Donovan

Donovan is located off of US Highway 52 northwest of Iroquois and just east of both Matinton and Pittwood in Iroquois County.

(I have not been able to find much information on this town so if anyone has any information I would be most appreciative of any contributions)

Donovan Friendly Class

The Friendly Class of the Donovan Methodist Church was comprised of the Women's Sunday School Class. The first record found is a secretary's book, dated April, 1950-1965, and the Iroquois Farmers' State Bank deposit book, first entry, AMy 19, 1944-August 14, 1965.

The class meetings were held in homes and opened with a prayer. Their devotions were taken from various sources, such as the Bible, Upper Room, poems, publication for the occasion, and speakers. After the business meeting, they were enteretained with contests and games. Refreshments were served by the hostesses.

"Secret Paul" were remembered at birthdays and other occasions as desired. Local shut=ins and Sunset Home residents were remembered withcards, and flowers were given for a member of spouse's death.

At Christmas time they had a party with a 24cents gift exchange which was later changed to 50 cents. THey presented the minister's wife with a $10 check. One year they all attended the Passion Play at Bloomington, Illinois.

These women were very energetic, paid dues, and helped their organization with money making projects. One project was canning fruits and vegetables for the Baby Fold. They were packed in barrels and taken to the depot to be shipped. They served lucheons at Shewami Country Club, served luncheons at the church, held silent autions at some of their meetings, sold canilla and pepper, and saved labels from Hills Bros. coffee cans to get a free coffee urn. They contributed to the church treasury, church building fund, Bible school, Chaddock Boys School, church choir, and Methodist Women's group. When they closed their bank account the total sum of $21.29 was donated to the church choir.

After a successful "Maxwell Street Rummage Sale and Fish Fry" held in 1961, the event became an annual affair. The church supper is still an annual event, with the addition of the Swedish rye bread auction sale.

The Friendly class worked diligently through the years, however, they decided to disband in August of 1965. There were 14 members at that time; nine charter members.

(from pages 49-50 Iroquois County History transcribed by Carrol Mick)