History Timeline

Learn more about Lima Rescue Mission through the years.

November 1, 1906

Founded

history 01 smallLima Rescue Mission was founded by Rev. Adam Welty to provide a haven for poor and homeless men. The Mission was originally located in a rented house at 207 E. North Street in Lima.

November 1, 1906

May 1914

A Growing Need

In a short time, the Mission outgrew the house it occupied, and additional space was needed. A site at the corner of Central and Wayne was secured with a down payment of $200.

March 1916

Construction Begins

Excavation began at the lot at Central and Wayne; construction was suspended during World War I, and resumed after the war.

March 1916

June 1920

Moving

history 02 smallThe Mission finally moved in to its new three-story building at 216 E. Wayne Street.

1952

Rev. James Welty

history 03 smallRev. James Welty named director; he served at the Mission from 1949-2008.

1952

1974

Camp Roberts

history 05 smallCamp Roberts summer ministry to inner-city children began; the camp is located on 54-acres in Shawnee Township.

1998

Chuck Ferguson

history 04 smallChuck Ferguson named director; he began work at the Mission in 1978.

1998

Today

Ministry Continues

After 114 years, the ministry to poor and homeless men is carried on much as it always has been, providing food, shelter, and clothing as well as a Gospel witness to all who come for assistance.

To learn more about our history, you can download a booklet called "Journey of Faith."