Author, Charles Joray was the featured speaker at the March 21, 2026 meeting of the Wells County Genealogy Society. Charles shared some stories and photos from his recent book, “The Early History of Vera Cruz, Indiana 1838 – 1910. He also announced that work is well underway for a second book about Vera Cruz which will be out in a few months.
This photo appears in the book and it is the St. John German Reformed Church, built in 1909 in Vera Cruz. Made of red brick from Brazil, Indiana with a total construction cost of $8,500. The church featured a large sanctuary with two balconies and it could seat 700 people. It was dedicated on November 14, 1909. On the night of February 18, 1980 a fire thought to be caused an electrical malfunction destroyed the church. Only the brick walls were standing and the church bell was saved. A new St. John Church was constructed and dedicated on January 11, 1981 at a cost of $185,000. Today the building is the St. John Worship Center which is part of the Church of Christ in Christian Union denomination.
Another photo that the author shared was the Vera Cruz Hoop (cooperage or barrel) Factory. This photo shows the nearly 20 people that worked at the factory which was located in the northeast part of Vera Cruz during the 1890’s – early 1900’s.
Larry McAfee, president of the Wells County Genealogy Society conducted a short business meeting that included the discussion about the fall “My Town & Cemetery Walk” program.
The meeting and program was shared via Zoom. It was recorded and plans call for it to be posted on the Facebook page of the Wells County Genealogy Society.
The book is available for purchase for $45 from Joray via e-mail at: joray.org. He may also be reached at 765-210-0913.
Wells County Historical Society and Museum 
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