Methodism in the Lower Peach Tree area dates to the early 1820s, shortly after Alabama gained statehood. Like many communities along the Alabama River, it was originally served by Methodist circuit riders who traveled on horseback to lead services in private homes or brush arbors.
The earliest church structure was a log building dating to the early 1820s, and an early congregation worshipped as Asbury Chapel, named for Methodist Bishop Francis Asbury, near what is now the Lower Peach Tree cemetery. By 1832, the preaching places at Lower Peach Tree were included in the Methodist Episcopal Church’s Mobile District circuits, and the church continued in circuit ministry until the mid-1840s.
A resident minister (Rev. Andrew J. Hill) was appointed to the Lower Peach Tree circuit in 1846, indicating a firmly established congregation by that date. In 1873, the congregation relocated to the present site when land was donated by the Northrup family, and a new sanctuary was completed around 1874, which remains the historic church building used today. It is a classic example of rural Alabama church architecture from the late 19th century, designed with a simple, dignified frame construction that was common for Methodist congregations of that era.
This church is perhaps best known for being one of the few structures to survive the catastrophic 1913 Lower Peach Tree Tornado. On March 21, 1913 (Good Friday), an F4 tornado “practically wiped out” the town, killing 27 people and destroying nearly 100 homes and businesses. The Methodist church remained standing, serving as a landmark of survival amidst the “kindling” that remained of the rest of the community.
Pictures that are provided were taken 8/24/2015.
This church is located beside Wilcox Co. Rd 1 near the intersection in Lower Peach Tree ( 31.841417,-87.546333 – Google Maps).