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
