In the early 1800's a group of German settlers moved into Hardin County, and by 1839 had formed a congregation of devout Christians.

These devout men and women were permitted to have services in our first county court house. Services were held there until the court house burned to the ground in 1851.

Now the congregation was confronted with a momentous decision, should they disband? After much thought, and many prayers, the decision was made to build a church.

Work began at once and by the end of 1851 a small, brick church was completed. The first minister was Reverend J. Harmann.

One unique feature of this church was its tall, slender steeple, which held a stately rooster high on its lofty peak. And so, the church became known as "The Rooster Church."

The congregation grew and by the late 1890's thoughts were centered on building a beautiful, large church, which is St. John's today. Dedication services, for this milestone in the life of St. John's, were held in 1903.

As we think back to those early pioneers, many of whom are ancestors of today's members, we are grateful for their steadfast devotion to their church, and a challenge for us to continue on, with love and caring for others.

Eleanor Flesvig