Historical Collections Volume 1

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1900 Excerpt: ...when Father Van Pamel of Grand Rapids commenced the work. The original building was completed and the first service held in it in 1857. It was known as St. Mary's church. Since that time several additions and improvements have been made. The first resident priest in Muskegon was Father Stonehouse, who settled here in 1857. Father Rievers has occupied his present position eleven years. In 1843 Rev. Mr. Warring of the Presbyterian Church made a visit to Muskegon, when Mr. Ryerson, having fitted up seats in his boarding house, went around and notified the people of the proposed service. The settlers were all present, including an old man who was very much under the influence of liquor. The minister was preaching when the man went in, and saying something in regard to the Jews; and as the old man passed along he chimed in, "and gentiles too." No notice was taken of this intrusion, and he took his seat on the stairs that led to (he floor above. He soon, however, began to respond very loudly, not with the word amen, but instead the Indian on-in-day. Mr. Woodbury, who was sitting near, often making repeated attempts to keep him quiet, took him by the collar and pulled him up stairs, and the service proceeded in an orderly manner. At the close a collection was taken amounting to 7.50. This was the first Frotestant service held in Muskegon. From this time until 1850 several ministers, who were here on a visit or otherwise held services, several of whom came at the request of Rev. Wm. M. Ferry, of Grand Haven. Among them was the Rev. Mr. Wheeler, win: came a number of times in the winter of 1844-5, and held services in the boarding house occupied by Mr. Maxim. In the spring of 1850 an agreement was made with Eev. Mr. Reynolds of the Congregational chu...