In a report on religious activity in Brighton Township in the 1880 History of Livingston County, writer John Ellis notes the early beginnings of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in the area.  March 9, 1873 the Pleasant Valley Congregation was organized, meeting in the log one room Lyons Schoolhouse.  In spring, 1874, it was decided to build a church on the northeast corner of Pleasant Valley and Jacoby Roads.  By that fall the 48’ x 32’ structure was completed, reported to be able to seat 250, at a cost of $1,727.50, all of which was paid by subscription.  It wasn’t long before members, living in town, formed another society.  (A five-mile buggy ride to attend services was probably found to be too difficult.)

Born in county Down, Ireland, Robert McClements and wife, “Miss Cannon”, had six children.  John born 1823, William born 1826, Joseph born 1830, Samuel born 1833, Robert born 1837, Mathilda (or Anna) born ?.  All of whom were born in Ireland.

In 1855, John, Joseph and Samuel came to the United States.  Within a few years William followed.  Perhaps they joined the man who emigrated from Ireland following the potato blight in 1845-46.