Madison County Churches

The new United Brethren church, 4 1/2 miles southeast of Winterset, to be known as Providence Chapel, was dedicated to the service of God, October 7, 1894, by our presiding elder, Rev. W. F. Cronk, assisted by our worthy pastor, G. H. Chew. After securing subscriptions sufficient to justify us in building a house of worship, J. M. Eskew, J. G. Breeding and G. H. Kinnaird were elected trustees, and on the 21st of August the building was commenced and by diligent work was creditably finished October 6th. The building is 28 by 40 feet with a 14 foot seiling. The interior is finely finished in natural wood, oiled and well furnished. The church is a credit to our community. The cost was about $1000. We were deficient about $200 to make full payment.

Providence Chapel

Photo courtesy of Madison County Historical Museum

Rev. W. F. Cronk preached an eloquent sermon on "The Glory of the Temple and the Living Church of Christ". He then presented our needs to the people, and as our house was filled to overflowing they promptly responded to our call and in about thiry minutes $325 was secured, which will cover all expenses. The presiding elder then proceeded with the dedicatory services, delivering the key with a solemn charge to the trustees. M. Powell, Secretary.¹

The last item regarding the Providence Chapel appeared in the Winterset Reporter in August of 1912. It is likely that this church, so like many others in that era closed down shortly thereafter. The photo abvoe would appear to be after the chapel had been abandoned. The building was likely torn down or moved and re-purposed.

People other than those listed above who have been associated with Providence Chapel include George M. & Luella Grout, William C. Maxwell, Lulu M. Barber, Rev. R. L. Chapman. Rev. Charles Hoover, Rev. J. L. Hayden, Rev. King, Rev. Evelyn, Rev. Hobson, and Rev. Miller.

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Sources: 1. The Winterset News, Winterset, Iowa, October 12, 1894