John J Young, Sr was a “prosperous and well-liked farmer from the area” who was heavily involved with the Bethesda community’s social growth. He is believed to be the constructor of Bethesda School in approximately 1898 and continued to help by ensuring firewood was delivered and repairs were made. Mr. Young also helped establish the neighboring Bethesda Church, which was known for its annual fish-fry, described as a “carnival, dancing marathon and old-timers’ reunion rolled into one”.