History
St.Paul Church was founded in 1847 when fifteen families from Lippe-Detmold, Germany settled near Davis. There was no church of their denomination in the area so they conducted services in their homes under lay leadership.
The group organized as German Evangelical St. Paul Congregation. The next year a pastor who had come to serve St. John in Freeport also served the Davis and Elroy churches.
In 1849 a stone church was built. Members brought stone from a nearby quarry. The church was without a regular pastor until 1854 when they called their first official pastor. By 1860 more room was needed. Twenty-two feet was added to the stone structure.
In January of 1885, it was decided to build a new frame church with a bell tower and steeple. The church was dedicated February 14, 1886.
The English and German languages were rivals, older generation vs. younger generation. From 1923 until 1944 services were conducted by pastors who spoke both languages.
During the 1950’s, planning took place for an educational unit. These plans were altered when fire destroyed the church on January 30, 1959. The life of the church went on, worship services were held in the Dakota High School Gymnasium.
A busy summer followed ground breaking ceremonies on April 5, 1959. A fine spirit of cooperation prevailed. Members of the congregation gave many hours of service in construction and preparation of the new building. Sunday School and Cchurch services were held in the new sanctuary January 31, 1960.