Silver Creek Township (part 1 of 2)

Silver Creek Township

that its most exacting patrons could desire. The office and job rooms of the undertaking were established at 104, 106 and 108 Stephenson street, where the business was conducted by Atkins & McCall, solus, until April 5, 1866, when M. B. Mills was associated with the firm, and made the responsible head of the jobbing and news departments.

This arrangement lasted somewhat longer than one month, when the printing and job office of the North- West was consolidated with the Journal, and the business of both offices was conducted from that of the latter, under the firm name of McCall, Bailey & Mills. The former paper was somewhat changed in appearance, and issued as "A Weekly Journal of Western Literature," the first issue being number forty of volume one. This volume was closed on August 16, 1866, with bright promises of success for the ensuing years. It had become a permanent institution, occupying a proud position among the literarv periodicals of the day, and possessing a firm hold upon the afi'ections and sympathies of the literary men and women of the West. The second age of the paper was begun amid the most favorable auspices, containing many improvements on the one just closed and recommended to favor by features of excellence theretofore unknown to the vicinity. The issue of August 23 was materially enlarged, the title page handsomely decorated, and the character of its contents improved, if anything, with its renewed hold on life and popularity. On December 13, it was treated to a new dress throughout, and in January, 1867, began a serial story, descriptive of soldier life during the war. But this was its last active sigh, as it were. The effort to procure support for a weekly of an exclusively literary character, began to fail from this date, and finally made its quietus during the year. Notwithstanding the merit of the undertaking, the superior quality of the publications and the character of those who contributed, among whom were John Esten Cooke, Wirt Sykes, Mrs. Rayne, Olive Logan and others of literary reputation, the scheme was not encouraged, and, as stated, retired from the field, after an apprenticeship of scarcely two years. The job office was combined with the job department of the Journal office, and naught but an incomplete set of imperfect files remain to tell the story, not only of what the North- West was, but what it might have become, had the lines of its life been cast in pleasanter places.

The Monitor. - A weekly record of current events, local. State and national, was established about January, 1874, by W. T. Giles, one of the oldest editors and publishers in the Northwest. It was a quarto, sparkling with bright ideas and pungent paragraphs, and, though independent, with Democratic tendencies, was never neutral upon subjects demanding decisive action. It weekly blossomed forth from its official cradle, first rocked in the Hettinger Block, on Stephenson street, and finally in the Grange building, at the corner of Adams and Stephenson streets, and was received by a community which appreciated true reform, integrity in the performance of duties, and the fearless advocacy of the rights of the people against the oppressions of wealthy monopolies.

Along in 1878, the Monitor was purchased by the Stabeck brothers, editors of the Freeport and Davis Budget, for |l,000, was consolidated with that organ, and is to-day known among the enterprises which appeared on the newspaper horizon of Freeport, and after a season of brilliant scintillatings dissolved from view.

The JDeutscher Anzeiger, a German quarto of pronounced Democratic sentiments, first appeared during 1853, under the management of William Wagner, Sr. Its earlier publications were folios, with five columns to the page, the editorial, local and "scissors" departments being conducted solely by Mr. Wagner. Its existence was continued in spite of the obstacles which invariably present themselves to enterprise, but are overcome by industry and the happy faculty possessed by the originator of adapting himself to the situation. Its subscription list was limited, and the patronage measured. But able management has conquered success, and the sheet, which at first was weak, has continually grown in favor among the German population of Stephenson and adjoining counties, until it has become the leading German paper in the northwestern portion of Illinois, having a circulation of 1,300 copies, to which additions are made weekly. Mr. Wagner continued in charge for a period of ten years. In 1863, the son of Mr. Wagner became a partner in the enterprise, and has since aided materially in accomplishing the substantial results achieved.

In January, 1868, the paper was changed to a quarto, and, in January, 1876, an additional column was added to each page. Varying fortunes attended the undertaking, yet, at the close of each succeeding year, renewed encouragement was afforded the proprietors.

In December, 1877, Mr. Wagner, Sr., deceased, but the firm name under which it was known to the readers, "' W. Wagner & Co.," remained unchanged, although the several duties of the profession were discharged by the surviving partner, who assumed public control in 1879, and still remains in charge.

In 1874, a handsome and spacious building was erected by the publishers on Chicago, between Stephenson and Galena streets, at a cost of $3,000, and equipped with all the paraphernalia peculiar to the craft, a job department added, and the machinery, presses, etc., worked by steam since early in 1879.

The Anzeiger is now published as a six-column quarto, furnishing its readers on an average thirty columns of well-selected reading matter weekly, and offering to advertisers a desirable medium of communication with the public. Another item worthy of mention is the fact that the Anzeiger is the only weekly in Stephenson County edited, set up and printed entirely at home, the other weeklies includiug in their make-up either what is known to the business as "patent insides," or stereotyped matter.

Politically, as already stated, the paper is Democratic, locally a valuable source of domestic intelligence, and, in other respects, an enterprise deserving of the liberal support extended.

The Freeport Banner, the latest acquisition to the fold of German weeklies in Freeport, made its first appearance in July, 1879, chaperoned by H. W. Frick, an enterprising Teuton, who appreciates the value of independence in conducting a paper. The Banner assumes to represent the rights and interests of the people in the contest between labor and capital, and holds itself out as an " organ for the Germans of Stephenson County " to publicly define their several positions with reference to matters which interest them individually, nationally, or in relation to affairs of state. It is a seven-column folio, printed in clear type, and rapidly gaining a circulation extending all over the county. Its office is at the corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, over the Stephenson County Bank, supplied with a job department, wherein printing in German and English can be contracted for, and has a circulation of 500 copies. The establishment is valued at $1,000, and the paper is edited by its owner, Mr. Frick.

Nord WestUche Post. - The seemingly apparent need of a German organ of independent proclivities, influenced F. Krumme to venture a trial of the experiment in 1875. A brief experience, however, convinced him of the fact that but little support could be obtained in Freeport, whence he removed to Lake City, and finally to La Crosse, where he was greeted with encouragement equally as cheerful as that which had attended his efforts in Illinois, and abandoned the undertaking finally at the latter city.

The Freie Fresse was established some time in the year 1868, by leading representatives of the Republican party, for the purpose of educating the' Germans into a complete understanding of the facts and figures of the then existing situation. The facile pen was wielded by Christian Mueller and William Casper Schultz for nearly a year, when the enterprise was abandoned and the pursuit of converts concluded.

Freeport Tribun. - In the middle of March, 1859, William Massenberg began the publication of a German weekly called the Tribun, which sought to obtain a share of Republican patronage in Stephenson County. But, failing after a year's trial to command his expectations in that connection, the Tribun editor retired from the field of journalism.

In addition to the above, there was a number of miscellaneous papers which long since went out in failure, leaving no record of their contents or causes of demise.

Water Power

One the most valuable and inexhaustible adjuncts to the development of wealth in the city and county, and an auxiliary which, though not fully utilized, has become valuable as a source of revenue, not only to the owners of the riparian rights, but to those leasing the privilege, is the water-power. The early settlers about Pecatonica River appreciated the value of the power that could be diverted therefrom more sensibly than those who came at a later day, when steam had been applied to move the vast amounts of machinery, which in pioneer times, though limited, were dependent upon the turbine, or over shot wheel to propel them, than a succeeding generation, and adapted the same to their uses almost before the prairie soil was broken.

Late in 1845, or early in 1846, 0. H. Wright and E. S. Hanchett applied to the Legislature for an act of incorporation, chartering the Hydraulic and Manufacturing Company of Stephenson County. The capital stock was to consist of 200 shares, equally divided between Wright and Hanchett, and the prayer of petitioners to organize al«o sought legal authority to erect a dam on Pecatonica River at such point in Stephenson County as might, by petitioners, be thereafter selected.

Petitioners' prayers were granted, and, after some delay, the race was begun in 1847, under the supervision of John Lerch, a man named Jacob Zimmerman doing the work, however, and completing his job during the same year. The race then, as to-day, commenced at a point opposite the foot of Adams street, and runs eastwardly a distance of 900 feet, where the waters re-enter the river. The race is thus 900 feet long, about fifty feet wide and six feet deep, furnishing an inexhaustible supply of power, though at present being appropriated by but four patrons.

In 1848, Hanchett transferred o^e-fourth his interest in the venture to John Lerch, reserving 500 cubic inches of water for his own use, and one-quarter remaining to Charles Powell.

Prior to the completion of the race, Hanchett had erected a saw-mill on the present site of the Goddard flour mills. This was used as soon as water-power could be availed of to saw lumber for local use and transportation into adjoining counties, and so continued until the flour-mills were substituted in its stead, Mr. Hanchett being the operator until 1848, when he assigned the mill property, with his reserved title in the water-power, to D, A. Knowlton, who in turn sold the property thus acquired to Benjamin Goddard. In 1851, Mr. Goddard purchased the interest of Charles Powell, and now owns the franchise in conjunction with Webster & Rhodes in the proportion of five-eighths to threeeighths held by the latter.

The power is at present applied to the operating of Goddard's mill, Webster & Rhodes' mill, Emmert's manufactory and Stiles & Cd.'s machine shop, and is valued at $50,000.

Gas Works

Previous to 1855, the city was without gas facilities, and their absence, it is said, provoked no inconsiderable amount of complaint, which, to express it mildly, was emphatic, if not tinctured with a profane vernacular peculiar to disappointments and inconveniences. Freeport had, at that date, enjoyed municipal dignities for a period of five years, and the fact that the city was still dependent upon the primitive means of illumination employed when it was a village was the subject of critical comment.

During the latter part of 1854, the feasibility of establishing gas works in the city was generally discussed, and almost with the dawn of the new year these discussions took shape, culminating in obtaining a charter from the Legislature for the incorporation of a company, bearing date February 15, 1855. Further steps were taken in the premises, and on October 16 of the same year the organization was perfected by the election of T. J. Turner, President, E. H. Hyde, Treasurer, and Homer N. Hibbard, Secretary, with a capital stock of about $50,000.

During the same year, grounds for the buildings and other appurtenances were procured at the corner of Jackson and Liberty streets, and contracts for their erection concluded. These were completed early in 1856, and still stand on the very spot of their origin. The premises are 120 feet square, and contain the gasometer, forty feet in diameter, also the furnace house, supplied with nine retorts with a total capacity of 35,000 feet per diem, and cost, when delivered to the incorporators, an aggregate of |56,000.

The expenses incident to building were in part liquidated by the issue of bonds, to the amount of $20,000, on the 5th of February, 1856, maturing on January 1, 1861. Failure to pay the same at the date of maturity involved the corporation in litigation, which was concluded by the sale of the works, the bond-holders becoming the purchasers for a consideration of $13,000. After operating them for some years, the vendees finally disposed of their several interests in the venture to Thompson Dean, a capitalist of Cincinnati, who, in turn, sold to S. S. Ashcraft and Thomas Butterworth, about September 1, 1863. These gentlemen continued in charge until May 14, 1867, when the works were purchased by L. K. Scofield and C. S. Hill, of Freeport, paying therefor $23,626. On the 26th of July, 1871, Mr. Hill sold his interest to L. L. Munn, who operated the works, in conjunction with Mr. Scofield, until February 26, 1879. At that date, the latter gentleman transferred his title to L. Z. Farwell, who to-day owns the enterprise jointly with Mr. Munn.

The works are in constant operation, requiring the services of four hands, consuming 500 tons of coal annually, and are valued at $50,000. The manufacturers own six miles of mains, laid through the principal streets, can light forty street lamps, which are all as yet located, supply about 300 consumers, and charge from $3 to $3.50 per thousand feet.

The origin of this association is said to be due to a religious revival held in the city of Freeport during the winter of 1874-75. At one of the revival meetings, complaint was made that there was no place in town open to young men in the evenings, and a discussion resulted as to the means that would enable its absence to be supplied. After some preliminary canvass of the subject, it was decided to establish a library. A number of young men combined for that purpose, subscribed $10 each and rented and furnished a room for the purpose. When the scheme had gotten well under way, the Rev. Robert Collyer delivered his lecture on " Clear Grit " to further the undertaking. With the proceeds of Mr. C.'s contribution and $75 subscribed by citizens of Freeport, books were purchased, a room fitted up for their reception and the library formally opened on New Year's Day, 1875. During that year, the Hon. W. B. Fairfield (since deceased) and the Rev. E. E. Hall gave readings for the benefit of the venture, upon which $40 were realized, and Mr. Pells Manny donated $500. These sums are to day represented by the substantially bound copies of standard works, including Irving, Hawthorne, Thackeray, Scott, Dickens, George Eliot, DeQuincey, Goethe, Schiller and others, forming a library unto themselves.

The first year's experience was not so filled with encouragement as to cause the management to clap its individual hands with joy. It was not as generously patronized as its merits deserved ; many of the young men who had given their efibrts to the support of the enterprise removed from Freeport ; the current expenses were in excess of the income ; subscriptions were falling off, and a variety of causes combined against the library with such effect as to nearly accomplish its permanent retirement from active service. At this juncture, a number of gentlemen came to the relief of the managers, and, increasing the associate membership, postponed its demise, and, by their continued efforts in that behalf, prevented the occurrence of this calamity in the future.

During 1879, the library was permitted a local habitation in the office of Oscar Taylor, rent free, and a high degree of success attended the eff"ort3 made to secure subscribers. In 1880, a move was made to the third floor of Mc- Naraara's building, on Stephenson street, adjoining the opera house, where apartments were furnished particularly adapted to a library and reading room. The occupation of these premises is still maintained, and the " Freeport Library," which began in the most limited and unpretentious manner possible to be imagined, has grown in prominence, resources and influence.

The present officers, are : S. D. Atkins, President ; J. B. Taylor, Treasurer ; Charles D, Knowlton, Secretary, and W. L. Taylor, Librarian.

The catalogue contains a total of 850 volumes, exclusive of the magazines, exchanges and periodicals, to which access can be obtained for a nominal consideration, and the value of the property held by the association cannot be far from $2,000.

The First National Bank - Was duly organized February 24, 1864, with a capital stock of ,$50,000, and the following officers : George F. De Forest, President, and E. Mayer, Cashier; W. P. Malburn, L. L. Munn, 0. B. Bidwell, C. J. Fry, E. Mayer, George F. De Forest and L. F. Burrell, Board of Directors.

The bank is located in Munn's building, where it is engaged in the disposition of a large business, annually, with the following officers : 0. B. Bidwell, President, and George F. De Forest, Cashier ; 0. B. Bidwell, W, 0. Wright, G. F. De Forest, John Burrell, 0. B. Sanford, H. D. Cook and L. Z. Farwell, Board of Directors.

Under these favorable auspices the bank opened for business immediately upon its organization, in the Plymouth Block, corner of Stephenson and Van Buren streets, where it remained until the block was razed to give place to the opera house building, into which it was returned with the completion of that edifice, where it has since remained, in the enjoyment of a constantly increasing business, and generous confidence, illustrated by the fact, that the deposits, which at first were but slightly in excess of $100,000. have since increased to $250,000. The present officers are : John H. Addams, President ; Jacob Krohn, Acting Cashier ; A. H. Wise, Jacob Krohn, M. Lawver, John Kenegy, A. Reifsnider, D. Neidigh and Thompson Wilcoxon, Directors.

Stephenson County Bank - A private corporation, upward of a quarter of a century old, located at the corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, was established by James Mitchell in 1852, who, in conjunction with Holden Putnam, R. Richardson, of Boston, and A. Page, of Rutland, Vt., and conducted a prosperous business for many years, under the firm name of James Mitchell & Co. When the call for volunteers was published, Holden Putnam entered the service, and was killed at the battle of Lookout Mountain. This event caused a dissolution of the firm, Mr. Mitchell remaining sole owner until January 1, 1874, when J. W. Neff became a partner, and still remains in that capacity. Mr. Mitchell died in August, 1874, and the business was carried on by his heirs until September, 1876, at which date W. H. Mitchell, son of the deceased, took charge of the family interest in the bank and became a partner with Mr. Neff, which co-partnership still remains in existence, though business is done under the firm name of James Mitchell & Co.

The bank was organized May 20, 1876, with a nominal capital of $20,- 000, same to be increased as business required. During the years in which the institution has been operated, a very pronounced success has attended the labors of the firm, and the surplus profits have been added to the capital, which is now largely in excess of that originally invested.

Knoivlton Brothers. - Also private bankers, located at the corner of Exchange and Stephenson streets, was established in the fall of 1869, by the late D. A. Knowlton, one of the early settlers and wealthy men of Stephenson County, who associated his sons, D. A. Knowlton, Jr., and" C. D. Knowlton, with him, and conducted the bu.-?ines8 successfully to the day of his death, in the month of March, 1876. Thereafter, and up to the present time, decedent's sons and heirs have been carrying on the enterprise, under the firm name of Knowlton Brothers, employing a large capital and doing a correspondingly large business.

German Insurance Company

At a day in the history of Freeport, at present within the memory of those not included among the names of the proverbial oldest inhabitants, the city was known as the "Hartford of the West," from the presence of insurance companies born in the immediate vicinity, and apparently leading a prosperous existence. They were thick as lice in Egypt, to express it graphically, but many have met the fate allotted that pestiferous insect, which in ancient times infested men and beasts, when Pharaoh's heart was hardened. They have run the race set before them, and their corporate life has long since been rolled up like a scroll. This was due in some instances to bad management, in some instances to the preponderance in amount of liabilities over assets, in some instances also to the adoption by the Legislature of what is known as the law of 1869, the exacting provisions of which had a tendency to eliminate unsubstantial corporations, from among those rated as solvent, and to confine the business to a class of operators whose means were available at all times, and liable for the corporate obligation accepted in consideration of premiums paid for the benefit of the assured.

These companies began to be chartered as early as 1853, when the Stephenson County corporation was chartered. In 1857, the Farmers' was incorporated, with D. H. Sunderland, A. P. Long, John Burrell and J. S. Emmert at its head. This company is still in existence, but quiescent, as it were. The Putnam County Mutual, subsequently American, was removed to Chicago, in 1869, where it still lives. The Columbia, of Freeport, chartered February 20, 1861, survived its birth two years, and then departed from the scenes of active life. The Fire and Tornado, changed to the Continental, re-insured its risks in Chicago, and closed up. The State, chartered June 10, 1863; Citizens' Life, Citizens' Health, National, Relief, and Western World were all chartered in February, 1865, but declined business. The United States, chartered at the same time, succumbed, when the law of 1869 went into force; the Union two years previously, and the Mokena declined the privileges accorded it by the terms of its charter.

Probably the most celebrated among these were the Winnesheik and the Protection Life. The former was chartered February 18, 1861, and included among its stockholders B. F. Butler, Simon Cameron, J. Russell Jones, Perkins Bass, U. S. Grant, W. H. Bradley, N. Corwith, J. B. Brush and John A. Logan. From the date of its incorporation, it made rapid progress, and during its existence issued not less than 50,000 policies. At first, its business was mainly transacted on what is known as the mutual plan ; this lasted until January 1,*^ 1867, when it was changed to the stock plan, and so continued until the law of 1869 stepped in and claimed the company as its own, which claim was conceded without resistance or demurrer. The Protection Life operated in Freeport until March 7, 1867, when its base of supplies and distribution was removed to Chicago. After two years of apparently fruitful labors, the Protection Life, as will be remembered by most every resident of Stephenson County, was described as hanging upon the verge of ruin. This cheerful picture was at first disputed by friends of the corporation, but claimants insisted such was the case, and clamorously demanded an investigation. These demands were finally ordered, and the examination made resulted in the discovery of facts which were not thought to have existed before. The institution was reported as not only on the verge of ruin, but so hopelessly in that condition as that its recovery was a question of chance rather than possibility. The law was appealed to to unravel the skein of circumstances, and ascertain what had become of the premiums presumably to the credit of the assured, but thus far without results. A Receiver was appointed, and other things done that seemed proper and right, but thus far nothing has been born of the proceedings but trials, troubles and vexations of spirit.

The German was incorporated February 16, 1865, under the name and title of the " Freeport Insurance Company," by A. H. Stone, E. W. Coleman, W. J. McKim, A. M. Lawver and George P. Kingsley. On June 23, 1866, Louis Ahsendorif, Richard Meyer, William Massenberg and D. Keuhner purchased the charter and franchise of the Freeport company from A. P. Long, and the following board of officers was elected : L. AhsendorfiP, President ; William Massenberg, Vice President ; R. Meyer, Secretary, and D. Keuhner, Treasurer.

On the 13th of July of the same year, Mathias Hettinger was elected President in place of Mr. AhsendorflF, who resigned, and in the month of October following the first policy of insurance was issued. During the year ending October 31, 1867, 411 policies were issued. In the month of December of that year, Richard Meyer resigned the secretaryship, and F. Gund was elected in his stead, since when he has served continuously in that capacity.

The company does business in the following States : Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, and Dakota Territory, has over six hundred agencies, and its premium receipts at present run over $1^000 per day. During the twelve years of its existence the company has issued 94,309 policies, upon which premiums aggregating $1,332,521.63 have been received ; and paid losses amounting to $429,- 975.31. The capital stock is $200,000, divided into shares of $100 each, and, with a continuance of its present success, it will not be long before it will take rank among the wealthiest corporations in the country. To-day the interest receipts alone suffice to pay the regular annual dividends in addition to a large proportion of the expense incurred in its management.

The success of the company is due to the prudent and conservative manner in which the business has been conducted. The interests of the policyholder have been carefully guarded, and, in addition to being the heaviest taxpayer in Stephenson County, the German has contributed largely to the prosperity of Freeport.

The assets of the company exceed $600,000, and the present officers are : M. Hettinger, President ; J. Hoebel, Vice President ; C. 0. Collmann, Treasurer, and F. Gund. Secretary. H. Baier, C. Baumgarten, M. Bangasser, C. 0. Collmann, A. Collmann, J. Erfert. J. Forcha, D. Franz, M. Hettinger, E. Heller, J. Hoebel, B. Huenkmeyer, D. Kunz, D. B. Schulte and A. Voelkers. Board of Directors. The company's office is at the corner of Exchange and Bridge streets.

was organized on the 1st day of April, 1880, by E. T. Keim, of Dubugue, acting on behalf of the National Telephone Company, with a capital of $10,000, and the following officers : L. Z. Farwell, President"; W. G. Barnes, Vice President ;

On the 10th of June following, work was commenced, poles erected, lines placed, etc., which were completed and ready for operation about the 1st of July. The instruments used are of the Bell pattern with the Blake transmitter, and with the magnets, bells and material, was furnished by the Electrical Manufacturing Company of Chicago.

The company began operations with about twenty-five miles of lines, and fifty subscribers, and the promise of an increased list when the undertaking is finally established. The instruments are " placed " in stores, manufactories, etc., and kept in order for $4 per month, and in private residences for a less sum, say $36 per annum. The main office is at No. 107 Stephenson street, where an operator, line-man and a force necessary to conduct the business is employed.

Post Office

The early settlers of Stephenson County were denied the privileges and mail facilities to which their descendants are accustomed, and which are now regard as indispensable to their happiness.

The first mail delivered in the county was during the spring of 1836, when Thomas Craine was made the recipient of letters and papers addressed to those residing in Freeport and vicinity, from the Frink stages, which he carried to the addressed, making his way on foot, and collecting the tarifi" for services thus rendered. This was continued until a post office was established in Freeport, and an official appointed to discharge the duties incident thereto.

Along in 1837, the demand for increased postal conveniences, induced the Department to rent a small room on Galena street to supply this want, and B. R. Wilmot was appointed to take charge. His duties were far from exacting or onerous, as may be imagined, but the location of the premises afi"orded a "central point" for the inhabitants to congregate at, and to promulgate such news as was then available for distribution. Mr. Wilmot was maintained in his position until about 1842, when L. W. Guiteau became the object of executive confidence, and removed the ofiice to the corner of Galena and Exchange (now Galena avenue) streets, where the mail was daily received. He was followed by the Hon. Thomas J. Turner, who established the post office in his private residence, on Galena, between Van Buren and Chicago streets, where he.attended to his charge until December, 1843, when John Tyler appointed A. T. Green to succeed Mr. Turner. His base of operations was first at the corner of Van Buren and Galena streets, whence he removed to the corner of Chicago and Stephenson streets, remaining in charge until 1849. During the month of May of that year. President Fillmore nominated George Reitzell to succeed Mr. Green. The latter transferred the office immediately upon the confirmation of his successor, and retired to the lines of unofficial life. The office was again removed, this time to the corner of Van Buren and Stephenson streets, where it was retained during the incumbency of Mr. Reitzell.

In 1853, F. W. S. Brawley was made Postmaster by Franklin Pierce, and established the headquarters of the office at the corner of Exchange (now Galena avenue) and Bridge streets. Charles S. Bagg succeeded Mr. Brawley in 1858, and remained in office until 1861, when he was relieved by the appointment of C. K. Judson. During Mr. Bagg's term of office the postal department was located at the corner of Bridge and Chicago streets. Under the administration of Mr. Judson, as also a portion of that of Gen. S. D.

Atkins, who was appointed in 1865, the office was located on Chicago, between Stephenson and Galena streets, where it remained until its removal to the present site, corner of Van Buren and Bridge streets.

This last removal was accomplished after a contest by the owners of rival locations, who submitted proposals to the Department for its occupation by the oifer of premises owned by themselves. Capt. J. E. Stuart, Superintendent of Mails at Chicago, was sent here to decide upon a location, and examined the inducements offered by Mrs. Helena Beck, who proposed to lease premises at the corner of Chicago and Galena streets for $600 per annum ; by Horace Tarbox, for a lease of a portion of the Tarbox building, for $800 ; and those offered by Thompson Wilcoxon, for rooms back of the opera house, at an annual rental of $1,200 ; but, being unable to decide in the premises, the matter was referred to the Postmaster General, who, after some negotiation, decided to accept a subsequent offer made by Thompson Wilcoxon. That gentleman thereupon proceeded to erect the brick building at the corner of Galena and Bridge streets, which was completed in 1879, and taken possession of by the office in which it is now maintained and will remain during the continuance of the lease, which was made for a period of four years from the date of possession, without consideration.

The present officers are : Smith D. Atkins, Postmaster ; T. S. Gemmill, Assistant ; A. S. Wurts, Money Order Clerk ; 0. P. McCool, Mail Clerk, and Otto L. Schulte, Delivery Clerk.

Freeport Cemetery

To the west of Freeport and yet upon its confines, at the further end of Lincoln avenue, lies the city cemetery. The drive to its location is through pleasant shaded avenues, and the cemetery itself, with its improvements and ornaments, touches the landscape, presenting an appearance of beauty and symmetry exquisite beyond comparison.

The first cemetery established was that located along in 1838-39, at the foot of what subsequently was laid out as Summit street, between the foot of Adams street and the Cedarville bridge. This remained as a resting-place for the dead until the fall of 1852, when, the two acres comprehended in the territory allotted to burial purposes becoming too small in consequence of the unprecedented mortality caused by the cholera that year, another location was determined upon. The selection then made embraced a piece of 10 acres, purchased of Temperance Foley, for $T00, still used, and fronting on Lincoln avenue. After a time, this, too, required enlargement, and on April 13, 1878, fifteen additional acres were purchased in the same plat of land for a consideration of $2,250, which has since been surveyed and laid out into eighty blocks of fourteen lots each, which command ready sale at from $10 to $25 apiece.

The grounds are gently rolling, constituting a fine natural site, without inequalities of surface, the lawns planted with forest and ornamental trees, flowers, etc., calculated to gratify the eye, kindle the imagination and fill the heart of all with pleasant thoughts.

The grounds are in the care of a sexton, who is employed by the City Council, which administers the trust, makes title to lots conveyed, and is responsible for keeping the grounds in order and repair.

The city contains two parks of measured dimensions and limited attractions. One is located on Williams street, fronting 200 feet on that thoroughfare, extending thence 300 feet to Mary street. This property was donated by 0. H. Wright and Judge Purinton, but beyond fencing the same, erecting a music stand and the distribution of benches, the city has done little to establish its title. The other park consists of about one acre of ground on Locust, between Pleasant and Broadway streets, donated by D. A. Knowlton. Both parks might be made delightful resorts, and, no doubt, will in time be measurably improved by the city authorities.

Wilcoxon Opera House

When Plymouth Block, at the corner of Van Buren and Stephenson streets, was first erected, early in the fifties, the citizens of Freeport felicitated themselves and their city on the possession of this at that time remarkable result of the architects' and mechanics' combinations. Plymouth Block served the purposes for which it was erected, having in the mean time come into the possession of Thompson Wilcoxon, until the winter of 1868, when it was torn down, its site yielding place to the handsome edifice known to-day as the Wilcoxon Opera House. In the spring of 1869, the foundations were laid and the building completed entire during the following fall. The premises are built of brick and stone, having a frontage of sixty-six feet on Stephenson street by seventy-seven feet on Van Buren street, and are in all respects complete and desirable. They were built from plans furnished by Kinney & iVdler, architects of Chicago, and nothing was left undone that would contribute either to the elegance or substantiality of the work. The basement is occupied as the composing and editorial rooms of the Eei'ald, the first floor by the First National Bank and commodious stores, the second floor by offices, while the third and fourth stories are devoted to the occupation of the Opera House auditorium. This is 60x50, supplied with a stage, furnished with appropriate machinery, equipments, etc., and is the " base of operations " for the musical and dramatic artists visiting Freeport. The interior of the auditorium is handsomely frescoed and otherwise adorned, and, with the gallery, will comfortably seat an audience of 800. In appearance, the building is one of the most attractive on the main street, occupying an elevated site and attracting many expressions of admiration from citizens and strangers. The property is valued at $50,000.

One of the prominent and handsomely finished buildings of Freeport stands at the corner of Stephenson and Van Buren streets, on the site of the old Pennsylvania House, a hotel identified with the earlier history of the city, now located two squares west on Stephenson street. Munn's building was commenced in 1862, and completed during the fall of that year, after plans furnished by the same architect who designed the Opera House and First Presbyterian Church. It is built of brick, with a marble front on Stephenson street, three stories high, 41|x90, and was finished ready for use at an outlay of $25,000. The first floor is rented by the First National Bank, the second story being devoted to ofiices, and the third floor entire is occupied by the Odd Fellows.

While the building was in progress of construction, the Masonic Order, which at that time occupied inconvenient quarters elsewhere, secured a lease of the third floor for society purposes, and the same was completed by Mr. Munn for their special accommodation. The Masons accordingly took possession, which they held for a term of ten years, but, when the order of the Scottish Rite was instituted, the hall was found to be too contracted, and removed to Fry's Opera House, where it has since remained.

One of the most prominent and imposing improvements in the city is located at the corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, where it was erected, in 1865, by C. J. Fry, at a cost of $44,000.

During the spring of 1864, Mr. Fry determined to erect the building, for which ground was broken on the 5th of July of that year, and the foundations laid during that month. When these were completed, the superstructure went up, the same being built according to plans furnished by 0. B. Wheelock, a Chicago architect, and the entire fall occupied in its erection. It was under roof by winter, and opened to public uses in January, 1865. The main building is 63^x90, three stories high, with an addition two stories in height, 30x40, both constructed of brick, and a decided ornament to the city. The first floor is used for stores, the second for oflSces, and the third story is appropriated to Masonic occupation.

Originally, the upper story was devoted to hall purposes, and was one of the finest in this portion of the State. But, in January, 1871, the Masons secured a lease of the premises, and where once audiences were edified with Shakespearean revivals, the festive goat and attendant concomitants of Masonic mystery are maintained.

Brewster House

This hotel, located on the corner of Stephenson and Mechanic streets, was erected in the years 1856-57. The enterprise was first decided upon in March of the former year, during which the foundations were laid and the undertaking practically commenced by J. K. Brewster, an old resident of Stephenson County. On the 4th of December following, the building was inclosed, and when completed, was rented for a term of years to Sinclair & Baker. On Tuesday, August 27, the hotel was formally opened, and twenty-nine names entered upon the register of arrivals. The opening festival occurred on September 2, when the house was crowded with guests ; the Great Western Band furnished the music; the Hon. M. P. Sweet, the Rev. Dr. Sunderland and others, delivered addresses, and a general rejoicing was indulged.

In time, Mr. Lyon succeeded to Mr. Sinclair's interest, and the firm changed to Lyon & Baker, so continuing one year, when Clark & Ferris took possession and remained in charge two years. In 1861, J. W. Humphrey took charge, and was followed by Corbin Brothers in 1864, and then S. Speer in 1865. In less than a year the latter disposed of his interest, and the house remained vacant until the spring of 1866. At that date a Mr. Howard, from Portland, Me., assumed the management, changed the name to the " Howard House," and remained for several years. J. F. Belcher acted in the capacity of Boniface until about 1870, when the house was closed for one year. At the expiration of that period, J. S. Gates and C. C. Burton assumed charge, their partnership continuing a year, when J. S. Gates became sole owner, and still continues.

The building is four stories high, sixty feet front on Stephenson by 155 on Mechanic street, constructed of brick with iron window-caps and sills, and balcony in front. The main entrance is on Stephenson street, opening into the oflSce. On the second floor is located the parlors, dining-room and samplerooms, while the third and fourth floors are devoted to the accommodation of guests, 250 of whom can be comfortably disposed of.

The original cost of the building was $75,000, but since its completion the edifice has been altered and improved at a large expense,?and, while it is today in perfect order, the investment is quoted at about |40,000.

Taylor'S Driving Park

comprehending an area of eighty acres to the east of the city, and is owned by John B. Taylor. Along in 1873, Mr. Taylor, appreciating the needs of horsemen in the vicinity, and the valuable adjunct it would prove to Freeport, purchased the land, since occupied as a driving park, for that purpose. He at once began to improve the track, and expended large sums for that purpose, annually, from 1873 to 1877. These include fencings, accommodations for stock, clubhouses, stands, etc., and what is pronounced, by those competent to judge, the fastest and most elastic track in the country. It was surveyed, constructed and laid out under the direction of L. Stanton, is 100 feet wide, and 5,280 feet to an inch, or a full mile in length, supplied with every convenience and security for fast time, and has, until recently, been patronized by the most prominent trackmen in America.

The track proper, with stables for stock, was completed in 1874, and during that year a season of races was given under the auspices of the Freeport Driving Park Association, with premiums to be contested for aggregating $10,000. The occasion attracted an immense field of horses, including such famous racers as Bodine, Pilot Temple, Amy B., Young Wilkes, Observer, Whalebone, Wolford Z., etc., as also a large attendance who witnessed the winner in " free-for-all " cross the score in 2: 24| at that time remarkable speed. The success of the meeting was so gratifying that a series was decided upon for the following year, which were held in June, August and October, at which premiums amounting to $15,000 were distributed. The success of these were not 80 liberal as that of 1874, yet the association ventured one more series, the same taking place in May and August, 1876. The meeting held in August is known as the " Centennial meeting," and was attended with circumstances so remarkable, that they are frequently quoted by horsemen to-day. At that gathering there were 147 horses entered, the largest number entered for races in the annals of the turf. On the second day of the meeting, in the race for horses with no record below 2 : 33, there were twenty-two entries, of which twelve started, and eight horses made a record. It required ten heats to decide the contest, which was finally awarded to Monarch Rule, with Sophie Temple second, Billy O'Neil third, and Ed Wilder fourth. The time made was 2 : 31, 2 : 291, 2 : 32, 2 : 29, 2 : 36, 2 : 34, 2 : 31i and 2 : 33^, with one dead heat.

In 1877-78, the State Fair was held on these grounds, and in 1878 the last race meeting was held, the patronage not being sufficiently generous, it is claimed, to justify the expense incurred at the meetings. The property is valued at $75,000, and owned solely by Mr. Taylor.

The First Presbyterian Ohurch of Freeport is claimed as not only the first church fully organized and officered for labor in the city, but also in Stephenson County. The Methodist brethren, it was admitted, had formed a class, but nothing like a distinct church was established until 1842, when the First Presbyterian was formed and started out on its mission of love. A meeting was held on the 24th of November of that year, at which the Rev. Calvin Waterbury presided as Moderator, Samuel Spencer ofticiating as Clerk, and a resolution adopted setting forth the confession of faith in the form and government of the Presbyterian Church of the United States of those present, which included Philip Reitzell, Mrs. Mary Reitzell, Orestes H. Wright, Mrs. Emmaretta Henderson, Mr. and Mrs. A. W. Lucas, Mrs. Elizabeth Lucas, Mrs. Sarah Young, Ashael W. Rice, Mrs. Nancy Rice, Orrin B. Munn, Mrs. Jane L. Wright, Samuel Spencer and Mrs. Elizabeth Spencer. The Rev. Calvin Waterbury was installed as minister, at an annual salary of $400, and with a congregation of fourteen members, rich in faith and confessions. During his ministry, Avorship was held in the court house, but the growing wants of the church demanded a regular place of meeting, and two lots were secured at the southeast corner of Walnut and Stephenson streets - one donated by Kirkpatrick & Baker, and the other purchased for |40. A subscription for a church edifice of brick and stone, 40x65, to cost $460, was undertaken and secured. The stone fcr the foundation and basement was quarried across the river and drawn to the spot by an ox team driven by L. L. Munn, the wood timbers were procured in the neighborhood, and work commenced ; but, notwithstanding the labor and self-denial exercised, work was suspended long before the edifice was completed, leaving a debt of $200 unprovided for. The minister resigned, and fifteen members of the congregation retired. This was the darkest hour of the church's history, which, however, survived the impending calamities, and grew strong amid the adversities with which it seemed to be surrounded. The Rev. J. C. Downer was called to take charge, the church was completed during the year 1851, and accessions were annually made to the number of members.

The old church was thereafter occupied continuously, and a gratifying success attended the labors of the congregation. In 1866, it was decided to erect a new church on the opposite corner of Walnut and Stephenson streets, and on September 7 of that year the corner-stone was laid with appropriate ceremonies. This edifice, which is of stone, contains, beside the main audience-room, a beautiful Sunday-school room, parlor, kitchen and library rooms, is an ornament to the city and a credit to the sect. It was completed and dedicated October 31, 1867, Prof. F. W. Fiske, of Chicago, preaching the sermon, the Rev. J. W. Cunningham offering the dedicatory prayer. In the evening of the same day, the Rev. Isaac E. Carey was installed as Pastor, the sermon being preached by the Rev. C. A. Williams, of Rockford, the charge to the Pastor being given by the Rev. A. Kent, of Galena, and that to the people by the Rev. C. Marsh, of

Mount Carroll. The church cost complete ^50,000, and on the day when dedicated $17,000 was raised by subscription to cover the debt incurred in its building.

The church has enjoyed several seasons of revival. The first, a powerful work of God in the winter of 1850-51, added greatly to its numerical and spiritual strength, bringing into its fold some who have been among its most efficient and valuable members, and some who have gone forth from it to shine as lights of the world. The second occurred in the spring of 1857, and was confined mainly to the Sunday school, resulting in the conversion of ten or twelve of the older pupils, all of whom have continued " steadfast and immovable," and one of whom has since been prepared for the ministry. The third occurred at the beginning of 186-4, at which thirty were added to the church ; the fourth in 1867, and others at stated periods since. There have been connected with the church from the beginning between 500 and 1,000 persons, many of whom have been received on examination.

The first Sunday school in connection with the church was organized in 1844, with John Rice as Superintendent and teacher, and consisted of eleven pupils. It is now large and prosperous.

The following ministers have officiated since the church was organized : The Revs. C. Waterbury, J. C. Downer, Isaac E. Carey, B. Van Zandt, and H. D. Jenkins, the present incumbent.

Second Presbyterian. - About the year 1847, a petition to the Presbytery of Rock River, Old School, was prepared in Stephenson County, praying for the organization of a Second Presbyterian Church and signed by fifty-three persons. A public meeting, largely attended, was held in the old court house, and a commissioner appointed to carry the petition to the Presbytery, which met in September of that year, at Princeton.

This Presbytery at that time embraced the whole of Northern Illinois, and had a membership of 304. They received the commissioner and appointed the Revs. Ithamer Pillsbury, Samuel Cleland, and Elder C. A. Spring as a committee to visit Freeport and organize the church. They reached Freeport October 30, 1847, where they found fifteen members who had withdrawn from the First Church and twelve others who held certificates from Eastern churches, ready to enter into a new organization. These were formally constituted as the Second Presbyterian Church of Freeport, by the election, ordination and installation of three Elders, viz., A. H. Kerr, Samuel Dickey and James W. Barber, and the following members : Mrs. Samuel Dickey, Mrs. James W. Barber, James T . Smith and wife, Joseph F. McKibben and wife, John Van Dyke and wife, Robert Badger and wife, William Lamb and wife, Samuel Lamb and wife, Samuel Milliken and wife, Mrs. Jane McKibben, Mrs. Jane D. Lamb, Misses Phoebe and Martha Dickey, James Brown and wife, and William Johnson.

From the date of the organization no services were had until the spring of 1848, and then only for a few Sabbaths, during which eight persons were received into the communion of the church. In July of the same year, the Rev. John Ustick accepted a call and preached as stated supply for twentytwo months. On January 5, 1850, the interests of the congregation imperatively demanded the erection of a house of worship, and David Nesbit, John Barfoot, with James W. Barber, were appointed a building committee. Late in the fall of that year, the present church, corner of Exchange and Pleasant streets, was commenced, and during the following summer completed. The lecture-room was first used for worship the first Sabbath in September, 1851, the audience room not being formally occupied and dedicated until 1854. The entire cost of the building, which is of brick, neatly furnished and supplied with an organ, was about ^6,000, which, with the exception of $900 received from abroad, was subscribed by the congregation.

This church will have been organized thirty-three years on the 30th of October, 1880, during which time ten ministers have occupied the pulpit, and upward of seven hundred members have been included on the roster. It has enjoyed, during its existence, five revival seasons, and several churches have been organized in the surrounding country, being in a great measure the result and outgrowth of the labors, and largely supplied with members, from the Second Church.

A Sabbath school was organized in 1850, and has always kept pace with the church in progress and growth, a right hand to her in the work of saving souls.

The influence of the church upon the community at large has always been of a pronounced religious character, and of a high order. Both ministers and people have ever maintained a high standard of reverence for the purity and sanctity of the Sabbath, for worship, morals, temperance, law, justice and order. The blessings of God have descended on pulpit and pew, sustaining each others, hands, encouraging each other's hearts, and pointing the way to the heavenly Jerusalem, where abide peace and joy.

The following is the roster of ministers who have filled the pulpit since the church was established : The Revs. John Ustick, James Carroll, A. H. Lackey, P. B. Marr, D. M. Barber, Robert Proctor, W. J. Johnstone, B. Roberts, George Elliott, and John Gifi"en, at present in the service.

Third Presbyterian Church - Is composed of Germans, and was organized in 1867, with a congregation of fifteen members, under the charge of the Rev. John Vanderlass. The old court house, which had served so many religious bodies before the several denominations had secured edifices of their own, protected the German Presbyterians for one year, during which the number attending gradually increased.

In 1868, the present church edifice, at the corner of Exchange and Prospect streets, was completed and taken possession of. It is of frame, 56x34, with a seating capacity of 250, and cost, with the parsonage adjoining, a total of 14,500.

The Rev. Mr. Vanderlass remained in charge for a period of three years, when he was succeeded by the Rev. E. A. Elfeld, who remained until September, 1879, when he retired. From that date until July 1, 1880, the church was without a Pastor, but, on that date, the Rev. C. Buettle accepted charge, and still remains the incumbent.

First Methodist Church. - The first Methodist minister who ever preached in Stephenson County was the Rev. James McKean, who came here as a traveling minister in 1834, when he was riding a circuit of 500 miles. Gathering the representatives of two families residing in the western part of the county, he held services and delivered an address, the only one delivered that year.

In 1836, the Rev. Thomas W. Pope was sent to Stephenson County as a missionary, but held no services. The following year, Mr. McKean returned, and remained two years. During his stay classes were organized at Waddams Grove, Lena, Silver Creek and Freeport. He was a man possessed of much energy and perseverance, and the results of his labors are visible to-day. He was succeeded by the Rev. Samuel Pillsbury, who came in 1839, and, with the assistance of E. P. Wood and Rollin Brown, traveled an extended circuit. During 1841, the interests of the Methodist denomination were cared for by the Revs. Richard A. Blanchard and Alfred M. Early, who were sent hither for that purpose. Their work extended from Rockton to Apple River, and from Savannah to beyond the Wisconsin line. The next year, Mr. McKeau returned once more, remaining until 1843, when the Rev. C. G. Worthington, assisted by W. B. Cooley,-was assigned to the charge, and remained until the Revs. S. Whipple and Bishop succeeded. These latter continued two years, and from that time until 1850 the Revs. Robert Beatty, John Sharp and C. W. Batchelder presided.

The circuit tra^veled by these pioneer laborers in the vineyard varied somewhat from year to year, but included the county of Stephenson, with portions of Carroll and Jo Daviess.

The present generation can never realize the privations to which the ministers of those days were subjected, traveling day and night to meet their engagements and enduring hardships no pen can describe. But these trials, with others, rather increased their zeal in the cause wherein they labored. There were no stately edifices with wealthy and fashionable congregations in the days hereof spoken ; the worshipers assembled in private houses, or in sparsely-furnished schoolrooms, and listened to the Gospel as it was there and then proclaimed. Though they worshiped under unfavorable auspices, their zeal and fervor were such as would put to shame the lethargy visible among Christians of to-day.

In 1850, Freeport was organized into a separate charge, with a total membership of seven, under the pastorate of the Rev. John F. Devore. Nothing had been done up to this time toward building a house of worship. Services were held in the little red schoolhouse not far from the court house, at private houses and at rare intervals in the court house. Mr. Devore was an enthusiastic worker, and soon after his settlement in Freeport, inaugurated a series of revival meetings, which were attended with an abundant success, and impressed the necessity of building a church. Accordingly, the lot now occupied by the church was purchased and preparations at once made for the erection of a permanent house of worship. This was built by subscription, the members in Freeport contributing to their utmost, and farmers throughout the county, irrespective of denomination, donating both money and materials. Mr. Devore, so earnest was that gentleman in his desire for the completion of the work, assisted in hauling the materials, borrowing from a farmer an ox team and wagon for the purpose. In the summer of 1851, the church was inclosed and the basement completed, the absence of pews being supplied by the contributions of individuals. The cost of the structure thus far had been about $2,000, all being paid in labor and materials, save $500 in money. The dedicatory sermon was preached by Presiding Elder Richard Haney, it is said, though others maintain that the Rev. D. W. Pinckney officiated.

The labors of Mr. Devore were concluded in 1852, when the Rev. 0. 0. Best was assigned to succeed him. During his stay, worship was had in the basement of the church, the completion of the edifice being postponed until 1853, when the Rev. H. Whipple became the incumbent. In that year labors on the edifice were resumed, and its dedication celebrated in 1855, the Rev. Silas Boales preaching the sermon in place of Dr. Hinman, who had accepted an invitation for that purpose, but died before the day appointed for the services to be held. Mr. Whipple was followed by the Reva. C. M. Woodruff in 1855 ; Miles L. Reed in 1856 ; Thomas North in 1857 ; J. C. Stoughton, David Teed, W. F. Stewart and J. L. Olmstead, during whose several administrations the cause flourished and revival meetings and other efforts secured large additions to the congregation.

In 1868, Joseph Wardell was sent to Freeport as a missionary, where his labors were attended with marked success. These labors were suspended during 1864, but in 1865 Robert McCutcheon renewed the missionary work and organized the Embury Church, taking with him a membership of sixty from the First Methodist. A church was subsequently built by the new charge, costing $24,000, of which $13,700 were subscribed on the day of dedication, upon which occasion the Rev. R. M. Hatfield preached.

In 1864, the Rev. W. C. Willing began his three years .labors in Freeport. During the first winter of his pastorate, the congregation was measurably increased through an extended revival, and it became necessary to enlarge the church. This was completed in 1865, at a cost of $13,000, and its re-dedication celebrated during the fall of the same year ; while these repairs were in progress, the congregation worshiped in Plymouth Hall.

In 1867, the Rev. F. P. Cleveland accepted charge, and during his administration the present parsonage was purchased for $3,500. In 1870, $800 were expended in repairing and re-frescoing the church, and the Rev. W. A. Smith occupied the pulpit, remaining until 1873, when the Rev. Mr. Cleveland returned, who continued in his labors three years, followed by the Revs. S. A. W. Jewett and C. E. Mandeville, the latter being at present in charge.

Embury Methodist Church - Named for the first Methodist minister in America, is located on Exchange street, south of Williams ; was organized in the fall of 1864, by members of the sect residing in the southern part of the city, who had previously acknowledged allegiance to the First Church. These consisted of the Rev. F. C. Winslow, the Rev. Mr. McCutcheon and wife, Hollis Jewell and wife, John Barnes and wife, Joseph Carey and wife, the Rev. Joseph Best and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Abraham German, William Sells, Mrs, Secrist, Mrs. J. H. Staver, Mrs. Naylor, Cornelius Furst and George Swentzell. Ten of the congregation subscribed $1,000 each for the purchase of a lot and building the church, and, on Thursday, June 30, 1866, the corner-stone of the present edifice was laid, at the northwest angle of the main tower, in the presence of a considerable attendance, and with the following exercises: An appropriate hymn was sung by the congregation, after which prayer was offered by the Rev. R. A. Blanchard, who also read the Ritual ; the Scripture lesson was read by the Rev. W. C. Willing, followed by the Rev. J. F. Yates, of Galena, in an address, when the usual mementoes were placed, including a copy of the Bible, Methodist Hymn-Book, Discipline of the M. E. Church, Minutes of the Rock River Conference, statement of the organization and history of the church, list of builders of the edifice. Declaration of Independence, Constitution of the United States, and several States, copies of the local and State newspapers, specimens of national coin, etc., after which the stone was placed in position, and the audience dismissed with the benediction.

The building, which was pushed to completion rapidly, is 64x100, built of brick, with stone facings, the interior handsomely decorated, surmounted with two towers, and presenting an appearance both attractive and substantial.

It was dedicated in September of the same year, the Revs. J. H. Yates and S. A. W. Jewett officiating, and cost ^24,000, the balance of which amount unprovided for was subscribed on the day of its dedication.

The church is free to all who see fit to avail themselves of the privilege of attending, the labors of its ministry and congregation being chiefly among the poor and needy, with whom it stands very high.

The following is a list of the ministers who have filled the pulpit to the present date : The Revs. J. Reeves, Mr. McCutcheon, F. A. Read, F. A. Harden. Hooper Crews, Isaac Springer, G. S. Young and Sanford Washburn.

First Free Methodist Qhurch - Has been in existence in Freeport for many years, though quiescent from 1865 to 1877, when the congregation was re-organized, and consisted of the following members : Ferry Crowden and wife, Jacob Mease and wife, and David Moon. The Rev. J. Buss accepted the charge, and, aided by this limited assistance, revived the church. Services were held at first in convenient halls and elsewhere, until the latter part of 1877, when the church edifice on Exchange street, now in use, was completed, at a cost of $1,000, dedicated and taken possession of.

In 1878 a revival was experienced in the circuit in which the congregation is included, conducted by the Revs. W. F. Manly and A. F. Ferris, through whose labors ninety-one were converted and additions made to the congregation, which now numbers forty members.

The church edifice is of frame, 28x40, capable of accommodating 250, and the organization is considered as prosperous, with the promise of a greater success in the future.

German M. E. Church. - To the Rev. H. Vosholl is due the credit of establishing this church. During the early days of Freeport there resided in the future city and throughout the county a large number of Germans who had embraced the religion of John Wesley, and labored for the advancement of the cause, as defined by his statutes. The absence of a minister was found to be a serious inconvenience to the cause, and to supply this absence the Rev. Mr. VoshoU was appointed a missionary and assigned to Freeport, where he arrived on the 3d of October, 1854. Soon after he reached the then village, he collected a congregation and worshiped in the basement of the First Methodist Church, while there raising funds and completing arrangements for the erection of the present church edifice, corner of Chicago and Spring streets. This was in time completed at a cost of $1,500, and taken possession of by the congregation, since when it has prospered though not strong in numbers, in consequence of the continual drafts made thereon by reason of removals, and to aid in the formation of other congregations, six distributed in the county, having sprung from the Freeport mission.

The congregation now numbers about fifty worshipers; the church property is valued at $1,800, and the following Pastors have served since the church was established: The Revs. H. Vosholl. H. Richter, R. TiUmann, CHoll, Charles Scheuler, Jr., George Haas, E. R. Irmsher, B. Becker, E. J. Funk, F. Schmidt, A. Brenner and G. E. Hiller.

The Baptist Church. - The First Baptist Church of Freeport, 111., was organized in December, 1845, in the kitchen, or the one living room of the family of Rev. James Schofield, who was acting under the commission of the American Baptist Home Missionary Society. Twenty-six persons united in this organization. Their names are as follows: Rev. James Schofield and his wife Caroline, his son, John M. Schofield, and his daughter Caroline (now Mrs- H. H. Wise), Robert Schofield and his wife Mary; Mrs. Catharine Jones and her daughter, Elizabeth Jones; Thomas Stacks and wife, son and daughter; J. R. Stout and wife; John Stout and wife; Timothy Stout and wife; James Craft and wife ; William Perkins and wife ; Andrew Platner and wife ; Dexter A. Knowlton and Royal Durfee.

Rev. James Schofield was chosen Pastor of the little church. The following year a lot was secured where the German Catholic Church now stands, and steps were taken to build a house of worship. Money being scarce at that time in the country, subscriptions were taken for labor, and the various materials needed in its construction. The Pastor made great sacrifices, and labored with his hands in preparing the timber for the frame of the building and in its erection. After gi-eat exertions, he succeeded in raising money sufficient to buy boards and shingles in Chicago. These were marked by the Pastor, every board and plank and bunch of shingles bearing the inscription, " For the Baptist Church of Freeport." As the railroad only extended eighteen miles, it was necessary that they should be hauled on wagons by those who carried their grain to Chicago. As many would overload their teams, they found it necessary, when they came to bad roads, to partially unload. In this way the lumber was found all the way from Freeport to the railroad terminus. But, on account of the care of the good Elder in marking his lumber, and the honesty of the people along the route, at last every board and bunch of shingles reached its destination. The church having been completed, was dedicated December 25, 1850. The first Board of Trustees was elected March 4, 1848, and consisted of James Schofield, Alfred Dan, Joshua Springer, Job Arnold and John Montelius.

Elder Schofield labored faithfully as Pastor till the close of the year 1851, when he resigned on account of ill health, and was succeeded by Rev. T. L. Breckenbridge. The church had increased under its first Pastor, so that it numbered about one hundred members at the close of his ministry with them. While their house was being built the church met for a time for services in the court house, taking their turn with the Presbyterian and Methodist Churches. Afterward they met for worship in the brick schoolhouse in Knowlton's Addition. Some sixty persons united with the church under the pastorate of Mr. Breckenbridge, who continued one year. Rev. Thomas Reese was his successor, who served the church two years. Between one and two years the church had no Pastor and no regular services, no prayer-meeting, nor Sunday school.

October 1, 1855, Rev. 0. D. Taylor assumed the pastorate and gathered the scattered members. By the addition of Baptists who had moved into the town, the church felt nble again to sustain public worship. After a useful pastorate of two years, he closed his labors with the church. Rev. A. G. Thomas was chosen Pastor, and entered upon his work in February, 1858. He had graduated the July previous, from the Rochester Theological Seminary, and was ordained in April following. After a short pastorate of fifteen months he resigned, and was succeeded by Rev. N. F. Ravlin, whose pastorate continued between two and three years; he resigned July 8, 1861. In the following, November, Rev. William Crowell, D. D., was called to the pastorate, and continued in that relation until July 1, 1865. In 1862, the old church building was sold and a lot purchased of Robert McConnell, on Stephenson street, on which a chapel was built and dedicated, in February, 1863. Rev. A. W. Lancey was chosen Pastor, October 1, 1866. Mr. Lancey was an attractive preacher, and succeeded in gathering a good congregation ; about seventy persons united with the church the first year of his ministry. He was compelled to resign by his failing health, and was succeeded by Rev. C. W. Palmer, who served only one year. After the close of his pastorate, nearly two years elapsed before another Pastor was settled, the church being served occasionally by supplies. The Sunday school and covenant meeting were sustained during this interregnum. Rev. S. 13. Gilbert accepted the unanimous call of the church given him October 1, 1871, and served the church until May 1, 1874, leaving the church in an efficient condition, but with a membership of only about 100. During the summer of that year, the chapel was enlarged, painted and frescoed, at an expense of $1,200, and was opened again for worship, September 1, at which time Rev. W. H. Dorward commenced his pastoral work. The church was greatly prospered for one year, receiving about fifty members by baptism and letter, with bright anticipations for the future. But these bright prospects were darkened by the partial destruction of their chapel by fire, Sunday morning, December 26, 1875. Almost paralyzed by this calamity, by seeing their beautiful house in flames, they soon recovered from their despondency, and at a meeting held that same evening, at the house of J. M. Bailey, it was resolved to build a suitable church edifice. A committee was appointed to secure plans and to solicit subscriptions. The work of erection began in the following June. The house was so far completed that in the following November the basement was ready for occupancy. While the church was engaged in building, the congregation worshiped in the lecture room of the First Presbyterian Church, which was generously offered for that purpose. Mr. Dorward closed his pastorate July 1, 1878. He was succeeded, November 15, of the same year, by Rev. D. H. Cooley, D. D. Soon after his settlement, the work of completing the main audience room was begun under the efficient leadership of Robert Schofield, one of the constituent members of the church, and brother of its first Pastor. Mr. Schofield had removed his membership many years before, and was largely instrumental in organizing and sustaining the Harlem and Florence Baptist Church, which at one time numbered seventy members. That church having disbanded and many of its members having united with the church at Freeport, after his removal to this city the importance of finishing the house of worship and removing its indebtedness, led him to off"er a large personal subscription and his services in raising the amount required. The church and friends, inspired by his example and spirit, were willing to make great sacrifices to accomplish these desirable objects. The church edifice was dedicated June 29, 1879. Sermons were preached by Rev. G. Anderson, D. D., President of the University of Chicago, and Rev. G. W. Northrup, D. D., President of the Union Theological Seminary at Morgan Park. Pastors of neighboring churches were present, and assisted in the services. The church property is valued at $18,000, and free from debt. The present membership is about 200. An efficient Sunday school is maintained, with over 260 on the roll-call and an average attendance of 150. Rev. D. H. Cooley, D. D., is Pastor, and the church is prospering under his ministry. Trustees, Thomas French, J. M. Bailey, A. H. Wise, E. B. Winger and A. W. Ford. Robert C. Schofield, Treasurer. J. H. Stearns, Assistant Treasurer.

Zion Episcopal Church - Located at the corner of Cherry and Stephenson streets, was erected in 1852, and consecrated on the 16th of February, 1853, by Bishop Whitehouse, assisted by the Revs. Messrs. McKeown, of Elgin, Benedict, of Galena, and Bentley, the Pastor.

- From general rumor, it is believed that the church edifice was blown down and totally destroyed in a perfect tornado, which occurred on the 18th of July,

1861, entailing serious loss, and necessitating the procuration of an audienceroom for worship until the damage inflicted could be repaired.

The church was rebuilt in time, and has since been occupied as a sanctuary, where the Episcopal congregation of Freeport and vicinity worship weekly.

The present congregation numbers seventy-three communicants, under the pastorate of the Rev. R. F. Sweet, B. D. The value of church property, as also other data in connection with the association, could not be obtained.

The early records of this congregation being missing, and the Pastor being unable to furnish any information regarding its growth and labors, the same are not submitted.

St. Mark's Roman Catholic Church. - The Rev. John Cavanagh was Pastor of the Catholic Church at New Dublin in 1848. In that year his brotherin-law, Thomas Eagan, and his brother, Edward Cavanagh, with their families, settled in Freeport. Other Catholics soon gathered around them ; and Father Cavanagh visited them occasionally.

Mr. Eagan purchased for $125 the lot upon which the Hon. E. L. Cronkrite's store now stands, and built on it a two-story brick dwelling. In that house mass was celebrated for the first time in Freeport. Mrs. Eagan felt very happy in being able to accommodate her worthy Rev. brother when making zealous efforts to promote the spiritual welfare of the few Catholics then in Freeport. A room on the second floor of her house was set apart as a chapel, wherein he gathered around him, at reasonable intervals, for more than two years, the growing elements of the congregation soon afterward known as St. Mary's. After the rising congregation had become too numerous to assemble with comfort, or even with safety, in the chapel so cheerfully and so generously kept open for their benefit, the use of a public hall was procured to serve as a church. The name of J. K. Brewster is favorably and gratefully mentioned in this connection ; for, although not a Catholic, yet, as the proprietor of a hall, he proved himself liberal and benevolent to the little Catholic community of those days.

Father Cavanagh was a man of great natural talents, which he had well developed in acquiring deep and thorough learning pertaining to his profession. The many calls which he had to answer, from the various parts of his extensive mission, did not prevent him from paying due attention to the promising little congregation at Freeport. In his zeal for its advancement he lost no opportunity afforded him for promoting its welfare. While using the Brewster hall as a church, he purchased as a site for a future church the lot upon which St. Mary's now stands, and proceeded, without unnecessary delay, to erect on it a frame building to serve as a temporary church. Among the Catholics who then zealously and liberally seconded his persevering efforts in the good cause, were, besides his brother and brother-in-law, William and Thomas Barron, Robert Bellew, Lawrence Frain, John Tophy and brother, and Thomas and John O'Connell.

Among the non-Catholics then in Freeport, Robert and Thomas McGee distinguished themselves by donating the sills for the new church. Others contributed shingles, nails, glass, putty, etc. Thus they not only aided materially in the erection of the building, but set forth an example of liberality and generosity which has been since frequently and extensively imitated by large numbers of the worthy heirs and successors of those very benevolent men.

Father Cavanagh, in 1852, with the approbation of his Bishop, changed his residence from New Dublin to Freeport. At that time, St. Mary's congregation had become considerable. Several families of German Catholics had arrived and become attached to it. Freeport mission then included Savannah, Warren, what is now called Durand, a large portion, if not the whole, of Ogle County, and all the intervening country. His time was very much occupied in traveling throughout the mission, filling his regular appointments and satisfying the numerous sick calls made on him from its various parts. The labors of his successors in our days seem very light when compared with those which he was obliged to perform. Some may undertake to describe what he had to endure, but only those who have experienced the like can realize its wear and tear on the human system. He continued in the discharge of his laborious duties at Freeport until the summer of 1854, when, at the command of his legitimate superiors, he took charge of St. George's Church at Joliet, 111. Four years later, he. was found at his post in the city of New Orleans, Avhere he died a martyr to charity in the discharge of his ministerial duties among the yellow-fever patients of that unfortunate city. Soon after his death, Mrs. Eagan, who still enjoys vigorous health in Freeport, received from a pastor and from the Archbishop of that city kind and sympathetic letters, in which Father Cavanagh's great zeal and devotion to duty in the midst of the plague, and his edifying death, were vividly described.

When Father Cavanagh was called to Joliet, the Bishop considered it proper to give Freeport a pastor who could speak the German language. Accordingly, Rev. Ferdinand Kalvelage, now pastor of the Church of St. Francis of Assisium, Chicago, was appointed pastor of St. Mary's, During his administration, the present brick church was erected. The new edifice was a decided improvement on the original frame, but its low roof and dark wooden gables greatly detracted from what its external appearance ought to be. The stonework supporting the brick and the floor was built too high for a mere foundation, but left at least four feet too low to admit of a serviceable basement. The pastor and the German portion of the congregation had indisputable control in planning and erecting the building, but the Irish portion willingly contributed at least their proportionate share of the whole cost. A school was kept in connection with the church, but it was intended chiefly for the German portion of the congregation. The two nationalities seldom go on smoothly together in church afi"airs for any considerable time. In Freeport they proved no exception to the general rule. But whatever misunderstandings occurred from time to time had not the efl'ect of dividing the congregation under Father Kalvelage, for he understood and guided one nationality, and the other, seldom aggressive in church affairs, duly respected him as the pastor of St. Mary's. In the summer of 1859, he was called away to another field of labor, and was succeeded at Freeport by Rev. Thomas O'Gara.

The new pastor took early and effective steps to have the old frame church converted into a pastoral residence. He enlarged it, raised it a second story, and soon occupied it as a dwelling. It stood by the north side of the church, fronting on Union street. He continued to occupy it during his stay in Freeport. He earnestly exerted himself in collecting funds to secure to the congregation the piece of land since known as St. Mary's Cemetery. He was always zealous, prompt and diligent in the discharge of his ministerial duties. Although he could not speak German, yet those of his congregation who understood only that language were not neglected. He had to assist him from time to time German priests, either appointed by the Bishop or specially invited by himself. Among those may be named the Rev. B. Herderer, Rev. John Mehlman. Rev. John G. Uhlana, Rev. Peter Fischer and Rev. John Westkamp. The German portion of the congregation were dissatisfied. Some of them gave him considerable trouble. They desired to have things their own way. They sometimes made complaints to the Bishop. They would not be satisfied without a German pastor. They wished to be separated from the Irish portion of the congregation. After due consideration, the proper authorities permitted and even recommended the desired separation.

After due deliberation, it was agreed that the Irish portion should own the church, subject to all its indebtedness, but that they should deliver the church organ to the Germans, and pay them a certain specified amount in cash. In virtue of that contract, Father O'Gara was relieved of the care of the Germans, who were soon afterward placed in charge of a Pastor of their own nationality.

Father O'Gara had to fill the void made by the removal of the church organ. It is stated he procured the fine pipe organ which has since rendered very satisfactory service in St. Mary's. He was very successful in collecting means to pay the entire indebtedness of the church, as well as to defray the expenses necessary for keeping it in a respectable condition. He was witty and very amiable. He was kind and considerate with his people, who still remember him with sentiments of very high esteem. No priest had a larger number of friends among the clergy than he. To know him was to esteem him. He was transferred to Bloomington, 111., in April, 1866, where he soon erected a magnificent church, which a cyclone demolished almost as soon as the roof was completed.

Rev. Thomas Kennedy was the next Pastor of St. Mary's. He never liked the position. His wish to leave Freeport was gratified by his removal in November of the same year, when Rev. George Rigby succeeded him. Like his predecessor. Father Rigby remained only a few months. He left the following spring.

Rev. Michael J. Hanly became the Pastor of St. Mary's in 1867. He was a man of great energy and perseverance. He condemned the old frame residence. It was sold and taken ofi" the premises. The lot in rear of the church, but fronting on Madison street, was purchased for the site of a new pastoral residence, and upon it was speedily erected a good two-story building to serve the end in view. Substantial fences were built, trees were planted, and other important improvements made on the property. The zealous Pastor was ambitious of having everything done in a respectable and creditable manner. He deviated from his settled practice in that respect, only when his own comfort was in question, and thus proved that his disinterestedness was stronger than his very laudable ambition. When planning and building the pastoral residence, he deliberately excluded a kitchen and other necessary apartments, that the rest might be properly accomplished and his people not too heavily taxed. Such Pastors are sometimes unaccountably misunderstood ; their zeal is often regarded as selfishness. Their only consolation comes from above. It has happened, on the other hand, that Pastors with little zeal for the true welfare of their flocks, but with very large quotas of self-love, obtained, for a time, the confidence, the plaudits and most generous gifts of the people, and thus received their rewards. Father Hanly accomplished much in a short time. What he omitted when building the pastoral residence has not been supplied by any of his successors.

The neAV Pastor was very zealous and active in the discharge of his duties. He was very desirous of having a parish school attached to St. Mary's, and he was willing to make any reasonable sacrifice in order to establish and sustain one. A fine two-story brick school house, capable of accommodating two hundred pupils, stood on a lot almost in front of the pastoral residence, and it was advertised for sale. Father Murtaugh set his heart on purchasing it for St. Mary's. The lot on which it stood was small, but he knew that lots adjoining it were for sale. His zealous efforts proved successful. The property was purchased and secured for St. Mary's. He had the exterior of the church painted. He continued to prove his devotedness to duty, in various ways, until June, 1871, when Rev. Maurice Stack succeeded him.

Father Stack soon realized the state of things at St. Mary's. After having duly attended to several other particulars, he set himself to work in behalf of the school. The building needed repairs and furniture. With great zeal and devotion he submitted the case to the consideration of his people, and appealed to them for means to enable him to make proper use of the school building. Their response proved satisfactory. The school was repaired and duly furnished. He applied to the Dominican Sisters at Sinsinawa Mound, Wis., for teachers to conduct the school. Their very high reputation for learning and for success in conducting parish schools, was then well known in several cities of the neighboring States, to say nothing of Chicago and some other cities within the diocese. His application proved successful. The sisters arrived in August, 1873, and in a few days afterward opened St. Mary's School. But the zealous pastor had made a sacrifice. He had vacated his own furnished residence to accommodate the sisters, nor did he again occupy it until he had built and duly furnished for the sisters, in behalf of the school, a better house than the pastoral residence. In the mean time he lodged in one house and took his meals in another. He purchased two lots adjoining the school property ; the convent now stands upon one of them ; the other is included in the school yard. In view of the fewness of his people and of the limited means at their command, his success was remarkable. But, in justice and in gratitude to the non-Catholics of Freeport and vicinity, it must be stated that they very generously patronized the fairs and festivals held for the benefit of the church. The late Charles McCoy was known to be exceedingly generous in his donations to the church, as well as animated with a true and disinterested zeal for its best interests. He was a man of considerable influence ; and his very edifying example was a constant though unobtrusive exhortation to others to be faithful in the discharge of their duties as Catholics. Father Stack regarded him as a benefactor to be distinguished among a thousand, and he deplored his death accordingly. The sentiments of the Pastor in that connection were to a great extent those of the whole congregation. Even non- Catholics largely participated in them. In March, 1877, Father Stack was transferred to St. Mary's Church, Aurora, 111. He was succeeded at Freeport by Rev. Thomas F. Mangan, the present Pastor.

The demands on Father Stack, in connection with the new building, prevented him from duly attending to the others. The new Pastor soon realized the fact that they required immediate and very costly repairs, not only to keep them fit for use, but even to save some of them from imminent danger of ruin. The verj' foundations, no less than the roofs and intermediate parts, had to be attended to. The church roof had to be shingled anew. Before doing so the roof itself, which w^as one of quarter-pitch, was changed into almost a new one of half-pitch. The dark wooden gables were removed, and well-lighted brick ones in keeping with the church and new roof were erected in their stead. It took large sums of money to repair damaged parts and to remedy defects, where, at first sight, a small amount would seem amply sufficient. The condition of the grounds also required the expenditure of considerable sums. A piece of land containing about two acres has been purchased and added to the cemetery, which is now in a very respectable condition.

Under the present Pastor, more money has been expended for necessary repairs and improvements than would be required to erect a new building equal, if not superior, to the pastoral residence or the convent, and considerable sums are still needed for meeting pressing demands in the same direction. The condition of the property, however, as well as its appearance, is better now than it was at any previous time, and there is good reason for hoping that both will continue to advance.

The good sisters in charge of the school have been zealous and indefatigable in the discharge of their trying and arduous duties. Sister Augustine, the Superioress, is entitled to grateful acknowledgments from the Pastor and from the people of St. Mary's, for the very efficient and satisfactory manner in which she has conducted the school. Sister Helena has merited equal praise by her able and thorough co-operation in that very meritorious work. Their abilities, which are of a very high order, together with their tact in employing them, reflect much credit on their order and produce wonderful effects in the minds of the pupils in regular attendance at their school. To have their admirable services permanent and duly appreciated at St. Mary's could not fail to produce there very happy results. The pupils enrolled during the current school year number fifty-eight boys and sixty-eight girls. The average daily attendance is forty-eight boys and sixty girls.

The following table shows the average annual number of baptisms performed by every Pastor of St. Mary's whose term of service exceeded one year since the days of Rev. John Cavanagh :

St. Joseph's Catholic Ohurch. - Previous to 1862, the Catholics of Freeport worshiped at St. Mary's Church. The congregation was composed of all nationalities, including a large proportion of Germans on the roster of membership. As the diocese increased with each succeeding year, the duties of pastor and people became more numerous, and doubtless imposed those hardships a faithful attention to duty involves. This condition of affairs suggested the creation of another parish in the city, and the building of a new house of worship for the accommodation of members. This suggestion finally found expression among the members of St. Mary's Church, and led to the organization of St. Joseph's Church. When these preliminaries had been concluded, about one hundred and twenty-five families, composed of the German communicants of St. Mary's Church, purchased the church of the Baptist denomination on the site of St. Joseph's Church, for $2,000, and worshiped therein for ten years. In 1872, the congregation had increased largely, and it was decided to erect a new church edifice. During the winter, subscriptions Avere obtained for the building, and in the spring the corner-stone was laid with impressive ceremonies, the Rt. Rev. Thomas Foley, Bishop of Illinois, officiating. Work thereon progressed rapidly, and by fall it was so far completed as to be ready for occupation. Possession was taken early in the winter, and the dedication ceremonies took place on the fourth Sunday in Advent, 1872, Bishop Foley again presiding, and delivering the dedicatory sermon. The edifice is

150x50, built of brick, in the Gothic style of architecture, and, though still incomplete, is one of the most ornate and complete houses of worship in Freeport. The auditorium is capable of comfortably accommodating a congregation of not less than one thousand, lighted by five windows on each side, and seven in the sanctuary, ornamented with donative offerings from members, with fourteen station pictures and four pieces of statuary, the latter of Munich composition, illustrating sacred subjects, and possesses acoustic qualities of a superior order. The church cost, with furniture and equipments, about $30,000.

Connected with the church is a parochial school, under the tutorship of the Sisters of St. Francis, of Joliet, employing two teachers, who aftbrd instruction in the ordinary branches of education to an average daily attendance of 150 pupils.

The following pastors have served since the congregation was organized : the Rev. Fathers John Westkamp, Ignatius Ballauf and Clement Kalvelage, the latter at present in charge.

The church property, including a cemetery consisting of four acres located one and one-half miles south of the city, represents a valuation of $45,000.

Salem Church. - This society, belonging to the Church of the Evangelical Association, was organized on April 27, 1869. The Rev. D. B. Byers, Presiding Elder of the Freeport District, presided at the meeting; the Rev. H. Messner, pastor, was present, and P. VV. Rockey officiated as Secretary. Articles of incorporation were adopted, and a Board of Trustees, consisting of the Rev. D. W. Grissinger, John Woodside, P. W. Rockey, John Barshinger and Simon Anstine, elected. Upon a complete organization, the following names were found upon the record : John and Mrs. Woodside, John and Mrs. Barshinger, John and Mrs. Miller, John and Mrs. Wolfinger, John and Mrs. Dickover, Simon and Mrs. Anstine, H. W. and Mrs. Pease, T. J. and Mrs. Fiss, Elias and Mrs. Bamberger, Benjamin and Mrs. Clark, W. H. and Mrs. Spelter, J. and Mrs. Fox, John and Mrs. Howard, Amos and Mrs. Heine, Rev. D. W. and Mrs. Grissinger, Samuel Clair, J. and Mrs. Baymiller, Miss Susan Baymiller, Aaron H. Barshinger, Mrs. H. Dengler, Miss E. Dengler, John and Mrs. Fritz, Miss C. Fritz, Elias and Mrs. Koonz, Mrs. Carrie Klock, Mrs. Mary Kaufman, Mrs. Sarah Kyle, Peter and Mrs. Pennicoff, Mrs. E. Neuman, P. W. and Mrs. Rockey, Miss P. H. Reinhuber, Miss Rebecca Rohland, Samuel and Mrs. Shaffer, Mrs. Anna Stibgen, Aaron and Thomas H. Woodside, Miss Sarah Woodside, Misses Mary and Lizzie Woodside, the Revs. D. B. Byers and Henry Messner, Mesdames Byers and Messner, and Elias J. and Mrs. Duth.

After the organization had been effected, the society secured the use of Commercial Hall, on Stephenson street, where a Sabbath school was opened, and the system of church work inaugurated. A committee was appointed to procure a suitable site for a church edifice, to secure funds for which a subscription paper was circulated. A lot was purchased of David Sunderland, on Pleasant, between Exchange and Scott streets, with a dwelling-house thereon, for the sum of $2,500, and a church commenced on the west side of the same. The plan adopted was a Gothic frame, 40x60, and two stories high, and the edifice was erected by members of the congregation, the pastor acting as foreman, and so effectively was work prosecuted, that the lecture-room was finished and occupied in November of the same year. During the month the audienceroom was completed, and in March it was dedicated to the service of God, at a total cost of $7,236.31.

The society is free from debt, maintaining a Sabbath school, three weekly prayer meetings, has regular quarterly communion, and is in a fair condition of prosperity generally.