Massac County, Illinois - Chapter 17: Religious History, 1900

Chapter 17: Religious History

WE are indebted to accredited persons for the information contained in these pages. There are miss ing facts, made so by imperfect records and memories. Fire destroyed the records of the M. E. church. We have done the best we could under the circumstances. Several churches, have been

We had hoped to present a statement of each line from several. To treat all fairly we omit "articles of denomination's belief but could not secure a satisfactory outfaith" and refer our readers to the popular literature of each denomination.

Massac county was organized in 184.3, but long before that there was Baptist preaching and several churches organized in what was then Johnson county.

Amos Lasley and another minister named Mcintosh were the iirst Baptist ministers who preached here, as far as we have been able to learn. But little is known of them. William. Eondeau, a minister from England, who lived for a time on an island in the Ohio river, not far from Golconda, 111., preached for a number of years in Pope, Johnson and Massac counties. He was said to be well educated and an able minister. William Baker, who was originally from South Carolina, but for many years a resident of Pope county, 111., preached and organized churclies over a large territory in Southern Illinois, two of his sons and two of his grandsons became Baptist preachers.

Other pioneer ministers were Valentine Smith, Americus Smith, his brother, J. A. Eamer, M. W. Holland and Willis White, the last two living in Kentucky; John P. Baxter and Geo. G. Lef ever, who died near Brooklyn, 1852 or '53, and Wiley Pullen, who died near New Columbia. Other ministers came from adjoining counties and Kentucky and frequently preached in this county.

Several of the old churches organized at an early day existed for several years and then became extinct, such as Ebenezer, organized in 1838. Old Salem and Little Spring, organized in 1844; Brooklyn, organized in 1851, and New Liberty.

There are now fifteen Baptist churches in Massac county, ten white and five colored. The ten white churches are. Metropolis, organized Nov. 13th, 1841, with seven members, whose names were Gilbert Padgett, Amanda Padgett, J. D. Kilgrove, Mary 0. Kilgrove, Robert K. Pope, Sylvia Pope and George Brewer; the ministers who acted as the Presbytery were William Baker, Willis Champion and William H. Young. This churcJi now numbers 225 members. Macedonia, first an arm of the Metropolis church, but afterwards organized into a church about 1850 ; Seven Mile, organized in 1853. Waldo, organized soon after Seven Mile; New Hope, organized in I860: the constituent members were Americus Smith, Elizabeth Smith, Reuben Wilson, Laney Wilson, Elizabeth English, Susan Pendell and Sarah A. Nutty. The ministers who composed the Presbytery were Alonzo Durham, C.F. Pain and Wm. B. Pearce. The church now numbers about 140 members. The other white churches are New Ebenezer, New Columbia, Ninevah, Hillerman and Brooklyn. The colored churches are the Second Baptist of Metropolis, Shady Grove, Zion, Siloam and Goodman's Chapel. There are now in the county about one thousand Baptists, with church property valued at about ten thousand dollars.

Christian Church

Below is given a brief sketch of each congregation in the county. Tt is not as complete as we desired; but in some cases the parties to whom we wrote for information, failed to reply and others trusted to their memories for the facts received. So we hope the incompleteness of these sketches will not be charged to the writer.

Metropolis

This is the oldest church in the county. It was organized in April, 18(54, in the court house, its members being composed mainly of refugees from Tennessee and Kentucky during the war. Among them were some preachers, chief of which was Elder Joseph Brown who ministered to the flock. At the close of the war many of these refugees moved away, and the membershi]) of the band was considerably weakened.

The first horise of worship was built in 1867, but was not finished inside until 1873, when the Sunday school, of which J. F. McCartney was superintendent, had it plastered. It stands on the corner of Fifth and Catherine streets, on lots deeded to the trustees of the Christian church by Captain Wm. McBane. This building was never officially dedicated; but after it was wrecked by the cyclone, it was rebuilt and dedicated. The proper-ty is now worth about |3,000. The present organization of the church was perfected in September, 1876, with J. F. McCartney and Solomon Tanhauser as elders. Since then the following ministers have served the congregation: B. C. DeWeese, one year; Dr. Bundy, three years; J. T. Owens, two years; Geo. E. Barrows, one year; J. T. Alsup, two years; J. Q. (^uinlin, one year; E. S. Renfro, nine months; O. J. Page, three years; Albert Nichols, eighteen months; M. D. Baumer, two months, and Randolph Cook, who is now serving his third year. The following is a list of evangelists who have held meetings for the church, together with the number of additions they had: George E. Flower, 12; Dr. Bundy, 71; A. E. Dubber, 33; O. J. Page, 73; Elder De Weese and J. S. Clemens also held successful meetings. The church in her history has baptized over 1,000 people, three of whom, J. T. Alsup, Robert Breshears and T. J. Golightly are now faithful ministers of Christ. The present membership of the church is 230.

This church was organized September 21, 1881, by H. C. Waddell, assisted by Dr. Bundy and J. P. McCartney, with sev enty-three members, and J. T. Owens engaged to preach for them for two years. For five years following this, the church was at a staud-still. Beginning with 1890, Elder E. P. WaiTen was engaged to preach for them; but in July of that year Elder Warren was killed by a runaway horse, and another period of depression followed for the church. With the coming of 1891 O. J. Page held a meeting, with thirty-five additions, and continued to preach for them once a week. As the result of this effort a new church building was planned, and with a loan of $400 from the Church Extension Board of Kansas City, Mo., the building was erected. O. J. Page dedicated the church. In 1895 a church bell was secured. The church now has a building worth $1,800.00, all paid for and a membership of ninety.

In 1885 Geo. Barrows of Indiana held a meeting here, which resulted in many conversions, and the organization of a church, and the employment of Andrew Perry as minister. Under Elder Perry's work a church building was erected, paid for, and the congregation named Bethel. The following named parties have preached for them: I. C. Stone and Geo. Cannon, in 1889; Robert Warren in 1890; Joseph Morgan, in 1892; Frank Sight, 1895; Elder Kirby, 1898-'99. During this time a good congregation has grown up and is doing efficient work.

County Line

This church is the result of a protracted meeting held by J. M. EatlifE, district evangelist, in 1877. The church grew in numbers and influence from the first. Elder W. M. Weatherford held a revival meeting for them which greatly strengthened the church. Later J. F. Hight held a meeting at this place which stirred the whole community, and added many to the church. As regular preachers the church has had such men as T. M. Mathews, N. W. Jones and W. A. Utley, who have ably filled the pulpit. In May, 1898, the house of worship was dedicated by O. J. Page. The membership is now fiftynine, and they own property to the value of |900.00.

Little Rock

This is the only congregation of colored people we have in the county. It v.'as organized in ] 875 by Elder W. W. Dugger, and has a membership of twenty-nine. They have no house in which to worship, and no Sunday school, but under the faithful leadership of Elder C. S. Welsh meet every Lord's day for the breaking of bread (Acts 2:42) and for prayer.

During the closing months of the Civil War Elder W. W. Dugger, in search of peace, moved into that neighborhood from Kentucky. He found no church building or members of his* order. On learning he was a minister, he Avas invited to preach in the M. E. church, which invitation was soon withdrawn. The presiding elder, G. W. Hughey, denounced Dugger and his followers as Baptist infidels, saying they were "not Christians but Campbellites, and Campbellites they should be called." Dugger's followers became incensed, and withdrew to a piece of woods, on his land and built an arbor. Here Elder Dugger preached "the Old Jerusalem Oospel" for twelve nights with great power, receiving many into the fold, and effecting an or- ganization. A small building, in the form of a box structure, was erected, and Elder Dugger was chosen to preach for them, which he did until he died. This was the first Christian church building in Massac county. A new and modern chapel has since been erected, not far from the original site, dedicated h} O. J. Page, worth, |1,500, and is paid for, while a flourishing church is the enduring monument left by this one man.

Liberty Ridge

This church originated about 1867, as the result of a revival meeting, held in a log school house, which aroused the whole neighborhood, many of whom were baptized. A temporary organization was formed, of which Dr. Joseph Brown was a leading member. Soon after differences arose and Dr. Brown and others withdrew. These, aided by Green B. Cheat, erected a cheap building, which was afterwards rebuilt into a modern structure, worth $1,200. During the early days of this church it was ministered to by Elder Stanton Fields. Later, other brethren, among whom were O. J. Page, G. Lay Wolfe and W. A. Utley, preached for them. The church now has a membership of seventy-five, with an efficient Sunday school and Christian Endeavor society.

The history of this church has been one of progress from the first. It was organized by Dr. D. M. Breaker of Chattanooga, Tennessee, October 29th, 1885. For a time the congregation had no house of worship, but finally an effort was made which resulted in the erection of the present building, which was dedicated by F. M. Rains, of Cincinnati, Ohio, May 36th, 1895. Since then it has enjoyed a continual growth. Its present membership numbers 170, and they own property to the value of $2,500. Elder G. Lay Wolfe, under whose labors sixty people have been added to the church, is the efficient minister.

just so long as ''life is full of strife, and conflict, so long as men are the children of misfortune, adversity and defeat, so long as troubles roll over the earth like sheeted storms, so long as dark minds need light and inspiration, and the pilgrim band, floundering through the wilderness, needs a leader, and a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night" will the church, aflame with unwasting oil, continue to be the guide and hope of the people.

The Presbyterian Church Of Metropolis

The sources for the material of this history are Norton's History of Presbyterianism in Illinois; a historical sermon by Rev. Joseph H. Scott, now in possession of Mrs. Scott; also the secretaries' book of the congregational meetings and the sessional records, and also the personal history of ministers who have labored in this field; the records of the Presbytery of Cairo and the minutes of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian church. The object of the writer has been to abbreviate as much as possible.

The First Presbyterian church of Metropolis City was organized, June 8th, 1850, by ministers of the Alton Presbytery, (New school,) Robert Stewart and John K. Deering, with members as follows: Mrs. Catharine McBane, George Hawpe and Mrs. Rebecca Hawpe, Dorcas Gregg, Nancy Carmichael, Joseph E. Smith and Mrs. Jane E. Smith, and Mrs. Harriet House. Messrs. Joseph E. Smith, (who died June 13th, 1851,) and George Hawpe were elected and installed ruling elders.

Until 1866 this church had but little ministerial care. Ministers R. Stewart, W. H. Bird, N. A. Hunt and E. B. Olmsted paid it occasional visits. The Rev. George W. Elliott was stated supply for a time in 1851, and the Rev. G. W. McCord in 1855. The Rev. A. S. Avery began his labors as a stated supply Aug. 1st, 1855, and continued three years. Rev. A. T. Norton, D. D., visited the place in March, 1866, and labored several days. He found but three members left. During the visit he received eight more. The Rev. J. H. Scott took chargi^ of the church July 5th, 1866, and remained until Sept. 6th, 1871. The Eev. Edward Scofleld supplied the church from Aug. lath, 1872, until April, 1873. His daughters, Mrs. Julia McCartney, the widow of the late Judge McCartney, is a resident of Metropolis. The Rev. J. H. Scott returned after Mr. Scofleld's departure and remained in charge of the church until October, 1878, when failing health compelled his resignation. He continued, however, in his own pleasant home until his death, Feb. 25, 1879.

The house of worship, commenced in 1866, was dedicated Sept. 6th, 1868, at a cost of |2,000. The site, a very beautiful one, was donated by Mrs. McBane, to Whom under God, the church owes its existence.

The following ministerial register presents in a very condensed form the work of the ministers who have labored in this field. It may very properly be divided into two periods.

The Rev. A. T. Norton visited Metropolis in March, 1866, and reorganized the church, consisting of eight members. The design of the following is to give the names of pastors and stated supplies who have served the church since its reorganization, and the time of their service :

The Rev. Augustus Theodore Norton, D. D., is a name worthy to be held in remembrance throughout the state of Illinois for important work which he performed as a pastor at Alton, as district secretary from 1859 up to near the time of his death, April 29th, 1884, and for his "History of Presbyterianism in Illinois," a work of great value. To estimate its proper value would be a very difficult matter. Dr. Norton labored, principally in Illinois from Oct. 25th, 1835, to the time of his death, nearly 49 years.

Dr. Norton was a man of very superior talents and culture fitted for almost any position in the church. And yet Ms sole ambition seemed to be to be useful in the destitute fields. And, therefore, he adapted himself to things as he found them. And he continued this laborious humble work, unselfishly, until late in life. A fine scholar, a grand preacher of the gospel, an editor, an author and honored with distinction in various ways, East and West, and one who could have commanded comfortable and leading positions in the church, came to Metropolis in 1866, found only three members in the Presbyterian church, which had been organized in 1850, preached several days and then eight were added to the church and from that time it assumed new life. And that was merely a sample of his work throughout this whole region of Southern Illinois until he was no longer fitted for work.

Rev. Edward Scofield

Eev. Edward Scofleld, who ministered to the Presbyterian church in Metropolis, Illinois, from August, 1872, to July, 187.3, was born Sept. 22, 1810, at Norwalk, Conn. His mother dying when he was about 8 years of age he went to New York City to live with a married sister. His parents were Peter Scotield, second in line of the same name, one of whom served in the Eevolutionary War, and Susan Scofield, nee Bessie. Id 1831 he came from New York by canal to Shawneetown, 111. He took his meals on the boat and as the boat tied up at night, slept on it. Leaving his baggage on the boat he easily walked as fast as the horses, literally walking from New York City to Shawneetown, 111. There taking up his baggage he footed it to Jacksonville, 111., where he entered the preparatory department of the Illinois college, and graduated in 1837, under Edward Beecher. The same fall he went to Lane Theological Seminary at Walnut Hills, Cincinnati, Ohio, where Dr. Lyman Beecher was president, and lived in his family, reading the first ten chapters of Uncle Tom's Cabin, with Mrs. Harriet Beecher Stowe in manuscript, and attending the same school with Henry Ward Beecher, who graduated one year after he did. Mr. Scofield graduated June 16th, 1840, and tlie same evening was married to Elizabeth Williams, in Cincinnati, ( )hio, grand daughter of Eobt. Orr, one of the early pioneers of Cincinnati.

That same month he was installed over the churches at North Bend, Cleves and Berea, Ohio. While in his first pastorate he was called to preach the funeral sermon for his parishioner and friend, President William Henry Harrison, baptizing some of his grandchildren, President Benjamin F. Harrison being among the number. While at Cleves, his church was mobbed, the windows all staved in and the pulpit demolished, by men in disguise, who came to meet the congregation on their way thither. Eev. Scofield, kneeling down on the bare ground with the congregation, said "Let us pray," and closing his eyes prayed, as he ever was gifted in prayer. That night they went to his house at midnight and threw stones, mashing all the windows down stairs. Then they went to the barn and shaved the parson's horse's tail and mane, and threw the buggy into the canal; all because at a meeting of Presbytery the ministers dared to say that slavery was a curse to this nation. Fifty dollars was offered anywhere in Kentucky where he might show his face. This was in 1843, and in 1872, he was very well able to maintain the same sentiments in this county, lie remained at Cleves until the storm had subsided. They even fixed his buggy up and returned it at night in better condition than it was when thrown into the canal.

He then moved to New Richmond, Ohio, where five large distilleries were in full force, and some of the owners members of the church, but were not long allowed to hold their names there, after he took charge. At the same time he preached at Batavia, Morrow and Munro, Ohio, moving to Batavia in 1847, where he remained seven years. He also preached at Anderson, Ind., seven years and spent seven more years at Mishawaka, Ind., being there from 1861 to 1867.

He was thoroughly imbued with the missionaiy spirit, and in the early years of his ministry did much successful and lasting work in the organization of churches and building up feeble congregations. In his ministry of thirty-nine years, God not only blessed his ordinary labors, as a means of the salvation of souls, but also crowned his efforts, in permitting him to enjoy ten extensive revivals in his fields of labor.

Besides many articles for periodicals, he published treatises on "Family Government," of which there was a second edition, and a translation of the same in Aramaic; "Civil Government and the Rebellion;" and ''The Solar Heavens^ - a New- Theory."

The Ninth Indiana Regiment, which went from that place, wanted him to go as chaplain, but he could not leave a sick wife and a large family of young children. He composed hymns, which Vi'ore sung in the regiment, and his "Civil Government and Rebellion" was distributed by the Christian commission.

He came from Lena, 111., to Centralia, then to Metropolis, and last to Somonauk, 111. He died in the parsonage at Somonauk, Oct. 12th, 1878, surrounded by all his children, members in his beloved church. His last words to his wife were: "The gates are open; Blessed Jesus, I am coming." Two sons-in-law and four grandchildren, supported his faithful wife, who had been partner in all his joys and sorrows for thirty-eight years, and who died March 5th, 1899, at the same place. They lie side by side in the beautiful cemetery midway between Somonauk and Sandwich, 111. They had ten children, three of whom died in early infancy, and Charles Scofleld, who will be remembered in connection with Towle & Co.'s saw mill, who resided three years with his sister, Mrs. R. W. McCartney, of Metropolis, 111., died May 27th, 1894, at Somonauk, 111.

Rev. J, H. Scott

The Rev. Joseph H. Scott, served the Metropolis Presbyterian church from July 6, 1866, to October, 1878, except the time during which the church was supplied by Rev. Edward

He was the son of Ldnus and Minerva Scott, and was born in Becket, Berkshire county, Mass., March 22nd, 1825, and departed this life, Feb. 26, 1879. April 20th, 1850, he was married to Miss Ellen E., daughter of Rev. Veron D. and Charlotte H. (Curtis) Taylor, in Cleveland, Ohio.

His fields of labor were seven years in Givensburg, Summit county, Ohio, and tliree years as a home missionary in West Liberty, la. His health having failed, he sought a milder climate, and moved to Mineral Ridge, Ohio. On account of continued ill health he gave up his cherished work, and served as quartermaster clerk for two years in the South during the Civil War. He resumed the work of the ministry, coming to Metropolis in July, 1866.

Rev. Scott was a man of most amiable disposition, consistent Christian character, good natural talents, education, general scholarship, and very self-sacrificing disposition. Without apparent defect he combined in a high degree many excellencies, and appeared as a most consecrated ambassador of Christ.

I. The illustrations of the power of the faith of the Gospel as brought to view in this history. Paul says of such, Heb., 11:32-39: "These all obtained a good report," and "of whom the world was not worthy." Here we have before our eyes, glorious illustrations of the transforming power of the Gospel, not only in the work and personal character of the ministry, but also the membership of this church. How wonderful it would appear could we see it as it is in reality! If those who ore glorified could be brought to view as they now are, after their conflicts in this life with the powers of darkness, how exalted would they appear!

Congregational Church Elder J. L Brandenberg

examples of faith should encourage us to faithfulness and selfconsecration. To endure the trials, keeping in view the great eternity to which we are hastening.

On Friday, May 17, 1889, Rev. Roland W. Purdue, State Evangelist of the Illinois Home Missionary Society of the Congregational church, arrived in Metropolis City with a Gospel tent for the purpose of holding a series of evangelistic meetings. The tent was pitched on a vacant lot in the western part of town and on Saturday evening, May 18, 1889, the first service was held. On Sunday evening the congregation was large and the interest which became so general, seemed to begin with the first service. On Tuesday, May 21, Rev. F. A. Miller of Villa Ridge, arrived and took charge of the music, and was an imxportant factor in the success of the work. Large numbers attended these meetings from evening to evening, the average attendance reaching about 500 persons. Though at times it was much larger than this number, some meetings probably reaching 1,000, it is impossible to properly estimate the whole number of conversions during these meetings. Certainly hundreds resolved upon a Christian life, and scores made a confession of their faith in Christ. As these meetings continued and grew in interest numbers expressed a desire for tjie organization of a Congregational church, and in accordance with thl'^ desire a meeting of all those interested in such a movement was called on Saturday evening, June 29th, 1889. Rev. James Tompkins, D. D., of Chicago, Superintendent of the Illinois H. M. S., was present to assist in the meeting. After prayer and conference together, it was unanimously voted as the sense of the meeting that a Congregational church be organized in this city and steps to effect the same be immediately taken. Many having carefully read the manual for churches prepared by Rev. Dr. Tompkins, it was voted to make said manual the basis of organization, and that the covenant bind- ing them together be taken publicly Sunday, June 30, 1889, at 10 :30 a. m. At the appointed hour a large congregation assembled in the gospel tent. After devotional exercises a suitable sermon was preached by Rev. Dr. Tompkins and fifty-four persons stood and entered into covenant as charter members.

The meetings were continued one week longer, and July 7th there were ten accessions at the morning service and the young church held its first communion service that afternoon. A Sunday school was organized and started with the church on its work and mission. At the mid-week meeting July 10th, the name Trinity Congregational church was proposed by Mrs. A. P. Oakes, and readily adopted by the church. After completing the organization the next consideration was a building to worship in. However, the regular Sunday services were held sometimes in the tent, and sometimes when the weather was not favorable, services were held in the court house, while the mid-week meetings were held generally at the home of some member. About August 1st, a suitable lot having been found. Brother E. G. B. McKee advanced the money and bought it for the church. August 26th, the trustees were elected a building committee, and the church voted to erect a house of worship to be built of brick with stone trimmings. In October work was begun and progressed favorably. January 21:th, 1890, the church called its first pastor, the Rev. J. Wesley Johnson of Joplin, Mo.

By March, 1890, the building was enclosed and prepara tions were made for holding first services therein some time in April, but on March 27, a terrible storm, since known as the cyclone, passed over this community, and among the losses the young church was at first thought to be a complete loss. Like the Israelites when they came to the banks of the Red Sea and could not turn right or left or backward, they had apparently reached the end, when the good pastor came to the rescue with the advice ''stand still and see the salvation of the Lord.'"' Soon the sister churches of the state rallied grandly to the rescue and the work of taking down and rebuilding the walls was begun June 29th, 1890, the floors being laid, a small space was cleared of lumber and work benches, &c., and the first service was held just one year after its organization. By the kindness of Mr. Ed. Brauer serAdces had been held upstairs over his store during April, May and June. The So. Asso elation having been voted to Metropolis for September, 1890, and the church being well-nigh completed, it was thought that Sunday, Sept. 21st, would be an appropriate time to dedicate the church to the cause for which it had been erected. Revs. Dr. Tompkins, R. W. Purdue and F. A. Miller, all of whom had been instrumental in effecting the organization, were present and participated in the dedicatory services. The property thus consecrated; having cost |9,200. Dr. Johnson served the church faithfully and well as pastor until Oct. 28th, 1891, when he resigned the pastorate, being called to another field of labor. On Feb. 28th, 1892, the Rev. Frank B. Hines of Carthage, Mo., accepted a call to become the pastor of this church. He proved to be a most excellent pastor and the church grew and prospered grandly under his pastoral guidance and in the two and one-half years of his pastorate, ninety-four persons were added to our membership. One prominent feature of his work was benevolence. He never wearied of giving and stimulating others to give to missions. He severed his relations with this church in June, 1894, to accept the Presidency of the Southern Collegiate Institute, located at Albion, Edwards county. 111., in which capacity he is still serving.

In October, 1894, the church extended a call to the Rev. P. M. France of Lyndon, 111. The call was accepted and Mr. France served the church until June, 1895, when he accepted the pastorate of the church at Seward, 111. In September, 1895, Rev. A. H. Chittenden of Vermillion, S. D., assumed the pastorate of the church who together with his family proved indeed an acquisition not only to the church but to society in general. Owing to a great financial depression which prevailed at that time the church felt unable financially to retain them longer and in October, 1896, they accepted a call to a church at Sac City, Iowa, which church they are still serving. January 1st, 1897, Rev. R. W. Purdue (who had first introduced Congregationalism into Metropolis and this entire section of Southern Illinois, assumed the pastorate), but the wave of financial depression was still on and there was hanging over the church an indebtedness of some seven or eight hundred dollars and this together with the fact that many of our most active members had removed their residences to other places had somewhat discouraged the remaining membership and though Mr. Purdue worked with that same energy which had hitherto characterized his ministry, yet things were not in that prosperous state which had blessed the early history of the church, and Mr. Purdue, after twelve months' service, resigned the pastorate to enter again the evangelistic field. The first eight months of 1898 was spent without a pastor in an effort to economize, it being agreed among the members to maintain the Sunday school and prayer meeting services, and make our regular weekly contributions, the same to be applied on our indebtedness, and to continue until all indebtedness was cancelled. This plan as may be supposed proved something of a failure, for those who urged this method most strongly, forgot to make their contributions and after the lapse of a few months four of our strongest and most active men resolved themselves into a committee to make a personal canvass of the :;hurch membership first, and then the friends of the church for pledges for free-will offerings to be used to cancel the church debt. Their efforts were crowned with a brilliant success. x4t the close of the year the pledges were redeemed and the entire indebtedness was found to be |91.46, which was not bearing interest.

In September of this year, 1898, Rev. 0. A. Bruner of Valparaiso, Ind., having previously been tendered and accepted a call, assumed our pastorate. His ministry has been marked with that degree of success that at the conclusion of the first twelve months' service the church unanimously voted to retain him our pastor indefinitely. June 30th being the tenth anniversary of the organization of the church, it was voted by the members to celebrate the occasion in an appropriate manner. There being but |91.46 indebtedness, the pastor resolved that that amount should be cancelled and accordingly took the matter in hand with the satisfactory result that not only this amount was secured, but enough additional was added to re- insure the church building, which policy was just expiring. It was furthermore, decided to invite all former pastors, together with those who were instrumental in bringing about the organization, to be present and participate in the commemorative exercises, but each showed good and sufficient reason for their non attendance and all sent congratulations and a hearty, "(lod bless you."

Thus the exercises were confined to our own people, the choir, the pastor and the clerk. The choir certainly did their part well and not only satisfied but highly gratified the audience. The pastor talked briefly on the future of the church, which though wholly conjectural, was in perfect keeping with the capabilities of the church only ten years old and owning a property costing more than |9,000 with no incumbrance was, he thought, a record of which the church might feel justly proud, while truly thankful. The clerk gave a statement of the work done by the church as shown by the records in the ten years just ending, in which these facts were developed that the church had been organized with fifty-four charter members, that she had since provided a church home for 192 individuals, making a total membership of 246 persons, fifty-six of whom were admitted from the Sunday school. Of this number thirty-eighl have been granted letters to unite with other congregations, seventeen have transferred their membership to the congregation in heaven; others have fallen by the wayside, but 120 had withstood the test of adversity and financial depression and that God had heard and answered their prayer, that the tenth anniversary might find the church free from all indebtedness. There has been gathered little by little from the Ladies' Society, the Christian Endeavor Society, personal and parish contributions and from the H.M. S. until we find the total amount paid into our treasury has reached more than |23,600, a sum which places us out of debt. Out of debt so far as financial obligation is concerned, but deeply indebted to heaven. We also find the church to have been served by five efficient pastors, all of whom have rendered faithful service, which has been characterized with an earnest endeavor to promote the spiritual, intellectual, moral and social growth, not only of our own honseliold of faith, but of creating feelings of Christian fellowship and good will among other denominations and we're now being served by a young though consecrated and zealous pastor, who is leading on to victory, and thus Trinity Congr<,gtitional church in launched on the second decade of its existence delivered of all its hampering limitations, with great possibilities before her and Divine favor upon her. And after recounting the mercies of the Lord toward us and the great things which He hath wrought thtough His church in the past, w(i are resolved to press forward in this grand movement, marching ever under the motto which chimed over Bethlehem: "Peace on Earth, Good Will Toward Men."

St. Rose'S Catholic Church

It is universally admitted that the pioneer of civilization in the present State of Illinois was a Catholic missionary. A Catholic priest was the first European who stood on the soil of Illinois. And there is also hardly any doubt that a French Catholic missionary was the first one to offer public service to the God of Christians within the boundaries of the present county of Massac. The sources from which its early history is compiled warrant this assertion. Still many years elapsed before Massac county was to have a Catholic church. This was owing not to any religious indifEerentism, but to the small number of Catholics residing therein. For several years the Catholics of Metropolis and vicinity had assembled in a hall for their Divine worship when in the spring of 1896 they resolved, encouraged and urged on by their energetic and zealous pastor, Rev. John Duft'y, to build a church, in which the different ceremonies of their religion could be executed with more ease and splendor. Work was begun at once, and in the fall of the same year the edifice, a substantial frame structure, was completed. On the 7th of October it was formally dedicated by the bishop of the diocese, in the presence of a large concourse of people. The church was placed under the patron-

Soon after the dedication of the church Father Duffy resigned as pastor. He was succeeded by the Rev. Francis Pieper, who is still in charge. During his pastorate the church has been practically cleared of debt and much has been done to beautify its interior, several improvements being yet in petto. Considering the small number of Catholics that reside in Metropolis, it must be said that the church they have erected speaks well for their religious zeal, devotion and liberality.

United Brethren In Christ

For years the good people of what is known as East Metropolis felt the need of a house of worship in their midst, and one in which they could "worship God according to the dictates of their consciences." Accordingly by the pious and zealous assistance of Eev. Mrs. M. W. Lennox, a powerful preacher, a class of 153 was organized Jan. 8th, 1895, and set in order. So earnest were these Christian workers that on Aug. 18th, 1895, the same year, a neat, commodious house of worship was dedicated by Bishop Castle under the most favorable circumstances.

Eev. J. L. Brandenburg, whose likeness appears elsewhere, was the first presiding elder; Messrs. James Tomlinson, deceased, John Kennedy, Hiram Brown, W. H. Hailey, and James A. Annis were the first trustees; James A. Annis was the first class leader; William Travelstead and Robert Shaw, Stewarts; James Tomlinson and Frank Ogden, finance committee; George Woodward was the first Sunday school superintendent.

work; George W. Hines, who, by the way, is now a preacher of power; Joe Brown, stewart; John W. Blackburn, who also served as alderman, and W. P. Smith, president of the Endeavor; also Mesdames Travelstead, Blackburn, Woodward, Tomlinson, Fowler, and Miss Nellie Bess. The amount of good resulting from this church cannot be reckoned on this earth.

Methodism

The history of Methodism opens in the latter part of the year 1829 at the Oxford University, England, where four young men - John Wesley, Charles Wesley, Robert Kirkham and William Morgan - had banded themselves together for mutual assistance, both in scholarship and piety. There was greatneedindeed for such lielp, for at that day scholarship and piety were the two most unusual attainments among University men. For the purpose of improving their minds, these four young University men agreed to spend three or four evenings together each week, in reading the Greek Testament and the Greek and Latin Classics.

On Sunday evenings they studied Divinity. To improve their souls they adopted a set of rules for holy living, including an exact observance of all the duties set forth in the prayer book of the English church, and such other rules as they were able to make for themselves, all of which they kept as strictly as if they had found them in Exodus or Deuteronomy. Their diligence in study, and the remarkable sanctity of their man ners soon brought upon them a storm of ridicule and abuse, and the name Methodist was applied to them in derision, on account of the regularity of their work and lives. Hence the name Methodist, or Methodism.

This was the rise of Methodism, as given by historians, John and Charles Wesley of Oxford University, and Presbyters of the Church of England. Their evangelical labors were accompanied by an extraordinary Divine influence. Other ministers and many lay preachers were raised up to aid them, and throughout England, Scotland and Ireland, arose United Societies of men having the fomi and seeking the power of Godliness. These subsequently became the Wesleyan churches of Great Britain.

In 1766 Philip Embury, a Wesleyan local preacher from Ireland, began to preach in New York City, and formed a society, now the John street church. Thomas Webb, a captain in the British army, also a local preacher, preached in New York City, and vicinity. In 1771 Mr. Wesley sent Francis Asbury and Richard Wright to this country. They came, both Godly men. Francis Asbury became the first American Bishop of the Methodist church.

At the close of the Revolutionary War there were about eighty traveling preachers and about fifteen thousand members. When the independence of the United States was acknowledged by the treaty of 17S-S, the American Methodists, most of whom had been members of the Church of England, were now, totally disentangled from both the State and the English hierarchy. And Mr. Wesley said that they are now at full liberty simply to follow the Scriptures and the primitive church, and we judge it best that they should stand fast in that liberty, wherewith God has so strangely made them free." Many of the parish clergy returned to England, leaving the societies without a shepherd, or any one to administer the sacraments to them. As the spiritual children of Mr. Wesley they sent up an appeal to him for advice and help.

Mr. Wesley responded by sending them two Presbyters (or elders) for the American churches, viz: Thomas Vasey and Richard Whatcoat. These Mr. Wesley set apart by prayer and the imposition of hahds; also he set apart the Rev. Dr. Thomas Coke to be general superintendent or Bishop. Mr. Wesley instructed Dr. Coke to ordain Francis Asbury as joint superintendent also, to assist in the work of these societies in America.

At the ''Christmas conference," begun in Baltimore, Maryland, December 24, 1784, sixty preachers met Dr. Coke and his companions. The plan of Mr. Wesley was submitted then, and was unanimously and heartily approved. Thereupon they organized the Methodist Episcopal church, and adopted the arti- cles of religion and the Sunday service prepared by Mr. Wesley. These articles of religion, twenty-five in number, constitute the doctrines of the church. The Methodist Episcopal church does not require of any one, as an article of religion, to be believed and practiced, anything that is not expressly taught in the Word of Grod. These articles of religion we hold to be an expression of what God's Word teaches upon the several subjects named by them. The sole object of these rules, regulations and usages of the Methodist church is that it may fulfil to the end of time its original Divine vocation, as a leader in evangelization, in all true reforms, and in the promotion of fraternal relations among all branches of the one church of Jesus Christ with whom it is co-worker in the spiritual conquest of the world for the Son of God. There are but two orders in the Methodist ministry, namely deacons and elders.

Methodism in Metropolis dates back for more than sixty years. Rev. Samuel Boicourt and Rev. Samuel Peter were among the first to preach in this city. They used a private residence at first, and afterwards a log school house, as a place to hold their religious services. This state of things continued until about 1853 and 1854, when the first church building was erected in the City of Metropolis. The subscription was raised by Col. R. A. Peter. He was class leader and Sunday school superintendent at that time. The church was begun in 1853 and completed in 1854. This church building was subsequently remodeled and enlarged several times. The Methodist people of Metropolis have been served by some of the most eminent pastors of the church. The names and time of service cannot be obtained now, for the reason that all the records of this church, or nearly all, prior to 1870, have been destroyed by fire. Only a very few of the pastors" names can be obtained. Rev. M. N. Powers served this charge in 1861. In 1872 Strange P. Brooks, one year; 1873, A. B. Rohrbough, one year; 1874, J. H. Garrett, one year; 1875, C. J. Houts, two years; 1877, G. W. Scawthon, three years; 1880; J. J. Boyer, one year; 1881, C. P. Wilson, three years; 1884, L. W. Thrall, three years; 1887, T. J. I»avis, three years; 1890, John F. Harmon, three years; 1893,

Methodism in Metropolis has been progressive. The pres ent beautiful structure was begun in the labors of Eev. T. J. Davis in 1889, and completed under the ministry of Rev. John F. Harmon. In the issue of the Massac Journal, Jan. 13, 1892, we find the following description of the building:

"The new Methodist church building, which is now Hearing completion, is located on the corner of Ferry and Fifth streets, near the court house. It is an ornamental building of (lothic structure. The main building is 57x80 feet. It is sixteen feet posted with gable roof. The tower is situated in the northwest angle and is 12^ feet square, and the spire, when completed, will reach an altitude of 90 feet. The infant class room is an annex to the main building on the south side and is an elegantly arranged room connected to the main room by glass doors suspended on weights, which can be raised at will. The gallery extends all around the west wing of the building. Th(.' windows are Gothic in shape, and finely selected stained glass is used throughout the building. The building is covered with tin shingles which make a very beautiful and lasting roof. Tin; auditorinm will be furnished with ash pews, sufficient to seat, including the gallery, about one thousand persons. The chancel front, in the east, is finished in one circular arch. The choir will be situated on the left of the chancel, and still further on is a door opening into the pastor's study. In the rear of the chancel is a beautiful circular window in the center of which is a life size figure of a dove. The main window of the south wing, was placed there in memory of Mr. and Mrs. W. P. Bruner, and Sammy and Niles Daily; on the left is a small window in memory of Shelby and Rhea Norris; on the right is a <imall window in memory of Mrs. F. A. Trousdale. The main window of the north wing was placed there in memory of Mrs. Abigail Bigelow, James S. Yost and Mrs. A. V. Cleveland. The main window of the west wing was placed there by the Ladies' Sewing Society of 1891; on the left of this is a small window, in memory of Abram Bruner. On the right of the chancel are three small windows, one in memory of Mrs. Margaret and B,

O. Thrift; one in memory of Mrs. Mary Howard and one in memory of Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Houts. On the left of the chancel is a small window in memory of the choir of 1891. Several other small windows were put in by different parties, containing gem quotations from the Bible. The ceiling is covered with beaded lumber, and sub-divided into panels of graceful design by embossed gum of a beautiful figure. Planted to the ceiling are five diamonds. In the center is an octagonal star of elaborate finish, from which will depend at present the main chandelier, afterwards an electric light. From top floor to level of ceiling it is 26 feet. Gallery will contain 150 movable seats. One vestibule, which is located in the base of the tower, opens into the auditorium by three large doors, the other, which is located on the south side, opens into the auditorium by two doors. All the casings are of embossed lumber finished off with Berry Bros.' Hard Oil Finish. The building is heated by two Peninsular furnaces at a cost of about |350. Good taste and judgment are displaj'ed in every detail. The church is a conspicuous ornament to the city. It will cost when completed about 112,000." - The Metropolis Eepublican, Jan. 13, 1892.

St. Paul'S German Evangelical

From 1869 to 1876 the ministers who served the congregation were the Reverends Winneke, Laurence Kruger, Sapper and Schmitz, and the records of their ministry have been lost.

In 1876, the Rev. D. Eschenbremer, of Paducah, reorganized the church, preached every Wednesday night and occasionally on Sunday until August, 1877, when the Rev. J. R. Rausch was appointed pastor, serving until July, 1886.

In 1878 the congregation joined the German Evangelical Synod of North America. In 1880 the parsonage was erected and enlarged in 1892. In 1888 the steeple was built, a bell added, and the church remodeled.

The pastors from 1886 are the Reverends G. Thomas Meyer, F. Eggen, F. Hemi«lemau, J. Bungeroth, and F. SefEzig, who occasionally preaches for the church yet. From November, 1876, to September 1, 1886, there were 193 baptized, 69 confirmed, 41 couples married, and 119 buried. At present the church has no regular pastor. Many of our best citizens have been enrolled as members of this church.