It was in 1886 that the first seed of Christian Science was planted in Oskaloosa by the healing of a hopeless and helpless cripple—by that same power which restored the lame man at the temple gate, centuries ago. Soon afterward a sufferer who had been bedridden nine years was raised to health and strength. Still others were freed from their diseases, and these followers of the truth gathered together in the spirit of the promise, "Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."
For several years meetings were held at the residences of the different ones on Sunday afternoons with an attendance of twelve to fourteen. Then came a change, when all of this number with a single exception removed from the city to other localities, leaving one lone adherent to the teachings of Christian Science. After many months the number increased to three, and when on Oct. 20, 1897, First Church of Christ, Scientist, was organized and incorporated under the laws of the state, it was with a membership of five.
Public services were held in rooms in the Wight man Building, and although for a time the demands financially seemed greater than the supply, even as the children of Israel overcame doubt and distrust of God's willingness and ability to care for His own, and manna fell from the skies, so this little band's faith in God was tested, and they too gained in courage and strength and in assurance of God's loving care for His flock—in the supply of their every need. Two years later the organization moved to larger quarters, built for its special use, in the extension to the Wightman Building, where it remained for over twelve years.
