Goshen Moravian Church Records

Collection

Identifier: Mss 41

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The Goshen Moravian Church Records consist of a 579-page typed transcription of the pastor’s diaries from 1918 to 1950 and several subject files. Throughout its history the Goshen pastor kept a daily diary of church and work related events. The early years were recorded in German, but in May 1918, English was used. The transcription was done in 1954 by the NDSU staff from the original volumes. As stated in its 75th Anniversary booklet, “The Diaries kept by the ministers reflect the daily life of the Goshen Community in those years and give a picture of life in what was still pioneer territory”. The diaries cover the pastorates of Rev. G.A. Heidenreich (1918-1923, and 1930-1936), Rev. W.C. Schattschneider (19231930), Rev. John Fliegel (1936-1945), and Rev. Howard H. Nelson (1945-1950). The diaries cover church events, weather, and pastoral visits. The original records were very complete and all were transcribed. The Subject Files Series contain only several incidental items. Included is a financial list, by member, from 1934, several newspaper clippings, including one in German, and various programs including one for the Casselton Moravian Church.

Dates

1915-1953

Creator

Goshen Moravian Church (Durbin, N.D.) (Organization)

Language of Materials

English and German.

Access

The collection is open under the rules and regulations of the Institute.

Copyrights

Copyrights to this collection remain with the church.

History

In the 1870s, chinch bugs were devouring the crops in Winona County, Minnesota. Some people left their farms there and went to North Dakota from whence favorable reports had reached them. In the spring of 1878, a small group of Moravian families, originally from Germany, settled near Casselton, North Dakota. Late in May of that year, Reverend Henry Reusswig of Bethany, Minnesota visited the settlers and on May 24, 1878 organized the Goshen Moravian Church. Because of the lack of German speaking ministers, they did not receive a permanent pastor until 1881 when Reverend Frank E. Wolff arrived. Prior to this, services had been held in homes and the Goshen school. In 1880, the congregation bought 160 acres for a church farm and also built a parsonage. In 1884, the congregation built their church in Section 5 of Maple River Township. The Congregation flourished and was served by eleven pastors from 1881 to the 1950s. As the English speaking youth grew up, it was realized that English language services were needed. Such services were introduced in 1929 at two services a month. In 1938, only one German service was held a month, and in 1941, that was dropped. From a peak of 272 members in 1898, the membership of Goshen has dwindled to 91 communicant members in 1975.

Extent

0.4 Linear Feet (0.4 linear feet)

Additional Description

Provenance

Donated by Goshen Moravian Church. Diaries transcribed by the NDSU staff through the cooperation of Reverend Allen Lenius, Goshen Moravian Church, 1953-1954 (Acc. 114).