Hall County, Nebraska - Chapter 18: The Churches of Hall County, 1920

Chapter 18: The Churches of Hall County

Hall County has been creditably endowed with religious institutions. Grand Island has been .represented by every prominent and widespread denomination. Throughout the other towns and the county in general sufficient churches have been organized and have flourished to enable the population of the county to carry on their religious worship with reasonable convenience.

It is felt that to treat each denomination by itself will insure fairer and more comprehensive treatment than to divide this important phase of human and spiritual work by geographical divisions.

The Catholic Church

The church history of Hall County practically begins with the establishment of public worship in 1861 by Catholics, near Wood River. Patrick Moore and his brother Richard, who located two miles west of the present city of Wood River, were the first Catholic settlers in the county. They came to Hall County from Iowa City in 1859. The first Catholic priest to visit the county was Father Fumian, a Frenchman, who came in the fall of 1861. He held his first mass here in a log house, the residence of Anthony Moore, about three miles west of the present Wood River. The regular station for the priest at that time was Columbus, Platte County, Nebraska.

Services were held about once in three months by priests located at that point until 1877. The priests to follow Father Furman, until 1877, were Fathers Smith, Kelly, Erlach, and Ryan.

Shortly after the Moores, the Windolph families, also Catholics, located in the Grand Island community, and these like the Catholics at Wood River were given an occasional opportunity to attend their religious duties by visiting priests from Omaha or Columbus.

But the Grand Island community grew faster, and the first organization efifected was that at Grand Island in 1864, with mass said by Father Ryan of Columbus once a month. In 1868 the members of this parish raised money to erect a building for their worship.

But before the dedication of this structure it was entirely demolished by a windstorm, and Jiot until 1877 was this congregation able to put up another church. In 1876 the congregation numbered thirty persons and

Father Ryan was still its pastor. On December 23, 1876, a meeting was held to consider the question of building a new Catholic church in Grand Island. Joseph Jeneman presided, with James Cleary, secretary, and P. Dunphy, treasurer. Those three parishoners with Messrs. Kraft, Windolph, McCarty and Doberstein, were appointed a building committe. The cornerstone of this building, a frame structure with a good brick foundation, on the site of the public library, was laid on May 7, 1877, and on July 7, of that year the building was completed and dedicated by Vicar-General R. Shaffel, representing the Bishop. F. S. O'Callaghan preached the sermon. The ceremonies were participated in by Revs. Wolf, Davos of Spalding, Daxacher of Omaha, Walsh of Lexington, Lynch of Wood River, Mueller of St. Libory, Stuer of Cognice, and Horek of Kearney.

Grand Island Parish

The first resident priest for the new St. Mary's parish was Father Erlach, who came in 1877. In 1879 a parochial residence was built. Rev. Richard Phelan, on July 4, 1880, took charge of St. Mary's Parish at Grand Island. He found at that time fifty-two families belonging to the congregation, while at St. Mary's near Wood River were seventytwo families. Father Phelan served until his death from a stroke of paralysis, on March 10, 1884. Father P. Lynch then took charge of the work here, which had been handled in the interim by Father Smith of O'Connor. Father Lynch remained with the Grand Island parish until October 6, 1886, when he was transfered to the Wood River congregation, which had until then been a mission attached to Grand Island.

It was then understood that the church was too small for the congregation and Rev. Father W. Wolf was sent by Bishop O'Connor with orders to make arrangements for building a new church.

this church, a brick building with a stone foundation and a basement, on August 15, 1888, and it was dedicated on July 7, 1889. For practically thirty years Father Wolf led this parish, and its history is wrapped up with his service, until in 1914 he retired from his active pastorate, and Father A. W. Heimes took charge of St. Mary's parish.

Father W. Wolf

The community was never more deeply touched than upon July 5, 1918, when Father Wolf passed away. The tribute to Father Wolf, with the record of his service to his people and this county, published in the Grand Island Independent, July 5, 1918, most appropriately touches upon his life and service:

"God's finger touched him and he slept" In few cases is the touching sentence more applicable than it was at an early hour this morning, when the Very Rev. Father W. Wolf passed away. There was called to his reward a beloved man who had given his life in the sersices of others. There was taken from his circle of friends and co-laborers one who had been particularly unselfish, kindly, and ministering in both a spiritual and material way throughout a life time. Many a one, even outside the circle of his own church, will experience keen regret when hearing of the passing away of this well known divine. Connected with St. Mary's Church of this city since October, 1886, over thirty years ago, his was a record of duty well and faithfully done. May he rest in peace.

Very Rev. W. Wolf was born in Westphalia, Germany, February 22, 1854. He received his education in the college of Paderborn, which institution he attended for nine years. In 1876 he emigrated to the United States and landed in New York on November 1 of that year. He at once entered St. Francis' Theological Seminary of Milwaukee, where he completed his full course of theological studies and was ordained on June 27. 1880, for the vicariate of Nebraska. He was appointed assistant to Father Smith of O'Connor, Greeley County, Nebraska, for a year ; and then spent five years as pastor of the Missions of Crete and Friend, now in the diocese of Lincoln. On October 9, 1886, he entered upon his duties as pastor of St. Mary's, Grand Island, where he discharged his ministerial labors since that time with distinguished ability. He was appointed dean of

When Father Wolf was appointed to St. Mary's parish he found there a small wooden church much too small for the congregation. He at once began arrangements to build a new church. Success crowned his efforts and on August 15, 1888, Right Rev. Bishop O'Connor laid the cornerstone of the present structure. On July 7, 1889, the completed new building was dedicated by Vicar General Shaffel, the Bishop's representative.

The present pastor of this church is Father A. W. Heimes, who came to Grand Island from the pastorate at St. Libory. The work of this parish has increased to such proportions that Father Heimes has been given an assistant a number of times. His firct assistant was Father Giblin.

Wood River Parish

property on which St. Mary's school now stands was purchased and the new school was opened to the pupils of the parish in September of that year. After having secured a beautiful church and a good parochial school, Father Wolf finally built the present parochial residence in 1907. Thus the people of St. Mary's parish have as fine a piece of church property as can be found in Nebraska, all due to the untiring zeal of Father Wolf.

Owing to failing health. Father Wolf resigned as pastor of St. Mary's church and became chaplain of St. Francis' hospital. He has rhade the hospital his home ever since, ceasing all active duties in June, 1917. However, he has been a welcome caller on the sick during this year, making his way about the hospital in his invalid chair.

Father Wolf's demise occurred at 1 :30 o'- clock this morning at the St. Francis hospital. The funeral will take place on Tueshouse of Anthony Moore have already been noted. The travelling missionaries, Fathers Smith, Furman, Kelley and Erlach, have been mentioned. The first Catholic church was built in 1868, of logs, near the present site of the Catholic cemetery. Father Ryan, followed by Father Phelan, and he in turn by Father Hayes, were pastors in charge. The old log church remained for many years in evidence in the farm yard of Squire Nelson. Father Smith conducted services in the old church some five or six months, until in June, 1885, Father P. Lynch, then of Grand Island, took charge of the church, and on November 10, 1886, established his residence in Wood River and for thirty-three years has continued his pastorate at Wood River. Immediately after his removal to Wood River to reside he commenced the erection and pushed to completion the present beautiful Catholic church of Wood River, which was dedicated as St. Mary's Catholic church by Bishop O'Connor in November, 1886. The church property consists of a block of land, and the entire tract has been set out to beautiful trees and shrubs. It is needless to say that Father Lynch takes great pride in the trees, set out and nurtured by his own hands and care. The church property, free from emcumberance, is valued at more than $10,000. The first trustees of St. Mary's church were Patrick Moore, Michael McNamara, John O'Connor, Patrick Neville and Patrick Brett.

Other Catholic Parishes

While it is located in Howard County, the parish at St. Libory has formed the place of worship and center of religious activities for a large portion of the Catholic population of northwestern Hall County.

Grand Island Diocese

In 1887 the name of Grand Island was selected to give to the most western deanery of the diocese comprising the counties of Hall, Buffalo, Lincoln, Keith, Cheyenne, Sherman, Howard, Valley, and Custer, and in 1897 St. Mary's church was with five other churches in the Omaha diocese raised by Bishop Scannell to the distinction of permanent pastorship.

On April 17, 1917, the see for Western Nebraska was changed from Kearney to Grand Island, but the actual transfer was made in July, 1917, when Bishop James A. Duffy came to Grand Island. Since his installation here he has carried on the management and direction of this important diocese from Grand Island.

With the headquarters of the diocese governing so much territory located here, Grand Island becomes an important center in Catholic affairs in Nebraska. When Father Wolf's funeral was held a great many priests from different parts of Nebraska came to

Grand Island to show their respect to their departed brother-worker. A roster of these visiting priests shows many names familiar as being leading priests of this diocese, and are given herewith :

Episcopal Church

The work of the Protestant Episcopal church in Hall County has been carried on for the last forty-eight years by the parish of St. Stephen's church.

R. C. Jordon was the senior warden; Geo. T. Jamieson was junior warden; C. W. Thomas, George E. Wilson and Frank Ligram, vestrymen. By July, 1876, the membership had -grown to sixty-five, from ten in 1871. In 1888 the project of erecting a new church was favorably considered. Work was entered upon and the building was completed in July, 1889. The material is red colored sandstone with gray Kansas stone in foundation. The rectorage is located north of the church, at Second and Cedar streets.

The rectors who suqeeded Father John Lyon were Rev. A. J. Graham, in charge as deacon, Rev. John Greenwood, Revs. Fulforth, Schwab, Henry, Wells, Warren, J. Nelson Jones, and Franklin Adams. A. G. Pinkham served from the summer of 1892 until the summer of 1897 ; Austin F. Morgan came in October, 1897, and remained until April, 1899. His successor was Rev. A. A. Gilman, from the summer of 1899 for a short time. Rev. Gilman has since served as president of Boone University, WuChang. China, and Rev. L. A. Arthur, present pastor, arrived about Easter, 1900. Rev. Arthur had served as rector of St. Joseph's parish in Detroit and had come to Nebraska to assist Bishop Graves and was sent to Grand Island.

The early history of St. Stephens, as well as some other early incidents in the history of the community, were] recounted in two interesting letters furnished to Rev. A. G. Pinkham, upon the occasion of [the silver anniversary of the parish, in September, 1896:

Complying with your request for some reminiscences of St. Stephens Episcopal Church, Grand Island, Nebraska. for the Silver anniversary to be celebrated Sunday, September 6th, 1896. The recollections that we have are during the last seventeen years and familiar to many of the present active members of the parish.

much pleased to find within its borders such a well organized parish with such able and efficient men at its head as R. C. Jordon, C. W. Thomas, T. J. Hurford and others. Rev. A. J. Graham was in charge as Deacon, he was a general favorite, a good organizer and much loved by the people. He took great pride in the appearance of the church yard and frequently painted and varnished the church seats to keep them bright and clean. He retained his place in the hearts of the people so that in 1892 when the church was consecrated he was the one chosen to preach the consecration sermon. Rev. Graham was succeeded by Rev. John Greenwood a model clergyman in every respect.

The suceeding rectors were Revs. Fulforth, Schwab, Henry, Wells, Warren, Jones and Adams. Each were men of ability and left an impress of their individuality upon the

Time had begun to show its effect upon the wooden structure so that the chilling blasts of winter found ready access through many cracks and crevices, and what was once the pride of a young parish on the western prairies was now becoming very uncomfortable to worship in.

It was then decided to either repair the old church building or build a new one. For many years the writer was honored by the position of vestryman and a part of the time as its secertary, so that his experience has been largely with its finances and during one of the most critical periods in the history of the parish.

When Rev. Jones was in charge as rector, one bright morning we found the church elevated on jack screws and soon moved to the side of the lot where the new rectory now stands. A new brick foundation was put under it and as usual the Ladies Guild paid the expense. The old church continued to be occupied until the new one was completed when it was torn down, the lumber sold to a resident and he transformed it into a dwelling in the south-eastern part of the city where it now stands. The first service in the new church building was held by Rt. Rev. Geo. Worthington.

When Rev. Franklin Adams took charge (the spring of 1890) there was an indebtedness on the parish of $9,378.86. That year we had to raise $2,139.65 to pay current expense and interest on borrowed money. Rev. Adams accomplished good work in spite of the adverse circumstances. The people all loved him and it was with regret that thev were compelled to accept his resignation Sept. 1891 on ac- count of his ill health. December 1st, 1891 found the parish in debt to the amount of $9,985.91. On account of a deficit in the payment of interest past due The Central Loan & Trust Co. of Des Moines, Iowa, commenced foreclosure proceedings. The members of the vestry at this critical time were : Richard J. Sharp, Senior Warden ; Henry S. Ferrar, Junior Warden ; Geo. H. Thummel, H. H. Glover, W.. B. Dingman, Wm. M. Geddes, H. C. Miller, John Allan and Henry D. Boyden.

The vestry were ably assisted by Rt. Rev. Anson R. Graves, Bishop of the Platte; C. W. Thomas of Detroit, Michigan; The Ladies Guild; St. Agnes Guild, and each individual member of the parish. A mighty effort was made and the entire debt was paid in full Tuesday evening May 24th, 1892. St. Stephens Episcopal Church was .consecrated by Rt. Rev. Anson R. Graves, our Bishop. It was a glorious day in the history of St. Stephens - one ever to be remembered. Four years ago Rev. A. G. Pinkham was called and took charge as rector. This last four years marks one of the most prosperous periods in the history of the church in all its departments.

The influence of the church has been extended and many new communicants received into the church confirmation. The vested choir of thirty-five voices has added greatly to the church services. In the way of church improvements, the basement has been finished, improvements made in the church, a new rectory built and the grounds beautified.

I am glad of the opportunity of complying with your request to furnish such items as I may remember them in regard to the early history of St. Stephens Church.

On the sixth day of July 1876 I arrived in Grand Island, accompanied by my wife and two daughters. The town at that date contained less than 400 people, and the few persons living here at the present day will well remember how Sunday was observed. The stores and business places were open and in full blast, and religious services were held irregularly in a small Roman Catholic Church situated on the south side of the street and on the block southeast of the present residence of Hon. Geo. H. Thummel. This church was destroyed the next day after I arrived by a wind storm, rather cyclonic in its appearance. The Baptists built a church in the Autumn of 1870. These were the only church buildings in the town at that time. There was a small log school house used occasionally by the Methodist people situated on the block south of Bartenbach's opera house. Tradition states that in this school house was held the only Episcopal church service ever held in town prior to our arrival and that the Reverend Samuel Goodale of Columbus held the service. The year was, I should think, 1869.

As we had been somewhat actively enin church work in our former home^ Sunday and the surroundings as we found them proved to be a somewhat lonesome day. After enduring it for four or five Sundays my wife could endure it no longer and determined to open a Sunday school in our house. During the week word was pissed around that the next Sunday a Sunday school would be opened in our house, and it resulted in bringing together about thirty children. This was the beginning of a Sunday school that continued without interruption to the present day.

During the winter and spring of 1871 the building of a church was decided upon, much encouragment having been given by the citizens to the enterprise in the way of liberal subscriptions. In organizing the church it was the intention to name it Calvary Church, but Bishop Clarkson of dearest memory, who was at the time Bishop of the Diocese made known the fact that a lady at Providence, Rhode Island, and a member of St. Stephen's parish of that place had placed in his hands $500 to be given to the building of a new church, but with the stipulation that the church must be called St. Stephen's after the church in Providence. The change was made and that is the way it came by its name of St. Stephen's church. Grand Island. The name of- the donor was Miss Shaw, and she died about twenty years ago.

Sunday morning, September 3, 1871, finally dawned and proved to be a bright and beautiful day for the opening of the new church. A new organ had been purchased at a cost of $700.00, the same one in use today, and a choir of singers of experience formed, which rendered the music of the church, Jackson's Te

In the evening the rite of confirmation was administered for the first time in Grand Island, the candidates being Claude W. Thomas, Carrie C. Jordon, now Mrs. Sears, and Frank Ingram.

The Sunday following the opening Bishop Morris from Oregon, who was on his way to the general convention, at the request of Bishop Clarkson spent the day with us, which were all the services held in the church until the coming of Rev John Lyon in December.

The church bell was donated by the All Saints Church of Portsmouth, Ohio, in 1873, that being the home of Mrs. Jordon. The trees around the church were first set out by Mr. Piatt, father of Judge Piatt, Hon O. A. Abbott and Alexander F. Jamieson. To the late Col. Eddy, of Omaha, who was at the time at the head of the town site department of the Union Pacific, are we indebted for the lots on which the church is located. Application was made to him for two lots for the purpose of building an Episcopal Church upon, and the request was cheerfully granted. The plans of the church were furnished by a Mr. Holmes, of Omaha, an Architect of ability, and without cost, as he and the writer had been active co-workers in St. Barnabas Church of Omaha.

For the first two years the music for church service was furnished largely by my own family, my daughter Maria, now Mrs. Shelton, being the first organist.

The first baptismal ceremony held in the parish was that of some children of Wm. Powell ; also the first celebration of the holy communion was held in Masonic hall at that time, situated on Front street, and before the church WsLS built.

The first marriage ceremony held in the church was that of the late Ernest Blunk and "wife, the latter I am informed is now a teacher in your public schools.

The first burial sen'ice performed in the church was over the body of a Presbyterian clergyman, whose name I have forgotten, but no doubt a reference to the files of the newspaper of that time will give you the name. He was sent to Grand Island bv the authorities of that church to establish a Mission, but was taken sick and died within two weeks after he arrived and was buried from our church as the Presbyterians had no congregation at that time.

person attended, and among the early supporters of the Church who were not communicants I recall Hon. O. A. Abbott, Hon. George H. Thummel, H. P. Makely, Jay E. White, and others.

The licensed Lay Readers were - - during the period in which I was an active worker in the parish : Robert C. Jordon, David T. Jameson and Thomas J. Hurford.

I wish to mention one name only, as deserving special praise - and if the person knew it I know he would forbid it - claiming that he was only doing his duty, that name is, Claude W. Thomas. All will bear witness to his noble and generous nature. There were times when the parish got into what business men call a tight place. On such occasions it was only necessary to call on Mr. Thomias and the aid was forth-coming. May God bless and prosper him is the earnest prayer of the writer, and I have no doubt is the prayer of all the parish.

I cannot close this letter without a word of praise for the good Sisters of the Guild. There has been from the beginning of the parish a band of noble women, willing workers, presistent in accomplishing what they undertook. To them in a large measure is due the success of St. Stephen's parish. May God bless every one of them who remain in the church militant. Theirs has been a work of unselfish devotion to duty for the good of others. May you have a happy celebration of the 25th Anniversary is the wish of

Methodist Churches First Church At Grand Island

Of the numerous churches in the county, established by the members of the Methodist Episcopal church, the oldest is the First church at Grand Island. The following very concise and comprehensive history of this church has been prepared by Ira T. Paine, Sr., who has resided in Grand Island since January, 1873 :

During the year 1866 Rev. Thomas B. Lemon acting as a missionary or frontier preacher travelled along the old government or emigrant road which ran from Omaha to Denver. It was about two miles south of Grand Island just along the north channel of the Platte River. It crossed Wood River about two miles south and one mile east of Alda. There lived Judge Beal and his family. Rev. Lemon held meetings at Judge Beal's and preached to the settlers and tourists that happened to be there and in the year 1866 organized the First Methodist church and called it the Wood River Methodist church. This was the first church organized in what is now Hall County, except a Catholic church at Wood River. In the fall of 1866 a railroad was built to Grand Island. Judge Beal moved to Grand Island in 1867, being county judge, and the church was reorganized here and called the Grand Island Methodist church. The two full lots, one on which the City Hall is located and the lot west of it were given to the church by the Union Pacific Railroad company. The City later bought the corner lot, 44 x 66 feet, and thereupon the City Hall has been built, the lot west being sold to pay debts of the church. The trustees were Wm. H. Piatt, Wm. Mitchell, Dr. J. Thorspecken, D. S. Wainwright, Jacob Rice, and A. L. Lathrop.

The first regular minister was Rev. Smith, appointed in 1868. He remained here two years, and was followed by Rev. David Marquette, in 1870, who remained two years. His wife taught in our public schools during their residence here. The fall conference of 1872 appointed Rev. J. S. Donaldson. He lived on a homestead twenty miles north of Grand Island, in Loup Valley. He came here about every other Sunday and held services, and was reappointed in 1872. During the summer of 1874 we built the first M. E. church that was built in Hall County, and I am very sure there was no Methodist church west of here until we reached the foot hills of the Rocky Mountains. This church was on the lot just north of our City Hall. It was dedicated in September, 1874, by Bishop Bowman and Rev. A. G. White of Omaha, district superintendent.

In the fall of 1874 Rev. Crowell was appointed to the charge. He lived in Kearney, came here every other Sunday- for about nine months and then went west, and Rev. Peter Harrison, father of our late townsman. Judge T. O. C. Harrison, and who was then living on a homestead northwest of Alda, teame in on horseback and preached to us every other Sunday for the balance of the year. At the fall conference of 1875 Rev. Hancock was appointed and remained two years. The conference of 1877 sent Rev. Burlison and his wife here from Toledo. Ohio, this being his first regular appointment. The reverend and his wife worked for the interest of our church for about eight months, when they joined the Presbyterian church. Rev. Harman, a local preacher who had lately come and was working as a harness maker for

Frank Barks, founder of Barks' Addition, and who later moved to Wood River and then to Shelton, filled the pulpit for the balance of the year and was regularly appointed at the conference of 1878 and served another year. The conference of 1879 appointed Rev. Geo. C. Senser, and he was reappointed in 1880 and 1881, serving here for three years. In 1882 Rev. Z. S. Rhone was appointed and stayed two years. In 1884 Rev. P. C. Johnson came from North Platte, and was here one year. In 1885 Rev. Wilson came for one year and was followed in 1886 by Rev. Crane, who was reappointed in 1887. In 1888 Rev. C. W. Savage was appointed and remained here one year. Rev. Savage's long service in a rather independent pastoral work in Omaha in recent years has made his name familiar throughout Nebraska, and particularly as "the marrying parson." In 1889 Rev. W. H. H. Pillsbury came here from Iowa and was reappointed in 1890 and again in 1891, serving here for three years. In 1892 Rev. N. A. Martin was appointed and served this church most faithfully for five years. In 1897 Rev. T. C. Webster came and stayed here two years. In 1899 Rev. Barton was appointed, and reappointed in 1900 and remained here about seven months of that year's work when he was changed with Rev. Carr of Vermont. Rev. W. W. Carr was reappointed in 1901, 1902, 1903, 1904, and during the summer of 1905 he exchanged with Rev. Gregory of Idaho. Rev. Gregory was appointed in 1906 and again in 1907, and during the summer of 1908 he exchanged with Rev. Varner, who remained about four months until conference, then he went to Colorado. The conference of 1908 appointed to this church Rev. S. D. Bartle, a very active worker in the church and in the community, who was reappointed in 1909, 1910 and 1911.

The 1912 conference appointed J. R. Gettys. who remained here one year. His successor, appointed by the 1913 conference, was E. N. Tompkins. Mr. Gettys has since been prominent in church work in University Place, Mr. Tompkins is serving the people of Trinity church in Lincoln ; the next minister sent by the conference in 1915, after Mr. Tompkins' two years of service, was R. H. Thompson, who remained two years. He is now at Geneva. Nebraska. E. E. Hosman was appointed in 1917, and a vear later went to Ord, and in 1918, Rev. V. R. Beebe came here from Tecumseh and in 1919 the present pastor J. H. Stett was appointed upon his return from overseas Y. M. C. A. sen'ice.

It has been my good pleasure to know all of these ministers. Though Revs. Smith and Marquette were here before I came to Grand Island, forty-six years ago, each of them was here at later times and assisted in church work.

Trinity Methodist Church Grand Island

A second Methodist church was organized in Grand Island in 1887. The church building erected at Sixth and Sycamore stands today as a substantial memorial of the earnestness of the original organizers of this second parish. The organization was formed on August 7, 1887, with 132 members and 19 probationers, and with Rev. H. L. Powers chosen as first pastor. C. H. Bailey was president of the Epworth League, Lenora Birney, secretary, J. W. B. Brown and A. A. Linn, committeemen and active workers in that society. Succeeding pastors of this church have been, Rev. H. L. Powers, Geo. H. Mac- Adam, Dr. J. W. Games, D. Sanderson, Alfred Hodgetts, Amos Allan Luce, T. J. Wright, Rev. Wilbur McKee, W. H. Wright, G. W. Abbott, John Grant Shick, and John Ray Martin.

Methodist Church, Wood River

The Methodist Episcopal church of Wood River was organized in January, 1872, with the following members : N. T. Brittin, R. Mitchell, B. Light, Isaac King and A. B. Ross, with their wives. Up to 1890 services were held in the school house, which partook largely of union services, all denominations attending and contributing to the support of the meetings. Among the first pastors were Revs. Fairchild, Marsh, Clarkson, Hancock, Burlenson and Summers. In May, 1880, during the pastorate of Rev. Summers, the present M. E. church was erected and the following trustees were elected : J. M. Harman, David Barrick, N. T. Brittin, James Ewing and James Jackson. These five gentlemen acted as the building committee that labored toward the erection of the new church building. The first Sunday school superintendent in the new church was J. M. Harman. The pastors following Rev. Summers in their order were Revs. Marsh, Dressier, Dudleigh, Davis, Worts, Leedam, Harper, Worts, LaVake, Donnelly, McReynolds, Campbell, W. R. Peters and R. H. Gammon. In 1900 the Board of Trustees were Truman Taylor, Chas. Trout, F. E. Slusser, Wm. Thorp and Geo. W. Miller. The Sunday school superintendent then was Truman Taylor and the Epworth League president, Miss Lillian Rounds. Following the three year pastorate of Rev. Gammon, came Revs. Dressier, Wingert, Paxton, Smith, V. C. Wright who served this church for four years, H. W. Wagner; the present pastor, since 1917, has been Rev. A. G. Forman. The present officers of the church are: Trustees, J. C. Burcherd, F. E. Michael, F. J. Riesland, Sylvester Strausbaugh; Sunday school superintendent, F. E. Michael ; stewards, A. Hampton, Mary Wyson (who is recording steward), Mrs. T. C. Taylor, Mary Simpson, Mrs. Anna Sprague, Sarah Burden, Ina Pierce and Etta Smith.

Alda Church Doniphan Methodist Church

The recent history of the Methodist church at Doniphan shows that Rev. Wm. Kilburn set sail from England the 19th of March, 1910. He was pastor of the Methodist Episcopal church at Doniphan in April, 1910, and was here until September, 1915. During this time the present new church was built, at a cost of $12,000. It was dedicated July 4, 1915, free of debt, by Rev. W. D. Parr of Kokomo, Indiana.

The trustees at that time and at the present are: W. E. Martin, president; Chas. J. Beers, secretary ; J. E. Hitt, Chas. T. Young, W. H. Marsh, Sr., W. H. Marsh, Jr., W. G. Smith, Chas. Kesel, W. D. Beers, Geo. E. Funk, treasurer.

Since 1915 Rev. Hagerman has served two years, Rev. J. H. Bounds one year, Rev. Frank T. Hoon at the present time is the pastor. The membership is 135, with a good Sunday school, Mrs. Emma Snearley superintendent.

Lutheran Churches

Grand Island has been the center of activity for various branches of the Lutheran donomination, and, therefore, has had several Lutheran churches established in its midst.

Evangelical Lutheran Trinity Congregation

By Rev. H. Wilkins, Pastor The history of the Evangelical Lutheran Trinity church, of Grand Island, Nebraska, dates back as far as the early 'seventies of the last century. A number of Lutheran families had settled in Hall, Howard and Merrick counties. They were first taken care of by itinerant missionaries of the Missouri synod. Services were held here and there in the homes of the people. In January, 1878, the Trinity congregation was organized, and in the same year a church was erected in Grand Island, then a mere village. The beginning of the congregation was very small. Its members were few and poor, and the obstacles to overcome were many and great. But the Word of God proved again that it is a power unto salvation. Under the faithful care of its pastors the small band gradually grew. One member after the other was added to it. In the year 1893 the old church was found to be unable to hold the large number of worshippers. The congregation resolved to erect a new and substantial building, the present church, standing at the corner of Vine and Second streets. In the fall of 1896 it was dedicated to the service of the Triune God. It has a seating capacity of about five hundred, contains a beautiful pipe organ, the first ever installed in the city of Grand Island, and three bells in its tower.

spiritual welfare of their children. They realized that a Sunday school, or in other words, that one hour a week of religious instruction, would not suffice. In order to give their children a thorough religious education they erected a parochial school, and were ever ready to bring great sacrifices to maintain it. The school became a strong factor in the development of the congregation.

In the course of years (until 1918) 1320 children received the Sacrament of Holy Baptism ; 433 were confirmed ; 224 couples were joined in holy wedlock, and 187 were laid to rest, to await the call of their Lord and Redeemer at the last great day of resurrection.

J. Schinkel is the last charter member with the congregation, the others have either moved away, or as we fervently hope and believe, have come to their reward as faithful servants of their Lord.

This church was flourishing some thirty years ago, and in 1890 its pastor was Rev. O. Radiniski but for the last decade its leader has been Rev. C. W. Boelter.

This church is located at Worms, in Merrick County, but has a large membership from eastern Hall County. It was organized in 1874. The Rev. Leuthaeuser was the first pastor of this congregation, and his successors have been, H. Jahn, F. Duever J. D. Shroeder, and Rev. W. Ludwig, the last pastor. In 1918 the congregation numbered souls, 450, communicants, 200, voting members, 61. A parochial school is maintained, with P. E. Frese as teacher. All instruction in all branches, except religion, are given in the language of our country. Since September,

Evangelical Lutheran Church

This church was completed and dedicated on March 14, 1886. The building committee of that church formed in August, 1886, comprised George H. Thummel, W. A. Heim- berger, C. E. Lykke, George Hunter, Benjamin O. Anderson and J. N. Lenker. The corner stone was placed October 3, 1885. This neat church home, at Second and Cedar streets, is still serving as the house of worship for this congregation.

Rev. A. B. Schrader served this congregation for several years. Pastors who succeeded him have been : Revs. D. Z. Foulk, L. J. Motschman, S. J. Learner, Wilton T. Hakse, and the present efficient pastor of this church, Rev. L. L. Lipe, who has been with this congregation for the past eleven or twelve years. During August, 1919, Rev Lipe tendered his resignation which the church board regretfully

Evangelical Lutheran

The German St. Paul's Lutheran congregation was started on August 5, 1883, under the leadership of Rev. H. Siekmann of Hastings, Nebraska, and with the assistance of Rev. J. N. Lenker, then pastor of the English Lutheran church. The seventeen charter members were: C. H. Duennermann, Carl Duennermann, Wm. Hoelling, Wm. Deppermann, Wm. Klapmeier, Frederick Buchholz, Carl Rosenkoetter, Gottlieb Duennermann, Heinrich Steinmeier, Frederick Cramer, Heinrich Ostermeier, Carl Schmale, Wm. Duennerman, Carl Knefelkamp, Wm. Floerke, Frederick Rahe, Frederick Busse. The first services were held in Hann's Park and in the court house, and after a short time the congregation bought the church ^home of the United Brethern people. The lot upon which this building stood was purchased later by the B. & M. Railroad, and the building removed to the corner of Seventh and Locust streets, where the congregation had acquired two lots.

In May, 1884, Rev. William Rosentengel was called to Grand Island as the first pastor of this church, from the Lutheran church of Nebraska City. He remained from July, 1884, until November, 1887. Rev. Rosentengel afterwards became president of the German Lutheran Wartburg Synod, with headquarters at Carthage, Illinois.

The next pastor was Rev. F. Gafert of Loup City, Nebraska, from March, 1898, until October, 1898. He organized two branch congregations, one near Phillips, Hamilton County, St. Paul's and one about nine miles northeast of. Grand Island in Merrick County, St. John's.

Though this congregation originally belonged to the English Nebraska Synod, since 1897 it has been under the German Nebraska Synod, another branch of the General Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran church.

When Rev. Gafert resigned in 1898 his place was taken in November, 1898, by Rev. H. Schumann of Ridgeley, Nebraska, who took charge and served until April, 1906.

He was succeeded by Rev. G. H. Michelmann in September, 1906, who has served his people for over twelve years in an efficient and faithful manner. Under his pastorate a Sunday School was organized that has now enrolled seventy-five members. The Young People's Society (Luther League) has thirtyfive members, the Ladies' Aid, thirty members.

The communicant membership of the church at the opening of the year 1919 stands 230. During the thirty-five years of existence 1,400 children were baptized and 446 young people renewed their vows by confirmation, 334 marriages were celebrated. There were 333 burials. The money given for benevolence amounts to $6,800. This sum does not include what the individuals have given for Red Cross work, etc., during the last four years.

The church councilmen for 1919 are G. H. jMichelmann, pastor, Albert Niemoth, Casper Hongsemeier. Wm. Loescher, secretary, Hy. Finke, R. Nuernbuger, treasurer.

The Frei Evangelical Lutheran Pilgrim Congregational church of Grand Island was organized October 14, 1906, with a membership of twenty-six. The first pastor was Rev. P. J. Theil, from Hastings, in 1907. Rev. C. W. Wuerschmidt accepted the call, served two weeks, became ill and died a few days after and was buried here. In August the same year Rev. Woth accepted the call and served the church until 1909. Rev. F. Cafert started to serve in November, 1909, and served until May 14, 1914, since which time the Rev. Braun has served the church.

was erected is 66 by 135 feet. The house of worship is 46 feet in length, 37 feet in width and 50 feet in height, will seat 250 persons, is built of wood.

At its organization the membership was twenty-six, now 114; average Sunday school attendance was 20, now 85 ; the young people's societies were 18, now 30, and the ladies aid were 10, now 35.

The present pastor is John Braun, the officers are John Pheif, Henry Dietrich. Henry Feierstein, Peter Bohl, Jacob Liebsack, John Kammerzell, David Kuehn, Henry Rupp.

Baptist Churches

The First Baptist church of Grand Island was organized in 1870 by Rev. J. N. \\'ebb, state missionary for Nebraska, under llu* American Baptist Home Missionary Society, with five members. The fold was increased to forty in 1876. The first pastor was Rev. J. J. J. Place. The church was reorganized by the second pastor, Rev. A. D. Trumbull, in 1875.

The congregation for many years used the church building (now on East Eighth street, and which is now used by the Seventh Day Adventists), but on October 12, 1888, the handsome and commodious structure at the northeast corner of Seventh and Sycamore was dedicated. This edifice was built in the form of a Greek cross, showing four gables, a tower of 103 feet in height and a minaret 71 feet. The main audience room, an amphitheatre 54x43 feet may be connected with the Sunday school rooms. The building is 54 X 72 feet and claims a seating capacity of 750. The building was erected during the pastorate of Rev. L. W. Terry and cost $12,- 000. To Dr. Jorden, of whose work more is said in this section, is due the credit of lifting a large portion of the indebtedness against the building during the pastorate of Rev. C. J. Pope. In 1907 an eight room parsonage was purchased at a cost of $3,000. This was done during the pastorate of Rev. O. B. Sarber, whose efficiency also secured the building of West End chapel. Rev. W.

I. Fowle was pastor from 1911 to 1915, doing excellent work. Rev. E. H. Jackson, the present pastor, came on January 1, 1916. Rev. E. F. Jorden served the church longer than any other minister, his term extending from 1892 to 1902. This was a time of solid growth and prosperity.

This church has been favored with pastors of high character and able preachers. Being located in the city which is the seat of the college of the denomination, this church holds a position among the Baptist churches of the state of special importance and responsibility.

Immanuei, Baptist

In 1888 a second Baptist congregation was formed in Grand Island, and the Immanuel Baptist church effected its organizations. During its brief history this church accomplished considerable good and had a live strong membership. It built a splendid structure on the south side, but after a few years struggle was forced to sell its fine church home to the Christian church, which absorbed part of the membership, and the Immanuel society was disbanded in 1895. During that time its work was carried on under the direction of Revs. J. H. Storms, F. E. Britten and J. D. Pullis.

Cairo First Presbyterian, Grand Island

In April, 1869, the Presbytery of the Missouri River, in session at Sioux City, Iowa, appointed one of its godly and self-sacrificing missionaries, Rev. Sheldon Jackson, as superintendent of missions for Western Iowa, Nebraska, Montana, Dakota, Wyoming and Utah. Soon thereafter J. N. Hutchinson, a licentiate of the church, began preaching in Grand Island once a month. On August 12, 1869, Dr. Jackson visited the young community and organized the First Presbyterian church of Grand Island, with five charter members. Robert Mitchell and Samuel Hindman were elected ruling elders. For several years the congregation worshiped in a school-house, its growth being slow. In February, 1875, Mr. Griffes gave a revival and added five members to the society, Robert Mitchell, R. G. Rice and S. D. Rannels were elected ruling elders. Rev. George Hutchinson came in August, 1875, and remained as stated supply pastor for nine months. In 1877 a new pastor came. Rev. J. H. Reynard, a brother of Mrs. J. H. Woolley. From then on the church became really aggressive. During the second year of Rev. Reynard's pastorate a building temporarily used for school purposes was purchased, and after being remodeled was formally dedicated.

In 1881 the manse was erected, and the same year became marked in the history of the church for the large number of accessions. Rev. Reynard is since deceased. His sister ?ilrs. J. H. Woolley, has been an active worker in the various channels of church work for many years.

Rev. George Williams became pastor in 1883. Rev. Samuel Wycoff serv^ed the church as stated supply during the year 1889 and until sometime in 1890.

The longest pastorate this church has enjoyed was that of Rev. Thomas C. Clark, who came to this congregation in June, 1890, and gave faithful service and inspirational leadership for sixteen years, until May 1. 1906. While he was pastor the present beautiful and modern church building was erected at West Second and Wheeler avenue. This church was dedicated in 1904. The succeeding pastors have been Rev. John G. Graham 1906, for about five years. Rev. A. F. Ernst, for about four years, Rev. Wm. I. Alexander, and the present pastor. Rev. A. A. Smith.

Presbyterian Church At Wood River

The First Presbyterian organization at \\'ood River was effected sometime about 1870. John and James White and a Mr. Warner were among the moving spirits. Revs. Robbing and Reynard expounded the gospel at that time. For several years meetings were held in the school house. After a time interest waned and the organization disbanded. It was not until 1882 that the Presbyterians effected permanent organization. Those taking an active part were John Bence, C. E. Towne, T. C. Taylor, B. L. Colwell and wife, James Allen and sister Jessie and W. A. Colwell. Rev. Fulsom was in charge at this time. In the spring of 1885 in the pastorate of J. G. Tate the new church was erected, and the following trustees elected: John Bence, Chas. Towne and T. C. Taylor. After Rev. Tate, the following pastors in their order filled the pulpit: Revs. Hullhurst, Wolf, Hatch, Shields, Dunlap, Belville, Brittin and J. C. Irwin. The board of trustees in 1900 were Chas. Towne, E. Kunz, Will Colwell, Geo. Sprague, N. T. Brittin, J. H. Diefenderfer, Mrs. E. A. Murphy, Mrs. S. A. Sherrerd and Mrs. O. W. Eaton. The church built a manse costing about $2,000. i\Ir. Irwin served this congregation for a long period, and following his pastorate were Revs. Lorimer, Clair, and C. E. Kirscher, the present pastor,

Congregational

It soon had a membership of sixty, under the leadership of Supt. B. F. Merrill. The First Congregational church was organized on the 16th day of June, 1887, with H. E. Clifford clerk and treasurer, B. F. Merrill and Frederick Randall deacons, Mrs. L. A. Harvey, B. F. Merrill and Frederick Randall trustees. Rev. D. W. Comstock was called on September 11, 1887. to be the first pastor of this young flock. Lots were purchased on the corner where the present church building stands, and the corner stone of the present building was laid October 18. In one hundred and thirty days after the work was begun the building was dedicated, on January 24, 1888.

Withstanding the usuaU experience of a church in a western town, and especially a town which is considerable of a railroad center, with the people coming and going constantly, it has steadily and ceaselessly carried

The present pastor of the church, Rev. Thomas Arthur Dungan, has been its leader since April 15, 1914, during which period the present house of worship was erected.

Congregational Church, Doniphan

The new church building of this congregation was dedicated in January, 1912, during the pastorate of Rev. Martin. The building committee who labored on this task were E. B. Treat, H. G. Ranz, Albert Cleal, and W. H. Gideon. A handsome, permanent structure of brick, with seating capacity for three or four hundred persons, with all modern conveniences resulted from their labor.

Grand Island and organized a class there, one at Alda, and one near Cairo. Among the early members at Grand, Island were Mr. Wesley, his wife and son, A. B. Vider and wife.

The organization was completed in 1876, and a house of worship dedicated that year, on July 2nd, by Bishop Glossbrenner and Rev. Joseph Wesley, its pastor. The society at Cairo erected their church house in 1886. The pastors who served the Grand Island society were Joseph Wesley, Rev. Trefren, W. S. Spooner, Joseph Wesley, Charles Ridd, J. J. Lohr, C. C. Kellogg, J. T. Squires, J. M. Witters, D. W. Smith, Rev. Jones, Rev. Dean, Jacob Bresmer.

Christian Church

A splendid congregation has carried on the services of this denomination since the formation of the First Christian church of Grand Island, in the middle 'nineties. In 1895 this congregation took over the splendid church edifice and part of the membership of the Immanuel Baptist church. Rev. Z. O. Doward served about 1900, for a number of years, and his successor was Rev. J. R. Mclntire, who stayed until about 1912. Rev. B. W. Salmon and W. T. Groom then served until the present pastor came to this church. Rev. M. L. Rose.

The reader will no doubt notice that considerably more space has been devoted to the history of certain churches than others in this county. In such instances some one in the past or during the present year, has taken the task of preparing these facts and preserving the records of the particular church in which that person has labored. Other churches are only given such a record as the compiler has been able to prepare from a current research. It will be necessary to confine still other churches, past or present, to a recitation of their existence in the community. But it may be stated in fairness to all, that an opportunity was given to someone connected with every church organization in the county, which could be located by the compiler, to furnish the same facts in relation to each church. A period of several months has been allowed, and in such instances as a response was not received, such facts as could be ascertained in the time remaining at hand have been set forth in this chapter.

Seventh Day Adventists

This denomination had a good working organization in 1893, with G. W. Broughton as leader. Elder F. M. Corbaly afterwards served this congregation. They have a church at 413 East Eighth, with services at occasional periods.

Theosophical Society

The Nirvana Branch of the Theosophical Society was a flourishing organization during the 'nineties. Charles Rief was the first president, with Nathan Piatt, as secretary. Later officers were Dr. M. J. Gahan president, Alfred Pigon, vice-president, Sam Conrad, secretary, Henry Schlotfeld, treasurer, Mrs. W. Haldeman, corresponding secretary.

Salvation Army

The work of this organization has been intermittently carried on in this community for many years. By the close of 1888 this organization had headquarters in the old Baptist building. Though no resident captain and his co-workers are stationed here, their familiar services are not strange to the people of this county, and never fail to meet a hearty response.

Christian Science

The work of this society has been carried on in Grand Island for almost thirty years. Geo. W. Bentley was an early leader and practitioner, at 403 East Fifth.

Mrs. A. Cosh served for a good many years as a reader. Headquarters were maintained for a long period at 113>^ South Pine, but the present place of worship of this congregation is in the 1000 block in West Third street.

Other churches, of which no detailed facts have been secured, but which should be mentioned and their work preser\'ed for the remembrance of future generations in Hall County, are: The North Sweden First Scandanavian Evangelical Lutheran church of Howard County, seven miles northwest of Grand Island, which has been the church home of some Hall County people ; the Salem German Lutheran church ; the Nazarene church, of which Rev. Beckman was the pastor for some years; Rev. Schumann's Lutheran church, north of Grand Island; and the Berwick church.

Alda has had three churches that have carried on the religious work of that community, the Methodist, United Brethern, and Friends. In Cairo, the Methodists, United Brethern, and Baptists have been the denomination to carry on the church work of the community. Wood River's churches have been treated at length already, and Doniphan's to some extent.