First l/resbyt^nai? 
 
 :^mauel] (;f^iir^l^, pa. 
 
Shelf. 
 
 PRINCETON, N. J. 
 
 BX^211~Tm38 W42 1895 
 Webster, Elizabeth. 
 History of the First 
 Presbyterian Church of 
 
T^^ms. 
 
 
 . ^ n: 
 
HISTORY 
 
 OF THE 
 
 First Presbyterian Church, 
 
 OF 
 
 MAUCH CHUNK, PA., 
 
 BY 
 
 ELIZABETH ^^^EBSTER. 
 
 A RECORD OF SIXTY YEARS. 
 
 Tke Lord hath done great things for us ; whereof we are glad."— Ps. 126-3. 
 
 MAUCH CHUNK, PA. 
 November i, 1895. 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 The record of the work of the Spirit of God, and the 
 lives which were Providential instruments in that work, 
 devout minds, everywhere, love to cherish. The children 
 of God find that their faith is strengthened, their contin- 
 uance in prayer is quickened, and their devotion to duty 
 is awakened when they look upon the unassailable evi- 
 dences of the seasons of grace, which have come to this 
 community and descended to them from their own fathers 
 
 With that end in view, the Session of the First Pres- 
 byterian Church, of Mauch Chunk, Pa., desire to place 
 in the hands of the members and friends of the Church 
 and congregation, her history from the day of her organi- 
 zation to the present time. Into the life and growth of this 
 Church, are interwoven many loved names and precious 
 memories. The recital of these facts will, undoubtedly, 
 bring vividly to the memory of many the stirring events 
 of years ago, and also, with them, many other names and 
 incidents, which it is impossible to place within the limits 
 of this book. It is our earnest desire that this work may be 
 richly blessed to the Church and people, and, from it, may 
 the present and coming generations realize more fully the 
 rich heritage which God has bequeathed to them in this 
 Church in which their fathers worshipped and learned to 
 
IV. PREFACE. 
 
 love and serve the Saviour, for, ** Surely the Lord is in this 
 place." 
 
 No one could have been better adapted to prepare this 
 work than Miss Elizabeth Webster; being herself actively 
 identified with the work of the Church, and, above all, the 
 daughter of the godly man and devoted servant of Christ, 
 who was the first pastor. The Session therefore requested 
 her to prepare this history, and the readiness with which she 
 entered upon, and the zeal with which she prosecuted the 
 work, evidenced that to her it was truly a labor of love. 
 
 This history, written and published by order of the 
 Session, is issued with the prayer that God's grace be out- 
 poured upon our beloved Church. 
 
 Rev. Duncan M. Buchanan, 
 
 Moderator. 
 
 First Presbyterian Church, 
 
 Mauch Chunk, Pa., 
 
 Nov. I, j8gS' 
 
FJKST FRES/n TJiRJAX CHURCH. 
 
HISTORY 
 
 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 
 
 MAUCH CHUNK, PA 
 
 fl^Jj HEN the forty years of weary wandering in 
 the wilderness were over, and the great hosts 
 of Israel were ready to enter the Promised 
 Land, they encountered one more obstacle. 
 Between them and Canaan, the river Jordan, 
 then at its greatest height, rushed past. By 
 the Divine Hand of Omnipotence, those waters 
 were held back until all had crossed safely. Before the 
 mighty waters were permitted to return to their wonted 
 place, the Lord commanded Joshua to have twelve stones 
 taken from the river bed and carried to the first encamp- 
 ment, there to be set up for a ''memorial unto the chil- 
 dren of Israel forever." In future years, as other gener- 
 
HISTORY OF THE 
 
 ations looked on that strange heap of stones they would be 
 ti;ld tlie wonderful story of the passage over Jordan that 
 the Lord's guidance of His people might be in perpetual 
 remembrance. In our town stands a Church which is pe- 
 culiarly dear to all who are or have been in its communion. 
 Sixty years ago the First Presbyterian Church of Mauch 
 Chunk was organized, and to-day we tell ho^v it was 
 founded in strong faith, earnest prayers, loving zeal, and 
 ardent hopes that it might prove a memorial of the Lord's 
 goodness to His people here. In recounting that history 
 it has been thought best to dwell especially upon the early 
 years which have so largely influenced and determined the 
 character of our beloved Church. ''We little know the 
 anxieties, the prayers of agony, the denials, the sacrifices 
 that are wrought in the foundations of this Church.'"^ It 
 is also a record of victorious, overcoming faith, of un- 
 shaken trust in the covenant-keeping Jehovah, and in His 
 care of His Church. 
 
 As we read this history may we realize as never before 
 the priceless heritage our fathers have committed to us. 
 Let us guard it with reverence and love, that we may give 
 it to the next generation as pure, as holy as we received it 
 from its founders. 
 
 In a sermon preached in this Church by the Pastor, 
 Rev. Edsall Ferrier, D. D., in November, 1876, he says: 
 
 *Dr. Ferrier's Historical Sermon. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 7 
 
 ^'Previous to the year 181S, the place where this town now 
 stands was an unbroken wilderness. The first coal oper- 
 ations in our vicinity were begun that year. In 1830 there 
 were only seven hundred inhabitants in the town, and by 
 the census of 1840 only twelve hundred; so that it is no 
 reflection on the missionary spirit of our Church that the 
 Presbytery did not effect an organization until 1835." 
 Before that date, however, the needs of the coal fields 
 of Pennsylvania were pressing upon the hearts of some 
 of God's people who were anxious to undertake mis- 
 sionary work there. The request for the organization 
 of a Presbyterian Church in Mauch Chunk came before 
 the Presbytery of Newton, in 1835. ^'^ November, 1867, 
 that Presbytery celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of its 
 organization, and the historical discourse was delivered by 
 the Rev. David X. Junkin, D. D. In tiiat sermon he gives 
 the following interesting account of his visit to Mauch 
 Chunk, the organization of the Church, and a brief sketch 
 of its usefulness and the work it accomplished in our vi- 
 cinity. '^Perhaps the most interesting field ever entered 
 by the missionary zeal of this Presbytery was that which 
 now lies beyond her borders, in the great coal field of 
 Pennsylvania. Previous to November ist, 1835, there was 
 no Presbyterian church north of Pottsville, in that vast 
 and rich mountain country. There were a very few Pres- 
 byterians in it, but scattered and discouraged. In 1833 
 your historian, then a student in the Seminary, offered to 
 
HISTORY OF THE 
 
 spend a vacation laboring in Mauch Chunk and the vicin- 
 ity; but his overtures were not favorably received. In the 
 year 1835, a man* whose wife had been a member of the 
 Presbyterian Church became concerned for his soul, and 
 so deep was his anxiety, that, having heard of Dr. Gray of 
 Easton, he wrote to him for counsel. The correspondence 
 resulted in his coming to Easton to be received by the Ses- 
 sion of that church to its membership, and [if my memory 
 serves] Dr. Gray baptized him. This man went back to 
 Mauch Chunk with his heart aglow with the fervors of first 
 love, and was the instrument of kindling a desire for 
 Church privileges and a Church organization in the minds 
 of a few in that town and vicinity. A request was sent to 
 Presbytery asking for the Gospel and for a church organi- 
 zation. The request was favorably considered, and a com- 
 mittee appointed to proceed to Mauch Chunk and organ- 
 ize a Church if the way should be clear. All of the mem- 
 bers except Elder Enoch Green, and your present speaker, 
 were prevented from attending. But on the last day of 
 October, 1835, ^"^^ arrived at Mauch Chunk. We held 
 service that night and the next day in a small house of the 
 Methodist Church, and on the first day of November or- 
 ganized a church of twenty-four members, and ordained 
 three Elders." 
 
 ■=^Mr. George W. Smith. 
 
FIRS't PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. Q 
 
 The charter members were as follows : 
 
 Mr. and Mrs. James C. Bigger, James Lesly, Mrs. 
 Abiel Abbott, Mr. and Mrs. Merrit Abbot, Mr. and Mrs. 
 George Washington Smith, Mrs. Thomas Patterson, Mrs. 
 John Wilson, John Simpson, Miss Margaret Youngs, Miss 
 Agnes Youngs, Mrs. Daniel H. Connor, Miss Susan Hartz, 
 Miss Mary Hartz, John Nichol, Alexander McLean, Mr. 
 and Mrs. Robert Craig, John Lile, John B. Butler, Mrs. 
 George Adair and Nathan Patterson. 
 
 Dr. Junkin continues : 
 
 " Five weeks afterward your speaker again visited 
 that town in company with his beloved friend and class- 
 mate, the lamented Rev. Richard Webster. We preaclied 
 Friday and Saturday, and on Sabbath, December 6th, ad- 
 ministered the Lord's Supper — the first dispensed by Pres- 
 byterian hands in the Carbon coal field. Mr. Webster 
 immediatelv entered upon indefatigable missionary work 
 in that mountain region, and proved one of the most la- 
 borious and successful laborers I have ever known. The 
 twenty-four communicants of which his Church was at first 
 constituted were gathered from Mauch Chunk and Summit 
 Hill, nine miles apart. But with the blessing of God upon 
 his toil, zeal, and self-denial, and upon the fostering care 
 and liberality of this Presbytery and her churches, the 
 cause prospered in the coal field. Church after church 
 was gathered and organized, pastor after pastor introduced, 
 edifice after edifice constructed, until in 1843, the flourish 
 
HISTORY OF THE 
 
 ing and enterprising Presbytery of Luzerne was constitu- 
 ted, in part of churches set off from us. Beaver Meadow 
 was organized in 1838; Summit Hill in April, 1839; 
 Conyngham in April, 1842, and colonies from these fol- 
 lowed in rapid succession at Hazleton, Weatherly, and 
 many other poiiUs. That Presbytery now numbers two 
 churches more than her mother. The Apostle of the Coal 
 Fields, the lovely and lamented Webster, toiled on until 
 he preached his last sermon on his death-bed, on June 
 19th, 1856." 
 
 After the visit described by Dr. Junkin and also fully 
 recorded in our Session Book, the little church began its 
 struggle for a permanent existence. The services were 
 held in the Methodist church while efforts were made to 
 secure a place of worship. The result of these efforts was 
 the little stone church on West Broadway. By a mistaken 
 economy and short-sighted policy the church was so small 
 that every pew was rented before it was dedicated. As 
 there was no room for enlargement, new families coming 
 into the town could not find seats, and so became irregu- 
 lar in their attendance and almost of necessity compelled 
 to worship elsewhere. That small church was a sad hin- 
 drance to the growth of the congregation and hampered 
 the pastor in his work all his life. The Church was dedi- 
 cated to the service of God in February, 1837. " The 
 kindness and courtesy of the Methodists toward us, in the 
 early days of our existence were marked ; and when our 
 
RST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. H 
 
 first house of worship was completed, a letter of recogni- 
 tion was addressed to the Trustees— a letter, the careful 
 and correct composition of which at once indicates the 
 scholar, and the pious sentiments of which, so full, so 
 warm-hearted, mark the devoted man of God. That letter 
 was the production of the Rev. Richard Webster. A 
 single quotation will indicate its general character: 'We 
 feel assured that we express not only our individual senti- 
 ments, but those of the Church and congregation to which 
 we belong, when we say that your fraternal behavior in 
 this instance is truly appreciated, and affectionately recip- 
 rocated. If ever, through change of circumstances, or 
 any providential dispensation you should be without suit- 
 able accommodations for the public worship of God, it 
 will be our privilege to open our house for your use and 
 to show by our actions our grateful remembrance of what 
 we have received. We pray that God will requite the 
 kindness you have shown us, that He will multiply your 
 members, and give to your people and your ministers the 
 teaching of His Spirit and the comforts of His grace.' " * 
 Mr. Webster began preaching in Mauch Chunk once 
 a month in 1835 ; on the other Sabbaths he labored as a 
 missionary far and near. In April, 1837, he was called to 
 the pastoral charge, one-fourth of his time being employed 
 at Summit Hill. He was installed pastor of the Church 
 
 *Dr. Ferrier's Historical Sermon. 
 
HISTORY OF THE 
 
 ill July 1837. In a letter written to his brother a few days 
 later he says : — " The house was crowded. Mr. Irwin 
 preached from Zech. 2:5: * I will be a wall of fire round 
 about thee, and the glory in the midst of thee.' Mr. 
 Candee propounded the questions and delivered the charge 
 to me, from the words. ' Cursed be the man that doeth 
 the work of the Lord deceitfully.' Mr. David X. Junkin 
 gave the charge to the people. Everything was appro- 
 priate and solemn and we may well exclaim, ' Blessed be 
 the Lord, for He hath showed me His marvellous loving 
 kindness.' " 
 
 '* The stability and prosperity of this C.'hurch, under 
 God, are largely due to the character and piety of the first 
 Pastor. If a man of inferior talents, or ordinary piety, or 
 only a common consecration, had been the first Pastor, 
 our Church to-day might have quite a different aspect. 
 The congregation will always have occasion to thank the 
 Head of the Church for that first gift. In looking over 
 some old records, I am amazed at the extent and multi- 
 plicity of his labors. It is no wonder that his constitution, 
 not very strong at the best, should have given away under 
 .such a burden, and that he should have fallen at the early 
 age of forty-five. One who knew, said : ' He is recognized 
 as the father of Luzerne Presbytery, and in some degree 
 there was on him the care of all the churches.' In a letter 
 written in December previous to his death he writes : ' I 
 preached last month three times for brother Gaston. In 
 
REW RICHARD WEBSTER. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 13 
 
 September, I preached ten times for my brethren in eight 
 days.' Notwithstanding these arduous and extended la- 
 bors, he did not neglect careful preparation for the pulpit. 
 He brouglit nothing but beaten oil into the sanctuary. I 
 make these statements from a careful examination of 
 several of his sermons. The composition is as correct as 
 if intended for the press. Several are composed with such 
 accuracy of statement that scarcely a correction would be 
 needed before giving them to the public. Like the man, 
 his style has a singular simplicity and purity. His ser- 
 mons are eminently scriptural. His only purpose seems 
 to have been to exhibit the mind of the Spirit in the 
 Word of God. The skill with which the passages are an- 
 alyzed indicates more than ordinary mental abilities. One 
 sermon on the reply of Agrippa to Paul, ' Almost thou 
 persuadest me to be a Christian,' has unusual merit, and 
 must have made a profound impression on any congrega- 
 tion that heard it. In its analysis, spiritual tone, style and 
 solemn and spiritual lessons, it is a model. The last ser- 
 mon he ever preached to this congregation, was from the 
 text, ' Enoch walked with God and was not, for God took 
 him.' It was so solemn an occasion that Rev. Mr. Cross 
 in a published sermon says : ' Many of the congregation 
 thought at the time, and some of them remarked that it 
 seemed as if he was preaching his last sermon.' His at- 
 tachment to the Church was very great. It was his only 
 pastoral charge. One of his last utterances was, * May 
 
14 HISTORYOFTHE 
 
 God be with my people, I loved to preach the Gospel to 
 them. I thank God for permitting me to preach the Gos- 
 pel to them. I thank God for permitting me to preach it 
 to one people.' The Church was very dear to him, and 
 the very walls seemed graven on the palms of his hands."* 
 
 The Rev. Courtlandt Van Rensselaer, D.D., Mr. 
 Webster's life-long friend, and his biographer, says : **God 
 gave to Richard Webster a good vigorous intellect. Even 
 a casual observer could not fail to see the flashes of intel- 
 ligence which emanated from no ordinary mental consti- 
 tution. Well cultivated in early life, his mind expanded 
 under the influence of the collegiate and theological 
 course, and received great strength and discipline from 
 the higher studies incident to his profession. He was a 
 hard student all his life. He became more and more fa- 
 miliar with the original languages of Scripture, and pros- 
 ecuted his theological studies to an extent quite unusual 
 among the temptations of our active missionary life. 
 
 ''Richard Webster early professed his faith in the 
 Lord Jesus Christ, and while the * dew of youth ' was 
 upon him, united himself with the followers of the Re- 
 deemer. He was a holy man. No one could mistake the 
 purpose of his life. His heart was in the ministry of re- 
 conciliation. Devotion to the Lord Jesus Christ was his 
 reigning passion. He had consecrated himself to his 
 
 *Dr. Ferrier's Historical Sermon. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 15 
 
 Master's service with a view to preach the Gospel among 
 the heathen ; but when Providence seemed to throw ob- 
 stacles in this direction of his choice, he joyfully went to 
 a missionary field at home, doubtless under the guidance 
 of his Heavenly Father, who greatly blessed him in his 
 labors. Living a zealous, self-denying, and active life, he 
 accomplished much for the advancement of the Redeem- 
 er's Kingdom. A tender compassion for souls was the 
 beauty and power of his ministerial character. A sweet, 
 earnest love, that came from God, enabled him to toil on 
 in the destitute coal regions of Pennsylvania, edifying the 
 saints and exhorting sinners to repentance. The Rev. A. 
 B. Cross, who preached his funeral sermon, fitly chose for 
 his text : 'Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily, and 
 justly, and unblamably we behaved ourselves among you 
 that believe ; as ye know how we exhorted and comforted, 
 and charged every one of you, as a father doth his chil- 
 dren.' — (i Thess. 2:10-12)."* 
 
 With the same self-devotion which led him to conse- 
 crate his life to work in the Marathi Mission, India, he 
 sought for a destitute field in his own land. The young 
 minister, for he was only twenty-four years old when he 
 came to Mauch Chunk, in entering upon his arduous life- 
 work voluntarily gave up all thought of earthly preferment 
 or honor. That the sacrifice was made lovingly, joyfully 
 
 ■^Biographical Sketch, 
 
l6 HISTORYOFTHE 
 
 is evident from his whole life, and we have his own testi- 
 mony in a letter written to his brother in 1838. He writes: 
 "I love the place, the people and all about it, and have as 
 completely identified myself with it in interest and affec- 
 tion, as if I had first breathed here, and as if it were Earth's 
 only spot of brightness and of rest. I came to this little 
 field, and here I began to love and to be loved, and every 
 part of the village is connected with some delightful re- 
 memberance." 
 
 "Mr. Webster was passionately devoted to the Pres- 
 byterian Church, holding our Faith and Order to be 
 the very primitive form and mould of apostlic truth, 
 he could conceive nothing more noble and venerable than 
 Galvanism and Presbyterianism. Around the Church he 
 poured the wealth of his reverence, his imagination, and 
 his affection."* 
 
 ''His principal work, aside from his regular ministry 
 of the Gospel, was ' The History of the Presbyterian 
 Church in America, from its origin until the year 1760,' 
 an octavo volume, published by authority of the Presby- 
 terian Historical Society. This book was a sort of recrea- 
 tion, from year to year, from his regular pastoral work. 
 Few ministers use their vacations so laboriously. The dif- 
 ficulties in the way of collecting material, and the variety 
 of sources from which it had to come, will lead any reader 
 
 *Rev. Benjamin J. Wallace, D. D. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 17 
 
 who looks over the lives of one hundred and ninety-six 
 ministers and the history of the churches until 1760, and 
 finds the amount of information collected to wonder 
 how, in the whole life of his ministry he accomplished it. 
 Yet he collected more than would make another volume as 
 large, and was increasing his stores constantly until his 
 death."* 
 
 We have dwelt thus fully upon these characteristics of 
 the first Pastor because we believe that they have been in- 
 delibly impressed upon our Church, and have influenced 
 its whole character and history. 
 
 Almost immediately after the installation of Mr. 
 Webster, evidences of the power of the Holy Spirit in the 
 Church were manifest; and the pastor records with deep 
 gratitude the encouragements, especially that during the 
 year, ''several aged persons have been awakened to their 
 need of the Saviour." At every meeting of Session per- 
 sons were received into the membership of the Church, 
 but only after most careful and thorough examination. 
 The growth of the Church, though not rapid, was very en- 
 couraging. In the minutes of Session the Pastor often re- 
 marks that, "The deeply interesting state of things in our 
 congregation was the subject of conversation." 
 
 In the Sessional Report to the Presbytery of Newton 
 in 1841, Mr. Webster writes : " During the pasu year the 
 
 ■^Rev. Andrew B. Cross. 
 
HISTORY OF THE 
 
 attendance on public worship has been good, but since the 
 commencement of 1841, there has been manifestly an in- 
 creased interest in the service of God's House, and so 
 striki.igly did the Divine interposition appear, that the 
 Pastor began about the middle of March to preach regu- 
 larly nearly every night in the week. A blessing followed 
 this service, developing itself in the enlargement of the 
 spirit of prayer, and in the union and activity of Chris- 
 tians. These services were continued with but little inter- 
 mission for four weeks. They were accompanied by pas- 
 toral visitation and conversation in private with those who 
 were disquieted in their minds. The weekly prayer-meet- 
 ings and the female prayer-meetings have been attended 
 regularly and with increasing interest. At no period of 
 our history have the prospects of our congregation in a 
 spiritual point of view, been so delightful and encourag- 
 ing as at the present time."* 
 
 In April, 1842, we find in the Report of Session to 
 Presbytery even greater encouragements. "During the 
 past year there has been good attendance on public wor- 
 ship, and upon the preaching of the Word and the meet- 
 ings for prayer, and for the last six months there has been 
 a larger attendance than at any former period, and there 
 has been much to encourage the hope that God was mov- 
 ing in many hearts. Six persons have been added on 
 
 "Session Book, Vol. i. pp. ;^2' 34- 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. I9 
 
 profession of their faith, and others have applied but their 
 request was not granted that they might have further op- 
 portunity of increasing their knowledge and testing 
 their stability."^ 
 
 The narrative of Religion, April 2nd, 1843, sounds 
 like a psalm of praise and thanksgiving. As the only writ- 
 ten record of the great revival of 1842 we feel that almost 
 every word will be of deep interest. " Since the 
 month of February, 1S42, encouraging tokens were observ- 
 able; our number of members rose to fifty. The deep 
 interest manifested by teachers and scholars in our Sabbath- 
 school, and the increasing attendance on the sanctuary 
 seemed to promise a season of refreshing. During the 
 summer, five or six were added to the Church, but upon 
 the Sabbath in September appointed by the General As- 
 sembly as a day of humiliation and prayer, the gracious 
 presence of God was displayed. In the course of four or 
 five weeks, upwards of sixty persons were brought into a 
 state of deep distress ; they were humbled on account of 
 their sins, and mercifully led, as we hope, to Christ. All 
 was accomplished by the ordinary services of the Pastor, 
 in visiting and preaching, and by the faithful co operation 
 and persevering prayers of the people of God. Many who 
 have long been disquieted with a sense of their lost con- 
 dition and vileness, now begin to rejoice in Christ,- and 
 
 ■^Session Book, Vol. 1, p. 36. 
 
HISTORY OF THE 
 
 careless open neglecters, roused by some inconsiderable 
 circumstances to think about their souls, pressed into the 
 kingdom of God. The interest excited in the temperance 
 reformation was doubtless a good preparative in the case 
 of many ; they considered the question of their duty in 
 regard to intoxicating drinks, and thus having recognized 
 their responsibility, their awakened conscience led them 
 to deeper and heart-searching inquiries. The improve- 
 ment in our village in respect to peacefulness, Sabbath- 
 keeping, attendance un public worship and in domestic 
 happiness is manifest and deserving of devout acknowl- 
 edgement. During the year, fourteen husbands with their 
 wives, have professed their faith in Christ ; very few who 
 are quite young have been received to the communion. 
 Fifty-six have been gathered in and we have reason to 
 hope that many more will ere long be welcomed to the 
 Table of the Lord. 
 
 "As a result of this precious awakening, we note : 
 
 1. The eiiiargement of our congregation by at least 
 one-third, and the increase of regular and solemn atten- 
 dance on the house of God. 
 
 2. The prosperity of our Sabbath-school. It is un- 
 der the care of Session and was a prime cause under God 
 of preparing many souls to receive the word with gladness. 
 We have now twenty-four teachers, a large proportion of 
 whom have newly entered on the work, to supply vacan- 
 cies occasioned by removal, and to take charge of new 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 21 
 
 classes. Fifteen teachers have given themselves publicly 
 to the Lord, nearly all the others were either previously 
 communicants or are hopefully converted. A considerable 
 number of the scholars are, we trust, objects of renewing 
 grace. 
 
 3. Social meetings have been established, and kept 
 up with interest. Beside the weekly lecture on Wednes- 
 day, there have been through the winter a prayer meeting 
 on Tuesday, a female prayer meeting on Thursday, and a 
 young men's prayer meeting on Friday. In these nearly 
 all our communicants take part. 
 
 4. A small neighborhood distant four miles, has 
 been visited, a prayer meeting established, and a Sabbath- 
 school gathered with six teachers and thirty scholars. Not 
 a few of the residents there assemble punctually with us on 
 the Sabbath, and nearly every person, male or female is 
 present at the semi-monthly preaching of the Gospel there. 
 
 5. There is also an adult Bible class, conducted by 
 one of the Elders on Sabbath afternoon with happy results. 
 
 "The Session cannot fail to record that the chief and 
 honored instrumentality in all the good that has been done, 
 was the one appointed of God, viz: the steady, uniform 
 declaration and enforcement of divine truth, — visiting fre- 
 quently and carefully from house to house, especially in 
 seasons of distress, family and Sabbath-school instructions, 
 and the working of the people with the Pastor in secret 
 prayer, social meetings, and private and affectionate ex 
 
22 HISTORYOFTHE 
 
 hortation and entreaty. These were the means, and they 
 were carefully, and abundantly and patiently used, but 
 God gave the increase. 
 
 "On the review of the undeserved mercy of the Lord 
 toward us, we see that we have abundant reason for thanks- 
 giving, and we feel solemnly called to labor with our 
 might from henceforth and with hope. The congregation 
 is united and growing, the great truths of the Gospel are 
 plainly and steadily preached, and we rejoice to believe 
 that many are growing in grace and in the knowledge of 
 our Lord and Saviour. To God be the praise."* 
 
 Of this precious revival Dr. Ferrier said: " It dif- 
 fered from other revivals in its depth and thoroughness, 
 and in the fact that it extended beyond the congregation. 
 Conviction of sin came upon men with a peculiar pungeny 
 while they were at their work. There was a singular awe 
 in the stores, and shops, and offices. It was such a revival 
 as is needed now, A revival in a congregation and in a 
 Sabbath-school is a matter for devout thankfulness, but is 
 there not a power somewhere to reach those who never 
 enter the church ? In the annual report for 1842, though 
 there were only fifty members of the Church, sixty-one 
 additional members were received during that year. It 
 was a blessing and an ingathering that gave an impulse to 
 the Church that is felt to this hour."f 
 
 ^Session Book, Vol, i, p. 43-45. 
 f Historical Sermon. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN -CHURCH. 23 
 
 " In May, 1843, ^^""^ General Assembly (Old School), 
 set off this Church from the Presbytery of Newton, to be 
 with several others erected into the Presbytery of Lu- 
 zerne.'"^ 
 
 For several successive years there is a sad tone in the 
 Sessional Records regarding the spiritual interests of the 
 Church. Again and again in the Annual Narrative of 
 Religion does the Pastor lament the condition of the 
 Church, and his heart is over-whelmed with sorrow as he 
 mourns the indifference of those in whose spiritual welfare 
 he was so deeply interested. In 1844 ^"le writes: "There 
 has been a remarkable indifference on the part of those 
 who are out of the Church. >f= * * And over this la- 
 mentable state of things, the professed followers of Christ 
 have not mourned. * * Great searchings of heart are 
 needed, for there is none that stirreth up himself to take 
 hold on God."t 
 
 Again, in April, 1845: "Lack of interest in the meet 
 ings for prayer and in the public services of God's House 
 has been painfully apparent. The love of many has wax.d 
 cold. Still we have reason to believe that the Word, 
 regularly, faithfully, and earnestly preached has been bless- 
 ed to the strengthening in grace of some of God's people, 
 and we hope that there are in our congregation several 
 
 ^Session Book, Vol. 2, p. i. 
 fSession Book Vol. i,p. 41. 
 
24 HISTORYOFTHE 
 
 whom the Holy Spirit is making ready as a people prepar- 
 ed for the Lord."* 
 
 '^^Lugust 9, 1848. The lamentable decline of relig- 
 ion being of long continuance and sadly on the increase 
 it was resolved that a letter to each member of our Church 
 be prepared, "t 
 
 One who was a member of our Church at that time 
 has written: "Especially on one occasion I remember how 
 deeply he was affected. His heart seemed overwhelmed 
 within him. I went, in company with a mutual friend of 
 his and mine, with a view of administering some word of 
 comfort. He freely unbosomed to us his whole soul; and 
 truly his feelings were such as could arise from nothing less 
 than the most vivid apprehension of spiritual things, the 
 value of the soul, and the worth of the Saviour." J; 
 
 At last the cloud lifted : in 1849, nia^ny encourage- 
 ments are noted and the spiritual and temporal interests of 
 the Church began to advance. 
 
 The anniversary of the first administration of the 
 Lord's Supper, the first Sabbath in December, was fre- 
 quently " Set apart as a day of thanksgiving, to record the 
 Lord's goodness to us as a people." At this time, in 1848, 
 the Pastor records: '^ The Sacrament of the Lord's Sup- 
 per was administered, it being the commencement of the 
 
 *Session Book, Vol. i, p. 58. 
 
 flbid, p. 62. 
 
 JRev. James Scott, in Biographical Sketch. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 25 
 
 fourteenth year of the Pastor's stated labors here, and tlie 
 fourteenth anniversary of the administration of the Lord's 
 Supper. Of the eighty-seven communicants belonging to 
 the Church, fifty-two partook of the ordinances * * the 
 absence of nine only being unexplained.'' * 
 
 On another anniversary the Session invited the Rev. 
 D. X. Junkin, D. D. to be present and preach the sermon. 
 
 *' By the year 1850, the congregation had grown so 
 rapidly that a new and larger church was necessary. In 
 September 1855, or five years after the first agitation of the 
 subject, the corner stone of the present house of worship 
 was laid. Addresses were made by the Pastor, Rev. Mr. 
 Webster, Rev. Mr. Glen, of Tamaqua, and Rev. Thomas 
 P. Hunt, of Wyoming."! 
 
 The last entry made in the Session Book by Mr. Web- 
 ster bears the date of April 4 th, 1856, and relates to the 
 examination and reception into the Church of some new 
 members, and to the regular work of Session. At this 
 time also,|he notes that there are now in the communion o 
 our Church one hundred and three persons. 
 
 The next entry, written by Elder Charles G. Rock- 
 wood, reads: ''June 19th, 1856. The Pastor of this 
 Church, Rev. Richard Webster, died this day at a quarter 
 before twelve o'clock, A. M., in calm and peaceful depend- 
 
 *Ses.sion Book, Vol. i. pp. 68, 69. 
 f Dr. Ferrier's Historical Sermon. 
 
26 II I S T O R Y O F T H E 
 
 ence upon the atonement and righteousness of the Saviour, 
 and in assured hope of a blessed immortality. With strong 
 faith he committed the Church as well as his family to the 
 care of a faithful God." * 
 
 A few days later, resolutions expressive of the feelings 
 of Session on the loss of our late Pastor," prepared by 
 Elder Smith, were adopted and spread on the Session Book. 
 We make a few extracts: "Whereas, it has pleased God, in 
 His all-wise Providence, on the 19th day of June, 1856, 
 to remove from us to the rest prepared for His people, our 
 much loved Pastor, the Rev. Richard Webster, in the 
 forty-fith year of his age, after twenty-one years of zealous 
 labor in the cause of Christ. Therefore 
 
 '■'■Resolved, That we hereby bear our testimony to the 
 zeal and energy with which he our first and only Pastor 
 labored among us during the whole of his ministerial life. 
 
 ^'ResoiVed, That while we mourn his loss as a mission- 
 ary, pastor, presbyter, friend and brother, we humbly bow 
 to the will of God, thanking Him for being permitted to 
 witness in his peaceful death, the power of that faith, love 
 and sustaining grace which he so often preached to others, "f 
 
 The same week, a special meeting of the Presbytery of 
 Luzerne, was held at Scranton, "to take into consideration 
 matters connected with the death of Rev. Richard Webster, 
 Stated Clerk of Presbytery and Chairman of the Commit. 
 
 *Session Book, Vol. 11, p. 52. 
 f Session Book Vol. 11, p. 52. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 27 
 
 tee on Domestic missions." The resolutions adopted bv 
 Presbytery were ordered to be read in the Church on Sab- 
 bath, July 6 th, and also copied in the Session Book. Pres- 
 bytery records its ''grief at the loss of our greatly beloved 
 Brother, valued co-presbyter and Stated Clerk, an able 
 and judicious counsellor, a warm-hearted and zealous fel- 
 low-laborer and the founder of this Presbytery." Also, that 
 the " Church of Christ has been deprived of an erudite 
 historian, as well as earnest and faithful minister ; this 
 great missionary field, of a fearless and indefatigable pio- 
 neer-missionaiy; and humanity, of a willing and trusty 
 friend."* 
 
 " What a legacy has been left to this Church ! I fear 
 that you do not prize it as you ought. Such a memory is 
 more than gold. It should make this people devoted and 
 thankful. The talents, the piety, the consecration of you^ 
 first Pastor might have given him an honored place in some 
 of the prominent pulpits in the land. He sought alone the 
 higher honor that comes from winning souls to Jesus. He 
 chose to give his time, his culture, his talents, his very life 
 to you; with you he lived and labored and died. Being 
 dead he yet speaks. O let him always speak to your hearts. 
 His example and his life yet linger in blessed memory 
 around the homes of this town. Though other pastors 
 have followed him, something imperishably connected with 
 him yet walks here among his beloved flock, visiting their 
 *Session Book Vol. 11, p. 54. 
 
H I S 1' O R Y O F ']■ H E 
 
 homes, cotiif :)rting tr.e mourner, warning the careless and 
 teaching the ignorant, and in this pulpit reasoning of right- 
 eousness and temperance and judgment." 
 
 July 2oth, 1856, or less than one year after the laying 
 of the corner-sione, tlie basement was occupied for public 
 worship. Elder Charles G. Rockwood writes: "The 
 congregation and Sunday-school to-day abandoned the 
 old churcli building, and public school building, and re- 
 moved to the new: — the basement of which being now 
 finished will hereafter be occupied for public worship un- 
 til the edifice is completed. The Rev. Dr. Thomas E. 
 Vermilye, of the ("olleg:ate Reformed Dutch Church, New 
 York City, preached in the new room morning and even- 
 ing. * ''•' "'" This occasion, as an earnest of the fulfill- 
 ment of long deferred hopes for the completion of the new 
 C-hurch, so much needed ; was a pleasant and cheering 
 one, notwithstanding the deeply felt absence of the Pastor 
 whose voice (now tuned to the melodies of Heaven) we 
 had so fondly hoped to hear in the new house. The Lec- 
 ture Room is commodious and pleasant for public worship, 
 and (with a separate room for the Infant School) affords to 
 the Sunday-schools ample and r/^^^///// accommodations in 
 great contrast with the public school rooms heretofore 
 occupied. "f 
 
 At a congregational meeting held on the 24th of Nov- 
 
 *Dr. P'enier's Historical Sermon. 
 •j-Session Book, Vol. ii, p. 55. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 29 
 
 ember, 1856, a call was extended to the Rev. J. Aspinwall 
 Hodge, a licentiate under the care of the First Presbytery 
 of Philadelphia, to become Pastor of this Church, The call 
 was accepted and on the 21st of December, 1856, at the 
 request of Session, Mr. Hodge began his labors here as 
 Stated Supply. 
 
 The Narrative of Religion, prepared by Elder Rock- 
 wood, April, 1857, is of especial interest. " The last year 
 has been an eventful one to our Church, and while it has 
 wrought deep affliction, in the removal by death of our 
 lamented Pastor, Rev. Richard Webster, has stiil been 
 marked with prosperity in the affairs of the Church, and 
 wuth unusual encouragement to labor more prayerfully and 
 earnestly for the salvation of souls. Increased attention 
 to the preaching of the truth was observable before the 
 death of our Pastor, A marked seriousness followed our 
 bereavement, and it is thought that some souls may trace 
 their first serious impressions to the death-bed scene which 
 was ])eculiarly impressive. * =i< ^k * ^j- jj-^g recent 
 Communion, ten persons were added to the Church, on 
 profession of their faith, one being a scholar in the Sab- 
 bath-school ; and others are hopefully serious, giving 
 reason to trust that God's Holy Spirit is present with us. 
 During the year, fourteen have united with the Church on 
 profession of their faith, of whom twelve were heads of 
 families. ^ ^^ * ^^ 'p|-,g Monthly Concert for Prayer 
 is regularly observed. An improvement over former years 
 
^O H I S T O R Y O F T H E 
 
 is shown in our contributions for Missionary and Congre- 
 gregational purposes. -^ -^ * One hundred and ten are 
 now in communion. Finally — we are at peace among 
 ourselves, and as a congregation, entirely united." * 
 
 The Presbytery of Luzerne held its regular Spring 
 meeting here in 1857, and on the evening of April 22nd, 
 Rev. J. Aspinvvall Hodge was ordained, and installed 
 Pastor. The sermon was preached by the Rev. Charles 
 Hodge, D. D., L. L. D., of Princeton Theological Semi- 
 nary ; the charge to the Pastor was given by the Rev. A. 
 G. Harned, and the charge to the people by the Rev. 
 John Johnson. The pastoral relation constituted at that 
 time continued eight years. 
 
 Mr. Hodge came to our Church a young man, fresh 
 from his theological studies at Princeton, full of zeal and 
 determination to do his work faithfully and well. He bore 
 the name which stands so high in the history of the Pres- 
 byterian Church, which holds such an honored place in 
 her ministry and eldership, and which is known and loved 
 by all Presbyterians. " Our Mr. Hodge " has by a long 
 and faithful ministry, by unswerving devotion to the purity 
 of our beloved Church in doctrine and government added 
 new lustre to that honored name. 
 
 Mr. Hodge began his ministry here with all the en- 
 thusiasm and love of his nature, and our written records 
 
 ■^Session Book Vol. ii, p. 65, 66. 
 
REW J. ASPINWALL HODCE. D. E. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 3I 
 
 as well as the testimony of those who loved him attest his 
 faithfulness and care ps Pastor. During his pastorate the 
 fearful shadow of the great Civil War rested on our land, 
 and political excitement interfered sadly with the spiritual 
 interests, the peace and harmor,y of many churches. But 
 through it all our Church was kept by the loving care of 
 God, and at last peace and unity were restored to our 
 land. 
 
 " Under the ministry of Mr. Hodge, the Church 
 made good progress. The house of worship was com- 
 pleted, the congregation increased in numbers, and though 
 there was no extensive revival, many from time to time 
 were added to the Church. During the eight years of his 
 ministry about one hundred were added to the commu- 
 nion of the Church."* 
 
 In 1858, the Session resolved '*to hold a prayer-meet- 
 ing in the Lecture room every Sabbath morning at ten 
 o'clock to beseech God to bless His Word in the conver- 
 sion of those who are out of Christ." Many have spoken 
 of these early meetings as seasons of prayer very 
 precious to their souls. The Pastor also held a prayer- 
 meeting for young men. 
 
 On June 12th, 1859, an event of great importance in 
 our history took place, wlien the new Church was solemnly 
 dedicated to the worship of God. By special request of 
 Session the Rev. D. X. Junkin, D. D., who had been so 
 
 *Dr. Ferrier's Historical Sermon. 
 
32 HISTORY OFT HE 
 
 closely associated with this Church from the day of its or- 
 ganization, preached the sermon. The dedicatory prayer 
 was offered by the Rev. Thomas P. Hunt. In the eve- 
 ning, the sermon was preached by the Rev. Charles W, 
 Shields, D. D., of Philadelphia. 
 
 " February nth, 1865, the Pastor requested the Ses- 
 sion to grant him permission to call a meeting of the con- 
 gregation to unite with him in petitioning Presbytery to 
 dissolve the pastoral relation which had existed eight 
 years. "■^' The congregational meeting was held on the 
 20th of February, and Mr. Hodge's request granted "with 
 great regret." The resolutions adopted at the meeting 
 and entered on the Session Book mention that, '* By his ur- 
 banity and gentlemanly deportment, by his Christian zeal 
 and faithfulness as a Pastor : and by his untiring devotion 
 to the spiritual as well as temporal interests of this Church, 
 Mr. Hodge has greatly endeared himself to his people and 
 will always be remembered by them with grateful affec- 
 tion. "f 
 
 Soon after leaving Mauch Chunk, Mr. Hodge accepted 
 a call to the First Presbyterian Church of Hartford, Conn., 
 and remained there twenty-six years (1866-1892.) In 1874, 
 Princeton College conferred upon him the degree of Doc- 
 tor of Divinity. In 1892, Dr. Hodge resigned his pastoral 
 
 ^•Session Book, Vol. ii, p. 140. 
 fSession Book, Vol. 11, p. 142. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. ^^ 
 
 charge on account of bis health, and was at once made 
 Pastor Emeritus. In 1893, he accepted the professorship 
 of the English Bible in Lincoln University. In addition 
 to his labors as Pastor, Presbyterand Professor, Dr. Hodge 
 has written and published several valuable books. His 
 largest and most important book, "What is Presbyterian 
 Law?" has proved invaluable to Pastors and Sessions, 
 Besides all these services to the Church he loves so well, 
 Dr. Hodge has given three sons to her ministry. 
 
 For almost a year after the resignation of Mr. Hodge, 
 our pulpit was supplied with great satisfaction to the 
 people, by the Rev. Charles J. Collins, of Wilkes-Barre. 
 During that time the congregation extended a call to the 
 Rev. Dr. Sheddan, of Rahway, New Jersey. To the dis- 
 appointment of many, the call was declined. Again, 
 March 26th, 1866, a "hearty and unanimous call was 
 given to the Rev. F. R. Masters, of Matteawan, New York." 
 The call was prosecuted before the Presbytery of North 
 River by commissioners from our Church, who represented 
 the great need of a pastor, and the unanimity of the desire 
 for Mr. Masters. Presbytery, after hearing both sides, 
 and carefully considering the Question, decided that in 
 view of the extreme reluctance of the people at Matteawan 
 to part with their Pastor, the call should not be placed in 
 Mr. Masters' hands. "So our Church found itself still 
 without a Pastor." 
 
 Later, in the same year, a unanimous call was given. 
 
34 H I ^ '1' O R Y O F T H E 
 
 to the Rev. Jacob Belville, of Holmesburg, Pa. Mr. Bel- 
 ville accepted the call and was installed Pastor, November 
 1st, 1866. Rev. Dr. Newlin, of Hazleton, preached the 
 sermon, Rev. Mr. Park, of Pittston, delivered the charge 
 to the Pastor, and the Rev. Dr. Hickok, of Scranton, the 
 charge to the congregation. 
 
 Under Dr. Belville's ministry, our Church was richly 
 ])lessed, temporally and spiritually. A decided advance in 
 every respect was made. The congregation, perfectly 
 united and harmonious, was enlarged and strengthened 
 and able to undertake more aggressive work. The bur- 
 den of debt which had rested upon the Church for many 
 years was removed. x\t that time, the bell whichhas all 
 these years called the people to the house of God, and 
 which is associated with so much of our Church life, was 
 given by that generous aud devoted friend, Mrs. Andrew 
 A. Douglas. But no adequate mention can be made here 
 of the unfailing liberality of this noble friend whose name 
 is enrolled on high among those holy women, who on 
 earth ministered to our Lord of their substance. The con- 
 tributions, for all causes, were larger than ever before, and 
 constantly advanced by the Pastor's faithful and earnest 
 presentation of the work of the Boards of the Presbyter- 
 ian Church. 
 
 Mr. Belville was very active in his pastoral work, and 
 until failing health compelled him to give up much of the 
 work in which he so delighted, he held three prayer meet- 
 
REV. JACOB BELVILLE, D. D. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 35 
 
 iiigs each week, had three Sabbath-schools under his care, 
 and frequently preached three times on the Lord's Day. 
 
 In 1871, the title of Doctor of Divinity was given to 
 Mr. Belville by Lafayette College. 
 
 After the re-union of the two branches of the Presbv- 
 terian Church, in 1870, the historic Presbytery of Luzerne, 
 was dissolved, and it no longer appears on the roll of the 
 General Assembly. While its history has not yet been 
 fully written, Luzerne Presbytery has a permanent and 
 glorious memorial in its vast missionary work in the coal 
 fields, and in the large and flourishing churches organized 
 by it and sustained for many years by its wise and loving 
 care. As it was largely through the niissionary work and 
 unwearied zeal of the first Pastor of our Church that the 
 need for thePresbytery of Luzerne arose, we have a peculiar 
 interest in its history. June 22nd, 1870, the Presbytery of 
 Lehigh was organized by the Synod of Philadelphia, and 
 the Church of Mauch Chunk transferred to its jurisdiction. 
 
 In 1866, Session decided to change the lime of the 
 administration of the Lord's Supper, and since that time 
 it has been celebrated on the second Sabbath of January, 
 April, July and October. 
 
 In January, 1873, ^r. Belville resigned his pastoral 
 charge here, that he might accept a call to the First Pres- 
 byterian Church, of Pottsville. The resolutions adopted 
 at the congregational meeting speak of the rtgret felt by 
 all at the dissolution of this pastoral relation, and also 
 
36 H I S T O R Y C) F T H E 
 
 record the high appreciation of his ''pastoral fidelity and 
 Christian worth," but add that ''we ought not in any 
 way to prevent him from doing what appears to him a 
 duty." 
 
 The pastoral relation, which had existed for six years 
 and three months, was dissolved by the Presbytery of 
 Lehigh at a special meeting held in our Church in Febru- 
 ary, 1873. 
 
 Dr. Belville continued Pastor of the First Presbyterian 
 Church, of Pottsville, until 1894, when he resigned and 
 became Pastor Emeritus. Dr. Belville has enjoyed the 
 privilege of preaching the Gospel for fifty years. 
 
 In June, 1873, ^^^- Kdsall Ferrier, of Easton, preached 
 for us, and at the urgent request of Session he supplied the 
 pulpit during the entire Summer. So much did he endear 
 himself to the people that he was unanimously and most 
 enthusiastically called to be our Pastor, On Friday even- 
 ing, October 31st, 1873, ^^- Ferrier was installed. The 
 sermon was preached by the Rev. J. Allen Maxwell, of 
 Hazletou : the charge to the people was given by the Rev. 
 Wm. C. Cattell, D. D., President 'of Lafayette College, 
 and the charge to the Pastor, by the Rev. Jacob Belville, 
 D. D., of Pottsville. 
 
 Almost immediately after Mr. Ferrier's coming to 
 us, a deep interest in spiritual things was manifest, and 
 this continued during his entire pastorate. It may truth- 
 fully be said that the presence and power of the Holy Spirit 
 
REV. EDSALf. EERRIER, D. I). 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 37 
 
 were always with us during those years. We refer, not 
 merely to the numerous additions to the Church, but also 
 to the fact that the Lord's people were continually re- 
 freshed and strengthened in their christian life. The 
 weekly prayer meeting was largely attended, and a meet- 
 ing for the young people was sustained with much interest 
 and enthusiasm. Frequently special services were held 
 and always welcomed by the people. The Pastor led a 
 short prayer-meeting before service on Sabbath morning, 
 and many can remember the pleasant half hour spent in 
 the Lecture room. A strong love for our Church was de- 
 veloped, and many of our most active members feel that 
 they owe much to the great privilege they enjoyed in hav- 
 ing Dr. Ferrier's training and teaching. Lafayette Col- 
 lege conferred the title of Doctor of Divinity on our Pas- 
 tor in 1881. 
 
 In the Week of Prayer, 1875, ^" unusual religious in- 
 terest was felt, the Lecture room was filled every evening, 
 and many professed their faith in Christ as a personal Sa- 
 viour. We find the following minute entered ',by Dr. Fer- 
 rier : " Special record is made of the fact that on our 
 Communion Sabbath, January 12th, 1875, sixty persons 
 sat for the first time at the Table of our Lord. To God 
 be all the glory for this wonderful work. On the after- 
 noon of the Sabbath special thanksgiving services were 
 held, recognizing the goodness and grace of God."* 
 
 ■■^Session Book, Vol. iv, p 6. 
 
^S HISTORYOFTHE 
 
 Again : '^ In special recognition of the grace of God, 
 we record the fact that on Sabbath morning, March 28th, 
 1875, thirty-eight persons took their places for the first 
 time at the Lord's Table. "^ 
 
 Many will remember this revival of 1875 as one which 
 was specially blessed to their souls. 
 
 Again we read : '* In special recognition of the grace 
 of God, we record that on Sabbath morning, January nth, 
 1880, thirty persons took their seats for the first time at 
 the Lord's Table, "t 
 
 Under Dr. Ferrier's ministry, the missionary spirit of 
 our Church was greatly quickened by the organization of 
 the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society, and the Foreign 
 Mission Bands among the young people and children. 
 To this work, Dr. Ferrier gave from the first his unqualified 
 approval and unfailing support, and the marked success of 
 these organizations during all these years is kirgely owing 
 to him. 
 
 Dr. Ferrier identified himself vvith all the religious 
 and evangelistic work undertaken by some of the young 
 men of our Church, and his presence at the Hose House 
 meetings on Sabbath afternoon, and his earnest appeals to 
 the railroad men were blessed to the salvation of many. 
 
 In 1883, Dr. Ferrier presented his resignation on ac- 
 count of failing health, but he was urged to remain Pastor 
 
 ^Session Book, Vol. iv, p. 8. 
 f Session Book, Vol. iv, p. 21, 
 
^ 
 
 
 Ik 
 
 
 ^^s^^^^^ 
 
 1^ 
 
 ^( 
 
 I 
 
 7?^F. WEBSTER WOODBURY 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 39 
 
 and take a long vacation. After nearly six months of 
 absence he renewed his request, saying that the state of his 
 health convinced him that it was the will of God that he 
 should not resume his labors here. With great sorrow the 
 congregation acceded to this urgent request, and, '' At a 
 special meeting of Lehigh Presbytery held in Pottsville, 
 January 15th, 1884, the pastoral relation between the Rev. 
 Edsall Ferrier, D. D , and the First Presbyterian Church, 
 of Mauch Chunk, was dissolved, after a pastorate of ten 
 years and two months.""" 
 
 Dr. Ferrier has never taken another pastoral charge, 
 but has devoted himself to preaching, active evangelistic 
 work and literary labors. In 1893, ^""^ became Professor 
 of Hebrew in Lafayette College. 
 
 November 23rd, 1884, a call was extended to the Rev. 
 Webster Woodbury, of Foxboro, Mass., a minister of the 
 Congregational Church. He was installed Pastor on Feb- 
 ruary 3rd, 1885. Rev. John Pollock, of Allentown, 
 preached the sermon ; the Rev. Dr. Belville gave the 
 charge to the Pastor, and the Rev. -Edsall Ferrier, D. D., 
 the charge to the congregation. 
 
 Mr. Woodbury's pastorate lasted three years and three 
 months, being dissolved at his request by Lehigh Presby- 
 tery on the 17th of April, 1888. 
 
 At this time began the removal from town of many of 
 
 ■^Session Book, Vol. iv, p. 31. 
 
40 H I S T O R Y O F T H E 
 
 our active and useful members. These losses were sadden- 
 ing and discouraging to Mr. Woodbury as they have been 
 to his successors. Mr. Woodbury was deeply interested 
 in the young people, and the Society of Christian En- 
 deavor was organized by him, and owes much to his lov- 
 ing, faithful care and guidance. 
 
 During this pastorate, our Chapel, in East Mauch 
 Chunk, was built and dedicated. Mr. Woodbury was very 
 devoted to the Sabbath-school, and all the work of our 
 people in East Mauch Chunk. Mr. Woodbury left us to 
 accept a call to the Congregational Church, in Milford, 
 Mass., where he is still engaged in active and successful 
 pastoral work. 
 
 On the 25th of June, 1SS8, a unanimous call was 
 given to the Rev. W. P. Stevenson, Pastor of the Presby- 
 terian Church, at West Bellevue, Pa. Mr. Stevenson was 
 installed on September 2Sth, 1888. Tlie sermon was 
 preached by the Rev. Douglas Carliie, of Easton, the 
 charge to the Pastor was given by the Rev. Dr. Belville, 
 and that to the people by the Rev. Dr. Ferrier. 
 
 Mr. Stevenson's pastorate was a time of great pros- 
 perity to our Church in almost every respect. The services 
 on Sabbath were well attended, as were all of the week- 
 night meetings; the benevolent contributions were larger 
 than in previous years^ and at the close of his ministry 
 here Mr. Stevenson was able to record: "The prosper- 
 ous condition of all departments of Church work." 
 
REV. WILLIAM P. STEVENSON. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 4I 
 
 ' The Week of Prayer, 18S9, was of unusual interest and 
 solemnity. The Lecture room was crowded every night, 
 and a deep religious interest pervaded all the services. In 
 view of this interest, Session decided to continue the meet- 
 ings another week, during which, the large attendance and 
 the interest were very marked. A number were received 
 into the communion of the church at that time and during 
 the following months.. Mr. Stevenson, writes, April 
 14th, 1889: "The Sacrament of the Lord's Supper was ob- 
 served this morning by a large congregation. We note it 
 as worthy of special, thanksgiving, that within the past six 
 months, one hundred names have been added to our roll, 
 eighty four by profession and sixteen by certificate."^ 
 
 Again, April 13th, 1890: "The Session desire to 
 put on record their gratitude to God for the many tokens 
 of His love and favor granted to us during tlie past few 
 months. Our house of worship has been most beautifully 
 remodeled and adorned, large congregations assemble 
 morning and evening to hear the Gospel preached and 
 harmony prevails. "f 
 
 In March, 1891, Mr. Stevenson received a call to the 
 First Presbyterian Church, of Titusville, Pa., which he 
 accepted. The pastoral relation which had existed two 
 years and seven months was dissolved by the Presbytery of 
 Lehigh, in April, 1891. 
 
 •5^Session Book, Vol. iv, p. 82, 
 f Session Book, Vol. iv, p. S7. 
 
42 HISTORYOFTHE 
 
 At a congregational meeting, September ist, 1891, 
 the Rev. D. M. Buchanan, Pastor of the Presbyterian 
 Church, at Oceanville, New York, was called to be our Pas- 
 tor. Mr. Buchanan was installed December 3rd, 1891. 
 The sermon was preached by the Rev. Dr. Belville. The 
 charge to the Pastor was given by the Rev. Charles Ruth- 
 erford, of Springfield, N. Y., and the charge to the people 
 by the Rev. George C. Heckman, D. D., L. L. D,, of 
 Reading. 
 
 During all these years, our Church has grown and pros- 
 pered. As we have seen, many have from time to time 
 been added to our number. The little Church organized in 
 1835 with twenty-four members, reported to the General As- 
 sembly this year, 1895, ^ membership of four hundred and 
 fifteen. 
 
 As the present pastorate is happily not yet a matter 
 of history, it does not come within the limits of this sketch. 
 We trust that it may long continue as prosperous and har- 
 monious as it has been these past four years, and that the 
 blessing of the great Head of the Church may ever rest 
 upon Pastor and people. 
 
REl'. Di'XCAX .V. nCCNAXAX. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 43 
 
 THE SESSION. 
 
 "The Church Session is charged with maintaining the 
 spiritual government of the congregation; for which purpose 
 they have power to inquire into the knowledge and chris- 
 tian conduct of the members of the Church; * * * * to re- 
 ceive members into the Church; to admonish, to rebuke, to 
 suspend, or exclude from, the Sacrament, those who .ire 
 four:d to deserve censure; to concert the best measures for 
 promoting the spiritual interests of the congregation; and 
 to appoint delegates to the higher judicatories of the 
 Church." * 
 
 Immediately after the organization of our Church 
 (Nov. ist, 1835,) three Ruling Elders were elected and or- 
 dained. These were, Messrs. John Simpson, James Big- 
 ger and George W. Smith. From early in 1838 until 1842, 
 Mr. Smith was the only Elder, and he and Mr Webster 
 constituted the Session. The Sessional records of those 
 four years show a vast amount of work done thoroughly 
 and faithfully. At that time, Mr. Webster gave one-fourth 
 of his time to Summit Hill, and Elder Smith conducted ser- 
 vices on the Sabbath he was absent. 
 
 April 13th, 1842, Mr. John Ruddle and Dr. John D. 
 
 "^Form of Government, Chap, ix , Sect. v.. 
 
44 HISTORYOFTHE 
 
 Thompson were elected Elder.s. As the Session had so 
 much to do in the early days of the Church, we feel that 
 we may speak more particularly of their work before 
 naming others who have held the office of Ruling Elder. 
 We notice, first, the extreme care- of Session in receiv- 
 ing members into the Church. In those formative years 
 great wisdom and discretion were needed in admitting 
 persons to the communion of the Church. No doubt our 
 Church owes much to the decided action and careful delib- 
 eration of the men who constitued the Session. There 
 was no undue haste in the action of Session in this impor- 
 tant matter, but there was most careful and thorough ex- 
 amination. When there was any doubt of the knowledge 
 of spiritual things, the person was held back for a time 
 and instructed by the Pastor. When there was any shadow 
 on the reputation, the person was refused admission until 
 truly penitent and all was cleared away. Even when cer- 
 tificates were presented, espically if they had been given 
 long before, the person was carefully examined by Session. 
 We note this in the Session Book: 'Resolved, that the Ses- 
 sion meet on the Sabbath evening after the Sacrament, to 
 enable any persons who may desire to come forward at the 
 next administration to the Lord's Table, to have timely 
 and frequent opportunities of meeting with the Session, 
 and Resolved, That for the same purpose they will meet 
 once in four weeks, either on the second Sabbath of the 
 month, or on the following Wednesday night." 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 45 
 
 The Session also watched over the members of the 
 Church with loving interest. The purity of the Church 
 was very precious to them and they guarded it with jealous 
 care. If possible not even one spot should mar the purity 
 of the Church of Christ. Carelessness in attendance upon 
 public worship, disregard of the Lord's Day, "speaking 
 reproachfully and falsely" of one's neighbors, tavern-keep- 
 ing, intemperance and profanity were all brought before 
 the Session. If continued, a member of Session was ap- 
 pointed to visit and admonish the erring one. If the ad- 
 monition was neglected the offender was cited to appear 
 before Session and answer the charge. A case of interest 
 IS that of one who "on our Sacrament Sabbath did in 
 company with several persons of the Romish Church, take 
 a sleigh ride to Tamaqua and attend the celebration of 
 mass in a chapel there." The delinquent appeared before 
 Session in answer to the citation, acknowledged the truth 
 of the charges and declared herself deeply penitent for her 
 sin. The Session decided that she " be suspended from 
 the communion of the Church for six months." 
 
 In all cases, discipline was administered by Session 
 only after a thorough examination of the case and long 
 ai'd prayerful considenition; and then done most lovinglv 
 and tenderly. The loving care of Session is evident from 
 such records as these: "July 21st, 1840 During the present 
 wee.. e Pastor and Elder have visited and prayed with 
 ev milyin communion with this Church residing in 
 
46 HISTORY OFTHE 
 
 the village." * Again: " October ist, 1845. It was resolved 
 to visit" certain families **anfi to converse with them 
 on the sin of intemperance in the first case, and in the 
 second of the violation of the Sabbath, and conduct un- 
 worthy of a Christian, "f "August 14th, 1844. It was re- 
 solved that a sermon be preached next Sabbath on the 
 duties of the Session to the Congregation, and of their 
 duty to the Session, and that the Session will during the 
 month of September visit all of the members of the 
 Church, "j 
 
 Mr. Ruddle resigned in 1852, and Dr. Thompson died 
 in 1854, so that the Session was again reduced to two mem- 
 bers, the Pastor and Elder Smith. It was enlarged in Jan- 
 uary 1856 by the election of four Ruling Elders: Messrs. 
 Charles G. Rockwood^ Nathan Fegley, Robert Porter and 
 Joseph Forrest. In March i86i,Mr. A. G. Brodhead and 
 Mr. Fisher Hazard were elected and ordained to the Elder- 
 ship. 
 
 Mr. Hodge introduced a plan for increasing the ef- 
 ficiency of the Elders, which is fully stated in the Session 
 Book. " The list of our communicants was divided into 
 four parts, which were given to the four Elders. While 
 the Elders are bound by their office to maintain a constant 
 
 ^Session Book, Vol. i, p, 29. 
 fSession Book, Vol. i, p. 61. 
 ^.Session Book, Vol. i, p. 55. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 47 
 
 watchful over-sight over the whole Church, each Elder is 
 expected by Session to take a special charge of those 
 names which are upon his list. These he is expected to 
 visit, and once in three months to report to the Session 
 their spiritual condition, and to give any information con- 
 cerning them that the Pastor or the Elders may desire. 
 The Elders are to inform the Pastur from time to time of 
 the sickness, affliction, trouble, etc. of those committed to 
 their charge, and of whatever may be of assistance to him 
 in his pastoral work."* 
 
 At tliat time the Session met in the study on Sabbath 
 morning **to pray for the continuance of the blessing of 
 
 God's Spirit."t 
 
 Since 1861, Ruling Elders have been elected as fol- 
 lows : February ist, 1865, Messrs. Robert L. Cooke, Wil- 
 liam Patterson and Charles E. Webster. September 20th, 
 1874, Mr. John McAllister and Mr. John A. Esser. De- 
 cember 2ist, 1879, Mr. James Ross and Mr. William T. 
 King. December 14th, 1888, Messrs. John C. Dolon, E. 
 R. Enbody and John Nichol. March nth, 1892, Messrs. 
 Andrew Ross, Charles S. Belford and Wm. D. Evans. 
 
 Of those who have served in the Session during these 
 sixty years. Elders Thompson, Fegley, Hazard, Brodhead, 
 Porter and James Ross have been called from the active 
 duties of the Eldership to the higher service of Heaven. 
 
 ^Session Book, Vol. 11, p. 109. 
 f Session Book, Vol. 11, p. 113. 
 
4$ HISTORYOFTHE 
 
 Elder Ruddle resigned in 1852 and remained in the 
 communion of the Church until his death in 1865. El- 
 der G. W. Smith, one of the charter members of the 
 Church, and a member of the Session from the day of its 
 organization, resigned in 1861. After his removal from 
 Mauch Chunk he was an active member of the First 
 Church of Catasauqua, until his death. 
 
 Elder Forrest resigned in 1865, and continued in the 
 membership of the Church until his death. 
 
 Elders Rockwood, Webster and Esser since their re- 
 moval from Mauch Chunk have served as Ruling Elders in 
 other churches. Elder William T. King, having been en- 
 gaged in Home Missionary work in the Indian Territory, 
 was ordained to the ministry by the Presbytery. Other 
 Elders after leaving our town are active in the work of the 
 churches with whicli they are connected. 
 
 Mr. A. G. Brodhead served as Elder for thirty years, 
 Mr. Smith for twenty-six years, and Mr. Hazard for 
 twenty-seven years. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 49 
 
 THE SABBATH-SCHOOL. 
 
 ''Sabbath-school work in Mauch Chunk antedates the 
 existence of the Presbyterian Church by more than ten 
 years. While the Church was organized in 1835, there 
 was a school in 1825. There is reason for believing that 
 the first Sabbath-school effort in Mauch Chunk was organ- 
 ized by Joseph P. Engles, a name afterward widely known 
 in the Church, and for many years Superintendent of the 
 Board of Publication. Mr. Engles not only organized it, 
 but gave the school, books for a library. * * * The school 
 was organized and held its meetings for a time in a wheel- 
 wright shop, that stood very near, if not on the very spot, 
 where the Church now stands. * * Like all the Sabbath- 
 school work at the beginning, the school was union in its 
 character. * ^' The first to withdraw from the school were 
 the Methodists, who in the year 1832 had erected achurch. 
 This movement took away one-half of the school, and also 
 the Superintendent. This left the school composed of 
 Presbyterians and Episcopalians, under the charge of Mr. 
 John Simpson. Mr. Simpson resigned his position as 
 superintendent. The school then seems to have received 
 a new impulse through the influence of Mr. William H. 
 Sayre. He made a proposition that the work should be 
 
5(3 HISTORYOFTHE 
 
 carried on unitedly by himself, Asa L. Foster, James W. 
 Barnes and Nathan Patterson, beginning with the eldest, 
 Mr. Foster. This arrangement cont'nued until the organ- 
 ization of the Episcopal school. * ^ * Though both 
 Methodists and Episcopalians had withdrawn, the school 
 was in a good condition, having several very competent 
 and devoted teachers."* 
 
 In the Session Book we find this minute, bearing date 
 May 8th, 1839 : ''It was resolved that though the Cate- 
 chism is taught in the Sabbath-school, the Session will, 
 during the summer, examine the children on their profi- 
 ciency in it, at the close of the Sabbath afternoon service of 
 each week."t 
 
 On the 1 6th of February, 1840, the school was re- 
 organized and placed under the care of Session. *' The 
 meeting for that purpose was held in the west end of the 
 Public School building." The admirable feature of the 
 constitution is that the School in all its management is 
 under the control of the Session of the Church. Article 
 II says: 'The Superintendent of the School shall be ap- 
 pointed by the Session; and the other officers, including 
 the teachers shall be appointed by the Session and Super- 
 intendent'. Article III. 'Any officer of the School is 
 subject to removal at the discretion of the Session'. Ar- 
 ticle VI. 'The course of study to be pursued in the School, 
 
 •^Dr. Ferrier's Historical Sermon. 
 ■{•Session Book Vol. i, p. 24. 
 
FIRST PRESBYT:XRIAN CHURCH. 51 
 
 shall be prescribed by the Session.' The Constitution and 
 By-Laws are excellent in all their features, and the success 
 and prosperity of the School are largely due to the close 
 and constant supervision of the Church."* 
 
 Under date of February loth, 1841, we find the fol- 
 lowing minute in the Session Book." "The Sessio.i hav- 
 ing witnessed the progress of the School under these rules 
 for one year are satisfied of their excellent adaptedness and 
 usefulness. We have had an average attendance of sixty- 
 seven scholars, and five male and nine female teachers. 
 The following rules wdre added to those now in force. 
 
 Rule I. The teachers shall assign to their classes the 
 verses to be committed to memory, and they shall not hear 
 more than fifteen verses in ail, of hymns, Catechism, or 
 Scripture recited at one time by any scholar. 
 
 Rule 2. The Catechisms (the introductory and Short- 
 er) shall be recited once in the month, in the presence of 
 the Pastor, the teachers asking the questions of the class, 
 and the answer being made while standing, and in the hear- 
 ing of the school." f 
 
 From the annual "Narrative of Religion" in the Ses- 
 sion Book we glean many items of interest concerning the 
 School. In 1842 Mr. Webster writes: "The Sabbath- 
 school has been steadily increasing in interest and numbers, 
 one of the teachers having united withlhe Church during 
 
 *Dr. Ferrier's Historical Sermon. 
 fSession Book, Vol. I, p. 32. 
 
52 
 
 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 the year." * In the "Narrative of 1843, ^'^ ^"^^^e seen how 
 the Sabbath-school shared in the rich blessings of the re- 
 vival during the preceding year. In 1844, we read: *'The 
 Sabbath-school has been kept up with much interest at 
 three points throughout the year and at one during the 
 summer. "t In 1845: "Our Sabbath school is large 
 and flourishing; the greater part of the teachers are young 
 persons, trained in our School, punctual in attendance, 
 giving good diligence in their classes, but not followers 
 of Jesus. "J 
 
 In 1843, ^^^ ^"d a reference to "our Branch School at 
 Union Farms" and Mr. Peter L. Munnes was appointed 
 Superintendent. Of that School the Rev. J. H. Doremus, 
 in an historical sermon preached at Summit Hill, in 1884, 
 says: "Previous to Mr. Patterson's removal to Summit Hill, 
 he had been coming up from Mauch Chunk to Summit Hill 
 to look after the works. On these trips he had found a few 
 families residing in Bloomingdale Valley, near what was 
 known as the 'Old Farm', and seeing the neglected con- 
 dition of the children, proposed the establishing of a Sab- 
 bath-school in the log school house. On the following 
 Sabbath he, with Rev. Richard Webster, John Ruddle and 
 John Simpson from the Church at Mauch Chunk came up 
 and organized the Sabbath-school. The Bloomingdale 
 
 ^Session Book, Vol. i, p. 36. 
 j-Session Book, Vol. i, p. 51. 
 ^Session Book, Vol. i, p. 58. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 53 
 
 Scliool was broken up by tlie reinoval of all the families at 
 the 'Old Farm' in 1850." 
 
 In the Narrative for 1857, Elder Charles G. Rock- 
 wood, writes: " Our Sabbath-school prospers and is per- 
 haps larger than ever before. We have on the roll two 
 hundred and ninety scholars, and thirty one teachers with 
 an average attendance ai this season of the year of about 
 two hundred scholars and teachers. The teachers keep up 
 with interest a weekly meeting for study, which is well 
 attended."" 
 
 In 1863, we find the first mention of the Sabbath- 
 school in Upper Mauch Chmik. In 1864, there were one 
 hundred and four scholars in that school, and the total 
 membership of the two schools was three hundred and 
 twenty. This school continued in a flourishing condition 
 for many years, but was afterwards disbanded. 
 
 Our Sabbath-school, in East Mauch Chunk, which has 
 been so successful and is such a power for good, was organ- 
 ized in 1869, and in the report for 1895 it has one hundred 
 and ninety-three scholars. Total membership in our 
 Schools this year, six hundred and ninety-one. 
 
 After the re organization of the Sabbath-school in 
 1840, Mr. Nathan Patterson was appointed Superintendent, 
 and he held that office until he moved to Summit Hill, in 
 1844. The Superintendents afterwards appointed by Ses- 
 
 *Session Book Vol. 11, p. 66. 
 
54 H 1 S i O R Y O F T H E 
 
 sion were: Mr. John Ruddle, 1845; ^^^' Lewis Hoyt, 
 1848 ; Mr. George W. Helme, 1849. After Mr. Helme's 
 removal from town Mr. J. H. Siewers filled the Superin- 
 tendent's place for a year and a half, but without accept 
 ing the office. About 1852 Mr. Charles G. Rockwood 
 was appointed Superintendent, and he continued in office 
 until his removal from Mauch Chunk in 1857. It was 
 while Mr. Rockwood was Superintendent that the School 
 removed from the Public School building to the Lecture 
 room. That important event occurred, as we have seen, 
 on the 20th of July, 1856. 
 
 In August, 1857, Session appointed Mr. A. G. Brod- 
 head, Superintendent, which office he filled with loving 
 faithfulness until his resignation, on July 2nd, 1882. 
 Session placed on record the following minute: "Mr. 
 Brodhead has served the Church with great success and 
 acceptance in this capacity for twenty-five years. The 
 resignation was accepted, and the thanks of Session given 
 to Mr. Brodhead for his valuable, services.'"'' 
 
 Mr. Fisher Hazard, who had been ordained Elder the 
 same day as Mr. Brodhead, and who had served with him 
 as Assistant Superintendent, during his entire term of of- 
 fice, continued to hold that position in the Sabbath-school 
 until his sudden death, August 25th, 1888. He had held 
 that office for thirty-one years, and had also been teacher 
 of the Bible class for the same length of time. The 
 ■^'Session Book, Vol. iv, p. 26. 
 
PRESBYTERIAX CHAPEL, EAST MAUCH CHUNK. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 55 
 
 names of Mr. Brodhead and Mr. Hazard, so long and so 
 closely associated as they are with the history of our 
 C'hiirch and Sabbath school, have very sweet and tender 
 memories for many of us, who grew up under their loving 
 guidance. 
 
 Mr. John Nichol, was a})pointed Superintendent July 
 2nd, 1882, and we feel it is a cause for deep gratitude that 
 we are able to add that he still holds that resi)onsible po- 
 sition. 
 
 The Sabbath-school in East Mauch Chunk has also 
 been blessed with earnest, faithful Superintendents who 
 have devoted themselves to the interests and welfare of the 
 School. Among these, we must name Mr. (Charles E. Ami- 
 don, Mr. Frederick Moon, Mr. J. W. Lattig, Mr. Charles 
 C. Brown, and Mr. John Muth as those who labored with 
 untiring zeal and marked success in that office. 
 
 To this list of honored and devoted Superintendents, 
 we add the names of Mr Wm. C. Morris and Mr. Frank 
 B. Morris whose faithful work in the School in Upper 
 Mauch Chunk is gratefully remembered. 
 
 We have given the names of our Superintendents but 
 no mention can be made here of the faithful teachers who 
 have by their fidelity and devotion done so much for the 
 spirtual and temporal interests of the School they loved so 
 well. While their names cannot be mentioned many hearts 
 will recall them with tender love, for we know they are 
 enshrined in their memories, and that thev are written in 
 
56 HISTORYOFTHE 
 
 Heaven, whither so many have ah-eady gone to enter into 
 their reward. 
 
 In Dr. Ferrier's historical sermon he said; "As this 
 discourse is to be preserved as historical, it is the simplest 
 justice that grateful mention should be made of Mr. and 
 Mrs. C. H. Webb, who have done so much for years to en- 
 courage and sustain the singing in our School." Amid 
 the many sad changes in the eighteen years that have pass- 
 ed since Dr. Ferrier preached that sermon we are thankful 
 to be able to say that Mr. and Mrs. Webb are still with us 
 as then and that the passing years have only increased our 
 debt of love and gratitude to them. 
 
 "If we ask the question what has been done through 
 the instrumentality of the School as a help to the Church, 
 we can scarcely make answer. Eternity alone can unfold 
 the result of these labors. Many have been trained here 
 who have gone elsewhere, and are giving their testimony 
 to other churches and oth.r communities. We believe 
 that some have gone from our School to Heaven — seal- 
 ed for a better world before they left the School. We might 
 mention their names. Some of them are fresh in your 
 memory, and dear to you as your own loved ones. The 
 whole generation that is coming on to fill our pews in the 
 Church, to occupy the seats at the Communion Table, and 
 very soon the offices of the Church, have all been educated in 
 our School. I look with wonderand astonishment and thank- 
 fulness at whp.t God has done for \ou. It is not for anv 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 57 
 
 who work in this School to be discouraged. God has put be- 
 fore your eyes too many rewards of your labor; not to 
 speak of eternity, he has held up before your wondering 
 eyes too many rich, ripe clusters that only tell what may 
 yet be gathered in the future. 'Be steadfast, unmovable."* 
 
 "•■^Dr. Fenier's Historical Sermon. 
 
58 H I S T O R Y O F T H E 
 
 HOME MISSIONARY WORK. 
 
 We must remember that in the early days of our 
 Church, it was the centre of active Home Missionary 
 work in this entire region, even while it was itself strug- 
 gling for an existence. This work, unusual in such a weak 
 church, was the result of the ardent missionary spirit of 
 the first Pastor. Mr. Webster's friend, Rev. D. X. Juii- 
 kin, D. D., wrote: ''From that time (December 6th, 
 1835) to- the hour — indeed, to the moment of his death, 
 he continued to preach Christ crucified to that people, and 
 at many other points in the Pennsylvania coal regions. 
 He was emphatically the Apostle of the Coal Fields. He 
 threw his earnest heart, his clear, well furnished mind, his 
 untiring zeal, and his worldly substance, into the work of 
 evangelizing the population of the mining region and 
 towns. With a slender frame, he toiled on, hoped on, un- 
 til with God's blessing, his own immediate flock was en- 
 larged and became an important and efficient church, and 
 churches were organized, and houses of worship reared in 
 all that region. He was indefatigable in preaching, travel- 
 ling, visiting, corresponding and sustaining missionaries. 
 Whilst his own stipend was very small, he relinguished his 
 allowance from the Board of Missions, that it might be 
 given to other laborers in his favorite mountain-field. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 59 
 
 Often, like his Master, did he travel on foot great distances, 
 over steep and rugged roads, to carry the Gospel to the 
 destitute, and this without hope of earthly reward."* 
 
 As we have already seen, a number of our church 
 members lived at Summit Hill, and from 1835 to 1843, 
 Mr. Webster preached there one-fourth of his time, and 
 administered the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper twice a 
 year. At one time he remarks tiiat a large congregation 
 was present, and twenty-one persons communed. **In 
 May, 1839, twenty-three persons were dismissed from this 
 Church, and were organized by a Committee of Newton 
 Presbytery, into the Church of Summit Hill."f Later, 
 April 13th, 1842, we find this minute: " The Session 
 having heard that the corigregation of Summit Hill and 
 Tamaqua, residing in Tamaqua, intend to make application 
 to the Presbytery, at iis Spring meeting, for permission to 
 employ for the three sumn.er m.onths, Mr. William E. 
 Schenck, a licentiate of New Brunswick Presbytery, it was 
 resolved that the monies now in our Sacred Fund, ^13.25, 
 together with what may be raised at the Monthly Concert 
 in May, June, July and August, be devoted to the support 
 of Mr. Schenck, as the missionary at Tamaqua, Port Clin- 
 ton and the vicinity. "+ In the Narrative of Religion, in 
 1843, ^^- ^Vebster says: "The Missionary collection 
 
 ^Biographical Sketch. 
 fSession Book, Vol. II, p. I. 
 ^Session Book, Vol. I, p. 36. 
 
6o HISTORYOFTHE 
 
 has been larger than in any previous year ; with a portion 
 of it we sustained for three months a preacher at Summit 
 Hill and Port Clinton, and as a fruit, the former place is 
 now supplied with the preaching of the Gospel every Sab- 
 bath, and is nearly as well able to sustain a Pastor as we 
 are ourselves."* 
 
 As a result of Mr. Webster's missionary labors 
 churches were organized at Summit Hill, Port Clinton, 
 Beaver Meadow, Conyngham Valley, Tamaqua, White 
 Haven, Hazleton and Weatherly. 
 
 In the "Narrative" for 1844, Mr. Webster, says: 
 "Preaching is maintained on Sabbath afternoons at Union 
 Farms and Nesquehoning, and is well attended."*}" In his 
 early ministry he also preached regularly at Weissport and 
 Parry ville. In 1843, there was a deep religious interest at 
 Nesquehoning, and for several weeks Mr. Webster went 
 there every night in the bitter cold of winter and preached. 
 Long afterward, in i860 and 1861, we find that a mis- 
 sionary (Rev. Mr. Darroch,) was laboring at Nesquehon- 
 ing in addition to his work at Weatherly and Gnaden- 
 hutten. At his request. Rev. Mr. Hodge, with a Com- 
 mittee of Session, twice visited Nesquehoning, and re- 
 ceived into the membership of our Church eleven persons 
 residing in that village. The Lord's Supper was administer- 
 ed in Nesquehoning, March 31st, 1861, by the Rev. J. A. 
 
 ^Session Book, Vol. i, p. 45. 
 f Session Book,Vol, i, p, 51. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 6l 
 
 Hodge and Rev. Mr. Darroch.* Our Church had a special 
 interest in the work at Lehighton from its early days. 
 Rev. Dr. Belville preached there regularly, and when un- 
 able to do so on account of failing health, he saw that the 
 pulpit was supplied every Sabbath afternoon, until a pastor 
 was called. Unfortunately, no record has been kept of 
 this interesting work, and of the part our Church took in 
 it. The Lehighton Church was organized in 1872. 
 
 We review this work that the present membership of 
 our Church may have some idea of the missionary spirit 
 which animated its founders, and the desire they felt to 
 share the privileges they enjoyed, viz : The regular preach- 
 ing of the Word, an organized church, and a permanent 
 place of worship. 
 
 ^Session Book, Vol. II, p. I16. 
 
02 HISTORY O F T H E 
 
 MINISTERS. 
 
 One of the greatest honors that can be given to a 
 Church is to see her sons enter the ministry. Our Church 
 has had the privilege of having seven from her member- 
 ship ordained to preach the Gospel of the Lord Jesus 
 Christ. 
 
 In the "Narrative" of 1843, ^^- Webster, writes: 
 "It is with great delight that we mention that one of our 
 members is pursuing a course of study, preparatory for the 
 ministry,— a young man of approved piety, and discretion 
 and proniise.""-^ Again, in 1S49 : ''Three members of 
 our Church are preparing for the ministry. "f 
 
 These three, who were graduates of Lafayette College 
 and Princeton Theological Seminary, were : Rev. Ed- 
 ward Kennedy, ordained by the Presbytery of Winchester, 
 m 1851, now " Honorably Retired;" Rev. James Scott, 
 ordained by the Second Presbytery, of Philadelphia, in 
 1854, died 1861 ; Rev. Joseph W. Porter, ordained by the 
 Presbytery, of Philadelphia, in i860, died in 1890. Two 
 sons of the first Pastor entered the ministry after gradu- 
 ating from Princeton College and Theological Seminary. 
 
 ■^"Session Book, Vol. 1, p. 44. 
 f Session Book, Vol. i, p. 71. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 63 
 
 Rev. William S. C. Webster, licensed by the Presbytery of 
 Luzerne, and ordained by the Presbytery of Lehigh, in 
 1872.. now Pastor of the Presbyterian Church, at Islip, 
 New York, and tiie Rev. Richard B. Webster, licensed in 
 1872 by the Presbytery of Lehigh, and ordained in 1882, 
 by the Presbytery of Lackawanna, Pastor of the West- 
 minster Church, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 
 
 Besides those named, Mr. Peter Munnes, a member 
 of our Church from 1842 to 1846, the leader of our choir, 
 and the Superintendent of the "Branch Sabbath-school," 
 after leaving Mauch Chunk, was taken under the care of 
 the Presbytery of Baltimore, and licensed to preach. He 
 was ordained in 1853, and died in 1855 while engaged in 
 active Home Missionary work in Mi.ssissippi. 
 
 Mr. William T. King, an Elder of our Church and 
 active in all departments of its work, after leaving us en- 
 gaged in missionary work in the Indian Territory. As 
 his usefulness increased, Presbytery licensed him to preach, 
 and later, in view of his efficiency, and faithfulness, and 
 his many qualifications for work in that wide field, he was 
 ordained. He is still a Home Missionary in Oklahoma. 
 
64 HISTORY () F THE 
 
 THE C H U R C H. 
 
 A strong attachment to the church building has ever 
 been a marked characteristic of our people. 
 
 We have seen that the little stone church was utterly 
 inadequate lor the growing congregation, and that the sub- 
 ject ol a new church was agitated long before the work was 
 begun. About 1847 ^^ 184S several of the young ladies 
 proposed holding a fair to raise money for the furnishing 
 of the new church. The project met with general favor, 
 and we are told that the young people of the town, irre- 
 spective of denomination, heartily co-operated. This fair, 
 which seems to have been the first in Mauch Chunk, was 
 held in a building belonging to the Company, at the foot 
 of Broadway, near the river. It was a great success, and 
 the proceeds were invested with the Lehigh Coal and 
 Navigation Company and remained at interest until 1859 
 when the new church was ready to be furnished. The zeal 
 shown by one of the young ladies at that fair has only in- 
 creased with the passing years, and our Church owes much 
 to her executive ability, wisdom, untiring devotion and ex- 
 cellent taste. 
 
 We have been singularly favored in having in our 
 congregation many wealthy families who have given freely 
 
^ 
 
 1 
 
I ' 1 R S T PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 65 
 
 and largely to the church, and we hope that in future years 
 the memory of those who have so lovingly cared for its 
 temporal interests, and have so often come to its help \n 
 time of need, will be cherished and honored by those who 
 enjoy the fruits of their liberality. 
 
 We cannot fail to make mention here of the Board of 
 Trustees, who have so faithfully watched over, and guarded 
 the interests and welfare of our Church. On this Board, 
 have always been successful business men, who have freely 
 given their time, their experience and their wealth to the 
 service of Church. In times of financial distress, when 
 the future looked daik, these generous men have again 
 and again come forward and relieved the Church from debt 
 and anxiety. 
 
 The Church has been renovated and remodeled from 
 time to time, until it is now so beautiful and com|jlete: our 
 church-home, endeared to us by the tender memories and 
 associations of a life time. Handsome memorial windows 
 keep in constant remembrance, the names of some, who 
 have loved the Church and have borne such an honored 
 part in her history. The beautiful brass pul[)it and choir 
 rail were presented by Mrs. E. Polk, in loving memory of 
 her daughter. Mr. Samuel B. Price has given a lasting 
 memorial also in the very valuable library, intended for the 
 use of the Pastor of this Church. Such a library is a rare 
 gift, and the Pastors here will always have cause to thank 
 Mr. Price for his splendid generosity and thoughtfulness. 
 
66 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 The "Bertsch Fqnd", the roble legacy of Mr. Daiiie 
 Bertsch, Sr., has proved a real blessing to our Church and 
 Sabbath-school, for almost twenty years. Another of 
 these devoted friends, Mr. E. B. Leisenring, who recently 
 died, has left a similar gift for the permanent benefit of 
 the Church and School. 
 
 The beautiful little chapel in East Mauch Chunk, alsol 
 testifies to the desire of our people to have all that pertains 
 to the house of the Lord, perfect and complete. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 67 
 
 BENEVOLENCE. 
 
 Even when our Church was weak and poor, it was 
 urged by the Pastor to contribute to the benevolent work 
 of the Presbyterian Church. 
 
 It is pleasant to know, that even in those early days, 
 the ladies were interested in missionary work. In 1838, a 
 few met and discussed plans of work, and a sewini^ societ\- 
 was organized. After correspondence with the Secretary 
 of our Board of Foreign Missions, definite work was as- 
 signed ; the money was raised to buy the materials, and 
 soon the ladies were busily eng;aged in making some articles 
 of clothing for the out-fit of missionaries, about to go to 
 the foreign field. Our Foreign Missionary Society is after 
 all, only the successor of this brave little society, whicli 
 continued in active work for many years. 
 
 As to the gifts of the Church, we find in the Statisti- 
 cal Report for 1840, that ^45.00 was contributed for For- 
 eign Missions. As the work of the Presbyterian Cliurch 
 increased and new Boards were established, we find that 
 our Church contributed something to each one. In 1844, 
 we find this record : " The causes of benevolence excite 
 too little interest in the Church ; the sum contributed is 
 really far below our ability, and in fact four-fifths of it are 
 given by four or five persons."* Yet those contributions 
 compare favorably with those of the present prosperous 
 ^■"Session Book, Vol. i. p. 52. 
 
68 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 days. In 1849, with only ninety members, the Church 
 gave for Foreign Missions, ,585.00 ; Domestic Missions, 
 $20 ; Education, $20.00. 
 
 In 1841, the Session established what was called the 
 " Sacred Fund," and collections for it were taken on the 
 first Sabbath evening of each month. We have seen that 
 this Fund was used in direct missionary work in this vi- 
 cinity. 
 
 As the Church increased in numbers and wealth, the 
 
 benevolent contributions advanced. This was especially 
 marked during the pastorates of Drs. Belville and Ferrier, 
 and was no doubt owing to the faithful presentation of the 
 Boards of our Church, and information regarding their 
 work by the Pastors. Information and intelligence are 
 the indispensable forerunners of interest and benevolence. 
 Special collections have heen taken from time to time, 
 and always with great success. Perhaps the one in which 
 our people took most interest, was the Million Dollar 
 Fund for the Board of Ministerial Relief, in 1888. Elder 
 A. G. Brodhead had that matter in hand, 'and by special 
 canvass of the congregation, and by collections in Church 
 and Sabbath -school, the sum of $1,059.97 was raised. 
 The benevolence of our congregation is not limited to the 
 Presbyterian Church, for generous contributions are made 
 every year to the great undenominational agencies which 
 are doing such a grand work for Christ. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 69 
 
 T H p: choir. 
 
 Our Session Book tells us, that in June, 1844, a coni- 
 munication was brought before Session, " concerning the 
 formation of a Choir." The matter was placed in the 
 hands of Elder Ruddle, and, a few days later, he reported 
 that the plan proposed by Session had been accepted, and 
 the choir organized. It was ordered that the plan be re- 
 corded on the minutes. This was the plan : " The Ses- 
 sion of the Presbyterian Church, anxious to encourage 
 any attempt to improve the music of the Churcli, deputed 
 Mr. John Ruddle to see Mr. Struthers, and to propose to 
 him and others, through him, that they form themselves 
 into a Choir under these regulations : 
 ''i They shall select a leader, the Session having the right 
 
 to confirm or reject. 
 "2. At all times of public worship, the old familiar tunes 
 
 to be sung, except now and then, 
 ''3. At all times of public worship, the Choir is to observe 
 
 a decorum becoming the House of God, and to expel 
 
 from their number any person, when informed of his 
 
 or her misbehavior. 
 
 *-This arrangement to cease whenever the Choir shall refuse 
 
 to dismiss any member who may be complained of by the 
 
 Session "* 
 
 ■^'Session Book, Vol. i, pp. 53, 54. 
 
70 
 
 HISTORY O 1<' THE 
 
 Apparently complaints were made, for, in January, 
 1S47, ^^^^ Session took the following action : 
 "I. No complaint against the Choir or any member of 
 it shall be noticed, unless formally made, and accom- 
 panied by a responsible name, and when so made, the 
 party accused shall be notified and full opportunity 
 given to disprove the charge. 
 
 •'K * * 
 
 "3. The Viol is not to be used, unless there be necessity, 
 during the first two Psalms on Sabbath morning, and 
 not at all on Sacramental Sabbath morning. 
 "4. The House of God is never to be used on His holy 
 Day for a place to practice sacred music. '"^ 
 'I'he " viol ■'' alluded to was a grievance to sonie of 
 the older people, and so strong was the opposition at one 
 time that one of the members of the Church, who loved 
 its peace and order, had the offending instrument "stolen" 
 and hidden away. The viol was used in the " new 
 church," but was in time superseded by a melodeon, 
 which gave place to the organ in 1874. The largest con- 
 tribution to the purchase of the organ came from Mrs. 
 George Belford. The same generous friend who 
 took such a deep interest in all that pertained to the 
 Church, was specially devoted to its music. As one in- 
 stance of her liberality, when the Hymnal was introduced 
 ■'^Session Book, Vol. i, p. 63. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 71 
 
 in 1874, Mrs. Belford supplied copies of it to all who were 
 unable to buy it for themselves. 
 
 Mr. Charles H. Webb was appointed leader of the 
 Choir in 1866, and has held that responsible and trying 
 position ever since. Under his energetic leadership, and 
 owing to his untiring and devoted efforts, our Church 
 music is always hearty and inspiring. Mr. Webb also has 
 the entire charge of the music in the Sabbath-school and 
 for twenty-five successive years, he has patiently taught the 
 Christmas music, which is such a delightful feature of our 
 celebrations. 
 
 In connection with the music, we may speak of the 
 splendid piano, one of the last gifts to the Sabbath-school, 
 of Mrs. Andrew A. Douglas. Its sweet tones in the week, 
 night meetings, and in the Sabbath-school, speak to us of 
 the generous friend whose interest in the Church never 
 waned, and who has now joined the "Choir invisible." 
 
72 
 
 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 ORGANIZATIONS. 
 
 In these days, when societies of all kinds are multipli- 
 ed indefinitly, our Church has with the wise, conservative 
 spirit which ever characterized it, adopted only those which 
 are most useful and permanent, and which have the unquali- 
 fied approval of our honored General Assembly. Having 
 adopted them, and placed them under the care of Session, 
 they have become part of our Church life and history. 
 
 The Woman's Foriegn Missionary Society, organized 
 May 13th 1878; the Little Workers for Jesus, started the 
 same year; and the FerrierBand, organized in 1882, have 
 proved a permanent blessing to the Church in keeping 
 warm in the hearts of the women, young people and chil- 
 dieii, the interest in the work of Christ in heathen 
 lands. 
 
 The same may be said of the Home Missionary work 
 in the Society, organized in January 1888, and the Steven- 
 son Band, started in the same year. 
 
 The Christian Endeavor Society, organized in 1885, 
 continues to prosper, and help the young people. A Jun- 
 ior Society was started in 1893, and the Chapel Christian 
 Endeavor was organized also in November 1893. ^^ these 
 societies we hope to see developed the spirit of loyalty and 
 devotion to the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ. 
 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 73 
 
 THE MEMBERSHIP. 
 
 Our Church has great cause to thank God for its lov- 
 ing, loyal, faithful membership. In the early days when 
 there were only a few members and most of them hard- 
 working people, this devotion to the Church was specially 
 marked. It meant a great deal in those days, for people to 
 pay their pew rent and contribute to the missionary work 
 of the Presbyterian Church. Yet the very fact that it did 
 cost a struggle, only strengthened the character and deep- 
 ened the self-respect of those who were willing to make a 
 sacrifice, that they might contribute to the support of the 
 Church. We are told of one, who in addition to the cares 
 of a busy life, took in washing, that she might have money 
 to pay her pew rent. We hope that that strong, sturdy 
 spirit of personal interest and responsibility, will never be 
 lost. 
 
 But it is not only of the temporal interests we would 
 speak, but of the piety, the prayerfulness, the consecration 
 of many of the members of our Church, and of the beau- 
 tiful Christian lives, which have been and are being lived 
 in our midst. Zealous in every good work, abundant in 
 labor, joyfully serving the Lord, they have been a blessing 
 not only to our Church, but to the entire community. 
 
 Many have gone from us to other places, and in their 
 new homes, they have entered into church work with the 
 
HISTORY OF THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 
 
 same zeal and activity. We miss them, we need them, 
 but we can also rejoice in the wide-spread influence for 
 good thus exerted by those who were once with us, and 
 who still look back to this as the Church they love best. 
 
 From the communion of our Church, many have gone 
 to the "House not made with hands, eternal in the heav- 
 ens," Parted from us for a time, their memories and their 
 influence linger in the Church and the town, as a continual 
 blessing. 
 
 "With lis their names shall live 
 
 Through long succeeding years. 
 
 Embalmed with all our hearts can give, 
 
 Our praises and our tears." 
 
 Within the past few years, the meaibership has chang- 
 ed rapidly, and it is painful to miss so many we have loved 
 and honored all our lives. The officers and members, who 
 have for so many years watched over the Church and all 
 Its interests, with such loving, unwearied care, are passing 
 away, leaving the Church and the world the poorer for 
 their absence. With it all, we can turn away from the sor- 
 row and pain of these changes, and with strong faith, look 
 foward to a happy re-union, as we realize more fully, the 
 true unity of the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ, on earth 
 and in Heaven. 
 
 "One family we dwell in Him, 
 One church above, beneath, 
 Though now divided by the stream. 
 The narrow stream of death." 
 
1 1012 01217 5842 
 

 m