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History of Friedens Church:
1923-1924

Read on March 12, 2000

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      On April 8, 1923, Rev. Dippel had tendered his resignation, and on May 20, 1923 Rev. Niedernhofer was chosen by a secret ballot at a special meeting.
      On January 17, 1924, a chili supper was given by the men of the church and during this social gathering a Brotherhood organization was temporarily established with the aid of the E. St. Louis and Collinsville Brotherhoods. Henry Bernhardt, Jr. was appointed President, and Wm. S. Weber, Secretary. These appointed officers then received applications and succeeded by getting a total of 22 members. This became a permanent organization on January 24, 1924. At this meeting, Rev. Niedernhofer read scripture passages and offered prayer.
      On January 24, 1924, the men met and after reading the constitution of the E. St. Louis Brotherhood instituted their own constitution with some deletions and additions. The election of officers was Henry Bernhardt, President; A. F. Schurman, VicePresident, Wm. S. Weber, Secretary and Fred Pape for Treasurer. The following committee chairman were chosen: Jule Gaertner, Membership; Elmer Schaake, Entertainment; Leonard Schurman, Visitations; Charles Bangert, Devotionals.
      During the Brotherhood meeting of May 1, 1924, it was decided that picnic season was close at hand and that on June 15th "a big picnic shall be given!" George Wilhelm, H. G. Pape and H. Schaake were on the appointed committee.
      On June 8, 1924, a special meeting to discuss only the picnic; then another special meeting was scheduled for June 10th. On June 10th, a motion was made and duly seconded to postpone said picnic!
      On December 5, 1924, the Ladies Aid suggested to the Brotherhood the purchasing of 2 hogs to be used for meat and sausage at the meals given on the day of the Golden Jubilee. Mr. Deimling offered to furnish meat and sausage at cost - as good as this may sound, there was much discussion and finally a motion was made and seconded that a committee of three buy either hogs or hams and make the sausage! Which they did. Also at this time a motion was made and carried to order 150 Elmhurst hymnals, and that the presidents of all classes and organizations serve as a committee for the 50th anniversary.