The Second Methodist Episcopal Church, Moline
The Second Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in the year 1890 by
the Reverend Addis Albro, who was then pastor of the First Methodist
Episcopal Church, and Presiding Elder M. A. Head of the Rock Island
District. The United Brethren Church owned a building in Stewartville, and
their membership was fast becoming extinct, when they decided to dispose
of their church property. The building was purchased from the United
Brethren people, and steps were taken at once to organize a Second
Methodist Church in Stewartville, now known as South Moline. Into this new
organization were received forty-eight members from the First Methodist
Episcopal Church. The first pastor appointed was Reverend S. L. Guthrie.
During the first year, revival services were held and sixty-six members
were added to the roll. His pastorate was blessed with great results. The
second year plans were made to improve the building. A league room was
added at a cost of nearly $1,000. Reverend Guthrie was pastor two years.
In September, 1892, Reverend J. W. Edwards was appointed pastor, and
remained one year. Reverend Fletcher DeClark was appointed pastor in 1893.
He was followed in 1894 by Reverend W. H. Crane, who was pastor two years.
In 1896 Reverend R. G. Pearce was appointed pastor and remained one year
and six months; owing to failing health he re-signed. January 10, 1898,
Reverend A. H. Smith was appointed pastor and served the church two years
and six months. Reverend G. H. Thorpe was the next pastor taking up the
work June 2, 1900. Reverend C. C. McKown was appointed pastor September,
1900, followed by Reverend A. E. Ioder, September 23, 1901. September 26,
1904, the present pastor, Reverend D. S. Andrewartha, was assigned the
charge.
During all these pastorates the church has steadily made gains. The
members are earnest in their efforts, for the success of their church. At
present improvements are being made, and when completed, will put the
property in splendid condition, making it one of the most attractive
churches for its size in the City of Moline.
Churches of Rock Island County
Source: Historic Rock Island County, pub. Kramer & Company, Rock Island, Illinois, 1908