Madison County, Ohio - Chapter 25: Churches of Madison County, 1915 (part 2 of 2)

The writer can remember well what a popular question for country debates was that of everlasting punishment in that awful hot place that some believers in it had ever ready for other people but not for themselves or their families. Indeed, the person at that time who thought a finite being could not commit an infinite sin was to some extent ostracized, a real martyr to his religion and certainly needed all his faith in a God of love and mercy to endure the opposition, one might almost say. persecution. One of. my earliest recollections is of attending one of these debates on the subject of eternal torment in which my father was one of the debaters for the Universalist side and I was wonderfully impressed by it. We no longer hear much of this question as a topic for a debate. The people have simply grown nearer together, it seems to me.

Plain City Universalist Church

The history of the Universalist church of Plain City in reality dates as far back as the year 1832, when arrangements were made with the Rev. Chandler Rogers, then 'residing in the town of Worthington, Ohio, to come to Plain City occasionally and preach. He agreed to come and preach once a month, his. compensation being only what he would derive from the penny collections. This was in 1832 and the. reverend gentleman, came near losing: his life that summer while returning home from his June appointment. The number of persons interested in the cause. of Universalism became gradually stronger and in 1835, Reverend Jolly, of Jersey, Licking county, Ohio, was chosen pastor. He was the first minister regularly employed and was engaged to preach once a month. Reverend Jolly was an uncle to Zenas Rice, residing in toewn,.and also of Joseph Rice, residing on the plains. He preached in an old school house which then stood about two and a half miles west of town. At the close of his pastorate Rev. William Y. Emmett was employed as the regular minister. He also preached in the school house mentioned above for a short time, or until Dr. D. K. Bigelow erected a barn on the farm later owned by Daniel Boyd, after which this barn was used for holding church services. The barn was filled to its utmost capacity every time services were held, persons sitting on the cross beams and large timbers overhead. Seeing the congregation growing in numbers and interest Reverend Emmett took advantage of the situation.and proceeded to effect an organization. The organization was finally effected in .1842, and 'Dr. D. K. Bigelow, Elihu Knapp and BH. C. Smith, Sr., were chosen trustees. The articles of church government were written by Zenas Martin, a brother-in-law to Reverend Jolly, a former pastor. In the organization twenty-five persons united with the church, of whom the following is a complete list: D. K. Bigelow, Liddle Bigelow, Zenas Martin, Elmira Martin, E. C. Smith, Sr., Irena Smith, Asaph Allen, Aaron §. Curry, Hiram Dodge, Lucinda Baxter, Fannie Harrington, Elisha Cutler, D. C. Ellis, Mary L. Ellis, William Dougherty, Mary Dougherty, William Orr, Elihu Knapp, M. B. Curry, Abram Baxter, Clarinda Dodge, Emeline Stevens, Solon Harrington, Emma Cutler and Farmery Hemingway.

Just previous to this organization, however, the spirit of Universalism was being aroused all over this section of the country as the natural result of the co-operation and active labors of a few zealous workers. These were Rev. Truman Strong, Reverend Jolly and Timothy Bigelow. They are known by the Universalists as the "pioneer ministers" of Ohio, and on horseback they traveled from place to place organizing societies and associations. An association was simply a district affair and was: made up of representatives from the several churches in the district. The one to which the Plain City church belonged was known as the Winchester association. These men went still further in their work and finally succeeded in organizing a supreme head for the church throughout the state, and this organization was termed the state convention, which name is still retained. 'The state convention' consisted of representatives from the association, but in later years the associations were abandoned and the delegates are now sent direct from the several churches. The last meeting of the association for this district was held at Springfield, Ohio, and the representatives from Plain City were J. K.' Holycross, EH. C. Smith and Russell B. Converse.

Rev. William B. Linell assumed the pastorate of the church hereafter the departure of Reverend Emmett, and occupied the position for three years. During his administration services were held in an old school house on the lot later owned: and occupied by Mrs. Holleran, back of the present school building.

'The next minister to be called was Rev. Cyrus Filmore Wait. He arrived in Plain City in 1846 or 1847, and remained until after the opening of the Civil War. Soon after assuming the pastorate he showed a desire for the congregation 'to possess a chureh building of its own, and at once started a movement among the members which finally resulted in the erection of the building on South Chillicothe street, which was torn down in September, 1889, to make room for the present building. Finally agreeing to build a church, a building committee, consisting of Dr. D. K. Bigelow, Capt. E. C. Smith and Squire Elihu Knapp, was appointed and soon afterward the congregation purchased the ground for the building from the widow of Zenas Martin for the sum of seventy-five dollars. John McCloud, later a lawyer and the man who, in 1853, taught the first public school in Plain City, together with Maturin Harris, opened a brickyard and proceeded to manufacture brick for the proposed church. Everything was got in readiness as soon as possible and William Allen, later a grocer in Plain City, but then following his trade as a mason, went to work and put up the walls. There is no official record showing exactly when the building was commenced, but the memory of several fix the time as some time during the summer of 1848, while others say it was a year later. But be that as it may, the building was not completed and dedicated until in June, 1850. It was, however, the first regular church erected in the town of Plain City. Soon after the completion of the building the society was reorganized and the former building committee was made a board of trustees, and Curtis McCloud was raised to the office of deacon. Two other deacons were elected at the same time, but their names are unknown at this late date. I. E. Bigelow was. chosen clerk and treasurer, which office he held until during the Civil War. Reverend Wait was still pastor of the church and was well liked until he made an unwise expression in 1864. The excitement of the war might have had something to do with it, but nothing was officially done until some time afterward, when the reverend gentleman announced that "since the death of Dr. D. K. Bigelow and E. C. Smith, Sr., there was nobody about Pleasant Valley worth saving." The society thought different and Reverend Wait was deposed, and for a time the congregation was without a minister. During the interim, or in the year 1864, Rev. J. W. Henley, who in after years served as pastor, arrived in Plain City and established a Sunday school, this auxiliary to the church starting off under the supervision and the superintendence of I. E. Bigelow and Mrs.

people in that vicinity who needed the benefits of the gospel, notwithstanding Reverend Wait's remark to the contrary, that gentleman assumed the pastorate of the ehureh in 1865 and remained there unti! 1870, after which, and during Reverend Norton's administration, the affairs of the church moved along smoothly and harmoniously. Later ministers followed in the order named: 1870-71, Rev. S. P. Carlton; 1872-73, Rev. J. D. Laur; 1874-75, Rev. F. N. Glover; 1875-76, Rev. J. D. Laur; 1876-79, Rev. N. A. Saxton ; 1880-81, Reverend Crossley and wife, both ministers, and both of whom were employed, occupying the pulpit on alternate Sundays; 1882-83, Rev. T. P. Abell; 1883-84, Rev. F. K. Beem; 1885-88, Rey. J. W. Henley. 'The erection of a new church was considered for some time, but under the impetus given by a series of meetings held in March, 1889, in which Rey. N. Crary and Doctor McLaughlin, of Westville, rendered valuable assistance to the pastor, the work was determined upon and subscriptions were circulated and liberal responses made, the largest being given by the late Elihu Knapp, who gave something over seven hundred dollars. The work looking practical, ° a building committee, consisting of R. H. Andrews, S. Holycross and J. H. Scott, was appointed, and after considering several plans, that presented by C. A. Stribling & Company, of Columbus, was adopted and work was begun about the first of September following. The favorable weather during the fall and winter favored the steady progress of the work. The vestry, or Sunday school, room was completed about the holidays, and services were held therein until the main room was completed.

The church stands on the east side of South Chillicothe street, between the public school building on the north and the corporation building on the south, and is centrally located: It is semi-Gothic in style, fronts fifty feet on the street and has a depth of forty feet. The vestibules at the corners are each twelve by twelve feet, and each affords an entrance to the auditorium. 'That in the southwest corner is a tower in which hangs the bell that for so many years called the members together in the old church. In the rear is a vestry, twenty-six by forty feet, that is connected with the auditorium with folding doors, so as to be available on important and special occasions. The windows are arched and of stained glass. The internal arrangements of the church are of the most convenient and desirable character. The pulpit is placed at the west and above that is a large window of stained glass with the motto: "God is Love." The floor rises gently from the pulpit, having an inclination of twenty-two inches toward the vestry. The walls have a wainscoting four feet high, and the ceiling is of iron with steel finish, extending to the roof, the main trusses showing, the church being the first building in the town to be provided with an iron ceiling. The floors are carpeted throughout. The pews are of a neat and comfortable pattern in oak, and are arranged in a semi-circle, thus bringing all in an easy relation to the pulpit. The choir is to the left of the pulpit and is supported by an excellent organ, the gift of Mrs. Ada Bradley. The cost of the church was seven thousand dollars.

Alder Chapel Univiersalist Church

Alder Chapel Universalist church' was organized as a society in the spring of 1860, and was known as the First Universalist church of Jefferson township, though there had been occasional visits of Universalist ministers for years, directed to the interest of that vicinity. In the year the society was organized, Thomas Timmons deeded a half acre of ground in consideration of fifty dollars, on which to erect a church building, and the same year a comfortable, plain, but neat structure, twenty-eight by forty feet, was erected, at a cost of about one thousand dollars, including the bell. It is quite probable that the doctrine of the "glad tidings which shall be for all people" was proclaimed to some of the first settlers years before. Certain it is that meetings were held by them in the school house in Jefferson as early as 1837. Before 1860 the scat- tering friends of this faith, through the kindness of the Methodists, held meetings in an old hewed-log building - the original Foster Chapel - then standing a few feet northeast of the Chauncey Beach monument. It was the understanding that the Universalists were to have certain times for holding their meetings. It seems probable that the doctrines were becoming distasteful to some of the Methodists and in mistaken zeal they undertook to destroy the Universalist worship. Certain it is that once when a Universalist preacher came from a distance to preach, he ana his congregation found a Methodist congregation on the inside; and so he preached just on the outside. In justice, let it be said that the majority of the Methodists did not approve of the policy of some of their leaders, nor did their pastor, who scored them severely when he came to learn the true state of affairs. But it was too late, for a subscription paper had been passed around and about one thousand dollars pledged for building a Universalist church. This above information is given to answer the question why there are two churches side by side, and why not but one and that one a settlement house. But the modern critic does not understand the church spirit of that age.

The same year this society was organized they erected a plain but neat church edifice twenty-eight by forty feet on one-half acre of land deeded to them by Thomas Timmons. When the building was completed the society lacked about two hundred dollars with which to pay for same, and in order to obtain the key, Thomas Timmons and the three trustees, Henry Francis, George Folmer and James Huggett stood good for the amount and finally paid it.. The church held occasional and sometimes regular services until March 15, 1870, when it was reorganized by Reverend Moore, at which time and name of Alder Chapel Universalist church was given to it, quite a BESS of that honorable name having just joined.

This church has had quite a large membership in the past, but nearly all are dead or have moved away; has held many grove meetings, in addition to other meetings; has contributed much to charitable enterprises; has helped to build Buchtill College and has been served by quite a number of the best preachers. Though now somewhat dormant, like other rural churches, yet the flame of God's Holy Spirit has not ceased to burn upon its sacred altar. Its small Sunday school has this year (1915) sent out scientific temperance literature for twenty-five families. This church stands against the saloon. Its present officers are Finis High, trustee; H. D. Folmer, trustee and deacon; Ruth Stuckey, trustee, and D. J. Cutler, clerk. The late H. C. Alder was treasurer.

In the early seventies there were quite a number of residents of London who had formerly belonged to the Lutheran church, the grand old church of the Reformation, and who still clung to its teachings and cherished its doctrines.

About the year 1875, they arranged to have the preaching of the Word, rented a room upstairs in the Buff block and secured the services, at regular intervals, of students from the Capitol University at Columbus, which was under the auspices of the joint synod of Ohio. Among those who were interested in the effort were Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Strauss, Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Brobst and family, Mr. and Mrs. E. R. Ebner and family, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Placier and family, Mrs. Mary Weber, Mrs. John Speasmaker and Mrs. Jacob Bescher, now Mrs. Henrietta Endress.

In the summer of 1877, dissatisfied with their efforts under the direction of the joint synod of Ohio, the congregation decided to change to the general council branch of the church. After conversing with Rev. G. W. Mechling, of Lancaster, Ohio, who was then president of the district synod of Ohio, the latter referred the. matter to Rey. H. Peters, pastor of the First English Lutheran church of Columbus, Ohio, who soon cume to London, and finding conditions favorable, arranged to hold regular preaching services, and that autumn the congregation was formally organized as the St. John's Evangelical Lutheran church, with Rev. Mr. Peters as the first pastor.

A hall was rented in the second story of Stroup Brothers' grocery-store building, where the Spitler dry-goods store now stands. This was nicely furnished with a puipit, pulpit chairs, a melodion, loaned by Mrs. Brobst, and a suitable number of chairs to seat a congregation. Hymn books were purchased for the church and Sunday school and other literature of various kinds provided for the different branches of church activities.

During the winter of 1880-81, this building burned with all its contents. This was 2 sad blow to the young congregation, as they carried no insurance on anything they had. They were without a pastor, as Rev. Mr. Peters had been called to serve in another field some months previous; but, nothing daunted, they rented a room in the Cartzdafner building across the street and started anew. They realized more than ever the need of their own church building, and, with faith in God and determined effort, pressed toward this end. They had purchased a lot on the corner of Second and Walnut streets some years before, so with the added urging of their misfortune they now hastened to make this dream a reality.

On August 7, 1881, the corner stone of the new structure was laid with appropriate exercises, and the following year, 1882, on June 11, the edifice was dedicated. In the meantime, Rev. W. H. Brown had become pastor and during his residence in .London the parsonage was built. Succeeding Reverend Brown, the pastors who served this congregation were the following in the order named: Revs. J. Snyder, J. Weber, A. H. Kennard, C. E. Schweikert, A. J. Holl and Paul Siebert. During two years Rev. M. L. Wagner, of Dayton, conducted services at regular intervals, and at present Rev. S. P. Stupp, of Springfield, is serving in this capacity.

During the year 1888 the ladies of the church organized a society which they called the Dorcas society. The first meeting was held'on the 15th of February, that year, at the church, with fifteen energetic ladies in attendance and twenty-one names on the membership roll. The following officers were elected at that meeting: President, Mrs. Rey. John Snyder; vice-president, Miss Mary Mitchell, now Mrs. John Hanson; secretary, Miss Anna Ebner; treasurer, Miss Lizzie Mitchell. The purpose of this organization was to unite in performing good work for their chureh and for the advancement of the cause of Christ. The earnest co-operation of all was required, as they proposed to begin by giving their assistance in first paying off the debt arising from © the construction of their new edifice, which they succeeded in doing within a very short period of time.

Several of the charter members of the Dorcas society have passed away. They are: Mrs. Christopher Strauss, Mrs. John Speasmaker, Mrs. EH. R. Ebner and Mrs. Fred Placier. Mrs. Mary Weber has withdrawn on account of old age. This society has been so successful in all its undertakings that it has become necessary to the church in its work and without it the congregation feels that it would be entirely wanting.

Antioch Christian Church

It appears that the first religious society to enter Pleasant township and to organizze for church work was the Christian denomination and their first church was what is now known as the Antioch Christian church. On June 30, 1812, a few persons of the Christian faith assembled at the house of Forgus Graham, and entered into a compact as follows: "We, the undersigned Christians, hereby organize ourselves into church fellowship by taking the Bible as our only rule of faith and practice, and Christian character as our only test of fellowship, and Christian as the only name, and to be known as the Deer Creek Christian Church." This was Signed by the following: Forgus Graham, Betsey Graham, Malinda . Graham, Francis Grant, Nancy Grant, James Graham, Polly Graham, Roling Graham, Roling Grant, Betsey Grant, Samuel Powell and Betsey Powell. A few other names were added later. They had no church building but the society had preaching at the house of Forgus Graham for many years;- oceasionally, however, preaching services being held at other homes in the neighborhood... In those times, when the country was sparsely settled, and rouds were few and muddy, it was difficult to hold preaching with any regularity; hence the people often became negligent of church duties and the church would have to be reorganized. This was the condition of this church. It was reorganized on February 27, 1825, under the name as given above. And again, March 25, 1882, it was reorganized, under the same name, with Forgus Graham and John Alkire as elders; Patrick Davidson and John Graham, deacons, and John Graham, clerk. The next and final reorganization was effected on February 13, 1854, by Elder Samuel Wilson and Cyrus Gordy, under its old name. In September, 1858, money was raised by subscription and a house was erected for church purposes, which. was formally: dedicated on November 21, 1858, by Elder Dr. Dawson, at which time it was decided that it should thereafter be known as the "Antioch Christian Church." In 1864, the following persons were elected trustees: John M. Smith, John S. Robison, A. N. Wilson, H. G: C. Alkire and F. O. P. Graham. Rev. M. M. Lohr was the pastor in 1882. The present pastor is Rev. C. C. Ryan. This church is a station of the Mt. Sterling circuit.

Mt. Sterling Christian Church

It is believed that soon after the organization of the Antioch Christian chart that congregation received some members from the vicinity of what is. now Mt. Sterling, and that they continued to meet with the. Antioch brethren, and were identified with them in church relationship until about the. year 1825, when the Mt. Sterling Christian church was organized with the following members: George Hornbeck and wife, John R. Robison and wife, John J. Smith, Pleasant Southward and wife, Mary Alkire and George Alkire, with John R. Robison and George Hornbeck, as deacons, and George Hornbeck, clerk. The first pastors who ministered to the church were James Burbridge, Forgus Graham, Daniel Long and George Alkire. For several years services were held in private houses, and among the houses where they most frequently met were those of George Hornbeck, Mary Alkire, John J. Smith, John R. Robison and George Alkire. In 1837, they erected a brick house for church purposes, on the site of the present building. This house served the church for several years, but was from the time of its erection a defective building, and was finally pronounced unsafe and taken down. The membership of the society becamie greatly reduced by deaths and removals, and finally the organization ceased to have an existence.

From that time there was occasional preaching by various ministers of the denomination, services being held in the Methodist church, but not until February 3, 1870, did the church again have an identity as a religious body. At that date the church was reorganized by Rev. W. N. Overturf, with fifteen members, of whom F. O. P. 'Graham and D. E. Robison, were made deacons; B. F. Thomas, clerk, and William 'Heath, John R. Robison and B. F. Thomas, trustees. During the year 1871, a neat and substantial brick church was erected and was furnished at a cost of about four thous. and two hundred dollars, in which house a Sunday school was formed which has continued to flourish to the present time. 'There services were held regularly every alternate Sunday for many years and now are held every Sunday. In 1907, the old brick building was removed and the present peautiful brick structure was erected. The present pastor is Rev. C. C. Ryan.

Gragsy Point Christian Church

The Grassy Point Christian church was organized in 1832, by Rev. Joseph Thomas, better known as the "White Pilgrim," with thirty original members, a part of whom were: Joseph Thomas, Jr., Samuel Hornbeck, Thomas Green, Margaret Green, James Hornbeck, Catharine Messmore, Samuel Messmore, Sarah Thomas, Maria Hornbeck, Polly Carr, John Lohr and Sophronia Carr. Preaching and services were held for several years at the house of Reverend Thomas. About the year 1845, under the preaching of Rev. Joseph Thomas, Jr., a hewed-log house was erected for church purposes, in which services were held for a period of about fifteen years. The church grew in number, strength and usefulness, and about 1860 a frame building was erected and dedicated to the service of God in 1861. Rey. Joseph Thomas, the organizer, was the first minister and was followed by Enoch Harvey, James McInturf, Joseph Thomas, Jr., John Greene, Benjamin Seaver, Louis Greene, James Hornbeck, Daniel Griffin, Caleb Morse, W. N. Overturf, Jonatha Pugh, W. B. Fuller and W. N. Overturf. Since the organization of the church, there have been enrolled nearly eight hundred members. The church is situated in a fine country, and in a neighborhood of church-going people.

Fair Plain Christian Church

In 1872, under the auspices of several persons of the Christian faith, a Sunday school was organized at the Finley school house, and from that time commenced to have occasional preaching at the school house by various volunteer preachers, until, on December 13, 1875, under Rev. William Webb, a church organization was effected, consisting of the following thirteen members: R. Nagley, J. W. Prugh, W. A. Finley, D. W. Finley, John Armentrout, J. M. Bradley, S. M. Prugh, A. Nagley, R. J. Finley, N. Armentrout, °C. E. Prugh, R. Finley and S. Bradley, with J. W. Prugh as deacon. They had preaching regularly once a month, and during the year 1876 several members were added to the church. From the time of their organization they had a minister employed to preach to them once a month, with the exception of 1880, during which year they had no minister. Rev. S. A. Caris was the pastor in 1883, when the membership had fallen to twenty-one enrolled names. The church was discontinued a few years later.

Lafayette Christian Church

A Christian church was organized at Lafayette about 1843, when the following persons, under the leadership of Rev. Jesse B. Ferguson, met and organized themselves as a Christian, or Disciple, church: T. J. Shryack, Ann Minter, Joseph Rafferty and wife, William Rafferty and wife, William Foos and wife, and Nacy Marks, nine persons in all. During the year many additions were made and soon the congregation consisted of forty-three persons. Meetings were held and preaching dispensed in the school house until 1849, when a frame house was erected which served for many years. The church was quite prosperous for some time, and reached a membership of about eighty persons. The lot for the church was donated by William Minter for that purpose. The first minister was Rev. Jesse B. Ferguson, who was succeeded by James Henry, and he by Rolla Henry, after which there was no regular minister and the church began to lose its vitality. The membership decreased, the organization was abandoned, and the church building was sold in 1877, since which time there has been no organization of that denomination in Deer Creek township.

Summerford Christian Church

By Mrs. Mary Earsom Dhume. The Christian church at Summerford was formally organized on May 1, 1847, by Daniel Sommers and John Zimmerman with six members: Daniel and Rachel Sommers,

John and Martha Zimmerman and John and Judy Bradley. These members adopted the following covenant: "We, the Christian church, take no other name but the name that, was given the disciples at Antioch (Acts X1:26). We take no other discipline for our rule of faith and practice but the word of God, which we do sincerely and firmly believe to be an all-sufficient rule for all Christians to be governed by. All scripture 's given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for eonstructicon, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect and throughly furnished unto all good work."

Although the church was weak for some 'years after its organization, yet by 1850 they were able to build a house of worship. This continued in use until 1898, when preparations were made for the erection of a new building. This building was dedicated on June 4, 1899, by Rev. D. A. Long. In the summer of 1914 the church was completely remodeled and-on Thanksgiving day, 1914, was rededicated with appropriate ceremonies.

Many ministers of unusual ability have served this church during its long career. For the first two years (1847-49) Elders Daniel Sommers and John Zimmerman preached alternately in private homes and added only three members during this time. Samuel Wilson (1849-538) was the first regular pastor and not only built a church, but, what was far more important, added sixty-five members to the church roll. The pastorate of C. A. Morse (1853-56) saw the addition of thirty-five members. Daniel Griffin (1856-64) was a very effective preacher and brought one hundred and twenty-five members into the church. The two years' service (1864-66) of William S. Manville was productive of forty-two new members. The next pastor, William Overtur (1866-82), labored faithfully for sixteen years and added an average of twenty members each year, bringing in a total of three hundred and twenty new members into the fold of the church. Since 1882 the following pastors have served the church: C. L. Wingett, 1882-85; A. C. Haner, 1885-88; S. A. Cario, 1888-90; Charles Jones, 1890-91; S. F. Morris, 1891-94; S. D. Bennett, 1894-96; Hugh A. Smith, 1896-97; R. H. McDaniel, 1897-99; Mills Harrod, 1899-1900; S. M. Mill-

Since the organization of the church in 1847 about seven hundred have been enrolled as members; the present membership is one hundred and twenty-five. There are two members who united with the church during the first ten years of its career who are still living, Mrs. Jane Prugh Fauver and Mrs. Ellen Prugh Wilson. The first pastor received thirty dollars a year for his services; the present pastor is paid three hundred dollars annually and preaches every other Sunday.

It is not known when the first Sunday school was organized, but Gabriel Prugh was the first superintendent. The Christian Endeavor Society was organized under the pastorate of Reverend Bennett by Rev. H. E. Butler in 1895, and Walter B. Earsom, now deceased, was its first president. The Ladies Aid Society was organized in 1900 under the pastorate of Reverend McDaniel. It was a noteworthy fact that the first session of the conference of this district was held at Summerford on August 23-24, 1850. The minutes of that meeting make the statement that "At candle-lighting there was a sermon by Brother Ellis." he

Summerford Dunkard Church

The only Dunkard church in Madison county is located at Summerford and within the next few years it will be a thing of the past. The church was organized in 1867 and the building stood a mile and a half west of the town until 1908, when it was moved to the town. The records of the church have been lost and consequently it is impossible to furnish a list of the charter members. There are only twelve members now' living and the youngest of these is sixty-eight. Mrs. Elizabeth, aged seventy-six, is the oldest living member of the church. In the summer of 1908 the' building was-torn down and the same lumber used in rebuilding the church in Summerford, the only new material being the slate rooffing. It was rededicated in November, 1908, and since then the various ministers have served the church once a month without pay. Among these self-sacrificing pastors may be méntioned David Leatherman, Ida Miller, David Dredge, William Piper and Henry Sandy. The congregation still observes the annual foot-washing ceremony each fall. It is interesting to note the various names by which this denomination has been called.: They were first known as German Baptists, later Dunkards and still later Brethren. The old members now refer to their church as the Church of the Brethren, although they are commonly known in the community as Dunkards. No new members have been taken in for the past several years, and with the death of the few remaining members the church will be closed forever in Summerford.

Lilly Chapel, Evangelical. Lutheran Church

Lilly Chapel of the Evangelical Lutheran church was organized on Christmas day, 1880, with the following charter members: Louis Gierich, John Gierich, Charles Grassley, Henry Wise, J. F'. Schwartz, Lawrence Miller, John Manz, Michael Billman, August Kuntz and Mrs. H. Young. Two years after the church was organized, a brick house of worship was erected at a cost of thirty-six hundred dollars. Since the church has been organized the following pastors have served the congregation: _H. Peters, John Snyder, J. Weber. Reverend Kinard, J. Rumbarger, C. E. Schweikert, A. J. Hall, Reverend Stupp and G. Schmogrow. The present membership is twenty.

Dennison Chapel United Brethren Church

The Dennison Chapel United Brethren church was started about the year 1849, when a class was formed dt the old log school house which stood on the farm of-Lemueél Lawrence, with thirteen members, a few of whom were John Creath, James Dennison, W. Estep, Elizabeth Dennison, Michael Robey, Jesse Tommons, with Joseph Timmons as class leader. They had preaching every three weeks in. the old school house. Their first minister was the Rev. Jesse Bright. Subsequently, they held their meetings for awhile at the house of William Peel, who then lived on the Lawrence farm. About 1852 or 18538, they built a log house for church purposes, each person furnishing a specified number of logs. It was built on the lot on which the present church stands and was large and commodious. The church burned down in 1860, but efforts towards a new building were at once started, and in 1861, the present frame building was erected, and was dedicated, in the fall of that year, by Rev. Joseph M. Spangler, presiding elder of the Winchester district, in the Scioto conference. The church prospered and increased in membership quite rapidly under the faithful and earnest labors of Rev. William Ferguson, James Ross and others, and at one time the membership numbered over one hundred and forty. Subsequently the church declined, one among the various causes of decrease being a heavy emigration to the state of Missouri. However, the church. is still prosperous. The church building is in very good repair and presents a beautiful appearance, surrounded with its burial ground. Rev. L. L. Harris is the present pastor.

Trinity Episcopal Church Of London

The history of Trinity Episcopal church in London seems to fall into periods. As far as can be ascertained, the first prayer-book service was held in the early spring of the year 1855. In his report as rector of St. John's parish, Worthington, Ohio, printed in the journal of the diocesan convention of 1856 the Rev. Mr. Roberts includes the following: The rector has also been engaged in a missionary enterprise in the town of London, capital of Madison county, Ohio, where services have been held twice a day on the third Sunday in the month, in the Presbyterian church, corner of Fifth and Oak streets." Of-the church people resident in and about London at. this time, these first services were due to the efforts of Jonathan Farrar. At a meeting held on June 28, 1858, at his residence, South Main street, after devotions c-nducted by Rev. Mr. Robbins, a parish church was organized, called Christ Protestant Episcopal church. The. vestrymen chosen were Jonathan Farrar, Richard Cowling, Edward Cowling, Jesse .M. Dungan, Dr. U. S. Darling, B. G. Custer, Edwin Bird, James Baker and D. M. Creighton. Jonathan Farrar was chosen senior warden; Edward Cowling, junior warden, and: D. M. Creighton, treasurer. The Rev. Mr. Robbins was extended a, call and became the first rector of the newly organized church, which was incorporated on November 23, 1859. From the years 1860 to 1870 we find many familiar names: Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin. Gwynne and child, Edminston;. Mr. George Lincoln and wife, Harriet Mathews Lincoln and child, John Ashley, Mrs. George Mitchell, Mrs. Jacob Peetrey, Mrs. Georgia Kellogg Gould, Mr.. Edward J. Gould, Mrs. Sobrina Custer. (wife of Benjamin G. Custer), Mr and Mrs. John Chambers.

The church record states that in 1872, the period of revival, the chief figure still was Jonathan Farrar, a devout and unassuming churchman, whom local. prints.of the day describe as a venerable patriarch, and his fellow-laborer was Edward Cowling, also'.a devout and earnest churchman. é

In a later record we read: "Thomas J. poids was for many years BeriOn Laie: conscientiously and efficiently performing all the, requirements of. that office, zealous. in all the interests of the church." Mr. Bolds. entered into rest, July 1, 1901, having Served as a committeeman almost constantly from: his confirmation in 1877. He. had been to the church for many years what Jonathan:Farrar had been in years gone by. He provided: that his property should: eventually pass into the hands of the church committee as a permanent endowment. His wife, Francini Bryan, was equally zealous in.all that: pertained to the welfare of the church. An altar.in memory of.Mr. Bolds was given by the congregation, and a few outside friends. ,

Mr. Charles Butler was for, twenty-two years on the executive eens. while his wife, Mrs. Jane Toland Butler, was an active and energetic officer in the Ladies' Guild. Mr: and. Mrs. Butler presented to'the church a.beautiful eagle lectern .in memory of Mrs. Butler's mother, Mrs. Aquilla Toland. This lectern.was the. work of: R._ Geissler, New York City. Mr. and Mrs. S. J. Hubbard presented a handsome silver. com-. munion set. Mrs. Hubbard was made the president. of the first. ladies' guild that was organized. The ladies of this guild held a very successful entertainment, "The Centennial Tea Party," the 22d and 23d of December, 1875, the net proceeds being three hundred and twenty-five dollars. The character-of Martha Washington was taken the first day by Mrs. Walter Dun, who presided over the party; the second by Mrs. S. J. Hubbard. It is stated in the minutes of the guild that no raffling or other questionable methods were. used. In soliciting subscriptions special mention must be made of Miss Margaret Hubbard, who contributed liberally, and also rendered valuable assistance in collecting. Miss Annette Phelps, who, although for several years a teacher in Hillsboro, Columbus and Ohio Wesleyan College, now became a permanent resident of London as the bride of Hon. George Lincoln. As a proof of her loyalty to the church, Mrs.: Lincoln, left a substantial legacy. which will in time prove a very yaluable asset to the finances of Trinity church. At her death she was laid to rest in Kirkwood cemetery with the beautiful Episcopal (prayer) services by the Rev. Dr. Jacob Streibert.

general missionary for central Ohio with headquarters at Yellow Springs. On November 1 he conducted his first service, which was the first held in the community for two years, the congregation assembling in the village council chamber. On the evening of Vriday, December 10, the Right Rev. Thomas Jaggar, bishop of the newly organized diocese of southern Ohio, assisted by Rev. Mr. Ely, conducted services in the Methodist Episcopal church, and on the following day organized the present mission, giving it the name of Trinity. On February 21, 1877, Bishop Jaggar administered confirmation to the first class received in the history of the church. It was during this period that the need and the desire were felt to build this present church. The plans were made and eventually a lot was secured and a house of worship erected through the generosity of the communicants and their many friends. The largest single subscription, two hundred dollars, was given by Mrs. Baldwin Gwynne. Two subscriptions of one hundred and fifty dollars each were given by Messrs. Bolds and Charles Butler. The Rev. Mr. Bower gave one hundred dollars. Sums of fifty dollars each were subscribed by Mr. A. C. Watson, Dr. H. J. Sharp, Mrs. S. J. Hubbard and Mrs. Margaret Johnston Dooris, ~ making it possible for Trinity church to be consecrated, November 16, 1878, by the Right Rev. Bishop Jaggar, assisted by clergymen from Cincinnati, Pomeroy, Springfield, Kenyon College and New York. A very pleasant entertainment '"'The Kettle-Drum" was given, at which General Beatty made the principal address. The following responded to "toasts": Messrs. George Lincoln, John F. Locke, M. J. O'Donnell and the Rev. Mr. Patterson. During the year 1883 Mrs. Margaret Johnston Dooris presented the church with a handsomely-carved bishop's chair, the work of Mr. Henry: L. Fry, of Cincinnati; also beautiful linen for use in holy communion, embroidered by her daughter. On Easter Sunday the Rev. J. Mills Kendrick, bishop of New Mexico and Arizona, consecrated a baptismal font presented by Dr. and Mrs. H. J. Sharp in memory of their children, Rena and Madaline. An oak chancel rail, constructed by Mr. Edward Gould and paid for by funds raised by Miss Jennie Hubbard (Mrs. Xerxes Farrar), Etta Peetrey (Mrs. Gideon Clark), and Mrs. Effie Custer Rankin (Mrs. Harford Rankin) was an added improvement, and was greatly appreciated. The vestry room was furnished by Mr. and Mrs. John Pancake, consisting of a walnut wardrobe, mirror, toilet set and linen towels. Mrs. Pancake was always thoughtful for the comfort of others. They also gave a set of fine altar linen. The Misses Mary and Florence Thomas presented violet hangings to adorn the chancel from J. and R. Lamb, New York. Other helpful communicants at that time were Col. H. H. Prettyman and wife, Mrs. May B. Prettyman (Morse), who gave most valuable and pecuniary assistance. Both have served very efficiently on the church committee. Among other gifts made were an altarrail, in memory of Algiers C. Watson, whose fidelity is recorded. Also a brass altar cross, in memory of Robert Pierre Edwards, whose beautiful young life was lost to the church. An altar prayer book was given by the Misses Margaret and Sallie Dooris, in memory of their sister, Mrs. Alice Dooris Thomas. It is a joy to have gleaned the following from the church record of the. special mention of Mrs. John Farrar, the secretary and treasurer of the united offering, as written by the rector: "The writer desires to record his appreciation and that of the church, of not only this but many other of her good works, and to record, in a way, many others still of which the mission, though directly or indirectly the beneficiary, has no knowledge." Mrs. Farrar at the present time still retains the same office, is vitally interested in its welfare and is reverently designated the mother of our church. Mrs. Ida Farrar Porter, who was a faithful communicant, "entered into rest" on September 27, 1908. She was especially interested and unceasing in her efforts in behalf of the young people, ever seeking to inculcate in them a spirit of reverence for the church and all things pertaining thereto. She longed for its growth and upbuilding, and left a perpetual endowment, which has increased in value and is a present aid to the church. Special mention is made of Mr. Noah Thomas who, ee an unconfirmed member, served for two years aS a committeeman, and gave oes voice and presence to the services, aiding much thereby, which was greatly appreciated.

Mrs. Catalina Bail, one of our older communicants, made a beautiful gift of brass altar vases, and also gave generously to the needs of the Sunday school. The Misses Margaret and Sallie Dooris are ever zealous in the progr'ss and growth of the church, Miss Sallie being the organist and has the supervision of the Sunday school, which sends annually, a generous offering for missions.

Mrs. Shields has for many years shared these duties. Mrs. Guy Underwood, during her residence, has accomplished much and given her voice in the music which forms such an important part in the services. Mrs. May M. Rowland, the president of the woman's auxiliary, with the aid of the members, has done good work in making and sending boxes of clothing and assisting in other ways smaller and needy missions. The writer has not given the names of the officiating clergymen, as the record seems to show only a succession of activity, change and apathy, and for lack of space has omitted the hames of many persons who were ardent in the work of the church during their limited residence in London. The Rey. Dr. Jacob Streibert of Kenyon College, came for services continuously each Sabbath for some years, and has an abiding interest in Trinity church, making many lasting friendships both amongst his parishioners and citizens. For years Doctor Streibert celebrated holy communion monthly, while Mr. Frank Nelson, lay reader, conducted services the remaining three Sabbaths. His untiring energy and conscientious ability were greatly appreciated. Mr. and Mrs. Nelson, their family and Miss Gertrude Dun entwined themselves into all hearts. Mr. Nelson felt with his many duties he had not the time needed for the growth of the church and urged that we have a resident priest. Mr. and Mrs. Nelson presented in loving memory of the mother of each, a most beautiful and exquisitely embroidered altar cloth, the design being the passion vine. A resident priest was appointed in the person of Rev. Charles K. Oswald, who was followed by the present rector, Rev. C. C. Schmeiser. The outlook for the future is most encouraging. Theodore Irving Reese, D. D., bishop, with Mr. John Pancake, senior warden and treasurer, faithful and efficient in all duties pertaining to the church, purchased the beautiful lot, corner of Main and Fifth streets, to which the church. was moved in the summer of 1915 and improved to the extent of several hundred dollars. There are at present one hundred and four communicant members.

Dun Lawn Episcopal Church

The lot upon which this church was built was given or leased by Mrs. Mary A. Thurman for the purpose of a church which should be open and free for all denominations in which to worship. It was deeded in trust to D. W. C. Sawyer, Walter A. Dun and Robert G. Dun, the lease to be perpetual as long as the church remained in use for the specified purpose. In 1858, a neat frame building was erected by the following persons: Jolin G. Dun, James Dun, R. G. Dun, D. W. C. Sawyer, W. A. Dun, Mrs. Mary A. Thurman and Mrs. Nathaniel Sawyer, and the first minister who preached there Reverend Finley, of London. The church stood in the extreme northern part of Deer Creek township on the Urbana, Mechanicsburg and Jefferson pike. Services in - this church have long been discontinued. The Protestant Episcopal church came to have control of it about 1885, and for a time it was served by the pastor of the London church, services having been held in the church up to June, 1890.

Antioch Mission Union Church Of West Jefferson

The Antioch Mission Union church began its work on the streets of West Jefferson in October, 1907. In. November of that year, the weather becoming too cold for street work, the old colored church was obtained for the repairing. After giving it a good cleaning - it had been unoccupied - repairing the roof and putting in new window lights, a four weeks' revival was held, during which more than one hundred came to the altar at the call of Rey. Mrs. Jenny Lind and professed their faith in God. After the revival the old church was rented at the cost of four dollars a month and there services were held until June 1, 1910. At the first preaching service of this mission there were but six present ; at the second meeting there were ten; at the third, twenty-five. The first Sunday night of the revival mentioned above the old church was crowded to its doors. On moving into the old church building a Sunday school. was organized and fifty children were there to enroll on the first day. In 1910 a campaign was started for the building of a church. This campaign was very successful and on June 26, 1910, the new mission house, to be known as Antioch. mission, was dedicated to the services of God. This building is a comfortable, neat, frame structure, thirty-six by sixty feet, with a seating capacity' of about five hundred people. The material in the building cost about two thousand dollars, and nearly all the labor of construction was donated. This debt was all paid off within sixteen months.

There are at present two hundred and sixty-eight members of the mission. There are one hundred and sixteen names enrolled on .the cradle roll, and one hundred and seventy-five enrolled in the Sunday school. The Sunday school is conducted by a superintendent, a treasurer and nine teachers, Elmer Rhodes being the superintendent. Since the dedication of the church, a primary room has been added to the building, at a cost of a little over three hundred dollars; also a vestibule at the front of the building, which cost one hundred and sixty-five dollars. The church recently has been papered and the interior varnished, and now presents a very pleasing interior. The secret of the great success of the mission has been the great zeal and interest manifested by its leaders. No officer - from the preacher to the janitor - receives even the smallest salary. Rev. Mrs. Jennie Lind, the founder and the leader of the mission, has been faithful to her call for nearly seven years and her mission is steadily growing in numbers and_ strength. . "yp

Union Church At Amity

About 1866-67, by the combined efforts of the citizens of that community, led by Rev. George Hathaway, who labored diligently, a sufficient sum of money was raised, a good, comfortable, frame building was erected and a: union church was organized at Amity, the same being dedicated to service the 'year in which it was built. The building remained a 'union' church, in which various denominations held services, and where at one time a union organization was maintained for many years. The building stiJl stands, in a very dilapidated condition. There have been no services held in it since, 1910. hy | ; ar

Rosedale Union Church

The Union church at Rosedale was first started, it is thought, about twenty-five years, ago, the lot on which the building is erected having been donated by Charles Phellis. It was built originally as a "union" church, but was in the. hands of the Methodists for many years and was on the same circuit as Irwin, Milford Center and Lewis Chapel. The church is without a regular pastor at present, Rev. Frank Tooton having been the last who served the congregation. A Sunday school is maintained, of which M. E., Thomas is the superintendent. The trustees of the church are Mrs.. Lily McCarty, Eugene Thomas, Lewis Burnham, Pearl Stoddard and Charles P. Guy.

The absence of records or any other documentary sources makes it impossible to State with any degree of accuracy the date of the first Catholic services that were held in London, or the names of the persons participating. The building of the Columbus & Xenia railroad through London took place during the years 1848-49, and about that time several Catholic families located in this neighborhood. From scattered sources there seems to be positive assurance that mass was first celebrated in London in the year 1849, and though there is much room for doubt, there is reasonable data to establish the fact that Father Kelliher is the one to whom that honor belongs. However, it should not be forgotten that there is respectable authority for the statement that Father Borgess, later bishop of Detroit, preceded Father Kelliher.

The workmen engaged in the construction of the railroad mentioned above, as was common in those days, lived in camps or sought lodging accommodations where most convenient. At that time a man of the name of McGuire kept a boarding house in what is now commonly known as "The Porch" property, corner of Second and Walnut streets, and it seems to have been in that dingy dwelling that the first mass was celebrated in London, with the few Irishmen and their families assisting.

This service was participated in thereafter, at intervals of three months, from 1849 to 1851. In the latter year the Catholic population increased so rapidly that the attention of Father Maurice Howard, of Springfield, was arrested, and he was awakened to the necessity of making more generous and regular provision for the spiritual wants of the newcomers. During the four or five following years mass was read monthly, and the sacraments administered as occasion demanded in different private dwellings; but most frequently, according to tradition, in the home of Thomas Singleton. Early in 1852, among the families residing in the town and neighborhood were John Dwyer and family, Philip Lackey and family, Thomas Singleton and family, Michael McCarty and family, Edward Donahue and family, Daniel Graham and family, John Fogerty and family, Thomas Kennally and taraily aoa tetck Masterson and family and James McCarty and family.

During the two years, 1851-52, Father Maurice Howard had undivided supervision of this mission. From 1852 to 1856, Father Thomas Blake, of Xenia, attended to the duties connected therewith, and was assisted at various times by Fathers J. N. Thisse and D. J. Cogan, both of Springfield. After the building of the Phifer House, on the corner of Main and High streets, mass was celebrated in the Phifer House hall until 1856, in. which year a lot was purchased on Center street, near Main, and a small frame church was erected thereon, the same being dedicated in the 'fall of that 'year. This modest edifice was used as a house of worship in St. a parish until the completion of the second church building, in 1866.

On Christmas Day, 1864, Rev. Father John M. Conway became the first resident priest of the London parish: Father Conway was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, in 1842. At the age of nine he accompanied his parents to this country, the family settling at Blanchester, Clinton county, Ohio. After some years spent in the local school, in 1856 he entered the seminary to prepare himself for the priesthood. Father Conway, as report has it, was 'well equipped mentally, and after a brilliant course was on the 17th of December, 1864, ordained and was immediately assigned to London. His first mass was celebrated in the frame building on Center street, which at that time was in a rapidly decaying condition. He at once set himself resolutely to the task of securing a location and erecting a church in a more central part of town, and as a result of his labor, soon 'was able to build, on the site of the present church, 'an edifice more in keeping with the time in which he lived. The ground on which this building stood and upon which the present beautiful church stands, situated on the corner of Second and Union streets, was purchased of James Dwyer and building was begun in the summer of 1865: The charch was of Gothic atyie of architecture, one hundred feet in length by fifty feet in width, with a thirty-eight-foot ceiling; at the west end was a gallery for the choir and organ, extending the whole width of the building; 'the tower was one hundred and ten feet in height, slated at the top, and the windows were twelve feet high, filled with beautiful and costly stained glass. The cost of this building, with organ and bell, was twenty-two thousand dollars. In its day it was the largest church in the county and would seat about one thousand persons.

The cornerstone of this edifice was laid on September 17, 1865. Bishop Sylvester H. Rosecrans delivered an explanatory discourse on the Catholic faith, immediately after which he administered confirmation to about fifty persons. A small tin box, containing the date of the ceremonies, the names of the bishop, pastor and other facts relating to the church, was deposited in the cornerstone. The building was dedicated by Archbishop John B. Purcell on Sunday, November 18, 1866. Many visitors came from the neighboring cities, and at eleven o'clock a grand procession was formed at the old church, headed by a Columbus band, and proceeded to the new church. It was impossible for one-half of the crowd to get within the walls of the building. The archbishop delivered a short discourse outdoors, after which the crowd was admitted inside. The building was not yet seated, but it was supposed that fifteen hundred persons were admitted. The music on the occasion was furnished by the choir of St. Patrick's church of Columbus. The following church dignitaries were in attendance 'from abroad: Archbishop John B. Purcell, from Cincinnati; Rev. Father Edward Fitzgerald, of Columbus; Rev. Father Joseph Retcker, D. D., Mt. St. Mary's Seminary, Cincinnati; Rev. Father Thomas Blake, of Xenia, and Rev. Father J. N. Thisse, of Springfield.

Never of a rugged constitution, Father Conway, in 1877, was compelled to seek restoration of his health in a more congenial climate and went to California. His health rapidly improved and. in a short time he was assigned to a parish in the distant West. His efforts permanently to regain his health were not rewarded, however, and he died in California and was buried on the 13th of August, 1896, from the church he built in London, his first love.

In a short sketch of his life from the pen of the Rev. Father P. H. Cusack the following is found: ''When we consider the almost impassable condition of the roads of Madison county during the first years of Father Conway's labors, the long distances he had to journey by day and by night to visit the sick and the dying, the slender resources on which he had to draw, and that his work was done almost single-handed, we marvel at his courage and perseverance."

Rev. Father John Conway was pastor of St. Patrick's church from Christmas, 1864, until June, 1877, his assistants having been the Rev. Fathers J. Maroney and Rowekamp. During Father Conway's absence from the church while in Europe, the. priests of St. Patrick's church were the Rev. Fathers P. H. Cusack, J. J. Kennedy and B. F. Mueller. Rev. Father Michael Hayes served from June, 1877, until August, 1878. Rev. Father James Burns, from August, 1878, until January, 1881, with assistants, Fathers Michael Hayes and Charles McCallion. From January to October, 1881, Rev. Father Brummer. Rev. Father Clement M. Berding, October, 1881, until 1884; assistant, Rev. Father James O'Kieffe. Rev. Father William D. Hickey, 1884 until 1891. Rey. Father Francis M. Wimsey, 1891 until 1894; assistants, Fathers Shea and Denning. Rev. Father Patrick Cusack, 1894 until 1906; assistants, Rev. Fathers Connelly, William Clark, Cotter and Dennis M. Halpin. Rev. Father Abraham McNamara took charge on January 1, 1906, and is the présent priest.

During the interim intervening between the pastorate of Father Conway and the advent of Father McNamara, in 1906, scarcely any improvement was made on the property of the church; the property of the parish bore approximately the same relation to the times as it did upon the arrival of Father Conway. To the remedy of these conditions Father McNamara devoted years of industry, energy and perseverance which bore fruit in the present becoming, modern and beautiful structure at a total cost, in money, of the sum of forty-six thousand eight hundred and sixty-three dollars and sixty-two cents. For the purpose of liquidating this indebtedness, the regular monthly collection was established, and the generosity of the parishioners and of Father McNamara is manifested in the fact that at present this debt is very small, and the day is not far distant when the people of the congregation may proudiy boast that they owe no man anything but their love.

Rev. Abraham McNamara, the pastor of St. Patrick's, was born in Belfast, Ireland, and was one of a large family of children, seven of whom are still living. His father, James McNamara, was a prosperous and successful linen merchant in the city of Belfast.

At the age of ten Abraham McNamara entered St. Michael's Seminary, afterwards pursuing his studies in St. Colman's Seminary, County Down. When seventeen years of age he entered the Grand Seminary of France and completed his studies at St. John's in Waterford, Ireland. Thus receiving a brilliant and classical education, he was ordained to the priesthood at the early age of twenty-three. After serving as pastor of different churches in Ireland, Father McNamara crossed the Atlantic to America, coming to archdiocese of Cincinnati, and has been: priest at Urbana, Dayton and Eaton parishes; on January 1, 1906, he eame to London.

The old brick church of St. Patrick's is now no more; a glance at the exterior reveals to the eye a perfect stone structure; as its stands today, the church is one hundred and twenty-five feet long, fifty feet wide and the tall spire, surmounted by a gold cross, is one hundred and fifty feet high. Built in pure Gothic style of the fourteenth century, it is a triumph of architectural and decorative art, this style of architecture being carried out in the interior even to the smallest detail.

On entering the church the eye rests first on the beautiful and costly sanctuary lamp, then to the marble main altar, with its two adoring angels, up to the transept window on which is seen the ecclesiastical dove and on higher to the matchless gold ceiling.

The interior decorations are dignified warm tones of French Caen stone, worked out by hand, deeply carved in Gothic detail, the artist having followed the grape-leaf and fruit motif, typical of the antique school. The band above the Carrara marble wainscot is worked out in purples, grays and gold, while a fitting climax of color is found in the treatment of the sanctuary. The entire ceiling of the sanctuary and side altars is laid in gold leaf and glazed over in gold mosaic effect, giving that beauty and richness to the dull gold only obtainable by this method of treatment. Below the gold mosaic and extending to the floor is worked out a soft velvet hanging in royal blue, giving a beautiful background to the altars. The two side altars are similar in design and appearance to that of the main altar and standing out in relief on one is the Annunciation nnd the Visitation. while on the other is the Flight into Egypt and the Home of the Holy Family; each altar's tabernacle door of gold has the chalice and Sacred Host, which can be plainly seen throughout the church.

The sanctuary is approached by three steps and the marble-like floor is old rose in color. Across the front is the massive sanctuary rail with pillars of onyx, and tastefully carved on the entire rail, in relief, are the emblems of the Holy Eucharist, namely, sheaves of wheat and bunches of grapes. The pews are all new, oak, Gothic in design, golden green in color, a color which is rare and costly; the confessionals are of the same material and color.

Sacred Heart in the sanctuary; in niches on the wall statues of St. Anthony and St. Aloysius, while in the arch beneath the winding stairs to the gallery is the lovely Pieta. The stations of the cross, representing the journey of Christ to Calvary are done in statuary work.

It is seldom that in a town the size of London such lovely decorative work is seen, The weekday chapel, frescoed in chaste designs, and two sacristies, are in the rear of the church. Not only has Father McNamara remodeled the church, but he has also built a handsome pastoral residence of pressed brick, renaissance in architecture, containing fourteen rooms, finished in quartered oak, and up to date in all its departments.

Since his arrival in London, Father McNamara labored with unremitting and indefatigable energy until at last he had the great satisfaction of seeing his efforts crowned with complete success, when the church was consecrated to God on April 28, 1911.

Although the settlement of Catholics between Columbus and Springfield dates quite early, the communicants of this faith were very sparse in number for a long time. However, about every three months they were visited by different clergymen, who held services in the respective dwellings of the members, and subsequently in the town hall of Jefferson. In this manner was Catholicism nursed in its infancy in Jefferson township, but not until about the year 1864 was the subject of a church edifice agitated, when Rey. John M. Conway took the matter in charge. Soon afterward a subscription was begun and was well patronized. In 1866, Edward Buck donated a lot for the church, and in the spring of 1867 the foundation was begun and the cornerstone was laid on May 19, of the same year, by the Rt. Rev. Sylvester H. Rosecrans, bishop of Columbus, Ohio. The building is of brick and was completed to the tower under the management of Father Conway. It was dedicated by Bishop Edward Fitzgerald, of Little Rock, Arkansas, October 31, 1869, and was later served by the Revs. F. McGrath, J. M. Thisse, J. A. Burns, H. Kiffmeyer and W. F. O'Rourke, under the supervision of Father Conway, but in March of 1873, Rev. B. M. Miiller took charge and continued to serve the church for many years. In the meantime the standing debt had been released, and, during 1879, a tower and belfry, ninéty-one feet in height, was erected and furnished with a bell of one thousand two hundred and thirty-four pounds, at a total cost, building and all, of about seven thousand dollars. Since Father Miller's time there have been several changes in the pastoral direction of the parish. Rev. M. E. Heintz was in charge in 1904. He was succeeded by Father Dickhouse and he in turn by the present priest, Father Russell. The parsonage was built during the pastorate of Father Heintz, at a cost of about four thousand dollars.