Have you driven past the Hansville Church lately? Looks pretty much the same as usual, doesn’t it? But did you know that this year marks its 100th birthday? Yep. In 1909 it was built with all donated labor and materials. The first minister, Anston Husby, held services for 12 people in this church. But the building wasn’t located where it is now. It did some traveling. Once it was where the Hansville Store stands today, and once it was where the old fire station was located — next door to where the church is now. George Zimmer donated the land for one of the locations, but Alice White gave the church the land on Twin Spits Road where it is now. And did you know that the church started out with just that small portion you can see on the west end of the building? The new sanctuary that enlarged the church to its current size was added in 1961. The original part is now a small kitchen and a crying room.

Here’s a couple of other fun facts to know: Before the formal church was built, the congregation met in the Hansville School — did you even know there used to be a Hansville School? — or in a member’s home. Did you know that the 800-pound bell you hear on Sunday mornings is an antique that was cast in New York by the Gould Manufacturing Company? Although there is no proof of exactly what year it was cast, we do know that bronze was needed for cannons (not bells) during the Civil War. Consequently, this type of bell manufacturer became pretty much extinct, so this bell was probably cast before that war. Pat and Neil Miller found the bell in Shipshewana, Ind., and brought it back to Hansville. Miller even installed it, with help from David Barrett, for all of us to enjoy. That was in 2001.

But that brings me back to telling you about the celebration of this 100th birthday.

Starting at noon, after the regular service, on Sunday, June 7, at the church on Twin Spits Road, there will be a free lunch served to the community and entertainment by the Prayery Canaries (free) and lots of good old fashion neighborly cheer (also free). And there will be cake.

In December 2007, the Hansville Community Church welcomed Mark Petroff as its pastor and, of course, he brought along his wife Mary who is also a wonderful addition to this community. They will be leading the celebration and hope many people will come to help the church celebrate. Why don’t you come join the fun of this historic event — see you there?

P.S: Don’t forget that before the noon celebration begins, you are welcome to attend the 9 a.m. Adult or Teen Sunday School, and/or the 10 a.m. regular service (the children’s Sunday School is at 10 a.m. also). Any questions about this event? Call the church at (360) 638-2335.

Contact Donna Lee Anderson at welltoldtales@aol.com.