This historic congregation near Shingler was established in 1876. The earliest members were: J. A. Reid; Dave Newkirk; Dan Boyd; Charlie Walker; Millie Walker; Walter Terry; Jacob Lamar; and R. B. Wynn.
A modern sign at this church identifies it as New Miller’s Chapel and notes that the congregation was established in 1888. A cornerstone indicates that the church was built in 1922, likely as a wooden structure and later bricked in. Trustees listed on the cornerstone were: T. Lamar, Allen Burks, James Lockhart, Dan Mathis, Sam Graham, Bishop Lamar, Arthur Lowe, and R. M. Reeves.
Around 1840 Reverend William “Uncle Billy” Clements built a church about a mile from present-day Sumner. It served a dual purpose as a school. After Sumner was settled, the church was relocated to its present site and the present structure built with lumber given by Dan Garrett.
This beautiful church was constructed between 1916-1917. S. S. Kemp was the pastor at the time. J. J. DuPriest, C. T. Lumpkin, and W. D. Royal made up the Building Committee.
I’m grateful to Hoyt Dorminey for pointing out this old church during our recent visit to Doles. I’ve been to the community a number of times and have missed it every time.
Originally the Presbyterian Church, this also served as the library for many years.
