Origin of the Franklin/Flat Top Primitive Baptist Church
Franklin/Flat Top Primitive Baptist Church was originally created as part of the Fisher’s River Primitive Baptist Association. Located in Beulah, North Carolina on Haystack Road, the church grounds are noticeably close to a historically significant site: The Edwards-Franklin House. The similarity in name is not coincidence. A famous figure, Meshack Franklin, inhabited the house and provided the funds, as well as participating himself, in starting the church.
On the front of the church, a plaque notes the date of establishment as 1858. This, however, contradicts popular belief. Information in multiple publications over the years states the date of origin to be in the early 1800s, during its founder’s lifetime (1772-1839). Records from the church could once be found from as early as 1824 when Elder P.B. Cockerham was pastor. As a notable figure in the original Association of Primitive Baptist Churches, his period of leadership was likely very near the beginning years of the church, if he was not indeed the first pastor. Elijah Ramey, T.J. Lawson, and W.H. Atkinson were also significant pastors who followed in Cockerham’s path.
Many of the church records, histories, and minutes have been destroyed or otherwise lost over time. It is fairly certain, however, that in June of 1858 there were approximately 35 members. Most of these members are buried in the accompanying cemetery, along with their descendants.
On the front of the church, a plaque notes the date of establishment as 1858. This, however, contradicts popular belief. Information in multiple publications over the years states the date of origin to be in the early 1800s, during its founder’s lifetime (1772-1839). Records from the church could once be found from as early as 1824 when Elder P.B. Cockerham was pastor. As a notable figure in the original Association of Primitive Baptist Churches, his period of leadership was likely very near the beginning years of the church, if he was not indeed the first pastor. Elijah Ramey, T.J. Lawson, and W.H. Atkinson were also significant pastors who followed in Cockerham’s path.
Many of the church records, histories, and minutes have been destroyed or otherwise lost over time. It is fairly certain, however, that in June of 1858 there were approximately 35 members. Most of these members are buried in the accompanying cemetery, along with their descendants.
The following Link Provides a Deeper History of Meshack Franklin.
For sources and more Information:
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