STOCKING PRECINCT

There were about twenty-five charter members. It has always been a family organization and supported the 4-H activities, such as their horse shows and the calf sale. The membership over the years has averaged about 75 persons.

   The younger members are strong competitors and have earned national awards in the University of Nebraska Agricultural College activities; Denver Stock Show and American Royal in Kansas City. The first activities were trail rides, ending with weiner roasts, steak fries and picnics; also lively participation in the Wahoo Memorial Day parades, Ox-Bow trail rides, Ashland Stirrup Days and overnight camping trip to the Boy Scout Camp at Cedar Bluffs. The winter activities included sleigh rides, potluck and chili suppers, and square dancing, which appealed to all ages. Many folk were interested in joining the club to ride or square dance; however the club was restricted to only those who owned horses.

   Realizing there were certain fundamentals to good horsemanship, the Club started sponsoring horse shows. At first, it was for Saunders County entrants only; then branched out to Eastern Nebraska and even into western Iowa.

   The parents began to see that with the bigger shows, more competition called for better horses. A $50 horse was good enough at first to be a Saddle Club member and a winner. How, it is not unusual now for the parents of three or four children to have each child riding an animal that would sell for thousands of dollars, however their animals are never for sale.

   The first big horse shows were in 1952, '53 and 54; and in 1955 sponsored The Nebraska Horse Club Association Jamboree. Trophies and ribbons were given in 23 events. Every Club member worked to make the event a success and it was certainly a "Jamboree" for those who admire good horse flesh.

   Rodeo began to have a greater appeal. The Club changed to that as their main activity. The Club often bought a block of tickets for the Ak-Sar-Ben Rodeo and went as a group. That was a learning experience. The rodeo in 1982 was the twenty-eighth annual event for the Wahoo Saddle Horse Club. The Rodeo is usually held at the same time as the Sidney, Iowa and Burwell Rodeos. Topnotch cowboys fly into Wahoo on their way between those towns.

   The Club has never realized great sums of money, but that was not the intent of the members. It is very good for Wahoo, Saunders County and those families who have been fortunate enough to call themselves "Wahoo Saddle Horse Club members." Submitted by Gertrude Placek

   The Wahoo Christian Women's Club was started in this community in Sept. of 1975. It is part of a national association of homemakers who meet once a month for a brunch or luncheon meeting all across the North American Continent and even overseas. These clubs are unique in that they have no memberships or dues. All who attend are encouraged to invite friends and neighbors to an inspirational and relaxing occasion.

   The Wahoo Christian Women's Club meets at the Eagles Club the 2nd Wed. of every month at 9:30 a.m. for their brunch and is for all area women. Fine music is provided by local talent and special features of contemporary appeal create interesting conversation during the meal. Special features have been many and varied. Some of the favorites were a bridal fashion show of the past decades, a travel tour of Hawaii, Nebraskaland vacation spots, popular fashions of the past century, patchwork quilting, and a Go-Big-Red pep rally with Jeff Kinney.

   Through well-informed, inspirational speakers, those who attend are challenged to consider the satisfying way of life in Jesus Christ. The answer to life is presented from the Word of God.

   The first Christian Women's Clubs were formed in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and Hartford, Connecticut, in 1949 by Mrs. Helen Baugh and Miss Mary Clark. The national headquarters are at Stonecroft Ministries in Kansas City, Missouri. Other outreaches include Christian Business and Professional Women Councils and Business and Professional Couples' Clubs.

   Friendship Bible Coffees are made available through the club. They are small groups meeting in homes over a friendly cup of coffee, with guides instead of teachers, with discussion instead of lecture, with short courses varying in length from 5 to 14 weeks. Neighbors meet informally to read and discuss the "World's Greatest Book."

   Officers for the local board serving the Christian Women's Club are from area women representing many different denominations. The first chairman was Mrs. Mary Mittan of Wahoo who served from 1975 to 1977. The next chairman was Mrs. Pat Wright of Wahoo who served from 1977 to 1978. From 1978 to 1980 Mrs. Joyce Svoboda of Yutan was chairman. From 1980 to 1982 Mrs. Joanna Swartz of Wahoo served as chairman, and in Sept of this year Mrs. Bette Nygren of Wahoo took over as chairman.

   The club endeavors to perpetuate good will in the community and work in harmony with the local churches.

   The Mendelssohn Music Club of Wahoo was converted into the federated Woman's Club in 1913 with 50 charter members. The club still has the first year-book. This club was the forerunner of all women's civic clubs in Wahoo and it has the distinction of accomplishing many worthwhile projects.

   During World War I the club voted to abandon club work and devote time to the Red Cross activities and the members gladly responded. A meeting was called January 24, 1919 to resume the activities of the club. A desire for a library was increasing and, by soliciting books and money contributions from people in the community, a library was realized. It was officially opened March 21, 1923 in the upstairs room in the old City Hall.

   A community Christmas Tree was sponsored in 1916. They first mentioned the need of a Community Chest in 1928. Dr. Howard Hanson was given a reception in February of 1924. They helped the Camp Fire Girls with a day full of parades, lunches, etc., which earned $225.00. In 1929 the club entertained the American Legion and their wives with a lunch and program. The club made Memorial Day wreaths until the Auxiliary was formed. They sponsored the first "Better Babies" contest at our County Fair. They aided materially in establishing our parks and tennis courts. The club presented a Home Talent lyceum program in the Wahoo Opera House February, 1928. In 1931 they voted to give $35 to help buy seed for Community gardens. A festival of Nations at the Veterans building sponsored by the club garnered $500 for Wahoo's swimming pool. In past years they have given money for pianos for the High School, money for the band, and one year they sponsored the Saunders County eighth grade graduation. They also saw to it that a Kindergarten got established in the Wahoo schools. They supported several movies and book reviews for financial assistance.

   The club has met in many places; homes, High School, churches, Chamber of Commerce rooms, the Legion meeting room, the Veteran's building and finally in their own meeting room in the basement of the Saunders County Historical House in 1964.

   This project has become the one big goal the last 25 years. It is the restoration and preservation of the Dr. Howard Hanson birthplace on 12th and Linden streets which honors Wahoo's five famous men, namely; Dr. Hanson, Dr. George Beadle, Darryl Zanuck, Wahoo Sam Crawford and Clarence Anderson. In 1963 all of these native sons were alive, but today only Dr. Beadle is the only living member of these famous five men and he resides in California.

   This project began on May 9, 1963. Dr. Hanson sent the money to the city of Wahoo who bought the property from the Aldrich estate. The city deeded it to the Saunders County Historical Society who in turn leased it for 50 years to the Woman's Club of Wahoo. The work took many months with many hours of volunteer labor by the members of the club and other interested citizens. Cash donations were solicited and a goodly sum was realized from the lunches served at the Tractor Day in Mead for several years. The basement was remodeled into a clubroom and the two upper floors were furnished with period pieces of the Victorian era. The club is grateful to many people for their fine donations. An Open House was held on June 11, 1965 when 600 visitors toured the home. It is now open on Sunday afternoons during the summer and by appointment.

   The club is now in its 69th year and has 65 members. The hopes and prayers of this club is that after these dedicated women are gone, there will be others who will care enough to maintain and preserve this bit of Saunders County history. The Womans Club of Wahoo is federated with the General Club which has its headquarters in Washington, D.C. The club is incorporated so all gifts to the club are tax-deductible.

   In 1918, just after the great suffrage movement had been successfully completed, and women were becoming more active in civic organizations, the idea of a Mother's Club for Wahoo was conceived by Mrs. Henry Pickett, whose husband was a former publisher of the "Wahoo Wasp." Assisted by Mrs. J.R. Thompson, wife of a former dentist in Wahoo, 24 mothers were contacted and the first meeting was held at Mrs. Pickett's home in 1919.

   The past and present purpose of the club, has been to promote better character development along social, educational and civic aims, both for the mother and child. Numerous lessons and programs have been given over the 64 years of the club's existence. Some of these are as follows: Child Discipline, Health Problems of Children, Child Education, Dental Care, Legal Advice, Craft Ideas, Interior Decorating, Book Reviews, Halloween and Christmas Parties with Children, Dinner Parties with Husbands, Family Hayrack Rides, etc. A few new lessons that have been given recently are: Powder-Puff Mechanics, Coupon Saving and Refunding, Self-Defense for Women, Lamaze Techniques, and Rape Prevention.

   Many donations have been given to various organizations, such as: Saunders County Hospital, Wahoo Library, Red Cross, American Cancer Society, Haven House, Saunders County Care Center, etc. In 1931, a monument was presented to the county in memory of the pioneers of early days by the Club. This stands on the Court House lawn. The program known as "Pre-School Roundup" has been supported by the Wahoo's Mother's Club since its beginning.

   The first Officers in 1919 were: President -- Mrs. J.R. Thompson and Secretary -- Mrs. J.F. Lauvetz. The other officers' names are not available. The Officers for 1982-83 are: President -- Mrs. Ron Bottorff, Vice-President -- Mrs. Joe Miller, Secretary -- Mrs. Kevin Ingemansen, Treasurer -- Mrs. Tim Turman, and Courtesy Chairman -- Mrs. Eldon Davis.

   The Wahoo Mothers Study Club was organized in 1935 with twenty-four members enrolled. The president was Florence Calloway and secretary-treasurer was Imogene Dawson. The club began as a formal group of women discussing such topics as "Religious Training and Character Building" but through the years has become a more casual and informal group.

   The club flower is a red carnation and club colors are red and white.

   The club purpose is to be a social club for young mothers to meet and form new friendships. We always welcome guests.

   Our special project has been to assist with the Kindergarten Round-Up held each year at West Ward Elementary School.

   We will be celebrating our 50th anniversary in 1985 and have twenty-one members enrolled in our 1982-83 year with the officers named as follows:

page 135

President -- Rita Lindahl, Vice-President -- Sharon Spicka, Secretary-Treasurer -- Cindy Peterson.

Bethlehem Lutheran Church -- Wahoo, Nebr.

   On Christmas morning, 1883, a small group of Swedish Lutherans met for the first "Jul-Otta" ever held in Wahoo. It was celebrated at the Presbyterian church on seventh street. Later that day the Bethlehem Lutheran Congregation of the Augustana Synod was organized at Luther Academy, with seventeen charter members present. Rev. Martin Noyd, president of Luther Academy, was called to be the first pastor with a salary of $100 a year plus two offerings per year, and $85 was subscribed to purchase church lots. Two years later three lots in block nine were purchased for $400.

   The decision to erect the first church building was made January 31, 1887, total cost not to exceed $5,000. $825 was subscribed at the first meeting. This was an heroic act of faith and sacrifice, since the congregation consisted of thirty-eight communicants, of whom only twenty-nine were able to contribute. The building was dedicated September 2, 1888, at a cost of $3,300.

   Feeling the need to attract more permanent pastors, the congregation decided to build a parsonage in 1893. It was felt that with a more permanent home the pastor could devote more time to spiritual matters. The new parsonage was first occupied in 1895. Located just west of the present parsonage, it has been remodeled and is still occupied.

   During the first ten years of the 1900's the membership more than doubled. On June 4, 1906 it was decided to build a new church -- the present one. Contract price was $10,000, contractor S.P. Walstrom, completion date to be May 15, 1907. When the corner stone was laid $8,500 had been subscribed toward the building fund. Total cost, including furnishings, was $16,687. An organ installed in 1908 cost $2,000 and a bell $1400. The present parsonage was built in 1914 at a cost of $6,000.

   How does one write the history of a church that in less than a year will celebrate the first one hundred years of its history? Bethlehem has been shepherded by thirteen pastors. Its fourteenth, Pastor Kent Morse, came in November, 1980. Each pastor has provided leadership in his own special way, with his own special emphasis during his time of ministry.

   As we look at the early struggles of the pioneer founders of Bethlehem Church, we thank God for his guidance in providing strong pastoral and lay leadership, and for the strong Christian influence of teachers and students of Luther College who shared in the early life of church and community.

   Following World War II the congregation became acutely aware of need for enlarged educational facilities and new equipment. An educational wing was built and equipped. Faithful organists, choirs and directors were encouraged by the installation of a new Reuter organ. Special evangelism efforts were begun then as people moved in and out of the area in the reshuffling era following the war years. These efforts have perhaps been strongest the past few years, but have never lapsed.

   The demise of Luther College in 1962 and the merger of Lutheran Churches into one LCA Church, brought a period of uncertainty and self-examination of purpose. New hymnals have added to the confusion which existed for some years. Strong, if sometimes subdued, leadership of several pastors served to emphasize that continued Christian witnessing was Bethlehem's responsibility to the present and the future. In order to better fulfill this purpose, many improvements were made to the physical plant, creating an inviting, worshipful yet practical setting in which to communicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the community and the world.

   Through constant evangelism during ensuing years, the charter membership of seventeen communicants has increased to a baptized membership of 660 in Bethlehem's ninety-nine years of existence. Six young men have entered the ministry and several missionaries have gone out and received support from Bethlehem.

   The Centennial Committee has made great plans for the observance of Bethlehem's 100th anniversary in 1983. It will speak with gratitude to God for faithful pastors, missionaries, and thousands of lay-witnesses who have preached, taught, sung and lived their faith in Christ and His Church. Dagmar Peterson

Karen and Pastor Jim Seibel at Calvary Baptist Church Wahoo, Nebr.

   Calvary Baptist Church, Wahoo, although small in structure, is big on spreading the Gospel through preaching, teaching, Bible studies, music, children's clubs, and Vacation Bible School. As it begins its ninth year as an official Baptist General Conference Church, it can be said that Calvary's ministry has reached many people in Wahoo and the surrounding communities.

   It all started early in 1969 when Don McPeck, Richard Larsen, and their families, began praying for a new Bible-teaching church in Wahoo. As a result of their prayers, Ross Johnson consented to conduct services in the basement of the Farmer's Mutual Building downtown. Rev. Johnson also led services in Ashland, where he eventually became the full-time pastor.

   Paul Lundgren, the state secretary of the Baptist General Conference, encouraged the families in Wahoo involved in this new work. He said, "Just keep sowing the Word of God and He will cause increase in His own time."

   Finally, in May of 1972, God led Gary Warrick and his wife, Cherry, both brand new graduates of Grace College of the Bible, to Wahoo, to become a full-time pastor team. This gave the new church the security and stability it needed.

   Among other things, Pastor Gary, started a vital, growing youth ministry called the "One Way Inn." It met in a house on the corner of 12th and Pine. He also led several home Bible studies.

   The church was growing, so it was decided to make Calvary Baptist a permanent part of Wahoo, and, on February 21, 1974, Calvary officially organized, joining with the Great Plains General Conference churches. There were 32 charter members.

   In May of 1975, the church began to build a practical, resalable structure at 1655 Locust, for temporary use. Forty percent of the labor was volunteered from the congregation and the community. On November 4, 1975, the structure was dedicated to God in thanks for His providing and blessing.

   Just recently, under the leadership of Pastor Jim Seibel and his wife, Karen, Calvary Baptist Church has outgrown its present structure. Land has been purchased in the hope that eventually Calvary's ministry may be carried on under a new roof!

   Cavalry has been a source of fellowship and for many, many people, old and young alike. One family from the congregation has gone into the pastorate, six people have gone into the mission field, and at least seven youth have gone on to Bible school.

   "... Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together ... but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24, 25) Submitted by Lynn Wilson with Fred Mittan

First Congregational Church -- Wahoo, Nebr.

   The First Congregational Church of Wahoo was organized May 28, 1871 in a school house located in Eldred, Nebraska, a community located about where the Wahoo Airport is now. The Reverend J.E. Heaton, who had established churches throughout the Mid-west, presided at the organization meeting. The Reverend William Giddings was selected as the first pastor. He conducted services in Eldred and in a school house in Wahoo also. At the time the County Seat was being determined, both Eldred and Wahoo were contenders. The first members to join the church were: Mrs. Burr, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Wells, Mrs. Barton and Mr. A. Clark.

   Mr. Giddings just stayed the first summer. After he left, the Reverend J.B. Chase took over. The church records show that he was paid the sum of $50 for his first year and went to $75 for his second year. It was also noted that he "boarded around." When Wahoo became the County seat for Saunders County, the Eldred church united with the Wahoo church and was served by the Reverend J.T. Clark. It is interesting to note that while still meeting in the school house, the Congregation entertained the Lincoln Association for "the yearly conference." Among the committees named were "housing for the delegates and barns for the horses."

   The Rev. W.B. Atkinson served from 1875-1876. During this time, land was purchased at 5th and Cherry, now Beech, for a building site. The Rev. John Grey took over in 1876 to 1882. A little church was built and the church minute books tell that after the morning services the "ladies of the church" were invited in to view the interior of the building. The

page 136

Rev. Edwin C. Webber took over in 1882 and decided that the town was moving north. Lots were purchased at 8th and Linden. The edifice was moved to that location and enlarged by 14 feet and a basement was added. 1886 saw a very prosperous time in the church. Rev. A.A. Cressman served and the church added 86 persons as members and a parsonage was built at 12th and Elm streets. From 1889 to 1903, Rev. J.B. Stocking occupied the pulpit. He wrote the history for the 30th anniversary in 1901. The gala affair lasted three days and was climaxed by a seven course banquet.

   In 1905, Audley Heather, the silver tongued orator, preached to packed houses every Sunday and was very popular in town until it was discovered that he was not a minister at all, but was using this guise to hide from the law. Rumor has it that he ran off with a member of the congregation. Dr. H.H. Bross served from 1906 to 1913. During this time, in Febr. 1908, the church was practically destroyed by fire. The cornerstone on the rebuilt church contains a sealed tin box with, among other things, a Bible, some documents and history plus copies of the local newspapers, the Wasp and the Democrat. Mr. Jacob Ort was the architect for the rebuilt church and the present parsonage. Mr. S.P. Walstrom was the contractor. The church cost $4195 and the personage cost $2,582.50. $2000 had been alloted for the parsonage until it was decided to add indoor plumbing.

   The church had two ministers leave to do mission work. These were both ordained in the church. Rev. William Kline, ordained in 1913, went to London, England. In 1914, the Rev Azel Martin was ordained, and later went to the mission fold in India. Through the next few years, the church was served by the Reverends O.P. Solandt, N.H. Packard, Dr. C.H. Rogers, Alex Cutler and Warren Morse. Several left because of ill health and the pulpit committee were told to look for a young and vigorous man. They found Rev. Walter C. Rundin. This man stayed with the church for 36 years.

   In 1945, Rogers Manners chose his home church for his ordination. This was a joyous occasion for all. Many of our members have held state offices. Some of them are Rev. Rundin, Roger Manners, Warren Johnson, Mrs. Joe Berggren, Mrs. Ira Thompson and D.R. Cash. In 1950, the church was remodeled and up-dated. In 1962-1966, Rev. Royce Buchtel served and the Good Memorial Library was added to the church. The Rev. Theodore Dillow, who was President of John F. Kennedy College in Wahoo, served the church for 2 years. Rev. W.D. Anderson served during our 100th Anniv.

   At the present time in 1983, the Congregational church is served by the Rev. Max Foster. He has brought new life to the congregation, renewed the Sunday School, and has filled us all with renewed hope for a strong and healthy Congregational Church in Wahoo, Nebraska.

   The First Presbyterian Church of Wahoo was organized on January 27, 1874, by N.C. Robinson, State Missionary of Nebraska in company with Rev. William Fletcher, who was our first acting minister.

   On account of inclement weather only seven persons were present although sixteen names appeared on the original petition. The charter members are as follows: Mrs. M.A. Cemer, J.W. Pruyn and Wife, Joseph Ford and Wife, Mrs. Thomas, Prof. H.N. Rogers and Wife, Miss Mair, Lizzie Dech, William Dech and Wife, Mrs. Sarah Bissell, and Jacob Wickard and Wife.

   The Marietta church was the first Presbyterian church to be organized in Saunders County and the Wahoo Church as second. These two churches were served by the same minister up to 1883. In the year 1913 the Ladies Aid of the church built and paid for the manse at a cost of $2000.00. In 1915 we purchased the church building of the Covenanters on the Courthouse hill, moved it to the corner of 7th and Linden and remodeled and rebuilt it during the Pastorate of Rev. J. Wallace Larkin.

   The sanctuary of our new church was built in 1962 and dedicated on May 12, 1963. The educational unit was dedicated February 4, 1968. Recent improvements include a new 16 rank Schantz Pipe organ installed in 1977 and the hard surfacing of the parking lot in 1981.

First Presbyterian Church -- Wahoo, Nebr.

   Donald Thomas Steward from our congregation was ordained September 23, 1960, at the First Presbyterian Church, Wahoo, Nebraska by Omaha Prebytery, United Presbyterian Church, U.S.A. He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Hastings College. He spent one year at Princeton Theological Seminary, two years at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and received his Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1960-61. He has served the churches of Hebron and Deshler in Nebraska from 1961-63, the church of Superior, Nebraska from 1963 to 1972, the First Presbyterian Church of Geneseo, Illinois and is at present serving as a marriage counselor in a medical clinic in Geneseo, Illinois.

   In addition to the official boards of the church -- Session, Trustees and Deacons -- other organizations have served effectively through the years.

   Women have contributed consistently and effectively to the growth and varied achievements of the church. The Missionary Society -- very active in the early history of the congregation -- and the Ladies Aid have been succeeded by the United Presbyterian Women's Association. The Westminister Guild, organized in June of 1932 for younger women unable to attend daytime meetings, works in conjunction with its sister organization. One tradition, observed for over fifty years, was the St. Patrick's Day bazaar, dinner and musical program.

   An effective Sunday School program with dedicated and efficient teachers has always been maintained. Youth Fellowship activities striving for purposeful living and spiritual development of young people have also had a part in the life of the church. The Congregation has sponsored the Boy Scout Program for 18 years and the Cub Scouts for nine years. The Mariners, organized December 12, 1955, are a group of married couples interested in the general welfare of the church; this organization was instrumental in the building of the new sanctuary, and educational unit. Good music has been provided throughout the years by dedicated choirs, choir directors and organists.

   The 50th anniversary of our church was observed on January 25-27, 1924, the 75th anniversary on January 30, 1949, and the 100th anniversary on January 27, and April 27-28, 1974.

   Over one hundred years have passed since the organization of our church. The able leadership of our ministers, the faith, love, labor, sacrifice and money of the members and friends have contributed to the strength and growth of our church. It is fitting that we offer a prayer of sincere thanks for the heritage that is ours today through their vision, purposeful lives and their steadfast faith in Almighty God.

   The Strength of the church in the future depends upon the loyalty of its members as they assume the tasks of the church and keep alive in their hearts the desire to live in the Spirit of Christ!

   Following are the names and years of service of the Pastors of this church: 1874-1875 William Fletcher, 1876-1879 James L. Amlong, 1879-1881 Edward L. Dodder, 1881-1882 James L. Amlong, 1882-1883 Edward Warren, 1883-1885 Edward L. Dodder, 1886-1888 Henry M. Goodell, 1888-1895 Samuel R. Bellville, 1896-1897 John K. Sawyers, 1898-1898 R.F. Graham, 1899-1899 James M. Campbell, 1900-1901 Richard T. Bell, 1902-1904 Sherrod W. Griffen, 1904-1906 Joseph B. Cherry, 1907-1908 John W. Morgan, 1908-1911 Emory E. Zimmerman, 1912-1912 C.W. Fye, 1912-1913 Walter N. Halsey, 1913-1916 J. Wallace Larkin, 1916-1919 Edwin B. Whitney, 1919-1964 Elbert J. Nickerson (Became Pastor Emeritus in 1968), 1964-1972 Walter G. Millett, 1972-1973 Theodore E. Dillow (Interim Pastor), 1973- Burton A. Knudsen.

   Elder/Trustees serving on the Session during 1982: Don Bern, Laurel Cook, Dr. Ivan French, June Novy, Lyle Torrens, Dr. Kenneth Govaerts, Jeffrey Greenwald, Adrian Poeschl, George Welton, Kathleen Vrana, Lurine Little, Gayle Veach, Jared Ketner, Janet Lindley, Glenn Mumm.

   Deacons serving on the Board of Deacons during 1982: Adell Sudik, Mark Olson, Phyllis Stewart, Don Clark, Rosella Snelling, Viola Thorston, Owen Jensen, Irene Odell, Ron Biggerstaff.

   The foundation of the Methodist work in the north half of Saunders County and Wahoo had its start with the organization of the Platte Valley Circuit, extending from Fremont to Columbus. In 1858 two years after the founding of Fremont, Rev. Jacob Adriance was sent to take charge of this Platte Valley Circuit. To the south of his labours lay a territory mostly claimed by the Pawnee and Otoe Indians. Near the town of Leshara, where a Methodist Class once flourished was a large and prominent Indian village. Other Indian towns and camping places were located at Yutan, Ithaca, Wahoo, Swedeburg and Estina. In practically every one of these places Methodist Classes were organized as soon as immigrants came in and built homes for themselves and established schools and religious classes.

   It is interesting here to note that a pioneer Methodist Minister, Rev. Thomas Alexander was living in the county during these early days, and, while not a regular appointed minister in the county, he was active in doing religious work among the first

page 137