Castlewood in Russell County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Fort Gibson United Methodist Church
Founded 1786
Mark Whitaker
Preacher
| | Born ca 1760 - Died ca 1811 | |
Photographed by Devry Becker Jones (CC0), July 3, 2026
1. Fort Gibson United Methodist Church Marker
Fort Gibson was established in 1786 by Mark Whitaker, a circuit riding Methodist preacher. In 1787 the church thrived with 100 members. Bickley's mile served as the first meeting house. The original name is lost to time. The church is in the 4th location and 3rd name. Many descendants of founding families have loved and guided the church for over two centuries.
Mark Whitaker was admitted by Francis Asbury as an itinerant preacher in 1785. Mark served as pastor of the church form 1786 to 1789 while riding the Holston District. In 1791 Mark was made a presiding elder in charge of all seven districts in the South. Rev. James B. Finley said "Mark Whitaker was a strong man. He laid a good foundation for his successors".
Mark left a legacy of spiritual values that has served untold members and descendants in the service of God and our fellow man for these 220 years. Mark died near his beloeved castle's woods.
Erected 2006 by members and descendants.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Religion & Religious Structures. A significant historical year for this entry is 1786.
Location. 36° 53.406′ N,
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in Southwest Virginia. It is also in the American South, specifically in the Upper South, in Appalachia, and specifically in Southern Appalachia. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 9 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: Russells Fort (approx. one mile away); Veterans Memorial (approx. 2 miles away); Moores Fort (approx. 3½ miles away); Old Russell County Courthouse (approx. 4.1 miles away); Dortons Fort
Credits. This page was last revised on July 8, 2026. It was originally submitted on July 8, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 9 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 8, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
