1812
Mr. John Carnahan came forward and was examined on experimental religion and his call to the ministry, which examinations were sustained, and having obtained a good report of his moral character, it is hereby directed that said Carnahan, who is now received as a candidate for the ministry, prepare a written discourse from John XIV, 6, to be delivered at our next Presbytery, or as soon as it is convenient for him to attend our Presbytery. It is also recommended that he exercise his gift in a prudent manner in promoting the work of God, and that he organize societies, so far as to enroll members, nominate elders, etc.
Ordered, that Mr. John Carnahan form a circuit on the Arkansaw, in the bounds of those settlements in which he lives, and report to Presbytery his success when he returns.
[Source: Minutes of Cumberland Presbytery, November 3-6, 1812]

1813
  Resolved, therefore, by this Cumberland Presbytery, that a part of the present Cumberland Presbytery shall be, and are hereby directed to constitute a Presbytery known by the name of the Elk Presbytery. The boundaries are as follows, to-wit: Beginning at the mouth of Duck river, thence a due north course to the top of the Tennessee ridge, thence eastwardly along the top of said ridge to Cumberland mountain, thence South to Tennessee river, thence easterly, southwardly, and westwardly to undefined boundaries; to be composed of the following members, to-wit: the Rev. Messrs.William McGee, Samuel King, James B. Porter, Robert Bell, and Robert Donnell; to meet at Mount Carmel meeting-house on the first Tuesday in August next. Mr. McGee (or in case of his absence, Mr. Bell) is hereby directed to open Presbytery by a sermon. The following persons shall be considered under the direction of said Presbytery (to-wit, Elk Presbytery): John Carnahan, James Stewart, and Elisha Price, when constituted.
[Source: Minutes of Cumberland Presbytery, April 6, 1813]