Page 10 - history-related-to-methodism-and-early-settlement-in-florida-(esther-bernice-howell-haworth)-1961

History Related to Methodism and Early Settlement in Florida (1961) Esther Bernice Howell Haworth

(1855-1868). At that time the County Commissioners formed the County School
Board.

"The Arthur Roberts family followed the tradtional early customs of "Morning
Devotion” and the large family Bible had an important place in the old fashion
Parlor.”

The Roberts farm was located about seven miles south of Lake City on the Fort
White road between Columbia City and Alligator Lake. It was known as the OLD
SPARKMAN PLACE.

"Early maps and records show that back in 1838 when the United States was in
the midst of its war against the Seminoles there was little south of St. Augustine and
west of Jacksonville except Indian trails and Forts.” Alligator (Lake City)is however
one of Florida’s oldest settlements. Established in the 1820’s.”

According to Sprague in a book on The Florida (Seminole) War, the Indians
showed their kindness by sparing the women to see their children slaughtered. Our
early settlers and Pioneer Methodists showed greath courage at this time.

The following is given at the bottom of an 1837 Muster Roll: “Lt. Roberts and a
party of the company in the field” (Also Capt. Beckman) were greatly distinguished
for their soldier like conduct. They were especially commended on their conduct
during the battle of Wahoo Swamp Nov. 21,1836. He was later promoted to Captain.

Captain Arthur Roberts joined "OLD BETHEL” in 1840; Married Rebecca
Bryant (who is said by a descendant of Rebecca’s that this family of early Bryants are
related to our present Governor). Rebecca died Dec. 29, 1859, and it was not until 1863
that the lonely Captain married again. This time to Ann Mary Lavinia Collins,
daughter of C. II. B. and Ann Mary Robarts Collins-

A Poem written by Capt. Roberts in tribute to: “To My Wife” (this is from the
"Keepsake Alubm” given to her by her cousin in 1859. There are also poems of tribute
addressed to “My Step Mother” by children of the first family in this book)

These lines are as follows:

“Can 1 forget thee? Oh, no, no,— While life itself remains, Thou
art a friend to me, I know, And worth of my strains!

Thus, while upon this Globe 1 stand, Thy kindness I will claim;
For when I grasp thy generous hand 1 know that thou art the
same.

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