388 E 4TH ST

388 E 4TH ST

Trempealeau

Galesville

1857

house of worship

Other Vernacular

Unknown

Clapboard

No

This simple, vernacular brick structure with lancet windows, eave returns, and a pedimented entry is an intact example of a common building type of the mid 19th century. The clapboard-sided bell tower, with pyramid and flared roofs, was added in 1925. A parish hall was added onto the rear in 1959. The Methodist-Episcopal Church was organized in 1856 by H.M. Hays, with the Goodhued, Payne, and Kribs families as original members. Rev. Watts was the first minister. They built this structure in 1857 at a cost of $1,300. It has been remodeled many times. In 1925, under Rev. Lucas, a dining room was added, the belfrey was built, and a bell from a church in Iowa was installed. From 1949-53, uhnder Rev. Atwood, the interior of the church was redecorated and new lights were installed in 1953. In 1959, another addition was added. Between the years 1931-35, under Rev. Ivey, the Federation of Congregational and Methodist Churches occurred, and the church acquired its present name. Rev. Quinn was the first Pastor after the merger. Centerville Methodist Church joined the congretation in 1964. This church had been started in 1864 and had always been served by the Trempealeau Minister. The last service held in the Centerville Church was in May, 1964. As a memorial a chapel incorporating the stained glass windows from the Centerville Church was built.

A. Trempealeau Historical Album, 1867-1967. B. Inscription on Church.