Washington in Wilkes County, Georgia — The American South (South Atlantic)

First Presbyterian Ordination in Georgia

Photographed By David Seibert, November 14, 2009

1. First Presbyterian Ordination in Georgia Marker

Inscription. In the shade of a giant poplar tree which stood 200 feet East of this spot, on the 22nd of July, 1790, the Rev. John Springer was ordained to the Presbyterian ministry and installed Pastor of Smyrna, Providence and Washington churches. This was the first Presbyterian ordination held in Georgia. A Commission from the Presbytery of South Carolina conducted the service, with the Rev. Robert Hall preaching the ordination sermon and the Rev. Francis Cummins presiding and giving the charge.

The tree, always afterward known as The Presbyterian Poplar, stood for more than 150 years after the ordination.

Erected 1958 by Georgia Historical Commission. (Marker Number 157-18.)

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Churches & Religion. In addition, it is included in the Georgia Historical Society series list. A significant historical date for this entry is July 22, 1790.

Location. 33° 44.35′ N, 82° 43.933′ W. Marker is in Washington, Georgia, in Wilkes County. Marker is on Poplar Drive (Georgia Route 17) 0.1 miles north of Alexander Drive, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Washington GA 30673, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Site of Presbyterian Poplar (here, next to this marker); Gilbert-Alexander House

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(approx. 0.2 miles away); Wisteria Hall (approx. 0.2 miles away); Tarver-Maynard House (approx. 0.2 miles away); Historic Dugas Home (approx. 0.2 miles away); K.A. Wilheit House (approx. 0.2 miles away); Dyson House (approx. 0.2 miles away); Sims-Beggs House (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Washington.

Photographed By David Seibert, November 14, 2009

2. First Presbyterian Ordination in Georgia Marker

Photographed By David Seibert, November 14, 2009

3. First Presbyterian Ordination in Georgia Marker

The marker and a companion stone monument alongside Poplar Drive

Credits. This page was last revised on February 1, 2020. It was originally submitted on December 19, 2009, by David Seibert of Sandy Springs, Georgia. This page has been viewed 756 times since then and 7 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on December 19, 2009, by David Seibert of Sandy Springs, Georgia. • Craig Swain was the editor who published this page.