Timeline
Timeline Of First United Presbyterian Church
First United Presbyterian Church still stands today as an endearing reminder of the fortitude and determination of a people only a few years removed from slavery and their descendants who keep the church alive.
New Beginnings
First United Presbyterian
J.L. Cook founded First United Presbyterian Church
1889
321 N. Jackson Street in Athens, TN
Growth
Athens Academy Founded
First Presbyterian United Presbyterian sponsored this school
1894
Located near where Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home is today
Transistions
Athens Academy Burns Down
A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary regelialia. It is a paradise
1927
Transitions
Rev. J.L. Cook dies
1923
New School
Cook High School Founded
Named in honor of Rev. J.L. Cook
1926
First Principal
W.E. Nash Named Principal
W.E. Nash, an elder of First United Presbyterian for more than 65 years was the first principal of Cook High School from 1926 to 1953.
1926
Succession
E. Harper Johnson Succeeds W.E. Nash
E. Harper Johnson succeeded W.E. Nash in 1953 and served as principal until the school closed in 1966.
1953
The End of An Era
Cook High School Closed
Integration signaled the end of Cook High School. The school closed its doors in 1966 after 40 years.
1966
A New Day
First United Presbyterian Church Is Placed On The National Historic Register
The church has been a hub for Black spiritual life and culture in Athens, TN for more than 135 years.
