"We moved the church"
|
|
|
For many years, the people of the community where St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church is now located had to travel great distances to worship. The people of this community finally decided to build a log meeting house and school combined.
Joseph Walter gave the land, and the house was built in 1829; about 50 ft. east of the stone church at its original location along the Wertzville Road. The following year, 1830, the cemetery, known as the Walter Graveyard, was laid out by the schoolmaster, Paddy Laverty; and soon after, Henry Shumberger, an infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Simon Shumberger was buried. This was the beginning of The Silent City adjoining the old log meetinghouse which was known as The Walter Meeting House.
Records inform us that logs and rafters for same were given by Jacob Shaeffer, Jonas Rupp, Jacob Miller, Samuel Humes and John Single.
The building was in use until 1858 when the logs were sold to a man by the name of Staht who moved about one-half mile west of the church and used them in the construction of a dwelling house, which is now owned and occupied by Joseph Conrad.
During the year 1857, another half-acre of land was obtained from Joseph Walter, son of donor of the first tract, on payment of twelve and one-half dollars. On this tract, the present stone church was built; work beginning in 1857.
In 1858, the "stone church" was completed (a memorial is erected at that site midway down the cemetery near the Wertzville Road). The lovely mountain stone and other materials were secured nearby. Rev. Stover was pastor at that time.
The first Sunday School was organized during the pastorate of Rev. Groff in 1863-69.
Two years later an additional tract of timber land was purchased, and the following year major repairs were made to the walls of the church. The walls were studded, lathed, plastered, and calcimined to keep out the water.
In 1890 a group of concerned parishioners decided repairs and improvements were again needed. The repairs were made, and a 500-pound steel bell was purchased, and a belfry built to house it. The church was rededicated in 1893.
Three years later the church was chartered St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church.
The Wertzville Road known as the "Old State Road" was rebuilt in 1930 making it a more modern highway and making the church more accessible.
In 1933 the congregation again authorized improvements. The interior was repainted and touched up and the beautiful native stone sanctuary was built consisting of the alter, credence table, floor, ceiling, and walls. It was the only native stone sanctuary in Cumberland County. Today it is still a source of inspiration to many.
Membership increased and space was limited for the church to enlarge with the cemetery on three sides and the road on the other. So, in 1956, St. Paul's made history when the church was moved, intact, 675 feet west to the present site.
During the next two years, the Christian Education Unit was constructed, and renovations of the church were made, and the cornerstone was ceremoniously laid in 1958. Much time and effort were freely donated by members and the minister, Pastor Manges.
As architectural drawings had been previously made for a parsonage, the people volunteered once more and the lovely stone parsonage, adjacent to the church, was erected in 1962.
Three years later a rededication was held to commemorate improvements made to the Christian Education Wing.
People not only gave of their time and effort but of their money and in 1973 there was a Thanksgiving Mortgage Burning Service.
Conditions were relatively stable until the spring of 1977, when, on May 8, 1977 - Mother’s Day - a violent windstorm caused an electric wire to erupt from an outside light and started a fire. The vestibule and belfry were destroyed by fire; and much water damage was incurred to the sanctuary. Due to the quick action of neighbors and fire companies, the main structure of the church was saved.
After months of negotiating with the insurance company and having Congregational Meetings to decide the extent and nature of repairs; with Pastor Butts acting as mediator, renovations were begun in mid-December; on May 14, 1978 - Mother’s Day - the rededication service was held. Today we can see the culmination of the efforts of all those involved.
The St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church historical account of 1923 was written by Genifrede Walter [1876 - 1935]
The Lutheran Church had an early hold upon the people of the Cumberland Valley, its accessions coming from the large influx of German immigrants. For a time, meetinghouses were used co-jointly with the German Reformed, who shared with them in religious watch-care over the rapidly increasing German settlements.
The religious sentiment was strongly developed in these primitive inhabitants of the Cumberland Valley. Its settlers made early and adequate provision for the preaching of the word of God. Family instruction in the Divine truth was supplemented by the public proclamation of the gospel at such times and places- as the sparsely settled condition of the country warranted. The simplicity of that primitive worship secured a religious fervor not seen in those days of costly edifices and fashionable services. The sacrifices made by both minister and people guaranteed a worship largely free from hypocrisy.
To this devout form of worship, the log meeting house was thoroughly consecrated. Many of the worshipers came from countries where there was much formalism and moderation; but every family would have felt dishonored had they been found without the forms of public worship. And now, when these wanderers into the wilderness were far away from a place of worship, a sense of special desolation was felt by everyone. A large part of their social as well as religious life was gone. It was in the Sabbath assembly that the best enjoyments of the week might be hoped for. The deepest longings of their hearts were toward the weekly assembly and what they called "the house of God".
It would be interesting to have some account of the place where godly people- first met and sought the God of their fathers.
According to Wing's History -- the first Lutheran Church at the lower end of this county was built as early as 1765, one mile north of Camp Hill. It was called Hickory Wood Church; later, Poplar Church.
The Lutheran people of this community traveled on horseback and even walked to attend Divine service at that place.
Those of us who are fond of tradition have spent many hours listening to the stories told by our ancestors, many of which were word pictures of their attendance at the House of God.
Some of the Lutherans of this place, because of the lack of a church in their own neighborhood, affiliated themselves with the Silver Springs Presbyterian Church which was incorporated as a congregation in 1786; but these later returned to the Lutheran fold.
In 1798, a Reformed congregation built the Old Stone church known as Peach Church. In 1806, the Poplar Church congregation bought a half interest in this church. This brought a place of worship somewhat nearer to the people of this place. But even so, a place of public worship was out of reach to a great number of people — mothers, small children and the aged. The distance was still too great, and roads were practically impassible a great part of the year.
The people of this community finally decided to build a log meeting house and school combined.
Joseph Walter, great-grandfather of the writer, gave the land, and the house was built in 1829 about 50 ft. east of the present church. The following year, 1830, the cemetery, known as the Walter Graveyard, was laid out by the schoolmaster, Paddy Laverty, and soon after, Henry Shumberger, an infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Simon Shumberger was buried. This was the beginning of The Silent City adjoining the old log meetinghouse which was known as The Walter Meeting House.
Records inform us that logs and rafters for same were given by Jacob Shaeffer, Jonas Rupp, Jacob Miller, Samuel Humes and John Single.
The building was in use until 1858 when the logs were sold to a man by the name of Staht who moved about one-half mile west of the church and used them in the construction of a dwelling house, which is now owned and occupied by Joseph Conrad.
During the year 1857, another half-acre of land was obtained from Joseph Walter, son of donor of the first tract, on payment of twelve and one-half dollars. On this tract, the present church was built; work beginning in 1857.
John Zeamer, Henry Noss, Daniel Miller, Jacob Walters, Jacob Simmons, and Amos Spangler were members of the church council. The Rev. Staver was-minister and gave the first ten dollars for the building fund.
Stones for the building were gotten in what is known as the "Stony Batteries" at the foot of the Kittatinny Mountains south of Lambs Gap. The sand in Jacob Shaeffer's field.
The wall was built to the height of five feet during the year 1857 when the funds became exhausted. In 1858, the building was completed.
Benjamin Waggoner, Adam Wertz, and Samuel Karns were the stone masons and a man by the name of Albright did the carpenter work.
During the corner service, Mrs. Given carried her small son, James, by the stone and he dropped a quarter in the opening. This, with his name, is sealed in the stone.
All the nails and spikes that were used in the building were made by Jeremiah Bretz in his blacksmith shop.
The church was finished and dedicated on December 25, 1858. The money was collected by Emmanuel Holtz and Jacob Simmons who was treasurer of the council. The church was painted by George Horner.
On December 9, before dedication, the funeral of Joseph Walter, from whom the second tract of land was acquired, was held in the church. This funeral sermon was the first sermon preached in the church.
No Sunday School was held in the new building until the pastorate of Rev. Groff 1863 to 1869, when a Sunday School was organized by him with Jacob Simmons as the first Superintendent.
In the earlier years of the church, Sunday School was held in a schoolhouse situated east of the church about a mile; now the residence of John Single in 1871.
On September 19, 1869, Rev. Pritchard became pastor and remained so till October 1870, being succeeded by Rev. Dasher who remained till 1871.
On February 11, 1872, Rev. S. E. Herring preached his first sermon as pastor of the church. When he took charge, he found the church in need of repairs. Before dedication, the church was plastered against the stone wall. This was not a success as the water came through. The east wall was then weather boarded in hopes of keeping out the water. This, too, was a failure. In 1878, the walls were studded, lathed, plastered, and calcimined. The weatherboarding was then removed.
At the same time, carpet was purchased for the pulpit and front of the church. Matting was placed in the aisles. This was the first carpet placed in the church. After the work was completed, the church was rededicated in December 1872, the Rev. H. R. Flock preached the sermon. Rev. Herring remained with the congregation till February 6, 1874.
On July 5, 1874, Rev. Dutt preached his first sermon. His services closed on March 28, 1875. He was followed in 1875 by Rev. Irving, who remained but a brief time because of difficulties with the congregation.
For about a year, the church was without a regular pastor but in 1877, Rev. Tressler took charge and remained till 1880. During his pastorate, the church purchased its first organ. Later in 1880, Rev. McHenry became pastor and remained till 1881. While he was here, the congregation held its first Sunday School Convention. Rev. Felton was pastor from 1882 to 1883. During his pastorate, the church was repaired at a cost of $350.
On February 1, 1884, Rev. Lingle preached his first sermon as pastor and remained in that capacity till April 5, 1885. He received a salary of $100 per year.
On April 1, 1885, Rev. M. G. Earhart became pastor at a salary of $125 per year. He remained here till August 5, 1888. During the summer of 1887, an iron fence was built from the eastern side of the cemetery to the driveway just west of the church, the remainder being built in 1917.
The Rev. Earhart terminated his pastorate on August 5, 1888. On October 4, 1888, Rev. W. C. Seidel preached his first sermon as pastor and remained till March 30, 1890, at a salary of $125. On September 1, 1890, Rev. J. L. Nicholas became pastor.
In 1893, the church needed repairs again and the council agreed to repair it. Following are the minutes copied from an old church book: The following repairs were decided upon:
1. A 6X6 ft. tower in front of the church running up to the proper height above the comb of the roof, containing a belfry at the top and a vestibule below, the corner posts to be 6" by 6". The outside is to be finished with weatherboarding in block style to correspond with the stone front of the church. The entrance to have double doors and an arched transom. The vestibule to have two windows. Pulpit platform is to be extended from wall to wall. Remove side chimneys and erect a center chimney instead.
2. Roof the church with the best pine shingles. Place one new window on each side of the tower in place of the doors. Windows to be fitted with weights, and box the eight old window frames for weight. All windows are to be finished with sash for one pane, same to be of enameled glass; remove shutters and provide screens for protection.
3. The ceiling and walls are to be papered
4. The outside of the east wall is to be painted with cement.
5. The outside and inside of the church is to be painted with two coats of paint.
6. It is also decided to buy a steel bell weighing five-hundred pounds and placed in the belfry.
7. Two pews are to be added to the seating capacity at the rear of the church.
8. On motion it is decided to purchase three dozen chairs to be placed on the platform on either side of the pulpit, said chairs to be purchased at a price not exceeding five dollars per dozen.
9. The contract for repairs enumerated was given to John W. Hershman of Mechanicsburg, PA.
10. The work was completed, and the church was rededicated on October 22, 1893.
11. A few years later the organ now in use was purchased, money being collected by Adaline Walter Wertz and Mrs. William Erb.
12. Rev. Nicholas remained with the congregation till September 1, 1896.
13. During the year 1896, the church was chartered St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church.
This church having severed connections with the West Fairview charge they secured the services of Rev. Dasher preached his first sermon on June 1, 1897, and remained until 1898.
The next pastor. Rev. A. A. Kelley was a supply from Trindle Springs Church. His first sermon was preached June 1, 1898, and he remained with the church till September 1, 1899.
Rev. H. R. Fleck, a retired minister living in New Kingston, served the congregation as pastor from December 10, 1899, until October 31, 1900. His salary as well as Rev. Kelley’s was $150.
As this church was not included in a regular charge for several years, it was provided for by synodical arrangement. It was to be supplied by the pastor in charge of the church at Trindle Springs. The following five ministers were all from that place and served as follows:
1. Rev. B. R. M. Sheeder who came November 1, 1900, and remained until 1902; during his pastorate, the Elizabeth Walter property was purchased for the sum of $700 and joined to the church property on the west.
2. in 1902, Rev. E. E. Parsons became pastor and remained until 1908.
3. he was followed in 1909 by Rev. Gerhart, who remained until October 1910.
4. Rev. Thomas Shearer came to the church early in 1911 and remained until 1913.
5. in 1914, Rev. Games, the last one of the supplies from Trindle Springs took charge. He remained till 1916, when opposition became so strong on the part of his people that it was necessary for his pastorate duties to cease.
Rev. A. H. Wolf of the West Fairview charge now became pastor and remained so till September 2, 1917. The sheds were built during this pastorate. After Rev. Wolf had resigned from the West Fairview charge, the New Market Church became an independent charge and St. Paul's Church became a part of the West Fairview charge.
During the time that intervened between the departure of Rev. Wolf and the arrival of Rev. Charles Lantz, our present pastor, who was in December 1917, the church was taken care of by Dr. E. D. Weigle.
To Rev. Lantz, our faithful pastor, we are indebted for much of the work in the repair and remodeling of our church. He drew the design for the church, and it was through his efforts with the efficient help of the members that our church has been made so attractive and comfortable.
The work except for the painting and the building of the chimney, has been donated. Our members, both men and women have been faithful. While the men dug out the cellar, hauled stones, did carpenter work, and put on the ceiling, the women removed the old paper from the walls and cleaned house. Some carpenter work was done by John Smith and plastering by Thomas Wertz without remuneration.
Our Sunday School contributed $665 toward the building fund. This includes $245 contributed by the Senior Bible Class.
At the present time the council is composed of the following men: Joseph D. Waggoner, President; John Wevodau, Secretary; S. G. Walter, Treasurer; Warren Duncan, Merle Kemberling, Jacob W. Walter, and William A. Adams.
Our church membership is sixty-five. As far as can be found from the records our membership has been around the sixty mark for many years.
Late in 1922, the repair work spoken of was begun, and the church was remodeled to the following extent: the west windows have been closed and an altar window put in place; arches placed in the front of the room and the platform raised.
New pulpit furniture was purchased. This was built from a special pattern designed by Rev. Lantz. The vestments were embroidered by Mrs. George Martin.
The old stoves have been removed and a modern heating plant installed. New lamps have been provided, the walls have been frescoed and a steel ceiling put on.
The old seats which were durable but extremely uncomfortable were taken up and the lumber which was of fine quality used in the arches and platform. Much more comfortable ones have been substituted. A new carpet has also been laid. The installation of the heating plant necessitated a new chimney. The year preceding these changes, a new roof was put on the building. This work excluding the roofing cost approximately $2350.
During the summer of 1920, it was found that the supports of the tower as well as the steps were in a dangerous condition. The Senior Bible Class, with the consent of the council, had necessary repairs made to the tower and concrete steps and walk put down at the same time. The men of the class did the greater part of the work, hiring the remainder. The cost was $1750.
It seems to me; this sketch will not be complete without a word about our Sunday School. Its number is ninety-two. Few; indeed, but we pray it may be a tower of strength for good in the community. May our church and Sunday School stand, as it has always stood, for the good things of the community.
The officers of our Sunday School are John Wevodau, Superintendent; John C. Walters, Assistant Superintendent; Mrs. Joseph D. Waggoner, Secretary; Alice Messinger, Assistant Secretary; Joseph D. Waggoner, Treasurer; Warren Duncan, Assistant Treasurer; Mr. J. P. Swartz, Organist; Beatrice Wertz, Assistant Organist; John Wevodau, Jr., Librarian.
The facts related herein have been gathered from memory, the writer having interviewed some of the older members and friends of the church, as well as from church records. Many hours have been spent delving into the records penned by hands long since folded. And now as we, on this thirteenth day of May 1923, to join those whose voices will never more be heard within these walls, our work will be so well done that others will take up the work laid down by us and carry it on to the glory of God and the upbuilding of His Kingdom.
Genifrede Walter
NOTE:
The dedicatory sermon preached on May 13, 1923, was by Dr. Sanders of the Gettysburg Seminary. The afternoon sermon by Dr. Bauslin, Secretary of Board of Education and the evening by Rev. Wolf.
The history of St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church as read on May 13, 1923, at the rededication of the Church was not as complete as desired—hence the additional chapter.
ADDITIONAL CHAPTER
It is desired that an account of the reopening service be given; also, that certain historical facts omitted at that time be given.
The morning service which began at 10 o'clock a.m. was conducted by the pastor. Rev. Charles Lantz. The morning services from the United Lutheran Service Book were used in its entirety.
The choir sang as an anthem "Praise Ye the Lord", while the choir with the congregation sang hymns number 241 and 198 from the service book. The writer sang "0 Lord Most Merciful" as a solo, arranged from Concone's "Mass in F".
The sermon was preached by Rev. C. F. Sanders, D. D. of Pennsylvania College, Gettysburg.
The morning offering as well as the other offerings of the day was a free will offering. No personal solicitations were made.
After the morning service, a lunch prepared by the people of the church was served at the church to a larger number of friends who remained over for the other services. A very delightful social hour was spent.
The afternoon services began at 3 o'clock p.m. The vesper services conducted by the pastor and found on page 40 of the United Lutheran Service Book was used as an opening service. Hymns number 197, 199 and 243 were used. Miss Bernice Walters, Mrs. Edward Fetrow, John C. Walters and John Wevodau, Sr. sang a quartet: "Behold I Stand at The Door and Knock". Mrs. Lantz sang as a solo "Abide with Me".
The sermon was preached by Rev. Charles Sterling Bauslin, D. D., Secretary of the Lutheran Board of Education. At this service, the writer reads the historical sketch.
At 8 o'clock p.m. the congregation met in the closing service of the day.
The vesper service was again used, and the choir sang as an anthem "The Lord is Great". Hymns number 164, 144 and 467 were used.
The Rev. A. G. Wolf, a former pastor, but now located at Silver Run, Maryland, preached the evening sermon.
It was decided to dedicate the pulpit to the mothers and make it a Mothers' Memorial Pulpit. It seemed a fitting way to commemorate Mothers' Day 1923.
Historical Account of 1923 by Genifrede Walter
Joseph Walter gave the land, and the house was built in 1829; about 50 ft. east of the stone church at its original location along the Wertzville Road. The following year, 1830, the cemetery, known as the Walter Graveyard, was laid out by the schoolmaster, Paddy Laverty; and soon after, Henry Shumberger, an infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Simon Shumberger was buried. This was the beginning of The Silent City adjoining the old log meetinghouse which was known as The Walter Meeting House.
Records inform us that logs and rafters for same were given by Jacob Shaeffer, Jonas Rupp, Jacob Miller, Samuel Humes and John Single.
The building was in use until 1858 when the logs were sold to a man by the name of Staht who moved about one-half mile west of the church and used them in the construction of a dwelling house, which is now owned and occupied by Joseph Conrad.
During the year 1857, another half-acre of land was obtained from Joseph Walter, son of donor of the first tract, on payment of twelve and one-half dollars. On this tract, the present stone church was built; work beginning in 1857.
In 1858, the "stone church" was completed (a memorial is erected at that site midway down the cemetery near the Wertzville Road). The lovely mountain stone and other materials were secured nearby. Rev. Stover was pastor at that time.
The first Sunday School was organized during the pastorate of Rev. Groff in 1863-69.
Two years later an additional tract of timber land was purchased, and the following year major repairs were made to the walls of the church. The walls were studded, lathed, plastered, and calcimined to keep out the water.
In 1890 a group of concerned parishioners decided repairs and improvements were again needed. The repairs were made, and a 500-pound steel bell was purchased, and a belfry built to house it. The church was rededicated in 1893.
Three years later the church was chartered St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church.
The Wertzville Road known as the "Old State Road" was rebuilt in 1930 making it a more modern highway and making the church more accessible.
In 1933 the congregation again authorized improvements. The interior was repainted and touched up and the beautiful native stone sanctuary was built consisting of the alter, credence table, floor, ceiling, and walls. It was the only native stone sanctuary in Cumberland County. Today it is still a source of inspiration to many.
Membership increased and space was limited for the church to enlarge with the cemetery on three sides and the road on the other. So, in 1956, St. Paul's made history when the church was moved, intact, 675 feet west to the present site.
During the next two years, the Christian Education Unit was constructed, and renovations of the church were made, and the cornerstone was ceremoniously laid in 1958. Much time and effort were freely donated by members and the minister, Pastor Manges.
As architectural drawings had been previously made for a parsonage, the people volunteered once more and the lovely stone parsonage, adjacent to the church, was erected in 1962.
Three years later a rededication was held to commemorate improvements made to the Christian Education Wing.
People not only gave of their time and effort but of their money and in 1973 there was a Thanksgiving Mortgage Burning Service.
Conditions were relatively stable until the spring of 1977, when, on May 8, 1977 - Mother’s Day - a violent windstorm caused an electric wire to erupt from an outside light and started a fire. The vestibule and belfry were destroyed by fire; and much water damage was incurred to the sanctuary. Due to the quick action of neighbors and fire companies, the main structure of the church was saved.
After months of negotiating with the insurance company and having Congregational Meetings to decide the extent and nature of repairs; with Pastor Butts acting as mediator, renovations were begun in mid-December; on May 14, 1978 - Mother’s Day - the rededication service was held. Today we can see the culmination of the efforts of all those involved.
The St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church historical account of 1923 was written by Genifrede Walter [1876 - 1935]
The Lutheran Church had an early hold upon the people of the Cumberland Valley, its accessions coming from the large influx of German immigrants. For a time, meetinghouses were used co-jointly with the German Reformed, who shared with them in religious watch-care over the rapidly increasing German settlements.
The religious sentiment was strongly developed in these primitive inhabitants of the Cumberland Valley. Its settlers made early and adequate provision for the preaching of the word of God. Family instruction in the Divine truth was supplemented by the public proclamation of the gospel at such times and places- as the sparsely settled condition of the country warranted. The simplicity of that primitive worship secured a religious fervor not seen in those days of costly edifices and fashionable services. The sacrifices made by both minister and people guaranteed a worship largely free from hypocrisy.
To this devout form of worship, the log meeting house was thoroughly consecrated. Many of the worshipers came from countries where there was much formalism and moderation; but every family would have felt dishonored had they been found without the forms of public worship. And now, when these wanderers into the wilderness were far away from a place of worship, a sense of special desolation was felt by everyone. A large part of their social as well as religious life was gone. It was in the Sabbath assembly that the best enjoyments of the week might be hoped for. The deepest longings of their hearts were toward the weekly assembly and what they called "the house of God".
It would be interesting to have some account of the place where godly people- first met and sought the God of their fathers.
According to Wing's History -- the first Lutheran Church at the lower end of this county was built as early as 1765, one mile north of Camp Hill. It was called Hickory Wood Church; later, Poplar Church.
The Lutheran people of this community traveled on horseback and even walked to attend Divine service at that place.
Those of us who are fond of tradition have spent many hours listening to the stories told by our ancestors, many of which were word pictures of their attendance at the House of God.
Some of the Lutherans of this place, because of the lack of a church in their own neighborhood, affiliated themselves with the Silver Springs Presbyterian Church which was incorporated as a congregation in 1786; but these later returned to the Lutheran fold.
In 1798, a Reformed congregation built the Old Stone church known as Peach Church. In 1806, the Poplar Church congregation bought a half interest in this church. This brought a place of worship somewhat nearer to the people of this place. But even so, a place of public worship was out of reach to a great number of people — mothers, small children and the aged. The distance was still too great, and roads were practically impassible a great part of the year.
The people of this community finally decided to build a log meeting house and school combined.
Joseph Walter, great-grandfather of the writer, gave the land, and the house was built in 1829 about 50 ft. east of the present church. The following year, 1830, the cemetery, known as the Walter Graveyard, was laid out by the schoolmaster, Paddy Laverty, and soon after, Henry Shumberger, an infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Simon Shumberger was buried. This was the beginning of The Silent City adjoining the old log meetinghouse which was known as The Walter Meeting House.
Records inform us that logs and rafters for same were given by Jacob Shaeffer, Jonas Rupp, Jacob Miller, Samuel Humes and John Single.
The building was in use until 1858 when the logs were sold to a man by the name of Staht who moved about one-half mile west of the church and used them in the construction of a dwelling house, which is now owned and occupied by Joseph Conrad.
During the year 1857, another half-acre of land was obtained from Joseph Walter, son of donor of the first tract, on payment of twelve and one-half dollars. On this tract, the present church was built; work beginning in 1857.
John Zeamer, Henry Noss, Daniel Miller, Jacob Walters, Jacob Simmons, and Amos Spangler were members of the church council. The Rev. Staver was-minister and gave the first ten dollars for the building fund.
Stones for the building were gotten in what is known as the "Stony Batteries" at the foot of the Kittatinny Mountains south of Lambs Gap. The sand in Jacob Shaeffer's field.
The wall was built to the height of five feet during the year 1857 when the funds became exhausted. In 1858, the building was completed.
Benjamin Waggoner, Adam Wertz, and Samuel Karns were the stone masons and a man by the name of Albright did the carpenter work.
During the corner service, Mrs. Given carried her small son, James, by the stone and he dropped a quarter in the opening. This, with his name, is sealed in the stone.
All the nails and spikes that were used in the building were made by Jeremiah Bretz in his blacksmith shop.
The church was finished and dedicated on December 25, 1858. The money was collected by Emmanuel Holtz and Jacob Simmons who was treasurer of the council. The church was painted by George Horner.
On December 9, before dedication, the funeral of Joseph Walter, from whom the second tract of land was acquired, was held in the church. This funeral sermon was the first sermon preached in the church.
No Sunday School was held in the new building until the pastorate of Rev. Groff 1863 to 1869, when a Sunday School was organized by him with Jacob Simmons as the first Superintendent.
In the earlier years of the church, Sunday School was held in a schoolhouse situated east of the church about a mile; now the residence of John Single in 1871.
On September 19, 1869, Rev. Pritchard became pastor and remained so till October 1870, being succeeded by Rev. Dasher who remained till 1871.
On February 11, 1872, Rev. S. E. Herring preached his first sermon as pastor of the church. When he took charge, he found the church in need of repairs. Before dedication, the church was plastered against the stone wall. This was not a success as the water came through. The east wall was then weather boarded in hopes of keeping out the water. This, too, was a failure. In 1878, the walls were studded, lathed, plastered, and calcimined. The weatherboarding was then removed.
At the same time, carpet was purchased for the pulpit and front of the church. Matting was placed in the aisles. This was the first carpet placed in the church. After the work was completed, the church was rededicated in December 1872, the Rev. H. R. Flock preached the sermon. Rev. Herring remained with the congregation till February 6, 1874.
On July 5, 1874, Rev. Dutt preached his first sermon. His services closed on March 28, 1875. He was followed in 1875 by Rev. Irving, who remained but a brief time because of difficulties with the congregation.
For about a year, the church was without a regular pastor but in 1877, Rev. Tressler took charge and remained till 1880. During his pastorate, the church purchased its first organ. Later in 1880, Rev. McHenry became pastor and remained till 1881. While he was here, the congregation held its first Sunday School Convention. Rev. Felton was pastor from 1882 to 1883. During his pastorate, the church was repaired at a cost of $350.
On February 1, 1884, Rev. Lingle preached his first sermon as pastor and remained in that capacity till April 5, 1885. He received a salary of $100 per year.
On April 1, 1885, Rev. M. G. Earhart became pastor at a salary of $125 per year. He remained here till August 5, 1888. During the summer of 1887, an iron fence was built from the eastern side of the cemetery to the driveway just west of the church, the remainder being built in 1917.
The Rev. Earhart terminated his pastorate on August 5, 1888. On October 4, 1888, Rev. W. C. Seidel preached his first sermon as pastor and remained till March 30, 1890, at a salary of $125. On September 1, 1890, Rev. J. L. Nicholas became pastor.
In 1893, the church needed repairs again and the council agreed to repair it. Following are the minutes copied from an old church book: The following repairs were decided upon:
1. A 6X6 ft. tower in front of the church running up to the proper height above the comb of the roof, containing a belfry at the top and a vestibule below, the corner posts to be 6" by 6". The outside is to be finished with weatherboarding in block style to correspond with the stone front of the church. The entrance to have double doors and an arched transom. The vestibule to have two windows. Pulpit platform is to be extended from wall to wall. Remove side chimneys and erect a center chimney instead.
2. Roof the church with the best pine shingles. Place one new window on each side of the tower in place of the doors. Windows to be fitted with weights, and box the eight old window frames for weight. All windows are to be finished with sash for one pane, same to be of enameled glass; remove shutters and provide screens for protection.
3. The ceiling and walls are to be papered
4. The outside of the east wall is to be painted with cement.
5. The outside and inside of the church is to be painted with two coats of paint.
6. It is also decided to buy a steel bell weighing five-hundred pounds and placed in the belfry.
7. Two pews are to be added to the seating capacity at the rear of the church.
8. On motion it is decided to purchase three dozen chairs to be placed on the platform on either side of the pulpit, said chairs to be purchased at a price not exceeding five dollars per dozen.
9. The contract for repairs enumerated was given to John W. Hershman of Mechanicsburg, PA.
10. The work was completed, and the church was rededicated on October 22, 1893.
11. A few years later the organ now in use was purchased, money being collected by Adaline Walter Wertz and Mrs. William Erb.
12. Rev. Nicholas remained with the congregation till September 1, 1896.
13. During the year 1896, the church was chartered St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church.
This church having severed connections with the West Fairview charge they secured the services of Rev. Dasher preached his first sermon on June 1, 1897, and remained until 1898.
The next pastor. Rev. A. A. Kelley was a supply from Trindle Springs Church. His first sermon was preached June 1, 1898, and he remained with the church till September 1, 1899.
Rev. H. R. Fleck, a retired minister living in New Kingston, served the congregation as pastor from December 10, 1899, until October 31, 1900. His salary as well as Rev. Kelley’s was $150.
As this church was not included in a regular charge for several years, it was provided for by synodical arrangement. It was to be supplied by the pastor in charge of the church at Trindle Springs. The following five ministers were all from that place and served as follows:
1. Rev. B. R. M. Sheeder who came November 1, 1900, and remained until 1902; during his pastorate, the Elizabeth Walter property was purchased for the sum of $700 and joined to the church property on the west.
2. in 1902, Rev. E. E. Parsons became pastor and remained until 1908.
3. he was followed in 1909 by Rev. Gerhart, who remained until October 1910.
4. Rev. Thomas Shearer came to the church early in 1911 and remained until 1913.
5. in 1914, Rev. Games, the last one of the supplies from Trindle Springs took charge. He remained till 1916, when opposition became so strong on the part of his people that it was necessary for his pastorate duties to cease.
Rev. A. H. Wolf of the West Fairview charge now became pastor and remained so till September 2, 1917. The sheds were built during this pastorate. After Rev. Wolf had resigned from the West Fairview charge, the New Market Church became an independent charge and St. Paul's Church became a part of the West Fairview charge.
During the time that intervened between the departure of Rev. Wolf and the arrival of Rev. Charles Lantz, our present pastor, who was in December 1917, the church was taken care of by Dr. E. D. Weigle.
To Rev. Lantz, our faithful pastor, we are indebted for much of the work in the repair and remodeling of our church. He drew the design for the church, and it was through his efforts with the efficient help of the members that our church has been made so attractive and comfortable.
The work except for the painting and the building of the chimney, has been donated. Our members, both men and women have been faithful. While the men dug out the cellar, hauled stones, did carpenter work, and put on the ceiling, the women removed the old paper from the walls and cleaned house. Some carpenter work was done by John Smith and plastering by Thomas Wertz without remuneration.
Our Sunday School contributed $665 toward the building fund. This includes $245 contributed by the Senior Bible Class.
At the present time the council is composed of the following men: Joseph D. Waggoner, President; John Wevodau, Secretary; S. G. Walter, Treasurer; Warren Duncan, Merle Kemberling, Jacob W. Walter, and William A. Adams.
Our church membership is sixty-five. As far as can be found from the records our membership has been around the sixty mark for many years.
Late in 1922, the repair work spoken of was begun, and the church was remodeled to the following extent: the west windows have been closed and an altar window put in place; arches placed in the front of the room and the platform raised.
New pulpit furniture was purchased. This was built from a special pattern designed by Rev. Lantz. The vestments were embroidered by Mrs. George Martin.
The old stoves have been removed and a modern heating plant installed. New lamps have been provided, the walls have been frescoed and a steel ceiling put on.
The old seats which were durable but extremely uncomfortable were taken up and the lumber which was of fine quality used in the arches and platform. Much more comfortable ones have been substituted. A new carpet has also been laid. The installation of the heating plant necessitated a new chimney. The year preceding these changes, a new roof was put on the building. This work excluding the roofing cost approximately $2350.
During the summer of 1920, it was found that the supports of the tower as well as the steps were in a dangerous condition. The Senior Bible Class, with the consent of the council, had necessary repairs made to the tower and concrete steps and walk put down at the same time. The men of the class did the greater part of the work, hiring the remainder. The cost was $1750.
It seems to me; this sketch will not be complete without a word about our Sunday School. Its number is ninety-two. Few; indeed, but we pray it may be a tower of strength for good in the community. May our church and Sunday School stand, as it has always stood, for the good things of the community.
The officers of our Sunday School are John Wevodau, Superintendent; John C. Walters, Assistant Superintendent; Mrs. Joseph D. Waggoner, Secretary; Alice Messinger, Assistant Secretary; Joseph D. Waggoner, Treasurer; Warren Duncan, Assistant Treasurer; Mr. J. P. Swartz, Organist; Beatrice Wertz, Assistant Organist; John Wevodau, Jr., Librarian.
The facts related herein have been gathered from memory, the writer having interviewed some of the older members and friends of the church, as well as from church records. Many hours have been spent delving into the records penned by hands long since folded. And now as we, on this thirteenth day of May 1923, to join those whose voices will never more be heard within these walls, our work will be so well done that others will take up the work laid down by us and carry it on to the glory of God and the upbuilding of His Kingdom.
Genifrede Walter
NOTE:
The dedicatory sermon preached on May 13, 1923, was by Dr. Sanders of the Gettysburg Seminary. The afternoon sermon by Dr. Bauslin, Secretary of Board of Education and the evening by Rev. Wolf.
The history of St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church as read on May 13, 1923, at the rededication of the Church was not as complete as desired—hence the additional chapter.
ADDITIONAL CHAPTER
It is desired that an account of the reopening service be given; also, that certain historical facts omitted at that time be given.
The morning service which began at 10 o'clock a.m. was conducted by the pastor. Rev. Charles Lantz. The morning services from the United Lutheran Service Book were used in its entirety.
The choir sang as an anthem "Praise Ye the Lord", while the choir with the congregation sang hymns number 241 and 198 from the service book. The writer sang "0 Lord Most Merciful" as a solo, arranged from Concone's "Mass in F".
The sermon was preached by Rev. C. F. Sanders, D. D. of Pennsylvania College, Gettysburg.
The morning offering as well as the other offerings of the day was a free will offering. No personal solicitations were made.
After the morning service, a lunch prepared by the people of the church was served at the church to a larger number of friends who remained over for the other services. A very delightful social hour was spent.
The afternoon services began at 3 o'clock p.m. The vesper services conducted by the pastor and found on page 40 of the United Lutheran Service Book was used as an opening service. Hymns number 197, 199 and 243 were used. Miss Bernice Walters, Mrs. Edward Fetrow, John C. Walters and John Wevodau, Sr. sang a quartet: "Behold I Stand at The Door and Knock". Mrs. Lantz sang as a solo "Abide with Me".
The sermon was preached by Rev. Charles Sterling Bauslin, D. D., Secretary of the Lutheran Board of Education. At this service, the writer reads the historical sketch.
At 8 o'clock p.m. the congregation met in the closing service of the day.
The vesper service was again used, and the choir sang as an anthem "The Lord is Great". Hymns number 164, 144 and 467 were used.
The Rev. A. G. Wolf, a former pastor, but now located at Silver Run, Maryland, preached the evening sermon.
It was decided to dedicate the pulpit to the mothers and make it a Mothers' Memorial Pulpit. It seemed a fitting way to commemorate Mothers' Day 1923.
Historical Account of 1923 by Genifrede Walter
| the_walter_family3.pdf |
Memorial Building History
| memorial_buidling.pdf |