Worth County, Iowa

Churches
First Baptist Church

The First Baptist church of Northwood was organized April 1, 1877, by Rev. Alva Bush, of Cedar Valley Seminary; Rev. Miner of Charles City; Rev. Hoyt of Albert Lea. Rev. Alva Bush and others formed the Council of Recognition which was held in the M. E. church May 26, 1877.

For some years previous to this time occasional preaching services were held by Rev. Palmer and others. Services were held in the Presbyterian and M. E. churches and in the old court house, until the erection of the present church edifice in 1881-1882, during the pastorate of Rev. J. W. Daniels.

The parsonage was erected during pastorate of Rev. J. G. Johnson. In l905 the church organ, a gift from Mr. and Mrs. Lemuel Dwelle, was installed.

The church edifice is a commodious and comfortable structure and the organization is in a prosperous condition. In February of this year Evangelist Fred Berry, of Indianola, led in a successful series of revivals, resulting in additions to the membership and a general quickening of religious spirit within the church.

In addition to the church proper the usual auxiliary organizations are maintained. A thriving Ladies' Aid and a growing Baptist Young People's Union are helpful and encouraging features. Comprising in its membership some of the most substantial citizens of our city and led by a young, splendidly equipped and energetic pastor, the future of the First Baptist church of Northwood cannot help but be bright.

Pastors as follows:

1. Rev. N. F. Hoyt, 1877-81
2. Rev. J. W. Daniels, 1881-82
3. Rev. N. H. Daily, 1885-87
4. Rev. G. H. Starring. 1887-89
5. Evangelist A. C. Blackman, 1889
6. Rev. J. G. Johnson, 1889-94
7. Rev. A. K. Lewis. 1894-97
8. Rev. J. F. Wood. 1897-98
9. Rev. H. H. Beach. 1899-1901
10. Rev. Robt. Gray, 1901-03
11. Rev. E. M. Jeffers. l903-06

The present pastor, Rev. Chas. McHarness, began his labors here March 1, l906.