A BRIEF HISTORY of Valley Church of the Evangelical Association
Valley Church of the Evangelical Association
VALLEY CHURCH OF THE EVANGELICAL ASSOCIATON, is probably the oldest in thetownship. It was organized in 1834 or 1835, at the Weaver school house by Reverend SolomonAltamouse. The first leader was Samuel Weaver.
the first members were:
Joseph and Sally Weaver
Andrew and Catherine Weaver
Thomas Weaver
Samuel Weaver
The Starr, Bushey, and Mitchell families united with the organization soon afterward. The first church edifacewas built about 1840 on ground given by Andrew Weaver. Many of the early members are buriedat this place. The second church building was erected in 1865. David Weaver donated the groundupon which it stood. This was removed and replaced by the present frame structure. Reverend J.Esch is the present pastor.
Source: History of Venango County Pennsylvania, It's Past and Present
Note: In 1840 a log church building was constructed on the southern side of the cemetery on land donated by Andrew Weaver. It was commonly called "The Log Church"
Note: In 1865 a second building was erected about one-half mile south on land donated by David Weaver. This building was referred to as "The Little Red Congregational Church".
Note: In 1889 a third building replaced the second one at the same location (the intersection of T381 and T377) and became known as "Valley Church".
Note: The congregation has now (1996) gone elsewhere and the building is boarded up. it was used for a period of time as a Township Building.
Note: Valley Cemetery is well maintained and is being used for Burials. (1996)
Source: Venango County Pennsylvania, Cemetery Records and Early Church Histories