UNIVERSITY OF
ILLINOIS L^
AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
ILLfNOIS HISTORICAL
Seventy- Fifth
Anniversary
History
of the
First Baptist Church
URBANA, ILLINOIS
Organized September 21, 1838
A day in golden letters to be set
Among the high tides of the calendar
Rev. Gideon M. Shott, D. D.
Pastor
Diamond Jubilee Week
September 21-28, 1913
Complements of
The History Committee
L. A. McLean, Chairman.
Mrs. Melissa Carson.
Mrs. Margaret Walker.
Mrs. R. A. Webber.
, N. A. Riley.
Rev. G. M. Shott, SecretarjJ
Seventy- Fifth
ANNIVERSARY HISTORY
OF THE
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
URBANA, ILLINOIS
ORGANIZED SEPTEMBER 21, 1838
DIAMOND JUBILEE WEEK
SEPTEMBER 21-28, 1913
"A day in golden letters to be set
Among the high tides of the calendar."
Rev. Gideon M. Shott, D. D.
Pastor
PREFACE
The Historical Committee was ap-
pointed to write the history of the
First Baptist Church of Urbana, for
the period of 75 years, from September
21st, 1838, to September 21st, 1913.
Our task would have been compara-
tively an easy one if the material had
been collected. On the other hand it
has been a difficult tas'k on account of
the scattered condition of the meager
material at hand. Historians are not
supposed to be poets with cultivated
imaginations, and it has been very dif-
ficult to put in the proper filling to
make the book symmetrical. All has
been done that is reasonable, to gather
and arrange the material, and the re-
sult is hereby presented to those who
will appreciate the personality of the
people of whom your committee writes
so inadequately. The Committee has
sought by every ordinary means to
avoid mistakes, and will regret the ap-
pearance in these pages of anything
that is not correct, or does not reflect
full credit upon the people, or the
work of the past. For this reason we
have given you as many pictures as we
could, that their dear faces might
speak the message we cannot fully ut-
ter.
"He being dead, yet speaketh."
Historical Committee.
INTRODUCTION
We have an idea that Baptists would
do well to look a little more carefully
to their history. Details of great im-
portance are lost to the future because
at the time they are not thought to
be of importance, or the actors are
too modest, or too indifferent to give
them permanence. Finding that the
oldest, and most important book of
records in our church has been lost,
and most of those who knew anything
of the early days fast passing away, it
seemed best that all the materials that
were available, had better be put in
some permanent form. Details that in
themselves may not seem important
to us just now may be of vast import-
ance later on. It may be when the
history of One Hundred years is
written, that the task of this writing
will show the wisdom of the under-
taking. It is also very important that
the church should look backward
c ^nietimes to see the stages through
which God has led it. The opening
chapter takes us back more than one
hundred years. The next three chap-
', ters cover a period of nearly a quarter
- of a century each. The rest of the
. <fl book is arranged as nearly in natural
~r order as possible. Pictures have been
freely used because we had so many,
and some others were easily obtain-
able. It has been impossible to give
pictures of any more pastors, or con-
stituent members.
The book is not printed to make
any more money than the cost of
printing, and advertising, and other
necessary expense, which has been re-
duced to a minimum by the pastor
giving his time to arrange the pages,
and adjust the cuts, etc. The Histor-
ical Committee has done all its work
as a service of love and hence saved
much expense. Most of the parties
for whom new cuts were made, paid
for them themselves, thus saving ex-
tra expense. If the book appeals to
you it would be a happy thing if you
would mention it favorably to others
who will buy, and thus save the Com-
mittee any personal debt. No church
debt is to be incurred by this history
and it need not interfere with any de-
partment of giving. In the hope that
it may serve the purposes for which
it was intended, and lead many to
think more of their church, and be
willing to do more for it, this book is
introduced to its readers.
L. A. McLean, Chairman.
Rev. G. M. Shott, Secretary.
Mrs. Melissa Carson.
Mrs. Margaret Walker.
Mrs. R. A. Webber.
N. A. Riley.
L. A. M'LEANMEMORIAL.
"THUS IT BECOMETH US TO FULFILL ALL RIGHTEOUSNESS."
"Therefore, we are buried with him by baptism into death: That like as
Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we also
should walk in newness of life."
"The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us, (not
the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience
toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ,"
CHAPTER I.
ABORIGINAL HISTORY
"Look now abroad! Another race has filled
Those populous borders wide the wood recedes,
And towns shoot up. and fertile realms are tilled;
The land is full of harvest and green meads."
Twenty-two years before Illinois
became a state, and was admitted into
the Union, Elder David Badgley or-
ganized a Baptist Church at New De-
sign Monroe County, on the 29th day
of February, 1796, with 28 members.
This was the first evangelical church
organized in Illinois territory.
Greed for gold, led the Spanish to
discover, and religious enthusiasm led
the French to settle the Mississippi
valley. George Rogers Clark went to
Virginia, and presented plans for the
occupancy of Illinois by Americans,
to Patrick Henry, Governor of the
state. Illinois was then under the
jurisdiction of Virginia. Clark receiv-
ed his instructions in January, 1778,
and in February set out for Pittsburgh.
He gathered four companies of men,
and captured Kaskaskia without shed-
ding a drop of blood. This signal vic-
tory owed its bloodless triumph to the
fact that the people of Illinois County
had a wholesome dread of the Virgin-
ians, whom they called "long knives."
October, 1778, the Virginia assembly
called this territory the County of Illi-
nois. Since that date five large states
have been formed out of this county.
For some time the contentions of Brit-
ish, French, and Virginians made the
administration of government very
difficult. The seat of government was
at Marietta, Ohio. In 1800 the Terri-
tory of Indiana of which Illinois was a
part, was formed with the seat of gov-
ernment at Vincennes. In 1809 the
Territory of Illinois was constituted
with the seat of government at Kas-
kasia. In 1818 Illinois was received as
a sovereign state into the union. It
was stipulated that Vandalia was to be
the Capitol for 20 years, after which
Springfield was phosen as Capitol.
The aboriginees of this land rapidly
perished before the march of civiliza-
tion.
There are evident signs that one, if
not two or more peoples, lived, and
loved, and died on this rich soil before
the Indians, whom it is customary to
regard as first. And yet these remote
peoples lived such a simple life that
no art works, or implements, are left
to us except the most primitive sort,
to tell of their degree of advancement
in the scale of civilization. They
used only stone implements, which in
the manufacture, required infinite pa-
tience, These early occupants of the
soil despised labor, and imposed it as
a degradation upon their women. In-
dian corn and tobacco are all of their
contributions to the world progress.
The Pottawotamies and Kickapoos
roamed these great prairies and many
of their representatives were still
scattered through this county at the
time of the beginning of churches and
schools. A$ late as 1832 Indian corn
mills could be found among the hazel
brush around the court house square.
"Old Soldier" Shemanger, a Pottawot-
tamie chief, claimed this location as
his birthplace, and said he loved the
spot, and hated to leave it. Amos
Johnson, who remembered encamp-
ments of Red Men in 1830, says, "The
braves amused themselves by cutting
mortices with their tomahawks
through two trees that stood near
each other, into which they inserted
the ends of poles laid horizontally,
one above the other at convenient
distances, making a large living lad-
der of great height. Up this ladder
the Indians would climb when the
weather was warm and sultry to catch
the higher breezes, and escape the
annoyances of the mosquitos. He has
seen them comfortably reclining and
asleep in the tops of the trees while
their squaws were engaged below in
domestic duties."
"In the winter of 1852 or 1853 a
company of braves came from the
West through Urbana on their way to
visit the President in Washington.
While stopping here one of their num-
ber sickened and died, and was buried
in the old cemetery of Urbana. His
companions greatly mourned him and
placed at the head of the grave a
board with divers cabalistic signs,
and also a pole which for several
years supported a flag, and other orn-
aments. After committing his body to
the grave his comrades blazed a road
with their tomahawks, from the grave
to the "Bone Yard" branch, to guide
the dead man's thirsty spirit to the
water."
"And we have built our homes upon
Fields where their generations sleep."
The honor of being the first white
settler belongs to Runnel Fielder, who
"squatted" on what was afterwards
known as the Roe farm. He built the
first mill for the grinding of grain
about 1828.
The first minister to hold religious
services in the county was Rev. John
Dunham of the United Brethren
Church. Next to him was Rev.
Mahurim, a 'Baptist, and next to him
Alexander Holbrook, a Methodist ex-
horter who sometimes rode a steer to
his appointments. Among the eccen-
tric ministers of that time was Rev.
Samuel Mapes, who rode on a steer
which was usually ornamented with a
bell. He rode barefoot and carried a
gun." Next to these adventurous pio-
neers came a class with the love of
home, and school, and church, and as
one has said, "the wilderness, and
solitary place was glad for them, and
the desert rejoiced, and blossomed as
the rose." They fought against the
melancholy ravages of malaria, the
pestiferous mosquito, the prairie fly,
and faced and fought the terrible but
sublime prairie fires. They ushered
in that hospitable period when every
"latchstring hung outside," when
every house was an inn, and every loaf
was baked to share.
We, have entered into their hard
earned possessions and will never be
able to repay a tithe of the gratitude
we owe to these sturdy pioneers who
fitted this country for the habitation
of vast multitudes of people. These
were the kind of people of which our
historic church was organized. Many
of their descendants are among us
till this day, and names familiar to
the traders and trappers at Runnel
Fielder's store are among our most
familiar names, while we plan our
seventy-fifth anniversary.
CHAPTER II.
ORIGINAL HISTORY
It is to be all made of sighs and tears;
:t is to be all made of faith, and service;
It is to be all made of fantasy
All made of passion, and all made of wishes:
All adoration, duty, and observance;
All humbleness, patience and impatience;
All purity, all trial, all observance."
The First Baptist Church of Ur-
hana, Champaign County, Illinois,
was organized under the preaching of
Elder Isaac Newell. The denomination
has been identified with Champaign
County ever since its organization.
The Rev. Mahurin, a Baptist
preacher, was the first minister to
proclaim the gospel in the county. He
enlisted in the Black Hawk war, and
went as chaplain of a regiment rais-
ed in this part of the state.
Father John G. Robertson, a Baptist
layman, entered land in section 10 in
Urbana township in 1830. He was a
zealous Christian worker, and no
doubt to him is due the credit of sow-
ing the seed which afterwards result-
ed in the present Baptist church. He
is said to have held the first religious
meetings ever held in Urbana after it
became a town. He removed near
Mahomet, where he raised a family
from which descended some of the
best people of that vicinity. In the
records of the old lost book of Minutes
which Brother L. A. McLean took
the precaution to copy many years
ago is the opening statement that
the church was organized in the Old
Court House in Urbana. In a copy of
the Champaign County Herald of Au-
gust 22nd, 1888, it stated that the
church was organized in the house, or
in the grove of Samuel Brumley,
about one mile and a half east of town.
Of this, however, we are assured that
the date is right and the names of
the constituents correct.
Rev. Isaac Newell was a missionary
sent out to Central Illinois by our
Am. Bap. H. M. So.
Elder Newell has a record for much
work as a missionary of the society.
It was while he was at Bloomington
that he came over, and worked in this
place. In 1832 there were but 131
miles of operative railroads in this
country. Travel was entirely by pri-
vate conveyance.
The Chrisman Church in this Asso-
ciation was organized in 1832, and In-
dianola in 1837. Urbana church was
organized by Elder Isaac Newell, the
third Sunday in September, 1838. In
1839 the County Commissioners order-
ed the County Clerk to convey to the
Baptist church of Urbana a town lot
to be seletced by the Trustees on the
condition that they erect a house of
worship on the same within twelve
months. The financial condition of
the church was such that the offer
was not complied with. Among the
converts of Elder Newell was Mrs.
Malinda Bryant, converted in 1934.
Four years later she united with the
Urbana church, and held her mem-
bership there for many years. She
was born in Shelby County, Kentucky,
in 1812, and came to this county with
her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Bu-
sey, in 1831. She was united in mar-
riage with John Bryant in 1833, about
the time of the organization of this
county, and was the first bride in the
county. She made five horseback
trips to Kentucky to visit the scenes
of her childhood.
The names of the original constitu-
ents of the church are thirteen in
number, as follows:
Matilda Bixler
Samuel Brumley
Lia Brumley
John Brumley
Nancy Cook
David Cox
Phoebe Cox
Ivan Jones
Elizabeth Jones
Eda Porter
James T. Roe
Lillie Roe
Elizabeth Truman
and his wife purchased the farm of
Runnel Fielder and made the first im-
provements in the county. He is
prominently connected with the City
of Urbana, having made four addi-
tions to the town site. Mrs. Roe died
in November, 18CO, and Mr. Roe sur-
vived her until August 23, 18G6, when
Mrs. Matilda Bryant.
Deacon James T. Roe
We are fortunate in having a brief
notice of one of the constituent mem-
bers, Deacon James T. Roe, also a
cut. He was one of the first Deacons
elected in 1839. He and his wife were
constituent members. He was a good
organizer and did much to help in the
organization of the new church. He
was born in Oregon County, New
York, August 4th, 1793. He was unit-
ed in marriage June, 1831, to Lillis
Busey, daughter of Isaac Busey, one
of the pioneers of this county. He
James T. Roe
they were united above. Two sons
survive them, John B. Roe, who resides
in Kansas, and Isaac B., who resides
near this city. All these have long
since been called to their reward, and
history has not been left to give us
the knowledge of their trials, and
successes, when to be a Christian was
not so easy a task as some now think
it is.
Deacon Matthias Rinehart
Deacon Matthias Rhinehart. He
was the first Deacon of the church,
being elected in March, 1839. He
came from Chester Co., Pennsylvania,
to this county, in the fall of 1829, and
bought the farm once owned by A. M.
Fauley in Somers Township. He was
highly respected by the community,
and those who survived him spoke
well of him to the end of their lives.
He was alike a good neighbor, citizen,
and church member. He ably filled
Matthias Rinehart
the office of Deacon for several years.
He died in this County about 1863 at a
good old age.
Matthias Rinehart.
The honor of making the first set-
tlement in Somers County is conceded
to Matthias Rinehart. He came from
Ohio in 1827. He married Elizabeth
March. Mr. Rinehart used to relate
many stories concerning "ye olden
times." He relates that the year 1831
was without a summer. Frost delayed
in the springtime, and returning pre-
maturely in Setpember, destroyed the
crops and a long season of suffering
followed. December, 183G, a deep snow
fell and was followed by a heavy rain,
which was succeeded by a severe
freeze, and many persons who were
not prepared for it froze to death. Two
men named Hildreth and Frame, were
out, and became confused and wander-
ed from their way. They killed their
horses, and Frame entered the body
of his horse for protection against the
cold, but it proved to be his grave,
where he was found frozen to death
by a searching party, and Hildreth lost
Lis toes and fingers from the excessive
cold he endured while wandering
around all night. Mr. Rinehart was
very successful in business, and spent
his closing days in plenty. When he
came to this neighborhood he was a
Dunkard, and there being no church
of his faith near by, he sought, and
gained admission into the Baptist
church, and was one of its earliest
members, and was elected Deacon on
the same night with Deacon J. T. Roe.
March, 1839,. Deacon Rinehart died
in 18G3.
Up till 1850 services were held in
the homes of the members except on
regular preaching days, when the
school house across the road from
Mr. Samuel Brumley's house in Sol
Nox's wood pasture was used. This
school house is known in history as
the place where A. Bruer, the school
master, smoked the scholars out.
In 1850 the church was dismissed
from the McClain Association, and
joined the Bloomfield Association,
August 8, 1851. Urbana having be-
come a good sized town, and the
church having been strengthened by
a number of Baptists moving to the
Brumley's School House
City, it was decided to build a suitable
house of worship.
In November, 1851, John White, Wil-
liam Gill, D. O. Brumley, Colonel Bu-
sey, and James S. Busey, were ap-
pointed as a Building Committee to
superintend the new church building
which was completed and paid for in
1856. At the same time James My-
ers, D. O. Brumley, and T. L. Truman,
were elected trustees of the church.
The ladies who have always contrib-
uted largely to the church, raised
money, and purchased a church bell,
which was the first bell in the coun-
ty, and was hauled here by teams from
the east. Many people who had never
heard a church bell ring, came many
miles to hear this one, which has
tolled the death knell of hundreds,
and called thousands to worship, and
pray during its half century and more
of continuous service. Was it not
sweet and musical still as it called us
to our 75th Anniversary on Septem-
ber 21st? On March 30, 1852, the
church asked the American Baptist
Home Mission Society to assist them
in the support of a pastor, to the ex-
tent of one hundred dollars per year,
which request was granted. May Cth,
1854, the church passed a resolution
thanking the society for their timely
aid, and declared themselves able to
support themselves. This is the only
instance on the church records where
outside aid was asked. In January,
1849, the church had grown to 43, and
May 1st, 1854, it was 72. July 1st,
185G, it was 95. August 15, 1857, it
was 77. August 20th, 1858, it was G9.
From 1848 to 1871 the church scarcely
ever missed a regular church meet-
ing, which was invariably preceded
by a sermon by the pastor. The
church looked after the welfare of
its members regularly, as a sample
resolution will show, that was passed
by the church in their June meeting,
1858, as follows: "Resolved, that any
members who absent themselves for
three successive regular meetings
shall be looked after by a Commit-
tee." This resolution has never been
repealed. The first deacons were
Matthias Rhinehart and James T.
Roe, elected March, 1839. On the
31st of August, 1851, J. P. Ireland was
elected deacon. On the 5th day of
April, 1856, James S. Busey and Wil-
liam Gill were elected deacons. June,
1858, E. S. Packard, J. N. Wilson, and
James Myers were elected to the same
office.
The pastors who served up to this
time were Elders Isaac Newell, Free-
man Smalley, Daniel J. Porter, Rual
Dotson, G. W. Dare, D. S. French,
Taylor, Ira H. Reese, G. M.
Carter, John A. Pool, G. W. Riley and
A. L. Farr. The brethren who had
served as church clerks were David
Cox, James Mjers, T. J. Newport,
Jeptha Truman, David Quick, and A.
J. Allan.
(For length of service, time of
election, for all the above, see table).
We are fortunate in having the
pictures of some of these old worthies,
and the biographies of some, for whom
we regret we have no pictures.
Rev. D. S. French, D.D.
Rev. David S. French was one of
the early pioneer preachers, and serv-
ed the Urbana church as Pastor, from
August to December Gth, 1851. He
was a sound and positive preacher,
and very successful in his ministry.
He preached the gospel in this asso-
ciation, and in Indiana, for nearly
forty years. From a memorandum
made not long before his death we
learn (that ihe had baptised about
1,500 persons. He graduated from
Granville College in 1840. He contin-
ued preaching till his health failed
him, and then went to Brookston, In-
diana, and in company with his son,
Chester C., ably conducted a news-
paper, which was edited by his son
Rev. D. S. French
for many years after the father's
death. In 1877, the degree of Doctor
of Divinity was conferred upon him,
of which he was worthy. Many in
this Association in days that are now
gone remembered him for leading
them to Christ. His works follow
him.
Deacon James Myers
Deacon James Myers. He was cer-
tainly one of the founders of the
church and bore the burdens of its in-
fancy with much patience and faith
and he was permitted to watch its
growth for nearly forty years, and see
the fruits of his toil. It was he who
prevented the splitting of the church
and the organization of a Baptist
church in Champaign instead of Ur-
bana. He was born in Scott county,
Kentucky, February 22, 1813. His pa-
rents moved to Indiana when he was
14 years of age. He came to Urbana
in 1835. He was married to Miss
Anna Cook, and raised a large family.
His wife died. He was married to
Mrs. Julia Chandler in the spring of
1871. He died February 22, 1883. He
was deacon for twenty-five years, a
position which he faithfully filled to
the very last. He was clerk of the
church for eleven years from May,
1844. He was faithful to the services
of the church, never missing a service
if it was possible for him to attend.
He bore his part in every department.
He took an active interest in the
formation of the Centennial Church,
and labored hard in securing funds
Tor the ibuilding. His ^death to|ok
place on his 70th birthday when sur-
rounded by his family. What a meet-
ing that must have been when he
joined those who had gone before.
Deacon James S. Busey
Eeacon Jams S. Busey. Mr. Busey
was another member whose name was
closely associated with the history of
the church, and to whom the church
is indebted more than to any one man
for the church building. He was ap-
pointed in 1851 as a member of the
Building Committee, and was the re-
sponsible member financially of the
Committee. He gave freely of his
time and money, till ITie building was
completed. He was born in Shelby
county, Kentucky, January 24, 1824,
James Myers
8
J. S. Busey
and came to this county in 1846. He
was made a deacon of the church,
April 5th, 1856, and served until 1858,
when he removed to Arbela, Missouri,
where he resided till his death. Janu-
ary 7th, 1888, he had a stroke of
apoplexy, which deprived him of
speech and made it difficult for him to
walk. What sweet memories of work
well done must have comforted his
closing hours.
Deacon William Gill
Deacon William Gill was a man
whose name will always be remem-
bered in connection with the Urbana
Baptist church. His house was ever
open and in the early days he was
the host of the church, and never
better pleased than when his table
was surrounded by his brethren. He
was elected Deacon, April 5th, 1856,
and was ordained soon after, and held
the office till the day of his death. He
officiated in the communion service of
the church only a short time before
William Gill
his death. He also was a member of
the building committee, and was ac-
tive in the erection of the meeting
house. He doubtless made as many
sacrifices for the church as any mem-
ber in it. He was always at his post
of duty, sickness alone seemed to pre-
vent his attendance at the worship,
and services of his church. He was
born in Shelby county, Ky., April 3,
1819. He was married in Franklin
county May 19, 1842, to Miss Elizabeth
Hodges. They lived happily together
for twenty-four years, when God call-
ed Mrs. Gill to be at rest July 17, 186G.
The result of this union was two chil-
dren, Mrs. Mattie Branes of Alpha,
Missouri, and a son who died in in-
fancy. Mr. Gill united with the Bap-
tist church at the age of twenty-one
years, and continued a member until
his death, which took place April 19,
1885. He was recognized by church
and community as a good man. He
came to Urbana in 1850.
9
Deacon Dudley McClain
Dudley McClain
Deacon Dudley McClain was one of
the most efficient and well known
members of the church. He was
elected Deacon, January 2nd, 1870,
and ably filled that important office
until his death, which took place No-
vember 17th, 1880. He was born in
Harrison county, Ky., April 28th, 1817.
He was united in marriage October
19th, 1837, to Miss Rebecca Hannah.
He was converted under the preaching
of his brother-in-law, Elder G. W.
Riley, in 1840, at Bloomfield. He was
elected Deacon when only 28 years of
age. He removed with his family to
Urbana in 1864. He was loyal to his
church, his pastor, and to his breth-
ren, and his counsel was always high-
ly prized. He always had a word of
encouragement for his brethren, and
no weak Christian ever talked with
him without thanking the Lord for
euch Christians as Dudley McClain.
He was a man of few words, but his
face literally glowed with the love
which was within. He stood high in
the community as well as in the
church, and the expression could be
frequently heard that, "if there was
ever a Christian, Dudley McClain is
one." The church deeply felt the
loss when the Ix>rd called him home.
He left surviving him his estimable
wife and son, Judson, and one daugh-
ter, Mrs. Fannie Dicken, who is still
a member of the church and is with
us to celebrate this diamond Anniver-
sary.
Deacon Jackson M. Everett
Deacon Jackson M. Everett was
born in Lewis County, Ky., July 20th,
1820. He was converted when about
twenty-one years of age, and united
with the Baptist church. He came to
Champaign, Illinois, in 1859, and to
Urbana in 18GO. He at once placed
his membership here, where it remain-
ed till his death, which took place
February llth, 1870. He was elected
as Deacon, June 1st, 1860, and served
faithfully the rest of his life. He was
a man of deep conviction on religious
subjects, and was fearless in his ex-
pression of them. He was loyal to
God, his pastor, the church, and the
brethren. The two children for whom
this godly man so earnestly prayed
have found their father's Saviour.
Miss Kate Everett was prominently
connected with the Youths' Christian
Association, which had much to do in
preparing the young people of the
church for the great revival of 1S83.
Rev. Charles T. Everett has done ex-
cellent work in Chicago and elsewhere
in the ministry.
Edward Ater
Edward Ater was born June 6th,
1815, near Clarksburg, Ohio. During
his boyhood his father moved to
Perrysville, Ind., and settled on a
farm. He was married to Miss Lydia
Green at the age of 22. He moved to
Illinois in 1837, in what is now Piatt
County. Thence he moved to Urbana
10
and entered into mercantile pursuits
and helped in the development of the
city and county. He was mayor,
sheriff, judge and commissioner. His
wife died March IGth, 1857, and he
was subsequently married to Miss
Margaret Cramer. In the spring of
1859 he united with the Baptist
church under the late Elder G. W.
Riley. He was an ardent church
member, serving as treasurer and
deacon for many years. He moved
from Urbana to Montk^llo, where
for the last ten years of his life he
was a great sufferer. His summons
came November 8th, 1893. He was
buried with Masonic honors in Mt.
Hope cemetery.
Robert Slater
The Historical Committee is fortu-
nate to have in its possession an
autograph church letter written to the
Bloomfield Association in its meeting
in Paris in 18G3. Robert Slater was
clerk from 1857-18G5. The paper is
yellow with age, but the ink is almost
as perfect as the day it was written.
The letter is a very fine sample of
the kind written for many years. It
is dated carefully, which shows the
accuracy of the habits of the writer,
and it is written with evident care.
The character of the writer shows
through the splendid lines. It is a
pity that it cannot be presented ex-
actly as it is in the original. It is as
follows:
The First Baptist Church of the
City of Urbana to the Bloomfield
Baptist Association when convened
with the church at Paris, sendeth
greeting:
Dear Brethren:
Through the tender mercies of our
Heavenly Father we are once more
permitted to send you our annual
message by our delegates whom we
have chosen to sit with you in coun-
cil, to aid devising the best means
to carry forward the work of our di-
vine Master, whose smiles and bless-
ings we trust will be with you through
all your deliberations.
Dear Brethren:
We feel truly grateful to God for
his blessings bestowed upon us as a
church, during the year that is just
past, and we live in peace, and still
enjoy the labors of our beloved Pas-
tor, G. W. Riley, who ministers faith-
fully to his people in word and doc-
trine. The meetings of the church
are well sustained, our Sabbath
school is well attended, and still
growing in interest, and promises
much good. In conclusion, brethren,
pray for us, and the prosperity of Zion,
and may the united prayers of all
God's people go up to the "God of
Battles" for the success of our armies,
and for the restoration of peace to
our bleeding country." The usual
statistics of membership (see Mem-
bership Table 18G3) are then given,
and some pencil notes which are not.
clear enough to read, and then the
signature, Robert Slater, Church
Clerk.
This letter contains one reference
to the war that was then waging be-
tween the states. Little did these
men then dream of the far-reaching
results of that awful civil strife on
the history of our country and church.
In June, 18GO, the spire of the
church was struck by lightning. There
was a fair prospect for the destruc-
tion of the church, which was noted
by George W. Flynn and J. O. Cun-
ningham, who were passing by. Mr.
Flynn climbed the bell rope, and pull-
ed buckets of water up by the same
means, and saved the building from
destruction.
Elder G. W. Riley
In October, 1858, Elder G. W. Riley
was recalled, and served as pastor
until April 7th, 18G7. From that time
the church rapidly grew in numbers
11
Rev. G. W. Riley
and in strength, and at the end of
his pastorate about 300 persons had
been received by baptism, and 200 by
letter. During the same time about
200 members were dismissed by let-
ter, excluded or died, leaving the
number at his resignation, about 300.
During the next three years the church
was supplied by Rev. S. B. J. Bryant,
and A. L. Seward. During this time
the church suffered greatly from in-
discretions of Rev. S. A. Bryant. The
church vindicated her honor and
standing by excluding Rev. Mr. Bryant,
and a council being called by agree-
ment, the action of the church was
approved, and the Elder was suspend-
ed from the ministry for one year.
The ministry of Elder Seward only
tended to keep up discord in the
church.
This well-known man of God was
born in Clermont County, Ohio, Sep-
tember 2, 1813. He was converted at
Bethel, Ohio, in 1833, and in June,
1833, married Miss Bethire McClain.
Shortly after this he moved with his
parents to Bloomfield, where h was
on November, 183G, licensed to preach,
and August 13th, 1838, he was ordain-
ed by the Bloomfleld church, and be-
came its pastor for one-half time.
January, 1837, he rode horseback to
Upper Alton to pursue study to sup-
plement his inadequate common school
education. Finding the expense too
great for his meager means, he re-
turned home after one month. He was
a cabinet maker, and worked at his
trade, using all leisure moments to
read, and prepare himself for his call-
ing. In the autumn of 1839 he took
his wife in a buggy, and drove to
Granville, Ohio, for the purpose of at-
tending College there, but his people
at Bloomfleld were so persistent he
returned to them after a short time,
and remained 12 years. In a memor-
andum he says he traveled an average
of 1,200 miles per year, and preached
200 sermons per year. He built nine
meeting houses. In 1848 he retained
one service per month a,t Bloomfleld,
and accepted the call to Paris for the
rest of the time, moving to Paris to
live. In 1858 he came to Urbana as
Pastor, and remained eleven years.
Then he moved to Champaign, where
he built their first house of worship,
raising most of the money himself,
and giving largely of his own means.
He returned to Urbana in 1872, re-
mained two years, then went to In-
dianapolis two years, then to Paris
till 1879, then back to Urbana, where
he spent the sunset of his life. His
summons came August 18, 1881.
Over the entire field of the Bloom -
field Association, which he organized,
his influence is still felt, though it is
100 years since he was born, and a
generation since he 'fell on sleep."
He was honored by his brethren with
the office of Moderator, 25 years in all.
He was elected for 15 years consecu-
tively (184G-18G1).
He was also appointed to preach
the Association Sermon on 8 different
occasions. His two sons, N. A. and
12
Ozias, are still with us with prospects
of many years to remain. His noble
wife did not leave the scenes of her
long term of life until her 92nd year.
Your Committee take delight in pre-
senting her picture as it was taken on
her 92nd birthday.
Mrs. Bethire Riley
Mrs. Bethire Riley
The wife of Elder G. W. Riley was
born in Harrison County, Ky., July
23, 1812. At ten years of age she
moved to Clairmont, Ohio, and lived
there till 1833, when she was married
to Elder Riley. They moved to
Paris, Illinois, where he was -Pastor.
In 1859 they came to Urbana. She
was in her 92nd year when her sum-
mons came, and was the oldest mem-
ber in the church. Her" judgment in
church matters was always safe and
good. N. A. and Ozias Riley, her
sons, still survive her. She was a
woman of fine intellect, and kept stor-
ing her mind with useful knowledge
to the very last. Her home was the
stopping place of every traveling
Baptist among the old settlers, in
the olden time. Her later days were
surrounded by every luxury and care,
and yet she often reverted to her
early life in the little old log house,
in which she began building her
home, as her happiest days. Even
these sweet old memories are now
eclipsed by her present "house not
made with hands eternal in the heav-
ens."
CHAPTER III.
MEDIAN HISTORY
"A nameless man amid the crowd
That thronged the daily mart,
L,et fall the words of hope and love.
Unstudied from the heart,
A whisper on the tumult thrown,
A transitory breath,
It raised a brother from the dust.
It saved a soul from death,
O germ! O fount! O word of love!
O thought at random cast!
Ye were but little at the first,
Yet mighty at the last."
o
On February 2nd, 1870, Elder G. W.
Riley was again recalled for a third
time as Pastor, and during his min-
istry the church was harmonized and
united, and a considerable number
added. On the 10th day of November,
1872, Elder D. F. Carnahan was call-
ed as pastor, who did much to build
13
up, and indoctrinate the church in the
fundamental principles of the Bible,
and during his ministration, which
continued until August 30th, 1874,
many souls were added to the church.
The church parted with Elder Carna-
han and his estimable wife with great
regret.
Rev. D. F. Carnahan
The Historic Committee delights to
le able to perpetuate his memory and
present his genial face to the church
of coming generations.
Rev. D. F. Carnahan
Born in Pennsylvania in 1825 and
buried from his home in Champaign,
111., Sept. 16th, 1894, on his 69th birth-
day. Such is the beginning and end-
ing of one of God's noblest men. He
began his work as a teacher. He was
baptized March 14, 1847, at Whitehall,
Pa. He was licensed in 1849 and or-
dained Sept. 25th, 1852, at Bridge-
port, Pa. He began with 15 members,
and in a short period left 135 mem-
bers, and in 1856 went to Calvary
Baptist church, Philadelphia, Pa., No-
vember, 1856 he went to Ohio, and for
three years was agent of the Ohio
Baptist convention. In 1859 he be-
came pastor at Zanesville, Ohio. He
then entered military service, became
major of the 79th Ohio Vol. Inf., and
saw some active service. A part of
this time he was in command of his
regiment. He entered the army hop-
ing to be able to do a good service
by preaching to the soldiers, but his
expectations were not realized and he
resigned. Dayton, Ohio; Burlington,
Iowa, and Aurora, 111., enjoyed his la-
bors as pastor. He was Superintend-
ent of Missions in Illinois (1868).
Springfield, Urbana, Nov. 10, 1872-
Aug. 30, 1874, Dixon, Streator, Illi-
nois and Appleton, Wis., were also
blessed by his labors among them.
In 1887 he began what proved to be
his last labor of love and service. He
engaged in the work of the "Chil-
dren's Home Society," helping to
bring "childless homes, and home-
less children together." In connec-
tion with this work he made over
2,500 addresses, often making five, or
six on a Cunday. He was a peace-
maker in all the churches with a pe-
culiar aptness to harmonize conflict-
ing elements.
His last illness was for fourteen
long, painful months, during which
for a part of the time his sufferings
were acute. His faith was uncloud-
ed, his resignation was unmurmur-
ing. In a private letter to a friend
soon after beginning the work of the
Children's Home, he says, "I never
missed preaching but three times in
35 years on account of sickness. I
have been favored with excellent
health. Life has had but few trials.
My brethren have showed me from the
beginning, especial honors, really
more than I deserve, and my heart
clings to them with very tender
Christian love. I am ready when the
Master calls, and most gladly would I
welcome his coming for his saints."
14
I would that thus when I shall see
The hour of death draws near to me,
Hope, blossoming within my heart,
May look to heaven as I depart."
Rev. W. H. Stedman, D.D.
Rev. W. H. Stedman, D.D.
February 10th, 1875, Rev. W. H.
Stedman was called as pastor, and
began bis work by developing the
energies of the church, and by mak-
ing out a list of all available active
members, which scarcely reached
one hundred, regarding these as the
cbnrch, and relying on the power of
Pod, he went forward in the work, and
God owned, and blessed their united
efforts in the salvation of many souls.
Up to the fall of 1878 one hundred
and ninety were added to the church.
One hundred and thirty by baptism,
and sixty by letter. The strong point
In his ministry was the indoctrination
of the members in Bible teaching,
with a view to practical work. L. A.
McLean, Ozias Riley, Allen McClain,
William Hawker, and others went to
Centennial, Blackberry, Somers, Lev-
erett and Star school houses, and con-
ducted services. The services in the
Centennial school house resulted In the
year 187G in what is now known as
the Centennial church. At the Star
school house more or less regular ser-
vices were held, and some valuable
accessions came from that work into
the First Church. In 1878 Elder Sted-
man, aby assisted by Deacon Allen
McClain, held a meeting in the Cen-
tennial school house, when about GO
were united to the church, nearly all
by baptism. During the winter of
1879 the school house was closed
against the brethren, and Rev. Sted-
man. Deacon Myers, F. P. Apperson,
Deacon Allen McClain. and others, at
once set to work and succeded in
building and paying for a comfortable
church building, capable of holding
about three hundred. Deacon Allan
McClain took charge of this work, and
under his administration several re-
vivals were held, and a large number
were added to the church. On the
5th day of February, 187G, he was v
elected Deacon, and the Lord blesse 1
him in his office as Deacon, and also
gave him power to preach the gospel.
In the home church the congregations
grew too large for the seating ca-
pacity of the house, and in 187G a
vestry was added to the meeting
house, costing about $850, which add-
ed greatly to the convenience of the
church, and Sunday school. Elder
Stedman has through the church ap-
pointed Missionary Committees who
do the collecting, saving the expense
of representatives of the different so
cieties visiting the church. Tract and
Visiting Committees have been ap
pointed, and the energies of the
church being thus developed souls
were saved and much good done.
On January 8th, 1879, a committee
consisting of Amanda M. Allen, Mrs.
CJlasgo, and Mary L. Perry reported
that they had visited 123 places and
distributed 143 tracts. March 15th,
1879, twenty-three were present at
the prayer meeting and nearly all par-
ticipated in the Covenant Services. At
15
that meeting a day of fasting and
prayer was recommended, and a com-
mittee appointed to see every member.
April 5th, 1879, the Tract Committee
reported 90 places visited, and 252
tracts distributed. This committee
also reported the salvation of some
souls as a result of their Tract work.
September 3rd, 1880, a member was
excluded for two reasons (1) presist-
ent failure to keep her covenant, and
(2) keeping company with depraved
characters.
February 4th, 1881, the salary of
pastor was increased to one thousand
dollars per year. April 1st, 1881, a
committee reported active members,
234; delinquent, 1C; non-resident,
45; total, 295. July 7th, 1881, the
Lords' Supper was observed in the
evening. March 5th, 1882, Elder Sted-
man resigned and the church accepted
the resignation. His resignation was
greatly regretted by the church, and
the whole community. He has re-
mained in the state, holding important
pastorates, and is a frequent, and wel-
corr.e visitor at the old First church,
and he is now a citizen among us, and
will have a part in the observance of
our Seventy-fifth Anniversary.
In 18G7, while a student at Shurt-
leff College, Elder Steadman began
to develop his building specialty, by
organizing the First Baptist church of
Shelbyville, 111., and in 18G9 building
their present meeting hcuse. While in
Detroit, Mich., his church establish-
ed two mission Sunday schools, each
soon becoming an independent Bap-
tist church, and each was provided
with good, substantial buildings.
While he was pastor the home church
secured its present site on Grand
River avenue, and erected its splen-
did house. February 10, 1875, he was
called to the pastorate of the First
Baptist church of Urbana, 111. In
connection with his work here he
built the Centennial Meeting house in
1879, and added a large vestry to the
building of the First Church. In 1894
he became pastor of the First Bap-
tist church of Champaign, 111., and
while there built their present splen-
did house of worship, and also the
parsonage. After leaving Champaign
he organized the Villa Grove church,
and built its meeting house, and at
Arcola, and Arthur he built substan-
tial churches, and paid for them. In
the year 1885 Shurtleff College con-
ferred upon him the honorary title of
Doctor of Divinity. His old friends
in and around Urbana, and Cham-
paign, delight to do him honor, and
are ever interested to hear him, when
he is present in any of the churches.
He has never lost his interest in Cen-
tennial, and the other Missions of his
ministry. The Historical Committee
will anticipate the program of our
15th Anniversary to record that Dr.
W. H. Steadman will have a large and
prominent share in its exercises. What
a joy it must be to him to stand by
the side of the road, and 'see the old
procession file slowly out, and the ne^v
file hurriedly in, to take the reins and
direct the affairs of the church in
which he has put so much red blood,
and careful teaching, and prayers.
May he not be called away till a new
and better day than any of us have
ever seen, dawns on the old church,
and her great and scattered member-
ship. Dr. Steadman has been honored
by his brethren of the Bloomfield As-
sociation, preaching its annual sermon
in 1876 and 1897. He was elected
moderator in 1878, 1879. 1881, 1903 to
19] 1. He also saw considerable ser-
vice in the civil war.
Rev. G. M. Shott
Sunday, April Gth, 1882, the church
voted a unanimous call to Rev. G. M.
Shott of Newport, Ky., to become pas-
tor for one year, dating from May 1st
at a salary of $800 and parsonage.
Elder Shott was young and inexperi-
16
Rev. G. M. Shott
euced, and delicate in health. He was
an eloquent speaker possessed of
more than ordinary push, and enter-
prise, and soon had the church crowd-
ed at each service. He was an earn-
est worker, his sermons were filled
with love, as well as the gospel, which
awakened sinners, and made it ex-
ceedingly uncomfortaDle for the easy-
going class of Christians. The result
was that the hand of the Lord was
soon visible, and a revival of his work
was begun, and a largo number add-
ed to the church. The members be-
came wide-awake, and active in
church work, and by discipline brought
the standards to a very high pitch.
August 2nd. 1882. a proposition was
made by the Pastor to remodel the
church, and on December 4, '82, the
cost was reported at $385.71. August
30th, 1882, a motion was carried to
commune once per month. September
27th, 1882. John Carman was licensed
to preach the gospel and preached
his first sermon. About the same
time Augustus Carman returned f r om
Rochester, and preached his first ser-
mon. December 4th, 1882, a commit-
tee was appointed to raise the salary
of the pastor. Twenty persons consti-
tuted that Committee, and pledged
themselves to give, or raise $30.00
apiece.
The salary was raised to $1,000 be-
ginning with January 1, 1883. Jan-
uary 7th, 1883, a special meeting was
begun, the pastor doing most of the
preaching. Rev. R. E. Carney o f To-
lono, an old college mate of the p3&l r >
was called in to help during the most
exacting part of the meeting. This
meeting continued with two, and three
meetings per day, until April ICth,
1883. February 15th, the pastor was
given power to appoint committees to
aid in the examination, and indoc-
trination of candidates i'or bantisrn
Nearly four hundred persons (includ-
ing duplications) were used during
the meetings, with a powerful reflex
benefit to the whole church. OI
course, the deacons and some of their
v.ives were in almost all the commit-
tee meetings, el 'aeon Knowlton of
the .Champaign church was frequent-
ly in the services, aa i was asked to
give his counsel, and heio in this work.
During this period 158 professed a
hope in Christ, and all united with the
church by baptism. A few not count-
ed in the above made profession and
united elsewhere. Most of these con-
verts were carefully taught before
they were brought into the church. A
special fund was provided to purchase
Keat's catechism for converts. June
27th, 1883 the "Star Book" was adopt-
ed as the Manual of the church. There
has never been a change made in the
Manual. Resolutions have been pass-
ed which clearly set forth the same
principles though couched in different
phrase. The Manual seems to have
teen forgotten during many long per-
iods of the life of the church. June
13th, 1883, it was learned that the
Ranton 1 church, which hart invited tte
17
Bloomfield Association to meet with
them could not entertain it, and the
Urbana Church immediately sent an
invitation to meet with them. Some
new features were introduced in this
meeting and will be noted at the
proper place.
By action of the church August 22nd
a corrected list of members was print-
ed, and sent out to all members.
October 3rd, 18S3, a committee was
appointed to devise a systematic plan
for meeting the expense of the coming
year, and when it reported November
28th, the third point in their recom-
mendations read, "the Pastor's salary
shall be advanced in proportion to the
increase of membership, and subscrip-
tion, by reason of revival, or other-
wise. "Their eighth point reads
"The Treasurer shall keep an accur-
ate account with each member sub-
scribing, and shall on tbe first of each
quarter send a statement to all who
are in arrearage." The ninth point
reads, "We recommend the plan of
weekly payments as far as possible."
The tenth reads, "Every member of
the church shall be expetced to make a
subscription." January 2nd, 1884, it
was significant of the times that we
should find a young brother rising in
the Covenant Meeting, and making a
statement to the effect that "a short
time since he had allowed himself to
yieM to his temper and was sorry that
by so doing he had brought reproach
upon the church." On motion he was
restored to full fellowship, and the
confidence of the brethren. In the
same meeting another well-known
brother offered a written confession of
considerable length detailing his mis-
doings and asking the church for for-
giveness. He also was restored to
full fellowship and confidence by a
special vote. A third person made
similar statements, and was restored.
February 6th, 1884, a young sister con-
fessed her sorrow on account of at-
tendance, and participation in a dance.
The church by motion accepted her
confession, and restored her to fel-
lowship in the church. At that meet-
ing differences of opinion in the
church were very frankly confessed as
shown by a ballot which had to be
taken the sixth time before a full
Board of Deacons could be elected.
When the full complement was
elected the Pastor gave the hand of
fellowship to the new Board. March
5th, 1884, the principle of taking an
offering at each Communion service
was established. May 7th, 1884, the
Communion service was changed back
to once in two months.
May 22nd, Rev. G. M. Shott offered
his resignation, giving as his reasons
the sickness of Mrs. Shott and the
two children. During his Pastorate
1G5 were baptized, 33 taken in by let-
ter and experience, leaving the roll
378. Much of his work was done
among the young people, who were
receiving a good training in Bible
study through the work of the Y. C. A.
established by John Carman, and the
excellent work of Elder Steadman.
However, the average age of the con-
verts of Elder Shott's ministry was
23 years. Many thought he ought to
stay longer, and take care of this
large body of young members. He
removed to Wheeling, W. Va., where
for some time the health of Mrs. Shott
and the children was improved.
Mrs. Shott never completely recov-
ered from the malarial effects of this
climate, which gave rheumatism, and
heart trouble, from which after eight
years of invalidism she went to her
reward, October 31st, 1891, loved and
honored by all who ever knew her.
Three daughters survive her and one
went ahead to welcome her home.
The last service of the ministry of
Elder Shott was the ordination of Dea-
cons S. S. Hall, G. A. Walker, N.. A.
Riiey, F. M. Snyder, J. W. Cushman,
and J. P. Blue. The ordaining prayer
was offered by Elder S. F. Gleason,
18
the charge to the deacons by Elder
R. B. Carney, the charge to the church
by Elder G. M. Shott. The service of
laying on of the hands of the presby-
tery was very impressive and left a
higher ideal of Deaconship. At the
close of this service accompanied by
many of the congregation Elder Shott
and family took tte train for the
scenes of their labors in the "Little
Mountain State," little thinking that
after a period of nearly thirty years
he would return to take up his un-
finished work.
He was born in Staunton, Virginia,
and received his first impression of a
religious character from the Episco-
palians. His family were all Baptists
with few exceptions. Later, he was
greatly influenced by Rev. G. B. Tay-
lor, D.D., the great Batpist mission-
ary to Rome. He took his high school
course in Staunton. Baptized January
2nd, 1874. Licensed to preach, Sep-
tember 13th, 1875. Attended college
at Richmond, Va. Preached his first
sermon in Staunton, July 23rd, 1876.
Studied theology in the Southern Bap-
tist Thelogfaal Seminary at Louisville,
Ky., under the famous Dr. Broadus,
Dr. Boyce, Dr. Toy, Dr. Whitsitt.
While a student in the Seminary he
was employed as city missionary in
Louisville, where was organized the
first Sunday Schools that have now
become such a net work of missions,
and churches. His first pastorate
was a brief one on the banks of the
Ohio at Hawesvil'e, Ky. This church
asked for his ordination, which was
held in the Walnut Street Baptist
Church in Louisville, Ky. July 31st,
1876, he was married to Miss Kate J.
Knight of Louisville, Ky. From
Hawesville he was soon called to be-
come (he pastor of the First Church of
Newport, Ky. From Newport, Ky., he
came to Urbana. From Urbana he
went to Wheeling, W. Va. At Hawes-
ville he held a great revival meeting
greatly strengthening the old church.
At Newport he secured a new and
commodious church building in the
center of the town, where it still re-
mains. A new parsonage and free-
dom from state convention support.
The chief thing done here in Urbana
was to lead in a great revival. At
Wheeling a heavy debt was paid. At
First Church, Zanesville, the. church
was thoroughly repaired and renovat-
ed. At Dayton street, Cincinnati, O.,
a new church was organized and
made independent. At Madisonvil!e
the church house burned, and a new
fireproof house was built. From Mad-
isonville he was called to Fairmount,
W. Va., to undertake the task of or-
ganizing a new local church, and
building its edifice. This was accom-
plished in less than three years. Much
of the house was built by his own
hands. Scarcely had the Fairmont
work been launched when a flattering
call came from North Church, New
York City, where he had wide experi-
ences in preaching and lecturing in
almost all the great churches of the
city ,and many of the noted churches
in New England. He left as his me-
morial in the North Church an en-
dowment that ensures a church there
forever. Thence to the Old Historic
Scotch Plains church, where he had
his longest, and most tedious Pastor-
ate. It was an endowed church with
great wealth, and a small membership
with limited population. From this
church he was called to Lyons Farms
Church, Newark, N. J.. a daughter of
Scotch Plains, where he held a very
successful revival, removed the old
church building, and erected a new one
of splendid dimensions, doing much of
the work with his own hands. A break
down of nerves, and a siege of chills
drove him back to the mountains of
West Virginia, to Mannington, where
in a few months his usual powers of
endurance were recovered, and he
held meetings in his own, and many
neighboring churches with great ac-
19
ceptance and in most cases success.
Oakmont, Pa., made him a flattering
offer ,and after considering it for a
few weeks, he accepted a call, and was
succeeding admirably, having paid off
all debts and led in a great neighbor-
hood revival of very wide influence
and power when he was recalled to
Urbana, August, 1912. The last ser-
vice at Oakmont was the burning of
the last notes, and mortgages and the
freeing of the church from debt for
the first time in its history. He will
observe his 37th ministerial anniver-
sary July 23. He has preached 5,406
sermons, and written much for the
press. June, 1913, Ewing College con-
ferred the honorory degree of Doctor
of Divinity. L. A. McLean.
Deacon G. A. Walker
George A. Walker
This woll-known and highly re-
spected citizen was born of Scotch-
Irish parents in Deering, New Hamp-
shire, December 13, 1832. Early in
life he came with his parents to Tre-
mont, Illinois, where he spent his
early years. He had a common school
and academic education, but the
death of his father threw the care of
the family upon him at a very early
age, and his further improvement of
mind must be done on his own re-
sources. He always found time to
read, and store his active mind with
useful knowledge. He knew his Bi-
ble well, and became a very accurate
and helpful teacher, and many are
teaching now who had their first les-
sons from him. He was married to
Miss Experience Drake of Delavan,
Illinois, in 1868. She was a true and
devoted helpmeet of deep piety and
unselfish life. She died July 19th,
1884. He married Miss Margaret J.
Porter of Urbana, June 9th, 1897. He
was a man of unusual balance, and
had a strong capacity for enduring
friendships. In his public career he
valued his trusteeship of public funds
as a sacred trust. He was a great
lover of his church, and was an hon-
ored Deacon for many years. In 1871
he moved to his farm south of Ur-
bana, where he lived till July 12th,
1910, when he moved to his magnifi-
cent High street house, expecting to
have time for a larger usefulness to
his church. July 18, he was stricken
with paralysis, and the death angel
hovered till he was released Novem-
ber 7th, 1910. His widow still sur-
vives him, and is a member of this
Historical Committee seeking in the
sunset glow to honor his memory,
and that of many others, whom she
has known and loved in the long ago.
"Think of me as withdrawn into the
dimness,
Yours still you mine, remember all
the best
Of our past moments, forget the rest,
And so to where I wait, come gently
on. ;>
20
Rev. E. C. Sage, Ph.D.
June 15th, 1884, a formal call was
extended to Rev. B. C. Sage of Geneseo
Falls, Illinois, to become Pastor. July
9th we find Elder Sage presiding as
moderator of the meeting for busi-
ness. June 14th, 1885, a meeting was
held at the Centennial Mission for
the purpose of organizing a separate
church. August 2nd, a council for
recognition was called to recognize
the Centennial Baptist church. Au-
gust 9th, 1885, the Trustees were au-
thorized to deed the property to the
Trustees of the Centennial Church.
This motion was rescinded January
4th, 1886. December Gth, 1885, the fi-
nances, both on Pastor's salary, and
incidentals, were found in a deplor-
able condition, and a motion was pass-
ed recommending that an apportion-
ment be made to each member sub-
ject to his, or her approval. January
13th, 1886, the Finance Committee re-
instruced to proceed according to
their own judgment. April 4th, 1886,
it was determined to observe the or-
dinance of the Lord's Supper once
per month, instead of quarterly. Mon-
day, April 5th, 1886, Pastor Sage made
a report of work done, which it is
good should be reported in part." A
large number will ever look back to
this winter as the date of their birth
into the kingdom of Christ. Family
altars that had been broken down,
have been repaired, and many hearts
and homes made bright by Him who
is the Light of the world. While
these things give us joy our hearts
are saddened by the continued apathy
of not a few. The habitual absence
of strong men and women living but
a few blocks from the church sitting
at home within the sound of the bell,
and apparently unconcerned for the
salvation of dying souls around them
these things cause sadness of
heart." At the close of this excel-
lent report Elder Sage reports the to-
tal membership of the church to be
357. July 5th, 1886, the motion con-
cerning the observance of the Lord's
Supper was rescinded and its quar-
-terly observance recommended. Sep-
tember 29th, 1886, Pastor Sage pre-
sented his resignation to take effect
December 31st, 1886. Elder Sage was
an earnest Christian man, a good
speaker, and labored faithfully in the
Master's cause. He was a man of fine
scholarship, and an expert Hebrew
student. When he resigned it was to
take a position in President Harper's
School of Hebrew, and to take a post
graduate course in Yale College, New
Haven. During his pastorate 56 were
added to the church. This left the
number of church enrollment at the
close of his work, 355.
My Dear Mr. Shott:
Your letter of June 20th has just
now reached my hand, and I hasten to
reply. I regret that it will be imprac-
ticab'e for me to comply with your
request for an extended review of my
pastoral experiences. Mrs. Sage and
I start for Europe tomorrow, and the
few hours which remain before sailing
must be given to peparation for our
long journey.
At the time of my pastorate in Ur-
bana there was in the church a large
body of strong, mature, and influen-
tial men and women, whose devotion
to the Christian cause through many
years had made the church what it
was, and whose consecrated services
resulted in its permanence and
growth. I cannot speak too highly of
their noble lives. Many of the chil-
dren of those influential families have
developed into like-minded, and effi-
cient Christian workers, and are now
holding important positions in the
business and educational world.
Mrs. Sage and I have pleasant rec-
ollections of the cordial reception giv-
en to us in the homes in and about
the city, making our pastoral visits a
21
constant joy and a sweet remem-
brance.
Our relation to the other Christian
churches of the city and community
was most cordial. In my long experi-
ence I do not know of any place
where I have lived in which the spir-
it of co-operation has been more de-
lightfully manifest than in Urbana at
the time of our residence there.
I wish you would convey to the
Committee in whose 'behalf you have
written .and also to the entire church
membership the cordial greetings of
Mrs. Sage and myself and extend to
them our sincere wishes for the con-
tinued usefulness of the church to the
community and to the greater world.
Very truly yours,
E. C. SAGE.
Dr. Sage is abroad, and it is im-
possible to get a cut.
December 1, 188G, a letter was
granted to Burritt A. Cushman to the
North Baptist Church, New York
City. It was through him that Rev.
G. M. Shott was introduced to the
North Church, and was at once called
to take charge of that old historic
church. During his stay in and around
New York he was secretary of the
Baptist Ministers' Conference of New
York City for twelve consecutive
years, and became well-known
throughout the denomination as well
as in New York. B. A. Cushman was
in the Y. C. Association when Elder
Shott was Pastor of Urbana. What
influences one exerts is never known,
and may not be known till it is seen
in the undimmed light of the glory-
land. If the endowment of that great
old church during the Pastorate of
Elder Shott is of any special value to
the kingdom of our Lord it must be
shared with B. A. Cushman in the
final reckoning, and also with this
church.
Rev. F. J. Leavitt
June 1st, 1887, a call was extended
to Rev. F. J. Leavitt of Plattsburgh,
Mo., to become Pastor. He accepted
August 1st, 1887. Elder Leavitt was
an earnest and interesting speaker,
evidencing the truth of his teachings
by his daily life, and possessed the
unanimous esteem of the church, and
community. The church by judicious
discipline reduced the number of its
members about 50, leaving the mem-
bership 298, although the active work-
ing membership would not exceed 175.
May 4th, '89, Pastor Leavitt resigned.
June 5th, 1889, the Advisory Commit-
tee requested the Pastor to withdraw
his resignation. June 19th, 1889, the
resignation of Pastor Leavitt was ac-
cepted.
Rev. F. J. Leavitt writes from Leav-
enworth, Kansas, where he is State
Prison Chaplin: "So many years
have gone by since I left your city
that it is difficult to recall my experi-
ence with the church as I would like.
My pastorate there began in August,
1887, and continued two years. The
church was united, hopeful, enthus-
iastic; the membership large, com-
posed of many excellent people. The
pastor's leadership was recognized and
a disposition to follow him shown.
The Sunday services brought out good
congregations, generally speaking.
The teaching service, or Sunday
School was in the" hands of good offi-
cers, and faithful teachers. The
teachers' meetings were the best I
have seen anywhere. Quite a goodly
number attended the prayer meetings,
several usually taking part. The
young people were loyal to the pastor,
and church.
The first year saw progress, several
leing added to the church. A meeting
developing considerable interest was
held either the first or second year,
which resulted in several additions to
the church, mostly young people. I
was assisted in that meeting by Rev.
William Bilbro, then of Missouri.
My brief stay with that people was
in the main very pleasant, and I al-
ways read with much interest any-
thing I see concerning the church.
The body of our little boy lies in the
cemetery there, and this makes Ur-
bana very dear to us.
Sincerely yours,
F. J. Leavitt.
CHAPTER IV.
PRESENT HISTORY
" Not enjoyment and not sorrow,
Is our destined end or way,
But to act. that each tomorrow
Find us farther than today.
Act act in the living: present!
Heart within and God o'er head."
Rev. W. W. Smith
August 28th, 1889, a call was extend-
ed to Rev. W. W. Smith to become
Pastor. He accepted the call. Decem-
ber 4th, 1890, revival services were
begun by Evangelist Dillard, and con-
tinued till the 19th of same month.
February 25th, 1891, a resolution was
passed in reference to some humiliat-
ing trials to which the Pastor had
been subjected. "Whereas, Our be-
loved Pastor, Rev. W. W. Smith, has
recently become the victim of ma-
licious slander at the instigation of
, who on the 23rd day of Jan-
uary, 1891, was dismissed from the
church for violation of her covenant
obligations, and Whereas, he has
been compelled to take his place as
defendant during a most critical in-
vestigation of the charges preferred
against him, and from which he
emerged without a stain upon his
character as a gentleman, and Chris-
tian; therefore, be it Resolved; that
the First Baptist Church of Urbana re-
gard this persecution of its Pastor as
a tissue of falsehoods from beginning
to end, emanating only from a vile,
revengeful heart, having but one
thought, viz., seeking to bring re-
proach upon the Pastor, the church,
and the cause of Christ. Resolved; that
this church holds in utter contempt
this proceeding against Mr. Smith,
and heartily join with the Court, and
the public at large in his thorough
vindication. Resolved, that we will
stand by our Pastor as a church and
give him a hearty and united support
in his Christian work." These reso-
lutions were unanimously adopted by
a rising vote.
23
June 3rd, 1891, Pastor Smith resign-
ed, and his resignation was accepted.
Wednesday, August 12th, 1891, Elder
C>. M. Shott, a former Pastor, being
on a visit, was asked to administer
the ordinance of Baptism, which he
did for Brother Charles Mullendorf.
Rev. J. W. Primm
November 1st, 1S91, Rev. J. W. Primm
was called as Pastor, and began his
work November 15th, 1891. Decemter
30th, 1891, the Communion was chang-
ed to first Sunday in each quarter.
October 2nd, 1892, Rev. J. W. Primm
resigned in words expressing the
highest type of Christian gentleman
and scholar. Things had entered
into the relations of his work that
had materially affected his work, and
he sincerely thought he ought to sever
his connection as Pastor. His resig-
nation is as fol'ows, "When I came
among yon a few months ago I hoped
for brighter days, but instead the
darkening cloud has grown more
dense, and has now burst in fury upon
me. "The heart knoweth its own bit-
terness," and I would not have you
suffer with me or on my account. For
myself and family I ask your most
earnest prayers. May God grant to
you all, the guidance of his Spirit and
the riches of his grace."
The resignation was accepted, and
the following resolutions passed:
"Whereas, Rev. J. W. Primm has
tendered his resignation as Pastor of
this church to depart for another
field, therefore, be it resolved, that we
recognize in Brother Primm an earn-
est Christian man, and an able Pas-
tor, and that it is with regret that we*
accept his resignation. That we
tender ihim our prayers, and 'best
wishes for abundant success in what-
ever field of labor he may be called."
This honored servant of God was
born in Belleville, November 17, 1848,
He was for some time vice-president
of the Beekeepers' Association, in
which business he was an acknowl-
edgd authority. He was pastor of the
First Baptist church of Urbana for a
short time, and atferwards also of
Herald of Hope for a short time. To-
wards the latter part of 1912 he began
to fail, and slowly yielded to his last
enemy, April 16, 1913, at the age of
G5, having been in the ministry 45
years.
He was scholarly and exact in his
preaching, and an able preacher of
the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Rev. J. F. Mills, Ph.D.
December 18th, 1892, Rev. J. F. Mills
was called to the vacant Pastorate,
and on Decem'ber 1st, in the evening,
we find him at work on the field. Jan-
uary 13th, 1893, an ordaining Council
met to advise in reference to the or-
dination of Brother Mills to the gos-
pel Ministry.
A splendid programme of a very
high order of exercises was carried
24
Rev. J. F. Mills
out with Dr. Galusha Anderson of the
Divinity School of Chicago as examin-
er, who conducted a rigid examina-
tion, and all questions were answered
by Brother Mills in a most satisfactory
way. In the evening when the Ordina-
tion programme was carried out Dr.
Anderson preached the ordaining ser-
mon from the words, "and the com-
mon people heard him gladly." Mat-
thew 12:37.
After the sermon, Dr. Anderson of-
fered the prayer of ordination, while
the hands of the Presbytery were laid
upon the head of the candidate. The
charge to the Pastor was given by
Rev. E. J. Beardsley. The charge to
the church by Rev. R. W. Bell; the
right hand of fellowship by Rev. E. A.
Stone. Benediction by Rev. J. F.
Mills. September 13th, 1893, N. A.
Riley presented, his resignation as
Chorister, (See resolutions), and
nominated George M. Bennett as his
successor. He was elected and leads
the music o fthis Anniversary with
great acceptance to all the people in
the church and in the community. In
November, 1893, beginning the 27th,
special services were led by Rev. Riley
of Fairbury, 111., and J. W. Tanner
of Normal, 111. December 27th, special
meetings closed.
In February, 1885, a motion to take
steps to build a new house of wor-
ship during the present year was
passed, and a committee consisting of
Rev. J. F. Mills, George Bennett, and
M. D. Busey, was appointed to solicit
funds.
This sentiment was brought about
by a very passionate sermon preach-
ed by the Pastor, Rev. J. F. Mills,
from the text "Lengthen thy cords and
strengthen thy stakes." March 21st
the church ordered the committee to
proceed at once. April 3rd, 1895,
shows the following classified report
of amounts pledged to that date:
No.
4
5
1
3
4
2
1
15
2
4
19
3
2
4
55
1
15
17
3
4
42
1
1
1
1
Pledge.
Amount.
$1000.00
$4000.00
500.00
2500.00
350.00
350.00
250.00
750.00
200.00
800.00
150.00 .
300.00
125.00
125.00
100.00
1500.00
75.00
150.00
60.00
240.00
50.00
950.00
40.00
120.00
30.00
60.00
1.00
4.00
$25.00
$1350.00
24.00
24.00
20.00
300.00
15.00
255.00
12.50
37.50
12.00
48.00
10.00
420.00
9.CO
9.60
8.00
8.00
7.00
' 7.00
6.00
6.00
25
45
1
5.00 225.00
2.00 2.00
Grand total $14,541.10
May 8th, 1895, plans were presented
by J. E. Hall for the new house and
were adopted. During the process of
building the Congregation met in the
Universalist meeting house and also
a part of the time in the Hall. Octo-
ber 1st, 1895, an invitation was ex-
tended to the State Convention to
meet here October 14th, 1896. March
8th, the first meeting in the new
church house was held in the Sunday
School room of the new building.
Rev. J. D. Porter was invited to
hold meetings. No record of results
of that meeting are to be found. March
29th, 1896, the new house was dedi-
cated. January 27th, 1897, $2500.00
was borrowed on security of church
property to pay off debts against the
church. September 15th, 1897, a rec-
ommendation of the Beacons was
passed that the entire membership
together with a statement of the sub-
scription of individuals to current ex-
penses, be printed and sent out to
each member. October 29th, at the
Annual Roll Call the membership was
385, of which 222 were present, or
accounted for. Non-residents, 71,
with 15 responses, making a total
membership of 456, with 237 respons-
es. December 1st, 1897, a recom-
mendation was passed that Deacons
and Trustees shall be ineligible to re-
election for one year. August 3rd,
1895, Rev. J. F. Mills resigned to take
place September 1, 1898.
During the fall of 1902, while com-
pleting my work at the Divinity school
of the University of Chicago, I was
led to accept the pastorate of the
First Batpist Church of Urbana, 111.,
agreeing to preach every two weeks
and send supplies in the interim. Held
some special services during the
Christmas holidays and came to Ur-
bana to stay the following June.
There were three factors which led
me to accept this call. First, I saw
that there was a large number of
young people in the families of the
church who had grown up and re-
mained unconverted, here was a great
and a good work to be done; a cur-
sory glance at the old building was
convincing that if much progress was
to be made, a new church would be
necessary soon; I believed it was pos-
sible to greatly enlarge the constitu-
ency of the church. An active evan-
gelistic work during the first ttfree
years brought into the church most of
the young people and many of the
boys and girls of our Baptist families.
This was mainly carried on through
the regular services of the church.
The call to the building movement
came to the pastor with sudden and
convincing revelation. A previous
thoughtful and very earnest confer-
ence with certain church officers had
led us to decide that with so many
new converts to train and feed with
the Word, that it would not be wise
to go forward with the building move-
ment at that time. But God's mes-
sage came to the pastor, "Go For-
ward." He gave this message to the
church. The officers met the follow-
ing evening and said, "Pastor, we do
not eblieve it is possible now, 'but we
do not dare to stand in the way of
such seemingly strong convictions, go
ahead for one month and see what
you can do toward a building fund,
but we cannot consider building un-
less $12,000 is pledged. At the end
of the month the pastor asked for ten
days' extension of time to complete
the canvas, and then reported $16,000
in subscriptions. At once prepara-
tions were made for building.
"The walls were builded because
the people had a mind to give." Many
26
gave to the point of great sacrifice,
for which we devoutly thank God to-
day, for it enabled us to build a
church not only suited to the needs
of that day, but one that wll continue
to be a splendid workshop for many
years to come. Many wondered if we
should ever see that same fervent
evangelistic spirit in the new build-
ing that had characterized the work
of the last three years in the old,
that same spirit was manifestly pres-
ent in the fall of 1897, and during the
first six months of 1898. Then we
were permitted to enlarge the place of
our habitation, to lengthen our cords
ad strengthen our stakes, to gain a
place in the hearts of many new fam-
ilies in the community, for most of
those baptized at this time were from
families not previously connected with
the church. The building movement
was successfully completed without
friction, leaving us in good condition
to go forward with the building of the
greater spiritual temple. The work of
the Ladies' Church Extension Society
deserves to te specially commended,
for they laid the foundation for the
building fund, and helped to create a
growing sentiment which at last en-
abled the church to unanimously unite
in the erection of a new temple of
worship. We were permitted to see
our membership nearly doubled in six
years. J. F. Mills.
Rev. M. L. Rugg, D.D.
October 12th, 1898, Rev. M. L. Rugg
was unanimously called to the Pastor-
ate . March 5th, 1892, after the
Trustees had made their final report
on church building, the church heard
an address from Deacon J. S. Hall on
the church 'building, including the
raising of funds and the planning and
erection of the building.
Professor C. H. Hopkins spoke on
the support of the church as coming
from those who are loyal, and inter-
Rev. M. L. Rugg, D.D.
ested in the welfare of the church.
N. A. Riley spoke of some historical
incidents relating to the church, and
Mrs. J. M. Lewis spoke of the Ladies'
Church Extension Society, and the
fact that this Society has contributed
$2891.00 towards the church building,
and furnishing fund. Brother W. O.
Connor spcke for the Young People,
and Geo. M. Bennett spoke of the
choir, and the need for more hymnals,
and a pipe organ to help the efficiency
of the musical services of the church.
Brother L. A. McLean spoke of the de-
velopment of the church, Brother Fred
C. Hubbard presented the final report
of the Trustees on the Building Fund.
All cancelled papers in connection
with the building were burned, and
the day went down as a red letter day
in the history of the church.
September 4th, 1901, the Building
Committee reported finances as fol-
27
lows: ferent churches from the east to the
Receipts. far west in our country, I have yet to
General subscription $22,254.91 find one in which the personal rela-
Ladies Society 800.00 tionship of pastor and people was more
Memorial Window Fund 790.18 harmonious and cordial. During the
Stanford Hall subscription.... 373.54 six years I served the church as pas-
Ladies' Society, Aug. 10 198.00 tor, extending from November, 1898.
to the last of 1904, I have not record-
Total receipts $24,416.63 ed upon memory's tablet a single in-
Contracts. stance in which unpleasant words or
Paid out to Aug. 1, '01 $23,989.63 actions marred the perfect pastoral re-
Paid on note 400.00 lations.
Interest on note 27.00 To state that there were never dif-
ferences of opinions regarding church
Total paid out $24,416.63 work among so many members of such
Amt. due on subs $1188.00 varied conditions of living and think -
Amt. due on deed 464.50 ing would be to declare a unity of
conclusions impossible among those
Total amount due $1652.50 with such differences of viewpoints.
Bal. of debt 500.00 But though differences might arise.
Leaving a balance of $1152.50 the tie of Christian love bound the
hearts of pastor and people in such
if pledges were paid. unity of purpose in carrying them out
October 12th, 1902, roll call, to that the different pieces became one
which 213 members responded. De- building in the finished work. This
cember 3rd, 1902, a Pipe Organ Com- unity of thought, and purpose, and ac-
mittee was appointed to raise funds ^on was well expressed in the verse
and were given conditions. of tha t hymn we so often sung at
December 21st, 1902, Evangelist communion service: ' Blest be the tie
Tera Smith was invited to assist Pas- that binds our hearts in Christian love,
tor Rugg in holding special meetings The fellowship of kindred minds is
to begin January llth, 1903. October lik e to that above."
19th, 1904, Pastor M. L. Rugg resigned, My Impressions regarding the
to take effect December 1, 1904. church, as already mentioned would in
I send my greetings and best wish- many ways apply to my relationship
es to the First Baptist Church of Ur- to those without. Especially did I find
bana, 111., on this her seventy-fifth an- the fellowship of Christian love in
niversary. I congratulate pastor and those who bear another name. And
people on the blessings which have at- those who worshiped with us in kin-
tended them and made it possible to d re d faith from the university. I knew
celebrate under such pleasant condi- them only a few years, yet I came to
tions this auspicious occasion. look upon many of them, not as guests,
After being in the pastorate over but as members of our church home,
thirty years, I can truthfully say that In with the review of these relation-
the six years I spent as Pastor of the ships are the many social and friendly
Urbana Baptist church count, in every ones with those I met in the business
way, among the most pleasant and and society ways of the city. I can
prosperous of my ministry. After a wish for my successor no more pleas-
personal acquaintance as pastor of dif- ant review than that which rises to
28
my own mind as I write. For such
pleasant relationship in the future as
have marked those of the past is the
wish and prayer of one of the old pas-
tors. M. L. Rugg, D.D.
REV. J. A. BROWN.
Rev. James A. Brown was called to
the Pastorate April 5th, 1905. The
new parsonage, 205 West High street,
was decided upon by the Trustees, and
consented to by Mrs. Busey, to which
she gave $4,000.00, and the church
ordered the Trustees to close the deal
at once, the purchasing price being
$6.800.00. December 6th, 1905, the
Trustees recommended that a Finan-
cial Agent be employed at a salary of
$100.00 per year, and the church
adopted the recommendation, appoint-
ing Miss Anna Webber as the first
and only paid agent. August 15th,
1905, Pastor Brown resigned to take
effect October 31st, 1906. The church
accepted the resignation.
Letter of Rev. J. A. Brown.
There is little to be said about my
short pastorate in the Urbana church.
I was there only one year and six
months. At the beginning of my work
"Mother Busey" gave the money by
which the present fine parsonage was
made possible to the church. The
weekly system of giving to Missions
was introduced, and pushed to such an
extent that there was complaint that
more gave to Missions, than to our
regular church expense. The Sabbath
School was changed from the noon
hour to the morning. We remember
our Urbana friends with tender regard,
and affection. My work at Blooniing-
ton, Indiana, was eminently successful
six years, and my work here in a great
educational center is succeeding ad-
mirably, with every seat taken, and
constant additions to the church. I
will mail you my "cut" whenever you
want it. Yours truly,
Emporia, Kan. James A. Brown.
Rev. Robert Van Meigs
October 24th, 1906. a call was ex-
tended to Rev. R. V. Meigs to the pas-
torate of the church. Only a few had
heard him, or seen him. After lengthy
specifications had been presented by
him, and accepted by the church, he
29
was installed as pastor. November 7th,
190G, 28 names were dropped from the
roll for delinquency. June 5th, 1907,
the church was the recipient of an
Individual Communion set from Sisters
S. H. Busey and Augusta Morgan. A
vote of thanks was extended to them
for this thoughtful gift. October Gth,
1907, the Deacons were instructed to
use one-fifth of the Communion of-
fering for other objects, and purposes,
than usually this .fund is used. De-
cember 4th, 1907, it was decided to
elect a Moderator, whose duty it shall
be to preside over all business meet-
ings, and whose term of office shall
be one year. By unanimous vote Dea-
con J. S. Hall was elected to that po-
sition, which he has held with honor,
and acceptance to this day. In this
meeting a motion was passed request-
ing the heads of each department to
present an annual report of work done
by that department for the year
closing with December 31st. Septem-
ber 8th, Rev. R. S. Mackey, pastor of
the "Church of God," presented him-
self for membership in this church,
and after examination by Deacons and
others he was received as a member,
and the hand of fellowship extended
to him. At the same meeting it was
moved and carried, that the church
request the Bloomfield Association in
its meeting at Arthur, to examine
Rev. Mr. Mackey as to ordination, to
the gospel ministry as a Baptist. Oc-
tober Gth, 1909, the Trustees reported
the gift of $300.00 by Miss Myra Sil-
vers to the church. December 2nd,
1909, the Deacons reported that there
were 49 conversions as a result of the
Herald of Hope work in the north part
of the city. They recommended the
formation of a mission branch of the
First Church. For further history see
Herald of Hope Baptist church. Sep-
tember 18th, 1909, the Deacons recom-
mended that the Rev. Edgar Wool-
house be called as Assistant Pastor of
the First Church with a view to tak-
ing charge of the work at Herald of
Hope Chapel. December 7th, 1910,
the Pastor, R. V. Meigs, was request-
ed to take charge of Finances for the
year 1911. June 7th, 1911, it was mov-
ed and carried that one service every
two months be devoted to the Com-
munion service. September 23rd, 1911,
the Rev. Edgar Woolhouse was callel
to the Herald of Hope Mission. Jan-
uary 3rd, 1912, the plan of financing
the church was left as last year, in
the hands of the Pastor. February
4th, 1912, Revs. R. S. Kirkland and
F. F. Leonard began a special meet-
ing. There is no further record of
that meeting as to results, or time of
continuance. July 17tn, 1912, Rev. R.
V. Meigs presented his resignation as
Pastor, and it was accepted to take
place September 1st, 1912. Resolu-
tions were passed on the resignation
of Rev. R. V. Meigs. Brother Meigs
was a very magnetic man with a pas-
sion for additions, and a persistent
method of working to that end. His
history in the church, page after page,
is that of gathering in. There were
some periods of discipline, and some
names were dropped, but the whole
work of his five years, and eight
months of service was along the line
of accretion to the church. Several
times his health was in jeopardy, and
the church always came to his relief,
and did the handsome thing to his
help, and to her honor. During his
ministry in 1910 the Church enter-
tained the State Convention. During
this Pastorate a class in the Sunday
School was organized, and called the
"Tri-mu Class." This class might be
made the strongest organization in the
church, and will be so, when they
give the emphasis of their work to
the spiritual side of the church.
30
Letter of Rev. R. V. Meigs.
Mrs. Meigs and I began our work
with the church January 1, 1907, and
closed Sept. 1, 1912. At the beginning
of my pastorate I declared that the
First Church of Urbana should have a
membership of one thousand strong.
The first year the clerk reported 133
additions. The trustees reported a
deficit of $929.19 wiped out. The sec-
ond year there were 122 additions, and
the building was renovated, credit for
which was duly given to the varous
departments by Chairman N. A. Riley,
the Clerk L. A. McLean saying in his
report, 'The year has been one of the
most prosperous in the. history of the
church." During the year the benevo-
lences increased more than 25 per
cent. The Sunday School attendance
had almost doub'ei that of January,
1907, the average being 35G, with of-
ferings $8.92 per Sunday. In 1908, in
the afternoons the pastor held a cate-
chetical class for the younger mem-
bers of the church, out of which the
Junior Church grew in 1909, and in
1910 the Junior, and Intermediate C.
E. In 1910 a splendid Bible rHass was
conducted by Deacon E. S. Hall at Mrs.
Artemesia Busey's home. In the midst
of large plans which were being car^
ried out successfully came the sick-
ness which enforced a vacation of
three months and won my undying
gratitude to the church for its kind-
ness. In the year 1911 a finance com-
mittee of men was organized, which
succeded in meeting current expenses,
and also reducing the deficit more than
$200.00. An attack of appendicitis in
1911 made another three months' va-
cation necessary, and the church cared
for me. Mrs. Meigs and I enjoyed our
work with the church, and Association,
and University people and also our
church choir. It is our prayer that the
Urbana church may grow in spiritual-
ity, and membership, and interest in
missions among all its people.
Cordially yours,
R. V. Meigs.
Rev. G. M. Shott, D.D.
By a singular providential dealing,
Rev. G. M. Shott had been invited to
visit here on his return from the
Northern Covention at DesMoinea,
Iowa, but it so transpired that he
could not attend the meetings at
Des Moines, and cancelled his engage-
ment. A little later he was requested
to pay a vacation visit to Urbana and
visit with old friends and members,
and preach as a supply for Elder
Meigs. The arrangement had been
made, and the dates set for July 21
and 28. On Thursday, July 18th, in
a letter from Pastor Meigs, making
final plans for the visit he informed
Elder Shott of his resignation.
At his first interview with Elder
Shott, Elder Meigs said, "Why can-
not you come back, and take up the
31
work again." The matter was looked
upon at first as a passing complement,
and pleasantry, but after the first
Sab-bath of services old friends who
had been in Mr. Shott's former Pas-
torate met in groups, and at once be-
gan to discuss the possibilities of his
return to a second Pastorate, and so
that by Wednesday of the first week
of his visit it was practically settled
that a call would be extended. On
quickly the the sentiment spread,
Sunday, August 4th, 1912, the Pulpit
Committee reported a recommenda-
tion to call Rev. Gideon M. Shott to
a second Pastorate to tegin Septem-
ber 1st, 1912. He immediately ac-
cepted, and was on the field in time to
attend the Bloomfield Association at
Sidell.
The first work which has not yet
been quite finished has been to find,
and as far as possible line up the
large, and scattered membership of
the church. The organization of the
University Baptist Church, and a lit-
tle later the organization of Herald of
Hope as a separate church, and soon
after that the organization of Cun-
ningham Avenue Mission into a separ-
ate Baptist church, has made some
drafts upon our membership, but at
tlrs time as this history goes to press
the membership all told is GG4.
Rev. G. M. Shott was asked to teach
the "Agoma" Student Class and has
been teaching a Teachers' Class also,
besides taking a full hand in all the
other services, doing some outside
work besides. He expects, and has
already begun to do work in the As-
sociation, and at other points, and has
many calls for addresses, and funerals,
and other services.
During 1913 the Trustees are re-
sponsible for the financing of the
church. The church has been careful-
ly districted, and visitors located in
each district to look after each de-
partment of church work, and report
results. This method has not yet had
a good chance to reach results, but its
influence has already been very wide-
spread, and if the members of the
committees on the districts will do
the work asked of them it will revolu-
tionize the attendance, and finances
of the church. The Pastor relates al-
most daily little pleasant surprises of
finding people who were either ac-
quainted in the first Pastorate, or
were related in some way, making
each day a joyful day of service, and
surprises.
L. A. McLean.
FOURTH QUARTER CENTURY.
With the close of these pages our
church will be entering upon the
Fourth Quarter Century of its history.
May not t ehexperiences of the Three
Quarters through which it has come
(each -patience and perseverance and
strict adherence to Covenant? Would
it not be a fine ambition to strive to
exalt the standards of our church, and
denomination? At the time this book
goes to press it is being prophesied by
those who ought to know, that there
are many signs of a return to more
conservative standards, and deeper
spiritual ideals. The Bible is being
read as it never has been read in all
the years. It has passed successfully
through decades of the most destruct-
ive criticism possible to the judg-
ments of men. Every advantage has
been taken of its many translations,
and the consequent errors that have
crept in from careless usage, and yet
the integrity of the Word of God
stands secure.
Let us all begin at once to make
this generation tell on all successive
generations.
32
CHAPTER VII.
PASTORS DEACONS CLERKS LICENSE
"And he gave some apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists and
some Pastors and some teachers."
Pastor.
Elected.
Resigned.
Duration.
Rev Isaac Newell
September, 1838..
June 1839
9 months
Rev F Smalley
October 1839
June 1840
8 months
Rev Dan'l Porter
July, 1840
March 1842
1 voar 8 months
Rev Dual Dotson
May 1842
eptember 1843
Rev G W Dare
. 1847
May 3 1849
Rev Rual Dotson
March 3, 1849
July 5 1851
2 years 4 months
Rev. D. S. French
Rev Mr Taylor
August 30, 1851....
March 6, 1852
December, 1851..-
March 5 1853
4 months.
Rev Ira M Reese
May 21, 1853
May 6 1854
1 year
Rev G W Carter
July 1 1854 ..
March 3 1855
8 months
Rev. John A. Pool
Rev. G. W. Riley..
Rev. A. L. Fair..
Rev. G. W. Riley
December 1, 1855
April 5, 1856
January 1, 1857.
October 16 1858..
January 1, 1856....
September 1, 1856
March 1, 1858
April 7 1867
1 year.
5 months.
1 year, 2 months.
9 years 5 months
Rv. A.B. J. Bryant
October 2, 1867....
July 3 1869
1 year 5 months.
Rev. A. L Seward
July 25, 1869
July 1, 1870 . .
11 months
Rev. G. W. Riley..
D. F. Carnahan....
W H Stedman
February 2, 1870..
Nov. 10, 1872
May 10, 1875
Nov. 10, 1872
August 30, 1874....
March 5, 1882
2 years, 9 months.
1 year, 9 months.
7 years
Rev G M. Shott
August 1, 1882
June 8, 1884
1 year 10 months.
Rev B C. Sage
July 1, 1886
June 8, 1887 . . .
11 months.
Rev. F. J. Leavitt
Rev. W. W. Smith
Rev. J. W. Primm
Rev. J. F. Mills....
Rev. M. L. Rugg..
Rev. J. A. Brown
Rev. R. V. Meigs
Rev. G. M Shott
August 1, 1887
September 7, 1889
November 8, 1891
December 18, 1892
December 1, 1898
March 22, 1905....
December 9, 1906
September 1, 1912
August 1, 1889
September 1, 1891
October 2, 1892....
September 1, 1898
November 1, 1904
October 31, 1906..
September 1, 1912
2 years.
2 years.
11 months.
5 years, 8 months
5 years, 9 months
1 year, 6 months.
5 years, 8 months
v
The average of all the pastorates
is 2 years, 7 months. The longest
single pastorate was that of Elder G.
W. Riley, 9 years and 5 months. Th'e
second longest is that of Rev. W. H.
Stedman, D.D., 7 years and 1 month.
To Elder Riley came the unusual ex-
perience of a third call to the pastor-
ate while Elder Rual Dotson and
Rev. G. M. Shott were each honored
with a call to a second partorate.
33
"For they that have used the office of a deacon well, purchase to them-
selves a good degree, and great boldness of the faith which is in Christ Jesus."
DEACONS
Matthais Rhinehart, March, 1839.
James T. Roe, March, 1839.
William Gill, April 5, 185G.
James S. Busey, April 5, 1856.
J. N. Wilson, June 1, 1858.
E. S. Packard, June 1, 1858.
James Myers, June 1, 1858.
Joseph T. Everett, December 5, 1861.
William P. Sweet, February 4, 1863.
J. W. Everett, February 4, 1863.
Edward Ater, December 19, 1863.
Dudley McClain, January 2, 1870.
S. S. Hall, January 2, 1870.
Allan McClain, February 5, 1876.
George Walker, July 1, 1881.
P. Richards, March 19, 1884.
N. A. Riley, February 6, 1884.
J. W. Cushman, March 19, 1884.
J. P. Blue, March 19, 1884.
F. M. Snyder, February 6, 1884.
L. G. Hubbard, December 7, 1887.
J. S. Hall, October 1, 1893.
C. A. Tufts, December 5, 1894.
George Walker, December 5, 1894.
M. D. Busey, December 4, 1895.
N. A. Riley, December 4, 1895.
G. H. Clark, December 1, 1897.
George Walker, December 7, 1898.
John Ross, January, 1898.
M. D. Busey, December 6, 1899.
E. M. Knowlton, December 6, 1899.
James I. Batler, December 5, 1900.
J. S. Hall, December 6. 1911.
William Gardner, December 3, 1903.
M. D. Busey, December 7, 1904.
A faithful Deacon is a blessing to
any church or pastor. There is more
than ordinary opportunity in this
church for the office of Deacon to be
of special help to the Pastor and
J. S. Hall, December 5, 1906.
E. S. Hall, May 1, 1907.
F. J. Clark, Sept. 1, 1907.
D. L. Scroggins, May 1, 1907.
J. V. Riggs, December 4, 1907.
J. W. Primm, December 2, 1908.
M. D. Busey, December 2, 1908.
J. I. Butler, December 2, 1908.
F. M. Wardall, December 5, 1900.
Joseph M. Roberts, Dec. 5, 1900.
N. A. Riley, December 14, 1901.
John Ross, December 3, 1903.
Hiram V. Jones, Dec. 7, 1904.
W. B. Clark, December 5, 1906.
John Ross, December 4, 1907.
J. P. Blue, May 1, 1907.
C. A. Tufts, January 5, 1907.
L. G. Hubbard, December 4, 1907.
William Gardner, December 4, 1907.
J. W. Peacock, December 4, 1907.
F. C. Hubbard, December 2, 1908.
George Schiff, December 2, 1908.
J. W.z Primm, December 2, 1909.
H. V. Jones, Decemuer 2, 1909.
F. M. Wardall, December 2, 1909.
Edward Lee, December 2, 1909.
H. P. Stinespring, Dec. 7, 1910.
E. S. Hall, December 7, 1910.
D. H. Goodspeed, December 6, 1911.
Edward Lanham, March 1, 1911.
E. P. Barnhart, December 6, 1911.
L. A. McLean, December 4, 1912.
Hiram Jones, December 4, 1912.
W. I. Roberts, December 4, 1912.
J. S. Hall, December 6, 1912.
E. T. Strong, December 4, 1912.
W. L. Bennett, December 4, 1912.
church. A spiritual Deacon will stand
as a peacemaker between contending
parties. He can smother flames start-
ed by wagging tongues before a great
fire is kindled.
34
CLERKS
"Write it before them in a table, and note it in a book, that it may be for
time to come, forever and forever."
F. M.
F. M. Snyder
Among the clerks we find that F.
M. Snyder held the longest continu-
ous service. His term of service
lacked three months of eleven years.
L. A. McLean 'had two terms as clerk,
one of two years and another of nine
years continuously. F. M. Snyder was
born November 19th, 1834, at Homes-
dale, Pa. He became a printer's ap-
prentice at the age of 16 and after
coming to Urbana in 1850 he was em-
ployed by the Urbana Union and set
the first type for a newspaper in Ur-
bana. He has followed some form of
the business for most of his life as
editor, publisher, or journeyman. He
edited and published the Urbana Re-
publican, which afterwards was merg-
ed into the Champaign County Her-
ald, for ten years. He suffered three
disastrous fires, but rose each time,
Snyder
and continued to publish a newspaper.
In 1882 he took the place of composi-
tor on the Herald, and held that posi-
tion for a long time. June 21st, 1860,
he married Miss Clara Goodspeed, who
is still living. A large family gathered
about their hearthstone, and still live
with one exception to cheer their de-
clining days. Mr. Snyder had three
years of war service from which he
came home in '65 badly broken in
health. He at once addressed him-
self to his chosen calling, and made
headway against difficulties formid-
able enough to have discouraged even
a stronger man. He is a man of per-
sistent will power, and at present is
Justice of the Peace, doing business
without much loss of time.
He is an enthusiastic Odd Fellow,
and a member of the First Baptist
church of Urbana since March 3rd,
1883, when Rev. G. M. Shott in his
first pastorate baptized him and Mrs.
Snyder. His minutes are orderly, and
fairly full, and withal show care, and
neatness. He handled "the pen of a
ready writer."
David Cox, 1838-May, 1884.
James Myers, May, 1844-Ap. 2, 1853.
T. J. Newport, Apr. 2, 1853 -May
6, 1864.
Jephtha Trumann, May 6, 1854-
August 5, 1854.
David O. Quick, August 5, 1854-
May 31, 1856.
Andrew J. Allan, May 31, 1856-June
1, 1857.
Robert Slater, July 12, 1857-July 1,
1865.
Allen McClain, July 1, 1865-June
3, 1871.
Henry Steele, June 3, 1871-January
35
12, 1872.
Jeptha Truman, Jan. 1, 1872-May
4, 1873.
Robert Webber, May 4, 1873-March
6, 1875.
L. A. McLean, March G, 1875-March
31, 1877.
M. D. Busey, March 31, 1877-Jan.
8, 1879.
Mrs. Hattie Gere, Jan. 8, 1879-Jan.
1, 1881.
E. H. Cunningham, Jan. 1, 1881-
Dec. 28, 1881.
W. B. Carman, Dec. 28, 1881-June
28, 1882.
W. H. Dickerson, June 28, 1882-
August 15, 1883.
F. M. Snyder, August 15, 1883-Apr.
4, 1894.
Burt Webber, April 4, 1894-Dec. 5,
1894.
John Kerrigan, Dec. 5, 1892 -Dec.
2, 1896.
C. G. Hopkins, Dec. 2, '96; July
5, 1899.
F. C. Hubbard, July 5, 1899-Dec.
14, 1901.
C. G. Hopkins, Dec. 14, '01-Dec. 3,
1902.
L. A. McLean, Dec. 3, 1902-Dec.
6, 1911.
C. A. Tufts, Dec. 6, 1911-Dec. 4, '11.
Horace Ingalls, Dec. 4, 1912
Twenty-six clerks in all; an aver-
age of three years apiece for "25 of
tLem that handled the pen of the
writer."
LICENSE
"As ye ero, preach."
While the church has sent out
hundreds of members to take up work
elsewhere, it has not been prolific in
Ministerial results. So far as records
show only four persons have ever been
licensed to preach, and not one has
gone to the Foreign field. November
2, 1872, Henry Steele was licensed and
September 27, 1882, John Carman was
licensed, and August 5, 1895, W. G.
Spurgin was licensed, but his license
was revoked July 5th, 1899, he having
chosen a secular calling instead. Feb-
ruary 14, 1883, Deacon Allen McClain
was licensed to preach. The church
should not only "pray the Lord of the
harvest that he would send laborers
into the harvest, "but it should seek
out promising young men and women,
and lay the burden of responsibility
upon them to prepare themselves for
the many-sided phases of presenting
the gospel both at home, and abroad.
Our Young People's Society has been
paying about seventy-five dollars per
year towards the support of Gaula
Sayanna, a native Missionary in Han-
amakonda Deccan, India.
We have one member of our church,
Rev. W. H. Stallings, who is at Hamil-
ton, N. Y., preparing himself for work
on the foreign field. He was not li-
censed by this church, but represents
it as a student for the Ministry.
The supply of ministers depends
largely upon the home life, and the
church life of boys who come from
Christian homes. If they are proper-
ly taught in Missions, and the great
privileges of serving Christ at home
and abroad, we shall never lack min-
isters. The ministry demands the
best that any man can bring into its
service and the finest intellect cul-
tured to the limits of utmost ability
is none too small to consecrate to
Him who gave himself for the world.
The new minister of the next twenty-
five years will be more manly and
natural.
Let all who read this book pray
that the old church may send out
many a herald not only into the home
field, but abroad as well.
36
CHAPTER VIII.
FINANCES TREASURERS TRUSTEES
"On the first day of the week let everyone of you lay by him in store as the
Lord hath prospered."
FINANCES
From the time the church failed to
secure the lot granted to them by the
county in 1839, the financial prob-
lem has been an unsettled one. All
sorts of plans, and ways and means
have been instituted to put the church
on a good financial footing, but none
of them have been worned up to the
point of absolute success. The min-
utes swarm with constant references
to incomplete finances. (See chapter
on Resolutions). As the membership
increased the difficulties of the finance
part of the work seemed to increase.
There seems to be a sort of special
tenderness about the matter of fi-
nance, all through the church. The
fear of infringing on the personal
prejudices of members who range
along a wide difference of opinions
about the matter of giving, seems to
be at the bottom of the whole mat-
ter The Bible is specially explicit
ir the matter of the Stewardship of
God's people for finances. Your com-
mittee would urge a campaign of
persistent effort along the line of the
individual, proportionate, and sys-
tematic giving through the envelope,
weekly, till we get this matter out of
the ruts. It is not a good advertise-
ment to the world to see the church
run on such a cheap basis, with all
other things, including the homes of
its. people, run on a high finance
basis.
TREASURERS
"And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast
money into the treasury."
From the earliest times in the
church the collecting and handling of
money seems to have been by a Fi-
iiance Committee, and sometimes by
two such committees. A single
treasurer was not elected as far as
records at hand show till December
31st, 1880, when Brother B. S. Lan-
ham, whose name is frequently seen
on Finance Committees, becomes the
Treasurer. November 8th, 1883, John
Ross was elected to that office, which
he resigned September 10th, 1884,
when Ozias Riley was elected and
filled the office till April Gth, 1885,
when E. M. Knowlton was elected to
fill out the unexpired year, and has
remained the continuous Treasurer
for more than 28 consecutive years.
No one knows the harrassing detail?
of handling money for church pur-
poses, where so many do not con-
tribute regularly and through envel-
opes. Many little misunderstandings
are sure to result requiring explana-
tions which are not often accepted in
a sweet spirit. No man in the history
of the church could have brought
more patience into the work than he
has done, and the years of his con-
stant service are the highest proofs
of his abilities and the confidence the
church reposes in him. The Contrib-
utors might make the work less irk-
some by regularity and using the en-
velopes so that he can take his own
time to make credits.
37
Everett Knowlton
EVERETT M. KNOWLTON.
Everett M. Knowlton was born in
Stratton, Vermont, and took a course
of study in Leland and Gray Seminary
in Townsend, Vermont. He came to
Urbana in 1877, and engaged in busi-
ness for a few years. He then formed
the firm of nowlton & Bennett, which
has been doing a thriving business at
the old corner, for more than twenty-
six years. The store is also a sort of
Baptist Headquarters for Baptists
from far and near. Brother Knowlton
was married to Miss Hattie Bennett,
and though she is as staunch a Pres-
byterian as he is a Baptist, yet they
have an ideal plan by which each one
remains loyal to the church of person-
al choice with a delightful "right of
way" for visiting each other's church.
Brother Knowlton is closely related
to Missions on the Foreign field on
account of Rev. M. J. Knowlton, who
was our missionary to Ning Po,
China. After twenty years on the for-
eign field, Rev. M. J. Knowlton re-
turned to this country for rest, and
then returned to China, where he died
in 1872. Treasurer Knowlton has
been treasurer so long that he is the
most thoroughly posted man on the
financial spirit of our church, and his
advice is very valuable on any finan-
cial problem. His reports for detail,
and accuracy, are models, and the
minutes for many scores of business
meetings would be barren indeed if it
were not for these carefully made re-
ports. He has long since learned to
patiently endure the carelessness and
forgetfulness of members, who throw
an unnecessary strain upon him. It
is certainly "a means of grace" to
him. Let us use the church envelope
to pay our subscriptions in, and thus
avoid errors and save his valuable
time. I am sure no effort to show our
appreciation of his long, and accurate
service would be more acceptable to
him than a constant balance in the
Treasury.
TRUSTEES
"Give an account of
James Myers, Nov. 1851.
T. I,. Truman, Nov. 1851.
Daniel Brumley, Nov. 1851.
George Brumley, July, 1856.
Alonzo Stearns, April 5, 1856.
E. S. Packard, Feb. 5, 1858.
James Myers, Dec. 10, 1873.
Dudley McClain, Dec. 10, 1873.
N. A. Riley, Dec. 10, 1873.
G. A. Walker, Feb. 6, 1881.
M. D. Busey, 1888.
thy stewardship."
B. S. Lanham, March 19, 1884.
L. A. McLean, March 19, 1884.
Patrick Richards, June 6, 1883.
M. D. Busey, March 19, 1884-
B. S. Lanham, 1882.
M. W. Kaucher, Dec. 30, 1891.
John Lewis, January 2, 1895.
L. G. Hubbard, Jan. 2, 1895.
Robert A. Webber, Dec. 1, 1891.
N. A. Riley, Dec. 7, 1898.
J. S. Hall, Dec. 7, 1899.
38
William Schiff, June 7, 1899.
W. O. Connor, Dfcc. 6, 1899.
Mrs. R. A. Webber, Dec. 6, 1899.
Mrs. Melissa Carson, Dec. 31, 1900.
F. C. Hubbard, Dec. 2, 1901.
M. D. Busey, 1881.
George Schiff, Dec. 2, 1901.
James I. Butler, Dec. 2, 1901.
M. D. Busey, Dec. 2, 1901.
C. G. Hopkins, Dec. 14, 1901.
C. A. Tufts, Dec. 14, 1901.
D. L. Scroggins, Sept. 9, 1903.
Walter S. Ware, Dec. 3, 1803.
Mrs. R. A. Webber, Dec. 3, 1903.
Geo. M. Bennett, Dec. 7, 1904.
F. C. Hubbard, Dec. 7, 1904.
Frank L. Busey, May 3, 1905.
Otis M. Percival, May 3, 1905.
Wm. Schiff, Dec. 5, 1906.
Mrs. C. L. Van Doren, Dec. 5, 1906.
Frank L. Busey, Dec. 4, 1907.
H. P. Stinespring, Dec. 4, 1907.
N. A. Riley, Dec. 2, 1909.
Wm. Dietrick, Dec. 2, 1909.
C. J. Johnson, Dec. 7, 1910.
E. A. Winchester, Dec. 7, 1910.
C. D. Gulick, Dec. 6, 1911.
F. C. Hubbard, Dec. 6, 1911.
W. R. Barnhart, Dec. 4, 1912.
George Douglass, Dec. 4, 1912.
Owing to the fact that the Budget
of the necessary expenses of this
church is always more than the peo-
ple are willing to subscribe at the
beginning of the year, the church has
always been in debt to a greater, or
less extent, except at brief intervals.
The pastor was informed that there
was no debt that was not provided for
in good pledges. We cannot collect
these pledges, and the debt has been
growing, and would soon be unman-
ageable. F. C. Hubbard, President of
Board of Trustees, feeling the sense
of responsibility resting upon the fin-
nance committee, and trustees, pro-
posed a plan by which two thousand
dollars has been pledged, to meet the
present deficit, and also to pay coal
bill, so that no deficit will ensue be-
cause of this special strain. A plan
will te put on foot at once to keep
out of debt. As you read these pages
they will not show the hard work
necessary to get the money, but they
will record all bills paid, and no defi-
cit. Will not all interested in the
church help to keep up this high
ideal? Thank God and Fred C. Hub-
bard and take courage.
HOSPITALITY
"Given to hospitality."
The Urbana church has not been
lacking in hospitality. The people of
this church have ever been delighted
to entertain the ministers, and also
the state convention, and the Bloom -
field Association. The following is
the record of such entertainment.
The church entertained the state
convention in 1879, 1886, 1910; the
Bloomfield association, 1885, 1862,
1868, 1873, 1883, 1888, 1913.
As this book goes to press the
church is preparing to entertain the
Bloomfield Association. An import-
ant programme is in preparation, and
anticipations are running high that we
will have one of the best meetings
ever held. A Council is called to meet
Monday night to recognize three new
churches, organized in Urbana during
1912.
39
BENEVOLENCE TABLE
This table begins with the first
record of Mission money in the
Bloomfield Minutes. None of the min-
utes of an earlier date contain any
reference to Mission money at all.
Sometimes a collection was taken in
bulk at the Association, but no cred-
its were given to any local church.
The only record of finance of any
kind is money for minutes which be-
gan to be recorded in I860, and may
bt seen in *the membership table:
1 m
^ <? ^
ffi 2. *d
. OKS
g
g
p
M 2 _ O
p f ~
f 3 S-
1877
1878
1879
32.00
55.00
35.08
20.00
33.9(
36.1J
!
7.00
25.851
52.00
114.75
78.23
1880
30.00
30.00
1881
75.00
71.9J
| 32.95] 17.00]
196.88
1882
65.50
99.5^
15.00] 10.00]
190.04
1883
21.85
67.7E
17.50] 11.50]
118.60
1884 | 13.68
51.81
68.20
7.55] 3.21]
144.51
1885
5.00
71.31
53.00
72.9^
18.77
31.78]
252.80
1886
42.95
87.7f
23.50] 33.04]
107.24
1887
14.00
52.6*
35.00
26.45]
128.13
1888
80.00
18.23
61.15
35.00
32.65
22.00|
249.03
1889
42.04
38.64
29.69
54.80
93.38] 73.94
43.73|
376.22
1S90
9.00
59.001
31.1?
39.70]
32.50
171.33
1891 4.80 f 19.70
3.3E
29.70]
21.00
78.55
1892
50.37
58.53] 3.07
41.0f
23.00] 11.89
6.00
193.95
1893
39.30
38.50] 47.04
94.8F
36.35] 11.60
29.25
296.87
1894
10.50
51.35] 7.32
42.2?
19.73
10.07
23.95
165.15
1895
17.10
11.17] 14.25
11.00
25.98
77.50
1896
63.851 35.00
40.45
31.39
12.00
182.69
1897 ......
12.56
34.40] 14.25
53.1?
25.32
139.71
1898
16.10
52.87] 26.64
37.90
29.50
226.38| 31.40]
420.79
1899
15.00
58.30 34.50
45.75
25.751' 22.35] 27.40!
229.05
1900 79.03
56.68] 30.54
49.5?
28J5
243.98
1901 54.55
54.21 32.29
67.00
2r.75 13.35] 13.35] 5.00
261.50
1902 86.44] 102.51] 63.25
88.41
20.'75| 20.00]
381.36
1903 74.98 73.06] 26.00] 66.50
27!00| 20.00| 19.701
307.24
1904 59.98| 68.061 28.40
49.40
31.00
11.75
36.70]
285.29
1905 29.00
10.00| 30.00
44.00
26.00
8.75|
147.75
1906 63.22
43.97] 30.00
104.12
30.00
8.79] 35.11]
315.21
1907
88.24] 42.32] 35.00] 81.07
25.00
16.38] 12.75] 6.59| 307.35
1908 155.33] 95.34| 40.00] 114.17
46.00] 60.12] 30.11] 11.29] 552.36
1909 110.76] 95.78
54.50] 114.72
52.50
85.27] 30.29] 11.36
555.18
1910 101.87] 62.64] 50.00] 198.31
37.00
23.37| 73.37! 8.77
555.33
1911 97.42] 64.35] 57.00] 218.69
47.00] 54.72| 11.751 6.81
557.74
1912 148.96] 104.62] 50.00
215.67
95.00] 86.61] 30.80] 135.00
866.66
1913
Tot ]1749.66ll515.02i 871.69|3349.35 943.95] 956.81|2228.44| 184.82J9382.97
This table has been prepared with
great care and yet it is not absolute-
ly correct. Each clerk had his way
of counting the finances of the church
and some did not report the same way
twice in succession. It is the best we
can do.
40
CHAPTER V.
PAST MEMBERSHIP
"Not one of them is forgotten before God.
A.
Adams, G. Clarence
Adams, Mrs. Amanda
Adams, Annie M.
Adams, Ellis
Aiken, Frances
Allison, Roy
Alverson, C. G.
Allen, Mrs. Stephen
Alverson, Mrs. C. G.
Alsen, Albert
Alberts, Jesse
Alberts, Lavada
Albright, Mary
Allen, Andrew
Allen, Amanda
Allen, Mrs. Elizabeth
Alper, Mrs.
Amsbary, Bertha
Ammerman, D. R.
Anderson, Helen
Anderson, S. B.
Anderson, Frank.
Apperson, Maria
Apperson, Maria
Apperson, Virgil
Apperson, Francis
Apperson, Mary
Applegate, Mytrle
Aper, Dr.
Aper, Julia
Arms, Martha
Askew, James N.
Atkinson, Mrs. Annie
Ater, Mr.
Ater, Mrs.
Aterton, Elizabeth
Ater, Edward
Ater, Mrs. Margaret
Ater, Abraham
Ater, Mrs. Abraham
Atherton, W. C.
Atherton Mrs. W. C.
Austin, C. Mi
Austin, Mrs. L. M.
Austin, Pearl M.
Austin, Lulu S.
Austin, Maria
Ayres, Frank
Ayres, Mattio
B.
Baird, Mrs.
Baird, Arthur
Baird, Hattie
Brown, Stella B.
Brcwntleld, Mrs. Laura
Baird, Frank
Barker, J. J.
Barker, Nora
Barnhart, Charles
Baird, Lillie
Baird, William
Bayne, Frank
Bailey, Kate
Bain, William
Bain, Mrs. William
Barton, Frank
Barton, Mrs. Frank
Baker, C. J.
Bane, Mrs. Martha
Bass, William
Bass, Mrs. Rachel
Bagley, Anna
Bailey, Mrs. J. J.
Barnes, Mrs. Mattie Gill
Beasley, Mrs. William
Beatty, F. M. .
Beard, Charles
Beasley, William
Beasley, Ora
Beatty. Owen
Beardsley, Arvilla N.
Beaupre, William
Becker, Mrs. Wave
Beebe, Ruth
Beebe, Nellie
Beeby, Mrs. Frank
Beebe, Rev. W. H.
Beebe, Frank
Beebe, Mrs. W. H.
Beeker, Lillie
Beechman, Mrs. Mae
Beck, John
Beebe, Louis
Beebe, Florence
Beechman, Loretta
Behrens, Mrs. Anna
Bell, Elizabeth
Bell, Nancy.
Benton, Ethel
Beneflel. Edaline
Benedict, Mrs. Mary
Bennett. Charles
Benedict, Leo
Benedict, Ollie
Bennett, Clara
Benedict, Otis
Benedict, Mary
Baird, Grace
Bennett, Annie
Bennett, Lillie
Benedict, ertha
Bingham, Hester
Birney, S. H.
Bixler, Matilda
Blaydes, Grace W.
Blue, Mrs. Minnie
Blue, Mrs. Estella
Blackburn, C. H.
Blizzard, Mrs. Peter
Blackburn, Mrs. Marion
Blue, Peter
Blue, Nellie
Blue, Fredericka
Blue, Edith
Blue, J. P.
Blue. Alice
Blackwell, Anna
Blackstone, Mrs.
Blue, M. C.
Blizzard, Peter
Boyd, S. M
Boley, Katie
Bond, Walter
Booker, Mrs. A. J.
Boys, Mrs.
Boggs, James
Boyd, Mrs. Elizabeth
Bonsson, Mrs.
Booker, Clinton.
Boone, Hugh T.
Bond, Mrs. Walter
Bond, J. M.
Bonar, Katie
Boley, Jennie
Boner, Llbbie
Bosson, Mrs
Bond, William
Bradrick, Mrs. G. E.
Braman, Martha J.
Braman, Mary D.
Brash, Mrs. Charles
Braqkney, Mrs. Eiima
Brash, Char'es
Bridge, Glenn
Brill, John
Brown, Arthur A.
Brown, Mrs. Hattie
Brown> Rev. J. A.
Brown, Mrs. Helen M.
Brown, .DeWitt
Brothers, uoldis
Bennett, Thomas A.
41
Benefleld, Eva
Bradford, Albert
Brash, Hannah
Brash, David
Brash, Wesley
Brash, George
Bryant, Lillas
Britton, (Jertrude
Breneman, B. F.
Breneman, Mrs. Lavinia
Breneman, Forest
Bradford, Paul
Breceknridge, Mrs. M.
Brownfleld, C. J.
Brown, Susan
Brown, Peter
Brown, Lafayette
Brown, Albert
Brownfield, Mrs. Robert
Brown, Mary
Bromley, Merby
Bronson, James
Brown, Henry
Brown, Sarah
Brown, A.
Brown, Arthur
Brown, Ham.
Brown, Mrs. eJnnie
Brumley, Almira
Bruley, Lucy Ann
Bruce, Dexter
Brumley, David A.
Brumley, Samuel
Prumley, Elizabeth
Brumley, John
Bruce, Mrs. D. W.
Bruce, Dexter
Bruce, Mrs. Dexter
Bryan, Matilda
Bryant, Rev. S. B. J.
Bryant, Mrs. S. B. J.
Burke, Miss M.
Burke, Irene
Butler, Mrs. Angie
Busey, Mrs. Kate
Butts, Mrs. Gertie
Bullock, Willie.
Burke, W. C.
Burnett, Elizabeth
Burke, P. E.
Burke, Isabella.
Burke, Willie.
Burklow, Mrs. Ailcy.
Burke, Eugene.
Busey, Mrs. Elizabeth
Busey, Samuel
Busey, Simeon H.
Busey, Minnie
Busey, Robert O.
Bush, John K.
Butler. Charles
Buterfleld, Mrs. C. E.
Butler, Richard
Butler, Annie
Busey, James S.
Browning, George
Byrd, Arthur
Busey, Mrs. James S.
C.
Catlett, Roland
Cadwell, H. S.
Carnahan, W. E.
Campbell, Mrs. M.
Carter, Mrs. S. S.
Carpenter, Mary
Carey, Mrs. Pearl
Campbell, Mrs. M. P.
Campbell, Mary
Call, John
Call. Levica
Carman, Ella
Carman, Mrs. Julia
Carman, W. B.
Carmna, John
Carman, Rev. I. N.
Carman, David
Carson, Anna
Call, Ada
Carpenter, Mrs. L.
Call, H. M.
Call, Mrs. H. M.
Castor, Miss S. A.
Caranahan, Rev. D. F.
Carnahan, Mrs. D. F.
Carle, Ruth
Campbell, Quintin.
Campbell, Elizabeth.
Carter, Rev. G. W.
Call, Samuel.
Call, Mrs. Samuel.
Calhoun, Laura.
Campbell, Malinda.
Cassell, Benjamin C.
Cassell, Vina.
Carr, Sarah.
Carey, Elwood.
Carey, Elmer.
Cast'e, Martha.
Carey, Mrs. Mary.
Canada, Mrs. John
Call, N. M.
Call, Mrs. N. M.
Canada. Mrs. John
Chapman, Warren S.
Chapman, Mrs. W. S.
Chambers, Margaret
Chenowith, Grace
Cloud, Ida Mae
Campbell, Gladys
Clark, Mrs. W. B.
Clark, Bert.
Clark. F. J.
Clellan, Anna.
Clements, Flossie
Clark, Mabel.
Clark, W. B.
Clark, Mrs. F. J.
Clark, Miss Rose.
Clark, Myrta.
Clark, Mrs. G. H.
Conklin, Mrs. W. A.
Claybourn, E. S.
Claybourne, Mrs. E. S.
Clements, Sarah.
Clift, P. P.
Cliff, Albert.
Cliff, Sarah.
Cloyd, Millie.
Cloyd, Frank.
Courtney, William.
Cox, Mrs. Henry.
Cooper, Mrs. Alice
Cooper, Mrs. Ella
Comstock, aDniel.
Comstock. Mrs. E.
Conklin, Mrs. W. A.
Coughlin, Theodore
Connor, Mrs. Bell.
Cox, Mrs. J. (Frank).
Coughlin, Mrs. B.
Coffey, Walter.
Cooper, Anna B.
Coverdale, Mrs. Rosa.
Cox, Brother.
Cox, Mrs. Miranda.
Cox, George.
Cooper, Margaret.
Courtney, Frances.
Collins, Amelia.
Collins, E. W. G.
Collins, Mrs. E. W. G.
Courtney, Anna.
Cook, Nancy.
Cox, David.
Cox, Phoebe.
Courtney, Mrs. Alice.
Conkle, Willie.
Cooper, Mrs. Amanda.
Cox, William.
Cox, Julia.
Cunningham Brother.
Cunningham, Sister.
Cunningham, Minnie.
Cunningham, Naaman.
Cunningham, Grace.
Cunningham, Lulu.
Cunningham, E. H.
Cunningham, Mrs. E.H.
Cushman, Mrs. Ruth.
Cushman, E. H.
Cushman, Orinda.
Cushman, Elwin.
Cushman, Mrs. M, Ware
Cushman, Lucian.
Cushman, eLicester.
Cushman, Grace.
42
Cushman, Clara.
Cushman, Mother.
Cutshall, Ida.
Clark, G. H.
Clark, Mrs. G. H.
Clark, Mytra.
Cheney, Charles
Connor, Will O.
Cox, Frank.
Comstock, Laura.
Comstock, Mrs. A.
Conkle, Miranda.
Coogler, Emma.
Crow, Amanda.
Creiger, Lizzie.
Creech, William.
Curtz, Mrs. Ida.
Cutler, Charles.
Cutler, Mrs. Charles.
Curts, William.
Cushman, Burritt.
Cunningham, Alfie.
Cushman, J. W.
Cushman, Maude.
Cushman, Mrs. Lizzie.
D.
Davidson, John.
Davidson, Mrs. John.
Davis, Nellie.
Davison, Mrs. Lulu.
Davis, Forest.
Dare, Rev. G. W.
Dare, Flora.
Dass, John.
Darling, J. C.
Darling, Harry.
Davison, Frank.
Davison, Caroline.
Danney, E. C.
Danney, Mrs. E. C.
Davidson, Albert.
Davidson, Mrs. Alice.
Davis, Howe.
Davis, Mrs. N. M.
Davis, Hazel
Dale, George.
Davison, Mrs. Hannah.
Darby, Harry.
Davis. Minnie.
Davis, Dorsey.
Dexter, Henry Y.
Defenbaugh, Samuel.
Deck, Rachel.
Deck, Louisiana.
Depuy, Louisa.
Dempsey, Mollie.
Deputy, Miss Emily.
Depuy, George.
DeAtley, Ed.
Depuy, Mrs. eGorge.
Defenbaugh, Mary.
Defenbaugh, William.
Defenbaugh, Daniel.
Dietrick, Prof. William
Dietrick, Mrs. William
Dickerson, William.
Dickerson, Mrs. Wm.
Dickerson, Carrie.
Douglas, Josephine
Douglas, Mrs. Samuel.
Dougan, Sarah C.
Dougan, Mrs. L. (Porta
Dodge, Mrs. Isabella.
Downs, Mrs. M. R. C.
Douglas, Frank.
Downs, John.
Dodge, Mary.
Douglas, James.
Dougan, John H.
Dodge, Albert.
Doss, William.
Dotson, Rev. Rual.
Dougan, Clara.
Dougan, Grace.
Dougan, Mrs. M. J.
Donahue, Mrs. Merby.
Drago, Vina.
Dreese, Marie.
Drury, Alice.
Durman, eBnjamin.
Dudley, Ella.
Dudley, Mrs. Cora.
Dunn, Phoebe.
Duncan, Mrs. James.
Dunn, Minnie.
Duff, Mary.
Duff, Alice.
Dudley, Miss Ella.
Dudley, Clara.
E.
East, Mrs. Mae Brash.
Eads, Lettie.
Easterbrook, P. H.
Ebert, Evan.
Ekborn, Mrs. aDisy.
Ely, Miss Daisy.
Elliot, Omar.
Elliott, James.
Everett, Mrs. J. T.
Euripides, Fijaro.
Elliott, Mrs. Minnie.
Everett, Joseph T.
Everett, J. W.
Ermentrout, Daniel.
Everett, Charles.
Everett, Kate.
F.
Farr, Rev. A. L.
Farrell, Mrs. J. A.
Farrell, Halle.
Ferris. Stanley.
Farrow, Rilla.
Fenner, Edith.
Fenner, Margaret.
Fiscus, Cora.
Fijardo, Euripides.
First, Mrs. Maude.
Fiscus, Prilla.
Fitzgerald, Nettie.
Fluke, Mrs. Eva.
Fleck, Mrs. N. J.
Flick, Nancy.
Ford, Merle.
Ford, Mabel H.
Fox, Mrs. Amanda.
Francis, Charles L.
Franklin, Harvey.
Framm, Wallace.
Framm, Mrs. Mary.
Frame, Sim.
Franklin, Reisin.
Frame, Charles.
French, Rev. D. S.
Frizzier, Laurie.
Fugate, Dr. J. T.
Fugate, Allie.
Fugate, Dora.
Forsythe, James.
G.
Qardner, William.
Gardner, Mrs. Emma.
Gardner, Elsie Yanos.
Gardiner, Willie.
Gardiner, Arthur.
Gardiner, Lulu Green.
Gardiner, J. J.
Gallagher, Louis.
Gardner, Charles Roy.
Gardner, Mrs. Nellie R.
Garrell, Mr.
Gere, Asa.
Gere, Lucindas.
Gere, Warren.
Gere, Eliza.
Gere, Harriet.
Gere, Louisa.
Gere, Frank.
Gere, Mrs. E. A.
Gibbs, L. C.
Gibbs, Edith.
Gill, William.
Gill, Mrs. Elizateth.
Gilliland, Elizabeth E.
Gibbs, J. R.
Gibbs, Mrs. J. R.
Gibbs, Alice.
Gibbs. Mabel.
Gibbs, Clark.
Gibbs, Willet.
Glover, Allen.
Glenn, lona M.
Glascock, Kate.
Goodspeed, Hurr.
Goodspeed, William.
Goodspeed, Lute.
Good, Nancy J.
Good, Peter.
43
Goodspeed, Clarence.
Groucher.
Gary, Mrs. John.
Gere, Mary.
Gere, Nettie.
Goodspeed, Isadora.
Golden, eJnnie.
Goodman, Mrs. Mae.
Grant. William.
Groom, J. K.
Grant, Amelia.
Grant, Lida.
Creech, Mrs. William.
Grant, Fred
Grant, Isaac.
Griffith, Mary.
Griffin, Mrs. Cora'.
Granberry, Miss.
Griffith, Herbert.
Gremberg, Cla'ra.
Griffith, John.
Grosvener, Mrs. Nancy.
Grimes, D.
Griffith, Frank.
Griffith, Mrs. Ella.
Graham, Mrs. J. F.
Groom, Frances.
Groom, William.
Gulick, Rev. E. E.
Gulick, H.' Earl.
Gulick, Mrs. Hattie.
Gunthorpe, James M.
H.
Hagan, Mrs. Charles.
Hagan, Charles.
Hall, Julia.
Hall, E. S.
Hall, Grace.
Hall, Mrs. Emma.
Hall, Mrs. -ohn.
Hall, Lottie L.
Hall, Ellis B. .
Hall, Mrs. Viola R.
Hall, Fred A.
Hall, Lydia.
Hale, Roy J.
Hall, S. S.
Hall, Mrs. S. S.
Hall, Walter,
Hall, E. P. , ,
Ham, W. H.
Ham, Willard
Ham, Jacob.
Haney, Mrs. Linda Ann.
Hanes,' Mrs. Eliza.
Hamilton, Cecil.
Haney, Mrs> Bell.
Haney, James.
Haney, Delia Iva.
Haney, Alice.
Haney, Anna Myrtle.
Harmison, G. A.
Harrison, Donald.
Harrison, Jeanette.
Harvey, Mary E.
Harmison, Rebecca.
Harding, Lucinda.
Harland, Louisa.
Harmison, Samuel B.
Harland, Charles.
Harvey, Charles O.
Harvey, Lucy M.
Harris, Dora M.
Hargis, W. I.
Hart, Maud.
Harmison, Rosetta.
Hawk, Isaac.
Hawk, Mary F.
Hawker, WiUi am -
Hawker, Mattie.
Hawk, Russel.
Hawk, Frank.
Hawker, Charlie.
Hawker, D. W.
Hawker, Frank.
Hawn, Mrs. Luella.
Hawker, Stephen.
Hawley, Emma.
Ha*wley, Lucy. A.
Harris, Charles.
Harvey, Libby.
Hawley, Frank.
Hayworth, Emma.
Hays, Fred.
Harvey, Mary E.
Hawk, Merl.
Hawkins, P, E.
Hawn, Nellie.
Hawn, Albert E.
Hays, C. C.
Hays, Mrs. C. C.
Hays, Eva.
Head, Augustine.
Hedges, Emma.
Hendricks, Nellie.
Heller, Mrs. ohn.
Henning, Daisy.
Heller, Marion.
Henderson, Daisy.
Hensing. Jeronimo.
Heckler. Alohzo.
Heller, John.
Heller, Mary.
Hedges, Samuel B.
Hedges, rMs. S. B.
Heller, James.
Heller, Florissa.
Henderson, Clara I.
Kerrigan, John.
Heckler, Charles.
Heckler, Mrs. R. M.
Kerrigan, Guy.
Herrick, Burton.
Herrick, Mrs. Lavinia.
Kerrigan, Mrs. John.
Herriott, Mrs. Viva.
Kerrigan, Mary.
Hews, A. H.
Higgins, Mrs. Amanda.
Higgins, Charles.
Higgins, Calvin.
Higgins, Amanda.
Higgins, Lewis.
Higgins, Sarah.
Higgins, Jennie.
Hill, Mrs. Mary.
Hill, Edward.
Hively, James.
Hively, Mary A.
Higgins, Effie.
Higgins, Charles.
Hinckly, Emma.
Hines, Mrs. Laura
Hills, F. C.
Kills, Annie.
Hill, Joseph.
Howard, William.
Howard, Mrs. Mary A.
Hopkins, Robert E.
Howser, eGor^e.
Howser, Ethel.
Horton. Clyde.
Hodge, Jennie F.
Howard, rMs. Clara.
Hopkins, Myrtle.
Hodge, Thomas.
Hodge, Mrs. Drusilla.
Howser, Anna Esther.
Hopkins, C. G.
Hopkins, Mrs. Emma.
Howser, Mrs. Emma E.
Holland, Nettie F.
Hovey, Nettie F.
Hovey, Selden P.
Holmes, Polly.
Hollister, Flora T.
Howser, Louisa.
Houchins. Huldah.
Howser, Minnie.
Howe, Hattie.
Howe, Grace.
Houston, Mrs. H. A.
Holmes, Mrs. C. B.
Howser, David.
Howser, Mary.
Howser, Jennie.
Horn, L. W.
Howard, Silas.
Hogge, Mrs.
Horn, Luster A.
Hudson, Mrs. Clara.
Hunt, Mrs. E. Green.
Hutson, Eugenie.
Hubbard, Geo. D.
Kurd, Chester.
Higgins, Mrs. S. B.
Hubert, J. I.
Hughs.
Huxley Sister.
Hurd, J. C.
Hurd, Mrs. Martha.
Huhn, Katie.
Hubbard, Charles.
Hull, John.
Hughes, Martha.
Hurd, Clinton.
Hurd, Joseph.
Hurd, Jarvis.
Hurd, Simpson.
Hull Cantonia Gill.
I.
Innes, Stella.
Innes, Dorothy.
Innes, Mrs. Emma.
Ingraham. Charles.
Ireland, J. P.
Itz, Henry.
J,
Jackson, Letitia.
Janner, Mary.
Jaquith, Jessie D.
Jaquith, Mrs. Jesse.
Jarrett, ohn.
Jarvis, Mrs.
James, Edward.
James, Mrs. Anna D.
Jackson, George W.
Jackson, Lavinia.
Jameson, Mrs. Fannie,
pohnson, James E.
Johnson, J. J.
Johnson, Mrs. J. J.
Johnson, lantha B.
Johnson, Harry B.
Johnson, Mrs. Jennie.
Johns, Rev. H. A.
Johns, Mrs. H. A.
Jones, R. A.
Jones, Sarah.
Jones, Mrs. Effle.
James, Mrs. Elizabeth.
Jones, Lewis.
Johnson, Wilbur.
Johnson, Mary.
Jones, Florence M.
Jolly, Arleigh C.
Johnson, Mrs. W. C.
Jones, Ivan.
Jones, Elizabeth.
Jones, Mrs. Amy.
Johnson. Mrs. Julia.
Jones, Frank.
Jones, Orin.
Jones, Kersey.
Jones, Lewis.
Jordan, Lizzie.
Jones, Amy.
Jones, Samuel B.
Johnson, Lucy.
Jutton, Mary Busey.
Justus, Mrs. M. A.
Justus, Ida.
Julian, E. W.
K.
Kennedy, M. W.
King, Hudson.
King, Hudson.
Kiler, Mrs. Charlotte.
Kirkland, Rev. J. P.
Kirkland, Mrs. Maggie.
Kirkland, Mjonnie.
King, Mrs. Anna.
Kinnear, Stephen.
Kinnear, Mrs. Stephen.
Kimterlin, Nettie.
Knight, Ida.
King, Lillie.
Kirby, Rebecca.
Kirby, Francis.
Kirkpatrick, Mrs. V.
Klackner. August.
Kirtley, Mrs. W. H.
Kirtly, W. H.
Klinger,- Mrs. ate.
Knox, Mrs. Jane.
Knowlton, Lizzie.
Knowlton, W. M.
Koch, Florence.
Koch, Lloyde.
Koch, Edna.
Koch, Mrs. Florence.
Kaisel, Lewis.
Kaucher, Martin.
Kaucher, Mrs. Mary F.
Kemmer, John.
Kellar, Scott.
Kennedy, Mrs. John.
Keeler, eLna.
Kesler, Lola.
Kennedy, C. F.
L.
Lanham, B. 8.
Lanham, Mrs. B. S.
Lanham, George.
Lawrence, Mrs.
Lackey, Mrs. Eli.
Lackey, Maud.
Landis, John.
Landis, Mrs. A.
Lawrence, Sister.
Lawrence, Minnie.
Lawrence, Mrs. Emma.
Lackey, E.
Leavitt, Rev. F. J.
Leavitt, Mrs. Fannie.
Leavitt, Mrs. Lillie H.
Leavitt, Rev. J. A.
Leavitt, Hallie.
Leavitt, Lulu.
Leavitt, Elgin.
Leavitt, Ralph.
Lee, aMrion.
Lee, Lillian.
Lee, Mrs. J. A.
Lemon, Mrs. aMtilda.
Lemmen, Susie.
Leney, Mrs. Etta.
Leib, Harry E.
Leming, Mrs. Mary.
Lesure, Mrs. C. S.
Lewis, Ida M.
Lewis, Ralph.
Lewis, Stanley.
Lewis, Lucy.
Lewis, John M.
Lewis, Fannie.
Lewis, Hannah.
Lewis, Mrs. C. A.
Linch, Bessie Mae.
Littler, Frank.
Lindley, Clara.
Littler, Mrs. Laban.
Litler, Samuel.
Littler, Sarah.
Lloyd, D. H.
Lloyd, Mrs. D. H.
Lloyd, Frank.
Lochrie, Addie.
Lott, Mrs. Susan.
Lowe, Amanda.
Long, Miss Cora.
Lund, Exerett.
Lumley, Mrs. Nellie.
M.
Maguire, N.
Maguire, John.
Maguire, William.
Maguire, Marcellus.
Maguire, Morley.
Maguire, Mrs. Nettie..
Majors, Mollie.
Malone, Mrs. Emma.
Manney, Mary J.
Manson, Mrs. F.
Manning, Hannah.
Mansfield, Jessie.
Mapes, Charles.
Mapes, Mrs. Delia.
Mapes, Edgar.
Mapes, Fred.
Mapes, Mrs. Phoebe.
Martin, J. L.
Martie, Elmer.
Martin, Sarah.
Martin, Margaret.
Martin, Eunice.
Martin, Hugh.
Markley, Fannie.
Markley, J. H.
45
Mathews, Harvey.
Maxwell, Charles.
McBlenne, Mrs. R.
Markley, Flora.
Merchant, Mrs. Emma.
Mitchell, Mrs. Erne.
Moody, Mrs. W. M.
Moore. Mrs. Lou.
McCord, Margaret.
McCloskey, Mrs. Mary.
McCloskey. Thomas.
McCloud, Gus.
McCool, E. H.
McClurg, Ernest.
McCool, eParl.
McClain, Frank.
McClain, Sallie.
McClain, Clara.
McCurnes, Kittie.
McCurnes, Mabel.
McClain, Mamie.
McCloud, Emma.
McClelland, Alexander.
McClelland, Geneva.
McClain, Charles.
McCoy, Martha.
McClain, J. H.
McClain, Mrs. J. H.
McClain, Dudley.
McClain, Rebecca.
McClain, Allan.
McClain, Allan.
McClain, Elizabeth.
McClain, Addie.
McClelland, Anna.
McCullough, Maggie.
McClain, Bessie.
McDonald, Florence.
McDonald, William.
McFarland, Mrs. B. F.
McFarland, Frank.
McjGjilltelantfi Nellie.
McLennen, Duncan.
Mclntyre, 'Curtis.
Mclntyre, Jennie.
Mclntyre, Hattie.
McLennen, Mrs. D.
McLennen, Alexander.
McLennen, Mrs. Alex.
McLennen, Jessie.
McLennen, Zan.
Mclntyre, rMs. Maude.
McLaughlin, Jarrett E.
Mclntyre, Mrs. Mary.
McLean, Clair.
Mclnnes, Mrs. F.
Merrick, Mrs. Harry.
Merrifleld, Mary O.
Mendenhall, Mrs. Belle.
Mills, Rev. J. F.
McLaughlin, Mrs. E.
McLennen, Emma Ross
McGeorge, Laura.
McLennen, Katie.
McLennen, Aggie.
McWilliams, Emma.
Mercer. Mrs. James B.
Mechling, L. M.
Mechling, Mrs. L. M.
Merrick, Harry.
Meigs, Mrs. R. V.
Meigs, Rev. R. V.
Merrifield^ Leonard.
Mills, Mrs. J. F.
Miller, Jacob.
Mix, Martin.
Miner, T. Ralph.
Miner, James H.
Miner, Mrs. Mary D.
Miner, Fred G.
Miller, Riley.
Miller, Elizabeth.
Miller, Lena.
Mitchell, Maud.
Miner, Mrs. P. B.
Michs. Sister.
Mitchell, Jane.
Miller, Emma.
Miller, Mrs. Caroline.
Miller, Daisy.
Miller, Ona.
Miller, Walter.
Miller, Joseph.
Miller, W. K.
Moody, Mrs. W. M.
Mosely, Mrs. Sarah M.
Moore, Rosa.
Morgan, A. W.
Morgan, Mrs. L. G.
Morgan, Bertha L.
Morgan, Stella W.
Morgan, Alfred R.
Morrison, eParl.
Morrison, James.
Morrison, Minnie.
More, Robert.
Morris, Mary.
Moore, Clementine.
More, Peter.
Morehouse, D. C.
Morehouse, Mrs. D. C.
Morehouse, Arthur.
Morehouse, Arthur.
Montezuma, Carlos.
Moore, W. A.
Moore, Mrs. W. A.
Munger, Mrs. Etta.
Murdock, Paul.
Murphy, Mrs. Mary.
Mykins, Mrs. M. L.
Myers, A.
Myers, Mrs. James
Myers, James M.
Myers, Julia.
Myers, Mrs. Anna.
Myers, Mrs. ames.
Myers, Mrs. James.
N.
Nelden, George.
Newburn, G. E.
Newell, Rev. Isaac.
Nichols, Ralph.
Newport, T. J.
Nolan, Miss Bell.
Nolan, Thomas.
Nolin, James B.
O.
Oburn, Rush.
Oburn, August.
Oburn, Letita.
Oburn, William.
O'Bryant, Annie.
O'Bryant, Clara.
Ogden, Charles L.
O'Harra, Elizabeth.
O'Harra, Arthur.
Oleson, Albert.
Orendorf, Mrs. Ethel
Orendorf, Charles D.
Osgood, Huldah.
Osborn, Charles A.
Ouderkirk, Mr.
Ouderkirk, Mrs.
Overstreet, Mrs. Mabel.
P.
Parris, Beulah.
Parker, Lulu.
Parker, W. W.
Parker, Mrs. Adeline.
Patton, A. S.
Patton, Mrs. A. S.
Parnell, John.
Palmer, Landon.
Page, Sarah.
Parnell, Guy.
Paris, Ethel.
Patton, Mrs. Minnie.
Parnell, Charles.
Patterson, Matilda.
Palmer, Laura B.
Personette, Mrs. Etta.
Personette, Anna.
Perry, Mary C.
Perry, George.
Peacock, J. William.
Peacock, Emma L.
Perry, Cora.
Perry, Mary L.
Peshing, W. L.
Pershing, Mrs. W. L.
Perry, E. S.
Potts, Ethel.
Packard, E. S.
46
Pool, Rev. John A.
Perry, Mrs. E. S.
Phillips, .Wheeler.
Phillips, J. S.
Phillips, Miss.
Phillips, Sarah.
Parris, Hazel
Pilcher, G. Wiley.
Pilcher, Bliss A.
Pilcher, Mrs. Lennie.
Pickard, Ada..
Pilcher, Gleason.
Pitman, Clara.
Pickerell, Lawrence.
Pittman, Frank.
Poley, Mrs. Sadie.
Porter, Lewis.
Porter, Rev. aDniel T.
Platt, Mrs. E.
Porter, Eda.
Porucas, Mrs. H. M.
Porter, Ambrose.
Powell, Mrs. Matilda E.
Powers, H. M.
Porter, Delilah.
Prim, Rev. J. W.
Primm, Mrs. J. W.
Prim, Pauline.
Primm, Clara.
Primm, Phillip.
Prim, James.
R.
Radley, Amanda L.
Radebaugh, Grace.
Radebaugh, S. B.
Radebaugh, Olive.
Ramsey, Mrs.
Ramsey, Hattie.
Ramsey, Eliabeth.
Radley, Sarah Ann.
Radebaugh, Ina.
Radebaugh, Addie Mae.
Radebaugh, Clarence.
Radebaugh, Otis.
Reeves, S.
Reeves, Mrs. Florence.
Reid, Leonard.
Reid, Lena.
Reid, Charles.
Reeves, Mrs. J. C.
Reinhart, Matthias.
Reeves, Edson.
Reeves, Mason.
Reeves, Howell.
Reeves, Fannie S.
Reynolds, H. S.
Reynolds, Addie F.
Retzolk, Mrs. Mary.
Rehberg, Fred.
Rehberg, Mrs. Fred.
Reynolds, J. A.
Reynolds, Mrs. J. A.
Reynolds, H, S.
Rea, Mrs. Sarah P.
Reeves, William.
Renfrew, Delia.
Reese, John.
Reese, Rev. Ira H.
Richter, Ralph.
Riley, Ozias.
Riley, Mrs. Ozias.
Rittenhouse, Mrs.
Riley, Annie.
Riley, Emma.
Riley, Maggie.
Riley, Rev. G. W.
Riley, Mrs. Bethire.
Richter, H. A.
Richter, Mrs. H. A.
Richardson, W. B.
Richardson, Cecil.
Richards, Patrick.
Rice, Miss.
Richardson, Z.
Richardson, Mrs. Z.
Roach, Mrs. Flora.
Roughtcn, Stokey.
Roberts, Lovida.
Robertson, James.
Robertson. Mrs. James.
Roe, J. W.
Romine, Mrs. Maggie.
Ross, C. N.
Roach, David.
Roach, Carrie.
Robert, Sadie.
Rogers, Henry B.
Ppgers, Margaret.
Romine, James.
Romine* Mrs. James.
Roach, John.
Romine, W. H.
Romine, Mrs. W. H.
Roach, Mrs. S.
Roughton, Samuel.
Roe, James T.
Roe, Lillie.
Roberts, Lydia.
Romine, Mrs. Louisa.
Roberts, Mrs. Sadie.
Roberts, Joseph M.
Russell, H. T.
Rugg, Rev. M. L. D.D.
Rugg, Mrs. Lillie A.
Rugg, Arthur E.
Hugg. Herbert.
Ruggles, Jennie F.
Russell, Hugh.
Ruggles, Ernest.
Ross, Mrs. Eva.
Rugg, Mrs. Edna.
Sargeant, Mrs. Laura.
S.
Sampson, John.
Sampson, Clarence.
Sadorus, Hattie.
Sage, Rev. E. C.
Sage, Mrs. E. C.
Sanderson, "Sarah.
Saulsberry, Miss.
Sayers, Miss Emma.
Sampson, Ed.
Seaman, Ed.
Scott, Mrs. Susan.
Scott, Melissa.
Schuppel, Charles H.
Schoon, John.
Schoon, Mrs. Jessie.
Schif, Querin.
Scott, Johanna.
Schlorff, Mrs. May.
Scott, Joanna.
Scloan, John.
Schiff, William.
Schiff, Anna.
Schiff, Mary.
Schiff, John.
Schiff, Sarah.
Schiff, Mrs. Mae.
Scleik, Mrs. Maggie.
Scott, Mrs. Anna Lee.
Scott, Mabel.
Shaw, Earl.
Shaw, Nellie.
Shaw, Mrs.
Shepherd, W. A.
Shroyer, Mrs. Margaret
Shott, Mrs. Kate J.
Shrei, Freeamn.
Shannon, Mary E.
Shepherd, Charles.
Shannon, Amy.
Shepherd, Mrs. Cyrus.
Shepherd, Miss.
Smith, Mary.
Shepherd, E.
Slater, Peter.
Slater, Elizabeth.
Smith, Mrs. Mary.
Smith, Elizabeth.
Sides, D. A.
Sides, Mrs. M. J.
Smith, Arthur W.
Shannon, Olie.
Slade, Mrs. ,
Si 1 key, J. P.
Silkey, Mrs. Catherine.
Shannon, Mertie.
Slater, Robert.
Smith, Paul.
Smith, Margaret.
Smith, Mrs. Aggie.
47
Smith, Mrs. Margaret.
Smith, Lafayette.
Smith, George.
Skidmore, Mark.
Silver, Raymond.
Sloan, Minerva.
Slater, Emma.
Slater, Francis.
Slater, Lydia.
Slater, Mary.
Slater, Eleanor.
Roberts, Marion.
Shaw, Willie.
Stevens, R. H.
Surbaugh, Ida.
Surbaugh, Charles.
Shepherd, W. A.
Shaffer, Mrs. Flora.
Sipes, Daniel A.
Sites, Mrs. N. J.
Simms, Etta.
Slade, W. S.
Slade, Mrs. America.
Slade, Henry.
Slade, Amelia.
Sloan, Mrs. Minerva.
Smalley. Rev. Freeman
Smith, Rev. W. W.
Smith, Blachley.
Strak, George.
Stevens, Katie A.
Straight, Mrs.
Straight, Charles.
Steerens, Franklin.
Stark, Charles.
Stark, Mrs. Amanda.
Strale, Charles.
Steadman, A. B.
Stanard, Burt.
Stevenson, Lizzie.
Stout, Irene.
Stamp, Mrs. Anna.
Sutherland, G. Fred.
Sullivan, Mrs. Mary.
Surbaugh, Mollie.
Surbaugh, Mrs. Louise.
Seward, Rev. A. L.
Sweet, Wm. P.
Stearns, Alonzo.
Stevenson, Arthur.
Stovel, Mrs. Annie.
Smith, Rosa S.
Snyder, John.
Snyder, E. M.
Sprouse, Mrs. M. A.
Snyder, Wm. H.
Snyder, Charles.
Slade, Lucy E.
Snedaker, Abraham.
Snedaker, Mrs. A.
Smith, James S.
Snideman, Laura.
Snyder, John.
Snyder, Mrs.
Smith, Mrs. R. S.
Smith, G. W.
Snider, Drusilla.
Smith, Sarah.
Somers, Mrs. Ada.
Somers, Mabel.
Somers, Charles.
Somers, Mrs. C.
Spencer, Mrs. C. A.
Sparks, John.
Spence, Ina.
Spooner, Mrs. Dr.
Spencer, James.
Spencer, C. A.
Spencer, Newton C.
Spencer, Julia.
Spurgion, Susanna.
Steadman, Rev. W. H.
Steadman, Belle K.
Steadman, Mrs.
Steadman, Fannie.
Stidham, Mary.
Stidham, John D.
Stidham, Joseph P.
Stidham, Sarah.
Stemfleld, Mrs.
Steele, Henry.
iStu'bbe, Hamilton.
Staley, Mrs.
Stallings, W. I.
Stark, Mrs. Mattie.
Stevenson, Arthur.
Stidham, Emma.
Stovel, Mabel.
Strover, Mrs. Mary.
Stevens, R. H.
Stearns, Mrs. Delia.
Sturkins, James.
Sturkins, Mrs. Annette.
Stevens, A. Woodward.
Stevens, Mrs. A. W.
Stamey, Nancy D.
Stanfleld,
Starkey, Mrs. (Wood)
Starks, Mrs.
Straigdt, Grace A.
Steele, Mrs.
Stevens, Sybil.
Swain, Sarah E.
Swartout, Mrs. L.
T.
Tackey, Amelia.
Taylor, William.
Taylor, Henry.
Taylor, John.
Tanner, Mary.
Taylor, Phillip.
Taylor, Rev. Mr.
Taylor, Amanda.
Temple, Mrs. Stella.
Terry, Mrs. E. A.
Tenbrink, Mrs. Emma.
Telford, Mrs. Fred.
Terrill, Mrs. Lucia.
Teters, Mrs.
Thayer, Mrs. Lottie.
Thomas, Frank.
Thomas, Mrs. Ida.
Thornton, A.
Thorpe, Mrs. Carrie.
Thomson, Belle.
Thompson, Mrs. Mollie
Thomas, J. F.
Throckmorton, Mrs. E.
Titus, E. S. G.
Titus, Mrs. Laura.
Terrain, Annie.
Terry, E. A.
McClain, Annie.
Tips, Mrs. Minnie.
Tilbrook, Anna.
Timmons, Lura.
Timpson, John.
Todd, Belle.
Towel, Mrs. Maria.
Toy, Frank.
Trauer, Mrs. Lottie B.
Truman, J. L.
Tracy, Mary
Truman, Pepnth:ih.
Truman, Mrs. Jephthah
Trenary, Evander.
Truman, T. L.
Trenary, Lizzie.
Trenary, Charles.
Trenary, Elizabeth.
Truman, Elizabeth.
Trenary, Randolph.
Trenary, Mary A.
Tumelson, Mrs. Ruby.
Tufts, J. S.
Turnipseed, Mrs.
Turner, Charles.
Tucker, Mrs. Fuaice.
U.
Underbill, Maud.
V.
Van Buskirk, Julia.
Van Doren, r>ora Ann.
Van Doren, Robert.
Vandevort, JamieEon.
Van Zandt, J G.
Van Zandt, Mrs. J. G.
Vickers, William.
Vickers, M.iry.
Vaughn, Mrs. Addie.
W.
Wade, Benjamin.
Walker, Maggie B.
48
Ware, Walter S.
Watson, John.
Walker, H. E.
Walker, Mrs. H. E.
Walker, Staunton.
Wagner, Viola.
Wascher, Frank.
Wascher, Mrs. Frank.
Ward, Robert.
Warren, Fannie.
Walters, Mrs. Ellis.
Wardall, Lillian N.
Walker, Experience.
Walruth, A.
Washington, Mrs. M.
Wall, Mrs.
Watch, Angie.
Waller, Rev. J. C.
Waller, Mrs. J. C.
Waldt, Emma.
Waldt, Charles.
Ward, Uriah B.
Watson, Lovida.
Watkins, Sloan.
Walker, G. A.
Ware, Mrs. Mae.
Walters, Mrs. Martha.
Webber, Robert A.
Warrick, Theron.
Webber, Mrs. Anna B.
Webber, J. Clay.
Webb, Mrs. Minnie.
West, Mrs. E. N.
Webber, Lois E.
Webber, Geo. W.
Webber, Mrs. Alice. E.
Webber, Fred.
Webber, Sallie.
Weeks, Carrie.
Wellman, Laura.
Westburg, Mrs. Emma.
West, Amanda L.
Wheelock, Clifford.
Wheelock, George.
Wheaton, Mrs. Clara.
White, Miss.
Whiteneck, Emma.
Williamson, Amelia.
Williamson, Mary.
Williamson, William.
Williamson, Mrs. Wm.
Williamsey, Mrs.
Williams, Arthur.
Wills, Charles.
Wills, Millie.
Wilson, J. W.
Wilson, Mrs. J. W.
Wilcox, Rev. Nathan.
Wilcox, Mrs. Jane.
Wiseman, Mrs. Mary.
Wingler, Nellie.
Wingler, Walter.
Wingler, Mrs. Mary C.
Winkley, Ed. C.
Winger, John H.
Winters, Bessie.
Winters, Sarah.
Winters, Harry.
Winters, John.
Winters, Stella.
Winchester, Effie.
Woody, W. N.
Woolhouse, Rev. E.
Woolhouse, Mrs. E.
Woolhouse, Lolela.
Woolhouse, Jennie.
Woolhouse, Dwight.
Woolman, Mrs. Zenia.
Winchester, Effie.
Woods, Mamie.
White, S. C.
Wigner, G. H.
Wigner, A. J.
Wiley, Francis R.
Wills, Mrs. Nancy.
Wills, David.
Wills, Mrs. David.
Wills, Nancy.
Wilcox, Jane.
Woodworth, Howard.
Woodworth, Mrs. M. C.
Woolf, A.
Woodworth, M. C.
Wright, Harold.
Wright, Thyrl.
Wright, Frances.
Wright, Helen.
Wright, Earl.
Wright, Julius.
Wright, Ruth.
Wright, Allen.
Wright, Mrs. E. R.
Wright, Mrs. Ella.
Wright, Marietta.
Wright, Lindley A.
Wright, Mrs. Taylor.
Wright, Effie.
Wright, Emma.
Wright, Mattie.
Wright, S. C.
Wright, Edward.
Wright, Mrs. Edith.
Y.
Yant, William A.
Yant, Mrs. W. A.
Yanos, Mrs. Maggie.
Yanos, Edward.
Yeo, Hael Bird.
Z.
Zimmermann, Simeon.
Membership of the Past.
The Historical Committee greatly
regrets the loss of all records of
membership back of 1872. In so far
as names were carried into the new
records beginning January, 1872, they
are included here. It is absolutely
impossible to get these lost names in
any way. The loss covers a period of
34 years. Brother L. A. McLean
copied the general history from the
old book that is lost, and the Com-
mittee hereby expresses its gratitude
that we have that part which estab-
lishes beyond doubt the time, and
peculiar cricumstances under which
the church was organized. A com-
plete list of thirteen constituent
members are mentioned in the gener-
al history, and the official directory is
almost perfect. Every inducement
has been offered to search for the old
book, and yet no trace of it can be
fcund. However a very large number
of people are named above who came
in during the time covered by the lost
book. It has been possible to estab-
lish how most of that early date went
out of the church, but to publish that,
49
with how they came in, and went out
since 1872, would exceed the limits of
our space, and not be of any special
value except to a few. This list of
1540 is given above, with the assur-
ance that it is the best that can be
done, but is by no means correct.
In view of the usual carelessness
of clerks of that early day, and also
the fact that this church has had an
unusual history in the addition of
many persons to her membership, who
moved away, and were never heard
from afterwards, also many married,
and the change of names was not
noted, and they were thus lost to the
cause by lapse of address. It is pos-
sible that the membership, if we
could re-establish it from the lost
book, allowing for usual imperfection
in reeords of the times, would easily
reach 2,000.
If any reader of these pages can
supply any names of persons certain-
ly members of the First Church, Ur-
bana, at any time during its history,
and not found on these lists, the His-
torical Committee will file any such
reports in shape for the writing of
the 100 years history, which will
doubtless be the next attempt. Every-
thing in reason has been done in the
way of advertisement, and public no-
tice to get as nearly correct as possi-
ble.
How carefully all clerks of all de-
partments ought to be to preserve
every item with its day, month, and
year, so that it will be of value in fu-
ture writing. Where it 'has been
known only the maiden name or tne
married name is given, but many
mistakes have been made because no
one knows the change.
THE OLD GUARD.
Our life is nothing but a winter's day,
Some only break their fast and so away;
Others stay to dinner and depart full-fed;
The deepest age but sups and goes to bed;
He's most in debt who lingers out the day;
Who dies betimes has less and less to pay.
Every army has its "Old Guard"
and the country seeks to show its ap-
preciation for them in various ways.
The Historical Committee takes this
plan of showing our appreciation for
those who remain from a former gen-
eration and who have been longest in
the membership of this church.
It is a coincidence that the church
began with thirteen and at the close
of three-quarters of a century there
are only sixteen who can show a con-
tinuous membership of from 48 to 55
years. These are given in the order
of their union with the church as
nearly as can be ascertained: N. A.
Riley, January, 1858. Mrs. Margaret
(Porter) Walker, 1861. Mrs. H. M.
Palmer, 1861. L. A. McLean and Mrs.
Jennie McLean, 1863. Mrs. M. A. Car-
son, 1863. M. D. Busey, 1863. Mrs.
Phcebe Goodspeed, 1863. Mrs. Mary
(Carr) Silver, 1864. Mrs. Cornelia
Johnson, 1864. Mrs. R. A. Webber,
October, 1865. Mrs. Anna Busey,
1865. Mrs. Mary Benedict, 1865. Mrs.
Artemesia Busey, 1865.
Since writing the above list it has
oeen discovered that Mrs. Mary Silver
came into the church in 1863, and
Mrs. Betty Thomas, 1865.
In addition to the above there are
some who are conspicuous for their
long membership in the kingdom
though not in this church who justly
deserve a place in this chapter on ac-
count of their faithfulness to the
church.
50
M. D. L. Sellers.
It is a common thing to see M. D.
Sellers, and Mrs. M. D. Sellers walking
with their canes to almost every ser-
vice. They are members of classes in
our school, and they are as regular as
those who are many years their Jun-
ior. He has been a church member
here and elsewhere fifty years, while
she has been a member G3 " years.
Uncle 'Jimmie" Butler, as he is af-
fectionately called, is quite regular in
his attendance, although the years are
wearing heavily upon him. His em-
ployers at the Court House have pen-
sioned him as an expression of their
high appreciation for him, and the life
he has lived among them. J. V. and
Mrs. J. V. Riggs are also regular in
their attendance at Sunday School
and prayer meeting, and church. They
Mrs. Rebecca Sellers.
are enjoying their closing years, al-
though afflictions have visited them
recently. The next in age is too large
a list to be published, and they must
be contented to be the old guard of
the next quarter century history.
We are really setting the pace now
for the progress of the next quarter of
a century. Changes are taking place
around us and within us. Old things
are giving way to the new and this is
as it should be. In the spiritual world
similar things are taking place. Men
and women are readjusting their faith
and reasserting old things that abide
and insisting on new and untried
things. Let us not give up that which
is distinctly declared in God's word,
but learn to adapt it to the new life
of luxury and self interest.
"They shall bring forth fruit in old age."
51
CHAPTER VI.
PRESENT MEMBERSHIP
"Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together as the manner of some is.'
A.
Adams, Helen, 611 Eureka St. (C).
Adler, C. J., 907 E. Green.
Adler, Mrs. Anna, 907 E. Green.
Adler, Emily M., 907 E. Green.
Adler. Hulda L., 907 E. Green.
Alberts, Mrs. Emma, 105 E. High.
Alberts, Joe, 105 E. High.
Alberts, Wiley, 106 E. Illinois.
Allen, Rolla, 207 E. Illinois.
Allison, Carl, 337 Y. M. C. A.
Ammerman, Mrs. Lennie, 801 E. Main.
Ammerman, Charles, 801 E. Main.
Ammerman, Howard, 206 E. Mam.
Ammerman, Mrs. Howard, 801 E. Main
Andrews, Cortland, 212 W. Nevada.
Archdeacon, Will., R. F. D. 12 (U).
Archdeacon, Dolly, 804 E. Green.
Arledge, Mrs. Grover C., 710 E. Park.
Artman, Callie, R.F.D. 5 (C).
Artman, Josephine, R.F.D. 5 (C).
Auton, William, 304-5 Market.
B.
Barnhart, E. P., 209 W. Calif.
Barnhart, Mrs. Sarah, 209 W. Calif.
Baird, S. D., Bainbridge, Ind.
Baird, t'.rs. S. D., Bainbridgp Ind.
arnhart, W. R., 709 W. Main.
Barnhart, Emma, 709 W. Main.
Barnhart, Elsie, 709 W. Main.
Barnhart, Flossie, 709 W. Main.
Basye, Mrs. Mary, 80S E. Green.
Basye, Helen, 803 E. Green.
Becker, Mrs. Earl, 505 S. North.
Bennett, W. L., 402 S. Vine.
Bennett, Mrs. Phoebe, 402 S. Vine.
Bennett, Mrs. Lydia, 204 S. Vine.
Bennett, Juanita, 204 S. Vine.
Bennett, Geo. M., 209 W. Green.
Bennett, Mrs. Emma, 209 W. Green.
Benedict, Ruth, Kenosha, Wis.
Beverlin, Wm. H., 704 W. Elm.
Beverlin, Gladys, 704 W. Univ.
Beverlin, Mayme, 704 W. Univ.
Birdsell, Ruth, 208 S. Market.
Blaisdell, Mrs. Minnie, 506 S. 3rd (C).
Blake, Ethel, 212 S. Neil (C).
Blue, T. F., 310 N. Race.
Blue, Mrs. Elizabeth, 310 N'. Race.
Rlue, Mrs. Sarah, 406 N. Race.
Booker, A. J., 702 E. Calif.
Booker, Sylvia, 702 E. Calif.
Booker, Gail, 702 E. Calif.
Borden, Mrs. Sarah A., 914*6 Calif.
Boyd, Bert, 112 S. Lynn.
Boyd, Arch., 115 N. Webber.
Bradford, Mrs. Emma, 401 E. Green.
Bradford, Will, Springfield, 111.
Bradford, Earl, Springfield, 111.
Braman, J. A., St. Louis, Mo.
Brash, James, Indiana Ave.
Breakfield, W. Walter, Paris, 111.
Brownfield, J. W., 903 W. Illinois.
Brownfield, Mrs. Sarah, 903 W. Illinois.
Brown, Howe, 605 S. Market.
Brown, Mrs. Mattie, 605 S. Market.
Burlison, W. L., 1104 S. 3rd (C).
Burlison, Mrs. W. L., 1104 S. 3rd (C).
Busey, Mrs. Artemesia, 602 W. Univ.
Busey, M. D., 201 W. Green.
Busey, Mrs. Anna, 201 W. Green.
Butler, J. I., 506 S. Urbana.
Busey, Allan, 705 N. Coler.
Busey, Mrs. Iva, 705 N. Coler.
Busey, Frank, 354 Franklin, Buffalo.
Busey, Mrs. Lillian, 354 Franklin, C.
Burke, Lillie, R. F. D. 8.
Busey, Delbert, R. F. D. 5 (C).
Busey, Mrs. Maude, R. F. D. 5 (C).
C.
Cady, Mrs. Rose, 701 W. Stoughton.
Campbell, Mildred, Freesoil, Mich.
Campbell, Mrs. Jessie, 604 Spring. (C).
Cannon, Mrs. F. L., 202 S. Busey.
Carpenter, Lizzie, 105 S, Vine.
Carson, Melissa, 310 W. High.
Cassell, Mrs. Sarah, 405 S. Market.
Chadwick, Harry, 406 S. Race.
Chadwick, Mrs. Nettie, 406 S. Race.
Chadwick, Frances, 406 S. Race.
Clements, Charles, 711 W. Clark.
Clift, Mrs. Emma, R. F. D. 8 (U).
Coffey, Joel, Lafayette Ind.
52
Cole, Davis, 403 N. Lake
Cole, Mrs. Davis, 403 N. Lake.
Combest, W. P., 812 W. Church.
Combest, Mrs. W. P., 812 W. Church.
Comstock, Mrs. Bertha, 508 B. Green.
Condit, Esther, 302 W. High.
Connour, Janey, 704 W. Park.
Connour, May, 704 W. Park.
Conkwright, Dewey, 206 W. Nevada.
Conoway, Mrs. Myrtle, 410 W. High.
Conklin, W. A., 508 S. Market.
Conklin, Roscoe, 508 S. Market.
Conklin, Glenn, St. Petersburg, Fla.
Cook, Mrs. Cora, 606 E. High.
Coppenberger, Mrs. Lulu, 505 N. Coler
Coppenbarger, Etta, Loda, 111.
Corbin, Mrs. Ada, 509 W. Univ.
Corbin, Bonnie, 509 W. Univ.
Corray, H. M., R. F. D. 8 (U).
Corray, Mrs. H. M., R. F. D. 8 (U).
Corray, Mrs. Angeline, R.F.D. 8 (U).
Cottrell, Mrs. Flora, 205 W. Illinois.
Courtney, Albert, 407 S. Webber.
Courtney, Mrs. A., 407 S. Webber.
Courtney, Lottie, 407 S. Webber.
Cox, Harry, R. F. D. 33, Dewey, 111.
Cox, Mrs. Opal, R. F. D. 33, Dewey.
Cox, Henry, R. F. D. 8 (U).
Cox, Mrs. Anna, R.F.D. 8 (U).
Creek, Mrs. May, 115 W. Wash.
Crouch, Clyde, R. F. D. 10 (U).
Crouch, Mrs. Ida, R. F. D. 10 (U).
Cunningham, Mrs. N., 608 E. Calif.
D.
Daniels, Mrs. Edith, Butler, Mo. 8.
Day, Mrs. Anna E., 1307 Church.
Day, Mrs. Lettie, 129 N. Race.
Deason, Mrs. Elva., Murphysboro, 111.
Denton, John, Chicago, 111.
Denton, Mrs. Lou, 603 S. Market.
Denton, Marie, 603 S. Market.
Desmore, W. H., 206 E. Green.
Desmore, Mrs. Margaret, 206 E. Green
Dexter, E. G., San Juan, P. R.
Dextei*, Mrs. E. G., San Juan, P. R.
Dicken, Mrs. Fannie, 302 W. Elm.
Dickerson, Esther, 903 W. Univ.
Dickerson. Mrs. Margaret, 903 W. Uni.
Dodson, Mrs. Jennie, R F. D. 12.
Dolph, Mabel, 806 E. Hudson.
Douglas, George, 604 S. Market.
Douglas, Mrs. Jennie, 604 S. Market.
Douglas, Roy, R. F. D. 10.
Doyle, Mrs. Nettie, 503 E. Elm.
Dunn, Mrs. Hazel, Ralph, Iowa.
Dunn, Raleigh, Ralph, Iowa.
Durni, Bertha B., 1003 W. Clark.
Dunn, Ida May, 509 W. Calif.
Dunn, Adelaide, 509 W. Calif.
Durman, Kathleen, Little Rock, Ark.
Dyson, Chester, R. F. D. 9 (U).
E.
Edwards, Grover C, 702 S. Market.
Edwards, Mrs. G. C., 702 S. Market.
Ellis, Amelia D., 405 W. Main.
Ervin, J. C., Kankakee, 111.
F.
Faust, Otto, 1011 E. Main.
Fallon, Vallie, 613 W. Stoughton.
Ferrand, Olive, Kankakee, 111.
Ferrand, Walter, Chicago, 111.
Fleck, Louis, 903 E. Green.
Flexman, C. G., 906 Stoughton.
Flexman, Mrs. C. G., 906 Stoughton.
Fluke, Melvin, R. F. D. 10.
Fluke, Mrs Ethel, R. F. D. 10.
Fox, Mrs. Delia, Springfield R F D 5
Frame, Walter, Danville, 111.
Frame, Ed., 207 S. Poplar.
Franklin, Warren. 407 N. Busey.
Franklin, Gladys, 407 N. Busey.
Franklin, George, 723 S. Market.
Franklin, Mrs. Geo., 723 S. Market.
Franklin, Laura, 723 S. Market.
Freeman, Mrs. Alice. 504 W. Elm.
Freeman, Helen, 504 W. Elm.
Freeman, Harry, Cairo, 111.
Frisinger, Del, Decatur, 111.
Frisinger, Mrs. Del., Monticello, 111.
Frisinger, Claude, Graymont, 111.
Fulton, Paul, 1204 W. Hill.
Fulton, John, 1204 W. Hill.
Fulton, Ixmise, 1204 W. Hill.
G.
Gay, Elbert, R. F. D. 8.
Gerbing, Agnes, 508 E. Illinois.
Gerbing, Mrs. Jennie. 508 E. Illinois.
Gerbing, Herman, 508 E. Illinois.
Gilmer, Irvin, R. F. D. 8 (U).
Gilmer, George, 800 W. Park.
Gleason, Vallen, 910% S. Water.
Gleason, Mrs. Dorothy, 910% S. Water.
Gleason, Marion, 212 W. Nevada.
Gleason, H. F., 306 W. Washington.
Gleason, Mrs. Edith. 306 W. Wash.
Gleason, Mrs. Maryland, 212 W. Nev.
Gleason, Katharine, St. Louis, Mo.
Good, Mrs. Jessie B., 705 E. Cal.
Goodspeed, D. H., 304 West Illinois
Goodspeed, Mrs. Phoebe, 304 W. Ills.
CORRECTIONS.
Page 3 Column
2
Line 25 read
1884.
8
1
3
1868.
22
1
20
Sep. 7 1889.
38
2
8
E. P, Barnhart, 1908.
9
Burke Webber.
1
12
Amelia Richards. 1902
49
1
29
Mary Benedict. 1864
53
\
16
Hall J. 3. 905 S. Busey.
Hall Ella 205 W. Green.
55
2
3
Marion Roberts
71
2
last line read 1903.
76
2
19
1912.
2
20
1913.
90
2
7
Renfro for Renfrew.
Goodspeed, W. S., 205 W. Univ.
Goodspeed, Mrs. Stella, 205 W. Univ.
Goodspeed. Mrs. Anna, 410 W. High.
Gooduough, Mrs. Edith, 305 S. Coler.
Gorman, Mrs. Minnie, Arlington, Colo.
Gray, John, 928 W. Green.
Grimes, Ralph, 405 W. California.
Grimes, Mrs. Caroline, 405 W. Calif.
Grant, Mrs. Pearl, Decatur, 111.
Grubbs, Zella, R. F. D. 7 (U).
Guard, Mrs. Maud, San Antonio, Tex.
Gulick, Mrs. C. D., 1005 W. Oregon.
Gulick, C. D., 1005 W. Oregon.
H.
Hacker, Mrs. E., 705 E. Calif.
Ham, Mrs. Ellen, 211 E. Illinois.
Hall, Mrs. Sarah, 905 S. Busey.
Hacker, Walter, 705 E. Calif.
Hacker, Mrs. Mattie, 705 E. Calif.
Hamilton, Roy, Rodman, Iowa.
Handley, Mary, Potaskali, Ohio.
Harmison, L. A., 105 N. Goodwin.
Harmison, Mrs. Rose, 105 N. Goodwin.
Harmison, Beatrice, 105 N % Goodwin.
Hawley, O. J., 714 W. Elm. '
Hayes, Dwight, 211 E. Main.
Hayes, Mrs. J. A., 401 W. Oregon.
Hays, Burt, 904 S. Race.
Hayes, Mrs. Nellie, 904 S Race.
Hedge, Mrs. Anna, 1304 W. Clark.
Heffley, Mrs. Geo., Rockford, 111.
Heller, R. W., 206 S. Cot. Gr.
Helm, Clifford, 406 S. Market.
Henderson, A. H., 508 S. Market.
Henderson, Mrs. A. H., 508 S. Market.
Henning, Lillie, Seymour, 111.
Henning, Mrs. Adam, Dukesbury.
Henning, Adam, Alberta, Canada.
Hissong, J. L., 405 W. Calif.
Hissong, Mrs. Catherine, 405 W. Calif.
Hissong, Frank,, 405 W. Cal.
Hiserodt, Clyde, 107 Urbana.
Houchins, Mrs. E. E., 408 S. Anderson.
Howard, Mrs. Dora, 1006 W. Green.
Howe, Richard, 804 W. Springfield.
Hoffman, Mrs. A.. 612 E. Church (C).
Hunter, Lawrence, R. F. D. 10.
Hunt. Mrs. Nettie. 905 S. Coler.
Hubbard, L. G., R.F.D. 10 (U).
Hubbard, Mrs. Helen, R.F.D. 10 (U).
Hubbard, Minnie, R.F.D. 10 (U).
Hubbard, F. C., R.F.D. 10 (U).
Hubbard, Mrs. Martha, R.F.D. 10 (U).
Hubbard, Nellie, R.F.D. 10 (U).
Kurd, Mrs. Lillie, R.F.D. 8 (U).
Hurd, Clint, R.F.D. 8 (U).
Hyatt, Albert, 113 N. Central.
I.
Tkins, Mrs. Maude, 206 S. Cot. Gr.
Ingalls, Horace, 209 W. Oregon,
innes, John, 309 W.. High.
J.
Jasper, T. M., 341 E 43, C.
Job.son, Mrs. A., Portland, Oregon.
Johnson, R. B., 310 W. Calif.
Johnson, Mrs. Cornelia, 310 W. Calif.
Johnson, C. J., 410 W. Calif.
Johnson, Mrs. Eliabeth, 410W. Calif.
Johnson, Howard, 410 W. Calif.
Johnson, Lelian, 410 W. Calif.
Johnson, Arthur, 401 S. Grove.
Johnson, Mrs. Ethel, 401 S. Grove.
Johnson, Wm., 701 E. Green.
Johnson, Walter, 701 E Green.
Johnson, Mrs. George, 207 W. High
Johnson, Harry, 608 E. High.
Johnson, Mrs. Hazel, 608 E. High.
Johnson, William, 702 E. Hi;h.
Johnson, Mrs. Sarah, 702 E. High.
Johnson, Joseph, R.F.D. 8 (U).
Johnson, Elmer, 106 N. Lincoln.
Johnson, Mrs. Anna, 106 N. Lincoln.
Jones, Hiram, 109 W. Illinois.
Jones, Mrs. Mary. 109 W. Illinois.
Jones, Sadie, 109 W. Illinois.
Jones, Frank, 710 S. Race.
Jones, Marie, 710 S. Race.
Jones, Arthur, 710 S. Race.
Jones, Wm., 710 S. Race.
Jones, Edgar, 710 S. Race.
Jones, Mrs. Anna, 710 S. Race.
Julian, Mrs. Mary, 111 W. Main.
K.
Kaucher, Mrs. Geraldine, R.F.D. 8 (U).
Kellar, Mrs. Bertha, R. F. D. No. 12.
Kirby, Mrs. Alta, R.F.D. 8 (U).
Knowlton, E. M., 302 W. High.
Kirkland, Rev. R. S., 502 W. Illinois.
Kirkland, Dudley, 502 W. Illinois.
Kirkland, Annirene, 502 W. Illinois.
Kirkland, Mrs. Eva, 502 W. Illinois.
Kirkpatrick, Mrs. Ombra, 206 W. 111.
Klockner, Flora, 503 W. Park.
Kurtz, Mrs. Iva, Brooks, Ind.
Kyte, Orlando, Wabash Ave.
L.
Lanbam, Ed., 309 N. Race.
Lanham, Mrs. Mary, 309 N. Race.
Lanham, Roy, 309 N. Race.
54
Lanham, Ralph, 309 N. Race.
Laws, Mrs. Sylvia, Rodman, Iowa.
Layman, Mrs. Gertrude, 308 W. 111.
Lemen, Mrs. Jessie, Wheatland, Ind.
Leonard, Harold, Lewiston, Minn.
Leonard, F. F., 209% W. Illinois.
Leonard, Mis. F. F., 209% W. Illinois.
Lemen, E. J., Wheatland, Ind.
Leonard, Dorinne, 209%., W. Illinois.
Leonard, Russell, 209% W. Illinois.
Leonard, Hazel, 209% W. Illinois.
Lee, Mrs. Mary, 301 E. Elm.
Lee, Edward, 301 E. Elm.
Lin, Thian K., China.
Louthan, J. M., 1105 W. Oregon.
Loveless, Ruah, 1005 W. Illinois.
Lund, Mrs. Frank, Nevada, Iowa.
Lund, Frank, Nevada, Iowa.
M.
Maguire, Mrs. Anna, 808 S. Mathews.
Mahn, Charles, 307 S Race.
Mahn, Mrs. Clara, 307 S. Race.
Mahn, Ruth, 307 S. Race.
Mahn, George, 307 S. Race.
Martin, Oliver, 1102 W. Church.
Martin, Lloyd, 204 W. Lake.
Martin, Ella, 1102 W. Church.
Martin, Mrs. J. L., 1102 W. Church.
Martin, Mrs. Effie, 123 Pine, aDnville.
Mason, Dr. J. S., 202 S. Race.
Mathingly, James, 914 E. Park.
Mathews, Louise, Sadorus, 111.
Mathews, Harvey, Sadorus, 111.
Mathews, Shirley, Wellington, 111.
Mathews, Francis, Sadorus, 111.
Mathews, Mrs. Theodocia. Texas.
McLean, A. H., 206 W. High.
McLean, Mrs. Pearl, 206 W. High.
McLain, Berl, 1409 Park.
McFarland, Alice, 603 W. Clark.
McFarland, Mrs. B. T., 603 W. Clark.
McCown, Lovell, 312 W. Calif.
McCown, Mrs. W. M., 312 W. Calif.
McClurg, Vane, Danville, 111.
McCown, J. T., 312 W. Calif.
McLean, Mrs. Jennie. 412 W. High.
McLean, L. A., 412 W. High.
Merrick, Wilbur, 109 College.
Merrick, Earl, 109 College.
Merrick, Mrs. Bell, 109 College.
Merrick, Edith, 109 College.
Merchant, Olive, Kinmundy, 111.
Merchant, Gertrude, Kinmundy, 111.
Miller, Joseph H., 1002 W. Oregon.
Miller, Jesse, 304 W. Calif.
Miller, Mrs. Maude, 304 W. Calif.
Miller, Mrs. Mamie, Mattoon, 111.
Miller, Mrs. Josie, Urbana.
Mitchell, Mrs. Anna, 508 W. Oregon
Mitchell, Feme, 508 W. Oregon.
Mix, Martin, 1006 W. Calif.
Mollendorf, Charles, Evanston, 111.
Mollendorf, Mrs. Jennie, Evanston, 111.
Mol!endorf, Clara, Evanston, 111.
Mollendorf, Harold, Evanston, 111.
Moody, W. W., 1006 W. Univ.
Mollendorf, Paul, Evanston, 111.
Morris, Hazel, Indianapolis, Ind.
Morgan, Mrs. Augusta, 602 W. Univ.
Morgan, Grace, 602 W. University.
Morehouse, Frances, Normal, 111.
Morris, Mrs. Pearl, Peoria, 111.
Mullin, Mrs. Anna, 403 W. Park.
Murdock, Mrs. C., 105 College.
Murdock, Jesse, 105 College.
N.
Neal, Ethel, 315 Poplar.
Nelson, Mrs. Blanche R.F.D. 33 Dewey
Nesmith, A. W., 205 E. Church (C).
Neville, Mrs. Nancy, 306 S. Race.
Neville, Claire, Ft. 'Sam Houston, Tex.
Niblick, Robert, 702 S. Race.
Newell, Agnes, 111 W. Clark (C).
Niblick, Bascom, 702 S. Race.
Niblick, Hallie. 702 S. Race.
Niblick, Mrs. Anna, 702 S. Race.
Niblick, George, 702 S. Race.
Nog'e, Opal, 207 W. Oregon.
Nogle, Miss Caroline, 207 W. Oregon.
O.
Owens, A. W., 910% W. Calif.
P.
Parker, W. T., 402 W. Illinois.
Parker, Mrs. W. T., 402 W. Illinois.
Parker, Feland, 402 W. Illinois.
Parker, Leota, 402 W. Illinois.
Parker, Fred, 202% W. Illinois.
Parker, Lura, 402 W. Illinois.
Parker, Nona L., 703 W. Clark.
Parker, Ina, 402 W. Illinois.
Palmer, Mrs. Lydia, 209 W. Ch., (C).
Palmer, Mrs. Hnnah, 404 E. High.
Parris, Harold, 1304 W. Hill.
Percival, Ruth, 906 W. Green.
Pearson, Mrs. A., 810 W. Springfield.
Pearson, Pauline, 810 W. Springfield.
Pearson, Wilbur, 810 W. Springfield.
Peters, Mrs. Lottie, Danville, 111.
Percival, C. S., R.F.D. 10.
Percival, Mrs. Anna, 906 W. Green.
55
Percival, Olive, 90G W. Green.
Percival, Otis, 906 W. Green.
Pickerell, Roy, R.F.D. 8 (U).
Pittman, Charles, G08 S. Cot. Grove.
Pittman, Mrs. Susan, COS S. Cot. Gr.
Pitman, Hazel, 608 S. Cot. Gr.
Pittman, Daisy, 608 S. Cot. Gr.
Pittman, Clyde, 608 S. Cot. Gr.
Pittman, Ethel, 608 S. Cot. Gr.
Porter, Wilbur, Dakota.
Powell, L. L., 507 Chalmers (C).
Priley, Mrs. Nettie E., 112y 2 White (C)
Price, Mrs. Eva, 5021 Forrestville ave
Price, Ray, 5021 Forrestville ave., C.
Prue, Mrs. Mary, 405 Railroad.
R.
Rahe, Estella, Colorado.
Renfrew, Carlos, 307 W. High.
Renfrew, Mrs. Leone, 307 W. High.
Renfro, Estella, 701 W. Calif.
Rea, Mrs. Minnie, 503 W. Main.
Renfrew, Charles, 604 W. Main.
Renfrew, Mrs. Francis, 604 W. Main.
Renfrew, Clara, 604 W. Main.
Reid, Mrs. Marietta, 904 S. Bv.sey.
Reid, Olive G., 904 S. Busey.
Reimer, Mrs. Will, 806 W. Park.
Renner, Mrs. Louise, 906 W. Stoughton
Reed, Mr. G. W., R. R. 57, Sidney, 111.
Reed, Mrs. G., R. F. D. 57, Sidney, 111.
Rice, Warren, Clarksdale, Miss.
Rice. Irl, Clarksdale, Miss.
Richards, Clarence, Carlsbad, N. M.
Richter, H. A., Washburn, 111.
Richter. Mrs. .H. A., Washburn, 111.
\\i\ey. Clarence, 604 W. High.
Richards, C. W., 305 W. High.
Ritchey, Mrs. G. F., 805 W. Green.
Ritchey, Royal W., 805 W. Green.
Riley. N. A., 501 W. Main.
Richter, Gladys. 717 S. Market.
Richter, Leonard, 717 S. Market.
Richter. Mrs. Mattie, 717 S. Market.
Richards, Ralph, 1304 W. Dublin.
Richards, Mrs. Amelia, 302 W. Green.
Riggs, J. V., Loda, 111.
Riggs, Mrs. Clara. Loda, 111.
Kiggs, Bessie, 607 S. Race.
Richards, Mrs. C. H.. Fithian, 111.
Riley, Fred, Chicago, 111.
Roach, Samuel, 701 E. Calif.
Ronch. Mrs. Mattie, 701 E. Calif.
Roberts, Mrs. Wilber, 407 E. Calif.
Roberts, Wilbur, 407 E. Calif.
Roe, Mrs. Glenn H., R. F. D. 12.
Roberts. W. I., 108 E. Calif.
Roberts, Nettie 'M., 108 E. Calif.
Roberts, Mrs. Fannie, 108 E. Calif.
Roberts, Nettie M., 108 E. Calif.
Roberts, Harry, 108 E. Calif.
Rogers, Mrs. Luella, Brocton, 111.
Roberts, Nettie, 508 W. Oregon.
Roney, Grace, 315 W. Univ.
Roney, Flora, R. F. D. 12.
Rootes, Ward, 706 E. Walnut.
Ross, John, 203 E. Illinois.
Ross, Mrs. Sadie, 203 E. Illinois.
Ross, Eva, 203 E. Illinois.
Ross, Charles, Oklahoma City, Okla.
Ross, Will, 812 W. Healy (C).
Roughton, Harold, 401 S. Grove.
Rowland, S. A., 905 S. Sixth (C).
S.
Saltzgarver, Mrs. Arthur. Gibson, 111.
Saniels, T. W., 603 W. Green.
Schultz, Mrs. Nettie, 303V 2 E. Hill (C)
Scroggins, Mrs. D. L., 707 W. Wash.
Scroggins, D. L., 707 W. Wash.
Schaudt, Mrs. Ethel, 1003 W. Univ.
Scroggins, June, 707 W. Wash.
Scroggins, Frank, 707 W. Wash.
Schiff, George, R. F. D. 8.
Schmitt, Leonard, 703 W. Univ.
Schilling, Ralph, R. F. D. 12.
Schilling. Flossie, R. F. D. 12.
Scruby, A. T., 603 W. Green.
Scruby, Mrs. A. T., 603 W. Green.
Scott, Anna, R. F. No. 9.
Schiff, Mrs. George, R. F. D. 8,
Sellars, M. D. L., 410 W. Green.
Sellars, Mrs. Rebecca, 410 W. Green.
Shen, Wen Yu, 1012 W. Oregon.
Shaffer, Edna! 112 N. Central.
Shaffer, Willard, 112 N. Central.
Shaffer, Bernice, 112 N. Central.
Shaffer, Gladys, 407 W. Calif.
Shaffer, Glenn, 407 W. Calif.
Shaffer, Beulah, 407 W. Calif.
Shaffer, H. Y., 407 W. Calif.
Shaffer, Mrs. H. Y.. 407 W. Calif.
Shaffer, Florence. 112 N. Central.
Sharp, Mrs. Elsie, 1010 W. Green.
Sharp, Ethel, 1010 W. Green.
Sharp. Bertha, 1010 W. Green.
Shaffer, Mrs., 112 N. Central.
Sheffer, Mrs. James, 103^ W. Green.
Shelby, Violet, Gravel Siding (C>.
Shewart, W. A., 90iy 2 W. Green.
Shepherd, Elmer, 208 Nevada.
Shott, G. M., 205 W. High.
Shott. Cora E., 205 W. High.
56
Shott, Elsie J., 205 W. High.
Shott, Ruth E., 205 W. High.
Siders, Mrs. Anna, Fairlands, 111.
Silver, Mrs. Mary, TOG S. Busey.
Siverling, Gladys, Cam. Springs, Pa.
Siverling, Mrs. M., 'Cambridge Spg. Pa
Sides, Harold M., R. F. D. 10.
Slawson, Mrs. Josie, 505 E. Green (C).
Slawson, W. H., 505 E. Green (C).
Slack, J. K., 408 W. Green.
Slater, Esther, 704 S. Market.
Slater, Mrs. Mary, 704 S. Market
Smith, Howard. Geneseo, 111.
Smith, Mrs. Edna, Geneseo, 111.
Smith, Mrs. Minnie, 203 E. High.
Smith, Verne, 203 E. High.
Smith, Edward, 508 S. Urbana.
Smith, Mrs. Mary, 508 S. Urbana.
Smith, David, R.F.D. 12 (U).
Smith, Mrs. Belle, R.F.D. 12, (U).
Smith, Thamer, 108 E. Oregon.
Smith, Roy, 108 E. Oregon.
Smith, Etta, 403 S. Anderson.
Smith, Mrs. David, 403 S. Anderson.
Smith, Mrs. Flora, 108 E. Oregon.
Snow, T. W., 611 W. Illinois.
Snow, Mrs. May, 611 W. Illinois.
Snyder, Maud, 402 W. Univ.
Snyder, Ralph, 402 W. Univ.
Snyder, Frank, 402 W. Univ.
Snyder, F. M., 601 W. High.
Snyder, Mrs. Clara, G01 W. High.
Somers, Mrs. Ed., R.F.D. 8.
Somers, Roy, R. F. D. No. 9.
Sponsel, Olive, Mrs., Mandan, N. D.
Sponsel, Mrs. Olive B., Laurel, Mont.
Spurgin, Wm., 910 W. Green.
Stallings W. H., Hamilton, N. Y.
Stamp, George, 113 Franklin.
Stamp, Juanita, 113 Franklin.
Stark, J. E., New York.
Stark, Mrs. Mattie, Paris, 111.
Stevens, R. H., Deland, Fla.
Stevenson, Ethel, 305 W. Illinois.
Stinespring, H. P., R.F.D. 9 (U).
Stipes, Mrs. E., R.F.D.
Stinespring, Mrs. Leota, R.F.D. 9 (U).
Strickland, Mrs. Ida, 207 W. Oregon.
Strickland, Mrs. Stella, 508 W. Ore.
Strickland, Willie, 207 W. Oregon.
Strickland, Myrtle, 207 W. Oregon.
Strong, Mrs. S. A., 507 E. Green.
Surbaugh, Wm., Bloomington, Ind.
Strong, Earl, 507 E. Green.
Sutton, Mrs. Ella, 108 W. Green.
T.
Tarpenning, Mrs., 109 E. Hill (C).
Tarpenning, C. A., bOG E. Clark (C).
Terry, Mrs. Clara, 408 S. Anderson.
Thompson, Chas. H., 1203 W. Spring
Thomas, Mrs. Betty, 20G W. Green.
Thorpe, J. C., 407 E. Main.
Thomas, Abner R., 402 W. Elm.
Thomas, Polly E., 402 W. Elm.
Thomas, Handley, 402 W. Elm.
Thorpe, Mrs. Fanny, 501 E. Main.
Thompson, Ruth, R. F. D. 9 (U).
Thompson, Mrs. Lulu, Ogden, 111.
Tierney, Mrs. Sarah, 511 White (C).
.Tillotson, I. F., 704 W. Park.
Tillotson, Mrs. I. F., 704 W. Park.
Tipton, Evilo, R.F. D. 8 (U).
Toy, Addie, 705 Stoughton.
Toy, Carrie, 705 Stoughton.
Toy, Fred, 5519 Minerva, Ch.
Towersey, James, Thomasboro, 111.
Towersey, Mrs. Sarah, Thomasboro.
Tufts, C. A., 107 W. Hill (C).
Tufts, Mrs. Roxana, 107 W. Hill (C).
1-ufts, Mrs. L. O., 107 W. Hill (C).
V.
Van Deventer, Lola, 1305 W. Stoughton
Vanbuskirk, Roy, 1002 W. Oregon.
Van Doren, Mrs. C. L., 712 W. Oregon.
Van Doren, Mark, 712 W. Oregon.
Van Doren, Paul, 712 W. Oregon.
Van Doren, Frank, 712 W. Oregon.
Van Doren, Guy, 809 W. Nevada.
Villers, rMs. M. E., 301 W Oregon.
Von Holter, Mrs. De Etta, Mahomet
Von Koten, Mrs. Ida, 108 E. Illinois.
Vaughn, Herstal, Denver, Colo.
Vaughn, John, Denver, Colo.
W.
Wagner, W. T., 107 N. Webber.
Walker, Mrs. Margaret. 308 W. High.
Walti, Mrs. Josie, 704 E. Green.
Walti, Louis, 704 E. Green.
Walti, Nora, 704 E. Green.
Wardall, F. M., 1011 W. Illinois.
Wardall, Mrs. Myra, 1011 W. Illinois.
Wardall, Edna, 1011 W. Illinois.
Wascher, Mrs. Laura, 303 S. Vine.
Webber, Frank, COS E. Main.
Webber, Laura, G05 E. Main.
Webber, Mrs. Grace. 605 E. Main.
Welch, Mrs. Grace, 309 W. High.
Webber, T. Burke. 105 W. Illinois.
Webber, Mrs. Jessie, 105 W. Illinois.
Webber, Robert, 106 W. Illinois.
57
Webber, Mrs. Mary, 401 S. Market.
Webber, Elizabeth, 401 S. Market.
Webber, Anna, 401 S. Market.
Webber, Geo. B., 510 B. White.
Webber, Pearl, 709 W. Green.
Webber, Georgia, 510 E. White.
Weeks, Harry, 1123 E. 43d, Chicago.
White, Perry. 404 E. Elm.
White, Mrs. Mary, 404 E. Elm.
White, Harry, Thomasboro, 111.
White, Mrs. Harry, Thomasboro, 111.
Wheaton, Lillie, 112 W. Curtis (C).
Whitlach, Mrs. Bertha, 404 E. Green.
Whitlach, Irene, 404 S. Vine.
Williams, John, 207 W. Ind.
Williams, Mrs. May, 207 W. Ind.
Williford, Lewis, 108 N. Romine.
Willlford, Allen, 108 N. Romine
Winchester, Bessie, R.F.D. 12 (U).
Winchester, Mrs. S. E., 610 W. Calif.
Winchester, Benjamin, 610 W. Calif.
Winchester, S. E., 610 W. Calif.
Wyninger, Mrs. H. T., 305 E. Oregon.
Winchester, Mrs. E. A., R.F.D. 12 (U).
Williams, Jennie, 305 S. Grove.
Wilcox, A. I., 901 W. Illinois.
Wilcox, Mrs. Ruby, 901 W. Illinois.
Williams, Mrs. Anna, 901 S. Busey.
Williams, Mrs. Grace, Mattoon, 111.
Winsor, Mrs. Rosa, Farmer City, 111.
Winchester, E. A., R.F.D. 12 (U).
Wright, Mrs. Anna, 107 N. Webber.
Williams, Edith, 1002 Daniel St.
Williams, Charles, 1002 Daniel St.
Wooden, Eula N., Orchard St.
Woolman, Collet, Shreveport, La.
Woodin, Mrs. John. Dundee, Minn.
Wright, Jewell, 107 N. Webber.
Wright, Ruth, 107 N. Webber.
Y.
Yates, James, 704 E. Calif.
Yount, Fred, 508 W. Oregon.
Yount, Mrs. Myrtle, 508 W. Oregon.
CHURCH MEMBERSHIP.
Because of the different modes of
securing membership in the diverse
denominations of our times and the
easy method of securing union, real
membership is not regarded as high-
ly as it ought to be. The church is
the representative of Christ, and is
designated as the "body of Christ."
Each member ought to understand
that as a part of the body, he weak-
ens or strengthens the body. If some
of the cells of the lungs fill up, and
do not perform their natural functions
it throws more of the work of breath-
ing upon the cells that are active. If
too many cells become atrophied, and
as a consequence too much is thrown
on the healthy cells, they will some
day break down with overwork, and
lose their power of giving vitality to
the body. If you do not pay as much
as you ought some one else will have
need to pay more than he ought. This
church is carrying a great number of
nominal members who do not give be-
cause they say they cannot. They do
not attend, and as a consequence do
not get the inspiration of being pres-
ent when others Interested in kindred
things, are studying, or working, and
as a natural consequence they lose
interest. Why not wake up, and take
hold and learn to enjoy the work, and
worship.
BAPTIST PROPORTION.
"According to the American Bap-
tist Yearbook, in six states Alabama,
Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina,
South Carolina and Virginia one out
of every five of the population is a
Baptist; in Kentucky, one out of every
ten is a Baptist; in Arkansas and
Texas, one out of every eight; in Ten-
nessee, one out of nine. In the Dis-
trict of Columbia, Missouri, and
Louisiana, the proportion is one to
eleven. Then the ratio jumps to one
out of twentyone in Oklahoma; twen-
ty-eight in West Virginia, and thirty-
one in Kansas. In the United States
the average is one to seventeen.
58
CHAPTER IX.
MEETING HOUSES DEDICATIONS PARSONAGES
"The groves' were God's first temples."
"Who am I then that I should build an house, save only to burn sacrifice in."
In the seventy-five years of .the his-
tory of the Urbana Baptist Church it
has had but three meeting houses, if
indeed we may consider the little log
school house at Brumley's as its first
meeting place.
The Brumley School House, located
about a mile and one-half east of Ur-
bana was the first place that shelter-
ed these early worshippers, with per-
haps an occasional appointment in the
Old Court House, which was also a log
house.
From 1838 to 1850 these meetings
were thus held from place to place
with no certain abiding place. The
Brumley school house was known for
many years as the place where Mr. A.
Bruer, the schoolmaster, smoked the
scholars out at Christmas time. In
Old Church Erected 1856
this house many of the early settlers
received all their education. In No-
vember, 1850; the church appointed
John White, William Gill, U. O. Brum-
ley, Col. M. W. Busey, and James S.
Busey as a building committee. The
committee discharged its duties and
the house was erected and paid for in
185G, The following quotations from
the Urbana Union edited by J. O.
Cunningham, will give some idea of
the times and perhaps give the date
of the first organization of women
for church work. "The Ladies of Ur-
bana desirous of aiding in the pur-
chas of a bell to' be placed upon the
Baptist church now in process of con-
struction in this place, are invited to
meet' at the court house next Tuesday
at 2 p. m., for the purpose of forming
a society with the above purpose in
view." April 5, 1855.
"The Ladies of the Urbana Sewing
Society held in the courC'liouse yard,
Friday' ' afternoon; September 7th, a
festival for the purpose of getting
money to buy a bell for the new Bap-
tist church." Sept. 14th, 1855.
' "The bell for the new Bdptist church
has arrived, and will soon send forth
its mellow peals to vibrate over the
prairies, as often reminding us of the
persevering and noble hearted efforts
of the ladies of Urbana, through
whose efforts alone the purchase has
been made. The bell is one of beau-
tiful tone, and will tend much to en-
liven the place, especially on Sabbath
mornings, when we shall henceforth
be greeted by the "church going bell."
Sept. 27th, 1855. January 3rd, 185C,
"Last Sabbath the Baptist church in
this place was dedicated by Rev. Mr.
59
Thomas of Bloomington. His versa-
tility of talent was made use of in this
instance. A debt of $1,134.81 for ma-
terial and work on the church remain-
ed unpaid, with no perceptible means
of paying it. The whole amount,
however, was assumed by individuals,
placing the church out of debt at
once. Much credit is due Mr. Thomas,
who will long be remembered by our
people."
a time has the cry, "what shall I do
to be saved," been lifted up from pen-
itent hearts. Many a time has the
fiery and dogmatic teachings of the
scriptures been rung out over the
heads of the waiting crowds, "believe
on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou
shalt be saved."
Repairs and some changes have
somewhat changed the original ap-
pearance of the house, but have added
Interior of Old Church
For forty -one years that building
stood and housed the multitudes who
have worshiped there during the busy
days of western settlement, and war
readjustment. By glancing at the long
list of members who for longer or
shorter periods have passed through
the membership of the church that has
been worshipping in this place you
will see what an influence centered
in that old historic building. Many
to its efficiency and usefulness, with-
out detracting from its simplicity.
During the ministry of Elder W. H.
Steadman the congregations grew too
large for the seating capacity of the
house, and in 1876 a Vestry with two
rooms was added to the back of the
meeting house costing $850, which
added greatly to the convenience of
both church and Sunday school. Dur-
ing the ministry of Elder Shott a
60
Baptistry was also added to the plat-
form of the building. At some period
in the history of the building two
doors of entrance were made where
was probably the greatest personal
triumph in which the church ever en-
gaged. On February 21st, 1895, Rev.
J. F. Mills preached a memorable ser-
SECOND BUILDING.
one had been in the, original entry.
These features have been perpetuated
in pictures in the glass windows of
the present house as seen on the
north side central window and the
south side central window.
With unexpected suddenness the rec-
ords announce in terse phrase what
First Baptist Church, Erected 1896.
mon from the words, "lengthen thy
cords and strengthen thy stakes." It
was this passionate sermon that ex-
cited the people to a splendid frenzy
of work and sacrifice. The member-
ship of 400 had now quite outgrown
the old meeting house of 1855. The
officers met on Monday night, and
61
Stanford Hall
perfected plans which were presented
to the church on Wednesday night,
and Rev. J. F. Mills was appointed to
undertake the raising of the neces-
sary funds for the new building. He
was also empowered to call in any
help he might see fit.
L. G. Hubbard set the pace and
gave $1,000.00, which led the following
to subscribe a like sum: M. D. Busey,
Patrick Richards, E. M. Knowlton, and
Geo. M. Bennett. The following sub-
scribed $500.00 each: R. A. Weber, J.
M. Lewis, George A. Walker, J. S.
Hall, Mrs. Elizabeth Smith and family,
N. A. Riley, and Querin Schiff and
family. Other numerous subscrip-
tions from two hundred dollars down
were made. In one month from the
start the Committee reported $5,000.
J. S. Hall was appointed chairman of
the Building Committee with M. D.
Busey, L. G. Hubbard, R. A. Webber,
E. M. Knowlton, J. M. Lewis and L.
A. McLean. Stanford Hall of the
University Class of 1895 was elected
as Architect and later as Superintend-
ent of the building. The dimensions
of the building are 114x72, with a bell
tower 98 feet high. It is of German-
Romanesque architecture in brick and
gray stone. Memorial windows of
tasty designs make permanent the
names of many beloved members. It
was found necessary to raise an ad-
ditional $2,600.00 and to leave off
some ornaments in order to make the
subscription cover the bids. Mr. S. H.
Busey and wife, General Busey, and
Mrs. J. C. Kirkpatrick contributed
this amount, and a tablet to their
mother, Mrs. Elizabeth Bush Busey,
perpetuates their generosity as well as
their mother's love for children.
MRS. M. W. BUSEY.
Born in 1800. Maiden name, Miss
Elizabeth Bush of Washington Co., In-
diana. Became a resident here in 1833.
Many of those who had given large-
ly at the first stages increased their
gifts from $100.00 down. Special men-
tion should be made of J. Stanford
Hall, upon whom the great responsi-
bility of seeing his plans carried out
62
to execution rested. The construction
of the roof to support the great weight
is a marvel of architectural and me-
chanical skill. L. M. Moore and Son,
the contractors, are lavish in their
praise of the perfection of detail in
the Architect's plans. The Building
Committee had their share of well-
earned praise during the various
stages of the work, and their faces
are perpetuated in a cut in this vol-
ume. To the Rev. J. F. Mills more
than to any other single person, Is
due the honor, and praise for the
great building. His pastorate was not
only successful, for three years previ-
ous to the .building enterprise, but he
broke the record of men who build
churches, and stayed two years after
his heroic task had been finished, to
enjoy the fruit of his incessant toil.
Deacon S. S. Hall.
Samuel Stillman Hall was born at
Sumner, Maine, November 30th, 1808.
He was the son of Rev. Zenas Hall, a
Baptist pioneer preacher in Maine.
January 1st, 1833, he was married to
Lydia Ring, who died a year later. In
1835 he married Elizabeth Ring, who
bore him eight sons, and proved a good
and faithful wife and mother, till her
death, which came in 1852. In 1857
he moved from Maine to Illinois, on
a farm near Tonica. Here lie hved
for 22 years, honored and respected
by all. Here he met with his s f *cond
great sorrow, i.ae death of his wife in
September,, 1852. She left him with
a large family, some of which were
quite small. In 1853 he married to
Harriet Mitchell, whc bore him one
daughter, Miss Ella E. Hall, who is a
member of our church at this writing,
and furnishes the committee with the
data of this biography. In 1869 he
moved to Urbana, where he spent the
rest of his life, blameless, comforting,
and helpful. He gave five sons to the
civil war, and one sleeps in the cem-
etery at Chattanooga, Tenn. His third
wife died August 14th, 1887, leaving
his daughter to comfort and care for
him in his declining years. He was
baptized at Parkham, Maine, January
1st, 1832, and walked in "newness of
life" for more than sixty-three years.
He was Deacon, and Sunday School
Superintendent for a number of years
at Tonica. He was Deacon of the Ur-
bana church for twenty-five years, re-
ceiving ordination with a number of
others on the last night of the first
pastorate of Rev. G. M. Shott, June
9th, 1884. His death came May 19th,
1895, at the advanced age of 87 years.
There are many still in the church
to "rise up and call him blessed."
63
BUILDING COMMITTEE
Reading from left to right: M. D. Busey, E. M. Knowlton, N. A. Riley,
R. A. Webber, J. M. Lewis, L. A. McLean, L. G. Hubbard, E. S. Hall.
64
"All the people dedicated
o
Dedication of the First Building.
From the files of the Urbana Union
of January 3, 1856, the following no-
tice is taken: "Last Sabbath the Bap-
tist Church in this place was dedicat-
ed by Rev. Mr. Thomas of Blooming-
ton. The services were made very in-
teresting throughout by the presence
of Mr. Thomas, who is a gentleman,
eloquent in the pulpit, and affable
among the people. His versality of
talent was made exceedingly useful in
this instance. A debt of $1,154.81 for
material, and work on the church, re-
mained unpaid, with no perceptible
means of paying it. The whole amount
was assumed by ^individuals placing
the church out of debt at once. Much
credit is due the exertions of . Mr.
Thomas, who will long be remember-
ed by our people." This church build-
ing was the first of any pretensions in
the county. It was the only church
building with a belfry for many years.
Many scenes of blessed spiritual reap-
ing have been seen within those old
historic walls. Many a hundred souls
were born within those walls, and
many an anthem of high praise to God
has teen echoed back by them. The
first baptistry indoors in the history
of the church was built during the
pastorate of Rev. G. M. Shott, by Mr.
Martin Kaucher, who was the first, or
nearly the first to enter its waters.
Dedication of the Second Building.
May 29th, 1896. By actual count,
1,350 people crowded into the new
meeting house to participate in the
dedication exercises. Rev. Myron W.
Haynes, D.D., of Chicago, preached the
dedication sermon from Luke 5:11:
"And when they had brought their
ships to land they forsook all, and
the house of the Lord."
followed him."
Among the duties of the consecrated
life he emphasized the privilege of
giving, and then asked for $3,000 to
pay the balance of debt on the church.
In a few minutes $3,237 was pledged.
Deacon Hall spoke of the harmony
that had prevailed during the erection
of the building. N. A. Riley, treasur-
er, reported that a total of $23,784.94
had been raised leaving $3,000 to com-
plete the payment of all bills. Of this
amount Mrs. J. C. Thomas of the
Ladies' Extension Society reported
that the Society had paid $888 on the
building fund. In the. afternoon at 3
o'clock the auditorium was crowded to
the limit, 1,500 people being in at-
tendance.
Ministers of the various denomina-
tions of the Twin Cities were on the
platform, and some of them made rep-
resentative speeches congratulating
the church upon its splendid achieve-
ment. President Draper of the Uni-
versity of Illinois was one of the
speakers, and made an excellent ad-
dress, portions of which only can be
given here. "You have passed a gra-
cious compliment upon the University
in giving it a voice on this auspicious
occason. The toleration of creed, not
the absence of it, is an element in the
state, and in the University. It is
appropriate that the state in which
toleration has reached its fullest
fruitage should offer amends to the
denomination which has suffered most
from religious intolerance, and perse-
cution. It has been true of the Bap-
tist denomination that the blood of
the martyrs has been the seed of the
church. The state congratulates this
church today. The University is very
dependent upon the virility, and
strength of the religious life of the
Twin Cities. We have 900 young men,
65
and women brought here each year,
and it is a great charge. The Univer-
sity is proud today that the planning
of this beautiful structure was done
by one of its worthy sons, Stanford
Hall, architect. Many added children
gather around its knee; may its in-
fluence count, forward, not backward,
up not down, out, not in, and all lend
a hand."
Dr. M. W. Haynes then engineered
another collection and subscription
covering all the needs of the new edi-
fice, making the total subscriptions
for the day from over 200 subscrib-
ers, $4,235. At night another full
house was gathered in the dim light of
the side lights of the building, and
waited with great expectancy to see
the electric lights turned on the great
central chandelier. Rev. W. H. Stead-
man, D.D., offered the dedicatory
prayer, and many will never forget the
tender pleading of that prayer, for
God's blessing to rest upon the new
building as a means towards the effi-
ciency of the church, and its work.
Dr. Haynes then preached another im-
pressive sermon. The events of this
great day in the history of the church
mark the beginning of a new condition
of things.
With such splendid facilities for the
propagation of the gospel to multi-
tudes, the responsibility of the church
to so live, and teach as to draw the
needy people under the influence of
the teaching of this great pulpit is
very evident. Recording angels may
well hover over this scene of many
tears and triumphs, to carry back the
tidings of repenting souls.
D. F. Carnahan the church took its
initial step in this necessary enter-
prise. May 4th, 1873, a committee of
PARSONAGES.
Half the battle of long settlement
in the pastorate is won when the
church provides a comfortable home
and keeps it in good repair for the
pastor. During the pastorate of Rev.
Old Parsonage Erected 1873
21 persons was appointed to take
steps toward securing a parsonage.
The next record concerning the
parsonage is December 10th, 1873.
"The Trustees were instructed to bor-
row $450 for the purpose of paying
the debt on the parsonage and to
mortgage the church property to se-
cure the same. April 3rd, 1875, shows
the next record, the committee on
ways and means of meeting the dues
to the loan association and discharg-
ing the parsonage debt asked for
further time. June 5th, 1875, the
church agreed to pay in 60 days from
date without interest, $25 in full of all
demands for "rodding" the parsonage.
This small debt caused no end of
needless confusion, and was a wet
blanket to many a subsequent enter-
prise in the days while the memory
of it lasted. The parsonage was paid
for, costing about $2,500.
March 22nd, 1905, the trustees re-
ported a gift froni Sister Artemesia
Busey of from $3,500 to $4,000 as a
parsonage fund on condition that the
church would furnish a suitable lot.
This generous gift was accepted and
the entire congregation proceeded to
visit Sister Busey, and personally
66
Mrs. A. S. Busey
thank her for her generous and timely
gift. It is highly fitting that a brief
biography of "Mother Busey," as she
is affectionately called, should be
handed down to the successive gener-
ations in the church, who will read
this history. At the time of writing
this sketch she is in her 87th year,
and while she suffers somewhat on
account of impaired sight, she is
otherwise remarkably active, and at-
tends her church services with con-
sistent regularity. She is quite sure
that she came into the church under
Elder G. W. Riley in his second pas-
torate, which would be between 1858
and 1867, and she is certain that she
was baptized in what is now called
Crystal Lake. She is close on the
heels of the oldest living members of
the church, and may yet outlive them.
She certainly took a fine way to make
her gift one that would bring out the
thanksgiving of all who shall ever live
in the splendid new parsonage.
GEORGE BRASH.
New Parsonage, 1905.
George W. Brash is one of the best
known men around town, as well as
in the church. It is probable that he
is one of the oldest members of the
First Baptist Sunday school, having
joined it fifty years ago. He was born
March 17th, 1858. He has been all
these years more or less interested in
the church and its work. When the
new church was dedicated he became
its janitor, and with the exception of
about two years he has had charge of
the church for 18 years. It is perfect-
67
ly natural to see him in and around
the building, and the trustees give him
a wider latitude of freedom than is
usually allowed. As to how he has
done his work the years of observa-
tion on the part of the multitudes that
have passed in and out of the building
will testify as well as his long years of
continuous service. While practically
a young man he will rank with those
of longest recollections of the early
days of the church.
CHAPTER X.
FIRST BAPTIST SUNDAY-SCHOOL
"So they read in the book of the law of the Lord distinctly and gave the
sense, and caused them to understand the reading."
URBANA BAPTIST SUNDAY
SCHOOL.
C. W. Richards, Superintendent.
As far as can be ascertained from
records the Baptists took part in a
union school till the church building
was completed in 1856, when a Bap-
tist school was organized. This school
has always flourished, and large num-
bers have been gathered into the
church through its teaching. The ef-
fect of a weekly teachers' meeting for
most of the life of the school, can-
not be estimated. The church is the
head of the school, and elects the
leading officers, and holds the balance
of power, when the school needs ad-
vice, and special help. Early, this
school felt the influence of the work
of B. F. Jacobs, our great Sunday
School worker, and organizer. B. F.
Jacobs is the father of our Interna-
tional system of lessons, which have
stood the test as no other plan has
so far. In connection with this in-
ternational idea of similar lessons
have grown up many other institutions
such as institutes, interdenomination-
al meeting for groups, and neigh-
borhoods, that have done incalculable
good for our cause. Early in the
progress of this new idea came that of
organized classes and the Urbana
school can boast of such an organ-
ization as early as any. Our school is
well organized, as the following list
of names will indicate:
The following is a list of the or-
ganized classes with their names and
the teachers who are now teaching
them. There are but few classes in
the school not organized. The oldest
in point of history is first given and
the rest in the order of their rooms,
from right to left of the school room.
68
ORGANIZED CLASSES
LOVE AND SERVICE.
She chose his service for the Lord of Love
Had chosen her. and paid the awful price
For her redemption! and sought her out,
And set her free, and clothed her gloriously,
And put his royal ring upon her hand,
And crowns of loving kindness on her head."
This class began with the history
of the first church building in 1856,
when the Sunday School was first or-
ganized. At the first it consisted of
both men and women. The following
are some of the teachers of the class:
Rev. D.- F. Carnahan, Rev. W. H.
Steadman, D.D., Deacon Dudley Mc-
McClain, Deacon Allen McClain, Dea-
con James Myers, J. P. Blue, Mrs.
Hattie Gere, Mrs. Amanda Allen, Mrs.
L. G. Hubbard, Mrs. Fraflcis Renfrew,
Deacon E. S. Hall, and Deacon J. S.
Hall. Mrs. Nettie Hunt is the teacher
at present.
The class was organized in 1909 by
J. S. Hall, and called the Ladies' Bi-
ble Class. Mrs. Waller was elected
president, and Mrs. Mary Lee, secre-
tary, and treasurer, both serving two
years. In 1911 Mrs. Nettie Hunt was
elected teacher; Mrs. Ella Button,
president; Mrs. Mary Lee, secretary
and treasurer. May 20t'h, 1912, the
class met in the church and reorgan-
ized, changing the name to "The Love
and Service Bible Class of the First
Baptist Church." The class adopted
the geranium as the class flower, and
the name of the class is its motto,
"Love and Service." One of the works
of this class is to give flowers to the
sick, and "shut ins."
The present enrollment of the class
is 41, and its average attendance 20.
The officers for 1912 were as fol-
lows:
Mrs. Nettie Hunt, teacher.
Mrs. Fred Hubbard, assistant teach-
er.
Mrs. Ella Sutton, president.
Mrs. Dora Van Doren, vice-presi-
dent.
Mrs. Alice Freeman, secretary.
Mrs. Mary Lee, treasurer.
Mrs. Margaret Walker, libarian.
Mrs. Fred Hubbard, reporter.
Mrs. Elsie Sharp, entertainer.
June 17th, 1913, the class met with
Mrs. Artemesia Busey for a picnic
supper and for the election of officers.
The officers of 1912 were elected as a
whole for 1913.
"OUR CLASS"
"One
OUR CLASS.
In 1868 Mrs. Kate Glasgow organiz-
ed a class of girls and taught them
until January 1st, 1874, when on ac-
count of her age she asked L. A. Mc-
Lean, then superintendent of the
school, to take it, which he did.
This was the first class to organize,
and was the beginning of cass organiz-
by one."
ation in the school. Mr. McLean has
taught the class ever since, with the
exception of several months this year
while sick when the work was carried
on by Mrs. L. A. McLean with excel-
lent success, and she is and has been
for about two years and over recogniz-
ed as the assistant teacher, and while
Mr. McLean does the teaching she
69
does the "Mothering," and is the ad-
viser of the girls, a position which
she is so able to fill.
The prime object is to lead the
L. A. McLean
members to Christ, and then build
them up in Christ, and the funda-
mental principles of right living and
of preparing for the time when they
shall take charge of homes of their
own and of making the burdens of
life lighter for their parents. This is
the fifth generation which has been
taken in the class, and as fast as they
are prepared they are graduated out
as teachers, or workers. Over two
hundred and twenty-five girls have
passed through the class. Over fifty
heads of families in Urbana have been
members. One of the graduates not
long since said to Mr. McLean, "Did
you know that out of the large num-
ber of the girls of the class who have
been married, there has not been a
single divorce?"
The teacher found that this was
true with only one exception. The
teacher is very proud of his work done
in the past thirty-nine years, and re-
gards this as his life work.
"AGOMA"_STUDENT CLASS
AGO MA.
"The heart of the righteous studieth to answer."
A student class was organized Sep-
tember, 1906-1907 by Dr. E. G. Dexter.
In the summer of 1907, he moved to
Porto Rico. In 1907-1908 the class
was taught by E. S. Hall. During
this period the class grew in numbers,
due largely to the efforts of Rev. Roy
G. Merrifield, student pastor for 1907-
1908. He divided his time between
this and the Champaign church, urg-
ing students to attend the church, and
Sunday School services. It was dur-
ing this term that the class was or-
ganized as the "Agoma" class. In 1910-
1911 the class was taught by Prof. J.
G. Van Zandt. International Lessons
were used as before with special em-
phasis on what was called laboratory
work. He was always careful to make
present day applications to the lesson
class some practical work to do dur-
ing the week.
In 1911-1912 the class was taught
by Dr. C. S. Wilson, who was not in
favor of the International Lessons for
adult classes. He lead the class in a
study of the "Life of Christ," by Bur-
ton and Matthiews, with a harmony of
the Gospels, by Stevens and Burton.
He urged the reading of an entire
book at one sitting before taking it up
in parts for study.
The class is made up almost entire-
ly of students, though during the year
1912-1913, the "old men's class" has
been somewhat disbanded for want of
a teacher, and frequently sit with
the "Agomas." It is a "co-ed" class
and cordially invites students, espe-
cially to its meetings every Sunday
truths. Every Sunday he gave the morning. It is an organized class with
70
George Mahn as president, and Miss
Elsie Shott as vice president, Miss
Bertha Dunn as secretary, and Miss
Nora Parker, treasurer. Since Sep-
tember, 1912, the pastor, Rev. Gideon
M. Shott, D.D., has been the teacher,
and much attached to his class. He
teaches by lecture, and aims to take
the widest possible range of instruc-
tion in order to prepare each member
of the class to become a teacher, here,
or elsewhere
The enrollment is about 35, with the
attendance about the same as the en-
rollment. A special rally will be made
about the time this book gets into the
hands of its readers, to make that
class up to one hundred. A most de-
lightful evening was spent by the class
at the parsonage at the closing of the
school year. These class meetings
may be held quarterly with the begin-
ning of the school year in September.
TRI-MU.
For it's something' to start; it's something 1 to bring
Your brain, soul, and muscle to strive in the ring;
It's something to fall, when the foeman is stout.
But it's "nothing"' to stand at the platT and "strike out."
J. S. Hall.
On April 18, 1907, a class in the
Sunday School was organized for the
younger married people of the church,
by Mrs. Ida Meigs. Its first name
was, "New Movement Adult Bible
Class," changed to Tri-Mu, May 8,
1907. It was organized with a mem-
bership of 8. Mrs. Ida Meigs was its
first president, which position she
held till she removed from Urbana,
September 1st, 1912. Mrs. Maud Mil-
ler has been its president since that
time. The first secretary was W. W.
Bond, the following occupying that
office for longer or shorter terms:
Mr. Merrick, Minnie Hubbard,
Verne Smith, and its present secre-
tary, E. T. Lanham. The first teacher
was Miss Wenona Benefiel, the next,
Professor Woolman, the next Prof.
William Dietrick, and the next Deacon
J. S. Hall, its present teacher. The
class meets monthly on Tuesday night
for business, and sociability, and the
ladies of the class meet a part of the
year weekly for social entertainment.
Its present enrollment is GO. Its name
implies, "Muscle, Mind, and Morals."
Its motto is: "I am only one, but I am
one; I cannot do everything, but I can
do something; what I can do, I ought
to do, and by the grace of God, I will
do."
71
INTERMEDIATE DEPARTMENT
Class. organized. Teacher.
Love and Service 1856..Mrs. N. Hunt
Our Class 1868 L. A. McLean
Tri-Mu April 18, 1907 J. S. Hall
Agoma Sept. 1906~..Rev. G. M. Shott
Baptist Boosters-Howard Ammerman
Baptist Volunteers. ...Mark VanDoren
True Blues Miss Elizabeth Webber
The Baptist Club..Mrs. Emma Bennett
Willing Workers Mrs. C. Hissong
Royal Leaders J. L. Hissong
Judson Mission Class Elsie Shott
Golden Rule Class Feme Mitchell
What I Can Class..Mrs. Flora Cottrell
Buds of Promise Ethel Stevenson
Dorcas Club Miss Lura Parker
Excelsior Club Miss Stella Renfro
Willing Workers Miss Grace Roney
PRIMARY DEPARTMENT.
'A little child shall lead them."
Miss Anna Webber
As far as can be learned, Mrs.
Amanda Allen was the first primary
teacher, being followed by Mrs. Hoi-
lister and the Misses Mayme McClain,
Alice Fugate and Maggie Riley. Miss
Nellie McLean, now Mrs. Nellie Lum-
ley, took charge of the work in 1882,
and continued until 1889. Mrs. J. A.
Leavitt and Mrs. Smith, the latter the
wife of the pastor, had charge dur-
ing the next two years. Mrs. Fannie
Dicken followed in '92 and '93 and
was succeeded by Mrs. J. F. Mills,
in '94. Mrs. Belle Conner followed
and taught till the summer of '02.
Miss Myrta Clark taught from '02 till
June, '05 when Miss Anna Webber
took up the work and is still in
charge. In the old church the pri-
mary met in the little room at the
northwest end of the church, using
the little red benches so well remem-
bered by those who attended at that
time. After the new church was built
the primary occupied the rooms in
the basement known as the dining
room and ladies' parlor. The De-
partment teaching force now includes
the superintendent, secretary and
seven teachers. The records show
that since June, '05, 640 children have
been enrolled in this department, and
131 have been promoted. The pres-
ent enrollment is 125, 25 having just
been promoted. Since 1905, two
teachers have passed to the great be-
yond, namely: Miss Grace Hall and
Miss Effle Winchester. There have
been no deaths among the children
enrolled during this time. A great
many have come into the Primary
from the Cradle Roll since the or-
ganization of the Cradle Roll, in
April, 1913.
72
HOME DEPARTMENT.
"Thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them
when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when
thou liest down, and when thou risest up."
The Home Department of our Sun-
day School was organized January 1, ]
1901, by Miss Nelle Hubbard, who was
made its first superintendent, and
held that office till January, 1913. In
1907, Branch iSunday School No. 1
was organized on East California
street, and many of the Home De-
partment members gave regularly to
its support. It then numbered about
75 members. At the beginning of
1913, Miss Nelle Hubbard became
superintendent of the Cunningham
Avenue School and resigned the su-
perintendency of the Home Depart-
ment, and Mrs. G. M. Shott was ap-
pointed superintendent.
This department is calculated to
bring the Bible back to the home and
create a desire on the part of parents
to teach and help their children to
understand its precious truth. Every
sincere believer will welcome and
help forward this great work. Every
member, of the church should be en-
rolled in it, and take the readings,
and report to the visitors of the Home
Department so that a perfect report
can be made for each Annual Direct-
ory.
CRADLE ROLL
" Only a tender flower
Sent us to rear,
Only a life to love
While we are here.
Only a baby small.
Never at rest.
Small, but how dear to us,
God knoweth best."
This department was organized
April, 1903, by Miss Nelle Hubbard,
with 20 members. No graduation
exercises into the Beginners Depart-
ment have been held, but when a child
enters the main school, a certificate
to that effect is given.
Miss Nellie Hubbard was its first
Superintendent and Mrs. Mae Creek
is its present superintendent. Twen-
ty-four have just been graduated
from the Beginners department to the
main school. The enrollment at
present is 104.
Extreme age and tender childhood
meet in this Sunday school. The lit-
tle child clinging to another's hand
and the old man and woman leaning
on the staff, are common sights. An
orchestra takes a very prominent part
in the musical part of the Sunday
School. At the head of the Sunday
School music department on most
Sunday mornings one may see Mr. N.
A. Riley wielding the baton, and lead-
ing the singing with as much of his
old time energy as the whitening
years will admit. He stands as
straight and steps as light as when
in 1865 he began to lead the old choir.
It was about that time that he began
leading the music of the Sunday
school. Fifty years of song!
The following superintendents serv-
ed at a time when no records were
kept or they have been lost: 1856-
1860, J. N. Wilson; 1861, A. J. Allen;
1862, E. S. Packard; 1863, George
Browning; 1864-1868, A. J. Allen;
1869-1870, L. A. McLean. The follow-
73
ing table shows the rest of the super- gether with all the statistics that are
intendents up to the present time, to- available.
"The branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified.'
BRANCH SUNDAY SCHOOL NO. 1.
Branch Sunday School No. 1 was or-
ganized October 27th, 1907, in a small
dwelling house situated at 806 East
California street. Deacon William
Gardner was the first superintendent,
and he continued in office till his re-
moval from the city, about seven
months later. Walter Bond, Rev. E.
E. Gulick, T. L. Warrick, W. E. Carn-
ahan, and Joel Coffey followed as su-
perintendents. In connection with
this school, Mrs. Catherine Hissong,
one of the teachers, organized a
"Mother's Club," which helped very
much socially and financially. From
the first there was a good interest,
and good feeling in the neighborhood
toward the school. Several professed
conversion from the school and many
came into the home school, some join-
ing the church. After three years'
work the school was abandoned for
lack of interest on the part of the
church, and not on the part of the
neighborhood. During the whole time
the school paid all its regular ex-
penses, paid some on the rent, and
gave something each year for mis
sions. What a power that work might
have been if it had been kept up.
"Each one resembled
CHILDREN OF THE KING.
Sunday, October 8th, 1888, a meeting
was held in the church for the pur-
pose of organizing a society to be
known as "The Children of the
King." Twenty-nine persons united
in the formation, and elected Nellie
McLean as president. George Hub-
bard, secretary; Flora Ross, treasur-
er; Rev. T. F. Leavitt. instructor.
Meetings were held with regularity
from the organization till January,
1890, when the only records in the
possession of your committee sudden-
ly stop, leaving all the rest of the
pages in the book blank.
BAPTIST BOYS' BRIGADE.
the children of a king."
The society had one special good
thing in its make-up, and that was the
study of the Word of God under com-
petent instructors. Concerts and com-
mittees on various subjects enough to
confuse older heads must have had
something to do with its sudden
death. The pages of this society will
very clearly show why there are so
many people who think social work is
all the church work there is to do.
Too much care cannot be taken in the
starting of new societies to put them
on a high and safe basis, and teach
them the right relations of the church
and kingdom of Christ.
February 28th, 1903, the Baptist
Boys' Brigade was organized by Will
Groom and Glenn ridge. The age line
was set from 10-17, and by May of
the same year the enrollment was 70.
Col. R. J. Lewis of the Iowa State Col-
lege, assisted in drilling the brigade
for special entertainments. No further
records can be found except a refer-
ence in the Association Minutes of
1904, "an excellent Boys' Brigade is
maintained."
74
SUNDAY SCHOOL TABLE
HO
pq
o
3
CD
H
CD
3
L. A. McLean. 1871
L. A. McLean 1872
L. A. McLean. : 1873
L. A. McLean 1874
L. A. McLean 1875
L. A. McLean., ; 1876
L. A. McLean 1877
L. A. McLean 1878
Allen McClain.:. 1879
Allen McClain 1880
Ozias Riley 1881
J. P. Blue 1882
J. P. Blue ; 1883
J. P. Blue 1884
J. P. Blue 1885
L. A. McLean 1886
L. A. McLean 1887
L. A. McLean 1888
L. A. McLean 1889
J. P. Blue 1890
Mrs. M. L. Julian 1881!
C. A. Tufts 1892
C. A. Tufts 1893
C. A. Tufts 1894
C. A. Tufts 1895
C. A. Tufts 1896
C. A. Tufts 1897
C. A. Tufts 1898
J. S. Hall 1900
J. S. Hall 1901
J. S. Hall : 1902
J. S. Hall 1903
J. S. Hall 1904
J. S. Hall 1905
C. W. Richards 1906
C. W. Richards 1907
C. W. Richards 1908
C. W. Richards 1909
C. W. Richards 1910
C. W. Richards 1911
C. W. Richards 1912
C. W. Richards ... .. 1913
200
136
175
250
300
215
28350
300
300
310
250
22J250
18J250
22
22
22
26
28
29
31
30
29
34
34
250
250
255
166
192
189
250
232
287
348
225
258
299
277
275
301
280
406
555
425
575
500
490
120
114
155
210
200
273
240
182
178
174
164
160
160
160
152
133
170
157
231
172
195
225
168
159
150
162
175
180
194
350
385
370
387
300
350
10
115
100
105
20.50
22.70
28.90
25.00
12.50
6.21
17.20
11.59
20.00
9.08
3.40
15.00
35.37
16.50
12.39
66.36
50.00
75.00
63.00
60.00
100.00
96.65
98.00
79.25
75.00
75.00
97.50
116.18
94.22
120.36
134.50
124.95
101.27
106.00
125.00
108.59
163.22
179.00
191.63
190.71
184.89
250.00
450.00
450.00
75.00
63.00
60.00
100.00
96.65
118.50
101.95
103.90
100.00
110.00
122.39
111.42
104.53 116.12
140.36
134.50
134.03
104.67
121.00
160.37
125.09
163.22
191.39
191.63
190.71
184.89
250.00
450.00
516.36
450.00)450.00
450.00(500.00
275.00J275.00
372.70 5189.45 55G2.15
75
CHAPTER XL
BAPTIST YOUNG PEOPLE'S SOCIETIES
"We study that we may serve."
Pres. S. A. Rowland.
About the year 1878 the Carman
family came to Champaign, where
Rev. I. N. Carman was pastor for sev-
eral years. John C. Carman, then a
mere lad, caught a vision of a young
people's organization that should be-
come state wide, and perhaps world
wide. It was called Youths' Chris-
tian Association. It was organized in
Indianapolis in 1876. Its distinguish-
ing principle for which it was organ-
ized was Bible reading, and interpre
tation, and the application of the
things they learned to personal work.
A more earnest and serious company
of young people it would be hard to
find. Brother John C. Carman was
the acknowledged leader, with officers
under him in the various departments.
B. A. Cushman was the first president
in the society in our church. While
it was interdenominational, and other
churches had similar organizations,
the Baptist young people had the
largest, and indeed some of other de-
nominations were members in the
Baptist society. Miss Jennie Monett
(Burton) was the state representative.
Miss Nellie Carman, and Miss Nellie
McLean taught children's meetings
along somewhat the same lines as
the Jxiniors of today are taught. Part
of the training of the Y. C. A. was
how to conduct business meetings,
make motions, organize deliberative
bodies, and conventions. Some of the
best workers in the First church, and
in the community, were able to take
a higher place in the history of the
churches of the community because of
the high standards sustained at that
time. Many of the older members
who are active in the First church to-
day were members of that early so-
ciety. About this time, February 2,
1881, the Christian Endeavor society
was organized, and soon eclipsed, and
in 1885 absorbed the Y. C. A., though
at its best C. E. has never laid out
such a field of work, nor prosecuted it
in as close, and careful way, as the
earlier, and smaller society. As was
natural, and to be expected, most of
the societies of our Baptist young
people, went into this new Endeavor
movement, and it was pushed with
such vigor that it seemed to be draw-
ing all our youth away from our dis-
tinctive church doctrines, and work.
In self-defense of the denomniation it
was necessary that another organiza-
76
tion should be effected that would be
as wide in its scope as the former so-
ciety. Dr. F. L. Wilkins and others
met in the Second Baptist church of
Chicago July 7th, 1891, and organized
the Baptist Young People's Union of
America. Launched in great prayer,
and caution, it soon became a strong
force in the field, and rallied from
5,000 to 10,000 people at its annual
gatherings. Many Baptists who went
into the Endeavor movement came out
of that, and took up the distinctly de-
nominational work, and added some
features in the way of special Chris-
tian culture studies that have been,
and are still, without a peer in any of
the other movements.
The tides of interest in our local so-
ciety has ebbed, and flowed from one
position to another, and while it has
profitted by some of the best things in
all these forms, it has never serious-
ly set itself to the business of largest
efficiency in any of them. As nearly
as possible the dates will be given,
and such statistics as are available,
as to its officers and what money was
raised, and other special matters of
history.
,lt is to be regretted here that many
of the dates that are on some of the
books are only partial dates, and no
orderly manner of keeping records has
ever been adopted. One advantage in
writing this history is to create in all
clerks and secretaries a desire to keep
records for the sake of the future his-r
torian.
No records of any Young Peoples
organization can be found from 1880
or earlier till 1892. Burritt A. Cush-
man was the president of the earliest
soriety. In 1892 Clara Lee was secre-
tary, and from 189G to 1900 F. C. Hub-
bard was secretary, and no name of
president is given since 1892-1903.
Lulu Gardner was secretary and in
1905, Ombra Herriott and 1906, Pearl
Webber. The presidents since 1907
have been as follows: 1907, J. C.
Thorpe; 1908, J. C. Thorpe; 1909,
Howard Ammerman; 1910, F. W. Gar-
rett; 1911, Joel Coffey; 1913, Earl
Strong; 1912, S. A. Rowland; secretary
for 1909, Horace Ingalls; 1910, Flora
M. Parker; 1911, Edna Wardall; 1912,
Ruah Loveless; 1913, Sadie Jones.
The average membership during the
years where any record can be found
for the work of the Young People in
G in all is 72. Money given to mis-
sions, $684.65. Current expenses,
$310.45. Total money reported on
records found, $995.10. This amount
includes the pledge to Dr. Timpany, in
India. As this history goes to print
the B. Y. P. U. of America is in ses-
sion at Brooklyn, New York, where
doubtless many good motions will be
carried in view of greater efficiency
the kingdom.
JUNIOR SOCIETY
"Wist ye not that I must be
The earliest report of a Junior C. E.
society in the minutes of the Bloom-
field Association was in 1895. Miss
Clara Cranberry was leader. A table
of membership is given in last two
columns of Senior Society table. Miss
Lucia Hall was leader in 1896. No
leader is reported for 1897. Miss
Edith Fenner was leader for 1899 and
about my father's business?"
1900. There is no report in minutes
for any year since. Tne church direc-
tory for 1902 contains some items.
The society collected some fruit and
jelly, and the girls dressed dolls for
Miss McKean of New York City.
Twenty-three took C. C. C. work and
three completed the four years' work.
Total amount raised during the year,
77
$1.06. In 1903 the Junior boys showed
much inteerst in distributing good lit-
erature and the girls dressed dolls for
Miss McKean. The Juniors planted
nasturtium seed, whose flowers were
brought to the church during the
summer. In the autumn interesting
graduation exercises were held for
eleven Juniors, who . graduated into
the Senior society. Twenty-two Jun-
iors successfully passed the C. C. C.
examinations. Total amount of money
raised, $31.21. Margaret Fenner,
leader. In 1904 it was noted that the
boys and girls met separately in the
study of the C. C. C. and 22 examina-
tion papers were sent to headquarters.
Fourteen Juniors have been received
into the church by baptism. Amount
raised, $31.57. Margaret Fenner,
leader. There are no reports again till
1909, when it is noted that a Junior
Baptist church was organized, April
4th, 1909. Meetings were held each
Sunday afternoon except in August,
with an average attendance of about
30. Amount raised, $7.77. 1910, no
report. In 1911, mention is made of
special mission studies, but no statis-
tics are given except the enrollment
of 40. 1912 the Junior Society of C.
E. was re-organized as a Junior B. Y.
P. U. Mrs. Catherine Hissong, leader.
Enrollment, 38; amount raised, $8.19.
No examinations in C. C. C. work tak-
en this year. Society adjourned for
the summer, June 1st. Among the
leaders for' whom dates are uncertain
are Mrs. Pilcher, Miss Nettie Roberts,
Mr. Miller, Miss Verne Mitchell, Mrs.
F. F. Leonard, and Mrs. Burt Hays.
The membership is referred to nine
times, making an average of active
members, 20; associate, 30. The high-
est active membership reported is 40
and highest associate is 40. It is to
be regretted that the records have not
been kept.
" Wherewithal shall a young- man cleanse his way?
By taking heed thereto according to thy word."
INTERMEDIATE SOCIETY
February, 1911, cards were sent out
to a number of the young people, ask-
ing them to meet for the organization
of an Intermediate Society of C. E.
March 12th, 1911, sixteen met, and
were organized by Mr. Quist and the
pastor. Mark Van Doren was the
first president. Fifteen charter mem-
bers soon increased to 45. The new
society met each Sunday night at
6:15. The vacation of the first sum-
mer, practically suspended the society
for three months. September 6th,
1911, the society reorganized with
Dudley Kirkland as president. They
raised some money, and pledged $5
for church support, and proposed to
make a similar gift to missions.
No further records can be found, ex-
cept the very lamentable fact that
only a very few of the Intermediates
ever attend the 'Senior Society to
which they are eligible, and many of
them are members of the church.
Many efforts have been made to get
them to line up with the Senior So-
ciety without avail. Only a few have
so identified themselves. There was
no disposition to reorganize this so-
ciety in the autumn of 1912.
78
CHAPTER XII.
MISSIONS
CENTENNIAL
" Weep not that the world changes did it keep
A stable changeless state, 'twere cause indeed to weep.
CENTENNIAL BAPTIST MISSION.
Centennial Erected 1876
Elder W. H. Steadman, early in his
ministry with the First Church be-
gan Bible readings, with a view to
trained evangelistic services. Manv
of the brethren caught the idea, und
went out into the neighboring school
houses, and reproduced, with their
own personal comments, the practical
things they had learned in the pastor's
class. The Centennial School House
was one of the strategic points for
such a service. Very successful
meetings were held there. In 1878
Elder Steadman ably assisted by
Deacon Allan McClain, held a meet-
ing in the school house, when about
60 were united with the First church,
nearly all by baptism. During the
winter of 1879 the school house was
closed against the work. Elder
Steadman, Brethren Myers, Apperson,
McClain, and others, set to work, and
soon had a comfortable building paid
for, holding about 300 persons. Broth-
er Allen McClain took charge of this
mission, and held several successful
revivals, and added a large number to
the church. Pursuant to a pervious
announcement, a maeting was held in
the Centennial meeting house, .UfiY
12. 1885, for the purpose of organiz-
ing a church. Letters of dismission
from the First church had been gi-xrt-
ed to the following: F. P. Apperson,
S. M. Boyd, Elizabeth Boyd, Patience
Apperson, Katie Boley, Susan Brown,
John Griffith, May Griffith, Martha
Hughes, William D. Siade, John Wat-
pon, Louisiana Deck, Mary E. Shuman,
Daniel Grimes, Jennie Brown, Ebert
Brown, Uriah B. Ward, Peter Good,
Lo/lnda Watson, Lucy Slade. An ad-
visory committee consisting of Deacon
G. A. Walker, Deacon J. W. Cushman,
F. M. Snyder, and James T. Butler
were sent from the First Church. John
Watson was chosen moderator, and
Miss Nettie Fitzgerald, clerk. William
Slade and F. P. Apperson were elect-
ed deacons. F. P. Apperson, William
Slade, Daniel Grimes, and G. A. Walk-
er from First Church, were eletced
trustees. The New Hampshire Cov-
enant and articles of faith were adopt-
ed. On October 10th, 1885, at business
meeting, a difference of opinion on the
matter of financing the church was
warmly discussed. The decision was
to take up a collection whenever tho
money was needed.
Deacon Allen McClain was spoken
of as Pastor, and money was paid to
79
him for such service, but there is no
record of his call. November 28, 1885,
they decided not to take up a collec-
tion on Sunday evenings. A motion
was made to adopt "foot-washing" as
an ordinance in the church but ac-
tion was deferred, and the matter is
never referred to again. December
10, 1887, it was decided to close doors
to outsiders, on business meeting
nights. January 16, 1888, the follow-
ing was adopted, "It is the one that
leads meeting to move the stand about
over the church, to try to get the peo-
ple to keep order, if that won't do
they are to try them by the law." It
was also decided that "it is the duty
of the clerk to count the money, and
put it on the lap of the treasurer.
August 20, 1889, the membership was
30. At that time they paid $30 for
missions, and the Sunday school ex-
pense was also $30. January 31, 1897,
a Young People's Society was organ-
ized. John Archdeacon was elected
president. Several references are
made between the years 1897 and
1898 to the presence, and service of
Rev. J. F. Mills of the First Church.
February 29, 1899, a motion was
adopted to pay Brother Campbell
$300 per annum as pastor. On account
of inadequate records it is impossible
to continue the history. The work is
being kept up, however, by Rev. Ed-
gar Woolhouse, who held a very help-
ful meeting there in December of
1912, with (considerable encourage-
ment. The property is still held in
trust by the trustees of the First
Church, Urbana, and cannot be dispos-
ed of on account of terms of donor.
Permission was given February 2,
1878, to the members of the church
living at Centennial, to observe the
Lord's Supper. A nickering interest
has been kept up here, since the work
was started, veering between union-
ism and denominationalism. They
have not been exempt from times of
trial, and discipline, and deep feeling.
They have proven themselves very
human, but have enjoyed many rich
seasons of reviving grace. The prox-
imity of the church to the new inter-
urban car line, with a consequent in-
crease in the value of property in that
neighborhood, would seem to justify a
special effort to hold the field against
a greater day of prospertity. The cut
shows the building freshened up with
a new coat of paint, and other im-
provements.
Deacon Allen McClain
ALLEN M'CLAIN.
Allen McClain was born in Harrison
County, Ky., May 4th, 1823. Joseph
and Mary McClain, his parents, mov-
ed to Bethel, Ohio, when he was four
years old. He came to this state in
1833, and settled in Edgar County, Illi-
nois, where he and his brother Dudley
and brother-in-law Elder G. W. Riley
worked at the cabinet makers' trade.
In 1864 he located in Urbana, where
80
he continued to reside till his death,
November 28th, 1899. He was married
to Elizabeth Busey, January 28th,
1864. He professed conversion in
1848, and was baptised the same year
by his Brother-in-law Elder G. W.
Riley, into the fellowship of the old
Bloomfleld Baptist church. He gave
himself to church work from the time
he was 20 years old. He was one of
the most familiar figures in the Ur-
bana church for many years. He was
a man of strong will, but pessimistic
at times. He believed himself called
to preach the gospel, and recited his
evidences of it oftimes to his friends,
and in the experience meetings of the
church, and to his Pastor Elder Shott.
February 14th, 1883, the Pastor ad-
vised the church to license Deacon
Allen McClain to preach the gospel,
which the church did by a unanimous
vote, and Deacon McClain took charge
of the Centennial work.
Several meetings of special interest
were held at Centennial with good re-
sults, and quite a number united with
the First church as a result of the
work done there. His home was al-
ways open to the preachers, and was
often the scene of hospitality. His
table was always well loaded, and his
guests urged to partake liberally of
~is bounty.
His residence was between the
Twin Cities, and he had many ac-
quaintances in Champaign as well as
in Urbana. In 1883 he took letters for
himself and family to the Champaign
Baptist church, where he continued to
attend church up to the time of his
death in November 28th, 1899.
The Historical Committee is delight-
ed to be able to present such a fine
cut of his patrichal face, and splendid
beard. The men of his times are fast
passing away. Only a few of the Old
Guard are left to tell the story of the
early days.
"The old order changeth."
HERALD OF HOPE
" Ye Christian Heralds go proclaim
Salvation sent in Jesus' name."
"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for."
Herald of Hope.
In the summer of 1909 the mission-
ary committee of the First Baptist
church of Urbana, composed of Rev.
R. V. Meigs, F. C. Hubbard and J. S.
Hall, drove over that part of Urbana
lying north of the Big Four railroad
to see the needs of that field.
They found no church or Sunday
school north of the track. More than
1,000 people were living in the north-
west part of Urbana, and among them
many children.
The committee was unanimous in
feeling that something ought to be
done.
In October following, Rev. Meigs
was in attendance at the state con-
vention at Galesburg. He telegraphed
F. C. Hubbard that the chapel car,
"Herald of Hope," Rev. Sparks and
wife in charge, would be in Cham-
paign the next Saturday, and to make
arrangements to sidetrack in Urbana.
Visit of the Chapel Car.
Arrangements were made to place
the car on side track put in at Ro-
mine street. Meetings opened in the
chapel car, Sunday, October 24th,
1909.
From the first success attended all
meetings. Meetings were held every
night and a Sunday school was organ-
ized, and held at 9:30 a. m. each Sun-
day, and preaching at 11 a. m. and at
81
7:30 p. m. The Sunday school start-
ed with 43, and increased to 73. A
Junior C. B. soon had a membership
of fifty. The car remained until Jan-
uary 1, 1910. The last few weeks
Rev. Sparks and helpers solicited sub-
scriptions for a new building. Mr.
and Mrs. M. D. Busey offered to give
a lot east of the Hays school build-
ing. Rev. Sparks, feeling that the
corner lot, where the church now
stands, would be a better location,
he, with Mr. Busey, asked Mrs. Sim
to give the lot, which she most
cheerfully did, Mr. and Mrs. Busey
giving their lot for a parsonage. Sub-
scriptions were taken for nearly
$3,100. Two-thirds of this amount was
given by members of the First Bap-
tist church.
The matter was laid before the
board of deacons, and it recommend-
ed the church to carry forward the
work and appoint a building commit-
tee, which the church did, appointing
J. S. Hall, chairman; F. C. Hubbard,
secretary and treasurer; M. D. Busey,
W. R. Courtney, J. J. Johnson, How-
ard Woodworth.
June 30th, 1910, the corner stone
was laid by Brother Dunham, who
donated it. Rev. J. W. Primm led in
prayer, and Dr. E. B. Rogers delivered
an address. The first service of
prayer was held in the new building
August 10th, and the dedication took
place the 23d day of October. Sub-
scriptions were taken on dedication
to cover all indebtedness, but did not
cover the heating. The pastor, Rev.
J. W. Primm, Dr. Brand, Rev. Sparks
and Rev. Meigs, conducted the dedica-
tion exercises.
School Building Used.
After the chapel car left, through
permission of the school board of Ur-
bana, the use of the Hays school
building was granted for meetings
and Sunday school until the church
building was completed.
E. H. Renner of Urbana furnished
the chairs without rent until those
purchased arrived. Rev. J. W. Primm
was employed to preach and help in-
the work.
A Sunday school was organized in
the school house with Mr. Stephens
as superintendent. The work grew in
interest and numbers until the church
building was ready for use. After
the dedication of the church the work
took on new life under the leadership
of the pastor.
Rev. J. W. Primm was called to the
pastorate of Herald of Hope Mission
February 9, 1910. In the winter of
1910-11 several services resulted in
a number of conversions and addi-
tions to the church. In the summer
of 1911, one obstacle after another
arising, Rev. Primm and others be-
came discouraged and it was seen
that a change must be made. Through
the efforts of F. C. Hubbard, Rev. Ed-
gar Woolhouse and wife, who had
been in a similar work at South Dan-
ville and Grape Greek, were secured
to take up the work, Mr. Hubbard
standing security for their support.
They entered upon the work October
1, 1911, Rev. Woolhouse continuing
his work a part of the time near Dan-
ville. They proved to be the right
persons.
Progress of Movement.
By their wise methods and very
earnest, constant and untiring work
the field was developed and interest
increased until at the end of the year,
October 1, 1912, the Sunday school
had over 100 members, a young peo-
ple's union, very prosperous prayer
meetings well attended and full of in-
terest, the people united and ready to
work and all bills paid or provided
for. Since that time it has been
thought best that an independent or-
ganization be effected.
82
Herald of Hope
To this end Rev. Woolhouse and each one making a subscription for
wife canvassed the field and found support. Letters have been granted
about 70 persons ready to go into the to these from the First Church,
new organization as charter members,
Ater, Mr.
Ater, Mrs.
Applegate, Myrtle.
Beeby, Rev. W. H.
Beeby, Mrs. W. H.
Beeby, Ruth.
Beeby, Lois.
Beeby, Nellie.
Beeby, Florence.
Benedict, Mrs.
Blue, J. P.
Courtney. William.
Davis, Miss Nellie.
Durman, Benjamin.
Davidson, Mrs. John.
Davidson, John.
Farrow, Rill a.
Hawk, Russell.
Hawk, Frank.
Kerrigan, Mary.
Kerrigan, J. W.
Kerrigan, Mrs. Celia.
Hill, Edward.
Hill, Mrs. Mary.
Howard, William.
Howard, Mrs. Mary A.
Johnson, Mrs. J. J.
Johnson, James J.
Johnson, Mrs. Edith.
Kinnear, S. D.
Kinnear, Mrs. Anna.
Koch, Florence.
Koch, Edna.
Koch, Lloyd.
Koch, Mrs. Florence.
King, Mrs. Anna.
Kesler, Lola.
Lee, Mrs. Lillian.
Lemmon. Susie.
Mechling, L. M.
Mechling, Mrs. L. M.
McClain, C. F.
McClain, Mrs. C. F.
McClain, Lena.
McClain, Vivian.
Merrick, Mrs. Harry.
Merrick, Harry.
Martin, Elmer.
Martin, J. L.
McFarland, B. T.
Parris, Hazel.
Shaw, Earl.
Sturkins, James.
Sturkins, Mrs. James.
Smith, George.
Smith, Mrs. Sue.
Smith, Paul.
Smith, Margaret.
Shafer, Mrs. Flora.
Walker, Mrs. H. E.
Walker, H. E.
Walker, Staunton.
Wagner, Viola.
Wascher, Frank.
Wascher, Mrs. Frank.
Woolhouse, Lolela.
Woolhouse, Rev. E.
Woolhouse, Mrs. E.
Woolhouse, Jennie.
Woolhouse, Dwight.
83
Members added to Herald of Hope Church since the organization:
From First Church, Urbana.
Bailey, Mrs. Emma.
Benedict, Bertha.
Framm, Wallace.
King, Mrs. Emma.
Mitchell, Mrs. Erne.
Carlock, Robert.
Parris, Charles.
Ray, Mrs. Laura.
Moore, Mrs. Lou.
Parnell, Guy.
Richardson, W. B.
Shaw, Willie.
Stevens, R. H.
Surbaugh, Ida.
Richardson, Mrs. W. B. Surbaugh, Charlie.
From Other Sources.
Snyder, Mrs. E. M.
Susdorf, Mrs. Elsie.
Traxler, Mrs. Eva.
Traxler, Ellen.
Traxler, Ivan.
Traxler, Dolly.
Walworth, Edward.
Miss Nora Walti of East Urbana
has been a constant worker since the
start. 'She has served as teacher, su-
perintendent of Sunday school, presi-
dent of Young People's society, super-
intendent^of the primary, and as
church treasurer. The First Church
has stood by this work faithfully.
Business men and citizens of the two
cities have been most liberal and en-
couraging.
The Herald of Hope mission was
formally organized as a regular Bap-
tist church with Rev. Edgar Wool-
house as pastor, and with deacons,
trustees, clerk, treasurer, superin-
tendent and ushers, Dec. 15, 1912.
George F. Righter of Champaign,
and moderator of the Bloomfteld as-
sociation, was invited to preside dur-
ing the organization. He made con-
gratulatory remarks in the opening
of the meeting and introduced happy
references through the various parts
of the program.
While the motion to call Rev.
Woolhouse was preceding, Mr. J. S.
Hall, who has been identified with
this work from the beginning brought
the felicitations from the First
church, and highly recommended Rev.
and Mrs. Woolhouse as in every way
adapted to the work. Mr. Hall and
Fred C. Hubbard have been closely
identified with the enterprise from
the beginning and will continue their
support and sympathy.
Rev. Dr. Steadman, a former pas-
tor of the First Church, made the
first address to the new organization,
urging unity and peace. Rev. M. S.
Bryant, pastor of the University Bap-
tist church, gave a very helpful expo-
sition of scripture, urging the mission
of the new church and brought con-
gratulations.
Rev. G. M. Shott, pastor of the
First church, made an appeal to each
officer to hold up high standards from
the first. Rev. and Mrs. Woolhouse
were called out and made replies ex-
pressing their gratitude to the friends
who have helped to make the" enter-
prise successful.
The pulpit of the old historic First
church was given to this church and
graces the platform in dignified si-
lence, and yet it has its message from
the past to the present.
Officers of Herald of Hope elected
were as follows: Deacons, John Her-
rigan, three years; J. P. Blue, two
years; Frank Wascher, one year.
Trustees William Courtney, three
years; John Davidson, two years;
Lloyd Koch, one year.
Clerk H. E. Walker.
Treasurer -Frank Wascher.
Sunday School Superintendent
William Courtney.
Assistant Harry Merrick.
Chorister Edward Walworth.
Head Usher Stanton Walker.
84
Financial report of Herald of Hope
Church from December 15th, 1912, to
August 1st, 1913:
Platform 10.00
Janitor's Salary 30.00
Lighting 20.00
Coal 45.00
Repairs of Sunday School 50.00
Expense of meetings 20.00
Salary of Pastor $358.00
Sunday School Expenses.... 79.00
Total $612.00
Rev. Edgar Woolhouse.
Rev. Edgar Woolhouse was born
October 19th, 1871, in Laurens, New
York. His parents were of New En-
gland stock German and English in
descent. He was concerted, and bap-
tized in Oneonta, N. Y., February,
1894, under the pastorate of Rev. C.
C. Pierce. He is a graduate of North-
field, and did this work after his
marriage. He also attended Colgate
Seminary for a brief time, and then
went to Colorado Springs, where for
a short time he took advantage of
the Colorado College. He then be-
came Home Mission Pastor under the
Board, at Mosca, Colorado, which
church ordained him June 9th, 1902.
He next organized the First Baptist
church at Alamosa, and raised the
money for a new building. October
1st he moved into Iowa, and on De-
cember 1st, 1903, we find him building
a church at Sigourney. October 1,
1905, he is in Watertown, 111., where he
had baptisms every quarter, using the
Mississippi river as a baptistry. Next
he organized and built a church at
Silvis, a suburb of Moline, 111. While
at Watertown, in eight months, he
collected $6,000 for a new building,
and on his last night there, burned
the last remnant of evidence of debt.
Thence he moved to Lorain, Ohio,
where he organized the Trinity Bap-
tist church. Thence he moved to
Danville, where in one year he erect-
85
ed two substantial church houses. He
is indefatigable in his labors, and has
rare gifts along unusual lines much
needed in the earlier history of church
organizations. His wife ably assists
him in all departments, whether it be
in the pulpit, or in the homes of the
people. The history of his rapid and
successful movements are told in de-
tail under history of Herald of Hope,
Cunningham Avenue, and Centennial.
Mrs. Edgar Woolhouse.
At Oneonta, New York, September
1, 1876, was born this most excellent
helpmeet for a pastor. At the age of
14 she accepted Christ as her personal
Savior, and began work in earnest for
him. She was baptized October 4th,
1891. She was married to Rev. Edgar
Woolhouse, Nov. 28th, 1894. Side
by side she has worked with her hus-
band during their days of preparation
at Mt. Hermon, Mass., where he was
the first married student who ever
matriculated in the institution. Sick-
ness, and breakdowns have been hero-
ically met, both in the east and while
they were sojourning in the west.
Gradually, Mrs. Woolhouse had to
assume larger and larger responsi-
bilities until she finds herself in the
pulpit, preaching to help her husband,
while he works some needy field in the
neighborhood. God has owned her la-
bors in soul winning, and given many
evidences of approval of her work.
It is fitting that as they work side
by side in their pastorate, that you
should see them side by side while
you read this tribute to their work,
and worth. They are rearing a de-
lightful family who are fast coming
into useful Christian service.
CUNNINGHAM AVENUE CHURCH.
Erected 1912
"And the tabernacle shall oe sanctified by my glory."
Rev. Edgar Woolhouse discovered
the needs, and possibilities of a good
work in the brickyard neighborhood,
and began prayer meetings in private
houses, October, 1912, and the inter-
est increased from the start. On De-
cember 8, 1912, a lot was bought from
Miss Nelle Hubbard at $250, on Cun-
ningham avenue, and Rev. Woolhouse
was authorized by the First Church to
86
secure funds to pay for the lot, and
also to erect a tabernacle. In the in-
credibly short space of eight weeks
this was accomplished. On Sunday
afternoon, December 22nd, 1912, a
congregation that taxed the capacity
of the new building, gathered to en-
joy the dedication services. Rev. W.
H. Steadman, D.D., presided, Rev. Dr.
D. O. Hopkins of the First Baptist
Church of Champaign, read the scrip-
tures, and at the close of the meeting
offered the prayer of dedication. Rev.
M. S. Bryant, Pastor of the University
Baptist Church, led in prayer. George
F. Righter, Moderator of the Bloom -
field Association, and others, made
addresses. Rev. G. M. Shott, pastor
of the First Baptist Church, Urbana,
preached the dedication sermon from
Rev. 11:1, after which he engineered
a collection, in cash, and pledges
which proved to be sufficient to pay
all bills to date.
On the day of organization Miss
Nelle Hubbard, who has taken spe-
cial interest in this Mission, was
elected Sunday School Superintend-
ent, which office she has held with
faithful regularity till now, often re-
maining to the Sabbath evening ser-
vices to act as Organist.
Shortly after the dedication, Pastor
Woolhouse conducted a special meet-
ing, which resulted in the conversion
of 35 people. It became a serious
question, owing to the great distance
from the First Church, and Herald of
Hope, as to what to do with these new
converts. It soon became evident that
an independent organization was the
only solution to the difficulty.
Brother Woolhouse was advised to
baptise all converts into the fellow-
ship of the Herald of Hope Church,
and then letter them at such time as
was best to effect an organization at
Cunningham Avenue. Accordingly,
the First Church passed a motion fa-
Miss Nelle Hubbard
vorable to organization, and in 13
weeks after the first prayer meeting
in that district, the Tabernacle was
filled to witness the organization of
this new church. Letters to the num-
ber of 34, mostly the new converts
that had joined Herald of Hope
Church, with one from the First
Church, were presented, and an or-
ganization effected. Inspirational and
congratulatory addresses were then
made by Drs. Steadman and Hopkins,
and Brethren M. S. Bryant and G. M.
Shott. Dr. Steadman called out the
following persons from the audience,
and all spoke words of encourage-
ment and inspiration. N. A. Riley,
W. H. Kerrigan, Mrs. Edgar Wool-
house, Miss Nelle Hubbard, and many
others. Rev. Edgar Woolhouse was
unanimously called as Pastor of the
new church, with the idea that he is
to give such time as he can, in con-
nection with his work at Herald of
87
Hope, and the Centennial Church. The
following are the officers of the new
body:
Pastor Rev. Edgar Woolhouse.
Clerk Everett Lee.
Treasurer Mrs. E. C. Hotchkiss.
Deacon John Smith.
Deacon Daniel Grimes.
S. S. Supt. Miss Nelle Hubbard.
Trustees David Lee, Willard Sal-
yers, William Bevis.
The Church was incorporated under
the laws of the state in June, 1913,
and the deed of the property was
made in trust to the Trustees of the
Cunningham Avenue Baptist church,
with a clause saying if it ever ceases
to be used for Baptist purposes, it
will revert to the Trustees of the
First Baptist church for city mission
work.
The following are the statistics of
this young church. Additions by bap-
tism, 2; by letter, 31; total, 33. Death,
1; present membership, 32.
The value of the property is $700.
Home expenses have teen $542.86; to
Foreign Missions, $2.37; to Home
Missions, $2.37; to Publication Soci-
ety, $3.69. Total money raised for all
purposes, $551.29.
Sunday School.
Officers and teachers, 8; scholars,
70; average attendance, 55. Expens-
es of the school, $16; for missions,
$5.45. Total, $21.45.
A Baptist Young People's Society
has also been organized.
Unusually interesting services have
been held by the Young People's So-
.iety. The young people are showing
a growing interest in this work and
the signs are hopeful for still better
work.
June 19th, the church in-
structed the clerk to call a council to
convene in the First Church, Septem-
ber 8th, in connection with the Bloom-
field Association, to consider the rec-
ognition of the Church as a member
of the Bloomfield Association. The
University Baptist Church will call
the same council for the same pur-
pose, as also Herald of Hope.
Cunningham Avenue Membership.
Albertson, Fay.
Bemiss, George.
Bemiss, Mrs. M. O.
Bemiss, Eliza.
Bemiss, Phoebe.
Brown, Harry.
Brown, Zora.
Coopernell, Lena.
Ebert, Ora.
Ebert, Earl.
Grimes, Daniel.
Hotchkiss, Mrs. E.
Hotchkiss, lona.
Hotchkiss, Parris.
Lee, David.
Lee, Mrs. David.
Lee, Everett.
Lee, Mrs. Lillian.
Lee, George.
Moore, Mrs. Edith.
Morehead, Mrs. Ethel.
Price, Ella.
Rayburn, Mrs.
Salyers, Mrs. Willard.
Salyers, Willard.
Shepherd, Ethel.
Smith, John.
Smith, Mrs. Lottie.
Smith, Venia.
Smith, Marie.
Smith, Oma.
Tipton, Mrs. Charles.
Watson, Mrs. Maud.
New Fields.
The First Church is doing all that
its present strength will admit, but as
the spiritual life grows, and the mis-
sionary spirit increases, there are sev-
eral new fields where work ought to
be done. Large areas in our neighbor-
hood where there is no church of any
kind. Population and price of land are
increasing faster than the progress of
our work. -..
88
CHAPTER XIII
OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
MUSIC
Sing, whore the full-toned organ
Resounds through aisle and nave,
And the choral praise ascendeth
In concord sweet and grave."
MUSIC
A choir is considered a very im-
portant part of the organization of
every church. The choir of the First
Baptist church enjoys the distinction
of being next to the Sunday School,
the oldest organization in the church,
and also the unique history of 75
years of service with but three lead-
ers. Robert Slater, an exemplary,
and god-fearing man, was the first
leader, and led the singing with great
acceptance to the church. N. A. Riley,
son of Rev. G. W. Riley, was the sec-
ond choir leader of the church, begin-
ning in 1865, and continuing till Sep-
Robert Slater.
N. A. Riley
tember 13th, 1889, a period of 24
years. The third leader is George M.
Bennett,, continuing from September
13th, 1889, to this day. All of these
directors have used our own people
entirely, and few churches have been
blessed with such a high class choir
membership, and music of so high an
order rendered. Director and mem-
bers throughout have contributed
their services all these seventy-five
years. For years the music-loving peo-
ple of Urbana, Champaign, and the
community, have looked forward to
the annual song service of this noted
choir, as one of the musical treats of
89
George M. Bennett
the year. It is much to the tact, and
management of these leaders that
there has never been a choir trouble
making more discord than harmony in
the church. The following served as
members of the choir during the term
of N. A. Riley: George M. Bennett,
E. M. Knowlton, L. A. McLean, Ed-
gar Lanham, George Hubbard, Mrs.
T. F. Fugate, Mrs. Flora Hollister,
Mrs. Alice Drury, Mrs. Augusta Mor-
gan, Mrs. G. M. Bennett, Miss Bettie
McKinzie, Mrs. Amelia Richards.
The organists of the church have
been as follows: Mrs. Susan Day,
Mrs. Fannie Dicken, Mrs. Anna Busey,
Miss Rose Lanham, Mrs. Emma Ben-
nett, and Mrs. Claude A. Binyon.
Prof. F. L. Lawrence, C. H. Mills,
Lloyd Morey. Each for their time of
service was the very best and most
faithful.
Many people who came into the
church for a longer or shorter time
received first, and most lasting im-
pressins of music, from the musicians
that have served this church. While
the present choir is one of the fore-
most south of Chicago, and is not to
be compared with any other, yet it
must be remembered that each choir
in its time in this church was of the
same high order, the best that the
times could afford.
On the voluntary retirement of
Brother Riley the following resolu-
tions were unanimously adopted:
"Whereas, our esteemed and beloved
Brother N. A. Riley has faithfully
served this church as chorister for the
past 24 years, and that during tha;
long period he has so managed mat-
ters that there has never occurred
such a thing as a "choir fuss," and
that he always has been in perfect
harmony with the different pastors
of the church.
Further, that Brother Riley has al-
ways shown a Christian spirit, and
by his excellent leadership and sweet
singing, (especially in special meet-
ings) of the church, he has largely
contributed in bringing souls to Christ
therefore, be it resolved: That while
we accept the resignation of Brother
Riley from active duties of his office
we desire to express our appYeciatiou
of his services in the years past, re-
membering that he was punctual, and
always faithful in all his church du-
ties. Also that he gave to the church
his best years, and at a time when
it needed his services most. That we
also recognize the fact that he has
been instrumental through the abili-
ties God has given him, in doing
much toward bringing up the church
from small numbers to its present
high standing. That we pray that
God's blessing may rest upon him,
and that the recollection of his past
faithful service may be a consolation
to him in the years to come.
90
Pipe Organ
Resolved, That these resolutions be
spread upon our minutes, and that the
same be published in the Herald, and
a copy be presented to Brother
Riley."
Brother Riley had the pleasure of
nominating as his successor Brother
George M. Bennett, who has led the
choir from that day to this with high
honor, and has made this part of the
worship of the old First church nota-
ble far and wide. He will lead the
grand chorus of Thanksgiving in our
Diamond Jubilee when for one whole
week we will celebrate our 75th An-
niversary. In the personnel of the
choir are some who have held long
terms of office and should deserve
special mention in this volume.
Among those who have rendered val-
uable services in the choir in the last
twenty-five years are Misses Opal
and Birdie Heller, Emma and Lillie
Yanos, Fannie Dicken, Rose Lanham,
Ella Romine, Flora Ross, Effie Wright,
Belle, Marie, Adelia and Clara Ren-
frew, Lucia Hall, Ombra Herriott,
Minnie Franklin, Anna, and Elizabeth
Webber, Harriet Howe, Anna Riley,
Mrs. J. C. Thorpe, Lulu Gardner, Stel-
la Renfrew, Leota Parker, Bessie
Riggs, Gladys Beverlin, Grace Roney.
The gentlemen with good choir rec-
ords are: Edgar Lanham, George
Hubbard, Frank Renfrew, Clay Web-
ber, Carl Van Doren, Charles Thorpe,
William Schiff, Ellis Hall, C. G. Hop-
kins, Chester Richards, E. G. Dexter,
Carlos Renfrew, Frank Beebe, Clinton
Brown, Joel Coffee, P. K. Miles, S. A.
Rowland. Edgar Lanham enjoy?
the distinction of having entered the
choir at the age of 14 and has been
in the choir longer than any one now
living in the church, and while this
has not been continuous he still ag-
gregates more years than any one
else. He joined the choir in 1879. G.
91
M. Bennett is next in length of years.
During Brother Bennett's time of
service, on December 3rd, 1902, a com-
mittee was appointed to raise not
less than $2,000 by good and substan-
tial subscriptions, or otherwise, as
they see fit, for the purchase of a
pipe organ, the work not to begin till
January, 1903, and to be finished April
1st, 1903, subscriptions .to be payable
one-half April 1st, and the rest July
1st, 1903.
The committee consisted of George
M. Bennett, N. A. Riley, William
Schiff, Mrs. Anna Frisinger, and
Chester Richards. April 8, 1903, the
Pipe Organ committee made a re-
port of progress, and the following
resolution was passed by the church:
"Resolved, That the same committee
be continued to finish up the organ
finances, and that said committee be
authorized to contract for, purchase,
and install in the church a new pipe
organ on the best terms possible at
a cost not exceeding $3,000, and that
the committee be instructed to sell
the Knabe Piano, and turn in the pro-
ceeds on the organ, and that a sub-
conlniittee with an expert if neces-
sary, be sent to Chicago to inspect
the propositions offered, if they think
best."
September 19th, 1903, the Pipe Or-
gan Committee made its final report,
which in part is as follows: "The or-
gan cost $3,000, but that does not in-
clude the preparation to the building
to receive the organ which is $200, to-
gether with a change in the roof of
the building, which was paid for by
the Organ company." Favorable
mention of the Ladies' Extension so-
ciety, and the 'Christian Endeavor, and
Professor Lawrence of the University,
who furnished the plan and gave ex-
cellent advice to the Committee and
various others, is made, and the re-
port asks for the discharge of the
Committee in the hope "that the in-
strument will be a great blessing in
the worship of God, that its beauti-
ful tones will tend to make the ser-
vices more reverential and impres-
sive, and that it will continue to serve
the high purpose for which it was in-
stalled long after we shall be gathered
to our home on the other side."
Fred C. Hubbard, on behalf of the
Trustees, accepted the organ, and the
church accepted it at the hands of the
Trustees by a rising vote.
Kindly mention was made of Mrs.
Emma Bennett, who had for seven
years served as pianist for the choir
with scarcely an absence. The thanks
of the church was extended to her as
she severed her connection with the
choir.
It is significant that for 12 years from
one to three Webbers and one to three
Renfrews have been in the choir.
"Sing aloud,
Old songs, the precious music of the
heart."
Wordsworth.
BAPTIST MALE QUARTET.
During the pastorate of Rev. J. F.
Mills a quartet was organized that
was an invaluable aid to all Evangel-
istic meetings, funerals, and many
other special as well as regular occa-
sions. It was composed of George
Bennett, Edward Lanham, Clay Web-
ber and Frank Renfrew. They also
filled an engagement for a large part
of a Chautauqua program. They are
preserved in the accompanying cut.
92
Frank Renfrew
Edgar Lanham
Clay Webber
Geo. M. Bennett
93
Ladies' Extension Society.
The ladies of this church have al-
ways been its strong supporters, both
financially as well as spiritually, and
proved themselves excellent finan-
ciers.
In 1854 and 1855 many carpenters
contributed work on the old church,
and the ladies furnished the dinner in
the building. In 185G, the ladies had
saved up enough money to purchase a
tell, it being the same that now hangs
in the belfry, and was the first church
in Central Illinois to have a belfry.
The ladies kept up their organiza-
tion, and under the pastorate of the
Rev. W. H. Steadman, D.D., named
their society "The Ladies' Aid," which
continued for over seven years, until
they organized under the Rev. F. J.
Leavett as "Social Workers.' The larg-
est work was done under the pastor-
ate of the Rev. J. F. Mills, who recog-
nized the strong help of the ladies,
which would be had in building the
new church. The church appointed
Rev. J. F. Mills the committee, with
power to call to his aid any help he
thought best, so he organized the la-
dies under the name of the "Ladies'
Extension Society." He was elected
its first president, and the ladies sub-
scribed $3,000 to the new church,
which was the first subscription made.
This was done in 1894. Rev. Mills was
continued as president of the society
until the end of the pastorate. On the
day the church was dedicated, the
ladies subscribed $500 toward the pur-
chase of the large pipe organ; they
also purchased the furniture for the
new church, and also paid for the dec-
orating of the same.
After the resignation of Rev. Mills,
Mrs. Fannie Lewis, and Mrs. Alice
Freeman served as presidents of the
society, and were succeeded by Mrs.
L. A. McLean, who served for seven
years, and in 1913 was succeeded by
Mrs. C. L. Van Doren. The officers
of the society were uniformally ex-
cellent workers, and the society was
always noted for the strong, financial
help it contributed. The society us-
ually bore the incidental expenses of
the church or purchased the fuel, be-
sides purchasing the carpets, decorat-
ing the church when it needed it. One
of the substantial donations made by
Mrs. Artemesia Busey, a member of
the society, was $4,000 in cash for the
purchase of the present commodious
parsonage, worth over $7,000. The
church sold its old parsonage and
paid the difference.
These are only some of the acts of
the ladies in the support of God's
cause, and the church is, and always
has been proud of the ladies, and
their self-sacrificing work for the
cause.
WOMAN'S MISSION CIRCLE.
The Woman's Baptist Foreign Mis-
sionary Society of the First Baptist
Church, Urbana, was organized in 1876
by Mrs. Franklin Walker, who was an
aunt of Mrs. L. G. Hubbard. This
was during the pastorate of Rev. W.
H. Steadman. A Young Woman's
Home Mission Circle was organized in
18S2 by Mrs. Kate J. Shott during the
first pastorate of Rev. G. M. Shott.
This was consolidated with the For-
eign Society in 188<3, and the organiz-
ation has since been known as the
Woman's Baptist Union Missionary
Sciety. In 1892, "The What I Can
(W. I. C.) Society" was organized un-
der the leadership of Mrs. E. S. Hall,
and mainttained for a period of three
years. A "Baby Band" has been kept
94
up at different times, the last in 1909
under the supervision of Mrs. E. E.
Dexter. Among the active members
of the first organization of the For-
eign Missionary Society were Mrs.
Franklin Walker, Mrs. Amanda Allen,
Mrs. Eliza Gere, Mrs. Experience
Walker, Mrs. Dr. Fugate, Mrs. Allan
McClain, three Mrs. Cushman, and
Mrs. Spencer. Meetings have been
held regularly the first Tuesday in
each month.
In the early years of the Mission
Circle it was difficult to create an in-
terest to any great extent in Foreign
Missions. Mrs. John Gere more than
any other one, perhaps, carried the
work on her heart, and was ever act-
ive in furthering the cause, using
much time in distributing missionary
literature, and trying to secure at-
tendance at the meetings.
The table of officers and contribu-
tions will show that the membership
is not nearly so large as it should be,
in a church with so many women of
the age usually accepted for its mem-
bership. The records of reports and
other data are so incomplete that only
a meager idea of their work can be
published.
There is no material for a report
for the years between 1876 and 1882,
but after 1882 the material is more
WOMAN'S BAPTIST
plentiful, and the following table will
show as far as figures can, the result
of this organization.
MISSION CIRCLE TABLE.
Year. President.
1876 Mrs. W. H. Steadman
1882 Mrs Amanda Allen....
Secretary.
Mrs. Amanda Allen
Mem I
8
Home [Foreign] Total
25 00 25 00
23 00| | 23 00
30 OOI 30 00
25 50) 53 00 78 50
7 00| 45 85 52 85
4 251 35 00 39 25
37 50| 20 00| 57 50
29 69| 93 38 ]f23 07
101 i38! 39 70|141 08
29 70 1 29 70
16 07J 23 00| 39 07
47 04 | 36 35| 83 39
7 32 19 73| 27 05
14 25 25 98| 40 23
20 25! 31 39| 51 64
14 25) 25 321 39 57
'26 64| 29 50| 56 14
34' 50| 25 76| 60 25
41 45 13 65 | 55 10
32 29 21 75 | 54 04
63 25 77 19J140 44
26 00 27 00| 53 00
>28 40 31 00| 59 40
30 00| 26 00| 56 00
30 00| 30 00| 60 00
35 00 25 00| 60 00
40 00 46 00| 86 00
54 50 52 50|107 00
50 00 37 00| 87 00
69 00 47 OOJ116 00
50 00 95 00|145 00
313 53J1062 7412076 27
36
1883 Mrs. John Gere
30
1884 Mrs John Gere
30
1885 Mrs John Gere iMrs. Dr. Fiie-ate
21
1886 Mrs. L. G. Hubbard....
1887 Mrs. L. G. Hubbard....
2888
Mrs. Dr. Fugate
Mrs. Dr. Fugate
29
Mrs. Jennie McLean
20
1889 Mrs. Harriet Gere
1890 Mrs. Harriet Gere
1892 Mrs. W. B. Webber....
1893
Miss Ella Hall
22
Miss Ella Hall
Miss Ella Hall
12
Miss Alice Duff
30
1894
1895 Mrs. W. B. Webber....
1896 Mrs. J. S. Hall
Mrs. G F. Mills
30
1897 Mrs. Margaret Walke
1897 Mrs. M. Walker
Miss Addie Toy
Miss Lulu Straight
1898 Mrs. M. Walker
1899 Mrs. M. Walker
1900 Mrs. M. Walker
1901 Mrs. G. A. Walker....
1902 Mrs. M. L. Rugg
Miss Lulu Straight
Mrs. Jennie McLean
28
Mrs. W. O. Connor
51
Mrs. W. O. Connor
Mrs. W. O. Connor
1903 Mrs. M. L. Rugg
1904 Mrs. M. L. Rugg
1905 Mrs. M. Walker
Mrs. Nettie Hunt
44
Mrs. Nettie Hunt
34
Mrs. Nettie Hunt
84
1906 Mrs. J. A. Brwn
Mrs. Nettie Hunt
34
1907 Mrs. Nettie Hunt
1908 Mrs. Nettie Hunt
1909 Mrs. R. S. Kirkland....
1910 Mrs. C. L. Van Doren
1911 Mrs. C. L. Van Doren
1912 Mrs. H P Stinespring
1913 Mrs. H P Stinespring
Mrs. W. B. Clark
32
Mrs. W. B. Clark
50
Mrs. A. J. Woolman
54
Mrs. A. J. Woolman
'58
Mrs. A. J. Woolman. .
57
Mrs. A. J. Woolman
78
Mrs. Maud Miller
80
|1
95
FIRST CHURCH AND THE UNIVERSITY
"Study to show thyself approved unto God."
First Baptist Church, Urbana, and the
University.
No history of this church would be
complete without a reference to this
great state institution of learning.
The public movements which gave
rise to the University began in 1850,
though the principles upon which it
was later founded had been long be-
fore the American people. The first
convention was called at Granville,
Illinois, in November, 1881, and from
this grew several later conventions.
In January, 1865, the Board of Super-
visors made the following proposal to
the Illinois legislature: "We offer
the Urbana and Champaign Institute
Building, the College grounds, con-
taining about ten acres, also blocks
52 and 53, of the seminary addition
to Urbana, together with the appurt-
enances thereto belonging, with 140
acres of land adjacent thereto, valued
at $160,000, in consideration of the
permanent location of the Illinois In-
dustrial University upon the said
grounds." After prolonged debate the
bill passed the lower house accepting
the terms and locating the University
in Urbana. This naturally aroused a
great competition in other quarters,
and the people became very active in
offering inducements.
The Urbana location won, and the
people were exhilarated with their
triumph, and built great bonfires, and
opened public halls, and listened to
much oratory on the benefits that
were sure to accrue to this neighbor-
hood, from locating the University
here. The conveyances of property
were made May 8th, 1867. John M.
Gregory, L.L.D., was elected first re-
gent, and to him more than to any
one man, Is due the broad policy and
magnificent plans that underlie the
the work of the University. When he
reported his outline to the board May
8, 1867, it was the signal for all sorts
of differences of opinion and criti-
cisms. The opening of the University
was ordered for March 2, 1868. Fifty
students enrolled at the opening, and
the end of the first session of the Uni-
versity found the number of students
to have reached seventy-seven. The
state of Illinois has made constant,
and magnificent gifts, and appropria-
tions through all these years, so that
in 1878 the value of property was es-
timated to be at least $829,000. Since
that time the University has had
phenomenal growth in equipment, and
in enrollment. There are thirty fine,
and imposing buildings on the
Campus, and these exclusive of equip-
ment are valued at $2,093.500.
During the year 1911-12, 5,167 stu-
dents were enrolled, and the Faculty,
including all departments, numbered
about 600. Probably no church of the
27 within the Twin Cities, not dis-
tinctively organized as a student
church, has been closer to the life of
the University, than the First Baptist
church. Many of her young people
have been students, and some have
won places in the ranks of instruct-
ors. Many 'have received University
instruction along special lines, and
are out among the world's workers
making good. During all these years
the church and the university have
grown together. The church is sen-
ior by thirty years, but the last 45
years have been spent "neck and
neck" as the church, and University,
have forged ahead.
Part of the excellent speech of
96
President Draper of the University at
the dedication of this new church is
presented in these pages as an evi-
dence of the good will existing be-
tween the church and university.
President James of the University
will be asked to take some part in the
celebration of our 75th Anniversary,
and it is a matter of regret that his
message cannot be given in this book.
For some years there has been a
large class of University men and wo-
men, in connection with our Bible
school in this church. It is an or-
ganized class, is "co-ed," and is call-
ed "Agoma," and has usually been
taught by a professor in the Universi-
ty, but at present it is taught by the
pastor, Rev. Gideon M. Shott, D.D.
Gradually, many of the students will
learn to attend the University Bap-
tist church under the excellent pas-
torate of Rev. M. S. Bryant, and yet
there will never be a time when there
will not be a student class in the
church, for the benefit of those who
are already members, or whose pa-
rents were members, and will prefer
their children should worship and
study in the old home church. This
will perpetuate the "Agoma" class,
and help to keep up the good feeling
that has always existed between the
two institutions. This church, almost
above any other, ought to present to
the student body, living its four, or
more years here, the highest spiritual
standards. It should be the aim of
the church to set up proper ideals for
the students, and not yield itself to
the natural proclivities of youthful de-
sires, and tendencies, when the re-
straints of home are taken away.
It should be the aim of this church
to see to it, as far as any and all who
ever attend the church, or school,
should go away filled with the high
ideals of spiritual life, and its real re-
lations to the great callings for which
these students come here to prepare.
The church receives them under its
influences at the time when they are
the most impressible, and when many
if not most of them are taking higher
ambitions, and seeking wider visions
of life. They are making new ties to
take the place of those at home, and
it should be the aim of our own
young people to set before these stu-
dents the highest images of religious
life and morality.
"Disputing' daily in the
This church is in a peculiar position
to show the student, the real relation
of piety to every day life. We should
create an atmosphere of real spirit-
ual life for the benefit of all students
in High school and University As a
matter of fact the organization of a
special church for Baptist students
has no special connection with the
organic work of the First Church and
'yet its existence interrelates the
two bodies in close sympathy. A Bap-
tist Guild called the Gregory Guild
was maintained by the Baptists at the
school of one Tyrannus."
University to which in 1908 our Young
People contributed $100. It was aban-
doned after a very fair test.
The First church had been looking
after a large number of Baptist stu-
dents as far as class work and young
people's work was concerned, till the
State Board of Missions appointed
Rev. M. S. Bryant to take charge of a
work for Baptist students in attend-
ance upon the University. Between one
and five hundred Baptist students,
either members of some Baptist
church, or Baptistically inclined, en-
97
roll themselves each year for study
in the University.
Rev. Bryant secured quarters in the
Y. M. C. A. building for his work, and
soon organized a separate Baptist
church. As many of the students as
were willing to enter upon that spe-
cial work were interviewed, and
brought their letters. About 30 to 35
of those who were in attendance at
the First church changed their at-
tendance from the First Church. This
new church also took in some local
citizens who living near the Univer-
sity, could find it easier to attend ser-
vices there. Accordingly, the First
Church gave letters to the following
to unite with the University Baptist
church:
Rev. J. W. Primm, Pauline Primm,
Mrs. J. W. Primm, Philip Primm. Paul
Murdock, G. F. Sutherland, Uripides
Fijardo, Mrs. Ella Wright, Francis
Wright, Helen Wright.
These, though not many in num-
ber, made a historic connection with
that body. Since the organization
Rev. J. W. Primm has been called to
his reward after many months of ted-
ious suffering. He was loved and
honored for his high moral and spirit-
ual qualities, as well as for his ripe
scholarly attainments. The most de-
lightful fellowship exists between the
pastors of Urbana, Champaign, and
Herald of Hope churches, with Broth-
er Bryant, whose fitness for this stu-
dent work is so evident, and whose
teaching abilities make him a very
helpful factor in the work of the
Bloomfield Association.
Three Baptist churches organized
within that many months of the year
1912!!
RESOLUTIONS
"I am resolved what to do."
RESOLUTIONS.
The passing of resolutions by the
church upon the recommendation of
Deacons and Pastor, is an easy mat-
ter. Carrying out the resolutions im-
partially and faithfully is quite an-
other. While all these resolutions are
aimed to correct some worldly, or sin-
ful habit, they will not accomplish
that task by being simply recorded
upon the minutes. Any failure to
carry out the declarations of such
resolutions declares to the member-
ship, and the world at large that the
authority of the church is gone, and
the officials are helpless, and the
body has lost its power of self-gov-
ernment.
Most of these resolutions are but
modifications of the by-laws adopted
in our "Star Book," June 27th, 1883.
All questions pertaining to popular
amusements are included in the reso-
lutions in the back pages of the "Star
Book.'' These modifications, and re-
iterations of these principles go to
show that not all the members of the
church have lost their respect for
high spiritual ideals. That they must
be repeated with such desperate fre-
quency through all the years shows a
very low conception of sacred obliga-
tions on the part of many who claim
membership. Let us in future keep
more of them and make less.
Monday, April 6, 1885. Resolved:
"That resident and non-resident
members who fail to co-operate with
the church, either by their presence
or letter, for the space of one year
be dropped from the membership
roll."
March 27, 1889. "Whereas, a gos-
pel church is Christs representative
on earth, and when governed by his
98
laws, and controlled by his spirit, is
opposed to all worldly alliances, and
can accomplish its mission only as it
keeps itself "unspotted from the
world," and
Whereas, to a great extent, it is the
Christian that is read by the world in-
stead of the Bible, and as the Chris-
tian separates himself from the world
and follows the Master, to the same
extent he honors the cause and ex-
emplifies the spirit of religion, and
builds up the cause of Christ, there-
fore, be it
Resolved: That in view of the po-
sition the Christian occupies before
the world as a follower of Christ, and
also being an example both in and out
of the church, we do not think it con-
sistent for a member of this church to
attend balls, card parties, or other
places of questionable amusement.
And in a spirit of earnest Christian
charity ask those of our members who
have been attending such places, for
the sake of the love they have for the
Master, and the honor of his cause,
that they refrain from doing so in the
future, remembering the injunction of
the Apostle, "to avoid every appear-
ance of evil."
June 5th, 1889. "That the church
demand of every member that he, or
she, according to his, or her covenant
vows, contribute to the support of the
church, according to his, or her abil-
ity.
Second, "That failure to assist in
defraying church expenses, be consid-
ered a sufficient ground for disci-
pline."
Third, "That a statement of the
condition of the church be read be-
tore the church the first Sunday in
each month."
"Resolved, That every non-resident
member be required to correspond
with the church at least, once a year,
and to contribute something to its
support as long as they retain their
membership."
January 3rd, 1894. "Resolved, That
no member be excluded from member-
ship in this church until they have
been visited twice, and kindly en-
treated to return to their duty, and
allegiance to the church, and shall
have had a thirty days' notice from
the church clerk to appear and an-
swer to the charges against them,
and give reasons why such action
should not be taken."
Resolved, That non-residents be
corresponded with twice and receive
notice from the clerk."
September 5th, 1906, "Resolved that
all non-resident members who have
been away three or more years and
who do not answer the correspond-
ence sent by the church, shall be no-
tified and if nothing is heard from
them in thirty days after such notice
is sent they are hereby directed to
be dropped from the church list."
January 4th, 1911, "That the names
of our non-resident members whose
address is not known after efforts to
find the same, be placed on a list and
may be carried two years. At the ex-
piration of said time those not heard
from during this time be erased from
the church roll."
June, 1858;, | "Resolved, That any
members who absent themselves for
three successive regular meetings
shall be looked after by a committee.''
It is significant that this rule has
never been repealed.
November 3, 1897. "The Board of
Deacons recommend that a circular
letter to non-resident members be
prepared, urging (1) the importance
of active church work; (2) of uniting
with Baptist churches where they
now live, if possible, or if not, of com-
municating with this church at least
once per year and aiding in its sup-
port." These circular letters were to
99
be sent out as occasion requires at
the discretion of the deacons.
November 3, 1909. "This is to cer-
tify that Evangelist Rev. R. S. Kirk-
land, is a member of the First Bap-
tist Church of Urbana, Illinois. He
has the respect of the membership of
the church. As an evangelist !his
work has been successful. His evan-
gelistic efforts are along safe, and
reasonable interpretation of New
Testament doctrines, and we wish for
him the largest blessing of the Lord."
March 2, 1910. "A recommendation
was made by the Trustees that all
members failing to contribute toward
the support of the church for a pe-
riod of one year shall at the option
of the trustees be placed on a delin-
quent list." The recommendation
was adopted by the church.
July 5th, 1907. "Whereas, there
seems to be a growing inclination to
disregard and use the Lord's day for
J. W. Cushmnn
purely secular pleasure; and Where-
as, it is reported that this practice
has in many places resulted in great-
ly lessening the attendance upon di-
vine worship and weakening the spir-
ituality of the church members, and
as it is directly opposed both in let-
ter and in spirit to the teachings of
our Saviour, therefore: Resolved,
That we, the Board of Deacons of the
First Baptist church, do recommend
that the church enact and enforce the
following rule. No member shall hold
any office in this church, or teach in
its Sunday school, who attends ball
games, theatres, or similar shows on
Sunday. No Sunday School, Class, or
Society picnics shall be permitted on
Sunday."
The recommendation was laid over
for one month, and then passed.
First Indoors Baptistry.
(Should be on page 60).
Soon after Elder G. M. Shott ac-
cepted the pastorate of the church it
was necessary to baptize some who
had been admitted for the ordinance.
Being in delicate health he refused to
administer the ordinance in the open,
and J. W. Cushman felt impressed
that it was his part to help in meet-
ing this emergency. Accordingly,
with some other volunteer help he
planned the first indoor baptistry in
the history of the church.
Many delightful, and touching
scenes were witnessed around that old
baptistry. The magnificent back-
ground of our present baptistry may
never conceal from eyes often wet
with glad tears, that first, and older
burial place. There may not be an
Apostolic succession, but there is a
succession of splendid Baptisteries by
which we may trace the history of
this New Testament ordinance from
the Jordan in the time of Christ till
now.
100
CHURCH MEMBERSHIP TABLE
: "3
j I
m O
-<-> :
a
o -^
fl O
s
E
e
c
a.
-5
a
c
a
Q
>> a
y ~l r-
f &
~*
pq
2 i-i
.3 5
v co
X <1>
H Q
a
e
I &
ffi H
H
1851
1855
1856
1857
1858
1859
1850
1861
18G2
1863
1864
1865
1866
1867
1868
1869
1870
1871
1872
1873
1874
1875
1876
1877
1878
1879
1880
1881
1882
1883
1884
1885
1886
1887
1888
1889
1890
1891
1892
1893
1894
30
110
220
12
15|
25| 7
14 1 8
6J 2(22
7(24 32
9j' 7(15
9110(13
5J J15J 9j
Ll'l 21131 7
39
53
70
55
59
75
105
155
202
7| 2(201
7J 3(294
6 7(267
6(7 (307
41 1
8| 4
10J 2
51 3
24
12
131 6
10] 2
14
10
6j 1
6| 1
(288
164
157
144
162
161
180
179
6| 3| 2(148
12 4| 1(160
4j 7| 2|275
6 6 2J300
1|290
20(13(10
45(11 2|19| 9| 2(319
3| 9| (21) 9| 4(270
9|15|- 9| 51 2(252
143|ll|12|31|12 (371
22| 7| -3(331111 3(378
12( 2| |38|10| 3(350
33 j 6| 3|12|25| (355
I 71 1|15|13( 5(328
2|10| (16(29
34| 7| 2| 5
I 7 ! I 16 ,
9|13| 7|16|26
2| 9| 3 9(15
41 21 3115!
3(298
1(333
2(318
2(300
3|282
3(306
62|27| 51 9 91 41342
1503.00
52.00
93.00
1528.45|114.75
1500.00 78.23
1500.00| 30.00
1087.54|196,88|184.00| 41.55
75.00
63.00
60.00
2.00
3.00
3.00
3.00
4.00
3.00
3.00
2.00 1
1.65
88.00
2.00
3.00
3.00
3.00
4.00
3.00
3.00
2.00
75.00
1.65
G3.00
1703.00
1000.00 190.04
1213.75J118.60
100.00]
28.40(1671.60
69.68 1740.91
2.00(11532.00
150'9.97
1293.04
3.00
96.65(669.00(2098.00
1108.49|114.51|116.71| 65.66 1405.37
1047.06|252.80H08.00|169.35|1577.21
1169.00|197:24|107.00J 31.00 1504.14
1097.00(128.13
1183.00J249.03| 79.25
1000.00J376.22| 75.00|
1076.00|171.33|100.00|
1100.00| 78.55
98.00| (1323.13
89.50(1600.78
1451.22
3.00(1350.33
3.00|1279.05
21.9511138.29
97.50|
800.00|193.95|122.39|
800.00|296.87| 89.22|179.00|1423.84
1753.33I165.15|105.53|229.50|2253.51
101
1895
69
10
18
50
11
8
15
16
19
21
3
54
112
15
20
56
60
4
8
u;
23
15
10
21
12
;:i
8
10
15
44
25
17
U
5
28
17
1
2
10
2
5
5
3
1
22
11
5
10
11
14
3
10
21
1C,
15
16
11
15
20
1!)
12
25
15
15
12
21
9
4
6
7
11
10
2<;
3
12
10
1
28
5
1
3
3
7
2
7
6
5
6
7
9
6
7
4
5
404
418
450
503
489
485
498
482
519
534
526
519
514
624
634
665
699
693
1598.S6
2316.15
1600.00
1693.00'
1738.00
1740.00
1890.62
'2002.40
2285.37
5868.38
6168.00
6800.00'
3170.15
3233.78
5627.80
7439.74
4407.39
4174.02
79.50
182.69
139.71
420.79
229.05
243.98
261.50
881.36
307.24
285.29
147.75
315.21
307.35
552.36
555.18
555.33
557.74
866.66
120.36
134.50
124.95
101.27
106.00
125.00
183.59
150.83
179.00
145.47
191.00
147.12
250.00
450.00
516.36
450.00
450.00
275.00
43.20
454.00
238.65
930.10
641.50
280.37
4.00
529.00
40.00
23.70
35.00
118.82
56.75
295.77
307.51
172.91
435.56
1863.9
1841.92
3087.34
2103.31
3145.16
2714.65
2389.35
2339.71
3163.59
2811.61
6322.84
6541.75
7381.15
3784.25
4531.91
7006.85
8617.98
5850.29
) 7179.67
1896
1897
1898
1899
1900
1901
1902
1903
1904
1905
190G
1907 -.
1908
1909
1910
1911
1912
-W9
* ~
w . S
P 1 <e> en oo P
to co -a to oo
t>s oo -q 01 (Si
k 10 O J- 1
I O O -J O OJ
> CO -J O -3 3
I-* i
>* CO C5 tO -31-
t- 1 O? -~1 -J CO C
i) ( -1 -3 C
Constituents.
At the last moment some valuable
information has come to the Commit-
tee, and also a picture from which we
are able to present another constituent
member with her history. Samuel
Brumley, a constituent member, was
born November 1st, 1797, and died
January 19, 1950. December 1th, 1817,
he was married to Eliza C. Hodges,
who was born September 18th, 1798.
She also was a constituent member.
They were the parents of seven sons,
and five daughters, all of whom lived
to adult age. They came from Shel-
by county, Ky., to Champaign, Illinois,
in November, 1830. John R. Brumley,
another constituent memebr, was born
October 12th, 1824. He was a son of
Samuel and Eliza Brumley. He died
August 26th, 1853. Elizabeth (Lee)
Truman, another constituent member,
was born November 30th, 1796, and
married John Truman, December 22nd,
1818, and died Miarch 1st, 1855. She
was the mother of four sons, and six
daughters, all of whom were grown,
and survived their mother's death.
The names of these original members
may be seen with others on page 4.
Mrs. Eliza C. Brumley.
102
Rev. S. F. Gleason
' 'Tis hard to lay into the earth
A countenance so benign! a form that walked
But yesterday so stately o'er the earth."
The Rev. S. F. Gleason was never
a member of the Urbana Baptist
church, but was always a welcome
guest in its homes, and gladly heard
as a preacher in its pulpit. It was
through his orderly habits of pre-
serving minutes, and other documents
of the Bloomfield Association, that
the Historical Committee have been
able to make as good a record as we
present in this volume. Your Com-
mittee delights to honor the charac-
ter of such a man, and perpetuate
his memory, by making permanent
his picture, and adding this bri^f
record of our appreciation. Mrs. S.
F. Gleason was very kind, and willing
to part with these accumulations of
long years, in order that they might
serve the cause she loves as dearly as
her honored husband loved it.
Your Committee has secured these
Minutes with the understanding that
they are to be bound in some practi-
cal way so that the separate copies
may not be lost, and they are to be
kept with the archives of the Urbana
church, where they may be consulted
by any historian seeking to write on
any subject which they may aid.
Brother Gleason was Secretary of
State Convention for 23 consecutive
years. He has been loved, and greatly
honored by his brethren. He has been
Moderator of the Bloomfield Associa-
tion 21 years, as follows: 1871, 1873,
1883-1895, 1897-1902.
He was clerk of the Bloomfield as-
sociation for four years, as follows:
1874, 1875, 1881, 1882. He was ap-
pointed, and preached the introduc-
tory sermon 1872, 1877, 1888. As
Moderator, his rulings were never
disputed, and his appointments of
Committees always very satisfactory.
His influence will live 'as long as
any remain who knew him personal-
ly and the Committee hopes this hum-
ble tribute to his careful habits, and
sweet spirit may be perpetuated
wherever, and whenever this book is
read. He held the Pastorate of the
Mahomet church for 18 years and
again a second pastorate in Mahomet
for three years, and at Gifford, 111., for
10 years. He was born January 1,
1839. Ordained June 10, 1865. Died,
Sept. 25th, 1905.
103
D. L. Scroggins. Assistant Supt.
D. L. Scroggins, Assistant Superin-
tendent, should be on page 67, side by
side with C. W. Richards. He is a
regular attendant upon all services of
the church and makes a specialty o*
Sunday school work.
R. S. Kirkland
Evangelist.
Rev. R. S. Kirkland, an evangelist,
is a member with us, and owns prop-
erty here, and is educating his family
here. This is his headquarters and
he frequently returns and takes part
in our meetings and reports his work
from the various fields where he la-
bors. He is a man of very deep con-
victions and deals with the truth from
the radical standpoint. He is away
most of the year holding meetings
with pastors and unions. He and
Professor Leonard led an evangelistic
campaign in the home church a short
while ago.
F. F. Leonard.
Evangelistic Singer.
Prof. F. F. Leonard, an evangelis-
tic singer, is a member of our church
and makes his headquarters in Ur-
bana, while he goes all over the
country singing, and oftimes preach-
ing the Gospel. He can conduct his
own meeting, doing preaching, or
singing, or both. It is always a pleas-
ure to have him return home, and join
in our church services. Our people
104
are very fond of his singing, and
leadership. His delightful family are
members with us and take full part in
our work.
B. S. Lanham.
MYRA SILVERS FUND.
October 6th, 1909, the trustees re-
ported the gift of $300 by Miss Myra
Silvers, which has been kept as a
sort of Music Fund. This fund ought
to be greatly increased by additions of
larger or smaller sums on the part of
those who appreciate good music.
It is very desirable that this fund
should be increased to a sufficiently
large sum that the income will furnish
our choir with plenty of new music,
as they may need it. The Trustees
will accept any bequest, large o-
small, if designated for this fund and
hold it in trust to the memory of Miss
Myra Silver.
Mrs. Eliza W. Silver, who died in
1863, was one of the oldest members.
Her son, Wallace Silver, still sur-
vives.
Miss Myra Silver.
B. S. Lanham was the custodian of
Incidental funds for many years in the
church during that period when the
church elected two Treasurers.
Brother Lanham was elected fre-
quently before and after Deacon Dud-
ley McClain died. The latter ha-3
been very deeply interested in this
part of the finance of the church anc,
very commendably had started e trus*
fund for that purpose. At the funeral
of Deacon Dudley McClain his spe-
cial fund was increased to $400.00 and
a mortgage was paid, and the iun: 1
ceased.
December 31, 1880, the church be-
gan to elect a single Treasurer and B
S. Lanham was elscted as the first
single treasurer.
He was also a regular attendant at
Prayer and Business Meetings, and
enjoyed the revival meetings, and
baptismal services.
105
Farther Lights.
Monday night, August 25th, 1913, a
company of the young girls of the
church, met in the Parsonage, and or-
ganized a young girls' Missionary so-
ciety, and adopted the name given
above. Miss Elizabeth Webber was
elected president, Miss Margaret Cof-
fey, 1st Vice President, Miss Maud
Snyder, 2nd Vice President, Miss
Bessie Winchester, 3rd Vice President,
Miss Helen Freeman, 4th Vice Presi-
dent, Miss Esther Condit, Secretary,
and Miss Ella Zipprodt, Treasurer.
These Vice Presidents are at the
head of the various committees. The
Society will meet on the First Tues-
day in every month at 7:30 in the
Parsonage.
OFFICIAL DIRECTORY
Pastor Rev. G. M. Shott, D.D.
Moderator j. s. Hall
Clerk Horace B. Ingalls
Treasurer.... ....E. M. Knowlton
DEACONS
President H. P. Stinespring
Clerk Ed. Lanham
E. P. Barnhart. W. I. Roberts.
L. A. McLean. Hiram Jones.
E. T. Strong. J. S. Hall.
W. L. Bennett.
M'CLAIN-BUSEY FUND.
Deacon Dudley McClain had charge
of the incidental funds of the church
till he became thoroughly interested
in it, and began accumulating a fund
which was to be known as the Mc-
Clain-Busey fund for incidentals, tie
church agreeing to keep the fund up
to Three Hundred Dollars. On the TRUSTEES
day of Deacon McClain's funeral the President F. C. Hubbard
church paid a debt of $400.00 on mort- Secretary Charles J. Johnson
gage as a memorial to him. Other W. R. Barnhart. E. A. Winchester,
memorials should be organized for fu- George Douglass. Dr. C. D. Gulick.
ture contingencies.
SUNDAY SCHOOL
TWO NEEDS. Supt C - W - Richards
The first need of our school is that Asst Su & D - L - Scroggins
the teachers and officers shall em-
phasize the importance of pupils who WOMAN'S MISSION CIRCLE
are church members forming the hab- President....M rs. Leota Stinespring
it of attendance at church services. vice Pres Mrs - Catherine Hissong
The school was never intended to be
a substitute for church attendance. LADIES' EXTENSION SOCIETY
It defeats its purpose when made a President Mrs. C. L. Van Doren
substitute. The next need is a prop-
erly built primary building, where we YOUNG PEOPLE'S UNION
may care for all little ones in a light President S. A. Rwland
and comfortable room. Vice-President Agnes Newell
106
rti.
INDEX
o
N. B. Chapter V and VI are misplaced, and the mistake was not discovered
till too late to correct it. This in nowise interferes with the continuity of the
history.
CHAPTER I. Pages 1-2.
Aboriginal Hisiory. Organization of First Church in the State. Indians.
Pottawotamies and Kickapoos.
CHAPTER II. Pages 3-12.
Original History. Organization of First Church, Urbana. Elder Isaac
Newell. Original 13. Mrs. Matilda Bryant. J. T. Roe. Mathias Rinehart. Log
School House. Rev. D. S. French, D.D. James Myers. James Busey. William
Gill. Dudley McClain. J. M. Everett. Edward Ater. Robert Slater. G. W.
Riley. Mrs. Bethire Riley.
CHAPTER III. Pages 12-22.
Median History. Elder D. F. Carnahan. Rev. W. H. Steadman, D.D. Rev.
G. M. Shott. George A. Walker. Rev. E. C. Sage, Ph.D. Rev F. J. Leavitt.
CHAPTER IV. Pages 22-31.
Rev. W. W. Smith. Rev. J. W. Primm. Rev. J. F. Mills, Ph.D. Rev. M. L.
Rugg, D.D. Rev. J. A. Brown. Rev. R. V. Meigs. Rev. G. M. Shott, D.D.
Fourth quarter century.
CHAPTER V. Pages 40-50.
Past Membership Roll. Membership of the Past. Old Guard.
CHAPTER VI. Pages 51-57.
Present membership. Baptist Proportion.
CHAPTER VII. Pages 32-35.
Pastors. Deacons. Clerks. F. M. Snyder. License.
CHAPTER VIII. Pages 36-39.
Finance. Treasurers. Trustees. E. M. Knowlton. Hospitality. Benevo-
lence Table.
CHAPTER IX. Pages 58-70
Meeting Houses. Dedications. Parsonages. "Mother Busey." George
Brash.
CHAPTER X. Pages 70-75.
Sunday School. C. W. Richards. D. L. Scroggins. Sunday School Table.
Organized Classes. Departments. Branch School No. 1.
CHAPTER XI. Pages 75-78.
Young People's Organizations. Senior. Junior. Intermediate.
CHAPTER XII. Pages 78-88.
Missions. Centennial. Herald of Hope. Rev. Edgar Woolhouse. Mrs.
Woolhouse. Cunningham Avenue Church. Miss Nelle Hubbard.
CHAPTER XIII. Pages 88-106.
Music. Robert Slater. N. A. Riley. George M. Bennett. Pipe Organ. La-
dies' Extension Society. Woman's Mission Circle. Baptist Boys' Brigade.
Children of the King. First Church, and the University. University Baptist
Church. Resolutions. Indoor Baptistry. J. W. Cushman. Miss Myra Silver.
Mrs. Eliza Brumley. B. S. Lanham. (Should be on page 37.) Rev. R. S.
Kirkland. Prof. F. F. Leonard.
ERRATA
Page 9 A picture of Deacon Edward Ater was found too late for a cut.
Page 26 Near bottom of first column read March 5, 190;?, instead of J892.
Page 27 Balance line should be above balance and not. below
Page 29 Near bottom of first cohim, the para&raph on page 104 concerning
Miss Myra Silver, should be inserted.
Page 38 In middle article, right hand column, second line, from top read
Eighteen hundred Dollars are pledged and most of it collected. The
effort will continue till the full amount is raised. In last sentence
Brother F. C. Hubbard wishes his name omitted and all 'lonor given
to God.
Page 39 Bottom of table and statistics for 1913. State, $129.02. Home, $71.85.
W. H. M., $75.00. Foreign, $129.67. W. F. M., $80.00. 5'ub. Soc.,
$18.59. Education, $16.74. Min. Home, $6.97. Total, $955.40. .Add
this to Grand Total, which will make the following total of all Be-
nevolence reported for 75 years. State Missions, $1,878.68. Home,
$1,586.88. W. H. M., $946.69. Foreign, $3,479.02. W. F. M.. $1,023.95.
Pub Soc., $975.40. Education. $2,245.18. Min. Home, $191.79. Grand
Total, $12,327.59.
Page 42 Add Mrs. William Creech.
Page 54 Omit name of Miss Caroline Nogle, who is now Mrs. Ralph Grimes.
Page 72- Second line from top right hand column read appointed May 12, 1913.
Page 74 Year 1898 E. C. Downey was Superintendent instead of C. A. Tufts.
Year 1899 reads as follows: J. H. Hall. Off. and Teachers. 34. Schol-
ars, 348. Av. At. 225. Expenses, $10>. Co. Missions, $15.00. Total,
$121.00. The grand total includes thifa year.
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS-URBAN*
"VENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY HISTORY. URBAN
