1IBR.AHY OF THE U N IVLRSITY Of ILLI NOIS D9IJL ^WBSSsr" Comply im?nii o-lj JAnluerdihj f^lace Ch rut tan Chitrch £ox 597 Station Jl i^kampaiyn, Jrilu UtloU Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2012 with funding from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign http://www.archive.org/details/lestweforgethistOOdung // est Hi T)enie ^.Vunqan rr ft 71 diistory of University Place Christian Church Chamfaian — Urbana , Illinois I 1883 - 1957 Preface A church is known and understood and loved from as many points of view as there are members and nieghbors. It is with feelings of humility and inadequacy that this history is presented. Events and names which you feel are important may have to be omitted. You are urged to remember hat a church as large and influential as University Place Christian Church is the composite of the work of numberless persons and the out- come of innumerable events which cannot be known or woven together satis- factorily in one book by an inexperienced historian. - JOervue £.!hnqan, Historian September 7, 1956 liVv&. JD-ervve C . flu/rug-curi (Qo/n/ua/Vy 30, 1611 - 5-u^ 13, IQ50) PaUo^ 5^ i, iqo3 - a^ i, mm CONTENTS Chapter Subject Page Foreword 1 A Vision ........................ 1 2 Founding The Church „ 3 3 Building The White Street Church .7 4 The Ministry of S.S.Jones ......... 10 5 Samuel Sylvester Jones . 13 6 Four Pastors in Eight Years 15 White Street Christian Church Becomes the Christian Church University Place 17 8 The Coming of Stephen E.Fisher ...... 20 9 The Brooks Brothers Meetings ............ .23 10 The Enlarged Church 27 11 A Cooperative Church 32 12 Helping Establish Webber Street Church of Christ ... 33 13 The Church Office 34 14 Work of the Women 36 15 Women' s Missionary Activities .... 39 16 The Deaconesses , ... .41 17 The Early Sunday School and Other Religious Education Activities . 43 18 Illinois Disciples Foundation 48 19 Bethany Circle and Other Organizations Sponsored by the Foundation. ....... 55 20 Community Young people and Youth . . . 58 21 Fisher Quarter Centennial Celebration 60 22 Stephen E.Fisher 63 23 Conditions Just Previous to a Great Crisis With Some Class Histories 66 24 The Disastrous Fire .............. . . . 71 25 Preparations For Rebuilding ....<> . » < 74 26 Myrtle Stoner Fisher . . . , . . . . , c , , , , , 77 27 Rebuilding Begins . . ............... 80 28 The Laying of the Cornerstone . . .82 29 Construction Continues . .85 30 The Church Continues To Grow Spiritually ....... 90 31 The Dedication 91 32 Other Dedication Activities . ...... 94 33 The Adjustment and Outreach of the Sunday School ... .97 3 4 Music and Drama ................... 99 35 The Church Recognizes the 35th Anniversary of Dr. Fisher "s Ministry . J02 36 More Evangelistic Meetings ....... 103 Chapter Subject Page 37 The Men's Work ................. .104 38 Reverend Fisher Re -Married ....... 107 39 Church Debt Reduction . . ... 108 40 Dr. and Mrs. Fisher Retired July 1 1948 110 41 A New Pastor Is Selected . , . . , , .. 112 42 The Passing of Stephen E Fisher ......... 114 43 The Long Struggle To Get A Foundation Building . 115 44 Growth of the Church ............... 120 45 The Ministry of William Jackson Jarman ...... 122 Appendix 124 Chapter 1. A Vision University Place Christian Church of Champ aign-Urbana, Illinois, with its adjoining Illinois Disciples' Foundation faces Wright Street between Springfield -Avenue and Stoughton Street. The church has a resident mem- bership of more than thirteen hundred and the Foundation serves several hundred university students each year. The church is one of the most act- ive and influential churches in the Twin-City community of about sixty thousand people, and students who were once active in Foundation work have become church leaders throughout the United States and the world. This church and its related work is an outgrowth of a visions held by Reverend Andrew Nathaniel Page, one of the pioneer preachers of the Dis- ciples of Christ. In the spring of 1883 a church organization of fourteen charter members was formed in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Page. This book relates the story of the founding and the growth of this church as it has expanded its services through the years. It attempts to give a glimpse of the struggles, the courageous efforts and the triumphs of a body of steadfast earnest people working together under the shadow of a great University. Mr. Page, an elderly minister of the Christian Church moved his family to Champaign in 1874 so that his six remaining children might acquire a university education. He bought two rooming houses in the 300 block on South Wright Street from the Illinois Industrial University. One house was a rooming house for boys and one for girls. A dining room was built connecting the two and the place was named "Students' Home." These buildings which Mr. Page purchased were located just across Wright Street from the campus of Illinois Industrial University which had been opened in March of 1868. In 1885 the name was changed to Uni- versity of Illinois. Directly across Wright Street to the east of Stu- dents' Home stood Main Hall, a large five story building which provided class rooms, dormitories, chapel and club rooms. The only other student rooming house stood on the southeast corner of Wright Street and Spring- field Avenue. Since a family by the name of White operated it, the place was called White Hall. The University Drill Hall was located on Spring- field Avenue south of jtyain Hall. And the then new University Hall stood just south of Green Street on the approximate site chosen years later for the Illini Union Building. These were the university buildings when Mr. Page moved to Champ aign-Urbana. The campus sprawled on the west edge of Urbana and Mr. Page lived on the east side of Champaign. South Wright Street is the dividing line be- tween the two cities. There were great open spaces with pastures and grain fields between this campus area and each of the two towns which were located about three miles apart. The campus was fenced to keep out grazing cows. With only a mule-drawn street car for transportation, it seemed a long journey to either Champaign or Urbana. There was no church near the campus. Students had to go to one or the other town to find a church. This fact was of great concern to Mr. Page and he determined to do something about it. At this time there was no Christian Church in Champaign Urbana. It seems that there had been a small organization some years earlier but it had ceased to be. Immediately Mr. Page set about to establish a Christian Church. He felt that the students of a growing University should have opportunity to know what he called. "Our Plea". Only a few Christian Church members could be found in the community and some of these were not enthusiastic about forming an organization. But Mr. Page never relaxed in his pur- pose. In a short time under his leadership , Sunday School and Communion services were being held on Sunday afternoons in the dining room of the Students' Home. Chapter 2 Founding The Church Mr. Page appealed to the Illinois Christian Missionary Society for help in establishing a church. It is stated in a report made to the State Convention of the Christian Churches in Springfield, Illinois in October, 1883 that N.S.Haynes, State Evangelist, came to Champaign in the Spring of 1883 and held a seven-weeks' meeting in a hall near the Illinois Central tracks in Champaign. During this time he was assisted by E.L. Frazier . From the files of CHAMPAIGN GOUNTY GAZETTE in the University of Illi- nois Library, the following items concerning Mr.Haynes and his work have been noted: January 31, 1883 - Elder N.S.Haynes, State Evangelist of the Christian churches in Illinois, will preach to-night and during the remainder of the week at Temperance Hall. (Located near the site of the present Ill- inois Central Railway Station.) February IU, 1883 ~ Elder Haynes of the Christian Church who has been conducting meetings at Temperance Hall, went to Bloomington on Wednesday to confer with the State Board of Missions relative to establishing a church in this city. March 21,1883 - Elder N.S.Haynes will preach at Temperance Hall next Sunday at 10:30 A.M. and 7:30 P.M. May 2, 1883 - Elder Frazier was greeted by a large audience at Tem- perance Hall Sunday P.M. and his lecture was well spoken of by those who heard it. May 9,1883 - N.S.Haynes, State Evangelist of the Christian Church will preach in Temperance Hall next Sunday A.M. and evening. Everyone is in- vited and all members of the Christian Church are urged to attend. No item could be found in the CHAMPAIOS COUNTY GAZETTE or other news- papers concerning the organization of a church. Mr.Haynes himself wrote in 1913 that the church was organized in a hall near the Illinois Central tracks. But more reliable information points to the dining room of the Students' Home as the place of organi- zation. A paper in the 1902 cornerstone box of the building which the church occupied for 29 years states in the handwriting of a charter member, George R.Shawhan, that "The church was organized in Bro. A.N.Page' s house in the spring of 1883." Mrs. Hannah Marie Page Currey. of Olympia, Washington, a daughter of Mr. Page, also stated that the organization was effected in the dining room of the Students' Home. There is no doubt that the organization was formed during the period of the Haynes meetings in the Spring of 1883. The exact date is not known, but v/as probably in the middle of May. The statement referred to above which was written by George R.Shawhan on a sheet of paper bearing the letter head of the County Superintendent of schools of Champaign County and dated October 26,1902 is gix'en in full as follows: "The following is the list of Charter Members or organizers of the Church of Christ or the Christian Church at Champaign, Illinois: 'The Church was organized in Bro. A.N.Page' s house in the Spring of 1883. 1. Bro. A.N.Page 2. Sister A.N.Page 3. Sister Belle Page, his daughter 4. Bro. James McMillen 5. Sister Josephine McMillen. his wife * 6. George R. Shawhen 7. Mrs. George R. Shawhen } his wife 8. James Funkhouser 9. Mr s.James Funkhouser, his wife 10. Sister Mary Hiserodt 11. Sister Mary E.Kimball 12. Sister Sophie Thomas 13. Sister J.A.Pillars 14. Sister W.H.Marstella" *Missy Josephine .'.Ictiillen, a daughter , corrected this name to Kittie Belle McMi lien. Mr.Spawhan was an elder and Clerk of the Board at the time he wrote this statement for the 1902 cornerstone. Mrs.Currey wrote in a letter dated August 30,1933 that her brother Andrew Orville Page remembered N.S.Haynes being in a meeting with his father about this time but he could not remember the date. Mrs.Currey further explained: Father got him (N.S.Haynes) to come, look the situation over and get the state missionary society to help start something. After canvassing all known prospects, Mr.llaynes had the promise of twenty-five dollars from one woman. She was a society wo- man and not deeply interested. He pronounced the situation hopeless, and said that the state could do nothing. Mr.llaynes made an earnest reffort and many calls, and preached at least once at that time." Other difficulties arose as shown by a letter of Mr.Haynes written to J.Fred Jones dated July 18 1913: "After our first meeting I went to Champaign a number of times, always preaching on Sundays - staying several days and working from house to house. I was entertained - always I think when there - by A.N.Page. He was a thoroughly good man - intelligent in the scriptures and with no convictions to compromise. The work grew so that it was decided to buy a building site and erect a modest chapel. Bro.Page and myself canvassed the possible locations. He decided that lots near his boarding house should be secured. I decided a far more desirable place was a few blocks north of this place on a wide thoroughfare leading straight through Ur- bana and Champaign. (Evidently University Avenue) The lots were high in elevation and fronted south. Bro.Page was unyielding in his judgment and so was I. Hence I told him and the congregation that I could not give so much of my time to an enterprise that my best judgment could not ap- prove, and so I would discontinue my visits and they could work out their own problems." It was a practice by some newspapers in the late 1800' s to publish in their ad columns "cards" which bore messages to people the writer could not reach otherwise. It seems that Mr. Page used this method to express his feelings after he and Mr.Haynes failed to agree about the location of a building for the newly organized Christian Church. A "card" found in the August 1, 1883 issue of the CHAMPAIGN COUNTY GAZETTE was evidently written soon after Mr.Haynes withdrew from the work in Champaign. It follows: "A CARD RELIGIOUSLY - By A.N.Page. The papers of the city have an- nounced in the recent past the extending of a helping hand by mission- ary workers of the Church of Christ in Illinois to their few feeble and demoralized brethern of this city. The help came through the minis- $a&f of eflders N.S.Hayne^ ^ftoTE^N- Fra~zier "who have been unexpectedly withdrawn from the field leaving the work under God to ourselves. With out disparaging missionary work or ungrateful for proffered help the writer thinks, this being left to ourselves is not to be greatly deplored, inasmuch as God only helps those who help themselves." The "card" continues at length as follows: "Now this card is to make known to the public (as it is believed the general public are interested in knowing) that it is the purpose of dis- ciples here to perfect as speedily as they can their church relations, and to say to al 1 : of every name : who are seeking to be ''Nearer My God" that the days may come (In the near future it is hoped) when they all have no regrets that this effort has been made, and to say to those seek- ing to build a congregation, after the model of apostolic congregations that those congregations were built of persons redeemed from ''all ini- quity" and instructed to have "no fellowship" with untruthful works of darkness. We must not build with rotten timber, neither with rag-weed or stubble. For the present, Sunday School and church service will be held in the hall at Students' Home - Sunday School at 10 and church services at 11 a.m. -A.N.Page." In August 8 issue of the same newspaper this announcement appeal© "The Printer took the liberty of making some alterations in Mr. Page's article about the Christian Church in last week's GAZETTE. The word ''somewhat" was left out before ''Demoralized", and the word "All" was put in place of "will" before "have no regrets" and 'rag-weed" was insert ed in place of "hay wood" etc, The printer who se up the article ex presses contrition and is under conviction." So it seems that after a few weeks of aid from the Illinois mission ary workers the entire responsibility for the little church fell into the hands of Mr. Page. Andrew Nathaniel Page was a sturdy pioneer who had little formal edu cation but who realized its worth and was always striving to educate him- self through private study He was born of Quaker parents at Gilmanton New Hampshire January 7 1820 and at the age of fourteen moved to Illi- nois with his parents and five brothers and two sisters. They located on a farm in Woodford County ten miles east of Peoria. Mr. Page attended school in Washington for a short time and began teaching school at the age of eighteen. After his marriage in 1842 to Mary Ann Grove 3 a member of rhe Christian Church he began an intensive study of the Bible. He al so studied the teachings of Alexander Campbell and Barton W.Stone, and became enthusiastic about the simplicity and reasonableness of their re- ligious movement He became a member of the Christian Church then de cided to add preaching to his already double career of teaching and farming. He became a circuit-rider type of preacher and it seems was for a time State Evangelist of Christian Churches of Illinois. This office necessitated long horse-back journeys through ail kinds of weather. So it is not surprising that a man of his determination and fore sight stood firmly for a church site near the Illinois Industrial Uni- versity. The total enrollment of the University in 1883 was only 330 but he had a vision of the throngs of young people who might stand in need of a University church in the years ahead. f*\ KcyWvn fiLo-aA-e^i/ yV\AAA,nvci/& So Bcmd/u/Wn/t Mr.Bondiirant was an early prophet of vthe importance of student work, and originated the idea of the Foundation. Q&emo/nA-eA, GxmfakeM This engraving is believed to be made in about 1860 and is very rate, It was given the church by Mrs-LW : Williams who inherited it. Spring Banquet of the Qiristian Youth Fellowship May 19 8 1957, Sundsy School class of boys taught by M.J.Fluck in the '20 ; f'f #'# ♦ 9 *. # Some young adult classes about 19 20 Mrs George Dungan and Dt Dungan are on the extreme ~ighi of the second row in the picture below R E Hieronymas is the gent lemon in the middle of the second row The Sunday School cabinet and church staff in 1909 Lloyd Mo ey was the organist and choirmaster and Edna Cox the soprano soloist Later they were married and Dr.Morey became the comptroller of the University and then the President Right Andrew Nathaniel Page (January 7, 1820- December 1892) Organizer of the church and first pastor. 1883 - 1885 Left Mrs, Andrew Nathaniel Page. She was born Mary Ann Grove in 1820 and lived in Washington, Illinois when Mr Page met her. They were married in 1842. In the early years of marriage she spun the wool and wove the cloth for all the family clothing. She died in 1908 and is buried in Olympia Washington, e . v^v^-r -^^ ,■■ «/,*"'/ / / /- J /^ ■ - «*+' / ■ % t < ;/ ,> f • ■ ' , > ■ ' 4 « t iuil> 1! fe.s M «^ C^ / tY itw Above Two pages from the subscription book which shows a campaign to build a belfry on the White Street Church The orhginal is in the possession of Mrs, Grace Wagne a descendent of James Funkhouser a charter member. Right Mr BR Heffley with his family is shown in a {picture taken in i about 1887 in "oopeston a short time after serving as the second pastor of the church The original is in the possession of Mrs. HE Brownfield, his daughter, and still a member of this church, Q> \}pv$cty Jibmea'^ ^^o^y, abound IQiO, s 111 1*11 ** photngi apher TTi^s picture of James Funkhouser a charter member of the church also illustrates the funeral custom of his generation to have a photograph of the deceased display- ed with the flowers. This photograph was loaned to us by Mrs Grace Wagner Chapter 3 Building The White Street Church Mrs.Oirrey wrote in a letter dated June 11. 1933: "Father had been gathering funds long before 1883 in the country places where he preached, back where he lived before coming to Champaign and of course, among mem- bers of the little organization and among friends. Some of these last were Catholics who came for love of Father, Some who wer ° appealed to re- fused because 'there were already too many churches.' The little church itself gave sacrificial ly. When all was in hand that could be gathered there was enough to buy materia] for a small frame building." The congregation took legal steps to transact business in May of 1884, as shown by the following copy of an affidavit furnished by Robert Maxson, Champaign County Abstractor and at the time a member of University Place Christian Church. The short cuts in spelling used in those days adds in- terest to this document, (Copy) Affidavit of A.N.Page Affirmed May 29 -8 4 May 29 ; 84 M R 3 33 A.N.Page being duly affirmed accordg to law deposes and says that at a regular meeting of members of the Church of Christ or as sometimes called "The Christian Church" held at their regular place of worship in the C of Chp in sd Co. and state according to previous notice given to members of sd church and sd meeting was convened by Elder James McMillen. actg as Chairman, and the undersigned actg as Clerk of sd meeting. Sd meeting was held on the 4th day of May A. D. 1884 and among other matters, George R. Shawshan, James Funkhouser and Mary E.Hiserodt were duly e~ lected. Done by ord of sd Church." The site for this first Church building was donated by James Funk- houser , a charter member. According to Isaac Funkhouser of Champaign James Funkhouser, his grandfather was keeper of a student supply store on Wright Street. He owned a considerable tract of land bordering on the north side of White Street. A lot at 606 East White Street was given for the church grounds. All the work of building was done by the members supervised by Mr. Page. Mrs.Currey said that her father worked on the building from start to finish.. On account of the leadership and the immense amount of work he had done ; the members wanted to call the Church "Page Chapel" but Mr. Page refused this honor and insisted that the name be "Christian Church". The building was rectangular in shape with two corners of the room curtained off for dressing rooms to be used at the time of baptismal ser- vices. There were two old fashioned stoves, one on each side of the room. The first lights were coal oil lamps set in brackets on the walls. No definite date of the completion and dedication of this first build- ing has been recorded. Mr,A,C.Muns of Pesotum Illinois wrote in a letter dated November 26, 1933: "My opinion is thai the church was dedicated late in 1884. I was a member of White Street Church from early 1885 to late 1892 and cannot say much about the church history prior to that time but I heard much talk among the members about a great revival they had I think in January- 1885. It was conducted by an evangelist "Brother Castle" who came I think,, from Indiana somewhere." Mrs Currey said: "I wish I could tell you the exact time they moved in and how many members there were at that time. It was some time in 1884." She also mentions the meeting held by Brother Castle immediately after dedication. She said that her sister Belle had charge of the music. Mrs. Edna Skinner Armstrong, wife of the late Luther Armstrong a Champaign grocer for many years, said, 1 remember Bro. Castle. He visi- ted in our home. My mother (Mrs. Theodore Skinner) joined during this meeting." Mrs .Armstrong said that her mother was the first woman bap tized in the new church. Will Swart z was the first young man. Ten or fif- teen were baptized that night. Some persons say the name of the evangelist was spelled "Cassell." In describing these early days Mrs. Armstrong wrote: "Most of the mem bers were poor and could not give in large sums but did give from week to week on all indebtedness. The building was kept clean by volunteer work. I have washed windows and lamp globes a good many times when my mother was helping. Mother thinks the first pulpit Bible was given by Bro, Page. Carpets chandeliers, pulpit cover hymn books and all little needs were bought little at a time by the Ladies Aid Society and dona- tions of the mefnbers. The Ladies Aid did everything to rai^e money. One time when Barnum' s big show was in town they served a big dinner down- town. " Sometime in 1885, the members of the church met to elect officers and a pastor. Some were opposed to rehiring Mr. Page on account of his age. (He was then 65) They wanted a ycung man. Others were anxious for Mr. Page to continue but he wculd not consent to do so without a unanimous call. So the leadership of the congregation passed from the hands of the one man who above all others had worked to effect its organization and to tend and nurture it during its early days. The north wing of the Students' Home burned in early 1885 and was not rebuilt. After a time the Pages disposed of the property and moved away. Mr. Page first located near Bloomington. but soon moved to Kansas City, Missouri and while there preached at he ■ hurch in Westport (now the Hyde Park Christian Church), and also at Hickman Mills Christian Church. Later he moved to Manv lie. Wyoming, and continued preaching even though so feeble he had to sit in a chair rather than stand in the pulpit. He died in December, 1892, and was buried there, but when the family moved to Olympia, Washington, his grave was moved there to the Masonic Ceme- tery. He had preached for fifty years. His wife survived until 1908. Mr.Muns wrote: "I was quite well acquainted with Bro.Page, having roomed and boarded at the Students' Home for near a year during the years 1880 and 1882. He was a little above the average size, not tall but ra- ther sturdy, with full beard, quite gray, a man with a kindly smile and speech and with a wisdom that only age, experience, and thought can give. He was untiring in his efforts to establish a church in the University ci- ty and I was once told by Pro.Shawhan that Bro.Page obtained much of the funds for building it from his friends in Woodford County where he formerly lived. Sister Page also was much devoted to the new church and took it upon herself to prepare the table in the church on Sunday mornings. In a letter written in 1933, Mrs.Currey said: "Father loved that church as he loved his children and greatly rejoiced over its progress as friends wrote him of it. And it has prospered wonderfully, fulfilling its purpose as he hoped and dreamed it would. I think he must know about it up in Heaven and still rejoice." Mr.Muns wrote that Bro. B. R. Heffley followed Bro.Page as minister and that he in turn was soon succeeded during 1886 by B.N.Anderson. Mr.Muns continued: "Of the membership of that early day, there comes to my mind first of all and staunchest of all, Bro.and Sister George R.Shaw- shan who assumed a great share of the leadership and responsibilities of the infant church. I think Bro.Shawshan and Bro.McMillen were the elders. Then there was the Swartz family whose son Mac and daughter, Laura were teachers in the Bible school. Then there was Bro. Young, Bro.H. G. Banes and Bro. Will McLaughlin, who were deacons part of the time .I^ith ink Bra. Theodore Skinner was a deacon too. Then there were the Kimball family, the Shurtz family, the (widow) Thomas Family,, the Skinner family, (widow) Muns family, the (widow) Roberts family., the (widow) Branch and daughter, "Aunt Mag" Higginbottorru a sister of Bro. Shawhan : and James Shawhan and wife - he helped much I think as carpenter with building the church and the Crane family who were free givers and many more." During periods when there was no regular pastor, some members of the congregation supplied. Bro. James McMillen, a charter member, and a re- tired preacher from Madison, Indiana often filled the pulpit. A Bro.Mil- leir and Ero. George R. Shawhan also preached often. Mrs . Arms trong thought the membership during this period was about 100. Chapter 4 The Ministry Of S.S.Jones The church made a splendid growth under the leadership of Samuel Syl- vester Jones who began a ministry of seven years in the fall of 1887. Rev. Jones was a young broad-minded, enthusiastic progressive worker. He was popular among the business men of the community. From his initials, they ailed him ''Sunday School Jones". Mrs. Arthur Leasure of Champaign a daughter of Mr. and Mrs.G.S.Dil- 1 on who united with the church in 1888 wrote of Mr. Jones as follows: "During the winter of 1889, Bro. Jones; field a revival meeting which net^ ced great results. It was no uncommon thing for him to preach a rousing sermon, step down and sing a touching solo before the invitation, then after the sleeping children had been lifted from the floor at his feet, they would raise the floor over the baptistry and he would immerse from three to a dozen persons." The congregation soon outgrew its building and the church was enlarged to about cwice its original size, Mrs . S. S.Jones in a letter dated No- vember 28 1933 said: "The building was enlarged but in what year, I am not sure. I do recall that we finished it on Saturday before a convention that began on the Lord's Day. And what a large, happy group of workers!" An organ was purchased and a choir organized The church also had an active young people's Christian Endeavor Society even though there were older members at this time who were opposed to organizations of young folks, feeling that they were not scriptural- Mrs. Armstrong said: "I think about 1890, we enlarged the White Street Churchy building the Sunday School rooms on the west side of the old building, and also the entry." There was a well organized, flourishing Sunday School at this time. George R.Shawhan was superintendent for a number of years. Some of the teachers were Wm.Swartz. B. F. Templeton. Mrs .J. F. White, J . P. Leasure, Mr.Seadn and Frankie Kimball. Mrs.Th|o Skinner taught a class of boys among whom was Luther Armstrong who l^ter became her son-in-law and was treasurer and trustee of the church for many years. Mrs. Mag Higgenbottom taught girls. Prof .H. S.Piatt and A.C.Muns were teachers of the student class, Mr.Shawhan taught younger married folks and Mr. Jones taught the older members. A little later, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Leasure taught classes of boys and girls. As the church grew some younger members felt the need of a special organization to further their interests. Records show that in the later 1880' s, a group of twenty-two high school girls of the White Street Church organized and called themselves WE SUNFLOWER CLUB. Their aim was to promote social life and Christian service. Miss Anna Ross was sponsor of the club. The girls were most active during the ministry of S.S.Jones. 10 They carried on many service projects for the church. Later, after Mr. Jones was minister of what later became the Central Christian Church in Danville, the club purchased a window for the study in his new church. A newspaper clipping furnished by Mrs. Anna Ross Jacobs stated: "The Sunfflower Club has reorganized by electing Miss Lillian Skinner Presi- dent: Miss Ida Dillon, secretary; Miss 01 lie Phil lis, treasurer and Miss Anna Ross, superintendent." No date was stated, but it was probably some time in 1894. Another item also undated, gave an account of one of the social events of this organization: "The members of the Sunflower Club were delight- fully entertained at the home of Misses Meyers, 504 E.Clark Street, Fri- day night. Progressive proverbs was the game arranged for entertainment and amusement of the guests, and light refreshments were served. The com- pany listened to several enchanting musical selections rendered by Messrs. Wold and Euel. The guests of the evening included Mesdames Edna Armstrong, Kate Stoltey. Mae Colgrove and Li Hie Price; Misses Louise Stolty, Roby Tillson, Lydia Camp, Bettie Hinkle, Emma Price, Lillian Skinner, Edith Merchant, Frankie Kimball, Anna Ross, Carrie Jones, Judie Whittemore, and Messrs. Ed Fucik f J. Col grove, Fred A.Buel, J.W.Thompson, John Sprague, Raymond Wiley, C.E.Hempel Bert Skinner, John Camp, Edward Long, M.L.Arm- strong , and Earl Merritt." These were no doubt the active young people in the White Street Church at the time. A number of them later became leaders in the University Place Church. Mrs. S. ; . Jones was asked to name some leaders of the White Street Church when her husband was minister there. She wrote in 1933: "Tlie stand- bys! What a crowd of faces came before me. The Shawhan f s - George and Jim and families, Leasures, Juttons, Mrs.Branck and Jennie, Mrs. Thomas and daughters May and Belle Anna Ross and mother; Mr. and Mrs.Cy Strong; Staffords, a photographer, Elmer Price and oh r so many more just as dear, Muns, Tacket, Etc., etc." Mrs. Arthur Leasure and her mother. Mrs. Dillon, named from memory the following members of the White Street Church, giving occupation of the head of the family when known. Although there are gaps in some cases with respect to initials and occupations, the list is presented: George R.Shawhan and family - Superintendent of Schools Champaign County, later a banker. Mr. and Mrs. Jim Shawhan - Farmer, brother of George. Mr. and Mrs. Allen McLaughlin - Caretaker of U. of I. gymnasium, grand- father of Mary Havard. Mr. and Mrs. William McLaughlin, U. of I. employee Mr. and Mrs.Theo Skinner and family - Grandfather of Warren Harris. 11 Mrs. Ross and Anna Mrs. Kimball and Frankie Mr. and Mrs.Swearingen and Walter Owner of shoe store. Urbana. Mr. and Mrs. Cyrus Strong Retired farmer, uncle of the late Guy Stanner. Mr. J. F.White , Insurance agent Champaign Mr. and Mrs.G.E. Amsbury - Dry goods business Urbana Mr. and Mrs. Elian Pruit - Retired farmer. Mr. and Mrs. W.C.Tackett High School teacher. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Jutton and family Carpenter in Big Four Shops. Mr. and Mrs. J.P.Leasure and family = Brick contractor, father of Ar thur Leasure and grandfather of Iris Harris Mr. and Mrs. G. S.Dillon and family - Building contractor, father of Mrs. Ida Leasure. Mr. and Mrs. F.M.Dukes - Grocery clerk. Mr. and Mrs. A.D. Havard and Mary = Farmer , manager of Mt.Hope Cemetery. Mr. and Mrs. J.H.Armstrong and family Professor and Mrs. Piatt Prof. and Mrs. Cyril G.Hopkins - Head Agronomy Dept., U.of I., World renouned Soil Scientist. Sudie, Margaret and Missie Whitmore Dr. and Mrs. Frank Ross Dr. and Mrs.W.M.Homm Practicing physician. Champaign. Mrs. Mars tel la and daughter Mr. and Mrs.Stoolman and son, Winn. F.K.Robeson - Oner of Robeson Department Store. Champaign. Mr. and Mrs. F.B. Vennum Vinnie and Ernest - Champaign banker and land- owner. Mrs. Meyers and daughter Pearl. Mr. and Mrs. Sanders Mr. Grant Meneeley - Building contractor It is not possible to obtain a list of the entire membership during Mr. Jones Ministry but it is evident that many of these people were faith- ful members of the congregation for years after the new church was built on Wright Street and the congregation took the name University Place Christian Church. Mr. Jones helped in organizing the Christian -Clyirch of Rantoul in the autumn of 1892 by holding Sunday afternoon services for a period of sev- eral weeks. Mr. Jones accepted a call to the Christian Church in Danville, II linois in 1894. Mrs. Jones gave this record from Mr. Jones diary under date of April 28 1894:" Received a telegram from Danville, called me for five years. What shall I do? Dear Savior, help me to decide right." He and Mrs. Jones left Champaign the first of September 1894. They did a splendid piece of work there over many years. 12 Chapter 5 Samuel Sylvester Jones Pastor 1887-1894 Following is the obituary of Mr.Jcnes which was in the Christian Evan gelist Oct. 15, 1931. It was written by H-H-Peters State Evangelist of Illinois: " Samuel Sylvester Jones was born near Owensville Ky en the twentieth day of November 1859. His parents were James Madison Jcnes and Martha Estill Jones. His elementary education was obtained in the country school. He attended the academy in Owensville then under the direction of Dr. Potter an unusually competent scholar and teacher. La ter he attended a no ma I school in Indiana. He ^stas for a few verms a successful school teacher As a young man he was ever the leadsr of song in social and religious gatherings. "He grew up in a family of seven brothers and two sisters. One sister and three brothers survive Mrs, Nannie Goodpastc Orensville Kentu ky John T.Jo(ies Lebanon Indiana James S. Jones Plainfield Indiana and Silas Jones of Eureka Illinois. "He first :ame to Bement Illinois. While there he was in the employ ci the Christian Publishing Company for several months. He was married to Dora Evans May 29 1894, They immediately went to Homes- Illinois where he served the Christian Church as ipastor, Following this were two other pastorates in Champaign Conn y St. Joseph and Champaign He began in Champaign in 1887 and remained with the Church of Christ in that city some seven years. The congregation then owned a small church building on East White Street. Under his efficient leadership it was not long until the crowd outgrew the building and it was rebuilt, making it twice its original size He usually conducted his own revivals, would sing a song preceding the invitation and had great power to move his audience to action. "Along about 1894 he received a call to hold a meeting for our church in Danville, The congregation was small having at that time only about eighty five members. This meeting resulted in 135 additions- The Danville Church extended him a call to become its pastor, Pzobably the greatest decision of his entire ministry was rendered. He saw the opportunities at Danville. The brethern at Champaign were a little slow to se^ their opportunities. Brother Jones felt he could serve the cause more by ac cepting Danville than by remaining in Champaign. Danville became his home. He held another meeting just a little later resulting in 145 *ddi tions. 'A new church was the order of the day. This was dedicated February 13 1896. He organized the Second Church in 1898. He also organised the Third Church in Danville in 1901 and led in the erection of a new house of worship in 1902- This first section of his ministry in Danville came 13 to an end and was followed by pastorates in Madisonville Kentucky and Watseka Illinois. He was Assistant to Dr. Charles S.Mcdbury in Universi ty Church Des Moines Iowa for several months while Brother Medbury was doing war work. "Returning to Illinois he served the churches at Georgetown and Cat lin suburbs of Danville and about eighteen months ag„ he became pastor of the Fourth Church in Danville. During his en'iie life he had not been handicapped to any great extent by illness On last De oration Day he was taken ill and soon had to give up his regular preaching. The chu: h continued his regular ministry and remembered him with his check the same as when he was active in the work. He t Q ok the Fourth Church on a half-time service, He passed away amidst the friends of forty years" min- istry. The funeral was one of the largest ever held in Dan ille. There were eighteen preachers present. Here is a thing to be said to the everlasting credit of S.S.Jones that h was one of the youngest men in his though > and spirit in the en- tire Illinois ministry. He had one of the best private libraries in the state and knew what was in it. He loved the ministry was especially fond of young preachers. In the dav of his strength he was the comrade of H.H. Gill i land John I.Gunn W. W.Weedon J.Fred Jones his cousin and a large number of mighty men many of whom have gone befo. 'He died Sunday morning at eight o clock September 13 1.931. The funer- al was held in hhe Central Christian Chur h of Danville John E, Foster pastor having charge. The fyneral sermon was preached by H.H.Peters of Bloomington. " Mrs. Samuel S, Jones was a ery capable loveable minister s wife. She was Dora Evans born in Piatt County, Illinois* January 17 1861. Her father united with the church under Alexander Campbell. 0> her mo- ther,' s side, Mrs. Jones was descended from the Joseph Hoi lister family of Connecticut, Mrs, Jones wrote in 1933 'Early in life I took inventory of myself and found I had not a single special gift so I tried to give my life to whatever duty seemed to come my way. I am an ardent believer in and worker for Missions W.C.T.U. and the church.". Mrs. Jones not only took an active part in church life but was also active in community enterprises while living in Champaign. She was a mem- ber of the school board of Champaign when one of the early Champaign High School buildings was built. 14 Chapter 6 Four Pastors in Eight Years B.L.Allen was the next regular minister after S. S.Jones. The exact date of the beginning of his work is uncertain but he preached during the year 1895. Mr. Allen was a young man, recently married, when he came to Cham- paign. Mrs. Cora Boice remembered that Mrs. Allen organized a Junior Christian Endeavor Society. Mrs. Boice was a member and was later presi- dent of the organization. W.H.Cannon took the ministry January 1,1896. Mrs. Armstrong had an old program of the reception tendered to Mr. and Mrs, Cannon at the church on the evening of January 3, 1896. Ministers of three other churches and representative members of White Street Christian Church participated in the program planned by F.W.Stafford. Those taking part were Mrs. John F* Mills, Pastor of First Baptist Church. Urbana Rev. John Rice of the First Presbyterian Church, Champaign, Dr. O'Neal Pastor of the First Methodist Church Champaign George R.Shawhan. of the White Street Church Board W. C.Tackett representing the Sunday School Mrs. L.E.White of the C.W.B.M. Oliver D.Havard of the Christian Endeavor Society. Information is lacking as to how long Mr. Cannon preached but it was 1896 and part of 1897. E.C.Stark followed Mr. Cannon as Minister. Mr. Stark was a quiet mid- dle-aged man. His old st daughter was married. Claude and Amy, his chil- dren were public school teachers. There were three other children Blanch Ralph and a younger son. Mr. Luther Armstrong who was church treasurer for a number of years made available the treasurer's books of 1899 1900 and 1901. Notations in these books give some interesting bits of history pertaining to Rev. Stark' s ministry. Record of January I, 1899 shows a " deficit of $58.90 due Brother E.C. Stark." This indicates that Mr. Stark preached in 1898. Further record shows that he left the church at the close of 1899. This item appears under date of December 31, 1898: "Borrowed S2.00 from repair fund to set- tle with Brother Stark in full." The total amount paid to Mr Stark during the year 1899 was 1650 or an average of $ 12. 50 per Sunday. His salary was paid weekly in irregular a™ mounts. Miscellaneous expense items were substracted from the weekly col- lection and the remainder paid to the pastor. About two hundred giving members were listed for 1899. The total expenditures for the year were , "!781.48. Fifty-two dollars of this was paid for Janitor s services, ^6.17 for State work, $5.86 for Foreign Missions, leaving a remainder after the minister's salary was paid, of $68.55 which had been spent for coal, lights, repairs, etc. 15 In the Fall of 1899 the congregation decided not o hire Mr. Stark for the following year. Search was begu^ for s new minister. On December 8 ; "Mr. Idleman (probably Finis) preached a trial sermon and was given $4.30 to cover his traveling expenses. When the first of the year came no one had been secured. During January and February a Brother Brickert a Rev. Lewis and F.C.VanTress were listed as receiving small sums. These men were probably preaching trial sermons. On March 1 1900, W.P, Shamhart was paid $25 for railroad expenses. It is evident that a contract was made with Mr Shamhart at this time. Under date of April 8 8 was this item: Paid to Bro. Shamhart for moving $109-00 which is $9.00 over agreement. A(mbrose) and W. Strong advanced $20.00." Beginning April 22, 1900, W. P. Shamhart was on the weekly payroll of the church receiving an average of $20.00 a week Mr. Shamhart had a family of eleven interesting hildren the oldest of whom was Lola a daughter in high school. The story is told that when the 11th child was born someone remarked to one of the little boys that it was fine to have a new baby at his house. He replied, "I don t know whether it is or not. I m about crowded of! the bench now.' But even though Mr, Shamhart had many home duties he came to Champaign with a world of enthusiasm for his church work. A measure of his power is shown by the fact that on the first day of his ministry a collection of five dollars was given for foreign missions an amount almost' equal ing all that was given for foreign missions the previous year. That was the more surprising in view of the fact that the church only two weeks before had advanced $109 to Mr. Shamhart for moving expenses. Four weeks later $17.50 was paid to Ben j . L.Smith for Home Missions. In September $10.70 was paid to G.W.Muckley for Church Extension. During 1901 Mr. Shamhart continued as pastor at the same salary. That year $63.65 was given to Missions and $12.24 to Church Extension. It was during 1901 that the church began to feel the need of a larger and better building. Mr. Shamhart caught up the vision of Bio. Page of what the church might be able to do for students in a growing university center. It was decided that it would be well to leave the old church and get a new location nearer the campus,. In persuance of this idea a lot on the southwest corner of Springfield Avenue and Wright Street was con- tracted for and agreement made to pay the sum of $2,000. This was made possible mainly through a generous pledge by Mr F. B,Vennum a banker who had come from Fisher Illinois and with his family joined the church in 1900- Thia change of lo- ation was unanimous in spite of the fact that the little White Street Church was very dear to the hearts of many of its members. Memories of decisions for Christ Baptisms weddings and funer- als were onnected with it, 16 Chapter 7 White Street Christian Church Becomes The Christian Church University Place The decision to build a new church building on Wright Street was ta- ken as important news and given prominent publicity in the local news- papers. The following items were furnished by Mrs.Vinnie Johnston, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.Vennum who figured so helpfully in the new project. "tt was a handsome gift that made to the Church of Christ by F.B, Vennum a check of Sixteen Hundred Dollars relieves the Society of all indebted- ness" "There is happiness among the members of the Church of Christ. At Sun- day morning service at this church, Rev. W.P. Shamhart made the announce- ment that Mr. F.B. Vennum made the church a present of $l,600l to be used in lifting the indebtedness on the lot at Wright Street and Springfield Avenue, purchased some time ago as a site for the proposed new church. The Vennum gift cleared the society debt completely and it is now in po- sition to start into the new church enterprise without the burden of one single dollar. The Vennum gift came as a free will offering and took the greater majority of the members completely by surprise. Rev, Shamhart states that now plans will be pushed with all possible haste for the e- rection of a handsome new edifice the coming Spring and Summer with the hope of dedicating it the coming Fall. "As is known by readers of The Champaign Gazette, Rev. Mr. Shamhart, on account of throat trouble, has been compelled to resign the pastorate of the Church of Christ, and it is expected that his successor will be cho- sen the coming two weeks or so." The above item probably appeared in the Champaign County Gazette in December of 1901. Another undated item from the Vennum scrap book states "Rev. J. W. Knight , now stationed at Monier , Illinois;, in charge of the Christian Church there has been called to the pulpit of the Church of Christ. He will arrive in the city next Saturday and the following day will deliver sermons morning and evening. "Rev. Mr .Knight is thirty-one years of age, is married and has one child three years of age. Before entering the ministry he was an attor ney and gave up a very good practice to go into the pulpit where he has been very successful. He is said to be an orator of much more than ordi- nary ability, and a young man who cannot but make friends no matter where he finds himself." Another newspaper itemr "F.K.Robeson, F.B. Vennum, and J.F.White, fi- nance committee of the building arrangements of the Church of Christ, opened the books for subscriptions Monday. The lot at the corner of Springfield and Wright which was on condition the property of the church, was freed by the gift of $800 from Mr. Vennum, and in addition to this 17 M Vennum gives SI 500 in rash and Mr Robeson $2 000 With the present church which will be sold the available funds now amount to $5 000 The south half of the lot will be reserved for a parsonage Mr.Vennum assuming its value until the congregation may be able to take care of it. Subscriptions are coming in well a«d the new building is assured a fact which greatly encourages the peoplt of that church." In that day when automobiles were almost unknown this lot at the cor- ner of Springfield and Wright was considered a very desirable one for a church because a street car line adjoined it on the south. Folks could come by street ear from both Champaign and Urbana Changing to a new location led to other hanges one of which was the change in the name of the church. An account of this action is con- tamed in the record of the incorporation of the church under the new name University Place. This was furnished by Mr. Robert Maxson and is as follows Affidavit of Oliver K.Doney S&SDec.20O2 Dec. 22-02 9 1 St. of II i.e. a SS Oliver K.Donev being 1st duly sw on his oath deps & says th on the 10th day of Aug. ■-02 at the Church of Christ for the purp of electg a Bd of Trs for the new church prop It and building at the cor of Wright St. and Springfield Ave and takg a corp name in the sd of chp, The notice of sd meetg was given accoddg to custom & practice of sd Church. Th the folwg trs were elected for the term marked opposite ^heir names: J. F.White- term 1 yr. F.K.Robeson Term~2yrs. and F.B.Vennum 3 years. The corp name a- dopted is "The Christian Church University Place" th at ad meetg the old Trs. were instr to mk out a D in blank for such church prop of White St. and turn the sm over to the new Trs They to negot a sale as soon as poss & apply the proceeds toward the new church prop on Wright St.& Spring- field Ave in the sd C. of Chp 111. the afif was Secy of ad meetg. S & S to bef S.A.Blaine N,P C-C.I. The October 8 1902 issue of the Champaign County Herald gives this item: "Work was commenced last week on the fou dation for the new Christ- ian Church at the corner of Wright Street and Springfield Ave. When com pleted the church will be one of the handsomest and most complete churches in the twin cities. Work on the church will be rushed from now on as the congregation is becoming anxious to ha*& it ompleted by the first of the year. " Mr. Knight was ill during the summer of 1902 with typhoid feve- . Du ing the fall months he tried to resume his work but could not stand up under the load. Work on the new building was progressing rapidly and time 18 for the formal laying of the corner stone was drawing near. Mr. Knight' s declining strength made it apparent to him that he would need some help on this important occasion. He had known Stephen E.Fisher minister of the First Christian Church at Gibson City, Illinois for some time and he immediately thought of him as one to call upon. Mr. Fisher told that in October of 1902, Mr. Knight called him over the telephone during the week before the laying of the cornerstone of Univer- sity Place Church and asked him to come to his assistance. Mr. Knight was too ill to preach so requested Mr. Fisher to come and fill his pulpit on Sunday and speak at the laying of the cornerstone the next day. Mr. Fish- er consented to do so, making his first visit to Champaign at that time. Both Mr. Fisher and Mrs. Frank Leasure, years later, talked of the beauty of the warm autumn day when the cornerstone was placed but neither remembered the exact date. However, it was on or after October 26 ; 1902 because there were papers in the cornerstone box bearing this date. The floor of the new church had been laid. A piano and chairs had been ar- ranged upon it. Many people stood in the church yard. Mr. Fisher said he remembered the crowd of students in attendance and even at that time felt drawn toward work at the University campus. In 1902, the total number of students in the University of Illinois and its preparatory school was l s 896 with 189 professors and instruc- tors. It seems that Mr. Knight was never able to preach after this time. For several months the pulpit was filled by various preachers, probably most often by Rev. E.J. Stanley a retired minister of the Christian Church and father of Dr.O.C. Stanley of Urbana and later of Decatur. In the Champaign Daily Gazette - March 28,1903 we read? Word comes from Mrs. Jay W. Knight, at Redwood, California that no improvement is shown in her husband's health. Mr. Knight is pastor of the Christian Church of this city, and is off on a trip in hopes of physical improve- ment. It is believed that consumption is his trouble and that his reco- very is a matter of very serious doubt." After the death of Mr. Knight which occurred in California, the church board set about to secure a new pastor. Mr.Shawhan once said that they remembered the fine looking, black haired, earnest young preacher from Gibson City and decided to offer him the position without further search. Mr. Fisher accepted the offer and planned to come to Champaign July 1. 1903. He had graduated from Eureka College in 1900 and had been minister of the First Christian Church in Gibson City for three years. His wife, Myrtle Stoner Fisher, was also a graduate of Eureka. 19 Chapter 8 The Coming Of Stephen E Fisher Stephen E.Fisher came to Champaign the first of July 1903 at the age of thirty-two, to begin a ministry which grew more and more influential through the years and which continued to July 1 1948. Mr. Fisher often told of hitching Old Belle to the surrey in Gibson City and bringing Mrs.Fishei v?ith Richard and Helen (Robe it was born la- ter in Champaign) across country to Champaign a long day s journey of 35 miles. Their first night was spent at the home of F.B.Vennum on West Springfield Avenue, Champaign. As they sat out in the cool of the evening they saw the unusual sight of three automobiles parsing along the street. Mr. Fisher preached his first sermon as minister of the church on July 5 1903 in the old White Street building. One of his first tasks in his new ministry was to make himself a church roll. It seems that Mr. Knight had taken the list of members to California and it had been lost. The financial problem of the new church also fell heavily upon Mr. F;.sher this first year. F,K Robeson owne*: of one of Champaign's leading department stores and F^B.Vennum Champaign Banker were very generous. Mr.Thomas Bondur&nt of Deland usually matched their gifts because of his interest in having a Christian Church at the campus of the Universi- ty of Illinois, In the Fall of 190 3 when it was imperative tc get some cash for the ongoing of the new building project Mr.Vennum secu: d a promise from Mr, Robeson to be one of thg?ee to give $1 000. Mi .Vennura in eluded himself as a second and he hoped Mr . Bondurant would be the third. Accordingly.. Mr,Vennum appointed Mr Fishex to go out to Deland to present the matter to Mr .Bondurant. Mr.Fishe went to Deland on the train and made his way to the splendid home of Mx.Bondurant where he and his pis ter lived yery comfortable with their servants, Mr. Fisher admitted that he was an inexperienced and timid solicitor buv he explained his errand as best he could Mr.Bondurant seemed to ignore the appeal turned the conversation to other matters and finally urged Mr .Fisher to stay for lunch which he did. After the meal Mr - Bondurant went to his desk wrote a check for $1,000 and presented it to the young minister daying "You go back and tell Mr.Vennum this is the easiest money you ever got." Mr Fisher said he was so happy that he could not wait for the evening train but made his way across country to Farmer City where he caught a Big Four railroad train and ca&e into Champaign triumphant in the after- noon. The congregation moved into the new building on the corner of Spring field and Wright in October 1903, Dedication services were conducted on October 11, by J.H.Gil liland Pastor of the First Christian Church of Bloomington, Illinois. Mr. Fisher said It was a dedicatory service of 20 which he always was proud. Attractive programs bearing hand pasted prints of the new building were issued. The music in charge of Mrs.Vin- nie Johnston was splendid. Money in an amount sufficient to cover all in- debtedness was subscribed. Hie building was a modern" square brick structure with stone, and stone columns at the entrance on the North. The seating capacity was a- bout 350 including the balcony. There was a pastor's study, parlors, and a well arranged kitchen and dining room. Some members long remembered the pride they felt in having a pastor's study. The building committee was F. B.Vennum, F.K.Robeson, and J.F.White. Seeley Brown was Architect and English Brothers, contractors. According to a statement found in the cornerstone box which was opened 29 years later, the "amount of contract price not including heating, seating, plumbing, etc., was 113,260." The church had a building and a pastor of which they could be proud. Many students were attracted to the services of the church. This was the only church building of any size near the campus at that time. Mr. Fisher said that he had many Methodist students in his audiences until Methodist officials became concerned about it and built a church of their own-The Trinity Methodist. Later, this building was sold and became the Twin City Bible Church. A list of the officers of the church at the time it moved into the new building in the fall of 1903 was found in a "Community Organizations" number of the Champaign Daily News under date of November 25, 1903. The following was given concerning University Place Christian Church: "Rev. Stephen E.Fisher is pastor of the New Christian Church at Universi- ty Place. Elders are E.J.Stanley, George B.Shawhan and F. B.Vennum. Mr. Stanley is president of the church board and Mr.Shawhan is secretary. M.L.Armstrong is treasurer. The trustees are F. B.Vennum, F.K.Robeson, and J.F.White. Mr.Vennum is superintendent of the Sunday School. J.E.Dunn is president of the Christian Endeavor Society, and Miss Gertrude Doney is choirmaster, Mrs. V.W.Johnston is pianist and J.F.White is superinten- dent of the ushers." Mrs.Vinnie Johnston supplied a copy of the church bulletin of Novem- ber 1,1903 which she thinks was the first bulletin given out by the church. It bears evidence that the congregation was carrying on many ac- tivities. The church board met at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday; Ladies Aid Socie- ty at 2:30 p.m. Monday; Teachers' Meeting, Monday evening from 7 to 8; C.E. Mission Study Class, Tuesday evening from 6:30 to 7:30; Bible Study Club, Wednesday 7:15 to 8:15; choir rehearsal .Wednesday 8:15; section meetings of Ladies Aid, Thursday afternoon and Mr. and Mrs. Fishers' "at home" at their residence, 507 E.Daniel, Tuesday evenings. 21 When the church was built no place was provided for a pipe organ. But in 1906, even though the building deb had not been lifted the church decided to have an organ installed. Since there was no place for a sound chamber a great engineering feat had uted before the organ could be installed in a satisfactory way 1VL Fsher spoke of this being one of the most trying experiences— rebuilding a whole side of a new church to put m an organ. Evangelistic or "revival'- meetings were held regularly each Winter for several years. It was, to a large extent during these periods of ingathering hat the church g ew from a small congregation to a large one. In some years Mr Fishe preached he sermons and carried on these meetings with only the help of a singer. More often the church secured a special Evangelist who preached the sermons and worked with Mr. Fishe. in leading the campaign, A list of some visiting evangelists who worked here during his early ministry was furnished by Mr. Fisher as follows John Marshall in 1905 and again in 1908 Brooks Brothers 1907 Tucker man and wife (singers) in November of 1908 C.HBioom 1910 J.O.Breedon 1912 William Lock hart with Harris as singer 1920 Taylor 1922 Ben Edwards with Mr. and Mrs. Walker in 1926 Arthur Long and Greenup 1928 Jesse Bader with Rev.Talley (singer) 1927 WmLoikhart again with Mrs.Lockhart and Geo' in 1930 some singers were Millard Pollocks. 1924 Mrs, Powell 1907 and Princess Long. In November of 1908 Mr. Fisher with the help of Mr and Mrs.Tuckerman held a tent meeting on North Hickory Street in north Champaign. A giocp ci people were reached in this meeting who were faithful members of Uni versity Place through the years notable the O.S.Evans family and the H.C.Richards family. Miss Via Richards (later Mrs, S.E. Fisher) who was the efficient church secretary and pastor s helper from 1913 to 1948 be- came a member at that time, 22 Chapter 9 The Brooks Brothers* Meetings In order to show the significance and character of the special evange- listic efforts, one of the most effective revival meetings has been chosen for presentation in some detail. The one selected is the Brooks Brothers' meetings. They had a profound influence on the church. Mr. Fisher said it was this meeting that made his little church a big church. The series las- ted from January 5 to March 22, 1907. More than 400 new members were ad- ded. The entire campaign received much newspaper publicity. The following are notations and extracts from accounts found in Hie Champaign Daily Gazette files of 1907: Sat. Jan. 5, 1907 - A two column photograph of W. T.Brooks was on first page. Evangelistic services under the direction of Brooks Brothers, Evan- gelists, will begin in University Place Christian Church this even- ing. These preachers come to Champaign with records for making big additions to other churches in which they have preached, and mem- bers of the Christian Church are expecting great things from their work. There will be special music at each of the series of sermons to be preached. The public is invited to attend. Mon.Jan.7 - A first page article - Church was crowded at Sunday night meeting. Jan. 9 - Brooks revival takes hold of University Place Church - 4 nights- 14 additions. Delegation from Danville among whom was Rev. S. S.Jones. Jan. 10 - Eleven additions. Jan. 11 - Three additions. Every seat in the house was taken. Extra chairs filled all available space. 12 were baptized by Mr. Fisher. Dr. W.H.Alford of Ladoga, Indiana, a noted evangelist, will be a vis- itor tonight making a special trip 200 miles to attend the meetings. "A Creed for all Christendom" - theme tonight. Doors open at 7:00 - Service - 7: 30. Jan. 12 - Saturday - In spite of downpour of rain last night, the Chris- tian Church was filled to overflowing to hear the Brooks Brothers. Nine more additions bringing the total to 37. Among those who came forward last night were four heads of families. The invitation was pressed with great earnestness. Jan. 14 - Monday - Large Audience last night at special meeting at Univ. Place Church. 11 additions - 57 to date. Special street cars were in waiting at the church entrance at close of the services for the accomodation of those attending from Champaign and Urbana. It was announced that this special street car service will be continued from night to night as long as the meetings are in progress. Jan. 15 - Subject "Hell" tonight. Special service Thursday night. Free tickets. 23 Jan. 16.- Bad sleet and snow, 8 more additions. Many people are pre- dicting the greatest religious awakening in the history of the Twin Cities. Jan. .1.7 - Thurs. Interest in Brooks revival continues in spite of great downpour of rain. 3 additions 70 to date. Members have been asked to give choice seats to visitors. Jan. 18 Fri„ - A remarkable full house greeted evangelists considering downpour of rain. (Greatest flood in history of Champaign. Big Four tracks washed out at Neil Street). Jan. 21 - Monday. Nearly 400 in Bible school yesterday. A round 100 addi- tions to date. Interest in revival is spreading. Numbers from neigh- boring towns were present. Some members from JH.Gilliland' s church in Bloomington attended. Next Sunday night services will be held in University Armory on Springfield Avenue. Crowds turned away, Jan. 23 - Wed. (10° below zero.) Large audience Among other S.S.Jones of Danville who was at one time pastor of the church here. Mr. Jones made a short talk in the early part of the service. He said,, with the exception of his present pastorate in Danville. no church in all the world was so dear to him as the Champaign Church. He looked over the audience and remarked that he saw a number of grown young men and women who were now very bone and sinew of the church whom he baptized as children. He made a strong appeal in behalf of the chil dren that they be not only allowed but urged to become Christians. Mr. Brooks preached on "Heaven". The invitation song is a time in the revival that is made the most solemn season. The evangelists do not urge unduly the claims of the gospel nor do the members embar- rass any one who attends. Jan. 24 - Thurs. (Ice) 7 additions - 111 in all, Rev.Fisher has a large force of workers organized and under his management they are doing ^ splendid work. He has both the Home phone and the Bell phone in- stalled in his study now and invites his people to call him at any time. Jan. 25 - Fri. Embargo on Armory for next Sunday night on account of Dip- theria but hope to have it Feb. 3. Children's mass meeting next Sunday at 3 P.M. Everyone bring a nail, Jan. 26 - Sat. Brooks Brothers revival grows apace. Many new faces seen in audience. The students being through with their examinations are in evidence in great numbers. 124 additions to date- Jan.28 - Mon. 39 additions yesterday. Crowds turned away from evening service as early as 7 o'clock. The marvelous growth of the church has attracted the attentions of both cities. Three years ago the church building was large enough but now it is only about 1/3 as large as it should be. 24 Jan. 30 - Wed. 165 additions to date. Jan. 31 - Thurs. 175 additions to date. Tonight a service of special interest. Doors open at 6:30 - service at 7:30. Feb. 2 - Sat. Call for 550 in Sunday School. Sunday evening service will be moved to Armory. Feb. 4 - Mon. First page header. Over 2,000 in Armory for evening ser- vices. Double headers were run on the street car lines and every car was full. 432 at Sunday School. Collection $71.70. Feb. 8 - Fri. A total of 214 counted on Brooks revival. Announcement made that next Thursday night a special train will be run from Bloomington. Feb. 9 - Sat. Announce services for Armory Sunday night with 20 piece orchestra. Feb. 11 - Mon. 412 in Sunday School yesterday. Last night, the Armory was filled to overflowing. Twenty additions. 245 to date. Judging from every evidence , the interest is greater now than at any time in the history of the revival. Feb. 20 - Wed. Seven additions last night. Total of 293. "The Visitor", the local church paper of University Place says; 'here are some facts regarding the revival up to date which are startling. When we say there have been over 250 added to the church during the meeting we have but looked upon the results in one way. It is inter esting to kno* that of these, over 150 have been grown men and wom- en, 20 married couples; 44 mothers, 23 fathers ; 26 husbands; 54 wives; 140 homes reached. Think of it friends, there are whole churches in these two cities not having that many homes represented in the membership. Is it not a wonderful work! There was not a night during the meeting when there was not at least one addition." The Brooks brothers left the meeting of February 28 to meet an engage- ment in Mansfield f Ohio. 336 additions had been added during their work. Mr. Fisher felt that the meeting should not close, although it had been in progress almost eight weeks. With the help of Miss Powell and other singers; Mr. Fisher carried the meeting on for almost four more weeks, ending on March 21. 1907 with 407 additions. On March 22. 1907, the church board met to consider how to house their greatly enlarged congregation. It was stated that the church had added more than 800 members since the 1903 building was completed. It was definitely decided at this meeting to enlarge the building. However it was not until the first Sunday night in November, 1909 that the mortgage on the 1903 building was burned. There was much rejoicing. The church had lifted its financial burden and was ready to plan the ex- pansion of its plant. Space , which had once been considered for a par son - 25 age and located south- of the then o.cupied building was available for the enlargement . The actual work of doubling .^ty of the building did not be- gin ummer of 1910 more than three years after the Brooks Brothers revival. 26 Chapter 10 The Enlarged Church This University Place building was enlarged in such a careful way the stranger would seldom have been aware that the entire building was not built at one time. The same kind of red brick and stone trim was used. The architecture of the new part which was built to the south, blended in with the old. A large front entrance was built on the East, facing Wright Street, at the joining point of the two sections. And the entrance to the older part which faced Springfield Avenue became a side entrance to the North. The building was then rectangular instead of square. The oak trim of the interior was continued and the additional pews matched the old ones. The seating capacity was about doubled, making room for an audience of 750 or 800 persons. Similar to the older section, balconies were built on the East, South, and on a part of the west side of the large assembly room. Sunday School rooms were built under and over the balconies. Some of these rooms had doors and some only curtains to set them off from the main church room. The pipe organ was on the West side with the pulpit in front of it. To the north of this was a stone columned baptistery, in front of which stood the communion table. The floor was slightly raised in back. The new part could be closed off from the old by an immense rising partition which disappeared up into the attic by the use of cables. This partition was made unusable in 1914 by fire damage. In the basement, there were living quarters for the caretaker a church kitchen, and three large rooms which were used both for dining rooms and for assembly rooms of Beginners , Primary and Junior Sunday School chil- dren. Dedication services for the new plant were held April 24, 1911. The dedication news story which appeared in the Champaign News is given in part as follows: "Dedicate New University Place Christian Church Over $27,000 Pledged During The Day Largest Church in City Pastorate of Reverend S.E.Fisher fruitful to marked degree Protestant Churches closed in honor of the event "By the dedication of the Church of Christ, University Place, Sunday this community's largest place of worship was opened for service, the ceremony being one of the most impressive that has been conducted in the Twin Cities in many years. "The entire structure is not new, but the addition to the old one, or rather the one which had been in use several years, for the congregation is one of the youngest in the Twin Cities, almost doubled the capacity of the church and justified the members of the congregation in preparing 27 for the conducting a real dedication adding to the space for religious worship in the community in a way which was made necessary by the deep interest which was aroused in the citizens. "An evidence of the appreciation of this growth was the fact that Pro- testant churches of the city were closed for the day that ministers and members of the congregations might join the members of University Place Church in this great celebration of having succeeded in making an offer- ing which is for the good of the whole community. "At each of the three services, the church was filled with members and friends who feel an interest in the work which has been done and is to be done. The pastor Rev. S.E.Fisher was assisted in conducting the service by pastors of other churches both in the Twin Cities and in neighboring towns. "One of the features of the morning service, which pleased every mem- ber was the result of the Bible School rally thirty four young men and women responding to the plea to become members of the churchy a response which gave particular pleasure to Reverend Charles Reign Scovil le who was in charge of the service and who spoke at both the morning and evening services. The rally was followed immediately by the first of the dedica- tion services. At this service nine of the new members were baptized,, the first being little Grace Meneeley, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Grant Meneely. Mr*Meneeley is the general contractor for the new church. "A program of music preceded the fellowship service in the afternoon. Greetings were brought by President Edmund Janes James of the University of Illinois^ Rev. Samuel W. Fxndley, President of the Twin City Ministerial Association Miss Dupuy President of the Young Women's Christian Associ- ation. "Rev.E.W.Clippinger, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Cham- paign spoke at the only minister of the Protestant churches in the Twin Cities who was here when Rev. S, E. Fisher began his work in this city. Rev.Mr.Clippinger recalled many pleasant memories and congratulated this congregation on having grown so steadily and rapidly and commended Mr. Fisher for the good work he has done with the aid of his congregation - 'Among the out-of town ministers who talked during the fellowship ser- vice were; Rev. Frank Hoi lingsworth of Fisher Rev. Mr. Clark of Ludlow, Rev.E.D.Murch of Rantoul Rev. J. T.Davis of St. Joseph Dr.Swartz of Dan- ville and Evangelist Harry Barnett who is conducting services in Del and. Evangelist Kirkland who is conducting meetings in the First Baptist Church attended every service and took part in each. "Following the fellowship service, the communion was observed. Rev.Mr.E* V„ Stephens, of the Universal »st Church administered the sacre- ment. The ministers who served the twenty -four deacons were Re v. Mr. James 28 Baker Trinty Methodist Church Rev. Mr. Hornbaker of the; ,1am Street Christian Church; Rev.Mr.Primm of the Herald of Hope Baptist Church The whole congregation was served in ten minutes deacons performing this service in dignified manner, "Some time was required to take the evening offering, and note the large number of pledges and those in charge of this part report about % 10 000 given in small sums. The total for the day will more than give the church the $27,000 which was needed in the morning after the allow- ance for shrinkage and counting the pledged of those who were absent but desired to make contributions. "The music for the day under the direction of J.H.Kelley with Mrs. V.W.Johnston as organist was well planned and well received. Miss Ada Lamert, Detroit who had charge of the special work of building up the Eible School, reports a solid school of 904. the total attendance being 1,104. Miss Lamert says that of the forty churches she had worked in, this is the best appointed for this part of the church work." The dedicatory exercises reached a climax in the evening service. In addition to the sermon by Rev.Scoville and the administration of the or- dinance of baptism the formal dedication of the church building was pronounced. Copy of the last page of the Dedicatory Program: 'Dedication By The Congregation (to be read in concert) "Unto the King eternal immortal invisible, the only wise God be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. "We set apart and dedicate this house to the worship and praise of God our Father, and to the service of Jesus Christ our Lord by whose help and favor it has been built. We devote it to the preaching of the Gospel, the power of God unto salvation to the education of Christians in the knowledge of spiritual truth and to the activities of the Chris- tian life. "Here shall the incense of prayer and praise ascend to God. Here shall we seek to fulfill Christ's prayer for the unity of His people. Here shall the Gospel be sounded forth for the salvation of the lost. Here shall the ordinances commended by our Master be sacredly observed. Here shall the sin -burdened and sorrowful find rest and comfort and God's children ever a refuge find from the storm. "May those who during the coming years assemble here come in the spirit of Jesus of Nazareth and go out into this needy world bearing the Bread of Life for hungry souls. May there ever be abundant welcome here for all for whom Christ died. May every effort to uplift the fallen help the helpless- save the lost, find sympathy and aid. 29 "May we ever remember the needs of our own city our belc a .ountry and in the fulfillment of the command of the Savior, may we through our missionaries preach the Gospel to the uttermost part of the earth. May we didicate our children unto the service of God ; and help them by p e cept and example to nobler manhood and womanhood. As a tribute of g atitude and love we the members of this Church and the friends who have assisted us with the a £wal of these sacred purpose, do now in the love and fear of God, solemnly and reverently dedicate this house to the worship praise and glory of God in the nan me of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Unto Him that lo- ved us and washed us from our sins m His own blood and hath made up Kings and Priests unto God and His Father to Him be the gL v ar»d do- minion for ever and ever. Amen, ************ Stephen E Fisher Minister Carl Coivin and Mildred Seyster Assistants E, L Murdock Supt Bible School J H Kelley Director of Music Mrs WW Johnston Organist BUILDING COMMITTEE EL, Murdock Chairman Dr W M Honn See y and Treas Stephen E Fisher F B Vennum F K Robeson G E Amsbusy A L Vorhies Chas Hill Elias Pruit (End of Page) The church stronger than ever served its membership and the .ommunity as well, A minor tragedy before it howevei in a kittle less than three years after dedication. On January 12 1914 this building stood in gravf danger of being des troyed by fire, The alarm was turned in by Mr.McDamel, the janitor, at 5 12 a,m. and when the fire fighters reached the scene, it was found that fire had eaten its way from the basement to he attic of che as.g building Flames were rearing up through & shaft used to accomodate cables which operated the large disappearing door. Smoke was so dense hat h; fi emen had difficulty entering the building and could remain inside only a short time, They attached the file with two lines of hone and chem: cal appara- tus but l was after eight o clock before the fire was exc , nguished. The damage was estimated at % 000. The church was valued at ^SO.OOO and carried $35 000 insurance so the damage was completely covered Base ment rooms were badly damaged and e pews on both the mam floor and balconies were partially burned. The l was also much smoke and water jury. 30 n The fire apparently eliminated i n a closet near a grate in the North social room of the basement. Mr. Fisher attributed it to superheating of the bricks in the flue. There had been fire in the grate almost contin- ously for thirty-six hours prior to the outbreak. The building was soon repaired and the growing number of activities resumed. 31 Chapter 11 A Cooperative Church University Place Church now had grown to be a power in the community. It not only had a building which could house adequately its Sunday School and worship services but it had a building which was widely used by the university community and the twin cities. Since it was mid-way be tween the groups of churches in Champaign and Urbana it was often se lected as the place in which to hold inter -denominational meetings and rallies. Missionary Union meetings and community Religious Leadtish-p Training Schools were held here. When the State Sunday School Convention (Interdenominational) was held at the campus about 1919 the meetings of the children's workers were held in University Place Church and the wo- men of the church served a banquet to more than 400 religious workers. Mr. Fisher and his congregation were always generous in offering Their building and people liked o come to it. But University Place Church was Lsxt o^iv as a s&e-fcs because o£ its building, it had become a power in moral and civi leadership. Mr. Fisher, Mr.Vennum s the banker L.W.Williams of the U. of I. Co] lege of Education and others in the church were leaders in the cause of prohibition. In the days when local Option laws were on the books Mr. Fisher was an out- spoken and courageous leadei among those who fough the efforts and the 'schemes of the liquor forces. University Place Church was known for is interest in inter-denomina tional affairs of the community., It prided itself on having a large rep- resentation at all union meetings. Many of its teachers and workers en- rolled in Inter denominational Schools of Religious Education and Uni- versity Place supplied at least one teacher for about every school. A mong those who taught in the anion schools were A.W.Nolan, Mrs.L.W.Wil Hams W.S.Adams A„H. Lauchner and Mrs. George Dungan. The Women s Council and later the Christian Women s Fellowship in- variably had a large delegation attending meetings of United Church Wo- men and were hostesses many times. Women of University Place who have served as presidents of the Champaign -Urbana United Church Women are Mrs. George Dungan. Mrs. Lee Somers ; Mrs.M.L.Mosher and Mrs. L.L.Patterson, Men who gave leadership m the community's Churchmen's Council were: W.S.Adams Glen Chapman, George Dungan. O.L.Whalin and L.L.Patterson. Mr. Fisher was always a very gracious and thoughtful host both to groups and to individuals who visited his church. He seemed to know the right thing to say to make people feel happy. Many non=member friends of the church came to call Mr. Fisher Brother Fisher" as he was so commonly called by members of his own ongvega 3 ion. In fact University Place Church was often ^poke^ of as "Brother Fisher's Church." 3 2 Chapter 12 Helping Establish Webber Street Church of Christ During the period when University Place Church was growing rapidly in membership and enlarging its plant it was also thinking of local mis- sions. As early as 1909 members of University Place were interested in the establishment of a Christian church on the East side of Urbana. There was need for a church there because many children as well as adults who lived in the area had no easy access to Sunday School and worship s ervices. A University Place bulletin of October 24. 1909 lists a committee on "Urbana Missions." Members were G. E.Amsbury, A.L. Vorhies, S.A.Marshall, H.J.Cunningham and G.J.Crist. It was probably before this time that Oliver K.Doney who was choir- master in University Place Church in 1903 and a member of that church held an afternoon Sunday School in his home on East Main Street in Ur- bana for people of the neighborhood. E.L.Murdock of University Place and Charles F.WilliamSj a local resident of the area joined Mr.Doney in leadership of the school. Interest grew. A building lot was contracted for at Elm and Webber Streets. Through the energy and devotion of these leaders, the lot was paid for and a plain wooden "mission building" was built. Mrs. Bertha Sullivan Percival, a member of University Place Church remembers the early days of the mission quite well. She moved to East Urbana as a girl in 1.908 and attended Sunday School there on Sunday af- ternoons as well as University Place in the mornings . She became a church member in the little mission building in 1914 during an evangelistic meeting held by B.H.Lin/ille then pastor of St. Joseph Illinois Church of Christ. Mrs. Percival was pianist of the Webber Street Church for a number of years. She has some treasured pictures taken during these early days. Members of University Place Church gave valuable volunteer help in both the Sunday School and afternoon worship services. Among them were E.L.Murdock George R.Shawhan L.A.Boice, University Recorder: Dean CM. Thompson of the College of Commerce George T.Smith, retired missionary to China Mrs. George Kaufman Horace Mullikin and others. Rev.R.T.Hickerson who served as minister of the Webber Street Church for two periods, stated that the church organization was formed on Sept. 19, 1915. Mr. Amos Wright a member of the first church board told of a visit which this board made to a board meeting of University Place Church. Here the board of the new church was given help and encouragement as well as ideas about how to conduct church business affairs. Tobias L. Cummins was the first minister. He was followed by Guy Lewis Zerby who served from June 17 1917 to his. death October 23 1918. 33 Chapter 13 The Church Oflice On the southwest cornet of the seond floo- f the enlarged University Plate Church was the church office with a large study adjoining. The study was a nice airy room lined with bookshelves Mere Mr. Fisher prepared his sermons and held personal onferen.es. For a time he tried to ans wer the two telephones and take care of the church records in the office. But with the rapid growth of the congregation it became necessary for him to have a secretary. Miss Vira Richards was employed in 1913 and gradually made a large place for herself in University Place Church. Her vivacity and untiring energy were an inspiration and impelling force be- hind projects in all department; of the church which she served for a period of 35 years. When she came to the church the office boasted of a pigeon-hole desk a table a typewriter and a rotary mimeograph machine. Mr. Fisher him- self, taught her to keep the church roll and to use the mimeograph. Quite often, batches of several hundred letters had to be folded by hand. Sometimes Mr 5 Fisher's son Richard and his little sweetheart Lenore Eversole spent their spare time folding and stuffing letters. But as time went on new modern equipment was added. There were new steel files addressograph and adding machines- A local church weekly paper known as The Messenger was started in 1926. This was printed by professional printers but had to be folded In the hurch office. Groups of volunteer helpers worked at this task ea; h week, Mrs. W. S. Adams was leader of these groups for a long time. At last a folding machine was purchased. This speeded the work. With the founding of the Illinois Disciples Foundation in 1916 the secretarial load became heavier. By-the hour student help was introduced at this time. Miss Martha Righter (Mrs, rLB = Wil Iman) was an efficient and delightful helper. In 1922 the load was increased because Mr. Fisher was President of the International Convention of Disciples of Christ. The heaviest load of all came after the disastrous church fire of 1932. The church had no building and no money to hire secretaries, A num- ber of girls volunteered to help during the crisis. Some of these stayed on as paid employees. Among them were Edna Dunkle Ruby Slough and Delo~ res Smith Blaisdell. The new 1936 building provided nice secretarial offices alongside the pastor s office and study. Miss Marybelle Brown was an efficient secre- tary in the new building serving under both Mr. Fisher and Mr.Jarman. With the great demand tor secretaries at Chanute Air Base and at the rapidly growing university it became e: , difficult to find office help. A number of young wives of service men were employed but even though their work was very a ceptable, they had to move along to other parts of the country. 34 (&Wn £. I'^Pici^vrL and C'^te fl s &&fA, , aA> I.H.CoMh** Ch/un/Me C.ltiAM&i 34a *> : \ JiVi-k-k Sclrta uwMC-i W^IW^yU fl ^u/rvc-a/n, *^ Ro/6on B o^ye- ll,0-&. Bu/fr© 8fe&om Left: 3fi« P-VyrriaA/y, S-efco/i/t- to*, •■:>. The church found it advisable to supply and use much modern office e- quipment. In order to print The Messenger and the church bulletin, a varityper and Multilith were purchased. Then Mr.Jarman with only a lit- tle help and sometimes, no help, printed these himself. The present secretaries are Mrs. John Miller and Mrs. Jess Willis. 35 Chapter 14 Work of the Women From the time women cleaned kerosene lamps in the old White Street Church to the present day many loyal, devoted women have given hours and hours of physical labor to the work of their church. The women of the early church organized themselves into a Ladies Aid Society and fpund ways to earn money for incidental expenses of the building. Mrs.F.B.Ven- num was President of the Ladies Aid Society in 1903 when the church was built on Wright Street and Springfield Avenue. The women were very happy with the new kitchen and dining room. Mrs.Shawhan Mrs.Theo Skinner, Mrs. Sophie Thomas and others were good kitchen help and Mrs. Tom Smith was the efficient manager of the dining room for many years. Since there were few large dining halls near the campus in the early days, the women had many opportunities to serve groups attending meetings on the campus. Every Fall over a period of years they served meals as well as a spec- ial banquet to the Illinois Public School teache when they held their annual conferences on the campus. One year, the women held a bazaar in connection with the teacher's conference. The experiment was very successful and so the bazaar feature was repeated. Now after many years the holding of a bazaar in the Au tumn has come to be a tradition in University Place Christian Church. During the year the women made aprons dresser scarfs pillow cases quilts, baby clothes pot holders, rag dolls, Christmas decorations and a host of other attractive articles in preparation for the bazaar to come in November. Most of these items were made by the women in group meetings held at the church or in homes of members. On the day set for the bazaar the hand-made articles were attractive- ly displayed in booths and offered for sale to the crowds of people who came to see, to buy and to enjoy the chicken-pie dinner which was served on bazaar day. Sometimes a brief program of demonstration was given. One year, Mrs. Tom Smith demonstrated the use of the spinning wheel. The women have worked hard and contributed generous amounts of money in support of the building programs which the church has had underway al= most continously. This not only benefited the building fund but it ce- mented many friendships among the women. About 1915, Mrs. T.O.Henderson became President of the Ladies Aid Soci ety and was the faithful and efficient leader of women' s activities for more than twenty years. Under Mrs. Henderson s leadership, the name of the organization was changed from Ladies' Aid Society to Women's Council. The Women s Council wa; later called Christian Women s Fellowship. Under Mrs .Henderson the work of Women s Council was divided into five groups according to areas of the twin cities. There were three 30 f. 5« H,. Mooe'y. fiVv&. ^o/n/i-e'u C a kmAXh I .i onl'j ad wag ly attended 1930 i was }■ '.i.ded to make the general meeting an all day affair with a covered dish luncheon at the church. The Groups took turns acti stesses and furnishing the program. The attendance grew larger and the women of the church became better acquainted. A Council Library started. This library was one of wholesome, interesting books which would appeal to women who had not become accustomed to reading the m- study books and more difficult religious volumes. It was v<-ry popu and worthwhile. Sometime between 1925 and 1930. Mrs. Stephen J.Corey, with her chil dren lived in Urbana while Mr. Corey made a world 'our in the interests of the United Christian Missionary Society. Mrs. Corey in her superbly friendly way did a great deal to show the women of the church the value of friendly and organized calling. When the women learned this, they liked it. From then on. calling was stressed. But money-making was not forgotten. Before the old church burned many, many meals dinners suppers, big and little were served. The old low-ceiling basement could accomodate more than 400 people at a meal. In spite of the poor ventilation the occasions were enjoyable. For mar N years the women made between SI 000 and $1 500. This was in a day when that much money bought a surprising number of tables chairs and carpets. Mrs. Arthur Leasure and Mrs. Bertha Maxson (sisters) were capable treasur- ers of the Women's Council for many years. Over a period of 40 years, the Ladies Aid and the Women's Council made and canned the grape juice which was used in the Communion service throughout the year. This was a big task but one of lore. The task which went along with this-that of preparing the loaf for the Lord's Supper was one which required personal faithful, untiring devotion. It is with a feeling of respect and awe that we make the statement that Mrs. George R.Sjiawhan. a charter member carried on this work week by week, for more than twenty years. Only approaching blindness caused her to give up the task. Then, Mrs . Erman E.Higgins gave her hand to this work for a period of about ten years. Although some people were reluctant to accept it the time came when commercial communion loaf was used. A number of years later, bottled grape juice was purchased for use on the communion table. 37 We have no record that, even in the very early days of our church the men ever made any complaints about women being active in various church duties, as was the practice among men of some churches. Mrs. Page, wife of the first minister, once told an incident which occured in the old White Street Church. Just as communion was to be served there was a nearby fire alarm. All the men of the congregation ran to the fire, el- ders, deacons preacher and all. The women sat there not knowing what to do. Mrs. Page and Mrs.Hizerodt conferred in whispers and decided to admin- ister the communion, which they did. There is no record of any complaint from the men. 38 fiViA \me whi * h p 1 > o \- of •■ h spiritual worth is the D aconesses. All through th« hi story of o. church women hid been designated as deaconesses iiom time to time by the minis ter oi the church board. These women cared for the communion able or bore other specific responsibii icies . Bur in 19 35 the Church Board voted to present a slate of women s names for the election of six Deacon ess83 at the annual church ele tion. These Deaconesses were ele< ted that ye a i ; Mrs- M.J FJuck Mrs.T H< nd ■ Mrs . Ar * hui Leasure Mrs.Har, id H.Mit h I M ss Edith Millei .\ir s.M .1 Mosher Th next year 1936 Miss Amy Beach and Mrs Es tell a Busey were e lected for hre^ yea- tew- . Mi 5. M.J Fluck and Miss Miller retired. Thus a list of ..i" ras retain d. L937 was voted b the Church Board to work toward a membership of 24 Deaconesses. Th =>ext new members elected that year were Edward Busey Mi i.L.C.Cox Mrs . Geo i ge H. Dungan Mrs.L,G.Hufl Mrs. Maui ice Skelton Mrs. L.W.Williams A first the Deaconesses did a grea 1 deal of thinks.' g about whar theii place in the church should be. There was always opportunity to serve meals. The Choir wanted their robes repaired. Church housekeeping duties were suggested. But some thought that the church needed a group of women who would take the responsibility of visiting the aged the sick and the troubled and who would be able to say that the church was praying for their welfare. Under the leadership of Mrs J,.. W.Williams the Deaconesses decided to -.urn aside from taking responsibility as a group for suppers and choir robes. They determined to consecrate themselves the spiritual uplift of the church. To this end, the Deaconess*^ hare planned their monthly programs with the aim of making themselves into better informed and more spiritually minded Christians. They have stud- »d hurch history church organization, prayer and worship. The Deaconesses visited the women of Garwood Home two or three times a ear for several years. They conducted simply religious s "ices using 41 hymns which were favorites of he women, Mrs. Bon Kirt Mrs, Clayton Daugherty and Mrs.H.H.Mitcbe 1J were especially interested in this work. Some of the women who have rved as chairman of Deaconesses were Mrs. T.O. Henderson Mrs.M.L.Mosher Mrs. Arthur Leasure Mrs. Floyd Locke Mrs. Paul Peach Mrs. Ralph Gher Mrs. Clayton Daugherty Mrs. Paul Utterback Mrs. Paul Johnston Mrs. J, R.Colbert Mrs, Stanley C.S^i'h Mrs.Estella Busey Mr s.Charles Mc Bride Mrs. Russell Duncan Since 1935 Deaconesses haf r- .* s« .* EVERY-Mt f »S- Mm. vHfVERsrrr p /16oi>e 77ie ^rst Every Member Canvas" was organized by Dean Charles Thompson Fie is in the second row just above the letter "V"- Below One of the Sunday School classes for women students about 1919 known as the Alpha Omega Class «*■ SI % ■■ /4 Sunday School Class of young couples in about 19 22 Miss Edna Dunkle is third from the left in the top row Mrs Clyde Fisher is sixth from the left in the second row The Alpha Omega Class with the teacher l.lr Boyce about 1921, 1926-School in charge of Religious Education Committee Average Attendance - 516 Offering - S19.54 High Attendance May 9 760 Offering 31.01 Low Attendance Dec. 26, 268 Offering 38.66 1927 -Average Attendance 526 Offering 20.03 High Attendance Oct. 2, 933 Offering 52.90 Low Attendance Aug. 28, 278 Offering 12.15 1928-Average Attendance 485 High Attendance April 1, 672 Offering 34.98 Low Attendance Jan. 1, 177 (cold)Offering 11.07 The highest Children's Day offering for Foriegn Missions during this period was $207.66 in 1925; the lowest was $134.85 in 1927. These records show that the Cradle Roll Department of three and four year old children was organized October 11.1925 with six pupils in atten- dance. This department was instituted by Mrs. Elmer Harris under whose loving leadership it grew into a sizeable department. Missionary instruction was given in the children's departments once a month in the period just prior to 1932. For several years, this was un- der the direction of Mrs. George Dungan. A great deal of handwork was done in connection with the study of mission lands. Department superintendents and teachers studied the World Call and other materials to gain hints for this work. Mission schools ; hospitals,, native homes and important scenic spots were portrayed by various kinds of handwork to make mission work seem real to the children. Each department in the elementary divi- sion worked to make an exhibit which was presented to parents and other church people at Open House following Children s Day programs. In 1926, the affairs of the Sunday School were given over to a Commit tee on Religious Education. The first committee was appointed by Mr. Fish- er. Later, members were elected to the committee at the annual business meeting of the church. Some persons who served a number of years on this committee arei Dr. L. W. Wil 1 iams. Principal of University High School; Dr. A.W.Nolan of the College of Education Dr. George H. Dungan of the Col- lege of Agriculture; Mr. W.S.Adams of the College of Commerce; Mrs. George Dungan, Mrs. M.L.Mosher Mrs. Mabel Carlock, student pastor; Miss Amy Beach, teacher in Champaign High School and A.H. Lauchner, Principal of Thornburn Junior High School. Miss Ida Mae Irvin was paid Director of Religious Education for one year (1927). In 1930 W.S.Adams was employed as Associate to Mr. Fisher to give particular attention to the work of the Sunday School. He was chosen for this position because previously he had done unusually fine work as teacher and leader of student young people. Mrs. Adams, too served very successfully as superintendent of the Primary Department. The Adams worked at this assignment very much as a team. Church folks 45 were very happy to have them employe of the national financial depression available for this work. Some Sunday School workers who we iods in the history of our school up Cradle Roll Mrs.Vinnie Vennum Johnston Mrs . G. A. Swenson Mrs. Fred S.Brown Beginners Mrs.A.G.Pippit Mrs. A. S. Fee Mrs. Edith Dunlap Mrs.M. T.Trimble Mrs.Ora Mittan Primary Mrs.S.E. Fisher Mrs. S.Hamlin Mrs.O. S. Evans Miss Pearl Young Mrs.Haleene Hook Mrs.W. S. Adams Junior Miss Maude Stipp Mrs. Ruth Richards Taylor Miss Lulu Meyers Mrs. Bertha Maxson Miss Edith Miller Orin Schumaker Intermediates Mrs.W.M.Honn Mrs.E.L.Murdock Mrs . F. A. Jorgensen Miss Adelaide McCarty Mrs. Nona Wisegarver Mr. and Mrs. Harold Wascher Senior Walter Jennings Frank Beach Donald Brownfield Evelyn Weber Community Young People Miss Faye Provines Miss Amy Beach d by the church but with the coming the necessary funds were no longer re especially faithful for long per- to 1932 are listed below: Mrs. George Dungan Mrs. Louise Schooley Mrs. Clayton Daugherty Mrs. Stanley Smith Miss Vora Mosher Mrs. Grace Chamberlain Johnson Miss Mary Burk Miss Noble Rogers Mrs. Clarence Fuqua Mrs. J. R.Colbert Mrs. Lucille Switzer Ruby Slough Meryl Johnson Mrs. Ruth Smith Jones Mr s.Roy Slough Thomas Garvin Mr. and Mrs.M. J. Fluck Mrs. Hugh Brownfield Mrs. B.L. Kirk Stanley Smith Mrs.M. Lo Mosher Mrs. Maude Corbridge Robert Maxson Grace Tedford Mrs o Lee Somers 46 Student Young People Mrs. Mabel Car lock R.E.Hie; ^nymus A.W.Nolan W.S.Adams George H.Dungan Adult George R.Shawhan B.L.Kirk J.H.Eversole L.W.Williams George Skelton M.L.Mosher N.B.Garver J.R.Colbert Mrs. Eva Pedro A.hLLauchner Mrs. Daisy Nesbit Miss Rube Ekbom has been the faithful, efficient secretary of the Sun- day School for many years. She comes earl> on Sunday morning and quite often stays until mid-afternoon in order to finish her records. Miss Ruby Wiley has been her faithful helper for a long period. 47 Chapter 18 Illinois Disciples' Foundation About 1909 in response to a statement of the need by Reverend S.E. Fisher, the Illinois Christian Missionary Society, under the leadership of State Secretary, J.Fred Jones, recognized that the task of giving Christian oversight to the constantly increasing number of students of the University of Illinois was more than a local responsibility. The So ciety made an appropriation of $500 per year to employ student helpers to assist the pastor of University Place Christian Church. This help con- tinued for several years. Carl Colvin and Mildred Seyster (Sorensen) were the first student as- sistants employed under this arrangement. They gave part time help by calling on Christian Church students and helping with social activities. Each re eived $25 a month. This amount seemed large in that day. Mr. Col- vin said this made it possible for him to complete his university educa- tion. Students who worked during the early years before or at the time the organization was incorporated were; Carl Colvin 1910-11-12 Mildred Seyster 1910-11-12 Frank Stipp 1912-13 Amy Beach 1913-14 Marrie Sense 1914-15 Paul Leach 1914-15 * Verna Butzer 1915-16 Bert Hedges 1915-16 * Park Douglas 1916-17 Vera Edds 1916-1$ *These dates are given as approximate. From the beginning of his ministry at University Place Church, Mr. Fisher gave much time and thought to the needs of the students. Mr. Thomas Bondurant of Deland suggested to him early in his ministry the need for a corporation to receive funds from Christians throughout the State to be used in the work with the students. When Mr. Bondurant died in 1905 his will provided a fund for such a purpose, with Eureka College named as the trustee since there was no corporation at the campus to act in this capacity. One day Brother Fisher and Dr. James Baker, pastor of the Trinity Methodist Church, were playing golf together, and while resting under a tree between holes, Brother Fisher told Dr, Baker of the suggestion of Mr. Bondurant. Acting on this suggestion Dr. Baker began the work to es- tablish such a corporation for the Methodists. With the skill in organi zation native to the Methodists the plan was rapidly completed and the Wesley Foundation was incorporated in 1913, the first such Foundation to be established in America. Farsighted men in Disciples work in Illinois saw the need of provi ding an organization through which work with Christian Church students could be carried on more effectively and on a more stable basis. Some leaders who gave careful study to the Foundation idea were H.H.Peters, 46 State Secretary of the Illinois Christian Missionary Society; L.O.Lehman. President of Eureka College; Dr.R.E.Hieronymus, Community Advisor at the ■University of Illinois and former president of Eureka College; and Ste- phen E.Fisher, pastor of University Place Church. Under the direction of H.H.Peters, the Illinois Disciples Foundation was organized and incorpo- rated April 5, 1916. This and the Wesley Foundation, under the guidance of Dr. Baker, were among the first of what has come to be numerous reli- gious foundations near the University of Illinois campus. The stated object of the Illinois Disciples Foundation is: (1) The teaching of the principles of the Christian religion; (2) to provide a wholesome center for student life; (3) the cooperation with other similar agencies in the cultivation of the moral and spiritual life; (4) the extending of such activities as exigenciesarise and opportuni- ties offer. One Sunday morning soon after the founding meeting, Dr.R.E.Hieronymus told the University Place worship service audience of the great step which had been taken in the Christian work among students. He told why the name, Illinois Disciples' Foundation, was chosen and spoke enthusias- tically of the prospects of great achievements in the future. He even drew a word picture of a Foundation building. Church members were very happy in hearing these plans. Among the members of the Board of Trustees of the Illinois Disciples Foundation in the earlier years were: John Golden Charles M.Thompson F.J. Parr S.E.Fisher George R. Trenchard R.E.Hieronymus H.H.Peters F.B.Vennum A.B.Dennis Mrs. El la Seass Stewart Mrs. Anna B. Col grove Campbell Hoi ton Mrs. Wm. H.Hart Mrs. C.U. Col lis W.F.Rothenburger A.W.Nolan When the Illinois Disciples Foundation was organized in 1916, Mr, Fish er began 32 years of service as Director and Chairman of the Board of Trustees. The office housed in University Place Church on Wright St., and during the first years, only part-time assistants were employed. Mr. Fisher carried the responsibility of raising funds from church and friends. Two Promotional Secretaries were active throughout the state. Miss Luceba Miner served from 1916 to 1925 and L.J. Lewis from 1925 to 1934. Funds were solicited for current expenses and also for a building fund. Some annuity contracts were secured during this period. About 1920 two full time paid assistants came to the staff. They 49 were Miss Jeanette Benson and E. J.Muffley both of whom did highly eff- ective work for a number of years. During this time there were four and sometimes five student Sunday School classes with an average total at- tendance of about 100. George Dungan taught freshmen boys and Mrs. Dun- gan, the freshmen girls. Upper classmen were taught by R. E.Hieronymus A.W.Nolan Ernest Langford and Walter Adams. Victor Ferrall was the pop- ular leader of a graduate group. Miss Benson and Mr.MufTley made many calls upon students who had expressed preferance for the Christian Church on their university enrollment blanks. Well planned parties were held, usually Friday nights. There was fun and good cheer around the fire- place in the basement of old University Place Church. Many times, Mr. and Mrs. Fisher opened their home at 507 E.Daniel Street for more for- mal occasions. About 1922 3 Miss Pauline Wisegarver a returned mission- ary from China, worked with student girls for a time. She was the daugh- ter of Mr. and Mrs. Smith Wisegarver of Champaign active members of the church. Other student assistants who worked in the old church included Horace Mullikin, Cyril Drenian, Floyd Smith LeVon Patterson^ Victor Ferral and Vernon Christman. In the late 1920' s, Mrs. Mabel R.Carlock became Student Secretary and directed the work of young assistants for several years. Some time previ- ous to this, Mrs, Carl ock had served a short time as chaperone of Bethany Circle. She was a woman of education t poise and dignity, and possessed a marked ability to become acquainted with students from all over the state. She prided herself on knowing some person in or fact about, each home town. Mrs.Carlock established the Thursday Friendly which was a mid- week social period held in the afternoon at 4 o'clock and attended by many Christian Church students. Mrs.Carlock counseled with students and endeared herself to scores who still remember her as "Aunt Mabel." Mrs.Carlock left the foundation work in 1939. Some student assistants who worked with her were Vernon Christman. Milo Snider, Max D. Snider, Dorothy Segur and Byron Mabie. The following benediction song was introduced by Mrs.Carlock. It was used by student groups and other groups as well for many years; Oh. dear old University Place, Thou art a shrine the years to grace, And all the love we bear to thee s A memory fair will ever be. We pledge ourselves to nobler deeds, Inspired by Him who ever leads, And guides us on our upward way, By His example every day. 50 The fragrance of our friendship sweet, Is shed around us as we meet, Oh, Dear old Uni-Place we pray, That we may cherish thee alway. In 1922 s Dr. Frank Coop of London, England was employed to teach cour- ses in religion for university credit. Dr. Coop's father was a leader a- mong Churches of Christ of England and his father-in-law was William Rem- fry Hunt, one time missionary to China. Dr.Hieronymus and others on the committee who employed Dr. Coop, felt that he was well fitted to represent the total brotherhood. A good library was bought and assembled and oppor- tunities seemed great, but Dr. Coop soon became discouraged. After a year he was succeeded by William V.Rosan who also taught one year. Later, Rus- sell Osgood was student pastor for one year. During the depression years, Dr. W. A.Goodel 1 was employed jointly with Wesley Foundation. From the Fall of 1948 when W.J.Jarman came to Champaign as pastor of University Place Church and Director of Illinois Disciples Foundation, religious education courses for University credit have been available in our Foundation to our own students and to any others who cared to enroll. Mr.Jarman, whose qualifications were recognized by the University of Il- linois has taught these courses, assisted by L.L.Bennett from 1948 to 1952 and by Lyle Sel lards during 1955 and 1956. Both of these assistants had recognized qualifications. Full-time paid workers in the Foundation following Mrs. Mabel Car lock were: 1939 - 40 Byron Mabie 1940-41-42 Robert L.Mosher 1942 -43 Mildred Hahn 1943 - 44 Lelia Hollingworth 1944 - 45 Mrs. Hi Ida Ruth Hippensteele 1945-46-47 Rev. Norma C.Brown 1947 - 48 Sigel C.Davis 1948-49-50-51-52 Rev. Lawrence L.Bennett 1952-53-54 Rev.Rabon Rose 1954 - 55 None 1955 - Rev. Lyle D.Sellards Sometime during the early days, students in Illinois Disciples Founda- tion formed themselves into a working unit known as The Student Cabinet un- der which various committees functioned. Fol lowing is a list of presidents of the cabinet since the school year 1928-1929; Presidents of Student Cabinet 1928-29 Lindley Picket^, son of C.L.Pickett, missionary 1929-30 Helen Sapulding, Pontiac 51 UfllVEhSliY OF IUMWS 1930-31 Arthur M. Mosher. Urbana 1931-32 Melvin Culp 1932-33 Vernon Christman 1933-34 Edward R.Griesheimer 1934-35 Ralph V.Green 1935-36 Charles McDonald, Grad, Student , Arthur 1936-37 William E.Hall Centralia 1937-38 Howard Parish, Harris town 1938-Fall -Robert Straw, Dixon Note. At this point terms of office were changed to correspond with the calendar year. 1939-Spring - Roy Shirley, Havana 1939 - Fall - Donald Overman 1940-Spring - Burdette Lutz 1941 «■ James Hampton, Mechanicsburg 1942 t- Charles Emile Waterman, Danville 1943-Spring - Kenneth Gorden Blue Mound 1943 - Fall - Lelia Hollandsworth (Wilson) 1944 - Lola Clark, Mt. Sterling 1945 - Marjorie Bean, Urbana 1946 - Sigel Davis, -Flora 1947 - Henry Hoi zc law, Lawrence, Kansas 1948-Spring - Eruce Mosher, Cuba 1948 - Fall - Jack Albrecht, Urbana 1949 - Tom Shepherd, Carbondale 1950 - Roll in Mosher, Cuba 1951 - Roy Miller, Ogden 1952 - Mary Lee Hill, Golden 1953 - David Shanks, Car lock 1954 - Donald Lanier, Shelbyville 1955 - Robert Emmons, Decatur 1956 - William Mavity ; Peoria Note During 1941 and 1942 Charles B.Barr and George Nichols com- piled detailed attendance records which are filed in the Foun- dation office. Illinois Disciples' Foundation Students who went into Full Time Chris- tian Service are Frank V.Stipp missionary in Philippines, minister in California Minnie Vautrin Missionary in China Harriet Laflerty Wilhelma Smith (Jaggard) , Missionary in Belgian Congo Arthur F. Weaver, minister in Illinois and Indiana Chaplain 52 Pauline Wisegarver missionary in China Helen F. Spaulding. reli^ous education National Council of Churche Arthur T. Mosher, missionary in India, nternati aal educ Wil liam D.Hall , Missionary in India Education U.C.M.S. Mary Lou Hall (Mrs. William D. ) missionary in India Clyde Mosher, minister in Iowa Charles Barr minister in Kansas Pruce Mosher Religion on radio Des Moines, Iowa Roy Miller student missionary Hazel Green, Kentucky Pauline Varner (Mrs. Roy Miller) missionary candidate Thomas Shepherd minister in West Virginia Roll in Mosher, Church Architect U.C.M.S. Dallas Roland student minister in Iowa Clayton Daugnerty Jr. Minister in Cincinnati Dean Eottrell Baiciurant Fund Thomas E.Bondurant of Del and Illincis ; among other large gifts for Missionary anc Educational Work, made a bequest of ^12.000 as a Trust Fund to the Trustees of Eureka College, the proceeds of which are to be used "annually and forever" for the promotion of the Christian Religion at the University of Illinois, chiefly through lectures. Since the organ- ization of the Illinois Disciples Foundation, it has cooperated with the college by directing these activities. Dr ,R. E.fiieronymus furnished the following list of noted men who gave from one to six lectures each here at the University under the sponsor- ship of this fund in the early days. The address at the time they partic- ipated in the Bondurant Lectureship is also she sn. Willet. Herbert L. Chicago. Illinois Lhamon, W.J, Columbia Me. , Drury College Ainslie Peter Baltimore Ohio Garrison J.H. St. Louis, Missouri Combs, George H. Kansas City, Missouri Forrest. W.M. University of Virginia, Charlottesville Y.MX.A. Calcutta, India Prichard. H.O. Indianapolis Indiana Jones, Edgar DeWitt Blocm-ngton Illinois Harrison, Mrs. Ida W. Lexington Kentucky Philputt, A.E. [ndianapolis, Indiana Campbell George A. St. Louis Missouri Pontius M.L. Jacksonville Illinois McLean A. Cincinnati Ohio Lehman L.O, Eureka. Illinois 53 Holmes, Arthur Drake University. Des Moines, Iowa Ames, Edward Scribner Chicago Illinois Idleman, Finis New York New York Paul, C.T. Indianapolis Indiana Burnham, Fred W. St. Louis Missouri Cory, A.E. Cincinnati, Ohio In later years, when the interest from the Bondurant Fund could not accomplish as much as in former years lecturers were brought to the stu dents of the Foundation by this lectureship from time to time only as funds were available. These lecturers often appeared as speakers for the annual student banquets or other special occasions. 54 Above: M Colbert teaching Golden Circle Class Below The Sunday School teache s and officers in 192U oa-e Qcxfxi-ea Oi/wy&e Ofcaa^v on friaty 1 3 135 KIN Jx>a Jxims'u Roy. tiW&feu (Pou^f/une UbVrte^) **bme of -tfi-e c\>uncl»taxm r -£> mm/&Wi/& -and m\A&\xyrvtf\A?Q&> i V f Chapter 19 Bethany Circle And Other Organizations Sponsored By The Foundation ' Even before the Illinois Disciples Foundation was organized, two stu- dent organizations came into being under the sponsorship of Mr. Fisher and his student assistants. A girls' organization, known as BETHANY CIRCLE, was founded February 9,1911 under the leadership of Mildred Seys- ter (Sorenson). The first president was Erna Reller and the first secre- tary was Minnie Vautrin who later went to China and became one of the best known missionaries of the Disciples of Christ. The girls organized for the purpose of promoting friendship among girls who had come to the University from Christian Church homes. Atten- tion was given to church attendance and to wholesome social life. In the Fall of 1916 ; the girls of this circle started living together in a campus home known as Bethany Circle House, at 607 East John Street. The Foundation Board gave a friendly oversight to Bethany Circle but the house was intended to be self-supporting. Mrs. Sarah Inghram (McBee) was the first chaperone. In 1920 Bethany Circle moved to 1306 West Spring- field in Urbana. Here. Mrs. Mabel R. Car lock served as chaperone for three years and a Mrs. Waterman for at least one year. The house was popular and was kept filled with Christian Church girls. There were also girls who belonged to Bethany Circle but who lived at their own homes in the twin cities or in other rooming houses. The Circle grew large and did very effective work among Christian Church women students. The Foundation relinquished all financial responsibility for Bethany Circle in 1924. This it is recorded, was in accordance with what other foundations on the Illinois campus were doing in regard to their student girls' organizations. From then on the organization was on its own. How- ever, members of University Place Church continued to serve as members of the Bethany Circle advisory board. Among them were Rev. and Mrs=S.E. Fisher, Mrs. A. D. Fee. Prof .A. W.Nolan, Mrs .0.0. Stanley, Mrs. Wm.M.Honn. Mrs. T.D.Wilson, Mrs.L.C.Cox and Mrs . E.M. Rhodes. Soon after Bethany Circle was founded at the University of Illinois, student girls of other universities became interested in the movement. Mrs. Anna R.Atwater of the national office of Christian Woman's Board of Missions oTered encouragement and leadership in founding other circles. Chapters were formed at Manhattan. Kansas, Columbia Missouri, Ann Arbor. Michigan and at four other schools outside of Illinois. National conven- tions were held and a magazine called THE RADIUS.was started in May, 1918. A disagreement arose among the chapters as to whether or not Bethany Circle should be a campus house organization. Some persons thought a house would provide a more convenient center for activities than the 55 church building Others felt that a house organization would ; in time become much like a closed sorority. Illinois Chapter held out against all the others for a house organization. In 1924, the Illinois chapter of Bethany Circle withdrew from the group of eight chapters, but retained the name Bethany Circle. The others took the name. Kappa Beta. In 1925, the Illinois chapter purchased a house on the corner of Mathews Avenue and Oregon Street. The great depression came before the house was free of debt and the girls could not keep up their payments. The house and furniture were sold. However, the Circle rented different houses for a home during a few more years. Then Bethany Circle ceased to be at the University of Illinois but it still lives in the hearts of many members. A beloved chaperone during the years of struggle was Mrs. Anna Grove who later became a chaperone in university residence houses. Some leaders in Bethany Circle were Vera Edda Rachel Griffith (Willey) Mattie Sense Dorothy Smith Amy Beach Ruth Higgins (Shiveley) Jeanette Benson Mary Howe (Butler) Maude Stipp (Crouch) Louise Baker (Land) Blanch Stipp (Beach) Helen Duval 1 Wilhelma Smith (Jaggard) Margaret Waggoner (Thorns) Ruth and Adell Funk Mildred Daniels (Patterson) Golda and Opal Rhodes Bernelda Moyer (Clem) Marie Bennett Betty Kenyon Lulu Jones (Skelton) Orpha Hair Sara Fisher Lucy Coe Lucile Biglow (Pollard) Ruth Mosher (Brown) Marie Wallin Vora Mosher (Straw) Mary Fee Men's Organizations An attempt was also made to sponsor housing for a group of men stu- dents who came from Christian Church homes. Illus was organized a short time after Bethany Circle. This group soon joined a fraternity. Later Pi Pi Rho was founded. Many membership and financial problems were en- countered and the Foundation decided it would no longer attempt to spon- sor house groups for men. The XII In 1929, a group of students in the Foundation, after much discussion, decided to organize an honor society which would year after year, hon- or those students who had done outstanding work in foundation activi- ties. Mrs. Carl ock and Mr. Fisher were asked to name three worthy members who in turn would select nine others who -would make up twelve, to be 56 Dr, George Dungan accompanied Harry Fonger to a meeting in the Philippines to witness a presentation of a new translation of the Bible to the President. Ramon Magsaysay. Miss Fviartha Bateman, our link missionary in the Congo, is shown at her station with some visitors. Friendship Mission, Asuaeidn, Paraguay. > Betty and Ray help povmd com at a friend's house. On- church has been fortunate in having many prominent Disciples appear in our meetings and speak from our pulpit J^i/eQ. QetoCd, ihvafo '3-ecm 10. fitfvri-ett 1 ?W-temcyue :\J-favC^e C a Atn/tA Radon fio&e Fo- / f>evt c3oEmxia Z)r Tobias Dr Cook and Miss Ward have all spoken in ow* church filcte Ijofto ISatci Qa^neft. tit Goon- recognized on the first honor plaque. The fir ,-_,<. three weie Helen Spaul - ding, Lindley Pickett and Ed Griesheimer. On May s 9 1929 th~ plaque was unveiled by George K Ehingan and these honorees presented Helen Spaul ding Victor Ferral 1 Lindley Pickett Winfred Harbison Ed Griesheimer Princess Hill Pratt Cortelyou Al /in Hofer Louise Cramer Georgine MacDonaid Helen Duval 1 Early Presidents of The XII were 1929-30 - Ed Griesheimer 1930-31 - James Anderson 1931-32 - Joseph Lowther 1932-33 - Ralph Green 1933-34 - Lucy Coe 1934-35 - Milo Snider Students were honored by The XII a number of years and plaques hung all about the Foundation office. After a time students grew weary with such honors. Some said it was hard to be fair, others said there was opportunity for jealousy and still others said there were too few wor- thy students to honor. The XII ceased to be, 57 Chapter 20 Community Young People And Youth In the early days of University Place Christian Church, the attendance of young people at Sunday School was given more emphasis than the youth meetings on Sunday evening. However, even from the days of the White Street Church, there were periods when a Christian Endeavor Society was quite strong and well attended. In those early days, flke community young people and the students were together in the same meeting. After paid workers were employed to supervise the programs of stu- dents, the interests of students were emphasized and the community young people who were not in the university were at some disadvantage. They often did not feel at home among the students and of course, were not in- terested in discussions of student problems and activities. A large part of the community high school youth after graduation went to the university and became a part of the student group at the church. This left only a few of the relatively mature community young people to be leaders among the oncoming "high schoolers." The success of the community young peoples' meetings depended upon whether or not there could be enlisted a capable and somewhat mature young person to lead the youth enrolled in the High School. A graph of the strength of our community young people and youth work over the years would show many ups and downs. A good leader would serve for a time, then leave for one reason or another. It might be some time before $**- other leader could be found. At such times, the work almost dwindled out entirely. One of the longest periods of strength was under the leadership of Miss Mary Garvin, a devoted Christian woman who lived in Champaign near the church. She began her work about 1915. Among those who may remember her with gratitude are Sarah Fisher, Willa Hamlin Swearingen, Iva Hamlin, Lucille Harris Tappin, Ruth Higgins Shiveley, Norris Higgins, Ilene Lea- sure Hopkins, Harriet Beach Spencer, Shirley Engle, Mary Thompson, Le- nore Eversole Fisher, Mildred Eversold Monaghan, Richard and Robert Fi- sher, Esther Kaufman, Wesa Dale Garrabrant, and Earl Beem. The Illinois State Christian Endeavor Convention was held in Universi- ty Place Church in 1922 with Miss Sarah Fisher, State President, presiding. Somewhat later, the community youth of the church became interested in attending summer conferences on the Eureka College campus. In order to get money to pay expenses, the young folks sometimes served suppers, had paper drives, etc., |o earn money. Other years, the church paid half of the expenses and the individual or ||he parents paid the other half. Transportation was furnished by church members individually. Upon their 58 Student* singing about the piano John Gill and Alice Stevenson are at the keyboard JOoimxL $wmfe> JDatKxi UtjftA&ey Vime^v I^o^uien^-^ o£ -tfte S»A Hnl 11 "{faun Btjalt Inn? tytftatb tfjg H ct* Q3 3 • oc& ct»c O p I* 3£ O tJ ^ CD ct H» O ct O ** ~.° CD CO Ct H» * CD CC O -•» ^ i-" 3 ►* n return, these young people often made reports at a Sunday morning wor- ship service. Some of the enthusiastic conference goers were June Smith, Rot Crum, Lois Peach, Betty Busey, Shirley Hindman, and Virginia Gher. Officers of the Christian Endeavor Society at the time the old Church burned were: John Fluck, President Vora Mosher, Vice-President Lewis Zerby, Secretary Claire Weber, Treasurer Lois Colbert, Conference Chairman Jessie Lee Singer, Social Chairman Delores Smith, Pianist Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Smith, Sponsors Some sponsors during the 1930s and 1940s were Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Spen- cer, Mr. and Mrs. Lee Somers, June Smith, Lilith Southgate, Donald and Eu- gene Brownfield, Lloyd Hippensteele, Larry Rauf, Mr. and Mrs. James Maris. Some leaders among the young people themselves at different times were Luther Mosher, Vonnie and Deloris Smith, Virginia Gher. Shirley Locke, Margaret Edwards, Alice Patterson, Jane Daugherty, James Chapman, Jon Regnier and Sandra Schwab. The community youth group was at low tide when Mr.Jarman became pas- tor in 1948. He organized a Christian Youth Fellowship in October of that year with Mel vena Bray (Roppel) as sponsor and in November of 1949, a Chi Rho group was formed with Mr. and Mrs. James Maris as sponsors. Later. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Smith were sponsors. In September of 1950, Rev. Robert O.Thompson was employed as Assistant Pastor of the church to give special attention to youth work. He strength^ ened the two groups and organized a discussion group of young couples which was known as the 50-50 Sunday School class. After Mr. Thompson left in June of 1952. it was difficult to get volunteer leadership and the groups again dwindled. A group of parents carried on for a time. Then Edward H.Baker who was chairman of the Committee on Religious Education, did a good piece of work but felt they could not give as much time as was needed. January 1, 1955, Mrs. Kenneth Spencer (Mae) was employed as Youth Wor- ker on a part time basis. Mrs. Spencer supervises both the C. Y.F. and the Chi Rho. Materials from the United Christian Missionary Society and the Christian Board of Publication are used as a source of program material. These youth are becoming better informed young Christians. They carry a pledge to Unified Promotion because they have become interested in mis- sions. A low-cost supper is served before the formal meeting and a rec- reation period follows. Mrs. Spencer has the feeling that conferences and retreats are valuable and has encouraged attendance at these. 59 Chapter 21. Fisher Quarter Centennial Celebration Mr. Fisher completed twenty five years of service as pastor of Univer sity Place Church in July, 1928. Because it was felt that late summer was not a good time for a celebration the activities were postponed un- til late in January of 1929, the center day of the celebration week being Mr. Fisher's 58th birthday. The eight days of festivities from Sunday, January 27th to Sunday February 3rd was one of the happiest weeks Uni- versity Place folks ever experienced- Sunday January 27 „ 1929 Mr. Fisher's sermon included the story of his work with the church. Miss Vashti Ziegler one of the most beloved soloists the church ever hado was back to sing. Other appropriate music was arranged by Mrs.H.W.Woodrow , organist and director of music. George H.Dungan, chairman of the celebration committee presided. Persons who were lining in Champaign -Urbana when Mr. and Mrs. Fisher first came to Uni- versity Place Church sat in reserved seats in the center of the sanctuary. Sunday evening affairs were in charge of the young people. A novel, but dignified birthday supper was presided over by Victor Ferrall. Mrs. Fisher was presented with a huge bouquet of roses by Helen Spaulding. Various groups presented Mr. Fisher with a ring, watch charm chain, brief-case and book ends. Dr. Edward Scribner Ames of Chicago preached at the evening service. Wednesday noon, January 30, 1929, the Religious Workers of Champaign- Urbana University of Illinois faculty people and personal friends hon- ored Dr. and Mrs. Fisher at a luncheon in Wesley Foundation. Dr.R.E.Hier= ronymus was chairman. Telegrams were read from Oliver Stewart , Indiana- polis; Jeanette Benson, New Haven, Ct. W. E.Crabtree, San Diego, Calif. Carl Colvin, Haiti and Bishop James C.Baker of Japan Eugene Davenport „ Dean Emeritus of the College of Agriculture spoke for the University. He said, " There are many hard problems the external type that rise out- side the University. These are problems your neighbors can help solve. And every man of the Fisher type is the type that can do this. When a neighbor can be counted upon to be square and on solid footing on all large questions, then the University learns to appreciate that person." Helen Sapulding and Max Corey spoke on behalf of the student young people. Rev. J. Walter Malone, Jr., pastor of the McKinley Memorial Presby- terian Church represented the Religious Workers. Other speakers were Dr.W, A.Goodell , instructor in religious courses at the foundations L.H. Provines of the Y.M.C.A. board; Mrs .M.T.Kennedy of the Yfta.C.A. board and E.C.Baldwin, representing the Kiwanis. Dean T.A.Clark presented Mr. Fisher with a bound volume of 300 letters from friends. 60 At 4 o'clock Wednesday Mrs. Fisher was honored with a program and tea at the church. Mrs .T.O. Henderson presided. Mrs. George Dungan read a life sketch of Mrs. Fisher which was illustrated by a life album. Mrs. M. J. Fluck presented Mrs. Fisher with a silver tea i»et. Members of the church and friends filled to overflowing the basement of the church at a basket dinner on January 30 1929 in honor of Mr.Fisher': 58th birthday. A short program was presided over by L.W.Williams Chairman of the church board. A gift of nine $20 gold pieces was presented to Mr. Fisher. Following the program downstairs a community mass meeting was held in the church auditorium. A number of prominent representative men paid tribute to Mr. Fisher. Henry E.Wilson Executive Secretary of the University Y.M.C.A., spoke of the splendid cooperation the association had experienced in working with Mr. Fisher. "You've been on the rij^ht side of every issue, you've done pioneering in many activities" declared Charles M. Stall, representing the Champaign Chamber of Commerce. "'May the ministers of the future be such men as Dr. Fisher," was the plea of M.L. Flanigan, Supt.of the Urbana Schools. Dean A.J.Jarno of the College of Law said, "The University recognizes the fine work he has done. It is he who battles for jbhe right." Thursday evening, jthe workers of the Sunday School honored Mr. and Mrs. Fisher at a more intimate gathering. A banquet was served in the Primary room which was beautifully decorated with paper flowers and birds. The toastmaster was W.S.Adams. All department superintendents spoke briefly. This was followed by a brief talk by A.W.Nolan and a story by Mr. Fisher entitled The Peaks. Sunday morning, February 3, 1929, the theme of the morning service was Dreams of Achievement in the Future Mr. Fisher sketched work for the future-supervised play for children, personal evangelism, payment of debts, sharing in pension fund and enlarging and remodeltrig our plant. Warren Harris, whose forebearers had been loyal supporters of the church during its whole history presided. Warren is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Harris and grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Skinner. The crowning service of the week was Sunday evening when members of all departments of the Sunday School presented the program. This grand finale represented the future church expressing its appreciation of our beloved pastor, Mr. Fisher. In appreciation, Mr. Fisher said, in part: '"The luncheons and dinners, the programs of beautiful music and addresses voicing love and good will, the gifts and flowers, the cooperation of old and young alike in an out- 61 pouring of kindliness and thoughtfulness crowded into a most wonderful week, touched our hearts very deeply indeed. No attempt we can make to tell you of our appreciation is adequate. We can only say Thank you and hope and pray that the passing days and years may yield us opportun ity to respond to your gracious generosity in better work and more of love and sympathy, crowded into the days as we live them together in this greatest enterprises, the building of the church we love." 62 Chapter 22. Stephen E. Fisher As the week-long 25th anniversary celebration continued there was much newspaper publicity. Not only those who attended the festive occa- sions but the newspaper reader became better acquainted with this man who had ministered to the community in many ways. A leading article in the News-Gazette of January 26, 1929 by Frances H.Myers presented a per sonal view of Mr. Fisher which was enjoyed by all. Some material from that article has been used in this biography which is presented here so that the reader may know Mr. Fisher better. Stephen E, Fisher was born January 30,1871 in a two-room house on the prairies near Washburn, Illinois, son of Oliver M.Fisher of German Des- cent, and Sarah Carrithers Fisher of Scotch, Irish- English descent. He was the oldest of five children. In early youth, Mr. Fisher demonstrated a fondness for mechanics. He solved a "Youth Companion" puzzle and won a prize of a buzz saw of which he was very proud. He rode a bicycle five miles over a dusty road after a hard day's work to get his first sight of a steam propelled threshing outfit. The old horse-powered threshers were the only kind used up to that time. When eight years of age, he hitched an unbroken colt to a cart. The colt ran away and kicked itself loose. In the mixup„ it ran over and broke down a small, much prized shade tree which brought consternation in the Fisher household. At the age of ten years, he cultivated corn with an old-time walking cultivator. So small was he that he had to reach up to hold the plow handles. Mr. Fisher's interest in church work began at an early age. When a mere youth, he attended both Sunday School and Church services regularly, ri- ding two and one-half miles to Washburn on straw in the bottom of the bed of a two-horse wagon. It was a happy day in his young life when his father, as a surprise, came from town with a new "hack" which from then on was the vehicle used to convey the family to church. Stephen' s father always maintained that the son was going to be a preacher when he grew up but the boy did not think so, despite his faithful church attendance. Grammar school work was received in Washburn and when it was time to go to college he entered Eureka. Stephen bought a threshing machine on the payment plan. This he ran in the summertime to help defray his col- lege expenses. He is known to have worked all night on the separator in order that that the threshing not be delayed the following day. After two years of college, he stayed out two years during which time he taught school to finance the remainder of his college education. 63 Romance also existed in college in those days the same as in our own university. It was while a student in Eureka that Mr. Fisher met Miss Myrtle Stoner,who in 1898 became Mrs. Stephen E. Fisher. During Mr. Fisher's last two years in college, he was a student pastor of churches at Holder, Saunemin and Dana, Illinois. In 1900 he was graduated. Immediately fol- lowing this, he accepted a full-time pastorate at Gibson City, Illinois. He came to the pastorate of University Place Christian Church July 1. 1903. At that time it had about 200 members , representing about 87 fami- lies. The church was then often called the East Side Campbellite Church. Through his leadership, the church became a church of 1 000 members within the next four years. It was in 1916 that the Illinois Disciples Foundation at the Unii- versity of Illinois, was incorporated. Dr. Fisher was President of this organization from its beginning. Mr. Fisher took an active part in other than lis immediate church and Foundation affairs. For a time, during World War I, he was Chaplain at Camp Logan, Texas representing the Disciples of Christ. In 1920, Dr. Fisher served as a member of the National Executive Board of the United Christian Missionary Society. The following year, he was commissioned with two other ministers of the brotherhood to go to Jamai- ca on a good will embassy to work with Disciples missionaries there in the solution of some problems that had arisen. Dr. Fisher was President of the International Convention of the Disci- ples of Christ in 1922. This is considered the greatest honor which comes to a man in the Disciples Brotherhood, and comes only once. June 11, 1924, he was presented with the honorary degree of L.L.D. from Eureka College, in recognition of achievements and merit both in the community of which he was pastor and in Inter-church Relationships. Dr. Fisher, tegether with Bishop James C.Baker, formerly of Trinity Methodist Church, and Dr. John A. O'Brien of the Newman Foundation cooper- ated with the University of Illinois in the development of a plan where- by the foundations would teach approved courses in religion and the uni- versity would give credit toward graduation to students who passed these courses. This busy pastor had time for other activities. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Champaign-Urbana. He took great pleasure in the weekly fellowship with the men of the community he found there. Then there were recreational moments which he devoted to tennis - yes, he won the college tennis tournament in his senior year - and he also had the golf bug. Although University Place Church gave Dr. Fisher a "Call for life" at 64 the end of 25 years, he released them from that call saying that 25 years was a long time and that he would like for them to review the whole situation and determine what was best for the church in the multi- form phases of the responsibility which it bore to the community-campus situation. Dr.R. E.Hieronymus was appointed chairman of a committee which made a study of the matter for a month and in the end, submitted the fol- lowing resolutions which were passed unanimously by the church board and congregation: "That the church tender our pastor, Stephen E.Fisher, the pastorate of this church for an indefinite period with the understanding that in case a change is desired at any time, six months notice be given the other by the party desiring the change. " Dr. Fisher had many attractive offers of pastorates elsewhere, in- cluding prominent churches in Los Angeles, California and Washington D.C. During the year before the 25th anniversary celebration, three offers of work were presented. In deciding to remain here, Dr. Fisher always said, "I love the people of University Place Church and I regard this work, on account of its contacts with so many young people from all over the world who are destined to be its leaders of the future, as one of the most at- tractive fields of service which could possibly challenge the best any man has to offer. Our friends of University Place who have helped to make this work possible are not ordinary friends. Such friendships are not made in a day and after all these years together, we should find it hard indeed to leave them and begin all over some place else." 65 Chapter 23, Conditions Just Previous To A Great Crisis With Some Class Histories The building of University Place Christian Church was completely des- troyed by fire on the 6th of March. 1932. At that time, the ecominic sta- tus of the members was low, but their loyalty and numerical strength were high. This chapter gives glimpses of the condition of the church and adult classes immediately before that time of crisis. It had been a long pull for the congregation to clear the indebtedness on the enlarged building which was dedicated in 1911. Several financial drives were made but it was not until 1931 that the total debt was re- moved. The Messenger of January 15 1931 made the following statement of rejoicing "Yes 3 it is a sure thing that the last dollar of the debt on dear old University Place Church is paid., and the remnant of the match which did the noble deed is filed away with the minutes of the happy An- nual Meeting of last Wednesday evening. And, truly, £here was rejoicing as Mr. J.H. Eversole, Treasurer Mrs. T.O.Henderson, President of the Wom- en' s Council; and Mr. M.L. Armstrong, trustee and former Treasurer, com- pleted the ceremony and the eager flames kindled the fire that consumed the mortgage." The Pastor's report at the meeting indicated that 219 had been added to the regular membership of the church during 19 30 and that there had been 139 student affiliations. Of these, 358 f there were 116 by confession of faith and baptism. In the Fall of 1931, a cooperative Church Loyalty Crusade among the protestant churches of Champaign-Urban a was organized. It was led by George G.Dowey, a nationally known leader of Loyalty movements . There were mass meetings of men, t of women, and of young people. University Place joined wholeheartedly in the campaign, having the largest represen- tation at the Men's and Young People's meetings. From our membership, 401 pledged regular church attendance, 325 regular Sunday School atten- dance and 330 daily personal devotions. A large number of our teachers attended the inter-denominational Teacher Training Classes. That Fall, our church attendance was built up from the usual four hundred plus to well above seven hundred. And the Sunday School went from the five and six hundreds to a peak of Eight Hundred and seventy- two in November. J.T.Wilcox of the Renner Funeral Home and a deacon in the church, furnished extra chairs for several Sundays. This was also a season for enrollment of new members. Among these were Mr. and Mrs. Paul Peach, Mr. and Mrs. Donald Vance, Mr. and Mrs.Lansom Demming and Mrs. Glen ghapman, all of whom became strong leaders. It was a time of 100% attendance in many ,cl asses and of general enthu- siasm and revival. Yet,, at the same time, a plea had to be made for 66 small gifts to raise a fund for coal. The great national depression had reached our church. Mr. Fisher stressed stewardship in almost every ser- mon and special stewardship lessons were taught in adult classes. During the annual Loyalty Week in December, when pledges were made to support the 19 32 budget, more members subscribed than ever before but the amount was only $146.50 per week as against $285.00 called for in the proposed budget. It was evident the members were feeling the pinch of the depression. A newspaper report of January 6 19 32 stated that in 1931, a total of $20,663.99 was received and expended by all organiza- tions of the church. February 28,1932 was the last Sunday that the old University Place Church building was ever used. Seven adult classes met that day. The Shawhan Class The Shawhan class was in the south east corner on the first floor. Mr. Shawhan, the outstanding Bible student of the church, had brought this class over from the little White Street Church, more than 28 years before. He was a splendid teacher who seemed as familiar with the temple in Jerusalem as with University Place Church. He slipped away to his New Jerusalem in 1924, having been a pillar in his church for 41 years. Mr. J.H. Eversole, owner of farms in Douglas County, succeeded Mr. Shaw- han as teacher. Some of the same persons who were members in the White Street Church were members in 19 32. They were no longer called "The Young Married People" but they were still faithful. Mrs. Emma Porter, sec- retary of the class, had been cited just previously for a perfect atten- dance record of eight years. She worked as a janitoress in old Bevier Hall. She declared she could just as well walk a mile to church on Sun- day as to walk more than a mile to work each day of the week. The Loyal Women s Class The Loyal Women met in a room separated from the Shawhan Class by a series of folding doors. When the two rooms were thrown together, the area constituted whar was sometimes called the "church parlor". But the furnishings consisting of one old davenport a piano and some folding chairs left much to be desired for a parlor. So it was more often called "The Loyal Women's Room." Mrs . Eva Pedro was one of the first teachers of the middle-aged women. In this class, which usually had an attendance of 50 or 60, Mrs. Pedro was a musician and a woman with a long Disciple back- ground. She attended church conventions and studied carefully the pros and cons concerning the organization of jshe United Christian Missionary Society. Mrs .L.W.Williams and Prof . A. W.Nolan taught the class for brief periods. Then Mrs. Daisy Dean Nesbit, a widow who moved to Champaign to educate her daughter, was the quiet little teacher for a number of years. A number of years before the last Sunday in the old building, Prof.L.W. Williams of the College of Education, began a very long term as teacher. 67 The women liked the little man who was so fine so straightforward so dependable. In this class were women who were leaders in the Women's Council and Missionary Society, over a period of many years, Among the Presidents were Mrs. W.M.Honn Mrs. E.M.Rhodes Mrs. E.M. Brewer Mrs. A.N. Nichols Mrs. Arthur Leasure and Mrs. W.R. Stine. The Men s Class The Men* s Class met under the rear balcony in a section of the church auditorium which could be closed off at will by a rolling partition. This, in fe&*£jg early days was a large class with attendance sometimes reaching 100. One of the early teachers was Rev.Stipp a retired minister who moved his family to Champaign in 1909. It is recorded that Mr.Stipp was a splendid teacher for several years. He was the father of Frank Stipp and Mrs. Blanch Stipp Beach. M.L.Murduck was a teacher of the evangelistic type. He later moved his membership to the Webber Street Church where he became a leader. George Skelton (father of Maurice Skelton) was a well liked teacher. The Skelton Family came to Urbana in 1915. Mr.Skel ton was probably followed by a Mr.McDaniels who was caretaker of the en- larged church building for a long time. M. I.Coldwell one of the Univer- sity Y.M.C. A. secretaries taught for a time. About 1930, A.H. Lauchner, Principal of Thornburn Junior High School in Urbana. began a long period of teaching. Mr. Lauchner was an enthusi astic young man whose teaching and numerous other talks were peppered with stories from life. He said he liked to tell the men about the youth of his school, ffifee men enjoyed his illustrations but some of them had a longing for more scriptural arguments common in the days gone by. Some of the early leaders of the class were* Claude C. Chapman, father of Glen Chapman, Mayor of Urbana O.S.Evans. Frank Padfield, E.E.Higgins, Smith Wisegarver, Chas.St.John Luther Cox, E.E. Horning, T.C.Curtis, Lu- ther Armstrong Roy Slough, R.L.Maxson, T.O.Henderson and H.H.Griesheimer. The men of this class and the Loyal Women had many happy times toge- ther socially. The Curtis, the Wisegarver, The Horning,, and the T.O.Hen- derson homes were popular places of meeting for picnics and parties. The Golden Circle Class The Golden Circle Class was an outgrowth of the Gleaners and XL clas- ses. Gleaners was a class of young matrons organized March 29, 1914. Four years later when the class celebrated its fourth anniversary, ten charter members were still active and a goodly number of new women had been added to the roll. Among the original members were Mrs. Harry Weath- erford and Mrs. Henry Dust who after 42 years remain on the Golden Cir- cle roll. Gleaners were strong during World War I and met regularly to do Red Cross work. Prof .N.B.Garver of the Engineering College was their teacher. After a time, husbands of some of the women banded together to 68 form the XL Class- A. < • ! ters» n w p Skinner was teacher [t came to be I could d better work by uniting which they did con- tinued as teacher for a time. Other tt h< rs Fo t per is ere: A G.Patterson, Prof, Ernest Lan^f ord Dr.R : Pett;; Attorney B.L.Kirl< and B \ T. Simmers : (dentist). In 1930 during the period of D?=Somer s teaching the class took the name Golden Circle. At first the new name had a 1 d time taking hold and the ;lass was called both Married people and Golden Circle for some time. Old copies of The Messenger record several items concerning Dr.Su:n me s as teacher from Sept. 1930 to June 1931 when he moved to Mattoon. Fred Snyser Brown, who was President in 1931, tells of searching 'V a new teacher He was cited to J. ^Colbert who according to The Messen- ger of April 9 1931, joined the hurch the nrst Sunday in April. 1931. Mr. Brown approached Mr. Colbert about becoming the teacher. Mr. Colbert .^aid he would fill in occasionally. In the Fall of 1931, he became the permanent teacher. Mr. Colbert was a teacher in the public schools and in Illin is Commercial College Champaign. He had a friendly, jovial manner and a winning personality. He wd? faithful to his duties as teacher and lass grew, Over a period of 25 years of ]eadership, the Golden Cir- (.lass pas the largest In the school. He did a superb job of holding the group together and arousing loyalty, Mr. Colbert resigned as teach er ir th«. summei of 1956, The following list o 4 class Pre ts with some dates of time of office was furnished by C3 Daugherty a I >ng ; Lme member of the Class F.Smyser Brown (i c *. < Paul Peach J I Wilcox Harry 8ichard ■■•ins Oren L.Whalin Heber Rumbl* (1945) Russe I Brown, Rc> Long Paul Johnston Vernon Brown :i ". L94 Clayton Daugherty (1950) Edwai ; Huston(1951), Harrison Fahrnkoph (1952) Paul Utterback (1953) Stanley Lth (1955-1956). The Alpha Omega Class During The last few years :■ the old church, th« Alpha Omega Class a p of young business as professional women met in one of r -he balcony fheir teachei wa \. : r,s Amy Beach one • he most bel sred and tal- en ed women of the chu i - h a rery successful and Influential tea hei in the Champaign High School. After Miss Beach passed away the class was taught by Or : iviarie Walli • The Younger Adult Class The Younger Adult Class taught by Prof, M.L.Mosher, met in a first room served as Foundation oflice and library. This class was -ganized to are for community people both married and unmarried who felt they were not interested in the Go Hen Circle Class. 69 The Somers or Delta Class A still newer class of young adult was one in which were sorm young women who had been taught by Mrs. Lee Somers sin e their intermediate days. It was then an active class of girls who liked to present brief dramas on various occasions under the dir t.ion of Prof L. A. Somers. Be cause of the splendid oversight of Mr. and Mrs. Somers, the girls hung to gether into young womanhood. As they began to marry young husbands were admitted to the class. They decided to fo* m a young couples class and named themselves the Delta Class. But Mr s - Some r s ' influence was ,so im bedded that it was never easy to say Delta Class. It was usually called the Somers' Class. Some of those who were members of the class over a long period were Mr. and Mrs. Scott Hoover, Mr. and Mrs.Roscoe Cadle Mr.and Mrs. Roy Evans, Mr, and Mrs. Robert Lumsden, Mr.and Mrs. Floyd Locke, Mr.and Mrs. Kenneth Weaver Mr.and Mrs. Clarence Wilson, Mr.and Mrs. Donald Vance, Mr and Mrs Glen Chapman. Mrs. Somers said that in the early history of the class, fifteen baby giftf showers were given in one year for members of the class. In these seven adult classes of February 28,1932, were the majority of the people who were to shoulder the burdens of a great calamity which befell the church before the Sunday School hour the following week. 70 Chapter 24. The Disastrous Fire University Place Christian Church was completely destroyed by fire, Sunday,, March 6,1932. Only a desolate mass of brick and charred metal re- mained Monday from the former church. Fire swept through the large build- ing resulting in $125,000 worth loss early Sunday morning. When Fire Chief John Ely entered the blazing church he found the steel roof beams crashing from the ceiling, and witnessed the entire roof fall- ing in. The fire gutted the entire building but left walls standing on the East and North sides. Portions of the South and West walls fell in immediately. As soon as possible, men working under the direction of Com- missioners Walter Swearinger and Lyle Gallivan pulled the weakened por- tions of the wall down. Eut majestically, though blackened by fire, the entrance through which thousands of worshippers of the church had passed, stood like an open door, like a symbol of hope, to the members of University Place Church. Two leads of hose were played upon the ruins throughout the day as a precaution against a renewal of the blaze. At 4 30 p.m., the hose was ordered withdrawn, although smoke and steam continued to rise. Besides the loss of the church building itself, were the loss of Dr. Fisher's personal library, all church records, including budgets and membership lists , a new $1,900 grand piano, a new $700 dishwasher, 25 new folding tables costing $350, 72 new folding chairs costing $250 which had been purchased by the Women's Council. Along with the church property, all possessions of the Illinois Disciples Foundation, which had offices in the Northeast corner of the main floor were burned. A large library of the Foundation was lost. This is the story of how the fire started. About 4 o'clock Sunday morn- ing,, Walter Garland, janitor who had served the church for a number of years, built a fire in the furnace. Since the temperature had dropped to 6 degrees above zero, he knew he would have to begin early to make the church comfortable by the time morning services started. Mr. Garland and his wife occupied a five-room apartment in the basement on the Southwest side. After starting the fire, Mr. Garland went back to bed. Shortly after 6 o'clock, he detected smoke and rushing into the church, found the building on fire. Hurrying across the street to the home of Luther C. Cox 603 East Springfield, he reported the fire. Mr. Cox, an elder in the church ; ran to the building attempting to gain entrance by the front door, but the fire had made such headway that he was forced back. 71 As the news of the fire spread, church members rushed to their church and stood stunned at the loss which was taking place before their eyes, Throughout the day, the scene of the fire attracted thousands of persons. The near-zero weather prevented them from remaining long. The loss was only partially covered, as the church carried only S25 s 000 insurance besides ^1,000 on the grand piano. While flames were sweeping out the interior that Sunday morning a meeting of the board members of the church was held at the home of Lu- ther Cox and plans were made to hold the worship service for that day at 2 30 P.M. Sunday afternoon, in the Trinity Methodist Church building (later the Twin City Bible Church building). Dr. Paul Purt pastor of Trinity, willingly offered his church. Every available seat in Trinity was taken for the service. Following the usual service several church members spoke briefly in regard to the future of the churh. The members of the ehurch were greatly inspired by the fact that fcur people of great faith became new members that day. They were Pmssell Duncan and Faye Jessee, who later became his wife; Evelyn W e ber and Esther Vose. All these became strong leaders in the church. With a single goal to "cany on" and rebuild the church, the staff started from scratch Monday morning in temporary offices established in the McKinley Presbyterian Foundation. With the same telephone number on the newly installed telephone. Dr. Fisher and Miss Richards began work collecting new membership files. Early Monday, Mr. Fisher was receiving gifts of money for the new building and books for a new library. The first gift, one of $25 was re- ceived from Rev. Herbert Miller, minister of the Champaign Emmanuel Memo- rial Episcopal Church. Monday noon, Mr. Fisher and a few leaders met to discuss future proce- dures. An official board meeting was called for Wednesday night in the office of Prof .L.W. Wil liams in the University High School building. It was decided to begin a money raising campaign at once. The University of Illinois very generously offered the congregation the use of Smith Memorial Pall for Sunday morning worship services and Lincoln Hall for Sunday School classes. The following announcement by Mr. Fisher appeared in The Messenger on March 10, 1932. "Through the very great kindness of President Chase, Professor J.M. White and the Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois, we are to meet for our worship services in the lovely auditorium of Smith Music 72 Building, just East of the University Auditorium and facing Mathews Ave- nue. The service will be at 10.30 as usual. "Our Sunday School will meet at 9:45 in the Lincoln Building just West of the Auditorium, fronting on Wright Street. Ushers will be at the door to direct you to your class room. Kow fortunate we are to have the proffer of these two splendid buildings so close together!" These very adequate accomodations were granted to University Place Church over a period of four years at a cost of only incidental expenses. This generous gift might well be said to have saved the congregation from disintegration. The members were indeed grateful for this great generosity. A service to publicly express appreciation was held the first Sunday in April, 1936, just previous to the removal of the congregation to its new building. The church office, set up after the fire in the McKinley Memorial Pres- byterian Foundation, was soon moved. Fortunately, some ten years before, the Illinois Disciples Foundation had purchased the eight-room residence at 610 East Springfield Avenue, Champaign, directly across the street North from the church. Led by Mrs.M. J. Fluck, Mrs. L.C. Cox ., Mrs .0. S. Evans and Mrs. T.O.Henderson, this building was cleaned and refitted for a church center which became known as ' 'The Church House " In it were carried on all of the church activities between Sundays. On the second floor was the pastor's study and secretarial offices. A part of the downstairs provided room for Mrs. Mabel Carlock's office and other Foundation work. The women equipped the kitchen and made social rooms in the front of the house on the lower floor. Here, Church Night Suppers and Worker's Meetings were held on Wednesday nights. Women's Council meetings, Missionary programs, Church Board meetings and count- less committee meetings were also held here. In fact, the women devised ways to hold large suppers here to earn money for the Building Fund. A unique plate brigade was employed to lift food up the stair way to serve meals in the upper rooms. During the four-year building activities, the annual meetings of the congregation were held in the McKinley Memorial Presbyterian Foundation. 73 Chapter 25- Preparations For Rebuilding After the fire., it was the unanimous feeling of the Church Board that steps should be taken at once toward rebuilding the church. A number of large committees were appointed - Champaign -Urban a Citizens Committee Building Committee.. Men's Dinner Committee. Women's Dinner Committee, Student Committee, Eible School Committee and Community Young People s Committee. All of these worked in various ways to build up enthusiasm and consecration for the finance drive. George G.J9© w ey of the Inter-denominational Home Missions Council who had served the churches of the community only the year before, was secured as Counselor and Director of the drive. Large dinner meetings were held at which the cause of the new building program was ably pre- sented by Mr.Dowey and others. April 17. 1932 was set for "Victory Day" at which time it was hoped to get pledges for $74,000, This, with the ne box L.W. William Presentatic ' .■ ". Eversole, Chairman. Universi- 1 Place On Liai Church Building Committee, iURCH - Stephen E.Fisher, Pastor, Unii? 3 Place Ch Lstian Church , Champaign , Urbana. Laying oi Come. Stone - Stephen E.Fisher, assi.-.^ed by Fraak Leasure, Mason. Benediction H. Clifford Northcutt, Pr^>Lor, First \iethcdis'. Episcopal Church Champaign. Committee arranging thi am Dr.G.H. Dungan Dr.R. E. Hieronymi (Printei by request of Brother Fisher) In his address Mi -■■•' " - ■ ""'■' rred to the fa I that he was present at the laying of the cornerstone in 1902 when (Jni sity Place Church was erecting a new building en Springfield and Wright Streets, Then booking to the future he said, V we look to the church of the future God grant that it may be on. ujbterl stripped of sectarian pride or denominational bias seeking always to iink her irer r« rces and p I an of service with tha- of every othei go ■ \ single man and \ an who loved God and hymanity of whatevc eference." With warm words of appreciation he sa; I, "It is appropriate at this significant occasion marking the progress made in erection of the new building that the Church express its appreciation for their kindliness and helpfulness to the friends of the Twin Cities to the Churches and pastors of these cities and of Illinois to the University of Illinois, its President and Faculty and its Board of Trustees to the Illinois Emergency Relief Commission under Dr. Bedford. State Chairman, and to the County Emergency Relief Organization from the days of the committee un- der Mr. Thomas Carson until the present administration of Mr. Wilson to the toilers who, under this organization have rendered faithful and efficien service; to the newspapers, without whose fine cooperation the work could not have been inaugurated or brought to its present state: to Mr. A. F. Wickes of the Church Erection Department of the United Christian Missionary Society, Consulting Architect and builder of Churches, whose counsel has given such splendid inspiration and direction to associated firms of architects Messrs. Ramey Eerger and Kelly who have pains tak- ingly worked out details and given supervision to English Brothers and later to Mr. E.N.DeAtley and Mr.Kuhne contractors who are rendering such 83 splendid faithful service to Mr.G. A. Swen*on of the Illinois Cut Stone Company who is giving cons tan- care thai the stone entering into the construction shall be both excellent in material and beautiful in form to Mr. Ch as. As man general superintendent master builder who is so con tinously and watchfully on the job and whose presence gives us daily assurance that the finished work shall be beautiful to all these the Church humbly declares with Paul of long ago We are debtor " The only notation concerning the contents of the cornerstone box was found in THE MESSENGER of September 20 1934 - "The beautiful copy of the History of University Place Christian Church which was deposited in the copper box which was placed in the cornerstone Sunday afternoon is the work of Mrs. G.Ii.Dungan, . . . .The beautiful morocco binding and gold letter ing which was provided for the special copy of the history was the gift of Brother and Sister Harold Was die r and their own handy work." Someone perhaps hundreds of years from now when the new building has grown old and the time has come for it to be dismantled will find in this volume of history that which is both interesting and beautiful. The copper box which was so deftly fashioned to fit the recess on the under side of the huge cornerstone was the work and gift of Twin City Roofing Company, Our gratitude is hereby expressed to all these generous friends." 84 Chapter 29 Construction Continues By January 10,1935, the stone and brick work on the walls, and the roof on the educational and office section were completed. By April 1935, the money in the building fund was running very low a- gain. More money had to be borrowed if the building work was to continue. On account of the national economic situation, it was hard indeed to find a company that would make a loan to a church. After much investigation, it was found that the Ralph Dempsey Loan Company of Pekin would make our church a loan for $50,000 at 5% interest, provided subscriptions could be secured for making payments of $250 a month. The $50,000 was calcu- lated to finish the building. Many members felt they already were paying all they could, but strong pleas were made in the pages of TOE MESSHVGER, from the pulpit, and before Sunday School classes. After these appeals, volunteer subscriptions to this new fund totaled $223.27 toward monthly payments. Something more had to be done. Then some Business and Professional friends of the church agreed to contribute to the interest fund each month for a year. Their names were listed in TOE MESSENGER once each month as "Life Line Holders." By this method the church expressed its thanks. So another of a series of emer- gencies had been turned into victory. The church was completed and ready for dedication in April of 19 36. The new site, the building and equipment were valued at $211,433.00. Debts at this time, including unpaid balances on equipment, totaled $136,542.00. Dr. A. C.Hageman , well known Director of Church Finance, Chicago, was enlisted to lead a Pre-Dedication financial drive in February and March for $20,000. The climax of the drive was set for Sunday, March 22, called Appreciation Day. On that day, services were held for the first time in the new church. There were an estimated 800 persons present. The financial goal was so nearly reached, it was decided that funds would not be so- licited on Dedication Day, which was set for April 5, 1936. At this first worship service in the building Wilma Louise Johnston daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Paul E. Johnston, made the confession of her faith and became the first new member in the newly built church. Hie first couple to wed in the new church was Mr. and Mrs. Donald Brown- field. They were married by Rev. Fisher on Sunday, August 18, 1935 before the building was completed. Rev. B.R. He ffley, second minister of the church was Mr.Brownfield 5 s grandfather. Sunday, March 29, 1936, the congregation met again in Smith Memorial Music Hall holding a service of farewell and gratitude for the use of the building for worship services, and also Lincoln Hall for Sunday Scho- ol classes through four difficult years- Mr. Fisher said, "University 85 Place Church congregation seeks to express publicly its very great ap- preciation to the Board of Trustees, to the President, and to the facul- ty of the University for their very gracious helpfulness in time of need." Miss Amy Beach spoke for the Sunday School and G II Dungan for the church. Dr C E Palmer, Associate Dean of the College of Fine and Applied Arts, gave a thoughtful and generous response. An effort was made before dedication time to have members complete payment of their past pledges to the building fund. The June 18 and June 25,1936 issues of THE MESSENGER published an Honor Roll listing the names of those who had brought their payments up to date. This Honor Roll indicated that the beautiful new church was built by the gifts of many faithful members. These members in turn felt grateful for the gifts of many friends and well wishers. HONOR ROLL (Those whose building fund pledges were paid in full to June 15, 1936.) Mr. and Mrs.T. D. Amm Judge and Mrs. John Armstrong Mr. and Mrs. M.L. Armstrong Mr. and Mrs. E.C. Bash Dr. and Mrs. F.H. Beach Mrs. H.G. Beach and Amy Miss Jessie R.BeadL j s Mr. and Mrs. C.J, Bell Miss Marie Bennett Mr.J.C.Best and family Mr. and Mrs. W.B.Blaisdel 1 Mrs. Grace Boraker Mrs. Rachel Brannock Mr. and Mrs.Russel A.Brown Mr. and Mrs.D.E, Brownfield Mr. and Mrs. A. T. Burrows Mrs.Estella M.Busey and Margaret Mrs. Elsie M.Cain Mr.H. S.Cain Mrs. Claire M.Calvert Mr. and Mrs. Fred L. Cannon Mrs. Mabel R. Car lock Mr. and Mrs.D.R. Carr Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Chamberlain Mr. and Mrs. C.C. Chamberlain Mr. and Mrs. Glen Chapman Mr. and Mrs. F,V. Clements Mr. and Mrs, C.M.Cornelius Mrs. George B.Cox Mr. and ^.rs.L.C. Cox Mr. and rs.G.N.Crum Mr . and Mrs . A. A. Cuppy Mr. and Mrs. I.L.Curry Mr. and Mrs.T. E. Curtis Mr. and Mrs. L.H. Darling Mr. and Mrs.C. F, Daugherty Mr. and Mrs. E.N.Deatley Dr.Burrus Dickinson Mrs. May S.Dickinson Mr. and Mrs. Earl Donaldson Mr. and Mrs. R.H.Duncan Mrs. Nellie Duncan Professor and Mrs. G.H. Dungan Mr. and Mrs, George Dunkle and Edna Mr. and Mrs. Fred Ekbom Miss Rube Ekbom Mr. and Mrs. 0. S. Evans Mr . and Mrs . Roy Evans Mr. J.H. Eversole and Mildred Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Faulkner Mrs.E.H.Fincham Reverend Stephen E.Fisher Mrs. Mae Flack Mr. and Mrs.M. J. Fluck 86 Mrs. Dale Foster Mr. and Mrs.C.Y. Freeman Miss Ruth S. Funk and family Mr. and Mrs. C.N. Fuqua Mrs . M. S. Gal 1 aher Mr. Tom M.Garman Mrs. S. W. Gaumer Mr. and Mrs. J.H.Godsey Mrs. Mary J.Gordin Mr. and Mrs.H.H.Griesheimer Mrs.Lydia M.Gulick Mr. and Mrs. H.C.Gund lock Mr. and Mrs. U. F.Gund lock Mr. and Mrs. Charles A.Haines Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Hall Mrs. Ethel Dyer Hamilton Mr. and Mrs.L. W.Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. S.Hamlin Mr. and Mrs.G.D.Harrell Mrs. Lillian S.Harris Mr. and Mrs. W. S. He ad lee and Doro Mr. and Mrs. W.J. Heath and Helen Miss Myne A. Hegenbart Reverend and Mrs. R. H.Heicke Miss Etta Henderson Mr. and Mrs. W.T.Henderson Mr. and Mrs. T.O.Henderson Mr.H.H.Kesser Mr. and Mrs.Erman Higgins Mr. and Mrs.C.M.Higgs Miss Magdalene Hodgen Mr.W.W.Hinshaw Mr. and Mrs. Elmer P.IIoggatt Misses Susan and Opal Holmes Mrs. Laura Holt Dean and Mrs.R. R. Hudelson Reverend and Mrs. L.G. Huff Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hyatt Miss Eda A. Jacobsen Miss Dorothy James Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Jessee Mr. and Mrs. W.W.Johns Mr. and Mrs. Claire Johnson Mrs. L.E.Johnson Dr. and Mrs. P. E.Johnston Mr. and Mrs. V.W.Johnston Mr. and Mrs. F.B.Jones Miss Emma R.Jutton Misses Nola and Ann Kannmacher Mr. George Kaufiman Mr. O.A.Keating and family Mr. and Mrs. B.L. Kirk Mrs. Florence Kelmich Mrs. B.C. Knight Mr. and Mrs. Herman Laning and family Mr. and Mrs. A.H.Lauchner Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Leasure and France; Mrs.C.M.Lesure and Essie Mr. and Mrs. F.W.Locke and Shirley Mr. and Mrs. Roy G.Long Mr. Warren J.Mankey thy Mr. and Mrs. F.M. Maris Mrs.W. I.Markland and Romeyn Mr. and Mrs. H.H. Marshal 1 Mr. and Mrs. R. P. Marshal 1 Mr. and Mrs.I.R.Marfcjin Mr. C. A. McDonald Mr. and Mrs. Ben McMains Mr. and Mrs. H.A.Meeker and Marion Mr. and Mrs.R. W.Meyers Mrs. Lucy A.Miller Miss Evelyn MoiTett Mr. and Mrs. A.L.Moody and Maxine Mr. and Mrs . R. C.Moore Mr. Ivan Morfery, Jr. Prof .M.L.Mosher and family Mr. and Mrs. John D. Murphy Mr. and Mrs. F. I.Nakamura Mr. and Mrs. A.N.Nichols Prof. and Mrs. A. W.Nolan Mr. and Mrs.G. R.Noonan Mr. and Mrs. H.G.Osborne, Jr. 87 Dr OR Overman Mr. and Mrs.T.D.Parkhill Mr, and Mrs. L.L.Patterson Mrs. Anna Peck IVlx*. and Mrs. Roy Peterson Dr. and Mrs.C. E.Pol lard Mrs. Pearl Porter and Robert Mr, and Mrs. S.N.Powel 1 Mr. and Mrs.C. A. Richards Mrs. H. C Richards and Vira Mr. and Mrs. Charles W.Rose Mrs. Alice Babb Rusk Mr. and Mrs .Ross S.Rusk Mr.C-H. Sansom Dr. and Mrs . W. E, Schowengerdt Mrs. Lloyd V Sherwood Miss Jeanette Shinker Mrs. Charles Sibrel Mr. and Mrs. F,L. Skel ton Mr.M.B. Skelton and family Mrs. Margaret Skinner Mr. R.C Slough and family Mrs.Adelia A.Smith Mr, and Mrs Arthur Smith Mr. Billy Smith Mr and Mrs, H.L. Smith Mrs. Mary E.Smith Mr Stanley C.Smith and family Mr. Max Snider Mr. L.Morgan Snyder Mr and Mrs. K.L. Spencer Mrs. E.G. Sperlin Mr. and Mrs , W„ D. Sperry Mr. and Mrs. Guy Stanner Mr. Lawrence Stewart Mr. and Mrs. Charles St. John Mrs, Stella Sutherland Mrs. Lucille Switzer Mr- and Mrs. G.W.Tate Miss Virginia Teeters Mr. and Mrs. J.H, Tegar Mrs,L.B.Tegar Mr. and Mrs. M.T.Trimble Mrs. Emma Tucker Mr. George M.Turmail Mr. Dean Heyer Turner Mr .and Mrs.D. E.Vance Mr.E.M.Vennum Mrs. L.Maude Warnock Mrs. Mary Watson Mr. and Mrs. K. D. Weaver Mrs. Etta Weed and Fanny Mr, and Mrs.O.L. Whalin Miss Ju|iana White Miss Ruby Wiley Mr. and Mrs.R.M.Wilkins Prof. and Mrs. L.W.Williams Dr. and Mrs. H.B.Will man Mr . and Mrs . C. V. Wi 1 son Mrs. O.D.Wilson and family Mr. and Mrs. B. E.Wimer Mr. and Mrs. Smith Wise gar ver Mr .and Mrs. S.S, Wood Mr, and Mrs. W.M Woods Mrs.C. C.Wooley Mr, and Mrs. A. D< Wright and family Mrs. Daisy W. Zimmer Mr. and Mrs. Paul Allen Mrs. Clara Baker Mr. and Mrs. John Bell Mr. and Mrs.W S.Blaisdell Mr. and Mrs, Vernon Brown Mr. David Busey Mr. and Mrs. John A- Butler Miss Lois Colbert Mrs. Carrie Dalrymple Mr. and Mrs. F.M.Dillon Mrs. -Myrtle Dixon Mr. and Mrs.H. F. Dodds Mr. Glen Donaldson Mr o and Mrs. Henry Dust Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Fiscus Mrs. Margaret Friedrick Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Funkhouser 88 Mr. and Mrs.R.G.Gher Miss Edith Miller Mr.C.Wand W,E.I?all Mr. and Mrs. A.G.Patterson Mr. and Mrs. Don Holzer Mr. and Mrs. F. A.Pfost Mr. and Mrs. George R.Johnson Mrs-M. W.Rigdon and Willard Mr. and Mrs. Richard H.Johnson Mrs T.E.Smith Mr. and Mrs. S. W.Kil ton Mr .and Mrs,D. A. Stewart Mr. and Mrs. John Lierman, Sr, Miss R.by Stewart Mr.and Mrs. V.Lucas Mr, and Mrs. Harold L.Taylor Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lumsden Miss Lois Taylor Mrs. Peter Manion Mr. and Mrs. John Van Way Mr. and Mrs.R.L.Maxson Mr and MrsJiarold A.Wascher Mrs. Edith Merryman Mr, and Mrs. Harry Weatherford Mrs. Elsie M. Miles and family Mr.Cal Williamson Incidental ly, the above list is the most nearly complete roll available of the church membership at Dedication time. 89 Chapter 30 The Church Continues To Grow Spiritually In spite of the fact that during the four years between the burning of the old church and the dedication of the new building the congregation gave much thought to finances, other phases of the church work also re ceived attention. Stress was placed on attendance at worship services in Smith Memorial Hall. Average attendance in 1932 was 449 compared to 429 in 1931 in the old church. Mr. Roy Slough, a deacon organized a trans portation committee which served a number of people. Even though there was little opportunity to have standard equipment in the children's departments of the Sunday School, attendance remained about the average of past years. Mrs. Stanley C.Smith and Mrs, Lucille Switzer conducted worship services for children during the church hour These were well attended and effective. Sunday School workers, Women s Council. Missionary Society, Mission- ary Guild Young People and Men's groups held meeting with usual success, using the Church House on most occasions Sometimes the Missionary Soci ety meetings were held in conjunction with those of Webber Street Church, The annual Congregational Meetings were held in McKinley Presbyterian Foundation, Webber Street Church kindly offered their baptistry for use at any time- A total of 365 new members were added to University Place Church dur ing the four years it was wichout a church home. A new class for young adults was organized in November of 1934 and Colonel Ralph Gher became the teacher. Frances Bilyou Kurkendall was the first president, Frank Dobyne was president in 1936 and Maury Marshall in 19 37. When the class celebrated its 15th anniversary in 1949 some of its active members were Mr and Mrs. Kenneth Spencer, Mr. and Mrs, Donald Hill, Mr. and Mrs Donald Dunlap, Mr. and Mrs.Mervin Holt, Mr. and Mrs. Char- les Griest, Mr. and Mrs, Geo. Stevenson ,Jr~ : Dr. and Mrs. Joe Daily and Mr. and Mrs. Lee Williamson. 90 Chapter 31 The Dedication Palm Sunday, April 5,1936 was the day of triumph for University Place Church. It was the day of dedication of the beautiful modern gothic structure built with careful thought to creating an atmosphere of wor- ship and spiritual uplift. As hundreds of people entered the sanctuary on that dark, showery morning they saw the cheering glow of the hanging lights, the colorful rose window high above the rich maroon velvet of the baptistry curtain, they saw the grace and beauty of the carved pulpit and sensed the Chris- tian fellowship portrayed by the Lord's Table standing in central posi- tion, and were reminded of the power of the cross by the beautifully wrought symbol on the table toward which all eyes were drawn. There was an uplift of spirit as eyes turned upward toward the great beams. The organist, Lanson F.Demming, played Faure's "The Palms" as the Or- gan Prelude, then came the sound of the new Deagan Chimes. The people joined lustily with the processional choir in singing "Holy, Holy, Holy." Then they realized that this new church is truly a place of worship. Dr. Stephen J.Corey of the United Christian Missionary Society, led the congregation in responsive Bible reading and gave the morning prayer. LaVon Coolman sang Malotte's "The Lord's Prayer." The congregation in the nave and an overflow crowd of about 400 in the downstairs Great Hall stood for the Dedication ceremony led by Mr. Fisher: Minister - Thus saith the Lord, I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place to Myself for a house of praise and of sacrifice. Congregation - For now I have chosen and hallowed this house, that My Name may be here forever; and Mine eyes and Mine heart shall be here perpetually. Minister - To the glory of God, our Father, by whose favor we have built this house; the honor of Jesus, the Christ, the One of the living God, our Lord and Savior; the praise of the Holy Spirit, source of life and Light. Congregation - We dedicate this house. Minister - For worship in prayer and song; for ministry of the Word; for the observance of the sacred ordinances; Congregation - We dedicate this house. Minister - For comfort to those who mourn; for strength to those who are tempted; for help in right living; Congregation - We dedicate this house. Minister - To the rftemory of our beloved dead; to the gentle and true of former times; to all who have unloosed the bonds of ignorance and wrong; Congregation - We dedicate this house. 91 Minister - To the ministry of the strong t the weak to the bringing of light in darkness to the giving of hope* courage, and spiritual health to all human hearts Congregation - We dedicate this house- Minister - To the proclamation of the truth that sets men free to the liberty of the sons of God, to reverence for all worth of the past and to the eager acceptance of all good which the future may unfold, Congregation - We dedicate this house. Minister - For the sanctification of the family, for the guidance of childhood; for the salvation of men Congregation - We dedicate this house. Minister - For universal peace and good will s for the training of con- science, for aggression against evil. Congregation - We dedicate this house. Minister - For help of the needy; for the promotion of brotherhood, for bringing in the Kingdom of God, Congregation - We dedicate this house. Minister and Congregation (together) - We dedicate this house in loving memory of those whose hearts and hands have given bountifully and have passed into their eternal reward s and with high hopes for those who will walk in fellowship with us in the days and years to come. Minister and Congregation (together) - We dedicate this house to the Glory of God, our Father, by whose will and blessings we have built this House, to the honor of Jesus Christ ; the Son of the living God. our Lord and Savior, to the praise of the Spirit of God and source of light and life. Dedicatory Declaration by Minister - I now solemnly declare this house to be dedicated to the work and worship of Almighty God and to our Lord.. Jesus Christ, May it be used always and only for Their honor and service; in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. - Amen. Mr, Fisher preached the Dedicatory Sermon entitled, "The Church and the Hour, " In the account of the Dedication services in the CHAMPAIGN NEWS GA- ZETTE, Fran Meyers said. "For more than thirty years Dr. Fisher has held this pastorate Eut his sermon of Palm Sunday. 1936, was more than just another sermon. It was that which a man gives when his dream has been completed. At a time when his people have had the faith and courage to overcome many difficulties in order that they may cross the threshold of a new experience , such as the dedication of a new church. His sermon was 92 one well worded filled with meaning, worth study and interpretation, one that comes directly from the shoulder. His words will linger long in the minds of those who sat out front." ^r Fisher said, "Men want a message today that will catch the ear and change the heart of the sinful win the mind of the scholar; satisfy the soul of the saint and meet the physical as well as the personal and spiritual needs of men "The real question of our day aie not speculative questions," he said, "They are terribly practical questions- Mere lie fundamental ques tions of social rights and social duties which men are asking today with greater earnestness than ever before, and in this fact stands the Chris- tian church' s wide open door to opportunity. "The spirit of God in this hour is seeking men and women in whom Christianity is more than a set of correct views, more than a system of philosophy men and women in whom it is a way of life, of discipline, of service and of utter self-commital to a career of unceasing service and of unlimited sacrifice." Mr. Fisher declared that the new man, the new nation and new world art: to be bought with a price - the price of conse crated lives 93 Chapter 32 Other Dedication Activities The church dedication activities continued over a period of eight days beginning on April 2 f 1936 with an All Church and Builders Recogni- tion Dinner in Great Hall. Mr J.R.Colbert was master of ceremonies and Dr.L. W„Wil liams , Chairman of the Church Board brought greetings to the builders. Responses were made by: Mr. A.F. Wickes. Consulting Architect Mr.E.N.DeAtley, General Contractor The Rev. Mr„ Herbert L-Miller„ Campus Ministers Mr. John Gray, Mayor of Urbana Mr. James D. Flynn, Mayor of Champaign Dr. Fisher spoke words of appreciation. There was an informal mixer and tours through the church. On Friday night, the Community and Student Young People led in the dedication of Great Hall. Donald Brownfield of Urbana presided, Chas.A. McDonald President of the Student Cabinet, spoke for the students and Helen F.Spaulding, former active worker in the Foundation gave the ad- dress of the evening. A play "The Forgotten Man" was presented on the new stage under the direction of Mrs. Ethel Dyer Hamilton (Brash), Public Speaking and Dramatics Director of the Urbana High School,. The formal dedication was given in these words, "To the religious ed- ucation of the youth of this church, and to the discovery of new inter- ests in Christian Living we dedicate this Great Hall." On Sunday afternoon following the great morning dedication service, Fellowship services was held at 3 P.M, Greetings were brought by„ The Illinois Christian Missionary Society - Rev. W. IT Walker, Bloomington f Illinois^ The Champaign County Ministers' Union - Rev.Adolph Bohn, Pastor of the Champaign Presbyterian Church. The Christian Churches and Pastors of Illinois - Rev. Carrel Flewelling Pastor of the Central Christian Church of Decatur,, Illinois The Campus and Twin City Churches - Rev. Walter Mai one Jr. The Christian Churches of the County - Rev.W,D. Sperry of St. Joseph, 111 The Christian Associations at the Campus - Mr, Henry Wilson General Sec- retary of the Y.M.C. A. , University of Illinois The Architects - Mr A.F. Wickes of Indianapolis Indiana Eureka College - Dr. Clyde L,Lyon, President. University of Illinois - Dean C.M.Thompson, College of Commerce Miss Nelle Stuart sang, "I Am Not Alone" by Wirich, and Levon Coolman sang, 'Open The Gates of the Temple" by Knapp. This service was followed by an informal "Open House" and a tea in the Myrtle Fisher Memorial Parlor, Under the direction of Mrs. Mabel Car- lock, student young people served tea and conducted visitors over the 94 building. Ruth Mosher and Louise Moskins were geno I a] ha:.:men, Others assisting were Chas -McDonald and Mabel Hofer reception Ralph Green and Margaret Leak service William D Hal 1 and Doiothy Segai music Mel vena Bray and Bernard Edwards tables Music was furnished by Lois Tay lor and Mrs. Alice Lee Bash, Monday evening April 6 1936 the Organ and Deagan Chimes were dedi cated following a recital by Mr Porter Heaps Organist of the New Eng land Congregational Church, Chicago and Assistant Organist of the Uni versity of Chicago, An Easter Cantata 'The Darkest Hour" by Ha old Moore was presented Tuesday evening by the church choir under the direction of Mr.Lanson F. Demming Organist and Director. Soloists were Bruce Foote, baritone tak ing the part of Jesus La Von Coolman 5 tenor, the part of Pilate Nelle Stuart soprano the Narrator and John Roberts bass the High Priest. At the close of this moving recital the Choir Section $f the church was dedicated by prayer and statement by the minister. The dedication of the educational rooms was held Wednesday, April 8, 1936. The program was planned ho interest the children and youth of the Sunday School, Miss Amy Beach Chairman of the Committee on Religious Education presided. Children and youth taking part were Jerry Reichaid. Bible Story ; Jacquelin Colbert prayer Deane White Consecration of Sub- stance Joseph Smith Consecration of Service Grace Lewis, Consecration of Self. A Song "Away in a Manger" was sung by the Beginners. Mrs. Geo. H, Dungan gave a story entitled "A Child Lent to the Lord," Teachers and officers made the dedication in unison I shall try in our new Church to give of myself freely and so live life at its highest to trust and o bey Him at all times to win others to His way through Love and Loyalty. Thursday evening, April 9 1936- A Union Passion Night Communion Ser vice was carried out in reverence and dignity in the new University Plae Church with ministers of the campus churches and their people partici pating. Rev. J. Walter Malone Jr., Pastor of McKinley Presbyterian Church gave the Communion sermon which was followed by dedication of the Com union Table and the serving of the Lord's Supper. Memorial Gifts Memorial gifts announced at the time of dedication and the donors were Rose Window - Mrs. F.K. Robeson in memory of her husband Triple Window - E.N.DeAtley in memory of his parents. Pulpit Somers Sunday School Class. Communion Table - E.M.Vennum and sister, Mrs. V. W.Johnston in memory of their parents, Mr. and Mrs, F. B. Vennum. Baptistry Prof . and Mrs. L. W. Wil liams in memory of the latter' s mother Anna Knowles Miller. 95 The Choir - Mrs Mae Dickinson, in memory of her Aunt,Lida Braden Swinford. South Entrance Lamp - Mis. Herbert Smith and sister Mrs. Olive Dickin- son, in memory of their parents, Mr. and Mrs Charles Phillips- Fireplace in Little Hall - Cap t. and Mrs R. G.Gher, in memory of Harold Wallace Gher. Chancel Curtain-Mr and Mrs.H.A ft'ascher in memo- y of Harold A.Wascher Jr. Morocco bound guest book - Mr. and Mrs.H A.Wascher in memory of Tommy Robert Wascher Double North Transcept Window - M.T.Trimble R,M Trimble Joe Trimble Mrs. C.P.Dobyns and Mrs T Henderson in memory of their parents Mr. and Mrs . W. W. Trimble - Memorial Parlor - Women's Council and Missionary Society in memory of Myrtle Stoner Fisher- Deagan Cathedral Organ, Chimes, and Conover Grand piano - Rev. S. E. Fish^» and sons in memory of Mrs. Fisher and hia parents, Mr. and Mrs M Fisher. 96 Chapter 33 The Adjustment And Outreach Of The Sunday School As the members of the Religious Education Committee began to study Sunday School class room assignments in the n^-w buLlding they realized as they had not fully lealized before that the i • w church with its educa tional wing was not large enough to house the school adequately. For a time, a number of -he children's classes were r.ent to the nearby Church liouse. This was not a happy solution, so later with the help of scieens four or five children's classes were located downstairs in the Great Kail and one on the stage, One of the dressing rooms Oil the stage be came the Nursery. In the Junior and Intermediate Departments boys and girls of each grade level were placed in on class instead of two as in the past, These classes met in second floor rooms. Church offices were used by two adult classes, The Somers and Mosher classes were united to become the Somers Mosher Clast>. Finally, with all space used to the limit, every class had a place to meet. The old Church House was no longer needed, and it was soon torn down and cleared away. There was then space for the new Foundation Building which had been a part of Mr, Fisher's dream for many years. During the four years the Sunday School classes were held in Lincoln Hal 1 , the teachers were unable to use special equipment because there was no place to store it between Sundays. But soon after removal to the new building, the Religious Education Committee began to study available modern equipment. A motion picture projector with sound equipment, a slide projector and screens were purchased. On the Visual Aids Committee were: Professor Neil Gai vey, whose position in the Division of Universi ty Extension dealt with such equipment Clarence Fuqua. who was familiar with visual aids in Champaign High School and Mrs. Warren Harris. .Mrs. Harris attended a number of state and regional conferences where she became acquainted with various kinds of visual aids which were avail able to churches. Study classes were conducted in the church to teach young men how to operate and care for the equipment. Later, Mr. Leslie Dunning, a local photographer, helped greatly in this program, When the teachers began to see the value of the eye in the teaching process, they made their rooms more attractive with curtains, pictures and simple worship centers. Teachers of small children were provided with cabinets in which to keep supplies and Mr. Edward Baker established a supply room in the small space under the stairway. Under the leadership of Mrs.L. W.Will iams , a church library was estab- lished in one of the smaller rooms on the second floor. It provided Teacher Training and Bible reference books and also books intended to 97 make the reader a better informed and more spiritually minded Christian. Mrs. Warren Harris, Mrs. George Dungan and Mrs .Walter S„ Adams have been librarians. Modern and attractive equipment caused more young people to become interested in teaching in the Sunday School. The recruitment of young teachers , some of whom had little experience, led the Religious Education Committee to feel that some supervision should be given to the work* Mrs. Warren Harris consented to work with the department superinteni- dents and teachers in planning the teaching program in the children's departments. She held regular planning meetings and gave oversight to the work on Sunday mornings . The volunteer work of Mrs. Harris was so successful that in January of 19 54, she was employed by the church to become Director of Religious Ed- ucation on a half-time basis. She broadened her work by supervising an- nual vacation Bible school programs and taking the responsibility of leadership in summer youth conferences. 98 Chapter 34 Music And Drama University Place Christian Church has the reputation of holding to a high degree of excellence in its music. The three ministers who have served the longest pastorates have understood and loved good music. Rev. S.S.Jones was widely known for his ability to sing beautiful solos. Before the time of the radio, Mr. Fisher had a phonograph and records by which he was able to enjoy symphonies and other good music in his home. He taught his sons to enjoy music with him. Mr.Jarman is well informed on the sacred music of both the ancient and modern church. He draws upon the wide field as he plans his worship services. He encourages his Direc- tor arid Choir to present programs of seasonal church music. Mr.Jarman is able to play both the piano and the organ. This church appreciates the fact that it is near the School of Music of the University of Illinois. From the time Lloyd Morey (President Emer- itus of the University of Illinois) was organist of the church in 1909 to the present capable directorship of Professor Paul Pettinga, the church has been debtor to both sta^f and students of the University. In 1903, when a new church was dedicated at the corner of Springfield and Wright Streets, Mr.O.K.Doney was director of the choir and Mrs. Vir- gil Johnston was pianist. When Dr„ Lloyd Morey was organist in 1909, Miss Lucy Kill was director and Dr. Cyril G.Hopkins, head of the Depart- ment of Agronomy, was chairman of the music committee. When the enlarged church was dedicated in 1911, Mrs. Johnston was organist and Mr.J.H.Kel- ley was Director. Miss Mabel Ruehe was organist and Professor Frank Tatham Johnson was director for a number of years during the early 1920s. Mr, Hartley fol- lowed Miss Ruege as organist. In the late 1920s, Mrs. Hazel Woodrow became both organist and direc- tor. She was unusually successful in creating a worshipful atmosphere. When she moved to Redlands, California in August of 1930, Mr. Fisher com- mended her highly, saying, "Mrs .Woodrow, without fuss or ostentation has achieved a very real success with our music. It has always been of high order and has unfailingly been a trbe help to worship." Lanson F Demming became organist and director in 1931. He was a teacher in the University School of Music, so it was very fitting that he was the one who played the fine organ for the services in Smith Music Hall during the four years the congregation met there. He served Univer- sity Place Church faithfully and capably until he moved to Texas in the late 1940s to take up full time work as Minister of Music in a large church. Verrollton C.Shaul, Director of Music in Champaign High School fol- lowed Mr. Demming. lie was particularly successful in attractive youth of 99 High School age to the choir. His expanding responsibility in public school music made it necessary for him to resign in 1949 The next Choir Master and organist was Professor Paul S.Pettinga. He has done an outstanding job of enlisting musical talent from the church and the School of Music. The Sunday by Sunday music is always good, but the special musical programs at Christmas and Easter are exceptionally well received. THE REDEEMER, an oratorio for Lent by Martin Shaw is a favorite of the congregation. It was first presented in 1950 and has been repeated several times. In 1956, it was presented by a forty-four voice Sanctuary Choir with Mr.Pettinga directing and Mary Jane Paul, Betty Gher Poor, Harold Johnson and Hagin Harper as soloists. Some of the soloist who have sung in University Place Church are: Mrs. George E.Amsbary Virginia Merrill Miss Lucy Protzman Sue Carol Carr Mrs. Bessie Skinner Nelson Leonard Mrs. Lloyd Morey Nelle Stuart Mrs. J.H.Kel ley Eruce Foote Mrs. Maurice Skelton Mrs. Bruce Foote Mrs. Frank T.Johnson Mrs. Glenn Poor, Jr. Vashti Zeigler (Temple) Emma Kay Bowers Mrs.C.S.Ricketts Hagin Harper Mrs. Roger Little Phyllis Murphy Glenn Bennett Mary Jane Paul Ann Young Bell Harold Johnson LaVon Coolman James Bailey Over a period of many years, Miss Lois Taylor was the capable, enthu- siastic pianist at many and varied church meetings. She was a joy to evangelistic singers. In 1949, Mrs. Clyde Work organized a boy's choir which she directed for about three years. DRAMA Mr. Fisher was always fond of drama and enjoyed participating in plays. His congregation was very proud of him when he took the part of Abraham Lincoln in a Fourth of July drama presented in the University Auditorium about 1915. With his black hair and an artificial beard, he was a strik- ing likeness of the great man he portrayed, but perhaps the most distin- guishing point was his Lincoln-like posture. A few years later, he took the part of the Stranger in The Passing of the Third Floor Back when it was presented in the auditorium of old University Place Church. The play which drew a large crowd was coached by Mrs. Ethel Hamilton (Brash) of the Urbana High School. Miss Lulu Meyers 100 Our organist and choirmaster Paul S Petiinga. Above He is at the console of the Reuter Organ at Wittenberg College and below at the organ in the U of I auditorium A native of Michigan he is a ggraduate of Obe-lin Conse^vaio ry During the war he flew 35 missions as a radioman over Germany He is a full Professor of Music at the U of I 4*mBuBmk. I wSBtm 1' tv A Children's Day program in our Sanctuary Mr EH Baker is making the presentation took the part of the boarding house landlady and Mrs . George Dungan played the part of Statia, the servant girl. Such activities caused Mr. Fisher to long to make more use of drama in the church. ^Ie was led to see how this might be accomplished by the e -lective work of Mrs.Wm.Lockhard wfe of Evangelist. Lockhart, during a series of meetings in 1930. A standing committee on drama was appointed consisting of Mrs*Ethel Hamilton Brash, Miss Marie Bennett. Miss Lulu Meyers, and Mrs. S.S.Wood From h ; time until the church was destroyed by fire, almost every Sunday evening service had a drama on its program. Various groups were encouraged to plan and present short plays. The con tent was always good, even though the acting may not have been the best. A play which was ready to present on the evening of March 6, 1932 (the day the church burned) was forever a lost play. One of the stated requirements of the plans for the new church wa^ a good stage with dressing rooms. These were built and they were used, but for the most part they have not been used for th< stated purpose:. For a number of years they were given over r o children's Sunday School classes and a nursery. 101 Chapter 35 The Church Recognizes The 35th Anniversary Of Dr. Fisher's Ministry The anniversary celebration committee headed by Prof . M. L.Mosher planned a series of meetings to be held June 26 and 27, 1938 to pay tri- bute to the work of Mr.Fishei over a period of 35 years. During the worship service on Sunday, June 26, Dr. Fisher took "Inter- pretations" as the subject of hij= a dress. Mr.Deming and the choir pre- sented "Hark, Hark My Soul" and Bruce Foote sang "The LordJs Prayer'" by Malotte. A section of the chin h was reserved for those who were members of the White Street Church when Mr. Fisher came. During the 7:30 P.M. meeting, representatives of many church groups spoke feelingly of Mr.FisherJs work and contributions to the church. At a luncheon on Monday, June 19, leaders among Disciples of Christ throughout Illinois were guests of the church. This gathering was pre- sided over by Or .R.E.Hieronymus who presented Mr. Fisher with a volume of congratulatory letters. Speakers were W.H. Walker, State Secretary, Illi- nois Christian Missionary Society; Rev. Carroll Flewelling, Minister of the Central Christian Church, Decatur; Rev. P. E.Henry of the State Eoard; Rev. II, H. Jenner Niantic Secretary of the State Convention of Christian Churches; Rev. D.J.Howe, Minister of the Washburn Christian Church Rev. Donald Salman, Minister of the Eureka Christian Church; Rev. Charles Tupper, Minis; of the First Christian Church, Springfield and also rep- resentatives of the University of Illinois Y.M.C.A.and Y.W.C.A. A meeting was held at 7:30 P.M. at which community and civic leaders paid high tribute to Dr. Fisher. Among the speakers was Dr. David Kinley. President Emeritus of the University of Illinois. 102 Chapter 36 Wore Evangelistic Meetings As a minister, Mr. Fisher was of an evangelistic nature even though his well thought out sermons were calmly del vered. A Lord's day seldom passed without at least one, many times more additions to the church. But even at that, much of the increase in membership of University Place Church grew out of preaching missions carried on for short periods dur- ing the Winter or Spring. Mr. Fisher looked forward to these periods of revival. So, to him, one of the joys of getting into the nes church building was the opportunity to have Preaching Missions. The first of these was held early in March, 1937. Rev. Aubrey Moore, Minister of one of the large north side Christian Churches of Indianapo- lis was engaged as preacher with Mr. Floyd Jones, a radio singer of Indi- anapolis as leader of music. Reverend Moore possessed a very friendly winning personality, was in- terested in people, exhibited an enthusiastic devotion to the church, de- livered his sermons rapidly and peppered them with sparkling humor. The people liked him at once. Ke led the church into a fine spiritual experi- ence. One hundred and nine new members joined the church during the 15 day mission, and 65 more united with the congregation before the end of the month. The 1938 Preaching Mission was led in April by Rev. Wm.II. McKinney of Wheeling, West Virginia (later Director of Men's Work, U.C.M.S.). He was assisted by Owen M.Walker, in charge of music and Mrs. Walker, pianist and Children's Worker. Dr.McKinney' s straight forward, impressive ser raons set his listeners to thinking. During this Preaching Mission 129 new members came into the church and 23 more during the following Easter services. Dr. Homer W. Carpenter Minister of the First Christian Church Louis- ville, Kentucky led a Preaching Mission March 10th to 24th 1940. Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Pollock, Musician and Children's Worker assisted. There were 95 new members added to the church during this series of meetings. This was the last Preaching Miss on conducted during Mr, Fisher s minis- try. In the years following, he gave concentrated thought to building a Foundation Building toward which he had already devoted much time and e- (Tort. However, he never ceased to enlist new members. Even during the last years of his ministry in University Place Christian Church, a morn- ing worship service never passed without an addition to the church. 103 Chapter 37 The Men* s Work The men of University Place Church have always been a strong force in the church's ongoing. From the time laymen and Rev.A.^L Page built the first little White Street Church with their own hands to the 1956 fruit- ful Visitation Evangelism Program, the men have been able and willing to organize themselves into an elective working unit. During the White Street Church days, there were periods when the church had no pastor and the men, under such leadership as that of George R. Shawhan and F. B. Vennum, carried on. When Rev. J . W. Knight became ill in 1902, the men not only con- ducted the church service but they continued a new building program as well . The first Every Member Canvass in University Place Christian Church for receiving pledges for the current expense fund was organized in 1914 under the leadership of Dean C M.Thompson. On Sunday afternoon, March 29, 1914, sixty-seven men met at the church to start on their task of visit- ing every home of the church. They stopped only long enough to have a group photograph taken, and went out, most of them on foot, to work un- til the task was finished. The canvass was so successful that it has been a task of the men each year for more than 40 years. For many years, how- ever, the home visitation for church pledges has been limited to the church members who for one reason or another failed to pledge on or be- fore a specified Sunday designated, Loyalty Sunday. During the pastor's vacation, usually in August, the men have conduct- ed the worship service, either with the assistance of guest preachers or by the use of talent from the membership. Dean C.M.Thompson was a fre- quent supply preacher. lie told the pulpit committee, "If you ever need a speaker on short notice, just let me know an hour ahead of time, and I shall help you out." Many other men, equally willing, but not so quick on preparation, filled in during emergencies and vacation periods. Not only did the men serve University Place Christian Church, but they ac- cepted invitations from neighboring churches. Boy Scout activities have always been the concern of the church. On the 4th of March, 1954, Troop 15 celebrated its 25th anniversary in Page Hall. Chairman of the Troop Committee was J.W.Pendleton; Scout Master was D.H.Stoltzfus and Assistant Scout Master was R.O.Weibe. On January 21, 1947, the men organized the Laymen's League of Univer- sity Place Christian Church and elected Glen E. Chapman President and Clarence Fuqua Secretary. This meeting was preceeded on December 4, 1946 by a meeting of men which was addressed by Garth Henrichs of Litchfield, the President of the 11 inois Christian Laymen's League. Meetings were held once a month for a time. Prominent leaders in Men's Work of our 104 brotherhood were guest speakers. They included W.H.McKinney, Mark Ruther- ford, Loren Hudson and Garth Henrichs, On March 31, April 1 and 2, 1947, R.H.Heicke, local chairman of Evangelism in the Crusade for a Christian World, led the Layman's League in a calling campaign wherein all church member prospects were visited. The next President of the Laymen's League was Earl Wagner, who was elected January 14, 194b\ At this meeting, the speaker was Rev. Robert E. Richards, a distinguished athlete, and Associate Pastor of the Church of the Brethren in Champaign. On April 14, 19 48, the League sponsored an outstanding Father-Son Banquet in the church at which W.H.McKinney was the guest speaker. In 1949, the functions of the Laymen's League were delegated to a com- mittee on Men's Work and thus made a part of the activities of the Church Board. The Chairman of this committee for 1955-1956 was Clarence V.Wilson University Place Christian Church observed Laymen's Sunday on October 27, 1946, which was the first time that our brotherhood had participated in National Laymen's Day. Seven men shared in the morning worship service that day. They were: Paul E.Johnston, Donald E.V a nce, Sigel C. Davis. Rob- ert R.Hudelson, Glen E. Chapman, and Martin L.Mosher. Since then, this sig- nificant day has been recognized by the laymen having some part in the service. During the week following March 13, 1949, the men of University Place Church participated in a Workshop of Visitation Evangelism under the leadership of Lyle Newman of the United Christian Missionary Society. This experience was an "eye opener" to everybody. Instead of merely in- viting prospective members to attend services, the prospects were asked to sign a card indicating their desire to become a member of the church and specify a date when they would present themselves for formal induc- tion into the church. This approach worked amazingly well. For instance, on October 13, 1951, just ahead of the special meeting led by Ira Lang- ston, the men made 113 interviews and obtained 32 decisions. The young men were somewhat more elective in obtaining a favorable response than some of the older men. The men have continued this program of Visitation Evangelism every year since it was started. The most successful campaign was in the Spring of 1955 when 147 new members were added to the church. Two lay members of University Place Church played significant roles as leaders during the decade 1940 to 1950. These were Rev. L.G. Huff and Rev. R.H.Heicke, They brought to their task the experience and training of many years in the ministry and their deep desire to serve the cause to which they had dedicated their lives. Mr. Huff was Chairman and Mr. Heicke served as Stewardship Chairman with special interest in offer- ings for missions. During the latter part of this period, Mr, Heicke also 105 served as Chairman of the Committee on Evangelism. The church owes these faithful leaders a debt of gratitude. The most significant service rendered by the men of University Place Church is that connected with the regular observance of the Lord's Sup- per. In the early years of the church's history, the elders offered the prayers of thanksgiving for the emblems. From 1932 to 1936, when worship services were held in Smith Memorial Hall seven elders participated in the observance of the communion. One elder presided and two elders served at each of the three communion tables. Eeginning on Palm Sunday in 19 36 ; the day of the Dedication Service of the new church, the form of the communion service was improved. Dr. Fisher presided and offered both prayers. Four elders distributed the emblems to the deacons. This communion procedure has continued under Rev.Jarman's ministry. Each year, the 18 elders elect a Chairman whose function is to pre- pare an assignment of duties for each elder. In addition to serving at the Lord's Table, the elders greet worshippers as they enter the narthex and also as they depart from the sanctuary at the end of the service. El ders also take communion to ' shut- ins" in the afternoon of the first Sun- day of each month. University Place Christian Church has had a large board of deacons through the years. Mr. Fisher always liked to have 16 deacons, and when the audience was above average size, 18 deacons at each service. With the present two worship services, the number of worshippers at any one service is less than formerly, but Rev.Jarman likes at least 12 deacons in the line-up at each service. In order to guarantee smooth functioning, a Chairman has been appointed for each Sunday. His task is to fill all vacancies in the line-up of deacons and assign duties. The service ren- dered by the person in charge of the deacon3 is very important. Among the men who have held this post of the years are Claude Chapman, Frank Padfield, Sam S.Wood : Cloyd Hogans, Grover Doyle, Claude Mitchell, Rus- sell Powers, J.W.Pendleton, Robert Beals and many others. The smooth op- eration of the mechanics incident to the administration of the communion service is in no small measure due to the efficiency and deep sense of responsibility with which the deacons carry out their task. 106 Above The first dinner of the Men' s Club seated Dr. George Dungan Julian Wallace Chairman, W J Jarman: Standing Frank H^Beach, Mr Boberts (the speaker), M,L,Mosher Howard Morrow Below Our men have always done much of the maintenance of the building. Here Somers-illosher Class paints a class room-. L to P.- Walter Sinnott Quentin Schwab Cecil Beicherd, Kenneth Weaver and Bussell Powers, At the Right Mrs .Coldie .lessee and Mrs P. E Hieronymus MrSoH.H, Criesheimer Mrs Ben Baldwin, MrsJ ! FGundlock Above Mrs, Donald Merritt, Mrs, Walter Miebach, MrsJLJ.Leichner, Mrs MB Willman Below: Mrs. Lilly Crowl . Mrs Tom Henderson^ Mrs, , S« Evans. ir-# Chapter 38 Reverend Fisher Re-Married Stephen E.Fisher and Miss Vira Richards were married at 10 o'clock on the morning of September 10 1938 at the Fisher residence on Daniel Street, Champaign. Dr„R. E.Hieronymus, Community Advisor, Emeritus, of the University of Illinois and minister and elder of the Christian Church read the double ring ceremony in the presence of the bride's mother, Mrs. H. C. Richards- members of the pastor's household; and a few officials of University Place Christian Church Miss Richards had been secretary in the church olice and assistant to Mr, Fisher since 1913. Immediately following the service, Mr. and Mrs. Fisher drove to Quincy, Illinois to a tend the sessions of the a nual State Convention of the Christian Churches of Illinois. They returned to the Fisher home at 507 East Daniel Street whe? e they made their home for a time. Later, they made their home in the Urbana Lincoln Hotel in Urbana. firs. Fisher continued her work as church secretary. 107 Chapter 39 Church Debt Reduction The church building indebtedness was well financed through the Demsey Loan Company and the amount steadily reduced. For a number of years, Dr. Paul E.Johnston was the careful overseer of this phase of our church work. He kept the congregation well informed about the standing of the debt. Often he made reports such as the following to hand out to the mem- bers at annual meetings and on other occasions. January 1, 1938 Obligations Amount Paid Ealance to pa at Dedication Since Dedic :ation Church Furniture S 6,122.26 $ 1,600.00 ■U, 522. 26 Architects 5,365.33 450.00 4,915.33 General Contractor 9,489.99 9,234.31 225.68 Deaf Aid Equipment 600.90 600.90 Paid in full Chairs 383.81 383.81 Paid in full Heating 2,975.44 2,079.20 894.24 Electrical Work 391.19 391.19 Paid in full Organ (electrical) 2,020.68 2.020.68 Paid in full Gas Ranges 554.85 554.85 Paid in full Office Furnishings 881.81 813.81 75.00 Green Tables 535.60 535.60 Paid in full Great Hall Flooring 828.52 828.52 Paid in full Lighting Fixtures 1,095.00 994.00 101.00 Landscaping 404.60 404.60 Paid in full Dishwasher 523.15 523.15 Paid in full Dishes 1,064.55 808.38 256. 17 Awnings 148.78 148.78 Paid in full Study Furnishings 199,59 199.59 Paid in full Misc. Furnishings 613.52 618.52 Paid in full Personally secured 5,211.00 Prin. Notes 35, 325.00 2,895.96 Int. 30 : 114.00 Dempsey Loan 50 : 000.00 1,000,00 Prin. 3,893.45 Int. 49,000.00 Good Will Notes 17 , 650.00 5 125.00 12,125.00 After the debt was taken over by the Dempsey Loan Company, it was re= financed every three years and new pledges taken to extend over another three years. When national economic conditions had improved. Dr. Paul Johnston and Mrs. F, L. Skel ton, co-chairmen of the Building Finance Committee, con- ceived the idea of encouraging some organizations of the church to re- tire bonds faster than the church had agreed to do by contract with the 108 loan company. The Women's Coun- i] of which Mrs.Ske.lton was President, became enthusiastic about this plan and served meals and did other work to earn money. Their regular pledge at this time was $1 500 a year but for several years the women paid in more than $3 r 000 a year even reach ing $3,900 in two di Cerent years, The men of the church under the lead ership of Dr .0. L. Whal in . promoted a debt reducing campaign in December for a number of years. When Rev. W. J. Jarman came as minister in 1948, twelve years after the dedication, the building debt war down to about ^50 t 000 in contrast to the 1136,000 at dedication in '936. At the Fellowship Dinner in the church. March 18 1953, the assembled members and friends witnessed the burning of the mortgage and note on the church, (see picture) It was twenty-one years since the former Uni - versity Place Christian Church building burned. It marked the culmina tion of a protracted effort not to restore A T hat had been lost, but to build anew on a higher level of beauty and efficiency. 109 Chapter 40 Dr. And Mrs. Fisher Retired July 1 1948 In the summer of 1947, Dr. Fisher sent his resignation to the Church Board asking to retire July 1, 1948 at the age of 77 years, after 45 years as pastor of University Place Christian Church. Mrs. Fisher sent a resignation asking retirement at the same time after 35 years as church secretary and assistant to the pastor. Both resignations were accepted. The church began at once to make plans to express its appreciation to these two leaders who had served faithfully over a combined period of 80 years. It was decided to hold an all church banquet at which words of ap- preciation could be expressed and the church's gift of gratitude and es- teem could be presented. This banquet was the climaxing i¥8fit of a series of retirement programs to honor Dr. and Mrs. Fisher. The leading article on page three of the June 10 , 1948 issue of THE NEWS GAZETTE carried big headlines: REVEREND FISHER TO RETIRE WITH NEW TITLE, NEW CAR." This article described the retirement banquet which was served to about 500 people in the Great Hall of the church Wednesday eve- ning, June 9, 1948. Accompanying the article was a picture showing Dr. Fisher, Col. Ralph Gher„ who was toastmaster of the occasion- Reverend Carroll Flewelling of Decatur, representing the Christian Churches of Illinois, and Dr.H. Clifford Northcott of the Champaign Methodist Church who spoke on behalf of the ministers of Champa ign-Urbana, A number of speakers gave personal tributes. Attorney John Franklin characterized Dr. Fisher as "pastor of the community, not just the church" mentioning that Dr. Fisher gave counsel to people of other churches and to people outside the church. Mr. T.O. Henderson, elder of the church who had known Dr. Fisher for 45 years s said he was a pastor who never said, "quit." George Dungan, who had known the Fishers for 35 years spoke of them as "hard workers" who always gave help when the going was hard. Mrs. 0. S. Evans, who had taught in the Sunday School for 40 years, wished for 40 more years to "work with the Fishers. " C.M.Thompson, Dean Emeritus of the University of Illinois College of Commerce moved that Dr. Fisher be named "Minister Emeritus" upon retiring. His motion was immediately seconded and adopted unanimously by the con- gregation. Mr. Fisher, responding to the tributes, said, "I have been in almost every conceivable situation before, except this one at my retirement ban- quet. We do not deserve your tributes but we like them." In reminiscing, Dr. Fisher recalled coming to University Place Church at the age of 32 with his first wife and their two children. lie gave high praise to Myrtle Stoner Fisher who was his help and strength until her death in 1933. He 110 also praised Mrs.Vira Richards Fisher who was his loyal helper in the church ofTice since 1913. He referred to his successor, Wnru.J.Jarman who too, would come to the pastorate at the age of 32 years. The coincidence of age apparently impressed and pleased Mr. Fisher very much. He asked the congregation to pray that the work might go on well. During the worship service the last Sunday of Reverend Fisher's minis try, the women of the Women's Council unveiled an oil portrait of Dr. Fisher and presented it to the congregation. The portrait was the work of C.E.Bradbury, Professor of Art and the University of Illinois. Ill Chapter 41 A New Pastor Is Selected A few weeks after Dr. Fisher presented his resignation to the church, Dr. Paul E.Johnston, Chairman of the Church Board, asked the members of the board to send him written suggestions concerning their desires about the personnel and chairmanship of the pulpit committee. Guided by these suggestions, the following was appointed to recommend a new minister to the board: George H.Dungan, Chairman of the Committee J.R.Colbert Robert R. Hudelson Mrs.M.L.Mosher Paul Peach E.H.Regnier Mrs.B. E.Wimer Paul Johnston, ex officio This committee met every Sunday evening for three or four months, first studying the needs of the church and then defining the qualities they wished to find in a new minister. Out of these conclusions, they com- posed a questionaire, copies of which were sent to several national leaders of the brotherhood, to a few college presidents and to a number of State Secretaries asking for names of prospective ministers who might have the qualifications. More than 100 names were mentioned. By corres- pondence and personal investigation, the list boiled down to twelve pros- pective ministers. Then., a questionaire, based on one prepared by the Illinois State Secretary, was sent to each of the twelve. Some were not interested, feeling they should not leave the positions they then held. Seven expressed a desire to be considered and answered the ques- tionaire in detail. The committee members studied the returns and ob- tained further information from references supplied by the ministers. Af- ter a careful appraisal of all the candidates, the committee members listed their preferances by written vote. William Jackson Jarman, Minis- ter of the First Christian Church in Mexico, Missouri was the first choice of the committee. In early May, five members of the committee and Dr. Paul E.Johnston, Chairman of the Church Board, made a surprise visit on Mr. Jarman in his pulpit in Mexico, Missouri. They were pleased with Mr. Jarman and in the afternoon, they had a personal visit with him and Mrs. Jarman in their home. The Jarmans were willing to come to Champaign-Urbana for a visit at a time when arrangements could be made. The committee reported their visit and impressions to the May meeting of the Church Board. The feeling was unanimous that Mr. Jarman was a £ood choice and that he would meet the approval of the congregation. Arrange- 112 ments were mad*:-. So?- Mr. and Mrs.Jarman r o visit University Pla e on Sun day, May 23, "1943 and foi him to fill the pulpit at tha* time. The congregation which heard Mr. Jar man that Sunday morning in May was also pleased. On the afternoon of that same day the pulpit committee recommended to the Church Board in a called meeting that William Jackson J arman be the new minister, The recommendation wa - ; accepted unanimously by the board and an hour later it. was accepted by the ■ hurch in a congre gational meeting in the church sanctuai y. The following day, the contract was signed by Mr, J arman and the church officials for the new ministry to b, gin August I 1948. Both Mr. and Mrs.Jarman are graduates of the University of Missouri he graduating in English with distinction" in 1937 and she receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1942. Mr. Jarman received a Bachelor of Divinity degree from Union Theologi cal Seminary in 1940 and later did graduate work in Counseling at the University of Missouri. He was Chaplain in the Navy during 1942-46., The "home church" of Mr. end Mrs.Jarman is Country Club Christian Church of Kansas City, Missouri, 113 Chapter 42 The Passing Of Stephen E Fh Reverend Stephen E. Fisher Minister Emeritus /ersity Place Church passed away at 11:45 AM. Thursday July 13 1950 at the Mayo Clinic Rochester, Minnesota at the age of 79 years. He had been at the clinic about a week after driving up with Mrs. Fisher foi his annual phy sical check-up. He had complained of a stomach ailment before going to Ro chester but his death was unexpected and sudden. He had planned to re turn to Champaign Urbana to make a report a the annual meeting of the Illinois Disciples Foundation Board on July 18. He had remained active as P:< emotional Secretary of the Foundation since his retirement as pas tor of University Place Church Ln L948. Last rites were held in Un persity Place Church at 2 P.M., July 18. About 700 persons crowded ini o the church to pay their respects to Dr. Fisher in a short simple service. Re v. W.J. Jai man, pastor of the church had charge. Professor Paul Pettinga presided at the organ and Professor Bruce Foote sang 'The Lord's Prayer" ai the conclusion of the service. Lawrence L.Bennett minister to students "read scripture and offered a p r aye r . Mr.Jarman in his tribute spoke of Mr. Fisher as a Friend at large.' Multitudes loved him and will miss him. Dr. Fisher was referred to as a "tireless" and "ceaseless" worker right up to the end. TTie speaker said, a Dr. Fisher never le< the problems hide the possibil ities. He was a man both of gr.:at patience and great dreams. He never be- trayed his visions and how many of them came true! "In his life the fruits of the Holy Spirit came to ripeness. He has a monument in our lives and in this church." Eurial was in Mt.Hope Cemetary. 1.14 This picture of Dr. Fisher in the pulpit was taken shortly before his death in 1950 by Leslie Dunning. William Jackson Jarman became paster on August 1, 1948 Here he is examining a book in the church study. SvUW/fciam 3c | P-rg^^ted^Pp^B| dbreakmg for Si U1C k,LUUent center cuiiding abo^e. and laying the cornerstone below. •man. C X5>* J iiller David Siank; Harris. Russell Dikc^J| Piabon Rose, J.R ColkerVMenneth John 9. •W ip M Below Mr Jarman presents certificates of emeritus membership to Dr and Mrs .George H Dung an the Sunday before they sailed to India Witnessing are Arthur Mosher former principal of Allahabad Agricultural Institute William D Hall former missionary to India and Pauline Varner, mission- ary candidate S a Bo Uerwuim 5 s ^_Regm^u Ce&vv-e Ujnnur^q Qc/uim GPi-ee&eman, OWi/&e& G, lUc&i/uie ^o&dph % flew/fry. Vaxa&Mj H. £Wvam the state. Six others are chosen, one each by the six District Conven- tions of the state. Their term of office is three years. The other two in elude the person who is minister of University Place Christian Church and the person who holds fcKe office ^of State Secretary T 6f tire Illinois Christian Missionary Society. At the time the building of the Foundation Student Center was begun, Eoard members of the Foundation included: Mr.Weddall Trenchard, Del and Rev. Charles Day, Taylorville Mrs. John El lift, Emeritus, Pekin Mr. A.B.Dennis, Emeritus, Danville Rev. Earl Scarbeary, Rantoul Mr. Kenneth Gorden, Blue Mound Rev .All an Estill, Mt.Carmel Dean W.B. Blakemore, Chicago Mr. Harold Whitman, Cameron Mrs. W. F. Gammill , Gays Mr. Kenneth Johnson, Sullivan Rev. Colin J.Robertson, Macomb Mr. Walter Williams, Benton Dr.Aretas W.Nolan, Emeritus, Ithaca, N.Y. Rev. Chester Kensley, State Secretary, Bloomington Mrs .C. F. Close, Kankakee Rev. Raymond Alexander, Peoria Mr. Thomas G.Braden, Central ia Rev. James Hempstead, Central ia Dr. George H.Dungan, Emeritus, Urbana Dean Robert R. Hudelson, Urbana Mr. J. R. Colbert, Urbana Dean Charles M.Thompson, Emeritus, Champaign Mr. Paul Peach, Champaign Prof. Warren S.Harris, Urbana Mr. Elmer Bash, Champaign Mr. Glen E. Chapman, Urbana Dr. Paul E.Johnston, Urbana Rev. William Jackson Jarman, Champaign 119 Chapter 45 Growth Of The Church The proper measure of a church's condition is the spiritual stature of its members. Individuals grow in spiritual attainment and, if the con- cepts and practices of the same individuals could be assessed from time to time, evidence of growth might be shown. This is difficult to do how- ever, and even if it were possible, the results would have little mean- ing. Changes in membership lessen the value of the religious census as a guide to spiritual growth. In other words, removal by death and other- wise, might reduce the spiritual level at any specified time, and yet the present members might be making significant strides forward. Attendance records constitute as good an index to the effectiveness of a religious program as any we have. Being entirely voluntary as partici- pation in the church's program is, the mere attendance of people reveals an interest of sufficient depth to bring them out. It is a case of faith being shown by works. Since 1930, the men in charge of ushers at University Place Christian Church have made a careful count of the people in attendance at each wor- ship service. The records which have been carefully kept constitute a valuable barometer of the church's life. Figure I is a graphic presentation of the average church attendance by years for the period 19 31 through 1955. The average attendance in 1931 was 429. In March, 1932, the church building burned and worship services wer held in beautiful Smith Memori- al Music Hall at the University of Illinois. Eeing deprived of its build- ing did not reduce the attendance the first year, but instead, actually increased it to 449. This upswing in attendance may be attributed to the activity of the membership in its efforts to finance and state the build- ing of a new church edifice. The next three years, however, saw a decline in numbers at the worship services, reaching a low of 384 in 1935. Most of the services in 1936 were held in the newly completed build- ing of University Place Church, and getting into its own quarters, seem- ingly, stimulated new inte est. The average attendance rose from 384 in 1935 to 416 in 19 36; and this figure continued to rise during the next two years reaching the high figure of 502 in 1938. Attendance dropped to 445 in 1939 and continued with minor fluctuations until 1945 when it sank to 416, the lowest point it had ever gone in the new building. In 1946, attendance rose again to 439 and in 1947 to 446 which was on a level with the years 19 39 to 1944. With the coming of William Jackson Jarman as minister in 1948, aver- age attendance rose to 488, even though his active ministry did not be- gin until the first of August of that year. Average attendance declined 120 Left Dousa I'lh/ujM. ■t/fbe C y.. 3. Below: facte cwxl /fiM/ne a c/v^ 'p^om -tfte 0. y* 3. a/nd GIVv ; ano /-. Above: The C.Y.F. invite their parents to a party in McBride Hall, Above A Nursery Christmas party Below C. Y. F. Banquet, Fall of '56, Dawn Wright presiding m t Receiving new members into the church Mr Sellards presenting the offering at the Table 600 MINISTRY OF STEPHEN FISHER 350 300 O _Li SMITH MUSIC HALL _i_L MINISTRY OF W.J.JARMAN TWO WORSHIP SERVICES NEW CHURCH BUILDING '931 193 5 ' ' ' ' .jio ' ' ' ' .jw' ' ' ' .g ' so ' ' ' ' wJg ' AVERAGE CHURCH ATTENDANCE 1931-1957 Carl Golvin was the first stude: Minnje Vautrin . below war nissionary to go fro;; adents, She sei tia. K&tL--' - ~ v. li Ul *~tyg£& 1 *li# CWidrtet^ '^j^I 3 ^^ ' t " a ^ \B |CJ55 ■ ••£"■*■* U|l |r ' 1 3fie Gc>TAmervta^ : George Patterson, Rick Jirrard David Shaul Tod Dawson, singing at the CYF Spring Banquet May 19. 19 57, in 1949 and again in 19 50, reaching the low point of 434. At the bef ning of June, 1951, Re*. J arm an e next two years. 1955 saw a fur the I in crease in attendance, reaching the all -.ime record high average of 522. In the beginning, the early worship service was very poorly attended. The average number of people piesent in 1951 was only 49, In 1952.. this figure rose to 103 in 1953 to 116 in 19 54 to 130 and in 19 55 to 177. The average attendance at the 10:45 A.m. service declined as the early service attendance increased but not to the same degree. On some Sun- days, the number in the early service exceeded that at the 10 45 A.M. The combined services made a total which was higher for the year than a single service evei had. Another criterion of growth is money expended in the program. A few- comparisons will show that University Place Christian Church has grown in contributions of money for carrying on its local enterprises as well as to auses in the Frotherhood. The purchasing power of money has de- clined but not so much as the amount expended has increased. Certain com- parisons are presented in the following table: Data from University Place Christian Church copied out of the 1935 and 1955 yearbooks of the Disciples of Christ 19 35 1955 Comparison Members 10 25 1327 1 1/4 times Local Expense $15,387.23 $62,288.98 4 times Unified Promotion Offering Church $248.46 $2,357.96 9 times Church School 95.00 1,754.9.0 L8 times Chr i s t i an Women ' s Fe 1 1 ow ship 476.75 650.00 1 1/3 times Total 1,554.57 13,465.46 QY 2 times Per Capita 1.17 10.15 QY 2 times 121 Chapter 46. The Ministry of William Jackson Jarman When William Jackson Jarman became pastor of University Place Chris- tian Church August 1, 1948 he assured Mr. Fisher and the congregation in the loyal manner of a Navy man that "all present orders remain in effect. " Mr. Fisher rejoiced at this declaration. The young minister and the retir- ing minister spent hours discussing the outlook and outreach of the work of University Place Church and Illinois Disciples Foundation. Together they dreamed dreams and saw visions and became close friends. Mr. Fisher was inspired to begin journeys over the state as promotional secretary for the Foundation, and Mr. Jarman lent himself to the task of becoming acquainted with his new congregation which he accomplished in an amazing- ly rapid fashion. The people eyed Mr. Jarman as he went about his duties in a sturdy, matter-of-fact way. Ihey came to hear him preach and liked the unusual analysis of the Christian Way of Life. In business matters the officials of the church were impressed by the straight forwardness of his speech and the wisdom of his judgments. He showed much maturity for a man of his age. Even though their personalities differed greatly the church felt that Mr. Jarman was a worthy successor of Mr. Fisher. As eight years of Mr. Jarman' s pastorate are reviewed nothing but a steady progress toward a more earnest, intelligent, Christ-centered church can be noted. Pooks representing the best in religious literature have been put in the library and placed on sale in the church office, and in the narthex on Sunday. The MESSENGER became a 4— page church paper in which were published materials to acquaint members with the plans and activities of the local church and also of Unified Promotion. Often an outstanding religious book was reviewed. Letters from our Link mission- aries were published. Church officers, and Sunday School teachers were installed at worship services to cause workers to realize their personal responsibility to- ward the work of the church. Often young children were blessed and young parents consecrated to their Christian duties in the home. Membership development was emphasized. Fellowship dinners were in- stituted where members became better acquainted, and received spiritual uplift by listening to talks of various leaders of our national work. Calling was organized so that new members and "shut-ins" might be cared for more adequately. October 15, 19 5C , Reinhold Miebuhr was guest minister at the morning worship service. 122 Below Mr Jarman speaking to the Junior Department at the first worship sc in Fisher Chapel '<• \ ■"'■■" ■avr 1 9b mmhhB in ii ■J. ■" : . kJlJi | %% 11 st n * ■ * * M -■*- * i46ove. /(irk Class in 1956 Below Third year Primary Class in 1953 Top row: Mrs .Warren Harris. Children Division superintendent Mr Jar man- Mrs Leslie Dunning tea .her Above Beginners Department in 1957 Below: The first worship service held in Fisher Chapel was by the Junior Department on Sunday , April 25 195U Two Displaced Persons families was provided for and established as self-supporting people of the community. They were the Tudor Dimonfs of Bulgaria and the Michael Riegel family of Yugoslavia. Children of the church through Sunday School offerings supported Moise Julien Voile in Valenciennes, France, and Panayiotis Koufoudakis and Georgia G.Angelopou- lou in Greece for several years. In June of 19 51 the church began its program of presenting two wor- ship services each Sunday morning. In 19 55 the church held a pre-Easter prayer vigil which continued from 7 A.M. to 10 P.M.Monday through Friday with 225 members participa- ting. The congregation received great spiritual uplift and requested that a prayer vigil be held annually. Mr.Jarman has shared his abilities with our brotherhood's state and national work. He served as district secretary of the Illinois Christian Missionary Society, and also as a trustee and president of the Society; in 1948 he was elected to the Board of Managers of the United Christian Missionary Society; has been the vice-president of the Eoard of Higher Education; a member of the Post-Crusade Committee of Unified Promotion; a Commissioner of the Association for the Promotion of Christian Unity, and vice-president and president of its successor, the Council On Christ- ian Unity; and trustee of the Disciples Divinity House of the University of Chicago. Our pastor has also held important positions in interdenominational organizations. In 1949 he was delegate to the Triennial Assembly of the Federal Council of Churches. Our Church was honored by Mr.Jarman' s appointment as chairman of the accredited visitors representing the Dis- ciples of Christ in the meeting of the World Council of Churches Assembly in Evanston, Illinois, in 1954. Me has also served as president of the Champaign -Urban a Ministerial Association. As University Place Christian Church with Illinois Disciples Foun- dation approaches the 75th Anniversary of the church it can rejoice in the fact that there are adequate facilities, strong leadership, and great opportunities for exerting more and more Christian influence in the local community, on the campus of the University of Illinois, and in national and world situations. 123 Appendix THJSTEES The Church of Christ or The Christian Church of Champaign (fore-runner of University Place Christian Church) Elected May 4, lb84 — "to serve until successors are duly elected. George R. Shawhan Mary E.IIiserodt James Funkhouser Elder James Mcfviil len , acting chairman December 22, 1902 Oliver K.Doney gave adidavit of business meeting and election to S.A.Blaine - NP CCl August 10, 190 2 Church took name of The Chris t ion Church University Place. Trustees elected: J. F. White - 1 year F.K.Robeson - 2 years F. B. Vennum - 3 years Later elections, usually at annual congregational meetings in January up to 1952. The 19 52 annual meeting and those following were held in May, 1932 - T.E.Curtis 1933 - T.G. Henderson 1934 - M.L.Armstrong 1935 - T.E.Curtis 1936 - T.O. Henderson 1937 - Smith Wise gar ver 1938 - T.E.Curtis 1939 - T.O.Henderson 1940 - Smith Wise gar ver 1941 - T.E.Curtis 1942 - T.O. Henderson 1943 - Smith Wisegarver 1944 - T.E.Curtis 1945 - T.O.Henderson 1946 - Smith Wisegarver 1947 - T.E.Curtis 1948 - T.O.Henderson 1948 - George H.Dungan 3 yrs 3 yrs 3 yrs 3 yrs Q yrs yrs 3 yrs 3 yrs 3 yrs 3 yrs yrs 3 yrs .) yrs 3 yrs 3 yrs 3 yrs 2 yrs 3 yrs 124 1949 - Smith Wise gar ver 3 yrs 19 50 - T. 0. Henderson 3 yrs March 19 50 - M. L.Mosher 2 yrs Jan. 19 51 - George H.Dungan 3 yrs June 1951 -Paul Peach 3 yrs June 1951 - Charles McBride 2 yrs June 1951 - Russell Duncan 1 yr. May 1952 - Glen Chapman 3 yrs 19 52 - M. L.Mosher 3 yrs 1952 - Russell Duncan 1 yr. 1953 - Charles Mc Bride 3 yrs 1953 - Paul Johnston 2 yrs 1954 - Frank Eeach 3 yrs 19 54 - Paul Johnston 3 yrs 19 55 - M. L.Mosher 3 yrs 1955 - Glen Chapman 3 yrs 19 56 - Russell Duncan 3 yrs 19 56 - O.L.Whalin 3 yrs 1956 - Gifford Hall DEACONS 1 yr. Some deacons serving before 1913 James Funkhouser Theo. Sk inner Will McLaughlin H.C. Barnes James Shawhan J.P.Leasure George S.Dillon II. S.Piatt A.M. Havard Will Swartz E.L.Murdock Luther Armstrong Oliver Harris George Kaufman Homer Dawsonn 1.0. lender son E. E.Higgins G. E. Amsbary C.C. Chapman F.B. Vennum F.K.Robeson J.F.White BUILDING COMMITTEES 1902 Seeley brown, Architect English Bros., Contractors 125 1911 E. L.Murdock W.M.Konn Stephen E.Fisher F. D. Vennum G. E. Amsbary Charles Kill F.K.Robeson A. L. Vorhies Elias Pruitt 19 33 J.H.Eversole George II. Dungan T. 0. Henderson Richard Johnston L.W.Williams Smith V'isegarver Ralph Gher Architects: Lerger, Kelly Ramey Consul ting Architect: A. F. Wickes Contractor: E. A. DeAtley SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS George R. Shawhan F. B. Vennum Elmer Harris C. M.Thompson Jack Newlin M.J.Fluck George K. Dungan L.W.Williams Miss Amy Leach A.W.Nolan Ida Mae Irwin W.S.Adams No superintendent for Mrs. George II.Dungan A.I1. Lauchner Cl ark Youmans No superintendent for C. E. Summervil le 1883 - - probably 1902 About 19G2 1906 - . ? About 12 15 to about 19 18 About 1918 1920 1921 - - 1922 1923 19 24 1925 (employed Religi LOUS Education director 1926) (part time employee) about 1930 time about 19 32 about 1940 1942 time 1948 126 ELDERS 1883 - 1893 George R. Shawhan James McMillen Cyrus Strong Cyril G.Hopkins E.J. Stanley Joseph Jutton 1893 - 1903 George R. Shawhan Cyril G. Hopkins E.J. Stanley Joseph Jutton F. E. Vennum 1903 - 1913 George R. Shawhan Cyril G. Hopkins E.J.Stanley F. B. Vennum W.M.Honn N.E. Garver CM. Thompson A.W.Nolan Kenning Jacobsen 1913 - 1923 George R. Shawhan F. B. Vennum W.M.Honn N. B. Garver CM. Thompson A.W.Nolan Elmer Harris R.E.Hieronymus George H.Dungan L.W.Williams L. CCox J. H. Eversole M.J.Fluck 1923 - 19 33 A. W.Aolan R. E.Hieronymus George H.Dungan L.W.Williams L.C.Cox J.H. Eversole W. S.Adams M.I.Coldwell F.H. Beach P. E.Johnston M.L.Mosher A.H.Lauchner Charles St. John T.O.Henderson 19 33 - 1943 A.W.Nolan George H.Dungan L.W.Williams L.C.Cox J.H.Eversol e F.H. Beach P. E.Johnston M.L.Mosher A.H.Lauchner Charles St. John T.O.Henderson C.E. Pollard Stanley Smith J. R. Colbert O.L.Whalin R.R.Hudelson L.G.Huff R.H.Heicke R.G.Gher C.M.Thompson, Emeritis Smith Wisegarver, Honorary 127 ELDERS fcCon't) 19 43 - 19 53 George H.Dungan L.W.Williams F.H. Beach M.L.Mosher A. H. Lauchner T. 0. Henderson J.R.Colbert O.L.Whalin R.R.Hudelson W. S. Adams Warren S. Harris Elmer C.Eash E. E.IIiggins E.H.Baker Floyd Locke Roy Shirley Stanley Smith CHAIRMEN OF CHURCH BOARD E J.Stanley - 1903 Mr, Stanley was chairman of the Church Board when the first church was built on Wright Street, Dr.W,M.Honn A church bulletin of 1909 indicated that he was chairman at that time, He served through 1913 and probably longer. N.B.Garver It is not known when Professor Garver took oHice, He left the commun- ity about 1917, A.W.Nolan No dates available, but he served about 10 years. L.W.Williams Professor Williams served 1929, 19 30 , 19 31, 1932, 1933, 1934, 1935, 1936 and 1937. George H.Dungan 1938, 1939, 1940, 1941, 1957. 128 CHAIRMEN OF CHURCH BOARD (Con't) Robert R. Hudelson 1942, 1943, 1944. 1945. Paul Johnston 1946, 1947, 1948 Paul Peach 1949, 1950 Warren Harris 1951, 1952, to July 1, 1953 The following were elected in May to begin terms July 1: Glen Chapman - 19 53, 19 51 Glen Stout - 1955 Glen Chapman - 19 56 George H.Dungan - 1957 Gordon Cheeseman - 19 58 CHRISTIAN WOMEN?" S FELLOWSHIP 19 57-19 58 OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN President - Mrs. II.B. Wil lman 1st Vice - Mrs.Ilalbert E.Gulley 2nd Vice - Mrs. Benjamin L. Rand Secretary - Mrs. Ralph Scott Treasurer -Mrs. Russell Duncan CHAIRMEN Program - Mrs. Maurice Skelton Worship - Mr s.Louise Reuss Music - Mrs.C.C.Loew Study - Mrs.Quentin Schwab Inter-Church - Miss Flossie Wiley Library - Mrs. A. V. Isaacson Calendar and Bazaar Treasurer - Mrs. Paul F.ltterback Bazaar -Mrs. Walter Ziebach Dinner -Mrs. Stanley C. Smith Table Decoration - Mrs. Lloyd Williamson 129 CHAIRMEN (Con't) Hostesses - Mrs.H.H. Griesheimer Publicity - Mrs.O.L.Whalin Fellowship - Mrs. Floyd Locke Membership - Mrs.Estella Busey International Student Hospitality - Mrs. Halbert E.Gulley GROUP LEADERS Dorcas Group - Mrs.N. F. Garvey Esther Group - Mrs . E. '/.. Hegnier Rachel Group - Mrs. Richard E.Hill Rebekah Group - Mrs. Gordon Clieeseman Ruth Group - Mrs. Donald Merritt Sarah Group - Mrs .1'. J . Leichner Business and Professional Women - Mrs. Roy Long Missionary Guild - Miss Flossie Wiley 130 (1 • %*. k 4m * f Ji ; 1 if ►1 W^^ w^ MJ *;,.... f • I 1 Bab "^ BS- %"' ^■ : ,tf*£J /Ifeove 77ie choir recessional doing the Parting Hymn Below: The deacons and elders at the Table " -1 » C 6 - *%,< a! Ski ^.^-a^?^J»bh P^ttw^Vjg - ! : '1 ,|&i try -? pup I «■► IN MSt-DRY Members of University Place Christian Church who gave their lives dur- ing World War II, 1941 ~ 1945. Herbert Rhea Bedford Kenneth Dean Evans Dean R.Keating Maurice V. Laning Robert H.Mitchell Ivan Morfey. Jr. Richard Ownes James G.Pearson James R.Roberts, Sr. John Edwin Shaker Ivan James Williamson Forrest D.Wright 131 Faithful helpers in the kitchen, )il / u& # mV\A, 40 . 40a Foote Bruce, 95. 102 114 "Forgotten Man" play, 94 Foundation, Disciples of Christ, 48-54 Foundation, board members of in 1953, 118c, 119 building erected by, 115-119 construction pictures of, 118c. 118f cornerstone laying of. 118a credit courses in, 51 ground breaking for, 118a Franklin, John, 110 Frazier, E. L. . 3, 5 Friendship Mission, 40b Full-time Christian service students, list of- 52. 53 Funds for unemployment relief. 75.76 Funkhouser, Isaac, 7 Funkhouser, James, 4. 7 Funkhouser, Mrs. James. 4, 38a Fuqua, Clarence N. , 97, 104 Garland, Walter. 71 Garver, N.B, , 43, 68, 69 Garvey, Neil, 97 Garvin, Mary, 44c, 58 Garvin, Mrs,, 44c G*rvin, Tom, 44c Garwood Home, visitation of. 41 Gher Class, organization of, 90 Gher, Ralph, 75, 110 Gher, Mrs. Ralph, memorial by, 96 Gill, John, 56c Golden Circle Class in 1949, 44d Goodell, W.A., 51, 60 Gorden, Kenneth, 52 INDEX Hill, Mr, and Mrs, Donald, 90 Hill. Mrs, Lew, 39 Hill, Lucy. 99 Hill, Mary Lee, 52, 56b Hippensteele. Hilda Ruth, 51 Hippensteele, Lloyd, 59 Hiserodt, Mary, 4, 7 Hofer, Mabel, 95 Hollandsworth (Wilson), Lelia, 51, 52 Holt, Mr, and Mrs.Mervin, 90 Holzclaw, Henry, 52 Honn, DrJV.M. , 30 Honn, Mrs.W.Sl, 55, 68 Honor roll, church members on, 131 Honor roll, paying members on, 86 — 89 Hooey, Mrs.L.E. A, , 36a Hook, Edward, 122a Hoover, Mr 9 and Mrs. Scott r 70 Hopkins, Cyril G, , 99 Horner, Mrs. Pauline, 39 Horning, E.E., 68 Hoskins, Louise, 95 Howe, Rev.D.J., 102 Hudelson, Pobert R. , 105 Hudson, Lotren, 105 Huff, Mrs. Floyd, 36a Huff, Rev.L.G., 105 Huff, Mrs.L.G., 39 Hunter, Barton, 56b Hupp, Letha. 39 Huston, Edward, 69 Huston, Mrs. Edward (Faye), 39 Illinois Christian Advance, 118 Illinois Christian Missionary Society Board, 118c Illinois Disciples' Foundation, 48-54 Administration of, 118-119 Cornerstone laying of, 118a Financial drives fee:, 115 - 119 Fire losses of, 71 First board of trustees of, 49 Ground breaking for, 118, 118a Objectives of, 49 Organization of, 48 Promotional secretaries of, 49 Illinois Industrial University, 1, 6 Illus, 56 India Day, 118b Inghram, Sarah (McBee), 55 Irvin, Ida Mae, 45 INDEX Jarman. Rev.VU., 51, 99, 102a, 106, 106a 109. 114. 117. 118a, 118b, 120b, 122a Accredited visitor, World Gouncil of Churches Assembly, 123 Brotherhood services rendered by, 123 Influence of on attendance, 120, 121 Ministry of, 122, 123 Selection of, 112, 113 Training of, 113 Mrs.W.J., 113 Jarrard. Ri chard , 120d Jenner, Rev.H.H. . 102 Jennings, Walter. 44b Jessee, Faye, 72, 106b Johnson, Frank Tatham, 99 Johnson, Kenneth, 118a Johnson, Richard. 74 Johnston. Paul E. , 69, 85, 105, 108, 112 Johnston, Mrs. Paul E. . 85 Johnston, Mrs. Virgil W., 21, 30 Memorial by, 95 Music leadership of, 99 Wilma Louise, So Jones, Floyd, 103 Jones, J.Fred 4, 48 Jones, Mrs. Ruth Smith, 39 Jones, Rev. Samual Sylvester, 10, 38b Biography of, 13, 14 99 Junior Church, 43, 44 Junior Class, 102a Kaiser Helen, 39 Kaufman, Mrs. George S, . 33, 39, 44c Keating, Dean R., 131 Kelley/JJI., 30', 99 Kelley. Ralph L, 118a Kelly, Mrs. J. Robert, 122a Kimball, Mary E. , 4 Kinley, President David. 80, 102 Kirk, B.L., 69 Kirk. Mrs.B.L, 42 Class in 1956, 102a Knight. Rev.Jay W. , 17, 38b Knight, Mrs. Jay W. , 39 Koufadakis, Panayotu, 122b Kurkendall, Frances 8. , 90 Ladies Aid Society, 36 Lailerty, Harriet- 52 Langford, Ernest, 50, 69 Langston, Ira, 105 Lanier, Donald, 52, 54c Laning, Maurice V., 131 Lauchner, A.H. , 32, 45, 68 INDEX Laymen s League 104. 105 Layman s Sunday 105 Leach r PauL 48 Leak, Margaret 95 Leasure, Mrs, Arthur 10 37, 68 Lehman, L„0. , 49 Leichner, Mrs.H,J - 36a 56f, 106b Lewis, L, J,, 49 Lewis. Grace, 95 Library, establishment of ? 97 Library, greater use of, 122 "Life-line" churches, 117 "Life-line holders, 85 Linville, Rev.B.H., 33 Living link program, missionaries supported by, 39 Locke, Mr, and Mrs. Floyd, 70 Lockhart, Rev. Willi am, meeting of, 22 Long, Rev. Arthur, meeting of, 22 Long, Princess, singing evangelist, 22 Long, Roy, 69 Lumsden, Mr. and Mrs. Robert, 70 Lutz, Burdette, 52 Lutz, Earl, 58a Mabie, Byron, 50 Magsaysay, President, '40a Maline, Mrs. James, 36a Malone, Rev. J. Walter, Jr., 76, 94, 95 Maris, Mr. and Mrs. James, 59 Marshall, Rev. John, meeting of, 22 Maury, 90 S.A., 33 Marstella, Mrs.W.IL , 4 Mavity, William, 52, 56a Maxson, Robert L. , 7, 18, 44, 44c, 68 Mrs. Bertha, 37, 44, 44c McBride, Charles, 118 McCarthy, Adelaide, 44c McDonald, Charles, 52, 94, 95 McKinney, Professor, 44c Rev. Willi am K. , 103, 105 McLaughlin, Will, 9 McMains, Ben, 69 McMillen, James. 4 9 Josephine, 4 Kittie Belle, 4 Membership development. 122 Memorial gifts, list of, 95 ? 96 Memory list, 131 Men' s Club f first meeting of. 106a INDEX Men s organizations Ilius 56 Pi Pi Rio 56 Men s Work, 104 - 106 Merritt ; Mrs Donald 106b Messenger, character of 122 Starting date of 34 Meyers. Lulu B. 44 100 101 Miebach, Mrs Walter, 106b Millard singing evangelist 22 Miller. Rev-Herbert 72 76 94 Mrs. John. 35 RevOrvilleC 34a 118. 118a Roy. 52. 53. 54d Mrs Roy. 53 54d, 118b Mills. Betty 40b Raymond- 40b. 118 b Miner Luceba (Dennis) 49, 115 Mi s s ion Fri en ds hi p 40 b Missionary Guild- leaders of : 39 work of. 40 Missionary Society, memorial by 96 Missionary Union in Champaign County 39 Mitchell Claude. 106 Mrs.HH 42 Robert H 131 Mittan Mrs C 44c Moore Rev Aubrey 103 Morey, Lloyd 99 Morfey. Ivan Jr 13 1 Morrow Howard 106a Mortgage burning of 66 109 118b Mosher Arthur • T 52 53 1 Bruce 52 53 Clyde 53 (YLL. 102 105 106a Mrs,M, LI 32. 39. 45 Mo she r. Robert L, 51 Rollir i 52 53 Ruth 85 Muflley EJ 50 Muns AC 9 Murdock EL . 30 3.3. 43 61 Music leaders of 99; 100 soloists 100 INDEX Nesbit, Mrs. Daisy Dean, 67 New members being received, 120a Newlin, Jack, 43 Newman, Lyle, 10 5 Nichols, Mrs.A.N., 68 George, 52 Niebuhr, Rev.Reinhold, 122 Nolan, Aretas W. , 44, 45, 50, 55, 61, 67 Northcott, Re v.M. Clifford. 110 Nursery Department, picture of, 118d Oflenbacker, Mrs, Catherine, 39 Offering being presented, 120a Offerman, Donald, 52 Organ, dedication of, 95 Osgood, Russell, 51 "Our Plea", 2 Owens, Richard, 131 Padfield, Frank, 68, 106 Page, Rev. Andrew Nathan eil , 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9 Biography of, 6 Mrs.A.N. , 4 Andrew Orville, 4 Sister Belle. 4 Painters at work, 106a Palmer, C.E. , 86 Parents, dedication of. 122 Parish, Howard, 52 Patterson, A. G. . 69 Mrs.A.G.. 39 George, 120d LeVon ! ... , 32. 50, 58a Mrs.Tevon L, ? 32, 39 Paying members, honor roll of, 86—89 Peach, Paul, 36b, 66, 69 , 118a Mrs. Paul, 66 Pearson, James G., 131 Pedro. Mrs-Fva, 44c f 67 Pendleton, J.W., 104. 106 Percival, Mrs. Bertha. 33 Peters. Harry II., 48, 49 Maude, 39 Pettinga, p au l, 99. 100 ; 100a, 114 Pet tit, R.L., 69 Pi Pi Rho, 56 Piekett, Lindley, 51 Pillars, J.A., 4 Pollock, Mr, and Mrs., music evangelists, 22 Mr. and Mrs Ralph.. 10 3 Porter, Mrs.Bnma, 44c, 67 Laurel 1 en, 56 b Myrtle, rrc INDEX Pound, Joe, 56a Powell, Mrs, ? singing evangelist- 22 Powers, Russell, 106, 106a Prayer vigil, observance of, 123 Presenting the offering, 123a Primary Department, picture of in 20 s. 34b Promotion Day, 100b Provine L.H. 75 Pruitt, Elias, 30 Pulpit, committee of, 112 Picture of, 118c Rantoul Christian Church, organization of, 12 Rauf, Larry, 59 Rebuilding program, pledging for, 80 ? 81 Preparations for 74 - 76 Receiving new members. 120a Recessional, 132 "Redeemer" by Martin Shaw, 100 Soloists for, 100 Reese, Kay, 56b Regnier, E.H. "Duke", 124a Mrs.E.H., 122a Reichard, Cecil, 106a Jerry, 95 Religious card, 5 Religious education, activities of, 43 - 47 Committees of, 45, 59, 97 Paid director of, 45, 98 Reller, Em a, 55 Revel 1, Grace, 44c Merl e 44c Rhodes, Mrs.EJvh, 39, 55, 63 Rice, Inez, 118 Richard, Harry, 69 Richards, H.C. , 22 Mrs.H.C. , 107 Rev. Robert E. , 105 Ruth (Taylor) 43, 44 Vira (see Fisher, Mrs.S. E. ) Kegel, Michael, 123 Roberts, James R. , Sr„ , 131 John, 95 W.J., 106a Robeson, F* K e , 17 Mrs,F.K., memorial by, 95 INDEX Roland, Dallas, 53 Boos a, William V., 51 Roppel , Melvena Bray. 59 Rose, Rabon, 34b. 51. 54b, 118a Ruehe. Mable, 99 Rumble, Heber, 69 Rutherford, Mark, 105 Saint John, Charles, 68 Salman, Rev, Donald, 102 Scarbeary, Earl W, , 54c Schwab Quentin, 106 a Scott, Mrs, Harry. 39 Scoville, Charles Reigh, 28 Segur ? Dorothy, 50, 95 Sellards, Lyle D a , 34a, 51. 56a Sense, Mattie, 48 Seyster, MildF ed . (' Sorensen ^ 48 ? 55 ShafTer, John Edwin, 131 Shamhart, Rev.W.p, . 16, 17 Shanks. David, 52. 56b. 56c 118a Shaul David, 120d Shaul Verrollton C 99 Shawhan Class 67 Shawhan. George R 3 4 7 9 . 33 43 Mrs. George R , 4 36 37 J ames , 9 Shepherd Homer legal adviser 80 Tom 52 53 Shirley Roy 52. 56e Sias. Re/ G Gerald 54a 118 Sinnott Walter 106 a Seel ton Arthur 36 a Mrs Arthur 36a Kathy 36a MrsFL 108 George 68 Skinner Theodore 9 Mrs Theodore, 8 36 Slough Roy 68 90 Ruby 34 43 Smith Floyd 50 George T . 3 3 Harlie, 54a Herbert 39 Mrs Herbert memorial by 96 Joseph. 95 June 59 Stanley C 69 Mrs. Stanley C 36a. 90 ■ -EX Smith Mrs Tom 36 Smith Wilhelma (Jaggard) 52 Snider Max D 50 Miio 50 Somers Class memorial by. 95 Somers Lee A 59 70 Mrs. Lee A 32 39 Somers Mosher Class, 97 Sommers A T 69 Southgate, Lilith, 59 Spaulding Helen 51 53. 60 94 Spencer Kenneth, 59 90 Mrs.Kenneth, 59 90 122a Sperry, Rev. W, D 94 Stanley, Mrs, E J, , 39 Dr.&CX, 19 Mrs, 0,0, 55 Stark. E, G , 15 Daughter of. 38a Stevenson, Alice, 56a George Jr . 90 Mrs, George Jr., 90 122a Mrs, Herbert, 56b Stewardship 120a Stine. Mrs W.R 68 Stipp. Frank.. 48 52 Rev T L 68 Stoltzfus Donald H 58a, 104 Stoolman AW- 80 Straw Robert 52 Stuart Nelle 94 95 Student Center Building, 115 Student retreat . 122a ' Student Sing", 56c Student Sunday School Classes Student' s Home, 1, 2, 3, 5 59 70 119 50 Student' s Home, Sunday School, burned, 8 adjustment of, 97 faithful workers in history of, 43 - 47 outreach of. 97 promotion day of, 100b some records of, 44 superintendents of, workers in, 44c Sunday School Classes, Alpha Omeg Delta/ 70 Gleaners, 68 Golden Circle, 44c, 44d, 68, 69 Loyal Women, 67, 68 Men' s. 68 44c, 46 126 69 INDEX Sunday School Classes Shawhan 67 Soraers. 70 Somers-Mosher 97 X L. 69 Young peoples 44b Younger Adult 69 Sunflower dub 10 Members of 11 Swart z Laura 9 Mac 9 Switzer. Mrs Lucille 39 90 T alley Rev evangelistic singer 22 Taylor Lois 95 100 Re/ . meeting of 22 Fkith Richards 43 44c Temperance Hall, 3 Tent meeting on N.Hickory Street, 22 Thomas. Sophie 4 36 Thompson, Dean C VL 33 43 94 104 110 116 Robert 0, , 59 Thursday Friendly, 50 Tobias Robert 54b "The Twelve", members of. 57 Presidents of; 57 Purpose of 56 Trimble, Joe. memorial by- 96 M T., memorial by, 96 Mrs.M. T, - picture of. 44c R-M. . memorial by. 96 Trustees, list of, 124. 125 Tuckerman and wife, singers. 22 Tupper Rev, Charles- 102 United Christian Missionary Society, contributions to, 39 University of Illinois, helpfulness of after church fire. 72 University Place Christian Church, building committee of. 74-75 Building in 1903 charter members of. 1 cooperative spirit of, 32 dedication of (1903), 20 (1911); 27-30 (1936), 91-93 enlarged building of, 27 fire of in 1914, 30, 31 fire of in 1932, 66 location of 1 membership of, 1, 4. 121 office of- 34 organization of, 3 ready for dedication, 85 rebuilding of. 80, 81 ralued at, 85 INDEX Utterback, Paul, 69 Vance, Donald E.. 66. 70, 105 Mrs, Donald E., 66, 70 Varner, Pauline, 54d, 118b Vautrin, Minnie, 52, 55 Vennum, Ernest M, , memorial by, 95 picture of 118d Frank B. , 16, 17, 18, 30 ? 43, 124a Mrs. Frank B. , 36 "Victory Day", 74 Visitation evangelism, 104 "'orkshop of, 105 Voile, Moise Julian, 122b Vorhies, A.L. , 30, 33 Vose, Esther, 72 Wagner, Earl, 105 Walker, Mr. and Mrs,, evangelistic singers, 22 Mr, and MrsJIarold A. . memorial by, 96 Rev.W.H., 94, 102 Wallace, Julian, 106a Wallin, Dr. Marie. 56a Waterman, Charles Emil, 52 Weatherford, Mrs, Harry 68 Weaver, Arthus F. , 52 Kenneth, 70, 106a Mrs, Kenneth, 70 Webber Street Church of Christ, establishment of, 33 Joint meetings with 90 Weber Evelyn, 72 Wedding first in the new church 8 5 Weibel ,'RO. , 58a, 104 Wesley Foundation, organization of 48 Whalin (XL,, 32, 34a, 69, 109 White, Dean 95 J*F. S 17 White Hall, 1 White Street Christian Church 7 debt on cleared 17 growth of 10 members of, 11, 12, 102 name changed to Christian Church University Place, 17 teachers in 10 Whitney, Mrs e Gardner, 118a Wickes, A.F., 74, 75, 94, 116 Wilcox, J T , 66, 69, 81 Wiley Flossie 39 Hi by, 39 , 47 Williams, Charles F. , 33 INDEX Williams, L W. 32 44 44c 45 6i 61 72 94 Mrs.L.W. 67 97 Williamson Ivan James 131 Kenneth 122a Mr. and Mrs Lee 90 Lloyd 106a Willis Mrs Jess 35 Villman Mrs H. B 34 56f. 106b Wilson s Clarence V 70 i05 Mrs Clarence 70 Henry 94 Mrs.TD. 44c 55 w isegarver Lounge 56 f -'isegarver Pauline 44c 50 53 Smith 50. 68 75 118 Mrs .Smith, 39 44c 50 118 "omen s Council 36 Fire losses of 71 Fisher portrait sponsored by 111 Library of 37 Memorial by 96 Services of 37 i09 •"omen' s Missionary activities 39 40 Wood Sam S l06 Mrs Sam S. 101 Woodrow Mrs H W 60 99 Work Mrs Clyde 100 Workers Conference 44c World Call Magazine, study of 39 45 World War II honor list of 131 Wright Amos 33 Forrest D 131 Youmans Russell 56a Young Mrs C.C 39 Zerby Guy Lewis 33 Ziegler Vashti V Temple ) 60