Buckingham Churches: Three Methodist Chapels
In 1854, Thomas Baldwin’s Gazetteer of the United States counted nineteen active churches in Buckingham County. Fifteen likely candidates have been identified in previous posts at Slate River Ramblings. The three Methodist Chapels identified below, all with active congregations in 1853, may be numbers sixteen, seventeen, and eighteen.
First is Jones Methodist Chapel, location currently unknown. In 1853, the Class Leader was William B. Jones. At that time, there were only ten additional members in the Class at Jones Chapel.
Second is Lebanon Methodist Chapel, location also unknown, though the surnames in the congregation indicate it was likely in northeastern Buckingham County. In 1853, the Class Leader was M.L. Ayres and fellow members included Moseleys, Bransfords, Maxeys, Agees, Babers, Robertsons, and Bagbys.
Third is Stony Point Methodist Chapel. Elijah Hanes, founder of Humanity Hall Academy, helped establish this chapel located about a mile northeast of Humanity Hall. In 1853, Hanes served as both Class Leader and Steward. His wife, Judith, and his children, including Garland B. and James C. Hanes, joined him in worship there.
In 1859, Hanes Chapel, replaced Stony Point. Erected in Elijah G. Hanes’ honor, it was constructed about a half mile east of the Academy. Some members of Lebanon transferred to Hanes Chapel, indicating close proximity of the two locations.
To be continued . . . .
slate river ramblings . . . . 
Is there an available listing – anywhere – of members of this chapel.
There is a possibility Wm B. Jones may be of the Jones family being researched
Every little breakthrough researching in Buckingham is a minor miracle.
Louise, My information came from records available on microfilm at the Library of Virginia. The title is: “Methodist Episcopal Church, South. Virginia Conference. Lynchburg District. Buckingham Circuit (Buckingham County, Va.), Record book, 1852-1881.” Joanne
He’s a cute guy!