Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2011 with funding from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign http://www.archive.org/details/excerptsfromrecoOOmull aiv.of HI. Library '3.77366 •17 e A /■GO A Brief History of Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church Champaign, Illinois May, 1951 IlllNOiS HISTORICAL SURVEY Excerpts from Records and Recollections of the Early Members Together With Facts of the Present Day Concerning Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church 1870 "1951 Prepared by: Mr. A. D. Mulliken Mrs. George Huff Miss Nina Gresham Assisted by: Members of the Committee for the Anniversary of May 6, 1951 Dr. E. G. Stevens Col. Selwyn D. Smith Mrs. D. S. Noel Mrs. P. F. Tomaras Mrs. A. G. Tuxhorn Prof. A. R. Knight Mr. A. D. Scott Dr. William F. Johnston Contents Preface 3 The Early Mission Church; The Organization of Our Parish; The Rectors of Our Parish 3 Incorporation of the Parish; The First Church Building; The Present Church Planned 5 Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church 8 Early Memorials and Gifts 1 1 Our Chapel 12 Bishops of The Diocese 1 3 Social Events in Connection with The Early Parish and Later 14 Spiritual Aspects of Emmanuel 15 Young People in Emmanuel 18 Emmanuel's Endowment Fund 18 Later Gifts and Memorials 19 Financial Growth As Shown in Our Benevolences 22 A List of Our Parishioners of 1900 and Before 23 Significant Dates in Brief 24 An ma Preface ^ ^ r ^ A history of any church is limited by the amount of authentic information which can be produced. Available records show that the early days of Emmanuel were not without their hardships, discouragements, and dissensions; there was always present, however, in our early mem- bers the determination to succeed, to achieve the erection of a church worthy of their cause, and, above all, to honor God in a deeply spiritual man- ner. On the following pages the committee for this anniversary date in our progress as a church has attempted to place in brief form a record of the efforts of our early leaders to establish in a firm manner the parish and church which have grown into that which we are proud to claim today as Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church of Champaign, Illinois. The Early Mission Church; the Organization of Our Parish; the Rectors of our Church. HThe following record of the early meetings and leaders A of the Episcopal Church members in Champaign is large- ly taken from notes by Dr. Charles P. Howard, Mrs. Thomas Naughton, and Mrs. J. W. Porter. 1. Near the beginning of the Civil War the town was visited by the Rev. John Wesley Osborne, diocesan mission- ary. Services were probably held, although there is no record of the same. 2. In December, 1870, the Rev. Albert E. Wells, a mis- sionary of the diocese of Illinois, came to Champaign, where the congregation met in Bailey's Hall on Neil Street. The Rev. Mr. Wells left on November 30, 1871, but the congre- gation renewed its efforts for having a church. 3 3. Appointment was made about June 1, 1877, of the Rev. Daniel F. Smith as missionary. In the little brick school- house, Randolph and Hill Streets, the congregation wor- shipped for over five years. The Rev. Mr. Smith left about August 1, 1878. The confirmation records show the first visit of the Rt. Rev. George F. Seymour to be on July 31, 1878. 4. The Rev. Wm. C. Hopkins accepted charge of the mission, September 1, 1878. He resigned to go to Toledo, Ohio, June, 1882. 5. On July 1, 18 82, the Rev. Jesse Higgins and the Rev. Arthur Q. Davis became associate priests of the mission, but they relinquished official connection the following Decem- ber. 6. The Rev. David W. Dresser of Carlinville conducted his first services for the Champaign congregation on De- cember 10, 18 82 — the second Sunday in Advent. Emmanuel Church was formally opened for divine service on February 4, 1883. 7. Dr. Dresser, who was greatly beloved by all who knew him, died November 18, 1900. The church was still a mission. After his death services were held, but out of deep respect for their beloved rector, the members made no attempt for over a year to secure his successor. 8. At the annual meeting in December, 1900, the congre- gation voted to become a parish. Action was deferred until 1901. 9. In February, 1901, Dr. James E. Wilkinson was sent to Emmanuel by Bishop Seymour. Because of ill health he resigned April 30, 1906. 10. The Rev. Harry T. Moore of Grace Church, Chicago, took charge in September, 1906. He resigned in March, 1907, to go to Dallas, Texas, and later became the bishop of that diocese. 11. In April, 1907, the Rev. L. S. Shermer came. At this time we find our first mention of work with the University of Illinois students. Due to the ill-health of his wife, the rector resigned August 3, 1910. 12. On October 27, 1910, a formal call was extended to the Rev. George P. Hoster of Decatur. He declined. 13. A call was extended, November 20, 1910, to the Rev. H. C. Goodman who accepted and took charge immediately. On June 12, 1914, his resignation was presented and accepted to take effect August 1. 14. On June 25, 1914, Dr. Hoster was again called. He accepted July 24, 1914, and arrived September 2 to begin his duties September 6. He resigned December, 1925. He moved with his invalid wife to Rantoul. Later, after her death, he returned to Champaign where he died October 8, 1939. 15. The Rev. Herbert L. Miller, our present rector, came to Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church, on May 1, 1926, from Lake City Minnesota. The ceremony of institution was on Sunday, May 9, 1926, with Bishop White of Springfield officiating. Incorporation of the Parish ; the First Church Build- ing; the Present Church Planned. 1. The idea of having a church building had been agitated for some time and took definite form about 1882 due largely to the zeal of the Rev. Wm. C. Hopkins and others. 2. The congregation was incorporated as Emmanuel Protestant Episcopal Church of Champaign on June 12, 1882, in accordance with the laws of the State of Illinois. The signers were: William A. Day; J. Y. Stevens; W. A. Hennig. 3. Plans for the first church building were adopted by the building committee on July 5, 1882; the contract was signed July 24, 1882. Emmanuel Church was in course of construction during the summer and autumn. Seely Brown was the architect; Jesse Fleming, contractor. 4. In a fitting manner the church was formally opened for service on Quinquagesima Sunday, February 4, 1883. There was no debt on the church which was solemnly con- secrated, Thursday, April 5, 1883, by the Rt. Rev. George Franklin Seymour, Bishop of Springfield, assisted by four- teen priests. The instrument of donation was read by the priest in charge, the sentence of consecration by the Rev. F. W. Taylor acting as bishop's chaplain. By special request the 5 sermon was preached by the Rev. William C. Hopkins of Toledo, Ohio, formerly in charge of the mission. The bishop was assisted in administering the Holy Communion by sev- eral of the priests. The offering was devoted to the payment for the pews which were in the course of construction. Chairs were used for the services. The bishop and clergy were entertained at luncheon by the ladies of the Mission. Evening prayer was held in the church at 7:30 P. M. 5. Later there were many additions to the furnishings and equipment of the church. In 1889 a pipe organ was added. It was first used on Christmas Day, 1889. 6. Next, a rectory at 203 West Clark Street, was provid- ed at a cost of $1,400. It was first occupied by Dr. and Mrs. Dresser, July 1, 18 86. 7. In February, 1889, occurred the death of Mrs. Julia A. Niles, causing an irreparable loss to the church as Mrs. Niles had worked diligently for the success of the early parish efforts. The brass cross on the high altar was given by Col. E. P. Niles, Marion, and Eunice Niles in memory of their wife and mother. 8. Some of the early gifts to our Church include the fol- lowing: The Eucharistic veil by Mrs. D. W. Dresser. The books for the desk and altar by Mr. and Mrs. George W. Squires. The litany desk by Dr. Charles P. Howard. The brass book rest by Mrs. H. C. Kariher in memory of her husband. The beautiful altar and reredos that now adorn the chancel by Mrs. J. L. Polk in memory of her brother-in-law, James Cicero Justice. The baptismal font was given in memory of Charlotte Hopkins, daughter of the rector, the Rev. Wm. C. Hopkins. Two windows now in the sacristy were also gifts to the early church. 9. In 1892 the first vested choir of men and boys was organized. Miss Louise Roberts was organist. Before this time, Mr. Thos. Franks, Mr. J. W. Mulliken, Mrs. Dresser, Mrs. 6 P. W. Woody, Mr. John N. Crannell, and others had served faithfully to furnish music for the congregation. 10. In the summer of 1894, to provide room for the growing Sunday School and other church activities, the guild room was added at a cost of $1,200. Electric lights were prob- ably installed at this time. Previously, oil lamps placed in iron brackets on the wall were the means of providing light. THE EMMANUEL EPISCOPAL CHURCH 1 1. The church was heated by a heavy stove placed in the basement under a large register in the floor — a pipeless fur- nace, ac it were. There was always danger of fire, and the choir, in procession, often caused amusement as they passed over this register with robes "ballooned" from the heat. 12. In June, 1898, the congregation decided to enlarge the church. This was done during the summer at a cost of about $2,000. An outside vestibule approached by two sets of stairs was added. The old robing room was definitely in- adequate in size. When Bishop Seymour, a huge man, would prepare for the service, the choir moved to the outdoors. 13. In 1902, through the generosity of Dr. C. P. Howard, a more modern rectory at 401 South State Street was provid- ed. 14. Up to 1904 there had been no candles on the altar. Previous to this time, a parishioner had presented two branch- ed candelabra in memory of her parents, the latter of whom had died in 1897. This gift was withdrawn after several fam- ilies objected to their use. Those candelabra now grace the altar of Epiphany Church in Seattle. 15. On February 23, 1910, fire was discovered behind the altar. A portion of the roof was burned and some of the furnishings damaged. The total loss was about $500. During the time of repairs, services were held in the University Chapel of the old Main Hall. 16. The plan which resulted in our present church of 1951 was given to the vestry in October, 1916. The terms of that generous proposal are given under the heading of "Em- manuel Memorial Episcopal Church." 17. The last service in the old church was on Sunday evening, May 20, 1917. The building was deconsecrated by Dr. Hoster, acting for the bishop. 18. Demolition of the old church was apparently started May 21, 1917. 19. During the process of construction of the present church, services were held on the second floor of the Cham- paign Public Library. 20. On June 7, 1917, the cornerstone was opened in the presence of the rector, Dr. Hoster, William Styan, R. D. Burnham, and Dr. C. P. Howard. Inside was found a copy of the Champaign Gazette dated August 9, 1882, a crucifix, a prayer book belonging to Katherine Naughton, the present Mrs. George Huff. Other documents were watersoaked and could not be deciphered. Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church Tn august, 1916, occurred, by accident, the death of one of A the members of our vestry, John Luther Polk, Jr. At the October, 1916, meeting of the vestry, Dr. Hoster, acting on behalf of Dr. and Mrs. J. L. Polk, presented the following: "Dr. and Mrs. Polk will build a church costing not less than $25,000 or more than $30,000, to be a memorial to their sons, John Luther, Robert Collins, and Cicero Justice Polk, requesting that the name be changed to read 'Emmanuel Me- morial Church'. " The vestry of Emmanuel Episcopal Church accepted with sincere gratefulness the wonderful and generous offer of Dr. and Mrs. Polk to erect the new church as a memorial to their three sons. In the late 90's Robert Collins Polk had died from diphtheria and Cicero Justice Polk had died later in Texas from tuberculosis. By many it was considered a real achievement that the church was to be designed by the famous architect, Ralph THE EMMANUEL MEMORIAL EPISCOPAL CHURCH Adams Cram, of the firm Cram and Ferguson, church archi- tects of Boston, Massachusetts. The supervising architects were George E. Ramey and Charles L. Gustafson. On May 1, 1917, the contract was signed with A. W. Stoolman of Champaign for the erection of the church, parish house and rectory. The estimated cost was to be $50,000, the parish to provide for the difference in cost. The building committee was composed of R. D. Burnham, Dr. and Mrs. John L. Polk, Mrs. George A. Huff, Mrs. G. W. Cushman, Dan G. Swannell, Dr. C. P. Howard, and C. L. Gustafson. On Wednesday, June 20, 1917, work was started on the new structure. The cornerstone was laid with appropriate ceremonies on Tuesday, October 25, 1917, at two-thirty 9 P.M., by the Rt. Rev. Granville H. Sherwood, Bishop of the Diocese, assisted by Dr. Hoster and by the Rev. John Mitchell Page, then chaplain for the University of Illinois Episcopal students. The new church was consecrated at ten o'clock on the morning of June 26, 1918, by the Rt. Rev. Granville H. Sher- wood, assisted by the Rev. J. G. Wright, the Venerable John C. White, the Rev. Messrs. William Baker, W. H. Tomlins, F. J. Compson, and J. M. Parker. The sermon was preached by the Rev. G. P. Hoster. A full account of all the ceremonies attendant upon the consecration of the new church together with a list of the gifts and memorials was printed in the local newspapers of June 26, 1918. This beautiful church, given in memory of the three sons of Dr. and Mrs. Polk, and considered by many to be an archi- tectural gem, was now to be known as "Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church/' The chandelier, together with the cross, which until re- cently hung above the crossing in the church, was the gift from Mrs. J. L. Polk in memory of her sister, Miss Lavinia Blackwell. Over the main entrance to the church is a large memorial window the frame work of which is carved stone. Delicate columns of stone divide the window into three panels. This window is the work of an artist and beautiful in design. Each character in the three panels represents one of the three sons of Dr. and Mrs. Polk. The story had been carefully devised as Mrs. Polk felt it exemplified the lives of her sons. The panel to the south shows the figure of St. Luke who is known as the scholar of the evangelists. In this figure the designer wished to express the thought of intellect and re- finement, the dominant qualities of the mind over a not ro- bust body. The middle panel contains the name of the youthful David — loving and being loved by others. This character was chosen for this panel because David, while yet young in years, achieved much. This figure, in attitude, is intended to convey the impression of strength and victory — of triumph even over death . The panel on the north is devoted to the figure of St. John 10 — the name meaning "the gift of God." He was the youngest of the apostles and called the Beloved. In his face the artist has shown the beautiful elements of St. John's character and clothed him in a robe of crimson. In his right hand he carries a book; in his fingers he holds a pen designating him as the author of the scriptures credited to him. The left arm rests over the heart, and in the hand is the chalice. Above the cup is a dead pelican symbolic of the blood which is shed that the church may spiritually be fed. Two of the small spaces above the figures are filled with designs from the vision of Ezekiel. Over St. Luke is the horned ox, and over St. John is the horned eagle. Above the figure of David is the harp on which he played to solace the troubled soul of Saul. On the north wall of the nave, below the organ pipes, is a bronze tablet, majectic in its simplicity, and placed there, To the glory of God, and in memory of Cicero Justice Polk Robert Collins Polk John Luther Polk Beside it is the bronze plaque given by the Polk estate in honor of Dr. John Luther Polk and Mrs. Cora Justice Polk. Memorial plaques on the south wall were given by Dr. El- liott G. Stevens in memory of Margaret Elwell Stevens, and by Mrs. R. D. Burnham in memory of Robert Davison Burn- ham. A memorial in the new church to the honor of Dr. and Mrs. Dresser is the beautiful window over the altar, "The Presenta- tion of Christ in the Temple." It is rich in the story it tells — that of the aged St. Simeon who gratefully takes the Babe in his arms, blesses God, and expresses his feelings in the familiar words of the inspiring Nunc Dimittis beginning, "Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace according to Thy word." Early Memorials and Gifts In the newspaper accounts of the consecration of the new memorial church we have the following list of gifts and me- morials: 1. Chapel altar from Mesdames J. F. Lachenmyer and W. A. Lachenmeyer, and Mrs. Thos. Babb in memory of their father and husband. 11 2. Pulpit from Mrs. M. W. Busey, in memory of her moth- er, Mrs. Richards. 3. Lectern from Mrs. John Babb in memory of her husband. 4. Chancel front from the Deakin family in memory of their husband and father. 5. Litany and prayer desks from the Thursday Afternoon Club. 6. Credence table from Lawrence Monier in memory of his father. 7. Communion rail from Harry and Charles Picknell in memory of their parents. 8. Sanctuary door from Mrs. E. J. Taylor in memory of her mother. 9. Chapel communion rail from Dan Morrissey, Jr. 10. Chapel altar candle sticks from Mr. Wilcox's Sunday School Class. 11. High altar Eucharistic candle sticks from the Elwell and Stevens families in memory of Josephine H. Elwell. 12. Alms basins, holder, receiver, rest, and bracket from Mrs. S. O. Andros in memory of her father. 13. Pew fronts for church and chapel from the Sunday School, R. D. Burnham, and William Styan. 14. Vases and frontal for church altar from Miss Louise Roberts in memory of her father and mother. 15. Linen cloth for chapel altar from the Misses Florence Jervis, Helen Dodge, and Bernice Fielding. 1 6. Chapel altar cross from Mrs. A. Thornhill, Mrs. S. Leach, and Mrs. A. Pickens in memory of their mother and father. 17. Silver Communion Set, three pieces, in memory of Mar- garet Ann Blackwell, by Cora Justice Polk. Our Chapel The chapel in Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church is particularly beautiful both in sentiment and in reality because it not only is a memorial chapel to the honor of Dr. and Mrs. John L. Polk, but it represents what in many larger churches is the Lady Chapel. The sacredness of the Reserved Sacrament sets our chapel aside as a spot for quiet meditation and prayer. It is architecturally correct. The finely carved reredos in the chapel was designed especially as a frame for the beautiful "Madonna of the Harpies" which at one time 12 hung over the north door in the nave. Symbolic of our Lord is the carving on the front panel of the altar — the grape vine centered by the I H S. On the door of the tabernacle one sees the Agnus Dei with the banner of victory above the Bible and the seven seals. Within the tabernacle is the ciborium given by Mrs. Walter B. Riley. The Sanctus bell was also her gift. Frontals for the chapel altar were gifts from Mrs. Riley and Mrs. Blanche Black King. The light which indicates the Sacrament in Reserve was a gift of Mrs. Josephine Porter in honor of her son, Edward. To the right of the altar is the credence table given by the children of the late Prof, and Mrs. D. K. Dodge as a memorial to their parents. On the south and west walls are two small but valuable pictures — the "Madonna of the Chair" and "Ecce Homo" — both a part of the Dr. Polk collection. The two angel-head windows in the chapel sanctuary are both memorials — the south one in honor of Wm. J. and Nettie Millard; the north one honoring Mrs. Marcia M. Magee. The windows on the south wall, starting the sequence in the life of our Saviour, represent the Annunciation and the Birth of Jesus. These two windows, together with the tiny window just above them, are memorials to Dr. and Mrs. George P. Hoster and their infant child. On the west wall of the chapel are two memorial windows, the one to the south having been given by Prof, and Mrs. Hor- ace Macintire. The one to the north was presented by Father Miller and Mrs. Laura Wendt in honor of their sister, Miss Helen L. Miller. These windows depict, respectively, the Epi- phany and the Christ Child in the Temple. The seats in our chapel are a gift of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Ramey. As a further proof of the architectural beauty and correctness of our church and chapel, we may note with pride the Corinthian pillar which supports the vaulted roof between the nave and the chapel. Bishops of the Diocese Cupervision of the mission church in this community by ^ the episcopacy was probably started about the first of the Civil War when the town was visited by the Rev. John Wesley Osborne of Chicago. As diocesan missionary he seems to have had jurisdiction along the Illinois Central Railroad from Chi- 13 cago to Cairo. In 1877 the state of Illinois was divided into three dioceses — Chicago, Quincy, and Springfield. In 1878, the Rev. George F. Seymour was consecrated as the first bishop of Springfield. Bishop Seymour was present at the con- secration of Emmanuel Church April 5, 1883. In addi- tion to his diocesan duties, Bishop Seymour served as a lecturer on religion at the University of Chicago. Bishop Seymour died in 1906. He was succeeded in 1906 by Edward William Osborne, a monk. The latter had been coadjutor to Bishop Seymour in 1904. Bishop Osborne resigned the bis- hopric in 1916 and died in 1926. Our third bishop was Gran- ville H. Sherwood who was consecrated in 1917 and died No- vember 22, 1923. The Rt. Rev. Granville H. Sherwood as- sisted in the consecration of the new memorial church, June 26, 1918. He had previously, on October 25, 1917, laid the cornerstone for the same. John Chandler White was consecrated to the episcopacy May 14, 1924, and continued until his resignation in 1947. He was succeeded by Richard Tuttle Loring who was conse- crated October 18, 1947, and died on April 16 of the follow- ing year. Our present bishop — sixth in the diocese of Spring- field — is Charles Asa Clough consecrated September 21, 1948. Social Events in Connection with the Early Parish and Later HThe early Episcopal Church of Champaign was not with- A out its social side, and the faithful women of the parish often managed to combine the most delightful of social gath- erings with money-making schemes which were both clever and profitable. The large hall on the third floor of the old Illinois Building, at the corner of Neil and Park Streets, was often the scene, just before Christmas, of a gala supper. The public was invited, and they were happy to participate. In connection with these suppers was the Christmas bazaar. This hall was particularly well known for its splendid dance floor; after the supper, tables were therefore cleared away and the group was free to dance. The same type of supper and dance was also held in Im- perial Hall at the Corner of Walnut and Taylor Streets. On Shrove Tuesdays pancake socials were enjoyed at the homes of various parishioners. Anyone who wished might at- 14 tend, and for twenty-five cents eat all the pancakes he wished. Reports from our older members indicate that tricks were often played upon those present — perhaps in a pre- Lenten mood. The young boys of the choir were taken on picnics and camping trips, largely through the efforts of Mr. Thomas Barker, Sr., thus preparing the way for the church camps of today. Through many a sociable and money-making project, members of the early church were drawn close together in a cooperative desire to maintain the spiritual and financial standing of their parish. In 1928 at the Champaign Country Club was held the fif- tieth Anniversary Banquet of Emmanuel Church. Mrs. John Luther Polk was toast-mistress for the occasion, and addresses were given by Dr. George P. Hoster, the Rev. Herbert L. Miller, and the Rev. Howard E. Ganster. The blessing was pronounced by the Rt. Rev. John Chandler White. In recognition of ten years of service by Father Miller in the Champaign parish, a dinner was held on April 30, 1936, at the Urbana Country Club. He was presented with a purse of money together with an illumined parchment written by Dr. L. T. Gregory and signed by the vestry attesting to the praise and appreciation of their rector. That parchment is framed and now hangs in the rectory. And in May, 1951, with services in our church, and by rec- ognition of the parish and community, we are observing the twenty-five years that Father Miller has been rector of Em- manuel Memorial Church. Spiritual Aspects of Emmanuel Cpiritual values cannot be measured; influence cannot ^ be judged. In some mystical manner, however, we of Em- manuel Memorial Church definitely sense the spiritual fabric of our church, and we ever hope that the influence of our lives and daily actions may be positive and far reaching. In 1925 there were four baptisms; in 1950, there were forty-four. We have seen our church grow from one of 148 communicants in 1925 to that today of 511. These totals mean nothing unless we consider the composite number of confirmations in the span of years, together with the losses by death or for other reasons. Our membership is an alert 15 group — vitally interested in the spiritual aspect of our church and also in its physical upkeep. In Emmanuel, as in many churches, much is contributed, through the three guilds for women, to the benevolent pro- gram of our church, as well as to its local maintenance. St. Catherine's is the oldest, and its work has been ably supple- mented by that of the Altar Guild and by the more recently organized St. Gregory's Guild. Prominent in the earlier days of our church was the Bro- therhood of St. Andrew. With fluctuating success and achievement this organization eventually evolved into the men's club of today. We have seen through the years a growing interest in the welfare and services of the University Chapel of St. John the Divine. The first service for our students and faculty was held in 1910 with the Rev. Fred W. Poland as chaplain. The Rev. John Mitchell Page became the second chaplain to the University students, and through his untiring efforts, together with the guidance of Bishop Sherwood, plans were formed for the erection of a student church. In the meantime services continued in various University buildings. In May, 1925, with the laying of the cornerstone for the chapel at the corner of Wright Street and Armory, a beginning was made for a strong University Episcopal Church. The first service in the new building was held in the fall of 1927 with the Rev. Morton C. Stone, chaplain. Upon his resignation in 1931, the Rev. Herbert L. Miller was appointed chaplain. Under his direction, during a period of eleven years, much of the chapel debt was erased due to his systematic appeals to interested friends for funds. The nearness of Chanute Field brought through the years of World War II a challenge for cooperation and interest on the part of Emmanuel Memorial Church. Not only did we welcome the young men who visited our church, but our rector held many services at the field and directed worship along Episcopal lines. Another definite contribution to the spiritual life of the parish has come through the continued observance in our church of the complete Lenten season climaxed by the Three Hour Passion service. This custom has also had its influence upon the other churches in our community. 16 THE ALTAR AT CHRISTMAS-TIME It is on Christmas Eve that our church dons its festive dec- orations of southern smilax and colorful poinsettias. The crys- tal star, made and presented by Dr. Ray C. Armstrong, shines over the altar, while in our chapel reposes the creche. It is the time when all hearts are hushed as we welcome the Christ Child — the Saviour of mankind — whom we are henceforth to meet in the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. 17 Young People in Emmanuel It would be impossible to record adequately the growth and development of Emmanuel Church without consider- ing the part which young people have had in our parish life. From the earliest days of our Church the entire family was a vital part of our membership. The children were trained in serious participation in church worship, but prior to 1926 there were no acolytes. Faithful activity in the Sunday School and choirs of our church can be credited throughout the years to many of our young members whose services, at times, have been augmented by those of their friends. Our choir of today under the able direction of Professor Duane Branigan adds much to the beau- ty and spiritual quality of our services. We remember with sincere gratitude the long years of service in our choir of Mr. Wm. Styan. His great interest in the younger choir boys prompted Mr. Styan's generous gift of money that those boys might be taken on camping trips in the summer. To Mrs. Marcia Magee is attributed the honor of reviving and developing our Church School Our present very active and efficient school has grown through the years until today we are proud of its size and influence. We have given our young men to serve in both World Wars and have seen three blue stars on our Second World War service flag covered with the gold of honor and sacrifice. Those three stars represent Joseph Conard, Joe Hamlin, and George Variam. Honor and extreme gratefulness from all of Emmanuel go to the four young men who have taken holy orders in the Episcopal Church. These younger priests are the Reverend Messrs. William Elwell, Darwin Kirby, Jr., Robert H. Moore, and Arthur Rowley, all of whom are serving actively to the honor of God. Emmanuel's Endowment Fund For many years the income from our National Endow- ment Fund largely supported the Champaign Mission Church until we became an independent parish of Emmanuel Church. It is more than fitting, therefore, that we should be interested in the establishment of our own Endowment Fund. By act of the Vestry in 1921 an Endowment Fund Trust was 18 created following a bequest of $5,000 in the will of Robert D. Burnham. The declaration of trust was executed in triplicate, and all were signed by the vestry. One copy was attached to the minutes of the vestry; one copy was given to the trustees; and one copy was recorded July 21, 1921, in Book XVI, p. 205, of Miscellaneous Records in the Record- er's Office of Champaign County. The declaration of trust was signed on June 1, 1921, by the Rev. George P. Hoster as rector; D. C. Morrissey, rector's warden; E. G. Stevens, parish warden; and P. W. Wright, D. G. Swannell, H. H. Monier, A. D. Mulliken, Wm. Styan, and George Cushman as vestrymen. Through the trust agreement this fund is augmented by bequests through wills or gifts or by bequests of money the use of which has not otherwise been specified. The Endow- ment Fund was started with $5,000 and, due to the generous gifts of many, principally through bequests of Dr. John L. Polk and Cora J. Polk, it has grown until it now represents a total of $55,373.08. Much of the credit for the splendid management and safe investment of the funds in our Endowment belongs to Mr. Vern Roland who, for over eighteen years, had been treasurer of the trustees. He resigned January, 1951, and has been suc- ceeded by Mr. Wallace M. Mulliken. Later Gifts and Memorials 1. Two Missal Books for the altar, gift of Dan G. Swannell. 2. Two clergy Prayer Books, gift of Vern A. Roland. 3. The organ. 4. Chancel and Sanctuary Prayer Books for choir and aco- lytes — in memory of Mrs. Etna Etyan by St. Catherine's Guild. 5. The Rood Screen, memorial to Vivian Monier Morrissey, by her daughter, Mrs. D. S. Noel and husband, D. C. Morrissey. 6. Choir stalls, gift of Kenneth H. Smith. 7. The church pews, given by Kenneth H. Smith, St. Cath- erine's Guild, and others. 8. Brass vases for chapel altar. 9. Two sets of processional torches, gift of the Rev. Her- bert L. Miller. 10. Three full sets of Eucharistic Vestments — red, violet, 19 ana wliite — by the Altar Guild. 1 1. Lectern Bible, memorial to Mrj. Bertha Ann Lachenmyer by the Lachenmyer family. 12. Lanterns in the Church and Chapel, two given in me- mory of John Barker, by Annie Barker, Mrs. John Bar- ker, and Francis J. Barker; two given by the Altar Guild; two given by St. Catherine's Guild; one as a memorial to Edith Riddell given by Mathew and Don- ald Riddell; one was the gift of H. H. Monier; one was in memory of Mrs. Augusta Samuelson, by Mrs. W. F. Johnston; two given in memory of Lena Lachenmyer by Miss Mary Lachenmyer. 13. Full set of prayer books for the church in memory of Sarah Throckmorton Gregory by Dr. L. L. Gregory. 14. Silver platter for palm crosses, in memory of the J. W. Cramer family. 15. Lavabo Bowl in memory of Robert F. Smythe by Mrs. S my the. 1 6. Three-piece silver communion set in memory of J. Heber Smith by the Heber Smith family. 17. Small Processional Cross. 18. Two seven-branch candelabra in memory of Wm. Wal- lace Aimbary, Don Harlow Amsbary, Harriet Harlow Amsbary, by Cordelia Amsbary. 19. Three five-branch candelabra, given by Mrs. A. L. Klank and the Rev. and Mrs. H. L. Miller. 20. Set of Requiem Vestments, gift of Mrs. Walter B. Riley. 21. Baptismal flagon. 22. Thurible and boat, gift of the Rev. Herbert L. Miller. 23. Baptismal shell, gift of Mrs. Frank Ramey. 24. Christ Child statue, memorial to Melissa Ann Noel, by Mrs. D. S. Noel. 25. Sanctuary Window — south side — "Wheat, grapes, and Chalice," memorial to Wm. J. Strode, by several friends. 26. Choir window, "Descending Dove," memorial to J. W. Cramer and family by the Cramer family. 27. Choir window, "Cross and Crown," memorial to James Marshall Brannon by Mrs. J. M. Brannon. 28. In the nave, "The Baptism of Christ" window, memorial to Katherine Richards Busey. 29. "Wedding in Cana" window, memorial to J. F. and 20 THE MEMORIAL ROOD SCREEN Agnes Lachenmyer, by the Lachenmyer family. 30. "The Transfiguration" window, memorial to Fannie E. Zuppke, given by Robert C. Zuppke. 31. "The Agony in the Garden" window, memorial to Frank D. Keck, given by Mrs. F. D. Keck. 32. "The Crucifixion" window, memorial to Mary and Charles P. Howard by Hartwell C. Howard. 33. "The Resurrection" window, memorial to William and Etna Styan, given by the Styan family. 34. "The Ascension" window, memorial to George A. Huff, given by several friends. 35. Bishop's chair and Sedalia, memorial to Thomas and Catherine Deakin, given by Mrs. Thomas Deakin, Sr. 36. Sedalia for acolytes, memorial to Anton and Mae Roland, given by Lela Collins and Vern A. Roland. 37. Sanctus Bell at High Altar, memorial to Emily Katherine Zech, given by R. W. Zech. 21 3 8. Three single candlesticks on the high altar, gift of Mrs. William E. Levis, Mrs. H. Payne Harris. 39. Three single candlesticks on high altar, memorial to Anne Babb, gift of Jessie C. Babb. 40. Brass alms basin. 41. Two wooden alms basins. 42. Jewelled processional cross, memorial to A. C. Burnham, gift of Mae W. Burnham. 43. Five sets of colored dossal hangings, gift of the Dr. L. T. Gregory family. 44. The church flag, memorial to Mary and Elroy Pettit, gift of Dr. R. L. Pettit. 45. The American flag, gift of the Gregory family. 46. Stand for the Pascal Candle. 47. Memorial Altar Linen Cloth, in honor of Warren Wal- ther. Financial Growth as Shown in Our Benevolences HThe strength of any parish can be ascertained by examin- ^ ing the concern of that parish in projects beyond its own church boundaries. Our church has consistently widened its interests to include a definite quota for missions as well as a general program of benevolences. A comparison in pledges between the years 1925 and 1951 will show the financial growth of Emmanuel: Total Parish Budget in 1925 $ 5,705.22 Total Parish Budget in 1951 18,302.00 Diocesan Assessment in 1925 276.00 Diocesan Assessment in 1951 1,175.00 Quota for missions in 1925 1,173.00 Quota for missions in 1951 2,727.00 These obligations have been met by a growing desire in each member of our parish to have a definite part in the pledges and contributions of our church. Of special interest was the gift of $500 to Canterbury College together with some valuable books of science for their library contributed by Prof. L. F. Audrieth. For three years our parish contribut- ed $400 a year for the care of French orphans. In addition to our every-member solicitation several money-making schemes such as the sale of Easter eggs, the bazaar, the sale of Christmas cards, and the rummage sales have become traditions in the plans of the three guilds. 22 A List of Our Parishioners of 1900 and Before Phe following list of communicants is from the memory of our older living members and from the records which we have. It may not be absolutely complete or correct. Annie Albright Cordelia Amsbary Mr. Angel Jessie Babb John Babb and family Mrs. C. H. Baddeley Mrs. John Barker Thomas Barker, Sr. and family Thomas Babb and family Harry Beam Lavinia Blackwell Mrs. M. W. Busey J. W. Cramer Harriet Cramer Elizabeth Cramer Frances Cramer John N. Crannell Mrs. Geo. N. Cunningham Mrs. Elizabeth Curzon William A. Day Thomas Deakin and family Prof, and Mrs. D. K. Dodge Mrs. Celia Dodsworth Mr. Dollinger and family Mrs. Kate Eisner Maurice Eisner Albert Eisner, Jr. Isaac Fielding and family Thomas and George Franks Mr. Grindley and family Mrs. J. B. Harris Mrs. H. P. Harris and daughters, Margaret and Elizabeth Ed and Frank Hegenbart Mrs. Hoag and daughter Parker Hoag Dr. Charles P. Howard Mary Howard Mrs. George Huff The Jervis family Mr. and Mrs. James C. Justice Mrs. H. C. Kariher, Sr. Dr. and Mrs. H. C. Kariher O. L. W. B. Keusink The Lachenmeyer family Mrs. Alice Picknell Leach Mrs. McManamy and family Mrs. Emma Manspeaker and family Mrs. Sarah Ann Marshall Milton Sarah Monier Mrs. Dan Morrissey, Sr. Fay Morrissey Mrs. D. C. Morrissey Mrs. Josephine D. Mulliken A. D. Mulliken Mrs. Phoebe Mulliken Storey Mrs. Thomas Naughton The E. P. Niles family Grace Peabody Mrs. A. Pickens Charles, Frank, Fred, and Owen Picknell Mr. and Mrs. Owen Picknell, Sr. Dr. and Mrs. J. L. Polk and three sons Charles and John Poll Mr. and Mrs. Jasper W. Porter Mr. Rethy and family Mrs. Ellen M. Richards Humphrey Roberts and family Thomas Roberts and family Mrs. Mae Weeks Roland and family Mrs. Robert Rolfe Dell Scudder Mary J. Snyder G. W. Squires and family J. Y. Stevens Archie and George Strode Mr. and Mrs. William Styan Mrs. Dan G. Swannell Mrs. Annice Picknell Thornhill Mrs. Clarence T. Walton Mrs. P. W. Woody, Jamie, Paul, and Way Woody Welch 23 Significant Dates In Brief 1. First record of a meeting as a congregation, December, 1870. 2. 1877 — Springfield Diocese formed. 3. 1878 — First visit of the Rt. Rev. George F. Seymour to the Champaign Church for confirmations. 4. Emmanuel Church, corner State and University Ave- nues, although still a mission, was incorporated in 1882 and opened February 4, 18 83. 5. First rectory owned by the church — 203 W. Clark St. — 1886. 6. The Guild Hall was built in 1894 at a cost of $1,200 and enlarged in 1898 at a cost of $2,000. 7. December, 1900, the congregation decided to become a parish but voted to defer action until the next year. 8. In 1902, a rectory at 401 South State Street was pro- vided. 9. April, 1907, first mention of any work with the Univer- sity students. 10. 1910 — Fire in Emmanuel. 1 1 . October, 191 6 — Acceptance of the offer of Dr. and Mrs. J. L. Polk for the gift of a memorial church. 12. October 25, 1917, cornerstone laid. 13. June 26, 1918, consecration of Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church. 14. Declaration of trust establishing our Endowment Fund signed June 1, 1921. 15. 1928 — Celebration of the 50th anniversary of Emman- uel Church. 16. May 6, 1951, twenty-fifth anniversary of the ministry of the Rev. Flerbert L. Miller in Champaign. The Committee will welcome suggestions of further information or source* of information. 24