| Creator |
Riggston-Merritt |
| Object ID |
V-130B |
| Object Name |
Book, Church Membership |
| Dates of Accumulation |
1949-1970 |
| Abstract |
Membership record updated in 1973, lists baptisms (1961-2001) marriages (1981-1982) with a chronological-alphabetical list of members. |
| Admin/Biog History |
On March 8, 1873 a meeting was held at the residence of E. L. Gillham Short. It was resolved to organize 2 societies from the Benson Society - Riggston and Merritt. The Riggston Society stayed in the Benson Church, which was later moved to Riggston. The Merritt society met in the town depot (the name of the town was originally Mary Ann but changed to Merritt after the railroad official) until a church was built in 1874, and dedicated in 1875. In 1970 Merritt joined with Riggston UMC and Merritt was closed.
The Riggston church began as Benson Chapel in 1832, one mile west of Merritt (then called Mary Ann). This church was a brick building The chapel was moved to Riggston and renamed Riggston. Additions were made to this building during the 20th century with the help of the Ladies Aid. Due to declining membership, this church closed in Apr 2003 and the building razed.
|
| Collection |
IGRC Closed Church |
| Level of description |
Item |
| Recfrom |
Riggston-Merritt |
| Search Terms |
Scott County/Morgan County/Jacksonville/Merritt/Riggston/Jacksonville District/La Moine River District/Benson Chapel/Gillham Cemetery/ |
| Title |
Membership Record |
|
