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
