De Witt County, Illinois - Chapter 14: Ecclesia Tic. I L Iiistor Y, 1882 (part 1 of 2)

By Rev. J. C. Kucker

JHE Indian tribes, fifty years ago, matJe their trails, and wild beasts prowled through woods and prairies, when numerous swamps and swelling waters overflowed nearly all the entire country ; when pestilenlial malaria prostrated almost every family; when snows and storms of unparalleled depth and severity made the winters desolate and formidable to a degree before and since unknown, so that starvation was at the door of every settler ; even then a few Methodist people met to worship God in their cabins, and Methodist preachers went to and from in the wilderness, "' seeking the lost sheep of the house of Israel." The preachers, were men of strong common sense, earnest convictions, and such ready utterance as to command attention wherever they held divine service. Their appointments were commonly from twelve to twenty miles apart, and they usuall}- preached every day in the week, except Monday. Their circuits were often hundreds of miles around them, and were travelled every four weeks. Rarely have people had as their first pa.stors, ministers of greater moral force to draw the hearers, and mould the minds of men to Christian truth and life, and few pulpit orators since have surpassed the founders of Methodism in De Witt county in subduing argument and cultivating eloquence. Peter Cartwright, John Sinclair, S. W. D. Chase, Norman Allyn, and Peter Akers, and others, as leaders in great religions movements, were the peers of any ministers east or west in this broad country: they carried the signs of true apostolical successors, " in journeyings often ; in perils of waters ; in perils of robbers ; in perils by the heathen ; in perils by their own countrymen ; in weariness and painfulness; in hunger; in cold and nakedness, besides that which came upon them daily, the care of all the churches."

Let us now give the names of some of those pioneer settlers who took lessons from such pastors, and those who have known them during the past half century can realize, many of them were worthy of their teachers, and have been solid foundation stones in the Christian temple in this county.

Judge William Lowry, an aged Methodist with a large family emigrated from Kentucky, and stopping a while in Edgar county in this state, came and settled on the south side of Salt creek timber, one and a half miles etfst of the present town of Kenney, in 1829. That year, at the Mt. Carmel Conference, Illinois Conference was organized ; Rev. W. L. Deneen, an effective and promising young man, was appointed to " Salt creek circuit," embracing all the country now included in Menard, Logan, Macon, and De Witt counties, and all of Sangamon county, north of Sangamon river. Mr. Deneen organized the first Society in De Witt county, at the house of Judge Lowry. The members were William Lowry and wife, and two sons and three daughters: Reuben, Frank, Cecilia, Nancy and Eliza Lowry. Thomas Alsop and wife, widow Alsop and daughter, James Kenney and wife, ana son. Daniel Newcomb and wife, his father and sisters Elizabeth and Hannah, were added to the infant church.

In the fall of 18.31, Gd. Andrew Wallace, from Bourbon county, Kentucky, came and settled four miles north-west of Lowry 's, on the north of Salt creek ; and in 1832, the Colonel's wife and daughter, now widow Hickman, united with the church ; in 18.36, Joseph Howard and wife, and Reuben Thornley and wife, Rachel Howard, and Mary Wallace, now widow Reddick, of Clinton. This Society made quite a creditable beginning for Methodist history in the county.

The preaching place continued at Judge Lowry's for several years ; also at Daniel Newcome's ; then it was removed to Joseph Howard'.s house where it remained for eighteen years. Col. Wallace's house was also a place of worship for a long period. Though the Col. was not a church member, he was one of nature's noblemen. The preacher in those days held closed door classmeetings after preaching and as many of the congregation like himself were turned out of doors during class hour, he good humoredly said he would not stand it ; and he built another room for himself and brother outsiders to have accomodations also on class meeting occasions.

After the first years' hardships passed social life was greatly relished and cultivated in home circles ; and plenteous tables were covered with luscious refreshments. The houses where preaching was held often entertained at those tables ten, twenty atid even fifty at a time. No famed Virginia hospitality ever surpassed in generous abundance, so often furnished, to so many who worshiped at those private houses. Mrs. Heta Wallace wife of the Colonel prepared one of these tables ; she is still living at the age of 91.

Hurly and wife, Richard Kirby and wife, Clmrles McCone aud wife, and some of tiie Huddlejton and Clearwater family, John Weedman and wife ; all of these had large families who afterward united with the church. About the same year societies were formed on Xorth fork of Salt Creek at Brittons at Isaac Swishers and in Texas township, but at the last named place Methodism did not succeed very well aud is the only township in the county where it has no representation.

After five years the name of Salt Creek Circuit was changed and called "Athens Circuit"' after a small town in Sangamon county containing the parsonage : Abraham Lincoln lived there in those days. Clinton Circuit was formed in 1839. The same year De Witt county was organized and Clinton was made the county seat when there were only twelve families in the town, and of these a small Methodist society was formed by Rev. Gabriel Watt. John J. McGraw was the circuit clerk and his office in the old frame court-house was the preaching place. The first board of official members of Clinton Circuit were Reuben Thornley, Joseph Howard, Samuel H. Martin, Nicolas Moore, Woodford Taylor, Wm. Cottingham and John Clark, Joseph Howard and S. H. Martin were licensed to preach at the first quarterly conference of that year.

In 18.35 Hurly's Grove formed a part of Marion mis>ion and had Rev. John C. French for their pastor, and at their first quarterly conference had twelve local preachers, nine stewards, and thirteen class leaders besides the preacher in charge on the official list, and of those in thii county were Paxton Cummins, Gabriel Watt, Dudlev Richards, Charles McCone, Benjamin Day, George Lemons, Wm. McPherson (who afterward joined the Baptists), and Richard Kirby. Three years after Clinton Circuit was formed twenty-four members of the quarterly conference were in attendance. Quarterly meetings in those times were seasons of great religious interest, drawing official and private members together from a distance of twenty, forty and sixty miles. The business was performed with order and dispatch ; but temporal business was not then the main object of those assemblages. The presence of the Presiding Elder was utilized by all in attendance. The other preachers drew inspiration from his superior wisdom and deeper experience in spiritual realities. His presence became a magnetic stiraulent. His preaching was "not in word only but in power and in the Holy Ghost and in much assurance." The preachers and elders then could truly say " silver and gold have I none but such as I have give I unto thee," and many were those whose " feet and ancle bones received strength" and leaping up went through those humble temples " walking and leaping and praising God."

The Pastors and presiding Elders for the first ten years were in 1829, AV. L. Deneen; 1830 A. S Phelps; 1831 Wilson Pitner ; 183- Levi Springer; 1833 Jas. H. Dickens, Emanuel Metcalf ; 1834-5 Moses Clampet, S. P. Burr; 1836 Richard Bird, Moses Wood; 1837 Levi Springer; 1S38 David Colilsour; 1839 Gabriel Watt. And those on Marion mission were 1835 John C. French; 1836 Richard W. Clark 1837 Paxton Cummins ; 1838-9 Horace Maynard, Peter Cartwright, John Sinclair, and S. W. D. Chase, served in the Eldership.

The first parsonage was built at Hurly Grove in 1838, of logs and only one room, John Weedman and Richard Kirby donated five acres of ground for the use of the parsonage. The first fleeting house was built in 1843 at Hurly's Grove. Dennis Hurlv, John Weedman, R. Kirby, John Danner, William McCone, James W. McCone and John Day were the trustees. The first camp meeting was held near Col. Wallace's in 1832.

Camp meetings were soon held at AVaynesville and Marion and in 1840 the camp ground was located for eighteen years at Hurly's Grove and was greatly successful.

The gifted but eccentric Dr. Goddard's preaching produced extraordinary emotions among the multitudes in attendance, continuing for two weeks. In 18 18, J. C Rucker and W. J. Xewman. One hundred additions were made to the church on the circuit this year, and first Methodist church built in Clinton. 1849, A. D.jncarlos ; 18-50, Wm. Hiudall and T. A. Eaton ; 1851, W. Hindall ; 1852, W. E Johnson ; 1853-4, G. Garner. The Elders presiding during these fourteen years were P. Akers, W. D. R. Trotter, P. Cartwight, John S. Barger, C. D. James and H. Buck.

Clinton M. E. Church

About 1851, '52 the Illinois Central Railway was completed to Clinton, and a large increase of population soon followed ; and in this way considerable additions were made to the membership of this church by letter. So much, that in 1855 the church here became self-supporting, and a Station was organized securing the services of a minister every Sabbath. The Station ministers were in 1855, '56, A. Semple ; 1857, '58, Wm. McElfresh ; 1859, J. Montgomery ; 1860, '61, James Shaw; 1862, '63, Preston Wood; 1864, A. S. McCoy; 1865, W. H. H. Moore; 1866, W.H.H. M)ore, H. Buck, J. C. Rucker, C.ArnoU. Resignations that year being unusually hi order. From February and through the month of March during this year, extensive revival influences pervaded the Methodist and Presbyterian churches.

In the winter of 1863, a crusade was made on Clinton by the advocates of modern spiritism. For several months some of their ablest lecturers devoted their energies to establish that system in this community. Public curiosity become awakened. Large numbers nightly paid entrance fee to hear their addresses and witness their "seances." They affirmed their system was a needed substitute for the Bible and Christianity, and challenged all clergymen for controversy ; the ministers in the city declining, about twenty citizens sent a request to the writer of this article to meet one of the spirit champions in debate, which the writer did, for three days in the court-house. Rev. Mr. Franklin, of Cincinnati; Rev. D. P. Bunn, of Decatur; Rev. Reuben Andrews, of Bloomington ; and Rev. John S. Barger were present, and lent their moral support to the writer during the discussion. On the last day au incident occurred in the debate that revealed to all the true " inwardness " of that system. The Spiritualist had said the divorce laws of Moses were '' immoral and cruel, lie," as he had it; "whenever a husband felt like abandoning his wife, by that law he was only required to give her a little bit of writing called a bill of divorcement, and then send her adrift." His opponent in replying to this charge said, " Spiritualism in such cases did not require any notice at all to be given the wife. If a believer in Spiritualism falls in love with another woman it permits him to send his wife adrift, and take another woman to his embrace, without notice or excuse whatever." At this, the Spiritualist became greatly excited, and rising to his feet lustily exclaimed, " no personalities here. You shall not insult," &c. For a while neither moderators nor audience knew what was hurting him The cause was, he had cast away his wife and taken up with a woman, who was then sitting near him in the room. He seemed after this retort to be disabled, for his thoughts only rambled till the debate closed that afternoon. He left town next day, and advocates of that system have not had an audience in ClLntoD since.

In 1867, Kev. S- S. Meginnis, a young man of uncommon force of character, was appninted to Clinton station and continued for three years; and while he was not a first-clas? preacher, he had superior abilities in administration. He was able to awaken an interest in church building till then not dreamed of by the people he was serving. A ten or twelve thousand dcjllar house of worship had been talked of fur several years, and 3Ir. Meginnis managed to enlist all classes of citizens so strongly for the enterprise that many were provoked to good works," and a generous desire to exceed in liberality pervaded the community.

The plans were made, and the present elaborate and beautiful edifice was erected, and the basement was opened for religious services during Mr. Meginnis' pastoral term ; costing when completed 832,000. After serving four years as Presiding Elder of Mattoou district Mr. Meginnis died, lamented by all who knew him best. His monument is the church in Clinton.

Kev. R. X. Birnes succeeded Mr. Meginnis in 1870; he remained two years. He pushed forward the work of hispredeces sor till the audience-room and towers were finished, and the entire building stood out a gem of architectural richness and beauty for some months ; and then a storm of wind prostrated the main tower, which was 180 feet high. In 1872, Rev. W. H. H. Adams was placed in charge, and for three years he had perhapmore attentive listeners than any minister who had preceded him in Clinton. With a wide range of thought and conciseness in stating his views, he had an easy elegance in language and manner thatwas unusually attractive and proved him worthy of any pulpit, even in metropolitan cities. Dr. Adams is now the esteemed President of Illinois Wtsleyan University. Dr. H. Buck having dedicated the basement in 1870. Rev. Dr. Ives, of Xew York, asisted by Rev. Bishop Bowman, of St. Louis, made the last dedication December 20lh, 1874. In 1875, '76, '77, G. W. Gray; 1878, James Leaton ; 1879, A. Semple ; 1880. W. Stevenson, served as pastors. During Dr. Gray's term a considerable religious interest was awakened in his congregation in his first year, and in 1877 he contributed largely to the success of the cause of temperance in the city and county. This year, the "tidal-wave" of temperance spread over every State in the Union. In 1881, Mr. Stevenson's removing in May his vacancy was supplied by Rev. G. W. Henning, and in September he was reappointed.

W.Wn'Esville 31. E. Chukch

Waynesville circuit was formed over furty years ago, and has not had its name changed. Rev. John Sinclair and Zadok Hall organized the first Methodist society in Waynesville, in 18S4; in a few years considerable additions were made to their numbers ; camp-meetings were held near by. Sinclair Cartwright, Chase Trotter, Barger James, R. E. Guthrue and G. Rutledge, were, consecutively, presiding elders of Waynesville charge. Pastors also served them year after year, till in 1S47, a board of trustees was elected. A commodious brick church was erected in 1S49 by the active management of the Rev. Wm. Hindall, then pastor. Methodism was a strong force about this period ; but the rising town of Atlanta, on the Chicago and St. Louis railroad, drew away so many business men and Methodists from Waynesville, the church declined in its strength materially with the town. Linus Graves, J. R. Doolittle, the Elder, Mr. Sampson, Col. Gambrel, Harry Maltby, and others once valuable workers for the church here, removed or <lied ; and now the aged Mrs. Gambrel and Mrs. Miles, and one or two others, remain as relics of former years ; and the old records disappearing, only the last twenty-five years can be stated of the historic life of this church. In 1857, A. Simple ; 1S58, W. R. Howard ; 18.59, J C. Rucker, G. H. Adams ; 1860 and '61, W. R. Howard. Under his labors, three new churches were erected on the circuit. In 1802 and '6>!, .LC. Rucker; 186.'), J. W. Warfield ; 1866 and '67, B. Barthlow; 1868, Samuel H. Pendleton; also 18'i9 and "70, among the other ministers were S. Middleton, B. F. Hyde and Dr. Lapham ; 1871, V. Randolph; and in 1880, Henry Adams, who was reappointed in 1881. Rev. S. H. Pendleton was converted and learnfd to preach at AVaynesville, and nas so well fsteeuifd for his piety and gifts, that the Waynesville people welcomed him to the charge of the circuit the first three years of his ministry. He afterwards removed to Kansas, and is now a presiding elder in one of its conferences.

Mt. Tabor M. E. Chif.Ch

This society worshipped in a school-house for a number of years. Its leading members were Wiley Marvel and sons, with their families ; John Barr and family, John Humphrey; Joshua Humphrey and Jos. Leonard, and some others. By the activity of the Rev. W. R. Howard, a neat house of worship was erected in 1861 and '62, and while the writer was pastor, the year after, a meeting was held, when a number of young men embraced religion ; two of whom became earnest ministers of the gospel in Illinois C'pnfereuce, one transferred to Iowa, and the other, I think, to Tennessee conference. The venerable Wiley Marvel is perhaps the oldest Methodist in De Witt county, and his sister, Mrs. Gambrel, relic of Col. Gambrel the oldest Methodist lady. Mr. Wiley has, all his years in the church, been a model Christian ; combining deep piety with cheerful moderation, being plentiful in good works.

Kenney M. E. Church

Was organized mostly of members formerly composing the Pleasant Valley Society. Under the pastorate of Rev. Wm. B. Howard, a comfortable house of worship was erected by the Pleasant Valley members in 1S61. Rev. Joseph Howard and Wm. Humphrey contributed largely to this enterprise ; but when the town of Kenney had been established several years, it was thought prudent (as the church was three miles distant) to remove it to Kenney, which was done in 1875. Kenney was connected awhile with Chestnut, in Logan, and with Maroa, in Macon county ; but at present with the Waynesville circuit. The pastors have been, in 1874, Robert Stephens ; 1875, W. A.

In August, 1878, Rev. Joseph Howard, a member of this church, died at the advanced age of eighty-one years. He removed from Ohio to this county in 1834, and took his share of the privations, and did his part in the labors of the early settlers. During his entire life he was known as possessing sterling worth as a citizen and Christian gentleman, and as a wise counsellor on questions of county and ecclesiastical policy in several relations. His funeral discourse was by Rev. Dr. Buck. Many public men of the county attended the funeral services at Kenney.

In the winter of 1881, Rev. Henry Adams had a very profitable series of meetings in Kenney. By his fervent ministry the membership of the church was doubled, and a marked moral improvement has pervaded the general community since that meeting. Dr. Adams is the son of Rev. H. C. Adams, of Clinton, who was one of the most successful evangelists in the county for about forty years. Though now near seventy years of age, his mental activity and snap has not abated. The incidents connected with his life would make a book of attractive interest. The membership at Kenney numbers about eighty. There is also a prosperous Sabbath-school.

Green Valley Society

Was organized by Rev. Rnbert Stevens in 1874. Under his labors, a handsome church was erected about half way between Clinton and Waynesville. The membership is small. John Pollock and Wm. Armstrong, and their families, have been active supporters of religion in this society, a few others co-operating. This society forms part of Waynesville circuit. Mt. Tabor and Green Valley, and Kenney, have the same pastor, and have prepching every two weeks. The presiding elders lately serving on Waynesvile circuit have been M. Buck, W. S. Prentice, P. Wood, C. \V. C Munsell and W. N. McElroy.

Wapella began wheu the Illinois Central Railroad was completed. Among the first Methodists located there were Thomas Loar, James Stone, Henry Morrison, the elder Mr. Martin, and Williams, and JNIrs. Gates; afterwards James Willis, H, A. Pucker and their families. In 18.57 the society formed part of Randolph Grove circuit, and the writer served them in this pastorate for that and the following year : in 18.59, W. R. Howard ; 1860-1, W. E. Johnson. After this Wapella was attached to Dewitt circuit; and 1862-3 H. C. Hockenship. In 1863 the church was built and was dedicated by Rev. Hiram Buck. In 1864-5, J. C. Rucker; 1866, H. C. Hockenship. Then the society was transferred to Hey worth circuit. In 1867, C. G. Bradshaw became pastor, I think, for two years. His preaching was a delight to his hearers. He took in some valuable persons into church membership. Mr. Bradshaw is not now a minister at all. Then followed in the pastoral charge: la 1869, S. Middleton; 1870, T. J.N. Simmons; 1871. S. H. Martin. This was Mr. Martin's first itinerant year. He had been an uncommon useful local preacher, welcomed in every part of the county for thirty years. He was raised in the Roman Catholic church, and after his conversion he was soon licensed to exhort, and his own mother, a catholic, was converted to Christ under his labors - the first fruit in his spiritual conquest. His power to interest his hearers in pulpit or conversation was surpassed by few preachers, however much they might excel him in literary culture. Wapella society, after this year, was united to De Witt circuit- In 1872 W. F. Lowe : 18"; 3, D. Brewer was appointed; 1873- 4-5, N. S. Morris; 1S77-8, L. P. Deatheridge ; 1879 and '80, AV. A. McKiunev- In 1881 the present charge was formed, consisting of Wapella, Bells S. H. and Long Point societies, with Rev. Mr. Tindale, a young man of fine attainments, is in charge. Bell's school house, five miles north-east of Wapella, has been a place for Methodist preaching about twenty years. About

Smith, William Letzeuberger, with their families, including Mrs. Elizabeth Ewing and her mother, removed from Clinton M. E. church, and with some others, formed a Methodist society in Wilson township, where they had located on a beautiful ridge of land, with the usual agencies to promote religious life. Of that colony, Mrs. Ewing and her respected mother, William Bell, William Smith and the elder Mrs. Letzeuberger have died. In 1865 a revival of unusual interest prevailed in this society. The writer began the meeting while school was in session, holding service at noon recess. The lady then the teacher became deeply anxious her pupils should bacDoae Christians, and well was she rewarded ; for every one of them united with the church, and all but one made a joyful profession. Several heads of families, and nearly all the young people in the neighborhood, embraced religion. Two young men, subjects of this revival, have since received a classical education and for several years been members of the annual conference, and are now filling important appointments.

Few societies have held on in religious life with such uniform regularity ; yet strangely this is the only Methodist Episcopal church having regular preaching for years that has not built a church.

Twenty years ago this society was in a fair state of prosperity. There seems to be no record when preaching began in this part of the county. The writer became acquainted with thera as pastor for two years in 1857 and '58. Then, and years after, it formed a part of Randolph Grove circuit. In 1858 the meetinghouse was completed. Among the principal members then were John Wilson, Henry Morrison, Myrus Boling, Widow Scott, and their families, and Mrs John Brown. Myrus Boling and family left the church ; John Wilson died, and his family and Henry Morrison moved away, leaving a few only to " hold the fort " They have most of the time had the same pastors as Wapella. A debate occurred years ago in Long Point M. E. church between Rev. John Luccock, Methodist, of Peoria, and Rev. Mr. Franklin, of the Christian church, from Cincinnati, with no visible beneficent results. One mile from this place of Methodist worship, the Christian church has their church, rendering it dilBcuIt for both to prosper so near each other in a country neighborhood. Under the labors of their present minister. Rev. Mr. Tindale, a good congregation is in attendance, and hopeful prosperity may be looked for by this society.

F.Arjier City M- E. Church

The beginning and growth of Methodism about Hurly's Grove has been related already. The noble men who labored for and fostered an earnest Christianity in Hurly's Grove settlement in the early years of this county, laid the stable foundations that form the underlying granites of Farmer City Methodist Christianity now. After belonging to Marion mission for several years, Mt. Pleasant circuit was formed in 1839; and as the pastors who served on this circuit for many years have already been named, we may only now say, precious be the memory of Horace Mayuard, R. Wiuans Clark, Paxton Cummins, Abbott Goddard, John Sinclair, Peter Cartwright, Norman Allyn, William Hindall, and John S Barger, who years past " ceased from their labors ; their works follow them " Their spiritual oifspring now compose an important uud influential part of the membership of this station. While these ministerial worthies planted the Gospel in Hurly's Grove, thirty, forty, and fifty years ago, the soil in which they planted it was rich in unusual fertility. Few communities in any county had for first settlers a better class of men than those that settled about Hurly's Grove. Fewer still have had so many men of sterling religious worth ; and smaller yet are the number of communities who have raised up so many children to follow in the steps of their parents in business enterprise and decided piety than the Hurly's Grove people - Richard Kirby, Charles McCord, Dennis Hurly, John Weed-

The ministers of ilt. Pleasant circuit, in lS5i). C. Y. Heco ; 18G0-1. \V. B. Barton ; 1862, C Arnold. During Mr. Arnold's term, the main body of the present church was built; in If^tiS, B Barthlow; 1864, S. Shinn ; 1865-6, G. B. Wolfe; 18G7, M. M. Davidson. lu 1S6S, Jit. Pleasant had its name changed, and the circuit, so long bearing a worthy record, passed away, and Farmer City became a station, and Eev. A. T. Orr, its first minister in charge. Tlie church lias now two wings to the main building, atfording iocreased capacity for an audience, and with sliding doors, convenient for clas-s-room^. It is ample in size, avoiding architectural attractiveness, but is a model of chasteness and comfort. Mr. Orr served this station three years ; was highly esteemed by his people, and gathered many into the church; in 1871, M. W. Everhart ; in 1872, Ira Emerson: 1873, J. B. Sevmour ; J. Shaw ; 1876, D. Gay ; 1877, W. F. T. Spruill ; 1878-9, J. T. Orr; 1880-1, M. A Hewes

During the pastorates of Mr. A. T. Orr, Mr. Shinn, Mr. Davidson, Mr. Everhart, Mr Shaw, and Mr. J. T. Orr, the church was encouraged by special revival seasons and additions to their numbers. Fanner city station forms one of the charges of Champaign District, and the presiding Elders have been A. Setnple, R. Travis, H. Buck, W. X. JIcElroy, and now J. G. Little.

A Society has recently been formed at Wecdman, a rail-road town, a feiv miles frjm Farmer cit\', and by the efforts of John Weedmin and others, a handsome church has been erected. This Society is supplied with preaching by the pastor at Farmer city.

The town of De Witt (formerly named Jlarion!, forty-five years ago, gave name tc an important Methodist mission, several hundred miles around it. In early years this was the focal point where camp-meeting? were held. Gabriel \\'att, Amos Shinkle, Col. Geo. Lemon, Wm. Cottingham and others, were members then. In 1853. a house of worship was built, and the Society met ill this place till si.K or seven j-ears past it fell, or was blown down ; and has not been erected since. A parsonage was secured in 1860, which is still occupied by the ministers in charge. George Isixon, who died a few years since, was a member of this Society. Mr. Nisou had been a trustee of the church in Clinton, and was a heavy contributor to that elegant structure. The Society has, by the courtesy of the Protestant Methodists, worshipped in their church since they lo-st their own. The number of members is only about twenty.

Rucker chapel Society belongs to De Witt circuit. Before 1865, for many years a Methodist Society worshipped at Britlou's school-house, on the north fork of Salt creek. Mr. William Walden, Xehemiah Cain, John Cain, - Charles Cain's family, Mr. Vandewater, and Mr. Gear. The Brittons and others, held many joyful meetings in those years in that neighborhood. For a long time the house of Chas. Cain and his brothers was the restingplace of many a weary preacher. Mrs. Charles Cain was one of those "elect ladies" who left a sweet and hallowed influence on all who knew her. The elder Mr. Gear was one of the best of class-leaders, and like "Barnabas," a son of consolation. In 1864 the church was built, and the following winter a revival of impressive interest followed. The writer was assisted by Itev. Robert Taylor, of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, in conducting these meetings.

county, not belonging to any town. In 1881 they renovated their ciiurch inside and out, ami it is said to look better now than when it was finished seventeen years ago.

Weldon S iciety also f irrui p.irt of the pa^tiral cliarge of De Witt circuit. Weldon, on the Wabash rail-r ad, ha^ been built only a few years. In 1876 there was a small number of Methodists living in the vicinity of Weldon ; these aided largely by the citizens, erected quite a creditable Methodist church. Little progress, however, has been made in adding to the numerical strength of the Society.

PAr.xELL Society: This infant church organization began like the village itself, in 1881. The first thing done was the election of a board of trustees, and then building a church dedicated on January 8th, 1882 by Rev. W. II. H. Adams, D. D., of Illinois Wesleyau University.

The.se five Societies, De Witt, Pucker's chapel, Weldon, Swisher's, Parnell, with Deland Society in Pratt county form De Witt circuit pastoral charge. The pastors who have presided on this circuit have been: In 1861, G. Adams; 1862-3, H. C Hockensmith; 1864-5, J. C Rucker; 1866-7, H. C. Hockeiismith ; 1868. G. Garner; 1870, T. D. Weems ; 1871, D. A. Grimes ; 1872 W. F, Lowe; 1873, D. Brewer; 1874-5-6, X. S. Morris: 1377-8, P. Deatherage ; 1879 ; and 80, W. A. JIcKinney ; 1881, Uriah Warriugton Choate. The Presiding Elders have been the same as for Farmer eitv station.

The Protestaxt Methodist Church

A society of the Protestant Methodist Church was organized in this county in 1850, at De Witt, then at several other points, till a circuit with regular preaching was established. After some years a substantial brick house of worship was erected in the town of De Wilt. The annual conference was held in this building soon after it was completed. The following facts are all the writer has been able to obtain for this history : The Rev. John L. Scott, the present worthy pastor of the Protestant Methodist Church in this county, informs me that De Witt circuit has five preaching places in this county, one atDe Witt with fifteen members, one at Prairie Centre with fifty, one at Swisher's with twenty, one at Walnut Grove with twelve, one at FuUerton with fourteen, and one at Davenport with ten members. There are two other societies on the circuit ; part of the members reside in this countv, and the whole number in the pastoral charge is 166. The present pastor organized the societies at Swisher's and at Fullertou. Mr Scott has been quite successful in securing additions to the church at several points. Rev. Wm. Cottingham and Rev. Archibald McConkey, of De Witt, have for many years been active and earnest laborers in this branch of the Church of Christ.

The Baptist Chitrch

Clinton. - The fiitt Baptist Church of Clintou, Ills., was organized February 1st, 1839, in the house of George L. Hill. The following ministers ami brethren constituted the council who was called upon for the i)urpose of assiiting in the organization of the church, viz: Rev- Jonathan Mirriam, Rev. Isaac Kewell, and brethren William Randolph and Jacob Coppenbarger. The usual proceedings, in such ca-ts, were had, and the church was duly organized according to the usages of the Baptist denomination. The names of the constituent members were, Rev. Joel Hulsey, George L. Hill, William Ilulsey, John McAboy, Polly Hulsey, Elizabeth Ilulsey, Louisa V. Hill, ilary McAboy, and Sarah F. Hickman. Brother George L. Hill was the ttlicient church clerk for a number of years, to him, in fact, the church owes to a great extent, its existence and present standing in the community

The following named Pastors have served the church, Rev. Joel Hulsey, from February IfiSO to December 1<S41 ; Rev. "William McPherson, from January, 1842 to May, 1^-54 ; Rev. Lucias H. Gibbs, from June, 1854 to August, l'^54 ; Rev. Zenas Hall, from Decembtr, 18.'i4 to February, 1855 ; Rev. Thomas Rees, from June 1855 to November 1S56; Rev. Overton Ely, preached occasionally to the church for some time ; Rev. W. G. Johnson was pastor from June, 1857 to April. 1859 : Rev. J. Z Zimmerman, from .June, 1860 to April, 1861 ; Rev. H. B. Johufon, from June, 1861 to March, 1862 ; Rev. D. MacArthur, from July, 1865 to March, 1870; Rev. C. A. Quirell, from Jlarch, 1870 to June, 1871 ; Bev. J. W. Rees, from Sept 1871 to March 1873; Rev. J. Storrs, from Aug 1873 to Dec. 1873; Rev L.J. Huntley, from Jan. 1874 to April 1874 ; Rev. Joseph H. Sedgewick, from Oct. 1874 to Dec. 1876; Rev. D. JIacArthur, from September 1877 to October, 1881. Rev. J. W. Estey, an evangelist, held a protracted meeting, which resulted in great and permanent good to the community and the church, in the year 1859. A house of worship was erected early in the history of the church. In 1866 the church resolved to build a new meeting house, the result was, the present commodious building, seating capacity about two hundred. The building and lots cost 87,000, all paid for. The church at present is out of debt Considering the financial condition of the membership of the church, they may be said, to give cheerfully and liberallv for the maintenance of the church at home, and also to the various benevolent enterprises of the denomination at large. The present membership is fifty-five. This church has sustained an efficient Sunday School since the year 1859 ; there is at present a membership of 140 scholars. The present Superintendent, B, njamiu T. Hill, is doing a great amount of good, he is aided bvan efficient force of teachers.

The following statement may be accepted as the historical characteristics of the Baptist denominalion in the United States. The Baptists are a denomination of evangelical Christians, who hfjld that the immersion of Christian believers is of universal obligation, and practice accordingly. " Thev hold this, because they acknowledge uo master but Christ ; no rule of faith but His word ; no baptism but that which is preceded and hallowed bv personal piety ; no church but that which is the body of Christ, pervaded, governed and animated by His Spirit." Ever since the Church and State were first united, the Baptists have suffered every form of persecution on account of their loyalty to the doctrine of soul liberty. The historian Bancroft, speaking of tbe German Baptists, says : " With greater consistency than Luther, thev applied the doctrines of the reformation to the social positions of life, and threatened an end of priest-craft and king-craft, spiritual dominaticn, title and vassalage. They were trodden under foot with foul reproaches and most arrogant scorn, and their history is written in the blood of thousands of the German peasantry ; but their principles, secure in their immortality, escaped with Roger Williams to Providence, his colony is witness that naturally the paths of the Baptist are paths of freedom, pleasantness and peace." Mr. Locke has truly said : " The Baptists were from the beginning, the friends of liberty, just and true liberty ; equal and impartial liberty." Yet, until the Quakers arose in 1600, the Baptists stood alone in its defence. A writer in the JS\io Ameriran Cyclopedia, says : " Among the Baptists, Christian freedom found its earliest, its staunchest, its most consistent and its most disinterested champions. Nor less powerful has been the influence of the Baptists in the United States. Introduced into Rhode Island with Roger Williams and John Cook, in 163"'. Their history for more than a century in most of the colonies is that of proscribed and banished men, yet persecuted themselves, i( it their glory never to have persecuted others." On the code of laws established by them in Rhode Island, Judge Story says: "We read for the first time, since Christianity ascended the throne of the C:esars, the declaration that conscience should be free, and men should not be punished for worshipping God in the way they were persuaded he requires." From that declaration Rhode Island has never departed, and in this it was followed, first by Pennsylvania and New Jersey, afterwards Virginia, and since by all the United States.

The article on religious liberty in the amendment to the American Constitution, was introduced into it by the united eflTorts of Baptists in the year 1789. The new impulse given to the spirit of liberty by the revolutionary war was followed by the rapid spread of Baptist principles. Their great prosperity dates from that era. In 1702 there were but 56 Baptist churches in America; in 1792 there were 1,000; in 1812, 2,433; in 1832 5,:S22; in 1852 they exceeded 9,500 ; in 1858 there were 12,000 churches with 1,000,000 members. At the present time, statistics of 1880, there are 25,000 churches, 18,596 ordained ministers, and 2,296,327 members.

From these statistics it appears that the rate of increase of the Baptists far outruns that of the population of the United States. And the rates of increase have been greatest in Massachusetts and Virginia, where they were most persecuted. The Baptists are ardent supporters of the cause of missions both home and foreign. They are sustaining missions in North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Islands of the Sea. In the province of Burmah alone, they have 400 mission churches, 200 ordained ministers with over 30,000 members, all converted from the grossest idolatry.

There has been given by the Baptist churches in the United States for the support of Home and Foreign Missions during the year 1880, 8885,486.

While the Baptists do not make educational attainments a test of fitness for the ministry, yet, they have always encouraged their candidates for the ministry to secure the highest possible attainments in scholar.-hip. Hence, in order to provide such advantages, they are sustaining 10 Theological Seminaries, 31 Colleges and Universities, 46 Academies and Female Colleges, with an attendance in all of over 10,000 students. They also support 70 religious newspapers and periodicals.

This church was organized in the year L'^T'J under the labors of Elder Thomas Reasoner, who labored among this people as an Evangelist with some success. He found a people here who were formerly slaves in the Southern States, and were crushed under the irou wheels of the slave power, and as a matter of course were brought up in ignorance, but since the famous Emancipation Proclamation by President Lincoln, they have undertaken to act for themselves in matters of religion and politics, and consequently, wherever they have opportunity, they meet together to worship God according to the dictates of the Bible and their own consciences.

The names of the constituent members of this church are as follows: Polly Jackson, Mary Jackson, Samuel Jackson, Peter Simpson, B. W. Livingstone.

Elder J. M. Davis served the church for one year followed by Elder William Watson, Elder Isaac Stratton, and the present pastor. Elder Andrew Xewsome.

The Separate Baptist churches of this county have been in existence for a long time. They claim the Scriptures of Divine truth as the only rule of faith and practice, and while they difier in some respects from the great body of Baptists, yet they are firm adherents of Bible doctrine as they understand it, they practice feet wa-hing, as a church ordinance, and open or free communion ; these are perhaps, the main differences, otherwise they are faithful advocates of the leading doctrines of the Bible. In their manners they are plain and humble followers of Jesus.

The Liberty Separ.4.Te Baptist Church

Was organized in the year 1834 under the labors of Elder Solomon Dispane, after him the following named ministers served as preachers and pastors. Owen Davis. Thomas Davenport, Robert Henson, William Springer, John Springer, Abram Jones, George Clifton, Peter Garrett, Franklin Lowrey, Thomas Jenkins.

The New Providence B.Iptist Church

Sometimes called Old School, or Predestinarian Baptitts, located in Tunbridge township. This church was constituted in the month of June, 1853, by elders Mann, Scroggins and J. Froman. The names of the constituent members were Simon Williams, Sarah Williams, Ellenor Baird, Lucilla Duncan, Tarlton Embree, Patsy Embree, Ursula Belfoi'd, Elizabeth Gamble and John B. Moore.

These brethren have a comfortable house of worship, located some two miles east of th^ town of Kenney. Their church property is all paid for. Their present membership is thirty-three.

We believe in the doctrine of eternal, personal election and predestination of all things pertaining to the church, as His body, and that God did choose His people in Christ, bei"ore the world was.

We believe that sinners are justified before God, by and through the righteousness of Jesus being imputed to them, and that good works or spiritual sacrifices are evidences of our faith and justification.

We believe that believers are the only subjects for baptism, and that baptism is immersion, and none legal but that performed by an orderly minister of the church.

We believe that no minister has the right to administer the ordinances in the house of God, until he has been legally baptized and approved by the church, and come under the imposition of two or more ministers or elders of the church.

We believe in the resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust; and the judgment of the great day, and that the joys of the righteous and the punishment of the wicked will be eternal.

We believe in the doctrine of regeneration, or being born again ; that except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of heaven, and that which is born of the flesh will remain flesh, and that which is born of the spirit is spirit, and out of the natural, or Adamic, and the spiritual natures, grows the warfare between the old and new man, or outward and inner man.

By Edward Allyn

Every religious body should be able to give a reason for its existence ; enlightened public sentiment demands it ; if it is not doing a good work for humanity, peculiar and distinct from other religious bodies, there is no reason for its existence, for why, should we multiply agencies to accomplish a certain end, when united effort would accomplish the same in less time? If then this body of Christians cannot give sufficient reasons for its existence, to satisfy an intelligent community, it ought to die.

What then are its positions, principles, and purposes? I give them, by quoting from the pen of our .state evangelist, N. S. Haynes : " While this Church holds much truth in common with others, yet it has its distinctive features that give it a right to live. With others it holds the divine inspiration of the Holy Scriptures, the revelation of God's will and character in them, the divinity and Christhood of Jesus, forgiveness of sins through His atonement, faith in the Christ and obedience to His authority as the necessary human agencies in the formation of Christian character, the resurrection of the dead, and the doctrine of future retribution. The peculiar features of this Church are these : that while believing the Old Testament is the Word of God and necessary in order to a right understanding of the New, j-et tlie 01(1 is not our rule iu life, because it was never given ks tuch to us Gentiles, and because it has been supplanted by the New Testament ; that the Scriptures are all-sufficient to make the man of God perfect, and hei ee the rejection of all human creeds as schismaiical and sinful ; that in religious teaching we hold the " form of sound words," rejccling all unseriptural terms, as Trinitj, el id omne r/eiitis, and all unbiblical names; hence the nickname " Campbtllite " is unauthorized and offensive; that conversion is not the mysterious and direct impact of the Holy Spirit on the sinner's soul, but his turning from sin to the Saviour, the proof of His conversion being a Christian life ; and that an inquirer after salvation must always be answered, according to his condition, in the exact words of the inspired oracles for such cases made and provided ; that the ordinances, baptism and the Lord's supper, must be observed as given by Christ and His apostles without change ; that all of God's people should be united in "one body," as iu the primitive and apostolic church, iu order that they may the more eihciently do their Master's work, and turn the world in faith to Him. " Where the Bible speaks we speak, where the Bible is silent we are silent," is a cardinal maxim. To go back to the beginning of the Cburch to make our teaching and practice, in all matters e;.sential, coincide with that of the in.spired apostles is the aim of this religious body. This, our plea, has made wonderful progress in the past fifty years. From a very feeble folk we have grown to .500,000 iu the Uuited States, besides large and flourishing churches in Australia and New Zealand. Our missionaries are at work in Jamaica, England, Denmark, Norway, France, and Turkej'. As uKinv were added to this Church in the United States as to the Methodist Episcopal Cburch in the same territory iu the year 1879. The influence of this diviue plea has reached all classes of society, and this Church has two members in the United States Senate, twelve in the House of Representatives, and our late president, James A. Garfield, was a member of this society ; besides these there are other names with a national reputation. It publishes fifteen papers and periodicals and a large number of tracts and books. Its members have under their control thirty-eight schools of all classes, one-half of which are academies, colleges, and universities of a good srade. The following is the history of this Church in De Witt county :

" The groves were Ciud's first temples," and in a grove near where ohl Uuion Church now stands, Father Hugh Bowles, cumraenced preaching the Gospel of Christ ; and here in this primitive temple, on Saturday before the second Lord's day in August 1833 old Union Church was organized, seventeen persons entered into this organization, of this number only seven remain to tell the old, old story, viz: Anderson Bowles, Margaret Bowles, Rebecca Bowles, Henry Hall and wife, Mary Hall and Elizabeth Barnett. The first officers were Hugh Bowles and Malou Hall, Elders ; Joseph Bowles and Darius Hall, deacons. The following named preachers have ministered to this congregation Hugh Bowles. James Scott, Abner Peales, Alfred Lindsey, William Ryan, W. P. Bjwles, Isaac Martin, John England, .John GCampbell, Isaac Stout, Dudley Downs. C. F. Short, William Knight, R. B. Roberts, Samuel Low, E. C. Craig, L. M. Robinson and T. T. Holton. In addition to tbe.se regular preachers, noted protracted meetings have been held by John Q. Houston, Elder Craiu, George F. Adams and Simpson Ely. At these meetings large additions were made to the church. Over one thousand persons hnve been connected with this church. The present membership, who attend church regularly, is two hundred and fifty, of this number, are twenty-five who take active part in the social meetings. This congregation had no house of worship until 18.'58, when the old church was built ; this first house was a union church, occupied part of the time by the Baptists and Jlethodists, previous to the building of this house meetings were hell] in the grove and in private houses. The present church building was erected in 18ti4, near the site of the old house. It is situated ten miles south-west of Cliuton on a hill near Salt Creek, at the foot of the hill are large springs of never failing water, back of the church is the old grave yard where many of the early settlers are buried. The cost of the new church was 83,000. It has a seating capacity of 600. The present officers are Robert Black and .Joseph Bowles, Elders ; Daviil McClimans, William F. Bowles and J. A. Evans, deacons.

The present pastor T. T. Hohon has labored for this congregation ten years, has been instrumental in settling difficulties in the church, and under his preaching it has been harmonious and prosperous. He is universally loved, and vrill probably labor for this congregation for some time to come. He preaches for the church one-half of the tiuie, the pulpit being filled the rest of the time by home talent. Two public discussions have been held at this church, one between James Barger, Methodist and W. P. Bowles, Christian ; the other between Abraham Jones, Bajitist and Absalom Forman, Universalist. This church sustains a good Sunday school of seventy-five members, C. D. Bowles, superintendent, and they exert a wide influence for good. To day counting among her membership many of the leailing families of the community. It is a tower of strength and a potent factor for good. It is the oldest church of this denomination iu the county and among those who contributed much to its prosperity in an early day was Father Bowles. He was born in Virginia in 178fi, and spent the early part of his life in Kentucky. His educational oportunities were limited, yet he was a great reader, and an original thinker, and was well read in hi;tory both ancient and modern, but his greatest text book was the Bible, especially the New Testament ; of this he cnuld repeat the greater portion. He removed to Illinois iu 1830 and to De Witt county in ISol. Besides old Union, he organized churches at Rock Creek and Long Point, in this county, and at other points in Logan and S.mgamoa counties. He labored upon the farm through the week preaching Saturdays and Sundays, often riding on horseback from twenty to fifty miles to reach his appointments. The largest sum of money ever received by him for preaching was ten dollars, this he gave to a lady who was hurt by being thrown from her horse while attending one of his meetings. He spent the later years of his life in preaching to the various congregations he had founded, and iu December 1 840 at the age of sixty years was called to reap the rewai-d of his labors.

This church is situated about four miles west of Wapella, near a small stream, from which the cburch derives its name. In the fall of 1837, Father Hugh Bowles, of old Union church, made a visit into this neighborhood, and with James Scott held a protracted meeting at the house of Samuel P. Glenn, and organized the above named church. Henry Michaels, Peter Crum, Samuel P.Glenn, Benjamiu Slatteu, William Lane, with their wives, and Mrs. Isam Harrold, constituted the charter members of this organization. The church met at the houses of Peter Crum, at Long Point, aud

The first Elders were Henry Jliehaels and Peter Crura ; Deacons, Samuel P. Glenn and Benjamin Slatten. The pioneer preachers were William Ryan, \V. P. Bowles and uncle James Robinson. In 187G the present house of worship was built onefourth of a mile south of the old church, at a cost of 81,325, with seating capacity of 300-

The present officers are. Elders: Sanuiel P. Glenn, F. M. Cisce and Andrew Scott. Deacons : G. \V. Halsey and John Cisce. Evangelist: A. J. Vinson. Prtsenl membership, sixtytwo. They have no Sunday-school.

This congregation is located four miles north of Wapella, in Long Point timber, on the State road leading from Clinton tn Bloomington. It was organized in the grove near Liberty schoolhouse, by William Ryan and William Morrow, in August, 18.51, with nineteen members. The officers chosen were : Walter Earr aad Peter Crum, for elders ; and E. W. Swearingen and William Keunidy, for deacons. The following named preachers have served this church : W. P. Bowles, AVilliam Ryan, John Wilson, Dudley Downs, George Owens, Dr. Ingle, Samuel Low, Harry Vandervort, Jefiersou Hodson, John Q. A. Houston, E. F. Baston, andS. B- Lindsley, the present preacher. Protracted meetings have been held by W. P. Shockey, Benjamin Franklin, Leroy Skelton, William Knight, Clark Braden and J. W. Perkins, in which many were added to the church. This congregation met in Liberty school-house until 1S58, when the present house of worship was built, at a cost of about 82,000. Its present value is 81,.5UO. The whole number of members connected with this congregation since it was established is about two hundred and fifty.

The present membership is seventy-seven. The officers are. Elders: JohnM. Cunningham, William F. Turner, Abram .Summers. Deacons: Barton Karr, James B. Romine and William S. Karr. A public discussion was held with this church and the Methodists in 1862. Benjamin Franklin rejiresented the Christian church, and John Luckock the Methodist church. This church has a large Sunday-school during the summer months.

In the spring of Is.jl Walter P. Bowles and AVilliam Springer were holding a meeting four miles south of Clinton at the house of HLram Dotson ; while there elder Springer proposed to W. P. Bowles and others present, the building of a meeting house at the county seat. All present approved of the move. A meeting called and a building committee appointed, consisting of 'William G. Springer, William Bowlin and Samuel Brown. The committee secured the lot where the church now stands, aa a gift from Judge David Davis, and in the early part of 18-52 had the house ready for use. Still the congregation was not yet organized. There were members enough for a small congrega ion living in and around Clinton. In the fall of 1852 William G. Springer, then acting county assessor, c mmer.ccd a protracted meeting, during which Elder Shockey, of Indiana, came to Clinton and assisted in the meeting ; at the close of the meeting the Clinton Christian Church was organized. The first elders were William Bowlin, W. G. Springer ; deacons, Abram Crum and Milton Oakerson.

Downs, J. J. Miles, D. D. Miller, J. C. Tullcy, G. F. Adams and Samuel Lowe. Protracted meetings were held by William Brown in 18.5G; W. P. Shockly in 1858; W.Houston in 1859; John Q, A. Houston and Dudley Downs in 18G0-G1. At this meeting the crowd was so great that the church floor broke down, and produced quite a stampede. David Walk in 1862; Benjamin Franklin in 1803; R. B. Roberts and Cieorge Owen in 1807 ; Alexander Hutcherson in 1808 ; E. T. C. Bennett in 1869, and "the following named ministers have preached for the church occasionally : Charles Rowe, James ilitchel, -Jaines Robinson, John Wil-on, Peter Schick, N. S. Huynes, F. T. Holton, A. D. Filmore, S. M. Robinson, Harry 'S'audervort, W. H. Crow, and Elijah Stout.

Two public discussions have been held in this church, the first between William .Shockey, Chri.-tian, and Rev Josiah Davis, Universalist ; the second between Dudley Downs, Chiistian, and Dr. Summerbell, (newlight,) Christian. The church has a Sunday school in connection with the social meetings and meets regularly every Lord's day. This church has had a hard struggle to keep up its orsanization. and its meetings have not beeji very regular in the past ; it has had its times of prosperity and adversity, and we trust a brighter day is dawning for this struggling congregation.

Dudley Downs made his home with this congregation several years, ajjd the period of its greatest prosperity was when he labored for it ; he was a man of great zeal and piety, an eloquent and persuasive speaker, and a sweet singer. His singing added much to the interest of his meetings. For a time he was one of the editors of the ChrUtUin Hrratd, a monthly, first published at Wapella and afterwards at Eureka. His writing, like that of his preaching, was full of persuasive eloquence. He was born in 1836, and came to this county in 1861. By his preaching large numbers were added to the various congregations throughout the county. In 1869 he went to Tennessee, and from ihence to Minnesota in hopes of restoring his health, but his labors had been so unceasing, and his exposure so great, that consumption hurried his b,)dy into the grave, while hij spirit winged its way into " the realms of the blest,'' and " He knows what it is to be there," (one of his favorite songs). He died at St Paul, Minn , in 1870, at the age of thirty-four.

In and around Farmer City lived quite a number of persons wlio had been members of the Christian church in Ohio, and elsewhere. These, with others interested, decided to build a house of worship and then organize the church. In the fall of 1864 they had the house erected ; immediately after the completion of the house, Dudley Downs commenced a protracted meeting, and October 4, 1864, organized the church. Twenty-five persons entered into this organization. The first officers wtre, elders - Milam Mi ore and John Lemon; deacons, J. F. Bean and 'amuel Watson. The regular pastors since are, T. E. C. Bennett, S. K. Hallem, W. T. Maupin, and S K. Shields. Successful protracted meetings have been held by R. B. Roberts In April, 1868, with forty-five additions, and by D. P. Henderson, in the winter of 1876, with one hundred and two additions. Over three hundred persons have had membership with this congregation, the present membership being si.xty-nine. The present officers are, elders - Jefferson Wetzel and H. H. Welch ; deacons, J. H. Bean, Z. F. Morau, Nathan Welch, and Chas- Prior.

The church was without a pastor from 1879 to 1881, and have receutly employed D. K. Shiehls as pastor of the church. The preseut house of worship cost .1p3,.")00, with a seating capacity of 400; is situated near the center of the town, nu Main street; was dedicated by J. Z. Taylor in 1865. A public discussion held in this church in June, 1868, between R. B. Roberts, Christian, and E. Manford, I'Biversalist.

Quite a number of the members of the Long Point congregation lived at Wapella, four miles fr.m their house of worship, and it was very inconvenient for them to attend public worship so far from home, as but few of them had means of conveyance ; so it was thought best to organize a congregation at Wapella. In the winter of 1867 elder George Owens, of Jacksonville, 111., commenced a protracted meeting in the M. E. church house. Here he continued until his preaching had converted quite a number from the Methodift^, when he was excluded from their bouse. The meetings were then held in the old school house, and here, on the 24th day of January, 1867, the church was constituted ; a goodly number had obeyed the gospel during the meeting, and these, with twenty frtm the Long Point congregation, constituted the charter members. The first elders were Joshua Carle, Peter Crum, and Stephen Riggs ; deacons, A. D. Jletz, Wm. Crum, and J. W. Carr. Having no house of worship, they continued to meet in the eld school-house until 1869, when the present house was built, at a cost of 83,000 ; size, 34 by 50 feet, with a seating capacity of 350. The present officers are, Joshua Carle and James W. Karr, elders; A. D. Metz, AVilliam Crum, and Thomas Wright, deacons. The present membership in good standing is forty-five. The following preachers have been pastors of this congregation : George Owens, two yeaj-s ; L. Engle, E. T. Russel, John C. Tulley, one year each ; W. L. Jermane and S. D. Lindsley, two years each. S. D. Lindsley resides here and preaches for this congregation one-half of the time. The church maintains an interesting Sunday-school of 50 members, and keeps up regularly its Wednesday evening prayer-meetings. When no minister is present, the pulpit is filled by W. R. Carle and elder James W. Karr alternately. This congregation believes in cultivating its home talent, making the church a school, Christ's school, where His disciples are taught- In such schools some of our best ministers are taught, and who can estimate the good a church may thus accomplish, by giving gifted young men an opportunity to develop their talents, mental and moral, and thus fit themselves for preaching " the unsearchable riches of Christ and His kingdom." This church has never failed to meet upon the first day of the week ''to show forth the Lords death" and attend to the other ordinances of His house. Its intiuence for good is felt in the community where it exists. The history of this church would not be complete without a short sketch of the life and labors of elder Joshua Carle. Father Carle was born in Fayetteville, Pennsylvania, August 4, 1800; from here his parents moved to Jefierson county, Ohio Here Joshua grew into manhood, and Xovember 29, 1829, under the preaching of AValter Scott, became " obedient to the faith." He was a true disciple, a learner in Christ, and advanced rapidly in the knowledge of the scriptures. He attended the meetings of A. Campbell at Wellesburgh, and succeeded in getting Campbell to hold a meeting in his father's neighborhood in Jellerson county. The few disciples gathered together here continued to meet from house to house until 1830, when a church was organized. Father Carle then became an active worker, teaching, exhorting, and admonishing; the teaching, belief and practice of the Disciples here at this time was an astonishment to the people. In 1830 he organized a congregation at Warrington. Walking by the book, he found it his duty to baptize, and did so - being the first in the reformation to find authority for a Disciple, ''a royal priest" to baptize. ( 1 Peter, 2d chapter.) He soon began to preach, and organized a congregation at Smithfield and built a meeting house. In 1839 he moved to Trumbull county, and waa made elder of the c )ngregation at Ausliutown. In 1842 he assisted in the organization of a church and the building of a meeting house at Jfiles. He remained in Trumbull county sixteen years, preaching for the various congregations in the county. In 1859 he moved to McLean county, 111 , and to Wapella, De Witt county, hi 1864, where he still lives. Much of the stability of this congregation is owing to Father Carle, who, unless sickness prevents, may always be found in his place in the house of the Lord.

The records of this church could not be found, and but few facts could be learned about its early history. The first organization was constituted by W. P. Bowles in 1850. Walter Bowles and W. G. Springer were the first ministers who labored for this organization. A re-organization was eflfected about the year 1860. For this new organization Dudley Downs, J. J. Miles, labored. The present house of worship was built in 1876, at a cost of §1250, with a seating capacity of 360. Part of the membership of this congregation lived in and near Maroa, and when the church there was organized they withdrew from the Texas church and joined the new organization, leaving the Texas church with only forty members. The present officers are : Sylvanus Potter, elder ; Henry Beal and Berry Spencer, deacons. They have a Sunday-school during the summer months. The church at present have no regular meetings-

Fairview Christian Church

This small congregation is situated four miles north of the Rock creek church in Waynesvilie township, and was organized in 1877 by Elder J. S. Stagner. A house of worship was built in 1878, at a cost of 8900, with a seating capacity of 250. The ofiicers are : Robert H. Baker, A. H- Gates, and Calvin Riley, elders ; B. F. De Spain, deacon. Present membership twentyfive. The following ministers have labored for this congregation : J. S. Stagner, James Robinson, M J Hodson, and D.T.Hughes. Have no regular meetings at present ; maiutain a small Sundayschool during the summer months-

Harmony Christian Church

This church was situated four miles north-east of Clinton, and was organized by Elder George Owens in the winter of 1867. The present church buildiug was dedicated the following summer. This church kept up its organization only a short time, nearly all the members having moved away, - some to the far West, and some to other parts of the county. The building still stands, and is principally owned by members of the Lane congregation, and they contemplate moving the building to Lane.

Lane Christian Church

bers, many leaving the old Christian connection to join this young congregation. Among the first officers were T. Lane and Dr. Simmerman, the present elders. The following ministers have labored for this congregation : Dr. Siiumerinan, Dudley Downs, J. J. Jliles, Edwin Kodgers, George Sweeney, D. D. Miller, and L. M. Robinson. In 18(1(5 a public discus.sion was held between this church and the Christian connection, Dudley Downs representing the Christian churcli and Dr. Sumnierbell the Christian connection.

They have no church building, and hold their meetings in the Line school-house. The present membership is sixty. L- M. Robinson preaches for this congregation once a month. The great need of this church is a house of worship ; had they this much more good might be accomplished by this congregation.

Summary The Holy Catholic Church

We have been greatly disappointed in' our efforts to gather sufficient materials to enable us to give a full history of the rise and progress in this county, of this great ecclesiastical organization, which numbers in its ranks nearly one-half of the professing Christians of the globe ; and which has done more toward the advancement of civilization in this and the old world than any other religious denomination. We have tried in vain to make this article more extensive, but the ministers of this the " Old Faith " (who now reside here; have been here only a short time, nor have the records of the church been accessible to us. We present the sketch, fully aware of its deficiencies, but as the very best possible under the circumstances surrounding us during its preparation.

The Catholic faith is represented in this county by one organization, located at Wapella, and one mission, recently established at Clinton. For several years after the organization at Wapella was effected, it was maintained as a mission auxiliary to Bloomington. In 1857 the idea of erecting a house of worship began to be agitated, and was soon put into execution. A house, costing about 82,300 was constructed, also a parsonage, -which cost about 81,200. The first resident priest was Father Eeavis, in 1867. He w-as succeeded by Fathers Schriber, Recouver, and the present incumbent, Patrick C. McGrath. The Church is in a flourishing condition. The membership are now moving in the matter of building a larger house of worship. Plans and specifications have been partially settled upon for a brick structure, which, when completed, will be among the best edifices of the kind in the county.

Christian Connection Bt Asher Lane

A Christian church was organized in the year of our Lord 1837, by the Rev. Thomas Welch, at the house of Peter Leare, in Creek Township, De Witt county. Ills., with thirteen members, consisting of the following: Benjamin Lisenbey, Peggy Lisenbey, Jeremiah Thompson, Nancy Thompson, Rebecca Lane, Maria Springer, John Springer, John Lane, John Miller, Nancy Miller, Ezekeil Lane, Tabitha Lane, and Geo. D. Smallwood.

and strongly contended for the right and duty of private judgment, and taking the Bible and that alone as the only rule of faith and practice. They also contended that Chris(ian character should be the only test of fellowship. In the admission of members it was their custom to present them with the Bible, instructing them to study it well, informing them that it contained all that was necessary to guide them in the way of truth and righteousness, unaided by any human commentary or tyrannical creed. If, after careful searching therein, they thought it taught the doctrine of Trinitarianism, Humanitarianism, Socinianism, or any other ism, they were not excommunicated from the Church therefor, but were suffered peacefully to hold their own private views, providing they showed forth the fruits of Christianity.

2. That "Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of God ;" that He existed with the Father Ijefore the world was ; that He was given as the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but for the sins of the whole world ; that He now exists with the Father and will be the final judge of the quick and the dead.

3. That the Holy Ghost is a divine emanation of God, by which He exerts an energy or influence on rational minds. The same emanation by which our Saviour was anointed (Acts x. 38), and which was poured out on the day of Pentecost. The same that Christ promised to send from the Father, even the Spirit of Truth, which proceedeth from the Father.

4. That the Bible is of divine origin and profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness ; that it is sufficiently plain and sufficiently perfect without the aid of one-sided commentaries or human creeds.

5. That all men have sinned and come short of the glory of God, and hence a regeneration or change of heart is necessary in order to become true disciples of Christ.

9. That a life of watchfulness and prayer only will keep Christians from falling, enable them to live in a justified state, and ultimately secure to them a crown of eternal life.

10. Relative to the atonement, they think the Scriptures plainly show that the death of Christ has laid the only foundation of hope, and that Christ crucified is the power of God and the wisdom of God.

To these we might add their belief in a resurrection of both the just and the unjust ; in a future judgment ; in future rewards and punishments : in infants' salvation ; in the necessity of good works added to faith ; in the mediation of Christ ; in the willingness of God to bless all that seek His face and favor in Christian equality; in Christian fellowship; in revivals; in Christian character; and in church discipline.

The above named church increased in number and strength until 1850, when the onward and peaceful march was interrupted by the Disciples (Campbellites so called), as well as other opposing elements with which they were surrounded. Notwithstanding all opposition they stood firm to their principles, and advocated what thev understood to be truth. Quite a number of their member- left and j<ii:)ed the Di.-^eiples. About this time the ehuveh juiucd the Cllri^ti:ul coniercuee.

Bro. J. \Vekh liib.ind haiil and iaithfully for about tweuty years to hold tlie ground they oecupied Bro. J. Lane comnieuced exliortiug and preacliiug, and onntiuued faithfully encased in advocating the doctrine they had irabu d until his death, being determiued to hold their ground. In the fall of 18o4 thev sent to Ohio for Eld. J. A. Simmermau to come and hold a pro'tracted meeting, nud assist in establishing their principles. He continued the meeting for thirty days and received in the church and immersed 40. In 18.i.5-() a number of the members left and joined the Disciples In 18.58 they built a comfortable house of worship. After the deatli of Bros. W-elch and Lane the church gradually went ddwu, lint a small remnant yet is left to advocate the cause nl'the (.'hristian coimectiou.

The Presbyterian Church of Wapella was organized May 26tb, 1808, bv a Comnnttee appointed by the Presbytery of Blooming ton, with the following members by letters from other churches, viz: John Patter. Jane Potter, H(pmer Buck, M.ary Buck, Martha Buck, Thomas Brown, George F. Brown, Lucinda Brown, Hugh D. Watson, Endine Watson, Eli Cantrall, Zavilda Cantrail, Joshua Hull, Xancy Hickle, Susana Cartwill, S. A. Longbrake, Mary E. Longbrake, James Ellis, P.ay Nelson, Mary W. Abbott, Marcuda Hull. (21.)

There have been added since the organization to January 1, 1882 : On examination, 29 ; by letters from other churches, 1.5 ; [ making a total membership of 6.5. Of these, 9 have passed to I their reward ; 26 have withdrawn by letter, aud 15 have left ir^ regidarly ; leaving the present membership 1-3.

The following ministers have served this church : Rev. Samuel Stevenson, Rev. A. L. Knox, Rev. W. L Ral)e, and Rev. W. W. Paris. There was a Sabbath-scliool organized in the fall of 1871, and continued its work for about five years, and the members becoming few in number and living in the country, it was disbanded and united with other schools.

The Presbyterian Church of Clinton, De Witt Cotmty, III, was organized on July 23, 18.5S, by a Coniniitttte of the Presbytery of Peoria " old school," as the ancient record reads. The Committee were Revs. Fielding, N. Ewing and A. H. Rogers. The original members were thirteen, viz: Mrs. Patience Leavens, Miss Catharine B. Leavens, Mrs. Mary Lewis, jMiss Mary C. Lewis, L. B. Hickman, Miss Elizabeth A. JIcKeniiay, Alexander Shields, Mrs. Jane Shields and James MeKinley were received upon certificate from other churches. JIrs Nancy Dye, James H. McKenny, James IMcKenny and Mrs. Jane McKenny were received uponexamiuation. James B. MeKinley was chosen ruling Elder, and was regularly ordained and installed on the following da)', July 24, 1853. (Signed), F. N. Ewing, Moderater. J. B. MeKinley, Clerk. Of these thirteen members, four and perhaps others are still in the church militant ; three are still with us, and held in e.-teem among us - Mrs. Mary Lewis, Miss C. B. Leavens, Miss Mary C. Lewis (now Mrs. Wm. Bishop), the fourth - J B. MeKinley, is an active and honored member of the churcli at Champaign, and a ruling Elder iu the same. Mr. McKinlpy, though no longer of our number, is held in warm remendn-ance and high honor by the church. All unite iu representing him as one of the faithful few who stood firm shoulder to shoulder in the long and trying day of small things ; and there is evidence tliat he liad no little to do under God in imparting to the Church that stability, solidity, persistence in good works and ferv(u- of mutual afli^otion which mark it to the present day. He writes most modestly, " I shall always retain many cherished recollections of the organization and early history of that branch of the Lord's vineyard. I often think of the little band of thirteen original members and of our weekly meeting, when no one of our number was absent. We are all here was a common remark amongst them at the close of the meetings." At the head ot this list of thirteen, and justly at the head, stands a woman's name which deserves to be crowned with honor - Mrs. Patience Leavens, the common ancestress of three of that original number who still walk with us, " has been lifted higher ; but her memory remains. Her devotion to the interests of the church was unwavering and intense. She made the very atmosphere of her home redolent of her zeal, and all who entered there could not but breathe it in. That devotion has its fruit to-day."

The next record, June 10, 18.54, tells of the reception of Dr. J. B. Hunt, another honored member and ruling Elder; also, Mrs. Sarah B. Hunt, Mrs. Lucretia Morton, N. W.Smith, Mrs. N. E. Smith, Mrs E. H. Jloore and Mrs. S. F. Moore, only three of this number remain with us and are faithful in their attendance upon the worship of the sanctuary, viz : Mrs. Morlan and Mr. and Mrs. ITunt ; the latter two were absent from us for some time at Mansfield, III., but returned to this church in May, 1878. Mrs. Morlan, the oldest member of the church, is quite feeble and often her pitrce is vacant in the church, and N. W. Smith, no more of earth, has had prominent and kindly mention, especially of his marked fervor and fidelity in the early prayer meetings of the church, so highly is this fellowship prized and so long do these memories last. One year later, June 10, 18.55, the following were received to membership: Mrs. IMary Harsha, Miss Alice Mc- Kiuley, Miss Isabel MeKinley. On October 14, 1855, Samuel H. Stevenson, Mrs MiiiervaF. Stevenson, Mrs. Nancy J. Sloat, Miss Eliza M. Smith and ]Miss Lucretia Morlan were added. April 13, 1856, fourteen more were added, and in this list the familar names of Dr. T. K. Edraeston, T. S. Dickerson, and L. D. Hovey ; from this point the record begins to grow voluminous, we cannot follow them further. It is a pleasing mark of the early tendency to Christian sympathy between the churches, now so notable, that this church was organized in the house of worship of the M. E. Church. Afterward divine service was held with great regularity in the court-house; then, for a season, in the Baptist church, and then in an old hall. During part of this time, the prayer meetings, so often and so warmly named, were held in an old frame building on Centre street, south of the square. At last, however, after some five or sis years of waiting and working, lols were secured on the corner of '\^''ashington and Madison streets, and a house of worship was erected, the building we new use. The ladies bought the lots, paying for them two hundred and fifty hard earned dollars The building cost about 84,500. It being in the year 1859, during the hardest times this section of country has ever seen, the church being feeble and receiving almost no assistance outside of the community save 8250 from the Presbyterian Church Extension treasury. The task proved very heavy. One, even at this late day, recounts the difficulty in paying subscriptions, the resort to notes, to the trading of papers, and diver^- unusual expedients. Another, having acted as treasurer and paymaster, tells of window-frames, etc., coming from Chicago in several successive lots, and urgently needed bv the builders, while yet there was no money on hand with which to wrest the materials from the clutches of the forwarding company. Somebody's subscription grew vastly larger than it was intended to be by " advancing " payments on the.«e importations. Then came the regular weekly payments to the workmen. The treasurer was very busy on Saturdays ; there was usually no money on hand. But there were subscriptions and notes, and notf s and subscriptions I Then came in a system of due-bills on the tradesmen of the town, so that after much worry and work each Saturday night closed down upon" an arrangement " of some sort, satisfactory or otherwise. So, also, at last, through much toil, anxiety, and liberality, and much prayer, this commodious house was completed, and opened for divine service with the burden of but a very small debt, which has long since been removed. The history of this church seems to divide itself into three epochs. The first closed, say in 1860 or soon after, with the erection of and full and final payment for the church edifice. This was the periodof foundation-laying, a time of much labor, marked by unity of feeling and effort, of much attention to strangers, and of great prosperity in the prayer meetings especially. Yet, externally, these were the days of small things. This epoch covered about seven years. The second epoch seems to have fairly opened with the coming of Rev. H. C. McCook, in 1S61 ; although qpt installed, he seems from the records to have been a resident pastor, and the first one giving his whole time to this field. His service covered nearly three years, and was marked by the begining of a rapid and substantial grosvth. He was followed by Rev. A. J. Clark, and he by Rev. A. D. White, who seems to have shared to the full extent in the prosperity of this epoch, which was nearing its close upon Jlr. White's departure in 1870. The membership increased from about 60 in 1860, to 161, as reported, in 1871 - the largest membership the church has ever had at any one time- After this, during the service of Rev. J. A. j Piper, which closed in 1874, the church nobly held and developed what strength had been brought within her grasp. During the six years ending April, 1, 1874, the contributions of the church amounted to 817,321, of which 83,304 was given to agencies of benevolence. These purely benevolent contributions averaged 8551 per year. Since this time the contributions of the church for all purposes have averaged about 82,200 per year. The church has had the stated services of twelve ministers, including our present pastor, viz :

12. Rev. (;)scar B. Thayer, from July 1, 1881, who was installed pastor Nov. 3, 1881, by a commiitee from the Presbytery of Bloomington, Revs. R. Conover, J. Payson Mills, and Adam W. Ringland.

The roster of ruling elders exhibits the following names : - 1. J. B. McKinley. 2. J. B. Hunt. 3. T. E. Dickerson 4. Wm. Haynie. 5. Henry Crosley. 6. D. Edmiston. 7. G. W. Harden. 8. Smith Minturn. 9. B. L. Colwell. 10. L. D. Hovey. 11. S. F. Lewis. 12. J. J. Kelly. 13. EmmettKent. 14. \V. B. Rundle. Of these, Messrs. Colwell, Dickerson, Hunt, Lewis, Kent and Rundle constitute the present session. Messrs. McKinley, Ilaynie, Edmiston, Hovey and Kelly have moved away. Messrs. H. Crosley and Col. Smith Jlinturn have gone to their reward, and Mr. G, W. Haj-den is still with us. Following is the list of deacons: - 1. G. W. Philips. 2. G. W. Martin. 3. Emmett Kent. 4. W. B. Rundle. 5. Robert Ualker. 6. W. E. Kirker. 7. M. D. Irwin. 8. M. M. De Levis. Of these, Martin has removed from our midst; Mr. G. W. Philips has gone to his reward, and Kent and Rundle are ruling eldtr» ; and the last four constitute the present board of deacons. The financial report shows how well the work has been done, but not at what cost and self-sacrifice. A complete list of all the trustees is not at hand.

During these twenty-eight years the ordinance of Baptism has been administered to 90 adults, and to 110 infants, or to 200 persons in all. Members have been received in all as follows : I'pon examinati'in, 220; upon certificate, 207; or 427 in all - an average of more than 15 per year.

Of these 427 members, 42 have died, 200 have removed with letters of dismission, 25 have gone without letters, 20 are absent or unaccounted for and placed on the reserved roll, and the remaining 140 are still with us and faithful. A Sabbath-school in this church was organized several years ago and has been maintained.

Elm Grove Presbyterian church, situated in Barnett township, De Witt county, about nine miles north-west from Clinton, was organized June 8th, 1872, by a committee from the Presbytery of Bloomington, Revs. Samuel Hart and A. L. Knox, and Elder William Haynie, - the following persons being present by letter from the Presbyterian church of Waynesville : - Thos. C. Robb, Margaret L. Robb, E. H. Robb, Clarissa J. Robb, Carmi Goodrich, Margaret Goodrich, Z. D. Cantrill, Susan Cantrill, H. B. Jones, Matilda Jones, John H. Adams, John E. Brittan, Jacob Leper, Martha Leper, G. B. Smith, Almeda Smith. James Jones, Nancy Jones, John E. Bradley, Sarah J. Bradley, G W. Hoffman, L. .\. Hoffman, E. L. Hoffman, Laura A. Hoffman, S A. Graham, Sallie Graham, A. W. Bell, Elizabeth Bell, Susan Milsted. Flora J. Goodrich, Isidora Bradley, Deborah Ingham, George R. Ingham, J. H. Robb, Charles Robb, Peter L. Robb, Perry Robb, S. B. Clayton, J. M. Goodrich, D. W. Lauterman, B. S. Lauterman, George W. Wright, Alexander Stewart, and Henry Graham, Miss Tillie Adair (now Mrs. John Adams), from the United Presbyterian Church of Sunbury, Pa. - 45 members in all.

Feb. 16, 1873, Mrs. Susan Cantrill, Miss Sarah Ida Brittan, and Miss Martha Robb were admitted on examination. March 1, 1873, George W. :Mabury, Carmi G. Cantrill, Henry A. Goodrich, Willis B. Morse, Robt. B. Banks, and Miss Emma Brittan were added on examination ; Thomas W. Hull aud Maggie Hull on certificate. August 17, 1S73, Miss Sarah J. Adair on certificate. May 17, 1874, J. T. Jones on certificate. December 15, 1875, Perry Robb was dismissed by letter. Aug. 21, 1876, Thos. 0. Robb, Margaret Robb, and Martha Robb were dismissed by letter to Presbyterian church at Lincoln, Ills., and Miss Sarah J. Adair to the U. P. church, Chicago, Ills. April 23, 1877, A. t^tewart to the M. E. church of Waynesville, Ills. June 3, 1877, James E. Longbrake Edgar H. Williams, Henry M. Teal, and Mrs. Ida JI. Teal were added on examination. June 7, 1877, John H. Adams and Sam'l A.Graham were elected ruling elders. Z. D. Cantrill having re>igned. E. H. Robb, G. B. Smith and A. W. Bell were elected trustees for two years. June 16, 1877, Mrs. Sarah A Longbrake and Mr. William Ellis were admitted on examination. Jan. 26, 1879, Mr. Cieorge W. Wright dismissed to church at Miron, Ind. April 10, 1880, letters of dismission to Elder J. H. Adams, Matilda Adams and Edgar Adams to Presbyterian church of Apjileton City, Mo. ; J. W^. Leper and Martha Leper to Presbyterian church at Waynesville, Illinois ; James T. Jones to M. E. church, Pilot Grove, Mi.^soiiri.

Since the organization of this church with forty-five members, there have been added on examination fifteen, and on certificate four - making a total of sixty-four members; of which thirteen have received letters of dismission, ten have left without letters, and removed without the bounds of this church; and there are about ten who do not attend to any of the church meetings or take any part in the support of the gospel of this church - leaving the present membership to be nominally thirty-one. Of these only a few are active members, and only one elder, to bear the most of the expense of the church, viz : J. E Brittan, who has tver been faithful to the blaster's cause

Sabbath-school has been maintained in this church pretty regularly since its organization, except in some of the winter seasons, and has proved to be a benefit to the neighborhood, as we find that accessions have been made from its number to the church. The ministers who have served this church are: Revs. S. V. McKee, J. AV. McDonald, S. A. Stevenson, W. AV. Faris, and A. H. Bates. These have spent a part of their time with this church and the church at W^aynesville, except Rev. W. W. Faris, who was pastor of the Presbyterian church at Clinton and supplied the pulpit about once a month. The church at present is without a supply, but arrangements are being made for a supply soon.

The first Presbyterian Church ever organized in wliat is now De Witt county, was organized at Waynesville, June 25, 1836, (Waynesville then being a part of McLean county,) by a committee appointed by the Presbytery of Sangamon, Rev. Lemuel Foster ; Rev. Flavel Bascom being absent. The following persons being received by letters from other churches, viz. : Joshua Cantrill aud Rachel, his wife, Samuel Baker and Margaret, his wife, Zebulon G. Cantrill and Sarah, his wife, Zebulon Cantrill and Polly, his wife, AVm. Dye and Nancy, his wife, John Robb and Barbara, his wife, William Cintrill and IS'aiicy, his wife, John S. Polk, Mary M. Polk, Mrs. Mary Dunham, Mrs. Minerva Mclntire, Mrs. Mary Atchison, Mrs. Eliza Dunham, Zebulon P. Cantrill, Levi Cantrill, Polly Cantrill, Nancy Cantrill aud Mrs Mahala Hull. The above named persons adopted the following as their Covenant; " You do now in the presence of God his holy angels and this assembly avouch, the Lord Jehovah to be your God. God the Father to be your Father and preserver. God the Son to be your intercessor and Saviour. God the Holy Ghost to be your sanctifier and comforter, and the word of God to be your only rule of Faith and practice. And you do now solemnly dedicate and give up yourselves and all you have to him, confessing that your sins deserve his wrath and trusting solely in his mercy through Christ for pardon and salvation. You cheerfully promise that you will rely on the proflTered and needful aids of his Spirit for the discharge of every duty, and lead a life of piety and devotion toward CJod, of sobriety and watchfulness towards yourselves and of uprightness and benevolence toward men ; that you will seek the glory of God, and the prosperity of the Redeemer's Kingdom as your supreme object, and that you will take Christ for your example, and walk with his people all the days of your life. And since he has appointed spiritual administrations such as sacrament^ to seal, signify and exhibit the benefits of his death and purchase ; also administrations for the disorderly, censures for oflfenders, consolation for the penitent ; teaching quickenings, exhortations, brotherly watchfulness and church discipline for the perfecting of the saints ; you faithfully covenant that you will yield your influence and support, and cheerfully submit to the regular dispensation of all these in the church of Christ ; that you will walk in love and charity with its members and consciencioiisly labor to promote its purity, peace, unity and edification till in the proyidenc! of God your relation with it shall be dissolved."

With an affecting belief that your vows are recorded on high and will be reviesved in the day of final judgment, to this covenant you give your cordial assent.