Francitas Churches

Francitas Church

The Union Church of Francitas, Texas

Francitas Church - Photo courtesy of W. R. Joines

Lincoln Avenue looking north. Church in background at right.

First Religious Services

The Rev. Mr. Bristor of Palacios, pastor of the Christian church and the owner of a farm in Francitas, delivered the first sermon and conducted the first religious service ever held in Francitas. The services were held both morning and evening in the large sale tent, and in the afternoon an experience meeting was conducted by the minister at which many interesting stories of southern Texas were told and the future was painted bright and rosy. In his morning address Mr. Bristor spoke of his life in the gulf coast country and the kind of men and women needed by such a colony. He advocated schools and churches even above orange trees and figs. He proposed that every contract holder relinquish his right to the revenue which was derived from the sale of the improved property and devote the proceeds to the building of a church and school. This proposition carried unanimously.

Mr. Bristor in his morning address told the settlers many things which he explained to them would be hard to believe, but which he knew to be true by experience. For instance he said the weather during July and August, the hot months of the north-west were pleasant months in this country and that during the past summer there had not been one unpleasant night. The days he said were hot but the nights were so cool that the man who worked could sleep and get his rest.

Mr. Bristor said Francitas waited men who do things and men who work, Francitas did not want any knockers or idlers. With the community settled by industrious, hard working Christian people, he said there would be no doubt of the steady growth and the development of the community.

The address pleased the crowd immensely and when the minister announced that he desired to be the first minister to preach a sermon in Francitas during the morning address; the consent was given with a hearty good will and unanimity.

Judge Adams of Lincoln , Nebraska made a short speech and on behalf of the congregation thanked the minister for his address after which A. D. Powers made a short statement in which he predicted the rapid development of Francitas if the advice of the minister was heeded.

The talks were interspersed with singing by the audience, the Christian church women of Palacios having brought over several hymn books.

Francitas Bee, December 15, 1910

The adoption of a resolution providing that the money derived from the sale of improved property turned over to the contract holders by the Valley Fruit Farm and Garden Company should be contributed by the contract holders to a sum to be used in constructing a school house and church was a move that should receive the sanction of all of us. To make this resolution of any force it will be necessary for us to relinquish any claims we have on this fund. The company will write each contract holder, sending him a blank to sign. This should be signed and returned at once. It means everything to Francitas right now.

Francitas Bee, December 15, 1910

New Church Building
W. F. Schwind Heads The Subscription List With $250 And A Lot.

Following religious services Sunday afternoon, conducted by the Rev. Mr. Story of Houston, a movement was started for a new church building. Mr. Story announced that he shortly intended to return to Francitas and construct a church building, duplicating the work he did along that line at Blessing.

Mr. Story made his announcement to Mr. Schwind who promptly gave it his endorsement and then pledged himself to pay $250 individually to the building fund and to donate a nice lot for the building.

Rev. Mr. Story has a splendid reputation as a builder of churches and only recently he lead the work for the construction of a church at Blessing. It is his intention to return to Francitas very soon and begin taking subscriptions for the money with which to pay for the building. Just how costly a church will be constructed has not yet been decided but it will be a structure which will last the city for a considerable time.

A large crowd attended the services Sunday, a great majority of them being men which, fact was commented on by the minister in his sermon. Sunday school which was held in the morning was attended by 47 persons, more than were present a week ago. The services were held in the new building constructed by Mr. Beaman.

Francitas Bee, January 12, 1911

New Church Sure
G. J. Phelps, S. C. Holton and Frank Kingham Elected Trustees to Look After Construction.

Within a very short time Francitas will have a church of considerable dimensions. The latter part of the week a number of those interested in the movement met in the office of the Valley Fruit Farm and Garden company to discuss plans for the construction of the building. After a short discussion it was decided to select a board of three trustees who will attend to the work from now on and who will look after the building and select the lot upon which it is to be erected. The board of trustees selected is composed of the following: G. J. Phelps, resident manager of the Valley Fruit Farm and Garden company; Frank Kingman and S. C. Holton.

The announcement was made at the meeting that more than $700 had already been raised to go into the building fund. This money was solicited by Mrs. Holton and Mrs. Kingham, and more than $400 of it was subscribed within four hours after they started out.

At the committee meeting S. C. Holton was elected chairman and Mrs. Arthur Kingham was elected secretary. The board of trustees will have full charge of the work in the future and as all three trustees are bustling good business men who do things, there is no doubt that within a very short time work will be started on the building.

Francitas Bee, January 26, 1911

"Guess and Eat."

The "Guess and Eat" social at the new depot Friday night was one of the most enjoyable entertainments yet held in Francitas. The large freight room was entirely inadequate to accommodate the crowd which attended and many had to stand on the platform. The night being warm however, the doors were left open and all could hear the delightful program.

Mrs. S. C. Holton imported the idea of the social from her Nebraska home and it was most original and enjoyable throughout, the guesses at what would be returned when an order for supper was given, causing much merriment.

The bill of fare consisted of 14 dishes all appropriately named, so the initiated said, but no one present could guess all of them. The bill of fare was as follows;

BILL OF FARE
Tower of Strength
Fruit of the Vine
Woman of Grit
Maid of Orleans
Skippers' Home
What Smart People Take
All Things For All Men
Swallows
Essence of Berries
Greased Stuff
Our Forefathers' Stay
Bow of Friendship
Delicious Dishes
Ivory Manipulators

Previous to the feast a program of readings and musical selections was given and each number was immensely pleasing, every participant receiving generous applause. J. R. Keig presided in his usual graceful manner.

The social was given for the benefit of the church building fund, the supper being donated by the women. A total of $27.50 was raised for the fund.

The following appeared on the program: Miss Mae Raines of LaWard, Mr. and Mrs. Street, Misses Esther Stickley, Verna Amsberry, Natalie Young, Marie Richna, Mary Street, Mrs. Scott, Miss Scott, Walter McFeron, R. M. Hayslip, L. V. Quick and some young people from Buhler.

Francitas Bee, January 26, 1911

Mrs. Kingham and Mrs. Holton were out in the country Monday and Thursday soliciting for money with which to build the new church. The responses have been very general and at this time they have pledged something over $800. It is urged that all those who have made their pledges pay up at once so that the building may begin. By paying now the women in charge will be saved considerable extra work collecting.

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An oyster supper will be served in the new Dopps building Friday night, the proceeds to be turned into the church building fund. Mrs. Kingham and Mrs. Holton called a meeting Monday night to arrange for the supper. It was decided that following the supper which is from 6 to 8 o'clock, a program will be given. The following committees were appointed: program, R. M. Hayslip, Misses Sylvia Holton and Natalie Young; entertainment: Mr. Willis, Miss Ruth Papineau and Miss Hazel Scott; cashiers: U. C. Street and Mrs. Street.

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Should any reader of this paper desire to get his name on the roll of honor by subscribing to the fund for the construction of the first church in Francitas, the opportunity is his. Just send your money order or check to Mrs. S. C. Holton, Francitas, Texas. There is no limit to the amount you may give.

Francitas Bee, February 9, 1911

The ladies of the committee in charge of securing funds for the erection of a church will give an oyster supper in the new Lubben building Friday night, February 24. Supper will be served from 6 to 8 p. m. Oysters served any style. After supper a program will be rendered. Everybody cordially invited.

Francitas Bee, February 23, 1911

Oyster Supper

The oyster supper Friday night in the new Lubben building was one of the most enjoyable events yet held in Francitas, the large store building being packed to its full capacity. A large number of Blessing and LaWard young folks attended.

The supper was given by the ladies in charge of securing funds for the erection of a church. Oysters, caked and buns were served from 6 to 8 o'clock. After supper a most delightful program was rendered, Miss Ruth Papineau presiding.

The program consisted of musical selections by Mr. and Mrs. U. C. Street, the Ansley orchestra and some young people of LaWard, a selection by the ladies quartet, a duet by the Misses Natalie Young and Sylvia Holton, and readings by the Misses Mae Raines of LaWard, Natalie Young, Ruth Papineau, Sylvia Holton, R. M. Hayslip, and L. V. Quick and singing and recitations by a number of the little folks.

After the program, R. M. Hayslip, in behalf of the ladies, in a few well chosen words thanked the large audience for their attendance and liberal patronage.

The ladies took in the neat little sum of $24.10 and after paying all expenses had $14.30 remaining. They now have over $900 raised, and work will commence on the building as soon as possible.

Francitas Bee, March 2, 1911

The Good People of Weeping Water, Neb. Send Draft for Church Construction.

The church fund was increased Thursday by the receipt of $14.40 from the wives of the Francitas contract holders of Weeping Water, Neb.

These people, because of their interests here, concluded they should contribute something toward the construction of the church. To raise the money they gave an entertainment followed by a basket supper. The proceeds from the entertainment were then donated to the church fund.

The following letter accompanied the draft, to which Miss Sylvia Holton, replied:

Weeping Water, Neb., March 20, 1911.--Mr. H. H. Philpott, Francitas, Texas.--Dear Sir.--Please pardon us if we intrude on good nature Mr. Editor, but as I am one of the readers of your paper, I am taking it for granted that all the rest of the contract holders here are subscribers too; if they are not they certainly should be; and although a few hundred miles of space separate us, our thoughts are sometimes very near to the little city of Francitas and its people. Last week some of our ladies whose husbands are contract holders in the Francitas tract, got to thinking that it would not be any more than right if our citizens would contribute a few dollars for the building of the church, so they all got busy, and last Saturday night they, with the aid of the children, gave a short program, consisting of songs, dialogues, recitations, and the reading of a paper, made up about Francitas and the Gulf Coast Country, followed by a basket supper, which was quite successful considering the short notice that was given, the receipts of which, after expenses were paid I am enclosing. Will you please hand draft enclosed, to Mrs. Holton, and with it the best wishes, from us all. May Francitas and The Bee prosper is the prayer of us all. Thanking you for this kind favor in advance, we remain as ever.

Yours truly,
Francitas Contract Holders, by L. R. Leonard.

Francitas, Texas, March 24, 1911.--Mr. L. R. Leonard, Weeping Water, Neb.--Dear Sir.--On request of Mrs. S. C. Holton, my mother, who lies very ill and weak, I take greatest pleasure in writing you that the draft was very, very thankfully received, and seemed to make a cheerful and bright spot in mother's weakness. She, with Mrs. Kingham here, has worked very earnestly, and diligently in God's cause. And the earnest interest that has been taken by the ladies of Weeping Water whose husbands are contract holders in the Francitas tract, is appreciated very much.

The church is hoped to be started soon, just when I cannot say at present. Should you people come to Francitas, which I hope you sometime will, I know you will appreciate our town. It is growing very fast, and it is a pleasure to us here to watch it.

Thanking you very much for your kindness and interest taken for Mrs. Kingham and mother, I am,

Very truly yours,
Sylvia Holton.

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For the benefit of the church fund Mrs. Kingham and others are preparing to make a quilt upon which will be worked the names of every person who sends in ten cents or more for the purpose. Any reader of this paper may send his name with the price and the same will go down in history with the names of the pioneers of Francitas.

Francitas Bee, March 30, 1911

The ladies of Francitas will serve ice cream Friday afternoon and evening in Joines Bros. Hall, before the entertainment given by the ladies of the Blessing W. C. T. U. Friday, April 7, from 3 o'clock to eight. All are invited to come and enjoy the refreshments and afternoon, also evening entertainment. Proceeds from ice cream goes to Francitas church fund.

Francitas Bee, April 6, 1911

Helps Church
One Family of Sargent Sends Names to Go on Quilt Being Made by Church People.

Mrs. Fred Kingham has received a letter from Mrs. A. Raish of Sargent, Neb., asking that six names be put on the quilt being made to sell for the benefit of the church fund.

It costs 10 cents each to have a name sewed in the quilt and nearly everyone in town has paid the dime. The Sargent folks are the first outsiders to get in. Mrs. Kingham would be pleased to hear from all property owners of Francitas.

The letter is as follows:

Mrs. Kingham, Francitas, Texas.--I see by the Francitas paper you are making a quilt for the benefit of the church. We don't live there but feel as if we have an interest there. We expect to visit the town some time. So we will send you our names for the quilt: Clarence Raish, Anna Raish, D. W. Raish, S. V. Sears, Mrs. Sears, Curtis Raish.

Yours respectfully,
Mrs. A. Raish

Francitas Bee, April 20, 1911

Money For Church Quilt.

Many parties who have property in Francitas have very generously sent in their names to have them worked in the quilt which is being made to sell for the benefit of the church fund. Several of the letters which Mrs. Kingham has received will be published next week.

Francitas Bee, May 4, 1911

Christian Church Organized

A call was made for the members of the Christian Church to meet at the home of Brother Wm. Baer to organize a Church of Christ in Francitas. The meeting was called to order with R. M. Bailey in the chair. After Scripture reading and prayer the purpose of the meeting was given. Then the covenant was read and signed. After which the following were elected temporarily.

Elder, M. V. Hatch

Deacon, William Baer

Deacon, Fred Kingham

Clerk, S. C. Holton

Treasurer, Arther Kingham

Trustees, G. J. Phelps, S. C. Holton, Fred Kingham

After a few statements of the church work the meeting was closed by a prayer for God's blessing on this new organization by Sister Kingham and Brother Hatch.

Mrs. Fred Kingham, secretary pro tem.

Francitas Bee, May 4, 1911

Money For Quilt
Property Owners Sending in Their Dimes to Have Names Placed on Church Quilt.

Non-resident property owners of Francitas are just now showing a very commendable interest in the affairs of this little city by sending in money with which to pay for having their names enrolled on the quilt which is being made for the benefit of the church fund.

A few short paragraphs have been published in The Bee regarding the splendid work these good women are doing and the responses have been most generous. Every person who sends in his name with ten cents (or more) will have the name worked in the quilt which will be completed and exhibited on Francitas Day, December 10. Following are a few of the letters which Mrs. Kingham has received from well wishers of the little city:

C. T. Coate, Elwood, Neb.--I enclose herewith money order, together with a list of names for the quilt being made for the benefit of the church fund; kindly accept same and our best wishes for Francitas, her people, and any undertaking they may enter into; we are all property owners. Several of us were down there opening day, and are looking forward to the day that we can again be there.

D. H. Price, Mrs. D. H. Price, E. Butts, Mrs. Carrie Butts, Frank Brevard, Mrs. Mary Brevard, F. E. Price, [Mrs.?] F. E Price, John McAvoy, C. W. Smith, Mrs. C. W. Smith, C. T Coate and Mrs. C. T. Coate.

Mrs. J. M. Babb, Fullerton, Neb.--I am a reader of your bright shining paper the Bee and want to be remembered in your church as my husband has twenty acres in your town, which I had the privilege of visiting last August and I hope to visit it again soon. Wishing you all success in your new home, I inclose you $1.00 for our 4 names, Mr. Babb, Mrs. Babb, Flossie Babb, Goldie Babb.

Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Vermilion Ransom, Kans.--I see by the Francitas Bee that you are making a quit for the benefit of the church.

As we soon expect to reside near there we hereby send our names for the quilt.

J. E. Simmons, Sligo, Colo.--I see an ad in the Bee that the property holders in Francitas are requested to donate a dime to the benefit of the church and the ones that respond to the call will have their name sewed on a quilt that is to be sold. Enclosed you will find 20 cents for which you will please add the following names to the quilt, J. E. Simmons and Mrs. L. M. Merry. We visited Francitas on April 7, 1911, were very much impressed with the new town and country so much so that I invested in a town lot and 5 acre tract. As soon as we can dispose of our Colorado ranch the coast country will be our future home, we have 8 months winter and 4 months summer here. It makes every month winter to read in the Bee the amount of vegetables and berries you people are enjoying whereas I just plowed my garden today and will plow potato ground to-morrow. It looked pretty gloomy to us on our return home and not seeing any green vegetation of any kind. The only thing I can boast of, Colorado is one of the great stock countries in the United States. I hope to be in your country in the near future.

F. C. Hensel sent the following names.--F. C. Hensel, E. A. Hensel, Marion Hensel, Vivian Hensel, Evelyn Hensel, Blanch Hensel, Bell Hensel, Elsie Honald, R. A. Hensel, Edna Sisson, Elizabeth Sisson, and Mildred Hensel. All from Hebron, Neb.

Francitas Bee, May 11, 1911

The Bee Tow Line

The Bee Tow Line is thrown out this week. If you are interested in the prosperity and upbuilding of Francitas grab hold of it and Pull.

Francitas women are raising money for a church building. Our growth and prospects demand that this building be a good one.

It is proposed that this building cost not less than $2,500. The women of the city have raised and have in cash approximately $1,000. It is proposed to borrow $1,000 unless the remainder of the sum is subscribed quickly.

The Bee believes it can raise $500 among its readers and Francitas expects us to do it.

So we throw out the Tow Line and ask every person to grab hold and help haul in the money.

Fifty of our readers can give $10 each and never miss the money. That would make the $500. One hundred of our readers can give $5 each and forget it in a minute. That would make the $500. Every one of our readers can give $1 and should be glad to do it.

This is a most commendable work you are invited to do. A few women of Francitas have been working for several months to build a church here and the time has arrived when actual work on the building must begin.

Shall it be a church of which the community will be proud or shall it be an affair which in a short time will become an eye sore.

It is up to you. The Bee has told these women you would contribute $500. Will you do it? We believe you will. Send in personal checks, drafts, money orders or the cash. But do it now. Remember this is not charity it is an investment you are used to make.

The building may be used by any denomination in Francitas. No denomination will be barred.

Grab the Tow Line. We cannot afford to fall down in this. We must raise that $500.

Francitas Bee, May 11, 1911

For the Church.

The Bee throws out its tow line this week to raise $500 for the church fund. This is the first time this paper has uncoiled its tow line though we have no misgivings about the result. We believe our readers will take pleasure in sending in their contributions. The cause is worthy and our readers are fit to help it along.

The church should have been built long ago but it has not been possible for the women who have charge of the fund to raise the money in Francitas so The Bee has taken up the cause among the non resident property owners. It is little short of a calamity that a city the size of Francitas has no permanent place to hold religious services and it is entirely out of the question to expect the citizens of this community to contribute more money than they have already paid into the fund.

Non resident property owners make money every time one of our citizens plows a furrow or drives a nail and the time is here when they should get into the game and push the town along.

Francitas Bee, May 11, 1911

Plans For Church.

Within a few days, in fact most any day now the plans for a new church building for Francitas, to cost in the neighborhood of $2500 will be on exhibition in this city and the contract will then be let. So it is up to those who are interested in the future of this city to get busy and raise some money.

The man who does not contribute according to his means will never have an easy conscience and can never retire with that perfect satisfaction which comes from doing a good Christian act. The time is short when it is possible to get in with the early contributors and we urge our readers to hurry. Do not put this appeal aside and say you will attend to it later for you may neglect it.

Now is the accepted time.

Send in your money today. It will encourage those who are here carving out a beautiful and prosperous little city for you.

The people of Francitas are now holding services in a hall which is entirely inadequate and which is a bad advertisement for our city.

Our people intend to build a church. You are one of our people because you own property here which becomes valuable as the town grows. A nice neat church will materially prosper the community. Will you do your share? Send in your subscription, we guarantee you will never regret it.

Francitas Bee, May 18, 1911

Money For Quilt.

Following are a new more letters received by Mrs. Kingham from persons interested in the town:

Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Clark, Montrose, Kan.:--We see by the Francitas Bee you are making a quilt for the benefit of the church and we want to have "a finger in the pie." So will send in two dimes to get our names on the quilt. We hope to be in Francitas in October and spend the winter there. We have always been in the habit of going to church and desire to have the privilege there.

Mr. and Mrs. S. Elwood, Bloomfield, Neb.:--I see by the Francitas Bee you are all working hard to raise money to build a church. I am so glad to know you are all taking such a great interest in it for that is something we can not get along without very well. It helps the town. We have an interest in Francitas and want to see it grow and make a good town. We have visited the coast country at Palacios and Francitas and all along and we like it very much and expect to come there to live in the near future. Please put our names on your quilt. Please find enclosed $1.00 for church fund hoping you will have no trouble in raising the money for your church.

Frank Crawford, Smithfield, Neb.:--I see by the Francitas Bee you are making a quilt for the benefit of the church. Please accept this dollar as a little help from a friend and enter my name on your quilt if you do not have it full. May God prosper you in your work.

Francitas Bee, May 18, 1911

New Lutheran Church

P. Klenk, missionary for the German Lutheran church with his territory covering the Brownsville railroad territory was here Wednesday visiting with Chris Lubben. Mr. Klenk came to look after the construction and establishment of a German Lutheran church.

"I heard there were a great many Germans here" said Mr. Klenk "so I came to see about the establishment of a church. One will be built here some time in the future, just as soon as few more Germans get here."

Francitas Bee, May 18, 1911

Plans For Church
R. L. Pierce of San Antonio Submits Plans for the new House of Worship.

Plans for the church building have been received and those who have examined them are well satisfied that when completed the church will be one of the prettiest in the gulf coast country considering the amount of money invested, some $2500.

Mr. Pierce of San Antonio who drew the plans did so at the request of Mr. Schwind, who was recently in that city. Mr. Schwind's instructions were to plan something "different" and the architect complied with the instructions to the letter.

The plans call for an auditorium 36x60 feet with a raised pulpit and chancel. At the entrance there will be two vestibules 10x10 feet each. The front of the church is of mission style.

The committee having in charge the raising of the church fund has collected approximately $1,000 and $1,500 is yet needed. It is believed this sum will be readily subscribed for every property owner of the city realized the value of a nice church in the community, so the contribution to the church fund will be an investment, rather than giving to charity. The contract holders in Lincoln and Omaha alone could raise $500 and never miss the money.

Francitas Bee, May 25, 1911

An ice cream social will be given in the building to be occupied by the Francitas Pharmacy a week from Friday night. The proceeds will go to the church fund.

Francitas Bee, May 25, 1911

Onto the Tow Line

The appeal of The Bee to its friends and readers for $500 with which to help build a first class church in this city, has fallen on generous ears and responses have begun to arrive in a way that indicates the $500 will soon be raised. Those who have sent in contributions and good words of encouragement during the last few days are the following:

Robert Young, Fairbury
J. M. May, Ord
W. O. Hanzen, Norfolk
Mr. and Mrs. H. L. Boston, David City
Andrew Bethscheider, Hebron
M. O. McClure, McCook
J. E. Molund, McCook

No man who has witnessed the hard work Mrs. Fred Kingham and other women of this city have been doing to raise this money, could resist sending in something. It was the good hard work these women are doing that impelled The Bee to go to their assistance. This paper felt that if it could impress upon its readers the necessity of helping these women secure this church it would have no trouble raising $500 for the fund. If we fail to raise the amount we have set out to raise we shall feel that it is entirely our own fault for not being able to present the proposition to our readers as we see it here. We know, not a property owner of Francitas could resist the appeal or would want to resist it, if he knew the necessity of this church in Francitas as we do. It does not take a religious man to see that a church building at this time will be a good investment.

The women are anxious to start on the church building at the same time work begins on the bank and the school house.

If you have not sent in a contribution we urge you once more to do it now.

Francitas Bee, June 1, 1911

Word From Rev. Bailey

Esteemed Editor:--Just a word about the proposed church in Francitas.

I preached for the good people twice and found them an earnest, faithful people, and they are wanting a good church house for their families and friends. They have pushed the work to the limit of their ability, so must depend on their friends and the friends of Francitas, to carry on the work of completion.

They have a fine church house plan selected, up to date, commodious and beautiful enough for any little city. It is a house fine enough to cause everyone to take a pride in it, a credit to any community. The church people will be very grateful for all assistance in this splendid undertaking.

Rev. R. M. Bailey

Francitas Bee, June 1, 1911

The Ladies Aid served ice cream and cake, candy and lemonade in the new drug store Friday afternoon and cleared about $18 for the church fund. Will Clark distinguished himself by treating every one in the large room, parting with a $5 to do it. Of course Clark deserved some credit for his liberality, but as a matter of fact most of the credit should go to Mr. Phelps and Captain Almon for forcing him to do it

Francitas Bee, June 8, 1911

Quilt Attracts Money.

Mrs. Fred Kingham is receiving every day several letters from readers of The Bee enclosing money for the church fund and requesting that their names be placed on the quilt which is being made by the Ladies Aid. Among the letters received recently are the following:

N. H. Swanson, Wahoo, Nebr.--Being one of the many property owners, also a reader of The Bee, I see the splendid work you are doing for a church building. Enclosed you will find $1 to have my name enrolled on the quilt which is being made for the benefit of the church fund.

Friedrich Kempka, Koehler Junction, N. Mex.--I have seen in The Bee that you are making a quilt for your church. Please find enclosed $1 and my name. I believe that a town without a church is just like a stationary engine without a governor.

Mr. and Mrs. W. L. and Veeda Clement, Austin, Minn.--As we have purchased a little land near Francitas, expecting to make our home there some time, and are interested readers of The Bee, we would like to reserve one little corner in that quilt where our names can be found. We will enclose 30 cents for this privilege.

Henry L. Bigge, Read, Nebr.--Inclosed you will find 10 cents postage for engraving my name. I will promise to give you $5 by the middle of August for building fund or any other church purpose. Hoping you will not get discouraged.

A. P. Oyer, Stratton, Neb.--Well Mr. Dimick, I send you one dollar to give to the fund for building the church house. It is not much but every little bit helps. I may come down some time and I would like to go to church with you people.

Francitas Bee, June 15, 1911

Rev. P. Klenka a German Lutheran preacher will be here Sunday and officiate at services to be held at 10 o'clock. It is probable the services will be held at the residence of Chris Lubben. Mr. Klenka was here some time ago and he will in all probability organize a German Lutheran church. When the organization is perfected it will not be long before a church will be built for this congregation There are several German Lutherans in Francitas and many more are coming in the fall.

Francitas Bee, June 15, 1911

We have on hand a number of letters of encouragement to the people of Francitas in which money was enclosed for the church and we have several which have been written to Mrs. Kingham but a lack of space prevents us publishing them this week.

Francitas Bee, June 22, 1911

The Roll of Honor

Many have responded to the call for help in building the new church. Others will respond. Every person who sends in a donation will have his name published on the church quilt which will be on exhibition Francitas Day. Below is a list of those who have come across recently.

M. O. McClure McCook
J. E. Molund, McCook
L. P. Utterback, Nebraska City
Mrs. F. H. Kuehl, Ord
Carl Spielmann, Sutton
G. A. Coffelt, Belmar
Friedrich Kempka, Koehler, N. M.
C. L. Mullen, Pampa, Texas
A. W. McReynolds, Nora
J. M May, Ord
Maxton McReynolds, Nora
Robert Young, Omaha
Andrew Bethscheider, Hebron
Mr. and Mrs. H. L. Boston, David City
A. O. Hazen, Norfolk

Francitas Bee, June 22, 1911

Kansas Helps

Norton, Kan. May 23. Mrs. Mary Kingham, Francitas.--Dear Mrs. Kingham: I see by The Bee you are making a quilt for the benefit of the church fund, and as we wish to add our mite we send you a few names, and are hoping to be able to be in Francitas in the near future. Wishing you success in your undertaking and in the future of Francitas we are.--Mrs. Olive Fowler, Mr. J. A. Fowler, Mrs. Margaret Ward, Mr. Frank Ward, Mrs. Lide Davison, Mr. Hamp Davison, Mr. James Montague, Mrs. Laura Fowler, Mr. John Fowler.

From Norton, Kansas comes another list of names of well wishers for Francitas--Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Harmonson, B. F. Mustoe, C. E. Mustoe, Leroy Mustoe, Ellsworth Mustoe, Francis Mustoe, Nancy Mustoe.

Francitas Bee, June 29, 1911

Ready For Money.

The committee which has in charge the collection of money for the construction of the church building has requested that all who have pledged money send in the same now to Fred Kingham, treasurer.

The committee is anxious to get the money together and begin work on the building so it was decided to issue the call at this time.

The pillars for the building have been cut and hauled to the lot so that when the contract is let there will be as little delay as possible on the work.

Incidentally those who have not pledged any money may send in their contributions just the same.

Francitas Bee, June 29, 1911

Rev. Mr. Klenk will preach here Sunday morning. Mr. Klenk is a German Lutheran who intends to help build a church here for his denomination.

Francitas Bee, July 6, 1911

Ready to Build
Work Will Start on New Church Building, Probably This Week. George Papineau to Have Charge.

Work on the new church building to cost $2,500 will start probably this week. The posts for the foundation are now on the ground and just as soon as an exchange of lots can be made so the church organization will have two lots together the work will start.

The church organization is going in debt for a portion of the money necessary to construct the building, but there is no doubt that the property owners of Francitas will take care of that debt, when it falls due.

The church when completed will be one of the most beautiful and the most original in the entire gulf coast country. The plans were drawn by Mr. Pierce of San Antonio and have been highly complimented by all who have examined them. Mr. Papineau hopes to have the building started this week.

Francitas Bee, July 13, 1911

The Rev. Mr. Klenk, German Lutheran, preached Sunday at the home of Chris Lubben. This is the last time Mr. Klenk will be in Francitas this year as he leaves at once for Springfield, Ill., where he again enters school. He will be succeeded in this territory by the Rev. F. Stelzer, who will visit Francitas at least once each month.

Francitas Bee, July 13, 1911

Helps Church

Shelton, Nebr. Mrs. Fred Kingham, Francitas, Texas, Dear Madam:--I have for some time intended to make you a remittance with names of my self and little family, for your quilt. I think the idea is an excellent one, and as I am interested in our little city of Francitas, and in the establishment and building a church there. I shall deem it an honor for my family's names to appear in your wonderful quilt; and inclose 50c to cover entry fee of five names.

Trusting we may have the pleasure of meeting some time in the future, and seeing the completion of your work. I am

Your's Sincerely,
E. L. Light

The following are the names: E. L. Light, Mrs. Daisy E. Light, Charles E. Light, Albert L. Light, Mary E. Light.

Francitas Bee, July 13, 1911

Callaway Patriots
Forty Six Residents of That Nebraska City Send in Money to Help Build the Church.

Mrs. Fred Kingham has received a letter from Mrs. Charles Engels of Callaway, Neb., enclosing a draft for $10.50 together with 46 names to be placed on the church quilt at 10 cents each. The letter is as follows:

"I enclose herewith money order for $10.50 with list of names for the quilt. Most are stock holders. Others are friends here in Callaway. Kindly accept same and our best wishes for Francitas people and their undertaking."

Through the Bee Mrs. Kingham desires her thanks and the thanks of the Ladies Aid society extended to the good people of Callaway. The list of names is as follows:

G. O. and Mrs. McConnell
Ira, Olive Wauneta and Marie McConnell
J. E. Felker
C. D. Engels
Mr. Smith
John Merirs
Mrs. Emma Merirs
Miss Bell Deal
Geo. W. and Mrs. Work
E. B. Taylor
Charles Curtis
Dr. Greer
W. Alberts
Charles Rhyan
Dr. E. C. Haskins

Geo. Griffith
N. C., C. C. and A. P. Penny
R. E., Millie and B. R. Brega
E. N. Penny
Mrs. Penny
Mrs. and Leora McConnel
Miss Annie Weaver
Mrs. Jesse May
Jas. E. May
R. L. Griffith
Mrs. Roy Engels
Mrs. Fred Steeton
Mrs. George Howell
Mrs. Jno. Andrews
Fred Payton

Francitas Bee, July 20, 1911

Work Started
New Church Now Under Course of Construction. Located on Lincoln Boulevard in Block 78.

Ground was broken on the lots for the new church building last Thursday afternoon, Mrs. W. F. Schwind and Mrs. Fred Kingham turning the first dirt. As their spades turned under the sod the ever present photographer snapped them, thus securing a picture of one of the most important and epoch making events in the history of Francitas.

The church is being constructed under the direction of George Papineau on lots 17 and 18 block 78 located on the boulevard, one of the most desirable places for a church in the entire city.

The citizens here decided early in the history of the town that it would be necessary to construct a church and a school before it could really be said the town had been started, and while the men were busy with the commercial side of the city's affairs Mrs. Fred Kingham and Mrs. S. C. Holton started out with their subscription paper and secured pledges of financial help. The Ladies Aid was then organized and the making of a quilt with the names of all the contributors to the fund stamped thereon, was started; contributions from non resident property owners swelled the fund until now the church trustees concluded to go ahead with the building. The work will be rushed to completion.

Francitas Bee, July 27, 1911

Another Pull on the Tow Line.

Now that the church building is under course of construction, it is time for another pull on the Tow Line. Our readers have responded most liberally to our call for help and a considerable sum of money has been realized, but more is needed. One or two good strong pulls altogether and the debt which will shortly hang over the people of Francitas will be lifted.

The church to be built will be one of the prettiest, the neatest and the most original in design of any in the gulf coast country. It will be a credit to the city of Francitas and it will stand for many years a testimonial to the generosity of the property owners of this town and to the energy and activity of those here who have had charge of the matter. Every person who contributes money to the building of this church will not only receive dividends on his investment from the knowledge of having been a worker and a helper in a good cause, but he will draw dividends from the increased value of all property in Francitas by reason of the construction here of such a house of worship.

So once more we ask our readers to come to the front for their own interests; send in just a few more dollars to Mrs. Fred Kingham for the church fund and let's get this part of the business off hand so we may go after something else.

Grant Merrill of Hanna, Wyo., has sent in $15, which was collected there among some of the property owners. That was a mighty good plan which Mr. Merrill adopted and others could do the same. If every club captain would solicit a small donation from the contract holders close around, this sum could be raised in a jiffy.

Francitas Bee, August 3, 1911

Closes September 15.

The date when it will be impossible for one to get his name on the quilt is being made for the benefit of the church has been fixed. It is September 15. Those who desire to get their names on the quilt should send their money to Mrs. Fred Kingham before the date mentioned.

Francitas Bee, August 17, 1915

Work on the church building is progressing nicely. The building will soon be completed and it will one of the most original structures of the kind in the entire gulf coast country.

Francitas Bee, August 17, 2015

The Christian Endeavor society will give a basket social Saturday night at the hall. A literary and musical program will be carried out. The baskets will be sold to the highest bidder. The proceeds will go toward buying lamps for the church. Every one invited to attend.

Francitas Bee, August 17, 1911

Box Social
Unique Auction Nets Church Fund $43.50, Following Literary and Musical Program

At the box social given last Saturday night $43.50 was raised with which to buy the lights for the new church, now under course of construction. This sum was derived from the auction sale of boxes of lunch prepared by the women interested in the church.

Preceding the auction, a splendid literary and musical program was given, probably more enjoyable than any heretofore carried out in Francitas. This program was prepared by Miss Natalie Young, Mrs. G. J. Phelps and Miss Helen Schwind. It was just long enough, had been edited just enough, and arranged with just that discrimination real artists understand, to be just fine all the way through.

To describe the charm of each selection would require a vocabulary surely not expected in a town the age of Francitas. To say Mrs. Phelps reads James Whitcomb Riley so well that the little children's eyes bugged out as she told the bear story and the older folks enjoyed it so thoroughly that the tears filled their eyes, would be inadequately describing the charms of this selection as given by this talented Francitas woman, and yet the same number of words would be needed in telling of the delightfully original way in which Miss Helen Schwind interpreted the same author.

Miss Mildred Baer, Miss Elaine Munger, and Miss Zella Kingham, three little girls with their baby talk still one of their charms, with their little recitations were just as sweet as could be, while Miss Mary Street and Ned Young, little older and scarcely larger, in their duet were top notchers. The recitation by Miss Natalie Young was enjoyed thoroughly, as was the duet by Miss Young and Miss Sylvia Holton.

Mr. Ralph Hewitt, in the Holy City, was a delight. Mr. Hewitt has a splendid voice, full of good rich music. He was thoroughly enjoyed, and so was the German selection by the Misses Gerhard. For these selections Miss Mary Young played the accompaniment.

Following the last number on the program Mrs. Fred Kingham, who presided, turned the meeting over to J. F Willis, who began the auction of the lunch boxes. Many of the boxes were daintily fixed up on the outside while on the inside of all of them were piled fried chicken, cake, sandwiches, or something equally as good. So when Mr. Willis held up the first box and Mr. Phelps thought to get it for a dollar, the crowd got its first idea of the real value of good eats. The box went to ex-Mayor Clark for $1.75. Around that figure most of the boxes sold until the supply was about to give out when the competition became keener. The next to the last box brought an even $4, which was not a surprise when it was learned it had been prepared by Mrs. Mackey, while the last box, prepared by Mrs. Philpott, topped the market at $4.50. These boxes were bid in by the Burditt brothers of northeast of town, who know good "eats" when the see 'em.

Incidentally for the large sum realized, as great credit is due Mr. Willis for the way in which he cried the sale as is due the rare discrimination of the Francitas crowd.

Francitas Bee, August 24, 1911

The Roll of Honor

A. W. Martin, Colorado Springs
Joe Deters, Denver, Colo.
A. Stewart, Van Houton, N. M.
L. A. Proudfoot, South Omaha
Dr. Herman Gerhard, Lincoln
Mrs. Sarah Montague, Norton, Kan.
W. H. Pelton, Hanna, Wyo.
Mrs. Robert Speers, Norton, Kansas
Anderson & Mollerstorm, Waho
Henry L. Bigge, Read, Nebr.
M. A. Amsberry, Lincoln, Nebr.
Contract Holders of Hanna, Wyo.
Residents of Callaway, Nebr.
Residents of Weeping Water, Nebr.

Francitas Bee, August 24, 1911

W. C. Scott, who expects to remove to Francitas by November 1, has sent to Mrs. Fred Kingham a check for $20, representing contributions from property owners in Broken Bow. This money is to be placed to the credit of the church fund. Mr. Scott wrote a most encouraging letter regarding the interest the people of Broken Bow who own property here are taking in the coming festivities incident to the anniversary of the founding of the town December 10.

Francitas Bee, August 31, 1911

Mrs. Fred Kingham is daily receiving names to be placed on the quilt being made by the Ladies' Aid for the benefit of the church fund. The names are coming in so numerously during these closing days that it is not possible to give them publicly, but all who have sent in contributions will have the satisfaction of knowing that forever and a day their names will be inscribed on this beautiful quilt which represents so much hard work.

Francitas Bee, September 7, 1911

Many Coming
Contributors to Church Fund from Many States Say They Are Moving to Francitas

While the letters inclosing contributions to the church funds are entirely too numerous to publish and the list of names has stretched out to such an extent the "caps" would run out before we got started "setting" them, we are publishing just a few received by Mrs. Kingham recently. Several of the writers say they are preparing to move to Francitas and some are coming immediately.

The fact that these letters come from several different states shows that Francitas has become an inter state city, and it will gather in the sheckels and the population from the nation.

Incidentally these letters give a faint idea of the value of The Bee as an advertising medium. It proves The Bee is not only a local paper, but a national weekly. Here are a few of the letters just recently received by Mrs. Kingham:

Bellwood, Neb.--Enclosed find 20 cents for the following names to be placed on the quilt if it is not too late. I am making preparations to be there on Francitas Day.--Fred Benedict; H. T. Benedict.

Cleveland, Okla.--You will find enclosed $1 together with our names to put in the church quilt. We have two tracts of land in Francitas and expect some time to make our home there. Wishing you success in your building of the church.--J. M. and Mrs. Barnard.

Alma, Neb.--Enclosed please find 20 cents to have our names put on your quilt. We have about made up out minds to come down there this winter.--James D. Cameron; Mary F. Cameron.

Pleasanton, Kansas.--Dear Friend. Allow me to address you in this manner, as I read The Francitas Bee every week and being a property owner in Francitas, am very anxious to have it prosper. Will send you a small donation for your church fund. We want to visit Francitas in December.--N. and Mrs. Wurtz.

Crawford, Neb.--Enclosed find $1 to be credited to the church fund. I want my name spotted on the quilt for Francitas Day. I want to be there before that time. I did think I would be there in time to donate a few days work on the church, but perhaps I will be late. I think in 30 days I will be there.--R. H. Moss.

Mt. Morrison, Colo.--It has been my purpose, although neglected for some time, to send you my mite for the church quilt and I am now enclosing herewith a dollar bill for that cause.--J. H. Holmes.

Pacific Junction, Ia.--Enclosed please find $1 for church fund and insert our names on the quilt.--S. M. and Mrs. DeGarno.

St. Michael, Neb.-- I saw by The Bee that the time was nearly out to get our names on the church quilt, so enclosed you will please find 50 cents. Here are the names: B. S. Hawk, Mrs. Blanche Hawk, Mrs. Addie Hayes and Miss Ruth Hayes, all of St. Michael, Neb. We are all interested and we are coming to Francitas by the first of November.--Mrs. George S. Hayes.

Hanna, Wyoming.--Enclosed find money order for $1.50. For the 50 cents please put the following names on the quilt. Annie Dakin, James Edward Dakin, Evelyn Dakin and James Dakin. The dollar is for the church fund. I know what a hard and thankless job Sunday school and church work most always is. It is most always left to a few. Everybody else always seems willing to let you go it alone. Hope you will be successful in raising enough money for the church.--James Dakin.

Fort Scott, Kan.--Enclosed find 60 cents for which please place the following names on the quilt which the Francitas church ladies are making. Mahlan Taylor, Mrs. N. J. Taylor, Mrs. Ila Jacobson, Mrs. Frank Ivie, Frank Ivie. Wishing you great success in the church work.--Mrs. N. J. Taylor.

Francitas Bee, September 21, 1911

Church of Christ Notice.

Don't forget the protracted meeting now in progress in the Joines' hall. Remember the question box. Your presence is wanted at each service. "Come, let us reason together, saith the Lord." Services begin at 7:30 P. M.

Marvin W. Kelly, Evangelist

Francitas Bee, September 28, 1911

Those who have pledged money to the church fund will confer a favor on the committee if they will make their remittance at once, as the money is needed now to pay the carpenters who are doing the work.

Francitas Bee, October 5, 1911

Windows for Church.

The windows for the new church building have been received by the Merchants and Planters Lumber company and will be put in the building probably this week.

The windows are of Cathedral glass and one of the large ones contains 288 small panes. These beautiful windows are in keeping with the building, which in design is one of the most original in the entire gulf coast country. In fact no town in Texas has a prettier church building than this one will be, regardless of cost of construction.

Francitas Bee, October 5, 1911

A spelling bee and pie auction will be held at the Joines Hall Saturday for the benefit if the church lighting fund. Professor Kingham will pronounce the words at the spelling bee, and when this is concluded Dr. Willis, auctioneer will cry the sale for the pies. The money raised in this way will be used to pay on the lights for the new church. Every one is invited.

Francitas Bee, October 12, 1911

G. T. Powell, a minister of the United Brethren church of Blessing, visited in Francitas last Friday. He will preach at the all next Sunday morning at 11 o'clock. Everyone is invited to attend.

Francitas Bee, October 19, 1911

Sunday, October 29, services will be held in the new church building for the first time. The Rev. Mr. Bailey of Ganado will preach the first sermon. The building is almost completed and will be ready by the time announced.

Francitas Bee, October 19, 1911

The spelling bee and pie auction Saturday night was a very enjoyable affair. From the sale of 16 pies $6.80 was realized for the church lighting fund. In the spelling bee Freddie Holton and Earl Gale shared the honors. J. F. Willis cried the sale and Professor Kingham pronounced the words.

Francitas Bee, October 19, 1911

New Church
Beautiful Structure Almost Completed. Will be Occupied Sunday for First Time

The church building which has been under course to construction for a long time, is almost ready to turn over to the trustees. The large windows were put in the first of the week and soon the scaffolding will all be taken down.

This structure is one of the most original and beautiful in the entire gulf coast country. It has cost the property owners of Francitas in the neighborhood of $3,000, and it is certainly worth the money.

Services will be held there Sunday morning and evening, and the roll will be called at Sunday school, so everyone is invited to attend. Rev. mar. Bailey will preach.