Vincent Ellis

The Speedwell Methodist Church building stands as a testament to fortitude and resilience. First organized in 1885, the congregation started work on the current historic structure in 1922, but because of bank and agricultural economic failures of the Depression, the building was not finished until 1941. By 1970, because of falling attendance, the congregation was merged with another Methodist Church in Allendale. Almost immediately, however, former members organized to keep the building and grounds under repair and to host annual homecomings. For the past 15 years that task of stewardship has been taken on by one man, Vincent Ellis. Painting, window repair, termite treatment, grounds maintenance, installing an historic marker, and the raising of funds to do all this work have been spearheaded by Mr. Ellis.

For his embodiment of the spirit of volunteerism and his dedication to keeping this story and this place alive, Vincent Ellis is recognized with a Stewardship Award today.