The German Methodist Episcopal and Baptists in Defiance, Ohio

From the Defiance Democrat, July 26, 1894...an article describing the beautiful churches and cemeteries of Defiance, Ohio

The Baptist Church

"The first Baptist services were held in Defiance in 1846 by Rev. James French, who was a missionary sent out by the Baptist convention of the state of Ohio.  The church was organized April 15th, 1846, and on April 16th, Rev. James Ward was ordained pastor.  Rev. A. L. Jordan is pastor at the present time.

During the intervening years, a number of different ministers had charge of the church.  The Baptists are now building a new church which will be quite elaborate and beautiful when completed and will be located on Wayne street. "

First Baptist Church on Wayne Street - Historic Homes calendar 2011

 GERMAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH

"The German Methodist Episcopal church of Defiance was founded in 1850. Services were held previous to this in the school room.  The church was built in 1857 under the administration of Rev. Ruff and cost $700.  

The bell was presented to the church by the Presbyterian congregation.  The interior is quite neat.  The walls and ceiling are prettily papered.  The pews and pulpit are of oak.  In 1860 the parsonage was built at a cost of $300, Rev. J. Braun being pastor at the time."