Logan County, Illinois - Chapter 29: Ecclesiastical, 1911 (part 1 of 2)

Chapter 29: Ecclesiastical

For a number of years after the first settlement in Logan County there were no church buildings. Services were held in a variety of places. The log cabin of the early settler was the usual sanctuary. Barns built with large threshing floors were often used and when a school house was puilt it was nearly always utilized for religious services. In agreeable weather, preaching frequently took place out of doors under the shade of a tree or in the timber "in God's first temple."" Out of door services, however, were usually of the camp meeting order, which was a popular form of church service in the early days. These would sometimes last for weeks and were the occasions of great religious excitement.

The itinerant method of pastorate was necessary and universal. The church organizations were few in membership, poor in means and widely scattered. It was many years before they were able to support a settled pastor. The circuit plan was everywhere in vogue and the ministers of all churches belonged to "the traveling connection." In many instances, their pulpit efforts partook of the same character. Their preaching was doctrinal, polemical and hortatory. They had deep convictions of the doctrines they proclaimed. They offered no apology for them and did not undertake to make their presentation particularly attractive or interesting, nor did they attempt to mitigate their severity. Fierce controversies arose over contending doctrines and Armenian and Calvinist, pedobaptist and smmersionist went into the pulpit with their war paint on, prepared to prove their respective doctrines by the word of God.

Pioneer Preachers

The first pioneer preachers who came through what is now Logan County were itinerants whose circuits included the entire central portion of the state. These were largely of the Methodist denomination, although the Baptists were the first who established regular preaching points in the county. The Christians or Disciples also obtained quite a foothold during rhe thirties. Probably the first early preachers of a local character were

Michael Mann and Hiram Bowman, both Baptists. Michael Mann came from Ohio in 1826 and Hiram Bowman came from the same state about two years later. They settled in what is now Atlanta township. The oldest continuous church organization in Logan County was organized by them in 1830 and was known as the Big Grove Baptist church. A sketch of this historic church will be noted under the subsequent heading 'The Atlanta Baptist Church." ,

Prior to 1830, there were practically no regular church organizations in the county, although services had been held at the residence of old settlers in the Lake Fork country before that time. Mrs. Mary Buckles in a letter to the Old Settlers' Association in 1885, recalls a three days' service held under the trees in their neighborhood by A. J. Kane, whose headquarters were at Springfield. Preaching services were also held in the Musick neighborhood on Sugar creek for a number of years by two preachers of what was known as "'the new light" persuasion, whose names were Messrs. Hughes and Black. During the thirties, however, the various denominations became quite active and church organizations sprang into existence in various portions of the county.

One of the earliest Methodist itinerants in the county was Rev. Wm. S. Deneen, who was pastor of what was known as the Salt Creek circuit of Sagamon County in 1829. His son was professor of languages in Mc- Kendree college and his grandson is now governor of Illinois. Another early Methodist itinerant was Rev. Samuel H. Martin, who came to IIlinois from Maryland in 1837. He had the distinction of preaching the first sermon in the Postville court house in 1840. He had previously held services in private houses. He organized the Postville Methodist church in 1840, was pastor of the old Postville circuit, organized Methodist societies at Elkhart, Middletown and other portions of the county and was at one time in charge of the Mt. Pulaski circuit, when it included all the Methodist churches in the county. He died in 1896 at the age of 78. In early days, substantially all the well known Illinois Methodist pioneer preachers ministered at times to the faithful of their denomination in Logan County. A Methodist church was organized at the house of James Downing in Pleasant Valley in what is now Chester township in 1835. Among the earlier Methodist preachers who were connected with the Postville circuit was Hardin Wallace, who assisted Mr. Martin in 1840, Daniel H. Halton, who was in charge of the circuit in 1844, Samuel P. Burr and Richard Bird. Three famous Methodist pioneer preachers frequently held services during the thirties and forties at Postville, namely, Peter Cartwright, Peter Akers and W. R. D. Trotter. All three were presiding elders of the district at different times. Further reference will be made to Peter Cartwright. Peter Akers was a great Biblical scholar and well known throughout the Mississippi valley. Mr. Trotter was a son-in-law of Peter Cartwright and preached in the court room of the Postville court house before it was seated. Other early Methodist itinerants in the county in the thirties were William Royal, John E. French, Zadock Hall, John Shepherd, Simon Peter, John Sinclair, Henry Maynard, John Morris and S. W. Chase. To these may be added the following whose period of service began in the forties: Gabriel Watt, Joel E. King, Enoch G. Falconer, John A. Brittenham, J. L. Green, Joseph Lane, J. C. Baker, J. S. Barger, W. Pitner, C. D. James, William Lee, James Overstreet and Sampson Shinn.

The first church of the Christian or Disciples denomination and perhaps the first in Illinois, north of the Sangamon river, was organized in what is now Eminence township in 1838. A sketch of this church organization will be found in its appropriate place. In 1844, Alexander Campbell visited this church and held special services. Among the pioneer preachers of this denomination in the county were Hugh Bowles, William Mallory, Walter P. Bowles, Alfred Lindsey, Abner Pieler, William B. Ryan, James Lindsey, Henry D. Palmer, Amos Watkins, George W. Minier, Leroy Skelton, James Robinson, William Davenport, P. G. Young, John England and L. M. Robinson. Robert Foster, an eccentric Christian preacher, organized a church in the Lake Fork country in 1839.

In addition to Hiram Bowman and Michael Mann, among the pioneer Baptist preachers were Benjamin Davis, John Taylor, Jonathan Merriam, Joel Hulsey, Lewis Morgan, N. Alwood, H. D, Mason and A. S. Dennison. Mathias Ambrose was an early preacher in the United Brethren denomination, beginning his ministerial work in 1833. He was a presiding elder for thirty years and died at Latham in 1883. John Roach was an early preacher of the Cumberland Presbyterian faith. A. H. Goodpasture, who died in 1885, had been an itinerant preacher since 1835. A Presbyterian society was organized and a church erected at Middletown as early as 1835. Catholic clergymen from St. Louis also came in early days and held services at private houses.

Peter Cartwright

As has already been noted, Peter Cartwright was presiding elder of the particular district of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which were included the Logan County churches of that denomination, and in his itinerancy in that capacity frequently visited the Methodist churches in the county. The old court house in Postville ofttimes rang with his rugged eloquence. In his earlier days he was a follower of the race track and a gambler. In 1801, he mended his ways and became a Methodist exhorter. His ministerial career, after taking regular orders, covered a period of 65 years, 50 years of which he was a presiding elder. He was a chaplain in General Jackson's army at the Battle of New Orleans Several years later while preaching in Nashville, Tenn., General Jackson came into the church and being annoyed by the interruption, Cartwright, after a moment's pause said: "Yes, that's General Jackson, but he will go to hell the same as any one else, if he don't repent." He was an uncompromising democrat and was the candidate for congress in the district of which Logan County was a part in 1846, his whig opponent being Abraham Lincoln. He had previously defeated Lincoln for the legislature. Cartwright served two terms in the Illinois legislature, but his politics did not interfere with his spiritual duties.

Peter Cartwright lectured at the Methodist Episcopal church in Lincoln, April 14, 1862, on the state of the country, he being at that time, seventy-seven years of age. In that lecture he declared himself a Douglas man "up to the hub," but said that since the war had broken out he had no party and had given himself "entirely to his country and his Creator." An event of great importance in the Methodist history of Logan County was the "Cartwright jubilee" which occurred at the M. E. church in Lincoln, Sept. 24, 1869, in connection with the annual session of the Illinois conference held in Lincoln that year. This jubilee was held in compliance with a resolution passed at the conference a year prior, to the effect that "Whereas, Rev. Peter Cartwright, if he should live, will at the end of next year, have been a presiding elder for fifty years and as he is the only man that has ever occupied that position for so great a length of time and in view of his age, experience and great labors, Resolved, that H. Buck, J. H. Moore and W. E. Johnson be a committee to arrange a jubilee to be held during the conference session of 1869 in Dr. Cartwright's honor."

The exercises were held in Gillett's hall, in Lincoln, which was crowded to its utmost. Dr. Buck called the meeting to order and nominated Rev. Newton Cloud as chairman. Religious exercises were conducted by Revs. Rutledge and Barger. Mr. Hooper, secretary of the conference, then read the appointments of Dr. Cartwright from the time he had first entered the ministry, 65 years before. A congratulatory address was delivered by Dr. Peter Akers, in which he paid high tribute to Dr. Cartwright. The address was answered by Dr. Cartwright in that peculiar manner which gave him such a name for eccentricity. At the evening session he was the recipient of numerous presents. Among them were a silver set of 33 pieces presented by the citizens of Decatur, a Turkish chair presented by Gov. R. J. Ogelsby, a gold headed cane, gold spectacles, gold and silver ware, photograph album containing photographs of the ministers of the conference, etc. Three years after this jubilee, Peter Cartwright passed away, being over 80 years of age.

An historical sketch of the various church organizations in Logan County are here given, the respective denominations being treated in alphabetical order: pecial notice. It was organized in 1830, at the house of Hiram Bowman, its first pastor, in what was known as the Big Grove timber, on Kickapoo creek, in what is now Atlanta township. It was known as the Big Grove Baptist church. Michael Mann, another pioneer Baptist preacher, assisted in the organization. The original membership numbered fourteen, of which John Hoblit was chosen deacon and Samuel Hoblit, clerk. Messrs Bowman and Mann were old school Baptists, who were vigorously opposed to the missionary movement as well as the paying of salaries to pastors, and the church was organized in accordance with their views. In August of 1838, Mr. Bowman was succeeded as pastor by J. D. Newell and at the same meeting where Mr. Newell was selected a resolution was passed that "the church agree that her members shall have their liberty of conscience respecting assisting their minister or for missionary purposes if they choose.'' About this time a settlement of a number of families, with store and blacksmith shop, had been made at what was called New Castle and here in 1839 the society built a house of worship changing the name of the organization to the New Castle Baptist church. The same year the church took upon themselves the support of the pastor and pledged $100 for the support of missions, and in 1841 adopted new articles of faith, among which was the following: "We believe it the duty of members of the church to contribute to the support of the ministry according to their ability." Following Mr. Newell's pastorate, which continued until 1840, the following early preachers officiated as pastors of the church until 1855: Joel Hulsey, Jonathan Merriam, Lewis Morgan, M. Alvord, H. D. Mason, Z. Hall and A. S. Dennison. These preachers held service once a month during their pastorates, but some five or six years between the pastorates the church was without a regular minister.

The town of Atlanta was laid out in 1853 and by 1855 had become a sprightly town. The inhabitants of New Castle moved to Atlanta, abandoning the old settlement and the New Castle Baptist society thereupon disposed of the old meeting house at New Castle and in 1855, erected a new church edifice in Atlanta, changing the name of the society to the Atlanta Baptist church. The new building was 48 by 60 feet in dimensions, with a gallery opposite the pulpit. The trustees of the church at this time were Elias Harness, Samuel Bevan, Jerome B. Tenney, Samuel Hoblit and George M. Angell. In the spring of 1856, Rev. E. J. Thomas became the regular pastor of the church and continued in that capacity until the early part of 1867, preaching every Sunday, with few exceptions. To the great regret of the members of the society in 1867, he declined to further serve as pastor. Since Mr. Thomas' resignation, the following pastors have served the church at different times: G. W. Benton, 1867-68; A. M. Hunt, 1868-70; Dr. J. D. Cole, 1870-72; J. B. Hutton, 1873-77; J. W. Primm, 1877-82; William Swinden, 1882-86; C. E. Taylor, 1887-91; W. H. Kingsbury, 1891-93; H. J.

On New Year's morning of 1872, the church erected in 1855 was destroyed by fire, entailing a loss of about $4,000 and from that time until 1886, the congregation held services in the Congregational and Cumberland Presbyterian churches. In July of 1885, the contract for erecting a new church building was let-for the sum of $3,200, the building to be 36 by 50 feet in dimensions, with an addition on the west end of 16 by 48 feet. This building was completed in 1886 and was dedicated March 21, 1886. Rey. E. J. Thomas presided at the exercises and Dr. A. Kendrick, president of Shurtleff college, delivered the dedicatory sermon. The entire cost of the building, including memorial windows, furnishings and furnace amounted to $4,146, every dollar of which was subscribed for before the building was dedicated. A bell was afterwards placed in the tower. The church has an endowment of $2,700, the original amount of which was left the church in the wills of Samuel Hoblit and Samuel Bevan, each bequeathing the sum of $1,000 as a trust fund. The society own a commodious parsonage.

First Baptist Cuurcu, Lincotn: The First Baptist church was organized March 10, 1856, with eleven members: J. C. Webster, Charles B. Hukill, George F. Stillman, Jane M. Stillman, Solomon Z. Millard, Robert Snow, William Patterson, Margaret Patterson, Ezra Boren, Joseph F. Benner and Robert Wilson. The organization meeting was held in the old First Ward school house on Clinton street. Rev. Thomas C. Reese was the organizer and first pastor. The first trustees were G. F. Stillman, Charles B. Hukill, Joseph F. Benner, William Patterson and Ezra Boren. On Sept. 12, 1856, the society purchased two lots on Fourth street, cornering on Maple street, and the next year built a small brick church on the lots. In 1866, this building was sold to St. Mary's Catholic parish for $2,900, and the Baptist society then purchased the property now owned by them on the corner of Broadway and Union streets at a cost of $1,200. The same year they erected on this property a commodious frame church, with a seating capacity of 400, at a cost of $6,000. This structure was dedicated April 21, 1867, Dr. Reed, of Shurtleff college, delivering the dedicatory address. .

This society has just erected a magnificent new church on the site of the building erected in 1867. The new structure cost, complete, about $22,000. It is 88 by 62 feet in dimensions, built of dark vitrified brick and trimmed with Bedford stone. The entire seating capacity is about 600, the auditorium seating 300, the Sunday school room 290 and the gallery 110. On the main floor is found the auditorium, Sunday school room, gallery, three primary rooms, five class rooms, baptistry, two robing rooms and pastor's study. The basement contains parlor, dining room, kitchen, work room and heating plant. The entire structure is finished in yellow pine and is modern in every detail. The corner stone was laid Nov. 19, 1909, the address being delivered by Rev. H. J. Ballentyne. The dedication exercises occurred July 10, 1910. The building committee were A. E. Brown, H. H. Henry, C. R. Corwine, W. E. Beach and Eliza Forbis.

LatHam Baptist CHurcH: The Latham Baptist church had its origin in an organization effected at the Two Mile Grove school house, on section eleven in what is now Lake Fork township, Jan. 26, 1854. The original members were J. C. Webster, Mary Webster, Andy Simpson, Arminda Simpson, R. J. Cunningham, Abigail Cunningham, William Dorcas, Mary and George Norton. The first trustees were Andy Simpson, Harrison Allison and Henry Hall. R. J. Cunningham was the first deacon and J. C. Webster clerk. Rev. Mr. Gibbs was the first pastor. The first meetings were held in private families but later a log church was built on the bank of the Lake Fork, which was known as the Myrtle Tree church. Upon the Peoria, Lincoln & Decatur railroad being laid through the county in 1871, and the town of Latham staked off a distance of less than two miles away, it was decided to remove the place of worship to Latham. A lot in Latham was donated by Edwin A. Joynt and in 1873 a church was erected thereon at a cost of $2,550. Since 1873, the following pastors have served the church: Reverends Robinson, Mattack, Johnston, Hadlock, Wilson, Godfrey, Hutton, Coon, Root, Hawkins, McArthur, Winchell, Roach, Sage, Chandler Hicks, Monroe, Claxton, Hoover, Hanks, Johns, Ford and Kellogg. The present pastor is Albert Ford and the present trustees are Robert Buckles, J. N. Vaughan, Harriet Allison and Walter Hall.

AFRICAN Baptist CHurcH, Lincotn: The African Baptist church of Lincoln was organized in April of 1874. The first pastor was Rev. G. M. Davis. A church building was erected on Broadway, near Sherman

Catholic

Previous to 1857, the Catholic communicants of Postville and Lincoln were attended by priests from Chicago, Springfield and Peoria. Services were held at an early date at the home of Patrick DeWitt in Postville and James Coogan in Lincoln. Among the visiting priests were Father Thomas Kennedy, of Chicago, and Father Hurley, of Peoria, the latter holding services once a month in Lincoln during the year 1856. Through Father Hurley's efforts a small frame church was built, in the spring of 1857, on the corner of Broadway and Sherman streets and in this church, services were held until about 1866. Among the early communicants in the parish were Michael Baker, Nicholas Baker, William Shea, John Sullivan, James Coogan, Michael McNullin, Terrence Smith, Michael Egan, W. Knochel, Richard Norris, Patrick Connor, Patrick, John and Michael DeWitt, John Dewire, John and Patrick Savage, William Burke, H. Toomey, John Cavanaugh, William Fogarty, Simon Rock, Mr. Fitzgerald, Mr. Hassenstab and others. The first settled pastor was Father Thomas Meagher, of Columbus, Ohio, who took charge of the parish in 1858. In 1860, he was succeeded by Father G. A. Martin, who was succeeded in 1865 by Father Edward Herman, the latter serving as parish priest until the fall of 1867.

In 1866, the church building erected in 1857 was sold to the city of Lincoln for a school house and purchase was then made of the building occupied by the Baptist Church society, on the corner of Fourth and Maple streets, the consideration for the latter being $2,900. By 1867 the congregation had grown so large that it was deemed advisable by the church authorities to divide the church into two distinct parishes, one for the German speaking communicants and one for the English speaking portion. The former retained the old church under the name of St. Mary's parish, and Father William Nettstraetter was appointed as priest in charge of the same. At the same time Father Thomas Burke was placed in charge of the English speaking portion of the congregation, known as St. Patrick's parish.

St. Mary's Cuurcy, Lincotn: Following the church division above noted, which occurred Sept. 11, 1867, the following trustees were selected for St. Mary's parish: Simon Rock, Alvis Gaus, Martin Spitly, Bernard Sigg. The priest in charge, Father William Nettstraetter, served in that capacity until May of 1872, when he was succeeded by Father F. Heskeman, Father Nettstraetter, being transferred to Wilmette, Father Heskeman officiated about six months, when he was succeeded by Father Andrew Michel. The latter remained two years and was succeeded by Father Anton Schmitz, who remained three years, when he was transferred to Canada. Father F. X. Heller had charge of the parish from January to May of 1878, when he was succeeded by Father Conrad Rotter. Under the ministrations of Father Rotter, a new brick church edifice of large proportions was erected on lots purchased on Fourth street, opposite the old church, the old church being converted into a parochial school. The corner stone of the new structure was laid April 27, 1879, Bishop Spalding, of Peoria, delivering the address, The church was dedicated Oct. 26, 1879, dedicatory mass being celebrated by Father Anthony, of Peoria. Bishop Spalding spoke in the afternoon and confirmed 55 persons. This edifice has the largest seating capacity of any church building in the city, the body of the church seating about 700 and there being a spacious gallery at the north end. The church tower is equipped with three bells, the largest weighing 1,675 pounds and being 44 inches in diameter. A commodious brick parsonage was also, erected about the same time, adjacent to the church.

Father Rotter was also instrumental in establishing St. Clara's Hospital, which was instituted July 9, 1884, and which is referred to at length in the chapter on "Charitable Institutions." A sketch of St. Mary's parochial school building will also be found in the chapter on "City Schools.' Father Rotter also organized St. Martin's Benevolent Society. He left the Lincoln charge Aug. 1, 1884, to take charge of the St. Joseph's society, at Peoria, where he subsequently died. His successor was Father B. Baak, who was rector for nearly two years, when he was succeeded by Father Charles Hout. During Father Hout's rectorship in 1887, the new church tower was erected at a cost of $6,000. Father Hout served as rector for four years and a half, when he was succeeded by Father Charles Rimmels. The latter was succeeded by Father Henry Boers, who was appointed Oct. 26, 1893, and who served until his death, which occurred at Lincoln, Jan. 29, 1902. Succeeding Father Boers, came the present rector Father C. A. Reidel. Under Father Reidel's ministrations, the interior of the church structure has been entirely remodeled at a cost of several thousands of dollars and the indebtedness formally upon the church has been liquidated. The interior decorations of the church are handsome and artistic.

Sr. Patrick's CHurcH, LINcoLn: At the time of the division of the Catholic congregation in 1867, Father Thomas Burke was appointed to take charge of the parish, with which the English speaking portion of the congregation were to be henceforth affiliated. The parish was known as St. Patrick's parish. The German speaking congregation had retained the old church building on Fourth street, paying the St. Patrick's parish $1,600 for their interest in the building. With this as a nucleus, the latter parish purchased a lot on the corner of Union and Eleventh streets and erected a small frame church building thereupon and here services were held until 1874. Father Burke was succeeded as priest in 1869 by Father Patrick Dalton. In 1873 Father Dalton was succeeded by Father

Thomas P. Hodnett. Father Hodnett remained about a year when he was transferred to Dixon. Later Father Hodnett was appointed as rector of one of the largest churches in Chicago and he died in 1910, one of the best known Catholic clergyman in the Mississippi Valley. Father Hodnett was succeeded as parish priest of St. Patrick's by Father Joseph Costa, who took charge in 1875.

In 1874, the present site of St. Patrick's church on Logan street, between Clinton and Decatur streets, was purchased and the old building on Union street was removed to this site. Here it was repaired and refurnished. A school house was built at the rear and here in 1875 Father Costa founded the first Catholic parochial school in Lincoln. A priest's house was also erected on adjoining lots. The church and school house cost about $4,000. In August of 1877, Father James Tuohy was transferred from Macomb to Lincoln, succeeding Father Costa and he continued as priest in charge of St. Patrick's for twenty-four years, until his death, which occurred Feb. 12, 1901. In 1881, sixteen acres of land were purchased to be used as a cemetery in connection with the parish. The cemetery was consecrated in 1882 by Bishop Spalding and given the name of Holy Cross. In 1887, the present commodious parochial school building was erected on Third street, reference to which will be found in the chapter on "City Schools." A new parochial residence was erected during Father Tuohy's ministry at a cost of $6,000.

Father Tuohy was succeeded in July of 1901 by the present priest in charge, Father J. T. Mulgrew. The church was in debt to the amount of about $4,000, which was liquidated in about a year after Father Mulgrew took charge. In addition he undertook the erection of a new church building, which was begun in 1903 and was dedicated Nov. 6, 1904. The new church building cost about $25,000 and is of the Romanesque style of architecture. It is of red pressed brick, massive in outline, with the outer walls heavily buttressed. The interior decorations and appointments are rich and magnificent. The altar rail is of heavy marble, supported on polished brass posts. The electrical effects are especially noteworthy. The auditorium seats about 600. The building is 53 by 112 feet in dimensions. It was dedicated by Bishop Spalding, solemn high mass being celebrated by Father O'Reilly of Peoria.

St. Patrick's CHurcH, ELKHART: St. Patrick's church of Elkhart was established in 1856. Twice during that year, Rev. Thomas Kennedy, of the Chicago diocese, made visits to Elkhart and celebrated mass. In 1857, Rev. Father Maher, of Bloomington, said mass at the home of John Bushel, which stood near where the Chicago & Alton depot now stands. Father Maher continued to visit Elkhart until 1861, administering the sacrament at Mr. Rigney's house, which stood in the Gillett grove. In 1863, Rev. Father Martin, of Lincoln, built the first permanent Catholic church in Elkhart. The new church was completed and dedicated in 1864 and in 1865, Rev. Father Herman, who was stationed at Lincoln, continued to hold services at the Elkhart church until 1878, the Lincoln priests who officiated in turn being Fathers Burke, Dalton, Hodnett and Costa. In 1878, Father C. M. Rimmels was appointed by Bishop Spalding as the first rector. He was succeeded in 1885 by Father Thomas Dunne and he by Father John A. Fanning, S. T. D. Doctor Fanning remained pastor until his last illness in July of 1898, when Father Thomas D. Kennedy, now of Wyoming, Ill., was appointed rector. Father W. J. Drummy, came to the parish in August of 1904 and is the present rector in charge.

St. THomas Agurnas' CHurcH, Mt. PuLasxi: As early as 1857, mass was celebrated by priests from Chicago at the house of Casper Young, in Mt. Pulaski, this house still standing about two blocks north of the Illinois Central depot. In 1860, Father Martin, of Lincoln, began to make stated visits to Mt. Pulaski and so continued in his ministrations until 1866, when he was succeeded by Father Herman, of Lincoln. In 1867, the members of the parish purchased the First Lutheran church edifice and thereafter services were held in that structure, instead of in private houses. From that time until 1880, the pastors of St. Mary's parish in Lincoln were in charge of the Mt. Pulaski mission. The Lincoln pastors, who attended the Mt. Pulaski mission, during that period were Fathers William Nettstraetter, A. Michael, Anton Schmitz, F. X. Heller and Conrad Rotter. In 1880, the mission was detached from St. Mary's parish at Lincoln and transferred to the Elkhart parish, so continuing until 1908. The Elkhart pastors, who held services at Mt. Pulaski during this period, were Fathers Charles L. Rimmels, Thomas Dunne, John A. Fanning, Thomas Kennedy and W. J. Drummy.

In 1884, John Schick, Sr., donated to the parish two lots on the corner of Lafayette and Monroe streets and here in 1886, a new frame church was erected at a cost of about $2,500, the old church purchased of the Lutherans being abandoned. During Father Kennedy's rectorship, in 1901, Father Manuel, of the Illinois diocese, while on his death-bed, sent $300 to the Mt. Pulaski parish as a nucleus for a fund to erect a third church, the one built in 1886 being inadequate. This church was erected on the old site and was dedicated April 17, 1902, by Bishop P. J. O'Reilly, of Peoria. It is a frame structure, the main building being 30 by 60 feet in dimensions, and cost about $4,000. In October of 1908, the parish was detached from Elkhart and annexed to St. Patrick's parish at Lincoln and is now under the direction of Father J. T. Mulgrew, of Lincoln.

Sr. Joun's Cuurcu, Mippteton: The St. John's church, of Middleton, also known as the "Little Child's Chapel,' has an exceedingly interesting history. Some time about the year 1906, Father Francis Kelly, of Chicago, president of the Catholic Church Extension Society and Father Roche, vice president of that body, were presenting the work of the society at the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows in Chicago. During the day's services, a children's mass was held and while it is not customary to present the extension work of the church to children, Father Roche was constrained to do so on this occasion and took occasion to tell the children the story of the building of a mission chapel in Nebraska by an eastern gentleman in memory of his two departed children. A little girl, whose father had died some months ago, leaving sufficient of an estate to place the child and her mother in good circumstances, became quite interested in the incident and entreated her mother to allow her to take $500 from what her father had left her, to be used as a nucleus in building a chapel to the memory of the deceased father. The child's entreaty was successful, the $500 was turned over to the Church Extension Fund, with the understanding that the chapel was to be built in Illinois and that the same was to be called St. John's, the given name of the child's father being John.

In the summer of 1907, Father Kelly was on the program of the Lincoln Chautauqua as a lecturer and while in Lincoln learned that there were fifteen Catholic families in Middletown, without a church. Father Kelly agreed to turn over the $500 for "the child's chapel"' to be erected at Middletown, provided that the fifteen families raise $1, 500 more to add to the $500. The gift of the little girl aroused the parish to action, with the result that not only the $1,500 was raised, but $1,000 additional and on May 3, 1908, the new church was dedicated. Rt. Rev. Peter Je O'Reilly, auxiliary bishop of the Peoria diocese, officiated at the dedication and Father Francis Kelly delivered the dedicatory sermon.

St. Mary's CaTHoric Cuurcu, ATLANTA: Catholic services were held in private homes in Atlanta as early as 1856, shortly after the establishment of the city. 1860, Father Martin, of the Lincoln parish, began to attend the parish as a mission, celebrating mass once each month. Following Father Martin, the various priests of St. Patrick's parish, of Lincoln, visited Atlanta until about the year 1880, when it was transferred as a mission from the Lincoln to the Elkhart parish. The Lincoln priests who officiated were Fathers Martin, Herman, Burke, Dalton and Tuohy. About 1880, Father Charles M. Rimmels, rector of the Elkhart parish, began to hold services at Atlanta. Under his ministrations, the present church edifice was erected in 1881 at a cost of about $1,200. He was succeeded by Father Thomas Dunne in 1887. Following Father Dunne came Fathers Fanning and Kennedy, of the Elkhart parish. Father W. J. Drummy, of Elkhart, has been the officiating priest since August of 1904.

Christian

EMINENCE CHRISTIAN CHuRCH: The second oldest continuous church organization in Logan County and probably the first church of the Christian denomination established north of the Sangamon River was organized in what is now Eminence township, on Sugar Creek, near the old historic Orendorff Mill, June 24, 1838 and was known as the Eminence Christian Church. There were 25 original members as follows: Robert Musick, John Hieronymous, Charles F. Ewing, Barbara Johnson, Mary Ewing, Malinda Hieronymous, Elizabeth Simonds, Catherine Thompson, Sarah Miller, Esther Hawes, Sarah Strong, Stephen Arnspiger, Isaac N. Ewing, John W. Hawes, Peter J. Hawes, Delilah Miles, Elizabeth Howser, Barbara Brining, Abraham Howser, Mary Howser, Samuel Waters, Sarah Musick, Mary Ann Fletcher, Susan Horine, Catherine Arnspiger, Priscilla Stroud, and Smith Stroud.

The first church building was erected during the latter part of 1838, ou a hill a little distance south and east of Morgan's Mill, formerly Orendorff's Mill. It cost $1,000, a goodly sum in those days and it was considered a remarkable edifice. The first deacons were Robert Musick and William Ryan. The pioneer ministers who preached in the church were Hugh Bowles, Walter P. Bowles, Abner Peeler, James Lindsey, Henry D. Palmer, Amos Watkins, George W. Minier, James Robinson, William Davenport and P. G. Young. In 1844, the church was visited by Alexander Campbell, the founder of the denomination, an occurrence which was a milestone in the history of the community. In 1856, a new church building was erected a mile east of Morgan's Mills, on the present church site, the old site being abandoned. This structure cost $1,600. It was used as a house of worship for 35 years, when in 1891, it was dismantled and a third church edifice erected. This latter structure had a seating capacity of 600, was handsomely furnished throughout, contained a baptistry, was heated by a furnace and cost $3,612. It was all paid for at the time of its erection.

On the night of March 18,1901, the building erected in 1891, was destroyed by fire, cause unknown. Steps were immediately taken to erect what is now the fourth and last church structure for the society. The new building was dedicated April 13, 1902. It cost about $6,000 and is a modern structure. The audience room is 36 by 50 feet, has a choir alcove, a modern bapitistry, a Sunday School room and a belfry with a bell weighing 800 pounds. In addition to the pioneer preachers already named, among those who have since ministered to the spiritual wants of the congregation are Leroy Skelton, Bailey Chapin, Elijah and Isaac Stout, Samuel and Joseph Low, L. M. Robinson, J. V. Beekman, George W. Minier, Samuel Lowe, Elders Evans, Knight, Porter and Pruitt, William Mitchell, John Lindsey, T. T. Holton, H. S. Mavity, M. F. Ingraham and A. Mendenhall.

LINCOLN CHRISTIAN CuurcH: The Christian Church society of Lincoln was organized in the fall of 1856. Prior to this, Elders John England and Walter Bowles had held meetings at French's Ford on Salt Creek, and in the Buckles' neighborhood, in barns and private houses. In 1854, Thomas H. Denny, Sr., bought a farm near the new town of Lincoln_ and settled there with his family. He influenced Elder William

Brown, a well known evangelist, to come to Lincoln and hold meetings. Elder Brown held services in a warehouse owned by Handschey & Logan near the railroad track, and later in Boren's Hall. These meetings resulted in a church organization effected as before stated, in 1856, Amos H. Denny, Sr., and Hopkins C. Judy being chosen as elders and John M. Edwards and Charles H. Miller as deacons. The original organization consisted of about 30 members. A lot on Pekin street between Kickapoo and McLean streets, the site of the present church, was donated by Messrs. Latham, Gillett and Hickox, the proprietors of the original town of Lincoln. Here a church building was erected, which was completed at a cost of $3,500 and dedicated in 1857, Dr. J. M. Allen, of Eureka, delivering the address. David Blain was the contractor for the building. The church was just completed in time to be used by Judge David Davis as a a temporary court room, this being necessitated by the fire that had 'recently destroyed the court house.

A modern new church edifice was erected in 1904, upon the site of the one built in 1857, at a cost of $16,600. The church is a brick structure, finished throughout with oak. It has an auditorium capable of seating 600 persons, with an annex, connected with same by sliding doors, capable of seating 400 more. It contains a Sunday School room and pastor's study on the first floor, reception rooms on the second floor, and dining room, kitchens and furnaces in the basement, with a large baptistry under the pulpit. It was built under the pastorate of W. H. Cannon and the contractor was John A. Simpson. It was dedicated Sept. 11, 1904, free of all debt, the dedicatory addresses being delivered by Dr. Charles R. Scoville, of Chicago, and Elders T. T. Holton and W. H. Cannon. Succeeding Elder William Brown, the first pastor, the following ministers have served as pastors: J. M. Allen, Alexander Johnson, Allen Rice, Charles J. Berry, J. S. Sweeney, George Owens, B. W. Johnson, Richard Johnson, T. V. Berry, H. D. Clark, George W. Minier, S. C. Humphrey, R. A. Gilchrist, S. H. Bundy, T. T.. Holton, T. F. Weaver, Albert Nichols and W. H. Cannon. The present pastor is E. A. Gilliland.

ATLANTA CHRISTIAN CHURCH: The Christian Church of Atlanta, was organized in 1855, shortly after the laying out of the town. It was organized by Elder George W. Minier with an original membership of twenty-four. A lot was purchased on the corner of Third and Maple streets and a church erected thereon in 1856. The trustees at the time of the purchase were C. F. Ewing, Jefferson Howser and Jefferson Britt. A new belfry was built in 1869 and the church entirely remodeled in 1889 at a cost of $2,500. The following have served as pastors of the church: George W. Minier, Leroy Skelton, John Lindsey, J. W. Monser, Samuel Lowe, T. T. Holton, R. D. Cotton, J. A. Seaton, R. B. Chaplain, B. O. Aylesworth, S. H. Bundy and L. G. Thompson.

on the west side of the Mt. Pulaski square and at the close of the meetings organized the society of the Mt. Pulaski Christian Church. Only two of the original members now survive, namely, Mrs. Caroline Snyder and Mrs. Amanda Pumpelly. Among the first elders of the church were Alfred Samms and Samuel Turley. In 1870, a lot was purchased by the society and a church edifice erected thereon at a cost of about $2,000. In 1906, this building gave way to a more pretentious and modern structure built at a cost of about $9,000. This building was erected during the pastorate of D. A. Lindsey. Among those who have served the church as regular pastors are Elders Hutchison and Weakly, and Elders J. E. Cain, Elisha Craig, J. E. Diehl, Ripley Elder, C. B. Dabney, Baily Chaplin, T. E. Fisher, George Cline, L. C. Goodrich, D. A. Lindsey and Elders Pruitt and Applegate. The present pastor, Gilbert Jones, was formerly state missionary evangelist of the denomination and assumed the pastorate of the Mt. Pulaski Church Jan. 1, 1909. The present membership of the church is 310, of whom 163 have been added in the past year and a half. Elder L. M. Robinson, one of the early Christian preachers of the county and a continuous resident of Mt. Pulaski since 1860, has served the congregation at varying times during his residence in Mt. Pulaski, whenever the church would be without a pastor.

THE COPELAND CHRISTIAN CHURCH: The Copeland Christian Church, located on section sixteen of the lower portion of Mt. Pulaski township, on the Lake Fork, was built in 1867 and was dedicated by Elder John England in December of the same year. The society had been organized the year previous, by Elder England, at the Copeland school house. Samuel Harbert was the first clerk, George Whitesides and David Birks the first deacons and William and Abner Copeland the first elders. The original members of the organization were Mr. and Mrs. S. ~ M. Harbert, Mr. and Mrs. David Birks, Mr. and Mrs. John Birks, Mr. and Mrs. William Copeland, Mr. and Mrs. Roland Birks, Mr. and Mrs. Abner Copeland, Polly Peters, George Whitesides and Maria Copeland. The first basket meeting was held in Copeland's Grove July 5, 1866. "An addition to the church was built in 1906. The present pastor is Elder N. S. Haynes.

EMDEN CHRISTIAN CHURCH: In the fall of 1888, Elder W. H. Bowles held a three weeks' meetings at Emden after which a Christian Church society was temporarily organized, with E. L. Carnahan and Luke Bennett as elders and G. W. Miller, J. L. Searl and K. E. Carnahan as deacons. In May of 1889, a lot was purchased of Philip Ward and the erection of the present house of worship was begun. On the third Sunday in September, 1889, the building was dedicated, free of debt, by Rev. W. H. Bowles. The following June a permanent organization was effected when Luke Bennett and E. L. Carnahan were ordained as elders, G. W. Miller, J. L. Searl, K. E. Carnahan and Godfrey Betzelberger were chosen deacons. Later, G. H. Bowles was associated as an elder and Samuel

CORNLAND CHRISTIAN CHURCH: In November of 1874, Elder D. D. Miller, of Bloomington, conducted a series of meetings at the Day school house. As a result of these meetings a Christian Church society was organized at Cornland, March 6, 1875, with William R. Turley, Robert Enos, George Keehler and William Crane as elders, Robert Turley, A. H. Constant, S. Hudson, H. B. Enos and Isaac Ridgway as deacons and G. H. Greening as clerk. A few years prior to the laying out of the town of Cornland, a Christian society had been organized four miles north of the present site of Cornland and a small church erected. The members of the society affiliated with the new Cornland organization and the church building was moved into Cornland. A five weeks' meeting was then held by Elder J. E. Cain and by the end of the year, the church had a membership of 144. Subsequently substantial additions were made to the church. Those who have held pastorates in connection with this church are J. E. Cain, John Lemons, D. M. Dot, G. W. Hughes, L. M. Robinson, Thomas B. Piatt, J. E. Diehl, C. E. Dunlap, M. M. Shaw and the present pastor, W. S. Mesnard. H. M. Day is the present clerk and the present membership numbers 157.

BEASON CHRISTIAN CHuRcH: The Beason Christian society was permanently organized April 26, 1874, with twenty-four members. A lot was purchased in Beason by the society Dec. 14th of the same year, and a church was soon after erected thereupon, the dedicatory exercises, conducted by Elders Hutchinson, Holton and Craig, taking place May 17, 1875. The church has no pastor at present.

BROADWELL CHRISTIAN CHURCH: The Christian Church society of Broadwell was organized in 1864. Two lots were purchased about a block east of the railroad track on Oct. 22, 1864, and a church building was erected thereon soon after. Among the ministers who have officiated at this church are Charles Berry, Allen Rice, James M. Allen, J. W. Monser, Buford Allen, J. W. Cotton, James Seaton, J. V. Beekman and T. T. Holton. The church is at present without regular pastor.

ELKHART CHRISTIAN CuuRCH: The Christian society of Elkhart was organized in 1865. A corner lot was purchased fronting Elkhart hill, near the school house building and a church erected on the lot in 1867. The same pastors who held services in the Broadwell church made visits to Elkhart and preached to the Elkhart congregation. In 1873, Elder Davidson was a resident pastor. The trustees in 1870 were W. T. Hughes, Stephen A. Clarno, A. E. Constant, B. F. Wiley and A. M. Dye. The congregation has no resident pastor at present.

in the county. A church building was erected soon after the organization of the society, in the northeastern portion of the town. In 1go9, this building was dismantled to make room for a modern structure, which cost about $10,000. The building committee consisted of Charles Pritchett, Thomas Gasaway and A. J. Pease.

BETHEL CHRISTIAN CHURCH: The Bethel Christian Church is located on section one in Orvil township. The society was originally a branch of what was known as the "Old Sugar Creek Congregation," which in the early fifties had a house of worship east of the Morgan bridge in Eminence township, about five miles from the present site of the Bethel church. The Bethel society was organized by Elder William Ryan, Noy. 26, 1854, with the following members: William Ryan, William Shirley, David Bowles, George Ryan, Jeremiah Miller, Samuel Waters, Jesse Bowles , James Shirley, Henry Shirley, Norman Sumner, Elizabeth Ryan, Maria Bowles, Jemima Waters, Melville Ryan, Elizabeth Bowles, Elizabeth Shirley, Sarah Miller, Esther Shirley and Margaret Sumner. Of these David Bowles and William Shirley were elected elders, George Ryan and Jeremiah Miller elected deacons; Norman Sumner, clerk; and William Shirley, Samuel Waters and David Bowles, trustees. A church was erected in 1854 which was replaced by a modern structure in 1872 and dedicated Feb. 2, 1873. Among those who served as pastors of this church are William B. Ryan, George W. Minier, Alfred Lindsey, Elder Cain, William Mallory, John England, Benjamin Franklin, Leroy Skelton, George F. Adams, Dudley Downs, Charles Short, Henry Smithers, David Dota, James G. Mitchell, Samuel Knight, Peter Shick, John Lindsey, R. B. Chaplin, Isaac Stout, Walter P. Bowles, Elijah Stout, G. W. Warren, J. V. Beekman, Elder Page, J. W. Porter, T. T. Holton, H. S. Mavity, J. E. Jewett, W. H. Cannon, O. L. Sumner, Elder Mouser, R. D. Cotton, J. A. Seaton, L. M. Robinson, S. C. Pruitt, W. H. Bowles, J. I. Judy and Elders Armstrong, Hall, Ely, Orchard, Hay, Ingram, Evans, Bekelheimer, Haines, McGinnis, Barnett and Parvin.

New Union Curistian CuurcH: The New Union Christian Church in Chester township was incorporated Jan. 6, 1875, with Monroe Shoup, Eli Fletcher and Jerome Shoup as trustees. Services had been held in the school house, however, many years prior to this date. In 1875, Peter Arnfelt donated land in section 25, to the society, upon which a church edifice was erected that year, at a cost of $1,800. Elder Henry Wright was the first pastor. Elder John England was for a number of years identified with the church as minister. Others who served in that capacity were Elders Cain, Craig, Hutchison and Doty. The congregation is without pastor at present.

Christian Science

and held services. Later a hall was rented in the business portion of the city. In January of 1908, the society leased the Presbyterian Church building on the corner of Broadway and Ottawa streets and since that time the society has met regularly in that structure. A formal organization of the society occurred in May of 1909. The first trustees of the organization were J. M. White, Fred Reinhardt, Mrs. T. T. Beach, Mrs. Eva Hunting and Mrs. Ed. Lutz. The first readers were Mrs. A. M. Hart and Mrs. Mildred Bosworth.

Congregational

LINCOLN CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH: A Congregational society was organized in Lincoln March 12, 18509, by Rev. H. W. Cobb, the first pastor. Work was commenced on a church edifice in August, 1863 and the building was completed Jan. 1, 1864. It was located on West Pulaski street near the corner of Kankakee, the present site of Zion's Lutheran Church, to the society of which latter church the building was sold in 1873. In 1875, the Congregational society erected a church on the corner of Broadway and Ottawa streets at a cost of $4,000, known as Pilgrim Chapel. In 1885, this building was sold to the Presbyterian society. Since 1885, the Congregational society has been inactive. The pastors of the church were H. W. Cobb, Robert L. McCord, H. S. Clark, A. E. Baldwin, H. D. Platt and Seth M. Wilcox.

ATLANTA CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH: The Atlanta Congregational Church society is here noted on account of its historical features, the society having been inactive since 1885. It was one of the earliest Congregational Churches in Illinois, having been organized in 1840 in the New Hope settlement in what is now Atlanta township. The church was moved to Atlanta as soon as that town was platted in 1853 being probably the first church society holding services in the new town. A new church edifice was erected in 1859 and before the building was seated, an ice cream festival was held in the church on the night of July 4th, Abraham Lincoln being present and delivering an address. He was presented with a cake by a local baker, which he in turn presented to the church society. The particulars of this occurrence will be found in the chapter entitled "Abraham Lincoln." Among the pastors of this society were S. Spencer, J. H. Moore, S. Foster, J. R. Barnes, and H. W. Cobb. The latter was pastor at the time of Lincoln's visit. The trustees of the church at that time were Moses C. Hicks, Samuel J. Chapin and Albert Goodell.

Episcopal

Episcopal Church in Lincoln, dates from July 3, 1871. At this date a meeting of those interested was held in the Universalist church on Kicka- poo street. Rev. F. M. Gregg, rector of St. Paul's Church, of Springfield, presided and there were present the following: Stephen A. Foley, J. A. Niles. William Rhea, Thomas H. Philips, Charles Moore, George S. Dana, Mrs. J. C. Congdon and Mrs. Wm. B. Mann. An organization was effected and the following official board selected: Senior Warden, Stephen A. Foley; Junior Warden, J. A. Niles; Vestrymen, Thomas H. Phillips, Wm. Rhea, Charles Moore and George- S. Dana. The parish was without rector until 1873, though during this interval of two years, occasional services were held by Rev. F. M. Gregg and on two occasions by Bishop Whitehouse. Prior to the erection of a church, services were held in Gillett's Hall, a temporary chancel having been erected for that purpose. On Sept. 28, 1871, Judge Foley donated to the society four lots, 100 by 160 feet, on the corner of Kankakee and Kickapoo streets and here on May 13, 1872, ground was first broken for a church edifice which was completed and ready for occupancy, Sept. 12, 1873. The building was Gothic in design and contained several memorial windows. The first rector was Rev. William Wilson, who came May 2, 1873. He was succeeded by Rev. George H. Higgins, Oct. 1, 1874, who continued as rector one year and from then until May of 1877, the parish was without a rector, although occasional services were held by visiting clergymen. On May 1, 1877, Rev. Joseph E. Martin became rector. On July 21, 1877, Bishop Seymour, then but recently installed as bishop of the diocese, made his first visit to the parish. Rev. William Wilson succeeded Rev. Mr. Martin, returning to the parish in June of 1881 and remaining one year, when he was succeeded by Rev. J. E. Hall, who remained until November of 1884.

From November, 1884, to February of 1887 the parish was without a regular rector, but in the latter month and year, Rev. Nelson Ayres was installed as rector. Rev. Mr. Ayres served as pastor until 1890, and the succeeding pastors, to the year 1903, have been as follows: Wemyss Smith, 1890-94; Charles W. Hodder, 1895-96; Charles E. Cabaniss, 1896-1902. The present rector, Rev. William N. Wyckoff came in 1903. Under his ministry, a new church edifice was erected, modern in every detail, at a cost of $20,000. The church is a handsome structure of Gothic design, constructed of red clinker brick, trimmed extensively with Bedford stone. It has several memorial windows and is artistically decorated.

Sr. AcnEs Mission, Mt. Putask1: The St. Agnes Mission was started in Mt. Pulaski, Sept. 1, 1903, under the direction of Rev. William N. Wyckoff, of Trinity parish, Lincoln, and on Nov. 8th of the same year, Bishop Seymour confirmed a class of eleven candidates. On Nov. 1th, the mission was duly organized with Dr. James R. Rigg as warden and Virgilia Pumpelly as secretary and treasurer. Services were first held in the K. of P. and the Odd Fellows' hall, until a lot was purchased and a church building erected thereon. Work was begun on the church

June I, 1904, and the corner stone was laid June 19, 1904, Bishop Seymour officiating. The building committee was composed of H. S. Bekemeyer, J. B. Gordon and A. W. Leslie. Rev. Mr. Wyckoff has been in charge of the mission since its organization.

Jewish

The Jewish people of Lincoln organized a congregation in August of 1884, with eight or ten families. Rabbi Cadden, of Bloomington, was instrumental in the organization and held services for the congregation in the Universalist Church. Louis Rosenthal was president of the organization and Samuel Stern vice president. Subsequently various other rabbis held services in Lincoln at stated intervals. A more definite organization took place, however, in 1904, when Rabbi Charles S. Levi of Peoria, organized the present Beth El congregation, which resulted in gio in the erection of a permanent synagogue, at a cost of $7,000. This synagogue was dedicated Nov. 6, 1910. The building is located on the corner of McLean and Delavan streets, facing Latham Park. It is constructed of dark-faced brick with stone trimmings and is 70 by 36 feet in dimensions. The interior decorations are especially attractive. The present rabbi in change of the congregation is Rabbi Abraham J. Messing, of Bloomington. .

Lutheran

St. JoHn's LUTHERAN CHuRcH, Lincotn: On Sunday, Oct. 23, 1910, the society of St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lincoln, celebrated its fiftieth anniversary. For the first five years of its existence, it held services in the fourth ward school house, at private houses and one year the Congregational church was leased. The first pastor of the church was Rev. J. Stumpf, who served in that capacity from the organization in 1860 to 1863. He was succeeded the latter year by Rev. C. E. Bode, who served until 1865, when he was succeeded by Rev. B. Siegel. On Feb. 15, 1865, a more permanent organization was effected, 29 members forming the organization at that time. The following official board was then chosen: Secretary, F. C. W. Keohnle; treasurer, Adam Bucke; elders, Wolrod Kief, John Flick, Adam Bucke, Jacob Kief, Michael Kief; trustees, F. C. W. Keohnle, Bernard Friesch, Adam Bucke, Michael Kief and Wolrod Kief. Prior to this organization, the Cumberland Presbyterians had built a church on the corner of Clinton and McLean streets, facing the South park, and desiring to build a new structure, they sold the old church building to the St. John's society, on Feb. 26, 1865, for $2,500. On May I, 1876, the society purchased the four lots cornering on Fifth and Union streets, the present site of the parsonage and church.

Austmann in 1874 and served until 1877. In 1877, Rev. John G. Ade became pastor and served in that capacity for ten years. During Mr. Ade's ministry the present church and parsonage were erected on the lots purchased in 1876. The church was built on the corner of Union and Fifth the building was completed and was dedicated Jan. 18, 1885. The church is 40 by 65 feet in dimensions, has a steeple 11 5 feet high containing two bells and is constructed of brick. It cost, when completed and furnished, about $9,500. E. Zimmer, of Pekin, was the architect. The official board at the time of the erection of the church included M. Reinhardt, A. Bree, August Wilmert, Fred Wilmert, John Lachenmeyer, Peter Obcamp, William, Adolph and Frank Rimerman. Rev. Mr. Ade was succeeded as pastor in 1887 by Rev. H. Schmidt, who served as pastor until 1897. Rev. F. W. Schnathorst became the pastor in the latter year, and under his ministry the Deaconess hospital was built, an historical sketch of which appears in another chapter. The present pastor, Rev. G, Niebuhr, succeeded Mr. Schnathorst as pastor in 1902. He is president of the state association of his denomination. The church has about 500 communicants.

Zion LUTHERAN CuurcH, LINcoLN: Rev. I. Kerrn, pastor of the Zion Lutheran Church at Mt. Pulaski, called a meeting of those interested in organizing a church of that denomination, at the Rothschild school house, in West Lincoln township, three miles west of the city of Lincoln, in the year 1869, but owing to his removal to El Paso, Ill., did not complete the organization. His successor at Mt. Pulaski, Rev. I. T. Boetticher, took up the work and with the assistance of Rev. Henry Meyer in July of 1871, organized at the Rothschild school house the "German Evangelical Lutheran Zion's Congregation" with the following members: C. Lohrens, John Bure, Fred Schroeder, Fred Wittkopf, John Werth, C. Krueger, W. Krusemart, A. Schroeder, C. Struebing, H. Jentzen, C. Boelk and C. Jarcho. The first three named were elected trustees. Rev. Mr. Meyer was placed in charge of the society. On May 15, 1872, he organized a society at Lincoln of the following members: John Scholl, G, F. Wolfe, G. Drobisch, P. Ebel, John Feuerbacher, W. Koeneke, John Schroeder, Mrs. Rose Feuerbacher and Mrs. C. Geisler. The first three named were selected as trustees. In the same year these two societies were united under the name of the German Evangelical Lutheran Zion's congregation of Lincoln.

Prior to this organization, the Congregationalists had erected a church building on the corner of Pulaski and Kankakee streets. On Sept. 20, 1872, the Zion society purchased this building and the two lots upon which it was located, for a consideration of $3,000. The first service was held in this church Oct. 20, 1872. Rev. Mr. Meyer continued as pastor of the church until 1892, when he resigned and was succeeded by Rev.

Mr. Sippel. Rev. August Burgdorf became pastor in 1897 and continued until 1903, when he was succeeded by the present pastor, Rev. 'John Barthel. Under his ministry in 1903, the present church was erected at a * cost of approximately $25,000... The corner stone was laid Aug. 2, 1903, and the building was dedicated May 1, 1904. The church is a large brick structure, the interior being finished with oak and contains choir loft and pipe organ. The dedicatory address was delivered by Prof. L. Wessel, of

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH, LINCOLN: The Immanuel German Lutheran Church society of Lincoln was organized in 1892, by Rev. Henry Meyer, formerly pastor of the Zion Lutheran Church. For several months after organization, the society met in the W. C. T. U. tabernacle on Logan street, pending the erection of a church building. Work was begun on the building in the summer of 1892, the corner stone being laid on Sept. 18th of that year. The church was erected at the corner of Logan and Pekin streets, and cost in the neighborhood of $5,500. It was dedicated Feb. 5, 1893. The officers of the society at the time of the erection of the church structure were as follows: Secretary, Henry Heitman; treasurer, Henry Werth; trustees, F. Berger, Henry Werth, Fred Kuhlman; directors, Theodore Sass, John Shoof, D. Rothke and Christopher Jens. Rev. Henry Meyer is still the pastor of the society.

First LurHeran Zion Cuurcu, Mt. Puvaski: The First Lutheran Church, of Mt. Pulaski, was probably the first Lutheran church built in Logan County. The society was organized July 9, 1851, and of the original members, Fred Dittus, William and Christian Rupp are the only survivors. In 1852, the society erected a small brick church on the corner of Vine and Wayne streets, the same being the southwest corner of the block upon which the present church now stands. The work on the building was generally performed by the members themselves. By the year 1856, the society had thirty-six members. The first pastor was Rev. Mr. Schwalb. In 1865, the society sold its church building to the Catholic congregation and purchased the site of the present church on the corner of Cooke and Vine streets. Here this same year the society erected a new church structure which was completed and dedicated May 13, 1866. This building was likewise found in after years to be inadequate to the increasing demands and a third church building was erected on the site of the former structure. The third edifice is the present house of worship. It is a pressed brick structure, handsomely. frescoed and equipped with a pipe organ. The congregation owns the parsonage opposite the church and the church property is valued at about $21,000. Following Rev. Mr. Schwalb, Pastor Memminger served as pastor for a short time. He was succeeded in 1856 by Rev. P. S. Staiger, who served as pastor to 1863. Then came Rev. Mr. Bode, who was succeeded in 1869 by Rev. I. N. Kern. The latter served about a year when he was succeeded by J. T.

ST. JOHN's EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, MT. PuLasxki: The St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church was organized Oct. 18, 1868, with sixteen members. The first official board was as follows: Secretary, John Krieg; trustees, Christian Danner, Jacob Starr and Henry Vonderleith. Services were held in the old Universalist Church until 1873, when a church edifice was erected at the corner of Cooke and Spring streets. The trustees at the time the building was erected were Henry Vonderleith, George Meister and George Huck. The structure cost $3,300 and was dedicated Oct. 28, 1873. The interior of the church was thoroughly remodeled in 1906 at a cost of $2,200. The pastors of the church since its organization have been as follows: W. A. Deininger, 1868-71 ; O. Pracht, 1871-73; O. J. Ebert, 1873-75 ; Christ Starck, 1875-80; C. Schmidt, 1880- 81; M. During, 1881-89; Alfred Freyschmidt, 1889-92; B. Garten, 1892- 93; J. J. Hoffman, 1893-94; B. Garten, 1894-97; Frederick Stoebener, 1897-99; F. G. Weise, 1899-1900; G. F. P. Schmidt, 1900-03; Wm. Hoffman, 1903-04; N. S. Luz, 1905-08; and the present pastor, Paul Von Toerne, who assumed the pastorate of the church in 1909. The present membership of the society is 320.

- LUTHERAN CHURCH, EMpEN: The Emden Lutheran Church was the first church society organized in that village and soon after organization a commodious church building was erected. Rev. Mr. Lange has been pastor of this society for over twenty-five years.

EVANGELICAL ASSOCIATION CHURCH, Mr. PuLaski1: The Evangelical Association Church of Mt. Pulaski was organized about 1855, by Rev. H. Schelf. Among the first members were the families of Michael Schroth and F. Seyfer. Services were first held at private houses, then in the old Universalist Church until 1861, when the society erected a brick church, which has been occupied by the congregation ever since. Rev. Mr. Schelf, the first pastor, was succeeded by Rev. J. Dengel and Rev. Mr. Andes. Rev. A. Strohmier was pastor from 1857 to 1859, and under his pastorate the Sunday school was organized. He was succeeded by Rev. J. Kurz, who was pastor at the time of the erection of the church building. The official board at that time consisted of Henry Horn, George Meister, Michael Shrode, William Rentmeister and Jacob Evlinbach. The following pastors have served the society since Rev. Mr. Kurz;.J. Mohr, G. M. Yung, J. Kuechel, G. Ramige, P. Himmel, J. P. Wingert, G. Eichenlaub, G. Fuchs, A. Woehr, C. Danner, George Barth, A. Egli, Peter Reinders (who served from 1876 until 1902, the year of his death), F. F. Jordan, K. Bauerle, Wm. Storkmann, John Marth, Aaron Good and the present pastor, Rev. G. J. Degenkolb.

Methodist

Lincotn M. E. Cuurcu: The Lincoln Methodist Church had its origin in a church organization effected by Rev. Samuel H. Martin in the old court house in Postville in the winter of 1840. The town of Postville had been laid out in 1836; the county of Logan was organized in 1839, Postville was selected as the county seat and the court house was erected soon after. Prior to the year 1839, Methodist services had been conducted by Rev. Mr. Martin at the house of Thomas Enslow, one mile west of Postville. As soon as the court house was built and before the court room had been seated, Mr. Martin began a series of protracted meetings in the building, boards being used for benches. He was assisted in these meetings by Rev. Hardin Wallace and Rev. W. D. R. Trotter, a son-in-law of Peter Cartwright, also preached during the meetings. Following this protracted effort, a Methodist society was organized, the leading members being Dr. and Mrs. John Deskins, Mr. and Mrs. William Hackney, Sr., Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Enslow, James Primm and mother. In 1844, the Postville circuit was organized, Rev. Daniel H. Hatton being placed in charge. Peter Cartwright was then presiding elder of the district. Among others who served as pastors of the Postville society were Samuel Burr, Richard Bird, J. C. Baker, and W. Pitner. No church building was ever erected in Postville, services being held in the court house and in the school house. On the removal of the county seat from Postville to Mt. Pulaski in 1848, the Postville circuit was dissolved and the Postville society was attached to the Mt. Pulaski circuit, this circuit in the latter part of the fifties including substantially all of the Methodist societies in the county, some fifteen in number. Upon the laying out of the town of Lincoln in 1853, the Postville organization lost its identity and became absorbed in the organization of the Methodist Church in Lincoln,

Methodist services were first held in Lincoln in the depot of the Alton & Sangamon railroad in 1853, and were presided over by Rev. Lewis Anderson, pastor of the Mt. Pulaski circuit. Later, services were conducted by Rev. I. R. Garner, successor to Rev. Lewis Anderson, in the old first ward school house on Clinton street, on the present site of the Washington school, and here, on March 17, 1856, the Lincoln society was permanently organized. The following trustees were elected: Robert Leslie, Adam C. Wood, James Ratekin, Joshua Barrick and Henry Johnson. Immediate steps were taken to erect a church building and on June 23, 1856, two lots were secured on the corner of Pekin and McLean streets, now a portion of the Lincoln library premises, the said lots fronting Latham Park and here in 1858, a small frame church edifice was erected. Up to 1860, the Lincoln Church continued to be affliated with the Mt. Pulaski circuit, but in that year the latter circuit was divided and the Lincoln circuit was established, which included Lincoln, Zion, Sugar Creek and other points. In 1861, the trustees were Robert Leslie, Adam C. Wood, Henry Johns, Willam B. Cramer, William G. Tenny, William P. Randolph and William G. Starkey.

The Lincoln society had so increased in numbers and influence by 1866, that the conference that year constituted Lincoln a station by itself, Rev. Preston Wood being the first pastor. Soon thereafter a movement was begun to erect a more commodious church building, the old one being inadequate for immediate needs. The old lots and building were thereupon sold to the Presbyterian society just organized and, on March 2, 1868, two lots were purchased of W. G. Starkey, on the corner of Broadway and Logan streets, the present church site. The consideration was $3,500. The trustees at the time of this transfer were Samuel C. Parks, Wm. P. Randolph, Edward S. Shrock, Samuel Sargent, John D. Leslie, Wm. B. Cramer, Henry Johnson, James Beers and Wm. G. Starkey. Work was begun on the new building June 11, 1868, and during the erection of the building services were held in a hall adjoining the Spitly house. The corner stone was laid July 10, 1868, under the direction of the Masonic fraternity. The address was delivered by J. I, Davidson, of Springfield. The local pastors assisted in the exercises. In the corner stone was deposited a Bible, hymn book, discipline, almanac, current coins, copies of Lincoln papers, photograph of President Lincoln, copy of the emancipation proclamation and other articles. The basement rooms were completed and dedicated Dec. 26, 1868, by Presiding Elder Buck, assisted by Rev. W. R. Goodwin, the local pastor. The building cost about $15,000. Including the cost of the lots, furnishing, etc., the total cost of the church was about $22,000. The structure is 45 by 75 feet in dimensions. The audience room was dedicated March 3, 1872, by Rev. Dr. Bowman, president of Asbury university, Greencastle, Ind., later promoted to be a bishop of the denomination.

Shortly after the completion of the church building, the Illinois annual conference was invited to convene in its walls. The invitation was accepted and the conference met in Lincoln in September of 1869. At this conference occurred the jubilee anniversary of Peter Cartwright's half century as a presiding elder noted elsewhere in this chapter. The conference again met in Lincoln in 1882, Bishop Warren presiding. In 1873, the name of the church was changed to "the First Methodist Episcopal Church of Lincoln, Illinois." The prior name had been "the Lincoln Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church." The church was incorporated under the former name. In 1889, the interior of the church building was remodeled throughout at a cost of about $10,000. On completion it was dedicated Feb. 11, 1900, by Bishop Joyce. The following is a list of the pastors of the church from its organization in 1856: W.

Mr. Putasxi M. E. Cuurcu: The Methodist society of Mt. Pulaski was the first religious society organized in Mt. Pulaski, after its establishment as a town in 1836. The organization of the society occurred about 1841 at the residence of Dr. John Clark. Among the early pastors connected with the church were Samuel Clampett, Samuel H. Martin and Hardin Wallace. The latter held one of the most successful series of protracted meetings known to the county in pioneer days, over fifty additions being made to the membership of the church. Until 1851 the church services were held at Dr. Clark's house and in the school house. Peter Cartwright, the famous pioneer preacher, who was presiding elder of the district, frequently preached in Mt. Pulaski in the early days of the society. In 1848, the county seat was removed from Postville to Mt. Pulaski and a movement was started by the society to erect a church. A meeting was held Dec. 12, 1849, and the following trustees were elected for a term of three years to secure a lot for building purposes: John Harry, John Clark, Norman Norton, James J. Snyder and John M. Downing. On May 21, 1851, a lot was secured east of the public square and a small frame church building soon after erected thereupon.

At this time, in the early fifties, this society was the leading Methodist society in the county and what was known as the Mt. Pulaski circuit included fourteen church societies, namely, Mt. Pulaski, Zion, Dalbey's, Day's School House, Two Mile Grove, Downing's, Hurricane Point, Whiteman's, French's, Metcalf's, Bateman's, Sugar Creek, Mt. Pleasant and Postville. On the organization of the churches at Lincoln and Lawndale in 1853, these societies were also added to the circuit, Lincoln taking the place of Postville and making fifteen appointments in all. In 186o, the circuit was divided into two circuits, Lincoln and Mt. Pulaski. The present Mt. Pulaski circuit includes Chestnut, Cornland, French's Chapel and Pleasant Valley. In 1858, the circuit established in Mt. Pulaski township what was known as the Union camp ground. To hold this property, the circuit was incorporated in 1852, the trustees named being James Randolph, Daniel Clark, Isaac Clark, Joseph D. Dement and William Leimly. In 1861, lots were purchased for the erection of a parsonage and the trustees at that time were John Clark, Alexander Mills, Creed H. Dawson, George A. Robinson and Ninian R. Cass. In 1884, the society erected a new church on the site of the one built in 1851. The new structure cost about $3,000 and was dedicated Nov. 9, 1884, by Presiding Elder Prentice, of Springfield, and Prof. Adams, of Bloomington.

Atlanta on the right of way of the new Alton & Sangamon railroad. The organization took place at the hotel of James M. Cantrall. The original members were Mr. and Mrs. James M. Cantrall, Almira A. Cantrall, Mr. and Mrs. A. N. Dills, Mr. and Mrs. John A, Druly, Mr. and Mrs. Sherman Jeffords, Mr. and Mrs. James McNeely, Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Ludlam, Martha A. Paullin, Mr. and Mrs. Ransdell, Elizabeth Buckner, Mr. and Mrs. H. Maltby, Mr. and Mrs. A. S. Corthon and Mr. and Mrs. John Pallady. The society was made an appointment of the Waynesville circuit and the first pastor was Rev. James Newbegin, pastor of the said circuit. He was succeeded in 1855 by Rev. John M. Preshaw, a local! preacher from Ohio, who officiated once a month. During the winter months he preached in the school house known as the Seminary. A lot was purchased in 1856, the trustees at that time being James M. Cantrall, A.N, Dills, A. J. Ludlam, A. 5S. Corthon, H. Maltby, John Pallady and Ezra T. Kenyon. The consideration for the lots was $120. The contract for the church building was let to Charles B. VanHorn for $2,715. The building was dedicated the first Sunday in February, 1857, by Rev. Jonathan Stamper. In the same year, the connection of the church with Waynesville circuit was severed and Atlanta became a station by itself. During the years the Atlanta society was part of Waynesville circuit, James Newbegin and J. M. Preshaw served as pastors during 1854 and 1855, and Benjamin Barthalow, W. H. McVey and John Everly in 1856.

LatHAM M. E. Cuurcu: The Latham Society of the Methodist Church was permanently organized Feb. 14, 1872, shortly after the laying out of the town. The meeting was held at the store of Fred Joynt, in the new town of Latham, and the following trustees were elected: Fred Joynt, Lemuel Parish, Jacob Everly, John Aver and William G. Darden. There had been a society organized several years previous in the Parish school house, near the present site of Latham and this was merged in the Latham society. On April 23, 1872, a lot was deeded to the society by Lemuel Parish and a church building erected thereon that year. The society occupied this building for church purposes until 1909, when it was dismantled to make room for a new modern structure, which was completed in the spring of 1910 and dedicated June 12th. The building is constructed with a concrete foundation, a glazed brick basement and red pressed brick walls for the main story, trimmed with gray stone. The interior woodwork is dark oak. The main story contains the auditorium, Sunday school room and class rooms, and the basement contains dining rooms and kitchen. The interior is beautifully decorated and equipped with all modern appointments. The building committee consisted of Frank W. Kiick, W. H. Williams, Samuel Benson and L. L. Games. The present pastor of the church is R. B. Hubbard.

Beason M. E. Cuurcu: The Beason Methodist Church had its origin in what was known as the Independent society, which was organized about 1870, at the residence of Mrs. Mary Keys in Oran township. The trustees at that time were Everett Whiteman, Elias Hammerton, William Stewart, Andrew Armstrong, Marion C. Stark, Andrew Keys and Edward Gibson. <A site for a church building was purchased June 6, 1870, a mile east of the present site of Beason, and here a church was erected during that year and the charge attached to the Waynesville circuit. The town of Beason was laid out in 1872, but the Independent Church continued one mile east of Beason until 1877, when two lots were purchased in Beason and the church building was removed that year from its old site to the new town. 'The trustees at the time of removal were Everett Whiteman, Francis Keys, Andrew Keys, Edward Gibson, John E. Zollars, William Pollock and Andrew Armstrong. In 1879 the charge was detached from the Waynesville circuit and added to the Lincoln circuit. It continued to be associated with the latter circuit until 1903 when it was created a station. In the same year, the society began the erection of a handsome new edifice at a cost of about $5,000. The corner stone was laid Sept. 9, 1903, and the building dedicated June 12, 1904, by Dr. C. B. Taylor, assisted by A. M. Danely and W. H. McGhee, former pastors. The church building contains an auditorium, lecture room, two class rooms and a tower entrance. The present pastor is Z. O. Avery.

MIDDLETOWN M. EF. Cuurcu: A Methodist society was organized at Middletown by Rev. Samuel H. Martin at a very early date but no record has been preserved of the organization, services being generally held in private houses and in the school house. During the fifties services were held at times in the Presbyterian church, which was removed to Irish Grove in 1858. In 1868, a movement was inaugurated looking toward the erection of a church building. The charge at that time was part of what was known as the Athens circuit, the pastor was Rev. Mr. Burkett and the trustees were John Stroud, William Squire, Alexander Cook, William Stephens and A. E. Foster. A lot was purchased Aug. 6, 1868, and soon after a church building was erected at a cost of $3,000, and was considered a fine structure in those days. It was completed and dedicated July 3, 1870. The trustees at the time of dedication were F. M. Reed, Thomas Davy, William Squires, John Lloyd, William Edgell, George G. Louck and Alexander Cook. In 1908, under the pastorate of Rev. T. Lee Knotts, a new church edifice was erected, at a cost of about $11,000. The foundation of the new building was begun in August of 1908, and the corner stone laid Oct. 14th. The church was dedicated May 23, 1909, by Rev. Dr. Parr, of Kokomo, Ind.. The new church is a brick structure, trimmed with stone, of the Gothic style of architecture and finished in mission style. It contains ten memorial windows and has an improved system of ventilation. The main story contains the auditorium and church parlors with a Sunday school room in the basement. The trustees at the time of the dedication of the new church were Grant Heatherwick, Alonzo Ross, D. J. Rayburn, W. A. Pond and J. R. Graham. The present pastor is Rev. William Landis.

New Horitanp M. E. Cuurcu: The New Holland Methodist Church was the outgrowth of the Richmond Grove Church society organized in 1867 about a mile and a half from the present site of the village of New Holland. The society was jointly composed of Methodists and Cumberland Presbyterians. Garrett M. Laforge donated to the society sufficient land on which to erect a church and the building was erected that same year and dedicated by Rev. Hiram Buck. The pastor was J. T. Simmons and the trustees were Henry B. Stephens, Daniel Elam, S. L. Thompson, George W. Gayle, John C. White, James W. Baxter and Gerard McKennie. In 1882, the village of New Holland having been laid out in the meantime, the Methodist portion of the society sold out their interests in the church building to the Cumberland Presbyterians, reserving the bell, and decided to erect a church building 'a New Holland. Two lots were purchased Feb. 8, 1882, and the church was built at a cost of $3,000. It was dedicated Jan. 28, 1883, by Dr. W. H. H. Adams, of Bloomington. The building committee was composed of A. M. Caldwell, W. S. Watson, George W. Gayle and V. Re St. John. The church was erected under the pastorate of W. A. McKennie. Among ' the pastors of the church at various times were C. A. Sloan, W. O. Roush, W. M. Carter, W. M. Gooding, W. T. Evans, M. B. McFadden, E. S. Borton, Frank Bonnefon, L. E. Bolden, J. H. Pence and W. L. Selby.

Curstnut M. E. Cuurcu: The Chestnut M. E. Church is the outgrowth of one of the earliest Methodist church societies organized in Logan County. This society was organized in the early forties at the house of Henry Dement in what was known as the Yankeetown settlement not far from the present site of Chestnut. Services were conducted in private houses until about 1849, when a brick church was built in this settlement. Here services were held until shortly after the Gilman & Springfield railroad was built and the village of Chestnut laid out in 1872. A lot was then purchased in the new town and in 1873 a frame church was erected thereon. The trustees at that time were Daniel Clark, W. H. Daniels, Marquis Caudy and A. B. Dement. Among the pastors who have recently served this church are A. L. Weed, Frank McDaniel, M. V. Hiddlebaugh, M. B. McFadden, J. F. Harvey and C. R. Booth, the present pastor. .

E:xuart M. E. Courcu: A Methodist society was organized at Elkhart Grove in the thirties by Rev. Samuel H. Martin, a well known pioneer preacher, but not until 1863 was there a church building of this denomination erected in the village of Elkhart. The trustees at that time were Wm. B. Bock, Joseph A. Dalbey, David G. Evans, Thomas Nolan and Godfrey H. Guyer. The church society was incorporated June 15, 1873, the trustees at that time being George W. Brady, Dr. Taylor, S. M. Craw, J. D. Leslie, H. W. Sanford and M. M. Rodgers. The pastors of the Elkhart circuit, which includes also the charges of Broadwell and Spring Bank, since 1872 have been as follows: M. M. Davidson, G. B. Wolf, G. W. Dugan, J. M. West, W. E. Johnson, S. H. Martin, A. N. Simmons, H. T. Collins, J. D. Fry, H. Wells, F. C. Artz, A. H. Alkire, T. M. Pricketts, M. R. Palmer, C. R. Brewer, C. P. Hard, J. W. Priest, H. B. Montgomery, G. V. Metzel, M. E. Hobart, G. W. Randle and C. A. Ward, the present pastor.

BROADWELL M. E. CuurcH: The Broadwell Methodist society was organized shortly after the laying out of the village in 1866. Three lots facing the railroad right of way were purchased by the society, Sept. 9, 1867, and a church building erected thereon. The pastor of the church at the time of the erection of the building was J. B. Caldwell and the of-

SPRING BANK M. E. Cuurcu: The Spring Bank Methodist society was organized Sept. 17, 1886, by Rev. John Everly, and was attached to the Elkhart circuit. The trustees at that time were John Long, Thomas Nolan, W. P. Richards, Warren McBride, W. S. Bock, D. G. Evans, Edmund Jones, John W. Robinson and W. C. McMasters. A church building was erected in 1867 at a cost of about $2,200. It was built on section 23 in Corwin township. It has continued part of the Elkhart circuit to the present and a list of the pastors of said circuit are given under the title of the Elkhart Church.

CoRNLAND M. E. Cuurcu: The Cornland Methodist society was organized soon after the laying out of the town in 1873. The trustees at that time were Joshua Day, John Gillett, Roland Smith, H. A. Baldwin, Abner Pottle. The latter was succeeded by Perry Linn. Two lots were secured Oct. 17, 1874, and a church building was erected thereon in 1875. The charge was attached to the Mt. Pulaski circuit. A list of the pastors of the church will be found in connection with the sketch of the Mt. Pulaski Church.

Zion M. E. Cuurcu, Lincoitn Circuit: The Zion M. E. Church is located in the center of section 18, in East Lincoln township, one mile and a half north of the city limits of Lincoln. It is one of the oldest Methodist church societies in the county and was part of the Mt. Pulaski circuit in the late forties. On the division of the Mt. Pulaski circuit in 1860, the Zion organization was attached to the Lincoln circuit and has been part of that circuit ever since. Prior to 1869 the society held services in private houses but in that year a church edifice was erected. The trustees at that time were Osborn Ewing, Lewis Anderson, Abraham Altic, John Morris and David Rudolph and they had been trustees of the church since its organization. A new church building was erected in 1878, at a cost of $2,268, the same being dedicated May 26th of that year by Dr. W. H. H. Adams of Bloomington. The pastors of the Lincoln circuit since 1860 have been as follows: Joseph Montgomery, 1860- 62; J. B. Houts, 1862-63; Preston Wood, 1864-66; S. E. Pendleton, 1866-67; C. Arnold, 1867-68; H. C. Adams, 1868-69; G. B. Wolfe, 1869- 72; S. Shinn, 1872-73; John Everly, 1874-75; J. B. Colwell, 1875-76; C. Powell, 1876-79; T. D. Weems, 1879-81; A. C. Armentrout, 1881-84: A. M. Danely, 1884-87; P. N. Minier, 1887-88; W. M. Poe, 1888-92; J. FE. Artz, 1892-95; J. W. Eckman, 1895-96; S. W. Balch, 1896-97; W. H. McGhee, 1897-1902; C. R. Morrison, 1902-04; W. D. McIntosh, 1904- 06; T. W. Greer, 1906-08. The present pastor is A. D. Moon, appointed in 1908.

Harmony M. E. Cuurcu, Lincotn Circuit: The Harmony M. E. Church is located on section seven in Aetna township. The society was organized at the Duff school house in 1861, and services were held in the school house until 1869, when the present church building, known as Harmony chapel, was erected, at a cost of about $3,000. The trustees at the ° time of the erection of the church building were Andrew Johnston, James Johnston, William Johnston, Andrew M. Duff and William Armstrong. The church was free from debt when the building was dedicated. Since the organization of the society in 1861, the charge has been one of the appointments of Lincoln circuit and a list of its pastors will be found in the sketch of Zion Church above given.

LaymMan's M. E. Cuaret, Lincotn Circuit: Layman's Chapel is located on section fourteen of Chester township and is an appointment of Lincoln circuit. The original class was organized in the fall of 1866 in the Layman school house by Samuel, George and William Layman and their wives. The first pastor was S. E. Pendleton, with Samuel Johnston as assistant. The present site of the church was deeded to the society by Samuel Layman, Sept. 1, 1869, and the present church building, known as Layman's Chapel, was erected thereon. The corner stone was laid in the summer of 1869, Rev. W. R. Goodwin, of Lincoln, officiating, and the dedicatory exercises occurred in September following, Rev. Wm. Crain delivering the address. The trustees at the time of the erection of the church were William Layman, John W. Stewart, William Moore, William A. Pegram, Andrew B. Hagerman and Samuel Layman. Layman's Chapel has been part of the Lincoln circuit since the organization of the society to the present and a list of pastors of the circuit will be found in the sketch of the Zion Church above.

GERMAN M. E. CuHurcH, Empen: The German Methodist society of Emden was organized in 1876. The first official board was composed as follows: Henry Alberts, T. Busmann, Simon Niebuhr, E. Hayenga, T. Roelfs, Herman Roedel, John Suits, H. Ahrends, Paul Hartwick and John Oltmans. The church building was erected in 1879. The following have served as pastors of the church since its organization: Frank Gruenewald, Henry Ellerbeck, Charles Emig, Philip Barth, Franz Piehler, Peter Martin, F. W. Schleuter, W. F. Sipple, August Didzun, H. A. Temple and the present pastor, Fred W. Wahl.

GERMAN M. FE. CHurcu, HartssurG: The German Methodist Churches of Emden and Hartsburg were associated together in their organization, the first official board of both societies being constituted of members of both congregations. Since then two separate boards have been appointed, but the same pastor has officiated at both churches since their organization in 1876. The Hartsburg Church was built in 1889 at a cost of $2,000. A list of the pastors of the Hartsburg Church will be found in the above sketch of the Emden Church. The present pastor is Fred W. Wahl.

HartspurG M. E. Courcu: A Methodist Church society, independent of the German Methodist Church, was organized in Hartsburg in 1889. The trustees at that time were Simon Niebuhr, George Luppen, John Smith and George Valentine. . A church building was erected in 1904 and was dedicated on Oct. 2nd of that year, by Presiding Elder Horney, assisted by the pastor of the Hopedale circuit, Rev. J. L. Settle. Ever since the organization of the Hartsburg Church to the present it has been an appointment of the Hopedale circuit.

FRENCH's CHAPEL: French's Chapel is located on section 31 in Chester township and is an appointment in the Mt. Pulaski circuit. The society dates back to the later thirties when Methodist services were held at the residence of Asa French. Later on services were held in the school house. Shortly after the organization of the society in the thirties, it was a part of the Athens circuit. Later it became part of the Mt, Pulaski circuit, of which it has been a part since 1853. The list of pastors will be found in the sketch of the Mt. Pulaski Church. A church edifice was erected in 1873 at a cost of $1,650. The present pastor is G. W. McConkey.

PLEASANT VALLEY M. E. CHurcu: The Pleasant Valley Methodist society probably enjoys the distinction of being the oldest continuous Methodist society in the county. It is said to have been organized in 1835 at the house of James Downing on Salt creek and later met at the homes of David Laughery and Nicholas Moore. The congregation met in private houses and in the school house until 1875, when a church building was erected on section 35, in Chester township and on the Lincoln-Mt. Pulaski road. The building is 30 by 40 feet in dimensions and cost $2,100. It was dedicated Nov. 21, 1875, by Rev. W. R. Goodwin, of Lincoln, assisted by Rev. T. N. Simmons. The trustees at the time were George Mantle, John E. Downing, George Ripley, James Downing, John Valentine and Rudolph Krise. The charge is one of the appointments of the Mt. Pulaski circuit. The present pastor is W. G. McConkey.

AFricaNn M. E. Cyurcu, Lincotn: The African Methodist Church of Lincoln was organized in July of 1870. Soon after organization the society purchased of the city of Lincoln the old school building on the corner of Broadway and Sherman streets and this was fitted up as a church. The first regular pastor was Rev. J. W. Jackson who came in 1870. In 1881, the society erected a new church at a cost of about $1,000. The first trustees were Spencer Donnegan, Jackson Palm and Noble Hughes. The present pastor is H. Lacey and the church is known as Allen Chapel. .

Lucas CHAPEL: What is known as the Lucas Chapel is located on section twelve in Corwin township and is attached to the New Holland circuit of the M. E. Church. The church building was built in 1902 at a cost of $2,500, and was dedicated June 15th of that year by Rev. M. B. McFadden. The building committee consisted of Samuel Sparks, W. E.

Jones and David Eury. The church is located in the Lucas cemetery, and in this cemetery is buried Leo W. Myers, after whom the Gy AIRY post, of Lincoln, was named. The chapel contains a memorial window to Leo. W. Myers, donated by the post.

St. Paut's GERMAN M. E. Cuurcu: . The St. Paul's German M. E. Church is located in Prairie Creek township, a very short distance south of that portion of the village of San Jose that is in Logan County. The society was organized as the German M. E. Church of the Cream Ridge circuit in 1867 and met at the Cream Ridge school house. The trustees at that time were Frederick Smith, Henry Schweitzer, John Greensfelder, John Schweitzer and Anton Classen. A church was erected near the villiage of San Jose in 1871, the trustees at that time being Frederick Smith, Henry Schweitzer, John Greensfelder, N. Theel and John 'Alefs. In 1883, the society was incorporated as the St. Paul's German M. E. Church.

PRAIRIE CREEK M. E. Cuurcu: A Methodist Church was built on section thirty in Prairie Creek township in 1880. The trustees at that time were H. M. Howell, H. F. Rand, T. J. Chestnut, Eli Thomas, Joseph E. Ayres and Lee Chance. Prior to the erection of the church the society held services in the school house. The Prairie Creek Church constitutes one of the appointments of the San Jose circuit.

LAWNDALE M. E. Cuurcu: A Methodist society was organized at Lawndale in 1853 by Rev. W. B. Colt, of the Mt. Pulaski circuit, services being held at private houses. The society continued to be associated with the Mt. Pulaski circuit until 1866, when it was attached to the Lincoln circuit, so continuing until 1872, when it was connected with the charge in Atlanta. In the latter year, the Methodists and Cumberland Presbyterians jointly built a house of worship and services of each denomination were held therein on alternate Sundays. The pastors of the church being the pastors respectively of the Mt. Pulaski, Lincoln and Atlanta circuits, a list of same will be found elsewhere in this chapter.

AFRICAN M. E. Cuurcu, ATLANTA: An African Methodist society was organized in Atlanta in 1875, and a church was erected by the society in 1876. The trustees at the time of the building of the church were Daniel Fitch and William Escue. The society is now inactive.