Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, May l4, l896

The trial of MRS. LAURA J. HEDRICK, of Grand River, charged with disturbing an assemblage gathered for the purpose of worship, attracted a large crowd to the court house on Monday and Tuesday. The case commenced before Squire Albaugh, but the defendant took a change of venue to Squire Parrish. The prosecution was represented by county attorney McVay, and Stookey & Brooks conducted the defense. A jury composed of J.R. Bashaw, O.C. Clark, A.C. Bonsor, R.L. Clark and Geo. Custer were sworn and the trial commenced. The evidence disclosed the fact that the defendant had been a member of the Christian Church at Grand River, and about the last of March, Rev. Kauffman, the Pastor, had announced from the pulpit that charges had been preferred against her, and that the fellowship of the church was withdrawn from MRS. HEDRICK. The accused demanded a church trial, but it was maintained that the discipline of the church did not permit a church trial. On the evening of April 25th, it being his regular appointment, Rev. Kauffman and congregation were assembled at the church when MRS. HEDRICK appeared and demanded a trial, claiming that the minister had promised to give her a trial that evening. The minister claimed he had made no such promise, and when he attempted to start a hymn, MRS. HEDRICK announced there would be no services there that night until she had been given a trial, and stepping to the organ she sharply rang a bell used for calling the Sunday School to order. This was repeated for some time whenever the minister attempted to commence his services and finally a constable was sent for. The services were finally held and on Monday the minister filed an information against MRS. HEDRICK charging her with disturbing a religious meeting. About thirty witnesses were examined, and the jury, after being out about four hours, brought in a verdict of guilty. Squire Parrish fined her $75 and costs, which were $l42. The defendant filed an appeal to the District Court.

Copied by Nancee(McMurtrey)Seifert
"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
October 25, 2002