Mercer County, Illinois - Chapter 15: Religious Organizations, 1914

Chapter 15: Religious Organizations

In the early settlement of the territory there were centers of influence, moral forces, divine light, which are not now appreciated to their full value. There were many in the county at Keithsburg, New Boston, Pleasant Bluff and Duncan Prairie. They did much to give Mercer County a splendid heritage. The men who served in these early days were of a strong, true and noble type. Of these were Revs. Eld." Harris, E. Underwood, J. C. Post, T. M. Matthews, C. C. Moore, J. P. R. Young, William Whitehead, G. W. Benton, J. K. Barry, E. J. Odell. One of these, Elijah Jordan Odell, is still living at his home in Joy, Mercer County, Illinois. He is in good health, and is now at the ripe old age of over ninety, awaiting the reward of his labors. Besides these there were Baptist religious centers at Millersburg, Sugar Grove and Hamlet. The Hamlet Church is now the Reynolds Church, the Sugar Grove and Millersburg interests have been taken up by the present Antioch Church.

The Methodist Church no doubt is the pioneer church of the county, and no doubt it was the first church organization in New Boston. The first church building in the county was erected in New Boston, it being the Methodist There was a Baptist church in New Boston that may have been erected about the same time; also a Universalist church building erected in New Boston Township near the foot of the bluff. All of these churches in the early history of the county had church organizations and pastors. I do not think the Baptists had any pastor after 1855. A man by the name of Brunhall was the last pastor and held the last services in the church, and the church has long ago been abandoned. The sand has blown in the windows and over it, as it was located south of the Patterson Hotel. It was the general custom of the Methodist people to hold camp meetings in some grove, and in Mercer County the location was in Sugar Grove, northeast of Aledo, about three miles northeast of the north side of Edwards. This was a fine grove of hard maple trees on the farm of John M. Ashbaugh. The meetings were held in that grove for a great many years, and later some time perhaps in the early '70s, they were changed to the east side of the public highway on the land of John Artz, but not more than one- eighth of a mile from the former place. They have not been held, however, for over thirty years. At these meetings persons came from all over the county and for forty or fifty miles away. A great many of them would bring their families and some live in tents, but the majority of those who camped on the ground had inclosed buildings made of "ruff" lumber. There was a building for the minister, and a platform in front of it where thev would speak in conducting the services, and in front of that platform there was a little inclosure of logs, where the zealous shouting Methodists would be seated, and frequently prayer meetings and other special meetings would be held there in that inclosure. It was called by the vulgar "the bull pen," and during the meetings every one seemed to vie with the other in seeing who could make the most noise by responses and by praver or otherwise. Thev would join in singing a song, and then in praying, some one being called on to lead, but so many would join in praying and in responding that the leader would not be heard above the din of the other voices. In 1867 at the close of the meeting, which was on Monday, the members present formed in a line some two or three hundred, and then commenced singing, "Shall We Journey to the River," etc., and the one at the head would start and go around and shake hands with all of the others, and then the second, and so on, until the last one had passed around. It was very wonderful and glorious to hear the singing, all joining in the song, and to see the people shake hands with each other with joy and gladness.

Another early Methodist church in the county was in the Village of Berlin, in Richland Grove Township, now the Village of Sewdona. This church was erected in 1834 and is still standing, but the organization no longer exists.

There was a United Brethren church at Keithsburg in the earlier years, Thomas Marlat being the minister, or, at least, one of the earliest ministers. Saint Clair Ross was a minister of that denomination in 1855-56. The church organization went out of existence a great many years ago, and the only United Brethren church in the county is one that now is at Sherrard, in Richland Grove Township. The only Universalist church now existing in the county is one in Suez Township.

The Wesleyan Methodists early in the county history organized in Henry Countv, and from there the services were commenced at Hopewell, in Rivoli Township, where a church was subsequently organized and remained in existence with a pastor until very recently. The church building is still there, but the society has au- thorized the trustees to dispose of the church and close the same. There was one more Wesleyan church in Greene Township, west of Viola, which existed for quite a number of years, and Joshua M. Snyder was the pastor for a great number of years.

There was a Presbyterian church once organized in New Boston about 1870, and erected a church building and had services for a few years, but the society and church have gone out of existence.

The Mormons Anti-Polygamists have a small church in Millersburg, but do not have services now, and also have a church in Duncan Township, which still holds services. There is an organization also of some kind in Aledo, but they have a special school held at the private home of Mordecai Terrv.

The Spiritualists are and have been for many years tolerably strong in New Boston, and for several years they had Sunday services there in a public hall. They do not have any such services any longer, but have their seances.

The Seventh Day Adventists have a church southwest of Aledo, in Millersburg Township, and a church building. They are the only organization of the kind in the county.

The Free Presbyterian Church had an organization in the Carnahan Settlement, east of Aledo, in Greene Township, and in the Kiddoo Settlement, west of Aledo and south of Joy in Millersburg Township, some time prior to 1 R5 2. There was a church building bv the societv in the Kiddoo neighborhood and the services in the Carnahan neighborhood were held in a building that was used for some other purpose. Probably Joseph Whitham was the first pastor in 1852, or about that time, to 1856. Then the Rev. James S. Poage came to Aledo and a society was organized here in 1859 or i860, and a church was erected on the ground where the Methodist Episcopal Church now stands, and the original Free Presbyterian Courch is part of the Methodist Church that is now reconstructed. Rev. James S. Poage served as pastor for all three of the churches until they were disorganized some time after the close of the Civil war, about 1867 or 1868, and no church of that denomination now exists in the county. Rev. James S. Poage was one of the ablest ministers of any denomination in the county. A man of excellent ability and very popular with the people; he died in Aledo about ten years ago.

Mr. Hartman now lives. The Reverend Mr. Chamberlain was for many years the pastor of that church and one or two others at different times whose names I do not remember, were installed as pastors. The church was very feeble and had to have assistance in the erection of its building and in the payment of the pastor, and services ceased some thirty years ago, and the church building and lot was sold to Mr. Hartman about three years ago. He took down the building and erected his private residence on the ground. So far as can be learned there never has been any other Episcopal church society in the county.

There was a German Lutheran church organized in Aledo in the early years of 1856 or 1857 and the Reverend Mr. Hammer was the pastor for some two or three years, and they had services in Aledo every alternate Sunday, but the church was disorganized during the early '60s and the Swedish Lutheran Church has taken its place subsequently.

There was a Congregational church organization in Viola in the early '50s. There was a Congregational church organized in Aledo about 1868 and they erected a building on the southeast corner of College Avenue and Tenth Street, which is now occupied by George Werts, Sr. The church was organized particularly through the instrumentality of Judge John S. Thompson. Judge Thompson had become, with his wife, a member of the Presbyterian Church of Aledo, and in a few years thereafter the minister of the church, Mr. Williams, got into a quarrel and the judge took part in the quarrel and organized a second Presbyterian church. After the Second Presbyterian Church was organized, about 1868, a few years, the Congregational Church was organized by him, and the most of the members of the Second Presbyterian Church went with him and the Second Church went out of existence. This church remained until some time in 1893 or T^94, perhaps a little later, and among the ministers was Rev. Robert Nourse, for two or three years, who was a very able minister and afterwards became a lecturer of some notoriety in the United States. The church had some very prominent persons as members and held a very prominent position for years, but on account of deaths of some of the members, it was deemed wise to disorganize. The church at Viola also went out of existence. There is a Congregational church now at Sherrard, and one in New Windsor, which are still in existence.

Joy; (2) in the Carnahan neighborhood east of what is now Aledo; and (3) in Aledo, the latter being established by Rev. J. S. Poage. The negroes having been freed during the Civil war, the Free Presbyterian Church went out of existence soon afterward. Mr. Poage then became a member of the Presbyterian Church, but in the '70s served the Congregational congregations at Aledo, New Windsor and Rio.

The Mercer County Ministerial Association has been in existence ever since soon after the Civil war and has done much to prevent a clash of the sects or creeds. Their mission is one of peace for all seekers after righteousness and salvation. Prominent ministers from abroad often address this association. In 1870 they held a four days' convention at Aledo and ended with a grand concert, of which Prof. P. P. Bliss, of Chicago, the famous sacred musical composer, was conductor.

The County Bible Society and the Countv Sunday School Association have been prominent and active for a great many years. It would be difficult to tell all the good they have accomplished. In 1888 there were fortv-three Sunday schools in the county, with a total membership of 3,489. The Sabbath school workers held normal institutes with much success. Thomas Candor was for many years president of the County Bible Society.

Occasionallv, conferences of the different denominations have been held in this countv. George R. Wendling replied to Robert G. Ingersoll at Aledo in June, 1878. An immense audience heard him. Right Reverend Bishop Burgess spoke here about the same time on "When He Came to Himself," from the parable of the prodigal son. At all times in early years the camp meetings at Sugar Grove were famous for the religious zeal kindled, the number of church members secured and the remarkable sermons of the old-time ministers.

The great revival of Reed and Grant in 1899 was a memorable religious advancement. Thev were given a chorus of 100 voices. At the first meeting were 600 persons. Twenty converts were secured in the first four days and 125 at the end of one week. But the revival conducted by "Billy" Sunday in 1905 surpassed anything of the kind ever held here. A total of 959 converts were secured in two weeks at Aledo and the contributions amounted to $[,919.13. He went to Keithsburg and conducted a few stirring meetings. Wood and Rice, evangelists, were here in 1910 and secured a number of converts. Evangelist Redding held forth at the Methodist Church, Aledo, in February, 1913. In 1907 Hicks and Galloway, evangelists.

Now will follow a more specific description of the churches late and early so far as information has been received after persistent inquiry.

The first meeting for the purpose of organizing a church at Aledo was held at a schoolhouse near the village, November 8, 1856. The Rev. William Townley, Rev. John H. Nevius, together with Thomas Candor, an elder of the Pope River Presbyterian Church, were the committee appointed for the purpose of organizing a new church at Aledo. Services were held on that day and on Sabbath, November 9th, and the organization was completed on Monday, November 10th. The members who joined at that time were : James Officer and Mary Jane Officer, his wife; Jacob Vanbuskirk and Mary Ann Vanbuskirk, his wife; William McCandless and Sarah Ann McCandless, his wife; John McK.ee, Martha Detwiler, David Brown, Edgar Allen and Eliza Allen, his wife; Simeon Macy and Amanda M. Macy, his wife; Eliza B. Townley, Hattie B. Townley and Margaret Beck. The first elders were William W. McCandless and Edgar Allen, and the first deacon was Jacob Vanbuskirk. Rev. E. K. Lynn was the first installed pastor. The first board of trustees was Simeon Macy, John McKee and John S. Thompson. Rev. William Townley, formerly of Crown Point, Indiana, was the first minister. On July 1 8, 1858, Mrs. Mary Wilson, widow of Judge J. M. Wilson, was received on certificate from the church of Galesburg, Illinois, and has been a member of this church longer than any other person at this time.

The first church building used bv the church organization in Aledo was in the Hollenbaek House. The first church built was the present building in 1871 and dedicated December 31st. The present membership of this church is about four hundred and fifty and the present pastor is Rev. Arnold E. Moody. There are Presbyterian churches in Mercer County in Keithbsurg, Seaton, Viola, Millersburg, Perryton, Norwood, Hamlet, Peniel and Aledo.

Previous to the close of the Black Hawk war the territory now occupied bv the counties of Mercer, Henderson and Warren was very sparsely settled, but with the year 1834 settlers began to arrive, chiefly from Pennsylvania, Ohio and the Carolinas. Soon after, they began to make provisions for religious organizations and the building of churches. In old Henderson a congregation was organized in 1830 among the Paxtons, Turnbulls, Rodgers, Nashes, Kendalls, Sunlies, Panes, Morrisons and Atchisons. Cedar Creek

Associate Reformed Church was organized in 1835 among the Mc- Crearys, Brownlees, Arthurs, Hannas, Martins, Maleys, Porters, McCoys, Gibsons and Wallaces. Pope Creek, now Sunbeam, Associate Reformed Congregation was organized in 1842 among the Neviuses, McCreights, Pollocks, McPherrens, Smiths, Rices, Dilleys, Hardys, Moores and Javs.

Before the organization of church societies in Mercer County, some families from near what is now Aledo and vicinity frequently went on special occasions and were entertained for days among their friends in Warren County, at Cedar Creek and Henderson.

In the center of the ridge extending east and west through what is now Mercer County, were located the Carnahans, Collinses, Mc- Gaheys, Russells, Stewarts, Haverfields, Galloways and others who had been raised in the Associate Reformed churches. These felt they must have church services of their own, hence in 1853 or 1854, Rev. Matthew Bigger, pastor at Pope Creek Associate Reformed Church, preached occasionally to these few members of the Associate Reformed Church living in Millersburg Township. Services were generally held in the home of Samuel Carnahan, or sometimes in the schoolhouse near his place.

On September 22, 1855, Rev. Matthew Bigger, with R. M. Miller and Samuel Wright, proceeded to organize a congregation in Millersburg, with the following charter members: Samuel Carnahan, St., Mrs. Jane Carnahan, James Haverfield, Mrs. Mary Haverfield, William Haverfield, Mrs. Ruie Haverfield, Samuel Carnahan, Jr., Mrs. Emeline Carnahan, David Galloway, Mrs. Jerusha Galloway, Miss Elizabeth Galloway, Mary Ellen Galloway, Miss Isabel Galloway, James S. Russell, Mary C. Russell.

Samuel Carnahan, Sr., and William Haverfield were elected elders of the church. Rev. David C. Cochran was installed as the first regular pastor, November 9, 1856, and continued two years. He was also pastor of the Twin Grove (now Viola) and Millersburg congregations. The first organization was effected at Millersburg.

In 1856 the Town of Aledo was laid out and the name of Millersburg congregation was soon afterward changed to Aledo. In the fall of 18^6 Reverend Bigger and his family moved to Aledo and he often preached here in the evening, having preached to the Pope Creek charge in the morning. In 1858 the Associate Presbyterian Church and the Associate Reformed Presbvterian Church were united and has since been known as the United Presbyterian Church.

in the courthouse and in the house known as the James Smith House, which was then occupied as a boarding house by David Calhoun, and stood on the corner of Locust and Second streets. Occasionally Reverend Bigger preached in the home of Samuel Carnahan, in the Carnahan schoolhouse and the Kiddoo Free Presbyterian Church, as the majority of the members still lived west of Aledo.

About this time the Civil war broke out and Doctor Bigger left to serve as chaplain of the Fiftieth Regiment of Illinois Infantry. The congregation grew discouraged and could not support a minister, and it was decided that the organization must die out. However, the presbytery sent out pastors to preach to this congregation, among whom were Dr. D. A. Wallace, Rev. J. A. Reynolds, Dr. Alexander Young and others, and the congregation took on new life.

Rev. John R. McAlister was installed as pastor in October, 1862, and soon after he took charge steps were taken toward the erection of a house of worship. At that time there were but thirteen male members and some of these were able to render little financial assistance. Lumber had to be hauled from the river and the price of material was very high in war times. Farmer members did the hauling. The entire cost of the building was $2,400, and was erected on the site of the present church building. Services were first held in the new building, September 2, 1864. During Reverend Mc- Alister's pastorate, the church increased in membership and interest. December 22, 1868, Alexander W. Clokey assumed charge. In August, 1873, Thomas B. Turnbull, a student from the United Presbyterian Theological Seminary, at Allegheny, Pennsylvania, preached a sermon in Aledo. He was called to the charge April 16, 1873, having in the meantime been ordained.

By 1874 the old building had become inadequate to meet the needs of the increased congregation and the old building was sold to the Swedish Lutheran Congregation for $400, and it was moved from the lot. In due time a new building was completed and occupied.

June 21;, 1877, a tornado passed over the Town of Aledo and the church was damaged to quite an extent. Steps were at once taken to repair the church, which cost about $2,200. In the spring of 1882 the congregation decided to complete the auditorium, and on March 8, 1883, the new church was dedicated by Rev. Thomas Hanna, of Monmouth College. The cost of the building when completed was nearly thirteen thousand dollars.

Rch, Erected 1St5

He remained two years and under his pastoral charge the congregation purchased a parsonage, March 7, 1887, from Mrs. Sarah J. Macy, the cost being $1,200. In 1891 this property was sold and property was bought in the Willits and Thompson Addition at a cost of $1,500, and this is the present parsonage.

The next pastor was Rev. David M. Cleland, who remained from April 5, 1888, to September 2, 1889. The next pastor was William M. Story, April 13, 1891, to September 9, 1902.

On Sunday, December 3, 1893, Just after the congregation had assembled for worship, the church was discovered to be on fire, and although strenuous efforts were made to save the building, it was completely destroyed. However, the pews and most of the furniture were saved and were installed in the new brick building, which was erected during the summer of 1894, and was dedicated on October 24th of that year, the dedicatory sermon being preached by Rev. W. W. White, D. D. In the meantime services had been held in the Congregational Church. On the 20th of October, 1903, Rev. William G. Martin assumed pastoral charge. The present membership is 130.

The Aledo Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in the spring of 1857 by Rev. J. Shelton, then traveling Camden, now Milan circuit. In the fall of 1857 Aledo was connected with Millersburg circuit and D. A. Faulkenburg was appointed pastor. J. P. McEwen was appointed leader of this new society- The additional members were Mary McEwen, Mary M. Cool, Harriet Criss (afterwards Harriet Laughlin), Mr. Hawkins and wife, Elizabeth Baxter, Charles Moore and wife. The first Methodist service held in Aledo was in a barn located on the east side of block No. 69, lot 4 (the block on which 'Squire Young now resides). The property belonged to Mr. Manning, who, with his wife, afterward became prominent members of the church. The subsequent appointments to Millersburg circuit while Aledo was connected with Millersburg were as follows: In 1858-59, L. R. Crouch; i860, B. E. Kaufman; 1861-62, J. D. Taylor; 1863, G. C. Woodruff; 1864, J. D. Taylor. In 1865 Aledo was first appointed an independent charge, with M. D. Heckard as pastor; 1866, A. P. Hull; 1867-68, Frank Smith. During the incumbency of Reverend Smith the first vote was taken on lay representation. In 1869-70, G. I. Bailey; 1871-72-73, M. Spurlock. During the pastorate of Reverend Spurlock there was a revival in the church and nine men were taken into membership, of whom part are still members. In 1874-75, M. C. Bowlin was pastor. During the pastorate of J. D. Taylor, John S. Thompson, one of the founders of the town of Aledo, gave the building now occupied by Mrs. Lucian Doughty, on lots i and 4, block 64, to the Methodist Church for a parsonage. The building then consisted of walls ready for ceiling joist. Reverend Taylor raised money and finished the building, which was occupied as a parsonage until it was sold and a building on lot 8, block 29 (the house across the street west of Mrs. Hause) was purchased for a parsonage. This was used as such until the coming of Reverend Spurlock, when a larger building was rented. During the pastorate of Reverend Bowlin the building now occupied as a parsonage was built and has been used until the present day. In 1876-77, W. M. Collins; 1878-79, A. R. Morgan; 1880, William McPheeters; 1881, J. G. Evans; 1882-83, John D. Smith; 1884-85- 86-87, William Woolley; 1888-89-90-91, A. R. Brown; 1892-93, John Wilkenson; 1894, D. F. Wilson; 1895, R- G. Pierce; 1896-97-98-99, A. M. Stocking; 1900-01-02, J. W. Edwards; 1903, U. Z. Gilmer; 1905-06, G. C. Shaffer; 1907-08-09- 10- 1 1, T. S. Pittenger; 1912-13, J. B. Bartle. In 1862, under the administration of J. D. Taylor, the society purchased a half interest in the Free Presbyterian Church. In 1865 the Free Presbyterians sold their remaining interest in the building to the Methodists. The church was overhauled.

During the pastorate of Reverend Brown in 1890 the west twenty feet of the church was removed and the present auditorium, 42 by 60 feet, was built and the building made as good as new, and has continued to be the house of worship for the Methodist Episcopal Church from that time to the present.

Spiritually the church has had its ups and downs. Under some pastors deep spiritual interest seemed to be manifested in the lives of the members and some wonderful revivals have taken place and many additions won to the church. Most important as far as members are concerned was the ingathering after the union revival services under the leadership of Rev. William Sunday.

The church has had a steady growth in members since the organization and today holds a position of influence for good in the City. of Aledo.

It has always maintained a healthy, progressive, spiritual Sunday school and with rare exceptions, good faithful officials, and has been the means of doing much good in the community and today it has a Sundav school second to none in the county. There are about two hundred and twenty-five present every Sabbath; sometimes the number reaches 325. A fine band of young people are found in the Epworth League and all organizations of a wide-awake church are found here.

The annual conference ot 1913 reported a membership of five probationers and 495 full members. During the present year 105 have been received into membership. Following are the present members of the official board: R. J. McDonald, D. A. Hebel, J. R. Sheats, Thomas Hartman, }. G. Carlson, W. A. Lorimer. W. Pfitzenmaier, E. E. Thompson, D. E. Farr, Joseph Harbour, C. N. Vertrees, J. P. Nesbitt, J. M. Nesbitt, C. A. Anderson, T. C. Henderson, C. K. Marquis, Sidney Bolton, B. F. Townsley. D. D. Clark, B. F. Cullison, H. E. Burgess", M. C. Danford, H. H. Winger, W. C. Egbert, Harry Morgan, W. J. Brown, E. R. Burke.

On January 5, 1867, the First Baptist Church of Aledo was organized with the following constituent members: Moses White, John B. Taliaferro, Mrs. Lydia Wellett, Mrs. Ann Jones, Sarah Cash, Mary Taliaferro, Gwen Clifford, Amelia A. Burgess, Malinda Burgess, Jane C. Shafer, Aloan Harroun, N. J. Harroun, Aaron Patterson, C. W. Kay and R. H. Day. The first pastor was Rev. J. C. Post and the first clerk, R. H. Day. The first trustees elected were: William B. Crapnell, C. M. Kay, J. B. Taliaferro, Moses White, Aaron B. Shafer, Robert H. Day and Aaron Patterson. The first deacons chosen were Moses White and John B. Taliaferro. The church building was erected in 187; on the present courthouse square and was moved to the present site in 1894. It has had some periods of great difficulty but in this vear of Our Lord 1Q14 it has a membership of over eightv, is free from all debt, is beautiful in spirit, active, and in better condition for a larger work than at any time in its history. The present officers of the church are: Pastor, Rev. J. M. Jones, who has been with the church now over five vears; deacons, J. U. David, C. L. Baldwin, D. J. Odell, J. P. Berglund, W. H. Odell; trustees, C. L. Baldwin, D. J. Odell and John P. Berglund; church clerk, Mrs. G. J. Clifford; treasurer, Mrs. D. J. Odell; organist. Miss Bernice Baldwin. Bible school officers: Superintendent, O. S. Day; assistant superintendent, Clyde Baldwin; secretary, Lon Day; treasurer, W. H. Odell; primary superintendent, Mrs. Grace Gleason Ruse. Young People's Society officers: President, Miss Bernice Baldwin ; vice president, Miss Ada Gleason ; secretary. Miss Opel Ketchum ; Ladies' Circle officers: President, Mrs. C. L. Baldwin; vice president, Mrs. D. J. Odell; secretary, Mrs. G. J. Clifford. Officers of Missionary Circle are: President, Mrs. C. L. Baldwin; vice president, Mrs. D. J. Odell; secretarytreasurer, Mrs. Anna Black.

The Congregational Church at Aledo was organized February 15, 1869. They built a house of worship at once and dedicated it July 3, 1870; it cost about four thousand five hundred dollars. The first trustees were John S. Thompson, Horace E. Wright and P. Roberts; clerk and treasurer, U. S. Boice. Rev. P. F. Warner became first pastor and continued as such until 1872. Rev. Robert Nourse was pastor from 1874 t0 l%77- R-ev- W. E. Smith became pastor in 1880.

The Swedish Evangelical Lutheran at Aledo was organized Mav 19, 1873, Rev. A. Andreen presiding. At the start there were about forty members. They were without a church building until March, 1877, when they bought the old United Presbyterian Church for $400 and removed it to its present site and there refitted it at a cost of about two thousand dollars. The first trustees were J. O. Lundblad, P. Ringdall, Charles Neiberg and Samuel Anderson; deacons, C. Bjorkman, C. Runborn, John E. Swomsen and O. G. Olsen. Rev. Andreen, the first pastor, was succeeded by Rev. Nils Fersander. T. H. Winguist was pastor in 1878. In 1882 the membership was about eighty. In 1902 the old building was torn down and a fine new structure erected at a cost of about eight thousand dollars. A parsonage was built at the same time. Rev. J. B. G. Idstram was pastor in 1893 ; he was succeeded by Rev. A. T. Lundholm.

The Episcopal Church at Aledo was organized in 1870 and became an independent congregation in 1882. Their church built late in the '70s cost about four thousand dollars. Among the early rectors were Reverends Chamberlain, Brown, Gates, Allen and Farrar.

The Seventh Day Adventists held services in Aledo beginning in 1869 and continuing several years under Rev. R. F. Andrews. Finally their efforts were turned to the Marsh schoolhouse where a strong society of that faith was formed.

In November, 1909, Rev. Father Walsh of Keithsburg organized a Catholic Congregation in Aledo, one of the leading first members being Patrick O'Day. Previous to this date the few Catholics at Aledo were included in the Keithsburg parish and congregation. Plans to build a church were laid and the work was soon afterward commenced. St. John's Catholic Church at Viola and St. Joseph's Catholic Church at Preemption had been organized for several years and in 1908 had been made separate parishes under Rev. Father McKinney.

The Methodist Episcopal Church of New Boston was organized in July, [838, at the residence of Emily Burleigh. The following named were charter members : Joseph Alyea, Thorlea Alyea, Thomas Alyea, Mary Alyea, Dr. Edmond Harrell, Mr. Butler and Emily Burleigh. New Boston at that time constituted a part of what was known as Mercer Mission. The first resident pastor was Rev. George Smith, who first conducted services in the home of Emily Burleigh and later in the home of Joseph Alyea. After a year Reverend Smith was succeeded in the pastorate by Rev. Thomas M. Kirkpatrick, who remained for a similar period. He was succeeded by Reverends McMurtry, Wilson and Burr. In 1866 the society erected a parsonage at a cost of $1,500, and in 1876 a church was erected at a cost of $6,000. Methodist services in New Boston were first held in the spring and summer of 1835 in the house of Mr. McMurphy, and the second quarterly meeting of this mission was held at the residence of Lewis Noble in March. 1831;. Rev. John Jordan had charge of the services and Samuel Pinkley was class leader. The first church was erected in 1845. The New Boston charge was organized in 1857 and included Keithsburg and Antioch. The parsonage was built in 1S65. Among the pastors have been Smith, Kirkpatrick, McMurtry, Pitner, Wiley, Burr, Smith Ross, Giddings, Whatman, Hadley, Oliver, Clark, Rhodes, Morey, Woodruff, Taylor, Bartles, Scott, Wesley, Ashbaugh, Wasmuth, Bailey, Brown and others later. A new church was erected in 1875-6. The congregation still worships in the city. The old church building is used as a city hall. A new parsonage was built in 1911. The present membership does not exceed fifty.

The Baptist Societv at New Boston was organized in 1844, by Elder Hovey, with the following as charter members: William Denison and wife, James Denison and wife, Harrison Smith and wife, M. Poffenbarger and wife, E. A. Crapnell and wife, William Crapnell, William Noble and wife, Mr. and Mrs. McChesney and Miss Williamson. Elder Hovev remained in the pastorate here for five years, when he was succeeded by Elder Brimhall, who remained in charge until 1854 an(l was tne last resident pastor. In 1845 tne congregation commenced the erection of a house of worship, but this was not completed until 1848. This building was destroyed by a wind storm in 1859.

A Presbyterian Society was organized in New Boston in February, 1857, with the following charter members: Mrs. Eva Nevius, Mrs. Joseph Kane, Mrs. M. J. Edwards, Mrs. Sarah Poffenbarger, Mrs. M. J. McLaughlin and G. W. Crabb. In 1868 a church build- ing was erected at a cost of more than six thousand dollars. The first pastor was Rev. S. G. Hair. For want of support the church has long since abandoned its meetings.

A Universalist Church was organized in New Boston Township, perhaps as early as 1844. Very little concerning it can be learned. It is probable that among the early members were Dudley Willits, William Willits, Joseph Graham, Walter Pryne, Joseph Glancey, William Drury, Tyler McWhorter, H. H. Roberts, Brady Willits, J. I. Arnold, L. W. Myers and R. S. Cramer. A church was built about four miles east of New Boston at the bluff and was generally referred to as the "Bluff Church." Rev. M. Slade was pastor of this congregation in 1865. The church seems to have had a large membership and in connection with the Universalist Society at Suez appears to have exerted a strong influence throughout the county. They held several church conventions in the courthouse at Aledo in the '50s and '6os, on which occasions President Skinner, a Universalist, of Lombard University, was present and delivered addresses. Such an assembly met in July, 1858, and present were Reverends Gregg, Brown and Abbott. President Skinner was here also. All delivered addresses. In May, 1858, the Henderson River Universalist Association met in the schoolhouse at Aledo and listened to President Skinner and other able ministers and speakers. In June, 1878, the Bluff Church was burned down, presumably by an incendiary, shortly after having been repaired. It was not rebuilt.

There was a strong Free Thinkers' movement at New Boston in the '50s and '60s. The following announcement appeared in the Aledo Record in August, i860:

A meeting of the Friends of Progress will be held in New Boston, Illinois, on Saturday and Sunday, 8th and 9th of September, i860; meeting with convene on Saturday at 2 o'clock P. M.

The call for this meeting is designed to meet one of the real wants of society. Earnest and thinking minds are scattered through our community, whose aspirations for Truth and Freedom have destroyed their affinity for the prescriptive spirit of popular religious organization. Such minds feel the want of congenial communion in an atmosphere of Freedom and need awakening as only the association of kindred minds can inspire.

Reformers! Friends of Man! All who feel a desire to promote the cause of Truth and Progress - brothers, sisters, without distinction, let us meet together and freely reason on any subject that pertains to human happiness. Full long have we been taught the essential wickedness of human nature. Let us meet to exchange the

Truth which the Infinite within us has taught us and to read in each other's hearts the pleasing reality that human nature is essentially good. So shall we consecrate the time and the place while we aid each other in the great work of attaining a higher, better and more harmonious life. Able speakers from abroad are expected to meet with us. Preparations will be made to entertain friends from a distance. (Signed) Dudley Willits, William Drury, Joseph Graham, Tyler McWhorter, J. E Arnold, H. H. Roberts, L. W. Myers and R. S. Cramer, Committee of Arrangements.

In 1 86 1 Elder Gaston of the Christian denomination and Dudley Willits debated in the courthouse at Aledo, the question of the Authenticity of the Bible. In January, r 86q, the Free Thinkers of New Boston Township celebrated the birthday of Thomas Paine. Walter J. Pepper was the principal speaker on this occasion, hi May, 1868, the Free Thinkers or Liberalists held a convention in Robert's Hall, New Boston, for the purpose of organizing a county society. Present were J. T. Rouse, Mrs. S. E. Warner and J. S. Loveland, all of whom addressed the convention. R. S. Cramer was corresponding secretary of the organization. The next year the Liberalists and Spiritualists united and held a convention in Scott's Hall, New Boston, on which occasion a strong lecture was delivered by E. V. Wilson. The organization had its maximum strength at this time.

In June, 1867, William Drury, Mrs. R. S. Scudder, Mrs. William P. Myers, Mrs. A. J. Hollowell, Tyler McWhorter, John Roberts, Samuel Hollowell and R. S. Cramer called a convention of the "Friends of Progress," to be held at New Boston on the 29th of that month. The call said, "All who believe in the Fatherhood of God and the Universal Brotherhood of Man; in the progress of intellectual, religious and politcal liberty, and are willing to labor that right and knowledge shall supersede might and ignorance, are cordially invited to meet with us and partake in the social greetings and intellectual discussions of the occasion."

The Presbyterian congregation at Keithsburg was not permanently organized until i8t;7 and at the start had twenty-eight members. Joseph P. Wycoff and Paul Sheriff were elected ruling elders and Dr. I. N. Anderson deacon. Harvey Senter, A. B. Sheriff and Paul Sheriff were first trustees; Rev. E. K. Lynn was first supply, and Rev. Samuel Hart first regular pastor. Before the regular organization, in 1857, Presbyterians in Keithsburg quite often attended the church in Ohio Grove Township. In 1866 the congregation bought a church organ and the next year a large bell was

During the '40s religious services were conducted in Keithsburg occasionally by visiting ministers of various denominations, among whom were Reverend Crittenden, Reverend Vail, of the Presbyterian faith and Reverend Gregg, a Universalist. Methodist ministers also visited this community and held services from time to time, the meetings being conducted wherever a room could be found to accommodate the people. The first Methodist services were held in the house of John W. Nevius in 1838 by Rev. Asa McMurtry. Other meetings were held in the house of B. L. Hardin. A Sunday school was held as early as 1844 in a cooper shop that stood on the corner of Main and Seventh streets, but it was not until August, 1849, tnat tne first regularly organized Sunday school was established here. In the spring of 1850 a second school was organized in the brick, schoolhouse and John Kile served as its first superintendent. At that time Mrs. Thomas Hiatt was the only person of the Methodist faith living in the Town of Keithsburg; but shortly afterward Col. George S. Pierce, also a Methodist settled here. In the country lived John Wilson, James Gibson, B. L. Hardin, John Kile and John Eckley, all Methodists, but it was not always possible for them to attend services in town, so that it became necessary to reorganize the school and W. L. Mathews was chosen superintendent. B. C. Cabeen taught the Bible class and other early teachers and active workers were Mrs. Mathews, Mrs. Freeman and Mrs. Hiatt. From this society finally developed the church organization, which was made a part of the New Boston circuit and meetings were held every two weeks in Keithsburg. In the fall of 1851 a church building was erected on the northwest corner of block 13, at a cost of nearly two thousand dollars. It was not finished and dedicated, however, until 1853, Reverend Chandler of Peoria, having charge of the dedicatory services. The first regular pastor was Rev. Pierce T. Rhodes, who was succeeded by Rev. C. M. Wright. In i860 Keithsburg charge was taken from New Boston circuit and made a separate charge. Other early pastors who served this organization were Revs. Job Mills, Steward, J. L. Phares, Stafford, G. W. Brown, J. Winser, S. Brink, A. R. Morgan, L. B. Dennis, J. Smith, Richard Haney, G. W. Martin, C. B. Couch and H. S. Humes.

During the pastoral charge of Rev. Stephen Brink, in 1871, a very successful revival was conducted which resulted in the addition of 100 members to the church. In the following year, 1872, steps were taken to replace the old house of worship with a more modern and imposing structure. This was dedicated by Bishop McCabe October 29th of that year, the entire cost of the building being $10,000. It was burned down in 1890 and soon afterward the present structure was erected at a cost of $7,000. The society now has a considerable membership, and a prosperous Sunday school with a good attendance.

A society of the United Brethren was established at Keithsburg in the winter of 1849-50, the original members being St. Clair Ross and wife, James Goldsberry and wife, Mr. Mapes and wife and a few others. A church building was commenced in 1857 anQl completed in 1 86 1. Among the early pastors were Reverends Condon, Smith, Wagner, Knowles, Keller, Weaver, Bear, Toll, Watts, Stanley, Speaks, St. Clair Ross, Bugley, Godfrey, Shesler, Davis, Wolf, Pease, Spurlock, Worman and others. At one time it was a strong organization with a large membership.

A society of the Christian denomination was organized in Keithsburg in 1856. Services had been held here for several years earlier by traveling ministers who finally organized the class. Rev. Mr. Davidson of Monmouth supplied the congregation for several years at the start. In 1866 their church was built and at this time the membership was quite large. Among the early pastors were Shortridge, Wallace, Warren, Fisk, Royal, Walker. Their present church was built in comparatively recent years. Their church was rededicated in March, 1909. Levi Ender donated the lot for the church. Services were first held in the courthouse and the schoolhouse.

The Catholics held services in Keithsburg back in the '40s and the families of that faith received occasional visits from priests from Monmouth and elsewhere. Rev. Father Lorimer began to hold regular services here in 1865 and was succeeded by Rev. R. P. O'Neill in 1867. In 1869 the church was built at a cost of about six thousand dollars. Rev. Father Bowles took charge of the parish in 1870. The parsonage was built in 1877-8 at a cost of $2,000. Other priests in charge at an early date were Fathers Halpin, O'Farrell, Weldon (who was the first to settle in the parish), O'Neill, McKenna, and Corley. In recent years the church has been prosperous, has increased in membership and has furnished the priests to organize other Catholic congregations in this and neighboring counties.

Occasional services were held in Millersburg by the Methodists, probablv as early as 1838-9 by ministers from Camden Mills, now Milan, Rock Island County. This town remained a part of the Camden Mills circuit until 1855 when it was set off as the Millers- burg circuit and at first included Aledo which was later set off as an independent circuit. They began to have regular preaching about 1850, but did not have an organization independent of the Camden Mills Church until 1857, after which date it was a part of the Peoria conference. Elder R. N. Morse officiated at the organization and J. W. Long was secretary. The first pastor was Rev. D. M. Falkinburg and the first class leaders were John Ashbaugh, Jacob Wharton and James Sheriff. Services were held in the schoolhouse until 1854 when the first church building was commenced, but was blown down before it was half completed. Later, work on it was resumed and the structure was completed in 1856 under the pastorate of Rev. Watson Bell. At this time the following official board was organized: Stewards, J. W. Lane, Ambrose Eddy, Joel Collins, Peter Blue, Joseph Richmond, E. C. Bartlett, W. P. Shafer; trustees, James Gibson, Jacob Wharton, Ambrose Eddv, Joseph Richmond and Philip E. Stevens; Sunday school superintendent, Samuel Wharton; class leader, ]. M. Gilmore. The old church was taken down and a new one was erected and dedicated in February, 1908. The Joy M. E. Church was built in 1876, but was destroyed by fire in December, 1909. It was promptly rebuilt and was dedicated in August, 1 9 10. The Pomeroy M. E. Church was erected in 1877. Both of these churches were built under the pastorate of Rev. J. J. Walter. The new parsonage at Jov was built in 1908. In recent years Jov has been made the head of the circuit. At present the Millersburg Church has a membership of seventy-five; Pomeroy, twenty-five; Joy, 200. The church organizations are stewards, trustees, Sunday school superintendent, class leader, Epworth League, Junior League, Ladies' Aid Society, W. F. M. Society and W. H. M. Society. The church has had a Sunday school since 1857.

The Presbyterians of Millersburg at first attended the meetings of that faith in the church on Pope's Creek, which had been founded and established in 1837 by Rev. John Montgomery. In fact a number of them became members of that society, but withdrew as soon as a society of that denomination was established in Millersburg in 1839. Regular services were held after this date in the courthouse, but there was no class formed here until about 1843-4. R-ev- John Montgomery held the services in the courthouse. In 1844, when the new and commodious schoolhouse was erected, regular services began to be held therein by the Presbyterians, and at this date the following persons were dismissed from the Pope Creek Church in order to organize a class at Millersburg: E. Gilmore, J. M. Gilmore, Henry Lee, Edward Brody, John Brody, J. T. McGinnis, J. G.

Gilmore, A. A. Sherer, Samuel Guffy, John Kiddoo, Graham Lee, David Morrow, H. W. Thornton, Betsey King, Margaret S. Gilmore, Ann J. Taylor, Martha Lee, Mary Marsh, Mary E. Murphy, Sarah E. Lloyd, Sarah Clark, Elizabeth A. Edgar. Elizabeth Davis, Mary M. Steele, Mary Sherer, Eliza Brody, Catherine Gilmore, Tabitha W. Bay, Mary A. McGinnis, Mary Guffy, Eliza Kiddoo, Elizabeth Morrow, E. F. Thornton, Rachel T. Willits and Hannah Reed. and enough more to form a class of forty-four members. Services were held in the schoolhouse until 1854, when a building was erected at a cost of $1,600. It had a seating capacity of 300 and remained in use for many years. Among the early ministers were Revs. John Montgomerv, Thomas Vail, L. V. Crittenden, A. Loomis, J. N. Jamison, William Dool, J. McBride, Joel Kennedy and W. B. Phelps. The first elders were Ephraim Gilmore, J. \V. Nevius, J. T. McGinnis, J. M. Gilmore and Henry Lee. At one time the society had a membership of 140, but dismissals to other congregations greatlv reduced it as time passed. Fortv-five members were dismissed to Peniel Church; eighteen to the Hamlet Church, and small bodies to others. A Sunday school was connected with this church as earlv as 1842, its organization taking place in the courthouse under the auspices of the American Sunday School Union.

The Methodist Episcopal Church at Joy was organized in 1874 by Reverend Head. Irregular services were held before that date in the schoolhouse and in the brick church two miles south of the town. The first members in [874 were J. W. Wood and wife, W. P. Zentmire and wife, Richard Edgar and wife, William Kiddoo and wife, Frank More and wife, K. H. Dav and wife, Eliza Kiddoo and Augusta Mays. The first church was built in 1877 at a cost of $1,800. Among the early pastors were Reverends Head, Walters, Morev, Frizall. The new church was dedicated in 1 899 ; it cost $10,877.71 and is one of the best in the county.

The Free Presbyterians had an early organization in the southern part of Millersburg Township, among the leading members being James, Richard, William and John Kiddoo. Rev. James S. Poage was the second pastor. Their first church, a brick structure, was erected in 1847 from brick burned by Richard Kiddoo. The first elder was James Kiddoo. The war having ended the object of their existence, the members finally united with the Methodist Church at Jov. The old church had a cemetery and a Sunday school. This old congregation under Reverend Poage was a power for great good in this communitv.

The first Seventh Day Adventist Church had its origin in the Marsh Schoolhouse a few miles southwest of Aledo and was organized May 14, 1 871, under the leadership of Elder R. F. Andrews, who conducted the organization services. The charter members were W. O. Dugan, A. J. Douglas, M. J. Douglas, Joseph Hughs, Elizabeth Hughs, J. C. Middaugh, Nancy Middaugh, Kinsey Cecil, Isaiah Halsted, Reuben Greer, Thomas Greer, Minerva Greer, Jane Rupert, Mary Stiles, Henrietta Mason, Fred Mason, Samuel Mason and J. W. Ditto. The elder was Rev. J. R. Whitham; deacon, Cary Dryden; clerk and treasurer, Mary Miller. The organization of the society was not perfected until 1875. At the first organization W. O. Dugan acted as leader and J. C. Middaugh as clerk. The church building was erected in 1884. The present (1914) membership is sixty-three. The society has no regular minister. The present elders are S. I. Greer and W. A. Marsh; deacon, Howard Hoxie; treasurer, Nelson V. Marsh; clerk, Ella G. Douglas; librarian, Ella F. Marsh.

The Presbyterian congregation, known as Peniel, consisted first of forty-five members who were dismissed from the Millersburg Church in 1871. Many of them lived about four miles south of Millersburg, but had continued to attend for many years the church at that town. Previous to 1871 they had preaching for several years in Pleasant Hill Schoolhouse two miles east of Joy and sometimes attended services in the brick church a mile south of Joy. In 1871 they organized at this brick church and at the start began to raise funds with which to build a church which they completed in 1872 at a cost of $4,500. It was a frame structure and had a seating capacity of about three hundred. J. Downing donated the ground for the church and cemetery and Edwin Gilmore donated the ground for the parsonage, which was erected at a cost of $1,600. The first elders were William Miller, J. T. McGinnis, John Love and J. Downing. At one time the society had 125 members. This church is served bv the Millersburg pastors. The new church building was dedicated in November, 1901. Rev. R. E. Fleming of Chicago preached the dedication sermon.

The new Presbyterian Church at Joy was dedicated in December, iqo6. Present were Revs. W. G. Craig of McCormick Seminary, Chicago; Howard, Fulton, Crofts and Thornton. The cost was about seven thousand seven hundred dollars. The society was in a very prosperous condition.

time they built a small house at a cost of about six hundred dollars. Among the first members were the following: W. S. Morrison, James Vernon, Eliza Vernon, Viola Vernon, Joseph Harris, J. M. Terry, Mary Terry, Hannah Terry, Margaret Brown, William Cardman, Sarah Cardman, Elizabeth Webb; Jasper, Mary, Mary E., Clara, Juliet, Adelaide and Edward Duncan; Elizabeth, Emma, Stephen, Theresa, James and Nancy Miller. Among the early ministers were Revs. J. M. Terry, J. W. Terry, E. Bryant, J. B. Harris, J. L. Terry.

Services by other faiths have been held from time to time in Millersburg, among which were the Predestinarian Baptists, Missionary Baptists, etc.

Palestine Church of the United Brethren denomination was built in 1866 at a cost of $2,000 and was dedicated on August 12th of that year. by the Rev. U. S. Chittenden. The membership was small at the start, but established a Sunday school and maintained preaching every alternate Sabbath. Among the pastors were Elisha Godfrey, Benjamin Wagoner, O. F. Smith, John Wagoner, A. G. Smith, O. O. Smith, A. Norman, Adam Wolff and others.

Religious services were held in the cabin of George McPherren in Ohio Grove in the '30s and were conducted by Rev. John Wallace, an Associate Reformed Presbvterian, although the McPherrens were Methodists. In 1837 Rev. John Montgomery, a missionary of the Old School Presbyterian Church, also held services in McPherren's residence; also later in the homes of William T. Nevius and Thomas Candor. The congregation in 1837 numbered about twenty persons, among whom were the McPherrens, Ashford Hardy and family, George Smith and family, Richard Rice and family, William Moore and family, and the Cabeens, Candors, Neviuses and McBrides.

An Associate Reformed Presbyterian Society was organized in Ohio Grove Township in 1842 with the following members: Eleanor Moorhead, Phebe Smith, Jane Rice, Sophia Hardy, William Moore, William McMichael, Ella McMichael, Josiah Moor, Samuel Moor, George Jav, Agnes Jav and others. Services were held in barns, houses, groves and schoolhouses at first. Rev. J. C. Porter was an early pastor; others were Reverends Cochran, Fulton, Morrow and Finley. The congregation was reorganized in 1852, at which time the membership was forty-five. This has been one of the strong and permanent churches of the countv ever since. In 1 853-5 a church 40 by 60 feet was erected at Sunbeam largely through the exertions of William M. Hays. During the '6os the membership at one time was 163.

Services by the Methodists were held at the house of James McBride by Reverend Burr in the '30s in Ohio Grove. The first schoolhouse was used later. A great revival was held in McPherren's barn in 1844, people coming from a distance of thirty miles and camping out. The McPherrens, McBrides, Browns, Moorheads, Williames and others were members at this time. Horace Williams was class leader. George McPherren advanced the money to build the church, which was put up about i860; it cost $1400. It was dedicated by Elder Frank Smith. William Hanly and Elder Culles were early preachers. Soon after the dedication sixty members were secured at a great revival.

In 1848 there was a union of the Associate Reformed and Seceders churches, which afterward took the name of the United Presbyterian Church. The charter members were: George Jay, Agnes Jay, Jane Rice, Eleanor Moorhead, Phebe Smith, Sophia Hardy, William Moore, John Collins, Eleanor Collins, Ann Collins. Of this number John Collins and William Moore were elected elders. For several years the congregation held only an occasional service.

In 1852 the congregation was reorganized and two additional elders, R. M. Miller and William Hays, were elected. Rev. J. C. Porter, pastor at Cedar Creek, gave a portion of his time to this congregation. In 1853 Rev. Matthew Bigger came as supply and in April, 1854, he was installed as the first regular pastor. Other churches included in the charge were Pope Creek, Twin Grove and Millersburg.

On April 30, 1854, a meeting was held and steps were taken to erect a house of worship, ground for the same having been donated by Mr. and Mrs. William I. Nevius. The church was not completed, however, until the fall of 1851;. During the course of its construction the congregation worshipped in the Presbyterian Church located at Candor Cemetery, which is still standing. During the spring and summer of 1855 services were held in the uncompleted building. The pews had not yet been installed and temporary seats were made of cast off slabs, secured from a sawmill run by John H. McBride's father, the mill being located on Pope Creek.

In the year 1904 a new and commodious church building replaced the old structure, and was dedicated on the 6th of November of that year. The dedicatory sermon was preached by Dr. Thomas H. McMichael, president of Monmouth College. The church is a frame structure, built in attractive style of architecture, heated with hot air furnace and lighted by acetylene gas.

The pastors who have served this congregation are: Revs. Matthew Bigger, 1854-60; J. H. Nash, 1861-76; D. F. Mustard, 1877-84; H. P. Ferguson. 1890-94. In the latter year he met death by being struck by lightning. The church was afterward supplied for two and a half years by J. W. Johnson. In 1898 H. B. Tyler came and remained with the congregation until 1900, his successor being H. B. Speer, who was installed as pastor in 1901.

The Methodist Church at Eliza and the Epworth Chapel at Mannon have a combined membership of 170 at the present time - 1914. The old Methodist Church near Johnson Noble's residence was vacated many years ago and the house was sold and the members joined Epworth Chapel. It was called Noble Chapel and was used part of the time bv the Methodists before the church at Eliza was erected, but not afterward. At the present time the church at Mannon has by far the larger membership. Noble Chapel stands just across the road opposite Eliza Creek Cemetery and was built to accommodate people at funerals.

Religious meetings were held in Eliza Township as early as 1836 in the house of D. F. Noble and later in the residence of David Shaunce and elsewhere. In the '40s a log cabin church was built on the bluff and there the various early religious bodies met - Methodists, Baptists and Christians. Asa McMurtry and Samuel Pinkley were two ministers who visited this township early. An early camp meeting ground was soon established near the Bluff Log Church and here the whole neighborhood early assembled to worship regardless, quite often, of creeds or denominations. A Baptist class was organized here in the spring of 1866 and at first had sixty-three members.

The Antioch Baptist Church began as an organization, May 22, 1866, with sixty-three members in Duncan. Its first pastor was Rev. J. P. R. Young. The church prospered and continued to render a splendid service in this community. This church is located four miles north of Millersburg and is at the present time an active, helpful organization with ninety-five members. It owes its existence to George Miller who lived at Sugar Grove. At first meetings were held at his house and later at Lunn's schoolhouse. It was called the Sugar Grove Church. Among the first members were John Young, James Young, L. H. Castor, B. F. Miller and Frederick Voekel. Preaching continued at the schoolhouse until 1870 when the church structure was erected at a cost of $2,300. Early ministers were H. D. Kline, John Young and Alexander Sutton. Fifty-three new members were secured by a revival conducted by J. P. R. Young near the close of the Civil war. Among the early members were Lewis Landreth and wife, John Downing and wife, Milton Elliott and wife, James Elliott and wife, E. W. Miller and wife, B. F. Miller and wife, John McLaughlin and wife and T. C. Lewis and wife.

A small band of Methodists living east of Hamlet held meetings in private houses and later schoolhouses until 1869 when thev built a church house two miles east of Hamlet at a cost of $2,100. At first the society had thirty-six members. The organization of the Methodist Society at Reynolds took many members away and the society ran down greatly in membership. Among its members have been Thomas Vannatta, George Hauck, H. Ketzel, Albion Nichols, S. Honeycut and Mr. Holiday. One of the early pastors was Rev. J. Small". .

The Enon Baptist Church is located in Perryton Township and was organized in 1869 with a constituent membership of thirty-four, who were dismissed from the Aledo Church for this purpose, the Aledo Church concurring heartily. Rev. William Whitehead was first pastor, with A. Patterson and M. Debordas, deacons and William R. Burroughs, church clerk. There is now a new life rising in the community which in the future will make a strong church. They maintain a Bible school and have preaching every Sabbath afternoon by Rev. J. M. Jones, missionary pastor of the Illinois Baptist State Convention. Their church was built in 1869; Rev. John Titterington was first pastor. The building stood two and a half miles east of Hamlet and in 1879 was moved to Reynolds.

The first religious services held at Sugar Grove were conducted by the Old School or Hard Shell Baptists and soon afterward the Edwards River Church was constituted in that neighborhood as a member of Spoon River Association. Joseph Jones was pastor and Abraham Miller, Jr., deacon. They had no building and therefore held services in the residences of the members and later in schoolhouses.

At a later date the Methodists formed a class at the house of John Miller in Sugar Grove and finally established a campground which became famous for miles around and for many years. At times all the famous Methodist ministers of the West were heard at this camp meeting ground.

The Presbyterian Church at Hamlet was organized in 1870 with a membership of thirty-two. The organizers were W. S. Dool, Thomas M. Wilson and T. R. Johnson. Services had previously been held in the schoolhouse one mile to the westward. Thirteen of the original members were dismissed from the class at Millersburg. Present at the organization were F. A. Sherer, moderator; William S. Dool, Daniel Kelly, W. W. Morehead, C. B. Bristol and T. R. Johnson. Later in the '70s a frame church was built and was used many years. This society is one of the prosperous ones of the present day.

In 1 87 1 the Perryton Presbyterian Church Society was organized in the township south of Camp Creek. It was an offshoot of the society at Hamlet. At the first meeting William Doak, Cruser Gray and J. Harris were appointed a committee to take steps to build a church. The building was located at Gingles' Corners, was a frame structure, cost about two thousand one hundred dollars and was dedicated in 1872. There were thirty members at the start. Among the first members were Frank McHard, Mrs. Jane M. McHard, Martha Blue, Sarah Doak, Mary Guffy, J. Harris, Mary J. Harris, William McHard, Sr., Mary A. Bristow.

The first Methodist Episcopal Society at Preemption was formed in the log cabin of Benjamin Clarke in 1841. Mr. Clarke was class leader. Other members were his wife, David Little and wife and Andrew and Margaret Gilmore. They were first served by the itinerant preachers of that early period. Preaching was held in this log cabin until 1846 when the services were transferred to a schoolhouse. Here services were held until 1867 when a church building was erected and Rev. Amos Morev became stated pastor. At this time David Little, John Clarke, G. T. Morey. A. N. Hickok and D. A. Clarke were trustees. The parsonage was built in 1901 in Preemption and cost $2,500. The new church was erected in 1906 at a cost of $11,000. Later heating and lighting plants have been added at a cost of about fifteen hundred dollars. The present membership is 120. The Sunday school has an organization of 125; Epworth League, 51; Ladies' Aid Society; Woman's Foreign Missionary Society, and a Junior League of thirty members.

A Protestant Episcopal Church was organized in Preemption Township in 1868-9 by Rev. J. S. Chamberlain. The church building was erected on ground donated by Robert Foster on section 4. The first trustees were James Johnston, William Johnston, Thomas Armstrong and Thomas Doonan. Rev. W. T. Currie became pastor in 1872. A parish was organized in October, 1874, and was called St. John's Parish. Rev. T. M. Thorp succeeded Reverend Currie.

The Methodist Episcopal Church of Matherville was organized in the fall of 191 1 with an enrollment of ten members. A Sunday school and a preaching service were maintained in the public school building and a shanty until July 28, 191 2, when a good substantial church building was completed at a cost of $4,500 and dedicated under the pastorate of Rev. F. J. Giddings. The trustees were Thomas Jackson, Henry Barr, Herman Zude, Charles Turner and Mrs. Henry Barr. The society membership is now fifty, and the Sunday school membership, 150. There is an aid society. A parsonage has not yet been built.

St. Joseph's Catholic Church of Preemption Township came into existence gradually. The Conways, O'Days, Bremens, and others of that faith in the southern part were visited for many years by priests from Rock Island, Keithsburg and elsewhere and services were held in the cabins of the settlers. In 1875 a subscription for a church building was circulated and signed liberally by the Macks, Conways, Dooleys, Lucuses, McMannies, and others. The church was erected that year and was dedicated in September by Rev. J. P. Rowles. The church has steadily grown and now has a large membership.

The Methodist Episcopal Church, Viola, was organized about the year 1855. For several years services were held in the schoolhouse. In 1869 steps were taken toward the erection of a house of worship, during the pastoral charge of Rev. P. S. Garretson, but the church was not completed and dedicated until May 12, 1872, by Rev. M. Spurlock.

Viola became the head of the charge in 1892, at which time the parsonage was purchased. An addition was built to this in 1895. At the annual conference held in 1902, Viola was made a separate charge from New Windsor. In the summer of 1904 a new house of worship was erected, the same being dedicated August 14th ofthat year. The dedicatory sermon was preached by Rev. Matt S. Hughes, D. D., pastor of the Independence Avenue Methodist Cburch at Kansas City, Missouri. Other ministers who participated in the service were M. B. V. White, of New Boston; W. W. Carlton, Mason City, Iowa; J. Wellington Frizzelle, presiding elder; G. D. Hensel, of Preemption, and the pastor of the church, Rev. S. P. Archer. The church now has a membership of some two hundred, while the enrollment in the Sunday school is about two hundred and twenty-five.

The United Presbyterian Church at Viola was organized in 1855 by Rev. Mathew Bigger and at first was called the Twin Grove congregation. The first trustees were John Mitchell, W. P. Collins, S. E. Russell, J. B. Mitchell. The membership was twenty-eight. The first regular pastor was Rev. D. C. Cochran, in 1857. A.t one time the membership was 130; in 1882 it was 1 10. A Sabbath school was organized at an early date. The church building was erected in 1857 ar|d was improved in 1876.

The Congregational Society was organized in 1857 by Rev. C. H. Eaton and the building was erected the same year. The first pastor was Mr. Eaton and the first trustees B. C. Perkins, Joseph Schofield, George Bolton, Thomas Merriman and John A. Hoffman. The society ran down in 1865-6 and became almost extinct.

The Presbyterian Society at Viola was organized April 22, 1872, in the former Congregational Church building. Many of the members of the old Congregational Church and of the Edwards River congregation joined the new church. The first pastor was Rev. E. Robb and the first elders were Russell Park and Hopkins Boone. They built a church in 1878 at a cost of $2,700.

In 1854 Bethel Free Presbyterian Church was organized about four miles west of Viola and at first had a membership of about twenty. The first pastor was Rev. J. R. Whittim, and the first trustees were John Carnahan, W. M. Carnahan and James McClure. Since the war it has been known as the Wesleyan Methodist Church.

The Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Church was organized in 1858 in Richland Grove with a membership of about fifty. Rev. Jonas Swanson had charge of the congregation. The next year a church was built. In time this society became the largest in the county, having over five hundred communicants.

A Swedish Methodist Episcopal Society was organized in 1856 and at first there was a small membership, but later the membership was large and the congregation prosperous. Their church was built in i860.

In 1 871-2 an American Society of United Brethren was organized by Rev. Abner Norman. At first the membership was about thirty; a church was erected in 1873.

In 1914 there were in Sherrard, also, a United Brethren Church, a Swedish Lutheran Church, a Swedish Free Mission and a Free Methodist Church. All were new, active and prosperous, with large memberships. Several new church buildings have gone up there recently.

The Methodist Episcopal Church at Swedona was organized by Rev. Asa McMurtry in 1837, and among the first members were Chauncey Stanard, Mrs. Stanard, William and Mrs. Lewis, Lucius Dimmock, Alvin and Mrs. Arrasmith, Thomas and Mrs. Chires, Thomas Chires, Jr., Ann and Sarah Chires, Mary Love, Stephen and Mrs. Smith, Thomas and Mrs. Brittingham, Mrs. William Smith, John Rhodenbaugh, Irvin and Mrs. Stone, four of the Stower family, Mr. Consider, Mrs. Barney, Sr., Joseph Crawford and a few others. The first services were held in residences and later in schoolhouses and finally in the church, which was built in 1848. This society continued in active service for many years, but does not exist at present.

Religious services were held in Rivoli Township at the cabin of James Bridger early in the forties by Rev. Samuel T. Burr of the Methodist Episcopal Church. About the same time the Hard Shell Baptists, represented by Elder Joseph Jones, held occasional services at the cabins of the settlers. No doubt other denominations were represented here at an early date.

The first religious class formed was that of the Wesleyan Methodists at Hopewell in the spring of 1848, probably by Rev. C. H. Drake. It was first a part of the Farmington circuit and later of the Abingdon circuit. Still later the Oxford circuit included this society. Among the early pastors were C. H. Drake, B. F. Haskins, R. F. Markham, and J. M. Snyder. In 1 86t; the society was placed in the Hopewell circuit. Among the early members were Govert S. Fleharty, Margaret Fleharty, James Durston, Philadelphia Durston, Nelson and Rebecca Chidester, Anna Smith, Martha K. Bridger, W. D. Flehartv, Nancy Goodman, Mary T. Underwood, Harriet Woodhams, Martha Shaw, Maria Smith, Laird and Melinda Bean, Walter Goodrich, John Greenman, Catherine Braught, Erastus and Eliza Smith, Margaret J. Fleharty and Margaret E. Roberts. In 1870 their church near Hopewell was erected at a cost of $2,700; it was dedicated in September, 1871.

The United Brethren formed an organization at Oak Ridge in 1856 under the leadership of Rev. George Weaver. They met in the schoolhouse. Among the members were James Meadows, Henry Birdwell, John and Jane Meadows, John and Mary Shroyer, Asa

A class of the Zion Methodists was formed in [858. It was small, but they built a church on section 29, in 1870. Christian Harshbarger was first class leader; he continued to serve as such until 1879 when he was succeeded by J. A. Garret.

In 1865 the Church of Christ of Oak. Ridge was organized, among the first members being James and Martha Marford, Rebecca Shover, Thomas and Matilda Hill, Louisa Braught, Edna Watson, Mary J. Bunyan, Martha J. Thompson, James and Mary A. Meadows, Mary A. Miller, Levi and Margaret J. Spencer and Mary Roosa. Thomas Hill was the first deacon, and James Meadows and James Marford the first elders. In 1873 this society went to New Windsor and was there reorganized by Rev. T. J. Burton. Soon afterward the society passed out of existence.

The First Congregational Church of New Windsor was organized October 11, 1870, and among the first members were W. W. Allen, Sarah A. Allen, W. D. Fleharty, Mary C. Fleharty, Alice Barnes, Mary A. Mayo, Florence C. Barnes, Delia A. Hammond, and Charlotte Goold. Among the ministers who assisted at the time of organization were L. F. Waldo, W. J. Beecher, R. B. Guild, B. F. Haskins and A. R. Mitchell. W. W. Allen was first deacon and W. D. Fleharty, first treasurer. Rev. Cyrus H. Eaton was first pastor. In 1872 they built their church at a cost of ^2,381. The societv has been prosperous ever since, after many changes.

The United Presbyterian Church at New Windsor was organized in Henry County in August, 1866, and among the first members were Joseph M. and Nancy H. Christy, Thomas R., Catherine and Elizabeth McMiller, Margaret A. Hogue, Elizabeth McLaughlin, Thomas H. and Sarah Brown, William H. and Margaret Kerr, Sarah Surpluss, Nancy Epperson, Thomas and Eliza M. Ramsey, John M. and Sarah A. Christv and Stephen and Isabella Woodburn, Their church was built in 1867. Soon afterward it passed out of existence.

The Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Church at New Windsor was organized May 24, 1869. Rev. Gustav Andreen was chairman of the meeting and J. A. Falk, secretary. Previous to this date and before the town was laid out services were held in the residence of Mr. Falk between Christmas and New Years. Rev. S. P. A. Lindahl made occasional visits after the societv was organized. There were about thirty members at the start. The first deacons were Carl N. Johnson, C. Bjorkengren, Carl A. Falk and Carl Falk. The trustees were Carl A. Johnson, Piter Falk and John M. Blad. At the time of organization a subscription list was started to raise funds for a church building. All helped, the money was raised, the church was built and was dedicated on New Years day, 1869-70, although at that time the building was not quite finished. The cost was about forty-eight hundred dollars. A little later the Gregg house was bought and converted into a parsonage. In 1869 a parochial school was started with seventy-eight pupils; it has been maintained nearly all the time since. In 1905 a new parsonage was built at a cost of about three thousand dollars, largely through the efforts of the Ladies' Aid Society. The church has a cemetery of its own. The church society is now large and prosperous.

The Congregational Church Society was formed June 29, 1895, and was duly incorporated on July 4th. It was formally recognized bv Congregational ministers on September 3d, of the same year. Work on their first church building was commenced in the spring of 1896, and the structure was almost completed when it was prostrated by a severe storm on May 16th. It was rebuilt the following fall and was dedicated in the spring of 1897 by Rev. David E. Evans who was pastor at the date of organization. The officers were as follows: Deacons, Matthew Williams, Matthew Stanley and Henry Hughes; trustees, W. H. Williams, G. M. Jones, Seth Crossland, M. Pritchard and Dan Thomas; clerk, Seth Crasstard; treasurer, G. M. Jones. The members were Matthew Williams, Mrs. Matthew Williams, Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Stanley, Jane A. Stanley, Seth Crossland, W. H. Williams, Ruth Brown, Mrs. Dan Thomas, Mr. and Mrs. G. M. Jones, Mrs. Pritchard, John L. Haddick, Albert Pasco, Cordelia Pasco, Shed Roberts, Mrs. Celia Spargo, David T. Jones, Elizabeth Jones, Hiram Jones, R. R. Lloyd, John Hughes, M. M. Stringer, Jessie Hughes, Mrs. Hughes, Deborah Hughes, Matilda Hughes. At present the church has sixty members.

In 1913 Windsor was put on the same circuit as Alpha, the parsonage being at the latter place. The present membership is about fifty. Among the present officers are Mrs. A. C. Anderson, Edgar Pearson, Glen Anderson and Mrs. Minerva Rathbun.

The first Methodist Society at New Windsor was organized in 1868 by Rev. Peter S. Garretson. The first members were John Coleman, Elizabeth Coleman, Lovina Coleman, Samuel Coleman, Rev. John Abbott, Alice Abbott, W. A. Buckley and Mary Buckley. Rev. W. B. Crithers was first pastor. In 1869 a building that had been built for a school was purchased and converted into a church. Rev. T. Hoagland took charge of the class in 1870.

In March, 1853, tne first steps to organize the Presbyterian Church in Suez Township were taken at a meeting held in the schoolhouse on section 29. At this meeting R. C. Mathews was chairman and J. D. Porter, secretary. A postponement was taken to the spring of 1854 when a church building was commenced and completed in the spring of 1855 at a cost of $2,100. The building committee were F. Postlewaite, S. R. Boggs and Thomas Likely. The society was duly organized in the spring of 1855. Forty names were enrolled. J. R. Boggs, R. W. Porter and S. R. Boggs were chosen elders and Thomas Likely, M. T. Postlewaite and T. S. Robb, trustees. In June, 1856, Rev. J. H. Nevius became the first pastor; he was succeeded by George Norcross in 1863. The pastors later were Revs. J. H. Moore, E. B. Miner and I. T. Whitmore. In 1880 the name of the church was changed from North Henderson to Norwood. In 1882 the membership was 206. The new church was dedicated in February, 1903. R. E. Fleming was pastor. The society is prosperous.

In 1842 Rev. James G. Bruce organized the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church at the house of S. L. Brownlee, about one mile west of Norwood. The first members were James, Elizabeth and Nancy Imbrie, Robert and Mary Caldwell, John Humphreys and wife, S. L. and Sarah Brownlee, William and Mary J. Caldwell, John W. and Sarah A. Caldwell and Samuel and Margaret Graham. The first elders were James Imbrie and Robert Caldwell. Rev. R. W. French became pastor in 1844; he was a young man and was ordained at this time by James and William Bruce. In 1846 their church was erected southwest of Norwood. This congregation was called North Henderson; about 1847 it was united with the South Creek and Bethel congregations and Rev. Nathaniel McDowel was chosen pastor. In 1866 Rev. J. A. Edie took charge of the congregation.

On May 12, 1856, Rev. M. M. Bigger organized the Associate Reformed Presbvterian Church of North Henderson with an initial membership of twenty-one. The meeting was held at Spring Grove and at once the Spring Grove congregation and the newly formed North Henderson congregation extended a joint call for Rev. J. C. McKnight. On June 14, 1858, the Associate and the Associate Reformed congregations united and became known as the United Presbyterian Church. In 1859 their large church building west of Norwood was built at a cost of about five thousand dollars. Rev. J. A. Edie was pastor during the Civil war and the church as a whole did much to encourage enlistments. Mr. Edie served the congrega- tion from 1858 to 1869, during which time 338 persons were added to the membership. He was succeeded by Rev. J. M. French. In 1876 Rev. J. T. McCrory took charge of the congregation. Rev. J. A. Spalding became pastor in 1881. From the start a Sunday school has been conducted. David Molar donated the land where the church stands. Thomas Likely donated the land a mile to the southward for the parsonage.

A United Brethren Church was organized in Suez Township in December, 1873, by Rev. P. R. Adams. Their church building was erected in 1875 on section 10. The first trustees were H. R. Peters, George W. Sedwick and John McLaughlin. Rev. N. A. Walker dedicated the building.

In 1875 the Methodists erected a church house two miles west of Suez postoffice on section 8. The congregation was small and at first had no regular pastor.

The Suez Universalist Church was established about the year 1850. At that time William McGreenwood, Harrison Brown, Benjamin Brown, John Greenwood, Notley Scott and Jesse Scott and their wives and the younger members of their families, desiring to have Universalist preaching in Suez and North Henderson townships, formed an associatidn and with the help of the Bartletts and others of Rio Township, Knox County asked Lombard College to supply them with a regular minister at least once a month, the meetings to be held at the White Lily and Mann schoolhouses. John Greenwood, who owned a fine natural grove, trimmed it up, placed seats and a platform therein and there summer meetings were held usually in the mornings and afternoons with a basket dinner. Large numbers of people, in fact the whole neighborhood, attended and much good to the morals of the community resulted. Rev. William Westfall and Rev. John Hughs were the first ministers and the latter, though a very old man, is still living at Table Grove, Illinois.

In 1855 a parish was organized with thirty-five members and this society conducted two services every two weeks and an active Sunday school was established with regular services.

In 1874 the United Brethren members built a church at Suez and the following year they sold a one-half interest in the structure to the Universalist organization of which John Greenwood was made president and James W. Page, clerk.

In 1884, under the pastorate of Rev. George Crum, now of Stockton, Illinois, a new organization was effected with a moderator, board of trustees, secretary and treasurer. Dan W. Sedwick was elected moderator and has held the office ever since - a period of thirty years. Under this organization James W. Page was elected secretary; Thomas G. Brown, treasurer; Lorimer Johnston, John Greenwood and Harrison Brown trustees. Later, upon the death of Mr. Page, Thomas J. Greenwood was chosen secretary.

In 1896 under the pastorate of Rev. J. B. Fisher, now state superintendent of the Universalist churches of Kentucky, a new church was organized within the parish and the following officers were chosen: Moderator, Dan W. Sedwick; secretary, Edwin E. Sedwick; treasurer, Thomas G. Brown; trustees, John Greenwood, Scott Palmer and W. T. Palmer.

About this time the Meekers became interested and although they lived at a considerable distance became regular attendants and many of them became members. New members were taken in from time to time as the years passed, so that the membership of the church remained about the same. The last member received was William D. Cameron. During Reverend Fisher's pastorate more members were taken in than at any other period, among them being Mrs. William Meeker, Miss Fannie Sedwick, Edwin E. Sedwick and family, Grant Palmer and family and many others. Among prominent ministers of the faith who occupied the pulpit regularly at stated periods were Rev. E. L. Conger, brother of Hon. Edward Conger, formerly minister to China; Rev. Charles E. Garst, afterward minister to Scotland; Doctor Nash, Doctor Fisher, Doctor White, president of Lombard College; Rev. J. W. Grinner, Rev. George Longbrake, Rev. W. O. Bodell, Rev. George Cramer, Rev. Olaf

Holmes, now pastor at LeRoy, Illinois. During the entire period of its existence the church has been practically free from debt. When the half interest in the building was purchased a debt of $100 was incurred, but was paid at the end of a year. The many who have worshipped within its walls have possessed the blessed faith of brotherly love and universal salvation which are the foundation stones of this church.

The Presbyterians at Burgess organized a class in 191 2, and built a fine church the next year at a cost of $5,000. Other religious societies have sprung up there within a vear or two.

The Henderson Predestinarian Baptist Church was constituted August 14, 1830, on Spoon River, and a branch was established in North Henderson Township early in the '40s. A Methodist class was established here about 1840 by Rev. Asa McMurtry. The Bruners, Holmes, Vestals and Woods were early members. The United Brethren Society was organized in 1869 and the same year they built a church in Section 36, which is called Maple Grove Church. A small class of Methodists was formed in the Mann schoolhouse. The Methodist church building was built at Mount Vernon south of North Henderson at an early day, but was finally moved into the village.