Hx of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Westgate

In 1882, a formal call was sent to Rev. Haenschke of Spring Fountain to lead services at a school house northwest of Westgate. On December 19, 1885 the church was incorporated with seven charter members: Joseph Beecher, Christian Decker, George Knief, G. A. Koelling, Martin Lang, Phillip Knief, and Wm Klammer.

By 1886, arrangements were made to purchase three acres of land northwest of Westgate, on which a modest chapel (16x24x10 feet) was built. The south side was set aside for a cemetery, which remains there to this day.

On July 1, 1888, the congregation joined the Missouri Synod and called their own pastor, Rev. H.E. Jacobs. A house was purchased from Mr. John Rueber for $300 and moved onto the church property as a parsonage.

Since the new village of Westgate had come into existence with the arrival of the Great Western railroad (1886 ) it appeared more logical to move the congregation there. A three acre plot adjoining Main St. was purchased from S. F. Cass for $250, with members purchasing the southern portion. By January 1, 1893 it was voted to build a church (30x48x18 feet high), for $1,000. It was dedicated August 7, 1893.

During Pastor Webbeking’s pastorate (1924-1930) the church was renovated, the constitution was revised and regular English services were introduced for the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month. In January of 1927, it was voted to replace the old parsonage at a cost of $4,000. Henry Treptow, C.T. Heller, Anton Reinking, Herman Potratz, Carl Gemmels, Wm. Gumm, Henry Lange and Carl Meyer were elected to gather pledges to finance the project. It was noted if al members pledged in the same spirit in which they voted for the new house there would be no problem in financing the project. By March, the committed reported $3,315 had been pledge so work was begun by the Fratzke Brothers.

During Pastor Schultz’ pastorate, the congregation experienced many changes over the 31 years. By 1951, the present structure was enlarged by the addition of a north and south wing and full basement. Also a new altar, pulpit, lectern, baptismal font was added with the rebuilding of the pipe organ and installation of windows above the altar. On Palm Sunday, 1962, two 7 branch candelabras were dedicated.

In the spring of 1963, a general renovation of the parsonage took place. The kitchen was remodeled, floors refinished and the hitching post out front was removed.

In 1975, the congregation decided to add on an enlarged lobby with the main entrance to the south.

In 1994, a sacristy area was added and a portion of the parking lot was paved.

In 2003, an elevator was installed along with new carpet in the sanctuary.

In October 2004, St. Peter entered a dual parish relationship with Grace Lutheran in Fayette.

In November 2010, St. Peter began to celebrate 125 years of God’s blessings bestowed on us.