This is a list of the Old Green Hill Church minutes as they were written at the organization of the church back in 1860. Most of the original minutes have been preserved and are in the process of being typed and placed here for historical preservation.
A.D. 1860
The Presbyterian Church at Green Hill, in Titus Co. Texas was organized September 25th 1860 by Rev. E.H. Green with the following members:
Mr. J.Q. Hall, Mrs. D.E. Hall, Miss. M.C. Hall, Miss. Ella Hall, Mr. J.J. Hall, Mrs. M.E. Hall, Mrs. Margaret Hall, Mr. L.D. Hindman, Mrs. M. Hindman, Mrs. C. Green, Mrs. Mary Bolin, Mrs. Eliza B. Cobb, Mr. James Morgan, and the following named servants: Rhoda Man and Emma, Lovick and Celz. J.L. Hall was elected and installed Ruling Elder. J.J. Hall was also elected but declined to serve as Elder but was afterwards elected Deacon by a unanimous vote and was duly installed.
The church was blessed at the time of its organization with precious revival the remembrance of which will long be fresh in the minds of its members.
October 7th 1860
The Session met and was opened with prayer- Present Rev. E.H. Green and J.Q. Hall Ruling Elder. The following persons were received upon examination as communing members of the church: Joseph Hall, John Hall, Jane Hall, Tiney Hall, Edward M. Black and Pinkney Black.
The following were received by Certificate: Mr. G.M. Suggs, Mrs. Caroline Suggs, Robert Suggs, Dovey Suggs.
E.H. Green
G.M. Suggs was elected Ruling Elder by a unanimous vote.
April 6th 1861
Session met and was opened with prayer. Rev. E.H. Green and J.Q. Hall Ruling Elder being present. Mr. W.G. Suggs and Mrs. Sophea Bolin were received from the C.T. Church April 7th. Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was administered.
E.H. Green
May 12th 1861
The Sacrament of Baptism was administered to John Bovert infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Hindman, and Bettie John infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.J. Hall.
September 21st 1861
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. E.H. Green and J.Q. Hall Ruling Elder. Miss Nancy Morgan was received by Certificate as a member of the church.
E.H. Green, clerk
September 22nd 1861
The ordinance of Baptism was administered by Rev. A. Shotwell to Charlie Edward infant of Rev. E.H. Green and wife. Same day the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was administered.
E.H. Green, clerk
February 6th 1862
The ordinance of Baptism was administered to Lula Ball infant of R.A. and M.E. Hall.
Session met and received on examination Miss Cornelia Suggs. J.Q. Hall was elected to attend Presbytery.
E.H. Green, clerk
September 1862
The ordinance of Baptism was administered to Willie Hall, Thomas Black and Dorcus Caroline infant children of William Suggs, Thomas Black and G.M. Suggs.
Session met and was opened with prayer. Mrs. Paulina Rounsavall was received on examination.
E.H. Green, clerk
April 11th 1863
The ordinance of Baptism was administered to Walter Elizabeth and Ella children of Mrs. Paulina Rounsavall and the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was administered.
E.H. Green
October 10th 1863
Session met and was opened with prayer by Rev. A. Grigsby who acted as Mod. Protem. Received on examination the following persons: Thomas G. Black, Sarah J. Black, Margaret L. Black, James Harris, Lucretia Harris and Miss. M.L. Bolin.
G.M. Suggs-clerk
The Ordinance of the Lord’s Supper was administered by Rev. A. Grigsby.
November 12th 1863
Departed this life Rev. E.H. Green our first and much loved Pastor- In who’s honor we have named our church.
January 27th 1864
According to previous appointment Green Hill congregation met for the purpose of devising means for procuring a preacher- by motion Mr. James Harris and J.Q. Hall was elected as a committee to correspond with and invite any Presbyterian minister they might be able to hear of to come and preach. Also Mr. James Harris was unanimously elected Ruling Elder.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
September 1st 1864
The above named committee employed Rev. J.S. Park to preach to Green Hill congregation two Sabbaths in each month for twelve months for the consideration of two hundred dollars.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
September 5th 1864
The ordinance of Baptism was administered to Leonides Alfonzo and Edmania Holister infants of Eilliam G. Suggs Rev. E.H. Green.
Joseph F. Hall departed this life September 6th 1864.
Admonia Holister infant of Rev. E.H. & C.C. Green died September 25, 1864.
Mrs. C.C. Green departed this life December 21, 1864
G.M. Suggs C.S.
March 26th 1865
Joseph Isaac son of G.M. and C.M. Suggs died March 16th 1865.
Sacrament of the Lords Supper was administered by Rev. J.S. Park.
G.M. Suggs
July 1965
According to previous appointment G.H. Congregation met and employed Rev. J.S. Park to preach two Sabbaths in each month for one year commencing Sept. 1st 1865 for the consideration of two hundred dollars.
G,M. Suggs
September 1865
Mrs. Rachael Margan was received on examination as a communing members of the church. Baptism was administered to John and Charlie, children of James Morgan and wife.
G.M. Suggs-clerk
Married by Rev. J.S. Park, at the residence of the brides father Mr. John S. Hall to Miss. Margaret L. Black.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
According to appointment presbytery should have met at G.H. Ch. on Thursday before the 4th Sabbath. On Oct. 1865. Present Rev. J.S. Parks and J.M. Suggs Ruling Elders- failed to have a quorum-Sacrament of the Lords Supper administered by Rev. J.S. Park. Meeting protracted seventeen days with a precious revival which will long be remembered by the church and community at which time there were several professions of religion.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
March 31st 1866
Sessions met and was opened with prayer by Rev. J.S. Park. Received on examination the following members, William A. Rounsawall, A.S.R. Suggs, Robert J. Suggs, T.H, Green and W.M. Black. Sacrament of the Lords supper administered, also Baptism to Rufus Holister, infant son of William G. Suggs and wife. Also to Carrie Octavia and Marcus Gains infant children of Thomas G. Black and wife.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
May 27th 1866
The ordinance of Baptism was administered to Josie Viola, infant daughter of Leroy Hindman and wife.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 21st 1866
According to previous appointment, congregation met. Prayer by J.Q. Hall. Mr. James Harris was called to the chair- Explained the object of the meeting by motion of Mr. J.Q. Hall (the following resolution was passed) Resolved that we raise by mutual consent of the church a salary of four hundred dollars for the support of a Minister for three fourths of his time. In order to raise that amount we the members of Green Hill Church agree to pay the one twentieth of out produce and as much more as may be necessary to raise the above amount, the addition if any to be at the same rate or proportion to one twentieth, also we that we call Rev. C.M. Shepperson of Georgia to take charge of Green Hill Church as Pastor for the year 1867.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
September 1866
Josie Viola, infant daughter of L. Hindman and wife departed this life.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
November 8th 1866
Mr. J.H. Grigsby and Miss Jennie Hall were united in marriage by Rev. J. Johnson.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
February 3rd 1867
Rev. C.M. Shepperson having accepted the call made by the members of Green Hill Church commenced his pastoral services at the aforesaid church on the 3rd day of February 1867.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
February 10, 1867
Session met and was opened with prayer by Rev. C.M. Shepperson. The following members received by certificate from Zion Church. O.S.P. Pontotoc, Dr. Q.T. Suggs, Mrs. J.K. Suggs, Mr. Hugh S. and Sidney G. Suggs also Mrs. A.J. Harrison, also the sacrament of the Lords supper was administered by Rev. C.M. Shepperson.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
February 17th 1867
The Congregation met according to previous notice and elected Dr. Isaac T. Suggs to the office of Ruling Elder and Mr. Thomas G. Black to the office of Deacon in this church.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
March 1st 1867
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. C.M. Shepperson, J.Q Hall, Dr. I.T. Suggs and G.M. Suggs. Mr. G.M. Suggs was appointed a Delegate to Presbytery to be held at Canton on Smith County on the 4th day of April 1867. Mr. Ephraim R. Harris
And Mrs. E.M. Harris his wife were received on certificate from the church at Hickory Hill as members of this church also Mrs. Mildred C. Shepperson on certificate from the church in Dawson Georgia. Adjourned with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
May 4th 1867
Dr. Isaac T. Suggs was installed as a Ruling Elder in this church, he having been previously ordained. Mr. T.G. Black was at the same time ordained and installed as a Deacon, on the following day the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was administered.
September 8th 1867
Session constituted with prayer. Present Rev. C.M. Shepperson, J.Q. Hall, James Harris and G.M. Suggs. On motion of J.Q. Hall, Mr. James Harris was elected as a Delegate to represent this church in the approaching meeting of Presbytery. Closed with prayer by the Mod.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
September 12th 1867
The Presbytery of Eastern Texas mat at Green Hill Church September 12th 1867 and continued its session until the end of the week on February 13th. Congregation met according to previous notice to elect a Pastor. Rev. C.M. Shepperson was unanimously elected. A call was made in due form and presented to Presbytery. The Pastor elect accepted the call and was installed in Sabbath afterwards. Rev W.C. Dunlap preached the installation sermon and Rev. W.R. Marshall D.D. gave charge to Pastor and people.
September 15th 1867
Session met at the church constituted with prayer. Present Rev. C.M. Shepperson. Ruling Elder Harris, Hall, and Suggs. Mr. John Henderson and Mrs. Nancy J. Henderson presented themselves before the session as applicants for membership in his church. Their membership being in the church at Little Rock, Arkansas and not having obtained a certificate of dismission from that church, they were at their own request received as sojourners with us. Their permanent connection with this church to be consummated on the reception of their credentials from the session of the church at Little Rock. Session adjourned with prayer. Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper administered.
December 28th 1867
A meeting of the members of the Church commenced today in accordance with previous notice. The object of the meeting was to make such financial arrangements as may be necessary and adopt some practical plan for raising the Pastors salary for the year 1868. Mr. J.Q. Hall was called to the chair and Mr. T.G. Black was appointed Secretary. Resolved: 1st That members of this church be assessed according as shown by the state and county tax lists and that in this way the sum of four hundred dollars the amount of the Pastor’s salary shall be raised.
Resolved: 2nd That the Pastors salary shall be paid in regular quarterly installments of one hundred dollars each and that the first payment be made on the 1st Saturday in April next and that he members of the church shall meet at our house of worship to make such payment on that day.
March 15th 1868
Session met at the church. Opened with prayer. Present the Pastor and J.Q. Hall, Dr. I.T. Suggs and Mr. G.M. Suggs. On motion Dr. Suggs was elected a delegate to Presbytery to meet at Henderson on Thursday evening before the 1st Sabbath in April and J.Q. Hall alternate. Session adjourned. Closed with prayer.
J.M. Suggs, clerk
May 2nd 1868
Session met at the church after service, all members present, opened with prayer. Mr. Samuel Shepperson presented a letter of dismission from the Presbyterian church in Bainbridge Gov. upon which he was by a unanimous vote of session received as a member of this church. Session then held a free consultation touching the expediency of building a house of worship, after which on motion a recess was taken until tomorrow morning at 10 o’clock. Mr. Walker came before the session seeking to become a member of this church after a suitable examination was by a unanimous vote received as a member of this church. Session then adjourned and closed with prayer. The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was administered.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 2nd 1868
Session met today- all the members present except D. I.T. Suggs- at the suggestion of the Pastor it was determined to hold a prorated meeting to embrace the third Sabbath in this month and that Friday previous shall be observed as a day of fasting and prayer to Almighty God for a blessing on the services of that occasion- also that on Friday 14th inst. The Pastor of the church shall preach a sermon adopted to the occasion. Closed with prayer.
G. M. Suggs, clerk
August 15th 1868
Session met and opened with prayer-all members present. Mr. James W. Sherrill presented a certificate of dismission from the church of Fairview, Alabama. To which being forward in order he was by a unanimous vote of the session received as a member of this church Ellen Wood a freed woman came before the session and after due examination was received as a member of this church-who was Baptized on Sunday morning before administration of the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper- closed with prayer by the Pastor.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 18th 1868
Session mat and opened with prayer. All members present. Mrs. Jane S.D. Black, Mrs. Annie McKinzie, and Tom Holeman a freedman came before the session and after satisfactory examination on experimental religion were received as members of this church.
Mr. E.R. Harris having requested a letter of dismission for himself and wife to join the church at Hickory Hill in Cass County. The same was granted. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 25th 1868
Session met-Opened with prayer. Members all present. Mr. A.A. Hood presented a certificate of dismission from the M??? Church S. for himself and his wife Sallie Hood and his son John H. Hood which being found in due form they were unanimously received as members of this church. Mrs. B.W. Low was also received on certificate from the C.T. Church at Gray Rock. The following persons came before the Session for examiniation as consideration for membership in this church-by Miss Willie Hall, Columbia H. Hood, Elvira M.E. Suggs, Elvina S. Suggs, Anna D. Green, Elizabeth A. Bolin, Lucretia Black, Rebecca Collins, Mr. Samuel G. McKinzie, Charles C. Black, Goodwyn H. Low, Thomas H. Harrison, Jas S. Grigsby, R.S. Hood, T.M. Suggs, Christopher C. Black, Harrison T. Lou, (Pinkney G. Black, restored). The examination of these persons being satisfactory, they were all received. On motion, Session adjourned. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
September 27th 1868
Session met and was constituted with prayer. All the members present. On motion Mr. G.M. Suggs was chosen to represent this church in Presbuterry to convene at Canton in Smith County, Texas on the 1st day of October and Mr. J.Q. Hall alternate. Adjourned with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
October 26th 1868
Session met at the church, opened with prayer. Present Rev. C.M. Shepperson, James Harris, J.Q. Hall and G.M. Suggs. Mr. Albert O. Grigsby and Labano Simpson presented themselves before the Session as a candidate for membership and after due examination were both received as members of this church. Mr. B.S. Shepperson presented a certificate of dismission from the Presbyterian church in Bainbridge, Georgia which being found in order he was received as a member of this church. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
January 24th 1869
Session met after service and opened with prayer. All members present. Application was made for certificate of dismission for Miss Rebecca Collins, she having gone to Arkansas on motion of Mr. James Harris it was resolved that the clerk of Session be directed to furnish Miss. Collins a certificate of dismission to join the church wherever her lot may in the Providence of God be cast. It was also determined to hold regular meetings of the Session once in three months. The first meeting to be held on the 1st Saturday in February at 2 o’clock p.m. at the house of the Pastor. Session adjourned with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
February 6th 1869
Session met at the house of the Pastor and was constituted by prayer. Present the Pastor, Mr. J.Q. Hall, and Dr. I.T. Suggs. Several interesting topics were introduced for consideration and laid over to wait a larger attendance of the Session. The case of Tom Holman a freedman who has parted from his wife was taken up-whereupon it was on motion resolved that Mr. G.M. Suggs be appointed a committee to see Tom Holman and learn from him the cause that have led to his separation from his wife. Adjourned with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, C.S.
February 24th 1869
Green Hill Presbyterian Church met according to previous appointment. Meeting opened with prayer by the Pastor of the church. Mr. A.A. Hood was called to the chair. Mr. William Suggs was requested to act as clerk. The object of the meeting as explained from the chair being to consider a request from the church at Webster that this church shall relinquish its claim on a part of the Pastors time for their benefit. After mature deliberation it was on a motion resolved that the church consent to the application of the church at Webster that our Pastor spend one Sabbath of each month at that place provided his salary shall be lessoned. It was also resolved that a deduction be made from the present salary of one third part of the amount being $133 1/3 to correspond with the deduction of time. That we continue to raise our Pastor’s salary in the same way in which it was raised last year.
Resolved that our Minister’s salary shall be paid in quarterly installments and all who fail to pay an addition of ten percent on the amount of their subscriptions till paid.
Resolved that if the Webster church should fail to compensate our Pastor Rev. G.M. Shepperson satisfactorily for his services in that event the consent for him to go to Webster is withdrawn, and invite him back to preach for a herethafore with former salary. Adjourned with prayer.
March 7th 1869
Session at the church, opened with prayer. Members all present except Mr. Harris. Mr. G.M. Suggs having been appointed by the Session to confer with Tom Holman (freedman) a member of this church that the causes which led to his separation from his wife, and other matters reported as follows. That he had conversed with Tom Holman as above and learned from him that his wife had opposed hid becoming a member of the church and when she discovered his intentions to do so became extremely perverse and quarrelsome so that it was impossible for him to live in peace with her, at length it became evident that he must either renounce his profession of religion or separate from his wife- in the state of things he chose the latter. His irregular attendance at church, in regard to this particular thing that he inclemency of the weather and the very bad state of the roads prevented him from going to church with much regularity but that he expected when the weather should become better to attend preaching regular. Sunday visiting in regard to this he stated that he did sometimes go to see his neighbors on the Sabbath day, not in the way of social visiting but to sing and pray with them, to talk about religion and exhort them to become Christians. The session dismissed the case. Dr. I.T. Suggs was chosen a delegate to Presbytery to meet at Marshall on the 1st day of April next and Mr. Green M. Suggs alternate. Session adjourned and was closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk.
April 2nd 1869
Examined and approved by Presbytery in Session at Marshall April 2nd 1869
C.M. Shepperson mod.
April 18th 1869
Session met at the church today previous to the communion. Present Mr. G.M. Suggs, Dr. I.T. Suggs and the Pastor. Mrs. M.W. Claytorr presented a certificate of dismission from the church at Bainbridge in Georgia to this church-which having found in due order she was thereupon received as a member of this church-on motion the Session adjourned. The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was administered.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
May 1st 1869
Session met at the church. Present all members except Mr. J.Q. Hall. Opened with prayer. Mr. J.B. Henderson a member of this church having removed to the neighborhood of Marshall applied for a certificate of dismission for him and wife Mrs. Nancy Henderson to join the church at that place-whereupon it was upon motion that the request of Mr. Henderson be granted and that the clerk of Session be directed to forward to him the requested certificate. In view of the fact that this church has no funds upon which to draw in order to meet such expenses as may from time to time occur, it was on motion, Resolved that a tax of ten cents a year be laid upon every member of the church in order to raise a contingent fund to meet the current expenses of the church. Resolved that it be adopted as a standing rule that the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper shall be administered in this church once in three months, and that every communion season shall be introduced on Friday, previous by a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer and appropriate public service.
Resolved that the Pastor of this church be requested to preach a service of discourses at his conveyance on the doctrines and usages of the Presbyterian church and that the Subject of Baptism be embraced in this series from the instruction of our own members.
Resolved that the Pastor of this church be requested to procure a supply of the Shorter Catechism and the children’s Catechism for the use of the Sunday School. Session adjourned-closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 4th 1869
Session met-opened with prayer-all the members present. The Pastor laid before the Session a letter which he had received from Rev. James Woodrow treasurer of the ex-committee of Sustentation containing a check on New York for two hundred dollars appropriated by the ex-committee to aid in building our house of worship. This check was placed in the hands of Mr. G.M. Suggs Treasurer of the building committee and the Pastor was requested to write to Mr. Woodrow a letter of thanks for this generous appropriation of the ex-committee of Sustentation. The Pastor having he requested at a former meeting of the Session to procure a supply of the Shorter and children’s catechism for the use of the Sunday School and the families of the church reported that the books had been received and that he had paid for them, whereupon the Treasurer was directed to refund to our Pastor the amount of money he had paid out. Dr. I.T. Suggs one of the Elders of this church presented to the Session an appeal on the subject of faithfulness between brethren and the importance of watchfulness over each other especially in the Session which appeal eluted some remarks from several members of the Session, after which the Session adjourned. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
October 3rd 1869
At a meeting of the church and congregation at Green Hill duly convened on the 3rd day of October for the purpose of having a communication from the Pastor of the church. Mr. J.Q. Hall was called to the chair and Mr. G.M. Suggs requested to act as secretary. The meeting having been thus organized, prayer was offered for the guidance and direction of the Holy Spirit in the proceedings about to be entered upon after which Rev. C.M. Shepperson arose and a few brief remarks expressed his desire to resign the Pastoral charge of the church stating some of the reasons that have led him to this decision whereupon after due deliberation the following preamble and resolutions offered by Mr. G.M. Suggs were unanimously adopted.
Whereas our Pastor Rev. C.M. Shepperson has today made known his desire to resign the Pastoral charge of the church of Green Hill-Has stated the reasons by which that desire has been prompted and requested the church to unite with him in an application to the Presbytery of Eastern Texas to dissolve the Pastoral relation now existing between himself and the church at Green Hill.
Therefore be it resolved by the church and congregation of Green Hill.
1st that we deeply regret the occurrence of any causes or circumstances leading our Pastor to desire the severance of his connection with the church. That since our Pastor was fully expressed his desire for this purpose therefore.
Resolved that the church herby consents to the severance of the Pastoral relation now subsisting between the Rev. C.M. Shepperson and Green Hill church-to take effect at the end of the present year, but when we call to mind that it was in answer to the earnest prayers of the church that he was sent to us and under his ministration our children have been brought into the fold of Christ and (although of minor importance) that through his untiring energy and perseverance we obtained a considerable sum of money (two hundred dollars) to assist us in building a church, it is with deep regret that circumstances lead us to concur with him according to his request in an application to the Presbytery of Eastern Texas at the approaching meeting of that body to be held in the town in Rusk to dissolve the Pastoral relation between Rev. C.M. Shepperson and this church and congregation of Green Hill feel called, upon in consenting to this separation of a union that has continued nearly three years as an act of justice to our Pastor herby to hear testimony to he faithfulness, ability and zeal with which he has performed all the duties of the Pastoral office for this church as well as to his exemplary Christian department, his Godly walk and conversion and his untiring and self denying labors to promote the interests of this church in every particular both Spiritual and temporal as well as the cause of Jesus Christ in the country generally from the day of his arrival among us till the present time, and we sincerely hope and earnestly pray that the Great Head of the church may lead him to some other position of his vineyard where he may labor with large success in building up the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, and he leaves us with our best wishes and earnest prayer for his usefulness and prosperity both in spiritual and in temporal things and for that of his family.
Resolved that these resolutions be officially signed by the moderator and clerk of this meeting and recorded on the Session book of this church. That a copy of the same be presented to our Pastor the Rev. C.M. Shepperson and that the clerk of the session be directed to furnish copies of the same for publication in the Texas Press, the Southern Presbyterian, The South Western Presbyterian, and the Christian Observer.
J.Q. Hall Mod.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
A Resolution was then introduced by Mr. W.G. Suggs for the purpose of giving Rev. C.M. Shepperson as much time as may be necessary between the present time and the end of the year for the purpose of finding a Field of labor and providing a future home, and that his salary shall not be diminished on that account, but that he shall receive the full amount of his salary to the end of the year-which was unanimously adopted. On motion.
Resolved that the session of this church be appointed a committee to correspond with some Minister or Ministers with a view to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of the Pastor of this church. The meeting then adjourned.
October 7th 1869- note
Mr. James Harris a Ruling Elder in the church of Green Hill departed this life October 7th 1869- A man “full of faith and of the Holy Ghost”.
October 27th 1869
Session met after preaching at the call of the Pastor. All members present. Opened with prayer. On motion Mr. J.Q. Hall was appointed to attend the meeting of Presbytery to be held at Rusk on Thursday before the 5th Sabbath in October. G.M. Suggs-alternate. Session adjourned. Closed with prayer by the Moderator.
G.M. Suggs
January 2nd 1870
Session met at the call of the moderator. Opened with prayer. Present Rev. C.M. Shepperson, Mr. J.Q. Hall, J.M. Suggs and Dr. I.T. Suggs. Application on behalf of Ephraim R. Harris and Mrs. E.M. Harris his wife. Mrs. M.C. Shepperson, Mrs. Mary W. Claytor, Mrs. S.B. Shepperson and Mr. B.S. Shepperson for letters of dismission from the church, to join the Presbyterian church at Hickory Hill-whereupon it was resolved that these applications should be granted, ad that the clerk of the Session be directed to furnish the proper certificates. Session adjourned. Closed with prayer by the Moderator. Rev. C.M. Shepperson closed his labors with the church today.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
January 30th 1870
Preaching by Rev. R.E. Sherrill afterwhich a Congregational meeting was called. Dr. I.T. Suggs in the chair. G.M. Suggs Secretary. O motion it was resolved that we call Rev. R.E. Sherrill to preach to us as stated supply, and that we pay him the sum of five hundred dollars for one half of his time-adjourned to meet again after Mr. Sherrill shall have returned from Paris in Lamar County where designed making a visit.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
February 13th 1870
Green Hill congregation met according to adjournment. After hearing from Rev. R.E. Sherrill, some difficulties still existing as to his accepting a call to supply Green Hill. On motion it was resolved to wait an answer from him after his return to his home in Mississippi.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
March 13th 1870
Green Hill congregation was called together to take into consideration the propriety of calling Rev. B.D. Thomas of Kentucky as a supply for the present year. On motion, resolved that in care Rev. R.E. Sherrill should fail to come we employ Rev. B.D. Thomas for one half of his time at a salary of five hundred dollars per year. No action to be taken until after we can hear from Rev. R.E. Sherrill.
March 13th 1870
Session met and was opened with prayer by Rev. B.D. Thomas who acted as Mod. Members all present. Received on certificate from the Palestine Presbyterian church, Anderson County, Texas Mr. J.K.W. Bryant and wife. Mrs. M.K. Bryant as members of this church. Mr. J.Q. Hall was appointed a delegate to Presbytery to meet at Tyler on March 31st and G.M. Suggs alternate. Closed with prayer by the Mod.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
April 20th 1870
Session met and was opened with prayer by Rev. B.D. Thomas. At her own request Mrs. Tinie Sherrill was dismissed from this church to join the Mountain Creek church in Tipton County, Tennessee. Closed with prayer by the Mod.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
April 30th 1870
Session met and was opened with prayer by Rev. B.D. Thomas as Mod. The following persons were received on certificate from the Palestine church- Mr. C.C. Horn and Mrs. E.A. Horn, Mr. Lee Moore and Mrs. Drucilla Moore. Session adjourned to meet next morning.
May 1st 1870
Session met according to appointment. Closed with prayer by the clerk. After preaching the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was administered by Rev. B.D. Thomas.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
May 24th 1870
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present G.M. Suggs, Isaac T. Suggs and J.Q. Hall, Rev. R. Sherrill of the Presbytery of Central Mississippi being present was requested to moderate the Session. On motion the following Preamble and Resolutions were adopted:
Whereas in accordance with the unanimous request of the Green Hill church the Rev. Sherrill having come among us to take charge of said church, therefore resolved that he said R.E. Sherrill be and hereby is requested to Moderate our Session- Administer the Sacraments and perform any such Pastoral acts as pertain to the Pastoral office during the time of his living and continuing among us as our stated Mistrials Supply. Resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Chairman of our Presbyterial Committee of Sustentation, requesting any such advise or instructions as the committee may be charged with in such cases. Resolved further that as a church we will cooperate through the Presbyterial Committee- with the Assembly’s committee of Missions, Education, Publication and Sustentation and that we will take up Quarterly collections for these objects. Each upon the day specified by the General Assembly. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 20th 1870
Session met and was opened with prayer. All members present. Received the following members into communion on examination: Mr. W.R.M. Slaughter and wife Mrs. Elizabeth J. Slaughter (by Baptism) and Mr. Samuel P. Smith. Session closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 21st 1870
Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was administered. Meeting protracted for two weeks, during which time we had a precious revival with about 25 hopeful conversions during which time the following persons were received on examination as members as members of this church.
September 3rd 1870
Session standing open (on adjournment) Members all present. Proceeded to the examination of Thomas T. Cobb, Fernandis Mason, Green M. Suggs, Jr., William B. Gilpin, Thomas H. Black, Joseph H. Bryan, William L. Hood, Charles A. Horn, Sallie F. Cobb, Mary A. Mogan, Josephine Gilpin, Fannie Black, Mrs. Martha E. Black, Charles R. Sherrill, John Lunsford, (and the following names of Color) Nancy G. Russell, Ann McClure, Randolph Smith, and Jane Smith. On certificate from the church of Palestine: Thomas E. Suggs, and Nancy M. Suggs. Session closed with prayer by the Mod. Rev. R.E. Sherrill.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
September 3rd 1870
According to previous appointment the congregation met for the purpose of electing additional officers for this church whereupon the following members were elected to the office of Ruling Elder: Thomas G. Black, J.W.K. Bryan, and James W. Sherrill. All accepted of the office and in due time were set apart by Ordination and Installation. Also the following named members were elected to the office of Deacon: C.C. Horn, William G. Suggs, and A.A. Hood who also accepted the office and in due time were set apart by Ordination and Installation.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
September 4th 1870
Ruling Elder J.W.K. Bryan was Installed, Thomas G. Black and James W. Sherrill were Ordained and Installed Elders of this church, Mr. C.C. Horn, William G. Suggs and A.A. Hood were ordained Deacons of Green Hill church. Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was administered-Rev. R.E. Sherrill Mod.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
September 18th 1870
Session met, opened with prayer, Present all members except J.W. Sherrill. Received on examination Calvin Russell and Ellen Sherrill (both colored persons). Session closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
February 2nd 1871
Mr. Goodwin Harris a member of this church departed this life in his 83rd year.
Nancy G. Russell a colored member of this church departed this life February 1871- (age not given).
February 5th 1871
Session met and was opened with prayer. Granted letters of dismission to Mr. Samuel P. Smith and wife Mrs. M.E. Smith to join the Presbyterian church at Granada, Mississippi. Closed with prayer by the Moderator.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
March 26th 1871
Session met and was opened with prayer. Received on examination Miss Mary T. Hall. Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was administered, after which Session resumed works-thereupon on motion Mr. G.M. Suggs was appointed a delegate to Presbytery-to meet at Paris, Texas March 30th and Mr. J.Q. Hall was appointed as alternate. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs
April 4th 1871
Examined and approved by Presbytery at Paris, Texas April 4th 1871.
R.E. Sherrill, Moderator
April 22nd 1871
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. R.E. Sherrill and Elders J.Q. Hall, G.M. Suggs and J.W. Shurell. Mr. McCamey A. Harris was received by letter from the Presbyterian church of Hickory Hill, Texas as a member of this church. Session agreed to remain open until after communion service on tomorrow.
April 23rd 1871
Session resumed as per agreement. No other business coming before the Session adjourned with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
May 14th 1871
Session met and was opened with prayer. All members present. It was stated that Fernando Mason member of the Green Hill church had been guilty of drunkenness in Mount Pleasant on Saturday the 29th of April, whereupon a committee of Session consisting of Rev. R.E. Sherrill and Elder G.M. Suggs was appointed to confer with said F. Mason and report results of conference at a subsequent meeting of session. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
May 28th 1871
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present, Rev. R.E. Sherrill and Elders I.T. Suggs, G.M. Suggs and J.W. Sherrill. The following paper was then read:
The committee appointed on the 14th to visit Fernando Mason a member of this church charged with intoxication publicly in the town of Mount Pleasant, reported to Session that they attended to that duty on the same day of their appointment. That after full and free conference with Mr. Mason in private, he acknowledged his sin in that particular professed his penitence on account of his fellow church members who he had thus grieved as he hoped to be forgiven of God against whom he has thus sinned, with his purpose by the assistance of God’s grace to endeavor prayerfully to avoid all similar excesses in future. The conference was closed with prayer and a tender and solemn admonitions. Your Committee recommended that Brother Mason be restored “in the Spirit of meekness” and that notice be given publicly to the congregation.
R.E. Sherrill - Committee
G.M. Suggs
This report of the Committee was unanimously adopted and the above paper ordered to be read from the pulpit (which was done the same day before preaching).
Session closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
July 29th 1871
Session met according to motion previously given and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. R.E. Sherrill and Elders J.Q. Hall, I.T. Suggs, G.M. Suggs and J.W. Sherrill.
W.R.M. Slaughter a member of Green Hill church charged with drunkenness and profanity appeared before the Session and waiving his right to a ten days notice desired the Session to act at once upon his case. He confessed his sin of intemperance of profanity and of maltreatment of his wife, without any just cause whatever on her part. Therefore he professes his deep and hearty repentance of his sin in these things-desires the forgiveness of those injured or offended by him and of the church, as he hopes he has sought and obtained the forgiveness of God, with his earnest wish and purpose by the aid of God’s grace to avoid all such sin in future, and to live as becometh a Christian man to do. The Session required this acknowledgement before the church, and that the party offending to be admonished and the said Slaughter consenting thereto. It was ordered that the above acknowledgement, profession and admonition should take place before the Congregation on the next regular day of preaching being the second Sabbath of August. Closed with prayer.
R.E. Sherrill, Mod.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 12th 1871
The foregoing confession was made, and the admonition given August 12th 1871
R.E. Sherrill
August 27th 1871
Session met and was opened with prayer. Pastor and Elders all present. Three of our members John Hood, Sidney Suggs and Alexander Suggs, voluntarily appeared before the Session, acknowledging themselves to have been more or less intoxicated, some nights previous, when engaged with others in a serenade. They expressed shame and sorrow on account of his their sin, and a desire and purpose by God’s grace to abstain from all similar transgression in the future. They were faithfully rebuked, and admonished and prayed with by the Session.
Session resolved that proper notice of this action should be given the congregation from the pulpit, with the additional notice that hereafter any members of this church guilty of intemperance (drunkenness) shall be suspended from the communion of the church till he given satisfactory evidence of repentance. Closed with prayer.
August 27th 1871
Afterwards Session again met and was opened with prayer. Members all present. Mrs. Lucy Frances Sherrill was received from the Presbyterian church at Forest Grove, Leake County, Mississippi. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 31st 1871
Session met and was opened with prayer. Members all present. Wilburn Colleg was received by profession, and his Baptism appointed to take place on the 2nd Sabbath of September next. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
September 10th 1871
Session met and was opened with prayer. Members all present. Benjaman Evans was received by profession. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
Note: Baptism was administered today to Wilburn Colley and also to Beula and Hilary, infants of James and Jane Grigsby.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
November 6th 1871
Session met and was opened with prayer. All members present. Letters of Dismission have been given to L.D. Hindman and his wife Mrs. M. Hindman by Rev. R.E. Sherrill, the same was ratified by the Session. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
December 24th 1871
Session met ad was opened with prayer. Present Rev. R.E. Sherrill, Elders J.Q. Hall, J.W. Sherrill and J.W.K. Bryan. Miss Sarah Jane Martin was received by letter from Baptist Church at Pleasant Grove in Marion County, Texas, and Mrs. M.A. Black by letter from the Hickory Hill church. Closed with prayer.
R.E. Sherrill, Mod.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
February 17th 1872
Mr. A.A. Hood, Deacon of this church, and Superintendent of Sabbath School Departed this life February 17th 1872.
February 25th 1872
Session met and was opened with prayer by the Mod. All members present except G.Q. Hall. Granted a letter of dismission to Thomas M. Suggs to join the Presbyterian church at Sherman, Texas. Closed with prayer.
R.E. Sherrill, Mod.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
March 10th 1872
Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper administered by Rev. R.E. Sherrill (after which) Session met and was opened with prayer. Members all present except J.Q. Hall. Thomas G. Black was appointed a delegate to Presbytery to meet at Hickory Hill April 6th with G.M. Suggs as alternate. Close with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
April 6th 1872
Approved by Presbytery at Hickory Hill April 6th 1872
W.K. Marshall, Mod.
March 28th 1872
Mr. J.Q. Hall the first Elder of Green Hill church, a man of decided ???
Devoted to the interest of the church, supported it liberally with his means and perhaps did more for its advancement than any one member has, (or can ever do) for Green Hill church- Died in strong faith of a “Better resurrection’ surrounded by many friends and family-on March 28th 1872 at 12 o’clock.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
May 12th 1872
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. R.E. Sherrill, Elders I.T. Suggs, G.M. Suggs and J.W. Sherrill. Letters of dismission were granted to the following members: J.K.W. Bryan, Mrs. M.R. Bryan and Joseph H. Bryan, to join the church at Palestine, Texas.
Miss. Nancy Morgan a member of this church, who having been absent for several years in the state of Tennessee and having been received into the community membership of a church there though never dismissed here-with instructions to inform the church from which she came at once, that her name might be dropped from their roll. Closed with prayer.
R.E. Sherrill Mod.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 8th 1872
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. R.E. Sherrill and Elders G.M. Suggs, I.T. Suggs and J.W. Sherrill. Brothers Thomas G. Black and G.M. Suggs were appointed a committee of Session to confer with W.R.M. Slaughter a member of this church concerning whom it is rumored that he has been drinking intemperately. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, Clerk
R.E. Sherrill
August 13th 1872
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. R.E. Sherrill, Elders G.M. Suggs, I.T. Suggs, and J.W. Sherrill. Dr. John B. Humphreys was received by letter and Thomas C. Chandler by profession and Baptism. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
Note: Sacrament administered on Sabbath 11th, Rev. A. Grigsby assisting-deep and tender interest pervading the congregation.
August 14th 1872
Session met and was opened with prayer. All the members present. Benjamin Evans a member of this church came before the Session stating his heavy sorrow for allowing himself to be forced into a fight a week ago-asked to be forgiven by the church as he hoped the forgiveness of God-with promise of prayerful endeavor to avoid strife and evil doing and to live the life of a peaceful Christian. At his own request the statements were made in public to the church. Session remained open,
G.M. Suggs, clerk
R.E. Sherrill
August 15th 1872
Session came to order while conducting an inquiry meeting. Present as above- Andrew Walker an aged member of the C.P. Church but for 7 or 8 years beyond its bounds and within our came before the Session and was received as by profession. Session remained open. Subject to the call of the Moderator.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
Rev. R.E. Sherrill
August 17th 1872
Session met. Rev. A. Grigsby was present by request opened the Session with prayer. Present Rev. R.E. Sherrill and all the Elders. The following persons applied for admission to membership, and giving satisfactory evidence of their piety were received:
Mary Ella Cobb, Amanda J. Rounsvall, Elizabeth H. Green, Cardella E. Morgan, Bettie Hall, John J. Suggs, J. Harbard Suggs, and Charles Green-of whom Mary Ella Cobb was Baptized. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 18th 1872
Session met and was opened by prayer. Members all present. The following persons appeared before the Session, and upon profession of their faith in Christ were received to the commission of the church: Anna A. Cobb, Mannie Horn, M. Lou Black, Caroline D. Suggs, Richard Ellis Sherrill Jr., John N. Grigsby (formally of the C.P. church) and Robert Suggs restored after a period of guilty wandering. Of these Anna Cobb and Lou Black were Baptized. Session closed with closing prayer and Sacramental Service.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
R.E. Sherrill
September 29th 1872
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. R.E. Sherrill and Elders G.M. Suggs and J.W. Sherrill. Mrs. Nancy Porter, being a member of the C.P. Church but having no letter, the particular church which she had been connected being disorganized was received upon her own statement and profession. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
R.E. Sherrill
October 13th 1872
Session met and was opened with prayer. Members all present. Letters of dismission
Were granted to J.W. Sherrill and wife Dovey E. Sherrill, R. Ellis Sherrill and Sarah Jane Martin to the care of the Sherman church. Also the Session were informed that one of our members- Dr. Humphreys has recently been guilty of drunkenness. Brother Thomas G. Black was appointed to confer with said Humphreys toughing this matter. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
R.E. Sherrill
Note: Rev. R.E. Sherrill preached his farewell sermon October 13th after having served this church two years and six months. He goes to Sherman, Texas.
October 13th 1872
Session again met and was opened with prayer. All members present. G.M. Suggs was appointed a delegate to Presbytery, to meet at Larisna in Cherokee County. To meet November 4th also Symod to meet in Palestine in Anderson County, Texas. Closed with prayer.
R.E. Sherrill Mod.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
April 1873
Minutes approved by Presbytery at Sulphur Springs, Texas.
C.M. Shepperson Mod.
April 20th 1873
By appointment a congregational meeting was called. Mr. T.G. Black was made chairman and Mr. W.G. Suggs secretary. A committee who had been previously appointed for purpose of trying to secure a Pastor, reported having corresponded with various ministers without success in their labors. On motion the following committee were appointed and instructed: Elders G.M. Suggs and I.T. Suggs with Brother Mc. A. Harris, to correspond with Rev. B.D. Thomas of Russellville, Kentucky. On motion the committee were instructed by the congregation to offer Rev. B.D. Thomas a salary of Three hundred and fifty dollars for one half of his time for one year.
T.G. Black, chairman
W.G. Suggs, secretary
May 28th 1873
Rev. B.D. Thomas commenced his ministerial labors for Green Hill church on May 18th1873 with the promise of salary as above stated
G.M. Suggs
June 1st 1873
Session met and was opened with prayer by the Mod. Rev. B.D. Thomas- Elders I.T. Suggs and G.M. Suggs were present. Letters of dismission were granted to the following persons: Mr. T.E. Suggs, Mrs. Nancy M. Suggs, and Mrs. C.C. Bryan to join the church at Palestine. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
July 6th 1873
Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper administered by the Rev. B.D. Thomas.
September 19th 1873
Session met and was opened with prayer. Received the following persons into the communion of the church on profession of their faith in Christ: Mrs. Sarah M. Suggs and William Alfonzo Suggs- Also Miss Lela Hall. Session adjourned to meet tomorrow.
September 20th 1873
Baptism was administered to Mrs. Sarah M. Suggs and William Alfonzo Suggs. Sacrament of the Lord’s Super was also administered by Rev. B.D. Thomas. Session met and was closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
December 20th 1873
By previous appointment the congregation et for the purpose of electing one or more Elders. Rev. B.D. Thomas in the chair-which resulted in the election of Brother McCamey A. Harris who was ordained and installed on the 18th day of January 1874.
B.D. Thomas, chairman
G.M. Suggs, secretary
February 14th 1874
Session met and was opened with prayer by Rev. B.D. Thomas. Elders present Dr. I.T. Suggs, Mc. A. Harris and G.M. Suggs. The following persons met with the Session after having previously conversed with on the charge of Dancing: Miss. Willie Hall, Miss Tommie Hall, Miss. Nannie Horn, Miss. Josephine Gilpin, Mr. Charley Horn, Mr. William Gilpin, Mr. Harry Low, Mr. Sidney Suggs, Mr. Benjamin Evans, Albert Grigsby, Willborn Colley and Theodore Green.
After prayer and a very free conversation by the Session on the Subject of Dancing and seeming entirely to fail in bringing them to repentance or to see their sin, the whole matter was postponed, and the Session adjourned to meet on the 7th of March when all present were as to meet the Session again with the hope they might receive more light and be able to see their sin. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
March 7th 1874
Session met. Moderator being absent, nothing was done.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
Thus far examined and approved by Presbytery.
A.P. Smith Mod.
April 12th 1874
Session met. Opened with prayer. All the members present. Received the following members by letter from Sherman Presbyterian church. Elder James W. Sherrill, Mrs. D.E. Sherrill closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
Note: J.W. Sherrill elected again to serve as Elder in this church.
May 15th 1874
Session met and was opened with prayer by the Moderator. Elders present McCamey A. Harris, James W. Sherrill and G.M. Suggs. Granted letters of dismission to Dr. I.T. Suggs and wife, J.H. Suggs and J. Harbard Suggs-to join the Presbyterian church at Paris in Lamar County. The Subject of Dancing was also taken up and the cases of the offending members who has been previously cited to meet again with the session: Willie Hall, Tommie Hall, Nannie Horn, Charley Horn, Josephine Gilpin, Willie Gilpin, H.T. Low, Sidney Suggs, Albert Grigsby, Benjamin Evans, Theodore Green, K.D.W. Colley, who having failed to give satisfactory evidence of their repentance and desire of reformation to the Committee, Rev. B.D. Thomas and Elder G.M. Suggs who had been appointed to confer with them- their cases were continued. Also charges of a similar nature were preferred against the following additional members: R.J. Suggs charged with dancing, J.H. Harrison also charged with dancing, Willie Hood, with playing the violin for dancing parties, James H. Grigsby with having a dancing party at his house, and Goodwyn Low with absenting himself from the house of worship and other unchristian conduct.
Whereupon the Session appointed G.M. Suggs and McCamey A. Harris as a committee to see the offending members, and if satisfaction was not given, to cite them to a trial to take place at the church on the 13th day (Saturday) of June at 2 o’clock p.m.
Session closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
June 13th 1874
Session et as per appointment and was opened with prayer by the Mod. Present Rev. B.D. Thomas Mod. Elders J.W. Sherrill, Mc A. Harris and G.M. Suggs. Your Committee consisting of G.M. Suggs and Mc A. Harris both being present to submit the following report:
H.T. Low , R.J. Suggs, James H. Grigsby, Thomas Harrison and Theodore Green have made satisfactory acknowledgements- Also Benjamin Evans who being absent has sent satisfactory acknowledgements by another person. And that the following name offending members have been cited to trial: Nannie Horn, Charley Horn, Josephine Gilpin, Willie Gilpin, Albert Grigsby, D.W. Colley, Willie Hood, Goodwyn Low (cited by letter), Willie Hall, Tommie Hall and Sidney Suggs. All of whom were to have appeared at this meeting. Bt having failed in part the Committee was continued with the addition of Elders Thomas G. Black and James W. Sherrill to farther confer with the above offending members, and to report progress at their convenience. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
Carefully revised and corrected by Mc A. Harris
Note:
Or church became vacant by the removal and resignation of Rev. B.D. Thomas which occurred about the first of July 1874 and having no Minister to Moderate our Sessions, The Judicial proceedings of our church were suspended.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
per Mc A. Harris
April 20th 1874
Session met and was opened with prayer by Elder G.M. Suggs who acted as Mod. Elders T.G. Black, James W. Sherrill and Mc A. Harris being present proceeded to business. On report of Mc A. Harris who being one of the Committee to confer with members who had been charged with the sin of dancing, and who had visited and conversed with Miss Willie Hall and Miss Tommie Hall, upon that subject at their home in Waxahachie, and on account of the sorrow and remorse of conscience expressed by them for past conduct, and a promise to abstain from such violations of the church rules in future It was agreed by the Session to grant them letters of dismission in good standing with their parents to join the Presbyterian church at Waxahachie. Accordingly letters were granted to the following named persons: Mr. J.J. hall (Deacon), Mrs. Margaret Hall, Miss Willie Hall, and Miss Tommie Hall- to join the church at Waxahachie . A letter was also granted to Mrs. Sallie Cobb Johnson to join the Methodist church-and the clerk ordered to furnish the necessary certificates. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
per Mc A. Harris
October 18th 1874
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present T.G. Black, G.M. Suggs and J.W. Sherrill. Letters of Dismission were granted to Mr. James H. Grigsby and his wife Mrs. Jane Grigsby-and the clerk ordered to furnish the proper certificates of disimission- To join the Presbyterian church in Caryell County at Farmersville. Closed with prayers.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 24th 1875
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Thomas J. Black, Mc A. Harris, J.W. Sherrill and G.M. Suggs. A Letter of Dismission granted to Miss. Mary G. Morgan and certificate to be furnished by the clerk of Session. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
per McCamey A. Harris
Note:
During the “dark days” of our church history embracing a period of more than two years it is probable that some business of importance may have been enacted which from some cause was never recorded. Our old book shows nothing from August 24th 1875 until January 28th 1877.
McCamey A. Harris
January 28th 1877
According to appointment, Green Hill Congregation met and was constituted by prayer. G.M. Suggs in the chair. The object of the meeting being to secure a Minister for this church, a letter from Rev. T.H. Skidmore was read, and also other letters pertaining to the subject under consideration. After a free discussion of the matter it was decided on motion by a unanimous vote to extend a call to Rev. T.H. Skidmore of Grayson County as ministerial Supply for the whole of his time at a salary of Four hundred and twenty five dollars, the amount having first been subscribed. Meeting adjourned. Closed with prayer and G.M. Suggs requested to notify Rev. T.H. Skidmore at once of our action.
Received and corrected by McCamey A. Harris
February 25th 1877
Rev. T.H. Skidmore commenced Ministerial Service for Green Hill with Salary above. G.M. Suggs
Per McCamey A. Harris
March 11th 1877
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. T.H. Skidmore. Mod and Elders G.M. Suggs, James Sherrill, Mc A. Harris. On motion McCamey A. Harris was appointed Delegate to Presbytery to meet at Paris March 29th and J.W. Sherrill as alternate. Closes with prayer.
G.M. Suggs
March 18th 1877
Green Hill Congregation met in accordance with the previous appointment to consider the propriety of sending up a call to Presbytery to have Rev. T.H. Skidmore Installed as Pastor of this church. The meeting was opened with prayer-and after the objects of the meeting had been duly explained, and advantages of making the above change set fourth- It was resolved on motion to order the Session to make a call out to be sent to Presbytery at Paris, to have the relations between this church and Rev. T.H. Skidmore changed and a day fixed for Installation-voted unanimous-ad a call made out in due form-closed with prayer by the Mod.
Moderator- G.M. Suggs
March 31st 1877
Minutes approved by Presbytery at Paris, Texas March 31st except as follows- 1st Book not examined since 1874- 2nd In electing Elders and Deacons it does not appear whether elected by church or the world- and 3rd on page 79 (of old book) (see new book page 47) proceedings were commenced against certain persons which from records some never to have concluded.
W.N. Dickey, Mod.
April 28th 1877
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. T.H. Skidmore Mod. And Elders Mc A. Harris, J.W. Sherrill and G.M. Suggs. Received by letter Elder I.T. Suggs and wife Mrs. Jane H. Suggs from the Paris Presbyterian church. Also received on examination and profession of faith Mrs. Dixie Suggs. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
April 29th 1877
Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was administered by the Rev. T.H. Skidmore.
July 15th 1877
Rev. T.H. Skidmore was installed Pastor of Green Hill church- done by order of Paris Presbytery- Rev. H.B. Boude and Rev. W.N. Dickey Officiating.
July 22th 1877
Session met and was opened with prayer by the Moderator- Present Rev. T.H. Skidmore and Elders Dr. I.T. Suggs, G.M. Suggs and Mc A. Harris. Received on examination Leonides A. Suggs in full communion of the church. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
August 26th 1877
Session met-opened with prayer- present Rev. T.H. Skidmore, Elders I.T. Suggs, J.W. Sherrill and G.M. Suggs. Received on examination in full communion with the church Miss Sarah C. Harris and Charles S. Harris. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
September 9th 1877
Session met. Present Rev. T.H. Skidmore. Ruling Elders I.T. Suggs, J.W. Sherrill and J.M. Suggs. Received by letter from Rockford Presbyterian Church Mrs. Jane Skidmore and Mr. Samuel Shepperson. Closed with prayer.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
October 27th 1877
At a meeting of the Congregation held for the purpose of electing Elders and Deacons. J.N. Grigsby and J.M. Morgan were elected Elders and E.M. Black and Andrew Walker were elected Deacons.
Note: In due time Brother J.N. Grigsby was ordained and Installed to the office of Ruling Elder and Edward M. Black , to the office of Deacon. Brother J.M. Morgan declined to serve as a Ruling Elder, and Brother A. Walker declined to serve as Deacon.
McCamey A. Harris
Note: Rev. T.H. Skidmore asked to obtain permission of this church to preach one Sabbath in each month to the church at Rockyford in Lamar County, to begin July 22, of the year indicated at the head of margin.
February 17th 1878
Session met. Present Rev. T.H. Skidmore and Elders Dr. I.T. Suggs, J.W. Sherrill and J.M. Suggs. Letters of Dismission were granted to the following persons, Mr. William G. Suggs and wife Mrs. Mary C. Suggs and Leonides Suggs to join the Presbyterian church wherever God in his Providence might cast their lots.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
March 10th 1878
Session met. Present Rev. T.H. Skidmore and Elders I.T. Suggs, J.W. Sherrill and G.M. Suggs. Letters of dismission were granted to D.E. Hall and Samuel Shepperson.
G.M. Suggs, clerk
Note: At a meeting of Presbytery held in Texarkana in April 1878- the following criticisms were made by the committee for examination of records.
1st Some of the Sessional meetings seen from records to have been opened and closed without prayer.
2nd The order in which the records had been kept were somewhat seatering, but otherwise approved.
W.M. McElree, chairman of committee
and Jas E. Porter, Mod.
October 19th 1878
Rev. T.H. Skidmore asked the Congregation to join him in a request to Presbytery for the Dissolution of Pastoral relations existing between himself and the church of Green Hill which was done by a resolution to be forwarded to Presbytery at its next meeting
Mc A. Harris in the chair
C.C. Horn Sec.
October 19th 1878
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. T.H. Skidmore Mod. Elders I.T. Suggs, Mc A. Harris, G.M. Suggs and J.W. Sherrill. Letters of dismission were granted to the following named persons: Elders G.M. Suggs and James W. Sherrill- Mr. R.L. Suggs and wife Mrs. Sallie Suggs- Mrs. Caroline Suggs, Mrs. Dovey Sherrill, Mrs. E.S. Evans, Miss Carrie Suggs and G.M. Suggs Jr. It was ordered that on the 4th Sabbath of the present month a meeting of Congregation should be held for the purpose of electing two additional Elders and two Deacons. Closed with prayer.
T.H. Skidmore, clerk
NOTE:
Rev. T.H. Skidmore having taken charge of our church book- No records appear from the above date until March 27th 1881- a period of about two and a half years. It is quite probable that some important transactions may have occurred during that period.
March 27th 1881
Congregation met and after preaching by Rev. T.H. Skidmore it was agreed that a letter be written to Rev. O.T. Stark asking him to accept of the Pastoral care of Green Hill church for the present year. A subscription was taken up to see what amount could be raised for his salary and Elder Mc A. Harris was requested to confer with Mount Pleasant church and try to secure their cooperation, and was also requested to correspond with
Rev. O.T. Sark
Rev. T.H. Skidmore Chairman
McCamey A. Harris, sec.
June 19th 1881
Congregation met with Rev. W.W. Brimm in the chair- Unfinished business was taken up- Report of Committee to confer with Mt. Pleasant church and t correspond with Rev. O.T. Stark was called for. Whereupon the committee reported that Rev. O.T. Stark had refused to take charge of Green Hill and Mt. Pleasant churched because of other arrangements. The Congregation then proceeded to the election of officers, a notice of which had been formally given, resulting in the election of Dr. E.M. Roberts to the office of Ruling Elder, and Theodore H. Green and Richard S. Hood to the office o Deacon- All of whom were Ordained and Installed during the afternoon service of the same day. Closed with prayer.
W.W. Brinon Chairman
McCamey A. Harris, Sec.
March 27th 1881
Session met and was opened with prayer by Rev. T.H. Skidmore- Doors of the church being open for the reception of members (none were added). On motion of J.N. Grigsby it was ordered that McCamey A. Harris take charge of the church books and act as clerk of Session. On motion McCamey A. Harris was also appointed to attend a meeting of Presbytery to be held at Pleasant Valley April 7th 1881. There being no other business, Session closed with prayer.
Rev. T.H. Skidmore Mod.
McCamey A. Harris, clerk
June 19th 1881
Session et and was opened with prayer. The following named members were received into the church by letter from Lebanon church (Old School Presbyterian) Hinds County Mississippi: Dr. E.M. Roberts, Mrs. M.A. Roberts and Miss Anna Roberts. And the following named persons were dismissed and letters granted to join Mt. Pleasant church: Elder Dr. I.T.Suggs and wife Mrs. J.H. Suggs and Mr. Andrew Walker. Closed wit prayer.
W.W. Brinn Mod.
McCamey A. Harris, clerk
Note:
Miss Hattie Cobb was received into the church on profession of faith in Christ and was Baptized. No record seems to have been made of this in our Old book.
August 7th 1881
Session met and was opened with prayer by Rev. W.W. Brinn who acted as Mod. Mr. C.C. Black appeared before the Session and was received on profession of faith. Session closed with prayer.
W.W. Brinn, Mod.
McCamey A. Harris, clerk
August 8th 1881
Session met and was opened with prayer at 7:30 p.m. The following named persons were duly examined and received into the church: Mr. W.L. Hood and Mrs. T.G. Thompson. Closed with prayer.
W.W. Brinn, Mod
McCamey A. Harris, clerk
August 9th 1881
Session met and was opened with prayer. Mr. J. Thompson was received on examination as a member of this church and the ordinance of Baptism administered by Mod. Closed with prayer.
W.W. Brinn, Mod
McCamey A. Harris, clerk
August 9th 1881
Congregation met for the purpose of making an effort to procure the services of some Minister to supply Green Hill church with regular preaching which resulted in extending a call to Rev. R. Waddell of Arkansas, and a committee consisting of Dr. E.M. Roberts and Mc A. Harris appointed to correspond with Rev. R. Waddell and also to confer with Mt. Pleasant church.
Rev. W.W. Brinn, chairman
McCamey A. Harris, Sec.
August 10th 1881
Session met and was opened with prayer. After due examination Mr. John Skidmore was received on profession of his faith as a member of this church. Session closed with prayer.
Rev. W.W. Brinn Mod
McCamey A. Harris, clerk
August 11th 1881
Session met and was opened with prayer. The following persons were received on profession of their faith in Christ as members of this church: Mr. J.H. Thompson, Miss. Mary E. Thompson and Mr. Eddie Roberts. After which each received the ordinance of Baptism. Rev. W.W. Brimm officiating. Closed with prayer.
McCamey A. Harris, clerk
August 13th 1881
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. W.W. Brinn Mod. Elders present Dr. E.M. Roberts, J.N. Grigsby, and Mc A. Harris. Mrs. Carrie Grigsby wife of Albert Grigsby was received into the church in profession of her faith and the ordinance of Baptism duly administered. Closed with prayer.
McCamey A. Harris, clerk
NOTE: During the present year Rev. W.W. Brinn was acting as Evangelist for and within the bounds of Paris Presbytery.
August 14th 1881
Session met and was opened with prayer by Rev. W.W. Brinn Mod. Elders present J.N. Grigsby, Mc A. Harris and Dr. E.M. Roberts. Mrs. Mary wife of James Thompson was on examination received as a member of this church, after which the ordinance of Baptism was administered. Closed with prayer.
McCamey A. Harris, clerk
August 15th 1881
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. W.W. Brinn, Mod. Elders Mc A. Harris, J.N. Grigsby and Dr. E.M. Roberts. On motion it was decided to appoint Dr. E.M. Roberts as a Delegate to Presbytery to meet at Texarkana September next with Mc A. Harris as Alternate. Session closed with prayer by Mod.
Mc A. Harris, clerk
February 26th 1882
Session opened with prayer. Rev. W.W. Brinn Evangelist being present acted as Mod. Elders E.M. Roberts, J.N. Grigsby and Mc A. Harris were present. Mrs. Low Green having appeared before Session was on profession of her faith in Christ received into the church and the Ordinance of Baptism administered to Sister Green and her infant son Theodore H. Green Jr. Adjourned until after preaching. After preaching Session was again called to order by Moderator- all members being present. The book of our Treasurer E.M. Black having been presented for examination, was duly examined and accounts approved by Session. On motion Dr. E,M, Roberts was appointed Delegate to attend Presbytery to meet at Greenville in Hunt County April 1st 1882. J.N. Grigsby Alternate. Closed with prayer by Mod.
Mc A. Harris, clerk
April 15th 1882
Congregation met- Being without states preaching, the object of the meeting was explained and after prayer by Brother J.N. Grigsby- Mc A. Harris was elected chairman and Dr. E.M. Roberts was elected Secretary. After a free conference it was on motion unanimously agreed to extend a call to Rev. Cornelius Miller of N.C. who was at the time on a visit to Texas- Whereupon a subscription was taken up and the amount of Three hundred and fifty seven dollars promised for his support for one half of his time. On motion the meeting adjourned. Prayer by Brother John H. Hood.
Mc A. Harris, chairman
E.M. Roberts, Sec.
Note: The Session of the church was directed by the Congregation to correspond with Rev. C. Miller. The call was not accepted because of previous engagements by said Rev. C. Miller.
July 23rd 1882
Session met and was opened with prayer by Rev. W.W. Brinn who was in attendance and who acted as Moderator. Elders present Dr. E.M. Roberts and J.N. Grigsby. The following members were received into the church on profession of their faith in Christ: Mrs. Sallie C. Benson and Miss. Ola Wilson- After which the Ordinance of Baptism was administered. Closed with prayer. Entered by order of the Session.
Mc. A. Harris, clerk
August 26, 1882
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. W.W. Brinn Mod. Elders present J.N. Grigsby and Dr. E.M. Roberts. Mrs. Alice Green was received by certificate from the M Church S and her name ordered enrolled as a member of Green Hill Church. Elder J.N. Grigsby was chosen as a Delegate to attend Presbytery at Rocky Ford in Lamar County to meet September 21st 1882. Dr. E.M. Roberts Alternate. Session closed with prayer.
Mc A. Harris, clerk
Note: During the fall of the present year a correspondence was opened between Dr. E.M. Roberts an Elder of our church and Rev. J.A. Graves of Mississippi- which resulted in a call from Green Hill church to Rev. J.A. Graves for one half of his time for the next year as stated.
March 1st 1883
Session met and was opened with prayer. Present Rev. J.A. Graves Mod. Elders J.M. Grigsby, E.M. Roberts and Mc A. Harris. On motion E.M. Roberts was chosen Delegate to Presbytery to meet at Honey Grove April 19th and J.N. Grigsby as Alternate. Session then adjourned to meet again on the first Sabbath of April.
Mc A. Harris, clerk
April 1st 1883
Session again met as pec adjourn, met and was opened with prayer. Members as above all present. Letters of Dismission were granted to Mr. Albert O. Grigsby and his wife Mrs. Carrie Grigsby, they having moved beyond the limits of this church. Adjourned to meet 1st Sabbath in July. Closed with prayer by the Mod.
Mc A. Harris, clerk
Note: Session failed to hold a meeting on the 1st Sabbath in July 1883to which last Session adjourned.
July 29th 1883
Session met at the call of the Moderator Rev. Joseph A. Graves, states Supply of Green Hill Church for the year 1883. Present Ruling Elders J.N. Grigsby and Dr. E.M. Roberts. After consultation about the affairs of the church, on motion August 17th 1883 set as the time for the next stated meeting of Session. Place Green Hill Church. On motion Session adjourned and was closed with prayer.
McCamey A. Harris, clerk