Dear List, This is to invite all descendants of the Pruett, Hook, Holbrook, Westbrook, Day, Merriman, Wilson, Leverett, Cobb, Johnston, Walker or any other families associated with Pleasant Hill, Darter Chapel, Milton Chapel or otherwise known as Birmingham United Methodist Church to the ground breaking service on July 18th of a new Sanctuary. This church began in 1838 on Taylor Road in what was then Cherokee County on land donated by the Hook family. The church moved to the present location near the intersection of what is now known as Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road in 1870 on land donated by PJ Wilson. The location is 6 miles north of the antiques stores in Crabapple near Alpharetta. This church was part of what was at times a nine church circuit Methodist Church. In the mid 1800s this was part of the Dahlonega circuit and encompassed many miles. Since church was usually only held once a month at any given church, many members of other church denominations worshiped together as often as possible where services were held. Other churches in the area also with long histories are: Boiling Springs Primitive Baptist, Crabapple Baptist, Liberty Grove Baptist (which was at one time Methodist) and Union Hill United Methodist. If your ancestor was a member of one of those churches, chances are he also worshiped at Birmingham at some time or another. The 62 acres of land is beautiful and probably looks much as it did in the 1800s. We will be keeping it as undisturbed as possible. This will not be a typical church groundbreaking. It will be a true celebration and an historic occassion. We will have a barbeque meal and entertainment by the Swingin' Medalions. All are invited, but we especially want to extend an invitation to any descendants of anyone associated with the Church. If you know of anyone, please contact me. I am compiling a history of the Birmingham Community and want any and all information, especially photographs. Thanks and have a safe and wonderful weekend! Best wishes and thank you to all of you veterans! Carole Johnson Historian, Birmingham United Methodist Church