Freeborn County, Minnesota - Chapter 26: Albert Lea Churches, 1911

Chapter 26: Albert Lea Churches

Early Settlers Were Devout Men - First Religious Services - Sto¬ ry of the Various Religious Bodies - Original Organization - Early Pastors - Later Day Pastors - Dates the Buildings Were Erected - Various Activities Connected with the Churches - - Former Churches.

Fortunately for the future of Albert Lea. a majority of the moving spirits of village and township in the early days were God-fearing men, with rigid standards of moral conduct. In 1856. Isaac AY. AIcReynolds came to the township, and although not a regular member of any conference, he held meetings at various places, administered the comforts of religion to the dying and per¬ formed the last sad rites over their bodies. Alay 3, 1857, Rev. Syl¬ vester X. Phelps, of the Methodist Episcopal denomination, held a service at AYilliam Kellar s, a mile southwest of the courthouse, and preached the first Gospel sermon ever delivered by a regularly ordained preached in Albert Lea. From this sermon dates the re¬ ligious history of Albert Lea.

First Presbyterian Church. In pioneer times the people thirst¬ ing for spritual ministration in the wilderness to which they had come, did not trouble themselves greatly about denominational differences. Rev. S. G. Lowry, a Presbvterian, and Rev. Isaac AY. AIcReynolds. Methodist lay preacher, conducted worship in the village of Albert Lea in the early days, the services being at¬ tended by the Christians of all denominations. In July, 1858, a union Sunday school was organized in the old log house, all the scholars except Clarence AVedge, then very young, being adults. In the fall of the same year. Rev. Stephen Cook, a Con¬ gregationalism came here from Austin and held services with a view to organizing a church. Six persons expressed a willingness to join such a church, and although of the six three were Congregationalists and three Presbyterians, out of deference to Rev. Cook it was decided that the church should be a Congregational body. The original six were Airs. Alary F. Armstrong, Air. and Airs. J. F. Perry, Air. and Airs. Samuel Eaton and Airs. Brock AYoodruff. After Rev. Cook, the Rev. Philo Canfield served the congregation several years, but his poor health prevented real ac¬ tive work on his part.

Russell B. Abbott

burg, Penn., came here hunting, and owing to poor hotel accom¬ modations were invited to the home of Augustus Armstrong, where they were entertained. Learning of Mrs. Armstrong's in¬ terest in church work, Dr. Paxton offered to preach for the Congregationalists at their Sunday meeting. The two men were well treated here and made many friends, becoming so enthusiastic that they determined to see that a church was built here. But it was hardly to be expected that their Presbyterian friends in the East would erect a Congregational church for the people of Albert Lea. Accordingly it was proposed that the CongregatiOnalists here, a part of whom had originally been Presbyterians, organize as a Presbyterian church. As there is little difference between these two church bodies, except in matters of government, the peo¬ ple accepted the offer and organized a Presbyterian church. At the present time such an offer would not be made, much less accepted, but the circumstances at that time were different, and the need of a church edifice was great.

In accordance with Dr. Paxton's suggestion, eighteen faithful attendants at such services as had been held here petitioned the Presbytery of southern Minnesota to organize a church here.

In response to this petition, the Presbytery appointed Bev. D. C. Lyon and Rev. A. J. Stead a committee to meet the petition¬ ers, and, if the way should be clear, organize the church. Accord¬ ingly? on the 29th of September, 1868, these brethren held a meet¬ ing for this purpose in the courthouse in Albert Lea. Rev. S. G. Lowry and Rev. Theophus Lowry, of the Presbytery of Mankato, were present by invitation, and assisted in the proceedings. The church was then formally organized, under the name of the First Presbyterian church of Albert Lea, with the following members : Benjamin Brownsill, Mrs. Elizabeth Brownsill, Curtis B. Kellar, Samuel Eaton, Mrs. Clarissa Eaton, Mrs. S. M. Robinson, Mrs. Eliza Hunt, Mrs. Harriet J. Barden, Mrs. Mary F. Armstrong, Samuel Thompson, Mrs. Amanda Woodruff, Mrs. Darrow, Mrs. Henrietta Ruble, Mrs. C. E. Sheehan, Thomas Sherwood, Clarence Wedge, Mrs. Mary Buell. Samuel Batchelder and William L. Squier. Samuel Batchelder, Samuel Eaton and Curtis B. Kellar were elected ruling elders, to serve respectively one, two and three years. A public service was held in the evening; a sermon was preached by Rev. A. J. Stead and the elders were ordained - the charge to them was given by Rev. Theophus Lowry. Brief ad¬ dresses were made by Rev. S. G. Lowry and Rev. D. C. Lyon. For nine months after the church was organized it was supplied with preaching by different ministers. Among these were Rev. Charles Thayer, of Farmington; Rev. John L. Gage, of Kasson, and Rev. R. B. Abbott, who first preached on the 21st of March, 1869.

early in I860, and was completed in August of the same year. On the fifteenth of August the church was dedicated in the morn¬ ing, and the pastor was installed in the evening. The sermon was preached by Rev. W. S. Wilson, of Owatonna, the charge to the pastor was given by Rev. D. C. Lyon, and the charge to the people by Dr. Paxton. The Presbytery of Southern Minnesota was in session here on that date, and the services were con¬ ducted by Dr. Paxton. The successful completion of the struc¬ ture was largely due to the liberality and energy of Augustus Armstrong, who, though not a communicant, was a wise coun¬ sellor and possessed of those equalities necessary to the success of an enterprise of this character. He was no less interested in the material growth of the church than in its spiritual, and con¬ tinued one of the energetic workers for its advancement. Though in Albert Lea the names and characters of Dr. Paxton and Mr. Armstrong were best known, grateful remembrance of Mary Gelson, of New York city, should be recorded. This excellent lady was then a member of Dr. Paxton's church, and through him she became interested and sent money for the church building. She also assisted financially in the construction of the manse and again in the erection of the chapel; at another time she made a magnificent donation to the Sabbath school library.

At the dedication of the church on August 15, 1869. Rev. R. B. Abbott, who had been called here from St. Paul, was installed as pastor. Dr. Abbott came to this church in the full¬ ness of his manhood. He had received the degrees of A. B. and A. M. from the University of Indiana, and had served the churches of Brookville and Knightstown, Indiana, as pastor before coming to Minnesota. Prior to his coming here he had been principal of the St. Paul Female Seminary. In his position here as pastor of the church he never lost sight of educational matters and never missed an opportunity to exert a wholesome influence in this direction. In the first seven years of his pas¬ torate this church became the leading church of this Presbytery, and still maintains the place it then gained. A devout and spiritual atmosphere prevailed and many converts were added to the church. The whole number added during this pastorate of fourteen years was three hundred fifty. It does not often fall to the lot of a church to enjoy a pastorate so long, so peace¬ ful and so successful. Dr. Abbott resigned in 1884. in the four¬ teenth year of his pastorate, to organize Albert Lea College, of which he was the head manv years.

Dr. J. C. Irwin succeeded to the ministry here in 1884 and continued to June, 1890. He was succeeded by Dr. S. S. Cryor. during whose time the present building was projected and large additions were made to the membership. In 1897 Dr. J. L. Dan¬ ner was called and the church was completed under his pastorate. He remained till 1904, when Rev. H. M. Bruins succeeded him and remained till 1907, when the present pastor, Rev. J. B. Lyle, was called here. At present the church has approximately 300 members.

The first child to be baptized in the church was Helen Ruble, on August 22, 1869. She has done excellent work as army nurse in Cuba, Porto Rico and the Philippines. The first recorded mar¬ riage was that of Margaret Emerson and Thomas W. Wilson, on January 17, 1870.

The Ladies' Aid Society was organized in 1885. In 1876 the Home and Foreign Mission was organized. The first money sent to foreign missions was in 1876, when $10 was sent to China. Fanny Hazelton and Laura Batchelcler were the first contrib¬ utors. In 1885 the Home Missions and Foreign Missions took up individual existence and have since been separate societies. Several have gone from this church into the home and foreign missionary fields. Martha Bain went to her own people, the Indians. Ellen Rowley went also to her own people, the Mor¬ mons of Utah. Miss Stanley went to Pikeville, Kentucky. Juanita de la O. went to Mexico. Anna Hoge went to China. Rachael Irwin left in 1888 to teach in the Home Institute of Asheville, North Carolina, where she worked till 1890. She and her brother Morris then went to India. Ralston Irwin was the first missionary from this church, and it was here that he was ordained. He graduated from the McCormick Theological Sem¬ inary in 1887. During his vacation in 1885 he prepared his first sermons and preached them at LeRoy. He received his appoint¬ ment to Guatemala, Mexico, but was afterwards placed at Zacetecas. where he and his wife took up work in 1887. Because of the climate he was compelled to resign and take the church at El Paso, Texas. Later he suffered an attack of nervous pros¬ tration and died en route home. His life and work have been an inspiration to many who have since gone out for the same great work. From the foregoing accounts it will be apparent that the missionary societies and the missionary work in this church have not been in vain.

The Young Men's Bible and Social Club was organized De¬ cember 12, 1893, and for five years continued an active and enthu¬ siastic body, but at present there is no such organization in the church. The Sabbath school is in a thriving condition, witli three hundred members.

J. B. Lyle, D. D., is a native of of Pennsylvania, where he grew to manhood, attending the common schools and later the academy and the Washington and Jefferson College. He did his theological work at the Western Theological Seminary. In 1888 he was ordained and has since served many years in western Pennsylvania towns. In 1888 he married Elizabeth Marquis, who died in 1898. In 1901 he married Viola Merritt. In 1907, as has been stated, he took charge here and the continuance of his services in this community is eloquent approbation of his good work in keeping the church in an upward movement.

The First Methodist Episcopal Church of this city is one of the thriving churches of the Minnesota Conference, and was organized by Robert Forbes, D. D., who is now general secretary of the Home Mission and Church Extension Board. Before the organization of the church, occasional meetings were held at various places. The first sermon preached in Albert Lea by an ordained clergyman was by Rev. S. N. Phelps, a Methodist, in 1857. Isaac W. MeReynolds, who, though never ordained, was the local preacher, served the Christians here at an early date. Services were held at various places. In 1858 Thomas Kirkpatrick was presiding elder and organized classes at Bear Lake, Glenville : Rice Lake and other places, as well as here. It appears that it was through the enthusiasm of Isaac MeReynolds that the Methodist cause prospered in any degree in the early years, and even with his enthusiasm and leadership it succeeded only after overcoming great obstacles. He organized the Union Sunday school in 1858, and although a Methodist, he and Rev. S. G. Lowry, a Presbyterian, were the first who conducted serv¬ ices for the devout band of Christians who first organized a Congregational church, and later a Presbyterian church, result¬ ing in the present splendid body of that denomination in Albert Lea.

In 1878 Rev. Robert Fobes, who had prior to this time been connected with Hamlin University, came here and with well directed efforts secured the attendance of the residents, and it was during his pastorate here that the project of a permanent organization was considered. Later a church organization was perfected, with six members. The following were the original members: J. II. Parker and wife, Z. K. Mallerv and wife, Mrs. H. M. Green and Mrs. Mary B. Hyde.

In October, 1878, Rev. J. W. Klepper was assigned to this church by the conference, and he soon brought the matter of a church building to the consideration of the congregation. In the two years of Rev. Klepper *s pastorate the church was built and was dedicated in 1880. This building continued to be the place

The Ladies ' Aid Society has long been one of the strong organ¬ izations for the assistance in Methodist church work, and is at present in a prosperous condition, with Mrs. M. L. Robbins as president.

The Epworth League gives the young people the opportunity they desire for Christian work of a character to insure their con¬ tinued interest and present help to the regular church work. The Sunday school was organized before the regular church, and with some periods of interruption in the earlier years, the school has been of growing strength and success in the work of its field. The Women's Foreign Missionary Society has regular meetings and annually money is sent to such of the foreign fields as seem most in need of the help which it is possible for this society to extend. This society also makes it a part of its work to keep up the interest of the congregation in the foreign mis¬ sion work, and such opportunities as offer in the way of lectures by returned missionaries and others are made of service to the cause through the good offices of this group of workers. The home missions are receiving their full share of attention from the Queen Esther Circle. This society is composed largely of the young women of the church, who have interested themselves in this particular line of endeavor, and the work progresses along the same general lines as that of the foreign missionary society.

Rev. Irwin B. Wood, who is at present pastor here, is a native of Minneapolis, who has completed the high schools of that city and has a degree from Hamlin University, entirely through his own efforts. He entered the Northern Minnesota Conference in 1901. He came here in 1910, from Dover, Minnesota. He was married in 1906 to Frances Palmer.

Zion's German Methodist Episcopal Church had its beginning in 1869, when the local field was supplied by Rev. William Hilde¬ brand, and Dr. Kopp, district superintendent. The first board of trustees organized August 20, 1870, in schoolhouse 57, with the following members : George Drommerhausen, AY. Schneider, Nich¬ olas Ott, Claus Flindt and C. Drews. The Albert Lea church was the outcome of the Pickerel Lake German Methodist Episcopal church, which was built under the pastorate of the Rev. Aug. Biebighauser in the year 1873. At Pickerel Lake the church has an active congregation in good working order in all the different departments. It has a live Sunday school of from forty to fortyfive scholars, an Epworth League with a membership of twentyfive and a Woman's Foreign Missionary Society with twenty-three members. Zion's church was erected in 1886-87, at Albert Lea, un¬ der the pastorate of Rev. John Hauck. The membership of the church is eighty-seven. There are twenty-five pupils in the Sundav school and fourteen members in the Women's Foreign Missionary Society. The church also has a prosperous Epworth League. The present trustees are George Drommerhausen, Claus Flindt, Edward H. Eberhardt, Charles Lenz and Dr. J. P. von Berg. Following is a list of the clergymen who have served the two congregations: William Hildebrand, 1869-70; J. Hansen, 1870- 72; Aug. Biebighauser, 1872-74; A. H. Koerner, 1874-76; J. C. Jahn, 1876-79; C. Stellner, 1879-81; A. H. Koerner, 1881-83; Dan. Pfaff, 1883-85; John Hauck, 1885-89; Jacob Durbahn, 1889-94; Aug. Krienke, 1894-95 ; F. J. Preine, 1895-99 ; Fred Brinkman, 1889-1901; Hy. Clement, 1901-06; C. A. Borchard, 1906-10; Wil¬ liam E. Baumgarten, 1910 to the present time. Rev. Baumgarten is a devout and energetic man, greatly beloved by his congrega¬ tions.

Christ Church, Protestant Episcopal. The first Episcopal ser¬ vice held in Albert Lea was on January 28, 1861. and was con¬ ducted by Bishop Whipple, in the school house. A second meet¬ ing was held on the day following. No other services were at¬ tempted until 1868 when on April 28 services were conducted in the court house which at that time was a favorite meeting place for various purposes. In August of the same year Rev. S. AY. Gibson, of Austin, took charge here but did not conduct regular services. Rev. Gibson, Rev. Tanner, of Owatonna and Rev. S. S. Hurleson, of Blue Earth City, held occasional meetings for several years. In 1876 a mission organization was perfected and Rev. R. R. Goudv took charge of the mission work. The first confirmation was by Bishop AVhipple, April 17, 1877, in the Presbyterian church. November 17, 1878, a petition was sent to Bishop AYhipple asking his consent to organize a parish. On December 9, the same year, the organization was perfected with Dr. G. AY. Bareli as senior warden, A. E. Hazzard. junior warden, and AY. AY. AYilliams, R. AI. Palmer, Thomas H. Armstrong as vestrymen. The church was named the Church of the Good

Shepherd. In the latter part of 1879 Waseka and Albert Lea were united under charge of Rev. R. D. Erwin. In 1880 the Con¬ gregational church was bought and the first services were con¬ ducted in this building November 7, 1880. In 1881 Rev. AY. R. Powell took charge of Waseka and Albert Lea parishes, and remained till 1884 when he was succeeded by Rev. R. R. Goudv who was here three years. The first building having been lost through a mortgage, a new church was erected during Rev. Goudy's ministery, largely through the generosity of Henry D. Arey. This building was consecrated by Bishop Gilbert, March 3, 1887, and the name was changed to Christ Church. Rev. A. Baily Hill was rector from 1887 to 1890 and was succeeded by M. J. Bywater, who remained till 1893. From the latter date till June, 1896, students from Faribault supplied the pulpit. From 1896 to 1898 Rev. D. F. Thompson was rector and was succeeded by Rev. IT. D. Chambers, who was here until the time of his resignation in 1902. In 1900 the parish bought a dwelling house and placed it on the church grounds and fitted up as a rectory. During the period the church was improved and en¬ larged. After Rev. Chambers resigned, Rev. George H. Mueller, the present rector, was called here. During his ministry the parish has grown and prospered. It soon became, and has con¬ tinued, self supporting. Many beautiful and useful ornamental articles of church and altar furniture have been added, the rec¬ tory enlarged and the grounds improved. Since 1901 the mem¬ bership has more than doubled.

In 1878 the Ladies' Guild was organized and has continued one of the very helpful societies of the church. St. Hilda's Guild and a branch of the Woman's Auxiliary are also strong organi¬ zations.

The First Church of Christ, Scientist, is a branch of the Mother Church of Boston. The first meetings in this count}^ were held in 1894 and for the following three years they were held at irregular intervals. In the year 1897 an organization was perfected with Mrs. Helen R. Mitchell as first reader; Mrs. Ella Wilkinson, second reader; Mrs. Mary Rolfson, clerk, and Andrew Rolfson, Hans Peterson, Sarah Peck, Florence Cure and Ella Wilkinson, directors. After organizing meetings wrere, for a time, held in the Masonic hall, and were subsequently held in other convenient places. They are now held in the Syndicate block, where a reading room is kept open a large part of the day and evening hours. The reading room is a very important part of this church work, the intention being that knowledge of the church will insure members, and for this purpose a continu¬ ous campaign of education is carried on. A building fund has been started and it is hoped by the members that a few years more will find them appropriately housed. The membership is at present forty-four. The first reader now is Mrs. Mary Rolfson.

The First Baptist Church is affiliated with the Central Associ¬ ation and the Minnesota Baptist State Convention. The first regular preaching services were conducted by Rev. 1). H. Palmer in the school house, in 1859. Rev. Amory Gale, the first state missionary, also held services here and so much interest was manifested that it was decided to organize a church. A council for that purpose was appointed and convened on September 29. for the perfecting of an organization. Rev. Gilead Dodge was chosen moderator and Rev. D. H. Palmer, clerk. The church was duly organized and the following named persons admitted to membership : Eunice Jennings, Lydia C. Jennings. Charles Green. Sarah Green, Jeremiah Walker, Mrs. J. Walker, Margaret E. (Wedge) Morin, John Wood. Emeline A. Wood. Reuben C. Cady, Rodali Lowe, Alden G. Douglass and Winnie Pride, with II. D. Palmer as pastor. On the following day Mrs. Stage was baptized and admitted to full membership. Elder Cornelius Smith was the next pastor and took up the work in October, 1868. After Cornelius Smith left the church was for a time without a pastor, but was supplied by Elder Weeden. In 1874 the matter of a church building was agitated, the parsonage having been previ¬ ously built. Services at this time were held in the Masonic hall. The time was ripe for the church building and with unusually rapid work the building was planned, built and occupied, and on November 1, 1874. it was dedicated, this during the pastorate of Amory Weaver. The building was of attractive design and good workmanship. The debt on the structure at time of completion was considerable, but through t lie generosity of the members and their friends this debt was soon reduced. In the following twenty years of church growth tin* building became inadequate to the needs of the congregation, but not until 1904 was the proposition of a new building seriously considered. In 1905 the trustees were authorized to purchase the present church site on Clark street and the building committee was instructed to proceed with plans for the building on the newly purchased site. The present attractive structure was erected at a cost of $25,000 and was dedicated entirely free of debt in November. 1906. Since that time the church has been one of growing- and strengthening good in this community. As has been stated Rev. Amos Weaver was the first resident pastor in 1873. Since his pastorate the following pastors have been in charge: Norman Hoyt from 1875 to 1883, H. M. Jones from' 1883 to 1887, F. M. Archer from 1887 to 1889, Samuel Gorman from 1889 to 1891. From 1891 to 1895 the church was without a pastor, but in the latter year came R. C. Mosher, who was suc¬ ceeded by F. F. Dewett and in 1908 Rev. A. L. Kinter relieved him and remained till 1911. At the time of this writing the church is without a pastor. Rev. C. D. Belden has been a helpful factor in the church for many years. Several helpful societies, the membership of which is made up entirely of church members, have proved to be of great assistance in advancing the good work of the whole organization. Among the most helpful are the fol¬ lowing: The Ladies' Aid and Missionary Society, the Men's As¬ sociation, Baptist Young People's Union, the Light Bearers, and a Young Ladies' Missionary Society.

The Dano-Norwegian Baptist Church had services from - a very early time but was not organized nor did it have regular services until 1874. In the early part of that year steps were taken to perfect an organization. Having met the requirements, on all necessary preliminaries, eleven members formed the church. The necessity for a building soon presented itself and a building committee was appointed. On July 2, 1876, the church building was completed and was on that day dedicated by Rev. Ostergreen and Rev. Lunde. This original building was enlarged in 1888. The eleven original members were Mr. and Mrs. Carlson, Mr. and Mrs. S. C. Jason, Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Mattsen, Marie Mattsen, Soren P. Peterson, Nels Mattsen, Jens Lee, and Mrs. Lars Arnstrom. Rev. A. Carlsen was made pastor and also served some other churches in this vicinity, one at Clark's Grove and Alden. Mr. Carlsen was pastor five years. He worked faithfully and well and never received remuneration for his ser¬ vices as pastor. From 1879 to 1885 there was no regular pastor, but the following served at various times : C. Carlsen, Peter Daniels, E. Olsen, A. Brant. In January, 1885, Rev. R. Christopherson was called here as pastor and he remained till 1890. During this pastorate the church enjoyed a period of substantial growth. In January, 1891, Rev. N. S. Christiansen came here and was in charge of the church three years. He was succeeded by Rev. H. A. Rekenbach, who was here six years, during which time the membership was reduced from 165 to 150. There were, however, several reasons for this apparent falling off in the mem¬ bership. The reorganization of the First Baptist Church was the occasion for a number of members withdrawing to unite with them. In January, 1900, Rev. O. H. Skitheim continued the work so well begun by his predecessors, and remained in charge nearly six years. During his pastorate the membership was increased to 203 members. From July, 1905, to September, 1908, the church was served by Rev. N. FI. Byers. He was succeeded by Rev. August Broholm, who has since been in charge of the work here and is successfully advancing the work. Rev. Broholm is of the opinion that the three churches of this denomination at Clark's Grove, Alden and Albert Lea have a larger membership than any other county of this denomination in any state of the United States.

The Ladies' Aid Society was organized in 1883 and has since been one of the strong organizations of the church. The Sunday school was organized January 13, 1878, with C. Carlsen as super¬ intendent and P. H. Hansen as secretary. The school has con¬ tinued in good working condition and is a healthy financial asset of the church.

The Swedish Baptist Church was organized in 1883. In the late eighties a church Avas erected, which is still used. The rec¬ ords of this church have not been preserved. The present pastor. Rev. John Lundin, came here some three months ago, and his de¬ voted and energetic work has endeared him to the people with whom he labors. The Berglund family was an active factor in the organization of this church.

The Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church, of Albert Lea, is of the Iowa Synod. Its parent church in this county dates from 1861. The Albert Lea congregation was originally organized in 1868 under the guidance of Rev. E. Wulfsberg, who served this congregation and three others in this county. The work of the four churches proved too great for him and in 1874 Rev. 0. H. Smeby was called here to assist him. For two years Rev. Smeby continued as assistant and 1876, at the division of the parish, became pastor of the congregations at Albert Lea, Hay¬ ward and Oakland. The latter two have been cut off, and Rev. Smeby still continues as pastor of the Albert Lea church. The present building was erected in 1873, and with excellent judgment and wise foresight was planned and built larger than was at that time required. So well did those builders provide for the growth of the congregation that the original building with some alterations and enlargement has been adequate for the needs to the present time and will no doubt serve for some time to come, not only as a place for worship but one of which the city may well be proud. In 1879 the dedication took place and since that time has enjoyed a healthy growth and is now one of the great and powerful organizations for good in this county. There are at present 450 communicant members. Both the English and Norwegian languages are spoken. In 1893 a commodious and at- tractive parsonage was erected at 219 Fourth street and since its completion has been occupied by Rev. Smeby and family, he hav¬ ing been here for more than thirty-seven years. Among the very helpful societies of the church are the following: The Ladies 7 - Aid Society, Young People's Society and the Men's Society.

Among the early members of the church were : Carl Christopherson, Peder Sneve, Jacob Bergerson, John Erickson, Jens Garness, Frederick Frost, John Gullickson, Mathias Nelson, Even Nelson, Peter Nelson, Ole Ellingson, 0. P. Hanson, Jens Aasted, Ole S. Hove, Gullick Hauge, Daniel Peterson, Ingebrigt Hammer, Nels Dahl, Albert Mickelson, Charles Kittelson, Martin Olson, Ole E. Olson, Gilbert Guldbrandson, John A. Anderson, Lars Knudson, A. L. Aasgaard, B. H. Skaug, N. L. Nelson, Ole Tang, Hans Haukness, Ole N. Garness, H. A. Hanson, August Peterson, A. L. Tockle, Martin Hanson, P. Scotland, Ingebrigt Svendson, K. G. Lee, Ole Hammer, Michael Johnson, Vegger Guldbrandson and others.

The officers of the various institutions of the church are : Official board - Rev. 0. H. Smeby, pastor ; Solva Strom, organist ; Alfred Christopherson, treasurer ; S. S. Tviet, secretary ; P. A. Peterson, sexton. Trustees - Aleck Erickson, J. M. Nelson, 0. J. Dammen, Edward Ellingson. Lutheran Sunday school - C. T. Helgeson, superintendent. Ladies' Aid Society - Mrs. Oluf IJellie, president ; Mrs. Carl Hallum, vice president ; Mrs. Charles Lembke, treasurer. Officers of the Young People's Society - Thora Fossum, president ; Anette Overn, secretary ; Otto Fossum. treasurer. Men's Society - Ole K. Hellie, president; J. G. John¬ son vice president; Edward Fretheim, secretary; Aleck Erickson, treasurer.

Rev. 0. H Smeby is a native of Wisconsin, but his parents moved to Iowa soon after his birth and there he grew to manhood and attended the common schools. Later he attended the Luther college at Decorah, Iowa, and completed his theological studies in St. Louis. He was ordained in Chicago in 1874 and came di¬ rectly to this place, where he has continuously labored. In 1876 he married Marie Carlson and their lives have been consecrated to the upbuilding of their church and the extension of influence in all good works.

The Salem English Evangelical Lutheran Church, of Albert Lea. The Evangelical Lutherans, as a rule, have a tenacious love for their church because of its history, going back to 1517 when the match was struck which kindled the fire of all Protest¬ antism, and to 1530 when the great Confession of Augsburg was formally presented to the Emperor and the diet. The previous year the Evangelicals, called Lutherans out of scorn, presented a protest at Spire, against certain abuses in the church and were a course of spiritual teaching which has borne some wonderful fruit at home and abroad. For this reason and not out of bitter¬ ness or bigotry, Lutheran parents wish to have their children re¬ ceive all the advantages in spiritual tilings that they have re¬ ceived. When, therefore, those using a foreign tongue in their service, saw that their children needed the old faith in the Eng¬ lish language it became necessary to establish an English Lu¬ theran church, as the Norwegian, Danish and German churches, though having some English in their services, did not have enough to supply the demand. As a result many of the homes Avere being split up in their church life, some going to one, some to another house of worship, whilst the parents clung to their OAvn dear old faith. This led several of the leading citizens of Albert Lea to feel that a purely English church of the Lutheran faith Avas a necessity, and Julius E. Nelson opened correspondence with Field Missionary Frank E. Jensen, of the English Synod of the North¬ west, who Avas finally persuaded to meet those interested at the home of Judge A. U. Mayland, 425 East Third street, on Thurs¬ day, April 18, 1907 ; the following evening at the home of J. E. Nelson, 623 Fountain street, the constitution Avas adopted and on Wednesday, May 1, the first church council Avas elected at the home of Martin Wulff, 914 Oak street, at which time forty-five charter members signed the constitution, as folloAvs :

Hon. and Mrs. A. U. Mayland, Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Nelson, Hon. and Mrs. C. L. SAvensen, Mr. and Mrs. L. J. Okre, Len Ii. Okre, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Haugen, Clara B. Peterson, Mr. and Mrs. II. F. Wittmer, Mr. and Mrs. Lumen Land, Mr. and Mrs. John Monsen, Adelia Monsen, Mr. and Mrs. M. J. Wulff, Myrtle Wulff. Julia Solberg, Mrs. J. J. Sullivan, Mr. and Mrs. Simon dement, Cora M. Clement, Erwin P. Nelson, Russell Nelson, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Olson, Oscar Olson, Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Hoyne, Byron Iloyne, Mrs. Anna M. Grinager, Martin Solberg, Edith Subbv, Mr. and Mrs. N. C. Sorenson, Sheriff Oscar Subby, Mr. and Mrs. AValter Subby, and Mr. and Mrs. E. 0. Friske.

The first services Avere held on Sunday, May 5, 1907, in 'the Universalist church on West Clark street, opposite the park ; Avhicli Avas rented for $15 per month at Avhicli time the Sunday school Avas organized with thirty-two pupils and ten officers and teachers, Julius E. Nelson being the first superintendent. At this first service also the first church council Avas installed, consisting of L. J. Okre, who died by accident October 28, 1908; J. E. Nel¬ son; Judge Mayland; Mayor SAvensen; Henry Wittmer, avIio re- moved to Kiester, November, 1910; and Lumen Land, who re¬ signed June 16, 1908. Edward Olson, N. C. Sorenson and John Monsen were subsequently elected to fill the vacancies.

July 10, 1907, the articles of incorporation were finally filed- 'ind on the twenty-third of the same month a call extended to the Rev. John Keehley, of Minneapolis, to became the first regular pastor. The call was accepted and he entered upon his duties on the first of the following November.

On February 1, 1910, the church and lots were bought from the Universalists and on the fifteenth of that month Rev. Keehley presented his resignation as pastor to accept a call to be mission¬ ary in Milwaukee, Wis. This resignation was finally accepted to take effect June 26. On the eighteenth of July a call was ex¬ tended to the Rev. Alexander J. D. Haupt, D. D., of Pittsburgh, Pa., which was accepted, and he began his labors on Sunday. October 9, 1910. The congregation numbers among its members some of the most prominent and promising citizens. Its Sunday school has the full graded system of the Evangelical Lutheran church with Normal and Bible classes, while the pastor has his classes for the children in the Catechism and mid-week study in Bible doctrine, all of which are well attended.

The congregation is blessed with two very active societies, the Women's Home and Foreign Mission Society and the Young- People's Luther League. The officers of the former organization are : Mrs. C. L. Swenson, president ; Mrs. A. LT. Mayland, vice president ; Mrs. N. C. Sorenson, recording secretary ; Mrs. Lumen Land, treasurer; Mrs. L. J. Okre, treasurer of the sinking fund. This organization has accomplished great good for the church in its short history of four years. The Luther League is an or¬ ganization for the moral and social improvement of its members, with religious, topical meetings on Sunday evenings which are well attended and the papers and discussions of a high order. Otto Lichtenstein is president; Clara Peterson, vice president; Julia Solberg, secretary, and Leander H. Okre, treasurer. The League numbers twenty-five members.

In 1891 the several English Lutheran missions and congrega¬ tions in Minnesota. Wisconsin and North Dakota decided to form a synod for the better prosecution of the great work they felt called upon to do. This was effected in the fall of that year in Memorial English Lutheran church, of St. Paul, Minn., and a few years later this synod, under the name of the English Evangelical Lutheran Synod of the Northwest, united with the general body known as the General Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in North America. This general body does its work through the local synods aided by its general boards and publi¬ cation house. It extends from Boston to Portland and from the

Canadian possessions to the Mason and Dixon line and even beyond. It now numbers about one million baptized members under the care of 1,600 ministers. This general body was organ¬ ized at Fort Wayne, Ind., in 1867.

The Trinity Danish Evangelical Congregation of the United Danish Evangelical Lutheran church in America, was organized February 24, 1877, and the first meetings were held in the school house of district 54. The first preacher was Rev. Jens Danielsen and the first trustees were Hans Anderson, C. Anderson and Christ Jensen. The congregation prospered, and in 1879 erected a church on Winter street. The present edifice on West College street was dedicated in the spring of 1885. The Rev. R. J. Ostegaard was called in February, 1885, and served for one year. Rev. G. B. Christiansen served from May, 1886 to 1890, and was followed in October of the latter year by Rev. P. Nielsen. Rev. Nielson died in 1891 and his remains were laid to rest in the cemetery west of the city. Rev. L. Johnson came in April, 1892, and served until 1898, being followed by Rev. J. J. Kildsig from 1898 to 1901 and Rev. H. O. Frimodt from 1901 to 1904. Then came the present pastor, Rev. Olaf Rye Olsen, the efficient and devoted pastor, who is still serving. The officers of the various church organizations are as follows: Trustees - P. Clausen, N. C. Anderson, Hans A. Thorp, IT. J. Mortensen, H. P. Hansen and H. Martin Hansen. Deacons - P. Clausen, Chr. Bertlielsen, N. P. Larsen, L. P. H. Highby. Ladies' Society - President, Mrs. N. C. Andersen; cashier, Mrs. P. Clausen; secretary, Mrs. Janies Ander¬ sen. Young People's Society - President, Rev. O. Rye Olsen; cashier, Christ Hansen; secretary, Christ M. Jensen. Sunday School - President, L. P. H. Highby; vice president, P. Clausen; secretary, Jens P. Jensen. The parsonage is located in the lot west of the church, and was erected in 1887. Two years later it was enlarged. It is a two story building of good size and modern equipment.

Rev. Olaf Rye Olsen was born in Denmark, July 6, 1867, and came to the United States in 1897. He was called to the pas¬ torate of Trinity Church in March, 1904.

The German Lutheran Church is located at 503 South Wash¬ ington street, and was erected in 1899. The church has a small and devout congregation, but no resident pastor.

The Church of St. Theodore. (Roman Catholic). The devout Catholics in this vicinity received spiritual consolation in the early days through the visits of several pioneer priests, who held services, celebrated mass, baptized and confirmed children, and performed other priestly rites. In 1877 a suitable edifice was erected on the present site of the Newton house, southeast corner of Newton and Main streets. The church was dedicated December 9, 1877, by Archbishop Ireland, assisted by Rev. P. Riordan and Rev. Theo Venn. May 9, 1893, the present church,, on East Clark street, was dedicated. West of this church a four-room brick school house has been erected in 1911, which is used as a Parochial School, in charge of the devout Sisters. Among the early pastors of the church may be mentioned Rev. Theodore Venn and Rev. P. F. Dargnault. The Rev. James Fleming, for several years pastor in the eighties, is remembered by Catholics and Protestants alike, for his saintly character, his devout works, his polished manners, and the interest which he took in the development of Albert Lea. The present pastor, Rev. James E. Donavan, has been here for some years.

First Congregational Church. The early history of Congrega¬ tionalism in this city is identical with that of Presbyterianism. Some years after the Presbyterian Church was organized here, it was determined to make an effort to also establish a Congre¬ gational body. Accordingly, sometime in the seventies, Mrs. Ruben Williams took a leading part in raising funds among local people for the erection of the Congregational Church. Most of the money, however, came from outside of the city. A very attractive structure was completed. The first pastor was Rev. Drew, who, after considering the conditions here thoroughly, became a Presbyterian, going to a pulpit in Preston. Rev. James D. Todd was the next Congregational clergyman here, but he too resigned and went to the service of the Presbyterian ministry. The last pastor was the Rev. Chalmers. When he left, services were discontinued, and the church building is now owned by the Trinity Lutheran congregation.

The First Universalist Society of Albert Lea held religious services in the interest of this form of belief for some time at irregular intervals in the court house, but on May 14, 1870, pursuant to notice, a meeting was held for the purpose of organ¬ izing. William C. Pratt was chosen chairman and Alonzo Brown secretary. The committee on constitution, which had been pre¬ viously appointed, reported a constitution and articles of faith which were unanimously adopted. This document was com¬ prised of twenty-one articles. The following officers were elected : Moderator, C. R. Ransom; clerk, E. C. Stacy; treasurer, C. R. Ransom; trustees, E. C. Stacy, Alonzo Brown and M. M. Luce. March 4, 1872, a meeting was held to consider building a house of worship. At this meeting a committee consisting of E. C. Stacy, Charles Levens, Frederick Cochran, A. II. McMillan and J. M. Pratt was appointed to solicit funds for a building. Progress in this work was slow and it was not until more than four years had passed that the erection of a building was possi¬ ble. In the fall of .1876 the work was begun and early in 1877 "Our Fathers' Chapel" was completed and christened. On April 2'1. 1879. articles of incorporation were filed in the register of deeds' office. The first preaching was by Rev. AVoodbridge. who was succeeded by Frederick Cochran, A. Vedder and G. S. Gowdv. For want of interest and numbers for the work neeessarv to the success of the Universalists the work was some years ago abandoned, and since that time there has been no active organization of this society here.