Table of Contents
Arthur Baptist History
75th Anniversary History
85th Anniversary Program
90th Anniversary Program
Article on Disbanding
Article in Odebolt Chronicle

PREFACE

It is fitting that upon the occasion of the seventy-fifth anniversary of the organization of the Arthur Baptist Church we should pause and ponder the work of God which has taken place in and through this congregation. It is fitting also that we then pay tribute to those faithful ones who have, through personal effort and sacrifice, held high the Light of the glorious gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. It is further fitting that we give all praise and glory to Him who called this church into being and has permitted it, by the gracious ministry of His Spirit, to see the work of reconciliation effected in countless lives through these seventy five years. Nor should we stop there, for the work is not yet completed which the Lord has called us to accomplish for Him. It is therefore not only fitting, but necessary, that we prepare ourselves for even greater service in days yet before us. If this brief resume' of the work of the Arthur Baptist Church during these past seventy five years shall cause the fire of faith and fervor and fellowship to be fanned into even greater warmth and brightness, we shall thrill anew to the realization that the lives of godly and devoted people such as these live on in the lives of those who follow them. The challenge from the pen of Edna St. Vincent Millay can well be for each of us on this occasion:

"To be alive in such an age
With every day a lightning page
Turned in the world's great wonder book
Whereon the learning nations look.
Give thanks, and clasp thy heritage
To be alive in such an age. . ."

"Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:2- 6)

We are indebted to many in the preparation and presentation of this anniversary history. Our thanks go especially to Miss Evelyn Johnson, who, in her "60 Years of History of The Arthur Baptist Church," has given us a warm description of the men and women who directed the course of our church during, not only the times of beginning, but through times of crisis and stress. Her transmission of these records from Swedish to English, are, and will become increasingly, invaluable to our church. We further appreciate her advice and assistance in the preparation of this history. To many in the church who have related anecdotes from the experiences of their parents and grandparents and have provided background material in general for this history we express our gratitude.

Our thanks to the anniversary historical committee who have facilitated this work, especially in the final chapter regarding the church organizations. To all who have supplied pictures of former pastors, members, and church scenes and activities, we are most grateful. Photographic work, including both original photographs and copying of old pictures, comes from the Bert Cannon Studio in Odebolt. Our thanks also to Richard Wagner, publisher of The Chronicle in Odebolt for his assistance in printing the history.

It is probable that, in spite of efforts to guarantee accuracy and completeness, errors and omissions may find their place in this history. The writer assumes complete responsibility for such, and expresses his regret that time, personal limitations, and other factors have necessarily limited the scope and coverage of this work.

-- David C. Brown, Pastor --

PASTORS WHO HAVE SERVED THE CHURCH
( )indicates summer pastorate; * indicates interim pastorate.

1885-1836 Hans Hallander
1886 A. Pearson
1889-1892 C. J. Ahlmquist
1892-1896 C. J. Granquist
1896-1898 N. A. Lindholm
1898-1901 C. J. Ahlmquist
(1900) C. R. Osbeck
1901-1903 Andrew Swartz
1904-1907 A. Berglund
1907-1909 0. Lindholm
1909-1910 V. E. Peterson
1911-1914 Herman Bergman
*(1913) Benjamin Nelson
*1914 N. S. Miller
1914-1918 A. E. Carlson
1918-1920 Bennett Erickson
1920-1922 Carl A. Anderson
1922 John A. Roos
1922-1924 E. J. Nordlander
1924-1933 Peter Lovene
1933-1942 A. W. Erickson
1943-1952 Alrick Blomquist
*1944-1946 C. 1. Peterson
*1952 Gordon Hasselblad
*1953 James Schubring
1953-1956 R. W. Forsman
1956- David C. Brown



Chapter 1
BACKGROUND
"Remember this day in which ye came out of the house of bondage; for by strength of hand the Lord brought you out from this place." (Exodus 13:2)

No discussion of the background of the Arthur Baptist Church would be complete without a presentation of conditions in Sweden which brought the early Swedish immigrants to this country. There were three basic reasons which brought the waves of immigrants to these shores around the middle of the nineteenth century: the spirit of adventure attracted chiefly the single men and youth; the economic conditions in Sweden especially when compared with the opportunities of the United States drew many; religious persecution and lack of religious freedom brought many to the assured liberty of the United States.

Though the Swedish constitution of 1809 granted, in theory if not in practice, "the free exercise of religion to all subjects of the kingdom," the conventicle Act of 1726, which forbade assembly for unauthorized religious meetings, prevented the people to worship God according to their own conscience and conviction.(l) Thus many who were true to the Lutheran state church in doctrine found themselves liable to fines and/or imprisonment and even banishment because of their concern about the worldliness and immorality within the church and association with the pietistic movement which was concerned primarily with the devotional study of Scripture, the incorporation of the laity into Christian work, and purity and practicality in Christian life.

By the last quarter of the nineteenth century some concessions had been made by the state church under force of mounting public opinion. But the Combined circumstances mentioned above had begun the migration which was destined to bring 300,000-400,000 Swedes to this country before the turn of the century.

The Swedish settlers to Iowa came primarily because of religious freedom which was offered to them here in contrast to the religious persecution which had been their lot in Sweden. Around the middle of the nineteenth century Sweden was swept with revival, and people turned to studying the Word of God for themselves. The result of this was that many became convinced that the church of Jesus Christ should be composed of those who by repentance of sin and faith in Christ's sacrifice upon the cross had received forgiveness of sin and regeneration by grace, and had been baptized according to the New Testament example. This naturally led to persecution by the authorized state church. The first Swedish settlers in Iowa arrived in 1845, and the first Swedish Baptist church in Iowa was organized at Village Creek on August 10, 1853. In 1867-1869 several Swedish families made their way westward from Swedebend (Stratford) and settled finally in the Otter Creek valley (now Kiron). At that time there was no church or mission of any type in the area, and since there were several Baptist families among the settlers a Baptist church seemed to be needed. After meeting during the early months in the dugout sod houses, on August 16, 1868, eighteen individuals formed the Kiron Baptist church.

One of the outstanding leaders in the church was Hans Hallander. "He had attended the Gustaf Palmquist colporter school in Stockholm for a short time and had preached some in Sweden. He had a strong leading voice for public singing and in the early days more people heard the gospel from him than any one else."(2) "He was perhaps the best orator among the group. It is said by those who heard him that his voice carried well to all those who gathered at the services."(3) It is further recorded that Hallander's ability in speaking was the means of his deliverance from arrest on at least one occasion. One time in Ångermanland after he had expounded the text, "He that dwelleth in the secret places of the Most High shall abide under the Shadow of the Almighty," the sheriff who was present at the meeting to arrest him did not have the courage to do so. (4)

As the settlement moved northward, Hallander moved with it, carrying with him the same gospel fervor which had characterized him in Sweden and in the Otter Creek valley settlement. His geographical and spiritual position thus placed him in circumstances of influence which led to the organization of the Arthur Baptist Church.

Hans Hallander

Chapter 2
BEGINNINGS
"Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name." (Malachi 3:16)

The earliest spiritual beginnings in this southeast corner of Ida county were initiated by Hans Hallander, who opened his home for preaching and prayer services. He was assisted in this ministry by Rev. John Ring, who was pastor at Kiron from 1873-1880.

So things continued until 1882 when Miss Dorothy Pluver, a Methodist from Boone, Iowa, who taught in the recently constructed "Lund" schoolhouse (located just over a mile south of the church site), began a Sunday School there. This work was continued the next fall when she moved to the "Larson" schoolhouse (the original building still stands about a mile north of the church site today).

Early in 1883 five women, Mrs. Johanna Samuelson, Mrs. Louisa Sederberg, Mrs Martha Anderson, Mrs. Margreta Hallander and Mrs. Jonas Fanberg met in the home of Mrs. Fanberg and began the "Sewing Society", an organization which sewed and sold various items to assist financially areas of spiritual service which were in need. Praying that God would bless their efforts, each member contributed one dollar. John B. Samuelson in 1894 wrote of the Sewing Society, "God has crowned this humble beginning of $5.00 with rich blessings through the years. Their work did not end with the Sunday School and our home field, but has reached out to the dark heathen lands. Since 1891 they have supported a native missionary with $30.00 yearly. Money has also been sent to the mission field in Lapland." Thus this group had an important part in the early beginnings of the work here, supporting the Sunday School before the church was organized, and then providing for visiting ministers who came to conduct services before the church was built and a regular pastor was called.

"Mr. Hallander began holding services in the Larson schoolhouse soon after its completion. This schoolhouse became the most popular place for public meetings, and as the whole community was friendly to all religious activities, there was never any objection on the part of the schoolboard toward services here. Even pastors of other denominations came occasionally to conduct a service. Among these were Rev. Christianson of the Lutheran church, and a Rev. Peterson from the Mission church of Odebolt. Mr. I. Michaelson, a layman from Kiron, also often came to assist Mr. Hallander.

"When Rev. L. J. Ahlstrom came to serve the Kiron church as pastor in 1881, he came regularly (once a month) to these two schoolhouses to hold set-vices. In the winter of 1883-1884 Hans Hallander conducted a revival in the Larson schoolhouse. This proved to be a period of spiritual refreshing for many. Thirteen were saved, and it was then that the mother church of Kiron agreed that members in the new field might celebrate the Lord's supper and hold baptism whenever there was occasion for it.

"There were soon five candidates for baptism, but there was no place to administer the ordinance. So on Saturday preceding the Sunday chosen for baptism, some brethren widened a space and fastened a big door in the bottom of the creek in the meadow on the Hallander farm. They built a dam to hold the water trickling down the bed of the creek. It filled overnight, overflowing the dam, thus providing the first baptistry for the new church.

"A great number of neighbors came to witness the simple, yet moving ceremony conducted by Rev. L. J. Ahlstrom in the quiet beauty of that Sabbath afternoon. Following this, the Lord's supper was celebrated in the almost imaginary shade of a young cottonwood grove planted near the Hallander home."(5)

The five who followed the Lord in baptism that day were Nels Carlson, Mrs. Bengta Carlson, Gust Bilsten, Charles Palm, and Amanda Hallander.

It was on Friday, October 2, 1885, that the decision to organize was made. The site was the Larson schoolhouse. The chairman for the meeting was Hans Hallander, and John Samuelson was selected as secretary. Mr. and Mrs. John Anderson and Jonas Fanberg gave testimony of their faith in Christ and expressed their wish to unite with the others present in the formation of a Baptist church in the immediate vicinity. The actual motion that the Baptists here should organize a separate organization "because the distance of nine miles between the new settlement and the mother church was too great to travel regularly" was made by Jonas Fanberg. Rev. Ahlstrorn and Hans Hallander were appointed to submit this request to Kiron on the following Sunday.

John B. Samuelson
Minutes
Larson Schoolhouse
Although the formal organization was scheduled for October 11, 1885, some unexplained reason delayed the actual organization until October 25. "Rev. Ahlstrom and the deacons, N. F. Rodin, I. Michaelson, C. J. Johnson and Fred Beck, who acted as delegates from the Kiron church, met with the charter members in the Larson schoolhouse." (6) The service began at 2:30 p.m. and opened with the reading of the Word of God, the singing of a hymn, and prayers by various of the assembled. And, as at that beginning service, so through the years, the church has been characterized by its study of the Word, its singing of the gospel in the great hymns of the church and beautiful Swedish melodies, and its dependence upon God through the channel of prayer. "Rev. Ahlstrorn then proceeded to question the members of the new congregation as to their faith and convictions, and in the words of the secretary, 'It appeared that they all had one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and, as it seemed, one heart and soul'."(7) Ahlstrom states, "There the members formed a semicircle in front of the platform within the schoolroom and Rev. Ahlstrorn led in prayer. The deacons, Rodin and Michaelson, gave short, appropriate addresses. The chairman then declared the church duly organized under the name "The First Swedish Baptist Church of Arthur, Ida County, Iowa. The minutes of this meeting close with the following statement: -After singing No. 106 Pilgrim's Songs 'Blest Be The Tie That Binds' this blessed meeting closed with the benediction'." (8)

The charter members of the Arthur Baptist Church were Hans Hallander, Mrs. Margreta Hallander, Mr. John B. Samuelson, Mrs. Johanna Samuelson, Mr. John Anderson, Mrs. Martha Anderson, Mrs. Jonas Fanberg, Mrs. Louisa Fanberg, Mrs. Sederberg, Mr. Nils Carlson, Mrs. Nils Carlson, Mr. Gust Bilsten, Mr. K. J. Palm, Miss Amanda Hallander, Mr. Nils Anderson, Mrs. Nils Anderson and Mr. Olaf Gradin.

Two weeks following organization, on November 4, the young church met again in business session to select church officers and make other foundational decisions. Hans Hallander was selected to serve as pastor; Jonas Fanberg, treasurer; John B. Samuelson, secretary; John B. Samuelson and Nils Carlson, deacon, and John Anderson, Jonas Fanberg and Olaf Gradin, trustees. The deacons were ordained the same day with the laying on of hands by Hans Hallander and Rev. Ahlstrom. It was further decided to officially record the name of the church as "The First Swedish Baptist Church of Arthur, Ida County, Iowa," and to hold a yearly business meeting the first Saturday in January.

Other actions in the months immediately following include the decision to hold monthly business meetings, the request by the church for affiliation with the state conference on May 15, 1886, when it met in Kiron, and the calling of Rev. Andrew Pearson (Pherson) of Boone to be the pastor for a period of at least six months for a salary of $150.00. He arrived on August 7, 1886 and took over the responsibilities which Hans Hallander, though not an ordained minister, had carried in the first months of the church's existence.

Church in 1890

Chapter 3
BUILDING
"But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions." (Hebrews 10:32)

It was on December 20, 1886 that the possibility of building was first introduced to the group, and it was decided to discuss the matter at the next meeting, which was held January 8, 1887. At this meeting Hans Hallander gave two acres of land for the church site, and in the following meeting the trustees were instructed to or-der a carload of stone. In the March meeting it was planned to construct the building 32' x 44' but in May this was changed to 28' x 44'.

John Jakobson agreed to build the building for $200, to be completed by September 1, and with the work to be done "well and carefully". E. Ward laid the foundation for $12.00, with John Samuelson hauling the lime and John Anderson the bricks. Gust Segerstrom did the plastering at the rate of 60 a foot, with 150 for the chimney and 20 cents for that above the roof.

Pledges totaling $440.00 had been received in the January meeting, but the subscription list was held open until June 15. Solicitation of funds in the area was supervised by Hans Hallander in Kiron and by Jonas Fanberg and John Samuelson in Odebolt, Arthur, and Ida Grove.

The business meeting of July 2, 1887 records the decision to have benches made for the church, a task that was undertaken by Hans Hallander. It was also decided to do the painting themselves and that it should be "ratt och slatt".

The building was completed at a cost of $1,700.00 and insured with the Farmers' Insurance Company on September 3, 1887. The first baptismal service in the new church was held on October 9, a climax to the dedication services which were held from Thursday through Sunday. Gust Bilstene, Nels Carlson, C. Anderson were in charge of these meetings, which concluded with dinner in the church on Sunday and the Baptism of B. A. Samuelson, Andrew Branlund, and William E. Ward.

August Samuelson was appointed the first custodian October 29, 1887, and he served until January 1, 1888 for the sum of $4.00.

At the same time it was decided to put a fence around the church, and to make a board walk from the church with the extra lumber from the church building.

Beginning at this time weekly prayer meetings were begun, being held on Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m. Hans Hallander, in a business meeting where church unity and spiritual prosperity were being discussed, remarks that if these goals are to be realized every member of the group should be at prayer meeting and take part in prayer.

Chapter 4
1885 -1910
"Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of His holiness." (Psalm 97:12)

During the first twenty five years of the church's ministry ten men served as pastor or in position of leadership to the congregation. Hans Hallander is listed as the first leader of the church, though he was not an ordained minister. As mentioned before, he had some training at the Gustaf Palmquist colporter school in Stockholm as a young man after teaching himself to read and write. In addition to the activities mentioned in the first three chapters, he served as treasurer of the Iowa Conference from its organization in 1883 until 1889. He was the first Sunday school superintendent, selected January 8, 1887, and was assisted by Gust Bilsten and Nels, Carlson. Sunday School teachers in these first years included Jonas Bergman, Sophie Bernson, Andrew Branlund, and C. Palm, in addition to those mentioned above. It was Hallander who initiated the Christmas tree tradition in our church, "for the children and to, add cheer.

Andrew Pearson served the church from August 7, 1886 until February 1887. He organized a Bible class among the older and younger people, and it was during his ministry that the Sunday School was officially organized. Hans Hallander again assumed the responsibilities of leadership after his departure.

Rev. and Mrs. C. J. Ahlmquist
C. J. Ahlmquist took up the pastoral responsibilities May 1, 1889 and served until November 5, 1892. He served again from May 1 1898 to May 1, 1901. It was during his pastorates that the parsonage was, built, that the first organ and hymn books were secured for the church, that the Women's Missionary Society was organized and that the Young People's Society, "Fridsforbundet", was organized. When Ahlinquist's arrived, they lived in the Olaf Gradin home until the parsonage was completed in 1889 at a cost of $700.00. The organ was purchased for $100.00 through A. J. Freeman. Two dozen hymn books, "Pilgrim Sanger" and "Lammet's Lof" (Pilgrim Songs and Praise To The Lamb) were secured by Rev. Ahlmquist. It was also at this time that a choir, directed by Hans Levin, was organized, along, with a string band which was led by Peter Sjodin. The Young People's Society was organized in 1898, with Rev. Ahlmquist as the first chair-man, B. A. Samuelson as secretary, and Oscar Anderson as treasurer. The Women's Missionary Society was organized in the home of Mrs. John B. Samuelson on September 25, 1887. Mrs. Ahlmquist was made chairman, Viola Johnson, vice-chairman, Mrs. Hans Levin, treasurer, and Miss Anna Bergman, secretary.

Rev. C. J. Granquist family
C. J. Granquist was pastor from November 14, 1892 to May 1, 1896, and he was followed by N. A. Lindholm, who pastored the church from September 1, 1896 to March 1, 1898.

Rev. C.R. Osbeck family
Rev. A. Berglund family
During the summer of 1900 C. R. Osbeck served the church. He was ordained to the gospel ministry while serving here. Andrew Swartz ministered from October 1, 1901 to December 1, 1903, and he was followed by A. Berglund (April 1, 1904 to January 1, 1907) and O. Lindholm (August 1, 1907 to March 8, 1909). V. E. Peterson was the last pastor in this first quarter century, pastoring the church April 1, 1909 to October 1, 1910.

Rev. O. Lindholm family
Rev V. E. Peterson
The first twenty five years of the church's experience may be described as a period of organization, of adjustment, of establishment. Not only were there times of physical testing as in the Diptheria epidemic of the winter of 1888, and times of financial difficulties, as in 1889 when aid was received from the conference, but there were times of spiritual testing as well. Those early members of our church were men and women of strong convictions which upon occasion came into conflict with one another. The great earnestness of these Christians impresses us as we read accounts of them seeking to restore the unity and fellowship which on occasion had been strained. "The minutes clearly reveal great spiritual interest and concern of the group for one another. Time and again, as the years have passed, the records tell of instances where differences among members have caused ill-will, or where an erring brother has fallen. It is encouraging to note that the church did not evade her responsibilities in these cases. Committees were appointed to contact those concerned, admonish them to come before the church, and encourage them to make matters right where there had been differences among individuals." (9)

The church was concerned not only with its own group during these times, but in witnessing to the lost about and in extending the missionary outreach of the church. Funds were contributed to other churches in need, including a Negro church in Burlington. Contributions were made to the Swedish Baptist Seminary in Chicago, to Iowa conference missionary work, and other similar endeavors. For a time, it is recorded the church hired a hall in Odebolt and conducted services. A member of the church, August Anderson, entered the conference school at Stromsburg, Neb., in 1886 to study for the ministry.

The twenty fifth anniversary was climaxed with the completion of a basement under the church building, a needed addition for the growing ministry of the church.

Chapter 5
1910- 1935
"He hath made His wonderful works to be remembered." (Psalm 111:4)

Even as in the first twenty five years, so in the next quarter century, there were ten men who guided the church in its spiritual progress. Herman Bergman came to the church January 18, 1911, and served it until his death March 13, 1914. During his ministry the Philathea class was organized by Mrs. Bergman and Amy Johnson. The organization took place in 1913 in the N. P. Johnson home with seventeen members. This class, with its missionary emphasis for the young ladies, continued its active and important ministry for twenty years. In a time of rich ingathering, forty-eight individuals were baptized and received into the church during Rev. Bergman's ministry.

Rev. and Mrs. Herman Bergman
Church in 1912
1912 Delegates
Philathea Class
Baraca Class
During the summer of 1913 Benjamin Nelson, a student at Louisville (Kentucky) Seminary, served the church while Rev. Bergman was grant ed a few months sick-leave. He writes in a letter dated October 3, 1960, "We organized the Baraca class in the Sunday Bible School, the class consisting of twenty two fine young men. Needless to say, that summer of 1913 was a very interesting time for us working together with a group of fine young people and a good church. The class lasted for about twenty five years and exerted a great influence in the church as it influenced the young men of the church and community.

Rev. N. S. Miller
Following Rev. Bergman's death, N. S. Miller served the church in 1914 until the arrival of A. E. Carlson July 5, 1914. During Rev. Carlson's ministry, the young people's literary meetings were begun. An orchestra composed of Milton and Reuben Lindskoog, Emil, Seth, Elmer and Enoch Johnson, and Conwell Carlson was active during these years. Rev. Carlson was also the first minister to own an autornobile, which was purchased for him by the congregation. His ministry concluded here on August 17, 1918. Rev. Carlson was here during the first World War, and the service flag of the church contained sixteen stars. Marshall Salmon and Andrew Johnson gave their lives in the conflict.

Rev. and Mrs. A. E. Carlson
Rev. Bennett Erickson
Rev. Bennett Erickson, who is remembered as an outstanding orator, was pastor from December 1, 1918 to February 1, 1920.

Rev. Carl A. Anderson served the church from April 25, 1920 to February 28, 1922. During his pastorate the parsonage was remodeled at a cost of $6,000.00. "Rev. Anderson was a forceful preacher. He was well-informed on current topics of the day, and he never hesitated to express his opinions on religious or political issues in the pulpit."(10)

John A. Roos (Rose) was interim pastor from March 17 to October 23, 1922. On December 4, 1922, E. J. Norlander became pastor. "He was a zealous worker and won many friends for the church. There was a warm spirit of fellowship in the congregation during his pastorate." (11) During his ministry, the church installed electric lights in both the church and the parsonage. A male sextette, composed of Rev. Norlander, Harry and Arthur Lindberg, Arvid Peterson, and Enoch and Elmer Johnson was also active during this time. Rev. Nordlander completed his ministry here on July 20, 1924.

Rev. Peter Lovene
From July 20, 1924 to April 1, 1933, Peter Lovene ministered here, in the longest pastorate to that time in the history of the church. He was a man of scholarly bent, yet inspiring in his messages and manifesting a deep concern always for the unsaved. During his ministry here more than sixty two members were added to the church. The Women's Willing Workers group was organized in 1927. Rev. Lovene exercised an important influence in the Iowa Conference, as well as through the pages which came from his pen. Mrs. Lovene's death in August of 1932 saddened the last year of his ministry here.

Rev. A. W. Erickson
Rev. A. W. Erickson, who began his pastorate July 16, 1933, was pastor at the time of the church's fiftieth anniversary. Rev. Ahlstrom. was present for that anniversary, as were Rev. C. R. Osbeck and Rev. E. J. Nordlander. The Erickson's conducted the first young people's camps of which we have a record, beginning in 1935, at Storm Lake. Also Daily Vacation Bible School and Teacher Training Schools were continued and their effectiveness increased during this time. It was also during Rev. Erickson's ministry that the church adopted the envelope system for giving, and that the Sigma Omicron ladies' service organization was begun.

Swedish had been used in the church services up to this time. But now the decision was made to change to English in the church services, except for one Swedish service every three months. The only instance, discovered of the vice-chairman of the church being a woman occurred in 1937-1938 when Mrs. K. J. Palm served in this position. a position which she held at the time of her death May 31, 1938. Mrs. Erickson served as pianist during all her years here.

The second twenty-five year period may be described as one of growth, of transition, and of increasing effectiveness: It was during this period that many of the most telling and lasting organizations in the church were brought into being or expanded in their spheres of influence. It was during this period that World War I cast its long shadow across the world, and it was during this period that economic depression sucked the strength from the land. Yet in every instance the church, bracing itself against the solid Rock and finding untapped resources of strength within its membership and gaining courage from the quiet confidence of its leaders, met the difficulties and challenges head-on and rose above them.

Chapter 6
1935- 1960
"Remember this, and show yourselves men." (Isaiah 46:8)

There have been seven men (including Rev. A. W. Erickson mentioned above) who have ministered to the church during the last twenty five years either as regular pastors or supplying during the interim between pastors.

Rev. Alrick Blomquist
Following Rev. Erickson's pastorate, which concluded November 15, 1942. Rev. Alrik Blomquist assumed the pastoral charge here on January 10, 1943. The nation was once again embroiled in World War, and in August of the same year, he was granted a leave of absence to serve as chaplain in the armed forces of the country. Seventeen service stars appeared on the service flag of the church during the course of the conflict.

For a period of about three months following the pastor's departure, the pastor of the Arthur Free Church, which was in the process of moving its building to the town of Arthur, ministered to the two congregations meeting in the Baptist church.

Rev. C. I. Peterson
Then on January 9, 1244, Rev. C. Ivar Peterson began his duties as the interim pastor in the absence of Pastor Blomquist. Rev. Peterson developed a rural home extension department of the Sunday School, instituted an annual Homecoming Sunday each fall, and encouraged the landscaping of the church grounds. In June 1944, when the Articles of Incorporation were renewed, the church name was changed from The First Swedish Baptist Church of Arthur to The Arthur Baptist Church.

Church in 1945
Congregation in 1945
Rev. Blomquist returned from the chaplaincy in 1946 to resume his pastoral responsibilities. In 1948-1949 the church building was remodeled, with an oil furnace being purchased, restrooms being installed in the church basement, the addition of a cloak room upstairs and a library room downstairs, the lowering of the auditorium ceiling, the installation of indirect lighting, the installation of stainglass windows, the construction of a choir loft, and the purchase of new pews. In October 1950 a new Hammond organ was dedicated, being made possible by a donation from Senator Ralph Benson and the sale of the stables no longer in use on the church grounds.

It was also during this period that the church year was changed to coincide with the conference fiscal year instead of the calendar year. Rev. Blomquist's pastorate concluded May 15, 1952.

Rev. Gordon Hasselblad
Rev. Gordon Hasselblad served as interim pastor for the remainder of 1952 and his wise counsel and patient assistance in matters of church polity and procedure, as well as his ministering to the particular needs of the congregation, conserved and continued the progress of previous years.

Rev. and Mrs. James Schubring
Rev. and Mrs. Rudy Forsman
During the first few months of 1953, Rev. James Schubring regularly filled the pulpit of the church until the arrival of the new pastor, Rev. R. W. Forsman, May 1, 1953. During the ministry of Pastor Forsman, a new well was dug for the church and parsonage and the parsonage kitchen was remodeled. A junior young people's organization, Jet Cadets, was begun in October, 1955. The church in 1955 adopted the present constitution, and accepted the church covenant and confession of faith. His ordination to the ministry was the second to take place in he church. Rev. Forsman completed his ministry in January 1956.

Rev. David Brown family
On March 18, 1956 the present pastor, David C. Brown, began his ministry. In 1957 a Board of Religious Education was formed to correlate the various emphasis of the church organizations. A new piano was purchased in 1958, and a guest register, chimes, and folding doors for the Sunday School classrooms in the basement and the choir loft have been added since then. A long range planning committee was set up in 1959 to evaluate the present ministry of the church and to consider the proper direction for the future. The result of the study of this committee has been to unite the church in greater realization of its place and purpose in this community. The church has also had a part in sending Don and Lois Jean Hesse to Peru to work with Wycliffe Bible Translators. (Lois Jean is the daughter of Myron Segerstrom, our present church treasurer). Work with the youth in the church and a recognition of our responsibility to them resulted in the construction of a recreation area behind the church. Pastor Brown was ordained in 1958 by the church.

This last twenty five years may be described as a period of progress, of re-evaluation, and of vision. The impact of the gospel message has been marked, especially as it has been presented against a background of drought, depression, and war. But the last half of the period has seen a tremendous change in the economic and social structure of our nation. The rural areas of the land are shrinking in population while farm acreage is increasing due to greater mechanization. Thus the period for the churches, as everything else, has come to be a time of serious consideration regarding the future and our place in it. We feel that, though the church's outreach may thus be limited, its ministry and purpose remain the same. The commission of Christ has not been revoked, nor has His Spirit been taken away from His people. God grant us keener vision, clearer purpose, more steadfast convictions and more courageous compassion for the days before us.

Chapter 7
BRETHREN
"The righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance." (Psalm 112:6)

The story of the church is the story of men and women. Though of necessity the preceding chapters have had to superficially scan the deeds and days of the church, beneath the surface and between the lines lie the pulsating lives of dedicated Christians who put Christ and His church above personal selfish desires. These lines will mean little to you unless there has come the personal touch, the personal influence of these lives to your life.

It is recorded of Hans Levin, for example, that he would walk to the various homes to inquire about the absence of some child from Sunday School. This personal interest caused one member to state, "There is no man in all the world that I have thought more of than Hans Levin. " (12)

So, too, in the early chapters of this history, we see the personality of Hans Hallander shining through the account. Throughout this history we could pause and consider the individual lives of the members of this church, if time and space would permit. Such is not to be our opportunity on this occasion, at least. As you consider the history of the church, stop and reflect upon the lives that have influenced you through the years-a godly mother, a praying father, a faithful Sunday School teacher, a patient pastor, a steadfast friend.

Realizing that we can never name all who have exerted influence for their Lord even beyond their own generation, and not attempting to evaluate that influence either by the inclusion or omission from such a listing, we present some here for your remembrance and reflection who may not have been mentioned in the preceding history.

The following represent at least some of the faithful who have gone to be with the Lord in the last twenty five years: Mr. and Mrs. K. J. Palm, Mr. and Mrs. Nels Bergman, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Carlson, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Hammerstrom, Mrs. A. E. Johnson, Mrs. Frank Heitman, Mrs. Albert Levine, Mrs. Emma Ang, Minnie Johnson, Tillie Peterson, William Lindquist, Axel Segerstrom, Albert Barker, Karl Peterson, B. A. Samuelson, Oliver Gradin, Lloyd Linquist, Reuben Anderson, Gust Belstene, Claude Call, Albert Linquist, Frank Lindquist, Arthur Lindberg.

Gust Bilsten, the last living charter member passed away in 1956. The last Swedish- born member of the church was Frank Lindquist, who passed away in 1959.

We thank God for those who have labored for Him, for those who have lived for Him, and for those who have loved the souls of men with His divine love. And having thought upon these and others, and thanked God for them, let us then turn our hearts upward to Him and trust Him with our lives for time and eternity, that we may in turn be an influence for Him in the lives of those about us and so in the lives of those who will come after us, should the Lord tarry.

Chapter 8
BRIDGES
"Remember therefor how thou has received and heard, and hold fast, and repent." (Revelation 3:3)

No historical account deserves to be recorded unless it is framed in proper perspective. The God whom we worship and serve is a God of History, and history is to be considered the record of God's relations and dealings with man in time. Likewise history must be viewed as a continuing experience, not as a static record. It is the foundation upon which may be built in the present character and lives and deeds which will continue into the future.

Thus we see that this history is but a bridge which continues to span the years reaching out before us, and it is vital that we extend that bridge with careful building in order that others may find the way to Christ by following the example laid down by our lives.

On the occasion of this seventy-fifth anniversary of the organization of this church, we would do well to take our bearings, not only to see what has been the secret of the church's influence in the past, but to view the years before us and to chart our course accordingly.

There are three supports to the bridge which has thus been constructed in the past and will continue to reach out to the future. These three supports not only give strength but provide direction as well. These are the basic, foundational elements which have made the witness of this church strong in days past, and the only means by which it will continue a meaningful ministry in days now upon us and yet to come.

The first is The Inspired Word. This church has been built upon the Word of God, the Bible, and its message has been the church's message. Let others, if they will, utilize other sources, but we must proclaim the message of the Word-the message of forgiveness of sins and redemption through the shed blood of Jesus Christ by repentance and faith in Him, the message of hope instead of despair, of victory instead of defeat, of growth instead of decay. The Word of God was studied by all in the early days of our church; it was precious and personal to them individ ually, not just to the preacher or Sunday School teacher. And so it must be again, if this foundation is to remain strong and the structure erected upon it is to be steadfast. There can be no second-hand, second-rate experience in this matter.

The second is The Individual Worth. Throughout the years the concern of the church has been, not the polish of effective organization and administration, nor the praise of men because of extensive program, nor even pride in the care and construction of its eloquently simple place of worship, but the condition of the souls of men. The records of our church teach this lesson so clearly and so vividly that even the most casual reader cannot miss it: the soul of the individual is our concern, the spiritual well-being of each single individual in its care. This has been a strength of our church and a secret of its spiritual effectiveness through the years. We dare not lose it if we are to continue serving God in this place.

The third is The Influencing Workman. As mentioned before, the greatest impacts are the result of the greatest influences. The message becomes meaningful as it is embodied in a man. The message is important, but the man who proclaims the message by life as well as lip is vital to its acceptance by others. This church has experienced the periods of greatest growth when the members of the church most exemplified the message so that all around could see. The process is apparent and applicable today: first the exemplification of the truth, then the explanation of the truth, and then experiencing of the truth. When men see a difference they will want an explanation of it, and under standing it they will receive it. You are an influence, child of God, wherever you are; are you influencing men for Jesus Christ?

The days ahead for the Arthur Baptist Church can record even greater victories than the past if these three things are realized and utilized in our individual lives. "Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the ever lasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen." (Hebrews 13:20-21)

-David C. Brown

Chapter 9
BEACONS
"And thou shalt remember all the way which the Lord thy God led thee." (Deuteronomy 8:2)

Throughout the history of the church there have been organizations within the church which have exerted an outstanding influence in the church and the surrounding community. Some of these, such as the Philathea class and the Baraca class, which are no longer in existence, we have mentioned in the history of the church in the preceding pages. In this portion of our history, we would like to present a summary of the organizations which are active in the church at the present time, and are beacon lights to many who might not otherwise be reached.

SUNDAY SCHOOL

The Sunday School, as has been mentioned, had its beginnings in the "Lund" schoolhouse in the year 1882. The teacher in the school was Miss Dorothy Pulver, and she felt the need of a Sunday School in the community. The Sunday School was moved two miles north, to the "Larson" schoolhouse, the following fall when Miss Pulver, a Methodist from Boone, began teaching there.

In January of 1887 the church officially became responsible for the Sunday School. Hans Hallander became the superintendent, and Gust Bilsten and Nels Carlson were selected as his helpers. Classes were conducted in Swedish, and the Sunday School songbook published by Rev. T. Truve of Gothenburg, Sweden, was used. Jonas Bergman, Andrew Branlund, and C. Palm were Sunday School teachers at that time. It was thought wise to have a lady teaching in the School also, and Miss Sophie Bernson was chosen for that position. Other prominent figures in the Sunday School through the years include Hans Levin, Mrs. K. J. Palm, and Frank Heitman.

Through the years the Sunday School has been an important soulwinning instrument in the church; it has been, in large measure, the training arm of the church; and it has also, of course, been important for the teaching ministry it has carried on.

Records indicate that in the twenty five year period from 1885 to 1910, thirty five children had accepted Christ as personal Saviour through the Sunday School; twenty six of these later were baptized and became members of the church.

A comparison of attendance and offering figures for the last thirty five years is interesting. The average attendance from 1925 to 1945 was 46; the average offering for that same period was $2.36. The enrollment in 1950 was 65 with an average attendance of 46. Offerings averaged $6.75. The present enrollment is 72, with an average attendance of 56. Offerings average $8.93.

The Sunday School has helped support foreign and home missions of our Conference; the Sioux City Gospel Mission; Harris Youngquist's, Conference missionaries to Japan from the Kiron church; Don Hesse's, working with Wycliffe Bible Translators in Peru (Mrs. Hesse is the former Lois Jean Segerstrorn from our church); Sunny Ridge Home for Children; Klingberg's home, and a Korean orphan, through Everett Swanson. The Sunday School has also purchased a slide and filmstrip projector.

The Sunday School sponsors or otherwise provides for Bible School during the summer, Rally Day, and contests to increase interest and attendance each year. A birthday offering is taken twice a year, which is given to Pine Lake Bible Camp, our state conference camp at Eldora. Each year attendance bars and prizes are given to pupils with perfect attendance.

The Sunday School is departmentalized, has seven classes, and uses graded lessons, a practice begun in 1956.

Present officers are Mrs. Carl Sonichsen, superintendent; Mrs. Milford Barker, superintendent of grades; Eleanor Linquist, secretary; Hazel Belstene, treasurer. Teachers are Edna Olson, LaDonna Linman, Agnes Gustafson, Myrtle Barker, Lucile Fries, Barbara Johnson, and Pastor Brown.

WOMEN'S ORGANIZATIONS

The women's organizations of the church stem from the "Sewing Society" which was organized in 1883 by Mrs. Jonas Fanberg in her home with four other ladies, Mrs. Johanna Samuelson, Mrs. Louisa Sederberg, Mrs. Martha Anderson, and Mrs. Margreta Hallander. The society sought to support the Sunday school, and assist in other missionary and benevolent projects.

"These funds were raised by selling at public auction, articles made by the members at their all-day meetings. These auctions were always a financial success. The most popular article sold was men's shirts as they were not yet a common article of clothing on the market and there were quite a number of Swedish immigrant bachelors who were always in need of them. Their first auction brought $100.00".(13)

On September 23, 1959, seventy six years after that first meeting in the Fanberg home, one hundred and forty women met at the church to honor the memory of those now gone and to thank God for His blessings.

The thirty three members of the present society all joined in reenacting the events which evidenced the change and growth of three quarters of a century. They chose as their theme an old Swedish hymn entitled, "0, Harliga Dag" ("0 Glorious Day"), which was beloved by the pioneer women and which is still sung in the congregation. The meeting that day closed with the reading of Revelation 21:5, 23-26.

Women's Missionary Society

The Women's Missionary Society was organized in the home of Mrs. John B. Samuelson September 25, 1889, when their Sewing Society had their monthly meeting. Mrs. Ahlmquist was chosen to be chairman; Viola Johnson, vice-chairman; Mrs. Hans Levin, treasurer; and Miss Anna Bergman, secretary.

Mrs. Ahlmquist, the pastor's wife, felt the members should come together for Bible study and prayer, and thus encourage one another in the faith. Another aim of this society was to be the study and support of home and foreign missions, and to seek to be of help to others. They decided to meet the last Sunday evening of each month at 7 p.m. for one hour. Each member pledged a dollar.

The second meeting of the Women's Missionary Society was held in the home of Mrs. Ahlmquist, the parsonage just completed that autumn, on September 27, 1889. The minutes of this meeting record the following members in addition to those already mentioned: Mrs. John B. Samuelson, Mrs. John Anderson, Mrs. Britta Bergman, Mrs. Louisa Sederberg, and Mrs. Carrie Wik.

The present Women's Missionary Society has kept faith with the first five women who asked God to bless the work of their hands and their humble gifts of money. Each November meeting has for years been set aside as the time for a special offering for foreign missions. In addition the Society sponsors Gift-A-Meal banks for Bethel College and Seminary, Conference Rose and Mayflower projects; contributes to Conference Home and Foreign mission enterprises, to state and national conference women's work; collects used clothing for needy areas, and Butter Nut coffee strips and labels which have provided toys and treats for children in the Boys and Girls Home in Sioux City. The Society has helped financially the Hebrew Mission in St. Paul, Klingberg's Children's Home, and similar organizations.

Since 1952 the Society has sponsored a reading program among its women. The Girls' Missionary Guild is also sponsored by this Society.

Present officers include Evelyn Johnson, president; Myrtle Barker, vice president; LaDonna Linman, secretary; Evangeline Carstensen, treasurer.

Willing Workers

Willing Workers was organized June 1, 1927, when a Sunday School class met at the home of Mrs. Seth Johnson. The charter members were Mrs. K. J. Palm, Mrs. P. Lovene, Mrs. A. E. Johnson, Mrs. Kate Peterson, Mrs. Frank Heitman, Jennie Peterson, Mrs. Emil Johnson, Mrs. Oscar Finstrorn, Mrs. Arthur Lindberg, Mrs. Joe Samuelson, Mrs. Nels Bergman, Mrs. Rue Waldemar, Mrs. Ellen Linquist, Mrs. Seth Johnson, and Mrs. Elmer Johnson. Mrs. Seth Johnson was the first chairman, and Mrs. K. J. Palm was their teacher.

The Willing Workers sent two boxes of garments, which they had sewn, twice a year to Klingberg's Orphanage. Since then the quilts, pillow cases, towels, aprons, etc. which they have made have been sent to such places as the Council Bluffs Children's Home, Fridhem, Woodward, Bethel, and Pine Lake Camp, as well as to needy friends.

Since 1943 the group has done White Cross work for the Conference. The group has purchased needed articles for the church kitchen and assisted in a variety of ways. In 1957 night shirts were made for the men at the Sioux City Mission. The group also did some sewing for missionaries Don Hesse's and packed some barrels of needed supplies for them.

Present officers are Eloise Brown, president; Marian Sonichsen, vice-president; Lucile Fries, secretary-treasurer; Olive Houser, vice-secretary-treasurer.

Sigma Omicron

The Sigma Omicron society, composed of a group of younger ladies in the church, has its antecedents in the Dorcas society which was organized in 1905 and was in existence evidently until about 1918.

The Sigma Omicron society was designed primarily as a service group, for its name is composed of the Greek letters "S" and "0", which stand for "Serving Others."

On the evening of September 26, 1939, a group of thirteen of the younger women of the Arthur Baptist Church met in the church parlors for the purpose of forming an organization whose purpose was to further the cause of Missionary work through monetary donations and the sewing of clothing and quilts for the needy. These thirteen were Gertrude Barker, Doris Bergman, Hazel Belstene, LaVerne Johnson, Dorothy Mae Lindberg, Eleanor Linquist, Evangeline Linman, Elna Olson, Esther Olson, Goldie Palm, Ruth Samuelson, Adele Swanson, and Myrtle Thompson.

The following were elected to serve as officers during that first year: Evangeline Linman, president; Adele Swanson, secretary-treasurer; and Goldie Palm, vice-secretary- treasurer. The sewing committee consisted of Goldie Palm, chairman, Myrtle Thompson, and Hazel Belstene.

During the years various changes were made within the organization, such as each member having a "Friendship Sister", the decision to have Bible Study using "Through The Bible Series", and the change from evening to afternoon meetings.

Outstanding projects have included the Christmas Party, at which time the group entertained the ladies of the church and all in attendance brought toys which were sent to needy children at various places.

Other projects include sending toys and clothing to Rev. Lundeen at the time he was doing missionary work in northern Minnesota, contributions to World Relief, missionaries and their children, Christmas boxes for the service boys, books for the Girls' Missionary Guild, gifts to the Children's Homes in Council Bluffs and Sioux City, as well as other church and conference activities.

"Be strong, all ye people of the land, saith the Lord, and work: for I am with you, saith the Lord of hosts." (Haggai 2:24)

Present officers include Evangeline Carstensen, president; LaDonna Linman, vice- president; Ruth Russell, secretary-treasurer; and Eleanor Linquist, Barbara Johnson and Eloise Brown, Sewing Committee.

YOUTH ACTIVITIES

Conference Youth Fellowship

The C.Y.F. can trace its ancestors back to 1898 when "Fridsforbundet" was organized with Rev. C. J. Ahlmquist as chair-man, B. A. Samuelson as secretary, and Oscar Anderson as treasurer. This organization was "to promote the spiritual and intellectual welfare of the young people through devotional services and literary meetings conducted for and by them."

Then the B.Y.P.U., the Baptist Young People's Union, carried on the work with the younger people in the church. During Rev. A. E. Carlson's Ministry, literary meetings, which featured discussions, debates, speeches, and musical numbers, were instituted and extended. Early in the history of the B.Y.P.U., meetings were held weekly on Friday evenings. The organization was also responsible for one Sunday evening service each month for many years.

The present C.Y.F. was organized in September 1952, in the Arthur Lindberg home with Marilyn English as president; Harlan Fries, vice-president; and JoAnn Cautrell, secretary. Members included Audrey Belstene, Eldon Belstene, Stanley Fries, Harlan Fries, JoAnn Cautrell, Kay English, Marilyn English, and Lloyd Segerstrom. Mrs. Willard Cautrell opened the meeting and served as advisor to the group.

Meeting in the homes on the first Monday evening of the month, the group has endeavored to have a spiritually helpful program in addition to the social times and parties which promote unity and fellowship. The group annually goes Christmas carolling. Financial contributions have been made to missions, local church projects, and state and national youth projects. Our C.Y.F. has participated in Tri-County Youth activities in the area, and has been active in state youth meetings. In September of 1958 our C.Y.F. combined with the Kiron Baptist C.Y.F., and in the following March sponsored the Iowa Young People's Sports Weekend.

Present officers include Linda Kay Carstensen, president, and Dean Barker, secretary-treasurer.

Girls' Missionary Guild

The Girls' Missionary Guild was organized in 1950 with Harriet Blomquist as the first leader. Meetings are held once a month with a social hour at the close of the meeting.

Programs and projects have included memory work such as Bible verses and drills; handwork such as White Cross, piecing quilts, making stuffed toys and scrap books for mission fields, children's homes and hospitals. Dish towels have been made for Pine Lake camp. Each year a different mission field is studied, and the offerings are channeled to that field during the period of study. Mission fields studied include the Philippines, Japan, Mexico, and the American Indian.

A reading program has been carried on with prizes for local, state, and national winners. In one national missionary quiz, Margaret Gustafson placed fourth.

Leaders since the group was organized include Evangeline Carstensen, Barbara Johnson, Laurel Forsman, Edna Olson and Goldie Palm. Present leaders are Eloise Brown and LaDonna Linman.

Three years ago the Kiron and Arthur guilds combined and now meet together monthly.

Jet Cadets

The Jet Cadets, a junior youth group, was organized in October 1955 with Pastor and Mrs. R. W. Forsman and Lloyd Segerstrom as sponsors. There were sixteen members when the group was organized, and meetings were held every other Sunday evening at 6:30 p.m. At the present time meetings are held on the first and third Thursday evenings of the month.

The Jet Cadets can advance their rank of office by Scripture memorization, securing new members, making reports, doing service projects, and carrying out other assignments. Bible drill is one of the favorite events in the meetings.

Money has been sent to the Bethel Library, Sunny Ridge Children's Home, Pine Lake Camp, as well as given for church playground equipment. Packages have been sent to the Don Hesse children in Peru.

Sponsors for the group have included Mrs. Duane Johnson, Mrs. Oscar Olson, and Donald Bergman in 1956, Pastor David Brown, Mrs. Milford Barker, and Marion Linman in 1957, Mrs. Duane Johnson, Mrs. Donald Bergman and Milford Barker in 1958, Mrs. Duane Johnson, Mrs. Jules Carstensen and Oscar Olson in 1959, and Mrs. Jules Carstensen, Mrs. Duane Johnson, and Lloyd Segerstrom in 1960.

Present officers include Vicki Johnson, Log Keeper; James Barker, Paymaster; Dean Barker, pianist; and Ronald Bergman, song leader.

Boys' Athletics

Since 1957 the boys of the church have participated in various types of athletics on a team basis. During the summer months the boys have gotten together and played baseball games with neighboring churches and local teams. During the winter months the boys of the church have played basketball on a weekly basis, practicing on Saturday mornings and playing in the Kiron school league on Monday evenings. For the past two years the team has taken first place in the basketball league. The basketball team has also played neighboring churches and participated in the state C.Y.F. Sports Weekend. Pastor Brown has supervised these activities.

FAMILY FELLOWSHIP

In 1951 the B.Y.P.U. was reorganized to form a family organization now known as Family Fellowship. The organization name, describes the nature of the group, which is designed to encourage participation of the entire family.

Meetings, which were originally held on the last Friday evening of each month, have been changed to the last Sunday evening of each month. The programs include a devotional emphasis, and are planned to provide a variety of material helpful to all members of the family. In May the women and girls either take a tour, such as the one to Shenandoah this year, or have a banquet or tea. In June a family picnic with a short program is the schedule. Tent meetings, in combination with other evangelical Tri-County churches, are held in July or August. The men and boys share a program or banquet usually in February. These are in addition to the regular programs.

Family Fellowship has contributed to the Temperance Union, to the Pacific Garden Mission, the Sioux City Gospel Mission, to Billy Graham, to Pine Lake Camp, to home and foreign missionary projects, and to local church projects.

Present officers are Myron Segerstrom, president; Mrs. Dennis Lindberg, secretary; and Duane Johnson, treasurer.

Congregation in 1960
1960 Church Officers
Pastor ---------------------------------------------------- David C. Brown
Vice-Chairman -------------------------------------------- Dennis Lindberg
Clerk (Secretary) ---------------------------------------- Barbara Johnson
Treasurer ----------------------------------------------- Myron Segerstrom
Organist ------------------------------------------------------ Ruth Olson
Head Usher ------------------------------------------------ Milford Barker
Deacons ------------------------------ Oscar Olson, Ernest Olson, Art Palm
Arvid Gustafson, Dennis Lindberg, Dick Carstensen
Deaconesses ------------- Hazel Lindberg, Hazel Belstene, Esther Samuelson
Trustees ---------------------------------- Milford Barker, Donald Bergman
John Fries, Art Palm, Joe Samuelson
75th Anniversary Committees Program Committee
Ruth Olson, chairman Marian Sonichsen, Oscar Olson, Myron Segerstrom, Evangeline Carstensen

Publicity and Invitation Committee Barbara Johnson, chairman Dennis Lindberg, Carl Sonichsen, LaDonna Linman, Eleanor Linquist

Historical Committee Evelyn Johnson, chairman Hazel Lindberg, Myrtle Barker, Lucile Fries, Hazel Belstene

Housing Committee Mabel Lindquist Gladys Lindberg

Social Committee Edna Olson, chairman Leila English, Eleanor Linquist, Alma Bergman, Agnes Gustafson, Hazel Segerstrom

REFERENCES AND FOOTNOTES TO 75TH ANNIVERSARY HISTORY

1-p. 13, A Centenary History by Adolf Olson, published 1952.
2-p. 147, Eighty Years of Swedish Baptist Work in Iowa by L. J. Ahlstrom, published 1933.
3-p 6, Seventy-Fifth Anniversary of The First Baptist Church, Kiron, Iowa by S. Bruce Fleming, published 1943.
4-p. 8, The Golden Jubilee of The Fiftieth Annual Swedish Baptist Conference of Iowa, Introduction by L. J. Ahlstrom, published 1933.
5-p. 8-9, 60 Years of History of The Arthur Baptist Church by Evelyn Johnson, published 1945.
6-p. 239, Ahlstrom, op. cit.
7-p. 10, Johnson, op. cit.
8-p. 241, Ahlstrom., op. cit.
9-p. 14, Johnson, op. cit.
10-p. 21, Ibid.
11-p. 21, Loc. cit.
12-p. 18, Ibid.
13-p. 17, Ibid.



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