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 St.
Paul’s German Reformed Church was organized about
thirty-three years ago. The congregation was located two miles east of
Sharon, and was presided over by Rev.
L. I. Mayer. He remained with it about eight years, at the
same time preaching for the “Jerusalem” congregation in Hickory
Township, which he also organized. He was succeeded by Rev. J. H. Stepler, now of
Lima, Ohio, who remained nearly nine years. In 1873 Rev. F. B. Hartzmetz, now of
Archibald, Ohio, began his pastorate, which also continued nearly nine
years. During his administration St. Paul’s congregation bought a lot
on Sharpsville Street, in Sharon, and erected the present frame, house
in 1874, at a cost of about $4,000, including the lot. In March, 1882,
the late pastor, Rev. K. Grüenstein,
began his ministry here. In 1883 he concluded that a parsonage was
needed. Obtaining the consent of his congregation he set to work, and
in five weeks had $700 secured for that purpose, and erected the house
which adjoins the rear end of the church. The present membership is 165
confirmed, and 138 unconfirmed. Jerusalem congregation, at Hickory, was
joined with Sharon until September, 1882, and was ministered to by the
same preachers. Since that time it has been a separate charge.
History of Mercer County, 1888, page 392
The
German Reformed have a large congregation, and a comfortable house of
worship, but we have no date whereby we can give any account of the
society.
History of Mercer County,
1877, page 117
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