"One generation shall laud they works to another, and shall declare thy might acts." Psalm 145:4

The more things change, the more they remain the same.

As you page through this book, you will undoubtedly notice how much things have changed. Styles of clothing, the assimilation from a basically German community into the mainstream of American life, patterns and practices in worship, all speak of change. And yet, those who were here before us were much like us. Their concerns and goals were the same: to make a living, to raise a family, to live with the Lord. It is that last item that we are celebrating in our centennial year. It is, of course, the most important thing: to live with the Lord. As we look back, and remember those who first gathered around Word and Sacrament in this place, we praise God and give Him the glory, for it is our gracious God who gathers his people into congregations and condescends to dwell among us in grace and mercy. As we look forward to the generations that shall come after us, it is with the prayer that God will condescend to dwell with them in grace and mercy and lead them to give Him the praise and glory. The common thread that binds us together with those who have gone before us, and those who will follow after us is not, after all, our common humanity or the particular place in the creation that we inhabit. The common thread that binds us together is the marvelous, eternal grace of God, in Christ. "100 Years of God’s Grace" is the theme for our centennial, because those words so simply and clearly remind us what it is we have to celebrate.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Ault

The beginning of this congregation dates back to the early seventies of the former century.

Most of the charter members were poor and needy. They had settled in a primeval forest, and it required good courage and a strong faith to live with their families in such forbidding surroundings.

There were no real country roads, only the so called logging roads and it often was an arduous task to procure the mere necessities of life.

Only a very few pastors of our Synod were then located in the northern part of the State. But our Synod has been diligent in doing mission work from its very beginning and has sought to take care of the settlers. Serving them with Word and Sacrament, traveling missionaries gathered them into congregations which grew and increased until, in the course of time, they were able to call their own pastor.

The first attempt to bring a congregation into existence here was made about the year 1873. Rev. W. C. Schilling, then located at Stevens Point, came to Spencer on one of his mission trips. He was the first Lutheran pastor to serve the new settlers.

The first services were held in a log school house on the Naatz farm, two miles north-west of Spencer.

Wm. Naatz family, taken in 1900. L to R: Clara, Anna, Bertha, John.

Mrs. Naatz, Linda, Wm. Naatz, and Emil

It was Rev. Schilling whose efforts led to the founding of the congregation. The organization took place October 27, 1878, the minutes revealing this date, and speak of the existence of the congregation. For that reason we consider Rev. Schilling as the founder of the congregation.

In the first congregational meeting Rev. H. Erck of the town of Wien, Marathon County, Wis., was unanimously called as pastor. He was asked to hold a preaching service every fifth Sunday, and to give the necessary instructions in Christian doctrine to the children and young people. The congregation didn’t decide what it would give for the bodily support of the pastor, but declared themselves ready to support him according to their means.

According to the minutes of December 21, 1878, Carl Stoltnow, Herman Boeder, and Gustave Matter were elected as deacons of the congregation. August Bruesewitz was the first secretary, and Rev. H. Erck acted as the first chairman.

Rev. H. Erck 1878 – 1880

The records available to us are not as clear as might be desired, but we believe the following to be the CHARTER MEMBERS:

The constitution of the congregation was adopted at a meeting held February 13, 1879. February 16, 1879, the congregation resolved to buy a building place. Mr. Frank Mellenthin lent St. John’s the money for two months with two dollars interest. Pastor’s salary was set at $50. August Bruesewitz and Franz Frankfurth were to conduct services when the pastor was not present.

In a meeting held September 5, 1880, Rev. Schuette was called jointly by St. John’s and the Lutherans that lived in Spencer, to the Village of Spencer. It was decided to pay him a yearly sum of $150, also half of the house rent; and to pay him 25 cents a month for each child as school money.

December 25, 1880, it was resolved to build a church. In the course of the winter, various members brought the necessary logs to the saw mill at Romeo, where they were sawed into lumber.

The first St. John’s Spencer – 1881

The first church, a frame building, was built in 1881, by a Mr. Parker, for the sum of $200.00 for his labor. The building site was the one on which the present church stands. The land was acquired from Mr. Frank Parrett.

On May 21, 1881, Trinity Congregation, Town of Spencer, was organized. The two congregations formed one parish and were served by one pastor. Rev. J. Schuette served from September 5, 1880 to 1884.

During the short vacancy, Pastor Buenger was called as a traveling pastor to serve our parish along with twelve others.

On April 14, 1884, Rev. F. Seibrant was called. He served well and efficiently until July 1893, when he accepted a call to trinity congregation at Merrill.

Rev. J. Todt 1893 – 1899

A call was then issued to and accepted by Rev. J. Todt. He labored faithfully in church and school for six years, then accepted a call to Trinity congregation at Manistee, Michigan.

In 1899, Rev. A.F. Imm was called to succeed Rev. J. Todt. He served both congregations here and at Spencer until 1909, when he left the parish.

Rev. A.F. Imm 1899 – 1909

A call was then sent to and accepted by Rev. K.E.J. Schmidt, pastor of St. Paul’s Congregation of Stevens Point. During his pastorate the new church was built by Mr. Krasin, in 1910. Built on the old church site, the new building was of brick veneer, 32 x 56 feet, including the chancel, 72 feet long. The members of the building committee were:

H. Manthe A. Bruesewitz

F. Neumann A. Voelker

C. Andre A. Schulz

Pastor Schmidt

Rev. K. E. J. Schmidt 1909 - 1912

During the pastorate of Rev. Schmidt, St. John’s Congregation resolved to terminate its union with Trinity as one parish and to call its own pastor.

The new church was dedicated to the service of God in January, 1911.

St. John’s Church, dedicated in 1910.

On April 12, 1912, two acres of land were purchased from Mrs. Parrett. During a special meeting on June 2, 1912, it was resolved that the contract for the building of the school and parsonage, with the exception of the basement, be awarded to Mr. Herman Schwantes, who submitted a bid of $2273. This contract included furnishing all material and also doing the frescoing. Both buildings, like the church are of brick veneer.

The basement of the parsonage was built by various members of the congregation. Those who came to work by hand or those who brought a team of horses for the excavation work received $1.00 and $2.00 a day respectively, also $1.00 for a load of stone.

Rev. A.F. Ziehlsdorff, located in Swanville, Minnesota, accepted the call to come to St. John’s and was installed by Rev. Schmidt, Nov. 4, 1912. The call included $500 salary, free heat, free dwelling and 3 acres of land. As the congregation was not able to support a teacher, Rev. Ziehlsdorff taught school 8 or 9 months a year. A barn was built for the pastor in 1913.

On February 16, 1913, the members of St. John’s voted to join the Missouri Synod. In June of the same year, William Marten was the first member to be elected as a delegate to a synodical convention. In 1916 the synod was divided into two districts.

Rev. A. F. Ziehlsdorff 1912 - 1930

In 1918 flags were purchased for the church and the schoolhouse, the schoolhouse flag was to be put on a pole.

In 1919 it was resolved to have English services once a month.

In 1920 an eleven hundred pound bell was bought from Henry Struckstead of St. Louis, the church was painted, and other improvements were made at a cost of $1500. An alter, pulpit, and baptismal font were purchased for $570 and painted by Kavert and Son.

In 1921 it was resolved to buy the piece of land south of the church property for $100. Each member was to pay $2.00 towards it and the fence.

A Hinners pipe organ was purchased in 1923 for $2200.

The Pipe Organ purchased in 1923

On September 9, 1928, St. John’s celebrated its 50th Anniversary, glorifying God with praises and thanksgiving. Three festival services were held. Rev. Schmidt, Rev. Herman Daib, President of North Wisconsin District, and Rev. Todt delivered the sermons.

Rev. Ziehlsdorff continued to serve the congregation until September, 1930, when he resigned. In the fall of 1931 he accepted a call to Charlotte Hall, Maryland.

During the brief vacancy, Rev. Arthur Staple of Spencer served the parish. After Rev. Ziehlsdorff resigned, St. John’s extended a call to Rev. H.C. Hinz, pastor of St. John’s Congregation, Emerald, Wisconsin. He accepted the call and was installed by Rev. Staple, November 23, 1930.

Rev. H. C. Hinz 1930 – 1950

From January 1931 to 1942, services were held alternately in English and German; from 1942 to 1945, German services were limited to one sermon a month, and in 1945, it was resolved to discontinue the German entirely.

Week-day school was discontinued when Pastor Hinz was called to serve the congregation. Confirmation instruction was to be held on Saturday forenoons, and after public schools closed, each week-day until time of Confirmation. It was at this time (1931), that the German instruction was discontinued and the confirmation instructions were given only in English.

In 1931 electricity was installed in the church, school and parsonage.

In 1932 lightning caused a fire which entirely consumed the altar. Considerable damage was done by smoke and necessitated the renovation and redecoration of the church, during which time services were held in the Spencer church.

In 1937 the church basement was deepened and fitted for meetings of the Ladies’ Aid and Young People’s Society. Most of the work was done by the members themselves.

On September 11, 1938, the congregation celebrated its 60th Anniversary services, also the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Saxony immigration.

Services were held in the forenoon, afternoon and evening with the former pastors Rev. A. F. Imm, Rev. Karl Schmidt preaching, also Rev. Herman Daib, president of the North Wisconsin District.

Charles Neumann was voted to be the delegate to the district synodical convention in April of 1939.

A special collection was taken in May 1941 for the Army and Navy commission for the benefit of the boys in training camps who hadn’t had the opportunity of receiving the Word of God otherwise.

During the same year it was decided to reshingle the roof of the school house. The work was to be volunteered and the trustees attained the needed supplies.

In April of 1945, authorization was given to the President and Secretary to have the church seal changed as a direct result of St. John’s church voting to become incorporated. The purchase of a new furnace stoker and blower was also made. Other improvements were approved on the church properties, one being a parking lot on the south side of the church road.

1947 was the centennial year for the Missouri Synod. St. John’s held a house to house collection. This drive resulted in the collection of $92. The celebration services were scheduled for April 27th. Gifts of money were given to the Bible Society and the Lutheran Hour.

This year also saw the members of St. John’s decide to buy the new Lutheran Hymnais. Each member was to pay for his own. The Lutheran Laymans League of St. John’s was granted the privilege of organization at this time.

In July 1949, lightning again struck the steeple of the church so it had to be taken down just above the belfry. The church was also reshingled and the interior walls were covered with composition wood. The total cost of this work was in excess of $3000, of which the sum of $1500 was received from insurance.

On July 9, 1950, at the voters meeting, Rev. Hinz made the announcement that he intended to retire from the active ministry because of old age and failing memory. He had served the congregation faithfully with Word and Sacrament for twenty years. His resignation was to take effect the last of August.

Pastor Hinz preached his farewell sermon the first Sunday in September, 1950. The text was Luke 11:28. "Blessed are they that hear the Word of God and keep it.’~ The theme was: How blessed you will be if you continue to hear and keep God’s Word.

A farewell service and social gathering was given for him with Rev. Otto Hoffman, Colby, and Rev. Randolph Mueller, Spencer, speaking. On September 15, 1950, Rev. Hinz and his daughter, Lydia, moved to Neillsville to make their future home. Mrs. Hinz had passed away in 1944.

During the vacancy following the departure of Rev. Hinz, considerable work was done in remodeling the parsonage. A new furnace was installed and a bathroom built. The kitchen was remodeled and most of the rooms redecorated with linoleum, rugs and carpeting put in three rooms. A new water system was also added.

A barn that had been used to house the former pastor’s horse, cows, chickens, and car was sold and moved away. In its place a new garage was built.

After Pastor Hinz left, St. John’s was now in need of a pastor. The congregation prayerfully sent out several calls without success. A call was now sent in for a seminary graduate, with Rev. Richard Scholz of Springfield, Illinois, accepting the call. Pastor Scholz arrived with his wife and family and was installed on June 17, 1951, by Rev. Mueller of Spencer, Wis.

Rev. Richard Scholz 1951 – 1954

After the installation services an open house was held at the parsonage, and a reception was given in honor of the pastor and his family in the church. As St. John’s again had its own pastor, the church once more began to grow and flourish.

The North Wisconsin District held its convention at Clintonville in 1952. Gust Frank served as delegate from our congregation. At this time the North Wisconsin District has a membership of 54,000 and the membership of the Missouri Synod was 1.8 million. The average district communion attendance was 2.75 times per year.

While Rev. Scholz was pastor a number of additions were made to the church properties. Small tables and chairs were purchased for use by the Sunday School children, and hymnal racks were placed on the back of the benches.

1953 was a year of joy for this church. St. John’s celebrated 75 years of existence through services of worship. Pastor Richard Scholz used his talents in producing a "75^th Annivsary Commemoration Booklet" and leading our worship services.

Pastor Mueller served as vacancy pastor as four calls were sent with three being returned. The fourth call was accepted by Pastor Saremba of Warren, Wisconsin. He was installed January 9, 1955 with "Ye are My Hands" as his sermon theme.

Rev. August Saremba 1955 – 1959

On May 1, 1955 the church services were scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m. A porch was also added to the parsonage.

In 1956 Rev. Wilbur Neumann, the first son of the congregation to become a minister, preached his first sermon at his home congregation.

Wilbur Neumann

Several improvements and additions were made to the church property in 1957. A seven foot electric cross was ordered in December, and installed. New doors and windows were also purchased. The pipes for the organ were painted gray, and the school house and garage were given a coat of new paint. The north windows behind the altar were bricked in when it became apparent that numerous repairs would have to be made in the chancel area. A pancake supper was held with benefits to go for a power mower for the cemetery committee. It is interesting to note that our congregation was the highest district contributor for the first quarter in 1957.

Pastor Saremba passed away on September 25^th, 1958. Four calls were sent before Pastor Milford Yonker accepted a temporary call. He was installed September 1, 1959.

Rev. Milford Yonker 1959 – 1968

A new well was drilled at a cost of $717, and blueprints were drawn up for a parish hail and narthex.

Many discussions were held, and in 1960 a building committee was named. This group consisted of Arnold Seefeldt, Arvin Podevels, De!bert Rinehart, George Oeirich, and Lester Bruesewitz. Wilbur Wilmer was awarded the building contract at a cost of $21,453, the heating went to Mauer’s of Marshfield for $1640, and Abbotsford Hardware did the plumbing and wiring at a cost of $2275. It was decided that one half of the estimate of $25,368 be raised before the building would be started. As has been apparent in the past, the congregation soon had the amount raised. The new addition was completed in 1961.

St. John’s new addition dedicated in 1961.

While Pastor Yonker was serving St. John’s, he suffered the loss of both his daughter and his wife. A call was given to Pastor Yonker by St. John’s of Riplinger on September 18, 1963. He accepted, and a cooperative arrangement was made between the two parishes where by Pastor Yonker would serve both churches. The Riplinger congregation shares in the cost of the pastor’s salary, car allowances and other pastoral expenses. This satisfactory arrangement continues to the present time.

The balcony was sanded and varnished in 1964.

The narthex was painted and a church sign was placed along the highway to announce the time of the church services.

In June of 1965 the Concordia Welfare Plan for ministers was voted on and accepted by the congregation, and in 1966 individual communion cups were first used.

A new organ was dedicated on May 7, 1967, and storm windows were purchased for the west side of the church,

During late 1967 and 1968 there were special meetings with the Riplinger congregation and also with the district President to deal with a very difficult problem. Pastor Yonker left the congregation September 1, 1968. Pastor Ruhbush served as interim pastor with Pastor Goetz leading the Sunday services until July 1969, when Pastor David Ault was installed.

Rev. David J. Ault 1969 –

In 1970 the church ceiling was insulated and the windows between the church and parish hall were closed off. A mail box for the members was placed in the narthex as a memorial. Communion cards were implemented as a means of replacing the personnal communion announcement. An office for the pastor was also built in the south west corner of the basement.

A major issue of the Synod in 1970 was whether or not to accept fellowship with the ALC. In July our congregation voted to accept the option of having altar and pulpit fellowship.

Loudspeakers were purchased for the church in 1971 and also a church directory was made. St. John’s voted to change the voting age of male members to 18 in all church meetings. The congregation’s second son Richard Klein was ordained July 11, 1971 with former vacancy Pastor Krueger officiating.

Richard Klein ordained by Pastor Krueger

In 1973 another major synod option of woman suffrage was brought before the voters and was rejected. The voters also approved a standing resolution to borrow money to meet our mission pledges should our offerings fall short. More church repairs were also made. Tile was added to the church basement floor, the church pews were refinished, and trim on the church and parsonage was painted.

In 1975 the church windows were given a stained glass effect by covering them with a plastic covering. A memorial gift of a copier and mimeograph machine was received by the church. A new door was purchased for the parish hall.

A major remodeling of the chancel area was undertaken in 1976. Memorial contributions furnished the chancel area at no cost to the congregation. April 18, 1976, the dedication service was held. Memorials throughout the years have provided St. John’s with many needed items which the church would not have been able to buy or would have taken a number of years to get.

At the 1977 annual meeting it was decided to remodel the upstairs of the parsonage. A building committee of Ron Seefeld, Norbert Schultz, and Art Kopp were asked to obtain bids and report on the progress of the remodeling. New windows were placed in all the upstairs rooms. Paneling, ceiling tile, and carpet were installed throuqhout. The job was completed in February of 1978. Women’s suffrage was accepted by the voters in April, 1978.

In preparation for the hundred year celebration St. John’s has voted to make a few improvements in the church facilities. The church basement floor has been painted along with the walls in the parish hall. A new door has been placed on the church entrance, and carpet was installed in the balcony.

The Lord has mercifully blessed our congregation during the past 100 years. From its beginning of 12 voters, it has increased to a present 239 voters. Our communicant membership totals 269, and we have 356 baptized souls. The history of St. John’s has been varied and interesting over the past one hundred years. As we begin our second century, we look forward to serving our Lord and our fellow man.

The children of St. John’s enroll in Sunday School soon after their third birthday or as soon as they will sit still and enjoy the Bible stories. They attend until they are confirmed. Before the parish hall was built the younger classes met in the little brick school. They then graduated to the church building where the older classes met. Now the upper grade classes meet in the church basement and the younger classes meet in the parish hall.

Our Christmas program practice always starts the first Sunday following Thanksgiving and ends with the last Sunday before Christmas. This practice is followed by a party given for the children. The program has been held on Christmas Eve since 1882. After the program the children are given a sack of candy. The church members donate. money for the candy and the teachers pack the bags.

The children have had the opportunity to sing at a nursing home and to put on their Christmas program for the elderly. The children receive many smiles or even a squeeze of the hand to show how much the older people enjoy it. It is also a practice that the children sing in church each month on the fourth Sunday.

The Sunday School has taken part in many mission projects. Money from the last Sunday of each month is used for mission work. In February of each year, money is collected on the Sunday before Valentines Day. This is used for Hearts For Jesus, another mission project. The money has been used to help a blind school and to help build a church in New Guinea. The children also brought articles to make up some Klenli-Kits to send to World Relief.

Sunday School teachers have many anxious, surprising, and rewarding moments. Usually the teachers are sure the Christmas program will be a flop, only to find that the children surprise them by doing their very best.

A teacher’s time is interlaced with humorous things also. One Christmas program there were angels looking at a cross. One little boy had an itch, and he ended up with his wings tipped to the side and his garland over one eye, but he still looked up at the cross.

There was the teacher who was teaching the word love. One of her little boys raised his hand to say, "I know what it is ‘cause all the girls in school love me." One Easter morning during a film strip, one little girl surprised us. Most of the children would bring along something small to chew on, but this little girl opened her purse to pull out a dill pickle and ate it.

A Sunday School can only be successful through the efforts of many dedicated persons who serve Christ by teaching His little children. St. John’s has been blessed with many workers who have given their time and talents to the Lord. It would be extremely hard to name all who have served as teachers and very easy to accidentally omit someone’s name. St. John’s thanks all who have served in the past and who now serve.

SUNDAY SCHOOL 1977 – 1978

Row 1: Terry Hopfensperger, Stephanie Marden, Bryan Hopfensperger, Jenni Martin, Kimberly Ault, Craig Berger.

Row 2: Michelle Marden, Carrie Seefeldt, Tami Hopfensperger, Troy Luepke, Neil Neumann, Jeana Mellenthin, Denise Neumann, Philann Neumann, Wendy Hopfensperger, Tricia Kilty, Valarie Jacobitz.

Row 3: Pete Mellenthin, (superintendent), Virjean Mellenthin (teacher), Tim Gallion, Cory Seefeldt, Patrick Kilty, Janell Schwantes, Tim Ault, Dale Berger, Renee Mellenthin, Vickie Jacobitz, Kathryn Sundell.

Row 4: Penny Miller, Jeffery Hanson, April Neumann, Denise Marden, John Ault, Chad Neumann, Richard Freezy, Shane Vaughn, Jacqueline Hebert, Michelle Oelrich, Mrs. Alvera Klein (teacher).

Row 5: Mrs. Dianne Vaughan (teacher), DeAnn Hanson, Steve Murphy, Jeffrey Day, Wade Vaughan, Terry Gallion, Todd Seefeldt, Steve Gallion, Sara Stroetz, Mrs. Irene Toltzman (teacher), Mrs. Leona Wachholz (teacher).

St John’s Lutheran Walther League was organized in 1935, however very little was recorded of their early activities. During the vacancy of 1968, the Walther League was inactive. Then in September an organizational meeting was held and the young people from St. John’s, Riplinger, and St. John’s, Spencer merged.

In 1970 the youth group changed their name to the present name, St. John’s Youth Fellowship since they no longer belonged to the International Walther League. A new constitution was drawn up and signed by all members.

The first winter retreat was held in February of 1969 at Greystone Lodge in Rhinelander. Beginning in 1970 and continuing until 1973 the summer retreats were held at Lester Bruesewitz’s cottage. Since 1975, both the summer and winter retreats are held at Alma Ault’s cottage at Crivitz. Prior to each retreat a theme for Bible study is decided and we spend 2 1/2 to 3 hours each day studying the Bible and having devotions. A prayer vigil is also held and each person prays by himself for two % hour sessions. This continues for 24 hours and is climaxed by a communion service. Every member shares the cooking and clean-up chores.

For several years the group distributed Christmas seals and collected the money for the Wheatridge Foundation. During the Christmas season the youth group goes caroling to the homes of the elderly and shut-ins. For several years we also decorated the trees in both churches.

We send birthday cards to members of our congregation who are sixty-five years and older. We initiate the new confirmands, go on hayrides, bowl, hold bake sales, serve a chili dinner, and various other activities. Although we have a lot of fun, the main purpose of our meetings twice a month and our two retreats annually is to grow spiritually through Christian fellowship and studying God’s Word.

ST. JOHN’S YOUTH FELLOWSHIP

Row 1: Cindy Seefeld, Dawn Neumann, Shelly Neumann, Joy Miller, Lynette Wachholz, Lori Stoetz

Row 2: Paula Neumann, Terry Marten, Craig Neumann, Wayne Vaughan, Greg Seefeld, Dean Toltzman, Jesse Miller

Players at Stratford Circuit Volleyball games. Who won?

Initiation into the youth group

Janell, Cindy, and Penny practicing for Confirmation night.

Practicing? Lynette, Steve, Doug, and Jeff.

Bible Study at Retreat

Shoestring Race

The St. John’s Ladies Aid Society was founded in 1900 with 20 charter members. There were no written minutes until 1925. These were written in German and will be found in this book.

The function of the ladies aid was to provide an opportunity for the ladies of the congregation to have a day of fellowship, Bible study, and provide services to the church when needed. Throughout the years they have done a great many tasks and contributed to the welfare of this congregation. They have purchased many items such as Bibles, Sunday School hymnals, hymnals for the congregation, Bible Dictionaries, Good News for Shut-ins, all the kitchen appliances (of which most have been replaced at least one time) and utensils; gave toward the organ and building funds, repairs, remodeling and decorating the parsonage a number of times, and kept up the cleaning and repair of the school in cooperation with the congregation. It is of interest to note that the altar, pulpit and baptismal font were purchased by the Aid in 1910.

These were done with monthly dues, projects, donations and memorials from deceased member’s families. Projects were dinners, bazaars, bake sales, cook a book sales, vanilla, spices, cards, wrapping paper, and napkin sales to mention a few. With proceeds from these, various mission and charitable organizations were sponsored along with home uses. The Lutheran Hour Sponsorship plan was adopted in 1961. The Concordia Seminary Guild was supported starting in 1963. The Lutheran Medical Mission Society was helped from 1961 - 1976. The providing of Portals of Prayer free for member’s home devotion was begun in 1958. Then in 1976 it was extended to include some large print Portals of Prayer. Altar flowers are funded by the Aid for special services and on communion Sunday. This has been done since 1955. The children in VBS have been given ice cream for the last day’s treat since 1954. We have been providing Christmas gifts to servicemen and shut-ins since 1956.

The circuit pastor’s monthly study club is served lunch when it meets here. Members celebrating their Golden Wedding Anniversary are given devotional books. Pastor’s vestment gowns have been given to the two sons of the congregation, Wilbur Neumann and Richard Klein. Richard was given stoles at his ordination celebrated here in 1971.

Ladies Aid members in 1900 - 1910

Working for the Pancake Supper - 1977

There are also annual functions such as serving the mission fest dinners or lunches. There is a Christmas party when visitors and/or spouses are asked to celebrate with us. A gift of money is sent to a charity such as Bethesda Lutheran Home, American Bible Society, Lutheran Children’s Friend’s Society or The Lutheran Hour. A clothing drive is also held in the fall and occasionally a quilting day or two is held for World Relief. This is done in cooperation with the LWML group. Last year 15 quilts and 13 layettes were sent.

Other services rendered are lunches or dinners served for ordination, dedications, funerals, installation receptions and any other special occasions. Gifts of food, money, and clothes were sent to Europe during the war period. Relief was given to a family who were victims of a tornado.

Activities that we have had include trips to Bethesda Lutheran Home in Watertown, Wisconsin, Northern Colony near Eau Claire, participation in a few World Day of Prayer services held in local churches. We also had the pleasure of veiwing slides of Canada where Pastor Klein has been serving. A display of tracts and literature put out by the American Bible Society was put out at the Spencer Centennial and is now kept in the narthex for anyone who desires to help themselves.

Notes of interest are several. The first meetings were, of course, in the German language until 1933.

Then a mixture of German and English until 1936. The meetings were held in homes and at the church, whichever the hostess preferred until sometime between 1936 - 1940. Sugar and coffe ration cards were sent for in 1942. Two pounds per month of sugar was our quota. Prices set for dinners served were subject to some inflation as the rest of our economy has been. In 1941 25 cents and 15 cents, in 1961 25 cents per plate if the food was supplied, if not the price was $1.50. It increased to $2.50 in 1970 and to $3.00 in 1976. One Mother-Daughter banquet was held in 1963. A father-son banquet was held the next year. The constitution was revised, in 1960 and 1976. One suprise baby shower was given for a pastor and his wife, in 1974. The fortieth anniversary was celebrated with a service and then a chicken dinner was served. All members were asked to donate and the Aid prepared and served the meal. At the 75th anniversary they had 2 special meals and sold anniversary plates. The Aid usually had some kind of welcoming shower or gift for a newly arriving pastor and his family. Pastor Ruhbusch served as a vacancy pastor 1968 - 1969 serving also the Aid. The flower beds beside the church entrance until the new addition was built on in 1961 was the responsibility of the Aid. The Aid was part of a committee to take care of the landscaping around the new building.

As this interested person went through the records to prepare this report she was amazed at what has been accomplished through this organization. I hope every person who has ever wondered what purpose or gain can be accomplished in being a member will read very carefully. It wasn’t just one group that accomplished all this but several people over many years.

It’s not to be a glory seeking group but to serve. And that is what the Aid has done. The purpose of going into some lenghth of the services rendered was not to brag but to be somewhat of a messenger to those who wonder how they can serve in their church. I feel it is quite apparent that our church would not be quite as blessed as it has been these 100 years had it not been for these many dedicated members of the Ladies Aid Society.

Ladies Aid of 1953

LADIES AID

Row 1: Mrs. Leota Schwantes, Mrs. Olaf (Mildred) Manthe, Mrs. Alvina Seefeld, Mrs. Augusta Justman, Mrs. Emil (Norman) Luepke, Mrs. Paul (Francis) Seefeld, (Vice-president)

Row 2: Mrs. Dave (Barb) Ault, Mrs. Robert (Esther) Stroetz, Mrs. Gerhardt (Isabelle) Klein, (treasurer), Mrs. Eugene (Arlene) Marten, Mrs. Virgil (Gloria) Seefeld, (secretary), Mrs. John (Pat) Miller Jr., (President), Mrs. Bernard (Doris) Krause, Mrs. Maynard (Elda) Neuman

Not pictured: Mrs. Ray Klein, Mrs. Lester Bruesewitz, Mrs. Gerald Schwantes, Mrs. Wilmer Hopfensperger, Mrs. Clarence Dean, Mrs. Gerald Neumann, Mrs. Wilbur Mellenthin, Mrs. Ron Seefeldt, Mrs. Ron Bruesewitz, Mrs. William Marten, Mrs. George Oelrich, Mrs. Dorothy Neumann, Mrs. Elsie Mellenthin, Mrs. Bertha Fischer

St. John’s LWML was organized September 25, 1951 under Rev. R. J. Scholz with 38 members. Mrs. Herman Neumann served as its first chairman. Off icial membership in Zone 14 and the International LWML was made in 1952. Mrs. R. J. Scholz served as first zone chairman.

The, first meetings were held every other month until 1957 when they were combined with the Ladies Aid. In 1969 under Pastor AuIt it was decided to have quarterly meetings.

Organizations in the zone host spring and fall rallies each year where business is conducted and speakers, often missionaries, are heard. St. John’s hosted the first spring rally in 1953; other rallies were held in 1956, 1962, and 1968 with Riplinger.

The main project of LWML has always been the Mite Box collections of which 75% is given to District mission projects and 25% is given to International mission projects.

St. John’s ladies of the LWML have sponsored many mission projects of their own:

1952 - Christmas gifts of socks and handkercheifs sent to boys at Wittenberg School.

1955 - Visit was made to the Veterans Hospital in Tomah; members purchased subscriptions for This Day magazines for the veterans.

1959 - Toys sent to Bethesda in Watertown, Wis.

1963 - Members wrote letters to wives of missionaries resulting in sending of bandages to the hospital in India and Sunday School materials and Portals of Prayer to the Philippines.

1966 - Collected items for the colony in Chippewa Falls and in 1968 toured the colony’s facilities and took along Sunday School materials, magazines and clothing.

1968 - Collected eye glasses, old watches, jewelry, and dented silver to send to "Eyes for the Needy".

LWML

Row 1: Mrs. Elsie Mellenthin, Mrs. Dorothy Neumann, Mrs. Alvina Seefeldt, Mrs. Maynard (Elda) Neumann, Mrs. Olaf (Mildred) Manthe, Mrs. David (Barb) Ault

Row 2: Mrs. Arnold (Muriel) Oelrich, Mrs. Arnold (Violet) Seefeldt, Mrs. Eugene (Arlene) Marten, Mrs. Gerald (Jane) Neumann, Mrs. Ron (Karen) Seefeldt, Mrs. Leota Schwantes, (Mission Hospice Chairman)

Row 3: Mrs. Ron (Eileen) Bruesewitz, (Chairman), Mrs. Frieda Hendrickson, Mrs. Emil (Norma) Luepke, (Christian Growth Chairman), Mrs. Gerhardt (Isabelle) Klein, Mrs. Herbert (Leona) Wachholz, Mrs. Ray (Marion) Klein

Row 4: Mrs. Bernard (Doris) Krause, Mrs. Delmar (Irene) Toltzman, Mrs. Donald (Karen) Hanson, Mrs. Paul (Francis) Seefeldt, Mrs. Lester (Delores) Brusewitz

Not Pictured: Mrs. Walter Fischer, Mrs. Clarence Dean, Mrs. Wilmer Hopfensperger, Mrs. John Neumann, Mrs. Gerald Schwantes, Mrs. George Oelrich, Mrs. George Krueger, Mrs. Floyd Hopfensperger, Mrs. Robert Stroetz, Mrs. Wilbur Mellenthin

1969 - Bandages were made and sent to Medical

Missions.

1971 - Bibs were sent to Bethesda; klenli-kits for World Relief.

1972 - Quilts and lap robes were made and sent to Bethesda.

1973 - Lap robes were made for elderly in the Colonial Home in Colby, Wis.

1975 - Donation was made to Rev. Seth Addy for pews for his congregation in Ghana.

1977 - Quilts and layettes for World Relief.

For many years members of LWML have saved coupons and postage stamps. Money from bake sales, May Basket fund raiser, LWML Sunday donations Christmas gifts have been sent to even more worthwhile mission projects including Bethesda, Medical Missions, Lutheran Children’s Friend Society, Lutheran Association of Missionaries and Pilots, Lutheran Braille Workers-Sight Saving, North Wisconsin District Mission to the Deaf, and Camp Luther.

St. John’s has had three members who were sent by Zone 14 to International Conventions; Mrs. Milford Yonker in 1961 to Pittsburg, Mrs. Herman Neumann in 1967 to Washington D. C., and Mrs. Ronald Bruesewitz in 1975 to St. Paul.

Every other year two members attend district conventions held throughout Northern Wisconsin.

In 1973, the new office of Mission Hospice was formed with Mrs. Leota Schwantes as first Hospice chairman.

Convention Time!

In fervent gratitude for the Savior’s dying love and His blood-bought gift of redemption, we dedicate ourselves to Him with all that we are and have; and in obedience to His call for workers in the harvest fields we pledge Him our willing service, wherever and whenever He hath need of us. We consecrate to our Savior our hands to work for Him, our feet to go on His errands, our voice to sing His praises, our lips to proclaim His redeeming love, our silver and our gold to extend His Kingdom, our will to do His will, and every power of our life to the great task of bringing the lost and erring into eternal fellowship with Him.

Amen.

1. Lutheran Women, one and all,

We have heard the Gospel call,

We by faith have seen our Lord

Crucified and then restored.

We have seen Him pay the price

For our sin a sacrifice.

Him we Lord and Christ acclaim,

And unite to praise his name.

2. Lutheran Women, young and old,

Well we know His challenge bold;

Help to take the Gospel light

To a world in darkest night,

By example in the home,

By inviting those who roam,

By your prayers for sinners lost

By your gifts for missions’ cost.

3. Lutheran Women, coast to caost,

In the Lord, a mighty host,

Let us all united be

In the Holy Trinity.

One in faith, in hope, and love,

Working for the Lord above,

Till, our earthly labors done,

We, in heav’n shall all be one. Amen.

The guild was formed in March of 1953 as an auxiliary group of the Ladies Aid. Mrs. Walter Justman, Mrs. Herman Andre and Mrs. Henry Wachholz were the first committee. Their function was to care for and replace paraments as needed, set up for communion, care for the communion ware, order flowers for special services and the first communion Sunday of the month. These ladies had many other little items that kept them busy. Complete records of who made all the altar cloths have not been kept but there are some we know for sure. Mrs. Dora Voelker made the lace around the fair linen. Mrs. Walter Fischer and Mrs. Violet Seefeldt helped with some of the cloths.

Mrs. Walter Neumann and Mrs. Vein Diethman also made cloths. Some of the cloths were given as memorials, again we don’t know all of them but these are the ones we know for sure:

Mrs. Gust Frank - Red - 1969

Mr. Maynard Wachholz - White - 1971

The green cloths we use at this time were donated by the Ladies Aid for the new altar, in 1976. The blue contempory cloth was donated by Mr. and Mrs. Maynard Neumann, in 1976.

Baptismal Napkins were also a part of this work. Mrs. Walter Justman made the first ones along with Mrs. Walter Fischer. Now, Mrs. Maynard Neumann makes them even though she is not on the committee.

The committee has changed somewhat over the past few years. In order for more women to have the opportunity to serve in this special area it was decided that each person serving ask another lady of the congregation to take her place each serving for one year and with another lady. We hope that when you are asked you will find it a privilege to say ‘yes’.

PUPILS: 1^st row, kneeling, L to R: Regina Ziehlsdorff, Emmie Brusewitz, Ernie Brusewitz, Harold Nitzlaff, and Vernis Andre.

2^nd row: Ruth Ziehlsdorff, Lauren Andre, Hilda Andre, Elsie Griepentrog, Lydia Damrow, Frances Nennian.

3^rd row: Esther Justman, Ida Frank

4^th row: Elsie Hahn, Emma Damrow, Rosetta Seefeldt, Susie Martens, Leota Andre

Boys on the left: Walter Neunen, John Brewitz, John Frank.

Right: Bill Frank, Alfred Griepentrog, Olaf Manthe

In front of the door: Myron Krause

The children generally attended school from age six until confirmation. They also participated in school programs, congregational picnics, and Christmas programs which often lasted two hours. The church pastor served as the school teacher, and his wife generally assisted, especially when the pastor was called away. Since money was very limited, and the pastor received little salary, the congregation provided him with what in German was called "love gifts". This included flour, sugar, meat, potatoes, and the like. The pastor also had a cow to provide him with additional support.

The emphasis of the old parochial school was of course on religious instructions, and the majority of the school’s time was spent in this. A typical day began at 9:00 A.M. with song and prayer. This was followed by the recitation of memorized portions of the catechism and with instructions. At 10:30 a half hour recess was enjoyed. From 11:00 until noon the children studied reading and language. During the afternoons the students were instructed in Bible history, geography, arithmetic, and American history. School dismissed at 4:00 P.M. with singing and prayer. All of the early education was of course taught and learned in German.

Norvel Justman, Verner Oelrich, Alvin Frank, Walter Luepke, Martin Griepentrog, Ervin Schweke, Maynard Schwantes, Bertha Neumann, Francis Neumann, Adalia Frank, Hilda Andre, Ruth Ziehlsdorff, Amanda Damrow, Emme Bruesewitz

August Siecke - teacher

Wilbur was born August 9, 1933 to Walter and Arvilla (Oelrich) Neumann. He was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s, Spencer by Pastor Hinz. He attended Concordia College, Milwaukee for high school and jr. college graduating in 1954. He then attended Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo., graduating in 1959. His vicarage was in La Grange, Illinois, with his first call being to a dual parish in rural Nebraska. In 1963 he accepted a call as assistant pastor to Mitchel, South Dakota. There he served the youth until 1964 when he accepted the pastorship at the same church. While in Dakota he also served as the South Dakota District Director of Youth Work, Circuit Counselor, and on the District Board of Directors for two years. August of 1969 saw the Neumanns accepting a call to Perryville, Missouri. There he worked with five different vicars, and also had six retired pastors in the congregation. A new church was dedicated in 1974 with Dr. Hoffman as guest speaker for celebration. Wilbur had other responsibilities also in Missouri as Circuit Counselor, Chairman of East Mo. Pastor’s Conference, and Vice-Chairman of the Mo. District Pastor’s Conference. In July 1977 he accepted a call to Peoria, Ill. He has had the honor of attending three Synodical Conventions: New York, 1967; Denver, 1969; and Anaheim, 1975.

Wilbur married Elaine Hellwege of Stuttgardt, Ark. in 1958. She is a graduate of Lutheran Hospital School of Nursing. They have been blessed with four healthy children - Mark, 19 (Jr. in college), Gary, 17 (Sr. in High School), Kari, 15 (So. in High School), and Carol, 1 2 (Seventh Grade).

Richard was born November 1, 1945, at Marshfield, Wisconsin. He was baptized on November 25, 1945 at St. John’s Lutheran Church by Rev. H. Hinz and confirmed on May 24, 1959 by vacancy pastor W. R. Krueger. Richard has stated, "I believe it was my early Christian education and confirmation instruction which I received from this congregation that led me into the ministry along with the encouragement of my grandfather, the late Mr. Edward Klein".

Richard attended Concordia College High School from 1959 until 1963 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin. After that he attended Concordia Sr. College at Fort Wayne, md., graduating in 1967 with a B. A. degree. From this point Richard studied at Concordia Theological Seminary in Springfield, Ill. Vicarage was served in Fruitvale, Trail, Castlegar, and Nelson, B.C. under Rev. H. Clark of Trail, B.C. Richard graduated from the seminary on May 21, 1971 and was ordained on July 11, 1971 at St. John’s Lutheran Church by Rev. W. R. Krueger.

Since his ordination Richard has served the Klondike Trail Parish which included congregations at Mellowdale, Vega, Swan Hills, and a mission at Fort Assiniborne, Alberta. This parish was served from 1971 until March of 1973. He then served St. Peter Lutheran at Castlegar, St. John Lutheran at Nelson, and the Arrow Lakes Mission at Nakusp, B.C. Richard resigned from this position on May 21, 1978 so that he might study for his Dr. of Ministry degree at the Concordia Theological Seminary at Ft. Wayne, Indiana.

1881 -Remember when cemetary lots were $2 for Adults and $1 for Children.

1882 -Remember when members were asked to provide a half cord of firewood for the church

1882 -Remember when everyone who wished to attend communion was to announce to the pastor personally.

1882 -Remember when the first outhouse was built, 6x4x8 with two compartments and two seats each.

1884 -Remember when members who were delinquent in dues were given a 25% reduction upon payment.

1886 -Remember when Pastor Siebrant had to be "fetched" and driven home to Wein.

1892 - Remember when the congregation built a barn for the Pastor.

1893 -Remember when it was voted that each member give the pastor two bushels of oats for his livestock.

1898 -Remember when an addition was built on to the parsonage and each member was asked to donate $6.00 for it.

1913 -Remember when trees were planted on the parsonage lawn.

1914 -Remember when klingelbeutel were used for collections.

1914 -Remember when the OK was given for members to build a horse stall for the congregation if they were willing to do it free of charge.

1916 -Remember when the church and inventory was insured for $4000.

1916 -Remember when the Pastor was paid $2.00 a year for sweeping the church.

1924 -Remember when the church bell was rung between 11:00 and 12:00 p.m. after a death.

1924 -Remember when the elders were to take turns sitting in the choir loft to keep order.

1934 -Remember when the minutes of the voters meetings had to be read in both English and German.

Remember when Mission Festivals were celebrated in Matter’s woods.

Remember when Pastor Ziehlsdorff pastured his cows in the road ditches.

Remember when there was no basement under the church.

Remember when the parochial school students spent the day chasing the pastor’s cow.

Remember when the ladies and men sat on opposite sides of the church.

Remember when hot water had to be carried into the basement kitchen when dinners were held at the church, and the dish towels were dried in the cernetary.

Remember when the organ had to be pumped.

Remember when real candles were used on the Christmas tree and an elder stood nearby with a sponge on the end of a pole to extinguish small fires.

Remember when the parochial school students husked corn for the chickens at noon.

Remember when the minister preached here and took the horse to Abbotsford to preach.

Mission Festival Celebration in Matter’s Woods

Remember the Hitching Posts?

Remember the church band?

Chs. Neumann, Willie Oelrich, Henry Wachholz, Emil Naatz, John Naatz, Frank Neumann, Walter Justman, Robert Andre, Charles Oelrich, Fred Luepke, Fred Bruesewitz, Emil Mellenthin, Herbert Gripentrog, Ray Parrett, Fred Wangerin

August Voelker 1851 - 1934

Mr. And Mrs. Herman Manthe

Pastor Imm and Wife

Mrs. Ziehlsdorff and Ruth

Frank Seefeldt and Frank Neumann

1900 Confirmation

First Child Baptized

August Luepke Born August 3, 1878

Baptized September 15, 1878

By Rev. Erck

First Marriage – October 18, 1880

John Schwantes and Minnie Mellenthin

By Rev. J. Schutte

First Death – February 2, 1881

Infant daughter of Karl and Minnie Luepke

Emergency baptism administered by Christopher Voth

Buried by Rev. J. Schutte

Total Baptisms – 580

Total Marriages – 289

Total Burials – 270

Total Confirmed – 750

CHURCH COUNCIL

Front Row: Steve Krause, Treasurer; Arnold Oelrich, Elder; Ronald Elmhorst, Secretary; Herbert Wachholz, Elder

Back Row: Emil Luepke, Elder; Ken Mellenthin, Trustee; Alvin Habeck, Chairman; Henry Bluhm, Trustee; Herman Neumann, Trustee

Chairman: Alvin Habeck

Vice Chairman: Ronald Seefeldt

Elders: Emil Luepke

Arnold Oelrich

Herbert Neumann

Trustees: Ken Mellenthin

Henry Bluhm

Herman Neumann

Secretary: Ronald Elmhorst

Treasurer: Steve Krause

Financial Secretary: Robert Backus

Financial Committee: John Miller Jr.

David Toltzman

Charles Bruesewitz

Alan Seefeld

Richard Wachholz

Sexton: Maynard Neumann

Cemetery Committee: Olaf Manthe

Ruby Lynn

Robert Schwantes

Organist: Marsha Martens

Custodians: Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Wachholz

Centennial Committee: Barb Ault

Dave Ault

Eileen Bruesewitz

Ronald Bruesewitz

Alvin Habeck

Martha Kopp

Isabelle Klein

Elda Neumann

Norma Luepke

Olaf Manthe

Jane Neumann

Jerry Neumann

Arvin Podevels

Leota Schwantes

Lori Stroetz

Leona Wachholz

Lynette Wachholz

A centennial is an event which most of us will celebrate only once in a life time, and many persons will never celebrate. St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spencer will observe its 100th anniversary in 1978. It takes many people to plan the events of a centennial. This includes mailing invitations, compiling a centennial book, preparing worship services, meals, and exhibits, and many other activities too numerous to mention. Many hours were donated by many people, all of whom must be thanked. It would be impossible to list all who helped. We give special thanks to the Centennial Committee, who worked tirelessly for months, to the ministers who participated in our services, to Gertrude Graupner for translating many of the old German records, to those who composed the 75th anniversary booklet, to Barb Ault and Eileen Bruesewitz for compiling our centennial book, and to any other organization or individuals who helped in any way.

Centennial Committee Co-Chairmen:

Ronald Bruesewitz

Jerry Neumann

CENTENNIAL COMMITTEE:

Row 1: Mrs. Emil (Norma) Leupke, Mrs. Gerald (Jane) Neuman, Mrs. Dave (Barb) Ault, Mrs. Maynard (Elda) Neumann, Mrs. Leota Schwantes.

Row 2: Mrs. Ron (Eileen) Bruesewitz, Mrs. Gehardt (Isabelle) Klein, Lori Stroetz, Lynette Wachholz.

Row 3: Gerald Neuman, (co-chairman), Arvin Podevels, Ron Bruesewitz, (co-chairman), Olaf Manthe

Not pictured: Alvin Habeck, Pastor Dave Ault, Mrs. Leona Wachholz

In Retrospect

In producing this book, we have conscientiously and faithfully performed our task of preserving for future readers the story of the beginnings and progress of our congregation. In doing so we have tried to use every source available. Our thanks to those who helped to obtain information and photographs. In doing this you have helped us preserve and share our heritage.

No work of this kind can be without errors or escape criticism. We hope you will treasure the book and think kindly of our inaccuracies.

CHOIR

Row 1: Mrs. Donald (Karen) Hanson, director; Mrs. Dave (Barb) Ault, Sara Stroetz, DeAnn Hanson, Mrs. Bill (Marshal) Martens, organist.

Row 2: Lynette Wachholz, Mrs. Ken (Lois) Mellenthin, Mrs. Ron (Karen) Seefeldt, Lori Stroetz, Penny Hanson

Not Pictured: Janell Mellenthin, Mrs. Ron (Eileen) Bruesewitz

ORGANIST: Mrs. William Martens

CUSTODIANS: Mr. And Mrs. Herbert Wachholz

CARETAKER: James Bluhm

CEMETERY COMMITTEE: Rudy Lynn, Olaf Manthe, Maynard Neumann (Sexton), Robert Schwantes