The Free Will Baptist Church was organized in 1864, at a meeting held at the Burnett House. Their church was built in 1855. Professor Dunn, now of Hillsdale College, Michigan, took the active management of organization and dedication, although Rev. Horace G. Woodworth was the first regular pastor. A Sabbath school was organized in connection with the church; Charles Cole being the first superintendent. Rev. R. W. Bryant is the present pastor, and Mr. A. M. Jones, superintendent of the Sabbath school.

From the History of Jo Daviess County H F KEET & CO 1878