History: 

Zion was first organized in 1845 as part of three congregations of German speaking people. The first meeting place was a log house at the corner of East Washington Street and Union Street. At that time Zion was under the leadership of Rev. John Konradi. The church name was German United Evangelical Lutheran and Reformed Zion Church. About 83 members continued together until approximately 1860. The first church was constructed in 1860. Twenty years later the parsonage was built to the left of the churchOn April 14, 1859 Zion Lutheran Church was incorporated under the direction of Pastor C.F. Diehl. Forty-three members (all male) signed the incorporation papers. A new church building was started at the corner of East Main Street and Union Street. The new church was dedicated July 7, 1861.

During the year from 1861 to 1900 the services gradually changed from German to English, as the congregation became more Americanized and English became the first language taught in the schools.

On May 11, 1902 the old frame church was closed and a new brick building was built and dedicated under the guidance of Rev. M.R. Walter, The structure was much larger and contained all the amenities of electric lights, proper heating and bathroom facilities. More than 800 members, guests and friends attended the dedication.