County of church: Gasconade County
Location of church: 2nd St. & Madison St., Owensville
Built: 1906
Architectural Style: Gothic Revival
"The Presbyterian Church has served the Owensville community for many years
"The Presbyterian Church is a large white frame structure of an irregular plan shape. It has a
square bell tower with a spire. Construction features of this building include a cement
foundation, frame board, and a shingle roof. The Presbyterian Church is an example of
modified Victorian Gothic architecture." ~ DNR Historic Survey, PDF pages: 385-388 [link below]
Historic Markers inside old church:
"The Presbyterian Church of Owensville
When the Rock Island Railroad came through Owensville in 1904, business establishments soon followed. The surrounding cities, primarily of German culture began to change.
"There became a desire among English-speaking people in the area for a church where English would be spoken. On October 4th, 1906, a group met at Joshua Tappmeyer's home to propose and organize the first 36 charter members of The Presbyterian Church of Owensville
"1906-1934
August 1906 - Work on church began
October 14, 1906 - laying of cornerstone
January 13, 1907 - Building ready for use
May 19, 1907 - Dedication held
Charter Members - 36
May 20, 1907 - Dr. E.J. Brown installed as pastor
1912 - Manse built
1914 - Electricity added
1916 - Entrance installed
1962-2008
October 21, 1962 - Pastor's study, choir room and basement were added and dedicated
Membership - 124
1991 Remodeling and repair work for 85th anniversary celebration.
'"We had the largest Sunday School in town when he was a boy, because we were the only English Sunday School. His father sent him to our Sunday School because he thought practicing English was important. That's why there were so many children whos parents were not member of the church".
A church member retells the story of Rev. Hawthorne Boesch
"'I shall have fond memories of going to Sunday School, singing in the choir, and being part of the Christmas plays."
Jhan Knehans - July 31, 1991
While I was taking a few outside photos, the current owner asked what I was doing. I told him, and he invited me inside. I met his lovely wife, and they told the tales of this beautiful church, now their home.
They have kept almost everything inside intact.