Bonaparte Presbyterian Church Dedication

EICH, STUTSMAN, VAN DORN, JOHNSON, BRIDGE

Posted By: Karen Bergquist Uhr, Volunteer
Date: 4/21/2003 at 16:42:05

CHURCH DEDICATION
The New Presbyterian Church at Bonaparte Formally opened to Public Worship Sunday

Feb. 2 was a red letter day for the members and friends of the Presbyterian church, it being the dedication of their new building. The church is a handsome brick structure with stone trimings. It contains the main auditorium, a large Sunday school room, two small class rooms, besides the basement, which will be finished off later into a dining room and kitchen. It was designed by George Eich of Chicago , a son of Mr. and Mrs. Jocob Eich of Bonaparte. It cost over $6000, including windows, etc. Mrs. E. L. Stutsman gave two windows in memory of her father, Rev. Levis, the founder of the church, and of Dr. D. W. Stutsman, her husband. Mrs. Phil Eich presented a window in memory of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Van Dorn. Mr. and Mrs. Jas. Bridge gave one in memory of their son, and the C. E. society presented one. Messrs. J. A. and Geo. B. Johnson will present the church with a bell as a memorial to their mother.

Three services were held Sunday, at all of which the church was filled to its capacity. Music was furnished by the choir, assisted by Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Moore of Keokuk, on violin and cornet, and Mrs. J. A. Johnson on the pipe organ. At the morning service, the Rev. Purmort, superintendent of home missions in Iowa, gave an interesting sermon. Mr. Moore played a beautiful violin solo during the offertory, and at the conclusion of the sermon Miss Mollie Gardner rendered a beautiful solo.

The afternoon service was that of communion administered by Dr. Hinitt of Fairfield and Dr. Purmort. Special music was rendered, and two members were received.

In the evening Dr. Hinitt preached a sermon which was enjoyed by all. Many of those present considered it one of the most scholarly addresses that has been heard here for some time.

The members and pastor of the church are to be congratulated that their efforts in securing such a fine building have been successful. It is a credit to them and also to the town.

Note: Year likely 1901