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1994.Presbyterian Church
AUBURN, N. Y.
Pastorate of Rev. Charles Hawley, D. D.
1857-1882.TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY
OF THE
PASTORATE
REV. CHAS. HAWLEY, D. D.,
WITH THE
First Presbyterian Church,
OF AUBURN, N. Y.
1857-1882.
AUBURN, N. Y.
KNAPP, P,ECK & THOMSON, BOOK AND JOB PRINTERS.
1883.
ICONTENTS
Page.
PRELIMINARY PROCEEDINGS, ------	5-8
RECEPTION,................. -	9-37
POEM.—Rev. Samuel W. Duffield,...........38
“	Mrs. (Rev.) George D. Feld, -	-	-	-	-	39-40
“	Rev. Lansing Porter,................41-42
CONGRATULATORY LETTERS,	-	-	43-70
OFFICIAL ACTION, --------- 71-72
ANNIVERSARY SERMON.—By the Pastor,	-	73-82PRELIMINARY PROCEEDINGS.
An informal meeting of members of the congregation of the
First Church in Auburn, was held in the parlors of Mrs. C. P.
Underwood on the evening of October 13th, 1882, to take coun-
sel concerning the observance of the 25th anniversary of Doctor
Hawley’s pastorate. After some conversation it was concluded
that another meeting should be called to assemble one week
later in the same place, and to comprise a full representation of
the congregation.
At the meeting called as above stated, held October 20, 1882,
the following officers were elected:
Prof. M. L. Browne, Chairman.
Mr. Charles E. Thorne, Secretary.
Mr. Edward H. Avery, Treasurer.
It was resolved that the anniversary should be celebrated in
the church on Friday evening November 3; and that there
should be a congratulatory address from a person selected to
represent the church and congregation, also other addresses
from persons representing other evangelical churches in Auburn,
and the Theological Seminary; and also an address from a rep-
resentative of the citizens, friends and neighbors of the Pastor;
and that immediately following the above named exercised in
the church, an entertainment should be provided in the chapel.
It was further resolved, that such contributions as might be
offered, should be presented to the pastor as a testimonial. The
following committee were appointed :
On Exercises—Josiah Letchworth, Lewis E. Lyon, James R
Cox.
On Invitation—Prof. Anson J. Upson, D. D., Prof. Ransom
B. Welch, D. D., Dr. Richard Steel, Dr. Sylvester Willard,
Prof. Mortimer L. Browne, Josiah Letch wor,th.
#6
On Testimonial—John H. Osborne, Byron C. Smith, Charles
P. Mosher, Willard E. Case, Joseph N. Steel.
On motion, the ladies of the congregation were requested to
meet at*an early day and make such arrangements as they
might deem proper for the entertainment.
Adjourned.
CHARLES E. THORNE, Sec'y.
Subsequently'the following committees were appointed by the
ladies of the congregation:
Reception Committee—Dr. and Mrs. S. Willard, Dr. and Mrs.
Richard Steel, Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Woodruff, Mr. and Mrs. Ed-
ward C. Selover, Abijah Fitch, Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Steel, Mrs.
Daniel Hewson, Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Dec, Mr. and Mrs. M. L.
Browne, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis E. Lyon, Mr. and Mrs. E. H.
Avery, Mr. and Mrs. Byron C. Smith, Mr. and Mrs. Lansing
Porter, Mr. and Mrs. James G. Knapp, Mr. and Mrs. E. B. Jones,
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. E. Hughitt, Mr. and Mrs. John S. Fowler,
Mr. and Mrs. F. H. Griswold, Mr. and Mrs. Warren Crocker,
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis R. Alward, Mr. and Mrs. R H. Bloom,
Mr. and Mrs. Horace T. Cook, Mr. and Mrs. Horace Lockwood,
Mrs. C. P. Underwood, Mrs. C. H. Merriman, Mr. and Mrs. D.
W. Adams, Mr. and Mrs. James Hyde.
Decoration Committee—Mr. and Mrs. F. H. Griswold, Miss
Carrie Willard, Miss Hattie Edson, Mr. and Mrs. Willard Case,
Miss Ella L. Smith, Josiah Letchwrorth.
Committee on Refreshments—Miss Lizzie Keeler, Miss Helen
Tillotson, Miss Lue Brooks, Miss Ella Smith,Miss Hattie Adams,
Miss Fannie Elliott, Miss Minnie Brinkerhoff, Miss Kittie
Browne, Miss Stella Wasson, Miss Lottie Adams.
Tabte Committee—Mrs. John H. Osborne, Mrs. Jas. R Cox, Mr.
and Mrs. Charles E. Thorne, Mrs. Arthur E. Slocum, Mrs. T. P.
Case, Miss Laura Fowler, Mrs. E. D. Woodruff, Mrs. Jpsiah
Letchworth, Dr. and Mrs. W. S. Cheesman, Miss Jenny Cox,
Mrs. E. A. Woodin, Henry Keeler and Woolsey R. Hopkins.
Coffee Committee—Mrs. John Fowler, Mrs. H. Brooks, Mrs.
George Merritt, Mrs. D. W. Adams, Mrs. John Page, Mrs. D.
Crosmari, Mrs. S. Collins Griswold.
?•CIRCULAR OF TESTIMONIAL COMMITTEE.
AUBURN, N. Y., October 26, 1882.
To the Members of the First Presbyterian Society'.
At a conference held on Friday evening, October 20, of a number of the
congregation of the First Presbyterian Church, it was Resolved that some fitting
notice should be taken of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the pastorate of Rev.
Dr. Hawley. After some deliberation as to the best method of such recogni-
tion, it was unanimously concluded that there should be a public reception given
to our Pastor, at the Church, on the evening of November 3rd ; and it was fur-
ther resolved that a testimonial should be made for him, contributed from the
offerings of all the congregation.
It may be truly said of our beloved pastor , that his whole life has been given
to this church and people ; that here he has watched, during the twenty-five
choicest years, of his life, for the souls for which he is to give account ; and in
the time of the Final Harvest, it must be from among this people of his charge
that he will bring his sheaves before the Lord of the Harvest.
How faithfully he has labored during this time, in fullest exercise of all the
abilities and grace bestowed upon him, you and all others of his flock are this
day the willing and grateful witnesses ; with what tenderness and love he has
ministered to us in all phases of our church and home life, “ rejoicing with
them that rejoice, and weeping with them that weep,” you, to whom his presence
has been cheer and blessing, and his words heavenly comfort, can best testify.
It would be a gratifying, yet too great a task to allude to the long record of
his ministrations to this people in times of sorrow and darkness, or even to
recount the many triumphs of God’s grace in the conversion of souls, through
the fidelity of His servant.
During the dark times of Rebellion, our pulpit gave forth no uncertain
voice, while patriots were mustering for the battle ; and when peace with high
prosperity returned, the fair fabric of our church arose under the influence of
his wise and stirring counsel.
He is among us to-day, with “ eye undimmed, and natural force unabated,”
presenting to us the example, beautifully set forth by the Psalmist, of that man
whose “ delight is in the law of the Lord, meditating therein day and night ;
like a tree with unwithering leaf, planted by the rivers of water, bringing forth
his fruit in due season.”
Cherishing these memories of our prosperous past, and with devout gratitude
to our Heavenly Father for all He has done for us, it is proposed that in observ-8
ance of this twenty fifth anniversary of our pastors service, all our people
should gather at the church at the time above named, for a season of pleasant
intercourse and congratulation ; and you are cordially invited to be present.
The exercises will be according to the enclosed programme.
With a view* also of affording an opportunity to contribute to the testimonial,
the enclosed envelope is sent in the hope that every one will give—little or
much—according to his ability. As this is intended as a general offering from
us as a congregation, no writing, name or mark need accompany the sum enclosed,
The committee will be in readiness at the Chapel on the evening of the recep-
tion to receive the contributions in a drop-box provided for the purpose, which
will be opened and the contents summed up at the close of the evening.*
Should any one desire to give who cannot be present there, this envelope may be
handed to any member of the undersigned committee in the assurance that the
name and amount will be kept secret, if desired. Your hearty co-operation in
the plan and purpose of this Re-union is earnestly solicited.
JOHN H. OSBORNE,
BYRON C. SMITH,
CHARLES P. MOSHER,
WILLARD E CASE,
JOSEPH N. STEEL,
Committee.
Aggregated twelve hundred dollars.RECEPTION.
In these days of change, it is not often that we find one pas-
tor serving acceptably for the period of a quarter of a century
the charge to which he'was called at the beginning of that
period. The more honor, then, be given to the Rev. Charles
Hawley, D. D., who for the past twenty-five years, has gone in
and out before his people. It was to do him honor that a com-
mittee of his parishoners arranged for a silver wedding anni-
versary celebration, and it was in furtherance of this intention
that one of the largest audiences ever gathered within its walls
assembled last evening in the noble edifice at the corner of
North and Franklin streets.
Upon entering the church', all were attracted by the floral
decorations which, while not too elaborate, were in admirable
taste. The front of the pulpit was adorned with a profusion of
rare plants and the communion table and baptismal font were
laden with floral treasures. The facade of the organ gallery
was hidden by an evergreen ground on which stood out the
silvered figures, “ 1857-1882.” In the gallery also, were a num-
ber of growing plants. The large flowering plant which was
placed directly in front of the desk, was a magnificent eucharus
from the conservatory of Josiah Letchworth, and contained 150
blossoms. Jt is a very rare and valuable species.
During the evening the following gentlemen occupied seats
upon the platform: Rev. Drs. ! Charles Hawley, H. A. Nelson,
John Brainard, A. J. Upson, E. A. Huntington, S. M. Hopkins,
R. B. Welch, W. J. Beecher, Revs. Wm. H. Allbright, Wm.
Searls and F. L. Wilkins, and Prof. M. L. Browne.
[This report of the reception is taken from the Auburn Daily Advertiser of Nov. 4,1882.]
10
The exercises began promptly at seven o’clock, with an organ
voluntary by Prof. I. Y. Flagler, after which Mrs. Salter, of
Syracuse, gave a vocal solo, “The Resurrection.” Rev. A.
J. Upson, D. D., LL.D., Professor of Sacred Rhetoric and Pas-
toral Theology in Auburn Theological Seminary, read from the
Scriptures the 103d Psalm, and Rev. Ransom B. Welch, D. D.
UL.D., Professor of Christian Theology, offered prayer as fol-
lows :
PRAYER
Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name,
thou hast been our dwelling place and the dwelling place of
thy children in all generations. Thou art our God and we
would bless thee ; our Father’s God,‘and we would exalt thee.
We enter into thy gates with thanksgiving, and into thy courts
with praise. We would be thankful and bless thy name, for
thou art good. Thy mercy is everlasting, and thy truth en-
dureth unto all generations. We adore thee as the source of
life and of light. Thou dost walk in the midst of thy churches
as golden candlesticks reflecting .the light of life; and thou
dost uphold thy ministers as stars in thy right hand, making
them a flame of fire.
We thank thee that thou hast brought us to this glad hour,
this twenty-fifth anniversary of the pastorate of this, thy servant,
over this thy church. We thank thee for the hallowed associ-
ations connected with this pastorate; for the large success
which thou hast vouchsafed ; for the harmony which has pre-
vailed ; for the consecration of so many noble men and women
as fellow helpers in the gospel; for the souls born here unto,
everlasting life; for this company of Christians walking in the
fellowship of the Lord, in the unity of the Spirit; we thank
thee for these aged disciples whose hoary heads are crowns of
glory found in the way of righteousness ; wTe thank thee for the
saintly company of the departed, alreadj^ gone to be with Christ,
who surround us as a cloud of witnesses; we thank thee for
the consolations of the gospel which have here beenjministered
to the sorrowing, the sick, the dying; for the work of benevo-lence which has here been wrought on behalf of those at home
and those abroad.
May these blessed days of the past be but precursors of the
better days in store for this honored pastor and this church of
his life-labor and love. To this end, wilt thou, Oh God, restore
unto him and unto them the joys of thy salvation, and uphold
them by thy free Spirit May the pleasure of the Lord greatly
prosper in their hands. May thy work appear unto thy serv-
ants, and thy glory unto their children. Let the beauty of the
Lord our God be upon them ; «and establish thou the work of
their hands upon them ; yea, the work of their hands establish
thou it. Let the Lord be magnified who hast had pleasure in
the prosperity of thy servant. Do good in thy good pleasure
unto Zion, here and everywhere. Build thou the walls of Jeru-
salem. Help us to remember that thy mercy, oh Lord, is from
everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear thee, and thy
righteousness unto children’s children; to such as keep thy cov-
enant, and to those that remember thy commandments to do
them. Help us, each and all, with renewed consecration from
this good hour to devote ourselves to thy service. May we sow
beside all waters, going forth if need be with weeping, yet with
the divine assurance that we shall doubtless return again with
rejoicing bringing our sheaves with us, when they that sow and
they that reap shall rejoice together before God. Thus work-
ing together with thee and for thee, oh Divine Kedeemer, may
we help to hasten the final triumph of thy kingdom, when thy
name shall be honored and adored in all the earth; when the
kingdoms of this world shall become the kingdoms of our Lord
and of his Christ, and the world shall know and rejoice in the
blessed truth that the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. Hear
thou, oh Lord, our prayer. Bless to us these hours of pleasant
communion. May all things be begun, continued and ended in
God, and thus glorify thy great name. And unto the King
eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and
glory forever and ever. Amen.
After a second exquisitely rendered soprano solo by Mrs.12
Slater, u There’s a Green Hill Far Away,” Dr. Upson said that
nothing could be more appropriate than that the first words of
congratulation, on this occasion, should come from the church
itself. And no one could more appropriately represent this
church, than one of its officers, Prof. M. L. Browne, principal
of the Young Ladies Institute. Prof. Browne spoke as follows:
THE CONGRATULATORY ADDRESS.
Rev. Dr. Hawley:
This evening terminates a unique and important period in
the history of this church. It also marks an event of such sig-
nificance to yourself, as to render fitting some suitable expres-
sion from this people, in reference to your pastorate of twenty-
five years’ duration.
There are periods in the history of churches, as in personal
experiences, not to be measured by years alone, but by the reach
and value of their relations and their influences ; and so diffi-
cult of commemoration, as to find their best.observance in their
simple narrative.
Your pastorate has exceeded one-third of the entire period
since this church was formed; and the accessions to its mem-
bership during this time, have been nearly one-third of its
whole number from the beginning.
Five revivals have characterized this ministry, adding 330 to
its membership, on profession of theii\faith in Christ.
The current contributions to benevolence, outside of special
objects, have exceeded $85,000; and the increase of the last
ten years over the ten preceding, has been over 100 per cent.
Meantime, nearly $135,000 have been contributed by this
church to the Auburn Theological Seminary, besides no incon-
siderable aid to Calvary church of this city. '
In addition to all these objects, this house of worship has
been erected, at a cost of $140,000.
During the past twenty-five years, over sixty pastoral changes
have occurred in this city; and not a member of Cayuga pres-
bytery, and only three pastors in central and western New
York occupy, the same pulpits now as then.
*13
The few statistics thus collated are honorable alike to pastor
and to people.
The period covered by your ministry has been eventful for
the nation. The most difficult problems in human government
have demanded a solution, and have been answered, as we
trust, for ages yet to come. The long impending and irrepres-
sible conflict between slavery and human freedom, indirectly
brought you to this pastorate. Our first sacrifice for the nation
was this vacant pulpit—that Missouri might be saved to the
Union, and redeemed from the guilt of human bondage by vol-
untary emancipation. Your prompt and patriotic. utterances
during the long years of our civil war, and the ready and loyal
responses of this church to every demand of the nation, are
among our memorable records.
It is a gratifying recollection that the first enlisted regiment
from this vicinity came to the house of God, to receive a part-
ing benediction at your hands; counting not their lives dear to
them, if the nation might live, and not die. Ho^r vividly we
recall the sadness and the high resolve on each reverent face,
when in the words of the commander of Israel against the Am-
monites, you exhorted them to “Be strong, and of good cour-
age/’ and to “ play the men for our people, and the cities of our
God.”
Twice has this church been darkened with the drapery of
grief, at the tragic death of the chief magistrate of this nation.
How great the guilt of slavery, requiring the sacrifice of thou-
sands of our noblest sons and millions of our treasure ; and de-
manding for its final expiation, the martyr death of the beloved
Lincoln ! How deep and almost hopeless, was the corruption
of our Civil Service, when its purification could only come
through the blood of the revered and lamented Garfield—both
offerings, like those of God’s ancient people," “ Without spot or
blemish.”
Your pastorate has thus been marked by unparalleled events
in the history of this republic. But the dark clouds of war
have rolled away, every State is now loyal to the Union, the14
financial honor of the nation has been redeemed, and the proper
administration of civil affairs will soon be the realization of
the high ideal of Christian statesmen.
We are glad to record our high appreciation of the intellect-
ual ability that has characterized your Sabbath ministrations.
This is a thinking age, irreverent towards old ideas, and chal-
lenging accepted, truth for evidence that it is truth; rather than
venerated error, or mere prejudiced belief. The press is In
sharp competition with the pulpit. Its daily issues are vitalized
with the freshest thoughts of the ablest pens, and with the re-
sults of the latest and most exhaustive research in every de-
partment of human knowledge. It is the educating force of
the nation; and in exercising its legitimate functions, dissemi-
nates human thought both for and against the truth.
The vital doctrines of Christianity are less grossly assailed to-
day than in the past, but in more dangerous forms, under the
guise of irresistible scientific deductions. The blasphemies of Vol-
taire and Ingersoll carry with them their own antidote ; but when
men of conceded ability in new and special lines of research,
declare matter eternal and supremely potential, and God un-
knowable, and that the conclusions as to a .future life are only
drawn from vague and contradictory probabilities, then the
ministry must not only add to its faith virtue, but to virtue
knowledge.
How fully this pulpit has been kept abreast of current lines
of thought, exposing the weak foundations of modern infidelity,
its sophistical reasonings and its illogical conclusions, and how
ably the truth of God has been maintained against every form
of insidious error, is well known to this church and commu-
nity.
This long service cannot have been wholly devoid of difficul-
ties or of anxieties. So large a church has necessarily com-
prised different elements, and with somewhat divergent views
as to measures and methods of church work; yet each and all
have been loyal to duty, sacrificing preferences to a spirit of
harmony. The older generation has still lingered under the15
spell of the gifted Lansing, and the inexorable logic of Finney
and of Hopkins, tempered by the wise moderation, the organiz-
ing force, and the symmetrical strength of your immediate pre-
decessor. With true spiritual zeal, it has longed for the Pente-
costal seasons of former days, and has not been able to believe
that those tidal waves of revival power were visibly yielding to .
agencies less phenomenal, and accompanied by a different type*
of religious experience. It is a happy reflection that this influ-
ence from the past has continually leavened the more conserv-
ative element, and has so kept alive the spiritual fire of this
church, that by the ordinary means of grace and occasional
evangelistic effort, it has steadily maintained its growth of for-
mer years.
Of your more private relations to this people, I may not
speak with freedom, on this public occasion. The sweet and
healing sympathy that has stolen away the sharpness of bitter
sorrows, the genial and delicate friendship which has heightened
the joys of many a household, and the tender and charitable
ministrations at the burial of those who have left the church on
earth for the church in Heaven—all these are among your sacred
and private legacies to this people. But I may not longer in-
dulge in these reminiscences. There are those to follow who
will speak in more fitting terms of your relations to this com-
munity, and to your more general service in the kingdom of
our Lord Jesus Christ. It only /remains for me, in behalf of
this church and congregation, to extend to you hearty congratu-
lations on your completion of a quarter of a century’s service
in this pastorate ; and their hope and expectation that you will
for many years be spared to break unto them the Bread of Life.
You need not to be reminded that many who greeted your
coming to this pulpit, have already gone to the ministry of the
Great Head of the church. Elders Clary, Underwood, Sey-
mour, Goss, Griswold, Sartwell, Terrill and Hewson; and
Deacons Williams and Putnam, and Merriman of the Trustees,
are all recalled to-night, and their individual gifts and graces
held in still more loving remembrance.16
But the sacred dead yet speak to us in visible representation.
That baptismal font, this communion table, these memorial
chairs and windows, and the “Sessional Fund for the Lord’s
Poor,”—as well as this beautiful temple, in whose erection they
bore such honorable part, all testify to their love for this com-
munion.
There are those still among us, who have already passed the
appointed boundary of human life. They have long been
standard bearers in this church, wise in counsel, fervent in spirit,
always abounding in the work of the Lord. While they still
frequent this earthly sanctuary, may they find such strength
and comfort in the preached word, and in the tenderness of
pastoral ministrations, that your frequent prayer, “ may their
last days be their best days,” shall thus have abundant answer.
As we shall severally be privileged to press your hand to-
night, may it be the mutual pledge and seal of a new and better
consecration of both pastor and people to the service of Him
who hath redeemed us by His own precious blood; and thus
“ shall the glory of this latter house be greater than the former.”
Dr. Upson said that a very large number of letters had been
received in response to invitations sent out by the committee,
but it was obviously impracticable to read even a portion of
them.' He announced however, that the committee would
probably have them published.
In introducing the former pastor of the church, the Rev. H.
A. Nelson, D. D., now of Geneva, Dr. Upson said in substance,
that Dr. Nelson’s associations with this congregation are so
pleasant and have become so sacred, that he is always most
cordially welcomed to this pulpit and in all the homes repre-
sented here. Very seldom is a predecessor in his full strength
and vigor permitted to greet his successor at the expiration of
twenty-five years.
DR. NELSON’S REMARKS.
Thirty-six years ago this church had existed less than thirty-
six years. It had had three pastors besides its founder. Two17
of them then still survived, venerable, gbdly, beloved men, who,
as long as they lived, were always welcome in this pulpit and
in these homes. This latter period of thirty :six years is covered
by the ministry of the two pastors who now survive and are
present.
The session of this church thirty-six years ago consisted (be-
sides its youthful pastor) of the following elders:—Richard
Steel, James S. Seymour, Abijah Fitch, J. S. Bartlett, Joseph
Hyde, Horace Hotchkiss and Jedediah Darrow. Of these Rich-
ard Steel and Abijah Fitch are still with you ; their heads were
white thirty-six years ago. Verily “ the hoary head is a crown
of glory, when it is found in the way of righteousness.”
The deacons of this church, thirty-six years ago, were Palmer
Holley, Thomas M. Hunt, Albert Walcott, Daniel Hewson, H.
H. Cooley and George Crocker.
To this number of deacons were added, in the ten following
years: Geo. Crocker, I. F. Terrill, Chas. Hall, F. L. Griswold,
A. H. Goss, Stephen Ball, Joseph G. Downer, Thomas B. Hud-
son, Chas. A. Lee, Isaac Cooper, Eliphalet F. Putnam and Hen-
ry J. Sartwell.
Within the same ten years there were added to the session,
Elders Sylvester Willard, Joseph Clary, Henry H. Cooley,
Daniel Hewson, Thomas M. Hunt, Geo. Crocker, Israel F. Ter-
rill, Harmon Woodruff, F. L. Griswold, James Hyde and Geo.
Underwood.
Of these Sylvester Willard, Harmon Woodruff, James Hyde
and George Crocker now survive.
Standing here to-night, appreciating as highly as any the
beauty of this sacred edifice, I see not less distinctly the dear
old building which it has replaced, and which to me must al-
ways be the most beautiful ever built by human hands. I seem
now to be standing in its pulpit, looking around upon its pure
whiteness, and its abundant and elaborate carving, and in its
pews I see many faces not visible now to bodily eyes. Looking
down on my right, across the pew in which are the faces dearest
to me, I see that godly, honest face which good Mrs. Murrey18
did not commend too highly when she said, “.It does me more
good to go to a prayer meeting and just look at Deacon Hunt,
than it does to hear some men speak,” and whose character Dr.
Dickinson did not too highly praise, when he called him “my
honest merchant.”
In the pew next beyond I see the kind, motherly face of one
who is still living in Auburn, but whom you already reckon
among those whose faces you will see here no more. On a sum-
mer morning of 1854, I rose at early dawn from my sorrowful
bed, and going softly into the parlor was surprised to find that
the long walk from her home had not prevented her from being
there before me, watching beside my beautiful dead boy. Never
can Mrs. Woodruff be forgotten in my home. Turning the
corner of the building, in the next pew I see Mr. Seymour, sit-
ting according to his custom, with his hand covering his eyes,
yet giving closest attention, and now and then showing his
wakeful alertness by that characteristic “a he’em” which I am
sure I should have recognized if I had heard it in China. In
the same pew is the strong, manly face of C. H. Merriman, a
face which on the Sabbaths of ten years I habitually saw wear-
ing a look of as earnest and solemn attention as I ever saw on a
human face.
A little beyond I see the grave, modest and serious face of
Isaac Selover. Directly in front of the pulpit sit Mr. and Mrs.
Eleazer Hills. They were the first persons who called on me
after my installation—the first to whom I ever spoke the words
“ my people.” When they closed that call, I remember how
considerately Mr. Hills charged me, in my pastoral visitation, to
neglect, if need were, people in his own social position, in order
that no lowly or obscure one might feel neglected. The last
official act of my pastoral life here was the burial of Eleazer
Hills. You know how recently and how suddenly his only son
has gone to him, from the side of his only daughter. “Blessed
are the dead who die in the Lord.”
In the next of those old square pews, gravely and reverently
sit Mr. and Mrs. Erastus Case, with their children and grand-
children.19
Looking up the middle aisle, I see ihe faces of George Un-
derwood and F. L. Griswold, faces in which manly strength is
veiled with almost feminine modesty. I see the faces of kindred
expression, of C. P. Williams, H. H. Cooley, A. H. Goss, I. F.
Terrill, H. J. Sartwell, E. F. Putnam, and Daniel Hewson.
Around-on my left, in his corner pew, I see the tall figure of
J. H. Hardenbergh, another such man as T. M. Hunt, whose
golden silence was more eloquent than speech. In the pew
nearer the pulpit sits grave, white-haired Dr. Clary, beside him
that remarkable woman, whose great, wise motherliness blessed
so many young women, her pupils, before it came to bless Dr.
Clary’s home and his children. Yes, and I even remember the
face of Mrs. Clary’s mother in that pew. I see also Mrs. Leon-
ard, Mrs. Parsons, Mrs. Murrey, two Mrs. Gibsons, sweet Sarah
Hewson and Emma Gibson, Emma Selover, and Julia Lindsley.
I know not how many more strong men and grave matrons,
my helpers in the gospel then, and whose children are filling
their places now. I know not how many more fair maidens
whose youthful bloom faded to the beautiful paleness of con-
sumption. I know not how many sweet infant faces, that
smiled at me at the baptismal font, and that I afterwards saw
white and lovely in their cradle coffins.
“ Thus the forms of the departed
Enter at the open door,
The beloved, the true-hearted
Come and sit with you once more.
f And with them that Being beauteous,
Who unto my youth was given,
More than all things else to love me,
And is now a saint in heaven.”
Does it seem to any, that with such reminiscences as these, I
bring a cloud over this scene ? To me it is “ a great cloud
of witnesses, compassing us about ” with their own celestial
brightness. To me it is a cloud that casts no shadow down-
ward. It is full of light, like the cloud over Olivet into which
the disciples saw the Lord disappear.20
With such memories of one precious decade, with what arith-
metic shall I multiply them, to fill- this silver sphere of pastoral
happiness in which my brother still abides ?
There are others here more competent than I, by continuous
observation, to testify how he has gone, out and in among you,
* lo! these five and twenty years. But there is one testimony
which it behooves me personally to give, of which I am the only
competent witness. I testify to the exceeding generosity, I will
say the magnanimity with which he has always welcomed, me,
whenever I have been able to be here, to all that it is possible
for me here to enjoy. So abundant has ever been his brother-
liness, that he has scarcely let me feel that he was my successor
. in a sphere from which I had gone away. Bather has he made
it seem as if we were colleagues standing shoulder to shoulder
v in the work, and sharing alike in the joys of this precious pas-
torate.
My dear brother, I heartily pray God that you may continue
as long as you live, with this people of whom you will surely
join me in testifying that their love to their pastor is “ wonder-
ful, passing the love of women.” I pray God to grant to you
and me the continuance of this blessed fellowship a few more
years: and then,
“ Our shares of duty decently fulfilled,
May sofne disease not tardy to perform
It’s destined office, yet with gentle stroke,
Dismiss us weary to a safe retreat,
Beneath the turf we have so often trod,”
for, when these devout men shall have laid our bodies there, we,
“ absent from the body shall be present with the Lord.”
Next to be introduced was Rev. Samuel M. Hopkins, D. D.,
senior professor in the Theological Seminary, who occupies the
chair of Ecclesiastical History and Church Polity. Dr. Upson
said: “It is very pleasant for many of us here to-night to
remember and recognize th'e obligations of the Auburn Theo-
logical Seminary to this church. The Seminary is very greatly
indebted to this congregation and to its pastor, for essential aid.21
They have greatly contributed in many ways to its prosperity,
and success. We are glad to have the Seminary represented on
this occasion by our brilliant Senior Professor.
REMARKS OF PROF. HOPKINS.
It has always been my opinion—an opinion which. I have
commonly expressed to my younger brethren when they have
called upon me for advice, that a Presbyterian minister is en-
titled in the course of his natural life, to about three changes or
three separate locations. I have said to them, do not be too nice or
scrupulous about your first parish. Take whatever offers.' They
may be a poor people, but if so they have a right to have the
gospel preached unto them. The place may be small, but it
will give you room to practice and grow in. You can write out
Professor Welch’s systematic divinity in a course of doctrinal
sermons. You can apply Professor Upson’s homiletical princi-
ples till you know just how to create a sermon upon the ribs of
death. You can review your notes on the Hebrew and the
Greek, your higher and your lower criticism. You can live
there, say five years. By that time you will be inspired with a
noble ambition to figure on a larger scene. It will be manifest-
ly improper to hide your light any longer under so small a
bushel. t You will be quite justified in accepting a call to some
thriving village or smart country town.
Here, in this second location you ought to stay about ten
years. You will develope and grow up towards your possibil-
ities. You will have gained yaluable experience. You will be
moderator of the Presbytery. One of your sermons will have
been printed in the village newspaper with introductory remarks
by the editor. By the end of that time you will be, I suppose,
near forty years of age.. Some young growing city or market
town, looking about for a wide-awake powerful preacher, will
demand your services, and you will make your third and I hope
last remove, till you move into the fine new rural cemetery.
You will now come to be known as a rising man in the church.
You will be wanted to deliver addresses at young ladies semi-
naries, and college commencements. Some college will confer22
.the “Dedecus” on you; you can stay here as long as St. Peter
did in Rome; which according to the story, was twenty-five
years. Now, if this happens to correspond to Dr. Hawley’s ex-
perience, I cannot help it. I protest I did not copy it from him,
but drew the picture entirely from high abstract a priori intui-
tions. But now in order to this quarter of a century pastorate,
there are several conditions required on the part of the man
himself, and some on the part of the people. In the first place
he must be a man of good fair talents and have a good gift of
utterance—a man who knows how to think and write, and speak
what he has written. I do not stipulate for genius or eloquence.
Heaven help us all if those gifts were required! We cannot all
be John Halls or Theodore L. Cuylers. Such ice cream and
angels’ food are too expensive luxuries for ordinary congrega-
tions ; and perhaps indeed they are not best for all. Good gos-
pel brown bread and spiritual pork and beans, are better for the
average Christian stomach. Second: lie must be an industrious
man ; one who is willing to work hard, and will not offer to
the Lord, or to the Lord’s people that which cost him naught.
He will keep his mind fresh by communion with the great minds
of the past ages, and the eloquence of sound thought and lib-
eral sympathies, will irradiate all he says. And thirdly, he
must be a man of genial temper; of kindly affection ; one who
is in sympathy with everything that is good in the community
where he lives; who is looked for at bier and bridal, because he
knows how to rejoice with them that rejoice, and weep with
them that weep.
Now, I say again, that if this description happens to corres-
pond with the facts in the character of our friend I can’t help
it. It is all a matter of pure speculation, but if he should hap-
pen to be such a man as this, why, I do not think it is at all
strange that his people should have hung on to him for twenty-
five years. In order to sueh a consummation some things also
are required on the part of the people. First: They must be
an intelligent people, and know what good preaching is. Sec-
ond : They must be a generous and kindly people, and give23
their minister everything that is necessary to his comfort and
usefulness. Thirdly: They must be a considerate people.
They must not imagine their minister is made out of cast iron.
If all these conditions are met I don’t see but'Dr. Hawley may
go on and preach twenty-five years more as well as he has done
for twenty-five years past.
Dr. Upson was again the spokesman in the introduction of
Rev. John Brainard, D. D., the beloved rector of St. Peter’s
church, whose term of service in this one charge, is next to Dr.
Hawley’s, the longest of our city pastors. Dr. Upson alluded to
the fact that however Christians may differ in their organization
and in their forms and methods of service, we gladly recognize
in each other the family likeness. We are one in our allegiance
to our common Lord. We would be one family in Christ Je-
sus. We all subscribe to that ancient symbol, the Apostles’
creed. We all believe not only in “ the forgiveness of sins, the
resurrection of the body and the life everlasting,” but also in
“ the communion of saints.”
REMARKS BY DR. BRAINARD.
If any man should ask, “ What mean ye by this service?”
the answer would, I know, be ready on every lip. It is a ser-
vice of peculiar power and depth of meaning. A Christian con-
gregation desires to express its thankfulness to the Giver of
every gift, that he has permitted them to enjoy the ministrations
of their pastor, Dr. Hawley, for so long a period, and Dr. Haw:
ley, with his usual benignity of spirit, is here to receive the con-
gratulations of his people, neighbors and clerical brethren. It
is an occasion never to be forgotten. Such a prolongation of
the pastoral tie rarely happens in this changing world; it has
never happened in Auburn before; it may never happen again.
It was the remark of Eev. Dr. Bushnell on one of his anniver-
sary occasions in Hartford “ that a most delicate condition is
sometimes the lot of a pastor when he is daintily inserted be-
tween an acid and an alkali, having it for his task to keep them
apart and to save himself from being bitten of one, or devoured
*24
by the other.” But no one acquainted with Dr. Hawley will
attribute his long pastorate to any peculiar agility in the treat-
ment of acids and alkalis. In fact it is quite likely they do not
have such chemicals in the First Presbyterian church.
Dr. Hawley is here to-day because he has been bidden to
abide here by the Great Head of the church. My friends, the
pastoral office comes not from beneath, but from above. It
comes from the Great Bishop and Shepherd of Souls who died
once upon the cross, but is alive now forevermore. God has
permitted the pastor of this church to see many tokens of His
favor, and no one rejoices morq in these varied honors than his
younger brother, the rector of St. Peter’s church. His words
of kindly sympathy have come home to me with power, and
have been very full of encouragement. Long may this congre-
gation enjoy your ministrations, my dear brother ! Long may
you remain the pastor of this flock; and if in the counsels of
the Most High, you are not permitted to keep your golden cel-
ebration here, may it be because you have entered within the
golden gate, have pressed with your feet the golden streets,' and
have heard with entranced ear the music of the golden harps in
the city of our Father and our God.
Dr. Brainard here presented to Rev. Dr. Hawley a series of res-
olutions passed by the rector, wai’dens and vestry of St. Peter’s
church in this city, expressing congratulations to the pastor and
people of the First Presbyterian church on this interesting occa-
sion. Following is a copy :
TESTIMONIAL FROM ST. PETER’S.
At a meeting of the Rector, Wardens and Vestry of St. Peter’s
church, Auburn, Hew York, held in the Rectory of said church
Oct. 30, 1882, the following resolutions were adopted :
Whereas, The' congregation of the First Presbyterian
churcli of this city are looking forward to the celebration of the
Twenty-fifth anniversary of the settlement of their pastor, the
Reverend Charles Hawley, Doctor of Divinity;
How, therefore, we in our official capacity desire to extend to
the pastor and congregation of the First Presbyterian church,SERVICES.
Organ Prelude.
“Abide with Me.”
Scripture.—Psalm xc ; II. Cor. v : i-io.
Memorial Hymn, -	-	-	-	-	- Flagler.
PRAYER.
Sentence, “Blessed are the dead.”
ADDRESSES.
“It is not death to die.” 1203.
ADDRESSES.
“ Let saints below in concert sing.” 852.
ADDRESSES.
“ My Jesus as thou wilt.” 992.
BENEDICTION.“ They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firma-
ment ; and they that turn many to righteousness, as the stars
forever and ever.”—Dan., 12:3
*
“ I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I
have kept the faith:”—2 Tim., 4 : 6.
*
“ Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from hence-
forth : Yea saith the Spirit that they may rest from their labors ;
and their works do follow them.—Rev., 14 : 13.
*
REV. JOHN BRAINARD, D. D., PRESIDING,
For twenty-two years associated with Dr. Hawley in friendship
and the work of the Gospel ministry in this city.PASTORS’
MEMORIAL SERVICE,
Sunday Evening, December 6, 1885.
•-----*—
IN MEMORY OP
Rev •Charles Hawley, D. D.
Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church,
AUBURN, N. Y.
1857—1885.
——*----- ■ ■ ■:■
Born August 19,' 1819,
Died November 26, 1885.
“ He being dead yet speakethi'—Heb. 11:4.Pastors and Churches Participating.
REV. JOHN BRAINARD, D. D.,
Rector St. Peter's Episcopal Church.
REV. F. A. D. LAUNT,
Rector St. John's Episcopal Church.
REV. JOS. K. DIXON,
Pastor First Baptist Church.
REV. D. MOORE, D. D.,
Second Baptist Church.
REV. G. P. AVERY,
Pastor First Methpdist Church.
REV. THOMAS SHARPE,
Pastor Wall St. Methodist Church.
rev; w. h. allbright,
Pastor Second Presbyterian Church.
REV. C. C. HEMENWAY,	:
Pastor Central Presbyterian Church.
REV. F. H. HINMAN,
Pastor Calvary Presbyterian Church.
REV. A. S. HUGHEY,
Pastor Westminster Presbyterian Church.
REV. J. J. BRAYTON,
Pastor Universalist Church.
Pastor Disciples Church.
Pastor St. Lucas' German Church.
Pastor A. Z.M. E. Church.
Chaplain Prison.
Theological Seminary.
REV. A. S. HALE,
REV. GEO. FELD,
REV. G. 0. CARTER,
REV. WM. SEARLS, D. D-,
PROF. E. A. HUNTINGTON, D. D.,25
the Christian greetings and congratulations of St. Peter’s church,
Auburn, on this interesting occasion. Your parochial history,
like our own, extends back to the earliest days of thevsettle-
ment here, and from the outset, the extension of the Redeemer’s
Kingdom has been, our common aim. If in these years we have
differed in our methods, our purpose has been one and the
same. We are not unmindful of the joy which must fill your
hearts, as at this time pastor and people sit down together as
one united family, and count up the blessings and mercies of a
quarter of a century.,
Now, therefore, because of our loving regard for your pastor,
his personal worth and many excellencies of character, and our
neighborly feelings of good will for the flock over which God
has permitted him to serve for these last twenty-five years, we
desire to extend our warmest congratulations, .with the earnest
hope that your pastor may long continue to lead this flock in
green pastures and beside the still waters, and that the Great
Head of the church may so bless your united work, that you
may bud and blossom like a garden which the Lord hath
planted.	.
Resolved, That the parish clerk be requested to transmit a
copy of these resolutions to the pastor and congregation of the
First Presbyterian Church, bearing the signature of this corpo-
ration and our parish seal.
'	John Brainard, D. D.,
Rector of St. Peter's Chur civ.
N. P. Clark and Samuel Lyon, Wardens.
J. N. Knapp, D. M. Osborne, N. L. Casey, Charles A. Noble,
A. N. Hollister, H. D. Titus and Charles H. Carpenter, Vestry-
men.
Charles A. Noble, Parish Clerk.
Auburn, Nov. 8, 1882.
The audience ruse during the rendition of the “ Sancta Maria”
by Mrs. Salter.
Dr. Upson introduced Prof. Beecher, as having been for a
short time connected with this congregation, during his student26
life. He said, “we are proud of his ability, his scholarship, his
increasing reputation and influence. Doubtless he would pre-
fer to speak to us in Hebrew, but he can speak very good Eng-
lish.”
Prof. Beecher sketched his recollections of some of the events
of the years of the civil war, when he was himself a student in
the Seminary. Beginning with a Sunday School concert, when
he first made the acquaintance of the First Church and its pas-
tor, he afterward spoke of Dr. Hawley’s public services, and of
his sermons on loyalty and on the duties of citizens. He men-
tioned the skating scenes on the Big Dam and on the Owasco
lake, in which Dr. and Mrs. Hawley, with several clergymen
and other prominent citizens, sometimes practically testified to
their belief in a robust, cheerful, out-of-door type of Christian-
ity. Turning from this to a more serious theme, he spoke of
the religious interest in 1863, in connection with the visit of
the Rev. E. P. Hammond to Auburn. Although himself never
a member of Dr. Hawley’s congregation,' he acknowledged his
indebtedness for influence over his life and character which had
proved to be of great power and value. Dr. Beecher closed his
remarks in the words : “ God grant to you, Dr. Hawley, many
more years here of useful, vigorous, life and power for your
country and for God in his church, in the conversion and sanc-
tification of men.”
Dr. Upson introduced the Rev. Mr. Searls, as “ the pastor of
the largest congregation in this city.”
REMARKS OF REV. W. -SEARLS., CHAPLAIN OF AUBURN STATE
/	PRISON.
This to me is the grandest sign of Christian progress I have
ever beheld.
These contributions and expressions of friendship, coming
from sources so, diverse, when viewed in the light of other years,
tell me, and tell you that religious thought and feeling are blend-
ing together in these last days for the glory of the divine Master.
Such a gathering as this would have been looked upon fifty27
years ago as a Hazardous experiment; to have brought these
ministers together, on one platform, could only have been re-
garded as safe after they had given bonds for their good con-
duct. But, see it now ! This gathering and these ministers,
representing as they do so many churches in this city, all voic-
ing the same expressions of friendship and love, not only for
Dr. Hawley personally, but for his unbounded prosperity in his
calling and ministry. Is it not saying that the time is near when
the “ kingdoms of this world shall become the kingdoms of our
• Lord and of his Christ ?”
Dr. Hawley came'to this city at a time when men with brave
hearts were wanted to stand up for the truth. A storm was
just ready to burst over this land that would sweep away every-
thing that was-weak and unmanly. And you know, and I
know, that the pulpit of the Old First Church was strong for
the Right. It gave forth no uncertain sound. Loyal to God,
to country, to humanity. Fearlessly interpreting the signs of
the times and proclaiming the same with pen and tongue.
It is enough to remember that the great Seward in many
things consulted him, and in all things trusted him. Mr. Sew-
ard selected him to go as IT. S. Commissioner to the Danish
West India Islands on a difficult and delicate mission which
called for good sense as well as staunch integrity and frank hon-
esty. The fact was, Seward would not trust the average poli-
tician and yet sought for one who had political skill and who
at the same time would be above the temptations to which the
average politician might yield. Dr. Hawley performed this
mission with entire satisfaction to Mr. Seward and to the coun-
try.
I first met Dr. Hawley some twenty years ago, and I marked
him then as no ordinary man—especially did I feel that it was
safe to get near, him and equally so to trust him.
Nearly sixteen years ago I came to this city as pastor of the
First M. E. Church, a church then prostrated by the fire which
consumed their edifice, and among the first to offer us a place
to worship during our building was Dr. Hawley. From that28
time to this, our relations have been intimate and warm in a
deep-rooted friendship. This, his own society, was about to
build this beautiful edifice and were gathering up all their
strength for that purpose, but still I found Dr. Hawley ready
with words of cheer and hope helping me on. It gives me
great pleasure to be here and offer this tribute to his generous
spirit and loyal worth.
The conduct of the pastors of the churches in any city is a
fair expression of the feeling that exists among the members of
the same. “ Like priest like people.”
Too often there is manifested a spirit of jealousy which is
found to hinder the growth of the church. But no such spirit
has had place among the pastors of this city. Our work has
been one, and each has felt at home in the other’s pulpit.
Dr. Hopkins indicated or hinted at some of the steps that led
to this success. But is this all ? When I saw my name among
those plumed knights and belted earls, I was struck with the
sudden and abrupt termination of my own name and felt I
could only excuse the committee of arrangements on the ground
that they were not in possession of all the facts in the case.
Several years ago a man, over in the Insane Asylum, calling
himself St. Peter, and I guess he was, put his hands on my
head and conferred on me the title of D. D., so that by as good
a right divine I meekly bear the wonderful honor. I charge
you never to allow such an omission again. I only tell you this
that you may mark a more unpardonable omission on the part of
the committee, and that is, in the program there is no reference
to Mrs. Hawley. I insist upon it that Mrs. Hawley has per-
formed no small part in this great play. However much we
may think of Dr. Hawley, and however much he may merit
our u well done,” who that knows Mrs. Hawley is prepared to
believe that but for her, his success would never have been so
marked.
There was one rule in an old grammar, which I distinctly
remember as rule xn, which was as follows: “ A noun or pro-
noun in the possessive case, is governed by the noun it possess-29
es.” The guiding hand of this excellent wife has been in all
these things.
But all in all it is a remarkable occasion. The changes con-
stantly going on in the pastoral relation, make this long pas-
torate all the more significant, It is an announcement to the
world, that among the good and true there is no discount on
gray hairs, for “ they are a crown of glory if found in the ways
of righteousness.” Well done pastor, well done people! God
bless you my dear brother and preserve you many years to
preach for the Master. And may you and your’s receive ever
the choicest blessings of Heaven ! Amen !
Dr. Upson said this church had a daughter, a grand-daughter,
and a great-grand-daughter, but all could not speak, so the
committee had given preference to the eldest, and the Second
Presbyterian Church would be heard through its pastor, Rev.
W. H. Allbright.
REMARKS OF REV. WM. H. ALLBRIGHT.
Mr. Chairman and Christian Friends :
It has fallen to me in behalf of the associate churches and
pastors of our denomination to present their congratulations
to this church and its pastor on this most interesting occasion-
This honor has come to me in virtue of my position.
The church of which I am pastor is the oldest daughter of
this church. I can therefore lay claim to the relation of son-in-
law, and while I am not the only one which this church has*
nor the handsomest one, you will allow me to call myself the
most venerable one.
This oldest daughter, the Second church, was twenty-five
years old when this union between the mother church and its
present pastor was consummated. I do not know how the staid
daughter looked upon this union. I do know that she rejoices
with you in its results.
It is an old saying that, children do not like frequent mar-
riages on the part of the parents. All the more reason there-
fore for congratulation that the,relation between this church
and its pastor has continued for a quarter of a century.30
There are two things to .which I must refer, as having their
bearing on the pleasure of this anniversary occasion. First—
To the happy relations which have always existed between the
mother church and the other churches.
It is greatly to the credit of the mother church that through
all the history of the outgoing and ingoing of the other churches,
she has maintained the attitude of a fostering mother, rather
than that of the parent who turns the cold shoulder toward her
offspring and makes them shift for themselves. Not unnatur-
ally, and not fruitlessly have the younger churches looked to
her for counsel and aid. The history of fifty years records no
outbreak of bad feeling between the mother and her children.
Much of this has been due, doubtless, to the wisdom and
magnanimity of the pastors of this church. These qualities of
heart and m,ind have certainly characterized its present pastor
in all his relations with the other churches.
The notice of these exercises has been too short for any offi-
cial recognition of this. On the part of the official boards, I feel
sure, however, that I express the feeling of each and all when
I say, that they owe to the pastor of this church, for his excel-
lent counsel, his timely encouragement, and generous interest
in their prosperity, a debt of lasting gratitude. The associate
churches return thanks to the Great Head1 of the church, that
He has spared you so long, and dear sir, to this church not
only, but to them, since' they have shared in a measure, the
benefits of your long and successful pastorate. *
One thing more I cannot forbear to speak of and that is, your
relation to us, your colleagues, and co-pastors.
Perhaps never before in the history of the church of Christ
was there a coincidence so singular as that which happened in
connection with the pastorate of the Presbyterian churches of
this city between three and four years ago.
Three young men, from the same Seminary and the same
class were called, and installed about the same time over three
of the churches of this city. It is not surprising that some of
the older members of the Presbytery shook their heads and.31
sighed for the churches. I am informed, dear brother, that
while some held their breath, you continued to breathe freely.
You had no sleepless nights about the matter. You were not
afraid either for the Presbytery, the churches,- or jealous of the
infusion of so much young blood. You did not see, even in
dreams, the people of your church deserting you, under the elo-
quence of these young men, and the First church standing as a
splendid monument of by-gone days. You had no dreams or
fears of that sort.
Thanks to your generosity, and shall I say your good judg-
ment, you encouraged the courtship between the young men
and the churches, and had a prominent part in the ceremony
when they were married.
As young men and young pastors we thank you. We thank
you that in all our intercourse there has been no spark of jeal-
ousy on the one hand, or of envy on the other. You have
shown us more of consideration and confidence than we have
deserved. We honor you for the kindly spirit you have mani-
fested, and thank you for the counsel and assistance you have
so frequently and cheerfully given. Sincerely do. we pray that
you may long be spared to fill the position you hold among us,
a father and friend, a wise counselor and a beloved co-presbyter.
Personally, too, as well as for the churches, and for my
brethren in the ministry, do I extend heartiest congratulations.
It is indeed, no ordinary pastorate that, in these times covers
such a period, through such a part of our nation’s history and
this restless age in vrhich we live.
During the brief period of my student life in the Seminary,
it was my privilege to be actively identified with the services
and associations of this church. , From your lips, dear sir, I re-
ceived such instruction as has, I trust been so used, during my
brief pastorate, as to bring forth some humble fruit in the Mas-
ter’s service. And thus upon me, as upon hundreds of others,
your ministry has had an influence in moulding and preparing
for the work of the Gospel ministry.
Twenty-five years ago last sabbath, a Seminary student sat32
and listened attentively to your first sermon before , this people.
The text made a deep impression upon his' mind. He has never
forgotten, or ceased to speak of that sermon.
' In the spirit and assurance of those words, you have prose-
cuted the work of these twenty-five years. Having relied upon
His grace, the Master has enabled you to experience the truth
which you then appropriated and affirmed: “ And I am sure
that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the
blessing of the Gospel of Christ.”
The concluding remarks were made by Rev. E. A. Hunting-
ton, D. D., Professor of Biblical Criticism, in whose introduc-
tion Dr. Upson made reference to his 25th anniversary, some
two years ago when a party of friends surprised him at his res-
idence. He briefly alluded, with some pleasantry, to his pecu-
liar' sympathy with the interesting occasion, following as it did
but two years after the surprise, to which Dr. Upson, in intro-
ducing him, had referred,—given him by the thoughtful ancT
generous citizens of Aublirn, in the celebration of his own
twenty-fifth anniversary.
The Professor, moreover, assured Dr. Hawley of his high
appreciation of their delightful intimacy through all these years,
especially when they were daily, not to say hourly, taking s^eet
counsel together. During the extraordinary revival at the very
beginning of his ministry, Prof. Huntington was then, and for
about three years, in charge of the Second Church. This ac-
counts for his working together with Dr. Hawley in the revival
referred to, and during the intensely exciting period of our civil
war, immediately following.
They too, in like manner, and more firmly still, at or near the
dividing line between the halves of this quarter of a century,
had joined, hand-in-hand with their brethren, in the city and
throughout the state, in the seemingly desperate struggle to raise
three hundred thousand dollars, within the short space of sixty
days, for the Theological Seminary of Auburn, in order at once
to keep it in Auburn, and to make the needed additions to its
buildings and endowments. He was most happy to seize thisSB
opportunity to give full credit to Dr. Hawley for wisdom, en-
thusiasm and efficiency in this important undertaking, as well
for the large part which he bore in its triumphant success.
Regretting that, at the late hour, he could not say more, the
Professor heartily congratulated Dr. Hawley on his eminently
useful and distinguished ministry thus far, fervently praying
that yet richer blessings might be in store for him, through many
years to come.
At the close of his remarks, Dr. Upson said he had a surprise
in store—and it proved to be a very Agreeable one—in the form
of the following poem written for the occasion,'b}^ our towns-
man, Josiah Letchworth.
Fond hearts are gathered here to-night,
And loving words are spoken ;
And Friendship’s chain forever bright
Is love’s sincerest token.
We meet to press with fond embrace,
The hand of him we cherish,
And speak, perchance, with awkward grace,
That love which cannot perish.
Our pastor greet we, one and all,
With gratitude, devotion ;
His years of toil, with love recall,
And tenderest emotion.
’Tis his to guide our wayward feet,
To comfort us in sorrow,
With hope our drooping hearts to greet,
When troubled for the morrow.
Like Him who trod life’s thorny way,
/	The world’s great King and Teacher,
In noble living, day by day,
Has he been more than preacher.
All honor would we here bestow
For patient, kind endeavor ;
May he at last that glory know,
The glory that’s forever !84:
DR. HAWLEY’S RESPONSE.
You will not think it strange, my good. friends, that I find
myself at a loss for suitable words in response to the many gen-
erous things that have been said to me and of me, here this
evening. I am grateful beyond any power of utterance at my
command, first of all to God for putting me into the. ministry,
and casting my lot in Auburn with this honored and beloved
church for these twenty-five years so crowded with the tokens
of His favor and of their confidence, and their kindness to me
and to mine. I am thankful to you my brother for the manner
dn which you have spoken in behalf of the congregation, of
the relation which I have been permitted to sustain to them
thus long, and in terms which have gone to my heart, and will
abide there, to inspire me with new courage and, I trust, new
devotion in the Master’s service. And so to each and all of you,
my brethren, who represent kindred interests in these exercises,
for your kind words to-night, and for your personal esteem and
sympathy with all my work, which I hold among the treasured
recollections of my life; to my many friends who have sent
from a distance their messages of congratulation in such num-
bers as to. forbid their reading at this hour, I am grateful; and
not the least for the surprise which greeted me at the close, in
the poem not on the program, which, but for the quality of the
entire feast, I would compare to the good wine that was kept to
the last.
I am grateful to all whose faces at this moment, look into
mine, for their presence, which gives meaning and eloquence to
this occasion—grateful too for the memories which have been so
tenderly revived by my esteemed predecessor, of those who
have ceased to gather in earthly assemblies, and have entered a
service and into joys, not marred by imperfection, nor measured
by the flight of years.
As I have listened, under this burden of mingled joy and
conscious unworthiness, one thing has impressed me as never
before; and that is how absolutely dependent is one in a public
position, environed with care and responsibility, upon the good85
will and co-operation of others for any success ; and at the same
time how fortunate for me to have been surrounded with’a con-
gregation, ever ready with their great resources to second and
sustain every movement and enterprise which has given charac-
ter and value to this pastorate, prolonged a quarter of a century,
less to my praise than through their forbearance and devotion.
No man ever served a more sensible, self-ruled, trustful and
trustworthy people in sacred offices. At no time and in no
emergency, have you failed to respond to the necessity; but
have always moved in united, solid phalanx to meet the duty
in hand, lift the burden and sustain the right, through all this
eventful, period. We have together seen days when with less
of wisdom, less of loyalty, and less of mutual trust, the issue
might have been different. But the bolder the stand for truth and
righteousness, the closer have you rallied around me ; and never
for an instant have I doubted, let the exigency be what it might,
that you would be just and true to the demand, and never have
I been disappointed.
The contrasts of life bring to us often our most suggestive
and joyous experiences. My mind goes back to that strangest
scene in my life, when first I stood in the old church, on that
night of wind and rain to receive this solemn trust, though un-
known till then by sight even, with here or there an exception,
to the crowded audience. The storm without which shook the
building, was a symbol of the struggle of emotions which agi-.
tated me with alternate fear and hope I look back to that
hour, from this scene to-night in this noble sanctuary, the en-
during monument of the liberality and enterprise of the con-
gregation, and of the second important epoch in its history—-
greeted and honored as I have been in this public way, after
this long experience together, to say it were worth any toils?
solicitudes or sacrifices, I might recount, though increased many
fold and protracted through twice twenty-five years of arduous
service.
' I am breaking over the limits of the occasion, and must re-
member the lateness of the hour ; but let me not forget in the36
crowd of memories awakened this evening, to acknowledge that
of all that has been said, nothing has touched me more deeply
than the allusions which have been made to the fraternal rela-
tions which this church and its pastor, have sustained to the
other churches and with my brethren the clergy of the city,
without restriction of creed and form of worship, in every post
of service, through the changes of almost a generation. I owe
more than can be summed up in these fragmentary sentences,
to these associations which have been so full of cheer, help and
strength. They have taught me among other lessons that the
nearer we come together in heart, the less we differ in mind, and
that the most distinctive and precious things of our holy faith,
are not the things which separate Christians into particular
churches, but which bind them in a true catholic spirit to one
another and to Christ. It will ever be among the pleasant rec-
ollections of this pastorate that my personal relations have been
so harmonious with the other Presbyterian churches of the city,
in the formation of the two younger of which I had some part,
and all the pastors of which, those now with us, as well as their
predecessors, have given me their confidence and brotherly
affection. Grateful as this is to me, and for this very reason, I
have appreciated the more, similar tokens of regard from other
communions, such as have come this evening from the wardens
and vestry of St. Peter’s church and its beloved rector, who
came to his charge so soon after I had entered upon mine, so
that we have gone side by side this score of years, as he has told
you, in the bonds of intimate friendship and the closest Chris-
tian sympathy.
One word more. It belongs to the occasion, as to no other
which will occur again in my personal history, to acknowl-
edge in the broadest terms the generous esteem of friends,
citizens and neighbors, with acts of kindness which have put me
under lasting obligations of gratitude and affection. Never
while reason remains and memory continues her office, will I
cease to cherish the remembrance of all that this varied inter-
course has been to me, amid the duties and experiences which37
make up my life in Auburn. May the blessing of the Lord
which maketh rich and addeth no sorrow with it, be your abid-
ing reward.
The audience rose, and sang the doxology, after which Rev.
F. L. Wilkins, pastor of the Second Baptist church, pronounced
the benediction.
THE FEAST IN THE CHAPEL.
The exercises oyer, the immense audience surged down the
broad aisles of the church to the pulpit, where Dr. Hawley
cordially clasped hands with a thousand well-wishers. The
congregation then gradually found its way into the chapel which
was also tastefully decorated for the occasion. Here Dr. Haw-
ley and his estimable wife also received, occupying a position on
the dais at the right, where congratulations were continued for
half an hour or more. John S. Hawley, M. D., of the New
York City Hospital, son of the reverend doctor, was also pres-
ent, and was kept quite as busy as his father in renewing his
innumerable acquaintanceships here. In the parlors and study
opening into the chapel at*the north, a most tempting sight was
disclosed when the doors were thrown ajar. Long tables liter-
ally groaning beneath their weight of good things met the gaze,
and a busy scene was presented as the numerous corps of wait-
ers and waitresses flitted to and fro in the arduous work of
serving the guests present. This was no inconsiderable tinder-
taking in the crowded state of the rooms, but we are ready to
testify it was successfully accomplished and nobody went away
with any unsatisfied longing, gastronomically speaking. The
menu included salads of every description, cold meats, ice cream,
coffee, fruit and all the accessories of a well regulated feast,
which none know better how to prepare than the ladies of the
First Church. And the viands were in such superabundance
that we have no doubt the scriptural twelve basketsful were left
over. The rooms were not deserted until considerably after 11
o’clock, when the commemoration of the twenty-fifth pastoral
anniversary of Dr. Hawley passed into history.38
REV. SAMUEL^DUFFIELD,
TO C. H„
Nov. 3,1882.
I read that Ruskin, in a bitter whim,
Sneered at the pulpit that would counsel him ;
“ What is it, pray,” he cried “ that can be said
In thirty minutes given to raise the dead !”
And, equally, with strong satiric tone,
Bluff honest Bright, made such a taunt his own:
“ For it must weary men,” said he, “ to hear
The same old story, every month a year ! ”
I doubt not that the constant wonder grows
How such true freshness fills each new blown rose ;
And yet I doubt not that each lad and lass
Still pluck the roses gladly as they pass,
While the old skies renew old holiday
For this old human nature.on its way !
Thus, like the sky, the flower, the heart of man,
The messenger completes the perfect plan,
And tells of heaven and love and duty yet
In tones whose freshness none can well forget ;
Yea, though the years may fly, the truth remains—
As when the petals strew the Sharon plains
And roses fall while fragrance lives, and deep
Beneath the soil the stronger roots shall creep.
So grow thou deeper, Rose-tree of the truth !
So shed thy petals over age and youth ;
So cast thy fragrance as an unseen grace
Through home and heart, wherever thou hast place !
And some day, when the very thorns are dead,
And when the changing leaves their word have said,
And when the roses all have bloomed and fled,
The perfume of good deeds shall crown thy head !
And whether "then the flowers be red or white,
Their fragrance yet shall linger on the height.
So I who love thee, though I draw not near
To thy ripe Autumn, send thee words of cheer!
Bloomfield, N. J., Oct. 31, 1882.39
DEM JUBILAR,
HERRN DR. HAWLEY,
am 3, Nov., 1882.
“Wen ehren jene Feierklange
Der Glocken in dem Haus des Herrn ?
Wem gelten all ’die Festgesange,
Die laut ertonen nah und fern ?
Warum sieht man zu heil’gen Hallen,
So weit das frohe Auge blickt,
In grosser Schaar die Beter wallen,
Wo Kranze den Altar geschmuckt ?
Hat eines Fiirsten Huld und Gnade
Der Armen herbe Last versiisst ?
Hat man auf reichgeschmucktem Pfade
Den Landesherrn heut’ froh begrusst ?
Will Siegesthaten man jetzt preisen,
Die Frucht von einem blut’gen Streit?
Will man den Boten Ehr’ erweisen,
Die Frieden brachten weit und breit ?”
*
“ Nicht ein gekrontes Haupt zu ehren
Hort man der Glocken frohen Schall;—
Nicht Siegersbotschaft heut’ zu horen,
Versammeln sich die Beter all’ ;
Nicht einen Boten zu begriissen,
Nicht ihn zu sehn, der hochbegllickt
Den Lorbeer tragt und zu den Fiissen
Den Ueberwund’nen sieht gebiickt.
Und doch ist der, den sie heut? ehren,
Ein Sieger und ein Held zugleich ;
Doch nicht die Fluren zu verheeren,
Nicht zu erringen Kron’ und Reich ;
Nicht Lorbeer ist’s, nicht Laub der Eichen,
Die dieser Kampfer sich ersah,—
Sein Schmuck, er ist das Kreuzeszeichen,
Das Kreuz des Herrn auf Golgotha.
Der wahrend funfundzwanzig Jahren
Das Wort des Herren treu gelehrt,
. Der unter Mtihen und Gefahren40
Dem Aberglauben hat gewehrt,—
1st der nicht Held, ist der nicht Sieger ?
(Schmuckt auch sein Bild nicht Walhalla) *
Nicht Fiirsten ist er, Gottes Krieger,
Sein Schild das Kreuz auf Golgotha.	,
Betrubten Herzen HeiLzu spenden,
War Seines Herzens hochste Lust,
Und Balsam troff von seinen Handen
In manche kummervolle Brust.
Gewiss kann der recht wirksam trosten,
Der selbst der Leiden manche sah,
Der harrt der Freuden der Erlosten,
Blickt an das Lamm auf Golgotha.
Und wenn auf seinen Lasterwegen
Der Sunder nicht den Herrn geahnt,
Dann trat er warnend ihm entgegen
Und hat zur Umkehr ihn gemahnt.
Und wollt’ der nicht zu Gott sich wenden,
Damit Vergebung er empfah’,
Dann wies er ihm mit Priesterhanden
Den blut’gen Mann auf Golgotha.”
Heil Dir, Du Knecht des Herrn, denn heute !
Bringt Blumen her dem Jubilar !
O, freue dich des Fest’s Gelaute
Und leb in Kraft noch manches Jahr.
Fern bleibe von Dir Gram und Schmerzen,
Und, wenn dereinst Dein Ende nah,
Dann sink mit glaubensvollem Herzen
An’s Heilandsherz auf Golgotha.
FRAU PASTOR H. FELD.
* This does not refer to the heathen Walhalla, but to a marble structure near Regensburg>
where are placed busts and statues of renowned persons of modern times.41
OUR PASTOR’S WIFE.
BY REV. LANSING PORTER.
For five and twenty years our Pastor toiled.
With willing feet we throng the house of God,
To celebrate the day. Elected men
Of every name and faith, in fitting phrase,
Laud his great work and worth ; and as they speak
His praise, a happy, grateful people cry,
“ Amen ! Amen !”
Help me, Inspiring Muse,
To sing, in kindred strains, the other’s worth.
Unaided pen must fail to celebrate,
In worthy words, the merits of th£ wife.
Ah ! who shall dare, with rude, intrusive hand,
To draw aside the veil of private life !
Who dare to speak of sacred scenes concealed
From mortal ey 6 ! But here her province lay—
Her woman's work.
When tired with toils, when crushed
With cares, when mutt’ring clouds o’ercast his sky,
When friends were cold, and foes were bold and hope
Expired in fell despair, her hand has soothed
His aching head, and wiped the tear and healed
Plis wounded, bleeding heart. In such dark days
Which come to all God’s ministers alike,
How needful human sympathy and aid
To supplement Divine. In his dark days,
Endowed with happy graces for the task,
And to the full extent of human skill,
Has she inspired his soul anew with faith
In further victories. Pardon the Muse
That sees and sings this “ power behind the throne; ”
Except for her this day had never dawned,
For well we know the potent part she’s played.
The loved companion of his younger days,
His wise adviser in maturer years,
With brightness flowing from perennial fount,
How has she cheered his life with buoyant hope,
And faithfully “ stayed up his heavy hands,”
Through all these struggling years, till this glad hour42
On this auspicious day of his acclaim,
Let not her suffer woman’s common fate
And be forgot. Proudly proclaim her part.
A thousand minor duties bravely done,
Her woman’s mission culminates in this—
To brighten and so lighten all his work.
Her happy heart and cheerful ways, in all
Their plentitude of love and light, illume
The good man’s path. ,
On this proud day for him,
Be not less just and generous to her.
Let friends recount, and poet’s pen record,
These graceful gifts which have adorned her life.
God bless our Pastor AND our Pastor's wife /
Auburn, Nov. 4, 1882.CONGRATULATORY LETTERS.
From Pres, Roswell D. Hitchcock, D. Z>., LL. D.
Union Theological Seminary,
9 University Place,
New York City, Nov 2, 1882.
My Dear Dr. Hawley:—I send you the congratulations of your Alma
Mater on the occasion of your rounding, in the fulness of your strength, the
five and twentieth anniversary of your conspicuous and fruitful ministry in Au-
burn. When I remember that eight and thirty years have passed since you went
out from here, I marvel at your vitality and freshness. You have an immense
deal to be thankful for. '	Very sincerely yours,
ROSWELL D. HITCHCOCK.
From Hon. William E. Dodge,
225 Madison Ave.,
New York, Oct. 31, 1882.
To Messrs. A. J. Upson, and others, com. of invitations, Auburn, N. Y.
Gentlemen It would afford me very great pleasure, if it were possible, for
me to accept your invitation to be present at the reception to be given on Fri-
day evening, to commemorate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the pastorate of
Dr. Hawley. Having just returned from attending the Committee of the “ Slater
Fund,” held last Thursday ih Cleveland, it will be impossible for me to leave
home. Please present to my dear friend Dr. Hawley the warm congratulations of
Mrs. Dodge and myself that a kind Providence has spared his life “ to look back
on all the way the Lord has led him during these twenty-five years” of faithful
work in His vineyard. Very few have so good a record as he, and it is a very great
thing in these days of change to have remained so long in one church ; there are
so many who go from place to place that it is having a very damaging influence,
leading often to the idea that there is a surplus of ministers.
May God long spare the life of your Pastor “ to go in and out before you and
break to you the bread of life.”
Trusting you will have a very interesting occasion,
I am very respectfully yours,
W. E. DODGE.44
From ex-Governor Robinson.
Elmira, Nov. i, 1882.
Messrs. Anson J. Upson, D. D., and others, committee etc.
My Dear Sirs :—I have received your kind invitation to be present on the
twenty-fifth anniversary of the Pastorate of the Rev. Charles Hawley, D. D., at
the First Presbyterian Church, of Auburn, N. Y., on the evening of the third
Nov. inst. I regret my inability to accept youf invitation, and I beg leave to
say that this is no mere formal expression of regret. I have had the privilege
of enjoying the intimate acquaintance and friendship of Dr. Hawley from a
period long anterior to his Pastorate of the First Presbyterian Church of Auburn.
From the locks of youth to the whitening hairs of, age, every year,has deepened
my regard for Jiim as a man, in all the relations of life, and for those qualities
with which he has adorned his high and sacred calling. Please present to him
and to the people among whom he labors very sincere congratulations for all
which they have together accomplished in the past,, and my hopes for all which
they may accomplish in the future. ,	.........
, With great respect I am sincerely yours,
L. ROBINSON.
From Hon. James C. Smith.
Canandaigua, Oct. 30, 1882.
Gentlemen :—I regret that I cannot have the pleasure of attending the re-
ception commemoration of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the pastorate of the
Rev. Dr. Hawley, to which you have kindly invited me, but I beg, through you,
to express to Dr. Hawley, my abiding regard and esteem and my hearty con-
gratulations upon the happy event.
I am yours &c.,
JAMES C. SMITH.
Anson J. Upson, and others, committee, etc.
Front Rev. James R. Boyd, D. D.	r :
. ,	Albany, Nov, 2, 1882.
Rev. Dr. Upson :—To you and to the other gentlemen of the committee of
invitation, I owe an apology for not sending an earlier acknowledgment of your
kind remembrance of me and of your courtesy in the invitation I have received
from you to be present at the reception that is to commemorate the. twenty-fifth
anniversary of the pastorate of my highly esteemed and beloved friend, the Rev.
Dr. Hawley.
It would give me, I assure you, the highest pleasure to attend, and to offer in
’ person to that dear brother my ardent congratulations upon the length, the happi-
ness, and distinguished usefulness of his pastorate, and to subjoin the silent45
prayer to the Great Head of the Church, that it may please Him to extend it
another twenty-five years and to make them years of similar happiness and suc-
cess. But I must deny myself the pleasure of participating in the varied exer-
cises of so grand an occasion, which in the largest degree I would be able to
appreciate and to enjoy.
Please present to the honored and worthy pastor my sincere regrets on this
account, and at the same time my best wishes and prayers for a long and happy
life in his acceptable field of labor.
With sincere regards to yourself and other gentlemen of the committee,
I am yours and theirs,
J. R. BOYD.
From the Rev. Henry M. Field., D. D.
Stockbridge, Nov. i, 1882.
My Dear Dr. Hawley:—The invitation of your committee reached me
here, and I regret extremely that it is not in my power to accept it, but I have
been ill for six weeks, and am not yet well enough to leave home, but my thoughts
and my best wishes will be with you. I do not think any one of your congre-
gation has known you longer than I. Our acquaintance began in Williams Col-
lege forty-five years ago, and soon ripened into friendship, which has continued
unbroken till this hour, and I am sure will continue as long as we are on the
earth. I have watched your course from the beginning and have felt a personal
pride and gratification at your success. It has always given me. the greatest
pleasure to hear your brethren speak of you with so much love, confidence and
respect.
But, my dear brother, we are neither of us any longer young. The greater
part of life is already past. But where a life has been well spent, the last years
are the best ; they are the most serenely happy. The last decade is the corona-
tion of all that have gone before. That you may yet have many years on the
earth, in the Sweet companionship of your dear wife, and the love and honor of
all who know you ; and that you may have in the world to come life everlasting,
is the fervent prayer of	/
Your friqnd and brother,
HENRY M. FIELD. ‘
From Rev. Thomas K. Beecher.
' Elmira; N. Y., Nov. 2, 1882.
Anson J.-Upson and others :
My Dear Brethren All Fridays of the year I am inexorably home-fast.
On any other day of the week I should make haste to join the glad company
that will gather in the First Church^ Auburn, to-morrow.46
Short pastorates are afflictions, long pastorates are blessed opportunities of
institutional growth by the vital forces of Gospel and personal love.
I congratulate the church that can show men and women grown up, who have
never known but one pastor. I congratulate the pastor, who amid the aches
and longings from which he may never escape can say, behold me and the child-
ren thou hast given me.	>
May the light of the First Church never grow dim in Auburn. May the tes-
timonies from your pulpit ever make for righteousness and religion. May your
homes be places of peace, and prayer and piety. May your assemblies be gath-
ered households, rejoicing in the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our
Great God, and our Lord, JeSus Christ.
Brethren ! I salute you all and reach out a hearty hand of fraternity to your
loved pastor.
Yours in the Christian faith and hope,
THOMAS K. BEECHER.
From President J. F. Tuttle, D. D.
Wabash College,
Crawfordsville, Ind., Oct. 30th, 1882.
My Dear Friend and Brother, Charles Hawley, D. D.Your card
of invitation to the —Dte™~ of your pastorate at Auburn, is just received. I
would answer it in person if within a reasonable distance. The founders of
Auburn in selecting its site seem to have had no knowledge of where Wabash
College was to be built. We must accept the fact of space as too great between
them, for me to be one of the humblest in the throng of brethren and friends
that shall meet and greet you next Friday evening. But the mail will convey
my sincere congratulations. It is a great achievement to stand unmoved at such
a post twenty-five years. Fifteen years at Rockaway and almost twenty-one
here—the latter involving the duty of one sermon, a Sabbath to the students—
qualify me to express the opinion. And you have done it so well. These years
you have loyally “ done one thing '''—filled your mission to that old and honored
church. You have become one in the line of grand pastors in that pulpit. You
found that pulpit a power and by the union of your mind’s best work with your
heart’s best love you have enlarged that power. You have stood there nearly a
generation. Not all your friends will b.e there to greet you ; such a pastor as
you must needs have accompanied many whom you loved to the dark curtain
which hides Heaven from our view. There are not as many signs of age on
you, as on some others, but enough to show that a large fraction of your work
is already done. And what of it ? No reason for despondency or tears with one
who has filled his bosom with yellow sheaves. Not yet—I trust not yet by a
great deal—must you say :
“ Sheaf’d is the golden com;
The harvest now is gathered.”47
Years of sturdy, abundant, joyful reaping be your’s yet. May the Lord of the
harvest grant it.
Accept, dear brother, the kindliest greetings which the pen or lip can express
on the occasion of so pleasant an anniversary.
Fraternally yours,
JOSEPH F. TUTTLE.
From Rev. Anson Smyth, D.D.
Cleveland, O., Oct. 31, 1882.
Rev. Anson J. Upson, D. D., Chairman of Committee.
Dear Sir I am in receipt of your invitation to be present at the com-
memoration, next Friday evening, of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the
pastorate of the Rev. Chas. Hawley, D. D., in the pleasant city of Auburn.
It would afford me the highest pleasure to be with you on that most interest*
ing occasion. My acquaintance with Dr. Hawley began more than forty years
ago, in our College days, and though I have not often seen him for these many
years past, I have been happy to know that his ministerial life has fulfilled the
prophecy and promise of his youth. Though I cannot be with you, I send
through you to Dr. Hawley congratulations and the hope that his future years
may be many and full of prosperity and usefulness.
Fraternally yours,
ANSON SMYTH.
From Prof. W. G. T. Sheddr D. D., LL. D.
Union Theological Seminary,
New York, Nov. i, 1882.
To Messrs A. J. Upson, Sylvester Willard, and others, Committee, &c.
Gentlemen It would give me great pleasure to accept your kind invitatiton
to be present at the reception in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the
pastorate of Dr. Hawley, but my engagements forbid.
My recollections of the First Presbyterian Church in Auburn are vivid, though
it is now more than a quarter of a century since, together with my family, I
enjoyed its privileges.
Please to present to its pastor my congratulations, and sincere wishes that he
may see many more years of prosperous labor in the congregation which he has
served so acceptably.
Yours very truly,
W. G. T. SHEDD.48
From the Rev. Theo. Z. Cuyler, D. D.	/
Lafayette Ave. Church,
Brooklyn, Nov. 2, 1882.
Beloved Brother :—This mail must not leave without my small wallet of
warmest and most heartfelt congratulations to the pastor of my two “bairns,”
and the Bishop of the First Presbyterian flock !
Every true minister is an architect for eternity, and you have been enabled for
five and twenty years to lay up some’solid spiritual masonry that will outlast the
superb stone structure in which you preach. May every stroke you strike for
Christ echo in Heaven.
I wish I could be with your rejoicing people to-morrow evening. But here
goes a right hand of hearty greeting to grasp your own, with a thousand bene-
dictions. When you have ended your life work among that flock who love you,
may you sleep sweetly among them, and “breakground” for them on the Resur-
rection morn!
Yours in the fellowship of Christ Jesus,
THEODORE L. CUYLER.
Dr. Charles Hawley.
From Rev. B. M• Goldsmith, D. D.
Bellona, Nov. 2, 1882.
Rev. A. J. Upson, D. D., and others.
Dear Friends :—Your invitation to attend a reception to be given to the
Rev. Dr. C. Hawley, on the 3d inst., was duly received and I have been
waiting with a hope that I might make an acknowledgment thereof in person.
This, it seems now, I shall hardly be able to do, and I say it with much regret,
for it would afford me unmixed satisfaction to prove by my presence, my
regard for him as a man and a Christian brother. Doubtless the fact that we
were members of the same tribe—the tribe of “ Union ”—like Benjamin of old—
a small tribe in this section of Israel,—and that we sat simultaneously at the
feet of the same Gamaliels, Robinson, White, Parker, Cox and Mason, has
led you to include my name in the list of invitations. Greatly overshadowed as
we are by the tribe of “ Auburn,” (or Judah, shall I call it ?) I rejoice that our
dear Mother has sent forth a son so genial in manner, so sound in judgment
and withal so faithful and efficient in.his work that he has been deemed worthy’
of adoption on terms of full equality by the tribe of Judah. ■ Indeed, it may
be doubted on whom the, honors of the. occasion will most thickly fall—whether
■ on him in whom the exercises find their centre or on those who have had the
sagacity to perceive, and.the disposition thus to recognize his deservings. By
the favoring providence of God may the occasion be all that you are hoping to
make it.
Sincerely yours, ■ r ‘
B. M. GOLDSMITH.49
From the Rsv. Horace Eaton, D. D.
Palmyra, N. Y., Nov. 2, 1882.
Dr. Willard, and other members of the Committee :—Having just returned
home, I hasten to assure you of my thanks for the invitation and my regrets that
I cannot join you in the congratulations of to-morrow evening.
As the old and only remaining co-presbyter of Dr. Hawley while pastor at
Lyons, I can but remind you that he belonged to Lyons Presbytery and Wayne
county, before Auburn laid violent hands upon him and took him away. During
all these twenty-five years we have not ceased to realize that your great gain
has been our great loss. He was our metropolitan at court, the clerk of our
Presbytery. His words, counsels, personal labors were identified with the pros-
perity of each of our congregations. He was “the brother beloved ” in all our
feeble churches.
Now to tear up a tree with branches so fruitful and with roots so deep-struck,
and transplant it into a vineyard so rich with other trees, seemed to us pitiless,
cruel, demanding penitence, restitution. But as the tree has continued to bear
fair and grafted fruit in Cayuga as it, did in Wayne,—as it has been a shelter for
our Presbyterian seed-plat,.our beloved Seminary, which from time to time has
sent us young trees in good liking to take the place of decaying and falling
ones, we have come, in our love for Auburn and the school of the prophets, to
say with one of old, “ the thing proceedeth from the Lord.” And as we yearly
go up to the feast at Jerusalem, we shall continue to pray for the peace of the
First Church of Auburn and for the usefulness and long life of its pastor.
Very truly yours,
HORACE EATON.
From Daniel Ayres, M. D.
198 Montague St.,
Brooklyn, Nov. 1st, 1882.
My Dear Dr. Hawley:—I am certainly obliged to the gentlemen of the
committee for an invitation to your reception, and beg that you will convey to
them the assurance of my appreciation. But to you whom I have known long
enough and well enough, to thoroughly hold in highest esteem, I wish to offer
my unqualified congratulations, for it is an enviable experience to find one’s self,
at the end of a quarter century of arduous life,—in a realized state of reconcil-
iation with so large a body of human beings.
If I was within reasonable distance, or able to leave the hot guns of my life
battle, I should like to say all this and more too, whilst grasping your honest
hand and feeling my way to your warm beating heart. It was one among my.
disappointments of the last summer to miss the. pleasure of meeting you in the
mountains as I had intended, but rest assured I did not fail.to,have your company-
in imagination,?—for you,were often present in spirit, and it is among the pleas-
ant anticipation of the future to renew past experiences.50
Please accept our kindest and best wishes, for yourself and the excellent wife
whom everybody admires and loves.
Yours very truly,
DANIEL AYRES,
From Prof \ Matson Meier-Smith, D. D.
20x5 DeLancey Place,
Philadelphia, Nov. i, 1882.
My Dear old Friend and Brother :—Accept my heartiest congratulations
on the silver wedding of your Auburn pastorate. It is a memorable record
when one has, in these latter days, ministered to one flock for a quarter of a cen-
tury. In you can I know what a blessing it has necessarily been to the genera-
tion you have trained and as well to the many of the maturer life whom you
have blessed and comforted as the shadows lengthened. I say I know—you will
let me say here that I feel warmly indebted to you for a friendship, a noble, man-
ly influence and an ideal of true usefuless, in the years of my crude youth, when
I needed such a friend,—more than I can readily express. In fact, after my
dear mother, I know of no teacher or friend to whom I owe more. And not
unfrequently now-a-days, when I am instructing and counselling young men on
their way to the ministry, I.. remember things you have said to me, and I
“ counsel the same,” to others “ that they may teach others also.”
The years fly away, the gray hairs are upon us. Often I wish I might grasp
hands with that good friend of my youth, and thank God that he still lives upon
earth honored and useful.
And so I pray that years be yet given him and that in the full strength of his
intellectual and physicial manhood he may work and rejoice, until the word
comes for the last which is a yet better and a tireless service.
My wife and I thank you for the invitation to the reception. But for the
indefinitely postponed annihilation of time and space, we should certainly
accept. But believe in our sincere and loving greetings for yourself and Mrs.
Hawley, ever as of old, faithfully and lovingly,
MATSON * MEIER-SMITH.
From William H. Bogart, Esq.
Aurora, Cayuga Lake, Oct. 30, 1882.
My Dear Mr. Osborne :—-I thank you and the other gentlemen of your
committee for recollecting me as of those to whom the Quarter Century of
Dr. Hawley would be interesting. Twenty-five years’ service of such excellence
and ability constitute a treasure in the archives of your church, it does well to
remember. And it is the New Auburn of activity and prosperity which will be
around him.51
I want to give my respectful homage to him as an historian who has had the
intellectual power to discover history’s truths and the courage to utter them.
He has called the people of the nineteenth century to the plaudit of the moral
bravery of the men, who in the seventeenth brought the word of Christian life
into our own savage death of cruelty and barbarism. And, stainlessly sound in
the truth himself he has not turned aside from doing honor to the Jesuit and the
Roman Catholic who dared “ perils in the wilderness” and “perils among the
heathen ” to teach the wild man the mercy of the gospel. I honor Dr. Hawley
for this and ask you to present to him my felicitations that he has done the work
of a wise and courageous historian so well.
I must not doubt your full success, and that Auburn will express its fitness
to be a city by its large way of friendship.
Very respectfully yours,
WILLIAM IL BOGART.
From Rev. Frederick G. Clark, D. D.
Troy, Oct. 30, 1882.
My Dear Dr. Upson :—I thank you for the invitation just received. It
gives me opportunity to express my personal regard for yourself and to say how
much we miss you in these parts. It also recalls most pleasant memories of col-
lege days when I first knew and gauged the fine qualities of my friend Hawley.
His quarter century of service at Auburn is a grand record of Divine Mercy
and pastoral fidelity and force. I should delight to .be present on Friday even-
ing, but cannot. So it only remains to send my heartiest congratulations to the
long wedded pastor and people.
Very sincerely yours,
F. G. CLARK.
From Rev. Joseph R. Page, D. D.
Brighton, N. Y., Nov. 2, 1882.
My Dear Dr. :—The invitation of your committee to attend the reception,
commemorative of the quarter-century pastorate of Rev. Dr. Hawley, has been
received. I should greatly enjoy being present, but other demands upon my
time will prevent.
For many years Dr. Hawley has been one of my most highly prized friends,
and his work in Auburn recognized as second to that of no other man. But for
him Auburn Seminary would be a thing of the past.
All honor to a wise, faithful and beloved leader in every good work.
Yours truly,
JOS. R. PAGE.52
From Rev, Robt. B. Camp fields D, D.
Newark, N. J., Nov. 2, 1882.
Rev. C. Hawley, D. D.
My Dear Sir :—I have received from the Committee of your Church, an invi-
tation to attend the reception commemorative of the twenty-fifth anniversary
of your pastorate. I should be most happy to be present, were it in my power.
You have my best wishes for a delightful occasion, both for pastor and people,
and that your Christian unity and fellowship which has existed for a quarter of
a century, may continue for years to come.
Please present my thanks to your Committee. With kind regards to Mrs.!
Hawley,	Yours fraternally,
R. B. CAM PFI ELD.
From President E. S. Frisbee, D.D.
Wells College,
Aurora, Cayuga Lake, N. Y., Nov. 3, 1882.
Dear Dr. Hawley:—It is so seldom that a pastor reaches the twenty-fifth
anniversary of his settlement in the same place, that when such an event does
occur his friends do well to celebrate it.
I am very sorry, however, to be obliged to forego the pleasure of uniting with
yourself and your friends this evening in the exercises planned for the occasion.
Instead of accepting the kind invitation of the committee in charge to be pres-
ent, I must send regrets on account of the pressure of College duties.
Hoping that you will have not only an enjoyable occasion, but that you will
have many years yet of prosperous service in the Master’s cause with your peo-
ple, I remain,	'Very truly yours,
E. S. FRISBEE.
From Hon. Truman P. Handy.
Cleveland, Ohio, Nov. 2, 1882.
Dear DR. Hawley Thanks for the kind invitation of your committee to>
be present on the 25th anniversary of your pastorate in Auburn, with my re-;
grets. I have many pleasant recollections of the old First Church with Dr*
Lansing and his successors and especially of our loved friendJ and brother, Mr.
James S. Seymour, Dr. Steel, and others of your session.
Wishing you another quarter of a century of successful labor as in the past,
and with my sincere esteem for yourself and family,' I remain, -
Very, truly your Friend and Brother,
T. P. HANDY.53
From Rev. Dr. E. D. G. Prime.
Editorial Rooms, New York Observer,
New York, Nov. ii, 1882.
Rev. Charles Hawley, D. D.
My Dear Brother —I have, only this morning, received the . Auburn
paper containing the account of the very interesting exercises connected with
the twenty-fifth anniversary of your settlement in the First Church. I feel very
much, in reading the account, as if I had been there, and though it is somewhat
late in the day, I send you my most hearty congratulations. I congratulate you
not so much upon the completion of the period,> (although it is a cause for con-
gratulation that you are so much nearer the final reward and the fulness of
-joy) as upon what you have, by the grace God, been enabled to accomplish, and
to enjoy. I have often thought of you as one whose lines have fallen in very
pleasant places, and in the favor of God which has accompanied and followed
what you. have been permitted to do in his name you have been greatly blessed.
Surely it must be a pleasure tp .you also that there, are so many who rejoice in
your distinguished success. I do most sincerely wish and pray that, if it be
God's will, you may be kept in the same place and in the same circumstances
for another Twenty-five years, and that the^smile of God may continue to rest
upon you and your labors.
Will you accept for yourself and Mrs. Hawley, the assurance of my most
fraternal regard and best wishes.
Yours most truly,
E. D. G. PRIME.
From Rev. Dr. A. T. Chester.
Buffalo, Oct. 31, 1882.
To the Committee on Invitations :
Gentlemen :—I thank you for the polite invitation to attend the reception
in celebration of the twenty-fifth anniversary of Dr. Hawley’s pastorate in Au-
burn. It would, give me great pleasure to be present, but imperative duties at
home make it impracticable.
I have been accustomed to say, that for a pastor to remain as much as ten
years over the same church, is satisfactory proof both of the wisdom and piety
of the minister and of the excellence of the congregation. But twenty-five yejars !
what an assurance this gives of the highest qualities of both pastor and people.
What a wealth of fidelity and patience and of loving appreciation is here stored
up. What tender sympathies, what joyful triumphs might this long united his-
tory reveal.'
I congratulate my honored friend, .Dr. Hawley, and the congregation, with
many members of which I have a pleasant acquaintance, on the. recurrence of
this joyful occasion, and pray that this silver wedding may bind pastor and peo-54
pie in even a closer and more loving union, for .their own abiding comfort and
for the glory of the Great Head of the church.
Yours very truly,
A. T. CHESTER.
From Rev. S. W. Boardmany D. D.
69 Fifth Avenue,
Asbury Pare, N. J.,
Nov. 2,-1882.
Rev. Anson J. Upson, D. D., LL. D., and others, committee, etc.
Dear Sirs :—Accept of our acknowledgment of the reception of your circular
announcing the Twenty-Fifth anniversary of the settlement of Rev. Charles
Hawley, D. D., as pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Auburn. I had
well remembered the occasion, and felt sure, from their past observances, that
his people would not allow so interesting an anniversary to go by unnoticed.
Convey our heartiest congratulations to the congregation, and to Dr. and Mrs.
Hawley,, upon this auspicious anniversiary. There can scarcely be a greater
privilege in this world, a greater joy, than to be for many years the pastor of a
large church constantly growing stronger. The very edifice in which you wor-
ship is a fit. monument of the important work already accomplished by your
pastor in Auburn.
It was no small happiness to have been associated, for more than fifteen years
side by side with him and with his people in the pastorate of a church so nearly
related to you, from the first, as the Second Church.
That is a favored life which is permitted to welcome such a multitude to the
Lord’s table, as form the aggregate admissions to the First Church, of these
twenty-five fruitful years.
May pastor and people long continue to enjoy the same abounding prosperity
in the service of our Divine Redeemer.
With kindest regards, yours, &c.,
S. W. BOARDMAN.
From Rev. Dr. W. E. Knox.
Elmira, Oct. 31, 1882.
Messrs. Upson, Willard, and others, committee.
Dear Brethren :—Accept my thanks for your kind invitation to Dr. Haw-
ley’s Twenty-Fifth Anniversary, and my regrets at not being able to attend. You
serve him right for staying so long where he was a quarter-century ago. I al-
most did it once, but got frightened,at becoming so old and left with the people’s
consent. But I am glad Dr. Hawley faces the reception and goes on remaining.
I hope we who come to Auburn so often will find his remains there in their
present animated condition for the balance, say of the century. Not to find55
him there would be the same as not finding the First'Church, or Dr. Willard, or
Drs. Huntington and Hopkins, or Treasurer Cook, and a good many other pro-
fessionals who have had so much to do in keeping things in a healthful condi-
tion in the town characterized by the poet as the loveliest city (including the
state prison) in all the plain of Cayuga and parts adjacent. That sentence is
very long but it has not made me forget Dr. Hawley, who knows how highly I
esteem him, and how cordially I congratulate him and his influential congrega-
tion on his long, happy and useful' pastorate. -
Most fraternally,	■
W. E. KNOX.
From Rev. Dr. L. Parsons.
Mount Morris, N. Y„ Nov. 2d, 1882.
To Dr. Anson J. Upson, and others.
•' Dear Brethren :—Your kind invitation to the reception in commemoration
of the Twenty-fifth anniversary of the pastorate of the Rev. Chas. Hawley, D.
D., is thankfully received ; and I deeply regret that circumstances will prevent
me from being present. My very high regard for Dr. Hawley, and my venera-
tion for the old First Church of Auburn, which is so precious in its historical
associations, assure me that the approaching service will be one of rare interest ;
and more than this I am confident that the influence of this long and successful
pastorate will be beneficial to all the ministers and churches in this region.
Please extend to Dr. Hawley aiid the church my congratulations ; with the
wish that together they may yet reap abundantly of the seed already sown, and
be privileged also to rejoice in the celebration of their Fiftieth anniversary.
Yours very truly,
LEVI PARSONS.
From Rev. Rufus S. Green.
56 Allen St., Buffalo, N. Y., 10, 30, ’82.
Rev. Chas. Hawley, D. D., Auburn, N. Y.
My Dear Brother :—The invitation to attend the Twenty-fifth anniver-
sary of your pastorate of the First church was this morning received. I regret
more than I can tell you my inability to be present. Imperative duties keep
me at home. The occasion is one which calls for hearty congratulations both
to yourself and more especially to your church. I recall the happy years of my
student life, in Auburn, during which time I sat under your ministry. Should
I say that I was greatly interested and profited by your preaching, it would but
mildly express all I feel. May the Lord bless you, and make the coming years
even more fruitful than the past has been in all that will glorify Him.
Sincerely yours,
RUFUS S. GREEN.56
From Rev. Dr. Geo. A. Howard.
: Catskill, Nov. 3, 1882.
My Dear Charles :—It would give us sincere pleasure, did our duties per-
mit the indulgence, to come bn to beautiful Auburn, and enter into the joy of
your people while they celebrate the Twenty-Fifth anniversary of your installa-
tion as their pastor. We cannot come, but send our hearts. ‘ Cordially we con-
gratulate you, and the wife who’has done not a little to secure and grace your
long success.	1	n
May your silver wedding with your people be as happy as mine was. My
heart has seldom had such a burden of happiness to bear as was then put upon
it/ I think I have been a better man for it ever since.
May the brightest skies bend above you to-morrow ; that there will be sun-
shine in all hearts I do not doubt. I regret that your dear mother could not
have lived to. see the day ; but she does live, and will be there, I think.
With love from us both to your wife and yourself, let me remain,
As ever, yours,
G. A. HOWARD.
To the Rev. Ciias. Hawley, D. D., Auburn, N. Y.
From Rev. Dr. C. E. Robinson.
The Manse of the First Presby. Church.
Rochester, N. Y., Nov. 2, 1882.
To Prof. A. J. Upson, D. D., and others.
Dear Brethren.—I thank you very much for the invitation which I have
received to be present at the reception to be given to Dr. Hawley, on the
Twenty-fifth anniversary of his pastorate of the First Presbyterian Church of
Auburn. It is a real sorrow to me that I cannot be present on such an interest-
ing occasion. I can understand well the reasons for such a. reception, for my
acquaintance and friendship with Dr. Hawley and the honored Old First
Church, cover almost the entire silver span of those twenty-five years ; worship-
ing as I did in that church, under his ministry, while I was a student at the
seminary, and receiving a special impetus to my spiritual life from the precious
prayer meetings in the old Session House.
I remember the baptism of the Holy Spirit that came upon the church in
1858, the first year I was in the Seminary. It was a revelation to me, I had
never been in just such an awakened church. I recall particularly Dr. Hawley’s
powerful discourses at the breaking out of the rebellion, how his wise and
burning words both raised and directed our patriotism. I can see the old
edifice dear undoubtedly to those who worshiped in it, but not worthy of the
church’s history nor position, and when I think of the present splendid building
which has taken its place and try to estimate how much of dear Dr. Hawley’s
life and work, and patience and persistence were wrought into it permanently,
I think of the tablet in St. Paul, to the memory of Sir Christopher Wren, its57
architect,—Si mommentum quaeres circumspice,—and yet the Work of a quarter
of a century of such a man as Dr. Hawley must be found specially,—not in any
building save that one which is going up silently,—God’s grand temple of
human souls ; there is his work under God, and its measure in its noble propor-
tions to the glory of God, can be taken only in eternity.
With heartiest congratulations,
I am cordially yours,
CHARLES E. ROBINSON.
From George, J. Letchworth, Esq.
Buffalo, Nov. 3, 1882.
My Dear Dr. Hawley:—Mrs. Letchworth, Miss Anna and I returned
Wednesday from our farm near Moravia, where we have been spending a short
time. We are sorry that pressing business engagements prevented our remain-
ing any longer for we wished very much to be present at the reception this even-
ing. As we cannot, we desire to express assurances of our sincere affection and
esteem and extend to you most hearty congratulations.
I remember so well the occasion of your installation in the dear old church,
when in the presence of that vast assembly and before your God you assumed
those great responsibilities connected with the Church and Society, which have
been so faithfully discharged.
What grand history the First Church has made since that time, and what an
important part you have borne through it all. I know your modesty deters you
from appropriating your full share of credit, preferring that the Master should
have all the praise. I cannot but believe however, that it is His wish that due
credit be allowed you.
I cannot refrain from alluding to the association of my own family to you dur-
ing the past twenty-five years. You will never know how much your words of
encouragement cheered, me during that period of my life which brought to me
so much of financial misfortune, nor how much you did to support and sustain
me. Neither am I indifferent to the fact of your having exerted a great influ-
ence in forming the character of our children. An influence resulting in much
good to them and happiness to their parents.
For all your kindness in word and deed, and for all the precious memories we
cherish of you as our dearly beloved pastor, and of yourself and Mrs. Hawley
as our prized friends, we are truly grateful to-night, and unite in most hearty con-
gratulations and wishes that nothing may ever come to you or yours but great
good and the richest of God’s blessings.
Your attached friend,
G. J. LETCHWORTH,
In behalf of himself and his family.58
From the Rev. Geo. W. Leonard.
Springfield, Utah, Nov. 23, 1882.
To Prof. A. J. Upson, Dr. S. Willard, Dr. Richard Steel, and others,
committee on invitation.
Dear Brethren I am very grateful for your kind remembrance of me in
this far-off region of spiritual darkness and social degradation, as, in the full
enjoyment of conditions so opposite, you planned to celebrate the quarter-cen-
tury of Dr. Hawley’s installation as pastor of the dear Old First Church.
What a joy it would have afforded me to attend that reception, and unite in
doing honor to my former pastor and my spiritual father.
The first reminiscence of Dr. Hawley’s pastorate that came to mind with your
invitation (so thoughtfully sent me), was a scene witnessed in the old Church soon
after Dr. Hawley’s coming to us. A line of young people extending from about
the middle of the east aisle down past the communion table (spread for the Lord’s
supper), and far up the west aisle—some 80 in all—recent converts, a part of the
fruits of that great revival, all standing about the altar to make public profession
of their faith and enter into covenant with God and his visible church.
In the mercy of God and through the faithfulness of Dr. Hawley and his ear-
nest co-workers, I was one of that number.
I wonder how many of that company met Dr. Hawley on the evening of the
inst. May God bless Dr. Hawley.
I could write much more, for my thoughts are set running on the scenes and
events of former days in connection with the First church, but I will not tres-
pass.	<
Please express to Dr. Hawley my great desire to have been present, and say
to him I love him and entertain feelings of increasing gratitude toward him.
^ In brotherly love,
Your brother in Christ,
GEO. W. LEONARD,
From the Rev. David R. Breed.
House of Hope Pres’n Church,
St. Paul, Minn,, Oct. 31, 1882.
Prof. A. J. Upson, D. D.
My Dear Prof. :—I have received your committee’s thoughtful invitation to
be present at the Twenty-Fifth anniversary of the pastorate of my dear friend
Dr. Hawley. I am grateful to you for remembering me, as your missive recalls
many of the most delightful incidents of my life. When I came to Auburn I
was at once drawn to Dr. and Mrs. Hawley, in both admiration and affection,
and located myself in their congregation. I remained a member of it during my
three years’ course, my love for the pastor and his wife increasing to the close.
They knew how to treat young men—that’s all of it; and by such-examples as
they have afforded I have learned something, I hope, of the qualities which win
the sincere and never failing gratitude of beginners in life.59
Will you extend to them the best wishes and
heart.
Very cordially,
fervent prayers of my deepest
DAVID R. BREED.
From the Rev. J. Wilford Jacks.
Romulus, N. Y., Nov. 4, 1882.
Rev. Dr. Upson.
Dear Brother :—Your kind invitation to attend the services commemorating
the Twenty-Fifth anniversary of the pastorate of the Rev. Dr. Charles Hawley,
was duly received.
But hoping to present my congratulations in person, I sent no regrets. It was
indeed my pleasure last evening to listen to many of the interesting addresses,
but it was necessary for me to leave before the exercises were concluded, to reach
the train.
In common with many other members of the First Presbyterian church of
Auburn, who have entered the ministry, I desire to acknowledge the kindness
and courtesy of the Rev. Dr. Hawley in social relations and my indebtedness to
him for his sound expositions of God’s word.
I trust that it may be many years before he will conclude his earthly labors
with the church, before his mantle shall need to fall upon another. To the last
generation of graduates of Auburn Theological Seminary, the city would not
seem to be Auburn, were Dr. Hawley absent. Please bear to him the kind salu-
tations and best wishes of the writer who respects and loves Dr. Hawley as a
wise counselor, a loving pastor, and a faithful expounder of the divine word.
Yours with respect,
J. WILFORD JACKS.
From the Rev. A. J. Hutton.
405 Clinton St.
Brooklyn, Nov. 7, 1882.
My Dear Dr. and Mrs. Hawley :—I fully intended, since I could not be
present in person, to reply to the kind invitation to your Twenty-Fifth anniver-
sary at once, but it was somehow mislaid and so escaped my recollection for a
few days. It would have given me the greatest pleasure to have been one of
that large company of affectionate friends that gathered last Friday evening to
celebrate so appropriately your twenty-five years of labor among them. I honor
the man who can win and retain the support and sympathy and love of his peo-
ple through so many years, in these days of brief pastorates, and well nigh uni-
versal restlessness on the part of both ministers and churches.
Please accept my somewhat tardy, but none the less hearty congratulations,
and my most earnest wishes that you may both be spared to many more years of
usefulness in your important and delightful field of labor for the common Master.
Very sincerely yours,
ALFRED J. HUTTON.60
From the Rev. G. P. Coit.
Pastor’s Study,
Memorial Presbyterian Church,
Rochester, Nov. 2, 1882.
Drs. Upson, Willard and others, committee on invitations.
Dear Brethrp:n :—While it would give me unusual pleasure to attend the
reception which your people-are to give on th£ occasion of the Twenty-Fifth an-
niversary of Dr. Hawley’s pastorate, yet my work in Rochester will prevent me
from being present. I regret it all the more because the old First Church, I
still regard as my home. It is the only church of which I was really a member.
I have never been able to express the tender emotions which have been mine be-
cause of kindness shown me by the pastor and his admirable wife, and by the
elders, yes, and by all in that noble church. It is no wonder there is this silver
wedding. I believe God is to make its future all golden.
In Christ fraternally yours,
CHARLES P. COIT.
From Hon. Wm. P. Robinson.
Treasury Department,
Office of- the U. S.' Superintendent.
Dalton, Mass., Nov. 1, 1882.
Dear Friend S.:—I am supposing that the invitation to attend the reception
in commemoration of the Twenty Fifth Anniversary of the pastorate of Rev.
Charles Hawley, D. D., was the result of your thoughtfulness. I regret that I
cannot be present to greet him, whom we all delight to honor, and whose ac-
quaintance and friendship have been reckoned by me as among my most precious
possessions.
It was a fortunate day for Auburn and its people, when the good doctor
decided twenty-five years ago, to come to our city. “ Be sure you send us a
good swimmer,” was the direction from a Methodist circuit out west, in want
of a preacher, where streams were high and bridges unknown, and you of the
“ Old First ” must have anticipated the events of Dr. Hawley’s pastorate, when
you made sure of securing a patriot, as well as a Christian, when he came to
your homes. Of a truth, you builded better than you knew. In some way I
have always considered Dr. Hawley as belonging, in a large sense to Auburn,
although you have a priority of claim and may feel jealous of any division in
the ownership. The Historian of the Revolutionary preachers, Dr. Sprague,
says that the profound thoughts found in their sermons show that the clergy were
not a whit behind the ablest statesmen of the day in their knowledge of the
science of human government. In reading them one gets at the pulse of the
people andean trace the steady progress of public sentiment. The war of In-
dependence rested on the pulpit, received its strongest impulses from it ; the
teachings of the pulpit of Lexington caused the first blow to be struck for Amer-61
ican Liberty. How fitting that describes the “ Old First ” pulpit in the struggle
for the Union ! I always think of Dr. Hawley as the foremost, the staunch-
est, the grandest of our pulpit orators in those days of fiery passions. The
first blow of Dr. Hawley’s nerved the aroused, patriotism of our people, while
his second, third and continuous blows, revived, encouraged, sustained and event-
ually carried them through the fiercest struggle for National existence known
in history. He fought the fight ; he kept the Faith—may we not add, reverently,
he will have the crown. There is hardly a public enterprise, touching the wel-
fare of our city in the twenty-five years you celebrate, that Doctor Hawley has
not been identified with, and fostered and helped on. Our secular schools, our
railroad enterprises, all sanitary reforms, whatever touched the public weal, have
felt his influence, while the catholicity of his generous and cultured mind has
led him through the “ leafy aisles ” of boundless forests in search of the records
of the good deeds, great trials and martyrdom of those heroes of another church
and an alien people. The “ Old First ” may claim him as their own—but not
all their own. We all partake of your pride ; we all claim the honor of his
friendship and insist on the privilege of loving and revering him. If in the mul-
tiplicity of congratulations, you have an opportunity, grasp his hand firmly for
me, putting your heart in it.
Your brother,
W. P. ROBINSON.
From the Rev. Fi'ancis A. Horton.
Cleveland, Om Oct. 30, 1882.
To Drs. Upson and Welch, with others.
Dear Brethren :—I have received your cordial and highly esteemed invita-
tion to be present at the reception to be given to my long time friend and brother
Dr. Hawley, on the Twenty-Fifth anniversary of his pastorate of the First Pres-
byterian church of Auburn. Nothing could be more agreeable to me every
way than to accept the same and appear among the rejoicing throng. Such how-
ever is an impossibility, and therefore I send my hearty greetings and sincere
regrets. To have held fast through the stormy days of the war when men who
felt deeply, spoke out loud, thereby removing their own foundations in many in-
stances ; to have held fast through church building, debt accumulating and debt
paying ; to have continued when flattering overtures to remove were held out;
to have demonstrated in the face and eyes and ears of young theologians, pastors,
in embryo, that a short pastorate was not a necessity of the day among cultured
people, to have gained that broad, deep, commanding influence, in Presbytery,
Synod and State, that come only to the long tried and ever true ; to have been
blessed with unvarying good health and never ceasing flow of converts into the
church from the world, all these are matters of profound thankfulness, and I wish
I could be with you to say just what I feel and think ought to be said on that
occasion.*
62
Please read it between these hurried lines and say it to my dear brother with
all your own force and grace of utterance, and make him divide the honor with
Mrs. Hawley.
Very trulv,
FRANCIS A. HORTON.
From John P. Rolfe, Esq.
Brooklyn, Nov. 8, 1882.
Dear Doctor Hawley :—I wish it had been in my power to have been pres-
ent to congratulate you on the occasion of the greeting by your friends on the
Twenty-Fifth anniversary of your pastorate. I had been absent from home un-
til the occasion had passed, but hope that it is not too late for you to accept my sin-
cere thanks for your kind invitation and to assure you that I esteem it a pleasant
event in my life to be reckoned among your neighbors as one of your friends.
My sisters who have just returned from Lake George, desire me to present
their own congratulations to yourself and Mrs, Hawley.
With my best wishes for your long life, health and happiness,
I remain your friend,
s JOHN P. ROLFE.
From the Rev. S. G. Hopkins.
Deposit, N. Y., Nov. 1, 1882.
My Dear Professor :—The invitation, headed by your name to attend the
Twenty-Fifth anniversary of the pastorate of Dr. Hawley, came to me day be-
fore yesterday. How gladly would I accept were it among the possibilities for
me to be present. As it is, the best I can do is to send from my little parish in
the hills, hearty congratulations to both pastor and church. To the pastor, for
this,—that for twenty-five years, without resorting to any tricks or fantastics in
the pulpit or out of it, but by simple, straightforward manliness, he has retained
the love and confidence and favor of the church. To the church, for this,—that
for twenty-five years they have had the good sense to appreciate the rare worth
of the man who has been their pastor, and are holding on to him still. Some
pastorates become, as they lengthen, things to be endured, with the best grace
possible. Others become things to be rejoiced in and prized more and more.
And this, I take it, is the character of that pastorate you propose to honor on
Friday evening.
I think I should always enjoy hearing Dr. Hawley preach, even if he should
speak in the Kamschatkan tongue. It is said that Dr. John Todd, on going out
from church after listening to a missionary oration, the most striking thing about
which was vociferation, said to a friend, “ My brother, God gives to some men
brains, and to others He gives voicesWell, God has given Dr. Hawley a voice♦
63
as rich and deep and sweet as preacher or orator could ask for. More than once
as I have listened to him, I have been guilty of breaking the tenth command-
ment. And the question which Paul asked in regard to the law, became true,
forme in regard to Dr. Hawley,—that which was good in him became sin in me.
But Dr. Todd’s sarcastic utterance is only true in part of Dr. Hawley. God
gave him not only a voice, but also brains. And, hearing Dr. Hawley frequently
as I have, I have always felt that his brains were possessed of two characteristics
that are vitally essential to every preacher. One of my little girls had a doll
once, with an indestructible head. But in speaking of it, she always left out the
little syllable “ de” and called it her dpll “ with the instructible head.” And I
have often thought what a grand thing it would be if every minister could only
have a head of which those two things would be true. ' Judging from the last
sermons I heard from Dr. Hawley, those two things are true of his head. He
has had an “ instructible ” head, and that has kept his preaching fresh. He seems
to have an “ indestructible” head, and that keeps his preaching vigorous. And
so, at the end of all these years of labor in one church, he has not become what
some rascal says most ministers do become, “ platitudinarian, or a latitudina-
rian, or an attitudinarian.”
All honor to him ! The church honors itself in celebrating this anniversary.
For what does this pastorate of twenty-five years mean ? It means that his head
has grown white>in the service of that church. It means that for twenty-five
years from his early manhood, on through the vigor and strength of middle life,
and towards old age, he has labored for that church with a wisdom and earnest-
ness rarely surpassed or equalled, that he has carried it ever on his heart, and
that his one longing and prayer and effort through all has been to develop it
into all that a church redeemed by Christ should be. It means that for twenty-
five years he has “ given his life” to that church, and for it, just as truly as if he
had died for it. It means all this and more,—more than I have time or words to
express. God grant that this pastorate, already so long and rich, may prolong
itself till the time shall come when it must be written of its occupant, that “ de-
vout men carried him to his burial and made great lamentation over him.”
Please shake Dr. Hawley’s hand for me, and give him my hearty congratula-
tions for the past, my best good wishes for the future.
Thanking you again for the invitation to be present, and with very kind re-
gards to yourself and the other members of the committee, I am
Yours very sincerely,
STEPHEN G. HOPKINS.
Rev. Anson J. Upson, D. D., Auburn N. Y.
From the Rev. G. W. Warner.
Canaan 4 Corners, Col. Co., N. Y., Oct. 31, 1882.
Rev. Anson J. Upson and others, committee, etc.
Dear Brethren :—Pardon me for expressing regret that Cayuga Presbyteryt
64
a little more than a quarter of a century since, in fixing the day for installing a
pastor over the First Presbyterian Church of Auburn, did not appoint it just one
week earlier, as in that case your present reception would have exactly met my
convenience. Up to the middle of last week I was in Auburn and could have
remained to the close of it, and most assuredly with the highest pleasure should
have done so, had the anniversary in question occurred then instead of now.
Let me not be understood as finding the least fault with the Presbytery for its
doings twenty-five years ago. That was a glorious meeting that decided then
the question of giving to the First Church the pastor of their choice. “ O si sic-
omnes !” Brother Hawley came to us and to the people whom he has so suc-
cessfully served in a good time. It was a time of the Holy Spirit’s presence and
power. Ministers and candidates for the ministry, with a very goodly company
of the people of a city that has been distinguished for revival blessings, were in-
tensely desirous of having the installation services then contemplated, redound
signally to the glory of God and the best good of all concerned.
I thank you for an invitation that necessarily carries me back to a season of
such spiritual enjoyment and edification. ‘
And now, already fearing an undue strain upon your patience, let me say, that
while in the circumstances it is not at all consistent for me to mingle in the fes-
tivities of Friday evening next, my prayer, sincere and fervent, is that the re-
ception may in all respects be worthy of the end of twenty-five years of labori-
ous pastoral work, and of the beginning of those years be they few or many,
which the Great Head of the church, may in his wisdom, grant to Brother Haw-
ley and his people.
Very respectfully and affectionately,
GEO. W. WARNER.
f
From the Rev. F. L. Robbins, D. D.
538 North Broad St.,
Philadelphia, Nov. i, 1882.
My Dear Dr, Hawley :—I must send the cordial congratulations which I
shall not be able to offer by word of mouth, on the near event of the Twenty-
Fifth anniversary of your pastorate in connection with that Old First Church in
Auburn, whose history is so altogether honorable ; and which will in future
years hold in shining remembrance, yours, amongst other names, distinguished
and revered, not only within the limits of our Presbyterian heritage, but beyond
as well.
I was a student in the Seminary when you came to Auburn, and can recall to
memory some of the first utterances which fell from your lips in the public min-
istration of the Word, and the generally favorable verdict your fine presentation
of truth received from us young Theologians, who were wiser in our own con-
ceit, and more critical in our judgment in those days, doubtless, than any of us
have been since.*
65
No one can doubt, as the eye turns back in review of the quarter of a centu-
ry which has elapsed since that period, that it was a felicitous event, in the line
of “ the eternal fitness of things,” which brought you (with her, whose fulness
of sympathy with you in your work, has largely contributed to make your pas-
torate so eminently useful, and who by unwearied devotion to the practical inter-
ests and work of the church, and that exceptional endowment of temperament,
which disarms criticism, makes for and confirms lasting favor and friendship)
came together.
My dear brother, your environment as a minister of religion, has been, and is,
an enviable one, with far less of the elements of disturbance and depression in
it, than appear in the average experience of pastors. And you have fulfilled the
claims of your position and wrought effectually for the truth, and with tokens of
the signal favor of the sovereign Lord of it.
That the pastorate may continue undissolved for years to come and the bene-
diction of our covenant-keeping God may abide with you and yours and the
people of your charge, is the prayer of yours in the trials and in the triumphs of
the Gospel.	/
FRANCIS L. ROBBINS.
From the Rev. W. J. Seymour..
Holy Family Church.
Auburn, Nov. 3, 1882.
Dear Dr. Hawley :—Tlease accept my congratulations on the occasion of
your celebration of the Twenty-Fifth anniversary in the ministry. You, no doubt,
understand, that the conservatism of our church forbids me to be present. That
your valuable life may be spared “ ad multos annos ” is my sincere wish.
Very respectfully yours,
W. J. SEYMOUR.
From Prof. W. C. Richardson.
Music Department, *
Temple Grove Seminary.
Saratoga Springs, N. Y., Nov. 3, 1882.
Rev. Dr. Charles Hawley.
My Dear Doctor :—I know little of what transpires now in Auburn, but
taking up the Evangelist this morning, I came across the notice of the celebra-
tion which is being held, I suppose, as I write.
May I venture, although outside your fold or intimate circle, to add my hearty
and warm congratulations on an occasion of such deep interest to yourself and to
the church.
66
Surely such a pastorate is no small thing and its anniversary is greeted by no
one more gladly than by one, with the beginning of whose professional life, your
own ever generous and warm hearted words and will, are so intimately connected
in my remembrance.
May God give you many returns of this happy day.
Very truly yours,
W. C. RICHARDSON.
From the Rev. Stephen Hubbell%
New Haven, Conn., Oct. 31, 1882.
To the First Presbyterian Church in A uburn, N. Y.
Brethren Beloved :—Through your Committee on Invitations to the recep-
tion appointed to be held in the First Presbyterian Church in Auburn, N. Y.,
Friday evening, Nov. 3, at 7 o’clock, to commemorate the Twenty-Fifth anni-
versary of Rev. Charles Hawley, D. D., as pastor of said church, please accept
my thanks for your kind invitation to join in the congratulations on the grand
occasion. Believe me in full sympathy with the joy and thanksgiving in which
your hearts are all aglow at this crowning time and place. Would that I could
be with you there to catch the spirit of the scene, but another allotment now
seems to interpose a Providential veto to any trip for me in that direction.
May the good Lord be with you and cause his face to shine upon you as you
go back amid the vanished years and retrace the way in which He has led you.
That will indeed be a glorious retrospect, as well as an encouraging sign of still
better things to come from his abiding presence.
Yours in Christian love,
STEPHEN HUBBELL.
From the Rev. Dr. J. Glentworth Butler.
846 Prospect Place,
Brooklyn, Nov. 2, 1882.
My Dear Dr. Hawley :—Very heartily do I add my warm congratulations
to those of the multitude of your friends, for the gracious Providence that has
permitted you to fulfill so long, so honorable, so useful and delightful a ministry
in Auburn.
Were it at all practicable it would give me great pleasure to take yourself and
Mrs. Hawley by the hand and express more strongly the friendly wishes of my
heart, that God may crown even so rich and fruitful a past with a yet more
blessed future.
All through the period of your Catskill sojourn, it was in my thought to ask
you to come through to my little alp on the summit (near Pine Hill) and tarry a
few days, but circumstances prevented. If we are spared until another year I■f
67
shall surely expect you with Mrs. Hawley, at our cottage on the hill-side which
stands exactly on the level of the dear old Mountain House.
With kindest regards to Mrs. Hawley, I remain
Yours most cordially,
J. GLENTWORTH BUTLER.
From the Rev. Dr. Geo. Hale.
1334 Chestnut St.,
Philadelphia, Pa., Nov. i, 1882.
Rev. Charles I-Iawley, D. D.
My Dear Friend and Brother:—The kind invitation of the Rev. Dr.
Upson and others, committee on the Twenty-Fifth anniversary of your pastorate
at Auburn, has been received. It brings to mind many recollections of the past,
in connection with yourself and with Catskill, the place of our birth and home.
I knew you in your childhood as a lad of unblemished character, obedient to
parents, and have followed you with interest in the various changes which have
marked your course.
In the month of September 1836, I examined you and Augustus Cornwall for
admission to the Freshman class in Williams College, and the decided impression
left on my mind is that you both acquitted yourselves most creditably.
Your honored father was my first teacher in the Sabbath School, which I en-
tered at the age of five years. He continued as teacher for several years, faith-
ful and punctual, always interesting, and warmly attached to his class, as his
class was also to him. On one occasion he called our attention to an able and
lucid sermon preached that morning in the pulpit of the Presbyterian Church
by Dr. Sereno E. Dwight. The subject was “ natural and moral inability,”
stating that man’s natural ability consisted in the faculties given him by God, for
the right use of which he was responsible, and that his inability for holy affec-
tions and holy acts, was the fruit of sin. Like these were some of my earliest
lessons in Theology.
Such was my regard for your excellent father and your lovely mother, that it
was my uniform habit to call upon them on my return home during the vacations
of College and Theological Seminary.
Your grandfather Noyes was an occasional visitor at Catskill. One of his ser-
mons, on the words “ God forbid that I should glory save in the cross of our Lord
Jesus Christ,” drew my special attention. It was delivered with much fervor and
pathos, indicating that it was with him a favorite theme. “ He was a good man
and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith.” He was goodness personified. But
these saints are now in glory with our venerated pastor, Dr. David Porter, Mrs.
Ruth Croswell and other fathers and mothers in Israel, who, in their day, were
pillars in the church of God.
Said the Rev. Andrew Fuller to his friend Dr. Ryland, “ grace does not run
in the blood.” “ But,” replied Dr. R., “ it does run in the line,” and it may be68
added that it does run in the line of the covenant, that “ everlasting covenant
ordered in all things and sure.”
“ Your boast is not that you derive your birth
From loins enthroned or princes of the earth,
But higher far, your proud pretensions rise,
The son of parents passed into the skies.”
God be praised that he called you by his grace, and “ counted you faithful,
putting you into the ministry,” and that He has made you so eminently useful.
Long may you live to work for your Lord and Master. May “[your bow abide
in strength and the arms of your hands be made strong by the hands of the
mighty God of Jacob.”
I wish I could be with you on this happy occasion. May you have a pleasant
and profitable season crowned with the blessing of God.
Ever yours,
GEORGE HALE.
From Wm. G. Cox, Esq.
Mobile, Ala., Nov. 3. 1882.
Dear Doctor :—I remember well the cloudy November day that I first met
you and Mrs. Hawley, and all the incidents of getting the house ready, &c., &c.,
are quite easy to recall, except the realization of the fact that it was twenty-
five years ago.
In that period, so many have passed away who were among those to welcome
you, and' so many have come on the stage, that I feel I have a quasi right to
welcome and congratulate you and Mrs. Hawley over again.
I remember the Sunday morning of Fort Sumter, and the news of its sur-
render, and how it looked in the old church when all stood up and sang, on
receipt of the news, “The Star Spangled Banner.” I was so excited that I could
hardly keep wind in the organ ; I was the “ artist ” at the bellows in those days.
Sometimes I got interested in something else during hymn time and then father
who was in the choir, would do a little “ blowing ” in stage whispers.
What must be your feeling when you look down on the congregation next
Sunday—what visions—shadowy faces of those you have known and loved, by
whom in years past, your labors have been encouraged, whose advice may have
strengthened you in perplexing moments, venerable men and women rising up
before you, bringing a flood of recollections as you face their places. The sub-
stantial evidenpes of their presence in the past and your own arduous labors,
now crowned by the completion of twenty-five years of constant thought and
work, will be all around you, and to see, in part, what you have accomplished
—circumspice—but a better part, you nor any, can know in this life.69
The satisfaction you must feel, in the continuing love and affection of your
people, seems to me, most justly, your due, and in the numerous congratulations
of those who have known you so long, and love you because they have known
you long and well—I ask leave to extend mine, and to express the wish that the
same blessing and success, the same love and confidence may attend you here-
after as in the past.
Sincerely your friend,
Wm. C. COX.
Rev. Chas. Hawley, D. D., Auburn, N. Y.
From the Rev. E. Benedict.
Genoa, N. Y., Nov. 3, 1882.
• Beloved Members of the First Presbyterian Church of Auburn, N.
Y.:—Permit me most heartily to congratulate you upon this auspicious occa-
sion. Though never a member with you, yet the circumstances of my life have
made me very familiar with much of your history.
In the autumn of 1830 I came to Auburn to spend the winter, just after Fath-
er Hopkins had been installed, and it was during that winter in connection with
the first three days meeting held there that I accepted the covenant which my
parents had made concerning me in my infancy, and gave my own heart to God.
What a wonderful scene was witnessed during that week, one hundred con-
versions in a village of three thousand inhabitants. What intense convictions,
too deep for weeping. What clear evidence of conversion. During those three
days, I think on the evening of the second day, I heard for the first time in my life,
an invitation given for any who desired prayers for themselves, to manifest it by
rising. I cannot describe the scene in the old Session House which was nearly
full each morning. I call to mind that tall bent form of Father Hopkins, with
long lines upon his face, which, though full of joy, carried also the expression of
sadness. I remember some of those elders who labored with and held up his
hands, among others Theodore Spencer, Mr. Pease, Mr. Reed, Mr. Hotchkiss,
Mr. Seymour, and him whose lengthened years cast such a halo upon this de-
lightful autumn.
Soon Mr. Finney came whose services twice on the Sabbath and twice during
the week, I enjoyed very much for several weeks. I was present when one
hundred and thirty.of the converts were at one time admitted to the communion
of the church. I lived also in Auburn during the next winter, when for two
weeks Rev. Daniel A. Clark preached for a fortnight, day and evening, and a
goodly number of souls were added to the Lord. Then during my Seminary
course from eighteen thirty-seven to eighteen forty, I commonly worshiped with
the church which was still under the pastorship of Father Hopkins, who was
then called Dr. Hopkins. Some time during those years Rev. J. I. Avery, then
of Leroy, held a series of meetings here, with some good results, and afterwards
Rev. Samuel G. Orton, from Western New York, with still better results and
more permanent.70
Dr. H. A. Nelson followed Dr. Hopkins, whom I first saw at the time of his
graduation at Hamilton College, and with whom I have had the pleasure of be-
ing more or less acquainted from the time of his Seminary course and settle-
ment here, although we have never belonged to the same Presbytery.
With your present pastor my acquaintance began when he was at Lyons, from
which time we have been in the same Synod, and for the past fifteen years we
have shared in the work and privileges of Cayuga Presbytery, he in this great
First Church, and I upon one of the outposts, and very pleasant has ever been
our intercourse and greatly prized by myself.
Brethren, the period over which I have taken you is so long that we are re-
minded that at least with some of us the journey is almost finished. Let us
through faith be assured that henceforth there is laid up for us a crown of right-
ousness which the Lord will give to us as he will to all who love his appearing.
E. BENEDICT.
From the Rev. B. I. Ives, D. D.
Syracuse, N. Y., Nov. 3, 1882.
Hon. Jas. R. Cox.
Dear Sir :—Please express my heartfelt regrets to my dear friend and broth-
er, Rev. Dr. Hawley, that I cannot attend the congratulatory meeting this even-
ing. I am greatly disappointed but it cannot be helped. I hope and expect
you will have a grand time. May our Father in Heaven give the Doctor twenty-
five years more to do good work for the Master. Amen.
Yours truly,
B. I. IVES.
Letters of response were also received from Messrs. Elbert J. Roosevelt,
Pelham, N. Y. ; John J. Thomas, Union Springs, N. Y. ; Hon. Elias S. Plawley,
Ogden P. Letch worth and Rev. William S. Hubbell, Buffalo, N. Y. ; Hon. Jno.
Hill, Boonton, N. J. ; Edward S. Esty, Esq, and Rev. M. Woolsey Stryker,
Ithaca, N. Y., Rev. Messrs. G. P. Sewall, Troy, Pa. ; W. A. Barr, Aurora, N.
Y. ; William Waith, Lancaster, N. Y. ; Cassius E. Dibble, Perry, N. Y. ; Hon.
J. J. Belden, Syracuse, N. Y.; Messrs. S. Sherwood Day, Henry B. Hill, Fred-
erick Hill, Catskill, N. Y. ; Edmund S. Hawley, Esq., Bridgeport, Ct. ; Mrs.
F. M. Terrill, Hartford, Ct.; Mr. and Mrs. John J. Letchworth, Chicago, 111 ;
Mr. and Mrs. Morris K. Jessup, New York ; Mr. and Mrs. D. Ogden Bradley
Dobbs Ferry, N. Y. ; Mr. and Mrs. John Hand, Mr. and Mrs. Archibald
McClure, Albany; Mr. and Mrs. D, M. Hough, Rochester ; Mr. and Mrs. John
T. Clark, Portage, Wis.; Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Dicksop, Mr. and Mrs. George
Harding, Philadelphia, Pa.OFFICIAL ACTION.
At the first regular meeting of the Church Session, subse-
quent to the observance of the anniversary, held Nov. 27,1882,
the following resolutions were adopted:
1.	Resolved, That the Session of the First Presbyterian
Church of Auburn, N. Y., hereby records its high appreciation
of the Christian courtesy of the Rector, the Wardens, and the
Vestrymen of St. Peter’s Church in this city, in their graceful
salutation and congratulation to this Church on the recent
completion of the twenty*fifth year of its present pastoral
relation.
2.	Resolved, That we gratefully acknowledge their high
tribute to the personal character of oitr pastor and the accom-
panying expression of their good will towards our communion,
and of their hearty Christian fellowship in our common aim for
the extension of the Redeemer’s Kingdom.
3.	Resolved, That we hereby tender to the beloved Rector
of St. Peter’s and to its official Boards our entire reciprocation
of their cordial greeting, and our earnest desire that the tem-
poral and spiritual prosperity which has so uniformly charac-
terized its present Rectorship, shall increase more and more, un-
til it shall be reviewed under the silver light of a u Quarter Cen-
tury’s Anniversary.”
4.	Resolved, That an official copy of this minute be trans-
mitted to the Reverend John Brainard, D. D., Rector of St.
Peter’s Church.
At the same meeting of the Church Session, a committee,
consisting of Elders Sylvester Willard, William E. Hughitt and72
Richard Steel, was appointed to draft a; minute for Sessional
record, in reference to the completion of the Twenty-Fifth year
of the pastoral relation of Rev. Charles Hawley, D. D., with this
church and congregation. The committee subsequently made
their report, which was adopted and is as follows:	'
Whereas, The Rev. Charles Hawley, D. D., has recently
completed the twenty-fifth year of his pastorate with this people,
a period comprising more than one-third of the entire history of
this church, therefore
Resolved, That this Session recognizing the Providential direc-
tion of our Pastor to this pulpit, unite with him in devout
thanksgiving to God, for the preservation of his life and health,
and for the measure of strength given him for the arduous
duties of his ministry.
Resolved, That the erection of this beautiful sanctuary; the
enlarged benevolence of the church; the maintenance of its
numbers notwithstanding the organization of other churches of
this denomination, and the prevailing harmony of its member-
ship, are all honorable features of this long ministry of our
Pastor.
Resolved, That with our affectionate congratulations, we also
tender to our Pastor an unswerving support in every effort he
shall hereafter make to bring this church to a higher plane of
spiritual prosperity, that he may thus be enabled to make full
proof of his ministry, and this entire communion become in-
creasingly fruitful to the glory of the Great Head of the Church.
JAMES SEYMOUR, Jr.,
Clerk.TWENTY-FIFTH ANNUAL SERMON.
Now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.
I. Thess. iii: 8.
There are single expressions of the great apostle, speaking of
himself and his work, which I would not presume to use on this
occasion. There are aspects of his life as separated unto the
Gospel, of which scarcely nothing is now known in the labors
and relations of the Christian ministry. But when this heroic
man speaks as in the text, he comes down to our level. We
know what he means. His life touches ours in the common
sympathies that unite minister and people.
In completing a quarter of a century of pastoral service with
this church, I have learned how true it is : “ Now we live, if ye
stand fast m, the Lord.” No man can hold such a position for
such a length of time, except as he is upheld by the steadfast
faith in Christ and devoted living of those to whom he is called
to minister. He must know that the ground on which he
stands is solid, not only, but that .the forces back of. him are to
be trusted. It is not his living, but his life with all that enters
into the success and dignity of his work, that is thus staked
upon what they to whom he is thus 'related, are to him. His
is a consecrated life. He must be ready for any sacrifice which
his work exacts, without complaint or compromise, for the sake
of Christ and the interests of the church he serves.
I endeavored in the few sentences spoken at the public recep-
tion which anticipated our service this morning, and over-
whelmed me with tokens of regard and kindness, to say what
this people had been to me in all these years; and now, I could
only repeat in calmer phrase, my lasting obligations for the
steady and willing support you have given this pastorate inter-74
woven with unnumbered acts of esteem and confidence, culmin-
ating in that ever memorable scene. All this has grown, not
out of my persomal intercourse with you as a friend, a neighbor,
a citizen or a public servant, but from my relations with you as
your pastor, entrusted with the highest and holiest function
man can perform for his fellow. It is because., we have united
so often in these acts of divine worship; in this communion
with the word of God; in this fellowship of ordinances and
sacraments ; in seasons of hallowed sympathy, times of sickness
and suffering, or of bereavement and sorrow; because I have
met you with your babes at the baptismal font; stood with you
here or in your homes to seal the vows of blessed wedlock, or
said the last words at the graves of your beloved dead—because
of these things, of our holy faith, that so intertwine our lives
and give sacredness to every human interest, that you would
thus put distinction upon this anniversary. Again, I thank
each and all, not more for the gratification this has been to me
than for the honor thus given to the pastoral relation.
This church has existed seventy-one years. It was the out-
growth of the pastorate of Bev. David Higgins, with the
church of Aurelius, already of some years standing and which
included Auburn within its bounds. Here also its founder
resided for the larger part of his ministry, with the mother
church located more centrally, as the town was then constituted.
He was a man of cultured gifts; sound and distinctive in his
doctrinal views, with New England ideas, and methods which
had much to do in determining at its critical period, the char-
acter of both the church and the town. As the earliest settled
minister on the ground, he attracted to his support the best ele-
ments of the thriving settlement irrespective of religious prefer-
ences, and drew around him the men of enterprise and foresight
who believed in the church and the school as essential to the
best type of morals and manners. Every movement for the
spiritual and social improvement of the place was conceived and
carried out in a generous way. The congregation here, from its
separate organization, assumed the entire support of its minis-75
ter, and received his whole time, previously divided among
several distinct settlements within his parish. I have seen the
original subscription for his salary which for single sums and
the gross amount is most creditable, and shows the liberal esti-
mate in which the preaching of the Gospel, with its allied agen-
cies was held by the men and women who took part in the
establishment of this church. It began its life as a giver and
though feeble in numbers and narrow in resources, created
about itself kindred institutions, which its own existence made
necessary, and which in turn reacted for its life and growth.
The work done makes no show on the register of church mem-
bership. Judged by that standard it would hardly claim atten-
tion. Periods of sacrifice and devotion must wait upon time
for results. The structure, thus provided with a well laid foun-
dation, will ere long take on proportions.
Since the time of which I am speaking, the church'has had
four completed pastorates. The first, that of the Rev. Heze-
kiah 1ST. Woodruff, which continued but three years, syn-
chronises the second war with Great Britain, the distracting
influences of which were alike unfavorable to commerce, to
morals and religion. The membership of the church made
slow increase. There was nothing approaching a revival. I
judge the worthy pastor, who was also an excellent preacher,
did not favor special effort in that direction, but held a taut
rein upon all tendencies to diverge from established methods.
He was a man of cultured habit, of positive convictions, and
sincere devotion to his work; but was compelled, to resign his
charge, involved as he became in a local excitement which
divided the village and threatened the peace of the church. It
must be remembered, however, that it was during this brief
and disturbed ministry, thus abruptly terminated, that the first
church edifice a model of architectural beauty, and for half a
century a center of spiritual life and power, was begun and
completed. It marked the first important epoch, in the history
of the church, and prepared the way for the brilliant opening of
its second pastorate with the facilities for new and large acces-76
sions of strength, corresponding with the growth of the village
in numbers and position. The patient sacrifice and waiting
faith, of the first six years of preparation, are soon to find their
great reward.
The new pastor, Revr Dirck C. Lansing, like both his pred-
ecessors, was a graduate from the foremost college of the land,
but unlike them was neither of Puritan descent nor of New
England habit, but a scion of one of the early and most dis-'
tinguished Dutch families of New York. Born to wealth and
ancestral renown, ardent in temperament, and eloquent of speech,
his passion was to save souls, and to this end he bent the whole
energy of his fervid ministry. Revival followed revival in rapid
succession through more than the first half of his pastorate,
which continued twelve years, resulting in a large increase in
the membership and lifting the church 'into singular promi-
nence. Its more permanent results are with us to-day, in the
Theological Seminary, established during its third year, and the
Second Presbyterian church, founded just after its close, leav-
ing the congregation diminished in numbers but more united
in sentiment as to methods of administration.
The third pastorate, that of Rev. Josiah Hopkins, was filled
by a man who had not passed, through the training of the
schools, but had sustained his previous ministry with great
acceptance in the immediate vicinity of a New England College.
He was a close reasoner, a plain, strong preacher, a kind pas-
tor, a single-hearted, solid man. At the very outset, his minis-
try here caught the spirit of the great revival which broke
simultaneously over the whole country, without regard to
measures or special agencies, and swept the churches like the
breath from the four winds, which the prophet invoked upon
the slain in the valley of vision. How far the great awakening
gave its characteristics to this pastorate, I would not say; but it
was followed at intervals by special means to quicken religious
interest, and in each instance it was through the agency of
evangelists, an order of men devoted to that particular work.
This was a departure from the usage of previous years, if we17
except a single instance, in a revival less fruitful of additions to
the church than airy of the several that had preceded it con-
ducted solely by pastoral agency. In the more elaborate his-
tory, prepared some years since, I have characterized this as
the era of evangelism, in which the fervor and directness of
the revivalist was combined with the more instructive, edifying
and conservative teaching of the skillful pastor.
A period of thirty-five years, or the first half of the life of the
church, as we look back to-day, had elapsed, and the fourth
pastorate, that of Eev. Henry A. Nelson, opened with new and
important changes—changes which came of necessity rather
than design. There was a variation from methods which had
lost their freshness, if not their vitality, and it became the order
to seek church growth less from special and temporary effort
than in the steady use of the appointed and accepted instru-
mentalities, with more of system in pastoral supervision.
The pastor, unlike the men who had preceded him, entered
upon this pastoral charge without ministerial experience, and
fresh from his preparatory studies; and for that reason, it may
be, was the better fitted to meet the conditions of a transition
service. It is a mistake to suppose that the minister creates such
conditions. They are in the air ; they meet him, environ him,
press him on all sides, and he gives best proof of his ministry
who most wisely adapts himself and his work to its conditions,
and directs what he cannot resist. It would have been strange
if things settled at once, into the new order without some
restless misgivings. Transition periods are not without their
perils, and religious associations are tenacious of their hold upon
the past. But without jar or disturbance the old gave place to
the new : and together the church and its youthful pastor
wrought with earnest devotion and in steadfast zeal; together
grew in grace and in strength until, after ten years of mutual
fidelity and loving respect, he was transferred at the call of the
country, scarcely less than of the church, to a more responsible
pulpit, and to meet a more weighty crisis, only to win larger
successes.	-78
Such have been in brief the four already completed pastorates
in our history as a church—and they present some suggestive
lessons. These good and noble men were not all after one
mould. They did not repeat one another. Neither could have
done the work of the other so well; and could we group them
in imagination, as each stood in his marked characteristics, or
did their statues adorn our sanctuary after the manner of patron
saints, we would find that they differed not more in figure and
feature than in gift and method. This individuality, so strongly
impressed on their several pastorates with uniformity in spir-
itual life and growth, is very instructive. It is diversity with
unity and shows how the church in all these years of change
and varied ministration, was held by the one faith in the one
spirit to the one aim of building itself up in the order of the
Gospel, so that these devoted men lived and will continue to
live in the joy and success of their work, because those whom
they served stood fast in the Lord. ;
Then, too, we see the value of the pastoral relation. This
has made the old First Church all it has been in the past. It
has given it character, stability, breadth of influence. No fitful
miscellaneous ministry, however ardent or spiritual, could have
done this. This church would have made no such record, writ-
ten on thousands of lives and engraven on so many hearts, if
indeed, it would not have dwindled into insignificance.
Neither let us forget the lesson that religion is not to be
hampered by method. It will be free to take on or throw off
measures or agencies to suit the time and the work, to hold fast
the ground or break forth in new triumphs. It is a poverty
stricken faith that is ever looking for God to repeat himself
after one fashion, as if His grace were restricted to a single in-
vention and His power to save inoperative unless belted to the
same machinery. Tactics may change and the battle for right-
eousness lose no ground, but be advanced to larger victories.
Old lights may be extinguished, new lights be kindled; but the
flame of the true light burns on with unquenchable brightness,
to attract, guide and save. Revivals of pure religion are its fl ash -
*79
ings in greater brilliancy, and are the promise of what will be,
when the church, true to her mission, reflects in the purity of
her life and steadiness of her zeal, the light of her Lord. Let
us be grateful for every such outburst of saving power in the
past, but let us not. be satisfied. Our need is deeper than then,
and our faith ought to rise higher than ever into the fullness,
even, of the promise “Behold, I make all things new.”
It does not become me to speak of the existing pastorate
with the freedom I have indulged in reviewing the work of my
predecessors. This must be left to others. More has already
been said of it than I would be willing to say. But whatever as-
pect it may assume in the clear, cold light which some day will be
thrown upon it, what abides will not be what has most attracted
passing attention, but what has been built into character and
become a part of the enduring life of the church itself. Happy
for me, if it shall abide that test. It has already been subject
to time and wasting change. But few remain of those who took
active part in bringing me here, and welcomed the stranger to
their Christian confidence. Many of the prominent figures that
stood around me with their counsel and help from the first are no
more seen among us. I recall their forms and faces only to be
grateful for their memories. Their compeers who survive are
growing watchful of the Bridegroom’s step, with their lamps
trimmed and burning. They know my gratitude for their
steadfast support, their loyal devotion, considerate forbearance,
and personal kindness. I find myself ministering to another
congregation from that which greeted me a quarter of a century
ago. The membership of the church has more than twice re-
peated itself in numbers within that time, and I have followed
to the grave as many as are accustomed to gather in this house
at a Sabbath morning service.. I look over the city which has
increased nearly threefold its population, and similar changes
meet the eye. The leading men in business, in the professions,
in the large enterprises and public institutions, have, almost all,
retired from active work, or are numbered with the dead. • In
the meanwhile, the signs of thrift and material prosperity80
abound. Never was the enterprise of our citizens so intelligent
or conducted with more of honor, integrity and fair dealing
between man and man. The churches have at the same time
increased in proportionate number and strength. A whole
circle of Christian charities have come into being, enlisting heart
and hand in the varied work of doing good. There has been
no time within my knowledge of Auburn, when there were so
many active, faithful workers, or so much of honest, Christ-like
work done, day in and day out, among all classes of people and
over such a wide field of benevolent sympathy. Many of these
forms of Christian effort were unknown among us a generation
ago. They are all the outgrowth of a more vigorous, compact
church life which multiplies its methods as the need is appre-
hended. They also give practical illustration of the scope of
our Christianity, while they serve to unite different churches in
closer relations of mutual esteem and fellowship.
I have not shared the fears so often expressed that piety is
on the decline and religion is losing its power. That certain
types of religious experience have passed away, and that phases
of doctrine prominent awhile ago, are giving place to others of
the same Gospel, I am ready to admit and without regret. But'
that piety in its spirit, or religion in its essential power, are on
the wane, I do not believe. I am' quite willing that the stand-
ard of spiritual life in vogue thirty years ago, should be recon-
sidered and compared both with Bible teaching and the new
social conditions which surround us. That it will be found in
all respects to measure the one, or competent for the other,
I have serious doubts. We need a higher standard. We need
a religion that runs, if not less to experiences, more to conduct.
We need a spirituality more prayerful, and more wise in the
means of grace, to grasp and control common life and fairly
adjust the claims of both worlds ; that can be diligent in busi-
ness and fervent in spirit; that can .meet the claims of social
intercourse and keep to the integrities of a Christian profession;
that can care for the body and save the soul; that can provide
for time and live for eternity. If our religion is not competent81
for this, it will, like the salt that has lost its savor, be cast out
as worthless, to be trodden under foot of men. We need a
standard of piety, good not for the seventeenth but for the nine-
teenth century. And whatever readjustments of Christain doc-
trine to life that involves, we must accept.
Then,-too, if science enlarges our knowledge of nature and
of man, it will, serve also to exalt our thoughts of God. It
may clear religion of some of its follies and extravagances, but
it can never supplant it. It has already done much to re-
move the pressure of outward evils ; to convert the destruc-
tive forces of nature into beneficent powers and ppen the path
for the freer development of mind. But can it nourish the
hopes and. guide the beliefs of the moral and spiritual be-
ing? Take away the living word of God, appealing to what
is deepest in man ; the revealing glimpses it opens into the di-
vine and the infinite which alone comport with the needs and
dignity of the human* soul, invested with an imperishable life,
and we are left in the dark with the problem which such a des-
tiny imports. Matthew Arnold, the prophet of the modern
spirit that is to pour “ sweetness and light ” upon men, still holds
to the Bible as “ the most precious of books and the noblest of
all literatures.” And Mr. Tyndall, who has a right to speak of
the possibilities of science, records the confession : “ It is not in
hours of clearness and vigor that the doctrine of material athe-
ism commends itself to the mind; but that in the presence of
stronger and healthier thought, itself ever dissolves and disap-
pears as offering no solution to the mystery in which we dwell.”
Here is the common want. The same multitude are seeking
to-day, as in Judea -tKrteen centuries ago, for that on which
their hearts can Test. Have we to give what they seek ? This
preaching of Christ is no formal and hackneyed repetition of
worn out statements that have lost'their freshness and power. Is
it so, then, that we cannot ip, the churches and with the meth-
ods now in use, draw living water from the wells of salvation,
for the thirst of toiling, care-worn men, on Sunday? Has our
Gospel become a luxury, for the few rather than a necessity for82
all? I am not the only pastor in Auburn troubled with such
questions. Like other growing cities and manufacturing towns,
we have an increasing population who shun the churches.
There must be a way to their confidence. True, we deal with
a Gospel which depends for success upon invisible forces. To
convert, it must be in demonstration of the Spirit and with pow-
er. But are not these artizans, mechanics, workers of various
fabrics, also dealing with invisible forces outside of themselves,
the most potent and terrific, but which properly adapted to ap-
propriate machinery are as flexile to human purposes as one’s
own right arm to the wiH that moves it at pleasure ? I thought
of this the other day, as I was shown through the several de-
partments of one of the largest of our manufacturing establish-
ments and saw the hundreds of workmen, each at his post, do-
ing with comparative ease what otherwise the combined strength
of his fellows would not enable him to do, and all because of a
mighty force, omnipresent, invisible as the air, and impalpable
as the light. What need, thought I, to strip the Gospel of a
single feature, which exalts God, and humbles man, to render
it more acceptable to these trained and practical believers in the
ponderous, unseen agencies of which they are constantly avail-
ing themselves, at the minimum of their own strength? Ought
there not to be a fascination rather than repulsion in a religion
which makes what we do for our salvation of worth, because it
is God who worketh in us both to will and to do ?
I must leave many things unsaid this morning. But if we
are spared of God to labor together for time to come, we will
talk over these things and pray for light and courage to take
the path of duty as God shall open it. Let us seek to be led of
the Spirit, not in our way, but as He would lead, and as He will
lead, if we will commit ourselves to His guidance. Let us make
the most of the agencies we have ; and remembering the trust
given us to keep—a trust that has come down to us. covered
with the seals and signatures of faithful ones passed into the
skies, let us renew our vows and our consecration to the holy
work until, in our turn, we shall be called one after another, in-
to the presence of the Shepherd and Bishop ol our souls.