(§m Viunbttb f*ar# Mttfyabiem mk Island JUttwla urn- im ILLINOIS HISTORICAL SURVEY Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2012 with funding from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign http://www.archive.org/details/onehundredyearsoOOrock One Hundred Years of Methodism 1836.. 1936 The First Methodist Episcopal Church CORNER FIFTH AVENUE AND NINETEENTH STREET, ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS REVEREND ERNEST J. CAMPBELL, PASTOR .1 Z fcft^ The First Methodist Episcopal Church Corner Fifth Avenue and Nineteenth Street Rock Island, Illinois 2] Foreword The inspiration of this book came from our pastor, Rev. Ernest J. Campbell, who, early in the year, realizing that a centennial anniversary called for more than ordinary cel- ebration, determined upon a written record of our church activities as a part of a fitting observance of our one hun- dredth birthday. A committee was appointed consisting of Mrs. William Lavender, chairman, Mrs. William Hodgson, Mrs. Justine Washburn, Mrs. William Starnes and Mr. L. H. Ewing to act with the pastor. To this committee, who so untiringly worked for the success of this book, to the writers of the various papers, who so lovingly labored to present for today and for pos- terity the records here presented and to Mr. L. H. Ewing, whose skill and generosity made the pictures possible, we extend our appreciation, and it is with a great deal of pride that this record of things accomplished locally by Methodism during the past century is presented to this congregation. However, the present work is not in any sense a history but rather an appreciation of the work of the century just past. A century that marks the development of a great church — keeping pace with the secular development of this community. The pages which follow trace the beginning of Old First Methodist of Rock Island and its evolution from a small band of God-fearing settlers — symbol of the pioneer age in the development of our great country — to a congrega- tion over twelve hundred strong which is also symbolical of the life of today. As we reiterate the growth and development of this [3 church we cannot but recognize the debt it owes to its found- ers — those brave and valient souls who laid its foundation and shaped its course. Succeeding generations have carried on and God only knows the difficulties and problems which have been met and solved by those who have received help and guidance in this church and the members who have found the Light through the preaching of His Word here. May our children and the young folks of today preserve and develop this legacy handed on to them and may the rec- ord set forth here inspire them to attain still greater accom- plishment in His Name. "My church — my church — my dear old church My fathers and my own On prophets and apostles built And Christ the corner stone. All else beside — by storm or tide May yet be overthrown But not my church — my own dear church My fathers and my own." Co-Editors : Emma Louise Battles Charlotte Kenworthy Battles December 6, 1936. [4 TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE I. Greetings from Bishop Waldorf 6 II. Greetings from Present Pastor and Wife 7 III. Greetings from Former Living Pastors 8-10 IV. Historical Sketch of Rock Island 11-19 V. Memorial Windows 20 VI. Early Methodism in Rock Island 21-33 VII. Methodist Episcopal Church 34 VIII. Churches and Parsonages 35-37 IX. Board of Trustees 38 X. Ministers of the Church 39-46 XL The Ladies Aid Society 47-69 XII. Woman's Foreign Missionary Society 70-76 XIII. Woman's Home Missionary Society.... 77-79 XIV. Church Interior 80 XV. Our Newly Decorated Church 81 XVI. Ella Taylor Auxiliary 82 XVII. Epworth League 83-88 XVIII. Sunday School 89-93 XIX. Superintendents of Sunday School 94 XX. Adult Bible Classes 95-100 XXI. The Choir— The Organ— The Bell 101-104 XXII. Church Organizations 105-109 XXIII. Estimated Budget, 1936-1937 109 XXIV. Church Membership 110-119 XXV. Non- Resident Members 120-121 XXVI. List of Pastors and Elders 122 XXVII. Centennial Jubilee Program 123 [5] Greeti: in '& Bishop Ernest Lynn Waldorf, D.D., LL.D. "One hundred years is a long time. I be- come very enthusias- tic over your splendid history as I become better acquainted with it and as I have felt the fine spirit throughout your present church congregation which is the nat- aural outgrowth from that which has been happening down all the years making it possible. A birthday is not a tombstone marking the end of the jour- ney, it is a milestone marking the present position which is to be changed mile by mile to something farther along and better. Your present is the outgrowth of your past. It is the start for your future. May your future harvest be rich and bounteous." With all good wishes, I am. Yours sincerely, £L^_^-*^~. ^xu^y 6] Greetings from the present pastor and his wife The first hundred years are past. Those who came to es- tablish the First Methodist Episcopal Church in Rock Island brought with them, from their New England home, tender memories and rich inheritance. We also carry into the new century of our history tender memories and rich inheritance from those who served so well in the hundred years of glorious service rendered by this church in this city. Broad founda- tions have been laid and it remains for the church of today to build wisely for the years to come. Our church is to be congratulated upon its beautiful and adequate building, its more than twelve hundred members and its financial ability adequate to the task ; but most of all upon its fine spirit of sacrificial service and friendly christian unity. We are in fact and in deed one family in Christ. Mrs. Campbell and I are proud to be serving this church, and we congratulate you upon the victory thus far, even as we pray God's blessing upon our service together in His Name. With Love, Rev. and Mrs. Ernest T. Campbell. 7} 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Greetings. I congratulate First Methodist Church of Rock Island on its centennial. I send my cordial greetings and best wishes to Pastor and people. Fond memories of my service as pastor are still bright; I remember with undying love the friends I made in Rock Island. I wish I might join in your cele- bration. I pray the Church may enjoy a glorious future of service here and a blessed reunion of ministers and members here- after. Charles O. McCulloch. Greetings... "It's no trick to grow old," says Edgar Guest, "Anyone can do so if — if he has time." And you have had time, old First Church! What have you done with the greatest century since Christ was born ? Touched by the mystic chords of memory we envisage the eager listening multitudes who have lingered under your shelter, upon whom the Spirit came ere they ran with winged feet up the shining pathway of immortality. You have peopled the land of the unclouded sky, and many sons and daughters, here and yonder, rise up to bless you. We acknowledge our inheritance. We own that your glorious career has pledged us to noblest action. Your great yesterdays bespeak great tomorrows. Glorious of the past, we salute you ! More glorious of the future, we hail you ! In memory of four beautiful years of golden fellowship. Thomas E. Newland. [8] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Greetings The Rock Island Church has a notable history. Its names and traditions give it distinction in the civic and religious life of the Mississippi Valley. Some of its hon- ored names have been known throughout Amerian Methodism. I hold it a privilege to have been con- nected with Rock Island First Church ; and I wish for it yet greater usefulness and in- fluence. Sincerely, Samuel Van Pelt. Los Angeles, Calif. November 3rd, 1936. Greetings A century of history of a great Church in a great field ! Who can measure the spiritual contribution it has made to the commu- nity? The challenge of today is for a faith and work worthy the pioneer's into whose labors we have entered. It is my joy that I was privileged to labor with you as pastor for nine of those years, my premier pas- torate in time and rewards of service. Will you please read : My prayer for you — Ehpesians 3:14-19. My Blessing on you — Revelation 22-21. Joseph A. Chapman. 1920—1929. 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Greetings to the many friends and co-workers in First Methodist Episcopal Church, Rock Island : It is a genuine pleasure to send greet- ings to a church and people with such a record of faith and Christian achievement. The pioneers who launched this Christian enterprise one hundred years ago deserve our highest esteem and gratitude, and to those who share in the joys of this Centen- nial Jubilee we extend greetings and con- gratulations. To have been the ministerial shepherd of so fine a group of Christian people has brought great joy to our hearts. Indeed, here we had one of our happiest pastorates. Here we found not only sympathy and love combined in a beautiful Christian spirit, but a challenge to be and to do our best. The remembrance of this fel- lowship shall abide. Mrs. Sandmeyer joins me in love and best wishes on this occa- sion, expressing the hope that the tomorrows will bring added hap- piness to both church and people. Very sincerely yours, Edwin Gustaf Sandmeyer. 580 ERECTION OF COTHCHES. A IJetsmy supplicated. " i\ n ' .!.»T« n !i """n™ "«'''" of ' ifl " ll i'„',morui"C,', t ';'„ "'.'' '■;•"<*"'* "" hti e ht . 1 Ytl, U..I. oil, re'CT Arr met IV,r |,»., „ Wh.rrw t.fl,. „ ,...,,, First Authorized Hymnal, 1857 [10] Jl IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Historical Sketch of Rock Island, Illinois By j. f. witter , ^^qg&fa^ 1 N the early part of the seventeenth century this W^^^ w portion of the Mississippi Valley was inhabited by a tribe of Indians known as the Kaskaskias, at which time there were living on the St. Law- rence River in that portion of Canada where Montreal is situated, a tribe of Indians known as Sauks or Sacs. This tribe belongs to the great family of Indians known as the Algonquin ; to which family such well known tribes as the Mohicans, Pottawa- tomies, Manhattans and Kaskaskias belonged. The Algonquin fam- ily ranged from Northern Canada to the latitude of South Carolina, and from the Atlantic coast to the Rocky Mountains. The tribes living on the St. Lawrence river drove the Sacs west- ward, until finally they reached a point on Lake Michigan near the site of the present City of Green Bay, where they met the Foxes with whom they made an alliance and treaty of friendship ; which seemed to be a necessity since neither tribe was sufficient to with- stand their enemies. From Green Bay they were still driven west- ward until they entered the valley of the Wisconsin River. While living in that locality some of the young men of that tribe explored the Rock River valley and the country tributary thereto, and being pleased with the country, they returned and made a favorable re- port, whereupon the united tribe determined to descend Rock River, and located and built the City of Sauk-e-nuk, about three miles from the city of Rock Island, on the site of which a portion of the village of Sears now stands. The Sacs and Foxes were known as village Indians ; they did not live in skin wigwams like many other tribes, but had permanent vil- lages. When on their hunting excursions, which often lasted for months, and extended many miles, they lived in mat lodges, made of flags woven together. The Village of Sauk-e-nuk was a permanent village, in fact the village of the Mississippi Valley. It is said that at the height of its [in 100 YEARS OF METHODISM glory it contained nearly eleven thousand Indians. The city was laid out in blocks, with two public squares. The frame work of the houses of the village were long and narrow, was made of poles, cov- ered with bark and called Hoden-a-sates. Many of the homes con- tained the grandparents, and the husbands, wives, and children of the succeeding generations. The Foxes had their villaage on the Mississippi River, extending west from Elm Street (now Thirtieth Street) in the present City of Rock Island. In the neighborhood where the Brewery now stands, on Elm Street was the Foxes burying ground, and no doubt the soil of that locality contains the dust of many of that tribe who long ago went to their happy hunting grounds. These Indians were inclined to agricultural pursuits; they raised corn, beans, pumpkins and squashes. On the point of the bluff, commencing about four hundred feet west of the Watch Tower, was the Sauks burying ground, in which many a Sauks warrior with his squaw found their last resting place. It was customary to place at the head of these graves, a painted pole, on which was painted or inscribed in Indian fashion the great deeds accomplished by the deceased as a warrior or Chief. The Sauks and Foxes are reputed to have been honest. Col. George Davenport in his lifetime stated, that when the bell rang for dinner the Clerk would leave the trader's store on the Island wholly unprotected, with the Indians in and about the store ; that they never missed anything, not even a clay pipe ; he had great faith in their honesty and was accustomed to furnish them food and supplies dur- ing the winter, upon their promise of payment when the Government should pay them their annuities, which was usually paid in silver ; the only security required was the word of the Chiefs, and at one time the debt amounted to $82,000 which was fully and promptly paid. Black Hawk was born in the Sauk City on Rock River in 1767, and became Chief of his tribe about the year 1790, of which position he was proud. At one time when General Gaines was holding a par- ley with the Indians relating to their removal west he asked "Who is Black Hawk?" The old Chief replied, "I am a Sac, my forefather was a Sac, and all the nations call me a Sac." The Watch Tower, now State Park, was named after him. It was a favorite resort of Black Hawk; situated on the highest bank [12] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS of Rock River, it had been selected by his father as a look out, at the first building of the Sauk City. Black Hawk is spoken of kindly by many who knew him, as possessing those elements of character that constitute a noble nature ; kind and affable, an affectionate husband and father and although an Indian, possessing many of the distinguishing characteristics of an Indian, he had many qualities that white men might well emulate. It is related of him that he complained of Jacob Vandruff, one of the early settlers on Rock River, for selling liquor to the Indians, not being able to prevail on Vandruff to desist, he took a part of Indians with him and went to Vandruff's cabin on Vandruff's Island, knocked in the heads of the whiskey barrels and emptied the liquor. He was an original crusader. In the year 1828, Keokuk the head Chief of the Foxes, with the main body of his tribe, moved west and settled on the Iowa River, but Black Hawk and his warriors about 500 in number refused to leave. In the spring of 1831, by reason of a disturbance between Black Hawk and the white settlers, Governor Reynolds of Illinois in command of State militia, and General Gaines in charge of U. S. troops, formed an expedition against Black Hawk and his party, but when they arrived at the village, the Indians had crossed to the opposite shore of the Mississippi, now Iowa ; they however, returned in the spring of 1832, which led to what is known as the Black Hawk war, which was substantially ended by the Battle of Bad Axe, on the Northern Mississippi, August 2nd, 1832, at which Black Hawk, and his son Seoskuk, were taken prisoners, and after traveling east to Washington and other cities, he returned and died in Davis County, Iowa, Oct. 3rd, 1838. During the war of 1812 with Great Britain the Indians of this portion of the Mississippi Valley were hostile to the United States, and for a long distance north from St. Louis there was no military station on the river suitable to be employed as a base for military op- eration and supplies. The peculiar advantages of the location of this Island for a military station early attracted the attention of the officers of the Government, and the large number of Indians located in this valley and particularly at the Indian Village on Rock River already mentioned, required military oversight; hence it was determined by the Government to build a Fort, the construction of which was begun at the lower extremity of the Island in the year 1816. From this [13 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM point arose to a considerable height above the waters of the river a perpendicular wall of limestone rock, which, covered with rich ver- dure and forest trees, was an object of great interest to persons as- cending the river, and this bold rock front suggested Rock Island as the appropriate name for this Island. In referring to this Island, the Indian Chief, Black Hawk said "it was the best Island in the Mississippi, and had long been the resort of our young people dur- ing the summer ; it was our garden which furnished us with straw- berries, blackberries, plums, apples, and nuts of various kinds, and its waters supplied us with pure fish, being situated in the rapids of the river. In my early life I spent many happy days on this Island." At the time the troups landed on the Island, the lower end where the Fort was built, was covered with oak, black walnut, elm, and basswood trees. The Fort was named Fort Armstrong in honor of the Secretary of War. The interior of the Fort was 400 feet square ; the walls were of stone and hewn timber ; at the north, east, northeast, and southwest angles, block houses were built, and provided with cannons. One side of the square was occupied by barracks and other buildings ; the northwest corner of the Fort was about 200 feet from the pres- ent location of the end of the bridge. After this, one General Street had charge of the Island till 1838, from which time Col. George Davenport was in charge till 1840. Col. Davenport was the first white settler in the vicinity of Rock Island, and while not at any time a resident he was one of the owners of the first house built within its limits, and also one of the Com- missioners that entered the land whereon the town of Stephenson was located. He was an Englishman by birth, born in Lincolnshire. In early life he followed the sea. While at Xew York, where he arrived in 1804, on board a ship he met with an accident which prevented his return. After his recovery he enlisted in the United States Army and took part in the Battle of Lundy's Lane. He was discharged from the United States Army in 1815, after which he was employed in supplying the troops with provisions. In the Spring of 1816 he ascended the Mississippi River with the troops, landing on the Island May 16th, where he assisted in the selection of the site of Fort Armstrong. From the time he came here, he began to trade with the Indians ; and also became interested r i4i IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS in the Galena lead mines where in connection with others he built a furnace for smelting lead at or near the City of Dubuque. In 1818 he formed a partnership with Russell Farnum which continued for four years; during which time they carried on the business of freighting on the Mississippi River in keel boats. In 1822 Mr. Davenport became a member of the American Fur Company in which relation he continued until 1842, after which time he resided on the Island and devoted his attention to his personal business interest in this locality and in the City of Davenport, which is called by his name. He is reputed to have been a man of a free and generous disposition, with ability, courage and perseverance that merited admiration. On the 4th day of July, 1845, while alone in his house on the Island, he was attacked by a band of burglars and beaten so cruelly that he died in a few hours, retaining sufficient con- sciousness, however, to describe the assassins and the circumstan- ces of the assault. The murderers, Aaron and John Long, and Granville Ytoung, were executed October 19, 1845, and their accom- plices were sentenced to the penitentiary. Russell Farnum was a native of New Haven, Conn., whence, in the employ of John Jacob Astor with fourteen others, he went via St. Louis ascending the Missouri River, and thence northwest to the mouth of the Columbia River to establish a trading station on the Pacific Coast, while three vessels were equipped and sent round the Cape Horn for the same purpose. Of the fifteen who went overland, ten perished before reaching their destination. After untold hard- ships, Farnum with four others reached the point for which they had started, from which they saw the ships lying at anchor, and at the same time also saw a large body of Indians on the shore, from the actions of whom, they judged to be hostile. Afraid to light a lire to signal the vessel, they waited until morning, when a large number of Indians in canoes pushed off from the shore and surrounded one of the vessels which in a short time was blown up, when the other two cut their cables and put to sea. The five men then retraced their steps, traveling northeast, until all save Farnum had perished, and he was taken prisoner by sonic Indians who spared his life and adopted him into their tribe. In course of years they took him to a Russian trader's station in Alaska who understood writing in English. To this man Farnum made known his situation and asked him to forward an account of it to [15 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM the American Minister in St. Petersburg, which he did, and in due time the Russian government sent an order to the trader to ransom him, but not until two years had elapsed after the first visit to the trader was he permitted by the Indians to go with them again when the trader having received orders secured his ransom; whereupon he set out to find a vessel to take him to St. Petersburg, in which after great risk and exposure he succeeded. After reaching St. Petersburg he returned to New York via London. He was absent for about ten years for which entire time Astor paid him his wages, and with this money he came west to St. Louis where he met Col. George Davenport with whom he engaged in business establishing themselves at what afterward was known as the village of Farnums- burg, afterward called Stephenson, now Rock Island. The first house built on the site of the present City of Rock Is- land, was a log house, erected by Col. Davenport and Russell Far- num on the bank of the river near the present site of the residence of the late P. L. Cable. This log house was afterward enlarged by an addition of one and a half stories, and was first kept as a hotel by one John Barrell, a Virginian, who married a cousin of Mr. Baily Davenport. There was considerable travel up the River from St. Louis and other points to the lead mines at Galena, and the Island with the Fort thereon being a prominent point in the line of travel, the patronage of the hotel was good. Gentlemen slept up stairs on clean hay, to which they ascended by a ladder at the west end of the house ; a sign over the bedroom door warned the patrons, that they must take off their boots before entering the bedroom, also that no smoking was allowed ; the price per meal was one dollar, payable as soon as the guest sat down to eat; 50 cents was charged for the privilege of sleeping on the hay ; for the amount of capital invested it is said that the Far- numsburg Hotel, or The House of John Barrell, by which name it was more familiarly known was a more profitable institution than the elegant and commodious hotels now in our City. The county of Rock Island was formed from Jo Davis County by an act of Legislature, February 9th, 1831, which after fixing the boundaries and giving name to the county, provided for the election of certain county officers whenever it should be made to appear that the county contained three hundred and fifty inhabitants. On the first day of March, 1833, a further act was passed where- r i6i IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS by three persons were named and appointed commissioners, whose duty it should be to locate a permannt seat of justice for Rock Island County; and when selected and located to be called Stephenson, in commemoration of Col. Benjamin Stephenson. Also by said act, the citizens of said Rock Island County were authorized, on the first Monday of July, 1833, to elect three county commissioners, and other officers, in pursuance of the provisions of this law, an election for the county officers therein named, was held on the 5th day of July, 1833, at the house of John Barrell, in Farnumsburg, at which election sixty-five votes were cast, and the said officers duly elected. On the third day after said election, the county commissioners who had been elected, met at the same place and organized. The commis- sioners named in the law to locate the county seat, having failed to meet or take any action under their appointment, the county com- missioner's court ordered that until such location should me made, elections and courts be held at the house of John Barrell, which was thereafter known as the court house. The first term of the Circuit Court was held at the house of John Barrell in Farnumsburg beginning on the 28th day of April, 1834, with the Hon. Richard M. Young, Presiding Judge. The first estate to be administered upon the Court of Probate at Farnumsburg was the estate of John Buttler, who died leaving a will appointing John W. Spencer his Executor, which was presented for Probate February 20, 1836. The land selected for the location of the town was subsequently entered by the County Commissioners, George Davenport, John W. Spencer, and John Vanatta on the 11th day of May, 1836. By an order of the County Commissioners' Court, October, 1835, the records of the County were removed from Farnumsburg to Stephenson, to which place the courts were also removed. The Court house was built in 1837 by Samuel Smith, under con- tract with the County Commissioners. It cost $10,500 exclusive of the brick. The contract was let June 6, 1836, to be completed by December 1, 1837. The building of the Rock Island House was one of the leading causes of the drift of business to the east. This Hotel was the leading house in the city. Tt was the center of the political gossip, in fact the news center of the County, from this house the stages started. r 17 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM At the time the town of Stephenson was laid out, there were two houses built upon the town site, one by Charles Case, in the fall of 1834, on the northeast corner of 11th Street and 2nd i\venue, and one by William T. Brashar on 2nd Avenue in the southwest corner of the Rock Island House block. The first town lots disposed of by the County Commissioners were lots five and six in Block one, being the southwest quarter of the block in which the Rock Island House stood, which they donated to Wm. T. Brashar, and lots 5 and 6 in Block 6, situated on the east side of 11th Street between 1st and 2nd Avenues, which they donated to Louden L. and Charles H. Case on- the 10th day of July, 1835. On the 11th day of July, 1835, the County Commissioners Court ordered a public sale of 85 lots in the town of Stephenson, which was well advertised, having been pub- lished in Missouri, Alton and Galena. The business part of the town in the years following was in the neighborhood of Thirteenth and Fourteenth Streets, and First and Second Avenues. The laying out of Spencer and Case's addition attracted the at- tention of the people to the east end of the town, the proprietors of that addition were well known and active residents, and liberal in their terms to purchasers. By act of the Legislature, on the 27th day of February, 1841, the name of the town of Stephenson, including all the additions thereto, was changed to that of Rock Island, and under that name incorporated. It was invested with a city charter by An Act, ap- proved February 12, 1849. On February 16, 1857, another and more comprehensive charter was provided for it, under which it operated until November 4, 1879, when, by an election held for that purpose, the incorporation was changed to an organization under the general laws of the state for the incorporation of cities. At a meeting of the city council held November 10, 1879, a canvass of the votes was made, showing as the result 773 votes in favor of and 155 votes against in- corporation under the general law, and as a result af that election, the City of Rock Island from that to the present has performed all of its municipal functions under the general law of the State relat- ing to cities. The years 1851 to 1857 are looked upon as the prosperous years of this City, the building and entrance into the City of the Rock Island Railroad stimulated business, and led to great prosperity; at the same time the traffic on the river by steamboats reached a height [18] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS of prosperity that it had not attained before and has not since. Dur- ing those years the locality around the Rock Island depot at the foot of Twentieth Street, and the boarding houses, saloons, stores, and warehouses on the blocks fronting the river to Sixteenth Street was the scene of unusual activity. The great emigration to the west from the east, and Europe, in the years named was the main cause of this business activity. During the years last named the business of the City drifted east and took permanent hold of that portion of Second Avenue between Fifteenth and Twentieth Streets. The population of Rock Island has had a steady growth, but never any phenomenal boom. At the present time the population is approximately 40,000, and the city covers an area of approximately ten (10) square miles and occupies the entire township of Rock Is- land, and much of the township of South Rock Island lying between Rock River and the Mississippi River. It has seven (7) parks with the total of 150 acres valued at $1,400,000.00. It has 6974 tele- phones, 38 churches, representing 17 denominations. About 60% of the 10,124 homes are owned by the occupants. In the last few years the hard roads have materially altered the mode of transportation of both passenger and freight, and some im- portant hard roads are routed through Rock Island. The river trans- portation has been changed to transportation by rail and much of the railroad transportation is now done over the hard roads. By reason of the river improvement, the Government expects to restore in a large measure the transportation by water. The four (4) leading hotels, Fort Armstrong, Harper House, Como and Harms furnish the travelling public with all modern con- veniences. Rock Island has been widely advertised throughout the country by reason of the Rock Island Arsenal, Rock Island railroad, Augus- tana College, Rock Island Plow Company and other factories bear- ing the name of Rock Island. Footnote: The author desires to acknowledge his indebtedness to the late Hon. Wm. Jackson for his article published in "Fifty Years in Methodism in Rock Island" published in 1886. [19] 100 YEARS OF METHODISM ■v B 2 < M § a a e=5 >- en l fc 20 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Early Methodism in Rock Isklld, Illinois By Millicent S. Spencer [A SKETCH OF THE EARLY HISTORY OF THE FIRST METH- ODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS. COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY MISS MILLICENT S. SPENCER, A GREAT-GRANDDAUGHTER OF CALVIN SPENCER.] AMERICAN Methodism was established at a Conference held in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1784. As the pioneers moved westward from the East and made new settlements, the Methodist Circuit Rider followed their trail, and soon, here and there, through the new communities, Methodism was established. Early Methodism did a great deal in its min- istry to the frontier in the pioneer day. The itinerary system was so complete that the far away districts and scattered settlements could be reached by the sturdy pioneer preacher. The Methodist creed was accepted by the refined and the rough settler alike, and in this way the Methodist church played a great part in the early days of Illinois. Among the early Methodist ministers who preached in Illinois were Rev. Joseph Lillard in 1793, and Rev. Hosea Riggs in 1796. All organizations of the church were complete when Methodism reached Illinois. The General Conference was held every four years, at which all Methodists were represented. The annual Conference was held each year and was always well attended. The slavery struggle, which divided the church and the democratic tendencies of our nation, introduced lay representation in the General Conference. But the Conferences are not of the pioneer day alone, nor was the influence different then, than today. In the early day, the lone circuit rider had to push off into new territory and was continually passing through new wildernesses in order to minister to the Christian people and preach the word of God to the lawless and Godless. But with all privations and hardships [21] 100 YEARS OF METHODISM he was compelled to bear, this good man was happy in the thought that he was doing God's command, that the Conference stood back of him, and that the Presiding Elder would visit his field four times a year to help and counsel. Several other institutions that were of great value to the church in the early day, have either disappeared or have been so changed that they have lost their pioneer character, such as the camp-meeting, class meeting and the quarterly meetings. The earliest group of Methodists were called classes. When a circuit of several classes was formed it was known as a society. In new settlements there would often be a few Methodists. These would join together and one of their number be appointed the leader. The leader looked after their spiritual welfare and took care of the money given for the work of the church. He was usually the most religious, the best qualified and the most prominent man in the com- munity. He was ready for any service, he never forgot the poor or needy, his duty was his delight, his Bible his teacher, and he con- secrated his soul and his energies unremittingly and unreservedly to God and His cause. The class meeting was held once a week. As more Methodists moved into the community new clashes were formed under new leaders. Each class was banded together, and all members prospered and suffered alike. The new members were carefully guided and taught until they became well versed in spiritual affairs. The early classes placed the Methodist Church on a very firm foundation. The circuit rider traveling from circuit to circuit kept the classes in the straight and narrow path of the Methodist doctrine. Every three months the quarterly meetings were held and were of importance to the early church. The meetings commenced on Friday and lasted through Monday morning. The Presiding Elder, the minister in charge of the circuit, the exhorter, class leaders and many members attended the meeting, and usually stayed through all services. Such meetings were held in a home or building which had been especially prepared, if no church was available. In the sum- mer the meetings were held out of doors and were splendidly con- ducted. Great enthusiasm and excitement prevailed. Many con- versions took place at the quarterly meetings. It is said that Rev. Jesse Walker conducted the first camp meet- ing is Illinois in 1807. The camp meetings were of great importance to the early Methodist church. The people came in great numbers [22 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS and stayed on or near the camp grounds during the entire time. The sermons usually lasted an hour or more, one sermon following another without an intermission. The singing was interesting, the minister reading two lines and the congregation singing two lines, every two lines being read and sung. This was called lining the hymns. The first sermon preached in Rock Island County was at the home of Colonel Davenport in 1819, by a Methodist preacher named Peter Williams. The preacher carried the mail on his back from Rock Island to Clarksville, Mo., regularly every three months. In 1829 Rev. John Kinney, a Methodist preacher, held services at Fort Armstrong and preached there frequently afterwards. In 1829 Black Hawk returned to this locality and laid claim to the land he said the Indians still owned and had a right to occupy. The Black Hawk War in 1831-1832, was the result of his claim. The government had purchased the land from the Indians in 1804, and had repurchased it in 1829. Nevertheless the Indian did not want to leave the beautiful ancestral lands that were so dear to him, and he caused the white man no little trouble in continually returning. It would seem that the pioneer had little time for anything else than the defense of his family and himself against the attack of the red man ; but notwithstanding all the great dangers that surrounded him, the circuit rider of the Methodist church went forward to preach and help the pioneer and to take him God's message of love. No settlement was too far, no way too rugged, or no danger too great for the circuit rider; he must carry out God's command and preach His word to all mankind. The circuit rider had few worldly possessions. His circuit was his home, his horse and saddle he owned, and all his clothes and books were in the saddle bags. He was a true Christian man, and happy in the thought that he could help and minister to mankind. His was not an easy job, but nothing daunted him and he fearlessly rode forth to preach the gospel and to carry God's word far out into the wilderness and the new settlements. The Methodists had a great many circuit riders, — Peter Cart- wright being among the first. He was born in Amherst County on the James River, in Virginia, September 1st, 1785. Converted when a young boy, he started preaching at the age of 16. He at once be- came an exhorter and was sent out among the new settlements. r 23 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Many hardships were suffered by him but the pioneers were kind, and great hospitality was shown him. In 1828, the famous circuit rider rode the circuit from Galena to Kentucky, and it was then that Methodism reached Iowa. "There was but a scattered population". Cartwright says of his first preaching in Iowa. "Yet when they came to the meetings, the cabins were so small that not one would hold all. We removed to a grove and hastily prepared seats, with a bent-over tree trunk as a pulpit. I declared the unsearchable riches of the Gospel of Jesus Christ." The religion of today is a very dig- nified ceremony compared to that of the time of Peter Cartwright. Cartwright was appointed to the Quincy District in 1832, and cared for a number of missions commencing at the mouth of the Illinois river and running up and down the Mississippi river to Ga- lena. In the late 30's he visited the Mission at Rock Island, which was in charge of Philip Cordier. The mission was located at what was called Wells' settlement, a few miles above the mouth of Rock river. He again visited the mission a little later, accompanied by Rev. Henry Summers, a Presiding Elder, to attend the quarterly meeting. Both were riding horses, and many religious books were in their saddle bags. In fording Rock river Cartwright's horse slipped on a rock and fell down in the middle of the river. The sad- dle turned and Cartwright was thrown in the Rock River. He left his horse and swam after the saddle bags, which he recovered just before they began to sink. His clothes and his books, that were so dear to him, were ruined. In 1861, and in his 76th year, Peter Cartwright returned to Rock Island to lecture. The Davenport Gazette for October 3rd, 1861. said : "This octogenarian lectures this evening at the Methodist church in Rock Island. In all probability it will be the last oppor- tunity our citizens will have to hear this celebrated man. They should avail themselves of it. The proceeds of the lecture are to be given to the Methodist Church of Rock Island." Peter Cartwright died near Pleasant Plains, Illinois, September 25th, 1872, in his 87th year. Thus departed from this life one of God's noblest creatures. This great pioneer minister was only one of the many Methodist preachers of the early day. Out on the circuit and in the Presiding Elder's districts were such men as Crews, Summers, Haney, Morey, Chandler, Phelps, St. Clair, Brunson, and many more grand and [24] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS noble men. Although the early preachers worked at a great disad- vantage, endured many hardships and privations, they were all well informed men on matters of interest in their day. The settlers were glad to welcome the good Christian men to their cabins, as God's message, the current events and the news from the far distant neigh- bors was brought to them in this way. It was a happy gathering of Methodists at the fireside of one of the cabins, when these messen- gers of God came to the community. These noble men laid the found- ation of the growing church in piety and prayer, and gave to pos- terity a legacy more valuable than gold or silver. It was from the small gatherings and classes that the Methodist Church has grown and developed into one of the largest and best organized churches in the state. Methodism came to Rock Island, Illinois, with one of the first permanent white settlers, John W. Spencer, in 1829. The place was called Farnamsburg in 1833, Stephenson in 1835, and became Rock Island in 1841. John W. Spencer was born in Vergennes, Addison County, Vermont, July 25, 1801, and died at Rock Island, Illinois, February 20, 1878. Few men of his day exerted more influence in the church or state than did Judge Spencer. He was courageous under difficulties, perservered under failures, wise under achieved successes, and al- ways faithful to obligations. He was so kindly that Black Hawk and his men sought his friendship. Judge Spencer held many church and public offices and was a very prominent citizen in the commun- ity for years. WILLIAM ANSON SPENCER John W. and Eliza Spencer were the parents of Rev. William Anson Spencer, D. D., the prominent Methodist minister, writer of many Methodist hymns, secretary of the Board of Church Exten- sion and who had full charge of the Home Missionary Society work of the Methodist Church. He died at his home in Philadelphia September 25, 1901, and is buried in Chippiannock Cemetery, Rock Island, Illinois. At the funeral service of Rev. Spencer, Bishop Charles H. Fow- ler said, "I have not known a life that I could more emphatically call a success than this life. The volume, bound up, closed here, to be opened yonder, is a complete volume." The Spencer Memorial Church of Rock Island, Illinois, is named in his honor. [25] 100 YEARS OF METHODISM CLARISSA HALE SPENCER Miss Clarissa Hale Spencer was the daughter of Rev. William Anson and Eliza Boyle Spencer. She served five years as a mission- ary in Japan, and was known all through Europe and the Orient as well as America, as the leader in the Young Woman's Christian Work. Miss Spencer was one of the eight founders of the modern Y. W. C. A. For sixteen years she was the General Secretary of the World's Committee of the Y. W. C. A., with headquarters in London, England. She died in Joplin, Mo., April 9th, 1927, and is buried in Chippiannock Cemetery, Rock Island, Illinois. EDWARD W. SPENCER Edward W. Spencer, another son of John W. and Eliza Spen- cer was born at Rock Island, Illinois, September 20, 1835. He was the Sunday School superintendent and choir leader for many years, and worked untiringly in the early work of the Methodist Church, Rock Island, Illinois. In 1860 he received national renown for his bravery, while at- tending Northwestern University, in saving seventeen lives, when the "Lady Elgin" sank off the Wilmette Harbor of Lake Michigan. Mr. Spencer collapsed after the rescues, and in his exhausted con- dition which followed, asked repeatedly, "Did I do my best? Did I do my best ?" His health was permanently impaired, but his heroic example has been the inspiration to thousands. In 1910 Mr. Spencer and members of his family came from Cali- fornia, where he had gone to spend the sunset of his life, to attend the 50th anniversary of the disaster of the Northwestern University. He was highly honored, a degree conferred upon him, and a bronze tablet erected in the memory of his act. Mr. Spencer died at Bur- bank, California. September 8th, 1935, the 75th anniversary of the "Lady Elgin" disaster, Dr. Walter Dill Scott, President of the Northwestern Uni- versity, in the presence of William J. Hamilton, President of the Evanston Historical Society, and other prominent people, placed a wreath at the tablet of the late Edward W. Spencer at the ceremony commemorating its disaster. Other settlers came later, during the year 1829. In 1830 Ros- well H. Spencer, a devout Methodist, joined his brother, John W. Spencer, in the community. The 1831 Conference, which comprised the entire state, recog- [26 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS nized an appointment at Rock Island. In 1833 a little group of Methodists gathered at the home of John W. Spencer and formed a class. This early class consisted of eight members: Calvin Spencer and his wife Zerah Spencer, Sally Case, William Brasher and Jane Brasher, James and Caroline Thompson and John W. Spencer. The meetings of this class were held at the home of John W. Spencer, and much good was done by them among the early settlers. Calvin Spencer, being of deep religious convictions and a devout Methodist, was greatly interested in the formation and the welfare of this religious class. He was the father of John W. Spencer and Roswell H. Spencer. He died August 29th, 1839, at the home of Roswell H. Spencer, Pleasant Valley, Iowa, and is buried in the John W. Spencer lot at Chippiannock Cemetery, Rock Island, Illinois. In the minutes of 1834, Rock Island is included in the Galena mission, with Colin D. James as pastor and Hooper Crews as Su- perintendent. In 1835 it is included in the Galena mission, with W. Wigley as pastor and A. Brunson as Superintendent. In the year 1836, when Andrew Jackson was the President of the United States, and Joseph Duncan, Governor of Illinois, Vanda- lia, the state capital of Illinois, before there was any state organi- zation north and west of the Missouri line, when Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan were included in the Michigan Territory, and the Indian's war hoop still lingered on the prairie beyond, and the pioneer was still fear- ful of the Indians returning, a group of twenty-seven Metho- dists met December 6th, 1836, at the home of John W. Spen- cer in a log cabin made of hewn logs, situated at 7th Av- enue and 19th Street and or- ganized the First Methodist Episcopal church of Rock Is- land, Illinois. The members of the class shown in the record were Michael Hartzell, class leader, Jane Brazure, Pera Vandruff, Nancy Trick- ell, John Tindall, John Spencer, Elizabeth Sanford, Lucy Bardwell, [27] The first meeting place of Church — December 6th, 1836 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Ann Tindall, Nancy Hartzell, Eliza Spencer, John Sandford, Hanna Pendleton, John Tuttle, Mary Butler, Esther Morris, Abigal Cur- tis, Mary McLaughlin, John Metzgar, Elizabeth Vandruff, Amos Moore, Leah Brazure, William T. Brasure, Catherine Vandruff, Nancy Wells, Morgan Ferguson, Thomas Brittingham. This society of Methodists was carefully watched over and ten- derly cared for by Judge and Mrs. Spencer, as if it were a jewel placed in their hands and given them by God for safe-keeping. The doors of their Christian home were ever open to the ministers, cir- cuit riders and settlers alike, and great hospitality was shown around their cozy fireside. The power and influence of the early Methodist cannot be esti- mated, nor can it be said how much it will continue to exert on the coming generations in directing their minds in the proper channels. Theirs were Christian lives, with love and charity to all and malice to none, and the noble work of the Methodist pioneer will linger on through the coming years. The meetings of the Methodist society were held at the home of John W. Spencer, one of the organizers of the church, and whose home was the first place of public worship in Rock Island County, prior to the erection of the school house in Union Square (Spencer Square). The meetings were continued, held at the school until the erection in 1844 at the same location, the first church of the Metho- ^~#,- dists in Rock Island, Illinois. „. . „, , „ Henry Summers was the Pre- First Church Home J siding Elder from 1836 to 1839. The early history of Methodism in Davenport, Iowa, is closely connected with the work in Rock Island, Illinois, and Rockingham, Iowa, under the auspices of the Illinois Conference. In 1836 a Methodist society was formed in Rockingham. A class was formed consisting of eight members, with Ortha Davenport as leader. The Fvockingham circuit was formed in 1836 and was believed to be the third circuit in Iowa. Chauncey Hobart was sent to take charge of the work and his circuit covered a distance of 200 miles. Rocking- [28] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS ham was the most important town in the circuit, and during the first winter there were but two other appointments, one at a little town called Black Hawk, near the mouth of the Iowa river, and the other at the home of Roswell H. Spencer at Pleasant Valley, Iowa. In the year 1838 Norris Hobart was sent to take charge of the work, and in 1839 H. J. Brace was placed in charge, assisted by B. H. Cartwright, a brother of Peter Cartwright. The Methodist Church of Davenport was organized in that year. Roswell H. Spencer, a brother of John W. Spencer of Rock Island, Illinois, took a claim in Iowa in 1833, on which a part of the city of Davenport now stands. The claim was later sold to Antoine Le Claire. This was the first real estate transaction in Davenport, Iowa. In 1833 Roswell H. Spencer founded Pleasant Valley, Iowa, and in 1834 Calvin Spencer joined his son there. In about 1839 Ros- well H. Spencer built a new home in Pleasant Valley, on a high bluff overlooking the Mississippi river, which is still standing, a monu- ment to the pioneer day. Many Methodist meetings were held in this home, and the Methodists of Pleasant Valley often exchanged visits with the Methodists of Rock Island, Illinois. Thus the pioneer Spencer family, from the very beginning of the settlements in Rock Island, Illinois, Davenport, Iowa, and Pleas- ant Valley, Iowa, have been associated with the earliest church of Methodism and with the early history of this locality on both sides of the Mississippi river. From that early day on down through the century, has the name of Spencer remained upon the membership roll of the Rock Island Methodist Church. At the Jacksonville Conference in 1836 the Rock Island District was formed, which extended as far south as Canton, and west to Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, and included Fort Madison, Burlington and other points along the river. At the 1839 Conference held in Blooming- ton, this district was abandoned and it was placed in the Knoxville District. In 1840 the Rock River Conference was formed, and Rock Island was included. The Central Illinois Conference, to which Rock Island belongs, was organized in 1856, and until 1860 was known as the Peoria Conference. N. G. Berryman was the Presid- ing Elder from September 1839 to September 1840. John Clark was the Presiding Elder for the year ending 1841. Philip K. Hanna, Norris Hobart, Thomas Kirkpatrick and C. M. Wager were the cir- [29] 100 YEARS OF METHODISM cuit pastors. In 1841-1842, G. G. Worthington was the circuit pas- tor. For the first of these years S. H. Stocking was the Presiding Elder, and for the latter year, we were in the Iowa District, with B. E. Weed as Presiding Elder. Little groups of Methodists at this time were scattered here and there in the new community. All were working hard in organizing classes in Methodism, and all doing good work for the church. Out on Rock River were the parents of Michael Hartzell, and in Mo- line, the Wells family and John Hartzell and many more. In addi- tion could be found up and down the Mississippi river, a Methodist keeping open house for the cir- cuit preacher. The neighbors were welcome at this home, and often traveled miles to hear the gospel and join in the singing of the hymns of praise and thanksgiving. During the year 1843, when Andrew Coleman was the Cir- cuit Pastor, and J. T. Mitchell the Presiding Elder, the society having no home of its own, and as more Methodists had moved into the community, and the ex- pense of erecting a church could be better taken care of, it was decided to build one in Union Square (now Spencer Square). It was located on the north- west corner, built of brick and was forty feet wide and fifty feet long. The building consisted of two rooms, an audience room and basement. The entrance being directly from the outside by two doors reached by steps. A platform extended across the entire front of the building. The entrance to the basement was by a door on the west side and by a door under the stairs and platform. Ornamentation was lacking, the church being severely plain and cost $4,000.00. Plain board benches were in the audience room, some of which are in the present church. Candle dips with tin re- flectors first lighted the church, being replaced later by oil lamps. The dedication took place in 1844, — Isaac Searls being the pastor, [30] Second Church Home IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS and Hooper Crews the Presiding Elder. Methodists for miles around attended the dedication service. Proud and happy were the Rock Island Methodists, of this, their first church. The Methodist Society met at this church for eleven years, when it was replaced by a beautiful brick edifice located at 5th Avenue and 19th Street. The first brick church was later sold to the City of Rock Island for $1,500.00 and was finally torn down. On April the 3rd, 1842, the Rock Island Methodists attended the quarterly meeting held at Davenport, Iowa Territory. There being no bridge or steam ferry, the Methodists faced the great danger in crossing the Mississippi hiver in the ferry boat of that day. Flat bottomed boats and skiffs were used. The ferry boats were owned by Antoine Le Clarie. Captain John Wilson purchased the ferry and franchise from Antoine Le Claire in 1836, and new boats were built. Up until this time the ferry boat was summoned by calling across the river to the ferryman, but when Captain Wilson bought the ferry he introduced a new "ferry alarm". A large piece of triangular steel was hung and it was hit with a bar or club. When vigorously pounded it could be heard across the river. The ferryman would be aroused and he would bring the ferry across for the passenger. Captain Wilson, the famous ferryman of the early day, placed the steam ferry in use late in 1842. Regardless of the great danger in crossing the river, the Methodists managed in some way to get back and forth, and many love feasts and quarterly meetings were helgl with the Iowa Methodists. It was deemed a great privilege to as- semble at these meetings for prayer and song. The Rock Island Circuit, which included Moline, Hampton, af- terwards Cordova and Port Byron, continued until 1843, when the Conference made Rock Island a station and placed Andrew Coleman, the first pastor, and Lorenzo Whipple, the circuit pastor. They were followed by William B. Cooley in 1844, Robert Beattie in 1845, W. Palmer in 1846-47, ending with the pastorate of Thomas North in 1848, when Moline received her first pastor, Matthew Hanna, from the Conference in 1849. Milan, Illinois, received her first pas- tor in 1850. In 1855-1856, the church began to feel the prosperity in Rock Island and the neighboring towns. In 1854 the first railroad slowly passed through Rock Island. In 1856 the first train crossed the first r 3i l 100 YEARS OF METHODISM bridge that spanned the Mississippi river here, which was a quarter of a mile above the present bridge. The steamboats brought daily to Rock Island many people that had been attracted here by the fer- tile soil and other inducements, and who had decided to make this location their home. The Methodists, due to the good times, decided to build a larger and more comfortable church, and in 1854 a new brick church was started at the corner of 5th Avenue and 19th Street, under the pas- torate of Rev. William Tasker, and was finished under the pastorate of S. G. J. Worthington. The dedication took place April 20th, 1856, the Rev. Jesse Bolles of the Rock Island Conference presiding. The church cost $20,000.00. Judge John W. Spencer superintended the brick and stone work and the placing of the timbers. The build- ing became a monument to his love for God's house. The generosity of Judge John W. Spencer and Captain Thomas J. Robinson made it possible for the church to be clear of debt at the dedication. In 1869 a beautiful soft toned Holbrook bell was placed in the belfry of the church at the cost of $1,200.00. It still swings in the belfry of the present church, calling the faithful to service. In 1870-1871 an alcove was added to the rear of the pulpit and the church repainted and repaired. A new pipe organ was purchased. Many gifts were received at this time by the church ; among them were five lovely walnut chairs for the pulpit and altar from Mrs. John W. Spencer, which are still in use in the present church, a beau- tiful silver communion service from Mrs. T. J. Robinson, the brus- sels carpet for the pulpit, a gift of Mrs. M. B. Hays, and a solid walnut marble top table, still in use in the church, from Mrs. W. H. Hunter. The reopening sermon was preached by Dr. E. O. Haven in a very scholarly manner. The church was again frescoed and repaired under the pastorate of Rev. Palmer, and when Rev. J. S. McCord was the pastor, cathe- dral glass was placed in the windows, the church repainted the au- dience room recarpeted and cushions for the seats furnished. This brick church was the home of the Methodists until the pres- ent church, a beautiful stone structure, was erected at the same loca- tion. The cornerstone of the church was laid September 24th, 1889. The church was dedicated October 26th, 1890, under the pastorate of Rev. G. W. Gue. The building cost around $45,000.00. A beauti- ful pipe organ was presented to the new church by Captain Thomas r 32 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS J. Robinson. Three Tiffany memorial windows were given by Mrs. Julia Spencer Robinson, William Anson Spencer, and Edward W. Spencer, in loving memory of their father and mother, John W. and Eliza Spencer. Another lovely window was given by Mr. Edward D. Sweeney in memory of his wife, Mrs. Harriet Sweeney. A later gift, a beautiful white Italian marble baptismal fountain, was given by Mrs. E. M. Sala in memory of her husband, Dr. E. M. Sala. The present church has been enlarged and beautified, and is now one of the largest and finest in the Conference. Religious services of today are held in such magnificent churches and cathedrals that it is hard to realize the difference in the present worship places and those of the pioneer day. Many meetings and conferences of great importance to the church at large have been held in the Rock Island church. The pulpit has been filled by scholarly and brilliant pastors and the congregation has grown under the guidance of these Christian men, until it is one of the largest in the community. All organizations of the church have helped materially in its steady progress and growth. Revivals have been held in the church, which have brought sunshine and peace to many souls. Sociables, lawn parties, fairs, suppers, and enter- tainments have helped financially in its great work. The doors of the church have been open to many large gather- ings, both religious and civic, which have meant much to the com- munity. It has established other churches of the Methodist faith in the city, and has contributed men that have held high offices in the church at large and in the state. Many of the young men of the church have gone forth to war to fight for liberty and justice in this country and in the foreign fields. The Rock Island church has adhered to the creed and doctrine of the great Methodist Church, which has had much to do with its prosperity and extraordinary growth of membership. So, as our beloved church enters upon the second century of its existence, may God's mercy and love continue to rest upon it as it has in the past ! May it fulfill its mission and grow steadily upward and onward upon the solid foundation on which it has been placed by the early Methodists whose lives were spent in piety and prayer, and who had the love of God in their hearts and placed spiritual be- fore material things, and who have left the church a great heritage and imperishable record. [33] 100 YEARS OF METHODISM h5 34] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Churches and Parsonages b 7 h. k. Walker AS I have been assigned churches and parson- ages as my subject for this history of our Church since its inception one hundred years ago, and not having been connected with it or living in the City that long, I will of necessity have to rely on the records which we believe are quite accu- rate as they were recorded, in a large meausure, by our own Church folks and handed down to us in the same manner we are trying to record and hand down to those who shall follow us. The records show that, while the first class of which we have any record was organized December 6, 1836, the first Church was not completed until 1844; but services were held in a brick school house built in Spencer Square about the same time the class was or- ganized, and as before stated, the first Church was finished in 1844 with Rev. Isaac Searls as pastor. It was a brick building located in the northwest corner of Spencer Square and cost about $4,000.00. It was dedicated in December of the year of its completion and re- mained the home of the Church for eleven years until the erection of a larger Church on the site of our present Church at 19th Street and 5th Avenue. Afterward the old Church was sold to the City for $1,500.00 and torn down. During the pastorate of Rev. G. L. S. Stuff, 1850-1851, the first parsonage was built, which was a brick building located just north of the present home of Mrs. R. W. Van Trump, 19th Street and 5th Avenue, and which lot she now owns and has converted into a lawn of beautiful flowers, shrubs, grass and trees. This brick build- ing remained a parsonage until the year 1856 when a larger and more beautiful parsonage was built on the Church property at 19th Street and 5th Avenue and the old brick parsonage was purchased by Capt. T. J. Robinson for a home, where he lived ten years. The second Church was started under Rev. Win. Tasker and fin- ished in 1855, Rev. S. G. J. Worthington being pastor at the time of [35 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM its completion. However, it was not dedicated until the following April 2. In 1866 the lot west of the Church was purchased and a deed obtained, but by some oversight the title to the lot on which the Church stood was not obtained until May 3, 1875. The Church property at that time was valued at $20,000.00. The Holbrook bell, which still serves the Church, was purchased in 1869 at a cost of $1,200.00 and Mr. C. B. Knox was largely in- strumental in its purchase and delighted in it. In 1870 to 1877 during the pastorate of the Rev. J. H. Rhea, the Church was thoroughly repaired and an alcove built in the rear of the pulpit for the occu- pancy of the new organ, the whole expense being about $8,500.00. The lot of the Ninth Street Church was purchased and the build- ing erected in 1874 and 1875, and the society organized in 1876. This drew about fifty members from our Church and was under the supervision of the First M. E. for a number of years, then passed into other hands. The Church was again frescoed and thoroughly repaired under the pastorate of Rev. Palmer, 1877-1879. Under the pastorate of Rev. McCord, 1880-1882, cathedral glass was put in the windows and the Church repaired, and the ladies provided a complete outfit of cushions for the seats and re-carpeted the audience room. On September 24, 1889, the corner-stone for the new church was laid — this was our third and our present Church — and the Church was dedicated October 26, 1890, Rev. Gue being pastor at that time. The cost of the property was about $45,000.00. After about eight years, and near the close of the pastorate of Rev. F. W. Merrill, Capt. T. J. Robinson made a donation of a new pipe organ, which necessitated quite a change in the auditorium which, together with other improvements cost about $7,000.00. About five years after the installation of the new organ, while Rev. O. C. McCulloch was pastor, a new parsonage was built on the Church lot where the former parsonage stood, at a cost of $4,000.00, where it remained until 1912 or 1913, when it was moved to the lot west of the Church and has continued to be the parsonage home until the present time. The lot for this parsonage was purchased in 1906. During the pastorate of Rev. T. E. Newland, 1910-1913, he, with many of the members of the Church, became vitally interested [36] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS in an annex to the Church, which was much needed for Sunday School work. The result was the moving of the parsonage to the lot west of the Church and an annex built to the Church on the south, which has proven its great value during the twenty-and-more years since its erection. The Sunday School auditorium, the dining room and kitchen, together with all the classrooms, are a great asset to our Church. While it was not completed when the Bishop called Brother Newland into his cabinet as presiding elder, yet to him goes the credit for our splendid annex. The cost of this improvement was about $35,000.00. During the years 1935 and 1936, under the pastorate of Rev. E. J. Campbell, the entire Church plant, including the annex, was re-roofed, re-decorated ; and the parsonage painted ; and the entire auditorium, including all rooms in the rear of the auditorium, car- peted ; and the basement under the Junior Department room cement- ed and painted ; which, altogether, was the most extensive improve- ments made to the Church property for many, many years. As our Church also entertained the Annual Conference, we shall long re- member 1936 as one of the great years. The 100th year closes with Brother Campbell as one of our out- standing pastors in the pulpit and Mrs. Campbell one of the most delightful and efficient mistresses of the parsonage. In closing, I find the best of evidence that all through the one hundred years of Methodism our Church has had unusual leadership in both preachers and laymen, and in both building and care of the Church and parsonage properties has set a high standard for future years. Bless the four corners of this house, and be the lintel blest; And bless the hearth, and bless the board, and bless each place of rest. And bless the door that opens wide to stranger, as to kin; And bless each crystal window-pane that lets the starlight in; And bless the: roof-tree overhead, and ever)' sturdy wall. The peace of man, the peace of God, the peace of love on all. 37 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Board of Trustees -- 1936 *C. A. Walker H. K. Walker *W. H. Mathers President L. R. Mace Lynn H. Ewing F. E. Sudlow C. H. Langman J. F. Witter Dr. E. Bradford Dr. J. T. Taylor M. T. Stevens *Deceased during this publication. 38 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Ministers of the Church By Mrs. William H. Mathers A REVIEW of the ministry of the First Meth- dist Episcopal Church of Rock Island will take us back more than the century which we cele- brate at this time. For much of the early history we are indebt- ed to Mr. Edward D. Sweeney, who compiled the events of the first fifty years, and to Mr. J. L. Freeman, who continued that history for another twenty-five years. In 1829 a local preacher, by the name of John Kinny, delivered the first remembered sermon to be preached within the limits of Rock Island. In 1831 Rock Island was first mentioned as an appointment, the Conference comprising the entire state of Illinois at that time. The church was then classed as a mission, included in Quincy District, with Philip D. Cordier, pastor, and the great Peter Cart- wright, Presiding Elder. It remained a mission until 1836. In 1832 Rock Island was a part of Galena Mission, and John T. Mitchell was the pastor, and Peter Cartwright, Presiding Elder. In 1833 Asa McMurtry served as the pastor and Peter Cart- wright still remained the Presiding Elder. In 1834 Colin D. James became its pastor and Hooper Crewes the Presiding Elder. In 1835 the pastor was W. Wigley, A. Brunson, Presiding Elder. The first class of which we have accurate record was organized December 6, 1836, and we date our present organization from that time. Philip K. Hanna became pastor of the newly organized church, and that wonderful old pioneer, Henry Summers, was the Presid- ing Elder. What a heritage this church has, with her foundation laid by such men as Peter Cartwright, Hooper Crewes, John Chandler, Henry [391 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Summers, Richard Haney, W. H. Hunter and other grand old men of the pioneer days ! Stars of the first magnitude. These men were aggressive, resourceful, painstaking leaders. Their sermons, preeminently spiritual, were delivered with elo- quence and force. We know all too little of these pioneers. Someone has called them "spiritual pathfinders" of the West and Middle West. Rugged of body, devout of soul, they went about singing, pray- ing and exhorting and blazing a path for us to follow. It has been said that many of them were born generals and statesmen and might have won high seats in the government. Hundreds of these men might have made fortunes for themselves by following the medical or legal profession, but they chose the path of Christian service, ded- icating their lives and talents to God that they might carry the gos- pel of life everlasting to the people. Those early pioneer preachers played no small part in shaping policies of government. It was Richard Haney who drafted a reso- lution asking President Lincoln to free the slaves in this country, and by adopting this resolution, the Central Illinois Conference was the first ecclesiastical body praying the president to lift the burden of bondage from the black man. Soon after the adoption of this resolution came the President's Proclamation. What influence the resolution had we do not know. These pioneer preachers braved dangers, faced hardships, sacri- ficed comforts without thought of self. Eighty years ago our Rock Island Church rated as one of the best paying churches in Central Illinois Conference, the salary at that time being $650.00. The salary of the Presiding Elder was $506.00. In 1843 Rock Island was made a station, Andrew Cole- man pastor. During the pastorate of Isaac Searles in 1844 the first church building was finished. During these hectic times such stalwart men as Freeborn Haney, a brother of Richard, Zadock Hall, J. O. Gilbert and G. L. Stuff were pastors who were carefully laying the foundation for this pres- ent great church. They were leaders of their day and their works do follow them. [40] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS The years of 1854-1856 were the beginning of an era of pros- perity for Rock Island and her sister cities. The church began to feel the effect of an increasing prosperity and wisely planned a comfortable place of worship. It was during the pastorate of the Rev. William Tasker that the building was begun. The Rev. Mr. Tasker was an excellent preacher and pastor — a man who accomplished much. The building was finished under the pastorate of Rev. S. G. J. Worthington, a godly man greatly interested in higher education, a trustee of Northwestern University, and a Methodist preacher for over forty years. Then followed J. W. Flowers, one of the great orators and pop- ular preachers of his day. Dr. William H. Hunter next served the church. Dr. Hunter was majestic in appearance, fully six feet in height. It is said that in repose on the conference floor or in the pulpit he looked like a sold- ier standing "at attention". Nine times he was a delegate to General Conference. As a leader he was wise and sagacious, as a debator he had few superiors. He was a great orator, a noble hearted man. Mrs. Hunter's devo- tion to her chosen work was equal to any sacrifice or labor, and it is said that she so conducted the affairs of her home that it at once impressed one as a near approach to a divine ideal in home life. John P. Brooks followed Dr. Hunter. He too was a scholarly man. Quiet, efficient and devoted to his work. William P. Graves came next, a most practical and persistent man. L. P. Kent followed, and for three years worked unceasingly for the upbuilding of the church. He brought many men and women into its fold. The first annual conference ever to be held in Rock Island was held during his first year as pastor. Then came Richard Haney, one of the grand old men of Illinois Methodism. His ready command of language, his brilliant imagina- tion, his almost faultless rhetoric, made him a popular favorite in the pulpit. A great Bible student and reader of the best in literature, his sermons were at once instructive, pleasing. Open-hearted, frank, sympathetic, both old and young were irresistibly drawn to him. r 4i i 100 YEARS OF METHODISM J. H. Rhea followed this pastorate. A preacher bold in thought and expression, eloquent, and with heart and feeling as young as a child's. Next came C. C. Knowlton, always faithful and full of devotion to the tasks before him. At the end of two years he was followed by W. C. Knapp, unobtrusive, earnest and painstaking. Then H. M. Laney was the pastor. Inimitable in style and never wanting in good matter. He was followed by George R. Palmer, a son-in-law of Richard Haney. Dr. Palmer was a great-hearted man, brilliant, witty and one of the popular orators of the conference, counting his friends among the rich and the poor. While in Rock Island a tiny son died and is today buried in our cemetery. Dr. Palmer was pastor for three years and was followed by J. S. McCord, called the young Timothy of the pulpit. He was the idol of the church and of everyone who heard him. He excelled in pas- toral work. R. G. Pearce was next sent to Rock Island. Here again was a man belonging to the old school of orators, an eloquent, logical, con- vincing preacher. Added to all this were social graces of high order, which made his pastoral work unsurpassed. After his retirement from the active ministry he made his home in Rock Island and at once became the wise counselor, capable assist- ant and co-laborer of the men who served the church as pastor. During his pastorate the second annual conference was held in Rock Island. Dr. Pearce was especially gifted in prayer. Mrs. Pearce, a radiant soul, was greatly interested in the children and in every phase of church work. Her home was made beautiful with Christian hospitality. George Jewell Luckey followed this pastorate. Dr. Luckey was always a perfect gentleman, courteous, friendly and very reverent, especially in the house of God. His was a deep and uneffected piety. A soldier in the Civil War, he fought in the battle of Shiloh, and having lain all night on the battle field, contracted the disease that finally caused his death. He often said he had to go through life like a winged bird. A man of courage, he was loved and honored by his people. [42] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS During Dr. Luckey's pastorate was held the semi-centennial of this church. George W. Gue was the next pastor. He was known as a church builder and excelled as an administrator. He was a splendid leader, and the church building in which we now worship still remains a monument to his wise planning. After a term of four years, which in those days was a long stay for a pastor, F. W. Merrell was sent to Rock Island. He came a comparative stranger but he at once set about to build up the church membership. This was accomplished, and while he was here a fine new pipe organ was added to the attractiveness of the new church. The Rev. Merrell established a record of remaining as pastor for five years, the longest term that anyone had ever served here. Charles O. McCulloch was then sent to Rock Island and remained for five years. He was a most capable man, a strong preacher and a splendid Bible student. The present parsonage is a monument to his efforts. At the close of his pastorate Reuben B. Williams became the pastor for the next nine years. We quote from Mr. Freeman's article. "As a preacher he rates high for his eloquence and clear, logical method of present- ing the truth." His was an understanding heart and his studious habits, keen sense of humor and remarkable conversational gifts combined with an unusual versatility endeared him to all classes and groups of the community and was used to the great advancement of the Church. Especially interested in young people's work, it was a source of joy to him that during his pastorate, four bright young people went out from the Epworth League into great fields of Christian service. They were Miss Daisy Wood, who went to India as a missionary, Miss Maude Luckey, who went to Springfield, Mo., to take charge of a Home Missionary Hospital, Miss Alice Thompson, who took a Deaconess training course, and Mr. Raymond C. Ricker, who went to China as a missionary. These nine years were years of plenty in the land and the church felt its effect. During seven years of this time the Epworth League employed a Deaconess, Miss Mamie Dodge Cook, who served most efficiently as an assistant to the pastor. The greatest ecclesiastical event ever to be held in this church [43 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM was the semi-annual meeting of the Board of Bishops. At that time Rock Island First Church was honored by having as her guests for a week these men : Bishops Charles H. Fowler, John W. Hamilton, FLarl Cranston, Cyrus D. Foss, Willard F. Mallalieu, Daniel A. Goodsell, Stephen M. Merrill, James N. Fitzgerald, Edward G. Andrews, Charles C. McCabe, Isaac W. Joyce and John M. Walden, names which will be immortal in the history of the church. The annual conference convened here in 1907. Mrs. Williams delighted in serving the people and the parsonage home was ever open for the enjoyment of friends. A great sadness came to the parsonage in the death of a daughter, Eva, a lovely girl just gradu- ated from Augustana College. During these years the lot where the parsonage now stands was purchased with a view to enlarging the Sunday School rooms. In 1910 Thomas E. Newland followed as pastor. Earnest, pains- taking and aggressive, he at once saw the need for more Sunday School room, and set about the task of laying plans for a new annex. After an endless amount of work the project was launched and the annex which we now enjoy remains a monument to his labors. Dr. Newland was fortunate in having an excellent "helpmeet", who was ready to share the work. By her cheerfulness and Christian virtues she endeared herself to the people. She made use of her talents especially in teaching a large Bible Class, the Harriet Henderson Memorial class, and also in the work of the Home Missionary Society. It was during these years that the Diamond Jubilee of the church was held. All departments of the church were quickened by their stay of four years. Then followed Orvis T. Dwinell, a man of untiring energy and abiding faith unusually affable and a capable administrator, he gave himself to the work untiringly, toiling ceaselessly. Careful as to details, his plans were successfully carried out, and when the Annex was ready for dedication the funds were largely provided for. His was a kindly spirit, devoid of criticism or the harsh word, rather using a Christian diplomacy. Mrs. Dwinell was also a splendid helper. Having much executive ability her services extended to all departments of the work though she was especially helpful in the Home Missionary Society. [44] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS At the end of two years, Dr. Dwinell was drafted to take over the Superintendency of the Deaconess Home and Hospital at Peoria. Samuel Van Pelt followed him. In personal appearance com- manding, erect of posture and handsome of feature, he commanded attention wherever he went. Dr. Van Pelt was a refined, Christian gentleman and brought honors to the church he served. He was a scholar and a thinker of more than ordinary ability. His sermons were always carefully prepared and highly instructive. Joseph A. Chapman came after Dr. Van Pelt. Coming to this church in the vigor of manhood he assumed a leadership which con- tinued for nine years. An excellent preacher and public speaker, he became a popular pastor. His talents were recognized by civic groups and bodies, and he was in constant demand for talks and lectures. During his pastorate the annual conference was again entertained by this church. Noting with concern the number of deaths in families of wealth and influence, among the membership, he set about the task of look- ing to an endowment fund for the church. Much of the help we now receive from this source came about through his efforts while he was pastor here. Keenly interested in his fellow-men he was ever solicitous for the best interests of his people. He had a great passion for service and was happy when doing something for the Kingdom of God. He was a dearly loved pastor, neglecting no one. To follow a man such as Dr. Chapman required much, but again Rock Island First Methodist Church was fortunate in having Edwin G. Sand- meyer appointed the pastor. He proved to be a fine spiritual man, diplomatic, with rare social gifts. A splendid organizer, his especial concern was for young people, though every department of the church received his best efforts. Mrs. Sandmeyer was a wise, faithful, cheerful assistant, a charm- ing woman loved and admired by everyone. And now we have reached the last of this glorious company of ministers. Ernest J. Campbell entered upon the tasks before him with vigor and understanding. A fine speaker, his talents are in constant de- mand, but no department of the church is overlooked. Everything he does bears the imprint of careful, orderly planning. Painstaking r 45 ] 100 YEARS OF METHODISM attention to every detail of the responsibilities committed to his care prove him to be a leader of rare ability. As we enjoy the beauty of this present church building and know that it took great faith and courage to accomplish what has been done in so short a time, we can only say that he and his charming young wife, a helpmeet in every sense of the word, have the love and loyalty of an undivided church. The splendid way in which he planned for the entertainment of the great Illinois Conference, just closed, mark him a man of great executive ability and tireless energy. The one hundred years of accomplishment for the church was molded largely by these men whose names we recall with such pride and love. They have laid foundations deep and strong, and while most of them are here no longer, "their names are written in heaven and the Book of Life their shining record tells." Faith of our fathers! we will strive to win all nations unto thee, And through the truth that comes from God mankind shall then be truly free. Faith of our fathers, holy faith! we will be true to thee till death. Faith of our fathers! we will love both friend and foe in all our strife, And preach thee, too, as love knows how by kindly words and virtuous life. Faith of our fathers, holy faith! we will be true to thee till death. 46 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS The Ladies Aid Society By Mrs. J. 0. Van Galder IT was not until 1843 when plans were being made by the church board of the Methodist body to build a church that the ladies of Rock Island, realizing a church is stronger with an active woman's society and knowing they could give needed financial help, issued notices for a meeting to organize such a society. On December 22, at the home of Mrs. William Hurst, the Ladies Sewing Society was formed with Mrs. Eliza Spencer, president, and Mrs. J. Watts, secretary, after a comprehensive constitution and and by-laws were adopted. The following ladies signed the consti- tution : Rebecca Blythe Margaret Bowling Mary Ann Gregg Eliza J. Cropper Margaret Case Margaret Frizzel Julia Watts Arinda Lee Maria Thompson Asenith Norris Ann Turner Martha Cropper Jane Marber Eliza Spencer L. M. Smith Ann M. Hurst Sarah J. Crist Deborah Lee Mary Mille." Lydia Van Zant Airs. M. A. Yates Pherba Searles Mrs. Bollman Mrs. Stephens Elizabeth Shearer Mary Ann Rugh Elizabeth Rugh Harriet Jackson Eliza Ferguson P. Herrith Rhoda Webster Hannah Norris Ann Eliza Early Sarah R. Young Mary J. Jackson Maria Doty Mrs. Fullerton Parmelia Frizzel Susan Bennet Mrs. Kinney Mrs. Biddison Cynthia A. Frizzell Mrs. Calkins Sophronia Hadsell Mrs. Humbardt To this membership of forty-five women was added the names of forty men who wished to give their support and encouragement to the new enterprise and many attended the meetings which were held at the homes of the members. Annual dues for the women were twenty-five cents, but the men were assessed fifty cents. A fine of six and one-half cents was paid by the women if absent from the meetings. The Female Benevolent Society was invited to join them but declined the invitation on the grounds that the members were not willing to lay aside the interest of their society for any other. The Ladies Sewing Society chose as its special work the fur- 47 100 YEARS OF METHODISM nishing of the new church and raised money by the various methods that only women know how to use. It has been said that "women love pioneering", and these resolute women proved themselves re- sourceful pioneers, making shirts, plain dresses, aprons and muslin underwear, knitting socks, piecing patchwork and quilting quilts were the ways used in raising money. At this early date, science and machinery had not given the homes the many time-saving appli- ances that we have today and their work could be truthfully labeled "home-made". The first year's returns including work, fines, dues, donations and work done gratuitously netted the society $81.75. Bills were paid, including fifteen dollars for lumber used in the new church and $25.00 was put out at interest. Due to inclemency of weather, illness in the families of the mem- bers and other conditions, meetings were held very irregularly dur- ing 1845. The women ready to give their assistance at all times, adjourned Sine Die on December 11 to be convened at the call of the president. March 11, 1847, a few ladies met and decided to revive the so- ciety. Mrs. W. T. Norris was elected president, meetings were held at the homes of the members and sewing, knitting and quilting in- creased the funds of the treasury. Later the church officials voted to build a parsonage for the pastor. The women, always quick to respond to a call for help, planned a very successful supper and en- tertainment held at the Rock Island House and $100 was added to the Parsonage fund. The ladies continued their efforts to secure new members and more work, and their records show that regalias were made for the I. O. O. F. lodge, coats and pants and all kinds of plain sewing done. It is said that the pastor wore with pride one of their tailored suits, which was very skillfully made. Late in 1848 Mrs. J. O. Gil- bert became president. There are no records of any organization for a number of years, but doubtless the women were interested in all plans for advancing the cause of the church and keeping the parsonage furnished and re- paired. The women whose privilege it was to live and work during this important period of the church history and to share in its strug- gles and successes are only names to the present members, but it is to their loyalty, work and prayers, and their courage to begin the next year's work under great difficulties that we owe a debt of gratitude. [48] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS A called meeting was held on January 5, 1877, and the Indies Sewing Society of the Fifth Avenue M. E. Church was organized with thirty-five members. Mrs. J. W. Stark was elected president and a constitution and by-laws, similar to the one of 1843 was adopted. It was a busy, interesting year both socially and finan- cially. One thing worthy of mention was the eager, whole-hearted way in which they started every new project and the zeal and co- operation with which they carried it through to success. A series of tea-parties was planned to be open to all friends of the church. By motion the menu was limited to biscuits, one kind of cake, meat, pickles and sauce and tea or coffee. "Any lady violating this rule will be fined five dollars". The teas proved very successful, as the proceeds increased the treasury and the social evenings brought the church people together, in closer fellowship. As a fitting close to a prosperous year, the society gave a dinner on Thanksgiving Day in the parlors of the church, the profits, $221, was used for repairs on the parsonage to make it more livable and attractive. Mrs. J. W. Stark was re-elected president, and during her two years of office nearly $1,000 was paid for parsonage improvements. At this time the society voted to give the mite box of the Woman's Foreign Mis- sionary Society a place at the meetings. Even small contributions to this worthy cause were requested. Mrs. William Jackson was president for 1879. Under her effec- tive guidance and enthusiasm the society carried on its customary work with many work meetings showing good financial results. A moonlight excursion on the river was a social event. Mrs. E. D. Sweeney served the society as president for the years 1880-81. The work meetings were continued and tying comforters, embroidering and braiding pillow and sheet shams, tucking, over- casting, quilting, making aprons and dresses kept the fingers of the women very busy. The society adjourned for the summer months, the members paying the five cents non-attendance fines during this interval. The society reorganized in May, 1882, with Mrs. J. D. Taylor as president for two years. Monthly meetings were held at the homes, the members bringing their own work and a simple lunch of coffee, sandwiches, pickles and cake were served. A committee of nine was appointed to visit each woman of the congregation in the interest of the church. These years were busy ones. Three hund- [49] 100 YEARS OF METHODISM red dollars were paid for repairing and making new cushions for the church seats and $500 for a new carpet. In 1884 the society dis- banded, closing out all stock of materials on hand. In 1885 the society reorganized and elected Mrs. J. W. Stark president. The outstanding event of this year was the "Flag and Paper Festival" held at the Rock Island Rink in September for two evenings. A very interesting exhibit was the display of India curios, loaned by Rev. and Mrs. J. A. Northup. The proceeds of $265 helped greatly to bring the yearly receipts to $458. On one very stormy wintry day thirteen ladies came in sleighs to attend the meet- ing and enjoyed the afternoon despite the cold and snow. Mrs. T. J. Robinson was the next president in 1886. The name of the society was changed to the Ladies Social Union, which was considered more appropriate as less work and sewing were done and more effort made to develop the social life of the church. A Rain- bow social and supper was served and a Fair and supper in the church parlors with net proceeds of $107 were two profitable events. The treasurer reported forty-nine dollars on hand and this amount. by unanimous vote, was given to the church treasurer to be applied on the musicians' salaries. Under the leadership of Mrs. H. C. Cleaveland, president, elected in 1887, the Ladies Social Union was divided into six divisions with a Tea held every six months. The most praised and profitable event of this year was an evening Euterpean entertainment given at the Rock Island Rink, September 9. The ladies of the First Methodist church, famous for their novel and very successful entertainments, surpassed all other affairs on this evening. The program was in three parts and an orchestra entertained between divisions. A fan drill with forty young girls taking part, piano and vocal duets, the Humaniphone with seven young ladies representing the musical al- phabet, tambourine band of twelve girls, Fairy song put on by twenty-four girls and a Burlesque band of eight excellent musicians, directed by W. B. Mclntyre, filled the evening with a program so amusing and varied that the audience asked to have it repeated the next night, but it was impossible to do so. Mesdames C. L. Walker, J. F. Robinson, Charles Stoddard, J. M. Barth and the Misses Philp and Miss Battles were the originators and directors of this unique program. Tempting refreshments of homemade candy, ice cream, fancy fruits and lemonade served from a well, were sold. More than r so i IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS 1000 persons attended, so a satisfactory patronage was given the at- tractive tables and booths. Many of the one hundred girls who were fairies, musical notes and star performers on this night are women, active now as their parents were then in advancing the wel- fare of the church and Ladies Aid. A payment of $200 was made on its pledge to the church debt, and later $80 was added to this amount. Another unusual evening, very much enjoyed was a Rail- road Women's social given at the church. One of the purchases this year was a new heating stove for the parlor of the parsonage. Mrs. H. C. Cleaveland was re-elected in 1888 and served the so- ciety as president until 1891. The two most successful events of the summer were a "District School of Fifty Years Ago" given at the. Rink, and a Calendar social at the church parlors. On December 11, 1888, a special meeting of all the women of the church and con- gregation was called to consider ways and means of raising the pledge of $2,000 which the society had made toward building and furnish- ing the new church. It was voted to meet every week for sewing and quilting, and that the society change its name again to the Ladies Sewing Society. Plans also were made to hold a Fair and Bazaar for six days in May, 1889, at the Rock Island Rink for the benefit of this project. Committees were appointed and every one worked. Shut-ins, unable to attend work meetings and little children sewed carpet rags for the rugs that were sold, and added many dollars to the treasury. This was the largest and most successful enterprise ever undertaken by the church. Every day had its special attractions and committees of arrangement. Donations from merchants and industries were made — a farm wagon, bedroom suite, baby carriage, silver tea set, cooking range, agricultural implements and a phaeton were on exhibition and sold at auction. An autograph quilt made of satin and plush with over one hundred names of representative men and women of United States, (among them President and Mrs. Harrison), embroidered in colored silk by the women was on dis- play. A baby show, public wedding, old soldiers' reunion, a concert given by a chorus of one hundred voices and a May-pole drill were a few of the entertainment attractions. Supper was served each even- ing and this great venture was closed Saturday evening with a work- ingmen's reunion and pastor's reception. The proceeds were $2,100, and $2,000 was loaned to the bank to be paid to the building com- mittee in quarterly installments. The interest to be kept as a sepa- [511 100 YEARS OF METHODISM rate fund and used for buying a carpet for the auditorium of the new church. The pews were removed and a farewell supper was given in the audience room of the old church. Work was suspended for the summer. At a later meeting the ladies objected to building a barn and a wash house for the parson- age, but did put on a new roof, repaired chimneys and walks. The cushions of the church seats were given to the German M. E. Church. The society voted to meet every week for work, and pay a fine of five cents when not present. Teas and evening socials were very popular and made a great addition to the social life of the church. The building committee reported that after all subscription pledges were paid there would be $3,000 more to be raised before the church could be dedicated free from debt. The women added $1,500 to their former pledge and courageously began the task of raising this sum. Another May Festival was planned to be held at the Rink five days, beginning April 29. Preparations progressed rapidly, commit- tees were appointed and made plans for another great Fair. Season tickets were sold, the young ladies made fancy work, dressed dolls and every woman had a part in making this a happy success. Eight booths, beautifully and appropriately decorated were arranged around the sides of the room where fancy work, dolls, glassware, aprons and rag rugs were displayed for sale, ice cream and lemon- ade served to the many visitors. The stage setting was professional and each evening an entertainment was given. "Crowning the Queen" was an amusing play ; "The Dairymaids Supper", a cantata, with the milk maids and dairymen carrying milk stools and giving a fine drill, which received prolonged applause, and was repeated on Saturday night. One evening the special feature was "Cradle Songs of Many Nations". Twelve ladies were appropriately cos- tumed to represent the nation whose lullaby she sang to the baby in her arms. A humorous character sketch "A Pioneer Pedagogue" and an operetta "An Evening in the Garden" were both well staged and played. "The Grand Concert" attracted many music lovers. This evening entertainment was given by an orchestra of ten pieces, the choir from a Davenport church, piano numbers and vocal solos and duets. Supper was served every evening and a chicken-pie noon dinner attracted the business men on Saturday. Everyone was repaid for the months of planning and work when a report was given that the May Festival had netted $1,239. [52] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS The ladies, after consulting the building committee, voted to use part of their subscription to buy a carpet for the auditorium of the new church. Samples were shown, colors and grades discussed, and 1,200 yards of heavy ingrain carpet was purchased and laid by the society. Not content unless doing more than pledged, the society voted to tile the halls of the church and purchase a pulpit, after all other obligations had been met. The social event of the Fall was the first supper and sociable held in the new church is October. Fancy work and rag rugs were sold, teas and work meetings held. A New Year's dinner at the church was a social and financial success. Plans were soon made for the third Fair held at the Rink for six days in May, 1891, which far excelled those of former years. The seven booths, representing different countries, were gaily decorated. Japan, showing Japanese novelties and articles, Italian flower booth displaying all kinds of flowers, natural and artificial, America in red, white and blue where lemonade was served, Ireland, selling all kinds of beautiful needle- work, Swiss, devoted to things good to eat, Germany, selling hand painted bricks from the old church, aprons and fancy bags and Spain where ice cream was served to the public. Entertaining pro- grams were given both afternoon and evening and supper served at night. The baby show had thirty adorable claimants for the prizes of a gold watch and a baby carriage. Special attractions consisted of a Dragon Fly day, March and Songs of the Harvesters, Jubilee Day at the Old Plantation, Fancy Dress carnival. Railroad day when a special supper was served, musical recitals and Flag day when a beautiful silk flag given by Morris Rosenfield was presented to the church. Mrs. Cleaveland, president, publicly thanked all who had helped to make this festival a great success. Mrs. C. L. Walker was elected president in 1891. No records are available, but the treasurer's report tells of teas, sociables, a New Year's dinner at the church, work meeting when comforters were tied, quilting done, napkins and tablecloths hemmed, fines paid, a Masonic banquet served, aprons made and the parsonage deco- rated and repaired. The women were as interested and busy as ever, earning $286. In 1892 Mrs. G. W. Battles served as president. The society continued its weekly meetings, serving several suppers to outside organizations, collecting dues and fines, decorating the church at [53] 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Easter, purchasing a piano for the Sunday School room and meet- ing other expenses. Cleaning the church was one worthy thing ac- complished. The society was divided and each division responsi- ble for the thorough cleaning of some part of the church, those not working to give money. All corners and closet were cleaned, the pews washed, and spring cleaning was reported as ''royally done". Ninety-six women earned and contributed one dollar at an Exper- ience social. Mrs. William McGill, elected president in May, 1893, later re- signed and Mrs. J. D. Taylor was selected to fill that position. The society met in the church parlors every Friday afternoon at two o'clock, worked until four when a business meeting was held and light refreshments served. The annual dues were twenty-five cents and fines were suspended. The women, not content to work only for the church, planned a Fair, the proceeds of which were given to the Augustana University Association. Furnishings for the Y. M. C. A. reading room were purchased and the returns from one tea were given to charity. Fancy work, money, and the "Society's comforter" to the value of forty-nine dollars were given to the Woman's Relief Corps for its Fair, the proceeds of which were used in relief work. One special work for this year was buying new, commodious bookcases, a rug and redecorating the walls of the pastor's study. Mrs. J. D. Taylor was elected president in 1894. At the first meeting in September the question "What object shall we work for this year" was discussed and the members voted to pay the debt to the church organist and during the year eighty-nine dollars were paid to her. Quilting, piecing patchwork, tying comforters and sewing kept the women unusually busy. In 1895 Mrs. J. D. Taylor was again elected president. The women were ambitious, and knowing they worked more willingly with some stated object in view, voted a pledge of $700 to pay the church's present indebtedness. The Ladies Sewing Society had just reasons for being proud of its capable workers but, it was intimated, they might be forgetting that another objective besides making money was stated in their constitution. To further friendliness and sociability, it was decided to set aside the last Friday of each month for a tea to be a purely social afTair, with a program and light re- freshments served for ten cents. These teas were very successful r 54 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS both socially and financially, the attendance being from fifty to one hundred-seventeen persons. A New Year's dinner at the church, an Experience dollars' sociable and Measuring supper, a colonial tea, the returns from all were greatly needed to pay bills. The South Heights Sewing Society made a gift of thirty-five dollars which was gladly accepted. Extra work meetings were held and the year ended with all quilts and comforters finished and all work completed. For the fourth time Mrs. J. D. Taylor was elected president in 1896. A special effort was made to cancel the note for the church debt by paying the last one hundred dollars. The church audito- rium had been changed and enlarged so greatly that the members thought it wiser to use the church carpet in other rooms and buy a new one for the audience room, also to give the church a thorough cleaning. This latter expense to be met by soliciting money or work or both. A committee appointed to get prices on carpet re- ported and the best quality of Body Brussels was purchased and laid. Money was borrowed and again the women worked industriously to pay this debt. Under the administration of Mrs. A. J. Taylor, elected in 1897, the ladies planned a "Pound Party" for a welcome back for the pas- tor, Rev. and Mrs. C. O. McCulloch on their return from Confer- ence. The "Pounds" were many and usable, a pleasing program was presented and the large numbers present testified that their welcome was sincere and from the heart. The afternoon teas which had been so successful, were held with the name changed to "Coffees". The members renewed their interest and served chicken-pie suppers, a Knight Templar banquet, held coffees, frequent work meetings, a linen sale and received liberal donations. At the close of the year all bills had been met and $510 paid on the note of $745 at the bank. At the annual meeting in May, 1898, the society decided to dis- continue the Friday work meetings, but to hold the coffees as usual, the president to call meetings if there were work to be done. Mrs. J. D. Taylor was elected president. A calling committee was ap- pointed to call on new members, greet strangers at church and pro- mote a more friendly feeling among church members. In January, 1899, at a called meeting the society voted to hold regular work meetings again, depositing the money received in the bank to be used as needed. Later a pledge of $500 was made toward building a new parsonage. Mesdames William McGill and H. C. Cleaveland rep- r 55 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM resented the society on the building committee. The treasurer's an- nual report stated that $200 had been paid on this pledge. Mrs. B. F. Hall was elected in 1899 and served the society as president for three years. The women knowing that money was needed to pay bills for the new parsonage, voted to borrow S300 and complete their pledge. To meet this new debt "A Trip Around the World", taken on a beautiful October afternoon and evening, was most unique and a successful entertainment. The following homes represented the countries and cities visited : London, Mrs. C. L. Waker; Sweden, Mrs. J. D. Taylor; Japan, Mrs. G. Cash; Vienna, Mrs. J. H. Wilson ; America, and the White House. Mrs. J. F. Robinson. Each home was fittingly decorated in colors and customs typical of its country were used in reception of visitors and showering hospitality on the visitors. Kings, Queens and Roy- alty received the American tourists in Europe and did everything possible to make the visit in their land pleasant. Even the Mikado was smiling and agile. The weary travelers welcomed the sight of the Stars and Stripes on their return to America. President and Mrs. McKinley, Gov. Theodore Roosevelt, Uncle Sam. Dr. Mary Walker, Samantha Allen and other notables received them at the White House, where pie, beans, doughnuts and coffee, all special- ties were served. The ladies who planned this entertainment have every reason to feel gratified with its social success and surely ap- preciated the financial gain of $255, and once more the society was out of debt. The housekeepers of the society, knowing the imme- diate needs of furnishings for the new parsonage voted to borrow $300, (which was increased to $525) and provide shades, chande- liers, a steel range, dining table and other necessities. Again the members began to quilt, and hold extra work meetings to tie com- forters, hemstitch pillow cases and sheets and do other sewing to earn more money. The new parsonage was finished and opened for a church reception and housewarming on November 24. Nearly five hundred members of the congregation and friends from other churches called during the evening and expressed themselves as well pleased with the commodious, modern home provided for the pas- tor. Refreshments were served by the young ladies of the Ep worth League. The need for earning money by some new and novel meth- ods was discussed. A church Calendar, a chain with an end, repre- senting the months, weeks, and days of the year was outlined and [56 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS the plan adopted. A May festival with a Burlesque band and straw- berries, ice cream, and cake for refreshments was well attended and a linen and bakery sale in December, 1900, netted the society a sum that made it possible to pay the note for parsonage furnishings in full. The Ladies Sewing Society, never without some incentive for serving the church, had voted to make the necessary repairs on the Sunday School room and church parlors. These rooms were thor- oughly cleaned, rugs made for the parlors, a new carpet purchased for the Sunday School room, the walls decorated and $300 was bor- rowed to meet this expense. The ladies, once more, began to devise ways and means to meet this note. Coffees were popular, a chicken- pie supper with an evening program and all refreshments sold out, a concert by the Fisk Jubilee Singers added to the money earned at the work meetings reduced the indebtedness to $100 as reported at the annual meeting of 1901. The society decided to hold but two meetings a month in the homes of the members, one work meeting and a coffee and fines were to be suspended. A most successful social event was the reception given to the new pastor, Rev. and Mrs. R. B. Williams and daughter Ruby. A program was given, refreshments served and a cordial welcome extended. Dinners and suppers were served in the church dining room for three days during the G.A.R. Encampment held in Rock Island and $135 was added to the treasury. The ladies, proud of the improvements and new decorations just completed on the interior of the parsonage, gave a complimentary reception for the pastor and family on July 25. More than two hundred persons called during the evening, all ex- pressing pleasure in the attractive rooms. The society closed the year out of debt and money in the treasury. In 1902 Mrs. S. J. Collins was elected and served as president for two years. The church board reported, at the first business meeting, an indebtedness of $3,000. The ladies cheerfully promised to be responsibile for $500. Plans were made to carry on the work as in previous years. Coffees, work meetings, an especially success- ful linen and fancy-work sale and a banquet served at Masonic Hall for the Knight Templars made it possible to pay $200 on the pledge in 1903. The following year work meetings were held on call of the president, but the coffees were still popular and given every month. An interesting event of this year was the observance of the sixti- eth anniversary of the organization of the society. It was appropri- f 57 V 100 YEARS OF METHODISM ately celebrated at the home of Mrs. Morris T. Stafford and Miss Mary Hurst, daughters of Mrs. William Hurst at whose home the society was organized. Old members and new ones were there to talk about those good times when the meetings were the social life of the church. Many personal incidents were related and the early history reviewed. The returns from a chicken-pie supper and utility sale, a banquet for 236 members of the Barrett chapter of Masons at one dollar a plate, the coffees and many donations of money made this a prosperous year. At the annual meeting the treasurer report- ed the note for the church debt paid and money in the bank, although at one time this amount had reached the zero mark of two cents. Mrs. C. A. Curry was elected president in 1904. At the first business meeting it was voted to assume the payment of thirty-six dollars for December in the calendar plan of the Y.M.C.A. to pay off its indebtedness. The name of the society which for nearly sixty years had been known as the Ladies Sewing Society was changed to the Ladies Aid to conform with the text of the church discipline. The members pledged $600 toward a general cleaning and repairing of the church, putting a canvas ceiling on the auditorium, frescoing the walls and cleaning the woodwork. A new carpet was purchased for the Sunday School room, new dishes for the dining room and payment was made on this pledge and for the one hundred and fifty new church hymnals by borrowing $750. Coffees, chicken-pie sup- per, a Christmas Market and commissions on magazine subscriptions were a few of the ways of raising money. Mrs. C. A. Curry, first vice-president, acted as president for 1905. Banquets, housekeepers' and pantry sales, work meetings and coffees showed satisfactory re- turns in the treasurer's report. In 1906 Mrs. F K. Rhoads was chosen president. An Exper- ience social, the returns from which were used in repairing and paint- ing the parsonage, was given. Each member told in rhyme or prose her method of raising one dollar. The Easter supper and sale, Linen sale, Brotherhood supper and coffees made a successful year, and the note at the bank was reduced to $162. Mrs. M. E. Sweeney, who had served the society as secretary for six years, was elected president in 1907. Coffees, pantry sales, the annual linen sale and work meetings were held. At a birthday coffee the two living charter members, Mrs. M. C. Kinney and J. D. Taylor were honored guests and a beautiful potted plant given each r 58 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS one to show the esteem and love in which they were held. At the end of the year the members applauded the report that the last dollar had been paid on the pledge, with a small amount in the bank. Mrs. C. E. Nicholas was elected in 1908. The first great suc- cess of this year was serving meals for the Knight Templar State Conclave in October. It was a large undertaking, committees were appointed and organized and for three days each woman willingly did the work assigned as her special task. All felt the money earned repaid them for the many days of work. A new gas stove, dining- room tables, dishes and silverware had been purchased and made this an easier task. A Christmas afternoon sale and coffee was given but work meetings were held at irregular intervals. It was voted, after much discussion, to pay $500 toward the lot purchased by the church board, and a prompt payment of $100 was made on this pledge. At the election of 1909, Mrs. C. L. Lutes was chosen as presi- dent. The work meetings held at the homes of the members were busy days, tying comforters, making aprons, sewing carpet rags, in preparation for the linen sale held in December. Coffees and business meetings were held as usual and proved financial helps to the society. A Country Store given April 1 with an April Fool joke booth, lunch counter, grocery store sugar barrel and all other novelites sold at stores on display. The pledge for the church lot was reduced to $155. The society, under the leadership of Mrs. F. K. Rhoads as pres- ident in 1910, held regular work meetings and many aprons and fancy articles were made for the linen and bakery sale held in De- cember at the home of Mrs. J. F. Robinson. Coffees were well at- tended and all members worked on committees. A commission of ten per cent from one day's sales at the jewelry store of J. Ingalls was a financial success. At a Talent social given in May, the ladies told of the many ways they had invested their talent of ten cents, reinvesting these returns almost to ten fold. Many original and honest ways of earning money were related. Plates, trays and kitchen utensils were purchased, the parsonage repaired, cleaned and papered, all bills paid and the note paid in full at the close of the year. The society did not disband, but no stated meetings were held until October, 1913, when the ladies of the church met to reorganize. [59 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM adopting a revised constitution and by-laws and electing officers. Mrs. S. E. Mattison was elected president and appointed committees. Miss Mary Hurst, who had served the society as treasurer for twenty-one consecutive years, was made treasurer emeritus. Work was planned and work meetings started at once, making aprons, rugs and fancy articles for the linen, candy and bakery sale in December. The ladies of the church were divided into groups and every one was expected to serve on some coffee. At the business meeting in March, 1914, the proposed plans for an Annex to the church were shown and explained. A pledge of $3,000 was made to this needed improvement, twenty months being allowed for paying same. With money in the bank, the treasurer was authorized to give a check for $500. With so large a debt to pay, the women must find more ways of earning money. Work meetings were held at the homes as work was provided, calendars and soap powder sold, and the proceeds from the bazaar of December, 1915, were unusually large, so that $750 had been paid on pledge. A supper to celebrate the first anniversary of the opening of the new church annex, a Martha Washington coffee, concert by Richard Knotts, Parcel Post sale were a few of the many methods of earn- ing money. At the close of Mrs. Mattison's three years of service, $1,100 had been paid on the church debt. Miss Julia Battles was the president elected in 1916, and car- ried on the work of the society for four years. A most popular and successful entertainment was given in July, 1916. For three even- ings the natural Bowl of Watch Tower park was an appropriate setting for Princess Chrysanthemum, a Japanese Operetta. The native costumes and decorations, colored lights, Japanese lanterns and fine voices, made this a brilliant event. Members of the choir played important roles and Edwin Johnson, now director of the New York Symphony Orchestra, was a real Mikado. The society was divided into nine divisions, later changed to ten, each division to have charge of one coffee and plan its own ways of raising money. Calendars were sold, luncheons and banquets served to organiza- tions, a Human Calendar completed, annual bazaars and suppers given, embroidered waist patterns sold and these were busy years. The parsonage was painted, a French orphan adopted and canned fruit and jelly sent to Wesley hospital in Chicago where disabled soldiers were treated, and to the Methodist hospital in Peoria. The [60] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS members continued to decorate the church on Easter Sunday, pre- pare communion table and co-operate with the pastor in the social life of the church. Mrs. William Paulsen succeeded Miss Battles as president and served the society for two years. Chairmen for coffees and com- mittees were appointed and plans for work made. The first social duties of the ladies were to assist Rev. and Mrs. S. Van Pelt and the church board with a reception given to the new members and to the congregation. All-day sewings were held, aprons, fancy articles and rugs were made for the sales and bazaars ; lawn socials, rum- mage sale, coffees, chicken dinners, a demonstration of cold pack canning were carefully planned and well attended. A committee assisted the pastor by making calls on the sick, on families that had expressed preference for the Methodist church and on those whose children attended our Sunday School. Other members greeted strangers at church services. The ladies had promised to pay $500 toward decorating the church after the balance of building pledge was paid, so were very glad to serve meals for the Knight Templar Commanderies in session here for two days. This big undertaking netted $1,020. An instructive and interesting lecture with lantern slides, on "Alaska, the Wonderland", was given by the pastor, Rev. J. A. Chapman, and drew a very large audience. The proceeds were used toward paying note for decorating. The last meeting of Mrs. Paulsen's term of service was a Jubilee coffee held at the parsonage with the past presidents as honored guests. It was also a joyous celebration, for the society ended the year free from debt, with both pledges paid in full. During the administration of Mrs. E. H. Dunavin as president in 1922, extensive repairs were made in the parsonage. The com- mittee reported that walls were papered, floors refinished, chande- liers purchased and many changes and improvements made. This expenditure of $805 added to $401, the price of a needed carpet for the church parlors, made it necessary for the society to borrow $1,000 to meet these expenses. Good meals served for two days to the delegates attending the Grotto convention proved that the ladies still could make a success of large dinners. Small, struggling churches were helped, linen sent to the Methodist hospital in Peoria, Church Day was established and fifty dollars given toward the cost of new robes for the choir, besides helping to make them, are only r 6i i 100 YEARS OF METHODISM a part of the many good things accomplished. Chicken dinners, ba- zaars, rummage sale, coffees and banquets served to outside organ- izations were so financially successful that at the end of the year only $180 remained unpaid on their note. Mrs. M. C. McLain was president for 1923. Committees were appointed for all lines of work and plans made for the ususal activ- ities. Rummage sale, a Rally Day supper for the church congrega- tion and Sunday School with an evening program, two noon dinners given at the church, coffees with entertaining programs, a playlet, the "Deestrict Skule" given by a group from the First M. E. Church of Moline and the proceeds equally divided, were the principal ways of raising money. A November bazaar at the church was unusually well attended. The rooms were attractively decorated and fur- nished. Tea was served and many practical and beautiful articles sold. The church was decorated on Easter Sunday, a pledge paid to the Campmeeting fund, thirty-six dish towels hemmed for the church, dress forms made and sold and many repairs made on par- sonage including $270 paid on a new furnace. The calling commit- tee reported many social calls made and others where there was ill- ness in the family. The annual report of the treasurer showed old indebtedness paid and all bills met for repairs of $500 on parsonage. In September, 1924, Mrs. J. H. Miller was chosen president. A Fall social event was a reception given in the church annex as a fare- well to the retiring district superintendent, Dr. J. T. Jones, a wel- come to Dr. G. H. Thorpe, the incoming one, and the church pastor, Dr. J. A. Chapman and their families. Words of regret and welcome were voiced by members of the church, a program was given and refreshments served. Many ways of meeting expenses were planned for this year. Dinners served to the Parent-Teachers Association that met in the church, a pancake supper, demonstrating Pillsbury flour, a congregational supper, November bazaar with supper served to over 300 and a fine display of aprons, fancy articles, dolls, rugs, candy and bakery goods, which were rapidly sold. Coffees, work and business meetings made it a busy year. The parsonage com- mittee reported weather strips were put on doors and windows, new ceilings on two rooms and two new rugs for living rooms were pur- chased. When these were laid, the old hall rug looked so shabby that one to match was bought. Pillow cases, bath towels and sheeting, valued at twenty dollars sent to the Methodist Hospital in Peoria, r 62 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS ten dollars to the campmeeting fund and a piece quilt top was given to Bethany Home, and new dishes and kitchen utensils were bought The year closed with all bills paid, including those for kitchen equip- ment for $98, dishes $177 and $650 for parsonage repairs. At the first business meeting with Mrs. L. D. Marshall as pres- ident in 1925, many helpful suggestions for the year's work were made by the members. Committees were appointed and cofTees well attended. Two all-day work meetings with noon luncheon were held to tie comforters and sew carpet rags. A well patronized rummage sale, an afternoon bazaar and supper with evening meeting, choir supper, Sunday evening lunches for Epworth League and business meetings of the choir, Father and Son banquet made this a prosper- ous year. The suggestion was made and at once decided favorably that the members begin at once to piece quilts and quilt them for the Baby Fold in Normal for Christmas gifts. At the annual meeting report was made that twelve beautiful baby quilts, six pink and white and six blue and white were nearly completed and two large ones started for the hospital in Peoria. Flower baskets for the pul- pit and platform were bought and filled with poinsettas the Sunday before Christmas, white robes were made for the children's choir and the salary and expenses of Alberta Thomas, deaconess, appointed as assistant to the pastor for three months, were paid. Only $55 was spent by the parsonage committee. A gift of $100 was sent to Rev. Chapman in appreciation of the help he had been to the society. New dishes were bought and their cost of $353 and all other bills were paid. Mrs. G. W. Buckner, elected in 1926, discussed the work for the year at the first business meeting. Committees were named and work outlined. All-day work meetings were held in October and Novem- ber with noon lunch sewing for the December bazaar. A successful rummage sale was held, the bazaar with evening dinner was well at- tended, coffees were as popular as ever. Free from debt for some years, the society again pledged $500 toward the church obligations. A dinner for about 350 persons was served to the pastors, official board members and their wives, of the twenty-one churches of the city. It was both a social and financial success. Father and Son banquet, Young Peoples' Council supper helped to pay the debt the society had promised. Coat racks for the church dining room were bought, flowers for the pulpit were given the second Sunday of \63 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM each month, the calling committee reported many calls, ten dollars given to the campmeeting fund and four needy churches helped as the year closed. Miss Emma Battles, the president elected in 1927, called three executive Board meetings during the summer and committees were appointed and hostesses for the coffees and business meetings se- lected. After discussion, plans were made to carry on the work as in former years. Two members were elected to the executive Board and three ladies were appointed on the parsonage committee to serve three, two and one year respectively, each year one to be appointed for three years. A homecoming dinner and reception for the pastor, Rev. J. A. and Mrs. Chapman and the District Superintendent, Rev. G. H. and Mrs. Thorpe was the first social event of the year. The after-dinner program was announced by the toastmaster and the speaker introduced, and a real welcome home was given by pas- tors of the other city churches and members of the congregation. The December bazaar at the church added two new features to the usual list of articles sold. A fish pond and white elephant table tempted many to try their skill and luck. Tea was served during the afternoon, an evening chicken dinner and social time made this an outstanding event. Breakfasts, dinners and suppers served to out- side organizations, a rummage sale and coffees added large sums to the treasury. The society gave twenty-five dollars to the camp- meeting fund, $100 to religious education in the schools, $500 was added to the decorating fund started in May, two ceilings were re- placed in the parsonage and $321 paid on furnace repairs. Mrs. C. H. Langman, in her annual report in 1929, after a year's service as President, put special stress on the willing co-operation of the members, their quick response to calls for help and the increased interest in the devotional services at the business meetings. The kindness shown to many, the sympathy for those in sorrow and the welfare work quietly done have meant more to the members than great financial results. The committee reported an unusual number of calls made, the flowers used for Easter decorations were sent to twenty shut-ins, ten dollars given to the campmeeting fund and $100 was voted once more to religious education after the committee had given an interesting account of the value of the school. The coffees were social events, many small dinners were served for church and public organizations and a "Missionary Friend" party was given [64] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS when each visitor brought a gift for a missionary. The greatest fi- nancial success was the November bazaar given at the church. The booths and tables selling many kinds of merchandise, were appro- priately decorated and customers were there to buy. A musical tea was the entertainment for the afternoon and a social time followed the evening dinner. Plans were begun immediately to solicit work and make practical and dainty articles for the next bazaar. All bills were paid and $650 deposited in the savings account. The usual plans for earning money were changed under Mrs. E. H. Clement as president in 1929. In place of giving large dinners with the soliciting and many hours tiring work done by a few mem- bers, the committee in charge asked each member to give $1.00 toward this fund. The amount contributed was $160, which equalled the proceeds from 2 or 3 dinners. It was also decided to substitute a County Fair in December for the annual bazaar. This Fair had all the attractions of a real fair; balloons, fortune tellers, soft drinks, hot dog stands, tight rope walkers, freak corner, and seven wonders were only a few of the features. Each booth had a noisy barker to sell its wares and many clowns made the evening a jolly one. Re- freshments were served and rugs, aprons, and fancy work were sold at the household booths. The committees were proud to report that the returns from the bazaar were $400. Gifts were made to the Y. W. C. A. operating fund, ten dollars to campmeeting, $100 to religious education, the dishes were sorted and those not being used were given to the Rescue Mission, flowers and cards were sent to the shut-ins and many calls were made on church families. Din- ners were served for delegates to the Epworth League convention, Standard Bearers Rally, Father and Son meeting, District Conven- tion of the Foreign Missionary Society, and a banquet for the G. A. R. convention delegates. Coffees at the home of members, commis- sion on subscriptions to magazines and selling household necessities were other methods of earning money. One social event was a re- ception to the new pastor, Rev. E. G. Sandmeyer and Mrs. Sand- meyer and District Superintendent Rev. and Mrs. T. E. Newland. A short program was given and everyone welcomed these new work- ers. A gas stove was bought for the parsonage and many repairs and improvements were reported by the parsonage committee. It was voted that all money not needed to carry on the work of the r 65 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM society be deposited in the decorating account which now showed $1,324 in bank. Mrs. A. F. Sala was President for the years 1930-31. These were years of financial depression and the executive board thought best not to take on any new activities, but the cheerful response from members made it possible to meet all the most important obligations of the society. All committees were appointed and plans made for work. During these two years the usual contributions were made to the campmeeting fund and religious education, church decora- tions were furnished on Easter Sunday, flowers sent to shut-ins and many calls were reported. The salary of an assistant to pastor was paid for one month and five dollars given toward expense of Hal- lowe'en party for the young people of the church, coffee was fur- nished and made for the Wednesday evening supper meetings for one month, and a light purchased for the pipe organ. A chicken dinner with candy and bakery sale, substituted for the annual ba- zaar, was given at the church in December, 1930. The workers were pleased with the attendance. A father and son banquet, din- ners for the Parent-Teachers Association and Boys' Conference were served and these proceeds added to the returns from the always popular coffees, made it eaasy to meet all obligations. A beautiful silver tea and coffee service was purchased and used at coffees and receptions. In 1931 the church board reported an indebtedness on the church budget and asked to borrow from the Ladies Aid Society. It was voted to take $2,000 from the decorating fund and loan to the church, the same to be paid on demand. The women co-operat- ing with the pastor, Rev. E. G. Sandmeyer and family, gave an all-church reception for the members and congregation of the church, the new members to be the guests of honor. After a short program the guests were divided into three groups, with special entertain- ers for the adults, others for the juniors and the younger children. Refreshments were served and the many in attendance showed their appreciation of this well-planned evening's entertainment by noisily enjoying this good time. Several suppers were served for church organizations, requests from needy churches received and money sent and many other good deeds were reported. The society helped sponsor the Marshall Dramatic Contest and received a percentage on tickets sold. The committee made many repairs on the parson- r 661 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS age and bought a hall runner and carpet for stairs in front hall and were thankful to close the year with $450 in the bank. The first official act of Mrs. E. H. Sheldon, president for two years, was to call a special business meeting of the society in July, 1932, to meet representatives from the church board. It was ex- plained that under the present financial conditions, many pledges to the church budget could not be paid. Voluntary gifts were being solicited, by giving $350 for church expenses. A reception was given at the church as a farewell courtesy to Rev. and Mrs. E. G. Sand- meyer, who had been with this church for three years. Speakers from the church organizations expressed regret at their departure and wished them success and happiness in the new home. The large number of friends present testified to the esteem in which the pastor and his family were held. Another social event was a recep- tion welcoming the new pastor, Rev. E. J. Campbell and Mrs. Camp- bell, and Rev. F. A. McCarty recently appointed District Superin- tendent, and the family. A program of music and addresses of wel- come was given and the Ladies Aid served refreshments. The so- ciety planned the year's work which must be, as $200, to be paid in ten installments had been pledged to the church budget. This sub- scription was increased to $500 in 1933. A spring festival and coffee held in the church included an exhibit of quilts and rugs with a local department store sponsoring a style show and pretty models displaying modish and beautiful gowns. A large free will offering from the many visitors was appreciated by the committee in charge. Dinners, coffees, the Crucible campaign selling household products and many other projects added their bit to the needed funds to carry on the work for the two years. The ladies of the society, always generous and helpful to the church organizations, cancelled the debt owed them by the church board, and marked the note of $2,000 "paid in full". The com- mittee reported that an electric refrigerator was purchased for the parsonage and many repairs made. All the ways and means for earning money to meet the promised obligations were continued and a busy year was pronounced one of service and success. Under Mrs. B. G. Daigh, president in 1934, the society adopted the plan of dividing the membership into four groups, two on each side of 20th Street. Names of Bible women were used to designate these groups — Hannah and Deborah circles on the east side, Ruth [67 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM and Esther on the west side of the street. Each circle elected its officers, held separate business meetings, and were responsible for at least $250 of the society's budget, and had charge of two coffees during the year. The proceeds from annual bazaar and dinner, ban- quets and other general activities were divided equally, each circle earning the remainder of its quota in ways suggested by the mem- bers. Business meetings were held in church parlors and commit- tees appointed. Each committee was expected to assume complete charge and be responsible for its duties. The circle members con- stituted the calling committee. A pledge of $500 was paid toward church budget and other obligations met. The parsonage committee with the approval of the membership, made many changes in the home of the paster and his wife. The bath room was thoroughly remodeled with new modern fixtures in color, old plumbing re- placed, walls decorated and new linoleum on the floor. Other rooms were papered and decorated. The ladies, justly proud of the results, assisted Rev. and Mrs. E. J. Campbell in giving an after- noon and evening coffee and an open house at the parsonage. The rooms were genuinely admired and the work of the committee praised. The new plan of work was very successful and received the loyal co-operation of the members. The circles reported $1,111 had been earned in many ways. The last year of this history of the Ladies Aid Society, with Mrs. W. M. Hodgson as president in 1935, was as active and successful as the years that preceded it, and as full of thoughtful and sympa- thetic deeds. The work was outlined, committees appointed and circle plan continued. A pledge of $600 for church repairs was paid, a gift of $10 to campmeeting fund and $500 given toward the church budget. Business meetings were held each month in the church with dessert luncheon at 1 :30 P. M., when reports were given and plans discussed. After the general meeting the circles held separate business meetings to outline their own work. Each circle promised to increase its quota for the year if possible. One social event was the pot-luck dinner given at the church for the pastor and Mrs. E. J. Campbell, who were beginning their fourth year of service with the church. A social hour followed the dinner with words of sincere welcome and a musical program. A June garden party, the annual dinner and bazaar in December with the circle responsible for the articles on sale and banquets served other [68] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS organizations were profitable events. A volunteer committee gave the church kitchen a spring cleaning. $500 was paid toward church budget, $10 to campmeeting expense, and new furnace added to the comforts of the parsonage were some of the work accomplished. The circles added $1,128 to the funds and a profitable year ended. At the annual election in May, 1936, Mrs. W. D. Starnes was elected president. The new officers of the society and circles were installed at a family-night dinner at the church. Twelve past pres- idents of the society were presented flowers and an interesting pro- gram given. Plans for the year's work are made, committees ap- pointed and working, circle divisions continued and the year's work well started. A pledge of $600 for church repairs and $500 toward church expenses was made and will be paid. An undertaking, worthy of note, for the summer was the work of the committee that ar- ranged entertainment for those attending the annual church confer- ence held in our church during September. Homes were generously opened and five hundred ministers were cared for and their wives given special entertainment. The Ladies Aid Society is often called the housekeeping organ- ization of the church, but it is also the pastor's first assistant in car- rying on his plans and suggestions. The women of this church have demonstrated all through these years that they are cheerful, willing workers with loyal courage and a vision for higher ideals in the church and society. O Workman true, may we fulfill In daily life Thy Father's will; In duty's call, Thy call we hear To fuller life, through work sincere. Thou Master Workman, grant us grace The challenge of our tasks to face; By loyal scorn of second best, By effort true, to meet each test. And thus we pray in deed and word, Thy kingdom come on earth, O Lord ; In word that gives effect to prayer, Thy purpose for Thy world we share. 69 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Woman's Foreign Missionary Society B y Mrs. miikm Lavend< vender 1HE Woman's Foreign Missionary Society can- not write its age this year in centennial numbers because a good many years elapsed after the founding of our local church, in 1836, before we find any record of missionary effort. The command of Christ, "Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature", has ever been present in the mind and heart of the early Methodist Church in America. Very early in its history, missions were sustained among the Indians, and out of this effort grew the parent missionary society of the Church. The work which was inaugurated by women, for women, had its birth in New England. It is now carried forward by them throughout the land, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and from the Great Lakes to the Gulf. So marvelous has been its growth, that Methodist women in twenty-three foreign countries are now affil- iated with the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society through the In- ternational Department. "Of the increase of his government .... there shall be no end." An adequate and comprehensive history of our local auxiliary cannot be written without giving an insight into the work of the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society at large. The early missionaries, who went to the Orient, soon found that they were handicapped by customs and superstitions and were un- able to reach the women of heathendom. They faced a closed door and the key was not in their hands. Two of the missionaries' wives, Mrs. Butler and Mrs. Parker, realized that some way must be found to reach the women secluded in the zenanas. Only women could enter there. When Mrs. Parker returned, in 1869, after ten years' work in India, she, together with Mrs. Butler, organized the Wom- an's Foreign Missionary Society, on March 20, 1869, in the chapel of Tremont Street Church, Boston. The records tell us that eight [70] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS women braved he elements that rainy, March afternoon and helped effect an organization which has encircled the globe. At the first public meeting of the new society, Dr Butler pre- sented the legal disabilities of the Indian woman, her degradation, and the ban upon her education. Dr. Parker gave the facts to prove the impossibility of converting women save through the instrumen- tality of women and to show the doors now open for female mis- sionaries. It was voted, at this meeting, to accept Miss Isabel Tho- burn, a sister of Rev. James Thoburn, himself a missionary in India, as the Society's first missionary. It was further determined to send two ladies to India and it was hoped that one of these might be a "medical lady". The need for women medical missionaries was emphasized by missionaries in all lands. One missionary said, "You might as well try to scale a wall thirty yards high as to try to teach an Indian woman to read. Every educated person knows the pecu- liar position of the Hindoo women of the upper classes ; how they are entirely secluded and no ordinary missionary finds access to them. But if a female missionary knew something of medical sci- ence and practice, readily would she find access and, while applying her medical skill, would have precious opportunities of applying the balm of spiritual healing." Such a "medical lady" was found in the person of Miss Clara Swain, a graduate of the Woman's Medical College of Philadelphia. She was accepted and appointed as the first medical missionary, with instructions to sail with Miss Isabella Thoburn, November 3, 1869. As interest in the new organization grew and the membership in- creased, the field at home was divided into eleven Branches with central authority vested in an executive committee made up of repre- sentatives from each Branch. These eleven Branches are: the New England, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Cincinnati, North- western, Des Moines, Minneapolis, Topeka, Pacific and Columbia River. The Northwestern Branch, to which we belong, includes the states of Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan, and was organized March 17, 1870. Let us look back and see the part our Rock Island church had in the great new missionary movement. It was a cold Sabbath morning, February 19, 1870, in the old church. There was one large square room with straight walls, narrow aisles, pews not as comfortable as those we have today, nevertheless filled with faithful, [71 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM devout worshippers and, what was most extraordinary, a woman in the pulpit. This woman was Mrs. Jennie Fowler Willing of Rock- ford, sister of Bishop Fowler, who had come here to effect a mis- sionary organization in our church. The immediate result of that meeting was an organization of ninety names on the roll who gave their "two cents a week and a prayer" cheerfully though often sac- rifically. The fact that our organization preceded that of the North- western Branch by one month, together with the knowledge that the Rock Island Society was one of the earliest founded west of the Allegahnies, has always been a source of great pride to us. The first officers elected were : President, Mrs. J. W. Spencer, who held the office for eighteen consecutive years until her death ; Vice-President, Mrs. T. J. Robinson, who held office for twenty-four consecutive years ; Recording Secretary, Mrs. C. C. Starr ; Corres- ponding Secretary, Mrs. L. C. Spencer ; Treasurer, Mrs. William Jackson. The society met for many years in the home of Mrs. J. W. Spencer, when illness prevented her from leaving her bed. The zeal and love of Mrs. Spencer for the cause of missions continued in the life and work of her son, the Rev. William A. Spencer, who, for years, was one of the church extension secretaries and also, in the life and work of her granddaughter, Miss Clarissa Spencer, who was a missionary in Japan. The last of the charter members passed beyond in 1935, Mrs. J. T. Noftsker, who served and loved the society through a period of sixty-five years. During the sixty-five years of its existence our society has had but thirteen different presidents, some serving consecutive years, others at intervals. They are as follows : 1. Mrs. J. W. Spencer 1870-1888 2. Mrs. J. T. Noftsker 1888-1893 3. Mrs. M. E. Brown 1893-1895 4. Mrs. L. C. Daugherty 1895-1898 5. Mrs. C. O. McCulloch 1898-1901 6. Mrs. Morris Battles 1901-1904 Mrs. J. T. Noftsker 1904-1909 7. Mrs. S. E. Mattison 1909-1913 8. Mrs. C. C. Curry 1913-1921 Mrs. S. E. Mattison 1921-1922 9. Mrs. G. W. Buckner 1922-1925 10. Mrs. C. C. Nickolas 1925-1929 11. Mrs. C. J. Shaw 1929-1930 12. Mrs. Wm. Hodgson 1930-1932 Mrs. C. C. Curry 1932-1933 13. Mrs. Wm. Lavender 1933-1936 [72 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS One of our present members whose long and faithful service should be mentioned is Miss Florence Battles, who served our aux- iliary as treasurer for thirty-two years until forced to give up the office because of ill health. To quote from the constitution of the Woman's Foreign Mis- sionary Society, our purpose is, "To engage and unite the efforts of Christian women in sending missionaries to the women in foreign missionary fields of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in sup- porting them and national Christian teachers and Bible readers in those fields, and in all forms of work carried on by the society." The annual dues are one dollar plus twenty cents for branch, conference, district, and local contingent funds. These dues are used to pay the missionaries' salaries. The contingent funds are used for postage, printing, and similar expenses of branch, confer- ence, and district officers. Our society takes two special offerings during the year, a Christ- mas offering and a Thank-offering. The former is taken in Decem- ber, when we have a special program. The money collected is used to pay the passage of missionaries to their various stations. The Thank-offering, as its name suggests is a gift of thanks above and beyond all other pledges, thanks to God for all His wonderful gifts to us. This money is used to build hospitals, dispensaries, schools, etc., wherever the executive officers think the need is greatest. Each auxiliary makes a special pledge each year according to its ability to support orphans, Bible women, nationals, or scholarships. For many years our society has contributed $100 to help support a nat- ional worker in India. One of our members this year is supporting an orphan in the same land, by the payment of $25. Other ways of using money for missionary purposes are by mak- ing honorary managers by the payment of $100, memorial members by the payment of fifty dollars, and life members by the payment of twenty dollars. The records show that, in past years, our society made five honorary managers : Mrs. J. W. Spencer, 1886, Mrs. T. J. Robinson, 1887, Mrs. J. W. Stark, 1889, Mrs. E. D. Sweeney, 1890, and Mrs. Jane McNish, 1892. In more recent years four memorial members were made : Mrs. Ann Battles, 1927, Mrs. J. T. Noftsker, 1927, Mrs. Sara Freeman, 1928, and Mrs. M. M. Sturgeon, 1928. This memorial has been placed on the records of the old Tremont Street Church, Boston, \ 73 I 100 YEARS OF METHODISM where the first woman's missionary society in the United States was organized. Many life members have been made through the years; the list would be too long to give. According to the records the raising of the money for missionary purposes was as vital and pertinent then, as now. In the former days we hear of no rummage sales, pot-luck dinners, or book-re- views, but ice cream socials seemed to be the popular thing. One witty secretary tells of an ice cream social that failed to materialize, but each woman was required to donate the price of her cake plus the amount her husband would have paid to have eaten the cake. An advertised Hindu Wedding was not consumated, why the record does not state, but the missionary ladies were very much perturbed over the fact that the cost of advertising must be met. The Union, the local paper, saved the day by cancelling the debt. The record of the General Missionary Society last year, 1935, shows 352,214 members in 15,489 auxiliaries, and 723 missionaries on the field. Since the beginning, in 1869, $55,344,156.15 has come into its treasury. This amount has been invested in real estate, col- lege plants, schools, and hospitals in India, China, Japan, Korea, Africa, Burma, Malay, Sumatra, Mexico, South America, and the Philippines. Our own society in its sixty-six years of service has contributed almost $17,000 of this amount. A fact which is worthy of note, and of which the women are justly proud, is the efficient way in which the money of the society is handled by the executive officers. These officers receive no salary but give their time freely so that ninety-five cents out of every dol- lar goes directly to mission work. In 1900, our auxiliary was hostess to the Northwestern Branch meeting and entertained 348 delegates from the states of Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan. We have several times enter- tained the annual district meeting and we are hostess again this Oc- tober, 1936, to the ladies of the Galesburg District. The Woman's Foreign Missionary Society very early in its his- tory saw the need of training the children and the young people along missionary lines. Two societies for children were organized; "The Little Light Bearers", for children up to seven years of age, and the "King's Heralds" for those from seven to fourteen years. These [74 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS children's bands through their own efforts support their own mis- sionaries and through their Thank-offering help to build schools and hospitals. Our first local work among the children was started by Mrs. M. M. Sturgeon many years ago when she organized a band called "The Jewels" which, in 1903, became the "King's Heralds". We have, in our church, both of these children's organizations. Mrs. E. E. Covey is the leader of the "King's Heralds" at this time, and directs their meetings and activities. Beyond the age of fourteen, the girls become "Standard Bear- ers" and continue their missionary study. Mrs. Grace Paulsen is now directing a group of about fifteen girls in helping their less for- tunate sisters in far away lands. A large and effective part of our local missionary work was done by the "Daughters of the Covenant", an organization of young ladies belonging to the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society. They con- tinued in active missionary effort for over a period of twenty-five years when they merged with the auxiliary of the older women, whose ranks were being deleted by removals and death. Our local membership fluctuates between forty and fifty mem- bers. Our problem today is the same that has from the beginning confronted the society — ways to interest more women in missionary work. Statistics show that sixty per cent of the church members are not interested in either foreign or home work. Christ's command is two-fold, "Come unto me", and "Go tell". We cannot all go but we can send through these ambassadors of His, the missionaries, "That they might know Thee, the only true God". Prayer, person- ality, and possessions are three key words of the society. Our local meetings are held the fourth Friday of each month at the homes of the various members. The program is based on an outline furnished by the national organization and a study book takes us each year into a different country. Last year we spent many de- lightful hours in South America, while this year we study Congo womanhood through "Congo Crosses." "The Missionary Friend", the official paper of our organization, published monthly in Boston, brings from the foreign field, news and information which is essential to an interested and well-informed society. Time and space forbid the mentioning by name the many splen- did women who have labored long and faithfully in our church mis- [75 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM sionary work. They quietly and efficiently came on the stage, did their part and passed on, to be followed by other splendid women; each holding the torch high and passing it on to the on-coming gen- eration. These women gave unstintingly of their prayers, person- ality, and possessions. Through the records of the society runs one golden thread, "Do not let the society die after we are gone". BIBLIOGRAPHY Isham, Mary, Valorous Ventures, Boston, Publication Office, Wom- an's Foreign Missionary Society, 1936. Fifty Years of Methodism in Rock Island, Illinois, 1836-1886, Rev. G. J. Luckey, editor Rock Island, Augustana Book Concern, 1887. Minutes of Local Meetings, 1870-1936. Northwestern Branch Reports, 1871-1935. 76 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Woman's Home Missionary Society By mu g. Taylor 1 HE Woman's Home Missionary Society of the First Methodist Episcopal Church, of Rock Island, Illinois, dates its history from May 4, 1883, when a group of young women met in the church to consider forming a society to take up some line of church work. Mrs. M. M. Stur- geon presided. After discussion a decided pref- erence was shown for the work carried on by the Home Missionary Society. Miss Helen Walker read the constitu- tion of the W. H. M. S. of the Methodist Episcopal Church, which had recently been organized. The first convention had been held in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1882, under the presidency of Mrs. Rutherford B. Hayes. The young women voted to adopt the constitution, pro- vided they could devote their money to such schools as they pre- ferred. The charter members were as follows : Mrs. Carrie Jackson Barth Mrs. Anna Stafford Kough (Deceased) (Deceased) Miss Emma Battles Mrs. Carrie Kemble Lewis Mrs. Anna Henderson Collins Mrs. Helen Walker Northrup (Deceased) Mrs. Dollie Bailey Shaw Mrs. Susie Stoddard Del Valle Mrs. Kittie Battles Spafford Mrs. Lelah Bailey Drips Miss Ella Taylor Mrs. E. W. Hurst Miss Jennie Taylor Mrs. Lizzie Kemble Keeney The following officers were elected : President — Mrs. E. W. Hurst Vice-Presidents — Miss Helen Walker, Miss Ella Taylor and Miss Carrie Jackson Corresponding Secretary — Miss Emma Battles Recording Secretary — Miss Lizzie Kemble Treasurer — Miss Anna Henderson Owing to our interest in the work carried on by the Freedmen's Aid Society, which had been presented in our church by the Rev. Dr. Gray, and in a school located in Little Rock, Arkansas, we de- cided to pay the expenses of two girls, namely — Mary Ashmore and Nannie Carr, in that school. [77 \ 100 YEARS OF METHODISM We began our fourth year with Miss Ella Taylor as President. A new name appears as Vice-President — Miss Tilly Hardy ; Record- ing Secretary, Miss Anna Stafford ; and Treasurer, Miss Anna Bennett. Our Society now numbered forty (40) members, and being encouraged by our success, we added to our responsibilities by undertaking the support of another girl, Miss Thena Keck. For a few years minutes of our meetings are wanting, but our Corres- ponding Secretary, Miss Editha Kendall, preserved the correspond- ence with our national officers, frontier ministers, and our benefici- aries, which indicates the nature of the work which we were doing, and never a year has passed when we failed to contribute to the missionary treasury. At the session of the annual conference held in Galesburg in 1889, Chaplain McCabe, later Bishop McCabe, made a missionary address, after which the women retired to another room and organ- ized the Central Illinois conference, and elected officers as follows : President — Mrs. G. J. Luckey (wife of the Pastor), Galesburg. Recording Secretary — Mrs. S. Van Pelt. Corresponding Secretary and Treasurer — Miss Libbie A. Smith, Normal. A letter was received immediately from Mrs. R. S. Rust of Cin- cinnati, Corresponding Secretary of the General Society, request- ing that we elect a delegate to the General Board meeting at Indi- anapolis October 21, 1889. Our newly elected President, Mrs. G. J. Luckey of Galesburg, was appointed and attended the meeting. She returned with reports that resulted in the society at Rock Island becoming a part of the National Society, and we were known for a long time as the Home Mission Circle, under the direction of the conference officers. During the ten years following our membership increased to 82, and an average attendance was recorded for one year at 47. In May, 1913, we celebrated our thirtieth anniversary in the Sunday School room. Minutes during these many years were carefully kept, and make quite interesting reading for the present members. On our fiftieth anniversary, which occurred in 1933, we celebrated with a delightful picnic at the farm home of Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Reid at Andalusia. We had several charter members present, and letters from Mrs. Elmore W. Hurst, Washington, D. C, our first Presi- [78 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS dent, and Mrs. J. A. Northrup, formerly Miss Helen Walker, our first Vice-President, were read. In 1904 Raymond Ricker, one of our honorary members, started to China as a missionary. He returned after about twenty years service and is now living in Seattle, Wash. The same year Miss Maude Luckey, our minister's daughter, went to Sibley Hospital, Washington, D. C, to take nurse training. Later she was Super- intendent of Burge Deaconess Hospital at Springfield, Mo. The payment of $30.00 at one time into the Perpetual Member- ship Fund constitutes a perpetual membership, and we are pleased to enroll the following names as perpetual members of our Auxil- iary : Dr. E. M. Sala, by his wife. Mr. W. A. Darling, by his wife. Mrs. M. M. Sturgeon, by her daughters. Mrs. Sadie Lidders, by her daughter. Miss Ella G. Taylor, by the Central Illinois Conference. Several of our members deserve the term "out-standing". One of these is Mrs. T. S. Smith. She joined the society in 1916, became Recording Secretary in 1923, and has held the office continuously until this writing. Another is Mrs. Mary Schill, who became a mem- ber in 1913, and in 1915 we find her making the Mite-box report, which she has done annually up to the present year. Miss Carrie Webb, a little English girl, an orphan, came to us, with friends. She soon became self-supporting in a business office and very faithful in the work of the church. She served us as Treasurer for six years, and did wonderful work. When she died she left the savings which she had accumulated to Lake Bluff orphanage near Chicago. Mrs. Carrie Kemble Lewis, one of our charter members, served as Treas- urer six years, also Mrs. Mary Sala for the same length of time. For many years we were known as a Home Mission Circle, but now are known as "The Woman's Home Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church of the Illinois Conference". 79 100 YEARS OF METHODISM 80 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Our Newly Decorated Church 1 HE First Methodist Episcopal Church faces its second century in a completely new dress. The year nineteen thirty-five witnessed the completion of foregoing repairs of the exterior of the church at a cost of fifty-five hundred dollars. In nineteen thirty-six the congregation loyally subscribed an additional amount of fifty-four hundred dollars to redecorate the interior. The walls are newly painted, the woodwork refinished, fine new carpets cover the floors of the main auditorium and parlors. Modern lighting fixtures il- luminate our rooms. The Primary room has been carpeted, the floor of the Annex restained and new coverings down the isles. Several of these improvements were made possible through the generosity of various members and friends of the congregation who gave in addition to their original pledges. The Epworth League also caught the spirit and they themselves refinished the basement of the old building for a recreation room. The raising of the sum between eleven and twelve thousand is a large undertaking and the church may well be proud of this achievement. The committee is grateful for the fine spirit shown by the congregation throughout this work, and the committee and congregation alike are deeply indebted to Mr. Lynn H. Ewing, without whose unceasing effort and almost daily presence at the church during the progress of the work, its successful completion could not have been accomplished. Committee : Mrs. Miriam Walker Weeks Mrs. John Souders Mr. Fred Milow Judge Warren Orr Mr. L. R. Mace. 81 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Ella Taylor Auxiliary of the Woman's Home Missionary Society By Mrs. Fred J. Milow IN June, 1906, a group of girls and boys of the First Methodist Episcopal Church organized un- der the leadership of Miss Ida Bowen, and be- came known as the Silver Circle. The boys of the group seemed to find other interest, and soon dropped out, so that the society was re-organized in 1910 as the Queen Esther Circle under the sponsorship of Mrs. C. L. Lutes, with Miss Ida Bowen leader until 1911, when Miss Ella Taylor was appointed to take charge. She continued as leader until 1927 (with the exception of 1916, when Miss Mabel Smutz took charge of the groups). Miss Taylor has been an inspiration to the Circle in all its un- dertakings, and has endeared herself not only here but to the ladies of the Home Missionary Society of the Central Illinois Conference, of which she served as Treasurer for thirty years. So that it seemed fitting, when the young women of the church again reorganized in 1929, that they become known as the Ella Taylor Auxiliary of the Woman's Home Missionary Society. Although many changes have taken place and the membership has fluctuated, there are still six members who have been active for fourteen years, and a few of these hold even a longer record of membership and good works. This year there are nineteen members, and the following have served the Ella Taylor Auxiliary as Presidents : 1926— Mrs. Ralph Dotv 1932— Mrs. Fred Milow 1927— Mrs. Melville Hodge 1933— Mrs. Alfred Boyd 1928— Mrs. Charles Motz, Jr. 1934 — Mrs. Harold Baker 1929— Mrs. Glenn Cooper 1935— Mrs. Harold Baker 1930— Miss Ruth Clement 1936— Mrs. Clarence Moe 1931— Mrs. John Minteer 82 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS The Epworth League b 7 c Ray mison yfpp*fc METHODISM has always stood for individ- f l» ua ^ r *&ht s an< ^ opportunity for self-expression as a religious faith, it grew out of convictions of a small group of eighteenth century Oxford Uni- versity students, who contended that religion should be a very personal matter, a force to stir man's conscience, inspire good deeds, promote fellowship, and prepare for devoted, competent and active spiritual life. The Epworth League movement exempli- fies these ideals in its training of youth. One of the earliest distinguishing marks of Methodism was the class meeting. Gathering either at the homes of members or in the church edifice itself, the Communicants developed a type of relig- ious service which combined training and worship, and was the fore- runner of the more recent prayer meeting. When leaders were available and numbers warranted, those present would be divided into groups, each with its own conductor. In larger congregations, at least one such group would be composed of young people. Rock Island First Church contained such a class, not formally organized, without officers or dues, but meeting every week for year after year under the guidance of Mr. E. W. Spencer. So long and faithfully did he serve in this position, that none of the older mem- bers of the congregation have come forward to say that they remem- ber any other leader prior to the time that Mr. Spencer left this com- munity to take up his residence in California. Mr. Charles E. Adams succeeded Mr. Spencer, assuming the difficult task of following a man who had been considered indispen- sible. Mr. Adams was a faithful leader and guided the destinies of the younger men and women for several years, until the organiza- tion of the present Epworth League. For a brief period during the term of Mr. Adams' leadership, the work was carried on under the name of the Methodist Alliance. Members were required to sign pledges to abstain from dancing, card games, theatre attendance and similar amusements. It is said that some who maintained good attendance records would not sign r 83 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM this pledge, although they were willing to express oral acceptance of the same prohibitions, when applying for church membership. This group was flourishing during the period that the present church building was under construction, and continued to function until reorganized as an Epworth League Chapter, as related in a later paragraph. Some of the members recall having been present at an evening party of the society held in the home of Miss Grace Stur- geon (Mrs. John Freeman), near Fifth Avenue and Twenty First Street. After adjournment, each of the guests homeward bound paused at the partially-completed new church to collect a brick sal- vaged from the predecessor house of worship. These bricks were taken as souvenirs, and in some instances were retained for many years as mementoes of the old church home. Following the Civil War period, organized young peoples work began to spread throughout the church. For several years, the move- ment was exceedingly simple in its outward form. There was no single centralized headquarters or authority, but many local groups, some wholly isolated and independent, others affiliated with similar bands in nearby communities. Gradually, most of the local societies sought membership in leagues or associations. Eventually, there were approximately forty of these associations in American Metho- dism, all zealous and striving earnestly in Christian endeavor. Lack of co-ordination however, interfered seriously with the work, mak- ing large scale undertakings impossible. Mere existence was a strug- gle for the majority of these organizations, with neither energy nor money available for the development of lesson materials or exchange of ideas. Some far-sighted Churchmen viewed this situation with great con- cern, realized the need for efficient young people's work, and envis- ioned the service which might be rendered by a strong, aggressive and united movement. They met to consider what might be done. Merits of competing organizations were debated pro and con by enthusiastic partisans. It soon became apparent that sentiment was overwhelmingly in favor of one all-embracing organization. It was equally evident that group loyalties were too strong to permit any one to absorb the others, or give its name to a new united order. Among the more influential societies participating were the "Ep- worth Alliance" and the ''Oxford League." There is a story which says that one speaker, either intentionally or thru slip of the tongue, [84] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS used the expression "Epworth League". This combination of the names of two leading contenders immediately impressed all present as a happy choice, and was speedily adopted as the official title of Methodisms' organized youth. Methodist Alliance members quickly recognized the merits of centralized effort, and soon voted to affiliate with the newly-christ- ened Epworth League. One of the first charters issued was granted to the youh of our congregation, and a chapter was organized with Prof. L. C. Daugherty elected to serve as the first president, under his fine leadership, local Leaguers became a power in the church. In addition to the Sunday night devotional services, there were monthly meetings of a literary-social nature. Current authors and their works were studied, members gave recitations and debated is- sues of the day, and there were games and refreshments. Mrs. Daugherty's interest in the work equalled that shown by her hus- band, and together they arranged most of the program. These meetings offered both entertainment and culture during those years when comparatively few young men and women had the advantages of higher education. Undoubtedly these meetings inspired in many a youngster a keen thirst for knowledge and a lasting affection for literature. Of course, the games and refreshments must have been powerful attractions in those days of more limited social life, and many a marriage climaxed friendship formed at League meetings. No history of our youth activities can be complete without some mention of the Junior League and Intermediate League. These served boys and girls in the lower age brackets, and although not sponsored by the senior League, the latter did, nevertheless, supply both inspiration and leadership for the younger groups. Junior League was organized at a meeting in the church on Sun- day afternoon, November 22, 1891, at which time the Pastor, Rev. Merrill, and Miss Ella Taylor outlined plans for the new society. Their explanations meeting with favor, those present enrolled as members and elected their first officers, as follows : President Miss Ella Taylor Secretary Jennie Sturgeon Treasurer Leonard Totten Pianist Nettie Coyne After this beginning, the Junior Leaguers met every Sunday af- ternoon for nearly nineteen years, until Sunday, June 1, 1910, when [85] 100 YEARS OF METHODISM they adjourned for the approaching summer and never resumed their meetings. Throughout its entire life, this group was conducted by Miss Ella Taylor. Her long years of service won for her the es- teem and love of the hundreds of girls and boys who passed through the ranks of the Junior League. Equally notable was the work of the Intermediate League, which met at 6:30 P. M. each Sunday for many years. Sessions of this organization were very similar to those of the Epworth League, and were of the utmost importance in retaining our youth during those years after they had outgrown the Junior League and were yet too young to find the Epworth League congenial. Miss Ida Bowen (now Mrs. De Courdes) led this Intermediate group for many years. To her goes a large share of the credit for holding our young folks to the church until they were ready to enter upon adult ac- tivities. Without the Junior and Intermediate Leagues under the devoted leadership of the Misses Taylor and Bowen, many a youngster might never have become known as a useful church member in later life. Our Diamond Jubilee year of 1911 found presidency of Mr. S. E. Mattison, Jr. This is one of the most devoted individuals ever to participate in our local League work. For many years, he was one of the mainstays, always present and ready to take his part, helpful in his advice to the younger folks. Long after most of his contemporaries had transferred their interest to other departments of congregational activity, he maintained his active interest in the organization, and did so without any neglect of other phases of church life. His league endeavor was only additional evidence of his all-round churchmanship. Our society suffered a real loss when he removed to California several years ago. Word of his very re- cent death revived memories of S. E. Mattison, Jr.'s service to our young people. The second decade of the century, especially the years from 1911 to 1917 witnessed intense interest in local League work. Meetings were always well attended by members willing to serve as leaders or participate in discussions, gaining training and self-confidence which made them willing to undertake other forms of church work, especially Sunday School class teaching. It has always seemed to the writer that no organization of this type could possess more morale and enthusiasm than our League [86] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS did at that time. Devotional meetings, social affairs, proportion of members really active throughout the church, contributions to wel- fare projects of the Conference, Thanksgiving and Christmas do- nations to the poor — all these gave evidence of a successful enter- prise. But these excellent conditions were not accidental. It is not unfair to the many faithful workers to say that the mainspring of all this activity was the custom of Lynn H. Ewing, our present Church School Superintendent, Ralph E. Koerber, now a resident of Pitts- burgh, Pa., and a few others week after week to urge scores of per- sons to attend the League service the following Sunday. There is no substitute for efficient and persistent personal work. It will bring success to any group with worthy objectives. The World War interfered with our League, as it did with everything else. Most of the young men members left to "do their bit" and those others who remained here found their energies ab- sorbed by Red Cross and similar war activities. However, the Ar- mistice ushered in a better day. Members returning from service joined with those who had remained in the city to revive interest in the organization. Again the League became a power for good in the church as a whole. It has maintained its momentum to the pres- ent time and is still going strong. In this Centennial year of 1936 our League fills an important place in the Church. Present officers elected October 11, 1936, are listed in the appropriate section of this book. These officers meet in cabinet session at 3 :00 P. M. on the first Sunday of each month. Devotional meetings begin at 6:30 P. M. each Sunday and con- tinue for one hour in the large assembly room adjoining the 'church auditorium on the west. Since the beginning of the present confer- ence year, topics are taken from a course of studies, titled "Christ- ian Youth Building a New World". These subjects are presented both by members and guest speakers as leader. The annual Epworth League Institute at the Camp Grounds brings large numbers of our Methodist youth together during a few days each summer for instruction, fellowship and a revival of in- spiration. Our own Leaguers have taken advantage of the proxim- ity of this camp and attend in large numbers every year. For many years our church has lacked proper facilities for rec- reation. This need is now being met thru initiative of our League Chapter which has undertaken the improvement of the basement [87 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM underneath the room accommodating the League meetings and the Junior Department of our Sunday School. Rubbish has been re- moved, a concrete floor laid, walls painted and lighting fixtures in- stalled at a total cost of $325.00. Donations of pictures, books, magazines, lamps and furniture have permitted the partial furnish- ing of this room. Equipment is provided for Ping Pong, Shuffle Board and other games. More paint and the installation of radiators will complete the remodeling, and give the young people a splendid room for regular meetings and recreation. The Leaguers, themselves, conceived this project, raised the money to finance the cost, and performed a large share of the labor. These quarters will serve through the years to come as a testimony to the initiative, resourcefulness and persistence of our young people. The League and Church will prosper in their hands. These are momentous years, full of fear for many, but offering rich promise of a new day if we will to face the future with faith and courage. The rapid advance of Science, with its annihilation of distance, marvelous mechanical development and uncanny chemical discoveries, is remaking this world and rushing us toward decisions which we cannot escape — decisions which we should scorn to evade. War and peace — racial contacts — clash of political and economic systems — increase of leisure time — new amusements — popular use of modern inventions — to mention only a few of the problems which have already begun their relentless and everlasting drive into the world's consciousness — differ in outward form from those facing any previous generation, yet are identical in principle with those which have confronted man from the beginning of time — and call for the same elements in humanity — a high regard for Truth and an overwhelming desire to find it whatever it may be and wherever found — purity of motive — courage of conviction — sense of respon- sibility — honor — humility — a deep religious faith. This is the challenge to today's youth, who will face the future with heads high and eyes shining, marching unfalteringly to victory if they will but keep enshrined in their heart the great truths of Life and Religion embodied in the teachings of the Epworth League and kindred societies. The Epworth League must and will continue to be an important part of Methodism's contribution to the future of mankind. [88 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS The Sunday School By c a. wdker r% 1 T is only fitting at this, the one hundredth an- niversary of the organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Rock Island, that the Sun- day School, which is so vital to the life of the church, should be given appropriate mention. The first Sunday School in Rock Island county of which there is any record was organ- ized at the home of Joel M. Wells in the village Moline in 1835. This Sunday School was not denominational and was open to all children but under protestant leadership. The first Sunday School in the city of Rock Island, (then the town of Stephenson) was organized in 1837 in a small frame school house located near where the Court House now stands. This was a union school also. This was before the time of prepared Sunday School lessons and the Bible as it was written was the text book used. Memorizing the scripture was one of the important features in the training given. In a contest for a prize, one of the pupils of this school repeated more than six hundred verses. The First Methodist Sunday School in Rock Island was organ- ized in 1844 with J. W. Van Sant as superintendent. On July 4th, 1845, a union Sunday School picnic was held in a grove in the lower part of Rock Island. The town of Stephenson having been changed to Rock Island in 1841, at which time it was incorporated as a city. While this picnic was in progress the news came that Colonel Davenport had been murdered in his home on the Island, which is now the location of the Government Arsenal. The first Methodist Church building was erected in 1844 under the pastorate of Rev. Searles. This building was fifty feet long by forty feet wide and was erected at a cost of about $4,000.00. From this time on the history of the Sunday School runs with the history of the church. Space makes it impossible to give the names of all those promi- nently identified with the school from its organization in 1844 to the present time, but the superintendents under whose direction the ac- [89] 100 YEARS OF METHODISM tivities of the Sunday School have been carried on will be mentioned and the terms of their service. J. W. Van Sant served from 1845 to 1853. Captain Van Sant was the owner and Captain of a steam boat which plied on the Mis- sissippi River and was one of the very early settlers of the commun- ity. He was the father of S. R. Van Sant who was an early gov- ernor of Minnesota. E. W. Spencer served from 1853 to 1874. Was re-elected in 1875 and served until 1887. Mr. Spencer was the first white child born in the city of Rock Island and was the son of Judge Spencer, who is regarded as the father of Methodism in this vicinity. E. D. Sweeney served from 1874 to 1875. Was a prominent at- torney and a lifelong member of the Methodist Church and Sunday School. J. F. Robinson served from 1887 to 1892. Re-elected in 1894 and served until 1896. Re-elected in 1897, serving until 1901. Died in 1902. We quote from a tribute from a friend under the caption of "A Blameless Life" : "The death of James Franklin Robinson brings sorrow to his many friends. As a youth and a man he was without vices, lived uprightly before God and man Most lives can be estimated by striking a balance of debits and credits, but here is one that in the searching eyes of his friends at least, shows no entries on the debit side." David J. Sears served from 1892 to 1894. Mr. Sears was a prominent manufacturer in Rock Island and was highly honored by fraternal organizations of which he was a member. A busy man who found time to serve the Sunday School of his church for two years as its superintendent. L. C. Daugherty served from 1896 to 1897. Mr. Daugherty was principal of one of Rock Island's schools for many years. Was teacher of one of the adult Bible classes in the Sunday School for nineteen years. Was always ready to take his place where duty called him. S. S. Kemble served from 1901 to 1904. Mr. Kemble was con- nected with the public schools of Rock Island for thirty-nine years. No man among us was more widely known or more highly respected. Died in 1919. S. J. Ferguson served from 1904 to 1909. Mr. Ferguson was County Superintendent of Schools for many years. Was a teacher r 90 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS of a class of young men in the Sunday School. Was one of the out- standing men of the community who did his full share in the pro- gram of character building. H. J. Olmsted served from 1909 to 1916. Filled the unexpired term of Edwin Dice in 1917 and 1918. Mr. Olmsted was connected with the Modern Woodmen of America. A man of outstanding ability who was never known to refuse responsibility regardless of how difficult the service might be. His death in 1919 while serving the Sunday School as librarian was a loss the School felt deeply. Edwin Dice served from 1915 to 1917. Mr. Dice was a court reporter. He was recognized as an able organizer and served the Sunday School well as a superintendent and it was with regret the Board accepted his resignation in March, 1917, when his duties necessitated his taking up residence in Washington, D. C. H. K. Walker served from 1918 to 1924. Re-elected in 1927 and served until 1929. Mr. Walker is in the Real Estate and Insurance business in Rock Island. He has served the Sunday School in prac- tically all capacities. He was an able Superintendent and always stood ready to accept any responsibility in connection with the work of the School. C. J. Shaw served from 1924 to 1927. Mr. Shaw was Superin- tendent of the Rock Island Y. M. C. A. He took an active interest in the work of the Sunday School immediately on becoming a resident of this city. His ability and training fitted him for the duties of Superintendent of the School. C. Ray Wilson served from 1929 to 1930. Mr. Wilson is an ac- countant by profession and has served the Sunday School as a teacher of one of its important classes. His term as Superintendent was highly satisfactory. C. G. Williams served from 1930 to 1932. Mr. Williams was in charge of the Insurance Rating Office in this territory. He served the School as teacher for a number of years and his ability and good judgment made him the choice for Superintendent when a vacancy occurred. It was with regret that the Board learned that his busi- ness made necessary his taking residence in another city. Lynn H. Ewing. Mr. Ewing is engaged in the Art Engraving business. He has been a valued member of the School for many years, serving as a teacher and in other positions. His choice for the office of Superintendent of the School was but the logical out- [91 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM come of the splendid service he had rendered in other departments. Xo accurate estimate can be made as to the number of children and youth who have come under the influence of these men and their co-workers, or to total the net results of this one hundred years of character building. With the growth of the church, the Sunday School has grown and expanded until today there are many classes with a large enroll- ment. For seven years Mr. J. A. Burton, the principal of our High School, conducted an orchestra of 15, and at times 20 pieces, which added much to our School. The teachers are trained leaders and many of them hold diplomas from the Board of Education of the Methodist Episcopal Church for the completion of its Standard Teachers' Training Course. As the Sunday School organization stands today, we have the following departments : the Beginners, the Primary, the Junior, the Intermediate, the Senior and the Adult classes, together with a Home Department for the shut-ins and those unable to attend the regular Sunday School. BEGINNERS DEPARTMENT Realizing the special needs of children whose ages ranged from two to nine years, the Beginners Department was organized in Oc- tober, 1916, with Mrs. H. J. Olmsted as superintendent. She served for eighteen years, an efficient and beloved leader, and was succeeded in 1934 by Miss Ruth Clement, who so ably heads the department now. In May, 1932, the Cradle Roll Department, which had been a part of the Beginners class, was organized as a part of the Church School. It is supervised by Mrs. W. B. Griffith. Beginners Department Cradle Roll Department 1916-34— Mrs. H. J. Olmsted 1916-18— Mrs. N. G. Griffith 1934-36— Miss Ruth Clement 1918-24— Mrs. C. C. Myers 1924-26— Mrs. Wm. Woodin 1926-28— Mrs. Wm. Paulsen 1928-32— Mrs. E. A. Sheldon 1932-33— Mrs. Louis Reschke 1933-35— Mrs. Ray Patterson 1935-36— Mrs. W. B. Griffith The Junior Department is under Mrs. J. W. Lawhead, and the following have served as superintendent since 1916: r 92 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS 1916-18— Mrs. E. H. Clement 1923-29— Mrs. Ernest Simpson 1918-20— Mrs. Wm. Paulsen 1929-36— Mrs. J. W. Lawhead 1920-23— Mrs. O. J. Stirratt Mrs. F. J. Milow is now superintendent of the Intermediate De- partment, and those who have preceeded her have been : 1916-17— Mr. H. K. Walker 1925-29— Mrs. C. D. Snyder 191718— Mr. J. F. Witter 1929-30— Mrs. E. Chandler 1918-21— Mr. C. A. Walker 1930-31— Mrs. E. H. Clement 1921-23— Airs. C. G. Williams 1931-33— Mrs. E. L. Strate 1923-25— Mrs. J. H. Miller 1933-36— Mrs. F. J. Milow The Senior Department, whose motto is "We Build for Christ", works under the direction of Mrs. E. H. Clement, and those who have had charge of this department of the Sunday School since the days of the reorganization have been as follows : 1916-17— Mr. H. J. Olmsted 1929-30— Mr. E. I. Stockhus 1917-18— Mr. H. K. Walker 1930-31— Mrs. J. C. Souders 1918-29— Mr. L. H. Ewing 1931-36— Mrs. E. H. Clement A few outstanding teachers and workers in the Sunday School of long ago, not mentioned elsewhere in this paper were, Mr. J. L. Freeman, the seventy-fifth jubilee historian of our church and a faithful teacher in the Sunday School ; Mr. William Jackson, chair- man of the seventy-fifth jubilee committee ; Mr. J. T. Noftsker, choirister and teacher for many years; Mrs. M. M. Sturgeon, Mr^. Helen Walker Northrup, and Mrs. J. W. Frizelle. [93] Superintendents of Sunday School 1843-1937 J. W. Van Sant E. W. Spencer E. D. Sweeney 1843-53 1853-74 1874-75 1875-87 J. F. Robinson David J. Sears L. C. Daugherty S. S. Kemble 1892-94 1896-97 1887-92 1894-96 1897-01 S. J. Ferguson H. T. Olmsted Edwin Dice 1904-09 1909-16 1916-17 1917-18 C. J. Shaw C. Ray Wilson C. G. Williams 1924-27 1929-30 1930-32 1901-04 H. K. Walker 1918-24 1927-29 Lynn H. Ewing 1932-37 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Adult Bible Classes By Mrs Lynn H. Ewing 1 HE history of organized Adult Bible Classes in the First Methodist Episcopal Church of Rock Island, can only begin with the classes now in existence, and the rather recently discontinued Olive T. Daugherty Memorial Class, which wa i ; for many years under the leadership of Mr. L. C. Daugherty and Miss Julia Battles. Other classes, no doubt, were organized, held their meet- ings, and did a Social Service in both the church and community in the years that are passed, but records are so fragmentary and im- complete that they cannot now be gathered into an authentic record. The large and active Adult Department in our Sunday School indicates that many whose names are now lost to us, had a part in developing our Sunday School to its present highest state of or- ganization. The Harriett Henderson Memorial Bible Class was organ- ized January 9, 1910, as a memorial class in honor of Harriett Hen- derson, who had long taught a Sunday School Class in a little room at the east end of the old church balcony. Mrs. Elmore Hurst taught an adult class in the little room at the east end of the old church balcony, and when she gave up the class, Miss Harriett Hen- derson was chosen as teacher. In this class room about 15 members crowded about their teacher, who sat behind a small table. Miss Henderson had lately come to the First Methodist Church from the Ninth Street Methodist Church, where she had been an active mem- ber, and was a real addition to our church and Sunday School. Miss Henderson passed away January 9, 1909, and for one year, no one could be found to take the place of the beloved teacher. Various members taught, and from time to time they visited with other classes, but were unwilling to break up their organization. During this time Mr. W. L. Tallman, was president of the class. On Sun- day, January 9, 1910, the pastor, Rev. R. B. Williams, and the Sun- day School Superintendent, S. J. Ferguson, suggested an organiza- tion of memorial class. Mr. McGash of Davenport, explained the advantages of the organization and how to organize, and a temporary [95[ 100 YEARS OF METHODISM organization was effected with Mr. Eugene Johnson as temporary president, Miss Stella Bollman temporary secretary. On January 31, 1910, a class social was held at the home of F. K. Rhoads, where a permanent organization was made and the name of Harriett Hen- derson Memorial Bible Class of the First M. E. Church chosen as the name of the class. The temporary officers were made the regular officers of the new organization. Miss Iva Pearce became the first teacher of the class and continued until October 16, 1910, when the wife of the newly appointed pastor. Mrs. T. E. Xewland, became the teacher of the class. The class grew rapidly to an attendance of 136, and during this period, the Sunday School Annex was built and the class settled in the northwest room in the balcony of the new build- ing. August 15, 1911, a class picture was taken at the home of Miss Ida Bowen, being framed and placed upon the wall of the class room. In October, 1914, Mrs. O. T. Dwinell, pastor's wife, became the teacher. Following her in 1916, Mrs. S. E. Mattison, then S. E. Mattison, Mrs. Xaomi Chaney, and on December 8, 1925, Mr. H. P. Brown, who continues teaching to this present time. The first class banquet was held April 8, 1910, with Dr. W. E. Martin toastmaster, and 50 members present. She Charter was closed with 22 ladies and 18 men having joined the class. At the second annual banquet in April, 1911, with Miss Iva Pearce, toast- mistress, there were 70 present. In 1912 the third annual banquet was held with 80 present. An offering being taken at that time of $32.35. Professor L. L. Karns presented to the class the table, teach- er's desk and a chair with H. H. M. C. carved upon it. He also sug- gested the class slogan still in use : "Use me, or lose me." Miss Millicent Spencer presented an American Flag which hangs in the class room. The class purchased its own chairs and made a gift of $250.00 to the building of the annex. The class has donated to the Y. M. C. A. building fund, to a lot in South Heights for a Mission, and has given flowers for the church pulpit and shut-ins, and made many other special contribu- tions to the welfare of the church and community. Xo one can measure the good done by a class such as this, nor mark the limits of its influence. COVE X A XT BIBLE CLASS The Covenant Bible Class was known as Class Xo. 4, and met in the old Sunday School room under the balcony just south of the r 96 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS old library room. The teachers of the class during that period were Mr. C. A. Atkinson, Mrs. Wm. A. Lovett, and Mr. F. K. Rhoads, who remained as teacher for 15 years. The class was organized February 27, 1910, and the following officers elected : Teacher Mr. F. K. Rhoads President Mrs. Murrell Lindorf Vice-President Mrs. W. E. Martin Secretary Miss Ethel Yetts Treasurer Mary Dickman The name Covenant Bible Class was chosen, colors red and white selected, a covenant adopted, and a class banner purchased. The constitution called for semi-annual election of officers, but at the end of six months, was changed to annual elections. In the 26 years the class has been organized, it has had 26 presidents : Mesdames Murrill Lindorf, N. Griffith, Wm. Paulsen, Miss Mary Knox, Mrs. W. E. Martin, Miss Clara Van Galder, Mesdames C. H. Langman, I. O. Schultze, J. F. Witter, Mrs. Ray Reddig, C. G. Williams, Emma Bruner, Mrs. E. O. Noach, Mrs. M. C. McClain, Mrs. F. E. Sudlow, Mrs. E. J. Shaw, Mrs. Floyd E. Thompson, Mrs. Sidney Carney, Mrs. Ellsworth Ash, Mrs. L. L. Hance, Mrs. E. E. Corey, Mrs. Margaret Lamont, Mrs. Gertrude Sala, Mrs. W. D. Starnes, Mrs. M. F. Runyon, Mrs. E. S. Barkhurst and Mrs. C. C. Babcock. The class meets on the second Thursday of each month and di- vides its work under four committees : devotions, membership, social and executive. An annual banquet or picinc has been held each year. The class has made gifts during the years of a wheel chair, blankets and clothing to the visiting nurse, $250.00 to the building fund. In 1921 the class pledged $200.00 toward decorating the church auditorium. Donations have also been made to the Sunday School Piano Fund, the Sunday School library, Deaconess salary, song books, and many other special donations to the work of our hospitals, old folks homes, Y. W. C. A. and Rescue Mission. On one occasion the class decorated a float for a civic parade and won a $25.00 scholarship at Brown's Business College for the best deco- rated float. The class met in their new room which is the southwest room of the Sunday School annex balcony on Christmas morning. 1914, and since that time has painted the room, provided new rugs and chairs, and decorated the walls with a reproduction of the great painting, "Christ before Pilot," the picture being presented by Mr. A. M. Bruner. The teachers who followed Mr. Rhoads were Miss [97 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Iva Pearce, Mrs. C. C. McCowen, Mrs. W. I. Lavender and the present teacher, Mrs. C. H. Langman. THE FELLOWSHIP BIBLE CLASS The first business meeting was held December 12, 1922. Meet- ing was opened by the Rev. Joseph Chapman and a general discus- sion of plans for organizing a class followed. Mr. Chas. E. Adams was suggested as teacher, and a nominating committee appointed. On January 16, 1923, the group met and organized with the follow- ing officers : Joe Chapman, president ; A. Pearson, vice-president ; Amy Genung, secretary; Ruth Bradford, treasurer. Raymond R. Walker suggested the name Fellowship Bible Class, and it was adopted. Mr. Justin Washburn soon became the teacher of the class and served until 1935, when he resigned to act as pastor of Xew Boston Church. C. Ray Wilson was elected, and has continued until the present time. Fifteen presidents have served during the life of the class. They are as follows : Joe Chapman Harold R. Olmsted Ray R. Walker Margaret Lamont Harold R. Olmsted John H. Aldrich Franklin Bell Fred J. Milow John H. Shantz George E. Gregg Earl A. Stockhus Francis Barker C. Ray Wilson Mrs. John H. Shantz On April 20, 1926, the class met in their new class parlor with 12 members and 5 visitors present. The class has continued to grow through the years and has served the church through its various do- nations of money and flowers and through its visiting committee, who have been active in keeping in touch with the class members who were not regular in attendance. The class has decorated the Christ- mas Tree for the church each year and has provided many teachers from its membership for other classes in the Sunday School. The present class membership is 50, with an average attendance of about 30. FRIENDSHIP CLASS The Friendship Class is the one organized class in the school which did not grow out of one of the numbered classes, but was gath- ered together by the Sunday School Superintendent, L. H. Ewing, as a group of young married people, and organized into a Sunday School [98 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS class. Mr. Otto Allen has been the teacher of the class during the three years it has been in existence. The first president of the class was Walter F. Shoulda, who continued as president for two terms. The present president is Mrs. Kenneth Hotchkiss. The class mem- bership is 30, with an average attendance of 15. This class changes membership rather rapidly, as the young mar- ried couples move in and out of town, but has continued to grow in interest and number under the fine leadership of its teacher. Its membership committee and social committee are especially active and monthly meetings and socials are held either in the homes of the members or in the church basement. Meil ? S Bible ClaSS By George H. Campbell IN two respects this story of the Men's Bible Class is like Caesar's Commentaries — it is written in haste and based on the memories of living men. And like the history of Civilization, its origins are lost in the mists of antiquity. Apparently there were three sources. S. J. Ferguson, in 1905, then County Superintendent of Schools, had a class of boys. Some of these later joined the Brotherhood, with other men. This latter or- ganization grew, bloomed and faded. But before fading out, it called to its assistance some of the men who were members of the Harriett Henderson Class. These men, uniting with the remnants of the Brotherhood, formed the Men's Bible Class, in 1909. Wm. J. Lavender was teacher; Chas. Adams, C. A. Walker, F. O. Van Galder, Jean Mattison, Chas. C. Myers and Ernest Stapp were among the members. The class has had some distinguished teachers: William J. Lav- ender, F. O. Van Galder, O. J. Stirratt, C. J. Shaw, J. F. Witter, C. Ray Wilson and G. H. Campbell. The first four named were, or had been Y. M. C. A. secretaries. The members of this class have always taken an active interest in church work. Tn 1914, under the direction of Wm. J. Lavender and Chas H. Langman, the men made the dining tables now used in the basement. [99 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM About this time Roy Freeman bought a piano for $100.00, and the class paid for it. It is still in use. In 1934 the Class bought the material and built a two-stall gar- age at the parsonage. These three enterprises illustrate the truth that it is easy to get people to do the things they are interested in : eating, entertainment and autos — three things dear to a man's heart. These achievements represent but a small part of the work which the members have done in and for the church. Always there has been a faithful group most interested in searching the Scriptures for eternal truths. Activity in the class seems to have been synonymous with church activity. This year twenty members of the class are also members of the Official Board. For the last two years 48% of the attendance at the Official Board meetings has been by members from this class. The present class officers are : Will C. Barker, president ; D. C. Griffith, vice-president; J. C. Bodewig, secretary; C. C. Myers, treas- urer; G. H. Campbell, teacher, and L. E. Dodson, assistant teacher. 100 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS The Choir, The Organ and The Bell By Mrs. R. W. Van Trump O INCE in early times the music and singing was considered more important than written records, it makes it difficult to give a precise history of the choir. From the melodeon time to that of the pipe organ, there was congregational singing with occasional solos and quartet numbers. With the installation of the first pipe organ came the or- ganizing of a choir under the efficient leadership of Mr. E. W. Spencer, a man who was beloved by all who sang under his direction. He was a tireless worker as Superintendent of the Sunday School and choir leader, teaching and training the young- er voices of the Sunday School and placing them in the choir when old enough, always having a full and efficient roster. The personnel of one of his choirs follows : Hanna Mills Clark Martha Mills Parrett Lucy Henderson Morey Ella Taylor Jennie Taylor Amy Sweeney Kenfield Sara Coyne Adams Flora Coyne Lucy Coyne Van Trump Anna Stafford Kough Tillie Hardy Arp (mother of the present Mayor' of Moline) Ida Bowen Rich Ellen Phelp Ella Wilcox Van Koerkritz Lissie Detlefsen Johnston [da Martin Jennie Williams Norris Margaret Wilson Carrie Jackson Barth Jennie Dickman Walker Dollie Bailey Shaw Lelia Bailey Drieps At this time Miss Mary Rhoads was organist and Dr. John Tay- lor, then a little fellow, was an important member, as he pumped the organ. The entire membership of this choir was not always present, Flora Hadsei Susie Thompsen Brazier Fannie Knox Mina Bowen Jennie Allen Spencer J. T. Noftsker Ed Lucky Sewel Dodge Charles Adams J. Frank Robinson Edward Huntley Mr. Graves Frank Collins Stephen Collins Edward Collins Will Collins Frank Hadsei Wesley Phelp John Parrett J. L. Freeman J. H. Stombs H. R. Housel 101 100 YEARS OF METHODISM but they gave their services whenever possible during the years of Mr. Spencer's leadership. A number of romances were woven into its history. Best remembered among these were Mary Rhoads and J. Frank Robinson, Martha Mills and John Parrett and Sara Coyne and Charles Adams. Mr. Spencer was always interested in these affairs, and most happy when marriage announcements were made. A choir which many today will remember consisted of : Ella Wilcox Van Koeckritz J. Frank Robinson Lottie Levy Willis Minnie Ransom Barker Gertrude Wilcox Sala J. A. Johnson Anny Levy Sewel Dodge Lucy Coyne Van Trump Frank Collins Clara Levy Stephen Collins Jennie Dickman Walker C. E. Adams Editha Kendall Mr. Lutz Dollie Bailey Shaw L. C. Daugherty Katherine Roseberry Keith Collins Mrs. Crandell W. L. Lavender Mable Campbell Totten Edward Huntley Mrs. Merrill (our minister's wife) Glen Reed Clara Hampton H. E. Van Duzer Lillian Kilpatrick J. T. Noftsker Under the leadership of D. S. Davies, a Welchman and a born musician, a fine choir leader and choirister, (later becoming organist consistory of the Masons for the State of Missouri), with Mrs. Frank Robinson again at the organ, assisted by "The Svea Quartet" of Augustana College and "The Choral Union" which Mr. Davies conducted, totaling 80 voices, rendered "The Messiah" for the first time by our choir, competing with a similar chorus of the First M. E. Church of Moline, sponsored by Mr. Charles Butterworth. Judges gave honors to both choruses. From this choir a mixed quartet — Sewel Dodge, Lucy Coyne Van Trump, Jennie Dickman Walker and Stephens Collins; a ladies quartet — Ella Wilcox Von Koeckritz, Lucy Coyne Van Trump, Gertrude Wilcox Sala and Mrs. Merrill ; and a ladies trio — Lucy Coyne Van Trump, Clara Hamp- ton and Mrs. Merrill, were always ready to furnish numbers for the various entertainments at the church also for our Ninth Street Church and other organizations that would call upon them. I may be pardoned of special mention of Ella Wilcox Von Koeckritz — she gave of her talents at the organ and in the choir; her voice was in- dividual, of a clear, lyric quality, particularly adapted to the singing of "The Star Spangled Banner." During Mr. Davies' leadership and later the choir was assisted by the cornetists — Nettie Coyne Mitch- [102 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS ell, Frank Woodyatt, Kinney Mack and Clyde Eberhard. Upon Mr. Spencer's moving to California, Professor H. R. Housel conducted the choir for many years. Succeeding him were D. S. Davies, Mrs. Edla Lund and L. C. Dougherty. From the year 1898, at which time the writer left Rock Island, the choir has been under efficient and able leadership. About this time Mrs. J. F. Witter became con- ductress, and under her direction the choir enjoyed a number of years of splendid service. Mrs. Witter, always gracious and willing, was called upon several times later to take over the leadership until the vacancy could be filled. Succeeding Mrs. W r itter were Prof. E. H. Philbrook, E. O. Donnell, Bertha Johanassen, Miss Nettles and Mrs. A. E. Williams, who conducted the choir until the years 1920 and 1921, during the pastorate of Rev. Chapman and under the di- rection of J. W. Johnston, the choir was reorganized. The personnel of this choir follows : Sara Totten Bee Perish Blanch Reed Cooper Gertrude Britton Gertrude Wilcox Sala Bertha Ewing Cooper Margaret Chapman Courtney Julia Marshall Gertrude Hance Gertrude Bodewig Marion Siemon Head Guy Bradford Marjorie Walker Motts Arthur Schmekel Verda Ewing Mr. Courtney Ruby Williams Mathers Francis Barker Marjorie Sala Harold Almstead Jean Wengert Laughlin Malcolm Eddy Stella Reed Humbledrahl Mr. Muench Louise Witter J. A. Johnson Ella Meyers Harold Baker Bess Clove Earnest Nickolas Mr. Xickolas was president and Bess Xoftsker was organist. At this time robes were purchased by "The Ladies Aid" and duly dedicated. Leaders following Mr. Johnson were: Mr. Plough, Mr. Tucker and Mr. Casseling. The choir with its various leaders has always given generously of its services, and we must acknowledge it a factor in the success and pleasure of all services of the church. THE ORGAN The first musical instrument in the church was a melodeon pur- chased in 1857, and first played by Harriett Hadsell Ferguson, who lived where the present parsonage now stands. The first pipe organ was purchased in 1871. It was pumped by hand and upon many occasions when the last hymn was announced, the congregation was [ 103 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM amused by lack of response from the organ, the organist waiting patiently until some member of the choir went back and awakened the pumper. The first organist was Clara Wilson Kretzinger. daughter of J. H. Wilson, one of the early substantial supporters of the church. Upon Miss Wilson's resignation, Miss Mary Rhoads, a highly accomplished, talented musician and a perfect accompanist, of Pekin, Illinois, was selected organist. She handled the organ with the greatest skill. It was a pleasure and a privilege to listen to her beautiful voluntaries and postludes ; one frequently lingered to enjoy them even unto the last note. Miss Rhoads remained organ- ist for many years, until her marriage to Mr. J. Frank Robinson in 1879. Mrs. Robinson was always ready to work and fill a vacancy at the organ, which she did upon several occasions during her very use- ful and active life in the church. The present organ was built by Hook & Hastings Co., of Kendal Green, Mass., in 1896. and pur- chased and presented to the church in that year by Capt. T. J. Robin- son, father of J. Frank Robinson. It was built especially for this church, encased in oak to harmonize with the surrounding woodwork, which was originally oak, and is not only magnificent in appearance and styles, but so in proportions, sound and its varied capabilities. It was dedicated by Clarence B. Eddy, of Chicago. Organists following Mrs. Robinson were : Hannah Mills Clark Edith Noftsker Lavender Mame Sargent Myrtle Sears Lee Carrie Jackson Barth Bess Noftsker Ella Wilcox VonKeockritz Gladys Tholander Prof. A. D. Bodfors, of Augustana Louis Brenton College THE BELL In the year 1869, during the pastorate of Rev. Dick Haney, our church bell was purchased at a cost of $1,200.00. At that time the congregation was small, so the assumption of such an obligation was a great one. Few people knew very much about "bells" in general. This one, a Hollbrook Bell, built in Philadelphia, Pa., now swing- ing from a new cradle recently installed in the belfry of the church, is a very exceptional one. Through all these years nothing has changed its deep, soft tones, and it still peals forth its summons to worship in the House of God. Mr. C. B. Knox, grandfather of Harry T. Knox, was a deacon and custodian of the church at that time, and had much to do with the purchase of the bell. [104] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Church Organizations CHICAGO AREA BISHOP ERNEST L. WALDORF QUARTERLY CONFERENCE District Superintendent Arthur Cates Pastor Ernest J. Campbell District Steward H. K. Walker Recording Steward Dr. C. W. Motz, Jr. Lay Delegate Fred E. Sudlow Musical Director Arthur E. Cassling Organist Miss Lois Brenton Custodian of Building George W. Mitchem Church Treasurer Harry Denecke Benevolence Treasurer Marshall C. McCain TRUSTEES 1937— Eli Bradford, C. A. Walker*, Sec, W. H. Mathers*. 1938— J. F. Witter, L, H. Ewing, H. K. Walker, Pres. 1939— J. C. Souders, M. T. Stevens, C. H. Langman. *Deceased. L. R. Mace, F. E. Sudlow to fill vacancies. STEWARDS Ackley, George W. Hirst, F. T. Reed, J. A. Allen, W. O. Hoge, Chas. A. Reschke, L. C. Brown, Herman P. Lavendar, William J. Ragsdale, Everett S. Bahringer, Frank Lovett, William A. Strate, S. L. Baker, Harold Lyon, M. H., Jr. Shantz, Tohn H. Curry, C. A. Mace, L. R. Sheldon, E. A. Campbell, Geo. H. McClain, M. C. Sherer, Harry A. Clement, E. H. Myers, C. C. Starnes, William D. Dunavin, E. H. Motz, Dr. C. W., Jr. Sudlow, F. E. Denecke, Harry Milow, Fred J. Wilson, C. Ray Daigh, B. G. Myers, Fred T Walker, R. R. Gosline, Nelson B. Nicholas, E. E. Williams, Dr. A. E. Gregg, George E. Olmsted, Harold R. Wright, Frank Griffith, William G. Pearse, M. R. Grant, W. C. Powers, W. D. COMMITTEES Membership — Pastor, E. L. Strate, Mrs. C. C. Myers, W. A. Lovett, Miss Josephine Cook, W. D. Starnes, Mrs. C. H. Langman, Frank Wright. Music— Mrs. H. P. Weeks, R. R. Walker, Mrs. L. L. Hance, Mrs. R. W. VanTrump, Mrs. W. H. Mathers, Mrs. J. F. Witter. Religious Education — Mrs. E. H. Clement, Miss Mary Snyder. Finance— H. K. Walker, L. H. Ewing, J. F. Witter, H. Denecke, C. H. Langman, W. O. Allen, J. C. Souders, F. S. Sudlow, M. C. McClain. Benevolence — M. C. McClain, B. G. Daigh, L. H. Ewing, Mrs. Leila Hodg- son, Clarence Moe, Justin Washburn. Auditing Accounts — C. Ray Wilson. Church Records — E. L. Strate. Parsonage — Ladies Aid Parsonage Committee. [ 105 1 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Pastoral Relations — J. F. Witter, L. H. Ewing, W. H. Mathers. Pastoral Supply — M. C. McClain, Ed Strate, J. C. Souders. Nominating— H. K. Walker. M. C. McClain, H. Denecke, W. O. Allen, Ed Strate. Dr. C. W. Motz, Jr. Temperance — H. P. Brown, Frank Barringer, L. R. Jones, W. C. Barker, F. K. Rhoads. House Committee — F. E. Sudlow, Chas. Langman, Fred J. Milow. Dramatics — M. C. McClain, Sam Etzel, Mrs. F. E. Sudlow, Chr., Epworth League Cabinet. OFFICIAL BOARD Chairman Ernest J. Campbell Vice-Chairman H. K. Walker Secretary George H. Campbell Treasurer Harry Denecke SUNDAY SCHOOL BOARD Officers General Superintendent L. H. Ewing Adult Superintendent M. C. McClain Senior Superintendent Mrs. E. H. Clement Intermediate Superintendent Mrs. F. J. Milow Junior Superintendent Airs. James W. Lawhead Primary Superintendent Mrs. H. K. Walker Beginner Superintendent Miss Ruth Clement Cradle Roll Superintendent Mrs. W. G. Griffith Assistant Cradle Roll Superintendent Mrs. L. C. Reschke Home Department Superintendent Mrs. C. C. Myers Temperance Superintendent Airs. W. B. Barker Secretary and Treasurer F. J. Milow Secretary of Sunday School Board Miss Helen Ash Librarian H. K. Walker Assistant Librarian Robert Wilson Sunday School Missionary Society President Mrs. C. M. Moe Vice-President Mrs. C. W. Motz Secretary E. A. Sheldon Treasurer M. C. McClain Teachers Cradle Roll Junior Mrs. Wm. G. Griffiths, Supt. Mrs. James W. Lawhead Mrs. Louis C. Reschke. Asst. Supt. Miss Amelia Traenkenschuh Beginners Miss Clara Redecker Miss Ruth Clement, Supt. Mrs - Mar 7, N° ac k Miss H. Parker Weeks, Asst. Supt. ?'"f rett Atkinson -,-> Milton Grothe Primary Mrs. Susan Van Hecke Mrs. H. K. Walker. Supt. Teachers Intermediate Mrs. Ellsworth G. Ash Mrs. Fred Milow, Supt. Miss Helen Hutchinson Miss Esther Rosenberg Miss Marian Kinsman Sam Etzel f 106 1 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Mrs. Archie Roe Miss Annie Grothe Archie Roe Mrs. F. T. Hirst George Hoare Mrs. M. C. McCain Miss Edna Pearce Dr. C. W. Motz, Jr. ~ George Stanford Senior C. E. Gabel Mrs. E. H. Clement, Snpt. Mrs. Wm. Barker Adult M. C. McClain, Superintendent Friendship Class W. O. Allen Fellowship Class C. Ray Wilson Business Girls Class Miss Media Hankins Rainbow Class Mrs. W. O. Allen Covenant Bible Class Mrs. C. H. Langman Harriet Henderson Bible Class H. P. Brown Home Department Superintendent Mrs. C. C. Myers Helper Mrs. R. W. Boyd Harriet Henderson Bible Class President Mrs. E. A Sheldon Vice-President Airs. G. H. Campbell Second Vice-President Mrs. A. W. Wurbs Secretary Lillian Cox Assistant Secretary Airs. T. S. Smith Treasurer Mrs. Mae S. Johnston Covenant Bible Class President Mrs. C. L. Babcock Vice-President Airs. Fred Sudlow Secretary Airs. H. P. Leonard Treasurer Airs. Chas. Myers Teacher Mrs. C. H. Langman Men's Bible Class President Wm. Barker Vice-President D. C. Griffith Secretary John Bodewig Treasurer Charles C. At vers Fellowship Bible Class President Mrs. John Shantz Vice-President Lee Fuller Secretary Airs. John H. Aid rich Treasurer Airs. C. Al. Moe Friendship Class President Airs. Kenneth Hotchkiss Vice-President Walter Shoulda Secretary-Treasurer Airs. C. H. Vandevort Historian Airs. Stedman Business Girls Class President Alargarct Allen [ 107 I 100 YEARS OF METHODISM LADIES AID President Mrs. W. D. Starnes Vice-President Mrs. C. D. Snyder Second Vice-President Mrs. L. L. Hance Secretary Mrs. Mary Noack Treasurer Mrs. E. S. Ragsdale HANNAH CIRCLE President Mrs. Sifford Johnson Vice-President Mrs. W. O. Allen Treasurer Mrs. Willard Powers Secretary Mrs. Stewart Mc Evoy ESTHER CIRCLE President Mrs. Mary Noack Vice-President Mrs. Frank Sala Secretary Mrs. John H. Shantz Treasurer Mrs. W. A. Lovett RUTH CIRCLE President Mrs. E. L. Dunavin Vice-President Mrs. F. J. Tonn Secretary Mrs. H. P. Leonard Treasurer Mrs. George Battles DEBORAH CIRCLE President Mrs. L. L. Hance Secretary Mrs. Mary Ash Treasurer Mrs. W. W. Clampitt woman's foreign missionary society President Mrs. Wm. Lavender Vice-President Mrs. W. M. Hodgson Secretary Miss Josephine Cook Corresponding Secretary Mrs. C. H. Langman Treasurer Mrs. L. L. Hance woman's home missionary society President Miss Bertha Hafel First Vice-President Mrs. Nellie Wise Second Vice-President Mrs. E. A. Seimon Third Vice-President Mrs. Mary Hombledal Recording Secretary Mrs. T. S. Smith Corresponding Secretary Mrs. L. R. Janes Treasurer Mrs. Minnie Johnson ELLA TAYLOR AUXILIARY OF HOME MISSIONARY SOCIETY President Mrs. C. M. Moe Vice-President Mrs. George Humphrey Treasurer Mrs. Stella Ehman Recording Secretary Mrs. Ernest J. Campbell MARY-MARTHA CIRCLE President Mrs. C. W. Motz, Jr. Vice-President Mrs. Melville H. Hodge Secretary Mrs. Kenneth Hotchkiss Treasurer Mrs. Finni Johnston 108 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS EPWORTH LEAGUE CABINET Supervisor Dr. C W. Motz President Chester Sheldon First Vice-President Mary Elizabeth Birdsell Second Vice-President Charlotte Schroeder Third Vice-President Milo Palmateer Fourth Vice-President Mary Bager Secretary Helen Gabel Treasurer Roy Boyd Pianist Helen Souders MEMBERS OF THE ELLA TAYLOR AUXILIARY Mrs. Harold Baker Mrs. M. M. Hodge Mrs. F. M. Barker Mrs. Geo. Humphrey Mrs. E. J. Campbell Mrs. M. H. Lyons, Jr. Miss Ruth, Clement Mrs. J. J. Minteer Mrs. D. G. Cooper Mrs. F. J. Milow Mrs. Carl Ehman Mrs. C. M. Moe Mrs. Geo. Gregg Mrs. C. W. Motz, Jr. Miss Marjorie Sala Mrs. Earl Sherrard Mrs. H. C. Thompson Mrs. E. R. Thompson Miss Martina Taylor Estimated Budget 1936-1937 Pastor's Salary $3,300.00 Conference Claimants 330.00 District Superintendent 231.00 Bishop's Fund 82.50 Administration Expense 33.00 Director of Music 525.00 Organist 260.00 Custodian 900.00 Treasurer 100.00 Printing 300.00 Peoples Power Co 300.00 Repairs 500.00 Insurance 275.00 Water 50.00 Coal 350.00 Postage 175.00 Paving Tax 70.00 Piano and Organ 100.00 Miscellaneous 400.00 $8,281.50 [ 109 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Church Membership Ackerman, George Ackley, George Ackley, Mrs. George Ackley, Robert Ackley, Meredith Aims, Bertha Dolores Aitken, Mrs. J. C. Aitken, Margaret Catharine Aitken, Agnes Anna Aldrich, John H. Aldrich, Mrs. John H. Aldrich, Minnie Alexander, Mrs. Mary Allen, Mrs. John Allen, W. O. Allen, Mrs. W. O. Allen, Wilbur R. Allen, Mrs. Nella C. Allen, Mrs. Knowl Anderson, Mrs. Ethel Anderson, Merlene Angle, Mrs. Eva Angle, Earnest Lloyd Angle, Mrs. E. L. Arenz, Mrs. Nina Arenz, Betty Arndt, Mrs. H. C. Arnold, Dorothy Juanita Arnold, James Charles Arvidson, Leona Pearl Arvidson, Ralph Ash, Ellsworth G. Ash, Mrs. Mary Ash, Ellsworth Ash, Samuel T. Ash, Mrs. S. T. Ash, Helen Ash, Lynn Ash, Dale Atkinson, Mrs. Albertha G. Atkinson, Irene Atkinson, Ivy Atkinson, Floyd S. Atkinson, Everett Babcock, Mrs. Antoinette Bager, C. Francis Bager, Mrs. Francis Bager, Beverly Bager, Mary Bager, Nancy Margaret Bahringer, Frank Bahringer, Mrs. Frank Bailey, Clarence Harrison Bailey, Mrs. Grace Bailey, Margaret Baker, Harold Baker, Lina Weir Baker, Maggie Bancroft, P. T. Bancroft, Mrs. Eva Bancroft, Harriet Bancroft, Dow Barker, Mrs. Myrtle Barker, Phyllis Jane Barker, J. Edwin Barker, Wilbur B. Barker, Mrs. Minnie R. Barker, Sarah Barker, W. C. Barker, Mrs. Minnie Barker, Dorothy A. Barker, Eleanore Jeanne Barkhurst, Mrs. E. S. Barkhurst, Miss Jane Beal, Eva May Battles, Florence E. Battles, Julia A. Battles, Emma L. Battles, Mrs. Charlotte Battles, G. William Battles, Mrs. G. William Battles, Harry Battles, Georgia Beckwith, Miss Doris Beckwith, Mr. Raymond Beeler, Mrs. Carrie Beeler, Eva Beeler, Edith Beers, Miss Charlene Berchekas, G. A. Berchekas, Mrs. G. A. Bergquist, D. B. Bergquist, Mrs. D. B. Berry, C. S. Berry, Mrs. C. S. Berry, Miss Marion Louise Berry, James Wesley Betz, Mrs. Charles Bevan, Ralph B. Bevan, Mrs. Ralph B. Biggs, Mrs. Irma Birdsell, Miss Mary E. Bjorkman, Mrs. Rachel Black, J. Arthur Black, Mrs. J. Arthur 110 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Blair, Lee M. Blair, Mrs. Lee M. Blair, Arthur Lee Blakely, Miss Emma Bodewig, J. C. Bodewig, Mrs. J. C. Bodewig, Jean Bonino, Bernard Bonino, Mrs. Bernard Bonino, Irving Bonino, Bernard Boney, Mrs. John Boyd, Roy W. Boyd, Mrs. Roy W. Boyd, Roy W., Jr. Boyd, Edward Braden, M. H. Braden, Mrs. M. H. Braden, Geraldine Braden, Helen Bradford, Dr. Eli Bradford, Mrs. Mary Bradford, Glenn Bramlett, Mrs. Martha Bramlett, Bessie Britton, Mrs. Gertrude Bromley, John Frederick Broquist, Glenn Brooks, Mrs. Richard Brooks, Wilbur Reynolds Brooks, Mrs. Wilbur R. Brown, Frank Brown, Mrs. Frank Brown, Herman P. Brown, Mrs. Herman P. Bruner, A. L. Bruner, Mrs. A. L. Bruner, Frank Bruner, Philip Bruner, Arthur Buckner, Mrs. Geo. Caldwell, Madelyn Caldwell, Lois Campbell, Airs. Hortense M. Campbell, Chester A. Campbell, Mrs. Chester A. Campbell, Mr. George Henry Campbell, Mrs. Geo. Henry Camper, Maude Camper, Genevieve Carney, Mrs. Mildred Carpenter, Mrs. Maggie Chaney, Ray E. Chaney, Mrs. Ray E. Chaney, Marjorie Chaney, Mrs. Naomi Charles, Mrs. Henrietta Charles, Mrs. Wm. H. Charles, Elsie Mae Cherry, Morris O. Cherry, Mrs. M. O. Clampitt, W. W. Clampitt, Mrs. W. W. Clarke, Mrs. Edith Sherrard Claspill, Mrs. J. W. Clement, Edwin H. Clement, Mrs. Edwin H. Clement, Ruth Collier, Mrs. Winifred Collins, Arthur J. Collins, Mrs. Arthur J. Collins, Robert Bruce Collins, Mrs. Robert Bruce Collins, Mrs. Ellen Collins, Stanley Collins, Bruce Collins, Una Collins, Mrs. Flora M. Collins, Keith Collins, William Collins, Mrs. William Cooke, R. B. Cooke, Mrs. R. B. Cooke, Katherine Cooke, Ross Leslie Cook, Charles Arthur Cook, Mrs. Cora Cook, Josephine Cook, Margaret Cooper, David Glenn Cooper, Mrs. David Glenn Couch, C. E. Couch, Mrs. C. E. Couch, Beulah Lucille Couch, Dorothy Fay Couch, Robert E. Covey, Ellis E. Covey, Mrs. Ellis E. Covey, Elinor Covey, Jean Juliet Covey, Richard Cowell, Mrs. Nellie Cox, Lillian Cramer, Isobel Cramer, Helen Cramlet, Mrs. Cora Cross, Guy A. Cross, Mrs. Guy A. Cross, Carroll Cross, William Dale Crum, H. J. Crum, Mrs. H. J. Crump, Clyde Crump, Mrs Clyde Crnzen, Mrs. Clara 111 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Cruzen, Faulkner Curry, Charles A. Curry, Mrs. Charles A. Daigh, Bert G. Daigh, Mrs. Bert G. Daigh, Burnell Daigh, Deborah Darling, Mrs. Maria Darling, Stella Darling, Harriet Darling, Cornelia J. Darr, Mrs. Chas. Davidson, Manford Davidson, Mrs. Manford Day, Mrs. Helen Day, Mrs. Robert D. Day, Robert Lee Day, Frank Willard Deaton, Andrew O. DeFauw, Mrs. Julius Deming, Donald W. Dempsey, Mrs. Alpha Dempsey, Alfretta G. Denecke, Harry Denecke, Mrs. Harry Denecke, Arno H. Denecke, Virginia Marian Devine, Harry W. Devine, Mrs. Harry W. Derby, Mrs. O. N. Derwent, Mrs. Nellie Dickman, George Dickman, Mrs. George Dickman, Mrs. W. H. Dickman, William, Jr. Diercks, Mrs. Ethel Diercks, Irene Dindinger, Mrs. Nettie Distelhorst, Mrs. Edward. J. Dobbs, Raymond Dodson, J. B. Dodson, Mrs. J. B. Dodson, L. E. Dodson, Mrs. L. E. Donner, Herbert A. Donner, Mrs. Herbert A. Downing, Clyde F. Downing, Mrs. Clyde F. Downing, Mrs. F. J. Downing, Carroll Downing, Frances Downing, Helen Downing, Mrs. W. E. Doyle, Robert C. Doyle, Mrs. Robert C. Draese, Mrs. Ida Dunavin. Edward H. Dunavin, Mrs. Edward H. Dunavin, Martin Dunavin, Lowell Dunlap, Mrs. Matilda Dunlap, Grace Duty, Dorothy Dye, William Ehman, Mrs. Mary Ehman, Mrs. Carl C. Ehrick, Verda Ruth Ellis, Theodore H. Ellis, Mrs. Theodore H. Eiteman, W. L. Eiteman, Wilford J. Ekstrom, Mrs. W. D. Emerson, Harry C. Emerson, Mrs. Harry C. Emerson, Miss Harriett Emig, William Emig, Louis Engman, R. G. Engman, Mrs. R. G. Esely, Esther Eskew, Mrs. Mayme Eskew, Pearl Eskew, Geneva Eskew, Genitee Eskew, Gwendolyn Eskew, Billie Dean Etzel, Samuel Etzel, Mrs. Samuel Ewing, Lynn H. Ferguson, Mrs. S. J. Ferguson, Kenneth Ferguson, Vance Ferns, Albertta Alice Ferns, Arline Grace Ferster, Mrs. Luther A. Ferster, Naomi C. Ferster, Winona N. Findley, Mrs. Frederick Frank, Carl Frank, Mrs. Carl Freeman, Clara G. Frick, Nora Frick, Jesse Frizelle, Carma Fuller, Lee N. Fuller, Mrs. Lee N. Galbraith, Robert P. Galbraith, Bonnie Gabel, C. E. Gabel, Mrs. C. E. Gabel, Helen Garrett, Mrs. Carol [112] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Garrett, Mrs. Alice Glasco, Mrs. V. J. Glasco, Cecil Glawe, A. E. Glorifield, Robert W. Glorifield, Mrs. Robert W. Glorifield, Mrs. William Glorifield, Velma Glorifield, Mildred Rose Gosline, Nelson B. Gosline, Mrs. Nelson B. Gosline, Dorothy Ann Graham, Maude Grant, W. C. Grant, Mrs. W. C. Grant, Dorothy Grant, Phyllis Grear, Mrs. Miriam Green, Mrs. May Green, Buell Joseph Green, Harry Elmo Green, Gerald Lawrence Green, Shirley May Greenely, Kenneth Greenely, Airs. Kenneth Gregg, George Edward Gregg, Mrs. George Edward Griffith, David C. Griffith, Mrs. David C. Griffith, Wm. G. Griffith, Mrs. Wm. G. Griffith. Marion Arlene Grossman, A. L. Grossman, Mrs. A. L. Grothe, Milton W. Grothe, Airs. Milton W. Grove, James Harold Grove, Airs. James Harold Grove. Melvin Stanley Gruske, J. J. Gruske. Mrs. J. J. Gruske, Betty Joyce Haberthur, Mrs. Alberta Hainline, F. A. Hainline, Airs. F. A. Hr. inline, Richard Pearson Hainline. Forrest Arthur Ha lei. Airs. Anna I! at el. Bertha Hall, Airs. Annie Hall, Mrs. Blanche Krell Hamlin, Ernest Hamlin, Airs. Ernest Hampton, Clara B. Hampton. Harriet Hance. Airs. Arlene Hance, Airs. Gertrude Hanna, Mrs. Alary Hansen, Annie Alarie Harris, Mrs. Chas. T. Harris, Ruth Hazard, Airs. M. Hazard, Lucille Head, Raymond L. Head, Mrs. Raymond L. Heath, Mrs. Maggie Heath, Merle Eugene Heath, Airs. Samuel Heegan, Otto Heegan, Mrs. Otto Heizer, J. AI. Heizer, Airs. J. AI. Heizer, Frances L. Hendren, Mrs. Clyde T. Hensley, Mrs. Jessie Hensley, Ashley Hensley, John Chapman Hesser, George W. Pesser, Mrs. George W. Hertzler, F. R. Hertzler, Mrs. Mildred Hertzler, William Fred Higgins, Mrs. Grace Hillmer, Emil Hillmer, Mrs. Emil Hillmer, Genevieve Hillmer, Dorothy Hirst, Fred T. Hirst, Airs. Fred T. Hirst, Billy Hoare, Airs. Bertram J. Hoare, Bertram J., Jr. Hoare, George N. Hoare, Margaret Hoare, Joseph Hodge, Alelville H. Hodge, Airs. Melville H. Hodges, Airs. F. J. Hodgson, Mrs. Lelia Hodgson, Alartha Ann Hodgson, John Carlin Hoffman, Mrs. Lottie Hoge, Charles A. Hoge, Mrs. Charles A. Hollingsworth, Airs. Isabel Hollingsworth, Elbert Hollingsworth, John Hombledal, Airs. Alary Hombledal, James Bishop Horn, Ferdinand I lorn. Abigail Hotchkiss, Kenneth I [otchkiss, Mrs. Kenneth I rough, Mrs. Leta Howard, Betty Lucille 113 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Hubbard, Mrs. Etta Hubbard, Clifford Hubbard, Mrs. Clifford Huber, Wallace Huddleston, Eugene Huddleston, Mrs. Eugene Humes, John Humes, Ivor Humes, Mrs. W. E. Hummon, Alvin Humphreys, Mrs. Geo. E. Humphries, Sarah Jean Hunt, Mrs. Georgia G. Hunt, Mildred Elizabeth Huntley, Edwin Huntley, Mrs. Edwin Hutchinson, Earl Hutchinson, Mrs. Henry Hutchinson, Helen Ijams, Mrs. Wm., Sr. Ijams, Wm., Jr. Ijams, Mrs. Wm., Jr. Jackson, Mrs. Marvin Jackson, Paul Edward Jackson, Mrs. Paul Edward Jacobs, Beatrice Helen Jacobs, James Myron Jameson, L. C. Jameson, Mrs. L. C. Jameson, Rosemary Janes, Lornie R. Janes, Mrs. Lornie R. Janes, Corder Key Johansen, Lucy Johnson, Alfred W. Johnson, Mrs. Alfred W. Johnson, A. A. Johnson, Mrs. A. A. Johnson, Richard Johnson, Mrs. Earl Johnson, Mrs. Emma Johnson, Mrs. E. H. Johnson, Ford A. Johnson, Mrs. Ford A. Johnson, Mrs. Sifford H. Johnston, Abraham L. Johnston, Finni Johnston, Mrs. Finni Johnston, Mrs. Clifford Johnston, Mrs. Mary S. Johnson, Wesley Johnson, Mrs. Wesley Johnston, Mrs. Mattie Jones, Dr. B. E. Jones, Mrs. B. E. Jordan, Leona Kay, Melville Kay, Mrs. Melville Kay, Mrs. Susie Kay, Robert, Jr. Kell, Mrs. Ella Kell, Ray Kell, Mrs. Ray Keller, Geneva Kessler, Mrs. Josephine Kessler, Milton E. Kessler, Mrs. M. E. Kessler, Frank Kimble, Mrs. Carl W. Kinney, I. V. Kinney, Mrs. I. V. Kinney, William Kinsman, W. E. Kinsman, Mrs. W. E. Kinsman, Marian Kinsman, Margaret Kirkhuff, Mrs. M. N. Kirkhuff, Willis Kirsch, Conrad C. Kirsch, Mrs. Conrad C. Kling, Mrs. Henry Klove, Mrs. Bess Klove, Howard Andrew Knorr, Charles I. Knorr, Mrs. Charles I. Koepping, Mrs. W. H. Koerber, Agnes Kolk, Mrs. Alvena Kolk, Esther Krier, Mrs. Earl Kropp, G. J. Kropp, Mrs. G. J. Lamont, Mrs. Margaret Lamont, William Lamont, George Lamont, Donald Lang, George E. Lang, Mrs. George E. Langenbacken, Mrs. Anna Langenbachen, Phyllis Ann Langman, Charles H. Langman, Mrs. Charles H. Langman, Richard Lauck, Ada Blanch Laughlin, Charles E. Laughlin, Airs. Charles E. Lavender, W. I. Lavender, Mrs. W. I. Lavender, Helen Lawhead, Mr. J. W. Lawhead, Mrs. James W. Lawson, J. D. Lawson, Mrs. Blanche [114] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Lawson, Margaret Leitch, Josephine Leitch, Florence Leonard, Henry P. Leonard, Mrs. Henry P. Leonard, Phyllis Leonard, Richard Leslie, Carl F. Leslie, Mrs. Carl F. Leslie, Bettie Leslie, Jack Clinton Leverich, Kirk Leverich, Miss Louie Levey, Clara Levey, Mabel Levey, Anna Lewis, E. H. Lewis, Mrs. E. H. Lewis, Wilbur Lewis, Herbert Tilford Lidtke, Mrs. Fred Lindorff, Ernest Liscom, Mrs. Elizabeth Little, Orville Little, Mrs. Orville Lockwood, W. J. Lockwood, Mrs. W. J. Lovett, Wm. A. Lovett, Mrs. Wm. A. Lovett, Billy Lutz, Mrs. August H. Lyon, Marvin H., Jr. Lyon, Mrs. Marvin H., Jr. Mace, LeRoy Mace, Mrs. LeRoy Marcussen, Mrs. M. M. Marcusson, Jack Oliver Marshall, J. C. Marshall, Mrs. J. C. Marshall, Mrs. L. D. Marshall, Julia Marshall, Lurton F. Martin, James E. Martin, W. E. Masters, Mrs. Laura Masters, Ethel Masters, Culver Mathers, Mrs. Ruby Mathers, Josephine Mayer, Carl Mayer, Mrs. Ina Mehrley, Christina Mikesell, Thelma Mikesell, John Miller, John M. Miller, Mrs. John M. Miller, Mrs. John Mills, Leroy J. Mills, Mrs. Leroy J. Mills, Richard Milow, Fred J. Milow, Mrs. Fred J. Mitchem, George Mitchem, Mrs. George Moberg, Mrs. Minnie B. Moberg, Marian Bell Moe, Clarence M. Moe, Mrs. Clarence M. Moffitt, Harold Russel Moffitt, Mrs. Harold Russel Morton, Mrs. Alice V. Morgan, William Mosenfelder, Mrs. Arthur H. Mosenfelder, V/m. Alphonse Motz, Dr. Chas. W., Jr. Motz, Mrs. Chas. W., Jr. Muhlenberg, George R. Muhlenberg, Mrs. George R. Muhlenberg, Lois Muhlenberg, Marion Muhlenberg, Dolores Muhlenberg, George R., Jr. Murray, Anita Mae Muse, Adda E. Myers, Charles C. Myers, Mrs. Charles C. Myers, Mildred Myers, Charlotte Myers, Fred T. Myers, Mrs. Fred T. McClain, M. C. McClain, Mrs. M. C. McConochie, Robert McConochie, Mrs. Robert McConochie, Wm. J. McConochie, Mrs. Wm. J. McConochie, Florence McConochie, William McCracken, J. W. McCracken, Mrs. J. W. McDonald, Mary McDonald, Robert McDonald, Mrs. Mary McDonald, Mrs. Nellie McEvoy, Mrs. Stewart McEvoy, John Wm. McGuire, Harold L. McGuire, Mrs. Harold L. McKinley, Mrs. G. F. McKinley, Mrs. Marvin McMeekin, Lucinda McNutt, Mrs. George McNutt, Esther McPike, Cyrus McPike, Mrs. Cyrus McRoberts, John Wesley 115] 100 YEARS OF METHODISM McRoberts, Mrs. John Wesley McRoberts, Elsie M. McRoberts, Gladys L. Nadler, Mrs. Kate Xeff, Esther Nelson, Mrs. John Nelson, Mrs. Henry Nelson, Mrs. R W. Nicholas, Ernest E. Nicholas, Mrs. Ernest E. Nicholas, Ernest E., Jr. Nicholas, Virginia Nicholas, Mrs. Clara Nichols, Charles Nichols, Mrs. Charles Noack, Mrs. Mary Noack, Carl B. Noack. Edwin, Jr. Noack. Robert Leon Noftsker, Grace Noftsker, Bessie Noftsker, John A. Oberg, Walter E. Oberg, Mrs. Walter E O'Connell, Mrs. Lenora Olmsted, Mrs. Horace J. Olmsted. Harold R. Olmsted, Mrs. Harold R. Orr, Warren H. Osborne, Harold J. Osborne, Mrs. Harold J. Osbourne, Elaine Palmateer, Lloyd Palmateer. Mrs. Lloyd Palmateer,, W. O. Palmateer, Mrs. W. O. Palmateer, Milo Wayne Parrish, John Parrish, Mrs. John Parrish. Hazel A. Patterson, Roy S. Patterson, Mrs. Roy S. Patterson, Dale L. Patterson, William Patterson, Miriam Irene Patterson, "Mrs. Ray Patterson, Alice Paulsen. Mrs. Wm, Pearce, Iva C. Pearce, M. R. Pearce, Mrs. M. R. Pearce, Edna Pearson, Mrs. Otto L. Pearson, Theodore B. Pearson, Paul Clelland Pearson, Gorth Olaf Pearson, Marcus Elvin Pearson, Mrs. Swain Pemberton, Mrs. Delia Perkins, Mrs. Pearl Perry, Airs. Levicia Perry, Foster H. Pershing, Mrs. Frank C. Pershing, Robert Calvin Peterson, Mrs. Fred Peterson, H. C. Peterson, Mrs. H. C. Peterson, Donald Pettit, Mrs. Paul Phelps, Mrs. Frank Phillips, Emily J. Phillips, Mrs. Nathan Pinkerton, Mrs. Myrle Pitsch, Marie Poole. Mrs. Mary Jane Porch. Vivian Porschke, Annie Claude Porschke. Janelda Powers, YVillard D. Powers, Mrs. Willard D. Powers. Ruth Pratt, Eloise Prolow, Dorence Prolow, Mrs. Dorence Purcell, Mrs. R. W. Quinlan, Mrs. John Ragsdale, E. S. Ragsdale, Mrs. E. S. Railing", George H. Railing, Mrs. George H. Ramsey, Julian Ramsey, Airs. Julian Raney, Lillian Ranson, Anna Ranson, Edna Ranson, Elmer Reddig, Mrs. Clara Reddig, Rav Reddig, Mrs. Ray Reddig, Ronald Redecker, Clara Reid, Mrs. Florence Reid, Glenn Reid, John A. Reid, Mrs. John A. Renfro, Mrs. Sarah Rentfrow, Mrs. Katherine Reschke, L. C. Reschke, Mrs. L. C. Reschke, Jo Anne Rhoads, Frank K. 116 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Rhoads, Dorothy Rice, George Roberts, Mrs. Metta Roe, Archie Roe, Mrs. Archie Rose, Mrs. H. M. Roseberry, Eugene Roseberry, Mrs. Eugene Rosenberg, Esther Rosenkranz, Mrs. Frank L. Ross, Kenneth L. Ross, Mrs. Kenneth L. Ruff, Mrs. Harmon L. Runyan, Merle F. Runyan, Mrs. Merle F. Runyan, Edward Runyan, Lucile Runyan, Etta Mae Runyan, Dorothy Runyan, Doris Runyon, LeRoy Run}T>n, Airs. LeRoy Sala, Mrs. Gertrude Sala, Marjorie Sanders, William J. Sanders, Mrs. William J. Sanders, Hiram Sanders, Fitzgerald Geo. Schaible, Daniel L. Scherer, Harry Scherer, Mrs. Harry Scherer, Samuel M. Scherer, Mrs. Samuel M. Schill, Mrs. Mary Schillinger, Charles F. Schnick, C. J. Schnick, Mrs. C. J. Schoulda, Walter F. Schoulda, Mrs. Walter F. Schroeder, Thomas Schroeder, Mrs. Thomas Schroeder, Maurice B. Schroeder, Charlotte F. Schultz, Mrs. Arthur Sellers, Melvin R. Sellers, Mrs. Melvin R. Seward, Mrs. Philip Seymour, Violet Shanes, Mrs. Cornelia Shantz, John H. Shantz, Mrs. John H. Shantz, Mrs. Mary Sharp, Sadie Sheldon, E. A. Sheldon, Mrs. E. A. Sheldon, Ruth Sheldon, Chester Sherrard, Mrs. D. E. Shipley, Mrs. H. C. Shoup, Clayton G. Sible, Mrs. Mamie Sible, Mrs. Ed. Siders, Mrs. Ada Allen Siegrist, Mrs. Alvina Siemon, Mrs. E. A. Siemon, Annetta May Siemon, Elva Jane Siemon, Ralph Smith, Levi E. Smith, Mrs. Levi E. Smith, Grace Smith, Mabel Smith, Hobart Lee Smith, Mrs. Hobart L. Smith, Hobart Lee, Jr. Smith, Maurice Dale Smith, Tazwell, Jr. Smith, Mrs. T. S. Smith, Mrs. Otilea Smith, Mrs. Grace Smith, B. R. Smith, Mrs. H. A. Smith, Uldine Olive Smith, Mildred lone Smutz, Ollie H. Snyder, Charles Snyder, Mrs. Charles Snyder, Elizabeth Jane Snyder, Oris F. Snyder, Mrs. Oris Soderstrom, Mrs. Brendon Souders, J. C. Souders, Mrs. J. C. Souders, John, Jr. Souders, Helen Spencer, Millicent Spencer, Steve R. Spencer, Mrs. Steve R. St. Clair, Marjorie Jean St. Clair, Marion Katherine Stafford, E. H. Stamm, Mrs. L. R. Stanford, George E. Starnes, William D. Starnes, Mrs. William D. Staubauch, Kenneth Steinhauer, Paul Edward Steinhauer, Dorothy Steinhauer, W. C. Steinhauer, Airs. W. C. Stevens, Mrs. Belle Stevens, Millard T. Stevens, Mrs. Ida Stevenson, Dale Stevenson, Mrs. Dale [117 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Stevenson, Dorothy Stevenson, Willis Stevenson, Edna Stone, Delia Stone, Ina Strate, Edward L. Strate, Mrs. Edward L. Stratman, Mrs. Blanche Stratman, William Stratman, Gwendolyn Sturtz, L. Roy Sturtz, Mrs. L. Roy Sturtz, Donald Sturtz, Wilson Carl Sturtz, Marion Elizabeth Stuteville, Mrs. Mary Sudlow, F. E. Sudlow, Mrs. F. E. Sudlow, Margaret Sudlow, Katherine Suman, Mrs. Florence Suman, Arthur Suman, Lucy W. Suman, Helen Marie Suman, Eileen Charity Sutton, Mrs. Roscoe Sutton, Gerald Sweney, Mrs. Grace Swisher, Mrs. Jennie L. Tarns, Frederick C. Tarns, Mrs. Frederick C. Taylor, Dorr Taylor, Mrs. Dorr Taylor, Dr. John Taylor, Mrs. John Taylor, Martina Taylor, Helen Taylor, Ella Taylor, Jennie Thirtyacre, James R. Thirtyacre, Mrs. James R. Thollander, Mrs. Marvin Thompson, Elmer R. Thompson, Mrs. Elmer R. Thompson, Harry Thompson, Violet Thompson, Harold Thompson, Calvin Thompson, Robert Thompson, Richard Ernest Thompson, Mrs. Nelle Beers Thompson, Mrs. Howard Thompson, Robert John Tomlinson, DeForrest Tonn, Frederick Tonn, Mrs. Frederick Tonn, Mabel W. Totten, Leonard Totten, Mrs. Leonard Totten, Mabel Jean Townsend, Mrs. Edna M. Trenkenschuh, Amelia Truslow, Mrs. Kate Truxell, Mrs. D. W. Turner, Charles Turner, Mrs. Charles Turner, George Turner, Victor Turner, Mrs. Victor Ullemeyer, Barbara Utke, Raymond Van Brocklin, Frank Van Brocklin, Mrs. Frank Van Brocklin, Walter Van Brocklin, Raymond Vandervort, Cleophas H. Vandervort, Mrs. Cleophas H. Van Galder, Mrs. Florence Van Hecke, Mrs. Susan Van Hecke, Paul Van Hecke, Harry Van Hoorebecke, Mrs. Julius Van Trump, Mrs. R. W. Venters, John E. Venters, Mrs. John E. Venters, James Willis Von Dresky, Mrs. H. R. Voss, Mrs. Frank Voss, Frank Walker, Dickman Walker, H. K. Walker, Mrs. H. K. Walker, Raymond R. Walker, Mrs. Raymond R. Walker, Margery Jean Walker, Roberta Ann Wallace, Roy T. Wallace, Mrs. Roy T. Wannock, Mrs. Malvina Wannock, Theodora Ward, Mrs. H. W. Ward, Elizabeth Ward, Kathryn Washburn, Justin Washburn, Mrs. Justin Washburn, Wanda LaRue Watkins, Anna Watkins, Daisy Wayne, Mary E. Wayne, Susan Wayne, Douglas Wayne, Anthony 118] IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Weeks, Mrs. Parker Weir, Mrs. Henrietta Welch, Ira Clifford Welch, Mrs. Ira Clifford Welliver, Albert Welliver, Mrs. Albert Welliver, Alice Mae Welliver, Clara Eugenia Wentz, Mrs. Emma Wentz, Mary Hazel West, Cecil West, Mrs. Blanche West, Kathryn White, Virginia Whitlake, Eugene Whitney, Mrs. W. G. Whitney, Mary Whitson, Mrs. Leo Howard Wiele, Lester Wiele, Mrs. Lester Wiggins, Mrs. Thomas W. Wiggins, Clara Wiggins, Mary Willett, V. E. Willett, Mrs. V. E. Willett, Lester Williams, Louise Williams, Mrs. Agnes Williams, Dr. A. E. Williams, Mrs. A. E. Williams, Robert Judd Williams, Mrs. Robert Judd Williams, Mrs. Jennie Willis, Robert Willis, Mrs. Robert Willits, Mrs. Olga Wilson, Herbert E. Wilson, Mrs. Herbert E. Wilson, Charles C. Wilson, Mrs. Charles C. Wilson, Floyd E. Wilson, Mrs. Floyd E. Wilson, Mrs. Jennie D. Wilson, Louis B. Wilson, Mrs. Louis B. Wilson, Lewis Bender Wilson, Marilyn Jean Wilson, C. Raymond Wilson, Mrs. C. Raymond Wilson, Robert Winkler, Mrs. Emma Witherspoon, Nora Wise, Gladys Bess Wise, Adeline Jeanette Wise, Mrs. Wm. Witter, William W. Witter, Mrs. William W. Witter, James F. Witter, Mrs. James F. Witter, Bestor Woods, J. C. Woods, Mrs. J. C. Woodin, Mrs. W. J. Woodin, Jerry Woodard, Charles Woodard, Mrs. Charles Wright, F. H. Wright, Mrs. F. H. Wright, Foster Wurbs, Elmer Wurbs, A. W. Wurbs, Mrs. A. W. Wurbs, Arnold W. Wurbs, Mrs. Arnold W. 119 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Non-Resident Members Anderson, Odetta Anderson, Mrs. Ralph Battles, James S. Battles, Airs. James S. Battles, Chester Battles, Stewart Blaine, Allie Blaine, Mrs. Allie Blue, Mrs. Lee A. Brown, Dwight S. Brown, Mrs. Dwight S. Calhoun, Virginia Clarke, Mrs. J. B. Clarke, Ben Clement, Carrie Conner, Arthur Otis Conner, Mrs. Arthur Otis Freeman, Mrs. Gilbert W. Johnson, Lu Verne Judice, Mrs. J. W. Kern, Royal W. Kern, Mrs. Royal W. Lewis, Mrs. Carrie Marshall, Warren L. Marshall, Mrs. Warren L. Masters, Mrs. Cora McCarthy, Mrs. Faye McConnell, Mrs. J. E., Jr. Miller, Mrs. Ray Minor, James I. Minor, Mrs. James I. Morley, Mrs. Francis Paulsen, Henry Paulsen, Mrs. Henry Powers, Mrs. Edith Powers, Billy Ramser, Oscar Ramser, Mrs. Oscar Ramser, Milton Ramser, Mrs. Milton Rehfeld, Mrs. James Sederlund, Mrs. H. D. Spencer, John Stambaugh, Oliver Stambaugh, Mrs. Oliver Stambaugh, Arthur Stevens, Harold Sturdevant, Russel Sturdevant, Mrs. Russel Thompson, Mrs. Floyd Thornburg, Mrs. H. F. Thorpe, Mrs. Ida Tice, Mrs. Ray V. Twamley, H. B. Twamley, Mrs. H. B. Twamley, Charles Wakefield, Idessa Wengert, Willis Willis, William Babcock, Kenneth E. Babcock, Mrs. Kenneth O'Connell, Jean Bailey, Frank Christiance, Maxine Claver, Ernest Clayton, Robert E., Jr. Close, J. C. Coker, Mrs. R. Phillip Collins, Mrs. Arthur Connelly, Mrs. G. H. Coyne, Ira Coyne, Mrs. Ira Dahl, Jennie Victoria Dahl, Dolores Laverne Dripps, Mrs. Lelah B. Dunn, Verna Eby, Frank Eby, Mrs. Frank Enefer, Mrs. Alice Fedderson, Ray Foote, Mrs. Eva Francis, Harry Elmer Francis, William Edward Francis, Betty Jane Francis, Eugene Freeman, Geraldine Garrard, O. V. Garrard, Mrs. O. V. Harris, Lulu M. Hazard, Lee Hazard, Mrs. Lee Heath, Merle Hombledahl, John B. Hyde, Earl T. Hyde, Mrs. Earl T. Hyde, Earl, Jr. Jackson, Mrs. Vera Johnson, Raymond Johnson, J. A. Johnston, Lee Roy Klyber, Mrs. Maude Krell, Anetta Laird, Dale C. Laird, Mrs. Dale C. Lindblom, Mrs. Ralph G. Mathews, E. W. 120 IN ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Mathews, Mrs. E. W. Meadley, Mrs. Walter Moss, Mrs. Virgil Nelson, Miss Ceicle Paridon, Mrs. Kate Phillips, Dorothy Pletz, Mrs. Ada Ronk, Mrs. Carolyn Robinson, Louise Rothert, Edna Rogers, Melvin Rogers, Mrs. Melvin Rowe, Mrs. Nora B. Rugglcs, Marion Ruggles, Katherine Schmidt, Marlyn Simpson, Ernest Simpson, Mrs. Ernest Simpson, Laura Mae Simpson, Mrs. Clara Tackenberg, H. G. Tackenberg, Mrs. H. G. Tighe, Mrs. Margaret Tyler, Mrs. Emma VanDenberg, Mrs. Paul W. Whitson, Leo H. Whitting, Mrs. Bessie Wise, Wesley Wise, Mrs. Wesley 12 100 YEARS OF METHODISM Pastors and Elders The following men have served this church as pastors and presiding elders : Pastors 1831 Philip Cordier 1831-33 1832 John T. Mitchell 1834 1833 Asa McMurtry 1835 1834 Colin D. James 1836-38 1835 W. Wigley 1839 1836 Philip K. Hanna 1840 1837 Norris Hobart 1841 1838 Thomas Kirkpatrick 1842 1839-40 C. M. Wager 1843 1841-42 G. G. Worthington 1844-46 1843 Andrew Coleman 1847-50 1844 Isaac Searles 1851-52 1845 Freeborn Haney 1853 1846-47 Zadock Hall 1854-57 1848 J. O. Gilbert 1858-61 1849 R. Powley 1862-63 1850-51 G. L. Stuff 1864 1852 John Morey 1865-68 1853 J. W. Stogdill 1869-73 1854 Willaim Tasker 1873 1855 S. G. J. Worthington 1874-77 1856-57 J. W. Flowers 1878-81 1858-59 W. H. Hunter 1882-85 1860-61 John P. Brooks 1886-87 1862-63 W. P. Graves 1888-93 1864-66 L. G. Kent 1894 1867-68 Richard Haney 1895-97 1869-70 John H. Rhea 1898-03 1871-72 C. C. Knowlton 1904-09 1873-74 W. C. Knapp 1910-13 1875-76 H.M. Laney 1914-15 1877-79 George R. Palmer 1916-23 1880-82 J. S. McCord 1924-28 1883-85 R. G. Pearce 1929-31 1886 G. J. Luckey 1932-34 1887-90 George W. Gue 1935-36 1891-95 F. M. Merrell 1896-00 C. O. McCulloch 1901-09 R. B. Williams 1910-13 T. E. Newland 1914-15 O. T. Dwinell 1916-19 Samuel Van Pelt 1920-28 J. A. Chapman 1929-31 E. G. Sandmeyer 1932-36 E. J. Campbell Presiding Elders Peter Cartwright Hooper Crewes A. Brunson Henry Summers N. G. Berryman John Clark S. H. Stocking B. E. Weed J. T. Mitchell Hooper Crewes John St. Clair A. E. Phelps Luccock R. N. Morse John Chandler E. Ranson G. C Woodruff B. C. Swartz W. H. Hunter Henderson Richie F. M. Chaffee E. Wasmuth A. R. Morgan P. A. Cool M. A. Head G. J. Luckey M. V. Crumbaker J. W. Frizzell W. R. Wiley Alex Smith R. B. Williams J. T. Jones G. H. Thorpe T. E. Newland F. A. McCarty Arthur Cates [122] IN ROCK ISLAND. ILLINOIS 1836... ...1936 Centennial Jubilee Program of the First Methodist Episcopal Church, Rock Island, Illinois, Opening Sunday, December 6, 1936. 9:30 A.M.— Sunday School. # Lynn H. Ewing, Superintendent. 10 :45 A. M. — Morning Worship. Sermon, Rev. Arthur Cates, Superintendent of Galesburg District. Ernest J. Campbell, Minister Ringing of the Hollbrook Bell one hundred peals for the past century. Then a joyous ringing to begin the new. 4:30 P. M. — Vesper Service. Prelude "Andante (2nd Sonata) Borowski 1. "I Have Considered" James "Pilgrims' Chorus" Wagener Choir 2. "The Redemption" Protheroe Esther Rosenberg 3. "Romance" Wieniowski Brendon Soderstrom 4. "Rock of Ages" Gounod "Largo" Handel Choir 5. Offertory— "Prelude" Chopin Lois Brenton 6. "The Lord's Prayer" Malotte Paul Van Hecke 7. "I Waited for the Lord" Mendelssohn Esther Esely and Abigail Horn "Old Hundred" Choir Postlude "Sonata" Beethoven 6:30 P. M— Epworth League. Chester Sheldon, President. Tuesday, December 8th 7 :30 P. M.— Historical Pageant. Directed by Mrs. Fred E. Sudlow; assisted by Dr. C. W. Motz, Jr., C. Ray Wilson. Wednesday, December 9th 7:30 P. M.— Choir Home-Coming Night. Directed by Mrs. James F. Witter. Thursday, December 10th 3 :00 P. M— Christmas Bazaar. 4 :00 P. M. — Reception to former pastors, pastors' wives and friends. 5 :30 P. M.— Dinner. [123]