History of Trinity United Church of Christ Evangelical and Reformed Church Thornville Trinity Congregation
Prepared by Allen Alspach for the Centennial Celebration
November 4, 5, and 7, 1937
and updated in 1976 by Mr. and Mrs. Mike Clum
The pioneer minister of the Reformed Church in Ohio was Rev. George Weiss of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania.
At a meeting of the Synod of the Reformed Church at New Holland, Lancaster County, Pa. he was commissioned to visit New Lancaster and neighboring localities in the State of Ohio, whence petitions had reached Synod earnestly calling for ministers. He arrived in Lancaster, Ohio October 20th, 1816 and spent two months visiting localities in Fairfield, Perry, Pickaway and Ross Counties.
He then returned to the east and completed his studies under Dr. Helffenstine in Philadelphia, returning to Lancaster, Ohio the following year. At that time he was the only Reformed minister in the vast field of Central Ohio and first he supplied thirteen congregations which were scattered over four counties, at a distance from each other varying from twenty to fifty six miles.
The whole classis of Lancaster, excepting the Columbus and Delaware charges grew out of this extensive field of labor. On the 23rd of April, 1820, the first classis of the Reformed Church, west of the Allegheny Mountains was organized in Lancaster, Ohio. Five ministers and four Elders were present. The Synod of Ohio was organized June 1824.
Father Weiss prepared a number of students for the ministry, and with some of them he divided his field. One of these was Rev. David Long, a native of Ohio who upon the completion of his studies, received a call from Somerset, Ohio charge and was licensed by Synod of Ohio in May 1826 and ordained May 23rd, 1826. He served four congregations in the northern part of Perry County, namely, Zion, Lebanon, Smiths’ (St. Paul) and Binckley’s. Since Lebanon was the original name of Thornville, he evidently preached in Thornville although it appears that there was no organization until a few years later.
In 1833, cholera made its appearance in Central Ohio, and Rev. Long fell a victim on the 20th day of June 1833, at the age of 32 years. His body rests in the Cemetary at St. Pauls’s near Glenford, Ohio.
In 1834, Rev. Thomas H. Winters became pastor of the Somerset charge and it was during his pastorate that the Thornville Congregation was organized. The earliest record extant is a constitution adopted February 26, 1837. Among the original members we find the following: Jeramiah Runkle, Sebastian Alspach, Daniel Alspach, Jacob Runkle, George Rarick, Amos Alspach, Reuben W. Weiz, Peter Rarick, Jacob Wiseman, and on May 19, 1838 the following named persons were confirmed, being the first to unite with the new congregation: Jessie Alspach, Ruben Gilliland, Joseph Oats, William Oats, Abraham Alspach, Henry Alspach, Melinda Grandstaff, Sarah Oats, Lydis Rundle, Fanny Alspach, Elizabeth Haring, Elizabeth Heckart, Catherine Heckart, and Mary Gilliland.
The congregation worshiped in a building jointly owned and erected by the Reformed and Luthern congregations of Thornville, Ohio.
The Building
The first church building stood on the left of the entering driveway into the new Luthern and Reformed Cemetary, on the highest point of the knoll. The ground compromised one acre and one square rod and was purchased from Peter and Elizabeth Zartman for the sum of fifty dollars. The deed was made on the 27th day of April, 1836, with Phillip Ritter trustee of the Luthern and Sebastian Alspach trustee of the Reformed Church, as grantees, with James Brown, J.P., Jacob Long and Solomon Zartman as witnesses. Just when the work on the building was begun or finished is not known. However, so much is certain, the funeral of one of the children of Rasin Franks occurred in 1838, the services were conducted in the church which was yet without a floor.
The building was a frame structure, and about 37 by 50 feet in dimensions, the length running east and west. It had no gallery as was customary in those days. There were two entrances for the east, one for the men and one for the women. There were also two windows on the east, four on each side and three in the rear, the center one being raised to a sufficient height to accommodate an elevated pulpit. There was a belfry of sufficient size to accommodate a small but beautifully toned bell.
The church had two aisles, one from each entrance, which led directly to the rostrum. This rostrum was semicircular in style and raised about one foot from the floor and was enclosed with a high railing. The pulpit was about five feet high. It was paneled and painted or enameled white and was reached by two stairways, one on each side with about six winding steps. It was also provided with two hand railings.
The altar was about 24 by 36 inches. It too was paneled and painted white. The pews were very plain but made of the best white ash and were without varnish or paint. There were three tiers of pews. The center tier was double and provided with a partition. The pews to the left and right of the rostrum stood lengthwise with the building. Those to the left were occupied by the officers of the church and those to the right by the older women of the congregation. There was no carpet.
The building was heated by two large wood burning stoves, one standing in the center of each side. The pipes raised to a certain height, then sloping towards each other, entered a large drum from which a pipe led into the chimney from the center of the ceiling. The pipe and drum by the aid of rivets and wire, was held securely in place. Not ornamented but indispensable. In the outset there were no lights provided for the church. Some rude lighting fixtures were added later but their introduction was contested on the ground that night services were neither necessary nor wanted. No mention is made of the dedication of St. John’s, but we feel that this was all done at the proper time and with appropriate services.
Pastors of the Charge
1.) Rev. Thomas H. Winters, first pastor, was born near the city of Dayton, Ohio, was educated in the common schools of Germantown, Ohio, pursued his theological studies with his father and brother David. Licensed in July, 1834. Ordained June, 1835, and served as pastor from 1837 to 1840.
2.) Rev. Solomon K. Denius, the second pastor was born in Baltimore County, Maryland. He began his studies for the ministry under the care of Dr. C. L. Becker and completed his studies under the direction of Rev. Jacob Geiger in Manchester, York County, Pa. in 1821. He served as pastor from 1841 to 1843.
3.) Rev. Samuel G. Rickley, the third pastor was born at Beutzberg Canton, of Berne Switzerland January 2, 1819. He attended the parish schools of his native town, where however, the course of study was limited to the three “R’s”, the Heidelberg Catechism and music.
In 1834, his father retired from Government service in order to bring his wife and sixteen children, together with his mother and sister to America. After a voyage of forty days they arrived at New York on July 4 of that year. They then went to Buffalo, N.Y. by canal and from there to Cleveland, Ohio by lake boat. They traveled to Zanesville, to Newark, and finally to a Swiss settlement near Baltimore, Fairfield County, Ohio. The hardships of life in their new home caused serious illness, and within a month, nine of the family, father, mother, and grandmother, aunt and the five younger of the children were dead, leaving the subject of this sketch then 15 years old, the youngest survivor. Mid hardships, disappointments and the loss of parental care, he managed to gain some common school education, drifting into Lancaster, Ohio.
The Rev. Henry Williard, pastor of the Reformed Church, Lancaster, Ohio, took an interest and advised him to prepare himself for the ministry. By studying during spare moments he eventually entered the freshmen class, Marshall College, at Mercersburg, Pennsylvania in the year 1839. He was graduated in 1843. He entered Seminary in 1844 at the request of his friends in order to accept a call to become the pastor of the Somerset charge, Perry County, Ohio.
In October, 1844, Mr. Rickley was ordained by Lancaster Classis of Ohio Synod, and become pastor of the Somerset charge and served from 1844 to 1847. Mr. Rickley died at his home in Columbus, Ohio November 22, 1902 and was buried in Green Lawn Cemetery of that city.
4.) The forth pastor was Rev. Frederick W. Dechant. We have no biographical sketch of the Rev. at hand, but learned that he was licensed and ordained in 1846 and served the Somerset charge from 1847 to 1854. From May 1854, to May 1858 the charge was without a regular pastor. We learn from minutes of Lancaster classis that the Rev. Henry King served as a supply and from December 1856, Rev. King supplied in German and a Rev. Weaver in English.
5.) Rev. Charles W. Hoyman, the fifth pastor, was born in Somerset County, Pa, November 4, 1834. After finishing his studies in Heidelberg College, Tiffin, Ohio he entered the Seminary, Tiffin, from which he was graduated in May, 1858. He immediately accepted a call to the Somerset charge, which he served faithfully for nineteen and on half years from 1858 to 1877.
The Reformed and the Lutheran Congregations had worshiped alternately every two weeks in the building since its erection. At this period, year 1863, it was decided by both congregations, that new buildings were needed for the best interests and advancement of the Kingdom. The old building was abandoned and new locations were selected and new names were chosen. The locations are the present ones. The old church was known at St. John’s Church and the new names chosen were Grace Lutheran and Trinity Reformed.
The new Reformed Church building was handsome in structure for it’s day. It was a brick 37 * 55 with a spire 95 feet high in the center of the front. The building cost $6500, which was a creditable undertaking for a membership of about 40. Uncle Charlie Alspach, presented the congregation with the pulpit Bible for the new edifice, and in later years faithfully cares for the building.
When first built there were two aisles, later a center aisle was formed with aisles along the wall. Etched glass was placed in the windows. At first the building was heated by stoves. About 1898 an excavation was made and a furnace was established.
6.) The sixth pastor, the Rev. F. C. Yost was at Shamoken, Pa., August 6, 1853. Attended the school of his native place, graduated from Ursinus College in Collegeville, Pa., 1896. Studied Theology at the same place, examined and licensed to preach the Gospel by the Susquehanna, Pa. classis May 1877. Ordained and installed as pastor of the Somerset, Ohio charge which he served from 1877 to 1883.
7.) The Rev. Amos Cassleman entered upon the pastorate in the spring of 1883, coming from Fostoria, Ohio. During his pastorate the charge was divided. The church at Somerset, was placed with St. Paul’s and Zion forming the Glenford Charge. Thornville and New Salem congregations formed the Thornville charge. His pastorate extended from 1883 to 1885.
8.) The eighth pastor was the Rev. S. W. Seeman. In the fall of 1885, while yet in the Seminary at Tiffin, Ohio, he began supplying the newly formed Thornville charge and upon his graduation in the spring of 1886, licensed and ordained, he entered upon his pastorate at the age of 23 years. During his pastorate he introduced and adopted the envelope system of weekly contributions. He served from 1886 to 1890.
9.) The Rev. A. D. Wolfinger, the ninth pastor was born in Moxamixon, Ducks County, Pa., March, 1864. He received his preliminary education in the schools of his native place, High school at Sellersville, State Normal at West Chester, Pa., and college course and Theological studies at Ursinus, Collegeville, Pa. His pastorate with the Thornville charge was from 1890 to 1895
10.) The Rev. C. M. Rohrbaugh, the tenth pastor, upon his graduation from Heidleberg Theological Seminary, may 1888 began his pastorate in Thornville charge, which he served from 1895 to 1901.
11.) The Rev. John J. Stauffer the 11th pastor, graduated from the schools and Seminary of Ursinus, Collegeville, Pa., served the charge from 1902 to 1903, returning to the East, York, Pa.
12.) The Rev. John Edward Stone was born near Entrekin, Huntingdon County, Pa., July 13, 1875, attended public schools from 1880 to 1893, taught public schools 1893 to 1895, graduated from Ursinus College in 1900 and from Ursinus school of Theology, Philadelphia, Pa., May, 1903. He was licensed May 25, ordained and installed, Thornville, Ohio, August 11, 1903. The sermon was preched by the Rev. John J. Liberman D.D., Lancaster, Ohio from Isaiah 55, part of the 4th verse, “Behold I have given him, a leader and Commander, to the people.”
After a few months pastorate, the question of repair of the church building came up, the discussion of repairs finally led to the question of a new building. On March 2, 1904, at a congregational meeting, it was decided to build new, -- all present save one, voting favorably. The new building committee was then appointed, including the following:
Pastor, the Rev. John Edward Stone
Elder, Irvin Yost
Elder, G. W. Clum
Deacon, L. A. Clum
Deacon, C. L. Brown
Brothers, John Yost
S. S. Alspach
Albert E. Alspach
Elmer E. Coo
Brother Cooper being the only member of the committee living at this date. The old church building was removed in June 1904. The corner stone of the present building was laid, September 14, 1904. Rev. S. W. Seeman, D.D. (a former pastor) of Columbus, Ohio, preached the sermon. The church was dedicated April 16, 1905. Rev. Charles E. Miller, D.D., President of Heidelberg University Tiffin, Ohio preached the dedication sermon. The church cost $12,500.00, exclusive of materials from the old building used, and donated labor.
(The following articles were placed in the cornerstone:
1. Bible, taken from the cornerstone of the church erected in 1863. This Bible was presented by Mrs. C. W. Hoyman, wife of the pastor 1858-1877.
2. Blank Book – containing names of members of the congregation; of consistory; of building committee; officers of the Sunday School; of the C.E. Society; of the Women’s Missionary Society; and a list of former pastors and some historical notes.
3. Minutes of Lancaster, Ohio classis, Ohio Synod for 1904.
4. C.E. Topic card.
5. Catechism and Constitution.
6. Eastern and Western Almanacs for 1904.
7. Reformed Church Messenger published a Philadelphia.
8. Christian World published at Dayton, Ohio.
9. Home Missionary Bulletin Of the Reformed Church.
10. Statistics of Foreign work.
11. Program 29th annual convention of Lancaster Sunday School Association.
12. Thornville News.
13. Foreign Missionary Day program.
14. Heidelberg Theological Seminary program 1904.
15. Sunday School paper.
16. Heidelberg Teacher.
17. Program of Ohio Synod Dayton, Ohio 1903
18. Woman’s Journal containing historical sketch of the W.M.S of Lancaster Classis.
19. A gold dollar that was in the corner stone of the church erected in 1863. The dollar was originally presented by Jessee Alspach who died before the church erected in 1863 was competed.
20. A cent coined in 1904.
The box was copper 12 inches long, 4 inches wide and 3 ½ inches deep. The box was sealed. The corner stone, Barree granite, was presented by the L.A. More Monumental works, Zanesville, Ohio.)
The last preaching was held in the old church June 5, 1904. Services were regularly held in the Town Hall until March 5, 1905. The pastor Rev. Stone preached the forst sermon in the new building, text Ps. 122-1, “I was glad when they said unto me, let us go unto the house of the Loard.”
The new Constitution which provided for the enlarging of the Consistory from two Elders and two Deacons to three Elders and three Deacons, was adopted January, 1907
The individual communion cups were used for the first time on Easter Sunday, April 11, 1909
The 75th anniversary of the congregation was observed November 7, 8, and 10, 1912. Rev. Stone presented his resignation, December 14, 1912 to take effect February 1, 1913 in order to accept a call from Christ Reformed Church Roaring Springs, Pennsylvania.
Rev. Stone preached his last sermon before leaving for the East, on Sunday, January 26, 1913 from the following text, Exodus 14; 15, “Speak to the children of Israel that they go forward.” The pastorate, covering more than 9 ½ years was the second longest in the history of the charge. At the beginning of the pastorate, July 1903 Trinity church had on the roll 119 members and at the close of the pastorate the membership numbered 197. Of the number 107 became members during his pastorate. Rev. Stone died at Roaring Spring, Pa., May 20 1916.
13.) Rev. Park H. Weaver, the 13th pastor was born at Columbiana, Ohio February 28, 1871, graduated from high school in 1888; from Heidelberg University in 1894, from Theological Seminary in 1897. Became pastor of Thornville charge April 27, 1913. Resigning April 29, 1915 to become pastor of First Reformed Church, Three Rivers, Michigan.
14.) The 14th pastor the Rev. E. Bruce Jacobs, was born in Abbottstown, Pa., December 26, 1888; he attended public schools until 1905; taught several terms, studied at Gettysburg College; graduated from Ursinus Collage 1913 and from Central Theological Seminary in 1916. He was licensed by Lancaster, Ohio classis; ordained and installed at Thornville, Ohio, June 18, 1916. After five years of faithful service he resigned August 7, 1921 taking effect October 1, 1921, to accept a pastorate at Calvary Church, Lima, Ohio. He is now serving Wilson Ave., Columbus, Ohio.
15.) Rev. J. Stanley Richards, graduated from Ursinus College, Pa., and Central Seminary, Dayton, Ohio entering upon his pastorate at Thornville, Ohio charge June 1, 1922 and closed a five year pastorate of faithful service, April 24, 1927.
16.) Rev. S. L. Runkle most acceptably supplying the congregation until the Rev. E. C. Burkhardt the 16th minister entered upon his pastorate, December 1, 1927, closing the same, June 1, 1932.
17.) The 17th pastor, the Rev, C. K. Gebhart, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Beaver Gebhart, Miamisburg, Ohio attended the schools of his native home, graduated from High School, 1924, entering Heidelberg College from which he graduated with the A.B. degree in 1928 and from Central Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio in 1932. He entered upon his pastorate, September 14, 1932. The Rev. introduced pew communion, which was adopted and used the first time January 1, 1933. He concluded his pastorate July 15, 1936 to accept a cal to first Church, Hamilton, Ohio. On July 12, his last Sunday, the congregation held a farewell basket dinner. The farewell was with many regrets.
18.) The 18th minister, the Rev. Paul F. Berkenstock was born August 29, 1908 in Spring City, Chester County, Pennsylvania. He graduated from high school in Spring City in the year 1926, from Ursinsu College in 1930, and from Central Theological Seminary in 1933. He was licensed by Philadelphia Classis, Eastern Synod. Ordained to the ministry by Southwest Ohio Classis on July 16, 1933. On November 1, 1936 he took up his pastorate at Thornville, Ohio and resigned on May 3, 1941.
19.) Rev. Martin P. Knicker, a graduate of Eden Seminary at St. Louis, Mo., became our 19th pastor being installed June 1, 1941. This pastorate lasted until August of 1943, when he resigned to serve a congregation in Dallas, Texas.
20.) Rev. Chester B. Alspach, of Canal Winchester, Ohio filled the pulpit for the congregation until July 9, 1944, when Rev. Paul Aultman from the Mission House of Cheboygan, Wisconsin was installed as our 20th pastor. During this pastorate, the pipe organ was purchased and installed. Rev. Aulman and his parents left us November 21, 1948 to accept a charge in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he still resides. For the next year, Trinity was supplied by William Jacobs, son of Rev. E. Bruce Jacobs, and a student of Oberlin University. Also by Dr. Tinnerman of Columbus, Ohio and by Rev. Glaze Thompson of Columbus, Ohio.
21.) Our 21st pastor Rev. Walter L. Schacht, a graduate of Lancaster Seminary at Mercersburg, Pennsylvania was installed by Rev. Paul Kruman, November 13, 1949. His pastorate lasted until November 1, 1951.
22.) Our 22nd pastor, Rev. Warren E. Souders and family came here from Centerville, Indiana. Rev. Souders was born in Shelby County, Ohio, on June 30, 1895. He attended Ohio Northern and Defiance Colleges and was ordained at Hollansburg, Ohio in 1932. He was installed here in September 13, 1953 by our Synod President Rev. E. Bruce Jacobs of Columbus, Ohio. Rev. and Mrs. Souders were very active in all Church and Sunday School activities as well as all community affairs. Rev. Souders served as pastor of our church until his retirement on October 1, 1966. Both Rev. and Mrs. Souders are presently members here at Trinity and are still very active in church and community affairs.
Once again wee called upon our good friend and neighbor Rev. Chester Alspach of Canal Winchester, Ohio. He very capably filled the pulpit for us from October 1966 until January of 1969. From January 1969 untill August both Claude Budd and Fred Diehl were interim pastors.
23.) Our 23 pastor, Robert Settledge, was installed by Rev. William Barndt, Association minister on August 15, 1969. Rev. Settledge served as pastor until August of 1970. From August 1970 Untill April 1971, our pulpit was filled by supply ministers from surrounding local towns.
24.) Our 24th pastor, the Rev. Ray C. Sturch, D.D., son of Mr. and Mrs. Mack Sturch, Grand Glaise, Arkansas, was born October 15th, 1913. Attended God’s Bible School in Cincinnati, Ohio from 1932 to 1937. Graduated from West Night High School, Cincinnati, Ohio on June 22, 1940. Graduated from Bluffton College of Bluffton, Ohio on June 1, 1953 with B.S. ed. Graduated from the United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio, June of 1957 with B.D. and later March 20, 1972 M. Div., Eastern Nebraska Christian College D.D, June 7, 1970. Ordained by the Pilgrim Holiness Ohio Conference, June1943. Came to the Congregational Christian Church December 1948. Was ordained by the United Church of Christ June 1, 1957. Former U.C. of C. pastorates: Fairview of Georgetown, Ohio; Wabash, Ohio; Laura, Ohio; Dayton First Church; St. Josephs and St. Johns of Waldo, Ohio; coming to Thornville, June 12, 1971 was installed by Dr. William Barndt, Association Minister and continues to serve Trinity at Thornville til this day.
The congregation has contributed the following sons to the ministry.
Rev. Joel Alspach
Rev. C. B. Alsbach
Rev. W. A. Alsbach
Rev. Clem Alsbach
Rev. David Miller
Rev. Wesley Miller
Rev. E. C. Sult
Rev. Parley Zartman
Rev. Pressley Zartman
Rev. Frank Zartman
Rev. Huxley Foster
In July of 1959, our Church became a part oaf the merger with the Congregational Christian Churches becoming the Trinity United Church of Christ. The 1976 membership of our church is 183.
In the summer of 1972, a porch was added to the present structure sheltering the south doors. At the time the cornerstone of the Church built in 1863 was placed in the foundation of the new porch.
For a number of years our people had seen the need for an educational building. In January of 1975, a building committee was authorized to contact a architect and proceed with drawings to be brought back to a congregational meeting. In February 1976, the building committee and architect presented the plan for the educational building. The congregation voted to accept the plan and proceeded to build as soon as we could decide upon the contractor. Within six weeks, bids were received from three conractors. the contract was let to the Gutridge Brothers of Glenford, Ohio. Ground breaking services were held May 2, 1976. In three weeks the construction was begun with dedication on November 21, 1976 and expecting to occupy the building in December of 1976.
We continue to look to the God of our Fathers for guidance in the future of this, His Church.
Prepared by Allen Alspach for the Centennial Celebration
November 4, 5, and 7, 1937
and updated in 1976 by Mr. and Mrs. Mike Clum
The pioneer minister of the Reformed Church in Ohio was Rev. George Weiss of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania.
At a meeting of the Synod of the Reformed Church at New Holland, Lancaster County, Pa. he was commissioned to visit New Lancaster and neighboring localities in the State of Ohio, whence petitions had reached Synod earnestly calling for ministers. He arrived in Lancaster, Ohio October 20th, 1816 and spent two months visiting localities in Fairfield, Perry, Pickaway and Ross Counties.
He then returned to the east and completed his studies under Dr. Helffenstine in Philadelphia, returning to Lancaster, Ohio the following year. At that time he was the only Reformed minister in the vast field of Central Ohio and first he supplied thirteen congregations which were scattered over four counties, at a distance from each other varying from twenty to fifty six miles.
The whole classis of Lancaster, excepting the Columbus and Delaware charges grew out of this extensive field of labor. On the 23rd of April, 1820, the first classis of the Reformed Church, west of the Allegheny Mountains was organized in Lancaster, Ohio. Five ministers and four Elders were present. The Synod of Ohio was organized June 1824.
Father Weiss prepared a number of students for the ministry, and with some of them he divided his field. One of these was Rev. David Long, a native of Ohio who upon the completion of his studies, received a call from Somerset, Ohio charge and was licensed by Synod of Ohio in May 1826 and ordained May 23rd, 1826. He served four congregations in the northern part of Perry County, namely, Zion, Lebanon, Smiths’ (St. Paul) and Binckley’s. Since Lebanon was the original name of Thornville, he evidently preached in Thornville although it appears that there was no organization until a few years later.
In 1833, cholera made its appearance in Central Ohio, and Rev. Long fell a victim on the 20th day of June 1833, at the age of 32 years. His body rests in the Cemetary at St. Pauls’s near Glenford, Ohio.
In 1834, Rev. Thomas H. Winters became pastor of the Somerset charge and it was during his pastorate that the Thornville Congregation was organized. The earliest record extant is a constitution adopted February 26, 1837. Among the original members we find the following: Jeramiah Runkle, Sebastian Alspach, Daniel Alspach, Jacob Runkle, George Rarick, Amos Alspach, Reuben W. Weiz, Peter Rarick, Jacob Wiseman, and on May 19, 1838 the following named persons were confirmed, being the first to unite with the new congregation: Jessie Alspach, Ruben Gilliland, Joseph Oats, William Oats, Abraham Alspach, Henry Alspach, Melinda Grandstaff, Sarah Oats, Lydis Rundle, Fanny Alspach, Elizabeth Haring, Elizabeth Heckart, Catherine Heckart, and Mary Gilliland.
The congregation worshiped in a building jointly owned and erected by the Reformed and Luthern congregations of Thornville, Ohio.
The Building
The first church building stood on the left of the entering driveway into the new Luthern and Reformed Cemetary, on the highest point of the knoll. The ground compromised one acre and one square rod and was purchased from Peter and Elizabeth Zartman for the sum of fifty dollars. The deed was made on the 27th day of April, 1836, with Phillip Ritter trustee of the Luthern and Sebastian Alspach trustee of the Reformed Church, as grantees, with James Brown, J.P., Jacob Long and Solomon Zartman as witnesses. Just when the work on the building was begun or finished is not known. However, so much is certain, the funeral of one of the children of Rasin Franks occurred in 1838, the services were conducted in the church which was yet without a floor.
The building was a frame structure, and about 37 by 50 feet in dimensions, the length running east and west. It had no gallery as was customary in those days. There were two entrances for the east, one for the men and one for the women. There were also two windows on the east, four on each side and three in the rear, the center one being raised to a sufficient height to accommodate an elevated pulpit. There was a belfry of sufficient size to accommodate a small but beautifully toned bell.
The church had two aisles, one from each entrance, which led directly to the rostrum. This rostrum was semicircular in style and raised about one foot from the floor and was enclosed with a high railing. The pulpit was about five feet high. It was paneled and painted or enameled white and was reached by two stairways, one on each side with about six winding steps. It was also provided with two hand railings.
The altar was about 24 by 36 inches. It too was paneled and painted white. The pews were very plain but made of the best white ash and were without varnish or paint. There were three tiers of pews. The center tier was double and provided with a partition. The pews to the left and right of the rostrum stood lengthwise with the building. Those to the left were occupied by the officers of the church and those to the right by the older women of the congregation. There was no carpet.
The building was heated by two large wood burning stoves, one standing in the center of each side. The pipes raised to a certain height, then sloping towards each other, entered a large drum from which a pipe led into the chimney from the center of the ceiling. The pipe and drum by the aid of rivets and wire, was held securely in place. Not ornamented but indispensable. In the outset there were no lights provided for the church. Some rude lighting fixtures were added later but their introduction was contested on the ground that night services were neither necessary nor wanted. No mention is made of the dedication of St. John’s, but we feel that this was all done at the proper time and with appropriate services.
Pastors of the Charge
1.) Rev. Thomas H. Winters, first pastor, was born near the city of Dayton, Ohio, was educated in the common schools of Germantown, Ohio, pursued his theological studies with his father and brother David. Licensed in July, 1834. Ordained June, 1835, and served as pastor from 1837 to 1840.
2.) Rev. Solomon K. Denius, the second pastor was born in Baltimore County, Maryland. He began his studies for the ministry under the care of Dr. C. L. Becker and completed his studies under the direction of Rev. Jacob Geiger in Manchester, York County, Pa. in 1821. He served as pastor from 1841 to 1843.
3.) Rev. Samuel G. Rickley, the third pastor was born at Beutzberg Canton, of Berne Switzerland January 2, 1819. He attended the parish schools of his native town, where however, the course of study was limited to the three “R’s”, the Heidelberg Catechism and music.
In 1834, his father retired from Government service in order to bring his wife and sixteen children, together with his mother and sister to America. After a voyage of forty days they arrived at New York on July 4 of that year. They then went to Buffalo, N.Y. by canal and from there to Cleveland, Ohio by lake boat. They traveled to Zanesville, to Newark, and finally to a Swiss settlement near Baltimore, Fairfield County, Ohio. The hardships of life in their new home caused serious illness, and within a month, nine of the family, father, mother, and grandmother, aunt and the five younger of the children were dead, leaving the subject of this sketch then 15 years old, the youngest survivor. Mid hardships, disappointments and the loss of parental care, he managed to gain some common school education, drifting into Lancaster, Ohio.
The Rev. Henry Williard, pastor of the Reformed Church, Lancaster, Ohio, took an interest and advised him to prepare himself for the ministry. By studying during spare moments he eventually entered the freshmen class, Marshall College, at Mercersburg, Pennsylvania in the year 1839. He was graduated in 1843. He entered Seminary in 1844 at the request of his friends in order to accept a call to become the pastor of the Somerset charge, Perry County, Ohio.
In October, 1844, Mr. Rickley was ordained by Lancaster Classis of Ohio Synod, and become pastor of the Somerset charge and served from 1844 to 1847. Mr. Rickley died at his home in Columbus, Ohio November 22, 1902 and was buried in Green Lawn Cemetery of that city.
4.) The forth pastor was Rev. Frederick W. Dechant. We have no biographical sketch of the Rev. at hand, but learned that he was licensed and ordained in 1846 and served the Somerset charge from 1847 to 1854. From May 1854, to May 1858 the charge was without a regular pastor. We learn from minutes of Lancaster classis that the Rev. Henry King served as a supply and from December 1856, Rev. King supplied in German and a Rev. Weaver in English.
5.) Rev. Charles W. Hoyman, the fifth pastor, was born in Somerset County, Pa, November 4, 1834. After finishing his studies in Heidelberg College, Tiffin, Ohio he entered the Seminary, Tiffin, from which he was graduated in May, 1858. He immediately accepted a call to the Somerset charge, which he served faithfully for nineteen and on half years from 1858 to 1877.
The Reformed and the Lutheran Congregations had worshiped alternately every two weeks in the building since its erection. At this period, year 1863, it was decided by both congregations, that new buildings were needed for the best interests and advancement of the Kingdom. The old building was abandoned and new locations were selected and new names were chosen. The locations are the present ones. The old church was known at St. John’s Church and the new names chosen were Grace Lutheran and Trinity Reformed.
The new Reformed Church building was handsome in structure for it’s day. It was a brick 37 * 55 with a spire 95 feet high in the center of the front. The building cost $6500, which was a creditable undertaking for a membership of about 40. Uncle Charlie Alspach, presented the congregation with the pulpit Bible for the new edifice, and in later years faithfully cares for the building.
When first built there were two aisles, later a center aisle was formed with aisles along the wall. Etched glass was placed in the windows. At first the building was heated by stoves. About 1898 an excavation was made and a furnace was established.
6.) The sixth pastor, the Rev. F. C. Yost was at Shamoken, Pa., August 6, 1853. Attended the school of his native place, graduated from Ursinus College in Collegeville, Pa., 1896. Studied Theology at the same place, examined and licensed to preach the Gospel by the Susquehanna, Pa. classis May 1877. Ordained and installed as pastor of the Somerset, Ohio charge which he served from 1877 to 1883.
7.) The Rev. Amos Cassleman entered upon the pastorate in the spring of 1883, coming from Fostoria, Ohio. During his pastorate the charge was divided. The church at Somerset, was placed with St. Paul’s and Zion forming the Glenford Charge. Thornville and New Salem congregations formed the Thornville charge. His pastorate extended from 1883 to 1885.
8.) The eighth pastor was the Rev. S. W. Seeman. In the fall of 1885, while yet in the Seminary at Tiffin, Ohio, he began supplying the newly formed Thornville charge and upon his graduation in the spring of 1886, licensed and ordained, he entered upon his pastorate at the age of 23 years. During his pastorate he introduced and adopted the envelope system of weekly contributions. He served from 1886 to 1890.
9.) The Rev. A. D. Wolfinger, the ninth pastor was born in Moxamixon, Ducks County, Pa., March, 1864. He received his preliminary education in the schools of his native place, High school at Sellersville, State Normal at West Chester, Pa., and college course and Theological studies at Ursinus, Collegeville, Pa. His pastorate with the Thornville charge was from 1890 to 1895
10.) The Rev. C. M. Rohrbaugh, the tenth pastor, upon his graduation from Heidleberg Theological Seminary, may 1888 began his pastorate in Thornville charge, which he served from 1895 to 1901.
11.) The Rev. John J. Stauffer the 11th pastor, graduated from the schools and Seminary of Ursinus, Collegeville, Pa., served the charge from 1902 to 1903, returning to the East, York, Pa.
12.) The Rev. John Edward Stone was born near Entrekin, Huntingdon County, Pa., July 13, 1875, attended public schools from 1880 to 1893, taught public schools 1893 to 1895, graduated from Ursinus College in 1900 and from Ursinus school of Theology, Philadelphia, Pa., May, 1903. He was licensed May 25, ordained and installed, Thornville, Ohio, August 11, 1903. The sermon was preched by the Rev. John J. Liberman D.D., Lancaster, Ohio from Isaiah 55, part of the 4th verse, “Behold I have given him, a leader and Commander, to the people.”
After a few months pastorate, the question of repair of the church building came up, the discussion of repairs finally led to the question of a new building. On March 2, 1904, at a congregational meeting, it was decided to build new, -- all present save one, voting favorably. The new building committee was then appointed, including the following:
Pastor, the Rev. John Edward Stone
Elder, Irvin Yost
Elder, G. W. Clum
Deacon, L. A. Clum
Deacon, C. L. Brown
Brothers, John Yost
S. S. Alspach
Albert E. Alspach
Elmer E. Coo
Brother Cooper being the only member of the committee living at this date. The old church building was removed in June 1904. The corner stone of the present building was laid, September 14, 1904. Rev. S. W. Seeman, D.D. (a former pastor) of Columbus, Ohio, preached the sermon. The church was dedicated April 16, 1905. Rev. Charles E. Miller, D.D., President of Heidelberg University Tiffin, Ohio preached the dedication sermon. The church cost $12,500.00, exclusive of materials from the old building used, and donated labor.
(The following articles were placed in the cornerstone:
1. Bible, taken from the cornerstone of the church erected in 1863. This Bible was presented by Mrs. C. W. Hoyman, wife of the pastor 1858-1877.
2. Blank Book – containing names of members of the congregation; of consistory; of building committee; officers of the Sunday School; of the C.E. Society; of the Women’s Missionary Society; and a list of former pastors and some historical notes.
3. Minutes of Lancaster, Ohio classis, Ohio Synod for 1904.
4. C.E. Topic card.
5. Catechism and Constitution.
6. Eastern and Western Almanacs for 1904.
7. Reformed Church Messenger published a Philadelphia.
8. Christian World published at Dayton, Ohio.
9. Home Missionary Bulletin Of the Reformed Church.
10. Statistics of Foreign work.
11. Program 29th annual convention of Lancaster Sunday School Association.
12. Thornville News.
13. Foreign Missionary Day program.
14. Heidelberg Theological Seminary program 1904.
15. Sunday School paper.
16. Heidelberg Teacher.
17. Program of Ohio Synod Dayton, Ohio 1903
18. Woman’s Journal containing historical sketch of the W.M.S of Lancaster Classis.
19. A gold dollar that was in the corner stone of the church erected in 1863. The dollar was originally presented by Jessee Alspach who died before the church erected in 1863 was competed.
20. A cent coined in 1904.
The box was copper 12 inches long, 4 inches wide and 3 ½ inches deep. The box was sealed. The corner stone, Barree granite, was presented by the L.A. More Monumental works, Zanesville, Ohio.)
The last preaching was held in the old church June 5, 1904. Services were regularly held in the Town Hall until March 5, 1905. The pastor Rev. Stone preached the forst sermon in the new building, text Ps. 122-1, “I was glad when they said unto me, let us go unto the house of the Loard.”
The new Constitution which provided for the enlarging of the Consistory from two Elders and two Deacons to three Elders and three Deacons, was adopted January, 1907
The individual communion cups were used for the first time on Easter Sunday, April 11, 1909
The 75th anniversary of the congregation was observed November 7, 8, and 10, 1912. Rev. Stone presented his resignation, December 14, 1912 to take effect February 1, 1913 in order to accept a call from Christ Reformed Church Roaring Springs, Pennsylvania.
Rev. Stone preached his last sermon before leaving for the East, on Sunday, January 26, 1913 from the following text, Exodus 14; 15, “Speak to the children of Israel that they go forward.” The pastorate, covering more than 9 ½ years was the second longest in the history of the charge. At the beginning of the pastorate, July 1903 Trinity church had on the roll 119 members and at the close of the pastorate the membership numbered 197. Of the number 107 became members during his pastorate. Rev. Stone died at Roaring Spring, Pa., May 20 1916.
13.) Rev. Park H. Weaver, the 13th pastor was born at Columbiana, Ohio February 28, 1871, graduated from high school in 1888; from Heidelberg University in 1894, from Theological Seminary in 1897. Became pastor of Thornville charge April 27, 1913. Resigning April 29, 1915 to become pastor of First Reformed Church, Three Rivers, Michigan.
14.) The 14th pastor the Rev. E. Bruce Jacobs, was born in Abbottstown, Pa., December 26, 1888; he attended public schools until 1905; taught several terms, studied at Gettysburg College; graduated from Ursinus Collage 1913 and from Central Theological Seminary in 1916. He was licensed by Lancaster, Ohio classis; ordained and installed at Thornville, Ohio, June 18, 1916. After five years of faithful service he resigned August 7, 1921 taking effect October 1, 1921, to accept a pastorate at Calvary Church, Lima, Ohio. He is now serving Wilson Ave., Columbus, Ohio.
15.) Rev. J. Stanley Richards, graduated from Ursinus College, Pa., and Central Seminary, Dayton, Ohio entering upon his pastorate at Thornville, Ohio charge June 1, 1922 and closed a five year pastorate of faithful service, April 24, 1927.
16.) Rev. S. L. Runkle most acceptably supplying the congregation until the Rev. E. C. Burkhardt the 16th minister entered upon his pastorate, December 1, 1927, closing the same, June 1, 1932.
17.) The 17th pastor, the Rev, C. K. Gebhart, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Beaver Gebhart, Miamisburg, Ohio attended the schools of his native home, graduated from High School, 1924, entering Heidelberg College from which he graduated with the A.B. degree in 1928 and from Central Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio in 1932. He entered upon his pastorate, September 14, 1932. The Rev. introduced pew communion, which was adopted and used the first time January 1, 1933. He concluded his pastorate July 15, 1936 to accept a cal to first Church, Hamilton, Ohio. On July 12, his last Sunday, the congregation held a farewell basket dinner. The farewell was with many regrets.
18.) The 18th minister, the Rev. Paul F. Berkenstock was born August 29, 1908 in Spring City, Chester County, Pennsylvania. He graduated from high school in Spring City in the year 1926, from Ursinsu College in 1930, and from Central Theological Seminary in 1933. He was licensed by Philadelphia Classis, Eastern Synod. Ordained to the ministry by Southwest Ohio Classis on July 16, 1933. On November 1, 1936 he took up his pastorate at Thornville, Ohio and resigned on May 3, 1941.
19.) Rev. Martin P. Knicker, a graduate of Eden Seminary at St. Louis, Mo., became our 19th pastor being installed June 1, 1941. This pastorate lasted until August of 1943, when he resigned to serve a congregation in Dallas, Texas.
20.) Rev. Chester B. Alspach, of Canal Winchester, Ohio filled the pulpit for the congregation until July 9, 1944, when Rev. Paul Aultman from the Mission House of Cheboygan, Wisconsin was installed as our 20th pastor. During this pastorate, the pipe organ was purchased and installed. Rev. Aulman and his parents left us November 21, 1948 to accept a charge in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he still resides. For the next year, Trinity was supplied by William Jacobs, son of Rev. E. Bruce Jacobs, and a student of Oberlin University. Also by Dr. Tinnerman of Columbus, Ohio and by Rev. Glaze Thompson of Columbus, Ohio.
21.) Our 21st pastor Rev. Walter L. Schacht, a graduate of Lancaster Seminary at Mercersburg, Pennsylvania was installed by Rev. Paul Kruman, November 13, 1949. His pastorate lasted until November 1, 1951.
22.) Our 22nd pastor, Rev. Warren E. Souders and family came here from Centerville, Indiana. Rev. Souders was born in Shelby County, Ohio, on June 30, 1895. He attended Ohio Northern and Defiance Colleges and was ordained at Hollansburg, Ohio in 1932. He was installed here in September 13, 1953 by our Synod President Rev. E. Bruce Jacobs of Columbus, Ohio. Rev. and Mrs. Souders were very active in all Church and Sunday School activities as well as all community affairs. Rev. Souders served as pastor of our church until his retirement on October 1, 1966. Both Rev. and Mrs. Souders are presently members here at Trinity and are still very active in church and community affairs.
Once again wee called upon our good friend and neighbor Rev. Chester Alspach of Canal Winchester, Ohio. He very capably filled the pulpit for us from October 1966 until January of 1969. From January 1969 untill August both Claude Budd and Fred Diehl were interim pastors.
23.) Our 23 pastor, Robert Settledge, was installed by Rev. William Barndt, Association minister on August 15, 1969. Rev. Settledge served as pastor until August of 1970. From August 1970 Untill April 1971, our pulpit was filled by supply ministers from surrounding local towns.
24.) Our 24th pastor, the Rev. Ray C. Sturch, D.D., son of Mr. and Mrs. Mack Sturch, Grand Glaise, Arkansas, was born October 15th, 1913. Attended God’s Bible School in Cincinnati, Ohio from 1932 to 1937. Graduated from West Night High School, Cincinnati, Ohio on June 22, 1940. Graduated from Bluffton College of Bluffton, Ohio on June 1, 1953 with B.S. ed. Graduated from the United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio, June of 1957 with B.D. and later March 20, 1972 M. Div., Eastern Nebraska Christian College D.D, June 7, 1970. Ordained by the Pilgrim Holiness Ohio Conference, June1943. Came to the Congregational Christian Church December 1948. Was ordained by the United Church of Christ June 1, 1957. Former U.C. of C. pastorates: Fairview of Georgetown, Ohio; Wabash, Ohio; Laura, Ohio; Dayton First Church; St. Josephs and St. Johns of Waldo, Ohio; coming to Thornville, June 12, 1971 was installed by Dr. William Barndt, Association Minister and continues to serve Trinity at Thornville til this day.
The congregation has contributed the following sons to the ministry.
Rev. Joel Alspach
Rev. C. B. Alsbach
Rev. W. A. Alsbach
Rev. Clem Alsbach
Rev. David Miller
Rev. Wesley Miller
Rev. E. C. Sult
Rev. Parley Zartman
Rev. Pressley Zartman
Rev. Frank Zartman
Rev. Huxley Foster
In July of 1959, our Church became a part oaf the merger with the Congregational Christian Churches becoming the Trinity United Church of Christ. The 1976 membership of our church is 183.
In the summer of 1972, a porch was added to the present structure sheltering the south doors. At the time the cornerstone of the Church built in 1863 was placed in the foundation of the new porch.
For a number of years our people had seen the need for an educational building. In January of 1975, a building committee was authorized to contact a architect and proceed with drawings to be brought back to a congregational meeting. In February 1976, the building committee and architect presented the plan for the educational building. The congregation voted to accept the plan and proceeded to build as soon as we could decide upon the contractor. Within six weeks, bids were received from three conractors. the contract was let to the Gutridge Brothers of Glenford, Ohio. Ground breaking services were held May 2, 1976. In three weeks the construction was begun with dedication on November 21, 1976 and expecting to occupy the building in December of 1976.
We continue to look to the God of our Fathers for guidance in the future of this, His Church.
