An inspiring and varied history of the Mennonites in the Paso Robles area began in 1896. Pioneers Jacob Hege and Jacob E. Claassen came to this area to evaluate the land. They decided to settle east and west of Paso Robles. Mr. Hege liked the Estrella plains and Mr. Claassen preferred the Godfrey Ranch near the Nacimiento River. Other families came soon after and, in the fall of 1897, organized the first Mennonite church in California. Rev. Jacob Hege was elder and Rev. A.J. Wiebe was assistant pastor.
In the fall of 1898 the one church decided to meet in two locations due to travel distances and some cultural differences. By 1903 the two groups chose to become individual congregations. After a fire destroyed the Willow Creek Mennonite Church in 1967, the two churches again became one serving our Lord Jesus Christ.
Though never large in numbers, these Mennonite congregations touched many lives in this community.
"For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ" - 1 Corinthians 3:11
In memory of Walter and Elise Claassen Fast

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Show me all markers in:  Paso Robles, CA  |  San Luis Obispo County  |  93446  |  California  |  United States of America

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Pittsburg Pirates

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