Smithville Historical Society welcomes Oak Grove members
The Smithville Community Historical Society program on July 1 will be presented by members of the Oak Grove Mennonite Church telling the story of their 200-year-old congregation.
The Smithville Community Historical Society will hold its July 1 general meeting at the Historic Church of God at 7 p.m.
A brief business meeting will be held to bring membership up to date on the campaign to secure funds for the repair and updating of the group’s buildings. The next open house also will be discussed. It will be held on July 21 with the Orrville Community Band presenting its summer concert on the greens across from the Church of God, along with a Vintage Base Ball game and ice cream social.
The program for the evening will be presented by members of the Oak Grove Mennonite Church telling the story of their 200-year-old congregation. The Oak Grove Church started as an Amish religion church, meeting with about 25 families in their homes. Many names were among some of the first settlers of Green Township: David Zook, first bishop, and Christian Brandt, first minister in 1866.
Brandt purchased 160 acres in 1862 that would become the site for Oak Grove Meeting House. In its early years many members were involved in farming, so it became a tradition they would share seeds and plants for planting in the spring to ensure each family had sufficient food sources.
In the fall the church celebrated Harvest Home/Homecoming, acknowledging their abundance and God’s blessing in their lives. This is still done today, but they also receive monetary donations from members, which are used to help families that are less fortunate.
At Christmas an a cappella presentation of Handel’s “Messiah” is preformed by the congregation for the public.
Levi Miller of Wooster wrote a book, “Sketches of God’s Faithfulness, Oak Grove Mennonite Church 1818-2018,” which reveals more of the church’s history.
At the meeting the members will present historic artifacts to view. The church membership is known for its a cappella singing and will sing some familiar songs. Other members may join in on an old-fashion hymn sing.
Hosts for the evening are Nita Downey and Diane Miller.