M. E. Church

                                                                 Winfield.
M. E. CHURCH.
D. A. Millington History in Winfield Courier up to 1882.
Have no idea in what year the following was written in book put out by Greer. I noticed a lot of mistakes in the spelling of people’s names. Book showed Swartz, which was wrong. I could not find anyone by the name of “Sambier.” They had “Reed” when they should have shown “Read.” I question the name “James Gird.” It probably should have read “James Bird.” I took the liberty of correcting names that I knew were wrong. Article had the wrong initials for Dr. Graham’s brother.
[Sketch was put in book of First M. E. Church followed by article on page 27.]
The Methodist Episcopal church organization is the oldest in Cowley County, having been organized in May 1870 by Rev. B. C. Swarts, with but three members, to-wit: Dr. W. G. Graham, Fannie T. Graham, and J. F. Graham. During the next three months the membership was increased by addition to the church of James Dever, James Gird, James H. Land, James Parker, F. Sambier, and Anna Sambier. In September 1870 a movement was inaugurated to erect an edifice of worship. The Winfield Town Co. gave a lot on East Ninth avenue, east of the present post office building. Dr. Graham contributed the lumber and the society furnished the remaining material and the labor to complete the building. The church was completed and dedicated in May 1871. The building was 22 feet in width by 34 feet in length. It is still standing on East Ninth Avenue. Since it was vacated by the society, it has served both as a saloon and grocery store. Rev. J. O. Smith was the first pastor.
The cornerstone of the present building was laid by the Masonic fraternity, M. L. Read, master of ceremonies, in January 1877, and dedicated the same year.
Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.
Mr. C. A. Bliss is building a fine residence southeast of the M. E. church.
Winfield Messenger, July 26, 1872.
Festival. The ladies of Winfield and vicinity will give an ice-cream and melon festival Thursday evening, August 8th, 1872, for the benefit of the M. E. Church.
Winfield Messenger, November 8, 1872.
The slough that crosses Ninth avenue east of the M. E. church has had a small culvert put into it and the street well graded. This is an improvement that has long been needed.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 20, 1873.
Church Directory.
M. E. CHURCH. Rev. C. F. Williams, Pastor. Services each alternate Sunday, at 11 o’clock a.m., and at night. Prayer-meeting, every Thursday evening.
CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. Rev. J. B. Parmelee, Pastor. Services in the M. E. church each alternate Sabbath with their minister.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 6, 1873.

Oyster Supper. The ladies and friends of the M. E. Church will give an oyster supper on Friday evening, March 14th, for the benefit of their highly esteemed and worthy pastor, Rev. C. F. Williams. Fresh oysters, mush, and milk, coffee, cake, etc. will be in abundance. Good music and a general good time is antici­pated. A cordial invitation is extended. Admission free.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 22, 1873.
The M. E. Church will meet on next Sabbath at half past 9 o’clock, for the purpose of completing the organization of a Sabbath School.
Winfield Courier, January 30, 1874.
The Ladies of the M. E. Church will give an Oyster supper and Social in the Courthouse at Winfield, Feb. 4, 1874.
Winfield Courier, March 13, 1874.
The disciples of Christ are holding protracted meetings at the M. E. Church.
Winfield Courier, March 27, 1874.
The ladies of the M. E. Church will give a social at the residence of J. M. Dever Wednesday evening, March 11th. Tableaux and refreshments given.
Winfield Courier, March 27, 1874.
The Disciples of Christ will commence a series of meetings in Winfield, on Saturday evening, March 7th, at the M. E. Church, to be continued indefinitely. All are cordially invited to attend. Preaching brethren are expected from a distance. It is hoped that the brethren everywhere will unite in securing the success of the Gospel in its purity. S.
Winfield Courier, May 29, 1874.
The attention of our readers is directed to the card of John Weiss, who is engaged in blacksmithing at his shop opposite the Methodist Church. Johnny is a good workman, and those who have any business in his line should give him a call.
AD: John Weiss, blacksmith, has fitted up his new building Opposite the M. E. Church, and is now prepared to do everything in his line. HORSE-SHOEING A SPECIALTY
Winfield Courier, September 25, 1874.
The ladies of the M. E. Church will hold a social at the M. E. Church building on Wednesday evening, Sept. 30th, 1874. All are invited. Per order of committee.
Winfield Courier, December 3, 1874.
Quarterly Meeting. The third Quarterly meeting of the M. E. church will be held at Winfield December 12th and 13th. Preaching at 2 o’clock, on Saturday evening. Quarterly Conference service on Saturday night. J. McQUISTON.
Winfield Courier, February 4, 1875.
One week from tomorrow (Friday) evening, the ladies of the M. E. Church will give a sociable at the residence of Mrs. McMasters. This is the first of a series of sociables to be given—one by each church—the proceeds of which are to be applied toward paying the remaining indebtedness on the court­house bell. The debt amounts to $120. Everyone is invited to attend these sociables and thus assist in liquidating this debt.
Winfield Courier, October 28, 1875.

Religious exercises in our city last Sunday were varied and numerous. Preaching in the morning and evening at the Presbyterian, Methodist, and Christian churches; Sabbath school at the stone church by the Union S. S. and also by the Methodists at the same time at their church. Rev. Adams, late of New York, preached his initiatory sermon as successor to Rev. McQuiston at the Methodist church, while Rev. Blevins, of Eldorado, delighted a large audience by a practical sermon at the Christian church. Arrangements were begun by the M. E. S. S. looking toward holding bi-monthly concerts. Surely we’ll not want for religious exer­cises to attend the coming winter.
THE WINFIELD COURIER. CENTENNIAL ISSUE.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 6, 1876.
METHODIST. The society at Winfield was organized in May, 1870, by Rev. B. C. Swarts with three members, two full members and one probationer. This was the first organiza­tion in the county. In September following—the membership having increased to ten—the construction of a house of worship was decided upon. In May, 1871, a church building was completed. In March of 1871, the Kansas M. E. conference appointed Rev. L. A. Smith to fill the charge. Rev. Wm. Armstrong succeeded him; and in Aug. 1872 Rev. Williams took charge; and following him was Rev. John Lowrey in March, 1873. In March 1874, Rev. J. McQuiston was placed in charge, and finally in September, 1875, Winfield became a station with Rev. J. C. Adams as pastor. The Winfield society contains 56 members and owns a church and parsonage valued at $1,500. The M. E. denomination have organizations in the county, located as follows: One at Winfield, Little Dutch, Limbocker’s Schoolhouse, Fee’s Schoolhouse, Thomasville, Maple City, Coburn’s, Bolton, Dexter, Lazette, New Salem, South Bend, Arkansas City, Baltimore, and Rock Schoolhouse. The estimated membership is 400 in number. The society at Arkansas City own a parsonage.
Winfield Courier, February 24, 1876.
Next Sunday, Rev. Adams will preach his last sermon, at the M. E. church, before going to Conference. This eloquent young divine has made a host of friends during his short sojourn in our city, and the entire community hope he will be returned. Dame Rumor informs us that he will soon occupy the Parsonage if he returns.
Winfield Courier, June 22, 1876.
REV. J. L. RUSHBRIDGE, of the Western N. Y. Conference, having been transferred by Bishop Peck to the South Kansas Conference, and to Winfield charge, has arrived at his destina­tion, and will preach at the M. E. church on Sabbath morning, at 10 o’clock, and in the evening at 7.
Winfield Courier, September 21, 1876.
Services of the M. E. church Sunday next, in the morning, at 11 o’clock, when all the members of the church, especially, are requested to be present. Evening services at 7:30 o’clock. J. S. RUSHBRIDGE, Pastor.
Winfield Courier, November 9, 1876.
The M. E. Church Society has secured subscriptions amounting to over $2,100 for the purpose of erecting a fine $3,000 stone church in this city. The frame building they now use is too small to hold their increasing congregations.
Winfield Courier, November 16, 1876.
The Methodists have raised about $3,000 subscription for a new stone church. Work will commence at once.
Winfield Courier, November 16, 1876.
The M. E. Church building has been rented to the school board, and hereafter M. E. meetings, Sunday schools, etc., will be held in the Baptist church.
Winfield Courier, November 30, 1876.

The M. E. church parsonage was found to stand within the line of the proposed new building foundation, hence its removal was necessitated. The worry and bustle, caused by the moving of the house, prevented Mr. Rushbridge from delivering the sermon we indicated in last week’s issue. He will deliver it next Sunday.
Second M. E. Church: Located at southeast corner of Millington Street and 10 Ave.
Winfield Courier, November 30, 1876.
WORK has commenced on the new Methodist church at the southeast corner of Millington street and 10th Avenue. It will be 80 feet long and 40 feet wide, with a tower or steeple 20 by 20 at the northwest corner. The steeple will be 100 feet high, towering 20 feet above the new brick Presbyterian, standing opposite. The building is to be of white magnesia limestone, and when completed will have cost over $4,000.
Winfield Courier, November 30, 1876.
Notice to Contractors. Notice is hereby given that sealed proposals for laying the stone of the new M. E. Church will be received by the building committee until Saturday, Dec. 2nd, 1876, at which time the contract will be let to the lowest responsible bidder. The committee reserve the right to reject any and all bids. Plans and specifications can be seen at Read’s Bank, or address S. H. Myton, Winfield, Kansas. By order of the COMMITTEE.
Winfield Courier, December 7, 1876.
Thanksgiving. This day was quite generally observed by our citizens. There was union service at the Courthouse in the morning which was quite generally attended. In the evening, service was conducted by Rev. Platter at the courthouse and Rev. Rushbridge at the stone church. Several dinners were gotten up for the purpose of entertaining special friends, and we believe nearly everybody in town tasted turkey during the day. The tables of Messrs. Mansfield, Millington, Greenlee, Bedilion, Black, Manning, and many others were spread for many more than the total number, while excellent dinners were served at the hotels and restaurants for regular boarders and their invited guests. There was but little business done in town and our streets wore a Sunday-like appearance.
Winfield Courier, December 14, 1876.
The entertainment to be given tomorrow evening for the benefit of the M. E. church will be worthy of your patronage. Don’t fail to go.
Winfield Courier, December 14, 1876.
The contract has been let for the erection of the $4,000 stone church. Dirt handling, stone hauling, and the like have been commenced and our Methodist friends are happy.
Winfield Courier, January 4, 1877.
The spire of the new Methodist church in this place is to be over one hundred feet high.
Winfield Courier, January 4, 1877.
Laying the Cornerstone. The ceremonies of laying the cornerstone of the new M. E. church at Winfield will take place on Wednesday, January 10th, 1877, at 1 o’clock p.m. All masons in good standing are cordial­ly invited to be present and participate in the ceremonies.

PROGRAMME. The members of the order will meet at Masonic hall at 1 o’clock p.m., forming in procession, will march to the place where the building is to be erected. Music. Raising Cornerstone. Prayer, by Rev. J. E. Platter. Depositing coin, etc. Music. Ceremonies of laying Cornerstone. Anthem. Address of G. Master. Oration, by Rev. J. L. Rushbridge. Benediction.
Winfield Courier, January 4, 1877.
Notice to Masons. The brethren of Adelphi Lodge, No. 110, A. F. & A. M., are hereby notified and requested to be present and participate at the ceremony of laying the “cornerstone” of the new Methodist church in Winfield, at 1 o’clock, Wednesday, the 10th inst. Neighboring lodges are also invited to be present and assist on that occasion. Ample provision will be made for the comfort of guests from abroad. By order of the lodge.
W. G. GRAHAM, W. M. JAMES KELLY, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, January 11, 1877.
A Cornerstone. The cornerstone of the new M. E. Church building was favorably lowered to its resting place yesterday, at 2 o’clock p.m. A derrick had been erected over the northwest corner of the sub-structure of the edifice and a beautiful white magnesia limestone two feet in length, eighteen inches wide, and one foot in thickness, with a cavity chiseled upon its lower side, pre­pared for the occasion. Between the hours of one and two p.m., a procession was formed in front of Masonic Hall, composed principally of members of the Masonic fraternity, including several from the Arkansas City and Douglass lodges. The order of procession was as follows: First, Tyler, with drawn sword, stewards, master masons, members of the order, band of music, city officers, Royal Arch Masons, past master, oldest member of the order, carrying bible, square, and compass, chaplain and orator, wardens of Winfield Lodge deputy G. M., deacons on either side. The procession marched to music to the building grounds. A large concourse of people were already at the appointed place.
The ceremony of settling the consecrated stone in the place where it shall rest for ages, commenced by an invocative prayer, full of eloquence, passion, and pathos, from Rev. Platter. At this point of the proceeding the ancient order of Masons conduct­ed the ceremony. High Priest Read was master of the occa­sion. The stone was squared, leveled, and plumbed, corned, oiled, and wined, surrounded with jewels, badges, weapons, and ceremonial words that were imposing and impressive, but not fully compre­hended by the uninitiated.
The High Priest produced a small tin box containing a copy of the Telegram, Traveler, and COURIER. Also, a history of the county of Cowley, city of Winfield, M. E. Church Society, a list of its officers, name of pastor, names of contributors to the building fund, a specimen of all American coins, a centennial 25 cent piece, and other mementos of interest to “ages yet to be” and in presence of the audience it was sealed and placed in the under side of the stone.
Contractor Welch then, by direction of the High Priest, settled the “cornerstone,” amid benedictions, music by the choir and band. Rev. Rushbridge delivered an oration that came from the heart and went to the hearts of his hearers. The benedictions being pronounced and doxology sung, the assembly dispersed. Taken all together the occasion was the most noted that ever transpired in our little frontier city, and will long be remem­bered by the participants.
Winfield Courier, January 11, 1877.
R. R. STOUT now owns and runs the blacksmith shop opposite the Methodist church. He is a good workman and clever citizen.
Winfield Courier, January 11, 1877.

AD: R. R. STOUT, BLACKSMITH, WINFIELD, KANSAS. I have opened a shop opposite the old Methodist church, where all kinds of blacksmithing will be promptly done at reason­able rates.
Winfield Courier, January 11, 1877.
The lumber for the new Methodist church comes from Lippman’s mill.
Winfield Courier, January 11, 1877.        
A copy of last week’s COURIER was put into the cornerstone of the new M. E. church yesterday.
Winfield Courier, February 1, 1877.
MR. KINNE liberally offers to record deeds, patents, and certificates from February 5th to the 10th, and donate the fees to the building funds of the two new churches in this city.
Winfield Courier, February 1, 1877.
For those who wish to assist in the building and completion of the two fine churches now in process of erection, in Winfield, I have this proposition to make: Bring in your deeds, patents, and certificates, which you have neglected for so long, together with the fee for recording the same, and I will do the work and donate the proceeds to the above cause, commencing on Monday, February 5th, and continuing until Saturday the 10th. Bring on your work, the more the better. E. P. KINNE, Register of Deeds. Winfield, Jan. 30, 1877.
Winfield Courier, February 8, 1877.
MR. WELCH, the contractor on the M. E. Church at this place, has been dangerously ill at his home in Arkansas City this week.
Winfield Courier, March 1, 1877.
While unloading heavy timber at the new M. E. Church last Saturday morning, Mr. C. H. Cross had the ankle of his right leg fractured.
Winfield Courier, March 22, 1877.
M. E. Church services at the Baptist Church next Sabbath, March 25th. Preaching by the pastor, J. L. Rushbridge, morning and evening, at 11 and 7 o’clock. Subject of evening discourse, “Revelation and the religious thought of the ages.”
Winfield Courier, April 5, 1877.
M. E. Welch, the contractor and superintendent of the stone work upon the M. E. church building in this place, is a well skilled mechanic and is executing tip-top work on the building in hand. When completed it will be a credit to him as well as to the city.
Winfield Courier, April 12, 1877.
The supper at the Courthouse, which was given by the ladies of the M. E. church, was a grand affair. The receipts amounted to about $30, and will be added to the church building fund.
Winfield Courier, June 7, 1877.
The large windows, with fine cut and stained glass, for the new M. E. church, arrived Tuesday evening last.
Winfield Courier, June 7, 1877.
The ice cream festival given by the ladies of the M. E. Church Society, at the Courthouse on last Friday evening was the most enjoyable entertainment we have attended this season.
Receipts about $25.
Winfield Courier, June 28, 1877.

On the last Sabbath of July or the first in August, the new Methodist church in this place will be dedicated.
Winfield Courier, July 5, 1877.
The dedication services of the new M. E. church will take place on Sunday, August 5th, 1877. Rev. C. C. McCabe, D. D., of Chicago, will be present.
Winfield Courier, July 5, 1877.
We were shown, by Rev. J. L. Rushbridge, a very beautiful design of fountain and chandelier, which it is proposed to put in the new Methodist church. We hope it will be done.
Winfield Courier, July 19, 1877.
The 107½ feet spire on the new M. E. church is nearly up.
Winfield Courier, July 19, 1877.
The wind storm last Sunday evening blew forty feet in height of the steeple scaffolding off from the new M. E. church in this place.
Winfield Courier, July 19, 1877.
The Dedication of the M. E. Church, Winfield, will take place July 12th, 1877. SERVICES: At 10:30 a.m., sermon, Rev. C. R. Pomeroy; 10:30 a.m., address, Rev. C. C. McCabe, D. D.; 2:30 p.m., Rev. A. H. Walter; 2:30 p.m. address, Dr. Pomeroy; 7:30 p.m., dedication exercises, Dr. McCabe. Services conducted by Rev. A. H. Walter, P. E.
Reference to both the Presbyterian Church and the M. E. Church...
Winfield Courier, July 26, 1877.
The new churches are being plastered.
Winfield Courier, July 26, 1877.
The M. E. church has ordered the chandelier made of the new Rigby lamp, a Winfield man’s invention.
Winfield Courier, August 2, 1877.
The one hundred and seven foot spire of the new M. E. Church is completed. It looks well. Messrs. Hyde and Smiley constructed it.
Winfield Courier, August 9, 1877.
Next Sabbath the new M. E. Church building of this place will be formally dedicated to the worship of the Lord. The occasion promises to be one of unusual interest. Rev. C. C. McCabe, famed throughout the United States for his eloquence and melody, will be among the noted personages present. Rev. C. C. Pomeroy of Emporia, Rev. A. H. Walter, Presiding Elder of this district, and other divines will participate in the ceremonies. The new church is the finest structure of the kind in this State south and west of Lawrence. It is a proud monument to the enterprise of its founders and a worthy tribute from human hands to the worship of “Him who doeth all things well.” The congregation on that occasion will test the accommodating capacity of the elegant building.
Winfield Courier, August 16, 1877.         

The M. E. Church Free From Debt. On Sunday last in the new stone church one of the largest audiences that ever met in Winfield congregated to help dedicate the new and imposing edifice to the good of man and the glory of God. C. R. Pomeroy, D. D., of Emporia; C. C. McCabe, D. D., of Chicago; Presiding Elder Walters, of Wichita; J. E. Fox, P. E. at Hutchinson; Rev. J. Kirby, and Rev. J. P. Harson, of Wichita; Rev. H. J. Walker, Wellington; Rev. J. W. Stewart, Oxford; Reverends B. C. Swarts, Arkansas City; E. Nance, Maple City; ____ Long, of Tisdale; W. H. McCamey, of Dexter; J. E. Platter, C. J. Adams, P. Lahr, and J. L. Rushbridge, pastor, of Winfield, assisted in the labors of the day. Chaplain McCabe spoke for an hour to an attentive and interested audience, pointing in forcible and glowing terms to the work of the church, the needs of our people, the dangers to our Republic, and the saving power of religion in matters of dollars and cents, of bread and butter. True is it, as he said, that the demon of intemperance finds its most untiring and relentless antagonist in the church of Christ. As a social, a political, an economical, and an educational investment, our church capital is productive beyond all other investments.
The sermon of the morning was followed by a statement from Mr. Rushbridge concerning the financial condition of the M. E. Church of Winfield. A building had been erected at an expense of $7,000, of which some three thousand dollars remained unpaid. The work of this day, the prefatory exercises of the dedication, was to raise the sum of twenty-five hundred dollars, which would practically cancel the immense debt of the church and free the building from all encumbrances. At this announcement from Mr. Rushbridge, the hearts of the most hopeful failed them, and few felt that the work of this day would remove this immense burden. In a few minutes contributions and subscriptions began to pour in. One hundred dollars was reached—then five hundred, and soon a thousand had been subscribed, and then the hopes of all grew stronger, and the purses of the many grew liberal, while rich and poor, male and female, saint and sinner, gave of their means to aid the noble cause. By the close of the morning services about eight hundred dollars had been given. At the afternoon exercises a few hundred more was given, and at night the entire amount of twenty-five hundred dollars was reached, and then the audience rose up and sang that grand old song, “Praise God from whom all Blessings Flow.” The work was done! The church was free! The service of dedication was finished, and the people departed to their homes proud of the beautiful edifice which adorns our city, but prouder still of that generosity and liberality which adorns the hearts and minds of our enterprising citizens. Of the music, of the songs, of the sermons, of the vast crowd assembled, we say nothing, as the entire city seemed to have been present and to enjoy the occasion, and so our readers need no comments upon these matters. An elegant silver set for communion service, presented by F. M. Friend, and a fine clock from Will Hudson were among the donations.
The building is 40 x 80 feet in size, with an arched ceiling 27 feet high. It is beautiful in outline and harmonious in its appointments.
Winfield Courier, August 23, 1877.
Rev. J. L. Rushbridge is going east to be absent a few weeks and recruit after his months of arduous labor in building a church and raising the funds to pay for it, in addition to his regular pastoral duties.
Winfield Courier, August 30, 1877. Front Page.
M. J. MILLER, Architect and Builder, WINFIELD, KANSAS.
Designs for buildings of any description, with estimates of cost, free. To all those with whom I make contracts I desire to call attention to the fact that I can and will do as good work, and as at low prices, as any workman can do it. Call and see me before you build. A liberal share of patronage solicited. Shop next to old M. E. church building.

Winfield Courier, September 27, 1877.
Opening Services at the Methodist church on Sabbath next, Sept. 30th. Preaching by the pastor at 11 a.m., sermon in monosyllables to the young. At 7:30 p.m., sermon. Subject, “The Great Mystery.” The public are requested to visit the committee at the church on Friday next at 3 p.m., to select seats in the church. All seats free. J. L. Rushbridge, Pastor.
Winfield Courier, October 4, 1877.
The vane on the M. E. church steeple was a little too vain. The wind yesterday bent it over to a more humble posture.
Winfield Courier, October 11, 1877.
The Ladies’ Aid Society, of the M. E. Church, will give a supper and sociable in the lecture room on Friday evening of next week, October 19, 1877. Proceeds for the building fund.
Winfield Courier, October 11, 1877.
Churches.
Winfield has four excellent church buildings. The Baptist Church was built of Magnesian limestone in 1871, at a cost of $2,500. At that early day when but few people had located on the town site, it was something quite wonderful that so good and costly a structure should be built. The enterprise, energy, and public spirit displayed in the erection of this church has not been excelled or equaled, considering the circumstances, in the erection of the more recent and more imposing structures.
A M. E. frame church was erected at the same time, when the Methodists were few, and their self-sacrificing energy at that time was at least equal to that exhibited in producing their present new and magnificent structure. This last was built during the past year, of magnesian limestone, costing $7,000, and is perhaps the most spacious and imposing church in Southern Kansas. It is capable of seating, comfortably, 800 to 1,000 people; has a fine orchestra and class room, is beautifully furnished, and its windows are magnificent.
The building of the Church of Christ is a fine frame building, built in 1874, when the church had very few members, but these few were thoroughly imbued with genuine Western enterprise.
The Presbyterian Church, which has been built during the last year at a cost of $9,000, is of brick, with a stone basement, and is perhaps the most beautiful structure of the kind in Southern Kansas. It is magnificently furnished, and is a delightful place to spend an hour.
Other churches are projected and will probably be built within a year or two.
Winfield Courier, October 18, 1877.
A small cyclone, with heavy rain, passed over this city last Monday afternoon at 4 o’clock. The steeple of the new M. E. Church was thrown to the ground and utterly demolished, doing much damage to the tower and church. This is a serious misfortune after the large expense of money and energy in its erection.
Winfield Courier, October 18, 1877.
Services at Methodist Church next Sabbath as usual  Subject of evening discourse, “Inspired truth in its relation to the past, present, and future.”
Winfield Courier, October 18, 1877.

Remember the Supper and Sociable at the M. E. Church next Friday at 5 o’clock p.m. Let everybody get a square meal for once, and help in time of need.
Winfield Courier, October 18, 1877.
Ground is broken near the old M. E. Church for a new bakery.
Next item refers to M. J. Miller, mentioned before [August 30, 1877]...
Winfield Courier, October 18, 1877.
M. J. Miller, contractor, has elevated and lengthened his shop, and put on a new outside.
Winfield Courier, October 25, 1877.
It will take one thousand dollars to repair the M. E. Church and make a new steeple, and it is to be done at once. The steeple will be on a more beautiful plan than the first.
Winfield Courier, October 25, 1877.
There will be a meeting held in the classroom of the M. E. Church next Monday evening, for the purpose of organizing a Glee Club. All interested in singing are requested to attend.
Winfield Courier, November 1, 1877.
At a meeting held in the lecture room of the M. E. Church last Monday evening, an association called the “Winfield Musical Union” was organized, for the purpose of mutual improvement and enjoyment in music. It was decided to meet on Monday evening of each week, and to assess to each male member a monthly fee of 25 cents to defray the necessary expenses. Let everybody come out to the M. E. Church next Monday evening, and let us have a good time.
Excerpt from a lengthy article...
Winfield Courier, November 8, 1877.
             PUBLISHED EVERY THURSDAY BY MILLINGTON & LEMMON.
                                  [From the Kansas City Journal of Commerce.]
The Methodist church suffered the loss of its spire during the gale a week ago, a damage that will require one or two thousand dollars to repair. The ungodly of the town consider this a judgment upon the sinful pride of the society for getting their weather vane several fathoms nearer to the Celestial Gates than any other. The humility of these sinners is commendable.
Winfield Courier, November 8, 1877.
Some of the attendants at the Methodist Church last Sunday evening walked so loud that they jarred the church. There is no need of thumping along like striking with sledge hammers if you do wear boots weighing five pounds apiece.
Winfield Courier, November 15, 1877.
The heating apparatus at the M. E. Church did not work well last Sunday morning. The preacher and audience were smoked out before the sermon commenced.
Winfield Courier, November 15, 1877.
Quarterly meeting services will be held in the M. E. Church on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 24th and 25th, 1877. Preaching by the Rev. A. H. Walter, P. E.
Winfield Courier, November 15, 1877.
Union Thanksgiving services will be held in the Methodist Church on Thursday, Nov. 29th, at 11 a.m. Discourse by J. L. Rushbridge. All are cordially invited to take part in these services and thus acknowledge the blessings that have come to us from our Father.
J. E. PLATTER. J. L. RUSHBRIDGE.
Winfield Courier, November 22, 1877.

Revival meetings at the M. E. Church every night.
Winfield Courier, November 22, 1877.
Rev. A. H. Walter, P. E., will preach in the Methodist Church next Saturday and Sunday.
Winfield Courier, November 29, 1877.
The large eight-light chandelier in the Methodist Church fell down last Friday night and was completely broken to pieces. It fortunately happened that the lights had just been turned out after the evening services or the damage must have been very great. Truly it seems as if the fates were against the Methodist Church.
Winfield Courier, December 6, 1877.
The M. E. Church was crowded last Sunday evening.
Winfield Courier, December 13, 1877.
The new M. E. church is lighted by the latest style Rigby & Pryor lamps. A brass pipe,  about an inch and a half in diameter, suspended from the ceiling by four rods, passes through the center of the building, upon which, about four feet apart, are a number of lamps, which illuminate the building as well as gas.
Winfield Courier, December 13, 1877.
Winfield Institute Library. The citizens of Winfield are respectfully informed that Noble L. Prentis, Esq., of Topeka, has been engaged to deliver his highly interesting lecture, “The Old Country,” in the M. E. Church, the use of which has been kindly granted for the occasion, on Friday evening, Dec. 21st. Admission, 40 cents; two tickets, 75 cents; Reserved seats, 50 cents. Doors open at 7 o’clock, lecture to commence at 8.
Winfield Courier, December 20, 1877.
Work is progressing on the M. E. Church steeple.
Winfield Courier, December 20, 1877.
The Winfield schools will give an entertainment at the Methodist Church on Thursday evening. Admission free.
Winfield Courier, December 20, 1877.
M. E. SUNDAY SCHOOL. The M. E. Sunday school expect their “ship to come in” Christmas Eve. She will anchor at northeast corner of the M. E. Church. It is said that she will be well laden with beautiful and costly gifts for the children. The seats in front of the landing place will all be free and will no doubt be well filled with happy children expecting an interest in the cargo. The ship will be manned by W. O. Johnson, Joseph Porter, Charles Dever, Frank Robinson, Alvah Graham, Willie Lappin, and Geo. Black, sailors. All expecting friends or gifts on the ship are expected to be at the landing. S. S. COMMITTEE.
Winfield Courier, December 27, 1877.
J. F. Berner has his bakery on Ninth avenue by the old Methodist church in operation. He has a new and substantial building, is making complete arrangements for his business, and is turning out just the best and cleanest kind of bread, cakes, pies, and confectionery. We have tried his bread and know whereof we speak. See his card in this paper.
CARD: PHILADELPHIA BAKERY. J. F. Berner, Proprietor, Ninth Avenue, one block east of McGuire & Crippen’s store. All kinds of confectionery, bread, cakes, pies, etc., constantly on hand. We have the best ovens, the best baker, and keep the best bread in the city. Try us.

Winfield Courier, December 27, 1877.
                                                        School Entertainment.
On Thursday evening last, one of the largest audiences we have witnessed in this town was entertained in a most enjoyable manner at the M. E. Church by the pupils of our city schools. The entertainment was under the management of Prof. George W. Robinson, assisted by Misses Saint, Wickersham, and Bryant. At an early hour every available seat in the church was occupied by some friend of the school, eagerly waiting for the commencement of the exercises. At about quarter after 7 o’clock the programme was commenced by a piece of music entitled “Home of Rest,” very beautifully rendered by Misses Dever, Haine, Lowry, and Newman. We have not time nor space to make minute mention of each part of the exercises, but will make the sweeping statement that every part was excellent and merited great praise, and will let it suffice by mentioning more particularly a few which greatly impressed us. We considered the concert reading by the Fifth reader class of Miss Emma Saint’s department the best exercise of the evening, in that it showed better than anything else the progress which the pupils are making. It showed great labor and training on the part of the teacher as well as the pupils. The recitation of the “Bridal Wine Cup,” by Miss Lizzie Kinne, was very affecting, and left a deep impression on the minds of the listeners. The “Old Bachelor,” by one of the little boys, tugged hard at the heart-strings of many present. The recitation, “Tom’s Come Home,” by Miss Haidee Tresize, was very affecting. “The Three Lovers,” as read by Miss Inez Daniels, was excellent, and we hope the moral contained therein may be heeded by the young men of our flourishing town. Taken as a whole, the entertainment was a grand success. Great credit is due to our teachers for the manner in which the whole matter was conducted.
Winfield Courier, December 27, 1877.
Prentis. Notwithstanding the superabundance of rain and mud, the lecture of Noble L. Prentis at the Methodist Church last Friday evening was well attended and was a vivid word-picture panorama of the ocean ship, Liverpool, London, Edinburgh, and many other scenes in England, Scotland, and Ireland, interspersed with anecdotes, historic sketches, quaint wit, deep pathos, and noble sentiments. The audience, composed of persons who read, think, and criticize, and who have heard most of the best lecturers of the country, seem to agree in the verdict, that as a popular lecture, this of Prentis’ is one of the very best.
Winfield Courier, December 27, 1877.
Santa Claus usually travels in a sleigh drawn by tiny reindeer, but this year, owing to the late rains, he had to come in a ship. The cargo was discharged at the M. E. Church.
Winfield Courier, January 3, 1878.

Grand Reception. The grandest reception ever in Winfield was given by Rev. Mr. Rushbridge and wife on New Years in the lecture room of the M. E. Church. Being in close proximity with their house, the food could be transported to the tables boiling hot. Before the quadrupeds and bipeds were mutilated by the carving knife, the tables, which were laid for about seventy-five, presented the handsomest appearance, decorated, as they were, with glistening silver. We could not, if we tried, give the exact bill of fare, but will make a slight attempt: Turkey and cranberry sauce, roast pig, roast beef, boiled ham, all kinds of vegetables, great variety of cake, plum pudding, tea and coffee, candies, nuts, etc., ending up with a friendly chat and some fine music. Mr. and Mrs. Rushbridge well understand the secret of entertaining a large company, and all expressed themselves as having passed a few hours most agreeably. A GUEST.
Winfield Courier, January 3, 1878.
One of the hardest worked men in this country is Rev. A. H. Walter, P. E. He has charge of the Methodist churches of Sedgwick, Butler, Cowley, Sumner, Harvey, Chase, and Kingman counties. During the summer and fall he has traveled, in his own conveyance, nearly four thousand miles, and preached from four to six sermons each week, conducting also from one to two quarterly meetings, and administering the sacrament each week, besides transacting the usual business pertaining to these quarterly meetings. Few men could stand the pressure of such a mental and physical task, and bear up as does the gentleman named, who maintains his vigor and enthusiasm to a wonderful degree in spite of all. The churches of the district are fortunate in the ministrations and untiring work of so talented and persevering a Presiding Elder as Rev. A. H. Walter. Eagle.
Winfield Courier, January 31, 1878.
The Murphy Temperance movement will be inaugurated at the M. E. church on Friday evening of this week. Addresses by Revs. Platter, Rushbridge, and others. Let all friends of temperance rally.
Winfield Courier, January 31, 1878.
Quarterly meeting services at the M. E. Church next Saturday and Sunday. Preaching by Rev. A. H. Walter on Saturday evening at 7 o’clock and Sunday morning at 11 o’clock. Love feast at 9 a.m. Subject of evening discourse, by the pastor, “Does the Bible teach the existence of a local, endless hell.”
Winfield Courier, March 14, 1878.
The sexton of the M. E. Church particularly requests that tobacco chewers leave their quids outside the church and avoid spewing on the floor. The ladies, no doubt, second the motion.
[Note: I quit after last entry. There was no more mention of the “steeple” in the articles that I covered after December 20, 1877, item up to the point where I quit.]