Springfield Township (part 22 of 69)

A. D. Hosterman, the present owner of the Poultry Success, and John N. Garver, have made a success of a number of publications, at different times.

Clubs And Societies

For some time leading men of Springfield had felt the need of some organization that could look after the welfare of the city, generally. This need was more keenly felt in the strenuous times that followed the business depression occurring in the latter part of the eighties.

The great East Street Shops had been standing idle for a number of years. The plant of the Armstrong Bros., boiler makers, was in like condition, so was the plant of the Springfield Manufacturing Company operated by E. "VV. Butt, in the southern part of town, and several others of a lesser character. The old Gray Malleable Works and the shops of the Champion Machine Co., now occupied by the Superior Drill Co. and the Foos Gas Engine Co. were likewise or nearly quite unoccupied.

To induce business firms to locate and start work in these vacant factories, and inaugurate enterprises of a kindred character for the welfare of the city generally, a large number of business men organized, in 18S9, the Board of Trade and installed as secretary the veteran newspaper man, Clifton M. Nichols. This organization continued in existence until 1904, when it was absorbed by the Commercial Club. This latter club was organized by a younger and perhaps more vigorous set of men, than those who composed the Board of Trade. Both the Commercial Club and the Board of Trade had for their object the advancement and fostering of

Springfield's material interests. This club was organized in November, ]897. For the remainder of the year 1897, Theodore Troupe, was president and D. T. West, secretary. In 1898 S. J. Wilkerson was president, D. T. West continuing as secretary. In 1S99 A. F. Sparks served as president, and J. F. Kitchen ?s secretary. In 1890 W. II. Schaus was president and J. H. Long secretary. In 1891 J. Frank McGrew was president. Long continuing as secretary. In 1902 E. B. Hopkins was president. Long still continuing as secretary. In 1903 R. B. House was president. Long still secretary. In ]904 Chas. S. Kay, who had previously served as president of the Board of Trade, was elected. Long continuing as secretary. In 1905 John L. Plummer was president, and George H. Knight, secretary. In 1906 N. H. Fairbanks, was president. Knight continuing as secretary. In 1907 W. H. Stackhouse was president, and Dr. W. A. Barber, secretai'y, and in 1908, John N. Garver was elected president and James G. Stewart, secretary.

It is the custom of this club to have an annual picnic some time in June or July and a banquet at the installation of officers, each year. The last banquet was held February 6, 1908, at the Lagonda Club House. The speakers were Mayor J. S. Eeyburn of Philadelphia, who is a native of Clark County, and Mr. Schermerhorn, manager of the Detroit Mr. Eeyburn in his address took exceptions to some of President Eoosevelt's actions in reference to corporations. He was replied to by Mr. Schermerhorn very vigorously, and although the audience was made up of manufacturers and persons who might pos- sibly be inclined to take exceptions to Roosevelt's policies, yet by a very large majority of the individuals composing it, expressed its sympathy with the speaker who was defending the President.

The club has been a potent factor in the welfare of the city of Springfield. Perhaps not accomplishing all that its founders or members might desire, yet it is the hope of all that it may live and "make Springfield flourish."

This club is a social organization and was incorporated in 1893 with an authorized capital stock of $25,000. Shortly after its organization it purchased the old Cavalier corner, on the northwest coi-ner of Spring and High Streets, and erected thereon the present well arranged and equipped club-house. Springfield is hardly large enough to support a social club of this character, without more or less difficulty. The members of the Board of Directors have on several occasions experienced some trouble in keeping the organization going. The building is an ornament and contains excellent facilities for banquets and assemblies. As a matter of course it is generally patronized only by the wealthier people. Recently in the banquet hall a number of banquets have been given for outside organizations.

E. 0. Bowman, and his brothers, J. E. and Border, Robert Foos and his brother William, Charles Bauer and his brothers. Pearly M. Cartmell, Percy Norton, W. A. Scott, and others, participated in its organization. The building was opened in October, ]S94. The present officers are E. 0. Bowman, president, Percy Norton, first vice-president, I. W. Wallace, second vice-president, F. M. Farmer, secretary, and W. S. Rabbitts, treasurer.

Somewhat akin to the Lagonda club in the purpose of its organization is the eouiitry club. This body was organized in 1906 with a capital stock of $15,000. It had its inception in the desire of some of our well-to-do city people to have a place in the country for pleasure and recreation in out-door sports. They purchased the old Ward farm, latterly owned by William S. Thompson, about half a mile above the city limits on the Urbana Pike. This farm is partly located in the valley and partly on the uplands. On the ridge going from the valley to these lands, a most excellent view is had of the Mad River Valley. On this ridge the club built its club-house and in the adjoining fields have golf grounds. The place is one of beauty and well adapted for the purposes to which it is applied. Mr. Robert H. Foos has been very active in the welfare of this club and it owes much of its present condition to his energetic effort. Robert H. Foos is president, Elmore Ross, treasurer, and Robert Rodgers, secretary.

That there may have been literary clubs formerly in the city of Springfield of which there is now no record is not improbable. As a matter of course, there are now and alwavs have been such clubs and societies connected with the educational institutions, but we refer to the clubs unconnected with institutions of that character. A general literary club was in existence during the seventies. This club was composed of both men and women. Just who belonged to it or who organized it is not known. It is presumed that the Kodgers, Warders, Brooks, Bishops, and others of literary taste were connected with it.

In 1891 the Men's Literary Club was organized by B. F. Prince, Judge J. K. Mower, Rev. Dr. FuUerton, Dr. John H. Rodgers, Judge F. M. Hagan, General Keifer, J. S. Crowell, Charles Kay and others. This club has continued very successfully to the present time, and comprises in its membership, men of the class of those mentioned, who assisted in its organization. Its membership is limited to thirty. It meets on alternative Monday evenings. Rev. Dr. R. H. Hume is president at this time.

This club was organized in 1896, W. W. Witmyer being chiefly instrumental in iHitting it on a solid foundation. Its membership is composed of a younger class of men, and is limited to thirty-five; and it holds its meetings on the second and fourth Friday evenings of each month, except during the summer months of June, July, and August. This club, like the Men's Literary Club, has a social feature connected with it in that it meets at the house of the meml)ers and such member is host of the club for the evening. Dr. "\Y. B. Patton is its president.

There are a number of other clubs in the city, notably those in the various churches. There is a very progressive club of that character connected with the First Congregational Church; the members of Christ Episcopal Church have also a men's club, and the Lutheran Churches of the city have such organizations known as Lutheran Leagues. These organizations connected with the churches are fully as much, if not more, of a social as of a literary character. Various other clubs are found in the city which possess some literary characteristics.

I find in Mrs. E. L. Buchwalter's address at the Spring-field Centennial that the first woman 's club here of which there is any record was the one known as the Worthington Scientific and Literary Circle. It was organized in 1878 by Mrs. Ruth A. 'Worthington, who was at that time principal of the Springfield Seminary. It had a limited membership of thirty. Afterwards there was organized the Traveller's Club, in 1888, by Mrs. J. AV. Murphy. This clul) at first had thirty members, this numl)er afterwards increasing to forty. After this came the Fortnightly Club, founded in 1891. This club during its existence was one of the best in the city. Afterwards came the Monday Afternoon Club, and following this, in" 1893, was the Tuesday Club. These four clubs in 1894 met and organized what is today known as the Woman's Club, and is today undoubtedly the leading club of that character in the citv.

There are also a number of other clubs among the literary women of Springfield existing at this time. The Woman's Club has a large and influential membership composed of active and associate members. It is instrumental in bringing distinguished lecturers to our city. At present it meets at the parish house of Christ Episcopal Church.

In the consideration of literary matters, we should make some brief reference to Springtield authors. We find, upon investigation of this matter, that it is extremely difficult to gather information. No doubt there have been others than those here mentioned whose names we have not been able to secure. Among the best known are :

William M. Rockel, "Questions Selected from Supreme Court Reports," "Ohio Mechanic's Lien Law," jointly with Judge Charles R. White, "Complete Guide for Township OtBcers," "Complete Ohio Probate Practice," "Ohio School Code," "Guide for Executors and Administrators."

Of authors who are not now but have been sometime residents of this county, might be mentioned Rev. Dr. E. A. Steiner, author of on the "Trail of the Immigrant." "Tolstoi the Man," etc.; Rev. C. H. Small "Cornerstones of Faith."

Dr. Isaac Funk, a native of this place, now of the well known publishing firm of Funk and Wagnalls, New York, is the editor of several volumes published under his supervision of which we would especially mention the Standard Dictionarj'.

Prof. Edgar F. Smith, some time professor of Wittenberg College, later of Jefferson University, Penn.sylvania, has several works on chemistry.

Perhaps no country in the world's history will have shown a period of such rapid growth as that of the United States in the last thirty years, and along with this general growth there has been a very great growth in the number and kind of secret and fraternal organizations. AVliether the rapid increase in wealth and the concentration of power into the hands of the comparatively few, have caused men to feel a weakness when standing alone, and thus look to association and organization to enhance their prospects in life, or whether these organizations result from other causes, might be questioned, but whatever the cause, the fact is that there has been an extraordinary growth in these secret and fratenial organizations. Even the power of the church, as shown in some denominations, has not been able to lessen this growth of fraternal organizations.

It is now generally the case, that while many protestant denominations do not encourage membership in these fraternal organizations, they do not oppose it, while the Catholic church, bitterly opposed to them, has societies of a very similar character, composed of and to some extent controlled by the church organization. Few if any persons now living, have a ]iersonal recollection of the exciting time that was created by the abduction of ^[organ in 182(3. This episode created a very strong anti-secret society feeling, that was more particularly pronounced, because of The accompanying circumstances, against the Masons. The feeling was so strong that it exercised a material influence upon the election of public officials. It so manifested itself in Clark County, that a Masonic lodge, which had been created here in 1829, disbanded and no other was formed for nearly twenty years thereafter. In New Carlisle the bitter feeling against Masons was such that the charter and some of the paraphernalia was taken out of the lodge-room by a member and buried, some portions of which were only returned a year or two ago. It will be impossible in a work of this character to describe in detail the organization and membership of the very great number of societies in Spring-field and Clark County. Suffice it to say, that they are found in the City of Spring-field and in every village within the county limits.

In a ]")re"sdous history of this county it is stated that the first Masonic Lodge opened in this vicinity, convened at the Court House on September 20, 1809, at which Samuel Simonton and Jona Baldwin were present. This was an Urbana lodge named Harmony Lodge No. 9. In the same year it was decided to divide this lodge, which at that time comprised members from Springfield, Dayton and Urbana; thereafter Urbana and Springfield were together, and in lS10-'ll-']2-'13 and '14 meetings were held alternately at Urbana and Springfield.

In 1814 the L^rbana people proposed to surrender "their charter and a new lodge, named Harmony No. 8, was chartered, to be held at LTrbana, and those at Springfield were to apply for a new charter, which they did in 1815. This lodge was called Morning Star No. 27. As stated before, this lodge was disbanded in 1829. Its first officers were S. M. Hinkle, M. ; Oliver Armstrong, S. W. ; C. Shipman, J. W. ; Ira Paige. Secretary.

In 1848 General Anthony, who was very prominent in Masonic circles, and others, made application for a new lodge; this was chartered in 1848 and was named Clark Lodge No. 110. Charles Anthony, M. ; J. M. Kills, S. W. ; A. M. Tavlor, J. W.

Springfield Chapter, R. A. M., was chartered in 1851. Springfield Council, R. S. M., No. 15, was organized in 1852; Palestine Commandery K. T. No. 33 was chartered in 1878.

New Carlisle and South Charleston both have Masonic lodges. That at South Charleston was chartered in 1850 and is called Fielding Lodge No. 192. That in New Carlisle was chartered in 1831 and is named New Carlisle Lodge No. 100, and now has the distinction of being the oldest Masonic Lodge in Clark County.

Until about the year 1883 Masonic bodies met in the old Odd Fellow's Building and from there they went into Johnson's Building, on West Main Street. Upon the completion of the Bushnell Building in 1893, they moved to their present commodious quarters. They have recently purchased a lot on the southeast corner of Columbia and Fountain Avenue, where in the future, it is expected, a building of their own willbe erected.

This branch of Masoury did not get much of a footing in Spring-field until at a comparatively recent date. Springfield Lodge No. 7 was organized in 1895; Frederick Lodge No. 40, in 1898; Solomon Chapter No. 92, in 1899. Eastern Star Springfield Chapter No. 4, in 1899.

An Odd Fellow lodge was organized in South Charleston in 1850 known as Clark Ijodge No. 166 and in New Carlisle in 1872 ; Caritas Lodge No. 515 was organized. As early as 1850 an Odd Fellows lodge was organized at Vienna Cross Roads.

In 1865 Davids Templar Masonic Lodge No. 15 was organized. In 1877 the lodge was reorganized and the name changed to Champion No. 15. Eureka Lodge was organized September 24, 1895 ; Wilson Commander}^ in 1871. Later Mt. Olive Chapter No. 4, Washington Temple, was organized.

This order is very strong and has been for many years in Springfield and its vicinity. The oldest lodge is Springfield Lodge No. 33. This was instituted in 1844, next came Ephraim Lodge No. 146, instituted in 1850. Then Goethe No. 384, instituted in 1867, then Lone Star Lodge No. 732 located at Lagonda was instituted in 1884. These constitute the subordinate lodges. Mad River Encampment was organized in 1846, Lagonda Encampment in 1895. Connected with this order is Canton Occidental No. 21, and Daughters of Eebekah, Ivor Lodge No. 415, Daughters of Eebekah. Sehi'ller Lodge No. 420, Daughters of Eebekah, Fidelia Lodge No. 12, instituted in 1869, and Daughters of Eebekah, Star of the East Lodge No. 331, organized in 1891. These orders have two

In April, 1872, Monerief Lodge No. 33, Knights of Pythias, was organized by a number of prominent persons in the city and it has the distinction of being the oldest of this great growing order in the City of Springfield. In 1886 Red Star No. 205 was organized with a very large charter list. In 1889 Lessing Lodge was instituted and in 1892 came Ingomar Lodge No. 610. The Uniform Rank of this order is organized as follows : In 1878 Springfield Company No. 6 was chartered; in 1884 Champion City being No. 44 was chartered; and in 1890 Lessing Company No. 105 came into existence. The Rathbone Sisters was chartered in 1897. The Knights of Pythias organization for a considerable length of time met in a hall on S. Fountain Avenue, the second door north of Main Street. The Red Star after its organization, for a time met in the Buckingham Building, and afterwards the various bodies met in the Dial Building, and thence moving over to their present commodious quarters in the Bushnell Building Annex, after its completion in 1903.

met in the same building Tvitli the subordinate lodge, Company No. 44 for a number of years having a hall leased on High Street opposite the Arcade and Company No. 6 the Old Funk Hall at the southwest corner of Main and Center.

These comprise the three oldest and most prominent of secret and fraternal organizations. The following list, however, includes many which in numbers and importance come near equalling any one of the three above mentioned, and practically all of that character now in the city.

Diamond Lodge No. 3(), of this organization, was instituted in 1887. Mystery Lodge No. 45 in 1898. Star Division Uniform Rank in 1888 ; Calanthe in 1898.

The following will give a list of the other societies of like character, with their respective meeting places at this time, and their date of institution where the same is kno'^vn:

Grand Army of the Republic - Mitchell Post No. 45. Instituted 1881. Meets at G. A. R. Hall. John Brown Post No. 633. Instituted 1887. Meets at No. 5 S. Fountain Avenue. Woman's Relief Corps No. 315. Instituted 1891, meets G. A. R. Hall.

Independent Order of Foresters - No. 1435. Instituted 1893. Meets at P. 0. S. of A. Hall. Companion Court No. 490. Meets at P. 0. S. of A. Hall.

Danghters of America - Home City Council No. 27. Instituted 1894. Meets at Zimmerman Block, 38 E. Main Street. Violet Council No. 29 - Instituted 1894. Meets Zimmerman Block, 38 E. Main Street.

Ladies of the Maccabees - Fernclifif Hive No. 170. Meets P. 0. S. of A. Hall. Lagonda Hive No. 345. Meets southeast corner Lagonda Avenue and Florence Street.

Ladies of the Golden Eagle - Fidelity Temple No. 12. Meets 211/0 N. Fountain Avenue. Honor Temple. Meets 21 1/2 N. Fountain. Valor Temple No. 25. Meets 38 lA S. Fountain Avenue.

Trades And Labor Organizations

During tlie proceedings of the Springfield Centennial Mr. Jeff Creager, who has been prominent in labor circles for many years, made an address in which he gave the following list of organizations as made up to that time :

Spring-field being largely a manufacturing city, labor organizations flourish. No general strike, however, has ever affected the city. During the time that Mr. William N. Whitely had control of the East Street Works a determined stand was taken on his part not to employ a member of any labor organization. Mr. Whitely 's subsequent failure in business had no connection with any strike. So, although at times there have been certain classes of workmen in various establishments who have temporarily ceased work, these difficulties have never at any time assumed a serious aspect. Indeed Springfield has generally been considered fortunate in this respect, and it has been one of the potent arguments in inducing new industries to locate in this town, that there has never been here any serious trouble between the employer and the employee.

Chapter Xviii

Early History - Location, Principal and Enrollment of the Various School Btdldings (1907) - Private Schools other than Wittenberg College - Parochial Schoolf^ - Wittenberg College.

The early educational affairs of Springfield have been well treated in a previous history of the county, and also in Prof. Weir's interesting paper read at the celebration of the Centennial of Springfield. To the latter source of information the author is indebted for the facts contained in the following article relating to the early history of our schools:

"In the year 1806, on the site occupied by the Lagonda National Bank and contiguous properties, in a building of logs, Nathaniel Pinkered opened the first school in Springfield and has the credit of giving as full a course of instruction as was usual in those times.

paper mill once operating near North Street, its course to Buck Creek followed the line of the present Center Street sewer. The portion of the town Ijdng to the west of this stream was called 'Old Virginia.' Close to the west bank of Mill Run, in a frame or log building about where Schaeflfer's feed and grain store now stands, was a school known as Smith's Academy. The date of the opening of this institution cannot now be fixed, but was probably about 1813. Samuel Smith, the proprietor of this somewhat famous and well patronized school, was assisted in the care of smaller pupils by his wife, in her home nearby. An Englishman by birth, he enjoyed the telling of marvelous tales at the expense of the rough soil and rigorous climate of New England, where he had lived before coming to Ohio. Smith's fondness for ardent spirits, which he was at no pains to repress, is responsible in part for the Munchausen character of these stories.

which his serious maimer of telling led his younger hearers to accept as veritable facts. After his career as teacher, and after changing his too bibulous habits, Samuel Smith became justice of the peace, and lived to a good old age, honored by all who knew him.

"The first building erected in the town exclusively for religious services was almost due south from Smith's school across Main Street and off Center Street, about west of the Zimmerman drinking fountain. This building of hewed logs, thirty feet long and twenty feet wide, was put up by a general subscription in 1811, and was used by ministers of all creeds in their casual visits. In 1818 the house was used as a school, but the names of the teachers who presided at the desk cannot be recalled.

"As closely as can now be reckoned, between the years 1824 and 1832, two schools independent of each other were conducted in a house still standing at the northeast corner of Fountain Avenue and North Street. The teachers were Reuben Miller, Esq., and James L. Torbert, Esq. Divided by a hallway, the west end was used by Mr. Miller, and in the east end Mr. Torbert kept his school. These were the pioneers in academy work, for both taught only pupils in the advanced grades.

"One of the drawing cards of Mr. Torbert 's school was the fact that he gave instruction in English Grammar. Judge Torbert 's dwelling was on Main Street, the site covered by Governor Bushnell's substantial business block, and here Mrs. Torbert kept school for little children, whose weariness in quest of knowledge was slept off on a settee in her back parlor, and whose hunger was appeased with ginger cookies from her pantry. Several persons are yet living who recall the facts thus recited, and who also remember the industrial branches, such as painting and embroidery, which were included in her system of training.

"One of Mrs. Torbert 's pupils, afterward enrolled in Judge Torbert 's school, recalls the sentence by which she was initiated into the mysteries of English Grammar, parsing and analysis: 'John's hand trembled.' This is an interesting fact, since the usual introduction to parsing is through an ancient case of assault and battery, wherein 'James struck John. ' But, after all, it may be a part of the same case, for, under the circumstances, what would be expected of Jolm but that his hand would tremble preliminary to giving a synthetic example of subject and object changing jDlaces in the sentence.

"These were the days of quill pens, with teacher as maker and mender. While making the rounds of his room for inspection or correction, he was wont to fix the damaged quills passed up to him. A good penknife, of proper edge and temper, was therefore an essential in the . equipment of the master, and his skill and speed in pen cutting counted for much in the sum of his qualifications. One teacher had an eccentric fashion of thrusting the quills into his hair, till in his measured beat he came again to the pupil's seat. Hence by the time his round was made, his locks more and more resembled the 'fretful porcupine.' Engraved copies for the penmanship exercise had not been invented, and so each teacher had to set the copy for his youthful scribes. This will explain, on the theory

"It will be understood that all the schools of that 'elder day' were known as 'pay schools'; the idea of instruction for all at public exjjense, though advocated, did not yet meet with popular favor. The demand for teachers was often in excess of the supply, and public-spirited men, at .times, were much at a loss how to keep the schools supplied with competent teachers.

"In order to provide proper training for her own children, Mrs. Ann Warder brought from Easten Pennsylvania into her own household a well-equipped instructor, and. inviting a few children from family friends, opened a school in her homestead, then on East High Street, opposite Christ Church, now owned and occupied by the Misses Burrows. In her later home, on East Main Street, at the intersection of the Big Four Railway tracks, Mrs. Warder conducted a school of more advanced grade, among whose teaching corps may be named Miss Armstrong and Mr. Lewis.

"No teacher of the early days in Springfield will be longer or more lovingly remembered than Miss Eunice Strong. Of sturdy New England stock, full of right convictions, broad in mind and large of heart, she impressed herself upon the religious, educational and social life of her day. When Main Street was called South Street, and before it was opened east of Spring, access to the ridge now called High Street was by a road winding up the slope to its summit. On this road and below the Warder homestead before referred to, in a frame structure. Miss Strong kept school for younger pupils.

Afterward, in association with Miss Parsons, on the site of the Charles Ludlow and Ross Mitchell residences, she had a school for older pupils. At a later period Miss Strong taught older students in a frame building on Fisher street, on the premises of the First Presbyterian Church. Many of the best years of her life were devoted to this good work, and no period of local educational history has the marks of one personality more deeply impressed upon it than the years Eunice Strong lived here. In response to questions relative to her work, nearly every one exclaimed: 'Why, yes! Of course I remember Miss Strong.'

"If fires kept burning on the altar of education in any one locality can sanctify, then the northeast corner of High Street and Fountain Avepue ought to be regarded as 'holy ground.' As early, probably, as 1836, a two-story frame stood here, and on the second floor Mr. Elliott and his sister kept school for youth of both sexes. In 1837 Miss Strong succeeded in the occupancy of this site with her young people. Following her. Misses Merrill and Tenney kept a school for girls and continued it till 1840, the year of the fire that destroyed much of the business proj)- erty of the town. In 1841 Rev. Mr. Presbury, rector of the Episcopal Church, brought to this classic corner his select school for girls, which he had previously conducted at his own home.

"In the course of time this frame gave ])lac.e to a plain brick building of three stories, known to the last generation as the 'Baltimore Grocery.' Reaching the third floor by a stairway from High Street, one found a large, well-lighted room and well adapted to the school uses oi' that time. When, after a few years' suspension of the Public High School, the course of study was again shaped to provide a line of advanced work, the pupils pursuing it were separated from the other grades, and, in 1867, as a High School, were installed over this 'Baltimore Grocery.' Air. Allen Armstrong and Miss Mary Harrison we^^e the teachers in charge of this school.

"A review of education in Springfield with Hannah Haas left out, would ignore a very long and useful career. Before she began her work in connection with Springfield Seminary, Miss Haas gathered a little school in a house standing on the southwest corner of Fountain Avenue and Columbia Street. At another time she had a school in the basement of the church then known as the Associate Reformed Presbyterian and later as the United Presbyterian. This house of worship, partly torn away to make room for Mr. James Carson's wholesale grocery, was recently wholly removed for the erection of Mr. E. S. Kelly's business block on Limestone Street. After occupying a room in 'Trapper's Corner' for a brief time, Miss Haas then used the basement of the Episcopal Church, which then stood at the southwest comer of High and Limestone Streets. At another period she taught in the house on the Presbyterian Church lot alluded to in connection with Miss Strong. Whether it grew out of the sympathy felt by the church for the school, or was a source of income to meet that vexatious question, 'current expenses,' so common in church finance, it will have been noted already in this narrative that the church edifice was the usual shelter of the school.

"The United Presbyterian Church was also used by Robert Black as a school of advanced grade; there are many of his students yet alive to attest to the excellence of his work in their behalf. In this same place was gathered the first public library, and here, too, a debating society held its meetings, which proved a valuable training for many who have since been much under public gaze. Robert Black remained long a citizen of this place and was recorder of the county for a term of years. Among others who used as a school room the Episcopal Church were Mrs. Lowndes, Miss Lavinia Baird, Laura and Virginia Miller, all of whom conducted schools for little children.

"Miss Carrie Baird has the unique distinction of having conducted in her own home a school for little ones who were unable to pay the fees usually asked; prompted to do this simply as a means of doing what good she could. Miss Lavinia Baird at a later date gave instruction in a room over the tea store now on Fountain Avenue. These labors were about ]858.

"Where Central Methodist Episcopal Church now is was the site of a school kept by Miss Catherine Haas, sister of Miss Hannah Haas before named in this narrative.

"A very interesting group of schools was located in the eastern portion of the town, then quite in the suburbs. Fifty years or more ago the tract east of Walnut Street and south of Main was farm, forest and orchard. Near the intersection of Walnut and High Streets was a frame structure in which an English gentleman (particular emphasis on gentleman) and his estimable wife kept school for all grades, including insti'uction in languages and higher branches. So long ago manual and industrial training were in vogue, for under Mrs. Miller's oversight sewing and embroidery were taught the girls ; and women are still living who remember the instruction - and speak of the skill attained by several of the pupils. Mr. Miller is remembered for the interest he took and inspired in his students in the study of astronomy. When Mr. Miller had removed to a new school near the corner of Main and Spring Streets, Miss Vicory succeeded him in the use of the building which was a part of her grandfather Merryfield Vicory 's farm. Here also Miss Peet had a school afterward. 'Kind and faithful' is the brief but expressive eulogy pronounced upon the memory of these teachers by one of the pupils.

"Across Mill Eun, on the site of the East Street shops, and reached from the Vicory farm by a foot log, lay the little school presided over by ]\Iiss Emma Way. This one seems to have been the most remote from the center of the town.

"Three places are identified as the scenes of the labors of Mr. Orin Stimson, a pioneer in educational matters in Spring-field : North Spring Street, a few rods north of Columbia Street, on the west side; South Limestone Street, near the former site of the Associate Reformed or United Presbyterian Church ; northeast corner of Columbia and Factory Streets. There are many who recall the days spent in Mr. Stimson 's school and attest his abilitv as a school man. He was one of

"The lot now occupied by the mansion of Mr. John Foos has many scholastic associations. Here in a large square frame house, Mrs. Anna Foos held a school during the summer terms of two years. Here also for one winter Mr. Cadwallader, and the next Mr. Buchanan served the rising yoimg idea. It is a matter of regret that the details of this service, both as to facts and dates, are so meagre.

"Sam Lawton, of Miss Stowe's 'Old Town Folks,' was wont to say that a pretty face on the singer's seat, in church, was a means of grace. Apropos of this, there is a record that in the forest still surrounding the E. W. Ross homestead on East High Street there nestled a little school presided over by a woman of accomplishments, to which were added unusual charms of personal beauty ; declared by one admirer to have been the most lieautiful woman of her time. Local history should not fail, then, to place on its roll the name of Miss Minerva Aldrich. ]^liss Aldrich was followed in the conduct of this school by Miss Gunning.

"The records of many schools are so scant that the narrative reads like a page from a city directory; yet in order to preserve local traditions and history, these teachers will be set down in this chronicle of one phase of our city's life.

"Miss Smith, later wife of Judge Rodgers and mother of Professor Henry G. Rodgers. taught on the site of the P.owman Building, opposite the Teegarden residence on AVest Main Street.

"In a stone house removed to erect the business house of Conrad Nagel, as longago as 1832-5, Mrs. Donohue had a school for little children. Here, too. Miss Finley and later Mrs. Anna Foos wrought on plastic natures. So few of the schoolrooms used in those 'elder days' still stand, that any, which survive the demands of business for room to expand, should be pointed out as interesting links between the past and present. The red brick cottage on West Columbia Street, under the shadow of St. John German Church, was one of those 'noisy mansions' where, with varying tides of fortune, master and youth struggled with the problems then confronting them. Rev. Mr. Pingree, Mr. William Wilson, and probably Miss Ebersole are some of those who taught school in this house.

"Close to the track of the Little Miami Railway, between Center and Factory Streets, stood the school of Miss Doolittle, which is remembered as one of the most popular and flourishing schools of that era of 'pay schools.'

"Few, even of the older citizens, remember personally Mr. Isaac Lancey, who enjoys the distinction of being the first custodian of the first public library. Mr. Lancey had a school on Fountain Avenue where Union Hall now stands, in a two-story frame house set back from the line of the street. The building on West Washington Street now used by the National Biscuit Company, and formerly the Universalist Church, was the schoolroom of Mr. James Wilson and also of Rev. Mr. Pingree, who was also a pastor of the church.

"It is interesting to note that in many of the schools last named the Bible was the chief reading book, and formal instruction in the catechisms of the churches was a part of the system.

"The educational advantages of Springfield ere long began to attract attention from beyond her bounds, and created a demand for boarding schools for both sexes. About 1844 such an enterprise for girls was started by Rev. Mr. Moore in a building known as the "Linn," where the Gotwald-Zimmerman edifice now stands. This school was maintained for some time, remembered by many for the public examinations and literary exercises, which were held in the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Moore afterward removed to Granville, Ohio, in charge of a college.

"Perhaps no name filled so large a place in public esteem as that of Rev. Chandler Robbins, who was identified in so many ways with the education of Spring-field's youth. He was first called to the principalship of the Spring-field High School, as the institution still standing on East High Street was then called, and served acceptably five years. After an absence of three years in the South, Mr. Robbins returned to Spring-field and in 1848 established Greenway Institute, a boarding school for boys. This school was first located on the Foos property, before mentioned, and is said to have taken its name from the beautiful gromids surrounding the school.

"In 1851 the building on East Main Street, now foi'ming a part of the City Ho.spital, was erected as the home of his school, to which boys were attracted from distant places. ^Ir. Robbins continued this institute till his death in 1871. In addition to his labors in his own school, this tireless man was successively rector of the Episcopal Church, a member of the Board of Education, superintendent of schools, examiner of teachers.

"On this roll of worthies must be inscribed the names of Miss Matilda Stout, who kept a school at the northeast corner of Factory and Main Streets ; Mr. McWilliams, William Reid and his sister, Jane Reid, Rev. William McGookin and Rev. John Rowe, all of whom spent many years of their lives in the cause of popular education."

Prior to 1850 it seems that the schools were conducted by teachers in their own buildings, the Council estimating and determining the amount to be paid for tuition, according to the number of pupils attending each school. In 1847 the Legislature passed a law applied particularly to the town of Akron and providing for a School Board. This law was afterwards extended so as to allow anj^ town of 200 inhabitants to organize under the act.

In 1850 Robert Black and John Ludlow were appointed managers of the public schools, and in March, 1851, the people voted to build two new schoolhouses. In February, 185.3, a recommendation was reported in Council to purchase two lots; one was the present site of the western school building and the other, which was formerly that of the eastern school building, was located on High Street, immediately northwest of the Big Four Railroad, north of the bridge.

F. W. Hurt was elected the first superintendent. John Fulton was principal of the western and Daniel Berger of the eastern school. The Board of Education was elected by wai'ds until the adoption of the new municipal code, when it was provided that there should be elected certain members at large, the others to be chosen by the various wards. The High School Building was erected in 1875 at a cost of $70,000. A few years ago an addition almost doubling its capacity was added to the west part. At this time there are a large number of excellent school buildings in various parts of the city.

In 1855 there were fourteen teachers, including the superintendent and principal; in 1860, eighteen; 1865, twentyfour; 1870, thirty-four; 1875, forty-two: 1880, sixty-two; 1907, superintendent, one; special teachers, three; elementary German teachers, five; principals, sixteen ; high school teachers, eighteen ; manual training teacher, one; elementary teachers, one hundred and twenty-six; total, one hundred and seventy.

In 1834, by an Act of the General Assembly of Ohio, the Spring-field High School, in the town of Spring-field, Clark County, Ohio, was incorporated. Quite an extended account of this institution is given in Beers' History, and many of the prominent men of the town were engaged in promoting this worthy enterprise. In the list are the names of Sampson Mason,

A site was selected for this school on East High Street, immediately east of the Methodist Church, and a building erected there, which is used at this time as a pri-- vate academy. The High School was organized in 1835, with Milo G. Williams as principal. He resigned his position in 1841 and was succeeded by Chandler Robbins. For some reason it was projDosed to transfer the school to the conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church and the proposition was made and accepted by that body iu 1841, and iu '42 an act was passed to incorporate the Ohio Conference High School in the town of Springfield. Chandler Robbins was succeeded as principal by Eev. Solomon Howard in 1S45. He resigned in '52 and was succeeded by Eev. John W. Weakly, and in 1860 Mr. Weakly was succeeded by E. G. Dial, Mr. Dial's successor being W. J. Ellsworth, who was followed by J. W. Herron. The latter resigned in 1869, when the building was leased to the Board .of Education of Springfield for five years, to be used for a public high school. Uijon the termination of this lease the school passed again under private control. Miss Anna B. Johnson now conducts a primary school in this historic building.

In 1840 Rev. Jonathan Edwards conducted a select school for ladies in the basement of the First Presbyterian Church, and in 1852 a charter was obtained. A large building was erected for the purpose of the Female Seminary on the spot where the Northern School Building now stands.

Mr. John A. Smith had charge of this school, which was conducted under the auspices of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Smith was succeeded by M. H. Christian in 1854, and he was succeeded in 1855 by Rev. Charles Sturdevant. By reason of a debt and financial embarrassments, Mr. Sturdevant assumed the liabilities and became the owner. In 1857 Rev. James L. Roberts bought a half interest, and in 1860 Rev. Henry R. Wilson bought jNIr. Sturdevant 's share. In 1865 Rev. J. S. Rogers became the sole owner

The Catholic Churches and some of the old Lutheran Churches of the city still conduct parochial schools. These schools at present are the following :

The following constitute the present members of the Board of Education and the officers of the same: W. A. Martin, president ; S. R. Hutehings, J. M. Derrickson, A. F. Linn, Paul C. Martin, H. L. Schaeffer, W. S. Meredith, Carey Boggess, superintendent of instructions; W. H. Thomas, Clerk; C. W. Arbogast, treasurer.

*Dr. Prince siadiiated from this institution in 1865 and comnipnopd his duties as an instructor in 1866, and has remained with the institution ever since, a period of forty-two years.

organization. The Evangelical Lutherans of Ohio and Indiana realizing that if they were to gain and maintain a liermanent footing in the West, as these states were designated in the early forties, decided to establish an educational institution which should be under their control.

As early as 1830 such an effort was made and a seminary for the special training of ministers was commenced. This was largely controlled by the German element of the church, and did not, as was thought of some, sufficiently take into account the interests of those who had from the German into the English The latter desired an institution which would not only give opportunity for a theological education, but a scientific one as well, and one where the laity might receive a training which would better qualify them for entrance into one of the professions or into business and the channels of trade. With this in view Wittenberg College was chartered March 11th, 1845. At this time there was no money in the hands of the Board of Directors, but their hopes and expectations were in the future. They believed that friends would rise up and take care of the new institution and push it forward to success.

The charter provided for both a theological and scientific education and that the usual collegiate degrees might be conferred when property to the amount of ten thousand dollars ($10,000) should be in possession of the Board of Directors.

as a missionary through the states of Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and Illinois, and from his observation became impressed with the importance of educating a ministry for the church to which he belonged, on the territory where their labors were so much needed on account of the rapidly growing population. He also had in mind the training of young men who would not enter the ministry, in subjects that 1)elonged to higher education and which would make them leaders in society, church and state.

It was through his advice that Wittenberg College was located at Springfield. Other places were considered by him, wliile casting about for a suitable location for the college, as Wooster, Canton and Xenia. In 1844 Dr. Keller opened a school at Wooster, but he felt that the permanent place for it should be further to the south and west. Spring-field was finally decided upon as the future home of the institution and the selection of the site was made in March, 1845. For the next six or seven months Dr. Keller occupied himself in awakening an interest among the Lutheran people in the states to be connected with the enterprise, and in securing the co-operation of the residents of Springfield and Clark County in the new institution. On November 3rd, 1845, the school was opened. Five students were present at the first hour and four more came in during the day. Others came later, and the aggregate number for the first year was about seventy. There was as yet no building erected by the college board. The classes were heard in the basement of what is now known as the

P^irst Lutheran Church, which was yet in an unfinished state. It contained several small rooms, which served as places in which to hear and instruct the various classes.

In the summer of 1846 the erection of the east wing of what is now the young men's dormitory was begun. Funds were low and the completion of the wing was greatly delayed. In the spring of 1847 Dr. Keller made himself personally responsible to the various contractors if they would proceed with the work. In this manner the building was completed and occupied by transferring the classes from the church. The main building with the west wing was still to be erected, to which work Dr. Keller gave much thought and energ}'. But he was not destined to see its consummation. In December, 1848, he was suddenly stricken with typhoid fever. His system, reduced by hard labor and anxiety concerning the many growing and pressing interests that confronted him, was unable to resist the encroachments of the disease and on December 29th he fell a victim to its ravages. His death was a great loss to the institution and was deeply mourned by his many friends in the city, who were numbered among all denominations and who ever held his memory in the profoimdest esteem and respect. His body was laid to rest nearby the institution to which he had given five years of earnest toil. After the opening of Ferncliff Cemetery his remains were removed to its beautiful and attractive grounds.

The Board of Directors now elected Rev. Samuel Sprecher to the place made vacant by the death of Dr. Keller. Rev. Sprecher was a wann friend of Dr. Keller and the person whom the latter would have chosen as his successor. The reputation of Rev. Sprecher as a scholar, theologian, philosopher and eloquent speaker was already well known.

In June, 1849, President Sprecher assumed the duties of the position to which he had been elected, performing them to the satisfaction of the Board of Directors, friends and students of the college. At his coming he found but one wing of the proposed building completed and the money for erecting the remaiaing parts mostly to be raised. It seemed almost an impossible task, but he gave himself heroically to it and by the close of the collegiate year, 1850-51, the heavy duty was accomplished.

In the year 1851 the first class was graduated from the college. It consisted of eight members. Four became ministers, two lawyers, one a physician and one entered upon a business career. One still (1908), Rev. William H. Wynn, D. D., Taeoma, Wash., survives to remember the day of his graduation.

Among the hard problems which the institution had to meet, that of finance was the most strenuous. It did not begin full-handed, as many institutions of a later date, but had to struggle in its efforts to do the best possible work with slender means. That it turned out so many persons in its early history who became eminent in the various professions which they entered, is a proof that much can be accomplished in awakening ambition for scholarship and inciting of lofty aims without a lavish expenditure of money. At the various meetings of the College Board in those early days the subject of finance was a common theme, and plans looking to the betterment were from time to time inaugurated.

In accordance with the practice of other educational institutions of the day, scholarships were sold at a very low figure, with the hope that a large number would be taken, and from this source an endowment of considerable dimensions would accrue to the college; but the results, as elsewhere, were far from satisfactory. At various periods during the presidency of Dr. Sprecher, he took the field to secure funds for the college and was able to add materially to the endowment of the institution. The war of 1861-5 affected greatly the attendance of students and thereby its resources. Many of the students enlisted, some for three months, some for three years and some for the war. The number who went was so large as to call from the government special commendation.

During Dr. Sprecher 's administration of twenty-five years a high grade of scholarship was secured and maintained by the young men who passed through the courses of study then offered by the college. The president himself was the embodiment of high thinking and by it he inspired many young men who came under his influence with an ambition for learning and scholarship.

In 1874 Dr. Sprecher resigned the presidency and was succeeded by Rev. John B. Helwig, D. D., who for eight years presided over the affairs of the institution. He was earnest in his endeavor to build up its interest. During his administration young women were admitted and the work of co-education at Wittenberg began. A more extended and flexible curriculum of studies was adopted. The financial condition was somewhat improved. Plans for the erection of a new building, so greatly needed, were discussed and subscriptions for that purpose taken. The college had now outgrown its contracted quarters and the pressure was at hand for enlargement. But the duties of administration and the labor connected with the effort to secure better facilities for carrying forward the work of the institution began to weigh heavily on the mind and body of Dr. Helwig, and feeling the strain too great, he resigned in the spring of 1882.

The Board of Directors now elected to fill the vacancy Rev. Samuel A. Ort, D. D., who for two years past had filled a chair in the school of theology. He at once assumed the duties of the position and gave his first attention to the securing of funds for the proposed new building.

buildiug now named Recitation Hall was not ready for occupancy until September, 1886. Its completion meant much for the professors and students. Better class rooms with various added facilities were provided, which were a great help in carrying on the work of the institution. The citizens of Springfield and Clark County generously contributed the greater part of the funds for the building.

In the meantime the field of instruction had been much broadened. In the sciences the opportunity for more extended and practical work was greatly increased and the new methods for their study fully inaugurated. The student was encouraged to become an investigator in the scientific field and find out for himself the secrets of nature. Also English and German, as well as the ancient classics, history and political science, philosophy and mathematics, all took an advanced step in the scope of their study and as far as possible in the methods of instruction. All these improvements, together with the new spirit which necessarily followed on account of them, made the institution vastly different from what it had been a quarter of a century earlier.

who desired to send their daughters to AVittenberg. In consequence of this growing need, the Board of Directors at its meeting in June, 1887, decided to erect a suitable building as a home for young ladies. The work was commenced and a neat and comfortable hall was finished in the spring of 1888. It was not, however, put into use until the following September. Though not large, it has answered its purpose well, and Ferncliff Hall has become one of the features of college life. Plans are in hand for its enlargement as soon as there is a demand for it on account of increasing numbers of young women from abroad. No building for the special use of the Theological School had been erected before 1890. In the fall of 1889 the cornerstone of such building was laid and the whole structure completed and dedicated in November, 1890. It supplied a great need and opened a way for securing many advantages to the young men preparing for the ministry. The teaching force had already been enlarged and a course of instruction prepared to meet the demands necessary for the times.

After the admission of young women as students in 1874, their numbers gradually increased from year to year. Those who applied from abroad began to be considerable in numbers, and places had to be found for them in homes within a reasonable distance from the college. This brought continual annoyance to the president and his associates; neither was this condition always satisfactory to parents

The building is known as Hamma Divinity Hall, in honor of the chief donor to the expense of construction. Rev. M. W. Hamma, D. D. This building was burned December, 1900, and rebuilt the following year. Since that time the corps of instructors of the Seminary has been further increased, new courses added and various facilities provided. For the better equipment of the Seminary the legacy of the la-te Rev. Charles Stroud and the gift of Dr. Hamma will furnish ample means

A place for housing and caring for the growing library of the college became more and more a necessity from year to year. Realizing the needs of the institution for a library building, Hon. John L. Zimmerman, an alumnus of the college, proposed to erect such a structure as a memorial to his brother. Rev. Joseph Clark Zimmerman, deceased. The offer was gladly accepted. The Zimmerman library was begun in 1891 and dedicated in 1892. The building is now crowded with books, pamphlets and magazines. Its enlargement is fast becoming a necessity. The gathering of books must go on and no doubt there will soon be provided means for the extension of the building and its further equipment.

Substantial additions were made to the endowment fund during the presidency of Dr. Ort. The number of students was greatly increased. Plans for enlargement were inaugurated, many of which were of much ser\'ice to the college. After eighteen years of earnest and effective labor in building up the institution in equipments, in buildings, in finances, and by the extension and addition to the various departments of instruction, Dr. Ort offered his resignation as president of the institution, retaining, however, his chair in theology in the seminary and professor of philosophy in the college.

suddenly stricken down with a fatal disease. With the coming of Dr. Ruthrauff' the policy of directors with regard to the duties of the president was changed. Hitherto the presidents were expected to do their full share of teaching, look after the conduct and discipline of the students, represent the college wherever and whenever necessary, and seftire needed fimds and advance the financial condition of the college. Its growing interests made this a great and impossible burden. Dr. Ruthrauff was relieved of all teaching. He began with commendable zeal to advance the financial interests of the institution, but his labors were destined to be of short duration. With a suddenness that falls to few the death summons came and again the presidency of the college became vacant.

For one year after the death of Dr. Ruthrauff, Dr. Ort had temijorary oversight of the affairs of the college. In the spring of 1903 Rev. Charles G. Heckert, D. D., who held the chair of English and logic, was elected to the vacant place. He accepted the position with the condition that his duties should begin on the following commencement day, a wish that was granted by the Board of Directors. Having been an instructor and professor in the institution for fourteen years. Dr. Heckert was well acquainted with its affairs and could enter upon his duties without a period of tutelage to learn the methods of administration and the needs of the various departments. Under his efforts and advice the institution has broadened its courses, enlarged its faculty

Through his earnest efforts the latest addition to the facilities of the college, Carnegie Science Hall, has been secured. The building has been erected and equipped. It has been fitted up in the most approved method for scientific work. It equipments are of the modern type and together with all its appointments it adds much to the facilities for teaching the sciences. The building proper stands as a monument to the generosity of the donor, Mr. Carnegie; the equipment expresses the interest of alumni and friends of the college in the progress of the institution.

There have gone out from the Seminary since its first class in 1846 more than three hundred and sixty ministers. They are scattered over four continents, endeavoring to bear the light of gospel truth everywhere for the betterment of the world.

The college proper has had an equally useful and prosperous career. With its first class in 1851 to and including the class of 1907, it has sent forth more than eight hundred and sixty graduates. They have been useful and successful in many fields, some as judicial officers in the courts of state and nation, some as legislators and statesmen in national and state legislatures, some as manufacturers and business men, some as lawyers, some as teachers in state schools and colleges, and some as ministers and manv others in various pursuits and vocations, bearing honor to themselves and credit to the college that gave them their degree. Nor must there be forgotten the many who have spent one or more years at Wittenberg, but for various reasons, cut short their course and entered at once upon the struggle of life in the ranks of their fellows; to these also the college has meant something. It gave them a broader outlook and a better preparation for the duties and positions that fell to their lot. To all the college has been a benefactor and a source of help.

With the advent of young women in the college it became necessary to inaugurate music and art departments. The demand for music, especially, from the first was quite pronounced. This wish was met by securing such instructors as would be a help to the students and a credit to the institution. The department has been quite well patronized and the work of instruction satisfactory to the pupils.

In art also much has been done. The various instructors who have had charge of the classes have been able to secure creditable work, and thus advance the interests of the department.

There has been from the first an academy connected with the institution. There are many who prefer to take their training for entrance to the college classes in a school specially designed for that purpose. Hence such a school has been an adjunct at Wittenberg. It is well manned with experienced and capable instructors, and commends itself for the good work done. Its rounds of studie.-; which are de- Jiianded for college entrance cover a year or moi-e of college work as the latter was outlined twenty-five or thirty years ago.

There are three literary societies connected with the institution, the Excelsior, the Philosophian and the Euterpeau. These societies meet weekly and exercise themselves iu declamations, orations, and debates. The first two were organized at the very beginning of the institution, and for, many years were a leading factor in the institution. Since the introduction of elective courses and the opportunity for a larger number of recitation hours, not so large a number of the students give attention to literary exercises conducted by the societies. Still much good work is done in them and they continue to be a very useful factor in the college.

A number of the professors in Wittenberg College have taken, in addition to their collegiate course, post-graduate courses in various universities; others have and are now taking summer courses in such institutions. By it they are wellequipped for their work. It insures to the student an advantage in being taught by men who know the subjects which they are appointed to teach, and which can by their superior training give inspiration to those who are in their care. The traditions of Wittenberg, coming down from the first decade and a half, are to the effect that the instructors of those early days created the spirit of self-reliance, independent thinking, and thorough investigation in the minds of their students. No better equipment for life's battles could be provided by any institution. That spirit still prevails; Wittenberg is true to her traditions.

Under the wise gaiidance of its energetic president. Dr. Charles G. Heckert, aided by an earnest and zealous faculty, with the prospect of many friends rising up to help it financially, as well as with their moral support, and with a loyal alumni, Wittenberg College has before it a bright future, and a promise for usefulness to the church with which it is connected, to the citizens of Springfield and Clark County, in whose midst it is located, to its patrons from whatever state they may come, and to all who may fall within the circle of its influence. It seeks to be a benefaction to all, whether rich or poor, and stands ready to do its part for the increase of knowledge among men and for the betterment of mankind.

the City of Springfield. ' ' While no doubt much credit is due to the said authors, it would be unfair not to give to the Doctor himself a very large share for his work in gathering and putting into readable shape so much interesting historical matter concerning the churches of Springfield. With the omission of some formal parts and the insertion of some additional data, his account is as follows :

From the time that James Demint, with his family, came from Kentucky, in 1799, and commenced dwelling in his double log cabin, situated on the north side of Lagonda or Buck Creek, upon the site now occupied by our Northern School House, there were no white dwellers here, until the year 1801, when Griffith Foos' family and several others from the same state, came and settled in what is now known as Springfield. They built themselves logcabin homes, after having selected lots already laid out by Messrs Demint and Oaugherty, and soon a number of pioneers came in, and settled down, as citizens, until in the year 1804, there were about a dozen houses in the place. Among the principal residents, at that time, were James Demint, John Daugherty, Griffith Foos, Charles Stowe, John Reed, James Lowrej% J. Fields and two Frenchmen named Duboy and Lucoy, who dealt in goods suitable, mostly, for the Indian trade. Even during this short while, above named, the agencies of evil were here, several years in advance of the time when Chistian work had begun to exeet its beneficial influence upon the community. Whiskey, gambling, profanity, and occasional fighting, were all in evidence, but perhaps not to an unusual extent, as compared with other pioneer settlements.

The very first preaching ever held in Springfield was at Mr. Griffith Foos' log tavern, as early as 1803, first by a Rev. Mr. Thomas, a Baptist minister, and afterwards, at long intervals, by preachers of other evangelical denominations. But these irregular ministrations resulted, as it seems, in no church organization of any kind.

In the spring of 1804, a Mr. Walter Smallwood, with his wife, came to Springfield from Virginia, purchased a lot on the south side of Main Street, and built a residence near where the Western House now stands. Mr. Smallwood was a blacksmith and not a member of any church, nor was he a professor of religion. His wife was a woman of superior intelligence, cultivated manners and very active in all matters pertaining to the moral and social improvement of the little community. She became a prime mover and original member of what was called the Methodist Society, of that time, and she continued to labor in that sphere until 1806, when several persons of this religious affinity organized themselves in what should be regarded as the First Methodist Church of Springfield. Whilst speaking of this time as one of religious dearth and gloom, we have occasion to note the life of this Christian woman, especially, and to regard her as a sort of morning star, in the opening up of the religious day. She was said to have been remarkably gifted in prayer, and her choice words and sweet voice, melting in its tenderness, - were frequently heard in supplication in seasons of social worship, at her church. The character and work of this good woman would naturally claim our strong interest in her historv.

Mrs. Smallwood was the mother of six children - three boys and three girls - all of whom reached mature years, and, under the early teaching of their pious mother, identified themselves with the church and engaged in its active work. Her burning and shining light, amid the irreligious atmosphere surrounding her early life, had doubtless hurried the coming of a better religious era in Springfield.

For several years individual Christians had assembled themselves occasionally for worship, but in a somewhat unorganized capacity. Their usual place of meeting was at Nathaniel Pinkerd's log schoolhouse, on the northeast corner of Main and Market Streets, where a deep religious feeling was experienced by many, who soon after began to look toward a regular church organization.

As we wish to consider the religious denominations in chronological order so far as possible, and inasmuch as the Methodist people seem to have been the pioneers in this regard, we shall make a note of their work, first, and follow the destinies of that denomination down to the present time.

The records go to show that to the Methodist Episcopal Church belongs the credit of first establishing public worship as an organization, though they did not erect- their church building until the year 1814, four years after one had been built bv the Christian Society, of which we will speak later on. This first-named Methodist Episcopal Church was built during the pastoral charge of Revs. Jose])h

Tatum and Joseph Oglesby, when the ]\[ad River Circuit had a membership of 1,200. The incumbents of the Spring-field Station for the next nineteen years may be summarized as follows: Rev. Abbott Goddard, for 1815; Moses Crume and Henry Bascom, 1816 ; Walter Griffith and William Williams, 1817; John Sale and John Strange. 1818; Russell Biglow and Robert W. Finley, 1820; A. McLean, 1821; Thomas S. Hitt and George W. Maley, ]822; James CoUard and John J. Taylor, 1823; William Larnin, 1824; James T. Wells and George Gatch, 1825; Augustus Eddy and Levi AVliite. 1826 and 1827; Burroughs Westlake and Alfred M. Lorain, 1828 and 1829; Levi "White and Elias Potter, 1830 ; William H. Raper and James T. Donahoe, J. W. Reagan, Richard Brandruff and Joseph Hill then served as supplies until 1833. In 1833 William H. Raper being Presiding Elder of the I^ebanon District, the new Springfield Circuit was formed with a membership of 950 ; the first preachers under this arrangement being Revs. Joshua Boucher, J. P. Taylor and A. Sellers. It was during this year that the church edifice was built at the southeast corner of Columbia and ^ifarket Streets. It was large, two stories in height, with a gallery, and afforded ample room for the largest congregations that were likely to assemble in the town at that day. The church was without a belfry, and was called together at the ringing of the Court House bell, which, by arrangement, was rung at the same hour on the Sabbath for all the churches in the place. Afterward a belfry and a bell were procured, the bell being the same as now in use at the Central M. E. Church, on the northwest corner of Center and High Streets. This is the same organization, which was removed, later, from its old location on the corner of Columbia and Market Streets.

In 1834 Revs. Joshua Boucher and Granville Moody were in charge of Spring-field Circuit, with Rev. William H. Raper as Presiding Elder. This church was then continuously served by pastors as follows: For the years of 1835 and 1836, Revs. William A. Barrett, John Alexander, Michael Marley, E. B. Chase and Joseph Gasner; Mifflin Harker and James L. Grover, for 1837; M. Harker and Solomon Howard, 1838; William Young and Samuel Clark, with Zachariah Connell as Presiding Elder, 1839. In 1840, the charge at Springfield became a station, with Rev. AVilliam Young as pastor and a membership of 330. The pastorates were then continued as follows: Solomon Howard, in 1841; John W. Weakley. 1842 and 1843; William Herr, 1844; Uriah Heath, 1845; Randolph P. Foster, 1846 and 1847; Charles Elliott, 1848.

About this time a portion of the old church colonized and formed the High Street M. E. Church, the two bodies being served by Revs. Charles Elliott and Solomon Howard. In 1849 and 1850, the parent organization was supplied by Rev. iMaxwell P. Gaddis, when there was a membership of 446. Then came Rev. Granville Moody, in 1853 and 1854; Rev. James F. Chalfant, 1855; Joseph Newson, 1856; W. T. Ellsworth, 1857 and 1858; M. Dustin, 1859; Charles Ferguson, 1860 and 1861.

The present building, erected in 1862, at a cost of $22,000, added materially to the architectural beauty of the city, and constitutes a busy headquarters of Christian activity. This venerable H. E. Church has had seventy-one pastors since its existence of ninetj'-five years, which, perhaps, with the exception of one or two other churches, is the greatest number of ]3astors which has ever served any other church in the State of Ohio during the century just past. Springfield should thank God for the high privilege of having had such a religious organization, all these years, in its midst.

1849, with about 80 members, and has since become quite an efficient factor in the Christian cause here in this city. Levi Reinhart, Edmund Ogden, Christopher Thompson, L. N. Olds, John M. Young and S. S. Moler constituted the Board of Trustees. Their first church building- was dedicated July 27, 1851, Rev. John Dillon, afterward professor in Drew Theological Seminary, preaching the sermon on the occasion. The pastors of this charge successively were as follows: Revs. Isaac Dillon, in 1849; John S. Inskip, 1850; John W. Weakley, 1851; William H. Southerland, 1852-53 ; M. Dustin, 1854-55 ; John F. Marley, 1855-56; W. I. Fee, 1857- 58; Allen Trimble Thompson, 1860; George C. Crum, 1861-62; A. B. Wambaugh, 1864; G. U. Dart, 1865-66-67; Thomas Collett, 1868-69-70. During this last-named pastorate the church edifice was remodeled at a cost of $18,000. Thence onward the pastors were: Rev. Lucien Clark, from 1871 to 1874; William L. Hypes, 1874; S. B. Smith, 1875; F. G. Mitchell, 1876-77-78: Thomas J. Harris, 1879, during whose pastorate the membership was about 350. Next in the pastorates were: John F. Marlay, 1882-85; R. H. Rust, 1885-90; John R. Shannon, 1890- 91; A. H. Lucas, 1891-95; John A. Story, 1895-1905. The present" pastorate of Eugene P. Edmonds began October, 1905. Number of church membership, 600 and of Sunday school, 300.

The second colony from the First, or Central Methodist Episcopal Church, was organized into a church under the most favorable auspices, and took the name of the St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal

Church of Spring-field. This plan was effected on the 10th day of February, 1880, and involved the hearty and enthusiastic co-operation of 150 persons, many of whom were veteran Christian workers. They purchased a very fine, elevated lot, situated on the west sid,e of Yellow Springs Street, and erected upon it one of the most beautiful brick church edifices in the city, nearly one-third of which was contributed by Mr. P. P. Mast, one of Springfield's most liberal and philanthropic citizens, and who was a faithful member of the church thus benefited.

The organization of this church was formed in February, 1880, with 166 charter mettibers. including the following prominent persons: Mr. and Mrs. P. P. Mast, Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Deardorf, Mr. and Mrs. John Leuty, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. H. Houck, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Stafford, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Parsons, Mrs. E. S. Vale, and Mrs. M. E. Kinney. The church building was commenced in the spring of 1880, was finished in September, 1881, and dedicated by Bishop J. W. Wiley May 7, 1882; Rev. S. A. Brewster and Rev. W. N. Brodbeck, pastor, participated in the exercises. The estimated cost of the building was $45,000. The following is the list of pastors: Rev. W. N. Brodbeck, from September, 1880, to September, 1883; J. W. Bushong, 1883-84; Henry Tuckley, 1884-87; Thomas E. Collett, 1887-88; J. R. Shannon, 1888-89 ; G. W. Gullette, 1890- 90; G. W. Dubois, 1890-92; Paul C. Curnick, 1892-97; J. W. McGruder, 1897-99, and J. W. Peters, 1899-1905; John F. Chenoweth, 1905-1907; U. L. Ulter, 1907 - The present membershiiD of the church is 480, and number of officers, teachers and scholars of the Sundav-school is 215.

The oi'ganization of the Clifton Avenue M. E. Chuj'ch followed the organization of the Sabbath school and prayer meeting. Tlie idea of the organization originated in the Centra] M. E. Church of this city. The first session of the Sabbath school was held Sabbath afternoon, March 11, 1894; the first prayer meeting was held March 16, 1894. The first revival services were conducted by Rev. C. W. Barnes, the pastor of Central M. E. Church, during the week preceding Easter, in 1894. So encouraging was the great interest taken in the devotional meetings and Sabbath school, that it was determined to enter upon a church organization. The first step in this direction was a meeting called for consultation with the Presiding Elder, J. F. Marlay, D. D., by the pastor, C. W. Barnes, at the parsonage, Jime 19, 1894. Thei'e were present at the parsonage Rev. Dr. J. F. Marlay, Rev. C. W. Barnes, J. Griffith, J. S. Comer, J. B. Perrin, B. F. Kiplinger, and J. N. Wommer.

These five lajTnen were appointed to secure financial pledges for the coming year, and the pastor was instructed to secure a list of persons who would enter the new church. The number secured was about one hundred, and the formal organization of the church was accomplished August 13, 1894. The first Trustees were J. N. Wommer, J. Griffith, B. B. Littleton, W. S. Richardson and J. S. Comer. The first official board meeting of the new church was held August 21, 1894. The ladies organized an Aid Society August 26, 1894'; the young ladies made a similar organization August 21, 1894.

Methodist Union appointed Robert Johnson and Jeremiah Griffith a committee to ])urchase the church building from the I'ree-Will Baptist Society. This the committee did, and a united effort on the part of the church members and friends in the city enabled them to place the property in the church's name as the home for the future. On Easter Sunday, March 31, 1907, the mortgage was burned leaving the ]5roperty free from debt.

The member.^hip numbers about 350. The Sunday-school enrollment is 300 with an average attendance of over 200. The Superintendent is F. R. Henderson. Assistants, Fred Maurer, and J. B. Perrin.

The third off-shoot from the Central M. E. Clrarch was the Grace M. E. Church, situated on West Main Street, near the Pennsylvania House. This enterprise also was most liberally advanced and supported from first to last by the personal labors and generous pecuniary aid of Mr. P. P. Mast, who became most thoroughly identified with its religious work. A neat, but sufficiently commodious frame house, was built in 1872, at a cost of $1,800, which was dedicated on Sunday, August 12, 1873, the sermon on the occasion being preached by Rev. Charles Ferguson. Al-

What is now known as the North Street African Methodist Episcopal Church was, according- to the most reliable tradition, organized about the year 1824. Even before that time a few Christian colored people, most of whom had once been slaves, were in the habit of gathering in their humble cabins, or barns, and holding religious services. Their first church building, one at first used as a schoolhouse, stood on, the site of what was later known as the Bacon property, on East Main Street. Then they purchased a little stone church, on Limestone Street, near the creek. As the society continued to grow in numbers and means, it bought, a small brick edifice formerly belonging to the St. John Lutheran folks, located on East North Street, where their present church now stands, for the sum of $800. On September 28, 1874, the body was legally incorporated, and preparations were commenced for building their present large brick edifice, which was completed during the year 1876, at a cost of about $12,000. Among the earliest preachers were the Revs. Thomas Lawrence, Fayette Davis, and Mr. Kingman. We have secured the following list of pastors besides the ones already mentioned, so far as possible, from the most accessible records, since 1879, their terms of service commencing and ending in October of the respective years: Rev. J. W. Gazaway was pastor from 1880 to 1882; Rev. J. H. Jackson, from 1882 to 1884; O. P. Ross, from 1883 to 1884; W. T. Maxwell, from 1887 to 1889; Robert Johnson, from 1889 to 1890 ; R. C. Ransom, from 1890 to 1893; G. A. Collins, from 1893 to 1896; ^V. H. Coston, from 1896 to 1897; William J. Johnson, from 1897 to 1899, and from October, 1899, to this time. Rev. J. S. Ferguson. The present membership of this church is 400, and the number of Sunday-school pupils is 125; teachers, 11, and officers, 10.

This church was organized May 5, 1867, by nine persons coming from the old North Street A. M. E. Church, but under the auspices of the Cincinnati, or White, conference.

June 1st, 1867, Wm. Chinn, J. J. Whetsell, and Samuel Dudley were constituted a committee to "look for a lot and report at the next meeting" and in a week after, this committee reported that a lot could be had on South Center Street for $300, $50 cash and the rest in payments. The report was favorably received and the lot was purchased. The sisters furnished

Since the organization of the church the following pastors have served this charge: 1st, Rev. P. Fullman, five months. Rev. Scott Ward, five months and church built. Rev. Samuel Davage, three years; membership increased to seventy full members and twelve probationers, and sixty in the Sunday-school. Rev. H. Butler, six months. Rev. John Downs and Rev. Austin, fourteen months. Rev. W. C. Echols, three months. Rev. H. W. Johnson, six months. Rev. A. Price, six months. Rev. A. W. Hargrave, one year. Rev. Scott Ward one year. Rev. Arthur Johnson, one year; membership increased to 100 full members and ten probationers. Rev. M. McCoomer, one year ; membership increased to 180 full members and eighteen probationers. The Sunday-school numbered eighty. Rev. T. M. Thompkins, one year. Rev. Chas. Jones, one year. Re^. J. W. Morel and, one year. Church remodeled and reopened and name changed from Asbury to Wiley M. E. Church. Rev. Henry Cardozo, six months. Rev. W. S. Lankford, six months; parsonage built. Rev. Henrs^ W. Tate, three years ; enrolled at beginning of term, 121, enlarged to 178. Rev. G. W. Ziegler, two years ; church debt cancelled. Rev. G. A. Sissle. one year. Rev. W. A. White, two years. Rev. Joseph Courtney, one year. Rev. W. B. Harris, two years. Rev. N. H. Tolbert, five years. Rev. W. M. Langford, two years ; foundation laid for a new church. Rev. T. L. Ferguson, four and one-half years: membership increased to 400 and the present edifice erected. In all twenty-seven pastors.

The Presiding Elders who served during these years were : Rev. Wm. C. Echols, Rev. \\. L. Muir, one and a half years. Rev. Marshall W. Taylor, D. D., forir and a half years and elected editor of Southwestern Christian Advocate. Rev. Joseph Courtney, four years. Rev. E. W. S. Hammond, elected editor of Southwestern Christian Advocate. Rev. M. S. Johnson, five years Rev. T. L. Ferguson, six years. Rev. H. AV. Simmons, two years. Rev. Elam A. White, our present Presiding Elder.

Wiley M. E. Church has a hopeful future and under the present officers hope to make these years following some of the ijiost successful in the history of the church.

This church, located on the corner of Boler and Clifton Streets, was organized in May, 1881. The opening sermon was preached by Rev. B. F. Lee, then President of AVilberforce College, now Bishop. There were seven charter members, and the following is a list of pastors since the organization: Revs. C. W. Crosby, Alex. Smith and R. G. Blunt, 1882 ; O. P. Ross, 1883; .lesse Henderson, 1884-85; D. Dorsey, 1886, Rev. Joseph Artope filling out his year; Rev. W. N. Tate, 1888; Rev. C. Phelps, 1889; Rev. M. E. Davis, 1890-91- 92-93; Rev. G. W. Jackson, 1894; Rev. Jesse Smith, 1895; George Bundy, 1896; M. Mason, 1897; J. Maxwell, 1898; D. D. Lewis, 1899. Rev. Dr. A. H. Hill is the present pastor. No other statistics have been furnished the writer.

This chiirch is located iu one of the popular sections of the city, and has a great future. The present pastor is trying hard to relieve it from all of its embarrassments and hopes in a few days to pay off its entire indebtedness.

The Methodist Protestant Cluirch, located at first on North Street, aftei-ward on Washington Street, and finally on Pleasant Street, was organized in January, 1829, with twenty members, Revs. L. and M. Henkel taking an active part. There were then but three other churches in Spring-field, namely, the Methodist Episcopal, the Presbyterian, and tlie Seceder, now United Presbyterian. The. first pastor was Rev. A. McGuire, with Rev. Jonathan Floyd as colleague. In 1837 Rev. A. H. Bassett was pastor and also editor of the Methodist Recorder, the church paper. Rev. A. C. Barnes became pastor in 1838-39; David Croll, in 1840; 0. P. Stephens, in 1843; James Pelan, in 1844; Reuben Rose, 1848-49; W. G. Fowler, 1849; Reuben Dalby, 1850; Charles H. Williams, 1851-52 ; N. S. Smith, 1853, at which time the membership was about one hundred. The succession was continued in the following order, but the dates of their services have not been accessible to the narrator: T. B. Graham, T. Heard, S. S. Bartlett, J. E. Snowden, J. B. Walker, J. W. McFarland, J. W. Ellis, J. W. Spring, W. E. Marsh, J. M. Flood, W. R. Parsons and others. This church having become weakened by deaths, removals and lack of sufficient financial support, and other causes, finally disbanded their organization, sold their property, a good, substantial brick edifice on West Pleasant Street, and the surviving membership became merged into the churches of other denominations. This organization,, largely made up of earnest, industrious, godly men and women, existed in our midst for about sixty-five years, faithfully battling for Truth and Righteousness. Their existence had greatly blessed this community and the world.

In trying to obsei've as nearly as possible a chronological order in regard to the origin of our local denominations, we will now go back as far as the years 1810- 11. Four years after the orig-nal organization of the Methodist Church, but three years before the latter had erected their house of worship, the "Christians," then sometimes called "New Lights," put up the first house of worship ever built in Spring-field. This was accomplished largely under the patronage of Mr. Griffitli Foos and a few others, from Kentucky, who seem at one time to have been members of that denomination, in their former home. This house was 20x30 feet, was built of logs and situated on the west side of Mill Run a few rods west of where the Zimmerman Fountain now stands on Center Street. The subscriptions for this pioneer church edifice in Springfield consisted in part of money, but mostly of dry goods, groceries, live stock, lumber and labor, on the part of those aiding in the work. Althougli the building was put up under the auspices of the people belonging to the Christian denomination, as we learn, it was the understanding at the time that it was to be free for the use of all denominations. The organization, or whatever there was of it, lasted but tifteen years, and in 1825 the house was entirely abandoned for church purposes.

We do not see or hear anything more of this denomination in Springfield, until in the spring of 1881, when Elder C. J. Jones, an evangelist from Philadelphia, by way of renewing, or, rather, commencing their denominational work in Springfield, came here, and with the assistance of Rev. A. VV. Coan, editor of "The Herald of Gospel Liberty," at Dayton, Ohio, began a series of meetings in Black's Opera House, which in a few months eventuated in a church organization. As a result, these Christian people, within four months, purchased a valuable lot on West High Street, between Mechanic and Plum Streets, and built a neat, commodious chapel, capable of seating 600 persons. In this they were assisted by the liberal subscriptions of quite a number of large-hearted manufacturers and other business men. Many persons outside of the organization gave from $50 to $100 each. This new church building was dedicated to the worship of God in December, 1882, with a membership of nearly one hundred persons.

Rev. Mr. Jones remained as pastor of this church for two years and was followed by Rev. J. M. McWliinney, for four months; Nicholas Summerbell, for eighteen months ; Byron Long, for ten months ; J. F. Strait, "for two years ; C. W. Choat, for nine months ; E. D. Hammond,

The people of this denomination discard all written creeds, except the Holy Scriptures, and place much stress upon the tenet, concerning the direct influence of the Holy Spirit upon the human soul, and his vital importance in the conviction, conversion and sanctification of mankind. About this time the minds of many citizens were somewhat confused in regard to the nature and status of this new Christian movement. A popular misunderstanding concerning it was all the more natural and excusable from the fact that a large religious denomination, churches of which are located principally in Kentucky and other portions of the southwest, generally calling themselves Disciples' Church, and of whom the Rev. Alexander Campbell, president of Bethany College, Virginia, was a talented and distinguished leader, have also, in many instances of late, assumed the Catholic name, "Christian Church." Frequent explanations of the matter became all the more necessary at the time from the fact that, during nearly the same dates as above mentioned, a church of this last-named branch of the Christian denominations was formed in this city, and known as the Disciples' Church of Christ in Springfield. Marion W. Baker has been the pastor for several years past, the church being without a regailar pastor since he resigned in 1906.

September 5, 1886. These good people finally erected a neat and commodious frame edifice on the southeast corner of Mulberry and Yellow Springs Streets, where church services and a Sundayschool are regularly maintained. This house of worship, from foundation to finish, owing to delays, required from 1892 to 1893 in building, and was dedicated in 1894, Governor Ira B. Chase, of Indiana, delivering the dedication discourse. There is a present membership of 450, and there are 350 in the Sunday-school. A complete list of pastors includes Rev. B. C. Black, who served from 1889 to 1890; E. W. Hammon, 1890-91 ; H. Elliott Ward, 1891- 93; Horace Sibrell, 1893-94; J. P. Childs, 1895; E. T. Hayes, 1895-97 ; J. S. Bonham, 1898-99; W. A. Harp, 1899-1907. This church has had nine regular pastors.

In 1906 the church was enlarged and remodeled and converted into a quite modern and beautiful edifice, at a cost of about $9,000. It is now a brick veneer with auditorium, lecture-room, classrooms, kitchen, and large dining-room.

Many special meetings have been held and nearly 800 have been added to the membership during the present pastorate and but for death and removals this would be one of the largest congregations in the city.

The congregation is quite thoroughly organized with splendid C. E. and Junior Endeavor, Women's Missionary Society, Men's League, five strong bands in the Ladies' Aid, Home Department and Cradle roll in the Sunday-school. The congregation is not only evangelistic but has given much attention to the care of widows and orphans.

Says Dr. Kay, "I am indebted to my aged friend, William A. Barnett, Esq., for the following particulars in regard to the history of the United' Presbyterian Church of this city. Mr. Barnett has been an intelligent and exemplary member, and firm supporter of this church for more than half a century, and he yet lives to bless our community with his presence. Prom him we learn that it is difficult to give the exact date of its first oi-ganization, which was effected under the name of the Associate Reform Presbyterian Church. This society, for the first nineteen years of its existence, was a branch of what is now the First United Presbyterian Church of Xenia, and the first minister was the Rev. John Steele, who came f^om Bourbon County, Kentucky, in 1817, at a salary of $500 per year for both congregations, preaching here one-fourth of the time, and the balance of the time in Xenia. Serving the double charge for nineteen years, his son, Rev. John Steele, Jr., says his father never missed but twice in filling his appointments here, and that was when he was sick, and during a protracted illness of Mrs. Steele. Mr. Steele left home on horseback early on Sabbath mornings and came to Mr. James Stewart's, six miles south of town for breakfast, and then came to town and preached two sermons and returned home in the evening, having had a ride of forty miles. He resigned the double charge in 1836, and retired from the ministry, after preaching forty vears. ' '

In 1838 Rev. James P. Sawj^er became pastor, for all of the time, and about this time the society became an organized congregation. On account of ill health, Mr. Sawyer gave up the charge in 1848. The Rev. Robert Henry was the next pastor, from December, 1850, until June, 1853. Rev. Joseph Clokey was pastor from March 1, 1855, to March 1, 1875. Rev. Joseph Kyle became pastor January 1, 1877, and continued until July, 1891. Rev. R. H. Hume, the present incumbent, became pastor June 1, 1892.

This society was incorporated by the Legislature of Ohio, December 17, 1830. In May, 1858, the Associate Presbyterian and the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Churches united, and formed the United Presb>i:erian Church. The persons who were the nucleus of the congregation came from Rev. John Steele's congregation in Bourbon County, Kentucky. They were James Steele, Mr. Snodgrass, Mr. Kirkpatric (an elder), a son-in-law of Mr. Steele, and all relatives of Rev. Mr. Steele. At a later date, James Dallas, of near Urbana, and his brother, who resided in Spring-field, James Bogle, Richey Wisley, James Stewart, David Cowan, George Mc- Cullough, John Goudy, Robert Goudy and Anthony Byrd were added to the society. Mr. Kirkpatric, James Steele, David 'Hunter, James Bogle and James Dallas were the first elders. At a later date William Cowan, William Kirkpatric, William Hunter and Mr. Hume were added to the society.

Before erecting a church building, the congregation, for want of a better place, worshiped in the second story of William Mclntire's distillery, at the northeast corner of Columbia and Spring Streets, the present location of the Blee Brewery. There was no evidence of any harm arising from so near contact with whiskey; the spirits upstairs did not mingle with those below.

The first house of worship was a stone building, erected in North Limestone Street, near Buck Creek, in or about 1819. The next building was erected in 1839, on Limestone Street, south of High Street, where James Carson & Company's store and the Kelly Building now stand. The present building at the corner of Mulberry and Limestone Streets, was erected in 1886. The present membership is two hundred and thirty.