Shelby County, Indiana - Chapter with an unread heading (no. 6 of those read), 1887 (part 1 of 2)

Religious History - Early Piety - The Methodist Episcopal Church - Its Classes at Marion, Shelbyville, Wrays, Boggstown, Brandywine, Fairland, Flatrock, NoRRiSTOWN, Marietta, Morristown, Fountaintown, Pleasant Hill, Waldron, Winchester, Ripple's, Toners, Geneva, Acton Circuit and Cynthiana - The Presbyterians AT Shelbyville and Boggstown - The Roman Catholics - The Missionary Baptists - The Disciples at Shebyville, Mt. Auburn, Morristown, Cave Hill,

ELIGION has never been without its humble devotees: but it is, indeed, a matter of wonder that in -iJ^ifiS'the primitive days of Shelby County such a large proportion of the settlers should have been zealous advocates of the cause of Christ, and wide-awake partisans of some Christian denomination. Books were few and newspapers were well nigh unknown; the mental activity was aroused and nourished almost whoUv bv attention to and meditation upon the great themes of religious thought. Plain, practical religion, found abundant welcome in the hearts of sincere, simple-hearted, earnest men and women. Almost eveiy denomination was represented among those who planted their homes within what is now Shelby County. The settler's cabin was scarcely completed before an itinerant was there with his Bible and hymn book gathering the families for devotion around the altar in the wilderness. Without the hope of remuneration, the pioneer preachers came to labor in the vinevard, foregoing all the joys of home, only to be instrumental in the salvation of souls. To those men, and their self-sacriticing devotion, do we owe the planting of churches and the hallowed iniiuences as seen and felt in society everywhere. One of the most common modes of worship was what was called "family prayers." There was then most emphaticallv an American edition of that pious old Scotch practice so eloquently described in Burns' " Cotter's Saturday Night."

Those strains that once did in sweet Zion glide. He wales a portion with judicious care; And, " Let us worship God!" he says, with solemn air.

Once or twice a day, in the morning just before breakfast or in the evening just before retiring to rest, the head of the family would call those around him to order, read a chapter, announce the hymn and tune by commencing to sing it, when all would join ; then he would deliver a most fervent prater. If a pious guest was present he w'ould be called on to take the lead; and in those days if a person who prayed in the family or in public did not pray as if it w^ere his very last on earth, his piety was thought to be defective.

Methodist E^iscofal Churchy Marion.^ - The first regular preaching place in Shelby County was at the house of Mrs. Jane Sleeth, one mile north of Marion. Later meetings were held at the house of William H. Sleeth. The Sleeths were native Virginians, and having enjoyed the privilege of religion in their native homes, they could not long forego that pleasure, and at once began to make preparations for religious worship here. In the fall of 182 1, John Sale, Aaron Wood, James Horn and William Beechamp held meetings at the above named places. x\fter a few years ' the school-house was used for a meeting place until 1840 when the societv which was known as Sleeth's Class, was removed to Marion, and the meetings held in the school-house until the erection of the present frame building in 1862.

A class paper, which is now in possession of Mr. Sleeth, of Shelbvville, reveals some facts of -interest about the early members and ministers, and reads as follows : "- Class paper of Sleeth's class for 1837, Shelbvville Circuit, Indiana Conference, Ministers in Christ, James HaVens, P. E.; Elijah Whitten, C. P.; John B. Birt, A. P.: Members of the Class - Jacob Winton, Class leader: Jane Winton and WiUiam H. Sleeth, Recording Stewards; Evahne Sleeth, Margaret Sleeth, Sarah Hacker, Caleb Sleeth, Thomas Hacker, Cyntha Kuster, Sarah A. Moflit, Robert Benefield, Stephen Giel, Nancv Giel."

This the oldest organization in Shelby Count}', has pursued its course with variable success for sixtv-six years, and is still in a vigorous and healthy condition. The present church house, which was built in 1862, is a commodious frame building, and with recent improvements that have been made, it will answer the purpose of the congregation for many years. Among the early ministers, the names of James Corwin and James Havens deserve special mention. They were both able and energetic workers. The following ministers have been assigned to this charge since 1877: T. C. Crawford, John Machlin, J. H. Doddridge, W. B. Clancy, Albert Cain, Frank Tincher, J. McCaw, and B. F. Morgan. The church membership at present numbers about 105.

S/ielbyville JMethodist Episcopal Church. - The introduction of Methodism into Shelbvville dates from the year 182^. Durino-that year prayer meetings were held at private houses and preaching was had in a few instances by ministers who were passing through from Cincinnati to Indianapolis. Revs. Jesse Hale and James Horn may be mentioned among the number. During the vear 1824, Rev. Hale administered the ordinance of baptism to the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Van Scyoc. The next year, 1825, the following settlers were organized into a class : Elisha Mavhew, wife and two daughters, James and Jerusha Van Scyoc and Mrs. Catharine Goodrich. These seven persons constituted the first Methodist organization' and their place of meeting was in the cabinet shop of Jacob Shanks, which stood on Washington street. Of these seven pioneer Christians much might be written, but suffice it to say that each of them lived to see the church, the foundation of which they had laid in the wilderness, grow, prosper and accomplish much good. Late in the fall of 1824, J. C. Sleeth came to Shelbvville from Virginia. Though he brought a letter of membership with him he does not appear to have been of the lirst class formed in Shelbyville, but not long after he became a member and a class leader. Mr. Sleeth built a log cabin on Tompkins Street, and a chair shop on the lot adjoining. Besides being used as a chair shop and post office it was also used as a place of worship, but for quarterly meetings Shanks' Cabinet Shop was used. These shops were privileged with hearing the eloquence of more than ordinarv men. Strange, the eccentric and eloquent; Wilev, the natural logician and organizer; Havens, the faithful and intreped apostle of the order; Hale and Sale, the rugged pioneers; Grifhth the pre-eminently good man, and many others of lesser note, but equally warm hearts here preached a gospel of love and full salvation. These old buildings have long since passed away and their existence is only known in the memorv of the oldest patriarch.

An old Revolutionary hero, by the name of Harsin, came to Shelbyville about the time of the organization of the church, but it is now a disputed question as to whether he was a member of the first class. He built a log cabin near where the C, I., St. L. & C» depot now stands. In his house prayer meetings were frequently held, which were always characterized by religious fervency. From Sleeth's and Shanks' shops, the society in a few 3'ears occupied the court house, and later, more permanent^, the brick school-house, standing on the ground of the present public school building on FrankHn Street. From the school-house they went, in 1832, to the first church building, which was just erected on Mechanics Street. In 185 1, a new church was erected on Washington Street, and was used by the congregation until the dedication of the present build-

In 1825, the Rushville Circuit was formed, with John Strange as Presiding Elder, and Stephen R. Beggs, preacher in charge. The circuit then included six towns, Shelbyville among the number. Within the safne territory there is now sixt}^ Methodist churches, and sixteen circuits, which require the services of twenty-eight preachers. Both Strange and Beggs were men of great ability. The latter left Indiana, and in 1832, became the first resident missionary to the few traders then in Chicago, and to him is due the honor of establishing the Methodist Church in that great city. Rev. Strange continued to preside over the circuit until the summer of 1S28, and the same year James Havens became the successor of Rev. Beggs. Havens continued with greater or less fre(juency as Pastor, Presiding Elder or Visitor at Shelbyville, until his death, which occurred in 1864. He was referred to b}' one high in official authority as the Napoleon of Methodist preachers in eastern Indiana, and to him he said the State owed a heavier debt of gratitude for the efforts of his long and valuable life to form society on the basis of morality, education and religion, than anv other man living or dead.

In 1828, x\llen Wiley succeeded Strange as Presiding Elder, and served in that capacity until 1833. James Havens succeeded to the place and served until 1836, when the Shelbyville Circuit was created. The pastors who served during the same period were : John Kerns, 1828; Joseph Tarkington and William Evans, 1829; Amos Sparks and J. C. Smith, 1830; Charles Bonner and C. Swank, 1831 ; S. W. Hunter and Isaac Kimball, 1832; I. N. Elsberry and David Stivers, 1833; Joseph Carter and C. B. Jones, 1834; Joseph Carter and Thomas Gunn, 1835.

The lefial existence of the Methodist Church commenced May 7, 1 83 1, with the following members constituting the first board of trustees: Dr. E. J. Beall, Ehsha Mayhew, George Harsin, David Thacher and Robert Telton. A lot was procured and a building 30x45 feet in dimensions was erected that answered the purpose for twent}' years. Besides James Havens, the circuit was presided over for the fifteen years ending in 1850, by Elders Augustus Eddy, L. W. Berrv and E. R. Ames. Rev. Elijah Whillen was preacher in 1836-37. During his term of service Shelbyville became the head of a circuit with twenty-two appointments. Quarterh' Conference was for the first time held in Shelb3'ville, consisting of the pastor; James Wra}' and J. B. Birt, local preachers; Peter Stemback, Absalom Paris, Archibald Clark and Barnabas Wrav, exhorters; David Thacher, John Nail, J. Michael, David Hacker, leaders; David Thacher, Edward Toner, Thomas G. Mendehall, William Farrow and W. H. Sleeth, Stewards. In the latter part of the thirties the venerable Dr. Robins became a steward, and since that time has served in all the offices of the church, and it can truh- be said that none has served the church more faithfully (^see elsewhere for sketch). Other pastors: John W. Sullivan and j. B. Birt, 1S37; James Scott and George Havens, 1838; Richard Hargrave and J. S. Barwick, 1839; H. S. Dane and J. V. R. Miller, 1840; H. S. Dane and J. D. Temphn, 1841; Jacob Mevers and James Webb, 1842: C. B. Davidson and G. H. McLaughhn, 1843; C. B. Davidson and S. P. Crawford, 1844; Seth Smith and James Corwine, 1S45; A. H. Shaeffer, 1846; James Crawford, 1847-48; John S. Winchester, 1849, ^^^^ John W. Sullivan, 1850-51. During the period from 1836 to 1850, the names of Voorhis Conover, Jeremiah Bennett, Isaac Sorden, Jacob Kennerly, Wilham Hacker, Cyrus Wright, T. G. and James M. Randall and Willis Wills, appear on the church records amono; those who were most active in the work. A parsonage was built during the same period and the church work put upon a solid foundation. Shelbyville Station was established in 185 1, and an official board organized with J. S. Campbell, W. Swift and Dr. H. Cowger as new members. The board of trustees purchased a lot on Washington Street on which to erect a commodious brick church. The enterprise was successful, and in August, 1852, the church was finished and dedicated on the first Sabbath of October - Bishop Osman C. Baker, officiating.

erts, 1S74-75. For this period there was nothing remarkable in the church's history except its rapid growth and spiritual enthusiasm. During this time many of the most scholarly and able ministers of the State preached here, among whom the names of Rev. Giles G. Smith and Thomas H. Lynch deserve special mention. The former was noted for his classical attainment and great power in the pulpit, while the latter was a most symetrical character.

Other members who were officially connected with the church as class leaders, stewards and trustees were : J. Nichols, N. Thompson, Elisha Smith, James Dorsey, E. T. Bussell, E. W. Wheeler, William Moore, William Randall, B. Pettit, J. H. Sprague, Joseph Smithers, Benjamin Powers, George W. Toner, W. S. Marsh, J. C. Green, Elijah Powell, W. S. Mahan, M. Robins, William Brown, J. S. Campbell, A. Davis, Thomas Devoll, H. Clarkson, A. O. Porter, Alfred Bowman, D. L. Conroy, Thomas Wray,

B. B. Cooper, Elias Thompson, J. K. Jamison, John Wise, Royal Jennings, J. A. Young, John D. Pierce, George W. Kennedy, J. M. Hester, J. B. Pugh, William Lacy, J. H. Enos, Sidney Robertson. In 1876 and 1877, Rev. George L. Curtiss served as pastor of the church with great acceptabilit}-. He is a forcible speaker, a man of classical learning, and has accomplished much in scientilic investigation. The church has been served since 1877, by Rev. J. G. Shafee, S. F. Tincher, J. K. Pye, and J. A. Sargent the present incumbent. During the incumbency of Rev. Chafee the old building was remodeled and enlarged. The basement is divided into four rooms which are used for class rooms, study and Sunday school room. The second floor consists of one large audience room 40x90 feet in dimensions. The church was dedicated in 1881, Bishop Walden, of Cincinnati, officiating. The estimated value of church propertv, including parsonage which stands on the corner of Mechanics and Tompkins Streets, is $20,000. The present membership is about 4C0. There is sustained in connection with the church a well regulated Sunda}' School as well as such auxiliary organizations as the Home and Foreign Missionar}' Societies.

IVray's Meeting House. - In the winter of 1S21 and '22, James and Thomas Wrav, with their wives and Huston Ray and wife, came to Shelby County from North Carolina, and settled in the woods about three mile northwest of Shelbyville. James Wray was a Methodist preacher, and after they had cleared a small tract of land and planted the corn, made arrangements for the organization of a Methodist Society, James Scott, who was in charge at Indianapolis at that time, visited the neighborhood and organized the church. The following year Revs. Jesse Hale, George Horn and John

Miller, were the pastors in charge. The house in which the church was organized was a log cabin built and used by James Wray as a dwelling. It was built of small logs or poles, and although not very commodious it answered both the purpose of church and residence for several vears.

The original members were James and Tabitha Wray, Thomas and Elizabeth Wray, Huston and Margaret Ra}-, Susan ah Bass, Guillia Beverly and Rhoda Templeton. The old log building in which the church was organized soon gave place to a larger and more comfortable structure which was used until 1829, when a large hewed log church house was erected on land donated by Col. Gregory and Capt. Templeton. The ground is now used for a cemetery just south of the site of the old church house on land donated by Benjamin Bass. A new frame w^ith modern improvements has been completed, and there a different generation worships. The history of Methodism of Wray's, now known as Center, is one of continued success, it has an active membership at present of about sixty. Rev. J. P. Pell is the present pastor.

Bogg'stozvn. - What was for several years known as Boggstown Methodist Episcopal Church, was organized at the house of Mr. Houo-h, and four years later removed to the house of Adam McFadden, one mile south of the present site of Boggstown. Among the original members were Mr. Hough and wife, Adam McFadden and family, William Edwards, Sophia*Edwards, Reuben Strickler and wife, Jackson Strickler, Caroline Strickler, James Donnelly, and David Smith and wife, and three families by the name of Carson. Besides at McFadden's, meetings were held at the Presbyterian Church and occasionally at the barn of a Mr. Casler, two miles south of Boggstown. In 1850, the present frame church was erected at Boggstown, and the society has since been known by that name. The church has had a hard struggle for life. It has passed through adversity and trials. It has suffered from its enemies within and its foes without, but has always stood the storms and at present has a membership of ninety-five.

Brandyzvinc. - The first effort to organize was made in the fall of 1827, and a meeting for that purpose was held at the house of Mrs. Seena, near Fairland. Until 1849, the date of the building of the first church, services were held at the houses of the following settlers: G. G. Harsins, Messrs. Dements and Quinn's. For the first few years the church had a hard stnifrcjle for life at Brandywine. Two parties of rough S(]uatters had camped, one north and the other east of the town. Between the two was a path crossing Harsin's farm. The squatters were an idle and worthless class, and had protested against the preaching of the doctrine of the Methodist Church in the community. They frequently held mock prayer meetings before the door of the settler's cabin. These proceedings so exasperated the Christian people that they rose in might and put a stop to such lawlessness. In 1847, Sugar Creek Circuit (now Fairland) was formed out of parts of Shelby ville and Edinburo- Circuits and Pleasant View Mission. Rev. E. R. Ames was Presiding Elder, and A. PI. Shafer, preacher. The church has been very prosperous. In later years, Rev. Mathew Sedgwick, a local preacher, did much good work. Thomas Hacker, now dead, was one of the most active members. He was an earnest, conscientious Christian, and devoted all his energies to the cause of religion.

Fairland. - The Methodist Episcopal Church was formed at Fairland in 1855. The moving spirit in the organization was Matthew Mitchell, who was at the time, pastor in charge of the London Circuit. The early leading members were: Thomas Hacker and family. Dr. Lewis and wife and Mrs. Hoskins. Thomas Hacker was class leader and Dr. Lewis, Steward. A church building was commenced in 1856, by Rev. George Winchester, and completed in 185S, under the pastorate of Rev. R. S. Barnes. The house was dedicated January i8, 1859, ^^' ^^"- ^- ^- Wood. A Sunday School was organized before the church was finished, with Dr. Lewis, Superintendent. This school has done good work for the children of Fairland and vicinity. It is safe to say that but few of the organizations have received more benefit from the Sunday School work than has this organization. Rev. J. W. Dashiel, A. M., who served the church in 1877, '7^5 ^^''^'^ oi^G of the ablest men ever connected with the circuit. He was followed by Revs. G. C. Clouds, B. F. Morgan. The present pastor, J. P. Pell, is now serving his third year. He is a native of Kentucky, where he was born in 1819. He has been preaching for many years, having been ordained in 1850. He served three years as Chaplain of the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry during the late war.

RobcrCs Chapel in Flatrock Circuit, about three miles below^ Flatrock Station, and twenty feet from the line between Shelby and Bartholomew counties, is a church representing the second oldest Methodist society in Shelby County. The society was formed in the fall or winter of 1822. Alfred Phelps came to Shelby County in 1824, settled in this neighborhood and immediately united with the church, and to him much credit is due. The original members w^ere Alfred Phelps and family. George Holmes and wife, John Ensle}' and wife, Mrs. Sallie Chambers, William Callet and wife. Dr. Sanders, although not a charter member deserves to be mentioned among the oldest. Alfred Phelps became a local preacher at an early day and did much effective work in that line. The meetings for ten years were held in the house of Mr. Phelps, and it was not until 1846 that a church house was erected. In 1845 was held one of the most famous camp meetings ever held in this section of the State, resulted in the conversion of manv souls. In 1870, the present large and commodious brick house was completed and the congregation is now one of the most prosperous in the county.

Flat rock Methodist Efiscofal Church. - In 1852, a frame church was erected about three miles southwest of Norristown, on Flatrock near Girton's Mill. Among the members of the church at the building were: Thomas Wooley, Richard Drake, Peter Messick and Mr. Vansyckle. The society worshipped here until 1870, when it was removed to Flatrock Station, and used the school until the present beautiful brick church was completed. This church was built at a cost of $3,000, two-thirds of which was secured bv subscription through efforts of Rev. A. M. Thornton. The remaining $1,000 was a beijuest by Mr. Warner, a \\ealthy citizen of Flatrock. The church is at the head of the circuit, and .has a large and flourishing congregation, with many opportunities for doing good. In the winter of 1878, Rev. J. G. Hood, the pastor in charge, was accidentally drowned while trying to ford the river. He was returning home from Tomer's Chapel, where he had been holding- church. A heaw rain had fallen in the afternoon and the stream was considerably swollen, makmg an attempt to ford exceedingly hazardous. The ford where he attempted to cross, a few rods above the railroad bridge, is deep and swift, and it is supposed that he could not withstand the force of the current and was swept away to a watery grave. Although hundreds went in search of the body it was not recovered for one month after the accident had occurred. The pastors who have served the church since the death of Rev. Hood, are: Rev. Morrow, J. E. Gullett, C. E. Line and L. N. Jones. The present pastor, Mr. Jones, was educated at Hartsville Uni^'ersity, and was ordained by the United Brethren in 1875, in which church he preached for ten years when he joined the Southeastern Indiana Conference.

A^orristozvn Methodist Episcopal Church. - This is among the vouno-est of the Methodist societies of Shelbv Count v. There had been preaching here occasionally by ministers of this denomination prior to the coming of Rev. William Maupin, of the Hope Circuit, in 1866. A class was organized with twelve members, John Rench, now deceased, being the first class leader and S. D. Spellman, first

Steward. Mr. Spellman and wife, George Newton and wife, Squire Deiwert and wife and Thomas Andres are the old members who are still living. It lias been a growing church, losing many by death and removals, but at present has a membership of ninetv. The class has no buildincj of its own, but has from the be^inninoused the old Union Church, which was erected many years ago.

Marietta Mct/wdist Episcopal Church was organized some time in the forties. For several years meetings were held occasional}' by itinerants, in the residences of the citizens of Marietta and vicinitv, and in the school-houses. The early ministers were those who have been mentioned as active in the organization of churches of other communities of the county. The Marietta class as it is known, was prosperous for many years, and large accessions were made in its history at different periods. In 1876, something in the nature of a calamity came, when many of the most active members withdrew from the Methodist Episcopal Church, and assisted in the organization of the Protestant Methodist Class, of which class they became active members. The building is a frame, and althou<rh it has been built for several vears^ is still in fair condition. The membership of the church is about seventy, and the value of the church property' is probablv $1,000., A well regulated Sunday School, under the supervision of Mr. H. A. Hageman, is maintained throughout the year.

Morristcncii Circuit. - Of the church organizations which now constitute the Morristown Methodist Episcopal Circuit, the Asbury Methodist Episcopal Church was the tirst* established. Soon after the land of Shelby County had been surveyed, and the land office opened for the sale of the same; emigrants came rapidl}- and in a short time a settlement was made in the northwest portion of Hanover Township. Those settlers had come from sections that had long enjoved the comforts of civilization, and they did not long forego the pleasure of religious worship. They at once began to gather at the cabins and have some kind of religious services. It is probable that the first meeting, at which a minister was present,, was held at the house of Jonathan Johnson in 1822. In the following year, as nearly as can be ascertained, a hewed log-house to be used for both school and church purposes, was erected. This was a very comfortable building with a brick chimney and the pulpit in one corner. The families that constituted the organizing members were : Jonathan Johnson and wife, Thomas Gadd and wife, Henry Watts and wife, and Joshua Wilson and wife. Two of the earliest and most prominent members were John Strange and James Havens. They are the pioneer preachers to whom the Methodists of Shelby County owe much. There was scarcely an early class in the organization of which they were not the most potent factors; Rev. John Stover was the first regular circuit rider. Other early ministers, who afterward became distinguished in the church work, were : Bishop Ames, L.W. Berr}^ andj. V. R. Miller. In 1839 ^^^ present frame building which now belongs to the cemetery association was completed at a cost of $400. S. W. Ingram was the contractor and Henry Watts, Joshua Wilson and Jonathan Johnson, building committee. In 18S3, because of the inconvenience of the location the old house was abandoned and in the same year the new brick edifice was completed and dedicated, Simpson Tincher preaching the sermon. Mr. W. W. Woodyard was the architect of the new building and superintended the Avork. The name of W. A. Bodine deserves to be especially mentioned because of his liberal contributions, and active interest taken in the work. The total cost of the building was $4,600, all of which has been paid. The Stewards are: Frank Tyner and Mrs. John Miller. Trustees - W. A. Bodine, J. M. Tvner, W. W. Wood3^ard, the last named being the Secretary. The society which at present number ninety-five, is under the pastoral care of Rev. B. F. Morgan, a native of Franklin County, where he was born in 1831. He received his elementary training in the district schools after which he spent one year in Hartsville University. He was ordained in the United Brethren Church in 1859, with which church he worked until 1870, when he joined the Southeastern Indiana Conference.

Foitntaiiitown iMcf/iodisf Episcopul Church. - After the abandonment of the old MetliiDdist Episcopal Church which stood east of Fountaintown, a new class was formed in the town in 1857, by Revs. P. I. Rosecrans and Thomas Rav, and attached to the Palestine Circuit, of which William G. Ransdall was preacher in charge. The church had for its first class leader Isaac Robinson, and for steward, Ezra Fountain. A house of worship was commenced in 1874, '^"^^ finished in 1876, Rev. W. B. Nichols, pastor. The church was dedicated free from debt and remains so yet. The church which for several 3'ears had a small membership, was recently blessed with a revival which resulted in fifty accessions to the church.

Pleasant Hill Chur'ch was formed at the house of John Glenn, in 1830, and retained the name of Glenn's Society for thirty years. John Glenn, as well as Andrew Derickson, who was the first class leader, long; ai^o left the neifjhborhood. Near the old Glenn residence a substantial frame church has been erected; for which Rev. David Whitcomb and Benjaman Walker deserve the credit. The present board of trustees is composed of John Yearling, John Briley, John Gaines, Oscar Gatewood and George Phares. Stew^ards,

John Yearling, John Briley and John Mohr. The following pastors have supplied the pulpit for the last several years: Rev. Jamison, Tincher, Gullett, Clancy, McCair and the present pastor, Rev. B. F. Morgan.

Waldrou Mdhodht episcopal C/iurch. - This is the consolidation of the Middletown and Conn's Creek societies. The Middletown Society was established in 1836, with Frank Toler as class leader, and Revs. Whittien and Birt, preachers. Conn's Creek was organized in 1849, at the cross-roads, now the site of Waldron. Some of the original members were: William Knight, Elizabeth Knight, Levi Kmght, Reitter Chaplett, Washington and Mary Bliss, and Margaret Vanpelt. The meetings were held at the school-house and at the residences of the members until 1858, when the present brick church was erected. From this date the society took the name of Waldron. Soon after the erection of the church at Waldron the society at Middletown disbanded and almost the entire membership absorbed by the W^aldron society. The pastors who have served this church for the ten years last past are : George Winchester, J. C. Gullett, Alexander Jameson, William Grubb, and the present member John Scull. The officers are : Trustees, J. J. Curtiss, Henry R. Ming and A. H. Raymond. Stewards, Mrs. R. R. Washburn, Mrs. Elizabeth Washburn and A. H. Raymond. The membership of the church is about fifty. The Sunday School and missionary societies are the auxiliary organizations.

Winchester. - Shadlev's Society known as Winchester, is five miles south of Shelbyville, on the line of the Norristown pike. The meetings were held at the house of Mr. Hadley until 1848, when it was moved to the house of Mr. Thomas Maddy. In 1850, a frame church 26x36 feet was built at a cost of $420. Thomas Maddy and WiUis Wills were president and secretary respectively of the board of trustees and were the most active in the building of the house. Prominent among the early members were the Shadley familv, Charles Thompson and wife,"^Mrs. John Monroe, T. H. Wherret, Hannah Wherret and Kitura Green. The frame church above mentioned was replaced bv a substantial brick house, dedicated by Rev. Sampson Tincher, D. D., in October, 1872. The church and its surroundings, which include a cemetery, are kept with scrupulous care. Among those who w^ere active in the building of the church, the following deserve special mention : Andrew Maple, Thomas Thompson, Job D. Tindall, John A. Gore and John W. Wilson. Other old members are. Susan Tindall, Jacob Guill, Mary Guill and Adaline Young. The membership is eighty.

recent years, when it was changed to Union. The first preaching was held at the house of Mr. Ripple, one of the old settlers, who afterward moved west, but is now long since de'ad. The class next occupied a school-house until 1S49, when a frame church was erected. x\fter worshipping there for fifteen years, the old building was abandoned for a new one which was dedicated in rS64. The Greens, McFalls and Thompsons are among the few of the old members who still remain. Washington Green, Thomas Foster and Andrew Jackson are Stewards, and Rev. John T. Skull, pastor.

Toners' Chapel, four miles west of Shelbyville, became a preaching place in 1836. The services were first held in a log house erected as a union church near the site of what was long; known as the Hill Gravevard. After a few years a school-house was built near the residence of Mr. Hill, not far from the present brick school-house, and in this the society worshipped until 1S45, when the present frame building was completed. The leading and most active workers were Edward Toner, Martin Toner and J. M. Barwick.

Geneva. - The oldest and most active members of the Gene^'a class are David J. Conger, Delilah Conger, John M. Edward and Fidelia Edward. Meetings were held in the school-house until the completion of the frame church. This house was built at a cost of $1,000, and is yet in a good condition. The trustees are: John M. Edward, James B. Israel, W. W. Keehng, David J. Conger and John T. Conger. James Bowls and William H. Jones are Stewards, and Dr. W. W. Keehng, Sunday School Superintendent. The membership of the church is forty-one. -

Acton Methodist Episcopal Circuit. - Two of the churches of this circuit, viz., Landan and Canaan, are in Shelby County. The former has been organized for many years, the precise date being unknown. This class has never been strong in numbers, but there has always been a display of earnestness in the work that is characteristic of the true Christian. There are at present about fifty active members, of whom William Clayton, John Sleeth and family, Joel Crum and wife, Jordan Perry and wife, and Margaret House are among the oldest members. The present frame building, which has been used for more than twenty vears, is still in good condition. The trustees are : Mar(]uis Case, Joel Crum, William Clayton, Jordan Perry and F. Sleeth. A Sunday School, which is well attended and from which much good has resulted, is now under the supervision of William Clayton.

frame, in which the people have for many years gathered together to listen to the word as it fell from the lips of the many who have served them as pastor. The old members are : Amos Wilson and wife, Amelia Campbell, John Willis and wife, J. C. Wilson and wife and Samuel Rollings and wife. The trustees are: Amos Wilson, Samuel Rollings, Robert Phares, Tames Moore and Wri<>-ht Borning. James Reed is Superintendent of Sundav Schools. The names of those who have been in charge of this circuit since 1880 are as follows : Revs. W^illiam Nickols, R. L. Kinnear, Albert Cain, Alexander Jameson and J. H. Burton.

Cynthiana Methodist Episcopal Church was organized and a church built in 1854. Henry Fisher, Thomas Jones, William Fisher, M. E. Macaughlev, J. N. Marshall were the most active in the establishment of the church. The church is weak and at times has almost been abandoned. The membership at present is about sixteen. The Christian Union members hold meetings occasionally in the same building.

First Presbyterian Cliurc/i.^ - In the rude and primitive logcabin home of Zebulon Wallace, in the centre of Hendrick's Township, on a calm, serene Sabbath morning, July 7, 1824, a small company of worshippers met to hear the preaching of the Cross of Christ by the Rev. John McElroy Dicke}-. It was then and there that thirteen Presb}-terians were constituted into a church, under the care of the Presbyter}- of Salem, and the Holv Communion was administered for the tirst time. In honor of Providence Church, of which some of them had been members in their former places of abode, they named it New Providence Church. Those who, on that memorable morning, subscribed to the solemn covenant of Christian fellowship as a church of the Presbyterian faith and order, were: Elijah Kirkpatrick, Martha Kirkpatrick; Archibald Gordon, Nancy Gordon, James Hill, Elizabeth Hill, Catharine Hill, Miss Lizzie Hill, Zebulon Wallace, Seneh Wallace, Thomas Vaughan and Sarah Vaughan. Father Kirkpatrick was the first Elder, and Mr. Vaui^fhan the first Deacon.

The founders of this church, however, so deeply felt the importance of the Sanctuary to the well being and safety of a communit}'^, that they planted the church in the wilderness. On the nth of October, 1824, it was duly enrolled by the Presbyter}^ and Rev. Dicke}^ was appointed to supply it one Sabbath during the interim of six months till next Presbytery. Nine months before the church was established, the Presbytery of Salem had been begun. It was then in the Synod of Kentuck}-, but in the year 1825, the Synod of Indiana composed of the three Presbyteries, Salem, Madison and

Wabash, was formed, and on the loth of April, 1826, this church was transferred to the Presbyter}- of Madison, and Rev. Dickey again appointed pastor. At the full meeting of the Presbytery, October 7, 1S26, the church reported to the Presbytery, fifteen, one added during the year, and an increase of two since organization in 1824. Mr. Dickey was admirabh' adapted to the work of church planting on the frontiers. He devoted several years to it, and founded a number of churches now on the roll of the Synod. Fie was in the very prime and vigor of his manhood at 'the time, having been born in the State of South Carolina, December 16, 1779- He was of Scotch-Irish ancestry, that so honorably enter into the history of the Presbyterian Church. He served successively the churches at Washington, Lexington, Pisgah and Graham, and died November 21, 1849, much lamented. From 1827 to 1829, inclusive, the following ministers served this church : James M. Duncan, Joseph Trimble, 1827; Samuel Gregg, 1828; Samuel G. Lowry and William Sickles, 1829. During the same period, Rev. George Bush served at times. Rev. Bush was the first minister of the Presbyterian church ordained in Indiana. He afterward became a great Oriental scholar and professor in the University of New York.

To Rev. Eliphalet Kent belongs the' honorable distinction of being the first permanent clergyman who had charge of the church. Rev. Kent was a native of Vermont; graduated at Williams' College in 1825, and at Auburn Theological Seminary a few years later. He came to Shelbyville under the direction of the American Home Missionary Society in 1829, and preached at various places until 1835, when he was assigned the church at Greenwood. After Rev. Kent the church was supplied by Rev. W. W. AVood. Then came the interestinp" ministry of Rev. Wells Bushnell, a native of Connecticut, and a graduate of both Jefferson and Princeton Colleges. After seven years' pastorate at Meadville, Pa., he came west and divided his labors between Greensburg and Shelbyville. Rev. J. G. Monfort, Rev. Charles McKinney, Rev. Samuel Orr, Rev. A. T. Hendricks, Rev. James Gilcrist and Rev. John M. Wampler, and Rev. Caldwell, were each assigned by the Presbytery of Indianapolis. The necessity for a church building became so urgent that steps were taken in this direction, and in December, 1839, Messrs. Thomas H. Fleming, Aaron Bennett, Thomas Vau^han and Dr. William McCoy were elected trustees, in view of the erection of a church building. They first purchased the entn-e square upon which the old brick church now stands. Several lots were sold to good advantage and the proceeds applied on the building. The house was a frame structure 40x50 feet in dimensions, and cost about $2,500. The building was plain, the lumber used being undressed. A plain cupola adorned the roof, in which the now historic bell, that has so often called the worshippers to the house of God, first sent forth its sonorous sounds. This church was completed and dedicated early in the forties, and was used as a place of worship until the completion of the old brick building, which until recently stood on the corner of Harrison and Broadway streets, and which was dedicated the first Sabbath in September, 1853. It was under the management of Rey. Caldwell that this church w-as built. Besides property yalued at $1,000, hberal contributions were made by the members, the largest of which were by Thomas Vaughan, Major Hendricks and Samuel Hamilton. The contractors were Messrs. Malone & Baker, and the entire cost, including furniture, was $4,500.

Among early clerg^ymen of the church the name of Abram T. Hendricks, a brother of the late Vice President Hendricks, deseryes prominent mention. He was one of the first of the clergy of the Presbyterian Church who receiyed their education and theoloa'ical training^ west of the Alleghany Mountains, he beintr an alumnus of Hanoyer College. He seryed as chaplain in the late war with fidelit^- and usefulness. He died at Petersburg, Ind., July 24, 1866. Rey. Caldwell seryed the church until 1858, with marked ability, and he is yet remembered by the older members with affectionate tenderness. Rey. William Bishop seryed the church for a short time, and was succeeded b}' Rey. James J. Sm3-the, a graduate of Trinity College, Dublin, and of the Uniyersity of Glasgow. He served the church seven ^ears, and his ministry here was most successful and prosperous. Next came Rev. Charles P. Jennings, who had several years before served the church very acceptably. The church w'as never more prosperous than when under his pastoral charge. He is described as a man of fine personal appearance and dignified manners, a ripe scholar, of varied and extensive acquirements in theolog}', general literature and physical science, and as a pulpit orator easy, graceful and always interestini^^.

During the year 1870, know^n in the church as Memorial year, the pulpit w^as supplied by Rev. J. R. Walker, of Greensburg. Rev. George Sluter, A. M., was elected pastor in December, and in January, 187 1, entered upon the discharge of his duties. He was a man of scholarly attainments and of much intellectual strength. Like most men who five more with books than with people he was generally believed to be selfish. It is probable that he lacked the necessary social qualities to secure uniform support, and to insure unity in church work. He served the church for nine 3^ears and during the time there was much good accompHshed. In Decem- ber, 1880, Rev. George D. Marsh was elected to succeed Mr. Sluter. He was a voung man with but few years" experience, but by his uniform courtesy he soon won the esteem and contidence of his congregation. He was a man of much intellectual force and an orator of great brillianc}'. He was fluent in speech, and in rhetorical finish, his sermons are said to have been beyond criticism. During his stay here he was a great sufferer from a complication of diseases; he died in the fall of 1883, much lamented by his congregation who almost idolized him. During the ministry" of Rev. Marsh the movement which resulted in the erection of the present elegant church edifice, was set on foot. The building was completed under the pastorate of Rev. Hughes, to whose influence the success of the undertaking is very largely due. The work was put into the hands of a building committee composed of the following gentlemen: John Blessing, John C. Deprez, Silman Morris, Joseph R. Stewart, G. W. F. Kirk, and F. C. Sheldon. The plans and specifications by D. A. Bohlen, architect, and the contract for the erection of the builiding was purchased by Elijah Victor. The building was completed in less than nine months, and was dedicated m April, 1885, the sermon being preached by Rev. J. L. Evans D. D., of Cincinnati. The entire cost of the church building was $21,000. The congregation owns a frame building on East Franklin Street, which through the instrumentality of Mrs. Dr. S. D. Day, was erected for the benefit of a class that was beyond the reach of the other church. This division of the church is under the pastoral charge of Mr. Sanford Morris, a lay preacher, and be it said to his credit that he has accomplished what, perhaps, no one else could have done.

Rev. Thomas L. Hughes, the present pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, entered upon the discharge of his duties in December, 1883. He is a regular graduate of Princeton College and Lane Theological Seminary. After completing his literary course at Princeton, he studied and practiced law in Cincinnati, but soon abandoned the profession, and in 1876 was ordained to preach. His sermons are delivered without notes but never without the most careful preparation. His discourses are clear and logical, and always appeal to the reason rather than the emotions of his auditors. As a pulpit orator Rev. Hughes has but few equals. He is much beloved by his church, and is the pride of ever}' member.

Second Presbyterian Church {German). - Was organized at the instance of the Indianapolis Presbyter}^ New School in 1867. Preliminary meetings, with this purpose in view, were held at the house of Father Shutt early in said year. The or<ranization was effected by Henry Burkher, Sr., Mathias Schoelch, John De Prez,

George Posz, Henry Hale, John Maholm, August Schwall, John Mohr, Jacob Stephens and John Shutt; Rev. Francis F. Friedgen was hiro'elv instrumental in brinijinfj about the result. He served as pastor until March, 1872, when he was succeeded by the present pastor, Rev. I. Eshmeyer, who was educated in Germany and ordained in 1855. Previous to his pastorate here he served as pastor at Tithn, O., Toledo, O., and at Indianapolis. Until 1872, services were held in the old Presbyterian Church, which stood on the corner of Harrison and Jackson streets. In said year the brick church on East Washington Street was completed at a cost of $6,500, Henry Burkher being the largest contributor. The church prospered beyond the most sanguine expectations of the members, and in the latter part of the seventies the communicants numbered about 140. Early in 1880 dissentions arose and differences between the pastor on one side and a large number of the most influencial members on the other, having failed to be amicably adjusted, about sixty-five of the members withdrew. The church at present is in a healthy condition and has about forty-nine active members.

The Boo-os/ozcn Prcshxtcrian Church, was organized in 183 1 or '32, bv the Rev. E. Kent and William Woods. The meeting for this purpose was held in the old log school-house which stood near the town. Those who constituted the class as organized at that meeting were: William Morgan and wife, Joseph Boggs and wife, William Manwarren and wife, John White and wife, Mr. Vandebelt, and Mrs. Hopper. Other old and prominent members who became members soon after the organizatian were: Joseph Carson and wife, Hugh McFadden and wife, George W. McConnell and wife, John T. McConnell and wife, James Barngrover, Stephen Collins, Whallen Gibson and Dr. Smeltzer and wife. Soon after the organization preparations were begun for the erection of a frame church house; was probably completed in 1S33. This house was used until 1852, when the present frame building costing $2,500 was completed. The old frame building is still standing and is now a part of the residence of Mrs. Rhoda McConnell. After its organization Rev. Kent served the church as its. regular pastor for four years. He was followed by Revs. Dunning, Cable, Wood, and Gilcrist. The church has at times in its history been quite prosperous, but at present its membership is much depleted, and its prospects for the future not encouraging.

Catholic. - " In the settlement of Indiana and the Northwest Territory, the CathoHc Church, through the agency of its missionaries, played a most important part. If they were not the first to explore, they followed quick in the path of those who led the way into the unknown region, and began the work of civilizing and

Christianizing the savage tribes of the forests. For their self-sacrificing devotion, and tlie fervency and zeal of those followers of the Cross, they have been the admiration of the civilized and Christian loving people of the world. To the Jesuit Fathers, Indiana owes much, indeed, it is now a well-established fact that the first white man to enter the Territory, now Indiana, was a French Jesuit from the mission at St. Joseph. From this time until the first celebration of Mass at Post Vincennes, the work of the missionary was attended with many danrjers, and not a few became the vietims of savage butchery. But for the last century the growth of the church has been almost phenomenal, and to-da^^ there is scarcely a nook or corner in the State but that these devotees of Christ may be found. The first Catholic who settled in Shelby County was, according to good authorit}', Mrs. Mary Cornell, a native of Maryland, who probably settled here as early as 1824.*" In 1825, Mr. and Mrs. L. H. Worland, of Scott County, Ky., came to visit Mrs. Nancy Young, a sister of Mrs. Worland, and settled permanently in 1826. John Newton and family came in 1827, and Thomas Worland and family in 1828. The latter was a generous and pious Christian, and with him the Priests and Missionaries always found a pleasant and comfortable home.

Rev. George Elder, of St. Pius' Church, Scott County, Ky., came on a visit to his former spiritual children in the fall of 1828. The holy sacrifice of Mass was then offered for the first time in Shelby County, in the rude log cabin of Thomas Worland. He preached in the school-house where, by his eloquence, he attracted large audiences, although many no doubt, attended through curiosity,. a Catholic priest at that time being looked upon with awe and astonishment.

Rev. S. P. Lalumiere was sent by Bishop Flaget, of Bardstown, K}'., to visit the Catholic families of Shelby County in 1830, coming twice a year, in the spring and fall. A few years later he was accompanied by Father Petit, a Jesuit, on a missionary tour through Indiana, preached a short mission here, during which George Lows, was baptized and received into the church. In 1834, Rev. S. T.. Baden, and in 1836, Joseph Femedmg, visited here, each remaining but a short time. In August, 1837, Bishop Brute sent Rev. Vincent Bacquelin to take charge of the congregation as resident priest. He was a native of France, a man of zeal and activity, and soon gained the love and esteem of his people. In July, 1S38, Bishop Brute visited the congregation and administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to thirteen persons. The zealous Father Bacquelin held a meeting January 6, 1838, to consult as to the propriety of undertaking the erection of a church editice. The result was that action was at once taken toward this end, and in September a contract was let for $619. In October, 1839, Mass was lirst celebrated in St. Vincent's Church; and in October, 1840, Bishop de la Hailandiere visited the congregation, blessed the church, and confirmed seven persons. Father Bac(|uelin, after nine years' service at this church, was thrown from a horse September 2, 1846, and almost instantly killed. This sad event caused deep and lasting regret among his people, who mournfully followed his remains to their last resting place in St. Vincent's cemetery-.

From 1847 to 1855, the following priests served as pastors: Revs. John Ryan, John McDermott, Thomas Murphy, John Gueguen and Daniel Maloney. In May, 1855, Rev. Edward Martino\'ic became pastor, and in 1861, with the assistance of Mother Superior of the Sisters of St. Francis, he established a Catholic School. The Sisters' home and school-house are each of brick, two stories high, and located in a beautiful grove near the church. Father Martinovic, who was very much beloved by his congregation, left in 1863, and was succeeded bv Rev. John P. Gillig. He served until 1868, when Rev. William Dovle was assigned to this place. In November, 1868, Joseph Rudolf became pastor of St. Vincent's. In 1870, the parsonage was built, and in 1877, arrangements were made to build a new church, which was completed in 1880. The new church is a very line brick building, 112x43 feet, with a steeple 138 feet high. In May, 1881, Father Rudolf left St. Vincent's and was succeeded by Rev. Francis G. Torbeck, who remained in charge of St. Vincent's and St. Joseph's congregations until June, 1886. Under his ministry the parsonage at St. Joseph's was completed. Until June, 1886, both congregations were attended by the one pastor, but since that time each have been provided separatelv. The present pastor at St. Vincent's, is Rev. Michael L. Guthneck, who for the past eight years has served both St. Patrick's and St. Michael's at Cannelton, Indiana.

ShcUryviUe Congregation. - There were Catholics living in Shelbvville as earlv as 1825, but the congregation was not organized until 1865. Priests at St. Vincent's had charge of Shelbyville; also they had services in private houses a few times a year at the houses of Dr. Michael French, Joseph Lucas and Thomas O'Connor. In 1865, Father Gillig, appreciating the necessity of a church in Shelbvville, at first rented a hall of Samuel Hamilton, which was used temporarily. The lot upon wdiich the church now stands was bought, and under the supervision of Father Doyle, not without much hard work, the church was completed. There was no parochial school in connection with St. Joseph's until 1 881, when the present school building was completed, at a cost of $2,500. The school is in charge of the Sisters of St. Francis, and is in excellent condition. In June, 1886, Rev. A. Kaelin, a young man of ability and excellent social qualities, who was ordained in June, 1882, was assigned to the pastorate. Father Kaelin served as pastor of a German congregation at Vincennes from the time of his ordination till his appointment at this place.

JMiss/'uiiary Baptist. "^ - In the settling of Shelby County, persons came from different localities, some from one State and some from another. As they came they settled in neighborhoods. One of the early settlements in the county was live or six miles northeast of Edinburg. Among their number w^ere a few Baptists. In their new homes, rude as they were, they longed for gospel privileges. Hence in thisoieighborhood the few Christians met alternately at their houses and held prayer meetings, until in the spring of 1823, when nine persons, (viz.:) Thomas Russell, Polly Russell, William Barnet, Nancy Barnet, Lewis Bishop, Elizabeth Bishop, Simon Shafer, Sarah Shafer and Merit McGuire, were organized the hrst day of March, 1823, into a Missionary Baptist Church. They held their meetings at the houses of the members- and neighbors until 1826, when they built a hewed log house on a lot bought of Mr. Isaac Harvey, in the edge of Johnson County. The church occupied this house until 1832, when a frame house on the same lot, was built. In 1843, this house was destroyed by lire, and the church immediately commenced to build a third house one mile northeast, in Shelby County at a cost of about $1,200.

Of the constituent members, it may very truthfully be said that they were earnest and faithful Christian men and women. Rev. John Barnet, was the first pastor of the church, sustaining that relation until 1825, a very godly, earnest preacher. He was succeeded by Rev. Samuel Hardini^, who served the church until his death in 1835. Following him as pastors were: Revs. T. C. Townsend, A. R. Hinkley, B. Reece, A. P. Titton and S. G. Miner, all pioneer ministers worthy to be remembered. Rev. S. Harding was one of the tirst to engage in efforts for the founding of Franklin College, was one of the constituent members of the general association (now State convention). The church sent out a colony to organize a church in Franklin, Johnson County, Ind., also one to form the second Mount Pleasant Church, which are now, strong vigorous churches. The mother church is extinct. Among the early members worth}' to be remembered, we may mention Waggoner and wife, Pierson and wife, Matthew Kelly, Sen., and wife, John Duckworth and wife, all of whom have gone to their reward.

The next Baptist Church organized in the county was in the town of Shelby ville, the county seat of Shelby County. Amonor the few inhabitants of the town there were some Baptists. They felt the need of religious priyileges, hence Rey. S. Harding and Rev. D. Stogsdil were solicited to yisit the town and preach to the people. On the third Saturday in October, 1S26, there was a Baptist church organized with the following persons as constituent members, (viz.:j George Titus, William Morris, James Emmit, Hannah Titus, Patsy Morris, Phebe Emmet, Sally Gatewood, Catharine Wingate, Morning Simpson and Sally Hippers, making ten in all. This church was hrst called Shelbyyille, which name it bore until February, 1883, when the location of the church was moved four miles east of Shelbyville, when it took the name Bethel, retaininij this name a short time when it took again the name of Shelbyville, and iinally was called Mount Pisgah, by which name it is still known. The meetings of the church for about eight years were held at private houses, but in December, 1832, the church resolved to build a hewed log house 28x36 feet, to be covered with clap board. For seats, rude benches were hewed out of logs- Rude as this house was, it was in keeping with the times, and these pioneer Christians were happ}^ in their humble Sabbath home, and many were the precious seasons enjoyed in this primitive sanctuary. This house was used until the year 1853, when the log house was removed and a frame house built 22x30 feet, on the same lot. The church occupied this house until 1865, when they resolved to build a frame house 36x50 feet, costing $2,000. This last house is still occupied Ij^' the church as their place of worship. Rev. Samuel Harding was her lirst pastor. Rev. D. Stogsdil was one of her first pastors, a ver}- earnest, faithful minister, often walking sixteen miles to meet his appointments. The church now numbers about no members, with a flourishing Sabbath School. Rev. J. Reece served this church as pastor about twenty-seven years.

TAe Mt. Gilead Baptist C/iurch located in Hendricks Township, was organized on the 27th day of May, 1S30. Ministers present in the council were Rev. C. Butler and Rev. Samuel Harding. After an appropriate sermon by Rev. S. Harding the council was organized by electing Rev. S. Harding, moderator, and Lewis Morgan, clerk. Neither the names nor number of the constituent members can be given, but we may mention Alexander Miller and wife, Levy Laingor and wife, Thomas McFerrin and wife, Mrs. Lucy Miller, Mrs. Updegraff, as among the early members of the church. Among the earh' pastors were Rev. S. Harding, Rev. John Reece, Sen., Rev. B. Reece. They held their meetings at private houses until 1843, when a log house 24x24 feet was located on John McCray's land. This house was used until 1848, when a frame house was built on the farm of Jesse Laingor. This house was finished in 1848. June 22d, 1872, the church voted to build in Smithland, about one mile southeast of the present location. Said house was dedicated January 28th, 1873. In the year 1858, a number of the members withdrew by letter, and constituted a church in Marietta. This church soon dissolved and a part of them came back to the mother church. The histor}' of the church has been varied between prosperity and adversit}'. x-Yt the present time it is in a very bad condition. The church propert}- is worth about $1,300.

The Brandyv.'ine, now Fairland Baptist Church, was constituted July 30, 1832, with the following persons as constituent members, viz.: James V. A. Woods, Lewis Morgan, D. A. M.Morgan, Wm. C. C. Morgan, Henry Serber, A. M. Morgan, Levi Bishop, Johathan Bishop, Justice Hubble, Phebe Pope, Elizabeth Riggs, Sarah Oldham, Nancy Morgan, Nancy Surber, Nancy Oldham, Nancv Hubble and Mar}- Bishop. The church was first located near the town of Brandvwine, six miles northwest of Shelbvville. The location was changed to Fairland in 1859. From 1832 to 1837, services were held from house to house. The third Saturday in June, 1833, the church resolved to build a house of worship, which was not finished until 1837. The first sermon preached in the new house was b\' Rev. William G. Eaton, the third Satvu^day in ]May, 1837. This was a frame, and was built in the town of Brandywine, on a lot donated by Lewis Morgan, and was 30x46 feet. The present house is a frame 36x50 feet, and ^^^as built in the town of Fairland, on a lot donated by David Bradly. The first meeting in this house was in Januarv, i860, preaching by Rev. John Reece. The house was dedicated to the service of God the first Sabbath in February, i860; sermon b}' Rev. M. G. Clark. Among the earlv pastors of the church we may refer to Rev. S. Harding, Rev. Lewis Morgan, Rev. D. Stogsdil, Rev. William G. Eaton, Rev. B. Reece, Rev. T. C. Townsend, J. M. Smith, Rev. J. Thares and J. Reece. Among the earlv members of the church outside of the constituent members we would mention J. Brimm and wife, Jeremiah Odell and wife, Joseph Odell and wife, Abraham Bishop and wife, William Bishop and wife, George Debourd and wife, Isaac Bishop and wife, and W. C. E. Wanee and wife. These, with others, did much to sustain the cause. The church has had seasons of prosperity and adversity.

The Second Mount Pleasant Baptist Church was organized July II, 1835, at a school-house in Hendrick's Township, Shelby County, Indiana, six miles east of Franklin, Johnson County. The names of the constituent members are as follows (viz.) : Joseph Reece, John Webb, Nancy Webb, Samuel Tetrick, Benjamin Reece, Sarah Reece, Henry Williard, and Mary Kelly. The council organized by choosing Rev. S. Harding, moderator, and Rey. L. Morgan, clerk. For two years or more after the church was organized, they met for worship at private houses, in the woods and in the schoolhouse where the church was organized.

January 2, 1836, the church agreed to build a house of worship Avhich was located six miles northeast of Franklin, in the edge of Johnson County. The house was a frame, 30x40 feet, 14 feet story. The church occupied this house until June 10, 1865, when it agreed to build a brick house, on or near the old site, the size of the house to be 40x60 feet, 18 feet story. Satururday, July 2, 1868, the building committee reported the cost to be $4,413.56. May 14, 1881, the church agreed to re-roof the house with slate, and added a belfry, all of which cost $900. Rev. Benjamin Reece was the first pastor, serving the church until his death, which occurred November 9, 1853. He was very successful, and under the blessing of God, built up a strong church. Rev. John Reece assisted B. Reece a part of the time. There have been received into the church about 850 persons. The constituent members deserve to be remembered for their faithful, earnest Christian work. The church numbers at this time about 280 members. Besides the constituent members, the following deserve to be remembered as active workers in the church (viz.) : John Williard and wife, William A. Reece and wife, William Needham and wife, Ephrain Tucker and wife, William Webb and wife, with many others, that did good service in the cause of Christ.

After the Baptist Church, which was organized in Shelbyville in 1826, and changed to the country in 1832, there was no further effort made by the Baptists to establish a church in the town until in the summer of 1848, when the State Convention of Baptists placed Rev. John Reece under appointment to labor half time in Shelbyville. The first sermon preached by him was in November, 1848. The service was held in the old court house, with twelve persons present. At that time there were but live Baptists in the town. The meetings were held every two weeks until March, 1849, when a church was organized with thirteen members, viz. : William E. Midkiff, Mary Midkiff, Thankful Bassett, Olive Bassett, Samuel Midkiff, Agnes Midkiff, Elizabeth T. Brown, Eliza Robertson, LA'dia Rodiffer, Ruben Deboard, Eliza Deboard, Jonah Bassett and Mary Veach. These were all true and tried men and women. For some years the church had quite a struggle to live, having no house of worship. In the winter of 1849, the members resolved to build a brick house, 40x60 feet, but this was not fully completed until 1S63. This house was sold for $4,500, a new one, costing $17,000, built. The church has had a steady but slow growth, so that now, in 1887, it numbers about 250 members. Names that should be remembered in the early history of the church are: Z. T. Bullock and wife, L. C. Janes and wife, A. J. Vawter and wife, x\nn Stewart, and Oscar D. Padrick and wife, with many of later date. Little Blue River Baptist Church is located in Union Township, Shelby Count}^, about seven miles northeast of Shelbyville, and was organized on the second Saturday in March, 1828, at the house of Thomas Golden, with the following persons as constituent members, viz. : Thomas Golding, Sarah Golding, Jane Golding, William G. Morris, Nancy Morris, Jacob Rosel, Barbara Rosel, John Golding, John Derrickson, Eligah Cotton, Peter Dewitt, Tally Wicker, Bette Ann Wicker, Jane Cherry and Elizabeth Brown. For some time the church held their meetings at private houses. The first church-house erected was a log structure, which served the church for several vears. A good degree of prosperity attended the labors of the church while occupving this primitive sanctuary. In time the church built a frame house 40x60 feet, which is occupied at the present time. For some years the growth of the church was slow. About 1839 and ^^4°' ^"*^ from that time up to the present, the church has enjoyed a good degree of prosperit}-, numbering now 250. The church has been very fruitful in turning out ministers of the gospel, having sent out six in all, viz. : Rev. James M. Smith, who has been very successful in winning souls to Christ. He has labored in Indiana, Iowa and Missouri, and at this writing, 1887, is actively engaged in the work in Missouri. Rev. M. B. Phares, n-raduated at Franklin College. His ministrv was confined to Indiana. He died at Greenburg while serving the church as pastor. Rev. D. J. Huston received a liberal education at Franklin College; is at this writing actively engaged in the ministr3\ He spent several 3'ears as agent for Franklin College. Rev. John Phares entered the ministry when about fifty years old, not possessing very great literaay advantages, yet made a very successful minister, is still living. Rev. William Golden proved to be a very acceptable minister and w^as quite successful. Rev. George W. Zike labored for a time in the Baptist connection, and then went to the Wesleyan Methodist. All of the above were converted and united with the church. The first pastor of the church was Rev. William Oldham. Rev. Landy Hurst succeeded him in the pastorate and served the church in that capacity several years. The first marked prosperity was under the pastorate of Rev. Joshua Currier. Since that time the church has had great success.

The Goodwill Baptist Church is located in Hanover Township^ Shelby County, Ind.: was organized in May, 1S59, with the following constituent members, viz. : Presly Morris, Rebecca Morris, Oliver Morris, Elizabeth Merideth, Archibald Canady, Eliza I. Love, Thomas Merideth, Deliah Talbert and Jesse A. Gibson. This church was organized through the influence and labor of Rev. John Phares who was her tirst pastor, and served the church in that capacit}' for six years. Through his labors and the blessing of God, the church was prosperous. Rev. Hendricks succeeded him, durinix his ministry trouble came and the church lost some ijround that had been gained. Following him was Rev. Renales, Rev. A. C. Hume and Rev. Crews. The church at this writing numbers fifty members, and have a pretty good frame meeting house.

East Union Baptist Church is located in Moral Township, Shelby County, Ind. The constituent members came from the Pleasant View Baptist Church. It was through the labors and influence of Rev. J. M. Smith that the church w^as organized. The following persons were in the organization which occurred March I, 1S67: Lindsey Leonard, Lucinda Leonard, A. J. Joyce, Hetuvia R. Joyce, Margaret T. Joyce, Archibald Mann, R. C. Mann, Letia Mann, B. P. Mann, Caroline Mann, Emily Russel, Julia A. Ross, Telitha Ross, O. D. Mann, and Eliza E. Mann.

The church was constituted at the Center school-house, and for some time held her meetings there. They had no pastor until September after it was organized in March, 1867. In September, 1867, Rev. J. M. Smith was called, and accepted the call to preach for the church one-fourth the time, the church agreeing to pay him thirty dollars per annum. He served the church about two years. The church has been, a large portion of the time since her organization, without a pastor, which has been a great hindrance to her growth. April 16, 1868, the church agreed to build a house of worship, said house to be a frame 36x40 feet fourteen foot story. Revs. J. Reece, A. C. Hume, and B. Buckhanen have served the church as pastors. Rev. Crisp is the present pastor. The church at this writing numbers ninety members. The church sustains a fine Sabbath School.

Pleasant View Baptist Chiuxh is located in the northwest corner of Moral Township, Shelby County. It was organized December 28, 1836, consisting of the following members, viz. : James Bobbett, Archibald Mann, Elijah Mann, Elijah Vice, George Hume, Jacob Balor and J. M. Johnson. Rev. T. C. Townsen was chosen moderator, and J. Bobbett, clerk of the council. One thing remarkable about this church in its organization, there was not a female in the constitution, but the meeting held January 29, 1837, the follow^- ing persons united with the church, viz. : Susan Vise, Elizabeth Mann, Margaret Bobbett, EHzabeth Grain and Mar)' Joyce. At this meeting Rev. T. C. Townsend called as pastor. For the first 3"ear's service the church paid him $10.12^. Among other ministers who served the church as pastors may be mentioned Lewis Morgan, D. J. Huston, J. Pv. Philips, E. B. Smith and J. M. Johnson. The church has been depleted very much by removals. It has sent out three colonies to form other churches. Among the persons who deserve to be mentioned are Lewis Morgan, H. Keeler, the Meanes and the Joyces, with many others.

Brookfield Baptist Church is located in Moral Township, Shelby Countv, on the C, I., St. L. & C. R. R. It was organized in March 24, 1866. Neither the names nor number of members in the organization are given. Rev. J. M. Smith was chosen pastor of the church, who served as such for a number of years, when he was succeeded b}- F. M. Buchannan in Julv, 1S69, serving to June, 187 1, when the church called Rev. A. J. Martin, who served until July, 1874. Rev. H. McCalip called August, 1872, serving until 1874. Rev. T. J. Murphy called September, 1874, serving until April, 1876, when Rev. F. M. Buchannan was called Ma}', 1876. The church maintains a good Sabbath School. The present membership is 56. The church has a good brick house, worth about $2,000.

It will be seen from the above, that there have been seventeen Baptist churches organized in the county, with the following, which are now extinct, (viz.:) Hopwell, Sugar Creek, Waldron, Forks of Blue River, and Marietta.

The Disciples of Christy or Christians. - The years following the first settlement of this county, were made memorable by the relio'ious awakeninp" in the west. The stron<x battlements of denominational exclusiveness were being attacked and carried by storm. People would not accept the dogma of any denomination without the authority for such dogma could be found in the Bible. Anything else was human innovation and unworthy of belief. As a result new doctrines were evolved and old ones modified. The reformation started by Alexander Campbell, Barton Stone, and Walter Scott grew^ in magnitude and extended far beyond the limits contemplated by the originators. The teachings of Alexander Campbell were considered heterodox by the Baptists with whom he had hitherto been associated, and in 1827 they severed all"' connection with the reformers, who then organized a new church which was called by them the Church of the Disciples of Christ or Christian Church, but by their opposers the Campbellite Church. The cardinal principle of their organization was the rejection of

S/icIbxT/lIc Christ ia)i Church. - Among the first to be converted by the teaching of Alexander Campbell was Father Obediah Butler. He at once became an apostle of the new religion, and soon had a sufficient following to organize a church class', which was effected in the spring of 1B34. The meeting for that purpose was held at the house of Ovid Butler, that stood on the southeast corner of the public s(|uare, the present site of Teal's block. The little band that met Father Butler on that occasion and who constituted the charter membership of the church, was composed of: James M. Smith, Sallie Smith, John Weaklev, Nancy Weakley, Silas Jaen and wife, George Bates and wife, E. Knowlton and wife, Ovid Butler and wife, and Spencer Thaver and wife. Of the history of this church for inany years following its organization but little is known. Whatever of historic value there was has passed into oblivion with the death of those early members. It is known, however, that the organization was kept up, and at the time of the coming of Mrs. Martin Ray and her mother, Mrs. Nancy Cross, both devovit Christians, meetings were occasionally held, although of unfrequent occurrence, and often without the assistance of a minister. The members were few and poor, and could not afford to pa}^ for the .services of a preacher nor build a house in which they might meet to worship. But hungry for religious associations they met in the dwellings, which for the time thev' would transform into the temple of God. They came not to mock, but to pra}' and worship, and no -doubt from that little band of believers, arose the pure incense of unsullied faith and conscious and unwavering consecration. It is believed that God looked down with the same, if not deeper and more perfect approval than he does now upon the piles of stone and brick, covered and burdened with the elaborateness of ornament till the human eye is wearied to behold. Meetings are remembered to have been held in the second storv of the building now occupied by Ziegler's restaurant. Here it was that Rev. New, the father of Hon. John C. New, preached. He was a man of great earnestness, plain and practical, very pronounced in his likes and dislikes. Revs. O'Kane and Prichard may be classed among the pioneer preachers of the Christian Church of Shelby County. They were both men of rare ability, forcible speakers and conscientious workers. It is probable that the best type of a pioneer preacher was found in Rev. Decatur Davis, who occasionally preached at this place. He was illiterate, and it is said by one who knew him intimately that he read no book but the Bible, and that he had

In the early part of the tifties the old organization was revived, and meetings lor a time held in Concei't Hall. The lot upon which the church now stands was bought and the foundation for a building laid. Sufficient money could not be obtained to erect a buildin"- and the lot was in a few vears sold at sheriff's sale. It was redeemed, however, and in 1867 the present frame building was erected thereon. The church is 40x60 feet, and with its improvements, costing $2,500, made during the present year (1887), the property will be worth $6,000. A few of the older members who worked hard to sustain the church during its struggle for existence, were : Bailes Coats, Jacob Wagoner, Isaac Woods, E. M. Wilson, Mrs, Nancy Cross, Susan Ray, Mother Davisson, Mr. and Mrs. Wingate and the Weakleys.

The present officers are: A. P. Bone, Dr. Clayton, J. L. Raymond, and Charles Culbertson, Elders; John Toner, senior and junior. Dr. E. W. Leech, T. J. Claycraft, John Whitehead and John Dobbins, Deacons; A. P. Bone and Wilham A. Moore, Trustees.. The following are those who have more recently served the church in the capacity of pastor: Revs. Goodwin, Davis, Hughes, Wilson,, Burroughs, Hopkins, Roberts, Stanley Ackman, Samuel Tamlemon, J. H. Edwards, at present a missionarv to Australia, and the present pastor, H. H. Nesslage. Rev. Nesslage is a native of the Empire State, where he was born August 22, 1854. He received his elementarv training in the schools of New York City, and at the age of twenty entered Bethany College, West Virginia, where he remained for four years, completing both the literary and theological courses. His first work was at Bellefontaine, Ohio. Rev. Nesslage is a young man of both natural and acijuired ability, and is an - earnest and consciencious worker.

One of the greatest auxiharies of the church is the Sunday School, which is now under the management of Mr. Charles Culbertson, Superintendent. The attendance is large and much interest manifested.

Mt. Auburn Christian Church. - Through the efforts of Joseph Fasset, the following httle band of Christians were organized into a church at Mt. Auburn in the summer of 1837: William Record and wife, M. J. Nelson and wife, Giles Holmes and wife, Isaac Rodgers and wife, Joshua Nolton and wife, and Elisha Townsend and wife. Of this number, Mr. and Mrs. Record are the only survivors who still retain their membership in the church. C. M. Allen and wife, William Cutsinger and wife, and Abner Conner, although not members at the time of organization, joined soon after, and are now among the oldest and most respected members. After Fasset, William Irwin and T. J. Edmondson served the church for many years in the capacity of pastor. Rev. John Brazleton, of North Vernon, Ind., the present pastor, has served the church in a most acceptable manner for many years. The first building was of logs and was probabh- completed as early as 1840. In 1854, th^ present frame house, costing about $800, was completed and dedicated, and with the additions and recent improvements, it is in fairly good condition. The present officers are: Elders - C. M. Allen, Thomas Clarke and Henrv Lisk. Deacons - John Clarke and Cutsinger.

The jMorristoiL'ii Christitui Churcli is the outo-rowth of the old Hanover Class, which was organized in the latter part of the thirties in a school-house which stood in Section 23, Hanover Township. Many of the early members and ministers were formerly Baptists, having been constituent members of a society of that denomination, which was established at the same place as early as 1824. Rev. Isaac Benjamin having renounced the creeds and doctrines of the Baptist Church became one of the most earnest supporters of the doctrines of the Church of Christ, and many of the members left the old church and with him as their pastor, organized the new. Among the most prominent earlv members were the Coles, Stones, Bloods, Dyers and Caulkins. Elder Butler was probably the lirst regular pastor, after Benjamin. Revs. HolHngsworth, Hurst, Hobb, Smith, Dabbinspike, Franklin, Land, Rayens, Conner, Mc- Duffey and Campbell, all served the church in an earh' da}-. In 1843, a large frame church house was erected, and although it has stood for almost a half century, it is still in good condition, and is an evidence of the character of work done in those davs. Within the last twenty years the membership of the church has been composed largely of citizens of Morristown and vicinity, and the convenience of having the church located in or near the town was universally conceded. The present brick edifice costing $3,800, was completed and dedicated in 1880. The officers of the church are: H. B. Cole, Trustee; John Keaton and William Carney, Deacons, and Jesse Robinson, Elder. The membership is 125. Rev. Prichard, of Indianapolis, is the pastor in charge.

Care Mill C/in'stia)i Churcli is located on Flat Rock River, in Washington Township. Meetings anterior to the organization were held at the private residences, and in one of the rooms of the old mill, as early as 1855. It is probable that no permanent organization was effected before 1859 or i860. While the organization was yet in its infancy, the tocsin of w^ar was sounded, and so universally did the male members respond to the call of their country, that the church was almost deserted, and suspension became necessary. Prominent among the members of this first organization were: Dr, Norris and wife, J. C. Deacon and wife, Elder Higgins and wife, Sarah Bone, Stephen Knowlton and wife and Mrs. Harvey. Rev. John A. Williams was the first pastor. After the war had ceased and the survivors had returned, steps were at once taken to reorganize, but this was not effected, however, until early in the seventies. A frame church house was erected near the old water mill, and the church is now in a prosperous condition. The ministers who have served the church are: John Williams, Revs. Mc- Gowan, Huff, Finle}^, Howe and Brazleton.

Fouiitaiiitozvn Christian Church. - It is probable that more than a half centvu-v ago the members of this denomination held services in the vicinit}^ of FountaintovN-n. The birth place of this church was two miles east of the present site of Fountaintown in what was known as the Pope neighborhood. The organization was effected in the old Methodist Church with the Popes, Davises, Dobbles, Duncans, Roans and Robinsons as active members. Meetings were, for several 3'ears, held at the residence of Peter Pope, and later at a church house built in the Pope neighborhood, which was destroyed by fire about ten 3-ears after its erection. Earlv in the sixties the present church was erected. It is a frame structure and cost $1,800. The members who were active in building and sustaining this church and who deserve special mention in this connection, were : James Conner, D. Holt, James Smith, John O'Kane and Rev. Walker.

Christian Center is located near Gwynnville in Hanover Township. This society was first organized at Beach Grove, probably as early as 1850, bv the Rev. James Conner. Active in the organization were the Darmers, Swains, Pollitts. McConnels, Wests, Bogues, Webbs, Alexanders and Rigbees. The pioneer ministers of this church were: James Conner, Decatur Davis, Thomas Lockhart, Rev. Blackman, Aaron Walker and Noah Walker. After the lapse of a few years the place of meeting was changed, and the school-house of District No. 6, was used as a place of worship. In 1870 a frame church costing $1,500 was erected on a lot donated by Mr. Gwynne. This is located three-fourths of a mile east of the town. The present membership is about forty. The officers are: John Alexander, Benjamin Duncan, Alfred Pollitt, George Hayes and J. R. Harris, Trustees: J. W. Alexander and Hamilton Watson, Deacons.

not been preserved, and consequently a complete history of this d^~ nomination is impossible. From the best information obtainabl^' the first meetino- held by a United Brethren minister ^vas at ^ school-house which stood near where Michael Billman now lives' in Marion Township. It is probable, however, that no permanent organization was effected at this place. The next meetingplace was on a tributary of the Big Blue River, near where old Kingdom Church was afterward built. The first religious exercises of this neio'hborhood were held in the barn of a man by the name of Thornberry. Other meetings were held in the woods and at private residences. Early in the forties what was known as Kingdom Church was organized, and a hewed log house 30x36 feet was built in Section 30, Hanover Township, near the line separating said township from Union. This house was used only for a short time after the erection of the Blue River Chapel house, which was probably completed in 1S55, at a cost of $1,600. The house is a frame structure 35x45 feet in size, and having recently undergone some needed repairs is now in good condition. Among the early members, the following deserve special mention: Bowerses, Copples, Billmans, Frenches, Boohers, Bolibaughs, Carmonys, Montgomerys, Talberls, Nighs, Youngs, Andersons, Workmans, Sleeths, ]MA-ers and McCombses. Among the early ministers Rev. George Mooth (probably the organizer), Jacob and Daniel Storer, J. T. Vardeman, Amos Hanway and T. G. Conner were the most active. The church is now in a prosperous condition, and has a membership aggregating 155. A well regulated Sunday School, under the supervision of Miss E. Meyer, is sustained.

Winfall United Brethren Church is located in Section 27, Van Buren Township, and was organized more than forty years ago by Rev. Mooth. The meeting's were for many years held in the school-house which stood near where the church has since been erected. Many of the members who participated in the organization came from the old abandoned church of Fairview. A neat frame church house was erected in the latter part of the sixties, and probably cost $1,200 The dedicating exercises were conducted by Bishop Edwards. Of the early members, the names of Joseph Dungan and wife, George Boss and wife, Noah Miller and wife, and Hardy Wray and wife, deserve special mention. There are probably not to exceed seventy active members at present.

The third church of the Blue River Circuit, as to time of organization, is situated in the northeast corner of Hanover Township, and was organized in 1877. A house was not completed, however, until 1880, when the present frame building was dedicated by Bishop Weaver. To Rev. Felix De Munbrum, a Frenchman of both eners'v and ability, is due the credit of oro-anizincr this church. The active members of the church are: W. S. Robbins and wife, Mrs. Rutherford, Miss Ball, ]Mrs. Van Scvoc, George Ball and wife, James Arnold and wife, Riley Wagoner and wife, and AMlliam Mver.

Liberty United Brethren Church. - The house in which this society now worship was built more than twenty years ago by the Baptists and Christians, but has for several years been abandoned b}^ them, and is now controlled b}'- the United Brethren. This class was organized in i8Si, by Rev. McNew, with a charter membership of about fifteen.' Prominent among the members are : Leander Fox and wife, William Farris and wife, John Unger and wife, and Richard Roan and wife.

Methodist Protestant Church * - Revs. Peter Clinger and Hawley, came as missionaries to this county as early as 1832 or 1833, and established preaching at Joseph Hewitt's, in Hanover Township; at Caleb Reeves', in Moral Township: at John Carson's, in Sugar Creek Township, and perhaps at Tandy Brockman's, in Hendricks Township. Churches were organized at the above named places sometime in 1833 or 1S34: At Hewitt's, by Joseph Hewitt and wife, Thomas Gadd and wife, Re\'. Samuel ^lorrison and wife; at Reeves', by Caleb Reeves and wife. Rev. Ditto x\mos, wife and daughter, Phineas Woodberry and wife, Daniel Zumalt and wife, Frank Amos and wife, Hiram Banks and wife; at Carson's, by John Carson and wife, James Johnson, Sen., and wife, William Carson and wife, Joseph Johnson, Sen., and wife, Thomas Hacker. The names of the chartered members at Brockman's are not given because their house of worship is just across the line in Johnson County. In 1840, the Rev. Thomas Shipp was called to the pastorate of these churches and organized a church at the Kern schoolhouse in Van Buren Township sometime within the year. Shipp was continued, and the ensuing year he organized at William C. Davis's in same township, with the following: William C. Davis and wife, Samuel and Hugh Hamilton and wives, Finley Bud and Avife.

In 1850, Rev. Harvey Collings, organized the church at Morristown with the followino-: Rev. Henry Fletcher Levis and family, Cyrus Johnson, Samuel Boretz and wife, Belinda Johnson, Martha Morriston, Mariah Hewitt, WilHam Judd. Dr. William W. Riedon assisted by others organized a church in Freeport, in 1866, of some tW'Cntv members, amongst whom were xVrchibald Millis and family, Harriett Kinsley and others. In 1843, James Johnson, Sr., donated a lot to the church, and a house was erected thereon cost- ing some $1,200, at Boggstown. In 1850, Samuel Hamilton gave a lot to the church, and a log house was built immediately. This was used until it was superseded by a good frame structure in 1S71, costing $i,Soo. About 1S52, a site was secured and a frame house built costing some $1,500. About the same time a lot was secured near the Kern school-house and a house built worth $1,300, which has been taken down and that lot disposed of and another secured; house not yet built. A lot was obtained in Morristown, and a good commodious frame building erected in 1858, costingsome $1,600. In 1886, a lot was donated to the church at Freeport and a neat substantial frame house erected valued at some $1,500.

It mav be said of Peter Clinger and associates, that the}- were "John the Baptist" of the Methodist Protestant churches in this county. They prepared the way, blazed the paths, marked the stations, started the camp-fires. They often had to swim swollen and angry streams. It was a maxim with all pioneers never to miss an appointment. Succeeding these were: Thomas Shipp and Samuel Morrison, residents of the county. Later, but who passed away ere they did, was Dr. William W. Rigdon, whose labors were more local, nevertheless owned of God and abundantly blessed. Rev. John Bogle was another who most nobly and faithfully performed his part. But perhaps none did more in gathering in and reviving than Rev. Harvey Collings, who labored for some seven years, mostly in this county. The earh' reformers who stood by and sustained the church, deserve perhaps as much credit as the ministers. They did a great deal of private work, and at camp and quarterly meetings were side by side with the minister. At alter service manv of them were a mighty power for good. Some of them would do anvthing for the church of their choice. As in the case of Thomas Hacker who walked to an annual conference held in Cincinnati and secured a preacher and brought him home with him rejoicing. Names of churches: Boggstown, Old Union, Marietta - pastor, Samuel J. Jones: Sugar Creek, Fairview, Freeport - pastor, John M. Heim; Morristown - James G.Smith, pastor. Membership, some 800 or 900. Valuation of property, $8,500. Old Union was organized soon after the doctrine was first preached in the county. They for several years met in the old log church of the Methodist Episcopal Church, but later built a good, substantial frame which is still in good condition. The church is strong and in a a-ood condition. The last class of said denomination was organized at Marietta, about the year 1876. Its membership was made up largely of a faction who withdrew from the Methodist Episcopal Church. A large, frame building wa: erected in

The German Evangelical Protestant. - Zion Church, which is located in the southern part of Union Township, was . organized in 1836, and incorporated ten years later. The meetings were held in the residences of members and in the neighborhood schoolhouse, until 1845, when a small log church house was erected near the site of the present building. Among the early members and these who were prominent in the organization, the following may be especially mentioned: George M. Haehl, John J. Haehl, Conrad Haehl, Peter Neeb, Henry Naegle, Jabob Gegenheimer, Valentine Freitag, John Fuchs, Adam Smith, George Burk, George Cowein, John Ohmer, George Keppel, John Keppel, George Zeisz, and G. M. Becker. The old log building served for the church for more than twenty years, a new building- havincr been erected in 1868. This frame structure is large and commodious, and was built at a total cost of $4,000. The first pastor was Rev. Rice, who during his pastorate served the church most faithfulh\ The following pastors have served in the order named: Revs. Huhnholg. Miller, Caltenhaeuser, Teichmann, Flick, Brandstettner, Baumann, Sachs, Auker, Wetterstroem, Richler, Kissel, and the present pastor. Dr. G. G. Winter. The church has a steady growth, and now numbers in the aggregate about 198 members. The present ofhcers of the church are Michael Gegenheimer, Conrad Kuhn, George Haehl, Valentine Posz and Michael Kuhn. The fact that Dr. Winter, the present pastor, has served the church for seventeen 3'ears speaks for his acceptability.

Shelby viJle Evangelical Protestant. - The organization of the Shelby ville congregation was perfected June 11, 1880. The organization of this church was the outgrowth of a division in the German Presb3"terian Church. One faction of said church, about seventy in number, becoming dissatisfied with the minister and his teachings withdrew, and applied to Dr. Winter for the organization of an Evangelical Protestant Class, which was effected as above. The meetings are held in the Christian Church building, the church as yet havinp" no buildinfj of its own. The buildin"' fund which at present amounts to $700 is rapidly increasing, and the erection of a new building is now in contemplation. The oflicers of the church are: Henry Burkher, Chris Abel, Conrad Schroeder, John Schoelch, Lewis Koch, Rudolph Hilpert and George Schaepfel. Dr. G. G. Winter (a sketch of whom appears elsew^here in this work) who has served as pastor since its organization, is a native of German}^, where he completed both a literary and theological course. He was ordained to preach in 1868.

The SoiitJicDi Methodist Episcopal Churchy of Shelb}' County, had its origin in the consolidation of said denomination and the Evangelical United Brethren (Repubhcan United Brethren). The first move with this general object in view, was in conference, held the third Friday in August, 1869. It w^as unanimously agreed that the proposition should be submitted to a vote of the members of the Evangelical United Brethren Organization, and the result was -the ratification of the action of the conference and the union was according!}' effected in November, 1869. The onl}' organizations of this sect in that time which are still in existence were Eno-- lish Chapel and Pleasant Valley, both in Noble Township. (The records of the church having been recently destroyed, no authentic information can be obtained.) A few years later, New Bethel and Center, in Washington Township, and Geneva Mission, near the town of Geneva, in Noble Township, w^ere established, which makes in all, five organizations in the county. Those who have served in the capacity of pastor for this circuit are : Revs. Caldwell, Murrell, B. F. Rogers, John Branoteller, T. C. Hawkins, J. P. Glass, V. P. Thomas, Leonard Aimes, John Gilliam, Enoch Crow, J. T. Walers, R.J. Watts, and S. H. Gregory, who has been a regular traveling minister since 1880. The buildings of the church are: English Chapel, brick, Pleasant Valley, Geneva and New Bethel, each has a comfortable frame building, while Center owns no property.