By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Turkey Branch UMC to celebrate 225 years
Placeholder Image
Two hundred twenty-five years of history will be celebrated on Sunday as one of the oldest Methodist churches in the area holds a special day of praise and worship.  
 
The Turkey Branch United Methodist Church was founded in 1785 by Gideon Mallette and was first called Turkey Branch Meetinghouse. The first pastor, Rev. Hope Hull, was one of the founding fathers of Methodism in Georgia.  
 
Turkey Branch hosted camp meeting in 1865 and 1866 after Sherman’s Army of the Tennessee burned the nearby camp ground. One of the original Sunday schools to take part, Turkey Branch participates in Effingham County’s annual Sunday School Convention.  
 
Many have graced the pulpit of this congregation.  This church has been dedicated to the service of God through good times and bad, war and peace. It has been the home of over two centuries of joyous and solemn occasions as well as sadness and funerals. 
 
The historic cemeteries of Turkey Branch and the Mallette family nearby each tell their stories in the words on the memorial markers where the forefathers of the church and their descendants are buried.  
 
The celebration begins with a worship service Sunday at 11 a.m. conducted by Bishop James R. King Jr. This will be followed by a basket lunch on the grounds with homemade lemonade. Please bring your lawn chairs. The afternoon will offer the sharing of the church history and a song service at 2:30 p.m., featuring local singers and special music.  
 
Rev. Madison Morgan and the congregation invite you to come and share their celebration northwest of Springfield just off Old Dixie Highway. 
For more information call 754-3824 or visit www.turkeybranch.org