Early Churches of Washington, Illinois

Submitted By: Jim Richmond
Naperville, Illinois

The information was collected by Jim Richmond. Thank You very much Jim!

NOTE: The comments in square brackets following my initials, JMR, are mine, and are not part of the original reference. Sources are listed at the end of the page.


"Methodist Church.--

The first religious society was organized in 1828, by Jesse Walker, a Methodist preacher. The meeting was held at William Holland's cabin.  His family and that of James Harvey, constituted most of the society at that time.  In 1840, they built the old church, near the corner of Jefferson and Main streets, which is now fast passing into decay.  This denomination erected their present place of worship, on the corner of Walnut and Pine streets, in 1866.  A complete history of which we were unable to secure on account of lost records." Source- 3


The Christian Church of Washington, Illinois

"had it's beginning in the little school house one-half mile northwest of the city
in 1832, known as the "Old Central School", located on the "Squire Baker farm"". Source 2.

"The meetings were held in "Old Central School" at what is now 601 North Wilmore Road.  In 1834, it offically began under the leadership of Pastor Richard B. McCorkle.  It was the second church organized in Washington." Source 1.

"Christian Church.--

In 1832, the Christian Church was organized by Richard B. McCorkle, in the school-house on the 'Squire Baker farm. Of its members we find:

[JMR: the McClure's deeded the Baker Cemetery, SW 1/4 - NW 1/4, Section 14 of Washington Township, to the County Commissioners of Tazewell County on 22 June 1849, a parcel of land 8.5 rods by 5 rods,containing 1/4 acre, to be used and appropiated as a public burying ground.]
Source- 4

[JMR:  John Henry Johnson and Martha Oliva McCorkle Johnson
(daughter of Richard B.and Isabelle.]

The first church building was built of brick and was erected in 1851.  The congregation became too large for it, and it was sold to the Germans, and Nov. 28, 1869, the second edifice was dedicated.  This was burned Feb. 17, 1870; fire caused by a defective flue.  Another and the third building was erected, which was dedicated Aug. 28, 1870, and Oct. 29, 1876, was burned, being set on fire by lightning.  The congregation, not dishearted, erected another, which was dedicated July 29, 1877.  The congregation has expended, on the several housed, about $32,000.  The present membership is about 150. 

The officers are:

  Those who have preaached regularly here are:

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