Established in 1886 by laymen who wished to spread Episcopal doctrine, Saint Stephen’s House became a charitable institution in St. Louis. Working out of a series of tents, Reverend Richard W.E. Green took control of St. Stephen’s House from the laymen and continued with the spread of doctrine as well as charitable programs until 1891 when Reverend Richard Gustavus Tuckerman succeeded him. Under Tuckerman’s leadership, a church was built in St. Stephen’s name in 1905 at Sixth Street and Rutger Street. Prior to construction of the church in 1901, Reverend Henry Watson Mizner (1869-1930) arrived at St. Stephen’s and later took over for Tuckerman. Popular among parishioners and successful as a missionary, Mizner stayed at St. Stephen’s for twenty-five years, expanding the community outreach programs and bringing youth programs to the church. Through much fundraising and donations, Mizner kept the mission work of St. Stephen’s active in St. Louis and recognized around the nation. On March 6, 1921, Bishop Daniel S. Tuttle officially recognized St. Stephen’s House as St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, and instituted Mizner as first priest and rector the same day. Mizner stayed at St. Stephen’s until 1926, when he resigned as pastor and moved with his family to Florida. Reverend Roy Spencer Rawson became pastor of St. Stephen’s following Mizner’s departure. In 1928, Mizner suffered a stroke and died two years later on July 9th in Paris. Programs of St. Stephen’s included the Men’s Club, Mother’s Club, Girls’ Friendly Society, Boy Scouts, Women’s Auxiliary, and also St. Stephen’s-in-the-Hills. Located in Allenton, Missouri, St. Stephen’s-in-the-Hills served as a country getaway for parishioners (especially for children as a summer camp).