The History of Shiloh United Methodist Church

The following is an excerpt form the book "Pioneer History of Forsyth Couty 1832-1860 Vol 1 by Don L Shadburn

Shiloh Church was established in 1842 or 1843 with eight charter members. One Acre of land had been donated by Guilford Jones, one of the early settlers, and a hewn log house built southwest of where the present building stands. Early Church members were Joseph S. Bell, wife Rachel; Beverly Allen, wife Sarah; Samuel Brown, wife Lydia; Ezekiel harris, wife Betsy; Guilford Jones, wife Lavinia; Alfred Jones, wife Irene; Seaborn Jones, Wife Amanda; and Thomas Huggins and wife.

The cemetery property, located about a half-mile form the church on Mars Hill Road, was donated by L. Hudelson.

Seats in the back of the new church building were commonly reserved for slaves, many of whom were regular attendants.

A Sunday School was established in 1844 and continued until today. Prayer meetings and class meetings were held by the members, usually at the end of Sunday School meetings.

Shiloh was on the Marietta Circuit for many years. Frequently church services were held on a week day during a part of the year when a pastor was unable to attend on Sunday. Members were often obliged to quit their farm work and attend services in the middle of the week. Shiloh was put on the Alpharetta Charge a number of years ago.

In 1848, when William J. Cotter was pastor, Shiloh was a leading church on the circuit. A revival was held that year by Rev. Mr. Cotter, which resulted in many uniting with the church.

The present church was built in 1866 or 1867. It was dedicated in 1868 by George Yarbrough, Presiding Elder, J.R. Gaines, Pastor, and J Gresham, Supply Pastor.