Not much is now known about the Alpena (Pleasant Prairie) church. The Brethren Encyclopedia does not have a listing for it and the only other references are from the History of the Northern Plains (given below) and from articles in the Gospel Messenger. Below are two of the articles out of the Gospel Messenger. One showing when it was organized and the other was the last article to appear in the Gospel Messenger about the Alpena Church. As far as I know the Alpena church did not build a churchhouse.

This church was found in the 1880’s. An organization with 15 members was effected, but did not long continue. Brother B. F. Miller was in charge of the work. Unfavorable conditions of the country and emigration caused the disorganization.

As we do not see any news from this part of the Brotherhood, I thought a few items might be of general interest. By the request of the Brethren living in the vicinity of Alpena, Jerauld Co., D. T., Eld. Jacob Murray and the writer, accompanied by brethren Miller and McLane met with the brethren and sisters north of Alpena, 3 ½ miles for the purpose of organizing a church, at the hour of 10 A. M., Oct. 18, 1885. Found a goodly number of dear ones assembled. After devotional exercises, by the council it was found to be the unanimous desire of those present to effect an organization, and the work was completed in live and union of sentiment, and, by council of the church, proceeded to the work of calling for help, - one of the office of deacon, the lot falling on Bro. G. J. Royer, a worthy brother. May God bless him. By council of the church, they unanimously requested that our beloved brother, Bro. B. F. Miller be ordained to the full ministry, and be in charge off the church, namely the Pleasant Prairie church, Beadle and Jerauld counties, Dak., the request being fulfilled by the laying on the hands. After this the local organization was perfected by selecting Bro. G. J Royer, Clerk, and brother Isaac Shank, Treasurer. This locality is one among the many beautiful ones to be found in the Dakota. The Brethren here are temporally well provided for, and by their manifestations of love, enjoy richly of the spiritual blessings. What joy to those of like precious faith to meet and participate in the furtherance of the good work of our Master’s cause I pray God that the little vine here planted may bear much fruit to the honor and glory of God a more zealous little band of Christians soldiers could hardly be found, and with the ale teaching of Elder B. R. Miller, assisted by the church, certainly cannot help but bring many souls to knowledge of duty to God. And to the church for an earthly home. Ministering brethren traveling remember this church in passing through Dakota; you will be welcomed by the dear brethren. Bro. B. F. Miller resides one-half mile east of Alpena, where you will find a welcome. The organization was effected with ten members by letter and a few more present, who were not provide with letters, but were all known to be worthy of a certificate. This should not be neglected in moving from the churches east to the West. During our journey of 80 miles, we were blessed with health and the pleasantest of autumn sunshine, to speed across the beautiful and reach prairies of Brule and Jerauld counties. All agree in pronouncing our mission of the most enjoyable ones of our lives, laboring for the cause, and for the care, kind words and love manifested towards the servants called. We return thanks to the Brethren and sister of Pleasant Prairie church, D. T. May God bless the labors performed, and may sunshine and the dews of heaven fall upon the little band of believers at Alpena, will ever be my prayer. Scattered over Brule county are quite a goodly number of dear members, and preparations are being made to effect an organization, of which due notice will be given. Health good, weather pleasant. All seem to be contented and well with our lovely country, rich in producing all kinds of grain and vegetables, and yet there is room for more faithful workers. Ministerial help wanted of such as feel to make the sacrifice to save souls and secure homes on little capital. Pardon my long letter. Brethren, remember us at a throne of grace. Come and preach for us. May God bless the Brotherhood. Pray for me. Yours Fraternally, Wm. G. Cook

The Gospel Messenger July 23, 1898 page 461

Upon my return from Utah and Colorado, July 3, word awaited me to come to Alpena, S. Dak., and receive by baptism, two applicants, aged 85 and 73 years, respectively. In company with my wife I went to the place and had meeting Saturday evening, at the Royer schoolhouse, and on Sunday at the home of Brother and Sister McWilliams, for their convenience. We then drove five miles to the place of baptism, and returned to Alpena in time for evening services.

This once was known as the Alpena church, S. Dak. Eld. B. F. Miller was then in charge of the church, but about six years ago he moved away and the members now living there are without preaching, excepting when the writer visits them. We gave them a few meetings the last of February and beginning of March, and the above additions seem to be the result. There is a splendid interest there. We trust that some faithful minister will move into this little congregation, and preach the Word.

I know of no place where all things indicate a more favorable point to do good. The brethren and sister desire very much that a minister might locate with them, which is too far away to be with them as often as necessary.

Any minister, desiring a useful field of labor will please write to G. J. Royer or William Posey, Alpena. S. Dak., for further information. Any one who may, out of love, become interested in this call, “Go ye,” will find here one of the golden opportunities. Who will go? W. G. Cook. July 13.

For more information about the member please E-mail me (Dennis) at orwahist@aol.com

Benjamin F Miller & wife Catharine (Puterbaugh) - (Elder) formerly of Ill.

George J Royer & wife Barbara (Stone) - (Deacon) formerly of Mt. Morris, Ill

Isaac R Shank & wife Sarah (Stover) - (Deacon), formerly from Falling Spring Church PA, moved back to PA

George Sprecher, formerly of Mt Morris, ILL (George may never have lived in S Dak., but he did buy land there)

Wolsey Cemetery, 1/2 Mi. S & 1 Mi. East of Wolsey Beadle Co., ( Sec 19 Twp 111 R 63)