Boone County, Indiana - Chapter 12: Churches, 1914

Chapter 12: Churches

A little in advance as a forerunner of civilization, as a kind of vidette or scout, we find the man with a gun and sword. As an advance picket on the skirmish line we find the man with an ax, a mattock, a prairie schooner, a shovel and a plow. Following closely in his wake and in the front rank of the main army of civilization, we find the man with the saddle bags, a Bible and a hymn book. The pioneer history of Boone county was no exception to the rule.

In writing a sketch or history of the different churches of Lebanon, care has been taken to obtain all material facts concerning the organization of each, and while some of the statements may be disputed, no facts are cited that were not given by what was deemed competent authority. The churches are spoken of independently and not in the order of their organization.

As to which of the Protestant denominations was the first to organize in the city of Lebanon, it is somewhat difficult to determine, as both the Methodist and the Christian or Disciples were fighting the sons of Belial as early as 1835, but from the best information it is thought that the Methodists were the first.

Lebanon The M. E. Church

In 1835, Rev. Benjamin Griffin, an itinerant Methodist preacher, first began his work and on December 19th and 20th of that year the first quarterly meeting was held and a class organized. Rev. J. L. Thompson was the presiding elder. The class was composed of the following named persons: Josiah C. Lane, Minerva Lane, Addison Lane and wife, Judge Sims and wife and Amelia Zion, none of whom are now living. Josiah C. Lane was for many years a prominent business man of this place and doubtless served as the administrator of more estates and the guardian of more minor children than any other man who has ever lived in this county, and his fidelity to his trusts was never questioned. He was the father of Wes Lane, a former cashier of the First National Bank. Amelia Zion, the last survivor of the class, was the wife of William Zion, after whom the neighboring town of Zionsville was named. She died a number of years ago full of honors and years, and her death was regretted by all who knew her. For some reason the mission did not flourish and there was no more preaching by ordained ministers until October, 1836, when Rev. Ancil Beach happened to discover the vacancy on the skirmish line while on his way to conference and stopped off to open fire on the cohorts of Satan. The conference appointed Rev. John Miller to fill the vacancy but for some reason he refused to accept. It may be that he was needed more at some other post, at least he didn't come here, be the reasons what they may.

In 1837 Rev- Jonas Beloct was assigned and accepted the position with all its difficulties. However he divided his time with other stations and only preached once a month. This, however, was sufficient to keep the church alive and growing, and in 1841 they began the erection of a church building south of the railroad near where the residence of Samuel Rodifer now stands. The frame work was erected and withstood the storms of winter, but succumbed to the gentle breezes of the spring-time. Soon afterward the material was gathered up and used in the erection of a frame building on the site of the present structure. This frame building was dedicated in 1843 during the time that Rev. Koontz had charge of the flock. Previous to this time the faithful had been holding services in the upper story of a log business house owned by J. C. Lane, and located on the south side of the public square. The lot was donated by William Smith.

In 1865-6 the old frame building was torn down and a brick structure erected at a cost of about five thousand dollars and called the "Centenary M. E. Church." This building was dedicated January 28, 1866, by Bishop Bowman, assisted by Revs. J. H. Hull and Griffith Morgan.

The trustees under whose auspices the church was built were Francis Apgar, J. C. Lane, A. J. Crose, S. S. Durbin, and John A. Craig, all of whom are now dead except Mr. Craig who lives at North Vernon, Indiana.

In 1886 the congregation had grown to such proportions that the building was considered too small to accommodate all who desired to attend and was remodeled at a cost of four thousand seven hundred dollars and rededicated as a place of worship by Rev. J. P. D. John of DePauw University. In addition to the lot on which the church building stands the society owns a neat little parsonage on South East street; also residence property on the southeast corner of Meridian and South streets.

The Christian Or Disciples Church

In 1835 some ten or twelve persons of this faith began meeting in private houses for the purpose of worship, but had no regular organization as a church until some time in 1838 when the Rev. Gilbert T. Harney, of Ladoga, discovered their needs and set the congregation in order. They had no building of their own in which to meet, so they worshipped in the old log temple of justice, and promulgated their particular doctrine as best they could. In a few years they were enabled to erect a- frame church house on West Washington street on the lot now occupied by the commodious residence of J. C. Brown. About 1867, this building was sold to the Catholic congregation of St. Joachim and afterward removed to a lot on the east end of South street and was used by the congregation of St. Joachim as a place of worship until they built their present church.

In 1867 the congregation erected a brick church on the southeast corner of the crossing of East and Pearl streets, at a cost of about five thousand dollars, where it has since held its meetings. The house has been remodeled and reseated and is now a neat, commodious and comfortable place of worship. They also own a parsonage, situated on East Main street which they have recently purchased at a cost of about three thousand dollars. The congregation is at present under the pastoral care of Elder A. J. Frank, who is eloquent and logical and highly appreciated by his congregation.

The Sunday school connected with this church is under the superintendency of \V. O. Darnall and has an average attendance of about two hundred and twenty-five. There is also connected with this church a branch of the society of Christian Endeavor, also a Ladies' Aid Society. During its existence, this church has passed through many trials and tribulations but at present "Peace reigns within its walls and prosperity within its palaces." It it filling its mission and promises great prosperity in the future. They have a church membership of about five hundred and seventy-five.

The Presbyterian Church

Previous to any organization of a church society, quite a number of persons of Presbyterian belief were living in Lebanon and vicinity and realizing that wandering sheep without a shepherd were liable to be devoured by wolves in the shape of the world, the flesh and the devil, they concluded as a matter of safety to form a church organization.

In January, 1840, the Rev. W. F. Ferguson, of Thorntown, called a meeting of the faithful and organized a church society with the following membership: James Richey, Jane Richey, Henry McAuley, Henry Hamilton, Elvira Jameson, Debora Sheaf, Poly Anne Stephenson, Auley McAuley and Rebecca McConaughy. All of these persons have passed to their reward, the last survivor being Elvira Jameson. She was the wife of Dr. Jameson, long a prominent personage in this county and the sister of James Richey who was a charter member of the church. While rich in spirit they were not so bountifully supplied with worldly goods and for several years had no per- manent abiding place as a church home, but held services in the court house, the M. E. church, the county seminary building and other places until about 1853, when having prospered somewhat financially as well as spiritually they were enabled to purchase a lot on North East street and erect thereon a very comfortable church building at a cost of about one thousand eight hundred dollars. The contractor and builder of this church was John Busby, grandfather of John H. Busby, mayor elect.

In 1872 their wants having outgrown the accommodations of their building, the society disposed of it by sale to the members of the Baptist denomination and began the erection of a neat and elegant church building on a lot on the northwest corner at the crossing of Main and East street. The cornerstone of the new building was laid September 1st, 1873, and the building partially completed but on account of the financial panic which at that time prevailed, was not entirely finished. However, it served as a place of worship until September, 1878, when the roof and the upper story were torn off by a terrific cyclone which swept over the city. The cost of the building up to this time had been about thirteen thousand dollars. A little discouraged but not entirely cast down by this catastrophe, like true soldiers, they rallied around their colors, gathered up the debris, cleaned away the wreck of their dismanteled fortress, and repaired their entrenchments at a cost of about five thousand dollars and have at present a magnificent structure in which to hold their meetings.

The following persons have been in charge of the church as pastors since its organization : W. F. Ferguson, J. C. Eastman, N. P. Chariot, Samuel N. Evans, H. W. Briggs, Joseph Piatt, P. K. VanWalter, John L. Hawkins, J. B. Logan, Charles K. Thompson, Francis M. Sims, John M. Bishop, D. B. Banta, S. S. Aikman, J. P. Engstrom, J. A. Pollock, and the present pastor, D. E. Williamson. The present membership of the church numbers about three hundred and fifty. The Rev. Williamson is a very quiet and pliable sort of man of more than ordinary ability and is very satisfactory to his congregation. There is a prosperous Sunday school connected with this church : also a branch of the Y. P. S. C. E., a missionary society, and a ladies industrial society. They hold their meetings regularly and are accomplishing their mission. The)' are doing much good.

The St. Joachim Catholic Church

The next church to be organized in Lebanon was the Roman Catholic church, St. Charles, now known as St. Joachim or St. Joseph. Previous to 1862 the persons professing this faith had been compelled to seek spiritual consolation at other places, but in that year they got together and organized a society and purchased a small house and lot on the corner of Lebanon and North streets. For several years they had no regular pastor but were supplied by priests from LaFayette, Indianapolis and other places. The congregation was small and mostly farmers living in Perry and Harrison townships. About 1869 Father Winters was assigned to the charge and having by this time prospered somewhat, they sold their property and purchased the old Christian church that stood on the lot now occupied by the residence of J. C. Brown. In 1875-6, under the energetic pastorate of Father T. Ryan, they purchased the old "Nunn homestead" on Indianapolis avenue and removed the church building to that location. The church property comprises five lots and a new church was built in 1898 and 1899. Certainly a more faithful and earnest people can not be found. They are always on hand in works of charity, the care of the afflicted and the relief of the distressed. The following are the names of the priests in charge since 1874: 1874-75, Thomas M. Cahill; 1875-78, Timothy Ryan; for a short time P. J. Crosson; 1878-82, L. A. Moench; 1883-84, John Dempsey; 1884-85, D. J. Mulcahy, 1885-93, M- FKelly, 1893 to 1898, H. A. Hellhake; 1898-99, Wm. S. Hogan; 1899-1905, P. J. Crawley; 1905-1914, J. F. Connelly. The missions attached to St. Joachim or St. Joseph's Church include that of St. Rose of Lima, at Clark's Hill, Tippecanoe county, which was organized by the clergy of St. Mary's of LaFayette. and attended by them until 1875, when it was transferred to the charge of St. Joachim ; the church building of this mission is of frame, is 20 by 50 feet and the membership numbers fifteen families, chiefly English farming people; St. George's mission at Colfax, which has about the same history as that of Clark's Hill, has also an edifice 20 by 50 feet and is attended by eight families.

They have a membership of about seventy families and as nearly every member of each family is a member of the church, it is fair to presume they have a membership of nearly two hundred.

The First Baptist Church

The First Baptist church was organized in Lebanon on December 12, 1872, with only fourteen members, they being Peter Morris, Esther Morris, William DeVol, Rebecca DeVol, John R. Creigler, Martha Creigler, A. J. Adams, Julia Adams, John A. Abbott, Laura Abbott, George W. Baird, J. F. Cline, Mattie Bruce and Elizabeth Lane. The first officers were Peter Morris, deacon ; George W. Baird, treasurer ; John A. Abbott, clerk.

At the time of the organization, they had no regular place of worship and they met from place to place until they became strong enough to buy the old Presbyterian church which stood on the present site of the new church now to be dedicated. In 1877, the Presbyterian congregation concluded to build a new church and they sold the old frame building and lot to the Baptist congregation. Soon after the purchase and during the construction of the new Presbyterian church, a severe cyclone struck the city and both the new Presbyterian structure and the Baptist church were damaged by the storm. The cupola of the Baptist church was blown off the building and inverted through the roof, doing considerable damage.

During the first two years of the history of the church, they had no pastor nor any regular place of worship but, whenever a minister could be secured services would be held in the old central school building, the court house or at some private residence. During the forty years of the existence of the church, there have been eight pastors, all of whom are living except one, the Rev. J. F. Beaman. During the forty years of the existence of the church, the following pastors have filled the pulpit : Rev. C. B. Allen, from 1874 to 1880, a period of six years; from 1881 to 1882, the Rev. S. K. Fuson; from 1883 to 1 89 1, Rev. J. F. Beaman; 1891 to 1896, Rev. J. A. Knowlton; from 1896 to 1907, Rev. O. A. Cook; from 1907 to 1909, Rev. George B. McKee; from 1909 to 191 1, Rev. F. H. Adams and from 191 1 up to the present time, Rev. F. L. Hardy.

Very soon after the organization of the church, more than forty years ago, it began to increase in membership and, during the pastorate of each of the ministers, the membership and the influence of the church has very ma- terially increased. With a beginning of only fourteen members, they now have a membership of four hundred and eighty-five. In addition to the membership, the church has materially increased in wealth.

The congregation continued to worship in the old frame church, which had become an old landmark in Lebanon, it having been built more than fiftyfive years ago, until on the morning of December 12, 19 12, while at worship, some one discovered smoke in the building. Upon an investigation, it was discovered that the building was on fire. The pastor pronounced the benediction and the congregation got out of the building in good order when attention was turned toward saving the surrounding property, it being certain that the church structure was doomed with no possible hope of saving it.

Before the burning embers of the old church had died away and before the smoke ceased to curl in the air, steps were taken toward the construction of a new church. The people were in sympathy with the congregation and many, who are not members of the Baptist church, subscribed freely toward the construction of the new and splendid edifice.

It was but a few weeks until the required amount of money was subscribed and guaranteed and committees were appointed to carry on the work and their faithfulness to their several trusts is attested by the completion of the new church, which was dedicated May II, 1913. There is connected with this church a flourishing Sunday school. The average attendance at Sunday school is about one hundred and fifty. They have also a Baptist Young People's Union ; also a Junior B. Y. P. U. They have a Ladies' Aid Society and a Ladies' Missionary society. The church is active in all charitable work and is ever ready to aid the needy and raise the fallen.

The First Christian Church, Lebanon

On the 10th day of September, 1895, in response to a call published in the Lebanon papers, a few members and friends of the Christian church met at the Baptist church, at which meeting it was decided to build a church, a lot having previously been purchased. A. D. Beck, J. J. Kern, C. O. Tribbett, L. W. Fuller and S. Stackhouse were appointed as building committee. Subsequently Mr. Kern and Rev. Stackhouse resigned and Rev. C. A. Brown and David Abernathy were appointed in their places. This committee was given full power to solicit and collect funds and contract for the building. The lot on which the building was subsequently erected is on North Lebanon street.

The committee at once proceeded to solicit funds and subscriptions and on October 7, 1895, awarded the contract for the construction of the church to G. W. Busby for two thousand one hundred dollars. Bad weather interfered somewhat with the completion of the building and it was not ready for dedication until May, 1896.

On May 27, 1896, a goodly number of persons met at the church and proceeded to the organization of a church society "to promote the cause of Christ in this city and to satisfy a longing desire in the hearts of many whose names appear together in a church covenant."

The following named were the charter members of the church: C. A. Brown, Augusta Brown, Alfred D. Beck, Margaret J. Beck, Jacob Harlan, Sarah A. Harlan, Margaret F. B. Young, Wilder D. Rinehart, Laura L. Rinehart, Hanna McCann, Mary E. Tracey, L. W. Fuller, Jesse S. Reagan, Orinda Reagan, Montez Staton, O. H. P. Staton, Nancy Rader, C. O. Tribbett, Dellie Tribbett, Amanda Witt, R. M. Powell, Betsy J. Powell, Daniel Abernathy, Samuel Stackhouse, Elizabeth Stackhouse, Ellen Stackhouse, Isaac McClaine, Nancy McClaine, John C. Rader, Emma Rader, Maggie Pounds, Laura Rader, Richard M. McCoy, Nancy J. McCoy, Catharine Overlease, E. M. Danewood and Cynthia Rice. After the adoption of the covenant the above named were admitted to fellowship in the church by Rev. C. A. Brown. They then adopted rules for the government of the church, after which they proceeded to elect the following officers: Pastor, Rev. C. A. Brown ; clerk, W. D. Rinehart ; treasurer, A. D. Beck ; official board, Jesse Reagan, Margaret F. B. Young, Nancy Rader and L. W. Fuller. A. D. Beck and Jacob Harlan were the first deacons of the church.

There is in connection with this church a flourishing Sunday school, which meets every Sunday and is well attended. There are also other auxiliary societies connected with the church. They are filling their mission and are what their names imply.

Lebanon United Brethren

At an evening meeting in April, 1888, Rev. Stackhouse, Jacob Byerly, Nathan Haller, Jesse Arbogast, John L. Pierce and others who were present, decided that an effort should be made to erect a church building in their ward to be under the care and control of the United Brethren. Every one went to work with a will to carry out the enterprise. Before two weeks were up the money had been secured to buy a lot at a cost of $175.00. The foundation of the building was begun in May, 1888, Rev. Stackhouse throwing the first shovel full of dirt from the excavation. John W. Lewis was employed as a carpenter, and Jacob Byerly devoted almost the entire summer to the superintendency of the work. The house was finished and dedicated February, 1889. Rev. Stackhouse preached the first sermon in the house on the evening before the dedication. On February 23, 1889, Rev. Garrigus and Elder T. M. Hamilton organized the first class composed of the following members : Nathan Haller, Martha Haller, Nettie Haller, Pearl Haller, John E. Friel, J. F. Emery and Laura Emery. Rev. Garrigus served as pastor until the following September, at which time there was a membership of sixtythree. He was succeeded by Rev. Henry Meredith who served until September , who increased the membership to eighty-three. Rev. J. T. Shagley was the next pastor in charge. He served for one year, and at the end of his term the membership had reached one hundred and thirty-six. Rev. W. H. Miller was his successor and served for two years. He was followed by Rev. W. H. Jones who for two years successfully labored and increased the membership. During all these years a flourishing Sunday school has been maintained. They have also a Ladies' Aid Society, a Woman's Missionary Society and branch of the Y. P. C. U. In 1898 a convention of the Upper Wabash Conference of the Y. P. C. U. was held at this church in May and was well attended, the pastor in charge at this time was Rev. R. D. Van Allen, who was serving in his second year.

Lebanon Seventh Day Adventists

During the summer of 1890, Elders Victor and Luzern Thompson held a series of tent meetings in Lebanon, and in the fall of that year purchased a lot on South Lebanon street, and erected thereon during the next summer a church building. After a series of meetings held during the winter of 1892, on February 20th of that year, they organized a church and Sabbath school of the denomination of the Seventh Day Adventists. The first quarterly meeting was held by Elder Hadley in this building on the 2d day of April, 1892. The building was dedicated May 28, 1893, by Elder Victor Thompson, assisted by Elders Stevens, Bennett and Luzern Thompson. The members of the church at the time of its organization were Rose McKinsey, Thomas McKinsey, Francis Hanna, Minnie Hanna, David Hanna, Mary Lanpher, Layton Lanpher, Wade Harrison, Rachel Dill, John Hanna, Ora Stephenson, William Campbell, Fannie Campbell, Mary Huston, Lou Campbell, John N. Campbell, A. G. Tucker and Mary A. Tucker. Those admitted to membership since the organization are Justin C. Long, Delia M. Brown, Jennie Grape, Mary E. Hanna, Harvey Ludington, Otto Hanna, Edith Lanpher, Lucy Buntin, Oril Buntin, Dora Ludington, Minnie Hanna, Herbert W. Purdy, Richard Ford and Edna Sunderland. The church is still flourishing, holding services on Saturday instead of the Sabbath day, as they believe in observing the seventh day rather than the first day of the week.

Lebanon African Methodist Episcopal Church

The next church to be organized in this city was the African Methodist Episcopal church, in the fall of 1870, at the residence of Thomas Lowe on South Meridian street. The Rev. Johnson Burden, of Noblesville, organized a class consisting of the following persons : William Valentine and wife,

Andrew Johnson and wife, James Lucas and wife and perhaps others as the records of that meeting are lost and the information obtained is the personal memory of William Valentine. They held their first meetings in the old school house on East Washington street which has been remodeled and is now the residence of Alex Welsh. From there they removed to a room in the upper story of the building now occupied by A. Wysong as a seed store on the east side of the square. From there they removed to a room in the Goodwin block on South Lebanon street, now occupied by Shumate's printing establishment. They remained here a short time and then found a home in a room over the store now occupied by Hauser & Hogshire as a furniture store.

In 1873, by means of various festivals and donations by citizens of the town, they were enabled to purchase a lot on South Meridian street, and built a very comfortable church edifice at a cost of about six hundred dollars. Here they have been holding their meetings ever since. During the existence of the church, the following persons have officiated as pastors : Johnson Burden.

Jones, and others. Rev. Johnson Burden who organized the church is still a resident and honored citizen of Noblesville. He still preaches occasionally and in the intervals performs the duties of court room bailiff for the circuit court of Hamilton county - a position similar to that occupied by Toll Titus in the Boone circuit court. He is universally respected and is a favorite with the Hamilton county bar.

At various times attempts have been made to establish a Sunday school in connection with this church, but they have been unsuccessful. The membership is small but strong in the faith. They are William Valentine and wife, John Valentine and wife, Sarah Lindsay, Hugh Seaton, Joshua Seaton, Ben Seaton, Cecil Scott, Melvina King, Ella Valentine, Lizzie Valentine, Lizzie Lewis and others.

Jamestown Methodist Episcopal Church

This society does not appear very early at this point. The very earliest in this section of Boone county, formed a class southeast of Jamestown near the edge of Hendricks county. Among the very first members in that society we find the names of Mariah Walker, John Porter and wife, Jesse Mc- Mahan, Elizabeth McMahan, John Okey and wife, Jesse Hendricks, Mary, Henry and Martha Hendricks. This society had no meeting house but met at private houses for many years, mostly at the home of John Okey. Among the early ministers were, Enoch Wood, Rev. Utter and Jesse Hill. In 1838 a society was organized at Jamestown and the meetings were held in a church where all denominations met at that time. Among the first in this society were, Daniel Jesse, Samuel Perr, Lee Tucker. J. H. Camplin, J. Hudson. John Porter and wife, Dr. Orear, Samuel Jesse and wife, Mary Long, James Williams and Mrs. Galvin. Among the earliest ministers may be named Joseph Marsee, Daniel F. Stright and Joseph White. H. B. Ball was the minister in the year 1869. In 1870 and 1871, James Spinks was the minister in charge. During the administration of Rev. Spinks the first church was erected, at a cost of $3,500; it is of brick and will seat about 500 persons. It was dedicated by Bishop Bowman. At that time there was a good Sunday school and a membership of 175.

M. E. Ministers, Zionsville, Indiana

From the Zionsville Times we append the following clipping intimating the story of one of the oldest country churches in the county and showing its healthy growth to this date.

Salem M. E. Church

"The corner stone of the new twenty thousand dollar country church of the Salem congregation of the Methodist Episcopal church, near Zionsville, was laid Sunday, June 21, 191 4, before a crowd of two thousand people. Prior to the ceremony an address was delivered by Raphael P. Bundy on "The Church as an Asset." T. H. Stonecipher, superintendent of the schools, also delivered an address on "The Church as an Intellectual Asset." John M. Mills spoke on the spiritual side of the church and a history of the congregation was read by E. B. Bender.

The church is one of the oldest country congregations in Indiana and is said to be the wealthiest. It was founded in 1834 on land owned by John Wood, one of the early pioneers, who immigrated to Indiana from Salem, North Carolina, and was one of the founders of the church. The first trustee was William M. Lemon, Fishback creek. It was named by Jonathan Hall and Nelson Shaw. The descendants of these men make up the church today. The church's first minister was a "circuit rider" preacher whose name has been forgotten. The present pastor is the Rev. Allen P. DeLong. The other ministers taking part in the ceremony were the Rev. F. B. Grimes and the Rev. G. L. Combs.

Thorntown Methodist Episcopal Church

The present Methodist Episcopal church is being removed in order to reconstruct. It will soon be numbered with the past. It is consecrated ground for it has served as the church home of the society from the start.

was the first pastor and preached here several times in the fall of 1832 and 1833 before a class was formed. In the year 1834 he was returned and organized a class of twenty members.

Rev. Phelps was the next preacher and preached to the class regularly. In 1835 Ancil Beach was in charge and kept up the interest. 1836 Eli Rogers was appointed but did not often preach at Thorntown. The society waned under Rogers and Thomas J. Brown as the appointed minister of 1837, found no society or organization. On the second Sabbath of May, 1838, he organized a society of eight members, viz. : Elias Tolbert and wife, Green Foster, wife and daughter, Sarah, wife of Dr. Amos Davis and a young man, name not given. The first person to join the class was Oliver Craven. He was baptized and became leader of the class. From that date to the present weekly services have been continued. Preaching every four weeks at the beginning.

List Of Ministers

The first church, a frame building, was erected on the present site which stood until the year 1873 when the present brick structure was erected. It has served for over forty years and is now to give place to a modern structure. Its walls and form will pass away only to remain in pictures and memory.

Thorntown Presbyterian Church

The first church (Presbyterian) was set in order in the house of Cornelius Westfall in 1831. However the first authentic account we have of the organization of a Presbyterian church is given in the minutes of the Crawfordsville Presbytery held in Delphi in January, 1833, which reads, "Brother Young reported that he had organized a church at Thorntown, which was by motion taken under care of presbytery." A resolution passed at that same day session was the following, which is both quaint and suggestive after the lapse of eighty years, "Resolved that the missionary sermon be preached this evening at candle lighting." This was twenty years before the invention of the kerosene lamp. This shows that the presbytery had even at that early day a well defined and aggressive missionary policy. Indeed Claiborne Young, the founder of this church and its first pastor, was a missionary in the best sense of the word. He also founded the churches at Lebanon, New Bethel and Shannondale.

Prominent among those of the old school branch was Cornelius Westfall, who platted the village of Thorntown in 1830. Samuel E. McCorkle is the first elder mentioned in the new school records; it is very probable that he was connected with the organization before that time. The county at this time was almost a wilderness. There were no roads and no bridges. The people generally attended church on horse back or on foot. The inhabitants were few and widely scattered, each settler having chosen the choicest land on which to make his home, and it was chosen with regard to its proximity to a good water supply, as they universally depended on springs for their drinking water. In hunting for the early record of the Thorntown church one meets with especial difficulty as all records of the first five years of the church have been lost and there are no minutes of the old school branch until the year 1838, several years after the first church came into existence. All of the noble men and women who organized the church have long since gone to their reward and we are entirely dependent on the memory of the older citizens for information, except what information we have gathered from the reports of the presbytery to the general assembly.

The first thirty-nine years of its life the church maintained a precarious existence. In 1837 occurred the great division in the Presbyterian church (22) all over the United States, commonly called the old school and the new school. From one extreme of the United States to the other large and small churches were rent asunder, the real cause of which is not plain. Slavery may have had as much or more to do with the unhappy discussions as the difference in doctrinal points. However when slavery was dead and some of its great leaders had joined the general assembly above, the great Presbyterian body was again united and became one body as before the dissension. While this controversy was at its height the Thorntown church was in its infancy. The feeble church was made weaker, ministers moved more frequently, members of the churches emigrated and other denominations absorbed the children of Presbyterian families. Consequently as a denomination the growth has been slow and it is the more difficult to pursue its early history. One historian claims that the M. E. church of Thorntown was organized in 183 1, one year prior to the date given the Presbyterian church. This may be doubted, as the same writer says the first religious meeting held in Sugar creek township was at the house of Cornelius Westfall under the auspices of the Presbyterian clergyman, Rev. Claiborne Young, in 183 1, and that the first Sunday school was organized by J. L. McConnell and Cornelius Westfall in 1834, in a log house. They were both Presbyterian elders, belonging afterward to the first Presbyterian church. It is not known in what year the first edifice was erected, but the house now occupied by Mrs. Wyant on West Church street is known to be the first house of worship used by the Presbyterian denomination. After the division the new school branch erected the building known as the Dr. Rose residence, this was about the year 1839. In the meantime the old school branch worshipped in various places until about the year 1857-8, when they erected the building now occupied and used by the Baptist people. In the year 1853-4 the new school branch erected a frame edifice on the present site, of about the same dimensions as the one now occupied by the Baptist church. These two buildings were used by the two congregations until the year 1864, when we find this record made in the minutes of the new school church, "The church edifice was destroyed by fire this morning at two o'clock. No insurance. The congregation of the old school church unanimously and cordially tendered the use of their house of worship on alternate Sabbaths with the blending of the Sunday schools into one ; which, needless to say, was gladly accepted." The fire seems to have been a blessing in disguise; while the ruins were still smoldering the men of the church met to consider the question of rebuilding and before the close of the war the sum of five thousand dollars had been subscribed toward the cost of the present structure, which we are told in another minute cost eleven thousand dollars when completed. This generous and kindly act of the old school branch was no doubt a means of hastening the reunion of the two bodies. It is, however, within the memory of one who is still living and a member of the church, that the two congregations worshipped together on alternate Sundays and held a union Sunday school, and that the two branches affiliated with each other far more freely than with other denominations.

The building now occupied was erected in 1866 by the new school branch. During the interval between the fire and the erection of this building the two congregations used the old school church building (now the Baptist church). The union was consummated in 1870, after the new school branch had taken possession of this their new home. At the time of the reunion this church had for its pastor the Rev. H. I.. Dickerson, the old school branch had the Rev. H. F. Patterson. When the union was consummated they were both retained for one year, when they agreed to resign and accept other charges and not embarrass the united church in making any choice between them. At the time of the reunion, when it became necessary to have a name for the united church, the following resolution was passed by the united church, "That for all local matters pertaining to the church, the two congregations being combined into one to be known as 'The Presbyterian Church of Thorntown.' " Thus eliminating the titles by which they had been known as the First and Second Presbyterian churches.

The last report of the old school branch gave a membership of one hundred and two. The new school branch as one hundred and thirty-eight. This should have given us a membership of two hundred and forty. However, our report to the general assembly is given as two hundred and ten. Several times since the membership has fallen below the two hundred mark. The general assembly authorizes our sessions to place non-contributing members on what is known as the retired list, this shortage may have been caused by this procedure, and although Thorntown has practically stood still for forty years, the church has grown until now we have three hundred and seventytwo contributing members, besides some who live at a distance and are not on the active roll.

During the period of the division the old school branch was served by seven pastors, Rev. W. F. Ferguson, Rev. S. N. Evans, Rev. C. K. Thompson, Rev. S. R. Seawright, Rev. Isaac B. Moore, Rev. J. Mitchell and Rev. R. F. Patterson.

During this time the new school branch was served by Rev. David Jones, Rev. Thompson Bird, Rev. W. N. Stinson, Rev. Benjamin F. Cole, Rev. William R. Stevens, Rev. Franklin Putnam, who died here in 1859; Rev. Isaac DeLaMater, and accepted the chaplaincy of the 72nd regiment in the Civil war ; Rev. R. P. Wells and Rev. H. L. Dickerson.

From the time of the union until the present time the church has had as its supplies and pastors, Rev. H. L. Dickerson and Rev. F. F. Patterson, jointly; Rev. T. B. Atkins, who is still living; Rev. D. R. Colmery, Rev, R. F. Caldwell, Rev. S. W. Elliott, who met such a tragic death at Winona a few years ago in an attempt to save the life of his grandchild; Rev. Samuel Sawyer, Rev. James Williamson, who holds the record for the longest pastorate, eight years; Rev. John H. Sherrard, Rev. U. L. Montgomery and the Rev. H. N. Ronald.

Of this number three are still living, Rev. T. B. Atkins, U. L. Montgomery and W. R. Williams ; besides Rev. William Folk, who as a student of Wabash college supplied this pulpit for a short time. There are five widows of former pastors who survive. They are Mrs. S. R. Seawright, of Delphi ; Mrs. R. F. Caldwell, of Sharpsburg, Ky. ; Mrs. S. W. Elliott, of La- Fayette ; Mrs. James Williamson, of Indianapolis, and Mrs. James H. Sherrard, of Wilkinsburg, Pa.

There have been twenty-four men who have been ordained as elders in the church during its history, not including Dr. Hurt or the present board, which makes a total of thirty-four. These were Cornelius Westfall, J. L. McConnell, Samuel E. McCorkle, James Adams, Simon Loup, George Mc- Laughlin, Dr. J. M. Boyd, James K. Matthews, James C. Hague, Milton McCorkle, Larkin Thompson. J. C. Maxwell. Joseph Bryan, A. F. Cochran, J. T. Williamson, Charles Welch, Mitchell Henderson, John Higgins, David Cory, John Majors, Robert Hamill, James Clark, John C. Vannice, and Dr. H. M. Rose.

Boyd, who was an elder for fifty-two years, and served as clerk of the session for twenty-four years, 1847-1871. Samuel E. McCorkle, the first elder of the new school branch, served as an elder for forty-eight years. Dr. H. M. Rose was elected an elder at the time of the reunion and was made clerksoon after and was continued during the remainder of his life, thirty-four years. Thomas V. Caldwell and C. W. Johnson, twenty-eight years each.

As to the personnel of these men I shall give only facts of especial interest. The election of a man to the office of ruling elder is an expression by the congregation of their estimate of his Christian character, and their reelection is to be taken as a vindication of their correct lives, and my opinion of the personal worth of any one of them might seem to detract from others, who though more humble may have been just as worthy of our praise. There were two men who were at one time or another elected to the eldership who declined the ofhce on the ground that they considered the office should be filled only by men of the highest and most exalted Christian character, and the office so sacred that they could not assume to be fitted to occupy such, thus proving to the world that they were the better qualified to serve in such an office, having a full appreciation of the sacredness of the office. These men were T. J. McCorkle and James Johnson. No more worthy men could have been found and they thus proved their fitness by their humble attitude as they were both men of the highest Christian character, Mr. McCorkle being one of the pioneer Sunday school men of the county and serving this Sunday school as its faithful superintendent for more than forty years.

The first minutes we have of the old school branch are dated September, 1858, and signed by James Adams as clerk. We still have this family with us in the person of Mrs. Ida Patton Matthews, who is a granddaughter, and her grandchildren, who are great-great-grandchildren of James Adams. It is positively known that Cornelius Westfall and Lindsey McConnell were elders prior to this date.

We have the minutes complete of the new school branch from the date of its organization in 1838. The charter members of that organization were Samuel and Jane McCorkle, Milton and Elizabeth McCorkle, James and Mary Johnson, Thomas J. and Mary McCorkle, Margaret Higgins and others. Of this number there are two families still represented in our membership. S. E. McCorkle and James Johnson. The family of T. J. McCorkle is represented in the person of his son, James H. McCorkle, from whom we will hear later ; and also Mrs. Harrison, a daughter of Margaret Higgins. Samuel and Martha Kinkaid were admitted into the new school church at the first meeting after the organization. This family is still included in our membership, and one member, Mrs. Elizabeth Kinkaid Corrie, has the distinction of being the first name on the roll, having united with the church before any member now living. There are other families who have been connected with- one or the other branches of the church for a great many years. The Hamill family is one. Mrs. Elizabeth Hamill was admitted into the new school branch in 1848, by certificate from the old school branch, and her son remembers to have heard her say that she was a charter member of the old first church. This gives this family the longest family connection. The Matthews family have been members of this church since 185 1 ; a large family and all having been members of this church at some time. Mrs. Northrup, of Iola, Kansas, is the oldest person now living that has ever held membership in the old Thorntown church. She is still able to attend church, and she and her husband were the main stays of the Iola church from its organization to his death. She and her three sons are still among the strong supporters of the church today.

Those who were members of the old school branch are : H. W. Hill, Mrs. J. C. Vannice, Mrs. Susan LaFollette, Mrs. Ida Patton Matthews, Mr. H. W. Henderson, Mrs. Sarah Henderson Hamill and Mrs. Isabell Craig Cline.

Those having membership in the new school branch are : Mrs. Elizabeth Kinkaid Corrie, Eliza Matthews, Miss Martha Matthews, Miss Alice Johnson Kinkaid, Miss Hester Matthews, Charles W. Johnson, Mrs. E. R. Jaques, Mrs. Emily Brainard, Mr. Lewis W. Jaques, Mr. Joseph C. Jaques, Mrs. Mary Belles McCorkle and Mr. George Coulson.

The Thorntown Presbyterian church has from its organization been one of the leading influences of this community, and its members among the leaders in any movement for the betterment of the moral conditions of the community. Its lady members took a very active interest in ridding the place of the doggeries which were everywhere present in our state before we had our present option and remonstrance laws. Many of the citizens witnessed the raid made by the ladies of the town in the 50's when the women rolled the whiskey barrels into the street and one woman, a member of this church, took an ax and caved in the heads of the barrels and allowed the liquor to run into the gutter ; the men standing near by to see that they were not molested. This was an act of self -protection of their families and was not condemned by the citizens. The men of the town afterward demolished and rid the town of the traffic, for a time at least.

It has always been one among the most aggressive churches in the Crawfordsville presbytery. In the report to the Home Mission Board it ranked third in amount contributed, fourth in membership, and tenth in proportionment giving.

Missionary Society

The following is the paper read by Mrs. T. O. Matthews at the eightieth anniversary of the Presbyterian church, giving a brief history of the Missionary society:

We are glad to have the privilege of giving you a short history of our missionary society. This is the thirty-seventh (37) year of organized missionary effort by the women of this church. We feel that we have made great progress in our work and while it may not be as interesting to all, as a few, we will hastily give you some facts. We had the two Presbyterian churches each having an aid society, but no missionary society, and it was not until several years after the union of the churches, that the great need of special work for missions was impressed upon the hearts and minds of the women of the church.

On February 6th, 1875, a company of women met at the home of Mrs. Mary Hague to consider the situation and devise some means of doing systematic work. The outcome of this meeting was the organization of a missionry society. Mrs. Robert Caldwell, our pastor's wife was the first president, Miss Anna Sims, secretary, and Mrs. Susan LaFollette, treasurer. A constitution was adopted, which is the foundation of the one we have today. At the first meeting of the society, arrangements were made for the work of helping a Home Missionary and family, by sending a box of useful articles. The charter members were : Mesdames Amanda Cory, Mary Hague, Emma Hebb, Susan LaFollette, Dr. Rose, Dr. Boyd, Ann Taylor, M. A. Brown,

Sims, Elizabeth Matthews, Robert Caldwell, Sarah Moore, Irene Hughes, Samuel McCorkle and Misses Anna Sims, Mattie Matthews, Nelia Jacobs. The amount of money raised the first year was fifteen dollars, which was sent to a home missionary, the Rev. Tatesworth to help him buy a horse, as he was walking seven miles to his preaching place and was in need of a horse.

In 1880, Mrs. S. W. Elliott was our president. During this year the society took a scholarship in the Laos Mission in Siam which amounted to twenty-five dollars a year, which pays for the support of one girl for a year in our mission school. One of these girls we heard from several years ago. After leaving school she married a Christian native and they set up a Christian home, which has been a blessing to many. No doubt other Christian homes have been started in the same way. Our society now has invested eight hundred and twenty-five dollars in this way in the Laos Mission. In 1880 we sent a box of clothing valued at thirty-two dollars to William C. Smith, a home missionary in South Carolina. In 1881 we sent a box valued at sixty-seven dollars and fifty cents to a home missionary in Iowa, and this year we purchased a small library of good missionary literature. Our presidents have been Mesdames Robert Caldwell, S. W. Elliott, Amanda VanNuys, Miriam Sawyer, Martha Williamson, P. T. Hague, J. H. Sherrard, Irene Hughes, T. O. Matthews, Dr. Rose, Samuel Carter, Frank Armstrong, at the present, Mrs. Dr. Brown. For several years our pastor's wife acted as supreme president. These presidents each have had good helpers in their secretaries and treasurers. In looking over the past we realize we have accomplished much, but could have done so much more. Our membership has increased from the original twenty-one members to fifty-three at the present time. We have had all along, associate members, those who contribute but do not attend the meetings. We have lost many by removal and we have lost at the rate of one each year, by death, since our organization, Mesdames Mary Hague, Mary Shipp, Mary Kashner, John Wild Senior, Susan Patton, William Boyd, Kate Austin, Elizabeth Millikan, David Cory, Eva Woody, Elliott Senior, Samuel McCorkle, Eunice Sims, Mary Sims, Mary Corrie Mitchel Henderson, George Fielding, Nathaniel Gapen, Jane Cash, Amanda Hill, Andy Yost, Ann Taylor, Sarah Potter, Mary Brown, Mary Cochran, Emily Henderson, Nancy Rosaboom, Mary Torbett, Axy Hill, Elmer Brenton, Dr. Boyd, Amanda VanNuys, M. J. Barker, Jennie Craig, and Misses

Lizzie McCoy, Nelia Kinkaid, Mary Jaques, Euphemia Hoover, Alma Matthews. We, as members of the missionary society would honor the memory of these departed ones. We do testify to their lovely Christian influence. We have honored the memory of our soldier boys today with flowers and starry banners; so tonight we would strew the garlands and cherish in our hearts the memory of these dear missionary workers, for by their influence and their most fervent prayers, our society is the strong Christian organization it is today.

We send our offerings each year to the mission fields, both home and foreign, as much to one as another. We have sent boxes and barrels of clothing to the home field to cheer anxious hearts and have made our money in many ways. We have had the time honored mush and milk suppers, corn husking, contests, pieced quilts, sewed carpet rags and had strawberry and ice cream festivals, sold sunbonnets, had box socials, sold dinner to the election board, served dinner on rally days, had our mite boxes and birthday boxes. In 1883 we secured a window in Mr. Cole's hardware store and furnished ready made clothing, such as aprons, bonnets, children's clothing, or any article that would meet a ready sale. We continued this each Saturday from March to July then the merchantile business was suspended.

We, as a society have entertained Crawfordsville Presbyterial Society and each year we send delegates to both Presbyterial and Synodical meetings. The ladies of the Lebanon and Thorntown societies have a county organization which meets each fall and always has good speakers. For many years the young people's organization Y. P. S. C. E. made a missionary collection on the day of its anniversary and the Sunday Sabbath school gave to missions the last Sunday of each month, these offerings going through our local missionary society - but now these organizations act independently so our yearly contributions are decreased just that much. We have had organizations within ours outside of Y. P. S. C. E. and the Sunday school. We had a band called Willing Workers, consisting of Mrs. Farber's Sunday school class also the Little Gleaners organized by Mrs. Flora Welch McCoy and Miss Anna Sims. We had a boys' band and the King's Daughters organized by Miss Bell Torbet.

The Junior Missionary Society is now doing good work under the direction of Miss Mattie Matthews and Miss Ollie McKinsey. The Brier Band, composed of young ladies in memory of Mr. Brier, who was ordained in this church at a Presbytery meeting, who with his young bride were entertained in the home of Mark Moore and immediately afterward started for Africa. The climate soon caused his death and Mrs. Brier and little daughter returned to her home in Illinois and she was the guest of the Brier Band at one of their meetings at the home of Mrs. T. O. Matthews. These young ladies did excellent work and showed much zeal, but was gradually absorbed by the older society. The Westminister Guild of today is an organization in which we are much interested; they are working along the same line of work and only a few more years hence their names will be on the secretary's book of the older missionary society. Let us give them special thought and prayer and help them all we can. In 191 2 we gave thirty dollars to the Gary fund. Our Golden Jubilee offering was thirty-seven dollars and fifty cents. We have our annual Praise Service and have interesting speakers such as Mrs. McCrea, Mrs. Hunter, of Indianapolis and Mrs. Starke, formerly of Frankfort. Praise offering averages thirty-six dollars. Last year we enjoyed many good talks by Mrs. Lizzie Hamilton who had recently returned from a visit with her son in China.

We have an organization called The Sisterhood, whose work is devising ways and means of raising money for the purpose of beautifying the church building and manse and when we have the Easter dinner it seems every lady in the church responds so readily ; how glad we would be to have them be as energetic in our missionary work. Our missionary offerings have increased from fifteen dollars in the year of 1875 to one hundred eighty-five dollars and eighty-one cents in 1913. Our offerings for the thirty-seven years amount to three thousand seven hundred seventy-three dollars and eightynine cents, an average of one hundred and two dollars.

In June of the year 1900, we celebrated our twenty-fifth anniversary, about sixty ladies being present. Greetings from the Methodist societies were given by Mrs. L. S. Buckles : "It affords me great pleasure on this, your silver anniversary, as a representative of Methodism to voice like one of old. As our hearts are right with your hearts, we extend to you the hand of hearty greeting, and we will ride together in the great chariot of golden opportunity, slaying with the sword of the spirit, till all nations become the followers of Christ. Life is not breathing but doing, not receiving but giving. It is not how long we live, makes success, but how well. We live in deeds not words - twenty-five speak the years, but eternity alone can reveal the work accomplished. Our hearty congratulations are yours." Mrs. Starke responded for the Baptist church. She spoke of the sacrifice missionaries made in carrying the gospel to heathen countries. It was a pleasure to be present and offer congratulations on our twenty-fifth anniversary. Warm words of greeting were read from past presidents and absent members. The silver offering amounted to fifteen dollars and sixty-two cents.

United Brethren Church Thorntown Christian Church

Early in the forties, meetings of this denomination were held in a frame structure on east Church street, across the railroad, on the south side. Information is meager in regard to its earliest organization. Elder Peter

Russell is the first whose name we have been able to obtain, as a regular preacher. What he accomplished we do not know. He was succeeded by Elder Milton B. Hopkins, who served the congregation faithfully, but one day came to his death by accident. He was followed by William Young, who was not only a good preacher, but won a lasting reputation as an exhorter, unexcelled at that day. The church moved along, growing in wisdom and liberality. The times were not auspicious for women; it was considered altogether out of place for their voice to be heard in prayer or testimony. Paul's exhortion, "Let the women keep silent in the churches," was impressed upon this congregation. Alvin Hobbs succeeded to this charge, inasmuch as he had a wife, who was an able assistant to him, he was more tolerant toward the ladies and encouraged them in church ministrations.

A revival broke out and two hundred accessions were gained to the church. A new meeting house was projected. The east corner of Main and Vine streets was chosen for a site, and Mr. Condra, in whose addition it was, donated the ground. The money was soon raised by subscription and a new brick structure, commodious and in every way adapted to the needs of that day arose speedily. This church stands there yet; it has weathered the storms, the stress and strain of sixty years, but a plan is now on foot for a new edifice this coming year. The church members are on the "qui vivi," already raising funds and have met with marked success. We have not been able to secure all the names of the worthy ministers who have filled its pulpit and platform with their eloquence, fervor, earnestness and holy zeal for the cause of Christ, but we have obtained a partial list : Elders John A. Johnston, Joseph Davis, H. R. Pritchard, S. M. Conner, U. R. Brewer, A. L. Crim,

In 1887, the congregation numbered seventy members. Fluctuations have taken place in membership, by colonization in the west, by removals and deaths, but a revival now in progress, will again strengthen and build the borders of Zion. The outlook is good and refreshing. A large and flourishing Bible school, ranging from three hundred to less, is constantly maintained by this denomination. The Christian Woman's Board of Missions is aggressive, looking after the welfare of missions. Various social organizations are ever on the alert and accomplish good results by their effective work. A comfortable parsonage is owned and maintained by the congrega-

The Methodist Episcopal Church Of Thorntown

The Methodist Episcopal church at Thorntown has been remodeled this summer, by changing it from a two-story building to a one-story and enlarging it. so as to give ample room on the ground floor for all of its services. The steeple was removed and the roof lowered. The walls on the north and south sides were moved out so as to give more room. The building was veneered with dark brown brick, giving the building a new and modern appearance. The roofing is of tile instead of slate. Under the addition on the north side, twenty by sixty feet, there is a basement room commodious and airy. The old chapel room, formerly used as the lecture and Sundayschool room, has been changed into the auditorium by cutting windows in the west end, elevating the ceiling, making openings into the additions on the north and south sides and folding doors into the east rooms adjoining. Gables were placed in the roof on the north and south sides. The doors are three for entrance and egress - one on the east side of the tower room, one on the south side just west of the tower, one on the north side in the addition of that side. The building has a modern appearance and is fitted up with all the appliances for the needs and service of the church and it will be very commodious and convenient. It is expected to be ready for services the last month of the year, when it is to be used in a series of evangelistic services conducted by Rev. Frank Wright.

Baptist Church In September, Icjii

The Judson Baptist Association convened in the Thorntown Baptist church. It found the local church well prepared for the large task before it. A preliminary meeting was held Tuesday night, September 12, as a service of prayer which was led by Rev. Carl Tatem of Kokomo. The leader emphasized the fact that prayer was not a gift but a spirit, "The spirit of prayer," and such a spirit characterized the entire meeting. Several remarkable experi-

Wednesday morning the delegates and visitors began to arrive early, a goodly number being present for the opening session at ten o'clock. After a devotional service Rev. A. E. Clem delivered a welcome address in a few well chosen words, bidding welcome to the church, to the homes and to the entire town and on behalf of the authorities, delivering the keys of the town and bidding the guests be at home during their stay. The moderator, Rev. W. E. Abrams, of Camden, gave a most pleasing response, accepting on behalf of the association all that had been so cordially proffered.

Rev. J. H. Mitchell, of Young America, preached the annual sermon, using as a text John 12 : :2i. His theme was "Seeing Jesus." It was a masterful discourse, awakening a longing in many hearts to better know their Master. The Thorntown Letter was then read, after which adjournment was had for the dinner hour.

At one thirty Rev. T. T. Minnis, of Russiaville, led devotional services of unusual inspiration. The nominating committee made their report and the following officers were elected : Rev. W. E. Abrams was re-elected as moderator; Rev. H. H. Hurley, of Kbkomo, vice moderator; W. J. Landis, of Flora, clerk and treasurer ; Miss Iva Caldwell, of Elizaville, vice clerk and treasurer.

Then followed the reading of the church letters from various churches, which showed much progress during the year, that from some of the churches being exceptionally good. Miss Nina Chaney, of Russiaville, gave a well-prepared report on Sunday school work, which was followed by an address by Rev. E. B. Devault, of Galveston, on "Qualified Teachers." He emphasized the new birth as the first requisite and the teaching of right things as essential. The teacher should be original and not simply study what others have written in the lesson helper. Adjournment was then had and the congregation assembled in the front of the church, where a photograph of the association was taken by W. E. Mundell, of Frankfort.

The evening service was largely attended, not all being able to get in to hear the addresses. Rev. G. C. Chandler, of Rochester, spoke eloquently in behalf of the "Aged Ministers' Home," and Dr. Myron W. Haynes, field secretary for Franklin College, gave a stirring address on Education. His theme was, "Things That Are Worth While." He spoke of the call to the ministry with its difficulties and discouragements until some become weary and seek other means of livelihood. This is not only true of the Baptist denomination but he cited one instance where in one large denomination in one conference recently nineteen came up and laid down their credentials. But notwithstanding all the discouragements he would rather be a minister than anything else. Second, it is worth while to be a Baptist because of their glorious history and the principles for which they stand. But they won't stand transplanting, they must be kept in their native soil. Third, we should be intelligent Baptists; should read and especially our own denominational literature. Fourth, we should be loyal Baptists; loyal to our own educational institutions. Fifth, he made an appeal in behalf of Franklin College and asked the churches to stand loyally by him in his effort to add $400,000 to the present endowment of the college of which the General Educational Society will give provided the rest be raised. A resolution was adopted pledging the loyal support of the association. Adjournment was then made until 8 -.30 Thursday morning, all feeling enthusiastic over the day's work.

Thursday Morning

The women's hour was in charge of Mrs. J. C. Smith, of Kokomo. She gave the report of the work being done by the various mission circles of the churches, and while it was encouraging in some respects, yet in others the work was not what it should be, especially in the offerings received. An appeal was made for greater loyalty on the ground of the great need and helplessness of the heathen women in comparison to the condition in this country.

Mrs. Smith then introduced Mrs. Dr. Haynes, of Franklin, Indiana, who spoke briefly of a home being built in Mandalay, Burma, for an Indiana girl, Miss Julia Parrott. She spoke very forcibly of the need in heathen land and the need in Indiana in supporting the work the women are doing. The work in the association is not what it should be. She quoted from another as saying, "The heathen may not need the American but the American needs the heathen because of the need of having a Christian love

Rev. O. R. McKay, of LaFayette, spoke on Foreign Missions. He had been on the field in India and spoke with authority. He said in part : The missionary gets closer to the people than any other foreigner. The converted heathen makes a better consumer and also producer. So aids commerce and agricultural interests. Heathenism has its hand on labor but the missionary releases it and at the same time the minerals and ores and valuable products, thus adding to the world's supply. The mission schools fit young men for these pursuits not only by educating but by making them morally trustworthy.

Rev. Samuel Samuelson, from the Shahn Hills, Burma, followed with a stirring address, giving facts and figures such as only one fresh from the field can do. Rev. O. A. Cook then spoke on State Missions. Eleven hundred were added to the membership through the efforts of our state evangelists and several new churches organized. So far about twenty thousand have been paid into the state board.

In the afternoon Rev. L. O. Egnew, of Bunker Hill, led the devotional service. Rev. J. B. Morgan reported on the Crawford Industrial School. Mrs. Mcllwain and Miss Nellie Morgan, whose work is among the foreign population at Brooklyn, New York, spoke on Women's Home Missions. Miss Morgan always inspires her audiences.

Report of committees followed. Among others by the committee on resolutions was one as follows : That we greatly appreciate the excellent entertainment we have received at the hands of Pastor Clem and his loyal church and the citizens of Thorntown and return our hearty thanks for the same.

In the evening the Rev. H. H. Hurley, Ph. D., pastor of the First Baptist church, Kokomo, gave a stirring address to the young people on the subject, "How to Win a Soul to Jesus."

Members of first class, Oliver Craven, leader; Elias and Sarah Talbert, Gheer and Sarah Foster, and a young man whose name was lost in old records.

Ministers Of M. E. Church At Lebanon And Whitestown Church Census Completed

At the meeting held at the Central Christian church, Lebanon, under the auspices of the Interdenominational Council of the churches of Indiana, Ralph A. Felton, of New York City, and C. A. Neff, of Bucyrus, Ohio, taking a religious census, made a report of the results of their labors. The meeting was well attended, representatives being present from about all of the churches in the county. Mr. Felton, who has had charge of the work of making the survey in this county, gave a most interesting report, from which the following figures are taken :

Center township outside of Lebanon - Church members, 384; churches, 5; population. 2,278; average size of churches, jy ; per cent, of church-going people, 17.

Jackson township - Church members, 1,506; churches, 10; population, 2,675; average size of churches, 151; per cent, church-going people, 56.

Additional information as to the number of resident and non-resident pastors was given and the recommendation made that more resident pastors be emploved. Facts relating to '"overlapping" and "overlooking" of churches were given.

At night Dr. John P. Hale, of LaFayette, president of the Interdenominational Council of Indiana, gave an address. Dr. Hale reviewed the purposes of the organization and told what it hoped to accomplish. He emphasized the need especially of more general co-operation among the churches of the county, believing that if this could be brought about many of the undesirable things shown by the church census could easily be eliminated and all profit thereby. Dr. Hale's comment on the facts shown by the census was very interesting and was heard with profit by all.