Monroe County, Wisconsin - Chapter 53: German Evangelical Lutheran Churches by Rev. Otto Engel, 1912

St. John'S, Town Of Ridgeville

The earliest settlers of this portion of Monroe county, formerly called "Dividing- Ridge," were Lutheran peasants from Jefferson county. In 1855 Gottlieb Gnewikow, William Albrecht, Ferdinand Vincenz, Carl Fuerbringer and Henry Vieth appeared on the ground. Daniel Zellmer, Gottfried Kewitt, ]Michael Zielke, Daniel Raedel and Louis IMatthes followed during the subsequent year. But it was not until the arrival of Mr. AVilliani Waegner in September, 1860, that efforts were made to gather the scattered Lutherans into a congregation. AVith indomitable energy he canvassed the neighboring country and called a meeting for the tenth of IMarch, 1862. Fifteen persons heeded the call. Regular services were now conducted under the leadership of Mr. Waegner, who read from Hof acker's sermon book. April 1, 1862, a permanent organization was established. A congregational con-, stitution was at once adopted for the government of the infant society, which was subscribed by twenty-five men, heads of families, as uniting in the organization of this church. Their names were AYilliam Waegner, Christian Richert, Frederic Gnewikow, Daniel Zellmer, Christoph Eckelberg, John Bartels, Daniel Raedel, Meinhardt Gnewikow, Ludwig Kuthlow, Christoph Hoffman, Christian Libke, William Albrecht. August Koellner, Gottfried Kewitt, Frederic Eckelberg, Christian Helmke, ' Asmus Holz, David Kortbein, Christian JMueller. Carl Mueller, Joachim ]\Ietelmann, John Schultz, Gottlieb Kuehl, Herman Horstmann, Christian Marten. The following were chosen as the first officers: AVilliam AVaegner, Frederic Gnewikow, Christian Richert, John Bartels and Daniel Zellmer. At the same tiiiic the congregation was incorporated under the incorporate title, "The Evangelical Lutheran St. John's Church." After due deliberation a communication was sent to Senior J. Muehlhaeuser, founder and first president of the Wisconsin Synod, applying for a pastor. As a consequence, Rev. ^Michael Ewert, the nearest Lutheran i)astor, having his home at Burr Oak. was instructed to provide this faithful band with the means of grace. lie was received with great joy when he preaclieil the first Lutheran sermon in ]\Ionroe county on the fifteenth of ]\Iay. ]8()2, at the district school house No. 1, in the present town of Ridgevillc He promised to preach at least once in eight weeks, receiving for every round trip of sixty miles .^8.00 in casli. The Lord's Su])p('i- was administered for the first time on the eighteenth of May to thirty-four communicants. During his time a suitable place of worsliip was erected, a log iiouse, 20 l)y 'A2 feet. In -Tune, ]8fi2, after the congregation had previously been admitted to the Wisconsin Synod, the new church was dedicated with solenni ceremony, tlie Jxrv. F. AV. Hass from ]\Iormon ("ooley assisting.

Rev. ^Michael Kwert, the first minister who preached tlie word to the oldest Lutheran settlement in .Monroe county, was born at Radschief, Province of Posen, Germany, February 18, 1812. After receiving his preliminary education in the parochial schools of his native village, he entered the Teachers' Institute at Brond)erg. In 1856 he crossed the ocean and came to AVisconsin. wliere he was called upon to preach to the pastorless peo])le of Golden Lake. AVaukesha county, connecting himself with the Frankeau Synod. By reconnnendation of Pastor Muehlhaeuser, he was ordained for the gospel ministry in October, 1861, therewith becoming a member of the "Wisconsin Synod. In the same year he accepted a vocation to the "jMemminger ("hurch" at Burr Oak, resigning his pastorate at Cedar Creek and Richfield, "Waukesha county, shortly after Christmas. He died January 10, 1888, and is buried in tl'tc cemetery at Ox Boav, Jackson county.

Througli the instrumentality of Dr. Ed. Aloldehnke. wlu) had previously, in June, 1863, preached at Ridgeville while on his missionary expeditions, the Rev. John A. lloyer Avas connnissioned to become the first resident Lutheran nunister in ]\Iouroe county. He arrived August 25, 1865, and delivered his first sermon on the following Sniiday. His ordination was performed by "W. Dammann, of Milwaukee, on llu^ nineteenth Sunday after Trinity. A parsonage was built for liim in tlie spring of the following year. Rev. Hoyer labored with great zenl. ]u-eaching not only at Ridgeville, but also at Clifton, where he had organized a congregation during the first year of liis ministry, until he received and accepted a call to Eldorado, AVi.-; . October 27, 1867.

moiisly called from Portland, Houston county, jMinnesota, where he had rendered service to a number of German Lutheran congregations. He founded a church at South Ridge and erected a house of worship at Clifton, whereupon he departed from Ridgeville April 9, 1871, in order to return to the fatherland, accepting a position as teacher in a gymnasium.

April 10, 1871, the Rev. Albert F. Siegler, a native of Wollin, Pomerania, Germany, and first student under Dr. Moldehnke in the College at AVatertown, AA^is., was invited to take charge of the church. He accepted the invitation, and entered upon his work April 26, 1871, preaching his first sermon from the Gospel of the Good Shepherd. His installation followed on Pentecost Monday, May 29, Rev. C. G. Reim, La Crosse, AVis., officiating. During his pastorate the congregation grew too large to be accommodated in the old log church, and consequently it was decided to erect the second house of w^orship, a frame building, 54 by 32, spire 75 feet, with altar niche and sancristy, at a cost of $3,000. Mr. H. L. Scherr and E. Brauer were the contractors. In February, 1874, the completed building was set apart to the worship of God, the pastor loci conducting the official ceremony. A church strife, into which the congregation was precipitated by the Reformed members, while the building was in progress, ended in the withdrawal of thirteen families and the formation of Salem's Church, October 17, 1873, which became extinct in 1890. Rev. Siegler 's career of this and fourteen other congregations and preaching places came to a close when he was called to Ixonia, AVis., July 17, 1877.

July 24, 1877, the Rev. Erdman A. Pankow, whose father immigrated to Lebanon, Dodge county, with the so-called old Lutherans of Pomerania and Brandenburg in 1843, was called to the pastorate. He accepted and commenced his labors October 14, being installed by Rev. C. G. Reim of La Crosse, AVis. This reverend gentleman held the office of pastor of St. John's at Ridgeville. St. Paul's at Tomah and St. Jacob's at Norwalk four years, when he was obliged to give notice to this congregation that on account of ill health he would have to sever his connection with this pastorate September 18, 1881.

AVhen Rev. Pankow removed to St. Louis, IMo., the services of Pastor Andrew Schroedel was procured September 18, 1881. After due deliberation he commenced his labors in December, when he was formally installed by Rev. J. Badke of Dorset Ridge. Shortly after his arrival the first bells were hung in the steeple. The first mission festival was celebrated September 20, 1885. At a eoiigregatioiial meeting held June 2, 1889, it was resolved to ereet a new i)arsonage on a recently purchased lot, whereupon AVilliani Zelhner, P'red Gnewikow and Henry Schlinz were appointed a building committee to carry out the design of the congregation. Accordingly, November 25, 1889, a contract was entered into with Charles Prehn of Portage, AVis., for the erection of a frame building, for the sum of $1,050. But before the completion of the parsonage, October 28, the Rev. Schroedel asked for an honorary dismissal, having received a call to AVatertown as i)rofessor. This was granted November 25, 1889.

December 29, 1889, the Rev. Christian F. C. Koehler from East Farnungton, Polk county, AYisconsin, was chosen to fill the pulpit. He entered upon the duties of his office on the twentj^-second of February, 1890, being installed by Professor Schroedel. Upon his instigation a special meeting was called on March 7, 1892, for the purpose of devising plans for a new school house, 22 by 36. On March 13 the congregation took title to a plot of ground comprising two acres, purchasing the same from ^Martin Achtenberg, for a consideration of $275. AYilliam ]\Iatthes was given the contract and finished the work in November. Rev. Koehler 's ministry lasted until June 4, 1899. when he was compelled to resign, being stricken with a hemorrhage. He removed to AYhite Bear. Minn., and soon after died, October 11, 1900.

Rev. George AVashington Albrecht was tl'c next pastor. He entered upon his clerical duties July 26, 1899, and was introduced to his congregation the following Sunday l)y Prof. Jul. Gamm. The membership soon became too great to accommodate the crowds. A larger ])uilding became imperative. It was, therefore, decided to erect a brick structure, 45 by 65, siltar niche 16 by 20. tower 110 feet high. Plans sketched by Schick and Harrison of LaCrosse, AYis., were ai)prov(Ml. and the contract let to Ernest Daherr. of Tomah. AYis., .May 14. 1900. tlie excavation Avas begun willi. The cornel' stone was laid with ini]^ressive services on hte twenty-second of July, the Rev. Pi-of. A. F. Ernest of AYatertown, AYis., preaching frdiii Romans 8:31-32 and 1 Corinthians 3:11-12. The new church was formally dedicated to Almighty God on January 20, 1901. 1lie Rev. Phil von Rohr, jiresident of synod; Rev. J. Gamm, iirofessor at Watertown. AYis., and Rev. A. F. Siegler. ])astor at AVauwatosa. AYis., conducting the services of consecration. The Rev. Albrecht continued in faithful service in tlie congregation until December 1, 1907, when he received permission to move to Osceola, AVis. He died May 14. 1910.

Evangelical Lutiiekan Churches 547

iiiiliapi)y i)astorate of two years began, lie eanie to this charge from the Deerfield and Newville congregations, near Waterloo, Wis., where he had labored since 1904. His resignation was accepted March 7, 1910, whereupon he removed to Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada.

The present incumbent is the Rev. August C. Stock, wdio has labored with diligence and acceptability since June 19, 1910. During his nunistry a pipe organ was purchased for $2,000. The golden jubilee of the congregation was celebrated June 2, 1912, the Revs. E. A. Pankow, A. F. Siegier, 0. Kulow and Prof. J. Schaller delivering sermons. Extensive rebuilding and beautifying of the parsonage have taken place lately at a cost of about $1,600.

The membership of the church is represented by one hundred and thirty-six families. The present officers are Fred Gnewikow, president ; William Lange, secretary ; Aug. Kewitt, treasurer - William Sommerfeld, F. Fuchs, Aug. IMartin, elders. The property owned by the congregation is estimated at $20,000. In connection with the church is a congregational school with about forty-five in attendance. A Ladies' Aid Society is in flourishing condition. A very able church choir is under the direction of the present pastor. The "Gemeinde-Blatt" is read by thirty-two members. Rev. Leo Kirst and Rev. Arnold Schulz have entered the gospel ministry from this congregation.

St. Paul'S Church Of Tomah

As near as can be ascertained at present writing, the first regular sermon was preached in Tomah by the Rev. A. F. Siegier, the resident Lutheran minister of St. John's Church of the towai of Ridgeville, Monroe county, Wisconsin, oji Monday follow^ing Easter Sunday, in the year 1872. The services were held in the home of William Fieting. Christians of Lutheran faith residing in Tomah and vicinity had prior to the date given occasionally assembled in private homes, having one from their midst to read a sermon. As shown by the early records, once before the mentioned date the Rev. Ebert of Ridgeville delivered a sermon in Tomah at a special occasion. Regular services were inaugurated by the said Rev. A. F. Siegier in 1872. Services were held every four weeks in the private homes of Lutherans in Tomah. In those days the homes of the people were mostly small. Much inconvenience w^as soon experienced to accommodate the worshippers.

So the thought to provide for a more siiital)k' jilaee to assemble, if such eoukl be had, became dominant. In the fall of 1873 an agreement was made by the Jaitherans of Tomah with the Congregational Church Society of said village by which the Lutherans should have the use of their church every fonrtli Sunday in the afternoon. ^Misunderstandings over prosperity urgently demanded to organize as a church body and seek an own churcli home at an early date. At a congregational meeting July 26, 3874. articles of incorporation were drafted, agreed to and tli" same received and fih'd liy the register at the court house in Si)arta on August 18, 1874. The society is known under the incorporate name, German Evangelical Lutheran, St. Paul's Church of Tomah, AVis. The constitution of the society sets forth that the Holy Scriptures shall be source, norm and rule of doctrine and Christian life, that the Book of Concord, the volume containing the General and the Lutheran confessions of faith, shall be the true manifestation of faith as the same is propagated by this chin-ch. Aside from the doctrine question, the object of organizing, the aims, the Avork of the organization, the requisites of membership, etc., are defined. The names of the charter members, seventeen in number, may find place in the history of the church, to wit: E. Daher, "William Fieting, Aug. Scholz, Carl Kuppcr. Louis Schnlz, Fred Helmke, L. Frieske, Fr. Maas, Dav. Martin, Ad. Koehn, Fred Schmidt, Fr. Duwe, Fr. Lueck, Alb. Bongers. Jul. Lueck, Ferd. Krueger and Rud. Roscovius. The statistics on the day of organization give seventeen voting members, fortyfour communicant members, ninety-three souls.

Lnmediately after organizing Karl Grutke was taken in as voting member, making eighteen in all, and the first board of trustees was elected, a l)ody of three in the early days of the church, which has been changed later to six. The first board of trustees were Karl Grutke, David ^Martin and Lud. Frieske. The financial powers of the members of St. Paul's Church was very limited in the early days of its existence, but the trust in God gave the small congregation courage to vote to purchase suitable ground for a church building. Two lots on North Superior avenue, 50 by 150 each, Avere purchased. Consideration, $180.00. At a meeting September 26, 1875, the congregation decided to erect a church edifice on their lots. Tlic building 1o be 24 x 36 x 12, of frame construction. The construction work was at once taken up and the first church building of the congregation Avas soon completed. On December 26, 1875, the new church Avas dedicated. The entire cost of same Avas $600. The building is to this day

St. Paul's Lutheran congregation of Tomali has always known the duty of Christian congregations toward the rising generations in their midst and has made provisions for Christian training of the children of its members, as circumstances demanded. In the early days of the congregation, when the members were few and poor at that, they could not see their way clear to provide a regular day school, so they did the next best thing, giving the children a Sunday school. But a Sunday school could not suffice, where the young should learn to know the Savior well and where god-fearing men and women should be trained, who could serve God, country and fellowman aright. So the congregation decided at a meeting December 26, 1877. to furnish a winter term of four months' daily schooling to the children of the church members. Mr. E. Daher was engaged to teach the four months' term of 1877-1878. Re-engaged the succeeding terms to 1881. October 9, 1881, the congregation voted to call its first regular teacher and organize a full day school of nine and one-half to ten months a year. Mr. Kahlfass was called at the meeting above stated. He accepted the call and taught for one and one-half years. A school board was elected February 5, 1882, by the congregation. The members of the first school board were William Fieting, Ernst Daher and Fr. Helmke.

The parochial school had come to stay. The first teacher, on his resignation, was succeeded by Messrs. Jul. Bittner and Ad. Stolz. Thus the things were done by the congregation to rear the young in the admonition unto the Lord, as circumstances and ability of th(^ church of Tomah could possibly afford.

One live question of the congregation yet was unsolved, the provision of an own resident minister. True, the pastor of St. John's Church of Ridgeville, the Rev. A. F. Siegler, and his successors, the Revs. E. Pankow and A. Schroed<^I, did all their time and ability permitted to provide for the spiritual wants of the Tomah Lutheran Church. The growing congregation in Tomah demanded its own resident minister..

At the congregational meeting April 6, 1884, it was voted to call a minister. Mr. John Jenny was elected to fill the pulpit of St. Paul in Tomah. Mr. Jenny, at present pastor of St. James* Lutheran Church of Milwaukee, is a graduate of Northwestern College of Watertown, Wis., graduating from the Lutheran Seminary of ]\Iilwaukee in June, 1884. The Rev. Jenny accepted thf

The congregation now had its own resident minister. The next step to be taken was to provide a parsonage for the congregation. After considering several locations for same it was decided, January liO, 1886, to accept an otter of the lot, 50x150, adjoining the cinircli projx'rty on the south. Avith a small cottage thereon, consideration being $900. Tlic Rev. Jenny had taken unto himself the ministerial work as well as the school work, the congregation l)eing too weak then to support a minister and a teacher. But soon the Lutheran congregation of Sparta petitioned the Tomah congregation to i)ermit tlieir pastor to till tiic pulpit of theii- small church also. The petition was granted December 26, 1887, and the Rev. J. Jenny became pastor of the circuit - Tomah, Sparta and town of Lincoln,, Zeeda and (Joodyear. The ministerial Avork thus plentiful left no. or not sufficient. time to the minister to properly care for the school. So a parochial teacher was again called by the congregation. ]\Ir. Phil Gruetzmacher took charge.

The congregation had grown to number fifty-nine voting members January 1, 1889. A larger church edifice became a pressing need. At a meeting August 25, 1889, the congregation voted to build a neAv church, which church building, by a decision arrived at in special meeting December 1, 1889, should atford a seating capacity of 350 and be of frame with brick veneer construction. The contract of erection was awarded to E. A. Daher of Tomah for $3,585 on February 15, 1890. On June 8, the basement complete, the corner stone was laid. Prof. E. Xotz of the Lutheran Seminary of IMilwaukee assisting the pastor in the act, preached the sermon. On the twelfth day of Octol)er. 1890, the church Avas dedicated. The Revs. IL Vogel, F. Stromer and C. Gansewitz doing service to an elated congregation by speaking Avords to the honor of God, Avho had made Avilling liearts and open hands to erect a structure of the kind. The ])astor read the dedicatory praj^er. The dimensions of the church edifice, stately Ihon. Avere 38x56xl(i. Avith toAver 104 feet and altar niche and sancristy. The total costs Avere $4,493.92.

At a special meeting September 19. 1892, the pastor AA'as given an honorable dismissal from his duties in order to accept a call to Dnluth, ]\liun.

Evangelical Lutheran Churches 551 Pastorate Of The Rev. G. E. Bergemann, November

Rev. G. E. Bergemami, of Bay City, Midi., was called to fill the pulpit of St. Paul's Lutheran church, of Tomah, vacated by Rev. J. Jenny. Rev. Bergemann accepted the call and took charge of his work in Tomah November 1, 1892. The Rev. Bergemann is at present pastor of St. Peter's Lutheran church, of Fond du Lac, AVis. He holds the office of president of the Evangelical Lutheran synods of AVisconsin. A. 0. States is exofficio member of various boards of said synod. The Rev. Bergemann is a graduate of Northwestern college, of Watertown, '85, graduating from Lutheran seminary in June, 1887.

In the parochial school of Tomah congregation Mr. Gruetzmacher having resigned as teacher ]\Ir. Brann succeeded him in November, 1892. Mr. Otto Borchert took charge of the school in the spring of '9.3, resigning his position in January, 1899. Mr. Chas. F. Brenner was given the school the same year.

In 1896 the parsonage was altered - -enlarged at an expense of $700.00. During Rev. Bergemann 's pastorate the church's indebtedness was reduced to -$500.00. In the year 1899 the congregation celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary of its existence, commemorating the day by placing a ncAv pipe organ in their church at a cost of $785.00. August 20 was the day designated to mark the twenty-fifth mile-stone. Services were held in the forenoon, afternoon and evening, the speakers being the Revs. J. Jenny and G. E. Bergemann. Church census figures on the day were given out, 126 voting members, 437 communicant members - 682 souls. The Rev. G. E. Bergemann soon thereafter accepted a call to St. Peter's Lutheran church, of Fond du Lac, leaving his Tomah charge the first days in December, 1899.

The Rev. J. G. Glaeser, of Naugart, Marathon county, Wisconsin, was called as pastor by St. Paul's Lutheran church, of Tomah, to succeed the Rev. G. E. Bergemann. Rev. Glaeser, a graduate of the Lutheran seminary in December, 1887, ordained a minister of the gospel in town of Paris, Kenosha county, Wisconsin, December 26, 1887, accepted the call tendered, arriving in Tomah, January 11, 1900, taking charge of the work of his ncAV field at once. The congregation had A'oted December 31, 1899, to wipe out the entire indebtedness of the society the coming year. It was accomplished. In the general meeting of December 27, 1900, the congregation decided to purchase a peal of tAvo bells from ]\Ienerly Bell Foundry for $740.00. The money was raised within ten days by subscription ])y the meml)ers. The location of the school house along side the alley back of the church was unsatisfactory from every point of A'iew. So the congregation elected a committee lo find a suitable location for their school. Of the several locations offered the congregation decided to purchase the lot, 50x150, north of ihe church property, owned by Mrs. A. i'techl, for !l>l,500.00. The dwelling on same was sold by the church for .^500.00. It was planned to move the school building on the lot, to add a new part, 12x26, same height and form of architecture to building, and put a high basement under entire building (26x52) for class room purposes. The plan was realized and improvements made as planned, costing closely to $8,000.00, of which sum one-half was paid at once, the balance the year following. The teacher resigned in June, li)02. The school year 1902-1903 was filled by Theo. Kadert, a student of New Ulm Seminary for Teachers. In September, 1903. Teacher Emil Reim took charge of the congregation's parochial school. The school had by a vote of the members taken July 12, 1903, been made an institution of two class rooms. Mr. Reim was chosen as principal and teacher of the I room, and ]Miss Ella Birr taught the lower grades from 1903-1906, ]\[iss Anna AVolflP, 1906-1911. In September, 3911, iMiss Frances Glaeser took charge of room II of the school. ]\Ir. Alex. Jaeger succeeded ]Mr. Reim, who A^acated liis position in June, 1908, accepting a call as principal to Tlustisford. Wis. On January 1, 1912, the school register showed ninety-three scholars; fifty-one were in the first room, with Alex. Jaeger as teacher; fni't>'-two in the lower grades, wilh Frances Glaeser as teachei-.

The church membership had grown so that the l)uikling could no longer house the congregation. The question : What can be done to furnish more room for assemblies on the days of public worship? became i)ressing. It was decided to have the architect firm of Schick & Roth look into the cost of remodeling and enlarging the church edifice if possible. ^Ir. Scliidv. looking over the groui;d, liuilding, and inquiring how the congregation thought to ace()mi)lish an enlargement of their church, gave as his o])inion that an addition suitably large conld well be built. Sketches were drawn by tlie architects setting fortli the inner and outward appearance of the remodeled building. August 16, 1908, it was voted I)y the congregation to call upon Schick &

Roth, architects, to draw plans and specifications as sketches liad shown. The plans drawn called for an addition 36x50, with sacristy and altar-niche of solid brick construction. The basement under addition to afford room for an assembly hall, furnace room and spacious closets. The old part to receive elevation of ceiling, new plaster and stucco work, etc. January 26, 1909, the bids for material and work of erection were opened and awarded to Mr. Peter Nelson, contractor and builder, of LaCrosse. The bid was $8,575.00. With the opening of spring work was commenced, and no accident or misunderstanding of the parties concerned marring the progress of work, the building was completed October 10, 1909. On that day the church was dedicated in proper manner. The former pastors, J. Jenny and G. E. Bergemann, were come to rejoice in the Lord with the congregation and preach the Word. The two young ]nen in the ministry of the Lutheran church gone forth from the Tomah congregation, the Revs. Arnold Scliulz and Leo Kirst, Avere present and spoke the Word of Truth to their home church members. The cost of the addition, remodelling of old pait, new furniture, electric fixtures and heating plant amounted to $14,000.00, of which sum $11,000.00 was paid in by the members and friends on completion of improvements stated. In February. 1909, the congregation purchased the lot north of their property of Mrs. Crabb for $1,800.00. The same year, 1909, the city of Tomah put in brick pavement on Superior avenue, causing St. Paul's Lutheran congregation an expense of $700.00 as its part of payment.

The church's property, located on Superior avenue, the beauty street of the city of Tomah, comprises five lots, each 50x150, a half block excepting the southeast corner lot. On the lots are to be found a two-room school house, the spacious church edifice having a seating capacity of 650, and a good-sized parsonage. January 1, 1912, the following figure-J were given: 196 voting members, 623 communicant members, 1,035 souls.

St. John'S, Sparta

About thirty-seven years ago a few German Lutherans drove to the town of Ridgeville for the purpose of listening to a Lutheran sermon and partaking of the Lord's Supper according to the institution of the Lutheran church. The pastor at Ridgeville w^as at that time the Rev. A. F. Siegler. He kindly invited them to his house and inquired about the religious outlook in Sparta. He subsequently came to Sparta at liis earliest convenience, collected the scattered Lutherans, ijreadicd to thcin. and administered the sacraments. Divine services were lu'ld in ])rivatc houses at irregular intervals for nuuiy years, until the Kcv. Siegler asked the Sparta Lutherans to look for the service of some other pastor who could SU])pl\' 1 ln'iii ol'tciici-.

The iK'xl iniuister who was calh'd upon to ])r('ach the Lord Jesus ('hrist and administfi- the sacraments was Rev. Henry ('. Daget'oerde, the tirst laljorer commissioned to Amci-ica by Pastor Ludwig Harms, founder and soul of the Hei'mannsl)urg Foreign ^Missionary Society. He was stationed at Barre .Mills. LaC'rosse county, and pleached the gospel to this people until he accepted a pastorate in Jiloomtield, Wis., in the fall of 1877.

After the resignation of Rev. Dagefoerde the Rev. Louis E. Junker, pastor of ("hrist Lutheran church, ut J^nrr ()al<. i)romised to preach tlic word every third Sunday. During his circiunspective i)astorship, in 1S80, Sparta Lutherans organized themselves into a congregation, calling themselves ''St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church." The following persons constituted the organization : August Schlaver. Sr., August Niemasch, Peter Boelke, ^lichael Lueck. Julius Dellmann, Godfrey Gantke, Julius jNleseur, August Jaiinke, Julius Pollack. Of these Peter Boelke, ^Michael Lueck, Julius Pollock and August Jahnke are still members of tlu^ church. Immediately after the organization steps were taken to erect a house of worshi]) on a ]»ai'ccl of land located on ]\Iain street. This frame building served the congregation foi' twenty-two years until it was supplanted by a more substantial sti-ucture.

After the removal of Rev. Junker the cJuirge was entrusted to the care of Rev. Phillip Sprengling, a graduate from the Theological seminary in ^lilwaukee. lie Avas ordained for the ministry in May, 18S2. at Burr Oak, the Rev. 1'. Lange officiating. After five years of untiring and conscientious discharge of duty he was called to llika. town of Centerville, Manitowoc county, where he is still laboring with nmrked success.

AVhen this chai'ge Avas vacated l)y the resignation of Rev. Sprengling the Lutherans of Sparta thought it more expedient to iniite witli the congregation at Tomah. In 1887 the Rev. John fJenny, Avhosc i)arents Avere nuMubers of the Swiss colony coming to Xcw (ilai'us. Ci-een couTity. "Wisconsin, in 1845, entered the field.

foremost instructor of dogmatics in America. He severed his connection with this congregation when he accepted a more prominent pastorate at Fond du Lac, AVis., serving the Wisconsin synod as vice-president since 1907 and as president since I'JUU.

The subsequent herald of the cross was Rev. John G. Glaeser, visitor of the Southwestern district of the Mississi[)pi conference. He came from St. Paul's church in the town of Berlin, Marathon county, and was installed at Tomah on January 11, 1900.

At the suggestion of Rev. Glaeser Mr. H. W. Schmeling was called to be pastor of the German Lutheran tlock at Sparta. Ho was ordained to the office of the ministry July 7. 1901. The necessity for a more spacious place of worship soon became more and more apparent. In January, 1902, active measures were taken for a new church edifice. A lot was procured on Jeff^erson avenue and L street. 3Ir. Parkimon furnished plans and specifications. The contract was let to Ernest Schmalz and Gustav Friske. Work on the projected church, 84x40x20, spire 109 feet, was commenced early in spring and the corner stone was laid with becoming ceremonies I\lay 4, 1902. On this occasion a sermon was preached by Rev. Rich. Siegler, of Barre Mills. No-' vember 9, 1902. dedication was held. Rev. G. E. Bergemann. Fond du Lac, AVis., proclaimed the gospel in the forenoon. Rev. J. G. Glaeser, Tomah, AVis., conducted the afternoon's service, and Rev. J. Jenny, Alilwaukee, AVis., delivered an English address in the evening. In 1905 the congregation celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary of its organization by arranging special services for the 3rd of September, the Revs. F. A. Siegler and P. Sehroeder officiating. A bell weighing 1,302 pounds was bought from the famous jNIeneely Company. Troy, N. Y., and installed on the same occasion. A commodious and convenient parsonage was purchased in 1907. Following the custom of the Lutheran church, a parochial school was established in 1903, the pastor, Rev. Schmeling, conducting the same for five years. In 1908 Aliss Edith Steinke was employed. IMiss Ella Lorenz will take her place in September, 1912. The average attendance has been from forty to fifty pupils.

The present congregation consists of 94 families, 350 communicants, and 490 souls. The present officers of the church are : Pastor, Rev. H. AA". Schmeling; president. Alichael Lueck ; secretary. Henry Hoppmann ; treasurer, Hugo Protz ; school director, Louis Luebcke; teacher. Ella Lorenz; organist, Amelia Jalinke.

St. Jacob S, Norwalk

St. Jacob's is an outgrowth of St. John's, at KidgeviHc, the mother church of eight congregations in ^tonroe county. In 1875 some of its members living in the vcinity of Xorwalk were inclined to tiiink that the time had ai)proached to hold services in a somewhat closer proximity to their homes. Accordingly ihey asked the Rev. A. F. Siegler, pastor at Ridgeville since 1871, to hold religious services in the village of Xorwalk. Soon afterwards Rev. Siegler came here and began to labor with intentions to establish a preaching post. The first meetings were conducted in the old school house and at Roof's hall. Rev. Siegler remained with this society two years.

He was succeeded on his departure by the Rev. Erdman A. PankoAV, at one time professor of ancient languages in Concordia college, Concordia, ^lo. During his time the congregation Avorshiped fortnightly in a wagon shop. Septendjer 18, 1881, the Rev. Pankow, by reason of continued ill health, Avas compelled to tender his resignation, much to the regret of his ])arishioners.

The third incuml)ent was the Rev. Andrew Scliroedel. late president of the Minnesota synod, who was called innnediately after his predecessor's resignation, assuming his position in December, 1881. ITnder his skillful guidance. January 30, 1882. the permanent organization of the society was effected with nine members. The names of those who participated Avere : Jacol) Schuele, Gustav Prechcl. AVilliam Schedler. Clii-istian Drawer. Julius ]\Iittelstaedt, John Arndt. AVilliam Schulz. J. (iurske. At the same time they Avere incorporated under the prevailing bnvs of the state, naming themselves "Evangelical Lutheran St. Jacob's Church."' The first trustees Avere : President, AVilliam Schedler; secretary, Gottlieb Jahnke; treasurer, Jacob Schuele. A congregational constitution Avas ado])ted and signed by tlie A'oting members. Febniai'v 12, 1881. the lii'st cliun-h house. 2-4x36, for Avliidi ])i'o\isioiis had bi-en made during Rev. PankoAv's term, Avas completed and litly dedicated, the loi-al ])astor performing the dedieatoi-y act. and the Rev. J. Badke. from Dorset Ridiie. assisting. Tlie Luthei-ans of X'orAvalk may. therefore, .justly asci-il)e to themselves the honor of erecting the first house of Avorship in tlie village. Rev. Scliroedel supplied this church until October, 1880, Avhen he accepted a ]irofessorship in the XorthAvestern T"^niversitA', WatertOAvn, AYis.

Evangelical Lltiiehax Churches 557

The next pastor, serving witli great earnestness from 1890- 1899, was the Kev. Christian F. C. Koehler, who previously had been serving congregations at East Farmington and Osceola, AVis. The first confirmation took place during his ministry on April 5, 1891. In June, 1891, this congregation Avas received as an integral part of the Wisconsin synod, the only German Lutheran church body represented in Monroe county. Mr. John Koeninger was the first delegate to synod convened at St. John's Lutheran church, ]\Llwaukee. June 18-25, 1891. A Sunday school was established and placed under the management of INIr. Jacob Schuele and Mrs. J. Koeninger. The Rev. Koehler continued to perform his duty in the midst of this congregation until he Avas forced to resign on account of a severe abdominal disease. He occupied the pulpit for the last time at Burr Oak, on tli(> occasion of a mission festival, his death taking place four days later, October 11, 1900, at the parsonage of Rev. Phil von Rohr, AVinona, Minn.

After Prof. John P. Koehler, instructor of church history and new testament exegesis in the theological seminary of the p]vangelical Lutheran AVisconsin Synod in Milwaukee, had acted as supply for nearly a whole year, the Rev. George AVashington Albrecht was appointed to the charge, his installation occurring on the 30th of July, 1891. He officiated in that capacity until it was decided by the congregation to become an independent charge, October 21, 1906.

December 8, 1906, Pastor E. IMayerhoff, who resides at AA^oncAvoc, AVis., since his retirement from active Avork on account of infirmities of age, Avas called as vicar. He labored AA'ith this people until the Rca'. Otto Engel, the present incumbent, Avas extended a call.

The Rev. Engel, a graduate of Concordia college and the seminary in Mihvaukee, accepted the call after mature deliberation, and Avas ordained to the office of the ministry by Rca'. Mayerhoff, August 18, 1907, thus becoming the first resident minister of any denomination at NorAvalk. Shortly after his arrival an excellent parsonage Avas erected at a cost of about $2,000. A full parochial school Avas opened in the fall of the same year, the pastor acting as teacher four years. The congregation ha\dng groAvn in the meantime, in the fall of 1909 it Avas decided to build a ncAv house of Avorship. The l)uilding committee consisted of Eduard Bergmann, Robert GracAvin and Rudolf Martin. Plans and specifications Avere furnished by Schick & Roth, LaCrosse architects. The contract Avas let to J. A. Heilmann on the 15th of February, 11)10, for ^(),280. Five thousand and twenty-six dollars were raised by the pastor to carry on the woik. Tlic corner stone was laid ]\lay 29, 1910. The services were participated in by Rev. J. G. Glaeser, Toniali, Wis., and Rev. C. AV. Siegler, Hanj?or, AVis. The new church was completed in October. It is a hue brick structure, ."UxliO, beautiful and churchly in all ap- ])ointnu^nts, calculated to comfortably seat 2.10 ])crsons. The (b'dication services were held OcIoIxt 2:5, Prof. -J. P. Koehler, ^Milwaukee. Wis.; Rev. K. A. Paukow, Caledonia. .Alinn.. and Rev. A. (". Stock. Ridgevillc. Wis., preaching- dedicatory sermons. In the construction of the new chui'ch an expenditure of about j)^10,000 was made. The motto had been: Evei-vthing new for the new church.

The congregation is composed of forty-fiv(> voting and eleven contributing niembers. The present officers of the society are: President, Robert Graewin; secretary, Gusta^- .lanke; treasurer, Carl Hanisch ; elder, Soren Kastberg. A Sunday school is ably oonducted by 3Irs. Emma Hornung and Alarie Koepcke, having an attendance of twenty-two scholars. Connected with the church there is a Ladies' Aid Society, consisting of twenty-five active members. The church property is estimated at .tlo.OOO. About twenty-six copies of the Gemeinde-Blatt and three copies of the Lutheran AVitness ar-e taken by the congregation. The salary paid to the pastor at present is .$400. The congregation possesses its own cemetery. Xorwalk Lutherans have one of the most beautiful, substantial and commodious church buildings in ]\Ionroe county. The basement of the ehnreli is utilized for school purposes.

St. Matthew'S, Town Of Lincoln

When the Rev. .1. .lenny, formerly stationed al iron Cr(>ek, near ]\Ienomouie, AVis., liecame the first resident Lutlieran minister of Tomah. Sei)teiiiber 28, 1884. lie was c.dled upon to take charge of the missidu in the town of Lincoln. Regular services were now held every three or four weeks in the school house on tlie Rlacdv River road, one and one-half miles north fi-om T\ii-by.

G. E. Bergemann, since 1887 pastor of Trinity church at South Ji.iy ( ity, ]Mich., assumed full charge of his clerical duties at ToHiali and town of Lincoln. December 16, 1894, a meeting was held by the mend)ers of the mission in the aforementioned school house immediately after service for the purpose of organizing a congregation. A constitution stating name, object and doctrinal position of the society was drafted and signed by the vofing members present, December 26, 1894. The organization was completed by electing the following olBcers : President, Rev. G. E. Bergemann; secretary, Wm. Hoffmann; treasurer, Wm. Kemp. The name "Eivangelical Lutheran St. ]\[atthew's Church of the Town of Lincoln, Monroe County, AVisconsin, " was unanimously selected.

A call to St. Peter's Lutheran church at Fond du Lac, Wis., ended the labors of Rev. Bergemann for this people, December, 1899, and the Rev. J. G. Glaeser was called from Naugart, AVis., entering upon his work January 14. 1900. Soon after his arrival a meeting was called to consider the question of building a church edifice. The congregation voted to purchase an acre of land from Llenry Severloh, Sr.. located on Black river road, only a few rods distant from the school house which had served the congregation for many years. It was decided to erect a building 26x40 feet, frame, with brick veneer, tower 52 feet high. The contract was awarded to E. A. Daher, of Tomah, early in the spring. In ]May the corner stone of the proposed building Avas laid with customary ceremonies, the local pastor delivering an appropriate and impressive address. July 1. 1900, the new church was dedicated to the worship of the Triune God, the former pastors. Rev. J. Jenny and G. E. Bergemann. upon special invitation by the congregation, conducting the dedication services. The total cost was .^1.600, there being nineteen members to contribute towards the elimination of the church debt which remained after the completion of the building. April 4. 1907, the congregation incorporated under the laws governing religious societies, the papers being filed at the Courthouse in Sparta, Col. 8, No. 223-224. The first board of trustees of six members w^ere : Aug. Kemp, Fred Gehrke, AVm. Schroeder, Frank Hoffman, Herman Gehrke and AYm. Kastens. In 1911 the congregation had the interior of the church covered with tasteful metal ceiling, at a cost of $225.

The membership is twenty-six A-oting, four contributing and about ninety communicant members. The present church officers are: Pastor, J. G. Glaeser; trustees, John Zahrte, August

Friedens Church, Town Of Little Falls

The tirst iiiiiiister of the gospel who acliuiiiistered the means of grace among tlie Lutheran families in the town of Little Falls, fourteen miles north of Sparta, was the Rev. Louis E. Junker, a self-sacrificing and devout Christian. He came from Burr Oak valley sixteen miles, where he had been located since 1878, and preached at irregular intervals in private residences and school houses. In the spring of 1882 Rev. Junker left this congregation and went as pastor to Eitzen, ]\Iinn., closing his earthly pilgrimage December 5, 1910.

After the removal of Rev. Junker the administration of the sacraments ceased until, through the instrumentality of ^Ir. John Loesch. a staunch Lutheran who had served Rev. Junker as driver, the Rev. J. J. ]Mcyer. an unpretending laborer in the Lord's vineyard, was called upon to look after the spiritual welfare of this people. Rev. ]\Ieyer resided at Burr Oak. and commenced to preach the AVord every fourth week in 1890. conducting divine Avorship with six families in district school house No. 6. the use of which was kindly and gratuitously granted to them l)y the school board, an offer wliich was accepted with gratitude! AVhen the little flock was strengthened by the addition of a few families coming from Irish Valley and Pine Hill, an organization was effected with sixteen male members in 1896. In the following year it was desired to erect a house of worship, ^lessrs. II. Parlow. AVm. Jahnke and Franic Zillmer Avere appointed as a building coniniittee. 'lln' new Iraiiic church, 32x42. tower oO feet, was appropriately dedicated October 2-1, 1897. the Rev. Meyer preaching. From 1882-1888 this preaching station was supplied with tlic AVoi'd of God by Rev. Pliillip Sprengling. a graduate from the seminary at .Milwaukee, who sat at the feet of Dr. A. L. GraebiH'r. a i'ecogniz(Hl authority on the history of the Lutheran church in America.

He Avas succeeded by Rev. AVilliam Parisius. Avho was installed as pastor of Christ's church at Burr Oak. and of Frieden's church on the 16th of Septend)er, 1900, by the Rev. R. Siegler. But since the Avork at Burr Oak so occupied the time of Rev. Parisius that he could not look after the interests of this congregation as Avell as he Avould like to, he asked them to (-aW upon some other neighboring minister.

Eev. n. AV. Sc'limeling, of Sparta, was secured. He preaches every alternate Sunday in the afternoon, conducting an English service immediately after the German every month.

The present congregation consists of 45 families, 160 communicants and 240 souls. The church officers are : President, August Brandt ; secretary, Albert Wegner ; treasurer, John Hanke. The Sunday school has a comparatively large enrollment. Summer school is held every year during July and August, religion and German reading and writing being the principal branches. The pastor resides at Sparta.

Portland Church, Town Of Portland

The first German settlers of the southwestern part of JMonroe county, known as Portland Center, came from Jefferson county, and were members of the Lutheran church. In May, 1862, Ferdinand Perso, Carl Voelz and William Hanke entered this district. Christian Hanke, August Savall and Frederic Breitenfeld came in close succession. Destitute of Lutheran preaching they resolved to send Mr. Christian Hanke, a strict Lutheran, to <\Iormon Cooley in order to secure the services of Rev. Fred. Wm. Hass. In 1865 this pioneer-preacher made his first appearance, traveling the distance of twenty-four miles on foot. Thus these early Lutherans were privileged to hear the gospel from the lips of an old acciuaintance, for some had known the Rev. Hass in Pomerania, Germany, where he labored as teacher in Alt-Sanskow and Zuchen for over twenty years. He crossed the ocean in 1856, settling at Watertown, "Wis., September 9, where, upon the advice of Phil. Wetzel, a teacher, a school was entrusted to his care by Rev. A. Wagner. October 1, 1858, he Avas made pastor of Bethany church and St. INIichael's, near Hustisford, and through the instrumentality of Rev. G. Fachtmann he located at IMormon Cooley, town of Shelby (formerly town of Greenfield), July 9, 1862. He died, seventy-one years of age, June 14, 1890.

The next pastor was Rev. Henry C. Dagefoerde, who was influenced by the powerful sermons of Pastor Ludwig Harms to enter the Hermannsburg Foreign Mission Institute at Hermannsburg, Hanover, Germany, in his thirty-sixth year, and who enjoyed the reputation of having been an industrious laborer in Christ's vineyard until his death at Trumann, Minn., October 9, 1910. He took charge of this congregation when he was installed as pastor of St. John's Lutheran church at Barre Mills, LaCrosse county, popularly known as "Bostvick Valley church," May 11, 1873, coming from Leeds, Columbia county, where he served liis first ehargo after his arrival in America, in 1869. Rev. Dagefoerde supplied this small band of Lutherans with the means of grace in the l*ortlaud Center school house until he took leave of his congregation at Barre Mills to labor at Bloomfield, Wis.

The fourth iiicumlieiit was Rev. K'ichai'd .^ieglei-. who pursued his collegiate studi<'s at Xorl Invest ern rni>'ersity. Watertown, AVis.. and has now adxaiieed to tlie position of tield missionary. He took 111. liis resi(]eiice at Uarre .Mills. A|.ril 26, 1886. In 1890, when West Salem and Bangor wei-e added lo his care, the congregation Avas advised to call upon the ser\ice of Rev. F. Bredlow. ])astor of Zion's Lutheran eliurcli at Klroy.

In a congregational meeiing held Xovember 80. 1890, a call was extended to Rev. Bi'edlo\\- for one yi'ar. his salary being $7."). He served this people as avcII as he could every third Sunday, traveling ])y rail to Alelvina or Norwalk and then walking the rest of the (listanc(> to Portland Center. Tlie Rev. F. Bredlow was born May 31, 1852, at Eichberg, near Kreuz, Province of Posen, Oermany. He came to this country in 1881 and then acquired his training for the Avork of the ministry at the Lutheran theological seminary of the AVisconsin synod in Alilwaukee, located in Eimmermann's park, on Thirteenth, between A'^ine street and Fond du I^ac avenue. He finished his course in 1886 and has served congregations at Thei'csa, Dodge county; Tuckertown, Sauk county, and Elroy, .Tuneau county. Mr. Bredlow is now

After the removal of Rev. Bredlow, the Rev. W. Parisius, Avho had recently arrived from the pro-seminary for America at Kropp, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, was placed in charge of this organization. He was introduced to his congregation at Elroy, August 27, 1893, by Rev. E. Mayerhoff, a superannuated minister of the Lutheran church, and drove to Portland via Kendall, Ontario, Cashton, a distance of about forty miles, once a month.

In 1895 this congregation came under the pastoral care of Rev. Theodor Hartwig, who located at Bangor as the first resident minister of St. Paul's church, an offshoot from the Bostviek Valley church, September 15, 1895. Rev. Hartwig obtained his education in the schools of the Lutheran church in Watertown and ^Milwaukee, is a contributor to the Theologische Quartalschrift, a religious periodical, and read a doctrinal paper at the last convention of the Wisconsin synod, assembled at Milwaukee, June 19-24, 1912.

When Rev. Hartwig took leave of this flock to follow a call to Naugat, Wis., the Rev. William F. Rader, for twenty-one years pastor of St. John's, at Wauwatosa, Wis., was appointed to this charge, his installation taking place in the fall of 1904. He remained until 1908, when he was transferred to Prairie du Chien, Wis., the Rev. H. Schmeling, of Sparta, in the meantime filling the pulpit.

The present pastor is the Rev. Carl W. Siegler. who ministered to St. John's church at Stanton. Neb., from October, 1900. to July, 1907, serving at the same time as recording secretary of the district synod of Nebraska, affiliated with the general synod of Wisconsin, IMinnesota, Michigan and other states. He entered upon his duties in January, 1909.

The congregation now numbers eleven voting and five contributing members. The property owned by the congregation is estimated at $1,500. The present church officers are : C. Perso, Wm. Rosenow and A. Breitenfeld. A graveyard surrounds the church.

St. Peter'S, Town Of Clifton

The first Lutheran sermon in the towns of Clifton and Oakdale was preached during ]\Iay. 1863, in the house of Christian Hergert, by Prof. Dr. Ed. F. ^Moldehnke, first itinerant mission- iiry ol' the Wist-onosiii syjiod. Jii 3865 St. Peter's, second oldest J^uthcran cougregation in ^loiiroe couuty, commonly called "Clifton'' or "Jndian Creek" clnucli. was organized at tiir residence of Christian Joos, Avho came to this section of the state from Jefferson county in 1859.

The first regular nnnister representing the TiUthci-an churt-h in this Aicniity was Rev. John August lloyer, who emigrated from Hamburg, Germany, April 15, 18()5, and came to Ridgeville. August 25, as the first resident minister in ]\Ionroe county, lie preached his first sermon to the newly organized congregation in the latter part of October, supplying this charge Avitii preaching every third Sunday, the services being held in private dwellings and jiublic school houses. After two years of faithful labor. Rev. Iloyer accepted a call to Eldorado, near Fond du Lae. Wis., and })reached his farewell sermon on the seventeenth Sunday after Trinity, October 13. 1867. Ilis last entry in the Clnirch- Record reads: "The Lord bless this congregation, young and old, unto eternal life and salvation. Amen."

Ilis successor was Rev. Ludwig Ebert. wlio came to America from the Pilgrim IMission House at St. Chrischona, near Basel. Switzerland, in 1862, to serve the Lutheran church in the Diaspora. During his pastorate in 1869 steps were taken to erect a house of Avorship on a site presented to the congregation by Fred. Geil, t"wo and one-half miles west from the present village of Clifton, on the old ]\Iinnesota stage road. The result was a frame building, 24x.36xl6 feet in dimensions, which was solemnly dedicated on the ITtli of October, 1869, the Rev. Ebert preaching the dedicatory sermon at the altar from the First Book of Kings, eighth chapter, verses 22-30, 54-60, ami then expounding from the pulpit the fundamental doctrine of justification according to John 3 :16.

After Rev. Ebert 's departure, which occurred around Easter. 1870, a call was extended to Rev. Albert F. Siegler, of IMenomonie, Wis. He followed the example of his predecessor and resided at Ridgeville, breaking the bread of Life to this congregation every third Sunday. Extending his missionary journeys into Jackson, AVood and Juneau counties, he deemed it necessary to divide his field and induced Indian Creek, Dorset Ridge, South Ridge and AVilton to call their own minister.

This plan went into effect when ]\Ir. AV. II. Bergholz, a graduate from Concordia seminary. St. Louis, ^lo.. came to live at Dorset Ridge, six miles south of the Clifton church, his ordination and installation taking place July 13. 1873. In 1877 he severed

He was followed by Rev. Carl Zlonike, who, after taking active part in the Austro-Priissian and Franco-Prussian wars, had left the fatherland as a candidate of th-^ Wangeniann Mission Institute at Berlin, Germany, commissioned for emigrant missionary work in America. After a conscientious discharge of his ministerial duties he moved to Golden, 111.

Mr. Julius Badke, graduating from the Practical seminary of the Missouri synod at Springfield, 111., succeeded to the pastorate in 1880, being ordained for the ministry by Rev. E. A. Pankow, November 25, 1880. He relinquished his charge in July, 1884, and then left for Glencoe, Trempeleau county, AVisconsin. afterwards entering the Canada synod, of which he still is a member, residing at Brantford, Ontario.

Immediately after his predecessor's resignation. Rev. Frank Stej'er was called from Ahnapee (Algoma), Kewaunee county, Wisconsin, where he had been active as missionary, covering the territory along the "Wisconsin Central railroad, from Auburndale to Ashland. During his pastorship a commodious parsonage was built on the property adjoining the church, and henceforth we find the ministers of this charge permanently located in the midst of this congregation.

In a joint meeting held at Wilton, under the chairmanship of Rev. A. Schoedel in the spring of the year 1889, it was decided to divide the field comprising St. Peter's at Clifton, Immanuel's at Dorset Ridge, St. Matthew's at South Ridge, and St. Paul's at Wilton. As a result Rev. John Casparius Himmler was called to Indian Creek and Dorset Ridge, Avhile South Ridge and Wilton became a separate charge. ]\Ir. Ilinnnler reports at the celebration of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the congregation, 664 baptisms, 304 confirmations. 112 weddings and 181 burials.

Rev. Himmler 's ministry with this organization lasted until 1895, and Rev. Henry Viestenz was chosen as the next officiating pastor. On IMay 25, 1896, the resolution was passed to erect a new church. Messrs. R. Grassmann, H. Battalia, J. Senz, A. Brockmann and C. von Iladen were appointed the building committee. October 17. 1896, the new frame church, 34x50 feet, was consecrated to the service of Almighty God, Rev. J. Himmler, Helenville. Wis., and Rev. L. Ranch, Fountain City, Wis., preaching able sermons. After an efficient service of seven years Rev. Viestenz was obliged to resign on account of ill health, March 16, 1902.

health, Rev. Iimnauuel Brackebnseh was chosen to become his successor. He came from Door county and preached his first sermon in ]\Iarch. December 18, 1108, Si. Paul's church, at Hustler, was organized with members of this congregation. In a regular congregational meeting, held on the 26th of .June. 1912, it was decided to introduce f]nglish preaching once a montii. The first service of this kind was conducted .lul\- 14. 1!)12.

The congregation at ])resent iniinhers sixty-six voting and fourteen paying members. The present officiary of the church is: Rev. I. Brackebusch, president: Rich. Wagner, vice-president; Ed. Wappler, secretary; Al. Brockniann, treasurer; Gustav Grassmann, John Brandt, Louis von lladen, trustees. Connected with the church is a school Avith thirty to forty scholars, the basement of the church being used as a school room. The chiu-eh property is valued at about il^o,000.

Immanuel'S, Town Of Clifton

Lnmanuel's Lutheran church more commonly known as "Dorset church," is located five miles northAvest from Kendall. It was organized, in all probability, in 1870, upon the suggestion of ]\Ir. Hugo AVetzel, who Avas the first German pioneer in this vicinity, coming from Dodge county in 1861. In the summer of 1870 a parsonage and a church were erected of hewn logs upon a site deeded to the organization by Ernestine AYetzel on March 28, 1870. During the same year, in the fall, Rev. Phil. "Wetzel arrived from Hustisford, AYis., and preached at irregular intervals to Hugo AYetzel, Christian Ililke, Henry Zarling, Fred Thurow, Carl Glander, Christian AYolkow, Carl Radloflt" and Fred Raabe. But since ]Mr. AYetzel Avas no ordained minister nor connected Avitli a Lutheran synod, the Rev. A. F. Siegler, pastor at Ridgeville, Avas called upon to perform the duties of an ordained clergyman. He preached in the parsonage and in the incomplete church until Rev. "\Y. Bergholz Avas chosen first resident pastor, serving at the same time St. Peter's at Clifton and St. MatthcAv^s at South Ridge.

In a joint meeting AA'hich Avas called by the Dorset, Clifton and South Ridge congregations, January 10. 1877. it Avas agreed to appoint Rev. C. Zlomke from Atlantic. la., to the charge. He entered the field during !May. preaching on tAVO consecutive Sundays at Dorset and Clifton, and devoting every third Sabbath day to missionary Avork in the South Ridge and AYilton settlements. His salary amounted to $325, Immanuel's contributing $125. When he Avas granted an honorarj' dismissal, June 27, 1880,

In October, 1880, the congregation came under the pastoral care of Rev. J. Badke, who had been connected with the Illinois Staatszeitung, in Chicago, until he determined to prepare himself for the ministry, graduating from Concordia seminary, Springfield, 111., in June, 1880. He moved into the parsonage on the 26tli of October and delivered his introductory sermon on the last of the same month. Under his administration, February 11, 1883, the board of trustees was enlarged, consisting now of six members instead of the customary three, viz. : Carl Siekert, Ferd. Waege, Fred Raabe, Fred Thurow, Fred Steingraeber and Henry AVestphal. In January, 1883, Rev. Badke decided to move to Wilton. This caused considerable dissatisfaction on the part of the congregation, and the visitor. Rev. Phil, von Rohr, Winona, Minn., was called upon to settle the difficulties. The result was that the congregation, consisting of thirty-six families, changed the constitution and called a Reformed minister.

On May 13, 1883, Rev. John Wirz, stationed at Ridgeville, where, in 1873, under similar conditions, a Reformed church sprang into existence, spoke his first sermon and was soon after, June 3, chosen as preacher. In consequence of this change a few members deemed it inconsequent to have a Reformed pastor preach to Lutheran people and withdrew. They were : Fred Zimmermann, August Klatt, Fred Thurow, Carl Zimmermann, August AA^olfgram, Henry Koehler and Carl Bellack.

Rev. F. Steyer, who had been appointed by the remaining three congregations, took up his residence at Clifton and came to preach in the Strozinsky school house to the few aforenamed Lutherans. Instruction for confirmation was conducted in a vacant house belonging to Mr. Bruno Krueger. After a few months they worshiped in district school house No. 5. At last, the congregation failing to collect the promised $200 salary, the Rev. Wirz was asked to resign, June 4, 1886. On April 17, 1887, Rev. Steyer was allowed to preach in the church, whereupon he was chosen pastor May 2d.

In the spring of 1889 Rev. Steyer dissolved his connection with this congregation in order to go to Fair Haven, Stearns county, INIinnesota, and Rev. J. Himmler came to fill the vacancy, his installation taking place on the 7th day of July, 1889. He labored diligently in the midst of this congregation and at Clifton, South Ridge and Wilton, having in the meantime separated from this charge with intentions of calling their own minister.

Rev. Iliinnilcr. luning been called to St. Peter's ehurch at lleleiiville, AVis.. in the spring of 1895, was succeeded by Rev. II. Yiosteuz, who had last held a position as pastor of several Lutheran organizations in the town of Greeufield, Sauk county, Wisconsin. Soon after ills arrival it became evident that a larger edifice was essential to the prosperity of the congregation, and it was decided to erect a new church structure. The l)uilding committee was composed of the following men: Fred Zimmermann. Christian Glauder and Fred Raabe. In the fall of 1898 the elegaiil cliurch, 28x44 feet in size, Avith a seating capacity of 250, Avas completed, the dedication taking place on October 23, Rev. AV. Parisins officiating in tlie forenoon and Rev. G. Bergeinann i)reaehiiig an ai)i)r()pi-iate sermon at the afternoon's service. In 1902 Rev. Yiestenz' health began to fail and he was finally obliged to discontinue his work on that account.

After his departure the congregation gave a call to Rev. Im. Brackebusch. the i)resent pastor, who was installed into the pastorate of linmanuel's Lutheran church on the 9th of ]\Iarch, 1902, by request of Rev. Phil, von Rohr, late president of the Wisconsin synod, the Rev. J. G. Glaeser delivering the sermon.

The church enrollment nuiii])ers at present forty-two voting and eleven paying members. The present board of trustees are; Eniil Pasch. president; August Raabe, secretary; Christian Glander, treasurer; Ed. AYendorf, Al. Gloede and Carl Glander, elders. The churdi pro[)erty is valued at $4,500. Every other year German school is held during six months, the average attendance Ix'ing .dxuil Iwenly-iive. Public serAices are conducted every alternate Sunday. The minister occupies the parsonage at Clifton, six miles north.

St. Matthew'S, Town Of Wellington

Tlie nucleus of Si. .Matthew's Lutlieian churcli, al the junc- 1ion of South Ridge and Pleasant Ridge, in lise town of \Yellington. may be found in a conversation between Louis Friske and a Lutheran from Ridgeville. at Enderby's uiill in Wilton, in the fall of 18()!). When lojd aliout ihe existence of a Lutiieran church at Ridgevide. Louis Friske and his h -oilier Julius walked fourteen miles to hear a Lutheran sei-mon. .'\s a result Rev. L. Ebert. i)astor of St. .loim's Lulhci'an church in the town of Ridgeville. inaugurated Lutheran |)reaching at South Ridge. whci'c until then .Methodist ministei-s from Spring A'alley had been condui'ling services at the .Musch schot)l house with Lutheran people. The homes of Peter Friske and John Klaehr were the tirst gathering places. Those who attended here Avere : Louis Friske, ]\lilliam Schatz, Carl Brandenbvirg, Peter Friske, AVilliani Pahl, Carl Rohde, William Arndt, August Bartz, Louis Ziebart, Fred ^laluege, Julius Friske, Louis IMusch. AVilliam Brandenburg, John Klaehr. Pastor Ebert conducted divine worship once a month on week days, administering Holy Communion on Sundays, this hai)pening four times during the year.

AVlien, in April, 1871, Rev. Ebert resigned at Ridgeville and chose some other vocation, the Rev. A. F. Sicgler was appointed to fill the vacancy. He continued the good work of his predecessor and came to labor among these Lutherans during midweek, mostly on AVednesdays, accompanied by AV. AYaegner, a devout layman. On account of large attendance Air. Siegler abandoned the services in private houses and began preaching at the Alusch school house.

Noticing that the care of fifteen congregations and preachingstations exceeded his power, the Rev. Siegler insisted upon calling a special minister for Dorset Ridge, Indian Creek and South Ridge. The proper man was found in the person of Rev. AA". Bergholz, who took up his residence in an old-time log house on the Dorset ridge in 1873. He came every third Sabbath day, often walking the distance of fourteen miles. The minister's salary at that time was $3 per member.

Rev. Bergholz. in the meantime having received a call to the eastern part of the state, was followed by Rev. C. Zlomke, who Avithdrew from the Iowa synod in 1875 on account of doctrinal differences. His installation took place on Alonday before Pentecost, Alay 14, 1877, and w^as effected by Rev. A. F. Siegler. Air. Zlondvc. who served in the Second squadron of the First Royal Hussar regiment at Danzig, Germany, in 1864, made use of his skill as a horseman, coming on horseback from Dorset to teach the children the fundamental truths of Christianity on Saturday and preaching Christ every third Sunday.

After three years' service Rev. Zlomke was succeeded by Rev. J. Badke, who came from the fatherland in June, 1864, and after many hardships finally entered the ministry, serving the congregations at Dorset, Clifton, AA'ilfon and South Ridge as his first charge. During his incumbency, January, 1881, the resolution was i)assed to build a church. January 7, 1883, the church officers, Gottlieb Jesse, Louis Ziebart, Henry Klaehr, were authorized to purchase a tract of land comprising one acre from Frank AVebb, at a cost of $60.

for whom a parsoiiaj^e liad hoeii l)iiilt at Clii'ton, beginning his ministry in 1884. Difficulties arising during the building period, 1880-1887, (h'manded i)rea('hing ;i1 the red ])riek and the Ileffernan school liouses, until the new diurrli, ;i0xr)0x20 feet, Avas completed, and October 16, 1887. approi>riately dedicated, the Rev. A. Schroedel delivering the sermon and the local pastor ably conducting the dedicatory services. Rev. Steyer preached his last sermon on Easter ]\Ionday. April 22, 1889, and then removed to Minnesota, where he united with the ^Missouri synod, which, together with the AVisconsin, ^Minnesota, ]Michigan and Nebraska synods, forms the synodicnl conl'erence, the largest Lutheran church body in Americn.

In the spring of 1889, by the ri'comnieni'ation of the .synod, this parish, comprising four congregations in the eastern section of this county since 1873, divided, St. Peter's at Clifton and Ininianuel's at Dorset forming one charge, and St. Paul's at AVilton and St. Matthew's at South Ridge the other. The latter at once extended a uninamous call to Rev. .1. Ziebell. who accepted and took charge July G, 1889. Immediately after his installation he settled at AVilton, six miles northwest, from which place this congregation was supplied until it becanu' an independent charge, in 1908.

A several years' vacancy occurred when Rev. Ziebell resigned in the winter of 1892. During this time, 1892-1895, St. Alatthew's had the service of Rev. C. Koehler, from Ridgeville. lie conducted divine worship every third Sunday, tending at the same time to tlie construction of a parsonage at AVilton. towards which this congregation contributed il<250.

The next incumbent was Rev. J. Ilering, at one time assistant professor in the seminary of tlie Towa synod. During his ministry, in 1899. an organ was bt)uglit ; two bells were dedicated in 1905. January 25. 1908, it was agreed to separate from the AVilton charge and engage a minister. A property opi)osite the cliui-cli was securetl from F. F. Alachus at .$1,500 to serve as a i)arsonage.

Rev. PI. Zimmermann, foriiierl\- at Shickley, Neb., followed the call which was extended to him on the 11th day of June, 1908, thus becoming the first resident jiastor. Authorized by the president of the synod, the Rev. Ziunnei-mann Avas installed as pastor o! this conogregation by Rev. J. Ilering on the 2d of August, 1908. I'pon his instigation a seccnid organ was obtained, which served for the first time on the 28d of ^lay, 1910. Rev. A. F. Siegler preaching a special sermon upon this occasion.

The present church membership consists of 88 voting, 8 contributing and 310 communicant members, 451: souls. This church also maintains a day school, which has an enrollment of forty pupils, German and religion being the principal studies. Regular monthly English services have become a permanent institution. The following are the present officers : Wm. Graewin, president ; Otto Schnell, secretary ; Louis Klaehr, treasurer ; Albert Neitzel, elder. The value of the church property, including parsonage, is about $6,300. The church will be ready for re-dedication about the 1st of September.

St. Paul'S, Wilton

When, in 1873, upon the request of Rev. A. F. Siegler, until then the only stationary Lutheran minister in Monroe county, the Rev. W. Bergholz was chosen pastor of the Indian Creek, Dorset and South Ridge settlements, this field of labor was soon, in 1875, extended by the addition of a preaching post in the vicinity of AYilton. The names of those assembling for divine services at the Mitchel school house, one and one-half miles south of the village, were: Christian Holch, John Jesse, AYilliam Arndt, August Bartz, Carl Liefke, August Rohde and Carl Brandenburg. They contributed $20 towards the support of the minister.

Upon the departure of Mr. Bergholz, which occurred in 1877, Rev. C. Zlomke was elected to serve the society, the Rev. A. F. Siegler supplying the pulpit until his arrival. Pastor Zlomke came to proclaim the gospel to this little flock every third Sunday on his return from South Ridge, where he preached in the morning. His annual pay was $30. In 1880, when the same call had been tendered for the second time, Rev. Zlomke moved to Illinois, and from there to St. Joseph, ]\Iicli., vvdiere he was connected with Trinity Lutheran church for twenty-eight years, retiring from active service in 1911 after a continuous service of thirty-eight years.

In 1880 Rev. J. Badke was appointed to take charge of the four congregations belonging to this parish: Immanuel's at Dorset Ridge, St. Peter's at Indian Creek, St. Matthew's at South Ridge, and St. Paul's near Wilton. On account of inconvenience of location and insufficient accommodations, it was determined in May, 1882, to discontinue preaching at the Mitchel school house. Services were now held at the L^nited Brethren church, in AVillon. \\liicli "was rcnitod for an in<h>finite period at $16 per iiiimiiii. Ju .Januai'v, 1883, Rov. Badkc found it expedient to live in AViitou and consequently vacated the parsonage on Dorset Ridge. Here he eanie in contact with Rev. Phil. AVetzel, who, in consequence of advanced age, had retired from the Dorset Ridge in the I'ail of 187:^, preaching occasionally to his family and a circle of close friends. After tlie arrival of Rev. I^adke. .Mr. AV(4zel refrained from public preaching, and soon, ill 1884. rctui-ned to Watertown, AVis., his former home. Avhei-e he-died JMarch 8, ]890, eighty-four years of age. In 1884, Api-il 2. tile coiigregation adopted a constitution by which it shall be govci'iicd. The church ot'ticers appointed at l!iis meeting were: W. Arndt. II. .Mittag, J. Schroeder, F. AVaege. Rev. Badke connnenced preaching every alternate Sunday in the afternoon, for wliicli service he received $30, since 1883, $50.

Air. Badke was succeeded in 1884 by Rev. F. Steyer, who preached to his parishioners in the chapel ov ned by the United Brethren, coming foiu'teen miles froni ("lit'lon, Avhere a roomy and comfortable parsonage had been built for the pastors of this charge. Fel)ruary 7, 1887. the congregation organized under the state laws in the presence of Air. August Newhouse, the justice of the peace. Soon the necessity of possessing a place of worship Avas severely felt. Ste]is Avere. therefore, taken to secure a site on whicdi to er(»ct a suitable church edifice. A tract of Innd was ])ui'chased from Frank Farmer, one block west from tiie Knglish eluireli. Two hundred and sixty-four dollars were signed by the thirty-four members, and $11.") were collected from the Inisiness people and neighboring congregations. The completed church building was appropriately dedicated December 11, 1887, Revs. A. Schroedel, of Ridgeville, and A. Sehlei, of AVonewoc, AVis.. officiating Avith the pastor. In the spring of 1889 ReA'. Steyer accepted a pastorate in Alinnesota, but soon moved to Arkansas, Avhere he lias ser\'ed a number of congregations attached 1o th(» Alissouri syiuxl for more than eighteen y(»ars.

After Rev. Steyer 's honorary dismissal, the synod advised to divide this charge, lu'oposing Rev. J. llinnuler for Indian Creek and Doiset Ridge, and Rev. J. Ziebell for AVilton and South Ridge. Thi' inslallation of Rca'. Ziebell. formerly of Elroy, occurred on the 7th of July, 1880. the sermon of the occasion being given by Rev. A. Schroedel. July 14, 1802. tAvo acres of lai:d Avere bought from O. \. Ilillger for a cemetery, tlie ground being consecrated on Ihe 31st of July, (^n December 5,

During the interim which followed Rev. Christian Koehler, jiastor at Ridgeville, supplied the congregation with regular preaching from December, 1892, to January, 1895. He superintended, in 1893, the erection of a parsonage on the lot adjoining the church. In the construction of this parsonage, main part 24x16x16 feet, addition 24x16x10 feet, an expenditure of $881 has been made. South Ridge congregation contributing $250.

December 14, 1894, Rev. Julius Hering, who received his classical training at the universities of Leipsig and Rostock, Germany, was called from Norton, Minn. The call was accepted and by authority of the president of the Wisconsin synod, the late Phil, von Rohr, the Rev. C. Koehler installed Mr. Hering on the 27th of January, 1895. An organ was purchased in 1896, a bell was placed in the belfry in 1898, church furniture was obtained in 1899. a marble baptismal font is used since 1911. On January 23, 1897, the spire of the church ^\as struck by lightning, causing considerable damage. July 4, 1897, it was decided to repair the damage and add sixteen feet to the old church. ]\Ir. Adolf Prochnow, the contractor, finished the work in November.

The membership of this church is represented by about seventy families. A parochial school is held under the auspices of the church, with about thirty-five in attendance, in a special building bought for this purpose in 1906. The present church officers are : Fred Schroeder, president ; Ferdinand Waege, secretary ; Hugo Limp, treasurer ; Emil Friske, elder. The amount of the pastor's salary is $550. Since 1908 St. Paul's is an independent charge.

St. John'S, Kendall

The first attempt to gather the few scattered Lutherans in and about Kendall into a local congregation was made by Rev. John Wirz, a Reformed minister, in 1884. Mr. Wirz, who lived on the Dorset Ridge, where, besides Salem's Reformed church at Ridgeville, he served Immanuel's Lutheran church, came here every third Sunday to preach to eight families : Julius Raabe, Henry Paeth, Ernest Siekert, John Boetzel, August Rosenkranz, Carl Sumke, August Raabe, George Krause, receiving $8 per member for his salary. But when, in the summer of 1886, ]\Ir. Wirz accepted a call to Cincinnati, 0., this little flock disbanded, some of its adherents moving West, the remainder at-

The second effort to establish a Lutheran cliurch was made twelve years later by Rev. AVm. Parisius, wiio resided at Klroy, and i)i(;i(li((I to a congregation in the town of Glendale, four miles southeast of Keiidnll. lie conducted divine services every alternate Sunday, especially in the shoe shop of ]Mr. Jul. Friske, the former toAvn hall, having about twenty persons in the audience, among others: H. ]'rielii)p, August Rlieden, Julius Friske. Frank Schankc, Ijouis Jahnke, Emil Friske and Fred ^Mantzke. In 1899 failing health compelled liim to limit his woi-k to the congregations at Elroy, Glendale and Ilillsboro. thus leaving Kendall Lutherans without a spiritual guide. His successor, Rev. L. Ranch. i)reached twice in the house of ^\v. IT. Prielipp, in 1900.

After five years Rev. Im. l^r.ickebusch, pastor of St. Peter's Lutheran church at Clifton, endeavored to organize a Lutheran congregation. Upon the urgent request of Mr. Fred Zimmermann, an elder of the Dorset charge living in Kendall, Rev. Brackel)usch wrote to the Home Mission Board of the "Wisconsin synod, asking them lo commission a pastor for Kendall. But they did not deem tlic plan expedient and nuittcrs Avere dropped. Then it happened that the Rev. Brackebusch called the attention of Rev. Phil, von Rohr. at that time president of the AVisconsin synod, to this inviting and seemingly ])romising field, whereupon the responsiliility for the provision of these i)eople rested with the ])resi(lent himself. In Alay, 190t), the superintendent of the home Alission board, Rev. E. F. Dornfeld, came to investigate the religious outlook, advising to form a congregation and raise $100 as a salary for a pastoi". A meeting was called for the 17th of -lunc. Id lake i)lace at the home of Fred Zinnnermann. A call sisiiicd l)y August Wolfgram. August Zirk. Fred Zimnun-mann. Ilein-y Kiel. George AViese, Ilernum Prielipp and Henry Stade, was delivered to Rev. Brackebusch. instructing him to a])pear with it before synod, assembling at Alilwaukee, June 20-2(). The result was that Senior E. Alayerhoff was induced to look after the spii-ilual welfare of these Lutherans. Coming from AVonewoc. Wis., by rail, he ])ri;u"lu'd six times in the Alethodist church until, in October, he was called to Norwalk to officiate as vicar.

In 1907 Rev. Otto Engel came to Norwalk as a graduate from the tlieological seminary in Alilwaukee, AVis.. with instructions to resei've (^'erv third Sundax' for Kendall, lie deli\('re(l his first sermon at Norwalk on the 25th of August, and came to Kendall to rent a church and advertise Lutheran services on the last of the same month. The Rev. Engel preached his first sermon to a Kendall audience September 8, 1907, at the Baptist church, then located in the northern section of the village, near the Catholic church. When the small band of faithful Lutherans were refused the use of this house of worship, they rented the English Methodist church. Soon after a Sunday school was commenced, Avith jMrs. Sophia Kiel, Manda AA'iese,, IMinnie Waffle, Paulina Pasch as first teachers. After several informal meetings a special meeting was announced for the 12th of January, 1908. On that day an organization was effected, the society resolving to adopt the name, "Evangelical Lutheran St. John's Congregation." The founders were: Fred Zimmermann, August Krause, Fred Flatow, Henry Kiel, Herman Prielipp, George Wiese, August Klatt, Henry Stade, William AVitt, August Heseley, Fred Apmann, Gustave Gruhlke. Having as yet no church property of their own, they at once decided to accept a lot donated by Mr. H. P. Waffle, a descendant of the Mohawk Dutch in New York, and proposed to build a church. George Wiese and William Witt comprised the building committee. On the 10th of May, 1908, a regular congregational meeting was held for the purpose of incorporating according to the laws of the state. May 13 rules and by-laws for the government of the church were accepted and signed at the house of Henry Kiel. The new church, a frame building in gothic style, 80x56x18 feet, was solemnly dedicated on the 28th of October, 1908, the following pastors participating: Rev. Im. Brackebusch, of Clifton; Rev. H. Zimmermann. of South Ridge ; Rev. 0. Kuhlow, of Wonewoc, Wis. The total cost of the building was $2,800. The first mission festival was held September 12, 1909, Revs. H. Viestenz, Greenfield, Wis. ; G. Baum, North Freedom, Wis., and H. Zimmermann, South Ridge, delivering mission sermons. The first confirmation took place March 20, 1910, six being taken up into membership.

At present the congregation numbers twenty-five voting, five contributing and about seventy communicant members. The summer school, whose organization is contemporaneous with the beginning of the church itself, has an attendance of seventeen pupils. The church property is valued at $3,500. The present trustees are : August Krause, president ; Fred Zimmermann, secretary; Henry Kiel, treasurer. ^Meetings are held every third

St. John'S, Shennington

This eongregation is located on the boundary line of ]Monroe juitl -luneau eounties, the majority of its nnmibers living in the town of liyroii, .Monroe county.

The first Lutheran minister of the AVisconsin synod who visited this district Avas the Rev. G. E. Bergemann, then residing at Tdinah, thirteen miles southwest, the occasion being the burial of ]\Ir. AVill's child, February. 1897. Those M-ho came to hear the i)reaching of Christ and Ilim crucified, were members of the families of AVill, Kunkel and Koppehengst. The Rev. Bergemann labored very acce])tably for two years, when he was called to Fond du Lae, Wis., where, since 1908, he serves in the capacity of president of the "Wisconsin synod.

This preaching post Avas now supi)lied by the mini.sters occupjdng the parsonage at Clii'ton. hi 1S99 the Rev. II. F. Yiestenz entered the field, having ])r('viously been preaching at a school house two and one-half miles north of Oakdale. Under his energetic guidance St. John's was organized at the red school house, one and one-half miles west of Shennington. Those who signed their names to the constitution were : Fred Laudon, J. B. Helmuth, August Schmeckel, Henry Busse, F. Kunkel, C. Tiedemann, Henry Busching. John Schmidt and Herman Baumann.

The next pastor was Rev. 0. B. Nommensen, a candidate for the ministry, his ordination and installation taking place on the 25th of August, 1907, Rev. B. P. Nommensen, Wm. Nommensen and Brackebusch officiating. In December, 1907, New Lisbon was added to this charge, and Rev. Nommensen removed to that place. February 7, 1909, an honorary dismissal was granted to Rev. Nommensen, allowing him to accept a position as pastor at South Milwaukee.

The present pastor is Rev. H. Brockmanu, who came to this field from Beaver Dam, Wis. He has established for himself a reputation as an artist, having painted the life-size portraits of Rev. Phillip von Rohr, late president of the Wisconsin synod, and of Rev. John Bading, venerable president of the synodical conference, for Northwestern college, Watertown, Wis.

The present membership includes eighteen families. The present board of trustees consists of the following members: Gust Woggan, Fred Laudon, August Schmeckel. The value of the church property is $1,700. The church is served every alternate Sunday from New Lisbon.

St. Luke'S, Town Of Glendale

The German element in the town of Glendale, to the greatest extent Lutherans coming from the metropolis of the state during the panic of 1893, at first attended church in Elroy, where a Lutheran congregation existed since 1885. In the winter of 1894 Rev. Wm. Parisius, who is closely related to the famous dramatist, Henric Ibsen, conducted school in the Schauer valley, instructing children from five to fifteen years of age, and through them gaining their parents for church. In January, 1898, a number of Lutherans assembled at the home of Gustav Schauer for the purpose of organizing a congregation. There were thirteen charter members, as follows: William AA^allberg, Fred Schauer, Robert Holtz, Ferdinand Ziese, Gustav Schauer, William Knoll, Julius Weber, Carl Schauer, William Weisspfennig, John Zirk, William Ludwig and William jMatz. On the 12th of February, 1898, it was proposed to build a church on the site deeded to the congregation by Gustav Schauer. The building committee consisted of AVm. Wallberg, Rob. Holtz and H. Ziese. The church, though small, 20x36x14 feet, is neat and churchly in appearance. The dedicatory services were held by the pastor. Rev. Parisius, in the fall of 1899, the sermon being

Wlieu Rev. Parisius, in 1900, assumed a pastorate in Jiurr Oak, LaCrosse county, Wisconsin. Rev. L. Raueh, of Fountain City, Wis., was vnianimously elected to ])e pastor of Zion's at Elroy, St. Paul's al Ilillsboro. and St. Luke's at Glendale. lie accepted in August, sup|)lying the pulpit of Ihc last mentioned congregation every second wecl\. During his administration the fii'st mission festival was celebrated, October 15, 15)11, Rev. K. Mayerhoft' preaching the morning sermon and stud, theol. 11. Zimmci-mann i-endering a suitable sermon in the afternoon. ri)on his instigation a Sunday school was organized, with ]\Ir. AVm. Wallberg as superintendent and the following as teachers: ^Messrs. Jul. Seefeld, Wm. Ludwig, Carl Schauer, Rich. Ziese, Carl IMatz, and .Miss Bertha Ziese.

Pi-()])()sim1 by Dr. Stoecker, the court chaplain, foi- a pastorate in IJeilin, Germany, Rev. Ranch resigned in the fall i)f IHO^i and was succeeded by Rev. P. Schroeder, who had been serving congregations at Hartland and Pewaukee, Wis., since 1897. In 1905 the congregation purchased an organ and communion ware. The lodge (piestion, which caused a rupture in the congregation at Klroy in 1906, also agitated the members of this congregation, but without serious results.

Rev. E. Diierr became successor to Rev. Schroeder. who resigned in order to accept a call to Germania. Wis. His stay was of short duration, vacating the charge in the fall of 1010, by folloAving a call to the Zicui-Rosendale charge in Fond du Lac county.

Shortly after the resignation of Rev. Duerr. Rev. H. Zimmerii'.ann. of South Ridge, served as a supply for nine months, until, in July, 1911, the present pastor. Rev. G. Westerhaus. a late graduate from the seminary at ^Milwaukee, came to take up his ministerial duties. He introduced regiilar English preaching with much success, and teaches a summer school.

The congregation has seventeen voting and a few paying members on the roll, and has a graveyard of its own. The present board of trustees are : Carl Schauer, vice-president ; Win. Matz, secretary; Fred Schultz, treasurer. 'Pliis little flock contributes $125 per annum towards the su]iport of the pastor.