The first Christian Church was in the old town of Peru and was sold in May of 1898 so that a more convenient church could be built in East Peru. It was built by Harry Martin of East Peru for $1800.  The building was dedicated December 18, 1898. It was located south of the railroad tracks.

But the fate of the Christian Church was short lived. Many members died, some moved away and the congregation was eventually gone. On March 11, 1922, the contents of the church were sold at an auction.

After the partitions were torn out, basketball hoops were put up and the youths and adults played basketball in the building. Later, the old church was completely remodeled and turned into a residence.¹

Christian Church - East Peru

Other than the article in the 1987 Winterset Madisonian, no church history has been found. Some member's names have been found by virtue of information obtained in obituaries. They include Aaron Hiatt (a founding member), Serena Jane Hiatt, Iver Foster, Mrs. W. A. Vines, Mrs. Theodore Beardsley, Albert Brisbane Vines, and William and Louisa Fenimore.

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