Photography by Randy Clegg
Rockwell Universalist
Barrow | Organized 1839
Rockwell Universalist Church is a true jewel among Georgia’s rural churches. Organized in 1839 in what was once the Mulberry community of Jackson County (now part of Barrow County), it is one of the oldest surviving Universalist congregations in the state. According to early accounts, “considering the character and free-thinking minds of those people, the seeds of Universalism and liberal thought sown by itinerant preachers found fertile ground, ultimately leading to the organization of the church.” The historical marker at the site notes that Rockwell is the second-oldest Universalist church in Georgia.
+ Continue readingThe congregation struggled during its earliest years, especially during the Civil War, but it was reorganized in 1867 by Dr. Andrews and has endured ever since. The first gatherings were held in a brush arbor, followed by services in the local schoolhouse across the road, located on the first floor of a two-story building whose second floor served as a Masonic Hall. The church building still standing today was constructed in 1881, built through volunteer labor and with donated materials from the community.
Originally named the First Universalist Church of Jackson County, the church became known as Mulberry Church when the new sanctuary was dedicated in 1881. In the 1920s, it was renamed Rockwell, in honor of the Rockwell School and Masonic Hall, where members had worshiped for many years before the sanctuary was built. That schoolhouse and lodge also played multiple civic roles—serving as a recruiting and training ground for Civil War soldiers, a justice court, and a voting precinct known as House’s District.
Among the church’s founding members was John G. House, a local Justice of the Peace and schoolmaster, described as a forward-thinking man who loved justice and practiced mercy toward his neighbors. John and his wife Harriet had four sons and three daughters. All four sons served in the Civil War, and tragically, two of them never returned. The House family (also spelled Howse) has deep roots in this part of the county. You’ll see their family cemetery featured in the accompanying photographs.
Throughout the years, many Universalist state conventions were held at Rockwell. According to church history, in preparation for one such gathering in 1895, the interior of the church was completed with a ceiling and interior details made from lumber donated by a church member.
Despite the spread of development and the construction of nearby highways, Rockwell retains its historic character. Thanks to the loving stewardship of its congregants, the church has been remarkably well preserved and continues to stand as a testament to the resilience of its founders and the enduring spirit of liberal faith in rural Georgia.
We are fortunate that this old treasure has been cared for and passed down for the benefit of present and future generations.