BUFFALO PRAIRIE CHURCH

 

Among the first organizers of the Buffalo Prairie church, of Duncan, Jesse L. Adams took an active interest. He was born in Bucks county, Ohio, March 23, 1808. He subsequently moved from that state to Madison county, Indiana, and settled in the wilderness. In 1822 he went to visit his older brother, who was then living on the Wabash river.

While sojourning he united with the Church of Jesus Christ, and was called to the office of elder in 1835. In 1835 he moved to Mercer county, settling near Glancey's lake, in Eliza township. He being enthusiastic in the faith, immediately began the agitation of establishi g a church, and accordingly in 1862, the church was organized with eleven members. Winthrop Holmes was called to the eldership.

The first meetings were held at the houses of the different members. The services were conducted by Elder J. W. Gillon, J. H. Gurley, and W. Holmes. The latter named dying in 1865, his place was filled by J. F. Adams. Up to 1865 the church had a membership of twenty-seven.

In 1868 a revival took place, at which time 103 were added to the church, mating in all 130 members, and they immediately set about building a church by subscription. This was dedicated September 5, 1868. In the fall of 1873 J. F. Adams resigned the eldership of the church, and David S. Holmes was called ; he resigned in 1875, and E. F. Bryant was called. Under his administration the church reached 256 members.

 

Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois

History of Mercer & Henderson Counties

 

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Illinois Ancestors