First Evangelical Lutheran Church

The history of FELC begins about 1870. At that time Centerville became a popular place for a Swedish settlement. Some came here direct from Sweden other earlier settlements were in Munterville, Ottumwa and elsewhere. Swedish people being a "religious disposition organized a church and claimed the name, First Evangelical Lutheran Church.

In the years 1879 and 1880 Pastor Benzon of Jefferson County preached in people's homes in the community. The congeration was organized on May 30, 1881 at the home of John Peterson by Pastor Benzon.

The initial frame church was built in 1818 at the corner of 19th and Terry. The first service in this church was held on New Year's Eve in 1882 and was dedicated in 1883. An addition of 14 feet was made in 1897 and a church bell was added in the belfry in 1898. cost of the original building was $900. The parsonage was built adjoining the church building in 1891.

In 1912 "The Young People's Society" bought a lot on the corner of 15th and Sheridan where our present church is located. The new building was put up in 1924 at a cost of $18,000.00. The cornerstone was laid in August of 1924 and dedicated in June 1925.