history of walton county churches and cemeteries

   This is the site of one of Florida’s oldest organized Presbyterian churches, which was the largest Presbyterian church in Florida until 1885. 

   On May 27, 1827, the Reverend Murdoch Murphy of the Alabama Synod presided, with Elder Donald McLean Sr., and 15 families. The log church served the community for 20 years until a new 50 x 100 ft. church with large inside galleries was built adjacent to the log church, which opened on November 26, 1848. 

    Reverend Robert Quarterman Baker, Civil War veteran from Georgia, served the church until his death in October 1923. The third and present church was erected, using foundational supports from the original log church. 

    The adjacent cemetery contains the remains of many original Walton County settlers, including two signers of Florida’s first Constitution. There are veterans of all wars dating from the Revolutionary War, as well as civic leaders, elected officials and ministers. In total, there are more than 3,000 graves in the old cemetery, some now unmarked, and many brought home from Alabama and across Northwest Florida.

   Walton County, Florida, has a rich history of churches dating back to the 1800s. The county has been home to various denominations, including Methodist, Baptist, Episcopal, and others. Many of these churches have played significant roles in the community, providing spiritual guidance, education, and support. 

 Walton County, Florida, is home to numerous historic cemeteries that reflect the area's cultural and social history. Many of these cemeteries date back to the 1800s and contain the final resting places of early settlers, prominent community members, and veterans. These cemeteries often serve as important historical resources, preserving the heritage of the region.