Los Angeles County CA Archives History - Books .....Public Institutions 1908
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Book Title: Ingersoll's Century History, Santa Monica Bay Cities

CHAPTER VIII.

CHURCHES AND SOCIETIES. 

METHODIST CHURCH.

THE oldest record of the Methodist church of Santa Monica reads: "Minutes of the
First Quarterly Conference for Santa Monica, held October 26th, 1875, at the
residence of D. G. C. Baker. The presiding elder, A. M. Hough, in the chair. The
session was opened with prayer by the presiding elder. On motion Rev. J. D. Crum
was appointed secretary. Organization: The following named persons, members of
the Methodist Episcopal church, being present, proceeded to organize a society:
J. D. D. Crum, pastor; O. A. Snow, local preacher; D. G. C. Baker, A. Dutton, M.
J. D. Baker, Eliza Corey, Ida May Atkinson, Margaret Atkinson, Minnie Atkinson
and Mary A. Crum. Abner Dutton was appointed class leader. Stewards: D. G. C.
Baker, O. A. Snow and Margaret Atkinson. B. G. C. Baker, recording secretary.
Trustees: O. A. Snow, R. M. Widney, Samuel Atkinson, D. G. C. Baker and J. D. Crum.

It was resolved that the trustees be instructed to incorporate and secure lots
from the Santa Monica Land Company and erect a church building thereon. Margaret
Atkinson and Mrs. M. J. D. Baker were appointed a committee to secure
subscriptions to aid in the erection of a church."

    The Reverend Crum preached for the first time in Santa Monica, October 15th,
1875, in an upper room of the buildng, then occupied as a hardware store, on the
corner of Oregon and Fifth street. On October 29th Rev. Hough preached. The
society continued to use this room until January 13th, 1876, when the pastor
gave notice that there would be no service on the next Sabbath, but that he
hoped they would worship in a building of their own on the second Sunday. And
this was done. The Santa Monica Land Company donated two lots for the use of the
church on the corner of Sixth street and Arizona avenue; the people of the
little town, still largely a tent city, donated money and labor. Rev. A. M.
Hough and R. M. Widney of Los Angeles subscribed liberally, and the pastor,
being of the long line of Methodist elders who were able to work with hands as
well as with brain and heart, himself labored with carpenter's tools. The church
when completed, represented a value, including lots of $1,361.66. This building,
after being removed to the corner of Fourth and Arizona, enlarged several times,
was finally removed to South Santa Monica to house the new M. E. church there.

    This building was dedicated, free from debt, on February 3rd, 1776.[sic]
Rev. Crum was pastor of the church most of the time until 1878-79. He came of a
family of ministers, his grandfather having been one of the founders of the
United Brethren church and having had nine grandsons who entered the Methodist
ministry. He had spent fifteen years in the Southern Illinois conference before
coming to this state, where his first charge was the Santa Monica church, which
he so ably led under many discouragements. It is of record that for his first
year of labor here he received $230, and his salary in the subsequent years was
pitifully inadequate.

    Rev. Crum was succeeded by Rev. S. S. Russell, who only remained a year, and
then for three years the church was pastorless and practically disorganized. A
pastor was sent here in 1883-4, Rev. J. B. Howard, who found but three resident
members of the church. He nevertheless succeeded in gathering a number of new
members and strengthened the church by changing the location. The lots on Sixth
street were sold and the present location on Fourth street and Arizona avenue
was purchased and the building removed.

    The church continued to gain slowly under various pastors until 1890, when a
serious disagreement occurred between the pastor, the official board and the
membership, and as a result thirty-one out of the fifty-three members withdrew
and formed the Prohibition Congregational church. The blow was a severe one and
the church did not recover its strength for two or three years.

In 1892 Mr. and Mrs. F. H. Rindge became members of the church and rendered much
assistance to it. Rev. Wm. Stevenson was pastor, and under his ministrations the
church was doubled in membership and began an advance move which has since
continued. The Epworth League was formed this year. Dr. Stevenson remained as
pastor of the church until 1897 and was then given a farewell reception which
expressed somewhat the honor and love which he had inspired, not only in the
church, but among the citizens of the town generally.

    In June, 1895, it was announced that Frederick H. Rindge proposed to build a
new church building, free of all cost to the church, provided it would agree to
meet the pastor's salary and all incidental expenses. In consequence on August
13th, 1895, ground was broken for this building and on the first Sabbath in
1896, the most beautiful Methodist church building in Southern California was
dedicated.

    In 1897-98 Rev. R. C. Wuestenberg was pastor and the membership was
increased to 150, while the Sunday school numbered from 250-270. In July, 1898,
it was voted to remove the old church to South Santa Monica, where a mission was
holding service in the old Santa Fe depot. But after some agitation the action
was not taken. In August, 1899, a church was organized, then known as South
Santa Monica M. E. church, with Rev. F. G. H. Stevens as pastor, the mission
having been served by Rev. Robert Fisher. In December, the old church was
donated to the new organization and was moved to Ocean Park. A new parsonage was
erected on the site of the old parsonage.

    Rev. C. T. Wilson and Rev. T. H. Woodward served as pastors and Rev. J. C.
Healy served during 1901 to 1903. During his term the parsonage was completed, a
neat cottage which was a decided addition to the advantages of the church. In
1903 came Rev. F. G. H. Stevens, who still remains—one of the ablest and best
beloved of the many good men who have served this church.

    Now, in 1907, the church has a membership of 240, while the Sunday school
reaches 350. So rapid has been the growth of the church and congregations that
the church of ten years ago is inadequate and an addition which will more than
double the seating capacity of the structure is in course of erection.

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SANTA MONICA.

    The history of the Presbyterian church of Santa Monica dates back to
September I2th, 1875, when a Sunday school was organized at the house of W. D.
Vawter. on Fourth street, the present home of the Misses Vawter. Later this
school met in a hall on the corner of Fifth and Oregon, generously offered to
them by Mr. J. O. Brady.

    On Septetmber 24th, a petition signed by twelve persons, was sent to the
Rev. Dr. White, chairman of the committee of the Presbytery, asking him to come
to Santa Monica and organize a Presbyterian church. On Tuesday. September 28th,
Dr. White met with the petitioners and organized them in accordance with their
request into the "First Presbyterian Church of Santa Monica." The names of the
petitioners were as follows: Mr. R. S. Bassett, Mrs. E. Bassett, Miss Rose
Bassett, Mr. T. H. Clark, Mrs. E. Mountain, Misses Mattie A. Mountain, Mr. L. M.
Perkins, Mrs. S. P. Perkins, Mrs. C. A. Vawter, Miss May Vawter, Miss Jennie
Vawter, Miss Emma Yawter. The trustees of the new organization were: Y. S.
Grinshaw, E. J. Vawter, G. W. Brady, W. S. Vawter.

    The new society proceeded at once to provide themselves with a permanent
place of worship. Messrs. Jones and Baker presented the church with two lots at
the corner of Third and Arizona, and on these was erected the chapel which for
eleven years was used, and was then moved to the rear of the lots, enlarged, and
used for infant classes, mid-week meetings and socials. The Presbyterian Board
of Church Erection assisted in building this first church, work on which was
commenced January 17th, 1876, and which was dedicated March 12th.

    On Sunday, July 10th, 1887, a move was made for building a more commodious
place of worship. On that day Col. Elliott F. Shepherd, proprietor of the New
York Mail and Express, and an elder of the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian church of
New York City, happened to be present and, hearing that the church intended to
build, started the list with a subscription of $230. Encouraged by this
beginning, a committee consisting of Mrs. Mary E. Treadwell and Miss Jennie
Vawter was appointed to canvas the congregation and community. By their
energetic efforts sufficient funds were soon subscribed to erect and .enclose
the new church building. But before the completion of the work came the collapse
of the boom and many of the subscriptions were not paid in. The ladies of the
church met this condition and it is largely due to their efforts that the church
was finally completed and dedicated, Sunday, September 4th, 1892. The ladies
held a memorable series of entertainments during the four years of church
building. The success of the Santa Monica ladies in taking the first prize at
the Floral Festival in Los Angeles, suggested the idea of a Floral Festival at
home. In 1889 a "Feast of Flowers" was held in the new church building, then
unfinished, which was arranged by the ladies of the town under the auspices of
the Presbyterian ladies and which was acknowledged as one of the most beautiful
floral exhibits ever made in Southern California. The succeeding year a Kalendar
Kirmess was given, lasting three days, the booths representing the months and
the whole conception most artistically designed and carried out. In 1891 another
"Spring Festival" was held which was an equally rich display of Santa Monica's
floral wealth. These affairs were participated in by the people of Santa Monica
generally and attracted many visitors from Los Angeles and other places. Much of
their success was due to the energy and executive ability of the committee of
which Miss Jennie Vawter was chairman.

    The new church is of the Queen Anne style, ceiled and wainscoted within with
cedar, lighted with stained glass windows and electrical chandeliers, and with a
seating capacity of 250. The total cost was about $7,000, of which over $1,000
was contributed by Mr. W. D. Vawter, to whose encouragement at the outset and
liberal contributions, the success of the undertaking was largely due. It was
built under the supervision of a committee consisting of Messrs. W. S. Vawter,
Patrick Robertson and E. H. Sweetser.

    In the summer of 1907 a fine pipe organ was placed in the church as a
memorial gift from Mr. Joseph H. Clark to the memory of his son, Edward H.
Clerk. It was built by the Estey Company and was installed at a cost of $2,600.

    The following ministers have served the church since 1875 as pastors, or as
stated supplies: I. M. Condit, H. V. Noyes, John W. Ellis, H. Mackay, Thos. F.
Fotheringham, Williel O. Thompson, J. W. Healy, Richmond Logan, James White,
Samuel H. Weller, Enos P. Baker, J. B. Stewart, William R. Henderson, O. F.
Wisner, Amos A. Randall, Henry P. Wilber. The following have served as ruling
elders: G. H. Clark, J. C. Olmstead, Geo. A. Armtsrong, William E. Case, H. H.
Dow, George D. Rowan, Andrew J. Viele, John M. Coyner, James E. Ward, C. S.
Dales, Clarkson N. Guyer, T. H. Wells, H. J. White, T. E. Cramer.

CATHOLIC CHURCH.

    July 28th, 1877, the Outlook states, saw the celebration of mass, for the
first time in the new town of Santa Monica. The service was held in the house of
Judge Morgan, Reverend Father Verdaguer, the beloved "Father Peter" of the Plaza
church, Los Angeles, presiding. Services were probably held at irregular
intervals thereafter until May 4th, 1884, when the Catholic church was opened
for use, although it was not completed until the following year. On August i8th,
1885, the bell of the church was blessed and the church was dedicated.

    In May, 1886, came Father Patrick Hawe as pastor of the church, and since
that date Father Hawe has been the mainspring of the parish and the church work
in this vicinity. Under his supervision was built the parochial house adjoining
the church and the addition to the orginal church building which was dedicated
August igth, 1888, by Bishop Mora. In 1887 the statue of Saint Monica was
presented to the church by Mrs. Victor Ponet, of Los Angeles. Also this year was
built the Catholic church at Ballona, now Palms, St. Augustine's—named for the
son of Saint Monica very fittingly, since this mission was an offshoot of Saint
Monica's church.

    In 1899, July i6th, a small band of Sisters of the Holy Name, came to Santa
Monica to establish an academy. They rented a private house on Fourth street,
and September 4th, opened their school with nineteen pupils. The year closed
with fifty-two childrn under the charge of the Sisters.

    September 26th, 1890, the ground was- broken for the building of the Academy
of Holy Names on the corner of Third and Arizona streets. February 22nd, 1901,
witnessed the dedication of the new building. This was an impressive ceremony
and the occasion is one that will long live in the memory of the participants
and witnesses. The civic services were the finest ever held in Santa Monica.
Under the management of the grand marshal, J. J. Carrillo and his fifty aides,
richly caprisoried as Spanish cabelleros, the parade was viewed in front of the
academy. It consisted of a number of old soldiers from the Soldiers' Home; a
float representing all the states and territories; two brass bands; nine
societies from Los Angeles; Santa Monica Board of Trustees and fire department,
and the children from the academy, the Ballona, Santa Monica and Canyon Sunday
schools. As General La Grange, and the city officials, escorting the clergy,
left their carriages the home band played "patriotic songs and the cannon of the
Soldiers' Home boomed, while the flag unfurled and spilled the fragrant roses
hidden within its folds." The mayor of Los Angeles welcomed the guests; Right
Reverend Bishop Montgomery delivered the oration. Thus was the school
inaugurated in its beautiful home.

    On May 5th, 1903, the academy was honored by a visit from Rev. Archbishop
Diomede Falconi, representative in this country of the Pope, Leo XIII. The
occasion was made a festal day and the distinguished guest was paid every honor,
not only by the clergy and laity of the Catholic church, but by the city
officials and citizens generally. July 10th, 1903, was a day long remembered in
the annals of Santa Monica. It was given up to the entertainment of the Knights
of Columbia, who had that year held their annual session in Los Angeles. The
streets and buildings were brilliantly decorated and the population turned out
to welcome the guests who, in turn, gazed -with admiration upon the chasms of
fair Santa Monica. The day was still further marked by the inauguration of a
council of the Knights of Columbus in this city, a council which has flourished
and is now a powerful ally of the church.

    In 1904, under the auspices of Bishop Conaty, now head of this diocese, the
Catholic Teachers' Institute was held in this city, and since that date these
institutes have been an annual feature of the life of the Sisters who are
engaged in teaching. As guests of the Academy of the Holy Name they spend two
weeks each summer in listening to the instructions and lectures of distinguished
teachers.

    But perhaps the most glorious of all gala days in the annals of Saint
Monica's was the celebration of May 8th, 1904. This was a triple festival, for
it marked the twentieth anniversary of the founding of the Church of Saint
Monica's, the eighteenth year of Father Hawe's service to this parish and the
dedication of the church of St. Clement, of Ocean Park. This church had been
started by Father Hawe ten years before as a mission. The corner-stone for the
handsome building was laid on August 24th, 1903, and the church was finally
dedicated August 2Oth, 1905. The Reverend Michael Hennessy is the rector of this
church.

    The chapel at the Soldiers' Home is also included in Father Hawe's parish,
he having held the first services on the grounds of the Home, soon after it was
instituted in 1889. A beautiful building has been erected by the government,
containing two chapels—one for the use of the Protestant churches and one for
Catholic services. The churches now included in the parish of Saint Monica are
four, beside the academy. The entire number of communicants is large.

    January 15th, 1903, Reverend James A. O'Callaghan came to Santa Monica to
relieve the head of the parish and assist him in his labors. Father O'Callaghan
is a man o'f fine education and of superior qualities and has been of the
greatest value to the parish. In 1906 Father Hawe visited the home of his birth
and also visited the venerable Father Adam, of beloved memory throughout
California. During his stay in Europe Father Hawe also visited Rome and received
the blessing of the Pope. He is again welcomed to his own field where he guides
the many affairs co-incident with so large and important a parish.

    Plans are already made for greatly enlarging the work of the Catholic church
in Santa Monica. It is hoped soon to begin work upon a cathedral which shall be
a magnificent expression of worship, to be located on the corner of California
avenue and Fourth street. The Christian Brothers, a Catholic organization, has
recently secured a site of eleven acres between California and Nevada avenues,
Ninth and Eleventh streets. Here a large college for boys will be established.

EPISCOPAL CHURCH—SAINT AUGUSTINE-BY-THE-SEA.

    The first Episcopalian service held in this city was an Easter service in
Roger's Hall, April 15th, 1876. The hall was suitably decorated for the occasion
and the Rev. J. B. Gray officiated. After this there was talk of forming an
Episcopal society here and a number expressed themselves willing to contribute
to a building fund for such a church; but it was not until about November, 1885,
that services were regularly held and a Sunday school organized. At that time
the Rev. Henry Scott Jefferys, of Los Angeles, was appointed by Bishop Kip as
missionary in charge of the work and at once proceeded to secure land and money
for the erection of an Episcopal church. Senator Jones and Mrs. Baker donated
two lots on Fourth street and an active building committee, consisting of Rev.
Jefferys, Messrs. Baxter and Tomkinson, set to work to get the needed
subscriptions. At the end of the first year of Mr. Jeffery's labors, sixteen
adults and twenty-two children were connected with the mission.

    The corner-stone for a chapel to cost $3,000 was laid with much ceremony on
June 10th, 1887. Bishop Wingfield acted for the Bishop of California and there
were present beside the Bishop, the Rev. Elias Birdsell, rector of St. Paul's
church, Los Angeles; the Rev. A. G. C. Trew, of San Gabriel; the Rev. J. D. H.
Browne, rector of All Saints' church, Pasadena; the Rev. J. B. Britton, a
retired missionary and the missionary in charge. In 1888, through the successful
labors of Mr. Jefferys and the people the new church was opened for divine
worship and a large congregation assembled, the preacher being the rector of
Pasadena.

    Mr. Jefferys resigned in the early part of 1889 and the Rev. Orrin Judd, of
North Carolina, succeeded him. Mr. Judd had come to California broken down in
health; but he was a most eloquent preacher, which gift led to his resignation
of this charge a year later to accept the new church of St. John on West Adams
street, Los Angeles, which had been built in order to find a place for him in
the city. During Mr. Judd's incumbency the work prospered and considerable
additions were made to the membership of the church.

    The Rev. P. S. Ruth, of Pomona, officiated temporarily until September,
1891, when the Rev, I. M. M. Jones became rector. Mr. Jones remained in charge
for nearly six years and during that period the Parish Hall was built and in
many ways the church made progress. On the resignation of Mr. Jones, the Rev.
Edward Meany officiated temporarily and, at a critical time in the history of
the congregation, maintained the regular services of the church and did much to
arouse the people. When, in May, 1900, Mr. Meany's school duties in Los Angeles
compelled him to resign, he was succeeded by the present rector, the Rev. John
D. H. Browne, who had been for sixteen years in Southern California and who had
just resigned St. John's church, San Bernardino.

    During the nearly eight years that have intervened since Mr. Browne assumed
the work, there has been steady growth. The church building has been enlarged at
a cost of $3,000, and has also been beautified by many costly memorials. The
parish hall has been enlarged and finished within, and a $600 piano provided,
with many other improvements made. The roll of communicants has increased from
27 to 201. The contributions for the parish and for the missionary funds of the
diocese and the foreign field have multiplied many-fold. The baptisms have been
over 100 and the confirmations 75. The Sunday school has grown very much and
under the care of Mr. Percy J. Dudley, as superintendent, is accomplishing a
good work, especially among the boys. The Parish Guild, the Woman's Auxiliary,
the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, the Daughters of the King, the Junior Auxiliary
are all in active life and meeting the needs of old arid young.

    The Parish of St. Augustine-by-the-Sea has come to occupy the seventh place
among the parishes of the diocese and bids fair to continue to grow in
importance and increase in influence for good in the life of the city. The
present officers of the parish and members of the vestry are: Rev. John D. H.
Browne, rector; Hon. T. H. Dudley, senior warden; Mr. C. S. Ravnor, junior
warden; Mr. J. B. Proctor, vestry clerk; Mr. Percy J. Dudley, treasurer; Mr. J.
F. Ordway, Mr. E. L. Young, Mr. H. J. Blake and Mr. C. C. Melville.

BAPTIST CHURCH.

    In April, 1889, Mrs. Drane living on South Third street, near Sand street,
gathered together a number of the children in that neighborhood and started a
union Sunday school in her home. Sunday, January I2th, 1890, a call having been
made by G. B. Studd and J. O. Mathewson for a Sunday school in South Santa
Monica, about forty-two persons gathered at the house of Mr. Mathewson, at the
corner of Bay and South Sixth streets. A school was organised and Mr. Andrew
Mills was chosen as superintendent, a position which he filled for six years.
For a time the school was held in the old school house and then in the house of
Captain Clark, Fourth and Strand. This rough cottage was adapted for Sunday
services as far as possible and neighboring pastors were frequently invited to
preach here.

    From February 1st, 1890, until November 3rd, 1892, Rev. A. P. Brown, pastor
of the Baptist church at Palms, preached on alternate Sunday afternoons at Ocean
Park. Three pupils were baptized from the Ocean Park school into the membership
of the Palms church. In 1891, Rev. W. W. Tinker became district secretary of the
American Baptist Home Missionary society. He proposed to erect a chapel in
commemoration of J. O. Mathewson, who had passed away the previous year.
September 5th, 1892, this was dedicated as the "Baptist Mission," a branch of
the Palms church. It cost $700, was furnished with 100 chairs, a pulpit and a
baby organ. Dr. Daniel Read, of Los Angeles, preached the dedicatory sermon.
During 1893-4 Rev. H. S. Baker, pastor of Palms church, preached regularly in
the chapel, assisted by Mr. Charles Baird as singer.

    In 1895, Rev. Mr. Thomason, pastor at Palms, preached regularly. In June the
church was encouraged by a visit from Rev. E. G. Wheeler and the chapel car
"Emanuel." The same month the annual convention of Southern California Baptists
was held in the Y. M. C. A. Pavilion at Ocean Park. In 1896 the church at Palms
ceased to exist and the interest fell off very materially at Ocean Park. July
26th, Rev. Mr. French, who had located in Ocean Park for his health, began to
hold services in the chapel and organized a new Sunday school. He also organized
a Baptist church of sixteen members. In September, 1896, Rev. T. F. Tooker took
charge of the little church and conducted the services and Sunday school for
some time. In 1898, Rev. Chas. Pedley, a graduate of Charles Spurgeon's college,
in London, located in Santa Monica, and acted as pastor of the church until the
spring of 1899. After his departure the work languished and the Sunday school
died out. The Methodists were granted the use of the building for their services
until 1900 when they secured their own church.

    In January, 1902, Prof. C. S. Taylor, vice-principal of the Santa Monica
High School, and Mr. F. C. Marvin came to Santa Monica to reside. They
interested themselves in looking up the Baptists of the community and in.
December, 1902, Rev. George Taylor, of Sawtelle, preached in the Baptist chapel,
and again organized a Santa Monica Baptist church, fourteen members. This church
was brought into connection with the Southern California Baptist Convention and
the American Baptist Home Mission society. It was served by various preachers
until February I5th, 1903, when Rev. L. A. Gould was called as pastor and took
up his residence here. September 7th, 1903, the church was admitted into full
membership with the Baptist Convention and recognition services were held, many
guests being present and the charge being delivered by Rev. Robert Burdette.
Rev. Gould remained as pastor until he was succeeded by Rev. M. M. Mason.

PENTECOSTAL CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE.

    This church, whose articles of faith are identical with those of the
Weselyan Methodist society, was organized in 1906 as a result of neighborhood
meetings held in the home of J. E. Pearsall, corner of Michigan avenue and
Twentieth street. The new church was incorporated the same year with Rev. Thos.
Fisher, pastor of the church, Chas. Allsman and J. E. Pearsall, as trustees.
Messrs. Towner and Irwin donated a lot on the corner of Michgan avenue and
Nineteenth street and a neat building, costing about $2,000, was erected. The
membership is now twenty-six and the Sunday school has sixty members.

WOMEN'S CHRISTIAN TEMPERANCE UNION.

    In the summer of 1885 a few earnest women, among whom was Mrs. Jane Austin,
Miss Niles, Miss E. A. Dow, Mrs. I. D. Richmond, and others, organized a W. C.
T. U. in Santa Monica. These women felt that there was much need of their labors
here as at that time there were a dozen saloons in the place. They took over the
reading room which had been previously started in the hope of interesting the
boys and the young people, and at once set about an earnest effort to support
the reading room and library and to improve the moral tone of their beautiful
town. They rented the lower room in the two-story frame building now owned by
them on Third street. By means of soliciting subscriptions, giving suppers and
dinners, socials and teas, and in many other ways which demanded the strength
and time of the faithful workers, they managed to keep the reading room open and
to add many books to those already collected. The early efforts that were made
to keep the library and reading room up have been told in the history of the
Santa Monica Public Library, of which this library was the foundation.

    In 1887 the ladies determined to purchase the building which they were
occupying and the owner, Mr. John Steere, made them a very reasonable rate, for
boom times, putting the price at $2,500 and giving them their own time to pay
in, provided the interest was kept up. The women, Mrs. Austin, then president,
Mrs. D. B. Hubbell, vice-president and in charge of the library, and Mrs.
Richmond, secretary, worked very hard to maintain the undertaking; but when dull
times came in 1889, they found the burden too much and Mr. Steere took back the
building and returned the money, $350, which they had paid on it. They continued
to occupy the same room as their reading room, however, and on Mr. Steere's
death, in 1892, he willed this building to the W. C. T. U. of Santa Monica, on
condition that they maintain a perpetual free reading room.

    This the organization has done. The large upper room is pleasantly fitted up
and a supply of reading matter and books are kept on hand for circulation and
for use in the room. A large amount of. literature has been distributed by this
society, also, to ships, camps of laboring men, canyons and school districts.

    For eight years Mrs. Elizabeth Hughes, of Sawtelle, was president of the
organization and much efficient work was done under her direction. Mrs. T.
Hughes Lodge has acted as president or vice-president of the union and has the
supervision of the reading room. The present officers are Mrs. Mattie Barrett,
president; Mrs. T. Hughes Lodge, vice-president; Mrs. Ada Schutte, secretary:
Mrs. Clara Odell, corresponding secretary; Miss Sarah Much, treasurer.

WOMAN'S CLUB OF SANTA MONICA.

    In September, 1904, a lecture class in history was organized by Miss
Elizabeth McLaughlin, with Miss M. E. Abbott as lecturer. The first class was
held at the home of Miss McLaughlin, after which the sessions were held in a
cottage, on Nevada avenue until the class outgrew this and was removed to
Columbia Hall. On December 8th, 1904, the members of this class formed an
organization, with Mrs. D. G. Stephens as president and Miss McLaughlin as
secretary and treasurer. This was in reality the organization of the Woman's
Club, although the name "club" was not taken at this time. During the spring
Miss Abbott resigned her place as lecturer and other ladies were secured, the
subjects not being confined to history.

    December 11th, 1905, the first annual meeting of the organization was held
at which time the by-laws were amended, a regular corps of officers elected and
the name changed to Woman's Club. Mrs. Daniel G. Stephens, who is only second to
Madame Severance, as a club mother in Southern California, was made honorary
president: Mrs. A. M. Jamison was elected president; Mrs. J. S. Hunt and Mrs. E.
H. Hutton, vice-presidents; Miss Elizabeth McLaughlin, secretary and Mrs.
Jessica Clark, treasurer. In recognition of Miss McLaughlin's service to the
club as secretary and organizer, she was made a life associate member, with all
the privileges of active membership. The first meetings of this year were held
in Columbia Hall, Mrs. M. R. King generously paying the rent. Lectures and
musical programs were given and the club increased in interest and membership.
During this year a civic committee was appointed of which Mrs. J. P. Jones was
the first chairman, succeeded by Mrs. Arthur Noble. This committee did most
effective service, having secured the preservation of the trees and the
improvement of Nevada avenue, presented a petition to the school board, pointing
out the necessity of a new school building to replace the Sixth street school
house, which was a patchwork made up of additions to the original structure
erected in 1876. The town had just voted the sum of $56,000 for building three
new school houses, and it was thought impossible to carry another bond election
for school purposes at this time. But the ladies circulated a petition and
received such encouragement that the election was held and the money for the
beautiful Jefferson building voted.

The Woman's Club has also aided in preventing the issuance of new liquor
licenses. During 1907 they voted a scholarship fund to be used in keeping a
bright girl who otherwise must have given up school, in the high school of Santa
Monica. Surely a more practical and beautiful service could not be found. As
will be seen this club has done most effective work in benefiting the community,
as well as furnishing its members with much intellectual and social pleasure and
development.

    The third annual meeting of the club was held December nth, 1906, in the
Royal Arcanum Hall, the use of which was donated by Mr. Robert F. Jones. At this
meeting the former officers were re-elected and a new constitution and by-laws
were adopted. During the year of 1906-7 the club entertained the Woman's
Parliament of Southern California, of which their Honorary President, Mrs.
Stephens, was the founder. Many interesting programs and social affairs were
offered the members and their friends.

    At the annual meeting of 1907, Mrs. A. M. Jamison, who had served most
efficiently as president for two years, declined a re-election and Miss Charlena
Welch was chosen as president.

SANTA MONICA LODGE No. 906, B. P. O. E.

    On April 12th, 1907, Santa Monica Lodge of Elks was organized as Santa.
Monica Lodge No. 906, B. P. O. E., the Los Angeles Lodge to the number of 300
coming down to initiate the new lodge. After the ceremonies of initiation 400
Elks sat down to a banquet in the old Pavilion, which was one of the most
memorable affairs of the many that took place in the old building. The first
officers of the lodge were: First Exalted Ruler, Brother W. T. Gillis; Esteemed
Leading Knight, Robert F. Jones; Esteemed Loyal Knight, T. H. Dudley; Esteemed
Lecturing Knight, G. F. Doty; treasurer, J. Euclid Miles; secretary. J. B.
Proctor; tyler, H. I. Pritchard; trustees, H. G. Englebrecht, C. M. Lindsey, E.
S. Tomblin.

    The first lodge rooms of the Elks were located over the Santa Monica bank.
Later they removed their rooms to the Columbia building where they are at
present located. Soon after the organization of the lodge it acquired the
property on the corner of Ocean and Arizona avenues, formerly the home of Mrs.
Doria Jones, of Los Angeles, one of the most commodious family residences in
Santa Monica. This was altered and refitted as a club house for the use of the
members of the Elks Lodge and is one of the pleasantest and cosiest club houses
in the country.

    At the Elks' reunion, held on the top of Mt. Wilson, May 27th, 28th and
29th, 1904, the newly formed Santa Monica lodge—a "Baby Lodge," as it was
known—won a very handsome grandfather's clock for the best average attendance
reported. On June 5th, 1905, this lodge went to San Pedro in a body to assist in
the initiation of San Pedro Lodge, No. 966, and thus is ceased to be the "Baby
Lodge." On September 8th, 9th and 10th, 1905, the Santa Monica lodge assisted in
entertaining a reunion of the Elks of Southern California in Santa Monica
canyon. One of the features of this occasion was a genuine old-fashioned
barbecue. Each Christmas since its organization the lodge has prepared a
Christmas tree for the youngsters of the town, at which those who have little
promise of Christmas cheer are especially remembered.

    The Past Exalted Rulers of the lodge since its organization are: W. T.
Gillis, J. C. Hemingway, P. S. Lindsey, W. G. Miller, who is the present
occupant of the chair; J. B. Proctor remained secretary since the formation of
the lodge. The present membership is about 215, and the lodge is in a most
flourishing condition.

GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC.

    Fort Fisher Post, G. A. R., No. 137, Department of California and Nevada,
-was organized in 1885. J. J. Mohen, H. M. Russell, J. W. Keith, G. T. Hoi-ford,
J. L. Allen, R. P. Elliott, C. B. Fuller, Guy C. Manville, F. A. Westover,
George Young, W. R. Waldron and Henry Gardner were the charter members •of this
post. In June, 1887, Fort Fisher Relief Corps was installed, with Mrs. Josephine
Baxter, president; Mrs. E. Gaddy and Mrs. Sadie Bennett, vice-presidents; Miss
Mary Elliott, secretary; Mrs. Alice Mosse, treasurer, and Mrs. Rebecca
Gulberson, chaplain.

    In February, 1887, John A. Logan Post was organized in Santa Monica, with H.
M. Russell as president, J. Mohen secretary, and with twelve members. This was
later merged with John A. Martin Post, Soldiers' Home.

    Fort Fisher Post flourished until about 1901, when the enthusiasm died -out
and the organization was disbanded. The old soldiers and the Relief Corps had
always taken a prominent part on public occasions and especially on Memorial
day, and were much missed from the civic organizations.

    On May 20th, 1907, a number of old soldiers met and resolved to form a new
post, to be known as the Stephen Jackson Post, No. 191. The post commander of
this organization is Robert Dollard; senior vice-commander, A. N. Archer; junior
vice-commander, David Johnson; chaplain, T. B. Fisher; quartermaster, S. D.
Hayes; officer of the day, J. W. Bowlden; officer of the guard, J. N. Lewis;
adjutant, H. C. Towner. Charter members, George Young, J. L. Ferguson, Thomas
Gilroy, W. W. R. Mattox, A. G. Ford, S. A. Wheeler, C. L. Wells, James P.
Rutledge, L. M. Pence, M. D. Gage, C. W. Loving, D. W. Collis, J. M. McGlinch,
Loyal L. Case, I. J. Lucas, Ed. Forbes, J. Teach, J. O. Hodgson, Peter Mardy
(deceased), J. A. Greenlaw, G. W. Heimer, R. P. Elliott, A. Lockridge, E. R.
Kennedy, W. W. Woodruff, A. Felix Gandy, George Pulham, James Stone.

    Ladies' Grand Army Circle was organized as Fremont Circle, No. 37,
Department of California and Nevada, 1904. Mrs. Mamie Young, president; Mrs. S.
A. Wheeler, vice-president; Mrs. Zoe Phyfer, treasurer.


Additional Comments:
Extracted from:

Ingersoll's century history, Santa Monica Bay cities: prefaced with a brief
history of the state of California, a condensed history of Los Angeles County,
1542 to 1908: supplemented with an encyclopedia of local biography and
embellished with views of historic landmarks and portraits of representative
people.

Los Angeles: Luther A. Ingersoll (1908)


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