Kanawha Valley Church

(1922-30?)

The Gospel Messenger July 8, 1922 page 428

Kanawha Valley Church

  In compliance with a call from the members of the Kanawha Valley of West Virginia, the District Ministerial Board of the First District of Virginia sent it Secretary to assist in organizing them into a separate church. They had formerly belonged to the Chestnut Grove Church in Fayette County, W. Va. by the consent of this church they were organized July 17 at Beards Fork, and adopted the name, Kanawha Valley church.

  This territory embraces a part of Fayette and all of Kanawha County. Eight-two members are said to live in that section, but they are very much scattered. As about thirty members are living at Beards Fork coal camp, this was selected as a suitable place to effect the organization.  The only church building in the District owned by the Church of the Brethren is at Charleston.

  As there was no resident elder in this territory, the Board, as an advisory elder, until other plains can be carried out.  Bro. J. M. Crouse, who has been preaching for these people for a number of years at Beards Fork and has don some good work. Brethren B. F. Black and Jas. Black were elected and installed into the deacons’ office. Samuel Mink was elected clerk; Robert Miller “Messenger” correspondent.  All these last mentioned are located at Beards Fork, W. Va. Bro. J. M. Crouse was chosen delegate to District Meeting.

  Thus another congregation of the Church of the Brethren has been place on the map, and an open door is set before them. They will have plenty of obstacles to surmount, however, to develop their strength.     Roanoke, VA   C. D. Hylton