Quakers settled in this area in the late 18th century. They belonged to Cane Creek, Deep River, and then Springfield as the nearest monthly meetings. Friends worshipped in the Bush Hill area – later named Archdale – by at least the 1880s. Archdale Friends petitioned Springfield Monthly Meeting and Deep River Quarterly Meeting and were granted official monthly meeting status, the first monthly meeting for business held July 30, 1924.
Archdale Friends has changed and evolved through the past century. While a few members connect across generations of Quakers, some have moved away and new friends/Friends have joined us. Sunday School classes and Bible studies evolve around the current demographics: more young adults and families some years, more preschoolers and youth other years. While some early 20th-century members focused on prohibition and public morals issues, early 21st-century members focus on feeding our neighbors who have insecure resources. Christian education continues as a theme through the years, including Vacation Bible School and the Archdale Friends preschool.
One thing that doesn’t change is that we strive to be followers of Jesus Christ. We come together to listen to his Spirit and shine that Light out into our community and the world.
