St. Clair County, Illinois - Chapter 15: Ecclesiastical History, 1881 (part 2 of 3)

The Eichland Baptist Church

The Richland Baptist Church, situated one and a half miles southeast of Smithton, was constituted by Rev. Henry Ross and Nathan Arnott, at the house of George W. Carr, April 23, 1842. The constituent members were William Sanders, Marinda Smith, Sarah Holroid, Sarah Tiner and Hannah Arnott. The first church meeting was held at the house of Abner Carr, May 7, 1842. Rev. N. Arnott was clerk, pro tem., at this meeting, and was chosen pastor of this church July 9, 1842. Nathaniel Smith was appointed clerk of the church at the same meeting, and served in that capacity until his resignation, Jan. 14, 1854.

John Woods, Jr., was ordained deacon of the church October 8, 1842. On the 12th of November, 1842, Runion Zuick, Conrad G. Carr and Nathaniel Smith were appointed a building committee to superintend the building of the Richland church-house ; and June 10, 1843, William Rettinghouse, John Woods and John Rettinghouse were appointed Trustees. In encouragement of this enterprise, Nathaniel Smith deeded a tract of land containing three acres to the church Trustees for the use of the church.

Rev. Nathan Arnott was elected a second time as pastor July 8, 1843, and again July 13, 1844. On August 10, 1844, John Woods was released from the office of deacon. On March 8, 1845, the first mooting occurred in the new meeting-house ; previously to this the meetings were held at private houses. June 14, 1845, John Woods asked to be released from the office of trustee, and Jefferson Wilderman was appointed in his place. Rev. Nathan Arnott was chosen pastor for the fourth time, July 12, 1845. On April 11, 1846, George W. Carr was ordained deacon of the church. Rev. D. L. Phillips was chosen pastor of the church August 8, 1 846, and served until February 9, 1850, when he resigned. Joel Robertson was considered one of the deacons in 1847, June 12, as he was deacon of the church to which he formerly belonged.

Rev. Nathan Arnott served as pastor from February 9, 1850 to April 12, 1851, when Rev. Samuel Roach followed with a term of pastoral service, who was followed by Rev. H. S. Deppe, who was chosen pastor July 11, 1852. Rev. D. M. Howell was called to the pastorate August 13, 1853; and Rev. Nathan Arnott was again chosen December 10, 1853. G W. Carr was chosen church clerk January 14. 1854, and John W. Wright, April 8, 1854, followed by Harmon Holcomb, September 9, 1854.

Rev. G. F. Stilwell was chosen as pastor December 9, 1854 ; and Rev. H. S. Deppe was elected a second time to the pastorate May 10, 1856. After April 11, 1857, until August 12, 1871, the church held no meetings. At the latter date Timothy O. Holcomb and Nathan S. Robertson were appointed church Trustees, Rev. J. M. Cochran acting as Moderator, and A. O. Miller as clerk. January 6, 1874, the members of Richland and High Prairie churches met, and by agreement, were united as one church, to be known as the " Old Richland Church." Rev. M. J. Badgley acted as Moderator at this meeting. John McCulley, who was deacon of the High Prairie church, after the churches united, continued as a deacon in this church until his death, January 15, 1875. A. O. Miller served as clerk until March 14, 1874, when he resigned. Rev. Thomas Deck was chosen as pastor January 14, 1874 ; and on March 14, 1874, N. S. Robertson was appointed clerk. Rev. Daniel Shipraan was called to the pastorate March 4, 1876 ; and B. C. Retting' house and N. S. Robertson were chosen deacons of the church Au. gust 27, 1876- In 1877, May 12, Rev. Daniel Shipman was elected pastor for the second time, and resigned the charge September 8, 1877. Rev. Tolbert Smirls was chosen October 13, 1877, and served until October 11, 1879. In 1879, October 11, Rev. Daniel Shipman was again chosen to the pastorate, and is now serving the church.

The Superintendents of the Sabbath-school, at Richland, were Nathaniel Smith, Ellas Miller, John Rettinghouse and George Woods. For the past year or more there has been no Sabbathschool. The church house is a brick building 30x40 feet, which is now much damaged by yielding of the foundation, and is of but little value.

The Lebanon Baptist Church

In and preceding 1856, the Baptists of Lebanon realized the necessity of establishing a church there, and at a little later period they built a good house of worship in that city. The membership is not numerous, and at times they are without pastoral services, while at other times meetings are held regularly, and the church and Sabbath-school interests prosper. Preston Peach is church clerk at this time. The church house is a good building, of capacity of some three hundred or more sittings.

Among the ministers who labored in building up this church was Rev. J. H. High, the celebrated blind preacher, who, at a period from 1856 to some years later, labored with the Baptist churches in this section of Illinois. He was a man of profound reading, ac-

The New Silver Creek Baptist Church

Was organized at Grifiin's School House, on Silver creek, St. Clair county, March 5, 1872, and comprised nineteen members. Previous to that time, G. W. Darrow, of Oak Hill community, near O'Fallon, an able and devoted worker in the Baptist church and Sunday-school interests of St. Clair county, organized a Sundayschool at that place ; and some time later, he and Rev. H. S. Deppe conducted a meeting there which resulted in quite a number of conversions, and the organization of the church followed. Rev. H. S. Deppe served as pastor at one time. Rev. W. A. Manville and Rev. Mr. Roach also served it as pastors. The church prospered for awhile, but has now declined, until but four members remain in the neighborhood.

The New Hope Baptist Church

Located nine miles south-west of Belleville, in St. Clair county, was constituted at a private dwelling in thecommunity, in 1854, by Rev. R. C. Keele, who was assisted by other ministers. Rev. R. C. Keele was its first pastor, and several other ministers served it in that relation afterwards- The church prospered for some time, and the membership built a house of worship.

Among the membership were Judge James Primm and family, the Ballard family, William Peach and wife, and others, who were good workers in the cause* of religion. Judge Primm now lives near Pinckneyville, Perry county ; William Peach and family removed and located near O'Fallon ; and by reason of removals, and other causes, the church has now declined.

Rev. R C. Keele, who assisted to constitute this church, and who for some time was its pastor, is an able minister and a successful evangelist : he has, by his missionary work and able gospel sermons, largely aided the Baptist cause in this county and throughout this section of Illinois. He now resides at Salem, Marion county, Illinois.

The First Baptist Church Of Belleville

The First Baptist Church of Belleville, 111., was organized Sept. 17th, 1831, by Rev. James Pulliam and others. He preached for them till 1834.

The first reference to the Sabbath-school is found in the minutes Dec. 1839 ; and the fact is stated that a Superintendent was appointed by the church at that time. Note this fact. It is the true position for the church to take in regard to the Sunday-school.

Rev. J. M. Peck was elected Pastor at this time, and served the church two years. He was a great and good man. This county was his home and the scene of his labors many years before he went on high.

The following minute was made April 20th, 1844: "Be it ordered that Elder James Pulliam be appointed to attend to the poor members of the church."

This resolution embodies a scriptural principle which is essential to a Gospel church and very salutary when carried out in the spirit of Christ.

ed a committee to circulate a subscription paper to see what amount of funds can be raised towards building a Baptist meeting-house in the town of Belleville."

These brethren, with Elder James Pulliam and Thomas James, were appointed "a Building Committee, May 18th, 1844, with full power and authority to contract for building a meeting-house in the town of Belleville, of such dimensions as they might in their judgment deem best for the benefit of the church." Sept. 21st, 1844, Bro. David Phillips made application for license to preach the Gospel, which was granted Oct. 19th, of the same year.

Sept. 20th, 1845, the Building Committee made their final report, which was received and the committee discharged. This was the first meeting held in the new house of worship. According to the minutes, the dedication sermon was preached by Elder James Lemen on the same day.

Sept. 27th, 1845, the new meeting-house was tendered to the Baptist Sunday-school, Bible class, singing societies, and to preachers of all orthodox denominations.

Jan. 16th, 1847, each member was required to attend every church meeting. This rule is wise and salutary. If I had been present I would have moved the following amendment, "every meeting of the church." The pastor of the church was required, on Feb. 20th, 1847, to visit each member once every three months and report to the church the state and condition of every member.

This is another judicious rule when carefully observed. Rev. J. M. Peck, pastor, August 19th, 1848, " named to the church that it was his duty to call the roll of the members, and thereupon proceeded and noted the delinquents." Why wouldn't this be a good rule for pastors now ?

"It was ordered, June 16th, 1849, that a collection be taken up the first Sunday of each month for missionary purposes, to be divided between the Missionary Union and the Domestic Missions."

Rev. Jason Corwiu was pastor 1849 and 1850. Rev. H. E. Hemsted served the church a little over a year. His period of service closed Sept. 26th, 1852. Oct. 16th, 1852, T. A. Morton was elected pastor. Elder James Pulliam asked permission of the church to build a steeple and to furnish a bell at his own expense, April 16th,

Giving to the cause of Christ is a privilege and duty, and when performed in the right spirit is as much an act of worship as praying. The citizens of Belleville put a clock in the steeple May 19th,

The church adopted the following resolution, March 24th, 1855, viz. : "to put a baptistery in the church and to build a parsonage." The baptistery was built, but the pastor, Bro. Morton, bought a

On July 21st, 1855, this important principle was expressed: "That no person can discharge his duties to God and his brethren while out of church relationship." This scriptural sentiment sharply reproves those who though once members of the church, subsequently have neglected or refused to sustain this relation, while they still claim to be Christians. It also condemns all Christians who have never united with the church. The church would not receive a letter that had been granted more than three months without satisfactory explanation.

Again they refused to grant letters unless the application was manifestly clear and proper. The following resolution was passed Sept. 23d, 1855 ; " That any member of our church who does not contribute, shall be dealt with for covetousness." In this connection the church recommended a weekly offering according to the Apostle's direction. In March, 1856, the church made an appointment according to the tax lists, which showed that they would have to pay $1.40 on the $100.00. There were 176 members then, and the taxable property owned by the church was $71,632,

Bro. James H. Ripley was elected deacon Feb. 28th, 1857. Elders James and D. M. Howell each preached to the church for^a short time. Elder E. Dodson was elected pastor June 20th, 1857. The church decided Jan. 16th, 1858, to hold a covenant meeting at three p. m., ou Sabbath after the regular church meeting,

Bro. Chas. Gooding was elected deacon Aug. 21st, 1858. Dec, 16th, 1860, James H. Ripley, Chas. Gooding and William Pulliam were ordained deacons. Elder H. S. Deppe served the church for several years. Rev. W. Iv- Jerman was pastor in 1860. The church for many years took up a collection every Sunday morning for church purposes. This custom was discontinued Jan. 21st, 1860. It was restored however May 17th, 1862, with the modifying clause, that the money was to be used for incidental purposes alone.

The discipline of the church in this period was Scriptural. The minutes generally begin j "Church in peace," e:^cept, <fec., and close, " Dismissed in fellowship." No church can be pure and efficient without prompt and judicious discipline.

Sept. 13th, 1863, Thomas S. Mire was licensed to preach. The church voted Feb. 20th, 1864, that a,bsence six months without a satisfactory excu.se, warrants exclusion. This rule if kjndly enforced would lop off many useless branches and cause others to live and bear fruit.

The coupon system of raising money for church expenses was adopted March 16th, 1872. March 21st, 1872, the purchase of a parsonage was again agitated by the church, but was not accomplished.

John Longhouser was licensed to preach Jan. 17tl), 1880. I have mentioned the names of the pastors in the chronological order found in the minutes, except Peters, W. Green, Cyrus Thomaa, W. S. Post and John Powell, for the reason that these belong to the immediate past, and to do justice to them and the church under their ministrations would extend this fragmentary history beyond the prescribed limits.

It will be fifty years next September since this church was organi?ed. She has had twenty pastors, serving on an average two years and a half. Short pastorates are unfortunate for the church and pastor generally. They show that there is something wrong in the church, or pastor, perhaps in both in many instances.

Statistics

During the entire history of the church so far as I have been able to determine, two hundred and twelve have joined by letter, four hundred have been baptized, ninety-four have been excluded, and two hundred and twenty-eight have been dismissed by letter. The present membership of the church is 173. The house of worship was finished and occupied the first time Sept. 20th, 1845, had become dilapidated and unfit for use. And as the church had an opportunity of selling it at a fair price, they did so last July.

The old Baptist house of worship has been remodeled and converted into an agricultural warehouse by McCormic & Co. A more desirable lot was purchased last fall for the new building. The walls are up and ready for the roof The new Baptist meeting-house is larger, more modern in style and better adapted in every respect to the purpose designed, than the old edifice. When finished, the new church will be one of the neatest, most comfortable and tasty in the city of Belleville.

Rev. John Powell, who furnished the above data of the First Baptist Church of Belleville, and who was pastor of that church for some time, is a devoted minister of the Gospel, and commands the confidence and esteem of every community where he ever labored. He is a man of liberal culture on all themes, and thoroughly versed in sacred literature ; and as a speaker to expound the Gospel and urge its precepts of doctrine, discipline and grace upon the minds of men, he stands in the front ranks of the Baptist ministers of the State.

The Unity United Baptist Church

In the early dawn of the present century the Baptist people established a settlement a few miles north-east of Belleville, and there has been an organized congregation in that vicinity, who at stated times has worshipped under the forms of the Baptist faith without any very great intermission for nearly eighty years. In the homes of the early settlers near Richland Creek was organized the first Baptist church in St. Clair County ; and the good influences which this event called into action are yet felt and exhibited in that community ; for nearly three generations there, with but few years excepted, the groves along Richland Creek and vicinity have heard and echoed on each recurring Sabbath the prayer and praise and song of Baptist worship.

At an early day the noble pioneer families of the Badgleys, Whitesides, Shooks, and some others settled in the vicinity of the present Unity Baptist Church. They consisted of a noble band of men and women, whose religion and whose noble energy and tireless industry -were most potent factors in iuflnence for good in the county and state. Those early Christians have long since passed away. It has been half a century since some of them entered that rest which God has promised his faithful children ; while at later times they have all one by one passed that vail which shuts out the infinite from mortal vision, and for many a year been' praising their Redeemer in the land of light and song. But the noble influence of these faithful men and women, who laid the first foundations of civilized government in this then western wilderness, and sanctified it with the benign light of religion, yet lives and sheds its hallowed fragrance on the hearts and minds of those who are striving to emulate their noble example.

The descendants of those early families, many of whom reside in the vicinity of Unity Church, with other members of the Baptist faith who had located in that community, were the immediate founders of the Unity United Baptist Church, and they largely composed its constituent membership. This church was constituted September 8, 1850, by Revs. R. C. Keele and J. V. Rhoads. The members built a very good church house about four and a Jialf miles north-east of Belleville, where they held worship with a reasonable degree of regularity on the Sabbath days, and where sessions of the church met at stated intervals for the transaction of business. The interests of the church prospered : but a great calamity in the burning of their church house befell thera a few years ago. Such a loss would have discouraged some churches of less piety and devotion in the Master's cause, but it had no such eifect on the worthy, active membership of Unity Church. They surveyed the disaster, and scarcely were the ruins cold until they declared for building another church : which noble resolution they made good without delay. It required a large outlay to build a new house, but the members did their duty well, and their friends gave some assistance, and in due time they completed their new house of worship. It is very neatly constructed, will accommodate \ from 250 to 300 people, and stands near or about on the site of the first house. On the south of the house is a beautiful grove, and the surrounding country consists of fertile farming lands with here and there a forest grove. The neighborhood is settled by well-to-do farmers and others, who give the church a generous support, and who largely attend its meetings.

The pastoral succession of this church were Revs. R. C Keele, John Brown, J V. Rhoads, T. N. Marsh, S B. Gulp, and Wm. H. M'Cann - a band of able, devoted ministers of the Gospel, whose nam33 and labors stand high on the lists of merit among the Baptist workers of Illinois. The church prospered under the pastoral care of each and all of these : there were, of course, times of depression, as in all other churches, when the interest would decline, but the general tendency of the church under their several administrations was in the direction of strength and progress. At times glorious revivals of religion would visit the church, and scores of anxious sinners would press forward for prayers, and many would experience a change of heart and unite with the church.

On the rolls of the church were the names of some noble workers in God's vineyard, whom the Master has taken unto himself: while among its members who yet battle for the church militant, are many good laborers in the Master's cause. Prominent among these is Warren Beedle, sen., one of the noble band who helped to maintain and make Bethel Church, but is now a member in Unity Church, having transferred his membership by letter from Bethel Church to the latter church, from motives implying no want of fellowship with his Bethel brethren. He is a man of large reading, liberal, wealthy, and highly esteemed by all who know him. He is eloquent and able in prayer and exhortation, and is an able worker in the Baptist cause and religious missions generally. He and his excellent Christian wife, Mary Beedle, live at their residence on their farm some five and a half miles north and a little east of Belleville. Their sons and daughters - 'all married - are ' influential active Christians. As a family - parents and children - they have done much to sustain the Baptist cause. W. L. Beedle, a son, is clerk of Bethel Baptist Church ; and Samuel Beedle, another son, is one of the most active and influential members of that church.

After the church organized, it elected its trustees, deacons, clerk and treasurer, and from time to time as occasion required or vacancies occurred, it filled those offices again. It has held Sabbath worship with the usual regularity of our other Baptist churches, which at times are without pastoral services, and its business sessions occur at stated intervals on Saturdays. The present numerical strength consists of fifty members. S. P. Badgley is its present clerk. Congregational singing is the prevailing mode in the music of the church. Death and removals, as in all the other churches, have at times reduced the membership in this church, but by other additions its strength is renewed and increased. This church has accomplished a mission of great good, and the promises are auspicious that it will yet do much more in the good Master's cause.

The South District Baptist Association

The South District Baptist Association at this time coraprisas the Bethel, Belleville, O'Fallon, East, St. Louis, Oak Hill, Freeburg, Lebanon, Richland, Collinsville, Pleasant Ridge and Troy Baptist Churches. The latter three are in Madison County. The Association was organized in 1820 and meets annually, on the Thursday before the first Sabbath in September, around from time to time at the different churches in the district ; and its meetings held continually until the following Sunday. It is composed of the ministers and pastors of the several churches in the district, together with such members as the several churches may respectively appoint as delegates or messengers. The objects are the discussion of and associated eflTorts in the general interests of religion and educational missions.

Its sixtieth anniversary was held at Bethel Church last year - 1880, September 5, 6, 7, 8. The officers were Rev. John Powell, Belleville, Moderator ; Rev. W. R. Andereck, Collinsville, Clerk ; and Deacon Charles Gooding, Belleville, Treasurer. The officers are chosen annually. The next meeting of the Association will be held at Troy Baptist Church, on Thursday before the first Sabbath in September, 1881. The introductory sermon will be preached by Rev. J. Cole, of Champaign.

The Baptist churches in the Southern part of the county generally belong to associations in connection with Baptist churches, beyond the Southern limits of the county.

The following gentlemen - ^leading members of the Baptist faith - have rendered much assistance in collecting and preparing the data in the foregoing sketch of the Baptist churches in St. Clair County, and their intelligent services are thankfully acknowledged : Hon John Wells, Marissa ; Rev. H S. Deppe and Solomon Teter, Freeburg ; Oscar Lemen, Collinsville ; H. E. Patterson, Lebanon ; N. S. Robertson, Smithton; G. W. Darrow and E. Davis, O'Fallon ; Rev. R. C. Keele, Salem ; W. L. Beedle, Caseyville ; Rev. John Powell, Charles Gooding, S. P. Badgley, and E. Alexander, Belleville.

It should be observed that the foregoing sketch of the Baptist chui'ches of St. Clair County, brings their history down to a period in February and March, 1881 ; and founded as it is upon the data derived from their several records, it is hoped it may be found to be a faithful reflex of the origin, development and progress of the Baptist cause in this county. It covers a period of ninety-four years, including the first act of associated worship by Baptist campers in the groves of St. Clair County, down to the present time ; and in brief outline indicates what the Baptist people here have done for their churches and faith.

As all organizations are but the combined, efibrt of individuals ; and as the leaders among these always impress their characteristics upon the organization they direct, a few representative laborers in the Baptist cause from each church have been traced briefly in their personal attributes and qualifications with the view to illustrate the characteristics of the men who have, so far as mere human agency may be concerned in the progress of the church, directed and advanced the Baptist cause here. There were and are hundreds of other noble leaders in the Baptist cause here, who with equal propriety might merit personal sketches, but it would have been incompatible with the necessary limits of this history : enough of these have been portrayed in their personal attributes to illustrate the characteristics of the worthy people who have plajited and upheld the Baptist cause in St. Clair County.

Though reversing the order of history, perhaps it would not he inappropriate to conclude this sketch by relating the incidents attending the first baptism by immersion in Illinois. In point of absolute time and fact. Rev. James Lemen, sen., was the first person so baptized in the State : though immediately following on the same occasion, at the same stream and by the same minister - Rev. Josiah Dodge - his wife, Catherine Lemen, with John Gibbons and Isaac Enochs were also baptized. Rev. Josiah Dodge was a resident of Nelson County, Kentucky, and was a Baptist minister of liberal learning and great powers as a speaker, who at that time, 1794, was preaching for a few weeks among the people at New Design, Monroe County. James Lemen, sen., had baen a Baptist in principle for quite a number of years, and in 1787 had made a public profession of religion, but was not baptized until this occasion. In later years he became one of the founders of Bethel Church in this county, and he aad his wife were two of the constituent members in that church. The baptismal scene occurred at Fountain Creek, Monroe County, February, 1794. The neighbors, far and near, collected on this occasion. The ice had to be cut and removed. When this was done, Rev Mr. Dodge and James Lemen entered the water, and amid the profoundest feeling of the spectators, the minister, in the words of the beautiful sentence in the rite which invokes the Triune God as a witness, baptized by immersion, the first subject in Illinois.

The African Baptist Churches In St. Clair County

In proportion to the colored population in St. Clair County, the colored Baptists are strong. These people have churches at Brooklin, Belleville, East Carondelet, L3banon, and Mount Zion (sometimes called Mount Olive) ; and at East St. Louis, and several other points they have Baptist congregations and casual meetings, which the colored Baptist ministers attend.

The Mount Zion (sometimes called Mount Olive) Colored Baptist Church is located three miles north of O'Fallon, and consists of some fifteen members. They own a small lot of land where the church house stands. The house will accommodate some seventy-five persons, and with the lot of land, is worth about $200. This church was organized some fifty years ago. The venerable John Livingston, a colored Baptist preacher, who died some years ago at the great age of over 100 years, gave much of his labor to this church in former years; and he, with Rev. Henry Smith, organized it. He also labored with much success at other points in the interests of the salvation of his race. Lately some of the white friends labored with that church in expounding the Gospel and in building up their Sunday-school. The Rev. Allison, a colored Baptist minister, and others have also labored at that church.

The Brooklin Colored Baptist Church, oiganized many years ago, now have there a house of worship ; their membership is strong and a large congregation attend their meetings. The Rev. Allison labored at that church for some time, and the Rev. Mr. Livingston labored there at an early day. The church is prospering, and has accomplished much good. The Belleville Colored Baptist Church secured a church house some years ago, where they hold their meetings. The membership is not numerous, but the church is prospering and efieoting much good under the pastoral care of the Rev. Mr. Wellard.

The Lebanon Colored Baptist Church corstituted some years ago, have built a church house which accommodates their congregation. The church consists of some 75 members, and has done and is doing much good work among its people. Rev. Mr. Smith is now pastor. The Colored Baptist Church at East Carondelet have built a house of worship. The membership is strong, and the church is advancing and achieving much good.

At all these churches the cause of Sabbath-schools is encouraged; and each church generally maintains its school. The colored Baptists of the county are taking much interest in the cause of their churches, and are laboring to improve their condition in all respects. They take an active, intelligent interest in educating their children, and a large measure of success attends their efibrts.

The Methodist Episcopal Church By Eev. J. D. Gillham

The history of the M. E. Church in this county dates back to about 1795. A class was organized near that time a short distance from what has been known for many years as Shiloh, and this became the Shiloh Church.

The records of the early history of the church in all parts of the county it seems have not been preserved, and hence it will be out of the question to give exact dates in most instances. I am indebted to Rev. E M. WestofEdwardsville, III., Mas.ter Mitchell, of Belleville, and others for important data.

And the old log church built there in 1806 has been thought by some to have been the first Methodist Church built in the State, though it is claimed by others that there was one built in 1805 in Madison County.

* I gather the following from an article published April 29, 1871, in the Christian Advocate, which contains a description of the old Shiloh Church. The correspondent writes as follows : " The Shiloh Church of to-day is the third one that has stood on the Shiloh campground. The first was a log-house, and is said to have been the first Protestant church of the Illinois territory, and was probably built about 1810." (From the best information I can get I am inclined to think it was 1805.) " Among its first members were Revs. John and Robert Thomas, local preachers, and several Scott families, whose descendants still live close around the homes of their pioneer fathers.

The second church was of brick, and was built in the year 1819. Mr. John J. Thomas, a druggist of Belleville, 111., is a son of James D. Thomas, and a grandson of Rev. John Thomas, who found the original subscription paper among his grandfather's papers, and presented it to the church on the night of our supper. The following is a true copy of it, and the sum that each one subscribed :

* In the year 1805, there was a Methodist Church built in the Goshen settlement, Madison County, on Thomas Good's land, two-and-a-half miles south of Edwardsville called " Bethel," which was the first protestant church built in Illinois territory.

There has been from the building of that church to the present time a Methodist society in that settlement, and a neat brick church now stands within oneand-a-half miles of the place where the old church stood, the name being changed to '' Centre Grove.''

It is, however, a matter of some dispute as to which was the first church edifice that was erected, at Shiloh, or at Goshen. Gov. Reynolds in his Pioneer History of IllinoiM, and Rev. Peter Cartwright in his book, and also many of the old pioneers of St. Clair county claim that the church built at Shiloh was the first M. E. Church erected in Illinois. We append this note hoping it will be the the means of eliciting investigation, and establishing the fact as to which was the first church.

" Whereas, the building at Shiloh is insufficient for the purpose aforesaid, being only intended as temporary. In order, therefore, for the continuance of public worship at said place, and for the erection of a suitable building for that purpose, we, the undersigned, promise to pay to the trustees of said meetiug-house, or to their successors, or to their orders, the several sums annexed to our respective names in the following manner, (that is to say) one-half of the amount on the first day of March next ensuing, and the remainder at or so soon as the building may be completed.

All of these old pioneer fathers have passed away. The mortal remains of many of them rest in Shiloh Cemetery. The house they built has long since passed away, and another one has been built in its place j ears ago, and it is now considered an old house nearly ready to be laid aside for a new one to take its place.

Shiloh is a sacred place to thousands of souls. Many who are in heaven doubtless look back with joy to old Shiloh, where they were born the second time. And many who are now living, and are scattered throughout the great West, many of whom have grown old and gray in the service of the Lord, can look back to old Sliiloh where they were first forgiven. And throughout the West is frequently heard, in love-feasts and class-meetings, " I was converted in such a year, and month, and on such a day, at old Shiloh camp-ground."

Since the above was written another handsome building of brick has been built 35x57 feet, with basement story, at a cost of $6700, and was dedicated November 28, 1875, by Bishop Thomas Bowman.

Peter Cartwright says in his autobiography : '' The real pioneer and leader of Episcopal Methodism in the state of Illinois, was Captain Joseph Ogle, who came to III., in 1785, and was converted under the preaching of Joseph Smith, (Baptist) of Kentucky, who visited and preached in June, 1787."

The first Methodist preacher was Joseph Lilliard, who visited this state in 1763, and formed a class in St. Clair Co., and appointed Captain Ogle leader.

The next Methodist preacher was John Clarke, who was originally a circuit rider in South Carolina, from 1791 to 1796, when he withdrew on account of slavery. He was the first man who preached the gospel west of the Mississippi, in 1798. The Rev. Hosea Riggs was the first Methodist preacher who settled in 111., and he revived and reorganized the class at Captain Ogle's, formed by Lilliard, which had dropped its regular meetings. Hosea Riggs settled in Turkey Hill neighborhood in 1796. It was he who, in 1803, left his blind wife and went to Mount Gerizim, in Kentucky, when the North-west Conference was in session, and laid before that body the necessities of Illinois, and induced the Conference to appoint Rev. Benjamin Young the first Protestant missionary to Illinois. He preached in what are now Randolph, Monroe, St. Clair and Madison Counties. It is thought by some that it was he who organized the Shiloh Society.

In 1804, Dr. Joseph Oglesby was appointed to the Illinois Circuit, which included St. Clair County. He is said to have been a fine preacher, and to have done much good.

In 1805, Charles R. Matheny followed Dr. Oglesby on the Illinois Circuit. He married a Miss Ogle of St. Clair County. Was an efficient and influential Methodist preacher. He did not continue a traveling preacher long, and subsequently removed to Sangamon County, where he filled several civil offices.

In 1807, Bishop William McKendree held a camp-meeting at Shiloh. It is said there were a great many conversions at this meeting and much excitement. Several persons had what was then called the Jerks. How much this singular, muscular movement was due to the influence of the Holy Spirit, I am not able to say. This year, Jesse Walker was on the Illinois Circuit. One party said to me that he had seen him take off" his coat and preach until it seemed to him he could smell brimstone.

From Reynolds' history we quote the following: - " He was the undaunted, and a kind of Martin Luther patriarch of the church of the AVest, and bore triumphantly the standard of the cross throughout the wilderness country, as well to the red men as the white." He resided a number of years in the vicinity of Shiloh.

For want of both time and space we are compelled to pass over many names and incidents connected with the early history of the church in this county that would doubtle:?s be of interest to many.

But the fifth session of the Illinois Conference was held here Sept. 13, 1829, Bishop Roberts presiding. There was a campmeeting held in connection with this conference. It is said there were a hundred camps and tents and about 180 conversions. It was a wonderful time.

Samuel H. Thompson was Field Marshal, and called it " a grand jubilee," " a pouring out of the Holy Spirit on the people." The father of Rev. E. M. West of Edwardsville, and Benjamin H. West of Belleville, had a tent, or rather a house on the ground, built of logs and partitioned iiito rooms. Day and night for over a week the meeting lasted. It is related that at the close of this meeting, the Bishop and preachers formed in line and marched around the encampment, then coming to a halt, the people all formed in line, and marched by the Bishop and ministers, all shaking hands, and singing that grand old hymn,

'' Hear the royal proclamation, The glad tidings of Salvation, Publishing to every creature, To the ruined sons of nature, Jesus reigns, etc., etc."

Two brothers, Edward and Samuel Mitchell, were marked men at this meeting. They had, with a large family connection, including the West family, emigrated from Virginia two years before, emancipated their slaves and preferred the hardships of a new frontier country to an easy life with slavery influences in the formation of the character and education of their children. Three of the sons of Samuel became noted ministers, and several of the grandsons of Edward, amongst whom was Rev. William W. Mitchell, for many years a much beloved and highly honored member of the Southern Illinois Conference. He was a brother of Mrs. B. J. West and Mrs. 8. J. Krafft, of Belleville.

Other camp-meetings have been held, and many gracious seasons of revival have been enjoyed at old Shiloh since this early date that we have not space to mention. In 1853, a camp-meeting of great power was held under the pastoral charge of Rev. Charles M. Holliday, of precious memory, and who but recently passed to his reward. As a result of this meeting, one hundred and eight were added to the Shiloh Circuit, and many others were converted who went elsewhere. But by removal a,nd death the Shiloh Church has been greatly reduced in numbers, and the membership at the present time is very weak. But may we not hope that the day may yet come when this time-honored place, the scene of so many signal victories for the Lord, this starting point of Methodism in this great State, shall be visited with the mighty power of God, and the shout of victory shall go up to heaven in the conversion of many souls ? Rev. P. C. Bascom is the present Pastor.

Is connected with the Shiloh Circuit, and was formed out of what was first calkd the Redmond class, from the man at whose house it was held. Afterward it was held at a Mr. Ogle's, then in the Vernon school-house, and called the Vernon class.

This was at an early date. When the town of O'Fallon was started, the class was moved to the school-house, and the name changed to the O'Fallon class. Their present neat church was built in 1864 at a cost of $7500. Their membership at present numbers about sixty.

M. E. Church At Lebanon

The first society was organized probably about 1825. By whom, and with how many members, I am not able to say. Lebanon Circuit is first mentioned in the General Minutes of 1829. Previous to that it seems to have been a part of what was known as the Kaskaskia Circuit.

Their first place of meeting was an old log school-house that stood north of the public square, on the site of the present German M. E Church.

Next for some years, a frame school-house on north-west quarter of square. Then from 1828 or '29, the chapel of the Lebanon Seminary, and that of McKendree College till 1852, when the first brick church was built on the site of the present Presbyterian church. It was 40 by 60, with basement fitted up for a Ladies' Seminary, at a cost of about $7500. This building was destroyed by fire in 1860, and was a total loss, as there was no insurance on it. The principal contributors to this building were, Benj. Hypes, Jos. Hypes, Dr. Riggin, N. Horner, Dr. Goheen, Dr. Chamberliu, and others.

The College chapel was used for several years as a place of worship, after the above building was burned. In 1867 the present beautiful church edifice, 47 by 81, with basement, was erected.

This was completed and furnished in 1870, at a cost of $17,000. But a heavy debt of between three and four thousand dollars was incurred, which has been hanging over them for years, but under the efficient labors of their present Pastor, Rev. T. H. Herdman, the entire amount has been provided for, and nearly all of it actually paid.

This church also has a fine large two-story brick parsonage, having ample grounds, built in 1873, at a cost of $3600. Their present membership is about two hundred. They have a prosperous Sunday-school, numbering about two hundred and fifty, superintended by J. M. Chamberlin.

In the years gone by, the church at Lebanon has enjoyed many gracious seasons of revival ; the more notable of which were those under the labors of Revs. J. S. Barger and J. H. Benson, in 1838. In this meeting one hundred and six conversions are reported. There was also a very extensive work of grace in 1868, under the labors of Dr. and Mrs. Palmer. Also, under Dr. R. Allyn, in 1864 and 1865, there was a good revival. Also, during the pastorate of Rev. G. W. Hughey there were a gOod many conversions.

Belleville M. B. Church

The first organization of the church in Belleville was probably about 1825 or '26. The first class was composed of the following members : - Richard Randle and wife, James and Annie Mitchell, James Harrison and wife, Susan Dennis, and Caroline E. Blackwell, (now Mitchell). Richard Randle was the leader, and they met in what was called the Dennis school-house.

Some years previous to this, however, there was a class organized about one mile north-west, which met at Bro. Stanley's. In what year the class was organized, and by whom, and how long it continued, I have not been able to ascertain.

The Quarterly meeting was being held in a hall. A Bro. McAlister from Missouri, came over and preached, and the congregation was so large that they adjourned to the woods, and during the services on Sunday a very heavy rain storm came up, and the entire congregation got a thorough wetting. The next day sister Caroline E. Blackwell, (now Mitchell), who came here in 1819, and who has always been very active in church work, wrote to her brother, Daniel Sprigg, in Hagerstown, Md., stating to him the great need of a church building here, and implored him to solicit money from the Methodists there, to help build a church. In response to this, the Hagerstown society sent $10.00, a lady in Baltimore $20.00, a Presbyterian minister in Hagerstown $5.00, and her brother $13.00.

Blackwell $50.00. The remainder was contributed by the people of the county, among whom were, David Blackwell $40.00, Tillman West $40.00, Edward and Samuel Mitchell $50.00 each, and many others whose names we have not been able to obtain, gave as liberally as their circumstances would allow. About 1826 the little btruggliiig society here enjoyed a very gracious revival under the labors of Wm. Blackwell, a local preacher, and nearly forty joined the church.

The oldest records of the church at Belleville that we have been able to find go back to 1836. And I give the minutes of the First Quarterly Conference, as take n from the old Record book, held that year.

The President nominated the following persons, who were appointed Stewards, to wit: Richard Randle Recording Steward, James Harrison, John C. Handcock, Edward Cessell, Thomas Harrison. Conference adjourned.

The most of these honored and faithful men of God have passed away to their reward, and others have taken their places, and have gone, and still others have come forward, and the work of the Church has gone steadily on.

In 1849 the building now occupied was erected, at a cost of about $8,000 or $9,000, and in 1875 it was remodelled, and greatly improved, at a cost of over $11,000, under the pastoral labors of Rev. G. W. Hughey. It is now one of the best churches in southern Illinois, and is valued at $17,500, with parsonage property worth $2,500.

The membership is over two hundred. The Sunday-school numbers from 225 to 275, and is under the superintendency of W. C. Buchanan. The history of the S. School in Belleville goes back a good many years. The first S. School was, it is said, organized in 1832. This was probably a union school. But as early as 1838, and probably some years before this, there was a Methodist Sunday-school. James Harrison was Superintendent. And from that day to the present the Sunday-school has been kept up, and doubtless many through its influence have been brought to Christ.

I give below a list of the official members at the present time J. D. Gillham, Pastor, B.J. West, W.C.Buchanan, B. H. Wtst, Theoph. Harrison, James F. Krofft. Louis P. Krofft, Wra. Heingleman, John Heingleman, Hugh Harrison, T. J. Ward, Richard Stanley.

Summeefield M. E. Church

Summerfield M. E. Church is a continuation of the old " Union Grove Church." The Union Grove Church stood a short distance, perhaps one or two miles, south of Summerfield. Here was the old " Union Grove Camp Ground." This society was at an early date called "Padfield." In this settlement the family of Rev. Samuel H. Thompson lived on his farm ; also Rev. John Dew, Rev. Thornton Peeples, and Dr. Cosad. Revs. James and Thomas Johnson, now members of the South* rn Illinois Conference, were, I think, born and raised in this vicinity, and both licensed to preach here. The society at PadSeld was probably organized as early as 1810 or '11. Peter Cartwright, in his Autobiography, says: "Although the Illinois Conference at the General Conference had been stricken off from Missouri Conference, yet the annual meeting this fall of both of these conferences was to be held at Padfield, Lookingglass Prairie, Oct. 23, 1824."

Rev. Peter Akens, D. D., preached at the funeral of the widow of Rev. Samuel H. Thompson at Union Grove, in 1855. His text was, " I am a pilgrim and sojourner as all my fathers were."

Tbe first church was built in Summerfield somewhere from 1S55 to '60. The lots were donated by Bishop Cavenaugh and his brother. Rev. T. B., of the M. E. Church South, who were the proprietors of the town of Summerfield.

The present church is a comfortable brick, and was erected some six or eight years ago. They have a membership of 42. It is now in Trenton circuit, and Rev. Thomas A. Eaton is pastor.

East St. Louis Chuech

We have an organization here, but I have not been able to get any facts as to the time when, or by whom organized.' Owing to the peculiar surroundings of the church in this place, it has always been a struggle for it to live. I find by reference to the minutes of the Southern Illinois Conference of 1855, that the lUinoistown Mission is mentioned, which I presume was what is now called East St. Louis, and A. F. Rogers was pastor. Whether this was the first year of the existence of the society or not, I am not able to say. In 1856 it is returned in the minutes to be supplied, and reports a membership of eight, with one church, valued at $800.

Every year since, they have had a regularly appointed pastor, and report a membership of about 80. The present pastor is T. J. Davis. Some years ago they built a new brick church, which is valued at $9,000, and a parsonage, at $2,0u0. There is an indebtedness on the church of several thousand dollars, with but little prospect that it will be liquidated in the near future.

Freebueg And New Athens M. E. Chuech

We have a total membership in the county of about 850. There are seven pastors, with an average salary of $734. This is exclusive of the German M. E. Church.

German M. E. Church

Of the history of this branch of the Church in the county I can give but few facts. There are five churches in the county, one at Belleville, one at Lebanon, one at Summerfield, one at Mascoutah, and one at Dutch Hill.

The one at Belleville was organized in 1850, in an old school-house, with a membership of 25. Their first church was' bought of the {American) M. E. Church, in the same year of their organization. They organized at the same time a Sunday-school.

Their second house, the one they occupy at present, was purchased of the Lutherans in 1864 for $8,000, including a parsonage and school-house. They have improved the property very much since, and its present value is about $12,000, free from debt. Their present membership is about 173. They have a good Sunday-school, which numbers about 200. They raise for preacher's salary, and benevolences annually $1,300.

The Summerfield Church was first organized in 1859, with 65 members. The church building was erected in 1864. They organized the first Sunday-school in 1864. This church has always been self-sustaining, never having received one cent of missionary money, and has paid from $500 to $700 a year salary. A' parsonage was bought in 1859, which is still occupied by the preacher as a pleasant home.

Lebanon is connected with the Summerfield circuit. The church here is weak. They purchased a house of worship in 1867. The membership at these two points numbers about 100. They have a good Sunday-school at each place. The value of their church property is $3,000. Parsonage, $1 000. H. F. Koen eke is the present pastor.

I have not been able to get any facts about the churches at Mascoutah and Dutch Hill. I think organization and progress is about the same as those already mentioned.

The Presbyterian Church

A HISTORY of Presbyterianism in St. Clair county, if extended to the early limits of the county, would be the history of Presbyterianism in the early settlement of the entire state, as the early settlements of the state were within what was then called St. Clair county. When the county was organized by Governor St. Clair, in 1790, it included almost the whole southern part of the state, extending nearly as far north as Peoria, including, at that time, all the settled portions of the state.

The earliest settlers under the French occupation of Illinois, were Roman Catholics. The earliest historical mention of a Protestant professor of religion in the territory of Illinois, was a member of the Presbyterian church. Dr. J. M. Peck (Baptist) on page 706 of Western Annals says, speaking of events that occurred about the time of the Revolutionary War, or previously ; " For the first eight or ten years of the period I have glanced over, the only professor of religion in the colony was a female, who had been a member of the Presbyterian church." When Samuel J. Mills and his comissionaries visited the Illinois country, on their south-western missionary tour in 1812, and again in 1814, they did not find a single Presbyterian or Congregational minister in a population of 12,000 or 15,000 people then living in the territory. " There are a number of good people," they say, " in the territory who are anxious to have such ministers among them.'' Again, in 1814, they say : " There is no Presbyterian minister in the territory. Numbers who have heretofore belonged to other Presbyterian churches are anxious to have, at least, occasional supplies.' Six miles south of Kaskaskia there was an Associate Reformed Presbyterian church Besides this they did not hear of a "single organized society of any denomination in the county, (Randolph) nor of an individual Baptist or Methodist preacher. The situation of the two counties above this (which would be St. Clair and Madison) is somewhat different. Baptist and Methodist preachers are numerous, and, we were informed, a majority of the heads of families are professors of religion." ' A Methodist preacher told us that these professors were almost all of them Presbyterians. And they would have been so still,' he said, ' had they not been neglected by their eastern brethren. Now they are Methodists and Baptists.' It seems from these extracts, therefore, that there were a number of persons of Presbyterian connection, who came with the early settlers of St. Clair county, both under its wider territorial limits and after other counties had been set off from it, their preferences being still for the Presbyterian church, but being without ministers or church organizations, they identified themselves with other bodies of Christians.

The first Presbyterian minister to visit the Illinois country was Rev. John Evans Fiuley, of Chester county, Pennsylvania, who landed at Kaskaskia 1797. His purpose was to labor in the Spanish colonies, mainly, perhaps, with a view to the Indians. "He preached and catechised, also baptized .several Indians.' He seems, however, to have remained but a short time, when he removed to Mason ' county, Kentucky.

The next Presbyterian ministers to visit' Illinois were the young licentiates, John F. Schimerhorn of New York, and Samuel J. Mills of Connecticut, in 1812, who visited the county on a missionary exploring expedition. They returned after visiting various places in the south-west, going as far as New Orleans, in 1813. The following year, 1814, Mr. Mills, accompanied by Rev. Daniel Smith, of Vermont, revisited the country of the south-west, and returned the summer of 1815. Up to this time there was no organized Presbyterian church in the territory of Illinois, and no Presbyterian preacher. Mills and his companions, on their return, published in eastern papers an account of the spiritual destitution of the couutiy they had visited, which at once aroused a deep interest among Christian people in the East, in the evangelization of the West.

The reading of these reports of Mills and his companions led Salmon Giddings, born in Hartford county, Connecticut, to devote himself to missionary labor in the South West, with headquarters in St. Louis. He was commissioned by the Connecticut Missionary Society, December, 1815, and the same winter rode through to St. Louis on horseback, arriving April 6th, where he continued to live until his death, February, 1828. Although Mr. Giddings lived in St. Louis, where he organized the first Protestant church, and was the first Protestant pastor, he frequently made evangelistic tours through the adjacent country, east as well as west of the Mississippi river. The first summer after coming to St. Louis he visited a number of points in Illinois, among them Kaskaskia, wherehe bap- tized, in August, 1816, Col. James L. D. Morrison, long known as a citizen of this county. Of the fifteen churches organized by Mr. Giddings in ten years, ten of them, or two-thirds, were in Illinois, among which were CoUinsville church, in the edge of Madison county, and the of St. Clair county, four miles southeast of Belleville, organized by Mr. Giddings in April, 1820, the first Presbyterian church within the present limits of the county. The church originally had eight members, but their names are unknown to the writer, except that Nathan Jones was one of the elders, and Deacon Josiah Crocker was, perhaps,, another. The church increased for a few years until in 1824, it had fourteen members, but the next year it was reduced, by removals and otherwise, to seven. Nathan Jones removed to Fulton county, the church became discouraged with its losses, a part of the remaining members joined the Methodists and the church became extinct. It never had the ministrations of a settled minister, but was dependent upon occasional supplies by traveling missionaries, which, as Governor Reynolds declared of ministers of that day, " were like angel's visits ; few and far between,"

Presbyterian Church Organizations Of Belleville

First Organization - 1833. - From the time of the disbanding of the Turkey Hill church, about the close of 1825, until January 6th, 1833, a period of almost seven years, St. Clair county was left without a Presbyterian church. Whether it was visited by Presbyterian ministers in that time is now unknown. The town of Belleville had been laid out in 1814, the same year that Mills made his last tour of exploration through the South-west. It is possible that during this time. Dr. Blackburn or Mr. Giddings might have visited Belleville, before the organization of the church.

The first church of Belleville was organized Jan. 6, 1833, by Rev. John F. Brooks. It numbered six members, viz. : Alfred Cowles, Charlotte Cowles, Thomas Scott, Jane S. Brooks, Simon Van Arsdale, and Harriett C. Alexander. Alfred Cowles and Thomas Scott were made elders. There were afterwards added : Andrew Spillard, Benjamin Van Arsdale, Joseph Green, Thomas H. Kimber, David Swyer, Louisa Swyer, and Samuel Patterson, making, with the six original members, thirteen in all. Of all these, only David and Louisa Swyer remain, after near fifty years, in connection with the church to-day. In 1837, by deaths and removals only ten members were left upon the church roll. One half of these lived elsewhere than in Belleville, and the others were about to move away. Letters of dismission were granted therefore to both absent and present members, and the first church organization of the Presbyterian name in Belleville, became extinct, after an existence of something over four years. This organization occupied, as its place of worship, 1, a one story brick building, 24x30, on the S. E corner of 2nd, South and High streets, one square from the present Presbyterian church, where the church worshiped for one year. 2. After this its meetings were held in a small room, used by Mr. Brooks as a school-room, on the east side of High street, between Man and 1st South. 8. Occasionally the court-house and Methodist church, also, were used. Mr. Brook was the only pastor this church had. He preached once in two weeks at his regular appointment, and taught school three years of the time of his pastorate. Both as teacher and pa'^tor he rendered very acceptable service. He was a native of the state of New York, a graduate of Hamilton College, and of New Haven Seminary. In his senior year, he, with six other theological students, drew up and subscribsd their names to a solemn pledge to engage in mission work in the state of Illinois. After his ordination, in 1831, when thirty years of age, he came immediately to Illinois, and in a little more than one year thereafter, he organized the church at Belleville. Mr. Brooks now lives at Springfield, Ills., and is eighty years of age.

Second Organization. - K second organization of a Presbyterian Church in Belleville was efi"iicted two years from the dissolution of the first. It was organized by Revs. Thomas Lippincott and A. T. Norton. There were nine members, three more than constituted the first church. These were William E. Chittenden, Thomas H. Kimber, Alonzo Dewey, Miss Sarepta Elder, and Miss Esther C. Dewey, all coming by letter. Three others were received on examination - David Miley, Phebe Miley, and Charles T. Elles. William E. Chittenden and Thomas H. Kimber were elected elders. The organization of the church the second time took place in a small brick house, owned by Elder Kimber, on the corner of Jackson and Second North streets, on the lot on which the new Baptist church now stands. The house is still standing, the first door south of the Baptist church. It was for a while used as the regular place of worship, with the occasional use of the court-house, as previously.

Mr. Lippincott had supplied the church the summer previous to the organization, and continued to act in that capacity for more than a year afterwards. He was a man of wide influence, of literary tastes and reputation, and lived to about eighty years of age. The church under him made no additions to its number of members. It seems, however, to have zealously pushed forward its work, as it determined at its organization that the " regular worship of God should be kept up in their house every Sabbath, whether their minister was present or not.'' These meetings, in the absence of the pastor, were conducted by Elder Chittenden, who was afterward ordained as a minister, and served the church two and a-half years as pastor.

Mr. Lippincott was succeeded by Rev. William Chamberlain, after the former had served the church one and a-half years. Mr. Chamberlain gave the church one-half his time at first, then onefourth of the time. He had been a missionary to the Cherokee Indians in Georgia. With their removal west of the Mississippi, he settled in Illinois.

A protracted meeting held by Mr. Chamberlain, in which he was assisted by Rev. James Gallaher, in 1841, resulted in greatly strengthening the church, and in the addition of twenty-four members to its number. He was followed, in 1842, by Henry B. Whittaker, who was a licentiate of Lexington presbytery. He remained with the church eight months, during which time a series of meetings were held, resulting in ten accessions to the church.

Rev. William E. Chittenden succeeded Mr. Whittaker, and served the church for two and a-half years, with very great acceptance. It was mainly through his efibrts that the second house of worship was built. About the time he began his pastorate, April, 1844, the church first became a corporate body, electing E. B. Lock? wood, C. T. Elles and Samuel Hinckley trustees. Their first work was to take steps towards the erection of a house of worship. Hitherto the church had worshiped in the Kimber building on Jackson street, then in a school-room, and finally in a rented room on High street, where the tailoring establishment of Rheiu Brothers now stands.

James Mitchell donated the larger part of the ground for the erection of a new building on the north-east corner of Illinois and First North streets, near the market-house, where a brick building, with basement, the present city hall, was erected at a cost of about

$2500. The ehurcli building was dedicated Nov. 9th, 1844, and continued to be the place of worship for twenty-nine years, up to April, 1873.

Following Mr. Chittenden, Rev. James R. Dunn supplied the pulpit six months, in 1845 ; B. Y. Messenger six months, in 1846- 47. Joseph A. Ranney then began, Nov. 1847, a pastorate of seven years, the longest pastorate the church has ever had.

During Mr. Ranney's ministry the church had a prosperous and steady growth, having received, in that time, sixty-nine members. In a series of meetings in February, 1849, when the pastor was assisted by Rev. George Clark, twenty persons were added to the church at one time. During the year 1849, when the cholera raged with such violence in St. Louis, Belleville also suffered severely. Out of a population of three thousand, two hundred and fifty died in sixty days, including ten members of the Presbyterian church, among whom was Elder Henry Batz.

Rev. John Gibson supplied the church six months in 1855 ; W. W. Warner a year in 1855-56. B. F. Cole, E. Barber, W. F. P. Noble each supplied the church a short time. Andrew Luce was pastor of the church from November, 1857.

In 1863 Mr. Luce entered the United States service as chaplain of the twenty-fourth regiment Missouri volunteers. His pastoral relation to the church was not dissolved until October, 1866.

Rev. John Dillingham was pastor of the church three years, from May, 1866 - a prosperous pastorate. Rev. James Brownlee was then with the church one year. Gerrit Huyser one year. Henry W. Woods one year three months from October, 1871.

In February, 1S72, a lot was purchased by the church on High street and Third South for 82800, with a view to erecting a new building. The old building was sold for $4500 to the city, April 19th, 1873. Work was begun on the new building May Ibt, 1874. The building was erected and the basement completed and ready for use on May 2d, 1875, when the present pastor, 0. S. Thompson, began his labors with the church, six years ago. The audience room was finished and the church furnished over a year later. The church was dedicated July 16th, 1876, Dr. J. H. Brookes of St. Louis preaching the dedicatory sermon. The new building is gothic, brick, about 45x80 feetj measuring from outside walls, with seating capacity for four hundred, with lecture room, astudy and infant class-room in basement. Cost $21,472. Cost of pipe-organ $1800-

The first year of Mr. Thompson's pastorate witnessed an ingathering of fifty-eight new members, forty-four of whom united on profession of faith. One hundred and twenty in all have been received in the six years.

In 1879-80 a parsonage was built at a cost of over $1700. The ruling elders have been : - W. E. Chittenden and T. H. Kimber, elected 1839 ; Henry Batz and David Swyer, 1843 ; W. H. Underwood, 1848; Charles T. Files and Russell Hinckley, 1850; E. W. West, 1876 ; Joseph Small and James McQuilkin, 1879.

The church has now about one hundred names on the roll of active membership. It has always had a flourishing Sabbath-school. The church has enrolled altogether about three hundred and sixtyfive members. It has raised for all purposes, buildings, pastor's salary, benevolence, etc., about $70,000.

Third Organization. - The Presbyterian church of Belleville, of which mention has been made, was in connection with what was known as the New School body.

On April 15, 1843, Rev. James Staflbrd organized a church of eighteen members, in connection with the Old School body. Ten of these eighteen members were from the already existing church. Thomas Osborn was one of the ruling elders. The church had occasional preaching, the Rev. Dr. Potts of the Second Church, St. Louis, being among the number of its supplies. But it was found that both churches were weakened by the division, and in time nearly all the members of the Old School church united with the one in connection .with the New School body, and the church was disbanded.

Lebanon Peesbytekian Church

The town of Lebanon, in the northern part of St. Clair county, has long been known as the seat of McKendree College, one of the early educational institutions of the State of Illinois. The institution is under the auspices of the Meth. Epis. Church. It has been not only a power for good in that denomination, but an important factor in advancing educational interests in Southern Illinois. It has likewise long made its presence felt in the town, where a large church of that denomination has existed for many years. But Presbyterianism is of comparatively recent growth in Lebanon. It was not until 1866, April 8th, that an organization was efiected in that place. The church was organized by Rev. A. T. Norton, D. D., of Alton, the veteran Nestor of Presbyterianism in the State.

The church was originally composed of nine members, namely : Dr. F. W. Lytic, Miss F. M. Lytle, Miss Amanda M. Johnson, Mrs. Margaret H. Woodworth, Mrs. Sarah J. Seaman, Miss Ruth Danforth, Mrs. Helen M. Atwood, Mrs. Elizabeth Wheeler, Mrs. Helen M. Horner. It has had as ministers, James Brownlee, William P. Teitsworth, and Lyman Marshall, the latter continuing pastor of the church for about nine years. Its ruling elders have been : Dr. F. W. Lytle, Charles Sayer, James H. Patterson, Robert Mills, Elmore W. Elethorpe, and Dr. C. A. Andrews Its house of worship was dedicated Nov. 10, 1867, and cost $4500.

The Presbyterian Church Of East St. Louis

Was organized by Dr. A. T. Norton and M. B. Gregg, July 14th, 1867, in the school-house on the island. The original members were : - Edwin E. Bassett, Miss Mercy B. Gregg, Mrs. Ellen V. Barrowman, Mrs. Ellen M. Hill, Mrs. Martha Ann Lowry, Mrs. Ann Brewer, Mrs. Lydia Chamberlain, Miss Emma Mockber, Mrs. Frances Todebush, Mrs. Mary Ellen Mahang, James H. Brooks, David Shield, Mrs. Euphemia Shield, Samuel McCullough, Mrs. Sophia McCullough, William Morrison, Mrs. Sophia Morrison, and Mrs. Virginia Raithel.

The services were first held in the upper room of a two story school-house on the island, since burned. A frame church edifice, with basement, was built the following year, 1868, at a cost of $6700. It was soon found that the population was moving away from the vicinity of the church, and that a removal of the church was necessary. A lot was accordingly bought on Collinsville ave., where a new building was erected, the material in the old church being used in part, at a cost of about $5000. The building was dedicated September 8th, 1878.

Its first minister was Rev. Martin B. Gregg, 1867, after the church was organized. He was succeeded by Rev. John D. Janes, who preached to the church in 1869-71 ; Samuel Sawyer, 1872-73, William L. Johnston began his ministry with the church, as licentiate, April, 1873, and continued for six years, until May 3d, 1879. Mr. Johnston left the field to accept an appointment as foreign missionary at Sidon, Syria. His pastorate was a very efficient one. It was largely due to his unwearied efforts that the second church was built.

Rev. S- H. Hyde, the present pastor, took charge of the church Feb. 15th, 1880. It now has sixty members, with prospects of an increased membership amd usefulness.

Lebanon German Presbyterian Church

Was organized Feb. 16th, 1868, by Revs. James Brownlee and Charles W. Saaman. It had, at its organization, eighty members- It had church property, which was, however, involved and embarrassed with debt. The church has not had a prosperous life. Only a very few now remain of the original number. They keep up a Sabbath-school, and have services on Sabbath afternoons, when an evangelical German minister, from Summerfield, preaches.

United Presbyterian By Rev. S. B. Lyons

The congregation originated with thirty-two members from the Reformed Presbyterian (N. S.) congregation of Hill Prairie, St. Clair county. In order to fully uniarstani the circumstances of its origin, we go back to a period shortly before its history opens. In 1869 the General Assembly of the United Presbyterian Church and the Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church (N. S.), each appointed delegates to confer and prepare a basis of union upon which the two churches might unite. A basis was agreed upon by these delegates, and in 1870 accepted by the United Presbyterian Assembly. The Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church did not accept this basis of union. In Aug., 1870, the Western Presbytery of the Reformed Presbyterian church, at a called meeting in Coultersville, Illinois, agreed to enter the United Presbyterian Church. The ministers of said Presbytery at that time were Revs. Wylie, Harsha, McMaster, Bratton, and Martin. Rev. Wylie did not favor the movement. The Presbytery was received into the United Presbyterian Church at a meeting of the Synod of Illinois, at Paxton, in 1870. This movement caused a division of each congregation in this Presbytery, excepting that in Eden, Randolph county. Rev. Wylie, pastor, part only of each congregation entering with their pastor the United Presbyterian Church. The congregation of Hill Prairie was without a pastor at the time, but two members of session, Robert Wilson and Hugh Nairn, with thirty members of the congregation, entered the United Presbyterian Church as an organized body, thus forming the present United Presbyterian congregation of Marissa. In the summer of 1871 this congregation commenced the erection of a house of worship in the new town of Marissa. The building was finished and ready for occupancy Jan. 1, 1872. The first pastor of the congregation. Rev. J. W. Glenn, began his pastoral labors Jan. 1, 1872, preaching about one-half time in Marissa ; but from Jan. 1, 1874, his full time was given to Marissa congregation until his death in June, 1879. The present pastor, Rev. 8. R. Lyons, was installed Aug. 3, 1880. The congregation, beginning with thirty-two members, has received into its communion, in all, two hundred and six. Present membership (Jan., 1881), one hundred and twenty-three.

Early in the year 1872 a Sabbath-school was formed, which has since been steadily increasing in attendance, interest, and usefulness, numbering at present in its average attendance nearly two hundred.

Reformed Presbyterian Church By Rev. J. B. Crawford

In the summer of 1842 the Reformed Presbyterian Church of St. Clair county, Illinois, had taken its rise. About twenty persons who had been instructed in and possessed a knowledge of the noble and precious principles of their Covenanting fathers, and of the holy religion, to which they were inseparably attached, entered into an organic capacity. This is the only congregation of Reformed Presbyterians in St. Clair county, and is known by the name of the " Hill Prairie Church." In the fall of 1842 they succeeded in calling, and had ordained and installed over them, the late Rev. Michael Harsha, who preached to them one-fourth of his time. The country not being closely inhabited, their growth was by no means rapid. Yet they labored with the utmost patience and zeal, and with the brightest anticipations that success should some day crown their efforts. Their meagre supply of the stated ordinances by the Rev. Michael Harshaw continued only until August, 1846, when the union between pastor and people was dissolved. Prom that time until 1857 a very small amount of supplies could be rendered tliem, and financially they were unable to obtain it. For about thirteen years they were without a house of worship. The private houses, however, were the sanctuaries of the Lord, where sociability and afl^ection marked the character of every worshiper. Here the minister of Jesus Christ was most enthusiastically received to unfold the word of truth and dispense the sacraments. Public worship was for the most part carried on in the houses of Mr. James Wilson, sen., and James Lyons, now deceased. Prosperity began to dawn upon them, and harmony and unanimity characterized the worshipers as men and women zealous of good works. In the spring of 1855 their ability and energy enabled them to erect for themselves a house of worship on Hill Prairie. It still stands for the worship of God, and is the joy of those who come hither to join in the sacred exercises. The town of Marissa is a quarter of a mile north of it.

In January, 1857, after having called Mr. N. K. Crow, he was ordained and installed over them as their pastor, who preached to them the one-half of his time, until March, 1864. Being largely endowed with a missionary spirit, and regarding it a greater necessity to carry the word of truth among the freedmen of the South, he was released of his charge in Hill Prairie. During his pastorate there was marked prosperity. His ministration was waited upon with eagerness.

Not long, however, were the congregation destitute of an under shepherd. The people who had been so faithful in maintaining the noble principles they professed, and who were so constant to the most grand of all the causes by which they were identified, had placed over them in July, 1864, the late Rev. John Nevin, who was unexcelled as a faithful pastor. During his pastorate in Hill Prairie he was eminently successful, and his labors were specially blessed. The membership of his congregation amounted to about one hundred and twenty. They possessed in a large degree the spirit of charity and liberality. They contributed largely to home and foreign missions, and other benevolent purposes. In August, 1866, death bereft them of their faithful and beloved pastor. This cast a cloud of sorrow over the whole community, and the bright anticipations of his beloved flock were blighted. For a lapse of about eleven years they were without the stated ministry. During this time some were anxious for a union between the Reformed and the United Presbyterian Churches, and in 1870 those who were favorable to this union withdrew from the Reformed Presbyterian Church and joined the United Presbyterians. Sixty-five individuals, however, v\ho still had respect to their principles, maintained their integrity and organization, and in 1877 J. B. Crawford having been called by them, was in May of that year ordained and installed over them. Thus the congregation still exists.

Beief History Of The Evangelical Lutheran By Rev. C. Kuehn

This church, at present, comprises various congregations in this county. All these congregations belong to the German Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Missouri, Ohio and other States. A few remarks concerning this large and important church body are therefore justified, and will be of interest;

It was in the year 1839, the 19th of February, when the last division of a larger company of emigrants, called the Saxon emigrants, arrived at St. Louis, Mo. The sole cause of their leaving their native country was the decay and deplorable condition of the Lutheran Church in Germany, where from most pulpits the pure doctrine was no longer preached, but, instead of it, unbelief and skepticism. This sad state of affairs induced a great number of Lutheran Christians to come to America, hoping to be thus enabled better to provide for their own and their children's spiritual welfare. They, and amongst their number several ministers and candidates of theology, under the leadership of a certain pastor, chartered five ships to sail for their new home, four of which arrived safely at New Orleans ; the fifth was lost at sea, never to be heard of again. From New Orleans they proceeded by river to St. Louis A few of them remained there, starting a small congregation, while the rest selected a piece of land of 4440 acres in Perry county. Mo., where they finally settled. Meantime, their leader proving to be a hypocrite and an immoral m^an, they renounced him and cast him off. At last they divided themselves into four congregations, of which the several ministers mentioned above, to wit : E. G. W. Key], G. H. Loeber, M. Buerger, C. F. W. Walther, took charge. Rev. O. H. "Walther was the pastor of the congregation at St. Louis. After his decease, in 1840, his younger brother, C. F. W. Walther, was called in his place by the congregation. He fills it to the present day, under the aid of four vicars. In 1844 he started a church paper, the Lutheraner, a well-known semi-monthly. After the endurance of many hardships, these congregations became thriving and flourishing.

During this time a number of Lutheran pastors had come to America to serve the church, of whom the most important were - F. W. Wyneken, August Craemer and Dr. AVm. Sihler. As missionaries, they visited the States of Ohio, Indiana and Michigan. The former at length became pastor of a congregation at Baltimore; the latter became the founder of one at Frankenlust, Mich. ; while Dr. Sihler finally was called to Fort "Wayne. These gentlemen were in communication with Rev. "William Loehe, of New Dettelsau, Germany, who induced them to start a seminary at Fort "Wayne, supporting them with money, and sending students and candidates of theology.

Chiefly by means of the Lutheraner, were they acquainted with their Saxon brethren at St. Louis and Perry county. Three of them journeyed to St. Louis in 1846, to become personally acquainted with them, and to speak about uniting in an ecclesiastical organization. This was carried out a year later at Chicago, then a city of about 20,Q00 inhabitants. From St. Louis had arrived the Revs. "Walther, Fuerbringer and Loeber ; from Fort "Wayne, Dr. Sihler, "Walter, Streckfuss, Ernst and Husmann, and some students. Besides these, were present the ministers Fick, Poeschke, Buerger, Scholz, Trautmann, Richmann, Schuster and Craemer. After filing a constitution, sixteen ministers and twelve congregations united as the German Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Missouri, Ohio and other States. In the course of time, this Synod so increased in number that it was necessary to form several districts. At present there are seven of them, and, as is expected, two more will be added in a short time. The congregations of this Synod are located in nearly all the States of the Union, and their missionaries are at work in many Territories. About six hundred congregations and seven hundred or more ministers are members of this Synod ; its president pro tem. is Rev. H. C. Schwan, of Cleveland, Ohio.

Briefs About The Congregation At Belleville

In the year 1861, several members of the United Evangelical congregation separated from it on account of disharmony, which arose during the building of a new church (on Jackson street). They separated with the intention of forming a new congregation, and the 17th of March they met for the first time, organizing themselves under the name of German Evangelical Lutheran Zion's congregation. Of those first members are still living and having membership, Messrs. Hy. Riitter, Wm. "Wehmeyer, F. Rutter, N. Schuessler, J. Schiissler, Casp. Nagel F. Nagel, Wm. Schlueter, C H. Eggersmann, Wm. Winker, Ad. Loos, F. Endres, H. Stolte, Aug. Brandenburg and others.

In order to obtain a minister, they applied to the Synod of Missouri, Ohio and other States, respectively to Rev. Prof. C. F. W. Walther, at St. Louis, who proposed to them two candidates from the Theological Seminary of that city. Of these two candidates they elected Mr. E. Mangelsdorf, and called him as their pastor to Belleville, who took charge of the congregation in April or May. Under his labors and control the congregation increased and developed. Their services were held in a small chapel of the Episcopalians, on Jackson street. A good constitution was adopted and subscribed to by all members.

In the next year, the congregation, encouraged by increase, and compelled by various circumstances, resolved to put up a building, in which its services could be held. They purchased a corner lot on Church and First North streets, for the sum of $500, and soon after commenced the building on Church street (30x40), with the understanding that it should be the school-house of the congregation, which should be followed by a church building as soon as convenient. So this little building has been used both for school and church until lately.

Rev. Mangelsdorf commenced to teach school, and as soon as it was established several teachers in succession were called to take charge of it. The name of the present teacher is Wra. Fedder. In April, 1865, the congregation joined the Synod from which it had received its pastor and teacher, namely, the Synod of Missouri, Ohio and other States ; and two years later they increased their property by building a parsonage beside the school. Shortly after, their minister was called as pastor to a Lutheran congregation at Bloomington, 111., which call he followed, the vacancy at Belleville being filled in the person of Rev. Ad. Bilwend, a graduate of the St. Louis Theological College. He also remained but a short time, following a call to E. Boston in 1871.

Chr. Kuehn, a graduate of the St. Louis Theological Seminary, of the Synod of Missouri, Ohio and other States, was appointed his successor, and is the present pastor.

months after, a subscription list was put up, and witli the arrival of seasonable weather the digging for the foundation commenced. The second day of Pentecost (17th of May) the corner-stone was laid, and about a year later (the 27th of March), the dedicatory ceremonials, conducted by Prof. Schaller, Rev. Link, of St. Louis, and Eev. Gotringer, of Mascoutah, took place. The length of the church is 60 feet, with an addition of a 12-feet niche, and a projection 5 feet by the tower, making an entire length of 77 feet. The width is about 40; height of steeple, 128 feet. The building is carried out in Gothic style, and is pronounced by the papers an ornament for the city. This fine church building, including a beautiful 12-stop pipe organ (costing about $900), and two bells of 400 and 750 pounds, costs about $10,000. Mr. Wm. Wehmeyer is the one to whom the congregation is mostly indebted for attaining the desired end.

It may be of interest to learn that since the organization, of the congregation, 1142 children have been baptized by its ministers ; 464 children have been confirmed ; 205 couple were united in marriage, and 303 persons have been buried.

Was organized on the 8th of November, 1868, by Rev. Fred. Rudolf Herold, and is in connection with the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of. Missouri, Ohio and other States. In 1869 the congregation, then numbering about sixty members, erected a church edifice at the cost of about $6000.

No one can be or become a member, still less an officer, in this congregation, or participate in any of the rights of a member, except he who (a) is baptized ; (b) acknowledges all the canonical books of the Old and New Testaments as the only divine rule and standard of faith and life ; (c) while he may perhaps be yet deficient in the knowledge of the collective symbolical books, at least knows and acknowledges the Augsburg Confession and Luther's Smaller Catechism ; (d) does not live in manifest works of the flesh (Gal. V. 19-21), but maintains a Christian deportment ; (e) does not belong to a secret society ; (f ) frequently joins in the communion, when of adult age ; (g) submits to the church regulations, which have been established by mutual consent, or which may yet be established, provided they are not contrary to the word of God, and . permits being corrected in brotherly love, when he has erred. The tests as to qualification for membership are the person's profession, when not contradicted by his conduct.

The present number of voting members (males over twenty-one years of age) is about 70. In all - men, women and children - about 425 persons belong to the congregation. After the death of Rev. F. R. Herold, which occurred on the 6th day of July, 1871, the present pastor, J. G. Goehringer, was called by the congregation. He entered upon his new field of labor in July, 1872, and has been serving the congregation since that time. Besides the church building, the congregation has a parsonage and a school- - house of its own. The Sunday-school is attended by 150, the dayschool by 60 scholars. The present teacher of the day-school, Mr. J. G. Wissbeck, was engaged by the congregation in September, 1880, and it is his duty to instruct the children attending the school in all the branches of science taught in the public schools, and in the faith and confession of the Lutheran Church ; so that they may not only become useful citizens, but, above all things, good, sound Christians. The present value of property owned by the congregation (church, parsonage and school-house) is about $8000- The annual expenses, including the salaries of the pastor, the teacher and the sexton, insurance, repairs, etc., are about $1200, which are covered partly by subscriptions and partly by collections. Fairs,

Evangelical Lutheran Church At Darmstadt

This congregation was organized in 1865, under guidance of Rev. J. P. Baumgart, of Venedy, Washington county. III., who officiated as minister of the new congregation until a pastor could be had. The congregation consisted at first of thirteen members only. The pastors having had charge of it are : Revs. M. Stuelpnagel, F. W. Pennekamp, H. Proehl, and H. W. Hoemann. The present pastor. Rev. J. P. Baumgart, organized the church as above stated. The church building was erected in 1866, at a cost of $2000.

At the present time, the congregation numbers seventeen families. There is a day-school connected with the church, under the management of Rev. Baumgart, the pastor.

Evangelical Lutheran Church At Millstadt

The first church building of this congregation was erected in the year 1849, when an organization was perfected. The membership was very limited, not more than ten, all told. Rev. Schieferdecker took charge of the small flock ; but the blessing of the Most High was with them. Their temple of worship was a small wooden edifice, erected at a cost of $800. The present worthy pastor. Rev. F. W. Holls, has been in charge of the congregation ever since 1851 ; he has seen it grow and prosper, numbering now about 400 souls. 1 he wooden edifice of 1849 made room for a splendid church building of brick, erected in 1871, at a cost of over $4000, including parsonage and school-room. The church building proper will comfortably seat 300 persons ; has a bell-tower, aud is provided with a fine organ. The parish-school, under the control of the pastor, is conducted at present by a competent teacher, G. Seboldt, and attended by about 45 pupils.

The congregation has another church building, in township 10, 1 north, erected in 1845, under management of the Rev. Schieferdecker. It is now, and has been since 1851, under the charge of Rev. F. W. Holls.

By Ferdinand Fleischer

Proceeding from former organization, was establis-hed in 1859. The landed property, 100x150 feet, is situated on the corner of Richland and 2d North streets, bearing the church building, the old parsonage, and the new parsonage, with Sunday-school room.

Presidents of the board of the congregation have been the following citizens of Belleville: Philip Rodenmayer, John Rodenmayer, Andreas Kissel, and Wilhelm Friedrich, the present one since several years. The membership amounts to about 200 voters.

By Joseph E. Betts

William Anderson and Henry Curedon, appointed at a special council, by the officers of said church, held at Nauvoo, Hancock county, Illinois, September 12, 1863, arrived in St. Louis, January, 1864. They commenced setting forth the claims of the Re-organized Church, and soon found some to receive them and endorse their teaching.

On the 7th of February, a Branch with eighteen members was organized ; they then came over the river and commenced preaching in St. Clair county at Illinoistown, and at Caseyville and Chester ; they reported their labors at the annual conference.

April 6th, 1864, a Branch was organized at Caseyville and Illinoistown. June 11th, the Caseyville Branch numbered thirteen members. In July a Branch was organized at Carbondale of ten members, and through the preaching of the representatives the Branches continued to increase in membership.

In December, 1866, a Branch was organized at Alma mine with nine members. At the above date the Carbondale Branch numbered twenty-five ; the Caseyville Branch numbered fifteen. On March 10th, 1867, a Branch was organized in East St. Louis with nine members. A Branch organized at Newpitsbourge reported, at the above date, thirteen members.

December 14th, 1873, the Alma mine Branch reported thirty-two members. A Branch organized at Beeb's Station reported twelve members. Also a Branch at West Belleville, at the above date, reported forty members.

April 4th, 1880, the Caseyville Branch reported forty members. The Alma Branch reported fifty-six members. The Belleville Branch reported sixty members. The total membership of the Church of St. Clair county in January 2d, 1881, was one hundred and fifty-eight.

This church does not believe in Brigham Young being a prophet, nor in the doctrines he taught, but believe that old Joseph Smith, the martyr, was a true prophet of God, and that his son Joseph is his legal successor, and have adopted the same code of discipline, both moral and spiritual.

The Church Of Christ

in the town of Mascoutah, and was organized chiefly through the instrumentality of Elder W. A. Manville. Mrs. Schwisser was for years the sole representative of the cause in Mascoutah. She was a faithful, zealous Christian, and when steps were taken to hold a series of protracted meetings by Elders Mulkey and Bryant, she hailed their advent gladly. The first meetings were held in the Methodist Church. These were followed up by meetings in a Grove, (" God's first temple "), near the town ; considerable interest was awakened, and an organization was effected by choosing Elders Bridges and Manville, as elders, and Absalom P. Free, as clerk. In all there were twelve members. Believing it the most available point, they erected a house of worship at Reutchler's Station, which through financial embarrassments they subsequently lost. The organization was made May 3d, 1874, and in 1874-5 they built the house they now occupy in the south-eastern part of Mascoutah, at a cost of $12.30. Elder Manville, in his earnest zeal, sacrificed a farm to secure the erection and proper fitting up of the house. The present membership is twenty-five. The congregation has been blessed by the efforts of Elder Isaac Mulkey, Elder R. L. McHatton, Elder Bryant, and others. The house was dedicated to the service of God, by Elder J. H. Garrison, editor of The ChiisHan, October 24, 1875. At present J. H. Brinkerhoff, Principal of the Public Schools of Lebanon, and W. A. Manville, are elders. A Sunday-school, in connection with the church, is well kept up under the superintendence of Charles Lively. Few congregations of any order can point to nobler spirits than W, A. Manville ; few men have the cause of Christianity more at heart than he ; fewer yet have sacrificed so much in behalf of the cause. A faithful pastor, a diligent worker, he is respected by all men.

St. Luke'S Protestant Episcopal Church Of

The Parish of St. Luke is under the spiritual authority of the Right Rev. George F. Seymour, Bishop of Springfield, and the application to him for its establishment bears the date of March 24, 1880, and is subscribed to by the following names: - A. B. Russell, Mrs. Mary E. Russell, Mrs. Jane C. Snyder, Thomas Ibbotson, Mrs. Lucy M. Ibbotson, Mrs. Isabella M; Codye, Miss Mary A. Park, Mrs. Sarah Henkemeyer, Mrs. Catharine Campbell, Mrs. Collie McCuUough, Mi-s. Mary E. Gunn, Dr. A. B. Gunn, S. H. Ingham, Mrs. Caroline Ingham, Mrs. Charles A. Monk, Mrs. M. C. Mullen, Mrs. Fannie I. Schember, Miss Marie Challenor, Mrs. Thomas Challenor, Mrs. Elizabeth C. Niles, Miss Agnes A. Hallam, Dr. J. G. Hallam, Henry Davis, Mrs. Marie E. Davis.