Goodwill Presbyterian Church, U.S.A.
(Front text)
Founded in 1867 by 100 black members of
Salem, Black River, Presbyterian Church (1759)
desiring seperation. Dismissal granted, thus
becoming the first black church in Sumter
County. The congregation began meeting in
Goodwill School, established by the northern
Presbyterian Church thru Freedmen's Board.
Rev. Matthew R. Miller (1867- 1880), a white
minister, first pastor. Hamilton G. Witherspoon,
in 1868, gave 2 acres for a church site. In 1890,
3.74 acres were bought from G.W. and A.M.
McBride for a school site.
(Reverse text)
Dr. Irby D. Davis, was the first
black minister, 1894 - 1924
followed by:
Dr. Warren J. Nelson, 1925 - 1960,
Dr. E. McKay Miller, 1961 - 1969,
Dr. Franklin D. Colclough, 1972 - 1988.
Dr. John B. Quick. 1989 - , interm supply pastor.
The dedication of leaders and members of this
pioneer church inspires enlarging services in
religious, educational and civic activities at
home and abroad.
Marker is on Brick Church Road (State Road 527) near Goodwill Church Road, on the right when traveling north.
Courtesy hmdb.org
