A. L. Frisbie was a pioneer minister at Plymouth Church, Des Moines, Iowa, from 1871 to 1899. After he retired he served as Pastor Emeritus for a total of 42 years of service. Martha Frisbie was a teacher and leader in the Iowa Congregational Church. Frisbie Park in Des Moines and the former Frisbie Public School were named for them. The Frisbies were active abolitionists and suffrage advocates in Des Moines. He shepherded Plymouth Congregational Church during years of growth and building. She was a teacher and a leader in women’s organizations. Her former students formed the Frisbie Club, a study club which still exists today.
Alvah and Martha Frisbie
Alvah and Martha Frisbie
Plymouth Church, Des Moines, Iowa
Plymouth Church is an historic congregation located in Des Moines, Iowa and is a member of the United Church of Christ. Plymouth is known for its long history of social justice work including anti-racism and suffrage advocacy, ClimateCare, and aid to unhoused and refugee populations. Plymouth Church is an Open and Affirming church, a Stephen Ministries church, and a Just Peace Church. The church building, located at 42nd and Ingersoll Avenue, is included as a contributing property in the Greenwood Park Plats Historic District and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013. The official name of the church is Plymouth Congregational Church of the United Church of Christ.
Current Building at 42d and Ingersoll
1909 Advertisement for Plymouth Sunday Service
First Two Plymouth Buildings 1858 and 1876
Plymouth Church, Des Moines Iowa Second Building