Thank you, Byron Anthony Wade, for sharing this short video of our festivities last Sunday as we joined together with Walnut Presbyterian Church to celebrate 125 years of service and ministry here in Madison county.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nhm9pjf_4PQ
Marshall Presbyterian Church at 125 years
When
the railroad first rumbled into Madison County in the late 1800s, it brought commerce,
tourism, and evangelism to remote corners of Western North Carolina.
On
November 12, 1898, a new congregation was chartered in Marshall as Couper
Memorial Presbyterian Church. The founding
members quickly made plans to build on a rise overlooking the old Catawba Trail
(a.k.a. the Drovers’ Road), the rails, and the French Broad River. Soon their sanctuary stood on the site, and a
long record of Christian outreach began.
Early
activities in the wider community included establishing Marshall Academy on
Hill Street, the first public school in Marshall. The congregation also opened a recreation
center on Main Street to provide an activities space for local youth. A free, public library was established in the
old Couper Memorial Church in June, 1901.
Evangelism
in Madison County included coordinating with other Presbyterian communities at
Walnut and Hot Springs, as well as a school, chapel, and hospital at White
Rock.
In
1950 the Marshall church’s current brick structure emerged from the metamorphic
escarpment at 165 South Main Street, under the new name Marshall Presbyterian
Church. Its distinctive front staircases,
portico, bell tower, and octagonal spire became landmarks. And its community outreach expanded.
Through
the decades, this congregation’s work has evolved to include its current
support of Scouting, Neighbors in Need, addiction recovery groups, Quaker
Circle, artistic and cultural initiatives, and other services. Its annual Community-wide Christmas Eve
Service inspires locals and seasonal visitors alike.
Marshall
Presbyterian’s mission statement echoes its sense of calling: “Broadly, deeply,
joyfully sharing the good news of Christ with Marshall and Madison County for
125 years.”
On
Sunday, November 12, 2023, Marshall Presbyterian Church celebrates its 125th
anniversary, with a special worship service at 11 a.m., and covered-dish
fellowship to follow.
