A view of construction taking place on the outside of a Baptist church in Vandalia. On verso: "Vandalia, Ill. Baptist Church - a mission started by Rev. H. C. First when Supt. of State Missions."
An exterior view of the First Baptist Church of Edwardsville parsonage. On verso: "The white pole is part of Tennis Court. Facing St. Louis St. Route No 4 State, Route No 66. Fed[e]ral."
John Mason Peck was a Baptist missionary in Illinois and Missouri, an anti-slavery advocate, author, educator, and founder of the Rock Spring Seminary. The seminary relocated to Alton in the 1830s and changed its name to Shurtleff College in 1836 to…