1918 Cedrus Yearbook

19 Ct 18 METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH Rev. Jos. W.Patton INCE the early "circuit rider" of the Methodist people was not far behind the pioneer and family, it is not at all surprising to learn that the present society had its beginning some time about the year 1810. Their own church records show that about this time a class was organized at Union (Spring Valley) and in all probability Cedarville together with many other points were operated together. And so tradition informs us that in the year 1810, "meetings" were being held on the site of the building now occupied by Mrs. Elizabeth Shroades. In the early "twenties" Quarterly Conferences and regular Communion services were being held at that place. This meant that a Society had been regularly organized, and its pastor and times for preaching and at stated intervals received official recognition and visits from the "Presiding Elder." As early as 1830, according to Court Records, the class had outgrown its place of meeting. A lot was purchased and a church was erected on the site of the present building. Some of the original ground was sold and other bought until the property became the present size and pro- portions. By 1853 it was necessary to replace this building with another and larger. This was indeed a church of some proportions when the period is taken into consideration. For many years this was the place where the "Circuit Rider" preached, revivals were held and souls added to the King- dom. This same building is the present auditorium, the whole building having been changed and enlarged during the pastorate of Rev.W.E.Putt, D.D. The present building now has a modern room for all Sunday School services, prayer-meetings and social meetings and also Sunday School class rooms. The Sunday School has its piano and the church a pipe-organ. By an action on the part of the officiary of the church, any member is allowed to take lessons on the organ provided he will play for the church services should occasion arise. The Sunday school is under the able leadership of Mr.L.H.Sullenberger. The present pastor, Jos. W. Patton, is just now closing his fifth year as the pastor. REV. JOS. W. PATTON. 58