Decades of Growth - 1910's

In 1909-10, the pastor was Rev. George R. Hageman, the first to receive an annual salary in four figures --- $1,000. Records of 1909 tell us that lightning struck the building, burning out fuses and damaging the organ and cupola. Then, a few years later, March winds blew off the cupola roof, after which the cupola had to be taken down. Presumably, it was replaced soon afterward by the present tower.

Rev. Frank E. DePue came to us in 1911 and remained through the First World War, a period of over eight years. He is remembered for his large Men's Bible Class. The spiritual tone of the church at this time was excellent. A roll of honor for boys in service was put up in the vestibule. Stained glass windows were installed on both sides of the sanctuary and in front.

During this time, the new commuter settlement of Mountain Lakes was springing up. Rev. DePue and our congregation assisted in the formation of a Reformed Church there. For a few months in 1913 and 1914 we shared Rev. DePue with them as their Sunday morning supply minister, until they were ready to call their own pastor. Rev. DePue preached in Boonton on Sunday evenings, resuming full pastorate here in June, 1914. The Mountain Lakes church grew and, eventually, became known as the Community Church.