD BUILDING.
number of years a prominent position in the public schools
of Richmond County.
The class of 1896 were young ladies, numbering six in
all, four of whom are married and conducting model homes.
They are Mrs. Katie (Hibler) Brisbaney Mrs. Genie (Myers)
Collins, Mrs. Gertrude (Young) Johnson,, and Mrs. Sarah
(Reese) Bennett. Miss Clara Bowman is a dressmaker of
standing.
The class of six young ladies who finished in 1897 have
also made their mark. One of them, Miss Eugenia Whit-
more, taught in Walker Baptist Institute for a term of years
and then married. She lived but a short while after her
marriage. Mrs. Lucy (Davis) Chinn and Miss Rosa Lucas
are dressmakers. Mrs. Ella (Mims) Johnson is in New
York City, and Miss Eula B. Whitmore is on the faculty of
Jerrual Academy of Athens, Ga. Mrs. Janie Smith is a mem¬
ber of the faculty of the Walker Baptist Institute.
The largest class ever sent out in the history of the
school was in 1898. James T. Germany (deceased) was a
valuable member of the faculty of Atlanta Baptist College at
the time of his death. Mrs. Louie (Davis) Shivery was until
her marriage a member of the faculty of the Walker Baptist
Institute. Mr. John Morflet is in the government service.
Mrs. Georgia (Dwelle) Howell is a physician living in At¬
lanta. Prof. R. M. Patterson is a pharmacist, who took his
course in pharmacy at the Temple College of Pharmacy in
Philadelphia, Pa. Prof. O. J. Hutchingson is foreman on
the Charleston Messenger of Charleston, S. C. Miss Cecelia
Bowman is dressmaking. Rev. S. J. Williams is a promi¬
nent pastor of four good churches, and Miss Carrie Collier
is a teacher in the rural district.
There are ten young ladies and two young men in the
class of 1899. Miss Missouri Blair is a stenographer of abil¬
ity; Mrs. Lillie (Williams) Dunn, Mrs. Elizabeth (Norman)
Roberson, Mrs. Alice (Burns) Barnes and Mrs. Cora (Wat-
kins) Ferry are housekeeping. Mr. A. C. Carter is running
a business of his own, and Miss Julia Evans, one of the very
113
brightest of the class and who for a long time was book-
keep of one of the largest insurance companies, passed away
not long since.
We have no graduates for 1900, but in 1901 we have Miss
Claudia Whitmore, who is now teaching in the Mauge Street
School of Augusta; Mr. W. S. Hornsby, general manager of
one of our largest negro insurance companies, and Rev. S.
C. Walker, B. D., whb took the divinity course at the At¬
lanta Baptist College, and is one of the leading pastors of
Walker Baptist Association, and Business Manager of Wal¬
ker Baptist Institute.
For 1902 we have Profs. H. E. Dean, A. B., of the faculty
of Jerrual Academy of Athens, Ga.; Miss Mamie, Dugas, our
dressmaker; Miss Marietta James, primary teacher of Wal¬
ker Baptist Institute, and Miss Lula Matthews, bookkeeper
of one of our large insurance companies.
Class 1903 must, according to superstition, be the un¬
lucky number, for they were thirteen in all. But let us see.
Miss Octavia D'Antignac, Henrietta Evans„ Hattie Waiters
are teachers doing well. Miss M. Magdeline Harrison, of
Hephzibah, has passed away. Mr. J. G. Kiles is studying
medicine at the Meharry College. Miss Lillie Tilman is a
nurse, having completed her training at Hampton Institute.
The rest of the members of the class are married. They are
Mesdames Viola (Johnson) Evans, F. Alberta (Walker)
Evans, Katie B. (Vincient) Lamar, Cora (Walker) Moss
and Lula (Johnson) Dent, deceased.
The graduating class of 1904 was ■ small, consisting of
only four members: Misses Eva Philmon (deceased), Carjie
Rice, Lucy Scott and Rev. James A. Young. All of these
have followed teaching, and Rev. Young is a pastor at Eaton-
ton and Sparta, Ga.
In the class of 1905 were Misses Maggie Butler, Ellen
Raspbury, Inez L. Johnson and Mr. Arthur Curtwright. Of
these, Miss Butler is a dressmaker, Miss Raspbury is matron
at Snow Hill Institute, Ala., Miss Johnson is a member of
the faculty of Walker Baptist Institute, and Prof. Curtwright,
114
having finished the college course at Atlanta Baptist College,
has just been elected to the faculty of the same school.
The class of I906 numbered six, and they were as fol¬
lows : Gilbert Stocks, Misses Mattie Gilbert, Clara Hampton,
Daisie Rouse, and one gone to rest. All of these are teach¬
ers in some line except Miss Rouse, who is a bookkeeper.
For 1907 we have Misses Ora Osborne, Hattie White¬
head, Hattie Shank and Mr. John Young. Misses Osborne
and Shank are teachers; Mr. Young is taking a higher course
and Miss Whitehead is with parents giving her time to the
study of music.
In the class of 1908 we have Misses Rosa E. Brown, Ma-
linda Freeman, Wilhelmena McNeal, Mr. Virgil Vin-
cient and Leslie Freeman. All three of the ladies are teach¬
ing and the young men are in business.
For 1909 we have Misses Mattie B. Wiley,, Annie M.
Young, Azaline Matthews, Eldora Tolbert, Carrie White¬
head, Janie Walker and Messrs. W. J. Watts and James
Evans. These young people are just out of school and are
making preparation to enter schools of higher learning.
In all Walker Baptist Institute has sent forth 125 grad¬
uates, of whom the school may well be proud. They are
here and there doing good. In this report of the work of
the graduates we have said nothing of the fact that a large
number of them took higher courses at different colleges in
this and other states. They have made the city and country
better, and have done much for Walker Baptist Institute.
"5
CHAPTER 18—SECTION 4.
THE WOMAN'S MISSIONARY AND EDUCATIONAL
CONVENTION AUXILIARY TO WALKER BAP¬
TIST ASSOCIATION.
This convention was organized in 1907 at the Mace¬
donia Baptist Church, Augusta, Ga., in July of the year
named. The idea of organizing the women of the Associa¬
tion into a separate body to do the same work outlined for
the parent body, was not entirely original with Rev. J. W.
Whitehead,, who called this meeting, for the record show
that some years before that time the idea had been advanced
by others interested in the development of the women
workers of the body. The Walker Sunday School Conven¬
tion, known for years as the Evesville. Sunday School Con¬
vention, furnished a broad and interesting field for the young,
but Rev. Whitehead saw the necessity of bringing together
that large peicentage of women of mature years who long since
had ceased to affiliate with the Sunday School workers. A
body of women organized and equipped for usefulness, would
be expected to bring things to pass, for woman's influence
in things religious is proving to be one of the wonders of
the world, especially to those who still believe that women
ought to keep silent in the churches.
When these women assembled to organize this conven¬
tion, many of the brethren felt that three separate and dis¬
tinct bodies, all of the same family and operating in the same
territory, would be a useless burden on the people, and,
therefore, did not give to t'he movement any great concern.
Bi^t when in less than three months they came up to the
annual meeting of the Association with more than $200.00
to help in the educational work of the body, the door of every
heart stood ajar to welcome the heroines of a three months'
struggle.
For years stalwart men had been coming up to the an¬
nual meetings of the Association reporting the money sent
116
up from churches with nothing to specially indicate what
proportion of that money was raised by the untiring efforts
of hundreds of women unknown to all except those among
whom they labored. The organization of the Woman's Con¬
vention has already brought about a decided change.
At the last annual meeting of t'he Association and" Wo¬
man's Convention the sisters laid on the table as a result of
their effort along educational lines the neat sum of $400.70,
an amount never equaled by the Walker Baptist Sunday
School 'Convention since its organization about twenty-five
years ago.
Nothing now can dampen the ardor felt as the result of
such a remarkable beginning. The annual meetings of these
three bodies so harmoniously arranged, keep the educational
interest of the Association always prominently before the
people.
The officers of the WOman's Convention at this writ¬
ing are as follows: President, Mrs. Elizabeth W. Berrien, Mil-
len, Ga.; Vice-President for Richmond County, Mrs. E. J.
Whitehead, Augusta; Burke County, Mattie B. King, Way¬
nesboro; Jefferson County, Miss N. A. Flagg; Jenkins
County, Mrs. Laura E. Simpkins; Emanuel County, A.- L.
Whitely; McDuffie County, Nancy Huff; Columbia County,
A. Beasley; Secretary, Mrs. Mattie B. W!ilson, Augusta; As¬
sistant Secretary, Mrs. A. A. Barnes, Augusta; Correspond¬
ing Secretary, Miss Emma A. King.
The fact that the Convention meet with the Association
and turns over all money at its close,, a treasurer is unneces¬
sary.
The members of the Executive Board is as follows: Sis¬
ters Rosa Elliott, Chairman, Augusta; Lizzie Bowdry, Au¬
gusta; Carrie E. Williams, Augusta; W. W. Jones, Augusta;
Georgia Taylor, Augusta; Nancy Huff, Augusta; E. J.
Whitehead, Augusta; 'Mary A. Irvine, Augusta; Emma Reed,
Augusta; Olivia Warren, Augusta; Carrie Harrison, Au¬
gusta; Victoria Stephens, Augusta; Mattie B. Wilson, Au¬
gusta; Alice A. Barnes, Augusta; Emma V. Evans, Au-
117
gusta; J. W. Whitehead, Augusta; Eliza Warren, Waynes¬
boro; Carrie Tilley, Waynesboro; Cherry Burke, Waynes¬
boro; Mattie B. King, Waynesboro; G. S, Kilpatrick, Heph-
zib'ah; N. A. Flagg,, Avery; Anna Hodges, Adrian ;■ Frances
Douse, Millen; Laura E. Simpkins, Millen; E. W. Berrien,
Millen; Nora Gordan, Avera; Clara Henley, Green's Cut;
Mary A. Jones.
These constitute a band of workers that would render
faithful service to any organization charged with the duty
of uplifting fallen humanity.
We give below the various clubs and their officers rep¬
resented at the last annual meeting:
Glut*. President. Secretary. Postoffice.
Salters Grov© M. Beal s. Tate Bartow
First Baptist Janie B. Hobbs ... Elizabeth StapletoiSipread'
Jones Grove A. A. Beasley S. !D. Cooiper Dearing
Tabernacle- M. Pennet R. E. Elliott Augusta
McCoy J. A. Lovett Carrie Cox Perkins
Bland Hill A. Moore Millen
Beech Branch J. M. Utley A. L. Utly S'ardis
Mt. Sinai C. |Peats B. (Lawrence Augusta
Antioch E. J. Whitehead . Saibra Ketch Augusta
Gordon Hill iL. C. Henly G. Henly Green's Cut
Forts Grove J. Leaks R. Harris Summer Town ...
First McCoy M. Johnson E. Wright Perkins
Palmers Grove ... H. Feeling N. ISwint Hephzibah
Gordon Grove ....A,. Johnson N. Brown Louisville
Clear Spring L. R. Crawford .. Lillie Knight Midville
Mt. Moriah A:lice Barnes A. Johnson Augusta
Tremont Temple . Nora Wright Augusta
Grays Grove E. Hickson M. Hickson Waynesboro
First Baptist L. E. iSimpkins .. Eva Berry Millen
White Grove L. Wlh'itely E. 'Bush Adrain
Get'hsemane M. Jones M. Roberson Augusta
San H'tll C. E. Farmer — D. Jenkins Millen
Pine Hill M. IL. Jordan Louisville
Needful Edna Bynes R. G. iMurphey ... Millen
Harts Grove ..... Anna Rivers .... E. Hart Spread
Thankful L. Lipsey N. King Waynesboro
MciEImurry N. C„ Cox A. J. Jones Green's Cut
First Baptisit Emma Wiggs .... M. E. Grant Wladley
First Baptist S. Modower B. Ranson Stillmore
William Grove ,... E. C. William® .. J. L. Tolbert Waynesboro
Burns Grove C. B. Henderson . Scarboro
Rock Hill M. Hopkins R. Howard Stanly
New Light A. (Bullaird V. George Woodcliffe
Spring Hill Hattie Self Adeline Smith ... Blythe
Eden Maria Bostic Lula E. Backey .. Louisville
Rocky Ford
118
There will scarcely be any interest in these names now.
Most of them are people in the midst of youth, but in after
years when death shall have claimed many of them and .made
the ranks exceedingly thin, then a new recruit will cherish
the names of those who are now just beginning what is
destined to be one of the greatest movements ever started
among women in any age.
The life of this child of Walker Baptist Association is
just beginning. What it is to accomplish is all concealed
in the bosom of future years. No one doubts that other gen¬
erations will so far surpass the record of today that what we
consider now as marvelous will fade into insignificance be¬
fore those who doubtlessly will enjoy a full share of the bet¬
ter things in store for other times.
IT9
CHAPTER 19.
THE WALKER BAPTIST SUNDAY SCHOOL
CONVENTION.
The Walker Sunday School Convention was organized
at the Evesville School House in Burke County, near where
Keysville Baptist Church now stands. This was in Novem¬
ber, 1881. The primary object of this Convention was to fur¬
nish literature for poor Sunday Schools in the bounds of the
Walker Baptist Association. Those who took part in the or¬
ganization were: Revs. Alfred Young, T. J. Hornsby, A. L.
D'Antignac and Brothers J. B.' Ealy, Hampton Dukes, D.
T. Thomas, A. S. Gibbons, H. F. Walker, J. J. Nelson and
Prof. S. Y. Pope.
These brethren represented the following churches and
Sunday Schools: iWiays Grove, Franklin Covenant, Spring
Hill, Smith Grove and St. Clair. It was first known as the
Evesville Sunday School Convention, and for several years
worked under that name. In later years her relation to Wal¬
ker Association brought to her a new and rightful name,
that of Walker Baptist Sunday School Convention.
Rev. Alfred Young, the first President, recommneded
that the work of the Convention be so broadened as to take
in the educational interest of the Association. Rev. T. J.
Hornsby, the second President, took the same view, and
urged the Convention to take suitable steps to aid the parent
body to put Walker High School on a good running basis.
These recommendations met the hearty approval of those
who were chiefly interested in the Sunday School.
The idea of furnishing literature for Sunday Schools
was the one uppermost in the minds of the Sunday School
workers until the leaders decided that a larger field of use¬
fulness was opened for the Sunday School workers, and
should be occupied.
Rev. Alfred Young served one year, but his hand was
always seen in her management until he was called from
120
the labors of this life to a reward beyond the grave. Rev.
T. J. Hornsby served about two years. Both of the first
presidents were assisted by Prof. S. Y. Pope as vice-presi¬
dent, which made him the logical man to succeed to the presi¬
dency when Rev. Hornsby resigned at Carswell Grove, after
two years of progress such as was not only enjoyed by the
young men, but also admired by the fathers who were not
altogether in hearty accord with a separate and distinct Sun¬
day School body doing work in the same territory of the As¬
sociation.
When Prof. S. Y. Pope was elected President, Brother
W. A. McCloud was elected Vice-President. Brother Pope
held his office until the close of his days on earth. The Con¬
vention has never had a President who devoted more time
and strength to the development of the Sunday School in¬
terest in the bounds of the Association. His position as Prin¬
cipal of Walker High School at Waynesboro gave him added
strength and influence over the youths of our churches, and
even when his life was rapidly ebbing away he was ever
astir among the workers giving advice and encouragement.
The fathers of the Association made a long and per¬
sistent fight on the Convention, and in an effort to reconcile
them to the work of the young people as it was being done
in a separate organization, Prof. Pope read the constitution
of the Convention to the Association at her annual meeting
held at Smith Grove in 1887, and this one act on the part
of the President served to allay the feeling against the Con¬
vention. Some of the opponents of the Convention had open¬
ly charged that the motive behind the movement to operate
a separate body was a scheme to push the personal interest
of the promoters and leaders. The injustice of these charges
was not fully, apparent until the minutes and work of the
Convention was reported to the Association several years in
detail. Having made it clear that his only object was to help
better the condition of humanity and to shape the lives of the
young for higher usefulness, the opposition ceased and from
that time forward the Association was ever found smiling
121
over the accomplishments of the Sunday School Convention.
Just in the prime of life, death claimed Prof. Pope, and' Rev.
Wj. A. McCloud, of Wadley, was elected to succeed1 him.
This was in 1894, and Brother McCloud has been the Presi¬
dent ever since.
The meeting of the two bodies at Smith Grove in 1887,
when the Association consumed so much of the time that an
interesting meeting of the Convention was impossible, Presi¬
dent Pope protested and the Sunday School Convention was
given the privilege of holding their next annual meeting at
San Clair Baptist Church, near Wadley, Ga., where in 1888,
with Prof. S. Y. Pope as President, twenty-five schools re¬
ported, and $67.40 was raised.
That the reader might have some idea of the early work¬
ers we give the full list of officers as follows: President,
Prof. S. Y. Pope; Vice-President, Rev. H. C. Dickerson, M'il-
len, Ga.; Secretary, Rev. A. L. D'Antignac; Treasurer, W.
B. Boston.
The Executive Board of 1887 was composed of the fol¬
lowing: S. Y. Pope, G. J. Campbell, T. M. Dent, A. L. D'An¬
tignac, A. S. Wright, W. A. McCloud, T. J. Hornsby, C. T.
King, A. B. Brown, E. Tweedy, H. L. Oliver, A. H. Hand-
kerson, J. H. Handkerson, J. S. Kelsey, D. L. Thomas, J. J.
Davis, H. C. Dickerson, C. L. Lawrence, C. E. Clark, E. Bur¬
ton, J. T. Young, R. L. Jackson, S. A. McNeal and T. H.
Brown.
SUNDAY SCHOOLS OF THE CONVENTION, 1888.
The Sunday Schools of the Convention, as shown by
the Minutes of 1888, were as follows: Carswell Grove, Smith
Grove, Pierce Grove, San Clair, Shavers Creek, Needful,
Friendship, Macedonia, Emanuel County; Flat Rock, Eden^
Harts Grove, Ways Grove, Pine Hill, Jefferson County; Forts
Grove, Brinson Hill, Union Grove, Salters Grove, Springfield,
Jefferson; Curby Grove, St. Clair, Magnolia, San Hill, First
Baptist, Millen, Dalton and Spring Hill. As these years re¬
cede we call up the workers and see how many of them have
122
fallen by the way, and how others whose names appear
among the humble superintendent of the Sunday Schools,
have reached a degree' of prominence in the galaxy of emi¬
nent divines.
1898.
As we skip over a period of ten years, which is a long
time compared with the brevity of the lives of the present
generation, we find the personnel and methods of the Con¬
vention very much changed. In 1898, at Harts Grove Bap¬
tist Church, Spread, Ga., the officers are as follows: Presi¬
dent, W. A. McCloud, Wadley, Ga.; First Vice-President, J.
H. Fuller, Waynesboro; Second Vice-President, Deacon S.
H. Dickerson; Third Vice-President, Mrs. S. A. McKinnie,
Wadley, Ga.; General Superintendent, S. C. Walker, Au¬
gusta; Secretary, Rev. A. L. D'Antignac, Noah; and Execu¬
tive Board composed of more than twenty-five workers.
Thirty-eight Sunday Schools were represented and $89.23
was raised during the meeting.
WALKER SUNDAY SCHOOL CONVENTION.
Under Brother iMcCloud's administration the Conven¬
tion has grown to a body of not only considerable size, but
of great importance as well. Brother McCloud was elected
at Sprinfield Church, Jefferson County, and at the same time
Rev. J. T. Young was elected Vice-President and Rev. S. C.
Walker, General Superintendent. There was a number of
agents appointed to work up the field as follows: Brothers
S. H. Dickerson, G. H. Fuller, W. B. Boston, B. F. Allen, A.
C. Carter, F. J. Jackson, J T. Raiford, A. S. 'Gibbons and
Revs. C. L. Lawrence and C. T. King.
Under later appointments we have the following: A. S.
Gibbons, R. H. Cody, G. W. Johnson, R. P. demons, R. E.
T. Walker and many volunteers. Every part of the field
was covered during the year; some of the workers meeting
with great success and others failing and discouraged were
found to have "hid the Lord's money."
123
As the educational work of Walker Association has been
the life of it, even so the interest of the Sunday Schools in
that work has been the life of the Convention. No two sep¬
arate and distinct organizations could work more harmoni¬
ously together than do the W'alker Baptist Association and
the Walker Baptist Sunday School Convention.
Brother MoCloud setms to hold a monopoly on the
President's chair, and, in fact, one of the things that has
given the Convention such remarkable success is the fact
that the brethren is in it for work and not for office. For
these eighteen years our President has stood like a giant
defending the Sunday Schools, and leading them from one
great effort to another, and year by year the following in¬
crease until it is almost as difficult to secure a suitable place
for the meeting of the Sunday School workers as it is to find
a church sufficiently strong" to entertain the annual meetings
of the Association. And then, too, the schools are now send¬
ing up annually for the work larger donations than the
churches of the Association sent up fifteen years ago. All
along Brother McCloud has been engaged in pastoral work,
but there has been nothing wanting in him as a great leader
in the work of the Sunday School. In manners he is plain
and positive; in effort he is untiring; in zeal he is unsur¬
passed, and in sincere appreciation of the honor he holds, and
is ever alert to prove_ to all concerned that it is a cause that
lies very close to his heart. For a long time, indeed, he has
not allowed the banner to trail in the dust. In giving a de¬
scription of any organization it is almost impossible to avoid
giving most of the honor to the head, but it is nevertheless
true that any degree of success achieved must also be credited
to the associates as well as him who is placed at the head.
In this connection we can but think of the Vice-Presi¬
dents who loyally assisted the President in making the Wal¬
ker Sunday School Convention greater than any organization
of its kind in the state. We take no risk when we say greater,
for with these workers the day of small things has passed.
For the last few years the Convention and its officers feel
124
greatly aggrieved when they cannot report and turn over to
the Association more than $300.00.
The Vice-Presidents who have served from time to time
since the organization are as follows: Revs. J. T. Young, S.
H. Dickerson, G. H. Fuller, R. J. Johnson, G. S. Kilpatrick,
R. W. Walker, W. A. Beasley, J. W. Weaver, H. C. Lane,
C. T. King, Sisters S. A. Harmon, C. T. Heggs, Emma Stokes,
B. B. Lyons and Nora A. Flagg.
The General Superintendents, Revs. J. W. Whitehead,
S. C. Walker, M. T. J. Jones and Brother G. H. Fuller, have
made efficient officers, and no, one will deny them a large
share of the honor that must finally crown the labors of the
true and tried Sunday School workers.
THE EXECUTIVE BOARD.
The Executive Board of the Convention, while not
charged with any great responsibility as officers, they are
separate workers throughout the bounds of the Walker Bap¬
tist Association. They are as follows: Revs. R. J. Johnson,
Chairman; A. L. D'Antignac, Secretary; W. A. McCloud,
G. S. Kilpatrick, R. W. Walker, S. C. Walker, C. T. King, W.
S. Jordan, H. F. Grant, S P. Campbell, J. M. Sapp, G. W.
Johnson, C. L. Lawrence, J. H. Lane, J. L. Lowry, A. L.
Kelsey, W. G. Farmer, Brothers J. T. Raiford, R. L. Jack¬
son, G. H. Fuller, S. H. Dickerson, A. S. Glover, F. J. Jack¬
son, A. S. Gibbons, W. B. Boston, Jr., Y. W. White and P.
Allen.
The Agents and Missionaries of the Convention since
the organization has been as follows: S. H. Dickerson, G. H.
Fuller, W. B. Boston, Jr., B. F. Allen, A. C. Carter, F. J.
Jackson, J. T. Raiford, A. S. Gibbons, C. L. Lawrence, C.
T. King, A. S. Glover, W. J. Jackson, R. H. Cody, G. W.
Johnson, R. P. Clemons, R. E. T. Walker, W. F. Brown,
H. F. Grant, R. L. Jackson, A. D. Hankinson, R. Trobridge,
E, H. Heard, James Burnes, Robert Aldred, W. S. Dicker-
son, W. G. Farmer, W. Brazel, E. D. Handkinson, G. W.
Gwin, J. M. Morse, W. M. Gibbons, N. R. Williams, E. S.
125
Jones, Obe Holy, D. D. Dudley, W. W. Jones, SM. J. Jones,
W. M. Gilliard, R. W. Marshall, George Green, Robert
Shewmake, A. F. Kelsey, E. C. Williams, B. L. Lewis, C.
J. Johnson, B. W. Shivers, I. J. Yancy, H. Brown, A. W.
Bennett, G. S. Kilpatrick, E. H. Handkerson, B. J. Heath,
F. P. Pitts, M. H. Harden, R. D. Dickerson, J. R. Turner, G.
D. Smith, R. W. Walker, J. M. Parker, S. X. Floyd, T. J.
Jones, W. M. Bostic, Y. W. White, J. A. Young, L. E. White,
A.. W. Kelsey, Walter McClenton, C. J. Jones, J. T. Lewis,
J. H. West, T. S. Douse, C. H. Wilson, Martin Campbell, J.
L. Lowry, P. Allen, P. W. Jones, W. M. Thomas, Jonas
Gray, M. P. Boyd, T. H. Dickerson, H. C. Crawford, E. S.
Golden, Mrs. Laura Simpkins, G. W. Givens, G. W. Rober-
son, R. L. Allen, S. C. Hornsby, C. Wright, R. H. Gray, A.
E. Irvine, N. Thomas, J. S. Smith, W. H. Mobley, J. T. Rai-
iord, S. H. Hernngton, Katy Douse, J. G. Jones, N. H. Jones,
B. J. Smith, Mrs. Hattie Sills, Irene Sapp, Mrs. Shug Col-
man. Pearl Bussy, S. W. L. Jones, Nora A. Flagg, Georgia
Roberson, L. S. Smith, Lillie Campfield, Brad'd'y Key, L. R
Simpkins, L. C. Sapp, Maggie Sills, Maggie Shingleton, An¬
nie M. Ross, E. J. Lewis, J. D. Lawrence, Georgia Well,
Emma Wiggs, L. D. D'Antignac, A. T. Wilson, Mattie A.
Wilson, J. H. Lane, H. T. Taylor, W. A. Beasley, A. W. Red¬
man, C. E. Clark, E. J. Glover, Elizabeth Wright, and many
others who acted under these agents from time to time as
sub-agents.
r^6
LIVING LEADERS.
SECTION 5—CHAPTER 20.
REV. GEORGE R. PINKSTON.
The subject of this sketch was born in Hancock County,
near Sparta, Ga., A. D., 18755 and spent the first twenty
years of his life on the farm. In 1896 he moved to Augusta,
and took up residence on the Sand Hill, where he came
under the immediate influence of the Elim Baptist Church.
He was converted and baptized into the fellowship of the
above named church, June 10th, 1896, by Rev. W. G. John¬
son, and was. licensed to preach from' the same church.
Brother Pinkston entered Walker Baptist Institute as soon
as he decided to enter upon the work of the ministry, and
there as a student, coming in constant contact with those
ministers who were especially interested in the education of
aspiring young men, an opportunity to improve his gifts al¬
ways came without the asking.
In 1900 he was called to his first church, Piny Grove,
Gibson, Ga., while he was yet a licensed preacher. He was
immediately ordained for that charge by Rev. S. C. Walker,
and went forth to lead that little trusting band, who saw in
him the evidences of his call to leadership. He was next
called to Galilee Church, near Sparta, Ga., the people from
whom he had drifted in his search for knowledge, and about
the same time received' a call to the Antioch Church, near
Crawfordville. These rapid calls soon engaged his full time-,
and he was forced to give up his studies at Walker Baptist
Institute, and devote his time to the development of his
churches.
He was married to Miss Malvinia Dixson, a Spelman
girl, of Culverton, Ga., in 1904, and she has been a wonder¬
ful help to him as an ideal minister's w;ife. In July, 1905,
he was called to the pastorate of Fulton Church, Macon, and
is holding the confidence of the entire membership.
127
While the promotions of Brother Pinkston has been
rapid and pleasing, he appreciates the importance of learn^
ing as well as religion in qualifying one for the best service,
and so he has taken a course in the Ballard School of Ma¬
con, and at this writing is a student in the Divinity School
in Atlanta Baptist College.
At present he is the honored pastor of Fulton Church,
Macon; Hickory Grove, Culverton, and a member of the Ex¬
ecutive Board of the General State Baptist Convention of
Georgia. Naturally meek and unassuming, with a heart
full of zeal for the cause of the Lord, a character unblem¬
ished, he has taken rank with those men of state-wide and
national reputation with whom merit is an essential quality.
SAMUEL C. HORNSBY, DEACON.
The subject of this sketch'deserves a place among those
whose names appear in this connection, not because he has
sought it, but because his life has been so remarkable con¬
sidering his limited learning and opportunities. He was born
near Hephzibah, Richmond County, Feb. 13th, 1846. Under
the influence of Rev. Peter Walker, he was converted and
baptized into the fellowship of Franklin Covenant Church
on the first Sunday in January, 1865, by Rev. Joseph Wal¬
ker. Having moved to Burke County, near Keysville, he
drew his letter from Covenant Church and united with Spring
Hill Church. He and his brother, T. J. Hornsby, starting up
a Sunday School immediately. In March, 1877, his brother
entered upon the work of the ministry, and the Sunday School
was left to his care. For more than thirty years he has been
the leading spirit in the Sunday School, in spite of his ad¬
vancing age and the heaviness of other responsibilities rest¬
ing upon his shoulders. He was elected clerk of his church
1877, and has served continuously ever since, having missed
Conference only twice during this time. This almost match¬
less record speaks volumns. He was chosen and ordained a
deacon of Spring Hill Church, July 15th, 1883, by the follow¬
ing council: Revs. A. L. D'Antignac, Thomas Green and T.
J. Hornsby.
128
WALKER BAPTIST INSTITUTE, SHOWING PART OF THE
NEW FOUR STORY BRICK BUILDING.
On October 4th, 1870, he was united in marriage to Miss
Susie B. Jones, at Hephzibah, by Rev. Peter Walker, the
same man who led him to Christ. A large and upright set
of children is one of the results of this union, most of them were
girls, whose lives reflected the character of an ancestry whose
record will stand the test of time. Brother Hornsby is a mem¬
ber of the Executive Board of the Walker Baptist Associa¬
tion, and for loyalty to the cause of education he is hard to
surpass. In his own community his judgment is respected
and his zeal admired by all who come in contact with him,
through the church, the school, and anything else that con¬
cerns the well-being of his race.
REV. MARTIN T. J. JONES.
Rev. Jones is still a young man. He was born near St.
Clair, Ga., Burke County, Nov. nth, 1869, and lived in that
county with his parents, Jordan and Fannie Jones, until he
reached young manhood. He acquired an elementary edu¬
cation through the public schools of Burke County, and then
went to the Hains School at Augusta, where he stood well
with teachers as well as the student body. In June, 1892, he
was baptized into the fellowship of Adam Grove Church,
iG'racewood, by Rev. C. J. Noble. Brother Jones served his
church as deacon and clerk for seven years, until in 1900 he
entered the ministry. He was ordained to the ministry in 1902.
He is at present pastor of Pierce Grove Church, near
Louisville, and the First Baptist Church, Wadley. In 1894 he
started out as a public school teacher, rendering such satis¬
factory services to the Burke County Board of Education
until he was elected over much competition to the principal-
ship of the Waynesboro City School. He still holds this lat-
,ter position, and is also General Superintendent of the Wal¬
ker Sunday School Convention and Trustee of Walker Baptist
Institute. To stop here is to leave out many important
things in connection with the history of this young mar's
life. He is progressive, friendly and an ardent soul winner
as well as educator of no little ability.
129
DR. WILLIAM G. JOHNSON, MACON, GA.
Rev. William Gilbert Johnson was born June 4th, 1861,
near Hephzibah, Ga. His parents were Gilbert and Frances
Johnson. His father was a deacon of Franklin Covenant
Church, and his mother was one of the.devout women of that
church, her father, Frank Walker, being the founder of the
church, as may be seen from the name it bears. William G.
was converted when about nine years of age and baptized into
the fellowship of the Franklin Covenant Church by his uncle,
Rev. Nathan Wialker. At that time only a few of the mem¬
bers could read, and young Gilbert, who had made some
progress along educational lines, was made to read hymns
for the older ones when they met in their regular weekly
plantation prayer meetings. Thus it will be seen that an
early opportunity came to him to develop strong Christian
habits.
He was a teacher in the Sunday School at the age of
twelve, and at fourteen he was sent as a messenger to the
Walker Baptist Association. At that meeting he was hon¬
ored and trusted with some of the important work of the
body, many of the brethren taking notice of the evidences of
the great future that was before him..
He received his literary training from the public schools
of Richmond County, the Augusta Institute (now the Atlanta
Baptist College), the Haven Normal School at Waynesboro,
or at Payne College, Augusta. He took private lessons in
Greek and Hebrew from Dr. O. C. Pope at Augusta.
He began his public life as a teacher, and followed that
profession for nine y^ars. He was licensed to preach in 1880,
under the administration of Dr. C. T. Walker, and ordained
by Rev. T. J. Hornsby, his life-long friend, on the first Sun¬
day in December, 1881, and was soon afterwards called to
the pastorate of the Ziorv Baptist Church, Screven County. He
was next c&i. ed to the pastorate of the Murphy Ebenezer
Baptist Church, Burke County, and here he did a commend¬
able work. Thankful Baptist Church, Waynesboro, was the
next to seek the services of this young man who was rising
130
so rapidly among the leaders of the Association. When
Brother Johnson took ch?rgt of the last named church there
was an average oi about fifteen persons at the regular ser¬
vices. He soon built up a large and influential membership,
and erected a house of worship that stood for years as a
monument to the religion and intelligence of the members.
These people he served for fifteen years, and even after a
larger field secured him, this church was about the last to
give up the fight to hold him bound to the work that lay
along and within the territory of Walker Association.
During the same period of his life he was serving Pal-
'mer Grove Church, near Green's Cut, and Franklin Covenant
Church, near Hephzibah, Ga. At Soth of these places he
made many improvements, and hundreds for miles away
flocked to her him monthly.
HIS FIRST CHARGE.
Elim Baptist Church on the Sand Hill, a part of the City
of Augusta, was the next church that called him. This was
in 1887, andl was rrot only a small field, but also one that was
fraught with many difficulties on account of the opposition
to the existence of this church brought by the church from
which they had come, and all of its friends and sympathizers;
and they were not few. The little band had come out under
a leader that was being opposed by the mother church, and
Brother Johnson was called to succeed him, and impart new
life to a band that for a long season had experienced many
difficulties. It was here that the best judgment and zeal of
this young man was brought into play. When he left the
church, ten years later, it was a recognized power among the
churches of the city, owning property worth several thousand
dollars. Eden Baptist Church, Louisville, Ga., called him, and
though he declined to serve then as permanent pastor, he was
nevertheless forced to seive and supply for them for about
three years.
131
A CHANGE TO MACON.
In December, 1896, he was called to the pastorate of the
First Baptist Church, Macon, Ga. Here he found everything
in chaos. A long church war had resulted in a rupture that
had torn the congregation asunder. A house of worship,
half complete, that had stood so long in this condition that a
new beginning was almost necessary, a once brave and con¬
fident people bewildered over the strength of a powerful
rival, and a debt that grew in magnitude as one stood and
considered the uncertainty of human enthusiasm was the sum
of the difficulties that greeted the new leader as he appeared
on the scene.
Unskilled in the tactics of religious warfare, on account
of the peaceableness of his administration in other fields, it was
freely predicted that at the close of his administration, which
at best could last but a few months, the whole story of his
career could be told in the one word, failure. Entering upon
the duties of his office, he paused and then picked up the scat-
tered weapons that lay around, giving at the same time I he
rallying cry that gathered about him one of the most per¬
sistent and determined forces that ever defended a noble
cause. The first year the collections amounted to more than
$10,000; but most of this money had to be paid on debts of
long standing. The house was finally finished at a cost of
about $60,000. He had baptized about 1,500 happy souls.
He has held many positions of honor and trust, prominent
among them are the following: Director of the first Negro
Fair held for Richmond County and the City of Augusla.
He was one of the stockholders of the Weekly Sentinel, a
paper published at Augusta for a number of years. He was
one of the vice-presidents of the Georgia Agricultural and Fair
Association. He was for a term of years Assistant Sec.r
retary of Missionary Baptist Convention of Georgia. He
served the Middle Georgia Association for a number of years
as its Treasurer. He is at present pastor of the First Bap¬
tist Church, Macon, Ga., secretary of the Walker Baptist As¬
sociation, Chairman of the Executive Board of Walker Bap-
132
tist Institute, President ot the General State Baptist Conven¬
tion, and in this connection he had not only interested the
entire ministry in state work, but founded the great Reform¬
atory at Macon for wayward boys and girls, and has been
its chief director. As a financier, with uncommon executive
ability, his record speaks volumes.
For years all the churches of the Walker Baptist Associa¬
tion were governed by his plans for raising money for the
support of Walker Baptist Institute. For years he held two
lots adjoining the campus of the school, waiting the Asso¬
ciation's opportunity to purchase it. He finally let the school
have it far below the original cost, sacrificing many dollars
to assist in a work that the fathers had begun.
As Vice-President of the National Baptist Convention of
the United States, and President of the General State Baptist
Convention of Georgia, he is placed at the head -of many
thousand Baptists, representing about every degree of learn¬
ing known to American civilization.
In establishing the State Reformatory, under the auspices
of the General State Convention, he rescued from the com¬
mon prisons, and maybe from the gallows, an army of boys
and girls who are already living worthy lives.
■Dr. Johnson, while never posing as a revivalist, is one
of the greatest ones Georgia has produced. He has con¬
ducted successful meetings in New York, Philadelphia, Nash¬
ville and Chicago.
As a traveller he has seen some of the globe. He crossed
the ocean and visited London, Paris, Gibraltar, in Spain;
Genoa, Italy; Pisa, Rome, Naples, Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius
in Italy. While on the same tour he visited the Island of
Mileta, where Paul was shipwrecked, and then travelled the
Apian way back to Rome, where he visited the Marmitine
prison, where Paul was incarcerated. The St. Paul Cathedral,
erected on the spot where that apostle was beheadfed,. and St.
Peter's Cathedral, where the apostle by that name was cruci¬
fied. From Venice to Cairo and many other minor places
*33
and then homeward to greet a people whose prayers were con¬
stantly going up for his safety.
c. He was a delegate to the 'World's Congress, which con¬
vened in London, and preached four sermons on the Sabbath
with such telling effect that he has twice been invited -to
return and conduct revival meetings. These congregations
are composed of white people exclusively..
Prominent among the sermons and addresses he has de¬
livered may be mentioned "The Enemies of the Cross,"
preached before the Missionary Baptist Convention of Geor¬
gia ; "Why the Colored (Baptist Should Give the Gospel to
Africa," arjd "The Triumph of the True Religion Over Fake
Religions."
On Monday, after the delivery of this sermon the presi¬
dent of one of the colleges said: "I am a white man, but that
was the best sermon I have heard since I heard Spurgeon
preach twenty-five years ago." The South Carolina Stand¬
ard said': 'Dr. W. G. Johnson, of Macon, Ga., swept the en¬
tire audience in his sermon Sunday morning. It was a great
sermon, good English, good reasoning and full of the Holy
Spirit." Our limited space prevents us from giving a fuller
story. He is a scholar of ever deepening views, living in
a time when there is nothing to limit his research in the realms
of higher religious thought.
Dr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Martha Gra¬
ham, of Hephzibah, Ga., February 28th, 1885, and to that
union twelve children have been born. Of this number, there
were three girls and nine boys. Five of these children died
while quite young. Seven of them survive to cheer them
along life's journey.
134
CHAPTER 21.
REV. A. L. D'ANTIGNAC.
Rev. D'Antignac, the subject of this sketch, was born in
Jefferson County, near Noah, Ga.> October ist, 1857, and
spent his first eleven years on the farm. His parents moved
to Augusta in 1868, and he was put in school under Miss Mary
J. Welch (white), whose influence he still remembers. Short¬
ly after the family moved to Augusta the father died, and for
three years, with the assistance of this weak but willing son,
his mother braved the difficulties of city life.
After just six months in school, he secured a job as a
stand boy to sell vegetables on the streets. But wisdom sug¬
gested that a boy without a father would be better shielded
from temptation on the farm, where the best that is in man
finds opporunity for development. Back to Burke County he
was sent, and put under the care of his uncle- and labored on
the farm until 1873, when he was put in a shop to learn black-
smithing.
He was converted and baptized into the fellowship of
Smith Grove Church, September, 1876, by Rev. Alfred Young.
The same year he entered the Augusta Institute (now Atlanta
Baptist College), under Dr. Joseph Roberts, and was ordained
to the work of the Gospel ministry in 1880 by Rev. T. J.
Hornsby. His stay in the Augusta Institute was not long, fo£
he returned home and took charge of the public school in his
own county district, and taught for the same people in the
same house for a period of twenty-four years, resigning at
its close over the protest of both patrons and trustees. He
has given in all twenty-nine years to public school teaching' as
well as pastoring some of the best churches in the bounds of
Walker Baptist Association, and Noah Ebenezer Association.
The total membership of his churches, viz.: Noah's Ark,.
St. Clair, Poplar Head atid San Clair is 3,333. He is Assistant
Secretary of Walker Baptist Association, Secretary of the
Board, Auditor of the School and Association, Trustee of Noah
135
Ebenezer Association and Secretary of Walker Baptist Sun¬
day School Convention,
Thus we have condensed and put in readable shape a
brief sketch of a life well spent in the cause of the Master, a
man whose sympathy foi his struggling people know no
bounds, and who has fought his way to the front' in spite of
the difficulties encountered all along the way. May others be
helped and inspired by his achievements as they read and
learn the possibilities in the way of any man who has faith
in the reward of persistent effort.
REV. W. G. FARMER, WOODCLIFFE, GA.
Few men start in the ministry late in life and rise to a
position of prominence among his own people. But such is
true of Rev. Gray Farmer, of whom we must write. He was
born at Wilson, N. C., A. D., 1856, and remained there until
1873, when he moved to the State of South Carolina. He
moved again, this time landing in Georgia- where his life just
begins to make impression on the world. He came to Georgia
as a common laborer, following his trade as a turpentine hand.
He was united in holy wedlock with Miss Rosa Chance,
the youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Calvin Chance, June
1st, 1881, when he was just 25 years of age.
He was converted and baptized into the fellowship of the
San Hill Baptist Church, eight miles east of Millen, A. D.,
1888, by Rev. H. C. Dickerson. In 1890 he was ordained a
deacon of that church by Rev. N. Wilkerson. and in this ca¬
pacity he served his church and people faithfully for nine
years.
Feeling called of God to the work of the ministry, he ap¬
plied to his church for license and was granted them after
preaching a trial sermon, December 7, 1899. He began pas-
toring in 1901, though he was not ordained until the second
Sunday in April, 1902, under the ministration of Rev. B.
Berrien.
136
At the organization of the New Light Church, in 1901,
Brother Farmer was chosen pastor, and the following year
he was called to the pastorate of the Rock Hill Church, sev¬
eral miles east of Millen. Forts Grove Church> Summertown,
was the next church to extend him a call, which he accepted
in 1906. He was called to succeed Rev. B. B. Berrien as pas¬
tor of San Hill Church in the fall of 1908, and has already
done a noble work there. As a Christian gentleman, with flex¬
ible disposition, he has won friends everywhere in a radius
of many miles around his own home, and is one of the great
props of the General State Convention. His liberality knows
no bounds. Naturally tender hearted, sympathetic and hum¬
ble, you can approach him in the time of distress and find
always in him a willing helper. We have often heard his
friends say: "Brother Farmer, you are too good." To know
him is to love him. We.had almost forgotten to mention
the fact that he is an excellent preacher, whose life is per¬
haps stronger than the sermons he preaches. As a man he
is rich in those excellent qualities that will make for any man
the most zealous and lasting friends.
REV. JAMES CAMPFIELD, KEYSVILLE> GA.
Rev. Campfield is one of that school of men who was
never at any time a great leader, but who has always been
so closely associated with great leaders that his name is en¬
titled to a place when he would give to the world a true story
of the men and the measures that played such a considerable
part in the making of the Walker Baptist Association. We
did not plan to give a detailed history of his life, but only
to speak of him in a general way. He is economic, hard
working and an experienced farmer who has laid away some¬
thing for a rainy day. He has pastored Doyle Grove, at
Blythe, and Keys Grove at Keysville, he being the first man
to bring Doyle Grove prominently before the people of other
communities. • He believes in education, and I believe he
was the first trustee to have a daughter graduate from Wal-
137
ker Baptist Institute. Brother Campfield is bordering on old
age, but is yet very active, and interested in the uplift of the
race and especially those who are struggling to improve them¬
selves intellectually.
He has been twice married, but at present lives at his
own home- near Keysville, enjoying his declining years as
one who has seen some of life, and is at peace with his con¬
science and the people whom he once served.
REV. GRANVILLE W. HARRISON.
Rev. G. W. Harrison was born in Columbia County, near
Appling, Ga., A. D., 1869. His parents, Rev. Benjamin and
Mahalia Harrison, was among the highly respected and thor¬
oughly upright families of that community. He, as most of
'the men of whom we are to speak, was reared on the farm
of his father and given such education as the county board of
education offered. In 1883, when he was just fourteen years
of age, his parents moved to Augusta- and he began to work
about from place to place, both in Georgia and South Caro¬
line. While away in South Carolina he was converted, but
came back home, went up to Columbia County and united
with Rehoboth Baptist Church-, and was baptized by his
father, Rev. Benjamin Harrison,- on the second Sunday in
October, 1886.
He moved to -Savannah in 1888, and after several months
residence there, took his letter of dismission from his former
church and became one of the founders of the Union Baptist
Church of that city.
He was licensed to preach in 1893; was called to the pas¬
torate of Jerusalem Baptist Church, Savannah' and was or¬
dained to the work of the Gospel ministry May, 1895, by Revs.
J. Thomas and M. W. Gilbert, D. D., with the full approval
of all of those who recognized his peculiar fitness for the ''high
calling." In 1899 he was called to the pastorate of Macedonia
Church, Augusta, and in 1900 to New Holt Church, Harlem,
Ga. He accepted a call to Mt. Zion Church- six miles out
138
from the city of Savannah, in 1901; but the physical strain in
serving several churches so widely separated was too great,
so he soon gave up the work in Savannah altogether. He
was called to the pastorate of Mt. Carmel, Columbia County,
Mt. Zion, Lindoln County, and Green Branch, McDuffie
County, in 1903, to succeed the lamented Rev. E. V. White.
To accept these churches he resigned Macedonia Church at
Augusta. The combined membership of his four churches
is 2-617, and among them are to be found some of the most
law-abiding citizens in the state.
Rev. Harrison is one of the Vice-Presidents of the Gen¬
eral State Baptist Convention of Georgia, President of the
Union, Columbia County Sunday School Convention, mem¬
ber of the Executive Board of the Walker Baptist Institute,
and member of the Board of Directors of the State Reforma¬
tory, owned and controlled by the General State Baptist Con¬
vention. He is now a member of Tabernacle church, Augusta,
and is well known for his powerful gift as a preacher of right¬
eousness. His liberality knows no bounds, and although he
enjoys a large and liberal support, it is his delight to go about
among the less fortunate doing good.
139
CHAPTER 22.
REV. S. J. WILLIAMS.
Rev. Samuel J. Williams, the subject of this sketch, was
born in Richmond Count}'-, near Belair, March 2> 1879. He
is the son of the well known preacher, Rev. Charlie Williams.
His mother, Mrs. Amy Williams, is a woman of extraordinary
qualities, whose positive bearing made her the mistress of a
home in which more than one child learned the lessons of pru¬
dence, and the real and lasting value of an upright Christian
life.
Young Samuel received a common school education in
the rural public schools of Richmond County, and from them
he went to Walker Baptist Institute at Augusta, furnishing
that institution with one of the most brilliant students that
ever graced its class room. With that persistence inherited
from a noble ancestry, and with -a face that was always full
of sunshine- he inspired his associates and pleased his teachers.
From this school he finished A. D., 1898, with so much
credit to himself that at almost all of the annual meetings of
the association, reference is freely made to him as one of the
most enterprising, studious and interesting young men that is
moving among other men of age, standing and experience,
and of whom an intelligent public never speak but in terms
of highest praise.
He was converted and baptized into the fellowship of the
Summerville Baptist church at Pleasant Home, near the City
of Augusta, by his father, Rev. Charlie Williams. This was
in 1892, when he was just thirteen years of age.
It was but four years after his conversion before he felt
called of God to the work of the Gospel ministry, and was
licensed to preach by his father who reluctantly yielded to the
verdict of his congregation. He assisted his father in his vari¬
ous fields until called to the Tremont Temple Baptist Church,
Augusta, A. D., 1900.
140
The bringing of this church up to such high standing
among the old and well established churches of the city was
sufficient evidence of his fitness for greater responsibilities
and these were heaped upon him rapidly.
He was called to the pastorate of Piney Grove Baptist
Church in 1903, at Dearing, Ga., and to Rohoboth, Columbia
County, and Spring Hill Church, Richmond County, in 1905.
In 1908 he 'stole away from other pressing duties and en¬
tered the Divinity School of Atlanta Baptist College' in search
of further light.
He declined a call to the pastorate of Harts Grove Bap¬
tist Church, Spread, Ga., in the fall of 1908, but was called
to the pastorate of the Ways Grove Baptist Church, Stella-
ville, in 'March, 1909, to succeed Rev. S. C. Walker, resigned.
His wife, Mrs. Frances Williams, to whom he was mar¬
ried in 1901. is a suitable companion for this young man who
is now in the midst of his strength.
He is clerk of Ebenezer Association, member of the Ex¬
ecutive Board of the Walker Baptist Institute, and Assistant
Secretary of the Baptist Pastoral Conference of Augusta and
vicinity.
Brother Williams, as we have 3aid, is all sunshine. He
is a hard student, a star in constant motion, a preacher of
ability who can with ease sway and convince the most stub¬
born heart. With a holy ambition to succeed, he associates
with those of his calling whose lives have been consecrated
to the service of the Lord, and the uplifting of a morally and
intellectually oppressed people.
141
CHAPTER 23.
REV. S. P. CAMPBELL, MIDVILLE, GA.
Rev. Sidney P. Campbell- the subject of this sketch, was
born in Jefferson County, near Stellaville, February 20th,
1872. He is the second son of Rev. Green J. and Mrs. Mar-
garette Campbell. He was given all the advantages of the
public schools of his home county, making such rapid im¬
provement that he was able to pass out of the public schools
at an early age and enter the Walker Baptist Institute at Au¬
gusta, where his taste for culture and -refinement was fully
satisfied.
During tlie summer he taught in Burke County, earning
enough to greatly lighten the burden of his father, who was
burdened with the care of a family and the education of other
children.
In 1894 he was forced to leave school on account of ill-
health, and being a man full, grown, he could no longer rely
upon the arm of a father. In the summer of 1886 he was
•converted and baptized into the fellowship of the Smith Grove
Baptist Church, Jefferson County- by the sainted Rev. T. J.
Hornsby, by whom he was subsequently licensed and ordained
to the work of the Gospel ministry.
Though young in the ministry, he has served the follow¬
ing churches, viz.: First Baptist, Statesboro; St. James,
Swainsboro; William Grove, Rogers, and Pine Hill, Burke
County. He is now serving the Needful Baptist Church, near
Millen. Ga., a church that stands among the leading churches
•of the Association.
He was united in marriage to Miss Eliza C. Butler, of
Hillis, Ga., 111 1897, and to this union three children has been
born.
Brother Campbell is also known as one of the leading
farmers of Burke County, having by prudence and economy
•ourchased several acres of some of the best land in that county.
He has a dignified bearing and is not only an intelligent, but
also a safe and painstaking pastor. He is peaceable, and
would have been of much more service as a minister of the
142
Gospel were it not that he had a disposition to keep himself
out of the entanglements that often come across the pathway
of more progressive young men.
As a Trustee of Walker Baptist Institute, he is loyal to
U in every sense, and knowing its great worth by actual ex¬
perience, he supports it with a zeal that cannot be surpassed
by any young man among us.
REV. BERRY B. BERRIEN, MILLEN, GA.
The subject of this sketch was born near McBean, Ga.,
in March, A. D., 1859. like most of our leading men who
has come to prominence, started life on the farm. This life
was favorable to the development of a robust body, but in¬
tellectual development found a ready antagonist in his Mas¬
ter. He attended school but a short while after emancipation
before it was necessary to give up school altogether and earn
his bread in the regular old way. •
It was in 1877 that he was happily converted and bap¬
tized into the fellowship of Palmers Grove Church, near Mc¬
Bean Station, by Rev. Robert Whitehead. Brother Berrien
drifted to Savannah after a few years, but remained there
only one year, when he came back toward home and settled
at Rogers, changing his membership to the Williams Grove
Church of that place. We are not informed what year Brother
B'errien entered the ministry, as his church withdrew from
the Walker Association and held membership with Ebenezer
Association.
In 1896 he moved to Millen, where he lived until 1908.
He was united in marriage to Mrs. Elizabeth Winningham,
December 27th, 1898, and has made for her a husband worthy
of such an excellent wife.
Rev. Berrien has served some of the best churches in the
vicinity of Millen. For .years under his administration San
Hill Baptist Church stood second to none among the country
churches of Walker Association.
He resides at present near Millen at his own home, and
still serves some of the most progressive churches among the
Baptists of that section.
143
REV. SANDY W. WASHINGTON, WAYNESBORO.
He was born in 1872 on the farm near McBean
in Burke County. In the spring of 1886 he attended school
under the author of this book, and was even possessed of those
extraordinary qualities that go to make a noble man. He was
very studious, devoted to his teacher and above all of a re¬
markable quiet disposition. He was converted and baptized
into the fellowship of the Palmers Grove Church in i886> by
Rev. W. G. Johnson, D. D., who was then pastor of that
church. He entered the ministry while quite young, and was
ordained by Rev. Solomon Cummings while he served as
temporary pastor of Palmer Grove. For ten years he has
been engaged in the pastorate, having been accepted by the
Christian people wherever he was known as an exemplary
young man, who was destined to become a great power for
good in the denomination.
Since entering the ministry he has built four large
churches, and for the present he is serving four, viz.: Blounts
Chapel, Philip Grove, Pine Hill and Second Hopeful. No
young man in the knowledge of the writer has with such lim¬
ited opportunities made any more of life than has this young
man who is still rising in the estimation of the people of all
classes.
REV. A. P. KELSEY, MILLEN. GA.
The name of Rev. Kelsey appears in this history not as
a man of extensive learning, but as an humble minister and
farmer, than whom the Walker Association has no better
friend. He is to be classed with the older men whose work
has been largely foundation laying, leaving the superstructure
to be erected by younger men.
He was born September 27th, 1855, an^ united with the
Baptist Church fifteen yesrs later. He was baptized by the
lamented Rev. Robert Kelsey. As a citizen of Burke County
he holds the confidence of those who have known him for
years, both in business and religious life. He has served Kel¬
sey Chapel for fifteen years, and under his influence the church
has enjoyed a steady increase. He is a zealous worker, ex¬
perienced pastor, and in every way a Christian gentleman.
144
REV. R. W. WALKER, Trustee,
And Pastor of Three of Our Best Churches.
CHAPTER 24.
REV. ROBERT WALTON WALKER, AUGUSTA.
The subject of this sketch was born in Burke County,
near Gough, Ga., A. D., 1870, and has had in many respects
a very remarkable career. In early life he manifested such'
interest in books that he was put under the care of Prof. J.
A. Peeks, one of the leading educators in the Burke County
public schools,. Prof. Peeks manifested no little interest in
the education of young Walker, who was almost his son by
adoption. Prof. Peeks being a minister of the Gospel, was
frequently absent from the school room and left W'alker, his
faithful student' charged with the responsibility of looking
after a number of students.
In later years he moved in the upper part of Burke County
and labored on the farm of Austin Streetman. He was con¬
verted and baptized into the fellowship of Spring Hill Baptist
Church, Blythe, Ga., in 1893, by Rev. R. J. Johnson, and al¬
most immediately after was licensed to preach the Gospel.
In 1895 he was united in marriage to Miss Georgia Street-
man, who seemed to have been born for this particular rela¬
tion. Two children, Robert Bunyan and Theodore, blessed
the home and furnished entertainment for a lonely mother
while Rev. Walker is engaged in preaching the 'Gospel. In
1899 he was ordained to the Gospel ministry by Rev. R. J.
Johnson and was called to the pastorate of Dalton Baptist
Church, Screven County.
Realizing as he did the importance of a cultured mind, a
mind capable of handling vexing problems' inseparably asso¬
ciated with the work of the ministry, he entered Walker Bap¬
tist Institute in 1901 and persued for two years the course of
studies laid down by that institution.
Leaving school at the close of the second year, he took
charge of the Spring Hill public school, Burke County, where
for four consecutive years he rendered incalculable service to
both students and patrons .until the increasing weight of his
church work forced him to resign.
145
In January, 1902, he accepted a call to the pastorate of
New Zion Church, Wrens, Ga., and the same year he was
called to succeed the late Rev. T. J. Hornsby at Solid Rock
Church, Columbia County. He also served the Mt. Moriah
Church- Augusta, for three years as successor to Rev. G. S.
Kilpatrick. At present he is the successful pastor of Keys
Grove, Keysville, Ga., Doyle Grove, iBlythe, Ga., New Sa¬
lem, Warrenton and Springfield, Jefferson County. Keys
Grove and Springfield are among the older and most thriving
churches of Walker Association. The success of this young
man, under limited advantages is marvelous, indeed. A care¬
ful reading of the story of his life will not only give inspira¬
tion to those who had very humble beginnings- but will re¬
veal to others lingering in doubt how utterly inadequate are
many of our common difficulties to hinder the progress oi
those whom God has called to be leaders of His people.
Rev. Walker resides in Augusta and is a Trustee of Wal¬
ker Baptist Institute, the school which he cherishes with a
fondness that can only exist in a heart that is truly great.
MRS. ELIZABETH W. BERRIEN, MULLEN, GA.
The name of this woman must appear among those who
have accomplished much for the Walker Association, not that
she is a single exception, but that she has forged herxway
from among common people to an exalted position, where
she commands the admiration and respect of all classes of our
people.
She was born away down on the Savannah river, A. D.,
1864, and remained there until she was four years of age,
when she was carried to Savannah and there cared for by
foster parents- who sent her to a private school for five years.
In 1872 she went to South Carolina, and lived there one year.
Moving from that place, she went to Colquitt, Miller County,
and lived two years. During these three years of constant
changes there was no time for further learning; but in 1876
she returned to her birthplace and entered the public school,
where she studied for three years.
In 1879 she was converted and baptized into the fellow¬
ship of the Cyprus Pond Baptist Church by Rev. John S.
146
Scott. She remained a member of this church for twenty-
six years.
Her first marriage was to William J. Winingham, and
to that union one daughter, Adelaide, was born. Her first
husband lived only a little more than two years. This first
marriage occurred in i88i> but by no means blighted the hope
she had of qualifying herself for higher usefulness, for in i8$9
she entered the Pilgrim High School at Guyton, where she
studied for one year.
In 1895 she entered Spelman Seminary, Atlanta, Ga., ancT
came out of that institution prepared to enter upon life's mis¬
sion.
On the 27th of December, 1898, she was again married to
Rev. Berry B. Berrien, one of the prominent pastors of the
Walker Association.
In 1905 she took a letter of dismission from the Cyprus'
Pond Church and united with the San Hill Baptist Church,
near Millen.
There are several things remarkable in the history of this
Roman's life. She used the church at home for a practice
school, developing her powers to lead great movements until
she was called upon by the management of the iGeneral State
Baptist Convention to do*special work for that body. It was
this coupled with her Christian bearing, that placed her at the
head of one of the greatest movements ever begun by the
Walker Association. When the Christian women of the As¬
sociation met at Maccedonia Baptist Church, at the call of
Rev. J. W. Whitehead, in the summer of 1907, to consider
'the-propriety of organizing a woman's auxiliary to the Wal¬
ker Association, she was elected to the Presidency, and since
then she has succeeded in interesting the women as never
before in Christian work.
Sister Berrien conducts an ideal home and yet by per¬
sistent effort, with a courage that never downs, she sways a
powerful influence over the workers of the state as well as the
people of Walker Baptist Association. Walker Baptist In¬
stitute has in her "a friend that sticketh closer than a brother."
147
CHAPTER 25.
REV. ROMAN JOHN JOHNSON.
(Contributed by Silas X.. Floyd, D. D.)
In an association of great preachers, Rev. R. J. Johnson
stands in the front ranks. A man of fine presence, of fluent
speech, a thinker of no ordinary powers, and withal a tnan
who knows the Bible, he is easily one of the strongest preach¬
ers in the whole State of Georgia.
He was born near Hephzibah, Ga., December 16, 1867,
the son of Deacon Gilbert and Frances Johnson. He is one
of the members of that great family who not only in early
years shaped the policy of Walker Association, but today are
holding some of the highest positions in the gift of that body
as well as other positions of importance all over the state.
Among his earliest teachers may be mentioned S. J. Dan-
forth (white), C. T. Walker, James Messiah and T. M. Dent.
He was converted and baptized into the fellowship of Frank¬
lin Covenant Church, near Hephzibah, in the year 1877. by
Rev. N. Walker. He had not long been a member of the
church, although he was still quite young, before he 1/egan
to take an active part in the affairs of the church, and in 1884
he was sent for the first time as a messenger from his
church to the Association.
October 5, 1885, he was united with Miss Charlotte Wil¬
liams in holy wedlock by the Rev. W. G. Johnson, his wife
being a native of Hephzibah.
In 1886 young Johnson began his career as a school
teacher in Burke County, Ga., and after teaching there for
three years accepted a position as teacher in Richmond Coun¬
ty. where he taught until 1893.
In 1888 he was licensed to preach, and the next year
preached the -introductory sermon before the Walker Baptist
Association, this being the only instance in the history of that
grand old body when such a distinguished honor was ever
paid to a licensed preacher.
148
The first Sunday in December, 1891, he was ordained to
the Gospel ministry by Rev. W. G. Johnson, and Rev. Gad
S. Johnson, having been called to the pastorate of Spring Hill
Baptist Church, Blythe, Ga. In the same year Mr. John¬
son moved to Augusta, Ga., where he has since resided.
During the spring of 1892. within four months after en¬
tering upon his first pastorate, he conducted a revival with¬
out the aid of any other minister, and, as a result, received
many new-born souls into his church, and at his first baptism
immersed fifty people. This was an unparalleled start. Rev.
Johnson still pastors this church, and has built for them dur¬
ing these seventeen years two splendid houses of worship.
In 1892 he was called to Harts Grove Baptist Church,
Spread, Ga., to succeed Rev. Thomas R. Glover. September,
1900. he was called to the pastorate of the First Baptist
Church, Millen, and in October of the same year he was called
to the Eden Baptist Church, Louisville, Ga.
In order to accept the pastorate of the First Baptist
Church, Millen, he resigned the pastorate of the Second Bap¬
tist Church, White Plains, Ga., which church he had served
since 1893.
In December, 1905. Rev. Johnson resigned Harts Grove
at Spread, Ga., and organized the First Baptist church, in the
same town and in the same month. For this church he has
built a $2,000 house of worship, and increased the member¬
ship from 99 to 152.
Rev. Johnson's family at present consists of four chil¬
dren—two sons and two daughters. Of his children, the old¬
est, Miss Inez L. Johnson, has been graduated from Walker
Baptist Institute, and also from Spelman Seminary. Atlanta,
Ga. She is now a valued member of the faculty of Walker
Baptist Institute.
As showing the confidence imposed in "R. J.," as we all
delight to call him, I might mention the fact that for the past
eighteen years he has served as Chairman of the Finance Com¬
mittee of Walker Baptist Association, and for eight years he
has also been treasurer of the same organization. Among
149
other positions of honor and responsibility held by him at
present may be mentioned: Chairman of Executive Board of
iW'alker Baptist Sunday School Convention. Vice-President
of the General State Baptist Convention of Georgia, Secre¬
tary (for ten years) of the Baptist Pastoral Conference of Au¬
gusta and vicinity, and pastor of four of the strongest churches
in the Augusta territory.
Rev. Johnson took his theological course at Walker Bap¬
tist Institute. His whole life has been spent in reading, and
more to his own efforts at self-improvement and to his hard
work in applying himself to his studies is his success to be
attributed, than to any other cause.
Of his services as the historian of our Association^ it will
not be necessary for' me to say a single word. The book is
nearing completion, and will, I am sure, speak for itself. I
know it will be well done, for that is one of Rev. Johnson's
characteristics.
REV. SILAS X. FLOYD, A. M., D. D., AUGUSTA, GA.
It is an unquestionable fact that some men are-born with
an aptness for certain lines of work, and whatever else they
may attempt, they are at best miserable failures. Sift if you
please the whole army of eminent men which the race has
produced since the days of slavery, and it is only here and
there that a man looms up who can compete with the average
along several lines of human endeavor. The record made by
the subject of this sketch along literary lines, has not been
excelled nor hardly equalled, by any Southern negro writer
of his age. opportunity and position, who was not at the out¬
set heir to a great name.
Silas X. Floyd was born in Augusta, Ga., October 2, 1869,
the eighth child of Rev. David and Mrs. Sarah J. Floyd. He
finished his public school course at the Ware.High School at
Augusta, under Major R. R. Wright, before the Board of
Education of Richmond County abandoned higher education
for colored students.
150
He entered the Atlanta University at Atlanta, Ga., in
1886, and was graduated from that institution in 1891, as the
valedictorian of his class. He returned home and became the
editor of the Augusta Sentinel' a paper owned by Prof. R. R.
Wright and Drs. E. K. Love and C. T. Walker. As editor of
the Sentinel he made quite a reputation as an interesting
writer, being frequently quoted by older writers. 1
Not only his talent, but his conservative position on ques¬
tions effecting the best interest of his race, commended him
to the Richmond County Board of Education, and he was ac¬
cordingly elected in 1891 as principal of the Fourth Ward
public school. When in 1892 the Mauge Street School was
completed and the Fourth Ward School merged into it, Mr.
Floyd was made the Assistant Principal of the Mauge Street
School, which position ha held for five years, during which
time he was still editor of the Sentinel. He was one of the
members who entered into the organization of the Tabernacle
Church, of which Dr. C. T. Walker is pastor, and by that
church he was licensed to preach in November, 1895* and was
ordained from the same church in February, 1896.
In June of that year he resigned all positions held by
him, and entered the service of the International Sunday
School 'Convention, as a field worker for the Southern
States. This position he held for three years, but resigned
over the protest of the management to accept a call to the
pastorate of the Tabernacle Church as the successor, of Dr.
C. T. Walker, who had accepted a call to the pastorate of Mt.
Olivet Church of New York City. Still wedded to field work,
Rev. Floyd resigned the pastorate of Tabernacle Church after
a little more than a year's service, and entered the field again,
this time under the American Baptist Publication Society, as
missionary for the states of Alabama and 'Georgia.
After the death of Prof. H. L. Walker. Mr. Floyd was
again called to take charge as Principal of the First Ward
School of Augusta, which position he held until the death of
Prof. A. R. Johnson in November, 1908, when he was elected
Principal of the Mauge Street Grammar School.
151
AS A WRITER.
As a writer of rare ability, he is widely known. He pos¬
sesses a natural fondness for young people, and so much of
his writings has been made to suit the taste and needs of the
young. He is a born poet and humorist, and such papers as
the Sunday School Times, The International Evangel, The
New York Independent, Lippincott's Magazine, The World's
Work. The New York Herald, The Southern Workman, and
many other periodicals have frequently paid the price for his
contributions.
He is also the author of a volume of sermons published
by the American Baptist Publication Society, and classed
among their standard works. • He is also the author of the
Life of Charles T. Walker, D. D., LL. D., the Moderator of
Walker Association, and is known on two continents as the
"Black Spurgeon."
During the entire existence of "The Voice of the Negro,"
he has been manager of the Wayside Department. He re¬
ceived his degree of Master of Arts from the Atlanta Uni¬
versity in 1894, and the degree of Doctor of Divinity from the
Morris Brown College of Atlanta, Ga., in 1902.
Mrs. Ella James, to whom he was married May 6th' 1901,
has been to him more than a helpmate.
As a public speaker, Dr. Floyd is easily among the great¬
est of the race. His ability to amuse, and then when neces¬
sary, sadden the hearts of his hearers, to employ the simplest
form of speech, to inject .and combine in the shortest talk the
richest gems of rhetoric and wit, is perhaps the overshadow¬
ing qualities, which have opened to him the ear of a race, and
given access to the columns of some of the best white papers
of the South.
Year by year as the Southern negro is awakened to a
full realization of his real condition, the conservative policy
pursued by Mr. Floyd on all questions where the rights of
two races is involved, is becoming more popular and less of-
152
fensive to those who have sought recognitibn and popularity
by other methods, which until now have not greatly rewarded
them nor the people whom they would represent.
As a Trustee of Walker Baptist Institute he has mani¬
fested untold interest in the work and has represented the
Trustees of the school before audiences to whose consideration
only the ablest speakers could appeal.
153
CHAPTER 26.
REV. W. H. WHITFIELD, WAYNESBORO, GA.
Rev. Whitfield is one of the oldest members of the Wal¬
ker Association, having united with that body at Franklin
Covenant Church, A. D., 1869. He was born in Burke County,
near Handcock Landing- in 1848, and spent the first seven¬
teen years of his life on the farm as a slave. The story of his
life is very interesting, and we would give it somewhat in de¬
tail but for the reason that space forbids enlargement on the
plan of this book outlined in the outset.
It was during the war times, at least before the smoke
of battle had cleared the skies, that Brother Whitfield left
the old plantation and drifted south as far as Savannah. He
was separated from his older companions by the drifting of a
boat from shore, and was found by the Union soldiers lost
between the river and lake, and rescued from a sad and un¬
timely death. After freedom he went to Augusta and from
thence he drifted to Columbia County. He returned to Burke
County when about 22 years of age, and he and his brother
attended night school.
He began Christian work at Murphey Ebenezer Church,
where he attended Sunday School and ere long united with
that church by baptism. Brother Whitfield took a letter from
Murphey Ebenezer Church, and became one of the first mem¬
bers of Job Spring Church, which he subsequently pastored
for three or four years. He also pastored St. Marrien Church,
and also Watkinsville Church for a number of years.
He is at present content to live on his farm, and follow
the meetings of the Association here and to relate his experi¬
ences, and rejoice over the success already attained.
REV. J. W. WHITEHEAD, AUGUSTA, GA.
Rev. John W. Whitehead was not born and reared in
the Walker Association, but he cannot be surpassed in loyalty
to the work. He came to Augusta several years ago as a
154
common laborer, worked about at almost any trade out of
which he could get an honest living. He is originally from
Crawford, Ga., near Athens, where he is connected with one
of the best families of . that section of country. Coming to
Augusta, he united with the Antioch Baptist Church, of which
the late Rev. Thomas J. Hornsby was pastor.
He entered heartily into the work of the church and made
many friends- among both young and old. He had a limited
learning at the outset, but later entered Payne College and
greatly improved himself along literary lines. Feeling called
of God to the work of the ministry and with a will power
unequalled by the ordinary man, set out under many disad¬
vantages to reach the highest round in the ladder.
Rev. T. J. Hornsby, who was always the young man's
friend, gave him every encouragement, and forced upon him
responsibilities that were indeed a trial of his faith. Having
proven himself worthy, he was ordained and soon afterward
called to the pastorate of the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, just
outside of the city limits of Augusta. A little later he was
called to the pastorate of the Pine Hill Church, Jefferson
County, and later still to Piney Grove Church, Dearing. Ga.,
and the Springfield Church, Thomson, Ga. These churches
he built up and baptized a large number of souls. He resigned
Pine Hill to accept a call to the pastorate of the Antioch Bap¬
tist Church, Augusta, in 1901, as the successor of the Rev.
T. J. Hornsby (deceased). He also resigned Piney Grove, at
Dearing, to succeed Rev. Hornsby as pastor of the Stamp
Branch Church, near Warrenton, Ga. He has had other calls to
prominent churches, which he could not accept.
At present he is pastoring the following churches: Spring¬
field, Stamp Branch and Antioch. All of these churches are
large and influential. As a pastor he is always successful.
No man surpasses him in zeal for the Master's work. Brother
[Whitehead forged his way to the front among the leading men
of the state, and today he holds many prominent positions of
honor and trust among the brethren representing the (Baptist
organizations of Georgia. He has been an untiring member
155
of the Executive Board of the Walker Baptist Association for
quite a number of years, holding almost every position up to
and including the Chairmanship. Long years ago when the
workers were few in the city, Brother Whitehead was one
of those who willingly served under the older brethren in
managing the affairs of Walker Baptist Institute, and this
service was both hard and lasting.
He is a preacher of ability, and is one of the few men who
is both a great preacher and pastor. His home, just outside
of the City of Augusta, is an ideal one. where his wife, Mrs. E.
J. Whitehead, and daughter, Hattie, assist him in conducting
a splendid home and a small farm, where many of the com¬
forts of life are to be found.
As a further evidence of his interest in the Walker Bap¬
tist Association and its school, the Walker Baptist Institute,
he started a movement among the women in 1907,, and it
finally resulted in the organization of the Woman's Mission¬
ary Society, auxiliary to the Walker Association. These are
only some of the things that tell how this man's life has
blessed the people among whom he lives and who honors him
as a preacher, pastor and friend.
REV. G. S. KILPATRICK» HEPHZIBAH, GA.
Rev. Grant S. Kilpatrick is a young man of exceptional
qualities. He was born in 'B<urke County, near Waynesboro,
Ga., A. D., 1872. He was turned over to his grandmother to
be reared while but a lad', and she being poor, was compelled
to force him to assist her in earning his daily bread, at the
very time he should have been in school. What we will see
of this young man will be set forth as the result of the efforts
of his parents, coupled with a personal ambition to make of
himself a man.
Before he had completed the studies prescribed by the
County Board of Education, he was forced to go out and try
his hand at winning bread. From the farm to the railroad, and
from the railroad to the hotel he went* all the while restless,
156
and feeling that his future was gloomy and fraught with diffi¬
culties too hard to be overcome.
After failing as a barber, he started out as a bricklayer,
and was so eminently successful he was soon honored with
large contracts, even when there was much competition.
He was converted and baptized into the fellowship of
the First Baptist Church, Millen, Ga., by Rev. S. D. Rosier,
A. D., 1893, and at once became prominent as a Sunday School
worker.
Brother Kilpatrick, while engaged in the study of the
Bible to fit him for efficient work in the Sunday School- was
moved to enter the ministry. The church seeing his fitness for
the work, licensed him in 1897, under the pastorate of Rev.
W. A. McCloud. Four years later he was ordained by Rev.
R. J. Johnson.
The progress made by this young man was indeed re¬
markable. He was kept busy by older ministers assisting in
revivals here and there until by request he gathered a con¬
gregation in an old prayer house and organized the Gordon
Hill Baptist church, near Green's Cut. After organizing this
church in 1903, he moved to Augusta, and entered Walker
Baptist Institute. His stay in this school was very limited,
but he received sufficient training to give him a place among
the leading men of his denomination.
He has served Mt. Moriah Church, Augusta; St. Philip,
Swainsboro, and is now the pastor of JMcKinnie Branch, Mc-
Bean; St. Paul. 'Burke County; Gordon Hill, Green's Cut, and
First McCoy, Perkins, Ga. He is a powerful preacher, sound
in doctrine, cheerful in manners, and is a safe leader of those
over whom the Holy 'Ghost has made him overseer. As a
Trustee of Walker Baptist Institute, he is loyal to the cause
of education, not only in the bounds of the Walker Associa¬
tion, but also in any other field that appeals to a consecrated
Christian spirit.
At present he is living on a farm with his wife, Frances
Kilpatrick, daughter of Deacon Sam Feeling, to whom he
was married about five years ago.
157
CHAPTER 27.
REV. G. J. CAMPBELL, ROSIER, GA.
Rev. Green Jackson Campbell, one of the most successful
ministers and planters of Burke County, is held in the high¬
est esteem by all who know him in both social and busi¬
ness affairs. He was born a slave, March 31st, 1847, i11 Je^"
ferson County, near the town of Keysville.
In early childhood he was carried by his master, Alex
Roberson, to Warren County, where he served faithfully in
the capacity of butler and coachman, until emancipation. He
then went to Sparta and worked in the employ of Dr. Jones
as teamster and coachman for two years. In 1867 he moved
to the plantation of Noah Smith, in Jefferson County, and in
November of the same year he was married to 'Mrs. Margaret
Kelly, a lady of high standing and unquestionable integrity.
As the result of this union they have five living children,
namely: Sidney P., Charlie T., Mattie, Martin and Thomas.
Sidney and Charlie are very able preachers, and like their
father are among the most successful farmers of Burke Coun¬
ty. Miss Mattie is now the wife of Prof. L. O. Young, of
Midville, and Thomas is now a student of Walker Baptist
Institute.
CHURCH WORK.
In 1868 Rev. Campbell was happily converted and united
with Smith Grove Baptist .Church, under the pastorate of
Rev. Alfred Young, and shortly afterwards he was licensed
and ordained to the ministry. He was a very strong preacher
and is regarded as one of the best pastors of Walker Asso¬
ciation. He has pastored the following churches: Shavers
Creek, St. Paul, Oliphant, Flat Rock, Springfield, Burke, and
Beech iBranch. He has been a Trustee of Walker Baptist
Association and its school ever since its organization. He
is also founder of the Neely Hospital in Waynesboro. He
has made commendable progress along agricultural lines. In
1869 he was a one-horse cropper; now he owns 830 acres of
158
land in Burke County, and operates a twenty-horse farm. He
owns a modern ginnery, raises almost all the supplies that is
necessary to maintain a comfortable home.
REV. W. H. BESSENT.
Here again we must speak of a man who has spent all
of his years in the country. He is not averse to city life, but
he has always found himself more at home among the sons
of toil who dig from the stubborn field the wealth and ex¬
perience that make them men. He was born October 26th,
i860, in Burke County, and was converted and baptized on
the second Sunday in December, 1886, at Bottsford Church
by Rev. R. Whitehead. He received a common school edu¬
cation in the public schools, and with this meagre training
he set out to make an impress on the world. He was for
a long time clerk and superintendent of his Sunday School.
He was licensed to preach by his church in May, 1889, and
was ordained in September of the same year.
In 1890 he was called to the pastorate of Job Spring
Baptist Church and served it successfully until he resigned
it to accept the pastorate of Bottsford Spring Church, one of
the oldest in the Walker Association. He served this church,
ten years, and then resigned this charge to accept the pastor¬
ate of Grays Grove Church as successor of Rev. H. C. Lane
(deceased).
He has served the following churches, viz.: Job Spring,
Friendship, near Millen, Ga., McCoy, Perkins, Fountain
Spring and St. Philip, Swainsboro.
As a church builder his equal is hard to find in Burke
County. He is naturally kind at heart, intelligent and de¬
voted to the Walker Association and its school. For years he
has been one of the few men of Burke County who kept up
with all of the meetings of the National as well as the State
Conventions. He is one of the most prominent members of
the Executive Board of Wralker Baptist Institute, and is also
a member of the Board of the General State 'Baptist Conven¬
tion of Georgia. He is yet in the fullness of his strength.
159
CHAPTER 28.
REV. CHARLES T. WALKER, D. D., LL. D., MODERA¬
TOR.
Rev. Charles Thomas Walker, known all over these Uni¬
ted States as one of, if not the greatest, negro preacher this
country has produced, is a man whose life is so full of inter¬
esting events that to attempt a full description of even a ma¬
jority of them would engage the time of some able writer for
quite a length of time. In attempting to perform any great
and difficult task, we are often very much helped if we feel
that we can in any way measure up to our own ideas of what
is even a near fulfillment of what others may rightfully ex¬
pect of us. When we are brought face to face with- the life
of a truly great man, upon whom admiring thousands of
every color and creed have lavished a perfect wealth of praise,
stretched almost to the point of adoration; a man who has
listened so often to his name associated with both dead and
living heroes of every age and clime; a man with reference
to whose sermons and addresses, the best writers of the age
have spent a wealth of words in attempting a description.
What am I do to when I find that same character, inseparably
associated with almost every important particle of the His¬
tory of Wlalker. Association ? To re-write a story that at its
best cannot add to the importance of its object, as he is seen
moving among his own people of v/hom he is never ashamed,
is to my mind in this particular case, a duty only to the com¬
ing generations.
The difficulty arises when we attempt to pick out of a
long life the things that will best suit those who will read
this book. Rev. Charles Thomas Walker, the son of Deacon
Charles Thomas and Hannah Walker, was born near Heph-
zibah, Richmond County, Ga., February 5th, 1858. He be¬
gan life under serious disadvantages in that his father died
just two days before his birth. He comes from the genuine
160
REV. S. P. CAMPBELL, Trustee,
And Pastor of Needful.
stock of that peculiarly interesting Walker family that prac¬
tically gave to all of the slave holders in that vicinity the first
convincing evidence of the possibilities of the negro when
given humane treatment and a fighting chance to win those
things that make for a higher civilization.
One of his uncles was Rev. Nathan Walker, founder of
the Walker Association, and another was the Rev. Joe Wal¬
ker, for whom the Association was named. One of his broth¬
ers, Rev. Peter Walker, who is still living in Augusta, was
the first Moderator of Walkef Baptist Association.
When young Charlie was yet under age he found a home
among the different members of his family, living most of his
time, howeyer, with his uncle, Nathan Walker, and his
brother, Peter Walker.
Beginning his Christian life, he was baptized at Frank¬
lin Covenant Church, near Hephzibah, on the first Sunday
in July , 1873, by his uncle, Rev. Nathan Walker. In 1874
he entered the Augusta Institute (now the Atlanta Baptist
College), under Dr. .Joseph T. Roberts, D. D. LL. D., and
with scarcely enough mcfney to pay for one month's board,
he started on a career which has been attended with marvel¬
ous success.
In 1876 he was licensed to preach, and was ordained to
the Gospel ministry the following year. He started out as
an ordinary country pastor, serving Franklin Covenant^ Heph¬
zibah; Thankful, Waynesboro, and McKinnie Branch, Mc-
Bean, Ga. About the same time he was called to the pas¬
torate of Mt. Olive Church, Augusta, but he served this
charge for only a short time.
He taught school both in Jefferson and Richmond Coun¬
ties, and has lived to see many of his former students de-
velope into strong leaders who are now associated with him
in the work of the Association.
On June 19th, 1879, he was united in marriage to Miss
Violet G. Franklin, of Hephzibah, and as a result of that
union three children were born unto them. Of the children,
all are dead except one son.
161
HIS FIRST CHANGE.
In 1880 he was called to the First Baptist Church at La-
Grange, Ga., where, during three years, he rendered faithful
services to the church, and established a school for the Bap¬
tists. of the town, which afterwards developed into the La-
Grange Academy. While at LaGrange he read law under
an able practitioner, Judge Walker, but has not been known
to plead at any bar except the bar of both human and divine
justice for himself and his very much oppressed people.
While in the midst of his usefulness he was called to the
pastorate of the Central Baptist Church of Augusta, which
church had been engaged in a religious war for about twelve
months. After Dr. Walker appeared upon the scene it was
evident that an agreement between the two factions was im¬
possible. A sale of the property was forced, and the proceeds
from the sale amounting to more than $4,000, was equally
divided among the two factions. Dr. Walker took his follow¬
ing, being more than 400 in number, and organized the Tab¬
ernacle Baptist Church, a church now known all over a large
portion of this country, and over whose affairs any minister
would be glad to preside. In connection with this church
there is an "Old Folks Home," founded by Dr. Walker, and
through it many poor and almost forsaken old Christians has
found a comfortable place to spend their declining years. The
property of the church is worth about $20,000 (twenty thous¬
and dollars) and of the money given for the relief of other
needy causes it is useless to speak. Of the souls saved and
other good accomplished the history of Tabernacle, found on
another page, will tell.
HIS VISIT TO THE HOLY LAND.
Tabernacle Church, in recognition of the great services
rendered by Dr. C. T. Walker during the first five years of his
services as pastor, distinguished herself by sending him to the
Holy Land. This was in the spring of 1891, and during his
162
absence Rev, L. B. Goodall supplied the pulpit. He sailed
from New York City on the steamship City of New York,
Wednesday, April 15th, bound for Liverpool, accompanied
by Dr. E. R. Carter, of Atlanta, Ga., and for three months,
perhaps no hour passed, when his name was not on some
tongue that was expressing in some way the sincere hope
that he would be spared to return to this country in good
health as well as in safety.
On this trip every place of universal prominence was vis¬
ited. (Beginning at Liverpool, he visited London, Paris, Turin,
Genoa, Pisa, Rome, Pompeii, Alexandria, Cairo, Joppa, Jeru¬
salem, Bethlehem, Hebrom, Jericho, Bethany, the Mt. of
Olives, Gethsemane and many other places of lesser import¬
ance. At the conclusion of this trip he returned to his own
country and spent much of the following winter lecturing all
over these United States on "The Holy Land and What I
saw."
It was such a new thing to most of the people of his
race to hear of a colored man crossing the ocean and tracking
the apostles and heroes of the early Christian era across a
country whose very soil was sacred, that Dr. W'alker had to
bring back with him many sacred relics and tell a story that
any sane mind was obliged to believe.
In 1898, during the Spanish-American war, Dr. Walker
was appointed chaplain in the army. He joined his regiment,
the Ninth Immunes, at San Louis, Cuba, about the middle of
November. This position, which he held for several months,
furnished an opportunity for him to increase his already splen¬
did store of knowledge concerning the manners and customs
of other peoples, who, until now, are not far removed from
the habits and customs of which ancient historians have told.
As an evangelist Dr. Walker is unsurpassed. Thousands
have been brought to Christ through his preaching. Invita¬
tions to conduct revival meetings have become so numerous
that it is even impossible for many of them to receive any
consideration at all. They come at all seasons of the year
163
from almost every state in the Union, but his own church
(Tabernacle) is the pride of his life and the object of his
greatest endeavors. Just as he is wanted everywhere to con¬
duct revivals, he is also wanted to deliver addresses at the
commencements of some of the most eminent colleges and
universities of this country.
In 1899 he was called to the pastorate of the Mt. Olivet
Baptist Church, New York City, and for the first time Taber¬
nacle Church was brought to real grief—a grief akin to agony,
but the firmness of Dr. Walker's mind, when once made up,
made all protests fruitless. In short, he went, and was in
New York as in Augusta, the leader of his race in things re¬
ligious. The permanent establishment of a thoroughly
equipped Y. M. C. A., in which both white and colored took
pride, was only one of his achievements in that city. While
there he caught the ear of the press of the nation and
through sermons and addresses delivered and published, he
created interest in the welfare of his race such as no man
born in the North could have done. During the years when
Dr. Walker was in New York Dr. S. X. Floyd was pastor of
Tabernacle Church atAugusta,Ga.
RECALLED TO TABERNACLE.
In June, 1901, Dr. Walker was recalled to the pastorate
of Tabernacle Church. The old love revived, and back to
Augusta he came to again steer the old ship, and devote more
time to the work of the Walker Baptist Association.
HIS CONNECTION WITH THE WALKER BAPTIST
INSTITUTE.
For thirty-six years he has been connected with the Wal¬
ker Baptist Association. First as a messenger from Frank-'
hn Covenant Church, and next as a pastor of some of her
oldest and most prominent churches. He was clerk for three
years, always a member of the Executive Board and for eight
years he has been the much honored Moderator.
164
It was chiefly through his influence that the Walker Bap-
#tist Institute was removed from Waynesboro to Augusta in
1892, and it was through his efforts as Moderator that much
Northern help has been given the school in the last eight
years. For a number of years he was president of the school,
resigning over the protest of the Board, in order that some
one might take the position who was in position to give their
full time to the work. He is very progressive and has raised
the standard of the school in every way. P'or the p?st few
years his church has given annually more than $500 to the
school, and has entertained the annual meeting of the Wal¬
ker 'Baptist Association twice in the last twelve years.
Of the various positions in the religious world, it is use¬
less to start to mention them. He has filled so many posi¬
tions in the local, state and national bodies that he . can no
longer be honored by these organizations.
As to his disposition, he surprises one with his humility,
and sympathy for all classes of people regardless of their
faults. His liberality knows no bounds. Eternity alone v^ill
reveal the extent to which his wisdom and discretion
has gone in saving his people at critical times from the loss
of life, liberty and happiness, which is not only essential to the
well being of a race, but to the nation as well.
165
CHAPTER 29.
REV. S. C. WALKER, B. D., AUGUSTA.
Rev. Samuel C. Walker, the subject of this sketch, is the
son of the lamented Rev. Henry Walker. His mother, 'Mrs.
Martha Walker, now numbered with the dead, was one of
the devout and pious women of her community. For nine¬
teen years he was a plain farmer's son, living in Burke Coun¬
ty, near Blythe, Ga., where he was born, A. D., 1871. Of
course, he attended the public school, where he received a
primary education. He was converted and baptized into the
fellowship of the Spring Hill Baptist church by Rev. T. J.
Hornsby in 1885, and at once entered upon a career of useful¬
ness.
His father died in 1885, and after five years the family
moved to Augusta, Ga. In Augusta he worked as a common
laborer, principally as a wheelwright. His employer says that
he constantly preached little sermons as he forged the irons
into proper shape. Being called upon to do Sunday School
work, he found the study of the Scriptures a congenial task.
In 1896 he was licensed to preach at Spring Hill Church
and ordained in 1897. He entered Walker Baptist Institute
in the fall of 1896 and graduated from that institution in 1901.
He began his career as pastor in 1897, when he was called
to the pastorate of the Magnolia Baptist Church, near Avera,
Ga. In the same year, about the month of October, he was
called to Elim Baptist Church, Augusta, and Franklin Cove¬
nant Church, near Hephzibah, Ga. The first church men¬
tioned he served' five years and is still pastor of the last two.
He was called to Ways Grove, Stellaville, Ga., which forced
upon him a greatly increased responsibility. In spite of these
large charges which called for his full time and strength, he
secured permission to engage a substitute and entered Atlanta
Baptist College in the fall of the same year. In the spring of
1903, while in college, he was married to Miss Fanny Taylor,
the daughter of Deacon Albert Taylor, by Rev. R. J. John-
166
son, and to that happy union two children has been born,
namely, Albert and "The Baby."
He finished the divinity course in the Atlanta Baptist
College in 1907, and was given the degree of B. D., which he
fully merited.
In December, 1908, he was called to the Thankful [Bap¬
tist Church, Waynesboro, which forced him to resign the pas¬
torate of Ways Grove Church. Before he entered upon these
large pastorates he was a great Sunday School worker, serv¬
ing for a term of years as General Superintendent of the Wal¬
ker Baptist Sunday School Convention. While in college in
Atlanta he served as supply pastor two churches in convenient
reach of Atlanta. He has been a member of the Executive;
Board of Walker Association and is now a business manager
of the Walker Baptist Institute. . For a number of years his
churches were the banner churches of the Association for the
reason that they sent up larger contributions to the work than
any other churches of their size. There is some history at¬
tached to his churches. Franklin Covenant is the mother of
the Association. It was organized at Ways Grove. Walker
Baptist Institute was started in Thankful. Palmers Grove is
one of the oldest and largest of the Association, and Elim is
one of the two or three churches that pushed open the gates
of a great city to allow the Walker Association to enter.
As a preacher, Rev. Walker is among the strongest in the
state. Intensely logical in the delivery of his sermons, he is
ever heard with pleasure by all. He firmly believes in the
possibilities of his race, and a great lover of humanity. His
churches cling to him, and though he has had several oppor¬
tunities to enter more promising fields of labor, he is conse¬
crating his time and strength to the service of the churched
built by the fathers, and for which they spent their strength.
REV. THOMAS M. SAPP, AUGUSTA, GA.
The subject of this sketch is one of the younger minis¬
ters of the Walker Baptist Association, one who from a very
167
humble beginning has made his way to the front. He was
born in Burke County, A. D., 1876, near what is commonly
known as Alexander, Ga. His parents, Henderson and Jane
Sapp, are among the older citizens of that community. His
boyhood days was spent on the farm, attending the public
schools of that county.
In 1888 he was converted and baptized at Springfield
Church by Rev. A. S. Wright. He began at once to follow
the example of his parents and take an active part in religious
affairs. He entered the ministry A. D., 1900, and after preach¬
ing as a licentiate for about two years he was called to or¬
dination by his church, and ordained by Rev. G. J. Camp¬
bell, November, 1902, in the presence of a host of people who
predicted for this young man a brilliant career,
j His first charge was Spears Grove Church, of the
Noah Ebene-zer Association. Other calls followed in rapid
succession. Galilee, Johnson Grove, Daniel Grove, Salters
Grove and Second Springfield, near Waynesboro, extended
him urgent calls between 1902 and 1909. Of these churches
he is still serving Galilee, Daniel Grove, Salters Grove and;
Second Springfield.
Brother Sapp was united in holy wedlock 'witJi Miss An¬
nie L. Higgins, December 28th, 1898, and to that union three
children were born, but all died while quite young.
In preaching, Brother Sapp is sound and deliberate, but
he is nevertheless forceful. To the new listener his manner
is rambling and slow, but to those accustomed to hearing him,
his manner is pleasing indeed as they know what a wealth of
truths will come out of the subject under discussion.
Brother Sapp moved with his family to Augusta in the
early part of 1909, and entered Walker Baptist Institute,
where he is better preparing himself for the promotions which
must come to any man endowed with his gifts and attain¬
ments.
168
REV. WARREN W. JONES, Trustee.
Pastor Macedonia Baptist Church.
REV. WILLIE A. M'CLOUD, WADLEY.
Rev. W. A. McCloud was born in Screven County, near
Millen, Ga., in 1858. During the first year of freedom his
father was killed, and he was sent to Jefferson County to be
reared by his uncle. In 1870 he was converted and baptized
into the fellowship of San Clair Baptist Church by Rev. J.
T. Thomas. He v/as elected superintendent of the Sunday
School, and through this position he worked himself up in the
confidence of the entire membership. In 1878 he was united
in marriage to Miss Alice Keepler, and to this union several
children were born.
He served as deacon and clerk of his church for seven
years and was then licensed to preach in 1880 by Rev. J. J.
Davis. He was nominated as a candidate for the Georgia
Legislature in 1886, and made such a warm fight for the honor
that he was forced to leave home and take up residence in
Atlanta, where he lived until 1890.
Returning home, he engaged in active Sunday School
work in the bounds of Walker Association, and was elected
General Superintendent oi the Evesville Sunday School Con¬
vention. When the convention was called upon to mourn
the loss of her Vice-President, Rev. H. M. Williams, Rev. Mc¬
Cloud was chosen to fill the position. In this capacity he
served the Sunday School workers until the death of Prof. S.
Y. Pope, when he was elected President.
This convention changed its name to Walker Baptist
Sunday School Convention, but for fifteen years no change
has been made in the leader.
In 1908 he was elected custodian of the steamship Adula,
that was captured by a part of Samson's fleet, during the
Spanish-American war. He had entire charge of this boat
at Savannah until it was ordered to New York. He followed
his charge to New York and was on water about twenty days.
169
AS A MINISTER.
As a minister of the Gospel he has been eminently suc¬
cessful. He has pastored the following churches, viz.: Mace¬
donia, Lawtonville, First Baptist, Millen; First Baptist, Still-
more; Macedonia, Louisville; Roundtree Island, Midville; St.
James, Scarboro; Calvary, Lyons, and Brinson Hill, Wadley,
Ga.
He is a very successful pastor, a Trustee of Walker Bap¬
tist Association and a member of the Executive Board of the
General State Baptist Convention of Georgia. This record,
without a word of comment, speaks for itself.
170
CHAPTER 30.
REV. PLEASANT E. GREEN, WADLEY. GA.
Rev. P. E. Green, of Wadley, was born in Jefferson Coun¬
ty, Ga., May nth, 1842, and by this it will be seen that he is
now a man of years. In early life he was a farmer, and in¬
deed during all these years he has never given up farming en¬
tirely. At first Brother Green united with the Methodist
Church, but later he changed his faith and became a Baptist.
On the second Sunday in June, 1874, he was baptized into
the fellowship of the Second Bethel [Baptist Church by Rev.
James Kelsey, where he remained a member for some time,
finally changing to San Clair Church, where in ,May, 1882, he
was ordained to the work of the Gospel ministry by Revs. T.
G. Green and E. Burton.
Rev. Green made his way to the hearts of the brethren
of the W'alker Association by his undisputed loyalty to the
work that engaged it. He has pastored some good churches,
made so by his untiring effort to do all in his power to ad¬
vance the cause of his own race.
At the annual meetings of the Association when the brethren
are dull and indifferent, he is one of those who can with prayer
move the dullest spirit, and put life in a' meeting that is cold
in every respect. Though in his declining years, he is still a
powerful preacher, whom the brethren delight to hear. He is
still in the pastorate and in the hearts of the people. May
God spare him for many more years of usefulness.
REV. C. T. CAMPBELL, ROSIER.
Rev. Charlie Campbell is one of the sons of the Rev. G.
J. Campbell, and while young in the ministry, is making for
himself a name among the leaders of the Association. He is
the pastor of Campbell Baptist Church, recently organized,
and is also one of the leading farmers of that section of counr
try where his church is located.
r 71
REV. R. W. MARSHALL, AUGUSTA.
Rev. Marshall is one of the quiet pastors of the Walker
Association, who has made but little progress in the pastorate
simply because he was late entering the ministry. He is a
member of the Macedonia Baptist Church of Augusta, and is
one of those men whose looks is very deceiving. No one would
take him for a great preacher, but he rose from the deaconry
to a place not only among the pastors, but among the leading
pastors of the Walker Association. He is very quiet and un¬
assuming. He engages in merchandizing for a living, and in
that little store when there is nothing doing, he can be found
almost invariably reading the one book, the Bible. He was
married for a second time in 1908, after several years of single
life. If I was asked to say what was the best and the most
accurate description of this man pressed into one sentence, I
would simply say: He is a good man and full of zeal for his
people and his God. For a number of years he was pastor of
Flat Rock Baptist Church of Matthew, Ga., the Baptist Church
at Bonesville, Ga., and Balton Church of Screven County.
REV. J. M. SAPP, PERKINS, GA.
Rev. J. M. Sapp is pastor of Carswell Grove Church and
while limited in learning, he is a sound preacher and a com¬
petent pastor. Under his ministration as pastor of Carswell
Grove he has brought up to the annual meetings of the Walker
Association more money than is commonly given by churches
in the rural districts. He made his first great mark as a leader
in 1900 when the Association was in great need of strong
friends. Two or three times he has been appointed to preach
leading sermons before the Association, and every time he has
made a lasting impression upon the brethren. Outside of the
Carswell Grove charge he has pastored some of the bes?
churches around him, always bringing them up to a higher
standard of efficiency to do the work for which they were or¬
ganized.
IJ2
In the pulpit he is full of wit and humor, and out of the
pulpit he is plain and quiet. Men like Brother Sapp is abso¬
lutely indispensable to the work in which the Association is
engaged.
H. C. YOUNG, DEACON.
The subject of this sketch was born in Jefferson County,
near Matthew, Ga., August 22, 1864. He is one of a large
number of brothers and sisters born as the result of the mar¬
riage of his father, Rev. Alfred Young, to Miss Mary Walker.
As a boy he spent his youth on the farm and attended the
public schools of his county under Prof. Edward Newby
(white) and Rev. C. T. Walker when he' was a public school
teacher. Under these teachers he studied along with the others
of his age, with no dream of the important place he was soon
to fill in the religious and business world.
In 1883, when he was just budding into young manhood,
he left the country and moved to Augusta, Ga., and after one
year opened a mercantile business on a small scale.
He was converted and baptized into the fellowship of
Tabernacle Baptist Church on the first Sunday in June, 1888,
by Rev. C. T. Walker, D. D., and today he is one of the most,
if not the most representative man, among that large body of
members. In his church he holds the confidence of his pas¬
tor and the entire membership. Shortly after uniting with
Tabernacle he was elected a member of the Board of Trustees,
which position he filled until he was ordained a deacon. He
is now the treasurer of his church, and in that position he
handles and accounts for hundreds of dollars each year.
October 2, 1889, he was united in marriage to Miss Fanny
Griner, and to that union one child was born, but it lived only
three months.
It would be useless to attempt to mention the various po¬
sitions once held by (Brother Young since he united with the
church, for he has been so very enterprising that nothing that
173
concerned the uplift of his race has escaped his notice and sup¬
port.
He is now President of the Deacons Union, President of
the Pilgrim Life and Health Insurance Company, and one of
the leading Trustees of Walker Association.
He is a merchant of reputation, carrying in his store $2,000
worth of stock, and besides that he is worth in real estate about
$4,000 worth of the best pioperty in the city.
The race is not over full of men of his kind. Few men
rise to such a station in the religious and business world, with
none to help him but the kind words of friends whom he had
won by practicing the most honest business methods.
174
CHAPTER 31.
REV. WARREN W. JONES, AUGUSTA.
Young men with limited advantages hardly ever rise with
the same rapidity as did Rev. W. W. Jones. He was born in
Richmond County, near Hephzibah, Ga., August 21st, 1874.
It is just a little strange, according to the spirit of the times,
that he did not enter school until he was quite twelve years of
age.1 Rev. Jones is the second son of Deacon Philip and Mrs.
Chanie Jones, of Hephzibah, Ga., who are today living in the
confidence and respect of the best people of that community
that has been the birthplace of so many prominent men. ■
From 1886 to 1889 he was a pupil in the Richmond County
public schools under such teachers as Prof. Stephen A. Wal¬
ker and R. J. Johnson. Naturally ambitious and apt to learn,
he soon proved to his parents that he had high aspirations, and
accordingly he was placed in Walker Baptist Institute the first
of December, 1892, being among the first country boys to fol¬
low the school to Augusta. While yet young he was converted
and baptized into the fellowship of Franklin Covenant Baptist
Church by Rev. C. T. Walker. This was in 1886, when he was
just 12 years of age.
Brother Jones left school in 1895, and entered upon his ca¬
reer as a public school teacher, beginning in the County of
Burke. Three years after he began preaching he was called
to the pastorate of Adams Grove Baptist Church, Gracewood,
Ga., where he put in some very hard work for the development
of the congregation. With this charge as a stepping stone, he
attracted the attention of other churches seeking wise and
strong leadership. Ordained in 1897, his calls to a different
field followed rapidly as follows: To Oliphant Flat Rock, Mat¬
thews, Ga., April 16th, 1898; Smith Grove, Noah, Ga., October
8, 1899; Pine Hill, Burke, November 22, 1901; McElmurray
Spring, Green's Cut, January 4th, 1901; Gumming Grove, Au¬
gusta, May 13th, 1902; Mt. Horeb, Matthews, Ga., July 13th,
1904; Macedonia, Augusta, September, 1904; Bottsford, Sep-
175
tember 17th, 1905; Thompson Bridge, July 12th, 1908, and
Magnolia, November 14th, 1908.
Of the churches mentioned a'bove, Richmond Hill, Mt.
Horeb and Thompson Bridge was organized by Rev. Jones. It
would require more space than we can give to tell the whole
story of the improvements made at several of these churches
where he served for a number of years.
Cumming Grove, under his administration, was almost en¬
tirely rebuilt, and also Macedonia, Augusta. As a church
worker he is zealous, a very successful financier, and a very
bold defender of whatever he believes is best for the good of
the churches under his care.
Rev. Jones re-entered Walker Baptist Institute in 1902
and came in three months of graduation when he yielded to the
increasing weight of his pastoral duties, and gave up further
studies.
This sketch, already longer than the average, cannot be
rightly concluded unless we also mention the fact that this
young man has been for a number of years one of the leading
members of the Executive Board of Walker .Baptist Associa¬
tion. In performing any known duty and in bringing things to
pass he is simply a hustler that expect no defeat, a strong
preacher who commands a large following, and with all the
vigor that accompanies young manhood, he is still in the way
of large and substantial promotions.
His wife, who was Miss Mattie Carr before her marriage,
is to him a great helper in the development of the charges over
which the Holy Ghost was made him overseer.
REV. S. W. H. MURRAY, AUGUSTA.
Rev. Solomon W. H. Murray, Secretary of the Sub-Board
of the Walker Baptist Association, is one of the few men born
and reared in the city who has come to prominence in the body.
Most of the men in control of the Walker Baptist Institute
was born in some remote country district, before those places
felt the influence of city life and culture.
176
REV. G. W. HARRISON,
Trustee of Walker Baptist Association.
He was 'born in Augusta, Richmond County, September
ioth, 1868. His first teacher was one Rev. A. A. Johnson,
who conducted a private school. Under him young Solomon
made such rapid progress that he was soon able to assist his
teacher in class work. Leaving school at an early age, he
took up brick masonry as a trade; and for this particular line
of work he seemed to have been specially adapted. He has
contracted and built some of the finest houses in his home
city, as well as other places.
In 1886 he was united in holy wedlock with Miss Mary
E. Nelums by Dr. C. T. Walker, and to that union eleven
children were born, but only three survive.
He was converted and baptized by Dr. C. T. IW'alker into
the fellowship of Tabernacle Baptist Church, in 1889, and
served as a deacon for seven years, finally entering the min¬
istry, being licensed to preach in July, 1892. He took theology
under his pastor, Dr. C. T. Walker, and later spent a few
months at the Atlanta Baptist College.
He was ordained and called to the pastorate of the Geth-
semane Baptist Church of Augusta, in 1886, which church he
served for twelve years. For that congregation he erected a
neat little house of worship, and baptized about one hundred
and twenty-five happy , souls. He was next called to the St.
John Church, in the same city, and served both of these
churches at the same time. The Harrison Spring B-aptist
Church of Harrison, Ga., was the next church to secure the
services of this young man. During his pastorate there he
also served the Union Hill Baptist Church at Tennille. Both
of these churches he served for four years, but on account
of their distance from Augusta, he resigned and was soon
afterwards called to New Springfield, Burke County, where,
during four years services, he baptized more than one hun¬
dred souls.
He resigned the last named church in iqo6, to accept a call
to the Williams iGrove Church, Rogers, Ga. In the veai 1907,
he was called to the Mt. Horeb Church, Matthews, Ga. He
177
resigned as pastor of Gethsemane in 1908, in order that more
of his time might be given to St. John Church. At present
he is serving Williams Grove, Rogers; St. John, Augusta, and
Mt. Horeb, .'Matthews, Ga.
As a Trustee of Walker 'Baptist Institute, he is able to
render more than ordinary services which such a position
usually imposes, for he planned and erected the new brick
building of the school, that stood the inspection of the special
architect that was sent b}'- the Home Mission Society to test
the work. He is in every way interested in all that concerns
the educational as well as the religious welfare of his race.
If you would know him as a minister, review his record
as pastor of some of the best churches in the bounds of the
Walker as well as other Associations.
REV. CHARLIE J. JONES, "WAYNESBORO, GA.
Rev. C. J. Jones, of Waynesboro is a young man who
sprung from among the people in a remote part of Burke
County as a common farmer's son. His parents, Rev. and
Mrs. Joe Jones, have been for many years citizens of Burke
County, and of high standing with both white and colored
of that section of the state. Charlie, the oldest son, of whom
we are to speak, was born A. D., 1870, and early in life be¬
came the pride of the home, and was looked upon as the child
that would eventually bring honor to the family name and
perpetuate it among the best people of this and other states.
As a student in the public schools he was studious, and soon
evidenced a fitness to be sent away to a school of higher learn¬
ing. He was a man quite of age before he entered Walker
Baptist Institute, where for five years he followed the course
of studies laid down for the students of that institution. In
the meantime he taught school, which profession he followed
until he entered the ministry and his duties as a pastor of
some of the most prominent churches forced him to give up
the school room altogether.
He was converted and baptized into the fellowship of the
Antioch Baptist Church of Burke County, May, 1889, by Rev.
178
G. W. Conner, and immediately began to take a prominent
part in church work. He was licensed to preach at that
church A'. D., 1896, but in 1900 he united with the Thankful
Baptist Church of Waynesboro, and was ordained to me work
of the Gospel ministry in 1901, by Br. W. G. Johnson.
Since entering upon the work of the ministry he has pas-
tored the following churches: Second 'Antioch of Noah Eben-
ezer Association, Magnolia, William Grove, Waynesboro;
Salters Grove, Bartow, and First McCoy, Munnerlyn, Ga. At
present he is serving New Springfield, Alexander; Pine Hill,
Louisville; St. Philip, Swainsboro, and First Baptist Church,
Adrain, Ga. 'Brother Jones is one of the Trustees of Walker
Baptist Institute and one of the leading pastors of the Asso¬
ciation. As a preacher he is a power in the pulpit, and there
is always a great demand for his services.
179
CHAPTER 32.
REV. H. T. TAYLOR, WADLEY, GA.
Rev. H. T. Taylor, the subject of this sketch, was born
near Wadley, Jefferson County, Ga., A. D., 1869. He has had
no educational advantages and yet he has proven himself to
be an able and energetic worker. He was baptized into the
membership of the San Cliir Baptist Church in 1886, by Rev.
J. J. Davis, and faithfully and untiringly he served as a deacon
for three years, much to the satisfaction of the entire mem¬
bership. He was licensed to preach by Rev. T. W. Walker,
and ordained by Rev. H. C. Lane. He pastored at one time
the Macedonia Church, near Summertown in Emanuel Coun¬
ty, and other churches in adjacent counties. That he has
proven himself an able leader no one will dispute if they are
acquainted with his record as a Christian.
As a missionary of Walker Sunday School Convention, he
is giving entire satisfaction. The people of San Clair were
led by him to purchase a very valuable tract of land, worth
more than a thousand dollars. He is steadily forging his way
to the front, not because he is a man of learning, but rather
because he is a Christian.
He works unceasingly as if the cause of Christ would utterly
fail without his efforts. It is not easy to find a man who is
more devoted and consecrated than he to the work of the
Master, and whose sympathy is broader along benevolent
lines.
OTHER MEN WITH BRIGHT FUTURES.
Rev. E. J. Whitehead—This man is a quiet minister and
farmer. He has been in the pastorate a number of years and
firmly believes in hard work and no boasting as necessary
essentials to the greatest success. He resides at Woodcliffe,
Ga., and is pastor of Rocky Ford Church.
Rev. M. B. Buxton, of Munnerlyn, Ga., one of the older pas¬
tors, a farmer on a large scale and pastor of Cochran Grove
in the Walker Association and several other churches in other
Associations.
180
Rev. W. H. Lacy, of Green's Cut, the pastor of Allen
Chapel, is one of the true and tried of our number.
Rev. R. A. Harmon, Louisville, Ga., is the pastor of the
Solomon Temple Church. This man is quiet, but a more con¬
secrated man is not to be found among the brethren.
Rev. H. C. Carswell, Waynesboro, Ga., is the pastor of
one of our oldest churches (Smith Grove), and while not a
member of Walker Association, he is a faithful pastor and
is fully interested in the work of the body.
Walter S. Dickerson, Millen, Ga., is a young man who
has had various charges, both in the Walker and other Asso¬
ciations. He is a splendid preacher and is acceptable to almost
any people.
Rev. J. L. Lowry, Louisville, Ga., is one of our young
and successful pastors.
Rev. J. H. Evans, Augusta, Ga., lately became a pastor in
the Walker Association. He serves Bottsford Church, one of
the oldest in the Association.
Rev. E. C. Williams, Waynesboro, Ga., is a young man
and is the beloved pastor of Williams Grove Church.
Rev. J. M. Sapp, Perkins, Ga., is pastor of Carswell Grove.
He is one of the most prominent pastors of the rural districts.
Brother Sapp makes no pretense to be learned in the delivery
of his sermons, but he is logical and witty. Several times he
has preached leading sermons before the body, and every ef¬
fort was a great success and raised him higher in the estima¬
tion of all who heard him.
Rev. W. F. Brown, Millen, Ga., is a teacher, farmer and
preacher. A young man full of zeal for the Master's kingdom.
Rev. E. W. Burke, Augusta, Ga., is yet a young man. He
left the farm in Burke County, and came into prominence al¬
most at one bound. He is now pastoring some of our best
churches, and while a great preacher, he is one of the most
meek men among us.
Rev. Thomas H. Holmes, Augusta, Ga., is the pastor of the
Gethsemane Church in his home city and also Harts Grove
Church, Spread, Ga.
181
Rev. M. H. Heyward, Evans, Ga., is not a member of the
Walker Association, but for a number of years has pastored
Mt.- Olive Church in Columbia County.
Rev. L. W. Kelsey, Millen, Ga., is a young man just en¬
tering prominently into the pastorate. He comes from that
large and prominent family of Kelseys who played such a
noble part in the building up of a strong association.
Note: in closing these brief sketches of our leaders, the
field has not been fully covered. There are a great host of
deacons and laymen whose influence has been felt in the work
accomplished, and who deserve the respect of all men. They
are scattered here and there in different parts of our bounds.
As I write the names of scores of them come to me, but as
I do not know them so well as the ministers, to mention a few
of them and fail to mention others, would create the suspicion
that the writer was partial.
Some one may judge that we have paid too great a tribute
to the labors of some men whom they may think undeserving,
but the answer I give is simply this: that it is hard in this
critical age in which we live to give any man full credit for
his achievements. As time passes and larger fields of useful¬
ness open up, those who are now just coming on the field may
get inspiration from the lives of the retiring soldiers, and reach
forth for greater things, which the future ages is bound to un¬
fold.
"Jfe
CHAPTER 33.
OUR FALLEN HEROES—THEIR LIFE WORK AND
ACHIEVEMENTS.
"I heard a voice from Heaven saying unto me, Write,
blessed are the dead, which die in the Lord; from henceforth
ye saith the spirit they may rest from their labor and their'
works do follow them." Rev. 14:13.
REV. JESSE J. DAVIS.
Rev. Jesse J. Davis, the subject of this sketch, was a na¬
tive of Georgia, reared in the County of Jefferson, where dur¬
ing his long period of years, did his most earnest and effective
work. He was about 45 years of age at the time of his death,
in 1891. No man was so prominent in the Association from
the beginning of his ministry than he. His presence always
brought sunshine among the brethren everywhere. He being
born a slave, was not highly educated, but he possessed a
gifted mind. He was brave and courageous, and exceedingly
zealous in good works.
Brother Davis preached at nearly all the meetings of the
Associations, and, in fact, he was one of the "big men" among
the brethren. His most prominent charges were St. Paul
Baptist Church, Louisville, Ga.; Harts Grove 'Baptist Church,
Spread, Ga., and Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Atlanta, Ga. He
organized Harts Grove and served it until he accepted a call
to Atlanta. His pastorate in Atlanta was brief, lasting only
a few years, when he was called in 1891 from labor to re¬
ward. He is resting under the shade of the trees at Harts
Grove Church, but his names lives on to inspire those who
knew him as a father, pastor and friend.
REV. ISAAC THOMAS.
Rev. Thomas was one of the fathers. He was not wide¬
ly known, for his was foundation work. Those of us who
183
can still remember when our preachers relied solely upon the
spirit of God in preaching can draw some idea of the manner
and character of this maa, who knew but little of books, 'but
was fully acquainted with God and thoroughly imbued with
a sense of his "high calling." His field of usefulness was
limited, but he wrought we!ll in his day, having stood like a
sentinel guarding the interest of the Association and the
other work over which "the Holy Ghost made him overseer."
He died full ripe in years, leaving to unborn generations a
rich legacy and of zeal for the Master.
REV. ALFRED YOUNG.
The subject of this sketch is among the worthies who
during the early years of the Association began to practice
those principles of brotherly kindness, which today are so
evident and inspiring at all of the meetings of the Associa¬
tion. Born November 14, 1832, he grew up in the school of
adversity.
He married Mrs. Mary Walker in October, 1854, and to
that glorious union a long line of worthy sons and daughters
were born. He was modest and unassuming, but was emi¬
nently successful in the pastorate. His life was a very use¬
ful one. Today his name lives among the members of Ways
Grove Church, Stellaville, even though he has been suc¬
ceeded by men of much greater intellectual strength. He
also served Pine Hill and St. Clair with great success.
Brother Young was with old men, a councilor and to young
men a father. He was an example of what real Christian
character can achieve, even in the absence of a great and
powerful intellect. At the time of his death, March 6, 1884,
he was serving Ways 'Grove and Pine Hill Baptist Churches.
His noble wife still lives, though feeble by age; is still keep¬
ing time to the music by which the noble sons of noble fathers
are still marching on to greater achievements.
184
REV. JOSEPH A. WALKER.
Rev. J. A. Walker was born the worthy son of worthy-
parents. His father, Rev. Peter W'alker, was the first Mod¬
erator of the Association. His mother, Eliza Walker, will
long be remembered for her steady exemplary character.
Rev. Walker was born near Hephzibah, Ga. He was reared
in a Christian home, and inherited a large measure of that
intelligence which in after years gave him such a prominent
place among the Christian educators of this and other states.
After attending the public schools of Richmond County, he
persued a higher course at the Augusta Institute, now the
Atlanta Baptist College. Coming out of the school of At¬
lanta, he began teaching and preaching in the lower part of
the state, where he married.
He was soon called home by his own brethren to asso¬
ciate with Prof. S. Y. Pope in the management of Walker
Baptist Institute, located at that time (1884) at Waynesboro,
Ga. He acted as Principal for one or two terms and moved
the school to Augusta, in 1892, to serve as Assistant Princi¬
pal under Prof. G. A. Goodwin. No man, before or since his
day, has occupied the place among the students, patrons and
all concerned than that was held for the ten years by Prof.
Goodwin. Naturally good natured and jovially endowed
with the ability to bend all of his powers to make his work a
success. He went about doing good, apparently unconscious
of his rare gifts and attainments.
Near the close of the school term, in the spring of 1904-
1905, he was called from labor to reward, leaving a gloom
to overshadow the school and community, where his best ef¬
forts had been spent.
REV. T. J. HORNSBY, MODERATOR.
Rev. Thomas Jefferson Hornsby, who died November
10, 1902, while Moderator of the Walker Baptist Association,
was the son of Samuel and Rachel Hornsby. He was born
185
a slave, and was reared under influences that shape a noble
and useful life. He became prominent in educational and
religious work early in life, and by hard study under limited
advantages, he became a prominent public school teacher.
Ere long he entered the ministry and for several years pas-
tored churches and taught school at the same time.
About i877*he was elected Clerk of the Association, and
served for six consecutive years until 1884, when he was
elected as Moderator to succeed Rev. Nathan Walker, who
had served fifteen years, and declined re-election. Under the
administration of Rev. Hornsby, the" Association opened up
anew its campaign against ignorance; the school at Waynes¬
boro took on new life and the fathers, as well as the sons,
joined heartily in the efforts of this young leader to raise the
moral, spiritual and intellectual standard among the people.
Some of his most prominent charges were Palmer Grove,
Green's Cut, Ga.; Smith Grove, Noah, Ga.; Franklin Cove¬
nant, Hephzibah, Ga. ;W'ays Grove, Stellaville, iGa.; Spring
Hill, Blythe, Ga.; Antioch, Augusta, Ga.; Mt. Morah, Ap¬
pling, Ga.; Solid Rock, Columbia County; Stamp Branch,
near Warrenton, Ga., and the First Baptist Church, Greens¬
boro, Ga. As a pastor he was all that the term implied. He
was almost the idol of his followers. His power was in his
wisdom, meekness and character. As a Moderator he was a
born parliamentarian, and yet he exercised such wisdom and
discretion in the use of that knowledge until a weaker brother
enjoyed his reproof.
Rev. Hornsby confined his chief'efforts to that part of
the state known as the teiritory of the Walker IBaptist Asso¬
ciation, though he took some interest in State and National
work.
His first marriage was to Miss Charlotte Campfield, with
whom he lived for a number of years, and to which union
several children were born.
Only two of that noble family of children survived him,
a son, Walter by name, and a daughter, Rachel, both of whom
186
by their honorable lives are doing honor to the family name.
His second marriage was to Miss Annie Hannah, October
25, 1888, and to that union one child was born, but it lived
only a few weeks. His last wife survived him only a few
months.
To his brethren in the ministry, Rev. Hornsby was a
friend and councilor, who saved many from shipwreck. His
body rests with kinfolks and loved ones at Spring Hill Bap¬
tist Church, Blythe, Ga., of which he was a member and
where the spring time of his life made its early impress on
the world.
Walker Baptist Institute will carry for many years the
marks of his energy and superior wisdom. Beneath the shade
of trees at Spring Hill Baptist Church his body rests , in the
embrace of Mother Earth, resting not only from personal
struggles with a depraved nature, but also from the labor in¬
volved in making for himself an imperishable name.
187
CHAPTER 34.
REV. ALEXANDER I. IRVING, HEPHZIBAH.
If we think of the brief but interesting career of this
young man, we are reminded how rapidly some of us live out
our allotted time and pass into that great beyond just as we
are fixing for the achievement of great things. Rev. Irving
had no famous ancestry. Among his friend and playmates
on the plantation he was simply plain Alec, the son of John
and Easter Irving. Just as he was springing into manhood
he 'became associated with such young men as Rev. C. T.
Walker, Joseph A. Walker and others, whose parents and
guardians had planned great things for them. The attach¬
ment was a happy one, for it consecrated him to a life of use¬
fulness, to the joy and satisfaction of his aged but devoted
parents.
Passing through the public schools, he followed his
chosen companions away to the Augusta Institute and spent
just enough time there to, inspire him for higher usefulness.
He was married to Miss Mary Ann Johnson, daughter of
Deacon Gilbert and Frances Johnson, and no child blessed
their home until after they had been married about fourteen
years. It was a boy named Alexander, after his father, but
his father died while the boy was yet young, so that the re¬
sponsibility of moulding his character devolved upon the
mother. This boy, at an early age, joined the church and
entered the ministry, rising rapidly to prominence only to be
cut off by death before reaching manhood. Rev. Irving
taught public school for a number of years and finally en¬
tered the ministry, having been called to ordination by his
election to the pastorate of Adams Grove Baptist Church,
.Gracewood, Ga. He afterwards became pastor of Franklin
Covenant Baptist 'Church, Hephzibah, Ga., of which he was
a member, and died while pastor. He rests from his labors
and his works do follow him.
188
REV. NATHAN WALKER, MODERATOR.
•Rev. Nathan Walker, known as the father of Walker As¬
sociation, was born in Richmond County, A. D., 1819, on the
25th day of July. The following sketch from Kilpatrick's
History of Hephzibah Association, tells the best story of his
early life as seen by the scrutinizing eye of a white brother
who knew him personally:
"At the time of emancipation of the Southern slaves, in
1865, and their consequent withdrawal from the churches in
which they had hitherto lived, no one was so generally recog¬
nized as a leader among the negroes in the bounds of the
Hephzibah Association as Nathan Walker. No one more
thoroughly prepared and commanded the confidence of both
the white and the colored members. He was pre-eminently
conservative in matters both civil and religious, guarded in
actions, prudent in speech, yet courteous and respectful to
all. The whites, without'any misgivings, could advise and
co-operate with him; his own race, without hesitation,, yielded
to his suggestions. Rev. Nathan Walker has not confined
his labors to the interest of his people exclusively, but has
been an active participant in whatever would promote either
their educational interests or improve their morals. It was-
chiefly through his efforts that the funds were raised for
establishing Walker High School at Waynesboro, and like¬
wise largely through his efforts that the negroes generally
in this section were stimulated to avail themselves of the
school privileges which were afforded by the state.
"But his most remarkable success has been in his efforts
to lead his people to vote against the retail of intoxicating
liquors whenever the question was before the public, and
more especially when it was before them in Burke County.
It is true that this success was not attributable to his efforts
alone, as other ministers of his race, both Baptists and
Mehodists were abundantly zealous in the prohibition cause,
but he was the leader among them. He was baptized by
Rev. Joseph Polhill at Piney Grove in October, 1843. He
was in the organization of Franklin Covenant Church [col-
189
ored) in 1849 > was ordained to the ministry in 1866 by LouK
Carter and Henry Watts." These beautiful words is a far
better description of that noble life that made such an im¬
press on the now brilliant leaders of the Association.
After retiring from the Moderatorship of the Associa¬
tion in 1884, it was the pleasure of the brethren to honor him
as father, councilor and relic of the struggles of receeding
years. His last days were spent going around from church to
church, leaning heavily on his staff, and encouraging the
younger men, upon whom the success of the Association and
the denomination depended. He died and was fouried near
Waynesboro, A. D., 1906, leaving behind him a spotless name
that will be mentioned and revered even after the present
generation is passed to the great beyond.
REV. HARRY M. WILLIAMS, LOUISVILLE.
This young man, the son of the late Rev. Lewis Wil¬
liams, was small in physique, but he was almost an intellec¬
tual giant. His delicate frame increased the possibilities of
an early and untimely death, which was always feared by
those who watched the rapidity with which he persued his
course as an untiring educator and minister of the Gospel.
After leaving school he located in Jefferson County,
where he served as pastor Pine Hill, Eden and Springfield
Churches. His career was brief but brilliant. Perhaps no
young man withstood as much opposition at times as he, for
the reason that he took an active part in politics, especially
local politics, that effected so many of the members of his
own congregations. His strength as a preacher of no mean
ability, his eloquence and courage made him victor in almost
every struggle. He had faults like other men, but the churches
he pastored forgave them and loved him to the day of his
death. He was bold and courageous to the end, having died
in full consciousness of the glory that awaited him as a faith¬
ful minister of Jesus Christ.
190
CHAPTER 35.
REV. ROBERT KELSEY, MILLEN.
Rev. Robert Kelsey was born in the days of slavery,
about A. D., 1822, and lived out his full three-score years and
ten. He was about 14 years of age when he united with Lit¬
tle Buckhead 'Church in Burke 'County, about three miles
northeast of the town of IMillen. He remained a consistent
member of that church until 1869, when he moved his mem¬
bership to Needful Church. He was ordained to the work of
the Gospel ministry at Needful Church by Revs. W. L. Kil-
patrick and McRoe. After his ordination he was called to the
pastorate of the church, and served in that capacity ten years.
During that constructive period when colored churches were
being organized here and there in rapid succession, Rev. Kel¬
sey was for one year a missionary in the bounds of Walker
Association.
His first wife was named Peggie, and they lived together
twenty-five years, then death claimed her and left him for a
longer life of usefulness. After the death of his first wife he
was married to Miss Millie Murphey, and after a few years
death claimed her also. His list wife, Miss Jensie Wadley,
survived him.
After living past the days of usefulness in the ministry,
he died at the ripe age of 74, November 28th, 1896. The
reader will understand that any effort to tell of the great good
accomplished by this father in Israel, would be an injustice
for the reason that we have no detailed account of any of his
accomplishments and, theiefore, cannot give a full story of
his life. From what we can hear now of him as pastor of one
of our oldest churches, we are sure that he did a good work
for his people and his God.
REV. JAMES KELSEY.
We have no record of this man's life. He was a member
of Smith Grove Church and lived quite a number of years at
Waynesboro, Ga. He was highly esteemed in the Walker
191
Baptist Church, but was never in the pastorate. He died A.
D., 1886, at the close of a life that was characterized for its
unyielding faith in God a&d devotion for the uplift of his
race.
REV. ANDREW WILKERSON.
Rev. Andrew Wilkerson was one of the most powerful
preachers of his day. He spent many years preaching the
Gospel in Burke, Jefferson, Richmond and Jenkins Counties.
He was in the midst of his strength between the years of
1870 and 1890, but began to fail in health later in life and died
quietly among a few friends in the summer of 1897, leaving
a wife and several children to mourn his loss. In the course
of his life he experienced some rough sailing, for he could
draw thousands from many miles around to hear him preach.
He won churches and swayed them at will as he preached, but
was never a very successful pastor. He was a born revivalist,
with a clear and charming voice, tall in stature and almost
dramatic in gesture. He captured men and women who were
absolutely powerless to resist. As we write of him with no
other record except what is written in our own memory, we
are reminded that he pastored some of the most prominent
charges in Burke and Jefferson Counties. He founded Eden
Baptist Church, near Louisville, Ga., was with her in her
three years fight for admission into the Association. For
years to come the name of Rev. Wilkerson will be on the lips
of those whom he baptized and helped in many other ways.
PROF. SIMPSON Y. POPE.
Prof. S. Y. Pope was (born near Ridge Springs, S. C., in
1859, and spent his boyhood days* in his native state. He
came to Georgia while quite young and settled in Jefferson
County, where, after a short while, he was converted and bap¬
tized into the fellowship of St. Clair Baptist Church, near St.
Clair, Ga.
Almost at one bound he became actively engaged in.
church work, devoting a large portion of his time to the work
192
ANTIOCH BAPTIST CHURCH, AUGUSTA,
Rev. J. W. Whitehead, Pastor.
of gathering the young into the Sunday School. He attended
the Augusta Institute under Rev. Joseph T. Roberts, D. D.,
LL.D. From this school he received most of his education.
After leaving school he began teaching in the public schools,
and after a few years experience was given first grade license.
His first marriage was to Miss Lula Wright, of Stella-
ville, iGa., but this union was of short duration, for Miss
Wright lived only a few years. His next marriage was to
iMiss Flora Wright, and she, too, preceded him to glory.
As Father Nathan Walker is to be remembered as the
father of Walker Baptist Association and promoter of Walker
Baptist Institute. So Prof. Pope must go down as the prime
mover in the creation and organization of the Evesville Sun¬
day School Convention. He became the Assistant Clerk of
Walker Baptist Association in 1887, and succeeded to the first
place in 1888. For seven years he was not only the faithful
Clerk- of the Association, but was also Principal of Walker
High School at W'aynesboro. His health having failed him,
he was not retained as Principal of the School after 1890,
He was President of the Evesville Sunday School Con¬
vention at the time of his death, though the strain of looking
after this work, that was at that time none too popular with
the older brethren, greatly taxed his declining strength. It
is of some interest to be reminded that Prof. Pope died at
Waynesboro in 1894, and the very next year Prof. J. A. Wal¬
ker, so long associated with him in the management of Wal¬
ker High School at Waynesboro, died also.
If any man whose name must appear on these pages is
sacred to the memory of the church workers of Walker Asso¬
ciation, then surely no Sunday School worker will forget the
man who fought his way through the ranks of formidable
foes to win for the Sunday Schools of the Association suffi¬
cient independence to enable them to hold a separate and dis¬
tinct annual meeting from the mother organization.
Pope is now resting from the labor of several years of
the most painful suffering, not an affliction of the natural man
only, but an affliction that aggravated his soul on account of
193
the stubborn opposition encountered as he attempted many
things which he regarded the plain and indispensable duty of
a thoroughly awakened people.
REV. ALEXANDER STEPHEN WRIGHT.
The name of Rev. A. S. Wright occurs so often in this
book until it has rendered a long sketch here unnecessary.
He was born in 1854, near Noah, Jefferson County, Ga.., and
lived on the farm until he reached full manhood. He studied
at night during those years when any other course would
have been criminal, and in some way obtained a fair knowl¬
edge of books. He entered the Augusta Institute in 1876, and
in 1879 started on his career as a public school teacher. We
are not sure that it is peculiar to the race, but it appears after
a careful searching of the records, that almost without excep¬
tion, the men who have amounted to something as ministers
were first public school teachers.
In 1875 he was converted and baptized into the fellow¬
ship of Smith Grove 'Baptist Church by Rev. Alfred Young,
and soon afterwards entered the ministry. He was ordained
in the fall of 1878, and started to traveling here and there
improving his gift as occasion permitted. He pastored several
churches, and finally resigned them all to accept a position as
State Missionary under the auspices of the Missionary Bap¬
tist Convention of Georgia. As a member of the Association
he was always regarded as one of the leaders. At all times
he was ready to speak out on all questions touching the best
interest of the body.
He was married to Miss Frances McNorrell, December,
1881, and several children was born as the result of that union.
He died in 1894, leaving behind him a long record of great
usefulness in the cause of the Master.
194
CHAPTER 36.
ALFRED L. BYRD, HARLEM.
Rev. A. L. Byrd was a young man of some considerable
ability. He was for a number of years one of the young men
who associated with the older brethren in building up the
Walker Association. His name occurs frequently among the
leaders as a preacher of no mean ability. He lost his health
while quite young, but continued to preach to the end. He
was not widely known beyond the territory of his own Asso¬
ciation, but in it he was as constant and faithful as his frail
body allowed.
Among the important charges held by him were Poplar
Head, Dearing, Ga.; Piney Grove, Dearing, Ga., and New
Berry. He was a faithful member of Ways Grove Baptist
Church and a safe pastor. Brother Byrd attended the Au¬
gusta Institute under Dr. Joseph Roberts, and was among the
students who advertised that school in the country districts.
He departed this life at Harlem, Ga., his home, A. D., 1895,
leaving a host of friends to mourn his departure.
REV. H. H. OWENS, AUGUSTA.
Rev. H. H. Owens had a very bri'ef career as a minister
of the Gospel. He rose rapidly in the ministry from a plain
working man to a position as one of the prominent pastors of
the Walker Association. For a number of years he was a
great assistance to other pastors, being one of God's willing
servants. He was finally called to the pastorate of Pine Hill
Church, Burke County, and there put in some noble work for
his Master. He was. a member of the Antioch Baptist Church
and one of her best preachers.
While enroute to Atlanta, Ga., on a preaching tour he
stopped off at Conyers, and there, after rending a last service
for his Master, he was taken suddenly sick and died before
he could be reached by friends or family. So while Brother
Owens sleeps among strangers in a distant little Georgia town,
I95
he awaits in a better land the coming of those from whom he
was parted without warning.
BROTHER BACKUS WATKINS.
^Brother Watkins was only a licensed preacher at the time
of his death, he having served his church for a number of
years in the capacity of a deacon before he entered upon the
work of the Gospel ministry. He was one of the founders of
McKinnie Branch Church, and also one of the founders of
Walker Association. As a deacon of his church, he was faith¬
ful to every duty, for to his personal effort his church had to
largely depend. Brother Watkins made such an impression
upon the brethren of the Association until his name is never
forgotten when we are called upon to remember our sacred
dead. lie left behind him a family who can with pride point
to the record he made as cne worthy of emulation.
REV. HENRY WALKER, BLYTHE.
The subject of this sketch was born in Jefferson County,
October 15th, 1832, and developed into one of the greatest
among the fathers who laid the foundation of Walker Asso¬
ciation. When quite young he was converted and baptized
into the fellowship of the Franklin Covenant Church, near
Hephzibah, Ga., by his father, Rev. Joseph Walker. Even
before emancipation he learned to read the one Book that was
the pride of the home and guiding star that led almost the
entire family to aspire to noble things. He also entered the
ministry at Covenant, and was ordained from that church
shortly after emancipation.
About the year 1849 was united in holy wedlock with
Miss Hannah Parker, with whom he lived until they were
separated by the Great Reaper. Several children blessed that
union, the most prominent among them being Rev. T. W.
Walker, who for a number of years was a prominent mem¬
ber of the Walker Association.
196
In 1865 he was married to Miss Martha A. Hornsby, and
for twenty years they lived happily together, being blessed
with a large family of children, who have since developed into
noble men and women. The children living as the result of
this union are as follows: Mrs. Maria M. Parker, Rev. S. C.
Walker, B. D., Deacon William White Walker, Mrs. Rachel
T. Briggs, Solomon Walker, Thomas J. Walker and Mrs. F.
Alberta Evans, all of Augusta, Ga., and all filling some posi¬
tion of honor and trust, either in the religious or business
world.
He founded the Spring Hill Baptist Church at Blythe,
Ga., in 1871, and became its pastor after the organization. For
nine years he served this church, bringing it up to a high
moral standard, and giving it an unquestioned standing among
the best churches of that community. While serving Spring
Hill he was also the much beloved pastor of St. Clair Church
at St. Clair, Ga. In 1880 he resigned Spring Hill and moved
to Munnerlyn, Ga., where he engaged in farming. After five
years he resolved to return to that section from whence he
had moved, and whether 01 not he foresaw his early death we
cannot say, but it is true that he lived only a few months after
his return. He died March 12th, 1885, and left to mourn his
departure a devoted wife and several children.
Considering his advantages, he accomplished much for
the Walker Association and the Baptist family as well. Long
live the memory of this great man; in fact, he is still living
in those noble sons and daughters who are living worthy
, lives. His widow remarried after his death, but she died
several years ago in the full triumph of faith.
JOHN T. SMITH.
Rev. John T. Smith was born July 28th, 1872, in Burke
County. As a boy he attended the public schools, making
commendable progress at the beginning as a student who was
full worthy of the best efforts of his teachers.
He was converted and baptized into the fellowship of the
Smith Grove .Baptist Church, Noah, Ga., by Rev. T. J. Horns-
197
by, August, 1886. He entered the ministry and was ordained
A. D., 1895, by the same man who baptized him nine years
before. He entered Walker Baptist Institute under Prof. G.
A. Goodwin, and was one of the first graduates of that school.
As a graduate he stood not only at the head of his class at the
graduating exercises, but wherever he went he was a very
brilliant representative of that school. On. many occasions
after his graduation, when the Principal was forced to be away
from his post, Brother Smith supplied for him to the satis¬
faction of all concerned.
Smith Grove, his own church, recognizing his ability as a
preacher of rare attainments, called him to her pastorate in
1895, and this call gave him prestige. In 1896 he was called
to the pastorate of the Eden Baptist Church, Louisville, Ga.,
to succeed Dr. W. G. Johnson, and later both of the above
named churches called him for an indefinite period.
November 24th, 1897, he was married to Miss Janie M.
Thomas, and to that union one girl was born (Julia IMozella),
who is now not only a Christian, but a faithful member of the
Ways Grove Church.
He was made Principal of the Louisville, Ga., colored
school, which was afterwards developed into the Louisville
Academy. His marriage was a happy one, but in less than
three years death ended it all, for on July 28th, 1900, he de¬
parted this life and was burled among his own people at Smith
Grove Church. The early taking away of this very young
man who was so brilliant and promising, was to those who
knew him so favorably another evidence that the ways of God
is past our finding out. Mrs. Thomas, whom he married, was
also a graduate of Walker Baptist Institute, and since his death
she has been continuously on the faculty of that school.
198
CHAPTER 37.
HENRY C. LANE, WAYNESBORO.
The name of Rev. H. C. Lane is of blessed memory, for
he was more than an ordinary man. He lived out a majority
of his years in the County of Burke, where he pastored some
of the best churches in the Walker Association. We tried to
get from some of the members of his family something defi¬
nite as regard his age and early life, but we failed. He was
one of the first men of the Association, and was a man of great
worth to his race and denomination. He was the beloved
pastor of Grays Grove, from its organization until the time
of his death. Among the other churches served by him mdy be
mentioned: Murphey Ebenezer, McKinnie Branch, San Clair
and Job Spring. As a Sunday School worker he had few
equals among the older ministers. For a number of years he
was Vice-President of the Walker Baptist Sunday School Con¬
vention. And while the office of Assistant Moderator was
never created by the Association, he was nevertheless the
recognized assistant.
As a strong and uncompromising Baptist, he defended his
religion everywhere with the boldness of a Paul. There was
hardly a man in his day who were called upon as often as he
to preach memorial sermons at the meetings of the Associa¬
tion. His favorite text was: "I Have Fought a Good Fight."
During his entire ministry, Brother Lane was a busy man,
his services being in constant demand as pastor. One Sunday
morning, at his home church, Grays Grove, before the ser¬
vices were ended, the hand of affliction was laid heavily upon
him, and before another day was over death claimed all that
was mortal of one of the leading men of Walker Association.
He was about the age of 50 at the time of his death.
THOMAS R. GLOVER, AUGUSTA.
Rev. Thomas R. Glover had a very brief career as a min¬
ister, but a long and useful one as a Christian worker. He
199
started his Christian life near Hephzibah, Ga., and after mov¬
ing to Augusta, he became identified with the Antioch Church,
of which the late Rev. T. J. Hornsby was pastor.
He was especially gifted as a teacher in the Sunday
School, and also a great lover of music. When he felt called
of God to the work of the ministry he entered upon that work,
and ere long was called to the pastorate of the Harts Grove
Church at Spread, Ga., to succeed the Rev. J. J. Davis. This
was in 1889, and later still he was called to the Stamp Branch
Church, Warren County, and the Cumming Grove Church,
Augusta, Ga. At these churches he was much honored and
beloved. He, too, had but a brief sickness before he passed
•from time into the Great Beyond.
REV. JOSEPH W. WEAVER, WAYNESBORO.
Rev. J. W. Weaver, who died near the close of 1908, was
one of the great preachers of the Walker Association. He was
a man full grown when he entered the ministry in Burke Coun¬
ty. He was born with a great gift to deliver and impress what¬
ever message he had for his people. He was not in the min¬
istry long before he was honored with many calls to the pas¬
torate of churches. Among the churches served at different
periods of his life were Williams Grove, Rogers, Watkins-
ville, Burke County; San Clair, Wadley; Daniel Grove, Brin-
son Hill, Wadley; Springfield, near Louisville, Ga., and Harts
/Grove, Spread, Ga. We made several fruitless attempts to
get a full sketch of his life from his family and friends, but all
efforts were unavailing. He was a man great in prayer, un¬
compromising in faith, unreserved in expressing his deepest
convictions, a man who willingly retired from any charge
where peace were threatened; liberal, yea! exceedingly lib¬
eral, to the extent of his ability; broad in his conception of
the mission of the church. He actually wore himself in the
performance of his duty. For a long time to come the name
of Joe Weaver, the sound of his stentorian voice will linger in
our memory. He is asleep but not forgotten, and the cer-
200
tainty of his rest will but draw us nearer to the Master, whom
he served and in whose name he died.
For the convenience of the relatives and friends of the
deceased ministers of Walker Association, I have put in tabu¬
lated form the record of the dead as they are recorded in the
Minutes of the Association. In reading this table, however,
it must be remembered that the year of death given in th^
table is the year when it was reported to the Association. It
is easy, then, to see that any brother who might have died
after the meeting of the Association in September of any year
and before the close of that year, may or may not be placed
in the exact calendar year in which that death occurred. In
every case the death occurred some time within the twelve
months preceding September of the year named in the table.
We regret that it was impossible to secure more definite
information, but all through this work we have waded through
difficulties that few would undertake in the preparation of a
work like this:
Name of Deceased.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Prof.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Emanuel Dickersor
Isaac Thomas'
Alfred Young
H en r y Walker
Andrew Johnson...
•Cyrus Kelley
C. 'R. 'Cross
James Kelsey
Backus Wi&tkins...
J. J. Davis
F. Collier
G. W. Dane
Robert Powell
A. I. 'Irving-
A. S. Wiright
H. M. Williams
S. Y. Pope
Joseph A. Walker..
Alfred D. Byrd....
Thomas R. Glover..
C. Jenkins
Andrew Wilkerson.
Robert Kelsey
R. Willis
I. A. McNeal
G. G. Ellison
Edrnond Burton
Jason Hickman
Pine Hill, Jefferson; ;St. Clair, Ways Grove....
3ne of the leading1 lights
Called, (but still with us in spirit
V .good man and full of the Holy Ghost ,..
His lot was among the humble
Like a well-iworn garment, 'he was laid aside
in >a Christian 'grave
One of the first .leaders
Pastoring in Atlanta, Ga
One of the fathers who served well
A Christian gentleman, full of faith
Worthy of our .fondest recollections
Franklin Covenant
State Missionary
Pine Hi.ll, Jefferson; Eden and .Springfield
Clerk and ex-Principal of W. B. J
Professor in Walker Baptist Institute
A life well spent in the pastorate
Cumming Grove, Augusta, Ga
Not widely 'known, tout faithful
A great revivalist
Needful, iMillen, Ga
Respected for his zeal 'in good 'works
Macedonia, Augusta, Ga
Suddenly itaken, tout died like a ihero
One of the fathers of firm convictions
Carswell Grove
1881
1882
1884
1885
1885
1886
188'6
1886
1886
1891
18'91
1892
1892
1893
1894
1894
1894
1895
1895
1896
1896
1897
1897
1897
189.&
1899
1899
1900
201
Name of Deceased.
Churches in Charge of at Time of Death.
Date
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
J. F.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
Rev.
H. H. Owens...
John T. Smith..
D. F. Rice
Cupid 'No'ble
Thomas J. Hornsby
E. Handkerson
Emanuel Kelsey
J. J. Jackson
|R. Whitehead
H. B. "West
Jack Sigger
Samuel McNeal
Nathan "VVilkerson.
Henry >C. Lane
Horace Ports
Dennis Booker
ISipio Pitts
Nathan Walker
Blair, D. D
Joseph W. Weaver,
G. W. Yaney
A. H. Handkerson.
Caesar Proctor....
Rev. J. J. Jenkins.
Pine Hill, Burke. Died away from home...
Smith 'Grove and Eden
A good and great man, full of years
Pair Mount, Richmond County
Ways 'Grove, Stamp Branch, Antioch and
iSolid Rock
As a (preacher invincilble
After hard fighting, rest "was sweet
A 'great 'worker in church
One of the 'greatest among the older ministers:
Called, tout not forgotten
Mighty in prayer
State Missionary
A kind and loving spirit
Munphy Ebenezer, Grays Grove
Sx-'Treasurer of t'he Association
Never in the pastorate, tout a great heiper to
'those who needed :him
Ever faithful to his duty .'
Second [Moderator
Pastor in Brooklyn, N. T
Watkinsville, Daniel Grove and Springfield,
Jefferson
His life was exemplary
One of Cod's little ones
Unsurpassed.' in devotion to the Walker Asso¬
ciation
A "good man full of zeal
1900
1900
1900
1901
1901
1902
1902
1902
1903
1904
1904
1904
1905
1905
1905
1905
1906
190'6
1907
1908
1908
1908
190i9i
1909
202
CHAPTER 38.
BRIEF HISTORY OF CHURCHES.
In attempting to write a brief History of the Churches of
the Walker Association, I am forced to rely absolutely upon
such information as I have been able to get from the present
officers of the various churches; and they are the authority
in each case. The information gathered is not as full as we
would have it, but it appears that many of our churches have
been a little lax in keeping records. The following sketches
will show, however, that they have done well:
BEECH BRANCH.
This church is one of the oldest churches of the Asso¬
ciation, having been organized A. D., 1869. Its first pastor
was Rev. L. B. Carter, who served faithfully, feeding the in¬
fant church with wholesome food until he was succeeded by
Rev. Frank Cooper, another veteran soldier, who, though lim¬
ited in learning, preached Christ with his life. His ministry
was a glorious success. The next pastor was Rev. Moses
Cooper, of the same family who also did much for the up¬
building of the church. Rev. H. P. Ports, who succeeded Rev.
Moses Cooper, was a man of character and ability. He was
prominent in the councils of the Association and his church
stood for all the' objects represented by the body.
Rev. Robert Kelsey succeeded Rev. Ports, and under his
administration Beech Branch began to "enlarge the place of
her tent," and many souls were born on to God. The next in
order was Rev. Steven Sapp. After a short term, he was suc¬
ceeded by Rev. J. M. Sapp, who was then succeeded by Rev.
N. IB. Buxton, and he in time was succeeded by Rev. G. J.
Campbell, the present pastor. It would require several papers
to tell of the souls saved, the money raised, and the great good
accomplished by this old and progressive church during the
thirty-nine years of its existence. To this day, under the
leadership of the every faithful G. J. Campbell, it is one of the
203
strong churches to which the Association can in times of finan¬
cial distress depend.
PINE HILL, JEFFERSON.
This grand old church, organized June, 1868, was one of
those that entered into the organization of the Association and
is entitled to very great consideration, not because of her hoary-
head, but because of her loyalty and devotion to the objects
claiming the attention of the Association. I am deeply in¬
debted to (Miss Emma King, one of the members of this church
and a prominent teacher and worker of the church, for the fol¬
lowing information. Pine Hill has had eight pastors, who
served in the following order: Revs. Wiley Holmes (white),
three years; Alfred Young (first term), six years; Samuel
Grenade, one year; Alfred Young (second term), six years;
Thomas G. Green, two years; Joseph T. Young, six years;
Harry M. Williams (part of), two years; John W. White¬
head, ten years.
Rev. Charlie J. Jones, the present pastor. This church,
besides entertaining other annual meetings related to the Asso¬
ciation, entertained that august body in 1873 and 1885. She
has been a great power for good, as will be recognized when
we note the ability and standing of the men she has had for
leaders as well as the large number of sons and daughters she
has sent forth to bless humanity. The footprints of her sainted
dead leaders are still to be seen and recognized in the work she
is still doing for the Master.
WATKINSVILLE.
Here we come to another one of the older churches, or¬
ganized in 1866 by Rev. Nathan Walker. It is situated in the
County of Burke, and a long line of worthy ministers have
watched over this fold during the forty-two years of its exist¬
ence. Many of them are now resting with the fathers who
cannot witness with human eye the achievements of this
church since their day, but will perhaps be equal sharers in
the glory. Those who have served are as follows: Revs.
204
Robert Whitehead, Andrew W'ilkerson, Thomas Martin,
James Kelsey, Jason Hickman, Horace Ports, Steven Sapp,
Alexander S. Wright, Paul J. Major, A. R. MacKinley, Rich¬
ard Lewis, Kitt Jones, and J. W. Weaver, the present pastor.
Watkinsville has never divided, but stands today as thor¬
oughly united as any people, all working for the glory of
God and the spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Note: Since the above was written Rev. Weaver has died.
KEYS GROVE.
The Keys Grove Baptist Church, near Keysville, was
organized July 24, 1885. She has had only four pastors dur¬
ing the twenty-eight years of her existence. Rev. Grander-
son Singleton was for a number of years the faithful and
much beloved pastor, having baptized a host of faithful
Christians, who still remember his power in the pulpit as an
expounder of the truth. He was succeeded by Rev. James
Campfield, who was known for his faith and good works.
He served for a number of" years. Rev. Wayne H. Irby, "a
brother," well beloved for his piety, succeeded Rev. Camp-
field, but his term of office was of short duration on account
of his declining strength.
Rev. Robert W. Walker, the present pastor, is young,
intelligent and progressive. Under his administration the
church has had unparalleled success, both in soul-saving and
in increasing church property. Keys Grove has been loyal
to the Association and is today. She is well known for her
faithfulness in all things that claim the attention of a Chris¬
tian people.
SAND HILL.
This church is located in Jenkins County, about eight
miles east of Millen. It was organized in 1892, and its first
pastor was Rev. E. Best, who died in 1898. Rev. Benj. Col¬
lins was the next pastor, but he served only a short while.
Rev. C. L. Lawrence was next called and served the church
faithfully until he was succeeded by Rev. B. B. Berrien. This
205
church, under the administration of Rev. Berrien, made many
long strides upward.
Her members made her strong in the council of the As¬
sociation and State, for when the calls were made for help
for any noble cause, Sand Hill always gave a noble response.
For years she took first rank among the churches of the As¬
sociation with a Sunday School second to none. The liber¬
ality and real intelligence shown by this church has not been
surpassed by city churches that have years of training and
enlightenment. Rev. W. Gray Farmer was called to succeed
Rev. Berrien in the fall ot 1908, and under him nobody fears
that its strength will not steadily increase.
SOLID ROCK.
This church is a branch of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church
at Appling, Ga. Rev. T. J. Hornsby organized it in 1889,
and was its popular pastor until the time of his death, No¬
vember 10, 1901. Rev. W. W. Walker succeeded Rev. Horns¬
by and served with satisfaction until January, 1909, when he
was called to another field. This church has a remarkable
history in that it thrived and grew, surrounded by other well
established churches. Following 'her leader, she united with
the Walker Baptist Association and was, therefore, the first
church to come over from that remote portion of our bounds.
Here we have a church born out of the severest affliction,
standing solidly by that Association that hovered her when
her name was under a withering fire.
ST. CLAIR.
The St. Clair Baptist Church, near St. Clair Station, is
located in that part of 'Burke County known for the thous¬
ands of farmers who know no faith but ours. We have not
been able to learn the date of its organization, but it has had
a number of efficient pastors and must be classes among the
older churches of the Association.
206
Among her pastors may be mentioned Revs. Henry Wal¬
ker, E. E. Crumbly, Alfred Young, Fred Boggs, G. W. Con¬
ner, Ed. Young, T. G. Green, C. A. Young, G. Singleton and
A. L. D'Antignac, the present pastor. This church, while not
so situated as to be able to entertain the Association, has en¬
tertained the smaller meetings of the body, and aided magnifi¬
cently in the support of Walker Baptist Institute. Once dur¬
ing its history it was almost dissolved, but one or two mem¬
bers stood the test and ere long the straying sheep returned
to the fold; and today they have a record that the coming
generation will do well to surpass.
FLAT ROCK.
In 1886 this church was organized and started out under
the leadership of Rev. Thomas G. Green. It has had some
noble leaders, but, situated as it is near Matthews, Ga., in
the very hotbed of Pedo-Baptist people, thus its sailing has
been rough. It having had quite a number of pastors during
the twenty-three years of its existence, is positive that from
some source came serious discouragements. From time to
time the following pastors have served: Revs. T. G. Green,
J. T. Young, G. J. Campbell, W. W. Jones, R. W. 'Marshall,
A. L. D'Antignac and W. W. Weaver.
The faithful little band, still true to their iGod, have sur¬
vived the hardship of forgotten years and is destined to ac¬
complish much more good during these times when an ad¬
vancing Baptist host is out taking the world for Christ.
207
CHAPTER 39-
CARSWELL GROVE.
This church was organized shortly after the dawn of free¬
dom, A. D., 1886. It is one of those who sat in the council
that shaped the policy of the Association and played well her
part in moulding a healthy sentiment in favor of higher edu¬
cation for the negro. No scribe can paint the achievements
of this now aged and noble band. There is no record of those
ordeals that tested the strength and tried the faith of its
founders, except the visible fruit of saved souls and the en¬
listed array of magnificent men and women in every walk of
life whose hearts were touched at her altar.
Revs. Emanuel Dickerson, N. Walker, J. C. Hickman and
J. M. Sapp constituted the number of her pastors. The first
three, noted for piety, were not small men. They wrought
well in their day and fell on sleep at a "ripe old age," leaving
behind them the records of lives well spent, which, <ifter all,
is the most enduring monument.
No ■ church in Burke County has surpassed Carswell
Grove in giving substantial support and tangible evidence of
her faith in the ultimate triumph of those principles, for which
the Association stands. Twice within these years the Asso¬
ciation has held its annual meetings there. The devotion of
her members is* something remarkable when it is remembered
that though they are hundreds, Rocky Ford is the only church
that has gone out from her during these forty-three years.
FRIENDSHIP.
This church is in Jenkins County, three miles west of
Millen. It was organized the third Sunday in May, 1882. She
has had six pastors. Rev. A. J. Walker served two years; Rev.
H. C. Lane served six months; Rev. W. H. iBessent served
twelve years, and Rev. J. M. Sapp is the present pastor. All
of these are living except Rev. H. C. Lane.
208
REV. G. S. KILPATRICK,
Pastor Gordon Hill.
Friendship has always had intelligent leadership and has
been a mighty power for good in that community. Her mem¬
bers are faithful and intelligent, missionary in spirit, and con¬
secrated to the cause of education. Father Nathan Walker
was never at any time pastor of this church, but he had great
interest in it until his death. Great, indeed, must be the work
of the fathers who went about organizing in the remote places
these now splendid churches who are more abundant in works
than in years.
MT. OLIVE, COLUMBIA COUNTY.
This church is located in Columbia County,, and was or¬
ganized in June, 1889. It is an important addition to the As¬
sociation for the reason that it practically opens up a new
territory. Its fifst pastor was Rev. MacNeal, a man of
high standing and great worth to the Baptist denomination
throughout the entire state. Nothing can betray the aspira¬
tions of any people better than the fact that they employ
worthy and eminent leaders; such a man was he. Mt. Olive
came into the Association determined to link her destiny with
that of many others of her sister churches, whose highest aim
was to accomplish something worthy of the day and genera¬
tion in which they lived. Until Mt. Olive united with the As¬
sociation, its bounds did not stretch very far beyond Augusta
westward. The loyalty 01 this church to the Association of
its choice is, to say the least, remarkable in the face of the fact;
that there are other Associations whose territory embrace all
that immediate vicinity where it is located. Rev. I. A. Mac¬
Neal. was the second pastor. He served the church until the
day of his death, 1899. Under his administration the church
enjoyed great prosperity, both as to the saving of souls and
the building up of an intelligent constituency. The failing
health-of Rev. MacNeal and his inability to perform the duties
leadership involved, greatly discouraged the people for a sea¬
son, but they soon found in Rev. M. H. Haygood, third pastor,
an invincible leader, entirely equal to the task. This church
209
is destined to become one of the leading churches of the As¬
sociation. May God increase its usefulness, broaden its field
for His own glory, and for the elevation of all about her.
JAMES GROVE.
This church was organized about 1891 by Rev. E. Bur¬
ton. It is located in the County of Johnson. Rev. Burton, the
first pastor, may be classed with the fathers. He possessed a
sterling character, was exceedingly outspoken, and always
anxious to accomplish something great. If the growth in mem¬
bership since its organization, eighteen years ago, be compared
with that of other and more prominent churches, it will be seen
that she has made a commendable progress. Rev. Joe Walker
succeeded Rev. Burton; of him the writer knows but little.
Rev. C. T. King, one of the most progressive young men, the
old "battle axe" of Jefferson County, the staunch and undying
friend of Walker Baptist Institute, succeeded Rev. Joe Wal¬
ker. Under his administration the church saw and improved
some of its best opportunities.
Rev. T. H. Beasley, the meek and somewhat timid
preacher, succeeded Rev. King. He served for a short period,
but ere long the church returned to her third love and re¬
called Rev. C. T. King, wTho is now serving with efficiency.
The present membership is about one hundred, mostly farm¬
ers, whose liberality is very commendable, indeed.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, STILLMORE..
The First Baptist Church, Stillmore, Ga., Emanuel Coun¬
ty, by reason of its loyal support to the work of the Asso¬
ciation, has become one of the leading churches. It was or¬
ganized in 1879, and is, therefore, one of the oldest churches
in that section of the County. Revs. E. B. Best, J. L. Lamb,
E. E. Arline and W. A. McCloud were the pastors who served
respectively. To the writer nothing much is known of any
of these pastors except Rev. MacCloud. We are informed,
210
however, that the administration of Rev. Arline was some¬
what stormy and unsatisfactory, though it is conceded that
he is a great revivalist. We have no doubt as to the ability
and consecration and real worth of those who preceded him.
ReV. MacCloud, through his perseverence and ability to
the best interest of his people, brought the church to the pres¬
ent position among the thoroughly progressive and foremost
churches. Walker Sunday School Convention, a body nearly
as large as the Association, was entertained by this church
in 1900. The present pastor is the President of this Conven¬
tion, and it is needless to state that the reception was both
royal and adequate. This church fills an important place in
the Baptist ranks of Georgia, not only because of its unrivaled
sway in a progressive town, but 'because of the many souls
led to Christ under her influence and prayers. I wish we
could tell something of her struggles, internal wars, hard¬
ships and achievements that dots the history of these noble
people. Certainly it must have required unusual strength of
character, wisdom and religion to mould such a church as we
now witness out of a people who were primarily the transient
laborers at the turpentine farm. But this church stands to¬
day as an evidence of what may be accomplished by leaders
of the right sort. Certainly the efforts of Rev. MacCloud, the
present pastor, has been fruitful, indeed, and we assure those
who must come after him that they will find the people wor¬
thy of the best that is in any minister of the Gospel.
CAMPBELL BAPTIST CHURCH.
Campbell Baptist Church, in Burke County, near Rosier,
Ga., is one of the youngest churches in the Association. The
membership is small but important. It was organized June
29, 1902, by Rev. G. J. Campbell and others. Rev. C. T.
Campbell was called as pastor and is still serving.
At the first meeting of the Association after its organiza¬
tion, this church was admitted to' membership. It has en¬
joyed a quiet but healthy increase, and doubtless will take
211
high rank among the older churches within a few years. The
necessity for its organization was apparent long before the
founders took action. It supplied a long felt need in that it
opened up in, and not altogether bright spot, a church that
would teach the principles for which the Association stood.
Of the achievements and struggles of this church that will
attend her onward march; others will have to write. The
coming generation will erect a suitable superstructure upon
the foundation already laid by those who saw the necessity
for the undertaking.
.2X2
CHAPTER 40.
BURNS GROVE.
This is one of the young and small churches of Walker
Association. It is located in the County of (Bulloch, and was
organized September, 1900. The present membership is about
sixty. The membership is composed of hard working farm¬
ers, but it is that class of people that has made the Associa¬
tion largely what it is today. This church, like many others,
united with the Association soon after its organization, and is
destined to become one of the strongest among us.
CALVARY BAPTIST, LYONS, GA.
This church was organized in 1896. The writer knows
but little about its history; in fact, it is located at the ex¬
treme southern limit of the Association's territory. It was
organized A. D., 1890. The membership has seen many
changes in administration, for it appears that five different
pastors has served since its organization, thirteen years ago,
viz.: Revs. Giles Metso, C. L. McClendon, C. L. Lawrence,
C. T. Turner and W. A. McCloud. Rev. McCloud has brought
this church most prominently befpre the Association, as not
only one of her most loyal daughters, but also a church that
is fruitful, indeed, in soul saving and awakening a wider in¬
terest in Walker Baptist Institute.
ANTIOCH, AUGUSTA.
The Antioch Baptist Church was admitted in 1888.
It is undoubtedly one of the leading churches of the
Association and must be honored by the body, because when
Walker Baptist Institute was moved to Augusta, in 1892, this
church sheltered it until the school building could be com¬
pleted. Rev. John O'Bryant was the first pastor and labored
fervently for the upbuilding of a strong congregation. Rev.
W. H. Dunn was the next pastor, and under his administra¬
tion the church strengthened and grew gradually. Rev. D.
213
McHorton was the third pastor, but,, like his predecessors,
his administration was not of long duration. About the close
of his administration there was some dissatisfaction that
threatened the peace of the church, but, while confused, they
were not destroyed.
'We forgot to say, while discussing the administration of
Rev. Dunn, that a company of members came out of Antioch
Church with him and organized the Mt. Calvary Church, of
which he is still pastor. Rev. Thomas J. Hornsby was called
from Blythe, Ga., to succeed Rev. McHorton. The church
during the various upheavals had fallen behind with her
finances, so that the new pastor found hanging over the con¬
gregation a debt of considerable proportion. These and other
obstacles seem to have served as an incentive to the new pas¬
tor and people, and ere long the church glided once more on
a calm sea. It would take a whole volume to tell the full
story of the victories achieved by this noble man. At the
time of his death, 1901, he enjoyed the love and confidence of
a large and influential congregation, on whose lips his name
still rest.
Rev. John W. Whitehead, a son of this church, and a life¬
long friend of Rev. Hornsby, was called to succeed him. A
nobler son never carried the mantle of a father with more
honor than Rev. Whitehead. The house no longer holds the
crowds that flock to hear him. The increase of membership
has been remarkable, and the finances so greatly increased
that the church finds itself able to employ a pastor for two
Sundays in the month and send annually for the past few
years $100.00 to the Association. It was at first a member of
the Ebenezer Association.
SMITH GROVE.
This old and well established church was organized A. D.,
1867. It is one of the strongest churches of the Association,
located about four miles east of Noah Station on the Augusta
Southern railroad. It was, I believe, one of the seven churches
214
that entered into the c-gc.;-;'::at:cn of the Association. At
first it was made up almost entirely of members living on the
plantation of Mr. Noah Smith, but long since it has stretched
its limits until her members are scattered all over a large part
of Jefferson County.
She had a long" line of pastors who were prominent in
the councils of the Association. They were Revs. Alfred
Young, Peter Walker, T. G. Green, T. J. Hornsby, J. T. Smith,
W. W. Jones and H. C. Carswell. Two of these men were
once Moderator of the Association (Hornsby and Walker) ;
Young was a great pastor; Smith (deceased) was a young
scholar and orator; T. G. Green is the powerful in prayer, and
Jones and Carswell are among the leading young men of to¬
day. Four churches have gone out from Smith Grove, viz.:
Keys Spring, Shavers Creek, Mt. Horeb and St. Clair. The
last named church is not claimed to be a branch from Smith
Grove by some because there is a question whether a ma¬
jority of those who went into the organization were from that
church. This church entertained the Association in 1887, and
it was there that the first large amount was raised for the
school. We might write at length and yet we could not do
justice to this congregation. It is sufficient to say that she
is an honor to herself, her Association and her God.
TREMONT TEMPLE, AUGUSTA, GA.
We could not get a history of this church. Many of the
pastors who were charged with the responsibility of furnish¬
ing the necessary data from which we could write, failed to
report after repeated warnings. It is a branch from the Geth-
semane Baptist Church, organized with a few members
brought out by Rev. Elvin Daggett. Among the pastors who
have served are Revs. Louis, T. W. Walker and S. J. Wil¬
liams, the present pastor. Rev. Williams has been serving a
number of years and greatly increased the membership.
215
CHAPTER 41.
ELIM BAPTIST CHURCH, AUGUSTA, GA.
This church was organized May 30th, 1886, and Rev. S. A.
McNeal was elected pastor. Sixty-five members from the
Cumming Grove Church went into the organization. Rev. E.
K. Love, D. D., of Savannah, preached the sermon of the oc¬
casion. Revs. Peter Walker, Butler Drisley and other min¬
isters took part in the organization. Only one deacon was in
the organization, viz.: Albert Taylor, who is still one of the
leading men, and is also known throughout the entire city as
a Christian gentleman of standing among both white and col¬
ored.
Among the members with which the church was organ¬
ized were: Deacon Albert Taylor, Brothers G. W. Pope, John
Martin, Augustus Avery, Patrick Sanders, A. W. Bennett,
Samuel Sneed, Pickins Hibley, W. A. Harris, D. B. Hampton,
J. H. Yerby, A. M. Miller, Turner Tanxley, William Glover
and David Smith. There were also the following sisters: Su¬
san Auffling, M. J. Auffling, Clara B. Auffling, Ann
Martin, Cornelia Dent, Emily Glover, Mary Hampton, Fan¬
nie Harris, Phillis Garvin, Rosetta Tanksley, Lena Hollins,
Emma Hibley, Hester Avery,, Mary L. Bennett, Viola Rogers,
Frances Yerby, Margaret Sanders, Zeline Porter Malinda
Shields, Camilla Golfin, Nancy Williams and Jane Johnson.
It was only three months after the organization before they
had erected a neat little house of worship, which is still stand¬
ing in the rear of their handsome property, to be used when¬
ever necessary as a prayer room.
At the next annual meeting of the Walker Baptist Asso¬
ciation, Elim applied for admission into the body. There
was some very strong opposition to its reception, but the
more intelligent men defended her, and after a heated dis¬
cussion, lasting for more than an hour, the little flock was
received with great enthusiasm.
Rev. S. A. McNeal served only seven months and re¬
signed. Rev. W. G. Johnson was called to succeed him in
216
1887, and seved eleven years. Under his administration a
handsome and neat little house of worship was erected that
cost something like $2,000. Dr. Johnson, as is known, was
an able and commanding preacher, who not only drew about
him the best element of the people of "The Hill," but bap¬
tized many into the membership of the church. Among those
baptized by him, some have become the leaders in the church
and Sunday School. Many are in other places holding up the
name of their Master among a strange people, and others are
numbered with the dead. Dr. Johnson, who was honored
with the degree of D. D. while in charge of this church, served
it until 1897, when he resigned to accept a call to the pastor¬
ate of the First 'Baptist Church, Macon, Ga.
Rev. Samuel C. Walker, a young man who had just en¬
tered into the ministry, was called to succeed Dr. Johnson.
This young man took hold and surprised the people of the
entire community. His success has been most marvelous.
The church under him grew with such rapidity that they were
able to entertain the Walker Baptist Association in 1900, and
a better entertainment was never furnished by any people.
The present officers are: Deacons Albert Taylor, Augus¬
tus Avery, G. W. Pope, D. B. Hampton, A, Reese, A. W.
Bennett, Louis Ansley and Norman Evans. Only one deacon
has died since the organization, A. M. Miller, who was one
of the oldest among them.
The property of the church is easily worth $5,000, and
much of this has been done by the present pastor, Rev. S. C.
Walker, B. D., who has been serving more than eleven years.
TABERNACLE, AUGUSTA, GA.
The Tabernacle Baptist Church of Augusta was organ¬
ized August 21st, 1885, and its growth in every respect has
been most marvelous. The more than 300 members which
went into the organization were the faithful followers of Rev.
C. T. Walker, D. D., whom they had as members of the Cen¬
tral Baptist Church, called to-be their leader.
Dr. Walker, who was at that time serving peaceably a
splendid charge at LaGrange, Ga., was extended a call to the
pastorate of the Central Baptist Church, with the hope that
217
his acceptance would end a long and painful religious war
that was giving the church a reputation not to be envied by
any Christian organization anywrhere. A persistent warfare
that interested the entire Baptist family of the city, both
white and colored, finally forced the sale of the property; and
by mutual agreement the proceeds from the sale was equally
divided among the two contending factions. The members
favoring the Rev. C. T. Walker retired from the scene, and,
under the name of Beulah Baptist Church, they were organ¬
ized in the house of worship of the Union Baptist Church. At
the next meeting Dr. Walker suggested the name of Taber¬
nacle, and it was instantly accepted.
The rapidity' with which the first house of worship was
erected astounded the outside world, and proved the almost
matchless executive ability of their leader. In less than four
months after the organization they entered the present house
of worship that had been erected at a cost of more than $15,-
000 (fifteen thousand dollars). Since then, of course, the
property has been increased and improved until it is worth
more than $22,000.
To give a fitting description of the accomplishments of
this church along missionary, educational and benevolent
lines, is among the many things impossible. The church first
came to the notice of the nation when, immediately after pass¬
ing through an experience which cost the members personal
sacrifices that was unavoidable in building a creditable house
of worship. They raised a purse of several hundred dollars
and gave their pastor a trip through the Holy Land. Dr.
Walker was so intensely grateful to these people for this un¬
common expression of sincere and abiding love, that he has
never found a field sufficifently charming to hold him perma¬
nently from the enjoyment of that love and confidence which
is peculiar to those who brave tremendous difficulties while
engaged in one common but noble endeavor.
There are some traits in the members of this church that
is truly commendable, and is worthy of emulation. They
strive to be worthy of the ablest leader among the ministers
of this and other states. And not only so, but with an abiding
218
faith in God, and an unyielding trust in the ultimate success
of a unity of effort, they have won the admiration of thous¬
ands in their contention for the righteousness of the princi¬
ples for which they have always stood.
In 1896 and in 1906 Tabernacle entertained the annual
meetings of Walker Baptist Association, and the treatment
received at the hands of these people and their noble pastor,
served a noble purpose. It was the city people's oppor¬
tunity, among whom Walker Baptist Institute had been re¬
cently located, to shpw to the people in the rural districts that
true 'Christianity knew no difference between a Christian who
lived in the midst of culture and one who by his own choos¬
ing had his hands tied to the soil.
In 1889 Dr. Walker accepted a call to the pastorate of the
Mt. Olivet Baptist Church of New York City, and for the first
time Tabernacle realized that the relation between pastor and
people could be broken. Dr. Walker accepted the call, and
that, too, over the protest of not only his own members, but
the citizens of Augusta, irrespective of race or creed.
Rev. S. X. Floyd, D. D., was called to succeed Dr. Wal¬
ker, and served one year,, from October, 1899, to January, 1901.
Dr. Floyd rendered faithful and able service, but there was
always a lingering hope that Dr. Walker would return to the
church which he founded and which none could lead as well
as he. Dr. Floyd tendered his resignation in November, 1900,
but the church having failed to accept it, he retired early in
the following year.
DR. C. T. WALKER RE-CALLED.
In June, 1901, Dr. C. T. Walker, D. D. LL.D., was re¬
called to the pastorate of the church, and anything like it, out¬
side of religious ethics, would be called a retaliation on the
"part of Tabernacle for the grief which they had suffered at
the hands of :Mt. Olivet, when just a few years previous to
that time she had taken Dr. Walker away.
The news of his acceptance was heralded everywhere,
and on his return he was greeted with a host who made no
219
attempt to conceal their joy. Since then there has been no
manifestations on the part of the pastor to leave them.
Some of the noblest workers the race has produced are
either to be found among the living or dead members of Tab¬
ernacle Church. Women, like the sainted Josephine Munns,
Georgia Branham and Victoria Batey and Deacons like Wes¬
ley Warren, J. A. Munns, D. Shedrick, W. M. Waiters, C.
H. Tilman, Eugene Jennings, H. B. Garven, J. L. Blair, H.
C. Young, Wm. Walker, M. S. Ryans, W. M. McNatt, G. J.
Wingfield, Charles McGahee, T. A. Williams and William
Dove have stood the test of time and are worthy of the trust
imposed.
There is also a strong Board of Trustees who look after
the property of the congregation. Among them may be men¬
tioned: A. B. Berrien, Jacob Batey, T. P. Lewis, R. W. Rouse,
Charles Murphey, R. M. Patterson, Edgar Brown, J. H. Wil¬
liams and A. 'B. Powell. There is also an Old Folks Home
connected with the church, over which another strong set of
men preside.
LOYALTY TO ASSOCIATION.
Tabernacle Church has been not only one of the most
loyal churches of Walker Association, but for the last four
or five years she has given through the Association to Wal¬
ker Baptist Institute more than $500 annually. Of course,
there are some careless and indifferent members among the
I,700 enrolled, but the real recognized members of this church
are among the most industrious and thoroughly united people
it has been our pleasure to know.
The house of worship, a two-story brick building, is
handsomely finished within and without, with a costly pipe
organ to accompany the music of human voices, such as would
grace the galleries of the best churches of this country.
A great church and a great preacher is a combination that
must shape the lives of thousands who are drawn within her
walls. Some of the greatest men and women of the nation
have set in her pews, and there, with unselfish devotion,
praised God from whom all blessings flow.
220
CHAPTER 42.
M'KINNIE BRANCH, M'BEAN, GA.
The full history of the above named church, if told in de¬
tail, would make a volume in itself. It was one of the seven
churches that constituted the Walker Association at Ways
Grove Church in 1868, and can truly boast of her loyalty to
every interest of the Association.
It was organized A. D., 1868, and linked her destiny with
other churches which has agreed together to spread the Gos¬
pel and foster the cause of education. The following is a list
of pastors who have served them since organization: Revs.
P. Walker, R. Whitehead, R. Lawson, H. C. Lane, C. T. Wal¬
ker, A. Cooper, William Brown, P. W. Watkins, N. Wilker-
son and G. S. Kilpatrick. Of the above number, five are dead,
viz.: R. Whitehead, R. Lawson, H. C. Lane, A. Cooper and
N. Wilkerson. Just a mere glance at the names given above
will give the reader some idea of the real and lasting good
accomplished by this church during the past forty years.
A long list of faithful deacons, standing like sentinels and
backed by a poor but zealous people, protected the interest
of the Association against one or two hired servants who were
not specially concerned in the work of the body.
In 1883 the Walker Association met with McKinnie
Branch, but the fact that this old and well established church
entertained but one of the annual meetings, must not be taken
to mean that they were lacking in interest or enthusiasm over
her successes. Several times during the history of these peo¬
ple they entertained many of the District meetings, and fur¬
nished comfortable lodging for those who came among them
to do the work of the Lord. McKinnie Branch has one off¬
spring, Daniel Grove Church, which was served so long and
faithfully by the late Rev. J. W. Weaver.
In writing of these churches located in the country, it is
to be remembered that while they do not compare with city
221
churches in intelligence, they are no less Christian, and are
far more appreciative of the real Gospel, preached with the
aid of the Holy Spirit. Under the leadership of the various
pastors mentioned in this brief sketch, the growth has been
normal. There are a few men among them who own and
operate farms and are doing much to help and encourage the
less fortunate members of the race.
MT. HOREB, MATTHEW, GA.
This church occupies a territory partly covered by Smith
Grove and Ways Grove Churches, and on account of its youth
will have to be vigilant to hold the ground already occupied.
It is a branch from the Smith Grove Church, having come
out of that body under a very painful- protest. Several months
before the organization the members composing this church
were in war with those who remained over questions that
vitally affected the best interest of Rev. W. W. Jones, the
pastor in charge. The climax was reached when in July, 1904,
a large number of members withdrew with the pastor from
Smith Grove, and organized Mt. Horeb the next day. For a
short time, while it appeared that the new church would put
out of existence the old one, but as is common with any im¬
pulsive decision, many of the most active followers weakened,
and gradually began to retrace their steps.
The sympathy received, and the progress made for the
first year was, in view of conditions, simply startling, but Rev.
Jones, to whom they were wedded, and for whom they had
stood, accepted a call to another church and from that blow
they have not fully recovered.
.Smith Grove made a hard fight in the Association against
the admission of Mt. Horeb, and forced a delay of two years
before the new church was admitted to membership. Rev.
S. !W. H. Murray, of Augusta, was called to succeed Rev.
Jones and is rendering faithful service. The future of Mt.
Horeb cannot be foretold. The community, however, is
222
large enough to give ample support to three or four large
churches of the same faith and practice.
MT. MORIAH, AUGUSTA.
This little church was organized A. D., 1890, and is lo¬
cated just outside the city limits. The need of a church in
this particular community appeared to the founders. They
gathered together a few earnest workers and organized. Rev.
J. W. Whitehead, then a young man just beginning in the
ministry, was called to the pastorate. Of this church, it may
be said that they have stood and passed through some very
trying ordeals that would have utterly destroyed many
churches composed of a membership less consecrated to the
service of the Master. Rev. Whitehead was to them a father.
For years they trusted him in all things,, so that they were
hardly prepared to stand the blow when God saw fit to pro¬
mote Rev. Whitehead to a larger field. A few of the mem¬
bers took letters and followed him, but a majority remained
and called to lead them Rev. William Bunch, who served
them for a short time. Rev. G. S. Kilpatrick succeeded Rev.
Bunch and served until he was called to another field. Rev.
R. W. Walker succeeded Rev. Kilpatrick and is still serving.
223
CHAPTER 43.
WILLIAMS GROVE, ROGERS, GA.
This church was organized on the third Sunday in Oc¬
tober, 1873, but for some reason its growth has been very
slow, considering its age and territory. A long line of pas¬
tors have served these people, among them some men who
were prominent in the councils of Walker and other Asso¬
ciations. Their terms run as follows: Rev. A. Williams from
1873 to 1883; Rev. B. Drisley from 1883 to 1884^ Rev. P.
Drisley from 1884 to 1886; Rev. E. Johnson from 1886 to
1887; Rev. J. S. Kelsey from 1887 to 1888; Rev. L. M. Du¬
val from 1888 to 1891; Rev. J. W. Weaver from 1891 to 1898;
Rev. S. P. Campbell from 1898 to 1905; Rev. G. H. Howell
from 1905 to 1907. Rev. S. fW. H. Murray was called to
succeed Rev. Howell in 1907, and is still rendering satisfac¬
tion.
Williams Grove first united with the Walker Associa¬
tion, but later took a letter and united with the Ebenezer
Association. After a few years of wandering, they returned
to their first love, the Walker Association, and have been a
loyal supporter of its school ever since. It stands to the
credit of this congregation that they have kept a complete
record of the various changes in pastors during all these
years. In a large majority of cases our churches throw away
the records after a few years, and can never give accurately
the number of years served by any one pastor. The present
membership of this church is about fifty, mostly farmers,
who live some distance from any town of note.
NEW LIGHT, WOODCLIFFE.
The organization of this church in November, 1901, was
the result of the efforts of Rev. W. G. Farmer, who rose so
rapidly from one position in his church to another until he
finally entered the ministry. New Light united with Wal-
224
REV. C. T. WALKER, D. D., L. L. D.,
Pastor of Tabernacle Church and Moderator of Walker Baptist
Association.
ker Association in 1902, with thirteen members. No small
church has done more for the Association of its choice, than
has this congregation. Perhaps her future is full of noble
achievements, especially so if they pursue the course mapped
out by their present leader.
WARDS GROVE.
This church was organized in August, 1889, but the rec¬
ord shows that it did not unite with the Association until
1891, at which time they applied for admission, having a
total membership of ten, but they have increased to sixty-
one under the administration of five different pastors who
have served them since they were constituted. She has had
the following pastors, viz.: Rev. Elijah Green, J. Bynes, M.
©. Buxton and J. M. Sapp. Rev. Buxton, with his usual per¬
sistence, brought-the little flock prominently before the As¬
sociation, and until now he occupied a warm place in the
hearts of those people, many of whom he led to Jesus Rev.
J. M. Sapp is now the much honored pastor, and the present
membership is about sixty-five.
FIRST BAPTIST, SPREAD, GA.
When in the course of any religious union, there arises
questions over which a serious disagreement is brooding,
those who are charged with the grave responsibility of steer¬
ing the course of the contending parties must decide which
is more desirable and expedient, a long uncertain contention
or a hasty separation. These were the problems that sud¬
denly arose in Harts Grove Church in November, 1905, when
a committee, appointed by the whole church, to purchase a
new site for the church, refused to act after months of pa¬
tient waiting and influenced others to decline to leave the old
spot.
At a time when patience ceased to be a virtue, and all
hope of a complete reconciliation of the contending mem-
225
bers was lost, the pastor of Harts Grove, Rev. R. J- John¬
son, advised that all members who wished to move to the
new place be allowed to withdraw from the church and the
money on hand be equally divided. This was done on the
first Sunday in December, 1905, and ninety-nine members
with the pastor withdrew and organized the First Baptist
Church the next day. Old pews were purchased from R.eedy
Creek Baptist Church (white) and for six months the month¬
ly meetings were held in the school house. Mr. Walter Sta-
pleton, who was not only friendly to the new church, but
had confidence in them, sold them two acres of land at a cost
of $200, he himself donating $50 of the amount. With the
same strong friend as endorser of all the indebtedness of the
church, a contract was let for a building to cost when com¬
pleted about $2,000. The building was rushed and on the
first Sunday in October, 1906, the new house was dedicated
by Dr. C. T. Walker, Moderator of Walker Baptist Associa¬
tion, assisted by Revs. G. S. Kilpatrick and W. H. Irby. The
present membership is more than 150, among them some of
the best people of Jefferson County.
The following are deacons: Lawson Irby, Ira Story, D.
W. Willis, Ben Jordan and H. H. Stapleton. These and
others combine to maintain a healthy church and make the
first years of the church's history a credit to themselves and
the friends who have given to this new organization their
financial and moral support. Revs. J. W. Whitehead and
R. J. Johnson organized it, and immediately after the organ¬
ization Rev. Johnson was called to the pastorate indefinitely
and asked to name the church,, which he did at once, calling
it First Baptist. Thus we have a brief story of a church
whose history will be of greater interest to the coming genera¬
tions.
NEW ZION, WRENS, GA.
We were serving Harts Grove when the members com¬
posing this church drew out with a view to organizing it, but
226
we cannot recall the year, nor the number that went into it
at its organization. A few of the members who took letters of
dismission from Harts Grove returned after about one year,
leaving the church weak and outnumbered by another denom¬
ination. It is about 'twelve years old and has had many pas¬
tors. Among them may be mentioned: Revs. Moses Hart, S.
M. B. Usry, D. D. Dudley, Cebron Howard, R. W. Walker,
G. J. Smith and C. J. Jones. The growth of the church has.
been greatly hindered because internal troubles that constant¬
ly break the peace of the congregation. There are in the num¬
ber some good members, but the church is at present too weak
financially to employ a man sufficient strong to cope with
other churches already strong and that occupy almost §.11 of
the territory in and around Wrens.
FRANKLIN COVENANT, NEAR HEPHZIBAH, GA.
This is by far the oldest church of the Walker Associa¬
tion, it having been organized on the third Saturday in March,
1848, by Revs. J. H. T. Kilpatrick and Jonathan Huff. It was
named Franklin 'Covenant in honor of Deacon Frank Wal¬
ker (deceased). The organization was composed of twelve
members, who took letters from Piney Grove Church. The
members and friends, after a hard day's work for their mas¬
ters, gathered on the spot of ground that had been given
by Col. A. C. Walker, and, with torchlights, they cut and
hewed timber to build a house of worship. When the night's
work was ended and they could tarry no longer on the spot,
they sang songs and offered prayers that God would bless
the spot, and make it sacred to the memory of their children
and the generations following.
Rev. J. H. T. Kilpatrick was the first pastor, and on the
day of the organization Brothers Nathan Walker and Thomas
Walker was ordained deacons. Early after the organization
Rev. Joseph Walker was ordained to the. work of the Gospel
ministry by Revs. J. H. T. Kilpatrick and W. H. Davis
(white). Rev. Joseph Walker succeeded Rev. Kilpatrick as
pastor of this church and baptized many happy souls. He
227
was, indeed, a great blessing to his people. It is worth re¬
cording that he was allowed to purchase his freedom in order
that his full time might be given to "the holy calling. He
laid a great foundation and other hands have built thereon.
Rev. L. B. Carter was the next pastor. Rev. Nathan
Walker was the third pastor, and under his administration,
which lasted for quite a number of years, the following were
ordained deacons, viz.: Troupe Harrison, John Glover, Darby
Walker, (Gilbert Johnson and Isaac Thomas. The next set
of officers ordained were: A. J. Walker, Simon Gilbert,, W.
W. Harrison, Josiah P. Walker, N. W. Wheeler, H. Ode-
ware, J. A. Walker and Dennis Wilkerson.
Under the pastorate of Rev. C. T. Walker, the following
brethren were ordained deacons, viz.: A. I. Irving, J. C. Har¬
rison and H. F. Walker. Under different pastors Chester
Green and Mousher Q3eal. Since then the following deacons
have been ordained: Mathis Harrison, Stephen Roberson,
Wyatt Parker, P. J. Jones, Calvin Hudson, Louis Parker,
Henry Ryans, Walker, Robert Wheeler and Stokes.
Covenant Church have had the following pastors, viz.:
Revs. J. H. T. Kilpatrick, Joseph Walker, Nathan Walker,
L. B. Carter, Peter Walker, Alfred Young, C. T. Walker
(three terms), R. Whitehead, T. J. Hornsby, W. G. Johnson,
A I. Irvin and S. C Walker. The church is now sixty years
old and has had twelve different pastors; and in a majority of
cases they were men of their own number. Of the above
number only four are living.
As we stated at the outset, this church has supplied the
Association with some of the ablest men she has had since its
organization. Listen: Revs. Joseph Walker, Nathan Wal¬
ker, Peter Walker, Robert Whitehead, Henry Walker, Isaac
Thomas, C. T. Walker, J. A. Walker, A. J. Walker, W. G.
Johnson, A. I. Irvin, R. J. Johnson, J. M. Parfcer, W. W.
Jones; licentiates, Sandy Williams, A. U. Irvin and A. W.
Redman.
Of the pastors named, the Association was named for
one—Joseph Walker. Four of them: Revs. Peter Walker,
228
Nathan Walker, T. J. Hornsby and C. T. Walker, served
several years each as Moderator, and the last named is still
serving. Rev. W. G. Johnson is Secretary of the Walker
Association at this writing. Of the men sent out by this
church, who never served as pastor, it may be said that every
one of them has made their mark in life, Rev. J. A. Walker
being for a long time one of the professors in Walker Bap¬
tist Institute, and finally became its Principal for one or two
terms.
Rev. R. J. Johnson has been Chairman of the Finance Com¬
mittee of Walker Association for more than eighteen years,
and has been its Treasurer for eight years.
The work accomplished by the pastors who have served
it during the last twenty years is too much to attempt to
crowd into the little space available for this sketch.
Franklin Covenant lost one house of worship by fire.
Her members have always been a peaceable people. Hun¬
dreds of them rest beyond the river, but her members are now
scattered from the mountain to the sea.
229
CHAPTER 44.
FIRST M'COY, JENKINS COUNTY.
The Minutes of the Walker Association show that this
church must have been organized about 1875, for by 1880 it
was one of the prominent churches of the body. A long line
of able ministers have served them from the organization
until now: Revs. H. C. Lane, C. J. Jones and G. S. Kilpatrick,
the present pastor. It is difficult to trace the work of these
two McCoy Churches, in the same community and Associa¬
tion, for the reason that for a long time after the trouble be¬
tween them had been adjusted, both called themselves Mc¬
Coy, and to the stranger there was absolutely no way of
knowing just which congregation was referred to. We have
told in another chapter of the long-drawn-out dispute between
two factions of this church, which lasted too long to savour
of anything spiritual. This dispute greatly weakened both
sides, and since then their progress has not been anything out
of the ordinary.
Be it said to the credit of the church, that there never was
a time when she became disgruntled and sought to withdraw
from the Association. Under Rev. Kilpatrick the church is
in the way of great success if they will give him even a rea¬
sonable support.
ST. JOHN, AUGUSTA.
The St. John Baptist Church, located in that part of the
city commonly known as Harrisburg, is another church which
was born and trained in the hard school of affliction. In 1892
much dissatisfaction arose in the Hosannah Baptist Church
during the administration of the Rev. J. B. Neal (deceased),
who for a short period had served that church as pastor. Rev.
Neal, who was in the prime of life and full of ambition, would
not yield quietly to the opposition against him; and rather
than force himself and his friends to engage in further strife,
he drew out a large number of the members and organized the
St. John Church in 1893.
230
After they were organized they elected Rev. Neal pastor,
and he served them two years, when he resigned and 'Rev. A.
W. Wilson was called to succeed him. Under Rev. Wilson,
who was an able preacher, the little flock came to prominence
and made their influence felt all over that part of the city.
Rev. Wilson served from 1895 to 1898, when he resigned and
Rev. S. W. H. Murray was elected pastor. Rev. Murray has
been the invincible leader for eleven years, and under him
great has been the changes. The membership has steadily in¬
creased, and much has been done in the way of building and
improving the property of the church. The membership is
composed mostly of young people, and it is easily the most
popular church in that part of the city. Out of the more than
150 members, nearly all of them are not only good Christians,
but good citizens as well.
SECOND SPRINGFIELD, NEAR WAYNESBORO.
Among the churches recently organized and united with
the Walker Association, none has been more faithful and con¬
secrated to the work of the body than Second Springfield. Her
first pastor-was the Rev. N. W. Perkins, who was called soon
after its organization in 1900, and through his faithfulness the
little plant took root and began in a short while to bring forth
fruit abundantly. Rev. P. A. Green was the next pastor and
he served only one year. Rev. C. W. Watkins succeeded Rev.
Green, and he served the church faithfully until he was suc¬
ceeded by Rev Thomas M. Sapp, of Augusta.
The following deacons have helped to keep the banner of
the Lord from trailing in the dust: H. S. Sapp, N. H. Higgins,
L. Sapp and Lewis Lovett.
Second Springfield is a branch from New Springfield at
Alexander, iGa., and, like her mother, has been true to the trust
imposed in keeping the work of the Association constantly be¬
fore the people in her community. She entered the Association
in 1900 with a membership of twenty-eight, and now by con-
231
stant endeavor and faith in God, the number has increased
wonderfully. These churches of the rural districts are the
sources from which a considerable amount of help comes.
GETHSEMANE, AUGUSTA.
Many and, indeed, most, of the churches which now hold
such prominent places in the religious councils of city life were
founded by Christians, who in pursuit of a profitable and con¬
genial occupation, move into the city. They frequently gather
in such large numbers from the same section that the idea of
setting up a church suited to a policy in which they have fully
believed, grows in favor until it results in action. The or¬
ganizing of the Gethsemane Church in 1892 was the bringing
together of a few Christian people who came from Columbia
and McDuffie Counties.
Rev. Elvin Daggett was the first pastor, and though he
was not a learned man, he was nevertheless a man of char¬
acter and standing among the better class of people, who
stand for the elevation of the human family. Feeble health
caused Rev. Daggett to be deposed by a sufficient number
to make his resignation necessary, so that in 1896 Rev. S.
W. H. Murray, a bright young man just entering upon the
work of the ministry, was called to the pastorate of the
church. Rev. 'Murray took the little flock as his own children
and in many instances never exacted of them the actual money
which he had spent for the immediate needs of the church.
He built a comfortable house of worship and baptized many
Souls. Rev. Murray resigned in 1908, and Rev. Thomas H.
Holmes was called to succeed him. Rev. Holmes had a bril¬
liant start, but it seemed after one year strong opposition
arose and he resigned.
WILLIAMS GROVE, WAYNESBORO.
The Williams Grove Church, near Waynesboro, is one
of the younger churches of the Walker Association. We are
232
sorry we have no definite information as to the exact day
when this church was organized. It entered the Walker As¬
sociation in 1892 with a membership of ten, but has since
increased to forty-eight. Rev. E. C. Williams, an earnest
young man, was the first pastor. He was succeeded by Rev.
W. H. Lacey, another one of the faithful ministers of our
Association. Rev. E. C. Williams has been recently re¬
called and is rendering efficient service, Williams Grove is
one of the few young churches that has not come' up to the
Association almost every year with a new pastor. This in
itself is commendable, and furnishes a foundation for the
hope that the church will ere long become one of the leading
churches of Burke County,
233
CHAPTER 45.
EDEN, LOUISVILLE, GA.
This church had a stormy beginning, not because of any
fault on the part of the members who went into the organi¬
zation, but because Rev. Andrew Wilkerson, who drew them
out from St. Paul 'Church, Louisville, was not mindful to
have the founders properly dismissed. The church was be¬
fore the Association for three years applying for member¬
ship, with Rev. Wilkerson as pastor, but was finally forced
to return home, adjust their differences with the St. Paul
Church, and re-organize October, 1885.
From that time the story of her successes is, to say
the least, wonderful, indeed. Shortly after the re-organiza¬
tion Rev. Jeff Irby was called to succeed Rev. Wilkerson.
Rev. Irby's administration was not especially interesting,
though he baptized quite a number of souls. Rev. Harry M.
Williams was the next pastor and he being one of the ablest
ministers at that time in Jefferson County, he soon gathered
about him a large following, and with the aid of friends as
well as his own membership, he erected a very large and
comfortable house of worship. Rev. Williams was, as we
have said elsewhere, a power in the pulpit, and while Eden
was severely criticized by outsiders for retaining him in the
pastorate in the face of the fact that he was none too tem¬
perate, and took great interest in politics. Along all other
lines he commanded the highest respect of everybody who
knew him. He made Eden superior in many respects to all
of the immediate -neighboring churches, and after his death
the church went out looking for a man to keep up the record
he had made.
Rev. W. G. Johnson, D. D., was called to succeed Rev.
Williams. He accepted the call, but on account of other
fields which claimed all of his time, he could do but little
more than direct the affairs of the church from his home in
Augusta. This was no impediment in the way of those who
234
had the best interest of the church at heart, for they clung
to him, receiving him joyfully when he came, until his call
to the First Baptist Church, Macon, Ga., made it absolutely
impossible for him to serve them longer.
The next pastor was Rev. John T. Smith, a brilliant
young man who had just graduated from Walker Baptist In¬
stitute, and had entered the ministry. Rev. Smith was too
full .of zeal for his physical strength. He possessed a giant
intellect, and with it he attempted the operation of a church
which had enjoyed the pastorate of two of the strongest pay¬
ors ever connected with the Walker Association. The Wal¬
ker Association, in recognition of the ability of this young
man, held one of her annual meetings with Eden, and by it
strengthened him and the church greatly in the estimation of
all who attended. After the death of Rev. Smith, in August,
1900, Rev. R. J. Johnson, the present pastor, was called.
Among the officers who have assisted the various pas¬
tors in the development of this church may be mentioned:
Adams (deceased), Berry Williams, F. W. Williams, M.
Fields, Jack Backey, M. R. Lockhart and Ned Heard. There
is one thing that stands to the credit of this church: it is a
peaceable congregation with a set of officers second to none,
who are not only commended at home, but among the peo¬
ple of the neighboring churches as well. The members are
liberal and loyal, and meddlers get cold comfort when they
seek to stir up strife.
KELSEY CHAPEL.
This church is one of the young churches of the Asso¬
ciation, having been organized on the third Sunday in July,
1896, with a few members who were members of that fam¬
ily for whom the church was named. It was admitted to
membership in the Association in 1897, with nine members,
and since then the number has increased to more than forty.
Rev. A. P. Kelsey, who was called to the pastorate, immedi¬
ately after the organization, is still the honored pastor, and
has the confidence and respect of a large community of peo-
235
pie besides his immediate membership. Kelsey Chapel, while
small to some of the churches in the Association, has stood
by the work of the body and has shown herself to be pro¬
gressive.
GORDON HILL.
The spot where this church is located, near Green's Cut,
Ga., is a place where religious services has been held con¬
tinuously for quite a number of years. The members of Pal¬
mers Grove, living in that community, had been accustomed
to holding meet at or near what was known as "the burned
lot," and had grown so devoted to the spot until for years
before the organization of Gordon Hill, many were the souls
saved by the prayer meetings at that place.
/Shortly after Rev. G. S. Kilpatrick entered the ministry
he was invited by those interested to come and set up a
church on the spot. In answer tc their call he organized this
church in 1902; and at once set out to build a house of wor¬
ship. In this undertaking he was greatly encouraged by
friends, both white and colored, so that in a short time he had
erected a house of worship at a cost of several hundred dol¬
lars. Today the church is in a flourishing condition, and
Brother Kilpatrick can point with pride to one of the most
progressive young churches in the bounds of the Walker As¬
sociation.
GORDON GROVE.
For years this church was known by the name of Mace¬
donia, but the name has been changed to Gordon Grove. It
was organized some time in 1887, and has had some of the
best leaders in the Association. According to the best in¬
formation obtainable, Rev. S. P. Pitts was the first pastor.
^He served for a number of years and did much good, both
as pastor and as an earnest representative of the Walker As¬
sociation. Rev. S. W. Wims was the second pastor. He was
'a man of sober habits and withal a sound Gospel preacher.
Rev. W. A. McCloud, of Wadley, succeeded Rev. Wims and
^greatly increased the usefulness of the church. When Rev.
236
McCloud resigned Rev. Walter Dickerson, of Millen, was
called to succeed him. The next pastor was Rev. B. B. Ber¬
rien, who is in charge at this writing.
Prominent among the officers of the church may be
mentioned Brothers Henry Gibbons and Ishmael Johnson.
The congregation is mostly farmers, and as they sow they
keep in mind the crying needs of the work that must be ac¬
complished by Walker Baptist Institute.
HARTS GROVE, SPREAD, GA.
When Rev. Jesse J. Davis was in the prime of his life;
indeed, real young in years, robust in body, somehow he
found a place and a people who were anxious for a place
where they could worship God. Brother Moses Hart, who
owned a small tract of land, gave enough of his small pos¬
session to the church, so that in 1878 it was organized and
was admitted into the Association with twenty-nine mem¬
bers Immediately after the organization Brother Moses Hart
was elected deacon and Rev. Jesse J. Davis, pastor. Under
Brother Davis the church began at once to flourish, having
to some extent the assistance of the members of Storm
Branch Church, near Warrenton, from whence most of them
had come. Brothers Caleb Stapleton, William Roberson,
Lawson Irby and Booker Yancy became deacons later.
Rev. Davis having been called to a church in Atlanta,
he resigned Harts Grove about 1889, after rendering ten
years of the most faithful services. He was succeeded by
Rev. Thomas R. Glover, who was a man of spotless charac¬
ter and great faith in God. Rev. Glover served until Octo¬
ber, 1892, when Rev. R. J. Johnson was called to succeed him.
Under the administration of Rev. Johnson, which lasted thir¬
teen years, Brothers Dennis Willis, J. P. Pughley and Peter
Hart were ordained deacons. Rev. Johnson resigned Decem¬
ber, 1905, and the following spring Rev. J. W. Weaver was
elected to succeed him.
The pastorate of Rev. Weaver was marked with great
success, he being a man of character and standing in the As-
237
sociation. Under his administration the following were or¬
dained deacons: James Williams, Julius Roberson, John H.
Sturgis and Isaiah Rivers. Deacon Ira Story, of the First
Baptist Church, was a deacon of Harts Grove also for many
years and was one of the faithful.
Affliction, God's busy servant, soon laid its hand on
Rev. Weaver, so that near the summer of 1908, he was
obliged to send a substitute to fill his appointment. Just be¬
fore the death of Rev. Weaver the church extended a call to
Rev. S. J. Williams, which he declined after making one visit.
Rev. Thomas H. Holmes was then called and he is the pres¬
ent pastor, having served only a few months.
Two churches went out from Harts Grove, viz.: New
Zion, at Wrens, Ga., and the First Baptist, Spread, Ga.
In 1894, under the administration of Rev. R. J. Johnson,
the Association held her annual meeting with Harts 'Grove,
and everybody expressed themselves as highly pleased wjth
the entertainment given the messengers.
POPLAR HEAD, BEARING, GA.
This church is located in the heart of a great farming
territory and is composed of some of the best people in the
Walker Association. It is an old church having been organ¬
ized in 1867. We cannot say how many members went into
the organization, as it did not unite with the Walker Asso¬
ciation until a few years ago.
The first pastor was Rev. Wallace Moore, but of him and
his work we can say nothing. The next pastor was Rev.
Benjamin Grenade,- a man of learning and high standing in the
ministry. Under him the church flourished, and grew until
the membership realized the value of a truly able and conse¬
crated leader. He was succeeded by Rev. Jesse Davis of
whom we have spoken again and again, since we started this
account. He left the church when he was called to a charge
in Atlanta, and soon afterwards Rev. A. L. D'Antignac was
called to succeed him. When Rev. D'Antignac took charge
the interest of the congregation began to turn to the Walker
238
Association, of which he was a prominent member. As time
passed the church decided to unite with the Walker Associa¬
tion.
Since the organization of the church, two ministers have
been ordained, viz: Rev. Clark Allen, and C. H. Combs.
The following deacons have been ordained, and some of
them are now living and doing faithful service for the people
who thought them worthy of such honor: Henry Huff
(deceased) ; Peter Sellers, (deceased) ; Charlie Huff, (de¬
ceased) ; Cicero Beard, Y. W. White, Albert Welkin, Frank
Huff, Ben Rowling, Pierce Allen and R. L. Allen.
In writing these sketches we regret our inability to give
credit to many of those in the various churches as fully worthy
of mention as others who by reason of position demand prom¬
inent mention.
As late as it was when this church entered the Association
it has fully imbibed the spirit of the leaders, and will ere
long rival those who by reason of years are already far ad¬
vanced in the race.
ROCKY FORD.
The Rocky Ford church is a branch from, Carswell Grove
church, and has been on 'the steady increase ever since its or¬
ganization. It was organized 1877, by Rev. Emanuel Dicker-
son, and he was chosen as the first pastor. The next pastor
was Rev. Henry'Walker, and of him we have spoken freely in
another chapter. Rev. Peter Walker was called to succeed
Rev. Henry Walker, and this one fact shows that the little
flock had high ideas concerning the ministry. Rev. Peter
Walker was in every way a success. The following followed
each other in the order in which they are given: Revs. J. J.
Dickerson, N. Wi1kerson, Robert Kelsey, J. M. Sapp, V. G.
Williams, and E. J. Whitehead. Some of the strongest '{work¬
ers of this church are now in glory, such as Rev. J. C. Mingle,
who died Sep. 1899, and Rev. H. C. Dickerson, and Deacon
Miler Dickerson. But we will meet them in the great beyond,
some sweet day.
239
CHAPTER 46.
SPRING HILL, BLYTHE, GA.
This is one of'the older churches of the Walker Association,
:t having been organized Jan. 1871, by Revs. Henry Walker,
W. L. Kilpatrick, and others associated' with them. Rev.
Henry Walker was truly the founder. As we think of the
past and remember how many Christians had to withdraw
irom their respective churches, churches dear to them, in
order to start new ones in the vacant places, we are reminded
that these people did as much in sacrificing ties that were
almost sacred, as any set of modern missionaries who have
gone forth to evangelize the world. It was practically an arm
of Franklin Covenant church reaching out in an unoccupied
field. A little band of the best of the race living in convenient
reach of the church, made up the company that went into the
organization. Rev. Henry Walker, the son of Rev. Joe
Walker, was called to the pastorate after the organization, and
served until 1880, when he resigned and moved to Munerlyn,
Ga. Thus for nine years he stood by the young church, having
under him as Sunday school workers T. J. and S. C. Hornsby.
Rev. T. J. Hornsby succeeded Rev. Henry Walker as
pastor, and the success enjoyed by the people along educa¬
tional as well as religious lines, stamped him in the memory of
more than one generation Indeed with the older people still
living he has not been equaled by any of his successors. What
ever Rev. Hornsby was he made Spring Hill the same. He
baptized many happy souls, and taught the children in the
day school. Only a few years ago Spring Hill, under the
leadership of Rev. R. J. Johnson, and under his recommenda¬
tion placed a slab over the grave in which his ashes rest.
Having been called to the pastorate of the Antioch Baptist
church of Augusta, Rev. Hornsby tendered his resignation,
and was succeeded by Rev. A. L. D'Antignac, who served
from 1888 to 1892. Under his leadership the church contin¬
ued to enjoy a prosperous season. He also baptized many
souls and increased not only the membership but the popu-
240
REV. S. C. WALKER, B. D.,
Pastor of Elim Church and Business Manager of Walker Baptist
Institute
larity of the church as well. In October 1891, the church
extended a call to Rev. R. J. Johnson, who was at that time
only a licensed preacher of Franklin Covenant church. Rev.
Johnson was immediately called to ordination by his church,
and was installed in the pastorate of Spring Hill Church by
Rev. T. J. Hornsby on the first Saturday in February, 1892.
Under the pastorate of Rev. Johnson several changes have
been made in the policy of the church. Changes made nec¬
essary by the growth of the church as well as the conditions
under which the church must now be operated. In 1892-93
a new house of worship was erected at a cost of about Five
Hundred Dollars, and in it the congregation worshiped until
1908, when another house was built, that when completed
will be worth more than Fifteen Hundred Dollars.
Rev. Johnson will soon complete his seventeenth year as
pastor of this church, and the membership has increased under
him from about 120 to more than three hundred, not counting
the more than one hundred dead, who await the coming of the
present workers.
The ministers who held and are holding membership there
are as follows: Henry Walker (deceased), T. J. Hornsby
(deceased), Licentiate Joseph Walker (deceased), S. S. Wal¬
ker, S. C. Walker, R. W. Walker, Floyd Walker (withdrawn)
and E. G. Ware.
The Deacons follows, viz: Samuel Hornsby, Sr., (de¬
ceased), Hampton Dukes (deceased), Neely -Brown (de-
seased), James Ealy (deceased), S. C. Hornsby, Alex Rober-
son, Thomas Walker, Sam Smith, Lewis Jones, Willie Wil¬
liams and W. White Walker.
The membership, many of them own homes, and operate
large farms which they purchased by hard labor and the great¬
est sacrifice.
MAGNOLIA, AVERA, GA.
The Magnolia Baptist Church of Avera, is one of the
churches that united with the Walker Association about 1879.
Rev. Edward Burton was the first pastor, and for a number of
years he represented it at every annual meeting. It is located
241
in Jefferson county some distance from the Augusta Southern
R. R., and has enjoyed the services of some of the leading men
of the times.
Rev. Jesse J. Davis succeeded Rev. Burton, and through
his effort much improvement was made along all lines. Rev.
Davis was much beloved by the people of the entire communi¬
ty, and when remaining with them was no longer possible,
Rev. J. T. Young was called to succeed him. Rev. Young
served only a short while before Rev. Thomas G. Green was
called to succeed him. These rapid changes of pastors were
not so much out of accord with the spirft of the times, for
the churches of Walker and other Associations have only
recently come to the place where they recognize that every
man who may chance to pass and for one or two sermons
create more interest than the pastor, is not entitled to con¬
sideration as the next pastor of the church. Rev. P. E. Green
was called to succeed Rev. T. G. Green, but his administration
was also a short one.
Rev. J. W. Whitehead succeeded Rev. P. E. Green and
served until he resigned to take charge of the Springfield
Church at Thomson, Ga., Rev. S. C. Walker succeeded Rev.
Whitehead, and served until he was called to another field.
The next pastor was Rev. T. H. Beasley of Wadley. His
stay was short. Rev. C. J. Jones succeeded Rev. Beasley and
served about three years Rev. W. W. Jones was next called
and served about one year. Rev. E. W. Burke is the present
pastor, he having been called in 1908. Such Deacons asG. J.
Gamble, Bostic and John Hill, have held the congregation
together through all these years of many changes, and they
still stick to the old sacred spot with no less devotion than
they manifested when they were struggling to bring the
church up to a high standing among the churches of the
Walker Association.
We are sorry we cannot give the exact length of the
terms of these several pastors and what they accomplished.
This general sketch is simply intended to give the reader some
idea of the church that has had in many ways a remarkable
career.
242
FIRST BAPTIST, WADLEY, GA.
This church is a branch from the San Clair church. A
considerable number of members of that church living in and
around Wadley in a little village called Bethany constituted
it in 1907, and erected a small but comfortable house of wor¬
ship before they called a pastor. The first pastor called was
Rev. W. W. Jones, but he declined to serve. Rev. M. T. J.
Jones was then called.
The officers are a set of thorough going men. Prof. Ii. D.
Grant, who was a deacon and perhaps the leading spirit in it,
died in the early part of 1909, but Deacon Augustus Hale still
lives and is taking care of the interest of the church.
The church is too young to tell much of its past or to
prophecy much of its future. It is in a good locality, and
surrounded by a generous people.
ADAM GROVE, GRACEWOOD, GA.
This little congregation was organized sometime about
1889, with Deacon Ned Adams, as founder. Brother Adams
had from time to time showed signs of a desire to head some
movement that would be perpetuated after his death, so when
he purchased a small tract of i?,nd near Gracewood, Ga., he
at once set to work to begin a church on his land. The effort
was successful, for in a few months he had assembled.a small
number of people together and accordingly a church was or¬
ganized. Rev. A. I. Irving was the first pastor, he having been
ordained to serve it. It started off depending largely for its
congregation upon Franklin Covenant Church several miles
away, whose interest was principally in the success of the
young leader who had been chosen out of her number. Dea¬
con Jordan Jones and his family bec?(me interested in the
success of the church, having become members thereof, and he
took up the work where Brother Adams left off at the time
of his death. Rev. Lee Whitehead of Hephzibah, served for
a short while and also Rev. C. J. Noble of Augusta. Rev.
Crawford Mitchel, of Gracewood is the present pastor. The
little band reported twenty-eight in number at the last meeting
of the Association. Rev. M. T. J. Jones after serving there for
a number of years as Deacon and Clerk, was finally ordained
to the work of the Gospel Ministry.
243
RICHMOND HILL.
This church was organized about 1897, by Rev. W. W.
Jones and o'thers, Rev. Jones should be called its founder, for
it was while he was teaching nea"r the line of Richmond and
Burke counties in a house of worship formally occpuied by
the A. M. E. church he, as a young preacher, got permission
to carry on a little meeting there, and before its close those
who had control of the house decided to be baptized and
change it into a Baptist church. Rev. Jones served it awhile
bu't soon left it for a larger field. Since then the church, while
not very flourishing, has managed to more than hold her own,
and reports progress every year to the Association. We have
not kept up with all of the pastors, but Revs. W. W. Jones,
J. M. Parker and W. F. Franklin, have served in the order
given. Rev. Franklin is the present pastor, and reported at
the'last annual meeting, thirty members enrolled.
GOOD HOPE, AUGUSTA.
This church is not only a' new one in the Walker Associ¬
ation, but it is also a newly organized church out of about
forty members who left the Central Baptist Church. They
did not organize the Good Hope church as soon as they left
Central, they rather followed their leader to another place
where they operated under another name, proposing to build.
After several months, about forty of them lost confidence in
the man that led them out, but unwilling to return to the old
church where further union seemed impossible, they selected
a council of the leading ministers of the city and agreed to
follow what ever decision was reached by this council. The
Brethren met and after a most deliberate consideration of all
the questions of orthodoxy, decided to advise them to organize
a church. A council was called and the Good Hope church
was organized, and immediately Rev. S. H. Watkins was
called to the pastorate. Among the prominent leaders may
be mentioned Deacon Robt. Turner. The pastor at this
writing has just tendered his resignation, which leaves the
church without a lea/der.
Later—Brother^ Burns has been called.
244
CHAPTER 47.
CENTRAL, AUGUSTA, GA.
The Central Baptist Church is, we believe, the second
oldest church among the Baptists in the' City of Augusta.
No effort will be made here to give more than a mere outline
of the actual course over which this old and interesting church
has come. Several times under the administration of Rev.
Henry Jg^son the church has been torn asunder. Under the
most prolonged and stubborn fight ever witnessed in the Bap¬
tist family of this vicinity, the house of worship went to the
auction block, and one faction known as the "Jacksonites"
bought in the property, half of proceeds from the sale going
to the company now known at 'the Tabenacle Church, pastored
by Dr. C. T. Walker. This was the largest but by no meajns
the only split in this congregation. At different times scores
of people expelled from the membership of the church in those
periodical wars, were justified by exparte councils and al¬
lowed to unite with other Baptist churches of the city. This
course was necessary because the pastor, the Rev. Henry
Jackson, always refused to recind any action taiken by himself
or the church under his advice, and not only so, but also
refused to answer the call of any council, invited by the
aggrieved members.
The last notable split occurred when the church called
Rev. A. W. Wilson to the pastorate. Rev. A. Gary, who was
a member of that church, and who it ^eemed had fought the
former pastor, was opposed to the election of the Rev. Wilson,
he himself having a following who were pledging their sup¬
port to him. Into the courts once more, and the Good Hope
Church of Walker Association is the result of that strife,
though those composing the Good Hope Church are the
number of thq-se who forsook Rev. Gary after he had brought
them out of the mother church,
The church has had the following pastors: Revs. Peter
Johnson, Henry Jackson, C. T. Walker, H. Jackson (second
245
term), A. W. Wilson, and Dr. J. S. Cooper. Dr Cooper has
just left the church and they are without a leader.
Central Church has been in the Walker Association only
one year, and therefore has no history in connection with that
body. It jrs about 52 years of age, and has a membership of
about 320, but they are scattered from the mountain to the
sea.
Since the above was written the Rev. R. J. Johnson, the
author of this book has been called to the pastorate of this
church and has accepted.
BOTTSFORD, BURKE COUNTY.
This church I believe took its name from the white church
of which the founders were members in the days of slavery.
It is many miles from any railroad, but is in a very thickly
settled community. It was organized A. D. 1867, but we have
no information as to the number that entered into the organi¬
zation. Rev. Robert Whitehead was the first pastor, and our
recollection is that he served for a very long time. For a
long time the mention of Rev. Whitehead's name reminded
one of IBottsford. Bottsford is not only the oldest church in
that section of the country, but it is the mother of .many more,
viz: Springfield, Daniel Grove, Allen Chapel, Godby Grove,
McKinnie Branch, Ebenezer, Hatcher Branch and Thomson
Bridge. With all these churches gone out, one at a distance
would think that the mother church was now very feeble,
but ^he holds her own, not only as one of the strongest
churches of Walker Association financially, but also numeri¬
cally. Her sons and daughters are scattered from the moun¬
tain to the sea, and yet when ever her doors are open, hun¬
dreds fill every available space in her house of worship.
Several time^ this church entertained the Association,
and other meetings of the body. It was at Bottsford in 1893,.
that the great question of choosing between the two State
Conventions had to be settled.
Rev. N. (Wilkerson succeeded Rev. Whitehead, but his
term was nothing like as long. Rev. W. H. Bessent, one of
246
their own jsons, succeeded Rev. Wilkerson, and he remained
pastor until he resigned to accept the pastorate of Grays Grove
as the successor of Rev. H. C. Lane, deceased. Under the
administration of Rev. Bessent the church prospered greatly,
and it was with regret that they yielded to a lister church
that was severely afflicted in the loss of their leader.
Rev. W. W. Jones of Augusta, was called to succeed Rev.
Bessent, but some serious misunderstandings soon arose
which severed his connection with the church, and ate a result
of the same we have the Thomson Bridge church of which
Rev. Jones is now pastor.
The history of this one church would make a very long
story,, but we are only concerned in handing down to unborn
generations the particulars concerning the churches that make
up what we call the Great Walker Baptist Association.
FORTS GROVE, EMANUEL COUNTY.
The Forts Grove Bajptist Church was organized A. D.
1878, but we have no record of the number that entered into
the organization.
She has had the following pastors: Revs. H. Y. 'Pope,
one year; Y. Whigham, one year, baptized none; :G. W. Lane
three yearns, baptized one; J. T. Thomas, five years, baptized
five and ordained one deacon; N. Wilkerson,, six years, bap¬
tized 20, ordained one deacon; J. T. Young, one year, baptized
none; P. E. Green, five years, baptized 30; I. W. W'ay, six
years, baptized 10, ordained two deacons.
W. G. Farmer is the present pastor, he is one of the
younger pastors of the Walker Association. We cannot ac¬
count for the small membership,, when we note that the total
membership is not more than 50, though it is near the thriving
little town of Summertown. A sufficient number of members
were borrowed from the Brinson Hill Church at W'adley, to
make a respectable number in the organization.
The number baptized from time to time are scattered
here gjnd there, so that there hass been but little visible in¬
crease. Under the present pastor we are sure that the church
247
will enjoy a season of great prosperity. The Walker Asso¬
ciation greatly appreciates these churches that border on the
territory of other Associations, and which are too far to one
side to warrant the body in attempting to hold any of its an¬
nual meetings with them. They serve a great purpose, for
others gain inspiration from them.
BRINSON HILL, WADLEY, GA.
We wish we could give in detail the record of this church
that is ripe in years and works. It was organized in 1871, and
immediately united with the Association. Indeed, these stir-
ing times among the churches when new ones were springing
up every where, was a greater factor in the elevation of a
recently emancipated people than all other forces^ combined.
The following pastors have served it in the order given:
H. P. Ports, Nathan Walker, Edward Burton, Tutt Whigham,
Climson Brown, J. S. Kelsey, A. J. WTalker, T. H. Beasley, J.
W. Weaver, and W. A. McCloud. Some of these pastors
served two terms. We are not informed who is the present
pastor, but he hails from 'Macon and is not a member of
Walker Association. Brinson Hill has entertained several of
the district meetings of the Association, and in 1895, enter¬
tained the annual meeting of the Association with the greatest
ease. The church while strong has not been greatly benefited
by so many changes in the pastorate. There is a large mem¬
bership scattered over a large territory, and they are mostly
farmers. Rev. T. H. Beasley perhaps had a longer sojourn-
among these people as pastor than any other pajstor among
the number given above, but it has always had a high place
in the confidence of the leaders of the Walker Association.
Of course Deacon Josh Brinson was for a number of years
the leading spirit among the members of the church, and was
the never-failing messenger to the annual meetings. Others
undoubtedly were fully as zealous as was Brother Brinson
but he was more generally known among the brethren of the
Association.
248
SPRINGFIELD, JEFFERSON COUNTY.
The Springfield Church, about eight miles west of Louis¬
ville, Ga., is one of the oldest churches in Walker Baptist As¬
sociation, and has been not only a life member, but one of
those thaj has had more than one meeting of the Association.
It was organized in 1867, with only a few members, lately
emancipated who had but little besides physical strength with
which to erect a house of worship. Rev. Peter Walker was
the first pastor. ' When we consider the great distance be¬
tween Hephzibah, Ga., and Louisville, the former being the
home of Rev. Walker, and remember that there was no rail¬
road at that time running in that direction, we wonder what
must have- been the hardships undergone to reach such an
isolated place. Truly these older preaches were great men
physically as well as great men morally and spiritually. The
following pastors have served them, viz: Revs. P. Walker,
Jason C. Hickmon, Thomas J. Hornsby, Pleasant E. Green,
Harry M. Williams, A. L. D'Antignac, Joseph W. Weaver,
and Robert W. Walker, the present pastor.
The church is in the midst of a thickly populated com¬
munity, and these able men serving from time to time have
not been forced to be idle for the want of some one to make
better, and save. This church not only entertained the Asso¬
ciation in 1889 and 1899, but the Sunday School Convention
and several of the other district meetings of the body, have
met with this people from time to time. A mere glance at
the names of the pastors mentioned above, and a recollection
of the positions of honor and trust held by them in the
Association, will be sufficient to convince the reader -that
Springfield has always looked up the best when in need of a
leader. Hickmon, Ho'rnsby, Williams and Weaver await the
coming of the flock that loved them, on the other shore, while
Rev. Peter Walker still lives with only a faint memory of in¬
cidents associated with his pastorate there. The church has
always enjoyed the greatest prosperity, and today numbers
more than four hundred souls, besrdes the vast number who
249
rest beyond the grave. They are well nigh a unit in all
things pertaining to the best interest of the church.
Two churches went out from Springfield since her organi¬
zation, viz: Harden Grove in the town of Davisboro, and
Gordon Grove,, formerly called Macedonia. Both of these
churches are members of the Walker Association, which
shows that they did not forget their training.
Four Ministers-of this church are dead: Revs. J. Small,
died 1888; E. Burton, 1899; J. J. JacksQn, .1902; and F. P.
Grant, 1902. TKe church has a large number of Deacons, but
we are not personally acquainted with any of them except
A.'S. Gibbons, who has been the most prominent messenger
to the Association for a number of years.
The young man now in charge will not only keep the
work up to its usual standard, but will increase*the importance
of the church if given the right kind of support.
250
CHAPTER 48.
# DALTON, SCREVEN COUNTY.
The Dalton Baptist Church in Screven county was or¬
ganized either in slavery or shortly after emancipation. In the
absence of any information from those who may know we
cannot give the elate of its organization. The church has had
the following pastors, serving in the order given :
Revs. Frank Cooper, Simon Cooper, Redrick Payne, A.
L. D'Antignac 10 years, J. A. P. Broughton 2 years, Jack
Lawson 2 years, R. W. Walker 7 years, R. W. Marshall,
present pastor.
This church was first a member of the Walker Associa¬
tion, but when the Cooper Association was organized it was
one of those who united with that body. After years of ab¬
sence from her first love the church returned to the Walker
Association, and has been one of- the most faithful among
them. The following is a list of the Deacons: Andrew Mims,
Solomon Calhoun, Jesse Alexander, Abner Mc'Culler, Gwin
Lique, Sandy Washington, John Morris,, Jimmie Mims, Char¬
lie Mims and Ben Scott. These names have been furnished
the writer, how many of the number are living and how many
are dead, was not indicated by my informant.
■Rev. Chuyler Jenkins (deceased) was a member of this
church. St. John Church is a branch from this church. Dalton
is so far into the extreme eastern corner of the Association's
territory, no opportunity has ever come to the Association to
hold any of the annual meetings there.
Augusta has furnished four of her pastors, and she is
therefore always in full touch with the work of the Associa¬
tion.
ZION, SCREVEN COUNTY.
This church, located in the same community of Dalton,
is another church of importance and was organized some time
about emancipation. The following ministers have served
from time to time about in the order in which they are given:
Rev. Handy Roberts, W. G. Johnson, A. L. D'Antignac, Jesse
251
Zanders, D. G. Smith, W. S. Brown and E. \V. Burke. The
Deacons are: Abram Bush, Handy Roberts and Cartez Coop¬
er. Perhaps there are others. There is no question about the
ability of the men who have led this old army for these many
years, and certainly out of these blessings, some good in the
way of real Christian intelligence has been done for the good
of the present and unborn generations. Pastors who once
served this church speak in the highest terms of the hospi¬
tality of these people and their respect for any true minister
of the gospel. We could not get further information in time
for this record and so to others the task remains of telling the
minute details of the working of this congregation who must
have passed through many a storm to reach their present
height among the churches of the Walker Association.
PINE HILL, BURKE COUNTY.
Among the churches that deserve prominent mention in
the History of Walker Baptist Association, none is more
worthy than Pine Hill. Like many others it -was organized
with members who had formally held membership with the
white church. We are forced to call them white churches
but the fact is that in a majority of cases, the colored members
far outnumbered the white ones. But certainly no one ever
thought about any equality even in the churches, for as we
have stated in another chapter the majority of the churcha-s
in the days of slavery allowed the negro members to have
their own conference, and in some cases a separate service was
held for them.
Pine Hill was organized in 1869, and soon afterwards
chose as their pastor Rev. J. C. Hickman. They united with
the Ebenezer Association and remained a member of that
body for a considerable while. After the armsof Walker Asso¬
ciation began to reach out and embrace all of the counties
tributary to Augusta, Ga., the Pine Hill church decided to
unite with the Walker. Rev. R. Scott, H. H. Owens, C. Wat-
kins, W. W. Jones, S. P. Campbell and S. W. Washington.
In 1875 the Association held her annual meeting with this
church, and that of itself shows that the church has never
252
been a stranger to the men and the policies of Walker Associa¬
tion. Deacon William Bostic seems to be the most prominent
deacon; he like some few others never misses any of the an¬
nual meetings. Two churches went out from Pine Hill, viz:
Grays Grove, where the next meeting of the 'Association is
to be held, and McCullers Covenant. There are five ministers
among her dead: J. C. Hickman, died 1899; Abram Hart,
died 1887; John Harden; Benjamin Fisher, died Aug. 1890,
and James Clark, died 1906. These and others fully as worthy
rest beyond the grave, associating with the v\st throng who
saw battle on the same field, and who did much in life to
strengthen the work carried on by the Walker Baptist Asso¬
ciation.
ST. PHILLIP, SWAINSBORO, GA.
This church is to Swainsboro what the First (Baptist is
to Stilniore. Located in one of the most progressive" towns
of the State where the need of a strong church is imperative,
it not only has a mission to carry out in the name of Walker
Baptist Association, but a greater one in the name of God.
We could not get from those in charge any definite under¬
standing as to when this church was organized or what has
been her most notable achievement, but from our personal
knowledge of the church, it is full worthy of mention among
the rest of the churches which have made the great Walker
Association what it is today in the eyes of the people not only
of this, but other States.
None of the annual meetings of the Association have
been held with this church except the meeting of the Walker
Baptist Sunday School Convention, which was held there
under the ministration of Rev. C. L. Lawrence. Indeed noth¬
ing much was known of the church by the leaders of the
Association as a whole until the convention met there about
seven years ago.
Rev. G. S. Kilpatrick was called to succeed Rev. Law¬
rence, and for a few years it seemed that he would eclipse
the combined records of all his predecessors, but suddenly
253
there was a misunderstanding, and Rev. Kilpatrick left the
church. Rev. W. H. Bessent of Waynesboro was then called
and served one year. Rev. C. J. Jones is the present pastor.
We regret that we cannot give a complete history of this
church, but it is in every way strong and progressive.
McELMURRAY SPRINGS, GREENS CUT, GA.
This church was organized A. D. 1874, with members
from older churches living in that community. About nine
members entered into the organization, and called Rev. A. J.
Walker as pastor. The names of the succeeding pastors are
as follows: Revs. R. Whitehead, N. Wilkerson, T. W.
Walker, Jack Lawson, Kitt Jones, 5 years, and Rev. W. W.
Jones, the present pastor, has served eight years already.
^During the ministration of Rev. Whitehead the church
grew and baptisms were very constant, coming largely from
the Plantation Prayer Meetings, which was a very valuable
help to the churches at that time, when no path was too rough
or crooked to be traveled the darkest night, if it led; to the
place where in the old fashioned way real Christians could
enjoy the service that to the present generation would be an
opportunity for indulgence in any sin that human flesh could
crave.
Rev. Wilkerson was no less successful, for he as did his
predecessor lived among the people he served.
Rev. T. W. Walker was a great drawing card as a preach¬
er, but was never a desirable pastor for the reason he was
never content for any considerable length of time in any field,
no matter how promising. Rev. Kitt Jones was a great suc¬
cess at this church, and he remained five years. Rev. W. W.
Jones, the present pastor, by reason of his ability and the in-
teligence of the people who are now in control of the affairs
of the church, has already surpassed any of those who passed
before him. The Deacons are: A. G. Ellison, M. Smith, H. C.
Jones, R. T. Thomas, Wm. Williams and Ben Wimberly.
These men live, but there are quite a number of the once
faithful resting beyond the grave. *
254
CHAPTER 49.
THOMSON BRIDGE, BURKE COUNTY.
This church is just beginning its career as a separate and
distinct organization. It is a branch from the fBottsford Spring
Church, of which Rev. W. W. Jones was once pastor. Rev.
Jones, having been called to Bottsford Church to succeed Rev.
W. H. Bessent, labored successfully for certain changes,
which he thought necessary for the best interest of the church.
His first step after a ^ime was to ordain a number of new
deacons, this act was not approved by a majority of the older
deacons, and hence the foundation for a long and painful dis¬
pute was laid. After a wrangle that became very grievous be¬
fore its close, a large number of members, about 200 in all,
withdrew from the old church and under the leadership of
Rev. W. W. Jones, organized a new church under the name
of Thomson Bridge Church. This was in July 1908, but of
course they had been worshiping together in the new spot
for several months before the organization was effected. A
council was called composed of both white and colored Bap¬
tists to consider the orthodoxy of the new church. After a
lengthy discussion of the entire situation it was decided that
the new church was thoroughly orthodox, and accordingly it
was admitted to membership in the Walker Baptist Associa¬
tion at its meeting at Augusta, September, 1908.
The following are deacons: James Mingledoph, M. Gray,
H. J. Jones, H. Lively and E. Freeman. Rev. W. W. Jones is
still serving
MURPHEY EBENEZER, BURKE COUNTY.
This church is one of the important churches of the
Walker Baptist Association, and has enjoyed the pastorate of
some of the formost men in its bounds. In the absence of any
definite information from the present officers who may be
familiar with the history of this church, we are oblied to write
from our personal knowledge. Rev. W. G. Johnson was pas7
tor when he was a very young man. How long he served is
255
not known. He was followed by Rev. H. C. Lane who serve
for quite a number of years. After the death of Rev. H- •
Lane, Rev. J. L. Lowry of Louisville was called to succee
him. Among the deacons may be mentioned: Hector Hilton,
Willie Powell and Henry Utly. The church is many miles
from any railroad and therefore has not had the constant
visits of the leading brethren and the different annual meet¬
ings of the Association.
GRAYS GROVE, BURKE COUNTY.
The Grays Grove Baptist Church so long pastored by
Rev. H. C. Lane (deceased), is in an important farming dis¬
trict of Burke county, about six miles from the town of
Waynesboro. The Walker Association will meet with her
in 1909. With a membership of only 150, it is quite an un¬
dertaking. Grays Grove was admitted to membership in the
Association A. D. 1880, with a membership of not more than
150, but the number has steadily increased until they have
reached a splendid working force. Grays Grove was brought
to prominence in the Association by both the prominence
of her pastor and her willingness to play her part in support¬
ing the work in which the body was engaged. In the Walker
Association churches are not recognized so much on account
of the large membership, as they are on account of what they
accomplish. In every emergency when financial obligations
pressed the management of Walker Baptist Institute, an ap¬
peal to this liberal congregation always met with a hearty
response. Rev. Lane was a devoted Sunday School worker
and through his kind invitation the Sunday School Conven¬
tion held one of her most fruitful meetings there. Only a
few years ago Brother Lane, who had served this church from
its organization, passed away, and Rev. J. iW. Weaver, a
prominent pastor and member of this church passed away
also in 1908, and both of them rests beneath the sod of the
old church yard, in graves vjpt far apart.
Rev. W. H. Bessent of Waynesboro was called to suc¬
ceed Rev. Lane, and he has already proven himself to be the
256
REV. C. J. JONES,
Pastor cf Four Churches and Trustee of Walker Baptist Association.
right man in the right place. He has assocaited with him
some strong officers: G. H. Fuller, arid Jonas McCuller, and
others of equal influence, who will doubtless keep the church
up to the old standard in real and earnest giving to every
good cause that ought to appeal to a Christian people.
JOB SPRING, BURKE COUNTY.
Among the churches of 'Burke county, Job Spring stands
among the very foremost. It was organized in 1878.
Rev. James Kelsey was the first pastor and served two
years, and from his time the following pastors served :
Rev. H. C. Lane, 5 years; Rev. W. H. Bessent, 3 years;
Rev. A. S. Wright, 3 years; Rev. H. C. Lane, second term, 4
years; Rev. W. H. Whitfield, three years; Rev. Kitt Jones,
two years. Rev. E. (W. Burke is the present pastor, and is
giving perfect satisfaction. Loyalty to the work of the Asso¬
ciation has always been the test applied to all the churches
composing the body, and Job Spring has stood it well. There
was a very rapid increase under Rev. Lane's ministration, both
in members and popularity. Rev. Bessent was from the very
beginning a suitable successor, and though young, was re¬
garded as one of the best pastors that ever led these people.
Rev. A. S. Wright was not adapted to the pastorate, but suc¬
ceeded in baptizing a number of happy souls. When in the
course of time the church decided to recall Rev. H. C. Lane,
he received the cordial support of the body as they knew not
only his polic}r but his love. The first five of these pastors
were from the country, but the last two are citizens of Au¬
gusta, Ga. We know not how distant the time may be when
these churches which now constitute the Great Walker Asso¬
ciation will ries to that degree of prominence and power that
each one of them will demand the full time of their pastors,
then will the kingdom of the Lord come, and our people fully
realize the great value of constant and efficient leadership.
257
CHAPTER 50.
DANIEL GROVE, BURKE COUNTY.
The above named church was organized A. D. 1891. Rev.
Caesar Proctor was the first pastor, and he was followed by
the following Brethren: Revs. T. H. Matthis, J. W. Weaver,
M. B. Buxton, J. W. Weaver second term, and T M. Sapp
who is the present pastor. We were not furnished with any
information concerning the length of time served by these
different pastors, but all of them were faithful workers for the
educational work of the Walker Association. It is true that
Rev. Weaver accomplished more than any of his predecessors,
not only because he served two terms, but also because the
people seemed to follow him more willingly than any of those
who went in and out among them from time to time.
In 1891, she was admitted to membership in the Associa¬
tion with just 40 members, but they have increased to about
75 living souls, to say nothing of the little host who are rest¬
ing beyond the grave. Two of their former leaders are dead,
viz: Revs. Proctor, and Weaver. Rev. Thomas M. Sapp,
who is now in charge, is a young man, bright in intellect, and
still a student in the Walker Baptist Institute. Among the
strong force of officers may be mentioned Deacons J. A. Hand-
kinson, (B. J. Heath, L. V. Smallwood, W. J. Rouse, J. H.
Griffin and J. D. Smallwood.
Daniel Grove flourishes among a number of older churches
and has always given substantial support to the work in
which the Association is engaged.
NEW SPRINGFIELD, BURKE COUNTY.
This old and well established church has been the meeting
place of some of the largest delegations ever sent to represent
the churches of the Walker Baptist Association. It is per¬
haps the oldest daughter of Bottsfords Spring Chruch and has
enjoyed the leadership of some of the ablest men of Walker
Association. Rev. Louis B. Carter, one of the first mission-
258
afies was the first pastor, we are not sure how long he served,
but in the course of time he was succeeded by Rev. R. White¬
head. From that time until now the following have served:
H. 'C. Lane, A. S. 'Wright,'T. W. Walker, G. J. Campbell, S.
W. H. Murray and C. J. Jones. Under these different leaders
the church has enjoyed a long season of prosperity. The
members are mostly farmers-on a large scale, many of them
owning extensive tracks of land on which they raise many
necessities of life. There are about 340 members representing
the better class of citizens. Prominent among the officers
are P. J. Jones, T. G. Gray, Willie Gordon, I. M. Marbly,
George Cooper, Stephen Scott, Oliver Allen and Warren
Marbly. These men are well known and stand for the indus¬
trial possibilities of the race.
The second Springfield church in the same community is
the daughter of this old church. Having past her fortieth
birthday, she is in better position than ever to influence the
conduct of her sister churches.
DOYLE GROVE.
This church is in Burke County almost on the line of
Richmond near the town of Blythe. Most of the people who
took part in the first movement to establish a church there
were adherents to another faith, but the soil of that community
was unfavorable to the growth of any except the principals for
which the Baptist stand. This church was organized in 1885
with a small band of members who came from distant churches
and had settled in that community. When the church came
to the notice of the general public Rev. Butler Drisley of Au¬
gusta was pastor. As an orthodox minister he was not all
that a Baptist church desired, and hence for a long time the
church was not heartily fellowshiped by the neighboring
churches. .During this period however the church was not a
member of Walker Association. Rev. J. S. Campfield, of Keys-
ville, was called to succeed Rev. Drisley. He served for
quite a number of years, carried the church into the Walker
Association, baptized many souls, built a comfortable house of
259
worship, and in short brought about many necessary and
radical changes. Even when Rev. Campfield's sailing was no
longer smooth, there were many to enter a solemn protest
against his retirement. Rev. R.. W. Walker was the next
pastor and he is serving still, though he has been in charge
but a few years he has done much in bringing to the support
of the church, not only the scattered and indifferent members,
but also the friends and followers of other churches as well.
The following are deacons: Cato Calhoun, M. B. Bland, J. C.
Holy, A. Pugh, I. H. Williams, Willis King, Willie Prior and
James Hankinson.
PORTERSVILLE, near Waynesboro, Ga., was organized
about 1896. This however markes the year when she joined
the Association. At the#time of admission into the Walker
Association nothing was said about its numerical strength,
but the following year she reported a total membership of 42.
The first and only pastor was Rev. W. H. Bessent, of Waynes¬
boro. He has been to them a preacher, teacher and father.
By the most faithful efforts he has increased the membership
to nearly 100, in the thirteen years he has served them. Among
the Deacons may be mentioned, Alex Barns and Julius Jones.
No church has gone out from them and the work is in a most
healthy condition.
MURPHEY EBENEZER, Burke County, is one of the
older churches of the Walker Baptist Association. It united
with the body about 1871, and has been one of the faithful
supporters of the work. Revs. W. G. Johnson, D. D., H. C.
Lane and J. L. Lowry are among the prominent pastors who
have looked after this charge since its organization. The Dea¬
cons are: Brothers Hector Hilton, Willie Powell and Henry
Utly. The present membership is 135, as reported at the last
annual meeting,, but on account of the locality of the church,
so near the river as we might better say entirely to on side
of the bounds, it has been almost impossible to hold any of
the annual meetings even of the auxiliary bodies with them.
260
ST. MERRIEN, near Shell Bluff, is another one of the
churches of the Association that on account of its remoteness
is not well known to many of the brethren of the body. Rev.
B. B. Berrien is the efficient pastor and the membership is 40.
ROCK HILL, Burke County, is one of the churches far
removed from the railroad, and is maintained by 63 of the
most prosperous farmers of the county in which it is located.
Rev. iW. G. Farmer is the present pastor. Since the organiza¬
tion Rev. Virgil Williams of Millen has served them.
261"
CHAPTER si.
FIRST BAPTIST, MILLEN, GA.
The First .Baptist Church of Millen was truly the First
colored Baptist church planted in that town. Until then Need¬
ful church three miles out in the country was about the only
Baptist church of Walker Association near the town. Rev.
Nathan Walker, and his son Rev. A. J. Walker, together with
Rev. J. S. Kelsey, all favored the movement for the establish¬
ment of a new church within the limits of the iown, and ac¬
cordingly the First Baptist Church was organized A. D. 1885,
by Rev. N. Walker and others, with about seven' members
from the above named church. Rev. J. S. Kelsey was the first
pastor, and under him the infant church grew and prospered.
The pastor was also a school teacher, and followed his regular
occupation during the week, and preached the gospel on the
Sabbath. Rev. Kelsey served until he accepted a position as
a State Missionary, and indeed he served on for several months
after he accepted the position. When he resigned Rev. S. D.
Rosier was called to the pastorate. No man among the suc¬
ceeding. pastors had a more brilliant start than did Rev. Rosier.
For years he was master of the entire situation, baptizing
annually quite a number of souls and raising the people to a
higher standard of righteousness. Under him such Deacons
as Brother Joseph Reynolds, Robert Williams and Buxton
served. The administration which had been of such interest
among the people of the town, both white and colored, was
somewhat abruptly ended on account of a serious misunder¬
standing between pastor and officers. At first Rev. Rosier
refused to yield to the wishes of those who opposed him by
resigning the charge, but after several months of religious
warfare, during which the church was closed by the arm of
the law, he retired and the scattered sheep returned to the fold.
Rev. W. A. McCloud of Wadley, was the next pastor. He
served for about three years and baptized many. He was a
very faithful worker, especially in building up the Sunday
School. Rev. R. J. Johnson was called Sept. 1900, and took
262
charge in October of that year. He found the church in the
hands of Deacons Joseph Reynolds,, Robert Williams, James
Carpenter and Oliver Crumbly. These men had stood the
storms through which the church had passed and stood a
unit to welcome the new pastor to his charge. In eight months
after Rev. Johnson took charge, the membership had been
increased from about 75 to 150. This ratio of increase has
been kept up until the membership is now nearly Three Hun¬
dred. Rev. Johnson ordained the following deacons: Dan
Bohler, William Dwight, Jordan Bryant, Jack Powell and
Morris Gay. Brother James Fields is also one of the most
faithful among the Deacons, he was also among the officers
set apart by Rev. S. D. Dozier. Since 1903 the following
has been dropped from the roll of officers: Morris Gay and
Dan Bohler.
The congregation now worships in a neat house erected
by Rev. Johnson, the present pastor, which cost more than
$2,000. The church was organized 1885, and is decidedly the
leading church among the colored citizens of Jenkins county.
The Sunday School flourishes,, and the Ladies Missionary
Society, under Mrs. Laura E. Simpkins as President, is doing
much for the cause of missions and education in the bounds
of Walker Association and the General State Baptist Conven¬
tion as well.
MACEDONIA, AUGUSTA.
The Macedonia Church of Augusta of which Rev. W. W.
Jones is now pastor was organized October 10, 1896. Rev.
Aaron Green, deceased, was the first pastor. He was one of
those among the fathers who kept the gate of the city.
Shortly after organization, the church united with the old
Ebenezer Association that was then holding in her membership
most of the Baptist churches of nearly half of the State of
Georgia. Rev. Green remained pastor of this church until the
day of his death. His term was so long that many called him
Father iGreen before his death. It would take a whole volumn
to describe the work done by this consecrated man, whose
very face was an inspiration to the young to live Godly lives.
263
After his death the church went without a pastor for
awhile out of respect to him, but finally called to the pastorate
the Rev. I. A. McNeal, a young man whose zeal far surpassed
his strength. He was soon called away by death, and once
more the church had thrust upon them the tedious task of
selecting a man who could steer the course of the old ship that
had seen many years of service.
The mind of the officers were directed toward the city
of Savannah where a young man in the person of Rev. G. W.
Harrison lived, and after he had been heard by the people,
he was made the unanimous choice of the church for their
pastor. Rev. Harrison rendered faithful service until he was
called to succeed Rev. E. V. White at several churches in
the counties of Columbia, McDuffie and Lincoln. In order
to accept a part of this work, he resigned the pastorate
of Macedonia, and ere long Rev. Warren W. Jones was called
to secceed him.
r It was in 1903 when Rev. Harrison resigned, and since
that time under the last pastor the church has enjoyed a
steady increase. Rev. Jones took hold when the people were
very much discouraged because all efforts to repair the house
of worship had for some reason failed, and to restore confi¬
dence and remodel the church without further delay. In a
very short while he was proven to be the master of the situa¬
tion, and today we see one of the most comfortable church
buildings among the colored Baptist of the city.
What ever the future may hold in the way of hardships
for Rev. Jones, he has already made for himself a name.
Though Macedonia church is one of the latest additions
to the Walker Association, she has for the last few years
stood the test which is usually applied to the churches of
Walker Baptist Association, namely, loyalty to Walker Bap¬
tist Institute. The Deacons are Henry Johnson, John Gilbert
and William C. Chestnut. Macedonia entertained the Associa¬
tion in 1908, and it was a royal entertainment indeed.
264
WAYS GROVE, STELLAVILLE, GA.
We have had much difficulty trying to gather information
about this church that enjoys the distinction of being the
place where Walker Baptist Association was born. The pas¬
tors in charge since the first of 1908, have disappointed us
about the report, and so as the time comes to close this work,
we are forced to write from what we know from long ac¬
quaintance with the field.
This church according to the best information obtainable,
was organized with several members who under the advice of
the wite Baptist church by the same name, of which they were
members, drew out in 1867 and formed a new church. Of
course the readers who retain any recollection of the policy
of the white churches after emancipation, will understand
that these infant negro churches were not left alone without
the sympathy of the white churches. And indeed the quiet
withdrawal of the negro members of the several white
churches, without making any demand for a share of the prop¬
erty was perhaps the one great cause of kindness shown to the
race by many white farmers who gave land and material to
the negroes to build houses of worship. Rev. Alford Young
was the first pastor of whom we have any knowledge. He
served the church long and faithfully. Somehow, this church
inherited fame, and popularity, for it has always stood next
to Franklin Covenant in age, intelligence, general popularity
and' in the production of strong and invincible leaders. ■
After the death of Rev. Alford Young, Rev. Thomas G.
Green was called to succeed him, he served one or two years
and was then succeeded by Rev. Thomas J. Hornsby, who
served until the day of his death, November, 1901. Under
Rev. Hornsby's administration Ways Grove flourished as
never before. Hundreds were baptized, many ministers and
deacons were ordained, and a creditable house of worship
erected. There is absolutely no way to determine the extent
of his irrisistable influence over the lives of both young and
old who esteemed him as a father and guide. When he was
no longer in the midst of the living Rev. S. C. Walker was
called to succeed him. This young man, a new recruit of the
265
already strong force of prominent preachers of Walker Asso¬
ciation, assumed leadership supported by the prayers and best
wishes of a host of people who always thought favorably of
Ways Grove. One of the most conspicuous achievements of
Rev. Walker was the creating of a more healthy sentiment in
favor of Walker Baptist Institute. Having been called to
Thankful Baptist Church, Waynesboro, Ga., Dec. 1908, Rev.
Walker resigned Ways .Grove and Rev. S. J. Williams of Au¬
gusta was called to succeed him.
PALMERS GROVE, GREEN'S CUT, GA.
The Palmer Grove Baptist Church, of Green's Cut, Ga.,
is also one of the oldest churches in the Walker Association,
and has a membership that is proud to be known. No church
has been more prosperous that Palmers Grove. From the
days of her first pastor, Rev. R. Whitehead, she has enjoyed
supremacy over all of the churches of that section of Burke
county. We have no definite information when this church
was organized, as we have failed in all of our efforts to get
from those in charge such information as we would like to
give to the public. According to the best information at hand
the line of pastors in order were as follows: R. Whitehead,
Thomas Martin, T. J. Hornsby, W. jG. Johnson, Solomon
Cummings, and S. C. Walker. Of these pastors Revs. White¬
head, Martin, Hornsby and Cummings rest beyond the grave.
In the days of old when it was fashionable for churches in
the rural districts to put off the funeral of the dead for several
.months, Palmers Grove was one of the places where thous¬
ands gathered to hear the preachers of that day, among whom
for funeral occasions Rev. Martin was the greatest.
There is a very large and influential membership, num¬
bering about 400. They are scattered all over (Burke County.
Several meetings of the Association has been held in this
church, the last one in 1907. As to the liberality of Palmers
Grove, it is hardly worth while speaking, she has supported
Walker Baptist Institute and every other cause that finds
favor with the Association. Among the faithful deacons are
266
Robert Carr, G. H. Walker, Roman Mitchel, Shack Jones, and
many others whose names we failed to remember. A few
years ago a new house of worship built by the Rev. S. C.
Walker, was completely destroyed by fire one Sunday after¬
noon. No one has ever been able to decide what caused the
fire, some thought it was lightning, others thought that it was
the work of some enemy. They had just completed it and
with fitting ceremony gave it to the Lord. When the sad in¬
telligence came to the pastor's ears, he without a day's wait,
went down and gathered his forces together and in less than
three months another building larger and decidedly more ex¬
pensive stood in its stead.
The property of the church is worth about $2,000 (two
thousand dollars), and stands as a monument to the vigilence
of'the members and the unfaultering faith of the pastor, Rev.
S. C. Walker.
267
CHAPTER 52.
THANKFUL, WAYNESBORO, GA.
This church had a very humble beginning, but on account
of its connection with the infancy of /Walker Baptist Institute,
it has always been known to all the people of the Walker
Association. It will be remembered that shortly after its or¬
ganization, a house of worship formerly held by the Thomas
Grove Church was lost to that church, and at public outcry
it was sold to the Trustees of the Walker Baptist Association
for a school house in which to open the Walker High School.
Thankful church purchased this property from the Walker
Association in 1882 for three hundred dollars, and under the
leadership of Rev. W. G. Johnson, pastor, started on a bril¬
liant career. When Rev. Johnson took charge the congrega¬
tion numbered about 15, and to a man with less courage than
he, the task of building up a strong church would have ap¬
peared a hopeless one. Under his administration a large and
comfortable house of worship was erected, and the number of
members geratly increased. The white citizens of Waynes¬
boro took pride in the church largely on account of the popu¬
larity of the pastor. The church entertained the meeting of
the Walker Association in 1897, and also the Sunday School
Convention in 1902.
For a long time this church also cared for the members of
the Executive Board of the Walker Association, who were
often called to Waynesboro to look after the interests of the
Walker High School, which was located in Waynesboro for
the first ten years of its existence. When Rev. Johnson re¬
signed to give his full time to his new field at Macon, Ga., Rev.
C. S. Wilkins, D. D., was called to succeed him . There was
such a wide difference between Dr. Wilkins and his predeces¬
sor that it was impossible to reconcile all of the .forces to the
policy of the new pastor. There was another bone of con¬
tention, a ghost that would not down. Dr. Wilkins being a
member of the old Missionary Baptist Convention with which
Thankful Church did not affiliate, he was not all that the
church desired as a leader who would.interest himself in the
268
work of the body to which the church belonged, and for which
she was always willing to make a sacrifice. Under his admin¬
istration many were added to the church by baptism and
toward the close of his ministration the house of worship was
totally destroyed by fire. A new and costly house of worship
was erected on a new and better spot, but before it was com¬
pleted the church rejected the further services of Dr. Wilkins
as pastor, and Rev. S.'C. iWalker, D. D., was called to succeed
him. Rev. Walker took charge in April 1909, and seems to be
the right man in the right place.
PIERCE GROVE, JEFFERSON COUNTY, GA.
This little church has some smooth, and some rough sail¬
ing. It was organized by Revs. John Thomas, P. E. Green,
S. P. Pitts, and has had the following pastors: John Thomas,
P. E. Green, S. P. Pitts, H. M. Williams, C. T. King, M.
T. J. Jones. All of these men were of some prominence in
the councils of the Walker Baptist Association. Revs. S. P.
Pitts and H. M. Williams are both dead, but they were faith¬
ful in their day. Rev. S. P. Pitts died in the fall of 1905. This
church from its beginning has had a slow but steady increase,
and has been one of the most loyal supporters of the Walker
Baptist Association. Perhaps Rev. Pitts accomplished more
as a leader than any of his successors or predecessors. Rev.
H. M. Williams was a man of power and he gathered many
around him while he was leader. There has been no rapid
increase in membership, for while the church is well on in
years, they still number not more than 60. Her work has been
greatly overshadowed by larger churches, but the flag of the
Master never trails in the dust.
SAN CLAIR, WAD LEY, GA.
This church we have known for sometime as one of the
most intelligent and most progressive churches connected
with the Walker Association. It ranks with Ways Grove,
Pine Hill, Springfield, Needful, Covenant, Palmers Grove, and
other large and liberal churches of the body.
269
It was organized A. D. 1877, by Revs. John Thomas, Al-
for Young and E. Burton. Rev. Thomas was elected pastor
after the organization was completed, and for a term of years
he served the flock with that degree of earnestness and wis¬
dom that made for the young church many friends. Indeed
Rev. Thomas was one of the old builders, a man who was
never afraid of a rough task, if out of it the Master would get
any glory. Rev P. E. Green was called to succeed Rev. Thom¬
as, and he too rendered faithful service. The next pastor was
Rev. Thomas Green, of Matthew, Ga. The rest of the pastors
served in the following order: J. J. Davis, T. W. Walker,
H. C. Lane, J. W. Weaver and Rev. A. L. D'Antignac, the
present pastor. San Clair has from time to time entertained
not only the annual meeting of Walker Association, but the
Sunday School Convention as "well. From its organization it
has been a member of the same Association, and all of her
pastors have come from that body. San Clair has also been
for a number of years one of the most loyal supporters of the
Sunday School Convention, and in fact any cause represented
by any person or organization connected with Walker Asso¬
ciation can get a hearing before the people of this church.
Since the organization, thirty-two years ago, two churches
have gone out: First Baptist, of Wadley, and Solomon Tem¬
ple, of Moxley, Ga. Both are young but are doing quite well.
Under the leadership of Rev D'Antignac, the present
pastor, there has been success along all lines. He, like those
who preceeded him, has kept in touch with every movement
launched for the betterment of the whole people, and also the
glory of God. He is a safe, positive and invincible leader,
whose experience is worth much to any community. The
members are now scattered all over Jefferson county, and
strong young men and women from her Sunday School take
rank among the leaders of Walker Sunday School Conven¬
tion. We know not how many have been baptized there in
these thirty-two years, but even now after two churches have
gone out from among them, the membership still numbers
nearly 400. Rev. J. J. Jenkins, one of their ordained ministers,
died only a few months ago.
270
SOME CHURCHES OF WALKER ASSOCIATION
WHO>SE HISTORY COULD NOT BE SECURED.
After several months effort, we utterly failed to get re¬
ports from the pastors in charge of the churches below, and
therefore cannot give to the public even a brief summary of
what they have done in connection wuh the Walker Asso¬
ciation. This complaint is made against the pastors who were
in charge of the churches in the year 1908, for it was during
that year that every pastor in the bounds was sent blanks with
the request that they fill them and return as early as possible.
The churches which have not been reported are as follows:
UNION BAPTIST, Augusta, Ga., This church is one of
those that united with the Walker Association in the last few
years. It is one of the most popular churches of the body, and
is composed of an intelligent membership. Among them may
be found some of the best the race has produced. The mem¬
bership is about 350, and the present pastor is the Rev.
Thomas H. Dwelle, of Augusta.
WHITES GROVE. This church is at Adrian, Ga. Mem¬
bership 50, and the pastor in charge is Rev. C. J. Jones, of
Waynesboro. ,
ROCK HILL. This church is in Screven county, in a
large farming district. Rev. W. |G. Farmer is the present pas¬
tor, and the membership is about 65.
SOLOMON TEMPLE, near Wadley, Ga., is yet a babe
among the older churches. Rev. R. A. Harman is in charge,
and the communicants are 15-
JONES GROVE, in McDuffie county, is possibly a branch
from Poplar Head Church, near Dearing, Ga. It is one of the
older churches of the Walker Association, but for some reason
the growth has been somewhat slow.
271
ST. MARY, near Metter, Ga., has since her union with the
Walker Association been one of the most faithful. Rev. B. B.
Berrien of 'Millen is the progressive pastor and the member¬
ship numbered about 70 at the last report, and is steadily in¬
creasing.
ST. JOHN, Greymont, Ga., is a young church, but it has
an invincible leader in the person of Rev. W. S. Dickerson of
Millen. When they made their last report the membership
was 53.
ROUNTREE ISLAND, near Midville, Ga., is one of the
older churches. It is far removed from the School, but has
always been a very loyal supporter of the work. There are
70 members led by the faithful Rev. R. Malone.
FARMERS GROVE, near Kite, is pastored by Rev. J. L.
Lowry, of Louisville, Ga. The number of members were not
given at the last annual meeting of the Association.
COCHRAN GROVE, Rev. N. B. Buxton pastor. This
church is in Burke County, and has a membership of 68.
RED HILL, Burke county, is one of our small churches,
the present pastor is Rev. A. Jackson, and the membership is
about 20.
HATCHERS FAIRFIELD, Burke county, has a total
membership of ten, and they have as their leader Rev. L. H.
Barnes of Shell Bluff.
BELL GROVE, near Waynesboro, has a membership of
five, and they are making a creditable showing under the
leadership of the Rev. J. T. Taylor of Waynesboro.
SECOND McCOY, of Jenkins county, is a branch from old
McCoy. It was organized in 1887, but on account of a long
272
REV. W. H. BES3ENT,
Pastor of Grays Grove and Trustee of Walker Association,
and painful disturbance, it was not recognized by the Asso¬
ciation until about 1890. The present membership is about
65, and Rev. 'W. F. Brown is pastor.
GREEN BRANCH, near (Green's Cut, Ga., is one of the
older churches of the Association. It is claimed by some who
have been in touch with the work for a number of years, that
it is practically a second growth of Piny Grove Church which
existed in the days of Slavery, and which was dissolved be¬
fore emancipation. The present membership is more than
one hundred, and they have as their leader the Rev. N. Thomas
of Augusta.
STANIEL UNION, at Keysville, is a very small congre¬
gation now pastored by Rev. J. S. Campfield, of Keysville, Ga.
It is about three years old, having 'been brought into the
Association by Rev. E. W. Washington in 1907.
FRAZIERVILLE, near Augusta, is almost near enough
to the city to be called one of its churches. It is located in a
territory where its increase cannot be rapid, on account of
the proximity of larger churches.
273
CHAPTER 53.
A FINAL SUMMING UP.
In these strenuous times when men and measures are
pressing for our favorable consideration, and when every
means of communication is engaged to convey to a listening
public the gratitude of those who through grace have been
the beneficiaries of countless blessings at the hands of others,
and at a time like this when a universal brotherhood is striv¬
ing to bring about a more perfect understanding of the things
which concern our social, religious, political and educational
welfare, what's wrong if we appeal to the sympathies of a
thoroughly generous people whose superior strength make
them the keepers of their less fortunate brethren?
Every day we see Lazarus in the form of some struggling
institution, lying at the gate in real need of the crumbs that
fall from the table of those, whose hearts in a large measure
have been hardened by the frequency of 'these appeals, and a
very perfect knowledge of how they multiply. The custom
of helping struggling institutions to any appreciable extent is
losing popularity with receeding years, so that those who
have needs that ought to appeal to the best that is in man can
scarcely 'be seen in the midst of that bewildering mass of
towering institutions, that hold a monopoly on the attentions
of the very people, whose consideration would inspire the
direct benefactors,, and give that kind of prestige, without
which neither men nor measures can achieve many victories.
Walker Baptist Institute, at Augusta,, Ga., has a history
that if written and read in its fulness, would convince the
mDst chronic unbeliever in the inteligence and possibilities of
the race, to conclude, that he who would come to the financial
relief of this institution would be of untold good to the present
and unborn generations, whose needs will increase as time
flies and as responsibilities rapidly come.
As we witness present conditions, and realize that the
power to overcome them is not in our keeping, we wonder
sometimes whether or not our persistent appeals, and our
unfaltering efforts to maintain an institution that stands for
274
the moral, industrial and intellectual uplift of one race of the
world's great family, will ever commend us to those upon
whom some of the blessings of God have fallen in greater
abundance.
The'territory occupied by Walker Baptist Association has
been no play ground, under almost any old hill may be found
the unmarked graves of the heroes and heroines, who never
realized their fondest hope, and who carried with them to the
grave visible signs of a struggle, that for years engaged many
of the hours that Divine wisdom appointed for absolute rest
from the cares and responsibilities that are inseparably em¬
braced in human existence. Review those dead, but not for¬
gotten years. Walk through that perfect wilderness of un¬
certainties that crowded th^ brain of the fathers, take one
journey across a rough 'country way enroute to one of the
early meetings of the Association, listen carefully to the hope¬
ful views expressed by brethren who knew they would not
survive the time that would mark the schools highest develop¬
ment. And then go on and watch their whitened locks and
wrinkled faces as they kissed away tfie grief of the young men,
who with just money enough for one month's board launched
out to obtain something in the way of an education that would
fit them for the tremendous obligations that their emancipa¬
tion involved.
See here and there in the assembly the faces bathed in
tears as they listened with unrestrained emotion to the im¬
proved preaching by their sons, and then see if you can har¬
monize the scene with the inactivities of the present well-
favored of today, who in the light of modern civilization can
better recognize their duty to God, and to the teeming mil¬
lions of human souls, who at best for many generations to
come will still be numbered among God's poor.
Until man looses the moral image of his Creator, and
sinks to the level of the brute he cannot restrain that God-
given ambition to continue in the ascendancy, nor can he sat¬
isfy that earnest craving after knowledge which is character¬
istic of any creature that is capable of endless progression
beyond the grave.
275
'Whatever Walker Baptist Association is in advance of
other Associations in the State, due credit must be given to
the lofty ideals of the founders who knew not to what great
end the Lord was using them. The workers of today while
praying for an enlargement of necessary facilities for operat¬
ing a school that can point with pride to an unbroken history
of unquestioned usefulness, are answering their own prayers
as far as they are able, and will guarantee its continuance as
long as it is possible for human effort to warrant the existence
of any trust. The graduates going forth from Walker Baptist
Institute meet with success in the many fields of usefulness,
because they are made to understand that no amount of
learning furnishes an excuse for idleness. We do not appeal
to the general public, on account of what we have done and
are still doing for the young men and women, but because of
what these same young men and women have done for you.
There is absolutely no escape from the benefits derived from
any institution 'that makes out of our boys and girls Christian
citizens, fitted for any sphere of usefulness that guarantees an
honest support from labor performed.
As I write these last words, I pause to reflect, that long
years after I shall have passed into the great beyond, some
eye will fall upon this story of the doings of our ancestors,
and from these sketches draw lessons of manifested love, and
paint them according to the thought of that day. I may not
have any interest then,, in what the next historian writes,
but let me deposit as the last thought, unselfishly uttered, that
it may be that others may witness achievements surpassing in
grandeur any thing conceived by the present workers, but we
call God for our faithful witness that for these years we have
laid on the altar, the best of the Lord's portion for the moral,
intellectual and spiritual emancipation of a race who today, is
engaged in an unequal and exciting contest with other races
who have had hundreds of years of the highest civilization.
THE END.
276
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
Page.
CHAPTER 1—1868, 1869, 1870,, 1871, 1872—Organization—First Offi¬
cers—Territory Covered—First Churches—Rev. Joseph Walker—
Change in Leader—Unpopularity of Missionary 'Baptist Conven¬
tion 7
CHAPTER 2—Years 1873, 1874, 1875, 1876, 1877—Influence of Mis¬
sionaries—'First Missionary Report—Government Schools in the
•Churches—First Roll of Ministers 14
CHAPTER 3—1878, 1879, 1880—The Interest of White Baptist—
A .Decision on Egypt Walking—The First Dollar for Walker
Institute—The First Executive Board—Dr. C. T. Walker on
Education 18
CHAPTER 4—1881, 1882, 18S3—The First Principals Report—Re¬
jection of Frank Cooper Association—Effort to Establish a
Sunday School Convention—First Financial Disturbance—Dr.
Walker a Visitor—First Great Church Wrangle 23
CHAPTER 5—1884, 1885, 1886—Change of Leader—Associational
Presbytery to Examine Applicants for the Ministry—Sunday
School Convention's First Donation—An Attempt to Move to
iMillen—A Fight on the Sunday School Convention 27
'CHAPTER 6—1887—A Financial Victory—Correspondents' from
Noah E'benezer Association Rejected—(First History of the As¬
sociation by Dr. C. T. Walker—The McCoy Split 31
CHAPTER 7—1888, 1889—McCoy Trouble—Paper by Rev. R'. J.
Joihnson—List of Ordained Ministers'—The First Invitation to
the City 33
CHAPTER 8—1890, 1891, 1892—McCoy Again—Moderator Sent to
(National Convention—Correspondent of Cooper Association
•Rejected—Change of Location of Walker Baptist Institute—
Much Work for the Committee on Church Grievances—-McCoy
Trouble Once More 39
CHAPTER 9—1893, 1894, 1895—Split in the Ranks of the State Bap¬
tist Convention Considered—Queries—First 'Class of Grad¬
uates—District Committees Appointed to Examine Candidates
for Ordination—More Church Trouble—Memorial Page to
Prof. J. A. Walker > 47
CHAPTER 10—1896, 1897—In the City at Last—Visit to W. B. I.—
Taking Notice of a White Brother's Deatlu : 57
CHAPTER 11—1898, 1899—Prof- Goodwin's Last Fight—A Great
Effort by a Young Man Near Death's Door—Dr. C. T. Walker's
Departure to (New York 62
CHAPTER 12—1900, 1901—The Year of Great Enthusiasm—The
■Mortgage (Burning—On to the General State Convention 68
CHAPTER 13 1902, 1903, 1904, 1905—A New Administration—The
First Club Rally—The Saddest Memorial Service of Tlhem All—
In Augusta Again—Great Tent Meetings—Some Misunder¬
standing Among Leaders 73
TABLE OF CONTENTS—'Continued.
Page.
CHAPTER 14—1906, 1907, 1908—Again in the City—T. J. Hornsby
Remembered—All Night Meeting—Closing on the Sabbath—
Sunrise Prayer Meeting—(Boxes of Supplies Presented—Good
Report of Woman's Convention—(Beautiful Memorial to the
Dead 83
CHAPTER 1'5—Churches and Pastors of the Association—Meeting
Places of tlhe Association and Its Officers 94
CHAPTER 16—(Walker Baptist Institute 99
CHAPTER 17—Graduates of Walker Baptist Institute and What
They Are Doing 112
CHAPTER 18—'Woman's Missionary Convention 118
CHAPTER 19—Walker Sunday School Convention 120
CHAPTER 20—Living Leaders, Viz.: G. R. Pinkston, S. C. Horns¬
by, M. T. J. Jones 127
CHAPTER 21—Revs. A- L. D'Antignac, W. G. Farmer, J. S. Campp
field and Granville W. Harrison 135
CHAPTER 22—S. J. Williams 140
CHAPTER 23—S. P- Campbell, Berry B- Berrien, S. W. Washing¬
ton and A. P. Kelsey 142
• CHAPTER 24—R. W. Walker, Mrs. Elizabeth W. Berrien 145
CHAPTER 25—R. J- Johnson and S. X. Floyd 148
CHAPTER 26—W. 'H. Whitfield, J. W. Whitehead, G. S. Kil-
:patrick 154
CHAPTER 27—G. J. Campbell, W- H. Bessent 158
CHAPTER 28—C- T. Walker, D. D„ LL. D 160
CHAPTER 28—S C. Walker, B- D., T. M. Sa-pp, W. A. MeCloud.. 166
CHAPTER 30—iP. E. Green, C. T. Campbell, R. W- Marshall, J. M.
Saipp and H. C. Young 171
CHAPTER 31—W. W. Jones, S- W. H- Murray, C. T. Jones 175
CHAPTER 32—H. T. Taylor—Other Men With Bright Futures.... 180
CHAPTER 33—(Fallen Heroes, Revs, Jesse J. Davis, Isaac Thomas,
Alfred Young, Joseph A. Walker and T. J. Hornsby 183
CHAPTER 34—Alexander I. Irving, Nathan Walker and Harry M.
Williams Igg
CHAPTER 35—Robert Kelsey, James Kelsey, Andrew Wilkersfon, S.
Y. Pope and Alexander S. Wright jgj
CHAPTER >36—Alfred L. \Byrd, H. H. Owens, Backus Watkins,
iHenry Walker and John T- Smith 195
TABLE OF CONTENTS—Continued.
Page.
CHAPTER 37—H. C. Lane, Thomas R. Glover and J. W. Weaver—
Table of Dead Ministers 199
CHAPTER 38—'Our Churches, Beech Branch, Pine Hill, Wat'kins-
ville, Keys Grove, San Hill, Solid Rock, St. Clair and Flat
Rock 203
CHAPTER 39—Carswell Grove, Friendship, Mt. Olive, James Grove,
First Baptist, Stillmore, and Campbell Baptist 208
CHAPTER 40—Calvary, Antioch, Smith Grove, Tremont Temple.. 213
CHAPTER 41—Elim and Tabernacle 216
CHAPTER 42—MoKinnie Branch, Mt- Horeb and Mt. Moriah 221
CHAPTER 43—William Grove, Rogers, Ga., New Liglht, iWards
'Grove, First Baptist, Spread Ga-, New Zion and Franklin Cove_
nant 224
CHAPTER 44—First McCoy, Second Springfield, St. John, Gethse-
mane, William Grove, Waynesboro 230
CHAPTER 45—Eden, Kelsey Chapel, Gordon Hill, Gordon Grove,
Harts Grove, Poplar Head and Rocky Ford 234
CHAPTER 46—Spring Hill, Magnolia, First Baptist, Wadley, Ga.,
Adam Grove, Richmond :Hilll and Good Hope 240
CHAPTER 47—Central, Bottsford, Forts Grove, Brinson 'Hill,
Springfield, Jefferson County 245
CHAPTER 48—Dalton, Zion, .St. Philip and MicElmurray Spring.. 248
'CHAPTER 49—Thomson Bridge, Murphey Ebenezer, Grays Grove
and Job Spring 255
CHAPTER 50—Daniel Grove, New Springfield, Doyle Grove, Por-
tersville 258
CHAPTER 51—First Baptist, Millen, Ga., Macedonia, Augusta,
Ways Grove and Palmers Groye 262
CHAPTER 52—Thankful, Pierce Grove, San Clair and Other
Churches ^68
CHAPTER 53—Final Summing Up 274