October 5, 1892 is a memorable day in the history of Immanuel Lutheran Church of Hewitt, Wisconsin, as it marks the official beginning of the congregation.

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Lutheranism in the area, however, dates back even earlier. Before 1892, neighboring communities such as Marshfield to the west and Auburndale to the east already had established congregations with resident pastors. The first Lutheran settlers in the Hewitt area received spiritual care from these churches. As more Lutherans, many from southern Wisconsin, settled on the undeveloped land in the vicinity, the need for a local church became increasingly clear.

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The settlers contacted Pastor F. H. Siebrandt, who was serving a vacancy at Auburndale at the time. In response to their request, he conducted divine services in the granary of Henry Federwitz Sr. Like many congregations, Immanuel’s beginnings were humble.

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At a meeting called by Pastor Siebrandt in June 1892, the congregation resolved to build a church. Construction began immediately and was carried out by members under the supervision of Albert Duchow, Fred Wunrow Sr., and Gustav Wunrow. The first church building was a simple 26 by 40 foot structure. The congregation was officially organized on October 5, 1892, when Pastor William Georgi of Auburndale was called to serve.

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Over the years, several additions were made to the original building. A steeple was added, since the first structure did not include one. A parsonage and a school were also constructed to serve the growing congregation.

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In October 1988, a Planning Committee was formed to explore the possibility of building a new church. Groundbreaking for the current church took place on April 28, 1991. Three days later, with the assistance of Laborers for Christ, construction officially began.

 

The final service in the original church, which had stood for 99 years, was held on December 1, 1991. The first service in the new church took place one week later, on December 8, 1991, followed by a formal dedication ceremony on January 12, 1992.

 

The present church was built not only for its time, but for the generations to come. This vision is reflected in the continued growth of the congregation, as both infants and adults find a church home at Immanuel Lutheran Church of Hewitt.

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Immanuel Lutheran Church of Hewitt is a member of the Northern Wisconsin District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. For more information about the LCMS, please visit their website.