HISTORY of Thomas Mennonite Church


The Thomas Mennonite Church was founded in Conemaugh Township, Somerset Pa., in 1874. The first church was built on land purchased from John Thomas, Sr., hence the name. In 1892, the first Sunday School was organized.


The Thomas Mennonite Church was the third Mennonite church to founded in the Johnstown area.


1830

Small burial plot started on John and Mary Thomas farm due to the death of their son and deep snow.  Jonathan was buried in this site in a fence corner.  Soon others were buried here also.  The location of the graveyard thus became a deciding factor in selecting this site for a church.


1870

Before this time occasionally services were held in the summer at the Thomasdale School house or in the Moses Thomas barn in Thomas Mills.  This sawmill and flour mill were the first industries in this area.  By now concern arose for the need of a church building in the area.


1874

A house of worship with two entrances was erected without a basement.  The church was 36’ X 50’ and was set on a stone foundation.  It was heated by two stoves and lighted with kerosene lamps.

The cost was $50.00 for the land and $1000.00 for the building.


1892

Sunday School was started.


1893

A small room was added for the children.


1905

The building is remodeled due to the need for more space.  The two entrances were changed to one.  The partitions which formerly separated the two sides were removed.


1912

Sunday School classes were now held year round.


1916

The first structure is replaced by a brick building at a cost of $5200.22

The new building was 46’ X 70’.  There was a great deal of volunteer labor and donated material.  Kerosene lights hung from the ceiling which could be raised and lowered.


1933

Summer Bible School ministry started.


1946

Mennonite Youth Fellowship started.


1947

An addition was built to the front of the church.  The building was remodeled to include a restroom and an oil heating system was installed.


1962

The basement was completely remodeled and an oil heating system was installed.


1967

On Thanksgiving Day, November 23, fire destroyed the church.  Kissell Plumbing and Heating was used as a temporary house of worship while a new church was being constructed.






1968

On December 29 a dedication service was held in the new church. The picture to the right is from 1968.


1974

Thomas celebrated its 100th year anniversary.


1985

Handicapped entrance was added to the church.