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Website for St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
Organized June 7, 1847
Duly Incorporated
February 13th, 1849
In 1845
Episcopal Priest Melancthon Hoyt began holding services in Watertown. He traveled on foot from Fox Lake.
In
1847 he organized a small group of English and Welsh settlers as the
congregation of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
The
Episcopal Church is sometimes called The Protestant Episcopal Church in the
U.S.
1845
The
first service was held by Rev. Melancthon Hoyt in June, 1845. The parish was organized in 1847, and duly
incorporated February 13th, 1849.
1847
06 30 An
Episcopal Church, bearing the above name, was organized in this village some
two weeks since; and services may hereafter be expected every third Sabbath, in
the Methodist Church, by the Rev MELANCTHON HOYT, of the General Domestic
Missionary Society of the Protestant Episcopal Church. Mr. H. for the past eighteen months has
labored in the interior of this territory: but now preaches,
upon each alternate Sabbath, at Watertown, Whitewater and Fox Lake. The society here is as large as is generally
to be found in the interior of any new country, though the number of
communicants is small.
Three
years since there were but three preachers of the Episcopal denominations in
Wisconsin - now there are twenty-two.
Watertown
Chronicle
1847
The Journal of the Proceedings of the First
Annual Council of the Diocese of Wisconsin records that St. Paul's church,
Watertown, had been organized on June 7 of 1847 and was thus exactly seventeen
days old when this council met in St. Paul's church, Milwaukee. Another parish had been organized on the same
day, St. John's, Milwaukee, and thus these two churches came to this first
Council as newly organized twin parishes.
The minister of St. Paul's, Watertown, was the Rev. Melancthon Hoyt, who
also had Christ church, Fox Lake and St. Luke's, Whitewater, under his
charge. The Watertown parish had only
five members at the time, but attendance at services is reported as more than a
hundred.
The
original church structure stood on 3rd Street between 
Market
and Jefferson Streets. The cornerstone
of the present church was laid in 1859 by Bishop Kemper. The tower was added in 1890 by two
parishioners during the rectorate of the Rev. Dr. Jewell.
The
rectory was built in 1884 while the Rev. David Sanford was rector. Recent remodeling has made it a very
comfortable and enjoyable home.
In
1886 the chapel was given by Miss Susan Cady in
memory of her parents. About twenty-five
years ago it was de-consecrated and was used as a parish hall and the marble
altar was presented to St. Barnabas' Mission, Richland Center. In 1931 the present Parish House was erected
and is in memory of Mr. George Hawkins, who was largely responsible for its
erection. The chapel has since then been
reoccupied for services and St. Agatha's Guild has been working toward its
restoration.
One of
the most courageous moves of the parish was the dropping of the system of pew
rents in 1868, a bold move for those days, and the inauguration of the pledge
system. At the same time the rector's salary was doubled, truly a venture of
faith.
In the
same year the rector, the Rev. Dr. Dafter, organized a vested boys choir, not
so unusual today, but then distinctly rare, as there were only two other such
in the state, one in Janesville, the other at Racine College. The choir became immensely popular and St.
Paul's maintained a splendid choir down to about a generation ago. Today, like so many churches, the musical
efforts are largely congregational.
For a
church of its size St. Paul's has a very unusual pipe organ. It contains seventeen stops, nine of which
are from the original organ. Mr. George
Hawkins the donor, said: "The soul of the old organ is in the new."
Wagner, Harold Ezra, “The Episcopal Church in Wisconsin, 1847-1947. A History of the Diocese of Milwaukee,”
Courier Printing (Waterloo, WI), 1947, pp 262-263.
1848
02 23 Lots
4 and 5, block 15, on Third Street, in the residence of L. R. Cady, Esq., have
been selected as the site for the new Episcopal Church. The lots were donated by the Mill
Company. The location is central and
very pleasant. Watertown Chronicle
1849
The
parish was organized in 1847, and duly incorporated February 13th, 1849. The corner stone of the church edifice on Third Street
was laid by Bishop Kemper on the 21st of May, 1849. The church was consecrated by Bishop Kemper
on the 7th of November, 1849.
1858
10 21 A very desirable improvement is now being
made on Third Street in the way of building a sidewalk from Main Street to St.
Paul's church. Hereafter in the rainy
seasons it will be possible to approach that house of worship without wading
through any amount of mud and any depth of water. WD
10 23 Annual
Sunday School [Christmas] Festival; the school is free to all, the German,
Irish and American child, each interested in learning his duty to his
Maker WD
1859
02 17 Rev.
L. W. Russ, pastor, paid a Donation Visit at his residence WD
04 28 Officers
elected WD
08 25 Builders should not pass by unnoticed the advertisement in this paper calling
for proposals for building a new church in this city. The members of St. Paul’s church have long
found their house of worship too small to accommodate all who would like to
assemble there for Divine service and are making efforts to provide a larger
and better one. There is now a fair
prospect that they will succeed.
[advertisement] WHO WANTS WORK. Sealed Proposals will be received for ten
days by either of the undersigned for BUILDING A CHURCH in this city. Proposals must be made for building and
finishing the same entirely ready for occupation. Cash will be paid every three month. Plans and specifications can be examined at
the Jefferson County Bank.
—Daniel Jones, R. S. Little, A. L. Pritchard – Building
Committee, Watertown, Aug. 20th, 1859 WD
New Church Cornerstone Ceremony
1859
09 22 The corner stone of the
new church edifice, to be erected by the members of St. Paul’s Episcopal church
in this city, will be laid on this Thursday morning, at half past 9
o’clock. The congregation will assemble
at their present edifice at 9 o’clock in the forenoon. The Bishop and Clergy present, followed by
the Wardens and Vestry men, members of the congregation and others, will move
in procession to the ground on Second Street, where the corner stone will be
laid by Bishop Jackson Kemper with the usual services. The address will be delivered by the Rev. L.
A. Kemper of the Nashotah faculty.
The
stone was prepared by Davidson & Green, of this city, and is fourteen
inches square. The cavity is eight
inches square by four deep. The stone
has this inscription: on side is a Latin
Cross resting on the monogram I. H. S.
On another side, “St. Paul’s Church, Sept. 22, 1859.”
The
deposits in the stone are as follows;
1st. A copy of the Holy Bible.
2d. A copy of the Book of Common Prayer.
3d. A copy of the Journal of the last Convention
of this Diocese.
4th. A copy of the Church Journal and of the
Gospel Messenger.
5th. A copy of the Watertown Democrat, containing
this article, and also copies of the two German papers, vis, The Weltburger and
the Volks Zeitung.
The new church will be
built of brick, from the yard of D. S. Chadwick
of this city. It will be in the modern
Gothic style of architecture and when finished will be one of the most chaste
and beautiful structures in the state.
The whole length of the building, including recess chancel, will be
seventy-eight feet; length of the nave sixty feet; width of nave including
buttresses, thirty-eight feet. In
addition to the main entrance on Second Street, there will be a south entrance
through the tower, which projects eight feet from the main wall. The roof will be finished partly open. All the windows, which will be mullioned,
will be of stained glass. The choir will
be in the chancel. The building will be
warmed by a furnace and lighted by gas.
It will provide sitting for about four hundred people.
The
architect is James Douglas of Milwaukee.
The builders are Samuel Vaux and William Honey of this city. The masons are John and James Ford of this
city.
It
is to be completed by next July and will cost, when finished, including lot,
about four thousand dollars.
It
may be interesting to add a brief history of the parish.
The
first service was held by Rev. Melancthon Hoyt in June, 1845. The parish was organized in 1847, and duly
incorporated February 13th, 1849.
The
following named persons were the first elected Wardens and Vestrymen:
Wardens—William
Grange and Samuel Sutton.
Vestrymen—Laurence J. Fibert,
William M. Grange, Hobert Clifford, Daniel Jones, D. J. Pulling, W. H. Besley
and James Norris.
The corner stone of the
present church edifice on Third Street was laid by Bishop Kemper on the 21st of
May, 1849. The church was consecrated by
Bishop Kemper on the 7th of November, 1849.
The
Rev. Mr. Hoyt continued in charge of the parish until 1854. The church numbered then about thirty
communicants.
The
Rev. C. C. Edmonds was called to the rectorship of the church on the 13th of
August, 1854, and continued in charge one year.
Under his ministry nine persons were baptized and four confirmed.
The
Rev. L. W. Russ was called to the rectorship of the parish on the 23rd of
March, 1856. The parish then for the
first time became self-supporting.
During
the rectorship of Rev. Mr. Russ he has baptized seventy two persons, adults,
eighteen, infants fifty four. Thirty
seven persons have been confirmed. The
present number of communicants is seventy.
During this time the parish has contributed for parochial objects,
including the subscriptions for the new church, the amount of $7,204.74. And during the same period, but three years
and a half, the parish has contributed for various benevolent objects, extra
parochial, the sum total of $527.58. It
is believed that few parishes in the country, of the age and size of this, can
show a fairer record. To God be the
Praise.
The
following persons are the present officers of the church:
Rector—Rev.
L. W. Russ.
Wardens—Daniel Jones and Abraham Medbury [Medberry], Jr.
Vestryman—Albert
L. Pritchard, W. H. Clark, Theodore Prentiss, R. S.
Little, Peter V. Brown, H. B. Gallup, and
W. B. Folds.
It
may be proper to add that the seats in this church will be free to all. Persons selecting seats, however, will be
allowed to occupy them as long as they may attend the services of the church.
It
should be stated that the new building will be paid for when completed. No debt will be incurred to hereafter
embarrass the operations and cripple the energies of the church. No obligations of the past or enterprise of
the present will be allowed to cast a shadow over the fair prospects of the
promising future.
The
church established here fourteen year ago has steadily grown with the growth of
the city, within whose limits it has been planted, until it has become
necessary to enlarge the dimensions of its consecrated place of worship, so
that all who desire can assemble there and engage in acts of devotion. The welcome day which this happy and
encouraging state of things imposed on its members has been cheerfully and
gladly met and promptly discharged, and under the blessings and smile of God,
when the day shall again arrive, as it must, in which it will once more be
necessary to
build a yet more fit and beautiful Temple of Praise to the Most High, may our
successors find something in the example now set before them worthy of
remembrance and imitation. May the
Savior’s command, “Go and do likewise,” be mingled with soft whisperings of the
spirit’s voice, calling all to works of charity, beneficence, gratitude and
reverential thankfulness to Him from whom alone flows every good and perfect
gift. WD
1860
04 26 Rev. L. W. Russ, rector of St. Paul’s church, this city, has
received and accepted a call to the Rectorship of St. John’s church, Lafayette,
Indiana. He closes his labors with his
people here on Sunday next. WD
05 03 Pastor Rev. L. W. Russ departure
WD
08 02 St. Paul's
church—The Rev. William Green, late Rector of Christ church, Green Bay, has consented
to become the Pastor of St. Paul's church of this city. Mr. Green is a clergyman of such wide
experience, high order of talents, and fine social qualities, as would secure
him a cordial welcome anywhere. There is
no reason to doubt that his services here will be as useful as they will be
well directed and zealous. We hazard
nothing in saying that he will satisfactorily fill the vacancy created by the
departure of Rev. L. W. Russ, and fully meet the expectations that have been
based on his unblemished purity of character, learning, devotion and
eloquence. We wish him abundant success
in his efforts in this community. WD
08 16 The Green
Bay Advocate pays the following parting tribute of respect to the clergyman who
is about to become Rector of St. Paul’s church of this city: “Rev. William Green, who has for several
years held the pastorate of Christ (Episcopal) church in this place, has
resigned his trust and preached his farewell sermon on Sunday. He goes to Watertown to take charge of a
church there. Our Watertown neighbors
are fortunate in their acquisition. Mr.
Green took charge of the parish here when it was much divided by dissention and
in anything but a prosperous condition.
During his administration all these difficulties have been healed and
the church was never more flourishing than now.
We wish him good fortune wherever he is.”
Mr. Green will enter
upon his pastoral duties, in this city, next Sabbath and preach in the new
Episcopal Church, on Second Street, that day.
WD
08 16 St. Paul’s
church of this city, will open [its new edifice] next Sunday for the first
time, under the charge of the recently elected Rector, Rev. William Green. This church, now completed, has been built
during one of the severest financial reverses ever known in the west, and
unlike most western projects, has been carried through without embarrassment
and is now free from indebtedness of any kind.
It is both an ornament
to the city and a credit to the taste and enterprise of the congregation. It is built of our beautiful cream colored
brick, in modern Gothic style of architecture and is capable of commodiously
seating some four hundred persons. The
windows are of stained glass, finely conceived and skillfully executed,
tingling with a soft and mellow radiance the brilliancy of the light within.
The pews are without
doors and FREE to all who desire to occupy them. To those who wish to attend regularly and
permanently, a portion of the seats will be rented, as will be observed by a
notice in this paper. Another feature,
which we like, is the setting apart of a pew for each
of our principal hotels, where strangers preferring to attend Divine service
will always find themselves cordially welcome.
This is as it should be, though new in the West.
There is something
beautiful and satisfactory in the reflection, that go where you will, among all
nations, kindred and tongues, in any part of the habitable globe where the
Protestant Episcopal Church is known, and you hear the same liturgy, the same
lessons, and the same prayers which have been used over eighteen hundred
years. That church knows no North, no
South, no East, nor no West, but is everywhere alike. We admire these features of it; and to those
educated in and professing this faith, it has peculiar attractions. The church is pleasantly and conveniently
located and so accessible that none need stay away. And for those who have no belief or object
beyond temporary gratification there is no place more suitable or handy than
this church.
The new Rector comes
among us with the highest recommendations and under the most flattering
prospects.
The church is to be
consecrated in a few weeks, when we are desired to say the public are ALL
invited to attend. Due notice will be
given of the time. WD
08 16 Pews in
St. Paul’s church can now be selected and persons and families desiring seats
can secure them by calling on the undersigned, who is fully authorized to allot
and rent the same. No other rule will be
adopted, than “first come first served.”
Geo. L. Field, Secretary WD
09 28 CHURCH CONSECRATION
St. Paul's church will
be consecrated by the bishop of this diocese, on Thursday, October 4th, at ten
and one-half o’clock a.m. The public are
respectfully invited to attend. WR
1861
01 25 LADIES FESTIVAL. We understand that the ladies connected with
St. Paul’s church propose to give a festival some time
next week, the proceeds of which are to be applied towards liquidating the
indebtedness incurred by the society in the building of their House of Worship
and the various improvements connected with it.
We fail to remember, it is so long ago, when the ladies of this church
have solicited any aid of this kind at the hands of the public and we trust
that upon the present occasion they will meet with a hearty and substantial
response to their call. They are
certainly entitled to a liberal patronage and we shall be greatly mistaken if
the same is not freely extended to them.
The entertainment will be of such a character that none who attend will
have any cause to regret it. The time
and place for it have not yet been fixed upon, but it will be announced in due
time. WR
06 20 ANNUAL CONVENTION OF
THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH - The Fifteenth Annual Convention of the Episcopal
Church of the Diocese of Wisconsin met on Thursday, June 11th, at St. Paul’s
church, Watertown, one of the most church-like edifices in the Diocese . . . A
sermon was preached by the Rev. J. B. Pradt, from the
text: “Go ye into all the nations and preach the gospel to every
creature.” It was one of the most
earnest and effective missionary sermons we ever heard. At the close of the sermon the Bishop
confirmed eighteen persons and addressed the candidates in his usual
affectionate and impressive manner. This
closed the exercises of the first day . . .
WD
1864
08 11 Rev. L. W. RUSS,
formerly pastor of St. Paul’s church of this city, but now of Lafayette, Ind.,
arrived in town last week on a visit to his many friends here among all
classes. Mr. Russ has received the
cordial and hearty welcome which the grateful remembrance of his zeal and
earnestness in former years of faithful and successful service so well
merited. In the best sense of the word,
he is a popular clergyman – everywhere winning and exercising the influence
which follows talent, eloquence and devotion to the sacred cause in which it is
alike his duty and pleasure to labor. WD
08 25 Rev. WILLIAM GREEN,
for the past four years pastor of St. Paul’s Episcopal church in this city, has
resigned and on the 14th delivered his farewell sermon. It is enough to be able to say of any
minister of the Gospel that he has made his sacred mission his only business
and by his fidelity and earnestness won the respect and confidence not only of
the members of his charge, but of people among whom he has lived, and this can
be said of Mr. Green without any more flatter than the utterance of the truth
will give. The single object of all his
unwearied efforts here has been to promote the prosperity of his congregation
and he leaves it more numerous and flourishing than he found it, which is the
best evidence that his labors have been well directed and crowned with the
blessings of the Divine Master. A
gentleman of learning, culture, talents and fine social qualities, with a
character not only blameless but without reproach, he is a clergyman whose
services it will be good fortune for any church to secure, and we are sure he
will carry away with him the best wishes of the congregation and community he
is about to leave, after years devoted to the faithful discharge of his
duty. WD
1865
10 26 EPISCOPAL CONVENTION
An Episcopal
Convocation of the Bishop and the other clergy of this diocese will meet in St.
Paul’s Church in this city at 7 o’clock p.m. on the 7th of November next. WD
1875
07 07 Some evil disposed persons made themselves quite officious in
disturbing the services at St. Paul's Episcopal church Sunday evening by firing
off firecrackers in front of the windows and doors. Those who engage in such
acts of maliciousness are entitled to no more respect or consideration than the
worm that crawls the earth. WR
11 24 Thanksgiving service
1876
08 23 The Sunday school scholars, teachers and parishioners of St.
Paul's will hold a picnic in Richard's Grove, Wednesday of next week, August
30th. The children and others wishing to
attend, will meet at the church at ten o'clock a.m. and proceed to the
grove. With a fine day a pleasant time
may be expected. WR
1880
10 06 ST. PAUL’S CHURCH UPGRADED
The
first services in St. Paul’s church since the completion of the work of decorating
and improving the interior were held last Sunday before large congregations.
In
connection with its permanent embellishments with pencil and brush the church
was decorated with fruit, grains and flowers in commemoration of the Harvest
Home which was observed along with the reopening services.
The
church has undergone a thorough repair without and within. The interior presents one beautiful harmony
of design and color planned and executed by P. M. Almini
of Chicago. Such a combination of rich
and delicate colors is rarely seen. The
painting is all done in flat color which give it all a subdued and soft
appearance making it pleasing for the eye to rest upon. The pillars and brackets which are of wood
are relieved by light lines and the drops in the center of each panel are
gilded, while along the running timbers a neat arrangement of the trefoil leaf
runs the whole length of the nave on each side.
Over the
chancel arch is the sentence, “The Lord is in His Holy Temple” with an ivy vine
running round above the upper line of the ground work of the text. The east end of the chancel has been arranged
so as to represent a handsome reredos [a decoration behind the altar in a
church] with Alpha and Omega at each end of the altar panel and the text “I am
the Bread of Life” running between them.
The walls of the chancel are dark rich colors finished and divided into
panels. To the furniture of the chancel
has been added a pair of elegant chairs.
In the midst of all
these improvements the Sunday school has not been forgotten, eighty new volumes
having been added to the library and in every department of parish work there
are signs of renewed life and activity.
The Watertown News
1882
10 18 DEATH
OF CHARLOTTE A. CLARK, wife
of William H. Clark, cashier of the Bank of Watertown WR
08 18 NEW
PARSONAGE
Ground has been broken for the erection
of the new parsonage building of St. Paul’s church on Second Street. The building will be brick veneered, of
gothic architecture and to cost $2,050.
It will be ready for occupancy December 1. L. Kapet is the contractor. WR
Additional
Information:
Built in 1885 as St. Paul's Episcopal Church Rectory, this
cream brick house exhibits the multiple steep gable roofs, gable ornaments and
hood molds over the windows that are associated with the Gothic revival style.
Gabled wall dormers and a rectangular south bay window further characterize
this simplified Gothic Revival building.
Part of the St. Paul's Episcopal church complex nominated to the
National Register in 1979, St. Paul's Rectory is significant
under Criterion C as one of the very few examples of Gothic Revival residential
architecture remaining in the city.
Bibliographic References: (A) National Register Nomination, St. Paul's
Episcopal Church, Files, Preservation Division, State Historical Society of
Wisconsin.
1888
c.1889
1890
A BELL TOWER ADDED IN 1890
11 12 NEW TOWER AND SPIRE
St. Paul's Episcopal church will be graced
with a handsome spire, a memorial from Daniel Jones, senior warden of the
parish, to his wife, Elizabeth Harger Jones.
The spire will be 87 feet and 10 inches in height and will contain a
fine bell of 600 pounds weight, from the Meneely Bell Company of Troy,
N.Y. John E. Dornfeld is the architect and
contractor.
It Is expected to have the spire completed and the bell mounted by next
Christmas day. WR
11 26 NEW TOWER AND SPIRE PROGRESSING
The
new tower and spire of St. Paul’s Episcopal church is progressing rapidly and
already shows something of the fitness and beauty which will mark the
improvement when completed.
Unfortunately, the noble finish which it will give to the southwest
angle of the church, already reveals the great want of a correspondingly
elegant porch on the west front. That
will look more naked and unfinished than before, besides being, as it is, cold,
inconvenient and comparatively useless.
The beauty of the one improvement may, however, lead to a generous
supplying of needed utility of the other.
WR
11 26 WALNUT RETABLE FOR THE ALTAR
[same
date] St.
Paul's Episcopal church has recently been provided by an unknown donor with a
new and elegant black walnut retable for the altar, from the establishment of
Foulke & Howard, Chicago. It is in
three sections: the central one, the full height, for the support of a cross,
the other two, side sections, being provided with two gradines for the use of
the other ornaments of the altar. The
three middle panels in the front are enriched by the thrice "holy" in
raised letters, gilt; the end panels bearing the maltese cross, in
corresponding workmanship. WR
11 26 CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR SALE
[same date] The ladies of St. Paul’s
parish guild have placed a case of fancy articles suitable for Christmas gifts
for sale in the window of Mrs. W. N. Hawkins' fruit and confectionery store,
near the west end of the Main Street bridge.
Orders for such work filled by leaving word with Mrs. Hawkins. WR
12 31
& NEW
TOWER DEDICATED ON CHRISTMAS EVE
01 02 1891
On Christmas eve the new tower and spire of St. Paul’s
Protestant Episcopal church in this city was completed and the new bell placed
in it and used the first time. . . . The
tower, spire and bell are a gift to the church by Col. Daniel Jones as a memorial of his departed
wife, who from the foundation of this parish was his faithful helpmate and
co-laborer in every labor to build up and develop the church in Watertown, so
that now she "being dead yet speaketh." In this work Col. Jones has given another
illustration of how to utilize memorial efforts to the benefit of the
community, and the community in general, as well as the church, appreciates the
deed. WR
The tower up to the bell is of Watertown brick, the belfry is of
massive timbers, and has ample room for a full peal of bells. The spire is very neat and simple, its
graceful outlines calling for no fretted ornamentation whatever, its apex is
surmounted by a well-proportioned gilded cross.
The height from the ground to the top of the cross is 87 feet 10
Inches. The design and execution of the
work has been done by Dornfeld, architect and builder, and is in perfect
keeping with the architecture of the rest of church building, chapel and
rectory, the whole forming a beautiful pile of ecclesiastical structures, an
ornament to the city and a credit to all concerned as well as a cherished mecca
of the church people of Watertown.
The bell is from the Meneely foundry of Troy, N.Y., and weighs 610
pounds. the following inscription is cast on it:
ST. PAUL’S CHURCH, WATERTOWN, WIS. To the glory of
God, and in memory of ELIZABETH HARGER JONES, who was born July 21, 1818, and
died March 11, 1890. This bell and tower
in which it hangs were erected by her husband, Daniel Jones, A.D. 1890, for
many years Senior Warden of this church.
"I CALL ALL" WG
1891
03 27 RITE OF CONFIRMATION
Right Rev. C.F. Knight, bishop of
Milwaukee, will administer the rite of confirmation next Tuesday evening in St.
Paul's Episcopal church at 7:30 o'clock.
A misunderstanding occurred in the appointment made for last Tuesday
evening. WG
1894
12 26 “THE
DESTINY OF THE JEW”
The
Rev. Dr. Johnson preached a strong and interesting sermon Sunday evening at St.
Paul’s church on "The Destiny of the Jew." He recalled the ancient prophecy of this
wonderful nation being scattered to the four corners of the earth and how truly
it has been fulfilled and that the signs of the times indicated that the
predictions concerning the Jews being again gathered in their original domain,
Palestine, would also be realized. WR
1898
04 13 EASTER SERVICE
St. Paul's Episcopal
church has perhaps never enjoyed more beautiful services than were those of
last Sunday. Beginning with early
communion at 6 a.m., there were very large congregations present at each
service. The edifice was made
particularly pretty and attractive with a profusion of potted plants and
flowers, the chancel and choir being the chief centers of decoration, and
withal the environments and conditions were such that betoken the glads of
Easter-tide... WR
12 21 SUCCESSFUL BIZARRE
Never before has the
Woman's Guild of St. Paul’s church given a more successful bizarre than the one
held in conjunction with St. Margaret's guild last Thursday evening in the Concordia Opera House. And perhaps never before has an affair of
like nature here been deserving of such liberal patronage . . . The menu, while
it lasted, was an excellent one, but many patrons where compelled without
having their inner appetites satisfied, as the demand was greater than the
supply. The ladies regret that there was
such an unpreparedness for the lunch and promise better results in the
future. The sales in all departments
were very extensive and hardly an article remained over. Nearly $200 was the amount of the gross
proceeds. WR
1899
03 15 WOMAN'S GUILD / Old
Maids' Convention
The Old Maids'
convention is advertised to meet in Watertown after Easter. They must have heard of the spring sale of
shirt waists, aprons, dressing sacks and sun — bonnets, to be held by the
Woman's Guild of St. Paul's Parish at that time. We know the peculiarities of
old maids. They are hard to suit and
hard to fit; but at this time these difficulties and all others will be
overcome. They will be well repaid for
waiting and attending our sale. We
extend a cordial invitation to the "Old Maids" of this convention,
and also to the young maids and matrons of Watertown. – Woman's Guild. WR
1900
01 05 PIPE
ORGAN FREEZES UP
The
congregation of St. Paul’s Episcopal church was treated to a rather unseemly
spectacle at the morning service Sunday.
The cold weather of last week caused the freezing up of the connections
to the water motor, which furnishes power for the pipe organ, and this
inconvenience had to be obviated by the employment of hand power. Things ran along smoothly for a while, but in
the midst of the rendition of the ”Te Deum” the wind supplying apparatus of the
organ broke, and there was a most unpleasant sound of rattling parts and
shattered connections . The choir was
compelled to cease singing and to be seated, and then the rector, nothing
daunted, requested that some of the male portion of the congregation to go to
the chapel and convey the reed organ from there to the church, which was done
with becoming celerity and ceremony. The
services were then proceeded with, but it was plain to be seen that the
incident, exasperating as it was, had nevertheless provoked no little amusement
in an appropriate place. WR
1903
09 19 SCHEMPF-POOLER
WEDDING
Edward
L. Schempf and Miss Pauline Grace Pooler
1904
12 16 CHRISTMAS
BAZAAR
The
bazaar by the ladies of St. Paul's Episcopal church which opened at the rectory
last Tuesday and closes this (Thursday) evening is being well patronized, as it
deserves to be. The rooms are nicely
arranged and decorated in the rectory for the occasion - one being assigned for
the fine luncheon that is served afternoons and evenings, one to the grocery
and notions department, and one to fancy work and the candy stand. The ladies have on sale a fine line of
articles suitable for Christmas presents, as well as articles that are useful
in everyday housekeeping. They have still a number left and the public is
cordially invited to call and see them.
The bazaar (this Wednesday) evening promises to be especially interesting.
1905
10 18 ARCHDEACON
WEBBER
Those
who failed to hear Archdeacon Webber Sunday afternoon at St. Paul’s church
missed a rare intellectual and oratorical treat. As the address was to be for men exclusively,
the Archdeacon took for his subject; “Manhood” and for an hour and a half held
his audience spell-bound by his eloquence and the presentation of what makes
and that which destroys true manhood. He
appealed to men to be men in the fullest and this acceptation of the term take
for their standard the Christ man, which would make them good husbands, fathers
and citizens, worthy of the grand liberty of a perfect manhood, of free men,
not slaves to passion, appetites and diminishing inclinations. WR
1908
10 23 The Harvest Home Supper held at Masonic
Hall. WG
1909
02 19 SACRED CANTATA
The choir
of St. Paul's Episcopal Church is actively engaged in rehearsing
Stainer's sacred cantata, "The Daughter of Jairus," under the
direction of Edward L. Schempf, to be sung Friday evening, February 19, in St.
Paul's Church. Some of the best musical talent of Watertown are
assisting in this work and it undoubtedly will be one of the musical events of
the season. Mrs. William Sproesser will
sing the leading soprano parts; Edward L. Schempf,
tenor; William Sproesser, baritone. The augmented choir will be
accompanied by the organ, with Mrs. Elizabeth Green as organist, and a small
orchestra, including a cellist from Milwaukee who has been specially engaged
for this occasion. The fact that the cantata is the work of the
celebrated musical writer, Stainer, is sufficient evidence as to its
worth. It abounds with beautiful solos, duets and
choruses. A treat is in store for all lovers of music who take
advantage of this opportunity. The effect of the combined chorus,
organ and orchestra is truly grand and inspiring. This cantata was
sung by St. Paul's choir a number of years ago and the concert proved a
splendid musical event. The price of admission has been fixed at
thirty-five cents. Tickets may be obtained from members of the choir
and at Eberle's and Schempf's drug stores.
WG
09 24 50TH ANNIVERSARY
A beautiful and impressive service
was held on Sunday, September 19, at St. Paul’s Episcopal church, it being the
fiftieth anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone. The Rt. Rev. W. W. Webb, D. D., bishop of the
diocese, was present, and delivered the memorial sermon at the morning service;
Canon H. B. St. George of Nashotah House gave a historical sermon in the
evening.
The church was recently
beautified by a number of memorial windows, which add greatly to the appearance
of the edifice. On Sunday there was a
profusion of flowers in every available spot until the interior was a veritable
bower [a shaded, leafy recess]. The
customary choir was augmented by the presence of Mr. and Mrs. William
Sproesser, Mr. and Mrs. Max Rohr, Mr. Edward L. Schempf, Mr. C. D. Wiggenhorn,
Miss Elsa Wiggenhorn and Miss Minna Sproesser, and some excellent music
rendered.
There
were present at the morning service quite a number of former members of the
parish who returned to be present at this service, among them were Mr. and Mrs.
George Fields and daughter, Mrs. Barnes of Ripon, Mrs. A. J. Earling, Mr. and
Mrs. Lawrence Fitch, Mr. J. J. Moulding of Chicago, Mrs. H. S. Howell, Miss
Howell, Mr. and Mrs. Smith of Milwaukee, Miss Grace P. Jones, Mr. and Mrs.
Harry Baum and daughter of Oconomowoc.
Fifty
years in anticipation seems a long, long waiting—in retrospect it is not so
endless. There are a few who have seen
the parish grow from a very small beginning to its present size, not large now,
but greater, more prosperous than when the people worshiped in the modest
little brown wooden church on Third Street.
When the present structure was completed and ready for occupancy it
seemed palatial by contrast.
The cornerstone was laid
on September 22, 1859, and it was a year later when the church was
completed. It seemed very fitting that
Mr. and Mrs. Field should be present at this recent memorial service, as it was
an anniversary for them as well, their wedding being the first service held in
the church. WG
More on 50th anniversary
St. Paul’s Church Golden Jubilee
Watertown
Gazette, 09 24 1909
On
Tuesday, Sept. 21, 1909, St. Paul’s Episcopal church of this city was 50 years
old and in honor of the event the golden jubilee religious services were held
at the church last Sunday, large congregations being present at all the
services. Rt. Rev. W. W. Webb, D. D.,
bishop of the Milwaukee diocese, was present and delivered an eloquent memorial
sermon at the 10:30 a.m. service. Rev.
H. B. St. George, professor at the Nashotah seminary, delivered the historical
address at the evening service at 7:30 o’clock.
CHURCH HISTORY
The first
Episcopal church in Watertown was built in 1847. Prior to that time the Rev. Melancthon Hoyt
of Fox Lake used to visit Watertown in the capacity of a missionary, walking
the entire distance, almost thirty miles, but in 1847 an organization was
effected with Lawrence J. Fribert and William M. Grange as wardens and Daniel
Jones, James A. Norris, Robert Clifford, David J. Pulling and H. Besley as
vestrymen.
The
first services were held by Mr. Hoyt in schoolhouses and later in a building
that was formerly a bowling alley and on the present site of John W. Cole’s
block in Second Street. The first church
was built in 1847 in Third Street at a cost of $600, most of the material and
labor being contributed. The present
church edifice was built in 1859 at the corner of Second and Spring streets at
a cost of about $6000, but many improvements have been made since that
period. The cornerstone was laid on
September 22, 1859, and the golden jubilee was celebrated Sunday, the Sunday
before the anniversary.
The
rectors since the establishment of the church are:
Rev.
Melancthon Hoyt, 1845 to 1854
Rev.
Charles Edward, 1854 to 1855
Rev.
Lorin W. Russ, 1856 to 1860
Rev.
William Green, 1860 to 1865
Rev.
William Dafter, 1865 to 1870
Rev.
F. W. Boyd, 1871 to 1879
Rev.
Harry Thompson, 1879 to 1881
Rev.
Horatio Gates, 1881 to 1883
Rev.
David A. Sanford, 1883 to 1885
Rev.
J. B. Finn, 1886 to 1889
Rev.
Frederick S. Jewell, 1889 to 1894
Rev.
Myron A. Johnson, 1894 to 1896
Rev.
H. S. Foster, 1896 to 1899
Rev.
Thomas C. Eglin, 1899 to 1904
Rev.
John Barrett, 1905 to 1907
Rev.
R. M. Laurenson, 1908 –
The
present wardens are Messrs. H. T. Eberle, Dr. F. C. Moulding
Vestrymen: Messrs. John Robinson, Robert Dent, Gustav
Buchheit, George J. Nichols, Edward L. Schempf, Richard E. Krueger, Herman H.
Beers, Constance D. Wiggenhorn.
Organist,
Mrs. Elizabeth Green.
THE
PROGRAM
The program
was a most excellent one and included musical selections by the church choirs,
Mrs. Elizabeth Green being the organ accompanist. Following is the program at these services:
Holy
Communion, 7:30 a.m.
MEMORIAL SERVICE, 10:30 a.m.
Evening
Prayer
Processional
Hymn “Onward Christian Soldiers”
Kyrie
Eleison Gounod
Gloria Tibi Gounod
Gratias
Tibi Gounod
Hymn “For All Thy Saints”
Sermon Bishop Webb
Anthem “O Praise the Lord of Heaven”
Offertory Doxology
Sursum
Corda Gounod
Sanctus Gounod
Benedictus Gounod
Angus Dei Gounod
Gloria in
Excelsis Gounod
Nunc
Dimittis
Hymn “Through the Night of Doubt and
Sorrow”
HISTORICAL SERVICE, 7:30 p.m.
Holy
Communion
Processional
Hymn “We Love Thy Place, O God”
Magnificat J. C. Marks
Nunc Dimittis J. C. Marks
Hymn “Christ is Made a Sure
Foundation”
Sermon The Rev. H. B. St. George
Anthem “The Lord Reigneth,” Frey
Offertory Doxology
Hymn “Crown Him With Many Crowns”
Among those from out of town at
the services were . . .
1910
05 06 MARY E. BOYD,
wife of former rector Rev. W. F. Boyd
After a long illness, Mrs. Mary E. Boyd, aged
87 years, and wife of the late Rev. W. F. Boyd, former rector of St. Mathias Episcopal
church in Waukesha, died there Thursday evening.
The above notice was clipped from the Milwaukee Sentinel on April 19. Mrs. Boyd had lived in Waukesha thirty-five
years. Before going there the family
resided in Watertown several years, Dr. Boyd being rector of St. Paul’s
Episcopal church [Rev. F. W. Boyd, 1871 to 1879]. Memory carries us back to the winter of
1873-74 which was extremely cold with great quantities of snow. Being a native of Mississippi Mrs. Boyd felt
the cold severely, but there was always a warm welcome and cheery smile, with
true southern hospitality to all who came to her home. WG
06 10 WOMAN'S GUILD LAWN PARTY AT CHADWICK HOME
The
afternoon of Wednesday, June 8, the Woman's Guild of St. Paul's Episcopal church met at the Chadwick home, 519 West
Street. It was purely a
social gathering, and as Wednesday proved to be a perfect June day, filled with
warmth and brightness and beauty—every one preferred to be on the porch or the
lawn, rather than in the house where we have been so long imprisoned on account
of cold, stormy weather. Croquet
was indulged in by some, while others spent the time in conversation.
At five
o'clock a delicious luncheon was served upon the lawn on small tables arranged
in a semi-circle with one at the opening of the circle, at which was seated the
Rev. and Mrs. R. M. Laurenson,
Mrs. Gallup and Miss Harger. This meeting was in the nature of a
farewell to the president of the guild, Miss Harger,
who expects to sail for Europe the eighteenth of June to be away for three
months, possibly a longer time. When
all were seated Mr. Laurenson, in
the name of the guild, wished Miss Harger a safe voyage, a pleasant trip while
abroad and then we will certainly give her a glad welcome home.
c.1910
Uncertain dates
1912
At a meeting of the
vestry of St. Paul's Episcopal church held in the rectory Friday evening it was
formally decided that a new pipe organ shall be purchased for the church. A committee has been investigating the matter
for some time and reported progress but a final decision as to what make of
organ shall be selected had not as yet been made. The new organ will be of Tabular-pneumatic
action with electric blower and independent two-manual console, so placed that
the organist will face the choir. The
console will have concave radiating pedals and all the latest and most improved
couplers and accessories of the most modern type of organ. It will have seventeen speaking stops
arranged as follows: In the great organ (lower keys) open diapason viola
d'gamba, dulciana, melodia, octave, fifteenth, twelfth. In the swell organ, bourdon, stopped
diapason, vox celeste, salicional, aeoline, rohrfloete, oboe. In the pedal organ, bourdon lieblich,
gedeckt, violin cello. There will also
be a series of adjustable combination pistons, pedal control, etc. Nothing will be omitted that the science of
organ building can produce to make this a perfect instrument.
The old organ will be
removed shortly after Easter and it is hoped that the new instrument will be in
place in the course of a few months.
Funds are now in hand to cover the entire expense of this very valuable
improvement to the church.
The vestry also voted
to accept a beautiful oak Litany desk, the gift of St. Mary's guild; and extend
a vote of thanks to the girls and those who helped them. This guild will in the future be merged with
the Girls Friendly, which is to be organized shortly after Easter. WG
1914
02 19 SACRED CANTATA REBEKAH
The choir of St. Paul’s
is rehearsing Barnaby’s sacred cantata “Rebekah” to be given at St. Paul’s
Episcopal Church on Tuesday evening, February 24, with organ and orchestra,
with the assistance of some of the leading singers in the city. The soloists will be Mrs. William Sproesser,
soprano, Mr. William Sproesser, baritone, and Mr. Edward Schempf, tenor. The cantata is very beautiful and a most
affective rendition is promised. WG
02 26 A FINE CONCERT
St. Paul’s Episcopal
church was crowded to the doors with people last Tuesday evening to enjoy the
sacred concert given by local talent.
The Cantata “Rebekah” was given in a very creditable manner. Miss Elizabeth Green officiated at the pipe
organ in a most artistic manner. This
beautiful sacred vocal music was sung in a manner that would do credit to
professionals. It was under the able
direction of Edward L. Schempf, and the leading parts were taken by William
Sproesser as Eliezer, and Mrs. William Sproesser as Rebekah. The chorus parts showed excellent
training. Mrs. Carl R. Feld sang “How
Long Wilt Thou Forget Me, O Lord,” and Mr. Frank Bramer gave a beautiful violin
solo. The entire program was decidedly
well given and a better pleased audience was never assembled in Watertown. WG
c.1925
CHRISTMAS
08 10 THE FIRST COMMANDMENT
Sponsored by Woman’s Guild of St.
Paul’s, Riverside Park
Cast of more than 70 characters:
Rev. Henry Friedman, L. M. Mears, Mrs. Henry Friedman, Christine Grady,
Donald Schmutzler, Rev. Don M. Gury, P. D. Joseph, George Dieter, Henry Amann,
Arthur Kehl, Ray Hoppe, Donald Gottschalk , Robert Coon , James Anderson ,
Edward Thies, Kenneth Nowack, Jack King, Dr. J. R. Casanova, Gerald Kehr, Max
Gaebler, John Moore, Dr. Arnold Nenahlo , Mrs. J. M. Wright, Paul Jaedecke, Max
Rohr. Jr., Louise Kusel, Evelyn Jones, Marcus Day, Charles Jones , Paul
Abelmann , Jim Moore, Dr. Donald Craine, Erwin Keepman, Mrs. E. L. Grady, Fred
Alt, Orville Weseman, John Bennes, Harold Draeger, Mrs. Charles Kading, Mrs. A.
M. Ellington, Helen Prentiss, Harry Thies, Louis Becker, Harold Hartwig, B. V.
Krueger, Winston Krueger, William Rhoda, Jack King., Kenneth Nowack, Jack King,
Mrs. P. D. Joseph, Mrs. Edwin Faber, Mrs. L. H. Kusel, Mrs. Fred Alt, Mrs. F.
S. Brinkman, Mrs. L. W. Hutson, Miss Ada Rick, Miss Helen Gruetzmacher, Mrs. J.
Platos, Mrs. Frank Persson, Miss Zayda Grube , Mrs. Alexander Platz , Mrs.
Frank Atkins , Miss Eugenia Nowack, Arthur Krause , Roscoe Conklin , George
Richards , Edward Schoechert , Walter Schlueter, George Dieter , B. V. Krueger
, Harold Hartwig , Louis Becker.
1956
11 27 CADY
MEMORIAL CHAPEL DEDICATION
A
service of dedication and blessing was held Sunday afternoon at the Cady Memorial Chapel of St. Paul's Episcopal
church. For several years, the work of
restoration of the chapel has been underway.
However, the project gained impetus this past year when the chapel's
original marble altar was returned and installed. Since that time a new communion rail has been
installed and the chapel has been carpeted.
The installation of the pews makes the chapel a self-contained unit for
worship accommodating 56 people. It is
used for daily services and the early mass on Sunday as well as for church school.
1957
12 26 CELLINI
CHALICE
A 400-year-old
chalice, the work of Benvenuto Cellini, was
used at St. Paul's Episcopal church at the midnight Christmas mass and at the
Christmas Day mass at 9 a.m. The chalice
was given in legacy to the rector of the church, the Rev. Fr. William E.
Krueger, by the Rt. Rev. Benjamin F. P. Ivins, one-time bishop of
Milwaukee. The chalice is of hand
wrought silver which forms the base, hammered silver leaf on the outside of the
cup with hammered gold leaf forming the interior of the cup. When not in use at the church here it is kept
in the vault at the Episcopal Cathedral of All Saints in Milwaukee.
1959
01 09 GROUNDBREAKING
FOR ADDITION, classrooms, a boiler room and storage area
Groundbreaking
ceremonies were held yesterday at St.
Paul's Episcopal church for an
addition which will house a church school classroom area of nine class rooms, a
boiler room and storage area at a cost of between $30,000 and $35,000. The classroom area will be modern and
up to date for the expanding church school of the parish. The present church building is 100
years old. Among those
present when the ground was broken were Joseph Wimmer, chairman of the building
committee, Gene Chase, senior warden, James Bloor, junior warden and the Rev.
Fr. William E. Krueger, rector of St. Paul's.
12 15 ANNUAL “EVERY-MEMBER
CANVASS”
Members
of St. Paul's Episcopal parish will be called upon Sunday afternoon for
the annual “every-member canvass.” Canvass
committee chairman is Gene Chase; Joseph Wimmer is chairman for special gifts; while
Gordon Scott will serve as initial gifts chairman. Others participating in the canvass
will be: Lester Zick, Robert Stupka, Don Gottschalk, Al Maas Jr.,
James Bloor, Robert Bauch, Robert
Miller, Roger Marg, Dr. Paul
Clark, Beatty Burke, Robert Steinbach, Harris Grabow,
Gordon Humphrey, Harold Schultz, Paul Loeffler,
Roland Gibson and Arthur Archie. Frank
Adams is serving as recorder. WDT
1965
06 29 Rev.
Fr. M. FRED HIMMERICH
St. Paul
Episcopal church today announced it has a new rector in residence. He is the Rev. Fr. M. Fred Himmerich, a
native of South Dakota, where he grew to manhood. Father Himmerich will conduct services at the
church on Sunday and has announced the schedule of services as 7:30, 9:15 and 11
a.m. He holds a B.A. degree from
Macalester College, St. Paul, Minn., and the M.A. degree from the University of
Minnesota. He studied at the seminary,
Nashotah House, and has served as curate of St. Paul’s church, Beloit. WDT
1970
06 23 FINNS
LIVING HERE
Paula Kinna and
Matti Ripatti, both from Finland, are presently living in Watertown with Mr.
and Mrs. Charles Kerr, 1006 Wilbur Street.
Matti is employed as a horticulturist with McKay Nursery in Waterloo,
and they have come to the United States as part of a fellowship program of the
Episcopal Church.
11 27 WATERTOWN
DAY CARE CENTER
Students at the Watertown Day Care Center
located in St. Paul's Episcopal Church, were entertained at a Thanksgiving
dinner. Mrs. Nancy Ries, Todd
Harshbarger, Mrs. Linda Gottschalk, Lori Miller, Debbie Herzog, Paul Nitardy, and Mrs. Barbara Luchini.
1990
12 29 BREAD AND ROSES
Gift
giving and scrumptious dinners have always played a big role during the
Christmas holidays, but what happens when people don’t have families or can’t
afford gifts? There is a place in
Watertown where people in need of food or friends can go for a free dinner once
a week, not just during the holidays, but all year long. Bread and Roses, now in its fourth year,
serves approximately 80 people every Friday night at St. Paul’s Episcopal
Church. The dinner is free and all are
welcome. WDT
1993 REV. M. FRED HIMMERICH BRIDGE
08 04 The Main Street bridge in downtown Watertown will
be known as the “Rev. M. Fred Himmerich Bridge” for the next year. Himmerich, pastor of St. Paul’s Episcopal
Church, was honored at a bridge naming ceremony at Riverfest Saturday evening on
the main stage. Each year the Riverfest
committee selects an individual for this honor who has been a leader in the
community through service activities. Himmerich was presented with his award by
Arthur Turke, a member of the Riverfest committee, and Thomas Schultz,
chairman. WDT
2005
07 24 FIRE
Fire Extensively Damages St. Paul’s Episcopal
Firefighters
use ladder trucks to spray the roof and attic areas of St. Paul's Episcopal
church with thousands of gallons of water in an effort to knock down flames and
halt progress of the blaze early Sunday morning (WHS_005_228)
Lightning struck
St. Paul's Episcopal church during a severe late afternoon thunderstorm on
Saturday, July 23. Fire erupted in the
early hours of the next day, Sunday morning.
The beautiful church, located at the intersection of Second and Spring
streets, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The
fire started when the roof was struck by a lightning bolt, smoldering until
10:30 in the evening, when it spread from the roof to the steeple. Neighbors feared that some structure in the
area had been hit because of the severity of the lighting strike but police
were not able to find any such evidence upon investigating the concerns called
in to the department.
08 25 Workers from Jacobson and Coughlin crane service
signaled the machine operator as the bell was installed in St. Paul’s Episcopal
church bell tower for the second time in 115 years. The bell was removed four weeks earlier so
the bell tower could be repaired after a lightning strike started a fire that
caused substantial damage to the church.
Dedicated to early members of the church, the 1,500 pound bell’s
inscription indicates that it was first dedicated in 1985 [should be
1890?]. WDT
2006
01 17
Fire Gives Church “New Beginning”
Officials
of St. Paul’s Episcopal church in Watertown say a fire that damaged their
facility in July 2005 allowed the parish to start over with a clean slate and
go forward with plans for the future. A rededication ceremony will be held at
the church on Saturday at 4 p.m.
Usually
when a fire damages a structure, those who use that facility run into a lot of
trouble when it comes to the future. But officials at St. Paul's Episcopal
church in Watertown say the blaze that swarmed their facility this past summer
has been a blessing in disguise [ WHS_005_236
]
01 19 A BLESSING IN DISGUISE
Usually when
a fire damages a structure, those who use that facility run into a lot of
trouble when it comes to the future. But
officials at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Watertown say the blaze that
swarmed their facility this past summer has been a blessing in disguise. “We view this as truly a new beginning for
the whole church family,” said Peter Wright, senior warden at the church. “We are starting with a clean slate.” The fire at St. Paul’s started July 23, 2005,
after the steeple was struck by lightning early in the afternoon. The Watertown Fire Department was not
notified of the blaze until later that night because it just smoldered inside
the structure before it took off inside the church itself. WDT
07 11 Rev.
MARK MOORE Appointed Full-Time Deacon
Mark
T. Moore has been appointed as full-time deacon in charge at St. Paul's
Episcopal church in Watertown.
Moore
is returning to Wisconsin after formal pastoral training at Seabury Western
Theological Seminary in Evanston, Ill., where he received a master of divinity
degree in 2005, and is completing a master of theological studies with a focus
on preaching. He was ordained deacon in June and will be ordained priest in
December at St. Paul's.
Moore
served as chaplain of Rush North Shore Medical Center and has been deeply
involved in social justice and outreach projects such as Hilda's Place, a food
pantry, dining hall and temporary residence for homeless people and St.
Leonard’s House, a halfway house.
Moore's
strong, focus on outreach and community, based on a lifelong call to service
and ministry, make him particularly well suited to guide and coach the St.
Paul's family in developing programs to cater to the needy in the Watertown and
surrounding communities.
Moore's
appointment is the celebrated culmination of a year of commitment and focused
work to restore the St. Paul's Episcopal church buildings, and rejuvenate its
membership, in the aftermath of the lightning-induced fire that destroyed a
major portion of the church building on July 23, 2005.
Joining
Moore in the move to Watertown is Mary, his wife of 31 years, and the couple
will make their new home in the St. Paul's rectory on South Second Street. WDT
07 24 FIRE
SPARKS NEW SPIRIT WDTimes
article
2007
11 27 TWO
EVENT CELEBRATRION / SCHUH WINDOW
St. Paul’s
Episcopal will celebrate two events in the life of the parish on Sunday, the
dedication of the “Jesus Heals” stained glass window and the annual Advent
dinner and concert by The Ancora String Quartet of Madison. The window is significant in the life of St.
Paul’s, but also in the life of the community of Watertown as it is dedicated
to God in memory of Drs. Ruth and Eugene Schuh, who served this community for
years. Since the Schuhs were both
physicians, the theme of the window is healing of all kinds and depicts Jesus
healing the blind man. The Schuhs are
remembered as a couple who cared for people of all walks of life and gave of
themselves freely. The window is a reminder
of their ministry to the community, and a reminder that God gives true sight to
see and respond to the needs of the world.
12 06 RESTORED
CHURCH DEDICATED
Taking
a look inside St. Paul’s Episcopal Church many may find it hard to believe a fire
tore through the building two years ago causing severe damage. After much hard work and purchasing of new
equipment, the church will be fully restored when its new organ, piano and
stained glass window are dedicated. “The
organ was really the last major piece of the puzzle in finishing the
restoration,” Rev. Mark Moore, said.
“The whole restoration process has been fantastic.” Lightning struck St. Paul’s steeple starting
a fire early in the afternoon of July 23, 2005.
The fire smoldered inside the steeple before it took off inside the
church. The blaze was reported to the
Watertown Fire Department at about 10:30 p.m. later that day.
2008
04
02 POLICE
CHAPLAINCY PROGRAM
The
Watertown Police Department has formed a
police chaplaincy program and the Rev. Mark Moore of St. Paul's Episcopal
Church and Pastor Doug Stein of Calvary Baptist Church will be serving the
community in this new ministry. The
police chaplains will be available on a 24-hour basis to offer support to
residents in need, which includes comforting grieving families during death
notifications and assisting police during other traumatic incidents.
St. Paul’s to note 150th Anniversary
2010
10 10
The 10
a.m. liturgy will be conducted by the Rev. Mark Moore and the Rt. Rev. Bishop
Steven White using the 1789 Episcopal Prayer Book. Many parishioners will dress in the style of
the period, and some may even arrive by horse and buggy.
St.
Paul’s church dates back to 1847. At
that time, the parish constructed a simple wood building located on Market
Street, between Second and Third streets.
As the parish grew, funds were raised for a new church building. The construction of the building began in
1859.
James Douglas,
a prominent Milwaukee architect of the time, designed the church in the
neogothic style. It was consecrated in
October 1860. Final cost for the church
building was a little more than $3,800.
The plaster vaulted ceiling, which contributes to outstanding acoustics,
is one of a small number in Wisconsin.
There
was a major church fire in 2005. The
fire was taken by the parish as an opportunity for renewal and growth.
St.
Paul’s has since hired a full-time priest, increased participation and
membership, and renewed its obligation to serve its community. The fire, started by lightning striking the
bell tower, ignited a whole new spirit in the congregation. For 160 years St. Paul’s has strived to be a
living presence in Watertown and will continue its ministry for years to come.
2012
02 16 REV.
MARK MOORE called to serve at a new parish
The children of St. Paul’s Episcopal church present a thank you gift
to the Rev. Mark Moore for over five years of service to St. Paul’s Episcopal
church. Moore has been called to serve
at a new parish in Greendale. The Rev.
John Crosswaite will be serving as the interim minister while St. Paul’s Search
Committee begins the process of calling a new priest. WDT
Pictured
are Julian Byrne, Moore, Miles Tolonen, Nicholas Tolonen, Abby Wilke, Alex
Byrne and Allayah Richards.
07 11 Mary’s Room, the brainchild of St. Paul’s
community outreach committee, where local families can receive assistance for
items not covered through food stamps or the federal Women, Infants and
Children program. WDT
2018
07 17 “CENTER
OF CITY” MONUMENT MOVED
Council
Proceedings. Request to move “Center of
City” monument to City Hall. St. Paul’s Church
has requested this monument be removed from their property. Motion carried to remove the monument and
place in safe keeping at the Street Department until a future location is
determined.
2021
07 17 M.
FRED HIMMERICH, 1930-2021
Milwaukee,
WI - The Rev. Canon Dr. M. Fred Himmerich, 90, an Episcopal priest in the
Diocese of Milwaukee, died on Friday, January 29, 2021, in his home at Saint
John’s on the Lake in Milwaukee.
He was
born on October 16, 1930, in Grand Forks, ND, to Fred and Florence Himmerich,
and grew up on farms in South Dakota and Washington state. He met his wife,
Carol, when both were in the choir at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on-the-Hill
in Saint Paul, MN. They were married on December 30, 1958, at Trinity Episcopal
Church in Oshkosh, WI.
Father
Himmerich earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Macalester College and a Master
of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota. He received a Master of
Divinity degree from Nashotah House Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. in
theology (patristics) from Marquette University. He was ordained to the
diaconate on March 17, 1962, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Milwaukee. Fr.
Himmerich was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Donald Hallock on September
16, 1962, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Beloit, WI, where he served as
assistant rector to Fr. Joseph Mazza. In 1965, he became the rector of St.
Paul’s Episcopal Church in Watertown, WI, and served there until his retirement
in 1995.
WHILE
IN WATERTOWN, Fr. Himmerich was involved in many community projects and
organizations. Caring deeply about all people, he was passionate about
advancing social and economic justice. With members of St. Paul’s Watertown, he
started the Bread and Roses free weekly community meal program; and he helped
found a community daycare center. In 1993, he was named the Watertown Main
Street Bridge Honoree for his service to the community. Further roles with the
Diocese of Milwaukee included serving as director of Camp Webb in 1969 and
1970, and as adjunct professor at Nashotah House from 1976 to 1986. He provided
training for deacons and took a leadership role in diocesan commissions. After
his retirement, he filled in as supply clergy, including serving as the interim
dean of All Saints’ Cathedral from 1997 to 1998 and again in 2007.
Fr.
Himmerich’s faith was evident in his life as well as work. He was a talented
organist and played the piano well into his eighties. In the 1950’s, he was
pleased to participate in a backing choir for Marian Anderson as part of his
Macalester College Concert Choir. He was passionate about theological reading
and writing. Bringing in the benefits of simplicity, he made communion wine
from homegrown grapes, enjoyed using his carpentry skills, and often walked to
his destinations. He loved baking bread and pies. Fr. Himmerich cherished
fellowship with others whether over coffee, playing chess, or visiting with his
family and friends. He attended Evensong daily at Saint John’s on the Lake and
continued to lead an All Saints’ Cathedral Bible study, out of the Greek New
Testament, until his death.
Fr.
Himmerich is survived by his five children, Rebecca (the late Patrick) Kelly,
Daniel (Alma), Elizabeth, Sarah, and Catherine Himmerich; nine grandchildren,
Amanda, Megan, Shawn, Bethany, Madeline, Wesley, Rasmus, Elena, and Antonio;
brother, Robert (Eva) Himmerich; two sisters, Sue (Richard) Beem and Dianne
Johnson; sister-in-law, Marna Jenson; and numerous other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Carol; twin brother, A. Frank
(the late Jeanne); and infant granddaughter, Rachel.
A
Requiem Holy Eucharist and committal will take place at 11:00 a.m. at All
Saints’ Cathedral in Milwaukee on October 16, 2021, with The Rt. Rev. Jeffrey
Lee, Provisional Bishop of the Diocese of Milwaukee, and The Very Rev. Dean
Kevin Carroll officiating. The Rev. Dr.
Julian Hills will deliver the homily.
Visitation will be held at the Cathedral from 10:00 a.m. until the time
of the service. Covid precautions will
be followed.
If
desired, memorials are suggested to All Saints’ Cathedral, 818 E. Juneau Ave.,
Milwaukee, WI 53202; St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 413 S. Second St., Watertown,
WI 53094; Bread and Roses, 209 N. 9th St., Watertown, WI 53094; or St. John’s
on the Lake, 1840 N. Prospect Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53202.
Heritage
Funeral Homes
10 12 CORNERSTONE
OPENED
Getting
ready for its 160th anniversary celebration Oct. 24, Watertown’s St. Paul’s
Episcopal Church members Monday opened the cornerstone on its church building,
413 S. Second St. The cornerstone was
laid on Sept. 23, 1859.
The
cornerstone was protecting a treasure trove of items in a time capsule placed
there by the church founders. Among the items
found were local daily newspapers from the time period in both English and
German, a Holy Bible, an Episcopal prayer book from 1859, a copy of the
church’s constitution and other local pamphlets and church organizational
documents.
The
congregation plans to archive and preserve the items and create a new time
capsule to be placed under the cornerstone for future generations to discover.
St.
Paul’s Episcopal Church is on the National Register of Historic Places.
2022
06 17 HISTORIC
STAINED GLASS SHATTERED BY VANDALS
A pair
of historic stained glass windows on the south side of Watertown’s St. Paul’s
Episcopal Church were the casualties of a recent wave of downtown vandalism.
According
to information provided by the church and Watertown police, a vandal caused
damage to windows in the church’s lancet niches and to a window in the door of
the Hawkins Hall entrance over the past weekend.
The
stained-glass windows date to the late 1800s and the incident is believed to
have occurred late Saturday night or early Sunday morning.
“The
glass landed on the organ and was shattered in some pieces to a powder,” said
Matt Brody of the church. “Salvageable pieces are being held for restoration
work made possible by church insurance. The hall door on the corner of South
Third Street was the third window destroyed that night and there were some
signs of an attempted entry.”
The
hall door and the windows have plywood over them as they await repair.
Cross References:
No 1: Daniel Jones was a church organizer
No 2: “ . I am on a pedestrian tour of two hundred
and sixty miles (going and returning). I
left Nashotah on the business of the Mission on Thursday morning of last week. On that day I walked (November 21, 1849)
forty-one miles to the north-west of our Mission, passing through Watertown on
Rock River, which is one of our most populous inland towns. On the 7th the Bishop consecrated the church
that has just been erected in this place.
The Rev. M. Hoyt is the Rector and Missionary. He depends for his support chiefly upon the
weekly offerings. There are about forty communicants. Watertown is twenty-one
miles west of Nashotah . . .” [ “The Life of the Reverend James
Lloyd Breck, D.D.”, Chiefly from Letters Written by Himself, Compiled
by Charles Breck, D.D., New York: E. & J. B. Young, 1883]
No 3: DVD available of 1991 amateur VHS recording
of history and tour by Rev. M Fred Himmerich, rector, of St. Paul’s church and
tower (45 min)
History of Watertown,
Wisconsin