SWISHER COUNTY CHURCHES

When we look at the many churches in Swisher County we see in our imagination a panoramic view of people who have passed along life's highway leaving in their wake, churches that stand as monuments to their loyalty, devotion, and self-denial. The sturdy pioneers brought something to the plains more stable than just their material possessions that they crowded into their covered wagons.

The following histories attest to that fact, as they reveal these pioneers using their lives to help the future generations.

By Vivian Olson

HAPPY FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
Early in 1909 the Baptist bought a small frame building, known as the Bethel Baptist Church, located NW of Happy.

Later this building was moved to the 200 block of Main, lots donated by the Happy Townsite Co, the building paid for with donations. Although the Baptist owned this building, it was several months before they withdrew from the Union Sunday School to form their own.

For many months there was only one deacon, C. L. Gatten, and for several years the church lacked even one man who would pray in public. All offices were held by women.

The charter members included: Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Gatten, Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Gatten, Mr. and Mrs.