First Christian Church
Robbins Road near Clinton Avenue
Mrs. Sarah Stirman and her family laid the foundation for organization of the First Christian Church in Athens through her work beginning in 1853. Organization of the congregation did not take place until 1887, at which time services were held once a month. The congregation lacked a meeting place in its early yearrs. However, in 1891, at an evangelistic meeting held at the court house where some 50 persons joined the church, J.R. Reierson donated a lot on which to erect a church building. The lot was located at the corner of West Corsicana and South Pinkerton, the site used by the church until 1940. A severe storm in May of 1902 destroyed the first building erected by the church, but by the following year, another building was ready for use. Growth of the membership of the church was such that by 1928 the building was enlarged and an educational unit was added. In 1940, due to an ever-increasing congregation, the church was relocated on a lot on South Palestine which was given to the church by E.B. LaRue. The new building, which was dedicted in 1941, served the congregation for nearly 20 years. A building program was begun by the church in 1956 to provide ample facilities for the increased membership and to provide more parking space. The site chosen for the new building was the corner of Robbins Road and Clinton Avenue. The building was completed and dedicated in 1961. Eight functional commitiees meet each month to work with the pastor and chairman of the board to insure that no phase of the church's responsibilities be neglected. The First Christian Church was organized to provide inspiration, Christian education, fellowship and concern for every age group. Pastor of the church is the Rev. Edwin Michael.
Source: Athens Weekly Review, September 1965.
Submitted by Peggy Trammell Allen, May 2004
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