Today at Sunday services, I was handed a rather large envelope and told that it held some items that I may be interested in. After opening it, I discovered that it was indeed filled with some historical treasure, all pertaining to the history of the Fredericksburg Presbyterian Church.

What made this package exceptionally special was who the items had belonged to. For those who are unfamiliar with the name Elizabeth Morrison, she is one of Spotsylvania County’s most prized citizens. Mrs. Morrison had a beautiful farm called “Hazelwild,” which is still in operation and now hosts the Elizabeth Morrison Equestrian Center. She was also a Christian woman, who in 1984, allowed the charter members of my congregation from Spotsylvania Presbyterian Church to hold worship services in her barn, affectionately referred to as the “Cow Palace.” Her legacy still remains today and she has been celebrated for both her graciousness and generosity.

Apparently some members of my church were recently cleaning out some of her things and came upon these wonderful pieces of history that will definitely find their way into some future project of mine. The package included a priceless Church Directory from 1913, a Yearbook from the 1920’s (Note: my church’s yearly financial budget for 2008 is just over $700,000. operating expenses in the ‘20’s are listed at $4000.), 2 Photo Directories (from the 50’s and 60’s), and a personalized copy of “History of the Presbyterian Church of Fredericksburg, VA 1808-1976” by Edward Alvery Jr. I had borrowed a copy of this title (which was in limited circulation and is rare) when writing “Houses of the Holy,” but to now be the custodian of Mrs. Morrison’s copy is a privilege indeed. I will cherish all of these materials and they will be a welcome addition to my collection.

The inscription reads:

To Elizabeth Morrison,

With deep appreciation for your generosity, patience and forbearance, while sharing Hazelwild in the development of the Spotsylvania Presbyterian Church.

The organizing ministers,
Rev. H. Carson Rhyne, Jr.
Rev. Dr. Clyde Carter
Christmas, 1985