584 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.

CHAPTER II.


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PERMANENT RELIGIOUS WORK.

IT would be impracticable here to do more I than make brief mention of the great number of Church enterprises which constitute the religious work in Toledo. So far as may be, record will be made of these in the form of denominational history.

THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.

As was the fact with most pioneer settlements in early days, the advance in permanent religious work in Lucas County was made by the Methodist Episcopal Church. This fact, no doubt, is mainly clue to the peculiar adaptation of the methods of that organization for the supply of the sparsely settled localities of the West. In this work, as a rule, that Church was materially aided by such Christian settlers of other denominations as were able to co-operate therewith. In this way religious privileges were maintained, until, with increased population and strengthened religious sentiment, there came to be strength to warrant denominational division in the work.

It is claimed, and with apparent justice, that the first Protestant religious services, within the present limits of Toledo, were held in what is now the Parish of the Monroe Street Methodist Episcopal Church, and by Preachers of that denomination. Who held the first service, seems to be in some doubt, there being conflicting claims for that honor. Rev. Elnathan C. Gavitt, now a resident of the City, is confident that e preached the first sermon within that territory, about 1832; while others of that Church think Mr. Gavitt was preceded as early as 1822 or 23, by Revs. Billings O. Plympton and Elias Pattee, who then stopped and held services while passing between Detroit and Monroe and Northern Ohio. The first Preachers in this County under regular assignment, were those of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and sent here by the Ohio Conference of 1825.* That Conference then included all of Ohio and Michigan and a portion of Indiana. The first Methodist congregation proper that gathered within the present bounds of Toledo is credibly stated to have been imported to the same in a lumber wagon in the latter part of the Spring of 1833, and consisted of Noah A. Whitney and his wife, Maria; Amasa Bishop (yet a resident of the Parish and member of the Monroe Street Church); Eli

* Historical Record of Monroe Street M. E. Church, written by Rev. T. N. Barkdull.

Hubbard, and Mary and Sarah Keeler. With these was the Preacher, Rev. Elijah H. Pilcher. Mr. Bishop says that previous to the date named, Classes had been formed in that section by Rev. John H. Baughman and others; but the first congregation for public service within the limits of Toledo, was the one here referred to. The first Class known to have been organized in this region was in 1826. The circumstances of the event are given as follows : Mr. Baughman, in passing, found Eli Hubbard, one of the earliest and most prominent of the pioneers of this section, at work in the woods, and asked him if there was all opening thereabouts to preach the Gospel. Mr. Hubbard told him that his house was open for such purpose. His dwelling was of logs, and was located near the Tremainesville bridge over Ten-Mile Creek or Ottawa River. It consisted of one small room with two beds. There Mr. Baughman preached, and there was formed a Class, which consisted of John, Samuel and Sophronia Horton, William Wilkinson and wife, Mrs. Maria Whitney and Miss Mary Keeler, daughter of Major Coleman I. Keeler. Mr. Wilkinson was made the Class Leader. Appointments were made for preaching at the residences of Mr. Hubbard and Noah A. Whitney. Another Class was organized with meetings at the latter place, of which Mrs. Whitney was the Leader. Mr. Hubbard at this time was not a professor of religion, but united with the Church about a year later. Evidently the cause of Methodism is materially indebted to Mrs. Maria Whitney for the start it received in this section. Largely through her influence and efforts, her husband and the most of a large family connection became active and useful members of the Church ; while her labors and earnest devotion were potent for good among the settlers throughout a large region of country. As the work grew and gathered strength, steps were taken toward more ample quarters for public service, and ere long a log School-house was built near the Tremainesville burying ground, and bowers provided for more ample space outside the building, when the weather should permit.

Elder Baughman's successors in the ministry there, were Revs. Casden, J. W. Finley, Cooper, Plympton, Gearing, Pilcher, Gavitt, and Sprague-the Presiding Elders being Brown, Godard, Pattee, Gilruth, Eurite, Leonard B. Gurley, and John Janes (father of Frank Janes, now of Toledo). Mr. Pilcher was the first Preacher after Toledo existed. The first mem-


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ber of the Methodist Church who resided within the present bounds of Toledo, was a Mrs. Simpson, but she did not live long after coming, having died in 1833. There being no clergyman then here, Deacon Samuel I. Keeler (father of Salmon H. Keeler), made a prayer and a few remarks at the funeral, Amasa Bishop (yet a resident) offering the closing prayer.

What is now the Monroe Street charge, was part of the Toledo Circuit until Sylvania Circuit was formed, when it became part of that, and the affairs of the Monroe Street and Tremainesville charges are more or less indistinct, there being now in existence few records to which reference can be made.

The first appointment to the Sylvania Circuit was S. H. Alderman in 1842. In 1858 the two charges were set off from that Circuit, and Rev. Wm. Thatcher placed in charge of them. They continued thus connected until 1875, when Monroe Street became a Station. In 1859 steps were taken which resulted in the erection of the brick edifice now used by the Church, for which the Society is largely indebted to James, Noah A. and Thomas Porter Whitney, and Amasa Bishop. It cost $1,400, and was dedicated in August, 1859, by Rev. Granville Moody. The present parsonage was built in 1865-6, under the pastorate of Rev. Jacob F. Burkholder, who first occupied it. The location of the Milburn Wagon Works in the immediate vicinity in 1873, brought much strength to this Church, for which it was largely indebted to the special interest taken in it by Mr. George Milburn, the founder and long the manager of that establishment.

The following is given as the most correct list of Preachers ministering to the Monroe Street charge from the start 1825-J. A. Baughman and Solomon Manier. 1826-Baughman. 1827-S-George A. Walker. 1829Jacob Hill. 1830-31-James W. Finley. 1832-E. H. Pilcher and Elnathan C. Gavitt. 1833-Pilcher and Wm. Sprague. 1834-Sprague and Sylvester F. Southard. 1835-Cyrus Brooks and Robert Triggs. 1836-7 Ira Chase. 1838-Wesley Brock and Andrew M. Fitch. 1839-Austin Coleman and Samuel B. Guiberson. 1840-John Tibbals. 1841-Eb. R. Hill, F. C. Paine and Ralph Wilcox. 1842-3-S. H. Alderman and S. L. Yourtee. 1844-Luke S. Johnson. 1845Martin Welch. 1846-William Thatcher. 1847 Luke L. Johnson. 1848-Octavius Waters and James M. Wilcox. 1849-Alanson Foster and Alfred H. Walters. 1850-James Evans and John Crabbs. 1851-Crabbs and George G. Lyon. 1852-David W. Ocker and John A. Shannon. 1853-Ocker and John A. Shannon. 1854-Lorenzo D. Rogers and Abram B. Poe. 1855-Ambrose Hollington and A. B. Poe. 1856-Henry Warner. 1857-Edmund B. Morrison and John R. Colgan. 1858-9-Wm. Thatcher. 1860 Oliver Kennedy. 1861-E. C. Gavitt. 1862-Louis Al. Albright. 1863-Silas B. Maltbie. 1864-L. M. Albright. 1565-J. F. Burkholder. 1866-7-S. B. Maltbie. 1868-9-John Farley. 1870-Elias H. Gammon. 1871-Thomas J. McKean. 1872-Edward A. Berry. 1873-4-Samuel S. Barter. 1875-6-7-Thomas N. Barkdull. 1878-81-N. B. C. Love.



The second Church in Toledo of the Methodist Episcopal connection was organized in 1836, when the Society purchased lots on Huron Street (483 and 485), between Locust and Walnut (North side), and began the erection thereon of a house of worship, which was afterwards purchased by the German Methodists. In 1843 the Church had a membership of 70. By1850 the progress had become such, that steps were taken for a more eligible location and a more commodious edifice. At that time, Thomas Southard, Almon Hopkins and James Love were authorized to purchase a lot, which was done in 1851, the choice being the site of the present building, corner of Madison and Superior Streets. The cost of the lot was $800, on which a brick church was placed, at a cost of' $2,000. The first regular Pastor was Rev. J. T. Caples, who remained two years, during which time a parsonage was built, which subsequently was removed.

In May, 1865, St. Paul's Church building on Madison Street was removed, and before the next Winter, accommodations were provided in the basement of the present building, which was completed and dedicated in the Winter of 1869, at which time $18,000 was raised for the liquidation of indebtedness, which not being sufficient for the purpose, another effort was made in June, 1873, when $23,000 more was subscribed. The cost of the Church was $60,000, including $4,000 for an organ.

The territory of Lucas County was embraced within the Michigan Conference until 1839, when it was transferred to the North Ohio Conference, then formed, and continued in such connection until the formation of Central Ohio Conference, in 1856. The Preachers on the Circuit, including Toledo, previous to 1843, were as follows : John A. Baughman, Elnathan C. Gavitt, J. B. Finley, Casden, B. O. Plympton, - Gearing, Henry E. Pilcher, -Sprague, Wesley Brock, A. N. Fitch, and two or three not remembered.

The Station Preachers of St. Paul's since 1843 have been as follows:

1843-5-Martin Welch. 1845-6-S. L. Yourtee. 1846-7-W. L. Harris. 1847-8 -W. L. Winter. 1848-9 Edward R. Jewett. 1849-50-James Kellam. 185052-John Graham. 1852-4-John T. Caples. 1854-5 Thomas Parker. 1855-7-Joseph Ayres. 1857-9 George W. Collier. 1859-61-Alex. Nelson. 1861-2Edmund B. Morrison. 1862-3-Henry E. Pilcher. 1863-6-Charles W. Ketcham. 1866-8-Daniel D. Mather. 1868-70-Pearl P. Ingalls. 1870-73-Russell B. Pope. 1873-5-Park S. Donelson. Subsequently Gershom Lease, W. G. Waters, Leroy Belt, S. S. Seiler, D. G. Strong. T. S. Wiltse, and E. D. Whitlock (present Pastor).

Up to 1853, the Methodists of Toledo worshiped as one congregation. At that time a Mission was started on Lagrange Street (between Superior and Huron), which for several years took the name of Ames Chapel. A frame building was constructed for its use, which afterwards was removed and a brick church erected, and occupied for a time and until the


586 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.

Church had provided another building on Magnolia Street, between Huron and Superior, and had taken the name of ST. JOHN'S CHURCH. The new organization took place in 1872, since which time it has been in prosperous condition. Rev. J. H. Bethards is now the Pastor.

BROADWAY M. E. CHURCH, East Side Broadway, between Crittenden and Western Avenues, was organized in 1854. The Pastor in 1887 was Rev. Parker P. Pope. It then had a membership of 240.



In 1865, a Methodist Episcopal Church was organized at West Toledo (formerly Tremainesville), taking the name of that locality. Its edifice is located on South side Phillips Avenue, near Duke Street. The Pastor in 1887, .was Rev. John Poucher,

THIRD STREET M. E. CHURCH, On Third Street, between Cherry and Oak, East Toledo, was instituted in 1866. Rev. M. M. Figley was the Pastor in 1887.

ZION'S (German) M. E. CHURCH was organized in 1870. In 1887 it had a membership of 170, with Rev. Joseph Kern as Pastor.

In 1850 EMANUEL (German) M. E. CHURCH was organized under the charge of Rev. Peter F. Schneider, when the building on Huron Street (479), between Walnut and Locust, built and used by the English Methodist Church, was purchased and removed to Ontario, between Locust and Walnut Streets, which was used until the Society had erected the fine edifice now occupied on the Northeast corner of Walnut and Ontario Streets. The present membership of the Church is 280. The Pastor for 1887 was Rev. E. F. Wunderlich.

DETROIT AVENUE M. E. CHURCH was instituted in 1875. It is located at Northwest corner of Detroit Avenue and Forrer Streets. In 1887 its Pastor was Rev. Joseph Williams.

BETHANY M. E. CHURCH is located on North side Woodville, near Brand Street, East Toledo. Its Pastor for 1887 was Rev. M. M. Figley.

ALBANY STREET M. E. CHURCH, organized in 1875. It is located at the corner of Albany and Erie Streets, North Toledo (formerly Manhattan). Its Pastor in 1887 was Rev. John Poucher.

EAST TOLEDO GERMAN M. E. MISSION was organized in November, 1887, with Rev. Carl A. Militzer as Pastor.

CONFERENCES AND PREACHERS.

The Ohio Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church for 1828, met in Lancaster, in September, Bishop Roberts presiding. Among the appointments made, were the following, to wit:

Presiding Elders-Miami District, G. R. Jones. Lebanon District-James B. Finley. Scioto District -John Collins. Lancaster District-David Young. Kenhawa District-Z. Connell. Portland (Sandusky) District-Russell Bigelow. Detroit District-Zara H. Coston.

Preachers. Portland District-Brunswick, James McMahan. Wayne-Adam Poe, Henry Colclazer. Mansfield-Jacob Dixon, Henry O. Sheldon. Delaware-James Gilruth, Wm. Runnells. Sandusky Jacob Hill, Alvin Billings. Huron-John Huzzard, Cyrus S. Carpenter. Black River-Shadrach Ruark (superannuated.) John C. Havens. Sandusky CityJohn Janes. Wyandot Mission-Russell Bigelow (superannuated), Thomas Thompson. James B. Finley was Superintendent of St. Mary's Mission. Moses Crume, Robert W. Finley, John Brown, Wm. Page and John C. Brooke were superannuated. There were admitted to Conference on trial-Jas. B. Austin, James W. Finley, Thomas Thompson, T. Symmes, Geo. Hoffman, Joseph Hill, Joel Dolby, Jr., Wm. Herr, Jos. M. Trimble, Leonard B. Gurley, Henry Colclazer, Jacob Hill, Alvin Billings, David Cadwallader and James Wilson. Thomas A. Morris was transferred to Kentucky Conference.

The Ohio Annual Conference for 1830, was held at Lancaster, in September, when the following appointments were made for what then was known as the Portland District :



Presiding Elder-Russell Bigelow. BrunswickJohn Hazard, James Wilson. Wayne-Henry O. Sheldon, Jacob Dixon. Holmes-J. C. Haven, Leonard Hill. Mansfield-John Janes, E. Yocum. Delaware-S. P. Shaw, A. M. Lorraine. SanduskyElam Day, E. S. Gavitt. Huron-Charles Reed, Ad. Minear. Black River-C. S. Carpenter, Elnathan C. Gavitt. Sandusky City-Wm. Runnells. Wyandot Mission-T. Thompson, B. Boydson. Greensburgh -E. B. Chase.

As will be seen, this District extended from Sandusky City to Cuyahoga County on the North, and to Franklin County on the Southall which territory, with very few good roads, and largely with no roads, the Presiding Elder was required to traverse repeatedly during the year. It can hardly be matter of surprise, then, that Methodist preachers then cultivated an attachment for good horses, and were so generally superior judges of such stock.

Appointments were made by the Ohio M. E. Conference, in 1832, as follows:

Sandusky-L. B. Gurley. Norwalk-H. 0. Sheldon, Edward Thomson. Tiffin-E. Yocum, J. Martin. Fort Defiance-Wm. Sprague. Fort Findlay Mission-Elam Day, B. Allen. Monroe (Michigan) -Elnathan C. Gavitt, E. H. Pitcher.

The Presiding Elders of the Conference were J. B. Finley, W. H. Raper, Augustus Eddy, L. Swormstedt, Isaac A. Hunter, W. B. Christie and James Gilruth.

Among the appointments made by the Ohio Methodist Episcopal Conference, in August, 1835, were the following:

Norwalk District-John H. Power, Presiding Elder. Norwalk-Leonard Hill, James A. Kellam. Elyria-James Wheeler, Thos. Barkdull. Sandusky -John M. Goshorn, John T. Kellam. Wellington John Morey, Jas. Frees. Vermillion-John Quigly. Paris (Plymouth) -Hiram M. Shaffer. BucyrusJames Wilson, Thos. Hesson. Tiffin-Thos. Thompson, Philip Wareham. Mt. Gilead - Zephaniah Bell. Wyandot Mission-S. P. Shaw. Norwalk Seminary-Jona. E. Chaplin, Principal; H. O. Sheldon, Agent.

Maumee District-L. B. Gurley, Presiding Elder. Perrysburg-Cyrus Brooks. Sandusky-John Kinner, John H. Pitezel. Kenton Mission-Alanson Fleming. Lima-David Burns, Wesley J. Wells. St.


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Mary's Mission-John O. Conaway. Findlay Mission-Elam Day, Mark Delany. Defiance-Peter Sharp, Wesley Brock. Risdon-Henry Whiteman.

The other Presiding Elders were: Leroy Swormstedt, James Quinn, W. H. Roper, J. B. Finley, James Delay, John Ferree, David Young, Jacob Young, Adam Poe, Henry Colclazer, James Gilruth.

The whole number of Preachers then stationed in the Conference, was 228, while 32 Deacons and 21 Elders were ordained, and 37 admitted on trial. The total membership of the Churches was 62,951 whites, 465 blacks, and 206 Indians (chiefly at Wyandot Mission). Net increase for the year, 175 members. Two Wyandots (James Harraboot and Squire Grayeyes) were among those ordained.

In 1837, the Michigan Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, included the then State of Michigan and a large portion of Ohio. The Presiding Elders then were :



Detroit District-Wm. Herr. Ann Arbor-H. Colclazer. Maumee-John .lanes. Tiffin-L. B. Gurley. Norwalk-John H. Power. WoosterAdam Poe.

Among the appointments were the following: Norwalk District. Portland (Sandusky) Mission Thomas Barkdull. Norwalk-H. M. Shaffer, John M. Goshorn. Dover-Daniel M. Conant. Elyria Station-Jona. E. Chaplin. Wellington-John T. Kellam, J. C. Sawyer. Vermillion-.J. Mitchell, J. McIntyre. Paris-Elam Day, H. G. Dubois. Frederick-John Morey, Jas. S. Saxby. Mt. Vernon-Geo. Elliott. Martinsburg-J. Wheeler, Z. Bell; J. McMahon, Supernumerary. Wyandotte Mission-Samuel M. Allen. Agent for Norwalk Seminary, E. Raymond.

Maumee District. Perrysburg and Maumee-Jas. A. Kellam. Toledo-Ira Chase. Waterville Mission -Wesley Shortess, A. Coleman. Defiance-Sanford C. Parker, A. Minnis. Kalida Mission-Andrew Hollapater. Lima-Andrew M. Fitch. St. Mary's Mission-J. Hudson.

Tiffin District. Tiffin-Wm. Runnells. MexicoWesley Brock, James Wilson. Bucyrus-Thomas Thompson, .J. H. Frees. Mt. Gilead-Samuel Lynch. Sandusky-Leonard Hill, O. Monett. Port Clinton Mission-L. Parker. Findlay-J. O. Conoway, A. Bissell. Risdon Mission-R. Sheldon, R. L. Bowers. Kenton-P. Wareham.

The following were the assignments of Preachers for the Maumee District, Michigan Conference, Methodist Episcopal Church, for 1839-40:

John Janes, Presiding Elder. Maumee CityOliver Bargess. Perrysburg-R. H. Chubb, J. W. Boneer. Toledo-A. Coleman, S. B. Guiberson. Monroe-Andrew M. Fitch. Dearbornville-Chas. Babcock, A. Blanchard. Dundee-Daniel Barnes ; A. Baughman, Supernumerary. Palmyra-John Gray, P. T. Sheldon. Waterville Mission-J. S. Saxby, W. H. Collins. Pulaski Mission (Williams County)John Santley, James Freese.

The appointments for the Maumee District of the North Ohio Methodist Episcopal Conference made in September, 1848, were as follows:

Maumee-W. S. Lunt. Toledo-E. R. Jewett. Sylvania-Octavius Waters, J. M. Wilcox. Waterville-J. Burgess. Clinton-A. Foster. Pulaski and B. C. Mission-H. C. Chapman, A. H. Walter. Evansport, B. Hurlbert. - Defiance and Auglaize Mission-S. Fairchild. Gilboa-S. M. Beatty. Findlay-T. J. Pope, C. B. Bradbury. Wood-W. H. Seeley. Perrysburg - I. Ward. Presiding Elder G. W. Breckenridge.

Statistics of this Conference were published in 1855, as follows:

Number of Ministers, 202; No. employed, 190; Presiding Elders, 9; Principals, Professors and Agents of Colleges, Seminaries, &c., 121. Largest salary paid to Ministers, $546-smallest, $70; No. of places where over $500 was paid, 3 ; less than $300, 60; less than $200, 13; No. Church members, including probationers, 29,670; No. Sabbath Schools, 458, with 5,219 officers and teachers, and 25,981 children. Amount raised for Missionary Society, $11,642 ; for Sunday School Union, $80.91 ; for Tract Society, $6,271.56 ; for American Bible Society, $1,266.90. No. houses of worship, 414, valued at $360,875, with 77 parsonages, valued at $44,575.

In 1859, the Conferences of the State had been reorganized, Northwestern Ohio being in what was named Delaware Conference. At its session for that year, the following appointments were made

Presiding Elders-Delaware District-T. H. Wilson. Sidney-J. S. Kalb. Lima-E. C. Gavitt. Findlay--J. T. Caples. Toledo--Joseph Ayres. Kenton--J. M. Holmes.

Appointments for Findlay and Toledo Districts:

Findlay District. Findlay-L. B. Gurley. Fostoria--J. A. Shannon. Adrian--R. Biggs, P. A. Drown. Mt. Blanchard--S. Boggs. Fremont--W. S. Lunt. Pleasantville--J. Sterling, G. W. Money. Ft. Seneca--H. L. Nickerson. Shannon-B. B. Powell, B. F. Cozier. Bowling Green -S. L. Roberts, J. Adams. Woodville-W. H. Taylor, L. Tiedeman. Acadia-D. Gray, Lewis Dales. Ottawa-F. L. Harper.

Toledo District. Toledo-A. Nelson. Toledo City Mission (Ames Chapel)-Oliver Kennedy. Tremainesville- W. Thatcher. Perrysburg--J. Fegtley. Maumee and Waterville-Ambrose Hollington. Sylvania--S. D. Shaffer. Delta--A. B. Poe. West Unity--I. R. Henderson,.J. R. Colgan. Bryan-H. M. Chlose, G. W. Miller. Edgerton-M. Perkey. Montpelier--J. Wilcox. Defiance-E. B. Morrison. Brunersburg-J. Boyers. Napoleon--John Poucher.

Ohio Wesleyan University--W. L. Harris, W. G. Williams, Professors. Ohio Wesleyan Female College-Park S. Donelson, President ; George Mather, Professor. W. J. Wells, Agent.

The appointments of Presiding Elders in 1861 were as follows:

Delaware District, T. H. Wilson; Sidney District, Alex. Harmount; Lima District, H. H. Shaffer; Findlay District, J. Graham ; Toledo District, Joseph Ayres; Kenton District, .1. M. Holmes.

The appointments of Preachers were:

Toledo District: Toledo-1st Charge (St. Paul's), E. B. Morrison; 2d Charge (Ames Chapel), Ambrose Hollington. Tremainesville, Elnathan C. Gavitt; Maumee City, Wesley G. Waters ; Sylvania, John R. Colgan ; Delta, Abel M. Corey ; Wauseon, Lewis S.


588 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.

Dales; West Unity, Thos. N. Barkdull; Bryan, Fielding L. Harper ; Edgerton, Isaiah R. Henderson; Stryker, Geo. W. Miller; Defiance, Franklin Marriott; .Napoleon, Martin Perkey.

Findlay District: Findlay, John S. Kalb ; Fostoria, A. B. Poe ; Adrian, Jos. Good ; Fremont, S. H. Alderman; Arcadia, Wm. S. Lunt, Richard Biggs ; McComb, H. S. Nickerson, David Gray ; Fort Seneca, Josiah Adams ; Shannon, John Sterling, Harrison altbie ; Bowling Green, Gershom Lease, Isaac N. Kalb ; Woodville, Jason Wilcox ; Perrysburg, John A. Shannon.

Delaware Conference met at Toledo, September 17, 1857, Bishop Baker presiding. The most important action taken by it aside from its appointments, was the adoption of the report of a Committee on the subject of Slavery, which strongly deprecated that institution. Among other things, Conference declared, that "American Slavery was, and always had been, an unmitigated sin against God and humanity;" that " We, as a Church, stand intimately associated with the weal or woe of this Nation;" that " while the Methodist Episcopal Church is and has ever been Anti-Slavery, there is much that she can and ought to do, to place her in an unequivocal position before the world ; " that "in the judgment of this Conference, the General Rule should be so amended as to make Slaveholding a test of membership;" and that "we rejoice at the increasing public sentiment against Slavery."

Following is a list of veterans in the Methodist service, as given by the records of Central Ohio Conference in 1870, who then retained their connection with the Church, with date of commencement of service and Postoffice address at the date named:

S. H. Alderman, 1841, Kenton; S. M. Allen,* 1833, Dayton ; Joseph Ayres,{ 1846, Kenton ; Richard Biggs, 1840, Rawson ; C. B. Brandebury, (t) 1838, Delaware ; Harvey Camp,* 1833, New York; Ira Chase,* 1835, Delaware ; R. H. Chubb, (t) 1838, Perrysburg; Elnathan C. Gavitt, 1830, Toledo ; David Gray,* 1835, Findlay ; Wm. L. Harris, 1837, New York; Alex. Harmount, 1843, Delaware ; J. S. Kalb, 1843, Sylvania ; Salmon Lindsay, 1843, Forest ; Wm. S. Lunt,* 1846, Toledo; Samuel Lynch, (t) 1843, Mt. Vernon; D. D. Mather, 1842, Delaware ; H. E. Pilcher, (t) 1830, Van Wert; Henry O. Sheldon,* 1825, North Bass Island ; Philip Wareham,* 1842, Whartensburg; Wesley J. Wells, (t) 1835, Toledo; Edward Williams,* 1835, Lima ; Thos. H. Wilson, 1842, Toledo; W. W. Winter, 1842, Toledo ; Joseph Wykes, 1847, Sidney. (*Superannuated. (t) Supernumerary.)

Rev. Elnathan C. Gavitt first came to the Maumee Valley in 1827, as an Itinerant Preacher of the Methodist Episcopal Church. At that time there was not a bridge across any stream in this section of country. He had often been compelled to swim streams ; in doing which, it was his custom to fasten his saddle-bags to the top of the horn of his saddle , fasten up the stirrups ; then drive his horse into the stream, catch him by the tail, and thus be towed across. He had gone through the Black Swamp from Perrysburg to Lower Sandusky (Fremont), when his horse scarcely touched the ground the entire distance, traveling wholly on ice. There was then no road through the Swamp, and travelers were compelled to follow a trail. He had been four days in making the trip of 31 miles. He labored among the Wyandot Indians at Upper Sandusky, in 1833, and at other times in Canada; while his itinerancy covered most localities in Northern and Northwestern Ohio.

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCHES.

What is now known as the First Congregational Church of Toledo, had its origin in the First Presbyterian Church, which was organized in 1833, being the first organization of a Church within the present limits of Toledo. The first three Ministers of the Church (serving as stated supplies only) were Rev. Warren Isham, Rev. Isaac Flagler, and Rev. Geo. R. Haswell. In 1841, under Mr. Haswell's ministry, the Church changed its form of government from Presbyterian to Congregational. During the ministry of Rev. Mr. Lawrence, a portion of the Church, with the Minister, returned to Presbyterian government, from which time until 1844, two organizations existed. In July, 1844, the two came together, as the First Congregational Church. In February, 1845, the Church was admitted to the Maumee Presbytery, on what was known as the " Plan of Union," under which many Congregational Churches in Northern Ohio, while retaining their peculiar form of government, were admitted to representation in the judicatories of the Presbyterian Church. At the time named, this Church had 33 members. In September, 1844, Rev. Wm. H. Beecher was chosen as Pastor, but never was installed, although acting as Minister until 1847, when Rev. Anson Smythe became the Pastor, continuing as such until January, 1850. The services on the occasion of the installation of Mr. Smythe were participated in by the following named Ministers: Rev. Mr. Emerson, of Plain, Wood County ; Rev. Mr. Tomlinson, of Maumee City ; Rev. Mr. Johnson, of Fulton ; Rev. Mr. Tucker, of Defiance, and Rev. Mr. Fay, of Montgomery, Wood County. The choir was led by Deacon Mavor Brigham. The membership of the Church to that time had been as follows: January 1st, 1845, 38; 1846, 43; 1847, 42; 1850, 66. During Mr. Beecher's service, a new house of worship was erected on a lot donated by the proprietors of the Port Lawrence Town plat, being the present site of the edifice of the Church. The cost of the building was about $6,500, or about $100 for each member.

The first Church edifice erected in Toledo, was built largely at the expense of Heman Walbridge and Edward Bissell, on the corner of Cherry and Superior Streets, and for the use of this Church, having been dedicated May 3, 1838. The building was dedicated May 3, 1838,


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the sermon being delivered by Rev. D. C Bloodgood, of Tecumseh, Michigan. The Pastor at that time was Rev. Isaac Flagler The house was occupied for such purpose for some time, but ere long, under the financial prostration of that period, it was sold by the Sheriff and passed into the hands of the Catholic Church. The building was of wood, and now constitutes a portion of the School-build ing in rear of St. Francis de Sales Church. Rev. Samuel Wright became the Pastor of the Church in July, 1851, serving about one year, when he died of cholera, to which disease e subjected himself by exposure in heroic attendance upon those sick with the same. About one year from that time, Rev. Wm. W. Williams, of Camillus, New York, was called, and September 1, 1853, entered upon the pastorate, which, to this time-a period of 34 years-still continues. In 1856, the Church edifice having become inadequate for the demands of the congregation, it was enlarged at a cost of about $4,500. In May, 1861, the building was destroyed by fire, and the Church temporarily occupied White's Hall, a commodious room then just completed, 217-221 Summit Street. A new and larger edifice was built at a cost of $20,000, and was dedicated February 22, 1863, the following clergymen taking part in the services: Rev. E. F. Platt, Pastor of First Baptist Church, Toledo ; Rev. G. A. Adams, Pastor Presbyterian Church, Perrysburg; Rev. J. E. Weed, City Missionary, Toledo; Rev. E. Bushnell, of Presbyterian Church, Fremont; Rev. J. W. Walter, Pastor Presbyterian Church, Milan ; Rev. Mr. Judson, Sylvania ; and the Pastor, Rev. Win. W. Williams. In 1877, the accommodations of the Church having again become insufficient, when the present larger and more elegant edifice was erected at a cost, including furniture, organ and carpets, of $55,000.

When the matter of building a house of worship was decided on in 1844, the question of location arose. Two offers were made the Society-one by the Port Lawrence Company, through Wm. Oliver, its Trustee, of the lot on St. Clair Street, the present site of the Church ; and another by the late Jessup W. Scott, of the lot on the Southwest corner of Adams and Huron Streets. A Committee of the Board of Trustees visited the two locations. They found the former in a wild state, without Street or other improvement nearer to it than Summit Street, save a partially covered frame where now stands the West end of the Hall Block (corner of Jefferson Street). St. Clair was not then opened, nor was there any clearing within halt a mile to the Northwest. The Committee visited the Adams Street lot. To get to it they were compelled to pick their way on logs, bogs and isolated points of earth, surrounded by standing water of greater or less depth. Finally reaching the spot, they found a piece of ground a foot above the water and about large enough for a Church site ; but without access except as stated. It was at once found that it would require more to provide a road to the lot, than they had raised for the erection of an edifice; hence that site was given up and the other chosen. It is only those who saw that portion of Toledo in those days, who can appreciate the contrast of the view then seen with the one presented in the large and elegant buildings now surrounding the Church, and in the substantial structures which have succeeded the bogs, pools and morass of the Mud Creek region.

The edifice of 1844 was 45x70 feet in size, and was set back from the Street to allow for a front addition of 33 feet, which was made in 1856. Among the contents of the box placed in the corner-stone of the building were the following

A copy of the Toledo Blade, of date of September 13, 1844, Jessup W. Scott, Editor ; and Abel W. Fairbanks, Publisher. It was a Whig paper, and then supported Henry Clay as the Whig candidate for President. With that was a copy (Volume I., No. 2) of the Toledo Gazette (Levi Shaw, Publisher), a Democratic paper, supporting James K. Polk for President. Also, a list of subscribers to the building fund of 1844, was there, which contained the names of John Fitch, James Myers, W. J. Daniels, Richard Mott, Charles Butler (New York), David Crane, Henry Bennett, Calvin Stevens, Chas. G. Keeler, Coleman I. Keeler, Jr., D. O. Morton, Wm. H. Raymond, Salter Cleveland, Ira L. Clark, J. W. Turner, C. M. Dorr, Thos. Southard, H. P. Espy, Mavor Brigham, Leander Hill, Calvin Smith, Joseph Jones, Osgood & Read, M. L. Collins, Matthew Brown, L. Lindsley, L. I. Loomis, Leveret Bissell, Edwin Avery, J. D. Thomas, John Mosher. The subscriptions ranged in amounts from $5 to $300, of which 9 were payable in materials and labor. The total was $2,070.

This box, with its contents, was deposited in the corner stone of the new building, which was dedicated February 22, 1863, and was again placed in like position in the third edifice, erected in 1877, with suitable additions of like nature.

The growth of this Church in membership during the past 34 years, is shown by the following statement of members: In 1853, 83 members ; in 1860, 132; in 1865, 255 ; in 1870, 407 ; in 1886, 518; in 1887, 521. The largest accession in membership was in 1866 (68 upon profession of faith, and 45 by letter). The next highest in one year was 75, in 1858 (50 upon profession and 25 by letter).

Three outgrowths from this Church have taken place. The first was in 1854, for the formation of the First Presbyterian Church ; the second, in 1865, for the organization of Westminster Presbyterian Church ; and the third, in 1873, when the Washington Street Congregational Church was instituted. The latter two cases made the heaviest drafts upon the membership of this Church; and it is noticeable, that each was followed the next year by


590 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.

additions of members which far more than compensated for the loss by withdrawal.

A prominent feature of the work of this Church, for more than 34 years past, has been its Sabbath School, which has been large and flourishing, a fact largely due to the efficient management of the Pastor, under whose direction it has been throughout that time.

The officers of the Church for 1887, were as follows:

Standing Committee-Deacons Mavor Brigham, Salmon H. Keeler, Samuel Bement, Franklin Hubbard and Chancey H. Buck ; and D. N. Trowbridge, James A. Tenney, Wm. H. Eager, Geo. R. Haynes and W. A. Rundell.

Trustees-S. H. Keeler (President), F. Hubbard, C. H. Buck, Fred. Eaton, M. D. Carrington (deceased).

Secretary and Treasurer-J. W. Walterhouse.

The first Sabbath School work undertaken in the region East of Toledo was in 1849, when Rev. Ezra Howland, a veteran minister of the Congregational denomination, established a School in an old log Church. A second School was opened at DeBolt's Corners, not long thereafter, by Horace N. Howland, son of the pioneer. This work soon passed into the hands of the United Brethren. Rev. Mr. Howland also established a School in the Oregon Town House, which was taken in charge by the Lutherans.

Oliver M. Brown organized the first Sabbath School in East Toledo, on an undenominational basis, and managed it until e went into the Army in 1861. This movement was the plant of the Baptist Church, organized not long thereafter.

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH of Oregon Township, organized in 1849, became, in January, 1869, Second Congregational Church of Toledo. Its house of worship is located North side Fourth, between Cherry and Oak Streets. The Pastor in 1887, was Rev. J. C. Aganere, when its membership was 124.



CENTRAL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH was organized February 5, 1881, its membership consisting mainly of persons bearing letters from Westminster Presbyterian Church. Reverend Henry M. Bacon, D. D., for 15 years Pastor of the latter Church, was chosen to like position in the new organization. The officers chosen were as follows : Deacons-David E. Merrill and Albert Cooke. Deaconesses-Mesdames E. Bateman, C. L. Young and E. Bramwell. For purposes of worship the building previously erected for the Independent (sometimes known as Unitarian) Church, at the corner of Adams and 10th Streets, was engaged, which since that time has been materially improved. The membership in 1887 was 265. Dr. Bacon continues as the Pastor.

WASHINGTON ST. CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. In the Summer of 1860, a Sabbath School was opened in a small frame dwelling house on Erie Street, and near the Canal Weigh-Locks. It received the name of "Point Mission." The movement was not the most hopeful, the character of the neighborhood being such as at one time to require for the School the protecting care of a Policeman. Its friends persisted in their efforts, and by September were fairly established, with Daniel A. Waterman as Superintendent, who served until January, 1864. The succeeding Superintendents were as follows : Don A. Pease, January, 1864, to January, 1865; C. H. Buck, January, 1865, to January, 1875. In 1873, the School having been removed to Washington Street, near Dorr, a permanent organization-Washington Street Congregational Church-was effected, and the Sabbath School connected with it. From 1875 the Superintendents were E. H. Rhoades, Rev. Ira C. Billman and Marion Lawrence-the last the present incumbent. The Pastors of the new Church have been as follows: From October, 1873, to September, 1874, Rev. Jacob F. Ellis ; October, 1874, to October, 1876, Rev. Ira C. Billman ; October, 1876, to September, 1881, Rev. Robert McCune; October, 1881, to January, 1883, Rev. T. C. Northcott ; April, 1883, to October, 1885, Rev. Joseph H. Jenkins; October, 1885, to October, 1887, Rev. A. B. White.

LAGRANGE STREET MISSION CHURCH. On the 14th July, 1867, a Sabbath School was started in the Protestant Orphans' Home, which had been opened in January preceding. Mr. C. R. Buck had charge of the enterprise, with Miss Jane E. McMillan as his Assistant. The attendance of Scholars at first was 14. In April, 1875, a small building across the Street was rented. May 20, 1883, a new Chapel building was dedicated, and June 3, following, Lagrange Street Mission Church was organized, and Rev. P. S. Slevin chosen as Chaplain. In March, 1884, Rev. A. D. Olds became Pastor of the Church, serving as such for two years, when, owing to poor health, he was compelled to withdraw. Between September, 1867, and October, 1874, Col. D. F. DeWolf, C. H. Scott and T. A. Nelson acted as Superintendent. At the latter date Mr. Buck resumed charge, and has continued as Superintendent to this time.

PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL.

The first Protestant Episcopal Church organized within Lucas County, was St. Paul's, Maumee City. This took place in 1837, the first clergyman in charge being Rev. B. H. Hickox, from the Diocese of New York. The second Episcopal organization in the County took place at Manhattan, in 1838.

The first record found of services in Toledo, under auspices of the Protestant Episcopal Church, is that Rev. Mr. Lyster held services "at the Court-Room, Port Lawrence," April 22, 1837.


PERMANENT RELIGIOUS WORK. - 591

TRINITY CHURCH.-The first step taken toward the organization of a Church of that denomination in Toledo consisted of the visit of Bishop Mcllvaine, in May, 1840, when he held service and preached in the Presbyterian Church, corner of Cherry and Superior Streets, now the site of St. Francis de Sales Church. This action was followed by Rev. Joseph S. Large, Rector of St. Paul's, Maumee City, who held frequent services here on Sunday afternoons, making the trip from Maumee on horseback, and returning for his regular evening service. The room occupied in Toledo was in a frame building on Summit Street, between Cherry and Walnut, which now has a brick front. So successful were such labors that in March, 1842, Bishop Mcllvaine again visited Toledo, when a meeting of citizens interested in the enterprise was held, at which the following paper was adopted and signed, to wit:

We, whose names are hereto affixed, deeply impressed with the importance of the Christian religion, and earnestly wishing to promote its holy in fluence in the hearts and lives of ourselves, our families and our neighbors, do hereby associate ourselves together under the name, style, and title of the Parish of Trinity Church, in the Township of Toledo, County of Lucas, and State of Ohio, and by so doing do adopt the constitution and canons of the Protestant Episcopal Church of the Diocese of Ohio, in communion with the Protestant Episcopal Church of the United States of America.

The foregoing paper bears the names, of the following persons, to wit: Myron H. Tilden, Dr. Geo. R. Perkins, Daniel O. Morton, Levi S. Lownsbury, D. F. Stowe, Leverett Bissell, A. Ralston jr., James I. Fullerton, Truman C. Everts, Andrew Palmer, Theo. S. Daniels, Decius Wadsworth, Daniel Wadsworth, Charles Ira Scott, and Denison B. Smith. Within the next two years the names of Egbert B. Brown, Thomas H. Hough, Timothy Tredwell, Wm. N. Newton, Daniel Swift, Chas. B. Phillips, Henry Bennett, Simeon Fitch, Matthew Johnson, and Chas. R. Miller, were added. Of the original number, Mr. Scott is now the only resident survivor. Mr. Palmer is at Janesville, Wis.; Judge Tilden, at Cincinnati ; Mr. Ralston at Lockport, New York. At that time all corporations were authorized by special act of the Legislature, and on the 19th of December, 1842, a meeting was held at the room named (then occupied by the City Council), at which steps were taken for the legal organization of the " Wardens and Vestry of Trinity Church, Toledo." At that meeting Emery D. Potter was Chairman and A. Ralston, Jr., Secretary. The act of incorporation having been accepted, the following named Wardens and Vestrymen were chosen: Senior Warden-Emery D. Potter ; Junior Warden-Andrew Palmer. Vestrymen-Leverett Bissell, Myron H. Tilden, Daniel O. Morton, Alexander Ralston, Leander Hill, Dwight F. Stow, Hiram C. Clark, Levi S. Lownsbury. Rev. Mr. Large was asked to continue his services with the Church, and did so. In April, 1842, he was invited to become its Rector, and in July assumed such office, holding the same for a time. June 28, 1844, Levi S. Lownsbury, Chas. I. Scott and Denison B. Smith, were recommended to the Bishop for appointment as lay readers. In July, 1844, Rev. Mr. Sturgis was requested to hold one service each week, for the sum of $5 each. At the same time steps were taken for the erection of a house of worship, which was completed in January, 1845, and consecrated November 16th, following, by Bishop Mcllvaine. The Blade expressed gratification in the fact that a considerable number of citizens of Maumee were present on the occasion, and the belief that "the habit of worshipping together would pro-


592 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.

duce more kindly feelings between the more liberal people of the neighboring Towns." This building was of wood and occupied the site of the present edifice corner of Adams and St. Clair Streets, until removed across St. Clair Street, where it now stands. In February, 1845, Rev. D. J. Burger was elected Rector, at a salary of $500, holding the position until May, 1846, when ill health compelled his resignation. He died June 13, 1847, aged 33 years. Mr. Burger left a wife and children. Rev. Charles Avery succeeded in September, and remained sometime. Between the withdrawal of Mr. Burger, in 1846, and March, 1848, no less than five clergymen had been elected as Rector, and declined, to wit: Rev. Mr. Cushing, of West Farms, N. Y., in 1846; Rev. Mr. Phelps, of New York, November, 1847 ; Rev. Mr. Evans, New York, December, 1847; and Rev. James A. Bolles, now of Cleveland, January 31st, 1848. The total number of persons elected to that time, was 13. March 20, 1848, Rev. Henry B. Walbridge, of Lockport, New York, was called to the charge of the Church, and accepted, his salary subsequently being fixed at $750. Up to that time the Parish was represented at different periods in the Vestry by E. D. Potter, Andrew Palmer, Alexander Ralston, Levi S. Lownsbury, Myron H. Tilden, Daniel 0. Morton, Leander Hill, Dwight F. Stow, Hiram C. Clark, W. Titus, Henry Bennett, C. I. Scott, Thos. H. Hough, Decius Wadsworth, E. B. Brown, W. A. Chamberlin, Ira L. Clark, Simeon Fitch, Jr., Matthew Johnson, W. H. Newton, Thos. Manly, Daniel Swift, E. Haskell, Geo. Pendleton and D. B. Smith.

Under the lead of the new Rector the Church soon showed evidence of new life and unwonted advancement. It was his first Pastoral care, and continued for 20 years (until 1868), when be resigned to continue his service in Brooklyn, New York. The withdrawal of Dr. Walbridge was an occasion of much interest with the Church, and called forth a strong expression of regret at his step and desire for his welfare and usefulness. In a letter dated at Brooklyn, November 27, 1876, Dr. Walbridge refers with some detail, to the condition of Toledo as found on his arrival and during the earlier years of his residence here. Amon other things, he said

It was in the latter part of the first week in April after a slow, lingering-by-the-way voyage from buffalo, on that even then venerable high-pressure hoarse-coughing, tub-shaped steamer Dewitt Clinton that I reached your city in the very nick of time the frost-loosening, cloud showering, spring tide season, to see it in the full bloom of its then chief glory, viz.: The glory of mud; mud on the right o you, mud on the left of you, mud right in front of you, mud everywhere. Incomparable mud, yellow and blue ; here and there green, sometimes stiff generally soft and always greasy.

I doubt if the very worst conditioned streets in the newest quarters of your rapidly growing, wide spreading City can afford the beholder an approxmate idea of the forbidding aspect of its chief avenue in 1848. From Adams almost to Monroe on Summit street, now fronted on either side with large and elegant structures, and entirely occupied with mercantile buildings, was banked on both sides with walls of clay varying in height from 5 to 20 feet, and looked very much like the channel of an abandoned ship-canal. On the Northerly side there was a plank side-walk, here and there tipped up by the pressure of scooping slides of its clay rampart, to an angle, at all times inconvenient, and on a wet day often putting uncareful pedestrians through acrobatic exercises more amusing to the beholders, than satisfactory to the performers. The roadway for the spring and fall and sometimes for most of the winter season, was very much like the puddling pit of an old fashioned brick yard, severely challenging the courage of a strong team, and sometimes compelling the inglorious surrender of a half loaded cart to the sovereign majesty of mud.

Dr. Walbridge located his family on Elm Street, and his letter describes a trip thence to the Church, thus:

Let us go now and see the Church, observing on our way its immediate surroundings. We can reach it from Down Town by the plank walk on the Northwesterly side of Summit Street, the only one connecting two nuclei of residences, which were distinctly separated by a broad unoccupied space, extending from Cherry nearly to Madison. Near the Northwest corner of Cherry Street are two frame dwellings, one occupied by Egbert S. Brown, a Vestryman of the Parish. Passing diagonally across the head of St. Clair Street and looking in the direction of that Street, over the low land, here and there dotted with bogs a little more swampy than the rest, we see scarcely a house of any kind short of Ira L. Clark's at the corner of Washington and Michigan, and Edward Bissell's one-story cottage at the corner of Monroe and Eleventh Streets. Passing on, we see neither store nor dwelling on either side of Summit Street until within 10 or 12 rods of Adams we find what was evidently intended for a dwelling, now occupied as a furniture shop (Stockman's), and near it is a small brick building, in which was the Postoffice. Nearing Adams, at our right hand corner is a deep excavation made preparatory to the erection of a large public Hotel, which the boys call "Trinity Pond." Nearly opposite is a two-story wooden structure standing on log stilts over the head of a deep ravine, the office of the Toledo Blade. Looking towards the River over ponds of water, inclosed by the filling in of Water Street, we see here and there a number of store houses dotting the River front, notably those at the foot of Cherry Street, occupied by Brown & King, Denison B. Smith, C. A. King & Co., and others. Or suppose we come from the opposite direction from the Indiana House, a pretentious edifice, with ponderous columns supporting nothing, at the corner of Perry and Summit Streets. We first pass a few stores closely packed together, till arriving mid-way between Monroe and Jefferson we come to a high clay bank, on which stands a dilapidated structure called the Jefferson House ; beyond that the continuation of the same bank with nothing on it; then Stow's jewelry store, at the corner of Jefferson, crossing which, save one wood frame loftily perched, we find no buildings of any kind on either side of Summit Street. Going along Adams to near its intersection with St. Clair, we come to the Church yard gate, ascend a short flight of steps to the Church yard level, then about 20 feet further another flight and we stand on a narrow uncovered platform at the Church door, from whence looking across St. Clair Street, nothing ob-


PERMANENT RELIGIOUS WORK. - 593

structs a wide view of the native forest. Across Summit Street the eye rests upon the broad River and its beautiful further shore, bright with living verdure even to the water's edge.

Entering the Church we find a flat ceiled room 30 feet long, 60 wide, having windows large enough for a Cathedral, but comfortably darkened with outside blinds. Against the rear end wall a black fortification, looking very much like the Judge's bench in a Court House, and broad enough to hold a platoon of Soldiers, this was the pulpit. The robing room was a dark closet, about three by six feet, at one end of the vestibule; at the other end, stairs leading to a gallery over the vestibule. This location of the robing retreat, it will be seen, requires the Minister to do some traveling during service time (four times the length of the Church), for it would have been very perilous in those days to have preached in a surplice anywhere, and especially in Ohio. Entering the pulpit, we have on our left hand, occupying a large square pew, Judge Mason and family, on the right, a cluster of young unmarried men, Manly, Everts, Phillips and others. In the farther right hand pew, Henry Bennett and family. Corresponding in the far corner, Deems Wadsworth and family. Elsewhere scattered about, Matthew Johnson, Egbert S. Brown*, General Brown, Charles l. Scott*, Levi S. Lownsbury, George Pendleton, Robert Lawton, T. H. Hough, James M. Comstock, Edward Strong, James M. Whitney, Ira L. Clark, Willard J. Daniels, Charles A. King, Judge Tilden"', Doctor Hazlett, Thomas Dunlap* D. B. Smith*, Frank J. King*, A. W. Fairbanks*, Frederick Bissell, and many others with their families, making together a congregation of a hundred and more, in point of intelligence and social standing much above the average.

Of the 26 persons here named by Dr. Walbridge as in the congregation of 1848, the eight marked with a star were living in November, 1887.

In February, 1869, Rev. James Mulcahey, D. D., was elected Rector, and accepted the call, and remained with the Church to its general acceptance and success until his resignation in January, 1874, at which time he was appointed as a minister in Trinity Church, New York City.

January 24, 1874, Rev. E. R. Atwill was elected Rector, and declined.

In March following, Rev. Leighton Coleman, D. D., was elected, and soon entered upon the work, remaining until March, 1876, when, in consequence of the ill health of Mrs. Coleman, he resigned ; but his resignation not being accepted, Rev. Professor Brooke was engaged temporarily to act. In November, 1877, Dr. Coleman resumed his work, and continued it until July, 1879, when, owing to the continued illness of Mrs. Coleman, he finally withdrew and went to England, where he and his family remained until 1887, when he became the Rector of a Church in Sayre, Pennsylvania.

Rev. Edwin R. Atwill, D.D., was again elected Rector, accepted and entered upon the discharge of the duties of the office in January, 1882. His only previous Church work had been at Burlington, Vermont, where he labored for 12 years. He continues in Trinity to the general acceptance of the Parish.

The membership of the Church in 1856 was 100 ; in 1866, 245 ; in 1882, 300; and in 1886, 390.

The site of Trinity Church (lots 163 and 164, Port Lawrence), was donated to Trinity Society by the American Land Company, of which Charles Butler was the President, in July, 1844, upon the condition " that within years from date, the Society erect thereon a building for a Church, and forever occupy the premises for a Church and Parsonage, and for no other purpose whatever." Previous to that time (December, 1843), these lots had been forfeited and reforfeited by non-payment of taxes, and had been sold at public sale for such delinquency. One was purchased by Jerome Myers for $7.00, and the other by Daniel McBain for $6.50 and both transferred to Trinity Church, having evidently been purchased with that view.

A financial statement of the Parish prepared in 1886, showed the aggregate contributions to the support of Trinity Church, to local mission enterprises and to other Church work, to have reached the large suns of $316,710. Among the objects included in such expenditure were the following:

The original house of worship, completed in 1844, $4,000; the building of St. John's Chapel in 1870, and Grace Church in 1873-4, $11,500 ; the cost of the present Trinity edifice, $47,000; the grand organ in Trinity, purchased in 1870, $6,300; Calvary Mission and Chapel, 1873-76, $5,300; Parish School, 1874, $3,000; Trinity Parish Building and Chapel, 1875, $25,700. From pew rents and special offerings for current expenditures, from 1858 (when the record begins), $157,428. The report does not include the contributions by the several Ladies' Benevolent Societies of the Parish during the past 20 years, which are estimated to amount to several thousand dollars.

ST. JOHN'S CHURCH. In 1860, Rev. Henry B. Walbridge, D. D., Rector of Trinity Church, laid before his Vestry a proposition from Mr. Stephen Thorn, of Utica, New York, to lease to the Vestry, lot 604, Port Lawrence Division (Eleventh Street), for the sum of $50 for the first year, $20 additional each succeeding year to 1870, with the privilege of purchasing the same any time within two years for $1,500, or for $1,750 if within six years. The proposition was accepted, and C. A. King, C. Yardley and D. B. Smith were appointed to complete the contract; and also to make a contract for a Chapel building. On the 9th December, 1.861, the Committee reported the completion of the building, furnished, at a cost of 81,424.85. The Rector gave it the name of St. John's Chapel. It was about one-half the size of the present Church edifice, and was paid for by the Vestry of Trinity Church.

In the same month (December, 1861), Rev. N. R. High, then Rector of a Parish in Logansport, Ind., was called by the Vestry of Trinity Church to be assistant minister and have charge


594 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.



of St. John's Chapel, at a salary of $600 per year. He arrived in Toledo January 2, 1862, and found a small Chapel, ground not paid for, and no congregation. He devoted himself to his work as Rector most diligently, and in a short time had a fair congregation about him. The mother Church for a time continued to bear a portion of the expenses of the Mission ; but in April, 1863, it seemed best for the congregation that it should sever its connection with Trinity as a Mission, and become a Parish. There was a meeting of the congregation called, Wardens and Vestrymen elected and the Parish duly incorporated. The first election of officers resulted as follows : Senior Warden, Timothy Tredwell; Junior Warden, T. Jackson; Vestrymen, W. L. Lamb, C. M. Woodbury, A. L. Kelsey, Henry Bennett, G. H. Martin, D. Segur, T. Crampton and W. Merchant.

In the spring of 1864 the rectory was built on the same lot, some $300 having been raised by the Ladies' Aid Society, and the remainder begged by the Rector, who used to call himself "Chief of Beggars."

In August, 1865, the lot was purchased of Mr. Thorn for $1,750.

In 1866, there was $1,000 yet due on the lot, and just when the Vestry were taking steps to raise the money to pay it, a fire damaged the Church very seriously, but as it stimulated the persevering Rector and his people to greater efforts, it resulted in advantage by additions to the house, which was made much more commodious.

In February, 1881, Mr. High was attacked with severe hemorrhages, from which he never recovered, although he continued to minister to the Parish until within two weeks of his death, February 19, 1884.

At the expiration of Mr. High's ministry, there was an average congregation of 200, and a communion list of' about the same number. All who knew him bear witness to his faithfulness.

After Mr. High's death, the Rev. Chas. H. DeGarmo was called as Rector.

GRACE CHURCH.-In 1868, a Mission was started, under the auspices of Trinity-Church, in the First Ward of the City, at first finding accommodations at the residence of Miss Anna Church, on Erie near Bush Street. Rev. Dr. Mulcahey, while Rector of Trinity, took an active part in the work. The Parish was organized in February, 1873, with the following Vestrymen: Henry Bennett, Courtland Yardley, A. G. Clark E. D. Potter, Jr., A. L Kelsey, N km. Shiell, W. W. Backus, and Irwin I. Millard. The first Wardens were : F. L. Nichols, as Senior, and E. G. Peckham, as Junior.

C. A. King contributed a lot as a site for a Church, which was sold, the proceeds being used in the purchase of' the location on Stickney Avenue. With contributions from Trinity Parish, with H. S. Walbridge as Chairman of the Building Committee, the present edifice was erected at a cost of $7,000. For a time Rev. E. T. Perkins, and afterwards Rev. Samuel French, Assistant at Trinity, acted as Rector, From 1873 to 1875, Rev. Frank M. Hall thus served the Church ; being succeeded by Revs. S. S. Stevens, Arnold Carstensen, E. L. Kemp, Samuel Moran, S. P. Blackiston, and A. P. Gorrell. While Rector of Trinity, Rev. Dr. Coleman took an active interest in the enterprise, as has Rev. Dr. Atwill since he succeeded Dr. Coleman. In 1882 the former gentleman was elected Rector of Grace, and appointed .Rev. W. C. Hopkins as his Assistant, who began his service in July of that year, and continued the same until 1883, when he was elected Rector, and continues as such. A Rectory has been provided, mainly through the liberality of members of' Trinity Parish.

CALVARY MISSION.-In the Slimmer of 1869, Rev. Dr. Mulcahey, of Trinity, began occasional services in the Fifth Ward, at first occupying Chamberlin Hall, Southeast corner Broadway and Segur Avenue, which in 1871 resulted in the organization of' Calvary Mission. During the same year a handsome Chapel was erected on Broadway. Rev. E. T. Perkins, then recently ordained here, was placed in charge of the work, which was successful until the building was burned. This misfortune was not overcome until the erection in 1878 of the present superior house on Western Avenue, near Broadway. Since Mr. Perkins, the clergymen in charge have been Rev. Mr. Welton, who died in the service; and Rev. C. T. Stout. The communion list of the Church is about 100, and average attendance 200.

ST. PAUL'S MISSION.-In 1884, Rev. Dr. Atwill, Rector of Trinity Church, commenced services in East Toledo, with more especial reference to supplying religious privileges to the laboring population in connection with the Maumee Rolling Mills, then expected soon to be in full operation. Delay in the full commencement of that establishment seriously affected the religious enterprise, which, notwithstanding, has gained a foothold, and now, under improved conditions, promises success. It is known as St. Paul's Mission, and Dr. Atwill now holds services there each Sabbath afternoon.


THE CATHOLIC CHURCH.

Record of the earlier steps taken toward the establishment of Churches of the Catholic denomination, is difficult to be found. Under the administration of Bishop (late Archbishop) Purcell, Priests made irregular visits to the Maumee Valley for special work. Among these are named Fathers McNamee and Howard. As near as can now be ascertained, the first definite steps toward permanent work by that Church at this point, were taken by Father Armedeus Rappe, in 1841. That gentleman


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had spent the first years of his priesthood in France, and at the bead of an important institution of that country. Ere long his attention was drawn to Church work in America, and he became interested therein. It so happened, that about that time (1839) Bishop Purcell visited Europe, and Father Rappe met him in London. The result of the interview was an engagement for the young Priest to come to the United States, and he reached Cincinnati the latter part of 1840, when he was sent to Chillicothe, to learn English of Marshall Anderson. In 1841, he was sent to Toledo. Of the state of things in this new field at that time, a writer personally familiar with the same, says

Catholics here (Toledo) were very few in number and had neither Church nor Priest. Tiffin was the nearest place whence sick calls were attended. The Miami & Erie Canal was being built about this time, and there came a large influx of Catholic laborers. who settled along the line of the Canal and Maumee River. There was much sickness here, the dread " Maumee fever" undermining the strongest constitution and hurrying many of its victims to early graves. There was also much intemperance among laborers, who spent their hard-earned money for drink and allowed their families to want. To this uncultivated and uninviting field of labor Father Rappe was sent by the Bishop. His "Parish limits" extended from Toledo to the Indiana State line and as far South as Allen County. From the Summer of 1841 to the Spring of 1846 his labors, privations and difficulties of all kinds were indeed trying. He never lost courage, but, full of missionary zeal and self-sacrifice, labored faithfully among his people. It was here that he first saw the terrible effects of intemperance which so filled him with a horror of this vice that he fought it then and during the remainder of his life by word and example. Thousands bless his memory for the energetic measures he took in rescuing them from drunkards' graves.



Father Rappe was alone in this field for five years, when his excessive labors were shared by Father Louis De Goesbriand, subsequently Bishop of Burlington, Vermont. Of the situation at Toledo at that time, e wrote as follows:

At certain seasons it was almost impossible to meet a healthy-looking person, and frequently entire families were sick and unable to help one another. Apart from the terrible malarial fever, we were occasionally visited by such epidemics as erysipelas, and towards the end of 1817 we saw the ship fever stricken emigrants landing on the docks to die among strangers within a few hours after arrival.

Upon the arrival of Father Rappe, matters began to change. A Parish was organized, and named St. Francis de Sales. He soon purchased the building formerly occupied by the Presbyterian Church, corner of Cherry and Superior Streets, at a cost, including the lot, of $2,400. The building was of wood, and now constitutes a portion of the School building, in rear of' St. Francis de Sales edifice. Temperance Societies were formed to resist the sad ravages of alcohol among the people ; and by day and by night the energetic missionary was seen wherever his presence could promote the well-being -spiritual or temporal-of his parishioners. Results soon appeared, in the reformation of large numbers of laborers on the Canal, who had been squandering their wages in dissipation, but many of whom soon became sober and provident, and invested in homes the means so long sunk in drink. The early records are missing. The first found is that of the baptism by Father Rappe, October 31, 1841, of James, son of Thomas David and Catherine Comerford-David Borien and Mary Ann Borien acting as sponsors. Father Rappe for a time supplied also a Church at Maumee City, visiting both on each Sabbath.

The completion of the Canal left the larger portion of the Catholic laborers without employment, and most of them soon left, whereby Father Rappe's local charge was materially reduced in importance. But the extent of his field devolved upon him great responsibility d incessant labor. he continued to say mass regularly at Toledo and Maumee on Sundays, and on week days at Providence, Defiance, Poplar Ridge, and occasionally at Fremont and La Prairie. In January, 1847. the City Council voted to Rev. Armedeus Rappe, the sum of $50, for ringing the City bell three times a day during the year 1846. In 1847 the Diocese of Cleveland was formed, and Father Rappe was consecrated as its Bishop, at Cincinnati, October 10, 1847. Father De Goesbriand remained in charge of the Toledo Parish until succeeded by Father Phillip Foley, in February, 1848. The latter remained until October, 1854, being meantime assisted at different periods by Fathers J. Moran, S. C. Lanner, N. Pouchel and James Monahan. Father A. Campion succeeded Father Foley in 1854, and was succeeded by Father R. A. Sidley, May 30, 1856. Father O'Connor served as Assistant from February, 1855, till June 28, 1858, when Father John Quin came. In March, 1859, Father Boff succeeded as Priest, with Father Quin as Assistant, until November, 1860, being then succeeded by Father Thomas Halley, who remained until Father T. P. Thorpe came in 1861. Father Boff remained until October 11, 1872, at which time Father James O'Reilly took charge, and retained it until his death, in October, 1885. He was succeeded by Rev. P. F. Quigley, D. D., in 1886, who yet remains in charge of the Parish.

The pastorates most conspicuous in the history of St. Francis de Sales Church, are those of Fathers Rappe; Foley, Boff and O'Reilly, each of whom not only filled his charge to the satisfaction of the people and of the Bishop, but in high degree won the respect and confidence of the people of Toledo generally. Of the four named, Father O'Reilly was the only one who died while in charge of the Parish, and the demonstration on the part both of the parishioners and citizens generally which at-


596 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.

tended his burial, exceeded anything of the kind ever known in the City.



The Catholic population in Toledo, from the first, was composed chiefly of the Irish, German and French nationalities. The former for many years largely predominated. In the course of time, with the increase of population, the demands for Church accommodations became such as to require the establishment of new Parishes, and very naturally, these to greater or less extent, were arranged to suit the different leading nationalities of the Church. The first step in that direction consisted of the organization of St. Mary's Church, for Germans, in 1854. Reverend Charles Evrard was appointed as Pastor. The labors incident to such charge were greatly heightened by the fact that lie was a Frenchman, without knowledge of the German language. But such was his devotion and resources, that within a few months he was permitted to see laid the foundation of the large Church at the corner of Cherry and Michigan Streets, the rear portion (60x100 feet) of which was dedicated in October, 1856. Such was Father Evrard's spirit of devotion to his work, that lie was often seen among the laborers on the Church, himself handling and wheeling brick, sand and mortar, as best would forward the work. At the end of eight more years of toil and embarrassment, he saw the edifice completed. In September, 1867, lie was removed to Tiffin, where he remained until his death, in 1885. The next Pastor of St. Mary'' was Rev. C. Viere, who remained until October, 1869, when the Church passed under the immediate charge of the Jesuit Fathers, which relation has since been maintained. Rev. Father Spiecker, from Buffalo, was the next Pastor, who was succeeded by Rev. John B. Kansleiter, under whose administration the large School building, known as St. Mary's School, was projected, which was completed under Rev. Nicholas Greisch, the succeeding Pastor. Under the plan of this School, it was proposed that every child of the Parish should be educated, at whatever expense necessary to the more wealthy members of the Church. The present Pastor (December, 1887) is Rev. Aloysius Sigg; Rev. Bazilius Hackfely as Assistant and Chaplain of St. Vincent Hospital.

In connection with this Parish, the following named associations have been organized, to wit St. Joseph's School Association, in 1855 ; St. Michael's .Benevolent Association, in 1872: and Branch 194 Catholic Knights of America, in 1878.

Beside the above are the following : Sodalities of the Blessed Virgin-for Men, Women, Young Men and Young Ladies, all under supervision of the Jesuit Fathers ; and St. Vincent de Paul Society for Men, and St. Elizabeth's Society for Women. Each of these has its separate corps of officers.

ST. PATRICK'S CHURCH. From the beginning of Catholic work in Toledo until 1862, the English-speaking portion of that Church had no organization but St. Francis de Sales Parish. In April of that year, Rev. Edward Hannin came to the City, and under the auspices of Bishop Rappe, took steps for the institution of a new Parish, which was to consist of that portion of the City lying North of the Maumee River and West of Jefferson Street. So successful was the movement, that on the 6th of July following was laid the corner-stone of a house of worship at the Northwestern corner of Lafayette and Thirteenth Streets, for the use of the new Parish of St. Patrick. The building was so far completed in February, 1863, as to be temporarily occupied; and on the 17th of March, 1865, the ceremonies of consecration took place, when were present the following ecclesiastics of the Catholic Church, to wit

Most Reverend J. B. Purcell, Archbishop of Cincinnati; Right Reverend Armedeus Rappe, Bishop of Cleveland ; Right Reverend Dr. Luhrs, Bishop of Fort Wayne, Indiana; Very Reverend J Benoit, of Fort Wayne; Very Reverend J. Conlon, of Cleveland ; Reverend W. Carey, of Glendale, Ohio; Reverend C. Evrard, of Toledo; Reverend F. M. Boff, of Toledo ; Reverend John Quinn, of Cleveland; Reverend T. Helly, of Grafton; Reverend M. Healy, of Tiffin; and Rev. J. Gallagher, of Wooster.

The dedicatory sermon was by the Archbishop. The occasion closed with addresses to the Father Matthew Temperance Association of St. Patrick's Parish, by the Archbishop, Bishop Rappe and others, and a march through the principal Streets of the City.



Beside the house of worship, other buildings have been provided for the Parish, to wit: In 1864, St. Patrick's Academy, 60x75 feet and three stories high, with accommodations for 700 scholars ; and St. Patrick's Institute, 50x84 feet, four stories, with large Hall for public use, a Gymnasium, Library, stores and residences ; dedicated March 17, 1874.

The following Societies are connected with the Parish, all under the charge of Father Hannin, to wit: St. Patrick's Temperance Society, organized in March, 1S63; St. Patrick's Juvenile Temperance Society, organized in March, 1868; Married Ladies' Sodality, organized in December, 1862; Holy Angels' Sodality, May, 1863; Young Ladies' Sodality, October, 1872.

Father Hannin, in the 26th year of his Toledo work, continues in charge of St. Patrick's Parish.

ST. JOSEPH'S CHURCH.-In 1854 a congregation was formed under the direction of Rev. C. Evrard, Pastor of St. Mary's (German) Church, for the benefit of about 150 French and Canadian families then living in Toledo and within four or five miles of the City. For their use a small edifice was built on the grounds of the Ursuline Convent, corner of


PERMANENT RELIGIOUS WORK. - 597

Cherry and Erie Streets. The organization was named St. Joseph's Church. In 1862, the work had become such as to demand the full time of a Pastor, when Rev. James Rouchy relieved Father Evrard of such charge. In 1866 Rev. Charles Wardy succeeded as Pastor, Who continued as such until 1868, When Rev. Modestus Jacker took charge, serving for nearly nine years. Under his administration, in 1870, steps were taken for more adequate quarters for the growing congregation, in the edifice now occupied at the corner of Erie and Locust Streets. In April, 1878, Rev. Andrew Sauvadet became the Pastor. Under his charge the building Was completed, having been dedicated by Bishop Gilmour December 8, 1878. The tower contains a chime of nine bells. Owing to ill health, Father Sauvadet Was compelled to resign, When the present Pastor, Rev. Louis Braire, succeeded him. The Church has had many embarrassments to meet, but is now considered in a flourishing condition. Such of the original 150 families as yet survive, are now divided among three different congregationsSt. Joseph's, St. Louis, East Toledo. and St. Ignatius, at Big Ditch, Oregon ToWnship.

THE CHURCH OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION was organized in 1866, for the benefit of the Fifth Ward, the house of worship being located at the corner of Dix and Jervis Streets. From its organization until 1868, the Church Was in charge of Rev. Edward Hannin. Who also was Pastor of St. Patrick's. In 1868 Rev. John Quin became the Pastor of the new Church, and served as such until his death in May, 1878. His successor was Rev. Patrick O'Brien, who is still the Pastor. The Church Council for 1887 consists of Patrick Ford, Patrick Lalley, John W. Gorman and Wm. Hanlon.

ST. LOUIS CHURCH (French) was organized in 1871, when a brick house of Worship, 48x84, Was erected on Cherry Street near Sixth, East Toledo. The first Pastor was Rev. F. Gauthier, D. D., who served from September, 1872, until March, 1877, When he Was succeeded by Rev. .1. Rouchy, who remained until 1879, at which time Rev. John Theim became the Pastor, and served until succeeded by the present Pastor, Rev. J. B. Primeau, in September, 1884. Connected with the Church is a Parochial School, and a parsonage. About 130 families are connected With the Church.

THE CHURCH OF THE SACRED HEART (German speaking) was instituted in June, 1883, and Was dedicated in November of the same year. Rev. James Theim Was the first Priest, Who remained in charge until November, 1885, when he Was succeeded by Rev. Wm. A. Harks, Who continues in charge. The Parish numbers about 120 families. Connected With the Church is a Parochial School, having an average attendance of 90.

CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD was organized in 1873, the house of worship being located at the corner of Clark and Nevada Streets, East Toledo. The Pastor in 1887 was Rev. Timothy P. McCarthy.

ST. ANTHONY'S CHURCH (Polish) is located at the Northwest corner of Junction and Nebraska Avenues, the Pastor being Rev. F. M. Orzecaowski.

ST. HEDWIG's (Polish) CHURCH was established in 1875, North side of Dexter Street, East of Locust. The Pastor in 1887 Was Rev. S. J. Wieczorek.

ST. PETER'S CHURCH is located at Northwest corner of South St. Clair and Canal Streets. The Pastor in 1887 was Rev. Peter Danenhoffer.

In October, 1845, the " Young Ladies' Literary Institute and Boarding School of the Sisters of Notre Dame" (a branch of a similar School in Cincinnati), Was opened at Toledo. It Was under the auspices of the Catholic Church. While "the Catholic religion Was the only one professed by the Ladies of the Institute,'' there was no interference with the religions principles of the pupils, Who were not allowed to conform to the Catholic religion Without permission of their parents. The ordinary branches of an English education Were taught, together with French, plain and fancy needle work, drawing, painting, and music.

Each pupil must be provided With a knife, fork, spoon, goblet, four napkins, four towels, six changes, two pairs of sheets, two pillowcases, a mosquito bar, eight pairs of stockings, a sun-bonnet, a green veil, combs, comb and Work. box, brushes; " bedding When supplied by parents, to consist of a straw and a moss mattress of about 2x6 feet, two pillows, two double blankets and a quilt or counterpane. The School year consisted of one session from October 15th till the latter part of July. The terms to boarding pupils Were: Entrance, $0.00 ; Board and tuition, $100; half-boarders, $50; Physicians' fees, $5.00; Washing, $15.00; Mending (if done at the Institute), $2.00; Vacation, if spent at the Institute, $15.00; Total for the year, $193.00. Day pupils, $3.00 to $8.00. Extra charges-music, drawing, &c.$5.00 to $1.8.00

REVEREND PATRICK O'BRIEN Was born at Pill town, County Wexford, Ireland, February 20, 1834. Coming to the United States at the age of 13 years, he resided at Elyria, Lorain County, Ohio, from 1857 until 1865. At the latter date be entered Saint Mary's College, Cleveland, Ohio, where he remained until September, 1866, at Which time, With the other students of that institution, lie Was transferred from Cleveland to the new Diocesan College at Louisville, Stark County, Ohio, Where he remained for three years. In September, 1869, he was admitted to St. Mary's Theological Seminary, at Cleveland, where he completed his studies preparatory for the Priesthood, to


598 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.

which he was ordained July 21,1872, by Right Reverend Richard Gilmour, D. D., Bishop of Cleveland Diocese. In August following his ordination, he was appointed Assistant Priest at Saint Columba's Church, Youngstown, Mahoning County, Ohio. Here he served until September, 1873, when he was appointed Pastor of Saint Mary's and Saint Patrick's Churches, at Rockport, Cuyahoga County, remaining there until August, 1875. He then was appointed Pastor of the Church of the Good Shepherd, East Toledo. Here he remained for nearly three years, and was then transferred to the charge of the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Toledo, which position he now (1887) still holds. Father O'Brien has specially attached himself to the people of Toledo of all classes, by the active interest taken by him in the general welfare of the community, as connected with the promotion of sound morals and the maintenance of good order.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCHES.

As already stated, the first Church organized within the present limits of Toledo, was of Presbyterian connection, and subsequently became the First Congregational Church.

The oldest existing organization of Presbyterian connection, is the First Presbyterian Church. March 2, 1854, Maumee Presbytery (Old School) appointed Reverends I. M. Crabb and D. S. Anderson as a special committee for the purpose of effecting such organization: Subsequently, Rev. J. M. Baird was added to such committee. January 27, 1855, a meeting was held at the Bethel, on Vine Street, when a Church was organized, with 27 members-eight from the First Congregational, and one from Ames Chapel (M. E.), Toledo, nine from Pennsylvania, five from Ohio Churches, and one from New York. Mr. Baird spent some time with the new Church, leaving in the Fall of 1855, when operations were suspended and remained so until Rev. Edwin B. Raffensperger came to Toledo, and on the 26th of April, 1859, commenced his labors for the revival and promotion of the growth of the Church. In October following, a Board of Trustees were chosen, consisting of E. D. Potter, Sr., Robert Cummings, Samuel Brooks, Sewell Whittlesey and James W. Hamilton. Services were held in Stickney Hall, 242-244 Summit Street, until the Summer of 1860, when the Bethel (on Lynn Street) was leased and occupied until 1869. In 1865 the Society purchased the Northeast corner of Huron and Orange Streets, for the sum of $3,500. Three years later the corner-stone of a house of worship was laid. The same year Mr. Raffensperger withdrew from the pastorate, and was followed in 1869, by Rev. Henry M. MacCracken. In 1871, the construction of an edifice was commenced, which was completed in 1873, and dedicated February 1, 1874. Mr. MacCracken resigned in 1881, and was succeeded by Rev. J. A. P. McGaw, D. D., who still occupies that position.

In 1865, with the advice and encouragement of First Congregational Church, a movement took place for the more adequate supply of religious privileges to the Northeastern portion of Toledo, when Westminster Church was organized. The Presbyterian connection was chosen, and Maumee Presbytery, November 7, 1865, received the new Church into its communion, with the following named members

From First Congregational Church, ToledoCharles Cochran, David E. Merrill, James Lyman, Frances P. Lyman, Mary D. Lyman, Augusta M. P. Lyman, Hudson B. Hall, John R. Osborn, Elizabeth P. Osborn, Clark Waggoner, Sylvia B. Waggoner, Ralph H. Waggoner, Carrie R. Waggoner, Eliza Merrill, Mary P. Ewing, Ira E. Lee, Mary Lee, George W. Bliss, Orpha A. Bliss, Laura S. Green, Theo. J. Brown, Henry G. Sheldon, Lyman T. Thayer, Anna L. Thayer, David Smith, Sarah B. Smith, Gertrude B. Smith, James Tolman, Julia W. Backus, Catherine S. Pratt, -Helen S. Hall, William Corlett, Agnes Cuddeback, Sophia Merrill, Matthew Brown, Elizabeth P. Norris, Matthias W. Day, and Eliza Rouse.

From First Presbyterian Church, Sandusky-Marshall Burton and Sophia Burton.

From Second Presbyterian Church, Ft. Wayne, Ind.-Lucy Hubbell.

The Elders first chosen were John R. Osborn, Charles Cochran, David E. Merrill, George W. Bliss and Calvin Bullock. The first officers of the Society of Westminster Church, were : Trustees- Matthew Brown, Charles Pratt, David Smith, Wm. A. Ewing, Lyman T. Thayer and Hudson B. Hall. Treasurer-Nehemiah Waterman. Secretary-Ralph H. Waggoner.

The first prayer-meeting was held October 19, 1865; the first preaching service October 22, 1865, Rev. Henry M. Bacon, then of Attica, Indiana, occupying the pulpit; and the first communion service on the first Sabbath in January, 1866, in the Central Mission School-room, 316 Superior Street, between Oak and Adams. In September, 1865, the Trustees purchased the lot, Southeast corner of Superior and Locust Streets, for the use of the Church, paying therefor $5,000, and contracted for the erection of a Chapel, at a cost of $8,485, which was dedicated April 14, 1866. April 29, 1866, Rev. Mr. Bacon, who had served as stated supply from the first, was chosen as Pastor of the new Church, and installed. The Sabbath School of this Church was organized on the first Sabbath of 1866, at White's Hall, 217-221 Summit Street, where the Church worshipped until the completion of its Chapel. David Smith was the first Superintendent of the School. In 1870 a contract was made with Luther Whitney, for the erection of an edifice for the use of the Church, which was completed May 1, 1573, at a cost of $47,000; the entire expenditure for lot, Chapel, Church, taxes, etc., being $65,000. The entire amount raised for all purposes for


PERMANENT RELIGIOUS WORK - 599

the first ten years of the Church, was about $100,000, at which time the membership numbered 339. Mr. Bacon tendered his resignation as Pastor in October, 1880, which was accepted by the Church. The pulpit was temporarily supplied until November, 1881, when Rev. Edward Anderson became the Pastor, serving as such until September, 1883. In February, 1884, Rev. Frederick B. Du Val, D. D., from First Presbyterian Church, Wilmington, Delaware, accepted a call to the pastorate, which he still occupies. The officers of the Church and Society are as follows:

Elders-J. R. Osborn, C. C. Doolittle, T. C. Rowland, T. J. Brown, W. C. Chapman, S. R. Maclaren, H. C. Sprague, H. M. Pixley, E. Stanley Noble. Trustees-Charles Pratt, Win. B. Taylor, Milton Taylor, Wm. H. Bellman, F. C. Chapin, James Blass, E. W. Lenderson, J. C. Bonner.

THIRD PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH was organized June 26, 1870, with the following named members : Catharine Shively, George T. Boalch and wife, Miss Anna M. Nugent and Mrs. Eliza Roberts. Rev. Robert Edgar was the Pastor. In September William Pancoast, John M. Doty and H. C. Nicholas were elected Trustees of the Church. Soon thereafter a lot was rented at the corner of Broadway and Knower Street, on which was erected a building, which was dedicated January 1, 1871. The first Ruling Elders were J. M. Doty and Robert Geddes. The former was also chosen Superintendent of the Sabbath School, and under his management it was prosperous. In January, 1872, Mr. Edgar resigned as Pastor, when Rev. Josiah Brown gratuitously supplied the pulpit for a time. In 1873, Rev. J. E. Vance, of Columbus Grove, became the stated supply of the Church, and it was during his service that the present edifice, on Knower Street, near Broadway, was erected. In 1875, Rev. W. J. Trimble became the Pastor, serving for four years, during which time the Church increased in numbers from 25 to 125. In 1879 Rev. Joseph W. Torrence was elected as Pastor, and continued with the Church until 1885. From that time until June, 1886, the pulpit was vacant, when Rev. Benjamin F. Ormond, of Wooster, Ohio, accepted a call, and is yet the Pastor.

FIRST GERMAN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH was organized in 1871, its house of worship being located on West side of Canton Avenue, between Beacon and North Streets. Its only Pastor has been Rev. Martin Koehler, who yet serves in that capacity.

BAPTIST CHURCHES.

The first definite step toward the organization of a Baptist Church in Toledo, was taken in June, 1853, when a few members of that denomination assembled at the residence of Henry J. Hayes, on St. Clair Street, between Jefferson and Monroe, for the purpose of prayer and conference as to the interests of the Church in Toledo. Some weeks thereafter, Rev. Edward F. Platt, of Schroon, Essex County, New York, while on his way to Minnesota, stopped at Cleveland, where his attention was called to Toledo, with the request that he visit that City. He did so, and at once interested himself' in a movement for a Baptist Church. On the 6th July, at a meeting held at the residence of Dr. Win. C. Scott, the First Baptist Church was organized, upon the condition that the State Convention and the Home Missionary Society each grant $400 per year towards the support of such enterprise. Participating in that meeting, were Rev. E. F. Platt, Benj. Farley, Wm. Baker, J. E. Franklin, Ransom Wilkison, W. S. Grow, Dr. Lewis Pagin and Dr. W. C. Scott. October 31, 1853, it having been decided to go on with the Church, the following persons united for that purpose, to wit: E. F. Platt, Benj. Farley, Mrs. Almira Farley, Miss H. Shumway, Wm. Baker, Ransom Wilkison, Mrs. Margaret Pfanner, Mrs. S. Blodgett, S. G. Harvey, Dr. Win. C. Scott, Elizabeth Scott, Miss Mary West, Miss Clarissa Shaw, Mrs. Clarissa Flint, Mrs. Minerva Freeman, Henry J. Hayes, and M. E. Hayes-18 in number. Benj. Farley, Ransom Wilkison and H. J. Hayes were elected Deacons, and Wm. Baker, Clerk. March 15, 1854, W. C. Scott, H. J. Hayes, Wm. Baker, H. L. Hosmer and C. A. King were chosen Trustees. Rev. E. F. Platt was formally called to the pastorate, and three days later the Church was formally constituted by a Council of ministers and delegates from Baptist Churches of' other Cities. The first place of public worship was Union Hall, 403 Summit Street, where services were first held August 7, 1853, although occasional meetings had been previously held in the First Congregational Church. Early in 1854, steps were taken for the erection of a house of' worship, when the site of the proposed edifice, on Huron Street, near Cherry, was purchased for $1,000. The building was dedicated December 9, 1855, at a cost of $15,502.77, with an indebtedness of $6,191.44, which subsequently was liquidated. At the time, that was far the most elegant Church building in the City, which then had a population of about 9,000 only. Mr. Platt continued in active service as Pastor until 1865, when, owing to increasing throat affection, he was compelled to suspend the same. Rev. Charles D. Morris, then closing his theological course at Rochester, was engaged to supply the pulpit and aid in the missionary work. This arrangement continued until November 12, 1866, when Mr. Platt died, in the 45th year of his age. Mr. Morris then accepted a call to the pastorate, and continued therein until 1881, when, in consideration of impaired health of Mrs. Morris, he tendered his resignation, and accepted the call of a Baptist Church at


600 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.

Gloucester, Massachusetts. The pastorate was filled by the election of Rev. Byron A. Woods, who resigned in January, 1885, and was succeeded September 1st following by Rev. Alvah S. Hobart, of Cincinnati, who is yet the Pastor. This Church has been specially prominent in the prosecution of missionary work within the City. Six different fields have been occupied in that way.

I.-The North Mission School was organized in October, 1861, by H. L. Sargent, assisted by D. A. Waterman, H. L. Phelps, Peter White, W. E. Parmelee, Jr., Miss Elizabeth Pfanner, and Miss Eliza Spencer, with P. White as Superintendent. In October, 1865, the School was suspended, when Mr. O. R. Morse, assisted by a corps of' teachers, reorganized it, under the name of the "Sargent Baptist Mission," and it has been continued as such to this time. Its present Superintendent is J. W. Hepburn, and membership 185. The School " as named in honor of H. L. Sargent, its real founder. Its Superintendents have been O. R. Morse, E. H. Van Hoesen, Frank W. Anderson and W. H. Alexander.

II.-The Platt Mission was organized May 13, 1866, with four officers, four teachers and 27 scholars. During that Summer, its sessions were held in a shed, on the grounds of the County Agricultural Society, near the corner of Ashland Avenue and Prescott Street. The first Superintendent was L. Addison White, whose successors have been Geo. B. Hull, Frank Braisted, J. H. Wood, C. L. Rhoades, C. H. Rosa, Ira A. Richardson and C. T. Lewis. As an outgrowth of this Mission, Ashland Avenue Baptist Church was organized in the Fall of 1886. In 1887, Rev. Emery W. Hunt was installed as Pastor. At that time the membership numbered 103.

III.-A Union Sabbath School was organized in the Northern portion of East Toledo in 1853, with Oliver M. Brown as Superintendent. In 1861, Mr. Brown entered the Union Army, when Henry L. Phelps became the Superintendent, holding that position for seven years. In 1863, an Union Chapel was built in East Toledo, without special denominational connection. November 21, 1863, Rev. S. G. Dawson, from Lancaster, Ohio, commenced stated religious services in the Chapel, and a Sabbath School was organized December 6th, with Mr. Dawson as Superintendent, Geo. W. Wales as Assistant, and R. U. Chamberlin as Librarian. Mr. Dawson also preached in Brown's Hall. January 10, 1864, the East Toledo Baptist Church was organized, with 11 members, to wit: Rev. S. G. Dawson, Henry L. Phelps, Geo. W. Wales, Mrs. Caroline Wales, Mrs. Charles Jennison, Mrs. Anna M. Dawson, Mrs. Louisa Phelps, Mrs. Mary A. Wales, Miss Louisa Jennison, Amos W. Crane and Mrs. Gabriel Crane. Mr. Dawson was chosen Pastor. During the years 1864-5, a brick house of worship was built, costing $6,000. In 1873, a second building was erected, and named Dawson Chapel, at the corner of Oak and Fort Streets, costing $4,300. December 31, 1874, Mr. Dawson resigned, to serve as Superintendent of Missions under the State Baptist Convention, and died September 5, 1875. The successor of Mr. Dawson, as Pastor, was Rev. G. P. Osborn, who served to November, 1875. He was succeeded by Rev. Wm. Elgin, who on account of ill health, resigned in 1877, and was followed by Rev. J. B. Scharf. The present Pastor is Rev. L. D. Robinson. March 3, 1885, a Church organization was made at Dawson Chapel, and given the name of Memorial Baptist Church, in recognition of the part borne in the Mission work there by Rev. S. G. Dawson. The Pastor for 1887, is Rev. G. P. Osborne.

IV.-The Fifth Ward Baptist Mission was organized in October, 1868, by Rev. P. P. Farnham, assisted by 14 persons, mainly members of the First Baptist Church. At first a small room on St. Clair Street, near Logan, was used, which soon proving too small, other and larger quarters were secured. Mr. Farnham leaving in April, 1869, the School was continued by the First Church until July, 1871. Meantime a Chapel had been erected at the corner of Oliver and Knapp Streets. In the Summer of 1871, Rev. Wm. Sheridan took charge of the Mission, and June 9, 1872, the Oliver Street Baptist Church was organized, with Mr. Sheridan as Pastor, John D. Prideaux as Clerk, Jonas Normanton as Treasurer, and H. B. Granger and Jonas Normanton as Deacons. Mr. Sheridan continues as Pastor.

V.-On Sunday, November 3, 1878, the Oliver Street Baptist Church opened the Olive Branch Sunday School in Brown's Addition, which is yet in operation, in charge of Rev. John B. Seharff.

SHERIDAN CHAPEL was organized as a Mission by Oliver Street Baptist Church, December 20, 1885. It is located on the North side of Orchard, between Thayer and Stebbins Streets. Its Pastor is Rev. Wm. Sheridan, the Pastor of the mother Church, with Jonas Normanton as Superintendent,

The name of the, late H. L. Sargent is so intimately associated with the work of Christian Missions in Toledo, that brief recognition of such relation is proper here. He came to Toledo about 1857, as Chief Clerk of the General Superintendent of the Michigan Southern (now Lake Shore) Railroad, and held that position until January, 1864, when, having been appointed Chaplain of the Fourteenth Ohio Infantry, he was ordained at Toledo as a Minister of the Gospel. After the close of the War, be accepted the pastorate and assumed charge of a young Church at Huntington, Massachusetts, continuing therein until his death, which occurred at Springfield, Massachusetts, July 25, 1866. From his arrival at Toledo his leisure


PERMANENT RELIGIOUS WORK. - 601

hours were largely devoted to religious work, and chiefly among the poor, in which service he was exceptionally efficient. Several successful enterprises of that sort were indebted to his self-denying labors for their start and prosperity. The Sargent Mission on Erie Street was named in recognition of his devotion to that class of work. His Church relation was that of the Baptist denomination. No name in Toledo in connection with the work with which he was specially identified, is more prominent than is his.

LUTHERAN CHURCHES.

The oldest Church of this denomination in Toledo is Salem, its house of worship being located on North side Huron Street, between Elm and Chestnut. It was organized in 1845. The Pastor in 1887, was Rev. F. J. S. Schmeltz.

ST. PAUL'S, East side Erie, between Adams and Oak Streets, was organized in 1854. It has one of the most commodious houses of worship in the City. The Pastor in 1887 was Rev. J. J. Weiss.

ST. JOHN'S (German), East Toledo (formerly Oregon Township), was organized in 1862, by Rev. John Doerfler, and was incorporated in 1863 as the "Evangelical Lutheran Congregation of St. John, Oregon Township." In September, 1862, Rev. Charles Beckel became the Pastor, and continues as such. The first officers were F. Clansing, John Bitter and G. Burr. The present officers are-Carl Koch, Henry Salendorff and Henry Bitter. The Teacher is Christ. Lohmann. In 1876 a house of worship was erected, at a cost of $4,500.

ST. JOHN'S, corner Erie and Harrison Streets. Organized in 1864. Pastor in 1887, Rev. Christopher Prottengeier.

ST. PETER'S (German), corner Nebraska Avenue and Hawley Street. Organized in 1873. The first Pastor was Rev. C. Markscheffel, who served until April, 1884, when he was succeeded by Rev. L. W. Graeppe, the present Pastor. The Church in 1887 had a membership of 250.

EVANGELICAL TRINITY (German) was organized in 1874, its house of worship being located at Southwest corner of Vance and Ewing Streets. Its present Pastor is Rev. Herman W. Querl.

FIRST ENGLISH EVANGELICAL CHURCH, corner Oliver and Harrison Streets. Pastor in 1887, Rev. S. L. Harkey, D. D.

ST. LUCAS (German), corner of Walbridge Avenue and Franklin Street. Pastor in 1887, Rev. A. B. Weber.

ST. MARCUS REFORMED, Grasser Street, near Brand, East Toledo. Organized in 1874. Pastor in 1887, Rev. John Klag.

ST. MARK'S (German), corner Woodville and Baker Streets, East Toledo. Organized in 1884. Pastor, Rev. Charles Huebner.

CHURCHES FOR COLORED PEOPLE.

The first definite step taken in Toledo toward organization with reference to religious privileges for colored residents, consisted of a meeting of colored people held February 5, 1850, the immediate object being to raise funds for erecting a School-house and a place of worship, they then having no place for either purpose. They organized as the " Toledo Colored School Association," with James E. Franklin as Chairman, and A. Richmond as Secretary. On motion of B. A. Price, William Wilson stated the object of the meeting. It was resolved to build a frame house, 24 feet square. B. A. Price, A. Richmond and D. Nichols were appointed as Trustees ; J. E. Franklin Henry Rice and B. A. Price, as Collectors ; and Richard Mott was thanked for his liberality in furnishing a lot for the proposed School-house.

In 1862, a Sabbath School for colored scholars was organized in Toledo. It occupied the old frame building on Erie Street, between Monroe and Washington, which is further distinguished as the first Court-house of Lucas County. For Some months the School struggled along with 12 to 20 members, when a colored preacher from Kentucky took an interest in it, and soon gave to it increased success, with 100 members. Mr. - Lott was the Superintendent for the first; year, when be was succeeded by Mr. R. P. Clark, Teacher of the Colored Public School. Its success was largely due to the faithful efforts of Mr. Lott. There bad been for some years in existence, but in feeble condition, a Colored Church. The favorable influence of the Rebellion was soon felt by that race in Toledo, as elsewhere ; although the heavy weight of caste prejudice was Slow in its removal. The name of this organization was originally Warren Chapel, which was changed to First African M. E. Church. In 1864 steps were taken toward the erection of a house of worship, the corner-stone being laid August 1st, of that year. The building was finally completed, and stands adjoining the old Courthouse, on Eric Street. The Pastor in 1887 was Rev. T. W. Haigler, the membership numbering 123.

ZION'S M. E. CHURCH (Colored), on Beach Street, near Michigan, was organized in 1884. Its Pastor in 1887 was Rev. William Campbell, and its membership 45.

THE THIRD BAPTIST CHURCH, of Toledo (composed of Colored people), was organized in 1868. Its house of worship is located at the corner of Woodruff and Canton Avenues. Its Pastor in 1887 was Rev. J. H. Meadows.

OTHER CHURCHES.

THE UNITARIAN CHURCH.-Work in connection with this denomination has been in progress in Toledo more or less prominently since 1838. The first record found of that


602 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.

kind, is an announcement that "an exposition of the doctrines of Christianity, as they are held by the Unitarian denomination," would be delivered at the Unitarian Chapel, April 1st of that year. It would seen that such provision for services was not permanent, since in September, 1840, it was announced that there would be " Unitarian preaching at the Presbyterian Church (corner of Cherry and Superior Streets), to commence at the usual time of opening meeting." In January, 1862, J. B. Marvin was ordained as a Minister of the Unitarian Church, on which occasion Rev. Moncure D. Conway, of Cincinnati, Rev. Robert Collyer, of Chicago, and Rev S. S. Hunting, took part. Mr. Marvin became the Pastor of the Unitarian Church, then occupying a frame building on the present site of Masonic Hall (Northwest corner of Adams and Superior Streets), which had been built for a Campbellite Baptist Church. Services were maintained at that place for several years, and until the organization of the Independent Church, Rev. F. E. Abbott, Pastor, in 1871, when the building, now the property of Central Congregational Church, corner of Adams and Tenth Streets, was erected, and for a time was occupied by that Society.

THE CHURCH OF THE UNITED BRETHREN IN CHRIST was organized in 1868. The first Pastor was Rev. Edward Lorenz. Its house of worship is located at 324 Hamilton Street. In 1869 Rev. Benj. F. Fritz became the Pastor, and was succeeded by Rev. J. Ernst, who, after six months' service, was sent to Germany as a Missionary. Since then the Pastors have been as follows : C. Schneider, 187 3-76 ; J. Sick, 187679 ; J. P. Mosshammer, 1879-83 ; J. Schalla, 1883-86 ; Benj. F. Fritz, 1886-87. The Sunday School connected with the Church was organized in 1868.

CHRISTIAN CHURCH, organized in 1872. Its house of worship is on Eleventh Street, between Madison and Jefferson. The Pastor, in 1887, was Rev. J. E. McDonald, and its membership 265.

SALEM CHURCH, of the Evangelical Association, was organized in 1874, with Rev. G. Hasenpflag as Pastor, whose successors have been Revs. C. F. Vegele, Th. Suhr, C. Cords, G. Zeigler and Frederick Mueller, the latter now serving. The membership is about 90. The house of worship is at corner of Vance and Division Streets.

GERMAN EVANGELICAL REFORMED CHURCH; organized in 1853. House of worship Northwest corner of Scott Street and Canton Avenue. Pastor, Rev. Christopher Schiller.

B'NAI JACOB (Jewish), corner of John and Union Streets. Rev. Joseph Goldberg, Rabbi.

B'NAI ISRAEL (Jewish), worshipping in Clark's Hall, Cherry Street. Rev. Abram Goldberg, Rabbi.

THE FREE CHAPEL.--In 1884, for the purpose of providing accommodations for religious purposes, unrestricted by denominational views or associations, a building was erected at 205 Tenth Street, which was given the name of Free Chapel. The peculiarity of faith on which this movement is founded, consists in disbelief in human organizations as an agency for the promotion of Christ's Church on earth ; and in belief that individual believers should be held together only by the spiritual bonds of a common love and experience of saving faith. Hence, there is with such no society organization. Believers in this faith are scattered throughout this and other countries. The Toledo Chapel was built with means supplied by David T. Newton and others interested in the movement. The title is in the name of Lyman H. Johnson, the Pastor, and successors to be appointed by him. The work is largely promoted by a monthly publication, the Stumbling Stone, edited by Mr. Johnson. Worshippers at the Chapel comprise not only residents of Toledo, but also of the surrounding country. Services are held weekly, with semi-annual assemblies in March and November.

TOLEDO BETHEL WORK.

An organization, having for its specific object the dissemination of religious intelligence and other like work among the Seamen of the Lakes and Canals of the Western States, was established at Cleveland in 1830. In 1833, a small Chapel was erected in that City, at an expense of $1,000. In 1835, Rev. D. C. Blood labored for a few months as Chaplain, and left on account of ill health, being succeeded by Rev. V. D. Taylor, who continued until 1839, when Rev. Win. Day took charge, and afterwards became the General Agent of the Society. The organization was known as the "Western Seamen's Friend Society."

In 1847, Rev. R. H. Leonard was appointed Corresponding Secretary, and soon thereafter the Society was incorporated, and began to extend its operations. In 1853 it had Bethel Stations at Erie, Cleveland, Sandusky, Toledo, Detroit, Milwaukee, Chicago, Cincinnati, St. Louis, Louisville, Wheeling and Pittsburgh. It was then seeking to extend its operations to the Ohio and Upper Mississippi Rivers, and on about 1,000 miles of Canals.

Bethel work in Toledo seems to have been commenced in October, 1847, when Rev. Thos. Cooper, Chaplain of Seamen, arrived. The ladies of Toledo presented to him a Bethel Flag, as a signal for worship, the exercises taking place at First Congregational Church. The first quarters for Bethel work, were in the third story of Mott's Block, Southeast corner of Summit and Monroe Streets. The flag was run up in the morning and left until sunset, to designate the place. Services were resumed at the same place in April, 1848.

In 1852, steps were taken for securing permanent quarters for Bethel work, which re-


PERMANENT RELIGIOUS WORK. - 603

suited in the erection of a brick building on Vine Street, in rear of 272 and 274 Summit. The lot `vas donated by Charles Butler, of New York, and the funds by citizens of Toledo. The building was dedicated January 22, 1853. The Chaplain at that time was Rev. E. R. Jewett, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, now of Castalia, Eric County.

September 29, 1857, a meeting of citizens was held for the purpose of organizing an auxiliary to the Western Seamen's Friend Society, Rev. W. W. Williams being in the chair. S. G. Arnold, from a Committee previously appointed, reported a constitution, which `vas adopted, when Mr. Arnold, Andrew J. Field and Rev. Geo. W. Collier were appointed to report the names of suitable persons to act as officers of the Association, who presented the following, which report was adopted, to wit: President, Charles A. King ; Vice Presidents, City Pastors (W. W. Williams H. B. Walbridge, E. F. Platt, Joseph Ayres, G. W. Collier, Chas. Ritter) ; Secretary, S. H. Burr ; Treasurer, W. E. Parmelee, Sr.; Directors, H. S. Walbridge, Almon Hopkins, S. A. Raymond, T. H. Hoag, John Eaton, Jr.

In November, 1857, Rev. S. D. Shaffer was elected Superintendent of the Bethel Sunday School; Albert H. Niles, Secretary; and Miss Emily J. Raymond, Treasurer. The experience of the new Superintendent was not in all respects as pleasant as it might have been. At that time the low grounds in the central part of the City, were occupied chiefly by " squatters," or tenants at will, living in small huts, many of these having been built for the use of laborers in the construction of the Canal. This was specially true of the locality bounded by St. Clair, Orange, Huron and Oak Streets, on which in 1857 there was not a single structure, save those referred to. Among the squatters was an Irishman of dissolute habits, who often, by service on the chain-gang, paid penalty for infractions of the law. His wife applied to Mr. Shaffer for food and clothing for her neglected family, which was granted, and the children were invited to the Bethel Sunday School. On Sunday, March 7, 1858, they were not present, and Mr. Shaffer called at the shanty to see what had detained them. He was met by the father with raised axe, which came near taking his life. He warded off the blow with one hand, and knocked down his assailant with the other. The man lost the axe in falling, and soon seized a board and renewed the assault, which Mr. Shaffer warded off and again knocked the man down. The wife now joined her husband in the fight, while several rough neighbors did the same. Mr. Shaffer finally seized the man by the throat, and dragging him along with one hand, beat off assailants with the other. In this way he fought his way out, and finally released his prisoner, whom during the struggle, he had knocked down six or eight times. In the fight, he lost his hat, had his coat badly torn, his head bruised, his arm pounded, his watch broken, and his cane lost. Nothing but his courage and superior strength saved him from being wholly overcome by his assailants. For the purpose of making good Mr. Shaffer's loss in the melee, his friends met at the house of Captain Belden, taking with them contributions of money, provisions and clothing, amounting in value to $260. Mr. Shaffer's positive and unqualified opposition to vice, and especially to the sale and use of liquors, provoked extreme bitterness on the part of classes concerned-so much so, that processions of his Sabbath School in the Streets were liable to assault from vicious parties, unless protected by the presence of known citizens.

Rev. S. M. Beatty, long a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, commenced his labors as Chaplain of the Bethel, in February, 1862, and continued the same until his death in 1874. Few men have been more faithful than was he.



As the result of change in the channels of transportation, largely from water to rail, the specific work of the Bethel became much reduced in extent, and attention came to be divided between the Sailors and Railroad men. The Bethel building on Vine Street, about 1860, was taken by the First Presbyterian Church, for joint occupancy with the Bethel Society. The changed condition was recognized by the friends of the work, at whose suggestion a building was erected on the Lake Shore Railroad grounds, across the Bayou bridge, for the joint benefit of Seamen and Railroad Men, which was occupied for regular religious services for many years. At that place a Railroad Young Men's Christian Association was organized in May, 1878, with 90 members. Its officers were : President, Wm. H. Kirkley; Vice President, C. H. Buck; Treasurer, Frank J. Wilcoxson ; Corresponding Secretary, H. B. Sears ; Recording Secretary, W. T Walker.

YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION.

June 7, 1859, a meeting of members of different City Churches was held for the purpose of organizing a Young Men's Christian Union. Of this meeting Clark Waggoner was the Chairman, and James H. Campbell Secretary. Revs. George W. Collier, W. W. Williams, H. B. Walbridge, E. B. Raffensperger, Oliver Kennedy and E. F. Platt, were appointed to prepare a constitution and by-laws for such organization. The Union thus constituted was not of long duration.

Preliminary steps toward the organization of the present Toledo Young Men's Christian Association, were taken by a meeting of citizens at the First Congregational Church, July


604 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.

25, 1865. The first election of officers occur red at the same place August 29th, who were as follows: President-Henry G. Sheldon; Vice President-Thomas Vanstone; Secretary -Daniel A. Waterman ; Treasurer Milo Bashare; Managers-W. W. Griffith, C. B. Phillips, L. Tiedman, E. H. Van Hoosen, H. L. Phelps, G. W. Nort. An address was then adopted, setting forth the object of the Association as follows

This Union shall be a social organization of Christians, who, desiring each other's good, will welcome young men who may enter our City, direct them where they may find congenial society, introduce them to the Church, to the Sabbath School, and to the members of this Union, and surround them in every possible way with such influences as will make them feel that Christian brothers care for their welfare.

The arrangements of the Association were so far advanced by November 27, 1865, that rooms for its use were then opened on the second floor of Hartford Block, corner of Summit and Madison Streets, where were supplied tables, chairs, and an assortment of suitable reading matter. The exercises of the occasion consisted of singing, prayers, addresses by President Sheldon, Rev. C. W. Ketcham, St. Paul's M. E. Church ; Rev. E. B. Raffensperger, First Presbyterian Church ; Rev. Win. W. Williams, First Congregational; Rev. E. F. Platt, First Baptist, and Rev. S. G. Dawson, Second Baptist Church.

The Association has been maintained with creditable efficiency during the 22 years of its existence. In 1880, through the liberality of its friends, it was enabled to secure permanent quarters by the purchase of the building No. 477 Summit Street, which has furnished liberal accommodations, including Reading Rooms, Hall, Gymnasium and smaller rooms. The officers for 1887 are as follows :



President, H. C. Sprague ; Vice President, A. E. Rood ; Treasurer. J. J. Freeman ; Recording Secretary, A. O. Hill; General Secretary, Willard H. Smith. Directors-H. C. Sprague, A. E. Rood, J. J. Freeman, S. R. Maclaren, R. H. Whitney, H. E. Marvin, Thomas H. Walbridge, C. H. Whitaker, John B. Merrell, C. H. Buck, R. A. Bartley, M. H. Davis, H. E. King.

LUCAS COUNTY BIBLE SOCIETY.

In 1847, the Lucas County Bible Society was organized for the purpose of promoting the circulation of the Scriptures. The 10th anniversary of the Society was held November 29, 1857, when the following officers were chosen President, Almon Hopkins ; Vice President, Wm. Baker; Secretary, Rev. Wm. W. Williams; Treasurer, S. H. Keeler; Depositary, S. H. Burr; Auditor, C. A. King. Addresses were made by Rev. E. W. Smith, State Agent; Wm. Baker, John Eaton, Jr., and Rev. G. W. Collier.



The officers of the Society for 1887, were as follows: President, Marion Lawrance; Vice Presidents, Pastors of City Churches; Treasurer, J. W. Hiett ; Secretary, E. W. Lenderson ; Depositary, T. J. Brown.

UNITED STATES CHRISTIAN COMMISSION.

In December, 1864, a Branch of the United States Christian Commission, operating in the interest of the Soldiers of the Union Army, was organized in Toledo. At a preliminary meeting held on the 7th of that month, the following committee were appointed for arranging for such organization

Rev. Wm. W. Williams and W. W. Griffith, First Congregational Church ; Rev. E. H. Platt and H. J. Hayes, of First Baptist Church; Rev. C. W. Ketcham and Almon Hopkins, of St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church ; Rev. S. W. Alderman and C. T. Wales, of Ames Chapel ; Rev. H. B. Walbridge and D. B. Smith, of Trinity Protestant Episcopal Church ; Rev. E. B. Raffensperger and Thos. Vanstone, of First Presbyterian Church; Rev. P. F. Schneider and John C. Wuerfel, of German Methodist Church. Of this Committee D. B. Smith was the Chairman.

December 8th, the Commission was organized, with the following officers : President, Win. Baker; Vice President, Almon Hopkins ; Recording Secretary, Charles T. Wales; Corresponding Secretary, Dr. H. W. Pierson; Treasurer, Denison B. Smith.

In February, 1865, the ladies of the First Congregational Church, Toledo, formed a Society Auxiliary to the United States Christian Commission, with the following officers: President, Mrs. Mary Walbridge; Vice President, Mrs. J. Austin Scott ; Secretary, Mrs. J. S. Lyman; Treasurer, Miss Carrie Eaton.

Operations in this connection were suspended soon after the date of the foregoing organization, by the close of the War which had made such work necessary. The meantime the Toledo Societies were active in cooperation with the great work of the parent Commission.

ALLEN STREET MISSION.

In August, 1863, steps were taken for providing with religious instruction, the children and youth along and in the vicinity of Allen Street (now Canton Avenue), a locality then destitute of such advantages. At the time stated, a few children were gathered in the kitchen of Henry Williams on State Street. Soon the School became too numerous for its quarters, when it was removed to the Pottery of August Phillips, 244 Cherry Street. Subsequently more permanent accommodations were furnished by the erection of a Chapel on the West side of Canton Avenue, between North and Beach Streets, which was dedicated September 8, 1872, and is yet occupied by the School. Prominent among the active early friends of the work, were C. H. Buck, T. J. Brown, J. M. McKee and others. From the first it has been non-sectarian in character. November 20,


PERMANENT RELIGIOUS WORK. - 605

1870, Mr. D. N. Trowbridge became the Superintendent, as he continues to be. The attendance when Mr. Trowbridge assumed charge, was 30 to 40 ; the average for the past ten years has been 145. For many years past, Mr. A. C. Moore has been the Assistant Superintendent, Charles Reibel the Secretary and Treasurer, and Miss Anna Steincamp the Organist, with Miss Minnie Hall as Assistant.

ADAMS STREET MISSION.

For several years this has been among the prominent enterprises in the interest of the more neglected classes of the young people of the City. In January, 1871, religious services were held in the Theatre Comique, corner of Monroe and St. Clair Streets, an establishment of low order, kept by one Capt. Hamm, after which announcement was then made that on the following Sabbath a Sunday School would be opened at that place. At that time some 90 pupils were arranged in 12 classes. Soon thereafter, the Theatre being closed, other quarters became necessary, and in February, 1871, the School was located at 138 St. Clair Street, and was known as the St. Clair Street Mission. Here the movement took more definite, form, including, beside religious instruction, provision for the more pressing temporal needs of the pupils, for which purpose a Relief Society was organized by ladies connected with the work. In March, 1871, St. Clair Mission Division of Sons of Temperance (afterwards known as Crystal Fountain Division) was organized, and was instrumental in reclaiming many intemperate men. In May, 1872, the Mission purchased the building 153 Adams Street, when the School took the name of Adams Street Mission. At the time, the bar of a low saloon was still standing in the room. The Sunday School at this place was inaugurated February 24, 1872. Payment for the building ($350) was made in April, when it was transformed from an abode of vice and crime to a School of virtue and Christian instruction, which it has continued to be for 16 years. Very soon after the commencement of this Mission, Oxen. Patrick S. Slevin, then the Collector of Customs for the District, assumed general charge of the work, and upon resigning his official position, assumed the post and work of City Missionary, which lie has continued to this time. From the first Mr. J. Cooper Price has been and yet is Superintendent of the Mission School. To these two gentlemen, chiefly, is due the success of the enterprise. Beside these, were active in the early history of the School, L. M. Skidmore, R. P. Taft, A. A. Andrews and wife., John Irving, Madison Miller, Clarence Morris, J. R. Osborn, Chas. Douglass, C. W. Everett, C. L. Young and others. Prominent among the Managers and Teachers, have been Mrs. J. E. Morehouse, Geo. W. Ford and wife, L. H, Skidmore, and others. In 1886, this Mission received from Mr. Robert Hallaran, a prominent business man of this City, since deceased, a donation of $5,000 for use in providing more adequate accommodations for the work, with which the building, No. 143 Adams Street, was constructed.

SABBATH SCHOOL UNION.

The Toledo Sabbath School Union had a celebration September 3, 1869, in which 17 Schools took part, as follows :

First Congregational Church, Rev. W. W. Williams, Superintendent, 350 scholars; Second Congregational (East Side), Rev. R. Quaiff, 75; First Baptist, Wm. Baker, 100; Baptist (Fifth Ward) Mission, Frank W. Anderson, 80; Sargent Mission, O. R. Morse, 100 ; Platt Mission, Frank Braisted, 75; Bethel, J. Cooper Price. :350; First Presbyterian, Thomas Vanstone, 175; Allen Street Mission, J. M. McKee, 125; Westminster, David Smith, 150; St. Paul's (M. E.), A. P. Miller, 250; Lagrange (M. E.), W. 13. Bellman, 125; Broadway (M. E.), R. Hunter, 125; African (M. E.), Jas. Lyman, 35; Point Mission (First Congregational), C. H. Buck, 200; Union (East Side), Rev. S. G. Dawson, 100; Lutheran, John Klagy, 110.

Revs. Benj. Frankland and M. Caldwell of Cleveland delivered addresses.

HOME MISSION.

The Home Mission Sabbath School was organized April 15, 1883. It is wholly undenominational, and occupies Union Hall, 316 Erie Street. The officers for 1887 were: L. B. Lake, Superintendent; F. P. Smith, Assistant; C. A. Langdon, Ricka Wackle, and Fannie M. Eddy, Secretaries. Enrollment in 1887, 298.

DAVID SMITH was born at Kilconquhar, Scotland, in October, 1818. In 1832, when he was 14 years of age, the family left Scotland for America. After two narrow escapes from shipwreck, they reached Upper Canada and settled at Pickering. When 17 years of age (1835), David went to Buffalo, New York, where, with his brother, James L., he was employed in the engineer's service of the Buffalo and Niagara Railroad. In 1837, coming to Ohio, he was one of the party who surveyed the line of the proposed Toledo and Sandusky Railroad, which never was built. That engagement completed, Mr. Smith went to Tecumseh, Michigan, and aided in the location and construction of the Palmyra and Jacksonburg Railroad (now substantially the Jackson branch of the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Road). Locating at Tecumseh in 1839, he engaged in the newspaper business with his brother, James L., and published the Village Record until 1840, when they sold out. Engaging in the mercantile trade with Geo. W. Ketcham, David continued in the same there until 1850, when the goods were removed to Toledo. The following year, in connection


606 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY

with the late Hudson B. Hall, also from Tecumseh, Mr. Smith began the manufacture and sale of lumber, their mill for several years being located on the East Side, and subsequently removed to the West side of the River. In this business Mr. Smith continued until the time of his death. The operations of the establishment, from small beginnings, increased to large proportions, and were exceptionally prosperous. For 10 years previous to Mr. Smith's death, which occurred March 29, 1876, his eldest son, Wm. H. H. Smith, was associated with him in business. The exceptional success of the establishment was largely due to the strict and correct habits of business, sound ,judgment and known integrity, which marked its management, and to which the original proprietors both so liberally contributed. No firm in the City enjoyed such enviable standing in more eminent degree, than did the firm of H. B. Hall & Co., which never deceived a customer, nor knowingly permitted one to be deceived. The business of the establishment, now much enlarged, is conducted by Mr. Smith's two sons (William H. H. and Howard M.) Beginning at the age of 17, Mr. Smith's business life covered a period of over 40 years, and throughout was marked by a degree of energy and integrity seldom shown. But it was not in the department of business-honorable as that was-that he commanded in highest degree the regard of his fellow-men. It was rather in the domestic, the religious and the social relations which he so honorably bore, that his true character found its fullest development. These, far more than the lines of trade, afforded free exercise for his inborn love for men and his high reverence for his Creator, which from childhood so strongly controlled his life. As husband and father, neighbor and citizen, his keen sense of personal obligation to others, was ever shown in a sacrifice of self in the interest of others. The home circle always enlisted his fondest interest. Next to that, he most highly cherished his relations with Christian people. In all the manifold channels for activity in Christian life, he was habitually and zealously employed. For nearly 40 years a member of the Presbyterian Church, and most of that period an office bearer-as Elder, Trustee, Sabbath School Superintendent, or Chorister-he permitted no opportunity for usefulness to pass unimproved. As a member of Building Committees of the First Congregational and Westminster Churches of Toledo, his devotion of time and judgment was specially useful, and the success of those Societies was largely due to such effective service. In the contribution of material aid, he was no more restrained in his support of religious work, than in the bestowal of personal service. Nor was his active interest confined to Church work; but was manifested liberally in whatever ways promised good to his fellow-men of whatever class or creed. There was not a social, moral or civil interest of his fellows, that failed to enlist his favorable consideration and his active aid. As a member of the City Council and of the Board of Education, as a Trustee of the House of Refuge, and in other positions of public trust, his services were often sought and always appreciated. It has been truly said of him: "He was emphatically a friend of man-ever ready and cheerful in meeting the command to love his neighbor as himself. Thus, he left a name more precious to his family and friends, than earthly wealth. He lived and died a true Christian, and his memory will ever be fresh and grateful in the recollection of a large circle of friends." " Such a life-in all its substantial elements, is a success, and furnishes an example honorable to the deceased and useful to the living, present and future." Following the death of Mr. Smith, the Sunday School of Westminster (Presbyterian) Church-of which he was the first Superintendent and throughout an active member-adopted a tribute of affection and acknowledgment to his memory, in which it was stated : " We recognize in his sound instruction, loving watchfulness and judicious management, a prominent source of the blessings we now enjoy: and it is a grateful privilege to bear testimony to his untiring fidelity and to commend his high example. Especially would we impress upon all, the great value of the careful study of the Word of God, which, beginning with early childhood, in his native Scotland, was never relaxed, but attended him with increasing devotion to the last. To search the Scriptures, was with him a life-work, and was richly repaid in the well of precious truth ever springing up in his heart and flowing out to refresh and gladden all around him." In 1S39, Mr. Smith was married with Miss Sarah B. Mandeville, who, with four children-Wm. H. H. Smith, of Toledo; Mrs. Wm. A. Ewing, of Chicago, Ill.; Miss Florence and Howard M. Smith, of Toledo-survive him. Subsequently (March 7, 1886), Mrs. Smith was called to rejoin the one so long a partner of her younger and more mature life. Sympathizing with and sharing in the works of usefulness which so largely distinguished her husband's life, Mrs. Smith, like him, ever held a prominent place in the social and religious circles where her activities were highly appreciated. This was eminently so, in the different fields of Church and benevolent work, where she is specially missed.

DEMETRIUS NASH TROWBRIDGE. - Among those who have assisted in promoting the manufacturing interests of Toledo, the subject of this sketch deserves recognition as one of the earlier pioneers in developing this source of local prosperity. Mr. Trowbridge is a son


PERMANENT RELIGIOUS WORK. - 607

of Asahel and Betsey (Murray) Trowbridge, and was born at Pike, Wyoming county, N. Y., July 2, 1825. His father was of English nativity, and a lineal descendant of a family of that name which settled in Connecticut as early as 1650. His mother was of Scotch descent, her ancestors also being early settlers in New England. In 1836 Mr. Trowbridge's parents removed to Niagara County, New York, and settled on a farm. On account of the poor health of his father, Mr. Trowbridge remained on the farm assisting his parents until his 21st year. During this period, the laborious work devolving upon him prevented his securing more than the most limited School advantages. For two seasons following his 21st birthday, he successfully conducted a threshing machine, doing the threshing for the adjoining farmers. In the fall of 1848, in connection with his brother Lyman, he purchased an interest in a shingle mill at Lockport, New York, in which business he was engaged until 1852. At the latter date he began with the same brother the manufacture of staves at the same place, which was continued until 1863, when they came to Toledo and continued the same business in a factory where the Union Elevator now stands, in East Toledo. In 1864 another brother (Mortimer) became a partner, from which date the firm was known as Trowbridge Brothers. Another mill was built by them at Napoleon, in 1867. In 1874 the subject of this sketch bought out his brothers' interests in the Toledo mill and sold his interest in the Napoleon mill. Mr. Trowbridge then took his son, Frank E., as a partner, and from that time until 1880 the business was conducted tinder the firm name of D. N. Trowbridge & Sort. In 1878 the mill at the Union Elevator was abandoned, and a plant established at Le Moyne, on the Toledo & Columbus Railroad, 12 miles from Toledo. In 1880 the son formed a partnership with Joseph M. Spencer, the firm name becoming Trowbridge & Spencer, which is still engaged in stave manufacturing. Mr. Trowbridge continued the business at Le Moyne until 1885, when he removed to his present location at Dunbridge, on the Toledo, Columbus & Southern Railroad, 14 miles from Toledo, where he has established a Stave and Heading-Mill, Saw Mill and Hoop-Mill. In 1883 he built an additional mill at Luckey, on the Ohio Central Railroad, and in 1884 purchased a mill at Defiance. In the former his brother, M. A. Trowbridge, was partner for a short time, but at the present time his son-in-law, N. B. Eddy, is a partner in both concerns under the firm name of Trowbridge & Eddy. Mr. Trowbridge is at the present time one of the largest Stave manufacturers in this section, furnishing at his three mills employment to 150 men. The general business office is located on Summit Street. Mr. Trowbridge was married in 1849 to Dorothy Ann Moag, of Lockport, New York. Four children have been born to them, all of whom are living and have reached ages of maturity. In order of birth they are as follows: Helen Augusta, wife of N. B. Eddy; Frank E., Eleanor Elizabeth and Marietta. Politically, Mr. Trowbridge has always been guided by his conviction of right, and no man is stronger in his allegiance to his conviction of duty and the course his conscience approves. A measure or a principle he believes to be founded in the right would receive his support regardless of what other men might do. Moral courage has never been lacking in him to desert any party when he believed it in the wrong. He cast his first vote as a Democrat, but when the Free Soil party came into existence, he attached himself to that organization, a step which brought upon him the ridicule and almost personal persecution of his former party friends. Upon the formation of the Republican party he joined that organization and remained with it until 1872, when the question of the legal suppression of the liquor traffic became a prominent issue. This cause appealed to him as one of the objects most desired for the well-being of society. Accordingly lie joined the ranks of the Prohibition party, and from that day to this has been one of the most active members in this section of the country. He has ever been ready, at whatever sacrifice of time and money, to aid in promulgating and instilling in the minds of the people the aims and purpose of a cause lie firmly believes will yet be crowned with success. The firm position taken by Mr. Trowbridge on this question, in the early organization of' the Prohibition party, made hint at the time one of the very few advocates of the cause in this City. But the idea which was then ridiculed and denounced, lie since has the satisfaction to see develop into one of the most commanding questions before the people of' this country. While men may differ with Mr. Trowbridge on questions of expediency and methods of' carrying out desired reforms, still, it is not too much to say, that no roan who knows him ever questioned the honesty and sincerity of his motives in any position lie assumes, either of a political, social or moral nature. The rare quality of moral courage is the strongest element in his character, and this naturally enlists the confidence, respect and esteem of' all good men. In all that pertains to religious affairs, Mr. Trowbridge has always been a zealous worker. Ever since he came to Toledo he has been a member of the First Congregational Church, in which for over 20 years, he has been a prominent office-hearer. For the last 19 years he has been Superintendent of' Allen Street Mission, where his unremitting labors have materially assisted in the building up of that worthy institution. Every deserving work of charity in this City finds in him an earnest, liberal supporter, while on all questions affecting the


608 - HISTORY OP TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.

public prosperity, he ever evinces the spirit which should actuate a progressive citizen and well-wisher of the public good.

LAKESIDE CAMP-GROUND.

In the year 1871, it was proposed by a number of older residents of Ottawa County, who, in their younger days, had enjoyed annual Camp Meetings, that there be established a Camp-Ground somewhere in the Island and Peninsula portion of the County. Giving practical form to such proposition, these parties purchased a tract of land on the North Shore of the Peninsula, and nearly opposite Put-in Bay, which they, through Reverend Leroy H. Belt, then Presiding Elder of the Toledo District, tendered to the Central Ohio Annual Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, within whose bounds the property was located, upon the condition that the same should be adopted and maintained as the Camp-Ground of the Conference. The offer was accepted, and the location was given the name of "Lakeside." Trustees in Trust were elected (partly of Ministers and partly of Laymen), to hold the Grounds, for the purpose named. Both the owners and the Trustees soon found the undertaking to be more than they had contemplated ; but earnest steps at once were taken toward the execution of the plan. A Dock, a Hotel, Dining-Hall, and system of sewerage, watersupply, and lighting of the grounds were soon commenced. In 1872, several Toledo parties took stock in the Land Company. These included L. M. Skidmore, Chas. W. Bond, J. Vogle, C. A. Croninger, J. W. Hiett, and E. W. Lenderson. To the Church the Land Company deeded the auditorium, parks, sole police control, and power forever to prohibit the sale of lots for purposes adverse to the nature, scope and design of the enterprise ; at the same time binding the Company to furnish water, lighting, ice, sewerage and boarding and sleeping accommodations; while reserving to itself the right to hold or sell lots as surveyed. The Church was bound to hold meetings on these Grounds for no less than the five following years, and with intermissions of not to exceed two years thereafter.

After the first year it was deemed best to associate other Conferences with the one owning these rights. The Articles of Association under which the Church became corporate, were then so changed that such other Conferences might at any time participate in ownership and management. The North Ohio, the Central German, and the East Ohio Conferences all have since become thus associated, and under their united management and control, Sabbath School Encampments, Camp Meetings and Lecture Courses are there annually held. Upon the Grounds a commodious Dock, a fine Hotel, several Dining-Halls, a good Store, Ice-houses, Meat-shops, &c., have been erected by the Land Company, and two large auditoriums-one for the English and one for the Germans-have been erected. Over 350 Cottages have been put up by individual owners, so that Lakeside has become a "Village in the Woods." Many families have their permanent houses here. Hence, there are established a Post-Office, Church and School.

Water transportation was the only means for getting to and from Lakeside for several years; but as the certainty and pleasure of this means of travel depended upon the weather, a Railroad has been constructed to Marblehead and Lakeside from Danbury, where it forms a junction with the Lake Shore Railway. The stock of the Land Company is now principally owned by two men resident at Lakeside-Messrs. Samuel R. Gill and Barney Jacobs-who spend most of their time attending to the demands of this fast growing enterprise. People of all denominations have their Cottage-houses here, and upon the platform at Lakeside are annually heard speakers without regard to sect or political association; and in the annual programmes of entertainment, Religion, Education, Social Reform, all are cultivated and encouraged alike. To these Grounds annually flock thousands of people for recreation, instruction and pleasure during the heated season of the year, the Grounds being open from July to September. These Grounds were dedicated by the eloquent and talented Rev. Dr. Eddy, since which time they have been visited by about all the most noted speakers of the country.



The first President of Lakeside Association was Rev. Joseph Ayers, who served one year ; the second was Dr. F. S. Hoyt, who served two years; the third was Rev. E. Y. Warner, who served three years; the fourth was Rev. Leroy H. Belt, who served seven years; the fifth was Rev. C. Case, who served one year ; and the next, Rev. Manchester, who served one year. The present incumbent (1887) is Rev. John Mitchell. Of the Lakeside Land Company, E. C. Griswold is now the President; S. R. Gill the Secretary, and Barney Jacobs the Treasurer.

Rev. B. T. Vincent is Superintendent of the Sunday School Encampment. Here, under Dr. Vincent, as at Chautauqua under his brother, Dr. John H. Vincent, are all the modern Sunday School methods taught. The success of the Lakeside enterprise, in the religious, scientific and social advantages furnished by it, as well as in the financial aspect, is quite exceptional; with every prospect of further growth in the same direction for many years to come,


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