One of two churches which comprise the
Mineral County United Methodist Parish, the Superior United Methodist Church was dedicated on August 1st, 1915. The church was dedicated to its major benefactor, Isabelle A. Reeves. In the bell tower hangs a bell, also dedicated to Isabelle, dated June 4, 1889. We take this to mean that a first Methodist Church existed in Superior prior to this one.
The church rests on a concrete foundation, details in which indicate that, in all likelihood, the narthex was added at a later date, while the two rear transepts were built at the same time as was the sanctuary. There are several stained glass windows in the sanctuary, one of which, now covered by the narthex, was placed in the front wall. It was dedicated to Isabelle A. Reeves.
A third transept, nearer the front of the sanctuary, connects to a steeple/bell tower which stands apart from the main body of the church. This causes us to wonder if the bell tower, rather short and broad, with exposed rafter tails and a pyramidal hipped roof, wasn't part of the earlier church. The open sides of the belfry reveal the Isabelle A. Reeves bell, likely cast iron, now painted silver and beginning to show some rust.
A newspaper article of August 6, 1915, describing the dedication of the church, follows.
M. E. CHURCH DEDICATED
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1915
Large Crowd Attend Impressive Service Held Last Sunday.
ALBERTON CHURCH NEXT
The dedication services of the Methodist Episcopal church, held last Sunday, were very impressive and largely attended. The church was profusely decorated about the altar with sweet peas and daisies which were donated by Mrs. J. C. Lieb. A large portrait of Miss Reeves held a prominent place among the flowers.
The services were conducted by Rev. Edward Smith, district superintendent, assisted by the local pastor, Rev. Rollin A. Smith. At the communion services in the morning the beautiful communion set, a special gift of Miss Reeves just before her death, was used for the first time.
The dedication address was given at 2:30 p. m., Rev. Smith speaking at some length on the value of the church in a community, he also spoke of the life, and efforts of Miss Reeves, who made this church possible.
The following is a list of funds collected from all sources: Memorial fund, Chicago, $738 85; Board of Home Missions, $250; other outside sources, $190; local contributions, $428; total $1601.85. There is about $250 more needed to free the church from debt.
The material for a similar church at Alberton is already on the ground and Rev. Smith expects to have this church dedicated before winter sets in.
From The Mineral Independent