 |
Madge Justice
Remembers the Early Days
I visited First Presbyterian in the old church building several times
just out of curiosity even though my home church was the Federated in
Lewiston. The pastor of the Clarkston church was David Brown
then. He had been in that position more than 20
years.
Jeannette Martin was a regular in the old church and had been, perhaps
for 8 years. Later, I attended with Dave Justice after we
were
married in the old manse, May of 1948.
An elaborate building program was started during Dr. Brown's final
year. The first phase was what is now the narthex and the
basement Sunday school rooms. Worship was held in the narthex
using the metal folding chairs. At the west end of the room
was
the entry and pastor's office (later to become the cold room for
flowers). Next to that was the kitchen, now the
library.
Church dinners were held in the narthex by setting up tables.
At
the east end of the room was a stage--great for performances.
One
memorable night, a talent program was presented. One
performer
was Bryan Bundy playing harmonicas. I think he had six,
starting
with a little one about three inches long. He kept taking out
a
larger one from his pocket, ending with a long chromatic. His
commentary between instruments was comical.
Rev. Brown retired in 1948 not long after Dave and I were
married. He
was given a new car by the congregation and an honorary Doctor's degree
from Whitworth College. After retirement, Dr. and Mrs. Brown moved to
Omak. They returned many times to visit the church.
For a number of
years his name appeared on the bulletin as Pastor Emeritus.
|
|
|
