Bois Brule Baptist Church

Bois Brule Church

an Early Baptist Footprint

Thomas B. Sanders

Transcribed by Ira and Patricia Bishop Obrist Feb. 2003

Perry County Historical Society

Dedication

This book is dedicated to early Baptist men and women who through God’s Revolution established a place of worship in Perry County, Missouri and instilled a desire to share the gospel with the people.

“His name shall endure forever; his name shall be continued as long as the sun; and men shall be blessed by him; all nations shall call him blessed.” Psalm 73: 17

Acknowledgements:

These minutes and records of the Bois Brule Baptist Church as recorded by Joab Waters Burgee, its only clerk of record, were preserved by his daughter, Letitia Ann Burgee Sanders. These were passed on to her son Thomas B. Sanders. After the death of my parents and the time to dispose of their material possessions, my sister, Iva Sanders Morey, found a cigar box in an old stored in the attic. It contained these irreplaceable minutes. Surmising that they could be of some historical significance she placed them in safe keeping.

In 1974, while I was doing trunk research for the preparation of writing the sesquicentennial history of the Cape Girardeau Baptist Assn., I found in the 1935 annual minutes that my mother reported that she had the original minutes and other correspondence of the Bois Brule Baptist Church. Upon inquiry my sister told me of her “find” in the attic. This gave me impetus to compile more information and to write this history.

Mr. Joe More went with me to the Preston Cemetery and helped me with the platting and gravestone identification and for this help, I give him thanks and appreciation. Thanks and appreciation is further extended to Mrs. Doyle (Linda) Brown who spent many hours typing the original script to prepare it for printing. My wife, Helen, helped immeasurably with the organization of the materials into a readable account. I publicly express my appreciation to her. The purpose of this publication is to preserve the records of an early Baptist church and to acknowledge the efforts of dedicated Christian workers. signed Thomas B. Sanders

Contents

History of the Bois Brule Baptist Church ............................. 1

Available Minutes of the Church ............................................ 4

Picture of Austin HOGARD, the First Pastor of the Church..........14

Pastors Who Served the Church ................................................... 16

Explanation of the Word “Bois Brule” .......................................... 17

Membership List of Church in 1858 ...............................................18

Available Names of Members of Church from 1807 – 1879 ..........19

Rules of Decorum Adopted by Church ...........................................21

Church Covenant .............................................................................23

Articles of Faith .............................................................................. 25

Membership Transfer Certificate .................................................... 32

Map Showing Location of Church Site and Cemetery.....................33

Burial Record of Bois Brule-Preston Cemetery ...............................34

History of Bois Brule Baptist Church

The Bois Brule Baptist Church provided an important link of the historic chain of early work in Southeast Missouri. This Church had its beginning in what is now known as the Sereno community of Perry County, Missouri. The Church site is part of the Raymond BROWN farm about one mile east of Highway 51 at Sereno. The entrance to the site is by way of a private road.

The first church service was held September 19, 1807, in the log Bois Brule School under the auspices of the Bethel Church of near Jackson, Missouri. Although the Bethel Church had been organized only fourteen months earlier on July 19, 1806, it extended its arm to a few Baptists who saw need of a church in Perry Co. With faith in God and the zeal to do his will the work prospered and souls were converted and the membership grew. It was thirty five years after that first meeting before the church was formally organized July 2, 1842 with the following charter members – Austin HOGARD and wife, Mary, Elizabeth HOGARD, Althea HOGARD, Joel CHANDLER, Mary PRESTON, and Levina BARTLETT. Elizabeth and Althea were not children of Austin HOGARD.

The school house was used as the meeting place until 1859, when the new church building was completed. It was built on land donated to the church by James PRESTON and his wife, Achsah. The county courthouse records (Bk. 11, p. 150) preserve this information

“James PRESTON and wife, Achsah on January 31, 1857 deeded to Joab W. BURGEE, James PRESTON, and Lewis THORP, trustees of the Baptist Church called Bois Brule for love, respect, good will and one dollar ($1.00) two acres of land. The description is thus: from a certain cornerstone running S 13 rods from thence E 24 2/3 rods thence N 13 rods from thence West 242/3 rods to the beginning so as to include two acres.” When the farm changed ownership April 6, 1876 the cemetery lot was surveyed with the following description: commencing 26 rods, 15 links, 63 ½ degrees east from a certain cornerstone at the northwest corner of section 28 in township 36 N of range 11 E thence south 61 ½ degrees about 18 rods to a stone thence N 41 degrees E 24 rods to a stone thence N 65 ½ degrees W 20 rods to a stone thence S 48 degrees 13 rods to the place of the beginning to include two acres. The new owner of the farm, Lawrence BROWN, was paid $25.00 for this survey. This time the deed was rewritten on April 6, 1876 to show that Lawrence BROWN and Theresa BROWN deeded the acreage to Joab W. BURGEE, James PRESTON, and Harlan MAY, trustees of the Bois Brule Baptist Church. (Title to the deed of the cemetery is now held by the Lithium Baptist Church, Lithium, MO.)

Although at one time the public road passed by the church, it is now isolated and one must get permission from the Raymond BROWN family to get to the cemetery. After the county road was closed it was difficult to get to the cemetery for burials in rainy or winter weather. The funeral procession would get stuck and the casket would have to be carried a long distance. Ropes or harness check lines were used to lower the casket into the grave. All that remains at the site is the burial ground known as the Preston Cemetery. Sixty-five stones identify as many graves. The church records list another sixty names of persons as being buried there. The earliest readable stone marks the gravesite of Nancy BURGEE, born June 29, 1837 and died Oct. 24, 1837. Another early dated marker records the death of Thomas BURGEE, born April 26, 1839 and died Aug. 16, 1841. These were children of Joab W. BURGEE and Elizabeth BURNS BURGEE. The last person buried there was William T. PHILLIPS, born Nov. 10, 1857 and died Dec. 18, 1934. A complete listing of burials will be made at the end of this report.

The church membership began to grow from the very first meeting on Sept. 19, 1807 when Brother James W. WRIGHT and Sister Lydia WRIGHT were received by letter. (Minutes of Bethel Baptist Church, p. 5) On Nov. 14, 1807 Anna DONNAHOE was received for baptism. Thomas and Mary DONNAHOE, Thomas WRIGHT, William LODES, and Rachael FIELDS were received by baptism on Dec. 20, 1807. Sister FLINN was received by statement of experience on that same date. On Feb. 27, 1808 the church met in conference and received the following members by baptism: John DUVALL, Thomas FIELDS, Martha MASSEY, J. Nathan PRESTON, and Mary PRESTON.

As a matter of historical interest it should be noted that Mary PRESTON was the daughter of Michael and Mary SPICER BURNS who was the widow of Thomas COCHRAN and had several small children when she married George PRESTON and was later the mother of James PRESTON the donor of the two acres of land to the Bois Brule Baptist Church.

When the church met in conference on April 23, 1808 the membership increased by five when Mary EVANS, Rebecca WRIGHT, Asena WRIGHT, and Edward LODER were received by experience. Again while the church was in conference on July 3, 1808 Joan CRIPE and Edatha ELLIS were received by experience. ( pp. 5-6 ibid.) The church minutes did record admittance of members by letter, baptism, or by experience statement and they also listed those members who were dismissed and for whatever reason. Some moved out of the community while others could not live up to the church’s strict rules of decorum. At a church conference on Sept. 3, 1808 “Lydia WRIGHT was excluded for holding erroneous doctrine of falling from grace and trying to lead others in the same error.” Rebecca WRIGHT was excluded for joining the Methodist society.

As one reads these excerpts from the minutes of the Bois Brule Baptist Church from 1857 to 1879 the real purpose and methods can be studied. The original minutes are in a bad state of preservation, now mouse eaten, yellowed and torn. Most are written on single pieces of paper with dates omitted in many cases.

June 1, 1857 Sabbath morning sacraments of the Lord’s Supper where administered. June 7, 1858 the Baptist called Bois Brule Church proceeded to business. On the motion and second Sister E. FURGERSON was excluded from the church and also Sam GATELY for “divers complaint” becoming intoxicated, swearing and heresy. Redman PHILIPS charges his mother with her son Marion of opening the gate to his wheat field and turning his horse in and leaving the gate open, and talking to strangers about him. And also against E. PHILLIPS for unbecoming conduct in keeping company with a man who has a wife. After some deliberation it was agreed to give the combatants until the next church meeting to settle their difficulties, if not the church agreed to exclude all of them.

(signed) Joab W. BURGEE, church clerk.

Sept. 5, 1863 (Saturday) Received by letter Brother Jess and Sister FOX. On the Sabbath morning received by experience Sister Nancy REED and Sister Nancy BECHTEL. On Monday by experience Sister Mary M. BRUNNER and Peter BECHTEL; by letter Nathan MIDDLETON, Sister Iris REED, by baptism. On Wednesday received Peter BRUNNER and wife by experience. Thursday morning there was a baptizing.

(signed) Joab W. BURGEE. church clerk.

Dear Bro. I received yours of the 6^th with pleasure and was glad to find that amid our national troubles you were not entirely spiritually dead. We expect to try to hold our next association at the Goshen Church commencing on Saturday before the second Lord’s day in September. Some of the churches have elected delegates and hope that you may be represented. Nothing of interest to write. We keep our regular Sabbath meetings. Amen to your prayer that churches may arise from her coldness and lethargy and again enjoy the smiles of heaven.

Yours truly, John H. CLARK

September 6, 1863

To the members of Goshen Church, Cape County, Missouri

The members of the Bois Brule Church sendth <sic.> greetings: resolved that the church be ordered to notify Goshen Church in Cape Girardeau County, Missouri or the pastor or clerk in vacation: Bro. Sam LEWIS and William CLIPPARD have presented themselves to the Bois Brule Church, Perry County, Missouri, asking to be received into fellowship with said church. Now know ye that you are hereby notified to prefer your charges proper transacted before this church on Saturday preceding the first Sabbath in December 1863, or else it will be taken for granted that you have none to prefer and the brethren will be received into full fellowship in this church. (signed) Joab W. BURGEE, church clerk.

November 18^th 1863

Mr. Joab W. BURGEE

Dear Bro.:

Your letter in behalf of the Bois Brule Church to the church at Goshen was received on Saturday, 14inst <sic.> at the regular session at the church meeting and was read to the church. When the following action was had. The determined and sent the charges against Bro. LEWIS and CLIPPARD and a committee was appointed to collect and prepare them. This committee is to report to the Goshen Church as the next meeting that is on Saturday preceding the 3^rd Sunday in the next month and I as pastor have been requested to write this letter in behalf of the church to request Bois Brule Church to defer action on these Bros. LEWIS and CLIPPARD until the church at Goshen can send the charges which will be as soon as possible after the December meeting. This Brother LEWIS said he thought the church at Bois Brule would do.

Praying for you, prospering in the Lord and asking and interest in your prayers,

I submit myself

Your brother in Christ,

Thos. B. TURNBAUGH

November 25, 1863

The brethren of the church at Goshen

The brethren comprising the Bois Brule Church

Sends greetings:

Dear Brethren,

Your letter of the 18^th received. The unfinished business of the last meeting was taken up --- the case of Brethren LEWIS and William CLIPPARD being under consideration brother Thos. B. TURNBAUGH has written a communication. Evidence has been produced that the said brethren LEWIS and CLIPPARD were excluded members of the Goshen Church and that they are not officially from the Goshen Church. On this day Sam LEWIS and William CLIPPARD presented themselves to this church and asking for church membership. On motion and second the church voted to receive them into full fellowship with said church when the moderator gave them the right hand of the fellowship.

(signed) J. W. BURGEE, church clerk

The brethren of the church at Goshen to

The brethren comprising the Bois Brule Church

Sends greetings

Dear Brethren,

Your letter to this church requesting the charge it has against Samuel LEWIS and William CLIPPARD was received at our last regular meeting and read to the church; whereupon a committee was appointed to take the matter under advisement and proffer the charges. But on more mature deliberation the committee made the following report which was adopted by the church, viz.:

Whereas, it is one of the plainest principals of Baptist usage that every church is independent and that therefore its decisions are final when reversed by a mutual council, be it therefore resolved 1^st that we cannot comply with your request and therefore we cannot send the charges as is desired by the Bois Brule Church against Messers Samuel LEWIS and William CLIPPARD. Resolved 2^nd that to preserve harmony among churches and brethren and to aid in the speedy adjustment of the difficulty now pending, that we -- although uninvited are willing to refer the case to a judicial council to be mutually chosen; said council to meet at some convenient time and with the church most convenient to the Bois Brule and Goshen Churches.

Resolved 3^rd, that a copy of the resolutions be forwarded to the Bois Brule Church and that they be copied on the records of this church.

John VALLEY

Daniel SIDES, committee

L. D. SIMPSON

July 1, 1865

On motion and second Brother Jess FOX, Peter BRUENNER and James PRESTON were unanimously elected as a committee to make out an estimate and solicit aid in contributing toward the completion of the Bois Brule Church building and that they report at the earliest day practicable. Done in church conference on July 1, 1865.

February 9, 1869

Bois Brule Church met on Tuesday after the first Sabbath in February 1869 and being the ninth day of the month at the district schoolhouse. Prayer and sermon by Brother Joseph G. RUTTER. At the conclusion the door of the church was opened for the reception of members when Sister Louisa --- was received on her Christian experience. The right hand of fellowship was extended to her and be received in full fellowship of said church after baptism. Meeting adjourned to Tuesday after the first Sabbath in March.

(signed) Joab W. BURGEE, c.c.

May 2, 1870

Brother George HOLLEY, clerk

Goshen Church in Cape County, Missouri

Dear Brother,

Bois Brule Church at its last regular church meeting held on the second day of May, 1870, elected Brother John T. FORD as pastor for the ensuing year. Among other proceedings had on that day the following resolutions were adopted:

Resolved that inasmuch as Bois Brule Church had called Bro. J. T. FORD to the pastoral care of said church the clerk of the Bois Brule Church notify the Goshen Church by letter with a request that a presbytery be called for his ordination and that he be set aside for the gospel ministry. Brother FORD has been visiting our church since February last and we have been blessed with refreshing seasoning and we humbly pray to the giver of all good his benign influence over us. Since Brother FORD has been visiting us there has been received in to our church 21 by experience, 4 by letter, restored 4 making in all 29. Surely we have a great cause for rejoicing.

(signed) J. W. BURGEE, church clerk

December 31^st 1870

All to whom the presence shall come greetings:

Know ye that a regular church meeting held with Bois Brule Church in Perry County, state of Missouri that Peter S. BRUNNER was unanimously elected by said church to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Done in church conference December 31^st 1870

(signed) Joab W. BURGEE. church clerk

Feb. 10, 1872

The Bois Brule Church met on Saturday, 10^th of February 1872, being the Saturday before the second Sabbath. This month Bro. J. T. FORD, pastor, failed to attend, Brother James WARREN of Pleasant Grove filled his appointment. At the conclusion of church service the church sat in conference to attend to church business. Bro. Harlan MAY presented his letter and asked for church membership. On motion and second he was unanimously received and extended the right hand of fellowship. The committee who had charge of notifying absent members to attend our regular church meetings made there report which was accepted and the meeting discharged. Bro. MIDDLETON desiring a church to continue his case until the next regular meeting in March as he was unable to attend this present meeting. Request granted accordingly.

Bro. P. S. BRUENNER offered his resignation as deacon of Bois Brule Church. On motion and second the same was accepted by the church. (signed) Joab W. BURGEE, c.c.

March 9, 1872

Bois Brule Church met on Saturday, the 9^th of March, 1872, being the second Saturday of the month. Prayer and a sermon by J. T. FORD, pastor. At the conclusion of the church service the door was opened for reception when Louisa MAYO united with the Bois Brule Church. On motion and second the case of Bro. Nathan MIDDLETON was continued to the April meeting. Bro. Frank SMITH was appointed as a committee to notify him. On motion and second the church granted Sister Lucinda REED a letter and the clerk ordered to comply.

Resolved that at our next regular church meeting in April the church will proceed to elect a deacon by private vote to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Peter S. BRUENNER. (signed) Joab W. BURGEE, c.c.

April 13, 1872

Resolved: that we elect a pastor of the Bois Brule Church May 11, 1872.

Resolved: that a presbytery be called to ordain Bro. F. S. SMITH as a deacon of the Bois Brule Church, May 11, 1872 and that Bro. J. M. WARREN be required to attend and assist in the ordination. Done in church conference April 13, 1872.

(signed) Joab W. BURGEE, c.c.

May 1872

Resolved: that a committee be appointed to visit and labor with brethren James COLE, Frank FREEMAN, and Joel THORP for their non-attendance at church, and for profane swearing, and admonish them against such course. There shall be a report at next meeting, July next. Brethren William MORGAN, F. S. SMITH and James SADLER is <sic.> hereby appointed said committee. (signed ) J. W. BURGEE, c.c.

Sept. 15.

Perry County, Missouri

To the Baptist Church of Bois Brule,

I, your committee on a charge against Brother and Sister CHANDLER for denying the faith of the Baptist Church by joining Methodists. By your leave I beg to submit the following: Visiting them on September 15 and upon disclosing my capacity and business to them, I was cordially received, gave me their answer that they had voluntarily joined a class of Methodists at the Allen School House and did not wish to retract and wished the church to exclude them accordingly. As a reason for so doing, said it was because mainly the church mistreated Bro. Peter BRUENNER by refusing to deliver to him a license to preach the gospel when he requested it. And they thought themselves mistreated by the church by failing to visit them while sick. That Bro. Peter BRUENNER was the only one of the church that ever darkened their door during their illness and further that they knew they had been made light of by some of the members. Further they said not. Your Committee,

Peter S. BRUENNER

Perry County, Missouri

Oct. 6, 1872

To the church called Bois Brule,

You are notified that in regular conference by the church at Pleasant Grove, Perry County, Missouri, Peter S. BRUENNER made application to us for membership and produced a letter of recommendation from you which we considered and admitted him into our body and fellowship. He is now numbered with us. Fraternally,

Peter S. BRUENNER, c.c.

A Letter from Jackson Church

Jackson, Missouri

June 10, 1870

Bro. J. T. FORD, pastor,

Will you please send me the date of the organization of Bois Brule Church the names of all the pastors and when they were there, also send present statistics and such other information that will be of interest in the history of the church. Let me hear from you as soon as possible.

Yours in Labor and Love,

J. REID

This message On a postcard was received by the clerk of Bois Brule Church on Fed. 14, 1879 indicates the church was still active.

Jackson, MO

14 Feb. 1879

Dear Bro. BURGEE,

I have been appointed missionary for southeast Missouri and I want to visit your community either the last of this month or in March. Let me hear from you relative to this matter. Would it be advisable to hold a protracted meeting?

Your brother in Christ.,

T. A. BOWMAN

Records of the Activities of the Bois Brule Church after the year 1872 are very scarce.

The minutes of the Cape Girardeau Association for the year 1878 reported “Two Churches, Bois Brule and Flat Wood are now extinct.” During the years when Baptist work was getting a foothold in Southeast Missouri the Bois Brule Church contributed its important share to the growth. Austin HOGARD was first pastor of the church and served ten years. He also was a medical doctor, large landholder and owned a lumber mill. His son, A. B. [HOGARD], became a preacher and went on a missionary journey to Lawrence County, Arkansas. He served there until his death and was buried in Stranger Home, Arkansas. Thomas DONAHUE was converted in the church Dec. 20, 1807 and later ordained and became pastor of the Baptist of Barrens located about a mile northeast of Perryville. Church services were held in the home of John DUVALL from 1816 and continued as long as brother DONOHUE lived. According to the county marriage records he performed a marriage in 1842. Peter BRUENNER was also ordained as a preacher and served as pastor of Pleasant Grove Church. Joab W. BURGEE was the only clerk the church had and was a respected trustee. He served as a school board member. Emma BURGEE the daughter of Joab and Elizabeth BURNS BURGEE, a church member, taught the Bois Brule School.

When the Lithium Baptist Church was established Sept. 4, 1886, some of its Charter Members had been members of the Bois Brule Church. By this time the Bois Brule Church had been disbanded.

One tally sheet for election of pastor shows four preachers were being considered at the same time with the following results:

James WATTS – 3 votes Austin HOGARD – 1 vote

James CLEVELAND – 1 vote A. B. HOGARD – 17 votes

(A. B. HOGARD was son of Austin HOGARD.)

Election for pastor of Bois Brule Church in 1860

A. B. HOGARD 8 votes COKES – 4 votes,

Austin HOGARD 0 votes

Election of pastor (no year given)

A. B. HOGARD 14 votes

Austin HOGARD 0 votes

Election of pastor for year 1870 – 71 up to 1st of May.

J. T. F ORD– 13 votes Joseph G. RUTTER 1 vote

R. MOORE – 12 votes

Election for pastor 1871

J. T. FORD – 19 votes J. G. RUTTER – 0 votes

BLAYLOCK no votes

Chronological Order in Which Pastors Served:

Austin HOGARD 1842-1852

A. B. HOGARD 1853 – 1860 possibly

Joseph RUTTER 1869

John T. FORD 1870

Peter S. BRUENNER Dec. 31 1870

James WARREN supply

R. MOORE 1871

Bois Brule

“Bois Brule” is a French name meaning burning bush or burnt bush. This name was given to the northeastern part of the Perry County by the French while they had claim to this territory. Today it is the name of the township which encompasses much of the Mississippi River bottom land as well as the river bluffs. It begins at a point southwest of Serino and runs to river west of Claryville, hence along the river to a point below Jones Island east of Menfro, and back to place of beginning.

The Bois Brule Post Office was located on the river below Belgique at Allen’s Landing and was established March 12, 1875 with William Russell ALLEN as the first post master.

A List of the Names of Members belonging to Bois Brule Baptist Church

Revised and Corrected May 3^rd 1858

Joab M. BURGEE, C. C.

Members No. Remarks

Mary PRESTON 1 Bapt.

Elvirta THORP 2 “ (departed this life May 31? 1865)

* 3 “ (dismissed by letter June 1865)

* “

* 5 “

* WATERS 6 “

Sally (servant) “ 7 “

Delila ARIC 8 “

Rebecca BISHOP 9 “

Elizabeth BURGEE 10 “

Nancy WINFIELD 11 “ (letter excluded June 1865)

Ellen J. HOGARD 12 “ (dismissed by letter June 1865)

Redmon PHILLIPS 13 “

Virginia L. BISHOP 14 ”

Rebecca WINFIELD 15 “

James PRESTON 16 “

Acksah PRESTON 17 “

Elizabeth A. PHILLIPS 18 “

Susan F. TAYLOR 19 “

Silas HUMPHREY 20 “ (received by letter, excluded July 31, 1858)

James BURGEE 21 “

Teresa A. WINFIELD 22 “

* 23 “ deceased 1860

* 24 “ deceased 1864

* 25 “ deceased 1861

* 26 “

* 27 “

Clara (serv’t) 28 “

Melville WINFIELD 29 “

Jackson SADDLER 30 “ (excluded Oct. 2, 1858)

Hannah (free colored) 31 “

Malinda (serv’t) CLARK 32 “

Massy Ann (serv’t)G. Perry? 33 “

Joab W. BURGEE 34 “

Jacob (slave) J. RHODES 35 “

Mary (slave) “ “ 36 “

George LEWIS 37 ” (excluded April 2, 1861)

Catherine BISHOP 38 “ (excluded )

William PINKERTON 39 “ (? by letter)

Austin HOGARD 40 X (deceased)

Mary HOGARD 41 “

Diantha THORPE 42 “ (excluded 20 April 1861)

John PINKERTON 43 “ (dismissed by letter)

Paralee PHILLIPS 44 “ (deceased)

Elizabeth APPLEGATE 45 “ (excluded)

Letitia Ann BURGEE 46 “

Sarah E. PHILLIPS 47 “

Elizabeth SADDLER 48 “

Rebecca PHILLIPS 49 “

Ann COCHRAN 50 “

Sherald ABERNATHY 51 “

Lucinda HARTLY 52 “

Jesse FOX 53 “

Sister FOX 54 “

Peter BECTEL 55 “

Nancy BECTEL 56 “

Nathan MIDDLETON 57 “

Mary BRUENNER 58 “

(* page torn off)

Membership of the Bois Brule Baptist Church

1807 – 1879

*Charter Member

RULES OF DECORUM 1857 BOIS BRULE BAPTIST CHURCH

1. Every church meeting shall commence with public worship.

2. The moderator to take the chair whose duty is to keep order and shall be entitled to the same privilege of speaking as any other member, by calling some other brother to moderate during the exercise of such privilege. He shall not vote unless the church be equally divided.

3. Everything shall be taken up by motion and seconded.

4. Only one member to speak at a time who shall rise and address the moderator and strictly adhere to the subject in debate, cast no reflection on the brothers or their imperfections in discussion of any subject.

5. No person shall speak more than three times on any one subject without the consent of the church.

6. No person to address another in church meeting by any appellation (title) other than brother.

7. All church business shall be recorded by the clerk in the clerk book.

8. All business shall be determined by the majority, except in the reception of members and exclusion of members when two-thirds vote shall be required in either case.

9. To take 18^th chapter of Matthew as our guide with disorderly members.

10. Any church member being absent two church meetings in succession shall be cited and visited by committee. (Erased from the rules by church order Feb. 28, 1858)

11. To inquire after the peace of the church.

12. All members are requested to bridle their tongues and say the least of their neighbors they can.

Committee: Mary PRESTON, P. EVANS, Lewis THORP, Broad HOGARD, Elizabeth PHILLIPS, Elvirta THORP, (also four more unreadable names) .

Signed: J. W. BURGEE, church clerk

CHURCH COVENANT OF BOIS BRULE CHURCH

Having been, as we trust, by the divine grace to embrace the Lord Jesus Christ and to give up ourselves wholly unto him, we do now solemnly covenant with each other to walk together in him with brotherly love, to his glory as our common Lord, we do therefore engage that we will exercise a constant vigilance over one another; that we will strive for the advancement of the church in Christian love, knowledge, holiness and comfort to the end that we may stand perfect and complete in the will of God. That to promote and secure this object we well uphold the public worship of God and the ordinances of his house and that we will hold constant communion with each other therein.

That we cheerfully contribute of our property for the support of the poor, for the maintenance of faithful gospel ministry among us; that we will not omit closet prayer and family duty at home, or allow our selves in the too common neglect of the great duty of religiously training up our children and those under our care with the view to the service of Christ and the enjoyment of heaven; that we will walk circumspectively in the world that we may win souls to God and remembering that God has not given us the spirit of fear but of power and of love and of sound mind; that we are the light of the world and the salt of the earth, and remember a city set on a hill cannot be hid.

That we will frequently exhort and if occasion shall require, instruct one another according to the 18^th chapter of Matthew in the spirit of meekness, considering ourselves, lest we be likewise tempted, and that as in baptism we have been buried with Christ and raised again, so there is on us a special obligation, hence forth on us to walk in the newness of life and may the God of peace, who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the everlasting make us perfect in every good work to do his will working in us that which is well pleasing in his sight through Jesus to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen

Adopted

A. HOGARD, Moderator

DECLARATION OF FAITH

I. Of the Scriptures

We believe (that) the holy Bible was written by man divinely inspired, and is a perfect treasure of heavenly instruction; that it has God for its author, salvation for its end, and truth, without any mixture of error, for its matter; that it reveals the principles by which God will judge us; and therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the world, the true centre of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried.

II. Of the True God

(We believe ) that there is one, and only one, living and true (“true and living” in ed. 1853) God, (and infinite, intelligent spirit, ) whose name is Jehovah, the maker and supreme ruler of heaven and earth; inexpressibly glorious in holiness; (and) worthy of all possible honor, confidence, and love; revealed under the personal and relative in distinctions of (“revealed ...of the Father,” is as follows in ed. 1853, “that in the unity of the Godhead there are three persons the Father,” etc.) the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit;(“Ghost” in ed. 1853) equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption.

III. Of the Fall of Man

(We believe) that man was created in a state of (a state of” omitted in ed. 1853) holiness, under the law of his maker; but by voluntary transgression fell from that holy and happy state; in consequence of which all mankind are not sinners, not by constraint, but choice, being by nature utterly void of that holiness required by the law of God, wholly given to the gratification of the world, of Satan, and of their own sinful passions, (“wholly given .. sinful passions” is changed to “positively inclined to evil”in ed. 1853) therefore under just condemnation to eternal ruin, without defense or excuse.

IV. Of the Way of Salvation

(We believe) that the salvation of sinners is wholly of grace; through the mediatorial offices of the Son of God, (by appointment of the Father, freely) took upon him our nature, yet without sin; honored the (divine) law by his personal obedience, and made atonement for our sins by his death; (ed. 1853 reads, “and by his death made a full atonement for our sins” for “and made death”) being (“that having risen” in ed. 1853.risen from the dead he is now enthroned in heaven; and uniting in his wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfections (he) is every way qualified to be a suitable, compassionate, and an all-sufficient Saviour.

V. Of Justification

(We believe) that the great gospel blessing which Christ of his fullness bestows on such (For “of his.... such” ed. 1853 has “secures to such.”) as believe in Him, is justification; that justification consists in (for “consists in” ed. 1853 has “includes.”) the pardon of sin and the promise of eternal life, on principles of righteousness; that it is bestowed not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done, but solely through His own redemption and righteousness, (For “His own redemption and righteousness” ed. 1853 has “faith in the Redeemer’s blood.” (by virtue of which faith has perfect righteousness is freely imputed to us of God;) that it brings us into a state of most blessed peace and favor with God, and secures every other blessing needful for time and eternity.

VI. Of the Freeness of Salvation

(We believe) that the blessings of salvation are made free to all by the gospel; that it is the immediate duty of all to accept them by a cordial, (penitent), and obedient faith; and that nothing prevents the salvation of the greatest sinner on earth except (“but” in ed. 1853) his own (inherent depravity and) voluntary refusal to submit to the Lord Jesus Christ, (For “refusal to ... Jesus Christ” ed. 1853 has “rejection of the gospel.”) which refusal will subject him to (“which refusal ...to” changed to “which rejection involves him in.”) and aggravated condemnation.

VII. Of Grace in Regeneration

(We believe) that in order to be saved we (“Sinners” in ed. 1853) must be regenerated or born again; that regeneration consists in giving a holy disposition to the mind; and (For “and” ed, 1853 has “that it.”) is effected in a manner above our comprehension or calculation, (“Or calculation” omitted in ed. 1853.) by the power of the Holy Spirit, (in connection with divine truth) so as to secure our voluntary obedience to the gospel; and that its proper evidence is (“is found ... in God” appears in ed. 1853 as follows: “appears in the holy fruits of repentance, and faith, and newness of life.”) found in the holy fruit which we bring forth to the glory of God.

VIII. Of God’s Purpose of Grace

(We believe) that election is the gracious (“eternal” in ed. 1853.) purpose of God, according to which he (graciously) regenerates, sanctifies, and saves sinners; that being perfectly consistent with the free agency of man, it comprehends all the means in connection with the end; that it is a most glorious display of God’s sovereign goodness, being infinitely (free,) wise, holy, and unchangeable; that it utterly excludes boasting, and promotes humility, (love,) prayer, praise,

trust in God and active imitation of his free mercy; that it encourages the use of means in the

highest degree; that it is (“may be” in ed. 1853.) ascertained by its effects in all who (truly) believe the gospel; (that it ) is the foundation of Christian assurance; and that to ascertain it with regard to ourselves, demands and deserves our (“the” in ed. 1853.) utmost diligence.

IX. Of the Perseverance of Saints

(We believe) that such only are real believers as endure unto the end; that their persevering attachment to Christ is the grand mark which distinguishes them from mere (“Superficial” in ed. 1853.) professors; that a special Providence watches over their welfare; and (that) they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.

X. (Of the) Harmony of the Law and the Gospel

(We believe) That the Law of God is the eternal and unchangeable rule of his moral government; that it is holy, just, and good; and that the inability which the Scriptures ascribe to fallen men to fulfill its precepts, arises entirely from their Love of sin; to deliver them from which, and to restore them through a Mediator to unfeigned obedience to the holy law, is one great end of the gospel, and of the means of grace connected with the establishment of the visible Church.

XI. Of a Gospel Church

(We believe) that a visible Church of Christ is a congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the Gospel; observing the ordinances of Christ; governed by his laws; and exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by his word; that it’s only proper (“scriptural” in ed. 1853.) officers are Bishops or Pastors and Deacons, whose qualifications, claims, and duties are defined in the Epistles to Timothy and Titus.

XII. Of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper

(We believe) that Christian Baptism is the immersion of a believer in water (“immersion... in” reads “immersion in water of a believer, into.”) in the name of the Father and Son and Spirit, (“Holy Ghost” in ed. 1853.) to show forth in a solemn and beautiful emblem, our faith in a (“the” in ed. 1853.) crucified, buried, and risen Saviour, with its purifying power, (For “with its purifying power” is substituted the following: “with its effect in our death to sin and resurrection to a new life” in ed. 1853.) that it is prerequisite to the privileges of a church relation; and to the Lord’s Supper, in which the members of the church, by the (sacred) use of bread and wine are to commemorate together the dying love of Christ; preceded always by solemn self-examination.

XIII. Of the Christian Sabbath

(We believe) that the first day of the week is the Lord’s-Day, or Christian Sabbath; and is to be kept sacred to religious purposes, by abstaining from all secular labor and (sinful) recreations; by the devout observance of all the means of grace, both private and public; and by preparation for the rest which remaineth for the people of God.

XIV. Of Civil Government

(We believe) that civil government is of divine appointment, for the interests and good order of human society; and that magistrates are to be prayed for, conscientiously honored and obeyed, except (only) in things opposed to the will of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the only Lord of the conscience, and the Prince of the kings of the earth.

XV. Of the Righteous and the Wicked

(We believe) That there is a radical and essential difference between the righteous and the wicked; that such only as through faith are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and sanctified by the Spirit of our God, are truly righteous in his esteem; while all such as continue in impenitence and unbelief are in his sight wicked, and under the curse; and this distinction holds among men both in and after death.

XVI Of the World to Come

(We believe) That the end of this (“The” in ed. 1853) world is approaching; that at the last day, Christ will descend from heaven, and raise the dead from the grave to final retribution; that a solemn separation will then take place; that the wicked will be adjudged to enless punishment, and the righteous to endless joy; and that this judgment will fix forever the final state of men in heaven or hell, on principles of righteousness.

One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism.

Mark XVI,15-16

And he said unto them go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature, he that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Romans VI, 3-4

Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ

were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried

with him by baptism into death; that like as Christ

was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father,

even so we also should walk in newness of life.

Ephesians IV, 4-6

There is one body, and one spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

One Lord, one faith, one baptism.

One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all,

and in you all.

1 Corinthians III, 11

For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

John XIII, 35

By this shall all men know that ye are my disciple, if ye have love one to another.

1 Peter II, 5

Ye also as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house,

and holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices,

acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

II Corinthians XIII, 11

Finally, brethren, farewell, be perfect, be of good conduct, be of one mind, live in peace;

and the God of love and peace shall be with you.

The Nine Mile Creek Baptist Church

To the __________________ Baptist Church of _____________________

Dear Brethren:

This is to certify that our Brother James H. HARGIS is a member in good standing and full fellowship with us, and at his own request is hereby dismissed for the purpose of uniting with you. When he has so united, and you so notify me his connection with us will cease.

Done by order of the church, at Ellis Grove, Randolph Co., Illlinois, August 8^th 1885.

Signed J. Carrol HARRIS, Moderator Pro Tem

Felix HUGHES, Clerk.

[This letter will be valid for 12 months from date.]

1915 Plat Map

showing the

Preston Cemetery

See Section 28

(circled), then owned by Lorenz Brown.

In 1993-4 the land was owned by

Gregg Haertling, who does not live on the land.

The cemetery is to the right on HWY 51, between County Roads #206 and #210. Is the first of two lanes, and dead ends just past the residence.

The Cemetery is barely visible just past the residence to the left. It is fenced, and was terribly over-grown when last visited.

The cemetery is to the right on HWY 51, between County Roads #206 and #210. Is the first of two

Preston Cemetery Record

O-18 ALLEN, Bessie – died March 1874, daughter of William & Anna L. ALLEN.

P-18 , Carlie – died 2 May 1872, daugher of W. & Anna L. ALLEN.

AMBERGER, Infant – 24 Nov. 1885 – died 24^th Dec. 1885, child of Joseph & Mary AMBERGER.

AA-26 , Joseph A. – 23 Dec. 1831 – died Dec. 1922, husband of Mary,

Z-26 , Mary Ann, and Sarah a daughter.

U-25 , Mary ___ - 26 Dec. 1847 – 6 Nov. 1888, and wife of Joseph A. AMBERGER.

X-26 , Mary (twin) – 23 June 1902- 6 Sept. 1902, daughter of Joseph & Mary Ann AMBERGER.

A-26 , Mary Ann – 1863 – 16 Aug. 1902, third wife of Joseph A. AMBERGER.

Y-26 , Mattie (twin) –23 June 1902 –7 Oct. 1902, daughter of Joseph A. & Mary Ann AMBERGER.

R-25 , Sarah – 1846 – 1 Feb. 1877 first wife of Joseph A. AMBERGER.

___ ANDERSON, Priest – died 17 Apr. 1913, age 80 years, father of Joseph ANDERSON.

___ BASS, George – died 20 Feb. 1910, age 40 years, brother of F. M. BASS.

M-11 BAYER, Sarah – 27 May 1851 – 9 Aug. 1881, wife of John J. BAYER.

D-17 BURGEE, Annie – 25 Jan. 1883 – 15 Dec. 1889, daughter of James and second wife of Emily C. (BROWN) BURGEE.

O-17 , Elizabeth (BURNS) – 4 Apr. 1816 – 11 Feb. 1876, married 24 May 1832 to Joab Waters

BURGEE; daughter of James and Nancy (TUCKER) BURNS.

E-17 , Gracie L. 8 Oct. 1870 – 25 Oct. 1872, daughter of James and second wife, Emily C.(BROWN)

BURGEE.

H-17 , James – 19 Sept. 1833 – 28 Mar. 1870, first wife Susan A. CLARK, married 16 Feb. 1855; second

wife Emily C. BROWN, married 10 Nov. 1858.

P-13 , Joab Waters, Sr., 25 Aug. 1806 – 12 Dec. 1881, born in Frederick Co., MD; married 24 May

1832 to Elizabeth BURNS; son of Thomas and Anna (WATERS) BURGEE; Church Trustee &

Clerk of the Bois Brule Baptist Church.

M-17 , Joab W., Jr., - 16 Jan. 1850- 3 June 1875, husband of Catherine BOGARD; son of Joab Waters,

Sr. and Elizabeth (BURNS) BURGEE

F-17 , Mary F., 26 Aug. 1859 – 30 Sept. 1859, daughter of James and second wife, Emily C. (BROWN) BURGEE

O-13 , Nancy A. – 26 June 1837 – 24 Oct. 1837, daughter of Joab Waters, Sr. & Elizabeth (BURNS) BURGEE.

M-13 , Susan A – 14 Aug. 1855 – 17 July 1856, daughter of Joab Waters, Sr. & Elizabeth (BURNS)

BURGEE.

G-17 , Susan A. (CLARK) – 11 Aug. 1833 – 17 July 1856, first wife of James BURGEE, married 16

Feb. 1855.

N-13 , Thomas A.- 26 April 1839-16 Aug. 1841, son of Joab Waters, Sr. and Elizabeth (BURNS)

BURGEE.

B-3 , A. O. B. letters cut in rock .

C-3 , V. R. B., letters cut in rock, May 1906.

L-15 BURNS, James A. – 28 May 1825 – 22 Nov. 1873

T-11 CONLEY, Elizabeth – 1831-22 Jan. 1921, $5.00 was paid to get through gate to bury her.

___ COPPAWAY, __ child of Wm. & Mary COPPAWAY.

E-18 EDWARDS, John – 1833- 28 Mar. 1859, husband of S. A. EDWARDS.

C-18 , Johnnie O. -3 Dec. 1863 – son of John & S. A. EDWARDS.

D-18 , S. A., Mrs. – 1840 – 2 Jul. 1881, wife of John EDWARDS.

___ FAHENSTOCK, William – son of Jake & Maggie FAHENSTOCK

___ FRANKLIN, Samuel – husband of Sarah FRANKLIN; father of Mrs. Peter YEAGER.

___ , Sarah – wife of Samuel FRANKLIN; father <sic.> of Mrs. Peter YEAGER.

L-11 GOLDEN, Nathan – Co. C, 30 th Ill. Inf.

___ GRASS, Sallie – died 17 Aug. 1910, age 19 mo.

W-25 GRIFFITH, Cook – 22 Dec. 1861- 22 Sept. 1888

H-3 , Edgar C. – 1904-1905

V-25 , James –

S-25 , Josephine – 1853-1914, wife of Louis GRIFFITH.

___ , Louis – died 23 Sept. 1888.

T-25 ,Louis – 1848-1902, husband of Josephine GRIFITH.

___ HAYDEN, Thomas – 1824-19 Dec. 1889

___ HINKLE, Effie –

G-18 HOGARD, Dr. Austin B., M.D., - 4 Dec. 1793-24 Nov. 1862, born in Hanover Co., Virginia; husband of

Mary ALLEN KENNISON & Sally HARRIS HAMILTON; first pastor of Bois Brule Baptist

Church.

P-17 , Charles Y.

L-18 , Ellen Jane (BURGEE) – 17 Dec. 1834- 23 Sept. 1866, wife of Andrew Broadus HOGARD;

married 14 Sept. 1849, daughter of Joab Waters, Sr. & Elizabeth (BURNS)BURGEE.

J-18 , Mary – 31 May 1858 – 30 Oct. 1862, daughter of Andrew Broadus and Ellen Jane (BURGEE)

HOGARD.

F-18 , Thomas J. – 15 June 1810-5 Feb. 1859.

___ HOOK, Albert – died 1904

___ , John – died 1892

___ HORVEL, Mary – 1864 – Jan. 1884.

Q-16 INGLES, Mary – 3 Oct. 1805-23 Aug. 1873.

___ JOHNSON, Homer – died 1922, son of Walter & Mrs. Stella J. (McCOY) JOHNSON.

___ , May – died 1929, daughter of Walter & Mrs. Stella J. (McCOY) JOHNSON.

___ KEEN, M. M. – 1854- 18 Jan. 1887.

Q-19 KINNISON, Harrison B., - 13 Aug. 1830-12 Nov. 1873, husband of Mary A. KINNISON, grandfather of

Meredith LAKENAN.

I-18 , Mary A. – 17 Oct. 1843- 26 Feb. 1863 – she died at childbirth, grandmother of Meredith

LAKENAN.

___ KLOBE, Wm. Franklin, - 17 Feb. 1884-5 March 1884, son of John KLOBE.

___ LAYTON, Henry J.- 27 July 1851-9 August 1881.

I-16 , Henry J. – 15 July 1862-17 May 1863, son of F. & E. LAYTON.

___ MANSKER, Mr. – father of Christine (MANSKER) STALENS

G-10 MAYO, H. L. – 13 Apr. 1836-5 Oct. 1888.

___ , Ida May – 1884-29 Oct. 1885, daughter of H. L. MAYO.

J-16 MEREDITH, Daniel, - 7 Mar. 1811-3 Apr. 1875, great-grandfather of Meredith LAKENAN.

B-18 , James R. – 21 Apr. 1843-24 Apr.-1877, husband of Calvary MEREDITH.

K-16 , Margaret- 8 Feb. 1819-2 Feb. 1901, great-grandmother of Meredith LAKENAN.

J-8 MILES, Dennis – 5 Aug. 1860-11 Nov. 1893, husband of Martha MILES.

K-8 , Henry – 18 Dec. 1867-27 Apr. 1894.

L-8 , Joseph M. – 20 May 1890-22 Nov. 1898, son of Dennis and Martha MILES.

___ , Martha –

___ PHILLIPS, Austin Joseph, husband of Zoe BROWN.

___ , Elizabeth, wife of James PHILLIPS.

___ , Frank – son of Levi & Lyde PHILLIPS.

C-22 , James – 25 May 1787-June 1848.

V-11 , Joseph – 7 May 1848- 30 Oct. 1924, husband of Nancy Ellen PHILLIPS.

___ , Levi – husband of Lyde PHILLIPS.

W-11 , Louisa- 1 Nov. 1857-19 July 1924, wife of William T. PHILLIPS.

___ , Lyde, wife of Levi PHILLIPS.

C-11 , Nancy Ellen – 4 Mar. 1853-21 Jan. 1923, wife of Joseph PHILLIPS.

X-11 , William T. – 10 Nov. 1857 – 18 Dec. 1934, husband of Louisa PHILLIPS.

___ , Zoe (BROWN), wife of Austin Joseph PHILLIPS.

E-7 PICKENS, Mary L.- 15 Nov. 1891-21 Aug. 1892, daughter of J. M. & H. K. PICKENS.

___ PILLARS, Andrew “Bud”

X-25 PILLOES, Lucinda- 7 Feb. 1839-13 Apr. 1898, wife of Andrew PILLOES.

B-15 PRESTON, Achsah Eleanor (PHILLIPS) -7 May 1829-11 July l910, wife of James Andrew PRESTON.

___ , Albert, son of Andrew PRESTON.

___ , Mrs. Arti – died 11 July 1910, age 84 years.

___ , George, son of James Andrew & Achsah Elenor PHILLIPS.

A-15 , James Andrew – 11 Jan. 1822-19 Mar. 1895; church trustee.

___ RISLEY, Clyde Bell (F.) – 1875-19 Sept. 1883.

___ SANDERS, Henry – 14 Aug. 1869-19 Apr. 1891.

___ SCHAMIL, triplets – born and died 27 April 1884, three infant children of Martin SCHAMIL.

____ SCHMIDT, Peter – 1807-Mar. 1890, born in Bavaria, Germany.

T-20 SIMEONS, Bruno – 24 Nov. 1823-13 Jan. 1879, husband of Jerushae SIMOENS.

S-20 , Jerushae – 1 May 1820-11 Nov. 1878.

E-25 , Mary L. – 16 Jan. 1862-28 Feb. 1879.

____ STATLER, Reva, daughter of Dan and Ellen STATLER.

B-6 SUMPTER, Carter – 11 Apr. 1843-30 Dec. 1904, Company C, 136 Reg. Illinois, Volunteers (Calv)

Vet. 1861-1866)

D-6 , David- 17 Apr. 1880-24 July 1879 <sic.>.

___ , Mary – 17 July 1883-13 July 1883.

C-6 , Norman – 5 June 1873-28 Nov. 1904.

___ THAYER, William.

H-16 THORP, Lewis- 19 Mar. 1798-1 May 1859; church trustee.

M-18 VESSELS, Isaac – 3 Jan. 1863-8 Sept. 1863, son of John & Elizabeth VESSELS,

N-18 , Mary Lorena – 3 Feb. 1872-20 May 1874, daughter of John & Elizabeth VESSELS.

____ YEAGER, James, son of Peter YEAGER.

____ , Louis, son of Peter YEAGER.

Letter and number at name indicate location in cemetery. Those graves are marked with monuments. The other graves are unmarked, or tombstones have disappeared.

Transcribed by Ira and Patricia Bishop Obrist with permission of the Perry Co. Historical Society February 2003. Proofread by Lou Hudson Pellican.