Allen County, Ohio - Chapter 14: The Chvrches and Ministers of Lima, 1906

Chapter 14: The Chvrches and Ministers of Lima

In the early days of the church in Ohio, almost all of the preaching was done by missionaries and circuit riders. These two classes included many odd characters and numberless are the good stories told of them, and though a great many of these itinerant preachers were "called" for no obvious reason except their great earnestness, which supplied to a degree the education and address which many of them lacked, yet it cannot be denied that many were possessed of learning and wisdom and were men of real worth and greatness.

Churches Of Lima Presbyterian

Market Street Presbyterian Church. - The first Presbyterian Church of Lima was organized August i, 1833, by Rev. Thomas Clark and Rev. James Cunningham, Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Beatty, Mr. and Mrs. John Ward, Mr. and Mrs. John Jameson and Crain Valentine. John Jameson and Alexander Beatty were chosen elders.

a frame building was erected at the corner of Elizabeth and Spring streets, which is now known as the A. M. E. Church. In February, 1:855, J3 members withdrew from the church and a second Presbyterian Church called the "New School" was organized by a committee of the Dayton Presbytery. They built a small chapel on West street.

Under Rev. T. P. Johnston, by action of the Findlay Presbytery, a third Presbyterian society was organized, separating from the First Church and taking the name of Central Presbyterian Church. It consisted of 54 members. They built a brick church on Main street north of High.

In 1869 the "New School" church united with the First Church and the name "Union Presbyterian" was adopted. Parts of the former eldership of each church were chosen to constitute the new session. On September 4, 1872, the Central Church joined the Union Presbyterian, making the Presbyterians of Lima again one body under the name of Lima Presbyterian Church. The present house of worship on the corner of Market and West streets was erected about 1880. The pastors since the first organization have been : George

Main Street Presbyterian Church. - This church was organized by direction of the Lima Presbytery, June 12, 1875, by a committee composed of Rev. Thomas Elcock, Rev. J. B. Strain and Elder John Dobbins, with 24 members, of whom Thomas W. Dobbins, Mrs. Nancy Hover, Mrs. Eliza Williams, Mrs. Ida Breese and Mrs. Alma Hover-Ford are still on the congregation roll. The ruling elders were: J. W. Waters, James Harper and John Cunningham. The trustees were: J. A.

In the summer of 1878 a house of worship was built on Pearl street east of the D. & M. Railroad. Rev. Z. B. Campbell was pastor and at this time a Sabbath-school was organized. The second location was in Irwin's storeroom at the southwest corner of Main and Vine streets to which place they moved in the spring of 1883. The present church edifice was dedicated on January 27, 1884. The following pastors have served : A. T.

At a congregational meeting, January 28, 1904, the trustees were authorized to purchase the property at the corner of Elizabeth and Kibby streets with a view of erecting a new church edifice. At the same meeting the trustees were authorized to sell the old manse property and proceed to erect a new parsonage on the north end of the new lot. This was completed during the past year, being ready for occupancy April I, 1905. It is a modern structure of eight rooms built of pressed brick veneer. The building committee was composed of A. Mullen, Cyrus Hover, J. B. Young. Ira

Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church. - The first Methodist Episcopal class in Lima was organized in October, 1833, by John Alexander and James W. Finley, missionaries of the St. Marys mission. Rev. Jesse Pryor came from St. Marys to conduct the first services, which were held in the old Court House. Mr. Pryor is also recorded as performing the first marriage ceremony in Lima, between James Saxon and Miss Jones, a sister-in-law of John Mark. About 1837 a Methodist frame church was built at the rear of the lot on the southwest corner of Union and Market streets. In 1852 a larger building was erected on the front of the lot and was used as a place of worship till 1871, when the present brick edifice was erected on the corner of ^Market and Elizabeth streets. This building with its appurtenances cost $50,000, and is of the Gothic style of architecture.

Rev. William Raper, presiding elder, with Revs. James Finley and John Alexander held the first quarterly conference. The church was dedicated March 12, 1876, by Bishop Foster. These pastors have since served : Revs. A. Harmount, S. K. Hard, S. Moore, J. M. Holmes, J. K. Wykes, S. H. Alderman, J. M. Moore, W. Winters, O. Kennedy, I. R. Henderson, L. C. Webster, E. A. Berry, Dr. Isaac Newton, Dr. P. E. Donaldson, J. Francis Davis, Richard Wallace, Fish, Thaddeus L. Wiltsee, Bethards, Mills, Waters, Whitlock, Figley and Joseph M. Avann.

On the Kenton road east of Lima were held the yearly camp-meetings of the Methodist church. In the Ada Record of April 19, 1899, Joseph Dobbins, a pioneer of Allen County, gave a vivid description of the campmeetings held here as early as 1838. "On three sides of the square." he says, "were placed the log cabins of the campers and on the fourth side was the preacher's cabin or tent as it was called. Within the enclosure thus formed were the seats for the audience, the undergrowth being cleared off, leaving the saplings, which furnished a dense shade. Camp-meetings were usually held in July or August and in pioneer days the camp-meeting was one of the great events of the year, many coming from a -great distance. Aside from its religious features, it afforded an opportunity for those living widely separated to meet and social intercourse; candidates for office sometimes took advantage of these meetings to do some electioneering and in a quiet way 'urge their remarkable fitness for the office to which they hoped to be elected. Some of the ministers who attended were giants both physically and intellectually.

"Sunday was the great day for the meeting. In the early morning people began to assemble from all directions on foot, on horseback, in all sorts of vehicles and carriages and long before the meeting the woods around the camp-grounds were alive with people, horses and vehicles. As night came on, the campground presented an eixtremely interesting and picturesque appearance, with the camp-fires blazing in front of the cabins. While some were engaged in cooking their evening meals, others were holding impromptu prayer meetings. Not infrequently might be seen, in shadowy relief, youthful lovers conversing in low, suppressed tones, evidently not on the subjects that concerned their spiritual welfare. A few shrill blasts from a tin horn announce the hour of meeting, the scattering groups assemble on the seats in front of the preacher's tent, some one starts a familiar hymn which all join in singing, and the evening service begins, which often lasts far into the night.

"One of the most attractive features of these meetings to me," Mr. Dobbins continues, '"was the singing, which I very often enjoyed. I remember one of the favorite hymns they sung was the 'Turtle Dove.' I admired it so much that I committed it to memory, but have forgotten all but the first verse :

"There was something sublime and beautiful in the music of that sweet, old hymn, swelling from the lips of the vast congregation, so full of soothing melody, as it rose soft and clear, floating upward and dying away amid the sighing of the summer wind in the surrounding forest."

Methodist

Grace Methodist Episcopal Church. - On Christmas Eve, 1879, was held the first prayer meeting of the Methodists in South Lima at the residence of Joseph Ballard. Those present were Mr. and Mrs. Ballard and Timothy Shroyer. On the 6th of March, 1880, at the second quarterly meeting of the Shawnee circuit held at Allentown, Ohio, the Methodist Church of South Lima was organized. Addison Berry was presiding elder and W. G. Littell was pastor of the Shawnee circuit. J. Ballard, Simon Halm, W. P. Witherill, R. H. Snodgrass, Jerome Shockey, George Busick and Wesley Ritenour were the first trustees of the organization.

The services at the first were held at the residence of the pastor where the St. John's road intersects Main street. In the fall of 1880, Rev. Maltbie was pastor and during his ministration the lot at the corner of Elizabeth and Kibby streets was purchased and the first church building was commenced. This building, still standing on West Kibby street, is owned by John Boysell.

The next pastor, Rev. Joseph Webber, came in the fall of 1881 and was followed in 1882 by Rev. J. L. Albritton. The church was finished during his ministry and was dedicated in November, 1881, by Rev. Harvey Wilson.

In 1883 present church edifice on the corner of Elizabeth and Kibby streets was finished and dedicated August 3rd by Rev. Leroy Belt. The following pastors have since served : Revs. J. H. Crooks, R. W. Schultz,

Epworth Methodist Episcopal Church. - At a quarterly conference held in the autumn of 1894, at Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church in Lima, E. Charity, Dr. T. H. Foltz and H. Parham were appointed a committee to find a church site, raise money and proceed to erect a church building in East Lima. C. McCurry was later added to the committee and they proceeded to purchase a lot and let the contract for the erection of a frame building. This building was dedicated July 7, 1895, by Rev. D. Moore, editor of the Western Christian Advocate, now one of the bishops of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

The class was organized with 51 members by the first pastor, Rev. J. F. Olive, and at the close of the year the class showed a healthy growth, an Epworth and a Junior League being organized in the meantime.

In September, 1895, Rev. E. T. Daily was appointed to serve the people of . Epworth, but his throat becoming affected he was compelled to rest from the ministry for a time and Rev. B. F. McCoy came to fill out the year. In October, 1896, Rev. F. A. Zimmerman was pastor and was followed in October, 1897, by Rev. D. R. Cook. Two years later Rev. George Wood Anderson was appointed to the Epworth charge. Pie labored most earnestly for the upbuilding of the church. In the early part of his pastorate the church building was destroyed by fire, which caused discouragement, but not loss of hope. Renewed courage came, and they went from tomb-stone shop to Opera House for services, while a new building was in course of erection. The membership grew and the church gained prestige in the city.

In August, 1902, the present beautiful church building, costing $17,000, was dedicated by Rev. L. A. Belt, D. D., president of the Ohio Normal University, of Ada, Ohio. After four years of zealous work, increasing the membership to more than 300, Mr. Anderson was transferred to a New York conference and stationed at Troy, New York.

Rev. C. C. Kennedy was his worthy successor, and labored for a year most faithfully to collect subscriptions and reduce the church debt. His success was considerable.

Rev. B. F. Reading was the next pastor, and with good audiences, a good Sundayschool, a growing Epworth League and a splendid Junior League, the congregation seems hopeful for the future. Her people are pleasant, devoted, faithful and sacrificing and when the church debt is paid, Epworth will be one of the most pleasant and desirable charges in the Central Ohio Conference.

St. Paul's African Methodist Episcopal Church. - This church was organized in 1862 by Rev. Grafton Graham, at the residence of James Robinson. There were only four members - James Robinson, Catherine Robinson, Patrick Howard and Rebecca Howard, none of whom is living. Rev. H. J. Andrews was the first pastor. They held their meetings for about a year in private houses and then purchased the old schoolhouse which they occupied until 1875. At this time through the efforts of Rev. Reuben Clark, the old Presbyterian Church, located at the corner of Spring and Elizabeth streets, was bought from the First Presbyterian Society for $1,600 and this is their present place of worship. The church is in a flourishing condition, with a membership of 130, a splendid Sunday-school, and a church property free from debt. Rev. Thomas Alfton is the pastor.

Baptist

and Mrs. William Chenoweth, Mr. and Mrs. James Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Hawthorn, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Lippincott, Mr. and Mrs. John Lippincott, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel B. Lippincott, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Homan, Mr. and Mrs. Barzillai Osborn, Nancy Johnson, Benjamin M. Daniels. Nancy Daniels, Betsy Terry, Sarah Chalmers, Phoebe Homan and Rev. and Mrs. William Chaffee.

tor. The church was admitted into the Mad River Association August, 1834. Until October 1 8th of that year services were held in the old Court House, at which time a house of worship was completed which is still standing on the corner of Union and Spring streets.

A request of the Presbyterian society for the use of the church on certain days was unanimously granted. Thus so early in our simple church history was recognized that principle now so widely advocated - "the universal brotherhood of man." The granting of such a request would no doubt have been considered sacrilege in the early days of the New England settlements.

During the pastorate of J. L. Moore, W. W. McKibben, who is now a missionary in China, was converted. It was while Mr. Moore was pastor that an organ was purchased and at the pastor's request was taken quietly into the church, as certain members were opposed to instrumental music.

South Lima Baptist Church. - This church occupies a tasteful brick edifice at the corner of Kibby and Pine streets, and is situated in the centre of a large and interesting population. Its membership is composed of working people of sterling character and spiritual worth. By their fellowship in Christian work and worship, they give promise of becoming one of the vigorous spiritual forces of South Lima.

in the W. C. T. U. Hall on West Kibby street, by 22 persons, who received letters of dismission from the First Baptist Church for the purpose of organizing a church on the South Side of the city. At this time there were in that portion of the city a population of 6,000, and only two churches, these together having a membership of less than 1,000. They were recognized August 31, 1896, as a regular Baptist church by a council of delegates from churches of the Auglaize Association. They chose for their name, "The Berean Baptist Church of Lima, Ohio." Rev. George Byron Morse, the retiring pastor of the First Baptist Church who had led them in the movement, was elected to be their pastor. Other officers were: Mrs. Emma Van Horne, clerk; John Bradrick, treasurer; Mrs. Allie Miller, financial secretary; Rev. George Byron Morse, superintendent of the Sunday-school ; R. E. Irwin and C. C. Klumph, deacons. The First Church turned over to them their mission at the corner of Second street and Forest avenue, and C. C. Klumph was elected to be its superintendent. They occupied for their first place of worship the second floor of the Bowdle Block, corner of Main and Pine streets. The organization began its work with enthusiasm and its first year, though one of struggle, was active and prosperous. At the end of 18 months, however, the pastor adopted the views of the Plymouth Brethren, and, with a half dozen other members, left the church and denomination to unite with that body. In January, 1898, their place of worship was changed to a room on Main street, a little north of Kibby, and Evangelist H. R. Baker was engaged to conduct a series of meetings. These resulted in several accessions and the calling of Mr. Baker to become their pastor. For five months, the stipulated time, he satisfactorily served them. About this time they gave up their place of worship, and all meetings and the Sunday-school were held in the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Bradrick, who nobly offered it for the purpose. In April, 1S99, Rev. L. J. Baker was called to become their pastor and began work with encouraging prospects, but the church failing of expected aid from the Ohio Baptist Convention,.

In the early fall the minds of the church and some friends outside, turned to Rev. W. H. Gallant, long and favorably known as a man of superior judgment and of great energy and success in church building, as a desirable leader for them in their present crisis. They called him October 8, 1899. He accepted and at once entered upon the work. His coming brought new hope, and introduced the period of the church's greatest prosperity. The first month had not closed before they had bought the very desirable lot at the corner of Kibby and Pine streets; and it was only a short time until pastor and people were engaged heart and hand in the work of building a church, an enterprise that hardly any other than Rev. W. H. Gallant would have thought possible of consummation. The work was carried forward with the pastor's well-known energy and tact, and the following fall, at the end of his first year of service, a church property costing more than $5,000 was dedicated free from debt. Rev. Dr. George E. Leonard, corresponding secretary of the Ohio Baptist Convention, preached the dedicatory sermon. During this year the name was changed to "The South Lima Baptist Church." Mr. Gallant's pastorate was also marked by a healthy spiritual development, and considerable growth in membership. In the summer of 1902 the pastor resigned and removed to St. Marys.

In October of the same year the church called to its pastorate Rev. G. W. Schmitz, then pastor at Ada. He served a year and a half in a pastorate of hard work and Christian devotion, but relinquished the work in March, 1904. The church was finding itself lacking in unity. There were unhappy difficulties and alienations, and several were excluded from the membership. Hearts were sore and there were discouragements.

Rev. C. M. Rupe, formerly pastor of the First Baptist Church of Lima, and at this time temporarily sojourning in the city, was requested to serve the church as supply until they should become ready to co-operate in the call of a pastor. This arrangement proved useful, and after a few months, at the urgent solicitation of a portion of the church and of the superintendent of missions of the Ohio Baptist Convention, Rev. C. J. Rose, he yielded to a call of the church and became its pastor and entered upon the work in October, 1904, the Ohio convention guaranteeing a liberal portion of the support. He is still serving the church in this capacity. It is believed that the church is entering upon a new and prosperous era. Unity and concord have been attained. Alienations have been healed. With unanimity and harmony, pastor and people are working for the growth of the church and the extension of the Kingdom of Christ. The church is well organized in all departments. The Sundayschool is a flourishing one under the superintendency of C. C. Klumph. The church societies are a Woman's Missionary Society and a Ladies Auxiliary, both under the presidency of Mrs. John Bradrick; a C. & W. Society composed of young women, Mrs. R. P. Ransom, president ; also a weekly boys' and girls' meeting, conducted by the pastor. The present officers of the church are : Rev. C. M. Rupe, pastor; Ralph P. Ransom, clerk; L. S. Gilmore, acting treasurer; Mrs. Frank Smith, financial secretary; C. C. Klumph, superintendent of the Sunday-school; M. L. Metzger, C. C. Klumph, R. E. Irwin (non-resident) and A. F. Palmer (non-resident), deacons. The present membership is 96. The pastor and church are facing the future with anticipations of vigorous growth.

Catholic

Church of St. Rose. - As early as 1830, Father Stallo, a missionary from Cincinnati, visited the Catholics of Allen County. Four years later the Father Baden visited this part of the State. The first mass in Lima was celebrated at the home of Mr. O'Connell by a Sanguinist Father in 1846, many people coming a distance of 15 miles to take part in the holy sacrament. During the building through Lima of the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railway and other roads, large additions were made to the Catholic population who were attended from 1850 to 1855 by Father Sullivan, of Tiffin and Father Kreusch, of Westminster, Ohio, alternately. Father Kreusch took steps for the building of a church, but was much discouraged when many of the Catholic families moved West. He, however, received as a donation from Nicholas Gunkel, a well-to-do Catholic pioneer, a fine lot on the Ottawa road, now North West street, and soliciting subscriptions from Catholic and Protestants alike, he succeeded in building a brick Gothic church, 34 by 40 feet in dimensions, in which he celebrated mass in 1858. The church was named "St. Rose" in honor of America's first canonized saint. John Goebel, one of the members of the original congregation, as a labor of love, made by hand all the windows and door frames, often working late into the night. Rev. Patrick Henneberry visited Lima in 1856. His successor was Rev. Michael Prendergast who visited Lima periodically in the year 1861. Rev. Edward J. Murphy was appointed St. Rose's first resident pastor, October 19, 1861. Land was purchased by Father Murphy in 1864 for a priest's residence. In June, 1862, Mathias H. Nichols, an ex-Congressman and one of our most prominent men, donated to the church a plot of ground, 350 feet on North West street by 360 on West McKibben.

O'Reilly who selected the present site of St. Rose; Rev. A. R. Sidley, who succeeded him and sang the first mass in the new church on New Year's Day, 1872; Rev. Francis J. Henry, who came after him in 1876; Rev. James O'Leary, who came in 1886; and Rev. Alfred E. Manning, who took charge of the parish in 1893.

During the administration of Father Sidley the present church building was erected at a cost of $30,000, which included the cost of the bell, the high altar and the organ. Improvements also were made in the parish school. Through the liberality of the people and the administrative ability of Father Henry the heavy church debt was cleared off during his administration, in 1882. He also erected the Sisters' residence while additions were made to the school and improvements secured for the church. Father Henry died in Lima in 1886. In 1887 Father O'Leary improved the church building by raising the roof and erecting the present graceful spire, known to all citizens of Lima. The following year a new schoolhouse, the one standing at the present day, was erected and an addition was made to the parochial residence.

At this time the great development of the oil industry brought to Lima a number of hardworking respectable Christian families, many of whom sought the privilege of the Catholic Church and it soon became a matter of necessity in order to accommodate them to either greatly enlarge St. Rose or to erect another church edifice. The former proposition was decided upon and in the fall of 1891 the sum of $12,000 was spent on the enlargement and improvement of St. Rose. Among these improvements were a 40-foot addition to the church, beautiful stained glass windows, a new high altar and mattings and carpets. In March, 1892, a grand pipe organ was placed in the church, which cost the congregation the sum of $3>°43- When Father O'Leary was called to Cleveland, he left but a small debt behind.

On November 1, 1893, the present priest, Rev. Albert E. Manning, was called to Lima from St. Ann's, Fremont, Ohio. He continued the work of improvement and from 1894 to 1896, accomplished the installment of modern heating apparatus in the church and school and in the residences of the Sisters and the priest. A further addition was made to the Sisters' residence, the school and residence of the priest were improved and stone walks with curbing were laid. The parish grew to such an extent that some five years ago it was divided and St. John's Catholic Church was erected at No. 799 South Main street. St. Rose has many church societies through which all the members of the congregation are reached so that each and every one can take active part in the upbuilding and improvement of the parish.

St. John's Church, located at No. 799 South Main street, was started by Rev. F. G. Rupert, who began his labors here June 30, 1901. The organization was speedily effected. The first committee consisted of Thomas Phalen, H. S. Simons, J. J. Malloy and D. J. Danaher as counsilmen, and of F. X. Sieber, Andrew De Curtins, Cornelius McAuliffe, John F. Seifried and Edward Kane as building advisors. Leech & Leech were employed as architects and De Curtins Brothers as builders. July 20th the plans were made and July 27th the contract was let.

Excavation was begun August 1st, and on September 8th the corner-stone was laid by Rt. Rev. J. F. Horstman, Bishop of Cleveland, amidst a vast concourse of people. It was estimated that 10,000 persons were present, many of whom had come from neighboring towns. On November 17th, the edifice was far enough advanced toward completion so that divine services could be held in it. On December 8th the bell that now swings in the church tower was blessed.

St. John's church and school edifice was solemnly dedicated on December 15th by Rt. Rev. J. F. Horstman, assisted by the pastor, Rev. F. G. Rupert, and others. The first floor is used for divine services and has a seating capacity of 575. The second floor has four large school rooms, and four cloak rooms and the third floor is a society hall 40 feet by 92 feet in dimensions. The building is 48 by 102 feet in dimensions and cost $20,000. The parochial rectory was begun in the late autumn of 1902 and finished in 1903. The parish embraces all Catholic families south of Market street and at present numbers 300 families. The parochial school was organized in the spring of 1902, with the Sisters of Charity, from Mount St. Joseph, in charge.

Under Father Rupert's care the parish and school have steadily increased in numbers and j efficiency and are important factors for good in the South Side community.

Father Rupert is a very forceful speaker, and a writer of marked power. His recent j articles in The Educational Herald, of Lima College, have been very widely read. He has many friends in Lima.

Lutheran

Zion's English Evangelical Lutheran Church. - Back in 1854 a number of Lutheran people of Lima and vicinity met together for the purpose of organizing a congregation. A preliminary organization was formed and services were held in temporary quarters. On May 2, 1855, a full constitution was adopted and the congregation was named the "First English Evangelical Lutheran Congregation of Lima,. Ohio." On January 20, 1862, the congregation was incorporated under the laws of Ohio as "Zion's English Evangelical Lutheran Congregation of Lima, Ohio," and Henry Boose, Joseph Roush and G. W. Overmyer were elected trustees of the congregation.

During the first 1 1 years the people were served in rapid succession by Revs. Doner, the Stirewalt brothers, Corbett and Nunemacher. Their first house of worship was the old schoolhouse, purchased from the city and situated on the site of the present church. In 1865 Rev. A. S. Bartholomew was called to the pulpit and served the congregation until about 1880. During the early part of his pastorate the present church edifice was built. During the latter part of his ministry he was assisted by Rev. G. T. Cooperrider for two years and Rev. C. H. Eckhardt for one year. After this the latter served the congregation till 1894. Rev. Carl Ackerman was pastor from April, 1895, t0 June, 1896. Rev. F. W. Rohlfing was pastor from June, 1896, to June, 1898, since which time Rev. Carl Ackerman has again served. The church has increased in membership in late years and is in an excellent condition at the present time.

St. Paul's Lutheran Church. - In the early '70's a number of persons belonging to Zion's Lutheran congregation separated from that church and organized St. Paul's Lutheran Church under Rev. J. G. Neiffer. It was chartered in 1880 and has steadily increased in importance as a religious factor in the development of Lima. In November, 1885, Rev. J. H. Hunton succeeded to the pastorate and served the congregation with singular acceptance and ability for a period of 14 years and one month.

the congregation increased in numbers and spiritual power. The church was freed from a troublesome debt and the lot was purchased on which the present structure stands. A large part of the price of the lot was paid by the Dime Society, which had been organized several years before. In the year 1897, Rev. C. S. Kohler, of Mount Vernon, New York, became pastor. His first work was to continue taking subscriptions for a new church, begun already by his predecessor. During the pastorate of Mr. Kohler, the new church was erected almost to completion. He was succeeded by Rev. F. P. Bossart, the present pastor, who is now in the sixth year of his incumbency. The church was speedily completed and dedicated with noteworthy and impressive -services. A new and elegant pipe organ costing $2,000 was placed in the church and paid for on completion. The congregation has largely increased, now numbering 350 members. The debt is being paid off gradually so that no one feels burdened. The Sunday-school under the efficient superintendency of Hon. I. S. Motter, assisted by a splendid corps of officers and teachers, is doing fine work. The organizations in the congregation, in addition to the Sunday-school, are the Ladies' Aid Society, the Dime Society, the Faithful Helpers and the Luther League. The congregation has an honorable record in the church at large. The church is beautiful throughout and has brought out the admiration and praise of all who visit its sanctuary. Its impressive liturgy and its simple and unostentatious style of worship meet the needs of the human heart.

German Lutheran Church. - This church has 135 members and Rev. R. Brenner is pastor. The church building was erected on Kibby street in 1904.

Reformed

Dr. P. Greding, then living at Riley Creek, felt that something could and should be done for these people. In a true missionary spirit he would ride to Lima on horseback over the mud roads, to preach in the German language. Later a German society was organized and a constitution adopted. Their first services were held in Sanford Hall and later in the Lutheran Church on Union street. In 1865 a little brick church was built on West Wayne street under the pastorate of Rev. William H. Fenneman. In 1887 during the ministry of Dr. J. H. Stepler the present church was built at a cost of $18,000. The church has now a membership of 800 with Dr. Paul H. Land as pastor. The previous pastors were Revs. Greding, Rettig, Fenneman, Pluess, Waldecker, Stepler and Baum.

Calvary Reformed Church was organized several years ago in a little frame building on the bank of the river on South Main street. On finding the location unfavorable, the society in 1894 purchased the corner lot on Park avenue and East High street where the present edifice was erected. The congregation was founded by Rev. J. J. N. Gruber, and since his time has been served by Revs. M. Schultz, D. J. Burkhalter, J. C. Hornung, F. C. Cromer (who resigned his pastorate to go as missionary to China), A. D. Wolfinger and Ervin E. Young, the present incumbent. The church is well organized having a Christian Endeavor, a Junior Endeavor, a Ladies' Aid Society and a Mission Study Class. The Sunday-school has a membership of nearly 200.

Church Of Christ

Wayne Street Church of Christ. - The Church of Christ was organized in Lima on the 2nd of December, A. D. 1869, according to the following agreement: "We, the undersigned baptized believers, agree to unite ourselves together into one body, to be known as the Church of Christ at Lima, Ohio. And we further agree that in everything pertaining to church relationship we will be governed by the teaching of the Word of God." This agreement was signed by the following persons :

David S. Cross, Francis M. Hall, H. W. Lewis, Byron Hale, A. P. Dixon, E. J. Mc- Guire, T. A. Udall, N. N. Dixon, Sallie R. Cross, Keziah Turney, Esther Hall, Lydia McGuire, Jennie Barber and W. H. Harper. On the 1 6th of July, 1871, the church employed as pastor, Rev. G. M. Kemp, who remained until October, 1879. The present pastor is Rev. J. M. Scholes. The house owned by and in which the society meets for religious worship is a brick structure on the south side of Wayne street between Main and Elizabeth streets.

South Side Church of Christ. - This church is located at the corner of Central avenue and Kibby street. It occupies an elegant and commodious new brick structure and is a very progressive and prosperous congregation. From its organization it has enjoyed unbroken and rapid growth numerically and financially as well as spiritually, and now has nearly 500 names enrolled in its membership, including a flourishing mission in Highland Park.

The organization was effected on the evening of March 2, 1897. Thirty-nine members of the Wayne Street Church of Christ, who at their own request had received letters of commendation and dismissal, met in the Congregational Church of Lima. Rev. J. V. Updike, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, who was present by invitation, preached a sermon "The Model Church" and proceeded to organize them and put them into working order. Israel Conrath and Philip Ingledue were selected for elders ; for deacons - W. N. Faurot, A. Clark, L. E. Cowles and William H. Smith. The trustees elected were George East, Philip Ingledue and George Daniels. For clerk, H. W. Pears was named and elected.

From this time regular services were held in the home of L. E. Cowles for a short time until April of the same year, when the church building on South Main street, formerly occupied by the English Reform congregation, was rented. Later the present site was secured and the church house built. On September 2i. 1899, the corner-stone was laid with fitting ceremonies with Rev. C. Mitchell,

W. Brundage and J. B. Underwood officiating. The building was completed and furnished and on June 10, 1900, was dedicated by Hon. Z. T. Sweeney, of Columbus, Indiana, late consul to Turkey. Under the leadership of its present pastor, Rev. G. H. Sims, the church paid off its mortgage on December 17, 1905. This paper was burned at the close of fitting exercises and rejoicing, six years from the laying of the corner-stone.

In April, 1897, Rev. C. Mitchell held a short meeting, then for six weeks Rev. A. W. Spill of Warren, Ohio, acted as pastor. Later Rev. J. P. Myers, of Wauseon, Ohio, was called to be minister of this flock for the first year of its history. During this year 30 members were added. On October 15, 1898, Rev. C. Mitchell took his place and continued as pastor for the succeeding three years. Under his ministry the church building was erected. In October, 1901, the present pastor, Rev. G. H. Sims, took up the work and is now in his fifth year with unabated success. During his ministry $800 in debts have been annually paid, the mortgage cancelled, and a flourishing mission started in Highland Park, for the lot and little chapel on which there is a debt of only $83. The pulpit in this mission has been supplied gratis by several neophyte young preachers, W. Pugsley being the present incumbent. Several preachers have started out from this congregation and are either at work or are preparing for it. Mr. Sims is intensely missionary and the church with its own home mission is looked forward to sending out a foreign missionary to be supported by them.

Episcopal

Christ Protestant Episcopal Church. - The beginnings of Christ Church Parish date back to the early '70's. There are no records of these early years in the archives of the parish, either because none was kept by the officers, or, if kept at all, because of their subsequent loss through carelessness or mischance. Such facts stated herein as relate to the early years have been gathered from the memories of the older residents of the parish, and, because of the death, removal or secession of many who were then active in church affairs, it has been very difficult to procure much accurate information.

In 1872 (perhaps as early as 1872) a few church families residing at Lima, then a town of less than 3,000 people, secured the establishment of a mission in their town. 1 he City Hall, an auditorium in the City Building fitted as a theater, was chosen to be their meeting place and Rev. Wainwright, then resident at Piqua, Ohio, was assigned to the mission by the diocesan authorities. Mr. Wainwright had formerly been in the missionary service in the far North, and upon one of his visits to Lima he delivered a lecture upon the manners and peoples of the Arctic zone. His manipulation of an 8o-foot dog-whip was a feature of that lecture that greatly impressed his audience. How long Mr. Wainwright supplied the mission cannot now be determined, nor does the writer know whether he be living or dead, but it is certain that his early ministrations served to knit together the church families in the parish to such a degree that the work, begun at that time, has never ceased, and the local church of to-day is the result.

Succeeding Mr. Wainwright, Rev. C. S. Bates came to the parish in the same capacity, remaining about six months. The work went on and plans for a church home were perfected and partly executed, and in May, 1874, three trustees for the parish (Robert Mehaffey, William B. Gorton and Shelby Taylor) took title to a lot on the corner of North and West streets, for which the parish paid the sum of $1,500.

In passing, it should be noted that during all the missionary period of the parish and until the organization of the parish after the building of the church, meetings were held periodically, every two weeks being the usual term, although at times the intervals were longer. Some time in the period of Mr. Kemp's service the people secured the old

Methodist Church as a meeting place. The Methodists had moved into their new church at the corner of Market and Elizabeth streets, leaving their old building vacant. The old church stood at the corner of Market and Union streets and has long since disappeared, the location now being given over to commercial business. But the little children who learned their catechism there will always remember the old church with love and reverence; it was their first church home, the City Hall never being anything else than a theater - never a temple. To Mr. Kemp must be awarded much credit for the work done during this period. Although but a missionary supply, visiting the parish every two weeks, with other work to distract his attention in other fields, his zeal for the movement to build a church at Lima never faltered. And after he was called to new fields of activity he did not forget Christ Church. The stone baptismal font now in use in the church is the gift of the scholars of Mr. Kemp's Sunday-school at Baltimore.

In July, 1878, the title to the parish lot was transferred to the trustees of the diocese and this is about the date of the laying of the corner-stone of the church building. The church was fitted for occupancy some time late in 1878, or early in 1879. It was consecrated by Bishop Bodell, the bishop of the diocese, and Rev. Leighton Coleman, then rector of Trinity Church at Toledo, Ohio, but now Bishop of Delaware, preached the sermon. He also held the first burial service from the new church upon the occasion of the death of Elizabeth Gordon Lamison, in April, 1879, one °f the pioneers in the church work.

At some time during the service of Mr. Kemp he introduced to the parish a deacon by the name of Charles S. Aves. Mr. Aves sometimes came to Lima instead of Mr. Kemp and read the service. The impressions made upon the parish by these early visits were so favorable that, after the completion of the new church, Mr. Aves having been in the meantime ordained to the priesthood, he was called to the parish and became its first resident minister. The records here arc faulty both locally and at the headquarters of the diocese. Some claim that the parish was fully organized at this time, and was afterward reduced to a missionary parish, as will appear later, but others insist that the parish was always missionary in character until 1889. Mr. Aves remained in charge of the parish until the latter part of 1881. He married in the parish the daughter of Judge Charles M. Hughes, and is now the rector of Trinity Church at Galveston, Texas.

After the departure of Mr. Aves, the parish entered upon a term of ups and downs that ended in its total disorganization. During this period the resident ministers were Rev. John L. Taylor, Rev. J. B. Pitman and Rev. R. C. Wall, in the order named. But, labor as they would, none of them seemed able to stem the tide of disaster overflowing the parish, and one after another they reluctantly abandoned the work. In 1888, there being again a vacancy in the parish and its affairs at a very low ebb, the missionary board took charge. Two trustees were elected, the vestry and other officers relieved of their responsibilities and the parish supplied every two weeks by the missionary board. Rev. A. B. Nicholas was the missionary who visited the parish regularly, and during this period there were a few services conducted by Rev. D. D. Edwards, an unattached priest temporarily resident in the parish. At the convention of 1889 the parish representatives proposed to call their own rector and to conduct its affairs thenceforth as a self-supporting parish if the convention would allow it for one year the sum of $100 from the missionary fund. This was agreed to and in October, 1889, the parish called Rev. Abner L. Frazer, Jr., who accepted the call and took charge; since then the parish has conducted its own affairs with uniform success, now has a complete organization and most important of all has its records in proper condition. Mr. Frazer married in the parish the daughter of L. H. Hume and is now the rector of St. John's Church at Youngstown, Ohio. He remained with the parish about four years.

of the parish until the 1st of May, 1896, at1 which time he was given leave of absence that, he might serve as chaplain of the Third Regiment, Ohio Infantry, U. S. Volunteers, in thewar with Spain. Mr. Crawford joined his regiment and served it during the war. He never resumed active work in the parish, but resigned his rectorship in September, 1898, and. is now the archdeacon of the diocese of Kansas, residing at Topeka.

Rev. G. F. Hoyt became rector of the parish November 1, 1898, and was in charge of affairs until September 1, 1905. Under his ministrations the parish work was more thoroughly systematized than ever before in its history; and its records were gotten into accessible and understandable condition. The usefulness and helpfulness of the church as a social', factor in the community is now firmly established.

United Brethren

First United Brethren Church. - The~ United Brethren Church in Christ effected their first organization in Lima in March, 1880. The services were held in a private house on West North street. Rev. William Miller organized the church with the following charter members : J. J. Ogden and wife, Thomas

The first church building was erected at the corner of Spring and Union streets and. cost $3,000. The congregation had a long struggle with debt and had just succeeded in arranging for the payment of the last dollar when the church took fire and burned, July 5, 1896. By heroic faith and earnest efforts the church, under the leadership of Rev. R. Wilgus, succeeded in erecting the present commodious building at a cost of $10,000. This again entailed a heavy debt on the society, but with liberality and constant effort year after year the debt was reduced, until on the evening of May 29, 1904, the last note was paid and notes and mortgage burned.

church : Revs. William Miller, W. E. Bay, D. N. Howe, D. A. Johnson, William Miller, J. Kline, A. W. Ballinger, I. Imler, R. W. Wilgus, L. C. Reed and the present pastor, A. E. Davis. The church has enjoyed many extensive revivals and has at this time a membership of 654. Sunday-school enrollment, 450; average attendance, 200.

Congregational

First Congregational Church. - At Cambrian Hall, March 18, 1887, the society was organized with 42 members. Rev. J. E. Davies was called to the pastorate. Services were held in the assembly room at the Court House and in Cambrian Hall until the last of October, 1892, when the church building on South Elizabeth street was finished and dedicated. Mr. Davies continued as pastor until the first of July, 1895, when his ill health -caused him to resign and seek a milder climate. In October, 1895, Rev. I. J. Swanson, of Odell, Illinois, was given a unanimous call by the church. He accepted and began work January 1, 1896, and is in charge of affairs at the present time.

The West Lima Congregational Church was organized in 1899 with about 20 members. Rev. J. G. Thomas has been pastor since its organization. It has a flourishing Sundayschool with about 90 members.

First Christian Church. - About 1902 Rev. G. B. Garner, now of Vaughnsville, Ohio, organized in Lima the Christian Church. He was pastor until a year ago, when Rev. S. S. Newhouse, D. D., took charge. Services were held in the Court House assembly room for two years. Last year the society finished a handsome brick church on the corner of Elm and Elizabeth streets and, from the 1 8th of December until the church was dedicated in July, services were held in the Sunday-school room of the church. At the dedication $4,800 was raised to liquidate the debt and provide for the pastor. The society has 80 members

Miscellaneous Churches And Missions

First Church of Christ ( Scientist ) - German Baptist ( Dunkard ) Church - Gospel Tabernacle - Salvation Army - And the Baptist, Beulah, Christian, Third Street and Solarvillc Missions.

Rev. Thomas Powell Johnston, deceased, an early pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, of Lima, was born March 15, 1819, at Wooster, Ohio, being the son of Thomas and Abigail (Powell) Johnston. His father, a native of Ireland, was of Scotch-Irish descent, and a descendant of one of those Presbyterian families whose faith was only strengthened by persecution. One of his ancestors, who emigrated to America some time in the early half of the 18th century, is supposed to be of the same lineage as Col. Richard M. Johnston, by whose hand Tecumseh is said to have fallen. Mr. Johnston's mother was a native of Pennsylvania, her father's family, the Powells, being among the early settlers of Chester County, in that State, where they have owned land for over a century.

The subject of this sketch was educated in Jefferson College, at Canonsburg, and at the Western Theological Seminary, in Allegheny. He was licensed to preach by the Beaver (now Shenango) presbytery and in 1848 was ordained a minister, the same year accepting his first call at Clarksville, Mercer County, Pennsylvania.

He was united in marriage in 1848 with Mary Haskell, daughter of Charles and Elizabeth (Dana) Haskell, both of whom were descendants of families of early settlers of Marietta, who with other pioneers occupied the block-house for several years. Mr. and Mrs. Johnston were the parents of four children : Mary E., Charles H. (deceased), Lizzie Mc- Lain (deceased) and Mrs. Grace Catt. Charles } II. Johnston was ordained a minister of the

Presbyterian Church in 1881. He was a young man of rare personality, hut his sphere of usefulness was cut short by his untimely death, which came just as he began his work. He was married to Mary B. Smith, of Lebanon, Pennsylvania.

Rev. T. P. Johnston remained in Clarksville for io years, coming to Lima in 1858; he was pastor in Lima in 1864; was stated supply at Lima Centre from 1864 to 1870; stated supply at Concord, 1871, and afterward engaged in missionary work whenever his work permitted. He had long been in feeble health and died from pulmonary trouble after a two weeks' illness, May 2, 1895. His death was a calm and peaceful one, fit ending to a life filled with good works. He was a man of fine education and marked ability. The Herald and Presbyter paid this tribute to him: "Mr. Johnston was a devotedly pious man, an earnest preacher, and a sound theologian. The Jefferson College students of 50 years ago who are still living will remember his earnest prayers, and also his efforts for the good of his companions. He was strong in his personal attachments, clinging to his friends throughout his entire life.

Rev. Robert James Thomson, D. D., late pastor of the Market Street Presbyterian Church, of Lima, whose portrait appears in this chapter, was born in Syracuse, New York, -on the 14th of August, 1855. He attended the common schools in his native city until 12 years of age, then left school to learn the mason's trade with his uncle, with whom he worked till he was 18. He then entered Syracuse University and, following this, Hamilton College, completing the four years' course in three years in each institution. At Hamilton he tutored throughout the course, graduating third in his class. He entered Union Theological Seminary in New York City, graduating therefrom in 1884. While at the seminary he had charge of Mizpah Chapel, a Russian church on 10th avenue near 57th street, and here he met Alice Walton, one of the Sunday-school teachers, who in 1885 became his wife. In May, 1884, he took a fourmonths' trip through Europe. His companions on this journey were Douglass Walton, brother of his fiancee, and Rev. S. G. Anderson, who was for 12 years pastor of Westminster Church in Toledo, and whose death occurred in October, 1900. On his return from Europe, Dr. Thomson took charge of the First Presbyterian Church at Winona, Minnesota, where he remained until he was called to the Market Street Presbyterian Church of Lima in November, 1890.

Dr. Thomson was always a tireless worker. As chaplain of the Second Regiment of the Ohio National Guard he was especially successful in his work among the boys, using a great deal of tact, which in such a position is peculiarly needful. He held this office from 1900 to 1905, when he retired on account of his prospective change of residence.

As a writer of short stories and also as a lecturer, Dr. Thomson won a considerable reputation. Several of his stories were taken up by the Youth's Compa>iio)i. It is interesting to note that the original of Westcott's hero of "David Harum'' fame lived in Syracuse in Dr. Thomson's younger days and the two families were intimate friends and neighbors. During his pastorate at the Presbyterian Church in Lima he was made chairman of the missionary committee of the presbytery, and also was made moderator of the synod, a position which he filled with great ability.

In the year 1905, on account of ill health, he decided to give up the ministry. He became interested in an orange grove plantation in Porto Rico and on the 25th of March sailed for the West Indies. His health, however, was not benefited by the change and, being recalled by a unanimous vote of his congregation, he returned to his pastorate at Lima.

After a long illness, Dr. Thomson died at Clifton Springs Sanitarium, New York. November 24, 1905. In November 27th a most impressive service was held over his remains at Lima in the church where he had so often preached the Sacred Word. His last resting place is in Greenlawn Cemetery. On December 3 a beautiful memorial service was held in his church.

Thomson, of the Market Street Church, is a man of striking personality. The extremes of society seem to have contributed to his making. He has the broad hard hand of an humble toiler that has been close to nature, a face that classes him on sight with the aristocracy of the intellect, and a manner that would carry him gracefully into any social circle. His is a personality that takes to itself friends, even of the mammon of unrighteousness, friends that come not to sojourn, but to abide with him.

"This American-Scotchman was born in Syracuse, New York, where he could look out on the Onondaga hills that the Irish orator Burke regarded as a synonym of savagery. Here he must have gained his remarkable powers of analysis. He seems to be able to take things apart and show you how easy it is to put them together again. Dr. Thomson has had two pastorates, one at Winona, Minnesota, of six and a half years, and at Lima. He is stronger with his people and stronger with the Lord every day. The summer of 1897, Wooster University did a very gracious thing in conferring on him the degree of Doctor of Divinity. Pre-eminently is Dr. Thomson a preacher of the word. As a preacher, he is striking, eloquent, magnetic and powerful. He does not come to the sanctuary each Lord's Day to sell Joseph's wheat at so much a bushel. He has resources of his own and can make Egypt grow wheat at a time when most would pronounce it famine. This takes his pulpit oratory out of the rut, divests it of bookishness and makes it fresh and interesting to an audience. A man of such parts is, of course, largely in demand by the public. His is the pioneer voice preparing the way for all public enterprises. Dr. Thomson married into one of the prominent families of New York City. His accomplished wife is a great help to her husband in every way."

Rev. Thaddeus L. Wiltsee, late pastor of Grace Methodist Episcopal Church, was born in Ontario, Canada, in 1850. When a boy of 13 he went to Chicago and secured a position as clerk in a bank. His college education was received at Northwestern University,

Evanston, Illinois, and later at the Ohio Wesleyan, where he graduated in 1873. After his graduation he was engaged for two years in the work of the Freedman's Aid Society of the Methodist Church at Holly Springs, Mississippi. Here he met and married Margaret Herbert.

Returning to Ohio in 1875, lie entered the Central Ohio Conference and served successively charges at Upper Sandusky and Marion. He was then sent to Toledo, remaining at the Broadway Church for three years and subsequently serving St. Paul's Church of that city for the same length of time. At the close of his ministry there his failing health compelled him to seek a change of climate in Colorado. His activity there was unabated, for we find him superintendent of missions in Arizona. Tohim is due the establishment of the first mission among the Navajo Indians in that State.

The climate, however, did not agree with; his wife and he returned to the Central Ohio- Conference, of which he became an active and prominent member. He was sent to Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church at Lima and here, in 1891, Mrs. Wiltsee died. Within a year her death was followed by that of a son. Four children of the first marriage are still living. They are: Rev. Herbert Wiltsee, of Rhinelander, Wisconsin; Edward Wiltsee, who is in business in Chicago; Mrs. Harriet Demorest, of Parkersburg, West Virginia; and Margaret Wiltsee, who is a student at Delaware, Ohio. In 1893 Mr. Wiltsee married Alberta Smith, by whom he had one son, Warren.

From Lima he was sent to Sidney, Ohio, and later to Marysville, Ohio. In 1900 he toured abroad for several months and after his return engaged extensively in lecturing.

In 1904 Mr. Wiltsee was installed at Grace Methodist Episcopal Church, Lima, and again in 1905 he received the same appointment, but his career was cut short by his death, which occurred at the Lima Hospital on Saturday, October 14, 1905. He was greatly loved by reason of his high Christian character and his earnest, successful work. His congregation and his many friends deeply mourn his loss.

Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church, was born at Teuterden, in the beautiful County of Kent, England. He was second in a family of eight children, and when 8 years old came with his parents to America, where the family settled in Breckville, near Cleveland, Ohio. The mother's maiden name was Mercer. On the father's side he is a descendant of the French Huguenots, who in the 17th century fled from the persecution of the home country and sought refuge in England. His early training and home life were eminently religious. Family worship was a part of the everyday routine, and although the church was three miles distant the family were never absent. Indeed, some of the members have no recollection of ever missing a Sunday. Such training, supplementing inherited proclivities, could not but bear fruit in a strong sense of the supremacy of the claims of man's mission, in a courage that recognized no obstacles, and in singleness of aim. Four of the children who lived to maturity worked their way through college, without a dollar of help and never spending a dime that was not earned.

After finishing his course at Berea College, Mr. Avann entered the Boston Theological School, and was the first man from Ohio to attend a Methodist school of theology. The era in the history of the Methodist Church, when a college education and theological training were considered non-essential, had closed and Mr. Avann is thus classed with the new generation of Methodist preachers. He was chosen president of his class, whose large membership came from many States, and he graduated with his degree in theology in 1877. Joining the New England Conference, his first charge was North Brookfield, Massachusetts, followed successively by appointments in Southbridge, Massachusetts, and Waltham, in the same State. He was next transferred to St. Paul's Church, Manchester, the largest church of any denomination in New Hampshire. Under Mr. Avann's ministration the growth was phenomenal and he remained here, as in all previous charges, three years, then the full time limit. During his pastorate at St. Paul's a delegation from the First Methodist

Episcopal Church, Findlay, Ohio, came to hear him, and by unanimous request of the quarterly conference Mr. Avann was transferred to Ohio and became pastor of First Church, Findlay, in April, 1889. Numerically and financially, this church soon became the strongest in the Central Ohio Conference, and the same success followed his appointment to the First Methodist Church, Van Wert, Ohio. Three years later, much against his wishes, he was made presiding elder of the Delaware district and the following year saw him transferred to the Toledo district. His six years' administration here resulted in an extraordinary development of Methodism. More than 20 churches were built, including all the best in the district: St. Paul's, St. John's, St. James', Asbury, Clark Street, Central Avenue in Toledo, also Bowling Green, Oak Harbor, Weston and Elmore. Not alone were churches organized and houses of worship built, but the salaries of the ministers in the district were increased over 25 per cent, and the missionary offerings were increased 55 per cent.

After serving his full term as presiding elder, Mr. Avann was appointed to the William Street Methodist Episcopal Church, Delaware, Ohio, where a successful year preceded his coming to Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church, Lima.

This is the largest Protestant church in the city and Mr. Avann is now serving his third year as its incumbent. Many improvements both in the church and parsonage attest to his wise and efficient management.

Trinity was never more united and prosperous than at present. The congregations are large and the church is one of the strongest forces in the religious activities of the city.

Rev. Clarence Mulford Rupe, pastor of the South Lima Baptist Church, came to Lima in the fall of 1896 as pastor of the First Baptist Church, and most of the time since has been a resident and an active minister of the city. After being pastor of the First Baptist Church about four years, he went West, by the urgent advice of physicians, seeking health for Mrs. Rupe. He at once received a call to the Baptist Church in Greeley, Colorado, one of the stronger churches of that State, and situated in one of its most beautiful and cultured young cities. During the first six months of residence in the new location, the bright, useful life of Mrs. Rupe was brought to its close by an acute attack of pneumonia, this event taking place February 9, 1901. After a successful pastorate of three years, family interests made it desirable that he should return to the East, and in the summer of 1903 he came back to Lima, where a portion of his family were residing.

The South Lima Baptist Church soon becoming pastorless and, being in great need of careful management, Mr. Rupe, at the urgent solicitation of a portion of its members and of the superintendent of missions of the Ohio Baptist Convention, accepted the pastoral care of this church, which still enjoys his labors and is prospering under his ripe experience and well-directed efforts. In October, 1904, he was happily married to Mrs. Jennie L. Ballanger, of Indianapolis, Indiana, a life-long friend well known and prominent in Christian work in that city.

Mr. Rupe was born in the village of Economy, Wayne County, Indiana, March 25, 1846, being the eldest son of Rev. Henry B. Rupe, a local lecturer of great popularity on temperance, slavery and education, a preacher of local fame and a citizen honored by his county with public office and other tokens of esteem. The subject of this sketch received his collegiate education at Denison University, and a thorough theological training at Rochester, New York, in one of the finest of the Baptist theological seminaries.

Before coming to Lima Mr. Rupe held pastorates in Springfield, Tiffin, McConnelsville, Le Roy, New York; and Franklin, Ohio. The last that at Franklin continued almost 11 years and was highly successful in all respects, one of the notable achievements being the building of a church edifice costing nearly $30,000. Several sermons of Mr. Rupe have been published and he has written frecjuently for the periodical press.

priests who have served the Catholic population of Lima, and who will long be recalled by the congregation of St. Rose, which he served so faithfully, was born in County Derry, Ireland, April 14, 1848, and died February 22, 1 886.

Father Henry received classical instruction in Ireland, was trained in philosophy and theology at St. Vincent's, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, and completed his course in the diocesan seminary. He was elevated to the priesthood on May 7, 1871, by the late Bishop Luers, in St. Patrick's Church, Toledo, where he remained in charge until May 1, 1872, when he was sent to take charge at Brier Hill, which included the missions of Mineral Ridge, Girard and Canfield.

In June, 1876, Father Henry was transferred to Lima, where he continued the beloved pastor of St. Rose until the close of a life which was notably one of Christian achievement. Ere more than in middle life, however, the good father, through strenuous work, had impaired his health, and in 1884 he visited his native land in the hope of recuperating, but, in the two remaining years which were permitted him, he never regained his former strength, although he never paused in his appointed work. He passed away, as he would have desired, in harness to the last, having twice celebrated mass on the day preceding his death.

The work Father Henry accomplished during his pastorate still stands as a lasting monument to his memory. The funeral was one of the largest ever seen in Lima, every one seeming to wish to pay a last token of respect. Bishop Gilmour, who preached the funeral sermon, paid an eloquent tribute to the many virtues and earnest labors of one of whom he spoke as one of the most successful priests of his diocese.

Rev. Alfred Edward Manning, pastor of the Church of St. Rose, at Lima, is a man whose learning and piety make him a power in the community. With exceptional gifts as an orator and spiritual leader, he has also shown himself an able administrator and has looked well to the material advancement of the parishes over which he has been called to preside. Father Manning was born September 1, 1856, in St. Patrick's parish, Cleveland, Ohio, and is a son of Thomas and Jane E. (Murray) Manning.

Thomas Manning was born in Ireland but he left his native land at the age of 14 years in order to enter the great machine shops at Glasgow, Scotland. There he was trained to be a skilled engineer and he later enjoyed the distinction of being the engineer who handled the engines of one of the first steamers which crossed the Atlantic ocean. He settled first at Boston but later lived in Cleveland, where he carried on an extensive manufacturing business during the remainder of his active life. For some years prior to his death he lived retired. He reared a family of 13 children.

Father Manning was educated in the parochial schools of St. John's Cathedral, Cleveland, and in St. Mary's Seminary of the West, at Cincinnati. In September, 1874, he entered the Seminary of Our Lady of Angels, Niagara Falls, New York. After completing his classical course he entered St. Mary's Seminary at Cleveland, in September, 1876, and after five years' study of philosophy and theology was there ordained priest by Rt. Rev. R. Gilmour, on July 2, 1881. On July 7th of that year he was appointed pastor of St. Mary's Church at Antwerp, Ohio, this field including the missions of Cecil, Emerald, Junction, Flat Rock, Hicksville, Mark Centre and Delaware Bend. When in the spring of 1883 he was transferred to St. Mary's at Clyde, he left behind him a remarkable aggregation of substantial results. He had enlarged and improved the churches of Antwerp and Hicksville, paid the debts of the churches at Delaware Bend and Junction, purchased and paid for a cemetery at Cecil, organized the mission and purchased land for cemetery, church and pastoral residence in Payne and had the church plastered and entirely out of debt.

Father Manning's success in his next field was a repetition of his former accomplishments. When he took charge of the church at Clyde, with its mission at Green Spring, he found a debt of $2,000 at Clyde and one of

$900 at Green Spring. By 1886 the latter was paid. In the same year the corner-stone was laid for the beautiful Church of our Lady of Mount Carmel, in Clyde, and by 1890 the church was frescoed and almost ready for use, its cost - over $10,000 - being practically paid. In February of that year Father Manning was called to be pastor of St. Ann, at Fremont, and here again blessings seemed to fall on parish and priest.

Father Manning said his first mass in the Church of St. Rose, of Lima, November 19, 1893. He then promised his people to serve them faithfully, and this promise he has kept in full measure. He has not only a powerful hold on the mass of his congregation but also on the thinking men of this body, and has a quiet method of inspiring enthusiasm which has brought about great material as well as spiritual prosperity. Personally he is beloved and reverenced.

Rev. Carl Ackerman, M. A., Ph. D., pastor of Zion's Evangelical Lutheran Church at Lima, and formerly president of Lima College, was born September 12, 1858, on a farm near Wooster, Wayne County, Ohio, and is a son of George Ackerman, for years a prominent contractor here.

Mr. Ackerman received his early education in the local country schools, attended the Clyde High School and then spent some time at Canaan Academy. In 1875 ^ie entered the Capital University at Columbus, Ohio, where he was graduated with the degree of A. B. in 1879. He engaged in teaching until 1881, when he entered the theological department at the Capital University, where he was graduated in 1884. He was married in October, 1884, to Mary Reese, a daughter of Rush Reese, a prominent farmer of Wayne County, Ohio. For the following nine years he served charges at Attica, Lithopolis, Fremont and Fostoria. In 1893 he came to Lima to accept the presidency of Lima College, which had just been organized. Mr. Ackerman has given the weight of his name and the fruits of his intellect to this institution ever since, continuing as its president until 1897. He remained dean of the faculty until 1903, when he resigned.

Tut continues to hold the chairs of mathematics and mental science. In 1888 his alma mater on him the degree of M. A., and in 1901 he was given the degree of Ph. D.

During his long association with Lima College he has been repeatedly offered positions of .great honor in the church as the head of large and important churches, but his heart has been in his work in Lima and here he has felt it liis duty to remain. Since 1898 he has been the beloved pastor of Zion's Evangelical Lutheran Church at Lima ; he had previously been pastor from April, 1895, to June, 1896.

Mr. Ackerman has been a frequent contributor to religious and educational journals and magazines, was chairman of a committee of four appointed by the Joint Synod of Ohio for the preparation of a hymnal with music for Lutheran churches, and is at the present "time actively taking part in a movement for the publication of Luther's works in English. In 1903 he took part in the organization of the International Lutheran Library Association and is one of its vice-presidents.

Rev. Frank Philip Bossart, pastor of .'St. Paul's Lutheran Church, came to Lima in the fall of 1899 to take up his present charge. He is a thoroughly educated churchman, having received his academic education at Thiel and his theological education at the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. His former pastorates were in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and Buffalo, New York, in both -of which cities he organized new congregations "which have steadily grown in power and influ- 'ence. The beautiful new St. John's Church, of Pittsburg, costing $33,000, was built during his pastorate in that city, and the Church of the Redeemer, of Buffalo, now having about 500 members, was organized during the first years of his ministry in that city. He is known in the church as a good preacher, an earnest worker, a successful organizer and a pleasant gentleman. During his ministry in Lima he lias at various times addressed the prominent fraternal organizations and is known for his -candor and firmness in dealing with public -questions. He has served a term as president of the Luther League of Ohio, and is a member of the topics committee of the Luther League of America, whose duty it is to prepare subjects of study for the young. He has for three years been secretary of the District Synod of Ohio, and has been president for two years past of the Northern Conference of said synod. Last fall he was called to Binghamton, New York, and for a time was undecided, but his Lima congregation spoke in no uncertain terms and the happy relation so long cherished between pastor and people still continues.

Rev. Paul Henry Land. At Breslau, the largest and most influential city of the eastern part of. the German Empire, was born the subject of our sketch, who is pastor of the German Reformed Church of Lima. He went through the schools and colleges of his native city and in 1887 emigrated to this country. He first came to Cleveland, Ohio, and continued his studies at Calvin College, an institution of the Reformed Church. In the year 1890 he graduated with honors and went to Ursinus Seminary at Philadelphia, takinig a course in theology. After graduating from the seminary he at once received a call from Zion's. Reformed Church in Baltimore, Maryland, which charge he served acceptably .for four years, beginning at the same time a post-graduate course in the oriental languages at the Johns Hopkins University. This course he completed in 1897, having been appointed "Fellow by Courtesy'' in 1896 and holding this office for two consecutive years. President Gilman, now of Carnegie Institute ; Prof. Paul Haupt, and Prof. Gildersleeve, well known among educators, were then members of the university faculty. During these years Mr. Land also taught classes in French, German and Hebrew at Dr. Deichman's famous gymnasium school at Baltimore.

In 1898 Mr. Land accepted a unanimous call to the German Reformed Church at Lima, Ohio, following his natural inclination to preach and to teach, and this position he has occupied for the last seven and a half years.

Rev. Ervin E. Young. In Fairfield County, Ohio, on a farm near Bremen, was born the subject of our sketch, who is pastor of Calvary Reformed Church. His early edit- cation was received at country schools. At 16 years of age he entered the Ohio Central Normal College at Pleasantville, Ohio, completing the normal course in 1889. He remained one year at this school as assistant instructor in algebra and geography and then took up the study of the law. He found the legal profession distasteful, however, and turned to the ministry. He entered Heidelberg University at Tiffin, Ohio, in 1892, completing the classical course in 1896 with his degree of Bachelor of Arts. While attending the university he paid his expenses by clerking in a shoestore. In the fall of 1896 he entered the theological department at Heidelberg and upon finishing the course in 1899 he received his degree of Bachelor of Divinity. During his theological training, Mr. Young supplied the First Reformed Church at Fremont, Ohio, the Lindsay charge at Lindsay, and the First Reformed Church at Caruthers, Ohio. During his vacations he supplied the Grace Reformed Church at Lancaster, Ohio.

After completing his seminary course he accepted a call from St. John's Reformed Church at Germantown, Ohio, where he served until coming to Lima, October 1, 1903. Under his earnest ministry at Germantown the congregation increased in membership from 200 to nearly 400, the church was remodeled and repaired, and a new parsonage valued at was purchased. He had found the church greatly in debt and left it in possession of a bank account. His labors in Lima have been similarly rewarded and under his efficient and pleasant ministry his church has taken in members from all parts of the city and the congregation has been almost, doubled. During the last two years they have contributed almost as much to benevolence as to the current expenses of the congregation.

Rev. George H. Sims, or the "marrying pastor," as he is familiarly called in Lima, is the pastor of the South Side Church of Christ. He is the youngest child of Capt. John H. Sims, late of Cleveland, Ohio, and his wife, formerly Sophronia O. Gillette, of Newburg, Ohio. For many years Captain Sims sailed out of Cleveland as a lake navigator. His interests were connected with this city from the time it numbered a few hundred inhabitants until it was consolidated with what was then Forest City. At this time he removed to Royalton, Ohio, and later to Spencer, Medina County, Ohio. Here on January 9, i860, on a farm in the Black River bottoms, was born the subject of our sketch. His early education was received in the district school. He graduated later from the Hinckley High School and then attended the Ohio Normal University at Ada to prepare himself for the work of teaching. He taught school for several years until at the age of 28 he entered upon his life work of the ministry. At this time also he was married to Cora E. Updike, daughter of the great evangelist, Rev. J. V. Updike. Mrs. Sims traveled with her husband for several years as musical director. She is a very efficient helpmeet for Mr. Sims. Two boys, Fay Updike and Kenneth J., are their only living children, a little daughter, Iva Belle, having died in infancy.

Mr. Sims' first meeting was held at Bluffton. He then held a pastorate at Edgerton, Ohio, for two years, enlarging the pastorate and refitting the church. From this place he was called to minister for the First Church, of Fort Wayne, Indiana. The membership was doubled at this place, the debts paid off and a parsonage built, which was afterward sold for $3,200 to help build the new church. His ministry here was very successful, but on account of ill health he resigned and accepted a Western pastorate in Wichita, Kansas, remaining there four years. During his ministry at this place over 500 members were added to his congregation and the church became the largest in numbers of this denomination west of the Mississippi River. He was called to be State evangelist and later became general evangelist under the national board, with headquarters at Cincinnati, Ohio. Although very successful, he left this field and located at Tiffin, Ohio where he became pastor of a small but wealthy congregation.

He is still young and in the midst of usefulness. He is now working to send a missionary to foreign lands to be supported by his congregation.

Rev. Isaac J. Swanson, B. A., B. D. Located in Northern Scotland is Thurso, the little "town that is seated by the sea." This old town of Caithness, bristling with historic facts and traditional fancies, was the birthplace and early home of Rev. Isaac J. Swanson, pastor of the First Congregational Church of Lima.

Throughout Scotland there is hardly a locality where a boy is not within two or three miles of a school where he can get the necessary preparation for college, and our little Scotch lad early pursued his education in his native town at a noted academy for matriculation at a Scottish university. While still quite young, however, he came to America, but not before something of the rugged strength of that stern Northern clime had left its impress on his nature expressed in the strong personality and sturdy simplicity and power that characterize the man we know to-day.

Mr. Swanson finished his college course in Montreal at McGill University, the leading Canadian institution of learning whose degrees are recognized by Oxford in England, Vienna in Austria and by Harvard and Yale. He excelled especially in Hebrew, and graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. A course in theology followed at the Congregational College in Montreal, and here he won the special prize offered for general excellence and was made valedictorian of his class. Coming to the United States, he completed his theological education at Chicago, graduating with the foremost members of his class and receiving the degree of Bachelor of Divinity. While in Chicago, besides pursuing his own studies, he taught English to -the foreign classes at the seminary. His first charge was at Odell, Illinois, where he remained about three years, meeting with notable success. During his pastorate there he was a member of the State Home Missionary Board and moderator of the local conference. On leaving Odell he was presented with a gold watch and highly complimentary resolutions from his church and congregation.

In 1895 Mr. Swanson received a call from Lima, which he accepted, and he preached his first sermon in the First Congregational Church of this city on the first Sunday in the year 1896. His 10 years of ministry here have been marked by a steady increase of membership, over 240 having been added, and a decrease in the church debt by $5,000 until at present the debt is so small as to be a scarcely perceptible burden on the shoulders of the congregation. As a preacher and pastor he easily takes front rank and his church fills a prominent place in the religious life of the city. Mr. Swanson has been twice honored by being chosen moderator of the Toledo Conference, and he was sent as a delegate to the National Triennial Council of the Congregational Churches in the United States.

Going abroad in 1903, he toured extensively in his native country and England, besides taking a short trip through France. The story of these travels has been told in a number of illustrated lectures. He has been very active in the Y. M. C. A. work of the city and his labors in the Sunday School Training Class have been markedly successful. His influence and happy method of instruction resulted in the largest graduating class, that of 1905. This class presented him with a very handsome set of books in token of their regard and of their appreciation of his services. His appointment as secretary of the Sunday School Teachers' Training Association of Allen County, and as president of the Pastors' Union of Lima, attest to the prominence his labors have won him and are a wellAleserve/d acknowledgment of his learning and sterling religious character, as well as the high esteem in which he is held by his clerical co-workers. He is generally regarded as one of the ablest ministers in the city of Lima, possessing the highest regard of the public generally, and the confidence and love of his own congregation.