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Maps, plates, charts, etc., may be filmed at different reduction ratios. Those too large to be entirely included in one exposure are filmed beginning in the upper left hand corner, left to right and top to bottom, as many frames as required. The following diagrams illustrate the method: Les cartes, planches, tableaux, etc., peuvent Stre filmds A des taux de reduction diff^rents. Lorsque le document est trop grand pour etre reproduit en un sguI clichd, il est film6 A partir de Tangle sup^rieur gauche, de gauche d droite, et de haut en bas, en prenant le nombre d'images ndcessairc. Les diagrammes suivants illustrent la mdthode. 1 m £. 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 THE HISTORY OF THE FieST BiPTIST ull R Ull, WOODSTOCK, ONT., FOR THE FIRST SEVENTY YEARS-^FROM APRIL 22, 1822, TO APRIL 22, 181)2. BY R. W. SAWTELL. (. Printed for the Church by THE WOODSTOCK TIMKS. 1802 S3 V It E V A C E. At theiuontlily business meetin,!; of tlie cliurch held September 16tli, 1891, the following minute occurs: '-That Bi'other R. W. "Hawtell be appointed to write the history of this church." This is the extent of the instructi(vas gi\-en — not a word of ad- vice as to length or breadth oi' scope or plan. No wonder that the matter was never looked into till late in winter ; and when it Avas also well known that others hadbeeji previously "appoint- •ed" to the work, but had given it up aft&r ''looking- into it." No wonder, I say, that it was with reluctance that it v.-as ever undertaken by one who had neither experience nor knowledge in "bookmaking." But the fact remained that the church Avanted it done and loyalty to the church demanded sacrifice on the part of some one of its members, thus the task was accepted, The "history" is simply a condensed compilation of the minutes of the Church business and to any but the members ivnd their friends can afford but little pleasure or interest, and for them it is written simply as a book of reference, making no claim to literary merit nor presenting any striking or extraor- dinary historical events — yet with the writer's conviction that it will bo appreciated by the present and future members of the Church OS a memento of the doings ot those who have ^one be- f.)re and are now enjoying the fruits of their labors in tho "^'Better Land." lyTliODrCTION. Few churches of any denomination possess records the publi- cation of which would excite interest outside its own member- bership and adherents. 8ome have been published and failed even to interest its own members. Among the few which have created more than ordniary notice "The Broadmead Records"^ may be juentioned. This was the history of an old Baptist Church at Bristol, England, existing since the year 1G40, and which had the distinction of furnishing victims deemed worthy of persecution and imprisonment, if not for the stake, for opinions held and maintained in favor of soul-liberty, and who willingly suffered tortures in defence of the truth. The First Baptist Church of Oxford possesses no such striking records, hence can claim no such distinction, neither can "we hope to create an interest outside our own circle and friends. Probably not one in a handreer should give «a relation of the work of (rod's ,i,'race on their liearts and the travel of their minds touch- ing,' the present ap],>lication which was individually complied Avith, and after wliich he proceeded to c( i.stilute and organiz- the church in gr.spel order and lule. After v, hicli came for- ward Brothers V. Welch and D. Cross and joined the church, and th.e ])rethr«n ^ave Bro. Gross liberty to improve his gifts in holding meetings and expounding th.e Scriptures wherever (lod in His providence may open a door." (Sgd) Salmon King, ch. elk. At the same meeting, Joseph North lip and John Baldwin tohl their experience, were baptized and received the hand of fellowship, thus constituting a church of twenty-one mem- bers. A covenant and rules of faith, almost as long as. the 39 articles, were adopted and subscribed to by every member. One article provided for the setting apart one day in every month to acknowledge their* covenant. Thus began th.;it, to them, all im})ortant meeting which seemed to constitute tlu^ test of true disci})leship and firm jidherence to the cause. For a period of forty years thcr,e monthly weekday meetings were lield v/itli morc^ or less regularity and enthusiasm, l)ut wer-^ long since replaced by the weekly prayer meeting, where the cditication of (\'ich other by the rehition of Christian expei'ience was continued, but the praetfte of exclusion for failing to confess oially to the covenant and articles of faith was discontinued. Another .irticle ])rovided for disci|)line of members by the \ote of ''male members onlv." It would be in- teresting to reproduce tlie whole but sj)ace forbids. April '2d. The cliuj-cli met at tlie seho(^l house near Bro. Cross', agr(H\'-ble ti^ notice, "•to receive a numbei* of members which could not attend last Saturd;iy, when Elder Talhnan pi-eached. On the f(»Il(V,ving Sunday they were liaptized and received the hand or fellowship, after which thf connnunion of tiu> Lord's supper was celebrated." At every nu^nthly m^^etini,' jidditions were made to this infant cause and tlie Spirit of Chi ist was manifest in the couAcrsion of souls. At the June meeting Elders Bangford and Tallman preached. James Harris (after preaching un the following Sun- #i Ifi FIRST BAPTIST CIIURril. II day) was "received into fellowship and granted a license to im- prove his gifts." On the K3th of October "A general meeting" was held near Horner's Creek, in Blenheim, at the house of Joseph Smith, Elder Tallman preached, after wliich eiglit were l)a]itized in Horner's Creek, A chui'ch vas then formed consisting of thirteen memljers. J. (roble was elected to serve as deacon and Bro. Slaiighson, clerk. Richard Tims was the first deacon elected to serve the Oxford church. Oh the 31st of the same month we learn that "a council was held in the house of David Curtis for the purpose of ordaining Darius Ci'oss and James Harris." The delegates from the Ox- church were Elder Tallman, L. H. Perry, Vine Welch, J. B. Tree and Salmon King. Elder Tallman was moderator and S. King, clprk. At the iNovember covenant meeting the first case of discipline (Tlie cause beini;- excessive drinking) was carried to the exclusion of the meml)cr. Anionic the additions for the vear of its oi'ifanization v/e find the familiar names of Abigail Bui'tch, Laura Harris, N. Hill, J. Yanduzen and Josepli S, Sickles On the 25th of Janii.iry, 1(S23, the (]uestion of finance was discussed, appiirently for the first time, and it has been a live and important question all through its histoi'v. C)n that occasion the conclusion reached was embodied in this resolve: "That each male member shall pay six ce?its per month for the necess- ary expenses of the churcii and tha^ Salmon King be the- treasurer to receive the said tax." There are two points woa'thy of notice here, viz: "That Canada Cun-encv" was not then in common use and that cliurch finances were not characterized V)V A'oluntaryism. The next item worthy of note occurs March 29th, 182.S, when, after the covenant meeting- it was "voted that an address be sent to the free comniuni(^n iJaptist conference, to l)e held at Bowman's Creek next June, and ;i day to be set apart for fasting and i>rayer tlie second T!uir>dav in May. This; was the first eflnrt to s;-ek recognition by tlie l.>()dy to which the church had attached itself. At the covenant nieeting Api'il 2nth, Jolni Smith from the^ States was received by expt'rience and letters of recommendation- and was licensed to improve his gifts. PWiaBS!"PP5!«W!l!iPJiLL i,.- J^JU—- r;^ 12 THE HISTORY OF THE During the year 1823 we find that Elders Talhnan, Cross and Harris made frequent visits to the lower settlement — as South Norwich was then called — and preached acceptably and the result was that in February, 1824, "the brethren there asked to be set apart as a branch churcli/' This appears to have been done after the genei'al conference and what is now known as the iSpringford church was duly constituted. Among the many familiar names of persons admitted in 1824 ^ve iind those of Sprague, Dibble, Aldrich, Dean, Luddington, Clark, Lamport, Hallock and Burteh. The last named was baptized on the 28th day of August and in December following he was appointed deacon, and L. H. Perry church clerk. On January the IGth, 1825, a meeting was held in Taft's school house in ZoiTa — or over the river as it was called — when A. Taft and wife, E. Cody and wife, M. Cody and E. McQuain were baptized. On the following June we tind that A. Taft was appointed deacon and Darius Cross clerk of that branch oi the church in Zorra. Among the papers preserved are the original minutes of "The Free Conimunion F.aptist Association of Upper Canada, in convention at the house of Deacon Archibald Bui'tch in East Oxford, on the 24th of June, 1825/' at which Elder Goble preached and Eklors Cross and Harris and many others felt clie "freedom of the Spirit and spoke of the goodness of God." Elder Goble was chosen moderator, and L. H. Perry, clerk of the conference;, then proceeded to read the letters of the churches, when the following statistics were given, viz: Blen- heim church :)7 mpmbprs : Soushold 15; Oxford 79; Norwich 15 : total 14(). A i)etition from the Norwich branch was read "asking to be set apart as a church." Petition granted and the hand of fellowship given by the moderator. After completing the business of the conference it was "voted that the clerk prepare the minutes for the press and have them printed.'" On the .30th of July a covenant meetino: was held at Harris Street, for the purpose of settling some ditficulty among the brethren, the nature of which is indistinguishable in the fading record, Init some exclusions took place : the frequency of which in those early days indicate that either a laxness in the ad- FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 13. mission of mombers or a puritanical strictness in discipline ex- isted. The vears 1824 and 1825 witnessed lari^e accessions, number- ini^ not less than 42, mostly by Ijaptism. Among them were- members of families whose descendants remain with us, vi.: : Hallock, Rowell, Dolson, Lamport, Burtch and Gee, not for- gettincf one who more than any other in after years taught and served the church in its various struggles and prosperities for nearly twenty five years, we refer to William Henry Landon. . He was admitted by letter on the 30th of December, 182"). About the same period Jane Blow, who had been Imptized by Elder Cross and joined the church in Blenheim, subse<]uently coming to AVoodstock and becoming a member where she has to- this, its seventieth anniversary, wielded a great influence by her walk, conversation and example as the honored wife and widow of Deacon Burtch. At the January meeting 1826, several cases of discipline were dealt with and exclusions followed in great solemnity. At the same meeting Deficon A. Burtch was chosen church clerk protem. By the close of this year the number of members had reached the comparatively large aggrf^gate of eighty. The covenant meetings had been variously well attended either at Taft's school house, at Harris street in West Oxford, in the^ Rowell settlement in East Zorra, or at head quarters — Gr)vernor's Road — as the place where W^oodstock now stands was then called. While they seemed to have liad no paid pastor the churcli was supplied and the ordinances administered by Elder Tallman, then ElV.r Cross, while Elders Harris and Golile fre- quently preached. The first church worshipped in the log- school house on the corner of what is now Dundas and Chapel streets, and when the congregation was large in Deacon Burtch's^ barn. In 1827 no additions were made and only two in 1828. On the 30th of August of this year W. H. Landon was duly ordained an elder, and thence forward devoted much of his tinm and talent to the interests of the church. CHAPTER ir. Special Zeal— Elder David Makkk— EFroins for a Union or Baptists — Failure — Zorka Church — Harris Street Church — New Frame Chapel — Elder Landon's Pastorate — The First Sexton — First Association— Communion Restricted. The year 1829 seemed to have been a year of Cfreat zeal and 1 irire accessions. Auionij^ the lirst baptized we lind the names of George and Hannah JJlalvC, Anna Welch, Henry and Lucy L import; L;iter in the yeai", iStephen B. Tree, Tliomas Earl, Elijah Hill, lienjjimin Laraport, Edward Topping and many others, numbering forty-two, whose names are still familiar to us and many of whom the older mi'mbers were well acquainted with. Jeremia Letts, one of the 4*J mentioned, was shortly after made churcli clerk, l)ut some troul)le having arisen he resigned till it should be cleared up and Deac(.)n Burtjh .'igain assumed the duties. On the 12th, 13th and 14th of June 1829, the "Eighth annual Free Communion Ijaptist conference of Upper Canada" was held in the house of Deacon Burtch. A copy of the minutes has been preserved which states "That Elder David Marks preached the introductory discourse from 1 Peter 2-5 verses." David Miirks in his autobiography refers to this occasion and ^^ays: "The Lord favored me with one of my best seasons and -comforted the hearts of many." He goes on to say "our yearly meeting had appointed Bro. Straight and myself to attend this conference, to open a correspondence and labor to effect a union with this people. They received us affectionately and advised their churches to appoint messengers to meet in conference with us in two weeks." This conference seems to have been a ^ery pleasant one. Elder Landon v/as elected Moderator and Oran Wright, Clerk. The number repented as members of the Oxford Church was G9. Elder Marks, as neaily all know, was an evangelist whose labors FIRST BAPTIST CIIUHCJI. 15 111 the interest of tlie " Free-will Baptist CJiurch of America " Avere remarkable. He made several tijui's tlirough this part of Canada, preaching to large assemblies who gathered fi'om great wing were appointed delegates to the general ccmference, viz.: Elders J. Harris and J. Goble, bi'ethren A. Burtch, S. Rowell, M. Cody, E. Cr(jss and E. Topping. It is not stated where the co'iference was held this year. At the covenant meeting, held at the scliool-liouse, July ol, 1S30, Bro. Coullmrn asked for a '"letter (tf recommendation from the church." On being asked why ? he replied : ''That, being a public speaker, he coukl not conscientiously preach final perseverence." The church " voted he should have a letter, l)ut not of I'ecommendation ; for he bi-ought pointed church clerk. There is no other record for tliat yea)'. Foi- 1834-5 there is no record, and until October, 183G, there seems to have })een a barren, Uiifruitful period. Covenant meet- ings were occasionally held for discipline, but no evidence is given of stated preachiiig. At this time, however, there was " a numifest disposition to return t(j the Lord, from whom they had wandei'ed." FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 17 A fi'.'iiiic cliapol was erected, and (opened on the 27tli day of December, 1836. Elder L;indon preached the dedication ser- mon, from Psahn 27, verse 4. The meetings were continued eleven days, and "the Lord poured out His spirit in a wonder- ful manner — saints were revived and souls converted." Jjinuary 1st, 1837, n large number were })aptised, including the names of W. and E. lavey, Julius Perry, James, Jac(»b and Maiy Topping, Mary Perry, J3. Luddington and others^. At the covenant meeting January 28th, 1837, Almon Ti-ee and Huldah Tree presented letters from Rusliford ;ind Lyndon, N, York, and Belinda Landon, T. Mathews, Cliester Withy, Pamelia Luddington and Fi-ances Waterbury received the hand of fellowship ; and ;it the cl(»e of the meeting it was voted : " That five dollars shall be paid out of the common fuiids of the cliurch to Master Henry Bui-tch ; upon the condition that he make all the necessary tires, in proper season, for all the meet- ings of lJio church, and keeping the liouse swept, until the lirst of January, 1838." The record fails to tell if the money v, as paid or the conditions complied with. Nor does it say that tlie rebellion of that year interfered v.ith the fullilluient of the duties. The party named has no recollection of spending the stipend mentioned, hence it is unlikely that he carried (jut the contract. February 25, 1837, R. PI. Burtcli and Elijah Tree were bap- tised by elder Landon. James Guild and" William Burtch, March 3rd. At the April covenimt meeting, a resolution was passed to " make a su))scription for the tempoi'al support of Elder Landon for the coming year. ' August 28th an effort was made with the Eastern Baptist Association to hold a general convention of Baptists at Towns- end, to meet the third Wednesday in September. Elder Lan- don and Deacon Burtch to be dele^irates, with authority to " support an association, without infringing on the rights of in- dividual cliurches." Here we observe the indication of sturdy. Baptist independence. ill 18 THE IIISTOKY OF THE E. Topping and Pliilip Mitchell were rtppointed deacons- on the 30th of Sept. # There is no record for 1839. May 30th, 1840, E. Toppin.o-, A. Burtch, G. Blake, J. Letts and Elder Landon were elected delegates to the association to ))e held at Waterford. On the 2oth of July the delegation reported to the church in ffivor of v/ithdrawal from the association., vrhich was accordingly done, but no reason is assicned for such withdrawal. May 30th, 1841, Elder Landon was appointed a delegate to Haldiniand for the purpose of "meeting the ministers of the de- nomination," and August the 27th it was ordered that a col- lection be t;iken up next day to defray the expenses of said dele- gate. At the same meeting B. H. Burtch v,as elected church clerk and in the month of October treasurer also. Sept. 25th, 1841, it was "voted that there be no invitations on communion occasions hereafter, until a final adjustment of the (piestion." On the 29th of January, 1842, it was moved by G. Blake, seconded })V A. Burtch, That the conmiunion ("uestion he. settled -thrtt tlie communion be restricted to baptised believers" carried without a dissenting voice. Thus a (juestion which no doubt had led to i Miny dissentions and frecpient discussions was unanimously set at rest and the church came more into harmony Avith the pi-actice of the regular Baptist churches of the Province, now rfiiijfiiv mcreasniof. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 19 CHAPTEEIIL Elder Landon Resigned — Call to Rkv. Mr. Bosworth— Short Pastorate — Objections to Women Si'eakino in PuiJLic— His Resignation — A Call to Elder Landon not Accei'ted — Elder Topping Accepted a Call to the Pastorate— His Resignation. Elder Landon, ^vhose connection witli the clmrcli luul been long and protita})le, resigned July 31st, 1842. It was ti;cn re- solved to extend a call to the Rev, Mr. Bosworth. The call was accepted and he became the p;istor of the chiircii. Rev. Mr. Landon shortly after applied for a letter which v.as granted. Feb. 25, 1843, Re^-. Mr. Bosworth and wife pre;-(^nted their letters and were received. At the same meeting an apj^lication was made l)y letter by the Brantford church for assistance in money, but no action was taken. It appears that even in tlie ''good old days of yore" chui'ches were not entirely free from some of the evils so prevalent fit the present time. At the April business meeting in 1844 we learn that the Rev. N. Bosworth "gave a statement of the pecuniaiy aftairs of the church,'' when it was agreed, that the "Deacons collect sub- scriptions." August 31st, 1844, Elizabeth Lay cock w^as admitted as a can- didate for baptism. At a subsecjuent meeting bre^thren John Muir, T. Letts, W. Pavey, A. Burtch and P. Mitchell were ap- pointed a committee to visit delinquent members and cite them to the Hi'st covenant meeting. This same matter has alwavs been a trouble to the church officers throughout its history and we may be sure that it is not peculiar to this church. But in the early days we learn that the covenant meeting was looked upon as the true test of discipleship. One might absent himself from the connnunion on Sabbath and nothing said, but if absent from the covenant 20 THE HISTORY OF THE meeting twice in succossiou he was at once cited to appear at the next, and if he could not give a sufficient reason for absence he was warned that he would be labored with, and many were excluded for non-attendance. Others who attended and failed to "acknowlege their covenant," were likewise dealt with. At the monthly meeting held November 30th it was agreed that a prayer meeting be held at the house of Deacon Burtch " for the prosperity of the church." The following monthly meeting was one of more than usual interest. The past(jr, Mr. Bosworth, stated that from an ex- amijiation of the Scriptures, it was his opinion that it was not scriptural for females to speak in public meetings, therefore, he felt it liis duty on account of his difterence of opinion with the church to tender his resignation as pastor. He left with the statement that "he would return to the meeting if required." The Rev, E, Topping was at once called to the chair — When it was moved by G. Blake seconded by J. Muir "That both males and females give their opinion on the subject." A lengthened discussion took place resulting in resolutions being passed as follows : Res( lived 1st "That we cannot perceive passages of Scripture in the Bible to prohiljit females from speaking and praying in common with the males in public meetings." Resolved 2nd "That we respectfully receive the resignation of Mr. Bosworth as pastor of this church, but cordially invite him to preach for us as long as he is at liberty or until the church can obtain anotlier pastor — pledging ourselves to contribute as. formerly." — Carried by a large majority. At the monthly meeting in May the Rev. N. Bosworth ap- plied for letters of dismission for himself and wife which were granted. Thus ended a two years' pastorate of a man whom we are as- sured was a scholar and a gentleman, as well as a pious and elo- quent preacher. His cultured and student habits seemed to have unfitted him for the rural, uncultured state of society, which necessarily existed at that early period. It is natural to sup- FIRS'? BAPTIST CHURCH. 21 earliest received country and on pose that a people accustomed to the burning and Stirling Ijut homely and practical preaching of such evangelists as Tallman, Cross, Harris, Marks, and Lanaon, could not so readily appreci- ate the highly cultured and scholastic learning as it is said this pastor manifested in his discourses. It is true that Mr. Landon had, in a measure, introduced a style of preaching both learned and exalting, acquired by diligent self culture and intense study, but Mr. Bosworth seemed to have been in advance of the environment of the times and circumstances which he had fallen into in this new world. On the 31st of May, 1845, "a unanimous call " was tendered to Rev. W. H. Landon, to again become the pastor of tha church, but it was not accepted. Deacon Letts and wife who were among the very settlers of Zorra as well as niend)ers of this church letters of dismission, Aug. 25th, on their leaving this for the States. A committee was appointed to procure a pastor, the 27th of December, they reported "That as the Rev. E. Topping had officiated as pastor for about nine months he be now called to the pastoral care of the church." Ko o))jections were raised. On the following day Mr. Topping accepted the charge. This union only continued till the August meeting, 1846, when we find that "the Hev. E. Topping resigned the pastoral care of the church." At the September meeting a resolution was unanimously passed, again calling the Rev. Mr. Landon to assume the duties of pastor. On the 30th of January, 1847, it was agreed that a tea meet- ing should be held in the chapel on the 25th of February and the proceeds thereof applied to repairing the chapel. Rev. Mr. Landon, M. L. Green, Geo. Midgley and R. H. Burtch to be the committee of management and subsequently "spend the money as they think proper on the chapel." On the 28th of March another advance step was taken, viz : X t I' Q9 THE UISTOUY OF THE "That tlio seats be alk»to(l and the persons choosing a seat pay what tliey think proper for one year/' Bi'o. John Hatch and C. C. Carryer v/e re baptized April 2oth and received tht; hand of felk)^vship as members of the church. An adjourned clinrch meeting was held on the 14th of October, 1H47, wljon a seiies of resolutions was passed having reference to the progress and welfare of the church, and among them was one to api)ointa sexton permanently and empower him to charge 10 shillings for digging each grave, retaining 7s. 6 pence for his own soi-N ices and paying the balance to the treasurer to form a fund to keep the grounds in repair; "That a collection be taken up every Sabl)ath for contingent expenses;" "That this church cannot consider any person a member of it who does not under ordinary circumstances meet with it at least every >Sabbatli.'' The burying ground was on an opposite lot on the west side of CIiai>pl street as well as on the chapel lot. CHArTEli IV DiscouEAKiNG Times — Reoroanizatiox — Rldeu Landon Aoain Re- Sl(i>'S~ELl)EH WlNTERBOTHAM — ReoULAR BaPTIST PkINOTPLES — Grand River Association - Cleiiuv Reserves - Elder Winter- both am Resigns. It is evident from the experience of this church, and probably of all others, that members cannot be made pious, prayerful, or live consistent christians by passing resolutions at church meet- ings any more than hy act of parliament. "As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be," unless the grace of God reigns in the heart religious efforts and christian duties will simi)ly be perfunctionary and spasmodic. FIUST lUPTIST CHURCH. 23 Love for Cluist and o'oedieiiue to His coiniiiaiKls, deeply routed ill the he:irt, will result i:i persevcraiics and constancy when all else fail. 8iich was found to l)e the case in this cluucli, and to such an extent at this period w.e iiiid that practically a new organiza- tion took place in the l)e,i;inning of the year iS4S, when a new covenant was entered into and only those pledging themselves to faithfully adhere to its ])r()\ isions were in\itt d ur permitted to sul)sci"ii)e to it. The pi'ovision of the articles and covenant were such as the chui'ch hy their experience had x]\vn attained to and to which the following names were sul)sci'il)ed at this meeting, the 27th of January, l<'^-!(*^, > iz: — A. ihutch, Deacon, Daniel Bui'tch, J. Hatch, R. Martin, II. Dil>l)le, U. iUake, (Dea- con), J. ?.lcColl, C. Eaguley,Ann Jacki.uiiijElizabetli Thompson, John McColl, N. Bartley, I). Thompson, Jane Durtch, E. Landon, E. Tiaycock, Janet Hay, JMary Mitchell, Mary Ilirnes, James Gi 'Id, Laura l^urtch, Hannah Blake, ^F, A. >Iatch, C C Carryer. By the end or the year the number reached thirty — 28 of the former members, one by baptism and one by letter. Mr. Landon again tendered his resignation in January, ISt'J, but was induced to renuiin. The church appears to have had severe struggles at this period. The mattei' of hnance was ^re- l^eatedly up for discussion. In Septembei* of that year we tiiid a series of resolutions and urgent appeals to tiie little band for help, and at the same time urging jMr. Landon to remain as theii" p;istor. From the last date to the 4th of May, 1 SI], there is no record; but at this meeting we learn that Messrs. Vv'int('rbotham, A. Burtcli and James Martin were appointed a committee "to draft a letter of application and an epitome of our principles, prepar- atoiy to their being presented to the Grand Uiver Association to be laid before the next church meeting." (►^gd.) James Martin, assistant church clerk. Thus the new pastor, Elder Winterbotham, and the new clerk, John Hatch, and assistant clerk James Martin, are II 24 THE HISTORY OF THE suddenly introduced without a record of how or when, but the fact was ah'eady being felt and the influence of the sturdy old Baptist pastor is manifest in the letter prepared and presented for the church's adoption at a meeting held May 31st, 1851. It would be interesting to copy the Vvjiole document but a few points of information must surKce. (1) "We hold the sacred Scriptures to be the only rule of fiiith and practice." (2) AVe only commune in the Lord's supper with those who have been immersed in the divine name, who give evidence of re- genei'ation by walking in newness of life. VVe require unanim- ity in receiving persons to fellowship and in all acts uf church discipline, such as public rebuke and exclusion. {-]) We have enjoyed peace and steady progress since the reoi'ganization of the church on regular JJaptist principles on the 2nd day of January, IS-iS. Our number now is sixty-six." (4) "We have a Sabbath school, Bible class and auxilliary missionary society for the benetit of the inhabitants of the town." This lengthy document was dated 31st of Ma}^, 1851, and the following dele- gates appointed to present it to the "Grand River Association," viz: Pastor AVinterbotham, Deacons Burtch and i^lake and Brethren J. Martin, L. Green, J. Platch, II. Kipp, J. Goble, J. Hoile, K. H. Burtch and M. Green with power to withold the letter should circumstances dictate." It seems that such circumstances did arise, for we tind that a committee v/as appointed by the association to meet a committee from the church to discuss some vital (juestion at issue. The committee appointed by tlie church at a subsequent meet- ing was the Pastoi-, Deacon Goble, Hatch, Martin and Hoile, and it was decided to hold a public meeting in the evening. Aug. 31st, 1851, it was resoh^ed "That the printed circular from Toronto purporting to call a meeting {it Hamilton on the tirst Wednesday in October next, in support of the course of religious equality be approved, and Mr. Winterbotham return an answer accordingly. At a church meeting held on the 4th of October, 1851, it was moved by Brother McColI, seconded by Brother Blake, "That FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 25 the statement of the stand taken by the cliiirch, in reference to the matters at issue between it and the association, be pubUshed in The Observer. A lengthy document is here inserted in the minutes, wliich sets fortli the discussion and decision of the committee of the association, which decided, by three to two, against the recep- tion of the church into the association. Tlie only objection seems to be that the association held that the ordinances of the church should only be administered, in any case, by one who had been regularly ordained, by other ministers also regularly ordained. The church held that this rule, while desirable, w-is not always practicable ; and decided that no amended applica- tion should be made to the association. Anion*' the additions mentioned heie are those of Mr. and Mrs. Vincent,dismissed by letter from the Peterliorough Church. Resolutions were passed to raise the pastor's salary $50 for the ensuing year — but no mention is made of the total sum. (2). To take up subscriptions to liquidate the debt incurred for incidental expenses. {^). To take steps to erect a shed for pro- tecting the horses. The year 1852 began with the purchase of a new pulpit Bil)le from George Barnef'', at the price cf 22s Gd. At the February meeting Robert and Mary Barbour were admitted, on condition "that they receive their letters from Montreal." William Wijittr and wife and daughter Mary were received by letter from the Pickering Church. At the follow- ing ino'ithly meeting it was : Resolved, "That Bro. W. 'Winter sustai:i his former office, and be acknoM'ledged as a deac(>n of this ciiurch." On July 31st Mr. Winterbotham was jiutiiorised to obtain a minister, during the ensuing month, to preu'-h a sermon and take up a collection for the benefit of the colored church in the Town of Woodstock." That Bro. H. Ford be appointed to the Burford station, to preach as often as convenient. That ]Mr, Winterbotham be re- quested to continue the pastoral charge another year, from the 20th of September. < :a| ■ ^jyj^j^ ■ ,.i«i..^-,rtiKt:l^mAa.a^. 26 THE HISTORY OF THE li' Oil the 28tli day of August the following very suggestive resolution was passed : Resolved, "That whereas the appearance of the sm^ill inter- est the government is taking in the all important (iuej;tions of the Clergy Reserves and religious state endowments, we consider it our duty, at the present juncture, to call the attention of parliament to the same by petition ; and we do hereby authorize our Pastor and Deacons to make out and sign tlie same in our behalf, as a church, and foi'ward it without delay." January 'iOtli, 1S53, E. Topping was received })y letter, Mrs. Topping by profession, and R. \V. Sawtell as a ciindidate for baptism — on the following day. The next few meetings wit- nessed large accessions l)y baptism and profession, and the first indication of preparation for erecting a new church wjis at the May meeting, when a "site committee" was appointed, consist- ing of the trustees and 1 eacon Winter " This, also, is the first niention of trustees, and the names are not si'iven Julv 30th we lind tiie followini;' resolution recorded : Resolved, That we receive Mi". WinterbothanTs j-esigriiition witji regret on our part, and sorrowful sympathy for such a step on his ])art," etc, it is gathered fi'om the lengthy resolution that some atiiiction of great sadness had Ijeen experienced, which necessitated his removal, and which the church vei'v much re- •••I'etted. A committee consisting of Mv. Landon, De;icons Winter, (roble, Hui'tch and Mai'tin, were named to look for a successor to Mr. Wintei'ljotham. "Messrs. WInteibolham, Topping and Winter to be delegates to the convention, to Ije held at Burl'oid <;n tlie first of Septem- l)ei' ; ajid a prayer meeting be held for said purpose." The following re^;oiutions were passed at the next few meet- ings in the yeai-, viz.: "That we pay each pi'eachei- for a Sab- l>ath sermon one pound"; "That Messrs. Landon, Topping, Bui'tcii, Winter and Martin bo a connnittee to supply the pul- pit till we get a pastor " ; " That C. C. Cai'iyer be clerk of the i. FIRST BAPTIST CHUUCII. 27 pecuniary affaiis of the church " ; "That this church consider it necessary that steps be forthwith taken to erect a new chapel for pubUc worsiiip." The committee appointed to procure phins and carry on tliis work was composed as follows : — -W. H. Lan- don, Deacons Winter, Hatch and Martin, and J. McColl, C. C, Can-yer and R. Barbour. At the tirst meeting held in 1854, January lOtli, the deter- mination to build was confirmed and a committee appointed to jDrocure subscriptions ; " that they be paid in four instalments; and when £700 shall have been su1)scribed, the committee to proceed with the erection of the building." A heading for the list was drawn up and then appro^'ed. Mr. Landon was authorised, at the next church meeting, to write to Elder Dempsey at fSt. Andrews, with a view to a call to him as pastor. At this meeting tlie site committee reported that they had examined several lots and preferred the one on the corner of Beale and Adelaide streets: ; but then it was not in the market. They would not recommend any less than 75 feet frontage, and that a corner lot, also. March 25th it was resolved to appropriate the communion collections to a poor fund. There seems to have been a ijuestion as to removal from the old site on Chapel street, and it was decided to meet on the 5th of April and ballot for a decision. Mrs. Laiidon and Mrs. H. T. Burtch were appointed scrutineers, and the ballot was a tie. Tt w^as decided, after a season of prayer, to cast lots for the tinal decision ; when it resulted in fa\'or of removal, and thus a vexed question was satisfactorily settled. Elder Topping and R. II. Burtch were added to the site com- mittee. '))| V ' ■ i«mT"*^ •^^-- - -''^-'''™™™^'™^""'^-**""^^ 28 THE HISTORY o£ THE CHAPTER V. Call to Rev. J. Cooper — Denominational Oikjans — Erection of A New Church— Sale of the Old — Another Effort to Enter THE association — BAPTIST ACADEMY — CANADIAN LiTERARY IN- STITUTE — Organization. 11 Api'il 16 it was moved by Deacon Winter, seconded by R. W. :Sawtell : " That Rev. James Cooper be invited to take the pastoral charge of this church ; that the salary be one hundred pounds per annum ; that a subscription list be circulated forthwith." At the same meeting Mr. Winter was authorised to attend Hatch's sale of hjts ; but not bid more than eight and one half dollars per foot, for a suitable site tor the church. Peter and Duncan Campbell were received for baptism, and William Nasmyth and Mrs. Morley by letter ; Arthur Miller and George Duncan hy baptism, and others during the summer of 1854 ; and at the Novem})er meeting Deacon Winter and wife, R. W. Sawbell and wife, received letters to unite with the Brantford Church. A reference might be permitted here, in regard to establish- ing a denominational paper : For a long time there had not been a medium of connnunication Vjy a paper of its own. "The Observer" and others had ceased to exist. Mr. Winter had laid the matter to heart, and some time previously pledged himself privately, " that the first sum of considerable importance which came to him in any business transaction he would devote to starting a denominational paper." After settling in East Zorra two years before, he thought he would have an interest in Woodstock, and purchased a lot from Deacon Burtch for $300 (and subsequently many others, at FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 2^ i I boom pj'ices, caused by the Crimean war, and tlie building of the G. W II ) and, not long after, the Woodstock and Lake Erie R. R. Co. gave him about $4,000 for the same ; thus his request was granted, and he immediately proceeded to carry out his vow. The result was the establishment of "The Christian Messenger" in Brantford — with Rev. T. L. Davidson as editor and R. W. Sawtell sub-editor and office manager, the hrst copy of which was printed the 1st of October, 1854. "The Messenger" was subsequently sold to Dr. Fyfe, renamed "The Canadian Baptist," and is still the organ of the denomina- tion. As this paper has wielded such an influence, and par- ticularly in the educational policy with which this church, through the location of the college here, has been so interested, this digression will not be deemed out of place. November 25th, 1854, Deacon Blake resigned the trusteeship and Elder Topping was appointed in his place. January 5th, 1855, "The Home Missionary Society of Can- ada " is first mentioned, and it: was decided to take up a collec- tion in its favor. George Duncan preached his first sermon before the church and was granted a license to preach. He soon became well known as such, and was called to the pastorate of the Hamilton Church ; but died soon thereafter, quite young, and greatly lamented. May 26th it was decided, by the casting vote of the pastor, not to make application for admission into the association, or send delegates thereto. At the following meeting in June, it was moved by W. H. Landon, seconded by Deacon A. Burtch, and resolved. That the following clause be inserted in the church deed : " Holding and teaching the doctrines generally held by evangelical churches, and also the baptism of adult believers, in the name of the Holy Trinity, as the only Christian baptism in water, and the administration of the ordinance of the Lord's Supper to persons who have been so baptised only." September 29th the higher education question is first intro- duced, and a resolution passed authorising Messrs. Cooper, Topping, Burtch and Martin " to examine the constition of 30 THE HISTORY OF THE J I: Maclay College, and point out those articles necessary tu Ije amended.'' November 24th the following resolutions were passed : 1. "That Elder Cooper's travelling expenses to St. Cath- arines, to attend the missionary meeting held there the last of the month, be paid." 2. "Tliatthe now ehapel be opened at Cliristmas and Sab- bath previous." Several committees were appointed for various purposes in connection with said dedication. December 29, 1855, another long list of resolutions were passed : " That the seats be rented." (2). "Tliat do.')r keepers sliow strangers to any vacant seats after the unlet ones are filled." (3). "That the price of the pews be £5, £1, .-£3 and X2 and the price of a single sitting one-fourth the ]>rice of a whole seat.'' (4). "The committee to take charge of this work." (5). "Tliat tlie trustees be empowered to insure the chapel for £1,500." (G). "Tlijit the report of the finances of the l)uilding com- mittee be laid before next church meetini^." (7). "That (xeorgo Duncan have a letter of i The report is too long to be repeated here, hut the purport is: That the delegates were questioned very closely on the subject of communion and the practice of the church ; and in their answers the delegates disagreed. A. Miller claimed " the priv- ilege of conmiuning when and with whom he might choose." This led to a very sharp discussion and the result v>'os that the church was not admitted into the association ; but it was re- commended that the jipplication be laid over till the next asso- ciation, and that the church be respectfully requested to call a^ council to discuss the whole question, and formally recognize it, in the meantime, 5. " That tliis clmrch does not approve of its members com- muning with churches of other denominations," 6. " That Bro, Miller's confession be accepted as satisfactory." The first reference to the "Baptist Academy" being likely to be located here, appears in the minutes of the church meeting held February 28, 1857, when it was resolved, "1'hat we, as a Close Communion Baptist church, consider ourselves as part and parcel of, and in communion with, the Regular Baptists of this PrG>-ince." At the same meeting it was decided to discontinue the seat renting system, and adopt the voluntary subscription plan — but to allot the seats to subscribers. April 25 it was resolved, "That we have always, as a church, considered it unscriptural for any meml^er to administer the ordinance of Baptism, or the Lord's Supper, except those wdio have been ordained to the wi rk of the ministry ; and anyone doing so is liable to church discipline." May 10th, 1857, after the morning service the members w^ere requested to remain, to consider the question of calling a coun- cil of recognition, Mr. Topping reported that the committee appointed to solicit subscriptions to the fund for the erection of the Literary Institute, "found it difficult to prevail, on account of the position of tlie Woodstock Church, it being unconnected with the associatir,n as a Regular Baptist Church. He there- fore moved, seconded l)y Deacon Burtch, " That a council be FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 33 called. It was moved in amendment by Eldei* Landon,seconded by A. Miller, " That a meeting be held on the following Tues- day to decide the mattei*." The amendment carried. The meeting was held, as per adjournment, when it was unanimously decided to call a council, and the following were appointed delegates, viz. : Revs. J. Cooper, E. Topping, and Dea- cons Burtch and Hatch. If a council of recognition was convened here there is no minute of such. May 30, 1837, it was resolved, "That this church make appli- cation to the " Grand River Association South " for admission, and that Messrs. Cooper, Topping, Burtch, Hatch and Sawtell be our delegates to the same." June *i6, 1857 The delegates to the asso(uation, which was held at Harris street, reported that " this church was cordially and unanimously admitted into the association." At this meeting a resolution was passed condemning the action of one of our unordained members, he having administered the ordinance of baptism, and war-ned not to do so again. Sept 6th. The church discussed the question of siiiging; after which " Mrs. Landon was appointed to take the lead of the female department," and " R. H. Burtch and W. Nasmyth the male department, with power to add to their number." This is the lirst official appointment of this nature referred to. Another reference of still greater importance to this church, and to the whole denominatioii, is this: "That as Mr. Fyfe, of Toronto, has leave of absence, and as he has consented to stay throughout the week, be it therefore — "Resolved that a series of meetings be held in the basement every evening, at half-past seven o'clock, and that brethren sustain such meetings by their presence and prayei"s.'' From this time forward the question of Baptist ministerial education became so closely connected with thiw church, that the origin of the movement should find a place here. The denomi- nation had established Montreal college, and, for want of funds, and a general sympathy in its management, it had died. A c I I Il" uuMMMiKhii 34 THE HISTORY OF THE ill t< project had also been started to establish what was to be called Maclay college, and that never found even a commencement. The establishment of " The Christian Messenger" gave oppor- tunity for the expression of matters of denominational interest, and the question oi education was one of the most prominent, and frequently referred to. In " The Messenger " of December 13th, 1855, a " Proposal," over the signature of "F" — written, no doubt, by Dr. Fyfe — and from which the project of an aca- demy, such as the Woodstock school became, was advocated. The agitation was continued, through that medium and other- wise, until it was finally adopted. It was decided by the preliminary committee that the location should not be east of St. Catharines or west of London, and the place which made the best ofter in regard to the erection of buildings should be chosen. The only places which tendered were: Ft>!ithill, Brantford and Woodstock. The latter offerod more than twice at much as Brantford, guaranteeing $16,000, including the value of the site, and Woodstock was chosen. The first meeting of subscribers was held in the church on the 18th of March, 1857. William Winter was elected chairman, and R. W. Sawtell, secretary. A constitution and by-law previously prepared were discussed and adopted. Tlie following were the first trustees, viz: A. Burtch, E. Topping, J. Hatch, A. Carroll, J. Kintrea, J. Charles, W. Winter, T. L. Davidson, R. A. Fyfe, H. J. Barber, W. Wilkin- son, O. Mabee, 11. Kilborn, R. Baker, E. V. Bodwell. W. Winter was elected president, J. Hatch vice-president, James Kintrea treasurer, and E. V. Bodwell secretary. On the 23rd of June the corner stone of the first building was laid. Deacon Burtch had the honor of that duty. Addresses were made by W. Winter, Revs. R. A. Fyfe, T. L. Davidson and W. Wilkinson. E. V. Bodwell, George Alexander and Rev. Dr. Ryerson, chief superintendent of education. Thus the foundation of an entei'prise was then laid which has had a direct influence on this church and a mighty power in molding and building up the denomination throughout the province, as iCi ?t ■ FIRST BAPTIHT CHURCH. 35 well as establishing and carrying on the grand missionary work in India and the Home Mission work in Canada. The pew rent system was still unsettled, for we tind that at the church meeting held 27th of November a resolution appoint- ing R. W. Sawtell, F. Scotield and Peter Campbell, a committee *'to appraise and regulate the seat rents, and report at our anniversary," "That we have anniversary services. That Pastor Cooper and E. Topping be a committee to invite speakers, and tlie ladies have the sole power to arrange the festival and appoint their own committees." No further mention of the ''festival'' is made ; l)ut it took place, was well attended and successful. On the 27th of December Elder Cooper's heart was made glad by the acceptance of his son, (xeorge, as a tit candidate for baptism. Morris Dawes was also received. January 3rd, 1858, Deacon Burtch and Brother Shanks were appointed to visit members absenting themselves from the communion and other services. The same question of delinquency was still before the church; but it is noticed that it is shifted from " the covenant meeting " to the ".communion service '' — showing that the meetings, for so many years considered the all-important, now became only secondary. At this same meeting the question of " alteration in our church meetings and ordinance day was up for discussion and postponed to next regular meeting. " Messrs. Laycock, Nasmyth, Carryer and Luck were appointed a committee "to devise means to refund money advanced by the treasurer." On the 30th of January it was resolved, " That the monthly church meetings be held on the Fi'iday previous to the first Sabbath of every month, at 2.30 p. m., and that all pecuniary matters be taken up at the close of the religious exercises " ; "That a donation visit be made to Mr. Cooper, at his own house, on Monday, the 8th of February." as !,., J>- 36 THE HISTORY OF THK CHAPTER VT. Financial Pressure — Finance Committee Ari'oiNTEo— Election OF Deacons— The Chapel on Fire — Question of Privilege — Opening OF THE C. L. I, Dr. Fyfe Principal — Prince of Wales' Visit — Burninis of the Institute. I>> The question of finances was a pt'essing one at this period. The collapse after the Crimean war was severely felt, and as a consequence church finances suffered also. At the March meet- ing the Finance committee reported as follows: "From ladies association $50, building fund $16, pastor's subscripton $8, in- cidental $2, and as nothing farther at present can be collected from the building list that a nuinl>er oi the members sign a note for £50 to relieve present needs,' itc. The report which is long and relates to the diftioulties under which they had labored, and suggesting that it was the duty of every one to do rdl they could, was adopted. Brother and Sister Pavey requested letters of dismission to join the Free Will Baptist church organized in their neighbor- hood, which was granted under the circumstances referred to. April 2nd, 1858, a committee reported on the continued absence and removal of a number of members and recommended dropping their names frcmi the church roll. Report adopted. W. Nasmyth, H. T. Burtch and D. Campbell were appointed to assist tlie deacons collect for church funds. W. Nasmyth appointed financial secretary in the room of C. C. Carryer, resigned. April 30th, Rev. George Silver, wife and mother, were received by letter from the Peekskill Bpptist church. United States, and a number of candidates for baptism. The trustees were authorized to borrow from the Trust and Loan Company, by mortgage on the church property. 1 1 , ! FIKST BAPTIST CHURCH. X June 4tli, Elders Cooper and Topping, brethren A. Burtcb, J. Hatch, R H. Burtch and J. Peddie were elected delegates to the Grand River Association South. July 2nd, the same delegates were appointed to sit in council with the church in Ingersoll which sat last spring, viz: Revs. J. Cooper, E. Topping and Deacon Burtch, with Rev. G. Silver .lidded. "That Mrs. Burtch, Silver, Lamport and Hatch be d com- mittee of ladies to collect subscription to make up the deficit in in the past(n''s salary. "That D. Campbell circulate a list to raise money to pay for attending and cleaning the chapel. This was the continual experience, little money moving and a severe trial to get enough to pay current expenses. Not a meet- ing passing free from financial embarrassments. November 5th, it Avas resolved "That those absent members written to and who have not answered be dropped from our books as members." "That R. H. Burtch, il. T. Burtch and 8. Pocock be a com- mittee to erect a shed — if it can be accomplished with little or no expense." "That the church meetings be changed from Friday afternoon to Saturday afternoon for religious exercises only, and special meetings for business called when needed.'' January 13th, 18.59, it Avas resolved (1) "That Elder Cooper and Bro. Midgley be our delegates to the Nissouri c(juncil to or- ganize a church in the Vining settlement." (2) "That Brethren Topping, Nasmyth, Lamport and Martin be appointed to draw out a report of the best mode of liquidating our debts." (3). "That Brethren Nasmyth and Sawtell be committee to arrange for l)etter church music, with power to add to their number." Messrs. Topping, Blake and Hatch were appointed to collect for the missionary convention. The church seems to have been passing through financial .ii-'i^joasa.'! I i't 38 THE HISTORY OF THE ^ .)■ troubles at this time. All manner of means and modes were adopted to collect funds, but no one seems to have been able. Mr. Cooper's little salary was in arrears to the amount of 8340, and he was taking all kinds of produce in pay. It was only by the utmost economy that he was enabled to maintain his family and give them an education. The hardness of the times gave rise to the appointment of a financial committee. We find that on February 17th, 1859, the auditors report was received and adopted ; that the report of the financial committee be adopted and, brethren Hatch, Topping, Lamport and J. Muir appointed to carry out its suggestions. "That a social tea meeting be held in the basement on the even- ing of the second Thursday in March, and a fre^-will oftering be taken to assist in paying off the $260 arrears due the pastor. That Mrs. Burtch and Mrs. Lamport be a committee to make arrangements for said social." Monday ev^ening, February 21st, an adjourned church meeting was held for the purpose of discussing the question of election of deacons and deciding the method. It was finally agreed that the pastor preach a special sermon referring to the qualifications required in the office of Deacon. After the service open nom- inations be made, and two weeks thereafter elected by ballot." On Sabbath, March 6th, after communion the following were nominated: H. Lamport, F. Scofield, T. Clifford, E. Topping, C. C. Carryer, R. W. Sawtell, G. Luck. R. W. Sawtell was appointed secretary of the social commit- tee, and a committee of four brethren "to receive and value the gifts." An opportunity was given to those who did not wish to serve as deacon if elected to decline, when R. W. Sawtell, F. Schofield and G, Luck asked to be allowed to retire, which was granted. On March 20th the meeting \/as held to decide by ballot the choice for dericons, when it was resolved "That as Bro. Topping had already been a Deacon of his church and ordained thereto that he be recijgnised by a vote of this church as one of its Deacons.— Carried. C. C. Carryer and T. Cliffo.id refused to be FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 39 balloted for and only H. Lamport was left and he was declared elected. April 13th the trustees were instructed to reconvey the Bay-st. lot back to the Hatch estate, if requested nnd found necessaiy. May 15th Messrs. Cooper, Burtch, Topping, Sawtell and Midgley were appointed delegates to the association. A resolution was passed requesting W. M. Mills to delay re- moving the dead from the old grave yard,^till the trustees had notified all the friends of such removal. W. Xasmyth's resignation as leader of the singing was ac- cepted, and R. H. Burtch, J. Martin and the pastor appointed to arrange for a leader. July 14th E. Topping nnd A. Burtch were appointed a com- mittee to visit the Burford and Blenheim friends and collect funds for the pastor's salary. That the discussion on the pastor's salary be adjourned to a special meeting, when all the friends of the congregation shall be invited to attend. That Pastor Coop- er SLiid Elder Topping visit several members wlio have long al)- sented themselves from ommunion and fellowship of the church. A special meetjng was held July 21st when, on motion of W. J. Copp, one large committee was appointed for the town, and a smaller one for the county, to canvass for subscriptions, " to be paid quarterly, to make up deficiencies in tlie pastor's salary." Delegates were appointed, September Sth, to attend a council at Springford, to ordain Mr. INFudge to the work of the ministry. It appears from the record that a number, whose names are g'ven, had absented themselves from church privileges for some time, and at this meeting asked for letters of dismission on the ground that some of the members " were destitute of Christian character" ; and vv ithout making specific charges. After fully discussing the matter it was Resolved, " That it would be inconsis ^it with church order to grant letters undei* such circumstances. If the cliarges were true, our letters would l)e valueless ; and if untrue, they greatly err in asking letters on a talse foundation. Meanthne we drop their names from the church roll." H 40 THE HISTORY OF THE a long l> November 10th, lh'59, a committee, whicli had for period been negotiating a settlement witli 3Ir. Mills in regard to the old burying ground, reported at this meeting that no ar- rangement could be come to, hence they would recommend that they advertise in The Sentinel, notifying all parties having dead buried therein to remove the same by the 1st of Deceml)er, and that Deacons Burtch and Lamport be a committee to assist such parties."' Sabbath day, January 1st, 18G0, application was made by Brother and Sister Favey, by letter, to unite with thif; church ; •also their daughter Belinda, all from East Zorra Church. On the following Sabbath, January 8th, this record appears :, " In the time of worship our chapel took tire, and after consid- erable exertion by all the people, the flames were extinguished. The following committee was then and there appointed to see the damages repaired, viz : Deacon Hatch, E. Topping, W. J. Copp, H. T. Burtch and Deacon Buri^ch. The tire originated in the floor, from overheating, it being a very cold day ; and was extinguished hirgely with snow, carried in by those present, and the damages were not extensive. February 14th a special meeting was held for the purpose of discussing a question of privilege. It appejirs that one of the deacons (Lamport) had, in his zeal, invited Elder George Wilson, then a noted evangelist, to come and carry on special services. He, having accepted the invitation, took full possession of the work and so thoroughly ignored the pastor, and introduced methods which Mi*. Cooper and many of the brethren could not endorse ; hence this meeting was called to correct the error. E. Topping was appointed chairman, and R. W. Sawtell secre- tary. Mr. Cooper Mas called upon for a statement of the case ; after which Deacon Lamport said that if he had done wrong he was sorry for it, as he intended neither wrong or insult to anyone. Elder Wilson, being present, explained his position, and was fully exonerated from blame. On Motion of R. W. Sawtell, seconded by Bro. Carryer, the I m FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 41 , the following resolution was passed : " That this church discounte nances and condemns any effort of, or influence used, by any member or > members to introduce any minister or layman with a view to assist or supercede the efforts of the pastor of this church, for the time being, without the concurrence of the pas- tor and church." A vote of sympathy with the pastor, and entire confidence in his labors, was passed and tendered to Elder Cooper. April 5th many old troubles were brought up and discussed: 1. In reference to settling with Mr. Mills about the grave yard. "2. Refusing letters of dism^'ssion to embarrassed debtors. 3. Financial shortage. 4. Appointing a committee to classify, and present at next meeting a list of non-members. 6. That any member absenting himself or he/self from ccmimunion on three consecutive Sabbaths, l)e visited and be liable to church discipline, if without valid excuse. It is evident f^mi the minutes of the meetings lield in thi.s particular period of the^ church's history that the question of close communion was bearing heavily on many of the formerly active members. While very few,, practised comnmning with Pedo-Baptist churches, they couTd not brook the dictation and withdrew, largely, from active work in the church. Many names were dropped, and some few were excluded ; thus to en- sure the fullest concuri-ence to the practice of a " Regular Bap- tist Church." Many ot y'lch. have since returned and became both active and consistent members. May 24th, 1860, the pastor, E. Topping, and J. ^Martin were appointed tg write the circular letter, Messrs. Cooper,Topping, Bunch, Lamport and George Cooper were appointed delegates U: the association, with power to invite it to meet lu re in 18()1. Tlii'' was an eventful year to the Baptists of Ontario and es- pecialiy to the Woodstock church. Since the meeting held on the 18th of March, 1857, the Canadian Literary Institute had been erected, and, by toils and sacritices — which would require a volume to relate — the building had been equipped, and made ready for opening, Dr. Fyfe chosen principal, with Rev. W. ^mmmm mmmmm mnmm ill ii|* llil i! mil' 42 THE HISTORY OF THE 8tewart, Mr. Hankinson, Miss Brighain and Miss Vining, teachers. This was a small staff and the salaries promised were equally small ; but they entered upon the work with loving hearts and active brains. The coming to this town of a band of teachers and an indefinite number of students, many of whom had and would devote their talents to God's service, meant new ideas and new work for the church. One of the first things Dr. Fyfe was called upon to do was to read an address, from the trustees of the Institute, to the Prince of Wales, who was then making a tour on this continent, and who was entertained on Cottle's Grove. Many addresses were read ; and probably the most attractive was the one read by Mr. Fyfe. He was then one of the handsomest of men, and called forth the remark from the Prince : that " he was the finest specimen of man hi ^•^'^ met." The school opened in J had two sessions that fall, and closed in December with incre.ising prospects for the new year — • 1861 ; but, on the night preceding its opening, the whole struc- tuF'e was laid in ruins by fire. It is not the intention of this sketch to embrace that of the college also, but the interests of the church have been so involved with the college that we can- not ignore some of its more important events, and this is one of them. The blotting out of the school would naturally vithdraw life, numbers and activity from the church ; but its rebuilding would mean additional financial burdens. The latter prevailed, but was cheerfully accepted, and resulted in greater prosperity, both in educational work and church extension. Thus an apparent- ly disastrous fire, in the providence of God, united the denomi- nation in sympathy and support in the cause of higher and min- isterial education. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 43 CHAPTER VIT. Stringent Times Still — Trouble Satisfactorily Settled — Elder Cooper's Resignation Not Acceptable — Subsequently Ac- cepted — Dr. Fyfe and Rev. W.Stewart Supply the Pulpit — Call to Rev. W. H. Jones — Installation Services. All through the yen.r 1860 various means were suggested and some schemes adopted to pay pressing debts. In November Mr. Cooper's salary was raised " to the original $500.*' R. H. Burtch resigned the leadership of the choir, and Mr. Zimmer- man was appointed in his place. Mr. Topping resigned his posi- tion as trustee, and Brother Pavey was appointed in his place. In December W. B. Hankinson, W. J. Copp, R. Cull and wife and others were baptized, and some received by letter. A successful anniversary was held, the proceeds of wdiich were used to pay interest on the church site. Thus the old year ended and the new year began, and now were added the additional burdens of the Institute. On the 1st day of January a special meeting was held to devise ways and means ; and one of the resolutions adopted was a twenty- iive-cent plan for the debts of the Institute, and a committee of ladies to carry it out. J. R. Cook and wife were recei"^ed by letter from St. Cath- arines. James Martin resigned as clerk, treasurer and deacon, and E. Topping was appointed clerk pro tem ; C. C. Carryer, treasurer. The committee appointed to raise money to pay off the debt upon the chapel reported that they only required one hundred and twenty five dollars more to complete the amount and a special efiort was to be made to tinish the whole sum. At a subsequent meeting in March it is reported that the full amount had been subscribed. ,«»»- i 44 THE HISTORY OF THE :i ■ ii. # !«)> At the April meeting James Cox was appointed church clerk and C. C. Carryer, treasurer. The 28th of May the committee appointed to visit Mr. Luck reported that he had joined the Plymouth brethren, whereupon it was resolved "that the hand of fellowship be withdrawn from him for dereliction of duty and non attendance."' The Pastor, Deacons Burtch and Hatch and brethjen Topping and Pavey, were appointed delegates to the association to be held in the Woodstock church. Messrs. Topping and Clifford were appointed to sit in council to recognize the Wellesly chu.>?h. June 28th, Jno. R. Cook and W. Pavey were appointed deacons. It is but right to refer here to a matter that had occupied the attention of the church for many months. Miss Crosbie had come to Woodstock under expectation of being appointed lady principal of the Institute, but was not elected to that position. She had been permitted to commune with the church but in her disappointment in failiiig to be appointed had said some unjust things about the past(:>r. Mr, Cooper asked for an investigation which was held and full^ exonerated him. Mr. Martin, who had in the meantime married Miss Crosbie, defended her case, and took such a violent part against tlie pastor and olficers of the church that after every attempt to reconcile him was made without avail : it was moved by Bro. Topping, seconded by Bro. Evans, and resolved "That the church regrets that Bro. Martin persists in his c^roundless charges against the pastor, and that in accepting his resignation, they are, by his own action, shut up to the necessity of withdrawing from him the hand of fellowship. November 14th, the Pastor and E. Topping were appointed delegates to attend at the Horton street church, London, to or- dain Benjamin Miller, and the expenses of said delegates to be paid by this church unless paid by the London church. At the first communion Sabbath in January, 1862, Mr. and Mrs. Fyfe asked permission to commune with the church for a time without nniting. - I FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 45 At the same time Elder Cooper stated that he liad heard of some dissatisfaction in regard to himself, and he wished to state that he was prepared to resign if the church thought it ])est. January 16th, the committee appointed U> raise money to pay arrears of the pastor's salary, gave a very discouraging re- port and asked for another month's time. It was also decided to hold a social to assist the committee in their efforts — the arrears due the pastor November 1st last being $241.50. It was also decided to hold a special meeting to dis- cuss the proposed resignation of the Pastor. John K. Cook was appointed leader of the choir. H. Burtch having intimated that he did not consider himself the leader and "if the parties composing said choir do not conduct them- selves in a becoming manner after being spokeji to that Bro,* Cook expel them from the choir under sanctie re- stored to membership — granted. "That the motion foi die calling of stated monthly church meetings be rescinded, and be called liereafter by the pastt)r. That a social be held on Thurs- day, 30tli instant, the proceeds to be devoted to renovating the pulpit and providing a new Bil)le and hymn book. That we present those now used to the colored brethren for use in their chapel." W. J. Copp and wife and W. Burtch received letters of dismission. July 27 the pastor. Dr. Fyfe, Deacons Pavey and Cook were delegated to attend the ordination of R. B. Montgomery, to be held at the Scotland Church. August 17th the former negotiations for a site for a cemeteiy having failed, a committee was appointed " to find another site, with the same powers as the foi'mei- committee. That the forty dollars expenses, incurred by the pastor for removal from Port Hope, be paid." November 16th E. Topping was elected trustee in place of Mr. Landon, who had removed from town. Deacon Pavey reported, on the 2Gth January, 1865, that there was "a want of harmony " in the Board of Deacons and that, consequently, lie would resign. A committee was ap- pointed to enquire into the matter, and the result was that a new election of deacons took place. Dr. Fyfe preached a ser- mon, setting forth the duties and privileges of the oJhce ; after which W. Pavey, J. Cox, T. G. Clifford and R. Cull were elected deacons. A. Burtch was appointed an honor^'ry deacon. April 4th A. E. Willis was appointed sext .c at the rate of 81 per week. The trustees weie asked to attend to the repairs of the church, and also the ventilation of the same. D » ii 1; ■z^mmmsBmsami 50 THE HISTORY OF THE .luMc; \\i\\ liio. J. Tj. C.implK'II was ^M "in ted a license to exercise his 'fi'if*'!^ !iii(! to (uiahle liiin to enter as a theological student, and in nH'.r'ivc; iiiinistilgrim in the wilderness. The Canadian Literary In- stitute, as well as the church, may be said to owe its continued existence to his sacrificial love ; for when in the deep waters of tinancial distress, he mortaged liis own home to rescue it from bankruptcy. What more need be said ? An interesting volume might l)e written in commemoration of the life of this faithful servant of FIRST UAHTIST CIIURril. ni tlie Lord, and frieiul <>i liumanity ; but this is ii;»i the time or place to do iiioro than record tht'sc facts. Ihs ni(MU()r\ is eii- slii'iiied ill our hearts and " liis works do follow him.*' .Sabbath morning, January 21, iSGG--It is her.' rci'ord,>d that "this morninuf l)ctNveon two miCi three (»'cloek, the wind blowing a hurricane, oui- chapel was burnt to th-;^ icround and nothing .saved. Had preaching in the Institute in the lii .i-ning: Sabbatli School in the Free Baptist Church, afternoon : and service in the town h}ill in the evening, liev. ]Mr. I'aidw in, of Tngersoll preached on behalf of the missionaiy convention. Mw. W. H. Jones preaching in Ingersoll at the same tini ■."' Sucli is the In'ief record of a disaster that the church couKl ill alKord and which involved more woi-k >ind greater sa'-rificc^ un the partof the ineml)ei'S. Immediate preparations were nuule foi- rel>uilhty-eight dollars. On Tuesday evening a tea meeting was held in the lecture room and the sum of $156.50 realized. A platform meeting was held in the audience room when addresses of great interest were delivered and subscriptions taken equal to the remaining debt upon the building. A vote of thanks was publicly tendered to Bro. W. Biggins for his fidelity and skill as the architect and superintendent of the building, thus saving — by adopting the system of day work instead of contracting — a large sum in its costs and also an as- surance of better work. October 24th, tlie caretaker's salary (Mr. Dawes) was increas- ed to 82 per week. It was decided to upholster the seats with crimson damask. It was also resolved "That the church do FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 55 promise to p.ay to the sinoing committee the sum of $50 for one year to aid them in procuring an organist." Tliat v/e vote to Mr. Draper the sum of 810 for his services as leader." December 18th, the following petition was presented: "That with heartfelt sorrow and love of the truth, we, the undersigned are under the necessity of entering our solemn protest against the use of instrumental music to praise God in the Sabbath services oi the church, and consider the same an unscriptural innovation, calculated to destroy the pure, spiritual worship of the blessed Lord." (Sgd.) John Muir, James Martin, W. Duncan, Elizabeth Muir and Mary Whitehead. The following resolution was passed in reply to the petitioners: "That while we respect these friends we do not see the niatter as they do and to show tliat we wish to meet their wishes as far as we can we are wiliino^ to enter upon our church minutes their protest ; of course guarding ourselves from any endorsation of its sentiments." This church has shared, to some extent, the old and deeply rooted prejudice against instrumental music. The tirst instance of trouble, in this respect, occurred in or about the year 1850. The singing was led at that time by an old settler by the name of James Merchant, assisted by R. H. and H. T. Burtch and R. W. Sawtell. Mr. Merchant could not always strike the key and he induced R. W. Sawtell to bring his flute and thus make sure. Occasionally the tune was new and difficult and be was asked to lead with the flute right throuffh which he did, to the satisfaction of very many, but a few so strongly objected to "whistling God's praise through an instrument," that the flute was silenced and a tuning fork was substituted. February 19th, 1868, a resolution was passed conferring power to the deacons to arrange and regulate the holding of all special meetings of the church. The Y. M. C. A. were granted the pi'ivilege of holding meetings in the churcii once in every two or three montlhs. Bro. J. J. Baker preached before the church at the Wednes- j 11 r ^■HB 56 THE HISTORY OF THE J < III) day evening piayer meeting and on the 25t}i of March was "granted a license to preach, good for 12 months from date." May 20th, 1868, Pastor Bates and Dr. Fyfe were appointed delegates to sit in council dt Goble's corner's with the view of recognizing a Baptist church there. Brethren Topping, Hatch, Clifford, Willis, Carryer, Bates and Fyfe were appointed delegates to the association, to be held this year at Scotland, Bro. Bates to write the circular letter. It will be remembered that at the platform meeting on the opening of the new audience room, it was announced that the debt was provided for. At the special church meeting, July 22nd, the following reso- lutions was passed: "That the deacons and treasurer be request- ed to ascertain our indebtedness and to suggest some ways and means by which this indebtedness shall be met." Thus the old story was resumed and to add to its volume, a committee was then appointed to take steps towards erecting sheds. September 16th it was resolved " That a special collection be taken up for fortugn missions the first Sabbath in October, and one for the benefit of the widows and orplians of deceased minis- ters the third Sabbath." It was further proposed to take up a special collection from church members " to meet arrears in inci- dental expenses." October 4th — Pi'evious to the communion Bro. and Sister Havens, also their son and daughter, were received by lettei* from the St. Catharines Church, and Jaljez Montgomery from Ann Arbor, Mich. On the Wednesday following it was re- solved " That this church do cordially invite the Baptist Mis- sionary Convention of Ontario to meet here next year. On the 28th of October Thomas Johnston, E. AV. Dadson and S. L. Head related their Christian experience and were received as members after baptism. Rev. C. Perin and wife, from Dor- chester, and Rev. J. Ci-awford and wife, frpointed to collect for tlie " Auxiliary Home Mission Society.'" Pastor Bates was re( guested to retire, when Dr. Fyfe was ap- pointed chairman, and resolutions were passed deciding to give the pastor a donation on Thursday evening next, ti> be held in the basement ; and committees appointed to assure success. No further mention is made in regard to this matter, but it is safe to infer that it was duly carried out. March ITch Bro. A. E. Willis asked the privilege of using the basement once a month for the purpose of holding socials to raise funds for the bene tit of the Sal)bath School — granted. Bro. and Sister Caswell received letters to unite with tl\e Pictou church, N. S. ; C. Perrin and wife to Georgetown, and Bro. Northrup to Port Burwell. ■J ii rm in' 'i 58 THE HISTORY OF THE Church meeting, May 10th — Revs. Dr. Fyfe and Dr. Craw- ford were appointed delegates to the Springford Church, to ex- amine in couiicil C. W. Haycock, and, if found advisable, ordain him to the gospel ministry. Brethren Fyfe, Pavey, Kavens, Crawford, Bates and Carryer were appointed delegates to the association, to be held at Water- ford, and the pastor and clerk prepare statistics. June 16th, 1869, S. S. Bates, Miss Martha Head, and Miss PI A. Crawford related their Christian experience before the church and were admitted for baptism and church membership. It was voted to grant 8-5 to the treasurer of the '* Red River Fund." A question was raised as to the grant of the church to A. E. Willis of the use of the basement, as an individual, when it was decided that the grant was to the young people of the church, and not to Bro. Willis. On Sabbath evening, June 20th, the pastor baptized J. I. Bates, S. S. Bates, E. A. Crawford, M. Head and E. McDermid; and on July 4th, they, with C. Braham and W. Monkman, re- ceived the hand of fellowship. m^ IW> FIHST BAPTIST CHURCH. 59 CHAPTER IX. A Great Stor.m — Baptist Convention — Designation of John Mc- Lauuin for the Mission Field — Enlargement ov the Church — Weekly Offeimni; System — Fikst Paid Organist — Jubilee Services— Re-opening — Young People's Society — Resigna- tion of Elder Bates. August IStli Brethren Fyfo, Crav^iord and Topping wore ap- pointed delegates to the St. Mary's churcli to ordain E. D. Sher- man to the ministry. At this meeting an account was presented for ghiss and glazing windows, ln*oken by the great hail storm in June last. It might be mentioned, in explanation, that the storm referred to was the most severe ever known in this town. It occurred on Sunday afternoon ; and such was its violence that iid exposed window escaped ; and thece was not glass enough in stock in Woodstock to I'cpair damages. Persons or animals exposed to the immense hailstones received great injury therefrom, and the streets were Hooded to a large extent. September 15th committees were appointed to make all neces- sary arrangements for holding the convention, " that would be creditable to church and congregation." No mention is made in the minutes ; but we have other records to show that it was one of the most enthusiastic meetings ever held by the denomination. The most interesting exercise was the designation of Bro. John McL.aurin as missionaiy-elect lor India. Two years ago Bro. Timpany was set apart at that " wonderful " meeting held in In- gersoU ; but, if possible, tlie enthusiasm at this meeting was even greater. Mr. McLauiin reported the results of his 4,000 miles travel in behalf of the missions in Ontario {uid Quel)ec, and which kindled a missionaiy zeal such as never before experi- enced ; and which afterward culminatetl in establishing a foreign i IP' •':' It ■I' !»)> €0 THE HISTORY OF THE mission of our own among the Telugus, witli Bro. McLaurin as lirst missionary. At the church meeting, November 24th, the pas'^^or's salary was raised to $700, beginning the 1st of January, 1870, and ar- rangements made for a social and donation in January. January 19th, 1870, J. E. Wells and R. H. Burtch were ap- pointed auditors. The pastor presented a letter to the church, urging the pro- priety of enlarging the building. A committee was appointed to take the matter into consideration. At the monthly meeting, 16th February, the report of the committee on enlargement of the chapel was received and dis- cussed, the committee discharged, and a new one appointed to circulate a subscription list. March 2nd Bro. S. L. Head was granted a license to preach the gospel. The building committee was authorised to proceed with the enlargement and the erection of a new fence. The trustees were also authorized to borrow $1,000 to apply on tbe payment of such improvements. Among others, receiving the hand of fellowsliip on the 6th of March, was J. \V. A. Stewart ; D. W. Kar?i was received an the 16th, by letter from Beach ville. April 24th the pastor. Dr. Fyfe, and brethren Cox and Saw- tell were delegated to sit in council in Brantford for the purpose of recognizing a 2nd Baptist Church there. The pastor l)aptized twelve the same evening. A special meeting was called on the 11th May to discuss plans and costs of improvements, but resulted in no definite action. It was agreed to give due notice and discuss the matter more fully on the 18th instant. May 18th Elder Bates was appointed to write the circular letter to the association, to be held in Springford, and Brethren J. I. Bates, W. Pavey, R. A. Fyfe, E. Topping and J. Midgley, delegates. It was resolved " That the building committee be FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. GI requested to modify the plans, so as to reduce the cost, and re- port next meeting." May 25th a report was submitted, with plans, estimated to cost $1,300, fully discussed, adopted,and the committer^ instruct- ed to proceed at once. June 15th the trustees reported that they would be obliged to dispose of three acres of the new cemetery, to meet liabilities and erect new fences — left in their hands to do as circumstances dictated. Elder Bates and Dr. Fyfe were appointed delegates to Gait,, to assist in organizing and recognizing a Baptist Church there. July 27th the l)uilding committee reported "That they could not get the improvements proposed at the cost estimated, and I'econunended that on account of putting the work so late in the fall, the matter be laid over till the following spring, asking the subscribers to honor their subscriptions then." The report of the building committee was adopted. August 17 Dr. Fyfe was delegated to attend the ordination of Bro. George 8amis at West Flamboro. October 19th Bretlu'en Crawford and Topping were appointed delegates to a council in East Zorra Church, to ordain Brother H. Bolton to the ministrv. December 4th the pastor and Bro. Cox were delegated to sit in council at Waterdown, to recognize a Baptist Church there. December 21st a resolution was passed calling a general con ference meeting of the cliurch and congregation, to be held on the second Thursday in January, 1871, to consider mattei's of interest. The meeting referred to was held, and an interesting discus- sion of church aftairs took place, resulting in the reconnnenda- tion of the adoption of the weekly offering system for the raising of general funds A committee was appointed to bring in a re- report of a plan at next meeting. January 18th, 1871, collectors were appointf'd to can^■as» for funds for the home mis-^ions. It was resolved " That the control of the singing and playing ■S !*! ii^i itf> G2 THE HISTORY OF THE npon the instrument be entirely under the direction of the church." " That R. "W. Sawtell and W. Pavcy })e the music committee for this year." The committee on the weekly offering system reported a plan, which was adopted, and R. W. SawtelJ and W. Nasmyth ap- pointed a committee to carry it out. February 1st, 1871, the music committee recommended the appointment of Miss Bell as organist, at the salary of $30 per annum — report adopted. This is the first official appointment of an organist and cannot be considered an extravagant salary. It was sufficient, however, to commit the church to the princi- pal, and is also an indication that the organ had come to stay — notwithstanding the strong prejudice of some, who, on account of this action, left the church. ]V[ay 7th the delegates to the association were the pastor, E. Topping, J. Hatch, E. ^liller, C. Herrijigton — J. E. Wells to ^v rite the circular letter. A resolution was passed to take up a collection to pay the expenses of the delegates. October 11th the question of enlargement was again discussed, and a new building committee, consisting of Brethren Sawtell, Hatch, Biggins, Nasmyth, H. T. Burtch jind F. B. Schofield ap- pointed. The canvassing committee was urged to secure promises for at least $1,500, payable 1st of Apri? md 1st November, 1872. Mr. Judd White was appointed leader of the choir. December 27th W. Nasmyth tendered his resignation of the offices of treasurer' and trustee. A resolution of appreciation of his services was passed. Dr. Fyfe, R. H. Burtcli and R. W. Sawte]] were appointed a committee to convey the thanks of the church to him. They, at the same time, presented him with a writing desk. R. W. Sawtell was then elected trustee in place of James Cox, who had resigned, and instructed to collect arrearages on lots sold in the cemetery. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 63 February 'Jlst, 1872, six members of tlie Reddick family were received by letters as members. At this meeting it was resolved "That we liold jubilee ser- vices in this church on the 22nd of April ; and that the following be a connnittee to carry out the arrangements for the saine, viz.: Messrs. Pavey, Sawtell, R.H. Burtch, Biggins, Hatch, Nasmyth, H. F. Burtch, Dr. Rowland and the pastor ; also Mrs. Hatch, Mrs. Pavey, Mrs. A. Burtch, Mrs. Sawtell, Mrs. Wells and Mrs. Carryer." March Srd the pastor and Deacon Pavey were appointed dele- gates to a council at Gait, to ordain George Wheeler if deemed advisable. No further mention ig made of the jubilee ; but other records remind us that it was an event of great interest to the church. On Sabbath, April 21, Dr. Fyfe preached an elo([uent dis- course in the forenoon, and Rev. W. Stewart — then of Bond street, Toronto — in the eveninjr. The buildinijr was crowded at each service, an fund. On Monday evening, April 22nd, a soiree was held. Tea was served from six to eight o'clock, after which the laige jlssembly was addressed by several former pastors and others. jSIr. Lan- don read an historical sketch of the early days oi the church, and exhibited a model, built with logs, of the schoolhouse where the church was organized and worshipped for many years. A committee was subsequently appointed to have the "sketch and Dr. Fyfe's sermon printed"; but it was never done. It was afterwards lodged in the college museum. The jubilee choir of the church was led by John Weeks, and the drilling, then received, placed it in frequent demand by the Y. M. C A. and other organizations for some time thereafter. R. W. Sawtell was appointed leader. May 15th Brethren R. H. Burtch, E. Miller, E. Topping, C. Bradley, W. Pavey and the pastor were appointed delegates to the association — to be held at Burgessville — the pastor to write the circul.ir letter. good collections given in aid of the building 1 f 04 THE HISTORY OF THE ■ii.' ii Dr. Fyfe, J. Crawford and E Topping were delegated to meet in council with the Burgessville Church on July 2r)th, to ordain W. D. Lowther. Tlie enlargement of the church was proceeded with immedi- ately after the jubilee services. It consisted in extending the back wall IG feet to the boundary of the lot on the north, with a v\'ing on the east and west, giving one extra exit by a door in the east and a choir gallery and door in the west wing. November 10th, 1872, a reopening of the chapel took place with Rev. A. H. Munro, of Toronto, at 11 a. m.. Rev. C. Perrin, of Georgetown, at 6.30 p. m. Appropriate addresses were given to the Sabbath school in the afternoon. On Monday evening a platform meeting was, held when ad- dresses were given by several good speakers, and the choir gave some choice renderings. Novembei- 13th, a vote of thanks was passed and tendered i' the trustees of the Institute for the use of iheir cht*pel "during the time the contractors had possession of our own place of worship.'* The trustees were requested to erect a picket fence along the east and south sides of the property. It was resolved "That the church pay pew rent in advance to commence from the present quartei'." The weekly offering system presented by the committee did not obtain favor at this time, and fell through. January lotli, 1*^73, Bro. Clifford resigned the office of deacon of the church— resiii'nation accepted. The treasurer presented his annual statement. D. W. Karn and R. W. Sawtell were appointed auditors, In order to bring the work of the Saljbath School more into touch with the church, it was resolved " That as the work of the >Sab])ath ScIkwI insti'uction is recognized as part of the church's work, and ought to be encouraged by it, we hold a S(jcial tea meeting here on Thursday, 23rd instant, for the ben' ^it > its funds."' Collectors were appointed " to procure funds for , mission- ary convention." ^ FIRST BAPTIST CIIUUCII. G;-) ad- )> did Februurv 10th C. C. Carrvt'J" wished to 1)0 I'clicved from beiiiij a liienilKT of tho tiiiancc oomniittoo, ^^llic•h was done. Bro.John Hatch was unanimously elected deacon of the church. Marcli 19th Brctliren ^lontgomery and Biggins were tluly elected d<^acons. Api'il Oth — A soi'ies of wec^kly meetings had Ikhju held by the pastor and very large numbers '• bi'ought to the Light," and pre- sented themselves foi- baptism. At no time in the history of the church had tlicre been such an interest, or as many convert- ed to the ti'utli. At this meeting we find the following resolution inserted, which evinces the teiuicity lo which sonie hold a pi'ejudice against the " innovation of instiaunental music" — moscnlbvE. Topping, March Oth, and lost ; but, l>y his ret^uest, was now in- serted in the minutes : "Whereas JJi'o. James Martin has l)een for ;i number of years grieved on account of the manner in which insti'umental music was introduced into this chunli ; and whereas he now expresses his willingness to \yQ reconciled to the church, on conditio! that the church passes a resolution expressing regret that instrumen- tal'music was introduced in such a manner as to grieve any of its members ; thererefoi-e, i-esolved, That this church does i-egret that it should have been so introduced as to giieve or give oftence to any l)rother or sister." Sabbath, May 4th, was a day long to be I'emembered. The hand of fellowship was given ])y Pastor Bates to '1\ iiew mem- bers, nearly all of whom had been recently baptized — 18 were females and G males. Revs. Bates and Fyfe and Deacon Pavey wei-e delegated to sit in council at Petrolea on the ordination (►f Bro. Johnston. May 21st Brethren Fy^<^? P-i^'t*}'? Karn, McCall and the pastor were appointed to attend as delegates to the association, to be held at Villa Nova — pastor and 11. W. Sawteli to write the cir- cular letter. Sunday, May 25th, eight were i)aptized. June 18th the young people of the church, having oi'ganised E C6 THE HISTORY OF THE lOi themselves into a society kiiowti as the " Young People's CHiris- tian Association in connection with the church," and desiring to establish a Sabbath School in the west end of the town.reported tliat they proposed to buy a lot, and asked the liberty to have rhe deed made to the trustees of this ciiurcli — request granted. A letter was read from the pastor, resigning his charge oi the pastorate. Special church meeting held 25tli June. The resignation of Bi'o. Bates was fully discussed ; aftr^r which the following reso- lution was passed: "Thatwiiile we cannot urge our beloved pi.stor t.i continue labors to which he iinds his physical strength no longer equal, we cannot permit the peaceful and loving rela- tions we have so long sustained to each other, as pastor and people, to be discontinued witliout expressing our grateful sense of the fervent piety, Inti'nse zn-iI for our spiritual wel*'^re, and whole-liearted consecration to his Master's work, which have c;aistantly abounded in his lalx^rs amongst u:= ; and we rejoice til be assured that his resignatio!!, at this time, is due to no feel- in^ of dissatisfaction wit/h the imperfect manner in which we ^lave discharged oui' duties, as a Ou'istian church. In accept- ing this resignation, we sin'.^ei'elj' hope that a n^loase from the arduous la))ors and responsiljililies, necessarily devolving upon tlio pastor of so hii'ge a church, will fully restore his health ; and that we may still enjoy the pleasure of his company and receive the benefit of his mature knowledge and large Christian experi- ence." Tire cl»*ik was instructed to send the letter of the pastor aiul a copy of this resolution to " The Iia})tist "for publication. No pastor could be more beloved ])y his people than Elder Bates ; and never did any pastor woi-k moi'e devoutly and con- scientiously f(a* his church — faithful sowinii" : and aljundant reaping was the result. The large accessions to the church, and particularly of the young, gav,' evidence of his loving ministra- tions. Nor did it end with his pastorate ; his successor reaped largely, for a year or more, as the results of Mr. Bates' faithful sowing. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 67 Not in the cliurcli only were his lahors .■il)undant ; hut he gave of his means, and his valuable services as secretary of the executive committee of the Institute for many years. In India, also, his name — and those of his two honored daughters, Mrs. Timpany and Mrs. "McLaur-in — are known and liiglily honored in many Christian homes as faithful servants of che I-oi'd. Iil fact he ^yas the faithful advocate and helper in all our denomi- national enterprizcs. CHAriEK X. E W. Dadson Licensed to Preach — Call to Rev. E. Goodspeeu — INSTALLATION— Mission' Schools East and West— Fall of CiHRCH Ceilini; — Co^niiTTKE:; FOR Church Work — Death of Elder Bates— N::v»" BriLiaNo on Yansittart Avenue— D. A. McGregor. * February L'^th, 1874, E. W. Dadson applied to the church for a certificate of recommendation to the \vork of the Crospcl minis- try. Letter granted. • Brethren Montgomery, Pavey and Sawtell v.-ere app(.inted a committee to provide a leader of the choii", to succeed the latter, who retired from the leadership. The committee ap])oint<'d to nomin;ite a suit;d)le pastor for the church reported in favor of the Ptcv. Calvin Goods])eed, of New Brunsvv'ick. Tie report was adopted, and a call forwarded. One thousand dollars pei' annum was the sum fixed for salary. March 18th a letter was read from Mr. Goodspeed, accepting the position of pastor, "services to connnence 1st (»f September next." V It was reported, that after paying 810 for wood, .^GO towards the new fence and 817.50 towards the org.mist's salary, the fj 68 THE. HISTORY OF THE i'' Ladies' Aid Association intended discontinuing its operations during the suniiner months. The report was adopted. Brethren Karn, Sawtell and Howland were appointed a com- niittee to provide accommodation for those who desire to attend the public meeting, to be held at the C. L. Institute, April 7th. Letters of dismission were granted to Elder Bates and wife, to unite wit!) the cliurch at St. George, where he had accepted a call to the pastorate. Thus, on the 29th day of April, a pas- torate (of six years' duration) was severed, which had ;>een greatly blessed «)f God in the salvation of many soals, and the uplifting of clmreli woik and Christian privileges in the church at Woodstock ; sui'passiiig any similar period in its history. For two yeai's a Sab^)ath School had been successfully^ held in the west end, and IMr. Bates, with others, had mad'^ efforts to secure a suitable lot for the erection of a school, but so far with- out success. July I'Oth W. Nasmytli resigned the treasurership of the church, and Bro. T. S. McCall was appointed his successor. R. H. Burtch and II. W. Sawtell to audit the late treasurer's books. Octolier I4tli John M. Whyte, who had for some time been leader of the elioir, n^s^gtled ; and a vote of thanks was tendered him for his efficient services. The deacons, who had been asked to make arningements for installation services, i*epoi'ted in favor of holding such meeting on Tuesday evening next. A committee, previously appointed, submitted a scheme for systematic chur<'h work, under the control aiul charge of the church. It embi-aced the Sal)])ath Scho.)l work, tract distribu- tion, visiting sick, caiing for sti'angers, visiting delimiuent mem- bers and .several other matters. The scheme was adopted, and committees a|)]>ointe(' to carry out ihv various departm-'uts of work. Octoljer 20th — -The installation of Pastor Goodspcsed took place this evening, when Dr. Castle preached an elocpient ser- mon appropriate to the occasion. Re\ . W. H. Porter, of Brant- ford, gave the a same. Sabbath, January 3 1st, Rev. C Coodspeed baptised seven candidates at Strathallan, in the forenoon, and sixteen in the Woodstock Church in the evening. The house was crowded. i ■►'u. #> -it hh ', ! J^ '0 THE HISTORY OF THE The centre piece and part of the plaster fell from the ceiling. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but considerable damage was done to the seats. The trustees met on Tuesday morning and decided to recommend the putting up of a substantial wood ceil- ing. February Dth a request was made for delegates to sit in coun- cil at Strathallan, with the view of organizing a church there. Brethren Pavey, Hatch, Yule, Topping and the pastor were elected delegates thereto. Lettei-s of dismission were given to twelve members to assist in forming said church. A plan for a board ceiling, prepared by Mr. Biggins, was sub- mitted to the church and adopted. Sabbath, 7th February, the hand of fellowship was given to twenty-two members. February 17th — Moved by R. W. Sawtell, seconded by T. S. McCall, "That, whereas this church is indebted to the late treasurer, W. Nasmyth, $100, being an error in the building fund account — and the costs of the new ceiling amounting to $350, requiring the total sum of $4oO — therefore : " Resolved, That a committee be appointed to raise the amount by special subscription." Sabbath day, !March 14, the ceilmg having been completed, the church retui'ned to its own audience room, and Dr. Fyfe preached an excellent sermcm. Prof Crawford baptised seven candidates for GoVjles Church. In the evening Pastor Good speed preached and baptised 21 candidates. March 1 7 Bro. Cull resigned the office of deacon. The music committee were requested to confer with Mr. Karn as to the cost of the small pipe organ erected by the company. It was also decided to hold a social in favor of the Sabbath School. Almost everv Sabbath evenini; throui^h the winter candidates were baptised, and on the 4th of April the pastor gave tiie hand of fellowship to forty-seven members— the largest number in the the history of the church on one Sabbath. Among those ad- ^ FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 71 mitted by letter vv'as Dr. McLay. Nearly all the candidates baptised were young people, and to-day very many of them are the active members of the church. April 21 J. I. Bates was appointed superintendent of the Sab- bath School. Brethren Sawtell, Karn, ^McLay ind W. Clarke were appoint- ed to select a site for a west e^^d mission school. Karn, Sawtell and Nasmyth, a committee to billet friends at- tending a meeting at the Institute. May 19th a letter from Bro. John McLaurin was read, ask- ing aid for foreign missions. Delegates to tlie association : T. S. McCall, J. Hatch, C. Clarke, R. H. Burtch and tlie pastor ; Prof. Wells and clerk to write the letter. A new scheme was submitted to manage the finances — under a financial committee consisting of the deacons, trustees and treasurer — dividing the church into sections, and soliciting aid from every member personally ; eiijoining the duty of each one giving something ; and anyone six months in arrears f(jr pew rent, such seat " to revert to the cliurch." The report was ac- cepted, discussed and adojited. Sabbath, June 6th, Dr. Fyfe gave the hand of fellowship to eight new members. June 23rd a repoit was read from the Ladies' Aid Society, which was adopted, and a vote of thanks tendered for matei'ial aid rendered to the tinancfs of the church. R. \V. Sawtell presented a report of the cemetery fund and referred to the action of the Credit Valley Railway Company requiring part of the cemetery. A vote of thanks was given him, and he was reipiested to look well to the interests of this church, in regard to the right of way referred to. It was after- wards arbitrated for and '2h acres sold. R. H. Burtch was elected deacon in place of Bro. Cull, re- signed. Sunday, August 1st, Dr. Fyfe preached and gav3 the hani of fellowship to a number of new members. KP 72 THE HISTORY OF THE ¥^ 1^ Bro. (Tijodspeed's heath liaving given way, under the strain of heavy work all winter, the church voted hiui a month's vaca tion *' for a rest and to recruit his health." September 10 the resignation of W. H. i3radley as sexton was accepted, ajid Bro. Clifford appointed to that positit)n. October 21st Br«». Nasmyth's i-esignati«>n as trustee was ac- cepted, and a vote of thanks tendered him. On November 18th E. H. Grove was elected trustee. After a short season of rest Mr. Bates, our late pastor, accept- ed the pastorate of tlie St. George Church, and was there only about a year, when, after a very shoi't illness, he was called away '" to everlasting bliss" on the 8th day of October, 1875,and was buried in the Woodstock Baptist cemetery. December 16th Mrs. Sarah B;ites was receixed by letter from the St. George Church, and Brother and Sister Landon " by ex perience." At the first meeting in January, 1876, Bro John Torrance was received by letter from the Yorkville Church. A vote of thanks was passed in favor of Bro. T. S. McCall for " very able services rendered as treasurer of the church." February 2i, 1876, a special church meeting was held. 11. W. Sawtell gave a verbal report from the finance committee, in re- ference to the deV)t on the church and the need of accommoda- tion for the west end school, rcvjuiring about $.'),. 'iOO. He then moved, Tiiat an efl'ort be made to raise $1,000 by sul)scription this year, in tv/o payments, to r)rovide lecommodation for the Sabbath Scliool in the west enrl ; provideil tliat $200 of the same ])e applied to the debt on the church." Carried unanimously. The matter was left in the hands of the finance connuittee, M'ho were to submit plans and estimates to the cliurch. It was also decided to hohl a social on the following Monday ev(>ning for the benefit of the Sabbath School — twenty cents admission. Sabbath, March 5th, ten members received the hand of fel- lowship. Special meeting, April 27th. The canvassing committee re- ^1 FIllST BAPTIST cui'itrir. '3 ported subscriptions to the amount of ^1)98 as pledges for the new school house, to be erected on the corner of Hunter street and Vansittart avenue, where a corner lot had l)een selected. The tender for the building was awarded to 13ickerton & Co., for the sum of $875. Reports adopted. May 18th Bro. Carryer resigned i\\o office of deacon. On motion it was accepted, and Mr. Carryer thanked for his services. R. W. Sawtell reported proposed tei-nis of union with the Presbyterian brethren in regard to inanagemeiit of cemeteries — adopted. The hnaace committee was authoi-isrd to borrow $G00 "to meet financial requirements." Delegates to the association : Jh-etlircj) (xoodspeed. M(mt- gomery. Bates, J. Topping ;ind Mt.'Call : tlie pastor and M«mt- gomery to write the letter. June 14th the [)astor and Ijrethrcn T(>ppir.g and Karn were delegated to sit in council with the JM-aclnille Church, for the purpose of ord.-iiiiing J. W. A. Stewart. D. W. Kai'ii v.as elected deacon in })]ace of C. C. Carryer, resigned. August 24th a li cnse was granted lo Ih-o. T. 8. McCall to "improve liis gifts "" in preacliing the _i,';sp('l. The west end mission chapel was duly opened, and preaching once a Sabb;ith by students ami others t•^tHb'islled. The 'j'ustees were authorised to erect a gate and fence the cemetery with wite fence. August 31 instructions were given the trustees to have gas- light introduced into the church at a co.*^ of .Si 0. A Sabbath School picnic was authoi-i/ed to l)e held on the 4th of September. Brethren Orove, Sawtell and R. 11. lUirtcli were elected a music committee. Father Hallnin and J. H. Hill were adn/itted mend)ers, and on the 23rd of No\'ember E. W. Dadson was dismissed by letter to the Denfield Church. The hour for preaching in the west end was changed to G.30 p.m. si l1 mf ■b l|i 74 THE HISTORY OF THE Ii)> Sunday, January 7th, 1877, the hand of fellowship was given to seven meni])ors. Sunday, February 4tli, ten members were admitted to mem- bership. February 22nd the committee having the charge of the west end mission reported that they had subscriptions to the amount of $80, and recommended the appointment of D. A. McGregor to the charjjje of the mission for six months. March 1st — At a special meeting the weekly offering system was again discussed, and the deacons requested to report thereon at next meeting. It was decided to have a " basket social " to raise funds for the Sabbath School on tlie 13 th. March 15th it was resolved to adopt the free seat and weekly offering systeuis. April 18th Pastor Goodspeed, Dr. Fyfe and Deacon Burtch were delegated to attend a council at Salford, to recognize a Baptist church there. Special church meeting March 29th — A lengthy report from the deacons was adopted, referring to a plan to liquidate the debt ; to make other improvements ; resignation of Bi'o. Biggins as treasurer and appointment of Bro. J. H. Bache, and E. H. Groves as assistant treasurer and collector of weekly offerings ; appointment of T. S. McCall, A. O. McKee and R. G. Sawtell as ushers ; a vote of thanks to the Ladies' Aid Society for the sum of $100 for gas fitting fund. A vote of thanks was passed in favor of Bro. Biggins for services as treasurer. April 1 the pastor gave the hand of fellowship to thirteen new members, including G. B. Davis and D. Lang by letters. Bro. Torrance gave notice that at the next meeting he would make a motion to elect all officers annually, by ballot, including the two senior deacons. The delegates appointed to attend the association at Simcoe were : the pastor, T. S. McCall, R. A. Fyfe, J. Hatch and R. H. Burtch. The beneficent card plan for missions was introduced ; Brethren McKee and Bache appointed to carry out the system. - 7 I 1.^ FIRST BAPTIST CIIUP "H. i') July 19th various reports were roacl from committees appointed to visit delinquent members, with the view of revising the church roll. Some promised better attendance for the futui'e, and some names were dro})ped from the roll — including W. Nasmyth, whose ease had been under consideration of the church for years; having been labored with under tlie ad\ ice of various commit- tees, but all failed to reconcile him on supposed grievances. The pastor was granted a month's vacation. November 1st Brethren Hatch and Torrance were appointed to sit in council at the Burgessville Church to examine and ordain Bro. Munroe. November 15 Bro. Montgomery asked to V)e relieved from deaconship on account of press of work. The church declined to accept his resignation, and urgf-d him to continue. December Gth — At the request of the Adelaide Street Baptist Church, London, a delegation, consisting of the pastor, Bro. Tor- rance, Bro. Karn and Bro. Catling, was sent to sit in council, for the purpose of recognizing said church. January 17th, 1878, a member of the church brought a charge asjainst the members for non-attendance at the funeral of his six months old child ; v/hereupon a resolution of " condolence and sympathy foi- the j^arents was passed." A committee was appointed to promote greater sociability among the members, consisting of Montgomery, Sawtell, Bache, Pavey, McKee and Raynier. January 24th the treasurer's report was read, and the thanks of the church tendered to Bro. Jiache for the very satisfactory manner in which the work had been done. Also a vote of thanks to the auditors. February 3 the social couunittee reported in favor of forming a " mutual improvement association " and meeting periodically. To hold the first after-tea social on the following Friday even- ing — adopted. February 21st it was resolved : (1) "That this church adopts the "Baptist Church Manual " - is the rules of order, and "De- claration of Faith," and that ih' clerk be instructed to purchase i\ :t.' If'' 76 THE IIISTOIJY OF THE one hundred copies for distribution among tlie members. (2) That one hundred copies of Sanky and Bliss' '^ Sacred Songs and Solos " be purchased for the use of the prayer meetings, and twenty-five copies for use in the gaol services. (3) That the fol- lowing be officers of the " Mutual Improvement Society," viz : E. H. Grove, pres.; R. G. Sawtell, vicepres. ; A. O. McKee, sec; ¥. H. Muir, treas." The friends of temperance asked for the use of the church on the 11th of March to hold a meeting therein — granted. March 3rd Bro. Challen, who had been conducting the sing- ing for some time, tendered his resignation ; but was asked by the church to reconsider the matter. The treasurer and his assistant were re-elected for another year. May 16th Rev. C Goodspeed, l^r. Fyfe, W. Pavey, T. S. Mc- Call and J. Hatch were appointed delegates to attend the asso- ciation at Vittoria ; T. S. McCall, R. \V. Sawtell and the clerk to write the circular letter. Bro. Bache having resigned the treasurership, on account (»f leaving, Bi'o. D. W. Karn was appointed" treasurer. A resolution of regret, to see Bro. Bache leave the town, and expressive of the appreciation of his sei-\'ices while a member of this church, was passed, and a committee appointed to give some tangible expression of our regarils for himselt and wife. This was done, and an address and presentation made, bef(^re his departure for the " Old Countiy." «•! FIRST BAPTIST CIIUUCIl. < I CIIArTEU XI. Rev. C. Goodspeed Rrsk.ns — Annual P]lei'i'u>ns of Dkacons Initi- ated— Death of Dit. Fvrr.— Benefi<,'ent Cakd Plan — Call to Rev. Mr. Johnston — Declined — Rev, .1. Tohkani e Sippltes — Rev. B. F. Ahiiley A<'( ei'ts a Call— Bro. Wells' Rrsi<;natio\' — Closing the We.st Mission— Devth of Prin. Tokkance. Kii June '20th Pastor Goodspeed road l)ofc>re tlu> meetiiii,' his resignation as pastor. Special meeting held July 2nd — Pi'of. Torrance in tlie cli?iir. There was a full meeting ot members. The I'es'ignation of Pas- tor Goodspeed was i-ead, and after some discussion and a fid! explanation by the deacons, Bro. IMontgomery moved the fol lowing resolution : ''That in accepting the resignation of our pastor, Rev. C. Goodsj^eed, i\I. A., we desire to express our appreciation of him as an earnest, faithful .-.nd devoted minister of the gospel, believing, as we do, that he is a 'workman t)iai needeth not t<^ be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of trutli '; and further I'esolved, That we extend to him, wherever God's Providence may place him in the futui'e, our best wishes, out- sympathies and our prayers ; and that ;i vacation of foui* weeks ])e given to Bro. Goodspeed." "That tlie deacons be constitutt^d a supply committee, and also to make ari-angements for tl.e settlement of a pastoi*."' At this time the deacons pressed their resignation upon th(> church, when, after some explanation^ ft was P.esolved, "Thai, the question of electing deacons ajinually be laid upon the table until next church meeting. "Resolved, That the limit of salary for the pastor ])e recon- sidered and opened for discussion at next meeting.'' July 8th, Bro. Torrance in the chair. The following re.solu- tions were passed : " That the previous salary of the pastor be asutticient guide to the committr^e." "That the trustees be l\ 78 THli HISTORY OF TIIK clectod iuiuujilly, on the Hist i( L,'ul;ii'l)usiiioss ineetiii<; in January, and two retire annually tli'Toafter." "That the deacons hv elected in the same way." '*Tliat they ])o requested to witli- [. Kennedy, A. Dewar ; and V. W, Asauche received a letter to the Gait ehui'ch. December 11th — On motion of Dr. McLay and D. W. Ivani, Professor Watt was eni,M;.,'ed for thi-ee months foi* the "'"..» of 850, to ti-ain the choir and members at th<^ eoni^regatioii in smoing January l'')th, 1879 — It was resolvrd, Tliat the scheme pro- posed foi" the moi'e ettici(Mit workiiifj of the beneficent card plan be adopted, and a committee appointed to carry it out. January lOth — Trustees were elected as follow^;: For three, years, W, Pavey and R. H. P»urtch; two years, H. W. Sawtell and E. II. drove; one year, John Ilale'i .tud AV. Biggins, Deacons — For three years, Biggins and Pavey; two yeai's, liurtcli aiu' Hatch; one year, Karn and drove. Ti'easurer, D. W. Karn; Assistant, E. H. Grove; Clerk, (\ C. Carryer; Ushers — W. Chave and W. Duncan. January "iOth — Resol\-ed, To hold a tea-meeting in February, for the Ijenelit of the Sabbath school, the teaclu^rs to be the com- nuttee of an-angement; fee, 25 cents. Breth*M'n Hunter and Torr^xnce wer.' deh^gated to sit in coun- cil at Port llowan over some church ditliculties. FeVw'uaiy 19th — The beneficent card system, as recommended by circulai", was adopted, and Dro. F. ^luir ap[)ointe(l superinten- dent of the same. lle[)o]ts from the east and west mission Sabl)ath schools were read and adopted, and the superintendents sustained in their work. March 19th, Deacon Mont'^omery reported, on l)ehalf of tlu^ supply committee, in favor of giving a call to the Rev. Mr. Johnston, of the Eastern Stati'S, who had acceptably supplied the pulpit the last two Sabbaths. It was moved l)y R. W. Sawtell, ehairmnn of the finance committee, seconded by W. Pavey, that a call to the pastorate of this church be extended to the Rev. Mr. Johnston, and that the vote be taken by ballot. ;^ ,sO •mi: insTOHY of tiik March 2Gtli -T. 8. McCall and 11. G. Sawti>ll wcro appoiiitoJ scrutincort;, and the vote nn tlio call of the j>ast(>r taken by ballot, wluMi it was found tliat thcro was 80 for and 10 a<^ainst. The sum of .^1,000 was fixed for the annual salary, and the expenses of moving' were to be paid by the church; and one month's vacation idluwt-d rach year. Api'il '2.>rd- Tile supj.Iy connnittee reported that the Ke\ . Mi*. Joluistoii had failed in Ljettini^ a release from his present pastorate, luMiee "could not accept the call so kindly extended to him." i-veport received, and connnittee* rtvpiested to procecnl in j)rocurinu a j^astoiv Iv. W. Sav.lell rcjiorted, ihat iii acciU'dance with tlw terms of the deed of conveyanct? of th(» cl)ui"ch property, the election of trus- tees was illei^'al ; heiKv the two formei" trustees, left off in the said election, must be restored and the board I'emain as befoi'e, viz.: Messrs. Pnvey, Toppii;?/, Carryer, 11. II. Bnrtch, (Jrove and Sawtell. llep«-rl j'.dop'.cd accordini^'ly. Ai>ril 30th Iho (l(»o(lspt>ed gave the hand of feliowshi]) to Miss McKee and Ih-etin-en Davfoot, Weir and 1 favihmd. 0?-. McLay and wite returned from the Aylmer chui<'h. May 7i!i a caivful rrpori from the deacons, reconmiending a revision of the tinp'cii roll, was adopted and many names of ab- sent and delinin'i'iii members dropped from the roll. IJrethren Sawieji .uk' C'arj'ver a[)pointero. Walk'-r. of Thoi'old (who supplied th(^ pul}>it to-day), and Ih-etliren .Me(,>uari'i(^ ami iieardsall were ap- {)ointed delej^ates tu allend a eouncil at Drumb-t, for the pm"pose of ordain ini,' .1. I >. ^^•(^•lll. 'I'lie iiand of fellowship was ijiven by l»ro. Walker t.. Ibetlireii Watts, Willanl, Heath, (Jeo. Peters a>id wife. August r»t!i \\\(i. Montgomery rept»rted that he had leathered fi-om pri\ate eorrevpiMid' U'-e w ith Kev. Mr. Johnson that it was possible to obtain his aeceptanco of the pastorate here if we could altbrd to ad\ance the salary to .f>l,200. It was unatu mously resoh'ed to make Hint ofler and repeat I lie call. FIRST HAPTIsr CIlUnCH. 81 Deacon Karii reported tliat on tlie reconnnendatioii of Rev. Mr. Codville, he bad taken upon himself the responsibility of in- viting the Rev. Mr. Ashley, of Pittsburg, to Sv.pply the pulpit here on the 17th and 24th of August. August 20th a committee was appointed to prepare an address to Bro. Montgomery and wife, wlio were intending to return to Ann Arbor, they havijig rejidered twelve years* faithful services to the church. August 24th the address mentioned was read by the commit- tee and approved by the church. A resolution was passed to raise the sum of one hundred dollars for the home mission fund. 8epteml)er 24 Brethren Sawt^'i and Karn were appointed to audit the books af the superintendent of the "card plan," F. Muir being about to leave ior the west. J. Millard was appointed to the position left vacant by his removal. Rev. Mr. Ashley, having supplied the pulpit for two Sab- baths, and having furnished numerous testimonials speaking in the highest terms of his abilities and piety, it was : R -^solved to extend to him a call to the pastorate here at a salary of $1,200 per annum. October 22nd it was decided to hold a social at which the pustor-elect would be inducted. Committees wtHV, api)ointed to rarry out the })rocee(lings. Sabbath morning, November 2nd, 1S79, the Rev. W. H. Lan- don gave the hand of fellowshij) to Mr. and Mrs. Ashley and daughter, and Mrs. Haiper ; also t<» Mrs. Wolverton, H. J. Xowland and Mi> B. Sinclaii*. November IDiii U. W. Sawtell reported that the proceeds of the teameel^l amounted to ^Oo.To. T\w trustees reported in favor <»f jnaking alterations in the singing galleiy. Mr. Karn reported progress m r^'gard to upholstering the seats -inviting the ladies toassint. December 17th Mr. (roo^spred was appointed superintendent of the beneficent fund, in place of J. Millard — resigned, and F ,f./*^ wmw 82 THE HISTORY OP THK It)' D. W. Kani, 8. J. McKee and R. W. Hasvtell appoiiitcl .*i com- mittee on socials. January 2Dth, 1 S80, Rev. John McLaurin was received by letter from tlie Sti'atford church. Twelve candidates were separately voted un mid received for baptism and memberHliip. The folio winij; otKcors w(n'e elected, viz : Deacons — D. W. Karn and E. H. (rrove ; treasurer, T). VV. Kara ; assistant, E. H. Grove ; clei-k, C. C. Carryer. Hro. Top})ini.( tendered his resignation as trustee, and was ask- ed to reconsider it. Tt was resolved that BrethriMi Karn, S. J. McKee and Haw- tell be appointed to print a lint of the members. Rev. John Torrance Jviid Prof. (Joodspeed were ap[)ointed delegates to sit in council at Plattsville, U) organize and recog- nize a Baj)tist church there. Maich 7th the hand of f. June -"h-d. the pastor ;ind (hsicons were appointed a standing counnittee, having supervision over the delimpiefit members. The thanks of the church were teiidered to Bro Karn for tlie use of an oi'ga»! in the west end mission. July LMst,. A. (). .McK<'e was a})poii.»ted to supei'intend the beneficent card plan, in place of I^ro. (roodspeed. September Sth, a special meeting was lu'ld to appoint fout delegates t<> the "Canada Raptist Union," to be held in Toronto next month. The following were elected: R. W. Sawtell, W. Pavey, R. H. lUirteh and J. Hatch. Octobt^r Gth, the Rev. John Salnnui, of the Congregational fm 1 FIKST UAFTIST CHUKCJI. f<:] church in Embro, maclc application for baptism, and after giving his experience and explanation was received — also his wife. Sunday, 14th Novenibei*, the pastor and Rev. J. Torrance were delegated to attend a council in Toronto, for the pur}>ose of ijistalling Rev, J. Salmon pastor of a l>aj)tist church. December 19th, H. F. Laflamme, J. S. ilughson, I. S. Fostei-, and John Wash})urn were l>a})tized. December 29th, it was resolved, That all moneys c >llected for ciiui'ch woi'k br passed thiongh the books of the treasurer, so that a more accurate record mav l)e made. January 20, 1881, the annual meeting was held, whon the fol- lowiiig reports we)-e I'cad and adopted: CfniMtciy, R. ^V. Saw- tell; Treasurer, O. W. Karn; Sabbath school, R. (J. Sawtell ; F^ast mission, Bro. W<'ir. Two deacons were ))alloted foi . resulting in the el«'cti(ui of John Hatch and R. H. Ihirtch. Ti'easurer and assistant, Kaiu and Grove. Superintendent of Ix'nilieent cai'd system, A. O. McKee. Tt was voted to j)ay .^"l.oU por month for rent of mis- sion schor!l-i'(M»m in the east vnd. January 2(>th, letters of dismission were granted to Bio. J. E. Wells and daughtei', ton Torcaito chuich. Bro. Wells had been a faithful and helpful memluM' of the church fo!* so many yeais, that it was with j)rofound re<'ret that circumstances had detcrnuned him to give up teaching at the cctllege here, and the church felt it keenly. During the latter years of Di . Fyfe, an«l ('specially after his h(>alth became enfeebled, Pr«)f. Wells had been practically the ]irincipal, and aftcM- the doctor's death Mr. Wells was appointed princii>al of the liierary department, and Rev. ,J. Torranoc; p'in cipal of the theological. Bro. Torrance now ]»ecanje principal of the whoh' schowl, but symptoms of failing health were evidee.t, and Prof. ToriMUce's frientls feared the worst in his case also. February IGth, Rev. W. Pickard and family were received })y hitter by (xuelph. April 13th — For S(mie time it luid been found Ijy expeiience ^1 ^^^ Pfp 84 THE IIISTOKY OF THK lit" ^: 4 that a mistake was made in erecting a mission school on Vansit- tart avenue. During the many years it was held on Dundas street west, the attendance at tlie Sabbath school was large, and the occjisional preaching by the students was well attended, and a deep interest felt. Prof. McGregor, while in charge of the mission, reported that the present location was not right, and advised opening the Sab- bath school Nvhere the children were: but there was no response to this appeal, and the result was that the mission was aV)an- doned, and a resolution passed, this evening, to adopt the report of the committee, who had charge of the property, to sell, as they had been offered $900 — it had cost the church about double tliat amount. May 18th, letters of dismission were given to S. J. McKee and wife, to Manitoba; S. S. Bates, toGoble's; John Trotter, to Strathroy, and (reoi'ge Frazer received by letter from Belleville. Brethren Ashley, McLaurin and R. H. Buitch, were delegated to sit in council at (fo])l(»'s, on the ordination of Bro. S. S. Bates, on June 1st. Brethren D. W. Karn and J. Beardsall to attend a council at Ingersoll on the ordination of D. Hutchinson, their pastoi'-elect. The pastor and J. McLaurin to write the letter to the associa- tion, and, with Pavey, Hatch, Catling and Beardsall, to attend th(^ association as delegates. The sum of !?^10 to be sent to the treasurer. August 7th, the deatli of Bro. John Torrance was recorded, and it was moved to send a letter of condoh^nce to Mrs, Torrance and family in the deep affliction they wei-e called to endure. Thus the college was again deprived of a}>rincipal, in the very prime of life and mental vigo?-, and the church of a worthy brother, and as an eloquent, logical and forcible j)i-eacher, l>ro. Torrance had so earned the entirt? lov<» and admiration of the church during his frequent ministrations, j)rior to the coming of ^Ir. Ashlev, that he could have had a unanimous call as its pastor; but he declined; not tliat he rejected or disliked the work, but that he felt that the call to the work to which he had FIRST BAPTIST ClIUUCH. .S5 k^ansit- )undas e, and id, and »d that le Sa))- 'spon^e ahan- report jell, as about McKee tter, to lleville. legated Bates, ncil at ir-elect. issocia- iittend to the L'( )rded. nM-ant'c c. le very worthy r, Hro. of the liiii' of ;is its cd the he had responded and done so well, as a theological teacher, the more important and necessary. September 16th, the pastor and deacons Hatch and Pavey were delegated to sit in council in 8t. George on the ordination of D. H. Mihel. Letters of dismission were granted to Re\ . C Goodspeed and wife — who vvere leaving the college here, as teachers, October 1th, liro. and Sister Westro. D. Mc Alpine to pieach, also lo Bi'o. J. Beardsall. May 17th, the folh»wing were appoiiitiMl delegates to the as- sociation to be held at Springf(H(l, \i/..: The pastor, J. Beardsall, W, Pavey, N. Wolverton, K. Topping, pastor and clerk to prepare the statiiitics and letter. .SC) Tin-: IIISTOKY OF TIIK Resolved, That the sum of 850 be given to aid in making a sidewalk to the cemeteries, and that Bro. Beardsall be requested to raise it ])y priva.te subscription. June 21st, Bro. Rolnlard was granted a license to preach. Bro. Pavey tendered his resignation as deacon of the church. Laid on the table. Bro. (Inne tendered his resignation as leader of the choir and deacon of the church. Also laid on the table. It was resolved that all business meetings close not later than 10 (»'cl(»ck J), m. Wednesday, July 19, 1S82 — In the absence <»f the pastor, Bro. Wolverton was called to the chair. Duriig the prayer- meeting sei-vice Pastor Ashley appeared and spoke at some length, referring to the " present aspect of church matters, and the different private opinions held by church members which af- fected his position and usefulness here, and ^pressed his inten- tion to vacate the pulpit and the pastorate of the church." He then left the meeting, when thv chairman closed and opened the business meeting. The minutes were read and adopted. Then a resolution p^l^-sed rescinding the last one passed at the previous meeting in regard to closing at 10 j). m. Then the following resolutions were ]>assed: That Deacon Pa\ey be requested to reconsider his resignation as deacon. ii»at Bro. (rrove's resignation as leader of the choir and deacon lw» accepted. Moved by K. Top])ing, seconded by E. Miller, and resolved : " That the resignation of Pastor Ashley, now submitted, be ac- cepted in the most friendly spirit, and the church assures Mr. Ashley that its best wishes for the haj)piness of himself and family will follow him to wherever God in his Providence may cast his lot. Moved by "W. Pivey, seconded by E. H. (Jrove, "That a sum equal to ont; <|uarter's salaiy \te presented to Mr. Ashley as a friendly offering of the church ; that Brethren Beardsall, Cat ling and Biggins })e the comn.ittee on pulpit supply." ^ FIRST BAPTIST CllUnCH. 87 August 3r(l, a special moetiiiLj was called l)y six meuihers, and N. Wtilverton, as chainnan, rend the same. Jt was then moved ]>y 1). W. Karn, seconded by 11. H. Burtch, That, in accordance with the expressed wish of a lar«^'e representation of the church, contained in a certain i-equisition, that we deem it expedient for tlie })rosperity of the cliurch, <;enerally, that there he a reor<^ani- zation ein«( taken his resi<;iialion was not ac- cepted. Bro. BeardsaH tendeied his resi«;nation as assistant- treasurer; not accepted. E. H. (irove lesiy^ned as deacon; ac- cepted. On motion of J)eacon Hat(;h the meetin<< was then adjourned. Au«,'ust IGth — J. Heardsali, chairman. The clerk was ap- pointed to write to Dr. Davidsjn in reference to Bi<>. McFar- lane's letter. Mrs. Yorke was appointed organist at a salary of $7'") per an- num. I). \V. Ivarn nppoiiited leader of the choii-. Scrutineers were? appointed and several ballots takrFi to fill the place of Deacons Karn, (irove and Burtch ; but as no one received a two-third vote of the membeis pn s(?nt^ no election took ])lace, and the meeting adjouined. August 'J.'ird, Rev. G. Richardson and wife were received on tlieir letters. September 20th, the following were appointed delegates to at- tend the " Baptist Unioi\," to be hfld in Hamilton in October, viz.: J. Beardsall, R. AV. Sawtt-ll, W. Pavey, J. Catling and R. I[. Burtch. The hour of meeting on Wednesday evenings was changed to H p. m. [j^'tters of dismission were granted to Rev. II. F. Ashley, wife, daughter, and Mrs. Harju'/, late organist of the church. Thus ended the conni'Ction with th<' late pastor, during who.se y ■ill f f 88 TIIK IIISTOKY OP THE ministrtatifnis a lar«jfe number of members had Ijeen added to tlie church, and tliough all thiiigH were not always as satisfac- tory as all could wish, considerable advancement had been made. The money received from the sale of the west end mission church was expended in alterations on the Central church, which greatly impioved its appearance, and the occmnmodation of the choir and the use of the baptistiy. The election of deacons was again proceeded with, when D. W. Karn and J. (-atling received the retjuired num)»er, and n(» others. Adjourned till next regular meeting. October 2nd, Bro. Kichardscui in the chair. Balloting for another deacon was proceeded with, when it was resolved. That as the ballot failed to pi'ocure a three-fourths V(>te, we defer the election till the annual meeting in January, ISS.'l. A committee, consisting of W. H. Landon, G. Richardson, Beardsall, Catling and Karn, were appointed a committee to pre- pare a revised draft of the constitution and by-laws. Novembei* IGth, G. Richardson in the chair. Bro. Beardsall recommended, on the part of the pulpit committee, to corres- pond with Rev. D. A. McGregor, of Stratford, with a view to a call to the pastorate oi this church. Report ad(>pted, and, with a view to ascertain the feeling of the meeting in regard thereto, a vote was taken and found to be entirely unanimous. It was further ,:;cid«d to submit the (piestion to the church next 8aV>- bath. SalaiT, $1,000. November 17th, it was uiianinously voted to extend a call to Bro. IMcGregor. Decemlwr 27th, a letter from Bro. McGreg<^>r was read, de- clining the call to U'come our pastor. Letters of dismission were gi-anted to Dr. Crawford and wife, to unite with th(^ Rapid City church, Man. The hour of Wednesday evening prayer meeting was fixed at 7:30 for the winter. .Fanuary, Nth, 188.3, it was decided by an informal vote toex- t lid a call t/) Dr. Davidson. He came and preached, but the call at $1,000 was not accepted. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 89 On the following evening the annual meeting was held, Rev. (t. Richardson in the chair. Befon; proceeding with the ehic- tion of otticers, Mr. Karn moved, and R. H. Burtch seconded, that the resolution moved by them, and passed ))y a small ma- jority at the church meeting, August 3rd, 18^<2 referring to re- organization of the otticial hoard and re-t»lection ut' othcers, be rescinded. Carried unanimously. The various reports for the past year were then read anril, April Is't, Rev. G. Richardson gave the hand of fellowship to nine new meml)ers. April 19th, Rev. T. S. Johnson, of Sarnia, having preached one Sabliath, was, by a vote of the church, invited to l)ecome its pastor. April 29th, delegates were appointed to attend the " Baptist Union" at Toronto, 1st May, viz.: D. W. Karn, J. Beardsall, J. Hatch, J. H. Hill, W. Pavey and Rev. G. Richardson. In the evening of the same day Rev. N. Wolverton baptized twenty candidates — chiefly students. May 9th, a coumiunication was received from ^Ir. Johns«)n, expressing regret that he could not accept our call, but thanking the church for* its confidence. May IGth, the following delegates were elected to attend the association, viz.: Brethi-en Wolverton, Sawtell, Beardsall, Rich- ardson, Topping and R. H. Burtch. The clerk and Mr. Rich- ardson to prepare the lettei* and statistics. ^^F- I 00 THE IIISTOHY OF THK The delegates were instructed to invite tlie association to meet ill Woodstock next veai*. D. W. Karn's resignation as leadei" of the choir was accepted. It was decided to pay tlie expenses of the delegates to the as- sociation. A new cominittee, consisting of J. H. Farmer, D. W. Karn, J. T. IJates, N. Wolverton, J. Beardsall and W. H. Landon were appointed to prepare and submit a draft for a constitution and hy-laws. May 23rd, Sahbath evening services w«M'e changed to begin at 7 p. m. On motion of II. W. 8awtell, sec(mded by K. H. Burtch, a vote of thanks was tt^idered to Bro. Karii for his services as leader of tlie choir. The statistics at the close of the year, May 31st, showed the numV)er of membeis to be 325. July 3rd, a special church meeting was held for the purpose of discussing the draft for constitution and bylaws. Bro. Richard- son in the chair, Bro. Sawtell, secretary. The meeting resolved to go into committee of the whole, and discuss every clause carefully. Four or tive nights were given to this matter were finally adopted, and ordered to be printed for the use of the meniWrs. July 10th, the pulpit committee reported in favor of extending a call to Rev. T. Trotter, when it was unanimously voted that a call be given, and that the (juestion be iinally disposed of on Sunday next. Sabbath, July L'itli — After preaching by Rev. (J. Richardson, he explained the action of the church in regard to the call to Mr. Trotter, and asked for a standing vote of the church. It was unanimous. Praver by Mr. Landon. July 18th, Miss A. E. Hatch resigned hei- position as organist. This was accepted, and the music committee instructed to select and app(»int a suitable successor. July 24, Bro. Trotter met the church this evening to explain his position as stud»Mit at McMaster Hall, and that he could FIHST BAPTIST CIIUHCII. 91 a not tuk(^ on tlio full churLCO of the <'hurch for some months. Two weeks were jLjjiven for further consicl(M'ation before accepting. August loth, a letter was read from Bro. Trotter heartily ac- cepting the charge on the terms proposed. A vote of thanks was given to liro. Catling for a i>n's»"nt of new gas Imrnei's for the ])ulpit. On motion of 11. W. Sawtell, E. H. Grove ^Tas elected leader of the clioir. Brethren Landon, Karn and Grove wei'e appointed a commit- tee to select and recommend a new style of hymn hook. Rev. T. Trotter occupied the pulpit, Sahhath, Scptemlwr 2, as pastor of the church. Church meeting, 8eptemb(T 20th, Pastor Trotter in the chair. The first I'esolution was to the ettect that when the hand of fel- lowship is withdrawn from any member, the ch'rk shall notify such member of the fact. The connnittee on hymn books reconnnended the adoption of the Baptist Hymnal. The report was adopted, and Bro. Karn instructed to order a supply and keep them in stock. The constitution and })y-laws, as amended, wei'e read and tin- ally adopted, and ordered that a pamphlet containing the same, together with an historical sketch of the chui'ch, wi-itten by Mr. Landon, and the names of the present members, be )>rinted. Bro. Beardsall was appointed to prepare a letter of condolence ii\m\ this church to Mrs. Davidson, of Tiverton, on the death of her husband, Dr. Davidson, so long and much respected tor his faithful services to the den(mnnation. A vote of thanks was tendej-ed to Bro. Uichardson on his leaving for Toronto, for his kindness in supplying the pulj>it so often. October 17th, Brethren Wolverton and Beai-dsall were dele- gated to attend a meeting at Bookton, to apj>oint an evjingelist. SabV)ath, December 2iid, Bro. Landon gave the hand of fellow- ship to Bro. Trotter. The pastor baptized W. Johnston, E, Palti'ige and Francis. IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) 1.0 '■ ' ^ li 2 8 I.I ■ m 1, '-°- 1.25 1 1.4 ll|M M I— 1.6 % (^ /}. /y V] m VI "■& c-^ v ^^> '/ ^a Photographic Sciences Corporation 23 WEST MAI '4 STREET WEBSTER, NY. 14580 (716) 872-4503 ■'' %> 4p. t/j fA " of the choir, which was accepted, and .. resolut: ii passed -expressing the thanks /f' the church for liis long and faithful services. Mr. E. M. Karn was appointed to the positum of header. The anniversary of tlie reopening of the church was held on the 19th December when Rev. Dr. Denov.in preached morning and evening to a very full house. On Monday evening Dr. Denovau delivered a lecture on "The Great Revival in Ireland," which was intensely interesting. Miss Grove presided at tlie organ and some choice vocal solos were given by Mr. and Mrs. G McLeod. The pastor gave a statement of the financial position of the church and asked that $400 be made up during the meetings. A sum amounted to $411 was announced as the result of both deny's collections. March 14, 1888, a special meeting of the church was called to elect delegates to attend the educational meeting to be held at Guelph, to decide the questions discussed in Toronto at the autumn convention* but not then decided. First: Independence versus confederation with the Provincial University," second, locating the arts department of McMaster University. Having referred to the object of this meeting it becomes Hi m 104 THE HISTORY OF THE ' i' If*' ■ necessary to make a brief explanation. Several years ago a similar meeting wis held in Guelpli also, to discuss the removal of the theological department from Woodstock to Toronto. The attendance of delegates was large and the discussion at times warm; and the vote if taken w(juld have been largely in favor of remaining in Woodstock, l)ut at the point of deciding Dr. Castle, then in the confidence of Mr. McMaster, made a statement to the effect that if taken to Toronto the necessary buildings would be provided and probably an endowment, but he was not at liberty to say more. It was evident that the matter could be left in such hands. It was well known that Mr. McMaster had set his heart upon the work and it was at once decided to let him. The result was that McMaster hall (subsequently named against his wisli) was erected at a cost of about $80,000 and largely endowed, and the theological depart- ment removed thereto — leaving the literary department doing the first year's university work — and tlie ladies department still at Woodstock. In 1880 and '81 a canvas for an endowment of $50,000 and for $10,000 to pay the debt at Woodstock had been made by Mr. Dyke to which it was liberally subscribed and a large part of the subscriptions paid. Subsequently, the subscribers of the old C. L. Institute, at the Paris convention, agreed to surrender their rights and man- agement to the denomination, *' provided it should be consoli- dated and developed." Later on a charter was obtained from the Ontario Govern- ment constituting McMaster University, when it was understood that the arts department would be developed at Woodstock. " The first of a series of buildings " was erected for a dining hall (and a second one planned) looking to the future requirements of the university, costing nearly $30,000, and the foundation stone of which was laid by Mrs. McMaster, in the presence of a large assembly, including the Hon. Mr. McMaster. The people of Woodstock had been solicited for subscriptions to the amount of $10,000 towards the erection of buildings for the art depart- M I FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. ior» ment, and had pledged $11,000 for that purpose, in anticipation of this becoming a university town. Expectation ran high, and when it was learned in the summer of 1887 that the location of the arts ':lepartment was unsettled, and that the question would he reopened and fully discussed in Toronto at the October convention, the friends of Woodstock college, and particularly the people of Woodstock, were astound- ed, and could not believe the rumor. Mr. McMaster died sud- denly before the discussion was opened. Previous to the October meeting in Toronto the Baptist opened its columns for a full discussion, and it was hotly argued as " Woodstock vs. Toronto." At the meeting held in Toronto, the question of " Independency " was discussed, and, virtually, decided to oppose confederation, but tlie %ote was reserved for a special meeting, to be held at Guelpli, on the 27th of March, 1888. The delegates named fi'om our own cljurch were : The pastor. Dr. Rand, R. W. Sawtell, D. W. Karn, N. Wolverton, J. H. Farmer and J. I. Bates, who were elected by ballot. The town subscribers elected Messis. John White, J. M. Grant and J. Sutherland, M. P., to represent tlieir interests at the meeting. The meeting was held in the Baptist oliurch, Guelph, and up- wards of 500 delegates were present. The (juestion of " Inde- pendency vs. Confederation," excited but little interest, and the vote was almost unanimous in favor of the formei*. The exciting question was the location ; but those favorable to Toronto had organized their forces to better advantage, and, by introducing a plausible clause in tlieir resolution to respect the " moral obligation to Woodstock,' find other well ordered plans, secured a small majority in favor of Toronto. It is need- less to add that the friends of Woodstock college were not only surprised but dissatisfied, and the town subscribers held an in- dignation meeting to condemn the wliole arrangement. The church here felt humiliated and disgraced by the break- ing of faith with the Woodstock subscribers, and all who had li'^' 1.!, I %- 106 THE HISTORY OF THE been led to believe that " Mr. McMaster had acquiesed in the purpose of developing the arts work here, and had made his will with that in view." The church openly expressed its dis- approval in a meeting held to hear the report of the delegates. The occurrence is so recent and so well understood that a fuller statement seems unneccessary ; but in justice to the Wood- stock church the reference now made could not be avoided. The following delegates were elected, March 21st, to attend a council at London South, to recognize a new church there, viz.: Brethren Beardsall, Catling, Pavey, McLaurin, Bates and the pastor. April 1st, a number of new members were admitted to the communion by the hand of fellowship. B. W. A. Grigg was duly licensed to preach. May 6th, a number of new members were added. May 16th, Miss Grove's resignation as organist was formally accepted, and a resolution of thanks and regret that circum- stances caused her to leave town, was passed — her parents having removed to Gait. Brother McLaurin asked the privilege of arranging for a lec- ture from Miss Reynolds, the lady principal of the college, in aid of the " Timpany Memorial." Granted. June 5th, Brethren Beardsall, Hatch, Wolverton, Bates, Farmer and Favey were appointed delegates to the association at Springford. Brother Farmer to write the letter. May 28th, the annual business meeting was held, when all the usual reports were read and received. It was resolved, " That it would facilitate the business to dis- pense with the assistant treasurer, and that Brother Beardsall l)e asked to hold the position occupied next year." June 1st, it was reported that Pastor Trotter was too ill to attend. Brother Farmer was elected chairman of the members' meeting. About 200 members were present. Afternoon and evening sessions were hekl, and tea served between. The reports which FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. lor had been received at the business meeting were read, discussed and adopted. Brother Beardsall accepted tiie office of treasurer, in place of D. W. Karn, resigned. W. Chave was appointed superintendent of the card plan. N". Wolverton resigned the superintendency of the Central Sab- bath school, and D. W. Karn succeeded him. A resolution, expressive of condolence, sympathy and love for the pastor in his affliction, was passed, and a promise made ta supply the pulpit during the continuance of his sickness. Mr. E. M. Karn was appointed leader of the choir and organ- ist, for one year, at a salary of $150. The statistics sent to the association were : Members, 401 ; contributions, $6,189 ; S. S. scholars, 256. August 5th — In the continued absence of Brother Trotter, the pulpit to-day was supplied l)y Rev. S. S. Bates, who ad- ministered the ordinance of the Lord's Supper. The hand of fellowship was given to several members by Brother McLaurin. August 15th J. McLaurin occupied the chair. After the dis- posal of several reports. Deacon Beardsall read the resignation of Brother Trotter, whose illness compelled him to take the step. It was decided not to accept the resignation then, but call a special meeting in two weeks for the purpose of considering it. August 22nd on motion of J. Beardsall a license was granted to Bro. Catling +o preach the gospel. September 2nd Brother Wolverton preached and gave the hand of fellowship to a number of new members. September 19th — llegular monthly meeting. Brother Wol- verton in the chair. Delegates appointed to the convention at St Catharines were : Brethren Wolverton, McKechnie, Sawtell, McLaurin, Hatch, Beardsall and Karn. It was moved by Brother Sawtell, seco uled by Brother Potts, " That the resignation of Pastor Trotter be accepted, and that Brother Wolverton notify him in a letter expressive of the sym- pathy of the church. ! i i-^; 108 THE HISTORY OF THE l'» A i h ml' llr^ ;'l^ A resolution was passed instructing the deacons to take the necessary steps to procure a pastor. October 16th — Brother McLaurin in the chair. A license was granted Brother J. B;oberts to preach, and the chairman to sign the same. October 18th the deacons brought in a report favoring a call to the Rev. E. W. Dadson, of Claremont, to the pastorate of this church. The adoption of the report was moved by Brother Wolverton, seconded by Brother Karn and carried by a standing vote. A committee was appointed to confer with Brother Dadson in reference to the " call." A request was presented from the ''Ladies' Circle," asking the church to co-operate with them in inviting the Ijadies' Mis- sionary Convention to meet at Woodstock next year. Request concurred in — with the promise to assist, also, in the entertain- ment of delegates. October 31st it was resolved to hold the anniversary services :about the 1 9th of December. A committee was appointed, with J. H. Farmer chairman. Brethren Gould and Duncan were ap- pointed ushers in place of Brethren Johnston and Catling, who had left town. November 21st Brother A. Havens was elected trustee in place of E. H. Grove, removed. It was announced that a telegram had been received from Brother Dadson, accepting the call of the church to the pastorate. Brother Topping appealed to the church, on a ruling of Chair- man Beardsall at a former meeting, in reference to an old matter decided ten years ago. The chairman was sustained by a large vote. December 2nd, 1888, Pastor Dadson occupied the pulpit and preached from Acts 2 ch., 47 v. He gave the hand of fellow- ship to several members before the ordinance, including Rev. S. S. Sheldon, teacher at the college. December 16th Brother Dadson preached sermons appropri- ate to the anniversary of re-opening. On Monday evening Rev. \' pi 111; m iMMi FIP.ST DAPTIST CIIURCir. lOD I I A. H. Munro, of St. Thomas, lectured. Collections were taken each diif in favor of the building fund. December 19th the report of the supply committee was adopted and the committee discharged. Deacons' report read and partially adopted. It was resolved to take a collection January 6th, to aid the widow of the late Rev. H. Woodward. January 6th, 1889, Rev. N. Wolverton gave the hand of fel- lowship to Mr. and Mrs. Dadson and others. January 16th — Regular monthly meeting. A num])er of candidates were received for baptism and letters of dismission granted. January 23rd Brother J. McLaurin spoke on the great needs of the foreign mission, urging the church to support one mis- sionary there. Sunday, January 27th, several were baptized. March 30th several were received by letter, and some dis- missed, also by letter. A committee, consisting of tlie pastor, Prof. Farmer and Bro. McAlpine,were appointed to take charge of the east end mission and report to the church. April 7th the pastor gave the hand of fellowship to ten new members, and in the e Venning baptized several others. April 16th the pastor and Deacon Beardsall were appointed to attend the ordination council at Plattsville, to ordain Mr. T. Shields. May 5th, the pastor gave the iiand of fellowship to thirteen new members. May 15th, the " Wocdstock Association " to be held at Beach- ville this year, and the following ))e delegates fi-oni this church, viz. : The pastor, J. Beardsall, W. Pavey, J. H. Farmer, R. \V. Sawtell, A. L. Haven and C. Duncan. N. Wolverton to write the circular letter. May 19th — Baptism this evening. Letters to the association read and approved. Statistics showing total number of members, after dropping 24, whose present standing was unknown, or had neglected their *j*/,„ 110 THE HISTORY OF THE 1 1 t' ill church privilege, was 394. Total aiiiount paid for all objects, ^5,075. S. S. scholars, 281; teachers, 36. Amount received, $171. Mission school: Number of scliolars, 120; teachers, 20. Amount raised, $144. May 2Gtli, the pastor baptized live candidates. Annual business meeting was held May 31st, when all the usual reports were I'ead and adopted, a vote was passed, express- ing thanks to Brother Beardsall for Ins faithful work as treas- urer. A very cordial vote of thanks was tendered to Grandma Burtch for her succcessful efforts in collecting special subscrip- tions of over $200, to apply to the reduction of the debt. Brother Beardsall was re-elected treasurer, and Brother Car- lyer clerk. Brethren A. L. Havens and N. McKechnie were elected deacons by ballot. Sunday, June 2nd, the hand of fellowsliip was extended to eleven new members, and others baptized in the evening of the same day. The members' annual meeting was Jield June 7th. Pastor Dadson conducted the afternoon and evening meetings, which were more deeply interesting than ever. According to previous notice, the three deacons recently elected were ordained by the *' laying on of hands." Two hundred and twenty meml)ers took tea together and en- joyed a social time. June IGth, letters of brotherly greeting were read from Brother T. Trotter, from jSTova Scotia, and Brother J. I. Bates, then pursuing his studies in Manchester, England. Several were baptized in the evening. June 19th, Brother McAlpine reported that it was advisable to appoint Brother Kennedy to the cliaige of the east mission, and the church approved of the same. June 22nd, the hand of fellowship v/as given to four mem- bers, and on July 7th to nineteen more, and others baptized the same evening, and others on tlic lltli. FIRST BAPTIST CIIUKCII. Ill Business meeting July 17th, pastor in the cliair, A.L. Havens acting as clerk. Deacons' monthly report read and adopted. The motion of Brother McLaurin, "Thrit the question of missions be discussed the first Wednesday in September," wjvs adopted. August 21st, it was decided to grant the use of the churcli for a farewell meeting to our missionaries, on the 5th of Septembei', and a committee appointed to make arrangements for the same. Sabbath, September 1st, eight members received the hand of fellowship. September 4th, a public meeting was held to Iist;pn to Brethren Walker and Brown, and say farewell on the eve of their leaving as missionaries to the Telugus. The meetinir was larijje aud in- spiring. Monthly meeting Septeml)er 15th. Several new members were received by letter, and others dismissed the same way. Deacons' report read and approved. Brother D. Nimmo, having been heard by the church, was granted a license to preach. The delegates appointed to attend the ccmvention at Ottawa, in October, were : the pastor, and Brethren T. P. Hall, R. W. Saw tell, J. McLaurin, C. Hatch, R. H. Bui-tch and J. Beards;dl. October 2nd — Having learned that the church only allowed our present membership to send five delegates, it was resolved, *'That the first five elected Vje the delegation." A resolution was passed, moved by N, S. McKeclinie, sec!>nd- ed by D Clark, " that we tend an invitation to the convention now assembling, to meet with us next year." Brother W. H. Huston and wife were received as members, on their letters to this church. In reference to the work of the convention lield at Ottawa, it might be stated that it was a very large and enthusiastic one, especially in regard to missions and French evangelization. Another important movement was the enthusiastic adoption, <^f Brother D. S. Thompson's resolution, condemning the prin- ii ■> ]\ 112 THE HISTORY OF THE uiple of "exemption from taxation of church property and min- isters' incomes." Considerable dissatisfaction was expressed in regard to the removal of the ladies' department from Woodstock to Toronto, which had been the work chiefly of Dr. Mc Vicar, the chancellor of McMaster University who had influenced Mrs. McMaster to assist in founding Moulton's Ladies College instead. The matter of beginning the arts work in McMaster Hall was discussed and largely disapproved, but not brought to a vote. Professor Farmer had Ijeen principal of Woodstock College since the retirement of Dr. Rand, but being elected to a chair in Toronto Baptist College, Bro. W. H. Huston, principal of one of the Collegiate Colleges of Toronto was appointed to take his place. Brother Wolveiton had succeeded in inducing the governors to establish a manner training department — the first in Canada— at the Woodstock College and as head of that de- partment had made it ;x great success. In response to the "moral obligation clj.use" Chancellor McVicar had succeeded in making very large changes in the building and equipment here and, with the tirist year's University work continued, Bro. Huston had accepted the chai'ge of Principal with great enthu- siam and threw all his e^iergy and love into the work of train- ing his "boys." " The Women's Baptist Misssionary Convention " was held in this church October 24th and 2oth, when a very large number of delegates attended. The meetings were open to the public, and a large number availed themselves of the opportunity of seeing women transact business ; and many were honest enough to confess that in prompt, business management, and short, effective speaking, they put to sliame some of the more preten- tious efforts of the " stronsjer " sex. At the close of tlie second afternoon session, the convention accepted the invitation of Principal Huston and his faculty to a reception at the college, and a delightful evening was spent there, taxing largely the space and hospitalities of that large institution ; but leaving pleasant memories of Woodstock and mm- the 3nto, ellor er to was be. )llege ill FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 113 the entertainment given during the whole of the convention. The Woodstock church will cherish as a coming to fragrant l)lessing the a longing for it of so many inspiring friends, and repetition of such. October* 27th the pastor and Brethren Topping and Beardsall were delegated to sit in council at Clijiton, in regard to some church difficulty. Sabbath, November 3rd, the hand of fellowship was extended by the pastor to eight members, including Brethren Huston and ■Robertson, teachers at the college. November 6tli it was decided, on motion of Brother Wolver- ton, that " thanksgiving services be held this year at, the college." November 20th Brother McAlpin made a verbal report, showing the necessity of enlarging the mission school premises. After a full discussion, the pastor and Brethren Wolverton, McLaurin, Sawtell and Burtch, were appointed a committee to investiga,te the matter and report to the church. The deacons recommended an increase of $200 per annum in the pastor's salary — carried by a standing vote. The deacons' report was taken up seriatim and discussed. The Sabbath school was granted the use of the audience room for their entertainment. The pastor reported on behalf of the hynni book committee, advising the adoption of the new edition of the Sankey and Moody hymns. December 4th Brother Wolverton, chairman of the committee on missions, reported, recommending (1), the strengthening of the east end mission — carried ; (2), on repairs and enlargement — laid upon the table ; (3), that the matter of building there and the west end be referred to the trustees for a report thereon. December 18th on motion of N. Wolverton, seconded by W. Pavey, it was " resolved. That this church do proceed to estab- lish a mission interest in the west end of the town." A committee consisting of the trustees and others was ap- pointed to proceed, with power to purchase a site for the same. .{ I;i IWv rl'i ..■•' Si': jv > ^t. ■ ;^;'t;..i £'.■! ) ^."^,5. lit THE HISTORY OF THE January 5th, 1890, the hand of fellowship was extended to sev^eral new members. January 15 — Monthly business meeting. A number were re- ceived by letter and for baptism. Brother Dadson announced that special evangelistic meetings would be held, beginning on Monday e^'ening. During the whole year of 1889 there had been a continual ingathering. No month had passed without a considerable increase ; and now there were indications (after the week of prayer) of a deep interest in spiritual things and he desired to give greater oppor- tunity for its manifestation. February 17th after the prayer meeting the regular business was transacted. Deacons' repjrt read and adopted. On motion of Bro. Biggins a commitTtee was appointed to arrange an after tea social on the 28th inst. Dr. McLay and Pri'.ieipal Huston were appointed to look after unruly boys who are in the habit of disturbing the East Mission. Reports were made in reference to sites obtainable in the west end and other matters, when the committee was requested to bring in a report upon "ways and means." February 26 th, R. G. Sawtell, assistant superintendant of the Central Sunday school, asked the church to supply the school with the new hymn book such as is now used in the prayer meeting — request granted. Brother Wolverton, chairman, reported that the committee had purchased two lots, with a frame dwelling on one of them, on the corner of Oxford and Hunter streets, for the sum of $1,- 400, and the deed would be made to R. W. Sawtell to hold till the trustees were prepared to accept it and assume the responsi- bility and the liability on the same. March 2nd, the Pastor extended the hand of fellowship to 9 members. Sabbath April 6 th, the hand of fellowship was extended by the Pastor to 1 1 new members. April 16th, business meeting. Deacons' report received and adopted. ^ FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 115 re- Brethren Topping and Pavey were appointed to draft a letter of appreciation of the services of Brother Carryer on liis retir- ing from his duties after so many yeirs of faithful services as church clerk. Brother D. K. Clarke was appointed clerk and he with brethren Carryer and Pavey were appointed to assist the Judson mission society of the College to obtain historical information asked for by said society. May 21st, Brother AVolverton reported the progress made in reference to the new building and subscriptions for the west end when a committee was appointed to collect the subscriptions as they become due and pay the same to the treasurer of the trustees, R. W. Sawtell. The delegates appointed to attend the association to be held at Scotland this year w^ere Brethren Hatch, Duncan, Bates, Beardsall, R. G. Sawtell, McLaurin,Miss Hatch and the Pastor. Total number of members 450. A resolution moved by Brother Topping condemning the sale and delivery of milk on the Sabbath and urging all Christians to fully observe the Sabbath as a day of rest and religious duties was carried. May 28th, It was moved by N. Wolverton, seconded l)y R. W. Sawtell that the friends of the East Mission raise $50 by subscriptions towards paying a student for the summer. May 30th, yearly financial meeting. The reports from every department of church work were read, received and laid over for discussion and adoption at the members' meeting. The following officers were then appointed: Treasurer, J. Beardsall ; clerk, D. K. Clarke ; treasurer of the building fund, R. W. Sawtell ; Poor Fund, Deacon Pavey ; benevolent scheme, W. F. Chave ; superintendent of Central Sunday school, R. G. Sawtell ; east end, Bro. McAlpin. Sabbath June 1st, the hand of fellowship was given to 12 new members. The annual members meeting was very enthusiastically at- tended and a profitable time spent in the usual manner. no THE HISTORY OF THE ( ■ §V i^ ■ m MJtM June 2oth, Brethren McKechnie and D. K. Cla»'ke were ap^ pointed to engage a student to supply the east mission pulpit. The $50 referred to having been subscribed. June 29th, Brethren McLaurin and Beardsall were delegated to sit in council at Parliament street church, Toronto, to ordain a missionary elect for India. July IGth, Deacon's report read and discussed seriatim and adopted. The Pastor stated that the committee had elected Brother W. Winter to till the pulpit at the east end, and having preached but once was taken down with fever and would probably die. On moti(jn of J. Beardsall, Brother McAlpin was appointed at the same salary to take up the work. Brother Huston gave notice that in two months he would in- troduce a resolution in reference to the question of tax ex- emptions. Brother Biggins asked to have his name withdrawn from the building committee, F. B. Scofield and W. Coventry were added. September 10th, several committees were appointed to pro- vide for the holding of the convention here in October. Brethren Dadson, McLaurin, Sawtell, Chave, Wolverton, Huston and Whitelaw were appointed delegates to the same. R. W. Sawtell reported that the west end church could be made ready for opening at the time of holding the convention and recommended that it be considered — referred to the build- ing committee. October 1st, the following resolutions were passed : (1) That Brother Wolverton be asked to preach the opening sermon at the west end, Oct. 19th. (2) Rev. S. S. Bates to preach in the afternoon and (3) Brother T. Trotter in the evening. (4) That Brother W. Coventry be appointed leader of the singing. (5) That the committee be instructed to procure a furnaoe for heat- ing the building. Brother McLaurin made request from Rural Dean Wade for the use of the audience room in which to hold a meeting in the interest of the "China Inland Mission" —request granted. P. '^ FIHST BAPTIST CIIUHCil 117 Ipit. and October 14th, tlie Deacons' report adopted. A committee was appointed to take chai'f^e of socials. The convention was held in the audience room and was very largely attended by delegates. The l)usiness as usual was crowded into too little time, but there was no very special or exciting subject discussed. The reports si. Aved a very prosper- ous year's operations. The new church was opened according to announcement and was well attended. Nearly all the pulpits in town were sui)})lied by delegates to the convention. October 29th, letters of dismission were granted to 52 mem- bers to organize a new church at the west end U) l)e called the "Oxford Street Baptist Church. ' Among tlu; number were the two strongest advocates of the enterprize, viz : Brethren Wol- verton and McLaurin. They have always felt that it was wrong to giv ■ r.p the west end school, and for some time agitat- ed resuming a^id trying to recover the lost oppor^ vity this time by starting a church for the convenience of our west end members. By persistent pleading Brother Wolverton at length got the members interested and the result has beeji the erectio'" of a building capable of seating 300 persons costing about $2,- 500, and the ortcanizim; of a church to which the "First Church" has dismissed about 80 of its members. Tiic new church invited Rev. W. H. Tapscott to become its pastor, who accepted the position. A farewell social was held in the parent church to give expression to the good wishes or those who remained to those who formed the new church. Much credit is due to many earnest workers and contril)utors, but it would l^e invidious to mention any but Brother Wolverton, now principal of Bishop's College, Marshall, Texas, and Brother McLaurin who returned to his beloved work in India. November 10th, a resolution was passed naming this church <'The First Baptist Church." Deacon Beardsall tendered his resignation of the treasurership 118 THE HISTORY OF THE If, '• I'.,- ^ ;^'. having accepted the position of canvasser for the Grande Ligne Mission. December 17, the Pastor and R. W. Sawtell were appointed to sit in council at Oxford Street church on the 29th inst., to recognize said church. The question of publishing the contributions of all members to the various funds of the church was discussed and the reso- lution laid upon the table for one month. Brethren Karn and R. W. Sawtell were appointed a commit- tee to complete arrangements for the concert to be held on 22nd December. The proceeds to be devoted to the choir fund. The Rev. T. S. Johnston, of London, to preach the anniver- sary sermons on the 21st January 21st, 1891, the Deacon's report was read and adopted. The discussion on the publication of names and contributions was resumed and adjourned after an informal vote largely in favor of the principal. February 18th, the deacons report read and discussed clause by clause. In reference to one on the music question, a com- mittee consisting of Brethren Karn, Huston, May berry. Bates and Sawtell was appointed to investigate and report at next meeting. February 25th, the (question of publication before referred to was finally voted on and carried in the affirmative — to come in- to effect with the present year. The music committee reported in favor of proceeding (1) To secure new members for the choir. (2) To raise funds for the payment of necessary expenses and report quarterly to the church the condition of the choir. March 18. Deacons' report read, discussed and finally adopted. Brethren Feagles, Mitchell and Leadbeater were appointed ushers. March 25th, the Pastor and Brethren C. S. Kerr and J. I, Bates were appointed a committee to suggest arrangements for supplying the Tuesday evening preaching for the summer months at the East Mission. rir.sT BAPTIST CHURCH. 119 Li gne jointed ist., to embers reso- ommit- n 22ad 1. nniver- dopted. butions gely in clause a corn- Bates ^t next rred to ome in- (l)To or the to the iopted. Dointed J. I, its for nonths Wednesday, April 8th, the music committee reported that they were prepared to go on and engage the leader, Mr. Sturgis, and the soprano, Miss McDowell, if a guarantee fund of S200 were subscribed. The balance was then made up and the church affirmed the course proposed by the committee. The east end committee reported that they had received pro- mises from about twenty persons, willing to take charge of the services at the mission. The report was adopted and the com- mittee continued. April 15th, the deacons' report referred : (1) to revising the church roll; (2) the annual report of the various treasurers; (3) the annual letter, calling the members meeting; and (4) the church letter to the association — adopted. Messrs. Mayberry and Chave were appointed auditors. A. O. McKee, treasurer, presented his (quarterly report. April 29th. A montli's rest from preaching was voted to the pastor, on account of his suffering from sore throat. May 20th. Deacon's report read and adopted. Delegates to the association: Brethi-en Beardsall, Surby, C. Duncan, R. G. Sawtell, J. I. Bates, A, Dickson, N. 8. iMcKecImie, and the pastor. May 22. The annual church meeting was held, and the usual routine business transacted. A vote of thanks was tendered to all the treasurers for etlicient work done. Tiie clerk and assistant treasurers were asked to co-operate with the treasurer in preparing the annual year- book. Friday, June 5th, 1891, the annual members' meeting was held, the following report of which is copied from the "Sentinel- Review" of June 6th: "The annual members' meeting of the First Baptist Church of this town has become an unalloyed pleasure to all who attend it; and the one that was held Friday last was equal, in every respect, to any former meeting. The object is of a social and edi*"'ying character; giving the members an opportunity to con- verse with each other, on their personjii struggles and enjoy- ments in their christian life, and marking their growth in grace ii !ii ; IV,' Til III ■^r. 120 THE HISTORY OF THE from year to year. The evening was particularly interesting in the fact : that during the past year this cliurch erected a new place of worship in the west end of the town, and discharged by letter 52 of its members, who formed a new church, and now have a settled pastor. An, invitation was extended to the new church meml)ers, and a large iiumber availed themselves of the reunion. The pastor, ]\[r. Dadson, took the chair at 4 p.m., and an hour or two were pleasantly spent in prayer, praise, and speaking, one to another, of the goodness of God. " Tea was served in the lecture-room from four to eight p.m., when the pastor resumed the chair, and, as in the afternoon, a large number of old ;ind young spoke of the past and pi'esent. Probably the most inspiring talk was that from ' Grandma Burtcli,' now about 87 years of age, and who has been a zealous meml)er of the church over G5 years. She was grateful for be- ing al)le to be present, which she had not expected. Another most interesting part of the progrannne, was the reading of letters from absent members, from Indi;i and other distant lands, as well as from various parts of this continent, nearly all of whom sent contributions towards the building fund — to which the tliank-offering is devoted." June 7th. New members were given the hand of fellowship V)efore the ordinance, and in the evening othei's were baptised. June 9th. At the request of the IngersoU church, for dele- gates to meet in council there, to try and settle a difficulty which had arisen over some doctrinal point, the following were ap- pointed, viz: Brethren Dadson, R. H. Burtch, and 11. W. Saw tell. September IGth. The deacons' I'eport recommended the taking up a special collection to supplement contributions to home and foreign missions — adopted. Tlie delegates appointed to the convention at Toronto wei'e : the pastor, \V. H. Huston, H. W. Sawtell, J. Beardsall, D. W. Karn. and J. Powell. Brother Bates, for the committee of the east mission work, reported that it had been efficiently discharged during the summer. Report received and committee discharged. mm FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 121 Brother R. W. Sawtell was appointed to write the Iristory of this church. The brethren of Medicine Hat asked for a contribution — granted. October 25th. The deacon's report received and read. It referred to the resignation of Miss Grove, organist- the anniver- sary services; social entertaiiiments; Doe Lake church. Report adopted. The music committee reported that Miss Ketchum was the only applicant for the position of organist, and had been engaged. Brother Huston moved that the report of the music commit- tee be confirmed; but, as this involved the question of authority of appointments, the matter was laid over for further considera tion. On the 20th of November, a pubHc meeting was hold in the First Baptist Church to say farewell to Brother McL;iurin and family. It was largely attended by friends representing the denominational interests. Brother McLaurin had been here some years recruiting his health, and during part of the time was engaged as F(jreign Mission Secretary, travelling fr(jm church to church all ovt^r the bind and l)y his presence inspiring the denomination with the mission spirit. Now he felt his strength renewed, and he knew also, that some of the active workers disapproved of the system under which he was working. He resigned and accepted a position under the American Board in Bangalore, India, where the climate is favorable to his state of health. Expressions of deep sorrow were made at the con- vention in Toronto, but he could n(jt be changed in his purpose. At this farewell meeting; very affecting addresses were made and replies given quite as effective. A beautiful portrait of brother McLaurin, painted by Brother C. Hjitch, was unveiled and now hangs in the College chapel. Thus, for the third time our dear brother left his church, liome and gave himself to the Foreign Mission work in India. A portrait of Mrs. McLaurin and youngest child was also painted Ijy Mr. Hatch and sent after them to India as a present from her friends^ here. 122 THE HISTORY OF THE mh ^ (ft Hi' November 18th, the deacons' report referred to seating of students, appointing more ushers and the holding of special services, all of which were dealt with. Brother R. G. Sawtell was appointed to see that notices of our church services are put in town papers. Brethren Downs and Tegart were added to the staff of ushers. R. W. Sawtell reported the action of the committee on socials and entertainments (1) A public reading in the town hall under the auspices of the Young People's Society. (2) The anniver- sary sermons to be preached by Rev. Ira Smith of London, on 20th of December. (3) A sacred concert by the choir, under the leadership of Mr. Sturgis on Monday evening, December 21st. (4) New Year's eve. suggested as a fitting time for the S. S. cantata. — Report was adopted. Sabbath, November 20th, candidates were baptized in the evening. December IGth, several candidates received for baptism. Deacon Karn reported that the choir could not give the concert proposed and it was decided to hold a social on the 21st, the proceeds of which to be given to the choir fund. Sabbath, January 3rd, 1892, the hand of fellowship was ex- tended to 12 new members. January 13th, R. W. Sawtell reported on the part of the music committee that in consequence of circumstances preventing the concert intended to be given by the choir according to agreement with the leader, there was a deficit which the committee could not meet and the principle of paying by voluntary contributions, he feared, would have to be abandoned. The question was referred to the deacons and music committee. January llrth. the death of Brother Cull is here recorded and a reference may be made to the fact that his godly life was a worthy example for emulation. He, for twenty years, was a faithful caretaker at the College here and by economy was en- abled to give liljerally to this church towards its support for over 30 years, and even on his death bed he remembered the FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 123 of of institutions which wpre entwined around his heart and left small contributions to thit church, the Grande Ligne Mission, the Home and Foreign Mission Societies and the balance of his little earnings to a friend. January 20th, the deacons' report recommended that the church assume the payment of the salary of Miss McDowell and continue Miss Grithth's services for tlie present, and that a tea meeting be held at an early date to pi'ovide funds for the deficit referred to by the committee. — Report adopted and matter re ferred to the ladies, committee on church work. January 27th, the ladies' committee reported favorably of the suggestion of a tea meeting and asked for a committee of brethren to assist in the undertaking. — Report adopted and a oommittee appointed. January 29th, the death of our dear brother, W. H. Huston, is here recorded. He had been a member of this church only 2 or 3 years but his genial manner and Christ-like disposition for doing good endeared him to all who knew liim. His desire to make the College a success in training "his boys for life-work" so largely prevailed that it might be truly said that "he died of over work." That it was a denominational loss was exempli- fied by the large attendance from all over the land at the me- morial services held at the College prior to committing his re- mains to its last resting place in the Baptist cemetery in this town. Thus was added the last of a large numl)er of honored teachers of that school who gave their lives to the cause they espoused for Christ's sake. While referring to this subject it should be stated that the successor to Brother Huston in the principalship of the College is our esteemed brother, Joseph I Bates, whose faithful work and experience for 20 years were duly appreciated by the governors of McMaster University in the appointment made. February 17th, in the absence of the pastor Brother Halli- burton occupied the chair. Brother McKee reported progress in reference to the tea meeting, also read the treasurer's report for the quarter. i^' it' H 124 THE HISTORY OF THE The recommendation of the de^icons to appoint Mr. T. A. Mc- Cleneghan choir leader was confirmed It was resolved that two more deacons be appointed at the next regular meeting. March 16th. Regular monthly meeting. The treasurer report- ed the proceeds of the teameeting to be $110. Brethren J. I. Bates and T. C.Mayberry were elected deacons in the usual manner. R. W. Sawtell reported that after long and serious consider- ation he had attempted the proposed history of the church and now suggested that a social be held on the seventieth anniver- sary of the organization of the church, April 22nd, and that part of the programme be the reading of portions of said history for the criticism of the church with a view to its publication. This was adopted and a committee appointed to carry out the arrangement. April 6th, special church meeting according to notice. Bro. Beardsall introduced the question of the method of contributing to all denominational objects. After a long discussion on a resolution to raise everything by the envelope plan it was laid upon the table, and the following appointed to consider the matter and bring in a report, viz: R. G. Sawtell, Karn, Beard- sail, Dickson, Mayberry and Bates. April 22nd, 1892, a social was held on this seventieth anni- versary when a large number was present. The programme con- sisted of singing and the reading of the introductory chapters of the history of the church by the writer. After the recess Brother McKechnie moved, seconded by Brother Beardsall that Brother Sawteil be urged to proceed with tlie history to the present time and that the church assume the publication of the same. The resolution was passed and thus endeth the record to date. It might be added in conclusion that in no period in the history of the church has it manifested greater zeal for the sal- vation of p^^^, greater liberality in giving or greater unity in all depar ^ i. v of church work. 6lt»> i llRST BAPTIST CIIUKCII. 1?5 The church is permeated with the Mission spirit. How could it be otherwise, with the continued influence of such men as Father Bates, Dr. Fyfe, John McLaurin, A. V. Timpany and the Bates family, and others who have gone out from this church to the Foreign field ? The greatest harmony prevails with the Oxford street off spring to which there has been dismissed nearly eighty of our actual members. This, however, has been one of the events "that scattereth yet increaseth," for our meml)ership is nearly as large as before. Our gifts to the treasury are yearly increas- ing and another increase of two hundred dollars has been made to our pastor's salary. For all these and the unenumerated blessings we ascribe to the "God of all grace," glory; honor and grateful adoration. THE END