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| Hoosier church marking sesquicentennial in 2010 |
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NOBLESVILLE, Ind. — Clarksville Christian Church is located northeast of Indianapolis, five miles east of State Road 37, just off State Road 38 at 16600 Lehr Street in Noblesville – right in the middle of a farming community.
On March 18, 1860, a meeting resulted in the founding of the Clarksville Christian Church. From 1860-67, the church was without a home. Meetings were held at a neighboring church a short distance west from Clarksville.
In 1867 a plot of ground was deeded to the trustees, on which a church was built. It was dedicated the last Sunday in August 1867. The members of the church called themselves Disciples and their creed was simple: “No creed but Christ.”
Around 1915 plans were discussed for adding another room to the present building. This was known as the Sunday School Room. The ladies of the church refurbished the interior with paper, carpet, pews and new pulpit furniture. In the summer of 1918 the church added a modern convenience: Electric lights.
In 1929 the trustees, with other members assisting, donated their labor and put a new roof on the church. These were times when money was scarce, but hearts were full of love for the work of the Lord.
April 1, 1934, was the first Easter Sunrise Service for Clarksville, and that continues today.
During extensive remodeling in 1947, the church was raised and a basement placed under the entire structure. A new kitchen was added and for the first time, running water. In the spring of 1962 construction began on the educational wing. This consisted of a chapel with a baptistery, office, two classrooms and restrooms on the upper level and six classrooms and storage space on the lower level.
In 1970 the church sanctuary was completely renovated, including new pews, carpet, lights and electric heat. In November 1973 plans were discussed for remodeling the dining room. This was quite extensive and was completed in time for the annual Smorgas-Buffet.
When the project was finished, the church had a lovely fellowship hall. In 1976, 1.74 acres west of the church was purchased for additional parking.
The church was 100 years old in 1960. After much research and planning, the Clarksville Christian Church Centennial was held on Oct. 2, 1960.
August 2010 will mark the 150th anniversary of Clarksville Christian Church. Plans are for a yearlong celebration. It is our fervent prayer that the work of the Clarksville Christian Church will continue for many years, in love and fellowship in Christ’s name.
-Barb Lawson |
| 3/17/2010 |
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