Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2022 with funding from Princeton Theological Seminary Library https://archive.org/details/historyofpresbyt0O0schw HISTORY of The Presbyterian Church IN NEBRASKA By REY. JULIUS F. SCHWARZ, D.D. ~ Stated Clerk of the Synod of Nebraska. C0@00 © i Golden Anniversary Edition, 1924. > A ERRATA. Page 20 Third tine from top should read 1776. Page 118 Omit third line from bottom. ioe é) sf HISTORY of The Presbyterian Church IN NEBRASKA By REY. JULIUS F SCHWARZ, D. BD: Stated Clerk of the Synod of Nebraska. OOSO0O Golden Anniversary Edition. 1924. JOHN CALVIN THE GREAT REFORMER Born, July 10, 1509; Died, May 27, 1564. PREFACE The reader who takes interest in the perusal of this volume will appreciate the fact that its production cost no small measure of industry to compile, arrange and write the matter filling its pages after the lapse of over fifty years since the introduction of Pres- byterianism in the State of Nebraska. For facts, figures and data in making this historical survey and compilation of figures we have turned to the most reliable sources. There are, however, many incidents in the annals of every long- established Church that must be treated, if used at all, after getting the most trustworthy informat on within reach, without an appeal to records. Where dates and other guides to the earliest happenings are not accessible, the author sets up no claim to inerrancy in the recital in the narrative or story of progress. Yet, in the main it will be found accurate in statement and faithful in adhering to the annals as recorded in their consecutive order. We have consulted the records of Synod, dating from the very beginning; fifty volumes of the Minutes of the General Assembly; “The History of Nebraska;” Kieser’s Book Store; ‘“Morton’s His- tOLnyeot Nebraska, Voll lly) History of Lancaster County; “Phe Walthill Times;’ “Presbyterian Law and Usage;” “The Herald and Presbyter;” “Old Elk Hill,’ and the Bible. Assistance must be acknowledged from the Secretary of the Board of National Mis- sions, Secretary of the former Board ot Church Erection, Secretary of the Board of Christian Education and the Board of Ministerial Relief and Sustentation. Also the Pastors and Elders who courteous- ly responded in furnishing the pages of history of the local churches. In the compiling the writer has taken real pleasure, as well as in the preparation of the book for the press; and hopes it will furnish no small mede of satisfaction to the reader, as it presents remin- iscenses that will, without doubt, be gratifying to the survivors of the membership of long ago, as well as history for the younger men who may be searching for statistics and ecclesiastical data of times ago. Ames NUE MRO SS 2% 16. CONSENS CHAPTER I. Presbyterianism Explained The Presbyterian, System: of Goverment 2 arene i IME titia St yg ee ac he rece we sae ee ae eee eo 1s Ruling’ py Fiders nl ores eae eee ee g DGS COMMS vet ees A ree nO Aer ee ee oe 9 ANE @ VP SID y EO 1 ye sere es aso eee nee ee ee 9 TE) SS V1 OU Soc ee ea ee ee ek 10 The..Generak Assembly ose ne ee ee eee eee 10 Potthatt orate: Satemy Vien aslo per isan ll) as 1) selene 11 Worship and Doctrine of the Presbyterian Church ........ 10 Portrait of Rev. Lewis S. Mudge, D. D., LL. D., Stated Clerk of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church “a thes Ui S.A oe tee eee 15 A. \Dectrinal .Detlarattone 3) pte ee ee 14 Penmssoim Members int pee CEN eee er, EA oe 16 Convening of the Fiftieth Annual Session of Synod ...... 17 Portrait of Rev. Thomas F. B. Smith, D; D., Retiring Moderator tS Nstect ee ohne oo ree a ee ee 17 Portrait of Rev. George E. Newell, D. D.,..Moderator OL + Sy MOd, See eee re ale one ee Ae ee 18 “The Synod’s Contribut'on Towards the Development of the States. .080 ee oe eee 19 Portrait of Judge James R. Dean, Vice-Moderator ...... 19 Portrait of Rev. Julius F. Schwartz, D. D., Stated Clerk 25 CHAPTER I. PRESBYTERIANISM EXPLAINED. The Presbyterian System of Government. That portion of the Church catholic, or universal, with which we are connected, and which commands our preference, is designated “The Presbyterian Church in the United States of America.” The foundations of this Church were practically laid August 17, 1560, in Scotland. The first feature of the Presbyterian Church which attracts at- tention is the Scriptural and) liberal character of its government. The foundation of the whole structure lies in the people. With them, as found united in the particular churches or congregations of which the body is composed, originates the authority by which it is governed. The power does not descend from above downward, as in despotisms, but from the people upward, as in representative governments. Each individual member has a voice in the election of the officers of the church with which he is connected. Each church has its own rights guarded, as a member of the body, and its own voice in every question of discipline or doctrine. Regulated by a constitution, law cannot grow into despotism, nor liberty into license, Law and liberty mark every point of the Presbyterian polity. In the government and care of the church there is found a three- fold division of office. Two of these—the ministry and the ruling eldership—have respect to the spiritualities, the third—the deacon- ship—to the temporalities and the benevolences of the Church. Ministry— The first element in this system is the Ministry, that class known in the Presbyterian Form of Government as min- isters or bishops. Of the clergy we maintain that They Are All Equal, and that their authority is derived from Christ Himself. Rom- ans 10> 14-15: Acts; 10: 42; Matthew, 28: 19,20; I1.- Tim. 2: When the Spirit has called a man to this holy office, the Church echoes the voice of her Lord. The candidate presents himself. and the ministry, or the Presbytery, which represents the whole body, ordain him and receive him unto their number and fellowship. (Mark, 3: 14.) The minister becomes pastor of the church through installation performed by the Presbytery or by a committee apponited for that purpose, as may appear most expedient. The call is presented to the Presbytery under whose care the per- son called shall be, that if the Presbytery thinks it expedient to pre- sent the call to him it may be accordingly presented, and no minister or candidate shall receive a call but through the hands of Presbytery. The custom of pastor-elect is inconsistent with the express re- quirements or implications of Form of Government. Presbyteries 8 THE HISTORY -OF THE are enjoined—To take order that as soon as possible after a licentiate or an ordained minister has been called by the church, and the call has been approved and accepted, such person shall be installed as pastor of the church calling him. In the election of pastor no person is entitled to vote who refuses to submit to the censures of the church or who does not contribute his just proportion, according to his own engagements or the rules of the congregation, to all its necessary expenses. F. G., Chapter XXV, Section 4. Each pastor is bishop of the church over which he presides and with the Elders has control of all the branches of the church. None is set as superior over his brethren. Like the bishops of the churches mentioned in the New Testament, (I. Tim. 3: 1-7; Titus 1: 7) he is the brother and equal of his fellow-Presby- LOLS. We hold that in the mnistry we have but one master, — that Christ is our Bishop, and “all we are brethren.” The ministry thus constituted is the primary element in the Government of our Church, They are charged with the preaching of the Word, the administration of the sacraments, and the oversight of the flocks committed to them. In all the acts and recommendations of the several courts the ministers share the responsibility with the Ruling Elders, who have an equal right with them to deliberate and to vote upon all questions. Ruling Elders— Another element is that of Ruling Elders. CON CUSM IA tees om Oram or lait tical sie) In enumerating the several denominations of persons in the Church on whom its edification depended, the Apostle Paul names, as d’stinct from various classes of teachers by him specified, one which he calls “governments.” In another place he speaks of elders who “ruled” without “laboring in word and doctrine.’ These officers we denominate Ruling Elders. This class is one distinctly recognized by early Christian fathers as in the Church, It corresponds with a similar class of officers in the Jewish synagogues in the days of the apostles. It is evident that the object of these officers was the spiritual edification of the people. “They were intended to instruct them in the knowledge of divine truth, to inspire them with pure principles and sp‘ritual affections, to form their individual and social habits to practical holiness and moral order; in one word, to render them meet for the inheritance of the saints in light.” While such is the object of the ministry and eldership, the pastor or bishop of the congregation and the elders who have been elected by the people and solemnly set apart to the office, together constitute the Primary Court of the Church. Of the Court the pastor is mod- PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 9 erator or president, and one of the Elders is appointed by themselves as secretary. The body thus constituted is denominated the Church Session. It is charged with the duty of providing for the instruction of the congregation, the religious training of the young, and the discipline of erring members. It is governed in its proceedings by a code of laws adopted by the whole church, and is required to keep a written record of its proceedings, which record is subject to the re- view and control of a superior court. It has power to admit members to the communion of the church, to exculpate and protect those who are unjustly accused, to admonish such as may be reasonably expected to be reclaimed by gentle means, to suspend from the communion of the Lord’s Supper gross offenders, and to sever incorrigible mem- bers from. their connection. with-the:church, In cases of church dis- cipline every trial is open and public. A good record is required to be kept of all the proceedings; and parties interested are entitled to a copy at their request, without charge, save only the expense of transcribing. If, through the imperfections or bias of this court or any part of it, any person feels himself aggrieved by its decisions, he has the right of appeal to the Presbytery. Thus, cases of discipline are not brought before the whole church, to create a scandal which might often be greater than the original evil, but come before a body of judicious men, men of godliness and experience, chosen by the church for this purpose. And, should any local prejudice interfere with justice, an appeal is open to a larger and more impartial tribunal. The Presbyterian form of government also recognizes the office of Deacons. (Acts 6: 2-6; I Tim. 3: 8-13.) To them properly ap- pertain the care of the charities of the Church, the relief of the poor, and the management of its temporal affairs. In many places this office has fallen into disuse. It may be that the resuscitation and wise use of the deaconship would rel’eve the spiritual officers of the churches from cares not properly belonging to them, and preserve them from present temptations “to leave the word of God and serve tables.” The Presbytery is the first court above the Session of the in- dividual church, In it, as well as in the Session, is found the great principle of the government of the Church, not by the clergy alone, but by the min‘sters and the people as represented in the Flders. Each Presbytery is composed of the bishops or ministers of several neighboring churches, and one ruling elder from each church of the Presbytery. It serves both as a bond of union to the several churchk- es, and as a court of appeal to each of their Sessions. Meeting sem'- annually, the state of religion in the churches is passed in review. The records of Sessions are examined, that any injustice or irregu- larity may be rectified. 10 DTHESTWISTORYSO hear i. The Synod consists of all the ministers and ruling elders from all the churches within the bounds of several Presbyter’es. Whee Presbyterian churches are numerous enough to require a still higher Court there is a General Assembly, to which delegates are sen from all the Presbyteries. The General Assembly is the highest judicatory of the Presby- terian Church. It cons'sts of an equal delegation of bishops and el- ders from each presbytery, in the following proportion; viz: each presbytery consisting of not more than twenty-four ministers, shall send one minister and one elder; and each presbytery consisting of more than twenty-four ministers, shall send one minister and one el- der for each additional twenty-four ministers, or for each additional fractional number of ministers not less than twelve; and these dele- gates, so appointed, shall be styled, Commissioners to the General Assembly. (Form of Government, Chapter XII. Sect. II.) The power of these church courts is both legislative, executive and judicial, and the higher courts are given authority over the lower courts, as set forth definitely in the Constitution of the Church. They all emphasize that Presbyterian government is not by single men, such as diocesan bishops, but by representative assemblies. Worship and Doctrine of the Presbyterian Church. “Till I come, give attention to reading, to annotat’on, to doctrine.” I. Timothy 4: 14. The Presbyterian Church in its worship is marked by simplicity and a close adherence to Scripture precedent. The public worship of God ‘n the Presbyterian Church is not conducted by a prescribed liturgy. The liberty of extemporaneous prayer is restricted by no forms. The heart of the pastor, fresh from the closet and from in- tercourse with his flock, leads the devotions of the congregation. Every circumstance of his people, their wants, their sorrows, their cares, their fears—may enter into the worship of God’s house. It cannot be supposed that liturgies were used in Apostolic times. No one can believe that Paul kneeled down on the shore, when he part- ed with his friends at Tyre, and read a prayer from a book, or that Paul and Silas used a prescribed form when they prayed at midnight in the pr’son at Philippi. “The Lord’s: Prayer” forms no objection to our usage, because it is not given in the same words by the dif- ferent evangelists, as it doubtless would have been had it been in- tended as a prescribed form. Besides, it contains no clause asking for blessings in the name of Christ, which our Savior himself sol- emnly enjoined upon his Church before he withdrew his personal presence. In the subsequent inspired history we find no allusion to this form of prayer, nor any reference to either saying or reading REV: WILLIAM HENRY ROBERTS, D. D., LES D. Late Stated Clerk Of The General Assembly, From 1884 to his death, June 26, 1920. 192 THE:HISTORY OF; THE of prayers,—both of which modes’ of expression are natural for those who employ precomposed forms. In forming the “Directory of Public Worship,” our Church re- gards the Holy Scriptures as the only safe guide: therefore she does no more than to recommend a judicious arrangement of the several parts of the public service, throwing upon the pastor the responsibility of preparing himself for a proper and edifying per- formance of those acts of worship which shall be suited to the ever- changing wants of the congregation. In its teachings the Presbyterian Church addresses itself alike to the mirrd*and-the heart. We believe that instruction is the great instrument of Chris- tianity. Our Savior is the light of the world, and men are sanctified through the truth. We believe that worship and a due cultivation of the religious sensibilities are vastly important,, but that just con- ceptions of the plan of salvation, and a clear view of the prince ples by which men ought to be governed are the primary consequence, as indispensible to securing a right quality of worship and real ac- ceptance with God. The doctrines of the Presbyterian Church are Calv nistic. They are so called, not because Calvin invented them. They were the doctrines of all the leading Reformers,—of the Waldenses, for five or six hundred years before the Reformation, of Augustine and the primsytive Church; and especially are they distinctly exhib‘ted in the word of God. This system of doctrine is clearly sct forth in the Westminster Confession of Faith and the Larger and Shorter Cate- chisms, and compiled in the Apostle’s Creed. Without pretending to expound fully the great principles more amply unfolded in the standards of the Church, we may say, briefly, that the Presbyterian Church maintains, that since the fall of Adam, and in consequence of his lapse, all men are naturally destitute of holiness, al'enated entirely from God, and justly subject to his e- ternal displeasure. The plan of man’s recovery from this state is, from first to last, a system of unmerited grace. The meditation of Jesus Christ, including his instructions, his example, his sacrifice on the cross, h’s resurrection, ascension and intercession, are the means of bringing men back to God. Yet these means would be without efficacy if there were not revealed to man a gratuitous justi- fication through the merit of our Savior’s sacrifice, and if the Holy Spirit did not by his own invisible agency cause sinners to accept a free pardon and salvation. Hence the provisions of mercy are gratuitous, not only depending on the sovereign grace of God, but PRESBYTERIAN, CHURCH VIN NEBRASKA: 1S the disposition to accept these provisions is produced by a sovereign interposition of the divine Spirit. “Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.” “All the dispensations of his grace, as well as of his provi- dence, and, amongst the rest, the effectual calling and salvation of every believer, entered into his plan from all eternity.” “Yes, so as that thereby neither is God the author of sin, nor is violence offered to the will of the creatures nor is the liberty or contingency of the second causes taken away, but rather established.’ That man is free as to his will, that a full provision for all men is made in the atonement, and that it is not the will of the Father that any should perish, is abundantly evident from the Scriptures. Jesus Christ is offered in the Gospel as a full, free and willing Savior to all who re- pent and believe. Men perish because they will not come unto him that they might have life. For the false inferences drawn from the Scriptural doctrines by opponents, Presbyterians cannot be held res- ponsible. The distinction between a doctrine and the inferences which men choose to draw from it is not to be overlooked. The General Assembly of 1910 recorded “The Doctrinal Dec- laration,’ commonly called the Five Points, and reaffirmed the Five Essentia! Points of Doctrine in 1223 as follows: A @ortrinal @erlaration Adopted by the General Assembly 10T0. Reafirmed by the General Assembly in 1023 1. “It is an essential doctrine of the Word of God and our standards that the Holy Spirit did so inspire, guide and move the writers of Holy Scripture as to keep them from error.”’ 2. “It is an essential doctrine of the Word of God and our standards that our Lord Jesus Christ was born of the Virgin Mary.’’ 3. “It is an essential doctrine of the Word of God and our standards that Christ offered up Himself a sacrifice to satisfy Divine justice and to reconcile us to God.’’ 4. “It is an essential doctrine of the Word of God and of our standards con- cerning our Lord Jesus Christ, that on;the third day He rose again from the dead with the same body with which He suf- fered, with which also He ascended into heaven, and there sitteth at the right hand of His Father, making intercession.’’ 5. “It is an essential doctrine of the Word of God as the supreme standard of our faith that our Lord Jesus showed His power and love by working mighty mira- cles. This working was not contrary to nature, but superior to it.’’ <== Rives © Sono MO) GE wD sels Des Stated: Clerk Of The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Ghurehne line linen ler oa. 16 THEVHISTORY. OF THE Terms of Membership. The only terms of membefship are the conditions of salvation. A profession of faith in Christ and obedience to him is all that is required in order to be baptized.” Faith in Christ involves repentance for sin, dependence for salvation solely upon His atoning work, rec- ognition of His deity, acknowledgment of His authority as Lord and acceptance of the Scriptures as the Word of God. Every one who is conscious of his lost condition and realizes that he is in need of a Savior is a worthy applicant for membership in the Church of Jesus Christ. In appearing before the Session for admission into the Church the following questions must in all sincerity be answered in the affirmative: 1. Do you believe in one God, Father, Son and Holy Ghost? 2. Do you believe in Jesus Christ as the only begotten Son of God, and do you receive Him as your Savior and acknowlerge Him as your Lord? 3. Do you believe in the Holy Scriptures as the word of God. and accept them as the infallible and supreme rule of faith and con- duct? 4. Do you promise to endeavor to lead a consistent Christian life? 5. Do you promise to obey the rules of this church, to contri- bute to its support according to ability, to attend its services, and to promote its peace, purity, and welfare, so long as you remain a mem- ber? The habits that every Christian should indulge in are, daily prayer, regular reading in the word of God and faithfully to perform ihe duties as a church member. EELS oe PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 17 GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY SERVICE. REV. THOMAS F. B. SMITH, D. D. Retiring Moderator The fiftieth annual session of the Synod of Nebraska was held in the F’rst Presbyterian Church of Kearney, Nebraska, October 16-18, 1923. The Synod was opened with a sermon by the retiring Moderator, Rev. Thomas F. B. Smith, D. D., who chose for his text Exodus 34: 2, “Be ready in the morning.” A historical illustrated address was given by the Rev. Robert W. Taylor, D. D., showing pictures of many of the early workers in the Synod of Nebraska, together with scenes and the first church- es that were built in the Synod. The Synod was constituted with prayer led by Dr. Thomas F. B. Smith. The name of the Rev. George E. Newell, D. D., of the Presbytery of Hastings was placed in nomination and unanimously 18 CHES TORY. © Balti : REV. GEORGE E. NEWELL, D.D., Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings, Nebraska and Moderator of the Synod of Nebraska. elected. The Moderator chose as Vice-Moderator, Judge James R. Dean of the Presbytery of Kearney. A Golden Anniversary Committee had been appointed in the meeting of Synod held in York, October 17-19,1922, naming as the personnel, Rev. Benjam’n Markley Nyce, D. D., Rev. John H. Car- penter, D. D., and Rev. Julius F. Schwarz, D. D. Rev. Schwarz, as the Stated Clerk of the Synod, was chosen by the Committee to pre- pare a historical research which appears in Chapter II, under the head of “The Beginning of the Organized Life and the Development of the Synod of Nebraska of the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A.” PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 19 JUDGE JAMES R. DEAN, Elder of The Broken Bow Presbyterian Church And Vice-Moderator of The Synod of Nebraska. The Synod’s Contribution toward the Development of the State. Address delivered by the Vice-Moderator, Judge James R. Dean of the Nebraska Supreme Court, at the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Synod of Nebraska Held at Kearney, October 16-18,1923. Fathers and Brethren: The human mind is given to the observance of the anniversaries which mark the high points in religious and civil progress. But the observance of an anniversary standing alone is of small moment, It is the work that is done after the anniversary that counts. It is said that Mrs. Browning, looking from her window at the stream of flowers which were poured by the young men on the spot where 20 THE-HISLORY OF THE Savonarola:fell, wondered what would be the fate of Italy if the young men were content with strewing flowers. July 4, 1775, the Declaration of Independence was given to the world and the anniversary has been observed ever since by patriotic speech and fireworks. But the signing of the Declaration of Inde- pendence of itself would have accomplished nothing had it not been for the valor of those who signed and who at once went to work to bring about the fruition of the hopes which found expression in that historic instrument. It was not the signing alone that counted but it was the seven years of work and war which followed the signing that made our country free. It follows that if we give over the 4tk of July to speeches and fireworks alone it avails nothing unless the exercises are followed by courageous, intelligent and organized work for Americanism and American ideals throughout the year. So it is with the work of the church. We may have our ann’- versaries and we may sound paeans of praises in honor of the great church leaders and our faithful ministry but unless this is followed by untiring work the anniversary will be fruitless of worthwhile results. I am glad to say that in Nebraska the Presbyterian church as an organized body, under the guidance of the Synod, has been alive to its opportunities. But we must give our attention to present problems, In national affairs it is of course well to dwell upon the heroic deeds of the Pilgrim fathers and of the Cavaliers of 140 and 150 years ago and to direct the attention of young and old to the marvelous work they accomplished. To ment’on the names of Washington, Jefferson, Adams, Franklin and of Captain John Smith, Calvert, Ogle- thorpe, Berkely, and their contemporaries, is to bring to mind one of the most colossal achievements in ail the realm of time, namely, the founding of the United States of America. And it is well that we direct the thought of the young people to their example, But it will not do to stop with the spoken work of eulogy. We must do more, We must carry on. You will recall that Lincoln emphasized this thought in his speech on the battle field of Gettysburg when he said: “The world will little note nor long remember what we say here. But it will never forget what they did here. It is for us, the living, rather to be dedicated here to the untinished work which they who fought here thus far so nobly advanced.” An unfinished work is the heri- tage of every generation. And it is our heritage. It is the burden of the race because the work of civilization is never finished. It has been well said that we build upon the foundation which is left by those who have gone before and those who follow us must take u and carry on the work where we leave off. : PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 21 The question before us then, is what are some of the things that we should do in order that the church work may be carried on and greater advancement be made in the 50 years that are to come than has been made in the 50 years that have passed. I apprehend that one of the first things is to get the men of the church to work. The women are all at work. There is no trouble on that feature of church activity. They have their ladies’ aid and it is the parent of mission- ary and other useful societies. But what are they doing? It used to be said that when the young man arrived at the age of 21 years or thereabouts he had outgrown the sabbath school and was content with the attendance upon the regular church services and sometimes even that was abandoned. You will recall that it used to be said of some of our western churches that they had just enough men to fill the church offices such as the session and the board of trustees and the like. And sometimes the same men filled both. But that is no longer true. A change has come over the churches in this respect and men generally are begin- ning to take a more lively interest in church activities than formerly. And the men of our church are benevolent in all that has to do with church support and humanitarian work generally. On this point I strongly urge the system of tithing and am glad to note that at least once a year this plan of giving receives special attention in our churches from the pulpit under the direction of the Synod. The drouth of 1894 will be long remembered. The earth was like iron and the skies were like brass. Scarcely any rain fell through- out the year. There was a seed time but there was no harvest. The Presbyterian Church came to the relief of the stricken people of the state generously. Dr. Sexton, who was then Synodical Superintendent, in his annual report to Synod made these observations: (For this excerpt I am indebted to Dr, Schwarz, our efficient stated clerk;) “No true record can ever be made on earth of the self-denying labors of our ministers and the members of their congregations in hunting up the worthy destitute in order to relieve their necessities. From all sources relief supplies for the destitute came into our hands, and who was better qualified to make the distribution than the mis- sionaries on the ground who knew the people? So far as can be learnedsfrony-the brethren engaged in -act-ve-relief -work, wmany- thou- sands of people have been kept from actual suffering ‘by the timely distribution of food, fuel and clothing to those most in need of such supplies. The Presbyterian relief association of Nebraska organized about the last of January for the purpose of securing funds to pro- vide feed and seed for the farmers, received and loaned over $10,000.00. The Rev. W. B. Ringland, D. D., was the treasurer of this fund.” oz THE HISTORYSORS CHE “For direct relief work in supplying the needy with food, fuel and clothing over $7,000.00 in cash has been received and distributed by our missionaries within the bounds of our Synod. In addition to this about eighty-five boxes and 550 barrels of clothing as well as full carloads of flour have been received and distributed among our needy people. The Presbyterian church has taken high rank among the Christian workers engaged in supplying the wants of the desti- tute, and in time to come the fruits of such self-denying efforts will become manifest in the enlargement of our spiritual influence. Our thanks are due the many friends throughout the land who so kindly remembered us in our time of need and so generously responded to our appeals for aid. Our hope and prayer is that they may receive the blessing promised to the liberal soul, and with that also the greater blessing of eternal life.” I am glad to present the forgoing excerpt from the report of that pioneer missionayr, Dr. Thomas L. Sexton. The Y. M. C. A. is one of the greatest factors in evangelism and the Presbyterians have taken a prominent part in the contribu- tions which go to keep it moving along. The attitude of our church in respect of law enforcement is flattering. Our people have taken a prominent part in ridding the nation of the saloon and of the whis- key traffic generally. It goes without saying that Presbyterians stand for law and order. They stand for undiluted Americanism. Sabbath observance is very largely practiced by our people and a day has been set apart upon which the ministry of our church pre- sent that subject to their people. Did you ever stop to think of the revolution that has been wrought in the social and economic life of this nation by the automobile? The introduction of the motor pro- pelled vehicle into the already complex relations of life has brought about conditions which were unthought of only a few years ago. The automobile which is here to stay is the greatest factor in the business and social life of this age, and by it the fundamental activities of our people have been vastly changed. It has imposed new and un- tried duties and burdens upon all the people in their mutual relations everywhere. But it has been said by some that the automobile has caused decreased attendance upon the Sabbath services in our church- es. I do not think so. Right-minded persons will use this modern conveyance as a means to take them to the church rather than to take them away from its ministrations. Rev. Dr. Bible who will ad- dress you this evening on Foreign Missions told me yesterday, coming over from Lincoln, that in China a chinaman is taken into the church on probation and one of the requirements is that, if the man is a merchant, he must close his store on the Sabbath day and in China that means much because they have no day of rest. I do not know what others may think but my thought is that all of us may well say in the language of the old song, “The Old-Time PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 23 Religion is Good Enough for Me.” Some innovation in the manner of church services are doubtless entirely proper but with it all we must not forget the words of the Master, who said, “And Teital be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto Me.” It has been said that the radio will destroy church attendance because the people can sit at their ease in their homes and there en- joy the church services and so remain away from the church house. A few evenings ago I heard Prof. Kent of Yale, a prominent church man, deliver an address at Lincoln at the annual meeting of the Con- gregational church. He said he did not fear the radio in this respect. He expressed the belief that the attention of the hearer would be di- rected to the man who deliverd the sermon and his personal presence would thereby be attracted to the church. An old Presbyterian once said to me that the Presbyterian church in the United States bears the same relation to the moral and re- ligious fabric of our country that the Rocky Mountain range bears to its material structure. In other words, it was, in his opinion, the backbone of the nation. His observation was of course one of loy- alty to a church that he loved. But perhaps there are Presbyterians who would admit it without argument, as the lawyers say. Did you ever stop to think how slow is the growth of a worth- while idea? Did you ever-stop to think how slow has been the pro- gress and growth of this nation? You cannot hasten the growth nor the normal development of a nation any more than you can hasten the growth and normal development of a child. All history teaches this. To bring out this point I heard Prof. David Swing of Chicago use this illustration about a year before he died. He said that ages were required to bring the human race to a point where it could apply itself to wisdom. His subject that morning was taken from the Ninetieth Psalm where it is written: “So teach us to number our days that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” He said that the world had revolved on its axis for more than six thousand years before the human race discovered that it was easier to draw a loaded wagon on two parallel rails than to drag a loaded wagon through mud with- out the rails. It is said that where there is no vision the people perish. My friends, were it not for vision we would yet be dragging loaded wag- ons through the mud. And this would be true in every avenue of human activity. The Christian church today has the greatest opportunity it has ever had for real service to the human race, In view of the catas- trophe of war which has engulfed the world men say that the Chris- tian religion has failed. My friends, it is not the Chr’stian religion that has failed, it is the human race that has failed to apply its prin- ciples to the affairs of men. 24 THE SHISTORY OF -LHE What a spectacle the world presents today. Russ‘an in ruins. Germany on the point of collapse. France is engaged in a struggle to preserve a place amongst the nations. England staggering under a burden of debt and harassed by the unemployment of its people. Italy in a local ferment and China disrupted with civil war. Japan has been devastated by an earthquake. What a contrast the United States presents when compared with the devastation that has overtaken all the rest of the world. How trivial are the evils which beset us in comparison with other countries. Our continent has vast resources and Alaska has apparently only now “been discovered or, at all events, its vast possibilities and its hidden wealth has only now been made known to us. It goes without saying that we have an intelligent and industrious populat'on, We are pro- tected by thousands of miles of ocean from the rivalry of other nations and we have no age-old heritage of hate. The Spanish American War and the World War have served to bring what was once discordant sections into the bonds of brotherhood. There is not a man, woman or child in all this vast domain who should not be thankful for the blessings which we enjoy and for the prospects that they will continue. In a country so circumstanced the Chris- tian people should take their rightful place as a leader and all our denomination should join in all that has to do with bringing about a spirit of brotherhood that we may realize that we are one people and that God is the father of us all. The recent Disarmament Conference that was held at Washing- ton was one of the high points in the history of our country, The name of President Harding, who called the international conference, will be immortalized in the history of our country by this one act as was the name of President Monroe under whose administration the Monroe Doctrine first took definite form. “My friends, for all the blessings which have been strewn upon the pathway of our people we as an organized church should be thankful to the Giver of all good.” STATED CLERK OF THE SYNOD Fauhfully Yours, pO rontier. @ lOneer S erp ie AAs . OR: why wr “Ni, Padlig’ Tan 4 a ai aN ; z a Work and) Pastor. 2 ee ee 88 Pastors, Officers and Members A Factor)... 9 Women’s “Synodical? Society: 2 .n0t-saeeesce eee 100 Summary sand «Concluding Statements ect nee 108 Officersvof, the Present Day-Syn0di..+.2:. see 112 Standing and Permanent Committtees of Synod ............ 112 Portraitssor The? Clerks# 2 113 Incorporation and Standing Rules of the Synod ............ 114 GoldenAnnitversary Veterats 2:..:2...0 eo ee 120 List rof-Ministers .Deceaseds. 1-1. 4 ee eee 125 GHAP TERS: GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY. We are looking today across a half century into a period of pecu- liar interest to the churches and members of the Synod of Nebraska. If we were to choos a teext we should turn to the words “And when they were come, and had gathered the church togeth- er, they rehearsed all that God had done with them. .. And there they abode for a long time with the disciples.” Naming Nebraska The first white settlement of any importance was Fort Atkinson, established in 1819, abandoned in 1827. It was located upon the Council Bluff, adjoining the present town of Fort Calhoun, sixteen miles north of Omaha. It was the furthest west post of the United States Army, headquarters of the Sixth Infantry and Rifle Regiments, with a population, military and civil, of over one thousand people. It was the focus of the fur-trading for a vast region. The records of this fort in the State Historical Society library show that there was the first school, first library, the first farm experiment station, the first rainfall record, the first saw mill and the first white child born in the Nebraska region. The new Nebraska Territory was five times as large as the pres- ent state of Nebraska. It stretched all the way from Kansas to Can- ada and from the top of the Rocky Mountains eastward to Iowa and Minnesota. It was the home of the Buffalo, the pra‘rie dog and wild Indians. The Indian tribes found in Nebraska by the first white ex- plorers include these: The Otoe, Omaha and Ponca tribes, each numbering 2,000 to 3,000 people and dwelling on both sides of the Missouri river, the Otoe in the southeast, the Omaha in the middle and the Ponca near the mouth of the Niobrara river. These tribes were related in blood, language and customes to each other and also to the great Sioux tribes which lived farther north and west. The Pawnee nation occupied the central part of Nebraska from the Loup river south to the Republican and numbered about ten thousand people. Their language, customs and traditions were very different from those of any other Nebraska tribe. West of the Pawnee nation the Indian tribes included the Brule and Oglala Sioux, the Kiowa, the Cheyenne and Arapahoe, and sometimes the Comanche. These tribes spoke different languages. They were hunting tribes and generally at war with the Pawnee and other tribes in eastern Nebraska. Altogether about 40,000 Indians made Nebraska their home or hunting grounds. 30 DH betist CRW) Peers Nebraska received its name from the Otoe Indian word for the Platte river, Ne-brath-ka, meaning Flat Water. The first suggestion of this name was made by Lieutenant John C, Fremont in his report of explorations in this .region in 1842-44. According to Mr. Addison E. Sheldon, Secretary of the State Historical Society, the secretary of war, Willam Wilkins, adopted this suggestion in his report of November 30,1844, saying, “The Platte or Nebraska being a central stream would very properly furnish a name to the territory.” Bellevue, twenty four miles below Fort Atkinson, became a fur- trading post and United States Indian Agency about 1823, It is the oldest existing town in Nebraska. The first officers appointed by President Pierce under the pro- visions of the organic bill were: Francis Burt, of South Carolina, Governor; Thomas B. Cuming, of Iowa, Secretary; Fenner Ferguson, of Michigan, Chief Justice; James Bradley, of Indiana, and Edward R. Hardin, of Georgia, Associate Justices; Mark W. Izard of Arkan- sas, Marshal; and Experience Estabrook, of Wisconsin, Attorney. The First Christian Work Done in Nebraska. The exploration of the region drained by the Missouri, in 1804, paved the way to more commercial undertakings, In 1805, Manuel Lisa, a wealthy Spaniard, with a party in search of trading grounds, reached the jlands north of the Platte. The beauty of the scene caused him to exclaim “Bellevue,” by which name the spot has been since designated. In 1842, Col. A. Sarpy became agent of the American Fur Com- pany at Bellevue, and, for thirty years, was the leading spirit of the region. To this place the Indians for hundreds of miles around brought their furs and exchanged them tor such luxuries as the white man had acquainted them with. One year previous to Col. Sarpy’s arrival, the United States Government transferred the Agency, formerly at Fort Calhoun, or Old Council Bluffs, to Bellevue. It is at this place where Rev. John Dunbar began work among the Omaha Indians as far back as 1834. The Presbyterian Church established a Mission for the Indians. The work was in charge of Rev. Moses Merill, and later of Rev. |Ed- ward McKinney, Rev. John Quinby and Rey. William Hamilton. In the fall of 1846, the Presbyterian Board of Missions sent Rev. Edward McKinney to select a suitable place for the founding of a mission school in the vicinity of the Platte. After a careful examina- tion of the locality, he chose Bellevue, and erected a log house for his residence. In the spring of 1847, Mr. Walter Lowrie, Secretary of the Board, visited Bellevue and confirmed the selection, at the same time ordering the construction of necessary buildings on the plateau. These were finished in 1848, A school had been opened by Messrs. Dunbar and Ellis, on Coun- PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. Si cil Creek, up the Platte, before the formal opening of the Bellevue school; but Indian hostility to the effort had resulted in its abandon- ment. Thus it is that the Bellevue mission was the second school begun in the territory afterward called Nebraska, R. E. Reed was the first Superintendent, and the mission force consisted of Rev. Edward McKinney and family and Mr. R. E. Reed. dSNO UOTSSI IL 10D) In ‘OTSE popory ‘onasjjag 3e uediiawy 24} Jo Jsod Sulpesy plo oy} pure The present Omaha Reservation comprises 135,122 acres in Thurs- ton, Cumming and Burt counties, and there are at present 1,400 In- dians living on this reservation; 700 of whom own their own farms, either leasing or cultivating them, According to Government sta- 32 BLES Thee © Bee ieee tistics from 80 percent to 85 percent of these Indians-are afflicted with some kind of disease; about 25 percent with tuberculosis. Our mis- sion center for this reservation is at Macy, nine miles out from Walthill. In 1845 the Omahas had neither school nor missionary; neither had the Pottawattomies, who were then situated across the river from them, any school at that time. But the Presbyterian Board of Missions was then erecting a large and commodious school-house for the Iowas and Sacs and Foxes. The accompanying engraving represents the mission building erected on the:-Omaha Indian Reservation in 1856 by Rev. William Hamilton, under the Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions. It was built shortly after the removal of the Indians to their new reser- vation, then in Blackbird County, and for the first three years was in charge of the Rev. Dr. Sturgis. He was succeeded by Rev. R. J. Burt, and he in turn in 1867 by Rev. William Hamilton. The building was three stories above the basement, 75 x 35 feet in dimens ons, and was-all- concrete except:the basement, which was of stone. In recent years the building became dilapidated and was wrecked. Rev,. William Hamilton, better known as Father Hamilton, gath- ered and organized a congregation of the Omaha tribe, known as the Blackbird Hill Presbyterian Church. He entered upon his life service of consecration to the welfare of the Indians. During the summer of 1837 he was accepted by the Presbyterian Board of For- eign Missions as their missionary and ordained in October of the REV. WILLIAM HAMILTON DR. SUSAN LA FLESCHE PICOTTE + Septembet 17, 1891. + September 17, 1915. REV. ROBERT Mc ELWEE Present Missionary to the Omaha REV. GEORGE ARTHUR BIETH 7 August 13, 1922. Indians. 34 THE HISTORY OFTHE same year. He immediately started westward. Leav ng Pittsburg October 30, 1837 they arrived at the Iowa and Sac mission on Wolf river, December 29th, following. He remained here as a missionary for fifteen years, when he was transferred to the Omaha and Otoe miss‘on, at Bellevue, Nebraska, arriving there June 6, 1853. He con- tinued w'th quiet, patient, steadfast fidelity to the end of about fifty- four years. Father Hamiton undertook the task of translating the Gospel Hymns from the English to the language of the Omaha tribe. When completed he was advised by the Government officials not to use them. In another chapter of this book Rev. Hamilton’s labors and achievements will be given in detail. The first successor to the pioneer Missionary and Pastor was Rey. Jopley, who was succeeded in 1901 by Rev. William cee Grate Rev. Findley and Rev. Henry Stewart supplied the field for a brief time until in Apr] 1908 Rev. George Arthur Beith accepted the call to the Blackbird Hill Church and was installed as the pastor on June 16, 1908. For nine years Rey. and Mrs. Be'th labored with the Indian people with devot’on, sacrifice and zeal. During his pastorate the church was enlarged and repaired to the extent of $2,500.00. During this time he also negotiated with the Government for a property to be used as a home for the missionary where Rev. and Mrs. Beith lived to May 2, 1917. Rev. J. J. Britell was the successor to the last-named pastor who was succeeded by Rev. Robert McElwee who is in charge of the work at the present time. The property values at the Mission station amount to about $8,000.00, The Elders of the Indian Church are Levi Levering, Hiram Walker, Dan Walker and Thos. McCauley, representing a membership of eighty communicants. Of the many who were led to Christ, through the preaching of the Gospel, we would single out a woman who developed a very super or personality. It is the late Dr. Susan LaFlesche Picotte, who occupies a very unique place in the grateful memory of the Church. Her father was Chief Joseph LaFlesche, or Iron Eye. Her mother’s name was Mary, the daughter of Ni-ko-mi of the Iowa tribe. Al- though the Chief had never had opportunity to learn to read and write, he was very anxious that his children should receive all edu- cational advantages it was possible for them to have. S o as they be- came old enough they were all sent to the mission school maintained on the Omaha reservation by the Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions. Girlhood found the daughter of the Chief in the institution of learning, appyling herself diligently to mastering the education of the white man, The great passion of her life was the welfare of her people for which she gave herself unselfishly, passionately to the task of relieving, helping, and uplifting the Indians, She was ever trying to bring into visible evidence her vision in the interest of her people. The hospital at Walthill, Nebraska, is a monument to her unceasing labors; it is only one of her actualized dreams. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 35 Walthill Indian Hospital. Dr. Picotte had the d’stinction of being the only Indian person, man or woman, ever commissioned as a Medical Missionary by the Presbyterian Board of Home Missions. She held her leadership among the Omaha Ind‘ans as the most influential person, inspite of the prejudice and tradition that the Omahas had never been led by a woman. She was the physican for practical'y the whole Omaha tribe. She led a delegation of her tribesmen to Washington to treat w th the government authorities on the most important and most suc- cessful mission ever undertaken by the tribe. Because of the protest she signed and presented, the sale of liquor in the towns on the Oma- ha and Winnebago Indian Reservation is forever prohibited in the title conveyances. Hardly an Omaha Indian is living who has not been treated and helped by her. Seldom did she accept remuneration, but from her purse she gave willingly to her peeple to buy medicines or necessit es, and to bury their dead, w'thout thought of recoinpense or reward. To her such acts were a God-given duty that imposed not even an obligation of gratitude. For more than twenty years before her death, and while she was accomplishing her life work, she suffered constantly from the malady which finally brough death, September i7th, 1915. Her farewell mes- sage to her tribe breathe the earnestness of her life. To her pastor, Rev. George A .Beith she conveyed the following message on her deathbed, “I shall not see them again, tell them for me, that I want 36 AM aM tae RAMEN Oe (ONS Iie a; them to go to church; tell them that I said this—that Dr. Picotte said it.” Her husband having preceded her in death she was. sur- vived by two sons, at the time of her demise, attending the Nebraska University, also one sister, the wife of W. T. Diddock, an Elder of the Walthill Presbyterian Church. In addition to the Mission work on the reservation the Govern- ment conducts a school for Indian young people at Genoa, For years we tried to maintain a church at that point, but finally it was dissolved and the interestg of our young Indians are looked after by Rev. J. M. Hinds, pastor of the Congregational Church at Genoa. First Foundations of the English Speaking Presbyterian Church. Before settlers could secure title to land the United States made treaties with the Indians for their land. The first treaties were made in 1854 with the Omaha and Otoe Indians by which about 5,000,000 acres of land in eastern Nebraska were purchased, surveyed and op- ened to settlement. The first governor, appointed by President Franklin Pierce, was Francis Burt of South Carolina. He reached Bellevue October 7, 1854 and died there October 18. Thomas B. Cuming, the secretary of state, became the acting governor. The first conflict in the new territory was between Bellevue and Omaha for territorial capital. Omaha was then a little village in the woods with a ferry across the river to Council Bluffs, which was the large town of the region, Acting Governor Cuming favored Omaha. He called the first session of the territorial legislature to meet in Omaha January 16, 1855. In 1855 the Rev. Henry M. Giltner caught the vision of the prom- ising plains of Nebraska. With his bride he journeyed from Hanover Indiana, under a commission from the Presbyterian Board of Home Missions as a missionary to the Nebraska Territory. They travel- ed in their own conveyance. After a tedious journey and detentions by sickness the Rev. Giltner became somewhat disheartened as they were crossing the unbroken prairies of Iowa. He said to his young bride, “I believe I have not heard the Lord aright. He wants us to go some other place, and has intercepted us by these sicknesses. Shall we not go back?” The brave bride on her wedding tour, replied, “No, I propose that we go over and possess the land.” That was an inspiration, a challenge, a spark that ignited the zeal of the pioneer whose heart was full of passion for souls that were without salvation. They continued their journey toward the terminus of their adventure, They crossed the river at Nebraska City, then the principal settlement in the new territory, Rev, Gilt- ner entered at once upon his chosen work with great, earnestness, and soon gathered a group of people for the organization of a Pres- byterian church, and the means for the erection of a house of wor- ship. After nine years of faithful service he removed to Pawnee PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. eit Rev. Henry M. Giltner. Mrs. Henry M. Giltner. City in 1864. There he remained about twelve years, preaching in school houses and private homes until another edifice for the con- gregations could be erected. After twelve years pioneer work in and about Pawnee, he located at Aurora, where he spent the remain- der of his life, excepting three years spent in Logan County with his sons, caring for his invalid wife, who died there January 19, 1893. Rev. Giltner died at Aurora April 7, 1903. The foundation of the Presbyterian church having been laid, other missionaries and pastors joined hands in stretching forth the curtains of their habitations; to lengthen the cords and drive their * stakes with those who had previously said, “In the name of cur God we will set up our banners here.” The tide of immigrat’on began to turn in favor of the new territory. The prairies began to be convert- ed into a beautiful landscape of broad undulating fields of waving grain; of acres upon acres of corn; of field products, varied and many. Life was added to the scene by lowing herds, the bleating sheep. Life became hallowed. Gradually the sub-domiciles became cellars; and basements for more dign’fied quarters. Stately trees waved their welcome to the weary wanderer seeking shelter from the heat of the day. The little school houses, that have become the most val- ued possessions of the state, were here and there in ev dence with unfurled banners of the Stars and Stripes. Houses of worship be- gan to attract the Sp ritual minded immigrant. In the General Assembly minutes of 1862 the church of Neb- raska City is the only church in Nebraska Territory reported and was then in the Des Moines Presbytery. At a meeting of Glenwood, Iowa, the Presbytery of Missouri River was formed. There were thirteen churches. Two of them being in Nebraska: Nebraska City, Rev. Henry M. Giltner, ‘pastor, and the Nebraska City German - church, Rev. C. H. Heckman, pastor. 33 THESIS PORVEO Re DE Rev. Joel Warner. Alanson T. Wood. The Rev. Joel Warner, son-in-law of Father William Hamilton, came to Nebraska Territory in August, 1865. He taught the Belle- vue school the following winter and the Co'umbus school the nxt year. He was appointed as Government teacher for the Omaha In- dians by President Ulysses Grant, serv'ng in this capacity for four years, when he was called to become County Sup?rintendent of the public schoo's of Burt County. He was enrolled as a member of the Synod in 1876. Rev. Warner has served the churches o: the Nebraska Synod the greater part of forty-eight years. At this writ- ing he is past eighty-five years of age, on the Honorable Retired Roll, living ‘n Hooper, Nebraska. After having lived together with his wife for fifty-five years, she passed to her reward, September twenty-eighth, 1923, The Rev. Alanson T. Wood came to Nebraska in the fall of 1869, commiss‘oned by the Home Mission Board, and began preach- ing at Helena, Tecumseh and Elk Creek. At Helena a lot was do- nated for the proposed church edifice and one lot to be owned by Rev. ‘Wood. The church was erected, which became the center of a group of preaching po'nts. Preaching-appointments were made un- PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 39 der large trees on the bank of the river, also in the homes of John Wilson, on Turkey Creek; Harrison Curtis, on Coon Creek; a school house at Rock Ford, of the Nemaha, and in one near David Living- ston. These points were from four to eight miles from Helena in all var’ous directions. The Helena church became the forerunner of the present Hopewell church, in Otoe County. He preached in the court house in Tecumseh and various school houses in Johnson County, thus extending Mission Field cver a territory of thirty miles in length. The Helena church, in later years, was sold to the Meth- odists, and moved some six miles southwest to the vicinity of Smart- ville. Rev. Wood moved to Falls City and was the first pastor of the Presbyterian church there. The first services were held in the Court House and later in the Episcopal church chapel. He also sup- plied Salem, and held services in a school house south of town, and northwest in what was known as the Hall neighborhood, which was near the present town of Verdon. Trying days came upon this earnest and untiring Missionary at Falls City. He had raised funds to build a church. A lot was purchased and the lumber was on the ground when his wife was taken ill while Rev. Wood was at- tending Presbytery at Beatrice, in 1873, the year of the Easter bliz- zard. She died before the absent husband could be not’fied of her ill- ness. This caused the family to be scattered and the faithful minister resigned his pastorate and went to Beloit, Kansas. His son, Elder D J. Wood, is today a member of the Session of the Fairbury Pres- byterian church. He is also the chairman of the Presbytery’s Com- m'ttee on Ministerial Relief and Sustentation. On April 30th, 1869, Presbytery met in Sioux City, Iowa, where Rev. Cleland Elliott and Rev. Sheldon Jackson held that famous prayer meeting on the bluff just outside of the city. The bluff was called “Prospect Hill,’ near the grave where Mr. Floyd, who was on the Lewis and Clark expedition to the Pacific and where since the fine monument has been erected—on Floyd River. From the named pont these pioneers could see Iowa, Nebraska and the Dakotas: and in vision Wyoming, Arizona and New Mexico. And there they pledged themselves as pioneer missionaries. The Rev. Sheldon Jack- son was instrumental in organizing a number of churches in Neb- raska, as wll be noted in another chapter of this book, Robert Lucius Wheeler, D. D., from New York, crossed the Mis- souri R’ver at Omaha, December 12th, 1870, joined a surveying party at Columbus, Neb., and lent a hand to the re-survey of section lines in Polk County. That winter he lived in an abandoned hunter’s dug- out on the banks of the Big Blue River just east of the Frank Hib- bler homestead. He helped to lay out the county seat of Polk Coun- 40 DT ES ET SO RS @ Pay He Robert Lucius Wheeler, D. D. Mrs. Robert Lucius Wheeler. ty, Osceola, the only resident (temporary) was a b’g rooster prairie chicken sitting on a gopher knoll. Rev. Wheeler later taught school in Washington county. In 1876 he filled an appointment at Teka- mah for the Rev. John C. Sloan, then a Deacon, and Bible school Superintendent of Clarks Presbyterian Church on Bell Creek, (now Craig). He was brought by the Session of Tekamah church to O- maha, and given licensure by Presbytery of Omaha in First Church, 17 Dodge Street, Rev. George B. Stewart, D. D., pastor, Sept. 1876, and directed by H. M. Committee to go to Ponca, with the counties of Dixon, Dakotah, and Cedar as a parish, to live at Ponca. Rev. Wheeler began work in Sept. 1876, as d'rected remaining until sent by Dr. John Ha‘l, Superintendent of Assembly’s committee on Home Missions in May, 1888 to South Omaha, to take care of a group of Presbyterians he had organized in May 1887 in a school house, while attending the meeting of Assembly. at Omaha, as delegate-repre- sentative for General Assembly’s committee on Temperance, for Isaac Hayes of Pittsburg, Pa. Dr. Wheeler is pastor-emer‘tus at the present time of the R. L. Wheeler Memorial Presbyterian Church, the out-growth of the church of 1887, and the third building erected by Dr. Wheeler in South Omaha. Rev. Elmer E. Emhoff accepted a call to this church from York, Nebraska, in March. 1924. , PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 41 The Wonderful Years, “The years of God’s right hand,” as de- scribed by Dr. ‘Wheeler: from ’76 to 1888 on the north border line of the great Presbytery of Omaha, extending from South Sioux City on the east to Red Cloud’s Tepee, in the Black Hills on the West, at Pine Ridge Indian Agency. All through this border brother Wheeler did “the work of an evangelist,” on horse back, and later by “buck board.” Those were the days of “the covered wagon,” that blazed the way across Nebraska’s prairie for the Pioneer church, of which Wheeler and his wife were promoters. Dr. Wheeler, and his wife, are now 73 years of age, and great have been the changes in our Presbyterian felowship, rich and great as the Pres- byterians now are, there yet lingers a charm about the early trails of God’s elect who endured some privations, but joyed in the greater felicitations of that fealty and blood-brotherhood of the days of the pioneer cabin. Men who took joyfully “the spoiling of their goods,” by Indians, grasshoppers, hail-storms and prairie fires. They endur- ed the pangs of homesickness, that they might leave a “better in- heritance” to the sons of Joshua, as they press forward to God’s promised land of tomorrow. Our God has so ordained it—so shail TE bey The Nebraska Ministers and churches as given in the Minutes of 1870 are as follows: In the Presbytery of Omaha, ENTE O11 figs SULEELCE AIT aye aetnae se eect eget Schuyler, S.S. BEV RATS NT Malate VV CUOICL Sao ys x een eat ane ae ie ne ne tote Héelenay.s\S: joie Vies ReebiestsS Siupteress (225 = weer SR seer 22 Decatur. SiS: Ji@iain Jy) Gage (Ciaran, INGloie,) ee Cincinnati es.o: Reus rie bay CIN Gill ms 54), Meee se gee ace ee a Beatrice, S.S. leseaiaveiisy IMI: IDR ian sw \iel eee Syasyas a sastih-wtuee eens teens Omaha Second, SS. The Presbytery of Omaha also included three ministers and five churches in Iowa, to which Synod the Presbytery belonged. In 1871 Rev. James D. Kerr was at Nebraska City in charge of the church, which had 140 members, Rev. John T. Baird at Brown- ville with 91 members, Rev. Bnejamin F. McNeill at Beatrice with 18 members, Rev. Daniel W. Camerin at Plattsmouth with 64 mem- bers, Rev. Jeremah B. Jong at Tekamah with 15 members, Rev. John Wallace at Silver Creek, Rev. Charles H. Heckman was at Salt Creek and Rey. Harlan Page Peck at Lincoln, where he organized the First Church. The first church organizations were connected with those in South-western Iowa, and in Presbyteries known as Council Bluffs, organized in 1856; Omaha Presbytery, organized in 1858; Missouri River Presbytery, organized in 1862; and the Omaha New School, organized in 1867. After the reunion of the Old and New School Assemblies in 1870 the Presbyteries of Missouri River, old school, 42 RE Ee tS © RY eGo bbe and the Omaha new school, were united July 15, 1870, under the name of Missouri River. The territory covered by this Presbytery includ- ed the entire state of Nebraska, together with Wyoming, Montana, and Utah. At a meeting of the Synod of Iowa South, October 1872, the Presbytery was divided into three Presbyteries, Council Bluffs, Omaha, and Nebraska City. The Presbytery of Omaha included all the territory north of the Platte river: The Presbytery of Nebraska City included all the ter- ritory south of the Platte river. In 1873 the Presbytery of Kearney was constituted, including all the territory west of the east line of Nuckolls, Clay, Hamilton, Boone and Antelope Counties. The churches and ministers constituting the Presbytery of Neb- raska City in 1873 were, Churches: Nebraska City, Beatrice, Ebe- nezer, Plattsmouth, Summit, Salem, Brownsville, T.incoln, Tecum- seh, Helena, Simeon, Falls City, Seward, Ulysses, Pleasant Prairie, Fairmont, Alexandria, Fairbury, Peru, York, Pawnee City, Humboldt, Meridian, Marietta, Swan Creek, Wahoo, Highland, Luicville, Hope- well, Momence, and Glengary. Only seventeen of the thirty-one named churches are still existing. The Rev. Sheldon Jackson, D. D. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 43 Ministers members in 1873: Nelson C. Robinson, William T. Bartle, Henry M. Giltner, James D. Kerr, John T. Baird, Albanus S, Powel, George B. Smith, France's M. Hickok, H. B. Cunningham, D. D., John B. Linslea, David B. Fleming, George J. Schultz and Fran- cis X. Miron. The churches and ministers constituting thte Presbytery of Oma- ha in 1873 were, Churches: Omaha First, Blackbird Hills, Florence, West Point, Wisner, Decatur, Lyons, Darly Branch, Ponca, Elk Val- ley, Columbus, Madison, Tekamah, Belle Creek, Schuyler, Bellevue, Papillion, Fremont and Omaha Central. 15 of the 19 are on the roll. Ministers: George D. Stewart, D. D., Simion Teck, William Hamilton, William McCandlish, Alpha Wright, George L. Little, John M. Peebles, ‘Walter H. Clark, Abner D. Chapman, Joseph M. Wilson, Alex S. Foster, Jeremiah B. Long and J. C. Sloan. The churches and ministers constituting the Presbytery of Kear- ney in 1873 were, Churches: Kearney Junction, Hastings, Aurora, Gibbon, North Platte, Plum Creek, Overton, Wood River, Grand Is- land, Verona, Lone Tree. Ministers: Nahum Gould, George W. Newell, James A. Griffes, George A. Hutchison, Warren Norton and Charles S. Marvin. Overture to General Assembly Asking for the Organ za- tion to be Known aS the Synod of Nebraska. Nebraska City, Nebraska, October first, 1874. In the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A. which held its session in St. Louis, Missouri, May, 1874, “The Committee on the polity of the Church presented their report, which was adopted, and is as follows: Overtures Number 10, 11, 12 and 13 from the Presbyteres of Omaha, Nebraska City, and Kearney, pray- ing to be constituted a Synod to be called the Synod of Nebraska.” The Committee recommended that their petition be granted, and that the time of the first meeting of the Synod be the first Thursday in October, One Thousand Eight Hundred and Seventy-four (1874.) at seven o'clock P.M., in the First Presbyterian Church of Nebraska City. That the Rev. Nahum Gould preach the sermon, and preside at the organ‘zation of the Synod, until a Moderator be chosen; or, in case of his absence, or inability to act, the oldest minister present. In accordance with the above order, the Synod of Nebraska met in the First Presbyter’an Church of Nebraska City, Neb., October Ist. 1874, at 7 o’clock P. M., and was opened with a sermon by Rey. Nahum Gould, taking his text from Hosea 8: 12, “I have written to him the great things of my law but they were counted as strange things.” Synod was then constituted with prayer by the Moderator, Rey. Nahum Gou!'d.» The rolls was called and the fo'lowing..were present: 44 THE SHISTORY! © Rte Presbytery of Kearney: Min‘sters, Nahum Gould, George W. Newell, James M. Griffes, George A. Hutchison, Warren Norton. Churches represented: Elder E. N. Lord, Kearney Junction; A. LoWigrton. Hastings: andtGer> Dicks Aurora: Presbytery of Nebraska City: Ministers, Nelson C. Robinson, William T. Bartle, Henry M. Giltner, James D. Kerr, John T. Baird, Albanus S. Powel, George B. Smith and Francis M. Hickok. Churches represented: Elders George M. Brinker, Nebraska City; J. A. Hill, Beatrice; Alevander Allen, Ebenezer; R. Moody of Perit: Presbytery of Omaha: Ministers, George D. Stewart, D. D. Churches represented, Elder J. R. Meredith, Omaha. Rev. John T. Baird, D. D., was elected Modeator, Rev. James A. Griffes, Temporary Clerk, and Elder C. P. Dick, Assistant Clerk. The Committee to nominate permanent officers nominated Rev. John T. Baird, D. D., as Stated Clerk and Treasurer. Dr. Baird was Stated Clerk of the Synod for thirty-three yeas. Having declined a re-election in 1908, the Rev. Thomas L. Sexton, D. D., of Nebraska City Presbytery, was unanimously elected as Stated Clerk and Treas- urer. In the meeting of 1908 Dr. Sexton placed in nomination the name of Rev. Julius F. Schwarz, D. D., who was elected as Stated Clerk and Treasurer of the Synod for a term of three years. The fourth term of the present Clerk and Treasurer expires at this time, completing twelve years, having just been reelected for another term of three years. MODERATORS. Year Name Place of Meeting IWC SACKS IN EVokbnents (ECronelleh (Cropaevosr ea Nebraska City isa *Reve<| olimes ee ait ee ee eee Nebraska City 1 Somme eve George DS tewart Dae) eer First Church, Lincoln 1876 Rev; "Georses WANe well ca Sea. First Church, Omaha Lich Saal eaies Ate wanes) IDE Wccitics IDE. ID ees ee ee Fairmont 1Si8 Ret | Awe us tus AB OO wit ee, ee eee ren eee Hastings 1379 Reveal enya ies Galt eins |) gel) yee First Church, Omaha ASSO Reva Ath errie Hemel arial ll 1p bia ye eee ne eee eee eee Brownville AUSSI set R eves oshila etal eps pecan ee eee ee cee oe eee Grand Island 18S82m Reve. Georses lbs Crisctiian. 1) sr ])) aeeeeenenee First Church, Omaha 18S83eetRev.s)ohteebl Emin es) ee 4 eee ee ee eee York 1884 =*Rey, Edward Sle Dodderees ==) eee Hastings acfopay | ARen i Vachon aS lGvenjoplle ID) IDS pss ee Central City 1886. *Rev, William: J; HarshasD Dee Second Church, Omaha ASS7= et Rey, le rederick s|Ohnsto meee eee First Church, Lincoln 1888 °*Rey,-Lhomas ‘LaiSextone DD ee ee Madison REV. JOHN T, BAIRD, D: D: REVsTHOMAS LT. SEXTON, 1DY, 3B), First Moderator. Synodical Missionary From 1886 - 1907. Stated Clerk trom 1874 to 1907. Stated Clerk from 1908 to 1910. REV. NAHAM GOULD, Convener. 46 CELE HS 150 i ao Emo bl 1889. *Rev.. William Goin tard) =D se) ay eee perenne eee Hastings SHON wad ketone tinkeeifeni: NN AU US oleh ate: ey eee tar tase ek ee Kearney Il Ree WW ena IR Jeketavelerecyounl, ID. ID 3 Westminster, Omaha US 92a ee eiemelo ities Goel tye toleeeeese ees ee eerie First Church, Beatrice sie lca Nelkensay (hinges Sicoiny, IDL AD Sy. Neerni@keir 2 Grand Island Thos Bo Rev. Sid ward Erect ts, 0) POUR tna erect oe: geererne Grand Island 1895 = AReva eNiewell lS elo wil eukemes 1 ee een ee eer Nebraska City PROG tev, «| OHNS Cah 5 Oa ia cee ed. eee te eee ee York 1897 Rev: David'R: Kerra Pb D. D:D. (LUD First:Churehs Omana 1898 BRev: homaseG. alate: Dr 1) sre tin ete ere Ae es Hastings 1899 =* Reve Walliameaiie Porter 2h 7.5ecstcs ta ieee eee Wayne 1900) *Rev.~ John *Gilin ore se Bees tee ee eee Central City 190i-" ‘Reve Samuels Fk Sharples), Di 1) eek eee Pawnee City 19027 Sekieve Horaceaian Vb Ocie IDs) aeemmee Knox Church, Omaha IMEXORE MaalRyonis WOlmesse” Wi dias (Bier Kekeie IDE ID), ee eh ite eee York IMT IVS IRAi AG istopdate, VAN, INehig ID) ID ete A Grand Island 1905: - "Rev ie Nan< Dykes Wiehte Dae) oe are eee ee Holdrege UNO 8 ARGS) Seaeybell: TR BSI IMIS Aye oe ne Second Church, Lincoln 1907 Rev: Ssamuels datgh ts DG 1) pce ee ee ee eee eee EE ta 19085 eRevrefameso tsa Clarke os 5 act sere ete rae ieee Wayne 1909. * Rey «Janieleshas jenkins;» Pi Di De ie gee eeemeerneere Minden 1910 Rev. George F. Williams, DPD Spee eee ee eee Beatrice 1911. SRevy-*a olin sW web Tessie y20is 26. ecese tone eee North Platte 1912 * Reva BatziligpeM = Wone-s 1) ae) weet eet eee Hastings . 1913” (Rev, lohneMeGaldwell) Dye Dees North Church, Omaha 19149) Revelhionasy Ga ©sb ote wD ae) ieee eee ee eee Madison aes die INhdetinrell WK Giembn TDS IDE ee ee Aurora 1916 -;*# Rev. = Willian, Fe Coo perasee 0, vote ee ee ee Hastings 191% Reve Frederick Gra Knauer). = Dee eee eee Omaha SEH ARC breve 1B) \oynbarery JOY IBY Abdi, IDS oy ecsstesi ete Lincoln 1919 © Reve Solin’ 1s Rarer). oes eee ee ees Central City 1990S * Reve Lhomlasw Kew biiite rie) ll lp eee, eee ee Fremont IG Pah “MWe teyehyarey Jee jeiniey DL ADE oA ee Omaha 19292"" Reve Thomas: haB. Smitha DD ee ee ee York 1923\.- ‘Rev. “Georet abe ewell\ sD] Dae ae eee Kearney STATED CLERKS. *Rev.: John Tit Baird seb) ee eae eee ee 1874-1907 aU niga AMeKapaneic: AWs) Ss quero IDE AD) Oe aor ee 1908-1910 Revie juliussR eS chiwarz el) > ree oe eer eee ee ee 1911- *Deceased. PRESBYTERIAN CHURUH IN NEBRASKA. 47 OTHER PRESBYTERIES ORGANIZED. The three Presbyteries with which the Synod began her organized of ‘“ life multiplied into six as “the Lord added to the Church daily such ” as should be saved The Presbytery of Kearney was divided into two Presbyteries in the year 1881; that part lying north of the Platte river retaining the name; and the territory south of the Platte being called the Presbytery of Hastings. But the churches continued to grow, and the division did not long suffice the growing needs of the Presbyterian household of faith. The territory occup‘ed by the pres- byteries of Omaha and Kearney was too large for the convenience and comfort of its members. It was decided to re-adjust presbyteri- al lines and add still another name to the Synodical roll. This change was ordered at a meeting of Synod in 1884; and the next year the good mother entered upon the birth-roster of her children that “most euphon‘ous and beautiful of all her family names,’ Nio- biraras And still the lines were extended. In the year 1893 the Synod ordered the erection of another Presbytery in the northwestern part of the state, which was enrolled the following year by the name of Box Butte, with a constituency of six ministers and seventeen churches. The bounds of the six preslhyteries at the present time are as follows, (Minutes of Synod page 35, 1911.) The Presbytery of Box Butte shall cons’st of all the ministers and churches within the counties of Sioux, Scottsbluff, Banner, Kim- ball, Dawes, Box Butte, Morrill, Cheyenne, Sheridan, Garden and Deuel. The Presbytery of Hastings shall consist of all the ministers and churches within the counties of Perkins, Chase, Dundy, Lincoln, south of forty-one degrees latitude, Hayes, Hitchcock, Frontier Red- willow, Gosper, Furnas, Phelps, Harlan Kearney, Franklin, Adams, Webster, Hamilton, Clay, Nuckolls, and that portion of Dawson and Hall Counties, south of the Platte River. The Presbytery of Kearney shall consist of all the ministers and churches within the counties of Grant, McPherson, Keith, Hooker, Thomas, Logan, Lincoln, north of forty-one degrees meridian lati- tude, Blaine, Lup, Custer, all of Dawson and Hall counties north of the Platte River, Garfield, Valley, Sherman, Buffalo, Wheeler, Gree- ley, Howard, Boone, Nance and Merrici. The Presbytery of Nebraska City shall consist of all the minis- ters and churches within the counties of York, Seward, Lancaser, Cass, Filmore, Saline, Thayer, Jefferson, Gage, Otoe, Johnson, Paw- nee, Nenaha and Richardson. *eyseiqaN jo pouds jo deyy MO7UMOZY MIOINILIN omwsINe QUIDIY = ALMAGS AKT L | QI OTFINY PRES BY LERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA? 49 The Presbytery of Niobrara shall consist of all the ministers and churches within the counties of Cherry, Keyapaha, Bown, Rock, Boyd, Holt, Knox, Antelope, Cedar, Perce, Madison, Wayne, Stan- ton, Dixon, Dakota and that portion of Thurston west of the Chicago, St. Paul, Minn. and Omaha Railroad track. The Presbytery of Omha shall consist of all the ministers and churches within the counties of Platte, Polk, Colfax, Butler, Cuming, Dodge, Saunders, all of Thurston east of the Chicago, St. Paul, and Omaha Railroad track, Burt, Washington, Douglas and Sarpy. SYNODICAL MISSIONARIES APPOINTED. In 1872 the Rev. Nelson C. Robinson was appointed by the Board of Home Missions, under the title of synodical missionary, to superintend the mission work of the state, including the gathering and organizing of churches, and securing pastors and missionaries for the ever-increasing demands of the fields. He continued in this office, doing faithful and efficient work till his lamented death in 1876. Rev. James D. Kerr. The growth of existing churches and the organization of new ones was seriously impeded by drouth and the ravages of grass- hoppers from 1874-1876. When his successor, the Rev, James D. Kerr, came into office, July 1st, 1876, he found but little opportuni- ty to do more than care as best he could for the churches that were 50 DRE ITS TORY. 0) Hiei ie having a hard struggle to maintain life. The condition of the people in worldly estate was not flattering, for most of them were only be- ginning to lay foundations for future homes. This crisis caused the tide of immigration, which had increased rapidly for a few years, to check. In 1878 the tide began to turn in our favor; so that when in that year the Rev. George L. Tittle began his work as synodical missionary he found the people pouring into Nebraska by tens of thousands; and a field of activity and usefulness opening before him sufficient to stimulate to the utmost exertion in the effort to supply the immigrants with the means of grace and the constituted church. This was the period of most rapid growth in the number of churches organized, being nearly one hundred during the five years of service. Rev. George T. Crissman succeeded to the office of synodical missionary in 1883, and served the synod three years in this capacity, during which time the names of forty-two new churches were added to the roll of the presbyteries. Rev. Thomas L, Sexton, D. D., was elected synodical missionary in 1886 and cointinued in the faithful discharge of his duties until October 1907, when the Rev. William H. Kearns, D. D., was elected as Superintendent of Home Missions and Synodical Evangelism. The total number of churches organized during the years of Dr. Sex- ton’s appointments as Superintendent is 148. In one year only, 1895, were there no addit:ons to the roll of thee churches; and this was due wholly to the fact that the Board of Home Missions was compelled, by its lack of finances, which would not permit any enlargement of the work. A very fitting miuute and resolutions of commendation are found in the printed minutes of Synod, page 68 and 69, 1907. A move towards self-support was made in the meeting of Synod held at St. Paul, Neb., October 1907. Steady advances were made a- long this line in a five-year Forward Move. In 1912 the Committee on Home Missions reported that $1,080.00 more had been received than used for the work in the Synod. In 1913 the same Committee reported that the Synod had sent $14,012.00 to the Home Mission Board and drew for the work in the Synod $11,861.00, leaving a bal- ance in favor of the Synod $2,151.00, PASTOR-EVANGELISTS OR DISTRICT MISSIONARIES. The Rev. Robert N. Adams, D. D., who in 1907 became Field Secretary under the Board of Home Missions for the District of the Northwest, originated the plan of pastor-evangelists which was used throughout the Synod, some times called pastors-at-large. Their spe- cial work is to care for the smaller and feebler vacant churches in each Presbytery; visiting them, preaching and administering the Sacraments, and doing all in their power to make up for the lack of PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. AE regular pastoral services. The records show that in 1892-1893 the Synodical Superintendent reports the first help. He states in his report to Synod, “For the first time in our history your synodical missionary has had some efficient help in prosecuting general mis- sion work in this state. During the entire year the Rev. Julian Hatch has been employed as pastor at large in Kearney Presbytery, and since the first of January 1893 the Rev. Lester S. Boyce in the same position within the bounds of Hastings Presbytery.” Rey. John C. Sloan was employed as pastor at large within the bounds of Box Butte Presbytery in 1895. In 1911 the names of five Presbyterial pastors appear, they. are: Rey. D. W. Montgomery for the Presbytery of Box Butte, Rev. Wm. H. Cooper for the Presbytery of Hastings, Rev. N. C. Johnson for the Presbytery of Kearney, Rev. Samuel Light, D. D., for the Presbytery of Niobrara, Rev. Robert M. L. Braden, D. D., Presbytery of Omaha. In 1912 the Synod was divided in Districts. Rev. Julius F. Schwartz, succeeded Dr. Braden, deceased, in charge of the eastern part of the state embracing the Presbytery of Omaha, Nebraska City and Niobrara. In 1916 Dr. Kearns accepted the vacancy caused by the resignation of Rev. Schwarz, December 10, 1923, the late Rev. Wm. H. Kearnc, D.D., was appointed Executive Secretary and Superintendent of National Missions. The Rev. William Harris Kearns, D.D., District Field Secretary of The Board of National Missions and Superintendent of National Missions of the Synod of Nebraska, died suddenly on Tuesday even- ing, June tenth, 1924. Dr. Kearns was on his way to the railroad station when the car began to skid. He stepped out of the car and while walking to a nearby residence, realizing his serious heart con- dition, he collapsed and died. This occurred near his home. He had been booked for an address at a Bible Conference in Scotts-Bluff om Wednesday evening. Instead of hearing the address Dr. Robert W. Taylor conducted a Memorial Service and paid tribute to him whom God had translated to higher realms. Rev. William Harris Kearns was born December 14, 1865, in Juanita County, Penn. He graduated from Parsons College in 1888, and from theMcCormick Seminary in 1891. He was licensed by the Presbytery of Iowa in 1890 and ordained in 1891 by the Presbytery of Iowa City. He received the degrees of B. A:, M. A., and Doctor of Divinity. His first charge was at Davenport, Iowa, Mt. Ida, from 1891 to 1894; Cherokee, Iowa, 1894-1897: Jerseyville, Illinois, 1897- 1900; Beatrice, Nebraska, 1900-1908. The Synod of Nebraska dis- covered in Dr. Kearns marked executive ability and chose him as a successor to the late Dr. Thomas L. Sexton, to the office of Super- intendent of Home Missions and Evangelism from 1908 to 1914, at Rev. Robert M. L. Braden, D. D. Rev. Nelse C. Johnson Pastor Evangelist, District Missionary + November 6, 1912. + February 9, 1918. Rev. William H. Cooper, W. W. Scott Pastor Evangelist, S. S. Missionary + August 26, 1923. + June 1916. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 53 which time the Home Mission Board commissioned him as _ their Field Secretary from 1911-1916. In 1916 he succeeded Rev. Dr. Schwarz as Executive Secretary of Home Missions and Evangelism of the Synod of Nebraska. In connection with the said office he re- ceived the appointment of Secretary of the Transportation Bureau in 1916. In 1920 a third appointment was arrayed to the two already named. He was chosen by the New Era Committee as District Secretary. Rev. Benamin A. Fye succeeded Rev. Montgomery in the Box Butte district in 1918. Rev. Robert W. Taylor, D. D., filled the va- cancy, caused by the withdrawal of Rev. Fye. Dr. Taylor was ap- pointed as Western Fiecid Secretary December 10, 1923. Rev. Elis M. Steen accepted the appointment of the Central Dis- trict, in 1918. Rev. Steen accepted a call to Auburn, Neb. February 1, 1924. Rev. B. M. Long, D. D. 54 ARs Bie BESMY OF eGR oa 8 5 WE Rev. John W. Press!y was appointed Assistant to Dr. W. H. Kearns in 1918, in charge of the Eastern District. Rev. Pressly was appointed as Eastern Field Secretary, December 10, 1923. In 1913 the Rev. B. M. Long, D. D., was chosen as Superinten- dent of Evangelism, serving in this capacity until 1922. Rev. Charles F. Robel was appointed April 28, 1924, as one of the Field Workers of the Synod. J % a Rev. William H. Kearns, D. D. Synodical Superintendent of National Missions. + June 10, 1924. Rev. John W. Pressly Eastern Field Secretary. Rev. Charles F. Robel Rev. Robert W. Taylor, D. D. Assisiant Field Worker. Western Field Secretary. 56 TE Weni SOR Y.O Hebi REV. JAMES B. CURRENS, D. D: H. R. Synodical Superintendent of S. S. A Homestead Cottage, School and Chapel. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 57 SUNDAY SCHOOL MISSIONARIES. Another group of laborers employed by the Presbyterian Church in the development of her life is that of Sunday school missionaries who gave their entire time to the work of establishing and maintain- ing Sunday schools in communities which are for the most part with- out churches and destitute of all religious privileges. In many cases these little schools offer the only opportunities for religious instruc- tion in the communit’es where they are established; and they be- come centers of moral and spiritual blessing, the value of which cannot be too highly estimated. And one evidence of this is seen in the fact that many of our churches today have been organized as the direct fruits of these Mission schools. The leader in this interesting and hopeful field of Christian effort is the Rev. James B. Currens, D. D., who for many years has been the superintendent of the work, and whose name deserves honorable mention in this connection, With a zeal that has never waned, and a patience that has never flagged, he has traveled all over the state through summer’s heat and winter’s cold, directing the work of many students, lay workers and others under his care, and himself seeking out destitute regions, planting schools and encouraging local officers and teachers in their humble efforts to instruct the children and youth in the knowledge of the word of God. The Pioneer Sabbath School Missionary was commissioned February 1889, coming from Chicago and locating at Crawford, Neb- raska, as his headquarters, Two years later Rev. Currens encountered great hardships. From 1891 to 1893 an unceasing drought prevailed. This drought was followed by hard winters. It was during this time the Missionaries appealed for help. Carloads of food and clothing were shipped to the scenes of poverty. The Sabbath School Mis- sionaries spent their time distributing food and clothing, After three years drought, a deep snow had covered the State. Rev. Currens arranged with the miller at Crawford to supply the homesteaders with seed. It was the yield of these crops that helped to build three Presbyterian churches. Ten churches were built along the Burlington and Minn. R. R. from Alliance to Newcastle. One was a log church, built from logs which the Superintendent of Mis- sions helped to cut down and drove the oxen that hauled the logs to the nearest railroad station, not yet located at the time. The land had not yet been surveyed and no school districts organized. Rev. James A. Worden, D. D., of the Sabbath School Board, sent six theological students each summer. Rev. Currens assigned them to districts and then furnished each student a pony and two- wheeled cart. The Board supplied them with Bibles and lesson helps. 58 DEE RIST ORY: Ober Hit Eight laymen, who worked under the direction of the Sabbath School Missionary, later became ordained ministers of the Gospel. A report for one year’s work shows that the men on the field organ- ized forty-three new schools and reorganized forty Sabbath Schools and visited ninety-five other Sabbath Schools under their care. Rev. James B. Currens, D. D., always had the happy disposition to aid students in pursuing their college course and in passing financial aid to them until they had finished their Seminary course. Even though placed in the Honorably Retired Roll, Father Currens is helping the Betheny Church in doing a remarkable Mission work in the city of Omaha. Rev. Charles E. Rice, pastor of Union Star church lived on a homestead as seen in the accompanying picture. He too, was for many years a Sabbath School Missionary and finally attended the Omaha Theological Seminary. He then returned to the field and built a parsonage near the Union Star church. His wife and her mother taught a private school in the church about three years, From this school at least twelve young people became public school teach- ers. The public school was held in the log school-house shown on the picture, which lasted only seven months. The ladies then con- tinued a private school and fitted the young people for teaching. This section of the chapter would be quite incomplete if we omit- ted the story of a missionary in the sand hills of Nebraska. Nota minister or a college man, but a lawyer. A humble man who did a marvelous work in a needy field. We take pleasure in relating the interesting story as it comes from the pen of Rev. Currens. Mr. W. W. Scott, the subject of our sketch, was born on a farm near Cadiz, Harrison County, Ohio, September 24, 1856. His father came from Belfast, Ireland, at the age of 19. His mother was born in Cadiz. There were ten children in the family. They were mem- bers of the Notingham Presbyterian Church, strict observers of the Sabbath, conscientious attendants at Church and careful instruc- tors of their children in the catechism. His father died and his widow moved to Knox County, Illinois, in 1870. They moved to Seward County, Nebraska, in 1879, and settled near what is now Tamora. They united with the Presbyterian church of Seward under the care of Rev. E. Benson. The eldest son, Thomas, studied for the ministry and was for several years a successful pastor and died at Champaign, Illinois. Another son studied with the ministry in view, but failed in health and had to go on a farm near Tamora where he died, leaving a wife and one son. This son has recently graduated from Park College, Missouri. When Willie, the subject of this story, was nine years old, he had a spell of spinal-meningitis which left him blind, almost speech- less and: for~fifteen-years-he-was-in-darkness, a weak, dependent in- PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 59 valid. This was at the period when he should have received his edu- cation, but his sickness deprived him of this privilege and he was nev- er in school a day. Though not in schcol he was in a devout Chris- tian home. The Family Altar, the Catechism, the careful Sabbath observance, the regular conscientious church attendance in all kinds of weather at Seward, seven miles from home, the religious conver- sations, private devotions and careful living in such a home with the special affection of a fond mother for her invalid child all in- dicate that he did not grow up without instruciton. Though not of the secular school, he had instruction of the best kind,—the school- ing for a Christian Home. Sheltertd from outside worldly influences, which so often counteract home instruction, pervert the life, and de- feat the parents in their efforts to raise their children for God he grew up childlike in disposition, fixed jn religious principles, and strong in faith. Mr. Scott became a Christian at a very early age, but made a public profession when about sixteen and united with the Presbyter- ian church of Onda, Illinois. During his fifteen years of darkness he spent much meney in visiting the best specialists in Cleveland, Chicago, Omaha, Lincoln, and Denver for his spine and eyes. He spent two summers in Color- ado at Denver, Colorado Springs and Manitou and some time in New Mexico and Minnesota in search of health. His spinal trouble re- covered so that he was comparatively free from pain and his eye- sight was restored in one eye, so he could read a little and see to walk and drive. In June, 1881, he assisted in the organizat‘on of his first Sunday school and began his active Christian work. Being deeply impressed that God had given him back his eye-sight and comparative free- dom from spinal trouble in answer to his special prayer, he was anx- ious to do something in his humble way to advance God’s Kingdom and help his fellowmen. The great Christian Endeavor movement was then new and just starting, and Mr. Scott rode all over Seward county urging it upon ministers and young people and was the prin- cipal mover in the organization of many societies in that county. He bought and distributed everywhere a large number of Bibles and Testaments and gave away to special workers many teachers’ Bibles. He subscribed for a large number of religious papers for young people and families where he wanted to help them and make them helpers of the Lord’s work. He had done this work so successfully and so unselfishly that his friends secured him an appontment as Sunday school missionary for Kearney Presbytery under our Presbyterian Board of Sunday School Work, and as Superintendent of that work in the state. I suggested that he come to North Platte as a convenient center to 60 THR EHS? ORY 2@ Berit reach a large and needy field occupied by no other missionary. He came and was for sixteen years in the employ of our Sunday school Board, the same faithful, unselfish and untir‘ng worker that he had been in Seward County, not sparing himself or his money, riding all over these wild sand hills, winter and summer, hunting up the poor and needy, minister'ng as he could to their physical and spiritual wants. He has distributed more clothing and food among troubled, talked personal religion to more individuals, addressed more the poor, prayed in more homes, visited and comforted more sick and public schools, given away more Bibles and Testaments, organized more Sunday Schools, gathered into them more neglected children, set more idle Christians to work teaching the Bible and put a place of public worship in reach of more negiected people than any otner man I know of in Nebraska or any other state. Mr. Scott died at Tamora, Nebraska, June 1916. The Rev. Nels C. Johnson belonged to the self-sacrificing men on the mission field. He was ordained to the Gospel ministry by the Presbytery of Kearney on the tenth day of April, 1902, in which Pres- bytery he served the Church up to the time of h’s death, which oc- curred in Kearney, February ninth, 1918. As a field missionary of the Synod he was peculiarly adapted to his commission, and organized many schools and churches. No man was at all times more welcome as a guest in the homes of the communities where he had been in- strumental in effecting organizations than was Rev. Johnson. The Sunday school is the strong arm of the church. Out from its effective organization and efficient Bible study and teaching must come, to a larger degree, our future church members. The Sabbath School Board introduced a new policy in 1910 by placing increased emphasis upon the educational features of the church, Educational superintendents were appointed in some of the synods whose important work it is to raise the standards and in- crease the efficiency of our schools. In April 1911 Rev. Ralph H. Houseman was employed as the Superintendent of the Educational work. His successor was Prof. Orlin H. Venner, Ph. D., who died June 22, 1920. MISSION WORK AMONG THE FOREIGNERS. Germans;— Among the names which will ever be recorded in the history of the Synod and held in affection by the German immigrants and pioneers, settlers and farmers, are the names of ministers who did not hesitate to choose their lot among those who were without spiritual consolation, support and guidance. As early as 1850 Rev. Conrad H. Heckman was sent by the Pres- byterian Synod of Missouri to Nebraska to gather the German speak- ing people and organize them into congregations. Upon leaving PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 61 Missouri he gave up his home at St. Joseph, with all its comforts and conveniences, and went forth, he knew not whither. Beginning at Mud Creek near Nebraska City he visited the German communities and effected quite a number of organizations. In 1862 the names of the following churches appear: Nebraska City German, Nemaha River German, Weeping Water. In 1863 three additional organiz- ations are enrolled, Plattsmouth German, Dakota City and Lewisville. Since men could not be found to shepherd the flocks these organiza- tions began to scatter. Graduates from the German Presbyterian Theological Seminary of Dubuque, Iowa, a school which had been called into existence by Rev. Adrian Van Vliet in 1852 were ready to enter the field of opportunity and meet the crying need felt in the dearth of the German ministry. Rev. John Berk. The Rev. John Berk, who had served the church at Rockville, Wisconsin, from 1866 until he was prevailed upon to visit Saltillo Township in 1877, was instrumental in effecting the organization in 62 THESIS LORS © ROLE the named prec'nct. He accepted a call to the new congregation in 1879 where there were many of his former members, who had be- come the forerunners for a colony of pioneers, and preparing the way for homesteaders who arrived soon after from Illinois and Missouri. Rev. Berk was not only the real founder of Presbyterian- ism among the German-speaking people, but was recognized as one ,’ of the oustanding and “strong” ministers, and authority on all ec- clesiastical and theological questions. He served as pastor of the Hickman. Presbyterian church up to the date of his demise which occurred September 23, 1898. Rev. Jacob Brinkema was another one of the untiring pioneer missionaries, who was instrumental in organizing several German Rev. Jacob Brinkema. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA, 63 churches that are still standing out as monuments of a man who endured many hardships. The Hanover church, near Glenville, Neb. and the Rosemont churches owe their existence to Rev. Brinkema. A church had also been called into existence at Ayr, Gothenburg and Thayer but these have become starting points for other denomina- tions. The Rev. John A. Bardill accepted a call to become the pastor of a new German organization in Kearney, Nebraska in 1889 where he did successful: mission-work to May 16, 1890 when he took up the pastorate at the Buffalo Grove German church and continued for more than eight consecutive years. It was there where he passed to his reward, November 24, 1898. Rev. Adolph Krebs. The Rev. Adolph Krebs came to the rescue of the Campbell church, which had been organized in 1889. A drought had greatly discouraged the people of that community and the church was having a hard struggle to maintain life. The perseverance together with 64 SHE HISTORY OFelHsE much self-sacrifice on the part of the earnest pastor tided them over into the years of favor and fortune. The German churches at Hastings and Meridian are also the outgrowth of these early efforts on the part of the missionaries above named. The Hanover, Hastings and Rosemont churches were, upon their own request, transferred to the Presbytery of George, lowa, belonging to the Synod of the West (German). Bohemians— The first marked influx of Bohemian immigration occurred in 1869, when a colony of homesteaders acquired land pos- sessions in Colfax County, Nebraska. Soon other colonies followed coming from Iowa and directly from Europe. The Bohemians have been attracted to Saunders, Butler, Douglas, Thurston and the first named County. Many of these early settlers brought their Bibles, songbooks and good sermon books with them. Having no minister they gathered in school houses and homes where devotional ser- vices were held. The sacraments were administered by neighboring ministers, preferably German, since most of them could speak or at least understand the language, having acquired its knowledge in the Austrian army. They were at sea in the matter of denominational affiliation and were at a loss to know where to find a Spiritual center. The first minister that visited them was Rev. Kun from Ely, Iowa, the pastor of an Independent congregation since 1859, The surviving members of the various churches were so deeply impressed by visits of this minister that they frequently relate the delightful gatherings pre- sided over by the fatherly Pastor. Later the Home Mission Board commissioned the Rev. Vincent Pisek, pastor of a church in New York City, to spend at least one summer in the West and visit all the places inhabited by Bohemian Protestants. At the same time the Congregational Board sent Rev. H. A. Shafler to pursue a like mission. It caused divisions in the communities, some were of Presbyterian persuasion, others otherwise. The first Bohemian minister living in Nebraska was Rev. Anton Paulu who lived in Omaha from there going occasionally to Wahoo to minister to a newly organized church there in 1890. Through the earnest efforts of Rev. William J. Harsha, D. D., pastor of the First church of Omaha, the Rev. John Pipal was called in 1891, who located in Omaha. From this center he visited the Bohemian colonies and succeeded in gathering a number of congregations, organizing them into Presbyterian churches. The following organizations were en- rolled, Bethlehem, Omaha in 1890; Zion in 1895; Weston in 1896; PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 65 Wahoo in 1897; Humboldt in 1897; New Zion Bohemian, 1898; Mor- avian Behemian ,South,Omaha, 1902; Prague, 1907; John Huss Bo- hemian of Thurston, 1911. The Clarkson Zion church erected their first church in 1889, which has recently yielded its site to a new, modern equipped edifice at a cost of forty-five thousand dollars, Rev. Boden A. Fillipi has served this church since 1914. He has been in Nebraska since 1906 coming from Uniontown, Pa., accepting a call to the Bohemian church of Omaha. Rev. Anton Svoboda and Rev. Frank Novak were earnest pio- neers among the Bohemians. In the records of the Presbytery of Omaha the following was adopted: “Moved that the Presbytery put in the minutes a record of the action of the General Assembly in setting off the Bohemian pastors and churches formally in our boundaries into the Bohemian Presbytery to be formed, and that we extend to our brethren our sympathy in their efforts and our hearty Godspeed in their work.” “We hereby call attention to the erection of the Presbytery of Cen- tral West Bohemian which removes from our bounds and jurisdiction the following ministers and churches, Rev. Anton Svoboda and Rey. Boden A. Fillipi; Churches: New Zion; South Omaha; Prague and Omaha Bohemian Brethren.” Dated, September 13, 1910. ; Clarkson Bohemian Church. (New) 66 PRE ES ELS CO vO et be By an action of hte General Assembly the new Presbytery was transferred to the Synod of Iowa. The Bohemian churches at the present time located in Nebraska belonging to the named Presbytery are: Churches: Membership Pastors. MewneZ, On, Clarks tigate 1926 os Bohden A. Filipi ALOT ae Aes hens ae ee a 5 ee Joseph avlik Behemian Brethren, Omaha ........ Ooeee. Vaclav Cejnar Bohetiitati rac cae eee MO eanesase Fred B. Paroulek Hiolmway TEhviSsh= SBaybbeshioyay: Sel ee A Amer: Wahoos Bohemian <2....habeeen 103 cece Tredk. B. FParoulek Members in the State. Total members in the State....664 EDUCATIONAL INTERESTS OF THE SYNOD OF NEBRASKA. The Presbyter'an Church has always and everywhere been the friend and advocate of thorough and orthodox Christian education, Recognizing the fact that learning without moral character is only a larger equipment for evil, and that good education ‘and true re- ligion must join hands to secure the best citizenship, this Synod has ever been diligent according to her ability to provide Christian schools. Early Attempts to Found a College Increasing population and wealth made the possibility of an institution of learning feasible. This idea had been in the minds of many leaders since the coming of the settlers to the new prairies. At a meeting of the Old School Presbytery at Plattsmouth on Oc- tober fourth, 1859, a committee of five was appointed to consider the establishment of a Presbyterial Academy, Proposals from various towns were received. In 1868 a Presbyterian school was founded at Nebraska City; but, being hard pressed for funds in the new land, it was soon abandoned. As early as 1874 menriorials came to the Synod of Nebraska from the Presbytery of Kearney with reference to a school of such character to be opened at Hastings, A propo- PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 67 sition was also sent from Beatrice. A special comnuttee was appoint- ed for the purpose of looking into this matter, and they recommended that a vote of thanks be recorded and extended to the people of Hastings for their desire to have the proposed school under Pres- byterian care; but the Synod, for financial reasons, was not willing to assume the responsibility at the present tine. A promise of mor- al support was given the venture. Various overtures were received up to 1879, when the following was presented to the Committee on Bills and Overtures: “The Presbytery of Kearney is without the facilities for edu- cation in institutions under its care and that some of the higher institutions in the state are under influences which give no assur- ance of Christian training, and deeply feeling the need of an insti- tution under care of Synod, respectfully memorializes the Synod to take into serious consideration the advisability and feasibility of taking immediate steps looking towards the founding of an inst tu- tion of learning within its bounds and under its care.” A special committee was appointed to take the matter in charge and to receive such propost'tions as the friends of such an enterprise would submit. Synod met at Bellevue in 1880 and the special com- mittee reported an offer from Beatrice of $12,000.00, including twenty acres of land, for a college site; an offer from Hastings of $12,000.00 in cash and lands, the land to be twenty acres, with building material valued at $1,000.00; an offer from Bellevue of buildings valued at $5,000.00, cash $5,000.00, one hundred acres of land and 1,000 to 1,500 lots. The committee recommended that the school be located at Belle- vue, provided the addition of $10,000.00 cash or pledges could be se- cured by September 1, 1880. Assurances were given that this be done and the recommendation to locate the college at Bellevue was a- dopted, October 16, 1880. Mr. Henry T. Clarke gave his financial support and enabled the Board to erect “Clarke Hall.” at a cost of $20,000.00. The corner stone of this building was laid July fourth, 1881 and the dedication came the following year on September ninth. The College opened September tenth, 1883, and classes were held in the village church and in other town buildings. Rey. W. J. Bollman was acting President, and was assisted by Rev. F. S. Blainey and Prof. C. M. Des Voleto. On September 9, 1884, Rev. W. W. Harsha, D. D., took charge of the College as the first President. Upon Dr. Harsha’s resigna- 68 TH Bt ORY. © Retr iton June 14, 1888, Dr. Francis S. Blaney assumed the duties of act- ing President. Rev. David R. Kerr, D. D., took the oath of office as President in 1890. Under this administration Finley Hall was built. When Dr. Kerr resigned in 1904 five new buildings, well furnished, and other substantial improvements, graced the College campus. Rey. Robert M. Stevenson, D. D., acted as President until Dr. G. Harlow Lampen was chosen, who entered upon his duties Decem- ber eighth, 1904; but resigned the following year. At the commencement of the college year in 1905, Rev. Guy W. Wadsworth, D. D., assumed the duties of President, and remained with the College three years. In the summer of 1908 Dr. S. W. Stookey was chosen by the ‘Trustees as President. Rev. Henry Hubbard Maynard, D. D., was chosen Vice-President and Financial Secretary of the College. The adjourned meeting of the Synod at Kearney, December seventh, 1909, declared by a unanimous vote the merger of Bellevue and Hastings Colleges at Hastings. It soon became evident however, that this merger was impossible of accomplishment owing to the failure of the institutions to agree on the terms proposed in the res- olution of Synod. Hastings accepted Synodical control. Bellevue since 1910 bore no further official relation to the Synod of Nebraska but continued as a Presbyterian college, receiving aid from the Pres- byterian College Board. Hastings College Organized The plan to establish a Presbyterian college at Hastings was first proposed in August, 1873. It was approved by the Presbytery of Kearney and the Synod of Nebraska at the first meetings of each of these two bodies held respectively in September and October. Subscriptions of money and land were obtained in Hastings and plans for the erection of a bulding were formed. Owing, however, to crop failures and the grasshopper scourge, these activities were dis- continued and nothing further was done during the next several years, The first Board of Trustees incorporated the institution as Hast- ings College, May 10, 1882, and secured an initial subscription of $10,000.00. The educational work began September 13, 1882, and has continued without interruption to the present time. Bellevue College Buildings. 70 THE HISTORY OF THE Rev. W. F. Ringland, D. D., was made president of the College in 1882. In accordance with the promise of 1874, Synod adopted the College in 1884. Following President Ringland’s resignation in 1895, Prof, W. N. Filson acted as president for one year. He was suc- ceeded by S. G. Pattison, who served four years, and was succeeded by Prof. Filson, who continued in office until 1902. [n June of that year, Rev. E. Van Dyke Wight, D. D., became President, and upon his resignation in 1907 President A. E. Turner, LL. D., assumed the executive chair. His resignation in February, 1912, left the office of President vacant until the Board of Trustees met in June following, when Prof. R. B. Crone, LL. D., was elected to the position. He took charge the following July. The Rev. John E. Farmer; D. D., was associated with Dr. Crone as Vice-President in October 21, 1919. Rev. Charles E. Kircher, D.D., was the Field Secretary. Both gave sub- stantial help in funds for the Liberty Memorial Hall. When President Crone informed the Board of Trustees of the College of his settled plan to sever his connection with the institu- tion at the close of his eighth year, in July 1920, they began to look for the best man available to take his place. Attention was direct- ed‘to/the: Rev. Calvin “Hs French, D. Di LE Dy who hadidonesa wonderful work in building and endowing the Presbyterian College at Huron, South Dakota. After an experience of twenty-five years in school and College work, President Crone, retired at his own re- quest, and since that date Dr. French has occupied the President’s chair. McCormick Hall was built 40 years ago at a cost, as shown by the ®) books, of $14,703.81. In the spring of 1883 Mr. Cyrus McCormick, Sr. gave the first $5,000.00 which enabled the Trustees to beg'n the construc- tion of this building, and, in the fail of 1884, when Dr. Herrick Johnson i} was leading in its dedication, Mr. Cy- McCormick, Jr., wired $3,000.00 more to complete payment of the bills, It | contains five class rooms and the small assembly room. Ringland Hall, named for the first president of the college, was erected in ~ 1884-85 at a ‘cost of $16,799.54. Mc Cormick Hall. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. fail Protea baerone wl salem ls 72 LHEsHISTORY, OF THE Rev. Calvin H. French, D. D. LL. D. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 73 It contains small inconvenient and inadequate offices, six class rooms, the Y. M. C. A. assembly room, locker room and shower baths, the college book store, and dormitory rooms for thirty-five boys. This building poorly constructed 40 years ago, has deteriorated through the years and it must be replaced at the earliest possible moment. When the space on the ground floor of the new Taylor Hall became avail- able the boarding depart- ment was removed to the new buliding, and the old kitchen and store rooms were fitted up for use as locker rooms and shower baths. The old dining- room became an assembly room for the Y. M. C. A. The Carnegie Library and Science Building e- rected in 1908-9 at a cost of $17,210.00 houses the li- brary of 8000 volumes, be- sides five small laborator- ies for physics, chemistry, Remiaadariatt and biology, an office for the Dean, Y. W. C. A. room, and space in which a really large and valuable biological and geological collection is piled almost layer up- on layer. Carnegie Library. Alexander Hall is one of the best buildings on the campus. It was built in 1900 at a cost of $15,145.90, and named for Mr. Samuel Alexander one of the three men who, in conversation, first suggested the idea of the college. It accommodates twenty-eight girls in com- fortable rooms on its two main. floors. In the basement are two rooms used by the department of Home Economics, besides a laun- 74 THEVHISTORYS ORS DHE dry in which the girls do their own laundry work. At an expenditure of about $1800.00 during the summer of 1922, the space on the upper floor was lighted by dormer windows let into the roof, and partitions built, providing nine good rooms and an office for the Conservatory of Music. | DOMESTIC ‘SCI- This was a building construc- ENCE COTTAGE ed for an entirely different purpose. Dr. Crone obtained possession of it and had it moved and remodeled at an expense of $7,000.00, It provides good dormitory rooms for eighteen girls. On alternate years these girls are selected from the Domestic Science courses and they obtain their practical experience by caring for the house, and, during a part of the year, preparing their own meals. THE WILLIAMS A son of Mr .L. O. Williams of Univer- BIBLE HOUSE sity Place, Nebraska, and a former student in the College, gave his life fighting in France during the World War. His father gave half the son’s war risk insurance in order to enable the College to provide a home for the Bible teacher. This house is the newest and best building on the campus. It cost $8,162.94. THE JOHNSON About twenty years ago the students under the GYMNASIUM eieadership of Mr. P. L. Johnson erected the build- ing which has served ever since as the gymnasium. It has a very good floor and has served its purpose well. It represents an ex- penditure of $4,122.91. THE HEATING The last of the e' ght buildings on the cam- PLANT pus is the little heating plant. It was also erect- ed under the direction of Mr. Johnson to whose devotion and self- denying service the college owes much. The heating equipment con- sists of one boiler with some new pumping equipment added in 1922. The original cost of the plant was about $5,000. With the new eu’ pment it is now valued at $6,811.81. Off Campus Buildings. In addition to these eight buildings the college owns a small cottage purchased several years ago at a cost of $3,600. This build- ing provides dormitory accommodation for twelve girls. At the conclusion of his administration the trustees bought, as a residence for the new president, the home owned and occupied by Dr. Crone. The purchase price was $7,500, and the prop- erty consists of a comfortable, well-built house with a large lot. Total Value of Buildings. The cost of these ten buildings in which the activities of a body of students numbering now over 600, has been as follows: PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 75 WCC eye eabvelie Ve leUN es chan an Sh ee ERE ee ho AL ee en $14,703.81 cae Saved Ibs faite 2 a CME es ne JB Me pecan ih oon or a te er Re BA 16,799.54 Gorneol eam lel lat yur meee ete er ee ke et we a Em 17,210.00 PNiesxceuIrd Clagett chill mute ney ee ea ae se LE Te eh 15,145.90 ID omiestiGks Glen Cen GOtta le Games eee eee ee ee 7,000.00 WY iibewansy [iil Valoybie- 6 a ee ee 8,162.94 A OMIOS OTM Ga y-TEL Tel S11 1 ee ean eee eee eae A oat eee et 4,122.91 lnkeeiuboter, Waiei ahs eee eee con at Oana 3 eae ee ee 6,811.84 Pak Cvile Wa COluta OC) mem tees eee ae we OI St 3,600.00 [BREST Ci ticw LO 111i mers eaeer eer eer enn wh ena 7500.00 AMG MG eS Bs Serene ee py ae ene $101,056.94 The college has graduated 169 young men and 182 young women, a total of 351. The following brief summary shows what these representatives of the institution have done: College presidents, professors and other teachers 122 Ordained ministers: Other ministers 27 Foreign Missionaries 6 Unordained missionaries Doctors, teachers and others 9 Single women 7 Wives of foreign missionaries 4 Wives of home missionaries 4 ———- Ov Married women 62 Business 30 All others 80 Total Bd Eight graduates from the College have entered bome or foreign mission work during the past year. Four, two young men and their wives, have been sent to establish a new station in the Yunnan Provy- ince, in the extreme southwestern part of Ch’na. Their station will be eight days’ travel beyond water or rail transportation, Three young men have entered home mission work and one graduate from McCormick Seminary has begun work as a Y. M. C. A. secretary. Though, thus far, we have encountered the worst pos- sible conditions there are certain signs of progress. Before his death Mr. Bissell transferred to the College fifty shares of stock in the Hord Grain Co. This stock has a par value of $5000 and a market value considerably greater. A farm was given by Miss Conway, though subject to an annuity, adds $16,000 to the as- sets of the College. Mr. Synnott who, through the Board of Christian Education, had offered $5000 towards $20,000 of additional endow- 76 THE HISCORYsOr bie ment for the Bible Chair accepts the setting aside of the Bissell stock and $10,000.00 of the valuation of the Conaway farm as meet- ing his conditions. The alumni have pledged more than $15,000 towards the $60,000 which they set as their goal for the endowment of the Janet Carpen- ter Chair of English. Hastings has raised $95,000.00 as her share in_ the campaign in addition to the $75,000 aiready given or subscribed in an earlier campaign. Rev. James B. Brown, one of the best loved men in the Synod, is meeting with a cordial response wherever he goes, and Rev. E. C. Lucas, D.D., has been secured to work with him. Liberty Memorial Hall. This great building will dominate and give dignity and character to the splend’d group of buildings which will be the material body of which Hastings College is the soul. This picture and those that follow present the dream of the outward Hastings College of the future. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. INGNEBRASKA: 77 The Pratt Memorial Chapel. A college chapel, more than any cther building on the campus should be the home of the soul of the institution. Since Hastings College stands for the things that are true, and pure, and beautiful, and eternal, this chapel will, by its symmetry and fitness, tell this story of life to countless generations of students. A splendid gift by Mrs. G. H. Pratt and her son Howard, in memory of Mr. George H. Pratt, makes this building possible. The Taylor Dormitory. The beauty and completeness of that part of this building al- ready constructed are emblematic of the kind of womanhood charac- ‘sndwed asa]]0D ssunsepy sinning PRESBY'TERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA, 79 teristic of Hastings College girls. By their great gift towards the cost of the building, Mr. and Mrs. E. G. Taylor have won not only a safe place in the hearts of the eighty girls who every year will en- joy its comfort and beauty but also the gratitude of every friend of the College. HASTINGS COLLEGE AMENDED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION. Article I The name of this corporation shall be Hastings College. Article II The purposes for which the said corporation is formed are: To establish and maintain at Hastings, in the County of Adams, in the state of Nebraska, an institution of learning, and for such purpose to take, receive, and hold by lease, gift or purchase, grant, devise or bequest, property real and personal, and to sell, condition, mortgage or otherwise dispose of the same, to sue and be sued, to serve as trustees in handling gifts and bequests, to have, use, and alter a seal, and to do everything and act and carry on every kind of operation advisable for and incidental or necessary to the main- tenance of the said educational institution, and from time to time to transact any business and carry on any operations in connection with and for the purpose of the foregoing, but not for pecuniary profit: To enter into, make, perform and carry out contracts of every kind and for any lawful purpose: To issue bonds, debentures or obligations of the corporation and, at the option of the corporation, to secure the same by mortgage, pledge, deed of trust or otherwise, and dispose of and market the same. Article III The principle place of business of this corporation shall be at Hastings, in the County of Adams, in the state of Nebraska. Article IV The duration of this corporation shall be perpetual. Article V There shall be a Board of Trustees consisting of not less than twenty seven (27) nor more than thirty six (36) members not less than five of whom shall be resident freeholders of Adams County, Nebraska, and two thirds of whom shall always be members of the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A. The Synod of Nebraska of the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A. shall be invited to nominate the trustees by classes as herein after provided. 80 THE HISTORY? Ole Tak The trustees shall be divided into three classes, the members of each class in the order of its succession to be elected each year by the Board at its stated November meeting and to hold office until their successors shall have been elected and shall have assumed the duties of their offices. The President for the time being of Hastings College shall be, ex officio, a member of the Board of Trustees in addition to those provided for in the preceding paragraphs. The names and residences of the trustees and the dates at which their terms of office shall expire shall be as follows: Terms to expire in November, 1922 Rev eeLhnomasn Gal© sboupnens!O msl): Bayard, Nebr. Edward Leavenworth Wood River, Nebr. Pee lohnsom Hastings, Nebr. Rev BaMa Long, DD: Penca, Nebr. John D. Fuller tastings, Nebr. Rev. B. M. Nyce, D. D. Lincoln, Nebr, Howard Pratt Hastings, Nebr. Rev. James B. Brown Hastings, Nebr. Rev, Calvin -H.«French, DiD;, Hastings, Nebr. Terms to expire in November, 1923 Harry L. Williams Gothenburg, Nebr. M. W .Folsom Lincoln, Nebr. Dr PGs hoote Hastings, Nebr. Edward G. Taylor Loup City, Nebr. Archie D. Marvel Hastings, Nebr. Cab VeSmith ‘ Beaver City, Nebr. Paul Rhode Morrill, Nebr. R. F. Stuckey Lexington, Nebr. C. E,. Higinbotham Hastings, Nebr. Terms to expire in November, 1924 Neil H. Dunn Hastings, Nebr. C. W. McConaughy Holdrege, Nebr. Guy Wilson Laurel, Nebr. George P. Bissell Central City, Nebr. Kev. (We. HSW-e Bovie,: DD; Denver, Colo, Arthur Jones Hastings, Nebr. Rev. Samuel Garvin, D. D. Colo. Springs, Colo. Dr, C. A. Spellman Beatrice, Nebr. Rev. J. W. Pressly Omaha, Nebr. These trustees shall hold office until their successors shall have been elected and installed in office as herein above provided for, PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 81 Article VI The particular branches of Science, Literature, and Arts to be taught in the sa'd Hastings College shall be such as are hese taught in well regulated colleges in the United States of America: during the years of study commonly called Freshman, eet Sere Junior and Senior years leading to the baccalaureate degrees. To these subjects others may be added, professorships may be founded and related departments may be established as the Trustees may from time to time direct. The Trustees shall have power to prescribe cond'tions for ad- missions, requirements for graduation, and courses of study, and to employ and dismiss teachers and others. Article VII Until the Trustees shall direct otherwise, there shall be fifteen professorships in the said Hastings College, and their designation shall be as follows: 1. The Presidency. 2. The Professorship of Cl assical Languages. 3. The Professorship of Philosophy and Fexelology 4. The Professorship of Mathematics. 5. The Professorship of English. 6. The Professorship:of.Music. ... 7. The. Professorship ot History. 8. The Professorsh’'p of Biology. 9. The Professorship of Chemistry. 10. The Professorship of Physics. 11. The Professorship of Bible. 12. The Professorship of Romance Languages. 13. The Professorship of Political Science and Economics. 14. The Professorship of Home Economics. 15. The Professorship of Educat’on, Article VIII The Board of Trustees of this Corporation shall have power to confer such academic honors and degrees as are, at any time, confer- red by colleges and universities in the United States, baccalaureate and advanced degrees, except honorary degrees, being conferred upon. recommendation by the faculty. Article IX If the office of any Trustee becomes vacant by reason of death, resignation, disqualification, or otherwise, except in the case of the President of Hastings College, the Board of Trustees at any stated or called meeting may fill such vacancy, the member so appointed to hold office during the unexpired portion of the term for which he is appointed. 82 AD eh Dols Meo MOK se SOle Anal D: The said Trustees shall have power to make such by-laws, rules and ordinances as they may from time to time deem necessary or expedient for the government of the said association, providing alway that the said by-laws, rules and ordinances or any of them shall not be repugnant to the laws of the United States, to the constitution and laws of this State or to the certificate of incorporation of this cor- poration, Certificate of Adoption At the stated Fall meeting of the Board of Trustees held at 2 o’clock p. m. November 6, 1922, due notice of which was previously given, these revised articles of incorporation were unanimously a- dopted to supersede the articles under which the college was then operating. THE HASTINGS COLLEGE EMPIRE. The field now open to Hastings College is a real empire. It includes the three great states, Nebraska, Colorado and Wyoming with a total population of more than two and one half million people. Hastings College is the only Presbyterian College now in operation in this entire region. The total Presbyterian membership in these three states is considerably over fifty thousand. Competition with other colleges is less than in any other similar field. The railroads are so located that the entire region is easily tributary to Hastings as an educational center. All of these things taken together pre- sent at Hastings, the most splendid opportunity to build a great Christian college. OMAHA THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY. With the growth of population and the increase in number of churches there was great difficulty in securing a sufficient number of ministers to supply the churches. None of the Theological Seminar- ies of the church were nearer than Cincinnati and Chicago, excepting the German Presbyterian Theological School and Seminary at Du- buque, Iowa. This suggested to some of those interested the thought of establish ng a seminary within the bounds of the Synod, where graduates of our Synodical Colleges and other colleges could qualify themselves for the work of the ministry, and be ready to supply va- cant pulpits and enlarge the mission work in this and adjoining states. Accordingly, some forty men, ministers and laymen, represent ng the synods of Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas and South Dakota, assembled in the First Presbyterian church of Omaha, February 17th, 1891, and after an extended conference, unanimously resolved to es- tablish an institution of sacred learning in Omaha, the gateway of the great home m’ssion field of the Presbyterian Church. A Board of Directors was chosen, who, meeting in April, 1891, adopted a con- PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 83 Rev. Larimore C. Denise, D. D. stitution and determined to open the Seminary in Omaha, September, 1891. The faculty, as first constituted: Rev. William W. Harsha, D.D., LL.D., Professor of Didactic and Polemic Theology; Rev. Stephen Phelps, D.D, Professor of Ecclesiastical, Homiletical and Pastoral Theology; Rev. John Gordon, D.D., Professor of Ecclesiastical History; Rev. Matthew B. Lowrie, D.D., Professor of New Testa- ment Litcrature and Exegesis, and Rev. Charles G. Sterling, Ph.D., Professor of Hebrew, with Rev. Thomas L. Sexton, D.D., as lec- turer on Home M-’ssions. Rev. Matthew B. Lowrie, D.D., was elected President of the in- stitution in 1899 and was succeeded by Rev. Albert B. Marshall, D.D., in 1910. Dr. Marshall resigned in April, 1920, and Rev. James Mar- quis Wilson, D. D., pastor at the time of the North Presbyterian church of Omaha, was chosen President in September of the same 84 THESEUS CO RYS Dae Lie Rev. Daniel E. Lane Phy eae): year. Dr. Wilson, at his own request, was released in December, 1923, from the office and accepted the Professorship of Homiletics, Pastoral Theology, and English Bible. The first of January, 1924, Rev. Larimore C. Denise, D.D., accepted the call as President. Members of the faculty, from time to time, have been Rev. Jo- seph J. Lamp, Ph.D., D.D., who occupied the cha‘r of Old Testament. For twenty-two years he made a marked impression upon successive generations of students. In 1917 Dr. Lamp was made Professor Em- eritus in his department. He was called to his reward in 1920, Rev. Daniel E. Jenkins, Ph.D., D.D., occupies the chair as Pro- fessor of Didact'c and Polemic Theology and has served as Dean of the faculty for over fifteen years. He is the only member of the present faculty who taught in the old Cozzens Hotel at tenth and Harney streets, Omaha. His first year of teaching was the last year of occupancy of the named building. His total service to the Sem- inary has extended over a period of twenty-three years, Dr. Jen- kins forms a connecting link in h’s relation as President of the University of Omaha, where theological students can avail themselves of the opportunity of pursuing elective subjects in connection with the theological course. Rev. Chas. A. Mitchell, Ph. D., D. D. Rev. Frank H. Ridgley, Ph. D. Reyalanics Ma ilsone D:D: 86 THE HISTORY 0 Beal tik The Rev. Charles Herron, A. M., D.D., came to the Seminary December 1, 1904, and has since been in charge of the chair of Church History, Church Government and Missions, and is also Librarian. The Rev. Charles A. Mitchell, Ph.D., D.D., has been Professor of New Testament Literature and Exegesis since September, 1902. Rev. Frank H. Ridgeley, A.M., Ph.D., was chosen to succeed Dr. Lampe to the chair of Hebrew, Old Testament L’terature and Exegesis, September, 1917. Dr. Ridgeley is the Secretary of the faculty. The Seminary grounds are situated in what is known as Kountze Place, an attractive resident position in Omaha, with paved streets and other city improvements, and are accessible by three street car lines. The Seminary occupies its own commodious and convenient modern building, providing rooms for students, together with Chap- el, Library, Reading Room and Class Rooms. The building is heated with steam throughout, and is provided with electric light and gas, hot and cold water for the baths. The Campus covers two entire city blocks, between Spencer, Em- met, Twentieth and Twenty-first streets. The immediate field of the Sem’nary embraces the territory ex- tending from M’nnesota to Texas and from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains—Sixteen great states of the Union. There are 3000 Presbyterian churches in this region with 330,000 members, and fourteen Presbyterian colleges. The present officers of the Board of Directors are Raw, eNlinane le Wisin IDID IBID ID President Mis Loli Coe \Wihas to tae eee Vice President Mrs, Jatiess ELA datsnee Ae ae ee: Secretary Ma" Herbert (As )Diotid) 9.2 eu oe sage Treasurer The Seminary offers a full course of study for the Gospel Min- istry as adopted by the General Assembly and also courses leading to the degree of Bachelor of Divinity. It has sent in its history of thirty-two years two hundred and twenty graduates of whom over two hundred are actively engaged in service to the Church laboring in every Synod west of the Mississippi River, in many eastern Synods and ‘n the foreign field. Object of the Seminary. The object of the Seminary shall be to instruct candidates for the Gospel ministry in the knowledge of the Word of God conta':ned in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, the only supreme and infallible rule of faith and life, and of the doctrine, order and institutes of worship taught in the Scriptures and summarily exhibit- ed in the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America; to cherish in them by all the means of d'vine ap- “AUVNINES VHYWO PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 87 88 LPHABAHIS TOR Y2O Rehr i pointment, the life of true godliness; to cultivate in them the true gifts which Christ, the Head of the Church, by His Spirit, confers upon those whom He calls to the ministry; and to impart to them, so far as may be, the various learnings by which they may be fur- nished for its work; to the end that there may be trained up a suc- cession of able, faithful and godly ministers of the Divine Word, as the chief agency under God, who ordained the Church for the gather- ing and perfecting of the saints in this life to the end of the world. —Constitution, UNIVERSELY” PASTOR, Rev. Dean R. Leland, D. D. The Committee on Education in its report of 1911 (page 42-43) calls attention to the poilcy of the Board of Education and the agree- ment that was entered into with the Board of Education and the Syn- od of Nebraska. This agreement provided for the appointment of a Student Pastor representing the Presbyterian Church at the State University of Nebraska. The Rev. Dean R. Leland, D. D., was chos- en for the work, in which he has found his p!ace and proven himself well fitted. Presbyterian Association of the University of Nebraska. The name of this organization shall be the Preshyterian Associ- ation of the University of Nebraska. The purpose of this association will be to conserve and develop, through pastoral oversight, the re- lig:ous life of the Presbyterian students of the University, and by cooperation with the Board of Education of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, and with the local churches and the religious organizations within the University, to supply those oppor- tunities of religious instruction, worship and practical Christ’an ser- vice which constitute necessary elements in all true education and life. This Association shall be incorporated under the laws of the State of Nebraska and shall be organized with seven trustees to be appointed by the Synod of Nebraska of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, the object of said Association and ap- pointment of officers being to promote the purpose of the Associa- PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 89 tion and to take charge of its property and business interests. These seven men shall be elected by the Synod, two for one year, two for two years and three for three years, and there shall be an ensuing election each year. In the appointment of these seven trustees the Synod shall elect three ministers, two of whom shall be pastors of Lincoln churches, and four laymen, three of whom shall be residents of Lincoln, all members of the Presbyterian Church. The above named officers shall constitute an Executive Council and have full charge of the affairs of this Association. They shall make an annual report to the Synod through the Committee on Chris- tian Education, and to the Secretary of the Board of Christian Edu- cation of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America. All real estate and gifts of endowment which may come into the possess‘on of the Association shall be held by the Board of Christian Education of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of Amer- ica in the name of the Synod of Nebraska. Thus has the Presbyterian Church in Nebraska tried to do her part towards educating and caring for her sons and daughters for the duties and responsibilities of life, and to qualify men to teach and lead others in the ways of righteousness. PASTORS, OFFICERS AND MEMBERS A GREAT FACTOR IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF TATE ACHURCH, A report of this character would be incomp!ete which failed to recognize the faithful and efficient help given by the officers and mem- bers of the churches in their different relations and responsibilities. There are at present 934 Ruling Elders and 312 Deacons in the Syn- od who are contributing a marked influence toward building up the Great Kingdom of Jesus Christ. The Nebraska churches have been favored with many good and faithful men; men who have reflected credit upon themselves and their office, and whose names might well be recorded in this summary of facts and history. While the superintendents of missions and other field men have given their time and strength to the duties of their office, pastors all over the state have gone outside of the bounds of their own parishes to look up the scattered sheep, and gather them together, and pre- pare the way for the formation of churches. Not afraid of toil, they have co-operated in the labor of secking out and shepherding the hidden ones of God’s flock, and so making possible the more rapid and extensive ingather:ng to the fold of the Shepherd of Israel. 90 THESE ISTO Rao loeb E When Synod was organized there were 32 ministers. Today there are enrolled in Boxee Butter PGes byt Cia seers seen tenets eee ies seers teee 23 Hastings-a: Pres by tery atsc:-voncentec ose eee 28 Te cutem eryrue tie SDiyiten ya meena crete arene aeeeesee eaten renee 22 NiGleiclle (Ciney 1ertesoyaxem? 2. girs eee eee 46 Niveloperieey TEigoclo ne, A ee een ee eb creeoseoe 30 @itaha se Tesh Vrety tsetse eee 63 ‘Total sees eee Roar le Presbytery of Box Butte Ministers Address Enrollment Alevrson, W.- \WViilets ee tes eee Bayar ce ee eee eee eee Present Armstrone’ J) Ag iota ses Mitchell eae Oro te eee Present Axtell. Mowre yo, soacssceee Scottsbluff, 2017 First Ave., -....... Present Purkheider-. Gharlesm AG e220 GO @ 1a ere ce ees Present Campbells Geoteen Wacx see Orta ieee ee 2 ee ee Absent Clough, Clintore Wate sess cee Minatate: eos Ae eee ee Present Fermison Desaq0D Dy mes! A llvanice tee eke ee Present Nerstent.Georec. Geyer Broadwater eee Present Kiteaoanitels oar hee Bridgeport. ¢..8s se en eee Present Dieht Samuels oa Des Stic F sa2 eva ee tee a, eee eee Present Ticn Soamucl ee. eee ee Morrill: (2 eae eae Absent McNab Rj amesece see eee! hosebtrgin Orecom aoe Absent Olina, JNkopennebae 2, eee Pt © Taye. senc oo es oe i ees Present ©spottieecioniacm = ee Bicycle so ae oe eee Absent Portem Geore ce, Cae eee Morrill 3 cccad hi, 2 eee ee Absent Reaugh (Walia yess seca Sam Luis Obispo, Cal. ese Absent Sehiaey deayyebeta) TSR Sees Gérin Geka ee Present Sie tonne (iO eee ee Bushnell Sa.2 tea ee ee ee Absent Score) diese Vwiilliva tre aero Dist Gs. he ee Present Siwanmnys, Bo 1 Craw lords aaa 2 SE eee ‘Absent Stewalt-), Lddi@wds sche Rushiville: 4c. a eee Absent Taylor, Robert’ W.2D7(D.22 Scottsblufi 3107 By t6the ste Present ators © Eran kei VV 9 eee eee tes Kimball ce. 2a oe eee Present Town Clerks of Session Enrollment ly SAlliances:s sees eS Jal. Overman se eee 2 Bayard ie eoeeee ae ae ee IZ ES. Buel Cae oe eee Bide CpOLte ae eee Ee N..t Drapers tc oe ee AED LOAC atc tae eee Paull? Katoni sis eer eee be Crawiond : epee eee ey As7S * Sexton=s eee On Crawiard a 22, ke eee. Dsaish?-Stetson. -. eee eee PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. OL Fie TBR WANS Sec hh ean en Pe 7D W B eee 8 ee eee Sy, » LD nihvoym, (ieee aah eee Veslh Abby Ais Wenychys Se OR ae ee ee (yh Bg ee oe ea a oe ere es Politi GolatiSe tiger, aera tesa cya ares is) me) keer eee tee ee ewe Lote htel in cmeeeene eee ili, UGxosmakonaie cee cee sete meee. (CRESS 10 rene ee ee ee ee ence 1, TeleverRICWN a. te pee (Co ide eM, 22 oe eee eee Sb, IEG Nnnil oped he ee eee ee we IDs. WO IBY Me ROVeKR Steet ee es ee i ee S CO Meee his crs a Or Re AC MOB ai ie Ait wl a bee SP a jae VicGrews =. seed ee a NE EL ial fe Clete eee eee eee GH Li tientclt ee sees ee cee our oc 1B, IML, Were@pelineie, NN IDS oe eek ee VIO CL IM eee wee. Ame B. A. Rosenbrough . B. A. Rosenbrough ei AM Moreilh, eae eee ee aes Sd is SE a eres Wa bao, Se oe, ha ee rea nee TOS VOT iil ieee tec ere atte ee (Caving ABIEN MUNA ee es ee ee COMBERNUSIiVillGaeeee oe ee ae Oy. wily, NAMING pak IAI) gee ee ST amocotsb aie eno. Jo Ce Reynolds 1620 “Lhird Ave. Prem Se OLUSD Ui Let ce a eenck os: Wig Goce ote Lies nce ee ee ees Dame STON CVA eee © See a Sap De Mio Cree einer soe eee: Presbytery of Hastings Ministers Address Enrollment Andrews, William FE. ...........: EV aS iitio:s meee e eee eee ce eco Absent lpianikesy, Jeiahe ASS IIL IDS ate Oxfor dye Fete Ve eta Present leaner, VAAN Iota LC ae ee FE C12 Tf ee men ec eee Present Biaenniaa, NAGMHrGl Joel oe YAS Hit CS APe eee = ral tA eee es, ed Absent Bidces a Ghatlecwas ats ie. MO GMa RRMG EK. IMON GEL cones eae ore Absent DanielwGeorse: M:5.2)e a, (CHIE Koay seep el ee heen eens eee Ne Present Diary Oni @ sees ee (GANG Wbei bes. nn nee eds Be eerie ee Absent Douglass slaimes “Me. A FLO cite a cumeem ee aera n oer Cee Pee Te Present i erg ad ic aee Co ook re ee Peay ein GEV mete cee Ae A! Present Eggleston, Albert H. ............ SUD CEILOL Ee okie ae eee cee a Present PEN Vilna se. 3 eS Jaa perianal oe ee Present MEU RICYC, SIP 55 os aR eae Bei ds ea ae te ee eine Ue Absent Por ree es). lol DP Hastings. A... c ot ee Present Himphrey. louis Fos. AN fel ale eh ech Vee Sr eel ARDS Present Jackman, George R. 2.2.2.2 Pehan Oa pect e Sat aioe an Present Jones; Stephen. H.. 2.......°2...0. Nelsiiiewietoas eo ee tee Present PGES AM lations ons. 2330 N. Halstead St., Chicago .... Absent Kein etre Albert Mee. os Gata bet lea ee ee Present Kirkpatrick, Charles 22./.. |: Cadam see ee ee, te Rel Present Mackay, Donald D., D. ENC rc € twee ee so Present Newell, George E. D. D. ...... EL ASTI TiC Sh, Camere hee Lia ine Present Brothers dwin Ti .3.2 Tete Sa Was mua tere ee) Present IOCISG ME ACOhS ss ea Hiastitios. «seen Ge ee Be Absent schell Ulysses. G., D..D,. «.... Oak. Rete tei 1 Ped ae Oe Absent 92 THEeHISTORY OR Tis Stee tak LS. Rive tenceeserataeeeeeceees PI SStiit8 soos cde ae evseeeeees cw Present Seabright, lrnest (GC. v.secrecce PURUOIE cio iss eee aeons Present Stred des niiip Nyy cteceecrteseeence-seer Nurora® 26022: 8 ieee Present Taylor, Juewallaces VV seces2 Vengurla, Ratnagiri Dist., India Absent Churches Clerks of Sessions Enrollment I Gsh cea} qe ee ne ee ee Bess. MUTT SOTY tt cee nae eee INSP Cn feces aoc i ee ee Ward. Shuée 722.522 n eee Beet tee ee ac aca a reese neg eae ee acs ee ene ee Plies Hill ose eee Wo rrod Boh ste g Witten Rene eee ee Ee Se Beaver. (City uacee ee eee DpH Cronk esa Cadams. 6 2 eee EL Sa Tee] aes de ee ‘Ce rehuiaie | ke eee ae Qin te SECC tie Ss a enetete an eee Cyoloysecreyal SSs.s ST ese! Ax Get Brsentarty 22s) en ee ee Aico toylepihae ee ee ee oe oT. UT GOP We. ail) cad coc. cept eee ee FE at ce ocean da sae sede Seco e cad ec es Sat Seep Sa cates a sas St baa ce eu eae Gilfiiera eee eee eee ABroyu tig AR Watel Ronee eee Be bebe balstes We bee a ee eet coe @val Ue Samsithlat as eeeoreeeeee eeee Tasting Shite ee Whaley NGI Sern. s-ne after teeeee: S. A. Haynes MiGteree ete eae eee PAR Belvillet se eee Ex Ri Haryard Litt p@rtah | sesaz-cdeterseneasnusve tenet Vested Joanie Bender: 22 JT, M. Bender KeeieSa We) xvirtes teenies eee Crvilll Ja Caldwell 2222 Chasm Runune IGE DANO N esstad aes (yy Wl BTSs abanAetOWN eso sone ce TeyiSTIl eC reeeepeeereree ieee eee SCs Karsseliee Rao) SActin@nc meena NAB OW > Robinson +22... Albert Thompson giniatisee ie Pas “iy, Se Georger Wis DeWelf 2.500... Gothen tl umes co ato. cena lace HH EW ilianss: sc. H. L. Williams Garam. island. (eg is oe Ses 4) ch A ise meres. sponse ye Se: Rice ct aye ee co we te. Zw eilishisora ny oo, foe ote i eatiey. ee. Prec pS 5 We an ChASh 7 baie acs L. D. Martin gn ea enh = a oe ea eases ee eS UT Rig ao, ee A Oop ariek ito. 28 Be st BCP fa eet a cass setecsense George A> Anthony .2....% RUSS) ene ILARWE NIGEL. Ak ee ee George B, Work. ..2c2-ax.. G. B. Work ere the CGT: 2S a ae Wiaeder Vier Vatinws) 2.62 ey a UNOS TS A EUR ke EB; M. Roebbinson =..20.2 H. G. Mitchel OeGl oo ge ky sees a Geercegh. Gatis ve oun ee te, Siem day ar deere en ee JonaVetienday, 6) 20 levi NA, TEER. We gy Be ce ee re eran Pacer d epee eee Gar al aylor SUES EGE ia oe Wel ce ll Giplinews 0 .ceoceie vee RETEST Pa TEE SOE een me orbit Brownlee=s 0 ve: SLADE ODE eee tes Batie We Glandon nei. eo 94 THE HISTORY OF THE Grit berlatid 9 setwectencceccaete aeerrenee=== Walter Cokepe sec ciccscesssecereceneeeerns WAVGKOVal TROWESE secre tect renee Ei Wie it fe eames ees cee eer Wwailigoya INI) rpc cet James G. Hastings, R. F- Dace: Presbytery of Nebraska City Ministers Address Enrollment Barry ol oma = ei ete Osceola «eres tester tee ee eee nee Absent Belly Marctts fleet cisccseeese ese Blues Spriness aie t eee Absent Borden, \Georse. Wor--oe-e-- Yukon, -OKlahonia cece Absent Brethouwer, B.).,20.Di - it CO] yee ee aes ee ee Absent Bottoms, Nj. Ernest’ 520s Kaneswilless Mo. ct cccctceee ere eee Absent Brown, James eB.) ceacecc-ceeeee Hastings «© NeDaxfei. ae Present Carpenter, John H., D. D...-1521 Washington St, Lincoln ~2Present Gompton, Orviile yee 17367 Cherry. St, sLincoliaes Absent Davicet hee A Tt NUE geeccceeeeect acs Pats btiryiedee a bee eee Present Davies, D. Penty -x.-.:--.-.--.--. VWiy more alee Liat eee Absent Davis, Bruce W., ...........-------- Steeles City as eee Present Loole, Williani Dae dreaene- ct A date (eae SSS ee (ee Present Himbhot eB laiet iia gee eae SS Omaha 2 ee Present Prank, 2 Clinton te) eee Deshleriaa. 2. Ss ae ee eee Present Garretson, John .......-.-..---.----- Boscelisseet ho lpe Ka tS sae Present Gertsch, Albert sss Hickian sts se Absent Goodale, Steele" Dy [22 =: Vistek ae telo ere ee Present Guinn, Clyde We vee Hubbell cence smn Re ranrant, Curtis Jo eee pacgeres Tal y0@ 01 Claes Sai) ee Absent Henry, 2B enjamin a spies -ta1) sa ee e Present lIshilgelnerr,. Isleveris) (Go codes ose: Chi ; LTA p oe shes te Scie eee cee ee om Se Excused Hilscher, Solomon S., D. D. 962; Oy ; aaa: 263. ‘OS St, Lintel nae eee Present Inioliumecgp@redin, 10, INS cceceerte 2 : SSS ay Cig Aes eve eee i Se Present Miiherst,. Hredericka@ ssa Raymond prevent capes: ea Se eeeeeseeeee University Place,;72 a eee Present Johnsoa, Paul et seonrygecedascancesss= 2oLdeatidu Gartel de lincoln: Present eee Bee G, D, D. Steele City cht AO ie ee ee a Present a and, I ean “i D. D. .....-- 1315S. 26th. Lincoln geese eee Present GONVES, Hist UCL! | ys cectensaaeeuaery S atte bul te ate ke aoe Peet Liteas, edgar GD) 9) aie aa pieced eau of tee eae See arte Pea G. OUP Cr mihadeisilal =. ee Present McGee, James WV oe sitet utthngatees Staplehutsf Sextet. Absent eee Benj. Markley, D. D.13th and M Sts., Lincoln ............ Absent Patton, Leonard Re. 1508 First Corso, Nebr. City ... Present Daye bat) renee ee A Tit lode a eae ona Prasat Loe yeaa i Boral Weak aalonheece ee ee Present Lane Vice Wises aaron s Panninae- see eee teat Rosenausy | Olt e ay eee Fasting) i. ny pee PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. oP Relde bie heatlerc.se este Ue Us (iy epee On Be he aioe Present SCS deere ge CEL Koooid tan DO DY areal cs WC “4 05 0 ae too pen oe mae Present StOnecipneteuls Geb iisl a Rone. Os Nala ccc ecetennss Present trates Wier clas Beare nesterces Ns hitart ojo (ols Sara 2 Shot eee ur ee ee Present EE ROEIpSOU. « | AY: Lee cectaeccctene Si7eNe othe ote LANnColi g ancc Present WWVieitee @aliiim CA et NY eo 6 Wats: ae ire eno linn ae, ae Present Williamson, DeWitt C. ........ ae Hoge 1) 5) 5. gener ee eee eee e Absent Wimberley, Alexander ........ (Whamrereainy IMIRN 25.4 ee ee Present ~ Churches Clerks of Session Enrollment DNGENTNIS: Sot ree Scene eee Se as ak oe Wo Mel Maehmeeoy te. care TW tos oh Rg lene ae See a eee ae IL, Jal, Winesraloyererctny 1b, Ink, “IMakopeinloyobetedey JaNied BKO} Saree ere eee ees oe lene re Cee GOslitie han hen om leimncoln PNUD ULE Timmer oer tae cece, See eee WG, de, (Gnu ia, eee P. A. Gilmore BALTES EO Mime te roe ee etree IRS, (Ga TBR ee aR I one pete ten: BiG CLIC Gres ett oe ets eee ih; 1B, SaGl@iah cee Sh ee F. B. Sheldon | STT WaT ieee acter emioe ea CR VWVaeele oolestomeneneee J. M. Mahaffey BCU E LD oan stercecesccnatinean ander bsdagesne i OW, Wyallhievans,, Wane BST PLING S) Sep ese factor es sacvenscees Pei bear odericikpentnee oes: OLSEN LON P8 foies ia a opeeeae: Wine, WSyelanavenvaveie Gee eee DD EShyl Ctgmeses scent ee ose Nieiete CAGES sees see re ED Cramer ees a I Ne (IMB tDL) Seen are ee Dimi aie eee ee Wie Wine TTVeSG eee E. H. Boercherding Eva 110s Va eee ee ee See eee Si Trea A | ere eee ae J. L. Kennedy PUAUE TION tier tes Uae cat Wikwanonn (GuilGyoil 2. ee Bic iGie Gita ie seen nia ree ee A BavGrovesieae sae eee ee ict higeeee Searente a. urea Pee Ox Gy Kilecknenieents seen ens Stes atime aie ko es Digs ha Sti gees tide Se tee Heb to iaemeene on wt (alee Richards ese ese eee (Poo Shieh ee Georges IClinp asses. P. G. Fieselman Febery gall ao i GwAseParkery Unadilian 27.0. RASC ee eee et Gayle CraigNatkas Kanga... Tia Old tase oon b en ae ey dh isk Terry ge aie ET T. H. Gillan TEINICOlmm nS tees te ee Feil tae ever C8 eee nec e eee Lincoln, Highland Park: ....... Herman Hammerman, R. 6, Lincoln iLrarcerelbae - Svexeroyayel! ee eee ee Titus Davis, 1726. K St) Lincoln ais Aerio en See | eee ent Lincoln Westminster ............- O. A. Andrews, 1735 Euclid, Lincoln IL erica tere ee races J. C. Westerhoff, Alexandria ... Nt Ge LES A eee Vanes as REL Cf bee ees ne een eras ee Osceolaae wees ak Bes Pill PAtiderson2t ate ete Reallintisy tice nee. Dae 5 IO D Citar beams Mie rae eee een eal alti cgmeeetee ie ee ws We hy Te ial, (C. Jioilbimeverm, 1 12, IDL, 1ieda Paw Meee A ye ce a tee, Ge A sharrington => ase W. S. Potts Iblatesnioutimeee ee ane eee J. M. Robertson 96 THEAHISTORY OF SIE Raymond Ge oP ees WwW. W. Witliso ties seer eee eereeneees Saad tie ee eee Drie uo Old GIL sgereet Dr. ik Peder Seplaburstecee eases: Re Ms pGocdell rae eee Ciee en City tee eee eee Allen T. Phelps -.2.2..... Allen T. Phelps Sad dard Cem t cement Parent eae Jacobs Ketns ne noe ree ARGOS Teel ke” ee eee Philip Asher... 2. stesso "Paiaiine HM eniee eeeees AB ey llen ee eae AMP pe, ern ea i ey MeeASeT Warp Sacre eee ee SRI R Ver tng no Sle, ae ee pee tn Jae RULERS. = meee eee University Pl. Westminster..R. S. Arnold «ce S ford 4 ey ee eRe eee Dre oR? MeConauchy 2... e Presbytery of Niobrara Ministers Address Enrollment Ambrose, Pout) Gases Hastings, VN Cy. 9 eecrecea-ceee nets Absent Andrews, Joseph «1... Randoiph web, cr... eee Absent Barone Vea ee eee Niopnara,, Neb. -2a.2.G.es ee Present Beers! Henry fe aes Starts eiNe Dasa cn nines Present Caldwell,: John:,M., D.. D. ..... Chicago, .39,N.2Pine,Ave........ Excused Clark SSL 6 eee Valentine ge Nie Dae seccee ees eee nee Present Christie 9] ohn (Gio. ste teen Calendocees ts. ten. ces eee Absent CrOSS SN ee ee Vek Voll C Sieccretecte. ise kee eee eer Absent Byycant vis olin ee een tceee Belen sec encenscatencenenenstacancosyoys angen Present RialaeAtitone Bape ee Wier.cit] Syren a Present Callagher, “Geo: Wr 22s cecceros Ballipiary@ 16 pee Absent Guest Wore Hl geeeee see ee cere Atkinson Neb wee eee Present Elaines aroun 6 ties ees eee Columbiar Moe ee ee Absent Hennine a) of 5 ore nce eene Fairheld, Gla, eet eee Absent Hushesg ty Wee ee Eloi MeN € fi; Gover nse cg eee Present Fones, sAbraham Roce sec Gambridge Nebr Present Jones; sFenton SG oar eneccee. Waynes N Cb s.ca te eee Present FOTGS WV OO ee eet nacre Carroll °Neéb, Gs... 0s Absent Kelsoujaines is meats s Belden, Neb, (2:33.22 eee Absent Lampe,” Heney Wed 0 St Rorea ee Excused Woecwae © dywiancd mesa eer Chicago "s.,.245.. 50 eee Absent Long; /Barzillat M:4D:. D. 2 Pender,” Neb. 2s... eee Present Dongestatt Get seeer-cennokes O'Neil; Neb. 2s. a Present Littles ee] olay Wi petersseec ee creees Madison, Neb..22222 3 oe Absent Orr .Reteg Mie eee eee Nortolk Neb) 2. ires te eee Present Russell.J 7G. ee ees Osmond, Neb. eee Present Stith, eerie, wed ee Abode Poncase Nebs ass ee Present Sulenberger, Linn P. ............ Gttatamaia, CGC. Ac = eee Excused Wolters BatGe eae Emerson,-Neb. 22.22 eee Present Yemm, Steplien ....u.02. Wakefield-sNebaee ae Present PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. an Churches Clerks of Session Enrollment SONGS Wane nike acy ee ee ee me ldete sate J. W. Fullerton PA Dpleat Lek ek ats beets nates Wie Wa AaeSEmOA VAY 5 ee TEU cle tn eee cre eo eae Giarless Or dary. = eee erent Bre atl Vince ce ces eee [eG Mam Der teen. eee oe eee IBV KON SUD RG ka greene oe See’ Searels Cad maple 3 Sek ae eee ee ee RSE LTO tee terc ance tae aanae nts chee ee CHRIS SVG AE 11 Ge rege sen eee 5 71 FeO) ee em eee see ee MIR Sete en SP rik oe Oy CMe Nrel TV re ote aencates cant GC Alynn, Dustinges ©: 34s: LD Leica 7 eee eer mere ce Dre Wren. Petersotim scree | PAW (OU Chas od ec Seeciecties ereeer aera Whe KoA x Okinawan akon ce ee re SCC IE RE Sas SS Pe ec aera Ike Soo lakonaninena, ON oe TLagPiRK Ua, ee ace ree ee re eis cee aise ISR ale IB INO es eater rete AG ariel tree 2 ore ee ee Re a CAE MING ry ripe eee eee ee ee DEO ale NOLS WW eset aac peace Aa Cpa Nit he yee ens aes ore IAGO Tne eee ee eee Geo, 12, IWnetenralkemn .45- fe RELODGAT Ah tate neo tes be, toacasee Kee Gross Vint pp) Cin a eeeeers C. C. Whippie IN tho] Kaew ee ete ee eee eS 1S) eV ise Bara 11 irene wee eee (©) sa lcccl ay emetic rence em meee emt Tipe OW Gute eee nee oe ee Lee Sion dig Seek ee Se ie Bar Gas chroed ére se TEX SOK GE Mp oe ae ee ee erat a Seer GlydeMiyers uae esr eee VEXGIAVE NSN OE 6 Sioa eter ee ane eae See Dele Gy cee ee eee ee S. D. Love Rando'ph WF en Die ee, Re | Ise WEL POM ANG on ee SEOTOte City tae Bee ool Severs pat oe mete re, er es Slat tapeens aa ae. . ot ate Hips Sens Onis cess. kee Sa, © Weaulanibavee neo Seee ten ee lekemine AWGWesD Nee 39th eee Present Pechete Ge he G:-. ete ee Te ~ 28617 Dodgenaaret eee Absent 98 THE HISTORY OF THE Foster, Harry Bo sccsseccetnee Chicago, 77 W. Washington ... Present Grace, Mredeticks Ey Sen. Omaha, 2562-Ames “Ave. —2-.. Present Graham, Everett) sVV wee -cessee ewer O Old el tick e tteesc seems Present Griffiths, Thomas “2-2 -ck lene Columbus waNeb: 46s Present Halsey, «Walter Nivi-2 cr Omaha, 2738 Crown Point -....... Present Hamilton, James M. ............ _ uk eval: NTE catbesteootcce Present Herron, Charles; (D; -D.a.25 2 Cipey Weiaaneigy Sth os Excused Heuser, Herman: Gear cttenscees 47 OAL IBeheseyebol JANKE, ccoce Absent Honsaker, David Sz DD =. Valley= Nebo scmsanseeen ee eee Absent Pinter eSttia hte Nae eceeecececesctee Northfield, Minn., 1055 Nevada Absent siemngem, lel WS cteeeseosees Weioh,, Nie bity ees ee eee Present Jenkins,*D., Ei. Phe Dab) olOmaha19et Binney n= ee Present Jenks, Edwin Hart, D. D. -.. PATO US soothe ota eee Present OCGA Wine ete tee een eneesees BD By Se Site Ss. bee ies Present Kearns. A 0c bi) ieee acne iekcarrialy aaetN | samen ee eee Present ES@ATIIS, | RAY o We cure-certaceectaarees Ei @1m0.11 Cae Nic eee eee Present Kearns, Wm. H., D. D. ........ Omaha leveize peice lint! s (eee Present Kounolyesswa cles ic cscce ct Mit eS Tt CLS tues oe mee Absent Lenk VeWisi Sac Aen Re mera eh 2S 820068 Wallis A. verme eee Absent (laird, MelyinJR D2 Das. ‘ 1335. COoeoD bless Present Lice Pal Gi ese eecee es a3 34 eo OL) ae ere ee Present MCE ween ROD Cl tao tausareeseace Macy Ne bigs ac eee eee Present Jenkins. bisa toy bee 1) peters secs Theci. Sem., Princeton, N. J. .... Absent Horton, Snuiel N. seen OLGTIOUN CD iin. fee ee Present MacLeod, Donald e of 1b ~QOmana,-4916" California asa Present Miller David € peeks (Cedere (Rikemis, IN@IS. coo Present Mitchell’ GeA Ri eD 26: D. Bellevue, Nebel ee eee Absent Moneymaker, epltar lone: Benson wine Ds aero ae eee Absent Moore ilarty,ps)teeeec eee. CEA eR CD aye cee tetera ae Present IMigonmeictenny (C5. 18, cance Wintlebago. =Neb _ 22a Present INTC METS 0 tite Loe) eee ee NAVE Yera CNG Slay » cee Present Niyeeenack: INvermenein 1B. see Minneapolis, Minn., 2322 Bryant Absent IPAKniiSON, (Goreme Io ccckaetccccd Valithill- Neb sil eee eee Absent Pressty..) se Wr weet cee Omaha, 614 Peters Trust. -0.2..1. Present Tatipgy Robert Barents see Carlinville, Ill., Blackburn Col..... Absent Ridgley, Frank H., Ph. D. ....Qmaha, Neb., 2011 Maple St. ....Present Ro bel Charleg sire ett terecmemeen PAP 35 Ns SOth Sts eee ae Present palsbury pyamies 11.1), vias Larctise Nein eae eee eee Be Present Ieussell Me Glarencer cyst tics Bellevuc,s Nebo ae eee Absent Spencer, John Eo... Omaha,e 4216 S22 etd ~Staieee Present ILE Wal Car CLO MI Vcr st sce teisccnte Chicago tsetse te et Se Absent SDAIt eV Wa Ws eee eee Oniaha s54685..415 pee eee Excused TayloceRiussell’ tect Bee Mir Cal GagAe Betti) ete ee tee eee ER TOE CTCON te. ci tee Watton. Ehomp sone. eer ime etivatiy. | ss 42.2..25...-s WWW; Ae leo Cll Te hewn tates ee cee MMEEISOWCAAVE! i..22..cccenee5 J AS CS fritter ee ei etebatic: = see BY Be Gesmanweee sets eee 2 INi@ieEl Te So ee Chasen Wie Cainieeeeeaeenes R. A. McEchron game leat liom N alee hae Gagh yeh shetis: Bootes. 7h! Sipe lib Dee ea a Vee Cae aS O11 geen re eee MMV VESTITIINSLET, |. otecc-cstee Ce Barnet tae =e Frank Waterman enw VW Heeler Memorial’ ....W. Fo Paulus..s:chsn.eoee M. G. Zerbe we ee a Blewelv 2 =clOneste..-.5 5 Bis. Lindasy 100 THESIS LORY © Teh i Pap pillioni wees eres Charliet-Drum pb legreeg sees ee SChtry lene. ce ee ere ADYENC. Ink, W@leNNot ee Scribe cia Wie bSiCh mas heen {] SASSI ETO (is © fines eee eee eee S. Ohenalingy IRS IDS GAIA cs PCa RSS net aBr tre 2 20 i le eh 5 S. Omahae R DeMoshers eA Ne ON Ver meres eens qplkewaatallas ee ee hae Jas ae ores Glia xc ae ee Cc. A. Valder Nia ey mee see co eae ree ee REVS en tell marke ee ae ede AiVeWalG yo oh SA oee ies aes AG pee ae loc Btredenh erage. ee VV eerste eee ee eee ee ees Wie Deeb iddo clk == Water O One-s.14ies ian eee ee Carlton Bae Noy ese Wai ea Oe tear cee cee Os EV sBuckeyiecieeac oe eee SYNODICAL WOMAN’S SOCIETY. Along with this group of men must be mentioned the “honor- able women not a few” who have organized and sustained the aid and missionary societies of the churches. Very much of the financial sup- port of the local churches, has been contributed by the labors.of the aid societies, while the missionary societies have raised large sums of money for the extension of the church of Christ at home and abroad under the direction of the Boards of Home and Foreign Missions. The first woman to be named in this connection was Mrs. Henry M. Giltner, the wife of the first Presbyterian missionary to Nebraska, who said to her husband during the critical crisis of their journey, and refusing to turn back, “No, I propose that we go over and pos- sess the land.” The following report has been handed to Synod over the sig- natures of Mrs. H. V. Hilliker, Synodical President of the Woman’s Synodical Society, and Fannie P. Adams, Acting Secretary: Nebraska Synodical Society comes to the close of its forty-sev- enth year of service for the cause of missions. We are grateful for the splendid spirit of cooperation among our women, and the ability that has been shown to go forward in spite of all difficulties. There has been an increasing efficiency in Presbyterial organiz- ations and’many of the local societies are feeling a deepening res- ponsibility along the lines of stewardship and missionary education as well as financially. The strength of the Synodical lies in its six Presbyterial soci- eties composed of 127 missionary societies, 37 Westminster Guilds, 95 Young Peoples and 50 children’s organizations which carry the local responsibility for promoting the cause of Missions, One achievement of the year is shown in the fact that 196 of our young people are tithers and 47 are student volunteers or have signed up for Life Work. There can be no better remedy when we are dis- PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 101 couraged than the thought of the fine young men and women who this year have gone to Yunnan from Nebraska. Fine work was done in the campaign for the Women’s Union Christian Colleges of the Orient. Most of the gifts were small but missions through this campaign have touched many new lives and it now remains for the women of the churches to tie up this newly a- wakened interest and bring these women into our local societies. The fine way in which Box Butte, Kearney and Omaha Presby- terials not only did their share but went “over the top” needs to be mentioned. Of course we must acknowledge a small deficit but even so there was a gain in gifts of $1000.00 over the previous year and we refuse to be discouraged. The requests for speakers and missionaries to “tell the story” have been increasing. Mrs. Bandy and Mrs. Miller, both supported by the women of the state, have had 55 speaking appo’ntments with the President and two Board Secretaries having 70 more. There have been 32 boxes sent to Freedmen schools together with our regular White Cross Work for Taiku Hospital. This is a form of work that is holding the interest of many of our women who prefer to see what is being accomplished, If each one of you could read the letter from Dr. Fletcher, of Orchard, Nebraska, who has charge of! our hospital you would all want a part in our next sh p- ment. This year we are reporting 17 schools of missions with 2465 in attendance. Our goal for this year is “A School of Missions or a Study Class” in every church. It can be done, but only in cooper- ation with the pastors. Then too we are stressing equal quarterly payments of all Mis- sionary pledges and again we are asking the co-operation of the church sessions and treasurers to help us reach our goal. Some of our Presbyterial societies are urging that if necessary, they will borrow the money and pay interest instead of the Board doing so. The review of the work of the past year g ves us courage to go forward, attempting greater things in the days before us that we may in truth, “Go from strength to strength.’ Poe 102 THE HisTORY* OF THE EXTINCT CHURCHES. The following list contains the names of churches that once ex- isted during the past fifty years in the Synod of Nebraska. Ashland Avon Ash Creek Araphahoe Ayr, Mt. Pleasant Alma Anslie Ambler Place, Omaha Ashton Armada Albany Anoka Angora Adelia Alban Brownsville Bethel, Beaver Crossing Belvidere Beulah Burchard Brainard * Bell Creek * Belle Center Boone Bloomington Burr Oak Berg Bethany me Bilair Box Elder Benkleman Bower Bethel, Camp Clark Bromfield Belmont Burbank Ara Aqsaig Nebraska City Kearney ” ” Hastings Kearney Omaha Kearney ” Box Butte Niobrara Box Butte Omaha ” ” Kearney Omaha Kearney Hastings Nebraska City Kearney Hastings Niobrara Kearney peziue3si9 1863 1875 1875 1879 1881 1883 1863 1879 1883 1879 1880 1882 1881 1884 1886 1887 1887 1889 1892 1892 1893 48 sueo’'y JO syuRisy 666 asuefy uo sueOo’'y PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 103 Beatrice, Second Nebraska City 1893 59 800 Bird Wood Kearney 1SO5mne lao OO Bethesda, Plainview Niobrara 1897 10 Bostwick Hastings 1900 18 Buda Kearney 1905127) S00 Big Spring Box Butte 1913 24 800 Bethel, Hartington Hastings 1915 28 Belmar Kearney NOG De Ceresco Nebraska City 1877 20 500 Carlton 7 ns 1879 19 Charleston ye a 1879 17 Clarkeebinst Omaha 1876 Colfax County, Central ‘ 1881 Center Park 32 1882 14 Cache Creek Kearney 1883 15 Catherton Hastings T8827 ur Calvary f 1883 10 Creighton Omaha 1884 13 Cherry Creek Kearney 188545 250 Clinton Niobrar 1891 Crow Butte Box Butte 1896 350 Castle Rock Kearney 1897 Centerview, Broadwater Box Butte 1910 Chappell Kearney 1a Dakata Cty, German Nebraska City 1863 19 Douglas a a 1876 David City 2 3 1882 Daily Branch Omaha Dakata City Kc 1879 13 Driftwood, Cornell Hastings 1889 14 Dorp Valley, Gandy Kearney 1889 15 Exeter Nebraska City 1880 16 Endicott y oe VBS et O aD Elk Valley Omaha 1873 12 Elk Dale Kearney 1875 Elm Creek 4 1876 Elkton « 1881 14 Eaton Hastings 1882 Ebenezer Kearney 1872 Eureka Nebraska City 1886 Elwood Hastings 1887 Elba Kearney 1891 Emmanuel, Glen Box Butte 1896 600 Fuernas Kearney 1875 104 CHE HIS TORYEO raise te Fontanell Fairview Friendship, Stamford Farwell Foster Flats Glengary Goshen Geneva Garrison Glenville Greely Centre Goodman Green Valley Gandy Garfield Grand View, Schuyler Genoa _ Goshen Helena Highland Humphrey Hooper Hainesville Henrietta Harvard Harmony Hardy Hardyville Hartwell Huntington Hartington Haigler Holstine Hope Hayes Centre Humboldt Bohemian Hope Chapel Inman Inland Imperial Kingston Kelso Knox, Salina County Omaha Hastings ” Kearney Niobrara Kearney Nebraska City Kearney ” ” Niobrara Kearney ” Omaha Kearney Nebraska City Nebraska City Omaha ” ”” Kearney Hastings ” Omaha Niobrara Hastings ” Kearney Hastings Nebraska City Box Butte Kearney ” Hastings Kearney ” Nebraska City 1863 1883 1889 1892 1899 1912 1875 1877 1880 1879 1883 1881 1887 1889 1889 1889 1892 1912 1871 1877 1879 1881 1876 1879 1880 1881 1883 1884 1884 1888 1889 1889 1889 1890 1879 1913 1881 1881 1888 1873 1880 1879 10 wo wo w pee Oo © 13 1057 PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. Kearney German Little Blue River Luisville German Little Salt Lost Creek Lone Tree Lambert Liberty La Platte Lilian Lacota Lincoln Third Melrose Mudy Creek Mornence Marysville Maple Creek Millerboro Mentor Middle Branch Myra Valley Marquette Millington Marshland * Mount Olivet, Thurston Mount Olivet Mount Carmel, Dawes Mount Zion, Miller Malmo Nenaha River Norris Nickerson North Loup New Helena Negunda Norden Northport Nesbit Overton, Samaritan Odell Oakdale Oak Creek Osco Olivet Kearney ” Nebraska City ” ” Omaha Kearney Nebraska City Omaha Kearney Nebraska City Kearney Nebraska City 23 ” ” ” Omaha ” ” Kearney ” Hastings 9 Niobrara Omaha Kearney Kearney » Omaha Nebraska City Omaha ” Kearney Hastings Niobrara Box Butte Kearney Kearney Omaha Kearney ” ” 1862 1882 1882 1883 1881 1882 1888 1912 1912 1882 1881 1876 1876 1879 20 1100 105 400 106 Be IST OREO Hair Oak Valley Oses Ohiowa Omaha, Bedford PI. Omaha, Grace Oconee Plum Creek Plattsmouth German Pleasant Prairie Peru Prospect Paragon Pleasant Valley Pleasant Hill Pleasant View Prairie Center Plymouth, North Bend Pine Ridge, Crawford Perch Prague Providence Page Rosefield * Republican City Red Bird Red Cloud Riverton Ragan Redington Rockville Riverview, Henry, Neb. Summit Salem Simeon Swan Creek Sterling Sicily, German Sheiby Stella Silver Creek Saint Helena Spring Ranch South Adams Salem ” ” Nebraska City Omaha ” ” Kearney Nebraska City Omaha ” BBD Nbraska City Omaha Niobrara Box Butte Omaha Nebraska City Niobrara Nebraska City Hastings 9 ” Kearney Hastings Kearney Box Butte Nebraska City Omaha ” Nebraska City German, GothenburgKearney 1882 1880 1887 1894 1890 1896 1863 1872 1883 1883 1877 1878 1882 1886 1891 1893 1894 1907 1909 ing lat 1880 1880 1876 1898 1888 1890 1898 LO 1872 1872 1872 1876 1880 1881 1882 1865 1882 1876 1877 1883 12 22 13 20 14 20 wo (00) ci) (o0) 666 690 400 300 PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. Scotia South Fork, Chambers Sait James Scottsville Stromsburg Sawyer Sunny Ridge, Thurston * Sweetwater Sprague Seaton Strtssburger Union Thornton Tamora Tracy Valley Turkey Creek Tobias * Thayer German Thurman Unity Union Uysses Union Verona Valley, The Weeping: Water German White Cloud Wymore West Point Wisner Waterville West Union, Ponca Willowdale Waveland Woodlawn Williamsburgh West Blue Warnerville Wallace West Albright Willow Creek West Hill Genoa West Grand View Weston Bohemian West Pleasant Valley Kearney Niobrara ” ” Omaha Nebraska City Niobrara Kearney Nebraska Hastings Box Butte Kearney Nebraska City Omaha City Kearney Nebraska City Box Butte Kearney ” Nebraska City Hastings Kearney Nebraska City ” ” ” ” Omaha Kearney ” ” Hastings Niobrara Hastings Omaha Niobrara Omaha Kearney Omaha Kearney 1885 1885 1886 1887 1887 1893 1897 1898 1898 1907 1912 1875 1872 1875 1881 1888 1889 1894 1875 1879 1872 1911 1891 1862 1880 1883 1872 1877 1878 1881 1879 1879 1881 1883 1888 1889 1889 1891 1895 1896 1896 1901 800 300 300 650 200 300 107 108 PHESHISCORY Ohe Ln Es Winside Niobrara 1902 8 Xenia Omaha 1883 15 Zion Grove 4 1894 9 SUMMARY Amount on churches no longer existing $35,848 Amount on manses no longer existing 2,700 38,548 Less 60% probably received by the Board 2oles Amount due from churches reported on this statement as gone out of business, mortgages not yet paid. $ 4,500 SUMMARY. In the face of all the difficulties and hindrances incident to the development of a new country, arising from the lim'ted means, loss of crops, financial stringency, and many, many tears, we today, “pos- sess the land.” During the history of the synod 489 churches were or- ganized. Of this number 202 survive with a total membership of 30,043 communicants, and 27,588 enrolled in the Sabbath schoo's. There were received into the churches: ©) rae Besa ita Ti 1) ee ae ee 60,461 ByrtCertinca tense. ie see ee ed eee 46,734 EhOtalmaccessionss=== 107,195 Presents t Oba milerib C1, cmeee ert eee at eee arene 30,043 Deathsh Dismissed stots p eile came an eee eee mee 77,152 A summary of aid received from the various Boards: Board of Home Missions, We have in our possession a partial list of the churches in the Synod, giving the total amount of aid granted by the Board of Home Missions: : 33 churches aided in the Presbytery of Box Butte ..... $ 74,412.75 28 churches aided in the Presbytery of Hastings ............ 88,065.64 33 churches aided in the Presbytery of Kearney ...........- $ 58,571.00 24 churches aided in the Presbytery of Nebr. City ........ 73,565.99 34 churches aided in the Presbytery of Niobrara ............ 114,043.33 34 churches aided in the Presbytery of Omaha ........... .... 111,967.66 USGechunches warded: tiem y.11 © Climeceeme teeta ee mere $520,627.20 In addition to the appropriations made to the church- es in the named Presbyteries the Board of Home Missions has made appropriations for field men and expenses, dating from 1895 to 1923, amounting to PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN: NEBRASKA, 109 ee eee 91,487.73 Total received from the Board of Home Missions ........ $612,114.93 The Board of the Church Erection Fund. Total aid now on books given since 1889 to Presbytery of Box Butte ............ 1876.10 Presbytery ots Hastings =.2.22 isis to. Bresbytery ot KWearineys 2-2. 1870 to Presbytery of Nebraska City .... 1882 to Presbytery of Niobrara ................ 1870 to Presbytery of Omaha .......... Woe anel whys Cin NOOR once Mortgages on churches which have pass- ed out of existence and which have settled MOL(CAV SS see ack Churches. $35,848.00 Mans CSimeeessee 2,700.00 Mtotaleai Get Om GlitiCh Comet ae eer Payments: On loans, etc. now on DOOKG rea ere ences ee $ 13,774.40 60% of mortgages on ¢church- es and manses gone out of CXIS LEN COgee eee ee eee 23,128.80 SROralmelCe pany i Ctl ices ae eeenes weer Net Aid or amount of Mortgages .......... Education. 713 students for the ministry have been aided by the Board of Education and the Gen- eral Board of Education from 1880 to 1923 INnclusivesatmascost to the: Board of ..:---. Mr. E. R. Sterrett; Treasurer of the Board, says, “Up to the year 1911 none oth- er than students for the Gospel Ministry were aided by the Board, but since that time we have been giving aid not only to them, but also to the Medical Missions students and Lay-workers. $ 34,275.00 $ 36,853.00 40,916.00 27,576.90 42,615.00 46,577.95 For Student Pastor Work since 1911 to date: SS 2h ee Vee ee eee ee ee cee 3 32 31,565.00 $ 938,908.31 TH EAHISTORY sO BLE Bs: 110 gzesoklliir ¢$ — sauoytqsaig pe Aq suonnquyuos ]eI0], 00°999'619'6 ¥ — salialdqsalg [Je Aq sasuadx |] JeuoNesa1SU0D 107 [RIOT gz'Sgo'ZSi‘z & — satiayAqsaig [|e Aq saduajoAauag 40} suONGIUOD [e}0], gzeso'LZd11 $ Ezrlotzh gzzziZvor 6tzzLgo0S1 SS:zgL‘gog't LrgEELLZ1€ gz°Q66'2SL¢ 00°899°O19°6 LSEOSE 116$06 zzztbir ooSoSfotS'1 o0666L9z oo’ €gg‘6g6'z. sasuad xy ‘|, Bu0D Qz°E1g'16 Ez*el OE gz'S1L6 Ob zHEZI $S‘Szoh1 Lr€zogz = gz'ggbbz A[quiass Vy ],Ud+) oo'Szt'rdp gfgil zg6zz o£ 669 tottZ tte16 Lg€10z SNOIJUR][IOSIJ 00° zg zh LL €Sz Lez gol YIOM, SUIT 00'zg5 ce gt ob ter gL1 601 “AIISGO YIeqqes oo'oS$z‘E1 Lig SLE CLt1 bzve Loo pore wIsI[asueAy 00" 1hg‘oz tz6 gogi bloz glzé 9959 16€S aouesadwa yp, 00°$$z'‘z tII goz Col Ege 11S 9Zg ply [eorpouds ooze LT zh v1 gt £99 S69 ‘AIUUW UOTUNd yy oo'bel‘glt 1991 C£gq izZgZ SoSS1 ggLlz gfzgr saSaTjop 00S 1P6L 10cI gzgh Lotg ZoSo1 Coggz 1ZgZz uodwipaaly o0°Z£S‘1 IZ oSz 101 Lg gS uolnejuaysng oo 1oL‘SZ bElz StS S€6L ggozt gIghz 669zz% Jol[ay [elaysrurypy 00'696‘0/ zzgI gg6S $Z06 gzso TIS1z Sgzfz uoloery yony 00°F51‘gg gozt $1601 Lzlz1 9£0S 1 teSlz 9g9Z1 OM JOOYIS “Ss o0'0£0'Lzz 1£0g €ggZ OSb1S SI€ZE 99104 g6€zS uoneonpy Oo'tz$ git Tz 1£0gz oStts gb Zig 9LSL6 gortor —- SUOISSIJ US1940,7 00°295‘S1b Ltgsi SSEoE gf gtS SLoo0L 9$Sg9 g6t6g1 SUOISSI]Y SUIOPY ‘SHONATIOAANAG ggsZz o9$z 1O1e Sot¢ Set O199 LLL [Jou ooyys ‘Ss gobiz tz6 7Qbz gzbz EQve €gz$ g169 sJuRjuy] Zessc biti booz oor eto zo totg s][npy ea hs :CaAZILAVa € boot €Soz Sz6z z1Ze bogt £608 998 sioquiayuasalg be Lot pSzz Izgt g6zs S6L9 616¢1 Lge a}eoyn1a5 1gtog £102 £6£g LSvL Igtol Lttor 99891 uoneuMex yz (ror) (Sgr) (zggr) «= (hégt) = (ELgt) (Lg) Pi eertee 2 ‘|BIOL ‘ayng Xog ‘eleIqOIN ‘sSuynseyy ‘Aouieay “AYQ “GaN ‘eyeWCO “SHIMALAESHad AM AYNYVWWNS Ve PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA, 111 , These figures speak “Now of the days that are past.” And as we compare the great sums of dollars with the number of souls, some one may be tempted to say “what an expensive enterprise is this!” I*or great has been the lay-out per capita. Yet, to God, even one soul is of greater value than the sum total of the millions named in the compilation of these figures. “What shall a man give in exchange for HIS SOUL?” The poet has said of man: “What is the thing of jgreatest price, This whole creation round? That which was lost in paradise, That which in Chrisit is found. “The soul of man, Jehovah’s breath— It keeps two worlds at strife: Hell moves beneath to work its death, Heaven stoops to give it life.” Fathers and Brethren! What a monument has been set up by those who were interested in the salvation of souls which have been singled out with that Heaven paid price, “His only begotten Son.” This great Synod is the monument of our fathers and brethren, wrought with toil, trembling and tears. Around this monument are clustered sacred memories that will cleave to the members of Synod and of our churches until that day when our eyes shall be closed to earthly scenes. We have reason to “Praise God from whom all bles- sings flow,” for the results attained. But the greatest monument will be our own life if we are l'ving to be what our sainted fathers and brethren would wish us to be, to do what they would wish us to do. We are face to face with untraversed country. We have much new ground to break. The wilderness is before us. Let us imbibe the courage of our ancestors. If we drink their valor we shall have cou- rage to stand by the Truth even when liberalism and its followers have gone another way. It is the courage which believes that Truth is God’s leaven of the Kingdom, and therefore indestructible, Cou- rage hung on the cross, but could not be hushed. It blazed the way through death for our salvation at the price of the Blood of the Cru- cified ONE. “For ye are bought with a2 price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s. We must renew the spirit of historical Presbyterianism, a spirit engendered by great convictions and fitted for effective service by an organization engaging the virial powers of awakened and devoted ministry and laity, 112 THEEHISTOR YsOr “Eli OFFICERS OF THE SYNOD IN 1924. Moderator: Rev. George E. Newell, D. D., Hastings, Nebraska. Vice Moderator: Elder James R. Dean, Lincoln, Nebraska. Stated Clerk and Treasurer: Rev. Julius F. Schwarz, D. D., Hickman, Nebraska. Permanent Clerk: Rev. William F. Perry, Fairmont, Nebraska. Temporary Clerk: Rev. James G. Clark, Beaver City, Nebraska. Stated Clerks of the Presbyteries: Box Butte—Rev. Mowrey S. Axtell, Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Hastings—Rev. E. K. Bailey, M. D., Oxford, Nebraska. Kearney—Rev. William James Willis, Kearney, Nebraska. Nebraska City—Rev. William F. Perry, Fairmont, Nebraska. Niobrara—Rev. Irwin G. Smith, Ponca, Nebraska. Omaha—Rev. Walter N. Halsey, Omaha, Nebraska. Eastern Field Secretary: Rev. John W. Pressly,.616 Peters Trust. Building, Omaha. Western Field Secretary: Rev. Robert W. Taylor, D. D., North Platte, Nebraska. Rev. Chas. F. Robel, Field Worker, Omaha, Neb. STANDING AND PERMANENT COMMITTEES. I. Synodical Council: Rev. Benjamin M. Nyce, D. D., Chairman, 13th and “M” Streets, Lincoln, Nebraska. Rev. George E. Newell, D. D., Hastings, Nebraska. Rev. Thomas F. B. Smith, D. D., Central City, Nebraska. Rev. Paul C. Payne, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Rev. E. E. Emhoff, Omaha, . Nebraska. Elder James R. Dean, State House, Lincoln, Nebraska, Elder S. S. Sidner, Fremont, Nebraska. Elder J. A. Lett, Lincoln, Nebraska. Clerk of the Council: Rev. Julius F. Schwarz, D. D., Hickman, Nebraska. II. Standing Committee on Program and Field Activities: Rev. George E. Newell, D. D., Chairman, Hastings, Nebraska, III. Standing Committee on National Missions: Rev. Edgar C. Lucas, D. D., Chairman, Beatrice, Nebraska. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA, 113 IV. Standing Committee on Foreign Missions: Rev. Paul C. Johnson, Chairman, Beaver City, Nebraska. V. Standing Committee on Christian Education: Rev. Donald C. MacLeod, D. D., Chairman, Omaha, Nebraska. VI. Standing Committee on Ministerial Relief: Rev. R. V. Kearns, Chairman. PERMANENT COMMITTEES. 1. Joint Advisory Committee on Comity to Confer with Other E- vangelistic Bodies: Rev. James H. Salsbury, D. D., Lyons, Nebraska. 2. Church Federation: Rev. William James Willis, Kearney, Nebraska. Trugtees of Synod: Elder E. G. Taylor, Omaha, Nebraska, for one year to 1924. Elder S. L. Chapman, Aurora, Nebraska, for two years to 1925. Elder John D. Haskell, Wakefield, Nebr., for three years to 1926. TruStees of Presbyterian Association of the University of Nebr.: A.A. Reed, Malcolm Wyer and Rev. B. M. Nyce to 1924. H. W. Folsom, and Judge J. R. Dean to 1925. Rev. S. S. Hilscher and Rev. Edwin H. Jenks to 1926. REV. WM. F. PERRY, REV ee) on Gem @ ISACR Ke Permanent Clerk. Temporary Clerk. 114 THESHISITOR YeORe OLE INCORPORATION AND STANDING RULES OF THE SYNOD OF NEBRASKA. Article I. INCORPORATION AND MEETINGS. The Synod of Nebraska of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America hereby forms itself into a body incorporate in pursuance of the laws of the State of Nebraska under and by the name of The Synod of Nebraska of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America. Section 1. Unless otherwise determined at the last meeting of the Synod, it shall meet annually on the third Tuesday of October AUROMONGLOGc Miami Section 2. The Synodical Council shall be charged with the task of preparing the business docket of the Synod and the program for its educational, popular and devotional meetings. Section 3. The Pastor and Elders of the church where Synod meets shall be a Committee of Arrangements to make all suitable preparations for the entertainment and comfort of Synod. Section 4. Each annual meet:ng of Synod shall be opened with a sermon or address by the retiring Moderator. Section 5. One-half hour shall be spent in devotional exercises each day at such time as the Council may determine. Section 6. The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper shall be ad- ministered during each annual meeting. Article II. OFFICERS: The Officers of th's corporation shall be the Moderator, Stated Clerk and Treasurer, together with three Trustees. Section 1. The Synod shall elect a Moderator annually. Section 2. There shall be elected three Trustees, one of whom shall be elected for three years, one for two years and one for one yera, and at each succeeding annual: meeting of Synod one Trustee shall be elected for the full term of three years. Vacancies may be filled at any regular meeting of Synod. Section 3. The Synod shall elect a Stated Clerk and Treasurer and a permanent clerk, who shall serve for a period of three years and receive a salary of $150.00 and $25.00 per year respectively. A temporary clerk who shall receive $10.00 shall be elected annually. Section 4. The Stated Clerk of each Presbytery shall be required to furnish the Stated Clerk of Synod, ten days before the annual meeting of Synod, a correct roll of the m‘nisters, churches and clerks PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. E15 of sessions of his Presbytery, also a report for publication in the Minutes of Synod of the number of churches, ministers, licentiates and candidates within the bounds of the Presbytery, together with changes that have taken place during the year. Section 5. The Presbyterial Treasurer shall be required to pay to Synod’s Treasurer the Synodical apportionment not later than the first day of May of each year. Section 6. All property conveyed to and held by the Trustees shall be held in trust for the Synod of Nebraska of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America. Article III. ORGANIZATION, Section 1. There shall be created a Synodical Council to be known as the Council of the Synod of Nebraska. 1. It shall include in its membership the following: (1) A chairman elected by Synod for a period of three yeras. (2) The Moderator of Synod. (3)The Chairman of the Standing Committee on Program and Field Activities. (4) Three ministers and three elders, elected in three class- es from the Synod at large to serve for a period of three years, of whom not more than two shall be from the same Presbytery. At the first election two shall be elect- ed for one year; two for two years; two for threee years. Its Functions and Operations. 2. The Synodical Council shall correspond in function with the General Council of the General Assembly in supervising and car- rying out such executive, administrative and promotive activities as shall be referred to it by the General Council or by the Synod. It shall bring to the attention of Synod, with appropriate recommenda- tions, any matter requiring Synodical consideration and action. These powers of supervision are always subject to the authority of Synod. 3. It shall, when so instructed by the Synod, and subject to the approval of Synod, appoint such Synodical workers as the needs of the Synod may determine. It shall fix the terms of their employment, their compensation and budget needed for their use and generally supervise their work. 4, It shall, subject to the approval of Synod, elect the Chair- man of all standing committees who, if not already a member of the committee, shall, upon his selection, become such. 5. It shall exercise such other supervisory and administra- tive powers as the Synod may from time to time commit to it. 6. It shall prepare the business docket of the Synod and the 116 PHESHISTOR VO Pare te Program for its educational, popular and devotional meetings, a copy of which shall be mailed by the Stated Clerk to each pastor and Clerk of Session ten days before meetings of the Synod. 7. It shall meet regularly in connection with each stated meet- ing of the Synod, and also at the call of the Chairman. 8. The Stated Clerk of the Synod shall be the Secretary of the Council. 9. The expense of the Synodical Council shall be provided by the Synod in the same manner as other Synodical expenses. 10. The Synodical Council shall have power to fill vacancies in membership of Council, Standing Committees and Synodical Of- fices; such appointments to hold office until the next annual meeting of Synod. Section 2. The Synod shall have the following standing com- mittees: 1. Committee on Program and Field Activities. 2. Committee on Foreign Missions. 3. Committee on National Missions. 4. Committee on Relief and Sustentation. 5. Committee on Christian Education. 1. The membership of the standing committees shall be the Chairmen of the corresponding Presbyterial Committees. The Chair- men of the other standing committees of Synod, and the President of the Woman’s Synodical Society, shall also be members of the Com- mittee on Program and Field Activities. 2. It shall be the duty of these committees to carry on, with- in the bounds of the Synod, all the work represented by the corres- ponding agencies of the General Assembly together with any special work that may be assigned to them by the Synod. Section 3. The functions and operations of the Committee on Program and Field Activities shall be as follows: 1. The Standing Committee on Program and Field Activities shall cooperate with the Committee on Program and Field Activities of the General Council through the Promotive Organization of the General Council in carrying out the policies and program suggested by the General Council. 2. It shall be charged spec'fically with the developing of Stewardship, Missionary Education, Every Member Mobilization, the Budget Process and the Every Member Canvass and the dissemina- tion of information concerning the work of the Boards and of the Synod. 3. It shall coordinate all promotional work proposed by the Boards or their representatives and shall correlate the various ac- tivities of all agencies operating within the Synod in a harmonious and unified program. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 117 4. The Chairman shall be the representative of Synod on the Apportionment Committee of the General Council; and this Com- mittee shall receive from the Apportionment Committee of the Gen- eral Council the annual benevolence budget for the Synod and shall apportion the same to the Presbyteries. 5. The Committee shall cooperate with the District Office of the Promotive Organization of the General Council, through which it shall receive the suggested plans and program of the General Coun- cil and every assistance possible for the successful carrying on of its work, and to which it shall send such information as shall be needful for the development of future plans. 6. The Committee shall meet regularly in connection with the stated meeting of Synod. It shall also meet upon the call of the Chairman or the Synodical Council. 7. The expenses of the Committee, other than as met by the Promotive Organization of the General Council, shall be previded in such manner as Synod may determine upon recommendation of the Synodical Council. Article IV. Section 1. The Moderator shall appoint a Vice Moderator and the following temporary committees: (To be composed of 3 mem- bers each) On Bills and Overtures. 2. On Judicial Business. 3. On Finance. 4. On Mileage. 5. On Necrology. 6. On Resolutions, 7. On Minutes. constitute a Committee on Leave of Absence. Section 3. Synod shall appoint a Committee of three persons who are interested in the history of the Presbyterian Church. This Committee shall gather historical data worthy of preservation, and shall cooperate with the Presbyterian Historical Soc’ety of America and shall serve during the pleasure of Synod. Section 4. All Committees of Synod shall report in writing, and all reports of Permanent Committees and of Special Committees appointed at a meeting of Synod, to report at a later meeting ,shall be placed in the hands of the Stated Clerk at least fifteen days before the annual meeting of Synod; such reports shall be printed by the Stated Clerk in the Blue Book, to be ready at the place of meeting upon the arrival of the Commissioners for distribution; such reports shall not be read on the floor of Synod unless ordered by Synod; the 118 THLESH IS LORYSO Faire action thereon to be printed and such extracts therefrom as may be necessary to show the action of Synod. Article V. MILEAGE. Section 1. The railroad fare, or equ’valent, of ministers and elders who are members of this Synod shall be paid as far as possible out of a mileage fund raised by a per capita apportionment among all the churches and no one shall participate in the benefits of this fund who is not in attendance upon the floor of Synod or in active committee service during the full business period of Synod, except when serious sickness or death shall call away from Synod a mem- ber in attendance. The mileage checks shall not be handed out until the closing day of Synod. Article VI. GENERAL RULES AND AMENDMENTS. Section 1. In all matters not covered by these rules, Synod shail be governed in its proceedings by “The General Rules of Judicatories” as adopted by General Assembly, and by ‘‘Robert’s Rules of Order.” Section 2. These rules may be amended by majority vote at any regular meeting of Synod on recommendation of tre Synodical Coun- Section 2. The Stated, Permanent and Temporary Clerks shall cil, or by a two third vote of the members of the Synod when not so recommended. fe N\ oy ® PRESBY'TERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA, 119 SOME PRINCIPLES OF PRESBYTERIAN GOVERNMENT 1. A Presbyterian church is composed of all those who have vol- untarily professed their faith in Christ and been received by the Ses- sion together with their baptized children. 2. The officers are practically of four classes, Pastor, Elders, Deacons and Trustees; all of whom are elected by the congregation. 3. The Session is composed of the Pastor and ruling Elders, and is the only body having power to receive and dismiss members. 4. It is the duty of the Session to have oversight of the members of the church, seeing to it that both in their public and private lives they give evidence of an honest effort to follow Christ. 5. The Session has full executive control of the church in alli its spiritual work so that no society or organization may be effected without its consent, or operated contrary to its advice. 6. The Pastor has control of all the religious services of the church, and is responsible for all that pertains to its teachings and public worship. Duties of Members. 1. To attend all the regular services of the church at all times, unless prevented by some reason which they can conscientiously give to their Master. 2. To contribute of their means to the support of the church in its various lines of work in such amount as they conscientiously believe will be pleasing to their Master. 3. To take up and carry forward such work as the Session of the Church may assign to them, unless prevented by some reason which they can conscientiously give to their Master. 4. Any member removing to another locality should at the same time.take a letter to the church w'thin whose bounds they may be most conveniently and desirably located. 5. Any person once becoming a member of the Presbyterian Church, is under the jurisdiction of the Session of that church until by the act of that Session their names are dropped from the roll or they are dismissed to and received by another church. 120 THEIHISTORY£© baa is GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY VETERANS. i A Pos ‘ MB ea “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” Rev. John Henry Carpenter. The Rev. John Henry Carpenter, Ph.D., D.D., was born in Troy, New York August 26, 1835. He graduated from Carroll College in 1858. Spending two years in the Priuceton Theological Seminary, going from there to McCormick, which had just been organized in Chicago, graduating in 1861. He took a post-graduate course at Princeton the following year. During the summer vacation of 1859, he organized Sunday schools in Coos Co., N. H.. under the auspices of the American Sunday School Union. Following the custom ofstu- dent ministers, Dr. Carpenter was licensed to preach the Gospel by the Presbytery of W’nnebago, Portage, Wis., May tenth, 1860. He supplied several pulpits before his ordination in Horicon ‘n 1862, where he began his pastoral work. During the Civil War he served with the United States Christian Commiss’on in lower Mississippi. He has served as pastor in Wisconsin, Illinois. Ohio, Minnesota, and Iowa. Dr. Carpenter received the degree of Doctor of Philos- ophy and that of Doctor of Divinity from Omaha Univers’ty, Omaha. (His Ph.D. in 1891 and D.D. in 1894). PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 121 Rev. John H. Carpenter. Mrs. John H. Carpenter. On November twenty-second, 1862, Miss Hattie A. Nicholson and the Rev. John Henry Carpenter were married at Horicon, Wis- consin. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. John A. Savage, D.D., president of the Carrcll College, Waukesha, Wiscons’n. Dr. and Mrs. Carpenter came to Lincoln, Nebraska sixteen years ago, on Nov. 1, 1908, after he had resigned from his last active pastorate. Since coming to Nebraska, he has supplied nearly every church in the Presbytery of Nebraska City as well as preaching in many other churches in the Synod. Mrs. Carpenter was born in Wall’ngford, Vt., June twenty-sec- ond, 1840, and with her husband still inaintains the Home Center of Happy Married Life going on sixty-two years. They have a mar- ried son, Dr. George H. Carpenter, living in Chicago, and another son, N. B. Carpenter, whose home is in Counc Bluffs, Iowa. Mrs. Alona C. Little, living in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a daughter. Sixty-two years ago is a good share of life. It was then when Abraham Lincoln was President. Dr. Carpenter was outside the wigwam when Mr. Lincoln was nom‘nated and shook his hand at a reception given him at the Tremont Hotel. The Civil War was not half over. There were no gasoline vehicles of any kind. There were no electric street railways. During these years, monarchies have ris- en and fallen. Republics have taken ther place, towns have been razed and built again, the country has participated in two wars, poles 122 THE HISTORYSOnsI HE have been discovered, life has been revolutionized. Flying machines now soar above the clouds. Telephones, talking machines and radio are the latest discoveries prompting the invention of devices that have made the most remote nations our neighbors, who are now within hearing distance. During all this time this couple has gone serenely on, doing the duty lying nearest. Accepting the new things in their life without question and with great faith in God that all is for the advancement of the great Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ. Even at this writing, Dr. Carpenter responds to invitations to supply pulpits and never hesitates to avail himself of the opportunity to hold high the Risen Christ. Rev. John Merrill Caldwell, D.D. The Rev. John Merrili Caldwell, D. D., was born August 29th, 1839 at Rockland, Maine. He received his diploma of graduation from the Wesleyan University of Connecticut in 1862, after which he spent five months abroad in Egypt and the Ho!y Land. He was licensed PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 123 to preach the Gospel in March 1862, by the Methodist Episcopal Church, and ordained to the Gospel Ministry in 1865 by Bishop Baker. The degrees of A.B., A.M., and Doctor of Divinity were conferred upon Rev. Caldweil by the Wesleyan Universiyt and Union College, Ohio. He was the President of the Mount Morris College from 1867 to 1869, Mount Morris, Illinois. He was appointed as presiding elder from October 1881 to 1884 when the limit for that office was four years. After serving the Methodist church forty years Dr. Caldwell came to the State of Nebraska where he was received in the Pres- bytery of Niobrara. In 1907 he accepted a call to the Coleridge church. In 1910 he was called to Valentine where he served one year, then accepting a call from the Wakefield church. In 1914 Dr. Caldwell found it necessary to go to California because of his wife’s precarious health condition, where she lived but a short time, when she answered the summons of her Savior, While in San Francisco, Cal., Dr. Caldwell supplied the Westminster church until 1920 when he returned to Nebraska rendering supply work one year at Nelson, and two years at Valent'ne. Our Anniversary Veteran has had a unique experience. He has had ten calls since his seventieth birth- day anniversary and two since being eighty years of age. On the twenty ninth day of next August (1924) Dr. Caldwell will be eighty- five years of age. Three uncles, three cousins, an only brother, son and father have been min‘sters in the Methodist Episcopal, Congregation\and Pres- byterian churches. Dr. Caldwell is at the present time in the Marion Home, Newton, N. J. Rev. Edward Halsey Sayre. The Rev. Edward Halsey Sayre, of Gering, Nebraska, was born November twenty-first, 1838, at Southampton, New York. He grad- uated from Amherst College. and from the Princeton Seminary in 1862. Rev. Sayre was licensed April tenth, 1861, by the Presbytery of Long Island, and ordained July fifteenth. 1862 by the named Presby- tery. He rendered his first service on the fore‘gn field in India for seven years up to December, 1869, and spent the summer of 1870 at Southampton, New York. He then supplied the pulpits of several churches in Minnesota, then coming to Iowa in 1876 where he sup- plied the pulpits of Northwood, Lime Springs and Clarksville. Leav- ing Iowa for Illino’s in 1884 he preached at Garden Plain, Newton, and New Salem. After having rendered service in various churches in Brooklyn and adjacent points, Rev. Sayre came to Nebraska where his time was occunied in preaching as a pioneer miss‘onary in Wyo- ming and western Nebraska, preaching in school houses and gather- 124 Pi beni SCO RVeO tert ing the immigrants and forming new church organizations, from 1897 to 1914, Since the last named year Rev. Sayre has lent his service whenever and wherever called to do so, Since Mrs. Sayre was called to her celestial home, the Honored Veteran has been looking forward to the coming of his Master and has many times said, ‘For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better.” Rev. Edward Halsey Sayer. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 125 Nercrologircal. “Well done, thou good and faithful servant — — enter thou into the joy of the Lord.” 126 DHitvH (Ss DOR YR ORSr EE At &rat. aad “From all the saints who from their labors rest, Who Thee by faith before the world confessed, Thy Name, O Jesus, be forever blest. Alleluia. Thou wast their Rock, their Fortress, and their Might; Thou, Lord, their Captain in the well-fought fight; Thou, in the darkness drear, their one true Light. Alleluia. O, may Thy soldiers, faithful, true, and bold, Fight as the saints who nobly fought of old, And w'n with them the victor’s crown of gold. Alleluia. O blest communion, fellowskip Divine! We feebly struggle, they in glory shine; Yet all are one in Thee, for all are Thine. Alleluia. And when the strife is fierce, the warfare long, Steals on the ear the distant triumph-song, And hearts are brave again, and arms are strong. Alleluia. The golden evening bightens in the west; Soon, soon to faithful warriors cometh rest; Sweet is the calm of Paradise the blest. Alleluia. But lo, there breaks a yet more glorious day; The saints triumphant rise in bright array; The King of Glory passes on His way. Alleluia. From earth’s wide bounds, from ocean’s farthest coast, Through gates of pearl streams in the countiess host, Singing to Father, Son and Holy Ghost, Alleluia!” By Bishop William How, 1864. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. wy LIST OF MINISTERS DECEASED. Name Born Ordained Deceased FGVEEENIG LO Oem LOD 11S Onl eereners eee eee tenes ee eee nee ee eee 1876 GEE OTC Came Lait tee reteetente a ceetee eRe a at tg A pelea be SL Tho. ‘1883 aoe eM Va LHICL CIRM CLD IVC IES TY a tea camtas Ae peter can an ged erent hectic 1884 Invenys, Jioabal ADAGGM OE oo seyee dos Lee TSO ee INNES Sa lta ae See Rome OLIN IM os PECDICS fagate Fret ayn ote net L865 ens eee Jul. 30, 1887 IRvengs Spec Tel, ABavovmnyoyonn soe ese ey en LSS See eee Apr. 9, 1887 Rev. Alvin M. Dixon, D.D, Sep. 24, 180)... UNSVS peace Se Deceel lassi IRueiy., JARICARICNM RC) Sop Mehoha Vale) vez on. Jase, Ree teen at easy ee hee Bee ee Oe 1888 Rev pias Wirioh? tyke jE s3 Me ee donee eee ek te ee Nov. 30, 1888 cveme atte lei Kote pines eee eee 1S 2 eevee per ee Dec. 24, 1888 ENG. Vem | SEO LL O.@ Clip tte. kee eet Dale cee ee i Ne Ee es Seek Jul. 2, 1890 Resa ED lis ame Vinee Be vas + 1) 1) aes ce eee eee WAS ace Jhcdl, eh, AES Re vem Vinton blatmilton oA io eel ye 18 1der eee Oct. 1837 Sep. 18, 1891 GNA LOT ALS tye IL erect ae Sie yah es eet ete sae ee 1892 Rev. George W. Newell, .. Nov. 7, 1813.....--..... 13459 ee Aug. 16, 1893 IReeny,, EMlenmiscoya AR, Wixexexeh, Se Ole, BE, WRG ar 1369 eee Mch, 11, 1894 Revere lista re, Chester an IS 0 Geert eee eS Nov. 27, 1893 Pewee eisai eri tio [): Td. te Meat ee enh wee ae I ye od Ee Oe 1894 [ong UOT ID, VERON igesig aces pak ee Oe geen eee een eater. Ae eS 1894 Neve Georce Ss eNicGomb ea ocps 6. 1s 14a abexeyh foo peer oss Nov. 8, 1894 Inear, 1Dehiaidl MVE Vetere Lol eae aX pacek eos oe ee ake . June 26, 1896 Rey sewise) eSSupi soc IMA BO), seals ces. No. 19, 1851.Feb. 5, 1896 Neg Outta Det Kine Sane ae May 237 188Ga-e 1302 eee Sep. 23, 1898 Rev. Edward L. Dodder ... Aug: 28, 1826........ Oct-77, 1856. July 14, 1898 heme ohnngA + Bardill..2.. Jiesa, iN, Te TUBWASS Geese Nov. 24, 1898 evamOlinn Gas chelble: sss el BO (Neem eee ce Scie June 14, 1898 Rev George (W.- Goodale: Ut: 1.831 oa, 1B Seat Bs Sep. 28, 1899 RevemlostatevWcbherriin 22.22 [SSCS ees Sere 2 June 11, 1899 Rewetoomas A. Hamilton 4.A pr., 1830.2 Oc. 29, 1866. Mr. 13, 1899 Ion, lava A, 1EvoNerelke ye yee Ome @ USO. Dec. 3, 1878.Sep. 21, 1899 Prigwe vOpenme es EatteTgon «8a, on a oe ee Feb. 24, 1899 Rev. William Willett Harsha, D.D., : |b 8 ie eee ee eae May 23, 1821... Apr. 1846...June 4, 1900 Rev. William Brittenden Axer ................ Reveal wesiiey, M.D: +Sep, 21,.1831...... iW AU Sess Nov. 11, 1900 SN ie neces See ee Jatigal9y 1862.05 VA pte-20..1892,Sép..1.91901 Revaeawaliam VW. Jones Ss. 32 Onder he estas Oct e127 1901 Pere Anse HEC On e MONTCOMET yesers i. Sokal a: Reever iaitecmiun (sta vesic tet. Oe nye i ee aS Nev. 20, 1902 Revert, A, Giltger, DD ¥e Jan-30,. 1897... May 21, 1855.Ap. 7, 1903 Fe ee OLIN EaITO1Ne. ohOaTl ee ies hse thi oe Pek ee ee May 24, 1903 Diemimtiaticce Ri Cep een e pee fos Mee a Os ie Oe June 8, 1903 THECHISTORY: OF sEHE Rev. Jacob Liesveld =....2- Aug. 4, 1822 Reva Enos ila Da vies. eer ee ieee, WwWoiltienan AP. lesen ooo 1857 Rev. Alexander G. Wilson, D.D. .... 1836 INK Nepse We Jal incvert Ce 1840 Reva Olina bat one Vici wit ciameeeenennen 1835 RevaavViliiame Wack eyes) evict eeeeeerrn ees SER Bn welt Be a gen Ae (Over, i, Teste Iex A WiNinot, 1eyeriny 1eXeK al. a 1833 Reve ameseDinsniores inserts) Danese Beet ers Se ese ter ay eoe Nov, 28, 1839 Rev. William M. Baird ........ Octal sil Rev. David W. Rosencrans -........... 1827 Kev, William Nichol eee 1837 RevasOshiiam Ame 1a cues eeeenee 1831 Rev, Joseph, HenryaMarshallm 2 Reve JohatNe Hicks. ee Apr. 2, 1831 Rev. W. Alexander Pollock .Nov. 2, 1825 Reva Natta tters of a 1842 Rev. James D. Sweeney, ....Dec. 13, 1874 Rev. Frederick W. Witte ... June 9, 1827 Rev. August Reibert -........... Feb. 12, 1850 Reva onne is Baird): Dees ecusu sce Rev. George Williams, D.D. .Jan. 8, 1834 Reve Williiain ete seb asceet ieee eee Rev. Maynard O. Reynolds, .Feb. 2, 1876 Rev. Joseph Wittenberger Mch. 5, 1846 Reeve, holon IL, Iemma Aug. 28, 1829 Rev. Newell S. Lowrie ....... Jan, 28, 1832 Rev ohn vk ePunkis 2 Aug. 13, 1848 Reve Robert Me*L. Braden. bal) ee 1) bk) POs Ween ae Mch, 18, 1849 Rev. John McC, McDonald .Sep. 15, 1833 Reve. Prancis at hompsone eee ee ee Reve We Os rlaseerty ease Feb. 11, 1838 Rev. Frank P. Wigton ...... Dec. 26, 1853 Revy> fon Gilmore/=. 2.4 Oct 25. 1836 Rev. M. B. Lowrie, D.D. .... Apr. 10, 1844 Reve Ernstebs pantcieee eee oat 1868 Rév.- Lacas. A beletiee dere Dec. 17, 1851 Rev. AlexssCorkey,4D.D- 22 Oct37, 1871 Rev. Jacob Brinkema ........ Mch. 2, 1836 Rev. Charles W. Frye ........ Ochasave7 S. on Missionary: WoW Scott ee, Fe oamuel: Cony beater. Deas SAID «rah ty op Ma ta July 7, 1903 Be re cae ee Aug. 18, 1903 Nohese eter ee eer eae Dec. 9, 1903 Sheri as nec e R Ply Aik May 4, 1904 Re life e Nov. 11,-1904 Sa ee eee et Dec. 2, 1904 Sesee Oct. 21, 1885 Dec. 9, 1905 NCW tote eT eee Feb. 11, 1995 = July 1864....Feb. 18, 1906 Fo tk Oc. 16, 1899.jan.. 15, 1907 SO ND Ney Be Mar. 8, 1907 eats Aug. 10 1886.Ap. 14, 1907 en 137512. lune eo eoon darter. Weis) eel fibhoKe aly, IYO cree Au. 26 1866.Sep. 27 1908 bate Nov. 1858....Jan. 11, 1908 ek 1879 .22.. Aug 171909 Eebests May 3, 1901..Jul. 1, 1909 ee Aug, 1873....Dec. 13, 1908 me 1881-242. 3 Apr e4eetg09 ewes Jun. 27, 1865.F eb. 1,°1970 ee ee eee July 5, 1910 EM cys tt 2 thase, Meee Jan. 22, 1910 meee we 188 Ose ol Oem OT() ii ee roe See Oct. 14, 1910 pees IRS AUE eee, Niobe ahem OC, PE WSS. Mie. 12, 1912 tid Ap. 23, 1872.Nov. 2, 1912 ee ae 187902 NOV SG tone Sivie: Jun. 27 1866.May 15 1913 Stake ee eee June 3, 1913 ee eas Oc. 1, 1864..Nov. 11, 1913 sass 1895 NOW el One: aes Jun. 19, 1866.No. 12, 1914 pes 1868 7.20... 5 May) 15y aes teres Eee eC ae Jul. 28, 1915 = wen) Ap. 23, 1874.Sep. 12, 1915 meetin. O90 poets nee Oct. 28, 1914 mes Oct. 187) Octpalovetags ee: M’y .16 1905.May 11 1916 fore 2 eee AE a She Pe June 1916 ce Jun. 12, 1888-..Jan, 1917 PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. Ieee. IRR 1D)» le GaVSes ADDS coe ek ae a ae Dec Aas OmLo02.eDano: Rev. Nels C. Robinson ....Feb. 14, Ikeny, Jf, Wialllievee ILeyAietin —c/eWien ae) abit be ee Oyste, 1163, Rev. Joseph J. Lampe, D,D., Ph.D... Soe ety eee otic, WER Th, USB TOXet, TR. a PAU) eae, Iolo Wy, Teh INO, PO, TER... Ap. 1889 ....May 5, Iker. [folotn Ish, IWMlcopatwexaranenaie 5 Wiles 2h, SUSY oe oe hee Nitkyvaros Oriinelies\ennerw Lh.) eee ines mel S sue Supt. Chris, Ed..Jn. Tena erie iyil lee see Soy ial, Wee Siena May 29 IvevaavWVilleameVWeslawrence, D.Ds see ae Pertenece INOve 9s 18625222 June 12 1920) Sep; 30 Rev. George A. Beith ....... June 9, .1837-_....... Jn. 16, 1908.Aug. 13, Rev. James B. Butter ..... .. Webby, Bil, Tee 5. WSUS @Octwie Teveratesmer as (sChrett el) ieee set Sep Oe LS tinec aes Rev. Thos. L. Sexton, D.D. Mch. 29, 1839... May 9, 1872..No. 29, FVevemelin Gs iow El Untetees 1) 51) en cceence eee Oe i ts el ARS INfony, Tse ibis ME Ce Ae, eh Teer Vie Gen SAW Cot A ht Of) rc te, worse eB e eee nens Sar Searataeobactas Apr. 23, Rev. Wm. H. Cooper ........ Vere, 10, Wee ey TUCWAS casey Aug. 26, Reeves werseye le) Cardy: som news. 187 Gus Sep. 14 1904.Feb. 17 lve, Wath, Telenipisy Isami, IBID, oe srl ad pen IA IDSE, TE USCS eM cee IRS: 110), 1848 129 1916 1918 1918 1920 1920 1920 1920 PAS ANS PA 1921 1922 1922 1922 1922 An €Exhortation to Christian Loyaltu. tm “O come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before God our Maker,” At church next Sunday. If each knew the other as he should, It would forge the chain of brotherhood. We would greet each other on the street, And all come out and be glad to meet, At church next Sunday. You may think you are doing your best, And feel even better than the rest, But your neighbor does not understand, Why a Christian should not be on hand, At church next Sunday. This world is surely a busy place, A constant rush, a continuous race. From numerous cares some are not free, But none so bound that he cannot be, At church next Sunday. We have an interest in our town, The dear old place must never go down, We should disapprove all that is wrong, And help the great mission work along, At church next Sunday. Loyal to our Master we must be, Adoring God: Holy Trinity. In faith to the blood of Christ we look, Preached to us from the inspired Book, At church next Sunday. When all our labors and trials are o’er, When the present time is ours no more, And the past has fixed our future state, Can then we truly say at heav’n’s gate, Lord, love sought thy way At church each Sunday? JSESS: CONTENTS AND INDEX. CHAPTER III. CHURCHES ORGANIZED FIFTY YEARS AGO. Name of Church Organized Page TENA (e206 big ey ee ee ee ee yee on ete 1S ee 174 Beaver G1 ty see stern eee eer S saeseuees US4 les hah scessoies eee 203 Bellewiued 2o cesses eee ee ee eee 1855 wet eee 135 BeGat ri Ce a yee cee ree ee eee ne ee eee 17 te oe Ibi! iBikevelrdoyberal VaRMU . ee get es eee 18 5a 2 ee 38 Centrale Crt yc ee eee eee eee oe TB 2 8b See eee 178 (Colksimmeuis Ieckemeneil . tee L8¥Oiitnne eee 169 Decatur ce sare eee ee diy Gi eee eee erie nt 168 Matgini@ ite Heceta tec mmeestsnaeana eee eeeeeeae L8G. ..cee ee eee 180 Ea ED Ur yee ee ae eee a eee LB 2 zcacec cate geese ee eee ere 182 Fall stuGit ya ecco eee ee ee ee ee 18722. ae Se ee eee 186 Hlorencey Wagela one oh ee ee T8562. 2 eee 141 rer Onit Westen pacer ee ee ee 187.312 eee ee 194 Gib DO lm pa Ma ee eae fe A See DE a 1872.55.55 aero es Grand = island! Se 2 2s ee eee a Ne pee ier A ee mm 154 ELrcheonia ip eee ee ee ies ae eer Loe 1870 Ses ee eee 204 Hopewell (ite en See eee oe 1B74e) coe 202 Flam bold tes ae Oe ee ee ee ee VS Oi se 166 Fl astino:s Sees eae ee ne ee ee TSU Siok. 222 191 Kearney. -.ee Se eee one, 2 ee eee ree US T3822 ee eee 196 [yon tes 3 sh Ae eee ee eee L868. 25. Se eee 149 Mia diS.0 tie ss: a, eee eee eee eee Roy dl eestor teeta im | es 8k 156 Marietta: Sy Sidi Pe tee ene eee 1872: 0.23 ee 159 Nebraskay City =0 4 ee eee eee 1855. ees ee 133 Papillion "235.3 eee ee 199405 ae 201 Pawnee: City cos ee eee 186 6isacc ee 145 Plattsmoutha =. eee ee eee LS 5Sue 8 2c eS 143 PON Cals oret eocee eee et AS TOt. 2h ee ee 157 Schtyler: 4. e in ee eee eee 1869.20 5. ee 156 Seward. weet eee ee ee ee ne ee 182s Lee eee 146 Tecumseh weitere oie a eevee ee IS 72. te ee ee 158 ‘Pekamahor ee See ee ee eee 1869.28 38 Be Bee 152 Wahoos eee eee eee eee 1874.0. 42S 198 'W 00d sRivet ic et eevee etn cere 1872.0. 2 eee 173 MOrk” Seuss nie then Vind me we ema ee ae 18725. 22 ee 188 *Missing, CHAPTER HE CHURCHES ORGANIZED FIFTY YEARS AGO. Presbyterianism in Nebraska City. (1855) On August the tenth, 1855, Rev. H. M. Giltner began his labors as a missionary of the Presbyterian Church in Nebraska City. In the fall of this year, a sufficient number of people had signified ther wil- lingness to join an organization, and accordingly a church known as the “First Presbyterian Church of Nebraska City” was established. ea auwart, ¥ First Church Edifice, Nebraska City. The Rey. Giltner was assisted ‘n the opening exercises on November 1, by Rev. L. G. Bell, of Sidney, Iowa. The constituent members of the church were D. F. Jackson and wife; Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Hall; Mrs. Harriet Anderson, Mrs. Mary Cowles, Mrs. Catherine Cowles, Miss Marie J. Martin, Solomon Martin, David Martin, W. S. Van Doren, Dr. J. C. Campbell, Miss Emily Lorton, Mss Nancy Pearman, Mrs, S. E. Giltner. The first accession to the church recorded is found under date of May 22, 1856, and was followed at frequent intervals by others, prin- cipally by letters from eastern churches, 134 THE HISTORY OF THE At the first election of Ruling Elders, June 23, of the same year, W. B. Hall and William Buchanan were chosen, their names appear interwoven with the church history for several years thereafter, On the resignation of H. M. Giltner, in April, 1864, the church called Rev. James W. Clark as a Stated Supply for one year. He was succeeded by Rev. J. Calvin Elliott, who after supplying the church a year became its pastor June tenth, 1867, continuing in the pastorate to September 19, 1869. He was followed by Rev. J. D. Kerr, who as- sumed the pastorate in October, 1870, and held that position until 1877. From December 1877, Rev. J. W. Dullas supplied the pulpit six months, yielding to Rev. C. M. Cate, who remained in this pas- torate from September 1878, till September 1879. Rev. Robert W. Cleland, of Kentucky, was then installed. At this time the Ruling Elders in office were W. Buchanan, O. W. Parker, George M. Brink- er, L. F. Cornutt, W. W. Smith and N. S. Harding. Pastors serving this church since 1879 were: Rev. L. D. Wells from 1882-1884, Rev. C. D. Jeffries, 1884-1886, Rev. Theodore Hunter, 1866-1887, Revs Thomas kK) Hunter D.19591987-1895" Rev. E. T. Fleming, 1896-1898, Rev. T. W. Leard, 1899-1904, Rev. L. G. Leggett, 1904-1907, Rev. Arthur E, Perry, 1908-1820, Rev. L. R. Patton, 1920-1924, Rev. Ona H. Campbell, 1924- The first church edifice was erected in 1857, and was rated the finest structure of the class then in the Territory. The congregation is today in the possess'‘on of a church edifice valued at $15,000,4 a manse worth $4,500. and other church property amounting to $4,200. The present enrollment of church members is 241 with 150 in the Sab- bath school. Enrollment in the men’s organization is 30, in the Wom- an’s Society 15, Young Ladies’ Guild, 40, and the Women’s Mission- ary Society, 15. The personnel of the Session at the present is made up of W. A. Cotton, S. S. Wilson, M. L. Crandell, D. K. Schmuke, James Welch and D. G. McAlister. The Cumberland Presbyterian church was organized on July 16, 1865, by Rev. C. B. Hodges. Shortly after the organization of the Society five elders, J. A. Lobb, W. W. Owen, Alexander Magers, W. L. Boydstone and J. J. Berwick were elected. In August of the same year Rev. C. M. Love became the pastor of the church for a short time but was soon followed by Rev. C. B. Hodges. In the spring of 1866, Rev. R. S. Reed of Salem, Illinois, accepted a call PRESBY TERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 135 The New Edifice, Nebraska City. from the church and became its pastor October 28, of the same year. It was at this time when they erected their house of worship at the corner of tenth and Laramie streets and dedicated with appropriate ceremonies in December 1867. After three years Rev. Reed resigned his position to become corresponding secretary of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. This occurred in the fall of 1869, and Rev. Reed died the following year. Rev. Green of Kentucky was the pas- tor in 1869. History of the First Presbyterian Church, Bellevue, Nebr. (1855) Bellevue is a historic spot. In 1804, when Lewis and Clark made their expedition up the Missouri, by appointment of the U. S. Gov- ernment, to explore the Louisiana Purchase and to formulate some knowledge of it, one of their stopping places in what is now the State of Nebraska was Bellevue. The first white settlement in the ter- ritory was made here in 1810 by traders known as the American Fur Company, establish ng a trading post. An early name for the place was Fort Lissa or Lesa, but soon became known as Bellevue. Of course, in these earlier years, Indians were the chief population. Col. Peter A. Sarpy seems to have settled at Bellevue as early as 1824, and became the distinguished Indian trader from whom Sarpy County took its name. *SI119UIIDS pue yoinyd) dNAV]][9QG PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. SHS In 1834, Rev. John Dunbar and Mr. Samuel Allis located a Presbyterian Mission at Bellevue among the Omaha Indians, In 1846 Rev. Edward Kinney selected in Bellevue the site for the Paw- nee Mission and in 1847 began the mission building, which was com- pleted in 1848. This bu‘lding was on the lots now the site of Mr. Martin’s residence. Back of Mr. Martin’s residence may still be found a depression which was the cellar of the Mission, The build- ing was of logs, containing ten rooms. The well was dug between the two wings. In later years the building was weatherboarded and plastered. Rev. Wm. Hamilton, who was graduated at Washington College, Pa., after studying theology, came to Iowa in 1837 as a missionary to the Iowa Indians. In 1853 he was transferred by the Board of For- eign Missions to the mission to the Indians at Bellevue, and arrived here with h‘s wife and family June 6, 1853. After Mr. Hamilton’s coming, white settlers began to be more numerous and there were necessities for a church. In 1855, in May, a church was organized with James Allen as Elder. The number of members is not known. This was the first church organized in the State; the meetings were held in the m’ssion building. In 1856 the present church building was begun and the walls of stone and cement were erected that season. The building was completed the next year. Mr. Joseph S. Betz and Mr. A. Storrs laid the floor and made the seats in the spring of 1858, and got the building ready for use as a house of worship. The vestibule and tower were built a number of years later by Hon. H. T. Clarke. As to the organization of the church, there seems to have been a reorganization in 1858 on April 30. The occasion of this seems to have been some opposition fo the first elder—Mr. Allen—and he was not recognized in the reorganization, when Mr. Wm, McLaughlin was made Elder. The fact that time of the first organization are attested, not only by witnesses still living, among whom are the present elders, Joseph S. Betz and George S. Burtch, but by the early records of the or- iginal Synod and Presbytery. These records state that the church at Bellevue was organized in 1855 in the Mission building and that the church was erected in 1856, After the elders above mentioned, the next elders to be elected were Joseph S. Betz, Henry T. Clarke and Samuel Allis, who were elected on April 2, 1864. In 1884 J. C. Smith and S. J. Calhoun were elected elders. In 1888 George S. Burtch and H. B. McClosky were added to the eldership. The present session consists of ruling elders A. D. Short, John Williams, John Tideswell, John Frazeur, Allen Fra- zeur and Arthur Bachelder. 138 THE, HISTORY OF THE The Rev. William Hamilton was the first pastor or stated supply and continued to be Moderator of the Session until 1866. Then Rev. M. Hughes was stated supply till 1870; then Rev. George L. Little until 1874; then for six months Rev. James R. Brown. Rev. Joshua Raile took charge September 1, 1875 and continued for four years. Then Alpha Wright began to serve the church November 1, 1879, and seems to have continued to 1884. Then followed Rev. William Mc- Candlish as an occasional supply. In 1884 Rev. W. W. Harsha, D.D., became the pastor and continued until 1888; then Rev. W. D. Mc- Farland served the church two years; followed by Rev. Wm. R. Henderson for a year and a half.. Rev. James D. Kerr accepted the call of the church and began labors December 1, 1891 and continued for four years. Rev. David R. Kerr, D.D., and Rev. Ernest A. Bell supplied the church until Rev. Charles A. Mitchell, Ph.D., took up the work October 1, 1896. Rev. Charles K. Hoyt supplied the pulpit from August 1, 1897 to 1898, when Dr. David R. Kerr returned and ministered to the church for a year. Pastors who have since oc- cupied the pulpit are: Rev. Stephen Phelps, D.D., 1899-1900, Rev. Charles K. Hoyt, 1900-1902, Rev. Frederick A. Gates, 1902-1904, Rev. Stephen Phelps, D.D., 1904-1916, Rev. Robert B. Raup, 1917-1919, Rev. Paul G. Luce, 1920-1921, Rev. C. H. Russell the present pastor, accepted a call in 1922. The church owns a tract of land one block long and half a block wide on which is located a modern manse and the orig'nal church edifice to which substantial addition has been made. It will ac- commodate about three hundred and fifty persons. In 1891 trustees were elected, and successors were elected at annual meetings each year thereafter, held the first Wednesday of December. From Bellevue as a center radiated lines of miss‘onary activity, which reached to Plattsmouth and Nebraska City, on the south, and to the Omaha village; Florence and DeSoto on the north. Steam- ers visited these places regularly, an extensive fur trade was carried on between these towns and Sioux City, Iowa, and the missionaries used the river boats as a mode of travel. Blackbird Hill Presbyterian Church at Macy. Nebr, In the year 1855 the Omaha Indian tribe was removed to a re- serve eighty miles north of Omaha and thirty miles south of Sioux City, Iowa, along the Missouri River.! This reservation is ap- proximately twenty miles long and twelve miles wide and inhabited PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA, 139 by about 1,400 Indians, occupying their allotted farms. This con- stitutes the field known as Blackbird Hill Presbyterian church. The church is located at the Government Agency called Macy, which is nine miles east of Walthill, the nearest railroad town. on the Burling- ton road. In 1856 at a beautiful spot on the named reservation, now Thurston County, Nebraska, the Rev. William Hamilton built a miss‘on building. This mission school he visited once a year or oftener, during the time he lived in Bellevue. In the spring of 1867 he removed to this place, and taking full charge, maintained the boarding school in a flourishing condition. Blackbird Hills Presbyterian Church, Macy, Nebr., Where the Indians Worship. A church was organized and maintained, many members being received, so that in 1884 only four churches in the Presbytery of Omaha had a larger membership than the Indian church at Black- bird Hill. In the autumn of 1880, Father Hamilton, (as he was called by the Indians) left the Mission and removed with his family to Decatur. Quoting his own words, he said, “I live in Decatur, a town adjoining the Omaha Reserve, and am near my Ind'‘ans who will not go to the mission. As I go from house to house to read a portion of God’s Word, and sing and pray with them in their tongue, giving such in- structions as I am able, I have to travel from fifteen to thirty miles a day, and talk and read and sing as much as would be equal to preaching three or four times on the Sabbath. And I spend all the time I can get in the study of the language, in translating and re- vising, and whatever else may be necessary for my work, I enjoy 140 THE HISTORY OF THE my work and expect to spend the remainder of my Wiieran it-"ea ts wish was that he “might die in the harness,” which was granted. He departed this life September seventeenth, 1891, by a stroke of par- alysis, being more than eighty years of age. Father Hamilton was born in Pennsylvania and was the young- est of eleven children, all of whom, with one exception, lived to a ripe old age. His father was killed by the Indians while he was at work on his farm, yet the Indians had no warmer friend than his father. In 1868 Rev. Father Hamilton’s wife was thrown from a buggy and fatally injured, dying after a few days. Of four children the only son, William W. Hamilton, survives. In September, 1869, Father Hamilton married his second wife, Miss Etta D. Hunting, daughter of Deacon John Hunting, of East Corinth, Maine, To this union two daughters were born. Lottie and Juliette and a son John, who with the widowed mother survive. Rev. Father Hamilton was succeeded by Rev. Jopley. Rev. W. A. Galt, Rev. Findley and Rev. George A. Beith. When Rev. Beith and his wife accepted the commission to take charge of this congregation they first lived in a little cottage which was not suited for a manse. Near the church was a larger residence which had been built by the Government for the Agent’s home. Through the influence of Rev. Be'th the Indian Department at Washington, D. C., executed papers to have this building sect aside for the use of the missionary The capacity of the church being too small for the congregation, Rev. Beith set to work to raise the building and put in a basement, installed a furnace. Then he built an addition of twenty by twenty feet. Remodeled and repainted both inside and out side. Put in a new light plant costing $150 purchased a new organ and pulpit furniture. The Indians became interested and paid the bills for new art glass windows. In all about $2,500 were spent for improvements, the larger part of wliich was given by the Indians. Rev. and Mrs. Beith succeeded in gctting the Department to grant an allotment of ten acres of ground for the use of the mission. This was used as an experiment field. A small piece of alfalfa was sown, which led the Indians to put in larger field of the seed. The Second Presbyter’an church of Carlisle, Pa., furnished the money to engage a helper for whom a home was provided just across the road from the manse. Rev. and Mrs. Beith discovered that they had overtaxed themselves in the endeavor to meet what they hoped to accomplish and were compelled to yield the field and accepted a call to the Winnebago Presbyterian church in 1917. The Rev. J. J. Britell was the immediate successor and served the church until 1920, at which time the present pastor, Rev. Robert McElwee accepted the charge. The church has e’ghty enrolled communicants and a Sabbath PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA: 141 school of forty. There are twenty-five members in the Ladies Mis- sionary Society. The church property, including manse, church e- quipment and the interpreter’s house has a valuation of almost $8,000. The names of the Ruling Elders composing the present session are Levi Levering, Hi. Walker, Dan Walker and Thomas McCauley. No man can measure the fruits of the untiring efforts of these faithful missionaries; eternity alone will reveal them all. The general effect upon the tribes has been wonderful. A great many of the tribe have been educated and Christian‘zed. Presbyterian Church, Florence, Nebraska. (1856) From Bellevue as a center radiated lines of missionary activity, which reached to Plattsmouth and Nebraska City on the south and to Omaha village, Florence and DeSoto on the north. A mission was started at Florence—the largest city in Nebraska at that time— and at Omaha village. In the spring of 1856 the Rev. Eben Blachly moved to Florence from Lodi, Wisconsin, and a church was organ- ized with flity members. First Presbyterian Church, Florence. No church building was provided, but the little band worshiped at the homes of the members and in such buildings as could be pro- cured. Many ministers served the church during its early history. 142 THEsHIS TORY. OF shri One in particular might be mentioned, the Rey. Simeon Peck, wiio lived in Florence eighteen years, but who had charge of the work in Florence, Louisville, Bellevue, Sioux City, Nebraska and Clarinda, Iowa, for twelve years, when he was honorably retired from act:ve service on account of advanced age. From 1874 to 1895 there was little reported and the work was almost abandoned by the Presby- tery. On March fourth, 1895, the church was reorganized with ten members. They worshiped in the City Hall until November four- teenth, 1897, when the First Presbyterian Church of Florence was dedicated. The charter members were Charles G. Carlson and Mrs. Carlson, Mrs. Lizzie Reynolds, Mrs. Annie Neilds, Miss Mary Neilds, Mrs. Maria Archerd, Mrs. Lizzie Eastman, Warren Eastman, William R. Lichtman, Jr., and Mrs. Laura Lightman. Other members who faithfully bore the burden of the church’s early struggles are Mrs. Lizzie Reynolds-Griffith, Mrs. Thomas Price, Mrs. Prudence Tracy- Wedge, Mrs. J. P. Brown, Mrs. James Kindred and Mrs. Troed Swanson. The following ministers have served this church: Rev. Eben Blachly, 1856. Rev. A. S. Blingsly, 1857. Rev. G. P. Bergen, 1858. Rev. Simeon Peck, 1860. Rev. George D. Stewart, 1872-1874. After the reorganization in 1895 the following served the church: Rev. Warren F. Eastman, 1895. Rev. William Barnes Lower, 1895. Rev. Robert T. Graham, 1898. Rev. F. C. Phelps, 1900. Rev. Kenneth McInnes, 1901. Rev. M. A. Camp, 1902. Rev. James A. Clark, 1903, Reva Kesh Cardy 41904 Rev. D. B. McLaughlin, 1905. Rev. James A. Slack, 1906, Rev. James Rayburn, 1907. Rev. William Amos, 1909. Rev. George Sloan, 1910. Rev. James B. Butter, 1911-1918. Dur'ng the pastorate of Rev. Butter the membership increased to one hundred and sixteen members. The church building was en- larged and beautified. New Sunday school rooms were built, the basement enlarged for class work, the auditorium redecorated, and a piano purchased. On January twenty-fourth, 1915, rededication ser- vices were held. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA, 143 The Rev. Leonard R. Patton succeeded Rev. Butter in 1918 and accepted a call from the Nebraska City church in 1920. IeNie Leh, MANY Graham came on the field in 1920, He was succeeded by the present pastor, Rev. Albert B. Vanderlippe, Ph.D., in 1924. The Elders at the present time are: Charles G. Carlson, John J. Freytag, Will E. Thompson. The Trustees: Robert Cone, R. H. Olmsted, F. H. Allis, H. W. Harrington, Piao clelinich ap Vie renole: The Deacons: W. A. Yoder, T. P. Herskind, Will Steyer, James Kindred, Will Alexander, Plattsmouth Presbyterian Church. (1858) The Plattsmouth Presbyterian church was organized May 8th, 1858, as the result of a wave of prayer that spread over the country, extending into the territory of Nebraska. Follow'ng a series of meetings, conducted by the Rev. Daniel Lawrence Hughes, this pio- neer missionary of southwest Iowa, organized the church with sixteen charter members, namely, Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Carmichael, Mr. John G. Hayes, Mr. J. Newton Wise, Mr. and Mrs, David Jardin, Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Lauther, Mrs. Margaret Winchell, Mrs. Lucy J. Martin, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Mitchell, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Max- well, Mrs. Mary A, Walradt, and Mrs. Catherine McMaken. This was the fourth church organized in the territory of Nebraska. The church has been served by the following ministers: Rey. David Lawrence Hughes from 1858 to 1864. He added 49 members, bringing the membership to 25. Mr. John K. Demarest, a licentiate, served the church during the summer of 1865. Also James Johnson Coale, another student, served the church during the sum- mer of 1866. Rev. William Hamilton, a missionary to the Omaha tribe of Indians, was pastor from 1866 to 1867. He added 19 members and left the church with a membership of 42. Rev. C. D. Roberts, a licentiate from West Virginia, served ihe church from 1867 to 1869. 11 members were added leaving the membership 48, and a Sabbath school of 120. Rev. Daniel W. Cameron, was pastor from 1869 to 1872. 35 members were added leaving a membership of 56. The Rev. William T. Bartle became pastor elect for the term between the years of 1872 and 1875. | The Rev. Dr. John T. Baird then became pastor and served the church for thirty years. Under his pastorate 368 mem- bers were added bringing the membership of the church up to 156, and the Sunday school to 149. Rev. Dr. James H. Salsbury, served the church from 1905 to 1909, raised a debt of $7,444 and added 109 144 THE HISTORY OF THE members, bringing the total membership to 214. Rev. M. Wallace Lorimer supplied the church for 11 months in 1913. 9 members were added. Rev. Harry G. McClusky became pastor of the church in 1914. He is the present pastor and has added 260 members, leaving a net. total of 239. The Sabbath school has a membership of 214, and the young people’s society numbers 53. The woman’s mission- ary society has a membership of 27 members. In the last nine years the church has given to benevolences $5,855. | SUEEEEREEE TEESE First Church, Plattsmouth, Nebr. A school house first served the church as a place for services. A brick church was built where the Hotel Riley later was erected and gave service for thirty-three years. In 1889 the present structure was erected at a cost of $18,000, containing a pipe organ costing $1000, Rev. McClusky also ministers to the members ot the Cedar Creek church, which is about ten miles from Plattsmouth. The present Elders of Plattsmouth church are: S. S. Chase, C. A. Rawls, J. M. Robertson, D. B. Ebersole, Frank Shopp, Glenn Perry. The Trustees: Will Warga, D. C. Morgan, T. H. Pollock, John Gorder, Frank Cloidt, J. M. Holmes. The Deaconesses: Mrs. Frank Shopp, Mrs. John Wolff, Mrs. Si. Case, PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 145 Pawnee City PreSbyterian Church. (1866) The Pawnee Presbyterian Church was organized July fifteenth, 1866, by Rev. Henry M. Giltner and Luther Hoadley, as a Presby- terial Committee, with the following members: Joseph S. Woods, Mary Woods, Hugh Wright, W. F. Wright, Maggie Wright, Mrs. S. E. Giltner, Robert Kirkpatrick, Maragaret Kirkpatrick, Alexander Allen, Margaret Hanna, Eliza Lindsley, and Mary Taylor, Since Rey. Giltner’s incumbency, Rev. Andrew Herron, Rev. Mr. Chambers, Rev. G. W. Goodale, Rev. J. Baker, have successively occupied the pulpit. None of the ministers mentioned above were in the relation of pastor except Rev. Giltner. First Presbyterian Church, Pawnee City, Nebr. For many years the growth of the church was not encouraging, particularly after enough members were taken from the Pawnee City church to organize one at Summit, eight miles west, and another six miles south called Ebenezer. The Rev. Nthaniel Chestnut was installed in 1882, when the ses- sion was composed of the following Ruling Elders. G. W. Potts, BH? Fuller, D. C. Stratton, ‘W. C. Henry, and J. L. Edwards. The Trustees were D. D. Lee, E. S. McMaster, R, Holben, D. C. Stratton, ele dwatds: 10 146 THERE IS LO RYO bei fe Ministers who have been pastors and supplies since the resigna- tion of Rev. Chestnut in 1885 are: George Milton, from 1886-1887. J. W. Fulton, 1887-1892. Henry N. Dunning, 1892-1896. W. Roland Williams, 1897-1899. J. M. Campbell, 1900-1904. Allen R. Des Jardin, 1904-1907. Rudolph Caughy, 1907-1911. Hugh Roinson, 1911-1918. Paul C. Payne, 1919-1924. D. C. Stratton was elected Elder on September 2, 1871. The first church edifice was dedicated in 1872, at a cost of $1,200, situated then on the south side of the square. It was removed to its present location in 1877. At that time the entire property, includ- ing the manse, was valued at $3,000. At the present time the con- gregation owns a beautiful and modern equipped church, built in 1886 and remodeled in 1905; also a manse with every modern con- venience, The total valuation of the church property is estimated at $25,000. The present officers of the church are: Ruling Elders, W. R. Smith, G. A. Harrington, A, Hy Latin, J, Cy Petréay Peter Denzel Wilson, Will’am Benz, L. W. Harrington and W. S. Potts Trustees: A. E. Benz, President, K. S. Wherry, Secretary, Mrs. A. B. Edee, J. F. Liebendorfer, J. H. Pyle, John S. Lowe and Mrs. ORR owe J. A. Petrea is superintendent of the Sabbath school. There are five societies: Women’s Missionary Society, ........ Mrs. D.-E. Wherry, Pres. Ladies Aid tSociety eee Mrs. Elizabeth Fuller, Pres. Junior ndeay ote eee Miss Bernice Wherry, Supt’d. Young People’s Society of C. E...Miss Bernice Wherry, Pres. Westminster Guild, Bessie Smith Chapter ..Mrs. M. B. Smith, President Dorcas® Glia pt fig sce ee ee ee Miss Mary French, Pres. Seward Presbyterian Church. The Presbyterian church of Seward, Nebraska, was organized July 25, 1868, by Dr. William McCandlish, who was sent out by the Huntington Presbytery of Iowa Synod. There were eleven charter nyembers coming from just two families—the Inlay and Wooley families. As often happened in those early pioneer days it was some time before a settled pastor was secured. During the summer of 1870 Rey. Geo. B. Smith, a student from a theological seminary located PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 147 Presbyterian Church, Seward, Nebr. at Pittsburg, Pa., supplied the field. His successor was Rev. Alfred Marvin, who was in charge only six months, Having finished his theological course in the seminary, Rev. Smith returned to the field in May, 1871 and continued on the field until the spring of 1876. This first pastorate was a notable one in many respects. The pastor bought a farm two miles west and a half mile north of Seward on which he erected buildings and made his home while serving the Seward congregation together with some three or four other points in the county. Much credit is due him for the erection of the church building which was dedicated May 22, 1872. The following day he was installed as the first pastor of the church. Rev. Smith secured donations for this building from friends in the East, especially from the Liberty Presbyterian church near Wabash, Indiana, which added to a grant from the Board of Church Erection made the church home a possib lity. Prior to the erection of the church services were held in a school house located on what is now the north side of the square. Interesting facts connected with the building of the church are fur- nished by our townsman, John W. Figard, who informs us that all the lumber had to be hauled overland from Lincoln, which was then the terminus of the railroad. As many of the streams were without 148 THE HISTORY OF THE bridges this was no small task, and Mr. Figard knows, for he was one of the teamsters. Rev. Enoch Benson, Ph.D., was pastor from 1877 to 1082. His also was a notable pastorate since he was on the field during the formative period of Seward and Seward county. Perhaps the most interesting letter in our possession is one from his pen which tells of the period when the community was emerging from pioneer to more settled conditions. Dr. Benson tells us in his letter that he preached at eleven different school houses while pastor at Seward. Under his pastorate the church at Staplehurst was organized and the building erected. He also led in organizing the Tamora church. At the latter place an abandoned saloon building was bought and used as a church until a building more fitting could be had. The third pastor was Rev. Thomas L: Sexton, D.D., who came in 1882 and remained until 1886, when he resigned to become super- intendent of Home Missions for Nebraska Synod. Dr. Sexton brought good business methods into use during his pastorate and as a result the church came to self-support. Following Dr. Sexton’s resignation in 1886 the church seems not to have greatly prospered until 1902. During this period there were six different pastors on the field. These were Revs. Darley, Chest- nut, Little, Wolfe, Boude and Stuart. Perhaps the reason for this condition was the organization of the Congregational church re- ceiving a part of the membership of the Presbyterian church. This division so weakened the church that it was next to impossible for it to meet its financial obligations. Rev. George F. Williams was pastor from 1902 to 1905. Rev. Williams succeeded in getting the church moved from the location now occupied by the Cattle residence to the present location. This move also provided a manse as there was a residence on the lot which was moved over and has since been used as a manse. This move seems to have been a good thing. Rev. Williams received into the church 36 new members during his pastorate. Rev. George Williams, father of the preceding pastor, served the church from 1905 to 1909. During this pastorate the manse was re- modeled into what is now its present condition. Rev. J. C. Ambrose was pastor from 1910 to 1912. Twenty-three new members were received into the church by Rey. Ambrose. Rev. C. M. Rohrbaugh became pastor in 1913 and remained until the latter part of 1917, Brother Rohrbaugh did a splendid work. He is to be given credit very largely, for remodeling the church at a cost of about $4000. It was also during his pastorate that the pipe organ was installed. During his pastorate 68 members were added to the roll, among them some of the best families connected with the church. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 149 The present pastor, Rev. L. J. Lewis, came to the work in Jan- uary, 1918. The work of this pastor speaks for itself, but perhaps it is in order to say that during this pastorate church and manse have been improved at a cost of $1200 and 107 new members have been received into the church. In connection with the Seward pastorate Rev. Lewis has been supplying the church at Staplehurst and has been instrumental in reviving that church and strengthening the mem- bership, both spiritually and numerically. Rev. James W. McGee is devoting his entire time to this church. Officers of the Seward church: Milglerss 12, 12, Wilewaarayer,. Wi, FA, WW, IDewaic, So IDS ZNuieioy 13, 4). Erford, R. P. Belden and H. D. Landis, Clerk. ‘hegstecss s)2eb- Crouse, loi Ostet. Ge beck iLioyd Snuth, J. L. Miller and Horace Wolf. The Presbyterian Church at Lyons, Nebraska. (1868) Lyons is a flourishing town of about 1250 in Burt County, on the Burlington, and the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis and Omaha rail- roads. It is on Logan Creek in the tar-famed Logan Valley. The first permanent settler in the Lyons vicinity was-Josiah Everett, who, with three brothers, located in July, 1866. Abouth th: same time also came Peter McMullen, M. Wiltse, and R. S. Hart to select homesteads = Remote First Presbyterian Church, Lyons, Nebr. 150 THEAHISTORY FOr oOE but did not settle until 1867, In 1868 came the Levi Richardson family, and about the same time camee the Morters and O. S. Comar. In 1869 came Waldo Lyons from Arizona, Burt County, and for him the town was later named. The Lyons Presbyterian church was organized by Rev. J. M. Peebles, September 27th, 1868. The first actual move toward the building of a church .was one frosty morning in the early spring of 1879 when Joel S. Yeaton and Franklyn Everett h’tched onto the running gears of their wagons and drove over to the Iowa bottoms for cottonwood timber for sills. They crossed the river at Decatur, and just as they reached the Nebraska shore with their last load, with a mighty crash the ice in the river broke up for the spring. It was a frightful sight, as they gazed out upon the turbulent waters, beaten into spray by the huge cakes of ice roaring and crushing together. It was an awful sight when they contemplated what might have been their fate out there only a few minutes before. Dr. J. M. Peebles was an eye witness to the occurrence, and asked what thos logs were for. “For a church,” was the reply. “That accounts for it,” he replied, “had those logs been for firewood your bodies would be out there in those turbulent waters. It is a miracle.” Since Rev. J. M. Peebles’ incumbency the following min‘sters have rendered acceptable service in tie congregation: Rev. J. C. Sloan, Rev. C. Van Ostenbrugge, Rev. Hugh McNinch, Rev. J. V. Find!ay, Rev. Geo. R. Lunn, Rev. J. B. Miller, Rev. John W. Morgan, Rev. Benjamin F. Pearson, Rev. James G, Clark, Rev. J. E. Spencer. The present pastor, Rev. J. H. Salsbury, D.D., reports a mem- bership of 296; an enrollment in the Sunday school of 230; a Ladies’ Aid Soc’ety of 80; a Woman’s Missionary Society of 50. The present edifice is a modern and well equ pped; it is rated as one of the most commodious in this section of the state. It was erected in 1893, and has always been kept in excellent repair. The congregation also has a most commodious manse, modern in every particular. It is one of the best residences in the town. One member, George White, entered the ministry of the Baptist church and has taken high place in the administrative forces of his denomination. He was the son of Elder A. J. White, long a member of this congregation, The present session consists of the following: A. U. Crellin, Clerk, J. W. Martin, Dav'd Harvey, Henry Fleck, Emory Clements and J. E. Jenkins. The Lyons church has always been a conservative, but at the same time one of the most substantial congregations in the north- east part of the State. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 151 The Presbyterian. Church at Beatrice, Nebr. (1869) Through an appeal by a published letter in an eastern paper, written by Reuben L. Blodgett, attention of the church at large, and of the Board of Home Missions was called to the wants of this field. This led to the sending as Home Missionary to this place, Rev. Ben- jamin F. McNeil. Services were held at first in the old schoolhouse. The work of Rev. McNeil resulted in the organization ot the First Presbyterian church of Beatrice, Neb., March 17, 1869. Its organizing members consisted of five in number, Mrs. Sarah Ann Blodgett, Mrs. Mary Griggs, Miss Anna Griggs, Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Weeden. Mr. Weeden was ordained as Ruling. Elder The first Trustees appointed were H. A. LaSelle, Robert H. Weeden, Reuben L. Blodgett and Nathan Blakely. First Church, Beatrice, Nebr. The church was organized under the Missouri River Presbytery. Through the efforts of Rev. McNeil and the Trustees, lots were pur- chased, for a buNding site, at the corner of fifth and High streets. The result of solicitations for aid, at hcme and in the east, with the grant of $1600.00 by the Board of Church Erection, enabled the church to erect a \house of worship. The upper story was enclosed, but left unfinished until 1879, the basement being used for services. This building was wrecked in 1983, and the present structure e- rected in its place, and dedicated Feb. 25, 1894. John H. Blodgett, a son of Reuben L. and Mary Ann Blodgett is still an active member of the church. The names of the min‘sters, in their order, that have supplied this pulpit are: Benyamine bine. GIN Clearer seemeeee teen i oe eee St eee 1869-1872, FATES me AME Crit CG mee seemenett tenant ren Gr eet nV es ee 1872-1873, BGT OTT ASE SS Ie Vek | Mepee eeee ens eee ete ee ee ee ee ees 1873-1876, eee Veo yt OC Kye ce eter BY Ste ee aE ee ns a ee 1877-1878, NU TERI, “SUING SS aps etc Pate tah ne As deat eet 1878-1879, 152 DHESHISTORYSO RS THE Hirai SPs Witt jects seeks ee cee, tee ee eS 1879-1880, A Tberts Bp w iin, Se oe cs ee ae cee oe ee 1881-1886, Olin Nee Mill Sk re eee cree ee ee, eee eee eee 1887-1892, John De Counteriim er sececcsererecs oer ee eee 1892-1897, ‘ohn @H God Meta se? 5 es eee a eee ee 1897-1900, Wrilliana VHA earns. Scie. tires teers th aot re sn coteeaceme cna a een ee 1901-1908, Leone DY iou niente a ee eee 1908-1914, INSP Patt CS Ot secs see soe oes ee re ese ere ee ee 1915-1917, Ee Col uCas ieee si ee ee ee Le een eee 1917-1924, Ross ”S.M.c Cow ne eee ee 2 ewe are ee eee 1924- Mr. F. B. Sheldon, Clerk of Session, Mr. J. C. Douthitt, Treasurer, Mr. W.. P. Grim, Chorister, Mrs. C. M. Crapser, Organist. Elders: F. B. Sheldon, Clerk; R. W)C. Purviance, GebeVan Horne; J..W; Beard, J; R=Spicer, Dr. G AY Speliman, CC heshaner Fulon Jack, E. F. K'mmerley, A. H. Krauss, Dr. S. C. Waddell, An- drew Jamieson. Deacons. es) aiiies ot wow lem Gia iia pan emerciton The Board of Trustees: T. J. Baker, President, Harold Mattoon, Vice-Pres., D. S. Dalbey, Wallace Robertson, L. C. Barnes, Dr. B. L. Spellman, J. C. Douthitt. Board of Ushers: F. P. Cleppenger, chairman; Carl F. Shaffer, T. J. Baker, Dr. E. Wt Fellers, Forrest*Krauss, J.C. Douthitt@baul Fisher. Sabbath School: Superintendent, Mr, C. E. Jones; Assistant Sup- erintendent Dr. E. W. Fellers; Religious Director, E. F. Kimmerly; Secretary and Treasurer, H. E. Lawrence; Librar‘an, Paul Fisher; Supt. Adult Division, F. P. Clippenger; Supt, Secondary Division, Miss Susan West; Supt. Junior Dept., Miss Mary Fuller; Supt. Pri- mary Dept., Mrs. E. 'W. Fellers; Supt. Beginner’s Dept., Mrs. Wiil Skow; Supt. Cradle Roll, Mrs. Geo. Armand. First Presbyterian Church, Tekamah, Neb. (1869) The First Presbyterian. Church of Tekamah, Nebraska, was or- ganized by the Rey. J. M. Peebles, M.D. tin’ 1869. meAtenneleneuee Scotch people, by birth and early education Presbyterian, overtured the presbytery of Missouri River to organize them into a Presbyter- ian church. Rev. Jeremiah B. Long became the first pastor in April 1870, This was an epoch worthy of note in the little frontier hamlet, containing less than fifty inhabitants. Rev. Long was Irish by birth, left an orphan in early years, he was reared by a wealthy family in Indiana and educated for the Presbyterian ministry in the Chicago PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 153 Presbyterian Church, Tekamah, Nebr. Theological Seminary. This was his first charge. The Rev. George R. Carroll of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was at the time the synodical missionary for the territory, who arranged for the pulpit supply. The alternate supplies were Rev. Dr. J. Peebles of Decatur, Rev. George D. Stewart of Omaha, and Rev. McCandlish, Superintendent of the American Bible Society for Nebraska. The services were held in a little scho6l house, south of where the high school building now stands. The charter members were: C. K. Conger, and wife, Mrs. Mary Sutherland Mrs. Evelyn Ludwick, Mrs. Goodwin, Mrs. Caroline Hawks, Mrs. Hannah Wallace and Mrs. Abbie Cochran. C. K. Con- ger was elected the first Ruling Elder. Since the organization this church has had eight regularly instal- led pastors. There have been six stated supplies. In addition to the ministers already named the following were: Rev. John C. Sloan, from 1873 to 1878, Rev. William J. Young, from 1878 to 1880, Rev. John V. Griswold, from 1880 to 1883, Rev. John C. Cherryholmes, from 1884 to 1886, Rev. Lester D. Wells, from 1887 to 1888, 154 THER is LORY SO Reh rE Rev. Robert M. L. Braden, from 1889 to 1890, Rev. Everet Smits, from 1891 to 1893, Rev. Alex G. Wilson, from 1894 to 1902, Rev. J. D. Kerr, from 1902 to 1904, Rev. Robert W. Taylor, from 1904 to 1914, Rev. Benjamin A. Fye, from 1914 to 1919, Rev. Paul C. Johnson, from 1919 to 1922, Rev. Arch J. Kearns, from 1922 to The first church edifice was erected in 1870 and the second house of worship was dedicated in 1890. There have been received into the membership of the church since its founding, 727 members, of whom 443 have come on profes- s'on of their faith, and 284 by letter of dismissal from other churches. The Ruling Elders constituting the Session at the present time are: R. Le Adams, R..J.“Mitten, G. A. Jack S), Sa Breckenrmce se). Nesbit, H. E. Valder, GC, A. Valder, James A..Clark, Clerk (Ga? Dunn, F. W. Palen, J. L. Potter, P. C. Brandt, and D. W. Greenleaf, Treasurer. The Trustees are: J. F. Nesbit, Fres., F. F. Ward, Secretary, Dr. M. Wood, Dougtas Sutherland, Herman Wragge, J. E. Brecken- ridge, Roy Wetherell, James A. Clark and C. A. Valder. First PreSbyter’an Church, Grand Island, Neb. (1869) In April 1869 the Presbytery of Missouri River, in session at S‘oux City, Ia.. appointed Rev. Sheldon Jackson, as Supt. of Missions for Western Iowa, Nebraska, Montana, Dakota, Wyoming and Utah. Soon thereafter J. N. Hutchinson, a licentiate, began preaching in Grand Island once a month. August 12, 1869, Dr. Jackson visited the young commun’'ty and organized the First Presbyterian church, with five charter members. Robert Mitchell and Samuel Hindman were elected ruling elders. For several years the congregation wor- shiped in a school house, its growth being slow. In February 1875 Rev. Samuel Griffes conducted a series of revival meetings, at which time five members were added to the roll of the church. Robert Mitchell, R. G. Rice and S. D. Rannels were elected ruling elders. Rev. George Hutchinson came in August 1875 and remained as stat- ed supply for nine months. In 1877 Rev. J. H. Reynard served the church as pastor. During this pastorate the congregation purchased a building which was remodeled and formally dedicated. In 1881 the Manse was erected, at a cost of $8000.00. During the same year there were many accessions to the church. Rev. George Williams became pastor ‘n 1883. Rev. Samuel Wycoff served the church as stated supply during the year 1889-1890. The longest pastorate was PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA, 155 First Presbyterian ‘Church, Grand Island, Nebr. that of Rev. Thomas C. Clark, now of Washington, D.C., who came to this congregation in June 1890 and gave faithful service and in- spirational leadership for sixteen years until May 1906. While he was pastor the present beautiful church edifice was erected, which was dedicated in 1904, costing $20,000.00. The succeeding pastors have been: Rev. John G. Graham from 1906 for about five years. Rev. A. F. Ernst, Ph.D., for about four years. Rev. William I. Alexander for about two years, Rev. A. A. Smith for about five years. Rev. Glenn L. Rice is now in his second year. The church has had a continuous steady growth and now has upward of two hundred and seventy-hve members. The Sabbath school numbers one hundred and fifty. The Elders constitut'ng the present Session are J. B. Elseffer Wietk are |. Coats.) nH. Yund: John M- Cellan and 1. R. Burge > 156 THESHISTORYORSTIE Schuyler Presbyterian Church, Schuyler, Neb. (1869) The Presbyterian church is one of the oldest in Colfax County. It was organized December 15, 1869. Rev. Alexander Sutherland was the first minister. Robert Edgar and James A. Fraser were the first Deacons. Prominent among the other ealry members were Mr. and Mrs. John Curry, Mrs. Hector Curry and Mrs. John McPherson. In 1874 Rev. Mr. Sutherland left Schuyler and for about a year the church was without a pastor. In January 1875 Rev. J. A. Hoor be- came the pastor. At this time there were fifty members. The Elders of the church were John Curry, H. C. Russell and J. F. Woods. Miles Zentmeyer was the Sunday school superintendent. The church building was erected in 1871. In 1876 it was moved to another lo- cation and entirely refitted. The church edifice has recently been destroyed by fire. Rev. Benjamin F. Pearson was the pastor from 1911 to 1915. Students from the Presbyterian Theological Seminary of Omaha, Nebraska, have supplied the pulpit from time to time. Dr. C. H. Johnson is the Clerk of the Session. First Presbyterian Church, Madison, Neb. (1870) The church at Madison was organized by Dr. Sheldon Jackson, then Home M’'ssionary for Nebraska, and whose greater work in Alaska makes his name a familiar one in every Presbyterian home. The organization took place on Feb. 1, 1870, and there were three charter members. First Church, Madison, Nebr The first pastor was the Rev. J. M. Wilson, who also served the Church at Columbus. The first house of worship was dedicated on May 12, 1872. But this building was destroyed by a tornado on Sept. 28, 1881. The second building was in turn dedicated on Aug. 6, 1882, and an addition and new bell were dedicated on July 8, 1894. ’ PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 157 The church prospered and in the course of years, the need of a larger and more fully equipped church home was keenly felt. During the pastorate of Dr. J. E. Farmer, this was realized. The coner stone for the new building was laid on Nov. 8, 1913, and the beautiful church dedicated on June 14, 1914. The church has been served by the following pastors: Reverends J. M. Wilson, W. E. Kimball, W. J. Oliver, Frederick Tonge, C. W. Lowrie, Theodore Morning, C. H. Churchill, H. Mc- Clenaghan, J. E. Farmer, D.D., A. H. Eggleston, Alexander Wimber- ley and the present pastor, F. G. Knauer, D.D. Looking to the Lord for help, this church hopes to render in- creasing service for Christ and His Kingdom and to let her light shine with growing brightness, even to the ends of the earth. Elders: F. M. Yeazel, Geo. E. Richardson, Clerk, M. D. Taylor, E. E. Burris, Wm. ‘Witgow. Trustees: Chas Pierce, Chairman, I. M. Dawson, Treas., Fred Diers, C .S. Snyder, Albert Glenn, D. W. Kline. Ponca Presbyterian Church, Ponca, Neb. (1870) The Presbyterian church of Ponca was organized February §8, 1870. The first church edifice was built in 1871 at a cost of about $2000. The ministers instrumental in effecting the organization were Rev. Walter H. Clark and Rev. Abner D. Chapman. The charter mem- bers of the church were the families cf McDonald, Gamble, Hobbs, and McKinley. When Rev. Robert L. Wheeler, D.D., was sent to Ponca by Dr. John Hall, as a licentiate, in the fail of 1876, he was given the counties of Dakota, Wayne and Dixon as his parish. His parish practically extended from South Sioux City to Red Cloud’s tepee in the Black Hills, at Pine Ridge Indian Agency, where Dr. Wheeler held services with old Red Cloud present. A manse was purchased, which was built at a cost of about $3000. Recent additions and improvements have made of it a very comfortable and-modern residence.- The original church edifice was reduced to ashes in 1908, In 1909 the present edifice was dedicated at a cost of $7000, It is a very substantial and well appointed building, with modern improvements and well adapted to the place and work. It has a basement with a kitchen fully furnished, a large room for social purposes, and ail modern conveniences. | The first Elders were William McDonald, and Samuel Gamble. Two members have received commissions to the foreign fi‘eld, Mrs. H. W. Lampe and Rev. Lynn P. Sullenberger, 158 THE HISTORY ObSTHE Ponca Presbyterian Church. The pastors who have supplied the church in their order are, Rev, Walter H. Clark, Rev. Albert Chapman, Rev. Robert -L. Wheeler, D.D., Rev. Smith, Rev. C. F. Graves, Rev. A. F, Young. Rev. George A. Bray, Rev. Allen Camp, Rev. Henry Willard Lampe, D'D.; Rev: J. M. Darling, Rev. Joseph B. Cherry, Ph.D:, Rev; Aw G:; Martyn, D.D., Rev. Ernest C. Seabright and Rev. Irwin G. Smith. Clyde Myers, John Armstrong, H. L. Keyser and the Rev. Ir- win G. Smith constitute the present Session. First Presbyterian Church, Tecumseh, Neb. (1870) The First Presbyterian church of Tecumseh, Nebraska, was for- mally organized on Saturday, June 25, 1870, with the following nine- teen charter members: M. C. Bryson, Mrs. M. A. Bryson, B. F. Cur- ry, Mrs. P. Curry, Samuel Russell, Mrs. Jane Russell, Mrs. A. E. Baird, Mrs. May Mayberry, Miss Armstrong, Ambrose Nicholson, Mrs. A. Nicholson, Miss Emma Nicholson, Samuel J. Work, Mrs. Mary A. Work, Harrison Tingle, Mrs. Armantha Tingle, Y. D. Met- calfe, Mrs. Jessie M. L. Work, Mrs. Maggie Whitney. The first elders elected were M. C. Bryson and George A. Miller. Rev. A. T.:. Wood was the first minister and served as stated supply for nearly two years, from June 1870 to April 1872. Rev. A. S. Powell succeeded him and preached from April 1872 until February 1875. In September 1875 Rev. A. S. Struthers came to the church remaining for one ,year. Mr. Struthers was followed immediately September 1876, by Rev. A. F, Randolph, who remained four years PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA, 159 as the regularly installed pastor. In March 1881 Rev. C. D. Jeffiries began his work in the church and continued till September 1884. In October of the same year Rev. J. D. Krum, D.D., succeeded to the pastorate of the church and continued until Jaunary 1887. Dr. Krum was followed by Rev. W. W. Harsha, D.D., who served the church from May, 1888 to April 1895. In August 1896 Rev. J. A. Pollock became pastor and continued his labors until June 1899. The August following Rey. E. I. Davies accepted a call to the church and con- tinued as pastor until his death on August 8, 1903. Then Rev. H. E. Waters served the church as pastor from October 1903 until April 1908. On July 30, 1908, Rev. Robert Liddell, D.D., became pastor and continued until October 15, 1910. He was followed by Rev. Wil- son W. Tait, D.D., who remained with the church from June 1, 1911 until August 15, 1913. Rev. W. W. Alverson succeeded Dr. Tait on April 1, 1914, and closed his labors May 31, 1918, On June 4, 1920 Rev. W. H. Cooper became pastor and labored most faithfully until called to his reward on August 26, 1923. Rev. James G. Clark be- came pastor of the church on February 17, 1924. Services were first held in the Court House of Johnson County. In the fall of 1873 a church building was begun which was dedicated on February 22, 1874. The building was 32 by 48 feet. The present edifice was erected in 1892 at a cost of $10,500. The congregation has a spac'ous modern manse valued at $6000. The present roll of members numbers one hundred and thirty- two. The following named Elders constitute the Session: W. P. Mc- Coy, Ridgeway McCoy, and Edward Olson. The Trustees are as follows: L. M. Davis, P. A. Brundage, Warren Ingersoll and T. J. Pierson. The Marietta Presbyterian Church, Marietta, Neb. (1871) On September 3, 1871, in the Adams County school house, Rev. N. P. Ormsby of Minonk, Ill, organized the First Presbyterian church of Marietta, Saunders County, Nebraska, with a roll of 13 charter members as follows: Mr. Walter and Mrs. Helen Crinklaw, Mr. A. P. and Mrs. Helen Kempton, Mr. D. and Mrs. Elizabeth Mc- Cord, Mr. Henry and Mrs. Sarah Sorberger, Mrs. Annie Ellison, Mrs. Marie Schofield, Mrs. Aline Mowers, Mrs. Irene Storms, and James Crinklaw, Three of this number are still living, Mr. Kempton, Mrs. Irene Storms, and James Crinklaw. 160 THE HISTORY OF THE Marietta Presbyterian Church, Colon, Neb. Plans had been made many times by this little group to consum- mate this organization; circumstances had prevented each time, and only owing to the fact of Rev. Ormsby being a guest at the McCord home, could they at this time have realized their desires. For a period of five years from the date of the organization no record can be found of the church history. The older members recall a Rev. Welty, who came upon the field during this time, and following him, Rey. W. Fletcher, who resided upon his farm preaching upon the Sabbath until the session, Mr. W. Crinklaw and Mr. McCord, who had been elected elders on the date of organization, obtained Rev. J. L. Amlong, who served until 1879. During the first and second years of his pastorate Mr. and Mrs. Blaine McCord, Mr. and Mrs. David Frazer, Mr. and Mrs. P. P. Hayes, Luella Hayes, Anna and Jennie Crinklaw, united with the church. No comment can adequate- ly express what the addition of this company must have meant to both pastor and members of the church—we find their record writ- ten in every branch of the church work, In January of the year 1880, Rev. E. L. Dodder was called as pastor and served one year. During this year plans were perfected and the erection of the church building began. J. A. Sams, Mr, and Mrs. Isaac Clegg, Laura Clegg, and Jas. Elliott united with the PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 161 church. Rev. Dodder closed his pastorate in 1881 and was succeed- ed by Rev. Edward Warren. Dated March 1882, the session minutes read, “A joint meeting was held in Wahoo of the Wahoo and Marietta churches for the pur- pose of providing for the support of the gospel.” W. D. McCord, Wm, Fletcher and Walter Crinklaw, represented Marietta, and elders Reed, Moore, Pryne and Bell, Wahoo. Arrange- ments were made by which Rev. Warren became pastor of both chuches, preaching in Marietta on Sabbath mornings during the win- ter months and afternoons during the summer months. The Marietta church building was completed and destined to stand but one year. On the Sabbath morning of June 25, 1882, a violent storm demolished it. We recall W. D. McCord’s account of this event as follows: After the storm had cleared the members of the congregation arrived as usual for Sabbath services to find their house of worship a sorry wreck. Its erection had meant real sacrifice and wearying labor; much of the material having been brought across the country from Fremont. In the dismay of the moment some asserted this closed the church’s career—it could never be rebuilt. The women and children wept. Amidst this general disheartening situation, Rev. Warren emerged from the wreck holding aloft the pulpit Bible unharmed, exclaiming, “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth, but the Word of the Lord endureth forever.’ By the close of the year the re-erection was completed. Rev. Warren now re- siding in Philadelphia is remembered as a young man of splendid appearance, endowed with a genial, kindly personality. He came to the field a single man, but was married during the second year of his pastorate. The following united with the church at this time: Emma and Hattie Crinklaw, Bertha Schofield, Lizzie Hayes, Mr. and Mrs. James Ellison, Sr., W. Ellison, Sr., Sarah Bell, and Lettie EI- lison, Mr. and Mrs. Crane, Jennie Ellison, John and Alex Andrens, Geo. Orme, Dan Cameron, Milton Hayes, Mr. and Mrs. Hague, and Mr. and Mrs. Schwartz. Rev. David Jones succeeded Rev. Warren. He was the first pas- tor to occupy the manse which was erected in 1884. At this time Mr. C. Hague was elected elder. In 1885, Rev. Jas. Youngs accepted the pastorate and remained three years. During this period we find the church roll increased almost twofold; among the names added were: Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Mack, Mr. and Mrs. John Hancock, Mr. and Mrs. W. Mitchell, Mr. and Mrs. H. Bellows, and Myrtella Bellows, Mary McCord, Etta McCord, Juno Schofield, Myrtle and Pearl Kempton, Anna, Minnie and Emma Ellison, Morris Hancock, Grace and Nellie Hydese J. =L. 11 162 THE HISTORY ORTH E Carson. W. K. Fletcher, Philinda Sanderson, Catherine Winslow, Minnie Hancock, Lillian Schofield, John Roush, Wm. Nye, Wilbur Watson, and Grace Mack. Rev. Young closed his pastorate in June 1887 and wa; folowed by Rev. Mathews, who remained but on year. Rev. Youngs and Mathews were the most elderly of all the pastors who served on the field. Rev. L. D. Wells followed Rev. Mathews, remaining two years from February, 1889 to near the close of 1890. Among those uniting with the church we read the names of Mrs. Lucinda Hood, Jennie Hood and Rose Olson. Rev. Wells is particularly remembered for his musical inclina- tions, taking great delight in drilling his large choir of young folks in preparation not only for the usual musical service, but observing each of the special services at Christmas, Easter and Children’s Day, in rendering appropriate cantatas. Early in 1891 Rev. Lodge accepted the call of the session, re- maining one year. A sad feature of his residence here was the death of Mrs. Lodge, who came upon the field an invalid and lived but a few months. Her death is the only one which has occurred in the manse. Those uniting with the church during Rev. Lodge’s pastor- ate were: John Butterick, John Meckley, Frank Olson, Herbert and Fred Mowers Florence and Polly Perry, Myrtle Ellison, Mr. and Mrs. Gordon, Charlotte and Clayton Taylor, Mary, Lawrence, Eliza- beth Orme, Mattie Henderson, and Mr. and Mrs. McCauley. On April 17, 1893, the session with Dr. Sexton as moderator re- ceived Rey. and Mrs. Aston and Francis, Myrtle Smith and Jane R. Fletcher into membership. Rev. Aston’s ministry dated from 1893 to 1896 and covered the church’s most active and _ flourishing years. The families of the pioneer members had now grown to manhood and womanhood and faithfully attended the services of each depart- ment of church activities. The fame of the Young People’s Christian Association spread far and wide and each Sabbath as the day drew near its close marked the procession of numerous “top buggies” car- rying the beaux and belles of the entire surrounding country together with their elders in spring wagons and carryalls, hastening to Mari- etta Presbyterian church where that peerless old choir leader, Abe Palmartier, fairly rent the dome of heaven with the rapturous melod- ies of the old Gospel hymns. It was no mere formal pretense that characterized these services but a genuine outpouring of sincere devotions. The list of those uniting with the church reads: Mr. and PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 163 Mrs. Griffen, who were completing their preparation for mission- ary work and Frank L. Miller, received by letter. On confession of faith: Wm. Brown, Wm. and Henry Gerke, John Reed, Geo. EI- lison, Robert Cemer, Herman Beherns, Mary Scales, Efhe Whinnery,. Willie Ellison, Dora Sanderson, Jos. Hood, Nellie Ellison, Mrs. Annie Perry, Mrs. M. Presba, Rebecca and James Presba, Lizzie Burt, Mrs. Vance, Lorena Vance, Blanche Hood, Mamie and Della: Henderson, Mr. and Mrs. Cronk, Sam Warner, Geo. Henderson, John Brown, Mr. and Mrs. Davis, Jerome Lawrence, Nellie Haldene, and Delma Gaffin. Rev. H. E. Nicklon succeeded Rev. Aston, occupying the pulpit from 1897-1899. Those uniting with the church at this time were: Mrs. Geo. and John Crinklaw, H. Robertson, Clara, Cora and Delia Bader, Lizzie Raitt, Fred Presba and Mable Gaffin. Rev. Nicklon is remembered for h’s stringency in church discipline. He revised the church roll and introduced a number of changes in business con- duct. This was his first pastorate. Following Rev. Nicklon came Rev. Geo. Scarr, who occupied the field longer than any preceding minister, The memory of Rev. Scarr is dear to every member of the congregation. He was a man of quiet unassuming nature, kind- ly, sympathetic and just. During his ministry the Colon Union church was reorganized as becoming the First Presbyterian church of Colon. Twenty-eight members withdrawing from Mar‘etta and placing their membership in the near church. This following elder Frank Olson’s removal from the neighborhood, left Marietta with but one elder, Mr. John Hancock. At the next congregational meet- ing, J. A. Crinklaw, H. C. Mowers, Morris Hancock and H. Robert- son were chosen as elders and ordained the following Sabbath. By mutual consent one pastor residing in Marietta was to serve both churches. In the minutes of the session as recorded by Rev. Scarr mention is made of the history of the silver communion set which was presented to the church by Rev. Warren, Grandma Clegg at this time adding a personal gift of a baptismal bowl. This commun- ion set was used over forty years. Our present individual servcice was a gift from H. F. Robertson. During Rev. Scarr’s ministry the following persons united with the church: Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Anderson, Wm., Anna, Ida and Olive Anderson, Mable Orme, Her- bert and Ralph Henderson, and Ruth Orme—all of whom transfer- red to Colon: Hilda, Esther and Edith Olson, Hazel Carson, Roy Scarr, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Olson, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Seeburg, Sr., Effie Wallin and Beth Hancock. 164 THE HISTORY OF THE Rev. John Bennett succeeded Rev. Scarr, remaining two years, Rev. Bennett was the only pastor who had served as a foreign mis- sionary, having spent several years on the island of Madagascar, when first ordained, being sent out from England. Dr. B. J. Bret- houwer became pastor in 1906, ‘serving until 1909. He bears the distinction of being the only pastor ever installed and also of bearing the degree of Doctor. At this time Mr. and Mrs. C. Olson and Ar- thur, Alice, Orval and Lawrence Ilson, Nora Alm, Jessie Carson, Ruth Brethouwer, Harry Carson, Julius Alm, Herbert McCord, and Helen Hancock united with the church. Rey. N. P. Olney succeeded Dr. Brethouwer, serving from 1909 to 1914. During his pastorate quite extensive repairs were made upon the church, the basement and west addition being the chief features. The piano was also purchased and additions were made to the library. Those uniting with the church at this time were: John Hancock, Lloyd Brown, Winifred Ellison, Bernice Crinklaw, Frances Carson, Raymond Crinklaw, John Olson, Donald Ellison, Harold McCord, Enoch and Anna Benson, Victor Fransen, Edna Monteen, Mrs. Elva Sams, Gladys Brown, Evlyn Crinklaw, Waldo McCord, Wm. McCord and Howerd Olson. Rev. Olney’s pastorate was marked by the un- usual activity of the C. E. Society and the introduction of community social work with the church as a center. In 1916 Rev. Aston made a request to serve the church again and was unanimously accepted. The Marietta and Colon congrega- tions now felt strong enough to each support its own pastorate and Rev. Aston took charge of Marietta alone. Both Rev. and Mrs. Aston were at this time recovering from the sorrow of their loss of Francis and spent two quiet years in their desire to be near her last resting place. On the session records, Mr. and Mrs, Fred Miners, Conrad Carlson, Ethel Milton, Mildred McCord, Richard Olson, Duane Ellison, Opal Ellison, Mr. and Mrs. F. Fransen, Mr. and Mrs. A. Anderson, Lillie Anderson, Emil Johnson, Alex Alm, Mr. and Mrs. Ford Torrens, Fern Wells, Mr. and Mrs. A. Hanson, Gladys and Ada Clouse, united with the church. Mr, C. E. Olson was elected to-the office of elders at this time. This brings us to our present pastor, Rev. Horton, who came up- on the field in 1919. Two new lines of work have already marked his endeavors, viz., the Aid Society, which claims a splendid membership among our own and other denominations, and the Men’s Community Club, which aims to enroll all ages and denominations for mutual ben- efit, social, spiritual, educational. Rev. Horton, like Rey. Warren and Rev. Ilney, brought his bride to the Marietta pastorate. The-Board PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 165 of Elders was recently enlarged by the election of John Brown, Geo. Crinklaw and Ford Torren. The history of Marietta church would not be complete without including the Sunday school and Missionary organizations. It was during the pastorate that the Missionary Soc‘ety was organized on the date of March 22, 1882, at the home of Mrs. Crane, with Mrs. Louise McCord as pres'dent, Mrs. Schwartz, vice-president, Bertha Schofield, treasurer, and Nellie Kempton, secretary. This society has existed thirty-eight years without a lapse, and has proven one of the strongest departments of the church. From its members have gone out three missionaries of the cross, two to foreign and one to home fields. Mrs. Bertha Giffen, who with her husband served un- der the China Inland Mission in China, and Mrs. Juno Meckly, sis- ter of Mrs. Giffen, Miss Rose Ilson, now living in California, spent many years among the Navajo and Hopi Indians in Arizona. Long before the erection of a church building we find the record of the Marietta Presbyterian Sunday school with meetings held in the vaious school houses of the community. The first officers were W. D. McCord, Supt., J. M. Wh'nnery, Treas., and Nora Sams, Sec’y. Teachers: Mr. and Mrs. McCord, and Joseph and Nora Sams. Many of us are still familiar with the splendid service rcndered by these faithful Christian pioneers. Mrs. Schofield who with a lumber wagon drawn by mules gathered up all the children between her home and the place of meeting, regardless of weather or roads, Mrs. Louise McCord, whe taught tiie young people's class for a quarter of a century, Mrs. Mowers, Mr. Kempton, all of whom the records credit with faithfui service. How vividiy do we recall the eariiest admonitions ct Mr. McCord as each Sabbath he exhorted us to faithful service, telling us how the “very hairs of our head are numbered,” such was the love and care of God for us. From our Sunday school one member has gone out as a foreign missionary, Miss Mae Sutherland, who served several years in India. The honor roll of the S. S. in the great World War is: Haroid McCord, Victor Fransen, Julius Alm, Lloyd Anderson, John Han- cock, Rufus Monteen, Algot Anderson, Arthur Olson and Gus Bahm., , To crowd into a few minutes the review of the record of 50 years activities has necessitated the briefest mention of but a few of the leading characters of our church history. No less worthy of mention are many other faithful ones who rendered serv'ces for which we 166 CHE CHISLOR YeO Weer ri feel assured they have heard the Master’s “Well done!” and have meited eternal joy in his presence. (The above address was written and delivered at the recent an- niversary celebration of the Marietta Presbyterian church by Mrs. J. H. Ellison, and where Henry F. Kiesen participated in the anni- versary exercises.) First Presbyteriar: Church of Humboldt, Neb. (1871) The First Presbyterian church of Huinboidt was organized on June 23, 1871, with cight constituent members. This was the dicct result of a call issued by A. H. Bratt and wife, C. E. Rice and wife, Catharine P. A. Nimms, John R. Clark and wife and Mrs. Phoebe Mc- Conkey. The first sermon of the Presbyterian denomination was preached on the evening of the Sunday preceding tlie formal organ- ization by Rev. George R. Carroll, the District Missionary of the American Board of Home Missions and assigned to western Iowa, Nebraska and Dakota. The first pastor of the church was Rev. Andrew Herron, who was installed in May, 1872, and held office for one year. In October 1874 Rev. A. F. Hale was called to the pas- torate which he held until the third of June the following year. when Rey. C. S. Marvin accepted the pastorate. At the end of one year Rev. Marvin gave place to Rev. J. B. Linskea who accepted the call Sep- tember 3, 1876. Rev. L’nskea resigned at the completion of a year’s service and January first, 1878, the Rev. F. M. Hickok was installed. Rev. Hickok. whose duties closed October 20, 1882, on account of physical disability, was succeeded by Rev. Joel S. Kelsey, from Oc- tober 20 1882 to May 1, 1884. Rev. LL. D. Wells filled the office of stated supply from May 1, 1884 to April 6, 1887 and was followed by Rev. G. G. Barnes, as stated supply, October 1, 1887. Rev. Barnes was installed November 14, 1888, which relationship was dissolved October 16, 1890. Rev. Lewis Jessup was stated supply from Dec- ember 1, 1890 to March 23, 1893. Rev. R. Cooper Baily began his services August 15, 1893 and continued to September 30, 1895. He was succeeded by Rev. S. H. McClanaghan on February 24, 1896 and continued to May 24, 1896. November 30, 1896 Rev. C. C. Meek took up the work and continued to October 20, 1898. The church since then was supplied as follows: Rev. W. B. Pryce from january 1, 1899 to November 1, 1590. Rev. John A. Currie from Apr'l 7, 1901 to November 9, 1902. Rev. L. Richmond Smith from June 14, 1903, who was installed October 20, 1905 and reiationship dissolved Octoher 27, 1907, Rev. Charles McKee Cantrall, took up the work on March 20, PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 167 Humboldt Presbyterian Church, Humboldt, Nebr. 1908, and was installed May 6, 1908, and held pastorate to September 28, 1909. Rev. Kersey J. Cardy (whose sad and sudden death occurred at Hebron, Nebraska on February 18, 192+) entered tnon his duties in this church as stated supply, January , 1910, and concluded November 1, 1912. He was followed by Rev. Allan D. Seelig who was ‘nstalled Feb- ruary 20, 1913, which relationship was dissolved September 15, 1917. Rev. John W. Dickson was pastor of the church from January 1, 1918 to March 31, 1919. Rev. Behrend J. Brethouwer, D.D., filled the pastoral office from January 1, 1920, to January 31, 1923. The present pastor, Rev. W. H. E. Strate, supplied the pulpit in June 1923, began his pastorate July 1, 1923 and was installed Novem- ber 1, 1923. And the work continues to prosper under his leadership. The church has had, including the organizer, 22 under shepherds in the 53 years of its existence. For a number of years in the beginning of the organization of the church the services were held in a school house. In 1877 the ad- visability of erecting a church building of their own was planned, and on January 5, 1878 a building committee was appointed to pros- ecute the build'ng project. In December of the same year the new 168 THE -HISTORY*OF John) Denzler W. J. Scoutt, G O: Fairchild. Blijah Welsh, A. B: Ballah iG) O3De= Buler. The Presbyterian Church, Wahoo, Neb. (1874) At a meeting of the Synod of Iowa, South, at its session at Keo- kuk, Iowa, held Oct. 17 to 21, 1872, it was ordered that a Presbytery, to be called the Presbytery of Nebraska City, should be erected con- sisting of ministers and churches in Nebraska lying south of the Platte River, an on Oct. 18, 1884, this church was transferred from the Nebraska City Presbytery to the Omaha Presbytery, to which it now belongs. The First Presbyterian church of Wahoo was organized on Jan. 27, 1874, by N. C. Robinson, State Missionary for Nebraska, in com- PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. Loo oe ae 3 St ATE ee = Presbyterian Church, Wahoo, Neb. pany with William Fletcher, who was our first acting min’ster, and the charter members are as follows: Mrs. M. A. Cemer, J. W. Pruyn andi wife, Joseph Ford and wife, Mrs. Thomas, Prof. H N Rogers and wife, Miss Mair, Lizzie Dech, William Dech and wife, Mrs. Sarah J. Bissell, Jacob We'kard and wife. J. W. Pruyn was elected elder. Of this list only one now survives, being Mrs. M A. Cemer who now resides at Albuquerque, New Mexico, Mabel Pruyn Wetheral was a daughter of J. W. Pruyn and wife, and was for many years Clerk, and was always a trusted and efficient worker in the church up to the time of her removal to Wyo. The Marietta church was the first to be organized in the County, and the ‘Wahoo church was second, and these two churches were served by the same ministers up to 1883. Our record of the minis- ters who served this church from the beginning to this date has not been very well kept, but with the assistance of the Rev. Nickerson we are able to make this list ee ie de gta s Sotards ted el Supplied TS OMEOMLS Omit ClU Siemens eee nee ne eee James L. Amlong “ceo eta ee ar ee Edward L. Dodder CEs lee ne eco See AGS cast atte ona ee a ee enna adm eno ance nde gies James L. Amlong 200 TH EHS. O RYO Tab Fie TSS3-10 tS 8a) WON ae ee cee ar ee Edward L. Dodder 1886 2G EESS an. cee eee eee Henry M. Goodell TS SOMO 1:89. ai 1c Seeuenen es eee ee ee ee Samuel R. Bellville LS O Gi ce Nie Sate 5 Se eh Ok Rh ee ee Ed Oe, John K. Sawyer LBORSUSOSS sac acyl Oe eee Aen pile ee os res ee es eee Supplied if SOO: Y wise a8 eS Paes tee ee ee ew ieee rest Ree a James M. Campbell 1900 Sr Bate eee are oer ae: See Ae ee Supplied pS ]tp eee aay bape et Ria et FSU A DI eh UES EP OY ERD Richard Te’ Bell 1G 0 Dine ae hg OR a rtd Pewee ee PL Fe eed eT ee es Supplied 19 OS= 10 OA des setae ee we eae eee 2 ee ee eee Sherrod W. Griffen 19051906 es StS eee Gis. 3c See Joseph B. Cherry LQ ee aa i ae Verne Oe ee Ae Suppled 1G OS yee ot Bee ee See eee John W. Morgan ANoKO aaron AKC Mk apayem <3 basal ed OT ee Emory E. Z’mmerman DQ Bee OO Oe eas Pt Sint nee a ee NO Ph a ee ee Supplied TOUS at On LOL GP aic ee eee eee ee ee eee J. Wallace Larkin LOT FS VO re OOM ty Cae: eee ener ere Seer Edwin B. Whitney 192051 O CLO 2D 1e Re aera eee i rhe ee eee. ee ee E. J. Nickerson As amatter of Presbyterian history in Saunders County, Neb. a report was made on April 11, 1873. to the Presbytery meeting at that time in Beatr'ce, that Saunders County had been visited by him early in the winter, and that he, N. C. Robinson, spoke of a small organiza- tion located about 12 miles south of Fremont, situated in the vicinity of Eldred P. O. and he also said that there were a few members of the Presbyterian church at Wahoo, six or e ght miles south of Eldred and other families scattered about the County, and that he felt that it was important that we should have a man located in the county. Accordingly some two months later, the Rev. William Fletcher went there and since that time has been laboring with good success. It is reported that on the fourth Sabbath of January, 1874 the church at Wahoo was organized, there being 16 names on the petition, but the day being stormy only seven werc present, but the church was organized and later the other nine petitioners were received, making the number 16 in all. On Sept. 8 1881 Saunders County was divided and two ministers were p’aced in the field. In the year 1913 the Ladies Aid of the church built and paid for the new or present manse at a cost of about $2,000, this having been done in the time of the Rev. J. Wallace Larkin and later about year 1915, during the pastorate of the said Rev. Larkin, we purchased the church building of the Covenanters on the Court House hill and moved it to the present location and remodeled and rebuilt the same as one sees it at present. It will be noticed that from the time we began building our new manse until the present time we have always had a regular pastor, PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 201 and also that we have steadily increased our membership during all of that time. It might be of interest to know something about the membership during the past ten years. We find the number of members in the years included in.the last ten years: BRM a Soe ae ae tee ee ON ee me Se eo somal oR §8 members FL 11.9 aime ere ee Cee Nese Nn aa SAS aS > NY ele SE er Wa R 110 members 1 (emma enn ine ERR SS ACE. 1 ad Pee Sed he ee 128 members Hs ames ee we ees RY oA Te Pea ee Se ad ne 190 members TORR se 5 SS sett tet a Re ED ee a OEY 212 members BIO) 3 teenie are ere erase oo ae hr eto pe re eee 301 members The increase in membership, as you will note by our figures shown above, has been about 200 members since Mr. Nickerson has been the pastor. Elders: D. H. Mills, Emeritus; Joe Bredenberg, Clerk; J. R. Thompson, Harry Woodworth, W. J. Hapke, Thorwall Borreson, J. M. Lampert. Trustees: Mrs. E. O. Weber, Pres., J. C. Hamilton, Secretary; Ed. Lehmkuhl, Chas. Larsen. Presbyterian Church at Papillion, Neb. (1874) The First Presbyterian church of Pap llion, Nebraska, was or- ganized on March 1, 1874, with a membership of twelve. The first pastor of the new organization was Rev. J. R. Brown, who held the pastoral office from the fall of 1874 to the spring of the next year. In the fall of 1875, Rev. J. Riale was called to the work, and in Sep- tember was installed as pastor. The first services of the society were held in a hall over the store of Mr. J. J. Brown, but upon the accession of Mr. Riale, the use of the German Method’st church was obtained. Later, a neat hall was fitted up over the store of W. Sander, and just previous to the completion of the new church edifice they met in the county court-room, This building was erected in the summer of 1878, and dedicated on the twenticth day of October, in the same year. Its size is th'rty-two by forty-eight feet, exclusive of vestibule and approach, and its cost exceeded $2000, which was promptly paid. A Sabbath school had been organized in the summer of 1875, un- der the supervision of J. D. Patterson, but the winter months caused a scattering of the Sabbath school scholars. A new organization was effected in the spring of 1876 under the super ntendence of Mr. James Kennedy. The list of those who have had charge of the school, is, in the order of appointment, as follows: James Kennedy, 202 THE HIS LORY. O Be CEE W. C. McLean, Harris Sprague and George Potwin. Mr, Sprague served as an Elder of this church for over fifty consecutive years. When the church had no regular pastor it was served by the students of Theological Seminary of Omaha. Charley Trumble is the Clerk of Session at the present time. The church has an enrollment of seventy-five members. Hopeweli Presbyterian Church, Near Unadilla, Neb. (1874) In 1869 Rev. Alanson T. Wood came tou Nebraska commissioned by the Home Mission Board. He began preaching at Helena where a church was built which was the fcre-runner of the present Hope- well Presbyterian church, located about seven miles south of Una- dilla. This church was organized hy Rev. N. C. Robinson, District Missionary, on June 13, 1874. A church was erected at a cost of about $2000.00 and a manse for almost an equal sum. On Sunday evening, March 23, 1913, both church and manse were compietely destroyed by a cyclone. Rev. C. J. Hannant, who occupied the manse at the time, sustained some painful bruises and narrowly escaped death. The little flock at once pledged sufficient funds to build another church edifice and manse. Mis. Mar'an Cameron, a charter member, and her four sons were the prime movers in bringing the new buildings to their completion, which was done at a cost of $4500. Organ and furniture at an additional cost of $600.00. The new church was dedicated in June 1914 by Rev. Thomas K. Hunter, D.D., and Rev. Julius F. Schwarz, D.D. Hardly had the dedication services come to a close when another devastating wind-storm approached. While people of the community hastened to find refuge in caves and cellars, trees and smaller buildings were blown down, Mother Cam- eron was the last surviving charter member present at the ded'caiton. She has since been translated to the Church Triumphant. She was born May 6, 1833 and died February 18, 1920. Her two sons, Duncan and John and C. A. Parker constitute the present Session. The following ministers have served the church at Hopewell: Rev. Francis M. Hickok, Rev. Albert R. Erwin, Rev. Orville Compton, Rev. Jacob J. Hawk, Rev. Mark L. Milford, Rev. S. D. Davis, Rev. J. McC. McDonald, Rev. W. H. Niles, Rev. George Ernst, Rev. Ira Miller, Rev. A. B. Byrom, Rev. C. J. Hannant, Rev. B. J. Brethouwer, D.D., Rev. A. L. Price, Rev. Martin C. Stonecipher, Ph.D. Rev. James B. Kelso is the present pastor, PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 203 History of the First Presbyterian Church of Beaver City, Nebr, (1874) The First*Presbyterian Church of Beaver City, Nebraska, was organized on Thursday, August 20, 1874, by Rev. N. C. Robinson, Synodical Missionary for Nebraska, assisted by Rev. E. N. Lord, Rev. G. C. Clark and Rev. J. A. Griffes of Hastings, Nebraska. The work was begun by Rev. E. N. Lord who first preached there on May 10, 1874. There were ten charter members as follows: James A. Gibson, Mrs. Mary Gibson, Thomas J. DeKalb, Mrs. Margaret DeKalb, Wil- liam H. Sturdevant, W. E. Crutcher, Mrs. Maggie Ayers, Thomas M. Williams, Mrs. Anna Williams and Mrs, Elizabeth Moore. William E. Crutcher was elected as the first elder and James A. Gibson was the first deacon. The church has been served by twenty-one ministers as follows: Rev. E. N. Lord from August 20, 1874, until September 1875; Rev. H. K. Bushnell from May 1876 until May 1879, and a second time from April 1881 until April 1882. Rev. J. M. Wilson from January 1880 until January 1881. Student C. P. Luce during the summer of 1882. Rev. C. H. Foland from September 1882 until September 1584. Rev. J. P. Baker from May 1885 until May 1886. Rey. John Branch from June 1886 until June 1888. Rev. Lester S. Boyce from May 1889 until January 1895. Rev. W. J. Oliver from February until November of 1893. Rev. C. H. Brouillett from November 1893 until May 1394. Student Harry Allen during the summer of 1894. Rev. P. A. Tinkham from October 1895 until October 1896. Rev. James McNab from May until November of 1897. Rey. Albert Jamison from March until December 1898. Rev. J. Nelson during January and February of 1899. Rev. W. H. Miller from April 1899 until December 1901. Student D. E. Thomas during the summer of 1902. Rev. J. G. Russel from December 14, 1902 until December i, 1908. Rev. J. W. Pressly from January 1, 1909 until September 1, 1914. Rev. M. D. Berg from March 9, 1915 until November 20, 1917. Rev. James G. Clark from February 3, 1918 until February 10, 1924, The first house of worsh’p was erected during the summer of 1879. It was the first church building constructed in Beaver City. It continued in use until destroyed by fire on October 1, 1909. During the summer of 1910, under the leadership of Rev. J. W. Pressly, a new, beautiful and commodious edifice was erected, being 204 THE HISTORY OF THE constructed of brick and tile. The church also has a comfortable manse. Dur'ng the first fifty years the church has received six hundred and sixty three members and now has a membership of two hundred and thirty seven, Hickman Presbyterian Church, Hickman, Neh, (1870) The cradle of the Hickman Presbyterian church still stands in Rockville, W'sconsin, where most of the charter members were bap- tized and received their early Christian training. It was the second field and charge to which Rev. John Berk had been called aiter having received his discharge from army service in the Civil War, in 1865. The people of that community began to realize that with their in- vestment of means and energy they could possess larger and miore extended land holdings in Nebraska, than they cou'd possibly acquire in the timbers of their native abode. -\ small colony votuitcered as the forerunners, to set out on an exploring expedition; across the day and the night in the glimmering length of the railroad train, they crossed the state of Iowa into Nebraska, to the nearest point of their anticipated abode. The term’nus of! their adventure was the sectional ranges of Lancaster County, where, in the twonsliips of Saltilla and Pass, a co!ony from the Nehterlands had already proven up on their claims, and organized a church, known as the Dutch Re- formed. The Classis of Wisconsin sent Rev. J. W. Dunnewold toe organize ths church which was done June 28, 1870. The first mem- bers of the Consistory were Christian Gysbers and E. B. Reimes. The Deacons were J. \W. Lefferdink and J. Lubbers. .On May 30, 1871, the Rev. J. W. Tewinkel was called to become the first pas- tor of the new organization. Rockville Wisconsin, Presbyterian Church. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 205 The little company from Wisconsin decided to cast their lots as neighbors to those who belonged to the “Household of Faith.” Here they located on God’s virgin plains with nothing more than the green mats of prairie grass and an occasional stone that might be used for future building projects; the hideous yelps of the roving prairie wolves to break the quiet of the night; and an occasional visit of the keen eyed Indians who sought a closer acquaintance with a new bread sharing neighbor. Dugouts furnished the earliest primitive accommodations, with kitchen, dining room, bed chamber and parlor all in one. This company of pioneers formed a nucleus for the church that was practically the first church in the Synod to furnish the preaching of the Gospel in both the German and the English tongues. Their first meeting house was a small school building located where the present building stands, known as the “Lone Star School,” in Dis- trict Ninety-seven. A petition was presented to the Presbytery of Nebraska City requesting that a Presbyterian church be organized. This petition found favor with the Presbytery. According to notice given, the persons who had previously petitioned the Presbytery, met on the twenty-seventh day of August, 1878. The committee ap- pointed to complete such work was Rev. George L. Little, Synodical Missionary, and Rev. Jacob Schaedel. The way being open, after a sermon, the committee proceeded to organize the church., The fol- lowing named persons entered into the Christian fellowship: Charter members: (Deceased:) Jacob Kuster, Dorothea Kuster, August Kuster, Konrad Brunke, Heinrich Schwetger, Kathrine Schwetge, Henry Meyer, Caroline Meyer, Henry Roepke, Dorathea Roepke, Caroline Lefferdink, Mrs. Fleck, Conrad Brunke, Jr.,. August Dickman, Louise Dickman, Karl Heupel, Conrad Breihan, Adam Heupel, Eva Heupel, Fritz Wissel, Hannah Wissel. (II Timothy 4: 8.) Surviving: Anna May, Mary Birt, Sarah Kuster, Benjamin F. Garner, Mrs. Emma Garner, Regina Brunke, Henry Brunke, Fritz Wissel, Jr., Joeph Brunke, John Brunke, Henry Meyer, Dorothea Meyer, Lou's and Johanna Dickman. Then the following persons were duly elected Ruling Elders of the new organization: Jacob Kuster fori three years, Konrad Brunke for two years, Henry Schwetger for one year. Fritz Wissel and Henry Meyer having been elected Deacons, were at the same time ordained and installed. The following named persons were elected Trustees: Fred Wis- sel for three years, Henry Meier for two years, August Kuster for one year. 206 LIE aS DO YR O beh bre The Rev. John Berk who was still pastor at the Rockville church, was chosen as their first pastor, and accepted the call to his third field of labor. As the months passed the colony grew; relatives and friends from Illinois state, also from Gasconade, Osage and Franklin counties of Missouri, were attracted to the new country. In the first Session meeting held January first, 1879, the following persons were received into the full communion of the church; Lud- wig Remmert and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Nieman, Emily Berk, Mr. and Mrs. Ludwig Leirer, Mr. and Mrs. Herman Feiss, William Dickman, Mr. and Mrs. Sievers and Charley Lynn. In the next Session meeting, September 24, 1879, Mr. and Mrs. George Kling and Mr. and Mrs. Herman Liesveld were enrolled. Soon after Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Offer and family of four daughters and eight sons became members. After having had several congregational meetings for the pur- pose of erecting a church edifice, as well as a home for the pastor, it was decided that lots for such buildings be purchased and that the village of Hickman be the choice for the site for locating the new church home. A frame edifice with dimensions of 24 by 36 feet was erected in 1879 at a cost of $1856.35. In 1889 it was voted to build an addition with d'mensions of 20 by 24 feet, and a tower 10 by 10 feet, serving as a vestibule for the “LL” shaped edifice. The amount gathered to defray the cost of said additions was $1062.50. The congregation and its pastor were now comfortably housed; yet, there was one matter of deep concern to the congregation, and that was the question, “Where shall we bury our dead?” A special meeting was called for September 21, 1880. It was voted that the Trustees be authorized to purchase three acres, bordering on the pre- sent church property to the east, which ‘is today the beautiful ceme tery belonging to the Hickman Presbyterian church. The growth of the membership roil taxed the seating capacity and again the congregation found it necessary to meet the require- ments of the increased attendance. To this end a congregational meeting was held March 21, 1916, when it was voted, that an addition with a basement be built. This was done the same year ata cost of $2987.14 which presents to us the church as it stands at the present time. In the same meeting the congregation decided to dispose of the manse, which was soon sold and removed, giving place to a new and modernly equipped manse at the cost of $3171.88. When all was com- pleted the building committee reported that all obligations in erect- ing the two buildings including new furniture, had been met, leaving the church free from any debt or mortgage. Presbyterian Church, Hickman, Neb. 1924. 208 THECHISTORY 20 herr ‘Twenty full years had passed when there came a heavy cloud over the flock. Their much beloved Pastor, John Berk, met with a painful accident that resulted in blood poisoning. The pioneer Pastor began to realize that he would soon close his eyes to the scenes of this world and open them to the glories of his Lord and Savior. Fully reconciled, with the joy of a Christian in his heart, he said to those at his side, “I have never felt happier than I do at the present time. I know that my Redeemer liveth. I have endeavored in all earnestness to preach the truth to my devoted congregation.” Then the precious soul of a great and good pastor went heme at five o’clock in the morning of September the twenty-third, 1898. He was born March 23, 1836; ordained in 1862. SN Rev. Lucas Abels. The shepherdless flock began to scek and pray that they might find a “Man after God’s heart.” After many futile attempts to call a successor the congregation was called to meet on November 1, 1899. At this meeting the Rev. Lucas Abels of Ashton, Iowa, was chosen and unanimously called to serve as Stated Supply, which call he ac- cepted. On September 8, 1900, Rev. Abels was installed as pastor. His ministration in this pastorate continued almost sixteen years, when his strong frame began to indicate a decline in health. He be- gan to feel his inability to render the required service to the numer- PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 209 ical growth of his flock. After a lingering illness of several months he passed to his reward, September 12, 1915. On the fifteenth day of the same month a vast concourse of people gathered in tle church, where for sixteen years the pleasing voice of a powerful preacher had proclaimed the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was born December 17, 1851; ordained April 23, 1874. Again the question was asked, “Upon whom shali fall the mantle of the ascended ambassador of Christ?” “Whence shall we turn and where shall we seek?” Many names of ministers were suggested and cach declared that their particular choice weuld be the man suited to the field. In a congregational meeting held February 27, 1916, a unanimous call was voted for the pastoral services of Rev. Julius F. Schwarz, who was at that time Synodical District Superintendent of Home Missions for the Synod of Nebraska. The newly elected pastor assumed charge of the field May 1, 1916, and was installed as pastor August 27, 1916, which is also the anniversary day of the or- ganization of the church. Rev. Schwarz had just entered upon his ninth year with the Hickman church. He was born May 30, 1869; licensed to preach by the Presbytery of Dubuque, September 19, 1900, and ordained by the same Presbytery April 18, 1901. He rece ved the degree of Doctor of Divinity from the Hastings College in 1920. Albert E. Boell, a member of this church, was received under the care of the Presbytery of Dubuque as a candidate for the Gospe! Min- istry and entered upon his course of studies in 1899. He is at present the pastor of the Presbyterian church in George, Iowa. Members of the Session: Ludwig Remmert in 1880, Frederick Boeke and Ludwig Leirer in 1900, John M. Essert in 1899, Fred J. Grote in 1902, Henry B. Suiker in 1918, Frank G. Offer in 1917, Henry S. Heckman in 1919. In summing up this history the follow ng figures are to be noted: eGeine (amo lige Ey xcatnitita tO 1am eres eer oe eee ek ye ee 467 Lety OUR s Eh RET Gia 2 FEA SS ER abe era eS AN ee 87 iiorcalmlveceivedsintort ies Ghuncin mss 554 IDngimnseecl qrey (Ofnnvere (Ou bite RS os ogee ee ee eee 132 CeCe time D SCI ta ie [SIS € wees obec ein in eee see rk os ies od 69 PD EGEASE Uhm ree se se. ee ee en eee Bee Ne seg cates ta wt 64 -, “GR@uelY ANGH Gay pycsered We ens arp et ot ean ee ee ee 265 Ateiell IN\ieimpyesr Chi (Cropenviahbronceyinis: oe ee 289 The church has contributed towards Benevolences .... $27,466.00 For General Assembly, Synodical and Presbyterial ........ 881.72 For congregational current expenses and buildings ... 53,039.57 WANES Cop ee Leet le Rt) ts eee Rae a ene ieee $81,387.29 14 210 (THEA HISTOR MO PEE The church has a Sabbath school with an enrollment of about 175; a Ladies’ Aid Society, Christian Endeavor Society, Senior, Jun- ior and Intermediate; and a Young Ladies’ Guild. The officers of the church at the present time are: Elders: J. Henry Fieselman, Paul G. Fieselman, George Kling, Henry J. Oldermeyer, M. T. S. Liesveld and John Petermeyer. Deacons: Ira Birt, Benamin Offer, Fred P. Lesoing, Charley H. May, John Kuster and Frank Ver Meer. Trustees: Guy Birt, Benjamin F. Garner, Jake Kuster, Otto Wissel and Albert Wissel. Che Fdeal Minister's Wife ———__ I’rom bungalows to mansions large She move with easy grace, And tries to make the furniture Fit any kind of place. The rugs, they almost never fit, The curtains, not at all; The draperies, they clash and fight With paper on the wall. Some wives would sit them down and cry, Some vow they’d quit this life, But not the one I sing about— My ideal minister’s wife. In parish new and faces strange, Five hundred names she learns in haste, Nor fails to tell the manse committee The house is fitted to her taste; The town’s just right, the climate, too; The Church is surely grand; To say it all and mean it, too, Well—say, it takes some sand. To fix in mjgnd each face she meets, To never show she’s blue, To smooth the ruffled plumage Of disgruntled members, too; To sympathize, to ‘help, to share The burdens of the flock, Nor let the parson’s Monday rest Be holden to the clock. So there’s to you, ye wives of us— God bless you every one, You've never failed us, come what might, From morn to set of sun; You strengthen us, hold up our hands, As did the saints of old; You write up half our sermons, If very truth be told. Some wives would sit them down and cry, Name o’er their burdens all their live S, But not the ones we sing about— Oh, you ideal ministers’ wives! E. A. Thompson, in The Congregationalist, CONDENS AN Dai N DEX; CHAPTER IV. HALF A CENTURY OF PRESBYTERIANISM IN OMAHA, NEBRASKA. Name of Church Page First: Gaur Ine. secs cs eta ee ay ee cee ee 214 Central Chur ch 2 2 Se eee ee en ee eee 219 Southwest 4M "Sse tty cscs soe ee eer ee 219 Third Ghurec he ae ee ee See ee 219 Secorid -Churchias £03 yo Te ee na eee ee 220 Knox: Chiatr ch Moe foie ee ee 220 North *Church 22228 ee eee 8 ee ee 221 South) Omahay Wheeler ire rece ee ee eee 226 First: German, ‘Bethany. eee ee ee 23m Clifton. Hill oe ee ee ee eee eee 242 Covenants Chir ci ecco sa aaa eee 232 Parkvale “Chrurcht efecto ee eg ee ee 232 Westminster “Church! 202.242 2:n See ee ee 236 LowecAvenue, Church™ 2s Ste eet eee eee 241 Dundee; Church. 5.288:..0. ee 244 Castéllar StreetuClrure hy ete res oe ee 228 Forest.Chapel seciv.05 bec ce ee os 217 Omaha, Bohemian Brethrenms 231 Bohemian Church Souths © ria hia eee eee eee ee 231 Benson: Church ve. ee oa 244 Fairview Church, 22/2125. no eee 235 Miller Park Church >.2223.3. ee 243 Saint .Paul’s”. Chapel cr 0e cece srecece tcc cessug ute See 244 Church Extension ; Work 2.24.22. 51.23 5c ee 243 Educational -Developments sho). 20-30. o0 ee eee 245 Qmaha Theclogicalu Seminary sae ee ee eee 82 , 245 University, of (Omaha! 7222 ee 248 Illustrations: University -Buidinos 22... 2 ee ee 251 Che Mother Church Edifice of the First Presbyterian Church, formerly located at Seventeenth and Dodge Streets, Omaha Nebraska. CHAPTER IV: A HALF-CENTURY OF PRESBYTERIANISM IN OMAHA, NEBRASKA. First Presbyterian Church of Omaha, Neb. Aside from the existing Presbyteries, an ecclesiastical organiza- tion of the Presbyterian Church has been maintained in Omaha since its beginning in 1857. The new village at that date began improving rapidly. The population was estimated at 1,600. In April, 1857, the Rev. George P. Bergen, a missionary of the Old School Presbyterian Church, came to Nebraska, and on June 14, of that year, organized the First Presbyterian church of Omaha, the initiatory sermon being preached by the Rev, A. F. Billingly of Flor- ence. In this organization Dr. John M. Kuhn, Robert Smiley and Dan- Jel Gantt were-elected Ruling PiderswO, P Hurford eal Cook and B. D. Barkalow, deacons of the church, the other members consisting of Dr. G. C. Monell and wife, Mrs. Mary M. Bently, Mrs. J. M. Kuhn, Mrs. Robert Smiley, Mrs. Daniel Gantt, Mrs. B. P. Barkalow, Mrs. E. F. Cook, Miss Anna M. Monell and Miss Nannie Smiley. Rev. Bergen remained with the church until April, 1859, when he withdrew to other fields of labor, leaving the society without a pas- tor until December of the same year, when Rev. George Webster as- sumed the pastorate, with Ezra Millard and John R. Meredith as Ruling Elders. Rev. Webster continued with the congregation until June, 1860, when the church weakened by internal dissensions, and, weary of fighting against financial difficulties, gave up the struggle for existence as an organization, and practically dissolved, although but few of its members united at this time with other churches. There was also a financial panic, which continued through the year 1858, which held in check the progress of both the village and the church, Prior to the arrival of Rev. Bergen and before any Presbyterian church organization whatsoever had been effected, a Sabbath school was established in a private school room on Howard street. This was on July 20, 1856. The records show William Young Brown to have been superintendent and John Kellom assistant superintendent. The teachers were A. Kountze, T. J. Herford, James W. Virtue, James Graham, Mrs. J. H. Kellom, Mrs. Dr. Miller, Miss A, J. Goud- will and Miss L. A. Goodwill. Of the pupils there appear the names of Carrie Goodwill, Pholona Lemon, Jenny Lind Lemon, Franklin Lemon and William Henry Lemon. This school appears to have been something of a union organization, the subsequent establishment of various churches causing a disintegration of its elements. but its i- PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 215 dentity was preserved throughout the year, until in 1857 it was ab- sorbed, or taken in charge by the Presbyterian church, by this church it was conducted until June, 1860, at which time it had fifty- one pupils enrolled. Rey. Francis M. Dimmick was sent to the field by the New School Board of Missions to establish a society, if it seemed practicable. Rev. Dimmick was a graduate of the Lane Theological Seminary of Cin- cinnate, Ohio. On November 7, 1860, he was ordained to the Gospel Ministry in the Second Presbyterian church of Cincinnate On the 27th of the same month he started for the West. His first sermon in Omaha was preached in the Congregational church, December 15, 1860. On Wednesday, December the 19th, a meeting was held at which an organization was resolved upon, this being accomplished December 23, 1860, with a membership of twenty-four, twenty-one cf whom were admitted by letter. The name was chosen as “The Sec- ond Presbyterian Church of Omaha.” The Ruling Elders of the new church were Andrew R. Orchard, Robert Mitchell and John H. Kellom. Deacons: Oliver P. Hurford and Edward F. Cook. Trus- tees: James P. Black, Oliver P. Hurford and Edward F. Cook. The organization was incorporated by special act of Territorial Legislature, January 11, 1861, with John H. Kellom, A. R. Orchard, E. F. Cook, O. P. Hurford and Robert Mitchell, Incorporators. Rev. Dimmick continued to preach regularly in the Congregation- al church until the last of March, 1861, when he went to the east to endeavor, in the face of severe stringency of the times, to obtain funds to assist in erecting a church edifice, a trip that was doomed to disappointment. He returned on August 22. and on the 25th and the Sabbath succeeding, again preached in the Congregational churceli- The society then removed to the Baptist church located on Douglas between Fifteenth and Sixteenth streets. Here they continued to worship until the 17th of November, 1861, when hv seating the Court House hall, they were enabled to occupy it, which they continued to do until June 5, 1864. At this time the Congregational church was without a pastor, and at the solicitation of that denomination, they returned to the Congregational church, Rev. Dimmick preaching to both societies un- til October 30, 1864, when the Presbyterians again had recourse to the Court House hall. They were here something over a year again, returning to the Congregational building on November 19, 1865, re~ maining until December 20, 1868. October 6. 1864, at the annual meeting of the church. the first steps were taken looking toward the erecting of a house of worship. The site was purchased at the corner of Seventeenth and Dodge streets for $1250. At this time the church had a membership of fifty- five communicants. In July 1866 the first contract was let for the 216 HEH bod ORO Bae Dr is new building and the basement completed sufficiently to hold a ser- vice in December, 1868. The building, when completed, cost about $30,000., and was dedicated in December, 1869. The congregation worshiped in this builling until June, 1916, when the property was sold for $50,000, and the building project at the present site, Farnam and 34th streets, was begun. There are four lots facing Farnam street, The parish house or Sunday school wing of the church was soon completed and occupied for church service until March, 1917, when the present beautiful and modernly equipped house of worship was dedicated at a cost of nearly $200,000 and has a seating capacity of 1,000. The total number of members at present is 1100. First Presbyterian Church, Omaha, Nebr. The pipe organ was installed at a cost of $16,000 by the United States Senator Millard and dedicated to the glory of God in sacred memory of Mrs. Millard. The bell in the tower was a gift from Mr. and Mrs. O. F. Davis. Mr. Davis was an elder of the church. He also established what is known as the “O. F. Davis Fund.” This fund grants loans to con- gregations wishing to meet their obligations in completing their house of worship. At the annual meeting in April, 1923, Mr. Walter Head, Pres- ident of the Omaha National Bank, presented an offer from Miss Jes- sie H. Millard, daughter of the late U S. Senator Millard, of $60,000 as a memorial gift in honor of her father for a new addition to the church edifice upon condition that the church wou!d purchase the PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. ZAT lots just west of the church, known as the Rosewater property and would pay for it within five years. The offer was accepted and the purchase price of $46,500 was subscribed. On the first of May, 1923, the pastor’s family moved into the new manse. The proposed new addition is purposed for expansion of the Sunday school and as a community center. In the sixty-four years of the existence of the church it has had only six pastors, namely: Installed ene IORI NL, TON bie oo ee December, 1860 Reva GEore er Daeote walters wen ee ee eres October, 1870 eng, WSU Ti. Welebese ly IDD), nee eee July, 1877 IRS. Wenrves INE: TAVIS ON Ny ees oo a ee eee May, 1893 Rev oanuelso eM cG@ormickieDeD hacia December, 1894 Incr IDahyater dake Ices. IDID). te eee October, 1899 Dr. Edwin Hart Jenks, D.D., was born March twenty-fourth, 1862, at Janesville. Wisconsin. He graduated from Hamilton Col- lege in 1886, and from the Auburn Seminary in 1888. He was licens- ed in April 1887 by the Presbytery of Cayuga, and ordained by the same Presbytery May, 1888. He has received the degrees of A. D. and A. M. from Hamilton College, and the title of Doctor of Divinity from Coe College. His first charge was at Lakeport, Cal., from 1888 to 1891; Red Bluff, Cal., from 1891 to 1895; First Church of San Fran- cisco from 1895 to 1898; Second Church of Los Angeles from 1898 to 1899. In 1899 he accepted the call to the First Presbyterian church of Omaha, entering upon his twenty-sixth year. The con- gregation has been enriched by a marked growth in membership during the present pastorate, and in appreciation of the untiring service rendered by Dr. Jenks an associate pastor, in the person of Rev. Elmer B. Whitcomb, was installed May 22, 1924. The first church has always had one or more missions under its care. One was the Mitchell Chapel near the Union Depot. This was abandoned when the railroad purchased all of the property for trackage. The Grace Chapel was started on Sixth and Williams streets, and was for many years supported by the First church until two years ago when it was turned over to the M. E. church. The church is now conducting a mission at Thirteenth and Phelps streets, where a beautiful chapel has been completed. This is known as Park Forest Chapel. It was originally under the care of the Castellar Street church and was started years ago under the pastorate of Dr. J. M. Wilson. The splendid work carried on by this mission with the cooperation of the First church and Church Ex- tension committee has revealed the utter inadequacy of the old build- ing and equipment, and in order to efficiently minister to the neigh- borhood which is without other Protestant religious influence, the present new site and building became a necessity. 218 JUs08; InLGSMROUR YY QUE Ielells. The officers of the church at the present time are: Ruling Elders Service Term Began Ends See eee DOSE G Keres acee eon ee eee eee em 1918 1924 [sxa@yonesse. NOXSNaUDNSS 5s po ec wi eee ee 1900 1924 WVIRES 2 (Gri DD Sp VL se 1D) ene ee mae cs sie ee a oa 1896 1924 AYN CUNE MEMES ee Wet b oul) cme eat sk eas ors Reames eae co Meas, 1920 1924 NWR BE Exo op ragicu ie eet rear yearend fetes Soe 1919 1924 EAM cGlasson ea ee oe ee ee 1920 1924 A Bil Gat pentetn sae srtent ie pate eet aes eee ee 1918 1925 Ate LO tid Bee ee ee ee 1888 1925 J Ra GOld ene Ses a ee 1923 1925 SY Vier al like ree ok eS ae re ee 1919 1925 Wed sires ial © yee IV cai) ears e eee eee eee, ae ne 1894 1925 Warren Siwitz le rier 5 ey eee aan eee 1920 1925 I ewuay cpa mle Vea Fhancy extent tt a cee io ate ee 1911 1926 PaWgeiueiweden.coulleiM tem nee cae ee ee ny te er ge oh oe 1923 1926 Brank Sb Glan abe tee ore teat 2 eae nae he ee 1914 1926 | DS SE Wa nS seer eee ee See ne ee 1923 1926 Howarde Ken ned ys see en ee eee 1917 1926 WAVmalhieWaawe NW WeKGrosmankelele cca ee he Sa ee ne 1912 1926 Deacons Ee SB rump atti obi, eters eee ee oe ne ee 1924 A. Aa* Kantie dy eer oe Ae aa ee ee 1924 Louis. Le IM ur p hie yr jeter eae ee ee 1924 it ER Ob erise 2 cso cee eee eee had ee ere 1924 FDS) GROG Stetson vi en ak Pee ree 1924 M> He Blackwellsecss5 3,8 SS ee ee oe) eee eee 1925 Hs Ru Bowen" 222) ae ee ee he ie ee 1925 Kennethiel inlaysor 2 sete ee ee 1925 Ay La Hobbs 2.7 ee ee ee 1925 Gee DereDunniclith pons ier et on ede 1925 We Wo Davenport 5 o's sic2 ice es een ere 1926 APRN OE a by ofov ably ee Ace pee ea eo ne ies es rol ewe 1926 JB. Ralph My D oe ae ae ee ee 1926 Al) FoatRaSp. Ae eee oe i he pale a ie es 1926 Ae Pel Wis Ot cg tceiea each ie karte oe one te 1926 Trustees Rov Viz Cole: take 2: oes ee he ee ee 1924 PalmerePindley,¢Mo D. omienctc ec ee 1924 Eilott Gilmore i Mero ee ee, i 1924 GAA? Grimmel eon Dae 28s ee ee see he 1924 C. MoeWilhelim, sete eo ee ee 1924 Ay Go SA Pénid Sara oe ay ear A = 1925 PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. AA Ty Esler 8 ee ches Cl Ne ees eee eee see nee Se Sea teeth cee 1925 ENN DSP San oN OR I err eee ero 1925 FEIN MUL OG, coker cbaan scab ee Seacrest ccna Sennen pate ner tenes incr emosnas 1925 WL OND Roget py Ce bute Ges Wc: SR cope: ara eS ARNO Sho eee = a Re Pee 1925 WSR aod SA gto oy Wak Co nga Mee Ve PP pee ete seen eee ere a 1926 INGE: Deh TEM fs ie a en RN eee a Ae Eee 1926 WAV ANS US CTGIP ooo a a i Soa a ee eee 1926 TENOR CHS ER MOPS ee a a ea ee rere eee ee 1926 Ge Woh ater ae tN Age MB) 6 ea ne eae er eres any Ar tee Ree oe eee cen eee 1926 Central Presbyterian Church. In December of 1870 Rev. Francis M. Dimmick returned to O- maha, and organized the Central Presbyterian Church, with a mem- bership of about eighty. They occupied the Tabernacle Baptist building, on Eighteenth street, where they worshiped as a society, until Rev. Dimmick received a call from California, whereupon the organization dissolved, most of the members returning and reunit- ing themselves with the church from which they came. The Southwest Presbyterian Mission, This mission, now known as the ‘Third Presbyterian church of Omaha, was originally a mission supported by the First church. This mission was organized in 1881, under the auspices of the ‘“Sec- ond Presbyterian church,” now known as the First Presbyterian church. It was through the arduous labors of Mr. Joseph France that this mission was called into existence. The building which it occupied on the corner of Twentieth and Leavenworth streets; was presented by Ezra Millard. On May 7, 1905. the Third Presbyterian church was organized by Rev. Edwin Hart Jenks, D.D., and Rev. John E. Spencer became the first pastor. There were seventy-five charter members, seven of whom are yet enrolled in the church. Sixty of said members transferred by letter from the mother church. Three elders composed ‘the first session, elected May 7, 1905: Wm. J. Morgan until 1907; Wm. McCormack until 1908, and A. D. Schermerhorn until 1909. Of these three Elder A. D. Schermerhorn continued as Ruling Elder in this church until his death in July, 1922. No history of Third would be complete without speaking of the large part he had in mak- ing Third what it has been through all these years. For eight years previous to the Third church organization he gave himself to mission Sunday school work in this place. He championed the cause of Third at very great sacrifice to himself. He was especially loyal to the Boards of the Church, ever determined that the church should 220 THESHISTORYeO ba Gib meet its quotas. Brother A. D. Schermerhorn and Brother Alexander Gray, with the church for sixteen years, set a standard for this church which has made it a mighty moral and spiritual force in this city. Nor must we omit the great labor of love of Mrs. Kate Copeland, who has long served as Parish Visitor. Thousands, old and young, rise up to call her blessed. Mrs. Copeland has been a constant fac- tor in the midst of the varying changes in Third. Her unceasing labors in behalf of the church and of the community have borne most precious fruit. The following have served this church as pastor or stated supply: John E. Spencer, 1905-1906, Joseph B. Cherry, Ph.D., 1906-1908, William E. Todd, 1908-1910, F. P. Ramsey, Ph.D., 1910-1912, Charles" Herron, DIDF 1913-1915; Robert Carr, 1915-1917, Raymond J. Rutt, 1918-1821, Wm. H. Jordan, 1921-1924. Present Session: Floyd Rosenfelt, Clerk; Wm. H. Vickery, Harry H. Saroo‘an, Elmer J. Larson, Ernest L. Decker. Third is a down town mission center, composed mostly of young people, and is without adequate income for the great work it should be doing. Its membership changes rapidly, but its work in the midst of a cosmopolitan population never diminishes. Its property is worth at least $25,000, and its membership is 160. Second Presbyterian Church The Second Presbyterian church was organized under the name of the North Church, February 27, 1881, with forty-five charter mem- bers. mostly from the mother church, (The First), and was located at Twenty-fourth and Nicholas streets. This organization grew out of a Sabbath school begun in 1877. O. H. Ballou and N. S. Miner were the first Ruling Elders. Rev. Francis S. Blayney was chosen as the first pastor. Rev. W. R. Henderson was installed in 1886. He was succeeded by Rev. Samuel M. Ware, D.D., in 1891. Rev. Robert M. Stevenson, D.D., entered the field in 1900. The Rev. Newman H. Burdick was installed in 1904. The pastoral relation between Rey. Burdick and the Second churchxwas dissolved July 5, 1908. The Knox Prebyterian Church. The Knox Presbyterian Church was organized October 30, 1887. Thirteen persons were enrolled at the organization as charter mem- bers. The first pastor was Rev. Jaul Martin, who remained with the PRESBYTERIANSCHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 221 church one year, during which time the membership of the church was increased to fifty-seven. Rev. Martin was succeeded by Rev. Asa Leard, D.D., who began his work with the church June 1, 1889. The church building was purchased in the spring of 1888 and was located on the southwest corner of Nineteenth and Ohio streets. In 1889 it was remodeled and the seating capacity enlarged. The members of the Session in 1907 were S. C. Tuthill, Robert LemMickachrOn wm CmeAw Otani wm Hea tan Coulter: s lowe tive VVialtoum lr Vive O. Henry and D. W. Morrow. Deacons: S. C. Tuthill, Edward McEachron, H. L. Tostevin, D. W. Morrow, A. A. Lamereaux and Geerge Lower. Trustees: C. A. Starr, James H. Stokes, W. D. Crawford, Frank Martin, E. W. Lamereaux and G. H. Kelly. Rev. M. DeWitt Long, D.D., was the pastor in 1901-1905. Rev. Melvin V. Higbee, D.D., became pastor in 1905 and was then called to the pulpit in 1909, of the Second and Knox churches which were merged into one church assuming the name “The North Church of Omaha.” The North Church of Omaha. Dr. S. J. Spaulding, trustee of the Second Presbyterian church of Omaha, Nebraska, presented to the Presbytery of Omaha an auth- enticated document from the minutes of the session of the Second Presbyterian church, concerning the desired union of the Second and the Knox churches of Omaha. On the fourteenth day of May, 1908, an informal meeting was held at the Knox Presbyterian church, to consider the advisability of uniting with the congregation of the Second Presbyterian church. The Second church had sixteen members represented and the Knox church fifteen. Dr. S. K. Spaulding, of the Second Presbyterian church, was chosen Chairman, and W. H. Anderson, of the Knox Presbyterian church, clerk, The meeting was opened with prayer and a general discussion took place, which was participated in by most of those present, after which the following resolution was offered: Whereas, the sentiment expressed by this meeting has been unan- imous in regard to the advisability of uniting the two congregations, Resolved, That a committee of three from each church be ap- pointed to bring before the sessions of the respective churches the expression of the meeting, with a view of ascertaining the desire of the respective churches, and if favorable to a union of the two churches, to secure the appointment of a committee from each con: gregation to perfect arrangements. The resolution received the unanimous vote and the chairman was requested to appoint a committee and that the proposed commit- Lhe THE HISTORYS Ors Lite tee be instructed to bring the matter before their respective congre- gations. Members of the committee were: From the Second church, Dr. S. K. Spaulding, Charles F. Robel and Ernest H. Hoel. From the Knox church, Frank Martin, A. A. Lamereaux and W. H. An- derson. The above joint action was read at a called meeting of the con- gregation of the Second Presbyterian church, held May 27, 1908, being made a part of the record of said congregational meeting, and the following action in reference thereto was unanimously taken: That it be the sense of this meeting that a union with Knox Presbyterian church is desirable, as recommended by the session and outlined by the informal meeting. On motion of S. K. Spaulding, C. F. Robel and E. H. Hoel were appointed a committee to confer with a like committee from Knox church in reference to union, and together to confer with the Pres- bytery of Omaha in this matter. Elders A. A. Lamereaux and W. E. Findley, representing the Knox Church, appeared before Presbytery and likewise expressed a desire concurring in the statements favoring the proposed union of the Second and Knox churches. Presbytery appointed a committee of three, composed of Rey. William S. Fulton, D.D., Rev. Daniel E. Jenkins, D.D., Ph.D., and Elder H. E. Maxwell to cooperate in the movement of union between the two churches and to act as an advisory committee and report their progress to Presbytery. At a meeting of Pesbytery held June 29, 1908, the special com- mittee submitted a report containing the following recommendations which were adopted and identical petitions presented from the Sec- ond and Knox churches: At a congregational meeting of the Knox Presbyterian church of Omaha, Nebraska, held on Wednesday evening, June 24, 1908, the following resolutions were adopted: Resolved: 1. That the joint committee report in favor of the two churches uniting. 2. That the committee recommend that the location of the new church be within three blocks of Twenty-second and Binney streets. %. That the Committee recommend that as soon as the union is completed, immediate steps be taken for the purchase of a site and the erection of a church building. 4. That fin the judgment of the committee it is advisable that as soon as united, the two congregations meet regularly for worship in the Knox church until the new building is completed. 5. That it is the sense of the committee that the present names, “Second” and “Knox,” be dropped and recommend that the name PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 223 of the united church be the “North Presbyterian Church,” with the understanding that if thought best the name may be changed Jater. 6. That in the opinion of the joint committee the Sabbath school of the Second church should be maintained. 7. That in the uniting of the churches, the legal matters with reference to the union be referred to Mr. H. E. Maxwell. 8. That we recommend to the congregations that the Presby- tery be asked to_consummate this union. 9. That the joint committee recommends that the members of the sessions of the two churches now in active service be installed as the Board of Elders of the new church. 10. That the committee recommends to the congregations of the two churches that the Rev. Melvin V. Higbee be appointed sup- ply of the pulpit and Moderator of the session of the “North Presby- terian Church” until the congregation of the said “North” Presby- terian church has regularly called a pastor. 11. That the committee ecommends to the two congregations that the boards of trustees of the two churches be authorized and directed to take such steps as may be necessary to convey the real property belonging to the two churches to the “North” Presbyterian church as soon as it is constituted by Presbytery and legally or- ganized. 12. That the committee recommends that the congregations each appoint two commissioners to present to Presbytery the request for union. The duly accredited representatives of the Knox and Second churches, viz., W. H. Anderson and D. W. Morrow, of the Knox church, and Ernest Hoel and C. F. Robel of the Second church were heard. Rey. Wm. S. Fulton, D.D., reported in behalf of his committee which had been appointed to cooperate and advise with the named churches. The report was read and was adopted by the Presbytery of Omaha as follows: Whereas, The congregations of the Second and Knox Presby- terian churches of Omaha, Nebraska, have presented their request that the said churches be united into one church to be known as the North Presbyterian church of Omaha, Nebraska; be it therefore Resolved: 1. That the request be granted, and that the Second and Knox Presbyterian churches of Omaha, Nebraska, be united, and that the North Presbyterian church be hereby constituted. This action is to take effect July 5, 1908, and that, to complete this action, the Stated Clerk of Presbytery be directed to remove the names of the Second and Knox churches from the roll of churches, and to place upon the roll the name of the North Presbyterian church of Omaha, Nebraska. 224 THE: HISTORY OR THE 2. That in accordance with the request of the said churches the members of the sessions of said churches now in active service be duly installed and constituted in the manner presccribed in the Con- stitution of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America as the session of the North Presbyterian church, and as such be placed upon the roll of elders of the Presbytery. 3. That the said session be directed to enroll as members of the North Presbyterian church all members of the Second and Knox Presbyterian churches of Omaha as may be found on the rolls on July 5, 1908. 4. That the corporations of the said Second and Knox Presby- terian churches of Omaha, Nebraska, through their duly appointed trustees be directed to finish whatever business be necessary to wind up the affairs of the two corporations aforesaid; and to make report at the fall meeting of Presbytery, so that, if possible, the said cor- porations may then be dissolved. 5. That the official records of the said Second and Knox Pre:- byterian churches be preserved and held as making part of the his- tory of the North Presbyterian church of Omaha, Nebraska. 6. That, in accordance with the request of the two congregations of the Second and Knox Presbyterian churches, the Rey. Melvin V. Higbee be appointed supply of the pulpit and moderator of the session of the North Presbyterian church until the congregation of the said North Presbyterian church has regularly called a pastor. Committee: Wn. §S. Fulton Daniel E. Jenkins, H. E. Maxwell. Consummation of the Union: “Tt was resolved, that the Second Presbyterian church and the Knox Presbyterian church, both of Omaha, Nebraska, be and ate hereby united in one church as agreed upon in the plan of union, to take effect July 5, 1908. That the united church be known as the North Presbyterian church of Omaha, Nebraska.” The records of the session of the Second and Knox churches were referred to the committee on Sessional Records for final ex- amination, The Rev. William S. Fulton, D.D., was commissioned by the Presbytery of Omaha to communicate the action of Presbytery and announced the same publicly to the congregations, when assembled, July 5, 1908, for formal consummation of the union. The elders installed to constitute the session of the North Pres- bytetian church were: J. H. Stokes, Dr. E. L. Alexander, W. C. Mc- Lean, C. F. Robel, J. Trench, A. N. Eaton, F. M. Hamling, J. H. PRESBYTERIAN~ CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 225 Phelps, W. H. Anderson, A. A. Lamereaux, R. A. McEachron, D. W. Morrow, W. E. Findley and Frank Martin. A Board of Trustees having been chosen by the North Presby- terian church, the property of the Second and Knox churches was transferred to the North Presbyterian church of Omaha, Nebraska. The property of the Second church was transferred by the Trus- tees of the Second Presbyterian church in a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Second Presbyterian church on September 7, 1908. The Trustees present were, E. H. Hoel, H. J. Hughes, S. F. Miller, E, B. Egan and George J. Bird. Motion by H. J. Hughes, seconded by E. B. Egan, that the officers of the board be authorized to transfer the property of the Second Presbyterian church to the North Presbyterian church, was carried unanimously. S. F. Miller moved with a second by E. B. Egan that all monies in the Building Fund of the Second Presbyterian church be transfer- red to the Treasurer of the Building Committee of the North Presby- terian church, to be used for building purposes. The motion was carried without a dissenting voice. Treasurer Hughes reported all current expenses and obligations of the church were paid. The Secretary was instructed to attend the meeting of Presby- tery and make the report of the Board The Board of Trustees of the Knox Presbyterian church of Omaha, Nebraska, met September 10, 1908. The members present were Ed. McEachron, Chairman; W. D. Crawford, Treasurer; H. O. Hobbs, Secretary; and O. A. Scott. Motion was made by O. A. Scott, seconded by W. D. Crawford, that the duly authorized officers of the Knox Presbyterian church of Omaha, deed over to the North Presbyterian Church of Omaha, Neb- raska, all property belonging to the said Knox Presbyterian church. The motion prevailed. The actions of the two boards were reported to the Presbytery of Omaha and are recorded in the printed Minutes of the Presbytery on pages ninety-three and ninety-four. (September 1908.) The North church was granted permission by the Presbytery to locate the new proposed church edifice anywhere within a radius of three blocks of Twenty-second and Binney streets. The congregation of the North Presbyterian church purchased lots on the northeast corner of Twenty-fourth and Wirt streets where an attractive and modernly equipped house of worship has been erected at a cost of $50,000. The main auditorium has a seating capa- city of 400. The lecture and Sabbath school rooms have been pro- vided with class rooms all of which are so arranged that each class may remain in its department and participate in all of the Sabbath 15 226 THE HISTORY OFeiue school services and exercises. The basement furnishes a large dining-room with a well equipped kitchen. A pipe organ has been installed at the cost of $6,000. Rev. Melvin V. Higbee, D.D., was regularly called as pastor and installed September 24, 1908. The pastoral relation was dissolved in 1917, when Dr. Higbee accepted a call from the Presbyterian church of Boone, Iowa. The Rev. James M. Wilson, D.D., succeeded Dr. Higbee and was installed January 21, 1918. In 1921, Dr. Wilson accepted the call to the President’s chair of the Presbyterian Theological Seminary of Omaha, Nebraska, and on November 30 of the same year he was inaugurated and duly installed to the task of the presidency of the Seminary. It was in the happy choice of the congregation that the Rev. James M. Hamilton was attracted to the pastorate of this church, and installed October 13, 1921. Rev. Hamilton reports progress in this important field and a membership of 580. The Bench of Elders constituting the session: D. W. Morrow, Robert A. McEachron, A. N. Eaton, A. A. Lamereaux, C. W. Cain, W. R. Patrick, John A. Patterson, W. S. Bloss, Hi HY Andreason, W. G. James. H. F. Janssen, O. O. Treadwell, Harry Herzog, Roy R. Scarr and Frank Martin, The Deaconate: E. W. Gwynn Vaughan, R. R. Scarr, Amandus J. Schwarz, R. A. Hershey, R. D. Bowman and H. H. Andreason. The Board of Trustees: O. A. Scott, H. J. Hughes, Bryce Craw- ford Dab Bercivals VWallandeM cBachtoneel. sien Golson V\Vilvemioat rick, Charles B. Helmer and H. M. Brockway. The R. L. Wheeler Memorial Presbyterian Church South Omaha, Nebraska. The First Presbyterian church of South Omaha, was organized May 29, 1887, by Robert L. Wheeler, D.D., pastor of the Ponca Presbyterian church, and delegate to the General Assembly then in session at Omaha. Rev. George M. Lodge was present, with the expectation of assuming charge of this field, and moved to Ambler Place, Omaha, The first Ruling Elders were: James Clark and Robert Bishop. The first Trustees were Robert T. Maxwell, Chester Case, and A. W. Hibbard. The charter members were: Frances E. Wells, Miss Carrie B. Pearl, James Clark, Robert Bishop, J. W. Ferguson and wife, S. A. McBain, Mrs. Mary E. Wilson, Mrs. Nellie E. Pinney and Mrs. Louisa Stoddard. F The first building at Twenty-fifth and J Streets was dedicated December 18, 1887. It cost $1418. The second building at Twenty- PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. Z2t First Presbyterian Church, of South Omaha fifth and J Streets, was dedicated on Sunday, February 7, 1892. It cost $10,000. The third building, at Twenty-third and J Streets was dedicated in 1910, at an expense of one hundred thousand dollars, including pipe organ and fixtures. The present pastor, Rev. Elmer E. Emhoff, reports a membership of 703. In April, 1922, Dr. Wheeler was at his request made pastor- emeritus, “for his natural term of life,” and with his wife, Nancy Blew, is yet active. The Rev. J. E. Spencer served as associate pas- tor, and later as pastor, from October 1921 to December, 1923. Rev. E. E. Emhoff accepted a call to the pastorate March 2, 1924, and so continues, with his session, Perry MacD. Wheeler, Clerk; Wm. Bar- (Clyne NOD etsy em oan © OO lcm Guetian ©O OKs) an View Pattonnm ene Thurlow, H. M. Wells, A. H. Murdock, M. G. Zerbe and R. M. Marrs. The Trustees are: A. D. Majors, President; D. R. Barclay, Clerk; C. F. Oliver, Treasurer, and A. E. Miller, W. A. Berger, Edgar Jackson, Charles Winter, G. F. Beavers, Charles D. Eads. Custodian, John H. Rieper. At the ‘spring session in 1916 of the Presbytery of Omaha, in petition, this church was permitted to change its corporate name, from the First Presbyterian church of South Omaha, to that of the R. L. Wheeler Memorial Presbyterian church, on account of the merger of the two cities. The request was granted and the new name so enrolled by the Presbytery of Omaha. The Mosher Memorial Presbyterian church at Forty-ninth and R streets, with a membership of about 75, is an outgrowth of the Wheeler Memorial church, under the early care of the Circle of King’s Daughters. Improvements costing some $2500 are now in progress, The church is independent, but is under the tutelage of the Executive Committee of the Pres- bytery of Omaha. Dr. Wheeler was licensed September, 1876, by the Presbytery of Omaha and ordained in September, 1877. By order of Rev. John 228 THESIS LOK Ya ORS rE Hall, Assembly’s chairman of Home Missions, Dr. Wheeler left Ponca and began his work as Stated Supply at South Omaha, May 1, 1888, later was instal'ed as pastor, and in 1922 was made Pastor- Emeritus, having served thirty-four continuous years in the South Omaha church under pastoral relations. Because of his faithful labors on frontier lines of north Nebraska the degree of Doctor of Divinity was suggested by General Assembly’s committee on Home Missions, and conferred by the Bellevue College in 1895. Castellar Presbyterian Church, Omaha, Neb. The Castellar Presbyterian church was organized on January 16, 1886, with eighteen charter members. The Sabbath school had been started in June, 1884, by Rev. T. C. Hall, later paster of the Fourth church of Chicago. Mrs. Sarah Johnson and Mrs. Jeanie Patrick (Mc- Intosh) were the early workers in the Sabbath school. Elder and Mrs. Perine, First Presbyterian church, also rendered valuable as- sistance in the early history of the Sabbath ‘school. The lot had been purchased and the original chapel begun in the latter part of 1883. The lot co.st $1100. The Ladies’ Missionary Society was organized July 31, 1884, and the Young People’s Union, now the Christian Endeavor Society, in the summer of 1886. In ad- dition to the immediate home work, the Ontario Mission school was commenced in the spring of 1887, the Grace Mission at Sixth and William streets, later belonging to the First church, December, 1888, and the Park Forest in April, 1892. The church building was enlarged in the fall of 1890, and has a seating capacity of 500. Besides, there are two houses upon the lot whose rent also go towards the running expenses of the church. The mortgage indebtedness was $3,230, and the entire value of the church property was $23,000 in 1893. Part of the mortgage, $1,530, was a loan without interest, so it was paid back at the rate of ten percent a year on the original of $1,700. The growth of the church has been uninterrupted. The eldership has been advanced from one to seven: the trustees from three to seven, and the deacons to six, The mem- bership has likewise increased. In 1886 it was 18; in 1887, 51; in 1888, 89; in 1889, 103; ‘in 1890, 116; in 1891, 165; in 1892, 200 and in 1893, 285. It may safely be said that all departments of the work have progressed. The Sabbath school in particular has reached an average attendance of about 300, and the benevolent work of the church has always received recognition. In only two cases during seven years has she failed to take an offering for all the boards. A forward step was taken April 1, 1892, in the matter of finances. The congregation which had hitherto received aid from the Board of Home Missions, assumed self-support. The experiences of the year have shown the wisdom of the advance. The trustees reported at the PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA: 229 annual meeting a year of financial prosperity. During the year (1893) a Junior Christian Endeavor, Ladies’ Aid, and the Park Forest Mis- sion school were added to the elective work. The latest movement was made on April 27, 1924. The pastor’s salary was raised to $1500. In looking back over the seven years history, we can unitedly say, ‘Hitherto hath the Lord helped us,’ and looking forward even seven years before us, we may as confidently say, “Henceforth the Lord will help us.” Charter Members. The first entry on the church register is that of the 16th of Jan- uary, 1886. It consists of eighteen persons, six men and twelve wo- men. The building since then has been twice en'arged. In 1903 there remained only three of the charter members: Mrs. Sarah E. Johnson, Mrs, Evaline Koopman and Mrs. Jeanie Patrick (McIntosh.) In 1924 only the last named remains. Seven have died while others have removed from the city. Soon after the organization was cffected a call was given to Rev. James Marquis Wilson who was then a student at McCormick Theo- logical Seminary at Chicago. The call was accepted and Rev. Wilson was ordained and installed the 6th of June. 1°°6. He served for thirteen years, 1886 to 1899, being fo'lowed by Rev. Alva R. Scott, Ph.D., who was followed by Rev. Winthrop Allison. He was suc- ceeded by Rev. Walter H. Revnolds DD., who was installed on the 23rd of December, 1902. The ministers who followed were Rev. Ralph H. Houseman, Rev. C. C. Meek. Rev. Walter H. Halsey, (sup- ply,) Rev. C. A. Burkholder and Rev. P. Dagley, who removed from the field this summer (1924.) The first elder was John Hare. The first elders under Dr. J. M. Wilson were Walter Vandercreek. Joe Graner. B. N. Robertson, J. W. Taylor, Dr. R. E. Esk‘Idson and George E. Crosley. In 1890 the elders were S. W. Barker. William Hare, William Stevenson, B. N. Robertson and J. A. Bradley. In 1924 the following are the elders: C. Reid, W. S. Crichson, Ed. Vernon, Fred Knoll, Walter Krelle, and John Green, clerk, 15th and Vinton streets. The Deacons are Herman Krelle and Ben Koopman. The Trustees are Hetbert K. Dunn, L. D. Pickard, C. H. Shoess- ler, Herman Krelle, Ben L. Koopman and Fred H. Meyer. In 1898 the membership was 378, in 1901, 405, and in 1923, 232. The encroachment of other denominations into the territery for- merly served by the Castellar church was a factor in materially re- ducing the numbers of member in said church. ‘yoinyDd Iejeised 9Y43 JO saeIeU ][e9110} “SIH 9Y? peystuiny sey Aaypeig “apy “AaTpeag “y uYyof ‘sy pue “ay{ puke “yoInys eyYi Jo sioquisw JazIeYyD BuTAlA -ins Ayuo yo1aeg Auuaf siyy pue uos[IA\ [eByoeY ss1{ ee Ydessojoyd oy jo moi yuOY 24} uO ssoy} suoWYy ‘6681 97 988T “q ‘q ‘UOsTIA\ sInbaey sauef ‘ary ey? jo azeiojsed ay} SsueioWsWWODS “476, “6, A[n{ yzed poomwmyq 3e uoTUNal ke PPy 49-4yL “eyewoO ul yoinyD uelezAqsaig rejaised ay} Sulpusjje s1aM aydoad asayi ose s1eah aag-AquoM |] PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 231 Bohemian Brethren Presbyterian Church, Omaha. The Bohemian Brethren church is located at the northwest cor- ner of Fifteenth and Hickory streets in Omaha, Nebraska. This church had its beginning in 1888-1889, when two members of the Castellar Presbyterian church, Joseph Vladyka and Charlotte Ber- anek became interested in the Bohemian population. In company with their pastor, Rev. James M. Wilson, D.D., they gathered a group of Bohemian speaking people in the congregational chapel on Sixteenth and Hickory streets. Preaching services were begun Au- gust 25, 1889, with thirty-five persons in attendance. With the help of the Board of Church Erection and friends in Omaha, a chapel was erected, which after twelve years was moved to the present church site. Rev. William Harsha, D.D., at the time pastor of ‘the First Presbyterian church of Omaha, and Rev. V. Pisek rendered helpful service in consummating the organization. Rev. Jar. Dobias was the next to minister to the growing group. Of the original thirty-seven members five are still living, Jan and Barbara Blagck, Joseph Blagek, Emilie Schiller and S. A. Beranek. The first church officers were Jan Blagek, F. Nesladek, J. Kadavy, A. Schiller and S. A. -Beranek. The present officers are: Elders: J. Sabacky, V. Prochagka and J. Lefler. Deacons: A. Musil and Adam Kantor. Deaconesses: Misses F. Pelecka and A. Votavova. The following ministers have rendered most acceptable service as pastors and supplies: Rev. A. Paulu, from January, 1890 to June, 1891, Rev. Jan. Pipal, from December, 1891 to December, 1896, Rev. Jar. Dobias, from October 1899 to October, 1905, Rev. B. A. Filipi, from October, 1906 to January, 1914. The present pastor, Vac. Cejnar, began his pastorate June, 1914. He reports eighty communicants. Bethlehem Presbyterian Church, of the Bohemian and Moravian Brethren, Omaha, Neb. This church is a direct daughter of the Bohemian Brethren Presbyterian church of Omaha, and was organized May 5, 1901. The church edifice is located at 5213 South 21st street, South Omaha, and is valued at $8,000 with an equipment valued at $900. The church has a manse. The present enrollment is twenty-one communicants: eighty are enrolled in the Sabbath school. Vaclav Barta is the only Elder. The pastors who have supplied this church are: Rev. Jaroslav Dobias, Rev. Vaclav Minniberger, Rev. Bohdam Filipi, Rev. Emmanuel Kallina,, Rev. Vaclav Cejnar and the present pastor, Rev. Charles Joseph Koukol. 232 (THESES LO River O hates Church of the Covenant, Omaha, Neb. (1893) The Covenant Presbyterian church of Omaha was organized as the Bedford Place Presbyterian church, December 5, 1893, with the following members: I. G. Kennedy, Mrs. M. Kennedy, Charles Ross, Mrs. L. Ross, C. F. Gardner, Mrs. Gardner, J. W. Tait and Mrs. Tait, Miss Essie Tait, Mrs. J. L. Reed, Miss Emma Reed, Mrs. J. V. Plymp- ton, and Mrs. M. (Wescott. C. F. Gardner was elected Elder and the rotary system was adopted for the election of Elders. Charles Ross, I. G. Kennedy, J. Tait and C. F. Gardner were elected as Trustees. The church was organized by Rey. S. M. Ware as a committee appointed by the Presbytery of Omaha, in the home of Mr. Tait, 2821 North 28th street. A property was secured near 31st and Evans streets. The name was changed to that of “The Church of the Cov- enant,” on March 27, 1904, at which time there were forty members. The present location, 27th and Pratt streets, was purchased about 1906. The value of the church property is $10,000. Cne hundred and forty-one communicants are reported. Among the early ministers were Rev. S. T. Davis, Rev. F. Tonge, Rey. Knox Boude, Rey. T. S. Hawley and Rev. A. B. Jamison. The later pastors were Rev. Richard T. Bel', Rev. Charles H. Fleming. Rev. F. H. Grace is the present pastor. The members of the session are D. A. Bertrand, Clerk; Wm. Koch, W. E. Stalnaker, Wm. Morgan, Fred Dicksen and Harry Chistophersen. The Trustees are: James Gardner, Earl Orr, Fred Dickson, Fred Talmage, Art. Marshall, Louis Eckels and F. P. Herford. Parkvale Presbyterian Church of Omaha, Neb. The Parkvale Presbyterian church was originally organized by the Omaha Association of Congregational churches and known as the Parkvale Congregational Church and Society. Desiring to be received into the Presbytery of Omaha and thus be enrolled as a Presbyterian church was made known in the fol- lowing communication and actions of said church: “Omaha, Nebraska, December 6, 1911. Presbyterian Brethren in Christ, Greeting:- We would invite your attention to the following from the min- utes of our business meeting, which is self-explanatory: ‘A meeting was held December 3, 1911, of the congregation of Parkvale Congregational Church and Society, called by the Trustees, at which Mr. W. B. Nicks presided as chairman, and E. C. Wiibur acted as clerk. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. HER A quorum being present, the matter of the future of this church was discussed. The Trustees announced that the Congregational Union of Omaha had failed to fulfill its obligation to Parkvale peo- ple to assist them in securing a new church location. It therefore appeared necessary and desirable to make other and immediate ar- rangements, if possible, to conserve the preliminary work which had been accomplished along these lines. To this end it was moved and seconded that the congregation invite the Presbyterians to take over our church orgasization and property with its present incumbrances, the same to become a Presbyterian body and property, provided the Presbyterians would pledge themselves by such acceptance to give Parkvale church a new church home, to be located on the site se- lected, at northeast corner of 34th and Martha streets, consisting of three lots and one frame house, and known as the Goodland property. ‘And further, the church clerk, was authorized to place this for- mal invitation promptly in the hands of the proper person repre- senting the Presbyterian denomination and request an early reply. The motion passed and was carried unanimously. ‘Therefore, in accordance with the wishes of our people we have taken this action after careful consideration and prayer, we hereby extend the invitation to you to cooperate with us in a progressive policy for the upbuilding of this church of Christ to serve this com- munity, that the people of this section of the city may be both church-going and God-fearing, and that the children may have a suit- able place to learn the lessons of eternal life. ‘We trust you will give this matter early consideration. ‘We will be very glad to meet with your representatives to con- summate this enterprise and present conclusive reasons why this progam should be carried out. Very respectfully, Parkvale Congregational Church and Society, By W. C. Mooney, Clerk.” A further communication dated Omaha, Neb., January 4, 1912, was submitted to the Presbytery and is as follows, Rev. D. E. Jenkins, D.D., “Dear Sir:- At a called business meeting of Parkvale Con- gregational Church and Society held December 30, 1911, the fol- lowing resolution was introduced and unanimously carried: The members and congregation of the Parkvale Congregational Church, after careful consideration and prayer, believe that the int- erest of the Kingdom will be best served by their withdrawal from the Omaha Association of Congregational churches, and hereby auth- orize the church clerk to notify the Omaha Association accordingly and reqvest that they consider their connection with that body sev- ered from this date. 234 HO EeH ESO RYO RSL EE It gives us pleasure to advise that so far as Parkvale church is concerned we have taken all action necessary or possible for us to sever our connection with the Congregational body, and we hereby again extend our invitation of December 6, to your people and we trust that this matter will be brought up for early consideration. Yours respectfully, (Signed) “W. C. Mooney, Clerk.” The following action was recorded by the Presbytery of Omaha. “Resolved, That the members of the Home Mission Committee be a special committee to organize the Parkvale Congregational church into a Presbyterian church. It was further Resolved, That a committee of three consisting of Elders Henry F. Kieser, J. H. Knowles .and Rev. Julius F. Schwarz, be appointed to cooperate with the Parkvale church in securing a church property. Tt was also Resolved, That the matter of securing the amount needed fcr the Parkdale Church be referred to a joint conference of the Committee on Home Missions and Sabbath school work and the Committee on Church Erection.” Presbytery’s Committee on Home Missions and Sabbath School Work reported relative to organizing the Parkvale Congregational church into a Presbyterian church and stated that the duty had been performed by first electing and ordaining W. C. Mooney and Thomas D. Carey as Elders. Secondly by electing and installing J. M. Nor- lem and W. B. Nicks as deacons. On March 19, 1912, the Parkvale Presbyterian churrh was en- rolled. The Parkvale Presbyterian church was granted permission to relocate. Rey. Arthur E. Lehman was chosen as the first pastor and as Stated Supply was made Moderator of the session September 11, 1912. May’ 25, 1915, a call was accepted by Rev. Robert W. Taylor to become the pastor, The duration of this pastorate was up to the time when Dr. Taylor was commissioned by the Synod of Nebraska March 1, 1921, as Western Associate Secretary of Home Missions and Sabbath School Work. Rev. C. E. Russell succeeded Dr. Taylor and was Stated Supply until he accepted a call from the Presbyterian church of Bellevue, Nebraska. Rev. Paul G. Luce came on the field in 1922. Under his leader- ship the congregation has just completed a new house of worship, located at Thirty-second and Martha streets. This edifice was dedi- cated Sunday, February 24, 1924. It cost in excess of $10,000. E. M. Smith was chairman of the building committee. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 235 Fairview Presbyterian Church, Omaha, Neb. In a meeting of the Presbytery of Omaha, held September 14, 1910, a petition for the organization of a church was presented: “We desire to place before the Presbytery the needs of the Fairfax Sunday school, Fortieth and Pratt streets, Omaha, Neb., which was organized April 10, 1910, by Rev. James B. Currens. The school has an enrollment of sixty-six, with three times this number that may be gathered in. The offerings have averaged one dollar per week. The school has paid for the supplies for the ensuing quarter and has a balance of $18 in the treasury. The building we now meet in is too small for our needs. It has been freely donated for present use but must be given up to the owner before cold weather. Some donations of furniture have been received and some bought by the school. “Preaching services have been held regularly every Sabbath; conducted by various pastors of the north end of the city. We now feel the need of a permanent church organization that we may take some steps toward building a chapel and maintaining a pastor. It is quite probable that we will not be able to do this without some assistance from the Boards for some time at the start, though the community is growing rapidly This portion of the city was opened for settlement about two years ago, and covers an area of about two square miles, not reached by any other church. It is our prayer and desire that God through you may give us a permanent place of worship soon.” Sipned. by J. Ho Perry: Petition “We, whose names appear in this petition desire that the Presby- tery of Omaha shall organize a Presbyterian church at or near 40th and Pratt streets in the city of Omaha, and assist us in every way possible to secure a church building and maintain a pastor. “Therefore we have placed opposite our signatures our present standing and qualifications to enter a new organization as charter members. The petition bears twenty-two names.” The action of the Presbytery made provision for a committee of three, namely, Rev. Nathaniel McGiffin, D.D., Rev. Julius F. Schwarz, D.D., and Elder Robert Dempstér, with nower to act to effect an organization if the way be clear, and to make report at the next meeting of Presbytery. At a meeting of Presbytery, held Onenee 27, 1910, the named committee made the following report: “Your committee wish to report that after having visited the field in the vicinity of 42nd and Pratt streets, and having met at dif- ferent times with the people whose names appear on the petition ask- ing for the organization of a Presbyterian church, and finding con- 236 THESES TO R Ye hare: siderable interest manifested and publicly declaring to be organized as a church of Jesus Christ, for the glory of God and for the benefit of themselves, their children and fellow men, your committee pro- ceeded in the regular way and according to the prescribed form to effect the organization which now bears the name and is known as the Fairview Presbyterian church of Omaha. Your committee fur- ther recommend that this newly organized Fairview church be en- rolled.” The report was approved and the recommendation adopted and the name of the church was ordered enrolled. The Rev. Thomas B. Greenlee, Ph. D., was appointed moderator of the newly elected session. The Rev. Charles H. Fleming, Pastor of the church of the Cov- enant, ministered to this church in connection with the said church. Students from the Omaha Theological Seminary have supplied the pulpit. Mrs. George A. Beith is at present in charge working under the supervision of the Church Extension committee. The congregation has built a new house of worship which was dedicated Nov. 20, 1921, costing $8,000. The property is valued at $8,910. The officers of the church at present are: Elders: E. C. Harvey and W. J. Easton. Trustees: Louis Eipperle, Mrs. W. J. Easton and Gail Fay. Westminster Presbyterian Church, Omaha, Neb. (1887) The Westminster Presbyterian church of Omaha, Nebraska, was organized April 25, 1887, by a commission from the Presbytery of Omaha. The names enrolled as charter members: 1) By Letter: “Mrs. Arvilla C. Brown, Mrs. Fannie S. Chapman, Miss Nellie Fosdyke, Mrs. Mary A. Gregory, Mrs. Nellie Guild, Jacob R. Hen- drix, Mrs. C. H. Huntoon, Mrs. Elizabeth A. Meisner, Mrs. C. M. McAdam, Frank L. McCoy. Mrs. M. E. Newcomb, Wm. Randail, Miss Emma L. Newcomb, Warren Switzler, Mrs. J. W. Shields, Mrs. Florence Shields, Mrs. Sarah J. Sabin, Paul Van der Voort, Duncan M. Wilson, Joseph G. Chapman, Mrs. Isabella Campbell, Frank L. Gregory, Miss Mattie Gregory, Mrs. Mary E. Gratton, Mrs. Sarah M. Hendrix, Mrs. A. T. Holden, Miss Ada S. Meisner, Miss Hattie G. McAdam, Mrs. N. E. McBride, Miss Julia M. Newcomb, Mrs. J. J. Points, Mrs. Betsy Randall, Mrs. Mary D. Switzler, Alexander Shields, James E. Sabin. Mrs. Martha L. Salmon, Mrs. Amanda Van der Voort, Mrs. Laura Wilson.” 2. By Profession of Faith: “David S. Guild, Thomas Halket, Andrew T. McPherson, George PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN - NEBRASKA. oy | K. Smith, Mrs. G. F. Gyger, S. A. Huntoon, Mrs. Mary McPherson.” 3. The first elders chosen to constitute the session were: War- ren Switzler, Jacob R. Hendrix, Joseph G. Chapman and Wm. Ran- dall. 4. The pastors who served this church are given in their order: Rev. John Gordon, D.D., Rev. W. S. Fulton, D.D., Rev. J. F. Young, DIDS Reve ake V.. Moore DD. Rev. Phomas H. Mee arellt D.D., Rev. View ive atid): 5. The officers at the resent time are: Elders: Henry E. Maxwell, C. J. Barnett, Dr. D. W. Burns, W. H Pteiffer. E. W. Johnson, Frank “Waterman, E. E. Gray, S. C. Campbell, W. C. Bronson, R. E. Wright, Thos. Boone, C. S. Ingalls. Deacons toward sce, ).. Ge Holman, Ex7O. Carson, ‘C, A. Westerfield, E. B. Nordell, Harold H. Merryman, Wade Seitz, G. A. Robertson, C. E. Mitchell, Trustees: Frank Anderson, B. N. Robertson, Ralph Kiewit, S. O. Briggs, Wim. Randall, Jr., Geo. M. Smith, Dr. C. Rubendall, W. B. Whitehorn and J. W. Sharp. The first edifice was erected on the southwest corner of Twenty- ninth and Mason streets at a cost of $20,000. A new site was bought on the northeast corner of Thirty-third and Woolworth avenue where a beautiful edifice costing $80,000 was dedicated in October, 1923. The manse is valued at $8,000. This church has always been self-supporting and has a present membership of three hundred eighty-one communicants. For many years it conducted a mission on Grace street near the Union Pacific railroad tracks. First German Presbyterian Church of Omaha, Now Known as the Bethany Church. The First German Presbyterian church was organized in 1881 by Rev. F .H. W. Bruechert. It was during the time when people were attracted to the west in large numbers. Omaha had become the center of the great boom. The various colonies of German speaking immigrants justified the move of establishing a church home for them. During hhis brief pastorate, which lasted until March, 1883, the congregation purchased a property with a residence on it. On the adjoining lot, located on the east side of Eighteenth street, just south of Cuming street, a church edifice was built and dedicated in 1882. Rev. Bruechert was succeded by Rev. John G. Scheible in July, 1883, His pastorate continued to the time when he was honorably retired in 1892. Rev. Richard L. Friederich served the congregation for about three and one-half years and then accepted a call in 1895 from South Dakota. The Rev. Daniel Grieder, D.D., came on the 238 THESHISTORY ORGLHE First German Presbyterian Church of Omaha, now known as Bethany Church. held the following winter. Dr. Grieder labored for more than eight years and was successful in removing the mortgages that had bur- dened the congregation. The Rey. August Hilkeman who was pas- tor at Fort Calhoun, Nebraska, succeeded Rev. Grieder in 1904 and remained with the church until 1906. In 1906 a call was issued for the pastoral service of Rev. Julius F. Schwarz, who was at the time in charge of the First German church of Connersville, Indiana. Rev. Schwarz came on the field March 1, 1907, and was installed as pas- tor soon after. It was soon discovered that a change of location was essential to insure the future growth of the organization. At a reg- ularly called congregational meeting a motion prevailed that the necessary steps be taken in the matter of disposing of the property on Eighteenth and Cuming streets, and overture the Presbytery of Omaha for permission to locate in a more desirable part of the city. The following action was submitted to the Presbytery of Omaha: “Resolved, That the Trustees be authorized: “1. To obtain the permission of the Presbytery of Omaha to make the transfer of the church and lot for the stipulated amount and the conditions herein named and as decided upon by the con- egregation, “2. To obtain the permission of the Presbytery to purchase a PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 239 lot in tht territory located between 18th and 26th streets and Cuming street and Ohio avenue, or in the sections bordering on the named streets. “3. To ask for the endorsement and Presbytery’s recommenda- tion to the Board of Church Erection for the transfer of the grant invested in the edifice of the First German Presbyterian church of Omaha to the lot to be chosen and purchased by the congregation of said church.” The named resolutions were adopted by the church and approved by the Presbytery of Omaha. The congregation purchased two lots from the Omaha and Coun- cil Bluffs Street Railway Company, located on the northwest corner of Twentieth street and Willis avenue, for $1,800. The sale of the old church to a Seventh Day Adventist society, provided the cash to meet the cost of the two lots. Since the services of the two or- ganizations were on different days, the First German Presbyterian congregation continued to worship in the old edifice until they could enter the new church home. How the Church was Built. With less than a half hundred dollars in the building fund, and with the firm belief that “Faith is the Victory,’ the building project was begun in November, 1908. A sketch was drawn and plans for a joint church edifice and manse were executed by one of the leading architects of Omaha, The fact that the members numbered only sixty held out but little hope for contributions sufficient to finance the undertaking. The pastor planned to gather everywhere, wherever he could, all the old timbers and lumber generally, all the iron junk available for structural use, all the loose and irregular stone, all the generally dis- carded building materials that could be found in Omaha, It was not to be a mean and ugly house of worship, but a wel! equipped, well arranged ample meeting place for the present and future growth of the congregation. While walking along Douglas street one day it was discovered that the old curbs and parting curbs were giving place to new paving. These were bargained for. When the excavation for a full basement was completed there was sufficient building ma- terial on the ground to build the foundation. In connection with searching for material it became necessary to solicit contributions so that the pay-roll could be met each Sat- urday noon. The dollars came slowly, but they came with sufficient steadiness to meet the obligations as they had been incurred during the course of each week. When the foundation walls had reached the heights preparatory for the water table then the south steps from the old high school building were being chiseled and today occupy that place in the walls 240 HES HIS LORY SO be Gi of the stone edifice. For more than a year the repair gangs about the streets, stone yards and junk heaps were haunted in the search for material which was always discovered just at the right time for the suitable place in the building while in the course of construction. The Street Railway Company furnished the most novel use of old steel rails. They today support the heavy tile root. The frst old material in the whole building, which is the making of rafters tile roof was located at the Union Railway Station. Flat tile shingles were giving way to a modern roof tile and the tile that was being re- moved more than furnished the square feet necessary to cover the entire building of the church, The cornerstone was laid in 1909. The edifice was completed at a total cost of $25,000, and dedicated in the fall of 1910. The church, which consists of a basement, with a novel and beau- tiful fireplace, a well-equipped kitchen, an auditorium which will seat three hundred, measures 44 x 73 feet. A tower having two foot walls providing a belfry of 12 x 12 feet is also part of the edifce. The roof extends over the parsonage, making it a full three stories high, with a large attic-room. The house is 24 x 50 feet in ground dimensions and has eleven fine rooms with south front. Rev. Schwarz was chosen as Executive Secretary and District Superintendent of Home Missions by the Synod of Nebraska in October, 1912, thereby having to resign this pastorate. Rev. John F. Mueller was called to the field and duly installed as pastor on Easter Sunday, March 23, 1913. On that day the new edifice suffered considerable damage. Being in the path of the cy- clone, the greater part of the roof was demolished; the art glass win- dows were ruined and the windows of the manse blown in. Rev. Mueller set to work in gathering funds to meet the cost of repairs. The interior was also beautifully decorated at that time. Rev. John F. Mueller terminated his pastorate on the 31st of August, 1914. He was succeeded by Rev. Henry W. Seibert, Ph.D., who was installed Sunday, April 11, 1915. In connection with his pastorate Dr. Seibert was Professor of German at the University of Omaha. His pastorate continued until 1917. Rev. Albert Kuhn, who had been Professor of Greek at the University of Dubuque for fourteen years, accepted the appointment as Missionary, September, 1919. Rev. Kuhn has developed a mission station and community center, which has not its equal in the city of Omaha. Since the neighborhood is made up of a fluctuating pop- ulation it has become necessary to introduce new features in the program of this particular field and mission, which deserves both the good will and support of the Church and community, The name of the church was at this time changed to Bethany church, since the removal of the German speaking residents and the PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 2A changed needs of the community demanded a different emphasis in the work. While a service in German is still a feature of the church, the main activities of it are now conducted in English. Great stres- is placed upon making the church the gathering place of the chil- dren and the center of refined social life of the community. Rev. Kuhn is also a member of the Faculty of the University of Omaha, where he is the Professor of German. The Elders who have served on the session of this church from time to time are: Nic. Kriebs, Jacob Sellner, Konrad Lehning, Fred Kocher, C. L. Kocher, G. Ulrich, Henry Deines, Jacob Hahn and William J. Sellner. The present Elders of Bethany Presbyterian church are: William J. Sellner, Henry Deines, Fred Blaser. Roger Jenkins, Griffith Jones, A. Waybright and J. D. Phelps. Lowe Avenue Presbyterian Church, Omaha, Neb. The Lowe Avenue Presbyterian church was organized as the West Hamilton Street Presbyterian church, July 3, 1887, by a com- mittee appointed by the Presbytery of Omaha, namely, Rev. W. J. Elarshatiderse see searcine: Reyes We le. Henderson and Hider De i. Ballon. The persons enrolled as charter members are. Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Cronk, Mrs. E. L. Emery, Mr. and Mrs. Jos. K. Fleming, Charles H. Fleming, (now an ordained pastor in the Presbyterian Church.) Mrs. C. D. Hutchinson, Miss Ina Pickard, W. Ii. Scott and wife, Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Stuart, Mrs. M. M. Vanhorn, S$. W. Wilson and wife. The first Ruling Elders were J. K. Fleming, J. L. Stuart and S. W. ‘Vilson. The present church edifice was dedicated April 21, 1907, having cost $40,000. A new addition has been planned which is soon to be erected at a cost of $15,000, The number of communicants has almost reached the 450 mark. The pastors who have served this church are: Reva W. J. Palm, October 1,°1887 to January 1, 1891. Rev.-C. G. Sterling, May 1, 1891 to August 1, 1895. Rev. Fred K. Tonge, April 1, 1896 to July 1, 1897, Rev. T. S. Hawley, October 24 1897, to June 1, 1901, “Revs Stephen Phelps, D.D., October 1, 1901, to June 1, 1902, Rev. Andrew S. C. Clarke, D.D., September 1, 1902 to November 1, 1907, Rev. Nathaniel McGiffin, D.D., May 17, 1908 to May 1, 1914, Pev. A, F. Ernst, Ph.D., September 15, 1914 ---. The officers of the church at present: Elders: Dr. H. M. McClanehan, Dr. J. M. Patton, G. F. Damon, A. R. Wells, A. C. Smith, H. S. McAllister, G. B. Eisely, W. J. Mett- len, E. T. Munroe. Deacons: Robert York; S..H. Cole, P._F. Bonordon, W. V. Loughley, F. G. Brainord and Elmer Johnson. 16 242 il ee HIS. RO eC LLe Clifton Hill Presbyterian Church Omaha, Neb. The Clifton Hill Presbyterian church was organized May 22, 1892 with a charter membership of nineteen. June 13 the organization, then consisting of twenty-four members, was approved at a meet- ing of the Presbytery of Omaha. The charter members were Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wise, Mrs. Lizzie Wise Brewster, Mr. and Mrs. U. G. Traux, Mrs. Mary L. Shoemaker, Mrs. May E. Shoemaker Phillips, Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Harold, James Rattray, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Chaplin, Mrs. Thomas Johnston, Mrs. Harriet R. Gregg, Bes- sie Harris, Mrs. Nettie Rush, Mrs. Emma Taylor, Mr. and Mrs. James Bennett, Geo. F. Damon, Mr. and Mrs. Sam’! Foster and Mr. and Mrs. Geo. D. McDill. The officers elected at the time of organization were: Robert Wise as ruling elder, and Messrs. George Chaplin and Ulysses G. Traux deacons and trustee. At a congregational meeting March 1, 1893, it was voted to pur- chase a lot for $800. The church building was erected the same year and dedicated December 10, 1893. Until this time a carpenter’s shop was used as a place of worship. In 1902 the building was moved to the corner, was raised and remodeled. The present edifice was re-dedicated December 14, 1902. The first pastor was the Rev. Samuel T. Davis, M.D. He was called to the pastorate by the congregation November 13, 1892, during the first year of the church’s history. He was not installed until May 10, 1894. The following pastors succeeded him: James D. Kerr, D.D., December 17, 1895 to April 1901; Robert M. Dillon, January 2, 1902 to August 1, 1904; Robert L. Purdy, Septem- ber 21, 1905 to June 1, 1908. Thos. B. Greenlee, Ph.D., October 27, 1908 to January, 1914; B. Robert Von der Lippe, October 14, 1914--- In the twenty-five years of the church’s history, twenty-two per- sons have served in the office of ruling elder and twenty-four in the Diaconate. July 28, 1902, the Board of Trustees, consisting of J. A. Dalzell, Joseph Bremner, J. N. Beach, Roy Solomon and George Taylor, executed a mortgage on the church property for a loan of $1,500 from the O. F. Davis Fund. The loan was paid up and the mortgage re- leased December 7, 1916. The elders of the church are F. W. Booth and O. W. Hendee. The Deacons are K. G. Watson, W. Ruebsamen, J. H. Rupe. The Trustees are Alex McKie, President, Harry Elliston, Sec., K. L. Hiatt, Treas., Edw. L. Krisel, Geo. Taylor, W. S. Huston, K. S. Finlayson, Chas. S. White, Mrs R. G. Watson, Mrs. K. L. Hiatt The Deaconesses are Mrs. Julian Ellington, Mrs. Elizabeth J. Lindsay and Mrs. Lyda Bruner, PRESBY DERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA, 243 CHURCH EXTENSION WORK IN OMAHA. The Church Extension Committee of Omaha Presbytery, con- sisting of seven laymen and eight ministers, is the agency through which the Presbytery carries on its Home Mission and Church Ex- tension work. This committee meets regularly each month and gives a great deal of time to the mission innterests of the Presbytery. It receives its instructions from, and makes its reports to the Press- bytery. It has to do with the location of ministers on mission fields, establishing new mission tation, advancing the work of Evangel- ism and providing suitable buildings and equipment for missions churches and stations. At preent the committee has under its care 16 mission churches and stations. An important part of the work of this committee is the matter of providing mission churches and stations with adequate and well-equipped plants in which to carry on their work. This requires a great deal of time and labor on the part of the committee and also the devising of ways and means by which the necessary funds may be secured. The committee, under the authority of Presbytery, administers three funds: First, that which is necessary to assist in the support of mission pastors. This fund is the part of the Benevolence Budget contributed by churches to the Home Mission Board. Second, that which assists in providing the salaries of parish workers in certain selected fields in the congested and foreign sec- tions of Omaha. This is provided from the contributions of the churches to the Sunday School Board, and the gifts of tite women, of the Presbyterian City Union. Third, the funds necessary to erect, equip and repair buildings to enable them to render larger service to the communities in which they are located. This part of the committee’s work requires the largest expenditure of funds. To provide the money necessary and meet these needs the Presbytery voted that 20 percent of the amount raised for Benevolences by the churches of Omaha should be paid to and administered by the committee along this line, Some Accomplishments. Under the authority of the Presbytery some things! worth while have been accomplished. A mission work was started in the Minne Lusa addition. A chapel was purchased and lots bought on which the full basement is already being occupied by the new self-supporting organization. The Rev. Herman G. Heuser is the pastor. This church is now known as Miller Park Church, and is located at 30th and Huntington Avenue. 244 DHE eth ORY sO ler brire The following named Elders constitute the session: M. R. Galbraith, Judge L. B.. Day, Geo. Scott, Robert Galt, Ralph Beckley and Frank Neef. The colored population of Omaha during recent years has great- ly increased, and among these people there are a considerable num- ber who have received some training in our mission schools in the South and others who required a ministry which only the Pres- byterian Church could provide. In order to supply this need a prop- erty was purchased at the corner of twenty-sixth and Seward streets, and this property has been repaired at some coniderable expense A church was organized December 26, 1922, and Rev. Russell Tay- lor chosen as pastor. At present the church has an enrollment of about, fifty communicants. Drei. He Hutton s) SAS Hatdyeande ye C. Mason constitute the session. The St. Paul Presbyterian Church is the name enrolled on the records of the Presbytery of Omaha. Property Holdings. Under the requirements of the Presbytery that the title of prop- erties toward which a considerable amount has been contributed must be vested in the Presbytery, the following properties with their cost are now held by the trustees: Miller Park Chapel and site for new church —.......W:. $6,860 Bairviewechtir chy 222s eens 6 Se ee ee ee 8,910 Stereauliss CECOl ore cds) ieee ee ee et 4,200 Bathy Poorest = Chapels ee ee eee 7,591 sO tal eects eet Tein Aer ge ns Pee nee, Sy eee $27,561 Benson, Presbyterian Church. The Benson Presbyterian church was organized July 22, 1906, with twenty-six charter members. Rev. Jesse C. Wilson became the pastor immediately after the church was organized. Rev. Wilson left the field in 1912 and was then succeeded by Rev. Arthur J. Mc- Clung, D.D., who remained on the field until 1918. Rev. Earl Moneymaker accepted the call to the field in 1919, and remained until the pring of 1924. At present the pulpit is supplied by local ministers and theological students. Elder H. C. Forgy is the Clerk of the session. Dundee Presbyterian. Church, Omaha, Neb. The Dundee Presbyterian church was organized May 6, 1901, with sixteen charter members. The Rev. Joseph J. Lampe, Ph.D., D.D., first supplied this church until Rev. Thomas K. Hunter, D.D., was called to the pastorate in 1902. Dr. Hunter was succeeded by Rev. Henry Quickenden in 1907 and he was followed by Rev. Grant E. Fisher, D.D., who came on the field in 1909 and remained until PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 245 1915. He was succeeded by Rev. Harry B. Foster. In 1922 Rev. Donald C. MacLeod, D.D., was installed and is the present pastor. The first house of worship was dedicated December 15, 1901. The present edifice was dedicated July 3, 1910. The capacity already has become cramped and plans for a new church are now under way for a structure to cost $250,000. The officers of the church are: Elders: Moderator: Rev. Donald C. MacLeod; Clerk: E. H. Westerfield; Eee Be ehomase Gave airchildeiwN a Crosby, J. Be Hitzeeralds Nas). Bakcioe bee bewliomasie el ws Loc ta ba Clarke, Reece Mebarlane, DeAe Galloway. S..G. wbayloreand ) )- Dy Berryman: The Deacons are :W. C. Slabough, Vernon J. Potter, J. A. Singer, A. H. Eilsworth, John Brownlee, Floyd A. Norman, Jesse E. Billings, D. G. Elderdge and Gunner A. Nestor. The Trustees are: F. H. Bristol, R. M. Crossman, M. E. Thom- See ee Sa DDS Be Deputy ine Gm beters, haem Omiitinem tal pit Russell, J. L. Haugh, F. W. Woods, J. L. Doan, Austin Dodds, V. D. Benedict, George M. Tunison and W. C. Slabough. GREAT EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS. From the pen of Rev. E. E. Dagly comes a very exhaustive ac- count of the Omaha Theological Seminary, which has proven a telling factor in the development of the Presbyterian Church. “The greatness of men or institutions lies not in the material or visible elements, but in the inner spirit, the dominant passions, the ideals, the cumulative influence exerted throughout the years. Con- sequently we must consider the Omaha Theological Seminary cf the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A. a great institution. The charac- ter of the men graduated, her dominant missionary zeal, her loyalty to Christ and the Bible, to the Church and her standards of faith, her services rendered to the peoples of the earth—all these bestow the title of greatness upon her. “It was because of their missionary passion that forty members of the Synod of South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri and lowa came together in the First Presbyterian church in Omaha on Feb- ruary 17, 1891. Before them was a great territory with unlimited opportunities for service, but with many vacant pulpits and unor- ganized fields. What was to be done to raise up men, representatives of Christ and His church, who would fill those vacant pulpits and serve as missionaries in the virgin fields? Clearly, something must be done. The call was unmistakable. They must plan to raise up their own leaders within the territory of this greatest of Home Mis- sionary opportunities, 246 THE HISTORY@O heli “As a result of their deliberations and prayers it was decided to found a Theological Seminary in Omaha to meet the need, to develop and train men for this great work. A Board of Directors as chosen, which, in April, of that year, elected the members of the first faculty. We are not surprised the institution made a fine record from the beginning when we consider the men whose names appear in the list of those first instructors. They were: Wm. W. Harsha, D.D., LL.D., Professor of Didactic and Polemic Theology; Rev. Stephen Phelps, D.D., Professor of Ecclesiastical, Homiletical and Pastoral Theology; Rev. John Gordon, D.D., Professor of Ecclesiastical His- tory; Rev. Matthew B. Lowrie, D.D., Professor of New Testament Literature and Exegesis; Rev. Charles G. Sterling, D.D., Professor of Hebrew, and Rev. Thomas L. Sexton, D.D., Lecturer on Home Mis- sions. “The years brought their changes. None of these is with the Seminary now. Most of them have finished their work on earth, In 1899 Dr. Lowrie was elected President, serving until 1910, when Dr. Albert B. Marshall was elected President. He served with great cred- it to himself and the institution for ten years. Dr. James Marquis Wilson, then pastor of the North church, Omaha, was elected to succeed Dr. Marshall. It is worth noting in passing that Dr. Wilson was a member of the original group of founders of the Seminary, being at that time pastor of the Castellar street church, Omaha, and that he taught English Bible early in the history of the institution. “During the thirty-three years since it was founded more than two hundred men have graduated, a number of whom are now in strong city pulpits or occupying places of prominence in the church at large. Among these are Dr. W. B. Lower, Holy Trinity church, Philadelphia; Dr. J. W. Bean, Dayton Avenue church, St. Paul, Minn.; Rev. Raymond H. Rutt, Oliver church, Minneapolis, Minn.; Dr. C. A. Arnold, Grace church, Kansas City, Kans., Rev. James M. Hamilton, North church, Omaha, Neb.; Rev. John E. Spencer, Tarkio, Mo.; Dr. W. B. Lampe. West church, St. Louis, where he has added approxi- mately one hundred twenty-five to the net roll of membership during each year of his pastorate; Dr. C. W. Weyer, Tacoma, Wash.; where they are building one of the finest church edifices in the denomina- tion, and Dr. M. Willard Lampe, Chicago, Secretary of the General Board of Education. “Others have heard the call of the far lands and have gone as missionaries to the benighted peoples. Among these are: Dr. Charles H. Bandy, Fatehgarh, India; Rev. H. S. Vincent, Siam and China; Dr. H. W. Lampe, Syenchyun, Chosen; Rev. J. Y.; Crothers, An Dong, Chosen; Rev, E. M. Smith, Ningpo, China; Rev. W. V. Stinson, Hoihow, Hainan, China; Rev. Paul B. Shedd, Resht, Persia; Rev. R. J. Blue, Venezuela; Rev. Norman E. Nygaard, Baranquilla, Colombia, PRESBYTERIAN: CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. ‘de | S. A.; Rev. George H. Winn, Taiku, Chosen. Besides these, two others have completed their years of service here and have entered into rest—Rev. E. A. Enders, India, and Rev. Fred L. Lyman, Laos. “Surely the Seminary has a right to be proud of these, her sons, but she has no less reason to be proud of the more than one hundred others who have gone to less prominent fields of the Central West to fulfil the original intentions of the founders. Eight are in South Dakota, eight in Missouri, eleven in Kansas, thirty-five in Iowa and fify in Nebraska. Theirs is the sacrificial service of the true follow- ers of Christ who must often work quietly and unostentatiously at an obscure task, that the all-important command of the Head of the Church be obeyed and the gospel be preached to all men. “However much she may have accomplished in the past her glory does not rest entirely on that record. She is as loyal today to the Christian standards, to the Christ and His Church, to the Bible and the great missionary enterprise as ever. She maintains the same high standard of scholarship that has characterized her through the years of her history. “The present faculty consists of Rev. Larimore C. Denise, D.D., President; Rev. James Marquis Wilson, D.D., Vice-Pres., and Pro- fessor of English Bible, Pastoral Theology and Homiletics; Rev. Daniel E. Jenkins, D.D., Ph.D., Professor of Didactic and Polemic Theology; Rev. Charles A. Mitchell, Ph.D., D.D., Professor of New Testament Literature and Exegesis; Rev. Charles Herron, A.M., D.D., Professor of Church History and Missions; Rev. Frank H. Ridgely, A.M., Ph.D., Profesor of Hebrew, Old Testament Literature and Exegesis. Dr. Denise is a graduate of Omaha, Dr. Wilson of Mc- Cormick, Drs. Herron and Ridgely of Western and Drs. Jenkins and Mitchell of Princeton. Durine the years the Seminary has acquired a property valued at $250,000. This property consists of two whole city blocks between Twentieth and Twenty-first streets on the east and west, and Emmet and Spenced streets on the north and south. This is an excellent location, in a good section of the city some thirty-five blocks from the downtown district. The main building is a four story, brick structure. The basement provides for boiler and engine rooms, care- taker’s rooms, gymnasium and dining hall for the Students’ Board- ing Club. The main floor has the library in the south end, reading room, class rooms, professors’ rooms and chapel on the north. The upper floors are used for dormitories where the single man and the men whose homes are in other towns, may have rooms while in at- tendance upon the classes. These are large, well lighted and very comfortable rooms. The library now has more than eight thousand volumes. Gifts from individuals are constantly increasing its size and usefulness. 248 THESHESEORYs OLS It is growing in popularity with the students and the resident pas- tors of the city. The Directors of the Seminary turned in the hour of crisis to one of the sons of the Seminary and invited Dr. Larimore C. Denise of Pittsburgh to accept the Presidency. Dr. Denise is a graduate of Princeton University and of Omaha S-minary. Following his graduation he took post-graduate work in Western Seminary. He is a man of the Central West, his boyhood days having been spent in Omaha, where his father was a prominent physician and elder in the First Presbyterian church. He begins his duties with the con- fidence and prayers of those who know him. “Omaha Seminary looks out from her past through the present dithculties and insufficiencies in material things to the day when these insufficiencies shall have become things of the past, to the day when the endowment shall approximate the needs of the work in hand and the number of tudents enrolled shall approximate the wonderful op- portunities of this greatest of all home missionary territories.” The University of Omaha. The University of Omaha is an outcome of the modern edu- cational trend in the direction of establishing instiutions of higher, liberal, technical and professional training in the great centers of population. The growth of cities is the phenomenon of our modera civilization. In all countries which have progressed beyond the mere- ly agricultural stage of industrial developmert, the proportion of the total population residing in cities is steadily increasing at an astounding rate. This persistent and rapid concentration of populations entails grave economic, civic and social problems of the most crucial sort. Indeed, the problem of the city may be said to be the outstanding problem of our modern social organization. America’s greatest men- ace lies in her failure to adequately reckon with her municipal prob- lems. For this great task there must be trained efficiency and. this can be best provided only through appropriate agencies conducted in closest proximity to the problems which require to be scientifical- ly studied and treated. It is the recognition of this fact that has led to locating nowadays in cities various philanthropic institutions which formerly were thought to be rightly located only beyond the city limits. Actuated by such) considerations as the foregoing and by a sin- cere civic pride and devotion, a group of representative citizens or- ganized themselves, in the early summer of 1908, into a Board of Trustees and began the active promotion of the movement for the founding of a NON-SECTARIAN, co-educational institution of high- er liberal, professional and technical learning under such auspices as Joslyn Hall, University of Omaha, 250 THE EIS TOR Ys © heir i would conduce to the highest type of intelligent and efficient citizen- ship. This Board incorporated as the University of Omaha on Octo- ber 8, 1908, and inaugurated its educational work on September 14, 1909, with an enrollment of twenty-six students. During the last school year 968 students were enrolled. This University has steadily, year by year, extended the range of its educational work and is providing the advantages of higher liberal and practical education for hundreds of ambitious, intelligent and worthy young Omaha people, who otherwise would have been compelled to go from home to secure these advantages. The Rev. Daniel E. Jenkins, Ph.D., D.D., has been the prime mover and was chosen as the President in the very beginning of the life of this great and growing seat of learning. As President of the Institution Dr. Jenkins has been carrying more than a double burden of administrative and class room work. The Directors of the Uni- versity have authorized the President to submit a proposition to Rev. Julius F. Schwarz, D.D., to become the Executive Secretary, and thus relieve Dr. Jenkins of many of the administrative functions. (The University is located in a very attractive residential part of North Omaha. It is easily accessible from all parts of the city and its environs by way of the North Twenty-fourth street car-line, which is the principle thoroughfare of the city. The Board of Trustees is made up of some of the most influential and leading professional and business men and women: Officers ‘of the Board of Trustees: A. W. Gordon, Chairman, Wilson T. Graham, Secretary, D. W. Merrow, Treasurer. Board of Trustees. Term expiring 1926: Dr. J. H. Vance, P. W. Kuhns, A. C. Thom- sen, Park Billings, George Platner, Mrs. A. F, Jonas, George Ras- mussen, Dr. W. F. Callfas, R. A. McEachron, W. S. Robertson, Dr. Palmer Findley, Alice Ware. Term expiring 1925: Judge Howard Kennedy, M. B. Copeland, John Bekins. H. A. Myers. Mrs. George A. Joslyn, Mrs. C. V. Vin- cent, Mrs. M. O. Maul, 'W. T. Graham, H.Kieser, Robert Cowell, A. W. Gordon, A. B. Currie, J. E. Davidson. Term expiring 1924: A.A. Lamereaux, D. E. Jenkins, W. A. Gor- don, G. W. Black) DrvA. i. Jonas Dra Bas Lords Daas victLonws Dr. W. S. Gibbs; A. N- Eaton, Georse H> Paynes:@™ Vancents Dr: Sanford Gifford. The Executive Committee is made up as follows: J. E. David- son, Park Billings, A. B. Currie, A. W. Gordon, John Bekins, D. E. Jenkins, D. W. Merrow, W. T. Graham, H. A. Myers, J. H. Vance. Two beautiful and modernly equipped buildings grace the Uni- versity campus and a third building is under way at a cost of $100,000. The University is attracting a continually increasing number of Memorial Gymnasium, University of Omaha. 252 PHBE TS PO RVG © lear os non-resident students. It has done much toward making Omaha a recognized educational center. Prof. Gilbert James, M.A., Ph.D., is the Dean of the faculty, made up of a competent and intellectual personnel of instructors. The educational system of the University is being built on the assumption that the moral and religious atmosphere is not only con- ducive to the completest culture but that it is necessary to the dev- elopment of the highest type of manhood and womanhood. Con- vocation exercises are conducted daily in the chapel. These ex- ercises are opened with a reading from the Scriptures and prayer. There are two distinctively religious organizations of students, the Young Men’s Christian Association and the Young Women’s Chris- tian Association. -@ State Capitul The New State House, Lincoln, Nedraska. CONTENTS AND INDEX. CHAPTER V. BEGINNING AND GROWTH OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN LINCOLN, NEBRASKA. —=-= SS = = = — First Presbyterian Church. Name of Church Page Bins ieeresb yire tacit © L117 1a eee eae eae 2 ee eS Secords Presb yer ic tim © linc hye eee eee ee 250 ‘Third« Presbpteriany Ghitrch se 2seec ts ee 258 IWiestmiinistetamianesbiyie tenes Glatt Chien ees Ada 258 Hishlands ba tkeeres psy teiich ie ini cliieeeseeeesemee = ete eneeneeees are te 259 University, BlacesWiestoimsteta © ich cee 259 Arbor Place Presbyterian Church Od PSG sol RITE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH ORGANIZED IN LINCOLN MORE THAN FIFTY YEARS AGO. At a meeting of the Presbytery known as the Presbytery of Counci! Bluffs, held at Nebraska City, September 6, 1867, action was taken to organize a church at Lincoln, Nebraska. Lincoln was then a shanty town, surrounded by sage brush and mosquitoes. Salt creek was its chief attraction and an important factor. The Rev. J. C. Elliott and Col. Irish were appointed by the named Presbytery to organize the church today known as the First Presbyterian church of Lincoln, Nebraska. The organizing committee met with an un- favorable reception. They sought their night’s lodging by climbing a ladder into a loft where they spent the night. The next morning they came down to wash, but the wind blew so hard that they had to hold the basin with one hand while they washed with the other, and at the same time the wind blew the water out of the dish. Col. Trish remarked, “You can never make a town here, let us go home.” They could not even find one person for an organization. The Rev. Mr. Elliott returned later and found seven persons ready to be en- rolled, two men and five women. Mr. Howard Kennedy came with Rev. Elliott the second time and afterward became an elder of the church. It is believed that Mr. Kennedy’s son, Judge Howard Ken- nedy of Omaha, was the first Presbyterian baby born in Lincoln. The church was formally organized April 4, 1869. The sermon at the organization service was preached by Rev. Elliott from the text, Isaiah 42: 3. Rev. Harlan P. Peck, who was a classmate and intimate friend of Dr. John H. Carpenter, stopped with Dr. Carpenter in Wisconsin enroute to Helena, Montana, with a view of becoming a missionary in the last named state. In his letter to Dr. Carpenter he stated, “I never reached Helena, but was switched off to a new town in Nebras- ka, called Lincoln.” He became the first pastor of the First Pres- byterian church of Lincoln. The first persons to unite with the church by letter were: W. J. Turner, John N. T. Jones, Mrs. E. L: Jones, Cyrus H. Street, Chas. McManen, Samuel Alexander, John Morrison, James Eckerman, Dr. L. H. Robbins, Mrs. M,. A. Robbins, W. A. Kellogg. The first person received on profession of faith was B. M. Brake and the first death among the members was that of A. M. McCandless, one of the charter members. The congregation first worshiped in a small white frame build- ing on the block which is now included between P and Q and Ninth 256 CH Ee EES OlcvoO Beier and Tenth streets. There were ten charter members. In 1869 Lin- coln had nine hundred inhabitants. It was not until January, 1870 that the church secured the regular services of a minister. The Rev. H. P. Peck began his labors January 17, of that year and was in- stalled on the last Tuesday of April, 1871. The church at this time held its services in a hall in the second story of building which stood on a lot now occupied by the First National Bank. The first church edifice was erected near the corner of 11th and J. streets, (it is still standing) on lots donated by the state and was dedicated to the worship of Almighty God October 9, 1870. The Rev. T. H. Cleland, D.D., then of Council Bluffs, lowa, preached the ser- mon. The first sanctuary was built at a cost of $5,000 and with var- ious improvements from time to time continued to be the house of worship until December, 1884. Ground was broken for the erection of the present church edi- fice in April, 1884. Its lecture room was completed in September, 1885, and was occupied as a place of worship until the middle of January, 1886, when the main auditorium was finished and immediate- ly set apart to its sacred uses. The church was built at a cost of $40,000 and dedicated to the worship of God January 18, 1886. The Rev. A. V. V. Raymond, D.D., preached the sermon. This edifice, located at Thirteenth and M streets, while adequate for its day has long since been insufficient for numerous activities of the present as well as the increased attendance and numerical growth in meim- berhip. In 1923 the church purchased a manse at a cost of $18,000, located at 2624 Washington street. The following ministers have served the church as either pastor or stated supply: Rev. Harlan P. Peck from January 1870 to June 1874; Rev. J. H. Ellis, April 1875 to March, 1876; Rev. S. H. Weller, D.D., April 1876 to July 1878; Rev. James Kemloy, January 1879 to December 1879; Rev. J. O. Gordon, July 1880 to November 1882; Rev. E. H. Curtis, D.D., January 1883 to June 1895; Rev. W. M. Hindman, D.D., Decem- ber 1896 to March 1902; Rev. H. C. Swearingen, D.D., LL.D., De- cember 1902 to December 1906; Rev. W. W. Lawrence, D.D., April 1908 ‘to December 1912; Rev. Leon: D> Young, DiDee lease. tember 1914 to November 1920, The present pastor, Rev. Beu- jamin Marklet Nyce, D.D., was installed in January, 1921. The following ruling elders constitute the present session: F. L. Everts, Clerk; W. S. Adams, H. F. Hovland, Dr. H. W. Hewitt. W. J. Hemphill, J. L. Kizer, A. A. Reed, George O. Smith, Dr: M. E. Vance, Roy. H. Watford, F. E. Wolfe and H. C. Young. The session reports 850 resident members, and 220 non-resident; PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 251 300 affiliated members, students attending the State University. The church has an annual budget of approximately $26,000. It has a Board of Trustees of twelve members: Dr. E. J. Angle, George J. Adams, C. W. Branch, I .G. Chapin, Miss Rose Carson, Donalda4~ Chaping Ee Jo Faulkner, Fo) M: Hall, W. T. Irons, J, 5 LeRossgnol, Mrs. W. W. Whitfield and Mrs. J. W. Winger. The Rev. Hugh Taylor, D.D., represents this church on the foreign field, at Nan, Siam. Walter S. Adams is treasurer of the church, Miss Margaret C. Welton, secretary, Miss Louise McWhinnie is treasurer’s assistant. inemushercearean elem onipes mm © mGiacpitlcem |e: ou VVOOdSHeleasEy Rolfe, E. G. Funke, Dr. J. J. Davis, Frank Watson, Lee Solomon. The choir is composed of: Miss Lucille Cline, Soprano, Mrs. F. O. Schlegel, Contralto, Homer K. Compton, Tenor, Hermanus Baer, Bass, and Mrs. Edith B. Ross, Organist and Director. The Second Presbyterian Church. This church was organized October 1888. A few met in East Lincoln and organized a Bible school with about seventy members. This school was on Q street. Two lots were bought on Twenty- sixth and P streets after they had used a store building for a time on Twenty-seventh and J streets. On March 13, 1889, the church was regularly organized. There were thirty-five charter members. The Rev Charles E. Bradt, D.D., (who has since died,) was the pastor. Dr Bradt was succeeded by Rev. H. N. Dunning of Pawnee City, who was called to this pastorate in August, 1896, leaving in 1898. Rev. Dr. B. M. Long was then called and began his work in August, 1899. June 8, 1902 the church edifice was destroyed by fire. Services were held in a hall for a year, on the corner of Twenty-fourth and O streets and one year in a temporary tabernacle on Twenty-seventh street between O and P streets. The new church was then com- pleted. Dr. Long’s pastorate closed December 31, 1914. Rev. J. P. Anderson was, then called and accepted the pastorate January 20, 1915. His pastorate closed April 28, 1918. The present pastor, Rev. S. S. Hilscher was called to the pulpit in 1919. Today this church reports a membership of 711 communicants. The foreign pastor, Rev. Howard Campbell, D.D., Chieng Mai, Northern Siam. The session: Rev. Solomon S. Hilscher, moderator; Titus Davis, lege Vel, Mastetrday. ). A. sett oH. oP) sVanSickle” Prof, P)K, Slaymaker, F. C. Harrington, George Cultra, M. H. Wittstruck and William J. Nicholson. The trustees: Fred W. Hall, Pres., Ira Baker, Vice-Pres., Carl Wicbusch, Secretary; W. J. Edwards, Leon W. Chase, J. M. Jones, Delmer Stover, S. L. Kier, M. O.-Trester. 258 THE HISTORY. OF CHE Third Presbyterian Church. On May 16, 1890, at Warn’s Chapel on Wood street, the Third Presbyterian church was organized, J. W. McMillan and C. S. Cla- son were elected elders and Rev. C. G. A. Hullhorst was chosen as the first pastor. A chapel was constructed and work begun on the corner of Eleventh and Plum strects. In 1894 this chapel was en- larged. The Third church is not now in existence; it was disbanded in 1910. The church property was sold to the St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran church. The Westminster Church. The Westminster church began as a Sunday school under the care of the Second church in 1892. Its first meeting place was in a vacant building on the corner of twenty-eighth and E streets. Later the congregation met in a building on Twenty-seventh and Randolph streets. Then a chapel was erected on the corner of Twenty-fourth and A streets. It was then called the “South Side Mission,” and later “Pleasant Hill Church.” On the twelfth of February, 1905, a church organization was called the “Westminster Presbyterian church.” Forty-one charter members were enrolled. Rev. R. M. Stevenson, D.D., was installed as pastor May 9, 1905, but resigned October 15, 1905, to become president of the Westminster college at Salt Lake. November 19, 1905, Rev. Ralph H. Housman was called and accepted. In November 1907, the present church edifice, corner of Twenty-third and Garfield streets, was dedicated. Rev. Housman resigned in December, 1907. For six months Dr. Carpenter and Rev. Byrom Beall supplied the pulpit. Rev. H. V. Comin, D.D., began his labors in July, 1908. The church was vacant for a number of months when Rey. Rudolph W. Caughy became pastor and remained seven years. The Rev. W. W. Lawrence, D.D., was the next to suc- ceed and served two years, when he was called to his higher reward. The present pastor is the Rev. Paul C. Johnston. The church today has an enrollment of three hundred members. The Drector of Christian Education is Miss Ruth J Easterday. The sesson: R. D. Latsch (1925,) O. A. Andrews (1925,) Dr. F. B. Johnson (1925,) Dr. R. A. Lyman (1926) Oswald R. Black (1926,) W. EE. Bell ¢1926,) C.F. Bukey (1927,) Byron E. Yoder (1927)ei- B. Robinson (1927.) The trustees: Dr. F. W. Webster, Chairman (1926,) F. L. Hardy (1925,) W. C. Steffensmeyer (1925,) L. R. Freadrich (1925;)) RoeD: Kile (1926,) M. T. Caster (1926,) Dr. F. M. Andrus (1927,) William Grant (1927,) J. R. Dougan (1927.) C. tL. Morrison is the treasurer of the church. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN NEBRASKA. 259 The Westminster Presbyterian Church of University Place. This church had its commencement in 1907. In Tanuary of that year Rev. Thompson of the United Presbyterian church of Lincoln, came to University Place and preached a sermon in Beebe’s Hall. After preaching for several Sundays the question of organizing a church was brought up, but was not favored owing to the fact that there were not enough people of the Presbyterian faith to justify it. The Rev. B. M. Long, D.D., of Lincoln Second church, came to Uni- versity place and held services in the afternoons in the nanied hall for several months, On April 21, an organization was perfected with thirty-six charter members. December first, 1907, Rev. J. E. Weir was secured as the first regular pastor. Rev. Alexander Keener came next. He was succeeded in 1917 by Rev. James B. Brown, who resigned the pastorate in January 1924 to become Field Secretary for the Hastings college. Rev. Alexander Wimberly was called and is the present pastor. In 1910 a modern equipped church edifice was erected at a cost of $10,000. The church has a modern eight room manse. The session: C. R. Brown, R. S. Arnold, G. H. Graham. E. M. Longstreth, J. F. Flood. J. B. Stockman is clerk of the session. The Board of Trustees: W. A. Stemple, Pres, S. A. Cornell, Treas., A. B. Butler, J. M. Little, W. M. Stoner, Grant Henderson, Ben R. Hitch and Wayne F. Gibbs. Highland Park Church. The Highland Park Church was organized into a church and enrolled in 1919. The Rev. Ralph W. Orr was the first pastor instal- led and was succeeded by Rev. Aaron S. Hutcheson in 1922. The present pastor is Rev. Hutcheson. With this pastorate is grouped the Arbor Presbyterian church, Elder C. N. Gostin is the clerk of the session of the last named church. His address is R.F.D. 5. Lin- coln, Nebraska. Herman Hammerman, R. 6, is the clerk of the Highland Park Presbyterian church session. INDEX — FE TOTES PLE CO Mas. ecda eaten cate cag pce eh ng eee rere ie John Calvin WS eM Ko cs eee te PU re Rane a ee PE ee OR Se te tN tte echoanece 5 Chapter I) Presbyterianismm Explained sg een ee "4 Chapter II, The Beginning of the Organized Life and the Development of the Presbyterian Church -..-. WW 29 Duties of ; Members) isco noes tapevce ee o eneee 119 Some-Principles:ot Presbyterian Gover mim emte ee reese eee 119 GoldenwAnniversatyaey Ct eta 1S gare eeere teense erent ee 120 Poem, “At Church Next: Sunday. cece tee 131 Chapters LINGoldentAnniversary. Ghurchesys == t33 Eo emigre hee dealie Mitts te tes nv Vil teen eee eee ee eee rae 211 Chapter IV, A Half-Century of Presbyterianism in Omaha ............ 212 lilitistration, staves Capitol oincol nee Nie@bias cases sae 253 Chapter V, Beginning and Growth of the Presbyterian Church an “Lancoln, Nebraska. dese. eee eee eee 254 Nineteen Twenty-Four Statistics of the Synod of Nebraska ............ 261 STATISTICS OF.. 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