Fairview
Nestled in the northern reaches of Henry County, between the City of Stockbridge and DeKalb County, lies the community of Fairview. The nomenclature of this charming locale likely draws inspiration from the panoramic and "fair" views it offers of the surrounding areas. In the 1800s, Fairview was considered a rural expanse, with Stockbridge serving as the closest town nearly eight miles away – a significant journey for settlers attending to their business affairs.
This geographical isolation posed a particular challenge for the religious pioneers of the 1800s, especially those desiring to attend Concord Methodist Church in Stockbridge. The arduous eight-mile trek necessitated to partake in spiritual gatherings prompted a pivotal moment in Fairview's history. In 1860, a group of devoted individuals acquired land from John A. Callaway, establishing a worship space in the form of a brush arbor. They christened their newfound church "Bethel."
As the congregation steadily grew, so did the need for a more permanent place of worship. In 1870, a dedicated group constructed a building to accommodate the flourishing Bethel congregation. This marked the genesis of the Fairview community, evolving around the nucleus of the church. The heart of Fairview became a haven where spiritual growth intertwined with community development.