Scott County, Tennessee
FNB Chronicles

This page was created 20 May 2014

Laying cornerstone for new church:  Oct. 1926

[EDITORS NOTE - The following article first appeared in the October 15, 1926 edition of the Scott County News. It was later transcribed from the microfilm by Bruce Butler and reprinted in the Winter 1985 edition of the Scott County Historical Society Newsletter during the church's observation of its 100th anniversary].

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH PROGRAM
Rev. William E. Barton, DD
Lays Cornerstone At Robbins, Tennessee

The exercises connected with the laying of the Corner Stone of the Community Congregational Church at Robbins took place last Thursday. The first meeting was held in the School Auditorium at one o'clock presided over by Rev. F. P. Ensminger, State Superintendent. After the singing of Onward Christian Soldier by the School, the Rev. J .F. Lynch, pastor of the First M. E. Church of Oneida, led in prayer. Mr. Frank McIntyre represented the local Baptist Church and in a few well chosen words extended a hearty welcome to all visitors present on behalf of his church. Professor Robert Vance welcomed the delegation and especially Dr. B. E. Barton on behalf of the School. Supt. Ensiminger then introduced the distinguished guest and speaker of the day, Dr. William Barton of Foxboro, Mass., who delighted his audience with interesting reminisences. Dr. Barton told how he came and organized the first Church. Dr. Barton was gratified at the progress Robbins School has made in recent years and spoke of the marked intelligence so apparent in our young people.

The entire student body formed a procession, and with the faculty and friends marched to the site of the new Church building where the ceremony of laying the Corner Stone took place. The pastor of the Church, Rev. G. L. Day presided at this part of the service.

The following is a list of the contents placed in the copper box which is embedded in the corner stone: Holy Bible with the following inscription, "This Bible which is to be placed in the Corner Stone of the Church in Robbins, Tennessee, where my dear little wife and I had our first ministry 1885-1887, I gladly inscribe to the Glory of God: William E. Barton, October 7th, 1926." 2. Lists of officers and members of the Robbins Church, 3. List of officers and members of Sunday School, 4. Copy of Scott County News dated October 1st, 1926 containing an account of the organization and progress of the Church and a brief resume of the life of Dr. Barton, 5. Copy of the Congregationalist, and of the Christian Century containing two articles as follows: "In Memory of Mrs. Barton" and "The Footstep on the Stairs." 6. Certificate of Ordination of Rev. Mark N. Summer which was given him by Dr. Barton in 1892.

The box being placed in the stone, Dr. Barton then came to the platform and before taking the trowel from the hand of Mr. J. F. Hargrove, Chairman of the Building Committee, he presented two checks to Superintendent F. P. Ensiminger for the building fund, saying, "$500 from the boy who was born on the little hill there and $500 from the father of that boy." The first check was signed by Bruce Barton and the second by William E. Barton. Dr. Barton then accepted the trowel, proceeded to spread the mortar and the stone was lowered into place “in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost." Dr. Barton then gave a brief, but stirring address, and Rev. Mark N. Summer, veteran mountain preacher also gave a few remarks. The service closed with the benediction.

Dr. William E. Barton is a man of great culture and magnetic personality, a world traveler, lecturer, and writer of many notable words. Yet with all, meeting all old friends or descendents of former associates in Robbins and vicinity with such simple, kindly interest and such winsome graciousness, as to win every one to himself. The only regret was the shortness of his visit and it is earnestly hoped that Dr. Barton may return when the edifice is completed and dedicated to the Masters service.

Preceeding the ceremony a sumptuous dinner was served by the ladies of the Church to some forty visiting guests, [in] the present church building. The Rev. G. L. Day is very grateful to the ladies for their splendid cooperation, not only in this instant, but whenever called upon.

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