Rice, Elial J. (1822 - 1872)
The young reverend is credited with organizing and preaching the town's first protestant sermon in 1868, at the newly-built Methodist Church.� While many preachers served from town-to-town, Rice stayed in Trinidad.� His church affiliation served many social functions and laid a moral foundation for the young community.� Upon his death, Rice High School, the E. J. Rice Hose Company, and other landmarks were named in his honor.
�
He is buried in Block 66, Lot E2 (of Masonic Cemetery in Trinidad).
From "From the Grave, A Roadside Guide to Colorado's Pioneer Cemeteries," by Linda Wommack, published by Caxton Press, Caldwell, Idaho�in 1998
