People's Pilot, Volume 5, Number 17, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 17 October 1895 — LAYING OF CORNER STONE. [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

LAYING OF CORNER STONE.

The ceremonies of laying the corner stone were entertaining, instructive and a success in every particular. Indeed there can be no more favorable commentary upon the efforts of Ur Rondthaler and all who participated, than to say that the whole proceeding was a gratifying success. The procession formed at the corner of Front and Washington streets in the following order: Band, Elders, Trustees, and Visiting Clergymen, Y. P. S. C. E., I. O. O. F.. Daughters of Rebecca, Fireman in Uniform. After a selection by the Citizens’ Cornet Band, the invocation was offered by Rev. B. F. Ferguson, and “Nearer, My God, to Thee,” was sung by the congregation. Rev. McKee, of Remington, then read from the scriptures, prayer was offered by Rey, R.

Archibald Purcupile, deceased, was born Nov. 10, 1818, in Pittsburg, Penn., and located in Rensselaer, Indiana, in the fall of 1855, where he engaged in merchantile business. He had an extensive acquaintance and established a lasting friendship with all. For over forty years he was a member of the Masonic fraternity, and devoted much time and study to its cherished teachings. In the latter portion of his life he was a member of the Presbyterian church. Archibald Purcupile was married to Elizabeth Howe, daughter of Henry Howe of Akron, Ohio. April 14. 1846. Five sons and four daughters were the result of this union, all of whom are still living but one. Frank living in New York city, John and Edgar in Omaha, Henry in Rensselaer. Mrs. Z. Dwiggins in lowa, Mrs. F. J. Sears, Mrs. J. F. Hardman and Mrs. A F. Long living in Rensselaer.

D. Utter, an anthem was given by the choir, followed by scripture reading by Rev. Voiiva. Rev. M. R. Paradis delivered an able talk on “Why do we build this church?” The speaker dwelt upon the increase of the congregation in membership and wealth, the lack of room in the old edifice and the prospects for growth in a new temple. The movement for a new church began among the people. That the church was not being erected from vain motives but from necessity. The address was interesttng throughout. After a medley by the band Hon. S. P. Thompson delivered an interesting address on, “Is a Church a Profitable Financial Investment?” a theme suited to the occasion and well handled. When Rev. Dr. Rond thaler commenced his address there was $2,300 to raise; when he closed there was but $571 unpledged. Figures express the effect of his efforts more forcibly than words. Dr. Rondthalor has been aptly called the “Indiana Cyclone.” Too much cannot be said in praise of his efforts on this occasion. The formal laying of the corner stone was then proceeded with. Mrs. M. R. Paradis officiating. Mr. W. B. Austin announced the contents of the corner stone to be photographs of the several pastors of the church, copy of the program of this occasion, history of the church, constitution of the Rensselaer Fire Company, also 260 names collected by Mrs. Agnes Kelley, and numerous other appropriate and interesting articles. The meeting closed with the benediction. Special thanks is due to the Citizens’ Band and different orders for kindly participating in the ceremonies, and also for their dollars as societies. The beautiful silver trowel used by Mrs. Paradis in the ceremony of the corner stone laying was presented to her as a testimonial of high esteem by the Ladies’ Industrial Society, of which she is a devoted member.

The ladies of this society deserve especial commendation for their untiring industry and sacrifice for the new church. To their generous gift of SSOO they have now added a subscription of a like sum, making one thousand dollars in all. .A specialty’ in portiers, rugs and table linens at Emporium. Mrs. Lecklider always keeps the latest styles in millinery at the Emporium.

A very interesting letter was received from Miss Elizabeth Smith, one of the few living charter members of the Presbyterian church of Rensselaer, containing a sketch, referring to an interesting experience in this county in 1865, from the book, “Happy Life” by Mary Davies Steele, which could not be inserted owing to lack of space. Novelties in chinaware at extraordinary low prices, 10c, 15c. 25c. 35c, 50c. 75c and $1 each atj the Emporium.

ARCHIBALD PURCUPILE.