March 28, 2024

Video memories of Wittemberg Church

John D. McNeer

Newton

The congregation of the Wittemberg Church, a landmark 5 miles north of Newton for 160 years held its final service on Sunday, Nov. 7. I had the privilege of capturing video memories of this special occasion.

An overflow crowd turned out on this his historic morning. Pastor Roger Swanson conducted a beautiful service which included memories read by their historian Pat Beckham. Members of the congregation, past and present also reflected on much history going back many generations.

Edited video memories of this very special day also includes the historic Wittemberg Cemetery walk back on September 2004. On that occasion pioneers were portrayed in period costumes by local actors. Included were stories of the first settlers and Militia from the Civil War. These two historic occasions make for an excellent documentary long to be remembered.

I have contributed DVD copies of these memories to our local museum for their archives, and also copies to our Newton Library. Folks who were not able to be present for this event can check out a copy of the 2-hour DVD from our library to enjoy at your leisure.