An undated portrait photograph of Harry U. Hoy, who served as Janitor of David’s Evangelical and reformed Church, Killinger, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania.
The following brief story appeared with the photo:
Mr. Harry U. Hoy became the janitor of David’s Church, April 1, 1924, and has served faithfully in that position until the present time [1950]. To hold that position for 20 years is quite an achievement, for it requires broad shoulders and infinite patience.
He is also caretaker of the cemeteries of David’s and Salem Lutheran Church, a job in which he takes great pride. Thanks to him, our cemeteries are always in excellent condition. During his time of service he has dug between five and six hundred graves.
An entry in an old record book shows that Mrs. Alfred Hoy was paid for janitor service for one year, 1915 to 1916. It was the practice in those days to have the ministers and their families act as janitors. A notation on one of the record books stated, “Rev. William Miller was paid $6.00 in full for janitor services to the end of his pastorate.
Arthur Hoy was made janitor in 1919. Jacob Miller relieved him in 1920 and continued in that position until Mr. Hoy took up his duties as janitor.
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From commemorative history, One Hundred Eightieth Anniversary David’s Evangelical and Reformed Church, 1770-1950.
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