Miami County, Indiana - Chapter 17: History of the Churches, 1896

The Methodist Church

see factors of civilization are the state, church and school. A his. tory of any territory will embrace an account ofthese. Our forefathers sought the shores of the United States seeking liberty, political and religious. Religion guided all their thoughts and deeds. It was the beacon that sustained them in the trials and hardships of a new country. As our Pilgrim fathers were, so have been the pioneers of the west, of Indiana, of Miami County. t How sacred to memory is the little log church! And the minister, what a wonderful man was he! And the plain, common people that loved to meet at - worship, how full of good, hard, common sense were they! - To hear dear old grandmother, with her face just shining with glory, tell about the old-style religion, fills us with a veneration, an inspiration! And those old songs they used to sing, they would create an ebullition in any soul! But the history which follows is simply a material account - the organization, early members. church buildings, etc. The ministers of Peru were asked to contribute the history of their respective denominations in this county and three have vtesponded. - THE METHODIST CHURCH.

By Rev. E. E. Neal

In the year 1831 a few Methodists of Miamisport (now an integral part of Peru) requested Col. William M. Reyburn to organize a class of their denomination for religious services. In response to this request Col. Reyburn organized the class, and occasionally preached and held prayer meeting. In 1832 the society was recognized officially and was reported to the annual conference. The society lLeld its meetings for some time at the home of Matthew Fenimore, and Rev. A. A. Tarkington, a local preacher, assisted Col. Reyburn in conducting the services. In the years 1835 and 1836 George Fenimore and John Garrol erected the first Methodist Church in the city of Peru. The church stood on West Ihird street and was a very plain structure, being ceiled with boards and neither plastered nor painted, and 4 wooden chandelier was about its only ornament. In the year 1836 the country around Peru was organized into the Peru Circuit and that system of travel and ministerial supply began io this community. The following is a fairly accurate list of the preachers of the early period from 1835 to 1849: Rev. Miles Huffaker, Rev. Burris Westlake, Rev. Mr. Merchom, Rev. Mr. Reed, Rev. John Tl. Truslow, Rev. Wm. Wheeler, Rev. Wm. Stonax, Rev. Nelson Green, Kev. Mr. Beach, Rev. E. Holdstock and Rev. John F. Donaldson.

10. HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTYout Miami County, was licensed to preach in the little Third street church by the great Richard Hargrave. In 1849 the appointments outside of Peru were attached to other charges and Peru was made a station. Rev. W. L. Huffman was appointed as the first station preacher. Plans were at once completed for the erection of a new church and the work was carried to a successful issue.

In 1860 the charge was divided and che Third street charge was formed and a neat brick church was built. This building proved too small and the eongregation purchased the Second Presbyterian Church at the corner of Main and Miami streets. Thus Methodism in Peru had two church buildings, one on East Main street and the one just mentioned on West Main. Revs. ©. W. Miller, W F. Walker and Charles E. Disbro were among the ministers who served the West Main street church. The East Main street church was served by Revs. C. W. Miller, F. A. Hardin, H. H. Beers, N. H. Phillips, T. Habler, A. S. Lakin, D. F. Stright, W. R. Kistler, J. Coleclazer, W. J. Vigus, W. E. McCarty, R. Tobey, A. H. Tevis and W. R. Jordan.

In 1874 the two churches united into ene congregation and the Rev. John C. Mahin became the first pastor of the united organization. Rev. Mahin has been succeeded by the following ministers: Revs. H. J. Lacey, J- Colclazer, ©. AH. Brown, W. H, Daniel, A. S, Wooten, E. L. Semans and Ernest E. Neal- A very fine and beautiful church property, valued at $35,000, is now occupied by the Peru Methodist Church; the membership is about 800, and the work of the church is very prosperous on "very Hine. From Peru as a center the work of. the Methodist, Church has extended to every part of Miami County. Prosperous Methodist churches are found in every town, hamlet and country-side throughout the county. 'The well-known doctrines, polity and aggressiveness of this explain why it is the leading and most numerous branch of the Christian church in the county and the nation. The Methodist Church is honored for its true Christian fraternity. The saying of the eloquent Bishop Simpson is one of the mottoes of Methodism: «*'We live to make our own church a power in the land, while we live to love every other ehureh that exaits our Christ."

First Bapfist Church Of Peru By Rev. B. F. Cavins

On the I1th day of September, 1866, the First Baptist Church of Perw was organized, the following named persons being its constituent members: Rev, A. Virgil; E. H. Shirk and wife, Mrs. Mary Shirk; H. J. Shirk and wife, Mrs. Minerva E. Shirk; D. DeLawler and wife, Mrs. H. S. DeLawler-. Mrs. Sarah Rea; Moses Mercer and wife, Mrs. H. A. Mercer; Moses H. Waters and wife, Mrs. M. V. Waters; F. M. Bacon and wife, Mrs. Sarah Bacon; George Geves and wife, Mrs. Ellen Geves.

The first pastor was Rev. A. Virgil, who served in that capacity until May 5, 1867. In October, 1867, a house of worship was plannéd and measures taken for its immediate erection. In April, 1868, a building committee was uppointed consisting of H. J. Shirk, F. Hackley and George A. Crowell.

Rev. John Trenneman became pastor in July, 1867. The membersbip of the church increased slowly but steadily under the leadership of Rev. Tren-

In July, 1869, Rev. F. D. Bland became pastor. Under the leadership of this minister the house was finished and dedicated. A great revival was held immediately after entering the new house, when 125 names were udded to the church membership roll. Some of these, then new members, have since become leading workersinthe church. Rav. Bland remained pastor until November, 1870. Under his leadership the church made great advance in numbers.

In May, 1871, Rev. George E. Leonard became pastor, in which rela+ tion he remained until Jan. 1, 1882. Under the wise leadership of this pastor the church made advancement along all the lines of denominational work. The membership was increased until it reached 230. 'The benevolence of the church was greatly enlarged; its debts were all paid, and it became a great power in the state,

In March, 1882, Rev. B. F. Cavins became pastor and has continued in that relation to the present writing. The membership rapidly increased and the Sabbath-school outgrew the old building. In 1894 the foundation of the present magnificent structure was laid, and the house was completed and dedicated Nov. 24, 1895. The house, independent of the lot, cost $40,000.

The Christian Church, Or Disciples Of Christ By Rev. Chas. M. Fillmore

The Christian Church, or Disciples of Christ, began work in the county in Butler Township. In the winter of 1853-4 Rev. Oren Brown began preaching near Peoria and organized a congregation with nine charter members. This was afterward increased to 175 members, and became a vigorous organization. A large frame building known as ''Manna Church," or ''Kizer's Chap~ el," was built about two miles southeast of Peoria, and still remains. The congregation afterward died out, but was revived in 1894, and regular serv- ' ices are now held once a month by Rev. Barzillai M. Blount, of Indianapolis.

At about the same time servives were held in private houses and schoolhouses in the village of Miami, in Deer Creek Township. Success attended the efforts, and in a short time a sufficiently large congregation was obtained to erect a substantial building in the town. But death and removals made havoc with the congregation and at present there is no organization or regu~ lar services.

In 1865 Elder Wyman began preaching in a school-house in Pipe Creek 'Township, which resulted in the organization of the Pleasant Hill Christian Church, composed of fourteen charter members. In 1875 a church building was erected and the church has flourished ever since. In 1887 the congregation moved its place of meeting to the town of Onward, just over the line in Cass. county.

About 1868 a number of Disciples living in Macy and holding membership at Mud Lake Chapel, in Fulton County, decided that a congregation could be built up in that town. Their opinion was well founded. Aaron Walker, of Indianapolis, was secured as preacher and a substantial organization of nearly thirty was the result. In 1873 an excellent brick house was erected. The congregation has continued to prosper, and to-day, under the ministry of Rev. M. F. Rickoff, is growing in numbers and influence.

About the year 1868 Elder Henry Olinger organized a congregation of Disciples in Xenia. It flourished and increased in membership until 1872 a house of worship was built. In 1888 a new house was built, only to be destroyed by fire on the day set apart for dedication. With great pluck the convregation set about rebuilding, but their financial strength was so severely taxed by the expense of the two buildings that they have never fully recovered, and are not to-day in as flourishing condition as they might have been but for their misfortunes.

In Amboy there is a small cong.eyation organized a few years ago and pessessing an excellent brick church building, but soeneumbered with debt as to hinder them from efficient work. Still, they have preaching onee a morth und wil) in time surmount their diftiulties and grow in power.

About 1870 Elder Hodson held a meeting in California school-house ip Evie Township and organized a congregation of twelve or fifteen members. It only survived a short time. In 1886 it was reorganized with seven members and has had regular services ever since. In 18387 a beautiful little building was erected worth about $1,500.

In February, 1888, Rev. C. M. Fillmore, the evangelist for the Christian Church in the district composed of the counties of Fulton, Miami. Cass and Carroll. held a meeting in Bunker Hill. As a result between thirty and forty members were gathered together. Owing to the fact that they were unable to Suild a house of worship the organization did not survive long, and most of the members remaining in Bunker Hill have come into the congregation at Peru.

The church in the City of Peru is the last one to have been organized in the county by the Disciples, but it is one of the strongest. T. J. Legg, state Sunday-school evangelist, visited Peru in January. 1893, and organized a sunday-school of the resident Disciples. In October of the same year Rev. ©. M. Fillmore was sent by the State Missionary Society to take charge of the work. He began with thirteen members. 'The work has flourished, so that in a little over two years' time there are 200 members and possessed of one of the best located church-houses in the city.

In addition to the churches heretofore mentioned, services have been held from time to time at Deelsville. Several ma:nvers are resident there aud in tims a parnanent coazres stion will doabdtless b> establisneal.

As a summary, it may be said that the first preaching was done by the Disciples in the county in 1853. Since then work bas been done in ten lea! Two churches have died out. one moved to another county, one is not vet selfsupporting, leaving six working congregations. Their church property is worth abont $15.000. The avyregate membership is about 600. Further eile tails concerning the individual congregations will be found in the history of the various townships in which the churches are located.

The German Baptist Church

This county is a stronghold of the German Baptist faith. Many of the oldest, most substantial and wealthiest families of the county adhere to this faith. A few sturdy pioneer families of Ohio emigrated to this county in 1836 and laid the foundations for the church. Jacob Brower, Peter Visher, Nathaniel Clingenpeel and their wives have the credit of organizing the first German Baptist congregation in this county. Jacob Brower was the first preacher and the first meetings were held at the home of PeterFisher. 'These families lived near Mexico, and this place soon became the principal point of a territory twenty-five or thirty miies in diameter. The people came a great distance in big, heavy wagons to attend services, which were held atthe home of the members. Frequently they held meetings in large barns. and in the summer time in the shady woods. After services, which were usually held at about 10 o'clock a. m., al] sat down to a big dinner, which was prepared at or near the place where they met. After the frugal meal was served they conversed for two or three hours and then returned to their homes. 'This character of meetings was common among all pioneer denominations. but more especially among the German Baptists. One order of this denomination to this day hold their annual sacrament in a large barn at tne home of some one of the members. The congregation at Mexico soon became very large and several were organized from this one. In 1861 they built a large brick church near Mexico. Its seating capacity was about 700.

The present large frame church, near Mexico, was dedicated in November, 1893. It is 50x80 and will seat about 1000 peoplé. The old brick has been torn down. 'The present preachers of the Mexico church are: Joseph Brower, elder, assisted by Jacob Fisher, Samuel Myres, Irvin Fisher and Frank Fisher. 'The trustees of the church are: Isaac Fisher, Levi Eikenbury and Isaiah Miller, recently elected to serve the place of Levi Miller, resigned, who served for over twenty-five years.

1852. For a number of years prior they met at the homes of members Elder Samuel Murray was the first preacher. He is now a resident of Mexico and is very old. Elder Abraham Shepler was a co-laborer. Godlieb Keller, an elder, is still ving. John Cripe and Benjamin Kinsley were deacons. Samuel and David Puterbaugh were members. These were the majority of the little proup that constituted the Pipe Creek Church in 1850. The first church was erected' in 1856 on land donated by Daniel Shively. In 1873 the present large brick hic use of worship, known as the Pipe Creek Church, was built on land donated by Hannah Me'zgar. Among the later ministers of this church are John E. Shively, Joseph shepler, D. B. Shively, Daniel Bowser, Philip Erbaugh, Abrabam Rinehart and Daniel Long. The Pipe Creek Church has a membership of about 200 souls and a large and well-organized Sabbathschool. The present ministers of this church are: D. P. Shiveley, D. L. Long, Isaac Shepler, Godlieb Kellar and Abram Rinehart. The trustees are Aaron Puterbaugh, Jobn Rohrer and Eli Metzgar.

Until 1882 the church was united. Now there are three branches - the Old Order, Conservative, and Progressive. The division occurred pot so much on account of doctrine as from the practice of modern customs. 'The Old Order claims to prese ve the old orders and customs of the church. 'They do not believe in ornamentation. But a few years ago they objected to carpets, to carriages, to Sabbath-schools and colleges. In 1883 they built a smal] frame church in the nor thwest part of Pipe Creek Township on land belonging to Stephen Cripe. Aaron Metzgar and Samuel Stoner are the preachers. They have a membership of about thirty.

Each branch of the German Baptists has several houses of worship in the county, but by far the most important in point and number is the Conservative.

For many years this branch of the church in the Middle District of Indiana felt the need of a benevolent institution, but was not able to build one- Among its wealthy members a volunteer was found in the person of Levi Miller, a venerable pioneer of Jefferson Township, who is still living where he first located in the, dense forest over fifty years ago. He furnished the grounds near Mexico and erected. the buildings at his own expense, in 1389. on condition that the churches of the Middle District support the insti tution. It is called the Old Folks' and Orphan Children's Home. At first the children and the old folks were kept in the same rooms, but it was found 'that this was not a good plan. Other buildings were erected, and now they are kept separate. Superannuated members of the churches of the M iddle District and orphans of any or no denomination may be admitted. Orphans are well cared for until good homes are found for them. The Home is managed by a board of five directors selected by the church. Rev. Frank Fisher is the superintendent. Mr. Fisher edits a paper at the Home callel The Orphan. It has a large circulation in this and other states and is the means of doing much good for the cause of religion ard the church.

The First Presbyterian Chukch Of Peru By James H. Fetter

The First Presbyterian Church of Peru, Indiana, was organized on Thursday, Noy. 26, 1835, in the house of Judge William N. Hood, Rev. Samuel Newbury presiding at the meeting. The church at its organization consisted of thirteen members, as follows: Mr. Stewart Forgy, Mrs, Margaret Forgy, Mr. O. P. Jennison, Mrs. M. M. Jennison, wife of O, P.; Mr. Cornelius Vauriper, Mrs. A. M. Vauriper, Mrs. Rebecca Williamson (widow), Mrs. Margaret Sergeant, Mrs. Sophia C. Hood, Mrs. Mary Ann Newbury, Miss Caroline Nesbit, Miss Emily Sergeant and Mr. Frederick W. Sergeant.

These persons presented letters of admission from the churches of which they had beon members elsewhere. At that meeting Stewart Forgy was elected and ordained ruling elder. Rev. Samuel Newbury was the first minister of the church.

Rev. F. 8. McCabe, referring to the early history of the church, says: "'The meetings were held for a time in the dwelling-house of Judge William

N. Hood. Afterward Mr. Newbury purchased a lot having on it a double log cabiv, which he remodeled so as to have it in one large room. 'This room he fixed up with seats and desks and used it for a church. As Mr. Newbury preached in Peru only half the time for the first six months, the Methodists, having no house of their own, used the Presbyterian place of worship every alternate Sabbath during that time."

This log cabin remodeled bv Mr. Newbury is supposed to have stood on the south side of West Fifth street, nearly opposite what was later called the «'Ewing House." Afterward services were held in the Smith school-house, on West Second street. Mr. Smith built the house and was the first teacher in the county.

Qn the 28th day of January, 1836, two months after its organization, the jollowing gentlemen were chosen trustees: Judge William N. Hood, Mr. 0. P. Jennison and Mr. Stewart Forgy. Mr. F. A. Sergeant was appointed clerk.

At a meeting of the church three days after its organization, Sunday, Nov. 29, 1835,, Miss Hannah McMasters was received on confession in Christ. She was the first addition to the church on professiun of faith, und afterward became the wife of Rev. John Chester, pastor of the Poplar Street Church,

On the 2d of April, 1836, twenty-seven years before Lincoln issued the emancipation proclamation, a session of the church adopted standing rules on the subject of intemperance and slavery. as follows:

'-The session of, the Peru Presbyterian Church, believing that the use of intoxicating liquors is for persons in health not only unnecessary, but injurious, and that the practice is the cause of forming intemperate appetites and habits; and while it is continued the evil of intemperance can never be prevented; and believing also that the use of intoxicating liquors is opposed to the doctrine and spirit of the Gospel, a hindrance to the kingdom of Jesus Christ, and a disgrace to the Christian religion, do, therefore, Resolve, that they will receive to the communion and fellowship of this church no person or persons who use ictoxicating liquors themselves or provide them for the use of their families, or procure them for the entertainment of their friends, or for persons in their employment, except it be for medical purposes, in cases of bodily infirmities.

«Second. Believing that slavery as it exists in the United States is a great national evil, a sin against God and man. destructive to our s cial and religious interests, and to our civil and politicat- institutions, opposed vo the present and future welfare of the slaves, and to the universal influence of the Gospel, do, therefore, Resolve, that no person or persons holding slaves, or making merchandise of human beings, can be admitted to the communion or fellowship of this church."

The proprietors of the town, Judge William N. Hood, Richard L. Britton and Jesse Williams, preseoted to the church the lot on which the present enurch building stands, and the church proceeded to erect a building for a house of worship in the spring of 1836, which was enclosed in the fall following and ocvupied a few months later. The carpenters were John W. Timberlake and Henry Robinson. This wag the first Protestant house of worship built in the county, and was in constant use from 1837 to 1858, a period of 21 years.

The first Sabbath school in the place was organized by Rev. Samuel Newbury, at the very commencement of his ministry in Peru, and for several years following was the oaly Sabbath school in the town and county. During his ministry here, which lasted nearly two years from the orgaoization of the churea, besides the original 13 members, 11 other persoos had been received into the membership of the church. Mr. Newbury divided his time between Peru and Wabash, preaching at both places.

In October, 1837, Rev. Asa Johnson took charge of the church as its second pastor. He says that at that time out of the 24 on the list, 11 yet remained in Peru and vicinity as follows: Stewart Forgy (elder), Mrs. P. Foigy (bis wife), Mrs. William N. Hood, Miss Sophia Griffith, Miss Sarah Corbin, Mrs. ©. Williamson (widow). Mrs, Caroline Nisbet, Mrs. Samuel Newbury, Miss Emily Sergeant, Mrs. John Stocker.

Rev. Newbury and Rev. Stocker were at this time working in the interest of the «-Peru Collegiate Institute," which they continued todo until the former moved to White Pigeon, Michigan, in July, 1838.

In Octuber following Rev. and Mrs. Stocker moved to Illinois, when the church was reduced to seyen members, one male andsix females. Rev. Asa Johnson, referring to his taking charge of the church in October, 1837, 'says:

'Peru was new and small. Felled trees lay scattered over much of the place. All of the buildings in the town were then situated on and between Canal and Filth streets, and on and between Broadway and Cass streets, except on Fifth street west of Cass street, three dwellings. and on Fifth street east of Wabash stteet, two dwellings. On Fourth street, east of Wabash, one dwelling. On Canal, east of Broadway, one dwelling. On the east side of Broadway, including the old court house and jail, there were just five buildings. Outside of these al] was the dense primeval forest, except on the west, where some cultivated fields. At this time, October, 1837, there was in Peru three organized religious societies, viz: The First Presbyterians, the Methodists and the Roman Catholics. Each had a church edifice enclosed and partly finished." For a while Mr. Johnson preached only on alternate Sabbaths. The Methodist minister did the same, and generally the appointments were on different Sabbaths, so that the people had an opportunity of hearing preaching every Sabbath. By this arrangement Rev. Johnson preached at Wabash, LaGro and Shiloh, all in Wabash county; at Franklin in Kosciusko County; at McPherson (now New Waverly) in Cass county; at Gilead and other places in Miami County. ;

January 10, 1841, A. H. Bodman and Samuel P. Hopkins were elected elders, and Edmund Morse as deacon. 'They were installed in their respective offices January 31, 1841. Edmund Morse was the first deecon of this chureh, In the winter of 1842 and '43 a protracted meeting was held, which proved an invaluable blessing to the church. Rev. Jas. Thompson, of Wabash, and Rev.

Joseph G. Wilson, of LaFayette, assisted in those meetings. Thirty-one were added as the result of this revival, 24 of them on profession of faith:

The court-house having been burned in March, 1843, court was held in the frame church building for'about two years. When the basement of the Methodist Church was built court was held there for a time. on account of class-rooms, being suitable for jury rooms. Indeed, from the building of the. old frame Presbyterian church in 1837 to 1850, it served not only as a courthouse but also as a town hail.

Rev. Asa Johnson's connection with the church ceased in 1848, and he was succeeded by Rev. Milton Starr, who commenced preaching in Peru, July 15, 1849. He continued in charge of the church for two years. Under Mr. Starr's ministry, in August, 1849, nineteen' persons were received into the membership of the church. In January, 1850, thirty-seven were received. August, 1849, the old church was removed from its position on the foot of the lot, where it had stood for nearly thirteen.years, and. placed in the rear of the lqt and a stone toundation was placed under it. Previously it had stood on blocks of wood. In the early use of the house store boxes answered as steps into it. The pulpit was a sture box covered with common goods and later witb - green baize. At the time the church was removed to the rear of the lota pulpit was built, seats were painted, curtains obtained for the windows, hand- . some lamps were procured (taking the place of the tallow candles), and a sub-, stantial fence was placed around the lot, which previously had not been enclosed. After the termination of Mr. Starr's ministry, the summer of 1851, the pulpit was vacant about one year, except during a portion of the time. Rev. James Thompson, of Wabash, preached every third Sabbath.

Rev. F. S. McCabe commenced his ministry in Peru, July 10, 1852, ' which continued until May 20, 1867. March 21, 1853,.it was decided to build @new church. Adam E. Rhodes, E. P. Loveland and James H. Todd were then the trustees. James M. Stutesman and D. C. Darrow were appointed to act with the trustees as a building committee. Aug. 19, 1854, the church was commenced, and on July 4, 1858, the church was dedicated. Sermon by Rev. Dr. White, president of Wabash College. During Rev. McCabe's ministry the church was very prosperous materially and spiritually.

Rev. Everett Thomson succeeded Rev. Mr. McCabe, commencing his labors wih 'the church February 2, 1868, and continued one year. Seven were added to the church during his ministry. The First and Second Presbyterian cburches formed a union, April 1, 1869. September 5th of that year, Rev. Henry L. Brown became the pastor and continued one year, This was the year of revival spirit in Peru. April 10, 1870, sixty-two were publicly received into the Presbyterian church. Probably growing out of the general revival spirit in the city, the Episcopal church was organized soon afterward. In all there were about three hundred accessions to the several Protestant churches as a result of this great revival.

Rey. Samuel Wyckoff succeeded Rev. Mr. Brown. During his ministry, the church was considerably enlarged and refurnished. At some of the meetings held for the improvement ofthe church, quite amusing discussions prevailed as to the merits and demarits of stained glass for windows, this seeming td call out more opposition than any other feature of the improvement. Rev. S. Wyckoff served the church until July 8, 1874, and in October was succeeded by Rev. J. B. Parmelee, who served the church until April, 1876. Rev. Matthew M. Whitfore commenced his labors May 1, 1877, and continued until December 31, 1882. Rev. Leon P. Marshall eutered upon his duties as minister of the church July 1, 1883, and served until May 1, 1889. .Rev. Sol. C. Dickey succeeded Mr. Marshal in June of that year and had charge of the church until Dec. 1, 18938. Rev. Harry Nyce, the present minister, a scholarly and earnest worker, began his labors here Jan. 21. 1894.

The present membership of the church is about 450. The following are the officers: Ruling elders - Robert P. Effinger, James H. Fetter, Chas. A. Parsons, Horace E. Hathaway, Benj. F. Weimer, Lindley M. Test, Elbert J. Dukes; Deacons - John W. Shields, Henry Reynolds, Thos. M. Kier, John H. Ward, J. Wallace Ellis; Trustees - Chas. W. Leebrick, Frank M. Stutesman, David Irwin, Aaron N. Dukes, Frank M. Talbot, William C. Raymond and Chas. J. S. Kumler; Treasurer - Lindley M. Test.

The Catholic Church

Catholic missionaries were the first to carry the gospel among the Miamis and Pottawattomies along the Wabash, even before the white traders and hunters had penetrated the forests. They were the first, to build a church in the county and have ever been the first in point of numbers.

When Peru was laid out, in 1834, the proprietors donated two lots on the corner of Miami and Fifth streets for a Catholic church. The Catholics commenced at once to erect a house of worship, which was completeé 1n the spring of 1835. For the first two years, services were held only occassionally by missionary priests, who traveled through the pioneer settlements. Father Badin was the first to preach in the new church. Father Vorcoras visited here in 1835, took sick, and after a brief illness, died. and is buried in the Reyburn cemetery. Father M. Rutf, of the diocese of St. Vincennes, visited Peru in 1837. 'The first resident priest was Father M. J. Clark, who remained here from 1837 to 42. The church then had no regular services for three years. During that period occasional visits were made by M. St. Palais, a pioneer priest, whose travels embraced a very large territory in Indiana, Tlinois and Michigan. From 1846 to 1860, the following priests served the congregation: Fathers Fisher, McDermot, Carious and Zucker. April 15, 1860, Rev. Bernard Force took permanent charge of the congregation and served until January 1, 1864. During his ministry a parsonage was built at a cost of $2,000 and the Catholic cemetery was purchased and consecrated. Rev. Bernerd Kroeger succeeded Father Force, avd served the congregation until 1871. The present brick church was built in 1865 at a cost of $21,000.

Father Lamour took charge of the church Oct. 1,1871. During his ministry the catholic school house (the old church building) was burned and the present brick school house was built at a cost of $16,000. Rev. Henry church was then.in debt $16,350. The last note was paid Dec. 23, 1886. Since then a very fine spire was placed on the church, and it has been altered and improved throughout. The membership of the church is about 1600.

A Catholic'church was established at Bunker Hill about 1870. Priests from Marion and Kokomo visited the town at intervals and held services at the home of Thomas Gorman. A lot was purchased in 1874 and a house, which had been used as ashoeshop, was-refitted for a church. 'The present frame church on the north end of Eim street was built in 1882 at a cost of $1,300. Services are held once a month by a priest of Kokomo. The members of the church consist of 14 or 15 families. Father Kroeger founded the church at Bunker Hill. and succeeding him was Weichman, then followed Kelly, Twigg, Joy and Grogan.

The Episcopal Church By John Mitchell

The earliest record of this church in Peru shows that on May 2, 1843) a few persons, consisting ef M. W. Seely; John S. Twells, Aibert Cole, James M. DeFrees, James Douglas. George L: Dart, Jonathan W. Smith, John W. Stone, E. P. Loveland, H. M.-Stone, H. J. Rees, D. B. Tyler and O M. Clark, with their respective.families and a few others whose names are not given, who adhered w and believed in the doctrines and form of worship of the Episcopal Church, proceeded,"under the sanction of the Rt. Rev. Jackson Kemper, then bishop of the northwest, and with the guidance of the Rev. H. L. Laird, a clergyman from Logansport, to organize a parish in Peru, then a small village. The organization was perfected and the parish was called St. James. Unfortunately the records of the parish are so meager that we cannot now find the names of the wardens and vestrymen who were elected at that time.

The records of this parish show that on July 11, 1843, the venerable Bishop Kemper visited Peru'and.held services, at which Mrs. Mary Cole, wife of the late Judge Albert Cole; Mrs. Sophia Smith and Mrs. John 8. Twells were confirmed as members. The Rev. Mr. Laird was the one who persented these persons to the bishop for confirmation. The venerable bishop made two other visitations to Peru - one on Aug. 24, 1845, at which time Jonathan R. Smith and Miss Kachel Aiken were confirmed, and the other on May 27, 1846, at which time Miss Helen Mitchell. was confirmed.

The records of said parish show that on April 8, 1844, in pursuance of notice given on March 28, 1844, the members of said parish met at the office of M. W. Seely, in Peru, to elect wardens and vestrymen for said church, which resulted in the election of Henry J. Rees and D. B. Tyler as wardens and James M. DeFrees, Merritt W. Seely and John W. Stone as vestrymen, who all accepted their respective offices. At the mecting of said wardens and verstrymen held on April 8, 1844, Merritt W. Seely was elected clerk of the parish and John W. Stone treasurer. At said meeting M. W. Seely and H. J.

On June 20, 1844, in pursuance of proper notice, a parish meeting was held to hear the report of the committee appointed to dra't by-laws. They made their report and the by-laws were adopted by the parish and subscribed by the following named persons in July, 1844: M. W. Seely, John W. Stone, Albert Cole, Jonathan kK. Smith, H. J. Rees, James M. DeFrees, D. B. Tyler, Henry M. Stone, Alphonso A. Cole, James C. Potter, L. D. Adkison and Sam- . uel Mitchell.

On Easter Monday, 1846, the wardens and vestrymen reported that they had employed the Rev. Fortune C. Brown, of New York, to come here and take charge of the parish. On or about Easter Monday. 1846, the Rev. Fortune C. Brown, of New York, was called as rector. He came here an utter stranger, and by his christian character, exemplified in his daily walk, endeared himself to the citizens. Under his care the church flourished, and numbers of persons who had never witnessed the worship of the Episcopal Church became attached to its services and have adhered to it eversince. His stay in Peru was, however, very short - only about one and a half years. He removed from here to Michigan City, where he was rector for some time, and then returned to New York, where he remained until about the year 1871, when he accepted the charge of a parish in Wisconsin, and died a few years ago.

After the Rev. Mr. Brown moved away, services were continued by H. J. Rees as lay reader for about two years, but he moving away, the services were discontinued, and none were held except occasional visitations by Bishop Upfold.and passing ministers until the winter of 1869, when regular services were held for a short time by the Rev. Thomas Taylor, of Delphi. It is not to be wondered at that during the interval of so many years in which no services were held thut many attached to the church, feeling the need of spiritual food and christian fellowship, wandered off into other folds, where their daily walk and christian life give ample evidence of their integrity of purpose. A few, however, remained attached to the old faith and yearned for the services of their mother church.

In the spring of 1870 the Rev. E. J. Purdy, of Logansport, hearing of the few who remained faithful, and being full of missionary spirit, visited Peru and held services a few times. By his efforts and the aid of a few earnest ladies, the almost extinct fires of the.church were again renewed, and on May 21, 1870, under the sanction of Bishop Upfold, issued the following call:

Notice

Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the friends and members of the Protestant Episcopal Church will be held at their place of worship in the second story of the building situated on the northwest corner of Broadway and Main streets, Peru, Ind., on 'Thursday evening, May 26, 1870, at 7:30 o'clock, p. m., for the purpose of organizing a parish of said church and selecting wardens and vestrymen, in accordance with the canons of said church and

The old parish was reorganized by the name of Trinity Church. A. C. Fiske and Milon F. Smith were elected church wardens and C. E. Rutherford vestryman. We regard it as auspicious that the organization was effected on what is known in the church as Ascension Day. It will stand as a beacon light to members, continually pointing out to them the desired haven in which

On July 1, 1870, the Rev. W. N. Dunham was called as rector of the parish. He took charge of it, and during his ministrations a number of persons joined the church.

Services were held about two years in the second story of the store building occupied at that time by Shirk & Miller, on the northwest corner of Broadway nnd Main streets. The aecessary steps were soon taken to build a church. A location was bought on the northeast corner of Main and Miami streets, where the church now stands.

Laying The Corner Stone

On Tuesday, Sept. 19, 1871, the corner stone of the new cdifice was laid, in the presence of witnesses, the ceremonies being under the directions of the Rt. Kev. Bishop Talbott, of this diocese. The other ministers present were the Rev. E. J. Purdy, of Logansport; Mr. Roberts, of Indianapolis; Mr. Cunningham, of Crawfordsville, and W. N. Dunham, the rector. At 3:25 o'clock p. m. these gentlemen marched from 'Trinity Chapel, corner Main ana Broadway, clothed in their surplices, and with heads uncovered, by twos, the bishop following the others. On the way they repeated the 122d Psalm. Arriving at the inclosure of the new building, they parted ranks and the bishop passed through. After brief exhortation and prayer the bishop called upon the Rev. Mr. Dunham to read a list of the articles deposited in the box, which he did, as follows:

The Holy Bible. The Book of Common Prayer. List of communicants. Names of ministers, wardens and vestry of Trinity parish. Names of building committee. 6. Journal of the proceedings of the thirty-fourth annual convention of the Diocese of Indiana, held in 1871.

7. Journal of the last general convention, held in 1868, together with the constitution of the church and a digest of the canons of the same.

"In the name of the Father and of the Son and Holy Ghost, amen, I lay the corner stone of the edifice to be here erected by.the name of Trinity Church, and to be devote to the service of the Almighty God, agreeably to the principles of the Protestant Episcopai Church in the United States of -America in its doctrines, ministry and liturgy, rites and usages. Other foundations can no man lay than that which is laid, even Jesus Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever more, and in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins. Amen."

Selections from thé Psalms were then read. The bishop was suffering from a severe cold, from which he was wheezing considerably, and which greatly interfered with his utterance. He therefore, in a few happily chosen words, introduced the Rev. Mr. Roberts, who, he said, would deliver the address with proper dignity and in a manner satisfactory to the audience.

The reverend gentleman coming forward, delivered a beautiful little address, from notes of which we give an imperfect synopsis. He said that while he felt incompetent and unworthy, he must, not refuse to stand up for God and bear his part in the service. Ever since intelligences were created God had been worshiped (1st) in heaven, the beautiful city beyond the clouds. Heaven, with its firmament bright and garnished; its jasper walls; its gates of pearl; its golden streets and its beautiful buildings; its light brighter than the sun. Through it flowed the clear and beautiful river. Its trees, that yielded their fruits without fail and whose leaves were for the healing of the nations. (2nd) God was worshiped in the firmament of the earth: by His first children, who stood by and witnessed His handiwork. 'They were present at the dawn of light. They saw man created in the image of God. 'The angels saw this work. 'They spake and sang. They yielded adoration supreme at every movement of His finger. Thus the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy. (3d) Man worshiped in Eden. Paradise was perfect i in earthly beauty. All its forms of beauty were perfect in harmony. 'The heavens rejoiced and the earth was glad. It was there the human form first bent in Godly worship. The speaker said he need not speak of the tabernacle and the temple, their beauty and perfection, built for the worship of Gud. From the creation until Christ worship was offered in beautiful houses. After that buildings were set apart as the work progressed. It must be a nice building, If it lacks beauty or is out of harmony it is unworthy the object. The kind of house in which we worship expresses our reverence for God and our love for Jesus. Nothing is too good for His services; money invested 1n a building for His worship is not wasted. Our house testifies to the importance of thé object. To be free with our own houses and penurious with the church of God argues little for our love of God; shows little interest in the sacrifice. They dwell in cedar houses, etc., etc. [A quotation which we failed to catch. J Children 6f this world render their houses attractive. The hotels, the public halls and the saloons are all adorned and made attractive. So should be the house of God. It should invite che wayfaring man and give him a comfortable home. It isa mistake to say that worship is fostered by a plain, homely building. A beautiful, well-finished church is well pleasing to God, if built for Him. Here you are about to erect a church in which the children of God are to be fed on immortal food; where souls are to be confirmed and strengthened by the laying on of holy-hands. While we are building on earth for Christ, let us never forget that he has long been building for us beautiful temples in heaven. He has gone to prepare a place for us. No gift, no service, no building will there be required.

May a temple be raised here for God's honor; in which his truth shall be proclaimed. May Christ adorn it with the trophies of his love. Our Lord is absent now building for us, while we are erecting temporary structures to His honor and in His name here. It is ours. to care for his cause. It sometimes seems that God's church is going into decay; that it is neglected by his children. Still, itis His church. It will not be destroyed. He will build no other. This is the only way. It might inspire our zeal while we are slumberinz sometimes to remember that God has left'His church in our keeping. Here you are building a church. He hoped God would protect them in their work and finally that they all might be raised to that immortal church in which there is no more work, where all that is left is to glotify Him in His beautiful temple.

After the close of this little address the clergy and others sang the ««Gloria in Excelsia," and prayer was offered by the bishop and the benediction was pronounced: The bishop then, in a few words, congratulated the parish on the progress and insured success of their enterprise.

spring of 1872. It is a frame gothic. 'The design was drawn by C. C. Haight, architect, of New York City. It has fine stained glass windows, many of them m-morial. The chancel windows are very beautiful, and are memorial windows for Bishops Brownell, Kemper and Upfold.

The Rev. W. N. Dunham was succceded by the Rev. John H. Weddell, who remained a couple of years. He was succeeded by the Rev. Dr. Mackay, who staid a year or two and was succceded by the Rev. Dr. Trimble. . After he left came the Rev. Joseph EK. Martin, who staid something over two years. After him came the Rev. William Burke, who remained in the parish about two years.

The church is now in charge of the Rey. Otway Colvin, who has been rector nearly seven years and has proved very acceptable to the congregation. Under his ministrations there has been a steady growth in the church.

The present officers are: Richard B. Runyan, senior warden; William F. Daily, junior warden, and Comfort E. Rutherford, Charles S. Dunn, Link Lieurance, James O. Cole, Edwurd H. Griswold and Frank J. Deibert, vestrymen.

In November, 1895, the Episcopalians commenced to erect a Guild Hall, just back of the church, facing on Miami street. It is a two story brick, in dimensions, 28x49 feet.

The Quakers

The Quakers or Friends have made considerable history in the United States and they form no small part of the solid, substantial christian people of this county. From the time of Fox and .Penn, the Quakers have been pioneers of the United states. They have followed in clusters the wake of the hunters and trappers, and founded here and there peaceful, happy and prosperous settlements. Harriet Beecher Stowe in Uncle Tom's Cabin very. beautifully and touchingly describes a Quaker home of Ohio, which is typical of a number in this county. 'Their pure and simple life says: 'Peace on earth, good will to men."

Just before the land sale in 1847, a number of Quaker families of Grant and Wayne counties, this state, settled in the south part of this county in the vicinity of Converse and Amboy. Nathan Arnold brought his familly from Wayne county in 1845. John Pearson and his brother Hiram, of Grant county, soon settled near him. The next year a number of families came, among them being Michael and Parker Hollingworth, and the Overmans, six brothers, and Joshua Canaday, Calvin Edgerton and David Reynolds. The first religious meetings were held at the home of the members. A log meeting house was soon erected and here they met for worship until 1865, when the present large frame church was build justnurthof Amboy. For many years they had no regular preachers. Among the earliest recorded preachers are Zimri Hockett, Mary Malott, Eliza Stanley and Rudolph Ridgeway.

Omish Mennonites

A very strong organization of the Omish Mennonites exists in the south part of this county in Harrison township. Members of this denomination began to settle in the south part of the county at a very early day. Abraham Hostetler arrived in March, 1848. Peter Stineman in July and Jacob Shrock in September of thesame year. In 1848 and '49 many more arrived. Among them were the Hershberger brothers and the Shrocks and Christian Smucker, Emanuel Hostetler, J oseph Troyer. All these came from Holmes Couuty, Ohio, and settled in Harrison township except Joseph Troyer, who located in Clay. But a few of them with later arrivals subsequently settled just across the line in Howard County, where a majority of the members now reside. 'he first meetings were held at the cabins of the various members and this custom was kept up for many years. The first meetings were conducted by visiting preachers from Ohio and Elkhart County, where a large organization existed at that time. Benjamin Shrock and John Smuck were the first located preachers.

About the year 1855 a general split occurred, which not only affected this organization but all others in this county. The split was caused not so much on account of doctrine as a difference 1n the practice of modern customs. The old line wing nas a small congregation of twenty-five or thirty members in. this and Howard Counties, the great majority belonging to the progressive branch. They built a church early in the sixties, which was used until 1888, and then a new frame 36x50 was erected. The membership of this church numbers about 160.

Other Denominations

The religious denominations, the histories of which have here been given, are the most important in numbers and prominence in the county. The history of other denominations will be given in full in the history of the townships. iv Pia The other denominations are- The Evangelical Lutheran, which has a large membership and a fine house of worship in Peru; the German Evangelical, which has a strong following in the south part of the county; the African M. E. church, of Peru; the Wesleyan Methodist. The United Brethren have a folfowing in all parts of the county.