AKA: 

Number of Burials (approximate):  700

Dates of Activity:  1854 - present

Documentation/Publication: 

CCGS, The Cemeteries of Lamar and Porter Townships (2003)

Directions/GPS: 

From the Lamar Exit of US I-80, turn east on PA Route 64.  If exiting from the westbound lanes, turn right.  If exiting from the eastbound lanes, turn left.  Travel 0.5 mile.  Mount Bethel Church and Cemetery will be on your left.

GPS = N41 02.359 W77 30.853

Landowner / Caretaker:

Mount Bethel United Church of Christ

Mill Hall, PA 17751

Condition/Needs: 

Excellent

History:

Persons interested in the German Reformed faith in Nittany Valley had no nearby church at which to worship in early days.  It was resolved to establish a congregation in Porter Township, and on 15 October 1853 a meeting was held at the schoolhouse to discuss the erection of a church building.  The plans progressed and in January 1854, the church was contracted to Archibald Allisonor $1660.00.  The land for the church was purchased from Mr. and Mrs. John Best– ¾ acre for $100.00.  The Mount Bethel German Reformed congregation officially formed on 26 March 1854.  The first elders were Valentine Meyerand Daniel Royer;the first deacons were Jacob Vonneida and William Meyer.

Mount Bethel Cemetery was laid out in March 1855 in the land behind the church by the trustees.  It has continued as an active cemetery to this day, and is well maintained.  Today, through denominational mergers, the congregation is known as Mount Bethel United Church of Christ.