Nobles County MN Archives History - Books .....Chapter XVI Worthington's Churches And Lodges 1908 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/mn/mnfiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Joy Fisher sdgenweb@yahoo.com October 17, 2006, 5:03 pm Book Title: An Illustrated History Of Nobles County CHAPTER XVI. WORTHINGTON'S CHURCHES AND LODGES. With more propriety can the title "City of Churches" be given to Worthington than to Brooklyn. There are in Worthington ten church organizations- one for each 230 inhabitants. Of these all except one have church edifices, which range in value from $20,000 down. The societies maintaining organizations in the village are Congregational, Methodist, Presbyterian, Swedish Lutheran, Episcopal, Catholic, Evangelical Association, Baptist, Swedish Mission and Christian. Only the last named is without a church building. The first three named are the oldest, all having come into existence during the month of May, 1873. But for over a year before any of these were organized an organization, styled the "Colony Christian Union," a union of all the christian denominations represented in the village, worshipped regularly. COLONY CHRISTIAN UNION. [1] When the pioneers of the National colony began to arrive in Worthington in the spring of 1872 one of their first considerations was a place of worship, and steps were at once taken to bring about the organization of a church society. Prof. R. F. Humiston, one of the founders of the colony, was a member of the "Union Church" on Cleveland Heights (Cleveland, Ohio), and was heartily in favor of a union church in Worthington. His plan was to have a church organization which should be participated in by every evangelical christian in the community, regardless of previous denominational affiliation. A large majority of those on the ground expressed themselves as favoring such a movement, and of those who were doubtful of its expediency no one was found who did not advise the proposed plan for the first year, at least. For some weeks before a formal organization was made services were held at different places in the little village. The first service was held in a partly finished store building on Fourth avenue, which was being erected by Wm. B. Akins. On Saturday evening the shavings were swept up, the work bench was brushed off, and planks were laid on boxes and nail kegs to serve the purpose of seats. Here on Sunday morning the first religious service was held in Worthington. Before the next Sabbath the building was occupied by Mr. Akins' hardware store, and the worshippers were compelled to seek accommodations elsewhere. One or two Sabbaths, services were held in a carpenter shop on the lot just to the east of the present location of the Citizens National Bank, and one Sabbath in the store building on Ninth street, now occupied by S. V. Wyckoff. In the meantime one Samuel Hiley had purchased the two corner lots opposite the Worthington hotel, and on one of them proceeded to erect a frame store building (where Sterling Bros' clothing store now stands.) Notwithstanding the well understood principles and wishes of the colony founders in regard to the sale of intoxicating liquors, a man had leased, in advance of its erection, the Hiley building and had already made arrangements to open a saloon therein. Now, it so happened that there came a time when, this was the only room open to the worshippers, and there a service was held before the building was completed. The next Sabbath the room was completed and" the bar in position, but as no liquor had yet arrived, the church people again assembled therein. One week later the saloon was in operation and the church had to seek other quarters. Previous to the opening of the saloon, however, a church society had been organized. The meeting was held in the saloon building on the twelfth day of May, 1872, at five o'clock in the afternoon, for the purpose "of organizing a society for the furthering of the worship of God in the community." Prof. Humiston presided, and Dr. Geo. O. Moore was the secretary. The chairman suggested the formation of a "union society," with one pastor. Remarks were made by Rev. David Bear, A. P. Miller, R. B. Plotts, G. Anderson, I. P. Durfee, R. D. Barber and Geo. O. Moore in favor of the idea. I. N. Sater cordially favored the plan for the present, but thought the time should be left indefinite. Rev. B. H. Crever, a Methodist preacher who was a resident of Worthington at the time, was chosen pastor. A committee, consisting of A. P. Miller, I. N. Sater, Dr. R. D. Barber, J. C. Clark and Dr. Geo. O. Moore, was appointed to report for adoption a plan of organization, fix the salary of the pastor, and attend to other necessary matters pertaining to the new church. The committee held two meetings in the office of Prof. Humiston, and at another meeting of the church held May 19 reported the following recommendations, in substance: That a society for religious purposes he organized under the name of the Colony Christian Church, to be officered as follows: A president, secretary, treasurer and an executive committee of five; that the pastor act as president, and that the other officers be elected annually; that any person believing in the dectrines set forth in the Apostles' Creed should be eligible to membership; that the society continue until May 1, 1873; that the regular services consist of one preaching service on Sabbath morning by the regular pastor, with Sunday school and Bible class in the afternoon, and that on Sabbath evening the free use of the house be tendered to any orthodox clergyman who may choose to preach to us; that Rev. B. H. Crever be our pastor; that a building be erected by voluntary effort, 30x50 feet in size, 12 foot story, at a cost not to exceed $1,200. The report was adopted, article by article, and the permanent organization was completed by the election of Geo. O. Moore secretary and I. N. Sater treasurer. An executive committee, composed of J. C. Clark, B. S. Langdon, I. P. Durfee, A. C. Robinson, H. D. Humiston, E. F. Humiston, I. N. Sater and Geo. O. Moore, was named. In the meantime Prof. Humiston and Dr. Miller, the colony promoters, mindful of the needs of a place for public assemblage, took council together, and their deliberations resulted in the erection of the structure known as Miller hall. The upper floor of this building was divided into one large hall, 48x55 feet, and two small halls in front on either side of the stairway. It was the intention that the large hall should be used for public worship and other public gatherings, the Union church having the preference. The hall was subsequently leased by the society for $250 per annum, and the first services were held there Nov. 17, 1872. It was the general understanding and wish that the organization be completed and that by vote the church place itself under the watch care of one of the denominational bodies, which event would place the church in position to receive aid in paying the pastor. Rev. Crever, notwithstanding repeated urging to complete the organization, for some reason neglected to do so. The first year ended as it had begun; all met together in one place for worship, but the organization was not perfected and there was no affiliation with any denomination. These conditions were unsatisfactory, and the discussion of the matter grew more earnest as the first anniversary of the church approached. Finally a meeting was held at the hall on April 22, 1873, to which were asked all who were interested in a union organization, to comprise all of the evangelical elements of the place. J. S. Shuck was chairman of the meeting. Dr. Geo. O. Moore has written concerning the deliberations of that meeting: After a lengthy discussion an adjournment was taken to allow the Presbyterians oportunity to consult as to their course. It had been agreed by the different state superintendents that we should not be interfered with by them, but should be allowed to consider and decide the question among ourselves, uninfluenced by outside help or interference. In conformance with this understanding, Mr. Richard Hall, the Congregational superintendent, studiously avoided this part of the field, but Mr. Lyon, Presbyterian, and Mr. Wright, Methodist, took active part in our deliberations, both by their personal presence and by written communications, and it was no doubt largely owing to their influence and advice that the union effort was unsuccessful. Two or three general meetings and frequent private conferences made it plain that nothing could be accomplished in the matter of permanent organization along the lines already followed. Then a meeting was called of "all those specially desiring union organization." The meeting was held April 26, 1873, and was presided over by Dr. E. D. Barber. Twenty-nine residents had signified their intention to take part in the deliberations of the proposed church organization. A committee was appointed, consisting of C. S. Newton, Presbyterian; I. P. Durfee, Christian; R. F. Humiston, Congregational; Mrs. M. P. Manley, Baptist; and J. Ames, Independent, to draft articles of faith for the association. This committee reported to an adjourned meeting on April 29 a platform, which was read article by article, and referred back to the committee for further action. On Sunday, May 24, 1873, the committee reported a confession of faith, and it was adopted, article by article, without a dissenting vote. The committee was continued, with instructions to report a covenant to be adopted at a future meeting. Arrangements were made to procure a room for a church and to secure a temporary supply of preaching. It was at this meeting of May 4 that, on motion of Prof. Humiston, the members decided to ask the Congregational denomination to take the new organization under its watch care. UNION CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. The idea of a union church, embracing all denominations, was abandoned, and the three denominations having the greatest strength, Congregational, Methodist and Presbyterian, each organized a church society. The Union Congregational church was the first of these to perfect an organization; in fact, its organization was simply a continuance of the temporary arrangement of those who desired a union of all denominations in one church. For some time correspondence had been carried on with Rev. Richard Hall, Congregational state superintendent, in regard to church affairs in Worthington. On Sunday, May 18, 1873, that officer was present} and the Union Congregational church of Worthington was formally organized [2] with the following charter members: Prof. R. F. Humiston, Harriet Humiston, Geo. O. Moore, Clara F. Moore, John C. Clark, Lydia H. Clark, Charles S. Newton, Sidney Harrington, Cornelia L. Harrington, John Blodgett; and on profession of faith R. D. Barber, Mattie Barber, J. Ames, A. P. Miller and Jacob Neil Dow. [3] The official title of the organization was "The Union Congregational Church and Society of Worthington." Roy's manuel furnished the new church with a constitution, which was formally adopted, with a code of by-laws, on June 24, at which time the first church officers were elected. The urgent need of a church building was recognized by all, and on Aug. 24 a meeting was held, when the first steps were taken looking toward the erection of a church edifice. A building committee, a finance committee and a comittee to correspond with the Congregational Missionary societies, with reference to aid in building and in paying the salary of a pastor, were appointed. These committees immediately set to work, plans were reported, and a lot was secured on the corner of Third avenue and Eleventh street. Bids were then asked on the construction of a building which it was estimated would cost about $3,300. Ground was broken early in September, 1873, and on Dec. 28, of the same year, the edifice was dedicated, Rev. Richard Hall, the state superintendent, officiating. The building was 33x45 feet and had a 16-foot ceiling. The auditorium had a seating capacity of 200, and there was also a basement, which proved an exceedingly valuable convenience for Sunday school, prayer meeting and social purposes. This pioneer church building of Worthington was entirely destroyed by fire on Jan. 15, 1905, entailing a loss of $4,000, with $1,200 insurance. A handsome and commodious new church was erected during 1906 by the congregation. The cost was about $7,000, and it was dedicated in February, 1907. During the summer of 1874 the first regular pastor was installed. Following is a list of the pastors who have served the church since its founding and the dates of their service: C. C. Foote, June 24, 1874, to Oct. 1, 1874. H. B. Tuttle, Dec. 1, 1874, to June 1, 1879. Chas. W. Hanna, June 1, 1879, to June 1, 1880. H. H. Hart, Aug. 8, 1880, to Aug. 1, 1883. M. S. Crosswell, Oct. 1, 1883, to Jan. 1, 1884. David Henderson, Jan. 20, 1884, to Jan. 20, 1888. F. L. Fisk, May 13, 1888, to July 25, 1891. Robert McCune, Aug. 3, 1891, to Aug. 1, 1897. C. W. Merrill, Oct. 3, 1897, to Oct. 13, 1898. J. P. Dickerman, May 1, 1899, to Nov. 1, 1900. C. H. Curtis, Feb. 1, 1901, to Jan. 1, 1904. C. H. McIntosh, May 1, 1904, to Sept. 24, 1905. John E. Evans, Jan. 1, 1906, to December, 1907. William Fletcher, Jan 1, 1908, to date. Following is a list of the Sunday school superintendents in chronological order, the dates of service being given of all but the earlier ones: Elihu Smith, J. Ames, R. F. Humiston, A. P. Miller, A. L. Runyon, R. D. Barber, M. P. Mann, 1882-3-4-5; J. W. Crigler, 1886-7-8; R. W. McCune, 1889; J. W. Crigler, 1890; M. A. Nichols, 1891; John R. Newton, 1892; Ray Humiston, 1893; M. E. Fish, 1894; Mrs. E. L. Porter, 1895; Geo. O. Moore, 1896; Mrs. H. J. Ludlow, 1897-8-9; Dr. G. R. Curran, 1900-1-2-3; Mrs. H. J. Ludlow, 1904; M. P. Mann, 1905-6; A. W. Fagerstrom, 1907. FIRST METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. When the union church idea was abandoned in the spring of 1873 the Methodists, under the leadership of Rev. B. H. Crever, who had been the pastor of the union church during the year of that body's existence, were among the first to take steps to bring about the organization of a denominational body. During the month of May those members of the union flock who were grounded in the faith of John Wesley banded themselves together and formed the first Methodist body in Nobles county. The first paper of record concerning the founding of the Methodist church of Worthington is the following certificate, which was filed in the office of the register of deeds of Nobles county on May 21,1873: Know all men that on the 19th day of May, eighteen hundred and seventh-three, I, B. H. Carver, pastor of the First Methodist Episcopal church of Worthington, county of Nobles and state of Minnesota, in the interim of the quarterly conference, and agreeable to the discipline and > usage of the Methodist Episcopal church in the United States of America, and of the statutes of Minnesota, have appointed the following named persons trustees of the said Methodist Episcopal church in the United States of America, namely: Henry Humiston, R. F. Humiston, Isaac N. Sater, C. Z. Sutton, G. Anderson, Otis Bigelow, W. S. Stockdale, Dr. A. P. Miller and Stephen Miller, in and for the said village of Worthington, they and their successors in office to hold in trust the property of said church in said village of Worthington under the corporate name and style of trustees of the First Methodist Episcopal church in Worthington, Minnesota. Witness my hand and seal the name and year above written. B. H. CREVER. [Seal.] Presiding Elder Wright met with the Worthington Methodists and completed the work of organization. There were about thirty charter members, among whom were the following: Mr. and Mrs. Otis Bigelow, Mr. and Mrs. I. N. Sater, Mr. and Mrs. Elias Spaulding, Mr. and Mrs. W. Chase, Mr. and Mrs. C. Z. Sutton, Erastus Church and Henry Humiston. Rev. B. H. Crever served as pastor two years. Miller hall was rented during the first year's life of the church. Then, in 1874, the property was purchased, the building dedicated, and services were held there regularly until the building was destroyed by fire in 1878. The loss of their place of worship was an almost insurmountable blow. The Presbyterians came to their aid and tendered the use of their church building. The offer was accepted, and the Methodists worshipped there a few months-until January 1, 1879. From that time until July 1880, the Nobles county court house was utilized as a house of worship. Bennett hall (now the Masonic building) was leased at that time, and thereafter, until a home of their own was completed in the fall of 1882, the Methodists occupied that building. The congregation was poor, and the struggles during the early days to continue the church organization were severe. [4] The first Methodist church building, located at the corner of Fourth avenue, and Ninth street, was begun in the fall of 1881, under the pastorate of Rev. W. T. Hobart, a missionary to China. The labor was largely donated, and the pastor personally took a hand in the work, he doing the lathing. The work of building was slowly and steadily kept up until the fall of 1882. Under the pastorate of Rev. B. F. Kephart the church was dedicated. The cost of the building was about $2,000; of that amount $1,600 had been paid or pledged and the remaining $400 was raised on the day of dedication. The building was not entirely finished until 1885, when Rev. Wm. Copp, who was then in charge, pushed it to completion. While the early day struggles of the church were severe, better times were ahead, and its recent history is one of prosperity. The membersship grew and its wealth increased. The old church building, which had seemed so fine in the early days, was no longer large enough. It was during the pastorate of Rev. Carl A. Anderson that the erection of a new church building was first considered. When Rev. Thos. Hambly was appointed to the charge in 1901 interest in the proposed building was revived. Generous subscriptions were received during the winter and spring, and in the summer of 1902, work was begun on the foundation of the new structure. The corner of Eleventh street and Fourth avenue was selected as the site, and the residence of Otis Biglow, which occupied the site, was removed. Work progressed rapidly, and on May 3, 1903, the beautiful modern structure was dedicated. It valuation is placed at $20,000, and it is one of the best church buildings in Minnesota. The auditorium arrangement, with the spacious gallery, makes it most convenient and desirable in providing for large assemblages. Concerning the more recent history of the church, a member has prepared the following: In the middle of his third year as pastor Rev. Thos. Hambly was, at his own request, transferred to the North Ohio conference by Bishop Fowler, who at the same time appointed Rev. G. A. Cahoon to the pastorate of the Worthington church (February, 1904). But one Sunday intervened between the closing of Mr. Hambly's pastorate and the assuming of the pastoral relations by Mr. Cahoon, who came here after a pastorate of nearly six years at Goodhue, Minn., and who at the time of the preparation of this work is on his fifth year as pastor of the Worthington church. During this latter pastorate the church has been strengthened both numerically and spiritually. The pastor was one of the leaders in arranging for and carrying through the famous tabernacle meetings, conducted by Evangelist Wm. A. Sunday, and which continued for nearly five weeks, beginning Dec. 7, 1906. The Methodist church, in common with several other churches, was greatly strengthened by this series of meetings. The membership was stirred to greater activity, while about one hundred fifty persons united with the church, either on probation or by letter, as a result of the meeting. The larger number of the probationers later came into full membership, and among them are many of the substantial and active members of the church. The following description of the services held in the church Sunday morning, Jan. 13, 1907, and which apeared in the Worthington Advance of Jan. 17, 1907, is a matter of historic value, and will be of interest to many: "The Methodist church was filled with an interested and happy company of people last Sunday morning. The large chorus choir led the singing of some of the old hymns and the audience took hold with enthusiasm. A male quartette sang a selection, and Dr. F. B. Cowgill preached an able sermon. The pastor Rev. G. A. Cahoon, spoke briefly concerning some characteristics of Methodism and the conditions of membership, and extended an invitation to those who desired to do so to come forward and unite with the church. "Tellers were stationed at the end of the side aisle, down which the company came, and after the name of each had been recorded they were received by the pastor and presiding elder. A committee representing the various activities of the church were at the altar to welcome the new members, who remained standing. Afterwards all those who had signed cards at the tabernacle meetings, and who desired publicly to renew their vows, were invited to stand, and many arose. The pastor extended a cordial welcome on behalf of the church, and Dr. Cowgill, the presiding elder, expressed his gratification at the results of the service and added words of wise counsel. The tellers were asked to report their lists, and it was found that ninety-six persons had identified themselves with the church it this one service. It was certainly a great day for the Methodist church in Worthington." Following is the list of pastors, with the dates of their service, who have filled the pulpit of the Methodist church of Worthington: B. H. Crever, 1873-1875. J. W. Lewis, 1875. [5] J. C. Ogle, 1875-1878. C. H. Dixon, 1878-1879. Charles Sheldon, 1879-1880. T. H. Kinsman, 1880-1881. W. T. Hobart, 1881-1882, Geo. Merritt, 1882. [6] B. F. Kephart, 1882-1884. Wm. Copp, 1884-1885. E. R. Lathrop, 1885-1888. H. J. Harrington, 1888-1890. Wm. Brown, 1890-1892. W. J. Robinson, 1892-1895. W. A. Putnam, 1895-1896. J. M. Bull, 1896-1899. C. A. Anderson, 1899-1901. Thos. Hambly, 1901-1904. G. A. Cahoon, 1904 to date. The church has never been so prosperous as at the present time, and all its members feel that the-church has entered upon a career of marked prosperity and splendicj. usefulness. E. W. Goff is chairman of the board of trustees, A. T. Latta is secretary, Wm. Schroeder is recording steward and A. J. Goff is church treasurer. Several auxiliary societies are maintained. WESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. So early as February 3, 1873, while the religious community was • undecided as to the course to pursue in regard to churches, thirty residents petitioned the Presbytery for authority to organize a Presbyterian church at Worthington. The Mankato Presbytery took favorable action on the petition early in May, and on the 25th of that month-just a few days after the birth of the Congregational and Methodist churches-the Westminster Presbyterian church of Worthington was duly organized. The organization was perfected by a committee appointed by the Mankato church authorities. The committee consisted of Rev. Jacob B. Little, Rev. Edward Savage, Rev. D. C. Lyon and Rev. E. J. Hamilton. The following were admitted as members at the time of organization: Allen Chaney, Miss Julia Chaney, Andrew Buchan, Mrs. Delia A. Buchan, J. S. Shuck, Mrs. Anna Shuck, Cornelius Stout, Joseph Tarbert, Mrs. Nancy Tarbert, Dr. Josephus Craft, Mrs. Clara Craft, M. H. Stevens, Mrs. Lydia A. Stevens, Mrs. Charlotte E. Goodnow, Richard Newman, Mrs. Sarah Newman, Daniel Rohrer, Mrs. Henrietta A. Lyon, Mrs. Otti N. McLaurin. [7] Allen Chaney, Andrew Buchan and J. S. Shuck were elected ruling elders, [8] and Mr. Chaney was chosen clerk of the session. A board trustees was chosen as the following certificate shows: [9] This is to certify that the members of the congregation of the Westminster Presbyterian church of Worthington did meet on the 21st day of June, A. D. 1873, at the office of J. S. Shuck, in said town of Worthington, for the purpose of electing a board of trustees for said church pursuant to notice which had previously been given for at least two successive Sabbaths at the place where said congregation steadily met for the public worship where said congregation had assembled. J. S. Shuck and M. H. Stevens, members of said congregation, were nominated and elected to preside at said meeting, to receive the votes and determine the qualifications of voters. The following named persons were then duly elected as a board of trustees: Daniel Rohrer, H. D. Bookstaver, M. H. Stevens, J. Craft and J. A. Town, they and their successors in office to be forever known by the name of the board of trustees of the Westminster Presbyterian church of Worthington. Given under our hands and seals this 21st day of June, A. D. 1873. Delivered in the presence of E. T. Dillabaugh. J. S. SHUCK [Seal.] M. H. STEVENS. [Seal.] The congregation worshipped in the southwest room of the lower floor of Miller hall for over a year and a half. In the summer of 1874 preparations were made for the erection of a church edifice, and early in September work on the building was begun, the plans being furnished by L. W. Chase. The building cost about $2,000, was occupied for the first time Jan. 2, 1875, and served as the home of the church until March, 1900. Although completed and occupied early in 1875, it was not dedicated until December 31, 1876, at which time all indebtedness had been paid. Following is a list of the pastors who have filled the Presbyterian pulpit since the organization of the church with the date of their service: W. P. Jackson, July, 1873. C. Otis Fletcher, Jan., 1874, to May 6, 1877. Hiram F. White, July 8, 1877, to 1878. D. K. Millard, Aug., 1878, to 1880. J. C. Robinson, 1880 to June 1, 1885. William H. Hartzell, Sept. 1, 1885, to 1889. Robert McCune, 1889 to 1890. H. P. Cory, Feb., 1892, to July, 1893. Wilson Anil, May, 1894, to 1896. F. C. Bailey, July, 1896, to 1898. Wilson Aull, Aug., 1898, to June 1, 1904. E. W. Lanham, Sept. 1, 1904, to Oct. 1, 1907. Grant B. Wilder, Dec. 1, 1907, to date. It was during the pastorate of Rev. Wilson Aull that the handsome church edifice now in use was erected. It was occupied for the first time March 18, 1900, and was dedicated March 25. The cost of the building was $16,537. A pipe organ was installed at a cost of $1,118, and other improvements have brought the total value up to about $20,000. It is one of the finest church buildings in southwestern Minnesota. The present membership of the Presbyterian church is over 300. The following have served as superintendents of the Sunday school from the date of its organization to the present time: Dr. J. Craft, J. C. Robinson, Geo. D. Dayton, E. F. Buchan, H. M. Palm, W. W. Loveless, Geo. D. Palm, William Chaney, Dr. Henry Wiedow. SWEDISH EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH. Among the early day settlers of Nobles county were quite a number of Scandinavians, who settled mostly in Indian Lake and Bigelow townships. Nearly all were members of the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran church, and it was but natural that the members, gathered together in the new country, as Nobles county then was, should desire to band themselves for the purpose of worship. So early as 1872 an informal organization was effected, and for several years services were held, more or less frequently, at different points in Worthington and in Bigelow township. There was no regular pastor, but the congregation met in regular worship, and occasionally a minister of their denomination would be present with them to assist. Thus matters continued until the spring of 1876. On the fourth day of May, of that year, the church was formally organized by the following charter' members: C. J. Paulson, Peter Thompson, Oliver Thompson, C. W. Beck, Chas. Larson, C. A. Sundberg, Nels Johnson, Sander Nelson, Casper Nelson, Swen Johnson, August Falk, C. A. Tellander, Nels Erickson, Erick Mahlberg, Lars Elofson, Peter Wickstrom, Peter Larson, Lars Erickson, Peter Nystrom, Sr., Peter Nystrom, Jr., Frank Sundberg and Nels Ellingson. On the date of this organization it was decided to incorporate, but this was not done until eighteen years later. [10] The church was without a pastor for several years after its organization and also without a church building. Meetings were regularly held, however, the pulpit being supplied part of the time by students and other ministers under the general church body. Various places in the village served the purpose of a church building. There was great activity among the members in 1883, and during that summer a church edifice was erected, the first services being held therein in June. The work on the building was all done by the members, or donated. The outlay was for materials alone, which cost about $1,200. The pastor, Rev. A. H. Randall, was a carpenter, and he did a large share of the work. Before the church was built, however, the congregation had been able to support a regular pastor, and in 1880 Rev. J. H. Randall was installed. The pastors who have supplied the pulpit have been: J. H. Randall, 1880-1882; A. H. Randall, 1882-1884; S. C. Franzen, 1884-1890; Svante Anderson, 1890-1895; E. M. Erickson, 1895-1905; C. O. Swan, 1906 to date. On Nov. 28, 1889, a parsonage was purchased, which served as a home for the pastor until 1907. It was then sold, and during the same year a new one was erected at a cost of $4,000. On January 1, 1907, the membership of the church was 212. ST. JOHN'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH. This church was organized in the fall of 1881, and came into existence largely through the efforts of Rev. D. Gunn. The church building, still used as the place of worship by the congregation, was erected that fall, and was opened for worship early in 1882. There is a pleasant little piece of history connected with the organization of the church. For two years years [sic] prior to its establishment a party of southerners spent their summers at Worthington. Among these were Mr. and Mrs. John Forsee and their mother and Miss Minturn, members of the Episcopal church at St. Joseph, Mo. These friends took the first steps toward the organization of a church of their denomination in Worthington. They raised $25.50, which they placed in the hands of Rev. Gunn. There were only a few Episcopalians in the village, and there was little sympathy with the efforts to start another church. Mr. Gunn, who took the most active part in the plans to perfect an organization, was at one time so discouraged that, after consulting with the bishop, he withdrew his regular appointments and was about to retire. Then interest was revived. Mr. Gunn stated that he would erect the church if the members of the society, which had then been organized, would build the foundation. W. A. Peterson took him at his word, and after a determined effort, did raise the amount necessary, assisted by Miss M. Madison and Miss Maggie Chadwick as a committee of collection. The lumber for the building was purchased with three checks, one of $100, Edward Ferguson and sister, New York; one of $100, Chas H. Contoit, of New York; and one of $14, Geo. W. Cass, ex-president of the Northern Pacific Railway company. The hardware, etc. was bought with the check of Henry B. Renwick, New York. CATHOLIC CHURCH OF ST. MARY A meeting of Catholics was held in Worthington in August, 1885, when it was decided to organize a society and erect a church edifice. The building was completed in the summer of 1886 at a cost of about $1,500. The first service was held August 1, and was conducted by Rev. Father Ogulin, of Heron Lake. The church was incorporated March 31, 1902, by Bishop Joseph B. Cotter and Vicar General James Coyne, of the Winona diocese, Father Joseph Sand, and Andrew Collins and Michael Reiter. EVANGELICAL ASSOCIATION'S CHURCH. The Evangelical Association is an organization which was founded by Germans in the year 1800. Its principal characteristic is its missionary activity. The Worthington church dates its existence from the year 1889. The year before that Rev. L. S. Stapf, who ministered to a congregation of Germans south of Luverne, came to Worthington in search of new preaching appointments. His activities resulted in the organization of a local society, which was organized in 1899 with the following charter members: H. Apel, Heinrich Apel, Sr., Gertrude Apel, Margreta Apel, Louis Apel, Henry Apel, Jr., William Apel, Katherina Apel, Philip Anton, Lizzie Anton, J. H. Shuck, Anna Shuck, J. Dohlheim, Louise Dohlheim, Emilia Apel, Albert Dohlheim Fred Dohlheim, Ida Dohlheim, W. F. Moss, Mary Moss, George Hacker, Theda Hacker, Maggie Hacker, Albert Wild, Anna M. Wild, Geo. Doeden, Gratia Doeden, Andrew Doeden, Tena Doeden, George Doeden, Jr., Fred Doeden, Maggie Doeden, C. Hilke, Blondena Snyder, Mary Weis, John Apel, Frederick Kasdorf, Johanna Kasdorf, Louise Kasdorf. The church was incorporated June 10, 1891, under the name of Emanuel Society Church of the Evangelical Association of North America, The trustees at the time were Philip Anton, W. F. Moss, and Heinrich Apel. Immediately thereafter construction was commenced on the church building at the corner .of Fourth avenue and Fourteenth street. The church was finished that fall, making the seventh church building then in the village. The cost was $1,650. It was dedicated Dec. 6, 1891. Prior to the building of the church services were held in the hall over the Farmers' Store, on Main street. In 1902 a commodious manse was erected beside the church at a. cost of $1,827.88. Since its organization the following pastors have filled the pulpit of the Worthington church: L. S. Stapf, 1899; S. B. Goetz, 1889-1892; F. H. Draeger, 1892-1895; C. W. Wolthausen, 1895-1899; F. C. Schmidt, 1899-1902; J. H. Muelhausen, 1902-1906; G. G. Schmidt, 1906 to date. The present membership of the Evangelical Association's church of Worthington is 103. The German language is being supplanted by the English, and over half the services are now conducted in the language of the land. From Worthington the society reached, out and did effective work in Wilmont, Fulda, Wilder and Ewington township. In the last named place, known as Spaffords, the Methodist church was purchased and a mission established, which is being supplied from the Worthington church still. The departments of the church are Sunday school, young people's alliance, missionary society and ladies' aid society. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. About the first of January, 1893, Rev. A. D. Trumbull, of Nebraska, came to Worthington. There he found a number of Baptists who requested him to preach and try to organize a Baptist church in Worthington. He agreed, and an appointment was made for January 15 in the old Grand Army hall. After the service the members of the Baptist faith were requested to remain for consultation, which resulted in organizing a conference, preparatory to the organization of a. Baptist church. Twenty-one persons signified their desire to become members of the new church. The formal organization was made Feb. 26, 1893, under the direction of Rev. A. D. Trumbull, with the following charter members: R. R. Smith, Julia A. Smith, L. M. Brooks, Sarah A. Brooks, William E. Stoutemyer, Emmogene Stoutemyer, Andrew C. Hedberg, Mary Hedberg, John R. Moberly, Mary J. Moberly, Gust Swanberg, Hannah Swanberg, Belle Chaffer, Eric P. Johnson, R. H. Barnard, Milton S. Smith, John Staubus, Mrs. John Staubus, R. W. Moberly, Annie Moberly, Mrs. Morrison. [11] The deacons elected were R. R. Smith, A. C. Hedberg and W. E. Stoutemyer. A. C. Hedberg was chosen treasurer and M. S. Smith clerk. A council of recognition met at Worthington June 30, 1893, by invitation of the twenty-one members of the new organization, who asked that they be recognized as a regular Baptist church. The churches named below were represented bv the following: Luverne, Rev. C. W. Lisk and C. C. Drew; Pipestone, Rev. C. T. Hallowell: Windom, Rev. J. M. Thurston and Rev. W. S. Black; St. James, Rev. E. M. Jones and J. C. Rutherford: Mankato, Rev. I. Bergstrom and W. F. Jenson; superintendent of missions, Rev. T. R. Peters, D. D. There were added to the council Rev. J. Hollstrom and Hans Nystrom, of the Worthington Swedish Lutheran church; Rev. J. Schultz, of Sibley; and Rev. C. W. Pratt, of Sheldon. Favorable action was taken by the council, and the First Baptist church of Worthington was recognized by the general body. The church was incorporated July 27, 1895, the trustees at the time being Gust Swanberg, J. H. Maxwell and W. E. Stoutemyer. Early in 1899 steps were taken to build a church edifice, services having been held for several years in the old Grand Army hall. A handsome and comfortable little church was erected that summer at the corner of Fourth avenue and Fourteenth street, the total cost of which was $2,925.53. It was dedicated Nov. 12, 1899. The following pastors have filled the pulpit since the date of organization: W. C. Pratt, 1894; W. J. McCullom, Feb., 1895, to June, 1896; J. W. Forsythe, Nov., 1896, to Dec, 1896; A. V. Dahl, April, 1897, to July, 1898; C. F. Bronson, Jan., 1899, to Oct., 1901; C. K. Bidwell, 1902 to Sept., 1904; C. F. Bronson, Nov., 1904, to Dec., 1905; I. H. Darnell, July, 1906, to date. SWEDISH MISSION CHURCH. The Swedish Mission church was organized March 12, 1895, with the following charter members: N. J. Sandin, Anna Sandin, Nels Flink, Katterine Flink, C. F. Sahlbom, Martha Caroline Sahlbom, John Wester, Anna Wester and Ole J. Englund. A church building was erected at the corner of Ninth street and Sixth avenue in 1899. It was dedicated July 9, and the total cost was $2,000. The following pastors have served the charge: O. B. Stendin, six months in1895; G. F. Palmer, 1896-1897; Carl Olson, two months in 1898; Rev. Sandin, six months in 1899; Aug. Berggren, six months in 1900; J. E. Ekstrom, 1901-1903; O. K. Moberg, 1904-1906; C. M. Johnson, Feb. 1, 1907, to date. A parsonage was built in 1901 at a cost of $1,500. The present membership is 58. CHRISTIAN CHURCH. The Christian church of Worthington was organized in the summer of 1900 by Evangelist G. F. Devol, with nineteen charter members. Services are held regularly in A. O. U. W. hall. G. M. Walker has been pastor of the church since its organization. The present membership is 58. THE LODGES. Worthington is fairly well represented in secret and fraternal societies. There are organizations of the Grand Army of the Republic, Women's Relief Corps, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, Royal Arch Masons, Eastern Star, Ancient Order of United Workmen, Degree of Honor, Knights of Pythias, Modern Woodmen of America, Royal Neighbors, Independent Order of Odd Fellows', Knights of the Maccabees of the World and Brotherhood of American Yeomen. All of these have lodges and are in nourishing condition. Many other secret organizations have had existence at one time or another, but in giving the lodge history of Worthington I shall confine myself to those now having organizations. STODDARD POST NO. 34, G. A. R. It was only a few years after the close of the civil war when Nobles county was settled, and a large percentage of the early settlers were soldiers of that great struggle who had come west to build themselves homes in the new country. Under the provisions of the homestead laws at the time the National colony was bringing the settlers here, ex-soldiers were permitted to secure homesteads of 160 acres within the limits of the railroad grant, while others were permitted to take only 80 acres. This vantage resulted in bringing many veterans of the war to Worthington and surrounding country, and it was but natural that the first lodge established, in Worthington should be one of the Grand Army of the Republic. On the evening of June 29, 1872, about thirty-five or forty ex-soldiers of the Union army met at a building which was to become a carpenter shop, located where the Congregational church now stands, for the purpose of organizing a post of the G. A. R. Captain Henry A. Castle, of St. Paul, commander of the department of Minnesota, was present and fully explained the objects of the organization. He then mustered in those assembled, and Stoddard Post No. 34 came into existence. It was named in honor of a man by the name of Stoddard, who had died in Worthington the previous winter, the first ex-soldier to be buried in Nobles county. The first officers chosen were as follows: William B. Akins, commander; J. S. Shuck, senior vice commander; T. C. Bell, junior vice commander; M. B. Soule, adjutant; C. C. Goodnow, quartermaster; R. D. Barber, surgeon; A. B. Willey, officer of the day; J. C. Goodnow, officer of the guard. During the summer of 1872 weekly meetings were held and a lively interest was manifested. When winter came the post was handicapped in the matter of a suitable building in which to meet, and as a consequence the post became somewhat demoralized. Owing to the fact that many of the members were scattered over the prairie, the meetings were thinly attended, and much of the interest died out. But a determined few decided to keep the organization going and met as often as possible. At the first meeting in 1873 the following officers were elected: R. D. Barber, commander; T. C. Bell, senior vice commander; G. W. Rhone, junior vice commander; M. B. Soule, adjutant; A. J. Manley, quartermaster; R. D. Barber, surgeon; B. S. Langdon, chaplain; J. C. Goodnow, officer of the day; J. S. Stone, officer of the guard; Daniel Stone, sergeant major; B. R. Prince, quartermaster sergeant. These officers were succeeded, as the result of an election at the last meeting held in 1873, by the following: J. A. Town, commander; T. C. Bell, senior vice commander; M. H. Stevens, junior vice commander; M. B. Soule, adjutant; A. J. Manley, quartermaster; R. D. Barber, surgeon; J. W. Smith, chaplain; B. P. Haydenburk, officer of the day; L. B. Bennett, officer of the guard. During 1873 the post had a membership of 125, and was the largest in the state of Minnesota at that time. Then came the grasshopper days and the resultant disasters. So many of the members moved away that the post was finally disbanded. Not until 1883 were steps taken to bring about a reorganization. On July 14 of that year the reorganization was perfected. The post, with the same name and number as the old one, was mustered in by Samuel Bloomer, of Stillwater, adjutant general of the department. The officers chosen at that time were: L. M. Lange, commander; R. R. Miller, senior vice commander; Mons Grinager, junior vice commander; R. B. Plotts, adjutant; R. D. Barber, surgeon; C. P. Shepard, officer of the day; A. S. Husselton, chaplain; N. V. McDowell, officer of the guard; H. C. Shepard, sergeant major; C. T. Pope, quartermaster sergeant. The charter members were R. R. Miller, C. P. Shepard, R. D. Barber, C. B. Langdon, G. W. Brant, J. H. Maxwell, E. B. Paul, L. B. Bennett, L. M. Lange, Robert Firth, J. F. Humiston, W. F. Thayer, B. F. Johnson, R. B. Plotts, Geo. W. Crane, J. H. Johnson, I. J. Coons, Noah V. McDowell, H. C. Shepard, A. S. Husselton, Mons Grinager, Geo. M. Rose, Peter Banks, S. F. Pepple, Wm. McLean, C. C. Whitney, W. W. Herron, Jonathan Gordon, C. T. Pope, A. W. Allen, H. Hurlbert, J. J. Bingham, Wm. Madison, J. J. Bunn, Fred Bloom, A. J. Torrance, J. B. Green, M. S. Twitchell, Douglas Cramer, E. S. Mills, J. T. Lyon and Joseph Kane. [12] Under the first organization the headquarters of the post had been at Miller hall, that famous building that sheltered so many of the early day organizations. When the new post came into existence in 1883 the lodge rooms were moved to Masonic hall. Later the hall over the store building now occupied by Chaney & Mackay was secured, and for many years it was known as Grand Army hall. In more recent years the headquarters have been in the Baker block. Since its reorganization in 1883 Stoddard Post No. 34 has been an active body, and is today one of the most respected orders in the city. STODDARD CORPS NO. 1, W. R. C. The Grand Army post at Worthington at one time had the distinction of being the largest post in the state, and its auxiliary, the Women's Relief Corps, also has a distinctive honor; it was the first corps established in the state of Minnesota. The corps was organized in December, 1883. The first officers were: Mrs. J. A. Town, president; Mrs. Cynthia McDowell, senior vice president; Mrs. Susan Wells, junior vice president; Miss Mary E. Madison, secretary; Mrs. Mary Bennett, treasurer; Mrs. Kephart, chaplain; Mrs. Eloise Brant, conductor; Miss Mary McDowell, guard. The charter was issued by the national officers on March 8, 1884, and the following names appear on the charter: Eloise Brant, Mary McDowell, Susan Wells, May Thayer, Ida Limbert, Sarah McDowell, Sophia Torrance, Kate Husselton, Phoebe Millington, Kate R. Town, Lora Free, Kate Miller, Mary Mills, Anna Lange, Cynthia McDowell, Mary Bunn, Adaline Bingham, Sarah Humiston, Martha DeWolf, Susan F. Bennett, Miss Mary Bunn, Margaret Chamberlain, Hattie Smith, Harriet Smith, Kate L. Plotts, Hattie Barber. [13] FRATERNITY LODGE NO 101, A. F. & A. M. Worthington's second order was a Masonic organization, Fraternity Lodge No. 101, A. F. & A. M. The initial steps toward the organization of a Masonic order were taken late in August, 1872. [14] One month later the grand lodge of Minnesota authorized the creation of a subordinate lodge in Worthington, as the following certificate, filed in the office of the clerk of court of Nobles county on September 27, 1872, shows: Certificate. We hereby certify that a subordinate lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons has been authorized by "Grand Lodge" of Minnesota. That we, the undersigned, have been constituted said lodge by disposition of said grand lodge towit: Moses B. Odell, master; Martin B. Soule, senior warden; and Lachlan F. McLaurin, junior warden. That the name of said lodge is Fraternity Lodge U. D., and that it is located in the county of Nobles, state of Minnesota. That the place of meeting of said lodge is in the town of Worthington, in said Nobles county. Dated the 27th day of September, A. D. 1872. MOSES B. ODELL, Master. MARTIN B. SOULE, Senior Warden. LACHLAN F. MCLAURIN, Junior Warden. The charter members of this pioneer lodge were Albert C. Robinson, L. F. McLaurin, H. C. Rice, J. Craft, C. C. Goodnow, B. F. Thurber, S. Ed. Chandler, I. P. Durfee, A. C. Ecker, Wm. M. Bear, John H. Johnson, Wellington Sherwood, M. B. Odell, Addison P. Lyon, A. J. Manley, Daniel Shell, H. D. Humiston and C. P. Stough. On October 5 a meeting was held, when the following officers were elected: B. F. Thurber, treasurer; A. C. Robinson, secretary; C. C. Goodnow, S. D.; S. E. Chandler, J. D.; Daniel Shell, S. S.; H. C. Rice, J. S.; Wm. Bear, chaplain; C. P. Stough, tyler. LIVING ARCH CHAPTER NO. 28, R, A. M. This lodge of Royal Arch Masons was organized Feb. 3, 1874, with the following charter members: A. C. Robinson, M. B. Soule, I. P. Durfee, H. Webb, W. B. Cook, I. N. Sater, W. Smith, A. P. Lyon and W. H. Wilson. The order was incorporated March 27, 1882. The lodge is in a very prosperous condition, and owns the two brick buildings at the corner of Tenth street and Second avenue, valued at about $15,000. RANSFORD CHAPTER NO. 43, O. E. S. The Masonic auxiliary, Order Eastern Star, was organized Dec. 19, 1891, with the following thirty-eight charter members: Mrs. Hannah Parker, Miss Winnifred Shell, Miss Esther Torrance, Mrs. Josie L. Lewis, Mrs. Mary E. McCartney, Mrs. Mary S. Fellows, Mrs. Nellie D. Smith, Miss Irene A. Webb, Mrs. Louise Crane, Mrs. Mary E. Bennett, Mrs. Ellen Torrance, Mrs. Caroline A. Forbes, Mrs. S. E. Shell, Mrs. Maria L. Dean, Mrs. Mary R. Mitchell, Mrs. Mary E. Pannell, Mrs. Sarah C. Johnson, Mrs. Ida M. Darling, Mrs. Etta P. Webb, Mrs. Hattie H. Bigelow, Mrs. Viola E. Rosenberg, Mrs. Adelia H. Covey, Mrs. Emma F. Kenyon, Mrs. Carrie J. Johnson, Messrs. Wilbur S. Webb, Henry E. Torrance, Azom Forbes, Lorenzo L. McCartney, Abe L. Johnson, Edwin C. Pannell, Frank Lewis, Lucian B. Bennett, Daniel Shell, H. C. Shepard, Ai P. Darling, Benjamin F. Johnson, Chas. W. Smith, Howard L. Durfee. The first officers of the lodge were: Mrs. Mary Mitchell, worthy matron; Dr. W. S. Webb, worthy patron; Mrs. Daniel Shell, associate matron; Mrs. Etta P. Webb, secretary; Mrs. Otis Bigelow, treasurer; Mrs. Hannah Parker, conductress; Mrs. E. C. Pannell, associate conductress. WORTHINGTON LODGE NO. 65, A. O. U. W. Among the strong organizations of Worthington is the Ancient Order United Workmen, which has had an existence for twenty-eight years. It was organized on May 21, 1880, with the following officers and charter members: Azom Forbes, past master; R. R. Miller, master workman; Geo. W. Wilson, foreman; W. A. Peterson, overseer; R. B. Plotts, recorder; Frank Lewis, financier; H. H. Anderson, receiver; Joseph Lowe, guide; C. T. Shattuc, inside watchman; A. S. Husselton, outside watchman; J. S. McManus, Alex Moir and J. Craft, trustees; W. B. Lyon, T. H. Parsons, Wm. Culbertson, A. P. Miller, John McMillan, Peter Banks, Julius Moll, C. W. Hanna, A. E. Tuttle, J. H. Johnson, J. L. Sheeley, O. G. Grundsten, B. N. Carrier, A. L. Clark, S. McLean and C. F. Humiston. The lodge was incorporated March 29, 1894, and is now the owner of the brick building at the corner of Tenth street and Fourth avenue. OKABENA LODGE NO. 18, D. of H. The Degree of Honor lodge, auxiliary to the Workmen, received its charter Nov. 20, 1894. Following are the officers named in the charter: Mrs. Remus Moberly, P. C. of H.; Mrs. May Whitney, L. of H.; Miss Launa Free, recorder; Mrs. Lillian Curtiss, receiver; Mrs. Edith Covey, I. W.; Mrs. Cynthia S. Bullis, C. of H.; Mrs. Susan R. Lowe, C. of C; Mrs. Ellen S. Leonard, financier; Mrs. Luella Darby, S. U.; Mr. E. F. Whitney, O. W. OKABENA LODGE NO 72, K. P. The Knights of Pythias lodge was instituted May 1, 1890, with the following officers and charter members: James Manning, P. C.; W. S. Webb, C. C.; E. E. Warren, V. C.; Robert McCune, P.; H. C. Crawford, M. A.; Grant Morrison, K. R. S.; A. L. Johnson, M. F.; H. C. Shepard, M. E.; J. Hammerberg, I. G.; C. J. Samuelson, O. G.; Chas. E. Savill, Henry E. Torrance, John T. Fisher, E. Ray Humiston, Geo. W. Wilson, James W. Crandall, Erick K. Ramsey, Jerome S. McManus. The lodge was incorporated April 16, 1891. WORTHINGTON CAMP NO. 2294, M. W. A. The Modern Woodmen have one of the strongest fraternal organizations in Worthington. Worthington Camp No. 2294 was organized May 29, 1894, with the following charter members: E. F. Buchan, W. H. Buchan, Olof S. Degn, M. E. Fish, M. Hammond, Theodore Hinricks, J. P. Loveless, F. H. Lyon, Emil Luche, Fred Mitchell, George D. Palm, Ingreman Peterson, John Sullivan, P. W. Thoreau, E. F. Wood, I. L. Wass and William E. Deyoe. The Royal Neighbors, auxiliary to the Modern Woodman, maintain a strong organization. WORTHINGTON LODGE NO. 219, I. O. O. F. So early as 1878 an effort was made to organize an Odd Fellows lodge in Worthington, [15] but it was unsuccessful, and it was not until Aug. 18, 1894, that a charter was granted by the grand lodge. The order was instituted August 29 with the following charter members: E. W. Goff, E. M. Lumm, J. B. Green, Barton Goodrich, G. C. Fellows, Joseph Lowe, John J. Lynch, Albert Bryan and P. B. Curtiss. For a time a Rebekah lodge, auxiliary to the Odd Fellows, had an existence, but it has been discontinued. WORTHINGTON TENT NO. 124, K. O. T. M. The applicants for a charter for a subordinate lodge of the Knights of the Maccabees of the World held their first meeting at G. A. R, hall Oct. 29, 1901; and a short time thereafter the charter was granted. The first officers and charter applicants were as follows: J. J. Parsons, P. C.; H. V. Millar, C.; Thos. Hutton, L. C; John S. Tolverson, F. K. and R. K.; Guy O. Bigelow, chaplain; Henry J. Blume, sergeant; F. E. Walker, physician; Chas. Durling, mata; Peter Heinl, M. of G.; O. B. Congdon, S. M. of G.; John R. Baker, sentinel; Robert Reed, picket; M. S. Smith, H. V. Millar and F. C. Stitser, trustees; Carl Arneson, Albert Durling, John Feldman, Fred E. Hubbard, Eric Leef, Geo. Lewis, Chris Leef, Frank Prouty, Frank E. Scott, Oren R. Bartlett, F. B. McNair, Lawrence Potter, Geo. Smith,. Jeff G. Scott. WORTHINGTON HOMESTEAD NO. 22, B. A. Y. The charter for this lodge of Brotherhood of American Yeomen was granted May 22, 1905, with the following members: E. C. Pannell, Mary E. Pannell, Eugene Stanton, Etta P. Stanton, J. D. Matteson, Belle Matteson, Flora Wood, Alma Peterson, Mary Loveless, Catherine T. Glasgow, Walter S. Aagaard, Louisa W. Aagaard, Ulysses F. Hansberger, Clara L. Hansberger, Will E. Oliver, Emma S. Oliver, L. L. McCartney, E. L. Nance, Katie McCartney, Emma May Nance, E. H. Dieckhoff, Wm. H. Guise, Frances B. Dieckhoff, E. E. Dayton, Cora A. Dayton, Hanah L. Guise, E. W. Cutler, A. F. Collins, Mary J. Collins, Eulalia Garretson, Caroline A. McCune, Mattie M. Hastings, Mary E. Baker, Sophia M. Sterling, Edith E. Schanck, Oscar H. Nebel, Leo. F. Nebel, David Bergstresser, Christine E. Bergstresser, Lottie M. Frink, W. H. Harrington, Jonas A. Wickman, Fredricka Wickman, Chas. O. Barkelew, Catherine V. Barkelew, Wm. H. Barkelew, John B. Walters, Maurice I. Maxwell, Nelle May Maxwell, F. E. Walker, Joseph S. Firth, Byron W. Potter, Chas. J. Paine, Charlotte B. Potter, Maggie E. Paine, Mark C. Sharp, Clara F. Sharp, Geo. F. Hastings, Amelia M. Hastings, Frederick L. Covley, A. W. Little, Ella A. Little, Frank H. Lyon, Effie I. Lyon, Clinton L. Mann, Wm. D. Boddy, F. C. Brace, W. W. Loveless, Grant Morrison, Chas. V. Bryan, Svante J. Kall, Adolph Amondson, Arthur Borst, Fred Wall, Edgar E. Lanphear, Orin Carncross, Josephus E. Norris, Jacob Gleim, Elizabeth Gleim, Harvey Hawley, T. C. Ager. A. M. Gregerson, Emma Gregerson, John T. Milton, Clark H. Pannell. ENDNOTES [1] For the data concerning the history of this church, as well as that of the Union Congregational, I am under obligations to Dr. Geo. O. Moore. The facts are secured almost wholly from his pamphlet "History of the Union Congregational Church." [2] "The Union Congregational church was fully organized on Sabbath last by Rev. Richard Hall, of St. Paul. This new organization starts out with favorable prospects. We understand that no delay will be made in securing a pastor."-Western Advance, May 24,, 1873. [3] Others who. became members of the church during 1873 were Mrs. J. Ames, B. R. Prince, Mrs. B. R. Prince, J. H. Maxwell, I. P. Durfee, J. F. Hollipeter, Ellen A. Weatherbee, Elmira Hollipeter, Mary Humiston, Mrs. M. P. Manley, Rachel D. Rice, A. C. Durfee, Mrs. Miller, O. L. Howard, James Mann, Jennie A. Mann, Elihu Smith, Gracia R. Smith, Alpheus M. Smith, Mary B. Smith, Henrietta G. Smith, John W. Smith, Calista Smith and Henry J. Grant. During 1874 the following became members: Chas. B. Loveless, Mary C. Loveless, Amy J. Miner, Mrs. R. B. Plotts, R. B. Plotts, Mrs. W. S. Stockdale. [4] "A few words on the character of the founders of this church may he appropriately added. Of the early struggles of the church none can have but a faint conception of its many hardships except those who participated in them. But be it said of the early members that, in their periods of depression, and in many and various difficulties they, like the Puritan fathers, never lost sight of their one purpose, to serve their God and their Master. They were firm set in the principle of honesty and the practice of virtue. They were sober, industrious and frugal; resolute, zealous and steadfast. In the school of adversity they gained the discipline of patience. They were the children of adversity but are becoming the fathers of renown. Their work is done. Secred be the trust committed to our care."- D. B. Kumler, in History of M. E. Church. [5] Six months-June to December. [6] W. T. Hobart served nine months of this church year and Geo. Merritt three months. [7] "According to previous announcement, a Presbyterian church was organized last Sabbath. Notwithstanding the unfavorable conditions of the weather and of the roads, twenty members were included in the organization. It is expected that there will be a considerable accession to the number at an early day."-Western Advance, June 1, 1873. [8] Other ruling elders who have served the church since its organization have been Dr. Josephus Craft, Geo. J. Day, Geo. D. Dayton, E. F. Buchan, John Ramage, Henry M. Palm, W. W. Loveless, Dr. W. H. Gaugh, Geo. D. Palm, J. W. Read, G. V. Pettit, C. DeBoer and William Chaney. [9] Filed June 23, 1873, in the miscellaneous record in the office of the register of deeds. [10] "I, Peter Thompson, the secretary appointed at a meeting held by the members of the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran church of Worthington, Nobles county, Minnesota, on the fourth day of May, A. D. 1876, as hereinafter mentioned, do hereby certify that the persons constituting and belonging to the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran church of Worthington, Nobles county, Minn., did on the fourth day of May, 1876, assemble at the house of Charles Rue, in the village of Worthington, Nobles county, Minn., for the purpose of incorporating, . . . that due notice of the time and place of said election was given to the persons entitled to vote thereat; that thirty-nine (39) duly qualified persons assembled at said place of meeting on said fourth day of May, A. D. 1876, duly organized and appointed Rev. L. A. Hoeanzon chairman and said Peter Thompson secretary and then and there determined to incorporate for, religious purposes . . . and then and there duly elected Peter Thompson, C. A. Beck and Peter Wickstrom trustees of said corporation, and then and there determined that said trustees and their successors in office shall forever be known as the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran church of Worthington, Nobles county, Minn. "In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 12th day of January, A. D. 1894. Peter Thompson. Secretary."- Articles of Incorporation, filed Jan. 12, 1894. [11] All became members by letter except the last three named. [12] The eight last named were mustered in July 28, fourteen days after the organization, but were designated as charter members. [13] Eloise Brant and Harriet Smith are the only charter members whose names are still on the membership list. [14] A meeting of the members of Free Masons was held at Soule's law office last week, and necessary steps taken to organize a lodge at this place."-Western Advance, Aug. 31, 1872. [15] "The Odd Fellows of Worthington are requested to meet at the office of A. Forbes on Saturday evening, November 30, to take the preliminary steps toward organizing a lodge at this place."-Worthington Advance, Nov. 28, 1878. Additional Comments: Extracted from: AN ILLUSTRATED HISTORY OF NOBLES COUNTY MINNESOTA BY ARTHUR P. ROSE NORTHERN HISTORY PUBLISHING COMPANY WORTHINGTON, MINNESOTA PUBLISHERS 1908 File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/mn/nobles/history/1908/anillust/chapterx24gms.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mnfiles/ File size: 59.9 Kb