1869
In 1869 the German Evangelical Lutheran congregation was organized, with Rev. George H. Schnur presiding. Shortly after their formation they moved into the Christian Church building at 104 N. High St, now a parking lot next door to the post office.
Thomas Birkett constructed a large brick commercial structure on the north corner of Peoria and Main Streets on the square, the spot now occupied by Jim Maloof. Birkett had a wagon-making business.
The first Christian Church building was built on High Street north of Walnut.
A serious railroad accident occured two miles west of Washington, injuring 40 passengers including former Governor of New York Horatio Seymour.
In July Solomon Myers was killed by a bullet through the heart when a boy purchased some ammunition at the hardware store, loaded the weapon, and while putting the pistol in his pocket accidentally discharged the weapon. Myers last words were to not blame the boy for the accident.
Jack Gorin passed away in October. Jack was Washington's first Black resident.
George Jacquin's brewery burned to the ground January 7, 1869.
