“Keep going on, don’t give up.” That’s what the walls of Lawrence Methodist Episcopal Church would tell you. Lawrence Methodist Episcopal Church has a rich history. It has seen crises, trials and tribulations. But the people never gave up hope.
Lawrence Methodist Episcopal Church began with a prayer meeting. It was called by the Lawrence girls in the 1850s. This led to the organization of the Lawrence Chapel Church. It was the first Methodist Church in the community. It was known as the Methodist Episcopal Church North. Some ladies from the North helped organize the church. Perhaps they were missionaries. Mr. Willis Lawrence donated the land. The first building was a small one-room log building. It served as both a church and a schoolhouse.
There were no windows and only one door. Boards filled the cracks between the logs. Benches of split logs served as seats. The exact time this building was built is unknown. But it was prior to the Civil War.
Lawrence Methodist Episcopal Church had many notable members. Willis and Sarah Lawrence were members. Steven and Eliza Box were also members. Darling and Rebecca Gardner were members too. Wesley and Cathryn Puckett attended. Squire Isaac and Lucy Oaks were members as well. Doc and Alabama Butler were also involved. A. E. and Mary Lawrence were members. William and Malinda Martin attended. William Cosby and his wife were members. John and Amanda Gardner were also members. Irene Puckett and Lucinda Lawrence were involved.
Captain A. Donaldson was an influential member. He served in General Joe Wheeler’s Cavalry. He was active in the church and the school. He was a teacher and established the first post office. It was known as the Etha Post Office. At his death in 1900 his daughter operated the post office for about fifteen years. Captain’s son Robert Donaldson was the first person buried in the Lawrence Chapel Cemetery. It is still maintained.
The Lawrence Methodist Episcopal Church is a testament to faith. It is a symbol of community. Its walls have witnessed history. They have offered hope. They have encouraged perseverance. Today the church stands as a reminder. It reminds us to keep going. It reminds us to never give up.