Our Church

Foreword

The records of Settle Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church, South may have been kept from the beginning in 1836, but many of them were lost because they had not been carefully filed, and I found that no attempt had ever been made to write a brief, readable history of this historic church.

In the early winter of 1934 I asked Miss Cora Lee Webb, qualified in memory and knowledge, to gather from the available records the essential facts for a brief history. Reluctantly she agreed to do her best, and her best will stand as a monument to her tireless and thoughtful efforts. The record reveals that God's hand has ever led this loyal band of Methodists in their efforts to build a stronger world.

A rich heritage is ours and we stand in a place made sacred by a hundred years of faithful service. Those that have gone before have placed in our hands a burning torch of righteousness, and may we be faithful to pass it on with increasing splendor.

I was assigned to Settle Memorial by Bishop U. V. Darlington at the Louisville annual conference held in Lebanon, Kentucky, September 26 to October 1, 1934.

— Bedford Turner

The First Church3Its Initial Beginning

If one could go back to 1830 in the history of Daviess county, they would find that Owensboro, then known as Yellow Banks, was a little, straggling settlement of log houses perched upon the high bank of the Ohio river, in the small plat extending from the river to Third street and from Lewis to Walnut. Many of these settlers may have been affiliated with some church in their old home, but prior to 1834 there were no churches in Yellow Banks; itinerant preachers came occasionally to minister to the needs of the settlers, who at that time numbered 229.

In 1836 what was known as the “Methodist Society” was organized in the home of Mr. J. J. Bowlds. Soon after, the Methodist and Baptist had a union revival. At its close about half the converts joined the Baptist and half the Methodist. For some years they held their services in the court house, which was built of logs, having a sawdust floor and plank seats. Later the Methodist realized the necessity of having a house of worship of their own; but the fulfillment of this desire was delayed quite a while, as the board could not agree on a location. Some of them favored building on the site of the present city hall, at the corner of Fourth and St. Ann streets; others opposed this, giving as their excuse that it was too far out of town. However, they finally agreed on a location, and a lot on the north side of Main between Lewis and Daviess was purchased. On this site, in 1851, this little group numbering 35 or 40, ten of whom were men, built a small gray brick church, 75 feet by 48 feet, with a square bell tower on top. Later on a vestibule, extending across the entire front, was added; over this vestibule was a room built especially for the colored members; and here, on Sunday afternoons, Mr. Charlie Mitchell taught them the Sunday School lesson. Mr. Mitchell was one of the finest Christian characters the church has ever had. From the beginning until his death in 1918 he was faithful to its cause, serving in every way possible — as member of the board, teacher in the Sunday School, officer — always responding to every call. His quiet, unassuming manner, his faithfulness, his reliability placed him in a class to himself. He simply radiated integrity, and his death was a great loss to the church.

4Across the rear of the church was another room used to store supplies and necessary equipment. Mr. J. J. Bowlds built this church almost entirely at his own expense.

Here the Methodist worshipped for about thirty years. These years brought them many and varied experiences — some happy and joyous, and sorrows not a few.

When some of the more progressive members suggested the advisability of purchasing an organ as an added attraction for the music program, some of the staid brothers and sisters violently opposed this movement. They were conscientious in their convictions that a musical instrument in the House of God was an opening wedge for the devil.

But the majority ruled, and soon the organ was bought and placed near the front. One of the dear good sisters, Aunt Polly Copeland, who was on the side of the opposition, promptly put her Methodism into practice and fell from grace, refusing to come to church. But “Aunt Polly” was too good a woman to remain away from her church very long, and soon she was back, but sat on the very last pew, as far away from that instrument of torture as possible. However, her religious zeal must have overcome her convictions, or else the dulcet tones of that little reed organ worked its charm, for not many Sundays later she marched calmly down the aisle to her old pew in the amen corner.

Miss Anna Mitchusson, the daughter of the Sunday School superintendent, was the first organist. Her untimely death cast a gloom over the entire church, for she was young, a beautiful character, and loved by all.

The Sunday School was a source of delight to the children; so much did they enjoy it that they went both morning and afternoon, as one church held it in the morning and the other in the afternoon. The old records have names of some of the most prominent families of this date, regardless of their affiliation with other churches at their old homes. So we find the names of Baptist, Presbyterian, Episcopalian, Cumberland, as well as Methodist.

Mrs. Mildred Ellis was one of the first teachers, having charge of the infant class. In the secretary's book of 1868 we find the names of 59 children on this roll. Among them: Henry Boyd, Fanny Ellis (Mrs. C. A. Payne, Sr.), Alice Webb (Mrs. Groff) and Miss Jennie Cosby (these parties still living). The officers this year were Mr. W. L. Mitchusson, superintendent; Mr. O. D. Read, assistant superintendent; Mr. John Carter, treasurer; Mr. T. H. Guthrie, secretary; and Mr. W. B. Cosby, librarian.

5The Sunday School picnic was the day that was looked forward to from year to year. At the appointed time almost all the members, with well-filled baskets packed with the most delicious eatables, wended their way to the picnic grounds. This was usually Murray's Woods, which extended from Fifth street on. Dinner was spread upon the grounds, and everyone ate their fill regardless of gnats, flies, ants and a few stray bugs. The children romped and played, or gathered the wild flowers which grew there in great profusion — such as jack-in-the-pulpit, wild hyacinths, Sweet William, May apple blossoms, dutchman's breeches, lady slipper, ferns, violets, bluebells and many others too numerous to mention. They spent the entire day until the sun, sinking in the West, reminded them that this day, like all good things, must end. So, gathering up their empty baskets, they started homeward, tired but happy, regretting that such days came only once a year. On one occasion when the picnic was held at Weir's Park (which extended from Tenth street between Frederica and Walnut), the school met and marched in a body, headed by the superintendent, Mr. Mitchusson, whom the children adored. They had a banner with the name of the school in large letters.

This was carried by a big boy. The banner had long cords ending in tassels fastened at the corners. These cords were carried by two little girls, Maggie Ellis (Mrs. R. W. Littell) and Fannie Stirman (Mrs. Joe Lee). The children were given bright little picture cards for prompt attendance and good lessons. In the vestibule was a library, and they were permitted to take a book and keep it until the next Sunday. This was considered quite an innovation, as books and pictures were not at all plentiful in those days. The teachers offered a prize to the pupils memorizing the greatest number of Bible verses, and the record shows that one class memorized 959 in one month. No class fell below 65.

There were plenty of revivals in those days, when every pew was a mourner's bench, and sinners wept and wailed over their sins, while the dear good brothers and sisters prayed with them and tried to show them the way of salvation. Many a poor lost sinner found at the foot of this altar that only Christ is true.

The communion services were always followed in the afternoon by a love feast, when bread and water were served instead of unleavened bread and wine. Mrs. Mary Ellen Hart made the communion bread and continued in this service until just before her death. Every Sunday afternoon there was class meeting of the faithful few, who told of their experiences, trials and temptations, as well as their many blessings. They would often become quite happy, and it was nothing unusual for them to shout, laugh and sing the praises of God.

6The government of the church was quite different in those days from that of the present time. Then it was necessary to be fully converted and passed upon before one could become a member. Then one must lead an exemplary life in order to remain in the church, for woe betide any member who strayed from his or her religious duty into sinful, worldly pleasures, such as dancing, card playing, drinking, horse racing and the like. Such members were promptly waited upon by a committee from the board, and if they refused to mend their ways, were dismissed from the church. In the records of 1861 we find that a question asked at every meeting of the official board was, “Is there anyone who walks disorderly and will not be reproved?” Sometimes the answer was “No.” Then again there would be a name reported, and a committee would be appointed to interview the sinner. Some of the more obstreperous ones would refuse to repent, and their names would, with censure, be dropped from the roll. Some were more amenable and would ask the board to bear with them a little longer; their request was usually granted. In selecting the board, care was taken that every man chosen should, first of all, possess the necessary spiritual qualifications, and be like “Caesar's wife, above reproach.”

The Ladies Aid was organized soon after the church was built, and Mrs. Mildred Ellis was its first president. This was the finest woman's organization the church has ever had. The ladies met every Monday afternoon and worked. They always had some money in the treasury to help out in any emergency. They headed every good cause that came up in the church and worked at it faithfully.

There were some lovely weddings in the “Little Gray Church.” One of the most beautiful was the double wedding of Miss Lelia Shrader to Mr. Roy Hathaway and Miss Maggie Shrader to Lieutenant Charles Tyler. The first time the bell was tolled for a funeral was for Mrs. Sallie Anne Mitchell, the mother of Mr. Charles Mitchell.

Among the families who were prompt and faithful to this church, who were always ready to serve in any capacity wherever needed when called upon, we find the names of Bowlds, Cosby, Daviess, Ellis, Baker, Frasier, Wilhite, Hart, Guthrie, Hill, Hughes, Mitchusson, Mitchell, Stirman, Parrish, Trible, Carter, Roberts and Stuart. Some of the members still living and who have remained faithful are Mrs. Ione Baker, Mrs. R. W. Littell, Mrs. George Haynes, Mrs. C. A. Payne, Miss Jennie McClarty, Miss Jennie Cosby and Mrs. W. N. Gore. This church entertained the conference in 1853, 1862 and 1869.

7Among the early preachers who came to minister to the Methodist society about 1820 were Mr. Downs, John and Dan Pinkston, Phillip Gunn, and Richard Neal. The story is told that Mr. Gunn was once struck by lightning, which melted all the metallic articles of one side of him and tore his clothes without injuring him in the least. This church has been blest in having many godly men as its pastors. They were men of the highest integrity and spirituality, faithful to their duty and loyal to the cause. These ministers were A. A. Morrison (served one-half year), H. C. McQuown, R. Holding, S. S. Deering, T. J. Moore, A. H. Redfield, J. Lee, N. Lee, F. N. English, J. I. Ferree, Mr. Kyle, W. R. Babcock, J. W. Kasey, R. Y. Thomas, R. R. Alexander, J. Randolph, A. Brown, D. Morton, H. M. Ford, E. G. Nicholson, J. W. Cunningham, J. S. Malone, H. G. Settle, J. Ditzler, G. W. Brush, T. C. Berry, J. B. Cottrell, and H. C. Settle. One of these, Rev. T. C. Berry, died during his pastorate of typhoid fever, which was quite prevalent in those days and, more often than not, fatal.

About the year 1878, the members — now numbering over 300 — began to feel the need of a more commodious house of worship, so after many prayers and much discussion it was decided to buy a larger lot and build a new church. A lot at the corner of Fourth and Daviess was purchased for $2,550, and a new building erected. The old church building and lot were sold for $3,000 to Mr. B. L. Duncan, who built a dry-goods store on the site. Thus passed the first church and its loyal members. They have become memories, but their influence lives on.

Beautiful indeed is this stately church in which we worship today, and if placed by its side the little gray brick church would look very small and insignificant; but this small church was as dear to its members as Settle Memorial is to us. We should ever keep in mind that what we are, and have today, has been made possible only by the loyalty, spirituality, devotion and integrity of these early Methodists. Their bodies have returned to the dust, but they are immortal. They lighted the torch, and as sentinels for the Master held it high. It is up to us to keep it burning.

Settle Chapel8Its Gradual Development

Settle Chapel was built on this lot in 1880, during the second pastorate of H. C. Settle, for whom it was named. It was of Gothic structure, 90 feet by 54 feet and 50 feet high. Boyd and Brickly of Evansville were the architects, and J. J. Williams superintended its erection. The total cost was $13,900. The building committee was Dr. W. D. Stirman, T. H. Frayser and Robert McJohnston. One can imagine the prayers, sacrifices, thought and labor put into it. When finished in 1881, how proud and thankful the members were to have a church so much larger and finer than the little gray church — besides being the most beautiful church in the city. It was dedicated by Bishop Fitzgerald of Nashville. This band went to work to pay for it. They now numbered a little over 300, and by prayer, sacrifices and work, all indebtedness was paid in full in 1887. And these faithful workers could truly sing “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.”

The Ladies Aid, always helpful and willing, came nobly to the front, working incessantly at any and every thing the hand found to do. They even made the carpet, sewing by hand those long, heavy, clumsy seams of Brussels with undaunted courage. Mrs. Minerva Hill (mother of the late Alexander Hill) was the president at this time. She was a great organizer and leader, very generous with her church, giving the silver communion service, which consisted of four pieces — waiter, pitcher and two goblets.

Mrs. Comstock, another staunch member, who made her living by dressmaking, invested all the savings made by her needle-pricked fingers in the pulpit furniture. There were five pieces: the pulpit, two large chairs and two smaller chairs. This furniture was solid walnut and very beautiful. They are excellent examples of Gothic style and are far more valuable today than at that time. When Settle Memorial was built, its finishing and furnishings were of oak, so these walnut pieces could not be used in the new church, although they are far more attractive than the new ones. Two of the walnut chairs and the pulpit were given to Woodlawn Methodist church. The other three are still in use in the Sunday School rooms. The smaller chairs, needing upholstering, the ignorant workman decided the backs were too high and proceeded to cut off a foot or more of the top, but they are still beautiful in spite of this vandalism. Mr. B. R. Smith, at his own expense, had the large chair upholstered. It was used in Mr. Hill's class room until after his death; then it was brought back into the lecture room, and it is the most attractive and valuable piece of furniture in the church.

9The Ladies Aid was always ready to serve or aid in any undertaking. At one time it was necessary to have a new pavement in front of the church. The board appointed a committee to attend to this, but they were so dilatory the ladies got busy and soon it was down and paid for. Another time some repairs were needed on the parsonage. The funds were at a low ebb just then, and the board had to borrow money from the ladies, paying them interest.

In 1889, when it was necessary to have some plastering done, Mr. Cosby was commissioned to attend to it and call on the Lord for payment. It was not reported whether the Lord saw fit to pay it, or felt it was something the church could do themselves.

Mr. Henry Settle was pastor from 1877 to 1881. During his pastorate Settle Chapel was built and the first missionary society organized. The Foreign and Home Missionary Societies were organized at the same time, in 1881. Mrs. W. D. Stirman was president of the foreign and Mrs. Robert McJohnston of the home. The charter members were: Mesdames W. D. Stirman, T. H. Frayser, Robert McJohnston, Mary Ellen Hart, O. D. Read, Minerva Hill, Emily Hale, W. E. Parrish, Ellen Riley Comstock, B. L. Duncan, Mildred Ellis Pedley, Mullen, Mathis, Nall, Scobee, Mary Smith, and Miss Letitia McClarty. In the fall of 1881, Settle Chapel entertained the Louisville conference in their new home. George H. Hayes served as pastor, 1881–1882; S. R. Brewer, 1882–1886; D. L. Collie, 1886–1887. During Mr. Collie's pastorate the debt on the church was paid in full, and the idea of a lecture room with Sunday School class rooms was brought up and discussed.

Dennis Spurrier served 1887–1888, a gentlemanly scholar who endeared himself to many during his short stay. His marriage one day was followed by his death the next. Going to Mammoth Cave on his wedding trip, he dropped dead in the cave, and the Methodists were sheep without a shepherd.

10S. X. Hall served 1888–1889. His stay was only one year, as his wife, not wishing to live in a small town, refused to come here but remained in Louisville.

He was followed by M. H. Wells, a transfer, 1889–1891. Coming from the sunny South, he brought some of its sunshine with him in his interesting family. It was at this time the Jardine organ was installed. The small Estey organ, bought at such a great sacrifice and many bitter discussions, had about served its purpose, and the members became ambitious to have a pipe organ. The little reed instrument, which had given such faithful service — intoning the music of the hymns, pealing forth the joyous wedding march, or the solemn funeral knell — was now to be relegated to the past. The women, as usual, took the lead. The Young Ladies Aid was organized in 1890 and started out with the firm determination to pay for the organ, and they did, giving all kinds of entertainments, dinners, suppers, socials, butterfly parties, where the hundreds of corn and wheat cakes served the public really made the butter fly. At fair time they chartered the train which ran out Lewis street to carry visitors to the great and only Daviess County Fair. Though it was necessary, after leaving the train, to walk across a plowed field where the dust was several inches deep, no one minded in the least, and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. the train would be crowded, and the ladies made a nice sum to apply on the organ.

With Mrs. Fannie Stirman Athy as its president, nothing daunted this band of young ladies; and soon the organ was bought from Jardine and Son of New York for $3,000. Young Mr. Jardine, coming to install it, fell in love with one of the young ladies, Miss Bessie McJohnston, and their wedding soon after was one of the many beautiful ones held in this church; and it was the first time Lohengrin's Wedding March was played on the organ.

There have been many such joyous occasions. One such was the double ceremony of Miss Lydia Guthrie to Mr. C. T. Cain and Miss Mary Wallace Guthrie to Mr. George Haynes. Later on, Miss Judith Frayser to Mr. El Duke and Miss Mary Feland to Mr. John Gilmour.

About this time, owing to the rapid growth of the city, the Methodist began to realize the necessity for taking care of those on the outskirts who did not attend services. These thoughts culminated in establishing a mission in the western part of the city, called the West Main Street Mission, and it was dedicated in 1888. Soon it outgrew its swaddling clothes and became self-supporting. Finding it necessary to have larger quarters, they bought a lot at Frayser avenue and Third street and built a most attractive church and parsonage, changing its name to Frayser Avenue Church. Settle Chapel never did a greater work than organizing this mission. Frayser Avenue has won an enviable reputation for training ministers, having excelled all other churches in the city in this work. She has sent out six young men to preach the gospel, each of whom now has charge of his own church. They are Reverends Pat Kasey, Arthur Kasey, James Fuqua, George Wood, Robert Prentiss, and E. M. Keeler, and they have several new prospects.

11Mr. Wells heartily endorsed building a lecture room, and a committee was appointed to raise the funds, and another committee, composed of W. B. Cosby, W. E. Parrish and M. H. Wells, to see to the building. Mr. Wells' name was replaced the next year with that of the new pastor, Dr. G. C. Kelly, 1891–95.

Dr. Kelly, a transfer from Memphis, was a refined, scholarly gentleman, and a thorough Christian. At the close of his pastorate here he was transferred to Virginia, and the Louisville conference lost one of its finest spiritual characters. During his term the lecture room was added to the rear of the church.

The Sunday School had always met in the church — now there were individual class rooms and an auditorium for general assembly. The windows of this lecture room are worthy of special notice. A beautiful light streams through the stained glass, giving a soft yet glowing effect. The large window is one of the loveliest in the city. It has in it a reproduction of Munkácsy's “Christ Before Pilate.” The dignity, calmness and sweetness of this representation of the Man of Sorrows, together with the exquisite coloring, has a most satisfying, pleasing effect, and rests and calms one as they look. One is not surprised that it creates this feeling when they remember that this vision of the Christ came to the artist by divine inspiration after days of fasting and prayer.

As one good thing always calls for another, this new lecture room needed a new musical instrument. So a grand piano was bought, and the faithful superintendent, Mr. Frank E. Katterjohn, contributed two-thirds of its cost. Mr. Katterjohn served as Sunday School superintendent three times. The church has never had more faithful workers than Mr. and Mrs. Katterjohn, always ready to serve in any capacity — in the choir, Sunday School and church. Their voices, their kindness and generosity will be remembered long after their bodies have returned to dust.

12In the spring of 1893 was the great Sam Jones revival. This was a union meeting, and all the churches, uniting, built a tabernacle seating 10,000 at Tenth and Locust streets. For three weeks crowds from every direction flocked to hear this great man. The morning services were held in Settle Chapel and the afternoon and evening services at the tabernacle. All the church choirs in the city made up the choir. It was a wonderful meeting, the greatest ever held here, and every church reaped the benefits. The most hardened sinners and vilest drunkards were led to see the errors of their ways and reformed. The results of that meeting are felt to this day.

In 1894, Settle Chapel again entertained the Louisville conference.

Dr. Kelly was followed by Dr. George Waverly Briggs from Texas, 1895–1899. Dr. Briggs was the most brilliant minister the Methodists have ever had — a courteous, cultivated, gifted man. No one who heard his first sermon will ever forget it. His text: “May the Grace of Our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.” The members realized at once that Settle Chapel had drawn a prize, “a pearl of great price.” His unfortunate life and death will ever be a source of sorrow to those who knew him and loved him.

Dr. Charles W. Byrd, another transfer from the South, served one year, 1899–1900. It was necessary, owing to the health of a member of his family, to return to the South. That year the pastor at West Main Street Church was a Mr. Crow, and before Dr. Byrd arrived one of the members said they were more fortunate than Settle Chapel, for they knew the kind of bird they had but Settle Chapel didn't. They soon discovered, however, he was the right kind of a bird, and regretted to have him fly away.

Then there came from Georgia Dr. Thomas R. Kendall, 1900–1904, a gentle, lovable, kindly spirit, a thorough Christian character who never saw anything but the good, and of whom Sam Jones said, “He would be in Heaven three weeks before the devil found out he was dead.” He served Settle Chapel faithfully and well, and was loved by all. During his pastorate Woodlawn Mission was established, Mr. Gordon having charge. The committee to buy the lot and build was W. B. Cosby, Ben Driver and W. B. Palmer.

13The Breckenridge Street Mission was organized in 1895, and by 1906 it had become self-supporting and had its first regular pastor, W. P. Gordon. In 1918 they built a more convenient and inviting church on the same site.

Then came our own Dr. Frank M. Thomas, who served from 1904 to 1908. His wonderful work speaks for itself. During his pastorate the church began to feel the need of a more commodious house of worship. After much discussion, praying and planning, Settle Chapel was razed and replaced by the present magnificent structure. The name was changed to Settle Memorial. It should have been Thomas Memorial, for it will be a memorial to him as long as one stone stands on another.

Dr. Thomas was highly educated, a brilliant scholar, a refined Christian character, an excellent pastor, with wonderful executive ability — an ideal man for the task assigned to him. Though not strong physically, he never faltered or permitted his feelings to prevent him from doing his duty. He remained one year after the church was finished. It was not easy for him to give this church into other hands, for it was the result of long days of labor, prayer and study; and it was equally hard for the members who had stood by him faithfully and loyally to have him go. But Methodism is Methodism.

The church was completed and formally opened Sunday, November 17, 1907, with a great jubilee rally. Mr. Joseph W. Powell of Buffalo, N.Y., had charge of the exercises of the day and spoke at all the services. Dr. Thomas put every member of the church on a committee, and all this was in the printed program for the day, which is the following:

Settle MemorialIts Present Responsibility

The building of Settle Memorial was started in 1906. The committee: Frank M. Thomas, John Carter, George W. S. Parrish, J. H. Hickman, Frank Katterjohn, W. E. Parrish, D. C. Stimson, M. L. Ogden, R. S. Hughes, John Wright, J. A. Harris, J. N. Grady. Of these men, one, Mr. Harris, has moved, and only three are now living: Frank Katterjohn, D. C. Stimson and M. L. Ogden.

15Mr. John P. Davis superintended the building. The cost was about $75,000. It is strictly English Gothic in style, inspired by sincere Christian conviction. It is really the embodiment of Christianity. Its characteristics are the high pointed arches, vaulted ceiling, predominating vertical lines, symbolic decorations, stained glass windows, columns with foliage capitals, color and gilding, and wrought iron hinges. Every part of the decorations is charged with meaning: the Cross, symbol of Christ's Cross; the inverted cross, that the supreme sacrifice had been made; the trefoil stands for the Trinity; the quatrefoil, the four gospel writers; the circle, eternity; the square, the new Jerusalem, the city foursquare; the laurel leaf, wisdom; the olive leaf, peace; the dove, the Holy Ghost; the vine, “I am the Vine”; the seven-branched candlestick, the seven churches established by Paul. In the front window the angel with the sword represents the church militant; the angel on the right, the church triumphant. The predominating vertical lines and high pointed arches give one a feeling of awe and lift their thoughts to God, as also the ceiling in soft blue and white fleecy clouds, reminding one of the heavenly skies. The radiant beauty of the stained glass windows, with their gorgeous coloring and hand-painted heads, adds to the effect. These are the only hand-painted windows in the city and the most artistic. They were painted and made by Mr. Louis Millet of Chicago, the president of the Art Institute of Chicago, and nephew of the great French artist Millet, the noted painter of peasants. The window committee was Dr. Frank M. Thomas, Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Hughes, and Miss Cora Lee Webb. The wall decorations are exquisitely beautiful, frescoed in soft tan, blue, red and green, and with gold trimmings on the organ arch. The hand carving is simple but appropriate, carrying out the Gothic ideas. The gold candlesticks were given by Miss Shumaker in memory of Elizabeth and Thomas Thomas, and their names are engraved on them. Dr. Thomas gave the Bible in memory of his son Frank, Jr. Miss Jennie McClarty gave the individual communion service.

The church is built of stone and white brick. The foundation stone — broad, strong, good, like the doctrine of Methodism — is deeply embedded in the earth. In the corner stone was placed some appropriate and interesting articles, among them a paper containing the news of Dr. Spurrier's death. This was brought by Mrs. Rose Parrish.

16Every brick and stone was placed with care and watched by Dr. Thomas, that nothing of inferior quality went into its building. Quite a calamity occurred during the erection of this church. One of our finest young men, Mr. Claude Basham, lost his life while at work on it. Having charge of the stone work, he was most careful that everything should be just right. One day, while working on the eastern tower, he slipped and fell to his death. A gloom was cast over the entire church, for he was a young man of sterling qualities — upright, honest, a God-fearing Christian — and his untimely death was mourned by many friends. A marble memorial slab for him is on the wall of the eastern vestibule.

After the formal opening of the church, all the women's societies were disbanded and every woman in the church was placed in one of the ten bands organized. Each band had a president and other officers, and Mrs. R. W. Littell was president of all the bands. These band presidents were Mrs. Judith Duke, Mrs. M. Eskridge, Mrs. George R. Hayes, Mrs. Frank Katterjohn, Mrs. Steward, Mrs. Robert Todd, Mrs. H. A. Moore, Mrs. N. B. Chambers, Mrs. Will Deane, and Miss May Read.

The church was now $33,000 in debt. These bands went to work to help pay the debt, and in the fall when conference came, two bands had charge of serving the meals for a day. It was most satisfactory, and the ladies enjoyed it very much.

The next pastor, Dr. J. H. Young, 1908–1910, was a transfer from St. Louis. Dr. Young was a handsome, dignified, cultivated man, dearly loved by those who really knew him and his intrinsic worth.

Dr. Young was succeeded by Dr. Lewis Powell, 1910–1914, a transfer from Mississippi. Dr. Powell was a real man, a strong Christian character — practical, genuine, highly educated, a most efficient executive, true as steel, to whom a lie was a lie and a thief a thief. He was no respecter of persons and could not be influenced by social standing or by wealth. One of his neighbors, who was not noted for his religious tendencies, told him that when he died, no matter where Dr. Powell might be at the time, he must come and preach his funeral, for he was the only minister he knew who would tell the truth about him. These sterling qualities, with his educational advantages and his true religious fervor, placed him in a class to himself. He was admired and respected by all. Dr. Powell walked into that debt, and into the members as well, telling them that anyone in debt and making no effort to meet their obligations was both a liar and a thief.

17The members seemed to like being told the plain truth, for that first year $27,000 was paid in, $19,000 being applied to the debt. Settle Memorial owes much to Dr. Powell, who had the stamina to tell them the truth and make them do their duty.

Then came Dr. J. R. Savage, 1914–1916, a transfer from the Kentucky conference, to which he was returned at the end of the second year. His short stay endeared him and his charming wife to many, both in and out of the church.

The next pastor was the saintly Sam Miller, 1916–1918, the finest, most spiritual character of all Settle Memorial ministers. If he possessed a single fault, no one ever discovered it; gentle, sweet, appreciative of every favor, yet strong and efficient in all his undertakings, he was beloved by all.

During the pastorate of Dr. Miller, the debt on Settle Memorial was paid in full, and joy filled every heart. Jubilee week was held April 30–May 6, 1917, to which all the former pastors were invited to come and participate. The program was as follows:

During the flu epidemic in 1918, Dr. Miller contracted the dreadful plague and sank under its treacherous course. His death cast a gloom not only over the church, but the entire community, as well as the conference, whose secretary he was. The church was downcast and discouraged, feeling there was no one who could take his place. But it was only another proof that “God moves in a mysterious way his wonders to perform.”

18For now there came to us the brilliant, talented, companionable, charming Carl C. Gregory and his adorable wife, 1918–1923. He was young, this being his first real charge, having been the assistant of Dr. George Stuart of Birmingham. He was unafraid, but the board was not. They looked at his young, boyish face and their hearts sank. The chairman of the board met him at the train, and on the way to the hotel said, “This is a mighty big church,” and Mr. Gregory replied, “Yes, we have big churches in Birmingham too.” After the first Sunday they felt better, and soon realized they had nothing to fear and much for which to be thankful.

One day Mr. Gregory said to the janitor, “Henry, see that the balcony is in good condition; we are going to fill it.” Henry replied, “Mr. Gregory, that has never been did; it cannot be did.” Mr. Gregory said, “Henry, it is going to be did.” And it was. As the years slipped away, even the members who firmly believed in the Methodist system of four years were only too delighted to keep him over the prescribed time. When the Bishop thought best to transfer him to Texas, where he went to take charge of one of the wealthiest churches in the South, Settle Memorial was heartbroken, but very proud that he had accomplished so much. As they bade adieu to him, his lovely wife and charming children, their prayers and blessings went with them. Their return visits were looked forward to with great anticipation, and the rejoicing at their return was like that over the Prodigal Son. Settle Memorial always felt they belonged to them, and when they came it was simply a homecoming. His unfortunate death from overwork was a shock and a calamity, not only to the church but to all Methodists. It was a time to remember —

“God's in His heaven,
All's right with the world.”

B. G. Hodge, 1923–29, another transfer from the South, and again from Birmingham, and Dr. George Stuart's assistant. Succeeding the popular Carl Gregory, he had a hard task before him; but he was young, ambitious, and was noted for his charming personality, consequently he had no trouble in winning his way into the hearts of his members.

Just now the question was stirred in regard to an educational building. This movement was opposed by some of the more conservative business members. They felt it was not the proper time. Their objections were overruled and the building erected at a cost of $54,000. The building committee: D. C. Stimson, W. R. Jagoe, E. W. Smith, F. E. Katterjohn and O. L. Fowler. The finance committee: T. L. Barr, D. J. Glenn, Earl Felix, and A. C. Rose. The furnishing committee: J. W. Snyder, H. H. Smith, D. W. Kendall, Mrs. Gertrude MaQuigg, and Dr. W. A. Wheeler. It was soon discovered the conservatives were right. Very few funds had been promised — not enough to even pay the interest on the borrowed money. Then the depression came, and for five years no effort was made to pay even a small part of this indebtedness. This was inexcusable for a church of Settle Memorial's standing, which had always met its obligations. Now the debt had grown to $65,000, and the church has awakened to the enormity of her carelessness and indifference.

19In 1928 the Kilgan organ was bought and installed at a cost of $14,000.

In 1925, Settle Memorial again entertained the Louisville conference.

Dr. Lyon, 1929–1930, one of the best educated and most capable men in the conference, was the next pastor. He was practical-minded, had many sterling qualities, and no doubt would have been of great benefit to the church had he been given the opportunity, but he remained only one year.

Settle Memorial's next minister was another transfer, this time from St. Louis: Dawson C. Bryan, 1930–1934. Unfortunately, Mr. Bryan was pastor during the depression, and consequently very little could be accomplished; but in spite of this, all budget obligations were paid in full, and in 1932 the church again entertained the Louisville conference.

20In the fall of 1934 the Bishop sent to this charge Mr. Bedford Turner. Though he has been the pastor for only a few months, he has taken charge of the difficulties with a firm hand. He has already gained the confidence of his members. By his many sterling qualities, his executive ability, sincerity and hopeful outlook, he has imbued them with confidence in his leadership and with courage to go forward and rid the church of its indebtedness, and they will. The spirit of their Methodist forefathers is pushing them forward. They will live up to their heritage.

On Easter Sunday, April 21, 1935, at the request of the pastor, a cash offering was made to be applied on the interest of the church debt, which was now $10,340. Three thousand dollars was asked for, and $5,480 was brought and laid on the altar. This, with a contribution from the bondholders, enabled the finance committee to clear the interest on this bonded indebtedness. It was a joyous occasion, and added new life and encouraged the congregation to renewed efforts to cancel the entire debt in the near future.

21There have been several persons serving as assistant to the pastor, namely: Misses Rosa Lowe, Len Bailey, Ruth Baker, Alma Pitts, Annie Vick, Mrs. Maude Fullerton, Miss Christopher and Mrs. Gregson. These ladies have served faithfully, and their reports to the board should make the board ashamed of their own records.

Mrs. Maude Fullerton was one of the most popular women in the church. Though her stay here was short, she endeared herself to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. A beautiful character, a lovely woman with a charming personality, cheerful even in the face of greatest pain, she never bored others with her troubles, and few knew her condition. Her death, after rallying from an operation, came as a great shock to her scores of friends and admirers, especially to the young people of the church with whom she worked and who adored her.

There have been many revivals in Settle Memorial, and two stand out above the others. One was conducted by a little blind man brought here by Dr. Powell, who had known him a long time. This afflicted man radiated Christianity; and looking at him, one realized their own unworthiness, ungratefulness and selfishness. One night he told the story of his going blind, and it seemed as though God himself was right in the midst of them. There was an awe over the entire congregation, and they passed out of the church without a sound or whisper.

Another great meeting was one conducted by Bishop Darlington. But who could do him justice? Those who know him, or have come under the spell of his preaching, feel that it is a benediction just to be in his presence and look on his face, which so plainly reflects his character, and to hear his glorious voice singing “Pass me not, O gentle Savior.”

When one takes a backward glance to 1907 and thinks of the men and women who gave, worked and sacrificed in order to help make Settle Memorial the beautiful structure it is, face after face rises up to greet us. Some have passed to their reward; others remain and are still striving to make God's work go forward. Some of these who have crossed the river, and are worthy of special notice, are T. H. Guthrie, W. B. Cosby, W. B. Palmer, R. S. Hughes, W. E. Parrish, George W. S. Parrish, N. B. Chambers, L. P. Little, John Wright, John Carter, Otis Parrish, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hoppe, El Duke and Alexander Hill. Some are still living: E. W. Smith, D. C. Stimson, W. R. Jagoe, B. D. Ringo, Frank Katterjohn, A. B. Thompson, H. H. Smith, Mrs. Will Parrish, Mrs. R. W. Littell, Mrs. D. C. Stimson, Mrs. H. A. Moore, Mrs. N. B. Cooke, Miss May Read, Mrs. Frank Katterjohn, Mrs. M. Eskridge, Mrs. R. S. Hughes, and many others too numerous to mention.

22Mr. R. S. Hughes was ever Dr. Thomas' right-hand man. Always interested in everything pertaining to the church, which he loved, he gave freely of his time and means. During the erection of the church he was on the grounds almost daily, seeing that everything was as it should be, helping to disentangle the many difficulties which arose, and serving where needed. His death was a great loss to the church.

This list would not be complete without some mention of our sexton, Henry Edwards. Henry was employed in 1894, but for some cause he gave up the position for two or three years, when he was re-employed and has continued in the service ever since — about thirty-eight years in all. Henry is a good Baptist, but he belongs to us, and we belong to him. All through these years he has been prompt, faithful, honest, and could be trusted with anything and anywhere. He has ever looked after the interest of his “folks” (as he calls them), tried to make them comfortable, and to please them. When special collections were taken, Henry was right there with his offering, often giving more than he could afford. It will be hard to find a truer, more faithful servant than Henry has been; those who have worked with him and know him thoroughly love him for his fine sterling qualities and Christian character, and feel sure his reward in the hereafter will be commensurate with his services in the House of the Lord.

The choir has ever been an added attraction to the service, the organists real musicians. They have been Miss Agnes Osborne, Miss Ella Goodson, Miss Margaret Keeley, Prof. L. Quigley, Miss Cassatt, Mrs. W. H. Horner, Mrs. Katherine Cassidy, Miss Margaret Franks, Miss Louise Jones and Mrs. Gene Mobberly.

23Among those who for years gave their voices free, feeling that God had given them this talent and it was only just and right to use it freely for Him, are Mrs. M. L. Ogden, Mrs. Yewell Bottorf, Mr. and Mrs. Frank E. Katterjohn, and Mr. E. W. Smith.

Mrs. Ogden for forty years sang in the choir, and was chairman of the music committee twenty-five years, and for thirty-five years played the piano for prayer meeting.

Present choir: Mrs. Gene Mobberly, organist; Miss Olga Leaman, director; Mrs. Yewell Bottorf, Mrs. T. R. Bannister, Mrs. S. A. Burns, Mrs. John Fletcher Barr, Mrs. George Bailey, Mary Jewell Mitchell, Miss Jeanne Davis, Miss Barbara Mitchell, Miss Rosa Bailey, Messrs. Daryl Bogard, C. O. Sandefer, Ray Purdy, Hewlett Whitmer, Walter Ellis, and Dr. Foster.

The Woman's Missionary Society was organized in 1881, both the foreign and home. They united in 1915. The presidents of the Foreign Missionary Society were Mrs. W. D. Stirman, Mrs. M. S. Drabelle, Mrs. Snyder, Mrs. T. H. Frayser, Mrs. T. R. Kendall, Mrs. M. Eskridge and Mrs. H. A. Moore.

The presidents of the Home Missionary Society were Mrs. Robert McJohnston, Mrs. N. B. Cooke, Mrs. G. A. Park and Mrs. R. S. Hughes.

24These societies have many firm believers in their cause, and many who give most of their time to increase the interest. Mrs. N. B. Cooke has from its beginning been an interested worker along this line. Also Miss May Read, Miss Vi Jones and Mrs. R. S. Hughes. They have remained staunch, true workers; their interest has never flagged. Mrs. H. A. Moore, another faithful adherent, has been first, last and always a missionary advocate. She was the society's president for nineteen years, and for twenty-two years never missed a meeting. These women, though thoroughly believing it right and proper to devote their time to this cause, did not for this reason refuse to do their duty elsewhere, but have always responded willingly when called upon.

The Missionary Society now has enrolled 200 members: Mrs. W. L. Fulton, president; Mrs. H. M. Berry, first vice president; Mrs. Burns, second vice president; Mrs. Brewer Montague, secretary; and Mrs. D. W. Kendall, treasurer. Band leaders: Mrs. J. W. Ament, Mrs. H. B. Warner, Mrs. Frank Roberts, Mrs. O. L. Fowler, Miss Pearl Read and Miss Vista Morris.

The Missionary Society has two associate societies: “The Business Women,” which meets in the evening, and “The Pollyannas,” a society of young people.

The Business Women: Miss Pearl Read, chairman; Miss Anna Carr Bennett, secretary; Mrs. Fleming Bowlds, treasurer.

The Pollyannas: Miss Vista Morris, chairman; Mrs. Martha Pollard, first vice president; Mrs. Mary Rose Barr, second vice president; Miss Louisa Ellis, secretary; Miss May Cromwell, treasurer.

The Methodists have entertained the conference eight times in its history: in the first church in 1853, 1862 and 1869; in Settle Chapel in 1881 and 1894; in Settle Memorial in 1908, 1925 and 1932. They have lost three ministers by death: the first church, J. C. Berry; Settle Chapel, Dr. Spurrier; and Settle Memorial, Dr. Miller.

The Sunday School, the strongest institution of the church, is in a flourishing condition. It has been served by many worthy men as its superintendent. Their names: W. E. Parrish, Frank Katterjohn (serving three times), Ernest Arnold, James H. Risley and J. W. Snyder. Enrollment at present, 542. It is well equipped for the work — a splendid building, eight pianos and necessary supplies, an excellent cohort of teachers and officers.

Some members enlisted on its roll as teachers on account of their faithfulness and loyalty for so many years are worthy of special mention. Mrs. Mary Ellen Hart, who for more than thirty years cared for the little tots. Later on she was assisted by her capable daughter, Mrs. E. W. Smith. Many men and women today recall with pleasure the Sunday morning class of long ago, when they sat at the feet of Mrs. Hart, listening to her stories, singing “Little Jewels,” or having the honor of sitting in the birthday chair. The happy hours spent there, her unfailing kindness and sweet smile will always bring delightful recollections to all who were fortunate enough to have come under her influence.

26Another earnest, reliable teacher was and is Mrs. Frank Katterjohn, who has served not only here, but everywhere in the church where work was to be done, for nearly forty years. Hundreds of the primary children adored “Miss Mamie” and look upon her as their second mother.

Mr. E. W. Smith, since his coming to Owensboro more than forty years ago, when he identified himself with the church, has ever been one of its most loyal, substantial supporters. Well educated, a conservative business man, ever on the right side of any question, he has served in every capacity — on the board, in the choir, and as Sunday School teacher. At present he is a trustee, and teacher of the woman's class named for him, the E. W. Smith Class. These women are devoted to their teacher and do not hesitate to acclaim his superiority over all other teachers.

One of Settle Memorial's greatest Sunday School teachers was Mr. Alexander Hill, whose tragic death a few months ago left a vacancy that will never be filled, as well as a most disconsolate group of men whose joy it was to listen every Sunday to his wonderful expounding of the scriptures. He was a member of the first church, the church in which his mother worked so long and faithfully; consequently Methodism was in his blood. He loved his church and all it stood for. Being a well-read man and a close Bible student, he was capable of holding the interest of his class, who often said that every lesson was a real sermon. Mr. Hill was not only a teacher, he was interested in all the needs of the church and ready to answer any call. His last written words were the closing lines for his next Sunday's lesson: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” How applicable for himself.

Miss Vitula Jones, long a teacher in the Sunday School from the early days of Settle Chapel until her health failed and compelled her to give up. She was faithful and generous to a fault where her church was concerned, and she will be justly rewarded.

The Young Adult Group, formerly the Epworth League, is a thriving organization of about thirty-five members. Its officers: Glen Lovern, president; Miss Bernice Morris, vice president; Miss Anna Ford McClanahan, secretary.

The High League enrolls thirty members. Its officers: Miss Barbara Mitchell, president; Ben Creamer, vice president; Brown Thigpen, treasurer.

The church now has 1,140 members.

Settle Memorial has been especially blessed in her pastors. All have been educated, bright, attractive men. Each and every one had some distinguishing quality, many of them possessing great spirituality, which made their influence great not only at that time but throughout the years. Three were noted for their brilliancy; others have been equally gifted as pastors; some have been writers. “The Coming Presence” (Dr. Thomas) is in the church library and has been read and enjoyed by many. “The Twentieth Century Home Builder” (Dr. Powell) is an interesting thesis on the home and the place of woman in the home.

28The Methodist church, starting in a log cabin, has now blossomed into a wonderful, stately building that is an honor to their God. This has been possible only because those early Methodists were men and women of strong Christian characters, zealous workers, with a great vision. They set a goal and kept their eyes toward it. They were not afraid or discouraged by misfortunes or calamities, but kept their faith and moved steadily forward. The result was beautiful Settle Memorial, surmounted with a crown, its forty-eight lights sending their beams far out in all directions. What does this magnificent building mean to us? Has it taught us to “so live that our light so shines before men that they, seeing our good work, may glorify our Father in heaven”? Has it helped us to lay a foundation of what is right and good and beautiful? Has it been an aid to resist temptation and keep ourselves free and unspotted from the world?

Let us go forward in the spirit of those early Methodists, unafraid, in perfect trust; let us live up to our heritage. May we always, as we enter this beautiful auditorium, be able to truthfully say, “I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the House of the Lord.”