Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin - Chapter 17: Religious, 1912

Chapter 17: Religious

THE ORGANIZATION OF CHURCHES IN FOND DU LAC EARLY EFFECTED - FIRST RE¬ LIGIOUS SERVICES HELD IN THE LOG CABINS OF THE SETTLERS' - HISTORY OF THE

Churches Of The Chief City

On the 3d of September, 1848, the organization of St. Paul's Episcopal church took place in the courthouse. Among the first members were ex-Governor N. P. Tallmadge, Chief Justice Stow of the supreme court, Lieutenant Governor S. W. Beall and General George D. Ruggles. Steps were taken in 1850 to build a church edifice and in the meantime services were held in Darling's block. The lot was given by Judge Macy and was located on the corner of Follet and Ban¬ nister streets. The church was completed in 1852, the first service being held therein on the 12th of March. The first rector was the Rev. Joshua Sweet, who served until 1863. In 1867 a new church building was erected on the present site of the cathedral, at a cost of $20,000. When the Rt. Rev. J. H. Hobart Brown became bishop of the diocese in December, 1875, steps were taken at once to make Fond du Lac the see city, and the rector and vestry of St. Paul's church offered the realty belonging to the corporation to the bishop for cathedral pur¬ poses, and all the pew holders deeded their rights to the bishop and on the feast of the conversion of St. Paul, January 25, 1876, St. Paul's cathedral was instituted.

The cathedral was destroyed by fire on Friday morning, January 25, 1884. A movement to rebuild promptly followed and a structure larger and more costly than the original edifice was erected. The first service in the new cathedral was held on Easter morning, 1887, although the building was in an unfinished condi¬ tion and the first regular worship was held on the 6th of June following. The diocese was thrown into deep mourning by the death of the beloved Bishop Brown, which occurred on the 2d of May, 1888. The Rev. Fr. Grafton, then of Providence, Rhode Island, was elected to succeed the lamented bishop, the consecration taking place on the 25th of April, 1889. Several rectors, eminent in the Episcopal church, have officiated at St. Paul's and prominent among them was the eloquent and gifted Rev. James de Koven, D. D., who preached his last sermon in the old cathedral before it burned.

Charles Chapman Grafton was born in Boston, Massachusetts, April 12, 1830. His father was Major Joseph Grafton, U. S. A., of the war of 1812, and later surveyor of the customs of Boston. His mother was Maria Gurley, only child of John Ward Gurley, attorney general of Louisiana. The Graf tons are an old Salem family, having come to this country in the early days of the colony. Its connection with the church is of long standing, since tradition has it that "Rich¬ ard Grafton, printer to the Kinges Majestic," in 1850, who printed the first Eng¬ lish Prayer Book, was a member of the family. The future bishop of Fond du Lac was educated in the Boston Latin school and after leaving that institution entered the law school of Harvard, receiving the degree of LL. B. from Har¬ vard University, and then decided to study for Holy Orders. His theological studies were conducted under the direction of Bishop Wittingham, of Maryland. He was ordained deacon by the Rt. Rev. W. R. Wittingham, D. D. LL. D., in St. Peter's church, Ellicotts' Mills, Maryland, December 23, 1855. His diaconate was spent as assistant at Reistertown, Maryland, and at the Associate Mission House in Baltimore, of which he was one of the founders. He was ordained priest in St. Paul's church, Baltimore, May 30, 1858, by the same prelate who had conferred deacon's orders upon him. Upon being ordained to the priest¬ hood, Mr. Grafton became curate at St. Paul's, Baltimore, and was appointed by the bishop as chaplain to the Diocesan Order of Deaconesses.

In i860 Mr. Grafton was elected rector at St. Peter's church, Philadelphia, one of the most important parishes in the country, and from which the former rector, W. H. Odenheimer, D. D., had just been elevated to the Episcopacy. This honor Mr. Grafton declined. In 1865 Mr. Grafton went to England, with the cordial approbation of his bishop, for the purpose, if possible, of organizing a society or brotherhood on monastic lines. Such religious orders had not flour¬ ished in the Anglican church since the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII, and his followers. Mr. Grafton soon found other men who were praying and longing for a restoration of the religious life, so in company with the Rev. S. W. O'Neil and the Rev. R. M. Benson, a community was formed at Cowley, Oxford, under the name of The Society of St. John the Evangelist. No constitution was framed at that time or for many years, it being thought wiser to wait until that society developed its needs. The chief work of this society was the preaching of Missions, which is a churchly form of what are popularly called revivals. But the work was not inconsistent with regular parish work, as is shown by the fact that in 1872 "Father" Grafton, as he was then called, became rector of the Church of the Advent, Boston.

The Church of the Advent has always stood for whatever is called "advanced" teachings. It had numbered among its rectors such names as Dr. William Croswell, Dr. Bowles and Bishop Southgate. In the calling of Father Grafton to the rectorship, this policy was maintained. The church stood for free seats and an open church, with frequent and hearty services. Father Grafton's rectorship lasted from 1872 to 1888, during which time he saw many wonderful changes and developments in and out of his own parish. A new parish church was built at a cost of about $300,000. An American house was founded for the English Sisterhood of St. Margaret's, East Grinstead, and subsequently another Sister- hood, that of the Holy Nativity, was founded. In addition to these works and the great cares of his large and growing city parish, Father Grafton was con¬ stantly engaged in giving "Missions" throughout the country and in writing on religious topics. The number of communicants in his parish grew from 250 to 600. and a section of the parish which had separated from the mother church, grew also to about 600 communicants.

In 1888 Father Grafton resigned his rectorship of the Church of the Advent and removed to Providence, Rhode Island, establishing there the Mother House of the Sisters of the Holy Nativity. This Sisterhood has now grown large and strong under the fostering care of its founder and is represented in several dioceses.

In 1889 Father Grafton was elected bishop of Fond du Lac, to succeed the Rt. Rev. J. H. Hobart Brown, S. T. D. The consecration of the bishop took place in the Fond du Lac cathedral on St. Mark's day, April 25, 1889, by the Rt. Rev. W. E. McLaren, D. D., LL. D., bishop of Chicago, assisted by the Rt. Rev. Alexander Burgess, S. T. D., the Rt. Rev. G. F. Seymour, S. T. D., LL. D., the Rt. Rev. D. B. Knickerbacker, S. T. D., the Rt. Rev. M. N. Gilbert, D. D., and the Rt. Rev. C. F. Knight, D. D., D. C. L. The occasion was one of great demonstration in the Cathedral City, many notables coming from other par^s of the country to attend.

During Bishop Grafton's Episcopacy the church in his diocese was strength¬ ened and developed in a wonderful way. A large number of churches and mis¬ sions which had been closed and abandoned were reopened, among these be¬ ing Berlin, Waupun, Omro, Oakfield, Menasha, Waupaca, Medford, Washburn, Bayfield, Antigo, Merrill, Rhinelander, Tomahawk, Manitowoc and Two Rivers. Rectories have been built or purchased in Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, Appleton, Stevens Point, Waupaca, Ahnapee, Sheboygan Falls and Berlin. Many new church buildings have been erected, besides guild halls, etc.

It is sometimes said that the diocese of Fond du Lac is a small one. The contrary is the fact. The diocese comprises 27,000 square miles and has a popm lation of 587,983. There are about twenty-two places in which there is neither parish or mission in working condition. The population is largely foreign and from Roman Catholic countries. The work of the church has been done in spite of every obstacle. After many months of illness, endured patiently and with Christian resignation, the beloved pastor gave up the life he had devoted to his people, August 30, 1912, at the age of 82.

Grafton Fi All

In a retired corner of Fond du Lac, at the north end of Sophia street, is Grafton Hall - a girls' school - of which the city is justly proud.

St. Paul's congregation has always been interested in Christian education. At one time a parish school with an attendance of 150 pupils was successfully maintained. The large wooden building connected with the cathedral was built for this purpose, and an able force of teachers was supported. About the year 1880 a boarding department was added for both boys and girls, which was continued for three or four years. In 1886 Mrs. Delano moved to Fond du Lac and under the direction of Bishop Brown organized the Sisterhood of St.

Monica for widows, and provided a home for a girls' boarding school. Mrs. Bennett was placed in charge of the school work. At the end of five years the school was placed on the accredited list of the State University.

In the autumn of 1893 Grafton Hall corporation was duly organized under a state charter, and to it was deeded that portion of the school property then belonging to St. Monica House. In 1895 two adjoining lots were purchased and the erection of a new school building was begun. This was completed in the autumn of 1896 at a cost of $45,000. The building is a model of convenience and elegance most complete in all its appointments. It stands on the north side of the school grounds, fronting south, and just across the yard is the handsome cathedral. The school building is 143 feet long and 54 feet wide. It is built of Fond du Lac gray limestone, with a blue slate roof. On the first floor are the class rooms, study hall, library, grand hall, reception room, dining hall, kitchen, etc. Twenty-five single bedrooms, infirmary and bath rooms, are found on the second floor, all well lighted and comfortably furnished. The individual rooms for each pupil are a great attraction, and the furniture of white birch with white enamel and brass bedsteads is most attractive. The plumbing is the latest and best. On the third floor is the large culture hall, with open rafters. This hall is used during school hours by the music department, and in the free periods, for recreation purposes. Here the basket ball contests are waged during the winter, and many a Saturday night is passed, long to be remembered. Ten music rooms adjoin, and the art studio, with its attractive features. The chapel is at the west end, where the roof again opens out into Gothic arches, and the surroundings prompt devotion. Once a day the school gathers here and many a helpful resolu¬ tion is suggested that leads to higher aims and ideals.

This school is exclusively for girls and young ladies. They may enter at twelve years of age and are prepared for any college they may elect. Four courses of study are oflfered : the Ancient Classical, Latin Scientific, Modern Classical and English. These are carried through the sophomore year as pur¬ sued at the university, with additional advantages in German and French. Ex¬ tended courses are provided in piano forte, violin and vocal music, elocution and voice culture. A well equipped art studio gives advantages in drawing, char¬ coal, antique, still life, water color, oil painting and art illustrating. A course is also offered in art needle work.

Sisters Of The Holy Nativity

The convent of the Sisters of the Holy Nativity, situated on East Division street, Fond du Lac, is a branch house of the order which is located at Provi¬ dence, Rhode Island, and of which the present bishop of Fond du Lac was the founder. The Sisterhood was organized in Boston, in 1882, removing to Prov¬ idence in 1888. The works in which the Sisters are engaged are various. Some are engaged in parish work, others in assisting priests in giving missions, others are devoted to ecclesiastical embroidery, and others are engaged in literary work, having produced such helpful books as "Our Family Ways," and "The New Creation." The Fond du Lac branch was established in 1890, the house which was formerly the Amory residence having been presented to the Sisters by one of their associates. The Sister in charge of this branch is Sister Rebecca, S. H.

Catholic Home For The Aged Grafton Hall, Fond Du Lac

N., under whose direction most of the western work of the Sisters is managed. From the Fond du Lac house Sisters have been sent at different times to most of the parishes and missions in the diocese, teaching, visiting, supplying books, holding informal meetings, opening Sunday schools and giving Bible talks to congregations gathered in farm houses, kitchens or schoolhouses.

Cathedral Choir School

The Cathedral Choir School stands unique among the private schools of the country. It is founded upon the plan of the choir schools in England, with an endowment which enables it to receive boys at a great reduction in price of tuition. In return they render a service of singing in St. Paul's cathe¬ dral. Besides the choristers proper, a few other boys are admitted, as also in the English choir schools. One or two free scholarships, covering board and tuition, are given to boys with very fine voices and able to do solo work. With this musical exception, the education is the same as at other schools. Boys are prepared for college or for business, but special encouragement is given to the study of the classics.

The buildings are entirely modern, equipped with hot and cold water, heated by steam and lighted by gas and electricity. The advantages offered are a thor¬ ough education in a first class school at a very low rate of tuition.

First Presbyterian Church

On the 26th day of February, 1855, in Fond du Lac, twelve people met to¬ gether for the purpose of organizing a society, which was named the First Pres¬ byterian church. These persons, having obtained letters of dismissal from the First Congregational church of the city, constituted the charter membership and were as follows: Erastus W. Drury and wife, Deborah Van Patten Drury; Daniel R. Van Dyne and wife, Phebe; James Monroe Gillet and wife, Emeline E. ; William Jones and wife, Elizabeth; Joseph S. Trigg and wife, Susanna; Mary Ann Broady and Mrs. Rebecca Smith. Of this number Mrs. Emeline E. Gillet, of Appleton, Wisconsin, is now the only survivor. Regular prayer meet¬ ings were held in the homes of the members, and occasional preaching services were held, first in Darling's hall at the corner of Main and First streets, and afterwards in the Marr Street schoolhouse. Eventually a building was erected on the southeast corner of Main and Rees streets, the ground and building cost¬ ing $7,000. The city, having in a few years grown to the south instead of the north, the congregation decided to move the church, and on the first Sunday in December, 1865, the congregation was settled at the new location, on the south¬ east corner of Sheboygan and Wingate (now Marr), streets, which has since been its permanent home, although additions and improvements have been made.

The church has prospered and now has a membership of 175, while the Sun¬ day school numbers 120 members. There are also a Woman's Society, Woman's Missionary Society and Deborah Society, all in flourishing condition. On the 26th of February, 1905, the church celebrated its fiftieth anniversary.

The pastors who have served the church from the time of its organization to the present are: Rev. Reuben Frame who began his labors as stated supply

April 1, 1855, and served until February, 1858, when, on account of lack of funds, he was relieved from the service and the church was then without a pastor until April 1, i860, when Rev. Henry M. Robertson came as stated supply, serving as such until January 24, 1861. On the 4th of February, of the latter year, he became the regular pastor, serving until September 26, 1866. Thomas G. Smith became pastor April 17, 1866, serving until March 31, 1874. His successor was Rev. Thomas C. Kirkwood, who served from May 19, 1874, to December 20, 1878. For ten months the church was without a pastor, the pulpit being sup¬ plied by various ministers. Rev. Donald Dross became stated supply October 20, 1879, and remained until May 17, 1881. Since then the pastors have been: John P. Hale, June 16, 1881 -June 1, 1886; Joseph A. Milburn, July 13, 1887- June 9, 1890; John Baltzly, December 30, 1890- June 9, 1896; William H. llifif, November 10, 1896-March 27, 1897; A. C. V. Skinner, September 10, 1897-June 20, 1898; A. W. Bill, October 16, 1898-April 1, 1900; Louis P. Peeke, June 20, 1900-Tune 20, 19 1 1 ; James Edgar Wilson, September 1, 1911, who is the present pastor.

First Baptist Church

A few people met in the Franklin schoolhouse on East Main street, near what is now Third street, May 21, 1845, and consummated the organization of what has since been known as the First Baptist church. The charter members included David SpafTord, Hannah Spafford, Hannah J. Spafford, Wanton Hall, Fanny Hall, Adah Peck, Sarah Ann Stevens, Henry Conklin and Mary Conklin. The first meetings were held in this schoolhouse and a little later usually were held in Taycheedah, the members constituting this society mostly living in that neighborhood. During the first four months the congregation had no regular pastor but on the 4th of November, 1845, Rev. Henry .Hovey was called to the pulpit. He served until the following year and on the 10th of November, 1846, was succeeded by Rev. W. H. Card, who served the church until 1850, his suc¬ cessor being Rev. Samuel Cornelius, who served from 1850 until 1855. It was during his pastorate that plans were made for the erection of a house of wor¬ ship, the initial step in this direction being taken August 16, 1851. The funds, however, were soon exhausted and in order to complete the building, Rev. Corne¬ lius went east to secure money for this purpose. He obtained in this way a thousand dollars and this, with an additional amount subscribed by the mem¬ bers, completed the building, which was dedicated December 29, 1853. This, was a frame structure and stood on the corner of Forest avenue and Union street, serving the needs of the congregation for more than a half century.

In August, 1859, the Taycheedah congregation disbanded and thirteen of the number applied for admission into the church at Fond du Lac. From this time on the church continued to grow and in time the building proved entirely inade¬ quate to the needs of the membership, so that in 1906 steps were taken toward the erection of a new structure, the cornerstone of which was laid May 28th of that year. The building was finished and dedicated April 21, 1907, the dedicatory ser¬ mon being delivered by Rev. L. A. Crandall, of Minneapolis. The building, lo¬ cated on the northwest corner of Macy and First streets, is a handsome structure built in Gothic style of architecture, the outer walls being of vitrified brick, of chocolate color, with Bedford stone trimmings. The windows are of opales- cent glass in green and brown. In 1911 a pipe organ was installed. The cost of the building, including the site, was $30,000. The main auditorium has a seating capacity of 300, and this room, which can be thrown into the Sunday school room, seats 600. The present membership numbers 375, while the Sun¬ day school has an enrollment of 200. There is also a Young People's Union with a membership of 100, in addition to a Woman's Missionary Society num¬ bering 50. The church is supported entirely by voluntary subscription.

First Congregational Church

This society was organized in a schoolhouse on Alain street, July 19, 1846, under the supervision of Rev. Stephen Peet. There were nine charter members, as follows: Jerry Homiston and Alary, his wife; James Wright and Martha, his wife; William Carey and Polly Ann, his wife; Mrs. S. S. N. Fuller; Airs. Margaret Perry ; and Amanda Bannister.

Aleetings were held in the schoolhouse in which the organization was effected, but there was no regular pastor until September, 1846, when Rev. L. C. Spafford assumed pastoral charge and remained until the fall of 1852. In December, 1846, Deacon K. Gillet and Hon. James M. Gillet, with their families, nine mem¬ bers, joined the church.

In February, 1847, steps were taken toward the erection of a house of wor¬ ship, and for this purpose Dr. Alason C. Darling deeded a lot on the corner of Adarr and Second streets, on which a small frame building was erected, but owing to the lack of funds this was not completed and ready for occupancy until Alarch, 1850, and even then the interior was unfinished. This building cost the congregation $900. However, during the construction of this building, the old schoolhouse having burned, and the courthouse having been built, services were held therein until the new church could be occupied.

In 1853 Rev. Silas Hawley assumed charged of the church. Early in this year several members withdrew to form a Presbyterian denomination, but this organization was not consummated until in 1856, when thirty-seven more mem¬ bers applied for letters of dismissal and with those who had previously left the church formed a society afterward known as Plymouth church. About this time Rev. Hawley resigned and Rev. E. Brown filled the pulpit for six months thereafter, his successor being Rev. W. A. Baldwin, who remained two years. In the meantime the Congregational people had begun the erection of a stone building on Forest avenue, which was later used as a grist mill. The walls had reached the height of fifteen feet, when the division in the congregation occurred and the half finished church was sold.

streets, and under the pastoral charge of Rev. W. L. Mather, occupied the same four years, at the end of which time the two congregations reunited and wor¬ shiped in Plymouth chapel. The old building on Marr and Second streets was sold to the Free Baptist society and Rev. R. H. Williamson was chosen pastor of the reunited congregations, remaining in charge four years. Rev. C. W. Camp assumed charge in July, 1863. By this time the church proved inadequate to the needs of the growing congregation and in 1865 a movement was begun for the erection of a new building and as a result, a fine brick structure on the corner of Sheboygan and Wingate (now Marr) streets, was dedicated in the month of October, 1869, at a cost of $37,634, not including the furnishings. This house of worship served the congregation for more than forty years but on the night of September 25, 1908, it was destroyed by fire. In the following year steps were taken toward the erection of a new and handsome edifice, the same being dedicated on Sunday, March 6, 1910. In style of architecture the building is Romanesque. It stands on a solid granite foundation, and the walls are of red granite, with brown stone trimmings. The main floor of the auditorium has a seating capacity of 500 and the balcony will accommodate an additional 250. The interior is beautifully finished and furnished and is conveniently arranged for banquets and social gatherings as well as for the regular church services, having parlors, kitchen, cloak rooms, etc. A recreation hall is also located in the basement, which serves as the headquarters of the Knights of King Arthur, as well as for the simpler forms of athletics. Many memorials have been presented to the church in the way of windows, furniture, etc., but perhaps the largest gift is the splendid pipe organ, presented by Phinelan B. and Ellen D. Haber, in memory of their daughter, Marie Dickinson Haber, who died May 22, 1896. The entire cost of the building, including the organ and furnishings, is $53,000, of which $13,000 was received from the insurance on the old building, while the remaining $40,000 was raised by the congregation six weeks prior to the dedication of the building.

As previously stated, the first pastor to serve the reorganized congregation was Rev. R. H. Williamson, who remained four vears. His successors have been as follows: Revs. C. W. Camp, 1863-68; Arthur Little, 1868-78; E. M. Betts, 1878-81; John Safiford, 1881-85; Samuel T. Kidder, 1885-92; David L. Holbrook, 1892-99; Joseph H. Chandler, 1900-07; Lewis H. Keller, 1908 to the present time, 1912.

Division Street Methodist Episcopal Church

The Division Street Methodist church claims the distinction of being the pioneer religious organization in the city of Fond du Lac. The first sermon ever preached in the city was November 17, 1839, in the home of Dr. Mason C. Darling, a log structure, by Rev. Jesse Halsted. At that time there were not more than three hundred people in the entire county of Fond du Lac. After that year no regular services were held until 1843, in which year Rev. H. S. Brunson was appointed to take charge of what then constituted Fond du Lac circuit, which covered a wide area of territory. Prior to this, however, occasional services had been held by itinerant ministers in private homes. Upon the arrival of Rev. Brunson, he formed an organization in November, 1843, composed of the following members: Charles Olmsted and Sarah B., his wife; D. C. Brooks and Eliza Ann, his wife; Norman Pier and Sarah, his wife; Mrs. Parsons and Francis McCarty. This class was organized in the home of Edward Pier, two miles south of the city. Thereafter regular preaching services were held in the homes of the members until the erection of a schoolhouse on Main street, in 1843. A little later this schoolhouse was removed to Fifth street and con¬ tinued to be used for religious purposes until it was burned, December 12, 1848. By this time the new courthouse had been built and it was used for religious services until a church was erected.

In 1844 Rev. Joseph Lewis was appointed to the Fond du Lac circuit and remained one year, his successor being Rev. Morgan L. Noble. In 1847, Rev. H. R. Colman became pastor, and it was during his ministry that the first step was taken toward the erection of a house of worship. Rev. Colman remained one year but on account of ill health was forced to resign at the end of that time. His salary for the two years' service was but $400 and he contributed one-fourth of this amount toward the building of the new church. Rev. Henry Requa became pastor in 1849 and remained but one year, being succeeded by Rev. J. S. Prescott, during whose service the church was completed. This build¬ ing was located on Marr and Third streets, and a mission church, known as the Cotton Street church, a sketch of which is given below, was also erected on Arndt street. The Marr street church was dedicated in 1852 by Bishop Ames.

At this time the circuit was divided and Fond du Lac became a separate charge. Rev. Ezra Tucker becoming the first pastor. The congregation grew as the years passed and by 1863 the church became too small to accommodate the people. However, it was not until July 25, 1865, that Spencer Hall, located on Division street, was purchased and dedicated as a church, the building with the site costing $5,000. The old church building was sold to the German Evangelical society. In 1866, Spencer Hall was raised, and a basement built under it. A tower was also added. The building, no x 55 feet, was at that time the largest auditorium in the city, and the total cost, including site and improvements, was $20,000. The dedicatory services were held May 5, 1867, in charge of T. M. Eddy, D. D., of Chicago. From time to time various improvements were made and in 1875 a splendid pipe organ was installed, at a cost of $3,000. This build¬ ing, located on the northwest corner of Division and Marr streets, has continued to serve the society to the present time, 1912, but plans are now under way for the erection of a handsome new structure.

Cotton Street Methodist Episcopal Church

In 1850, there being some funds left after the erection of the church on the corner of Marr and Third streets, and as there were a number of Methodist people living in what was known as Lower Town, a small mission or chapel was erected on Arndt street. This building was later used by the Presbyterians as a mission. The original intention of the Marr street Methodists seems to have been merely to furnish those of their faith living in Lower Town with a place for holding class meetings and Sunday school, rather than for regular services of a permanent organization, as this section of the city was growing very rapidly, owing to the fact that the principal mills and factories were there located. The first step taken toward the erection of this church on Arndt street was at a meet¬ ing of the officers of the Marr street church, held at the residence of J. J. Driggs, July 15, 1850, the meeting being presided over by Rev. J. S. Prescott. This building was completed and dedicated in October, 1852, the service being in charge of Rev. W. G. Miller. About this time the conference was in session in the church on Marr street and Rev. M. Himebaugh was appointed as its first pas¬ tor. In 1853 Rev- Himebaugh was succeeded by Rev. W. Spell, who remained two years, and he in turn was succeeded by Rev. J. C. Robbins in 1855, who remained for a period of two years. In 1857 Rev. T. C. Golden assumed pastoral charge. About this time the city began to grow to the south and this caused a great decrease in the congregation, so that the society was not self supporting and Rev. Golden resigned. The few members who were left then attended ser¬ vices at the church on Marr and Division streets until 1859, when the conference appointed to this charge Rev. H. R. Colman, a brother of Hon. Elihu Colman, a prominent attorney of early times. At the end of one year, however, in i860, the fall of 1866, when, desirous of again having a separate organization the mem¬ bers of the former Arndt street church withdrew and Rev. M. D. Warner was appointed as their pastor. Lender his able administration the number of members was greatly increased and the edifice, no longer large enough to accommodate the people, was sold to the Presbyterians and moved from its former site. The mill men and manufacturers took a very active part in the erection of a new church, which was built on Cotton and Juneau streets, and was dedicated in 1868. It is of red brick, built at a cost of $15,000. A neat parsonage stands on an adjoining lot.

The present membership of the church numbers about 120, while the Sunday school numbers about 125 members. There is also an Epworth League and a Ladies' Aid Society.

The churches in North Fond du Lac and Taycheedah are also connected with this charge and are served by the same pastor. They have only small congrega¬ tions, each numbering only about twenty members. Each church also maintains a Sunday school. The church at Taycheedah is the oldest house of worship in the county now standing.

German Methodist Episcopal Church

This society was organized in 1859 m connection with the English Methodist Episcopal church, at which time it was a part of the Northwest conference, but since 1871 has been identified with the Chicago German conference. Among the first members were Joseph Grebe, Margaretha Goetz, Maria Roehr, Catharine Bucher, Emma Musgat, William Volkland, Frederich Wegel, Friedericka Wegel, Sophia Schmidt, Henriette Hartmann, Maria Schmidt, Friederich Eckel, Elizabeth Reineck, Maria Grandt, Christina Kuebler, Henry Lay.

In connection with this charge there are churches in the towns of Friendship and Eldorado and one in Parsonage City. The church property is valued at $10,000, and the membership numbers 106.

From the time this society has been a separate organization to the present time it has been served by the following pastors : Christian Wenz, 1862-65 ; Henry Wegner, 1865-68; his assistants were Friedrich Gottschalk, 1865-66; Conrad Eberhardt, 1866-67; Charles Thalheim, 1867-68; Charles G. Becker, 1868-69; John Schnell, 1869-70; Peter Schaefer, 1870-74; Ernst G. H. Fitzner, 1874-77; Carl Iwert, 1877-79; William Schmutzler, 1879-81; from that time until 1886 the records do not show who served the church; in that year and until 1888, John Beinert; again from that time until 1891 there is no record of pastors given; H. Karnopp, 1891-93; Benhard Becher, 1893-98; John D. Meyer, 1898-1900; Ferdi¬ nand A. Bose, 1901-02; Emil Klawiter, 1902-04; William F. Beyer, 1904-06; F, W. Kracher, 1906-07; F. G. Rufif, 1907-08; A. H. Kopplin, 1908, and who is the present pastor in 1912. A. Sefifern is the assistant pastor.

Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church

was organized early in the '60s, and in 1867 the members put up a brick edifice for religious purposes, on the corner of River and Eleventh streets. The first pastor was Rev. S. Hutchinson, and the present pastor is James A. Darey.

Peace Evangelical Church

In the German this church is known as the Evangelical Friedens Kirche, to distinguish it from the other and older Evangelical church, at the corner of

Marr and Third streets. It was organized October n, 1869, having for its first members William Luling, Martin Sasse, Philip Broecker, C. A. Fuerstnow, Charles Blankenburg, B. De Sombre, Adolph Soil, Franz Werner, Carl Mueller, C. Reichmann, A. Lange, Nicholas Bast, H. Soli. The first pastor was Rev. C. F. Off, who served the congregation from 1871 till 1876. His successor was Rev. Conradi, whose ministrations were between the periods 1876-1877. Then followed L. H. Buehrig, 1877-1883; F. Fleer, 1883-88; A. Blankenagel, 1888- 1902; H. Gammert, 1902-10; and C. L. Grauer, from 1910 to the present time.

The building is an old one, built in 1870, and stands on Military and Ruggles streets, and at the time of its erection cost $13,000, including the site. It was built by Philip Broecker, who donated most of the brick, of which it was constructed. C. Blankenburg and Martin Sasse were also liberal contributors to the building fund.

Every Saturday the pastor teaches a German school in connection with the church, and also a summer school. Societies affiliated with this organization are the Ladies' Society, Martha Society, Excelsior Society and Y. P. S. Society.

This congregation was organized in the year 1865, as the Salems Church of the Evangelical Association of the City of Fond du Lac, Fond du Lac county and state of Wisconsin. The first resident pastor was the Rev. Gust. Fritsche, who served one year. During this year a church building formerly owned by the Methodist Episcopal church was purchased and the society organized with thirtyseven members. Rev. William Horn, D. D. was appointed by the annual confer¬ ence and served two years until May 1, 1868. The membership had increased to eighty-seven.

pastorate was crowned with the erection and finishing of a substantial new brick church on the site of the old frame church on the corner of Third and Marr streets at a cost of nearly $12,000. The remaining indebtedness was fully paid up dur¬ ing the pastorate of his successor, Rev. C. F. Reichert. In 1907 a steam heating plant was installed in the parsonage and other improvements made.

Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church

This church was organized September 7, 1897, at a preliminary meeting held at the home of one of its charter members. Those interested and taking part in the formation of this society were Christian Haase, Christian Giesler and Carl Dummer. Services were held in private property, which the society had an option to buy. The first services were held at the home of J. Scharf, and shortly after this first meeting the society was organized under the name of Immanuel parish. The charter members were : Christian Haase, Carl Dummer, J. Woschnick, H. Thurwachter, W. Splittstoeser, J. Bastan and Ed Schob. The association was incorporated, October 25, 1897, and George M. Weng acted as supply in the pul¬ pit until Herman Bruckner, the first regular pastor, accepted the appointment and ministered to the spiritual needs of the congregation. Shortly after the organiza¬ tion of the church, ground was purchased for a building site, November 15, 1897, and $2,000 was paid March 8, 1898. That same year the parish purchased the old schoolhouse on Arndt street and the old parish house on Portland street, pay¬ ing for the two properties about $1,300.

In 1898 the church was refurnished throughout, and the interior decorated. On July 24, 1898, the church was rededicated. In December, 1910, Rev. Bruck¬ ner resigned, to accept a call at Alpena, Michigan, and his successor was Rev. Emil Hannemann, who came to the charge and took up his duties in January, 1902. In that year the church was further improved and new pews were added at a cost of $2,100. The church was rededicated in July, 1903, and in that year the present parish house was remodeled. Rev. Hannemann resigned in November, 1903, and was succeeded by Rev. George F. Fritscher, who took charge Decem¬ ber 4th. He remained two years and resigned to accept a call as professor of theology in the seminary at Dubuque, Iowa. Richard H. Bunge came after him and assumed charge of the parish in April, 1906. In the fall of that year regular evangelical services were begun as a monthly proceeding and have followed to the present time, twice a month. Rev. Bunge left July 15, 1912, to accept a call as president of Eureka College, South Dakota, and Rev. George Becker succeeded him in this charge.

The English Lutheran Trinity Church

This church was founded January 8, 1911, and is in reality the English branch of Immanuel church. There are now twenty-six families connected with the organization composed of the younger generation of Germans and some Norwe¬ gians and Swedish people. There is a Sunday school, Lutheran Club, Aid Society and Ladies' Society.

This society was founded practically at the time of the meeting of a number of Germans at the home of a Mr. Waller in Fond du Lac. Among those present at that time may be mentioned Frederick Sander, Frederick Abel, John Jurgens, Max Kuchenthal, Andrew Jurgens, Bernhard De Sombre, Christopher Lutzens,

The first meeting of the society was held August 15 in the Presbyterian church, at which time forty-seven persons were present. In i860 the society bought a piece of ground on the corner of Second and Marr streets, for which they paid $700. That same church building erected that year has been doing duty up to the present time. July 10, 1859, Rev. Fachtmann resigned and was sue- ceeded by Rev. Bohner, who had come from Germany but a short time previously. Fie remained until the beginning of the year 1863, when he was succeeded by the Rev. Kern. In 1863 the parish built a schoolhouse, two stories in height, and later a second parish house was built. In 1883 a new schoolhouse was erected and Ernst Mayerhoff took charge June 5, 1864, and did valiant service until August, 1867, when he went to Ripon. Up to this time the pastors had served as teachers, but by 1865, the number of pupils had grown so great that Gustav Denninger was put in control of the pupils. He took charge in 1866. In that year Miss Magnussen and Miss Emma Jurgens were employed and gave lessons to the children. After Rev. Mayerhoff left, Professor Meumann, of Watertown, took charge of the church as supply but in October, 1868, Rev. William Streissguth came and remained until 1872. In 1869 ground was bought upon which the present church and school now stand. The price paid for the site was $3,700. In February of that year the church edifice was built and partly paid for with the proceedings of the purchase price of the old church on Second and Marr streets, which was sold for $1,100. In May, 1869, the corner stone was laid and the church was dedicated October 24th. The cost of the building was $4,969, and in the fall of the same year a parish house was built at a cost of $1,275. Rev. Streissguth remained until April 7, 1872, when Professor T. Meumann assumed the duties of the pulpit in May following.

In May, 1876, Rev. George Holzer, of Ripon, was called as pastor and took charge in June. He became ill and in September, 1877, his brother, Philip Hol¬ zer, who was pastor at Great Bend, Kansas, was called as assistant, in the hope that Rev. George Holzer would eventually be able to resume his duties, but on the 22d of December, 1877, the latter died and Rev. Philip Holzer became his successor. In May, 1878, a pipe organ was installed at a cost of $1,000. A new parochial schoolhouse was built in the summer of 1881, at a cost of $2,000 and on August 25, 1883, the parish celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary, having present on that occasion Revs. Streissguth and Mayerhoff, former pastors of the church.

March 17, 1901, it was decided to build a new parish house, which was erected at a cost of $3,100, and was occupied in September. In 1902 subscriptions were solicited for a new schoolhouse and the building was completed in 1903. It is a modern structure with four rooms and basement, and a hall capable of seating 500 people. The building cost $13,600. In 1907 the church was remodeled. Ornamental glass windows were put in, a modern steam heating plant and electric lights installed and the interior decorated at a cost of $4,000.

The church numbers 1,145 communicants and the attendance is 1,650. There is a Ladies' Society, Young People's Society, a Mannerchor, mixed choir, St. Peter's church orchestra and the Sick Benefit Aid Society in connection with the church. In connection with St. Peter's church, February 4, 1900, as a number of Lutherans lived in North Fond du Lac, it was decided to buy a piece of property there for church purposes. The so-called land company donated two lots and a third was bought for $50. In March, 1901, the building of a small church was commenced, some money being donated but most of the funds were furnished by members of St. Peter's parish.

The parish of St. Joseph at Fond du Lac was first visited in 1847 by Rev. F. X. Bonduel, one of the earliest missionaries in the state of Wisconsin, who min¬ istered to the spiritual wants of the Catholic settlers here and held services. Many times subsequent to this he came, at one time prolonging his visit long enough to arrange for and superintend the erection of a small chapel upon the site where the present church of St. Joseph stands. The work of Father Bon¬ duel was taken up by his successor, Rev. C. Rehrl, who became the first resident pastor. In 1850 Rev. E. A. Godfert came and remained until July, 1853. He was followed by Rev. L. Dael, who was a very energetic and zealous worker. During his pastorage a new parsonage was erected and the church enlarged. In i860 Father Perrodin assumed charge, during whose pastorate the church was again enlarged. In 1871 Rev. George Willard became pastor and while he was in charge of the congregation, in 1874, the corner stone of the present church edi¬ fice was laid. Rev. Joseph J. Keenan came in 1879 but remained only a short time, when he was succeeded by Rev. Stephen Trant, who remained six years. In 1886 Rev. M. J. Taugher became the pastor, and remained, beloved by all his people, as pastor of this congregation until the year 1911, when he was taken away from his field of usefulness to respond to the call that all flesh must answer. His successor is the Rev. J. J. Collins, who took up his ministrations, August 17, 1911 in a magnificent church edifice, built in 1909. The property of the church, including a new rectory, is probably worth all of $125,000.

St. Louis Church

This society was organized in 1862. Prior to this the Catholic settlers had all worshipped in St. Joseph's church. The first priests here were Fathers Bonduel and Godfert. Then came J. C. Perrodin, L. Dael and Rev. E. Mazeau, who was succeeded by Rev. O. Comtois, who in turn was succeeded by Rev. Charles Boucher.

In 1868 Father Perrodin commenced the erection of St. Louis church, and though the structure was not yet completed, the first service was held on Christ¬ mas day of 1870. Father Perrodin continued with this charge until his death, June 7, 1873. Rev. E. Mazeau remained less than two years and was then suc¬ ceeded by Rev. Louis Dael, whose death occurred in 1879. Rev. O. Comtois remained one year, while Father Boucher took charge September 18, 1880, and remained the beloved pastor of his people for twenty-five years, when he sub¬ mitted to the last call of the Master, and is now in the home of the blessed. Under his administration the church was completed and the steeples were built. There were at the time in the membership of the church three hundred families and one hundred and twenty-five children in the Sabbath school. Rev. Joseph Hudon suc¬ ceeded Father Boucher and remained from 1904 until 1910, when Rev. Father J. B. Piette was placed in charge of the parish and has brought it up to a very high state of prosperity.

St. Patrick's congregation was organized in 1855, and is really an outgrowth of the St. Louis congregation. This society was organized by Father Louis Dael, who was at that time pastor of St. Louis, which is the mother of Catholic organi¬ zations in the city of Fond du Lac. The first resident pastor of St. Patrick's was Rev. James Colton. In 1881 Rev. Colton was succeeded by Rev. J. J. Keenan, who administered to the people of his charge with fatherly love and priestly bene¬ faction until he was called to the Beyond on the 12th of April, 1911. His suc¬ cessor is the present pastor, Thomas J. Cosgrove, whose duties involve the spir¬ itual care of two hundred families. There is a stately church edifice and on the same lot stands a comfortable rectory.

St. Mary's society was organized December 8, 1886, being first administered to by Rev. Eusebius Hensler. His successor was Rev. Nicholas Pickel, who erected a parsonage and also enlarged the church. Following Father Pickel the Capuchin Fathers were in charge of the church for some time, but were succeeded by Rev. Sebastian Schwinn, who in turn was succeeded by Rev. Joseph Fessler, during whose administration a commodious brick schoolhouse was erected. Those who have since served the church are Revs. Philip V ogt, Louis Peschong. The present pastor is Rev. Gottfried Wuelffmg, who has been with this charge a num¬ ber of years. In 1901, a magnificent new stone church edifice was built and a few years later a rectory was attached and made a part of the building.