The decision in 1837 brought about an inevitable decline in membership. Waning membership characterized the church into the early 1900's. The 1823 frame building fell into disrepair, was eventually dismantled, and removed by Frank Shackelford. Although there are theological differences, those buried in the Bethel Cemetery made up the moral and social fabric during the early settlement of the area. We make bad decisions when history is ignored or forgotten.
Spiritual values thrive when passed from one generation to another.
Baptist missions and evangelism become well defined in the historical context of the Bethel Church. The descendants of those who are buried in the cemetery are few in number or cannot be found. Many of the gravestones needed repairing and cleaning. A new fence and gate were required. A new historic marker on Highway 31 has been erected.