Star Valley Township near Fairfax in Gregory County, South Dakota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Bethlehem German Congregational Church
October 21, 2023
1. Bethlehem German Congregational Church Marker
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
this page online
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Cemeteries & Burial Sites • Religion & Religious Structures. 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. It 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.
Regionally, this marker is in East River. It is also in the American Lewis & Clark Corridor, on the prairies, and on the Northern Plains. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once Ruperts Land and also the Louisiana Purchase.
Other nearby markers. At least 7 other markers are within 9 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: Fairfax Fire Bell
October 21, 2023
2. Bethlehem German Congregational Church Marker & Cemetery
Credits. This page was last revised on October 24, 2023. It was originally submitted on October 24, 2023. This page has been viewed 296 times since then and 17 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on October 24, 2023.
