Star Valley Township near Fairfax in Gregory County, South Dakota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Bethlehem German Congregational Church
This pioneer church was founded by European Immigrants who landed at Ellis Island, NY, then migrated by railway to Dakota Territory in the 1870's--1880's. Worship services were held first in a sod home--increased numbers required a church which was built of native stone from a quarry 3 miles NE of here. Mortar made of soil, chopped straw and water was used to bind the stones in the 2 feet thick walls. Roof, floor, doors and windows were constructed of wood. Dedication was in the fall of 1897 and the first wedding, B. J. Gall and Lena Bentz, was on November 27, 1897, performed by Reverend Gustav Baumen.
Stone Church united with Hope Congregational of Fairfax in 1924 and was sold and dismantled in 1941. The majority of the graves have no markers although more than 60 burials are recorded.
Erected 1991 by the Fairfax, Bonesteel, Ft. Randall Historical Society, the South Dakota State Historical Society and the South Dakota Department of Transportation. (Marker Number 535.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Cemeteries & Burial Sites • Churches & Religion. In addition, it is included in the South Dakota State Historical Society Markers series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1893.
Location. 43° 0.62′ N, 98° 48.269′ W. Marker is near Fairfax, South Dakota, in Gregory County. It is in Star Valley Township. Marker is on 369th Avenue north of U.S. 18, on the left when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Fairfax SD 57335, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 7 other markers are within 9 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Fairfax Fire Bell (approx. 4.4 miles away); Fairfax Veterans Memorial (approx. 4.4 miles away); Battle of Bonesteel (approx. 8.2 miles away); State Line Marker (approx. 8˝ miles away); Iron Post (approx. 8˝ miles away); Legacy Park (approx. 8˝ miles away); Bonesteel American Legion Memorial (approx. 8˝ miles away).
Credits. This page was last revised on October 24, 2023. It was originally submitted on October 24, 2023. This page has been viewed 48 times since then and 11 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on October 24, 2023.