where each family was to tie their rig. The fence was to protect the horses from the strong cold north winds that was so characteristic of the High Prairie. ³⁹ This fence is no longer standing but can be seen in photo #1.

The church has room to seat around 100 people. It did not have conventional pews, but, rather, used theater seats. ⁴⁰ The original theater seats are still in use. Two stoves heated the church and a pump organ purchased through a fund‑raising drive provided music. ⁴¹

Total construction of the church was $2,000.00. The community financed the costs through contributions and a mortgage held by the Presbyterian Synod of a little less than $300.00. ⁴² The church was named The Sedalia Presby­terian Church.

Finally, on January 7, 1900 the church was dedicated. Dr. Gragg of Emporia College conducted the services assisted by Rev. J.T. Copeley of Manhattan and Rev. E.M. Poddleford of Riley. An unidentified news clipping recalled the day:

            The day was perfect as the sun shone brightly and the air had the breath of spring ... The choir sang with organ and coronet (accompaniment) ... The beautiful solos filled the house with melody and made all hearts rejoice in the divine gift of song and with the inspiring words of hope and cheer.

A collection of $200 was taken and over 100 guests ate a huge dinner prepared and served by the community women at the school house following the service. ⁴⁴

             In the years that followed the church was served by a number of ministers. Usually the ministers were from the Riley and Manhattan Presbyterian churches. When a

minister was not available, a member of the community would conduct the service. The ministers and the periods they served the church were: ⁴⁵

Rev. John McKeon                            circa 1890
Rev. William Campbell                       circa 1890
Rev. Stanton Olinger                      Sumner 1895
Rev. Maxwell Phillips     Fall 1895 ‑ Spring 1897
Rev. Stanton Olinger                     Summer 1897
Rev. Frank Breed                           1897 ‑ 1899
Rev. John Lopley                                       1900
Rev. Solomon Alt                           1900 ‑ 1903
Rev. Candlish Haswell                    1903 ‑ 1904
Rev. R.G. Knox                             1905 ‑ 1907
Rev. George Jackman                    1907 ‑ 1909
Rev. J.F. Moery                             1910 ‑ 1916

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