As First Church of Christ, Scientist - Terre Haute, Indiana, prepares for the Centennial of the laying of our cornerstone, the following is a chronology leading up to that event. Most of the following is taken directly from the Board of Trustees minutes and the official church history.
Following the Centennial, August 6, we'll begin working on where this leaves off - with the construction and architecture of the building itself, it's demise, demolition, and reconstruction.
Following the Centennial, August 6, we'll begin working on where this leaves off - with the construction and architecture of the building itself, it's demise, demolition, and reconstruction.
In the spring of 1895, Mr. (Capt.) George Prescott of Terre Haute was healed of stomach trouble through Christian Science. It was this healing that led he and his wife to take Christian Science Class Instruction and began to hold Sunday services in their home. It was at these services Miss M. Elizabeth Wright was also healed, and attendance at these meetings began to grow. After the Prescott’s moved to Logansport, Miss Wright began to hold services in her home until they grew too large and from 1899 onward rooms were rented for the church services and a Reading Room was established.
Then, in 1913, a lot was purchased in the city’s most fashionable neighborhood for the erection of a church edifice. This lot was later sold and the lot at 6th and Swan, where the Pugh home was located, was purchased in December 1918, for $10,250. Here our church edifice was commenced. The corner of this structure was laid at six o’clock, Saturday morning, August 6, 1921.
In the intervening years, a Building Committee was formed, and numerous meetings of the Committee, Board and Members were held to discuss moving forward with the new edifice. Below are transcriptions of the minutes of the meetings at which it was decided to proceed with building, selecting of an architect, raising funds for the building, and other necessities:
November 10, 1919
A special meeting of the resident members of First Church of Christ, Scientist Terre Haute was held at 8 o’clock P.M.
The purpose of this meeting was that the members might have the privilege of examining the preliminary sketches and plans prepared by Mr. Cheney (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howard_Lovewell_Cheney), a Chicago architect, for a new church edifice, and to formulate ways and means by which the necessary supply would be forthcoming.
Mr. Blye presented considerable data on the subject, bringing out the thought in a forceful manner that no one person, nor the Board of Trustees was going to build our Church, but that each individual member has his or her specific work to perform, and that the building of a Church will depend largely on the individual effort of the members.
Slips of paper were passed to the members present for them to pledge the amount they will give in 1920 to build a new Church edifice. It was explained that those who were not ready to pledge at this time could do so later, but were requested to do so at their earliest convenience.
The slips were passed and collected and nearly $7,000 ($91,553.70 in 2021 dollars) was pledged at this time.
December 1, 1919
"It was moved by Blye and seconded by Mrs. Oakley that Johnson & Miller Architects be asked to submit preliminary plans & sketches for a new Church Building with seating capacity of about 900 to cost not to exceed $75,000. Carried.
Moved by Miss Wright seconded by Blye that the same proposition be submitted to Mr. Stanhope, Architect, of Chicago. Motion carried."
[Leon Stanhope designed Eleventh Church of Christ, Scientist - Chicago (2840 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago), 1916.
Johnson & Miller's design would later be selected as the final design for the original edifice of First Church - Terre Haute.]
January 5, 1920
A communication from Johnson, Miller & Miller Architects was read acknowledging receipt of our request for preliminary plans and specifications for a new church edifice.
A communication was read from L. E. Stanhope architect of Chicago, stating that he declined to enter into competition with other architects to furnish preliminary plans and specification for a new church edifice.
February 20, 1920
The Board met in special session on above date at 8 o’clock P.M., in the Reading Room with all members present. Mr. Viquesney presided.
The meeting was opened by reading from S&H, and silent prayer followed by the audible repetition of the Lord’s Prayer.
The Chair announced the object of the meeting to look over and discuss more fully the Church plans recently received from Johnson & Miller, Architects., and to hear suggestions as whether they fully met our requirements, or whether changes would be desired.
Mr. Arthur R. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee, was called upon and gave a very helpful talk along the lines of financing, offering or suggesting a plan of bonding, after a certain sum is raised.
Mr. Cook, Mr. Koerner and others gave helpful suggestions, in fact the plans were very thoroughly discussed.
It was moved and seconded that the plans be discussed with a view to instruct the Building Committee to proceed at once with definite working plans to build a new Church edifice. Motion carried.
It was moved by Mrs. Hymer, seconded by Mrs. Oakley that a meeting of the Church membership be called for Thursday night, March 4th, 1920. Motion carried.
March 5, 1920
A special meeting of the church membership was held in the church auditorium on above date at 8 o’clock PM.
The meeting was opened by singing Hymn 86 and reading from S&H, followed by silent prayer and audible repetition of the Lord’s Prayer.
The chair announced the object of the meeting to examine and discuss the new plans prepared by our local architects, Johnson, Miller & Miller, with a view of accepting or rejecting same, also to accept or reject the plans of the Building Committee for financing the building proposition.
The Clerk read the report of the Building Committee, and Mr. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee explained several changes which had been made in the plans.
After considerable discussion the congregation viewed the plans and Mr. Koerner explained them in detail, also making some comparisons with former plans presented by another architect.
After further discussion by members of the congregation it was moved by Miss Wright, seconded by Mrs. Deming, that the plans, both building and financial, as accepted by the Board be accepted by the Church. Motion Carried.
There were some further remarks and suggestions regarding changes in plans for Sunday School classrooms. This was left with the Building Committee to work out.
Adjournment was then taken after concert repetition of the Scientific Statement of Being.
March 17, 1920
[…]
The suggestion of the Building Committee that a copy of the building proposition including the financial plan, [etc.}, as adopted at the Church meeting of March 5th, 1920, be sent to each member of the Church, with full explanation was adopted. It was also decided to recommend that the full $13,500 needed when the building commences be forthcoming, instead of dividing it and asking for $8,500 as first recommended.
[…]
It was also decided to hang blue prints and perspective of Church in our present meeting place for the inspection of the congregation.
[It was during this time that a controversy involving the publishing of “some literature” caused this Branch Church (and others) to discontinue selling anything other than Mrs. Eddy’s writings in the Reading Room, and to withdraw their card from the Journal, and sending copies of the Resolutions stating the same to the Christian Science Board of Directors. Several meetings were held with the sole purpose of deciding what, if anything, would continue in the Reading Room, and to read aloud Resolutions from other Branch Churches.]
May 14, 1920
[…] A meeting of the Church members was held May 14, 1920 at 8 o’clock P.M., in the church auditorium.
The meeting was opened by singing a hymn and reading from Science and Health, followed by silent prayer and the audible repetition of the Lord’s Prayer.
Chairman Viquesney stated the object of the meeting to be to hear a report from the Building Committee.
Mr. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee, outlined the progress made by the Architects with the working plans and also gave his views as to what is necessary for the church to do financially and otherwise by August 1st.
Also recommended two Building Fund Sundays for June and Two in July to bring the supply and resources up to the necessary amount. …
June 7, 1920
…
After discussing the request of the Building Committee for two Building Fund Sundays in June and July, it was moved and seconded that the last two Sundays in June be designated as Building Fund Sundays. Motion Carried.
July 6, 1920
The Building Committee, through its chairman reported progress and asked for two Building Fund Sundays in July, which was granted.
August 6, 1920
The Board met in special session on above date at the usual time and place for the purpose of resuming consideration of the Church Plans. All members present, Mr. Viquesney presiding.
…
Consideration of the kind of heating plant to be installed in our new church was immediately taken up, the Building Committee having recommended hot air, principally on account of the saving of approximately $10,000 which it would mean, that being the difference in cost of installing between forced steam heat and the hot air system.
After considerable discussion as to the merits and relative cost of each heating system it was moved by Mr. Cook, seconded by Mrs. Hymer that the architects be instructed to change the specifications and plans to install the forced steam heat instead of hot air. Motion Carried.
*and that we ask for alternate bids on the steam and hot air heat.
August 27, 1920
The Board met in special called session on above date, at the customary time and place, all present but Mrs. Kensigner. Mr. Viquesney in the chair.
The meeting was opened in the usual way.
Mr. Viquesney stated that since our last meeting he had obtained considerable data on the heating proposition, which he explained at some length.
The matter of deciding on the kind of Contract which we wished to enter into for the construction of the church was taken up and discussed at some length, and it was finally decided to ask for competitive bids.
It was moved by Mr. Koerner, seconded by Mr. Cook, that the architects be instructed that the contractor will be expected to furnish bond covering 75% of the cost of construction. Motion carried.
September 6, 1920
…
The chair suggested that separate minutes be kept of all activities and transactions relative to our building proposition. This was approved.
The entire August collection (except 28cents) was given to the Church Building Fund to complete the $500.00 donated by the Sunday School.
… the Chairman of the Building Committee had returned the Church plans to the architects to be changed for steam heat.
It was decided to have the grass and weeds cut on the church lot.
September 15, 1920
…
The Chair also stated that Mr. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee had advised him that the architects would have the plans for the Church ready soon.
It was decided that Mr. Koerner should notify the architects to ask the Ainsworth Construction Co., and also Contractor Caton to submit bids on the Church.
October 18, 1920
…
Mr. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee, announced the bids received for building of our Church, and they were all exceedingly high.
The Committee recommended letting the contract for building the foundation and basement this fall and winter to the lowest bidder for that work, Wm. Caton and Son, and next spring if conditions seem favorable, asking for new bids on the superstructure.
After considerable discussion on the subject it was moved and seconded that we approved the recommendations of the Building Committee and recommend same to the Church body for their approval or rejection. Motion carried.
October 20, 1920
A special meeting of the Church membership was convened on above date immediately after Wednesday evening service, with 60 members present.
…
The Chair announced the object of the meeting to hear the report of the Building Committee as accepted by the Board and to act on same.
Mr. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee, read the report which included the bids received for construction of the Church building and also the Committee’s recommendation that we proceed to let the contract for constructing the foundation and basement to the lowest bidder for that work, and next spring, if conditions are favorable, to ask for new bids on the superstructure.
After considerable discussion it was moved by Mrs. Stone and seconded by Mr. Stone that we accept the Committee’s recommendation to go ahead and build the foundation and not make any provision for the superstructure at present. Motion carried.
October 25, 1920
…
Mr. Kling presented the contract between the Board of Trustees of First Church of Christ, Scientist and Wm. Caton & Son, for the construction of the foundation and basement of the church.
After some discussion the contract was signed by the members present.
November 1, 1920
…
Mr. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee. Reported that he had investigated the reports of the connection of the contractor, Caton & Son, with the R. C. [Roman Catholic] thought, and found them groundless.
After considerable discussion and the hearing of further repots of R.C. influence, the matter was left to the Committee to handle and further investigate and hear the stories from those who claim to have information on the subject.
The Building Committee was authorized to furnish proper book for the Treasurer in which h to keep the Building accounts.
November 6, 1920
A special meeting of the Board of Trustees was called and met Saturday November 6, 1920, at 9:15 p.m., in the Reading Room, to discuss a rumor that had been circulating pertaining to the contract for our Church foundation.
All members of the Board were present except Mr. Blood; Mrs. Kensinger acting as clerk in his absence. Miss Elizabeth Wright, Mrs. Kohn, Mrs. Case, and Mr. Stone were invited to attend and were present at the meeting.
The rumor referred to was the claim the R.C. was using Mr. Wm. Caton and Son, the firm to whom the contract for our Church foundation had been let, as a tool, thereby endeavoring to undermine our Church. This subject was handled in a very thorough manner and many helpful experiences related. It was finally decided to continue with the contractor as originally planned but to be more alert in the future.
December 8, 1920
At an informal meeting of the Board held Dec. 8th, immediately after Wednesday evening service the bill of Wm. Caton & Son, for first payment on contract for the Church foundation, was allowed and ordered paid, same being $6,000.00.
It was also decided to send a financial statement to the Church members showing the amount of funds on hand, amount due on pledges and what will be necessary to meet future payments as they come due.
January 3, 1921
…
The Bill of Wm. Caton & Son, for $6,000.000, second payment on church foundation work was read and on motion of G.R. Blood, seconded by Mrs. Bone, was accepted, subject to the approval of the Building Committee.
After discussion of the Building proposition, it was moved and seconded that the third and fifth Sundays of January be set aside, the entire collection of each to be devoted to the Building Fund. Motion carried.
January 6, 1921
…
It was moved by Mrs. Barhyde (sic), seconded by Mrs Gilman that the Building committee be increased from 4 to 9 members, the new members to be appointed by the Board from members of the Church other than Board members, carried.
March 7, 1921
…
On motion by Mr Viquesney, seconded by Mr. Kling, check for $2500.00 was ordered paid to the contractor on the foundation of the new church building.
April 4, 1921
…
The report of the building committee read by Mr Kling was accepted including a letter drafted by the building committee to be sent to the Church members and friends advising them of the state of building operations at sixth and Swan Sts.
It was moved by Mr Kling, seconded by Dr Vaughan, that a meeting of the Church members on building conditions be called on Thursday evening April 21st, and that the clerk be instructed to ask Mr Hale for a later date early in May. Approved.
April 21, 1921
A special meeting of the members of First Church of Christ, Scientist was held in the Church auditorium on the evening of April 21st, with 43 members present – Chairman Stone presiding.
The meeting was opened with singing of hymn No 161 and reading from Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy and the audible repetition of the Lord’s Prayer.
The recommendation of the Building Committee was read by Mr Kling advising that the completed structure with furnishing and organ would cost $150000.00, that $30000.00 of this had already been given and that this amount be augmented by $20000.00 more which would give cash resources of $50000.00, against which we could borrow the additional amount to complete the Building.
A general discussion followed, Mr Case and Mrs Barhydt spoke on the advantage of finishing the basement complete and using the Sunday School auditorium for a Church home until we demonstrated the amount required to go ahead with the superstructure rather than incur so large a debt at a high rate of interest. Several other members told of having visited Churches where the basement weas used while the superstructure was in course of construction, and were favorable to this plan.
On request of Mrs Barhydt the Clerk read an article on Church Building by Archibald McClellen (sic) in the Journal of August, 1917.
It was moved by Mrs Deming seconded by Mrs Barhydt, that the basement be completed and furnished and used for our Church services, carried. It was stated by the Chairman of the Building committee that about sixty days would be required for completion of this.
The meeting adjourned with the audible repetition of the Scientific Statement of Being.
- Ada Bone, clerk
Mary 2, 1921
…
It was moved and seconded that the report of the Building Committee on plans for the completion of the Basement for occupation be concurred in.
The claim of Wm. Caton & Sons was ordered paid.
…
The suggestion from the Building committee that during the months of June, July and August, two Sundays in each month be devoted to the Building Fund was deferred to unfinished business, for June meeting.
June 6, 1921
…
It was moved and seconded that $500.00 be paid to Wm Caton to apply on Church Building.
It was decided that two Sundays a month, the collections be devoted to Building fund.
July 5, 1921
..
The Chairman of the Finance Committee reported that the estimated cost of finished basement will be approximately $21000.00 or $22000.00 and recommended that this be brought before the Church meeting and arrangements made at once to raise this amount.
July 7, 1921
…
Mr Viquesney, Chairman of the Finance Committee, reported that $600.00 was still due on the foundation and urged that this be taken care of at once, and that a discount will be given on material if paid for in thirty days.
The Building Committee report as read by Mr Kling was concurred in and Mr Viquesney asked for suggestions from the members as to the best procedure to raise the $20,000 necessary to complete the basement within the next sixty days.
Mrs. Barhyde (sic) suggested that the condition be placed before the congregation the Sunday preceding Building Fund Sunday.
On movement of Mrs Barhyde(sic), duly seconded, the Building committee was authorized to prepare a notice to be read at the close of the Sunday service, making a statement covering the proceedings up to this time.
Mr Kling moved that the Church authorize the Building Committee to take whatever steps were necessary as conditions arise in the process of Building. Carried.
Mr. Viquesney recommended that a loan of $20,000.00 be arranged for to promptly pay for Building expenses, same to be for three years, with the privilege of paying off any part of same at any time. After a discussion it was moved by Mr Kling that the Finance Committee be empowered to make such loan and financial arrangements deemed necessary. Mortgage to be given on the Church property, supplemented by the signatures of a number of the Church members acceptable to the Bank extending the loan. Carried.
August 1, 1921
It was moved by Mr Kling, seconded by Mrs Hymer, that the Chairman of the Finance Committee be authorized to negotiate for the Church with the T.H. Savings Bank, a note at 30 days for $8000.00 the same to be retired when long term mortgage or note is negotiated, carried.
It was moved by Mr Kling, seconded by Mrs Hymer, that the Treasurer be authorized to make final payment for construction of foundation after the Finance Committee has checked the account with the contractor and reported balance, carried.
Moved and by Mr Viquesney, seconded by Mr Kling, that a ledger be bought and account or record kept of all Building transactions, carried.
…
The Building Committee recommended that the corner stone be laid on Saturday, Aug. 6th, 1921 at 6 o’clock A.M. in the presence of members of Board of Trustees, Building committee, and First and Second Readers, the ceremony to be in accordance (sic) with the proceedings of the Mother Church, as set forth on page 16 of The First Church of Christ, Scientist and Miscellany. Mr Kling moved the adoption of report and Mrs Adamson seconded it. Carried.
Moved by Miss Reichert, seconded by Mrs Hymer, that the literature put in the corner stone be selected copies printed before the trouble in Boston started before 1919, carried.
Miss Reichert was appointed to select literature.
Moved by Mr Viquesney, seconded by Miss Reichert, that all contributions to the Building Fund from outsiders of the Church be acknowledged.
August 6, 1921
The corner stone of First Church of Christ, Scientist was laid on Saturday morning at 6 o’clock, August [6th], 1921.
Mr George Blood, First Reader of the Church read the service which was taken from page 16 of First Church of Christ, Scientist and Miscellany by Mary Baker Eddy, Mrs Malinda Oakley second Reader, lead the audible repetition of the Lord’s Prayer.
Others present were eight members of the Board of Trustees and six members of the Building committee, besides the Architect and stone masons. Mrs Adamson, clerk, was absent from the City.
Those present-
George Blood First Reader,
Mrs Malinda Oakley Second Reader and member of Building Committee.
Frank Stone Chairman of Board of Trustees,
Mrs Hymer member of Board of Trustees,
Mrs Stella Adamson member of Board of Trustees,
Miss Emma Reichert member of Board of Trustees,
Mrs Davis member of Board of Trustees,
Dr J.C. Vaughan member of Board of Trustees,
Arthur Kling member of Board of Trustees and Building Committee
Mr Bert Viquesney member of Board of Trustees,
Dr H.D. Caton member of Building Committee,
Miss Elizabeth Wright member of Building Committee,
Mrs Georgia Stone member of Building Committee
List of contents of corner Stone
Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy
Miscellaneous Writings by Mary Baker Eddy
First Church of Christ, Scientist and Miscellany by Mary Baker Eddy
Unity of Good and other writings by Mary Baker Eddy
Christian Healing and other writings by Mary Baker Eddy
Christ and Christmas by Mary Baker Eddy
Poems by Mary Baker Eddy
Manual by Mary Baker Eddy
Holy Bible
Quarterly
Hymnal
Mother Church
Der Herald
Le Heraut
Sentinel
Journal
Monitor
J. C. Vaughan, Acting Clerk
The basement unit of our church edifice, the Sunday school room, was completed, and for eight years all the regular services were held in this room, beginning on the first Sunday in November, 1921.
During the completion of the other units all the regular services were held in the basement of Zorah Shrine Temple on North Seventh Street from Sunday, February 16, 1930, until the opening of the new church.
The cost of this church property, including grounds, building, furniture, installation of the organ, etc.., has been $165,000. ($2,610,000 in 2021 dollars). The Aeolian Skinner Organ was a gift of Mr. Carl Stahl. The church is still in possession of much of the original paperwork for procuring this organ.
The church edifice was destroyed by fire on November 2, 1981. On June 7, 1982, permission was received from the city of Terre Haute to rebuild a church edifice on the present location at 329 South 6th Street. The membership selected design-build contractors Earl C. Rodgers and Associates, Inc. to erect the new structure. The building was removed and the Aeolian-Skinner organ was sold to E.H. Holloway Corporation of Indianapolis.
The first services in the new edifice were held on Easter Sunday, April 3, 1983.
Building Fund Balance:
January 1, 1920: $2,559.83 ($33,935.67 adjusted for inflation in 2021)
July 1, 1920: $10,379.93 ($137,606.33 adjusted for inflation in 2021)
September 6, 1920: $10,705.02 ($141,916.16 adjusted for inflation in 2021)
November 1, 1920: $11,266.59 ($149,359.99 adjusted for inflation in 2021)
January 3, 1921: $11,403.63 ($151,177.53 adjusted for inflation in 2021)
Then, in 1913, a lot was purchased in the city’s most fashionable neighborhood for the erection of a church edifice. This lot was later sold and the lot at 6th and Swan, where the Pugh home was located, was purchased in December 1918, for $10,250. Here our church edifice was commenced. The corner of this structure was laid at six o’clock, Saturday morning, August 6, 1921.
In the intervening years, a Building Committee was formed, and numerous meetings of the Committee, Board and Members were held to discuss moving forward with the new edifice. Below are transcriptions of the minutes of the meetings at which it was decided to proceed with building, selecting of an architect, raising funds for the building, and other necessities:
November 10, 1919
A special meeting of the resident members of First Church of Christ, Scientist Terre Haute was held at 8 o’clock P.M.
The purpose of this meeting was that the members might have the privilege of examining the preliminary sketches and plans prepared by Mr. Cheney (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howard_Lovewell_Cheney), a Chicago architect, for a new church edifice, and to formulate ways and means by which the necessary supply would be forthcoming.
Mr. Blye presented considerable data on the subject, bringing out the thought in a forceful manner that no one person, nor the Board of Trustees was going to build our Church, but that each individual member has his or her specific work to perform, and that the building of a Church will depend largely on the individual effort of the members.
Slips of paper were passed to the members present for them to pledge the amount they will give in 1920 to build a new Church edifice. It was explained that those who were not ready to pledge at this time could do so later, but were requested to do so at their earliest convenience.
The slips were passed and collected and nearly $7,000 ($91,553.70 in 2021 dollars) was pledged at this time.
December 1, 1919
"It was moved by Blye and seconded by Mrs. Oakley that Johnson & Miller Architects be asked to submit preliminary plans & sketches for a new Church Building with seating capacity of about 900 to cost not to exceed $75,000. Carried.
Moved by Miss Wright seconded by Blye that the same proposition be submitted to Mr. Stanhope, Architect, of Chicago. Motion carried."
[Leon Stanhope designed Eleventh Church of Christ, Scientist - Chicago (2840 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago), 1916.
Johnson & Miller's design would later be selected as the final design for the original edifice of First Church - Terre Haute.]
January 5, 1920
A communication from Johnson, Miller & Miller Architects was read acknowledging receipt of our request for preliminary plans and specifications for a new church edifice.
A communication was read from L. E. Stanhope architect of Chicago, stating that he declined to enter into competition with other architects to furnish preliminary plans and specification for a new church edifice.
February 20, 1920
The Board met in special session on above date at 8 o’clock P.M., in the Reading Room with all members present. Mr. Viquesney presided.
The meeting was opened by reading from S&H, and silent prayer followed by the audible repetition of the Lord’s Prayer.
The Chair announced the object of the meeting to look over and discuss more fully the Church plans recently received from Johnson & Miller, Architects., and to hear suggestions as whether they fully met our requirements, or whether changes would be desired.
Mr. Arthur R. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee, was called upon and gave a very helpful talk along the lines of financing, offering or suggesting a plan of bonding, after a certain sum is raised.
Mr. Cook, Mr. Koerner and others gave helpful suggestions, in fact the plans were very thoroughly discussed.
It was moved and seconded that the plans be discussed with a view to instruct the Building Committee to proceed at once with definite working plans to build a new Church edifice. Motion carried.
It was moved by Mrs. Hymer, seconded by Mrs. Oakley that a meeting of the Church membership be called for Thursday night, March 4th, 1920. Motion carried.
March 5, 1920
A special meeting of the church membership was held in the church auditorium on above date at 8 o’clock PM.
The meeting was opened by singing Hymn 86 and reading from S&H, followed by silent prayer and audible repetition of the Lord’s Prayer.
The chair announced the object of the meeting to examine and discuss the new plans prepared by our local architects, Johnson, Miller & Miller, with a view of accepting or rejecting same, also to accept or reject the plans of the Building Committee for financing the building proposition.
The Clerk read the report of the Building Committee, and Mr. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee explained several changes which had been made in the plans.
After considerable discussion the congregation viewed the plans and Mr. Koerner explained them in detail, also making some comparisons with former plans presented by another architect.
After further discussion by members of the congregation it was moved by Miss Wright, seconded by Mrs. Deming, that the plans, both building and financial, as accepted by the Board be accepted by the Church. Motion Carried.
There were some further remarks and suggestions regarding changes in plans for Sunday School classrooms. This was left with the Building Committee to work out.
Adjournment was then taken after concert repetition of the Scientific Statement of Being.
March 17, 1920
[…]
The suggestion of the Building Committee that a copy of the building proposition including the financial plan, [etc.}, as adopted at the Church meeting of March 5th, 1920, be sent to each member of the Church, with full explanation was adopted. It was also decided to recommend that the full $13,500 needed when the building commences be forthcoming, instead of dividing it and asking for $8,500 as first recommended.
[…]
It was also decided to hang blue prints and perspective of Church in our present meeting place for the inspection of the congregation.
[It was during this time that a controversy involving the publishing of “some literature” caused this Branch Church (and others) to discontinue selling anything other than Mrs. Eddy’s writings in the Reading Room, and to withdraw their card from the Journal, and sending copies of the Resolutions stating the same to the Christian Science Board of Directors. Several meetings were held with the sole purpose of deciding what, if anything, would continue in the Reading Room, and to read aloud Resolutions from other Branch Churches.]
May 14, 1920
[…] A meeting of the Church members was held May 14, 1920 at 8 o’clock P.M., in the church auditorium.
The meeting was opened by singing a hymn and reading from Science and Health, followed by silent prayer and the audible repetition of the Lord’s Prayer.
Chairman Viquesney stated the object of the meeting to be to hear a report from the Building Committee.
Mr. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee, outlined the progress made by the Architects with the working plans and also gave his views as to what is necessary for the church to do financially and otherwise by August 1st.
Also recommended two Building Fund Sundays for June and Two in July to bring the supply and resources up to the necessary amount. …
June 7, 1920
…
After discussing the request of the Building Committee for two Building Fund Sundays in June and July, it was moved and seconded that the last two Sundays in June be designated as Building Fund Sundays. Motion Carried.
July 6, 1920
The Building Committee, through its chairman reported progress and asked for two Building Fund Sundays in July, which was granted.
August 6, 1920
The Board met in special session on above date at the usual time and place for the purpose of resuming consideration of the Church Plans. All members present, Mr. Viquesney presiding.
…
Consideration of the kind of heating plant to be installed in our new church was immediately taken up, the Building Committee having recommended hot air, principally on account of the saving of approximately $10,000 which it would mean, that being the difference in cost of installing between forced steam heat and the hot air system.
After considerable discussion as to the merits and relative cost of each heating system it was moved by Mr. Cook, seconded by Mrs. Hymer that the architects be instructed to change the specifications and plans to install the forced steam heat instead of hot air. Motion Carried.
*and that we ask for alternate bids on the steam and hot air heat.
August 27, 1920
The Board met in special called session on above date, at the customary time and place, all present but Mrs. Kensigner. Mr. Viquesney in the chair.
The meeting was opened in the usual way.
Mr. Viquesney stated that since our last meeting he had obtained considerable data on the heating proposition, which he explained at some length.
The matter of deciding on the kind of Contract which we wished to enter into for the construction of the church was taken up and discussed at some length, and it was finally decided to ask for competitive bids.
It was moved by Mr. Koerner, seconded by Mr. Cook, that the architects be instructed that the contractor will be expected to furnish bond covering 75% of the cost of construction. Motion carried.
September 6, 1920
…
The chair suggested that separate minutes be kept of all activities and transactions relative to our building proposition. This was approved.
The entire August collection (except 28cents) was given to the Church Building Fund to complete the $500.00 donated by the Sunday School.
… the Chairman of the Building Committee had returned the Church plans to the architects to be changed for steam heat.
It was decided to have the grass and weeds cut on the church lot.
September 15, 1920
…
The Chair also stated that Mr. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee had advised him that the architects would have the plans for the Church ready soon.
It was decided that Mr. Koerner should notify the architects to ask the Ainsworth Construction Co., and also Contractor Caton to submit bids on the Church.
October 18, 1920
…
Mr. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee, announced the bids received for building of our Church, and they were all exceedingly high.
The Committee recommended letting the contract for building the foundation and basement this fall and winter to the lowest bidder for that work, Wm. Caton and Son, and next spring if conditions seem favorable, asking for new bids on the superstructure.
After considerable discussion on the subject it was moved and seconded that we approved the recommendations of the Building Committee and recommend same to the Church body for their approval or rejection. Motion carried.
October 20, 1920
A special meeting of the Church membership was convened on above date immediately after Wednesday evening service, with 60 members present.
…
The Chair announced the object of the meeting to hear the report of the Building Committee as accepted by the Board and to act on same.
Mr. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee, read the report which included the bids received for construction of the Church building and also the Committee’s recommendation that we proceed to let the contract for constructing the foundation and basement to the lowest bidder for that work, and next spring, if conditions are favorable, to ask for new bids on the superstructure.
After considerable discussion it was moved by Mrs. Stone and seconded by Mr. Stone that we accept the Committee’s recommendation to go ahead and build the foundation and not make any provision for the superstructure at present. Motion carried.
October 25, 1920
…
Mr. Kling presented the contract between the Board of Trustees of First Church of Christ, Scientist and Wm. Caton & Son, for the construction of the foundation and basement of the church.
After some discussion the contract was signed by the members present.
November 1, 1920
…
Mr. Kling, Chairman of the Building Committee. Reported that he had investigated the reports of the connection of the contractor, Caton & Son, with the R. C. [Roman Catholic] thought, and found them groundless.
After considerable discussion and the hearing of further repots of R.C. influence, the matter was left to the Committee to handle and further investigate and hear the stories from those who claim to have information on the subject.
The Building Committee was authorized to furnish proper book for the Treasurer in which h to keep the Building accounts.
November 6, 1920
A special meeting of the Board of Trustees was called and met Saturday November 6, 1920, at 9:15 p.m., in the Reading Room, to discuss a rumor that had been circulating pertaining to the contract for our Church foundation.
All members of the Board were present except Mr. Blood; Mrs. Kensinger acting as clerk in his absence. Miss Elizabeth Wright, Mrs. Kohn, Mrs. Case, and Mr. Stone were invited to attend and were present at the meeting.
The rumor referred to was the claim the R.C. was using Mr. Wm. Caton and Son, the firm to whom the contract for our Church foundation had been let, as a tool, thereby endeavoring to undermine our Church. This subject was handled in a very thorough manner and many helpful experiences related. It was finally decided to continue with the contractor as originally planned but to be more alert in the future.
December 8, 1920
At an informal meeting of the Board held Dec. 8th, immediately after Wednesday evening service the bill of Wm. Caton & Son, for first payment on contract for the Church foundation, was allowed and ordered paid, same being $6,000.00.
It was also decided to send a financial statement to the Church members showing the amount of funds on hand, amount due on pledges and what will be necessary to meet future payments as they come due.
January 3, 1921
…
The Bill of Wm. Caton & Son, for $6,000.000, second payment on church foundation work was read and on motion of G.R. Blood, seconded by Mrs. Bone, was accepted, subject to the approval of the Building Committee.
After discussion of the Building proposition, it was moved and seconded that the third and fifth Sundays of January be set aside, the entire collection of each to be devoted to the Building Fund. Motion carried.
January 6, 1921
…
It was moved by Mrs. Barhyde (sic), seconded by Mrs Gilman that the Building committee be increased from 4 to 9 members, the new members to be appointed by the Board from members of the Church other than Board members, carried.
March 7, 1921
…
On motion by Mr Viquesney, seconded by Mr. Kling, check for $2500.00 was ordered paid to the contractor on the foundation of the new church building.
April 4, 1921
…
The report of the building committee read by Mr Kling was accepted including a letter drafted by the building committee to be sent to the Church members and friends advising them of the state of building operations at sixth and Swan Sts.
It was moved by Mr Kling, seconded by Dr Vaughan, that a meeting of the Church members on building conditions be called on Thursday evening April 21st, and that the clerk be instructed to ask Mr Hale for a later date early in May. Approved.
April 21, 1921
A special meeting of the members of First Church of Christ, Scientist was held in the Church auditorium on the evening of April 21st, with 43 members present – Chairman Stone presiding.
The meeting was opened with singing of hymn No 161 and reading from Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy and the audible repetition of the Lord’s Prayer.
The recommendation of the Building Committee was read by Mr Kling advising that the completed structure with furnishing and organ would cost $150000.00, that $30000.00 of this had already been given and that this amount be augmented by $20000.00 more which would give cash resources of $50000.00, against which we could borrow the additional amount to complete the Building.
A general discussion followed, Mr Case and Mrs Barhydt spoke on the advantage of finishing the basement complete and using the Sunday School auditorium for a Church home until we demonstrated the amount required to go ahead with the superstructure rather than incur so large a debt at a high rate of interest. Several other members told of having visited Churches where the basement weas used while the superstructure was in course of construction, and were favorable to this plan.
On request of Mrs Barhydt the Clerk read an article on Church Building by Archibald McClellen (sic) in the Journal of August, 1917.
It was moved by Mrs Deming seconded by Mrs Barhydt, that the basement be completed and furnished and used for our Church services, carried. It was stated by the Chairman of the Building committee that about sixty days would be required for completion of this.
The meeting adjourned with the audible repetition of the Scientific Statement of Being.
- Ada Bone, clerk
Mary 2, 1921
…
It was moved and seconded that the report of the Building Committee on plans for the completion of the Basement for occupation be concurred in.
The claim of Wm. Caton & Sons was ordered paid.
…
The suggestion from the Building committee that during the months of June, July and August, two Sundays in each month be devoted to the Building Fund was deferred to unfinished business, for June meeting.
June 6, 1921
…
It was moved and seconded that $500.00 be paid to Wm Caton to apply on Church Building.
It was decided that two Sundays a month, the collections be devoted to Building fund.
July 5, 1921
..
The Chairman of the Finance Committee reported that the estimated cost of finished basement will be approximately $21000.00 or $22000.00 and recommended that this be brought before the Church meeting and arrangements made at once to raise this amount.
July 7, 1921
…
Mr Viquesney, Chairman of the Finance Committee, reported that $600.00 was still due on the foundation and urged that this be taken care of at once, and that a discount will be given on material if paid for in thirty days.
The Building Committee report as read by Mr Kling was concurred in and Mr Viquesney asked for suggestions from the members as to the best procedure to raise the $20,000 necessary to complete the basement within the next sixty days.
Mrs. Barhyde (sic) suggested that the condition be placed before the congregation the Sunday preceding Building Fund Sunday.
On movement of Mrs Barhyde(sic), duly seconded, the Building committee was authorized to prepare a notice to be read at the close of the Sunday service, making a statement covering the proceedings up to this time.
Mr Kling moved that the Church authorize the Building Committee to take whatever steps were necessary as conditions arise in the process of Building. Carried.
Mr. Viquesney recommended that a loan of $20,000.00 be arranged for to promptly pay for Building expenses, same to be for three years, with the privilege of paying off any part of same at any time. After a discussion it was moved by Mr Kling that the Finance Committee be empowered to make such loan and financial arrangements deemed necessary. Mortgage to be given on the Church property, supplemented by the signatures of a number of the Church members acceptable to the Bank extending the loan. Carried.
August 1, 1921
It was moved by Mr Kling, seconded by Mrs Hymer, that the Chairman of the Finance Committee be authorized to negotiate for the Church with the T.H. Savings Bank, a note at 30 days for $8000.00 the same to be retired when long term mortgage or note is negotiated, carried.
It was moved by Mr Kling, seconded by Mrs Hymer, that the Treasurer be authorized to make final payment for construction of foundation after the Finance Committee has checked the account with the contractor and reported balance, carried.
Moved and by Mr Viquesney, seconded by Mr Kling, that a ledger be bought and account or record kept of all Building transactions, carried.
…
The Building Committee recommended that the corner stone be laid on Saturday, Aug. 6th, 1921 at 6 o’clock A.M. in the presence of members of Board of Trustees, Building committee, and First and Second Readers, the ceremony to be in accordance (sic) with the proceedings of the Mother Church, as set forth on page 16 of The First Church of Christ, Scientist and Miscellany. Mr Kling moved the adoption of report and Mrs Adamson seconded it. Carried.
Moved by Miss Reichert, seconded by Mrs Hymer, that the literature put in the corner stone be selected copies printed before the trouble in Boston started before 1919, carried.
Miss Reichert was appointed to select literature.
Moved by Mr Viquesney, seconded by Miss Reichert, that all contributions to the Building Fund from outsiders of the Church be acknowledged.
August 6, 1921
The corner stone of First Church of Christ, Scientist was laid on Saturday morning at 6 o’clock, August [6th], 1921.
Mr George Blood, First Reader of the Church read the service which was taken from page 16 of First Church of Christ, Scientist and Miscellany by Mary Baker Eddy, Mrs Malinda Oakley second Reader, lead the audible repetition of the Lord’s Prayer.
Others present were eight members of the Board of Trustees and six members of the Building committee, besides the Architect and stone masons. Mrs Adamson, clerk, was absent from the City.
Those present-
George Blood First Reader,
Mrs Malinda Oakley Second Reader and member of Building Committee.
Frank Stone Chairman of Board of Trustees,
Mrs Hymer member of Board of Trustees,
Mrs Stella Adamson member of Board of Trustees,
Miss Emma Reichert member of Board of Trustees,
Mrs Davis member of Board of Trustees,
Dr J.C. Vaughan member of Board of Trustees,
Arthur Kling member of Board of Trustees and Building Committee
Mr Bert Viquesney member of Board of Trustees,
Dr H.D. Caton member of Building Committee,
Miss Elizabeth Wright member of Building Committee,
Mrs Georgia Stone member of Building Committee
List of contents of corner Stone
Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy
Miscellaneous Writings by Mary Baker Eddy
First Church of Christ, Scientist and Miscellany by Mary Baker Eddy
Unity of Good and other writings by Mary Baker Eddy
Christian Healing and other writings by Mary Baker Eddy
Christ and Christmas by Mary Baker Eddy
Poems by Mary Baker Eddy
Manual by Mary Baker Eddy
Holy Bible
Quarterly
Hymnal
Mother Church
Der Herald
Le Heraut
Sentinel
Journal
Monitor
J. C. Vaughan, Acting Clerk
The basement unit of our church edifice, the Sunday school room, was completed, and for eight years all the regular services were held in this room, beginning on the first Sunday in November, 1921.
During the completion of the other units all the regular services were held in the basement of Zorah Shrine Temple on North Seventh Street from Sunday, February 16, 1930, until the opening of the new church.
The cost of this church property, including grounds, building, furniture, installation of the organ, etc.., has been $165,000. ($2,610,000 in 2021 dollars). The Aeolian Skinner Organ was a gift of Mr. Carl Stahl. The church is still in possession of much of the original paperwork for procuring this organ.
The church edifice was destroyed by fire on November 2, 1981. On June 7, 1982, permission was received from the city of Terre Haute to rebuild a church edifice on the present location at 329 South 6th Street. The membership selected design-build contractors Earl C. Rodgers and Associates, Inc. to erect the new structure. The building was removed and the Aeolian-Skinner organ was sold to E.H. Holloway Corporation of Indianapolis.
The first services in the new edifice were held on Easter Sunday, April 3, 1983.
Building Fund Balance:
January 1, 1920: $2,559.83 ($33,935.67 adjusted for inflation in 2021)
July 1, 1920: $10,379.93 ($137,606.33 adjusted for inflation in 2021)
September 6, 1920: $10,705.02 ($141,916.16 adjusted for inflation in 2021)
November 1, 1920: $11,266.59 ($149,359.99 adjusted for inflation in 2021)
January 3, 1921: $11,403.63 ($151,177.53 adjusted for inflation in 2021)