History of Canton Christian Church

"On June 8, 1850, an organizational meeting was held at Canton, with 23 residents forming a congregation 'taking the Bible alone for the rule and practice of their faith.' They were joined by four others the next week, and in the following weeks, more were added by baptism or transfer." (p.13)

"In April 1851, a Sunday School was organized with W.T. Jones was superintendent."

"In 1855 , construction began on the first church building to house the Canton Christian Church. A brick structure was built at what is now the northwest corner of Sixth St. and Henderson Ave." (p.15)

"On the night of Oct. 9, 1874, the Canton Christian Church burned quickly... All that could be saved were a communion decanter and four chalices. These were lost for many years, but were found at Culver-Stockton College in 1967. They are now encased at the rear of the sanctuary." (p. 20-21)

"By Oct. 18, the first committee reported they had purchased land at the northeast corner of Sixth and College streets for $450 cash. Three days later, plans were submitted by the building committee for a two-story building with Sunday School, baptistery, library and sexton’s room in the basement and a large audience room upstairs, and a tower in the center of the front.” (p.22) “At a congregational meeting on Sept. 20, 1876, the building committee reported that the lot has cost $450, building costs were $8113.25, furnaces were $310.53, and with other costs, the total came to $9159.53. The church’s debt was $2568.95; of that $2383 was owed to Lewis County Savings Bank." (p.25)

In December 1961, property was purchased on the north side of the building for a parking lot.

October 30, 1965 the new education wing was dedicated. "In preparation for that event, Rev. Griggs discussed the sacrifices some had made in giving to that project in the Oct. 28 newsletter: 'There is always the temptation to build for immediate needs, but the present facility should take care of our education program for years to come … It is with appreciation for our 166 year heritage and an abiding faith in the future of this congregation that we dedicate this new facility.'" (p.65)

Excerpts from Proud to be Disciples, by George R. Lee