First Christian Church - 150 years of services

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Posted By: Joey Stark
Date: 9/27/2008 at 19:50:18

"The Fairfield Ledger", Tuesday, September 23, 2008, Page 2
Lifestyles Section

First Christian Church celebrates 150 years

The First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Fairfield will celebrate its sesquicentennial Saturday and Sunday.

The First Christian Church was founded Sept. 27, 1858. At that time, the entire congregation consisted of 39 members. The church suffered some hardships throughout the years, and a combination of deaths, removals from membership and the American Civil War caused the church to become dormant. It was reorganized once more in 1864 with a congregation of 23 members and the purchase of a brick schoolhouse. Purchasing the schoolhouse and renovating it into a church cost a total amount of $3,500. Articles in incorporation of the Christian Church were filed March 17, 1870.

The church remained in the former school house until March of 1870, when the church property was sold for $450, and two lots located on the northeast corner of East Broadway and North C Street were purchased for $400.

The church was remodeled in the summer of 1899, and a Sunday school room, parlor, auditorium and kitchen were added for a total cost of more than $5,000.

The congregation moved again in the spring of 1926 when two lots were bought on the northeast corner of West Burlington Avenue and Third Street for $7,500. The building was dedicated Sept. 9, 1928. The church received new additions in 1953, which included an entire second story.

In 1996, the church completed the most recent addition. An elevator was added to ease funerals and individuals who struggle with stairs. The elevator addition cost $200,000.

Activities for the sesquicentennial celebration include a 5:30 p.m. potluck dinner Saturday with entertainment provided by Ron and Sue Fischer and the Country Round-Up Band. The program also will honor those who have been married in the church.

Sunday will include a 10:30 a.m. worship, a noon catered dinner and a 1:30 p.m. program. The program will include sharing of memories, special music and a reception following.

*Transcribed for genealogy purposes; I have no relation to the person(s) mentioned.

Jefferson Documents maintained by Joey Stark.
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