SSSS8 ^SOUVENIR HISTORY OF THE New England Southern Conference IN THREE VOLUMES VOL. I. NEW BEDFORD DISTRICT VOL. II. NORWICH DISTRICT VOL. III. PROVIDENCE DISTRICT VOL. I. NEW BEDFORD DISTRICT COMPILED AND EDITED BY REV. RENNETTS C. MILLER, S. T. B. Pastor, Methodist Episcopal Church, Nantasket, Mass. HISTORICAL SKETCH OF CONFERENCE BY REV. M. J. TALHOT, D. D. IT CONTAINS SPECIAL HISTORICAL SKETCHES "OF THE DISTRICT, THE CAMPMEETING ASSOCIATIONS, THE DISTRICT EPWORTH LEAGUE, THE. VARIOUS SOCIAL UNIONS, AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS; HIS- TORICAL SKETCH OF EACH CHURCH, WITH OVER FOUR HUNDRED ENGRAVINGS OF CHURCHES, PARSONAGES, PASTORS, PASTORS* WIVES, SUNDAY-SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS, EPWORTH LEAGUE PRESIDENTS, PROMINENT LAYMEN, ETC. OVER THREE HUNDRED PAGES. fICTURES AND BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES OF THK SUPERAytfUA TES, ETC. 1897 PUBLISHED 1897 WITH CONFERENCE CONSENT AND APPROVAL, BY REV. RENNETTS C.. MILLER, NANTASKET, MASS. COPYRIGHT, 1897, BY REV. REXNETTS C. MILLUK. I DEDICATE THIS VOLUME Uo /IDs /iDotber, AS AN HUMBLE TOKEN OF MY HEART-FELT GRATITUDE AND LOVE TO HER FOR THOSE YEARS WHEN SHE TOILED AND SACRIFICED AND SUFFERED THAT SHE MIGHT OBTAIN FOR ME THE GREAT AMBITION OF HER LIFE A COLLEGE EDUCATION. PUBLISHER'S NOTES. The Publisher, in distinction from the Editor, may be allowed a few words. After much delay we now send forth Volume I. to the public. No one in particular is to blame for the delay. A few delinquent churches are largely responsible for this long waiting. Our determination to have each church represented has been finally accomplished. Even with the delay some pictures, etc., came too late, and we have had to put them in a miscel- laneous group at the close of the volume. The engravings of this work (except a few loaned us) were made by the American Engraving Co. of Boston, whom we are glad to commend to our people. Of course, all the pictures will not appear equally good. Many of the photos were old and faded. In many cases the pictures had to be re- touched by an artist before the engravers could use them. Many extra features have been added to the original plan of the work which have increased considerably the size, and consequently the cost of the History. We trust the pastors and laymen will show their apprecia- tion for these features by renewed efforts to increase the sale of the volume in their respective churches. The tardiness in the canvass of many of the churches made it imprac- ticable to carry out our original plan to publish only the number of the ad- vance orders. We have accordingly issued a reasonable-sized edition, antici- pating the demand that there would be for the work. There will be no second edition published. Volumes II. and III. we hope to have ready for delivery in the latter part of January. R. C. M. * INDEX OF VOLUME I. THE CHURCHES. Acushnet 7 New Bedford Pleasant St 135 Barnstable 11 New Bedford Seamen's Bethel 125 Berkeley, (Mass) 23 New Bedford Portuguese 139 Bridgewater 13 North Dighton 141 Bourne 19 North Harwich 208 Bryantville 16 North Tisbury 146 Cataumet 25 North Truro 148 Centreville, (Mass) 156 Orleans 150 Chatham 29 Osterville 153 Chilmark 34 Plymouth 159 Cottage City 37 Plymouth Russell's Mills 163 Dighton 39 Pocasset 23 East Bridgewater 42 Provincetowii Center 170 East Falmouth 45 Provincetown Centenary 166 East Harwich 186 Sagamore 173 East Wareham 236 Sandwich 176 Eastham 47 Somerset 179 Edgartown 50 South Carver 182 Fairhaven 54 South Harwich 184 Falmouth 85 South Middleboro 189 Fall River Brayton 58 South Somerset 192 Fall River First 64 South Truro 198 Fall River North 68 South Yarmouth 202 Fall River St. Paul's 75 Taunton Central 207 Fall River Quarry St 71 Taunton First 213 Fall River Summerfleld 80 Taunton Grace 218 Little Compton 89 Taunton Tremont St 222 Long Plain 92 Truro 224 Marion 94 Vineyard Haven 228 Marshfield 97 Wareham '. 231 Marston's Mills 104 Wellfleet 2"8 Middleboro 107 West Dennis 243 Myricks 112 West Duxbury 101 Nantucket 114 West Falmouth 245 New Bedford Allen St 121 Westport Point 247 New Bedford County St 127 Whitman 250 New Bedford Cannonville 126 Woods Holl 254 New Bedford Fourth St 131 SPECIAL ARTICLES. Conference Home Missions XXVII New Bedford District League 4 Conference Indorsement of this Sou- New Bedford Social Union 118 venir History 27?. Nutting, Rev. J. H. and His Work ...259 Cummings, S. S. and His Work 262 Poem of Rev. J. W. Willitt 33 East Greenwich Academy XXI Providence Deaconess Home XXXI Editor's Introduction IX Publisher's Notes VI Everett, Rev. T. J. Biog. sketch XLII Superannuates Biographical Sketches. 263 Evangelists 188 Supernumeraries Biographical sketches Fall River Deaconess Home XXXV 263 Fall River Epworth League Union.... 57 Taunton Social Union 204 Hamlen, Pres. G. M. and His Work 169 Woman's Home Missionary Society Historical Sketch of Conference XII XXIX James, Rev. J. H. and His Work 261 Woman's Foreign Missionary Society Martha's Vineyard Camp-meeting. .XVII 257 Martha's Vineyard Revival XXXIX Yarmouth Camp-meeting 1 * For a general index of the three volumes see close of Vol. III. VIII SOUVENIR HISTORY. SPECIAL PICTURES. Bishops of M. E. Church II Blakeslee, Principal P. D XXII Cranberry Scene on Cape Cod 235 Cummings, S. S 262 Deceased members of our Conference, XV, XVI. 92, 96, (F. Upham and Lewis Bates) 270, 272 Deceased Presiding Elders XI Dunbar, W. M i.204 East Greenwich Academy Faculty. XXIII East Greenwich Academy Students XXVI Everett, Rev. T. J. Presiding Elder XLII Everett, Mrs. T. J XXIX Fall River Deaconesses XXXVII Fall River Deaconess Home XXXV Flint, Jno. D XXXVI Gould, Rev. Jno. B XXXIX Hamlen, Pres. G. M. and wife 169 James, Rev. J. H 261 James, Mrs. J. H 258 Jones, Rev. E. F 188 King. G. W. and wife 215 Lincoln, C. H 04 Local Preachers UO, 174, 263 Map of Our Conference I Martha's Vineyard Camp-meeting 50 years ago XVIII, XIX, XX Martha's Vineyard Camp-meeting Au- ditorium XXI Miscellaneous pictures 271 Montgomery, J. F 204 Morrison, Mrs. W. V 22 Nutting, Rev. J. H 260 Presiding Elders 273 Providence Deaconesses XXXII Providence Deaconess Home XXXI Raymond, R. F ...119 Sockanosset School for Boys 260 Superannuates and Supernumeraries XI, XVII, XXVII, 53, 70, 145 165, 272. Thompson, F. L 118 Tregaskis, Rev. Jas 188 Tregaskis, Mrs. Jas 258 Webster Home 98 Yarmouth Camp-meeting, Hanover Square 3 Yarmouth Camp-meeting, Tabernacle (interior) 3 Yarmouth Camp-meeting, Tabernacle, (exterior) 237 Yarmouth Camp-meeting, Railroad Park . ...217 DISTINGUISHED METHODIST MINISTERS FORMERLY MEMBERS OF OUR CONFERENCE. Bates, L. B 96 McChesney, Ensign 96 Binney, Amos (deceased) 96 Nutter, C. S 46 Chapman, J. A. M 46 Payne, Ex. Pres. Chas. H 6 Canoll Angelo ''deceased) 272 ritblado, C. B % Dorchester, Daniel 6 Reed. Pres. George E 6 Gallagher, Ex. -Pres. C. W 46 Stevens, Abel, (deceased) 165 Goodell, C. L 46 Taylor, E. M 46 Gracey, S. L ..96 Taylor, E. T., ("Father Taylor" de- Hamilton, J. Benson 272 ceased) 96 Hatfield, R. M., (deceased) 96 * Townsend, Prof. L. T 6 Haynes, Emory J 43 Trafton, Mark 96 Hutchinson, Pres. B. W 6 Upham, Prof. S. F 6 Jordan, D. A 48 Whittaker, N. T 272 Kimball, H. D 46 worth, W. T 46 Macdonald, Wm 46 * Since the earlier pages of Vol. I were printed we have learned that Prof. Townsend was never a member of our Conference. But has supplied some of our leading pulpits while teaching in Boston University. EDITOR'S INTRODUCTION, Believing that the story of the struggles and triumphs of the churches in our Conference will send a new impulse of holy zeal into thousands of lukewarm hearts, and inspire renewed loy- alty to our church, I offer this History to the public. The discour- aged people in many a church to-day can but gain new faith in God, and take fresh courage in their heroic efforts as they read of the wonderful way God has led many other churches out of bondage. The skeptic will find not a few interesting questions arising in the story of the churches that will be difficult for him to answer. The believer in prayer, faith, and God's over-ruling providence will find much to cheer and comfort him. The grand possibilities of our village and country churches will find many striking confirmations in these pages. Thus one village church (North Dighton) alone has furnished five ministers, one of whom is the distinguished Methodist educator and divine, Charles H. Payne, D. D., LL. D. This History calls attention anew (as many a pastor has found in searching for historical data) to the very important Disciplinary ques- tion, "Are the records properly kept?" Many cases have come under my observation where great and important church projects have been carried out, but not a line can be found in the church records concern- ing them. Doubtless many a pastor will look in vain for some refer- ence to a successful work done in a former charge simply because the present pastor in preparing the historical sketch for this work found nothing on the records to indicate such a work. The pictures of "distinguished Methodist ministers formerly mem- bers of our Conference" will be an interesting feature. More will ap- pear in Volumes II. and III. We doubt if there is another such a Conference in Methodism that has furnished other Conferences with so many of their ablest ministers. In this volume I have given also a part of the pictures of the deceased members of our Conference. The pictures of as many others, as can be secured, will be published in Volumes II. and III. I ask for assistance from all our friends in securing the pictures of all the deceased members of the Conference. As the countless friends and spiritual children of these heroes of earlier days look upon their faces in these pages, doubtless many tender and sacred memories will be revived. If some lukewarm, an d, perhaps, back-slidden souls, "Seeing shall take heart again," X SOUVENIR HISTORY. I shall feel that I have not spent, i n vain, the many precious hours upon this History. The biographies of the veterans (pp. 264-70) are very interesting. They deserve more recognition. After much correspondence for data the sketches herein given were compiled. The most of the historical sketches of the individual churches have been written by the pastors, but in many cases the Editor has made additions gathered from reliable sources. The special articles are all well written, and will greatly add to the value of the work. The story of the conversion of General U. S. Grant at Cottage City camp-meeting in 1874 will be valuable histori- cal data for the coming biographer of the great general. It is not improbable that there may have been many great reviv- als within the bounds of our Conference as noteworthy as that of Martha's Vineyard in 1853. But the fame of this one has long echoed in the Conference, and it seemed especially fitting to have Rev. Mr. Gould himself relate it to us while still living that we may "tell it to the generation following." In the interesting article on the district Epworth League Mrs. Douglas speaks of a very popular and widely-circulated booklet is- sued by the District League. The author's modesty forbade her say- ing that that booklet, "What Can We Do : A Handbook for Epworth Leaguers," was prepared largely by herself. Before closing these words I want to thank the many friends who have helped, and in various ways encouraged me in this trying enter- prise. Their kind words often came when greatly needed. I am pro- foundly grateful to the pastors who have quite generally given me their "hearty co-operation" in the preparation of the individual church histories, and in encouraging the sale of the work among their people. I am greatly indebted to many of the older ministers in the Confer- ence for their thoughtful suggestions. Among these I especially prize the wise counsels of my presiding elder, Dr. E. C. Bass. Rev. W. I. Ward has rendered much valuable assistance in "proof-reading" and editorial suggestions. Last of all, I want to acknowledge my indebtedness to my faithful wife, whose good judgment and abun- dant labors have contributed more, perha ( ps, than anything else towards whatever success has attended the publication of this Sou- venir History. Notwithstanding all our carefulness, many errors will likely ap- pear. But if the public will only apply the Golden Rule in its criti- cism I shall be satisfied. RENNETTS C. MILLER. Nantasket, Mass., Dec. 6, 1897. > 9 r ~ x * 35 t/j s S HISTORICAL SKETCH OF THE CONFERENCE. By Rev. M. J. Talbot, D. D. By the action of the General Conference, held in 1840, the Provi- dence Conference was constituted of those pastoral charges, and the ministers stationed in them for the time being, which are situated within the present boundaries of the New England Southern Conference. There were then, as there are now, three Presiding Elders' Districts: the Providence, New London and Sand- wich. At the first session, held at Providence in 1841, the Elders ap- pointed to preside over these districts were: Providence District, B. Other- man; New London District, A. U. Swinerton; Sandwich District, F. Up- ham. Messrs. Otherman, Swinerton and Upham had been Presiding Elders in the New England Conference, before the separation. 1842, the same, except that William Livesey was appointed Presiding El- der of New London District. 1843, the districts were called New Bedford, Sandwich and New London, the name of Providence District having been discontinued and the territory remaining as before defined: i. e., embracing the eastern and northern portions of the present New Bedford District, and all of Rhode Island. The Presiding Elders were: Sandwich District, Frederick Upham; New Bedford District, B. Otheman; New London District, Ralph W. Allen. The name of Providence District again appears in 1848 with Thomas Ely Presiding Elder, the territory remaining the same as under the previous designation. After this term of service David Patten was appointed to the district. Before his four years came to a close he had received and accepted a call to a professorship in the Biblical Institute at Concord, N. H., where he undertook and accomplished the task of raising funds sufficient to endow the institution and secure its removal to Boston, where it became the School of Theology of Boston University. The form and dimensions of the district were practically un- changed until 1869, the Presiding Elders during this interval being Charles H. Titus, George M. Carpenter, Paul Townsend and Samuel C. Brown. In the last named year, Bishop D. W. Clark presiding, the REV. M. J. TALBOT, D. D. SOUVENIR HISTORY. XIII Conference was divided into five districts, named Providence, New Bedford, Sandwich, Norwich and Danielsonville. Providence Dis- trict was constituted of Rhode Island (except Washington County and the towns on the northern border of the state) with a few adjacent towns in Massachusetts. This plan was in existence but a single year, at the close of which the number of districts w r as reduced to four, Danielsonville being eliminated. After a few years the original num- ber was restored, M. J. Talbot and George W. Brewster having occupied the presiding eldership four years each till 1878, when D. A. Whedon was appointed. At the Conference of 1879 Bishop Gilbert Haven made the experiment of a new layout of the territory, forming the Providence North District, comprising the parishes lying north of the great railways running east and west through the Conference from Massachusetts Bay to the Connecticut River, with exceptional stations south of that line ; Providence District, composed of the parts of Rhode Island and Connecticut south of the above named boundary, with a portion of Massachusetts; and New Bedford District. This arrangement continued three years, D. A. Whedon being Presiding Elder of Providence District and M. J. Talbot of Provi- dence North, the dividing line passing through the city of Providence. Dr. Whedon's term having expired in 1882, the form of districts now existing was adopted, and M. J. Talbot was again appointed to Provi- dence District and continued in that relation until 1886, when he was succeeded by D. A. Jordan for four years, and he by S. O. Benton, the first who has filled the office, in this district, for the continuous term of six years. DISTRICTS AND PRESIDING ELDERS. 1840-1842. Providence District: Bartholomew Otheman, '40, '41, '42. New London District: Asa W. Swinerton, '40, '41. William Livesey, '42. Sandzvich District: Frederick Upham, '40, '41, '42. 1843-1847. Nezv Bedford District: Bartholomew Otheman, '43. Frederick Upham, '44, '45, '46, '47. New London District: Ralph W. Allen, '43, '44, '45, '46. Erastus Benton, '47. Sandwich District: Frederick Upham, '43. XIV SOUVENIR HISTORY. Bartholomew Otheman, '44, '45, '46, '47. 1848-1868. Providence District: Thomas Ely, '48, '49, '50, '51. David Patten, '52, '53, '54. Charles H. Titus, '55, '56, '57, '58. George M. Carpenter, '59, '60, '61, '62. Paul Townsend, '63, '64, '65. Samuel C. Brown, '66, '67, '68. New London District: Erastus Benton, '48, '49, '50. Bartholomew Otheman, '51, '52, '53, '54. Levi Daggett, Jr., '55, '56. Anthony Palmer, '57, '58. L. W. Blood, '59, '60. Erastus Benton, '61, '62. George M. Carpenter, '63, '64. Pardon T. Kenney, '65, '66, '67, '68. Sandwich District: William T. Harlow, '48, '49, '50, '51. Pardon T. Kenney, '52, '53, '54, '55. Paul Townsend, '56, '57, '58, '59. Nathan .P. Philbrook, '60, '61. Pardon T. Kenney, '62, '63, '64. Thomas Ely, '65, '66, '67, '68. 1869. Providence District: S. C. Brown. Norwich District: Charles Nason. Danielsonville District : G. W. Brewster. New Bedford District: M. J. Talbot. Sandwich District: W. T. Harlow. 1870-1877. Providence District: Micah J. Talbot, '70, '71, '72, '73. George W. Brewster, '74, '75, '76, '77. Norwich District: George W. Brewster, '70, '71, '72, '73. William H. Stetson, '74, '75, '76. James Mather, '77. Pall River District: Samuel C. Brown, '70, '71, '72, '73. William V. Morrison, '74, '75, '76, '77. New Bedford District: William T. Harlow, '70. '71, '72. SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. James Mather, 73, '74, '75, '76. William H. Stetson, '77. 1878. Providence District: D. A. Whedon. Norwich District: James Mather. Neiv Bedford District: W. H. Stetson. 1879-1881. Providence District: D. A. Whedon. Providence North District: M. J. Talbot. New Bedford District: J. W. Willett. 1882-1897. Providence District: Micah J. Talbot, '82, '83, '84, '85. Dwight A. Jordan, '86," '87, '88, '89. Stephen O. Benton, '90, '91, '92, '93, '94, '95. Edward C. Bass, '96, '97. Norwich District: Henry D. Robinson, '82, '83, '84, '85. Edward Edson, '86, '87, '88. Eben Tirrell, '89, '90, '91, '92, '93, '94. George H. Bates, '95, '96, '97. New Bedford District: John W. Willett, '82. William V. Morrison, '83, '84, '85, '86 Charles W. Gallagher, '87, '88. Walter Ela, '89, '90, '91, '92, '93, '94. Thomas J. Everett, '95, '96, '97. XV DECEASED MKMBF.RS OK OUR CONFERENCE. N. GOODRICH. C. MORSE. I. WASHBURN. i843-'gi i845-'85. i8i6-'64 I'lie dates indicate the years spent in the ministry. B. A. CHASE. 1858-74- o o K ^c- u - - f, 2 K - c I * ~ * " REV. W. V. MORRISON, D. D. MARTHA'S VINEYARD CAMP-MEETING. By. Rev. W. V. Morrison, D. D. In August, 1835, a few Methodists on the Island and neighboring main held a camp-meeting in a beautiful oak grove on Martha's Vineyard. There were but nine rudely-con- structed tents erected that season, and only a few hundred people in attend- ance at the meeting. There were, however, no such disturbances from outsiders as were experienced at simi- lar meetings on the mainland in those days. The climate of the Vineyard was charming to these worshippers, as the gentle breezes of summer reached them from the surface of the salt water. The white sails of numerous vessels cheered their vision as they looked out on Vineyard Sound, which was then, as now, the great roadway for commerce along the coast east and west, and where it is said more vessels pass annually than in any other waters in the world except in the English Channel. The preaching was a deal and forcible presentation of the prominent doctrines of Scripture which pertain to man's salvation. The Holy Spirit enforced the truth and great good was accomplished. This was the forerunner of one of the most remarkable series of camp-meetings ever held in America, and which, with the exception of a single year 1845 has continued till the present time. The first years of its history were characterized by remarkable displays of Divine power among the people, resulting in the quickening of believers and the conversion of many sinners. The natural attractions of the place, however, early claimed attention. Many began to go a week or two before the date fixed for the meeting, and after the services closed others remained for rest and recreation. The number visiting the place gradually increased from time to time till 20,000 or more have been seen there in recent years. Small family tents sprung up around the large church tents, and furnished many comforts hitherto unknown to the worshippers ; after a few years these were replaced by beautiful cottages, in which the conveniences of home life are enjoyed from two to four months each season. As the shade of the old oaks began to disappear, a large canvas covering served to. protect the congregations, and this in 1879 gave way after many years SOUVENIR HISTORY. XIX of service to the great iron Tabernacle which now so admirably serves as a place of worship. The adjacent grounds have been cleared up, handsomely laid out and beautifully ornamented with shade trees, con- crete walks, grass plots and flower beds. Around this old camp- CAMP MEETING SCENES FIFTY YEARS AGO. ground Cottage City has grown up, with superb transportation accom- modations, fine residences, large hotels, numerous attractions and con- veniences, furnishing one of the most desirable watering places on the Atlantic coast. This history, however, would not be complete without brief refer- ence to a few visits made by men eminent in the councils of the nation. In 1862 Governor Andrew, the great war Governor of Massa- chusetts, visited the meeting. His coming was the occasion of an im- mense gathering at Cottage City. The audience assembled for the afternoon was far beyond the seating capacity of the place. After an able sermon by Rev. J. A. M. Chapman, His Excellency being previ- ously invited, followed in an address of masterly eloquence occupying an hour and a quarter. The historian of that occasion says: "He took a broad view of the present state of the country, and the history of our liberties. He spoke especially of slavery as the cause of our troubles, which he believed it was the design of God to destroy before giving us peace, and urged it as a religious duty to hasten to the rescue." His address was enthusiastically received by the people, and his senti- ments cheered again and again by Amens from the audience. In 1874 President U. S. Grant and party, including his wife, visited the meeting. Sunday was a great day; many thousands had arrived from the cities on the main. General Grant and most of his party were seated on the preacher's stand ; there were also present more than one hundred ministers, and an immense audience vastly beyond the seating capacity of the auditorium. The morning sermon was by XX SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. Bishop Gilbert Haven, D. D. ; text: Joel iii, 14: "Multitudes, multi- tudes, in the valley of decision." It was one of the greatest sermons of his life. The Holy Spirit enforced the truth as he uttered it, and the thronging- thousands were profoundly stirred. The sermon was CAMP MEETING SCENES FIFTY YEARS AGO. followed by a prayer service; hundreds knelt in fervent supplication, every heart in the vast multitude was moved by the power of God. General Grant sat in the midst, in appearance solemn and thoughtful. Being near him, I said to him: "General, you have commanded armies and they obeyed you; there is One above us all who claims your ser- vice, will you not bow with us?" After a moment's waiting he replied: "Thank you," and bowed his head. Following this service, a season of prayer, with his approval, was held by a few friends at the cottage where he and his wife were stopping. After his death, which occurred July 25, 1885, in a paper written by one of his former pastors at the Metropolitan Church in Washington, and who was present on the oc- casion above described, expresses the belief that General Grant entered into peace with God at Martha's Vineyard, and that through the later years of his life and severe illness, he was supported by the well- grounded hope of a blissful immortality. At this writing the sixty-second camp-meeting here is in success- ful progress, with services well attended, spiritual and helpful. Al- though the revival type of the services has somewhat changed, yet no one familiar with the history of the meeting can call in question its continued usefulness. The Association was incorporated for religious purposes, and has steadily adhered to this end in all its endeavors. The following are its officers, many of whom have served in their positions with great fidelity for more than a score of years: SOUVENIR HISTORY. XXI President Rev. M. J. Talbot, D. D. Vice-President Rev. L. B. Bates, D. D. Treasurer E. G. Eldridge. Secretary Eli H. Howard. Directors Rev. S. F. Upham, D. D., Rev. J. W. Willett, J. D. THE PRESENT AUDITORIUM. Flint, A. J. Nickerson, Jacob Burt, A. J. Manchester, Rev. W. V. Morrison, D. D., Rev. J. B. Gould, Caleb L. Ellis, Robert C. Brown, Cyrus Washburn, E. T. Sampson, Rev. A. W. Kingsley, Rev. F. P. Parkin, Z. L. Bicknell, E. G. Eldridge, S. H. Bailey, L. B. West. EAST GREENWICH ACADEMY. This institution was established in its present location in East Greenwich in the year 1802, as the Kent Academy. It was the second school of the kind in the state, and has continued to the present time without interruption for a single year. From the time of its founding the school continued under the administration of the corporation until its purchase, November 9th, 1841, by the Providence Conference (now New England Southern) of the Methodist Episcopal Church. A new charter for the institution was then obtained under the name of "The Providence Conference Academy." The corporate title was afterward changed to "The Providence Conference Seminary and Musical Insti- tute." In 1884 the property passed into the hands of a stock company; but four years later, in 1888, the stock was surrendered and the stock XXII SOUVENIR HISTORY. PRIN. F. D. BLAKESLEE.'D. D. company as such was abolished. It is now (1897) under the joint control of the New England Southern Conference and a body of able and carefully selected corporators. The buildings are on an eminence on the western shore of Narragansett Bay, and the location is of surpassing beauty, presenting a view of both shores of the bay for a distance of twenty miles or more. From the Academy building may be seen with the naked eye the cities of Providence, Fall River, Warren, Bristol and New- port. Many persons who have visited Europe pronounce the view from the institution equal to that of the bay of Naples. The Academy grounds con- tain five acres, giving a large campus and a lawn beautifully laid out and ornamented with trees and shrubbery. In the centre of these grounds stands the Academy building proper, one of the finest structures of its kind, erected in 1858. It contains a very superior chapel, commo- dious recitation rooms, art room, rooms for literary societies, offices, cabinet, laboratory, library and reading room. The original building was removed to its present site on Spring street, where, with some modifications, it is still in use for a public school. The Boarding Hall was erected in 1846, and in 1868 it was remodeled and enlarged at a cost of about $15,000. In the early morning of August nth, 1896, this building, with its contents, was totally destroyed by fire. Since then it has been necessary to supplement the other dormitory accommodations by cottages. A new one of eighteen rooms and all modern con- veniences was opened to students September 14, 1897. This fronts on Church Street. An elegant new dining-room and kitchen have been provided in the basement of the Academy building. The present ar- rangement, with better rooms and new furniture, gives more com- fortable quarters than those in the burned structure. The third build- ing, a private residence, situated on the north side of the Academy grounds, now known as the Winsor House, and used as a dormitory by teachers and students, was purchased by the institution in 1856. Across the street from the Boarding Hall is the Principal's resi- dence, acquired in 1888, with convenient and elegant parlors for use in the social life of the school. All these buildings are heated with steam and lighted by electricity. SOUVENIR HISTORY. XXIII FACULTY OP EAST GREENWICH ACADEMY. The design of the school is to furnish the best possible facilities for a thorough culture, under religious influences, in all departments of academic instruction. The institution has a library; and the mem- bers of the school have access also to the excellent free library of the town, of which the Principal is president, a few rods distant from the Academy grounds. The geological and mineralogical cabinet em- braces about three thousand specimens, and is rarely surpassed in variety and completeness. It has recently been completely reor- ganized. The specimens were all newly labelled and arranged under the direction of a Russian expert, for practical use in the classes of geology, mineralogy, etc. A number of fine specimens of silver and gold ore from the Rocky Mountains, over fifty typical specimens of valuable minerals, fossil remains and geological formations from Kan- sas and various marbles from New England, are among recent accessions. The institution has a good philosophical and chemical apparatus; a superior stereopticon; a set of English astronomical slides, showing the various real and apparent motions of the heavenly bodies; a fine collection of Levy's lantern views; an electric machine, with a twenty- four inch plate; Wig-hitman's gasometers, and a new compound micro- scope. The "Philognothian" and the "Adelphian" societies of gentlemen, and the "Aletheon," a society of ladies, hold stated meetings for dis- cussions and other literary exercises. XXIV SOUVENIR HISTORY. A large and well-conducted reading room is supplied with the most valuable and popular papers and periodicals from various por- tions of the country. The first conservatory of music in America was opened here in 1859 by the late Eben Tourjee, director of the New England Conser- vatory of Music, Boston. No academy in the country has been more widely celebrated for the superiority of its musical department. Pupils are here placed under the same systematic drill and receive for the most part the same studies which would be given them in the best conservatories of Europe. There is also a commercial college connected with the academy, and a department of stenography and typewriting; also an art depart- ment. A normal department was opened in 1888, which has trained several now successful teachers. Particular attention is also paid to elocution. The college preparatory department ranks among the first in New England. In 1888 the institution received $43,000 from the estate of the late Stephen T. Olney of Providence; $13,000 of this was used in paying a mortgage debt, leaving $30,000 permanent endowment. Following is the list of principals of the institution since it was founded: Abner Alden, A. M., 1802-1808; Josenh L. Tillinghast, A. M., 1808-1811; Aaron Putnam, A. M., 1811-1812; Ezekiel Rich. A. M., 1812-1815; James Underwood, A. M., 1815-1817; Rev. Daniel Waldo, A. M., died at the age of 104, 1817-1818; Benjamin F. Allen, A. M., 1818-1822; Nathan Whiting, A. M., 1822-1823; Charles H. Alden, A. M., 1823-1825; Rev. Ebenezer Coleman, A. M., 1825-1826; Chris- topher Robinson, A. M., 1826-1829; Rev. Henry Edes, A. M., 1829- 1831; Penuel Corbett, A. M., 1831-1832; Christopher Robinson, A. M., 1832-1833; George W. Green, A. M., 1833-1834; Joseph Harrington, A. M., 1834; Joshua O. Coburn, A. M., 1834-1835; Thomas P. Rod- man, A. M., 1835-1836; Joshua O. Coburn, A. M., 1836-1838; Rev. James Richardson, A. M., 1838-1839; Rev. Daniel G. Allen, 1839-1841; Rev. Benjamin F. Tefft, A. M., 1841-1842; Rev. George F. Pool, A. B., 1842-1843; Rev. Daniel G. Allen, 1843-1844; George B. Cone, A, M., 1844-1847; Rev. William Bagnall, A. M., 1847-1848; Rev. Robert Allyn, A. M., 1848-1854; Rev. George W. Quereau, A. M., 1854-1858; Rev. Micah J. Talbot, A. M., 1858-1862; Rev. Bernice D. Ames, A. M., 1862-1864; Rev. James T. Edwards, A. M., 1864-1870; Rev. David H. Ela, 1871-1873; Rev. Francis D. Blakeslee, A. M., 1873- 1884; Rev. Oliver H. Fernald, A. M., 1884-1885; Rev. Orange W. Scott, 1885-1886; Rev. Leonard L. Beeman, A. M., 1886-1887; Francis D. Blakeslee, D. D.. 1887 present Principal. SOUVENIR HISTORY. XXV FACULTY. 1897-98. Rev. FRANCIS D. BLAKESLEE, A. M., D. D., Principal, Syracuse and Wesleyan Universities. Greek and Roman History. GEORGE D. BUSSEY, A. B., Vice-President. Harvard University. Mathematics and Natural Science. THERON C. STRICKLAND, Commercial Department, RUSSELL B. MILLER, A. M., Ohio Wesleyan University. Greek and Latin. Mrs. AUGUSTA M. BLAKESLEE, A. M., Preceptress, Syracuse University. Mrs. ISADORA B. BUSSEY. New England Conservatory. Director of Music, Organ and Piano. Miss A. JENNIE COX, Art Department. Mrs. MARY A. STRICKLAND, Stenography and Typewriting. Miss ANNA M. STARBUCK, French, Normal and English. Miss ADDIE E. ROES, Emerson School of Oratory. Elocution. Miss ANNE A. LATHROP, Wellesley and RadclifiV Colleges. History and English. Miss ANNA F. SMITH, East Greenwich Academy. Vocal Culture and Piano. Mrs. LILLIAN M. MILLER, B. L., Ohio Wesleyan University. German. SOUVENIR HISTORY. XXVII Among the prominent alumni of the Academy may be mentioned the Rt. Rev. Willard F. Mallalieu, D. D.; the Rev. William F. Warren, D. D.; LL. D., President of Boston Univer- sity; the Rev. C. H. Payne, D. D., Secretary of the Board of Education of 'the Methodist Episcopal Church; the Rev. S. F. Upham, D. D., LL. D., Professor in Drew Theological Seminary; the Hon. Nelson Aldrich, United States Senator from Rhode Island; Prof. Alonzo Williams, of Brown University, and Justices Mat- D. A. WHEDON, D. D. teson and Tillinghast of the Supreme President Board of Trustees. ^ - , Court of the state. The institution has exerted an important influence in the educa- tional work of the state, a large proportion of its public school teach- ers having been educated here. Its alumni are found in prominent positions in business life and official stations. CONFERENCE HOME MISSIONS. By W. I. Ward. During the session of 1878 the Conference organized the Confer- ence Home Missionary Society, declaring its object to be a more vigorous prosecution of the missionary work within the bounds of the Conference. W. V. Morrison, D. D., who had earnestly advocated the movement and had been largely influential in giving it form, was made first president of the society. Fifteen years later, after the wisdom of the general plan of operation and the importance of the work had been fully demonstrated, the form of organization was changed, and the Board of Conference Home Missions was sub- stituted for the Conference Home Missionary Society. The officers of the Board are chosen annually by the Annual Conference. The presiding elders are members ex offrcio. There are eighteen other members of the board, three ministers and three lay- men from each presiding elder's district. These are elected by the Annual Conference in classes, each class consisting of one minister and one layman from each district. One class is elected each year to serve during a term of three years. The work undertaken by the society, and now committed to the Board, is to provide and administer financial aid at specially needy XXVIII SOUVENIR HISTORY. and deserving points within our Conference. By its aid unoccupied fields have been entered and churches established therein. In charges already established it has helped to acquire new church property or to improve the old. It has come to the relief of burdensome indebted- ness and has encouraged the maintenance of existing churches in communities which need them, but are unable adequately to support them. There are in the Conference about twenty churches which were organized under the fostering care of the home mission movement. The erection or improvement of more than thirty houses of worship has been secured by the co-operation of this organization. In various ways over eighty churches have received needed assistance from this source. Funds to support this work are raised in several ways: 1. The Conference asks and expects each church to take a collec- tion every year for this cause. 2. There is a "Standing Subscription List" on which a consider- able number of persons have placed their names pledging themselves to pay annually, until they give notice to the contrary, a fixed sum to the treasurer of the Board, beside contributing to the cause through the regular channel of the collections in the local church. 3. Several sums, aggregating $2,000, have been given to the Conference Trustees with instructions that the income thereof shall be paid each year to the Board. The officers and members of the Board are as follows: President R. S. Douglas. V ice-President Costello Lippitt. Secretary W. I. Ward. Treasurer J. S. Bridgford. Ex-Officio Members The Presiding Elders. ADDITIONAL MEMBERS. For One YearR. D. Robinson, S. O. Benton, W. J. Yates, S. H. Bailey, James Taylor, H. B. Smith. For Two Years R. B. Cady, B. F. Simon, J. S. Wadsworth, J. W. Horton, W. E. Walker, F. M. Messenger. For Three Years G. W. Hunt, E. F. Clark, F. C. Baker, J. D. Flint, David Gordon, J. E. C. Farnham. MRS. T. J. EVERETT. WOMAN'S HOME MISSIONARY SOCIETY. By Mrs. T. J. Everett. The Woman's Home Missionary Society of the New England South- ern Conference was organized in 1883 at the Chestnut Street Church, Provi- dence, during the session of the An- nual Conference. Mrs. R. S. Rust of Cincinnati, Ohio, General Corres- ponding Secretary of the society, and Mrs. L. M. Dunton of South Caro- lina, addressed the meeting and as- sisted in the organization. Mrs. Joseph Hollingshead was elected President; Mrs. James Mather, Cor- responding Secretary and Treasurer, and Miss E. L. Manchester, Record- ing Secretary. During the early years of the society these ladies, together with a constantly increasing number of assistants, did valiant service in establishing the society and securing its recognition in the Conference. By years of residence in the South, Mrs. Mather was providen- tially fitted for the work. She spared neither time, strength, nor means in seeking to arouse the women of the church to the great need of missionary work among the neglected classes of our own country. Gradually hearts warmed toward this new department of the Master's work, and the first year witnessed the organization of five auxiliaries. During the years since the society has gained slowly but steadily. At the last report we had forty-one organizations, with a membership of about nine hundred adults and two hundred and fifty young people and children. The cash receipts for all departments of work were about $3,000. In addition to this the society has done good work in sending much needed supplies to the frontier. For several years the special work of the society was the estab- lishing of a Model Home and Industrial and Training School at Cam- den, South Carolina. A legacy of $2,000 from Mrs. Fannie O. Brown- ing of Montville, Conn., greatly assisted in this work, and the new home was called by her name. This home and school has now for years been doing a much needed and very successful work among the colored young people in its vicinity. Last year forty girls lived in the home. The day school had an average attendance of one hundred and twenty-five XXX SOUVENIR HISTORY. and the night school thirty-three pupils. The ages of the pupils range from ten to twenty-five. The advantages of such an institu- tion are highly prized by the people of the community. Its current expenses are more than met by the tuition from pupils. The building is now being enlarged to provide for the work. Other departments of the society's work have not been neglected. Through the gifts and prayers of the women of our Conference, souls have been saved and lives brightened in far distant regions, among the Negroes, Indians, Chinese and Alaskans. Not only this, but the "children of the poor" are being cared for at our homes at York and Tivoli. The sinning and suffering ones of the "submerged tenth" in our great cities are being sought and ministered to by our mission- aries and deaconesses, and the strangers at our gates are being wel- comed, sheltered and guided into safe paths. In all these blessed ministries we have a share. May opportunities for future usefulness be greatly increased by large accessions to its ranks of workers and added gifts to its treasury. The present officers of the society are: President Mrs. T. J. Everett. Corresponding Secretary Mrs. J. A. Southard. Recording Secretary Mrs. J. H. Allen. Treasurer Mrs. J. F. Cooper. THE DEACONESS HOME. THE PROVIDENCE DEACONESS HOME. By Miss Margaret E. Todd, Supt. The home was opened early in June, r8o5, in a rented apartment of eight rooms, located at 167 Courtland Street. The first year the family comprised Mrs. Carrie Frances Collins, Super- intendent; Miss Mary Anna Taggart and Miss Margaret Lucy Eckley, visiting Deaconesses, from the Chicago Train- ing School. This year the Deaconesses served St. Paul's, Asbury, Hope Street and Tabernacle churches. Near the close of the year Miss Taggart's health required her to choose another field of labor, and Mrs. Collins resigned as Superintendent. At the opening of the second year our members were reinforced by arrival from the Chicago Training School of Miss Mar- garet Etta Todd to serve as Superintendent, and Miss Blanche Leora Baker as visiting Deaconess. This year some service was rendered to each of the following churches, viz.: Mathewson Street, Chestnut Street, St. Paul's, Tabernacle, Broadway, Cranston Street, Asbury, Hope Street and Trinity churches. To obtain the best results a Dea- coness should be assigned to but one church at a time, and that for a period of not less than one year. When establishing the work the Board of Managers deemed it wise to give to as many churches as possible a practical illustration of a Deaconess's work; so, having but three Deaconesses, each was assigned a broad field of three churches, to serve as she best could, dividing her time among them. By this plan the work has grown in favor with our city Methodists, as is evidenced by the increased amounts pledged for the support of the Home. In November, 1896, our first class in kindergarten was formed, con- sisting of twenty-four little girls under twelve years of age gathered from the homes of the poor visited by the Deaconesses. Accom- panied by a piano, the children sing easy rhymes describing methods of work, while the hands are busy building fires, laying the table for dinner, making beds and performing many other domestic duties with miniature furniture. Such class work as this has been the means of XXXII SOUVENIR HISTORY. elevating some homes. Almost any labor of love a Deaconess can render to one sick or in trouble belongs to the work of and is the pleasure of a Deaconess. Many testify to the lightening of their cares and the brightening of their homes through the visits of these Dea- coness, who do all "For Jesus' Sake." THE PROVIDENCE DEACONESSES. At the opening of the third year Miss Isa Dora Boardman came from the Chicago Training School as Deaconess Housekeeper to take the place of Miss Frances Borden Gardiner, resigned. The first of July, 1897, the Home was moved to a ten-room cottage (see cut) located at 85 Harrison Street. These premises have been leased for a term of three years. At the end of that period, we hope a home of our own will be at command through the generosity of one or more of our friends. Monday is visitors' day, but the Home is always open to its friends. Donations of cash and supplies for the sick and poor are always needed and gratefully received. A BUSY DAY. Breakfast at 7 o'clock, then our family devotions. A few house- hold duties to be attended to, and in the meantime some gruel must be made for the dear old lady, who is so ill. The gruel is ready, and after a walk of a half a mile, the old lady's room is reached, which is up two flights of stairs in an attic. She is able to sit up this morn- ing, but she must have a fire built, the ashes carried out, some water brought upstairs, her bed made, her room put to rights, her hair brushed and a visit to the grocery must be made to buy the needed SOUVENIR HISTORY. XXXIII supplies for the day. Then, after a chapter from God's Word, and a prayer that He would be with her and comfort her during the lonely hours that she must be alone, the deaconess wended her way back to the Home, and on the way she was planning in her own mind how much she would accomplish before the noon hour. But on her ar- rival at the Home, Mrs. A. was waiting to see her. Mrs. A. called in to get a dress and jacket for Mary, a pair of trousers and a cap for Johnnie, and a pair of shoes and a coat for her husband, and a "job" of work for herself. A half hour was spent in the "supply closet" and most of the needed articles found, and Mrs. A., with a grateful heart and laden with her bundles, said "Good morning." The deaconess seated herself at the office desk and began to write, but not long, for the doorbell rang once more, and dear old Mrs. B. walked in and inquired for "my deaconess." She was called from her writing to attend to the wants of Mrs. B., who had come in to make an exchange; a few days before she had gotten a waist from our "supply closet" for her daughter, but she thought it was too gay, and wanted to get one that was more plain. Another visit to the supply closet was made, and a more sombre garment found, and Mrs. B. went on her way. That morning there had come by express from one of the Ep- worth Leagues on the district, a box of flowers. Immediately after dinner, laden with a basket of these lovely blossoms, the deaconess started for the hospital. Thirty-three calls were made there, leaving with each sufferer in the ward a bunch of flowers and a word of com- fort and cheer as best she could. From the hospital a call was made on a woman who had deeply interested the deaconess. She was a woman who was trying hard to live right, but she lived in a bad neighborhood, and her associations did not tend to help her in the direction of being and doing better. Her neighbors had the habit coming in and making a friendly call now and then, and bringing in a pail of beer just to make things a little more lively. The deaconess had a faint suspicion that afternoon that some of the neighbors had made Mrs. M. a friendly call, so she asked if she had not been drink- ing beer, and in an embarrassed way she acknowledged that she had taken "just a little." Poor woman, she has made many an attempt to do what was right, but she lacks strength, is easily influenced, and her bad associates tempt her and she sometimes yields. The deacon- ess gave her a very plain talk along the line of temperance, and then they knelt down together in that wretched home and asked God to give her strength and to help her to keep from evil, and Mrs. M. promised she would do better, and the deaconess had faith in her that she would keep her promise. XXXIV SOUVENIR HISTORY. It was now 5.30 P. M. and time to return to the little Home, which never seemed sweeter, after seeing so much that was unpleasant and wretched. The afternoon had brought another box of flowers from a Junior League in Connecticut, and as they were so beautiful and fresh immediately there came into the mind of the deaconess five dear old ladies, whom she called her "shut ins," and they must have some of these flowers. Supper was over and evening prayers in the little Home. The deaconess was somewhat weary in body, but the flowers ought to be taken out and prayer meeting must be attended. The five bouquets were delivered and a word of good cheer left. The prayer meeting was reached a little late, but all the more enjoyable for making those few last calls. BOARD OF MANAGERS, 1897-98. President, Henry A. Fifield, 78 America Street; First Vice-Presi- dent, Frank H. Maynard, 420 Angell Street; Second Vice-President, Noel L. Anthony, Norwood Avenue; Treasurer, Mrs. Edward Shaw, 2d., P. O. Box 201 ; Corresponding Secretary, Miss M. Ella Stewart, 65 Pitman Street; Recording Secretary, Mrs. Wm. Jamison, 101 Corn- stock Avenue; Managers, Mrs. C. E. Hancock, 239 Adelaide Avenue; Mrs. J. W. V. Rich, 375 Blackstone Street; Mrs. H. S. Lamson, 17 Battey Street; Mrs. William W. Munroe, East Providence; Mrs. G. N. Bullock, 378 Carpenter Street; Mrs. M. E. Douglass, 135 Brook Street; Rev. E. C. Bass, D.D., 90 Harrison Street; Rev. M. S. Kauf- man, 20 Sackett Street; Rev. W. S. Mclntire, 288 Potter's Avenue; Rev. A. J. Coultas, 113 Somerset Street; Rev. J. M. Taber, 31 Dart- mouth Avenue; George W. Amison, Olneyville; Charles L. Hazard, East Providence; Frederick A. Horton, 56 Doyle Avenue; Josiah L. Webster, 103 Parade Street. FALL RIVER DEACONESS HOME. By Rev. L. M. Flocken. In the Epistles of St. Paul a number of female helpers are men- tioned. In Rom. xvi, i, Phoebe is referred to as a "deaconess" (R. V. Marg.). This has led many to think that an order of deaconesses ex- isted in the Apostolic Church, as there undoubtedly did a little later THE HOME. (see Pliny, Ep. ad Traj.). The Apostolical Constitutions prescribe their duties and give a form of ordination (Bk. viii, ch. xix, 20). Abundant evidence is found in the writings of the church Fathers that such an order flourished in the early centuries of our era. It was, however, abrogated in France by the Council of Orange, A, D. 441, and gradually disappeared from the Latin Church about the sixth century and from the Greek about the twelfth. Attempts at restoration were made by some of the Reformers. Deacons, both men and women, seem to have been recognized by the Puritans in the i6th century (see Neal, History of the Pur., vol. i, ch. v, p. 140), but the first successful reorganization of the Dea- coness work was made by Pastor Fliedner, in 1835, at Kaiserwerth, Prussia. He established an infirmary to be served by Christian women devoting their time and faculties without pecuniary emoluments or worldly honors. The movement met with such success that it rapidly spread to other countries. The honor of originating this work in the M. E. Church belongs to Mrs. Lucy R. Meyer of Chicago, who has rightfully been styled the XXXVI SOUVENIR HISTORY. "Mother of the Deaconess Movement in Methodism." Under her guiding hand the Chicago Home and Training School was estab- lished, and from this beginning the movement has spread to almost every city in the union. The General Conference of 1888, held in New York City, officially recognized and adopted it as an organic part of the Church. The duties of the deaconess as defined in the Church Discipline are: "To minister to the poor, care for the sick, provide for the orphan, comfort the sorrowing, seek the wandering, save the sinning." No vow of perpetual service is exacted, she may relinquish her work at any time; her service is voluntary, but she is entitled to a suitable support. The introduction of this noble work into Fall River is due to Mr. J. D. Flint. Although many others have labored faithfully and contributed lib- erally, the Home must ever gratefully acknowledge him as its chief benefac- tor and founder. He had been favor- ably disposed toward the movement from its inception, but his first meeting with Mrs. Meyer was at the Ecumeni- cal Methodist Conference held in Washington. Her address deeply im- pressed him, and at its close he re- marked to her that he thought Fall JOHN D. FLINT. RiVCr WOUld SOmC time haVC * Deaconess Home. For some time he employed Miss Emma Ross to do similar work as "city missionary." Her reports greatly encouraged Mr. Flint, and he decided that a Deaconess Home in this city would be an excellent investment for the cause of our Master. He made known his purpose and plan to his pastor, Rev. A. J. Coultas, to whom much credit is due for giving form and direction to the movement. He called a meeting of the pastors and lay representatives of the various M. E. churches in the city on December 21, 1892. After due consideration the fol- lowing persons signed an agreement, associating themselves together with the intention of forming a corporation and applying for a charter : J. D. Flint, William S. Green, A. J. Coultas, John R. Butterworth, Job Gardner, John G. Gammons, John N. Wilde, Walter Ela, Warren A. Luce, Frank S. Brooks, Louis M. Flocken, Iram N. Smith, Lafayette Nichols, A. J. Marble, Charles E. Case, T. F. Vickery, R. D. Dyson, Daniel Moore. The corporation was legally formed and a constitution adopted SOUVENIR HISTORY. XXXVII January 20, 1893. It provides that any M. E. church in Fall River desiring may have at least two representatives in the membership of the corporation, which holds a meeting" annually in June; and that there shall be a Board of Managers composed of seventeen members besides the officers, holding regular meetings in January, April, June, July and October. On June 22, 1893, Mr. Flint donated dividend-paying mill stocks amounting to $10,000 to the corporation, to be held as a perpetual endowment. At a meeting held in January, 1894, the Benjamin Covel estate on Second Street was purchased at an expense of $8,800. About $1,600 was raised and expended in remodeling and repairs. Mr. Flint made a proposition that if the Board raise $1,000, he would see that the balance was paid. This was done, and on June 26, 1895, the note was liquidated and this magnificent estate, now valued at THE FALL RIVER DEACONESSES. Mrs. K. M. Cooper. Mary N. Adams. Mrs. Sadie R. Griffin. Stella M. Bounds. M. Emma Ross. $15,000, became the property of the Fall River Deaconess Home, without incumbrance. The services of Miss Mary N. Adams, Superintendent, and Miss Nellie Olsen, both of the Chicago training school, had been secured, as also M. Emma Ross of the Boston school, who began their work about the first of June, 1894. The Home was formally opened with a reception and public exercises June 27, the Rev. W. N. Brodbeck, D. D., of Boston, delivering the address. In the summer of 1895, Miss Florence A. Vaillancourt and Miss Grace Adams came to the Home, Miss Lulu I. Clifton taking the place of the latter in the fall. XXXVIII SOUVENIR HISTORY. Mrs. Sadie R. Griffin took up the work in 1896, and Miss Stella M. Bounds and Mrs. K. M. Cooper in 1897. Some of the above have gone elsewhere, leaving at present a force of five whose names are given below. A Deaconess Aid Society was organized in the fall of 1894, which as its name indicates, assists in the support, furnishing and work of the Home in many ways. The Deaconess movement in this city, though yet in its infancy, is no longer an experiment, but an assured success. The Superin- tendent's reports up to about January I, 1897, show that 21,615 calls have been made, of which 1,563 were upon the sick; 1,980 garments have been given away; baskets of food and other articles of necessity and comfort to the number of 1,411 have been distributed; situations secured for forty-eight persons; religious meetings have been held in hospitals, almshouses, and homes; 1,465 hours have been spent in nursing the sick, and 4,920 hours spent at other work in the homes of the needy. Many children have been brought into the Sunday Schools, and neglected ones into our churches. Many touching inci- dents have been witnessed, and Christian and charitable services not reducible to statistics have been rendered by these devoted women. God is in the movement. May He raise up multitudes who shall "assist them in whatsoever business they have need of: for they have been succourers of many." Present Deaconesses Mary N. Adams, Superintendent ; M. Emma Ross, Mrs. Sadie R. Griffin, Stella M. Bounds, Mrs. Kate M. Cooper. Present Board of Managers John D. Flint, President; Job Gardner, Vice-President; I. N. Smith, Treasurer; Rev. L. M. Flocken, Secretary and Corporation Clerk. Rev. S. O. Benton, D. D., Rev. J. H. MacDonald, Rev. H. A. Ridgway, Rev. Alexander Anderson, Rev. E. W. Eldridge, John R. Butterworth, Chas. E. Case, Cora Hacking, Margaret Bury, Sarah E. Booth, Nancy Kershaw, Mary N. Adams, Mrs. R. N. Allen, Mrs. William Thorpe, Mrs. S. W. Gibbs, Mrs. George Whittaker, Mrs. E. F. Stafford. THE GREAT MARTHA'S VINEYARD REVIVAL OF 1853. By Rev. John B. Gould. In 1852 I was stationed at Edgartown. In 1853 we commenced a series of meetings, with remarkable results. We held services in the church one hundred nights in succession. No sermons were needed, for there were spiritual giants there. It seemed that old Edgartown and the whole island of Martha's Vineyard were shaken by a mighty gale. A series of balls commenced at the same time. The first pro- ceeded a short time, and there being no interest they early adjourned, and that same night the leaders were at our altar. Their festivities were ended, and nearly all of them were soon converted. The aged and the young swarmed to the church every night. Through storm and fair the place was crowded. One of the most remarkable events I ever knew was the conversion of Freeman N. Blake, a professed in- fidel. He was principal of Dukes County Academy, and afterwards a lawyer and consul of the United States in Canada. He had once heard me preach on the new birth, and went out denouncing me and said he would never hear me again. One terribly stormy night he came in, sat a few minutes, and then rose and asked if he might speak. Being requested to go on, he said he did not believe in such things at all, but was open to convic- tion, and if we were right he was ter- ribly wrong. Unasked he immediately went forward, knelt and said, "Pray for me." During the first prayer he fell prostrate, and seemingly stran- gled; he tore open his collar and I thought him dead. He was as rigid as if frozen. In a few moments his rigidness gave way, and being assisted to his feet he said, "I have learned the lesson of my life. I have seen the Savior on the cross dying for me, and He has saved me." The whole audience were on their feet, having gathered about, as they supposed, the dying man. He wrote immediately to his brother and family in Cambridge, narrated his experience, and begged them to seek the Savior. They did so, and still live as Christians in Boston. This letter of four large square pages is now before me, and reads like Paul's account of his conversion. He obtained that letter again, and sent it to me forty years after the event. REV. JOHN B. GOULD. XL SOUVENIR HISTORY. I was at his funeral, and his record to the last was that of one who had turned many to righteousness. This was but one of the many conversions as remarkable as any of which I have ever read. I have never known a more thrilling his- tory than that of these one hundred nights and the results that fol- lowed. The detailed account would fill a large volume. The first fruit of that revival still lives as an example of steadfast devotion and a lifelong helper in every interest of the society. She came into the church as a child would enter the father's house, having no doubt of a welcome there, and calmly states that she is only waiting to enter the house above. She has ever been foremost in every good word and work. The sister of this devoted woman was a celebrated musician, and played the organ at the church for many years, also writing superior music. She became a sincere convert, and after a devoted life became the victim of a malady that required a difficult surgical operation. Just before starting for the hospital she said to a friend, "Let us sing one more hymn before I go," and seated at the piano she sang with her friend, "O for a faith that will not shrink," etc. In two days she was in Heaven. No funeral in Edgartown ever gathered so large and so afflicted a congregation, and the choir which had been associated with her for years were overwhelmed with grief as they attempted to sing the hymn she sang just before her death on going to the hospital. One day at i o'clock I was requested to visit a man who was in great agony. I found him on his knees, with his finger in the Bible at a chapter of Isaiah. He had been in that position from 7 to I o'clock a picture of despair. On being asked to rise he replied: "Never! I will never rise till God converts my soul." In a few mo- ments he sprang to his feet, seized his hat and hurrying down the street entered every house and told what God had done for him. His wife was very angry and would not speak to him. But just a week later to an hour I was called to see her, and she passed through the same experience as her husband, and visited every house and related her wonderful experience. One of our retired sea captains had opened a place of entertain- ment for young men which was well patronized. One night he waited for them, but no one came. He stated that a voice seemed to say to him, "Put out your lights and go and seek the Savior." He obeyed, and midway he turned back, with the thought that he had done a foolish thing. Three times this was repeated, till the lights were extinguished for the last time. He then hastened to the church and immediately went to the altar and sought mercy. Thus the work went on till all Edgartown seemed to have obeyed the heavenly call. SOUVENIR HISTORY. XLI Most of the people and converts of those one hundred nights have passed away. Edgar Baylies, one of the noblest, still lives in the West. He was a model class leader. Three years ago, at a great age, he made his final visit to Edgartown and the Vineyard Camp Ground, and rehearsed the experiences of those days as the most remarkable of his long life. Almost yearly I live over the scene at the graves of the workers and converts of that far off time in the Edgartown Cemetery, where they wait the Resurrection. Jeremiah Pease, Jr., was First Lieutenant in that wonderful campaign, and I tarry there a moment to drop a tear upon his grave. "And what shall I say more, for the time would fail me to tell of Gideon and Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthah, of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets who through faith subdued king- doms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, and out of weakness were made strong." REV. T. J. EVERETT. Presiding Elder New Bedford District. Thomas J. Everett was born in Polk Co., Iowa, May 30, 1854. His parents were fanners and Methodists. The first of these facts contributed to his health of body, for in his youth he lived in the country. The second fact contributed to his health of soul, for he was reared in a home of piety and prayer. At the age of sixteen he entered Simpson College, Indianola, Iowa, graduating at twenty. He began preaching when nineteen years old and was soon made a Junior preacher on a circuit having nine appointments. In the fall of 1874 he joined the Des M nines Conference, on trial, and was stationed at Central Church, Council Bluffs. At the end of one year he located in order to enter the School of Theology, Boston University. From this institution he graduated, in 1878, the youngest member of a class of twenty seven and having the honor of being one of the commencement speakers. The same sprini he was married to Miss Sue F. Morrison, Daughter of Rev. E. B. Morrison, of the North Ohio Conference. In April he joined the Providence now the New England Southern Conference. Reserved two full-term pastorates in the city of Providerce and has been pa.-U r of several oilier important churches of the Conference. At St. Paul's, Providence, a debt of 2600 was liqudated and an extensive revival occurred. At Hope St., Providence, the vestries were renovated and refurnished; a pipe ora an placed in the auditorium and all indebtedness removed from the church including a debt of $700 on current expenses. At Hazardville, Conn, a large number of young people began the Christian life in the regular services, and the annual missionary collection reached the sum of f looo. In 1895 he was appointed Presiding 'Elder of the New Bedford district which embraces 66 pastoral charges. He was a member of the General Conference of 1896. THE YARMOUTH CAMP-MEETING. By Rev. T. J. Everett. The first camp-meeting on Cape Cod (probably the first in New England) was held in South Wellfleet, August, 1819. "The power of God was displayed among the people and glorious revivals in Provincetown and Eastham followed." Some who attended out of curiosity were arrested by the Holy Spirit and went home deeply convicted. At Eastham, where up to this time no Methodist minister had been allowed to work, such interest was awakened and so many conversions resulted that the Wellfleet pastor was invited to preach and labor among the people. He reported at the next Conference an increase in the membership of his charge of 162, most of whom were Eastham converts. The Eastham church was the result of this awakening. The next year the camp-meeting was again held with like results. Wilbur Fiske was present at this meeting and after earnest seeking was "filled with the Spirit." Rev. B. R. Hoyt wrote thus of the meet- ing a few days after its close: "Immediately after the tents were erected, the work began and continued to increase till the meeting closed. On the second day a solid flame of divine love seemed to run through the encampment. The number of converts on this occasion could not be ascertained." The camp-meeting was continued in South Wellfleet the next two years. Then it was removed to Bound Brook Island, where it was held from 1823-1825. In 1826 the encampment was at Truro, ''where thousands heard the preached word and dozens knelt to pray." The camp-meeting was next held at Eastham, and annually for more than thirty years this "leafy temple" was the scene of remarkable services. Men of power preached and prayed. Many notable con- versions occurred. Here Father Taylor, Bartholomew Otheman, Thomas Peirce, Abraham Merrill, Lewis Bates, Jefferson Haskell, Frederick Upham and many others proclaimed the Gospel to the mul- titudes. In 1863 the location of the meeting was again changed. Many had come to the Eastham grounds on sailing vessels. The Old Colony Railroad was being built down the Cape and was in operation as far as Yarmouth. The people of Boston and vicinity who had attended the Eastham meeting in large numbers desired a location nearer and easier of access. In 1862 the Sandwich District Stewards' Meeting took the matter into consideration. A meeting was called in the Yarmouth Methodist Episcopal Church on the 22d of December of that year, at which twenty-seven ministers and laymen were present, with Pardon T. 2 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Kenney, Presiding Elder of the District, in the chair. The Sandwich District Camp-Meeting Association was organized for the "purpose of camp and other grove meetings in the town of Yarmouth." The name was afterwards changed to "The Yarmouth Camp- meeting Association." The first officers were: Pardon T. Kenney, President; Thomas Milliard and Rufus T. Thatcher, Vice-Presidents; William H. Richards, Secretary, and Obed Nickerson, Treasurer. From that time the presidents of the association have been the pre- siding elders of the district. D. B. Lovell of Brockton served the association as Treasurer for twenty years, from 1876 to 1896. The original plot of ground for the camp-meeting was purchased at a cost of $600. Fifteen hundred dollars was expended in preparing it for the first meeting, which was held in August, 1863. In 1865 six and one-half acres were added, and about 1870 another addition was purchased, making in all forty acres owned by the association. These grounds have been greatly improved and beautified from time to time. Various buildings have been erected, including the keeper's house and Association building. This latter building contains lodging rooms, post-office, police headquarters, Association Hall, etc. Wells have been put down, supplying the encampment with drinking water of the best quality. A beautiful park has been laid out between the railroad and the encampment. A commodious wooden tabernacle, seating fifteen hundred, was built in 1890 at a cost of about $2,400. Altogether this camp ground is one of the most beautiful and well- appointed in New England. Some notable conversions have occurred upon these grounds and thousands of people continue to attend the services held here annually. The officers of the association at the present time are: President T. J. Everett, New Bedford, Mass. Vice-Presidents W. P. Buck, Provincetown, Mass. G. N. Mansell, Harwich, Mass. Secretary Olin E. Snow, Provincetown, Mass. Treasurer and Agent Isaiah Snow, Truro, Mass. HANOVER SQUARK, YARMOUTH CAMP-GROUND. INTERIOR VIEW YARMOUTH TAliERNACI.E. NEW BEDFORD DISTRICT LEAGUE. By Mrs. R. S. Douglas. In writing the history of such an organization, all must know that much that has made it a power, that has kept it effective, and created the influence that has reached beyond all of our thought already and will continue to be a power through all time, and even into eternity, must be unwritten. So this report will be like a frame- work, giving outlines only, while those who have been workers here will fill in the spaces with pleasant memories of faces, churches, and events. The first idea of this District League had birth in a gathering held in the Memorial M. E. Church, Plymouth, at which Leaguers from several neighboring churches were present. As a result of suggestions made at that meeting, Rev. Walter S. Ela, then P. E., called a meeting of delegates from the various Young People's societies of the district at the Allen Street M. E. Church, New Bed- ford, June nth, 1890. There were present fifty-four delegates, rep- resenting twenty-three leagues, four junior leagues and five Young People's societies, including in all 1,481 members. Here the District League was organized, its constitution formed, and its officers elected. Rev. H. C. Scripps was appointed president. The next convention was held October 2ist, 1891, at Grace Church, Taunton, when one hundred delegates, representing twenty- six leagues, were present. During the year the district lost one of its most interested and faithful workers. Mr. Richard S. Clark of Fall River, the Corresponding Secretary, and one of the first to conceive the idea of the District League, was suddenly called to present his life's report above. It is the only death of an active district officer since the organizing of the League. From these beginnings the district work has been continued. Annual conventions have been held in Allen Street, County Street and Pleasant Street Churches, New Bedford; First and Grace Churches, Taunton; First Church, Fall River, and Memorial Church, Plymouth. Beside these sub-district gatherings have been beneficial to many churches and leagues. The District Presidents have been as follows: Rev. H. C. Scripps, Mr. Robert T. Raymond of New Bedford; Rev. William S. Davis (two years), Rev. B. F. Simon (two years) and Mr. H. L. Johnson of Plymouth. This organization, combining the leagues of the District, each teaching and receiving, from the others, has been a power throughout the District. It has not only been a bond that has joined the several leagues to- gether, but it has united them to much of the connectional work of the denomination. The conventions have been practically helpful, SOUVENIR HISTORY. 5 and have been broad in the work represented by the speakers. Within our boundaries are two Deaconess Homes one, the gift of Mr. John D. Flint, in Fall River, the other in Providence from both of which the Deaconesses go forth to minister to all in need of their sympathy or care, but to the Epworth Leagues do they owe much of the help that enables them to carry on their work. While much loving assistance has been rendered to the Deaconess' Home and Hospital in Boston, in no district in our Conference has the Epworth League Home in Boston had warmer friends. Other foreign and mis- sionary fields have been assisted by its existence, while local missionary work, growth of interest in literary culture, pure social intercourse, and above all the prayer meeting and the interest in sal- vation of those about us, have all received an impetus and power the results of which only eternity can reveal. In 1892 this league issued a booklet called "What We Can Do. A Handbook for Epworth Leagues." The first edition was of 1,500 copies. Its helpfulness was so generally and unexpectedly appre- ciated that in 1893 an edition of 2,000 was published, which was fol- lowed in 1895 by a third edition of 4,000 copies. Each edition was revised and enlarged. Recognizing the unity of work and purpose manifested at Chattanooga by the leagues of Canada and of the M. E. Church, North and South, the committee placed on the cover of the third edition the badges of the different leagues, and in other ways re-adapted the book to the use of these three divisions of leaguers.. It has been sold in over thirty states of our Union, in Canada, Bermuda, and Mexico, and has received universal commendation for its suggestions and practical helpfulness. There are now fifty-three senior leagues, with a membership of 3,25o,-and seventeen junior leagues, with a membership of about 700, in our District. While the first excitement and enthusiasm of league work has passed, all must realize that to-day in the New Bedford District no one organization within the church is more helpful in its power of unifying the interests of the churches of the District, in bringing about a pleasant personal acquaintance amongst the young people, of awaken- ing their desires for helpfulness to all good causes than our New Bed- 4; ford District League. EDUCATORS FORMERLY MEMBERS OF OUR CONFERENCE. DANIEL DORCHESTER. Pres. GEO. E. REED. Pres. B. W. HUTCHINSON. Prof. L. T. TOWNSBND. Ex-Pres. C. H. PAYNE. Prof. SAMUEL F. UPHAM. Pres. F. J. WAGNER. Pres. B. P. RAYMOND. Prof. WILBUR F. STEELE M. E. CHURCH, ACUSHNET, MASS. One of the oldest Methodist churches in the District, and the old- est in Bristol County is that in Acushnet village. Its founders were members of the Congregational Society near by. They were attracted by the earnestness of manner and spiritual zeal of Methodist preachers who preached in this vicinity in at- tics and in great kitchens at the very opening of the century. This soon led them to desire a Meth- odist society, and on the 2d day of Aug. 1807, "The Methodist Church of Fairhaven and New Bedford" was organized. The leading lay- man in this movement was John Hawes, a resident of the place and a master mariner. He was led to a Godly life by a Methodist minister in a little chapel in a narrow lane, London. The minister whom he invited to come here to lead the people up to this organization was Epaphras Kibby, who was the first stationed minister to the society. The original members were John Hawes, Benj. Dillingham, Free- born Nye, Dan'l Summerton, Hannah Summerton, Jedidah Has- kell, Meribah Spooner, Nancy Danforth. When Mr. Kibby closed his labors here in 1809 there were 64 members. Captain Hawes gave the lot for the first meeting-house, where the present one stands. Edward Dillingham, one of the early members, bequeathed his home to the church for a parsonage, which has been oc- cupied by the ministers for many decades, but is just now being replaced by a handsome new parsonage. The present church edifice THE ACUSH NET PARSONAGE. Was dedicated during the pas- This Represents it Unfinished. torate of Richard Donkersly, March 9, 1854. THE ACUSHNET CHURCH. 8 SOUVENIR HISTORY. All the Methodist churches of the southern tier of towns in Bris- tol County were offsprings of this society. The original members of those churches with filial affection called this the "mother church." Epaphras Kibby, to the first members, was the greatest pastor and indeed under his care the church had its greatest growth and proved its right to exist and its ability to bring forth bountiful fruits. No close record is kept of Edward T. Taylor's work ("Father Taylor," afterwards of Boston Bethel), but no doubt even in these, his youthful years, he did a good work for God. REV. H. H. CRITCHLOW. MRS. H. H. CRITCHLOW. J. A. M. Chapman and W. T. Worth, who have since become metropolitan preachers and leaders in the Master's work, each began their pastoral labors here with blessed results. From 1873 to J 8?6 Chas. E. Walker was in charge. Perhaps the greatest ingathering of souls in the church's history was in these years. Many who still toil faithfully in the Lord's vineyard date their Christian life from that time. In October, 1877, C. L. Goodell began his ministerial labors as a supply. His work, as well as that of his successors, has been uni- formly succesful in bringing the community nearer the perfect life. During the pastorate of E. B. Gurney, the audience room was renovated and frescoed, a new pulpit suit was placed in the church and the floor was recarpeted, etc., at an expense of about $600, all of which was provided for before the re-opening. Of those who still abide among us as beloved superannuates, Rev. Samuel Fox, Rev. B. K. Bosworth and Rev. E. A. Lyon are held in grateful remembrance for their efficient and faithful labors. Rev. SOUVENIR HISTORY. N. W. Jordan, so early called to be with God, was loved by all for his sweet ministry of comfort. The pastors of later years who wrought nobly and strengthened as well as extended the walls of Zion, are still waging a good warfare and carrying the banners of Christ on to victory. Among this num- ber is the Compiler and Editor of this Souvenir History. The people of this church remember with grateful hearts the years of successful labor with him, and the prosperity in all lines of church work during his pastorate with them. During the present pastorate, Mr. Lemuel Dillingham and Mrs. JNO. R. THOMPSON, Sunday School Superintendent. WM. A. GURNEY, Bpworth League President. Olive Washburn have been called home at goodly age. Many of the older members are still blessing the world. Mrs. Alice Stacy has been a member seventy-one years. The new parsonage, of which a cut appears, has been looked for- ward to for many days, and now will be an honor to the society. Rev. E. A. Lyon found his present wife here. This church is proud to name among her spiritual children, Rev W. I. Ward, an honored member of our Conference, who> was converted here when only a boy and licensed to preach by recommendation from this church in March, 1875. PASTORS. 1821-22. f Solomon Sias (founder of Zion's Herald) Epaphras Kibby Nehemiah Coye Levi Walker Nehemiah Coye (Located and supplied.) 1817-18. Benj. R. Hoyt T 818-20. Shipley W. Wilson 1806-08. 1809. 1810. 1812-16. 1823. Edward T. Taylor (Father Taylor) 1824. Erastus Otis 1825. Leonard Bennett 1826. LaRov Sunderland 10 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1827. 1828. 1829. 1830. Leonard B. Griffin Robert Easterbrooks Elias C. Scott Jas. Porter 1846. Dairl Webb 1847. Randall Mitchell 1848 49. Geo. W. Wooding 1850. Jas. B. Weeks 1851. Nathan Paine 1852-53. Richard Donkersly 1854. J. A. M. Chapman 1855. E. Franklin Hinks 1856. Philip Crandon 1857. A. Latham 1858-59. B. L. Sayer 1 860-6 1. W. T. Worth 1862-63. Samuel Fox 1864 Israel Washburn Died during year. 1864. Thos. Ely 1865-66. E. H. Hatfield 1867-68. Geo. W. Wooding 1869. B. K. Bosworth 1870-72. E. A. Lyon l8 73-75- Chas. E. Walker 1876. E. H. Hatfield 1877 Jos. E. Sears Resigned during year. 1877-79. C- L. Goodell 1 880-8 1. Geo. M. Hamlen 1882. N. W. Jordan 1883-85. Edward Williams 1886-87. Chas. S. Davis 1888 F. A. Crafts Died during year. 1888-89. R- M - Wilkins 1890-92. E. B. Gurney 1893-94. Rennetts C. Miller 1895. O. A. Farley 1896 H. H. Critchlow HON. FRANKLYN HOWLAND. 1831. Sam'l Drake 1832. William Baxter 1833. O. Sperry 1834-35. Thomas Ely 1836. * D. H. Bannister 1837. Franklin Fisk 1838. Onesiphorus Robbins 1839-40. Lemuel Harlow A local supply. 1841. Otis Wilder 1842-43. Jos. Macreading 1844. Geo. Winchester 1845. William Cone 1846 Hebron Vincent Remained but a few weeks. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees J. R. Allen, Rev. E. A. Lyon, M. S. Douglass, G. M. Nichols, Jno. A. Russell, G. B. Borden, Mrs. Franklyn Rowland, W. A. Gurney. Stewards J. R. Allen, G. M. Nichols, M. S. Douglass, Chas. Trull, J. R. Thompson, Jr., G. B. Borden, Mrs. G. B. Borden, Mrs. Pamelia Allen, Alexander Houston, Mrs. Lydia Jenney, Mrs. E. A. Lyon, Franklyn Howland, Caroline S. Cushman (R. S.). Epworth League President, W. A. Gurney; First Vice-President, Jennie Gardner; Second Vice-President, Mrs. Job Haskins; Third Vice-President, Mrs. Emma H. Howland; Fourth Vice-President, Emma Poulson; Sec., Lizzie Andrews; Treas., Alberta Darling. Sunday School Superintendent, Jno. R. Thompson, Jr.; Assist- ant Superintendent, W. A. Gurney; Secretary, Thos. O. Hathaway; Librarian, May Hathaway. M. E. CHURCH, BARNSTABLE, MASS. By Miss Ellen F. Crocker. This old church was organized very early in the present century, probably in 1813, by Rev. Aaron Lummis. The house of worship was built upon the town's land at the western limit of the old East Parish, upon a hill, opposite the farmhouse of William Crocker. It was the only Methodist church in that vicinity, and people came from the adjoining villages of West Barnstable, Cotuit, Marston's Mills, Centreville, Hyannis and Barnstable town. In those days people were in the habit of going to church; in- deed, the male population, was liable to a fine if they did not attend church twice during the tyear, consequently the pews : -"-'- - -iJi jfl were usually filled. As more j people attended from Barn- stable town than the other vil- lages it was finally deemed ad- visable to move the church. In 1837 Loring Crocker, William Crocker, Elijah Lor- ing, and John Bassett of Barn- stable and Joseph Holway of Sandwich, Trustees of the Methodist Episcopal Society, purchased of Lot and Rebecca Hinckley a piece of land eighty-four feet square about a mile east of its first site, and the old church was sawn in halves and removed to its present location. Here the society continued to flourish until about 1850, when a religious excitement broke out among the members, which ran into fanaticism. Shoutings and "religious exercises" were common in the church and some would pray, sing and shout in the streets or wherever they happened to be. One woman proclaimed herself the Messiah, and claimed the power of conferring the Holy Ghost. Finally, some were arrested for disturbing the peace, and two lodged in jail, but were soon bailed out, and a trial was held in a large barn, as the Court House was being built, but not finished. This put an end to the disturbances, but it was a blow from which the church never re- covered. A little later, when the wave of modern Spiritualism came THE BARNSTABLE CHURCH. 12 SOUVENIR HISTORY. this way, those who had come out from the church embraced that doctrine and the church was again weakened. The records of the church previous to about 1870 have been lost; since then this church has been incorporated with the Yarmouthport Society, one pastor doing the work for the two societies until the Yarmouthport Society died out, about 1880. After that the Barn- stable Society struggled along alone, and uniting a part of the time with the society at Centreville. Then, as the years went on, the fathers and mothers in Israel sought the Promised Land,, and there were none to fill their places; thus the life of the church gradually went out. Many preachers and lecturers have said that they found nowhere more intelligent or appreciative audiences than upon Cape Cod. After other churches were established at Marston's Mills, Osterville and Centreville, the pastorate at Barnstable still covered a large territory. But yet it reduced the Barnstable parish. Barnstable was once an important seaport with large fishing interests. But things have changed here, as in other places on Cape Cod. As the place has no large business or manufacturing interests its young people have gradually drifted to the cities, and the church suffered accordingly. Many of the brightest and most intelligent business and professional men have gone from Barnstable to the cities. It has been this fact of a loss of the young people here that has made the work of the church so discouraging during the past twenty-five years and caused it to be closed in 1894. How strong or far reaching its influence has been no one can tell until the deeds of men shall be made known. PASTORS. 1818-19. Benjamin Hazleton 1831-32. 1820 Isaac Jennison 1821 E. T. Taylor and 1833 Thomas Smith 1834 1823 Lewis Bates and Geo Weeks 1835 1824 Lewis Bates and J. M. Maffet 1836. 1825 Hezekiah Thatcher 1826 H. Thatcher and Chas. 1837 G. Chase 1838 1827 Enoch Bradley 1839 1828 Warren Wilbur 1840 1829 H. Bronson and S. 1841 Heath 1830 H. Bronson and C. 1842-43. Noble 1843 F. Upham and J. B. Brown A. Holway W. Ramsdell and B. M. Walker J. Steele and L. K. Bannister J. Steele and H. H. Smith E. Otis Josiah Litch Henry H. Smith Eliphlet Jackson J. W. Chase and W. S. Campbell George W. Stearns G. H. Winchester SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1844 D. Stebbins 1871 1845 E - A - Lyon 1873-74. 1846 Wm. Richards 1875-78. 1847 Henry Mayo 1848 James M. Worcester 1879-80. 1849-50. G. W. Stearns 1881-82. 1851-52. Edward B. Hinckley 1883-85. 1853-54. James B. Weeks 1886 !855 Joseph Marsh 1887 1856-61. Daniel Webb 1862-66. Seth B. Chase 1888 1867 Caleb S. Sanford 1889 1868 S. Y. Wallace 1890 1869 S. W. Coggeshall (six 1891 months) 1892 1869-71. N. B. Fisk (six mos.) 1893 V. W. Mattoon Silas Sprowls Students from Boston University T. B. Gurney C. F. Sharpe Philo Hawks H. N. Donnell Students from Boston University E. F. Newell George Bernreuter R. S. Moore J. F. Prior R. C. Miller J. S. Meracle M. E. CHURCH, BRIDGEWATER, MASS. The origin of the First M. E. Church of Bridgewater, Mass., is an illustration of the living power and divine principle of growth which inheres in the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ and which has marked the progress of His Kingdom from the beginning to the pres- ent time. Like the use and spread of that world-wide polity of which it forms a part, this church owes its birth to the in- spiration and zeal enkindled by a genuine conversion. While visiting at Raynham, Mass., Miss Abbie F. Lawrence, now Mrs. F. C. Gammons, was converted in a revival meeting conducted by Rev. W. F. Steele. She immediately returned to her home in Bridgewater filled with a desire to have Methodist meetings started there, and on Tuesday, April 14, 1874, she began to solicit subscriptions for that purpose. Going from house to house telling the story of her conversion and receiving the pledges of the people for the amounts they were willing to con- tribute, she obtained the sum of four hundred and eighty-one dollars. THE BREDGEWATER CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. REV. R. C. GROSE, Pastor. Having now secured a basis for the support of preaching, the people at once proceeded to engage a "supply." The first pastor was Rev. George H. Baker, a student in the School of Theology of Boston University. He came to Bridgewater on Saturday, May 2, 1874. In the meantime the old Swedenborgian church had been rented, and in that place, at half past ten A. M., on Sun- day, May 3d, he preached his first ser- mon from the words found in John xii, 21 : "We would see Jesus." It was found that there were a num- ber of persons interested in the move- ment who held church letters from places whence they had removed to Bridgewater, but who, in the absence of Methodist services, had attended the services of other churches. These were now formed into a "class" and the so- ciety or church was duly constituted. The pastor led the class for the first few months, but in February of the year 1875, Ferdinand C. Gam- mons was appointed to that office. Three of the original members, F. C. Gammons, Mrs. Abbie Lawrence Gammons (nee Abbie F. Lawrence), and Mahala C. Harriman, still remain earnest workers in the church. Under the earnest and abundant labors of Rev. G. H. Baker, a Sunday School was organized and the society passed the first months of its life with the hopefulness and glow of youthful enthusiasm. During the succeeding years the work of the church has been carried on with varying success. Quite a large number of names has been added to the membership, but death and removals have kept the list comparatively small. During the pastorate of George W. Coon, the Swedenborgian church was purchased by the society for the sum of $900, and the deed was received May 12, 1879. A board of trustees was elected and organized as a corporation June 12, 1879. In March, 1890, Mrs. Cordelia B. Jones, an honored member of the church, died, leaving by her last will $2,000 to the trustees of our Conference to be held in trust for the benefit of this church, the interest thereon to be paid annually to the trustees. The entire amount has been invested here and a parsonage property and a commodious double house, each con- taining ten large rooms, are the results. Hence the church of this SOUVENIR HISTORY. place has practically the use of both principal and interest as long as it shall continue to exist, and Mrs. Jones will ever be held in grateful remembrance for her generous liberality. In 1880 extensive repairs were made on the church building amounting to $600, Rev. W. F. Farrington, the pastor at the time, doing much toward accomplishing the desired end. In 1894 under the successful pas- torate of Rev. Luther E. Lovejoy the church building was com- pletely remodeled at a cost of over $1,600, making it a beautiful and serviceable place of worship. It is very apparent that the church has made substantial and permanent growth. Its hold upon the town has been constantly increasing and in the near future it is hoped and expected that this will be one of the strong appointments of the Conference. THE BRIDGEWATER PARSONAGE. PASTORS. 1874. George H. Baker 1886. J. A. Rood 1875. J. R. Wood 1887. G. E. Dunbar 1875. W. G. Wilson 1888. R. J. Kellogg 1876-77. T. J. Everett 1889. J. N. Geisler 1878. C. H. Morgan 1890. G. Bernreuter 1879. G. W. Coon 1891. R. E. Smith 1879-80. W. F. Farrington 1892-94. L. E. Lovejoy 1881-82. T- B. Hingeley 1895. T- F. Porter 1883. W. A. Wright 1896 R. C. Grose 1884-85. E. S. Fletcher Sunday School A. F. Sprague, Superintendent; Herman Gam- mons, Secretary and Treasurer. Epworth League Professor A. Osuna, President; Agnes Deering, Secretary. M. E. CHURCH, BRYANTVILLE, MASS. On January 7, 1825, the Rev. B. Otheman, then stationed at the Duxbury M. E. Church, was invited to preach in this vicinity. Much interest and seriousness being apparent among the people, Mr. Otheman engaged Rev. Robert Gould, a local preacher, to go to Pem- THE BRYANTVILLE CHURCH. broke. This brought the formation of a Methodist class about February 9, 1825, and the stationing in this place of Rev. William R. Stone, under the direction of the presiding elder. In 1826, the church appears in the Conference minutes by the name of Pembroke. The labors of the Rev. William Ramsdell were much blessed, and though the church was kept in an unsettled state through many of the pastors leaving after but a short stay, it enjoyed much prosperity and frequently extensive revivals occurred. During the years 1840-44 the church suffered much through local dissatisfaction on account of the Episcopacy of the Church and the meeting-house was closed from regular preaching services. But on petitioning the Conference for a minister the name of Pembroke again appeared on the minutes of the Conference and thus the work went on. In the years 1857-58, under the leadership of G. S. Alexander, quite an extensive revival took place. During the years 1862- 63 a member of the East Maine Conference, Rev. J. A. THE BRYANTVILLE PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 17 Steele, became pastor. This was a trying time for the church, as a few of the most earnest workers passed to that bourne from which no traveler returns, and others filled with patriotism enlisted in the army to fight for their country. Again the church suffered because of no pastor being duly ap- pointed by Conference, though there was preaching occasionally. After a short period the Conference again took up the charge and interest on all lines of Christian work was resumed with Charles N. Hinckley as pastor, and thus the work went on under the various REV. J. O. RUTTER, Pastor. MRS. J. O. RUTTER. pastors, sometimes with an increased revival interest, sometimes at very low ebb, but always with a faithful pious few standing firm, and true. The society has been known for some years back as the Bryant- ville M. E. Church and is pleasantly situated in the town of Pembroke, Plymouth County. Some years ago a pleasant parsonage, with adjacent grounds, was left to the society by Mr. Damon, deceased. About four years ago an Epworth League was organized by Rev. R. E. Smith, and is in fair working order. There is also a Ladies' Aid Society in connection with the church. During the past year the society underwent a severe trial through the death of their beloved pastor, Rev. C. P. Flanders, February, 1897, during the third year of his pastorate. During the past year the parsonage has been almost remodeled and thoroughly renovated. The society now enjoys a very pleasant place for worship. Many of the pastors have enjoyed blessed revivals. i8 SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1826-28. W. R. Stone. 1829 A. Loomis and A. Joselyn. 1830-31. William Ramsdell. 1832 J. Barnes and B. King HERMAN BEAL. Epworth League President. 1833 I834-35- 1841-42. 1845 1846 1847 1848 J. Bailey E. C. Scott. D. Stebbins. Lewis Bates J. French J. D. King J. French 1849 1850-51. 1852. 1853 1854 1856-57- 1858 1859 1 860-6 1. 1862-63. 1864-66. 1867 1868-69. 1870 1871-72. 1873 1874 1875-76. 1877 1878-79. 1 880-8 1. 1882 1883 1883-84. 1885-86. 1887-88. 1889 1890 1891. 1892-93. 1894-96. 1897- A Adams J. C. Fifield G. H. Winchester E. Blake J. B. Washburn G. S. Alexander J. B. Weeks Josiah Biggins N. P. Selee J. A. Steele C. N. Hinckley Franklin Sears E. S. Fletcher Philip Crandon W. F. Farrington J. W. Malcolm W. B. Heath N. W. Chase J. E. Corley j. B. Washburn W. I. Ward S. F. Harriman A. L. Hoyt J. F. Cooper V. W. Mattoon J. S. Thomas F. H. Ellis F. D. Sargent F. D. Fisher R. E. Smith C. P. Flanders J. O. Rutter PRESENT OFFICIARY. OFFICERS. Trustees S. T. Niles, H. H. Foster, H. W. Foster, John Foster, Herman Beal, Dr. O. W. Charles, E. T. Clark. Stewards S. T. Niles, Mrs. E. A. Perry, Herman Beal, Deborah S. Howard, Julia S. Howard, Lawrence Reed, Deborah Joslyn, Luther Shurtleff, H. B. MacLaughlin, Maria Howland, Sunday School Rev. J. O. Rutter, Superintendent; Mrs. Helen Beal, Assistant Superintendent; Herman Beal, Secretary and Treas- urer; George E. Clark, Librarian; Abbie Gorham, Assistant Librarian. Teachers G. Kilbreth. Mrs. P. S. Damon, Mrs. Annie Rutter, L. W. Reed, Mrs. Helen Beal, Mrs. M. A. Clark. District Steward S. T. Niles. Class Leader S. T. Niles. Epworth League Herman Beal, President; Lawrence Reed, First Vice-President; Mrs. H. Pratt, Second Vice-President; Mrs. H. Beale, Secretary and Treasurer. M. E. CHURCH, BOURNE, MASS. The history of this village reaches far into the past. As early as 1622 this place was visited by Gov. Bradford, and five years later, when it was known as Monument (a corruption of the Indian name Manomet), a trading-house was built by the people of Plymouth be- THE BOURNE CHURCH. side the river which flows back of the church. The location was so favorable for its intended uses that much business was done with the Indians, and more especially with the people of New Amsterdam. Pos- sibly because of these early relations, and partly because this stands as the gateway of Cape Cod, Jesse Lee preached here (1791) a little more than two years after his first sermon in New England. His mes- sage was gladly received by some steadfast persons, and, three years later, when Joshua Hall was appointed to Cape Cod and stationed in this town, a class of thirteen members was formed whose descendants in large part constitute the church of the present day. But it was a time of most intense opposition. The modern sym- pathy between Christians of dif- ferent denominations was not yet in vogue; the established church was strong and pos- sessed of all the prestige which comes from vested rights and an undoubted social standing. Theologically and in other re- spects a Methodist minister was an Ishmaelite, and to ostracize him and his followers consti- tuted an unquestioned proof of piety. So it came about that the first class-leader, John THE BOU RNE PARSONAGE. 2O SOUVENIR HISTORY. Perry, had his cow sold at auction to pay the parish tax, and many others suffered scarcely less. But Methodism slowly won its Avay and, since the obstructionists were good people, they finally ceased to persecute. This process continued, and, some years since, when the parish church had been struck by lightning and burned it was felt that our society met so well the spiritual demand that the Con- gregationalists decided to leave the field to their former rivals and, in a most fraternal spirit, help them to cultivate it. The first church was erected in 1831, and will ever be a monument REV. R. E. SCHUH. MRS. R. E. SCHUH. to Capt. Ellis M. Swift. At a time when but $20 was subscribed, he bought the lumber and shipped it from Maine in his own vessel; he hired the workmen and paid all bills and trusted to the future for re- imbursement. The bulding was repaired in 1844 and 1845, an d en- larged in 1883 at a cost of $2500. In 1891, during the pastorate of C. S. Davis, a commodious sum- mer chapel, costing $3300, was built at Monument Beach, in the south neighborhood. In its long history this society has owned but two parsonages. The first fell into decay and was sold. A syndicate then bought a house and leased it to the pastor at a low figure. As this arrangement did not prove satisfactory, in 1869 the present parsonage was purchased, and by numerous additions and improvements has been made a very roomy and comfortable home. There have been revivals at various times. Altogether the church lias shown a remarkable vitality, and the centennial celebration, in October, 1894, called attention anew to God's kindly leading. Of self- sacrificing men and women there have been many whose names it 'would be a pleasure to recall. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 21 PASTORS. The list of pastors is a long and in many respects a notable one. 1794. 1795-96. 1798. 1799. 1 800-0 1. 1802-03. Joshua Hall Joseph, Snelling Epaphras Kibby Daniel Webb Reuben Jones Joshua Soule wards Bishop) David Bachelor 1804. 1805. 1806. and 1807. (after- 1808. Joshua Snelling Moses Currier Erastus Otis and Na- thaniel Elder Thomas Asbury Joseph Snelling and Joseph Merrill This was Joseph Snelling's third pastoral term here; probably be- cause he had married his wife from this place. ABRAM F. SWIFT, Sunday School Superintendent. 1809. Joseph Snelling and Benjamin Lombard 1810. Stephen Baley 1811-12. Aaron Lummis 1813. Stephen Baley 1814. William Frost and Thomas Pierce 1815. John W. Handy and Richard Emory 1816. Moses Fifield 1817-19. Benjamin Hezelton 1820. Edward T. Tavlor C. H. PHINNEY, Epworth League President. 1821. Edward T. Taylor and Benjamin Brown 1822. Frederick Upham 1823. Aaron D. Sargent 1824. Jonathan May hew 1825. Erastus Otis and John Hutchinson 1826-27. Frederick Upham 1828. Enoch Bradley and Na- than Spaulding 1829-30. Frederick Upham Stationed here the third time, perhaps because he had married "his wife here. The Rev. S. F. Upham was not born here, but was brought here when a small child, and his mother's home is still 'standing. 22 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1831-32. Joel Steele, Lewis Jan- 1844. son, Joseph Marsh 1845. and C. C. Noble 1846-47. J 833- J- J- Bliss and Josiah 1848. Litch 1849-50. 1834. Joseph Barstow 1851. 1852. 1853- 1854. &, 1855- 1856-58. 1859. 1 860-6 1. 1862-63. 1864. 1865-66. 1867-69. 1870-71. 1872-74. 1875-76. 1877. 1878-79. 1880-82. 1883-85. 1886-88. 1889-90. 1891-92. I893-95- 1896 MRS. V. MORRISON. 1835-6. 1837. 1838. I8 39 . 1840-41. 1842. 1843- Philip Crandon (also serving as village schoolmaster) Abraham Holway Joseph Brown N. Mayo Joseph Marsh Nathan Paine Anthony Palmer G. W. Brewster Heman Perry N. Goodrich William H. Richards D. H. Swinerton Joseph Macreading S. Stebbings John B. Hunt. E. B. Hinckley E. S. Stanley for a few months, then Lemuel Harlow Franklin Sears J. B. Washburn George H. Winchester Asa U. Swinerton. He died during the year, and his term by vari- ous supplies. G. A. Silversteine John B. Husted Philo Hawkes C. N. Hinckley E. S. Fletcher J. H. Humphrey E. J. Ayres A. L. Dearing C. N. Hinckley R. Burn J. G. Gammons J. Q. Adams C. S. Davis N. C. Alger R. E. Schuh PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees A. R. Eldridge, President; E. H. Tobey, A. F. Swift, J. L. Bourne, P. F. Butler, C. H. Phinney, O. R. Swift, M. C. Water- house. Stewards E. H. Tobey (R. S.), A. F. Swift, J. L. Bourne, P. F. Butler, C. H. Phinney, H. E. Perry, William E. Perry, Reuben Bur- gess, William A. Gidley, Clarence Whipple, John B. Phinney, W. W. Phinney, H. C. Phinney. Epworth League President, C. H. Phinney; First Vice- President, J. L. Bourne; Second Vice-President, Mrs. C. H. Phinney; Secretary- Treasurer, Miss Alice Bourne. M. E. CHURCH, BERKELEY, MASS. By E. H. Allen. The Trinitarian Congregational Society in Berkeley was organ- ized March i, 1848. Rev. L. R. Eastman, their first pastor, com- menced service the first Sabbath in April, 1848, and left the last Sabbath in March, 1856. Rev. James A. Roberts commenced his pastorate the first Sabbath in April, 1856, and left off the last Sabbath in September, 1872, to "rest," as he said; and died the following Novem- ber in his eighty-fourth year. Rev. G. W. Wright was employed as a supply and commenced the first Sabbath in October, 1872, and continued until March 5, 1873, at which time the First Methodist Episcopal Church in Berkeley was organized. In 1875 a very pleasant and commodious building was erected at an expense of $7,500 for the First Methodist Church in Berkeley. The following is quoted from the first records: "The following named persons constitute the official board of the First Methodist- Episcopal church in the town of Berkeley, organized on Wednesday, March 5, 1873, at the now Methodist-Episcopal chapel in the afore- said Berkeley, viz., A. B. Crane, William Babbitt, P. F. Fletcher, Isaac Seymour, Barnard Norcutt, S. H. Cudworth, Henry W. Clark, Benjamin Luther, F. H. Coombs, R. B. Eaton, B. F. Cheney and D. S- Briggs. Stewards A. B. Crane, Philip H. Fletcher, D. S. Briggs, Benjamin Luther, William Babbitt, Benjamin F. Cheney, R. B. Eaton, F. H. Coombs, Isaac Seymour (R. S.), A. B. Crane, (D. S.), D. S. Briggs- Trustees Albert French, William Babbitt, Henry Clark, D. S. Briggs, William Boyce, A. B. Crane, W. D. Nichols, Barnard Norcutt, Samuel Cudworth." THE BERKELEY CHURCH. 1873. G. W. Wright 1874-76. C. H. Ewer 1877. C. S. Nutter 1878-79. J. H. Humphrey 1880-82. Richard Burn 188^-85. A. N. Bodfish 1886-87. E - S- Fletcher PASTORS. 1888-90. 1891. 1892-93. 1894. 1895. 1896. 1897. E. A. Lyon J. W. Willett W. R. Ridington E. M. Hill B. McCarty E. B. Gurney Richard Knowles 24 SOUVENIR HISTORY. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees E. H. Allen, James Macomber, William Caswell, David Hoxie, George Harmon, Cassius Viall. Stewards E. H. Allen (R. S.), Angeline Bassett, Abbie Caswell, Lydia Macomber, Martha Wellman, Mary Richmond, M. E. West- gate, Mary Eaton, Lizzie A. Hoxie, Angenora M. Bowen, James Maguire, Mary Corey. E. H. ALLEN, Sunday School Superintendent. MRS. LIZZIE HOXIE. Epworth League President. Sunday School E. H. Allen, Superintendent; Teachers, Abbie Caswell, William Caswell, Angeline Bassett, Emma P. Bassett, Mary L. Corey. Epworth League President, Mrs. Lizzie Hoxie; First Vice- President, Miss Olivia Hatch; Second Vice-President, Miss Frances Conant; Third Vice-President, Mrs. Bertha Cummings; Secretary and Treasurer, Miss Edna M. Hoxie. M. E. CHURCH, CATAUMET AND POCASSET, MASS. This double charge formerly bore the latter name. In the auto- biography of Rev. Joseph Snelling, that pioneer Methodist preacher of "the Cape," who, in company with Jesse Lee and other itinerants, faithfully and successfully sowed Methodist seed among the sand dunes THE CATAUMET CHURCH AND PARSONAGE. of Cape Cod, from Provincetown to Wood's Hole, and across on the islands of the seas, occurs this paragraph : "I now left the traveling connection, and resided in Pocasset, the second parish in Sandwich. The people in Pocasset desiring me to be their preacher, I consented, and continued four or five years. We had a good meeting-house, and a large and steady congregation." Mr. Snelling resided in this neighborhood about 1808-13. He was a native of Boston, a man of great affability of manners and kindness of heart, an able and earnest preacher, commanding the love and respect of all. In the course of his ministry there were extraordinary revivals, often accompanied by remarkable displays of divine power, persons being greatly wrought upon physically. The church was greatly strengthened during his administration, the society being organized and the ordinances regularly administered. The reason assigned by Mr. Snelling for leaving Pocasset is given in his own words : "I resided in Sandwich till after the commencement of the last war (1812). Suffering some privations and inconveniences, usually attendant upon war, I thought it best to remove from there as soon as opportunity offered. I lived on the sea-board, and my house was near the shore. The English vessels sometimes anchored in Buzzard's Bay, a short distance from my house. In some places they came 26 SOUVENIR HISTORY. ashore in their barges, and made their depredations, being quite an annoyance to the inhabitants. Our friends in Pocasset were very unwilling that I should leave them, and it was a great trial to me ; but, after considering the matter, I concluded it was my duty to go. We had always lived in harmony and good feeling towards each other, and we found it hard parting." The house which Mr. Sn-elling occu- pied is still in the village, though removed about half a mile south of its first location. It is now owned and occupied by Mr. George A. Swift, one of the official members of the church. An ancient tomb- REV. W. D. WOODWARD. MRS. W. D. WOODWARD. stone in the cemetery opposite the church marks the resting-place of his first wife, "Hannah Snelling, consort of Rev. Joseph Snelling, who departed this life June 13, 1812, aged 34." From 1815 to 1822 Pocasset was supplied by such itinerants as Frederick Upham, Erastus Otis, Levi Nye, etv From 1822 to about 1830 the church was under the rule of the Reformed Methodists. But about 1830 Father Snelling, who had joined the Methodist Protestant Church, came to a camp-meeting held in South Pocasset, and per- suaded nearly all of the Reformed Societies to become churches of the Methodist Protestant body. About the year 1835 the first Meth- odist Protestant Church in Sandwich was organized in Pocasset, with about 40 members. This form of government lasted until 1866. About 1839 the meeting-house was moved partially around, a new front with tower and belfry was added, and the old-fashioned box pews gave place to those of more modern style. About $1650 was thus expended. It was during the year 1854 that the present small parsonage was moved up from Barlow Landing, and placed opposite the church. This house, with the addition of a small kitchen, has SOUVENIR HISTORY. 27 served as the home of many preachers for over forty years, and at the present time efforts are being made to build a larger and more con- venient residence. In 1866 Rev. Lorenzo D. Johnson, a former pas- tor, came to Pocasset, and having joined the Methodist Episcopal Church, persuaded the society to again unite with that branch of Methodism under whose auspices it had had its birth. Accordingly in August, 1866, under the presiding eldership of Rev. Thomas Ely, a reorganization was effected. Mr. Johnson died in January, 1867, and was buried in the church cemetery. For the greater portion of this history we are indebted to a full record written by the late Ebenezer Nye, father of David D. Nye, who is a prominent member of the church, and also of the Board of Select- men of the town of Bourne, since its setting off from Sandwich in 1884. During the pastorate of Rev. E. B. Gurney, the church was moved out of its location, within the cemetery enclosure, across the street. A vestry was placed beneath, new stained-glass windows and new seats were added. The church was painted and shingled, and altogether remodeled at an expense of about $5,000, most of which is paid. It is now one of the finest church buildings of its size in the Conference. Captain Henry Clement is janitor. Up to this vear Mr. David D. Nye had been the faithful and efficient Recording Steward for a period of thirty years. D. D. NYE, President Board of Trustees. PASTORS. 1808-13. 1866-67. 1867-70. 1870-71. 1871-72. 1872-73. 1873-74- 1874-76. 1876-79. 1879-81. 1 88 1 -88. 1888-89. 1889-91. 1891-92. 1892-94. 1894-96. 1896-97. 1897 - Joseph Snelling Lorenzo D. Johnson Joseph Marsh H. B. Cady Franklyn Sears Charles W. Ryder Henry F. A. Patterson S. W. Coggeshall D. M. Rogers Edward Williams Samuel Fox L. M. Flocken J. H. Buckey William Kirkby B. K. Bosworth F. F,. Gurney T. F. Duxburv W. D. Woodward PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees D. D. Nye, Anthony Little, Levi Phinney, George A. Swift, Charles Edwin Swift. 28 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Stewards David D. Nye (D. S.), Frank K. Irwin (R. S.), A. Little, Aaron L. Burgess, George A. Swift, Charles E. Swift, Levi L. Phinney, Emma D. Handy, Elizabeth B. Nye, Esther F. Nye. Parsonage Committee E. B. Nye, E. F. Nye, Emma D. Handy , L. B. Handy, Mary E. Little, T. C. Swift. Sunday School Superintendent, F. K. Irwin. Junior League President, Mrs. W. D. Woodward. POCASSET PEOPLE'S CHURCH. This building was erected about four years ago, at a cost of $1,400, all paid for. It is a very neat church, and well sustained by a heroic few. Services are held Sabbath afternoons and one evening a week. This church is about two miles from the Cataumet house of POCASSET PEOPLE'S CHURCH. worship. Mr. P. Henry Phinney is Sunday-School Superintendent. Teachers are William B. Blackwell, Miss Kate Dockray, Mrs. McAl- lister, Mrs. Perry. Mr. Thomas Adams is janitor. There is no reg- ular church organization here, but the pulpit is supplied by the Catau- met pastor. The seats in both churches are free. M. E. CHURCH, CHATHAM, MASS. Methodism was first planted in Chatham about one hundred years ago. In harmony with the genius of Methodism, Rev. Joseph Snelling, stationed at Provincetown, in his journeys as an itinerant, found his way to the people of Chatham in 1799. The following is from his jour- nal: "I preached in Province- town, Truro, Wellfleet, Harwich and Chatham. At that time there was but o>ne other Methodist preacher stationed on the Cape." From the beginning the town was not without an occasional visit from a Methodist itinerant. From 1807 to 1816 Chatham seems to have formed a part of the Harwich circuit. In the records of Harwich circuit, Chatham is credited in the year 1807 with a collection of $4.90, thus indicating it as part of the circuit. The first class, consisting of twelve persons, was formed October, 1816. The first meeting-house was built in 1819. In the records is found this statement: "They did not wait for any formal dedication, but as soon as it was raised and inclosed, they occupied it for the worship of Almighty God. Wonderful and glorious were the manifestations of God's power and grace in that old house." This was replaced by a second edifice in 1833. The dedicatory sermon was preached by Rev. Louis Jansen, from the text: "The glory o REV. J. HOLLINGSHEAD. persecution. It was as fierce as in the earliest days of Methodism. Recourse was had to law and mob violence on the part of opposers, but they were foiled in their efforts. In 1811 a site was secured, and a Union Meeting-house was built. But in 1821 the brethren sold their interest in it, and built one for themselves. This in 1827 was sold to the brethren in Chil- mark, and was taken to pieces and removed thither. Another was erected, which is now the Town Hall. The present large edifice was completed and dedicated in 1843, an d m l &93 its semi-centennial was fittingly cele- brated. When the whaling business was good, this seaport town was prosper- ous. The church was in a correspond- ingly flourishing condition, being one of the strongest in the Conference. The congregation was large. Our ablest men filled the pulpit, and intellectual and devout men and women filled the pews. The services were spiritual, and front time to time the church was visited with gracious revivals of religion. The pastor was sustained by an active and strong force of workers: stalwart Christians, whose thoughts and words had weight. Among the pastorates especially noted for revivals were those of J. B. Gould, L. D. Davis and J. D. King. But the most famous revival in the history of the church was that which occurred in J. B. Gould's pastor- ate, in 1852-53, which continued for one hundred nights and swept over the island in Pentecostal power. See account of this revival in special article by the venerable J. B. Gould in another place in this volume. In the community the church has been a power for good, and has sent out blessed influences over the island. Strange to say, the church never owned a parsonage. This has been its latest acquisition. In June, 1896, a good, convenient, and commodious house, on the water-front, was purchased for a parsonage. It was bought for a reasonable price, and the price was paid before the next session of the Conference, except $150. The society has now a good church in which to worship, and a pleasant home for its pastor. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1809-10. 1811 1812 1813 1814 1815 1816 1817 1818 1819-20. 1821-22. 1823 1824 1825 1826 1827 1828-29. 1830-31. 1832 1833 1834 1835-36- 1837-38. 1839-40. 1841 1842-43. 1844-45. PASTORS. Erastus Otis 1846 William Kinman 1847 Edward Hyde 1848-49. John Frost 1850-51. J. W. Hardy 1852-53. Benjamin Hazelton 1854 S. W. Wilson 1855-56. T. W. Tucker 1857-58. S. W. Wilson 1859-60. Eleazer Steel 1861 John Adams 1862-63. Frederick Upham 1864-65. Edward T. Taylor 1866 David N. Culver 1867 John Adams 1868-69. Jotham Horton 1870-72. Thomas C. Pierce 1 873-75. Epaphras Kibby 1876-78. J. J. Bliss 1879-81. J. S. Risley 1882 Joel Steele 1883-85. J. C. Bontecan 1886 Asa Kent 1887-90. Thomas Ely 1891-93. E. W. Stickney 1894-95. C. S. Macreading 1896 - W. T. Harlow Cyrus Munger 1'homas Ely Frederick Upham C. H. Titus J. B. Gould William Kellen Sanford Benton William H. Stetson L. D. Davis Charles Nason F. A. Crafts Seth Reed A. W. Paige G. W. Bridge A. J. Church D. A. Whedon Elisha Dunham S. M. Beale J. D. King J. O. Thompson J. H. Humphrey Silas Sprowls John D. King Herman C. Scripps C. T. Hatch J. Hollingshead PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Dr. T. J. Walker, B. T. Hillman, E. W. Chadwick, W. E. Marchant, E. Gabrielson, J. Donaldson, G. J. Hart, G. R. Ripley. Stewards W. E. Marchant, B. T. Hillman, Eric Gabrielson, S. C. Norton, Allen Norton, J. F. Norton, J. N. Donaldson, H. A. Pease, G. J. Hart, G. Ripley. Sunday School Superintendent, Beriah T. Hillman; Asst. Super- intendent, James T. Chadwick; Secretary and Treasurer, Maria Smith; Librarian, P. N. Mayhew. Teachers E. W. Chadwick, J. Hollingshead, B. T. Hillman, J. E. Chadwick, G. J. Hart, Caroline L. Schofield, Lucretia S. Norton, Mrs. Charles A. Norton, Mrs. Arthur C. Vincent, Mrs. Jonathan Norton, Mrs. Mary E. Stapleford, Miss Charlotte Fisher. Superintendent Home Department Mrs. J. Hollingshead. a 5 > w o re r. M. E. CHURCH, FAIRHAVEN, MASS. Until Dec. 28, 1829, the Methodists in Fairhaven worshipped with the Elm Street M. E. Church, Xew Bedford. On that date the Fair- haven class requested that a chapel be erected for their accom- modation. In June, 1830, the new chapel was opened for worship, and dedicated. The sermons were by Rev. Orange Scott and Rev. John Lindsey. Rev. William Livesey was appointed to the station that year. The society continued as a branch of the Elm Street Church, New Bedford, until 1832, when it was deemed expedient that the Fairhaven Society become a sep- arate organization. Aug. 30, 1832, the organization was perfected with the following as Trustees: Joseph Millett, James Tripp (2d), John P. Winslow, Joseph P. Swift, Joseph B. Morse, Dennis McCarthy, Warren Max- field. The society continued to occupy their house of worship until the spring of 1849, when the subject of purchasing the edifice left vacant by the Centre Congregational Society, was agitated. On April 16, 1849, tne Trustees reported that they had "obtained a title to the property for the use and behoof of the Methodist Episcopal Church." ??*,> This building is still used by the society. It is a spacious w^ooden structure, contain- ing auditorium, vestry, class-room and kitchen; cen- trally located at the corner of Cen- TRE MILMCENT LIBRARY . ter and Walnut Streets, within the shadow of the elegant Town Hall and Public THE FAIRHAVEN CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 55 Library. This magnificent new library, the noble gift of H. H. Rogers, of New York, a native of Fairhaven, is situated nearly oppo- site the church, and makes this one of the most desirable appoint- ments in the Conference for a studious minister. THE FAIRHAVEN PARSONAGE. The first meeting-house still stands, a conspicuous feature of the landscape, on the left, as one enters Fairhaven from New Bedford via the bridge. It was purchased by the town; raised, to secure an additional story, and fitted as a high school. A long list of illustrious men have served this church. Many REV. SHERMAN E. ELLIS. MRS. SHERMAN E. ELLIS. glorious religious awakenings have cheered the hearts of the faithful. To speak in worthy terms of all these pastors, would take a volume alone. Many of them have gone to their reward, but their works do follow them. SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1830. Wm. Livesey 1831. Leonard Griffin 1832-33. Nathan Paine 1834. Lewis Janson 1835. Daniel K. Banister 1836-37. David Leslie 1838. Henry Mayo 1839-40. Apollos Hale 1841-42. Isaac Stoddard 1843. Nathan Paine 1844. John W. Case 1845. Daniel Webb; supplied by G. W. Brewster 1846-47. Micah J. Talbot, Jr. 1848. Henry Baylies 1849-50. Samuel C. Brown 1851-52. Horatio W. Houghton 1853-^4. Richard Livesey 1855-56. William H. Richards 1857. Bartholomew Otheman JAMES EDB, Sunday School Superintendent. 1858. 1859-60. I86I-62. 1863-64. 1865-67. 1868-70. 1871-72. 1873-74. I875-77- 1878. 1879. 1880-82. I88 3 . 1884-85. 1886-88. 1889-90. 1891-92. 1893-94. 1895. 1896 James M. Worcester John B. Husted Edward A. Lyon William Livesey Henry H. Smith Frederic Upham John Gray Hopkins B. Cady Geo. DeB. Stoddard Daniel C. Stevenson Francis D. Sargent George E. Fuller Edward L. Hyde Henry J. Fox William F. Davis W. Lenoir Hood Nathan C. Alger George A. Sisson William S. Fitch Sherman E. Ellis MISS ELIDA C. STEVENS, Epworth League President. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Eben Akin, Jr., Fred'k Williams, Thomas N. Reynolds, James Ede, Cyrus Peckham. Stewards Alfred Nye (Recording), Eben Akin, Jr., Fred'k Will- iams, Cyrus Peckham, Henry Shurtleff, Thomas N. Reynolds (District), Samuel W. Babbitt, James Ede, Stephen M. Allen, Robert H. Taber, Lydia B. Shurtleff, Martha E. Sampson. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 57 Class LeadersGeorge E. Loyd, R. H. Taber. Sunday School Superintendent, Jas. Ede; Asst. Superintendent, Miss L. F. Winchester; Secretary, Miss Florence Howard; Asst. Sec- retary, Miss Grace Nickerson; Treasurer, Eben Akin, Jr.; Librarian, Miss Abbie Williams; Asst. Librarians, Miss Annie May Nye, Miss Alice P. Winchester. Teachers Rev. S. E. Ellis, Robert H. Taber, Mrs. Ruth A. Waltz, Mrs. Mary E. Sylvester, Mrs. S. E. Ellis, Miss Mabel Bates, Mrs. Eliza A. Baker, Miss Elida Carpenter, Miss Mary Macomber, Mrs. Emma S. Morse, Miss L. F. Winchester, Miss Sadie Blaisdell, Mrs. Hannah F. Nye, Miss Carrie L. Shurtleff, Mrs. Elizabeth Butman, Miss Martha E. Sampson, Samuel W. Babbitt, Miss Estelle Jackson, Mrs. Jessie E. Swain, Mrs. Lydia B. Shurtleff, Miss Anna C. Taber. Epworth League President, Miss Elida C. Stevens; First Vice- President, Miss Bessie C. Taber; Second Vice-President, Mrs. Edwin F. Dexter; Third Vice-President, Mrs. S. E. Ellis; Fourth Vice-Presi- dent, Miss Anna C. Taber; Secretary, Miss Alice P. Winchester; Treasurer, James Ede; Superintendent, Junior League, Miss L. F. "Winchester. FALL RIVER EPWORTH LEAGUE UNION. By Rev. R. M. Wilkins. The lack of unity and hearty co-operation in the Methodist Epis- copal churches of this city is one of the standing incidents of its his- tory. For more than a quarter of a century not a mission has been established in any of the outlying districts of this growing city. Other religious sects have come in and established from one to four missions during that time. The need of concentration of effort has been appar- ent for a long time. The Epworth Leagues have taken the initiative. In June, 1895, an invitation was sent to all the Leagues of the city by the League of the First M. E. Church for a union meeting to devise plans for a more complete union of our forces for larger success in Christian work. The response to the invitation was hearty. Hon. Robert F. Raymond of New Bedford addressed the meeting. A com- mittee of three from each League was appointed to report a plan at the next meeting, which was held in the following Septem- ber. At that time it was deemed advisable to effect a permanent or- ganization, consequently the usual form was observed, and the follow- ing officers were chosen for one year, the annual election occurring in September: President, H. H. Miller; First Vice-President, W. S. Davis; Sec- 58 SOUVENIR HISTORY. ond Vice-President, Miss Mary N. Adams; Third Vice-President^ Mrs. S. Simmons; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. Weaver; Secretary, Miss Alice L. Sampson; Treasurer, Miss Cora F. Hacking. The union is yet in its infancy, but the work already accomplished is fully appre- ciated. Large results socially and spiritually are expected in the near future. Three admirable lectures have been given by the following well-known brethren: Rev. E. M. Taylor, Bishop Hartzell and James. M. Taber. At each quarterly meeting a social has been held with good suc- cess. The success of the past year under the management of the present officers has been very gratifying. Mr. W. S. Davis was elected President at the last annual meeting in '97 and A. J. Shovelton first Vice-President, no other changes having been made. Mr. Shovelton inaugurated a union love feast, held once in three months at 5.30 Sun- day P. M. The first one was held in February, 1897, in St. Paul's Church, with a large attendance, and with spiritual power and enthu- siasm. These meetings are gaining in interest and good results must follow. It is the desire of these earnest workers that God will bap- tize these efforts with power, that they may bear abundant fruit. BRAYTON MEMORIAL M. E. CHURCH, FALL RIVER. The history of this church is somewhat unique. Its environment is historic. The memories of the past are sacred. The organization of a Sunday School in 1843, witn Abner L. Westgate of the First M. E. Church as superintendent, was the nucleus. The first sessions of the school were held in the base- ment of a four-tenement block called the Great Westerner,, located on the road to New- port (this part of the city at that time was in the town of Tiverton, R. I.), now South Main Street. Success crowned the efforts of officers and teachers. New accessions were made to the school as circum- stances would allow. A more OLD BRAYTON CHURCH. inviting and commodious room was subsequently secured in the hall over the Print Works on Globe Street. Mr. Joel Wood, then a young man of promise, became interested SOU I' EN IR HISTORY. 59 and identified himself with Sunday School work and has been a tireless worker in the years of service he has given the church. Mr. William Chapin, then the owner of the Print Works, was a man of push and Christian principle and through his influence reli- NEW BRAYTON CHURCH. gious services were held in the hall, largely for the benefit of his operatives. He bought a site on Globe Street for a new church, and laid the corner stone August 14, 1850. The church was dedicated as "Christ's Church" September 13. Rev. J. P. Cleveland, D. D., of Providence, R. I., preached the sermon. On the I4th of November fol- lowing the interior of the church was remodeled and enlarged to meet the increasing demand of the Sunday School. During the next four years three clergymen served the church: Revs. S. S. Ashley, Harmon and C. J. Cummings. Rev. David Patten, D. D., Presiding Elder of the Providence District, established a class here in 1853 and organ- ized the church. In the early autumn Rev. Amos H. Worthin began his labors as preacher in charge. The first Quarterly Conference was held here June 3, 1855, with Rev. C. H. Titus as Presiding Elder, and Elihu Grant preacher in charge. At this time Mr. Chapin sold his Print Works and left town. On the 4th of April, 1854, he held the last meeting of the corporation, the parish and church meeting fol- lowing. Dr. Patten secured the church property for the Methodists. The deed was given at this time, though the church did not take legal possession until 1857, when Asa U. Swinerton was pastor. Mr. Swinerton met with a severe loss in the death of his dear wife, whose funeral occurred March 17, 1861, the sermon being preached by Bishop Baker. Rev. C. A. Merrill preceded Mr. Swinerton 6o SOUVENIR HISTORY. and gave one year of service. Rev. Elihu Grant was his successor and for the second time gave valuable service to this church. At the close of his pastorate the church was placed under the fostering care of the First M. E. Church. Mr. Grant was a faithful, self-sacrificing man. Rev. Amos Walker was appointed his successor, and by careful management led the church on to victory. Rev. E. H. Hatfield, a man of more than ordinary pulpit ability, next came and attracted large crowds to the regular services of the church. Rev. Wm. P. Hyde followed him in the spring of 1868 and did valiant service for REV. R. M. WELKINS, MRS. R. M. WILKINS. the church. He lifted the burden of a debt, repaired the church, and on the day of dedication changed the name from Globe Street M. E. Church to Brayton M. E. Church. Hon. John S. Brayton, and Mrs. Mary B. Young, his sister, gave with a liberal hand to aid Mr. Hyde in his work. The Brayton family have been connected with Methodism from its introduction into southeastern Massachusetts to the present. Mr. John Brayton, grandsire of John S., and family was also one of the founders of the old historic M. E. Church at South Somer- set. His beautiful home was ever open to the weary itinerant who found here "a calm, a sure retreat." The family which have sprung from this saint of God have become prominent actors in the social business and professional life of Fall River. They have been identi- fied with every public movement tending to elevate society and afford relief to the suffering. The Methodism of North Dighton and this city stand an imperishable monument to the memory of John Brayton. During the pastorate of William P. Hyde a bell was presented to the society by Mr. Augustus Chase. Other pastors who have served SOUVENIR HISTORY. 61 this church with success are Rev. G. H. Lamson, C. S. Morse, E. A. Lyon, S. McKeown, Elihu Grant and W. B. Heath. During Mr. Heath's stay of three years the church was raised, and a vestry added, an annex built with room for the primary department and a ladies' kitchen, the roof shingled, and the building painted, at a cost of $2,500. Mrs. Mary B. Young and her brothers, John S. and Hezekiah Bray- ton, gave liberally to aid this work. Mrs. Young left a bequest in her will to the church of $1,000 in trust. The Ladies' Aid gave Mr. Heath valuable assistance in his work. Rev. B. F. Simon followed Mr. Heath. Again for prudential WILLIAM A. GAMMONS. Sunday School Superintendent. JOHN N. WILDE. Epworth League President. reasons the society thought it best to seek shelter under the wing of the First M. E. Church again. Mr. Simon served a second year and then the relation was discontinued. Rev. Robert Clark came as the next pastor, and was succeeded by Rev. J. G. Gammons. He spent five pleasant years here. He improved the main entrance to the church, beautified the auditorium and made it more attractive. Much of the work was done with his own hands, as lie has practical knowl- edge of frescoing. April, 1894, Rev. R. M. Wilkins was assigned to this field, and the relation has been continued to the present, this being the fourth year. The Year Book of 1894 gave 137 church members, and the total enrollment in the Sunday School, 272. At present there are 168 mem- bers of the church and 357 total enrollment in the Sunday School. The advancement of the church during this long period of business depression is cause for rejoicing. The rapid growth of the Sunday 62 SOUVENIR HISTORY. School and other departments of work called for more adequate accommodations, if large success was to be achieved. In January, 1895, a gracious revival of religion gave the church new and efficient workers. The need for a better place of worship had been under consideration for some time. A committee to raise funds for that object was appointed. Steps were taken to build. Pledges from the Ladies' Aid and from the Epworth League for $500 each had been secured, and Hon. J. S. Brayton and his sister, Miss Sarah S. Brayton, sent their checks for $500 each to aid the new enterprise. The en- couragement from this noted source gave a new impulse to the work, and made a new church possible. The board decided to dedicate the new church Brayton Memorial in honor of the pioneer Methodist of the locality, Mr. John Brayton. The idea of a better and more eligible site had been under discussion for some time, and the matter was finally referred to the Conference Board of Church Location. This board made a careful investigation of every available site, but failed to fix upon any. Plans were immediately drawn for a new building on the old site. The building committee empowered to act had specifications drawn ready for contractors' bids, when Mr. John D. Flint became interested and spent some time with the pastor making a careful investigation of available sites. Mr. Flint found one at last on Griffin Street, between Broadway and South Main Street, and made the board an offer of seventy-eight rods of land, worth in the market $3,000. This offer was gladly accepted and thus one of the most difficult problems in the history of the church was solved. The name of John D. Flint will never be forgotten by this church. He generously subscribed $500 to aid the enterprise. Credit is due to Messrs. Stevens, Dr. Davis and Edward B. Jennings for their liberality in donating so valuable a piece of property to this church. Through the influence of Rev. T. J. Everett, Presiding Elder, the Con- ference Home Missionary Board has given $400 to this work. The ground for the new building was broken June 14. The new structure will be Gothic and two-story, with all modern conveniences. The estimated cost of the new building is $9,300. With this new equip- ment and one of the best locations in this part of the city the church will march on to power, success and fame. PASTORS. 1854. Amos H. Worthin 1875-76. Edward A. Lyon 1855. Elihu Grant 1877-78. Samuel McKeown 1856. Charles A. Merrill 1879-80. Elihu Grant 1857. Asa U. Swinerton 1881-83. William B. Heath 1861-62. Elihu Grant 1884-85. B. F. Simon 1867. Edward Hatfield 1886-88. Robert Clark 1868-70. William P. Hyde 1889-93. J onn G. Gammons 1871-72. George H. Lamson 1894 R. M. Wilkins 1873-74. Charles S. Morse SOUVENIR HISTORY. 63 PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees William A. Gammons, J. N. Wilde, A. J. Wilcox, Walter Etchells, Hiram Bradshaw, J. B. Monk, John Wood, Vincent Thorpe, William Griffiths. Stewards J. N. Wilde, Joseph Solomon, William A. Gammons, Vincent Thorpe, Herbert Cash, Richard Shovelton, William Griffiths, A. J. Wilcox, Mrs. Sarah A. Rowbottom, Mrs. Nancy Turner, Mrs. Ellen Wood. Sunday School Superintendent, William A. Gammons; Assistant Superintendent, C. J. McCreery; Secretary, Vincent Thorpe; Treas- urer^. H. McCreery; Librarian, William Gaskell. Teachers R. M. Wilkins, J. N. Wilde, J. Solomon, Herbert Cash, George Monks, Richard Knowles, Hiram Bradshaw, Mrs. R. M. Wilkins, Mrs. M. Sykes, Mrs. Nancy Turner, Miss Florence Turner, Miss Bertha Kay, Miss Mary Buckley, Mrs. Lizzie Cash, Mrs. Wil- liam A. Gammons, Mrs. Mary Fitton, Miss Cora F. Hacking, Miss Charlotte Tongue, Mrs. A. Fields, Mrs. Vincent Thorpe. Infant De- partment Principal, Miss Stella M. Bounds; Assistants, Almeda Harris, Martha Dubois. Epzvorth League President, John N. Wilde; First Vice-Presi- dent, Joseph Solomon; Second Vice-President, Miss Stella M. Bounds; Third Vice-President, Miss Ella Wilcox; Fourth Vice-President, Miss Lizzie Hacking; Treasurer, George Monks; Secretary, Miss Cora F. Hacking. FIRST M. E. CHURCH, FALL RIVER, MASS. FIRST CHURCH. The source of Fall River Methodism is to be found in the church at South Somerset, formerly named in the appointments as Somerset. In the year 1824 Ebenezer Blake, the pastor of that church, began to "preach lectures" once a fortnight on week evenings in the village of Troy, as Fall River was then, called. His successor, Heman Perry, continued these services, and, in 1825, organized a class of about twelve members of which John Anthony was made leader. In June, 1826, Charles Virgin and Nathan B. Spaulding were ap- pointed to Somerset. They in- augurated a fortnightly Sunday service at a 'schoolhouse in Fall River. About the first of January, 1827, a gracious revival of religion occurred and from that time to the close of the year Mr. Spaulding gave his time wholly to the work in this place. At the close of the Conference of June, 1827, Fall River first ap- peared in the list of appointments and Edward T. Taylor was assigned to the charge. There were about one hundred members in the so- ciety at this time. An effort was made immediately to provide a suit- able house of worship and on Christmas of 1827 the first church was dedicated. This was located in Central Street. Mr. Taylor con- tinued with the church until De- cember, 1828, when he removed to Boston and assumed charge of the Mariners' Bethel, in that city, a position which he held for more than forty years and in which he won a world-wide fame. The young society enjoyed a growing prosperity until the latter part of 1832, when a tragedy occurred which was a severe blow for Methodism in all this vicinity. The pastor of the church at Bristol was suspected of the murder of a young woman whose dead body was FIRST CHURCH PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. found in Fall River. He was acquitted in court, but as a consequence of the affair an intense and violent prejudice against Methodism was created from which it suffered for a long period. Many withdrew from the church and congregation. Revivals replenished the num- bers, however, and in a few years a more commodious place of wor- ship in a better location became a necessity. A new church, erected on the site now occupied, was dedicated February 12, 1840, by Rev. Orange Scott, during the pastorate of Phineas Crandall. This build- ing was consumed by fire, in a conflagration which destroyed a large part of the business section of the city, Julv 2, 1843. The pastor, WILLIAM B. GOPF. Sunday School Superintendent. WILLIAM S. DAVIS. Epworth League President. Thomas Ely, applied himself with great energy and perseverance to the task' of rebuilding, and on April 3, 1844, the present structure was dedicated. The sermon on the occasion was preached by Rev. Charles K. True. In the winter of 1849-50, while Daniel Wise was pastor, the emi- nent evangelist, Rev. James Caughey, labored with the church about three months. At the ensuing Conference three hundred and forty- nine members and two hundred and one probationers were reported. The congregation had become so large that it was impossible to accom- modate the people with sittings, and it was decided to rent a hall, divide the congregation and ask for two preachers from the Con- ference. Accordingly Mr. Wise was returned and Elijah T. Fletcher was made his associate. The two preachers alternated in preaching, each serving both congregations every Sabbath. During the year the second society was organized, and thus originated St. Pauil's Church. The two societies worked in perfect harmony, recognizing 66 SOUVENIR HISTORY. the little river that flows through the center of the city as the line of division between the two parishes. During the pastorate of Frederick Upham funds were secured for the building of an organ, which was placed in the church in June, 1853, just after Mr. Upham's term of service had expired. In 1863, while Henry Baylies was pastor, a house on South Main Street was purchased for a parsonage. After being used for this purpose ten years the property was sold and the present parsonage was built on Ridge Street. In the same year and during the pastorate of S. L. Gracey, the space between the church and the sidewalk was utilized by erecting two stores, connected with the front of the church, thus making the structure in part a business block. The trustees were led to this action by the increasing value of land in the vicinity and the great demand for rents for business purposes. In 1891, while Walter J. Yates was pastor, the church was extensively renovated, the vestries being practically rebuilt, new rooms added, and the front of the building so reconstructed as to contain four larger stores instead of the two small ones that had previously been available. Throughout its history this has been eminently a "revival" church. Outpourings of the Divine Spirit resulting in large additions to the membership have been frequent, while scarcely a pastoral term has passed in which considerable numbers have not been added to the church. During several of the pastorates the accessions have ranged between seventy-five and one hundred and fifty, and in some of them more than the larger of these numbers have been received. PASTORS. 1827-28. Edward T. Taylor 1857-58. 1829 Ebenezer Blake 1859-60. 1830 Daniel Webb 1861-62. 1831-32. Ira M. Bidwell 1863-64. lS 33-34- Squire B. Haskell 1865-66. 1 8 35-36. Mark Staple 1867-69. 1837 Hector Brownson 1870-72. 1 838-39. Phineas Crandall 1873 1840-41. Isaac Bonney 1874-76. 1842-43. Thomas Ely 1877-78. 1844 George F. Pool 1879-81. 1845-46. James D. Butler 1882 1847-48. David Patten 1883-85. 1849 Daniel Wise 1886 1850 Daniel Wise and Eli- 1887-88. jah T. Fletcher 1889-91. 1851-52. Frederick Upham 1892-95. 1853-54. Elisha B. Bradford 1896-97. 1855-56. John Howson Thomas Ely Andrew McKeown Charles H. Payne Henry Baylies Joseph H. James John D. King Alfred A. Wright Samuel L. Gracey Ensign McChesney Watson L. Phillips William T. Worth Warren A. Luce Dwight A. Jordan Alfred E. Drew Archibald McCord Walter J. Yates Warren A. Luce Stephen O. Benton. SOUVENIR HISTORY. In this connection it should be stated that E. T. Taylor removed to the Mariners' Bethel, Boston, in December, 1828, and Ebenezer Blake and others supplied until the next session of Conference; Mark Staples failed in health January, 1837,. and Jesse Fillmore, a local preacher, was in charge from February until the ensuing Conference; Henry Baylies was transferred to a western Confer- ence in the autumn of 1864, and J. H. James, then a member of the New Jersey Conference, who had just left a chaplaincy in the army, finished out the year and at its close was trans- ferred to this Conference; Warren A. Luce was compelled by impaired health to relinquish his pulpit in the summer of 1882, and Sidney Dean supplied to the end of the year. REV. S. O. BENTON. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees William H. Holt, Thomas Waring, Benjamin F. Davis,. William H. Harrison, William Thorpe, George A. Mathewson, John R. Butterworth, George Cook. Stewards William S. Davis, Benjamin F. Davis, George A. Mathewson, William C.Snow, Joseph Harrison, William Y.McMullen,. Alexander J. Dennis, John R. Butterworth, Everett E. Tripp, George Cook, William B. Garlick. Class Leader William H. Holt. Exhorter George Scholes. Sunday School Superintendent, William E. Goff; Assistant Superintendent, Samuel Wood; Secretary, Lewis A. Woodland; Asst. Secretary, John Dreghorn; Treasurer, George A. Mathew- son; Librarian, Laughlin W. McFarland; Assistants, Frank Linley,. Frank Coombs, Robert Thompson, Leslie Laflin; Primary Superin- tendent, Mrs. Lucy Fothergill; Primary Secretary and Librarian,. Edith Whitehead; Kindergarten Superintendent, Hattie L. Stebbins;: Assistant, Lucy E. Fothergill; Home Department Superintendent,. Mary N. Adams. Teachers Lizzie M. Grinnell, Lavinia Lawrence, William H. Holt, Mrs. Andrew Borden, Mrs. Robert Baillie, Wm. McLeod, Mrs. Elisha F. White, William C. Snow, Lizzie Sidebotham, Mrs. Walter W. Mason, Mrs. Samuel Wood, Mrs. George W. Angell, John Moore,. 68 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Mrs. Mary J. Bailey, Mrs. William Thorpe, Eva M. Benton, Mrs. Kezia E. Sutcliffe, Wright Turner, Mrs. Charles E. Hentershee, Wil- liam S. Davis, George Cook, Sarah J. Howarth, Peter Nelson, Josie A. Anderson, Annie L. Dickinson, Lavinia Reynolds, Mary N. Adams, Mrs. John Moore, Sadie M. Nelson, Mrs. Alfred Clarkson, Ruth Thackeray, Helen Smith, Lottie Mitchell, Annabel Woodland, Edwin F. Sharp. Epworth League President, Wm. S. Davis; First Vice-President, Miss Lizzie Sidebotham, Second Vice-President, Miss Mary N. Adams, Third Vice-President, Mrs. Samuel Wood; Fourth Vice- President, Albert E. Vaughan; Secretary, Wright Turner; Treasurer, Miss Edith M. Sidaway. NORTH M. E. CHURCH, FALL RIVER, MASS. The North M. E. Church, like many others, had its beginning in Sunday School work. The records show that June 12, 1852, a meet- ing of the M. E. Sunday School of Steep Brook was held. John Haskell was chosen Superintendent and J. B. Ashley Secretary pro tern, and a committee of three was chosen to prepare a Constitution and By-laws for the school. On January 3, 1853, at a meeting held the following resolution was offered by J. T. Wilson: "Whereas the merits of our society require a more convenient place to hold their Sunday School (having met until now in the Steep Brook schoolhouse) and religious meet- ings: Voted that we choose a committee to investigate said subject, and take all necessary preliminary measures to carry the same into effect." John Haskell, R. H. Allen and F. A. Hathaway were said com- mittee. In February, 1853, a meeting of the stockholders was held and the secretary reported that the Sunday school that began in the schoolhouse about nine months before, had an attendance of 116 scholars and teachers, with an average attendance of sixty during the year. At this session they voted to invite the Second M. E. Church of NORTH STREET CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 69 Fall River to send some one to take charge of the school. The request was granted and John Haskell came and discharged the duties of Superintendent with success to the school and satisfaction to all. The record goes on to say that "in a few more Sabbaths we hope for a more suitable place to worship in, and also that we shall have a minister sent to us." The second annual meeting was held April 6, 1854, and this meet- ing seems to have been held in the new church. David Patten, D. D., was Presiding Elder of the Providence District at this time, and preached the dedicatory sermon. PASTORS. 1854 O. N. Brooks 1876-77. 1855 J. N. Colyer 1878-79. 1856 J. Shepley 1 880-81. l8 5?-5 8 - P- Cranston 1882 1859-60. Supplied 1883-85. 1 86 1 A. G. Gurner 1886-87. 1862-63. G. H. Winchester 1888-89. 1864 B. Ashley 1890-91. 1865 J. Gifford 1892 1866-68. J. Q. Adams 1893 1869-70. J. G. Gammons ^94 1871-72. Philip Crandon 1895 1 873-75. R- W. C. Farnsworth E. G. Babcock G. H. Lamson A. J. Coultas A. J. Church J. G. Gammons E. G. Babcock J. A. Rood O. E. Johnson J. Livesey S. T. Patterson W. Ridington A. Anderson PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees R. Allen, D. Lown, F. M. Shaw, J. Wood, J. Lewin, W. B. Ashley, J. Shaw, P. Wilbur, R. Parlow. Stewards R. Allen, D. Lown, C. Davenport, G. Hathaway, W. B. Ashley, J. Shaw, J. Lewin. Sunday School J. Shaw, Superintendent; R. Brown, Assistant Superintendent, H. Hathaway, Secretary; B. Ashley, Treasurer; A. Childs, Librarian. Epworth League President, Pastor; Vice-President, E. Simmons; Secretary and Treasurer, R. Brown. * a QUARRY ST. M. E. CHURCH, FALL RIVER, MASS. On Sunday, November 2ist, 1869, the following notice was given in the First Methodist Church, and also in St. Paul's: "All who feel an interest in establishing a Methodist Mission Sunday School on the cross-road leading from the head of Bedford Street to Pleasant Street, QUARRY STREET CHURCH. are requested to meet in vestry No. 2 of the First M. E. Church on Wednesday evening, the 24th, at a quarter to 8 o'clock." In accordance with the above notice, the following persons as- sembled at the above time and place: Rev. J. D. King and Messrs. J. D. Flint, James Ashton, James Hunter, Charles Brett, Wm. J. Waring, S. W. Copeland, D. W. Baldwin, and Miss Alice Alty, of the First Church; also, Rev. F. J. Wagner and Messrs. Iram Smith, Lafayette Nichols, Adoniram J. Marble, Edward M. Pierce, Leroy Sargent and James E. McCreery, of St. Paul's Church. Rev. J. D. King opened the meeting with prayer. He was then chosen chairman of the meeting. After debate, it was unani- mously voted to establish a Mission Sunday School in accordance with the notice given. A building committee was elected, with instructions to report plans and estimates, the sense of the meeting being that a building to seat three hundred would be large enough. At a meeting held December 6, 1869, it was voted to build a house not to exceed $4,000 in cost. March 4th, 1870, it was reported that $2,400 had been sub- scribed. March nth, 1870, Rev. J. D. King reported that he had received from the First Church Sunday School $185. At this meet- ing Trustees were elected. Several meetings were held during the year, at which the progress SOUVENIR HISTORY. of the work was reported. Rev. A. A. Wright had meanwhile been appointed as Pastor of the First Church, and Rev. E. J. Haynes to St. Paul's. These brethren showed great interest in the new church, and the supplying of the pulpit was left in their hands until the appointment of a regular pastor was made. The new church building was dedicated September 28, 1870. It had been decided September 7th to name the organization "The Quarry Street Methodist Episcopal Society." The cost of the church edifice was about $5,500, and at the time of dedication there was left a debt of about $2,000. The church was REV. H. A. RIDGWAY. MRS. H. A. RIDGWAY. organized September 28. 1870, the day of dedication, with seven full members and one probationer. The first to join the church from probation were received May 7th, 1871. There were twenty-one. Of this number only three remain Caroline Goss, Sarah E. Booth and Jane Hunter. Of the seven original members none remain members of the church. The senior member is Mrs. Ellen Bowler. The Quarterly Conference of the Quarry Street Methodist Epis- copal Church was organized December 2, 1870, in the counting room of L. Nichols & Co., Rev. Dr. Brown, Presiding Elder of the Fall River District, being chairman of the meeting. Cornelius Hargraves was appointed class leader, and confirmed as Sunday School superin- tendent at this first Quarterly Conference. He held the position until the election of Mr. Wm. J. Waring in 1873. Mr. Waring held the position until 1895, with the exception of a part of one year, when Mr. Richard Shovelton occupied the place. In 1895 Edward Goss was elected superintendent, and has served ever since. Brother Goss is one of Quarry Street's young men, he SOUVENIR HISTORY. 73 EDWARD GOSS. Sunday School Superintendent. "having been a member of the school since his boyhood. He is deserv- edly popular, and has the universal esteem of all who know him. The school is in a prosperous condition, numbering over 300 mem- bers. For the Conference year of 1896-7 it had the largest average attendance of any Methodist school in Fall River. We have a faithful band of officers and teachers, and with larger and more convenient accom- modations the school would grow in the future. The Epworth League was organized by Rev. F. L. Brooks. The nominal membership was very large because of its novelty and the absence of re- strictions or of obligations. The League, however, under the leader- ship of Mr. Brooks did splendid ser- vice in the various branches of its work. The membership is not as large at present, it having been found neces- sary to revise the list of mem- bership and impose some obliga- tions upon the members. The young people of the church and League are loyal and intelligent, many of them earnest Chris- tians. The children of the church are organized into classes, Miss Ade- line Townsend and Miss M. Emma Ross having charge of the same. Miss M. Emma Ross is the deaconess who works in con- nection with this church, living at the Fall River Deaconesses' Home. Her ministrations among the poor and needy are blessed of God in winning some to Christ, and her work among the children and young people is of great help. In 1875, during the term of Rev. R. Povey, the parsonage was tmilt. Rev. J. C. Gowan succeeded in raising the debt on the church WM. J. WARING. Class Leader, 1873-95. 74 SOUVENIR HISTORY. property. Rev. F. L. Brooks was successful in having alterations and improvements made, at an expense of about $3,000. Most of this was paid during his pastorate. A comparatively small amount left over has since been paid. There is at present no debt on the property. The parsonage of the Quarry Street Church has just been re- paired and renovated, at a cost of between two and three hundred dollars. PASTORS. 1871. William Livesey 1883. John C. Gowan 1872. C. W. Warren 1884-86. John D. King 1873-74. S. M. Beal 1887-88. George M. Hamlen 1875. Richard Povey 1889-91. B. K. Bosworth 1876. E. D. Hall 1892-94. F. L. Brooks 1877-79. Henry H. Martin 1895 H. A. Ridgway 1880-82. James H. Nutting PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Benj. Palmer, Bethel Booth, Joseph Bridges, Alfred Hanson, Thomas Ashton, John Goss. Stewards Edward Goss, John Burgess, John Burne, Wm. Rat- cliffe, Joseph Bridges, Miss Nancy Kershaw, Mrs. Esther Coolidge, Mrs. Elizabeth Goss, Mrs. Jeannette McAlpine, Miss Clara Sampson, Miss Alice Sampson, John Goss (R. S. and Treas.). Sunday School Superintendent, Edward Goss. Assistant Super- intendent, Thomas Ashton. Secretary, James Walmsley. Assistant Secretary, Joseph Barker. Librarian, Jaspar Adams. Assistant Librarian, Joseph Ratcliffe. Teachers Mrs. Minnie Goss, Miss Clara Sampson, Miss M. Emma Ross, Edward Goss, John Goss, Edward Vinecombe, Miss Nancy Kershaw, Miss Alice Sampson, Mrs. Sarah Booth, Mrs. Anna M. Ridgway, Miss Eleanor Holden, Mrs. Elizabeth Goss, Miss Ade- line Towriend, Mrs. Eliza Waring, Mrs. Selena Shaw, Miss Ursie Cav- alier, Mrs. Mary Nabb, H. A. Ridgway, William Christophers, Mrs. Sarah Christophers, Miss Annie Raynes. Primary Department Superintendent, Miss Annie Ashton. As- sistant, Miss Esther Raynes. Epworth League President, H. A. Ridgway. First Vice-Presi- dent, Miss Adeline Townend. Second Vice-President, Miss Lizzie M. Ratcliffe. Third Vice-President, Miss Nancy Kershaw. Fourth Vice-President, Miss Jennie Coe. Secretary, Miss Alice Sampson. Treasurer, Joseph Ratcliffe. ST. PAUL'S M. E. CHURCH, FALL RIVER, MASS. By Iram N. Smith. During the winter commencing with December, 1849, the pastor of the old First Church, Fall River (Rev. Daniel Wise), was assisted in special services by Rev. James Caughey, evangelist. Their joint efforts were blessed abundantly, and two hundred converts were gath- ered in. At the following Con- ference (1850), three hundred and forty-nine members were re- ported, besides two hundred and one on probation. The church edifice having been found en- tirely inadequate for the congre- gation, many who desired pews being unable to secure them, it had been decided to form a sec- ond congregation, and to ask the Conference for an additional preacher. Accordingly, Rev. Elijah T. Fletcher was appointed as associate with Mr. Wise for the year ensuing. A hall was se- cured on Main Street, a new Sabbath School was estab- ST. PAUL-S CHURCH. lished and regular Sabbath preaching was begun. The two pastors alternated in preaching, each addressing both congregations every -Sunday. ORGANIZATION. On April 20, 1851, one hundred and twenty-three members of the First Church, having withdrawn by letter, organized as the Second M. E. Church, with Rev. Ralph W. Allen as regularly appointed pas- tor. The preaching services were held for a time in Liberty Hall, the upper story of a brick building on the south side of Pocasset Street, the lower story being occupied by a bowling alley. A part of the site is now occupied by the Daily Herald building. This hall soon became too small for the increasing congregation, and Union Hall was en- gaged, an upper story of a wooden building then located on the north- west corner of North Main and Bank Streets. The spot is now occu- pied by the First National Bank building. The first service was held here in July, 1851. While occupying Union Hall the church had as SOUVENIR HISTORY. chorister and organist, Eben Tourjee, who was then the proprietor of a small music store on North Main Street, but who was afterwards ST. PAUL'S CHURCH (Interior). widely known as the founder of the New England Conservatory of Music, of Boston. CHURCH EDIFICE. The subject of a church edifice was brought up at the First Quarterly Conference, May 7, 1851, Rev. Thos. Ely, Presiding Elder. ' r 1 REV. J. H. MacDONALD. MRS. J. H. MacDONALD. It was decided to build, and a committee was appointed to secure subscriptions. On August 4th, 1851, in Union Hall, the Church or- ganized as a corporation, with the name of "St. Paul's M. E. Society of Fall River." September i Irani Smith reported, for the trustees, SOUVENIR HISTORY. 77 that the lot on Bank Street had been purchased from Oliver Chace for $2,303.17. (This lot was then occupied by a bowling alley.) Sep- tember 1 8 a plan for a house of worship was accepted and placed WILLIAM S. GREENE. Sunday School Superintendent. GEORGE W. PENNIMAN. Epworth League President. in the hands of a building committee, consisting of Wm. Mason, Irani Smith, Elisha D. Hathaway, Wm. H. Mason, Oliver H. Bush, Henry Pratt, Mervin R. Chace, Benj. P. Cunningham and David P. CHARLES E. CROSS, Layman. R. C. BROWN, Layman. Davis. On July 4th, 1852, the lecture room was occupied, and on November loth, the church, having cost $16,000, was dedicated. The sermon was preached by Rev. Daniel Wise. SOUVENIR HISTORY. IMPROVEMENTS AND PROGRESS. In 1856, during the pastorate of Rev. Micah J. Talbot, $5,000 was paid on the church debt. In 1864, in the second pastorate of Rev. Samuel C. Brown, the building was enlarged to its present seat- ing capacity of 800, having cost up to that date $24,000. The re-dedi- cation services occurred November 24, 1864, Rev. R. M. Hatfield of Brooklyn preaching the sermon. Ten years later, during the pastor- ate of Rev. Geo. E. Reed, class rooms were added at the rear of the church and other improvements were made, at an expense of $3,000. At the same time, through the efforts and liberality of Organist Wm. J. Hathaway and others, a magnificent organ was put in, at an ex- IRAM SMITH (Deceased). WILLIAM MASON (Deceased). pense of about $5,000. In 1879, under the skillful direction of Rev. R. H. Rust, pastor, who was especially aided by the very great lib- erality of Mr. Leroy Sargent, the church debt ($7,000) was paid. In April, 1897, the trustees obtained, mostly by purchase (a few being donated) all the pews owned by individuals, and the corporation (so- ciety) was dissolved. This desirable result was due very largely to the untiring efforts of Rev. A. J. Coultas, the retiring pastor, as he closed his five years' pastorate. The trustees now hold a beautiful church edifice and a comfortable parsonage, the latter valued at $5,000. REVIVALS AND CHURCH WORK. The most notable revivals in the history of the church have been as follows: 1857-58, pastorate of Samuel C. Brown; 1863, pastorate of J. A. M. Chapman; 1871, pastorate of Emory J. Haynes; 1873-74, pastorate of Geo. E. Reed; 1879, pastorate of R. H. Rust, when Pen- tecost and Stebbins were in the citv. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 79 St. Paul's Church has aided greatly in the establishment of the four M. E. Churches which have been organized in the city since this one. Its members have contributed financially, have joined the member- ship, and some of its officials have even served for some years on the boards of the new organizations. The Deconess Home of this city owes its origin and its support very largely to the members of St. Paul's. In benev- olent collections it has contributed $21,000 to missions (including $1,016 in the year 1864), and $23,000 to the other church benevolences. The total number who have been members of our church is 1,376. The present membership is 400. H. H. MILLER. Ex-President Epworth League. PASTORS. 1851-52. 1853-54. 1855-56- 1857-58. 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-64. 1865 1866-67. 1868-69. 1870-71.' 1872-74. 1875-76. 1877-79. i 880-8 i. 1882-84. 1885-86. 1887-88. 1889-91. Ralph W. Allen John Hobart Micah J. Talbot Samuel C. Brown John B. Gould J. A. M. Chapman Samuel C. Brown Alfred A. Wright Geo. A. Bowler Francis J. Wagner Emory J. Haynes Geo. E. Reed Geo. W. Woodruff R. H. Rust C. W. Gallagher E. M. Taylor H. D. Kimball J. C. Hull J. M. Williams 1892-96. 1897- A. J. Coultas J. H. MacDonald St. PAUL'S PARSONAGE. It is worthy of mention that of all our ex-pastors, one only is now preaching in this Conference. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Charles E. Case, Robert C. Brown, Wm. S. Greene, James E. McCreery, Thos. F. Vickery, Irani N. Smith, Henry W. Davis, M. V. B. Benson, Frank B. Akin. So SOUVENIR HISTORY. Stewards Vernon Wade, A. F. Shove, A. L. Luther, Wm. R Winter, Wm. H. Simmons, Frank B. Albro, Dr. S. W. Gibbs, H. H. Miller, Wm. H. Goss, Jas. Hunter, Chas. H. Cook, John H. Douglass, Ellery C. Davis. Class Leaders Jos. Wood, Dr. R. J. Thompson, A. J. Marble, Geo. W. Hadcock. Local Preacher L. M. Fisher. Sunday School Has enrolled 45 teachers and 476 scholars. Su- perintendent, Wm. S. Greene; First Assistant Superintendent, A. J. Marble; Second Assistant Superintendent, A. F. Shove; Secretary, Chas. E. Brightman; Treasurer, Geo. K. Brown; Librarian, Harry Howland. Epu'orth League The Epworth League, established in the pas- torate of Rev. H. D. Kimball, and now numbering 160 members, has the following officers: President, George W. Penniman; First Vice- President, H. H. Miller; Second Vice-President, Mrs. Kate M. Coop- er; Third Vice-President, Arthur W. Smith; Treasurer, Miss Carrie Hunter; Secretary, Miss Edna S. Negus. SUMMERFIELD M. E. CHURCH, FALL RIVER, MASS. Summerfield is the youngest of the six M. E. churches in Fall River, having been organized May 9, 1875, with eight members and nine probationers. It was the outgrowth of a movement begun by the "Fall River Praying Band," an organization connected with the other M. E. churches of the city. On the evening of April 20, 1874, this band held a meeting "for the consideration of making some movement for the spreading of the gospel truth and saving of the perishing, especially in those parts of the city w r here the people were without church privi- SUMMERFIELD CHURCH. leges." An invitation to hold a prayer meeting at the home of Mr. John Wood, near the Narragansett mill, was ac- cepted. It was attended by only four persons besides the family of Mr. Wood. At a second meeting the attendance was greatly in- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 81 creased, and the spiritual power was so marked that it was decided to continue the meetings in this vicinity. Sinners were converted and backsliders reclaimed. On the evening of May 18, 1874, Rev. George E. Reed, pastor of St. Paul's, organized a class, appointing SUMMERFIELD PARSONAGE. Mr. Edward F. Anthony, leader. Sabbath services began to be held June 14, 1874, in a hall belonging to Mechanics mill, which were well attended. In the early fall a movement was made to secure a permanent place of worship. Messrs. A. J. Marble and C. W. An- REV. L. M. FLOCKEN. MRS. L. M. FLOCKEN. thony were appointed a committee to look for a suitable location. A lot was given, on the corner of North Main and Terry Streets. Suffi- cient money having been pledged to insure success, a meeting of the subscribers was called on the evening of September 9. Rev. George 82 SOUVENIR HISTORY. E. Reed was chosen chairman. C. W. Anthony, A. J. Marble, G. F. Hathaway, D. M. Pierce and C. F. Copeland were elected trustees and authorized to proceed with the erection of a chapel. On the 24th of January, 1875, the upper vestry was opened, and the Sunday School organized, with forty-four members. The services of Mr. John Hull were secured to canvass the neighborhood. The children responded to his invitation in such numbers that ampler quarters were soon needed, and the school was moved into the auditorium. It was now thought best to secure a pastor. Dr. W. V. Morrison, P. E., was consulted with regard to stationing a Conference minister. Ac- cordingly, Rev. W. B. Heath was appointed at the annual Conference held in New Bedford in April. The pastorate of Mr. Heath, ably assisted by his wife and now sainted mother, was very successful, and JAMES HARGRAVES. Sunday School Superintendent. ELISHA H. SMALL. Epworth League President. the new enterprise became a thriving and prosperous church. It was dedicated June 24, 1875, by Bishop Isaac W. Wiley, who preached from John xii., 19. Twice in this early period was the devoted little band stricken with bereavement, by the death, first, in August, 1874, of a Mrs. Winslow, an elderly lady who had taken a deep interest from the beginning; and, second, on March 17, 1875, of an esteemed lady, the wife of Royal B. Luther. Both passed away suddenly but in great peace of mind. The first name of the church was the "Terry Street M. E." In 1878 it was removed to the corner of North Main and Hood Streets, a most desirable location on North Park. It was then called the "North Main Street M. E. Church." During the summer of 1883 the building was raised, enlarged, and a capacious vestry put under- SOUVENIR HISTORY. GEORGE WHITTAKER, President Board of Trustees. neath. The name was again changed to "Park M. E. Church." Rev. Geo. E. Fuller was then pastor. In 1890 a troublesome debt, which had hung over the church for some time, was lifted through the heroic efforts of Rev. R. D. Dyson. The name was changed to "Summer- field," in honor of the Rev. John Summerfield, so famous for eloquence in Methodist annals. The Hon. John S. Brayton presented the church with a life-sized portrait of the re- nowned Summerfield, elegantly framed. Through Mr. Dyson's ef- forts, in 1891, a commodious parson- age was erected, valued at $2,600, on which there is still an indebtedness of $1,100. The church edifice is valued at $12,000, and is free from debt. Among the donors and helpers that made the church a possibility, there are many worthy examples, the most notable being A. J. Marble, first Sun- day School Superintendent, Charles W. Anthony and R. S. Reed. The esprit de corps of Summerfield may be said to have been the revival spirit. In all the pastorates this has been manifest to a greater or less degree, and there have been large accessions. This is necessary for the church to hold its own in the midst of a floating pop- ulation such as is here found. The most notable revivals, however, occurred in the pastorates of Rev. Geo. E. Fuller and Rev. M. S. Kaufman,. Mrs. M. N. Vancott, the noted lady evangelist, rendering valuable assistance in each. In the present pastorate the church was visited by a gracious revival during the month of January, 1897. An Epworth League, organized in the fall of 1896, with a membership of seventy, is working in all the departments. A Junior League, formed three years ago by Miss Nellie Olson, deaconess, is now doing good work under the management of Mrs. Sadie R. Griffin, the present deaconess, with a membership of forty-five. A Young Men's Mutual Improvement Society, which has been connected with the church for several years, is very helpful, maintaining, as it does, a lyceum and reading room. A circle of King's Daughters has proven itself helpful, as has also the ever indispensable "Ladies' Social." The present enrollment of the church is 190 members and eight probationers. That of the Sunday School is 300. 84 SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1875-78. Wm. B. Heath 1885-88. M. S. Kaufman 1878-79. J. F. Sheffield 1888-90. James Tregaskis 1879-82. Eben Tirrell, Jr. 1890-94. Robert D. Dyson 1882-83. E. F. Smith 1894-96. Edwin F. Jones 1883-85. George E. Fuller 1896 Louis M. Flocken PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees George Whittaker, Chas. W. Anthony, S. R. Vestall, Edward M. Palmer, Elisha H. Small, Wm. Squires, James Howard, James Hargraves. Stezvards John Tallman, Wm. Squires, David H. Manchester, Edward Dumas, James Hargraves, Thomas Whomby, Howarth Tay- lor, Fred Buffinton, Alex. Steen, H. B. Hilton. Class Leaders Edward Quarmby, Horden Howard, Howarth Taylor. Deaconess Sadie R. Griffin. Sunday School James Hargraves, Superintendent; Wm. Squires, Assistant Superintendent; Mrs. Abbie Lant, Superintendent of Pri- mary Department; Adah Buffinton and Sarah Illsley, Assistants; Henry B. Hilton, Secretary and Treasurer; H. Buffinton and J. Dear- den, Assistant Treasurers; Nelson Dumas, Librarian; Wm. Squires, Jr., Assistant Librarian; Malvie H. Goff, Organist; Mamie Whitta- ker, Assistant Organist; Fred Buffinton, Chorister. Teachers Mrs. Emma Orton, Viola Gifford, Sadie Vestall, Sarah Whittaker, Faith Waterworth, Sarah Waterworth, Mrs. L. M. Flocken, Rose Howard, Mrs. Mary Whittaker, Jennie Dumas, S. R. Griffin, Malvie H. Goff, Howarth Taylor, Mary Nowell, James Howard, Ed- ward Quarmby, Edward Atherton, Lizzie Peacock, Edward Dumas. Epivorth League Elisha H. Small, President; Howarth Taylor, First Vice-President; S. R. Griffin, Second Vice-President ; Thomas Whomby, Third Vice-President; Nelson Dumas, Fourth Vice-President; Rose Howard, Secretarv; Sarah Whittaker, Treasurer. M. E. CHURCH, FALMOUTH, MASS. By a Friend of the Church. The first mention in the records of the church bearing the name ""Methodist Episcopal," is in 1809. Those of that faith were few, but through the labors of Rev. Erastus Otis, a society was gathered, which in 1811 was incorporated as the Methodist Society of Falmoutli and THE FALMOUTH CHURCH. Sandwich. Methodism came into Falmouth two years before this. The first meeting was held January 8, 1807, in the house of Captain Stephen Swift. Dr. Hugh G. Donaldson was a pioneer in the faith; B. B. KING, President Board of Trustees. MRS. JAMES H. JONES, Junior League Superintendent. liis death occurred in 1812. Of these early meetings no record was Icept. The meeting for incorporation was held in Pocasset in June, 1811. 86 SOUr EN 1R HISTORY. A meeting-house was erected that year, near the cemetery, east of Falmouth village. In 1829 Wm. Nye deeded to the society a half acre of land near the central portion of the village, to which the church was removed in 1848. During the pastorate of Rev. E. D. Trakey it was taken down and the present church building was built on the same site. The old church has enjoyed prosperity and endured adversity. Her ranks have grown thin, and again and again been replenished by gracious revivals. During the pastorate of W. H. Stetson, in 1852, an extensive revival rewarded his faithful work. It was at that time that Rev. Dr. G. M. Hanilen, then a young man, gave himself j. H. JONES. Sunday School Superintendent. MISS AGNES FULTON. Epworth League President. to the Lord. A few are living and have remained faithful, but "some have fallen asleep." Children have gone out from the fold and built homes for themselves West Falmouth in 1857, East Falmouth in 1859, Woods Hole in 1884. It gave to the ministry Rev. C. T. Hatch, and can claim with other scattered children some of our min- isters' wives of later years, the wives of Rev. J. M. Taber and of Rev. E. W. Eldredge. A revival during the pastorate of Rev. H. W. Hamblin, a local preacher, gave to the church a few faithful ones who stand to-day as witnesses of God's power to save. Larger and more desirable churches rather overshadow this little church, but notwithstanding, it has ever possessed a "faithful few" who have made the church one of the strongest centres of spiritual power in the town. Many members in the other churches date their conversions to the little Methodist Church on Main Street. The old- est member living is Mrs. T. G. McLane, 80 years of age, standing on the "border land," a witness for the Master. SOUVENIR HISTORY. This sketch would hardly be complete without reference to Mr. B. B. King, who has been one of the financial and spiritual pillars of this church through many long years of conflict and victory. Through the perseverance and help of Rev. J. E. Blake, during his pastorate in 1895, a chapel addition was built costing $1,000. Much credit is due Dr. A. T. Walker and B. B. King for help rendered at that time. The present value of the church property is $5,000. PASTORS. 1809-10. Erastus Otis and B. F. Lombard 1811. Stephen Bailey 1812. J. A. Merrill ' 1813. *Abner Clark 1814. Wm. Frost and T. C. Pierce 1815-16. J. W. Hardy 1817. Shipley W. Wilson 1818. Benj. Keith 1819. Talman Stuart 1820. Edward T. Taylor 1821-22. Nathan Paine 1823. Joseph Allen 1824. Frederick N. Upham 1825. E. Otis 1825. J. Hutchinson 1826. Jotham Haven 1827. Benj. Hazleton 1828. Aaron Summers 1829. Laroy Sunderland 1830. N. S. Spaulding 1831. Charles Richardson 1832. Amos Binney 1833. George Stone 1834. Abram Hoi way 1835. J. B. Brown 1836. Salmon Hull 1837. Thomas Ely 1838. Otis Wilder 1839. Samuel W. Coggeshall 1840. Henry H. Smith 1841-42. O. Robbins 1843. Lewis Bates 1844. Wm. Turkington 1844. B. L. Sayer 1845. Hebron Vincent 1847. Ed. Trakey 1848. P. T. Kenney 1849. J- F. Blanchard REV. R. H. SCHUETT. 1850. B. Otheman 1851. J. Macreading 1851. W. Stetson 1852. W. Stetson l &52>- John Livesey l8 54-55- Daniel Webb 1856-57. J. E. Gifford 1859-60. G. S. Alexander 1861-62. E. K. Colby 1863-64. J. B. Washburn 1867-68. A. B. Wheeler 1870. E. S. Fletcher 1873. C. G. Deming 1874. G. H. Winchester 1875-76. H. W. Hamblin 1879. W. I. Ward 1879. W. L. D. Twombly 88 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1880. D. J. Griffin 1888. C. K. Jenness 1881. W. C. Kelt 1889-90. H. C. Scripps 1882. J. M. Taber 1891. R. S. Moore 1883. Thomas Sims 1892-93. F. L. Streeter 1884. T. A. Johnstone 1894-95. J. E. Blake 1885. Percy Perinchief 1896. * C. N. Hinkley 1886. A. G. Smith 1897 R. H. Schuett 1887. E. W. Eldridge *On an old gravestone in the Methodist Cemetery we find the name of Ab- ner Clark, of North Salem, N. H.; died February, 1814, aged 26. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees B. B. King, W. T. Davis, E. Handy, A. M. Robbins, J. H. Jones, D. E. Butler, H. O. Davis. StczvardsC. A. Avery (R. S.), B. B. King, S. E. King, H. O. Davis, T. G. Bowman, F. S. Robinson, H. Shiverick, P. D. Aurelio, C. M. Shiverick, C. K. Durgan, L. Baker. Sunday School Superintendent, J. H. Jones; Assistant Superin- tendent, Wm. T. Davis; Secretary and Treasurer, David E. Butler; Librarian, Mrs. J. H. Jones. Teachers James H. Jones, Miss Agnes Fulton, Miss Maria Fish- er, Mrs. P. D. Aurelio, Mrs. J. T, Lawrence. Epworth League President, Miss Agnes Fulton; First Vice- President, Mrs. G. H. Turner; Second Vice-President, Mrs. B. F. Luce; Third Vice-President, Mrs. L. B. Lane; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. A. M. Robbins; Secretary, Mrs. C. M. Shiverick; Treasurer, Mrs. J. H. Jones. Junior League Mrs. James H. Jones, Superintendent. M. E. CHURCH, LITTLE COMPTON, R. I. Methodism first came to Little Compton from Newport, R. I., in the year 1816; not in any organized manner, but in the home life and heart experience of Mr. Lemuel Sisson and family, and settled at Seaconnet Point, five miles distant from the village proper, called Little Compton. Mr. Sisson's family consisted of himself and wife and eleven children. Into this home that was so loyal and de- voted to God and his Church, their pastor from Newport would come occasionally and hold Methodist meetings. Friends and neighbors were invited in. The interest increased till in 1820 they were able to have preaching services every two weeks, conducted by Rev. Daniel Dorchester, then at Ports- mouth. In 1821 a local preacher by the name of Levi Chase, from Som- erset, held meetings around in pri- vate houses, during the month of June. On July 7 of the same year Rev. Daniel Webb came to Little Compton and preached in Mr. Sisson's home. After the preaching service he administered the ordi- nance of baptism to seven candi- dates, and then organized a class, appointing Mr. Sisson leader. During the same year, on Septem- ber 28 and 29, was held the first Quarterly Meeting, under the friendly shelter of Mr. Sisson's roof. This was the beginning of Methodism in Little Compton. For five years regular preaching services were held in this Mecca of Methodism, but such was the growth of the class that had been organized but four years, that in 1825 it was found necessary to build. The first Methodist church was built on the West Road, at the head of what is now called Meeting-House Lane, on a site of land pur- chased from Sylvester Brownell. Here the Methodists worshipped for fifteen years, when it was deemed advisable to seek another loca- tion. A lot, situated on the Common, was granted by the town, and upon this the second Methodist church was built in 1839, and dedi- cated April 1 6, 1840. The sermon of the occasion was preached by Rev. Daniel Webb, who, at the time of his death in 1867, was the old- LITTLE COMPTON CHURCH. OX) SOUVENIR HISTORY. est effective Methodist preacher in the United States, if not in the world. He was assisted in the service by the pastor, Rev. Joseph Brown. The first church building was sold, and to-day is occupied as a residence, in the centre of the town. In this new edifice, thirty-two years of growth resulted in such a sending down of roots and pushing out of branches that it was again found necessary to seek enlarged quarters. The project of a new church was the result of efforts put forth by Rev. A. A. Wright, pastor during the period of 1867-69. It was fostered by the society, and brought to completion in 1872, during the pastorate of Rev. S. T. Patterson. The new edifice stands just across the road from the REV. M. B. WILSON. MRS. M. B. WILSON. old one, cost $14,000, and was dedicated October 22, 1872, Bishop Simpson officiating, and also preaching the sermon, from Isaiah Ix, 13. The old church was sold, and is now occupied by the Odd Fellows. At the time of dedication, $7,000 indebtedness remained. This was all canceled before the dedicatory service took place, the people determining to honor God by presenting Him a house free of debt! Entering into the church we find a good-sized room on each side of the passage-way, for class meetings and social purposes, while at the end of the hall is a nicely arranged Sunday School room, 40x40 feet. Passing up stairs from the entry, we are introduced into a large auditorium, seated with circular pews, and accommodating from 350 to 400. The ceiling is finished in Gothic style, and neatly frescoed, while in the choir loft is a large pipe organ. All the rooms are illuminated by gas, and well furnished for the work in hand. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1820. Daniel Dorchester 1821-22. Isaac Stoddard 1823. Milton French 1824. Joel McKee 1825. Newell Spaulding LEMUEL, SISSON. Sunday School Superintendent. 1826. 1827. 1828. 1829. 1830-31. I832-33- 1834. David Culver Amos Binney Stephen Puffer Hiram Walden William Barstow Israel Washburn G. H. Winchester PASTORS. 1835- 1836. 1837-38. 1839. 1840. 1841. 1842. 1843-44. 1845-46. 1847-48. 1849-50. 1851. 1852-53- I854-55- 1 856-57. 1858. 1859. 1860. 1861-62. 1863. 1864-65. 1866. 1867-69. 1870-71. 1872-74. 1875-77. 1878-79. 1880-82. 1883-85. 1886-88. 1889-91. 1892-96. 1897 Henry Smith Daniel H. Bannister Philip Crandon Joseph Brown John C. Goodrich Lemuel Harlow John W. Case Daniel Webb Philip Crandon Richard Donkersley Elihu Grant G. W. Rogers Carlos Banning B. L. Sayer J. B. Weeks Charles Hammond John N. Collier G. B. Cargill C. A. Merrill C. S. Sanford S. W. Coggeshall W. McKendree Bray A. A. Wright Walter Ela S. T. Patterson W. J. Smith J. O. Thompson J. H. Humphrey E. W. Goodier W. P. Stoddard C. H. Ewer W. E. Kugler M. B. Wilson PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees B. F. Wilbur, President; Lemuel Sisson, Secretary; R. G. Brownell, J. E. Peckham, G. H. Brownell, E. B. Sisson, M. J. Sylvia, Albert Peckham, J. H. Shaw. Stewards Lemuel Sisson (R. S.), G. H. Brownell (D. S.), E. B. Sisson, M. J. Sylvia, R. G. Brownell, J. E. Peckham, Mrs. H. M. Simmons, Mrs. Eva Brownell, Mrs. Hattie J. Wardell. Sunday School Lemuel Sisson, Superintendent; Pastor, Assist- ant Superintendent; Mrs. J. Fremont Wilbur, Secretary and Treas- urer; G. F. Bixby, Assistant; Abram Wardell, Librarian; G. F. Bixby, Assistant; Miss Dora L. Peckham, Pianist. Teachers Albert Peckham, James E. Peckham, Lemuel Sisson, M. B. Wilson, Isaac Bearse, Mrs. Samuel Wills, Mrs. Albert Peck- ham, G. Herbert Brownell, Ephraim B. Sisson, Mrs. Abram Wardell, Mrs. Hattie Simmons. Ladies' Social Mrs. G. F. Bixby, President; Mrs. Annie Brown- ell, Vice-President; Mrs. Hattie Wardell, Secretary and Treasurer. M. E. CHURCH, LONG PLAIN, MASS. The Methodist Episcopal Church of Rochester, organized in 1823,. disbanded in 1857, and its few members united with the members upon Long Plain, forming the Long Plain society. According to the record, during the season of 1822, Philip Cran- LONG PLAIN CHURCH AND PARSONAGE. don, Sr., conferred with some of the more aged and serious of his neighbors respecting the importance of religious instruction in this place (Rochester). "The more aged and thoughtful, by the request of P. Crandon, agreed to procure the preaching of the gospel. Some wanted of one denomination, some of another, when Philip Crandon proposed that he would obtain a supply for the pulpit half the time if his friends would supply the other half." Mr. Crandon conferred with Rev. Sol- omon Sias of New Bedford, who presented the matter to the Conference of 1823. Rev. Phineas Crandall was sent by the Conference to Rochester and Middleborough. In 1825 Leonard B. Griffin came to the circuit and was instrumental in building a church in 1828. The trustees of that first church built at Snipatuit Hill were John Bennett, Jr., Philip Crapo, William Bryant, Billings F. Corey, Jonathan Vaughn, Lewis Shaw, Otis Shearman, Philip Crandon of Rochester, and William Spooner of New Bedford. The Long Plain church was organized in 1857 and the member- ship was strengthened by the remaining members of the Rochester church. REV. PHILIP CRANDON. The First Pastor. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 93 Philip Crandon had a son, Philip Crandon, Jr., who was appoint- ed in 1840 to the church which his father \vas largely instrumental in organizing, and he was the first minister in charge of Long Plain ap- pointed by the Conference. The growth of the church has not been great. Under the pastor- ate of the Rev. Jay Kirkendall, then a student at Boston University School of Theology, the membership was largely increased and the church refurnished and repaired. Pastors Philip Crandon, S. Wallace, Henry H. Smith, Josiah C. Allen, Moses Chase, George H. Winchester, S. T. Carroll, Caleb S. Sandford, Francis A. Loomis, George H. Butler, Erastus W. Goodier, John Thompson, Roderick J. Mooney, John S. Bell, Solomon P. Snow, William D. Wilkinson, Charles K. Jenness, Asaph Wicks, Jay Kirkendall and J. Elbert Thomas, the present pastor. REV. J. ELBERT THOMAS. JAMES SHERMAN, Chairman Board of Trustees. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees James Sherman, Albert Lawrence, Thomas Clark, J. E. Borden, James C. Gammons. Stezvards Mr. and Mrs. T. L. Clark, Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Borden, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Lawrence, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Gammons, Mrs. Sarah J. Brayley, Miss Alice Hazwell, James C. Gammons (R. S.), James Sherman (D. S.) Sunday School Superintendent, Mrs. Thomas L. Clark. Epworth League President Pastor. M. E. CHURCH, MARION, MASS. This church was organized July 8, 1865, by Rev. Thos. Ely, Pre- siding Elder of 'Sandwich District, assisted by Rev. G. S. Alexander, pastor of the M. E. church in Wareham, Mass. Thirty members, together with their pastor, Rev. R. H. Dorr, from the Protestant Methodist Church of Marion, presented them- selves in a body for admission into the Methodist Episcopal Church. The Quarterly Conference was organized, with Samuel Robinbon as class leader, and Daniel Hall, superintendent of the Sunday School. Rev. R. H. Dorr was appointed pastor by Presiding Elder Ely, and was assisted in his work for a short time by Rev. G. S. Alexander of Wareham. In August following the organization a grove meeting was held, during which a score of souls were saved, and the church was started in its work. In the grove meeting the pastor was assisted by Revs. J. A. Wood of Wyoming Conference, J. F. Sheffield of Providence Conference, and W. B. Gorham. The first pastor sent by the Conference was Rev. Abel Alton. Services were held for a short time in the district school house. A small church was built, and dedicated early in 1867. After preaching in the new church but once Mr. Alton was taken sick and died in March of 1867. He' was a man of God, and his memory is still held in highest regard. At the next Conference session, Rev. D. J. Griffin was sent to Marion and remained two years. His pastorate was almost one continual revival. The pastors who served Marion, and whose names are given below, had many things to discourage them. Eor fifteen years, however, the spiritual work of the church was strong; then on account of the death of many of its members, and the moving away of some, it suffered a period of discouragement, during which its existence as an organization was almost threatened. But by the efforts and prayers of earnest men and women, the tide was turned, and its growth has been steady ever since. During the pastorate of Rev. J. B. Washburn the church build- ing was enlarged and new pews added. During Rev. Frederick Up- ham's pastorate the church building was deeded to the Methodist church, and a debt of $200 was paid. Rev. J. S. Bell erected a parsonage and secured an organ and furnace for the church. Rev. J. S. Thomas, during his stay, refitted and refurnished the church, and added much to its comfort and attractiveness. The membership of the Marion Church has never been large, and from the nature of its location can never expect to be anything more than a live country church. Its whole life has been marked by SOUVENIR HISTORY. 95 deep spirituality. Many young men and women have been started and trained in the Christian life in this church, and have gone to swell the ranks and power of some of our churches more favorably located. Among the prominent laymen of years ago was William Briggs whose picture appears here. , THE MARION PARSONAGE. WILLIAM BRIGGS, (Deceased). PASTORS. 1865. 1866. 1867-68. 1869. 1870-72. 1873. 1873. I874-75- 1876-77. 1878. 1879-80. R. H. Dorr 1881. Abel Alton 1881-82. D. J. Griffin 1882. W. N. Chase 1883-84. J. B. Washburn J. W. Gaddis 1885. W. McLaughlin 1886-88. F. Upham 1889-92. E. W. Culver I 893-95- T. B. Gurney 1896. Samuel McKeown 1896 D. M. Rogers A. C. Peck Rev. Mr. Sanford J. L. Litch (Congregationalist) E. W. Eldridge J. S. Bell J. S. Thomas J. E. Duxbury Richard Burn Jay Kirkendall PRESENT OFFICIARY. Class Leader Rums L. Savory. Sunday School Superintendent Lucretia Coffin. Epzvorth League President Bessie E. Briggs. o u ; JS &. a S X; as <2. S . M W U W g o . A ^ M. E. CHURCH, MARSHFIELD, MASS. Marshfield has the distinction of being the former home of Daniel Webster, Massachusetts' greatest statesman. In a book entitled "Father Taylor, the Sailor Preacher," by Gil- bert Haven and Thomas Russell, on pages 86 and 89, we learn that "Father Taylor's" first pastorate was on Scituate Circuit, in which Marshfield was one preaching place. In a letter by Mrs. Taylor to her sisters, dated "Duxbury, No- vember 9, 1819," it is said: "The prospect of a revival of religion is pleasing, particularly in Marshfield and Duxbury." From this we infer that the organization of the Metho- dist Church here was probably some years prior to 1819. There is now in the possession of the Recording Steward a book entitled "Steward's Book, Marshfield Circuit, July 23d, 1825." It is well preserved, and contains important records (with a roll of forty-one members "In Full" in 1825) which contains records to 1848. This is the earliest local rec- ord we have been able to find. The first page is as follows: THE MARSHFIELD CHURCH. THE MARSHFIELD PARSONAGE. "QUARTERLY MEETINGS." "First Quarterly Meeting held July 23, 1825. Present: E. Hyde, P. Elder; H. Mayo, B. Jones, circuit preachers; Mr. Gold, local 9 8 SOUVENIR HISTORY. preacher; Mr. Melzer Sprague, steward; Brothers Hatch, Williamson, Tolman and Chandler. Opened with prayer. Proceeded to business. Chose B. Jones secretary, Brothers Anthony Hatch and John Chand- ler stewards. Adjourned." WEBSTER HOME. There were three Quarterly Meetings held that Conference year, one at Scituate, the other two at Marshfield, the last bearing the date "February n, 1826," at which B. Gurney, at his request, was granted license to preach. The first Quarterly Conference, July 6, 1826, met REV. L. H. MASSEY. MRS. L. H. MASSEY. in the "M. House," Daniel Dorchester, Presiding Elder. This "M. House" was the "Meeting House" often mentioned in later records. When it was built we have not been able to ascertain, but it stood SOUVENIR HISTORY. 99 on the hill, in the northwest part of what is now the village of Marsh- field, on the same spot occupied now by the church, which took its place in 1854. The latter is yet a neat frame building, painted white, with a tall steeple, which can be seen from many distant points. The first parsonage was a part of a building brought from the place now occupied by Geo. Baker's store, across the river, and placed on the same spot where the parsonage now stands. The first mention of the parsonage we find was in 1834, when the third Quarterly Con- ference was "held at the parsonage." Prior to this the Quarterly Con- ferences are mentioned as held at the "Meeting House," and once at "Dr. Melzar Sprague's house, September 13, 1831." There is a book, containing trustees' records, dating from May 9, 1853, down to 1864. In this book there is a record of the action NATHANIEL TAYLOR. Recording Secretary. CHARLES M. HARLOW. President Board of Trustees. of the board in building the present parsonage, in 1860, to which Calvin S. Magoun proposed to give $300 for the purpose, "if the trustees would hire a sufficient sum to finish said house, with the understand- ing if the house ceases to be a parsonage of the M. E. church within fifty years, that the $300 which he pays shall be refunded to him or his heirs." This proposition was accepted, the house was built, and, Octo- ber 3, 1860, the trustees gave C. S. Magoun a note of $200 "to cancel all the -outstanding bills on the new parsonage." How much was raised besides the $300 donated and the $200 hired is not known; but probably not very much more was required to build such a house at that time. The church has been managed by men of sturdy common sense, 100 SOUVENIR HISTORY. with consciences quickened by the grace of God. The class meeting, now led by Bro. Bryant C. Pratt, has been kept alive from the first. As early as October 26, 1835, there was a Sunday School, governed by a "S. S. Society," under a well-written constitution, in a book con- taining records down to 1855. There is also a "Constitution" of "The Marshfield Ladies' Benevolent Society of the M. E. Church," with records as far back as 1870. This society is still a potent factor in the work of the church. PASTORS. 1819. 1820-25. 1826. 1827-28. 1829. 1830. E. T. Taylor H. Mayo and B. Jones C. K. Avery Three quarterly Con- ferences held, but no pastor's name men- tioned Probably A. D. Mer- rill, then pastor at Duxbury Village, but no record Lewis Janson L. MAGOUN (Deceased). 1831. Charles Macreading 1832. Mark Staple 1833. Benjamin Keith 1834. R. D. Easterbrook 1835-36. William Ramsdell 1837. Enoch Reading 1838. Elisha B. Bradford 1839-40. Samuel Palmer 1841-42. 1842. 1844. 1845. 1846-47. 1848. 1849. 1850. 1851. 1852-54- 1855-56. 1857-58. 1859. 1 860-6 1. 1862-63. 1864-65. 1866. 1867-68. 1869. 1870. 1871-72. 1873. I874-75. 1876-78. 1879-80. 1881-82. 1883. 1884. 1884-85. 1886. 1886-87. 1888. 1889. 1890-91. 1892. 1893-94. 1895-96. 1897 Henry Mayo Dixon Stebbins William Leonard O. Robbins Lozien Pierce John B. Gould Samuel Beedle Thomas B. Blake Theoph. B. Gurney Oliver P. Farrington Benjamin K. Bosworth Robert Gould Thomas C. Pratt Lawton Cady Franklin Sears Josiah C. Allen Benjamin F. Pease Joseph C. Cramack Charles S. Mace (July) Nelson W. Chase Benjamin K. Bosworth James H. Humphrey Daniel M. Rogers John H. Allen Fred'c A. Crafts John F. Sheffield Theoph. B: Gurney Almon F. Hoyt, April to September Benjamin F. Jackson George A. Coe, May to July J. W. Luccock N. C. Ateer J. B. Ackley Merrick Ransom Francis D. Sargent G. H. Hefflon John Thompson L. H. Massev SOUVENIR HISTORY. IOI PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Bryant C. Pratt, W. F. Morey, Nathaniel Taylor, E. N. Pratt, James E. Baker, C. M. Harlow, Eldon Bailey. Stewards Nathaniel Taylor (R. S. and Treasurer), B. C. Pratt, Charles M. Harlow, W. F. Morey, E. N. Pratt, Eldon H. Bailey. Class Leader B. C. Pratt. Sunday School Superintendent, E. N. Pratt; Assistant, Hattie Belknap, Secretary and Treasurer, Mrs. E. N. Pratt; Librarian, Flora Lewis; Assistant Librarian, Mr. Eldon Bailey. Teachers Nathaniel Taylor, W. F. Morey, Martha Taylor, Hattie Belknap. Rcscri'c Teachers Mrs. M. A. Massey, Jennie Bailey, Leroy Bartlett. Christian Endeavor Society Organized by Rev. G. H. Hefflon, July i, 1893. President, Miss Martha Taylor; Vice-President, Eldon Bailey; Secretary, Mrs. M. A. Massey; Treasurer, W. F. Morey. M. E. CHURCH, WEST DUXBURY, MASS. In 1829 the Rev. A. D. Merrill, then pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Duxbury, held occasional evening" services in the West Duxbury school house, and one person was converted. Rev. Lewis Janson, pastor at Marshfield, held services here once a month, and one other person was converted, in 1830. In the year 1831, under the labors of Rev. James Bicknell, many professed conversion, and a class of eleven was formed, and connected with the church at Duxbury. In 1832, by the aid of the Dux- bury Church, a meeting-house was erected at Ashdod, where services were held, and in Octo- ber the house was dedicated, the sermon being preached THE WEST DUXBURY CHURCH. b >" RCV ' B " R Lombard, the Presiding Elder. A pas- tor being petitioned for, the Rev. Thomas Stetson was appointed 1833 remaining two years. 102 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Thus began the work, and thus, in four years from the beginning, a new charge was added to the Conference. "Until 1842," says one of its historians, "the church was blessed with general success." But at this date occurred the "Wesleyan Secession," at Dtixbury, when several members withdrew from this church, disturbing its harmony, and reducing its financial power. The next year (1843), under Rev. William Leonard, however, was a pros- perous one in conversions and accessions to the membership, and, the Wesleyan Church (at Marshfield) having dissolved, some that had withdrawn returned, and the house being enlarged, under Rev. J. C. Fifield, in 1848, continued to prosper. In 1867, following up business and the population, it was decided to sell the old, and build a new church. Under the labors of Rev. J. B. Washburn, the pastor, the location on the corner of High and Taylor Streets was selected, and the year 1868 witnessed the erection of the present church, under the pastorate of Rev. Edwin D. Hall, at a cost of $7,000, being dedicated June n, Rev. Samuel F. Upham preaching the ser- mon. It was a joyful day, and under an appeal by the pastor, $800 was raised at the time, leaving a debt of $2,700. This was further reduced by some $300, available from the sale of the former house and lot. So that at the close of the year, the pastor wrote "The dove of peace, with her snow-white wings, hovers o'er us; the finances of the church in a safe condition; all assess- ments for benevolences met, and no blanks on the minutes of the year." This year, also, ten conversions and nine accessions were reported. The debt on the church hung heavily upon the society, being reduced from time to time, for a number of years, until it was finally removed, in the year 1888, by the heroic efforts of Rev. F. L. Brooks, the pastor, and his grateful people. A jubilee service and bon- fire, which consumed the note, marks the day on which the heavy burden was lifted. Prior to this time, the business interests of the place declined, and the church was weakened both numerically and financially. The par- sonage was sold, and the church for a number of years has been served, principally, by students of the School of Theology of Boston University. The boys, however, and the other pastors, have all done GEORGE T. CHANDLER, Sunday School Superintendent. SOU I' EN IK HISTORY. 103 noble work, and a kind and noble people are yet "holding up the pastor's hands," and rejoicing in the highest of all privileges, that of being "laborers together with God." PASTORS. Including, as the three first named, those under whom the work began : 1829. A. D. Merrill 1862. 1830. Lewis Janson 1863-64. 1831. James Bicknell 1865-67. 1832. The Pastor of Dux- 1868. bury 1869. 1833-34. Thomas Stetson 1835. Lemuel Harlow 1836. Henry B. Skinner 1870-71. 1837. Elisha B. Bradford 1872-73. l8 3 8 -39- ( Ziba B - C., changed by General Court to) 1875. Howard C. Dunham 1876. 1840. . Chester Field, Jr. 1877. 1841.' Lewis Dwight 1878-79. 1842. Aaron Joslin 1880. 1843. William Leonard 1881. 1844. George H. Winchester 1883. 1845. Robert R. Thompson 1884. 1846. George W. Rogers 1885. 1847. Addison Woodard 1886. 1848-49. John C. Fifield 1887-88. 1850-51. Oliver P. Farrington 1889. 1852. John Tasker 1890. l8 53"S5- Samuel Norris 1891. l8 56-57- Josiah C. Allen 1892. 1858-59. George Watson 1893-04. 1860. Howard C. Dunham 1895-6. 1 86 1. James B. Weeks. 1897 Isaac Forbes Rums Gerrish J. B. Washburn Fdwin D. Hall G. W. Wooding (until November) and H. C. Dunham Charles Hammond (J. R. Ward to July) W. L. Phillips Joseph Marsh Silas Sprowls J. H. Vincent Justus H. Nelson William Willcocks B. K. Bosworth Winfield W. Hall W. L. Hood B. W. Hutchinson Arthur N. Searles F. L. Brooks F. E. Highway G. A. Sisson Francis D. Sargent Everett S. Hammond. George H. Hefflon John Thompson Lucius H. Massev Note From records given, from 1855 to 1868, a period of 13 years, the average estimate for pastoral support was $434.61 ; the aver- age amount paid was $392.37, a deficit in 13 years of $455. The whole amount during this period for Conference Claimants w r as $61 ; raised for missions, $88; Bible cause, $8; Tract Society, $14; Sunday School Union, $n; miscellaneous, $8; membership, in this period ranged from 61 to 87; average, about 70 (for n years 70 and a fraction). PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees John J. McFarlin, George F. Chandler, Chas. F. How- land. IO4 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Stewards John J. McFarlin, George F. Chandler, Charles F. Rowland, Airs. H. D. Thrasher, Mrs. Cordelia Randall, Mrs. Eliza- beth McFarlin. Sunday School Superintendent, George T. Chandler; Assistant Superintendent, -John J. McFarlin; Secretary, Ethel Rowland; Libra- rian, Albert Estes; Assistant, Miss S. E. Snell; Teachers, Mrs. H. D. Thrasher, E. T. McFarlin, Miss S. E. Snell, Mrs. S. E. Lewis, Miss Lizzie Alden. Y. P. S. C. E. President, Miss Lizzie Alden; Vice-President, Miss "Lizzie Atwood; Secretary, Miss S. E. Snell; Treasurer, Miss Al- berta Estes. M. E. CHURCH, MARSTON'S MILLS, MASS. Aaron Lummis was the first regularly appointed Methodist Epis- copal preacher in charge of the town of Barnstable. This was in the year 1813, and it was during this year that the people of Marston's Mills heard the Gospel first from the lips of a Methodist preacher. MARSTON'S MILLS CHURCH. But although there were Methodist preachers in the field continuously from this time, yet it was not until 1826 that regular classes were formed upon the circuit, and among the other classes organized was the Hamblin's Plains class, which many years later became a part of the Marston's Mills class. It was in 1829 that the church building which now stands at Marston's Mills was purchased from the Yar- mouth class and moved to its present site. In the year 1838 Marston's Mills was cut off from the Barnstable circuit, and became a separate station; and their first quarterly Con- ference was held July 24 of that same year; and Nathan Hamblin SOUVENIR HISTORY. 105 was chosen secretary of the Conference, which office he continued to hold for thirty-three years. The station then comprised Osterville, Cotuit Port and Hamblin's Plains, as well as Marston's Mills. The class at this place, which four years later was named the Marston's Mills class, was led by Joel Hamblin, who for a full half century or until the time of his death was continued as the class leader. In 1859, thirty years after its erection, the rain was beating in through the windows and leaky roof of the building. The seats were old and uncomfortable and the members were disheartened. But one of its own members, Thomas C. Pratt, was licensed to preach, and appointed pastor of the church, and by his zealous labors the build- ing was remodeled and repaired free from debt. MRS. A. J. BODGE, Sunday School Superintendent. MRS. A. G. CROSBY, Epworth League President. The society erected a tent on Yarmouth Camp-ground in 1863, and the church building was again remodeled in 1888, during Rev. E. B. Gurney's pastorate. The history of this church is that of a few faithful people strug- gling to keep a strong and constant religious influence in the com- munity, and although the society has passed through various degrees of prosperity, yet it may be said to its credit, that it has never dis- banded nor ceased to hold regular services, but for the space of eighty- four years has been supplied continuously with preaching and most of the time has been under pastoral care. It is at present a student supply appointment. PASTORS. 1813-14. Aaron Lummis 1817-18. 1815-16. Stephen Bailey 1819. 1817-18. Benjamin R. Hoyt 1820. Moses Fifield Benjamin Hazleton Isaac Jennison SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1821-22. Edward L. Taylor and Benjamin Brown 1823. Lewis Bates, George Weeks and La Roy Sutherland 1824. Lewis Bates and George 1825. Hezekiah Thatcher 1826. Hezekiah Thatcher and Charles G. Chase 1827. Enoch Bradley and T. G. Brown 1828. Warren Wilbur and Dan Robinson 1829. Hector Brownson and Lemuel Heath 1830. Hector Brownson and Charles Noble REV. JOHN W. H. MILLAR. 1831. Frederick Upham and Joseph Brown 1832. F. Upham and Apol- los Hale 1833. Abram Holway and Richard Livesey 1834. William Ramsdell and Benjamin Walker 1835. Joel Steele and D. K. Bannister 1836. Joel Steele and Henry H. Smith 1837. Erastus Otis 1838-39. Lemuel Harlow 1840. James Bicknell 1841. Wareham Campbell 1842. L. H. Beale 1843. George W. Stearns and GeorgeH. Winchester 1844. Otis Wilder, Mr. Hub- bard, Mr. Rood, J. Fifield, S. G. Usher 1845. John Fifield and S. G. Usher 1846-47. Abram M. Osgood and Lorenzo Barber 1848. Onesiphorus Robbins 1849. Addison Woodard 1850-51. Joseph Marsh 1852. Lemuel Harlow 1853-54. Benjamin Haines 1855. Thomas W. Douglas 1856. Nathaniel Swift 1857. Abram Holway 1858. Thomas C. Pratt 1859. George W. Green and Joseph Marsh 1860. J. A. Hunt and Edward Edson 1861. Charles A. Carter 1862-64. John S. Fish 1865. Moses Brown 1866-67. Philip Crandon 1868-69. Lawton Cady 1870. Francis A. Loomis and James R. Gushing 1871-72. Charles E. Walker 1873. R- H. Dorr 1874. Charles A. Carter 1875. Mosely Dwight 1876. Paul Townsend and Caleb T. Rotch 1877-79. John S. Fish 1 880-8 1. Philo Hawkes 1882. H. W. Hamblin 1883-87. A. H. Somers (Cong.) 1888-89. E. B. Gurney 1890-91. T. H. Corsen 1892-94. Oscar E. Johnson 1895. G. A. Sisson 1896. George Ross and C. H. Taylor 1897. John W. H. Millar SOUVENIR HISTORY. 107 PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees A. J. Bodge, Edmund Hamblin, Warren Hamblin, Clifton Fuller, Oliver Crocker, J. W. R. Sprague and Dr. J. H. Higgins. Stewards A. J. Bodge (D. S.), Clifton Fuller, Eunice Fuller, Esther Grigson, Nancy Crocker, Sophia Hamblin, Sarah P. Fuller (R. S.), Persis Coleman, A. G. Crosby, Hattie Mecarta, Christina Hamblin. Sunday School Superintendent, Mrs. Andrew J. Bodge; Assist- ant Superintendent, Clifton Fuller; Secretary, Addie G. Crosby. Epivorth League President, Mrs. A. G. Crosby; Vice-President, Mrs. Ann Hinckley; Secretary, Amy W. Cammett; Treasurer, Edna Fuller. M. E. CHURCH, MIDDLEBORO, MASS. The earliest records of Methodism in Middleboro are dated Sep- tember 15, 1823, when a number of articles were drawn up and sub- scribed to. The following composed the membership: Edward Winslow, Deborah Winslow, Martha Thomas, Mercy Barden, Susan S. Clark, Hannah Clark, Augusta Clark, Nathan Savery, Alanson ("ammons, Nathan Perkins. The first business meeting after organization \vas held May 3, 1824. A committee was appointed to make repairs on the Town House to fit it up for holding religious services, permission having been obtained from the selectmen. The expense incurred was $9. Rev. Asa Kent was the first pas- tor, beginning his labors in May, 1824, and serving two years. October 12, 1830, during the pastorate of Rev. David Culver, it \vas voted to build a meeting-house. A site was chosen in Fall Brook as being most central for the mem- bership, and the chapel was dedi- cated early in 1831. Worship was continued here until the death of Rev. Israel Washburn in 1861, when the chapel was closed, and re- mained so until 1863, when Rev. J. O. Adams, a local preacher (now a THE MIDDLEBORO CHURCH. io8 SOUVENIR HISTORY. member of the Conference), came here in the employ of the Star Mills Company. Being an aggressive Methodist, Mr. Adams succeeded in opening the house, and supplied the pulpit at Fall Brook for four months. It was then thought best to open a meeting at the Center. A hall was taken, over the furniture store of Mr. George Soule, and Rev. Aaron Gill, a local preacher, was engaged to supply the desk. In February, 1865, a chapel formerly occupied by the Baptists was leased for three years and fitted up at an expense of $300. March 9, 1865, this house was opened for worship, Rev. John Howson of East Weymouth preaching in the morning and Rev. Levi Abbott, pastor of THE MIDDLEBORO PARSONAGE. the Baptist church in Middleboro, preaching in the evening. After the evening sermon the use of the pews was sold for one year for $240. Meanwhile services continued to be held in the Fall Brook chapel a part of nearly every year until the latter part of 1889. After J. Q. Adams the following labored there: Theophilus Brown, Mr. Pierson, Rev. Willard Packard (Baptist preacher). In 1878 Roland Gammons conducted the services, and he was followed by John Hull. A Sunday School was organized with Winslow Pratt Superin- tendent, having an average attendance of 40. Rev. Ephraim Hunt next had charge, and was followed by H. N. Donnell, Rev. Mr. Osgood and Rev. Charles Pittsley. After a year of intermission the house was again opened for services in 1889 by Rev. T. J. Everett, pastor at the Center, but with the approach of cold weather the services were dis- continued and the chapel was closed until it was finally sold in the year 1896. The corner stone of the present church at the Center was laid August 21, 1868, by Rev. Thomas Ely, Presiding Elder of Sandwich district, $5,000 having been secured by the pastor, Rev. Freeman Ryder, for the erection of the building. The church was dedicated February 3, 1869, Rev. W. F. Warren, D. D., of Boston, preaching SOUVENIR HISTORY. 109 the dedication sermon. The cost of the church was $12,500, with a debt of $7,500. During the next pastorate, that of Rev. Samuel T. Patterson, all but $500 of the debt was provided for, and the membership of the church was increased from 36 in lull and 4 probationers to 130 in full and 25 probationers. Under the pastorate of Rev. S. J. Carroll, 1872-74, $500 w 7 as secured from the Church Extension Society to pay the balance of the debt on the church. During these three years there was a net increase of 56 members. The years 1876-79, during the pastorate of Rev. E. T. Towle, were very prosperous. The church was painted, a concrete walk laid, the vestry enlarged, a new organ added, a bell put in the tower and a deficiency in the running expenses made up. An extensive revival brought the membership up from 130 to 280. During the pastorate of REV. GEORGE A. GRANT. MRS. GEORGE A. GRANT. A. W. Kingsley, 1879-81, the vestry was much improved and two rooms were built on to the rear of the church for the use of the Ladies' Society, class rooms, etc., the expense, $500 to $600, being assumed by the Ladies' Aid Society. At this time the membership is reported as 244. A pipe organ was secured during the pastorate of Rev. G. W. Hunt. A Young People's Society is one of the memorials of the work of Rev. T. J. Everett, organized at first as a Christian Endeavor So- ciety September 29, 1889, and in the succeeding pastorate taking a charter as Everett Chapter, No. 8,029, Epworth League. T. J. Everett gave a decided impulse to the work among the young, and a large children's class was the result. In August, 1889, by the death of one of the most devoted members, Mr. Abner L. Westgate, the church came into possession of a handsome parsonage property on the corner of School and Pierce streets. no SOl't'ENIR HISTORY Quite extensive improvements were made in the church during the administration of Rev. W. F. Davis, 1892-95. The house was re- shingled and an addition built in the rear, affording room for the organ, with large chorus choir, back of the pulpit. A beautiful new pipe organ has replaced the old one. The exterior and interior have been thoroughly renovated and beautified, making a most delightful church home and a house of worship which is a credit to the church and town. KELWRY D. SMITH, Sunday School Superintendent. LOUIS D. CHURBUCK, Epworth League President. PASTORS. 1824-25. Asa Kent 1829. Elias C. Scott 1826. Isaac Stoddard 1830-31. David Culver (term 1827. Without Pastor not known) 1827-28. Lemuel Tompkins The records give the following, but no date of their service : Amos Binney, Lemuel Harlow, Thomas Brown. Josiah Lytch, Proctor Marsh, Otis Wilder, George Winchester, Sr., Elijah Willard.Ebenezer E wings, William Tamplin, Edmund E. Standish, George Macomber, George H. Winchester, Philip Crandon, Asa X. Bodfish, Israel Wash- burn. Aaron Gill Samuel F. Whidden F. C. Newell Freeman Ryder Samuel T. Patterson Samuel J. Carroll 1879-81. A. W. Kingsley 1882-83. G. W. Hunt E. L. Hyde S. McBurney T. J. Everett W. F. Davis 1864. 1864-66. 1866-67. 1 868. 1869-71. 1872-74. Also E. A. Manning, E. D. Hall and theological students as sup- plies. 1884-86. 1887-88. 1889-91. 1892-95. Charles Macreading 1876-79. E. D. Towle 1896 George A. Grant SOUVENIR HISTORY. I:I PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees James L. Jenney, Sylvanus Mendall, Samuel S. Lovell, Martin O. Rounsville, Nathaniel Warren, Granville L.Thayer, Francis M. Sherman, William M. Raskins, Levi B. Tinkham. Trustees of Parsonage Thomas W. Pierce, Sylvanus Mendall, James L. Jenney. Stewards Henry D. Smith, R. S.; William M. Raskins, D. S.; Thomas W. Pierce, John P. Arnold, Levi B. Tinkham, Ezra J. Kelley, Marcus M. Thompson, Clifford S. Lovell, Frank N. Woodward, A. Ellis B. Leach, Andrew J. Bisbee, Reuben W. Leonard, Louis Chur- buck. Class Leaders Francis M. Sherman, Maria S. Raines, Rev. George A. Grant. Sunday School Superintendent, Henry D. Smith; Assistant Superintendents, Reuben W. Leonard, Ellice J. Stone; Secretary, Batie A. Smith; Treasurer, Martin O. Rounsville; Librarian, Levi B. Tinkham; Assistant Librarians, Flora Leonard, Ella E. Barden, Etta D. Taylor, Thersa Norton ; Organists, E. Maud Francis, Lottie Tink- ham. Teachers George A. Grant, Louis D. Churbuck, Isa Pittsley, Julia Tinkham, Susie H. Hunt, Etta G. Baker, Linnie W. Pratt, Car- rie Bisbee, Emma Haskins, Maria S. Raines, Rose Clark, James L. Jenney, Maria C. Lovell, Louisa Francis, Nellie Stevens, Jennie Vaughn, Frank N. Woodward, Eva L. Grant, Sophia. Soule, Eliza Atwood, Minnie D. Walker, Florence Mendall. L,adies' Aid Society President, Mrs. Thomas W. Pierce; Secre- tary and Treasurer, Mrs. Thomas Soule. Willing Workers (Home Missions) President, Mrs. Thomas Soule; Secretary, Mallie A. Taylor; Treasurer, Flora Leonard. King's Daughters President, Airs. A. J. Bisbee; Secretary, Mrs. John P. Arnold; Treasurer, Ida Atwood. Epworth League President, Louis D. Churbuck; First Vice- President, Susie Hunt; Second Vice-President, Linnie Pratt; Third Vice-President, E. Maud Francis; Fourth Vice-President, Lillie Breach; Secretary, Samson McFarlin; Treasurer, Edward N. Hunt. M. E. CHURCH, MYRICKS, MASS. Myricks is a small place situated on the N. Y., N. H. & H. Railroad, between New Bedford and Taunton. It is known to the traveling public as a railroad junction where long and sometimes very undesirable delays are often made to connect with trains. Just out of sight of the depot, almost surrounded by the shades of the primeval forest, stands the little white church, making a pretty picture with its green back- ground. This church was built for a Protestant Methodist church, but was reorganized into a Methodist-Episcopal Churoh in 1871, Rev. Samuel C. Brown be- ing at that time Presiding Elder of the Fall River District. Rev. J. G. Gammons became the pastor of the new church, which was composed of seven- teen members. There has been since that time no remarkable growth or sweeping revivals, yet this church has been steadily en- larging both in numbers and in- fluence. During the pastorate of Rev. J. B. Washburn, the Ladies' Circle placed a bell on the church. Some needed repairs were made, and besides these signs of temporal prosperity the church was blessed with a revival in which about twenty were converted. During the pastorate of Rev. C. T. Hatch quite extensive repairs were made on the church building. The old high gallery was taken down, a place was made for the choir beside the pulpit, a new pulpit suit and communion service were added, the floors were newly carpeted and the church was painted within and without, all at an expense of $400. The society owns a beautiful grove adjoining the church, in which for some years the annual clam-bake has been given. This church has been quite largely supplied by students from Bos- ton University. During the pastorate of Rev. H. H. Critchlow, a convenient parsonage was built at a cost of $1400, which will now pro- vide a home for a man with a family. A legacy left some years ago by Hephzibah Taylor formed a nucleus for this new parsonage. MYRICKS CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1871-73. J. G. Gammons 1884-85. 1874. Solomon P. Snow 1886. 1875-77. J. B. Washburn 1887-89. 1878. F. D. Sargent 1890-91. 1879. Charles H. Farnsworth 1892. 1880. Charles Stokes 1893-94. 1881-82. Charles T. Hatch 1895. 1883. George Hudson 1896 J. O. Denning John Livesey George H. Flynn Benjamin J. Chew F. B. White C. E. DeLaMater H. H. Critchlow E. B. Gurney J. A. Morrison and Benjamin C. Gillis each supplied the church a month in 1887 and 1890 respectively. REV. E. B. GURNEY. MRS. E. B. GURNEY. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees John F. Allen, Ebenezer Macomber, Charles Staples, James Paull, Mrs. Hannah Williams, Mrs. Hannah Cole. Stewards John F. Allen, O. M. Farmer, Charles Staples, Fannie Peirce, Mrs. Melissa Farmer, Mrs. Hannah Williams, Mrs. Amy Anthony, Mrs. Mary A. P. Allen, Mrs. Mary Pierce, Mrs. Amy Staples, Mrs. Elizabeth Gushing. Sunday School Superintendent, Pastor; Assistant Superintend- ent, James Paull; Secretary, Albert F. Haskins; Treasurer, Charles O. Farmer. Epworth League President, Pastor; First Vice-President, Mrs. Mary A. P. Allen; Second! Vice-President, Mrs. Amy Anthony; Third Vice-President, Edith Haskins; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. E. B. Gurney; Secretary, Ada D. Anthony; Treasurer, Mrs. Melissa Farmer. M. E. CHURCH, NANTUCKET, MASS. The first Methodist preacher who ever visited this island was Rev. Jesse Lee, who came here on the 6th day of April, 1797, a few weeks after the inauguration of John Adams as President of the United States. He remained eighteen days and preached sixteen sermons. In 1798 Rev. Joseph Snelling, a na- tive of Boston, being stationed on Martha's Vineyard, was invited here, and for lack of a room suffi- ciently large to hold the people, he held meetings in the open air on Mill Hill, where all classes, rich and poor, white and black, as- sembled to hear the Word. A very large number were converted, and many others awakened, but no society formed. Rev. George Pick- ering was Presiding Elder, and was requested to send them a preacher, and Rev. William Beau- champ was accordingly sent, and proved a very judicious appointment. On the 24th of July, 1798, he formed the first society of Methodists on the island of Nantucket, in an upper back room in Pearl Street. This society con- sisted of nineteen persons. January i, 1800, the pastor dedicated the first Methodist Episcopal Church of Nan- tucket, on Fair Street, and at the close of the year reported sixty-five mem- bers in the society. The salary of the minister was fixed at $80 a year, and four families assumed the re- sponsibility of boarding him. In June, 1801, Rev. Joseph Wells was appointed to succeed Rev. Mr. Beauchamp, and in 1803, Rev. Joshua Soule succeeded him. Here is a break in the history r.ntil June 2Oth, 1812, when Rev. NANTUCKET PARSONAGE. THE NANTUCKET CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. Elijah Heckling was appointed pastor. These last two were afterward Bishops of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In June, 1820, the New England Conference held its first session in Nantucket, Bishop George presiding, and the preachers then numbered about 100. In 1823 Rev. Isaac Bonney was stationed here, and the congregation hav- ing outgrown Fair Street Church the Centre Street Church was built at a cost of $14,000, and seating 1,000 people, and was dedicated Sep- tember 20, 1823, by Rev. John Newland Maffit, who served as paster for the balance of the year, during which time a gracious revival took REV. O. M. MARTIN. MRS. O. M. MARTIN. place which increased the membership 150. In June, 1837, the New England Conference for the second time held its session here, when the number of preachers had increased to 172. Bishop Hedding pre- sided at -this session, and Rev. John Lord was stationed here, who having gotten under a cloud was suspended for a year, and Rev. John Thompson Burrill was appointed his successor; but Mr. Lord, feeling pugnacious, drew off some of the best of the membership and organ- ized the Summer Street Baptist Church. At the next session of the Conference he was expelled from the Methodist church, but the effects of his disloyalty are still felt. In 1838 Rev. J. T. Burrill was re-ap- pointed, and in 1839 R CV - Stephen Lovell was the pastor. In 1840 Rev. Ezekiel W. Stickney was appointed pastor, and in 1841 the New England Conference was divided and the Providence Conference formed, and held its session in Nantucket, when Rev. Daniel Fillmore was made pastor, and during the year one of the most extensive revivals of religion occurred that the island has ever witnessed, swelling the membership to 621. Mr. Fillmore was re-appointed in 1842, and in 1843 an d J 844 Rev. David Patten, Jr., was the pastor, and was sue- SOUVENIR HISTORY. ceeded in 1845 and 1846 by Rev. Daniel Wise. In 1846 the great fire occurred that destroyed $2,000,000 worth of property, burning all around the Centre Street Church, leaving it a monument of God's goodness to his people. Still, a goodly number of the members of the church lost their all of worldly possessions, leaving the church financially crippled. MRS. M. F. COFFIN, Sunday School Superintendent. MARY H. BORDEN, Epworth League President. PASTORS. 1837. John Lord 1867. 1837-38. J. T.' Burrill 1868-70. 1839. Stephen Lovell 1871-72. 1840. E. W. Stickney 1873. 1841-42. Dan'l Fillmore 1874. 1843-44. David Patten 1875-76. 1845-46. Daniel Wise 1877. 1847. E. B. Bradford 1878-79. 1848. John Lovejoy 1880. 1849. William Livesey 1881-82. 1850-51. J. B. Husted 1883-85. 1852-53. Micah J. Talbot, Jr. 1885. 1854. " N. P. Philbrook 1886-87. 1855. John Cooper 1888-89. 1856. E. H. Hatfield 1890. 1857. S. W. Coggeshall 1891. I858-59- M - P- Alderman 1891. 1860. James A. Dean 1892. 1861-62. Asa N. Bodfish 1893-94. 1863-64. W. H. Stetson 1894-95. 1865-66. C. S. Macreading, Jr. 1895 William H. Jones William H. Starr G. A. Morse B. K. Bosworth S. E. Evans C. N. Hinckley C. E. Walker' Richard Burn A. L. Dearing Merrick Ransom Frank Bowler A. M. Osgood George E. Brightman S. M. Beale Angelo Canoll J. L. Hill R. J. Floody J. N. Geisler R. J. Kellogg D. C. Ridgway O. M. Martin ' SOUVENIR HISTORY. 117 There was a time when Methodism in Nantucket had more than 600 communicants, but that was in the palmy days of whaling, and Nantucket was considered among the best appointments of the Con- ference, but the whaling interests collapsed, and it has since made but little progress, and the membership has been reduced to about one- sixth of the former number. The place, however, is fast rising into prominence as a summer resort, and is peculiarly adapted to it, as the Gulf Stream comes up very near, thus making the winters mild and enjoyable, and the summer never lacks a cool, refreshing breeze, thus avoiding both extremes. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees E. B. Dunham, Asa C. Jones, Walter Coffin, Leon Royal, Albert Chadwick, O. A. B. Tracy, George Brown, Mary F. Coffin, Mary H. Nye. Stewards Leon Royal, Albert Chadwick, Walter Coffin, B. R. Burdette, E. B. Dunham, Mary H. Nye, Christine Dunham, Mary F. Coffin, Lydia Brokaw, Ellen Tracy, Lydia Beebe, Lydia Allen, Erne- line Coffin. Sunday School Superintendent, Mary F. Coffin; Assistant, O. M. Martin; Secretary, Lizzie Chase; Treasurer, Lizzie Pinkham; Libra- rian, Mabel Winslow. Teachers O. M. Martin, Mrs. O. M. Martin, Mary H. Nye, Flor- ence Swain, Sarah L. Swain, Emeline Coffin, Carrie Brown, Eunice Robinson, Jennie Robinson, Ella Norcross, Carrie Norcross. Epzvorth League President, Mary Borden; First Vice-President, Susie Austin; Second Vice-President, Mrs. O. M. Martin; Third Vice- President, Anna Marden; Fourth Vice-President, Sarah L Swain; Secretary, Walter Coffin; Treasurer, O. Clinton Hussey. THE METHODIST SOCIAL UNION OF NEW BEDFORD AND VICINITY. By Fred L. Thompson. On the 6th day of January, 1890, there were assembled at the Y. M. C. A. rooms in New Bedford, a committee consisting of the pastor and two lay delegates from each of the Methodist Episcopal churches located in New Bedford, Fairhaven and Acushnet, to consider the advisability of organizing a social society, having as its object the promotion of sociability and fraternity among the members of the various churches. They accordingly organized the Methodist Social Union of New Bedford and Vicinity. After adopting a con- stitution and by-laws, R. F. Raymond, Esq., was elected president. The first public meeting was held on Monday evening, February 3, 1890, at the County Street Church, as this was the mother church of Methodism in this city. There were 101 charter members enrolled at this meeting. The first lecture was delivered March 17, 1890, by Rev. B. P. Ray- mond, president of Wesleyan Univer- sity; subject: "Education." The next was by Dr. Charles Parkhurst of Bos- ton on "The Race Problem in the South." R. F. Raymond was re- elected president for the year 1890-91. On Nov. 15, Bishop Wm. Taylor of Africa addressed the Union on his work in "The Dark Continent." During the year lectures were delivered by Rev. C. H. Mann, Prof. O. A. Curtis, D. D., Prof. S. F. Upham, D. D., who spoke on "John Wesley, the Founder of Methodism," at the centennial occasion of his death, and Prof. C. T. Winchester. R. F. Raymond, Esq., was re-elected president for the year 1891- '92. On October 7 Dr. Brodbeck opened a course of revival services by a sermon in County Street Church. Lectures during the year were by Prof. Daniel Dorchester, Jr., of Boston, subject: "An Evening With the Poets." Dr. J. M. King, subject: "The School Question." Dr. George E. Strobridge of New York, subject: "The Value of a Great Man"; and Prof. C. T. Winchester, subject: "An Old Castle." R. F. Raymond, Esq., was again re-elected president for the year 1892-93. The only lecture recorded for the year was delivered by p. L. THOMPSON. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 119 James Clement Ambrose of Evanston, 111., subject: "The Sham Family." Mr. George M. Eddy was elected president for the year 1893-94. Lectures during the year were as follows: Rev. W. H. Milburn, D. D., subject: "Aaron Burr"; Rev. William V. Kelley, D. D., on "Robert Browning"; Prof. Daniel Dorchester, Jr., of Boston University, lec- tured on "Some Old Stories"; Rev. George L. Taylor of Georgetown, Conn., subject "Woodpeckers: Critics and Criticisms." Mrs. Mar- garet Bottome, President of the King's Daughters, spoke upon "What I owe to Methodism," and Rev. C. C. McCabe, D. D., delivered his popular lecture on "The Bright Side of Life in Libby Prison." At the annual meeting and banquet held May 21, the late Leonard B. Ellis delivered an historical address on the "Beginning of Methodism in New Bedford." Lewis C. Small was elected presi- dent for the year 1894-95 at this meeting. The lectures for the year were as follows: Rev. William Burt, D. D.. subject: "Modern Italy." Bishop John H. Vincent gave sug- gestions as to the proper train- ing of the American youth in his "Tom and His Teachers". Rev. R. E. Schuh, Ph. D., spoke on "Modern Socialism. On January 17, 1895, the union celebrated the centenary of the first' Methodist sermon preached in New Bedford by Rev. Jesse Lee. Services were held the entire day, consisting of a sermon by Bishop E. G. Andrews, D. D., LL. D., in the morning. Short addresses in the afternoon, and the late Leonard B. Ellis read in the evening his his- torical paper, "The Beginning of Methodism in New Bedford." This completed the exercises of the celebration. Rev. A. B. Kendig, D. D., spoke on "Methodism Historically Interpreted." Rev. E. M. Taylor, D. D., gave a patriotic address on "Washington as a Nation Builder," and Rev. W. W. Ramsay, D. D., spoke on "Sky Wonders," which completed the lecture course for the year. Lot B. Bates was elected president for the year 1895-96. The course for the year was as follows : Readings by Prof. Hibbard of Wes- leyan University; Rev. J. R. Day, D. D., Syracuse University; sub- ject: "A Mile a Minute"; Rev. J. D. Pickles, D. D., of Boston, subject: "Palestine and Egypt"; Rev. A. J. Palmer, D. D., of New York, de- R. F. RAYMOND. Ex-President Social Union. I20 SOVVENIR HISTORY. livered his thrilling lecture, "Co. D, The Die-No-Mores"; Rev. J. E. Price, D. D., of New York, subject: "Noiseless Forces," and Rev. F. D. Blakeslee, D. D., principal of East Greenwich academy, deliv- ered a beautifully illustrated lecture, subject: "Venice to Naples." Savory C. Hathaway was elected president for the year 1896-97. Lectures for the year as follows: Rev. C. M. Melden of Brockton, sub- ject: "A Glimpse of Holland"; William I. Haven of Brookline, gave a very instructive talk on "The Mastery of the Mind"; Rev. J. M. Buck- ley, D. D., LL. D., of New York, subject: "Washington and Lincoln Compared and Contrasted"; Rev. W. T. Perrin of Boston, subject: "Visions," and Rev. M. D. Buell of Boston, on "Skill." At the annual meeting and banquet the following officers were elected for the year 1897-98: President Frederic L. Thompson. First Vice-President Marshall F. Lewis. Second Vice-President Mrs. H. K. Nye. Recording Secretary Mrs. C. G. Winslow. Corresponding Secretary Mrs. H. H. Critchlow. Treasurer David S. Small. While only the more prominent facts and events in the history of the union have been recorded here, enough perhaps has been given to demonstrate that the Methodist Social Union has had a creditable existence, and that it has exerted an uplifting influence in this com- munitv. ALLEN STREET M. E. CHURCH, NEW BEDFORD, MASS. The Allen Street Church edifice was built in 1842 by Christian Baptists, and for several years was occupied by that denomination. In 1851 it was purchased by members of the Fourth Street Church. Rev. Moses Chase, then pastor of that church, was mainly instrumen- tal in bringing this about. Twenty- three members went out from Fourth Street Church and formed this church. The first pastor was Rev. Andrew McKeown, under whose labors the new enterprise was greatly strengthened. As the result of a four weeks' protracted meeting, 34 souls were added, and at the close of a two years' pastor- ate 149 members were reported. The good work went on under succeed- ing pastors. The great revival dur- ing the period of Dr. Chapman's labors, in 1857 (that year of re- vivals), is probably the most marked. Finding a membership of 137, he reported at the close of his second year 220 A considerable per cent, of the latter were evidently received in full by the next pastors; for the following spring 268 members were re- ported', and the spring follow- ing that 272, a number which has never been equalled till the report of the last Conference (1897), when, at the close of the pastorate of Rev. C. S. Davis, the membership num- bered 280, besides 20 proba- tioners. It may here be said that numerically the member- ship has varied from about 150 to 200 during almost the entire history, seldom rising above the latter, or falling below the former. Faithful men in the ministry and laity labored in those early days. ALLEN STREET CHURCH. members and 114 probationers. ALLEN STREET PARSONAGE. 122 SOUVENIR HISTORY. in heaven alone is their complete record. A quotation from a writer of about thirty years since may express the transformation wrought in this neighborhood: "In the vicinity of this church, and completely surrounding it, were many dens of vice and infamy. * * * Purity has taken the place of depravity in its most hideous and revolting manifestations, and the hymns of Zion are heard and sung on the very spot where the ribald jest and licentious song were wont to be heard and sung." In the spring of 1885 the Pleasant Street and Allen Street churches REV. J. N. PATTERSON. MRS. J. N. PATTERSON. were united under one Quarterly Conference, with Rev. A. E. Drew as pastor. This arrangement had become necessary on account of the almost prostrate condition into which the Allen Street Church had fallen, owing to a series of unfortunate circumstances. Besides being burdened with debt, the church had dwindled to a membership of 126, although two years before it had reported 185. This was due in part, however, to a conscientious revision of the records by the Rev. J. B. Hingeley, by which the books were disburdened of persons who no longer had an interest here, or who had removed. Great credit is due to Brother Drew for the very timely and efficient aid which he now rendered to this disheartened people. At the end of a year he left them clear of debt, and in possession of the greater part of the money with which the present parsonage was built. It was, however, during the pastorate of Rev. Edward Williams that the actual building was done. -The union with Pleasant Street Church having served its purpose, terminated at the end of one year, and with the pastorate of Brother Williams the church entered a period of prosperity which SOUVENIR HISTORY. 123 has continued till the present. Of the splendid success of the three pastorates of Revs. E. Williams, J. I. Bartholomew and C. S. Davis, covering a period of eleven years, a sufficient proof may be found in the fact that the church has, numerically, more than doubled in that time. Among the ministers who have served this church, some few have since become distinguished. Notably, Dr. J. A. M. Chapman, whose thrilling pulpit oratory, even while here, is yet remembered. Also Rev. C. S. Nutter, author of "Hymn Studies," and Dr. B. P. Raymond, now president of Wesleyan University. But the entire following list bears a high average, both in weight of Christian character and in general usefulness. PASTORS. 1852-53- I854-55- A. McKeown T. B. Gould H. T. BORDEN. Recording Steward. 1856-57. J. A. M. Chapman 1858. Henry Baylies l &59- J nn Howson 1 860-6 1. P. T. Kinney 1862-63. John Livesey 1864-65. Wm. Kellen 1866-67. F. J. Wagner 1868. E. A. Lyon 1869. Thomas Ely 1869-70. F. Ryder 1871-72. J. M. Durrell 1873. v - W. Mattoon 1874-76. B. P. Raymond 1877. J. H. Humphrey 1878-80. C. S. Nutter 1881-82. G. W. Wright 1883-84. J. B. Hingeley i88q. A. E. Drew 1886-88. E. Williams 1889-92. J. I. Bartholomew 1893-96. C. S. Davis J. N. Patterson 1897 A long list of honorable and faithful men and women of the laity have labored here, not the least important of whom have been the Sunday School superintendents and workers in the large and flour- ishing school, which has always been a part of this field. The follow- ing is a full list of Sunday School superintendents from 1851 till 1897: William R. Pittman, Henry H. Tillson, F. A. Chase, J. C. Brock, George B. VVilber, S. H. Briggs, Ira Y. Allen, W. D. Wilkinson, O. S. Simpson, T. I. Lewis, Lewis Pendleberry, R. F. Raymond, G. H. Briggs, E. P. Carter. Trustees G. H. Briggs, C. A. Tuell, C. R. Sherman, E. P. Carter, F. P. Moody, J. F. Tripp, I. D. Wilkinson, O. S. Simpson. 124 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Stewards C. A. Tuell, Mrs. E. M. Tuell, G. H. Briggs, Mrs. Annie M. Briggs, H. T. Borden (R. S. and D. S.), Edward Winter- bottom, Amos Gee, Mrs. L. A. Macreading, F. L. Thompson, B. Crocker, Charles Jenney, H. F. Hoxie. E. P. CARTER. Sunday School Superintendent. GEORGE H. BRIGGS. Epworth League President. SUNDAY SCHOOL. SENIOR GRADE. Officers Superintendent, Mr. E. P. Carter; Assistant Superin- tendent, Mr. Robert L. Cook; Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. Amos Gee; Librarian, Mr. Rossa Moriarity; Pianist, Miss H. Ashley. Teachers H. F. Hoxie, J. N. Patterson, Mrs. Mary Tripp, Miss Bessie Grieves, George H. Briggs, Miss E. Kasmire, B. F. Crocker, Miss A. Bowie, Miss Bertha Hathaway, Mrs. E. F. Hoxie, Miss Jessie Grieves, Miss Lizzie Frost, Miss Hattie Frost, David Burgess, Miss Hattie Ashley, Miss Edith Frank, Mrs. George H. Briggs, Miss Grace Sherman. PRIMARY GRADE. Officers Superintendent, Mrs. E. M. Tuell; Assistant Superin- tendent, Mrs. E. C. Schofield. Teachers Mr. O. S. Simpson, Mr. Edgar Wright, Mrs. Edgar Wright, Mrs. Amos Gee, Mrs. H. C. Bolles, Mrs. Nannie C. Cook, Miss Ada Smith, Miss Emma Winterbottom, Miss Carrie Rose. Epzvorth League President, George H. Briggs; First Vice-Presi- dent, H. F. Hoxie; Second Vice-President, Mrs. E. F. Hoxie; Third Vice-President, Calvin Ashley; Fourth Vice-President, Edith Frank; Treasurer, Arthur Smith; Secretary, Bertha C. Hathaway. SEAMEN'S BETHEL AND HOME. SEAMEN'S BETHEL AND HOME, NEW BEDFORD, MASS. The first meeting to take into consideration the expediency oi forming a society to promote the interests of seamen was held May 17, 1830. In May, 1831, a house and lot on Bethel Street were purchased. At the first annual meeting, held June 7, 1831, it was resolved that the form of worship should be perfectly unsectarian, and that all denomina- tions should have the privilege of supplying the pulpit. Services were first conducted in the old Town House every Sunday morning, each of the clergymen in the place officiating in turn. The first meeting was held Sunday, July 31, 1831. The first chap- lain was the Rev. Enoch M u d g e , who com- menced his labors April 27, 1832. The soci- ety was incorporated by act of the General Court May 4th, 1832. The Ladies' Branch was formed June 12, 1833. Rev. Mr. Mudge resigned in July, 1844. His successor was the Rev. Moses How. He was connected with the society for fifteen years. Rev. James D. But- ler was the next chaplain. He entered upon his duties April 15, 1859. He was born in New Bedford, Oc- tober 21, 1809; was himself a mari- ner. In 1839 he became a member of the N. E. M. E. Conference. He served until 1863. Rev. Sam- uel Fox from 1863 to 1869. Rev. B. S. Batchelor, 1869 to 1870. Rev. James D. Butler returned in 1870 and served until his death, Janu- uary 3, 1889. Rev. Edward Williams of the N. E. S. Conference was appointed his successor in 1889, at the close of his pastorate at Allen Street Church, New Bedford, and has served continuously to the present time. The duties of a chaplain embrace not only the conducting of reli- gious worship in the chapel, but carry him down on the wharves, among the seamen, and into their daily lives, where he must be ever watchful for a chance to bring some neglected sailor under the care and protection of the Bethel and its moral influences. During the greater part of this time the Bethel has been supplied by Methodist Ministers. REV. EDWARD WILLIAMS. CANNONVILLE M. E. CHURCH, NEW BEDFORD, MASS. For a number of years a Sunday School organization of greater or less strength has existed in the Cannonville Chapel. The vicissi- tudes of fortune through which this organization has passed are too numerous and tedious to mention. Therefore, we shall not trace its history from a more distant point than the advent of Brother Charles H. Brownell as superintendent in 1887. From that time on, progress has been the watchword. Only once in the last ten years have the prospects darkened, when, in 1891, Mr. Brownell was compelled to THE CANNONVILLE CHURCH. REV. C. H. TAYLOR. resign on account of sickness. God kindly provided for the needs of that hour by raising up for them a worthy superintendent, Mr. George S. Fox. Through his efforts, in 1895, the people of Cannonville and Rockdale united in calling a minister. Rev. C. H. Judkins of Boston University was secured. He remained only until April, but in his short stay started a good work. The Conference of 1896 sent Brother Jerome Greer to this charge. During his year's ministration much was done to put the work on a more solid foundation. The Conference of 1897 sent to this charge Rev. C. Howard Taylor, the present pastor. No church organization has yet been effected, but the present pros- perity indicates that such organization is near at hand. COUNTY STREET M. E. CHURCH, NEW BEDFORD, MASS. (This sketch is largely a condensation of a paper read by the late Leonard B. Ellis at the celebration of the centennial of New Bedford Methodism, February 5, 1895.) The first Methodist sermon in New Bedford was preached by Jesse Lee, January 30, 1795, in George East's tavern, still stand- ing on the northeast corner of Acushnet Avenue and Mill Street. For ten years after, Methodist services were occa- sionally held in school houses and dwellings. Among the preachers were Joshua Hill, Joseph Snelling and Daniel Webb. After the founding of the society at Head-of-the- River, in 1807, now known as the Acushnet Church, preaching services and class meetings were held under its direction in Fair- haven and New Bedford, in the latter place in the homes of Phebe Stowell, Susannah In April, 1817, a class was reg- It consisted of the COUNTY STREET CHURCH. Maxfield and Captain John Hawes. ularly organized to meet at Susannah Maxfield's. following sixteen members: John Hawes, leader; Mary Hawes, Joseph Stowell, Phebe Stowell, Susannah Maxfield, Phineas Kinney, Achsah Kinney, Mehitable Bennett, James Blur, Thurston Chapman, Esther Chapman, Zaccheus Chap- man, Amy Perkins, Benjamin Keith, Sarah Adams and Tim- othy I. Dyer. In 1819, a hall was rented in the second story of a build- ing on the corner of Second and Mill Streets, and Benja- min L. Sayer preached with- out compensation till Confer- ence, when Rev. Jesse Fill- more was appointed first pas- tor. When because of the coming of the Presiding AUDITORIUM VIETV 128 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Elder, or for other reasons, the hall was not large enough, the Middle Street Christian Church was freely placed at the service of the infant so- ciety. The following were present at the first Quarterly Conference, November 23,. 1820: Rev. George Picker- ing, Presiding Elder; Rev. Jesse Fillmore, pastor; Zac- VESTRY VIEW cheus Cushman, Timothy L Dyer, Phineas Kinney and Jonathan Tuttle. The last-named was superintendent of the Sunday School, organized in 1841. In June, 1821, on the northwest corner of Elm Street and Acush- net Avenue, the first church was erected, 45x50 feet, at a cost of $1,200. In the attic was an "upper room" for prayer and class meetings, where Pentecostal blessings were often received. This structure was enlarged and a chapel added in 1840. A serious contention was settled in favor of pew doors, and another by a compromise providing that half of the pews should be free and half rented. The pastor opposed free seats. Rev. Solomon Sias took charge in 1822 and calmed the factions. John Newland Maffitt held revival meetings during this pastorate. Disci- pline was rigidly maintained in the early Methodist fashion. The sisters wore Quaker bonnets and did not don black for mourning. There was a committee to advise members on business matters, and some were suspended for non-attendance at class meeting. Special services were held in outlying villages. The first annual report, in 1821, showed expenses of $222.68, with five cents in the treasury. A singing school was started in 1830, and a bass viol introduced in 1837. Colored people, twenty- four of whom at one time were mem- bers, sat in the northeast gallery and partook of the Lord's Supper last, by themselves. Because of this distinction, .Frederick Douglass, soon after arriving in New Bedford, abandoned his determination to join Elm Street Church. The colored people had Timothy Dyer for class leader, who also taught them to read and write. In 1835 an anti-slavery lecture was given in the church. In 1840 anti-slavery prayer meetings were held. Such were the beginnings of New Bed- ford Methodism in the Elm Street Church, from which were colonized Fourth Street in 1831, and Pleasant Street in 1843. In 1858 the Elm Street Society laid the corner-stone of the present imposing edifice on the corner of County and Elm Streets, now known SOUVENIR HISTORY. 129 as the County Street Church, which was dedicated May 5, 1859. This is of brick, of handsome design, 65x100 feet, and cost nearly $50,000,. at a time when labor and materials were very low. A considerable portion of the funds was advanced by a Building Association formed for the purpose by the following official members of the church : Ben- jamin Pitman, Edmund Anthony, George G.Gifford, Ambrose Vincent,. William Hammond, Caleb L. Ellis, George W. Howland, Benjamin C. Ward, Thomas West, Perez Jenkins, Alanson Gammons and Shipley W. Bumpus, some of whom made great sacrifices to forward the enter- prise. Rev. Mark Trafton, D. D., was the pastor when the society REV. J. F. COOPER. MRS. J. F. COOPER. removed to its new home, and it at once took a commanding position in the social and religious life of the city. By the arduous labors of Rev. D. P. Leavitt, pastor in 1868-71, and further sacrifices on the part of the people, all remaining indebtedness was cleared off and the property formally transferred to the trustees. There is also a parson- age fund, the gift of the late George W. Howland. The location has proved excellent, and with the present growth of the city, the church is making notable gains in membership. Death has removed many of its venerable figures, but the society is assum- ing more of a popular character, while some of the leading business and professional men of the city are counted among its members and attendants. Its usefulness seems assured, with the favor of God, for many years. Its organization for charitable and social work is excel- lent. Its list of pastors includes Upham, Wise, Trafton, McChesney, Kimball, Townsend, Crafts, Canoll, Benton and other notable names. Rev. C. W. Holden, after a successful five years' pastorate with 130 SOUVENIR HISTORY. this church, married one of its most popular young women, Miss Elizabeth Eddy, daughter of Hon. George M. Eddy. 1820-21. Jesse Fillmore 1822-23. Solomon Sias 1824. Ephraim Kirby 1825. Frederick Upham 1826-27. Jacob Sanborn 1828. 1829-30. 1831-32. 1833- 1834-35- REV. A. WOODARD. Local Preacher. Asa Kent Timothy Merritt Daniel Webb Daniel Fillmore Thomas C. Pierce PASTORS. 1836-37. 1838-39. 1840-41. 1842-43. 1844. 1845-46 1847-48. 1849-50. 1851-52- 1853- I854-55- 1856. 1857-58- 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-64. 1865-67. 1868-70. 1871-73. 1874. 1875-76. 1877-78. 1879-80. 1881. 1882-84. 1885-87. 1888-89. 1890-94. 1895 Shipley W. Wilson Isaac Bonney Joel Knight John Lovejoy Azariah B. Wheeler David Patten, Jr. James D. Butler Robert M. Hatfield Daniel Wise E. T. Fletcher William T. Harlow John Cooper Henry S. White Mark Trafton William S. Studley Mark Trafton R. W. Humphriss Dudley P. Leavitt Ensign McChesney Luther T. Townsend Wilbur F. Crafts William F. Whitcher Watson L. Phillips Edward D. Towle Henry D. Kimball S. Olin Benton Angelo Canoll C. W. Holden J. F. Cooper PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees James Taylor, Pres. ; George S. Perry, Sec'y. ; Benjamin Anthony, Treas. ; George M. Eddy, Savory C. Hathaway, Mark T. Vincent, Adoniram J. Rice, Joseph B. Wade, William T. Laughlin. Stewards Savory C. Hathaway (Pres.), George M. Eddy (R. S. and Treas.), James Taylor (D. S.), Francis A. Butts, Jr., Joseph B. Wade, Robert G. Bennett, Arthur L. Blackmer, Francis N. Howes, William T. Laughlin, Robert Burgess, Robert F. Raymond, M. F. Lewis, H. G. Bassett. Sunday School Superintendent, George W. Burgess; Assistant Superintendents, Mrs. Joseph R. Slocum, Mrs. Marshall F. Lewis, Clara S. Vincent; Secretary, Lillias M. Bennett; Assistant, Mrs. J. F. Cooper; Treasurer, Mrs. G. T. Hardwick; Assistant, Mrs. C. W. Cog- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 13! geshall; Librarian, Edwin Chopson; Assistants, C. F. Corson, G. W. Merrow, J. E. Balloch, Bessie P. Peirce, Mary B. Hathaway, Annie R. Forrest. Epworth League President, Francis N. Howes; First Vice-Presi- dent, James E. Balloch; Second Vice-President, Edith May Weaver; Third Vice-President, Alice G. Anthony; Fourth Vice-President, Ida M. Lewis; Secretary, M. Annie Wilde; Treasurer, Simeon E. Leavitt; Superintendent Junior League, Mrs. Francis K. Allen. FOURTH STREET CHURCH, NEW BEDFORD, MASS. This was the first Methodist Society to be formed of members who withdrew from the old Elm Street Church, the original home of Meth- odism in this city. In 1831 a chapel was erected for the accommoda- tion of the Fourth Street people, which was formally dedicated Febru- ary 4, 1832. During the years 1831 and '32 Rev. Asa Kent served this new charge as pastor. At the Conference of 1832 Revs. A. D. Sargent and Daniel Webb were ap- pointed to serve conjoint- ly both Elm Street and Fourth Street charges. The separation which took place in 1843 was e ^~ fected by mutual consent, and Fourth Street became thenceforward a distinct church, under the pastoral care of Rev. A. U. Swiner- ton, who remained with it two years. Although the church contracted a debt of $6,000 during Mr. Swinerton's pastorate, its spiritual life had been most successful, and when he left 76 new names had been added to the membership. A remarkable pastorate was that of Rev. Moses Chace, which began in 1850. In November, 1851, he, with six others, purchased what is now the Allen Street M. E. Church, and a new society with members of the Fourth Street Church, was formed. This was considered an FOURTH STREET CHURCH. 132 SOUVENIR HISTORY. unwise step by some, as the gradual exodus of members who lived nearer the Allen Street Church, reduced the membership of the Fourth Street Church very materially, so that in 1852 Fourth Street had only REV. W. E. KUGLER. MRS. W. E. KUGLER. 191 members and 18 probationers, and in 1856, the membership was still further reduced to 176 and 7 probationers. During the pastorate of Rev. S. F. Upham in 1860, however, the membership again in- JESSE LAW. Sunday School Superintendent. A. H. BURT. Epworth League President. creased, and through his labors the church was enlarged and remod- eled to its present proportions, at a cost of $6,300. This practically new structure was opened and re-dedicated in SOUVENIR HISTORY. 133 Pebruary, 1861, the Rev. L. D. Barrows delivering the dedicatory dis- course. Another important epoch in the history of Fourth Street Church occurred in 1866, the centennial anniversary of Methodism in America. This centennial year was observed and commemorated by the Fourth Street people by an offering of $2,400 to free their church from debt, incurred when the improve- ments were made. Again, in 1881, during the ministry of Rev. A. Mc- Cord, an additional $2,300 were raised, and the church property was thoroughly repaired and re- painted. But little of special or general interest has occurred in connection with the subsequent his- tory of this church. Like most other churches, she has had her ups and downs. But at the date of this publication she is up, and con- tinues to do a blessed work in this city. The people of this church are very loyal, and it yet possesses many faithful workers. Special mention ought to be made of the noble self-sacrificing band of women who have ever been an important influence in the life and work of this society. Special mention ought also to be made of Rev. B. F. Simon's pastorate. He came to this church under most discouraging circum- stances; but through his influence the people were rallied and inspired, -and after five years' pastorate the longest in its history he left the church much stronger and more prosperous than he found it. PASTORS. L. B. BATES. President Board of Trustees. 1831-32. Asa Kent 1846. 1832. A. D. Sargent 1847-48. 1832. Daniel Webb * 1849. 1 833-34- A. U. Swinerton 1850-51. 1835. Sanford Benton 1852. 1 8 36-37. Phineas Crandall 1853-54. 1838. Warren Emerson J^SS'S^. 1839. Daniel Webb 1857. 1840. W. S. Campbell 1858-59. 1841. George F. Pool 1 860-61. 1842-43. A. U. Swinerton 1862. 1844. Isaac House 1863-64. 1845. Daniel Webb (supplied) 1865. Paul Townsend Daniel Fillmore W. A. Richards Moses Chase Richard Livesey James Mather George M. Carpenter Henry Baylies J. T. Benton S. F. Upham N. Bemis E. H. Hatfield Joseph Marsh (supplied) 134 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1866. Wm. H. Jones 1878-81. Asa N. Bodfish 1867-68. E. S. Stanley 1881-84. A. McCord 1869-70. Samuel A. Winsor 1884-86. H. B. Cady 1871-72. Frederic Upham 1887-89. A. P. Palmer 1873. Charles Ryder 1890-91. W. H. Allen 1873-75. Charles Morgan 1892-96. B. F. Simon 1875-77. R. W. C. Farnsworth 1897 W. E. Kugler PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Lot B. Bates, Horace Tilden, C. H. Gifford, George A. Poole, G. G. Stiles. Stewards Lot B. Bates (R. S.), James H. Russell (D. S.), C. H. Gifford, Jesse Law, A. W. Bosworth, Arthur H. Chase, Arthur Pat- terson, Mrs. Lydia Tilden, Mrs. C. G. Winslow, Mrs. Mary G. Bright- man, Mrs. Jane L. Poole, Horace Tilden. Sunday School Superintendent, Jesse Law. Epworth League President, A. H. Burt; First Vice-President, Miss Annie L. Hinckley; Second Vice-President, Mrs. C. H. Gifford; Third Vice-President, Miss Caroline N. Tilden; Fourth Vice-Presi- dent, Miss Emily B. Johnson; Secretary, Miss Agnes B. Nixon; Treas- urer, Mrs. A. M. Church. PLEASANT STREET M.E. CHURCH, NEW BEDFORD, MASS. ^c j|c ^c In the year 1844 the Methodists in the northern part of the city thought there ought to be a church in their section. Accordingly a detachment of members from the old Elm Street Church organized PLEASANT STREET CHURCH. PLEASANT STREET CHURCH. (As it appears to-day.) Pleasant Street Church. Rev. John Livesey was the first pastor. During his pastorate the church grew and prospered greatly. Samuel C. Brown, the third pastor, remained but three months on account of ill health. During the pastorate of Rev. Jonathan Cady (i849-'5o) the pres- ent church was built. It was dedicated in July, 1849. The sermon of the occasion was preached by Rev. C. K. True of Boston. The pastorate of E. B. Bradford. (1855) was a great revival year. Many were added to the church. The great religious awakening of 1857 took place during the pastorate of Rev. John Howson, and many were added to the church. Next followed the happy pastorate of the "sunny-tempered and sweet-spirited" Charles Nason (1858). Rev. William McDonald followed. His pastorate was also a very successful one. In 1866 Rev. L. B. Bates (now of the New England Conference) was one of the most successful pastors in the history of the church. 136 SOUVENIR HISTORY. On watch night, 1866, divine services were begun which were con- tinued for 105 nights, resulting in 500 conversions several of whom joined other churches; but 415 joined Pleasant Street Church. This GROUP OF LADIES AID SOCIETY. blessed revival lifted this church to first rank in the Conference. The Sunday school numbered 1,000 at that time, and seven nationalities B. FRANK PENNEY. Sunday School Superintendent. ROBERT WATERSON. Epworth League President. were represented. $9,000 was also raised and spent on repairs during this pastorate. SOU V EN 1 R HISTORY. Rev. Joel E. Hawkins followed Mr. Bates. He found a great church under his care. His pastorate proved a successful one in continuing the work begun by his predecessor. He made 3,000 calls during the three years. Con- versions continued all through his pastorate. Rev. W. T. Worth was pas- tor in 1872. This, too, was a highly successful one. The able pastorate of A. E. Drew (1883-85) was blessed many ways. In 1888 Rev. M. S. Kaufman became pastor. With his usual enthusiasm and faithful work this church took on new life and hope. Large revivals blessed each of his three years' labors. An old mort- gage that had hung over the church ever since it had been erected, and on which the church had paid $14,000 interest, was raised, and burned in the presence of a great congregation. It was a glorious hour for this church. The pastorates of Dr. A. Cameron, Dr. C. E. Harris, as well as that of the present pastor, Rev. Eben Tirrell, have been marked by able sermons. In pulpit ability no church in New Bedford has ex- celled, if equalled it, during the past ten years. Pleasant Street has long been famous as a working church. Many able and faithful laymen have labored here, and her prospect for the future is radiant with hope. PLEASANT STREET PARSONAGE. PASTORS. 1844-45. John Livesey 1864-65. 1846. ' Samuel Beedle 1866-68. 1847. S. C. Brown 1869-71. 1847-48. Charles H. Titus 1872-73. 1849-50. Jonathan Cady 1875-77. 1851. Robert Hobart 1878-80. 1852-53. Horace C. Atwater 1881-82. 1854. Frederick Upham 1883-85. 1855. E. B. Bradford 1886-87. 1856-58. John Howson 1888-90. 1859-60. Charles Nason 1891-93. 1861-62. William McDonald 1894-95. 1863. William Farrington 1896 N. P. Philbrook L. B. Bates Joel E. Hawkins W. T. Worth T. R. Greene J. W. Malcolm Edgar F. Clark A. E. Drew Henry D. Robinson M. S. Kaufman A. Cameron C. E. Harris Eben Tirrell SOUVENIR HISTORY. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Samuel S. Paine, Seth C. Caldwell, George W. Paine, James N. Parker, William Walker, Herbert K. Haskins, John Allen, Stephen Shepherd, David Small. Stewards George W. Paine, Samuel S. Perry, B. Frank Penney, Frederick Mickell, Weston C. Vaughan, Jr., Clara L. Tompkins, Will- iam Hindle, Clara J. Stratton, Lewis Small, Arthur D. Swift, Paul Rowland, Eben Hirst, John Allen. Class Leaders Samuel Paine, William Walker, Stephen Shepherd, David Small, George Paine, Robert Waterson, Alma Paine, Joseph Jennison, Edwin Jones. Sunday School Superintendent, B. Frank Penney ; Assistant Sup- erintendent, Eben Hirst; Treasurer, Henry W. Swift; Secretary, Anna E. Jennison; Assistant Secretary, Helen W. Hawes; Librarian, J. B. Tompkins, Jr. Teachers Edwin Jones, George W. Paine, Mrs. Sarah Paine, Mrs. Annie Deane, Mrs. Mary Lilly, William Walker, David S. Small, Myra Jennison, Clara Tompkins, William Hall, Grace Bailey, Frederick A. Mickell, Mrs. Isabel McFarlin, Mrs. Augustus Buchell, William Hawes, George C. Huddy, Eben Hirst, Stephen H. Shepherd, Sylvia Hillman, Julia Smith, Mrs. Florence Ellis, Mellie Harding, Robert Waterson, Mrs. Esther Walker, Charles E. Vaughan, Mrs. Charles E. Vaughan, Lillie Jones, Ella T. Bassett, Lizzie E. Omey, Mrs. S. S. Paine, Paul Howland, Jr., Frank Wilcox, John Allen, Carrie Ryder, Clara Stratton. Epworth League, Chap. No. 651 President, Robert Waterson; First Vice-President, William Hall, Jr.; Second Vice-President, Mrs. Robert Waterson; Third Vice-President, John Allen; Fourth Vice- President, Mrs. J. O. Coffin; Secretary, Lena Donneaud; Treasurer, Charles E. Vaughan. FIRST PORTUGUESE M. E. CHURCH, NEW BEDFORD. This Portuguese Mission is the First Portuguese M. E. Church in America. For several years a few converted Portuguese, some of whom were members of the Allen Street Methodist Episcopal Church, had been thinking of, and praying for, the establishment of mission work among their countrymen in this city. Their earnest Christian zeal awakened in others an interest in their people. In the summer of 1889 Rev. Walter Ela, Presiding Elder, and Rev. J. I. Bartholo- mew, pastor of Allen Street Church, in consultation concerning the needs of this people, of whom there were about five thousand in the REV. A. RIBEIRO. MRS. A. RIBEIRO. city, were convinced that mission work should be commenced among them as soon as a man could be found to carry it on, and funds could be provided to support it. Mr. Bartholomew was requested to make inquiries among the Portuguese for a suitable man to commence the work, and in con- versation with Victor Sequeira, one of those most interested in this enterprise, he learned that he, Sequeira, was in correspondence with some Protestant Portuguese in Jacksonville, 111. Through this cor- respondence he learned of a young man, Joseph I. Almeida, who was doing evangelistic work there, whose services it was thought could be obtained. Shortly after this, the matter of a Portuguese mission was brought before the Methodist Social Union of New Bedford and vicin- ity, and Mr. Sequeira made a statement to the Union of the numbers and religious condition of his countrymen in the city. This awakened so much interest that arrangements were made at once for soliciting contributions, and the responses were so generous that the Presiding 140 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Elder felt warranted in undertaking the work, the more so as it had the approval of Presiding Bishop Ninde at the Conference, and of Dr. Leonard, one of the Missionary secretaries. Accordingly Mr. Al- meida was engaged. He arrived in New Bedford, May 16, 1890, and held his first meeting in the home of Mrs. Fernandes, No. 2 Bab- bitt Street, Sunday, May 18. Cottage meetings were held till June 15, when a store, No. 475 South Water Street, having been rented and fitted up for this purpose, meetings were opened there. At first large crowds gathered about the door and the room was well filled, some with real interest in the meetings, some from curiosity, and some for the purpose of disturbing the meetings. On several occasions stones were thrown at the building, and considerable disturbance was created, but notwithstanding this, the Spirit of the Lord reached the hearts of some of the people, and within a few weeks several of them were converted, and the work continued to prosper. On November 9th, six Portuguese were received on probation in the Allen Street M. E. Church. On June I, 1891, the mission was transferred from Water Street to a store room, No. 84 Potomska Street, which was thought to be a more desirable location. On June 21, 1891, the mis- sion was organized as a church by the Presiding Elder, Rev. Walter Ela, with eleven members and eight probationers, these all coming by letter from Allen Street Church, five of them having been received into full membership that morning, and nine having been baptized by Mr. Bartholomew. In the afternoon, after a sermon by the Presiding Elder, the letters as above mentioned, were read, and the persons were recognized as a church. Mr. Almeida having been previously licensed as a local preacher by Allen Street Quarterly Conference, was ap- pointed preacher in charge. The Sacrament of the Lord's Supper was then administered, Mr. Bartholomew assisting. The Presid- ing Elder then, in the presence of the church, organized the Quarterly Conference. The church took the name of "First Portuguese Methodist Episcopal Church." The General Missionary Committee, at its meeting in Boston, in November, 1890, adopted the mission, and made an appropriation for its support. When Mr. Almeida left on May 31, 1892, after seven months, Mr. George B. Nind, who had been in Brazil for nine years, came to take the work. Mr. Nind is an American, and did not speak the Portuguese language quite so well as one of their own countrymen; however, the work moved along slowly, with occasional additions, steadily gaining in the confidence and respect of the city. Mr. Nind left in April, 1896, when A. Ribeiro was appointed pastor. Mr. Ribeiro was at that time studying in East Greenwich Academy, learn- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 141 ing the English language. He has endeavored to push the work in various ways, especially by having additional meetings on Sunday, and children's classes, etc. The meetings are well attended, and the people seem to enjoy them. The year 1896 was a trying time for this church, but it only drove the faithful few to their knees, and as a result, at Christmas time a great revival broke out, and in a short time sixty were added to the church, many of them young men. May God touch the hearts of the American Christians to help build a proper house for God's worship. That is the one thing needed at present. The people among whom we work were brought up in a country where they have proper places to worship, and think a great deal of the place. They will attend the religious services better when a new church building has been erected. May it soon be realized! M. E. CHURCH, NORTH DIGHTON, MASS. The first veritable fact concerning the introduction of Methodism in North Dighton is, that Israel Anthony, a Methodist, came to North Dighton in 1814 as an overseer in the Mt. Hope mill. He immediately interested himself in the moral and religious welfare of the place. Through his influence Methodist preaching was occasionally had. During the latter part of 1815 or early in 1816 a great revival began as a result of the preaching, and under the direction of the Rev. Or- lando Hinds, who was associated with Francis Dane on the "Provi- dence and A-lansfield" circuit, North Dighton being included. The first class was formed of the fruits of this revival. Very meagre data is at hand concerning the work for several years following. The first authentic record of the church 1 is a class paper which was preserved until recently, but now lost. It was dated Wellington, July 31, 1823; the north part of Dighton having been incorporated in 1814 as the town of Wellington. Twenty-six members were enrolled in the class. Abiather White was the class leader. Lorenzo Dow visited NORTH DIGHTON CHURCH. 142 SOUVENIR HISTORY. North Dighton about this time and preached twice on a certain Sab- bath. The class was sustained and Methodist doctrines preached dur- ing the successive years, but not until 1830 did North Dighton enjoy the service of a stationed preacher, Rev. John D. Baldwin having the honor of being the first appointee. The work prospered under his leadership, and during this year the need of a church building was so urgently felt that the work of building was begun under the leadership of Abiather White, the class leader. In 1831 "Father" Dane and the Rev. H. Walden were on the new circuit "Somerset and Dighton." The new church was formally dedicated to Christian worship on Wednesday, July 13, 1831. The Rev. Lewis Bates of Bristol, R. I. (better Known as Father Bates), preached the dedicatory sermon from Romans i, 16: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ." The first church stood upon the large rock, not far distant from the present church. The financial account, kept this year for the first time, apparently, shows that including $10 paid to the Somerset preacher, and $26.28 as "pri- vate presents to F. Dane," only $157.08 was raised for the pastor and "for the P. Elder's table Ex- pense $9.21"! No wonder that some of the girls employed in the mills felt moved to purchase a new suit of clothes to replace "Father" Dane's threadbare garments. In 1837 North Dighton became an independent charge. Rev. John Bayley was appointed pastor. From this date (1837) to the pres- ent time a complete record of pastoral service has been preserved. In 1847 tne parsonage was built. Among those converted this year were Josiah R. Talbot and Mary (Pilkington) Dunlap, who are still active members in the church. Rev. William Cone was the first pastor to occupy the parsonage. The work of grace continued this year, and in July, 1848, a young man about 17 years old, then employed as a clerk in Mr. Almy's store, was soundly converted. If the faithful pastor had never seen but this one young man converted during his entire ministry, he would have had abundant cause for rejoicing. Neither he nor any of the church, however, could then have realized what mighty results were to follow from that one step of the young "Charlie" Payne. REV. GEO. SISSON. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 143 On January 6th, 1850, Charles H. Payne was granted a license as a local preacher. Rev. L. B. Bates, son of "Father" Bates, became pastor in 1861. "During these two years (1861-62), thirty-nine who were members of the church or Sunday school enlisted as soldiers in the Union army." At the second Quarterly Conference, held July ist, 1864, Otis H. Bates was licensed as a local preacher. Mr. Bates' license was re- newed for many years and he had, to the end of his earthly life, an enviable reputation as a citizen, as a preacher, and as a Christian. In 1866 the present church edifice was completed (the old church having become "too narrow"), Rev. Mark Trafton, D. D., preaching the dedicatory sermon, October n. Text: ist Timothy, i, 5. During the pastorate of T. Snowdon Thomas, 1868, Lewis Bates Codding, now a member of our Conference, was converted. Edwin F. Jones was pastor in 1871, and organized, chiefly from among those converted that year, the North Dighton Praying Band. Charles F. Fales, still an active member and an official in the church, led the singing. This "Band" of young men was instrumental in leading many to Christ and the church. In 1874, during the pastorate of Rev. G. W. Ballou, John McVay, now a member of the Conference, was converted. The church was renovated thoroughly in 1884, Martin T. Braley, who had been converted and licensed to preach November 22, 1884, took part in the re-opening exercises held January n and 12, 1885, during the popular pastorate of G. H. Bates. Mr. Brayley is now a member of the Conference, stationed at Jewett City, Conn. In April, 1885, Frank P. Parkin was appointed to North Dighton. He remained three years (the full term at that time). It was during this pastorate that the church passed through its most trying ordeal. We quote from Parkin's History of North Dighton Church: "Early in October, the now historic labor troubles, which ex- tended throughout the country during 1885-86, broke upon North Dighton. For four memorable months the great strike continued in the Dighton Furnace Co., and the town, as well as the church, passed through the most trying and critical period in their history. For a time the church was threatened with disruption. Churches in Wheel- ing, W. Va., and other places, from almost precisely similar causes, were nearly destroyed; but, by the blessing of God upon the means employed, that calamity was fortunately averted here. Notwith- standing the adverse circumstances special services were held, and a number of very clear conversions occurred. The pastor will ever re- member with deep gratitude the many expressions of sympathy, and the prayerful aid which he received in his efforts to preserve the unity of the church during this most critical hour in her history." 144 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Many reverses have come to this church in recent years. A large number of the leading business men, who were also official members in the church, have either been removed by death, or have found homes and business elsewhere. In the official board of the First Church, Taunton, may be found to-day, at least four members who were formerly connected with this church. The Dighton M. E. Church is a direct offspring from this church. During- the four years service of Rev. C. H. Ewer, 1892-95,. twenty-five members of the church passed on to their reward. The business interests of the place have waned, and many Roman Catholics and other non-Methodists have come in to take places for- merly filled by Methodists. Still North Dighton Church is by no means an undesirable ap- pointment, the church having- a membership of 157, and the Sunday school an enrollment of 248 members. 1837. 1838. 1839. 1840-41. 1842. 1843- 1844. 1845. 1846. 1847-48. 1849. 1850. 1851-52- 1853- I854-55- 1856. J857. 1858-59. PASTORS. John Bay ley 1860. David Culver 1861-62. Ephraim Capen 1863-64. Bryan Morse 1865-67. George H. Winchester 1868. Charles A. Carter 1869-70. Edward A. Lyon 1871. Abel Gardner 1872-74. Richard Donkersley 1875-76. William Cone 1877. Franklin Gavitt 1878-79. W. H. Richards 1 880-81. Asa N. Bodfish 1882-84. Lawton Cady 1885-87. Carlos Banning 1888-89. Nathaniel Bemis 1890-91. Ormando N. Brooks 1892-95. Henry H. Smith 1896 John N. Collier Lewis B. Bates Erastus Benton Asa N. Bodfish T. Snowdon Thomas W. H. Stetson Edwin F. Jones George W. Ballou George H. Bates J. W. Malcolm George W. Wright George H. Lamson George H. Bates Frank P. Parkin C. E. Brightman W. E. Kugler C. H. Ewer George A. Sisson PRESENT OFFICIARY. J. R. Talbot, Joseph Philbrick, William B. Hathaway, Frank K. Chase, William L. White, Charles F. Ingalls, Charles H. Evans, Sr., George W. Marston, Charles H. Evans, Jr., N. H. Rose, Charles F. Fales, Eugene R. Rose, George W. Hunt, John H. Thornley, Mrs. Alice M. Hathaway, Mrs. Ida V. Codding, Mrs. Nettie A. Chase, Mrs. Emma A. Rose. Sunday School Superintendent, Eugene F. Rose ; Assistant Super- intendent, Mrs. Alice M. Hathawav; Secretary, Miss Emma White; Treasurer, Miss Anne Brownell; Librarian, N. H. Rose. Epzi'orth League President. Pastor; First Vice-President, Emma White; Second Vice-President. Ida White; Third Vice-President, Mrs. Alice M. Hathaway; Fourth Vice-President, Miss Maude Rose; Sec- retary, Miss Bertha Walsh ; Treasurer, Ralph M. Strange. p ffi r > > I g c n c M. E. CHURCH, NORTH TISBURY, MASS. Very early in the century the Methodist itinerants reached Mar- tha's Vineyard, and the people of North Shore enjoyed the privileges thus afforded. In 1820 a class was organized by Eleazer Steele, and since that date Methodism has been repre- sented, and her preachers have found a home among this people. The school house or the homes of the people were depended upon for a place of worship until 1846, when Rev. A. B. Wheeler secured the necessary funds for a chapel. This was built during the same year, and dedicated by appropriate exercises, Rev. Daniel Wise com- ing from Nantucket to preach the sermon. Until 1857 the people of this charge were dependent upon the preachers of Vineyard Haven or Chilmark for pulpit supply. In that year Mr. McKinstry was ap- pointed, and the place has since enjoyed regular preaching. The need of a parsonage was greatly felt for several years. After much sacrifice by the people a sufficient sum was subscribed to justify a beginning, and in 1869 the present house was built. W. T. Miller was somewhat rewarded for his zeal in the enterprise by being privileged to be its first occupant. Prosperity continued to smile upon the labors of this people during the pastorate of Charles Stokes. An organ was purchased at this time, and at a meeting held by the trustees steps were taken to enlarge the church and erect a belfry. Mr. Stokes was succeeded by T. B. Gurney in 1876. He entered into the work of enlargement with a will. During the year the work was completed. The desk from which the gospel is proclaimed to this REV. c. w. RUOFF. NORTH TISBURY CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. people was made and presented to the church by Mr. Gurney at this time. Until 1 88 1 the belfry was without an occupant, but the ladies and young people worked together, and the result of their work was made manifest during this year by the purchase of a $170 bell. While Mr. Fish ministered to this people (1883-85), the interior of the church was repaired. Mr. Wood labored (1888-90), and the church was shingled and painted. During the present pastorate much has been done towards improv- ing both the church and parsonage property. The spiritual affairs of the charge would require an account of each pastorate, as each pastor has accomplished good, and most have witnessed the conversion of souls and additions to the church. It is pleasant to remark, in this connection, that the \vriter of this article has heard some word of appreciation concerning every pastor since the appointment of Mr. McKinstry in 1857. PASTORS. 1857. L. C. McKinstry 1873. i85 8 -59- Joseph Hunt 1874-75. 1860. Benjamin Haines 1876-77. 1861-62. Jason Gill 1878. 1863. Isaac B. Forbes 1879. 1864-65. George Peirson 1866. * David Cook and G. A. 1880-82. Silfverston 1883-85. 1867-68. James Dixon 1886-87. 1869-70. William T. Miller 1888-90. 1871. Lawton Cady, W. Cot- 1891-93. tie and R. F. Macy 1894. 1872. R. F. Macy and C. G. 1895. Downing 1896 Moses Brown Charles Stokes T. B. Gurney A. B. Bessey E. H. Hatfield and J. B. Hamblin J. B. Washburn J. S. Fish J. B. Washburn James A. W T ood C. P. Flanders F. D. Sargent Walter A. Gardner Chauncev W. Ruoff PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees President, Edward Cottle; Secretary, William Pease; Hiram Luce, H. Nelson Luce, O. S. Daggett. StezvardsTLdward Cottle (R. S.), William L. Pease, Hiram Luce, H. Nelson Luce, Obed S. Daggett, Helen M. Luce, Maria R. Daggett. Sunday School Superintendent, Anson M. Luce; Assistant Su- perintendent, Edward Cottle; Treasurer, Helen M. Luce; Organist, Maud Washburn. Teachers, C. W. Ruoff, Maria R. Daggett, J. F. Luce, Mrs. Alice Look, Mrs. H. M. Luce. UNION CHURCH, NORTH TRURO, MASS. In the closing years of the last century Methodist itinerants came sowing the seed. North Truro, then known as Pond Village, was in- cluded in the circuit with Provincetown and Truro Center. There is no record of a class being formed till after the great revival of 1821, under Frederick Upham and others, when Kbenezer Atkins was appointed class leader, with a class of over twenty members. This was in 1822. After a few years the members at North Truro joined those at Truro Centre, in building a meet- ing-house at the latter place. This remained the church home of both societies for about fourteen years. The ministers stationed at Truro Centre, South Truro and a teacher in Provincetown, who afterwards became the first pastor in North Truro, held preaching services at private houses and at the school house. About 1834 a Sabbath school was organized, each mem- ber being taxed. In 1840 the Methodists of North Truro withdrew from the church at the Centre, and united with the Congregationalists of the north part of the town in building the present Union Church. The consti- tution provided that the pulpit should be supplied by Congregational and Methodist ministers alternately. The Methodist Sabbath school was changed to a Union school. The missionary collection is divided between the missionary societies of the two denominations. The church was built entirely by local workmen. During the pastorate of Isaac Sherman, extensive improvements were made, the building being raised and a vestry placed under it at an expense of $1,800. Credit for the success of the undertaking is universally given to Mr. Sherman. His picture adorns the vestry wall behind the desk. A parsonage and lot were purchased for $500 during Benjamin K. Bosworth's pastorate. Revivals leaving permanent results occurred during John D. King's and Isaac Sherman's pastorates. NORTH TRURO CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 149 PASTORS. With denomination to which they C, Congregationalist; A, Advent. 1840-41. Seth H. Beals, M 1842. Benjamin M. South- worth (died after three months. 1842-44. Osborn Myrick, C 1845-46. John D. King, M 1847-48. Arnold Adams, M 1849. Thomas Smith, A; three months, C 1849-50. George W. Rogers, M 1851-53. Samuel J. M. Lord, C 1855. Franklin Sears, M; six months 1856-58. Job Cushman, C 1859. Abram Holway, M; six months 1860. Malcolm D. Herrick, M 1861-62. 1863-65. 1866-68. 1869-70. 1871-72. 1873- 1874-77. 1878-81. 1882-83. 1884-86. 1887. 1888-90. 1891-92. I893-95- 1896 belong: M, Methodist; Joseph A. Bartlett, M Philander Bates, C Charles Stokes, M Jacob W. Price, M H. W. S. Packard, M Joel Martin, M Isaac Sherman, M Charles Morgan, M then C Samuel Morrison, C Benj. K. Bosworth, M Frederic A. Crafts, M C. P. Flanders, M John E. Duxbury, M Charles A. Purdy, M Arthur H. Scudder, M REV. A. H. SCUDDER. MRS. A. H. SCUDDER. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stewards Mrs. Mary M. Fisher, John L. Rich (D. S.), Mrs. Elizabeth C. M. Button, Mrs. Ida L. Lombard, Mrs. Amelia L. Rich, Mrs. Emma F. Smith, William F. Button. \ Class Leader Mrs Elizabeth C. M. Button. Sunday School Superintendent, Mrs. Sarah F. Smith; Secretary, Mrs. Emma F. Smith; Treasurer, John L. Rich; Librarian, Arthur -Atwood. THE ORLEANS CHURCH. M. E. CHURCH, ORLEANS, MASS. In giving a history of the church, we find that it is difficult to obtain just the right information needed. In the early part of the iCjth century there was organized a Reformed Methodist Church. The date of its organization has long ago passed out of sight. We find a record of the first Sunday school in this church, which was organized on Sunday, August 2, 1827. All trace of this society is lost until 1836, when this Reformed Methodist or- ganization requested the Rev. Mr. Webb to supply them a minister from the Conference. The Confer- ence met in August of the same year, and Rev. T. G. Brown was the man sent to Orleans as the first pas- tor of the M. E. Church proper. Rev. Mr. Brown and wife came to Orleans in September, and organized the M. E. Church. The first sacrament of the Lord's Supper was administered in October, 1836, continued with a four days meeting and thirty-five precious souls found their way out of darkness into light. In 1838 the Rev. Philip Crandon, of sainted memory, was sta- tioned here, and on July I2th, 1838, commenced taking down the old church building, which was purchased by the M. E. Society, and work was begun on the present structure in a new location. The corner- stone of this house of worship was laid August 2ist, 1838. At this time Rev. Mr. Crandon was absent and the Rev. Davis Lathrop of the Baptist Church was invited to come and offer the first prayer in the new Methodist Church building. November 16, 1838, saw the new enterprise completed, and at 10.30 A. M. of the same day it was dedicated to Him who is the author of all grand enterprises. The prayer was offered by Rev. Joel Steele, and the sermon was preached by Rev. F. Upham, Presiding Elder. He selected for the foundation of his remarks John viii, 9-10. For nearly sixty years this society has stood the burden and heat of the day. It was born in an atmosphere of opposition and exists in the same to-day, but this has only tended to preserve and make it useful. The SOUVENIR HISTORY. decline of the fishery industry has crippled it in numbers. On account of no employement here our people are compelled to move elsewhere for a livelihood. Our membership has decreased until it only numbers REV. G. O. THOMPSON. MRS. G. O. THOMPSON. about fifty active members, with a few passive ones. This sketch would not be complete without the mention of Mrs. Sarah E. Doane, daughter of Prince S. and Nancy B. Harding, who MISS FLOSSIE SMITH. Epworth League President. MRS. SARAH E. DOANE. were staunch Methodists, and who were among the first to lay the foundation of our church in this place so many years ago. In the year 1856, under the pastorate of Rev. Mr. Alexander, who conducted one of the most successful revivals ever held in this church, 1 52 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Mrs. Doane with about fifty others started on that long journey that knows no end. Most of this company are now traveling in the Heav- enly country. Mrs. Doane is still with us, and is one of our greatest factors in the light and life of the church. She has just placed in the church a memorial window in honor of her precious sainted father and mother. Long may she live to bless this church and community. The building is now undergoing a thorough repairing and remod- eling. A new tower has been built which is 55 feet high and a 1,200- pound bell placed in the same. Mr. A. O. Smith of Boston and others are preparing memorial windows for the church. When completed it will be one of the coziest little churches on the Cape. What the future of 1ie rbnrch will be we cannot predict. But we know that He who ! tl c 2 CENTENARY M. E. CHURCH, PROVINCETOWN, MASS. In the autumn of the year 1847 some of the prominent members of the only Methodist church in Provincetown were led seriously to consider the matter of a second Methodist church, to be located in the western part of the town, for the better accommodation of many whose residences were in that sec- tion. The Rev. William T. Harlow, Presiding Elder of the District, was consulted, and encouraged the people to carry out their plans. Accordingly, in January of 1848, Freeman Atkins, Samuel Soper and Rums L. Thatcher, in behalf of the new society, purchased an edifice which had been the property and the place of worship of the Universalist Society. In the following March the car- penters were set to work remodel- ing the building, and in six months' time the building- was ready for occupancy. At this time, Septem- ber, 1848, ninety-one members of the Centre withdrew for the purpose of forming the new society. The pastor of this flock was the Rev. Samuel Fox, whose first sermon was based on the text found in the Second Epistle of Paul to the Corin- thians, the thirteenth chapter, the fifth verse: "Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves." Some of the company present on that occasion yet remain among us; others, many others, have gone to the church triumphant. The name which the ' young society adopted and by which it was known for nearly a score of years, was the "Wesley Chapel." In 1865 the project of a new house of worship was discussed by the members of REV. c. E. HARRIS. CENTENARY CHURCH, PROVINCE- TOWN. SOL' I' EN I R HISTORY. 167 Wesley Chapel. The Rev. J. F. Sheffield, at this time pastor of the church, labored hard for the new church and brought the scheme well forward prior to the appointment of his successor. Arrangements for building were perfected, and on June 14, 1866, with the Rev. George W. Bridge as captain of the host, the people went up to the feast of dedication. The sermon on that occasion was preached by the Rev. Jesse T. Peck, D. D., Chancellor of Syracuse University, and in 1872 made a Bishop in the Methodist-Episcopal Church. For a little more than thirty years the Centenary Church has worshipped in this spacious and beautiful edifice. MYRON C. ATWOOD, Treasurer for seventeen years. WALLACE CUTTER, Sunday School Superintendent. PASTORS. 1848. Samuel Fox 1872-73. 1849-50. Azariah B. Wheeler 1874-76. 1851-52. John Livesey, Jr. 1877-79. l8 53~54- Josiah Higgins 1880-81. 1855-56. N. P. Philbrook 1882-83. 1857-58. B. K. Bosworth 1884. 1859-60. J. T. Wright 1885-86. 1861-62. I. Cooper 1887-88. 1863-64. J. F. Sheffield 1889-91. 1865-66. George W. Bridge 1892. 1867. George M. Hamlet? 1893. 1868-69. Shadrach Leader 1894-95. 1870-71. Andrew J. Kenyon 1896 1872. John Livesey William McK. Bray George A. Morse George H. Bates George W. Hunt John H. Allen Warren Applebee George C. King Thomas J. Everett Samuel McBurney A. A. Kidder A. N. Searles George A. Grant Charles E. Harris !68 SOUVENIR HISTORY. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Parish Committee Benjamin H. Dyer, Nathan Young, Fred E. Williams, Seth Smith, Henry T. Chipman, Myrick C. Atwood. Trustees Seth Smith, Nathan Young, Benjamin H. Dyer, B. O. Gross, Andrew T. Williams, L. M. Paine, Stephen F. Atwood, Fred- erick A. H. Gifford, Gushing H. Emery. Stewards Nathan Young, B. O. Gross, Benjamin H. Dyer, Seth Smith, Gushing H. Emery, Alfred J. Emery, Nathaniel W. Ayers, Frederick A. H. Gifford, Stephen F. Atwood, Charles L. Young, William S. Birge, Ella F. Birge, Priscilla B. Young (R. S.), Seth Smith (D. S.), Benjamin H. Dyer. Sunday School Superintendent, Wallace Cutter; Assistant Super- intendent, Alary E. Sparrow; Secretary and Treasurer, Andrew T. Williams; Librarian, Myrick C. Atwood; Assistant Librarians, Fred E. Williams, Louis Allen. Teachers L. N. Paine, James Callaghan, Emily F. Smith, Phebe E. Freeman, Priscilla B. Young, Mary E. Sparrow, Millie F. Chace, Charles E. Harris, Rebecca L. Nickerson, Millie F. Young, Alice Young, Louise Atwood, Clara L. Watson, H. E. Holmes, Louise Ellis. REV. G. M. HAMLEN, D. D., AND HIS WORK. In the fall of 1888 Dr. Hamlen was invited to take the financial agency of Mallalieu Seminary, Kinsey, Alabama, a school which had had a delicate life for five or six years, and at the time of his acceptance was regarded as a sort of forlorn hope. After spending a few months PRES. G. M. HAMLEN AND WIFE. in presenting the work to the people as occasion offered, he went South to visit the work, and in connection with Mrs. Hamlen they .spent some three months there studying the situation. Poverty and illiteracy met them on every hand, but what seemed stranger than these was the insatiate desire on the part of so large a proportion of the people, old and young, to profit by the school privileges offered them. Parents were willing, and in most cases compelled, to make unusual sacrifices that their children could attend school. Most of the students now in school are aided from the "Indigent Students' Fund." Were this larger many more might be in attend- ance. After one year's service as Financial Agent he was unani- mously elected president of the institution, which position he still holds. Under his administration the institution has been freed from -an onerous debt. Several acres of land have been purchased and a large dormitory has been built, in accordance with a plan sent from Cairo, Egypt, by Bishop Mallalieu. This is the largest building in Henry County and gives students who cannot afford to pay five dol- lars a month for board an opportunity to board themselves. There have been enrolled 180 students during the year. A special act of legislature protects the village from the saloon for a radius of two miles. Conversions occur all through the year. Dr. Hamlen is now seeking an endowment fund. Fifty thousand dollars would put this institution beyond any fear of failure (finan- cially), and the invitation could be extended to all our poor brethren -.in white, "Send in your children." CENTRE M. E. CHURCH, PROVINCETOWN, MASS. The spacious and beautiful harbor of Provincetown has been known to civilization since the landing of the Pilgrim Fathers here in the bleak November of 1620, and their tarry of a month before going to Plymouth for their final settlement. Next to the Mayflower, the most important vessel which has found shelter in these hospitable waters is that of Captain William Humbert. He was on his way from New York to St. John, New Brunswick. Adverse winds made the voyage hard and perilous, and wind-bound he sought refuge here. He was a local preacher, the first Methodist to visit Provincetown, where, in 1793, he proclaimed our distinctive doctrines. The seed soon took root and within two years the first house of worship was erected, the society duly organized and Provincetown established as one of the stations on the Sand- wich district. The name ap- CENTRE CHURCH, PROVINCETOWN. pears for the first time in the list of appointments at the Conference held in New London, Conn., July 15, 1795- George Cannon was the first circuit preacher, and Jesse Lee the first presiding elder. While Methodist doctrine was taking firm hold upon the hearts of the people, it was also stirring up bitter opposition. The town, by formal vote in a pub- lic meeting, declared that the Methodists should not have a house of worship within its limits. Deeming their rights invaded, the heroic band proceeded to build. But persecution continued for 30 years, so that it was far from being safe, not to say respect- able, to be a Methodist. Men piled up fish heads on the shore for boys CENTRE CHURCH PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 171 to throw at the Methodists as they went to church. Many a woman crawled on her hands and knees under the fish flakes in order to avoid the insults sure to be heaped upon her. So great were these abuses that at one time some 30 or 40 members of the early church removed in a company to the state of Maine, where they might live in peace and REV. W. P. BUCK. MRS. W. P. BUCK. worship God according to the dictates of their own consciences. As the Puritans fled from religious intolerance in England, so fled these Methodists from the persecutions of the descendants of these Puritans on the very shore of the new world first trod by Pilgrim feet. But these years of trial were not without their triumphs. God added to the church year by year such as were being saved. A large increase in the classes and in the mem- bership and influence of the church soon followed. For years now about three-fourths of the Protestant popula- tion are Methodists. Besides many smaller harvests, powerful revivals occurred under the labors of Messrs. Kibby, Bidwell, Townsend and Young. Its love of music and its gift for song, its power of exhortation and of prayer, have marked the church for years. A good number were added to the church and $3,000 were raised and spent on repairs during the pastorate _* /~i A Oi i T'l D. M. Mc'KAY, of C. A. Stenhouse. The pastorates Sunday School superintendent. 172 SOUVENIR HISTORY. of P. M. Yinton, R. Povey and other earlier pastorates have been generally successful. (Here it ought to be said that the present pastorate has been specially blessed with a gracious revival. Editor.) Its present splendid edifice, the fourth in the history of the church,, was built in 1860-61 and dedicated by Mr. Hatfield. It is an archi- tectural gem, its graceful spire 162 feet in height; it contains 128 pews, seating 900 persons, and cost $22,000. In neatness, conven- ience and elegance, it is one of the finest churches in our Conference. Its centennial was appropriately celebrated in 1895. Paul Townsend John Lovejoy William T. Harlow Elisha B. Bradford Pardon T. Kinney William Livesey Robert McGonegal Merritt P. Alderman Asa N. Bodfish Edward H. Hatfield Josiah T. Benton G. W. Bridge A. P. Aiken C. S. Macreading Charles Young J. H. lames E. F. Clark Angelo Canoll H. H. Martin A. William Seavery W. W. Colburn P. M. Vinton Charles A. Stenhouse Richard Povey Walter P. Buck PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees and Stcivards Joseph Whitcomb, Obadiah Snow, Stephen Mott, Josiah Swift, Byley Lyford, Reuben S. Snow, Silas C. Mott, E. O. Snow, W. K. Nickerson, D. M. McKay, and George Hubbard. Sunday School Superintendent, Daniel M. McKay; First Assist- ant Superintendent, Mrs. M. Emma Smith; Second Assistant Superin- tendent, Rev. E. B. Hinckley; Secretary, Betty D. Rich; Treasurer, Louis M. Snow; Librarian, William A. McKay; Chorister, Obadiah Snow; Pianist, Mrs. Cora G. W. Fuller. PASTORS. 1795- George Cannon 1842-43. 1796. Robert Yallelee 1844-45. 1797. Jacob Ricklow 1846-47. 1798. Smitt Weeks 1848-49. 1799. William Beaucamp 1850-51. 1800. John Merrick 1852-53- 1801. Solomon Langdon I854-55- 1802. Edward Whittle 1856-57- 1803. Allen H. Cobb 1858-59. 1804. Alfred Metcalf 1 860-6 1. 1805. Philip Munger 1862. 1806. Elijah Willard 1863-64. 1807-12. Alexander McLane 1865-66. 1812-24. Epaphras Kibby 1867-68. 1824-25. Shipley W. Willson 1869-71. 1826-27. Leonard Bennett 1872-73. 1828-29. Epaphras Kibby 1874-76. 1830-31. Ebenezer Blake 1877-79. 1832-33. Ephraim Wiley 1 880-8 1. 1834- John E. Risley 1882-83. 1835-36. Frederick Upham 1884-86. 1837-38. Ira M. Bidwell 1887-89. 1839. Ezekiel W. Stickney 1890-92. 1840. Aaron D. Sargent 1893-94. 1841. Samuel W. Coggeshall 1895- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 173 Teachers Mrs. D. A. Small, Mrs. Mary Mclntyre, Airs. Salome C. Havves, Mrs. Thomas S. Taylor, Miss Hannah Verge, Miss Rosilla McKay, Rev. E. B. Hinckley, Mrs. Heman Smith, Mrs. Isaac Lewis, Miss Sarah Hatch, Obadiah Snow, Joseph Whitcomb, Miss Angie Bell, Miss Josephine Johnson, Rev. W. P. Buck, Miss Cora Daggett, Miss Myra C. Burt, Mrs. William Roberts; Mrs. Alice A. H. Young, Superintendent Primary Department; Mrs. A. L. Putnam, Assistant. M. E. CHURCH, SAGAMORE, MASS. Sagamore was formerly "West Sandwich," and the people, in order to attend the Methodist Church, were obliged to go to Sand- wichtown, two miles or more from their homes. But that was at a time when Methodist zeal made the miles seem short and people were willing to travel far to hear Methodist preaching. In 1830, however, it was thought best to erect a church in Saga- more, and Benjamin Burgess, Covell Burgess and Herman Gurney were appointed a building commit- tee, and it was largely due to the financial help of the first-named member of the committee that the entire cost of the church, $3.000, was soon paid. Rev. Frederick N. Upham, D. D., that "Apollo Belvedere" among the early preachers on the Cape, wrote the deed and that deed remains sure and steadfast like "the law of the Medes and Persians, that altereth not." It is a notable fact that at the "church raising" just 100 men were present. The church was large and com- modious, having a gallery and choir-loft, and in those days it was often crowded to overflowing. But during the pastorate of Rev. S. F. Whidden, in 1868, the galleries were taken out and the church remodeled and a new furnace put in at a cost of about $1,400. Mr. Hiram Crowell, though not a church member, and yet like Hiram of Tyre, who helped Solomon build the temple, was the leader in this work. At the present time the people are giving liberal subscriptions for further improvements in the church. THE SAGAMORE CHURCH. SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. Sagamore shared in great revivals that swept over the church in early days. During the pastorates of Rev. H. Mayo, Lewis Bates, James H. Cooley and S. Frank Whidden, there were remarkable re- REV. E. E. PHILLIPS. MRS. E. E. PHILLIPS. vivals. But perhaps the greatest revivals of all was in the forties, when a layman in the Reformed Church, Nathan Howes, came up the Cape and held meetings among the people. There have been REV. J. P. THURSTON, Local Preacher. MRS. GEO. W. STARBUCK, Epworth League President. revivals here under the preaching of other pastors, and also through the efforts of men like Dunbar, Steele and the famous J. N. Maffit, who preached in this church some of his most powerful sermons. SOUVENIR HISTORY. ij- Rev. Joseph Marsh of Sandwich supplied this church many times. Masterful preaching was not without good results. During the pastorate of Rev. J. F. Sheffield, a parsonage was bought at Bournedale once North Sandwich and moved to Saga- more. The whole cost amounted to about $1,600. Rev. F. Gavitt first occupied it in 1866. PASTORS. At first this charge was joined with Sandwich, and the earliest records state: 1836. H. Mayo 1863-64. B. T. Bos worth 1837. Sandwich and Scusset, 1865. John F. Sheffield H. H. Smith 1866. F Gavitt 1838. Samuel Phillips 1867-69. S. Frank Whidden 1839-40. Warren Emerson 1870. ' R. F. Macy 1841-42. E. B. Bradford 1871-72. H. B. Cady 1843. G. F. Pool 1873. Philip Crandon 1844. Franklin Gavitt (then 1874-75. A. N. Bodfish as a separate ap- 1876. Charles E. Walker pointment). 1877. Heflin S. Smith 1845. Thomas Ely 1878-79. Archibald McCord 1846-47. Lewis Bates 1880-81. George H. Butler 1848. Left to be supplied. 1882-83. George H. Lamson 1849. J- D. Butler 1884-85. Robert Clark 1850-51. G. H. Winchester 1886-87. Edward A. Lyon 1852-53. B. L. Sayer 1888. Hugh Copeland J854-55. Thomas D. Blake 1889-90. E. F. Newell I 8s6-57. James B. Washburn 1891-92. M. B. Wilson 1858-59. James H. Cooley 1893-94. William Kirkby 1 860-61. Avell Alton 1895 E. E. Phillips 1862. Thomas D. Sleeper PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Calvin Crowell, William C. Gibbs, L. R. Leavitt, A. T. Rogers, Hiram Crowell, Isaac N. Keith. Stewards Calvin Crowell, William C. Gibbs, L. R. Leavitt, A. T. Rogers, Mrs. M. O. Leavitt, Mrs. H. M. Burgess, Mrs. H. R. Burgess, Mrs. Mary D. Packard, Mrs. George W. Starbuck, Mrs. Sarah P. Battles. Sunday School Superintendent, Pastor; Assistant Superintendent, Rev. J. F. Thurston; Secretary and Treasurer, Mrs. M. O. Leavitt; Librarian, George W. Starbuck. Epivorth League President, Mrs. George W. Starbuck; First Vice-President, Mrs. Albert Holway; Second Vice-President, Miss Cora Thompson; Third Vice-President, Rev. J. F. Thurston; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. Jennie F. Perkins; Secretary, Miss Ada Crowell; Treasurer, Miss Christine Crowell. Local Preacher J. F. Thurston, Bournedale. M. E. CHURCH, SANDWICH, MASS. Methodism in Sandwich is one hundred years old. Although Jesse Lee preached in the town in 1796, it was not until 1797 that the society was formed by Rev. Joshua Hall. The first meeting-house was dedicated October 25, 1828, by Rev. John Lindsey, and the pres- THE SANDWICH CHURCH. ent edifice was dedicated January 7, 1848, by Rev. Abel Stevens. The early history of this old church is almost wholly a history of revivals, notable ones occurring during the pastorates of F. Upham, REV. J. E. BLAKE. MRS. GRACE A. BLAKE. E. B. Bradford, C. H. Payne, W. T. Worth, John Livesey and S. M. Beale. For the last few years business has declined, as it has in most of SOUVENIR HISTORY. 177 the towns of Cape Cod, and Sandwich has lost twenty-five per cent, of her population, yet the church sounds no note of discouragement and shows an increase of membership. THE SANDWICH PARSONAGE. PASTORS. We must remember that for many years Sandwich belonged to a circuit; then there will be no confusion if the same names appear in other sketches beside the same dates. 1797-99. Joshua Hall, Joseph Snelling, Epaphras Kibby, and Reuben Jones Daniel Fiddler Joshua Soule Daniel Fiddler, Solo- mon Langden, Daniel Bachelor, Joseph Snelling, Due Bur- gess and Moses Cur- rier Nathan Ryder and Erastus Otis Thos. Asbury, Nathan Stearns, Joseph Snell- ing Joseph Merrill, Falmouth, was 1823-24. A. O. Sargent and Jon- athan Mayhew Erastus Otis, John Hutchinson and J. N. Maffit 1800. 1801. 1802-5, 1806. 1807-8. 1825. 1809. B. F. Lumbert 1810. Stephen Bailey 1811-12. Aaron Lummins and Levi Nye 1813-14. Stephen Bailey 1815-16. J. W. Hardy, Richard Emory, Benjamin Hoit and Moses Fi- field 1817. Benjamin Hoit and Moses Fifield 1818-19. Rev. Mr. Hazelton Barnstable was add- ed at this time 1820-22. E. T. Taylor. F. Up- ham and Rev. Mr. Brown added to the circuit at this time. F. Upham Falmouth dropped at this time Enoch Bradley and Na- than B. Spanieling F. Upham and Lemuel Harlow 1826-27. 1828. 1829. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1830. F. Upham and R. D. 1851. Esterbrook, assisted 1852. by Joseph Marsh, a 1853-54. talented local preach- 1855-56. er, whose success was 1857. marvellous and who 1858-59. died at an advanced 1 860-61. age, a member be- 1862-63. loved of this church 1864-65. 1831. Joseph Steele 1866-67. 1832. Joseph Steele, C. C. 1868. Noble and Joseph 1869. Marsh 1870-71. l &33- John J. Bliss and J. 1872-74. Litch 1875-76. 1834. George Stone 1877-78. 1835-36. Henry Mayo l %79- 1837. Henry M. Smith 1 880-81. 1838. Samuel Phillips 1882-83. 1839-40. Warren Emerson 1884-86. 1841-42. E. B. Bradford 1887-88. 1843. George F. Pool 1889-90. 1844. Franklin Gavitt 1891-92. 1845-46. Thomas Ely 1893-94. 1847-48. Robert M. Hatfield 1895. 1849-50.- James O. Butler 1896 Micah J. Talbot E. B. Bradford H. W. Houghton B. Otherman C. H. Payne N. P. Philbrook Nathaniel Bemis W. V. Morrison W. T. Worth W. H. Starr Charles Young Andrew J. Kenyon A. W. Paige John Livesey Charles S. Nutter Eben Tirrell, Jr. E. S. Fletcher Silas Sprouls J. Q. Adams S. M. Beale O. A. Farley Robert Clark R. J. Kellogg G. W. Elmer C. N. Hinckley John E. Blake J. S. SMITH, Sunday School Superintendent. H. L. CHIPMAN, Epworth League President. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 179 PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees John S. Smith, P. T. Brown, W. C. Chipman, Benjamin Irwin, F. A. Fisher, I. T. Jones, S. O. Ellis, F. W. Holway. Stewards John S. Smith, P. T. Brown, W. P. Chipman, H. L. Chipman, Benjamin Irwin, F. N. Holway, G. R. Fish, Russell Fish. C. H. Chappnil, C. H. Burgess, C. E. Hoxie, F. M. Tinkham. Class Leaders P. T. Brown, H. L. Chipman. Church Officers Sunday School Superintendent, John S. Smith, Epworth League President, Herbert L. Chipman. M. E. CHURCH, SOMERSET, MASS. The Somerset M. E. Church was born in a sail loft at the head of Burgess' Wharf. There Byron Norse held a protracted meeting in which many were converted. The new converts were organized into a church, and in November, 1842, A. D., a new edifice was dedicated as their church home. The first years were years of struggle with poverty and persecution. Yet Methodism held its ground, and in 1848, at the close of the suc- cessful pastorate of Father Na- than Paine, could claim forty members and five probationers. In 1857, the fifteenth year of the society's history, the church was in a prosperous condition. The Sabbath School numbered 100, and large additions were made to the library. During the last six months of the Conference year 1858-59, the pulpit was sup- plied by C. H. Payne, now widely known as Secretary of the Board of Education. He con- ducted a glorious revival, in which many were added to the church. In 1860 A. D., when the spirit of secession was rife in the South. twenty-one members and other families related withdrew from our congregation and formed the Congregational Church of this place. That year C. M. Alvord began his pastorate with only twenty-eight members. However, the congregation soon increased to sixty, and at the end of his two years' ministry they numbered seventy-five. THE SOMERSET CHURCH. i8o SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. THE SOMERSET PARSONAGE. In 1871, the church, under the care of James H. Nutting, enjoyed a gracious revival, and became self-supporting. In 1873, Oliver H. Fernald, pastor, the membership was eighty- eight and there were seventeen pro- bationers. This year the "Somerset Religious and Humane Society," in whose name the church property was held, reorganized, so that there might be no dispute regarding its just title to both the land and the building. Then the work of remodeling the building began. It was lenthened twenty feet, making room for an or- gan gallery, covered with a new roof and a steeple added. The "Sewing Circle," placed in the church a beau- tiful sweet-toned pipe organ. The cost of the improvements was $6,721. The resurrected church was dedicated by Bishop Wiley January 28, 1874. Two years later, by the aid of the Sewing Circle and the sale of the pews, the debt upon the church was cancelled. In 1880 George H. Bates was appointed pastor. During his suc- cessful pastorate the society enjoyed prosperity and the church was paint- ed and improved. There were 77 members and two probationers at the close of his pastorate, April, 1882. James Tregaskis became pastor in 1884 and served the church three years. Within this time the church building was greatly improved on the inside, and when it was re-opened the finances were so well in hand that no collection was necessary. The mem- bership suffered greatly by removals, thirty-one persons leaving the town in these three years. Since that time the church has never regained its for- mer strength. Death and removals Tiave made the society still weaker, so that at the present time there are only sixty members. The Epworth League was organized during the pastorate of R. J. REV. F. C. ANDERSON. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 181 Floody, but in a short time was suspended. It was re-organized in February, 1895, W. F. Taylor, pastor, and is now in a fairly prosperous condition. Recently it purchased a new piano for the vestry, and has now paid for it in full. Our League has proven a spiritual help to the church. PASTORS. 1842. Byron Morse 1865. 1843. Levi Daggett 1866. 1844. E. W. Stickney 1867. 1845. Israel Washburn 1868. 1846. John W. Chase 1869. 1847-48. Nathan Paine 1870-71. 1849. Charles Hammond 1872-74. 1850. Father Fillmore 1875. 1851. O. Huse 1876-77. 1852-53. E. H. Hatfield 1878-79. 1854. V W. H. Richards 1 880-81. I 855- John Livesey 1882-83. 1 856-57. Franklin Gavitt 1884-86. 1858. Tames Macreading and 1887-88. C. H. Payne (six 1889. months) 1890. 1859. E. A. Lyon 1891. 1 860-6 1. C. M. Alvord 1892. 1862-63. William T. Worth 1893-96. 1864. C. S. Sanford 1897 B. K. Bosworth George L. Westgate Samuel J. Carroll Micah J. Talbot H. H. Smith James H. Nutting O. H. Fernald Samuel M. Beale E. M. Dunham Charles E. Walker George H. Bates J. D. King James Tregaskis J. N. Patterson Frederick Corson Albert Cameron L. H. Massey R. J. Floody W. F. Taylor F. C. Anderson s. F. STAPLES. Sunday School Superintendent. MISS EVA WESTGATE. Epworth League President. 1 82 SOU I 'ENIR HIS TOR V. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Calvin E. Denham, Samuel T. Staples, Benjamin E. Cundall, David Marble, Philip E. Bowers, Bradford E. Marble. Stewards Calvin E. Denham (R. S.), Samuel T. Staples, Ben- jamin E. Cundall, David Perry, Harry Simmons, Mrs. Mary E. Eddy, Mrs. Celinda Marble, Mrs. A. B. Smith, Miss Jennie E. Bowers. Sunday School Superintendent, S. F. Staples; Assistant Superin- tendent, Miss Jennie Bowers; Secretary and Treasurer, Arthur Marble; Pianist, Miss Gertrude Marble; Librarian, Forrest Simmons. Teachers Miss Jennie Bowers, F. C. Anderson, Miss Eva West- gate, Miss Jennie Eddy, Miss Emma Eddy, Mrs. A. B. Smith, Miss Gertrude Marble, Miss Sophia Marble, S. T. Staples. Epworth League President, Miss Eva Westgate; First Vice-Presi- dent, Mrs. A. Ross; Second Vice-President, Miss Jennie E. Bowers; Third Vice-President, Miss Emma Eddy; Fourth Vice-President, Miss Jennie Eddy; Secretary, Allen B. Smith; Treasurer, 'Harry W. Sim- mons. M. E. CHURCH, SOUTH CARVER, MASS. Previous to 1831 meetings were held in the schoolhouse and private houses in the neighborhood. The first Methodist church in Carver was organized May 18, 1831, by Rev. L. D. Johnson under the title Reformed Methodist. The church was reorganized April 30, 1859, by Rev. S. Y. Wallace under the title Protestant-Methodist. The society continued as Prot- estant-Methodist until August 9, 1867, when it was reorganized again by Rev. Thomas Ely, Pre- siding Elder, as a Methodist-Epis- copal church, and Rev. E. M. Dun- ham was appointed preacher in charge. In the commencement of Meth- odism in Carver Charles Ryder, Ichabod Shurtleff and Thomas Maxim, trustees of the Reformed Methodist, led the movement in building the chapel at Huckleberry Corner, where the Methodists have worshipped for over fifty years. Charles Ryder was a class leader from the commencement of Meth- RBV. E. A. HUNT. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 183 odism in Carver until the time of his death, which occurred August 2, 1886. He was a devoted Christian, an earnest worker, and did much in promoting the interests of the church. All the pastors have la- bored faithfully. Those worthy of special mention are E. Williams, W. I. Ward, J. S. Fish and J. E. Duxbury. Revs. W. E. Manley and T. P. Fisher have entered the foreign mission fields. Here Rev. W. I. Ward found his wife who has made his life happy and useful. SOUTH CARVER CHURCH. NEW CHURCH MOVEMENT. It had been the custom of the Methodists in this place to hold religious meetings in the hall at Furnace Village, about one and three- fourth miles from the chapel. This work seemed to grow in im- portance. In 1893 it was thought best to make the work in that locality permanent, so an old store was leased and fitted up and dedicated to the ser- vice of the Lord on January i, 1894. It was very soon found that this building was too small for the in- creasing congregations and for the Sunday School work. This state of affairs existed until a suitable lot was given by Hon. Peleg McFarlin, and the trustees erected the present build- ing, which was dedicated Dec. 31, 1896, by Presiding Elder T. J. Ever- ett. This building is of modern archi- tecture, is very commodious and con- venient, and altogether a suitable building for the worship of the Lord; situated in the centre of the vil- lage of two hundred and eleven people, a large number of whom are young people and children. CHAPEL, AT FURNACE VILLAGE. 1 84 SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1867-69. 1870. 1871-72. 1873-74. 1875. 1876-77. 1878. 1879. Elisha M. Dunham B. L. Sayer R. H. Dorr Paul Townsend E. Williams A. B. Bessey W. I. Ward H. W. Hamblin 1880. 1881. 1882-85. 1886-88. 1889-90. 1891. 1892. 1893.- J. B. Hamblen, Jr. C. Smith. E. A. Hunt J. S. Fish J. E. Duxbury W. E. Manley T. P. Fisher E. A. Hunt PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees W. S. McFarlin, S. F. Atwood, H. C. Washburn, Jason B. McFarlin, J. Bradford McFarlin, C. H. Atwood, H. H. Gammons. Stewards S. F. Atwood, W. S. McFarlin, J. S. Hudson, H. C. Washburn, W. F. Stanley, G. W. Atwood, E. Dunham, J. T. Mc- Farlin, C. H. Atwood, Mary Stanley, Julia Hudson, Harriet McFarlin, Sarah Andrews. Class Leaders S. F. Atwood, W. F. Stanley. Superintendents Sunday School J. S. Hudson, W. F. Stanley. M. E. CHURCH, SOUTH HARWICH, MASS. What is now the South Harwich Methodist-Episcopal Church was for a number of years the Reformed Methodist Church, ministers of that denomination officiating for about ten years. In 1845 tne church changed its name to that of Wesleyan Methodist, calling for their first pastor, Rev. James Wright, who was followed by Rev. John A. Gibson. Rev. Davis Lathrop, a Baptist minister, was for a few years employed to supply the pulpit. It appears that he was not very evangelical in his preaching and the mem- bers were not satisfied with SOUTH HARWICH CHURCH. the doctrines he preached; but there was connected with the church what was known as "The Society." This consisted of the pew-holders. Many of these were in favor of continuing Mr. Lathrop as preacher. In view of the division it was deemed best to sell the house at public auction, which was done March 4, 1853. It SOUVENIR HISTORY. 185 was bid in by a member of the church, who with others held the house for the use of the Wesleyans. The services of Mr. Lathrop were dis- continued, and Rev. Samuel Palmer called as pastor. He served the church one year. It was then decided to request a supply from the Methodist- Episcopal Conference, and Rev. Thomas Spilsted was ac- cordingly appointed. Under him the present church organ- ization was effected. August 31, 1854, the members were transferred from the Wesleyan Methodist to the Methodist- Episcopal Church. The next year the property was deeded, according to the provision of the discipline to the Metho- SOUTH HARWICH PARSONAGE. dist Episcopal Conference. This was during the pastorate of Rev. Ezekiel Adams, who seems to have been earnest and success- ful in the undertaking. The present pastorate has been blessed with a number of addi- tions to the membership and many temporal improvements. The in- terior of the church has been completely changed in its appearance at a considerable outlay of money. A new barn has been built the present year. A historical sketch of the church would be very incomplete with- out mention being made of the late Obed Nickerson, who was a mem- RBV. CHARLES SMITH. WILLIAM F. SEARS. Sunday School Superintendent. i86 SOLTEXIR HISTORY. her of the church for forty-one years, and in every way one of its most devoted and faithful stewards. Through his efforts Methodism is largely what it now is in this village. PASTORS. 1858-59- 1860. 1861-62. 1863-64. 1865-66. 1867. 1868-69. 1870-71. 1872-73. 1874. Thomas Spilsted 1875. Ezekiel Adams 1876-77. George Burnham 1878-79. B. K. Bosworth 1 880-81. Lemuel Harlow 1882-83. H. D. Robinson 1884-86. F. A. Loomis 1887. James Mather 1888-89. Charles Hammond 1890-92. Joseph Marsh J 893. S. P. Snow 1894. Eben Tirrell 1895 V. W. Mattoon G. H. Lamson J. T. Phelps Merrick Ransom J. Q. Adams J. S. Thomas F. D. Sargent E. S. Fletcher R. M. Wilkins William Kirkby N. B. Cook Charles Smith PRESENT OFFICIARY. Official Board W. M. Eldridge, A. S. Ellis, Thomas Small, W. F. Sears, Albert Crowell, J. W. Cahoon, E. E. Bassett, Hannah Eldridge, G. C. Doane. Superintendent Sunday School William F. Sears. Epworth League President, Rev. Charles Smith; First Vice- President, Wilber T. Crowell; Second Vice-President, W. F. Sears; Secretary, Miss Almena Eldridge; Treasurer, Mrs. Minnie R. Sears. Junior League Superintendent, Miss Tamson D. Eldridge ; Presi- dent, Miss Mary E. Smith. M. E. CHURCH, EAST HARWICH, MASS. This is one of the oldest Methodist Episcopal churches on Cape Cod. Jesse Lee, of historic fame, preached the first Methodist ::ermon in Harwich, some time before any regular services were held. A local preacher from down the Cape, by the name of Kenne, preached some here previous to 1797, when John Broad- head came and formed a class. The Lord blessed his labors to the good of the people and many, it is said, were con- verted to God. The first meeting-house was built in 1799. The prosperity of the society was such that in twelve EAST HARWICH CHURCH. years from the above date it SOUVENIR HISTORY. ^7 was found that their place of worship was too small, and the large and spacious one now in use was built. It was dedicated Janu- ary I, 1812, the sermon on this occasion being preached by Benjamin F. Lombard. In 1848 the building was remodeled and repaired. After these improvements were completed, the church was rededi- cated, the sermon being preached by the Rev. Robert M. Hatfield,then stationed at Sandwich. 1111849 the church was blessed with an exten- sive revival, under the faithful labors of the Rev. Pardon T. Kenney. The first Sabbath school is said to have been organized in h^ year 1845. For about twenty-five years the Sabbath school began in May and closed in the fall. In its early history, the society was served by some of the most earnest workers in the Conference, whose labors resulted in adding to the membership of the church many who for years were faithful to the cause of Christ and His church. Nearly all the old members have entered the heavenly home; but others have come up to at least, in part, keep the work moving here. Owing to removals and losses in other ways, the congregation, membership and Sunday school are not large; yet regular services are maintained. For some years past it has been connected with South Harwich; this has proved a helpful union. In April, 1896, some special services were held, and a number sought and found the Lord, most of whom have united with the church, increasing the number of members, and making the prospect for the future brighter. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Cyrenus Eldridge, Timothy K. Sterns, Frederick W. Nickerson, Hem an F. Chase, Lorenzo. D. Buck, Sparrow M. Young. Stewards Cyrenus Eldridge, Timothy K. Sterns, Frederick W. Nickerson, Heman F. Chase, Lorenzo D. Buck, Sparrow M. Young, Mrs. Etta M. Chase, Sears L. Moore. Sunday School Superintendent, Timothy K. Sterns. PASTORS SERVING AS EVANGELISTS. REV. EDWIN F. JONES began his ministry in 1862 in the New York East Conference at Georgetown, Conn. In 1871 he was trans- ferred to this Conference, and was stationed at North Dighton. Here he organized the famous "praying band" that became a strong evan- gelistic force. At Thames St. Church, Newport, he built the present chapel there. At Grace Church, Taunton, there were extensive im- provements during his pastorate. But his chief power has been along spiritual lines. Blessed revivals have taken place in nearly all his pastorates. He is a very faithful pastor. As a preacher he is earnest and spiritual. As an evangelist he seldom fails. He is resourceful. His rule as a pastor has been never to stay longer than two years at a place. Rev. S. O. Benton, D. A. Jordan, M. J. Talbot, Ensign McChesney, D. A. Whedon and others commend him as an evangelist to our churches. REV. EDWIN F. JONES. REV. JAMES TREGASKIS. REV. JAMES TREGASKIS began preaching in 1870 at Bur- lington, N. Y. (N. Y. E. Conf.). His first work in this Conference was at Jewett City in 1874, where a mighty revival took place, and as a result he organized and built the church there. Material improve- ments at Putnam, Somerset and Thompsonville were the results of his energetic labors. At the last named charge $300 were spent in improvements and $500 in debts cancelled. Also the general finan- cial and spiritual condition of the church was excellent. Special work in revivals at Uncasville and Manchester was very successful. In fact, blessed revivals and spiritual awakening of churches have taken place at almost every charge. His sweet spirit, together with the help of his consecrated wife, have made his ministry a very help- ful, harmonious and successful one. While pastor at Summerfield Church, Fall River, there were additions to the church at almost every communion. When there he published a paper of local interest to Fall River Methodists, entitled 'The Methodist." M. E. CHURCH, SOUTH MIDDLEBORO, MASS. The history of the Methodist Episcopal Church in South Micldle- boro begins during the year 1868. The first class was formed April 10, with S. D. Wilber as leader, a position he faithfully rilled for many Rev. J. G. Gammons was the organizer. Previous to the organ- ization into a Methodist- Episcopal church, the church here was a Re- formed Methodist. Near- ly all the members of this body became mem- bers of the M. E. church. The church building and parsonage and land be- longing to the Reformed Methodist Church and Society have always been occupied and used for the benefit of the M. E. SOUTH MIDDLEBORO CHURCH. Church, although the property is not deeded in regular form to our church. Back of the Reformed Methodist Church was a Baptist Church, of which we know almost nothing. Miss Mary Ann Thomas says of the old Reformed Methodist Church: "I was born April n, 1820. I saw my father and my eldest sister baptized by Rev. Pliny Brett, when I was not more than seven years old. Elder Brett was a Reformed Methodist minister, who lived in Pocasset, Mass., and came to South Middle- boro, where he "did much work." "Elder Brett had done his work and gone before 1830." Rev. Uriah Miner came in 1830, and remained until the latter part of 1835. His successor is not known. "The Reverend Elijah Bailey was about here in those SOUTH MIDDLEBORO PARSONAGE. ]yo SOn-'ENIR HISTORY. days of Reformed Methodism." Mention is also made of three Johnson brothers. Lorenzo D. Johnson's work resulted in a revival. He married a Miss Mary Burgess of the neighboring town of Roches- REV. C. N. HINCKLEY. MRS. EMMA GAMMONS. Recording Steward. ter, Mass. Afterwards he joined the N. E. S. Conference, and died at Pocasset, where he was stationed. Rev. Theophilus Brown came to South Middleboro in 1841 and A. c. WILBER. Sunday School Superintendent. JAMES B. TRIPP. Epworth League President. re-organized the Reformed Methodist Church in 1842. Mrs. Thomas and her father and sister joined it in June of that year, and she alone SOUVENIR HISTORY. I g 1 remains to-day of all who were members at that time, having been a member of that church and its successor for fifty-five years. Since the organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church, special mention is made of the pastorate of Rev. Philip Crandon. In 1874 the church was re-modeled, and a vestry added. Deep spiritual interest was also aroused. Rev. Thomas Harrison came to the assist- ance of the pastor. "An unusual revival swept throughout the com- munity," and some of the fruit still remains. But during the revival Mr. Crandon was taken sick and died, a martyr to- his zeal for the salvation of the people. Honorable mention is also made of Rev. Isaac Sherman and Rev. E. A. Hunt. Rev. Mr. Hunt served the church five years. He organized the Hunt Chapter of the Epworth League, and superintended extensive repairs on the inside of the church. Also graded the lawn and formed an association known as the "Cemetery Association," greatly to the improvement of the cemetery. PASTORS. 1868. J. G. Gammons 1882-84. S. P. Snow 1869. Isaac B. Forbes 1885. J. Livesey 1870-72. Benjamin L. Sayer 1886-90. E. A. Hunt 1873. John W. Price 1891-92. J. A. Wood 1874-75. Philip Crandon J 893-95. J- S. Thomas 1876-77. Charles Stokes 1896. C. A. Purdy 1878-80. Isaac Sherman l &97 C. N. Hinckley 1881. O. R. Higgins PRESENT OFFICIARY. On the Board of Stewards are the names of Abiel Fuller and Nathaniel Shurtleff, one 93, and the other 85. Other names are S. D. Wilber, H. K. Ryder, E. H. Gammons, A. C. Wilber, A. E. Thomas, J. B. Tripp, Lucy Le Baron and Emma J. Gammons (R. S.). Mrs. Gammons has been R. S. for ten years, Assistant Superintendent of Sunday school eight years, President of Ladies' Aid Society and W. C. T. U. Sunday School Superintendent, A. C. Wilber; Assistant Superin- tendent, A. E. Thomas; Treasurer, J. B. Tripp; Secretary, A. E. Thomas; Librarian, Charles Gammons; Organist, Annie Gammons. Epworth League President, James B. Tripp; First Vice-Presi- dent, Henry W. Ryder; Second Vice-President, Carrie Shaw; Third Vice-President, Florence Thomas; Fourth Vice-President, Jennie M. Gammons: Secretary, Viretta F. Shaw; Treasurer, E. H. Gammons. FIRST M. E. CHURCH, SOUTH SOMERSET, MASS. Upon an eminence which overlooks Fall River, a city of one hun- dred thousand inhabitants, and the largest cotton manufacturing cen- tre on this continent, the beautiful Mount Hope Bay, and the pictur- esque Taunton Great River, the parsonage and present house of wor- ship of the First Methodist Episcopal Society of Somerset stand. This society has an illustrious history. The present century had hardly dawned when that pioneer of Metho- dism, Rev. Joseph Snell- ing, at that time sta- tioned on the Warren circuit, formed a class of seven members at the home of Nathaniel Lew- in in Swansea. A little later, upon invitation of Mr. John Wilbur, one of its members, Mr. Snelling conducted re- ligious services at his house in South Somerset. This was the beginning of the preaching of the gospel according to Meth- odism in this place. And until a church was built, meetings were regularly held at Mr. Wilbur's house, which was always freely opened to all Methodists. The soil proved so fruitful that in March, 1802, a society was per- manently organized. Captain James Sherman, afterwards licensed a local preacher, Nathan Lewin, Diana Lewin, Sarah Lewin, Gardner and Israel Anthony were its original members. The first person added to this newly organized church was Mr. John Brayton, a man whose qualities of mind and heart were such as to well merit another's characteriza- tion as "one of the most use- ful and influential members of the little flock. SOUTH SOMERSET PARSONAGE. SOUTH SOMERSET CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 193 During the pastorate of Rev. Alexander M. Lane on Bristol Cir- cuit in 1804, and through the liberality of Captain William Read, who. gave the land, Mr. Brayton,Dr.Winslow of Swansea and other friends,, a church was built on the site occupied by the present edifice. This was the second Methodist church built in Bristol county. In 1805 Somerset for the first time is reported in the minutes. The total membership, including Bristol and Warren, with which it was connected, is given as 125. At various times in its early history this society was also associated with Newport, Providence, Greenwich,, and a little later Mansfield and Dighton. One of the original members of this church, Israel Anthony, REV. E. W. ELDRIDGE. MRS. E. W. ELDRIDGE. moved with his family to North Dighton in 1814. Through his in- fluence a Methodist church was soon after formed at that place. In 1825 Rev. Heman Perry, stationed at Somerset, instituted regular preaching services and organized a class in Fall River. While Rev. George Carpenter was pastor in 1841 sixty-nine were converted in n revival at Somerset Village, forty of whom were formed into a class which subsequently became the Second Methodist Episcopal Church. Thus from the loins of this society the Methodist Episcopal churches on both sides of Taunton river from its mouth to its source sprang. Among the many notable pioneer ministers of Methodism who have preached in the old church are Lorenzo Dow, Freeborn Garrett- son and Bishop Francis Asbury. Rev. Edward B. Hinckley was appointed to this church in 1849. That year a new, more modern and convenient house of worship was built in place of the old one. Rev. Daniel Wise of Fall River preached the dedicatory sermon. 194 SOL'l'ENIR HISTORY. Land adjoining the lot on which the church was situated was bought for a merely nominal sum in 1860. A pleasant and commo- dious parsonage was built thereon, Rev. Joseph Baker, the pastor, aiding materially in the work. The church was altered and improved at an outlay of over one thousand dollars in 1870; Rev. Edwin L. Hyde, pastor. Rededication services were held Nov. 2. The next day lightning struck the church, necessitating an outlay of over five hundred dollars to repair damages. In March, 1889, this church was entirely destroyed by fire. Under the leadership of Rev. John A. Rood this undaunted and heroic people determined to rebuild, and on December 5 of the same year the present CHARLES W. ANTHONY, Secretary Board of Trustees. A. W. WEAVER, Epworth League President. beautiful and convenient house of worship was dedicated. The dedi- cation of this church free of debt was made possible to this society, after their own self-sacrificing efforts, through the generous gifts of children of Mrs. Israel Brayton, who was in her life a member of this church, a kind-hearted, thoughtful, hospitable and most generous woman. During the pastorate of Rev. Louis M. Flocken an Epworth League was organized. Mr. A. W. Weaver, its president, is a young man, one of the most successful farmers in town, full of energy, ever alert to the interests of the church, and a loyal helper in all its under- takings. In the earlier records of this church one finds the name of Job Gardner, a loyal Methodist and staunch supporter of the church. His son, the Hon. Job Gardner, has served as Superintendent of the Sun- day School for upwards of forty years, and though over 70 years of SOUVENIR HISTORY. age is so fertile in plans and up-to-date in methods as to give evidence that he is far from crossing the dead line. Great credit is due Mr. William G. Pearse, senior member of the well-known firm of W. G. Pearse & Co., Agricultural Implements, WILLIAM G. PEARSE, Recording Secretary Board of Trustes. HON. DANIEL WILBUR, President Board of Trustees. Seeds, Hardware, etc., of Fall River. Mr. Pearse joined this church in 1886, during the pastorate of Rev. W. I. Ward. Into his religious life he puts the same intelligence and force as that with w r hich his busi- HON. DANIEL WILBUR (deceased). Former President Board of Trustees. GEORGE REED (deceased). ness was builded. As Recording Steward and Treasurer of the Board of Trustees he aids by his wise counsels and generous gifts in the management of the finances as well as the other interests of the church. 196 SOUVENIR HISTORY. In June, 1896, this society met with a great loss in the death of the Hon. Daniel Wilbur, for thirty years president of the Board of Trus- tees. His decease was followed by that of his wife six weeks later. Both were generous helpers in the church. Mr. Wilbur's son, Daniel Wilbur, Jr., a man of high esteem throughout the community, suc- ceeded his father in the Presidency of the Board. Tn February, 1897, Mr. George Read, for upwards of thirty years a staunch supporter and generous giver to the church of which he was a member, passed on to his reward above. He was for many years Sec- retary of the Board of Trustees. His father was Captain William Read, one of the early promoters of this society. Mr. Charles W. Anthony, whose ancestors were connected with this church, himself a lifelong Metho- dist, generous, consecrated and true, is the present Secretary of the Board. Besides the Sunday School and Ep- worth League, there is a Ladies' Aid Society, which has rendered material help in times past. Miss Rhoda Dur- ifee is the President. In April, 1897, through the generosity of the Hon. John Sum- merfield Brayton, LL. D., of Fall River, grandson of Mr. John Bray- ton, one of the founders of this church, a carefully selected library of over one hundred and fifty volumes of recent and valuable Biblical and Theological works was placed in the parsonage for the use of the pastors. These works were written by eminent authorities, and must t>e of great value for years to come. Many other names worthy of special mention are found connected with the history of this church. But in the efforts to condense nearly one hundred years of remarkable church history into space allowed by publishers many things and persons must necessarily be omitted. The religious life of this church is characterized not by noisy demonstrations, but by cheerful loyalty to the highest convictions of truth and duty, thoughtful and conscientious study of the right and steadfast following it. Throughout its long history its present mem- bers are confident that God has lead this people, and with the heroic and self-sacrificing spirit which animated their fathers they still plan for and expect great things of God. Within a year past over $200 has HON. JOB GARDNER. Sunday School Superintendent. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 197 been expended in parsonage furnishings and improvements. During the present pastorate accessions have been reported by probation or letter at nearly every Quarterly Conference. The church property is entirely free from debt. Encouraged by the past, strong in the pres- ent consciousness of the Divine Presence, this "church on the hill" looks hopefully toward the future determining to be a beacon light, strong and clear, to souls journeying in the path of God. 1800. 1801. 1802. 1803-4. 1805-6. 1807. 1808-9. 1810. 1811. 1812-13. 1814. 1815. 1816. 1817. 1818. 1819, 1820-21. 1822-23. 1824. 1825. 1826. 1827-28. 1829. 1830. 1831. 1832. 3833- PASTORS. Joseph Snelling 1834-35. John Finnegan and 1836-37. Daniel Fiddler Reuben Hubbard, Caleb 1838. Morris, Alexander Cobb !839. Alexander McLane 1840. Joseph Snelling 1841. Joshua Crowell 1842. Levi Walker : 843- John Lindsey 1 S44- Thomas Asbury i&45- Artemas Stebbins 1846. Edward Hyde and 1847. William Marsh 1848. Benjamin R. Hoyt and 1849. J. Walker 1850. Richard Emery 1851-52. Nathan Paine 1853-54. Isaac Jennison and E. 1855. Streeter 1856. Isaac Bonney 1857-58. Thomas W. Tucker 1859. Benjamin Hazleton 1 860-61. Ebenezer Blake 1862-64. Heman Perry 1865-67. Charles Virgin and N. 1868-70. B. Spaulding 1871-72. David Culver J 873-75. N. S. Spaulding and 1876-77. Robert Gould 1878. Nathan Paine and H. 1879-81. Walker 1882-84. F. Dane and H. Wai- 1885. den 1886-89. Warren Emerson and 1890-91. J. B. Baldwin 1892-95. James Bicknell 1896 None Isaac Bonney and Le- Roy Sunderland S. W. Wilson and Wareham Campbell J. T. Sturtevant William B. Simmons George Carpenter Levi Daggett, Jr Ezekiel W. Stickney Micah J. Talbot Benjamin L. Sayer John W. Case John E. Gifford Edward B. Hinckley James M. Worcester Lawton Cady Ormando N. Brooks J. N. Collier John Livesey Varnum A. Cooper C. Collard Adams Joseph Baker Henry H. Smith William Penn Hyde Edward L. Hyde C. S. Morse George H. Lamson George W. Wright S. Hamilton Day E. Tirrell John Livesey William I. Ward John A. Rood Orville A. Farley Louis M. Flocken Ernest W. Eldridge 1 98 SOLTENIR HISTORY. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Daniel Wilbur, President; W. G. Pearse, Treasurer - C. W. Anthony, Secretary ; Job Gardner, A. W. Weaver, Thomas H. Stevens, John L. Slade, Elisha M. Keen, George Marvel. Stewards W. G. Pearse, R. S.; Job Gardner, D. S.; A. W. Weaver, C. W. Anthony, F. J. Arnold, John McKean, Jane G. Read, Marietta S. Gardner, Lizzie M. Pearse, Ella Bosworth, Lura R. P. Weaver, Carrie A. Bush, Rhoda M. Durfee. Sunday School Superintendent, Job Gardner; Assistant Superin- tendent, A. W. Weaver; Secretary, Emma Read; Treasurer, Fred Clarner; Librarian, A. W. Weaver; Assistant, Mrs. A. W. W'eaver; Organist, Alice Bosworth. Epu'orth League President, A. W. Weaver; Vice-Presidents, Mrs. A. W. Weaver, Amelia G. Read, Mrs. E. W. Eldridge, Mary Astle; Secretary, Mary E. Anthony; Treasurer, Emma Read. M. E. CHURCH, SOUTH TRURO, MASS. There is no record of the founding of the church in South Truro to be found at the present time. . The date assigned is a matter of inference. From reliable sources it is safe to sav that the church was SOUTH TRURO CHURCH. built and the first society organized not later than 1794. It is prob- able that the intention was to build the first meeting-house in Prov- incetown, but the movement met such violent hostility, that those interested decided to build in Truro for the mutual accommodation of Provincetown, Truro and Wellfleet. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 199 The statement that the church in South Truro was the second Methodist church built in New England is well established. Jesse Rich, the great grandfather of Thomas Rich and Miss Han- nah Cobb, now members of the church, gave a site of half an acre of land for this meeting-house, which was made of rough lumber and un- plastered. The pews were benches made of planks. It is said for years, the swallows flew in and out at pleasure, and building their nests upon the rough beams, fed their young during Divine service. For some reason unknown to the residents of the parish now, the members of this first society decided to build farther north, and the church at the Centre was built in 1827. But it never was their vine and fig-tree; and feeling that they did not have their rights, the people SOUTH TRURO CHURCH AND PARSONAGE. at the .South became dissatisfied. In one of the meetings, the relation became so strained that the meeting broke up in great disorder. Before another quarterly meeting Elisha Newcombe, Freeman Cobb, Nehemiah Rich, Sears Rich and others met in the house of Elisha Newcombe and organized "The Second Methodist Society in Truro," August 29th, 1829. Instead of returning to the first meeting-house erected, they built a new building, 33x44 feet, with galleries on three sides, and dedicated it December 15, 1831, Rev. Benjamin F. Lombard, P. E., preaching the sermon. Rev. Benjamin Keith was very active, and aided by his influence the completion of the work. When ill health compelled him to locate, he made Truro his home, and a marble slab marks his resting place in the cemetery, perhaps on the very site of the original meeting- house. 2OO SOUr EN I R HISTORY. HANNAH S. COBB, Sunday School Superintendent. "In 1851, when the town was at the height of prosperity, the society had outgrown their house of 1831, and the present graceful and attractive building, most eligibly situated westward of the old site, was built." It stands on one of the sand hills which Hector, the last slave sold in Truro, knew so well through his long, lonely and unloved life, which began a century and a quarter before the foundations of the church were laid. He is said, as he walked or drove to the fields, to have prayed audibly and realized in the simplicity of his faith that there is a "daysman." Methodism came to Truro, bearing record of the Word of God and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, to proclaim that there is a "daysman betwixt us," and liberty to hundreds of captives. The society now is only a rapidly retreating "shadow of its former self." It is pathetic beyond description to count on the records only twenty- eight members, thirteen of whom are non-residents, to stand in the old pulpit, and to look at the walls and ceilings which in former days have echoed the prayers and praises of God's children, as they gath- ered in crowds, but which now are broken and fallen, unable to stand longer the winds that have strained their timbers for nearly half a century. The noble sons and daughters of a King within the bounds of the parish have long since gone to other fields to seek their fortunes, or one after another, have laid down their oars to step upon the banks of the great river in their Heavenly home. PASTORS. During the period of 1794-1810 Truro was a circuit appointment. There is no mention of Truro in the General Minutes until 1811. From the life of Rev. Joseph Snelling, written by himself, it is evident that he labored in Truro as an exhorter in 1795 and as preacher in 1796. 1811. Joseph A. Merrill 1827-28. The people worshipped 1812. Robert Arnold in the new church at 1813-26. During this period also the Centre. there is no mention 1829-30. A. Holway of Truro in the min- 1831-32. Benjamin Keith utes. 1833-34. Joseph B. Brown SO Ul 'ENIR HIS TOR Y. 20 1 1835-38. Thomas Dodge 1858-59. 1839-40. Joel Steele 1860. 1841. James Bicknell 1861. 1842-43. Henry H. Smith 1862-63. 1844-45. Lozien Pierce 1864-65. 1846-47. William Leonard 1866. 1848-49. Adin H. "Newton 1867-69. 1850. Ira M. Bidwell was ap- 1870. pointed, but meeting 1871. with an accident on 1872-73. the cars, he was un- 1874-75. able to take the work 1876-78. and Adin H. Newton 1879. supplied 1880-82. 1851. Anthony Palmer 1883-85. 1852-53. William Kellen 1886-88. 1854-55. William Leonard 1889. 1856-57. F. A. Loomis 1890-94. Josiah C. Allen A. Latham Seth B. Chase George S. Alexander E. M. Anthony L. W. Bowdish Benjamin L. Sayer S. F. Whidden W. T. Miller George S. Macomber George H. Butler V. W. Mattoon C. N. Hinckley J. S. Fish Charles T. Hatch John O. Adams J. S. Bell John S. Fish Mr. Fish remained on this charge until November 4, 1894, "When on the morn of that Sabbath he left the lower sanctuary where he had so many years officiated, and entered upon the eternal Sabbath and "bowed lowly in the upper sanctuary before Him who sitteth on the .great white throne. 1894-95. Jason F. Thurston sup- 1896. W. D. Wilkinson plied six months. ^97 F. L. Brooks PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Thomas S. Rich, Joseph S. Cole, Jessie A. Cobb, Silas Ryder, Jessie A. Rich, Mary Stocker. Stezvards Thomas S. Rich, Joseph S. Cole, Jessie Rich, Mercy Cobb, Hannah S. Cobb, Marietta G. Rich, Mary E. Stocker. Sunday School Superintendent, Secretary and Treasurer, Han- nah S. Cobb: Librarian, Mercy S. Cobb. Teachers Thomas S. Rich, Marietta G. Rich. M. E. CHURCH, SOUTH YARMOUTH, MASS. The old church formerly stood southeast of the village near the Silas Baker homestead. Little is known of its history. Of a number of pastors Rev. Lewis B. Bates, D. D., and Rev. G. W. Stearns, D. D., are most widely known. The church now standing in the centre of the village was erected in 1852. The pastorates most memorable for revivals are those of Rev. SOUTH YARMOUTH CHURCH. Henry Aston, Rev. C. Hammond and Rev. W. L. Phillips. During Mr. Hammond's ministry the present parsonage was purchased. "Taylor Chapel," the gift of Mr. Elisha Taylor, was built in 1884. PASTORS. 1853- 1855. 1856. 1857- 1858. 1859. 1 860-6 1. 1862-63. 1864. 1865-67. 1868. 1869-70. 1871. 1874-76. Henry Aston James M. Worcester Lemuel Harlow Edward B. Hinckley William E. Sheldon Lawton Cady B. L. Sayer' F. A. Loomis Joseph Gurney C. Hammond L. Bowdish W. F. Farrington S. F. Whidden and W. F. Whitcher W. L. Phillips 1877. W. F. Steele 1878. G. E. Fuller 1879-80. A. McCord 1881-83. E. Williams 1883-84. G. W. Wright 1885. S. H. Day and J. H. George 1886. W. P. Arbuckle 1887. W. E. Kugler 1888-89. G. E. Dunbar 1890-91. S. K. Arbuthnot 1892. W. D. Wilkinson 1893. E. E. Marshall 1894-95. E. W. Elclridge 1896 G. W. Tupper PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees G. H. Loring, Lothrop Baker, J. F. Sears, J. Crowell, F. A. Crowell, R. K. Farris, M. H. Crowell, Allen Farris, E. T. Baker. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 203 Stewards J. Crowell, M. H. Crowell, Mrs. G. H. Loring, Mrs. E. T. Baker, Mrs. L. Fuller, Mrs. M. Smith, Mrs. A. Sears, Mrs. A. Kelley, Mrs. Seth Kelley, Mrs. Annie Hath way, Miss P. L. Kelley. Class Leader Joseph Crowell. Organist Mrs. A. C. White. Sexton G. H. Loring. Sunday School Superintendent, Pastor; Assistant Superintendent, Mrs. Ezra D. Kelley; Secretary and Treasurer, Miss Lottie Kelley; Librarian, Miss Melva Wood. Teachers Captain G. H. Loring, Captain L. Baker, Mrs. I. P. F. Farris, Mrs. Joseph Crowell, Mrs. E. T. Baker, Mrs. Seth Kellev, Mrs. Ezra D. Kellev, Miss Fannie Haffords. - ~" -, G. H. LORING, President Board of Trustees. J. CROWELL, Twenty years Class Leader. 5 ELISHA TAYLOR, Donator of Taylor Chapel. M. H. CROWBLL, Recording Secretary. TAUNTON METHODIST SOCIAL UNION. By Rev. C. A. Stenhouse. Sociability is next in importance to spiritualty in the church. It sometimes happens, however, that while sociability exists in the indi- idual church, that church may fail to be sociable with neighboring churches; so that there may be narrowness even in the sphere of socia- bility. The "Union" solves this problem. Taunton has a flourishing union which has done much to create the connectional and fraternal feeling which happily exists between the Methodist churches in the city and its vicinity. At an official meeting in Central Church during the latter part of 1891 a committee of three, namely, Ezra Hamlen, J. F. MONTGOMERY. C. H. LINCOLN. W. M. DUNBAR. Andre S. Rounds and Willis H. Waitt, were appointed to see what could be done about forming a Methodist Social Union. March 28,. 1892, that committee made its report. It appears from the records of the Social Union that an informal meeting of representatives from all the church and all the Epworth League chapters of the city was held at the residence of Mr. Ezra Hamlen, Somerset Avenue, on the evening of March 19, 1892. It was resolved, on motion of Rev. A. W. Kingsley, then pastor of Central Church, to recommend the forming of a social union. A committee was appointed to draft a constitution, etc., and report at another meeting in the same place, March 26, 1892. That committee was as follows: Ezra Hamlen of the Central Church, M. A. Dary of the First Church, J. E. Blake of Grace Church and Rev. J. S. Bell of Tremont Street Church. The constitution was adopted at a meet- ing held in the First Church, May 2, 1892. All the churches were represented at this meeting, and the organization was effected as follows: President, Marcus A. Dary (First Church); First Vice-Presi- dent, Amasa E. Blake (Grace); Second Vice-President, Eli H. Eld- ' SOUVENIR HISTORY. 205 ridge (Central); Secretary, Elizabeth J. Whiting (Grace); Correspond- ing Secretary, George W. Barrows (First); Treasurer, Walter M. Dun- bar (Central); Directors, Luther B. West, Mrs. Cora Brownell, Ezra Hamlen, Walter L. Park, Mrs. J. F. Montgomery. The first banquet and accompanying feast of intellectual things was given in the Central church June 20, 1892. The Rev. Charles Parkhurst, D. D., editor of Zion's Herald, gave the address of the evening, on "Three Constituent Qualities of Methodism." It was an able and comprehensive view of successful Methodism for which the Union expressed its thanks by a rising vote. Opening thus auspiciously, the Union has enjoyed every year its four meetings in February, May, September and November, occurring in rotation in the First, Grace and Central churches. Its membership has doubled and its success in making members of the different churches know each other better has resulted in an increased spiritual interest between them. Union meetings for religious awakening have been suggested by the Union and successfully attempted by the churches. During the past summer two of the churches held union services four Sundays in August. Two services were held in each church. This idea emanated from laymen who are prominent in the "Union." The president is elected annually; only one violation of this law has occurred and that was in the case of the second one elected. He did so well in his office that the law was suspended. Hence there have been four presidents, as follows: M. A. Dary, W. M. Dunbar, J. F. Montgomery and C. H. Lincoln. These were taken from First, Central and Grace churches; the fourth president begins the rotation again. This is the law. The secretaries have been Elizabeth J. Whiting and Walter L. Park, each one year, and the present incumbent, Augusta M. West. The invited speakers have been, besides members: Rev. C. Park- hurst, D. D., Rev. W. N. Brodbeck, D. D., Bishop R. S. Foster, D. D., Rev. L. B. Bates, D. D., Rev. F. D. Blakeslee, D.D., Rev. C. H. Payne, D. D., Prof. H. G. Mitchell, Rev. C. M. Melden, Rev. E. M. Taylor, Rev. C. L. Goodell, Rev. T. J. Everett and Rev. F. E. E. Hamilton, Rev. J. D. Pickles, Ph. D., Rev. C. W. Holden, Rev. C. M. Melden, Ph. D., Prof. W. T. Mowry. The members of the Union at the close of the June, 1892, meeting were: Revs. A. W. Kingsley, G. W. King, E. F. Clark, J. W. Willett, J. E. Blake, Messrs. M. A. Dary, W. H. Phillips, E. H. Eldridge, L. B. West, E. S. Young, W. M. Dunbar, E. Hamlen, S. Miller, J. L. Merigold, W. B. Ashley, W. F. Bodfish, A. Dix, A. E. Blake, E. F. Morton, H. Wood, C. F. Luther, G. W. Barrows, W. L. Park, G. T. Fisher, J. F. Brownell, J. S. Cummings, G. T. Davis, C. H. Lincoln, 20 6 SOUVENIR HISTORY. J. F. Montgomery, J. L. Presbrey, W. E. Walker, E. W. Wilson, W. D. Richardson, Mrs.: W. H. Phillips, T. W. Coombs, E. H. Eldridge. L. B. West, C. L. Chick, W. H. Field, W. M. Dunbar, E. Hamlen, W. F. Bodfish, J. F. Brownell, G. W. Barrows, J. S. Cum- mings, M. A. Dary, G. T. Davis, R. G. Ellis, Rev. G. W. King, C. H. Lincoln, S. Miller," J. F. Montgomery, G. E. Paull, W. L. Park, E. P. Staples, Rev. J. W. Willett, W. E. Walker, W. D. Richardson, Misses M. L. Bicknell, N. B. Drew, M. E. Pye, E. G. Parker, M. A. Sprague, E. J. Whiting. The executive committee consists of all the officers and five direc- tors. The directors for 1897 are as follows: Miss Ida G. Barrows (First), H. B. Buffinton and C. F. Luther (Grace), Miss Mary E. Pye and I. Alfred Messenger (Central). Two members, the Rev. J. W. Willett and Miss Mary E. Pye, have deceased during August, 1897. Appropriate resolutions have been published by the Union. M. E. CHURCH, NORTH HARWICH, MASS. The church building was built by William Ryder, James Baker, Henry Kelley, and Xathan Foster, in the year 1842, for a Reformed Methodist Church, and in about ten years it w r as changed to Wesleyan Methodist; then, in a few years, to Methodist-Episcopal Church. There are only two of the first members living Mrs. Betsey Bas- sett and Mrs. Rhoda Baker. Reform Methodist Preachers Rev. Moses H. Swift, Rev. Harry Herris, Rev. Presbury Clark and Rev. Nathan Clark. M. E. Pastors Rev. Moses Brown, Rev. Mr. Dixon, Rev. Mr. Pierson, Rev. Francis A. Loomis, Mr. J. T. Smalley, Rev. Davis Lothrop, Rev. George E. Dunbar, Rev. N. W. Everett, Rev. J. G. Gammons and Rev. J. T. Docking. CENTRAL M. E. CHURCH, TAUNTON, MASS. The history of this church begins with the year 1852, when social meetings were held in Bank Hall, corner of Cedar and Main Streets, by a few members of the First Church, Weir Village, who lived near the centre of the city called "The Green," and who found the "Weir" too' far away, and who also thought very wisely that a strategic point like the Centre should be seized for Methodism. Their judgment was soon vindi- cated. After several business meet- ings in the shop of William Hutch- inson, 6 Main Street, a lot was pur- chased on Cohannet Street and a building committee appointed, Subscriptions were solicited by William Hutchinson, chairman of the committee, to whom the final success of the enterprise was mainly attributed. In the spring of 1853 R ev. W. H. Stetson be- came the pastor of this church of 13 members by Conference ap- pointment. Of the original 13 only one member remains on the roll of membership Mrs. Mary B. King, wife of Mr. Job King, who recently retired from the Mason machine shops, after more than fifty years service. On the first Sunday Mr. Stetson organized a Sunday School of fifty members in Templar Hall, with G. O. White as superin- tendent. Early in this year the Whittenton Society disbanded and its members united with Central Church, increasing thereby the lat- ter's membership to thirty. It was still in the spring of 1853 when the building of the new church was put under contract. The work was pushed rapidly, and early in the fall the vestry was occupied. The crowds that attended and the presence of the Holy Spirit both attested that God favored the undertaking. Rev. C. H. Titus was appointed the next year, 1854. The building was completed and dedi- cated in May, Rev. J. T. Peck, D. D., afterwards Bishop, preaching the sermon. Pews were sold to the amount of $2,200, leaving a debt of $4,000. The records show that the Sunday School now num- bered 158. The membership of the church continued to increase. In 1855 Rev. H. C. Atwater, the pastor, found sixty-three members CENTRAL CHURCH, TAUNTON. 208 SOUVENIR HISTORY. and nineteen probationers, and left at the end of the year seventy- four members and twenty-three probationers. Rev. S. F. Upham, now a professor in Drew Theological Seminary, increased the membership the following two years to no members and thirteen probationers. CENTRAL, CHURCH PARSONAGE. At this time the Central had nearly reached the mother church both in point of numbers and in ability, as the Conference minutes show. There was a difference of only one in total membership and of only fifty dollars in salary paid. The debt gradually decreased, for the REV. C. A. STENHOUSE. MRS. C. A. STENHOUSE. pew rentals were used by the trustees for its liquidation. But in 1863, when Rev. Frederick Upham, father of Rev. S. F. Upham, be- came pastor here, he found a debt of $2,200, and by an extraordinary effort reduced it to $600. By the continuous revivals and steady SOUVENIR HISTORY. 209 growth of the church in membership under the leadership of such men as Revs. J. A. M. Chapman, J. W. Willett, H. D. Robinson, Alexander Anderson and A. P. Palmer, it finally became necessary to B. H. SCUDDER, Sunday School Superintendent. L. L. MITCHELL, Epworth League President. enlarge the church edifice, which was done in 1876 during the pas- torate of Rev. O. H. Fernald. The eastern end of the building was extended, vestibules and stairways changed and improved and an organ alcove made at the side of the pulpit, the whole being done at J. W. THAYER, President Board of Trustees. EZRA HAMLEN, Treasurer Board of Trustees. an outlay of about $2,300. Fifty persons were taken on probation. Rev. J. E. Hawkins, the next pastor, saw quite an extensive revival and left a net increase in the membership of fifty-two. 2IO SO L' I 'EN I R HISTORY. In 1 88 1 Rev. Edward Edsoii began his work. He saw over fifty conversions, an old debt of $700 paid, and a lot for a new par- sonage bought at a cost of $1,250 during his three years of service. The Rev. G. W. Hunt was appointed pastor in 1884. The church prospered. During his three years there were ninety additions to the church, but a necessary pruning of the rolls left a net gain of only sixteen. A new parsonage was erected at a cost of $4,300, including the lot on Myrtle Street. The first lot was sold, having become un- suitable owing to the erection of cotton sheds on the adjoining lot. A mortgage of $2,600 remained on the parsonage. The next year, 1885, improvements on the church edifice were accomplished at a cost of $4,400, all of which was provided for by subscriptions. The edifice was now in splendid condition, with a seating capacity of about A. J. DUNBAR. Local Preacher. A. S. ROUNDS. 600, and all the requirements for church work. Bishop R. S. Foster preached the reopening sermon, October n, 1885, and Rev. Dr. S. F. Upham preached in the evening. Gains continued; 105 additions were made during the pastorate of Rev. W. J. Smith. The Worcester Street Mission, now Tremont Street (Oakland), took organized form with a stationed preacher. Twenty-eight mem- bers and seven probationers were dismissed from Central to unite with it. In the organization of Grace Church also several members were furnished, so that with all its gains, Central has not reached in net membership the place its many additions warranted. Rev. A. W. Kingsley, like eight of his predecessors, enjoyed a three years' pas- torate, during which advances were made in benevolences and in pastor's salary, and a new piano was purchased by the Epworth SOUVENIR HISTORY. 21 r League. This church has been noted during its history for the re- spect and deference paid its pastors, and the latter have parted from this cordial and harmonious people with regret. The present pastor, Rev. C. A. Stenhouse, appointed in April, 1893, is closing the fifth year in that spirit. The hard financial conditions throughout the coun- try have prevented any marked material progress, yet many improve- ments on the church and in the furnishings of the parsonage have been made. The present membership is 267, with several proba- tioners. PASTORS. 1853. W. H. Stetson 1867-68. H. D. Robinson 1854. C. H. Titus 1869-71. A. Anderson 1855. H. C. Atwater 1872-74. A. P. Palmer 1856-57. S. F. Upham J875-77. O. H. Fernald 1858. J. A. M. Chapman 1878-80. J. E. Hawkins 1859. James Mather 1881-83. Edward Edson 1860-61. John Howson 1884-86. G. W. Hunt 1862. E. H. Hatfield 1887-89. W. J. Smith 1863-65. Frederick Upham 1890-92. A. W. Kingsley 1866. ' J- W. Willett 1893 C. A. Stenhouse PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees President, J. W. Thayer; Secretary and Treasurer, Ezra Hamlen; A. S. Rounds, J. W. Strang, B. B. Grinnell, J. B. Farring- ton, J. A. Messenger, L. P. Gammons, Nathaniel Smellie. Stewards Recording, A. S. Rounds; District, J. W. Thayer; G. H. Park, G. T. Davis, L. M. Gammons, G. H. Thayer, F. E. Grinnell, G. W. Richardson, W. H. Waitt, L. L. Mitchell, F. W. Dixon, J. A. Mitchell, T. W. Smith. - Secretary Lewis L. Mitchell. Treasurer Andre S. Rounds. Class LeadersEzra Hamlen, W. H. Waitt, B. H. Scudder, T. O. Sherman. Local Preacher Andrew J. Dunbar. Sunday School Superintendent, B. H. Scudder; First Assistant, T. O. Sherman; Second Assistant, Lillian Lincoln; Secretary and Treasurer, J. A. Mitchell; Assistant Secretary, C. E. Redfern; Librarian, C. E. Drinkwater; First Assistant, L. M. Gammons; Sec- ond Assistant, Clifford Davis; Third Assistant, Clarence Gammons; Chorister, C. E. Drinkwater; Pianist, Clara Clark; Secretary Sunday- School Board, Lillian Lincoln; Sunday School Committee, O. L. Baker, N. Smellie, E. W. Cobb, Lena I. Baker, Adelaide W. Cran- nage, Emily Stoddard, G. T. Davis, Elizabeth Codding, Hannah E. Willett; Teachers, Josephine D. Southwick, Mary A. Baker, Lena Lewis, Lena Baker, Ezra Hamlen, Clara Clark, Annie B. Dickerman, Mary A. Scudder, Lucy W. Grinnell. Lilla R. Clayton, Eliza C. Strang, Rachel A. Stenhouse, Henrietta E. Davis, Thomas W. Smith, Lewis L. 2 1 2 *OL' I 'EXIR HIS TOR ) '. Mitchell, Mary M. Gushing, Maria E. Farrington, Thomas O. Sher- man, John W. Thayer, Benjamin W. Scudder, Carrie D. Thrasher, Andre S. Rounds, Hannah C. Mowry, Jennie Smith, Hattie Bonner, Belle Josselyn, Alice B. Davis, Lillian Lincoln. Miss . Carrie D. Thrasher has a been a teacher ever since the organization of the school. The Sunday School superintendents have been as follows: G. O. White, J. G. Luscomb, Z. F. Jenney, E. N. Jenney, William Hutchin- son, J. J. Stanley, Joseph Hague, J. H. Codding, Ezra Hamlen, W. H. Waitt, A. S. Rounds, T. O. Sherman, W. M. Dunbar W. L. Park, E. A. Barker, J. B. Farrington, B. H. Scudder. Epworth League Chapter 656 was organized in 1889. Its first president was Walter L. Park, who held the office five years. His successor was the present incumbent. The membership is nearly ninety. President, L. L. Mitchell; First Vice-President, Mary E. Pye (deceased); Second Vice-President, Abbie F. Dunbar; Third Vice- President, Alice B. Davis; Fourth Vice-President, Lilla R. Clayton; Secretary, Andrew J. Dunbar; Treasurer, W. H. Waitt; Chorister, Lillian A. Mitchell; Organist, Mary A. Scudder. The work of the League in all departments has been character- ized by zeal and efficiency. It has been a help to the work of the church. Ladies' Social Circle This society was organized under another name in 1852, the year before the church took organic form, and has had a prosperous history. It has on its records minutes which show how much aid it gave to the Union cause in the 6o's by preparing hospital supplies, etc. It has also helped the poor in the city. In its regular work it has earned and expended thousands of dollars for the church and parsonage and current expenses. The officers are: Presi- dent, Mrs. Louisa K. Coombs; Vice-President, Mrs. Ezra Hamlen; Secretary, Mrs. J. F. Gushing; Treasurer, Mrs. J. W. Strang. King's Daughters The Central Class Circle of King's Daughters and Sons was organized May 17, 1895. They took for their motto, ''Never Alone," and for their text, "Bear ye one another's burdens." Ten women enrolled as pioneer members, but the number became eleven very soon. The first kindly act of the Circle was to give an outing party at Sabbatia Park on July 24, 1895, to members of the Old Ladies' Home. During the two years of its history the Circle has raised and expended over one hundred dollars in gifts to the church, Sunday School and to "Gordon Rest" of "The Helping Hand Society." The Circle has furnished needy families with provisions and destitute persons with clothing, besides remembering the sick with flowers, fruit, etc. At funerals gifts of flowers have been made. The two years have been filled with good deeds. The officers are as follows: Leader, Mrs. Martha W. Chace; Vice-Leader, Mrs. Sarah J. Dixon; Treasurer, Mrs. Harriet N. Hatch; Secretary, Mrs. Jose- phine Southwick. Members: Mrs. Cornelia A. Gammons, Mrs. Flora H. Gammons, Mrs. Ella M. Grinnell, Mrs. B. H. Lawton, Mrs. M. M. Scudder, Mrs. Mary M. Gushing, Mrs. J. W. Strang, Lemuel P. Gammons, John W. Gammons, B. B. Grinnell, Fred M. Scudder. FIRST M. E. CHURCH, TAUNTON, MASS. Up to the present date, July, 1897, no history of this church has ever been written, and so the data for this historical sketch are meagre and ambiguous, and we cannot vouch for the absolute ac- curacy of all the statements herein contained. Tradition saith that the Rev. George Whitefield preached in the Congregational Church in Taunton during the pastorate of the sixth minister, the Rev. Josiah Crocker, either on the oc- casion of his third visit to Amer- ica in 1744 or on his sixth tour in 1764. In 1830 "Father Dane" and the Rev. Amos Binney had charge of the "Mansfield and Taunton" circuit. As early as this, Methodist meetings were held in the old Town House, on Dean Street. Messrs. Solomon Woodward, Edmund Anthony, John Haskell, Mr. Lindsey and a few others were Methodists and probably organied a class-meeting at the Weir. At all events, class-meet- ings were being held in this vicin- ity by these gentlement as early as 1833. The first Love Feast ever held in Taunton was held at the home of one of these gentlemen, Mr. Solomon Woodward, on Main Street, in the year 1833. Mrs. Mary Chace, still living, atended that service. Before this church was organized or there was a preacher stationed here from the conference, the people enjoyed hearing occasional ser- mons from, such men as the Rev. Amos Binney, David Culver, War- ren Emerson, John D. Baldwin, C. D. Rogers. At about this time Messrs. Anthony, Woodward and Haskell came from the Green and started meetings in the house of a colored woman named Mitchell, at what is now known as Happy Hollow. These services were held at 5 o'clock Sunday afternoons, and resulted in the conversion of a very large number of persons heads of families as well as the younger people and these people constituted the nucleus of that church, which was soon after organized here at the Weir. The first minister to be stationed here by the conference was the FIRST CHURCH, TAUNTON. 214 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Rev. Samuel Coggshall, D. D., in 1834, who set himself to the task of raising funds wherewith to build a church. He was successful, and the first edifice was begun in the same year, 1834, and finished and dedicated in 1835. According to records in the office of the Register of Deeds for the city of Taunton, the grantor of the land on which the church was built was one Seth Williams, and the trus- tees to whom the land w r as deeded in trust were the fol- lowing persons: Edmund An- thony, John Haskell, William Warren, William Read, Jr., Abiathar White. This deed was dated October 25, 1834. Abiathar White was a builder FIRST CHURCH PARSONAGE. and contractor; he built the North Dighton church edifice and may have built that of the First M. E. Church at the Weir. Such prosperity attended this church, spiritual and financial, and such was the numerical increase that as early as 1846, or in a dozen years after its organization, the church building was enlarged, during the pastorate of the Rev. William Livesey. A parsonage was built on First Street about the year 1850, which REV. W. A. LUCE. MRS. W. A. LUCE. was afterwards sold and the present parsonage, next to the church on Weir Street, was bought. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 215 The church edifice was enlarged and almost entirely rebuilt the work having been commenced during the pastorate of Rev. C. H. Titus, in 1868, and finished the next year, 1869, or during the first year of the Rev. Lewis B. Bates' administration. The church building M. A. DART, Sunday School Superintendent. LLOYD W. PRATT, Epworth League President. was moved further back from Weir Street, and underwent such exten- sive changes that very little of the original building remains. The church was re-dedicated June 10, 1869, the Rev. C. S. Hare, REV. G. W. KING, Ph. D., AND WIPE. Pastor 1892-96. D. D., of Boston, preaching the sermon. Messrs. Jacob Burt and Calvin Presbrey are the oldest living members, having joined the church in 1845. Mrs. Mary C. Patten, who lived 100 years, lacking one day, joined this church by letter in 1852, was a regular attendant 2l6 SOUVENIR HISTORY. for more than forty years, and during the most of this time was superintendent of the infant department in the Sunday School. Her property on Weir Street was left to the church in her will, and quite a sum of money from Mrs. Patten's estate will go, in equal shares, to the Missionary Society and to the Conference Claimants Fund of the N. E. S. Conference when the estate is finally settled. Mrs. Mary W. Chace, another "Mother in Israel," still lives, for forty-two years a member and an earnest and conscientious worker. Mr. Henry F. Cobb was a very loyal and devoted member of this church for half a century. He loved the church. Mr. William H. Merrill was long a member, and as trustee, steward, class leader and Sunday School superintendent served the church faithfully and well. Mr. Benjamin Wilbur was treasurer of this church for many years, an exemplary Christian and efficient worker. Other prominent members were Samuel Miller, John P. Crane, Lemuel T. Talbot, Job Chace and John S. Thomas. This is the mother-church of Taunton. Metho- dism is today large, prosperous and influential, numbering in her membership many strong and wise and great men, and women, too. PASTORS. 1834-35. S. W. Coggesall, D. D. 1857-58. Charles Nason 1835-36. Rufus Spaulding 1859. S. W. Coggshall 1837. Daniel Fillmore, C. S. 1860-61. J. P. Benton Macreading 1862-63. N. P. Philbrook 1838. Mosely D wight, Rufus 1864-66. J. D. King Spaulding 1867-68. Charles H. Titus 1839-40. E. B. Bradford 1869-71. Lewis B. Bates 1841-42. Lewis Bates 1872-74. Charles Young 1843-44. T. D. Butler 187=5-76. Angelo Canoll 1845. D. Webb, J. Parkin- 1877-78. E. McChesney son 1879-81. H. A. Cleveland 18/16. William Livesey 1882-83. C. W. Gallagher 18/17-48. T. M. Worcester 1884-86. S. McBnrney 18/10-50. Paul Townsend 1887-88. H. B. Cady 18=51-52. S. C. Brown 1889-91. E. C. Bass 18^3. G. M. Carpenter 1892-96. G. W. King i8=u. Sanford Benton 1897 W. A. Luce l8 55-5". Henry Baylies PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees George E. Wilbur, W. E. Walker, Jacob Burt, C. H. Lincoln, A. W. Parker, L. B. West, M. A. Dary, John Paull, W. N. Parker. Stewards George W. Barrows, J. L. Presbrey, H. G. Leonard, W. D. Richardson, C. W. Robinson, Robert P. Weller, Lloyd W. Pratt, John H. Staples, Robert B. Pickering, Charles T. Sabine, George E. Pierce, E. F. Morton, W. L. Evans. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 217 Class Leaders C. W. Robinson, Mrs. Cora L. Brownell. Superintendent Junior Epworth League Mrs. M. L. Bicknell. Ladies' Aid Society President, Mrs. L. B. West; Treasurer, George W. Barrows; Collector, W. N. Parker; Pew Renter, C. H. Lincoln; Choir Master, Charles R. Park; Organist, George Hatha- way; Sexton, Charles Fisher, residence, 100 Somerset Avenue. Sunday School Superintendent, M. A. Dary; Assistant Superin- tendent, Chester Robinson; Secretary, Mrs. D. L. Hamlen; Treasurer, W. H. Thomas; Librarian, Allie Smith; Superintendent Infant De- partment, Mrs. Flora J. Dary; Librarian Infant Department, Gertie Staples. Teachers, Alice Lincoln, Fannie Briggs, Ida G. Barrows, Mrs. Alice Staples, Fred Boardman, Mrs. Cora Brownell, Mrs. Henry G. Leonard, Annie V. Strange, Nellie Drew, Mrs. Anna Blackwell, Mrs. Abbie J. Perry, Mary Barrows, Mrs. Mabel Bicknell, Mrs. Almira Haskins, John Paull, Mrs. Emeline B. Welch, George W. Bar- rows, W. D. Richardson, Lillie Carey, George E. Pierce, Mrs. Martha A. Morrison, Mrs. George Barrows, Robert Weller, Lizzie Dunbar, Ethel Reed, Mrs. M. A. Dary, Mrs. L. B. West, Mrs. Ella P. Merrill, Mrs. Harry Bragg, Marjie Walker, L. B. West, Mrs. A. H. Francis, Mrs. Lydia Blake, Mrs. A. Boardman, Maud Dupee, Lizzie Irving, Mrs. Ella A. Luce. Epworth League President, Lloyd Pratt; First Vice-President, Nellie B. Drew; Second Vice-President, Mrs. Mabel Bicknell; Third Vice-President, Mrs. Abbie J. Irving; Fourth Vice-President, W. D. Richardson; Secretary, S. Lizzie Dunbar; Treasurer, George E. Boardman. ^>:-;> :'-', C^lfe $ ?&*&**'* RAILROAD PARK, YARMOUTH CAMP-MEETING. GRACE M. E. CHURCH, TAUNTON, MASS. This church owes its existence to the late Captain W. H. Phillips, whose portrait accompanies this sketch. He purchased the church and parsonage, previously owned by the Free Will Baptists, and gen- erously gave them the opportunity to redeem the property, which,, however, they were unable to do. Their pastor, Rev. Samuel Mc- Keown, himself a generous contributor toward the building of the church, together with several of the members, expressed a willingness to become Methodists and thus to continue worshipping in the same GRACE CHURCH, TAUNTON. building. Accordingly, with the approval of Captain Phillips and of the Presiding Elder, Rev. W. V. Morrison, D. D., a Methodist- Episcopal church was organized, consisting of twelve members from the Free Will Baptists and thirteen from other Methodist-Episcopal churches. The dedication service was conducted according to the Methodist ritual, December 3, 1874, Dr. E. Tourjee of Boston con- ducting the music, and Rev. L. B. Bates, D. D., preaching the ser- mon. At the suggestion of Dr. Morrison, the new organization was named Grace church. The pastor, Rev. S. McKeown, continued in charge until the ensuing annual conference, April, 1875. The burden of the cost of the property has been from the first sustained by Captain Phillips, the church paying no interest. During SOUVENIR HISTORY. 219 CAPT. W. H. PHILLIPS. the pastorate of Rev. E. D. Hall an effort was made to reduce the indebtedness. Together with his family, by whom his good works are continued, Captain Phillips built and gave to the church a beau- tiful and commodious chapel adjoining the rear of the church building. This was dedicated January 21, 1892, and is a memorial to his late grand- daughter, Fannie W. Montgomery. The church and chapel, built of brick, and the parsonage, a tasteful, commo- dious frame building, form a pleasing group, delightfully situated at the junction of Somerset avenue and Weir street. Together also they furnish abundant facility for every branch of church work at present, as well as for future growth. As a result of meetings held, chiefly by members of this church, at Happy Hollow, east of Taunton River, a building named Parker Chapel was erected during the year 1895, where services are regularly maintained under the direction of Grace Church Quarterly Conference. The Sunday School has always been successful. Its nucleus was the Free Will Baptist Sunday School, whose superintendent, A. J. Lawrence, became the first superintendent under Grace Church. The order of Superintendents is: To 1877, A. J. Lawrence; 1877, R CV - W. T. Worth; 1878, G. F. Gavitt; 1879, J. N. Pierce; 1880 to 1884, E. F. Anthony; 1884, Rev. E. F. Jones; 1885, J. L. Meri- gold; 1886 to 1889, A. N. Dyer; 1889, C. J. Hart; 1893 to 1895, C. F. Luther; 1895, L. L. Smith; 1896, C. F. Lu- ther; 1897, E. G. Chick. The Ladies' Aid Society was organized in 1875 and has been a great social as well as financial help to the church. The Young People's Chris- tian League was organized in GRACE CHURCH PARSONAGE. 1887 an d became Chapter 325 of the Epworth League at the organization of that body. 220 SOUVENIR HISTORY. A branch of the Woman's Home Missionary Society was organ- ized in 1887, which has continuously prosecuted its benevolent work. The church has enjoyed a good degree of spiritual prosperity. A REV. B. F. SIMON. MRS. B. F. SIMON. gracious revival occurred during the first few months of its organiza- tion, under the pastoral work of Rev. Samuel McKeown and the leadership of the evangelist, Mrs. H. D. Walker. Occasions of special revival have been frequent and permanently beneficial, besides which E. G. CHICK. Sunday School Superintendent. E. S. YOUNG. Epworth League President. the ordinary methods of church work have been rewarded by many conversions. From this church several young men have entered the Christian ministry. Many of its members have joined the church SOUVENIR HISTORY. 221 triumphant, yet the original twenty-five are now represented by over three hundred members and probationers. Among the workers not previously mentioned who have gone from the membership of this church to their final reward may be named Israel Allen, whose work was successful in all departments of church activity, and John Seekell, who is remembered as one of the founders and generous supporters of Grace Church. PASTORS. 1875. S. McKeown 1885-87. W. J. Yates 1875-78. W. T. Worth 1887-89. E. L. Hyde 1878-80. S. J. Carroll 1889-92. H. B. Cady 1880-83. E. D. Hall 1892-97. E. F. Clark 1883-85. E. F. Jones 1897 B. F. Simon PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees J. F. Montgomery, H. L. Babbitt, Miles Dean, B. F. Cunningham, J. L. Merigold, C. F. Luther, W. B. Ashley, Joshua Gould. Stewards A. J. Lawrence, A. E. Blake (Dist), Mrs. F. W. Phillips, Mrs. I. L. Montgomery, Mrs. S. A. Read, H. W. Morris, Philip Buffington, C. F. Luther (Rec.), J. W. Hammond, B. F. Thur- ber, C. J. Hart, Miss E. J. Whiting, Mrs. Amy C. Buck. Class Leaders A. N. Dyer, Mrs. E. A. Dyer, G. A. Grant, C. S. Thrasher. Local Preacher E. G. Chick. Exhorters H. L. Babbitt, G. A. Grant, E. S. Young. Sunday School Superintendent, E. G. Chick; First Assistant, Sam Smith; Primary Superintendent, Mrs. I. L. Montgomery; Sec- retary, Miss H. N. Newcomb; Treasurer, Mrs. W. T. Townsend; Organist, George G. Crane; Chorister, E. S. Young; Librarian, F. E. Wellman; Assistant Librarians, Miss E. M. Haradon and Miss S. A. Gross; Periodical Secretary, Fred. L. Canham. Teachers, Charles J. Hart, T. N. Taylor, George Davis, E. N. Henninger, Joshua Gould, Mrs. Cora Buffington, Mrs. Ellen Wilbur, Mrs. Estella Smith, Miss Gertrude Briggs, Miss E. J. Whiting, Mrs. Annie Francis, Mrs. E. A. Dyer, Mrs. Minnie Hart, Mrs. Almira Foster, Mrs. W. S. Geary, Mrs. Hannah Young, Mrs. Clara Canham, Mrs. B. F. Simon, Miss Cora Cunningham, Miss Lizzie Bartel. Epworth League President, Mr. E. S. Young; First Vice-Presi- dent, Mr. F. L. Canham; Second Vice-President, Mrs. H. J. Young; Third Vice-President, Miss E. J. Whiting; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. Cora Buffington; Secretary, Miss Sadie A. Gross; Treasurer, Mr. Sam Smith. TREMONT STREET M. E. CHURCH, TAUNTON, MASS. In 1884, I. N. Allen, a local preacher, visited Oakland, and get- ting a few people together, began religious services in the Worcester Street Chapel, which had been built by stockholders for no par- ticular denomination. The attendance increased and a Sunday School was established. Rev. George W. Hunt, then pastor of the Central M. E. Church, Taunton, held revival services in this chapel, Novem- ber, 1886. About twenty persons were converted and thirteen united with the Central M. E. Church, Taunton. The meetings at the Worcester Street Chapel continued. Rev. Charles Hammond supplied the pulpit for a time. His health failing, students from the East Greenwich Academy, Rhode Island, were secured until September, 1887, when Rev. James A. Wood was secured as preacher. He continued to preach here until April, 1888, when Rev. Jordan C. Wells was appointed pastor by the Conference. A meeting was held April 22, 1888, by certain persons appointed by the Central M. E. Church, Taunton, for the purpose of organizing "The Worcester Street M. E. Church," Presiding Elder C. W. Gallagher being present. This was the birth of the Tremont Street M. E. Church, Taunton, Mass. A building lot on Tremont Street was pur- chased in the fall of 1888. In 1889 the church was erected and dedi- cated by Bishop Mallalieu. The largest number of members at any one time previous to present writing was twenty-nine. Last Decem- ber, 1896, the membership was reduced to twenty-two. The pulpit was being supplied by students from Boston. The salary was three dollars and fifty cents per week ; but amid all the discouraging circum- stances God has graciously revived His church. During the last nine months the new members and probationers have increased the mem- bership over 100 per cent. The salary has been raised to at least four hundred dollars and a genuine revival spirit prevails. The heroic efforts and unwavering faith of a "faithful few" have been re- warded in this crisis period of the history of the church. The Epworth League has been brought from its grave and in- spired with new life. It has increased its active and associate mem- bership to seventy-two. REV. L. EVERETT SQUIRES. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 223 1888. 1891. 1892. 1893. PASTORS. Jordan C. Wells 1894-95- John S. Bell 1896. Joseph Simpson 1896 Harry Critchlow S. J. Paterson N. D. Bigelow L. Everett Squires GEO. H. GOULD, President Board of Trustees. JOHN PRING, JR.. Sunday School Superintendent. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees John Pring, Jr., Thomas L. Smith, Benjamin S. Peel, Samuel N. Busbee, George H. Gould, Lloyd H. Leonard, Ernest L. Withereli. Stewards Alice E. Wilmarth, Nancy H. Wilmarth, Anna E. Wilmarth, Alice A. Willis, Alice E. Gould, Amelia E. Busbee, John Pring, Jr., Thomas L. Smith, B. S. Peel, Samuel N. Busbee, George H. Gould, Lloyd H. Leonard. Sunday School Superintendent, George H. Gould; Assistant Su- perintendent, Samuel N. Busbee; Secretary and Treasurer, Sophie Wilmarth; Librarian, Herbert B. Payne; Organist, Florence A. Bus- bee; Teachers, Mrs. Anna Wilmarth, Miss Alice Wilmarth, Mrs. Alice Gould, Miss Anna F. Cummings, Miss Bertha Leonard. Epworth League President, L. Everett Squires ; First Vice-Presi- dent, William A. Hackett; Second Vice-President, Herbert B. Payne; Third Vice-President, Miss Anna F. Cummings; Fourth Vice-Presi- dent, George H. Gould; Secretary, Sophie Wilmarth; Treasurer, Charles H. Pierce. FIRST M. E. CHURCH, TRURO, MASS. Just how and when Methodism began in Truro but little can be learned. Something concerning its birth will be found in connection with the history of the Second Methodist Church in the town, as pre- pared for this volume. The picture entitled "The Second Methodist Church built in New Eng- land," kindly loaned by Shibnah Rich, author of a published history of the town, and to whom we are indebted for some of the foregoing facts, represents the first home of the So- ciety. This, says Mr. Rich, according to good authority, was built in 1794, and continued to be the home of Methodism in Truro until 1826, when THE TRURO CHURCH. it was voted to build a a new meeting-house. This building, a barn-like structure about forty feet square, with two tiers of windows, like the portholes of a ship of the line, stiff galleries on three sides, and a two-story pulpit with red doors, was finished within the year, was dedicated by the Rev. Lewis Bates, and was styled the North Meeting House, now called the Centre Church. Preaching services were held here two-thirds of the year, and at the old house one-third until 1830, when it was voted to sup- port preaching in the North Meeting House all the ensuing year. In 1845 this house was entirely remodeled. A few years ago other important changes were made, and TH E TRURO PARSONAGE. thus modernized it is a neat and tasty little church, well kept in all its appointments, and SOUVENIR HISTORY. 225 when other changes contemplated in the near future, in the addition of steeple and bell are made, it will be as attractive outside as it is now within. In 1827 it was judged necessary to organize a parish meeting in connection with the church. This continued until 1889, when it was seen to be unwise and unmethodistic, and so it was decided that it should be convened no more. Marked revivals have taken place. The great revival of 1821, under Edward 'Hyde, Frederick Upham and others, was mighty in- deed; over four hundred made profession of religion, and two hun- dred and thirty-six joined the Methodist Church. After the October gale of 1841, in which fifty-seven of the citi- REV. W. D. WILKINSON. MRS. W. D. WILKINSON. zens lost their lives, a season of fasting and prayer was held by the people of the town in the Congregational Church. This was the beginning of a revival that centred in the First Methodist Church, and many were led to Him who is indeed a "refuge in time of storm." Other awakenings have occurred from time to time, resulting in the conversion of a goodly number. Some have gone to strengthen other charges, especially in the cities. Others remain faithful in the home field; many have joined the church triumphant. During the pastorate of Rev. John S. Bell, a Portuguese mission- ary visited the charge and a good work was begun among that people, resulting in the organization of a class which continues to be a power, with a decided missionary spirit. From 1795 to 1827 Methodism in Truro had no regular preacher in charge, and the names which appear in the following list of preachers, many of whom did grand work for God, include those who 226 SOUVENIR HISTORY. served during that period either as supplies or as circuit preachers. From 1876 to 1890 the Centre and South Churches were united, since which time the Society, though few in numbers, owing to the depletion of the population of the town, has loyally cared for its own work, and at this writing (1897) is an aggressive, God-fearing, and FIRST CHURCH ERECTED IN TRURO. God-loving Society, with class meetings fully sustained, good congre- gations, and all financial obligations promptly met. October 24, 1895, this church held its centennial celebration, which was a great event. A special historical address was given by Shibnah Rich. There were many other interesting features. The present pastor is closing a fine year's pastorate with many encouraging results. PASTORS. 1795-96. Joseph Snelling, George 1806. Cannon and Robert 1807. Yalley 1808. T 797- Jacob Ricklow 1809-11. 1798. Smith Weeks 1812. 1799. William Beauchamp 1813. 1800. John Merrick 1814. 1801. Solomon Langdon 1815. 1802. Edward Whittle 1816. 1803. Allen H. Cobb 1817. 1804. Alfred Metcalf 1818-19. 1805. Philip Hunger 1820-21. Elijah Willard Joel Steele Erastus Otis Joseph A. Merrill Robert Arnold Elias Marble Bartholomew Otheman Thomas C. Pierce Orin Roberts Benjamin Keith Ephraim Wiley Edward Hyde SOUVENIR HISTORY. 227 1822-23. Leonard Bennett 1840. 1824. S. G. Atkins 1841-42. 1825-26. Lewis Bates 1843. 1827. Warren Wilbur 1844-45. 1828. Benjamin Keith 1846. 1829. Abram Hoi way 1847-48. 1830-31. William R. Stone 1849. 1832-33- William Ramsdell 1850. I834-35- Enoch Bradley 1851-52. 1836-37. Thomas W. Gile 1853. 1838-39. J. R. Barstow 1854. 1855-56. 1857- ' 1858-59. 1860-62. <*"-' 1863. t. 1864. S&i 1865. k jfcgS ' Ji 1866. m *& ^ 1867-68. iff 1869. 1870. 1871-73- A mWbk 1874-7=;. d m 1876-78. 1879. mm 1880-82. ISAIAH SNOW, Sunday School Superintendent. 1886-88. 1889-90. 1891-92. 1893 Levi Woods Reuben Bowen Thomas Patten Charles A. Carter Henry Mayo Samuel Beedle Onesiphorus Robbins Theophilus B. Gurney Thomas D. Blake Edward B. Hinckley Lewis E. Dunham John W. Willett William E. Sheldon Nathan P. Selee James B. Washburn Lawton Cady Adin H. Newton Joseph Gerry Hefflin S. Smith Jason Gill Unsupplied Isaac G. Price Isaac Sherman Richard Burn Virgil W. Mattoon Charles N. Hinckley John S. Fish Charles T. Hatch John Q. Adams John S. Bell Charles H. Walter William D. Wilkinson PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Isaiah Snow, Barnabas Paine, Samuel C. Paine, Joseph Higgins, C. W. Snow. Stewards Isaiah Snow, Barnabas Paine, John Corey, Joseph Higgins, Sarah E. Lombard, Sarah A. Snow, Martha Dyer. Sunday School Superintendent, Isaiah Snow; Assistant Superin- tendent, Barnabas Paine. Epworth League President, William D. Wilkinson; First Vice- President, Mrs. W. D. Wilkinson; Second Vice-President, Mrs. R. F. Honey; Third Vice-President, Mrs. M. Corey; Fourth Vice-President, G. W. Snow; Secretary, Sarah E. Lombard; Treasurer, Mrs. C. W. Snow. M. E. CHURCH, VINEYARD HAVEN, MASS. The first Methodist who preached the Gospel on Martha's Vine- yard was John Sanders, a local preacher from Virginia. Eight years later that apostle of New England Methodism, Jesse Lee, stepped {ashore at Holmes Hole, as Vine- 'yard Haven was then called, and ito? preached to a handful of hearers in a cottage. In 1797 the first appointee set foot ashore. He and all others who followed him up to 1833 had all the island for a charge. After 1800 nothing certain is known until 1809, when Rev. E. Otis, who was stationed in Fal- mouth, preached on the island fre- quently during his two years' stay. During the pastorate of Shipley W. Wilson (1816-17) the first class meeting was formed with Hiram Chase as leader, who led it for thirty years. In the years 1821-23, John Adams, who was called "Reforma- tion Adams," was famous as a mighty revival preacher. He found 113 members and left 210. The first camp-meeting held on Martha's Vineyard was at West Chop, and was during the pas- torates of John Adams and Caleb Lamb (1826-27). In 1833 the first M. E. Church was erected. Before this the congregation had worshipped in a meeting-house used alike by the Congregationalists, Bap- tists and others, and was a private concern. From 1833 to 1856 the pas- tors preached at Vineyard Haven and Chilmark. The first parsonage was built during the pastorate of Rev. O. Robbins (1839-41). VINEYARD HAVEN CHURHC. VINEYARD HAVEN PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 229 During the pastorate of Rev. A. B. Wheeler (1845-47), the present church was built. The name of the charge was changed during the pastorate of REV. J. E. DUXBURY. MRS. J. E. DUXBURY. Rev. Philo Hawkes (1870-72), from Holmes Hole to Vinyard Haven. At this time there were 136 members and 37 probationers. The pipe organ was bought at this time. JOHN H. CROWELL, Sunday School Superintendent. MISS NELLIE CALL, Epworth League President. Rev. S. F. Harriman (1885-87) wrote a history of the church from which the foregoing is taken. Rev. R. E. Schuh was the means of procuring the present par- sonage. 230 SOUVENIR HISTORY. At the last annual session of the New England Southern Confer- ence the present pastor, John E. Duxbury, was appointed to this charge and found it in good condition, and located in the most salu- brious and beautiful place in the gift of the Conference. PASTORS. 1797. Jesse Lee 1836. 1798. Joseph Snelling 1837. 1799. E. Kibby 1838. 1809. E. Otis 1839-40. 1811. William Hinman 1841. 1812. Edward Hyde 1842-43. 1813. William Frost 1844. 1814. John W. Hardy 1845-46. 1815. Benjamin Hazelton 1847-48. 1815. Benjamin Hazleton and 1849-50. John Lindsay 1851-52. 1816. Shipley W. Wilson 1853. 1817. Thomas M. Tucker 1854-55. 1818. Shipley W. Wilson 1856-57. 1819-20. Eleazer Steele 1858-59. 1821-22. John Adams 1 860-61. 1823. Francis Dane and F. 1862-63. Upham 1864. 1824. Edward T. Taylor 1865. (Father Taylor) 1866. 1825. David Culver 1867-69. 1826. John Adams and Caleb 1870-71. Lamb 1872-73. 1827. Jotham Horton, Will- 1874. iam Barstow and C. 1875-76. Lamb 1877. 1828. John C. Pierce and 1878-79. William Barstow 1880-81. 1829. John C. Pierce and 1882-84. Hezekiah Thatcher 1885-86. 1830-31. Epaphras Kibby and 1887-89. Thomas G. Brown 1890. 1832. J. J. Bliss and Lewis 1891-92. Jansen 1893-96. 1 833-34. Mark Staple '897 1835. Aaron Joselyn PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees M. L. Smith, A. W. Smith, Warren Luce, H. W. Beetle, Charles Gifford, John H. Crowell, W. S. Swift, J. M. Tabor, Owen H. Tilton. Stewards M. L. Smith, John H. Crowell, A. W. Smith, Warren Luce (D. S.), H. W. Beetle, A. H. Chesborough, W. S. Swift (R. S.), Joseph B. Brown Abram Holloway Mark Staple O. Robbins Henry H. Smith J. S. Goodrich Nathan Hale A. B. Wheeler S. W. Coggeshall M. J. Talbot George W. Sterns William H. Stetson Franklin Gavitt William Leonard Alonzo Latham F. A. Loomis M. P. Alderman William V. Morrison John N. Collier J. F. Sheffield E. Edson Philo Hawkes Tames O. Thompson J. D. King Eben Tirrell A. L. Dearing George H. Butler Wilbur F. Steele W. I. Ward S. F. Harriman George A. Grant S. M. Beale R. E. Schuh S. F. Johnson John E. Duxbury SOUVENIR HISTORY. 231 H. A. Swift, Lydia Eldridge, Fannie Smith, Almira Luce, Addie Butler. Local Preacher William G. Smith. Exhorters George E. Ames, E. W. Cook. Sunday School Superintendent, John H. Crowell; Assistant Sup- erintendent, Mrs. George Eldridge; Secretary, Miss Jennie Cleveland; Treasurer, Mrs. Norman Johnson; Librarian, Mrs. Holmes Swift. Epworth League -President, Miss Nellie Call; First Vice-President, W. S. Swift; Second Vice-President, Mrs. Norman Johnson; Third Vice-President, Mrs. Presbury Luce; Fourth Vice-President, Miss Mabel Tilton; Secretary, Mrs. Herbert Hancock; Treasurer, Mrs. Lyman Vinto; Superintendent Junior League, Mrs. J. E. Duxbury. M. E. CHURCH, WAREHAM, MASS. j It is not known that there was any Methodist preaching in Ware- ham previous to 1812. In that year two young men, Heman Perry and Covell Bangs, came from Sandwich to work here. It being known that they were Methodists, it was supposed that they could pray and exhort, consequently they were asked to hold meetings. The first meeting was held in a house now occupied by Mr. William H. Fearing. This opened the way for Rev. Benjamin R. Hoit, preacher in charge of Sandwich, to preach here. After this Rev. Frederick Upham, in charge at Monument (now Bourne) station, preached here. In 1823 some Methodists from Easton came to Wareham to work in the nail works. These were Messrs. Wilbur, Waters, and Bar- low. Others came about the same time, and Methodist preaching was more frequent. In 1826 Rev. John Newland Maffet preached frequently in pri- vate houses, and once in the Congregational Church. The people were favorably impressed by his efforts. In 1830 Ebenezer Slocum, a watchmaker by trade, came from the South and settled in Wareham. He held meetings in his shop. Some THE WAREHAM CHURCH. 232 SOUVENIR HISTORY. souls were converted, and in June, 1831, a class was formed, consisting- of Ebenezer Sloctim, Eliza Slocum, Mercy Ann Briggs, Royal Bar- low, and Relief Willis. Through the labors of Rev. David Culver of Rochester Circuit, William Livesey and James Porter, a revival began, which resulted in the addition of forty members to the class. About this time the Methodist Society was formed by William Fearing, Esq., justice of the peace. The first officers of the Society were Ebenezer Slocum, clerk; Robert Hinckley, Jeremiah Briggs, and Royal Barlow, Pru- dential Committee. The Society passed through a period of trial but was able to build a meeting-house. The building was located on the fork of two roads, one leading to Carver and the other to Tihonet. It was twenty-eight feet square and cost $1,000. The year 1834 has been chronicled in the local church records as the dark age of Metho- dism in Wareham. Prejudice against Methodism became so strong that it displayed itself in open acts of violence, and the Methodists found it necessary to remain in the church night after night. The class was reduced to five reg- ular attendants. Soon after this Mr. T. Morse moved to Tihonet and was a great encouragement to the litttle band of Methodists. About 1835 the meeting-house was moved to the Centre, through the efforts of Rev. Mr. Marsh (better known as Father Marsh). The Society now consisted of twelve members. They were poor in this world's goods, but rich in faith and in love for God and souls. In 1836 Wareham was withdrawn from Rochester Circuit, and made a separate station. Rev. Samuel Phillips was stationed here. The congregation increased and the second year of this pastorate witnessed a great revival of religion. In 1840 another great revival of religion took place through the efforts of Rev. Charles A. Carter, assisted by Revs. J. D. Butler, Washburn and Bicknell. Mr. Car- ter's name is as ointment poured forth among the people of Wareham. Here he labored in early life; here he afterwards spent many years in sickness and poverty, manifesting his faith by patience in suffering and from here his spirit passed to its reward. His influence lingers here to stimulate faith and love. THE WAREHAM PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 233 In 1841 Rev. James D. Butler was stationed here and remained until 1843. These years were marked by continuous prosperity. Many souls were converted to God, and the present house of worship was built and dedicated. The cost of the building was $3,000. There were 118 persons on probation and fifty-seven in full membership at the close of Mr. Butler's pastorate. After this the church passed through another period of trial. There were many things that were discouraging, but there were those who believed in the doctrines of Methodism, and were hopeful of good things. The good things came. In 1871 through the efforts of Rev. D. M. Rogers a chapel was REV. C. T. HATCH. MRS. J. A. ELDRIDGE, Epworth League President. at East Wareham, and the preacher began holding services in it. These services had for some time previous been held in a hall, but the Swedenborgians also held services in the hall, and the matter "was a cause of much unpleasantness. With the chapel the Methodists .got a better hold upon the people, and until this time the preacher at Wareham has done the work of pastor and preacher at East Wareham. In 1877, under the pastorate of Rev. J. G. Gammons, one hundred conversions were reported. In 1879 R CV - J- S. Bell reported fifty conversions. In 1893-96 a marked prosperity and increased membership resulted from the efforts of Rev. C. H. Walter. In April of the year 1896 Rev. C. T. Hatch was stationed here. The church property at the Centre was improved, and there was in- creased attendance at East Wareham and some conversions. 234 1836-37- i8 3 8. 1839. 1840. 1841-42. 1843-44. 1845- 1846. 1847-48. 1849-50. SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. Samuel Phillips Henry H. Smith Chester W. Turner Charles A. Carter James D. Butler Elisha B. Bradford John W. Case Samuel W. Coggshall Nelson Goodrich Horatio W. Houghton MABEL V. HATCH. Junior League Superintendent. 1851. I852-53- I8 54 . 1855. 1856. 1857-58. 1859-60. 1861. 1862-63. 1864. 1865. 1866. 1867. 1868. 1869-70. 1871-72. 1873-74. 1875-76. 1877-78- 1879-80. 1881. 1882. 1883-85. 1886. 1887. 1888. 1889-90. 1891-92. 180^-95. 1896 Edward H. Hatfield Nathaniel Bemis George W. Stearns Philip Crandon Horace C. Atwater Lawton Cady John W. Willett Moses Chase Charles Stokes George H. Winchester George S. Alexander Abel Allton Daniel J. Griffin Charles A. Carter Daniel J. Griffin Daniel M. Rogers William Livesey Edward J. Ayres John G. Gammons John S. Bell Melville B. Cummings George Hudson William F. Davis Benjamin F. Simon John Thompson John Livesey William Kirky Adoniram J. Leach Charles H. Walter Charles T. Hatch PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Galen Humphrey, A. Reynolds, N. M. Tripp, William Keyes, F. C. Keyes. Stewards Albert Humphrey, Eugene Johnson, L. W. Hall, Enoch Williams, F. B. Keyes, J. A. Eldridge, M. D., Edgar Crocker. Sunday School Superintendent, Miss Zilpha F. Besse; Assistant Superintendent, Samuel B. Tripp; Secretary, George R. Dunham; Treasurer, F. Bartlett Keyes; Librarian, Miss Mabel Thomas; Or- ganist, Everett C. Lewis. Teachers Mrs. Bessie M. Sears, Mrs. Betsey S. Seaver, F. Bart- lett Keyes, Samuel B. Tripp, Eugene H. Johnson, Everett C. Lewis. Primary Department Superintendent, Miss Nettie S. Sampson; Teachers, Miss Susie L. Thomas, Miss Lottie P. Besse, Miss Mabel V. Hatch, Mrs. Jennie F. Keyes. Epworth League President, Mrs. J. A. Eldredge; First Vice- President, F. Bartlett; Second Vice-President, Mrs. S. J. Townsend; SOUVENIR HISTORY. 235 Third Vice-President, Mrs. Leslie H. Hall; Fourth Vice-President, Miss Mabel V. Hatch; Secretary, Miss Nettie F. Sampson; Treasurer, Miss Susie L. Thomas. Junior League Superintendent, Mabel V. Hatch; Assistant Super- intendent, Nettie F. Sampson; President, Mary Sheriff; Secretary, Minnie Lewis; Treasurer, Jennie Evans. In 1831-32 the Methodist-Episcopal Society erected a church. It was located near the cemetery at Wareham, in the fork of the two roads, one leading to Carver, the other to Tihonet. The house was an humble building, twenty-eight feet square and cost $1,000. At this time the prejudice against the Methodists was so inveterate that it would sometimes manifest itself in open acts of violence. The breth- ren, who were few in number, after working hard all day in the nail factory, were compelled to spend the night in their little church to save it from destruction. One night a ladder was driven through the pulpit window, the latches of the doors pried off, windows broken, and the building very much damaged. In 1835 it was removed to Wareham Centre and enlarged. The present church edifice was dedi- cated September 8, 1842. The dedicatory sermon was preached by Rev. John Lovejoy of New Bedford. This enterprise was started and carried forward to completion during the pastorate of Rev. James D. Butler. The house is substantial and commodious and has a large vestry that is used for social meetings. The above is an extract from the History of Wareham, written by Rev. Noble W. Everett for a History of Plymouth County. CRANBERRY SCENE ON CAPE COD. Photo by E. B. Gurney. M. E. CHURCH, EAST WAREHAM, MASS. In 1872 the Episcopal-Methodists built a chapel in Agawam Vil- lage. Regular Sabbath services are held there, and they have a flourishing Sunday School. The chapel was built during the pas- torate of the late Rev. David M. Rogers, and he and his devoted wife were largely instrumental in its erection. The lot on which it is lo- cated was given for the purpose by the late Samuel T. Sherman. This chapel is now being greatly improved a room, twenty feet square, is in pro- cess of construction, which is to be surmounted by a tower,, in which a fine bell is to be placed. These improvements are the result of the enter- prise and benevolence of Mr. George E. Bryant, of the firm of Besse, Bryant & Co., Wor- cester, Mass., who gives one- half of the amount of the cost and donates the bell. Mr. Bryant has also had a platform erected with panelled front board and curtain for the choir, together with the chairs for the choir and an altar rail, all EAST WAREHAM CHURCH. W. E. ROBBINS, Sunday School Superintendent. ALFRED C. COVELL, Ex-President Epworth League. nicely finished in black walnut. Mr. Bryant's wife is a daughter of the late S. T. Sherman, who gave the lot. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 237 The religious interest at the chapel is good. Some conversions have occurred there the past winter and the attendance is good at all services. The chapel services are a part of the regular work of the Wareham charge. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees J. C. Eldridge, Jonathan Westgate, I. B. Eldridge, G. H. Bryant, Eugene Ellis. Stewards Charles H. Bryant, A. C. Covell, T. A. Morse, Mary J. Lockhart, Eugene Ellis, Mary A. Griffith. Sunday School Superintendent, William E. Robbins; Secretary and Treasurer, Clara L. Covell; Organist, Martha E. Stuart; Assistant Organist, Addie Sherman. Teachers, Mary A. Lockhart, Susan L. Eldridge, Alfred C. Covell, Lucia H. Covell, Eugene F. Ellis, Addie Sherman, Mabel F. Robbins. Primary Department, Lena Bryant, Martha E. Stuart. Epworth League President, C. T. Hatch; First Vice-President, W. E. Robbins; Second Vice-President, M. A. Griffith; Third Vice- President, Eugene F. Ellis; Secretary, Martha E. Stuart; Treasurer, Addie Sherman. TABERNACLE, YARMOUTH CAMP-M EETING. Photo by E. B. Gurney. M. E. CHURCH, WELLFLEET, MASS. Methodism came to Wellfleet as a sequence of that sing-ular prov- idence of God that brought Rev. Wm. Humbert, a local preacher, to Provincetown harbor, captain of a vessel, and kept him wind bound for several days. This man believed in occupying until the Master came, and he preached every even- ing while thus detained. Very soon after Mr. Humbert's visit, Rev. George Cannon was stationed at Provincetown. He was followed by Rev. Joseph Snelling and Rev. Robert Yalla- lee. The latter was the first min- ister of the Methodist-Episcopal Church to hold meetings in Well- fleet. He came in 1797 in much the same way as Paul went into Macedonia, by invitation and the prompting of the Holy Spirit. He was followed in occasional visits by Revs. Jacob Rickhow, Smith Weeks, John Broadhead, Joseph Snelling, Edward Whittle, Allen H. Cobb, Philip Munger and Elijah Willard, all of whom were devout, self-sacrificing men of God. The first class was organized in 1802, and consisted of three members Abigail Gross, Thankful Atwood and Lurana Higgins a trio of faithful women. Like Lydia, "the seller of purple," their "hearts were opened by the Lord that they attended unto the things which were spoken." The church owes much to the fervent prayers and Christian zeal of these women, one of whom lived to see the class grow into a membership of over three hundred. Besides their fervent piety, a prominent characteristic of the believers in this THE WELLFLEET PARSONAGE. THE WELLFLEET CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 239 early period was that when a gospel minister came along, they heard the word to be doers also, and the Lord was with them and their prayers and labors were not in vain. In 1804 they had a revival that brought quite a number into their fellowship. In 1806 they had a gracious season of refreshing and ingathering. In the earliest records we read, "From this revival a gradual increase of religious influence followed." In fourteen other instances the church has enjoyed special sea- sons of revival interest, when the converts have been numbered by the scores and frequently by the hundreds. The most notable one was in 1841, when 130 were born into the kingdom in one week. During the revival at least 175 professed con- i r REV. F. L. BROOKS. MRS. F. L. BROOKS. version and gave some satisfactory evidence, many of whom have been bright and growing Christians ever since. Until 1817 the society had no church building. Their place of worship was in private dwellings. Their sacrament altar had been rough planks placed across chairs; yet the gospel was as sweet and powerful and the commemoration of the suffering and death of our Lord was as precious as in costly edifices. The first building dedicated, November, 1817, was modest in the extreme, being 30x40 feet, with bare floors and uncushioned seats. The society increased so that in 1829 this building was enlarged, with side galleries and one opposite the pulpit for the choir. Again, in 1842, the house was too small, and many thought that a more con- venient and pleasant location could be found, and the present site was purchased. In 1843 tne work of pulling down and removing be- gan. The new building was 57x67 feet, containing 118 pews, with 240 SOUVENIR HISTORY. galleries as before. The basement was of brick, with two vestries,. one seating 300 and the other 100. In 1863 the house was again remodeled at an expense of $14,500,, making one of the largest and most convenient churches on the Cape at the time. On the evening of February 28, 1891, during a tempest,. the old church was set on fire by lightning and entirely consumed. With only $3,000 insurance money the society heroically undertook the building of the present church edifice, which was completed and dedicated January 26, 1892, at a cost of $8,800, with all bills paid. The Sunday School was organized in 1827 and divided into three sections, one meeting at the church, one at the house of Joshua Hamblen on the "Neck," and one at the "Island Schoolhouse." In PHILIP HIGGINS, Sunday School Superintendent. S. NELLIE HIGGINS, Epworth League President. these three sections the membership numbered about twenty. It soon increased so that in the following year they reported ninety. The school has kept pace with the prosperity, growth and decline of the church and now has enrolled a membership of 131. The first camp-meeting on the Cape was held at South Wellfleet in August, 1819. The power of God was wonderfully displayed among the people. Persons from this meeting went to their homes in adjoining towns to be witnesses of Christ's power to save. This was especially true in Eastham, where up to this time no Methodist preacher had been allowed to work. The interest manifested so in- creased that Eastham was made an appointment on Wellfleet Circuit the following year. In 1807 Wellfleet was made an appointment on Harwich Circuit, with Joseph Steele preacher in charge. In 1828 Wellfleet became a SOUVENIR HISTORY. 241 station by itself, and so continued up to the present Conference year. The Providence Annual Conference held its session in March, 1868,. with this church. It was largely attended and cordially entertained. We have record of at least five ministers' wives being taken from this, fold. Two members of this church, Rev. and Mrs. N. S. Hopkins,, have gone as missionaries to foreign lands and are now working in China. Rev. A. P. Palmer, writing in January, 1877, says: "It has been the work of this church to raise up men and women to serve other churches. In Philadelphia, especially in one church, Wellfleet has a very good representation. In the churches of Boston and New York and many other cities in all directions, Wellfleet's sons and daughters are found." An exodus of the people occurred as early as 1824. The church has been embarrassed all through its history because so many of its members have removed on account of the limited means of sup- port in Wellfleet. This has been especially true "since business went down." It is pathetic indeed to hear the old members speak of the "good old days" gone by, when, as one said, "No place in the fishing- community could boast of a superior fleet, numbering from 75 to 100 sail of vessels. No fleet sailing from any port observed the Sabbath as the Wellfleet. They would lay, during the Lord's day, under fore- sail, and on this account were often referred to as Bible faces." Only one lone vessel now reminds the people of what once was their joy and support. The Epworth League was organized April 4, 1890. There ex- isted previously to this date a society known as the Young Folks' Literary Society, organized by Rev. Charles S. Davis in September, 1888. The League has a present membership of 71 and is doing, as in the past, efficient work. PASTORS. 1807. 1808. 1809-11. 1812. 1813. 1814. 1815. 1816. 1817. 1818-19. 1820-21. 1822-23. 1824. 1825-26. Joel Steele Erastus Otis Joseph A. Merrill Robert Arnold Elias Marble Bartholomew Otheman Thomas C. Peirce Orin Roberts Benjamin Keith Ephraim Wiley Edward Hyde Leonard Bennett S. G. Atkins Lewis Bates 1827-28. 1829-30. 1831. 1832. 1833- I834-35- 1836. 1837-38. 1839. 1840-41. 1842-43. 1844-45- 1846-47. 1848. Joel Steele B. F. Lambord N. S. Spaulding S. B. Hascall Hector Brownson Warren Emerson B. F. Lambord Heman Perry I. M. Bidwell Paul Townsend Jonathan Cady G. W. Stearns John Lovejoy Cyrus C. Munger 242 1849-50. 1851-52. 1853- 1854-55- 1856-57- 1858-59- i86o-6i. 1862. 1863-64. 1865-66. 1867-68. 1869. 1870-72. SOLT EN I R HISTORY. Samuel Fox 1873-74. John Howson 1875-77. J. E. Gifford 1878-80. Erastus Benton 1881-82. E. K. Colby 1883. E. H. Hatfield 1884-85. Tames Mather 1886-87. John Howson 1888-90. A. N. Bodfish 1891-92. William V. Morrison 1893-94. Charles Nason 1895-96. Walter Ela 1897 A. J. Church C. S. Macreading A. P. Palmer Edward Edson S. M. Beale Samuel McBurney George A. Morse Angelo Canoll Charles S. Davis William S. Fitch Edwin D. Hall George W. Elmer Frank L. Brooks PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Thomas A. Higgins, Alfred Smith, Philip Higgins, L. Dow Baker, James L. Gordon, L. A. Newcombe, Darius A. New- combe, James M. Mott, F. H. Pervere. Stewards Thomas H. Lewis, Philip Higgins, George W. Hard- ing, John A. Swett, Henry Baker, Thomas A. Higgins, Austin E. Dyer, James L. Gordon, L. A. Newcombe, Uriah Rich, Levi L. Hig- gins, L. Dow Baker. Sunday School Superintendent, Philip Higgins; Assistant Sup- erintendent, James L. Gordon; Secretary and Treasurer, Alvin L. Wiley; Librarian, Albert Davis; Assistant Librarian, Georgiana Davis. Committee Mrs. William Smith, Mrs. William H. Young, Mrs. A. A. Knowles, Mrs. George W. Williams, Thomas A. Higgins, Levi L. Higgins. Teachers James L. Gordon, Sarah Collins, Ellen Baker, S. Nellie Higgins, Lizzie Higgins, Hannah Newcombe, Lillian Brooks, Martha Pervere, Jane Stauning, Sarah Hopkins, Edith Cobb, Mary Douglass, F. L. Brooks. Epworth League President, S. Nellie Higgins; First Vice-Presi- dent, Edith Cobb; Second Vice-President, Eva Baker; Third Vice- President, Mary L. Douglass; Fourth Vice-President, Emma F. Par- sons; Secretary, Nellie Pierce; Treasurer, John Swett; Superintendent of Junior League, Edith Cobb. M. E. CHURCH, WEST DENNIS, MASS. Methodist preaching was first heard in this place in 1833. The heralds of free salvation, Rev. Messrs. Sanderson and Britt, known as sons of thunder, from Bridgewater to Provincetown, began Methodist preaching here in a schoolhouse, where C. N. Hinckley, now a mem- ber of the N. E. S. Confer- ence, taught school. The estab- lished Church (Presbyterian) was so bitter towards the ranting, shouting Methodists that some locked their wives out of doors when they attended the meetings. Conversions were numerous, a class was formed, a parish society organized, and in 1835 a church costing $2,000 was built. Captain Elisha Crowell gave the lot, which was staked out by himself and his wife, Roxanna. Rev. William Bai- ley preached the dedicatory ser- mon. Rev. Benjamin Swift was pastor, Browning K. Baker, class leader and chorister. The ex- penses of preaching were met by the annual sale of pews, a custom continuing to the present. In 1873, during the pastorate of Rev. Edward Edson, the church was changed from Protestant-Methodist to Methodist-Episcopal, and the fine parsonage was built during the pastorate of A. E. Hall. Most of the pastors did faithful work and saw souls saved. The church has ex- perienced many trials and seen great changes. The house has been three times enlarged, and both church and parsonage are among the best in New Bedford District. The salary has varied from $300 to $1,200, according to THE WEST DENNIS CHURCH. THE WEST DENNIS PARSONAGE. 244 SOUVENIR HISTORY. the business of the place. The names Baker, Crowell, Loring, Childs, Thatcher, and Chase suggest monuments in history and pillars in the church. These names stand for the men and Avomen who were always ready to give money for church building and REV. J. T. DOCKING. MRS. J. T. DOCKING. for sustaining the minister, attending all the means of grace and pray- ing for the success of Zion. The memory of their good deeds still lingers, although most of the fathers have been gathered home. During the present year great and important improvements have' been made in the church property. A very convenient new chapel has been built, with an opening from the main audience room, having also a ladies' parlor. The audience room itself has been wholly refurnished with new carpet, new stained glass win- dows and beautiful new antique oak circular pews. These improvements have cost about $2,500, and all has been paid. While these pages are passing through the press a gracious series of revival services are being held in the church, from which glorious results are anticipated. s. COVIL, Sunday School Superintendent. PASTORS. 1 873-75. Edward Edson 1875-78. Almon E. Hall 1878. R. W. C. Farnsworth 1879-80. Sam'l M. Beale SOUVENIR HISTORY. 245 1881-82. 1883. 1884-86. 1887-88. 1889-90. Asa N. Bodfish Merrick Ransom George A. Grant Charles S. Morse W. H. McAllister 1891. D. N. Stafford 1892-93. R. M. Wilkins 1894-96. J. G. Gammons 1897 J. T. Docking PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees E. E. Crowell, Sears Crowell, S. C. Studley, Andrew Baker, Alexander Baker, P. H. Crowell, Horatio B. Baker, O. K. Baker. Stewards S. Covil (R. S.), E. E. Crowell, H. P. Crowell (D. S.), S. C. Studley, A. Baker, O. K. Baker, Willard Crowell, R. D. Kelley, Mrs. M. K. Kenyon, Mrs. Olive Baxter. Sunday School Superintendent, S. Covil; Librarian, William Lor- ing; Secretary, May Darling; Treasurer, Hattie Baxter; Organist, Lizzie Kelley; Chorister, R. Ina Crowell. Teachers, E. E. Crowell, Lillian Kelley, Mary Covil, J. T. Docking, Hattie Baxter, Sophia Crowell, Olive Baxter, Ida Pickering, Mercy Kenyon, Roderick Kel- ley, R. Ina Crowell, Addie Garfield. Christian Endeavor -President, R. Ina Crowell; Vice-President, Addie Garfield; Treasurer, Hattie Baxter; Secretary, Ida Love; Corresponding Secretary, Sadie Baxter. M. E. CHURCH, WEST FALMOUTH, MASS. In the year 1850 one of the Falmouth ministers came to the vil- lage and held a meeting, the result of which was a number of con- WEST FALMOUTH CHURCH. versions, among which were Captain J. H. Bowman and wife and Mrs. E. S. Wicks and J. M. Lumbert. This revival was carried on 246 SOUVENIR HISTORY. by others, persons coming from different parts of the town. Marshal Grew was one of these earnest workers. A class was formed with E. Packard as leader. Some of the young converts were forbidden to attend this class, but the difficulties they encountered made them all the stronger. Rev. William H. Stetson preached here in the old schoolhouse in 1852. In 1854-56 Josiah C. Allen was ap- pointed here and at East Falmouth. It was not until 1857 that an organization w r as perfected. In that year a building committee was chosen composed of Asa S. Tobey,Braddock Baker, Gideon H. Baker, Reuben Landers and Silas J. Elclred. They employed Alvin Crow- ell to erect a church. The first mem- bers, who were dismissed from the Fal- mouth church, numbered twenty-two. The church was completed and dedicated in 1857, the first pastor in the new church being Charles A. Carter, who remained two years, 1858-59, returning again in 1863 and remaining until 1865. Under the pastorate of Rev. Moses Brown a gracious revival REV. H. G. CURLESS. J. H. BOWMAN, Sunday School Superintendent. AMASA BAXTER, Epworth League President. came to the place. His name is often mentioned by the older mem- bers. The church, though not strong, has more than double the SOUVENIR HISTORY. 247 number of members it had at its organization. The young people are among its most efficient workers. The membership numbers forty- six and two probationers. PASTORS. 1858-60. Charles A. Carter 1887. A. C. Bell 1860-62. Edmund Colby 1887. Benjamin C. Gillis 1863-64. Charles A. Carter 1887. Thomas Whiteside 1865-67. Richard Dorr 1888. George M. Meese 1867-69. A. S. Edgerly 1889. T. L. Rounds 1870-71. Moses Brown 1890. L. H. Massey 1872-74. S. Hamilton Day 1891. J. E. Meade 1879-80. J. S. Davis 1892. E. C. Dixon 1881-82. E. H. Hatfield 1893. T. B. White 1883-84. J. O. Denning 1894 H. G. Curless 1885-86. W. H. Summers PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees J. H. Bowman, A. J. Hamblin, J. W. Avery, R. E. Bowman, C. O. Hamblin, H. M. Bowman, Amasa Baxter, S. F. Swift, Fred N. Bowman. Stewards J. H. Bowman, E. S. Wicks, A. J. Hamblin, R. L. Bowman, John West, E. A. Hamblin, Alice B. Landers, H. E. Gif- ford, E. H. Bowman, J. E. Bowman, Annie Bowman, Emily Hamblin. Sunday School Superintendent, Joseph H. Bowman; Assistant Superintendent, Hannah E. Gifford; Secretary and Treasurer, Amasa Baxter; Librarian. Roswell Gifford. Epworth League President, Amasa Baxter; Vice-Presidents De- partment of Spiritual Work, Miss Alice B. Landers; Mercy and Help, Mrs. Christina H. Crowell; Literary Department, Roswell T. Gifford; Social. Work, Mrs. Mary Bowman. M. E. CHURCH, WESTPORT POINT, MASS. * * * As early as 1818 Rev. Nathan Paine came into this village and preached in private houses and school-houses. His visits were fort- nightly. A few were converted, and formed a class, the first three members of which were Rachel Macomber, Mary Underwood, and Betsey Cornell whom Paine baptized. The latter was succeeded by Rev. Calvin Brewer, who in turn was followed by Revs. J. W. Chase and D. Dorcester. The present church society was formed in 1830 with the following members: Abner Davis, Israel Macomber, Simeon Macomber, Edward Hazard, Otis Macomber, Thomas Durfee, Rachel Macomber, Betsey Cornell, Mary Underwood, Dorothy Manchester and Diana Manchester. The first trustees were: Abner Davis, Israel 24 g SOUVENIR HISTORY. Macomber, and Edward Hazard, and the deed of the lot on which the first meeting-house was built was given in their name. The meeting- house was built by Joseph Cornell, was "raised" July 27, 1832, in the afternoon, and finished the following fall. It's cost was about $800. It was situated about a mile north of the present location of the church on the opposite side of the road near a huge rock. The land was purchased of Captain Barney Hicks for twenty-four dollars. After the house was built the pews were sold to aid in defraying the expenses over and above the subscriptions. A small debt remained. By the tenor of the deed the church must have been purely Methodistic, for it admits those only to preach from its pulpit who have been regularly authorized to preach in our churches, and the deed most emphatically asserts that the chapel w r as erected for the benefit of those who desire to attend the ministry of the M. E. Church. About the fall of 1842 the house was moved southward, and placed on the corner of the pres- ent village cemetery. It was enlarged and new pews put in, which were sold to defray expenses. Thomas Durfee took an active part in the enterprise, as well as the pastor then stationed here, Rev. W. Simmons. Up to 1846, or thereabouts, the charge was connected with that at Little Compton, R. I., about ten miles west. Though the two formed a circuit, the records show they were separate so far as their individual interests were concerned. The present writer is indebted to Rev. J. G. Gammons for most of the above painstaking record. During the succeeding pastorate of Rev. O. A. Farley the subject of a new- church began to be agitated during the summer of 1882. A subscription book was opened and met with unexpected success. A building committee was organized, consisting of O. A. Farley, Andrew Hicks, Horatio Brownell, Simeon Macomber, C. T. Allen. The site chosen was on the opposite corner of the cross-road from where the old church stood, but on the same side of Main Street. This gave a fine, large lot, ample for a commodious and beautiful church, with warm, comfortable barn in rear. Ground was broken on May i, 1883, and the work progressed rapidly through the summer under the efficient lead of Contractor Thomas B. Earle, of this place, aided by the wise counsel of the com- mittee. Andrew Hicks generously aided in defraying the expenses to the amount of nearly one-fourth the cost. This was a little over $5,300, and on April 2, 1884, the church was dedicated, debt free, Rev. C. B. Pitblado preaching the sermon. During the pastorate of Rev. John Livesey several beautiful stained-glass windows with others of ground glass were placed in the church at an expense of about four hundred dollars. Several valuable improvements were also made during Rev. B. F. Raynor's pastorate. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 249 Thus, under the indefatigable labors of Rev. O. A. Farley and others, the Society possesses the finest public building in the township. It is comfortably seated with 150 opera chairs and when the vestry opposite the pulpit is thrown into the main room, the church can easily accommodate three hundred people. The site of the old church, after the latter was disposed of, was thrown into the cemetery, and burial lots sold. Recently a new wall has been built along its north side, and the old one repaired, and the cemetery cleared up at an ex- pense of $265. The whole village is interested in the support of its church, and during the season an excellent class of summer visitors give material aid. Among these may be mentioned the Rev. Chas. Cuthbert Hall, D. D., who for the past twenty years has been pastor of the First Presbyte- rian Church of Brooklyn, and who has recently been elected president of Union Theological Seminary, New .York. Dr. Hall has a summer resi- dence on Elbridge Heights, and with his family is a faithful attendant at pub- lic worship, usually preaching several times during the summer to the great delight of large audiences. Until re- cently the church has been without a parsonage. In November, 1896, Mr. Simeon Macomber, who will be recalled as one of the original members, died at the ripe age of 84, and left his commodi- ous residence for parsonage purposes. PASTORS. REV. JOHN THOMPSON. 1832-34. D. Banister 1844-45. 1835. H. Holaway and D. H. 1846. Smith J 847- 1 836-37. G. Winchester and P. 1848. Crandon T &49- 1838. B. Sherman and B. 1850-51. Cady 1852-53. 1839. No Stationed Preacher 1854. 1840-41. George Winchester, B. 1855. Brown and C. Will- 1856-57. iams 1858-59. 1842. L. Harlow and W. Sum- 1860. mers and J. W. 1861-63. Casey 1864-66. 1843. N. Tainter 1867-68. A. H. Newton tlihu Grant E. A. Standish Edward B. Hinckley L. Cady Charles Hazard George Burnham Asa N. Bodfish George H. Cooley B. L. Sayer S. S. Cummings C. C. Adams C. H. Skidmore P. Crandon R. F. Macv 250 1869-71. 1872-73. i8 7 4- I875-77. 1878. 1879-81. SOUVENIR HISTORY. E. G. Babcock 1882-83. Nelson Chase 1884-86. E. C. Ferguson and S. 1887-89. Hamilton Day 1890. Solomon P. Snow 1891-94. Charles Stokes 1895-96. J. G. Gammons J 897 O. A. Farley W. E. Kugler M. Ransom John Livesey .B. F. Raynor W. D. Woodward John Thompson PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Edward M. Boyce, Cornelius T. Allen, John A. Davis, Charles P. Sowle, Jehiel Baker. SteivardsC. T. Allen, J. Baker, E. M. Boyce, Isaac H. Lake, Hannah Boyce, Rebecca Howland, Emma B. Cory, Julia A. Davis, Clara Macomber, Mary Frances Sowle. Sunday School Superintendent, Jehiel Baker; Assistant Superin- tendent, Clara Macomber; Librarians, Stacy J. Boyce, E. M. Boyce, Jr.; Teachers, Bible Class, Pastor; Infant Class, Mrs. E. M. Boyce; Rebecca Howland, Clara Macomber, M. Frances Sowle. Organist Addie E. Sowle. Epworth League President, Pastor; First Vice-President,J. Baker; Second Vice-President, Rebecca Howland; Third Vice-President, Clara Macomber; Fourth Vice-President, Laura Brightman; Secretary and Treasurer, Addie E. Sowle. M. E. CHURCH, WHITMAN, MASS. From Church Records. Some time previous to January, 1874, a movement was made by a few Methodists and other friends of the cause of Christ to establish a Methodist preaching service in Union Hall, South Abington, Mass., WHITMAN CHURCH AND PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 251 and a committee was appointed to secure subscriptions for that purpose. On Wednesday evening, December 31, 1873, a prayer-meeting was held in the office of H. H. Brigham, who opened the meeting by reading the Scriptures and offering prayer. A brother present on that occasion (Ambrose Bos worth), prayed that ''this might be the beginning of better things in our midst," and "that God would do better for them than they had faith to ask for.''* That prayer has been answered. A sufficient amount was raised to support preaching and H. H. Brigham, although not a Methodist, agreed to furnish hall, heat and REV. O. E. JOHNSON. MRS. O. E. JOHNSON. light for one year, and continued to give liberally in support of the enterprise until his death in June, 1879. The first preaching service was held January 4, 1874, and was conducted by Rev. G. H. Gregory, of the School of Theology, Boston University. Arrangements were afterward made with Rev. G. H. Baker of the same school to supply the pulpit until the annual meeting of the Providence Conference. At this session of Conference, with Bishop Peck as Presiding Bishop, March 30, 1874, Rev. E. L. Hyde was appointed preacher-in- charge of South Abington station. The first quarterly Conference was held May 8, 1874, with Rev. W. V. Morrison, Presiding Elder, in the chair. A large Sunday School was now in a flourishing condition, and everything indicated a bright future for this young society. -5- SOUVENIR HISTORY. Ground was broken for the chapel building on land given by Dunbar, Hobart and Whidden, Thursday, July 28, 1876. Building operations immediately began, and the chapel was com- pleted and dedicated, February 24, 1877, the dedicatory services being conducted by Rev. W. V. Morrison, Presiding Elder. Bishop Randolph S. Foster preached in the morning a powerful sermon from Romans i, 20: "His eternal power and Godhead." Rev. Lewis B. Bates preached in the afternoon, and a service of prayer and praise was held in the evening. During the pastorate of Rev. W. H. Starr a great work of grace began and scores of new-born souls found "peace in believing and joy H. H. TRIPP, Sunday School Superintendent. BENJAMIN HODGSON, Epworth League President. in the Holy Ghost." A parsonage lot was at this time purchased, and in September, 1885, a nice comfortable house was completed, and Rev. Silas Sprowls, the pastor, was the first to occupy it. Under the supervision of Rev. O. A. Farley, 1892-94, extensive alterations were made on the church, and there is now a commodious church building, in which from Sabbath to Sabbath gathers a congre- gation of happy people. An extensive revival interest was manifest in the early part of 1896, which resulted in many additions to the church which meant much to its future. The present membership is 146. Situated as it is in a community that is growing and in which it is the only place of worship, it will in the future as in the past prove a power in extending the kingdom of God upon earth. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 253 PASTORS. 1874-76. Edward L. Hyde 1886. Webster Millar 1877-79. William H. Starr 1886-88. James I. Bartholomew 1880-81. James G. Switzer 1889-91. Louis M. Flocken 1881-82. George A. Reader, Jr. 1892-94. Orville A. Farley 1882-84. S. Hamilton Day 1895 Oscar E. Johnson 1885-86. Silas Sprowls PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees I. F. Bosworth, J. D. Benson, E. M. Valentine, Lucius Cook, Edwin Bryant, J. E. Jennie, Ambrose Bosworth, J. G. Higgins, I. F. Thayer. Stetvards Paul Black (D. S.), George W. Bloomstrand (R. S.), Daniel Brown, H. N. Winslow, S. M. Ryder, William F. Stacy, W. R. Hammett, Herbert Tripp, Henry Bryant, Benjamin Hodgson, Harry Bosworth, Arthur K. Stevens. Sunday School Superintendent, H. H. Tripp; Assistant Superin- tendent, W. R. Hammett; Secretary, A. K. Stevens; Treasurer, Mrs. Rosie L. Stevens; Librarian, S. M. Ryder. Teachers Mrs. Lillian Skaling, Mrs. Lura Blanchard, Mrs. Mary Crowell, Edwin Bryant, Miss Effie Ryder, Miss Mae Crowell, Miss Annie Brown, Miss Myra Keene, Horatio Winslow, Mrs. W. R. Hammett, Mrs. J. E. Tibbetts, Miss C. M. Pratt, Mrs. Edwin Bryant, J. E. Tibbetts, Mrs. Clara Harwood. Epzvorth League President, Benjamin Hodgson; First Vice- President, Miss Myra Keene; Second Vice-President, Mrs. Flora Tur- ple; Third Vice-President, - ; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. Ella Bryant; Secretary, Miss Effie Ryder; Corresponding Secretary, Mrs. W. R. Hammett; Treasurer, Harry Bosworth. DECEASED MEMBERS OF OUR CONFERENCE. T. B. GURNEY. A. W. SEAVEV. C. M. AI.VORD. i8 47 -'84 iS 74 -'86 iS5<5-'73 The dates indicate the years spent in the ministry. S. LEADER. i8 44 -'8 3 M. E. CHURCH, WOODS HOLL, MASS. Methodism early came to Woods Holl. About eighty years ago Father Otis came this way as a herald of the gospel. Subsequently Methodist preachers came from Falmouth and held occasional ser- vices in the village schoolhouse. These services were well attended, WOODS HOLL, CHURCH. but no organization was effected, and those who were converted joined the society at Falmouth. The social meetings and the Sunday School were held in private houses. The home of Marshal Grew was made to resound with the voice of prayer and praise for twenty years. Mr. Grew was a pioneer Methodist, who knew in whom he believed, and the fulness of his joy and confidence in Christ often found expression in a hearty shout. His home was one of the familiar stopping places for the early preach- ers, who found there a Christian welcome and hospitable reception. Mrs. E. E. Swift, the daughter of Mr. Grew, and the oldest living member, often received the Sunday School into her own house. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 255 The class meeting was held at the home of Sanford Herendeen, an old patriarch of the church, who passed over to his reward about two years ago. He is said to have been a man powerful in the Scrip- ti res and abundant in labors. Often, after a hard day's work, he and Father Grew would walk several miles and hold a religious service, expounding the Scriptures and ex- horting the people. From about 1840 to 1870 he carried on his tireless ser- vice for the Master in his own house. At the last his mind became deranged as to common things, but he seemed to retain all his old religious power and a mind remarkably clear and discern- ing in the truths of the Bible. In 1879 the present church building was erected, being dedicated by Rev. Mr. Phillips of Xew Bedford, in September of the same year. The lot was presented by Mrs. Grew and family. The building cost about $2,500 as it then stood. In 1890, about $600 was expended in improvements and furnishings, making the present value of building and grounds about $3,300. A vestry below- the auditorium was rented REV. O. L. UTTER. T. T. HOWES, Sunday School Superintendent. C. F. HAMMOND. Epworth League President. as a store room for a few years, which assisted greatly in cancelling the debt on the building. It is now used for the Epworth League and social meetings. 256 SOi'I'EXIR HISTORY. During the first few years there was no church organization, and different ministers occupied its pulpit. On the evening of July 24, 1884, Rev. W. V. Morrison preached and organized the Methodist- Episcopal Church. The record says that nine persons were recog- WM. F. DONALDSON, Layman. SANFORD HENDERSON, Layman. nized as members, having been connected with other Methodist churches. Three were received into full membership and nine were received on probation, among them the present class leader. Of these early members, eight still remain in the church, some have moved away and some have joined the church triumphant. Rev. R. H. Dorr was appointed pastor and Vinal N. Edwards the first class leader. During the pastorate of Rev. R. C. Westenberg- (1894-95) a blessed revival occurred, through which many were brought into the church. Among the number was the present Ep- worth League president. A few years ago the population of the town was decreased by the failure of an important business enterprise, and with it the member- ship of the church, which now numbers thirty. The church was probably never more harmonious than at the present. All depart- ments of work are carried on and all is free from debt. PASTORS. 1884-85. 1885-87. 1887-88. 1888. 1888-89. 1889-91. Richard H. Dorr J. B. Smith L. M. Flocken Henry Pearce C. E. Todd M. B. Wilson 1891-93. J. D. King 1893-94. E. W. Eldridge 1894-95. R. C. Westenberg 1895-97. Fay Donaldson 1897 O. L. Utter SOUVENIR HISTORY. 257 PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Henry M. Grew, William F. Donaldson, George E. David, H. C. Googins, C. F. Hammond, T. E. Howes, George C. Look. Stewards Henry M. Grew, Elizabeth McLeish, Mrs. Ella F. Robinson, Mrs. E. E. Swift, George C. Look, Mrs. T. E. Howes, Mrs. H. C. Googins, Mrs. James H. Davis, William F. Donaldson, George E. David, H. C. Googins, C. F. Hammond, T. E. Howes. Sunday School -Superintendent, T. T. Howes; Assistant Superin- tendent, Mrs. Clarence Gifford; Secretary and Treasurer, H. C. Googins; Librarian, Mertie Crowell; Assistant Librarian, Waldo Gif- ford; Organist, Mrs. T. E. Howes; Assistant Organist, Miss Grace Eldridge. Teachers, Mrs. Ella Robinson, Miss Minnie Nickerson, Mrs. G. C. Look and Pastor. Epworth League The League was organized November 8, 1891. The devotional meetings are held at 6.30 Sunday evenings. It is in- tended to hold a business meeting and a social each month. The present membership is twenty-seven, and the following are the officers: President, Charles F. Hammond; First Vice-President, Mrs. Ella Robinson; Second Vice-President, Mrs. T. E. Howes; Third Vice- President, Mrs. C. F. Hammond; Secretary and Treasurer, Mrs. G. C. Look. THE WOMAN'S FOREIGN MISSIONARY SOCIETY. By Mrs. Rev. J. H. James. The growth of this Society has been phenomenal. Its inception was due to the conviction of its founders that God called them to such service and it quickly spread through the churches. This history would not be complete without a recognition of the relation of the Conference to this great work. Very soon after its organization, in 1870, the first auxiliary within our bounds was formed at Brockton, Mass., after an address by Mrs. Rev. E. W. Parker, of India. Mrs. J. H. James was chosen President. During the following months local organizations sprang up on all the Districts. Mrs. Rev. James Mather, Mrs. Rev. W. V. Morrison, and others rendered valuable aid in this pioneer work. Mrs. Rev. S. L. Gracey was the first Conference Secretary and gave the work a new impulse. Her successor was Mrs. George F. Martin, of Prov- idence, whose faithful labors during several years resulted in a large increase of membership and contributions. In March, 1881, Mrs. Rev. J.H.James was appointed secretary for 258 SOI' I'' EN 1 R HISTORY. the New England Southern Conference, which position she still holds. During her first year ten new Auxiliaries were formed and 506 mem- bers were added. Year by year the work has steadily advanced. Since 1881 more than $55,000 have been raised within our Conference bounds for this object, $2,000 of this came at different times from one "Friend of Missions" whose name we are not permitted to give. A few bequests and special gifts, ranging from $25 to $1,000 each, have come into the treasury, but nearly all has come from annual sub- scriptions, the small contribution of self-sacrificing people, and the MRS. J. H. JAMES. MRS. JAMES TREGASKIS. pennies in the children's mite boxes. There are now nearly 100 local organizations with about 2,000 members. The work among children and young people is of great value. In the "Young Women's Societies," Children's "Mission Bands," and "Little Light Bearer's Circles" the workers of the future are being trained. The reflex influence of work in behalf of missions has been illus- trated in our Conference. Not only has it awakened zeal and helped to prepare women for better service on all lines, but we have been represented in mission fields by three ladies, two of the same family. Mrs. Mary F. Scranton, reared on our territory, the daughter of Rev. Erastus Benton, was the first of our missionaries in Korea, where she has labored assiduously and successfully for many years. Miss Emma J. Benton, daughter of Rev. J. T. Benton, devoted herself to the mission in Japan until under arduous labors in an unfavorable climate her health failed. She is now the wife of Rev. G. W. Elmer of this Conference. Miss Mary E. Bowen went in 1888 from Warren, R. I., to South America, where she is making a good record, especially as an instructor in our schools. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 259 Miss Josephine Carr, of Warren, R. I., made a tour of our sta- tions in India, China, Korea, and Japan, remaining some months to render, without compensation, much needed aid in the last mission. She has since been Home Secretary of the Branch, has imparted valuable information, and her addresses and her letters have cheered, encouraged, and guided many a worker. A corps of District Secretaries hard to be excelled have faithfully attended to the home work through all the'se years. The literature of the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society is specially commended. Mrs. Rev. O. W. Scott of Campello (Brock- ton), Mass., is a member of the "Literature Committee," and has con- tributed highly-prized leaves and tracts. She is also the gifted editor of that bright and helpful monthly, "The Children's Missionary Friend," that is having a very large circulation throughout the Sunday Schools of Methodism. For more than twenty years Mrs. L. A. Alderman, widow of Rev. M. P. Alderman, has been Corresponding Secretary of the New Eng- land Branch, devoting her entire time and energies to this cause. A wise counsellor, able to look at a question from all sides, thoroughly consecrated to the Master, her influence in our missions as well as in the home land has been constant benediction. Such has been the part of the women of the New England Southern Conference in the work of the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Yet not more than one-third of them have been enlisted. When will the others awake to their high privilege in helping to send the gospel to their sisters sitting in darkness ? REV. J. H. NUTTING AND HIS WORK. Rev. J. H. Nutting was born in Rhode Island, of the oldest New England stock, in the year 1841. At twelve years of age he began work as an operative in the Rhode Island Bleach Works, since which time he has been self-supporting. His preparatory education was se- cured with much difficulty and self-denial, without assistance from any educational society, in public and private schools, with private tutors. and at Eureka College, graduating with the degree of A. B. in the class of 1867. After a period of teaching he was received on trial in Providence Conference in 1870, in a class of fourteen; two years later he was ordained deacon by Bishop Ames, in a class of eighteen ; and two years later he was ordained Elder by Bishop Peck in a class of eighteen. He has always been on the effective list, has never been sick, and has never even wished to be transferred to another Con- ference. 260 SOUVENIR HISTORY. He was first appointed to his present work, that of Religious Instructor at the State Institutions at Cranston, R. I., in 1889, being the first minister of the M. E. Church to hold this or any similar posi- tion in the state. These institutions are seven in number, viz., Statte Prison, House of Correction, Provi- dence County Jail, Insane Hospital, Alms House, Sockanosset School for Boys, and Oaklawn School for Girls, located at different points on a tract of some 700 acres, eight miles south of Providence, with six chapels and an aggregate population of 2,153, at the date of this writing. The Rhode Island system has many unique features, not the least of which is that all state, penal, correctional and charitable institutions are wholly beyond political control, officials of every grade being appointed for their supposed ability to do the work of their several positions, and no man being ever removed save for some cause affecting injuriously his efficiency. It may be said that the religious needs of these many unfortu- nate persons are not neglected, there being conducted among them, including Sunday-schools, from thirteen to fifteen services of worship REV. J. H. NUTTING. SOCKANOSSET SCHOOL FOR BOYS. on each Lord's day. The calls made upon Mr. Nutting on other days by those wishing personal attention are numerous, and of a character such as to tax mind, heart and strength to the utmost. SILAS S. CUMMINGS AND HIS WORK. Silas S. Cummings was born May 22, 1814. He, with five other children, were left orphans at an early age. His early oppor- tunities for education were limited. He was converted in 1837 at some Methodist meeting in Saco, Me. He felt a call to preach and left a lucrative position in the mills to enter Kent's Hill Seminary to prepare for the ministry. While in school he was sent to Montville, Me., where there had been no religious services for years. A church with forty members was the result of that year's work. In 1854 he was transferred to the New Hampshire Conference and stationed at Bristol. In 1857 he was transferred to the New England Southern Confer- ence and stationed at Portsmouth. In 1863 he was appointed chaplain of the 4th R. I. Reg't. In 1868 during a very successful pastorate at Pascoag, he was invited to be Missionary Agent of the Little Wanderers' Home, Boston. Since then he has served the Home with rare ability and usefulness. He has addressed nearly five thousand public meetings in its interest and raised tens of thou- sands of dollars for it. Countless thousands of happy hearts scattered all over the country look back in gratitude to him for his sympathy and help in saving them when young from lives of sin and suffering. SILAS S. CUMMINGS. JOSEPH H. JAMES AND HIS WORK. Joseph Henry James, Secretary of the Connecticut Tem- perance Union, was born in Mt. Holly, New Jersey, April 18, 1835. His parents were Methodists. His mother, Mary D. James, was widely known as a writer for "The Guide to Holiness," and the author -of many hymns, some of which are still highly prized. He was led to Christ in early childhood, joined the church in youth, and began his pulpit labors while yet a student at Pennington Seminary. He en- tered Wesleyan University in the class of 1857, but failing eyes pre- vented his going farther than the Sophomore class. His first charge "was Westfield, N. J. He was admitted to the New Jersey Conference SOUVENIR HISTORY. in 1856, receving his first appointment from Bishop Simpson on his twenty-first birthday. After seven years in New Jersey pastorates he was for one year Chaplain of the Third Regiment, New Jersey Volun- teer Infantry, laboring acceptably and usefully with the men at the front. At the expiration of his term of service in September, 1864, while visiting his parents, then in New England, he was invited to the pastorate of the First Church, Fall River, Mass. The next spring he was transferred to the Providence Conference. There is no one now a member of the Conference whose pastorate of his first four churches Fall River, Warren, R. I., Brockton or Provincetown, Mass. dates back of that of Mr. James. His efforts have always been to get and deliver messages from God and do faithful pastoral work rather than to elaborate discourses, and his chief usefulness has probably been in edifying Christians, though in every charge he witnessed conversions and additions to the church. Perhaps his most remarkable work was at Rockville, Conn., where a church debt of $26,000 was removed, but in each of his charges there are those who remember him and his ex- cellent wife with affectionate interest. The Connecticut Temperance Union was orgaized in 1865, with Wil- liam A. Buckingham, the noted "War Governor," as its first president. It is a non-partisan, interde- nominational organization, seeking to "promote total abstinence from all alcoholic drinks and the overthrow of the traffic in them." At the close of his pastorate in Plymouth, in 1890, Mr. James was invited to the secretaryship of the society. He has ever since devoted himself to the work of this society. In addition to public work he has kept up a large official correspondence and edited the various publications of the society. For four years these have included a monthly paper, "The Connecticut Citizen." In these arduous labors his health has been wonderfully preserved. He now resides in Rockville, Conn. JOSEPH HENRY JAMES. LOCAL PREACHERS on #&' SUPERANNUATES AND SUPERNUMERARIES. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. (There were a few whose biographies we failed to get.) GEORGE W. ANDERSON was born Jan. 19, 1846. Was converted at the age of sixteen and licensed and began to preach as a local preacher when eighteen years of age. He took the full course at Boston University, School of Theology, graduating with the class of '67. In 1867, at the age of twenty-one, he joined the New York East Conf., and in 1872 joined Providence (New Eng. South) Conf., hav- ing, among other appointments New London, Providence Trinity, and Pawtucket, First Church. One of many revivals, occurred at New London, when some two hundred and fifty persons, professed conversion. While he was stationed at Paw- tucket a long-standing debt of $6,000 was cancelled. On two different charges movements were begun, which resulted in the purchasing of parsonages. He was superannuated in 1866, and resides in Providence, R. I. CARLOS BANNING was born in Lyme, Ct., Nov. 10, 1819, and is the son of Phi- lemon and Mary (Millard) Banning. His early education, with the exception of two years at a country school when eight years old, was acquired in a cotton mill, where he spent the long hours from daylight till 8 P. M. An elder brother, however, taught the children arithmetic on Sundays, progressing "as far as The Rule of Three." When a lad in his teens a broken arm gained in a chestnutting expedition, stopped his work and changed the whole course of his life. While attending the school of Nelson Goodrich (then a student at Wilbraham, but afterward a preacher of the Providence Conference) in South Glastonbury, he and an older brother were converted under the ministry of George May. He entered Wilbraham Academy, studying summers and teach- ing winters to supply deficiencies. In this way he fitted for college, but becoming convinced of his duty to preach the gosoel, he entered the Biblical Institute at Concord instead. Graduated in 1850, and united with the old Providence Conference. He was married April 6, 1852, to Miss Harriet E. Pitman, daughter of William R. Pit- man of New Bedford, Mass. His first charge was at Federal Street (now Broadway), Providence, R. I., as its first regular pastor. In all his pastorates numbers were added to the churches; North Dighton and East Bridgewater especially being the scenes of extensive revivals, in many, instances, whole families being converted. In the spring of 1866, owing to his own ill health and continued sickness in his family, he was obliged to take a supernumerary relation to the Conference, but continued to supply the pulpit of churches as he was able. In four cf our churches he was the first pastor. Since taking a superannuated relation, he has been un- able to preach, but has been a member of the Quarterly Conference of First Church, Newport. JOSIAH TOWNE BENTON was born in Tolland, Conn., April 10, 1828. He at- tended the common schools and studied a few months in a private institution. Books have been his chief instructors and experience his school for a life time. In early manhood he began a business career but soon became conscious of a call to preach. In May, 1853, the Quarterly Conference at East Glastonbury, Conn., licensed him to preach. The following September he was placed in charge of the church in Tolland. In 1854 he joined the Conference. His appointments were Tol- land, Lyme and East Lyme, Lebanon; New Bedford, Fourth Street; Taunton, First Church; Providence, Centre Church; Stafford Springs; East Greenwich; Providence, Eddy Street; Centerville, R. I.; Thompsonville; Uncasville and Nian- tlc. In 1879 failing health compelled him to retire from active work. Nearly all his pastorates were marked by some measure of revival interest. The present church edifice at Stafford Springs was built during his pastorate there. The church property in several other charges was considerably improved under his administra- tion. For more than twenty years he has resided in Niantic, Conn. WILLIAM McKENDREE BRAY was born in Vassalboro, Me., in 1821. He was educated at Vassalboro Academy, Me., Wesleyan Seminary and Biblical Institute, Concord, N. H. He was converted in 1848 and was licensed to preach in 1849, serv- ing as pastor of Congregational churches several years. He was received on trial in the East Maine Conference in 1856, at which session he was ordained deacon. He joined the Providence (New England Southern) Conference in 1866 and was ap- pointed to Little Compton. Among other places he has been stationed at Stafford Springs, Woonsocket. Provincetown. Centenary, etc,. From 1876 to 1886 he acted as financial agent of the Conference Seminary. His charges were all blessed with revivals, the most extensive being in Little Compton, Centreville, R. I., and Mys- tic. He was made supernumerary in 1887 and superannuated in 1894. meanwhile supplying charges in New Jersey Conference. He is now residing in Navesink, N. J., aiding pastors in pulpit and revival work. Mr. Bray is the son of Rev. Sulli- van Bray for sixty years a well known minister in Maine. Two of his brothers, Horace and Charles, were members of the East Maine Conference until called to higher service. Three of his daughters married ministers, who are preaching in the New Jersey, New England and New England Southern Conferences, respectively; a brother-in-law, Dr. N. M. Wood, rendered excellent service, in the Baptist Church during his life. The aggregate of their ministerial life reached 207 years. BENJAMIN K. BOSWORTH was born Nov. 16, 1825. He was educated in the public schools of his native town and at Quinby Seminary, R. I. He entered the ministry in 1851 and joined Conference in 1856. Among his important charges were Marshfield, Provincetown. Centenary, Nantucket and Quarry Street, Fall River. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 265 Great revival interest was shown at East Harwich, Marshfleld, Provincetown, Nantucket and Sagamore. The church property was improved at Marshfleld, South Harwich, Cataumet and Quarry Street, Pall River. He took the superannuate re- lation in 1896, after forty-six years of active service and now resides in Chil- mark, Mass. DENISON LEDYARD BROWN was born in Norwich, Conn., Nov. 26, 1836. He gained his education in the public schools of Norwich, and Colchester, Conn., and was converted at Willimantic campmeeting, Sept. 6, 1860. He enlisted in Co. H, 21st Regt. Conn. Volunteers. August 8, 1862, was promoted to second lieutenant Sept. 5, 18G2, and was discharged because of physical disabilities incurred in the service. He joined Conference in 1865. At East Thompson, his first appointment, fifty-six young people were converted the first winter. This included nearly all the young people in the community. At Staffordville in the winter of 1870 there were about thirty conversions. There were revivals both winters at East Glastonbury, 1870-71. At Wapping, in the fall of 1874, the Methodist and Congregationalist churches, united in revival work, and owing to the illness and death of the pastor of the Congregational c'hurch, Mr. Brown served as pastor of both churches for some four months, and there was a general quickening of the churches, and about forty conversions, one of whom was an infidel who had not been inside a church for twenty years. During the years of '77-'79 at Warehouse Point he suc- ceeded in straightening the tangle in church property, caused by the loss of early records and gathering in and caring for the fruits of a gracious revival that pre- ceded his pastorate there. In 1881 forty conversions rewarded his work at Mys- tic. In 1882 a debt of $900 was paid and the church was remodeled at an expense of about $1,000. In 1884 at North Grosvenordale the interior of the church was remodeled, at an expense of $1,500. At Arnolds Mills, in 1890, a Christian Endeavor Society with quite a large number of associate members, became, with three ex- ceptions, all active, working Christians, in 1894 because of continued ill health he took a superannuate relation, and was pent by Rev. S. O. Benton, presiding elder to supply at Wanskuck Mission, Providence. At the close of the winter of '96, a pleasant roomy chapel was dedicated at this place as a result of earnest work on the part of Mr. Brown. This chapel was built at a cost of $1,600, with a debt at dedication of only $525. He served tor thirteen years as treasurer of Con- ference Claimants Committee. WILLIAM O. CADY was born in Stafford, Conn., May 8, 1821, educated in the public schools and graduated at Wesleyan Academy, Wilbraham, Mass. After teaching one term, he entered the minii-try, joining the Providence Conference in 1847. Some pf his most important charges were Colchester, Norwich, Rockville, Burnside and Phenix; and in all these appointments, powerful revivals of religion were witnessed. And, indeed, in all his pastorates sinners were converted to God. to whom be all the glory. "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord." SETH B. CHASE was born in Paris, Me., Nov. 30, 1818. He attended Kents Hill Academy a, part of two terms, but he sained the greater part of his knowledge, by experience in the different charges. He was converted at the age of twenty- one and joined the Maine Conference in 1846, but poor health made it necessary to discontinue work at the close of two years. Having somewhat again regained health, he entered the active ministry again in 1850, remaining ten years in the Maine Conference. In 1870 he joined the New England Southern Conference. Con- versions occurred in most of his charges especially in Strong and Norway, Me., and at Harwich, Mass., goodly numbers were brought "into the king- dom." He was superannuated in 1880 at the age of 62. He resides at present at Rocky Hill, Conn. HENRY W. CONANT was born in Mansfield. Conn., on the 14th of January, 1825. He was educated in the public schools of that town and also by private teachers. He was converted at the age of fifteen and joined the New England Southern Conference in 1852, being stationed, among other places, at Norwich. Conn., Sachem Street and East Main Street. Large numbers were converted at Bolton, Somers, and East Haddam, while conversions occurred in every charge. Under his leadership a new church was built at Bolton, and at Somers the church was moved to a new location, was repaired and refurnished, the expenses being all provided for. While he was stationed at Sachem Street, Norwich, Conn., the church debt was cancelled, while at Uncasville a parsonage costing $3,300 was bought and paid for. Through all the years of his ministry he has been identified with the temperance work, and at 'his suggestion in 1868 a moversent was com- menced which resulted in the organization of the Conference Temperance So- ciety and served for several years as its president. For fifteen years he acted, without compensation, as secretary of East Greenwich Academy. He was granted the supernumerary relation in 1888. LEWIS E. DUNHAM was born in Marlborough, Conn., Nov. 19, 1825. He was educated at Wilbraham Academy and the Theological school at Concord, N. H., now Boston University. He joined the Providence (New England Southern), Conference in 1854. The largest number of conversions occurred at Niantic, Conn., in 1866, and at North Grosvenordale, Conn., in 1869. At Staffordville. Conn., in 1864-65 a debt of $700 was paid off. At Moosup, Conn., in 1870-71 a church was built. He was granted supernumerary relation in 1872 and now resides in Provi- dence. R. I. JAMES O. DODGE was born August 7,, 1838. He was educated in a country school, three months in a year, from the age of 10 to 15 years. He entered the ministry in 1870. Revivals and conversions occurred on all his charges, espec- ially at Gurleyville, Hockanum and Attawallgan. At the last named place 75 were received on probation in one day and about 125 during one year. He was granted a supernumerary relation in 1895, and resides in Norwich 'Town, Conn. SOUVENIR HISTORY. EDWARD EDSON was born in Yarmouth, Mass., Oct. 2, 1834; was blessed with devoted Christian parents; and was converted when fourteen years of age under the labors of Rev. Nahum Tainter. He was licensed to preach by Rev. Paul Town- send, presiding elder. He prepared for college at Wilbraham, Mass., entered Wes- leyan University in 1856 and graduated in 1860. He married Miss Almira Cobb of Barnstable. He joined the Providence (New England Southern) Conference, 1861. Has been stationed at Duxbury, Ostervills. North Easton, Vineyard Haven. Chat- ham, West Dennis. Wellfleet, Taunton, Mass. ; Bristol, Pascoag, R. I. He was presiding elder of Norwich District from 1886-88. His whole ministry has been blessed with a good work of grace, and a goodly number of conversions on nearly every charge, has blessed his labors. SAMUEL FOX was born in London, Eng., March 21, 1813, and there received an academical education. He entered the ministry in the year 1843 within the bounds of the New England Southern Conference and has always served within its limits. From 1843 to 1860 he continued in regular active service. On account of failing health, he then, for two years be2ame superannuated, but returned to active work in 1862 and so continued till 1890; from that date he has been on the superannuated list. His years of active service have been, under every variety of circumstances, expanded to 45 years. His successes, revivals and enterprises, have been varied and in some of his charges, where, in the general sense, there had been no revival, yet the estimate of the standard of personal piety had been largely elevated, not only throughout the church, but the whole community. How- ever, in its broadest sense God blessed his work in various places with His con- verting power. At Wellfleet in 1850, East Glastonbury in 1853, and in Pascoag, 1857. wonderfully did the Redeeming Lord manifest His saving Grace. From 1863-68 he had the toilers of the sea under his care, as Chaplain of the New Bedford Port Society. Though brief periods only were allotted them on shore, yet he was permitted to gather in some four score; among whom were two, who have become, one a min- ister, the other a foreign missionary. He now resides in New Bedford, in his eighty-fifth year, weak in the body but strong in the love of the Saviour he has so nobly served. ALMON E. HALL was born in Stamford, Vt., Dec. 6, 1846. He was educated in the public schools until about sixteen years of age. then went to Wesleyan Academy, where he was converted, and graduated in 1867. In 1868, he entered Wes- leyan University and was graduated in 1872. 1872-73 was spent at the Theological School of Boston University, supplying at North Dighton. He joined Conference in 1873 and was stationed at Dighton. In 1874 he was stationed at St. Paul's, Providence, and in 1875-77 at West De.nnis, where during the summer of 1877 his health broke down and for ten years he was unable to do much manual labor and no mental work. The year 1876. while at West Dennis, was a blessed revival year, and scores were converted, and large numbers joined the church. In 1877 he went to Williamstown, Mass., and engaged in business, where he holds several offices of trust and honor in both church and town. He represented the Second Berkshire district, in the legislature, during the past year. He was superannuated in 1878. EDWARD B. HINCKLEY was born in Osterville, Barnstable town and county, Mass., November 7, 1826. is the son of Mr. Oliver and Louisa Crocker Hinckley. He was led to remember his Creator in the days of his youth, and like Timothy, from a child he learned to know, and love, the holy Scriptures, by the instruc- tions of his grandfathers, grandmothers, father, and mother, and faithful Sabbath school teachers, and ministers of the Gospel who taught the way cf life, and salvation, according to the Scriptures. He was converted and baptized, and joined the Church about 1840. soon after received license to exhort, and after a season in study at East Greenwich Academy, and with Rev. George W. Stearns in Barn- stable and at Newberry, Vt., with Rev. Osmon C. Baker, in 1844 he commenced to preach the glorious Gospel at Orleans, Mass. In 1S45 he was admitted to the Providence (New England Southern) Conference at New Bedford and stationed at Whittenton. In 1847 he married Miss Ruth Freeman Smith of Orleans. Mass., and was ordained deacon and stationed at Salem, Conn. He was suoerar>nuated in 1863 and now resides with his daughter in Provincetcwn. Mass. His life has been all faithfully consecrated to the work of preaching the Gospel. EDWARD LAWRENCE HYDE, youngest child of John Hyde and Lucy A. Bur- rows, was born in the old homestead at Mystic Conn, (now oCd Mystic), May 21. 1835. The Methodist itinerants were always welcome guests, to his parents, and for years they preached, in the first church built in the village and owned by his father and two uncles. He received his early education in the village schools. at the Conference Seminary, and at Christ Church Hall, Pomfret, Conn. After this he was until twenty-three years of age, engaged in his father's business. In 1859 he was converted, and received into the Methodist Episcopal church during the ministry of Rev. E. L. Stanley. In New York City he studied architecture and followed this with an art course under Johannes A. Oertel of the National Academy. During the late Rebellion he enlisted in the Connecticut cavalry, but on account of a bronchial trouble did not pass, and was discharged. He served the United States government as a draughtsman in the general inspec- tor's office in New York City. In 1868 he was called to the ministry, stationed for three years at South Somerset, Mass., where the church was remodeled from his design. Entered the theological school of Boston University, remained three years and was prime mover while there in the organization of the "Praying Band" of that school which for years did efficient work in and around Boston. In 1874 he mar- ried Imogene Adele Clarke, a native of New York, and with her entered upon the work in South Abington, Mass, (now Whitman) where they found neither church organization or church building. On this charge and at Middletown, R. I., and Middleboro, Mass., the revival spirit was effective as seen in the ingathering of many souls. He took the superannuate relation in 1889 on account of the decline of his wife's health. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 267 WILLIAM PENN HYDE, son of John Hyde and Lucy A. Burrows, was born at Mystic, Conn., February 15, 1828 was converted in 1842, and for fifty-five years has lived a consistent life as a devout Christian man. He attended the schools of his native village, was at the Conference Seminary in East Greenwich between two and three years; entered Wesleyan University at Middletown, Conn., but his health failed and he did not graduate. "Was in business for his father in Mystic, and also was in business there in manufacturing. He married June 6, 1859, Sera- phina S. Carr, daughter of William Carr and Temperance Smith. She is a direct descendant of John Tilley and his wife, Bridget Vandervel, passengers in the Mayflower, 1620, and also of Deputy Governor John Green of the Providence Plan- tations. He entered the ministry 1865, and was stationed at South Somerset, Mass., where he remained three years. In 1881 he removed with his family (his wife and eight children) to Santa Clara, Gal., and is now resident at Palo Alto, where two of his daughters are students in the Leland Stanford University. A faithful pas- tor and earnest preacher, and progressive man. JOHN D. KING was born in Leicester, Mass. Jan. 21, 1822. He was educated at the district school, and a few terms at the local academy, with one year at the Concord Biblical Institute (after having preached three years). He was li- censed as an exhorter in 1845, and in the same year was appointed to North Truro. His principal appointments were Thompsonville, New London, North Manchester, Pawtucket. Taunton First Church, Fall River First Church, New- tonville (New England Conference). Chatham and Edgartown. Revivals occured at Thompsonville, Taunton, Fall River and Edgartown. During his pastorate at Manchester, a new vestry was added to the church, also the First Church, Fall River, was raised up and a new vestry added and the audience room was remod- eled. Dr. King secured the lot for the Quarry Street Church and raised the first $2,000 towards its erection. He took the supernumary relation in 1871. In 1872 he established a Sunday School at Cottage City, then Vineyard Grove, and secured the first regular preaching in that place and subsequently organized the church provisionally in that place. He took the superannuate relation 1894. after forty- eight years of active service, and now resides in Cottage City. Dr. King has won a reputation as a professional microscropist. GEORGE H. LAMSON was born in 1839 in Lubec, Me., the most eastern town in the United States. He received his preparatory course at East Maine Confer- ence Seminary and Wilbraham Academy. He entered Boston University School of Theology in 1869. He supplied Hanover charge while at the university, and was ap- pointed to Brayton Church, Fall River, in the spring of 1871. Some of his charges have been South Somerset, North Dighton, and Mystic; his last station being South Coventry in 1892-93. In 1894 he was granted the superannuate relation and now resides in East Hampton, Conn., one of his forme- charges. DUDLEY P. LEAVITT was born in Northwood, N. H., Oct. 5, 1824. He was educated in the public schools of that town in the New Hampshire Conference Seminary, Northfield, and the Methodist General Biblical Institute, Concord, N. H. He joined the New Hampshire Conference in 1850. In 1866 he was made presiding elder of the Florida District of the South Carolina Mission Conference, and in 1886 he joined the New England Southern Conference, being stationed at New Bedford, County Street. He also served, among others, Providence, Trinity and Chestnut Street, East Weymouth and South Manchester. He has been par- ticularly successful as a revival preacher, even at his last charges, gracious re- vivals blessed his labors. He was granted the supernumerary relation in 1894 and now resides in Melrose, Mass. EDWARD A. LYON was born in Wellesley (then Needham). Mass.. December 18, 1815. He was educated in the public schools, with a few months at Wilbraham. He was .converted at the age of 16 on Old Needham Circuit, New England Con- ference, October, 1832, Abram D. Merrill, preacher in charge. He was licensed to exhort by M. P. Webster at Union, Maine September, 1838. and was licensed to preach at the Quarterly Conference at East Cambridge, Mass., April, 1839; joined the New England Conference on trial in June 1839 When this Conference was di- vided in 1840 he was one of the number set off to the new Providence (New Eng- land Southern) Conference. Of the effective years of his ministry 24 were in Mas- sachusetts, 7 in Connecticut, and 11 in Rhode Island. On most of his charges gracious revivals prevailed the most extensive of these being at Waltham, East Weymouth, North Easton, Warehouse Point and Newport, Thames Street. Ihe church at Eastford was built during his pastorate in 1846 and the church at New- port, Thames Street, was built in 1863 through his efficient labors. He was granted the superannuate relation in 1891, and resides in Acushnet, Mass. a comfort and helper to the pastor and an inspiration to the people of the place. W. V. MORRISON was born near West Middlesex, Mercer County, Pa. t Jan. 23, 1830. His early years were spent at his home on his father's farm. He graduated at Allegheny College in 1854, and at the Biblical Institute, Concord, N. H.. in 1857. He was licensed to preach in March, 1854 and joined the New England Southern Conference in April. 1857. Among his appaintments were the following churches: Wellfleet, East Weymouth, Stafford Springs, Norwich, Central Church, Bristol. Large revivals were enjoyed in his pastorates at East Weymouth, Norwich and Bristol. He was presiding elder of Fall River district from 1874 to 1877 and of New Bedford district from 1883 to 1886, twelve successive years president of Martha's Vineyard campmeeting association and five years its agent. In 1877 his Alma Mater conferred upon him the honorary degree of D. D., and in 1884 his Conference honored him by sending him as delegate to the General Conference. He was President McKinley's teacher for two yea-s in Niles, Ohio. f Q *iF LMER ^ NEWELL was born in Windsorville, Conn., Aug. 19, 1864. His miner, Kev. F. C. Jewell, was for over 30 years a member of this Conference. e was graduated from Wesleyan University in the class of 1887, and began to 268 SOUVENIR HISTORY. preach (1888) at Osterville and Centreville, Mass. He was married Dec. 4, 1889, to Miss Lucy Phinney Hallett of Centreville, Mass., whose patience in time of trial and whose courage in the midst of despair is worthy of just praise. While stationed at East Glastonbury in 1891 it became necessary for him to stop preaching for a time in order to regain his health. He served as Principal of the High School in Terry ville, Conn., a part of the year 1892, but was obliged to re- sign the position because of nervous trouble. For a time it was a bitter struggle between life and death, but he gradually came out of it, and was at last able to work quietly on a farm. He is slowly regaining his health, and hopes and prays that he shall soon be able to do effective work in the ministry. SAMUEL. T. PATTERSON was born in Monmouth County, Middletown, N. J., May 25, 1831. His opportunities for education in early life were indeed limited, the district school affording him his only privilege. When but a lad he was converted, and at once was possessed with the conviction that he was called of God, to the ministry. Against the same he fought until about thirty years of age, when he yielded to the call, sacrificing all worldly interest. In the year 1868 He joined the Providence (New England Southern) Conference, and has served among other charges, Middleboro, Central Falls, Pawtucket, Thomson Church and Stoughton. Several charges were blessed with gracious revival influence, viz., Middleboro, where over one hundred were received on probation; Embury Church, Central Falls, R. I., where many were gathered in; also Stoughton, Mass., and Pascoag, R. I., were greatly strengthened. At Li:tle Compton, R. I., a new church was completed, and was dedicated by Bishop Simpson. A new church was built at Central Falls. He was granted supernumerary relation in 1894 and now resides in Stoughton, Mass. FRANCIS D. SARGENT was licensed as an exhorter at Swallow, Vt., in 1861. He entered the Union Army and at the close of the war, renewed his license at Auburn, N. Y. He was licensed as a local preacher at Empire, Mich., 1868. In 1869 he joined the Genesee Conference and was sent to Bradford, Pa., to a d.vided and scattered church, and since then it has seemed his special work, to recon- cile divisions and in various ways prepare the way for his successor. He joined the New England Southern Conference in 1875, preaching at Fairhaven, Scltuate, Mapleville and Glendale, and at Nantasket, etc. The early years of his ministry were very successful in work among- young men and many revivals were enjoyed. While at Mapleville and Glendale and Fairhaven, revivals occured, during which goodly numbers professed conversion. At Nantasket he' instituted services for the summer visitors, resulting in a regular congregation of about two hundred. While at Marshfield in 1892 he suffered from nervous prostration, from which he has never fully recovered. He was made supernumerary in 1897 and resides at Rock- land, Mass. JOHN F. SHEFFIELD was born Jan. 8, 1823. He received the most of his educa- tion at Norwich and at Wilbraham Academy. He entered the New England Southern Conference in 1848. Some cf his important charges were: HazardvXe, Manchester, Provincetowr, Centenary Church, Vineyard Haven, and Providence, Asbury Church. Revival interest was manifested in nearly all his charges; but in a dozen instances, or more, the revivals were very powerful. In fifteen charges, im- provements were made, including the payment of debts, the placing of three bells in different churches, etc. At East Hartford and Sagamore, parsonages were secured, and while he was at Provlncetown, Centenary Church was tegun. In 1890 he was made superannuated ard resides in Danielson, Conn. J. H. SHERMAN was born in Eastford, Conn., in 1839. His early educational advantages were limited, but he made the most of opportunities by pursuing his studies at home. He was licensed to presch in 1865 and joined the Minnesota Con- ference in 1866. His work was on frontier circuits receiving more or less aid from the missionary society. The five circuits served in that Conference, aggre- gated forty-two different regular preaching places. In seventeen of these places he preached the first sermon ever delivered in the neighborhood. There were revivals on all these circuits. The most extensive were on Howard Lake, Silver Lake and Brockway circuits. In two of these instances there were conversions in every family in the neighborhood and in several other places revivals were nearly as successful. In 1872 he was transferred to the New England Southern Confer- ence. There were revivals of general interest in his pastoral charges at Hope- vllle, Voluntown, Hebronville, Dodgeville, Millville, and Versailles. He has been a superannuate since 1888. GEORGE W. STEARNS, M. D., was born in Reading, Vt., Dec. 25, 1814. He was educated in the public schools, the Norwich and Newbury seminaries, and m t Homoeopathic Medical College of Philadelphia, holding also a diploma from the Penn Medical University of Penn. He was converted at Newbury (Vt.), Seminary, Oct. 5, 1834, its eldest son. He joined the Methodist Episcopal Church on proba- tion October 9, was licensed to exhort on the West Windsor Circuit June 14, p, and to preach June 15, 1836, and the itinerary in July, 1837, in the New Hampshire Conference. Received appcintments in four places, and then was transferred ' the Providence Conference in June, 1842, and stationed at Barnstable, Mass., and various other places in Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island. Revivals were enjoyed at Barnstable, Wellfleet. West Thompson. Holmes Hole and Bristo His last pastorate was Wareham, when his health failed, compelling a cessation of his traveling in 1856. He commenced the practice of medicine in New Bedford In 1857, where he remained twenty-two years. He acted as chaplain for the alms house of the city for five years; and filled the pulpit of the Baptist Church at South Dartmouth for one year. He was also accustomed to fill vacancies in most c the churches in the city and surrounding towns. He is at present settled in Winchester, at 50 Washington Street. The oldest itinerant of the New England Southf-rn Conference. SOU I' EN 1R HISTORY. 269 EDWIN S. STANLEY was born in Thompson (now Putnam City), Conn., May 1, 1819. He is a son C'f Sylvester and Nancy Nichols Stanley. His mother, who was a devoted Christian and Methodist, after the death of her husband, moved to East Woodstock, where there were no Methodist society. She was accustomed to invite Methodist preachers to hold meetings at her house. The final result was a Methodist Church established there. While Mr. Stanley was clerking- in a store in Ashford, Conn., under the labors of Rev. Erastus Benton, he joined the church as Eastford hip were followed by five years in the pastorate; and these by seven more in the Presiding-eldership, ending- in 1886. Dr. Talbot has been delegate to the General Conference several times and for many years has been one of the most prominent men in the affairs of our Confer- ence, having held about every position of honor and trust that the Conference could give. JAMES ORWIN THOMPSON was born in Waldo, Waldo County, Me., June 9, 1834. He received his education in the common schools of that town, Vassaltoro Academy, Fairfield Seminaiy and graduated at M. G. B. Institute, Concord, N. H., in June, 1866. In the same year he joined the Maine Conference, preaching there until 1871, when he joined the New England Southern Conference, being stationed at Vineyard Haven, Plymouth, Middletown, etc. Good revival spirit was mani- fested at Nantasket and Little Compton. At Nantasket, the parsonage was im- proved and enlarged and the title secured to the church, and the church refres- coed, repainted and refurnished. He was superannuated in 1883 and resides at Keyser, W. Va. WILLIAM TURKINGTON was born in Lurgan. Ireland in 1818. He received his education in the schools of that place together with the assistance of a private teacher at home. His father being a member of the Episcopal Church, intended to educate his son for that Church, but reverses came which caused those inten- tions to t>e given up. About this time the Methodist preachers came and preached in dwelling-houses. He attended these meetings and was converted and appointed Class-Leader. He preached two years in connection with the Irish Conference, and then came to the United States in 1843, and joined New England Southern Con- ference in 1845. Some of his most important charges were Middletown. Moodus, Hockanum and Willimantic. In all his minstry, he never employed an evangelist, but conversions occurred at different times throughout the year. Large revivals occurred at Old Mystic and Willimantic. During his pastorate at Mansfield and Old Mystic, the churches were built and at Windsorville the upper part of the church was finished. The building had been raised two years and only the vestry finished. At Lyme the church was improved with new furniture, etc. DANIEL A. WHEDON was born in Brantingham, Lewis County, N. Y., December 16, 1823. He attended school in Cazenovia; graduated from the Wes- leyan University in 1845, and joined the New England Conference on probation in 1846. In 1847 he was transferred to the Oneida Conference, now Central New York, and the first year there was on a circuit with E. G. (now Bishop) Andrews as junior preacher. Among the appointments in that Conference were Ithaca. First Church, Auburn, First -Church and- First Church, Utica. In 1866 he was trans- ferred to the Providence Conference, and has occupied several of its leading pul- pits. He has held many of the highest honors within the gifts of the Conference. He has been a member of nine General Conferences. In 1881 he was delegate to the Ecumenical Conference in London, and in 1884 delegate to the Centennial Con- ference at Baltimore. He was a member and secretary of the committee that 2 - SOUVENIR HISTORY. prepared the present Hymnal of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In educa- tional matters he was a trustee of Cazenovia Seminary for ten years; since 1871 he has been a trustee of Wesleyan University, and for the last ten years has been president of the Board of Directors of the East Greenwich Academy. He has contributed a number of articles to the Methodist Quarterly Review, two of which on "The Printed Greek Text of the New Testament," gave the fullest account of It that had been published in this country. For ten years he furnished for the Sunday School Journal Quarterly articles on "Methodism in the Lessons," and for thirty years he was a frequent contributor to Zion's Herald and other church papers. He wrote the notes on Collossians and Philippians and most of those on the Epistles of Peter for "Whedon's Commentary." In 1887, in con- nection with Rev. J. S. Whedon, prepared the volumes entitled "Essays, Re- views and Discourses," and "Statements Theological and Critical," by D. D. Whedon, D. D., LL. D. At the Centennial of New England Methodism, in Bos- ton, in 1890. he read a paper on "Methodist Theology." In 1869 he received the degree of Doctor of Divinity from Wesleyan University. He now resides in East Greenwich, R. I. JOHN W. WILLETT was born in Hanson, Mass., May 22, 1824. He was edu- cated in the common schools of that town and at South Braintree Academy. In his early life he was a staunch believer in the doctrine of Universalism, and in both public and private maintained them by argument, until he was at last van- quished by the simple testimony of a young boy, at a service held in the M. E. Church at South Scituate. He at once entered the ministry in 1853, being sta- tioned at Yarmouthport. A few of his appointments were: Chatham; Taunton. Central Church; Rockville; Providence, Power Street; Pawtucket, Woonsocket and Middletown. He was ever a revival preacher, conversions occurring on all his charges. The church at Rockville was finished and dedicated during his pastorate there and the church at Hope Street, Providence, was begun and a parsonage erected while he was stationed there. He held two of the highest honors in the grift of the Conference, namely, Presiding Elder (of New Bedford District, 18T9-82), and delegate to the General Conference. He also served faithfully and well in the following offices: treasurer cf the Conference funds, of the board of trustees, of the fund for disabled clergymen, and of the Conference Seminary in some of its most critical years. He was superannuated in 1893 and died at Taunton, Aug. 21, 1897, leaving a widow and one daughter, Mrs. Alfred Messinger of Taunton. Mr. Willett for many years was one of the strong leaders in the Conference. DANIEL WISE was born in Portsmouth, England, January 10, 1813, edu- cated in Portsmouth Grammar School; removed to the United States in 1833, and joined the New England Conference in 1840. There he served churches at Ips- wich, Lowell and Springfield and some other appointments that are now in the New England Southern Conference, such as Nantasket and Hull. When the Providence Conference was separated from the New England he remained with the former, serving the leading churches in Providence, Fall River, New Bed- ford, etc. 1852-56 he was editor of Zion's Herald. He has edited many of our church and Sunday School periodicals. He edited and published the first Sunday School paper ever issued by Methodism. Perhaps American Methodism has produced no more voluminous writer than Dr. Wise. Nearly one hundred vol- umes have come from his pen, the aggregate sale of which has been consider- ably over one-half a million copies. Who can estimate the blessed influence of such a life? Probably no Sunday School library in Methodism is without some of his volumes. Among his many volumes we may mention the following: Life of Lorenzo Dow, (1840). Questions on Romans (1843), McGregor Family, (1845), Be- nevolent Traveller, (1846), Guide to the Savior, (1847), The Path of Life, (1847), Bridal Greetings (1850). Young Man's Counsellor (1850), Young Ladies' Counsellor (1851), My Uncle Tobey's Library, twelve volumes (1853), Living Streams from the Fountain of Life (1854), Popular Objections to Methodism Considered and Answered (1856), Hollywood Stories, six volumes (1872). Pen Pictures from the Life of John Wes- ley (1874). Uncrowned Kings (1875, last edition 1886), Sketches and Anecdotes of American Methodists (1883), Our Missionary Heroes and Heroines (1884), Some Re- markable Women (1887). Faith. Hope. Love and Duty (1891). The dates of the above are of the last edition in many crses. REV. E. B. HINCKLEY. (Superannuate.) REV. J. O. DODGE. ' ' -") (Stipernimierary.) REV. W. H. STETSON. (Deceased. i82-*97.) DECEASED MEMBERS OF OUR CONFERENCE. L. HARLOW. D. M. ROGERS. J. M. WORCESTER. JOHN COOFER. The dates indicate the years spent in the ministry. DISTINGUISHED METHODIST PREACHERS FORMERLY MEMBERS OF OUR CONFERENCE. J. BENSON HAMILTON. ANGELO CANOLL. N. T. WHITAKER. (Deceased.) OUR THREE PRESIDING ELDERS. REV. T. J. EVERETT. REV. E. C. BASS. REV. G. H. BATES. New Bedford District. Providence District. N crunch District. A biographical sketch of each presiding elder will appear in his own district's volume. THE CONFERENCE ENDORSEMENT OF THE SOUVENIR HISTORY. That there may be no misunderstanding as to the meaning of the line at the bottom of the title page, "With Conference Consent and Approval," we quote here from the Conference Year Book of 1897-. (From Minutes cf the Second Day Page 17). "HISTORY OF CHURCHES. R. C. Miller announced his purpose to prepare a history of the Churches in the Conference, and requested that a special committee be apointed to consider the sub- ject and report. On motion of W. H. Butler, the Presiding Elders were requested to nominate such a committee, to be composed of three members from each District. The Presiding Elders nominated M. J. Talbot, G. W. King, B. F. Simon, J. G. Gammons, J. I. Bar- tholomew, W. F. Davis, W. C. Newell, C. M. Melden and W. I. Ward. The nominations were confirmed.'' (Prom Minutes of the Sixth Day Page 33). "SOUVENIR HISTORY. G. W. King, for the Committee on Souvenir History of the Conference, presented the following resolu- tion, which was adopted: Resolved, That we approve the general plan of the Souvenir History of the Conference proposed by Brother R. C. Miller, and promised him our hearty co-operation in the preparation and distri- bution of his work." P. S. It may be of interest to the general public also to know that one- half of the profits from the sale of this SOUVENIR HISTORY are to be divided between the Conference Claimants' (old, worn-out ministers) Fund, and the Conference Home Missions' (the weak, struggling churches) Fund. It is thus seen that the publishing of this work is not a private enterprise wholly, but one of general financial interest to the Conference. VOLUME II. SOUVENIR HISTORY New England Southern Conference IN THREE VOLUMES VOL. I. NEW BEDFORD DISTRICT VOL. II. NORWICH DISTRICT VOL. III. PROVIDENCE DISTRICT VOLUME ll. NORWICH DISTRICT COMPILED AND EDITED BY REV. RENNETTS C. MILLER, S. T. B. Pastor, Methodist Episcopal Cburcb, Nantasket, Mass. HISTORICAL SKETCH OF CONFERENCE BY REV. M. J. TALIiOT, I). D. IT CONTAINS SPECIAL HISTORICAL SKETCHES OF THE DISTRICT, THE CAMPMEETING ASSOCIATIONS, THE DISTRICT EPWORTH LEAGUE, THE VARIOUS SOCIAL UNIONS, AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS; HIS- TORICAL SKETCH OF EACH CHURCH, WITH OVER FOUR HUNDRED ENGRAVINGS OK CHURCHES, PARSONAGES, PASTORS, PASTORS' WIVES, SUNDAY-SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS, EPWORTH LEAGUE PRESIDENTS, PROMINENT LAYMEN, ETC. OVER THREE HUNDRED PAGES. PICTURES AND BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES Of THE SUPERANNUATES, ETC. 1897 PUBLISHED 1897 WITH CONFERENCE CONSENT AND APPROVAL, BY REV. RENNETTS C. MILLER, NANTASKET, MASS. COPYRIGHT, 1897, BY REV. RENNETTS C. MILLER. I DEDICATE THIS VOLUME Uo fl& dfatber, IN GRATEFUL RECOGNITION OF HIS MANY NOBLE QUALITIES OF HEART AND HEAD; AND ESPECIALLY FOR THE SUPREME HOPEFULNESS AND UNSELFISHNESS THAT HAVE ALWAYS CHARACTER- IZED HIS LIFE. EDITORIAL NOTES. After another long waiting, we send forth Volume II. of this History to the public. No one regrets more than the Editor this long delay. After careful examination of the historical matter of this volume, we are disposed even more fully to the opinion expressed in the Editor's Introduction of Volume I., that "the story of the struggles and triumphs of the churches of our Conference will send a new impulse of holy zeal into thousands of lukewarm hearts, and inspire renewed loyalty to our Church." In this volume we furnish several more pictures of the deceased members. There are still many more whose pictures we have been unable to obtain. The church sketches, with one or two exceptions (Pascoag, etc.), have been written by the present pastors. Otherwise they w r ill be marked thus * *. Occasionally the Editor has added important historical facts that have come to him fully authenticated. While all the specially written articles are valuable, still we wish to call special attention to the article by the Presiding Elder, Rev. George H. Bates. It is a very valuable and interesting "Introduction" to this volume. We are sure the friends of the Conference will greatly appreciate his splendid article. We are glad to announce that Volume III. is in press and is being pushed rapidly, and we hope to have it issued about the 2Oth of March. We are glad to announce that Rev. E. C. Bass, D. D., Presiding Elder of Providence District, will furnish an "Introduction" for Volume III. Again we wish to thank Rev. G. H. Bates, the Presiding Elder, for his kindly assistance and wise counsel in many things, in the pub- lishing of this volume. Again we cheerfully acknowledge the in- valuable assistance of Rev. W. I. Ward. Rev. M. J. Talbot, D. D., has been of much help also, by his kindly advice. * INDEX OF VOLUME II. THE CHURCHES. Attawaugan 4 North Grosvenor Dale 102 Burnside S Norwich No. Main St 105 Colchester 13 Norwich Town 108 Danielson 17 Norwich, Trinity 111,117 East Blackstone 21 Old Mystic 125 Eastford 23 Oneco 129 East Glastonbury, Conn 20 Pascoag 131 East Hampton 31 Portland 135 East Hartford 124 Putnam 140 East Thompson 36 Quarryville 143 East Woodstock 38 Rockville 146 Gale's Ferry 41 South Coventry 150 Gardner Lake 44 South Glastonbury 154 Glendale (R.I.) 69 South Manchester 158 Greene 45 Square Pond 170 Hazardville 50 Stafford Springs 164 Hockanum 119 Staff ordville 173 Hopevale 15 Sterling- 215 Jewett City 54 Thompsonville 176 Lyme 56 Tolland 206 Manchester 60 Uncasville 180 Maplevllle (R. I.) 66 Vernon 212 Mashapaug 72 Volun town 184 Millville 77 Warehouse Point 189 Moodus 79 Westerly 193 MOOSUD 82 West Thompson 196 Mystic 86 Willimantic 200 New London 92 Willington 74 Niantic 99 Windsorville 203 Noank 89 SPECIAL ARTICLES. Bates, Rev. Geo. H. Biog. sketch ] Martha's Vineyard Camp-Meeting. ..XVII Conference Home Missions XXVII Martha's Vineyard Revival of '53.XXXIX Conference Indorsement 246 Norwich Dist. Epworth League 216 Cummings, Rev. S. S., and . His Nutting, Rev. J. H., and His Work.XLIII Work XLV Pastoral Record 236 East Greenwich Academy XXI Superannuates, Biographies 217 Evangelists XLVIII Supti numeraires, Biographies 217 Fall River Deaconess Home XXXIV Tregaskis, Rev. Jas. Biog. sketch. XLV [[I Gardner, Mrs. Harmony 139 Woman's Foreign Missionary Society. XLI Hamlen, Rev. G. M. and His Work. XLVIT Woman's Home Mission'y Society. XXIX James, Rev. J. H., and His Work... XLV Willimantic Camp-Meeting 2 Jones, Rev. E. F. Biog. sketch.. XLVIII SPECIAL PICTURES. Asbury Rock 28 Jones, Rev. E. F XLVIII Bates, Rev. G. H., Presiding Elder 1 Local Preachers 235 Bentley, Rev. D. N., and wife 105 Martha's Vineyard Auditorium XXI Blakeslee, Prin. F. D XXII Martha's Vineyard Camp-Meeting, 50 Chautauqua Circle (Gale's Ferry) years ago. XVIII, XIX, XX Cummings, Rev. S. L XLV Nutting, Rev. J. H XLIV Deceased Members 224-228 Perkins, Alba 3 East Greenwich Academy Faculty.XXIII Presiding Elders 234 East Greenwich Acad. Students. ..XXVII Providence Deaconesses XXXII Everett, Mrs. T. J XXVIII Providence Deaconess Home XXXII Fall River Deaconesses XXXVII Richardson Triplets 24 Fall River Deaconess Home XXXV Superannuates XVI, 230-31, 233 Flint, John D XXXVI Supernumeraries Gardner, Mrs. Harmony 139 XVI, XVII, XVIII, 230-231 Gould, Rev. John B XXXIX Sockancsset School for Boys XLIV Hamlen, Pres. G. M., and wife XLVII Trtgaskis, Rev. Jas XLVIII James, Rev. J. H XLVI Tregaskis. Mrs. Jas. XLII James, Mrs. J. H XLII Willimantic Camp-Meeting Views 2,3 DISTINGUISHED METHODIST MINISTERS FORMERLY MEMBERS OF OUR CONFERENCE. Bates, L. B 228 Nutter, C. S Binney, Amos (deceased) 228 Payne, C. H Chapman, J. A. M 229 Pitblado. C. B Dorchester, Daniel 232 Raymond, B. P Gallagher, C. W 229 Reed, Geo. E Goodell, C. L 229 Steele, W. F Gracey, S. L 228 Stevens, Abel 233 Haynes, Emory J 229 Taylor, E. M 229 Hatfield, R. M. (deceased) 228 Taylor, E. T. (deceased) 228 Hutchinson, B. W 232 Townsend, L. T 232 Jordan, D. A 229 Trafton, Mark 228 Kimball, H. D 229 Upham, S. F 232 MacDonald, Wm 229 Wagner, F. J 232 McChesney, Ensign 228 Worth, W. T 229 * For a general index of the three volumes see close of Vol. III. INTRODUCTION TO NORWICH DISTRICT. By Rev. George H. Bates, Presiding Elder. The section embraced in Norwich district is rich in historic in- terest, both in civil and ecclesiastical affairs. It has been truthfully said that no portion of the country was stocked, in its first settling, with a higher type of manhood. Among the leaders in this were the sons of Bradford and Brewster from Ply- mouth, and Huntington, Hyde and Leffingwell from Saybrook; men who sought the wilderness to be rid of the adventurers who had accompanied and annoyed their fathers, and whose names have ap- peared among our most respected Methodist ministers. As illustrative of the character and influence of these early set- tlers, it appears that the "pedigrees of no less than four Presidents con- verge" on the city that gives the district its name. Of these, two Generals Grant and Hayes were trustees of the Methodist church. It was this section that through Moses Cleaveland settled the "West- ern Reserve," its principal city receiving from him its name, and that gave the country, in Governor Trumbull, its "Brother Jonathan," as Washington's most trusted counsellor. The spirit of the early settlers is revealed in their exceptional treatment of the famous tribe of Mo- hegan Indians who dwelt in unbroken peace and rest in honored sepulchres among them. Their church has often been supplied by our preachers, notably by Dr. Henry Torbush, who was their vener- ated pastor for fourteen years. Such citizens as President Gilman of Johns-Hopkins, Donald G. Mitchell, Mrs. L. H. Sigourney and E. C. Stedman, in the literary world, and John F. Slater, the donor of the munificent gift of a million dollars to the Freedmen, and C. H. Mallory, of our Mystic church, of steamship fame, in business affairs, have maintained the early traditions of force of character. So too this section is of great interest to the Methodist antiquary. Jesse Lee testified that he found here "more encouragement," and it would appear a kindlier soil than in some portions of the East. Here Methodism early took root and became a strong evangelizing power. Confirmatory of this, the succeeding histories will show that at least two societies were formed as early as 1790 the one at Spencer street, Manchester, and that at Tolland; and probably a third at Square Pond; and that two of the first five Methodist meeting-houses in New England were erected in this territory, namely, at Square Pond (now Crystal Lake) and at Tolland. Dr. R. W. Allen, an acknowleged au- thority, said: "I think the 'Pond church' was a little ahead of the Tol- land in point of time; and, if so, it was the fourth Methodist church erected in New England." These were built in 1792. X SOU I' EN I R HISTORY. But in another particular this district was distinctly foremost, as the first parsonage erected by our people in the East was at Square Pond. This distinctive consideration for its pastors Norwich district still maintains, and to-day, with fifty-three parsonages, many of them fine and commodious, it is believed leads the conference, while it has a reputation for respecting and generally caring for its ministers not elsewhere excelled. The earliest New England camp-meeting held by our people of which we have any knowledge was also at historic Square Pond, El- lington, in the year 1806; thirteen years before the one at Cape Cod referred to in Vol. I. as probably the first. From the first our churches have been warm supporters of evangelistic camp-meetings, of which many have been held in different parts of the district, cul- minating in Willimantic meeting, the history of which appears in another place. Of the first six conferences held in New England, three met with societies now in Norwich district, while a fourth convened at Wilbra- ham just across its border. The first of these conferences met at Tolland, August n, 1793; the second at New London July 15, 1795, and the third at West Thompson, September 19, 1796. This would seem to indicate that early Methodism had good standing and in- fluence in these parts. It does not appear to be understood that George Whitefield in- troduced Methodist preaching in Eastern Connecticut as early as 1745. At this time he visited Norwich, New London and other towns. This was followed by two other evangelistic tours that carried "consternation" to the more conservative of the "standing order," but resulted in the formation of no societies. He visited and became much interested in the Indian school at Lebanon, and in 1764 we find Rev. Samson Occum, the famous Indian preacher, accompanying Mr. Whitefield and entering into his labors. Among the points .of romantic interest to Methodists, the ancient elm at Center Stonington should stand first. It bears a tablet indi- cating that under it Whitefield preachfu one of his marvelous dis- courses July 19, 1747. Here commemorative services have recently been held, in \vhich one of our pastors in that town gave the histori- cal address. Of scarcely less interest is the great rock in East Glas- tonbury, where Bishop Asbury spoke in 1793. Another is the in- scribed stone in Griswold that marks the spot where the saintly Ezra Withey, a native of that town, delivered a memorable sermon in the open air. Mr. Withey had a remarkable career of usefulness, having enjoyed the privilege of leading Bishop Bowman, then one of his classmates at Cazenovia, into peace with God, and, while pastor in New York, Bishop Newman into the ministry. To these might be SOUVENIR HISTORY. XI added the Ellington Academy, where Dr. R. S. Rust, as principal, began his educational career, in 1842; and "Hickory Plain," Mont- ville, where Lorenzo Dow, the eccentric but widely known preacher of this section, received President Jackson in 1833, when on his way to lay the corner-stone of the Uncas monument in the Mohegan ceme- tery at Norwich. Among the prominent preachers that this district has given to our work, not heretofore mentioned, we name Rev. Erastns Went- worth, D. D., who was born in Stonington in 1813. Dr. Wentworth had a distinguished career, having been pastor of several important societies, missionary to Foo Chow, editor of "The Ladies' Repository" and president of McKendree College. Thompson claims the eloquent Dr. Jefferson Hascall, who served the New England Conference as presiding elder, and wrote the touching hymn, "My latest sun is sinking fast." Norwich was the home of the famous Rev. Billy Hib- bard, born in 1771, near the "Star farm"; Edward Hyde, the devout presiding elder; Henry E. Hempstead, chaplain of the state prison of Massachusetts and of the 39th regiment in the war of the rebellion, and Edward A, Manning, who was secretary of the New England conference for twenty-nine years. East Hartford was the birthplace of Rev. Ira M. Bidwell and Dr. C. D. Hills; East Windsor of Ralph W. Allen, presiding elder of this district, then called New London, in 1843-46; Salem of Rev. E. B. Bradford, a direct descendant of the Pilgrim governor; and South Windsor of Rev. E. F. Clark, the his- torian of Norwich Methodism. David N. Bentley, a native of North Stonington, Norris G. Lippitt of Killingly and Prof. E. S. Lippitt of Woodstock were local preachers of great influence and effectiveness. Two families of this district have been prolific of Methodist ministers, those of Daniel Dorchester and Erastus Benton. Mr. Dor- chester was born in Vernon in 1790, was a renowned presiding elder, serving four different districts, and the father of Dr. Daniel Dor- chester, of national fame, two of whose sons are successful preachers. Mr. Benton was a native of Tolland. As a pastor, his work was at- tended by remarkable awakenings, and as a presiding elder he was called to serve this district two terms. He also has been succeeded by able preachers in two generations. Rev. Lewis Bates, born within the bounds of this conference, in 1780, and an early preacher on this district, is of a family that, in three generations, has given seven preachers to our work, four of whom have served on Norwich district. Three Methodists have been sent to Congress from within our borders. The last of these, the Hon. John R. Buck of East Glaston- bury, is now president of the board of trustees of Wilbraham Acad- emy. CONFERENCE RESOLUTIONS. Not wishing to reprint Dr. Talbot's article in this special three volume edition, inasmuch as it may be seen in Vol. I of this edition, the Editor thinks that some of the Conference resolutions of former years will read with interest to many of our people. The resolutions that are passed by our Annual Conferences are supposed to represent the general sentiments of the members at the time. These have been compiled from the annual printed Minutes and Year Books. The year is given with each one. RESOLUTIONS ON SLAVERY. 1855- Slavery has seized upon general government and its deadly influ- ence is felt in all its departments. It makes our Presidents, elects our Congressmen, appoints the members of the Cabinet and Judges of the Supreme Court, and our ministers to foreign powers. In short, it controls our Legislatures, our Executives, our Judiciary, our Diplo- macy, our Army, our Navy and all our great National interests; and as though even this were not enough it utters its falsehoods in the census and sends them out under the authority of the government to impose upon the ignorance and credulity of the nation. Such atro- cious political turpitude and hypocrisy the world has never seen since the days of the Slaveholding Republic of Ancient Greece. But this is not all would to God that it were! Slavery in our country exists in the very presence of Christianity, simply because Christianity is not so administered as to abolish it, and Christian churches and slave barracoons, protracted meetings and slave auctions, gospel ministers and negro traders, revivals of religion and proslavery political caucuses; Bibles, hymn books, disciplines and chains, whips and thumbscrews, pious prayers and cries of distress, shouts of praise and wails of despair, collections for the support of missions abroad, and the sale of Christ's Church at home to supply the means; a holy indignation against infanticide and Sutteeism in India, and the forci- ble separation of Christian families at home; crowds of devoted wor- shipers with prayer books in hand passing through the streets to the house of God on one day, and coffles of manaicled slaves under the whip of the soul drivers, destined for the shambles of the far South, defiling along the same streets; the next all strangely mingled to- gether, in one country. 1860. The right or wrong of slavery is no longer a question in debate SOUVENIR HISTORY. XIII with us. We all agree in the belief that it is an institution conceived in sin, and brought forth in iniquity. And surely the atrocious villainy of this system was never more manifest than at the present time, when, in violation of all law, human and divine, that feature of it, which even our National Legislature has branded as piracy, shows itself un- blushingly, and even defiantly, in our country. SAMUEL C. BROWN, Chairman of Committee. 1862. Resolved, That we pledge to our Government, to our Army and our Navy our deepest sympathy in this hour of national peril, and that we fervently pray that the honor of our Flag, the integrity of our Government and the perpetuity of o-ur Union may be maintained as a demonstrative proof of the vitality of republican institutions. 1865. Resolved, That we gratefully acknowledge the Divine Blessing which has given us able generals of late, and crowned our arms with such wonderful successes that treason ha.s been smitten in its strong- holds, and is now staggering to its doom, while our loyal and victori- ous Army is marching on in triumph. ON THE STATE OF THE COUNTRY. 1864. In considering the struggle that is now going on, we are con- vinced that the Judge of all the Earth is accomplishing His wise pur- poses in the chastisement of our land, and in its deliverance from an evil which we have long deplored, and which by peaceful means we were never able to reach. * * * The chief magistrate, Abraham Lincoln, has our confidence and shall have our support. W^e believe with him that slavery is the cause of the rebellion, .and that no peace is honorable or can be lasting until it is removed. 1866. In the terrible destructiveness of the late war, both to the van- quished and the victors, we humbly recognize the sword of the Lord, vindicating His justice by punishing the whole nation foritsmany years of guilty complicity with the sin of slavery. By the light of that sword, the nations have read the truth that there is no immunity for sin and that National righteousness is the only shield against the stroke of the avenging angel. RESOLUTIONS ON TEMPERANCE. 1855- Resolved, That as a body of ministers we will continue our efforts to prevent the traffic in and use of intoxicating drinks by faithfully en- forcing our rules where occasion may require, and reasoning upon temperance as well as a judgment to come. Resolved, That, inasmuch as moral suasion alone is not sufficient to remove the evil of intemperance, we will not only preach upon the subject, but wage a continual warfare upon the sale of intoxicating drinks as a beverage by moral, religious and political action, until vic- tory is gained. 1861. After a careful consideration of the present state of the cause of temperance, your committee feel that there never was a time in its his- tory when the ministers of our Lord Jesus Christ were more impera- tively called to speak out boldly, fearlessly and faithfully in its advo- cacy. Though through a long series of years the friends of the cause of temperance have labored earnestly for its success, intemperance is still the great evil of the time. 1865. Intemperance is one of the greatest evils of our time, an evil that not only prostrates men in the dust literally, but destroys their intellect, benumbs their affections, sears their conscience and hardens the heart so as to unfit them to meet any of the obligations of life. While, therefore, in religion lies the great life giving artery from which tem- perance derives its life blood, temperance on the other hand is one of the nutritious elements of religion. Your committee are confident that there is now no reason for discouragement or relaxation of efforts in this cause. * * * We see and deplore the evils that exist among us. We are pained to know that, among professedly good men, there is a lack of interest, and in some cases, of loyalty to Temperance principles. Resolved, That we recommend the organization of juvenile tem- perance societies in connection with our Sunday Schools, in which the children and youth may pledge themselves to total abstinence. That the practice of patronizing hotels, stores, or saloons where intoxicating beverages are sold, is a gross inconsistency on the part of the ministry and membership of our church. That we recommend to both ministers and laymen a renewed ef- fort to circulate a pure Temperance literature among the people. (The temperance resolutions of 1865 occupy about two and a half pages of the printed Conference Minutes.) SOUVENIR HISTORY. XV 1868. We are unqualifiedly opposed to the license system and to the en- actment of any statute which gives the authority of law to the greatest crime of the nineteenth century. RESOLUTIONS ON TOBACCO. 1865. Resolved, That as the habitual use of tobacco is injurious to the human constitution, laying the foundation of many of the diseases that afflict the community, and in a great measure neutralizing the effects of medicinal agents the taste for tobacco being the same in kind as the taste for alcoholic drinks, often leading to their use we therefore recommend that in all our Sunday Schools vigorous efforts be made to instil into the minds of the young anti-tobacco principles. 1868. We believe the habitual use of tobacco leads to and encourages the use of more active stimulants; while in itself it is not beneficial, but highly injurious to the system. Christian men cannot, therefore, indulge in its use except it be medicinally, without serious loss of moral and religious power. MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTIONS. 1860. Resolved, That this Conference request the General Conference at its next session to provide in the Discipline of the M. E. Church for Lay Representation in the Annual and General Conferences, upon such basis as that Conference shall, in its wisdom, deem equitable and just. 1867. Resolved, That we cannot be blind to the increasing demands for a high standard of intellectual culture in the ministry, and are highly gratified at the successful efforts made during the past year to secure the means for meeting these claims by the endowment of our literary institutions. Resolved, That we do earnestly commend those who think themselves railed to the office of the ministry to maintain unflagging study, both before and after entering their high vocation. Resolved, That while we tenaciously defend the essential doc- trines of Methodism, we hail with joy the extension of Biblical and physical truth. REV. GEORGE. H. BATES. Presiding Elder Norwich District. -irfRev. G. H. Bates was born \\\ Topsfield, Mass., May 3rd, 1839, and is a son of the late Rev. G. W. Bates of the New England Conference. After High School and Wefleyan Academy courses he pursued special studies and taught for several years. He gave much attention to the higher branches of sacred music, and some of his songs have had a large sale. For eleven years he served our school boards and several years as Superintendent of public schools. He enlisted as a private in the War of the Rebellion, was promoted four times and. subsequently" was commissioned by Governor Andrews Lieutenant-Colonel. While pastor at North Easton he was elected to the legislature, where lie served as House Chairman of two committees and led in securing advanced temperance legislation. His principal work as an author is an article published by the United States Government on " Useful Marine Algse." He joined this Conference on trial in 1870, in the largest class ever received, and lias been pastor of eight churches one of them two terms. In most of these he has had revivals, especially at North Pighton. For ten years he has been stationed on Norwich district, serving East Main Street, Norwich, and Kockville charges. At the former place he served on the Board of Directors and Building Committee of the Y. M. ('. A. For six years he has been on the Executive Committee of the State Sunday-school Association. On the re-organization of the Conference Home Missionary Society, he was elected President of the Hoard and has taken much interest in securing funds for its work. In 1895 he was appointed Presiding Elder, and in 1896 was elected to General Conference. Mr. Bates is thoughtful and sympathetic, and is justly popular among the churches of his district. WILLIM ANTIC (COXX.) CAMP-MEETfNG. By Rev. J. S. Wads worth. From the early days when the Norwich District was still known as "New London District," camp-meetings were held, and formed an important factor in the life of the "societies" throughout the district. From 1853 records of these meetings have been carefully kept. In that year Rev. Anthony Palmer became Secretary of the West Kil- lingly Camp-Meeting and prefaced his records with the remark that it was greatly to be regretted that a permanent record of the camp- meetings on this district had not been kept. "They have been held," VIEW OF CARTWRIGHT AVENUE. he says, "one or more each year for many years past." He acknowl- edges that "for a number of years past they have not been marked with that degree of interest and usefulness as formerly," but he assured the people of that time that there was no good reason for entertaining the idea that "the day of camp-meetings has gone by." Until 1860, two meetings were held each year in different parts of the district. At a preachers' meeting, held in Willimantic in 1859, Dr. W. K. Otis, Lyman Jordan and William Turkington were appointed to "see if a more central location could be found for a District Camp- Meeting." The committee, with rare good judgment recommended the present location of the Willimantic Camp Grounds, situated about a mile and a half south of Willimantic, being near the intersection of the railroads running from East and West, and from North and South, making it easy to reach the meeting from all parts of the district. The natural beauties of the ground made it a general favorite with all who saw it. The beautiful grove of oak and chestnut trees, surrounded by a slightly rising ground, made a natural amphitheatre which might well have been destined for the tabernacle of the Lord. So well pleased SOUVENIR HISTORY. ALBA PERKINS. Supt. of Camp-Meeting. were those who met that first year upon these grounds that the follow- ing committee was appointed to purchase the land "for a permanent camp ground for the New London District," viz. : J. D. King, L. D. Bentley, W. K. Otis, Lyman Jordan and J. B. Wood. The grounds were purchased and consecrated that year with a most successful meeting. The Secretary, Anthony Palmer, re- cords the "unusual degree of divine influence" which attended all the ser- vices, resulting in the conversion of seventy-five persons. The largest audience was variously estimated at from five to six thousand. There were about fifty tents upon the ground. The next year, 1861, the meeting "was much larger, hard times not- withstanding, and the whole number of tents was seventy." The record says: "As for weather, the Lord never gave any better for a similar purpose ; only one service at the stand was interrupted by rain." The weather was an important consideration in those days, be- fore any "buildings" were on the ground. Frequently the rain dis- persed the congregation from the stand and several preaching services were held in tents. The first permanent building was erected in 1864, "a rough build- ing for the storing of straw, tent frames, etc." Also, another building \vas erected that year for the stand, with a single room for holding the meetings of the Associa- tion. Year by year, as new and more commodious buildings appeared, the old ^'society tents" were folded, and like the Arabs would silently steal away. Not one of the tents remains upon the ground, yet still in all the rules and regula- tions of the Association the term is retained, and the old-time discipline of the "terns" is preserved. There are now about 200 build- ings upon the ground. TENT" ON WESLEY CIRCLE. 4 SOU I 'EN 11! HISTORY. According to the Constitution, the presiding elder of the district is president of the Association. Each of the presiding elders has sought to make the Willimantic Camp-Meeting a power for good throughout the District. The most distinguished preachers from our own, as well as from other conferences, together with bishops of the church, have preached with very great power at these meetings. The services of evangelists have sometimes been used in the altar services. Revs. I. T. Johnson, Thomas Harrison, Drs. W. H. Boole and L. B. Bates have rendered service in this capacity. The present President, George H. Bates, has introduced as features of the meeting an "Old-Time Ser- vice," which is highly appreciated, recalling associations of former years, both in its singing and addresses. Also, the "Laymen's Day" is proving a popular and profitable service. The attendance upon the meetings of this Camp Ground is not less than in former years, and the character of the meetings has been less changed than in almost any other camp-meeting in New England, owing, perhaps, to the situ- ation, removed from the more fashionable Summer resorts. Each year witnesses a large number of conversions, and the churches on the Dis- trict a quickened religious life as a result of the meetings. May the day be far distant when Willimantic Camp Meeting shall cease to witness these annual gatherings from the societies throughout the District. M. E. CHURCH, ATTAWAUGAN, CONN. A little while before the first class was formed, Mr. Elisha Baker, wife and family took up their residence in the village of Ballouville, adjoining Attawatigan, having removed from West Thompson, where they held membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church. On arriving at their new home, they found no church and no means of grace save occasional preaching by various independent preachers roaming about. Knowing the piety of the Baker family, some one said to the head of that household, "Mr. Baker, what will you do here, without a church?" To this Mr. Baker replied, "I have a little church at home, sir, and we have a prayer meeting every night." The ques- tioner, not quite understanding what was meant, requested the privi- lege of attending, both for himself and neighbors. This, of course, was granted, and the Baker homestead was too small to hold the crowds who attended. At this stage, the Rev. Lewis B. Bates, then pastor of the church at West Thompson, was appealed to, and immediately formed the first class. This was in 1859. At one time the class enrolled forty-two members. Mr. Bates preached in the place once a month, and a Sab- bath school, with varying interest, was maintained. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 5 This was the beginning of work which has been a blessing to many unto eternal life. The spirit of worship seemed to have spread until there was such a demand for a suitable sanctuary that in the year 1870 the Attawaugan Company, who own all the mill property in the sev- eral villages hereabout, generously came to the rescue and built a commodious chapel, capable of seating over two hundred persons. As Attawangan was the larger village and the home of the majority of worshipers, the chapel was built in this place. Although the members of the Attawaugan Company were Congre- gationalists, they gave the people their choice as to denominational affiliation. At first it was a Union Church, the preachers of the sur- rounding churches supplying the pulpit. The church edifice was dedi- ATTAWAUGAN CHURCH. cated in the Autumn of 1870, the Rev. Daniel Merriman, D. D., of the Second Congregational Church, Norwich, preaching the sermon. A Sunday School was organized in January, 1871, of which Joseph Wheaton, a member of the Baptist Church of Putnam, was the first superintendent. The Union Church was not a success. Rarely does one prosper. Hoping, doubtless, for better things, a request was presented to the Rev. G. W. Brewster, Presiding Elder of the Norwich District of the Providence (now New England Southern) Conference, to secure the appointment of a Methodist preacher for the year 1871-72. Rev. Nelson Goodrich was appointed. The work so prospered under the labors of this honored servant of Cod that in the year 1872, at a meeting of the church, it was voted, SOUVENIR HISTORY. thirty to one, to proceed to the organization of a Methodist Episco- pal Church. Accordingly, Presiding Elder Brewster, assisted by the Rev. Nelson Goodrich, instituted the first Quarterly Conference, and organized a Methodist Episcopal Church. This was in the month of March. The church consisted of ten members, as follows: John Aspin- wall, Louisa J. Aspinwall, Elisha Baker, Mary Baker, Amanda Baker, John O. Fisher, L. U. S. Fisher, Sarah Whidden and Laura Edwards. Perhaps it should be said here that Mr. Elisha Baker, in whose family worship this great work originated, lived to see the fruition of his labors, having reached the ripe old age of eighty-one years. His funeral was solemnized by the Rev. F. H. Spear in the month of May, 1894, in the presence of a large number of friends, who had assembled to pay their respects to an honored servant whose work was "well done." Space forbids any detailed account of the individual pastorates. Suf- fice it to say that in nearly all of them there have been revivals of re- ligion more or less successful. In this respect the pastorates of W. \Y. Ellis and J. O. Dodge were the most notable. In the Summer of 1896, during the pastorate of the Rev. F. H. Spear, the church edifice was H. C. WORCESTER. Sunday School Superintendent. REV. JOHN* PEARCE. MRS. JOHN PEARCE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 7 greatly improved, inside and out. A new tower was erected, in which was placed a new bell, weighing 2,250 pounds. It was a gift from the Misses Norton of Norwich (Congregational- ists), daughters of the late Henry Norton, who was Treasurer of the Attawaugan Company up to the time of his death. It was given in the latters memory. Beside this improvement the church was so re- modeled in the interior as to give two new class rooms, instead of one small library room, and tne whole church was carpeted and newly painted and frescoed. The reopening services were held July 12, 1896, the Rev. Walter J. Yates of Rockville preaching the sermon. PASTORS. 1871. Nelson Goodrich 1882. Silas Sprowls 1872-74. W. W. Ellis 1883. E. J. Ayers 1875. J. O. Dodge 1884-85. O. A. Farley 1876. Charles Morse 1886. ' William Kirby 1877. Charles Hammona 1887-88. G. W. Wright 1878. D. J. Griffin 1889-93. H. H. Martin 1879. R. D. Dyson 1894-96. F. H. Spear 1880. D. L. Brown 1897. John Pearce 1881. W. A. Luce PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stewards H. C. Worcester (Recording), W. H. Edwards, C. H. Truesdell, B. I. Taft, R. C. Rouse, James Stone, Erastus Baker, Henry Bishop, Sarah R. Truesdell, Susan J. Worcester, Ellen M. Taft, Eliza- beth A. Chase. Sunday School Superintendent, H. C. Worcester ; Assistant, Henry Bishop; Secretary and Treasurer, Nancy Anderson; Librarian, Eugene Maxham. Teachers Lizzie Bowen, Susan J. Worcester, the Pastor, Ann E. Carder, Charles O. Barrett, Evelyn Darling, Ellen W. Taft, Etta Stone, Thankful Kingsbury. Epzvorth League President, C. H. Truesdell; First Vice-President, Thankful Kingsbury; Second Vice-President, Susan J. Worcester; Third Vice-President, Nellie Hammett; Fourth Vice-President, George O. Miles; Fifth Vice-President, Bessie Corbin; Sixth Vice-President, James Stone. M. E. CHURCH, BURNSIDE, CONN. Less than a year after Jesse Lee preached the first Methodist ser- mon in Connecticut, Thomas Spencer of East Hartford came under the influence of the Methodists, and invited the Rev. George Roberts to come to his house in Spencer Street and preach to those whom he would invite. A few months later, August, 1790, Mr. Roberts organ- ized the first Methodist Church in East Hartford, in the home of Mr. Spencer. It was composed of six members, two of whom were men and four were women. Four years later Asbury records in his diary a visit to Mr. Spencer's home, and there finds a neat house of worship, THE BURNSIDE CHURCH. 40 by 34 feet. Our church owes much to Mr. Spencer and those asso- ciated with him, who w r ere instrumental in its founding. Among the distinguished preachers who preached in this first church in East Hart- ford were Jesse Lee, George Pickering and Elijah Hedding. In 1862 the Rev. Joel McKee became pastor of the church, and won for his wife Hannah, the talented daughter of Mr. Spencer. Un- der their labors a revival of unusual power spread to all the surround- ing communities. A number of persons at this time united with the Church, who resided in Scotland, now known as Burnside. A class was appointed in that locality, composed of members from leading families. Edmond M. Beebe was appointed leader of this class. The meetings were held in the house of Justin Easton, which stood nearly opposite the Charles Hanmer homestead, but has since been taken down, and on the site has been erected a two-story house, now occu- pied by Mr. Jarman and Mr. Tryon. Among the early members of the class are the names of Mahlon Forbes, William W. Larrabee, John Post, Lucinda Bidwell, Delia Risley, Almira Risley, Maria Risley, SOUVENIR HISTORY. 9 Mary Parmerlee, Edward Olmstead, Sarah Lawrence, Ruth Burnham, Huldah Bidwell, Sabina Fuller, Spencer Moulton and Thomas Justin Easton. For six years the class continued to meet in the house of Mr. Easton, when it is recorded that the members of this thriving- class "were of one mind and one heart" in their purpose to have a building suitable for church services. Subscription papers were circulated and $350 secured, which amount purchased the land and erected the first church for Methodist use in what was then known as Scotland. It stood on the street east of the residence of the late William Hanmer. It still stands, and is used as a barn by Mr. Frank Hanmer. When the church at Scotland was erected, preaching was discon- tinued at Spencer Street. It is supposed by the writer, and others of THE BURNSIDE PARSONAGE. the older portion of the Burnside community, that those who were left, after the withdrawal of those who built the Church at the Center, came to the Scotland Church. Here for a period of twenty-eight years the word of God was dispensed by faithful ministers. Until 1840 the preaching was by various Ministers and exhorters whom the people could secure from time to time. The Xew York East Conference sup- plied the pulpit for a number of years, sending Cephas Brainard and W. H. Farris. From 1850 until 1853 Episcopal services were held in the Church. Almost discouraged, the Methodists were at the point of leasing their building to the Episcopalians for a term of years, when it was proposed to send for Rev. B. C. Plielps, a local preacher living in Hockanum, and Rev. John F. Sheffield, who conducted a series of meetings. The first penitent at the altar was C. D. Hills, who had been an active Episcopalian. He met with a decided change of heart, and afterward entered the Ministry, being appointed for his first pas- torate to this church. He has been for manv vears an honored mem- 10 SOUVENIR HISTORY. her of the New England Conference. Through the interest of this re- vival Methodism was greatly strengthened, and Rev. B. C. Phelps was employed for the year, after which Rev. H. W. Conant was appointed REV. JOHN McVAY. MRS. JOHN McVAY. for one year. During Mr. Conant's pastorate the people began to talk of having a new church. In 1855 Rev. B. C. Phelps was again ap- pointed, and served the church for four years. Largely through the JAS. S. FORBES, Sunday School Superintendent. GEO. A. SNOW, Epworth League President. efforts of Mr. Phelps with the building committee, Mahlon Forbes, Willard Rowell and Allen Symonds, about $4,000 were secured for a new church building, which was dedicated November 27th, 1856. For SOUVENIR HISTORY. II more than thirty-six years this edifice was known as the New Church. Under the efficient pastorates of many of the leading members of the Conference the Burnside Church took its rank with the strong churches of the District. It is characteristic of the church that rarely will it allow its pastors to leave before the expiration of the term. Almost every pastorate witnessed some material improvement. Generous do- nations of cash are frequently recorded by grateful pastors. During the first pastorate of Rev. A. W. Kingsley, in 1873, the interior of the church was improved and a new pipe organ was built. During the last year of the pastorate of Rev. J. S. Bridgford, on the 1 5th of January, 1893, on an intensely cold day, while the Sunday School was in session, the church was discovered to be on fire. Nothing could save it from complete loss. Five thousand dollars were received from insurance. Subscrip- tions were immediately taken, and plans made for a new church, which cost $13,000. Much credit is due to the persevering efforts of the efficient Building Committee, consisting of Mr. Lawrence S. Forbes, Frank C. Gould and James S. Forbes, who, in the face of the hard times which threatened, carried out the new church enterprise to a most complete success. On the 2d of August, 1893, the corner-stone was laid with appro- priate- ceremonies, and on the I4th of March, 1894, the beautiful new church was dedicated. For conveni- ence of arrangement, delicate har- mony in decoration and richly stained windows, few churches of its size will compare with this one. The church is well organized with the Sunday School, Epworth League, Junior League, Ladies' Aid and Missionary Societies. True to its characteristic of loyalty to its pastors, the church has retained its present pastor for the fifth year. Mrs. Martha Olmstead, a deceased member of the church ex- pressed her love for the cause of God by bequeathing $6,385 to the church, to be held as a trust fund, the interest of the same to go toward the support of the preacher in charge. LAWRENCE S. FORBES, Recording Steward. SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1822. JoelW. McKee 1853. 1823. Joseph Ireson 1854-56. 1824. Moses Fifield 1857-58. 1825. Elisha Frink 1859. 1826. Aaron Lummis 1 860-61. Ira M. Bidwell 1862-63. 1828-40. 1864. Supplied by local preachers and 1865-66. exhort ers. 1867-68. 1840-42. Cephas Brainard 1869-70. (New York East Conference.) 1871-72. 1843-44. W. H. Farris J 873-75. (New York East Conference.) 1876-78. 1845-46. Charles Fletcher 1879-81. 1847. Supplied by Mr. Ranson 1882. 1848. Supplied by David Brad- 1883-84. bury 1885-86. 1849-51. Church was occupied by 1887-90. Episcopalians 1891-92. 1852. B. C. Phelps 1893-97. T. F. Sheffield Henry W. Conant B. C. Phelps William O. Cady C. D. Hills George W. Wooding Francis W. Brown J. W. Worcester Robert Clark James S. Thomas Albert L. Deering L. W. Blood Augustus W. Kingsley Joseph H. James Stephen O. Benton Augustus W. Kingsley A. W. Luce Charles S. Morse T. H. Allen J. S. Bridgford John McVay PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Lawrence S. Forbes, Henry Lathrop, James S. Forbes, Frank C. Gould, Samuel A. Gardner, William J. Jarman, John H. Burnham. Stewards Lawrence S. Forbes, John H. Burnham, James S. Forbes, Frank C. Gould. Mrs. Minnie G. Burnham, William J. Jar- man, Mrs. Ada M. Gould, Mrs. Jennie M. Forbes, Mrs. Fannie L. Forbes, Mrs. Allis G. Potter, Henry Lathrop, John Lathrop, Dwight L. Burnham. Sunday School Superintendent, James S. Forbes; Assistant Su- perintendent, Samuel A. Gardner; Secretary, Ralph Dowen; Librarian, Harold Gardner; Treasurer, Mrs. Allis G. Potter. Teachers Mrs. Emma M. Jarman, L. S. Forbes, Rev. John Mc- Yay, Miss Winnie Merrill, Mr. W. S. Jarman, Mrs. A. W. Wickham, Mrs. Elinor Porter, F. C. Gould, George Snow, Mrs. John McVay, Miss Fannie Forbes, Miss Florence Burnham, Miss Gertrude Frye, Mrs. Elizabeth Forbes. Epu'orth League President, George A. Snow; First Vice-Presi- dent, Miss Gertie Fry; Second Vice-President, Miss Mary Forbes; Third Vice-President, Ralph Dowen; Fourth Vice-President, William J. Jarman ; Fifth Vice-President, Miss Edith Stowell ; Sixth Yice-Presi- dent. Miss Emma M. Jarman. Class Leader William J. Jarman. THE COLCHESTER CHURCH. M. E. CHURCH, COLCHESTER, CONN. E. Washburn gives an interesting account of the introduction of Methodism into the town of Colchester about 1806-07. Mr Nolan moved from New London into Colchester. "He invited me to preach at his house. The first time I went there the congrega- O O tion filled the house. La- ter I formed a class and ap- pointed Brother Nolan lead- er. This is the origin of Methodism in Colchester." In 1842 the present site was purchased and a building erected. This was dedicated in March, 1843, Rev. Geo. London preaching from the text Acts v:2O. Roger Albi- ston was stationed until Conference time, when he was succeeded by Robert Allyn. At the time of dedication and during several of the following pastorates the revival interest was very great. Many souls were won for the Alaster. Especially was this so during the pastorate of William O. Cady, when the entire village was stirred by the revival influence. Many souls were saved and the church wonder- fully blessed. Anthony Palmer followed William O. Cady. By his efforts the debt which had hung over the church since its dedication was paid, and the Col- chester Church set free from a heavy burden. During the pastorate of Varnum A. Cooper the revival spirit was again manifest, and many were converted. He secured the building of a beauti- ful parsonage. It was well located, and was a model pastor's home. Under the labors of Rev. G. E. Fuller a great revival broke out, and the church could not hold the people that flocked to it. Conse- quently it was enlarged to meet the growing needs. In fact, the church REV. HERBERT HAZZARD. SOUVENIR HISTORY. was entirely remodelled. The debt incurred at this time was a great hindrance to the later work of the church. The parsonage was sold to pay the debt, and finally it seemed as though the church must be sold. But God had a man for the place, and Brother William Kirkby suc- ceeded in raising the debt of $1,659, anc ^ Colchester Church from that time until the present has been free from debt. The revival spirit which had been growing during the pastorate of C. W. Holden and Charles A. Stenhouse again showed itself during the pastorate of James M. Taber. The church was again repaired during the pastorate of J. S. Bell. JOHN SQUIRES. Sunday School Superintendent. H. H. SAUNDERS. Chairman, Board of Trustees. No debt was incurred. At this time the church began to decline. The rubber mill, which employed a large number of Methodist people, was closed, and the membership decreased from 134 to 48. Many of the leaders left the town to find employment elsewhere. And it was a question what to do with the old historic church of Colchester. The work is now in charge of a student from Wesleyan University. PASTORS. 1843. Roger Albiston 1854-55. 1843-44. Robert Allyn 1856-57. 1845-46. Merritt P. Alderman 1857-58. 1847. Sewell Lamberton 1859-61. Lorenzo Bolles 1862. 1848. Frank W. Bill 1863. 1849. Albert F. Park 1864. 1851-52. William O. Cady 1865-66. 1853. Anthony Palmer 1867-68. Lorenzo W. Blood James M. Worcester Nelson Goodrich Varnnm A. Cooper Hezekiah S. Ramsdell James A. Dean George W. Wooding Caleb S. Sanford Augustus W. Mills SOUVENIR HISTORY. 15 1869-70. G. A. Morse 1888. William S. Foster 1871-72. E. B. Bradford 1889. George H. Hastings 1872-74. A. L. Bearing 1890. Henry E. Parker 1875-76. G. E. Fuller 1891. Alfred Button 1877-78. Thomas Simons Theodore G. Eiswald 1879-81. Charles W. Holden 1892. James O. Dodge 1882-83. Charles A. Stenhouse 1&93-95- John S. Bell 1884-85. William Kirkby 1896. George Gilmore 1886-87. James M. Taber 1896-97. H. Hazzard PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees H. H. Saunders, C. H. Dawley, E. C. Snow, John Squires, W. W. Palmer, H. A. Eastman. Stewards C. H. Dawley, A. Chittenden, W. W. Palmer, H. A. Eastman, Emilie Eastman, E. Hills, Fannie Palmer, George W. Stand- ish, J. A. Gardner. Sunday School Superintendent, John Squires; Assistant Superin- tendent, II. H. Saunders; Librarian, W. W. Palmer; Assistant Libra- rian, Mrs. W. W. Palmer; Organist, Mrs. Eva Snow; Secretary and Treasurer, H. A. Eastman. Teachers George W. Standish, Edwin Hills, Lyclia Jones, Bessie Kempton, H. H. Saunders. M. E. CHURCH, HOPEVALE, CONN. The first Methodist Church in Hebron was built about eighty years ago on what is known as Burroughs' Hill, about one mile from Hopevale. This was afterwards taken clown and sold, and a new one built at Hebron Centre. This was sold to the town in the year 1863, and is now used as the Town Hall. In the year 1849 the church property, situated in what was then called Hope Valley (now Hopevale), was deeded by David Chapman to the trustees in trust for the use of the Wesleyan Methodist Society, and the deed was recorded in the Hebron Town Records. For some years thereafter that denomination sustained services until unable to do so longer on account of members dying or remov- ing. For some years previous to the year 1881 preaching was sus- tained by the Methodist Episcopal denomination, but only at the rate of twelve Sabbaths per year, preachers coming from Colchester or Marlborough. At the Willimantic Camp Meeting in the year 1881 a religious interest was started among the people of Hopevale. Soon afterwards Brother Kathan, laboring among the people, was rewarded by seeing i6 SOUVENIR HISTORY. a number converted. One of the results of this revival was an earnest desire to form a Methodist Episcopal Church in this place. Conse- quently, Sunday, October 10, 1881, Mr. Mitchell formally received into the church Mr. and Mrs. David Johnson and Mrs. Sarah Thomp- son, the only survivors of the Wesleyan Methodis Society, then living in Hopevale. He also received a number ot others by letter and from probation, and baptized and received seven others on probation. The church property was deeded to a board of trustees for the use of the Methodist Episcopal Church February THE HOPEVALE CHURCH. 3, 1882, and the deed record- ed in the Hebron Land Rec- ords. In the spring of 1882 the church was repaired, painted, papered and a new bell, carpet, lamps, chairs and organ purchased. The church was rededicated September 3, 1882, by Presiding Elder H. D. Rob- inson. Since the organization of the church, services have been held regularly, with the exception of three years, when it was closed for want of funds. than twenty-three at one time. This number has been reduced to The church membership has been small, never numbering more eleven by removals and deaths. Mention should be made of the help received from the ladies of the church and society. One year they earned nearly one hundred dollars. The church also receives the interest from a small fund toward paying for preaching. The present year (1897) is an unusually hard one for the church. A few are doing what they can to sustain services, and the pulpit is supplied by Messrs. Hazzard and Woodworth of Colchester. The quaint Communion Service which w r as used in the old church is still in good condition, and is used at the present time in Communion Services. It is said that the first Camp Meeting held in Connecticut was held in a grove about one mile from this place. No record could be found of pastors of the old church, but among them were Daniel Boroughs, Father Griffith, Walter Wilkie, Mr. Dixon and William Tisdale. SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1891. 1892. 1893-94. 1895. 1896. 1897. Mr. Britain F. L. Eiswald J. O. Dodge W. W. Peck J. S. Bell H. Hazzard H. Hazzard F. A. Woodworth 1882. F. L. Hay ward C. H. Gardner 1883. J. H. Roberts 1884. L. L. Hay ward 1885. W. S. Manship G. W. Wood 1886. A. H. Merritt 1887. L. C. Murdock 1890. H. C. Parker The Sunday School Superintendents have been F. G. Waldo, W. S. Manship and James Tefft. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees G. F. Button, N. E. Coates, A. Chittenden, J. Tefft, A. W. Sisson. Stewards G. F. Button, James Tefft, Mrs. Mary Wright, Airs. Emma Sisson, Miss Jennie Goodenough (R. S.), A. Chittenden (D. S.). Sunday School Superintendent, James Tefft; Assistant Superin- tendent, W. O. Turner; Treasurer, Mrs. G. F. Button; Secretary and Librarian, May E. Button. Teachers W. O. Turner, Miss Josephine Allyn, Miss Jennie Goodenough. M. E. CHURCH, DANIELSON, CONN. To the Rev. John Lovejoy is given the credit of preaching the first Methodist sermon in this place. Whether it was in 1830, as claimed by one report, or in 1839, when he spent a night here, preached THE DANIELSON PARSONAGE. i8 SOUVENIR HISTORY in a private house and enrolled the names of five persons as members of a class, but appointed neither class leader nor meeting, is uncertain. In the autumn of 1840 Hezekiah Thatcher, preacher-in-charge of Plainfielcl circuit, preached here several times, and September 22, organized a class of thirteen mem- bers and appointed Edwin Dunlap leader. Regular preaching was not established until the following year, when Rev. A. B. Wheeler, junior preacher on Plainfielcl cir- cuit, and Rev. Stephen W. Ham- mond, a local preacher, residing in Pomfret, arranged for services, which were held first in the school- house, then in the "Conference room" of the Congregational Church, and then in the freight depot, a bale of cotton often serv- ing as a pulpit. Great success at- tended their labors, about sixty conversions occurring during the winter; and "depot power" became a common expression, and was often heard in certain circles. Danielsonville, as the name was till 1895, when the last syllable was dropped by act of the Legislature, appears in the list of appointments, first in 1842, with George May as pastor. He was a man of popular talents, and was heartily received. A much-needed house of worship was erected; the frame was raised July 4, and the house was completed and dedicated September 30 following. Before the close of the year Mr. May withdrew from the church, being car- ried away by the intense anti-slavery excitement which was sweeping over New England. Again Stephen W. Hammond came to the help of the infant THE DAXIELSOX CHURCH. S. H. PERRY, Sunday School Superintendent. SOUVENIR HISTORY. church and was appointed in charge till the ensuing Conference, when he was succeeded by Rev. John Howson. Mr. Howson found the church in a state of excitement and much discouraged, but by wise management the excitement was allayed, so that but few followed their late pastor in withdrawing from the church, a revival spirit pre- vailed, and at the close of his two years term he left a united and prosperous church. In 1851, during the pastorate of Rev. Sidney Dean, it became necessary to enlarge the church, and it was lengthened 16 feet, and the knoll on which it stood was removed, making room for vestries. During the second pastorate of Rev. G. W. Brewster the church was greatly improved, both in the audience room and vestries. In 1873, during the pastorate of Rev. G. E. Fuller, a parsonage REV. WALTER ELA. MRS. WALTER ELA. with a store beneath was erected on the lot adjoining the church, and the next year a pipe organ was placed in the church. The addition and improvements to the church had left a debt which in 1881 amounted to about $4,000. This was a burden heavy to be borne, and under the lead of Rev. Robert Clark, aided by Bishop Peck, who spent a Sunday here, the entire amount was raised, and the church was freed from debt. In 1894, when Rev. J. S. Bridgford was pastor, a commodious and beautifully located house was bought for a parsonage, the old one, being an upstairs tenement in the very business centre of the town, proving to be an unsatisfactory residence for the pastor and his family. This has been a revival church from the beginning. Very few, 2O SOUVENIR HISTORY. if any, have been the years in which it has witnessed no conversions : yet, owing to the changing character of the population, it has often occurred that the removals have been more numerous than the acces- sions. 1842. 1843-44. 1845-46. 1847-48. 1849-50. 1851-52. 1852. 1853-54. 1855-56. 1857-58. 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-64. 1865-66. 1867-68. George May John Howson B. C. Phelps John Livesey S. W. Coggshall Sidney Dean H. S. White L. D. Bentley W. S. Simmons L. W. Blood G. W. Brewster Anthony Palmer Carlos Banning W. H. Stetson G. W. Brewster PASTORS. 1869. 1870-71. 1872-74. 1875-76. 1877. 1878. 1879. 1 880-8 1. 1882-84. 1885-86. 1887-88. 1889-90. 1891-92. 1893-94. 1895. N. G. Lippitt S. Leader G. E. Fuller G. W. Anderson N. G. Lippitt S. O. Benton R. W. C. Farnsworth Robert Clark J. H. James John Oldhani F. L. Hayward G. A. Morse G. H. Hastings J. S. Bridgford Walter Ela PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees President, W. H. Judson, M. D.; Secretary and Treas- urer, C. E. Crosby; C. E. Woodis, C. H. Burroughs, W. F. Day. Stewards C. E. Carpenter (R. S.), W. F. Day (D. S.), Abner Young, D. P. Burlingham, C. E. Woodis, C. E. Crosby, W. H. Jud- son, M. D., W. C. Burdick, H. A. McEwen, S. H. Perry, C. H. Burroughs, S. S. Stone, A. E. Pray. Class Leaders W. C. Burdick, J. H. Briggs. Sunday School Superintendent, S. H. Perry; First Assistant Superintendent, H. A. McEwen; Second Assistant Superintendent, Miss Cora Stephens; Secretary and Treasurer, Nathan D. Prince; Librarian, Louis L. Wilson; Organist, Miss Emma Stone. Teachers D. P. Burlingham, Mrs. E. E. Briggs, Miss Esther Johnson, Abner Young, Mrs. Millie Young, J. M. Crosby, C. E. Car- penter, Mrs. J. W. Day, Mrs. W. F. Day, H. A. McEwen, Miss Cora Stephens, Mrs. F. A. Prince, Miss Emma Hammond, Miss Clara J. Young, Miss Stephens. Epworth League (Chapter No. 851) President, Fred A. Kennedy; First Vice President, S. H. Perry; Second Vice President, Mrs. J. W. Day; Third Vice President, Mrs. C. E. Crosby; Fourth Vice President, Miss Gertrude Burdick; Secretary, Mrs. E. E. Briggs; Treasurer. H. M. Bushnell. M. E. CHURCH, EAST BLACKSTONE, MASS. Methodist services were first held in East Blackstone, Mass., in 1865, by F. H. Myett, at that time a dentist in Woonsocket, R. I., and a local preacher of the Methodist Episcopal Church. For a time meetings were held in private houses, but soon such an interest was aroused that the services were transferred to the schoolhouse, nearly opposite to the present location of the church. A small class was formed, and in 1869 Rev. T. B. Gurney was appointed the first regular pastor. In the early part of the year a petition was circulated for a per- manent building for worship. A church was soon erected at a cost of about $3,500. Owing to busi- ness depression at the time of completion, the Trustees were forced to mortgage the property. THE EAST BLACK STONE CHURCH. The society struggled with this mortgage until 1887, when Rev. W. D. Woodward succeeded in raising $1,300. The church was then dedi- cated clear of all incumbrance. In the Spring of 1895 a parsonage was purchased at a cost of $1,200. Only a small portion of this sum has been paid. REV. H. E. MURKETT. MRS. H. E. MURKETT, Epworth League President. 22 SOUVENIR HISTORY. In 1896 an Epworth League Chapter was organized, with a mem- bership of twenty-four. The Sunday School numbers thirty. 1869. 1870-72. 1873- 1874-76. 1877-78. 1879. 1880. 1881-82. 1883. 1884. 1885. T. B. Gurney J. H. Cooley J. N. Maynard W. R. Mays Charles Nason G. E. Brightman A. H. Baker W. S. Smithers A. J. Church A. C. Jones A. H. Briggs PASTORS. 1885. 1886. 1887-88. 1889-90. 1891. 1892. 1893. 1894. 1895-97. W. R. Newhall W. D. Woodward J. H. Nutting C. M. Demmings F. B. White G. H. Hefflon H. E. Parker John Richards John Richards H. E. Murkett PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees W. A. Thayer, S. H. White, E. W. Thayer, W. H. Estey, A. J. Daniels. Stewards S. H. White, W. H. Estey, Ellis W. Thayer, W. A. Thayer, Harriet P. White, Jane Thayer, Mary E. Thayer, Anna F. Wilcox, Susie F. Aldrich, Abbie M. Hadley, Emma L. Taylor. Sunday School S. H. White, Superintendent; H. E. Murkett, As- sistant Superintendent; Waldo Kelly, Secretary and Treasurer; Carrie Eldred, Librarian. Epworth League Mrs, H. E. Murkett, President; Vice-Presidents, S. H. White, Carrie Eldred and Emma L. Taylor; Secretary and Treasurer, Mary E. Thayer. EAST BLACKSTONE PARSONAGE. S. H. WHITE, Sunday School Superintendent. M. E. CHURCH, EASTFORD, CONN. Methodism in this town dates back to the year 1795. In that year a young lawyer on a visit to his uncle in Woodstock heard Jesse Lee's first sermon in that town, and returned a convert to the new doctrine of free grace. In May, 1815, Captain Leonard Dean deeded the society a piece of land, with a church already built upon it. This place of worship was about two miles west of the present village of Eastford. It seems that the society became weaker, and some- what more concentrated at the village. At any rate, they united at one time with the Universalists, and built a church not many rods west of the present one, and wor- shiped alternately in this house until 1847. I n January of that year Willard Lyon deeded the society a piece of land in the heart of the village. With the opening of Spring the labor on the new church was commenced, and finished and dedicated some time during that Summer. That building still stands, and is the one now used by the society 1 for worship. The church has been renewed time and again by many powerful revivals, and more than once it has been the strongest society in the THE EASTFORD CHURCH. REV. JOSEPH RICHARDSON. MRS. JOSEPH RICHARDSON. 24 SOUVENIR HISTORY. town. The prospects are favorable for its becoming so again. Of the different revivals which have spread over the town, bringing new life into the society, that which occurred during the pastorate of Rev. G. W. Hunt, and also under the present pastorate, were the two most remarkable instances of the outpouring of divine grace. The first mentioned took place twenty-three years ago, when the church was in good condition, and resulted in over one hundred conversions, seventy uniting with the society on probation, many who came afterwards into full connection, and some of them are living to-day. Under the present pastorate the revival broke out suddenly and has continued intermittently until the present time. For two Winters THE RICHARDSON TRIPLETS. TEN DAYS OLD. Lewellyn Oass Richardson, 6% Ibs. Leucretia Emerson Richardson, 6 Ibs. Lewis Hillery Richardson, Q l / 2 Ib. and two Summers additions to the church have been taking place, and the society has arisen from the dying condition in which it had been for some years, to an active, wide-wake and spiritual condition. The early records have been lost, and it is impossible to learn definitely what was done prior to 1870. A list of the preachers from 1834 has been preserved until 1885, since which time breaks in the records occur, and sometimes no preacher was stationed over the society. On September 23 of the past year (1897) this church observed its one hundred and second anniversary, which was an occasion of gen- eral rejoicing. Rev. Daniel Dorchester, D. D., delivered an interesting and instructive historical address. SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1834. William Livesey 1835-36. Stephen Gushing 1837-38. Erastus Benton 1839-40. R. W. Allen 1841. C. C. Barnes 1842. A. Latham 1843. L. W. Blood 1844-45. C- C. Magee 1846-47. Edward A. Lyon, Ap. ARTHUR M. KEITH, Sunday School Superintendent. 1848. 1849-50. 1851. 1852. 1853-54. 1855. 1856-57. 1858. 1859-60. 1861. 1862-63. 1864-65. 1866-67. 1868. 1869-70. 1871. 1872. 1873. 1874-75. 1876.'^ 1877. 1878-70. 1880. ' 1881. 1882-84. 1891-02. 1893-94. 1895. W. S. Simmons Lyman Leffingwell Henry Torbush B. M. Walker D. Dorchester C. A. Sanford Otis Perrin J. F. Fogg Henry Arnold C. Collard Adams L. D. Bentley George A. Morse M. Ransom James H. Cooler N. Goodrich DeWitt C. House S. V. B. Cross George W. Hunt A. B. Wheeler R. D. Dyson S. B. Chase J. S. Thomas S. V. B. Cross George R. Bentle) A. B. Bessey C. A. Purdy W. S. Whelon Joseph Richardson PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Arthur Keith, Dr. E. K. Robins, Robert Arnold, Ariel W. Green, William Harrington, John R. Miller, Orin Wilson, John Sherman, Ira B. Cushman. Stewards Robert Arnold (R. S.), Mrs. Robert Arnold, John R. Miller, Mrs. J. R. Miller, Mrs. Ira B. Cushman, Mrs. John Whitney, Ariel W. Green, William Harrington, John Taylor, Mrs. Lee Lion, Mrs. Jane Grey, Dr. E. K. Robins, Mrs. Hannah Burnham. Sunday School Superintendent, Arthur Keith; Assistant Super- intendent, Mrs. Robert Arnold; Secretary and Treasurer, Mrs. Jane Grey. M. E. CHURCH, EAST GLASTONBURY, CONN. The earliest date of Methodism in Glastonbury is 1793. At that time certain preachers of Methodist persuasion, though laboring under the disadvantage of being ''regarded as wolves in sheep's clothing," entered the town and preached to the people. A Rev. Mr. Smith, holding service at the home of a Mr. Benjamin Hyde, was the first, and the Rev. Nicolas Smithers, a mem- ber of the Tolland circuit, holding services at Mr. Asa Smith's home, followed in 1794. Hearing of the lat- ter' s work, Jeremiah Stock- ing, destined to be the leading spirit in local Methodism, resolved to go and hear for himself re- specting what was com- monly known as the "new doctrine." "My heart's desire," Mr. Stocking said, "was to know the truth and embrace it when known." So impressed was he by the preaching of this faithful servant of God, which was good news to his famishing spirit, as he said, that he embraced Christ and was consciously and soundly converted to God. His experience immediately following is best told in his own words: "But I soon found that it was still true that they that live Godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution; for no sooner had I begun to tell what the Lord had done for my soul than some mocked, some frowned, some pitied me, and others supposed me quite out of my senses. I looked around for friends in whose sympathies I could share, and lo! there were EAST GLASTONBURY PARSONAGE. EAST GLASTONBURY CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 27 none." The nearest Methodist society at that time being at East Hartford, Mr. Stocking connected himself in membership there. Joined soon after by his wife, Asa Smith and wife and one or two others, Mr. Stocking began to hold services at Mr. Israel Hollister's home, in his own neighborhood, where there were a few converts. These services were the first Methodist prayer meetings held in the town. Continuing to improve his gifts in such labors, Mr. Stocking was licensed to preach in 1796, was ordained deacon in 1800, and soon afterward elder. From the day of his conversion to the day of his death, Rev. Jeremiah Stocking, greatly beloved by the brethren, continued faithful in abundant labors for Christ and the Church. He died March 23, 1853, at a ripe old age. East Glastonbury feels justly proud of her historical renown. Many whose names are household words in Methodism have labored INTERIOR VIEW OF THE CHURCH. here and won victories for the cross. It was either in the year 1793 or 1794 probably the latter that Bishop Francis Asbury crossed over the Connecticut River and preached on a great rock in the dis- trict known locally as Wassac. This rock projects from the hillside in what was then a magnificent grove of stately oaks, but now only a cleared pasture land. In the near vicinity of this historic spot is a large oak tree under whose huge branches most of the heroes of New England Methodism have preached. It was at the home of Mr. Halsey Buck, father of Hon. John R. Buck, ex-United States Congressman, that the recon- ciliation of the passionate preacher, John Newland Maffit, with his wife, whom he had left in the old country, took place. With all his failings, tradition points to a great affection toward him by the people among whom he labored. 28 SOUVENIR HISTORY. East Glastonbury was made a regular appointment on the New London circuit in 1796. At that time a class was organized consisting of the following eight persons: Jeremiah Stocking, Amasa Hollister and wife, Asa Smith and wife, Levi Loveland, Lucretia Buck, Gilbert Weir. From 1796 to 1810 the meetings of this infant society were held in private houses, school buildings, barns and in open air. In 1810 a chapel was erected in the district known locally as Wassac, and in this the people worshiped for thirty-six years. In 1846 the population having shifted somewhat, another and more commodious edifice was erected in the heart of the village of East Glastonbury. The dedicatory exercises were held in the month of January, the 2oth day, 1847, during the pastorate of Rev. Lyman Lefrmgwell. About four years later, during the pastorate of the Rev. Charles Morse, the parsonage was erected. This building has been added to and remod- THE ASBURY ROCK. eled somewhat, until now it is quite roomy, convenient and pleasant. It contains six rooms on the ground floor and three finished rooms upstairs. On Sunday morning, June 14, 1885, the last named church edi- fice, dear to the hearts of the saints who had erected it, and precious to all alike as the birthplace of many souls, was utterly destroyed by fire. This was a sad blow. The spirit and faith of the people, how- ever, did not waver for a moment. Promptly and heroically they went to work to make their loss good. The next day after the fire in the evening the official members appointed the Rev. R. D. Dyson, who, the April before, had come into the relation of pastor, to solicit sub- scriptions for the building, and Miss Ada Crosby to solicit for the furnishings. Before another Sabbath sun had dawned every cent necessary for the enterprise complete was pledged, and not one cent SOUVENIR HISTORY. 29 of the amount remained unpaid. The new edifice was dedicated March 1 8, 1886, absolutely free from debt, the Rev. C. B. Pitblado preaching the sermon. The structure is modern in every respect. It contains in the lower story a large vestry, one small vestry or class room, a large and very convenient kitchen, and a good furnace and fuel room. The interior of this story is finished entire in natural wood. Upstairs there is a most beautiful auditorium, finished to the peak with exposed rafters. The furnishings are very elaborate, the colors blending in harmonious effect. The windows are of cathedral glass. To Mr. Edwin Crosby, whose very life and interest were centered in the church, is a large share of the credit due for such an excellent house REV. F. H. SPEAR AND WIPE. of worship. His widow, Mrs. Harriet Crosby, remains with us yet, however, and cheerfully furthers the work of her absent companion as far as her health will permit. Highly respected and greatly beloved, Mr. Anson Treat has served this society as Class Leader for over fifty years. Many have been the saints who have passed from their labors here to their heavenly rest, and many of these have left by will their token of love for the local church in the shape of the following bequests: Henry Hale, $500; Pamelia Hubbard, $269; Edwin Crosby, $250; Horace Latimer, $255; Lucretia Hubbard, $176, making a total of $1,450. The income of this fund is devoted to the work of keeping the church property in repair. To speak of the individual pastorates, they being so many, would be almost an impossibility. Suffice it to say that the laborers were SOL'l'EXIR HISTORY. all faithful servants to God, and their work was well done. Revivals have been frequent, and many in both heaven and on earth are prais- ing God for the faith of their fathers who worshiped here, building GILBERT E. WILLIS. Sunday School Superintendent. MR. ANSON TREAT. Treasurer. up what proved to be their spiritual birthplace. In common with all other churches, the local church has had its reverses, but these have long since been turned to its spiritual advantage. They have simplv MR. EDWIN CROSBY (Deceased). JEREMIAH STOCKING. made possible the noble triumphs which have characterized its history. The church stands to-day rich in faith and vigorous in life. Ail that is known of the pastorates which came previous to 1826 SOUVENIR HISTORY. is found in an historical sketch by the Rev. Jeremiah Stocking. After recording the formation of the first class in 1796, he writes: "Subse- quently, the work was carried on by the blessing of God upon the labors of Revs. David Ostrander, Lawrence McCoomb, Shadrach Bostwick, Timothy Merritt and others." 1826. Aaron Simmons Hector Bronson 1827. Ira M. Bidwell Caleb D. Rogers 1828-29. Heman Perry George Stone 1830. Heman Perry E. Scott 1831. J. E. Rislev E. Scott 1832. J. E. Rislev Philo Hawks 1833-35- Reuben Ransom Phil. Green 1836. George May 1837. E. C. Scott George May 1838. T. W. Gile A. C. W 7 heate 1839. Lozien Pierce 1841. Benjamin M. Walker Lorin C. Collins 1842. Benjamin M. Walker E. Dunham 1843. C. W. Turner 1844. Edmund A. Standish 1845-46. Levi Daggett, Jr. PASTORS. 1847-48. 1849-50. 1851. 1852-53- I854-55- 1856. 1857-58. 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-64. 1865-66. 1867-69. 1870-71. 1-872. 1873- 1874. 1875-76. 1877-78. 1879-80. 1881. 1882-84. 1885-87. 1888-90. 1891. 1892-96. 1897. Lyman Lemngwell Roger Albiston Charles Morse Samuel Fox Nelson Goodrich Charles Hammond Edwin Stanley William Simmons Warren Emerson Robert Clark James H. Cooley Edward M. Anthony Dennison L. Brown Hefflon S. Smith William Turkington John Oldham A. L. Deering S. E. Evans F. C. Newell J. A. L. Rich G. H. Butler R. D. Dyson E. F. Smith E. F. Newell Jacob Betts Francis H. Spear PRESIDING OFFICIARY. Trustees President, A. D. Clark; Secretary, H. R. Brooks; Treasurer, Anson Treat; A. O. Crosby, H. Fisher, John Buchanan, W. E. Rau, John Wilson, S. Cadwell. Stezvards A. D. Clark, John Ainley, John Buchanan, Henry Fisher, T. H. Hodge, George Wilson, E. M. Dutton, Miss A. B. Crosby, Mrs. A. O. Crosby (R. S.), N. H. Staples, Julius Hollister, John Wilson. Sunday School Superintendent, Gilbert E. Willis. Epworth League President, D. C. House. Class Leader H. R. Brooks. Ladies' Benevolent Society President, Mrs. Lizzie Wilson. M. E. CHURCH, EAST HAMPTON, CONN. By J. A. S. In the year 1817 Rev. Joel W. McKee, one of the preachers on the Hebron circuit, came down through Glastonbury and Eastbury into East Hampton, praying in nearly every hoiise on his way, and continued preaching in private houses, until the close of the confer- ence year, in June, 1818. The first Methodist class in East Hampton was probably organized at that time. The Hebron circuit then em- braced the towns in Middlesex and New London counties, between the Connecticut and Thames rivers, and the more southerly towns in Hart- ford and Tolland counties. The circuit was a journey of about six weeks' duration, and the preachers made their visits to East Hampton on week clays until 1828; then once in two weeks on the Sabbath, until 1847, when services were held every Sunday. In 1828, at the Conference which was held at Lynn, Mass., Revs. Thomas G. Brown, Hector Brownson and Samuel Davis were appointed to this circuit. A widespread revival, long known as the ''great reformation," pre- vailed at this time. Rev. Mr. Brown, in a fragment of auto- biography, wrote of the revival as follows: "I made my home in East Hampton. In this place we had a gracious revival; about two hundred experienced religion, including those that were reclaimed from a backslidden state. Never had there been such a work in the place before; nor has there been since." Many of these converts were heads of families, and this revival resulted in greatly strengthening the Congregational Church, as well as establishing the Methodist Church in the place. In 1830 the Methodists built a church on Miller's Hill, 48x36 feet, costing $1,800. Squire Amasa Daniels, the first subscriber, gave $50. In 1848 a church division occurred, and twenty-eight members with- drew and organized the Free Methodist Church, which continued until EAST HAMPTON CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 33 1866. They built an edifice in the centre of the village, 40x30 feet, at a cost of $1,400, which was dedicated April 10, 1851. John Hunter, E. Withev, Peter Feltv, Horace Brown and others were the ministers. BAST HAMPTON PARSONAGE. From 1860-66 services were held occasionally, Rev. Thomas G. Brown and others officiating. In 1866, through the efforts of Elder P. T. Kenney, Mrs. Lucy Strong and Deming W. Sexton, a majority of the members of both churches united under a new organization, and were accepted by the Conference. October 20, 1875, tne united church dedicated the edifice now in use. It is 56x37 feet, and cost about $12,000. The early church was widely known for the talent and spirituality of its membership. Often, after a discouraged or frightened young REV. F. \V. COI.EMAN. MRS. F. W. COLEMAN. 34 SOUTENIR HISTORY. preacher had said all he could, he gave "liberty," and some one of the members was always ready to take up the subject to the edification of all present. The early church also received their full share of persecu- tion. They were often locked out of the schoolhonses, and refused the use of other places for public worship. One person, a physician, declared with a terrible oath, that when he returned from a professional visit he would prevent the Methodists holding their meeting. He has not yet returned, for doctor and patients, a mother and child, were all gone to their last rest before the hour for service arrived. Parents for- bade their children attending the meetings, and pastors condemned their methods and religion, but joyfully accepted "the wildfire converts" to their own communion. Several revivals have occurred during the period of the united church, the most notable during the pastorates of Mellen Howard and J. F. Sheffield. Rev. Thomas G. Brown, one of the circuit preachers here in 18.28, spent his declining years in this place, in the communion of this church. He followed his sons to the war, as Chaplain of the Twenty-first Con- necticut Volunteers, endearing himself to his soldiers by his heroic, tender and faithful services. Rev. George H. Lanison, pastor in '84-5, resides here, and is a valued member of this church. 1818-19. J. W. McKee Edward Hyde 1820. Charles Baker 1821. Zalmon Stewart 1822. Daniel Dorchester 1823-24. Ebenezer Blake 1825. Horace Moulton 1826-27. Lewis Bates 1828. Thomas G. Brown Hector Bronson S. Davis 1829. S. Davis 1830. Reuben Ransom 1 8^ i. Moseley Dwight 1832. P. T. Kenney 1 833-35. Freeman Nutting Amos D. Simpson 1836-37. David Todd W. Wilcutt T. T. Blanchard 1838. T- Nichols 1839. T. W. Guile 1840. A. Holwav PASTORS. 1841. 1842-43. 1844. 1845. 1846. 1847-48. 1849. 1850. 1851. 1852-53- 1854. 1855-56. 1857- 1858. 1859. C. C. Barnes M. Stoddarcl L. Pierce C. Field, Jr. Isaac Arnold W. O. Cady E. A. Standish A. H. Robinson L. N. Turner J. R. Vail Charles Morse J. Cooper J. W. Case A. W. Allen H. Torbush William Turkington F. Gibson H. P. Shepard George H. Whitney W. H. Wardell A. Gould William Hurst William Phillips SOUVENIR HISTORY. 35 1860-65. 1866. 1867-68. 1869. 1870-71. 1872-73. I874-75- 1876-77. 1878-79. Thomas G. Brown 1882. and others. 1883. O. E. Thayer 1884-85. Mellen Howard 1886-88. J. S. Thomas 1889. Anthony Palmer 1890-91. George H. Winchester 1892. A. W. Paige 1893-96. J. F. Sheffield William Kirkby E. M. Anthony 1897. H. M. Cole J. H. Sherman George H. Lamson E. J. Ayres V. W. Mattoon John Pearce M. T. Braley W. S. Foster S. T. Patterson finishing the latter half of 1896. F. W. Coleman PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees William W. Duff, G. H. Buckland, J. S. Markham, H. S. Gates, Jessie R. Clark, J. H. Worthington, W. Dickson, W. Sex- ton, Frank J. Gates. Stezvards W. Dickson, J. E. Clark, Henry S. Gates, J. S. Mark- ham, H. J. Worthington, J. R. Clark, F. J. Gates, Harlow Hills, S. K. White, William Duff. Sunday School Superintendent, Frank Clark; Secretary and Treasurer, Fannie Markham. Teachers J. S. Markham, B. A. Hills, Rev. F. W. Coleman, Charles Crosby, Rev. S. H. Lamson, Miss Sadie Gates, Miss Ida Clark, Mrs. L. Winstanly, Mrs. L. Barton, Mrs. F. H. Barton, Miss X. Nichols. Epworth League President, Miss Fannie Markham; Vice-Presi- dents, Rev. F. W. Coleman, Charles Crosby, Miss Maud Clark, Mrs. S. K. White, Harlow Hills. M. E. CHURCH, EAST THOMPSON, CONN. The early history of the Methodist Episcopal Church at East Thompson is necessarily somewhat incomplete. There is no record as to when the class was organized, nor who were the first members. For a number of years previous to the building of the church in 1843, meetings were held in the schoolhouse. Among the little band of devout worship- ers were two exhorters, Asa Sheldon and Parson Tourte- lotte. These faithful laborers kept up the meetings, and when there was no one from out of the place to preach they with zeal and earnest- ness expounded the Word and exhorted the people to "flee from the wrath to continued to do with their EAST THOMPSON CHURCH. come." After the church was built they might what their hands found to do. There was a number of workers who came from adjacent towns. Among these may be mentioned Hezekiah Davis from Dudley and the Foster brothers, Otis and Rufus, from Webster. Occasionally a Grove Meeting was held, when all the people became co-laborers to- gether for the salvation of the peo- ple. Their labors were not in vain, as many were turned to the Lord. After the church was built was bunt a good man, Otis Perrin, came from Woodstock to supply the pulpit. During the present pastorate a barn was erected, valued at $200, and the church repaired to the ex- tent of about $500. PASTORS. 1843. Otis Perrin 1853. 1844. William Hurd 1854-55. 1845-46. Albert Parks 1856-57. 1847-48. Daniel Dorchester 1857. 1849-50. Peter S. Mather 1858. 1851-52. Thomas W. Douglas 1859-60. REV. J. H. BAKER. Isaac Sherman Daniel Bradbury James H. Soule Isaac Sherman John Holmes John W. Case SOUVENIR HISTORY. 37 1861-62. Walter Ela 1878-80. William E. Taylor 1863. George A. Morse 1881-83. S. V. B. Cross 1864. Henry H. Arnold 1884. Frederick A. Crafts 1865-67. Denison L. Brown 1885. Heflin S. Smith 1868. L. D. Bently 1886-87. Asa N. Bodfish 1869. Isaac Sherman 1888. E. G. Babcock 1870. T. B. Gurney 1889-90. T. C. Denman 1871. F. D. Goodrich 1891-92. Joseph Jackson 1872. De Witt C. House 1893-94. L. H. Massey 1873-74. Nelson Goodrich : 895. J. Harding Baker 1875-77. Samuel Fox PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees G. H. Wilbur, Ira N. Porter, Charles Tourtelotte, Silas R. loslin, Chester L. Robbins, Alonzo O. Woodard. Stewards George H. Wilbur, Ira A. Porter, Silas R. Joslin, Ches- ter L. Robbins, David N. Porter, Alexander White, Alonzo O. Wood- ard, Charles Tourtelotte, Orrin E. Tourtelotte, Mrs. Mary R. Sherman, Miss Mary Jacobs, Mrs. Levina Joslin, Mrs. Winnie Wilbur (R. S.). Class Leader G. H. Wilbur. Local Preachers Orrin E. Tourtelotte, George H. Wilbur. Sunday School Superintendent, G. H. Wilbur; Assistant Super- intendent, Mrs. Lizzie Robbins; Secretary and Treasurer, Miss Mary Jacobs; Librarian, George J. Blake. Teachers Luther D. Robbins, Silas R. Joslin, Mrs. Jennie Robin- son, Mrs. Lizzie Robbins, Miss Mary Jacobs, Miss Fannie Robbins, Miss Richie Sherman. Epworth League President, Alexander White; First Vice-Presi- dent, Miss Fannie Robbins; Second Vice- President, Mrs. Ella Hayle; Third Vice-President, G. H. Wilbur; Secretary, Earnest A. Robbins; Treasurer, Ira N. Porter; Collector, Miss Richie Sherman. M. E. CHURCH, EAST WOODSTOCK, CONN. The first Methodist class in East Woodstock was formed October 2, 1827, with John Chaffee, a very devout man, as first class leader, but not until twenty years later (1847) was a pastor sent, Rev. Benjamin M. Walker, of precious memory, being then appointed first preacher in charge. For five years meetings were held in "The Brick Hall" (so called) until 1852, when a house of worship, erected years before in West Woodstock, was taken down and removed to East Woodstock, in which services have been held ever since. The second class leader was Hosea Chaffee. The following facts were gathered by Rev. A. H. Bennett in 1886 (at which time he was pastor here), and formed a part of an address EAST WOODSTOCK CHURCH. delivered by him. Col. Jonathan May, in charge of a mill in East Woodstock (called then Muddy Brook), in 1826 hired Mrs. Sylvester Stanley, a widow. A stanch Methodist, Mrs. Stanley had been wont before coming here to open her doors for Methodist meetings. Soon she invited an itinerant to preach. Colonel May forbade her repeating this. "Colonel May," said Mrs. Stanley, "we have faithfully worked for you." "Yes, but," said the Colonel. "No 'buts' about it," she con- tinued. "I live in my own hired house, and shall worship my God ac- cording to the dictates of my own conscience. If I cannot do so here, I shall be compelled to go where I can." Thus it ended. Mrs. Stan- ley and her children were too good help to discharge. Her heroism made her many friends. Rev. E. S. Stanley was one of her children. In East Woodstock, at seven years of age, he called other chil- dren together on "Factory Street," to tell them the sinfulness of swear- ing and Sabbath breaking. Mr. Stanley looks back to this as the be- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 39 BAST; WOODSTOCK PARSONAGE. ginning of his very useful ministry. A revival followed the meetings in Mrs. Stanley's house, until within two years a class of forty-five mem- bers, organized October 2, 1827, declared Methodism "come to stay" in East Woodstock. John Chaffee was the first class leader. Among the circuit preachers in those olden days was that true and noble man, Rev. O. Robbins. He was still living and a resident of East Wood- stock during the writer's first pastorate here, in 1869-70. He was always kind and heavenly- minded, and was still able to exhort and pray "as one in- spired." At this point in the history of Methodism in East Woodstock, Conn., Captain Nathaniel Jones deserves espe- cial mention. Methodist preach- ers he gladly welcomed, and when, in 1828, strife ensued from an attempt to hold meet- ings in the village schoolhouse, having the means, he ended it by adding to his own house a two-story L, arching the upper story, the L being about fifty feet long. Here, in "Captain Jones' own hall," the Methodists wrought for the Master. Not far from this time a new schoolhouse ,vas built, and money was raised by the more liberal-minded to add a story for a hall. This was done, although this hall was seldom used by the Methodists until 1847, when Rev. Benjamin M. Walker, East Woodstock's first Methodist pastor, began regular preaching services therein. In this "Brick Hall," as it is now called, the Methodist pastors "declared glad tidings" for about five years. Then Rev. Daniel Dorchester, in the second year of his pastorate, seconded by his people, successfully sought to build a house of worship in East Woodstock. This was done by buying the house in West Woodstock and removing it here. This is the present house of worship. During L. D. Bentley's pastorate and also to some extent since, repairs and changes have been made, Thomas Milligan, who joined the church about that time, contributing liberally, with others, for the purpose. Mrs. Eliza Child Cooms gave the society her house near the church, possession being taken after her decease, a few years since. It makes a pleasant itinerants' home. SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1847. Benjamin M. Walker 1848-49. William Turkington 1850. J. W. Sheffield 1851-52. Daniel Dorchester These four preached in what we call "The Brick Hall," the church being built in 1852, Mr. Dorchester preaching in it during a part of the second year. Henry W. Smith preached in 1853. He was killed in the Black Hills by Indians, August 25, 1876. I854-55- 1856-57- 1858. 1859. 1860. 1861-62. 1863. 1864. 1865. 1866. 1867. 1868. 1869-70. 1871. 1872. 1873-74. John D. King 1875-76. David Bradbury 1877. Caleb Sanford Nathan Culver 1878. G. D. Boynton 1879. Samuel A. Windsoi 1880-81. William S. Simmons 1882-84. Horace Moulton 1885-86. Daniel Pratt 1887-88. Mellen Howard 1889-90. D. G. Ashley 1891. Merrick Ramon 1892. Otis E. Thayer 1893-94. L. D. Bentley 1895. Tabez Park 1896. S. V. B. Cross S. B. Chase William R. Mays George H. Chappell E. L. Latham William Turkington S. Anndon George D. Bentley A. H. Bennett Daniel Brown Francis B. White B. C. Denman W. R. Whelon J. J. Adams Joseph Richardson Otis E. Thaver PRESENT OFFICIARY. Recording Steward William Myers. Class Leader Edwin Farrows. Sunday School William J. Myers, Superintendent; George L. Wilcox, Assistant Superintendent; Henry Moore, Secretary and Treasurer. Teachers John Gage, Thomas Bradshaw, Mrs. Moffitt, Mrs. H. M. Gardner, Mrs. Webber. M. E. CHURCH, GALE'S FERRY, CONN. By D. C. Perkins. Of the formation and early history of the first Methodist Society in Gale's Ferry but little can be ascertained. It appears that Dr. George Roberts preached a sermon here in the open air July, 1/93, to a large congregation. This was followed by THE GALE'S FERRY CJ preaching occasionally by different men, until 1803. About this time the old Separatist Congregational Church, standing about three miles from Gale's Ferry, on the road to Ledyard Center, was moved to the site of the present church, and among the ministers who preached occasionally were Amos T. Thompson, Jesse Stoneman, Daniel Os- trander, Timothy Dewey and Lorenzo Dow. In 1803 Gale's Ferry was taken into the New London Circuit by Aaron Hunt and Benjamin Hill. In May of the same year a class was formed, consisting of eight persons Ralph Hurlbutt, Jon- athan Stoddard and wife, Na- than Avery and wife, Hannah Hurlbutt, Lydia Stanton and Lucy Hurlbutt. Ralph Hurlbutt was appointed class leader, and the same year eleven more were added. In 1806 Mr. Hurlbutt was licensed to exhort, and in 1810 he obtained a local preacher's license. He preached until 1840. THE GALE'S FERRY PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. During this time the people were addressed once in two weeks by the circuit preachers. From 1840 to 1846 other ministers assisted Mr. Hurlbutt, until in THOMAS LATHAM. Sunday School Superintendent. JOHN E. PERKINS. 1846 his health failing, when Daniel Dorchester, Mr. Dixon and others supplied the place until 1851. Mr. Dunham was then stationed here. CHAUTAUQUA CIRCLE. In 1857, during the pastorate of J. E. Heald, a building committee of three was formed, Christopher Allyn, John E. Perkins and Ralph Stoddard, and the present church was built, costing $3,221. The SOUVENIR HISTORY. available funds and subscriptions being insufficient, the committee as- sumed the remaining debt, being secured by a mortgage on the prop- erty of $969.75, which was canceled a few years later. The new church was dedicated October 2, 1859. The sermon in the morning was by Rev. G. F. Cox and in the evening by Robert Parsons. An addition was built to the parsonage during the pastorate of William Taylor. The church now has a membership of sixty-two, and a fund of $3,000, at interest, the two largest bequests being a gift of $1,000 by Hibbard R. Norman and sister, and another of $1,000 by Hannah J. Norman. An interesting Chautauqua Circle is connected with the church. 1806-46. Ralph Hurlbutt 1846-50. Daniel Dorchester Mr. Dixon DUDLEY C. PERKINS. PASTORS. 1851. 1852. 1853- I854-55- 1856-57- 1858-59. 1860-62. 1863-65. 1866-67. 1868-70. 1871-73. i874-75- 1876-78. 1879-81. 1882-84. 1885-86. 1887-91. 1892-94. 1895-96. 1897. Mr. Dunham E. F. Hinks O. Huse G. W. Case G. E. Heald L. D. Bentley David Bradbury Warren Emerson G. D. Boynton D. G. Ashley J. M. Worcester F. C. Newell William Turkington Nelson Goodrich W. M. Turkington C. H. Dalrymple William A. Taylor Thomas Denman John Q. Adams J. B. Ackley PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees C. L. G. Chapman, Frank Norman, J. E. Perkins. D. C. Perkins, C. A. Satterlee, Thomas Latham. Stewards J. E. Perkins, Thomas Latham, C. A. Brown, D. C. Perkins, C. H. Chapman, C. L. G. Chapman, Courtland Colver, Mrs. Susan Satterlee, Mrs. Frances Rogers, Mrs. Daniel Palmer, Mrs. J. E. Perkins. Sunday School Superintendent, Thomas Latham; Assistant Su- perintendent, D. C. Perkins; Secretary and Treasurer, Miss Alice Sat- terlee; Librarian, Courtland Colver; Organist, Mrs. Hannah Chapman. Teachers Mrs. Daniel Palmer, Mrs. Sarah Colver, Mrs. Sarah Latham, Mrs. J. E. Perkins, Miss Kate Colver, Miss Hattie Brown, Rev. J. B. Ackley and Miss Laura Perkins. Chautauqua Circle J. B. Ackley, President; D. C. Perkins, Yice- President; Emma Davis, Treasurer; Laura Perkins, Secretary. M. E. CHURCH, GARDNER LAKE, CONN. In the year 1831 a glorious revival took place in Montville, near Gardner Lake, through the labors of John Whittelsy and Azel Otis, two local preachers. A society was formed August i, 1831, by Orange Scott, Presiding Elder on the Springfield District, and Reuben Ransom and Mosley Dwight, preachers on Hebron Circuit. Conference preachers and local preachers continued to hold meet- ings in the schoolhouses and groves until the Spring of 1835, when Ezra Withey was appointed by the New England Conference to Un- casville and Montville (Gardner Lake). J. F. Blanchard and Charles Carter were his colleagues. The churches both at Montville and Un- casville were built that year. There is no reliable record of the names of the early preachers at Montville. But we find that Freeman Nutting, Walter Wilkey, REV. G. W. CRABB. W. R. PARKINSON, Sunday School Superintendent. Lozien Pierce, Henry Torbush, J. Cardwell, Oliver Beckwith, Sidney Dean, Joseph Weaver, George Burnham, W. W. Hurd, Edward B. Hinckley, Erastus Benton and Daniel Dorchester and probably others supplied the Montville pulpit from the Spring of 1836 to 1843. At this time Jesse B. Denison was stationed there as preacher in charge. He seems to have had quite a revival, a large number being taken into the church in the two years that he was stationed there. Under the labors of George R. Bentley, 1872-74, a revival took place and a number were added to the church. Since then removals from the society and death have decreased the membership. There has been no particular excitement under the present pas- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 45 torate, but the Holy Ghost has been manifested in great power at times. Thirty have been added to the church in full membership and nine probationers. The interior of the church has been painted and decorated, and the outside painted. A parsonage and barn have been built, costing about $1,200. PASTORS SINCE 1844. 1845. G. S. Judd 1866. George R. Bentley 1846. Abraham Holloway 1867-70. Joseph H. Phillips 1847. M. Leffingwell 1871. Henry Torbush 1848-49. Edmond Standish 1872-74. George R. Bentley 1850-52. W. Dixon 1875-76. G. D. Boynton 1853-54. W. Phillips 1877-79. George R. Bentley 1855. G. D. Boynton 1880. Hugh Montgomery 1856. Manuel Kinney 1881-82. H. N. Brown 1859-60. Phineas Crandall 1883. N. G. Lippett 1861-62. Henry Torbush 1891. T- F. Sheffield 1862-63. J. B. Bishop 1892. C. A. Purdy '1864-65. Lorenzo D. Bentley 1893. G. W. Crabb PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees James Manwarring, F. P. Ladd, George A. Gardner. Stewards George N. Ford (D. S.), George A. Gardner (R. S.). D. Y. Miner, F. D. Miner, A. F. Gardner, Frank Austin, Theo. Leh- mann, Ely Gardner, Mrs. M. Iva Gardner, Fannie Gardner and Susan Austin. Sunday School Superintendent, William R. Parkinson; Assistant Superintendent, George A. Gardner; Secretary and Treasurer, F. D. Miner; Librarian, Theo Lehmann. Teachers George W. Crabb, George A. Gardner, M. Iva Gard- ner, Anna C. Crabb, Mrs. E. F. Yerrington. M. E. CHURCH, GREENE, R. I. At the instance of Mr. G. W. Rider, Whipple Phillips and wife. Lyman Davis and wife, and Stephen Damon and wife, the Methodist Episcopal Church was formed at Greene, R. I. As there had been no religious service in the community for a long period, these friends of Methodism, having a superior insight of the high importance and spiritual needs of the place, labored earnestly to establish divine worship here. As others were well inclined towards the movement, an effectual door was opened. In the Spring of 1873 Mr. Phillips kindly threw open his commodious hall for the accommo- SOUi'ENIR HISTORY. dation of the worshipers. The church was organized in the Fall of 1873, and Stephen Damon was appointed class leader. Rev. J. Q. Adams, who was then pastor at South Scituate, R. I., united this charge to his labors, and served faithfully until the ensuing Conference, when G. W. Hunt was appointed preacher in charge, during whose pastorate the present church edifice was erected. It was dedicated by the Presiding Elder, G. W. Brewster, Octo- ber 4, 1876. The building accommodates about 200 persons, and its cost was $1,500. An act to incorporate the Trustees of the M. E. Church at Greene was passed March i, 1876. The Trustees were G. W. Rider, S. Da- mon, E. E. Rider. After the organization of the church, business con- tinued to flourish in this section for a considerable time. The church was then an efficient agency for good, a fruitful garden of the Lord. It is to be lamented that there came an ebb in the tide of affairs which compelled several of its members and many people of the vicin- ity to secure their livelihood elsewhere. During the first year of the pastorate of the Rev. E. J. Sampson the church underwent necessary repairs and was re-dedicated Decem- ber 31, 1895, by the Presiding Elder, G. H. Bates. 1873- 1874. 1875- 1876. 1886. J. Q. Adams G. W. Hunt Nelson Goodrich L. E. Dunham G. W. Hunt G. E. Brightman Stanton Austin PASTORS. 1887. 1894. 1895-96. 1897. Charles Smith H. Cartledge J. Jackson C. B. Bromley E. J. Sampson T. W. Douglass PRESENT OFFICIARY. Emma F. Borden, Sirena B. Davis, George N. Rider, Lucinda Rider, A. Aldrich, Martha Aldrich, William S. Wright. Sunday School Superintendent, Emma F. Borden; Secretary, Mary F. Sampson ; Treasurer, Martha Aldrich. Teachers Bates Potter, Mary F. Sampson, Emma F. Borden. M. E. CHURCH, GURLEYVILLE, MANSFIELD, CONN. The first Methodist meeting-house in Mansfield was erected at Wormwood Hill in 1797. This was used as a place of worship for the M. E. Society until 1826, when, on account of disagreement between the Ecclesiastical societies, a portion of the society withdrew and built THE GURLEYVILLE CHURCH AND PARSONAGE. a church in Gurleyville on the site of the present one. This church was dedicated in 1827. Mr. Osburn of Manchester preached the dedicatory sermon. This building was occupied until 1847, when the present church was erected, Daniel Wise preaching the dedicatory sermon. REV. B. P. RAYNOR. MRS. B. P. RAYNOR. Iii 1889 the church edifice was extensively repaired, the building newly furnished, a furnace put in and bell placed in the tower, through the SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. efforts of Mr. and Mrs. S. V. B. Cross. The church was rededicated at this time, Eben Tirrell preaching the sermon. The greatest revival in the history of the church occurred under the labors of L. D. Bentley. in 1850. Many souls have been born of God and added to the church from time to time, and all through her history she has had noble and devoted friends. The present membership of the church numbers seventy-five. PASTORS. Thomas Smith 1807. Hollis Sampson G. R. Norris 1808. B. F. Lambord 1809. Benjamin Hill William Hinman 1810. Joel Steel Samuel Cutler 1811. Philip Munger Robert Arnold 1812. Charles Marble T. W. Tasker 1813. Edward Hyde P. E. Sabin Benjamin Sabin 1814. Joel Winch Joel Pratt 1815. W. Marsh Orin Roberts 1816. Solomon Winchester Nathan Payne 1817. B. Sabin S. Winchester 1818. Leonard Bennett H. Davis 1819. Leonard Bennett F. Dane 1820. E. Blake D. Dorchester 1822. Joel W. McKee Allen Barnes 1823. Joseph Ireson John W. Case 1824. Moses Fifield Joseph Ireson 1825. E. Fink B. F. Lambord M. Frink 1826. E. Otis P. E. Fletcher D. L. Fletcher C. D. Rogers MRS. CHARLOTTE TURNER. Sunday School Superintendent. 1792. i/93- 1/94- 1795- 1796. 1797-98. 1798. 1800. 1801. 1802. 1803. 1804. 1805. 1806. George Roberts Joseph Lovell Samuel Smith G. Pershing Christopher Sprey W. Snethen Evan Rogers Thomas Cooper L. M. Combs Daniel Ostrander Abner Wood Augustus Joslin Henry Earns Elijah Bachelor A. M. Lane A. Joslin E. Bachelor John G. Noble A. Thomas Benjamin Hill John Tinkham SOUVENIR HISTORY. 49 1827. 1828. 1829. 1830. 1831. 1832. 1833- 1834. 1835-36. 1837- 1838. 1839. 1840. 1841. 1842. 1843- 1844-45. 1846. 1847- 1848. E. Otis 1849-50. Rufus Spaulcling 1851. Herman Perry 1852-53. George Stone l &54- H. S. Ramsdell 1855-56. P. Townsend J 85/. H. Moulton 1858. J. W. Case 1859. J. E. Risley 1860. P. Townsend 1861-62. H. S. Ramsdell E. M. Bebee 1863-65. J. Haskell 1866-67. Henry Mayo 1868-70. Samuel Heath 1871-73. Windsor Ward 1874. E. B. Bradford 1875-76. B. M. Walker 1877. William Wolcott 1878-79. M. S. Leonard 1 880-81. H. Torbush 1882. Elias Scott 1883. Erastus Benton 1884. Abraham Holway L. Pierce 1885-86. P. T. Kenney, P. E. 1887. M. P. Alderman 1888-89. Edward A. Standish 1890. J. Blackmer 1891. William Bevens 1892-94. William Turkington 1895-97. R. Albiston L. D. Bentley Peter Mather J. W. Case J. H. Soul Albert M. Allen G. D. Boynton J. W. Case F. C. Newell F. C. Newell Zita Loveland I. Jones David Bradbury Jabez Pack T. W. Douglass J. O. Dodge D. J. Griffin L. W. Blood E. L. Latham James Tregaskis J. S. Thomas John G. Gammons C. H. Dalrymple William W. Ellis H. H. Arnold Daniel Brown W. C. Norris S. V. B. Cross F. A. Ferguson John Livesey J. Harding Baker B. F. Raynor PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees S. D. Yeomans, Edward Smith, Otis Conant, Philo Harks, George A. Walker, Hyzer Simons, Henry White. Stewards Edward Smith, Hyzer Simons, Henry Nason, Henry White, Martha Yeomans, George A. Walker, Mary Simons, S. D. Yeomans, Albert Summer, Phoebe Hanks, Ellen Wilkins, Agnes Dim- mock, Fremont Dunham. Sunday School Superintendent, Charlotte Turner; Assistant Su- peiintendent, George A. Walker; Secretary and Treasurer, Charlotte Walker; Librarian, Edith Nason. Teachers Samuel D. Yeomans, Martha Yeomans, Ellen S. Wil- kins, Mary Simons, Lucy Smith, Mariette Walker, B. F. Raynor. M. E. CHURCH, HAZARDVILLE, CONN. In 1830 a class was formed at Scitico, and soon after another at Jaw Buck. The use of a schoolhouse was then obtained, where once in two weeks preaching services were held by the preachers of the East Windsor Circuit. The school- house soon became too small to ac- commodate the increasing numbers of worshipers. The time had come to build, and a church edifice was erected, costing $1,200, and was dedicated December I, 1835. This church was literally located in the woods, yet its location was wisely chosen. The Hazard Pow- der Company had established its important plant in that vicinity, making it certain that quite a vil- lage would soon spring into exist- ence. Hazardville was made an in- dependent charge in 1838. Walter Wilkie was its first preacher. He reported at the close of the year a membership of seventy-six. THE HAZARDVILLE CHURCH. At the close of 1840 the membership had risen to 173. In 1842 the first parsonage was built. In 1844 the charge first appeared under the name of Scitico. The bell was purchased this year, and for fifty-two years has been calling the people to the house of prayer. At about this time the salary of the preacher was $300. The missionary collection was about $32. In 1848 the parsonage was sold, and one more commo- dious and more convenient to the church was built. During tne pastorate of Caleb S. San- ford, 1853-54, the church building was enlarged and im- proved at an expense of $2,- 200. The church was mani- festing a decidedly progressive spirit. This building, how- ever, did not long suffice for this aggressive and growing society. THE HAZARDVILLE PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 5! In 1870, under the administration of James Mather, the matter of building a more desirable house of worship began to be agitated. Funds were pledged and a building committee was chosen, consisting REV. P. M. VINTON. MRS. P. M. VINTON. of A. D. Bridge, F. T. Smith, Edward Prickett, David Gordon and George Bridge. These were strong men and true. Under their super- vision a handsome and commodious temple of worship was erected. A. D. BRIDGE. Sunday School Superintendent. W. W. GORDON. President Y. P. S. C. E. The structure was of brick and would be an ornament to any town or -city. It was dedicated in August, 1872. Dr. James Porter preached the dedicatory sermon. The work of improvement did not end here. 52 SOUVENIR HISTORY. A better parsonage must be built. Most of the money required, be- yond the proceeds of the old parsonage, was given by the members of the official board, Edward Prickett contributing the generous sum of $1,250. This beautiful house was completed in 1876, and was fur- nished by the ladies at an expense of over $500. The total value of church property at this time was $28,799. A debt of $4,700 remained on the society. At this time the church en- tered upon a period of great spiritual prosperity; 1855 was a semi-cen- EDWARD PRICKETT. DAVID GORDON. tennial year to this people, and in the joy of this celebration every dol- lar of debt was swept away, and not only so, but a fine pipe organ was purchased and extensive improvements made. The total amount of money raised this year for these purposes was $6,369. C. W. Gal- lagher, D. D., was pastor at this time, and rendered valuable service in all this work. The salary of the preacher was fixed at $1,200, and has remained thus ever since. From; that time to the present the church has exerted a rapidly widening influence for good. It stands to the front in its response to the church benevolences. In 1897 its contributions for foreign missions alone rose to the noble sum of $1,167. Th contributions of the Sunday School this year for this cause were $327. The outlook of the church has never been better. 1 836-37- 1838. 1839- 1840. 1841. W. Ward W. Wilkie B. M. Walker J. Howson W. Emerson PASTORS. 1843-44. 1845. 1846-47. 1848. 1849-50. L. Leffingwell C. W. Turner W. S. Simmons A. Gardner C. Morse SOUVENIR HISTORY. 53 i8;i-52. L. W. Blood 1872-73- E - H - Hatfield 1853-54. C. S. Sanford 1874. R. Clark 1855-56. A. Palmer 1875-77. N. G. Axtell 1857-58. G. W. Rogers 1878. G. W. Miller 1859. W. Sheldon 1879-80. S. McBurney 1860-61. J. F. Sheffield 1881-83. W. Ela 1862-63. J. Mather 1884-86. C. W. Gallagher 1864. ' E. B. Bradford 1887-89. W. A. Luce 1865-66. C. A. Merrill 1890-91. W. J. Smith 1867-69. R. Parsons 1892-94. T. J. Everett 1870-71. J. Mather 1895-97. p - M. Vinton PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees George Bridge, George B. Gordon, A. D. Bridge, Ar- thur Colvin, David Gordon, Edward Prickett, F. W. Parsons, Ephraim Bridge. Stewards William Gordon, David Gordon, Edward Prickett, George Bridge, Andrew Gordon, Arthur E. Gordon, H. S. Bridge, E. D. Prickett, Olin Olmstead, H. W. Miner, E. E. Randall (R. S.), W. A. Bridge, Henry Colvin. Class Leader A. D. Bridge. Sunday School Superintendent, A. D. Bridge; Secretary and Treasurer, H. W. Miner; Librarian, E. J. Bridge. Teachers Edward Prickett, P. M. Vinton, Mrs. P. M. Vinton, G. H. Miner, George Whiton, David Gordon, Effie M. Prickett, Mrs. G. H. Miner, Effie G. Gordon, W. W. Gordon, Ida M. Allen, Mrs. E. J. Bridge, Jennie Wheeler, M. Eugenia Pearl, Cora B. Abbe, Mary L. Bridge, Mrs. G. B. Gordon, Emily Bridge, Mrs. H. S. Bridge. Y. P. S. C. E. President, W. W. Gordon; Superintendent Junior League, Mrs. P. M. Vinton; Assistant Junior League, Mrs. Andrew Gordon; President Ladies' Aid Society, Mrs. George Whiton; Presi- dent W. F. M. S., Mrs. G. B. Gordon; President W. H. M. S., Mrs. P. M. Vinton. M. E. CHURCH, JEWETT CITY, CONN. Prior to 1874 there had been no regular preaching- nor church or- ganization in Jewett City. There was a Methodist Church at Hope- ville, of which Rev. James Tregaskis was pastor. It was thought best, as there were a few Methodists in Jewett City, to unite with Hopeville. THE JEWETT CITY CHURCH. THE JEWETT CITY PARSONAGE. At the Annual Conference, held at North Bridgewater, March 25, 1874, Mr. Tregaskis was appointed pastor of these two charges. He found but seven members of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Jewett City, but quite a number that were in sympathy with the doctrines of our church. With that zeal which is characteristic of true Methodism, he REV. M. T. BRAYLEY. FRED A. BROWN, Sunday School Superintendent. secured the only available place, Liberty Hall, and held his first preach- ing service Sunday evening, April 12, 1874. A class and Sunday School were organized May 3, 1874. Revival services were commenced September 13, 1874, and God set His ap- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 55 proval upon this movement by the outpouring of His spirit and the salvation of scores of souls, under Mr. Tregaskis' preaching. The church was organized January 26, 1875, and Trustees and Stewards were elected by the Quarterly Conference, held at Hopeville. In compliance with the request of the people, Jewett City was made a separate charge April 14, 1875, and the Rev. James Tregaskis appointed pastor. Steps were immediately taken to secure a house to worship in. Success crowned their efforts. In September, 1875, the foundation of the house was laid, and on January 27, 1876, the church was dedicated, Rev. Joseph H. James preaching the dedicatory ser- mon. In 1890 a very pleasant and comfortable parsonage was built, during Rev. Ambrie Field's pastorate. The church is greatly indebted to the Rev. E. M. Anthony, a supernumerary of this Conference, for the efficient service which he has rendered. The church at present is prospering and doing good work for the Master. PASTORS. 1874-76. James Tregaskis 1888-89. J ohn Thompson 1877. D - J- Griffin 1890. ' Ambrie Field 1878-80. G. W. Brewster 1890-91. R. H. Eldridge 1881-83. Samuel McKeown 1892. Ambrie Field 1884. Charles H. Dalrymple 1893-94. Joseph Jackson 1885. D. S. Brown 1895-97. M - T - Braley 1886-87. Walter P. Buck PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Rev. E. M. Anthony, G. H. Bromley, John P. Gorman, John C. Lewis, Edmund Wood, Kingsley Chapman, Stephen P. Green, Jonathan Niles, L. D. Howe. Stewards Rev. E. M. Anthony, Edmund Wood, John P. Gor- man, G. H. Bromley, Fred A. Brown, William C. Jeffers, Kingsley Chapman, John Walpole, Jonathan Niles, Adeline A. Gardiner, Sadie A. Jeffers, Mary J. Wood, Harriet L. Bromley. Sunday School Superintendent, Fred A. Brown ; Assistant Super- intendent, Robert J. Hall ; Secretary and Treasurer, John P. Gorman ; Librarian, G. H. Bromley. Teachers -M. T. Braley, Rev. E. M. Anthony, Mrs. A. A. Gar- diner, Mrs. Annie E. Braley, Edmund Wood, Miss Clara E. Wood, Robert J. Hall, Miss Maud L. Barrett. Epworth League President, M. T. Braley; First Vice-President, Miss Clara E. Wood; Second Vice-President, Lizzie A. Higgs; Third Vice-President, Mrs. Annie E. Braley; Fourth Vice-President, Sadie A. Jeffers; Fifth Vice-President, Fred A. Brown; Sixth Vice-Presi- dent, Mary E. Medbury. Junior Epworth League Superintendent, Miss Clara E. Wood. Woman's Home Missionary Society President, Mrs. A. A. Gar- diner; Secretary, Miss Annie Chapman; Treasurer and Corresponding Secretary, Mrs. Abby G. Anthony. Ladies' Aid Society President, Mary J. Wood; Secretary and Treasurer, Mrs. A. A. Gardiner. THE LYME CHURCH. M. E. CHURCH, LYME, CONN. The Methodist Episcopal church was organized at the school- house in what is called the Mile Creek District, in the year 1842. The Stewards were Stephen L. Peck, David Morley, Ichabod Kellogg, John Gilbert and Edward Havens. The Trustees were the same, with Charles L. Morley added. Ed- ward Havens was appointed Class Leader. Daniel An- derson united with the church a little later, but his ability and faithfulness as a worker, and his self-sacrificing devo- tion to the interests of the church, entitle him to a place among the honored fathers of Methodism in Lyme. Of these men, Charles L. Mor- ley, now 8 1 years of age, is the only survivor. Previous to 1842 there had been Methodist preaching in Lyme for many years. According to Abel Stevens, Jesse Lee, en route from New Haven to New London, preached in Lyme about Sep- tember i, 1789, but in w r hat part of the town is not now known. Nearly thirty years passed before another Methodist preacher invaded the soil of Old Lyme. Two young ladies by the name of Greenfield had at- tended a Methodist meeting at what is now East Lyme, been convert- ed, and invited the preacher, Rev. Mr. Hanks, to visit Old Lyme and preach in their father's house. The appointment was made, the spa- cious kitchen was set in order, and a large number of people assembled to see and hear one of the men who were turning the world upside down. The preacher took for his text Acts x: 29, "I ask, therefore, for what intent ye have sent for me?" and repeated it, turning toward the old farmer sitting in the chimney corner, who, thinking the question addressed to him personally, replied w r ith some resent- ment. "It's no such thing. THE LYME PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 57 I never sent for you." Elisha Greenfield, a grandson, and an aged and honored member of this church, still lives in the same house. Tn the same year there was a class formed. In 1820 Rev. REV. D. G. ASHLEY. JOHN SWANEY. Recording- Steward. Lewis Bates proclaimed a present, full and free salvation; in 1827 Rev. H. Bronson, H. Davis and Mr. Brown, who were on the Old Hebron Circuit, found their way into Lyme. Then up to 1831 the meetings N. L. SHEFFIELD, Sunday School Superintendent. L. S. WATROUS, Epworth League President. were sustained by the members of the class, and an occasional visit from local preachers. At a watch meeting, held in the Mile Creek schoolhouse, in 1830, the power of God came down upon the people 5 8 SOUVENIR HISTORY. and many were converted. This was one of the occasions so frequent in the past, when the strong opposition which Methodism encountered in almost every New England town was signally defeated by the power of the Holy Ghost upon the people. At another time, when a number of men had banded together to make an attack upon the preacher, in a private house, Stephen Peck, at a given signal, rose to his feet to lead in the assault; at that moment a large cat that had been lying upon a bureau sprang upon his shoulders ; he became greatly alarmed, and thinking it a warning from God, immediately surrendered. This man became a very useful mem- ber of the Church, and before he died removed the last dollar of indebt- edness from it. In 1831 Lyme was included in the Hebron Circuit, and Reuben Ransom, Moseley Dwight and Charles Heywood were the ALFRED N. ROBBINS. CHARLES L. MORLEY. preachers. In 1832 Rev. Caleb Rogers preached here. In 1833 Rev- Mr. Niles. In 1834 there was preaching once in two weeks by one of the Circuit preachers, Rev. Hiram Walden, Frederick Tracy and Free- man Nutting being on the Circuit. In 1835 Hiram Walden and Walter Wilkey were the preachers. From this date meetings were continued mostly by Ichabod Kel- logg, a resident local preacher, until 1842, when Rev. Isaac Sherman was the preacher. This year there was a gracious revival, and many were added to the church. A house of worship seemed a necessity, and accordingly the work was commenced, and under the pastorate of Rev. A. B. Wheeler, in 1843, tne present edifice was completed and dedicated by Rev. Sanford Benton of New London. In 1873 a desirable lot was purchased, and a convenient and com- fortable house built thereon, for the use of the preacher. In 1893 it was enlarged and greatly improved. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 59 1843- 1844-45. 1846-47. 1848-49. 1850-51. 1852. i853- 1854. 1855-56. 1857- 1858. 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-64. 1865. 1866. A. B. Wheeler N. Torbush R. Albertson M. Leffinwell F. Blanchard Supplied Peter Mather H. Smith J. T. Benton J. W. Case G. D. Boynton Lozien Pierce F. Newell Supplied Jabez Peck Lewis C. Dunham PASTORS. 1867-69. 1870-71, 1872-74. I875-77- 1878-80. 1881. 1882. 1883-85. 1886-89. 1890. 1891-92. 1892. 1893-94. 1895-96. 1897. William Dixon H. Arnold D. G. Ashley William Dixon C. B. Sumner L. D. Bentley W. C. Newell D. G. Ashley William Turkington William Foster H. E. Parker William Turkington T. W. Douglass C. B. Bromley D. G. Ashlev PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stewards C. L. Morley, James Mitchell, Thomas Hoskins, John Swaney (Recording Steward for twenty-two years), Alfred N. Robbins, Latham S. W T atrous, John Rowland. Sunday School Superintendent, Nathaniel Sheffield; Assistant, L. S. Watrous; Secretary and Treasurer, Vienna E. Robbins; Assist- ant Secretary and Treasurer, Jennie Sheffield; Librarian, Lillie Shef- field; Assistant Librarian, Bertha Ashley; Organist, Bertha Ashley; Assistant Organist, Annie Petrie. Epworth League President, Latham S. Watrous; First Vice- President, Annie Petrie; Second Vice-President, Lillie L. Sheffield; Third Vice-President, N. L. Sheffield; Fourth Vice-President Harry Haynes; Secretary and Treasurer, Katie E. Watrous. M. E. CHURCH, MANCHESTER, CONN. In August, 1790, Rev. George Roberts, Jesse Lee's assistant, or- ganized the first Methodist Society within the limits of the town of Manchester, at the home of Thomas Spencer, on Spencer street, con- sisting of Thomas Spencer and wife, Mrs. Hurlbut, Mrs. Roberts, Mrs. Pitkin and Richard Keeney, three of whose granddaughters are de- voted members of the church to- day, one, Mrs. Delina Backus, be- ing an earnest class leader. In 1794 Bishop Asbury visited this vicinity and records finding a neat house of worship near Mr. Spencer's home. In 1821, while Ebenezer Blake and Daniel Dorchester were the preachers, a large revival occurred at Manchester Green, meetings being held in the brick school- house. This necessitated a more accessi- ble church, which was built at Manchester Centre, being 50 by 38 feet, with a tower, galleries on three sides and rude benches, and was used for about thirty years. The society being almost crushed to pay for it, Timothy Keeney, a young member, courageously raised the money, mortgaging his small house to do so. He said: "They can take all I have, my wife's furniture and all; but they can't take that church." In 1826 the first Sunday School was held at North Manchester, Mrs. Nancy Le- valley teaching about a dozen children in her house. Mr. Eli Pitkin succeeded this ef- fort some years later, holding a Sunday School in the schoolhouse, which stood fac- ing the present Post Office. The ministers frequently THE MANCHESTER PARSONAGE. THE MANCHESTER CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 61 preached in schoolhouses at South Manchester, North Manchester and at Buckland's Corners, where, in 1836, many were converted, among them Miss M. M. Loomis, long a useful church worker and officer- in the W. F. M. S. In 1837 Mr. Oliver P. Wilkes introduced violins and flutes into the church and drilled the first church choir. He remained long the useful choir leader. In 1847, while Rev. Benjamin C. Phelps was pastor, fifty-seven persons were received into the church. In 1849-50, while Rev. Merritt P. Alderman was pastor, a revival started at a Sacramental service, and sixty-one were converted. In 1851 business having increased at North and South Manches- ter, "it was thought best to divide the church at the Centre and go REV. E. P. PHREANER. MRS. E. P. PHREANER. South and North." This amicable division took place prior to the ses- sion of the Conference of 1851... As a result 168 members went South and the remaining 77 came to North Manchester. However, the 168 continued to worship at the Centre until 1854, when they built their church at South Manchester. A class meeting had been led by Darius Drake at North Manches- ter for some time. He and his wife were very pious people. Rev. George Brewster became pastor of the flock in North Man- chester in 1851. Soon the congregation and Sunday School outgrew the schoolhouse quarters, and he urged building the church upon the land donated by Keeney and Wood, Trustees having been previously elected and the foundation laid. The building committee were Tim- othy Keeney, James B. Wood, Hiram Moulton, William McNall, Ed- win B. Hibbard, Frank W. Cowles. 62 SOUVENIR HISTORY. It was completed in six months, because the people had a mind to work. The size was 72 by 42 feet, with a spire, having the first bell in North Manchester, the same building as at present. Within two years the membership increased to 157, the Sunday School to 175; and four successful classes were held, having 88 average attendance. A missionary interest and loyalty to Methodist usages, discipline and literature characterized the church from its earliest history. In 1853, when Rev. John B. Husted was pastor, a house and land were bought opposite the church for a parsonage. 1854-55, Rev. William Lives'ey's spiritual and forceful preaching LOREN DAVIS. E. A. L/YDALrL, S. S. Supt. and E. L. Pres. resulted in large congregations, and thirty new members, an addition of twenty feet to the church, a pipe organ and a clock in the tower. During Rev. Pardon T. Kenney's pastorate 1856-57, increased in- terest was taken in camp-meetings. About 1860 Timothy Keeney, James B. Wood and Edwin B. Hibbard were charter members of the Willimantic Camp-Meeting Association, and erected the first cottages upon the ground. Rev. Nathaniel Bemis was pastor in 1863-64, when thirty mem- bers withdrew to form the Vernon M. E. Church. Rev. James Mather, in 1865-66, when James B. Wood, in the noontide of his life, was taken away from his family and the church as Sunday School Superintendent, class leader, etc., greatly beloved by all, his noble wife taking up many of his responsibilities. She has taught the primary department in the Sunday School for over thirty years. SOUVENIR HISTORY. The singing and persuasive Rev. George D. Fuller, 1869-71, when thirty new members were received, Mrs. Maggie Van Cott assisting the pastor in extra meetings. In 1872-73 Rev. Zadoc S. Haynes was the genial pastor, who also contributed two useful sons to the Sunday School Superintend- ency and as choristers of the choir. Rev. Henry D. Robinson, from 1874 to 1876, at which time the quarter centennial service of the building of the church was held. It was an occasion for rejoicing, former ministers participating. The pastor read a history of the church, stating that in twenty-five years TIMOTHY KEENEY. JAMES B. WOOD. $35,000 had been spent in church improvements and benevolence, and that three hundred souls had professed conversion. The old-time choir, under Mr. O. P. Wilkes, and the new, under Carlos B. Haynes, added interest to the occasion. Rev. James H. Nutting following, 1877-78, witnessed a large for- eign element in the town and church, Temperance Reform and a revival, in which thirty-six joined the church. The spire of the church was swept off in a winter's storm, and a most useful official, Edwin B. Hibbard, was removed by death, leaving a devoted wife to take up much of his labor. Rev. Shadrach Leader, the silver-tongued preacher, serving 1879- 80, when the artistic tower and other church improvements were added. In 1885 Rev. William H. Tnrkington, the pastor, was assisted by Rev. I. T. Johnson, when twenty-two new members were added to the church. While Rev. Royal J. Kellogg was pastor, 1886-87, tlie Wesley 6 4 SOUVENIR HISTORY. League was formed; the commodious Willimantic Camp House was erected through their instrumentality. Rev. George H. Butler following in 1888-89, when a commodious and beautiful parsonage was built at a cost of $2,800. Rev. John McVay served in 1890-92, when radical improvements were made inside the church. A fine new pipe-organ was purchased, the entire cost being $4,000. The Wesley League became a strong and helpful chapter of the Epworth League, and a refreshing revival of religion occurred. Also Rev. John Sherman, a superannuated member of our Con- ference, came to Manchester, and has been a real helper to both pastor and people. While Rev. James Tregaskis was pastor, 1893-94, the Christian Crusaders labored with the church, and some members were added, and the church was generally revived. In December, 1893, Brother Timothy Keeney, after seventy-six years of most devoted Christian service, passed away at the age of 91 years. At the recent reunion and roll call the membership was 135, with 35 probationers, 29 having been taken into the church during the last two and a half years. A slow yet healthful growth is realized. In 1896 Rev. Nathan F. Colver went to live among the redeemed in Heaven, leaving Sister Colver still to toil with us. In 1897 Mr. I. S. Ackley, a devoted class leader and official, was laid to rest. This church, besides training up many loyal and devoted men and women, some who have gone forth to other places and to other churches, many also to the Heavenly Land, has also given four sons to the ministry, viz., Rev. Wilbur Loomis, to the Congregational Church; Rev. Francis Asbury Loomis, in 1854; Rev. Edward M. An- thony, in 1863; Rev. Joseph B. Ackley, in 1883, all to the New Eng- land Southern Conference; also Miss Olivia Olmstead, to be the wife of Rev. George Mansfield of the New England Conference, and Miss Lizzie L. Colver, to be the wife of Rev. John S. Porter, a missionary in Bohemia under the American Board. PASTORS. Down to 1851, same as South Manchester. 1853. John B- Husted 1862. John F. Sheffield 1854-55. William Livesey 1863-64. Nathaniel Bemis l8 5 6 -57- Pardon T. Kenney 1865-66. James Mather 1858-59. John Lovejoy 1867-68. J. Ellis Hawkins 1 860-6 1. John D. King 1869-71. George D. Fuller SOUVENIR HISTORY. 65 1872-73. Zadoc S. Haines 1885. Wm. H. Turkington 1874-76. Henry D. Robinson 1886-87. Royal J. Kellogg 1877-78. James H. Nutting 1888-89. George H. Butler 1879-80. Shadrach Leader 1890-92. John McVay 1 88 1. John Oldham 1893-94. James Tregaskis 1882-84. Henry H. Martin 1895. Edward P. Phreaner ORIGINAL MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH. The list of original members of the church at North Manchester, as nearly as, can be ascertained, is as follows : Nancy Annis, Delina Backus, Albert F. Cowles, Joseph Case, Nancy Case, Eliza Cook, Harriet Cowles, William Dart, Darius Drake, David Dye, Sarah A. Daggett, George Elliott, Marilla Buckland, Delina Brown, Philinda Chafee, Caroline Case, Lemira Cook, Caroline Crane, Wolcott Dart, Jerusha Dart, Harriet Drake, Laurana Dye, Sallie Evans, Hannah Elliott, Chloe Foster, Mary Forbes, Mary A. Hill, Edwin B. Hibbard, Walter Hibbard, Lucinda H. Hibbard, Timothy Keeney, Electa Keeney, Mary Keeney, Isabella C. Keeney, Lavinia Keeney, Hannah Loomis, Wilbur F. Loomis, Hulda Loveland, Nancy Levalley, Jeru- sha Perkins, Maria Roberts, Luman A. Squires, Lorenzo T. Salter, Ann E. Salter, Mary B. Strong, Betsey Forbes, Daniel Hill, Wilbur F. Hill, Elizabeth Hibbard, Eunice Jacobs, Soprona B. Keeney, Belinda Keeney, Emily Keeney, Sophia Keeney, Theodosia Keeney, Marietta M. Loomis, Ziba Loveland, Harriet Leach, Phebe A. Place, John Risley, Esther Russell, Eliza Squires, Susan Salter, Ethan E. Strong, William C. Strong, Lucy M. Strong, Mary Sanders, Mary A. Wood, Lucy Sanders, James B. Wood, Carile Weaver. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Henry Lydall, William Foulds, James Long, Carlos Foster, Thomas I. Shaw, Loren Davis, Edgar T. Hale, Walter E. Lydall, William E. Hibbard. Stewards Edgar T. Hale, Henry Lydall, Louis Keeney, Joseph Templeton, Josephine Gleason, Ellen E. Colver, Elizabeth E. Hibbard, Loren Davis, Walter E. Lydall, Manning Walker, William B. Covil, Marietta M. Loomis, Elizabeth T. Keeney. Sunday School Superintendent, Edwin A. Lydall; Assistant Su- perintendent, William B. Covil; Secretary, Whitman W. Bowers; Treasurer, Thomas I. Shaw; Librarian, Loren Davis; Assistant Libra- rian, Edith M. Foulds. Epworth League President, Edwin A. Lydall; First Vice-Presi- dent, Thomas I. Shaw; Second Vice-President, Delina Backus; Third Vice-President, Grace E. Rowley; Fourth Vice-President, Edith Hall- Secretary, Mary L. Covil; Treasurer, Fannie E. Foulds M. E. CHURCH, MAPLEVILLE, R. I. The Methodist Episcopal church at Mapleville, R. I., was organ- ized June 8, 1872, by Rev. M. J. Talbot, and Rev. Joseph Marsh was appointed its pastor. Some years previous to this time there had been preaching by one and another. At times there was much interest and much good done, but no regular organization was effected until June 8th, 1872, as stated above. Three members were received and one on probation. Being destitute of a church build- ing, James Legg, Esq., kindly offered to furnish a pleasant hall, known as "Legg's Hall." This was warmed and lighted free of expense at first. But it was earnestly de- sired to build a chapel which should be dedicated forever and entirely to the service of God, and the following persons were elected a committee to procure the building of such a chapel, by the Rev. Joseph Marsh: James Legg, Sen., John S. THE MAPLEVILLE PARSONAGE. REV. E. F. SMITH. MRS. E. F. SMITH. Ross, Joshua Perkins and John H. Legg. After a number of meet- ings of this committee the idea of building a chapel seems to have SOUVENIR HISTORY. been given up. The church was not built. Rev. Joseph Marsh left the charge at the end of three years, universally beloved and regretted, but his work of love and the influence of his holy life remain and con- tinue to bear fruit. In April, 1875, Rev. G. W. Hunt was appointed to this charge. WILLIAM LEGG. President Board of Trustees. MRS. JAMES LEGG, Sr. was During this pastorate a goodly number of persons were converted and added to the church, and the charge built up and strengthened. During this year the pastor took unto himself a wife. Rev. Francis D. Sargent was appointed to Mapleville in April, 1876 and 1877. At the Conference of 1878 Rev. Samuel Fox appointed to this charge, and reap- pointed in 1879 and 1880. During the three years of this pastorate there was progress, improvement and develop- ment. In April, 1881, Rev. S. Leader was appointed here by Bishop Peck, and he continued to be its pastor for two years, when he was succeeded by the Rev. Virgil W. Mattoon, who was pastor of this society from April, 1883, to April, 1885. During the months of February and March, 1884, a good revival interest was enjoyed, and many were at the altar for prayers, and gave good evidence of conversion. Rev. F. C. Newell was the next pastor. He was appointed in April, 1885, and remained with the society for Migg EppiE three years. Epworth League President. 68 SOUVENIR HISTORY. The next pastor was Rev. F. J. Follansbee, who was appointed April, 1888, and the year following; Rev. J. Biram was his successor in April, 1891 and 1892, and continued its pastor for two years, when GEORGE H. PEARCE. Recording Steward. MRS. MART E. PEARCE. Sunday School Superintendent. he was succeeded by Rev. Martin T. Braley, April, 1893-94. During the pastorate of Rev. Mr. Braley a very pleasant and convenient par- sonage was built at Mapleville, the land being donated by Mrs. James Legg., Sr., which greatly adds to the comfort of the pastor and his family residing there. The society has done nobly in striving to pay off the indebtedness, so that there is now only about four hundred dollars of debt upon it. With a season of business prosperity, this will soon be raised and a very pleasant home for the pastor will be secured. In April, 1895, Rev. Elijah F. Smith became pastor of the church, and during his pastorate over three hundred dollars have been paid on the indebtedness. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Mrs. Betsey Legg, Charles D. W. Cooper, James Legg, George H. Pearce, William Legg, Walter Stott, Mary E. Legg. Stewards William Legg, James Legg, George H. Pearce, Mary E. Pearce, Lydia Legg, Alice B. Legg. M. E. CHURCH, GLENDALE, R. I. In an old record book this entry is made: "M. E. Church, Glen- dale, R. I., organized into a class August 27, 1858; connected to Millville Station, by W. V. Morrison, preacher in charge Millville; T. B. Taylor, class leader; C. H. Titus, Presiding Elder, Providence district. Made a separate station, April, 1860; T. B. Taylor appointed to supply the charge." Received those standing on trial May 8, 1859, C. A. Merrill, Millville Station, presiding officer. Names of those received into full connection: Thomas B. Taylor, Nancy A. Taylor, Hannah Dens, William Dens, Nathaniel Water- house, Jane Waterhouse, Thos. Boss, Duty Thompson, Harriet Bailey, Maranda E. Taylor, Jeanette Esten, John L. Boss, Plummer Vallet, Stephen Den- nier, Martha Dennier, Betsey Hart, William Carron. Only one of these remain, William Car- ron. Many sacred memories cluster round these names. The first services of the church were held in a cellar kitchen. Souls were saved there in those early years. The first church was built during the pastorate of Rev. T. B. Taylor, the land being given by Mr. Denison Juman. Not enough money being raised to pay for the church, it became involved, nor did the society really own the property till July, 1887, when the heirs of Mrs. Phoebe Copeland gave a warranty deed of the church and lot to the society. The second pastor was the Rev. E. N. Maynard. Somehow he managed to evade the three years' rule which was then the law of the church, for he preached to the society for thirteen years. He is still held in high esteem by those whom he faithfully served so long. In 1879 the society secured a Conference minister, Rev. George W. Hunt, who remained one year, laboring faithfully. Francis D. Sargent next served this church two years, who was followed by Rev. Samuel L. Fox. In 1880-81 the church was supplied by Rev. Mr. Fitz of the Congregational Church at Slatersville. Rev. Shadrach Leader came next, and was followed by Rev. THE GLENDALE CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. Virgil W. Mattoon, both of whom remained two years. In 1885 Rev. F. C. Newell came, and during his pastorate, in 1887, the new church building project was begun, and the society duly incorporated by the Legislature. Rev. F. J. Follansbee was the next pastor, 1889-90. Several were added to the church, and the society undertook to repair the church, and when the improvements were completed, the people had a beautiful new audience room, 28 feet by 38, connected by folding partitions with the old building, which was used as a vestry. A tower, 60 feet high, was built, and a bell put in. Altogether it was a very comfortable and convenient church for the needs of the village. The changes cost over $3,000. It was dedicated in May, 1890, free WILLIAM ORRELL, President Board Trustees. MRS. WILLIAM ORRELL, of debt, and after all bills were paid there remained a surplus of fifty dollars in the treasury. It was a splendid accomplishment for so small a village. Not long did the society enjoy their beautiful church, for on the morning of October 24, 1890, it was burned to the ground; a total loss. It was a heavy blow to the society, and many tears were shed, but the people were not disheartened; and as the church was insured for $3,000, steps were at once taken to rebuild. William Orrell, Henry L. Copeland and James Biram were elected building, committee. After some time spent in looking at plans, they adopted the plans of the present edifice. The old records were placed in a box in the floor beneath the communion table when the church was remodeled, during the pastor- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 7! ate of Rev. F. J. Follansbee. They were placed there by order of the trustees. And when the church was burned in the year 1891, October 24, the old records were consumed in the fire. This sketch would scarcely be complete without special mention of Hon. William Orrell and his wife, Mary B. Orrell. Mr. Orrell is chairman of the Board of Trustees. He has been a member of the State Senate. He has been very active in all the varied interests of the church. In 1893 he presented the new church with a beautiful altar rail and a bell. He is proprietor of the Glendale Woolen Mills. Mrs. Orrell is the Recording Steward, and president of the Ladies' Aid Society. She was one of the most active in 1893 in soliciting funds for the new church, even calling upon the governor and many of the senators and representatives. The late Hon. Mowry A. Lapham donated the magnificent oak pulpit set. Francis H. Carpenter, Ellen M. Juman and Addie M. Bartlett are gratefully remembered for three beautiful stained glass windows of the church. PASTORS. 1860-61. Thomas B. Taylor 1883-84. Virgil W. Mattoon 1862-74. Elmer N. Maynard 1885-87. Frederick C. Newell 1875. George W. Hunt 1888-90. F. J. Follansbee 1876-77. Francis D. Sargent 1890-92. James Biram 1878-79. Samuel C. Fox 1893-94. Martin T. Braley 1880. ' Mr. Fittz (Cong.) 1895. Elijah F. Smith 1881-82. Shadrach Leader PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees William Orrell, William B. Esten, Fred Esten, Alfred Williamson, Lottie Esten, Ruth W. Inman. Stewards William B. Esten, Mary E. Orrell (R. S), Mary E. Brooks, Pauline F. Brooks, Ruth W. Inman, Lottie Esten, Phoebe Clarkson, Alfred Williamson and Lillian Williamson. Sunday School Superintendent, Rev. E. F. Smith; Assistant Superintendent, Mrs. Mary E. Brooks; Secretary and Treasurer, Al- fred Williamson; Librarian, Fannie Brooks. Teachers Mrs. 'Mary Brooks, Miss Read, Miss L. Williamson, William B. Esten, Henry Cook. M. E. CHURCH, MASHAPAUG, CONN. This is a small village in the northern portion of the town of Union, Conn. There was, prior to 1850, about the first of the present century, a Methodist Church, situated in the southern portion of the town. This was not a Methodist Episcopal church. The organiza- tion of the present society dates back to 1867, as the result of meetings held in the Circuit Rid- ers, and two local preachers, who lived in adjoining towns. The services were held in the district schoolhouse until 1874, at which time the present structure was built. The society has had a varied experience, at times well-nigh discouraged, at other times greatly encouraged. For two years this little church was without a resident pastor, but was supplied part of the time by a Mr. Nichols of Stafford Springs, THE MASHAPAUG CHURCH. and also by Mr. O. Bissel, a Con- gregational minister of Holland, Mass. The Rev. Seth B. Chase deserves the honor of building the church structure, and several of the pastors deserve mention of valiant work done. Particularly is this true of Revs. Betts. Cross. Denman, Taylor and Richardson. Reference to the work of the laymen in connection with this enterprise would constitute due notice of such men as Proctor Smith, George A. Webster, Henry M. Vinton, and many others who have gone to reap their rewards. The future of the church seems un- certain, as it is with many of our churches in the little towns and vil- lages that are so isolated from manu- facturing and railroad centres. But it has done a good work in the past. Among its members have been counted many influential men of the town, and while for want of E . E- CORBIN. opportunity it may not be able s . s. supt. and E. L. Pres. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 73 to do for future generations what it has done for the past, it doubtless will stand as a beacon light for some souls in the future. REV. F. B. ADAMS. MRS. F. B. ADAMS. 1867-70. I870-7I. 1872. 1873-74. 1875-77. 1878-79. 1880. Daniel Pratt John Carpenter S. V. B. Cross George W. Hunt Seth B. Chase William A. Taylor S. V. B. Cross T. W. Douglass PASTORS. 1881-83. 1884. 1885-86. 1887. 1890-91. 1894. 1895-96. 1897. Jacob P.etts H. S. Smith John Pcarce T. C. Denman C. A. Purely J. H. Richardson O. G. Terry F. B. Adams PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees William Chamberlain, Mrs. Emily Vinton, Mrs. Lyman Moore, Robert Webster, Byron Davis, Esq. Stewards Mrs. Byron Davis, Mrs. Emily Vinton, Mrs. Lyman Moore, Walcott Barber (D. S.), Mrs. Emily Barber (R. S.), William Pickles, E. E. Corbin, Robert Webster. Sunday School Superintendent, G. W. Barber; Assistant Super- intendent, E. E. Corbin. Teachers Mrs. Emma Moore, Mrs. Helen Winch, Mrs. Eliza Davis, Mrs. Emily Barber, Mrs. Julia Adams, Mr. R. E. Webster. M. E. CHURCH, WILLINGTON, CONN. As early as 1832 the Rev. Ralph W. Allen of East Willington, Conn., and a member of the New England Conference, with N. E. Rogers and Charles Hayward as colleagues, traveled over what was then known as the Tolland Circuit, which included "Square Pond" and Willington. In 1833 the Rev. William Walcott of Goshen, Mass., acted as supply under the Presiding Eldership of the Rev. Orange Scott. Ec- centric in manner, but powerful in God, he was blessed with a rich revival, in which he was assisted by Rev. Freeman Nutting. In 1834 the Rev. Lozien Pierce of Peru, Mass., came to the Circuit, which included at that time, Tolland, Square Pond, Stafford THE WILLINGTON CHURCH. and Willington, under the charge of Stephen Gushing, who settled at Tolland. Stafford was supplied by Ezra Withey; Willington and Square Pond by Mr. Pierce. The preaching at that time was in what is known as the Potter District Schoolhouse, also in the schoolhouse of the Jason Bugbee District, as well as many services held in the schoolhouse on Village Hill. He traveled over 1,000 miles, preached 234 sermons, receiving in return his board and $117, and had the blessed satisfaction of seeing over one thousand souls converted, thirty or forty of which were at Willington. During this year Mr. Benjamin Sillibridge gave the land on which the church now stands. Through his efforts a subscription paper was started, and with the aid of many kind helpers he was enabled to have the deed and plans in readiness by the close of the year. The church was not built, however, until later. In J 837, during the pastorate of Rev. John Caldwell, the present SOUVENIR HISTORY. 75 church building was erected. From 1837 to 1842 Revs. Ira Bidwell, Elisha Frink and Abram Holway supplied the pulpit. In 1841 Rev. L. W. Blood, then stationed at Stafford Springs, and Rev. William Dixon occasionally preached. In 1842 the church was without a pastor, and the Rev. James F. Brooks, with others, kept the church alive with prayer and faith, until a revival sprang up which resulted in the conversion of many. In 1843 the charge was supplied by Rev. Otis Perrin, and in 1844 by Rev. Moses Stoddard. During this period the church suffered much in consequence of the great Millerite movement. During the pastorate of Rev. Charles Morse in 1845-46, the church was greatly quickened, and many were converted. In 1867, M. P. FENTON, Sunday School Superintendent. LJLLA I. FENTON, Epworth League President. during the pastorate of Otis Perrin, a revival occurred in which there were about twenty-five conversions. In 1870, while James O. Dodge was pastor, there were many conversions. Henry Meacham (1871- 73)> was the only pastor to stay the full time limit. At the close of his pastorate there were forty-one full members and thirty-five proba- tioners, and sixty-six members in the Sunday School. In 1877 R CV - H. H. Arnold, then stationed at Wesley Chapel, was pastor, preaching also for the Advent people. In 1878 Rev. A. J. Church, D. D., then at Stafford Springs, preached once a month in this church, Rev. Erastus Benton preaching the other Sabbaths. In 1880 and 1881 Rev. James Tregaskis was pastor. Many accessions to the church blessed his labors. In 1889 Rev. George H. Rogers, a student at Wesleyan Univer- SOUVENIR HISTORY. sity, supplied the pulpit during the summer, doing splendid work. In October Rev. George W. Elmer began and supplied the rest of the year. In 1890 Rev. F. C. Newell enjoyed a blessed year's work. From 1891 to 1893 Rev. H. D. Adams was pastor. He, too, enjoyed a blessed revival. He was assisted by Lonzo Bruce, of the Salvation Army; 1894-95 Herbert Snow, as pastor, labored faithfully and earnestly here. During the present pastorate the Church has steadily gained in in- fluence and power, with some encouraging results. 1832. 1833- 1834. 1837-42. 1843- 1844. 1845-46. 1847-48. 1849-50. 1851-52. 1853- 1854. 1855- 1856. 1857-60. 1 860-6 1. 1862. 1863. PASTORS. Ralph W. Allen, 1864. N. E. Rogers 1865. Charles Hay ward 1866. William Wolcott 1867-68. Lozien Pierce 1869. John Caldwell 1870. Ira Bidwell 1871-73. Elisha Frink 1874. Abram Holway 1875. Otis Perrin . 1876. Moses Stoddard 1877. Charles Morse i8/8-7Q. Otis Perrin 1 880-81. Horace Moulton 1882-83. William Dixon 1883. Manuel Kenney 1884-85. James F. Brooks Manuel Kenney 1886-89. Jabez Pack 1889. James F. Brooks James Parker 1890. George D. Boynton 1891-93. James F. Brooks 1894-95. A. G. Turner 1896. George D. Boynton 1897. James F. Brooks Horace Moulton Josiah T. Benton Otis Perrin James Parker James O. Dodge Henry Meacham Otis Perrin Leonard Goodell Nelson Goodrich H. H. Arnold Erastus Benton James Tregaskis E. M. Anthony J. J. Cooper (latter part). Samuel McKeown Leonard Goodell W. C. Newell George H. Rogers George W. Elmer F. C. Newell H. D. Adams Herbert Snow O. G. Terry F. B. Adams PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Mark Fenton, Francis Ballou, Herbert Royce, Edward Brooks. Stewards Mrs. Louise Allen, Mrs. Susan Wood, Mrs. James Cal- lender, Mrs. Roxana Wilson, Mrs. Marcia Fenton, Miss Lilla I. Fen- ton, Mark Fenton, Frank Fenton, Benjamin Wilson, Valmore Pulsifer, Ernest Pulsifer. Sunday School Superintendent, M. P. Fenton, Assistant Super- intendent, Jennie E. Brooks; Secretary and Treasurer, Mrs. Callander; Librarian, Delia J. Eno. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 77 Teachers E. W. Brooks, Mrs. E. W. Brooks, Mr. Samuel Bart- lett, Mrs. M. P. Fenton, Mr. Weeks, Lilla I. Fenton. Epworth League President, Lilla I. Fenton; First Vice Presi- dent, Ida A. Wilson, Second Vice President, Ernest Pulsifer; Third Vice President, Frank N. Fenton ; Fourth Vice President, Wallace H. Wilson. M. E. CHURCH, MILLVILLE, MASS. By Miss J. Ardelle Mann. Until the Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in this place a part of its original members were associated with the Methodist Re- formed Church, worshiping in their meeting-house, built in 1833. Finding it impossible to find a suitable minister, either in the Re- formed or Wesleyan Methodist Church, application was made through Rev. Charles H. Titus, then stationed at Woonsocket, R. I., to Rev. Thomas Ely, Presiding Elder, for a preacher. At the Annual Con- ference, held at Provinctown, Mass., April, 1849, R CV - Daniel Fillmore was appointed to Millville. After much deliberation and consultation a num- ber of the members of the Reformed Methodist Church, March 3, 1850, presented their letters to Rev. Mr. Fillmore to become members of the JOHN C. SCOTT (Deceased). Methodist Episcopal Church. These, with fourteen members of the Slatersville (R. I.) class, belonging to the society at Woonsocket, R. I. were organized as the Millville Methodist Episcopal Church. After the Annual Conference, Rev. Daniel Fillmore returned to labor with a church of thirty-four members. The first Quarterly Conference was held on the 2pth of October, Rev. Thomas Ely presiding. In the second year of her history some of the members of the Re- formed Church objected to the application of pew rents toward the sup- port of the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal Church. This led to the withdrawal of the members of the latter society, who thereupon se- cured the unoccupied meeting-house of the "Orthodox" Church as a place of worship. The last Sabbath of the Conference year was the 78 SOUVENIR HISTORY. first in their new home. The church steadily increased until in 1855 it could report a mem- bership of 104, with twelve probationers. On the 23d of February, 1861, Southwick Harkness, Sullivan Harkness, John C. Scott, George Hanny and George Lewis were ap- pointed trustees, and on the 6th of March following this Board was or- ganized as a corporation, under the General Statutes of the Common- wealth. During the same year, a parsonage was purchased for the sum of $850, a balance of $178 on the above remaining unpaid. At a meeting of the Trustees held July 15, 1863, Rev. Lewis B. Bates was chosen a committee to solicit subscriptions for the purchase of the meeting-house occupied by the church. August 6, $744 was re- ported subscribed, and the prudential committee was authorized to pur- chase the meeting-house. At a meeting of the Trustees, held August 3ist, the committee re- ported $933 subscribed, and he, with John C. Scott, was authorized to make the necessary transfer of papers for the purchase of the building. A balance on the cost of the church property remaining unpaid, and repairs and alterations being made from time to time, the church finally found itself burdened with a $1,060 debt. It was deemed best to sell the parsonage, and this was done in 1872, for $1,000. In 1894, a sJiort time before his death, George Hanny gave the church a piece of land on which to build a new parsonage. The church has enjoyed many years of prosperity, but business depression in late years has seri- ously crippled the church. For several years a flourishing class was sustained at Slatersville, R. I. Among the many faithful laymen of the church the name of John C. Scott is tenderly cherished, who, for twenty-five years, was Super- intendent of the Sunday School, and a leading spirit in all the interests of the church. PASTORS. 1849-50. Daniel Fillmore 1872-74. 1851. Nelson Goodrich 1875. 1852. John E. Gifford 1876. l8 53-54. Charles Nason 1877-78. l8 55- John A. M. Chapman. 1879. 1856. Asa U. Swinerton 1 880-81. 1 857-58. William V. Morrison 1882-84. 1859-60. Charles A. Merrill 1885. 1861-62. George M. Hamlin 1886-88. 1863-65. Lewis B. Bates 1889. 1866. ^ William Kellen 1890. 1867-68. Henry W. Conant 1891. 1869. Frederick C. Newell 1892-93. 1870. Heflin S. Smith 1894-95. 1871. Samuel E. Evans 1896. Walter J. Yates Edwin G. Babcock W'illiam H. Turkington R. D. Dyson John H. Sherman J. H. Keppel Winfield C. Kelt John Willett Edward P. Phreaner James Mather Arthur N. Searles P. H. Robinson S. V. B. Cross Merrick Ransom Henry H. Martin SOUVENIR HISTORY. 79 PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Moses Esten, Frank Beasley, Thomas J. Collins, Will- iam Robertson, Josiah B. Davis. Stewards Moses Esten, Frank Beasley, Thomas J. Collins, Will- iam Robertson, James Grindrod, Mrs. Etta Southwick, Mrs. Isabel Beasley, Mrs. Laura Gould, Miss J. Ardelle Mann, Etta M. Hood, Vic- toria Crossmon, Gertrude L. Southwick, Jennie L. Davis. Sunday School Superintendent, Rev. H. H. Martin ; Assistant Su- perintendent, Thomas J. Collins; Second Assistant Superintendent, Jennie L. Davis; Secretary, Ernest Hood; Treasurer, J. Ardelle Mann; Organist, Gertrude L. Southwick; Librarian, William Collins. Teachers Mrs. H. H. Martin, Thomas J. Collins, J. Ardelle Mann, Gertrude L. Southwick, Etta M. Hood. Epworth League Ernest Hood, President; Gertrude L. South- wick, First Vice-President; J. Ardelle Mann, Second Vice-President; William Robertson, Third Vice-President; Etta M. Hood, Fourth Vice-President; Victoria H. Crossmon, Secretary; Vinton H. Hood, Treasurer. M. E. CHURCH, MOODUS, CONN. Before 1800 Methodist preachers had passed through East Had- dam from Hartford and Middletown, on their way to New London. As early as 1792 preaching places had been established in each of the THE MOODUS CHURCH. THE MOODUS PARSONAGE. above places, from which the early Methodist preachers had pushed into the surrounding country towns, including Hebron, Chatham and Salem. In 1813, during the close of the war with Great Britain, the New England Annual Conference, whose territory then included this section, 8o SOUVENIR HISTORY. was held at Salem. In 1825, and again in 1830, the eccentric Lorenzo Dow preached at East Haddam Landing, on the Connecticut River, four miles from Moodus. Classes were soon formed at Millington in the eastern part of the town, and at Leesville in the western part. In the Spring of 1834 a lot was bought, where the church now stands, of Abner Brainerd. It was purchased by Danforth Burgess, a Methodist, who gave his note for $50 to pay for the land. During the following autumn a frame was erected for the church, which remained all Winter. The following year it was finished, and the church was dedicated the last of Novem- ber, 1835. The dedication sermon was preached by Rev. Schuyler REV. G. W. ELMER. MRS. G. W. ELMER. Seager of Middletown. The original cash cost of the church was $1,400. Only $350 was then paid, the balance remaining on interest, which, after a heroic struggle, was at last paid. The committee on church building were Lyman Hurd, Danforth Burgess, Erastus Down- ing, Timothy F. Andrews and Cicero Wheeler. From 1835 to 1844 Moodus continued to be supplied on the circuit plan, being connected with Chesterfield, Salem, etc. In 1844 an d 1845 it stood for the first time as a separate station, with Rev. William Simmons as pastor. The church was enlarged in 1850, during the pastorate of George Brewster. Emory Johnson, who died in 1896, was for many years a faithful worker on all lines of church work, and a strong financial supporter, and is greatly missed. Judge Albert E. Purple has also done equally as much, and still lives to help the church with his valuable counsel and liberal support. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 81 The parsonage is an attractive and commodious home for any preacher, and was bought of James Emmons in 1866 for $1,200. The barn was built during the pastorate of Rev. W. C. Newell in 1895. W. W. BECKWITH, Sunday School Superintendent. CARLOS E. CHAFFEE, Recording Steward. Moodus is one of the prettiest inland villages of Connecticut, and one of the pleasantest country appointments on the district. The fol- lowing pastors have served this church: PASTORS. 1846. Benjamin L. Sayer 1867-68. 1847-48. Henry Torbush 1849. Moses Chase 1869. 1850. George W. Brewster 1870. 1851. Roger Albiston 1871. 1852-53. Warren Emerson 1872-73. 1854. ^ John F. Sheffield 1874-76. 1855. William Cone 1877. 1 856-57. Nelson Goodrich 1878-79. 1858-59. Henry W. Conant 1880-81. 1860. George Burnham 1882. 1861. L. D. Bentley 1883-84. 1862-63. C. M. Alvord . 1885-86. 1864. F- A. Brown 1887-91. 1865-66. George W. Wooding 1892-96. 1897. Joel B. Bishop (died suddenly) William Turkington J. M. Worcester Hefflin S. Smith Anthony Palmer James H. Nutting A. W. Paige E. M. Anthony E. F. Smith R. D. Dyson F. C. Newell George W. Wright Jacob Betts Wilbur C. Newell George W. Elmer PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Elisha S. Brown, N. B. Strickland, C. E. Chaffee, W. W. Beckwith, D. J. Treat, A. E. Purple (Treasurer), E. D. Newbury (Secretary), Ashley C. Hefflon ; Sidney L. Chapman. 82 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Stewards Carlos E. Chaffee (R. S.), Mrs. Carlos E. Chaffee, Elisha S. Brown, Edward D. Xewbury (D. S.), Mrs. Edward D. New- bury, Captain X. B. Strickland, Airs. N. B. Strickland, Ashley C. Hefflon, Clark S. Gates. Sunday School Superintendent, W. W. Beckwith; Assistant Su- perintendent, D. J. Treat; Secretary and Treasurer, S. L. Chapman; Librarian, John Treat; Organist, Miss Carrie Bowers. Home Department Superintendent, C. E. Chaffee; Secretary and Treasurer S. S. Miss. Soc., Miss Emily E. Elmer. Teachers Mrs. W. W. Beckwith, Carlos E. Chaffee, Mrs. Sidney Chapman, Mrs. Edward D. Newbury, Mrs. Clara Brainerd. Epu'orth League President, Rev. George W. Elmer; First Vice- President, Mrs. E. D. Newbury; Second Vice-President, Mrs. W. W. Beckwith; Third Vice-President, Dayton J. Treat; Fourth Vice-Presi- dent, Walter W. Beckwith; Secretary, Edward D. Newbury; Treas- urer, Mrs. W. W. Beckwith. M. E. CHURCH, MOOSUP, CO XX. Before the year 1800 the Circuit Riders of Methodism paid monthly visits to this and adjoining towns. In 1825-6 Plainfield was an appointment on the Norwich Circuit, and a class of eight members was formed with Ed- ward Dunlap as leader. Rev. B. Hazleton and O. Robbins were the circuit preachers. The first Quarterly Conference was held January, 1827. It remained a circuit appointment until 1835. The famous Lorenzo Dow, whose cousin, Mary Dow Medbury, is still a member of this church, preached here on one occasion. Finding about 400 persons crowded into the old meeting- THE MOOSUP CHURCH. house ' which stood PP sit e the Moosup Cemetery, and a still larger number outside, unable to gain admission, Mr. Dow took his congregation to the woods, just beyond the cemetery, where he preached one of his characteristic sermons. SOUl' EN IR HISTORY. In 1841-3, tinder the pastorate of Rev. A. B. Wheeler, a sweeping revival occurred. About the same time sixty-five members were trans- ferred, to form the Danielson M. E. Church, leaving 179 members. The church building, which up to this time had been known as the Union Meeting-House, was purchased by the Methodist people, re- paired and refitted for worship. The Sunday School, organized about this time, has been an important part of the church, contributing not a little to its spiritual success. The following persons have filled accept- ably the important position of Superintendent: Warren Shepard, Jared Young, James M. Wilcox, Thomas W. Brown, Thomas E. Main and Miss Lilla E. Millelt. The roll of membership has contained the names of many earnest whole-souled Christians, men and women of deep piety, strong faith and self-sacrific- ing lives. Among them Sam- uel Millet and his devoted wife, who are called the father and mother of the Methodist Church in Moosup. Mr. Mil- lett was for many years a de- voted class leader, as was also Mr. Jeremiah! Young. Other prominent and useful mem- bers were Olney Randall, Davenport Simmons, Rufus Rev. Phineas Crandall, who THE MOOSUP PARSONAGE. Wilson and Thomas W. Brown, served the church for two years as pastor, and then retiring from the ministry, continued to live here, has left a monument to himself and wife in the sweet-toned bell which rings out from the present edifice its call to worship. The church in which the people now worship is in the very centre of the village, and pleasantly situated. It was built in 1870 by the arduous labors of Rev. Lewis E. Dunham, and marked a new era in the prosperity of the society. In 1882, during the pastorate of E. J. Ayres, the building was raised, and a vestry provided in the basement. The interior of the church has recently (1896) been thoroughly repaired, a steel ceiling and chancel introduced, making it a most attractive and in- viting place of worship. The parsonage, one of the most convenient and commodious, stands on the lot adjoining the church. It was built during the pastorate of the Rev. W. W. Ellis of sainted memory. Simpson Chapter, No. 4,525, Epworth League, was organized in and has proved a blessing to the church. All demrtments are SOUVENIR HISTORY. organized and doing good work under the leadership of earnest, conse- crated Christian officers. Miss Bertha L. Sprague, the president, is a REV. F. C. BAKER. MRS. F. C. BAKER. graduate of Wilbraham Academy. She is also Recording Steward of the church, an earnest Christian, and abundant in labors. The League numbers sixty-six members. Bereau Chapter, No. 5058, Junior League, was organized in 1896, and is doing good work under the superintendency of Miss Bertha A. Matthews. No sketch of the Moosup Church would be complete that failed to MISS LILLA E. MILLETT, Sunday School Superintendent. MISS BERTHA L. SPRAGUE, Epworth League President. mention its "chorus choir." For fully twenty-five years Mrs. M. D. Lewis, an accomplished musician and teacher, has had charge of the SOUVENIR HISTORY. music, filling with great acceptability and very marked success the dif- ficult position of organist and chorister. Under her efficient manage- ment, ably supported by a chorus of some twenty voices, the singing has reached and maintained a high standard of proficiency. Many a large city church might envy this church its excellent choir. PASTORS. 1832-33. ' Benjamin Paine 1834. Erastus Benton 1835. Ziba Loveland 1836. J. Ireson 1837. N. Culon 1838-40. Hezekiah Thatcher 1841-43. A. B. Wheeler 1844. Daniel Dorchester THOMAS E. MAINS. 1845. 1846. 1847-48. 1849. 1850-51. 1852. 1853-54. 1855. 1856-57. 1858-59. 1860. 1861-62. 1863. 1864. 1865-66. 1867-69. 1870-71. 1872-74. 1875-78. 1879-80. 1881-82. 1883-84. 1885-86. 1887-89. 1890-91. 1892-94. 1895-97. O. K. Osborn C. C. Barnes J. Mather G. W. Brewster Warren Emerson J. F. Sheffield W. Turkington Peter S. Mather G. W. Rogers Robert Parsons J. M. Worcester B. M. Walker S. S. Cummings S. A. Winsor P. Crandall George DeB. Stoddard L. E. Dunham E. M. Anthony W. W. Ellis G. W. Hunt E. J. Ayres R. D. Dyson F. A. Crafts John McVay George H. Butler E. P. Phreaner F. C. Baker PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees T. E. Mains, H. L. Wilson, J. L. Young, J. M. Wilcox, Thomas Matthews, Henry Pepler, Charles Bragg, C. F. Burgess, C. D. Salisbury. Stewards H. L. Wilson, Joseph Dawson, J. M. Wilcox, Henry Pepler, W. H. Brown, G. W. Gilkerson, Mrs. T. E. Mains, Mrs. Rose Whitehead, Mrs. H. Pepler, Miss L. E. Millett, Miss Bertha L. Sprague, Miss A. M. Brown, Mrs. M. D. Lewis. Class Leaders Calvin Arnold, Thomas Matthews. Sunday School Superintendent, Miss L. E. Millett; Assistant, Thomas E. Mains; Secretary and Treasurer, J. O. Mains; Librarian, E. Whitehead. 86 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Teachers "The pastor, H. L. Wilson, Mrs. T. W. Brown, Calvin Arnold, Miss B. L. Sprague, Mrs. Rose Whitehead, Miss Annie M. Brown, Mrs. F. C. Baker, Miss L. E. Millett, Miss Bertha A. Matthews, Mrs. William Eyers. Epworth League (Simpson Chapter, No. 4,525) President, Bertha L. Sprague; First Vice-President, Bertha A. Matthews; Second Vice- President, Mrs. G. W. Gilkerson; Third Vice-President, Annie M. Brown; Fourth Vice-President, Lilla E. Millett; Secretary, George W. Gilkerson; Treasurer, Priscilla Matthews. M. E. CHURCH, MYSTIC, CONN. The first Methodist church building in the village, now known as Mystic, was built in 1841. Rev. Benjamin C. Phelps, at that time pastor at Old Mystic, three miles away, was mainly instrumental in forming the new society at Mys- tic Bridge. Six months previous to the dedication of the new church a nucleus for it had been formed in a "class" of six mem- bers, under Rev. Heman Perry of "Franklin Circuit." A great re- vival in the community, under Elder Swan and Pastor Phelps, made possible in a short time a strong Methodist Society. The Baptists and Methodist evangel- ists immersed their converts har- moniously in the river together. In 1842 the first located pastor was settled at Mystic Bridge, Rev. W. S. Simmons, who worthily followed up his prede- cessor's work. Gradual growth continued to mark the course o Methodism thus transplanted from the "Head of the River." Many good men labored. Three of those workers of a gen- eration ago are especially remembered by persons yet living, viz., Rev. James D. Butler, the pastor of love and faithfulness; Rev. Frederick Upham, solid as a rock, good as gold and revered by all, and Rev. THE MYSTIC CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. Varnum A. Cooper. When Mr. Cooper came the village was in its highest state of prosperity, there being seven shipyards in operation. So popular was the pastor that the old church (by no means small) REV. L. B. CODDING. MRS. L. B. CODDING. was uncomfortably crowded. A new building was started, still larger and more modern in architecture. By the expiration of the time limit Mr. Cooper was removed, and the dedication of the second Methodist REV. A. A. KIDDER, Ex-Sunday School Superintendent. JAMES McKENDRICK. Epworth I^eag-ue President. church building in Mystic Bridge fell to the lot of Rev. William H. Stetson. The new church cost about $34,000. At dedication a debt of $15,000 was assumed by the Trustees. This indebtedness, after SOUVENIR HISTORY. hindering the prosperity of the society severely, was finally cancelled in 1888, during W. P. Buck's pastorate, Mr. Charles H. Mallory gen- erously taking up the last notes that were due. Immediately after the new enterprise was completed the prostration of Mystic ship-building MR. THOMAS RYLEY, S. S. Supt. MRS. THOMAS RYLEY, Primary S. S. Supt. interests began. Our people moved away from lack of employment. In 1879 low tide was reached. In that year Rev. George C. King, early sainted, began his ministry in Mystic, and a new era also began in the prosperity of the people, for whom he labored and by whom he was truly beloved. Rev. A. G. Coultas and Rev. W. P. Buck contin- ued with enterprising and successful pastorates. When W. P. Buck was pastor, the Presiding Elder, Rev. Eben Tirrell organized a Methodist church at Noank, which has since been under the care of the pastor at Mystic. PASTORS. 1842-43. William S. Simmons 1844. Charles C. Barnes 1845-46. Pardon T. Kenney 1847. Franklin Gavitt 1848-49. San ford Benton 1850-51. L. C. Collins 1852. D. Cady 1853-54. S. W. Coggeshall J 855-56. James D. Butler 1857-58. William Kellen 1859-60. Anthony Palmer 1861-62. Frederick Upham 1863. H. M. Worcester 186^1-66. Varnum A. Cooper 1867-68. 1869-70. 1871-73. I874-75- 1876-77. 1878. 1879-81. 1882-84. 1885-87. 1888-91. 1892-93. 1893-94- 1895-97. William H. Stetson William T. Worth William P. Hyde J. F. Sheffield Asa N. Bodfish George H. Chapnell George C. King A. J. Coultas H. N. Brown W. P. Buck H. E. Cooke A. A. Kidder L. ?>. Codding SOU I 'EN I R HISTORY. PRESENT OFFICIARY. 89 Trustees M. C. Hill, Randall Browne, Charles F. Holaday, John E. Williams, Ira F. Noyes. Eben Morgan, D. F. Packer, Charles Grinnell, George E. Grinnell. Stewards Charles E. Grinnell, D. F. Packer, P. A. Irons, G. W. Keigwin, Ira F. Noyes, G. E. Grinnell, Randall Browne, J. E. Wil- liams, C. C. Porter, T. W. Ryley, John Trenena, Thomas Holaday. Sunday School Superintendent, Thomas Ryley; Assistant Superintendent, James McKendrick; Librarian, Mr. S. Brown Mc- Kenzie; Treasurer, Mr. G. E. Grinnell; Secretary, Mr. Harrie Mc- Kenzie; Superintendent Infant Department, Mrs. A. Blanche Ryley. Teachers Mrs. G. E. Grinnell, Mrs. Alice W T eems, Mrs. M. C. Hill, Mrs. J. H. Lake, Mrs. R. Browne, Miss Hattie Gabriel, Rev. William Turkington, Mr. James McKendrick, Mr. M. C. Hill. Epworth League President, James McKendrick; First Vice Pres- ident, Lottie Strickland; Second Vice President, Mrs. J. W. Lake; Third Vice President, Mr. C. C. Potter; Fourth Vice President, Mrs. A. Weems; Secretary, Harrie McKenzie; Treasurer, S. Brown Mc- Kenzie; Superintendent Junior League, Mrs. L. B. Codding. M. E. CHURCH, NOANK, CONN. Noank, one of the younger charges, is of good stock, being vir- tually the outcome of a band of Abolitionists, who came out from the THE NOANK CHURCH. Noank Baptist Church in 1863. The formal organization of the Meth- odist society was on April 9, 1878. Rev. Asa N. Bodfish organized the new church at the residence of Mr. John A. Fitch, with a member- SOUYENIR HISTORY. ship of seven, all transferred by certificate from Mystic, viz., William Healey, Captain Charles T. Potter, E. L. Beebe, John F. Tribble, Susan B. Healey, Etta Healey and Julia A. Morgan. In 1878 Rev. L. D. Bentley and Mrs. Annie Clark held revival services in Noank, creating so much interest that the building of a house of worship was begun. Mrs. Clark secured many contributions for this new edifice, and it was dedicated June 9, 1878. Soon after this Rev. Henry N. Brown served the "Chapel," as it was called, as its first pastor. He was efficient and popular. "Holiness unto the Lord" was his motto, and the people held up his hands. For the first six years after Mr. Brown's pastorate there was no Conference minister stationed there, but regular Sun- day and w r eek-night services were kept up, a good congregation gathered, and scores of conversions witnessed. Some of their numbers became Gospel workers, notably Rev. Andrew J. Potter and Rev. C. T. Potter. Mr. John A. Fitch, whose photograph accompanies this sketch, was the leading spirit, a Godly man, whose home and time were always at the disposal of his church. JOHN A. FITCH, First Treasurer. MILTON M. MATTESON, Epworth League President. WILLIAM WILSON, Early Member. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 91 He was the only Recording Steward, until his death, in 1896. Brother William Wilson has also been a loyal official from the first. In 1888 Rev. W. P. Buck became the Noank pastor. His four-year pastorate was in every way a success, leaving the church membership larger and well organized for work. Rev. H. A. Cooke, Rev. A. A. Kidder and the present pastor have found appreciative hearers and consecrated workers. A gracious revival visited this field in 1895-96. It is a religious community, and is a thriving village also in its business, having one of the best wooden ship-building industries in the country. It is a good field for the Lord's work. PASTORS. 1879-81. Henry N. Brown 1893-95. A. A. Kidder 1888-92. W. P. Buck 1895-97. L. B. Codding 1892-93. H. E. Cooke PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees F. W. Morgan, Louis E. Peterson, C. I. Chester, James Wilcox, Edward Crumley, George Porter, Milton M. Matteson, John Spencer; William W T ilson. Stewards F. W. Morgan, Ella Morgan, Louis E. Peterson, Wil- liam Wilson, George Porter, Maria Peterson, Annie Wilson, Harriet Chester, Clissie Libbey. Sunday School Superintendent, Mrs. Charles I. Chester; Assist- ant Superintendent, William W T ilson; Secretary and Treasurer, Mrs. C. V. Libbey. Teachers Mrs. C. I. Chester, Ella P. Morgan, Lottie Morgan, Mrs.- Ellen Rathbun, Mrs. Maria Peterson, William Wilson, F. W. Morgan, Mrs. Lillie Rogers. Epworth League President, Milton M. Matteson; First Vice President, L. Peterson; Second Vice President, Mrs. A. Wilson; Third Vice President, Mrs. Ruth Palmer; Fourth Vice President, Mrs. Ruth Palmer; Secretary and Treasurer, Calista Libbey. M. E. CHURCH, NEW LONDON, CONN. (This historic sketch is largely prepared from a sketch published in the New London Telegram, Oct. 30, 1893, during the Centennial Anniversary of this church. The Editor.) The introduction of Methodism to New London was by Jesse Lee, Wednesday, September 2, 1789. He was on his way through Rhode Island to Boston to see what opportunity offered for the work of the Methodists in those parts. He had come to Connecticut from New York the preceding May for the special purpose of establishing preaching places and circuits to be occupied later by preachers to be sent to his assistance from the South. He organized the first Metho- dist Episcopal society in New Eng- land at Stratfield, Conn., on Sep- tember 25 in that year. He stopped in New London several times dur- ing the next and succeeding sea- sons, but formed no society. Bishop Asbury passed through the village in June, 1791, on his way to hold the conference in Lynn, Mass. This being his first visit to New England, he was much impressed with the condition of the country and the contrast it afforded to that of the South and the frontiers, and records in his journal his impressions and hopes. On August ii of 1793 a conference was held at Tolland, at which George Roberts was placed as an Elder in charge of all the work in Connecticut, included in the circuits of Hartford, Middletown, Litch- field and Tolland, and a new one was formed, called New London, to which he was appointed with R. Swain and F. Aldridge as junior preachers. This circuit embraced all Connecticut east of Tolland. It included Windham, Hebron, Glastonbury, and extended down the Connecticut River to Lyme and reached into Rhode Island. It covered very nearly the same territory that is now known as the Norwich District of the New England Southern Conference. THF. NEW LONDON CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 93 In October a class was formed in New London. The first class paper was in the handwriting of George Roberts, and being dated October 24, it has usually been supposed that the society was organ- ized the evening previous. The Register of Church Membership, how- ever, compiled in 1818, during the lifetime of its first members, gives the date as October 1 1, 1793. The names of those enrolled are Richard Douglass, Ann Douglass, Nancy Douglass, Peter Griffing, Jenett Hall, Anab Moor, Sally Lewis, Isaac Rogers. On the 2/th of the month there were added Mary Lewis, George Potter, Elizabeth Potter, Ann Smith. Before the close of the year seven others joined, viz., Mary Smith, Freelove Miller, Luther Gale, Abigail Potter and Epaphras Kibby. The number reported at the close of the year for the whole circuit was fifty. Mr. Roberts exhibited "extraordinary pulpit power." Though never given to controversy, yet, preaching in the Court House one evening, he felt it his duty to reply to the arguments he had heard pre- sented in the afternoon in the same place in a sermon by a distin- guished Universalist minister. Such was the effect of his logic and pow- ers of persuasion that more than a dozen young men were awakened religiously. Among them was Epaphras Kibby, who soon joined the society, and in 1798 became a traveling preacher of marked abil- ity, well known throughout New England till his death in 1864, at the age of 87 years, 67 of which were spent in the ministry. A revival of considerable extent occurred in the spring of 1794. Before the close of the year the societies of the circuit numbered 219 persons. The names of 39 persons only are preserved on the Church Register as having joined in New London during this time. Methodism was now well established in the place, and included in its fold many people of sterling integrity and excellent ability. Daniel Burrows, who joined the class in January, 1794, was afterwards a local preacher, a member of Congress and a member of the conven- tion which adopted the present State Constitution. December 15, 1795, a meeting was held to plan for the building of a meeting-house. A subscription paper was started, but the build- ing was not erected till 1798. REV. RICHARD POVEY. 94 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Though possessed of no meeting-house till five years after the church was formed, the society was able to hold its preaching services in the Court House and the other meetings at the houses of the members. July 15, 1795, Bishop Asbury held a conference in the house of Daniel Burrows. Nineteen preachers were present. On Friday, July 20, 1798, the first meeting-house was raised, and on the following Sunday it was dedicated. Jesse Lee and Bishop As- bury were both present and preached. The house stood on Golden Hill, at the northwest corner of what is now Union and Methodist streets. It was afterward sold and removed, and now stands at the southeast corner of Methodist and Washington streets. The lot of 26 1-2 square rods cost $225. The building was in an unfin- ished state till 1800. The first Board of Trustees con- sisted of Richard Douglass, Daniel Burrows, George Pot- ter, Peter Griffing, Isaiah Bolles, Luther Gale and John Shepherd. In 1806 there was some re- vival interest, yet the reports show no great addition to the numbers in the society. Dur- ing the seven years previous the increase had been gradual, till now 381 members were reported on the whole circuit, but what proportion of these was in the village it is impossible to ascertain. April 17, 1808, Conference assembled here for the second time. Fifty preachers were in attendance. The meeting-house of the First Congregational Church was courteously tendered for the ordination service, and Bishop Asbury accordingly preached and ordained the preachers there on Sunday. A great revival followed this Conference session and continued many months. In 1816 a great revival began in September and continued many months, all the churches sharing in it and all classes in the community being reached. Three hundred were added to the Methodist Church. The old meeting-house was now too small to accommodate the people. Rev. Ebenez^r Blake, one of the preachers, headed the subscription list for a new building. The old one was sold and removed, and a new one erected on the old site, which was dedicated in 1817, Mr. Blake preach- ing the dedication sermon. In 1818, New London was made a station by request of the THE NEW LONDON PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 95 society, and Asa Kent was appointed to the charge. He was a man of rare executive ability. The records of the church were for the first time put in proper shape and careful revision made of the membership list. During the two years of his pastorate one hundred and fifty were taken into the church, but the total increase was not great, since sixty- eight removed, twenty were dropped, three withdrew and twenty- four were expelled. Peace, harmony and prosperity in general char- acterized this pastorate. He was followed in 1820 by Elijah Hedding, afterward Bishop, who found the recent revivals had added many excellent people to the church, but had also brought in a boisterous, unruly element, mak- "There will be Preaching at the Court House Tonight at early candle-light by a Methodist Preacher," Jesse Lee, September 2, 1789. ing high professions of piety, but extremely visionary, uncharitable and refusing all financial support to the church. Though a man of gi eat abilities and devotion, little progress could be made. His health failed, and he left the charge before the end of the year. Matters grew worse during the next few years. The crisis came in 1827, during the pastorate of La Roy Sunderland. Robert Bowser, who had been junior preacher on the circuit in 1812, had retired from the ministry, after one year of service, and settled in New London. Being brought to trial by Mr. Sunderland on charges of immorality, he was found guilty and expelled. Many of the most influential mem- bers of the society opposed this action, and the Trustees closed the church against this preacher. Open ruptures between the Trustees and Church came in 1829, when, the house being closed against the Church, they had to hire SOUVENIR HISTORY. the old meeting-house. This controversy was the culmination of ten years of dissension. The election of a new Board of Trustees in 1830 and the appointment of James Porter to the station in 1831 and 1832, who administered the discipline of the church firmly, settled the troubles. Some were expelled, others withdrew, and the remainder rallied for united work and had a good revival. The subject of slavery was much discussed throughout the coun- try from 1834 to 1840. A strong anti-slavery feeling was developed in the New England churches. In 1840 many withdrew from the denomination and organized the Wesleyan Methodist Church without Bishops. Forty members of this church withdrew and joined the new movement. The trustees were in sympathy with them, and gave them the use of the meeting-house, GEORGE W. GUARD, Sunday School Superintendent. S. A. PRENTIS, Bpworth League President. shutting out the Methodist Episcopal Church, which became reduced in numbers to 155 members. John Lovejoy was pastor in 1839-40. The conference room of the First Congregational Church was secured for meetings. Next year, under the pastorate of Ralph W. Allen, they were allowed the use of their own meeting-house, but being again warned out by the Trustees, went to the Court House in the spring of 1842. Here the congregations increased and revival influences pre- vailed. Many were converted and added to the church. Pending the settlement of the title to the meeting-house on Union street, a new building enterprise was undertaken. A lot was secured on Washing- ton street, and the cornerstone of a new church edifice was laid by the pastor July 4, 1842. The house was dedicated December 8 following by Miner Raymond, D. D. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 97 The closing of the first half-century of the church's history was celebrated June 4, 1843. This Sunday was the last one in the Confer- ence year. The membership numbered 293. The church was united, harmonious, rejoicing in a new church-house and in large accessions of recent converts. Bishops Morris and Hedding were present and preached during the day. Many noble men and women, true to God and devoted to the Church, had been numbered in the membership since George Roberts formed the first class. Few churches ever had such extensive revivals and large additions to its membership in a like period of time. Few ever passed through such bitter controversies and still maintained an existence. Fewer still ever emerged from the fires so strong in spirit- ual power, -so united for work 'and possessing the confidence of the community at large. The second half-century has seen the church steadily advance in numbers and material prosperity. Though there have been fewer sweeping revivals than in the earlier period, there has been more peace and harmony and a higher general tone of morality prevailing. The pastors have generally done noble work. Many of them have become distinguished. Revivals have occurred in nearly every pastorate. Rev. John B. Gould's pastorate was blessed with 70 addi- tions to the church at one service. During Rev. J. E. Hawkins' pastor- ate the church was cleared of a $2,500 debt. Valuable improvements took place during the pastorates of Rev. A. J. Coultas and W. J. Yates. During the latter there was also a blessed revival that added many to the church, and the centennial of the church was observed. During the present pastorate some valuable improvements have been made on the church and parsonage. The present membership is 431,. with 41 probationers. PASTORS. T 793- George Roberts T 799- R. Swain Fredus Aldriclge 1800. 1794. W. Lee D. Abbott 1801. Z. Priest E. Muclge T 795- Amos G. Thompson 1802. L. McCombs 1796. Nathaniel Chapin 1803. Timothy Merritt 1797. Shadrach Bostwick 1804. John Nichol 1798. N. Chapin, 1805. Shubal Lamb L. McCombs Abner Wood Daniel Brumley Alexander McLane Peter Vannest Phineas Peck James Annis Michael Coate Aaron Hunt John Nichol William Pickett Abner Wood Benjamin Hill Nathan Emory Thomas Branch 98 SOUVENIR HISTORY. i8o6. Ebenezer Washburn 1829. E G. Norris L 1807. Daniel Perry 1830. 1 Theoph. Smith C 1808. G. R. Norris 1831-32. J; Isaac Bonney 1833-34. E 1809. Elisha Streeter 1835-36. s John Lindsay 1837- I 1810. Joel Winch 1838. A E. Marble 1839-40. J, A. Stebbins 1841. F 1811. J. Chancy E B. Sabin 1842. F J. Lewis 1843-44. S 1812. Warren Banister 1845- J Robert Bowzer S 1813. Joel Steel 1846. J. William Marsh 1847-48. A 1814. Francis Dane 1849-50. C V. R. Osborn 1851. S 1815- Elisha Streeter 1852-53- 1 Nathan Paine 1854-55- ^ 1816. Ebenezer Blake 1856-57- J 1816. Daniel Dorchester 1858-59- J' 1817. E. Blake 1 860-6 1. F J. McKee 1862-63. \ 1818-19. Asa Kent 1864-65. F 1820. Elijah Hedding 1866-67. V 1821. V. R. Osborn 1868-69. J 1822-23. T. W. Tucker 1870-71. L 1824. D. Dorchester 1872-73. A George Fairbank 1874-76. J J. W. Case 1877-79. C 1825. Isaac Stoddard 1 880-8 1. F 1826. Newell S. Spaulding 1882-84. S 1827. La Roy Sunderland 1885-87. J 1828. A. Taylor 1888-91. / George Sutherland 1 892-94. \ 1895. F Reuben Ransom L. B. Griffing L. B. Griffing C. D. Rogers James Porter E. Blake S. B. Haskell Daniel Webb \braham Holway John Lovejoy Ralph W. Allen B. C. Phelps R. W r . Allen Sanford Benton John Howson Sanford Benton John Howson M. P. Alderman George M. Carpenter Samuel Fox Thomas Ely Merritt P. Alderman John B. Gould John D. King Paul Townsend Varnum A. Cooper Francis J. W T agner W. J. Robinson James D. Butler Charles S. McReading A. W. Paige John Gray George W. Anderson Henry D. Robinson S. Olin Benton J. Ellis Hawkins A. J. Coultas Walter J. Yates R. Povey PRESENT OFFICIARY. Sunday School Superintendent, Stephen A. Prentis, Assistant Superintendent, Frederick Miner; Secretary, Mrs. A. W. Rogers; As- sistant Secretary, Albert E. Harris; Treasurer, Hezekiah B. Smith; Librarian, Charles Butler; First Assistant Librarian, Harry Holmes; Second Assistant Librarian, Frederick Edgerton; Pianist, Mary Decker; Chorister, Benjamin B. Gardiner; Superintendent Primary Department, Mrs. B. F. Bushnell; Superintendent Intermediate De- partment, Sarah Jewell Havens. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 99 Teachers Lillian Daniels, John Goddard, Airs. L. P. Vinton, Lucy A. Kellogg, Mrs. Edward Potter, Andrew J. Hobron, John H. Root, Cassie Barker, Walter S. Calvert, Annie Adams, Minnie G. Bar- ker, Mrs. R. H. Perkins, Mary A. Winchester, Mrs. W. B. Hovey, Myra Miller, Esther Povey, Thomas Phillips, Walter Meggs, Mrs. W. H. Edwards, Walter E. Spicer, Alice Wheeler, Mrs. Charles Morris, Mrs. L. D. Bentley, Mrs. J. H. Root, Irene Douglass, Ethel Kellogg, Nettie Levens, Etta Crocker, Edna Booth, Harriet Walden, Lettie Whitaker, Charles E. Senior, Henry L. Stearns, Alice Cheesman, Ger- trude Page, Mrs. S. A. Prentis, Mrs. Blake, Julia Miner, Benjamin B. Gardiner, Rev. R. Povey. Substitutes, George H. Holmes, Lillian Noone. Epzi'orth League President, George W. Guard; First Vice Presi- dent, Harriet Walden; Second Vice President, Lucretia H. Root; Third Vice President, Luther G. Stebbins; Fourth Vice President, Harriet E. Squire ; Secretary, Grace Emma Povey ; Treasurer, Charles W. Clark. M. E. CHURCH, NIANTIC, CONN. By Rev. J. T. Benton. Niantic is located in the town of East Lyme, eight miles west of New London, Conn. It is quite a seaside resort. Methodist preach- ing, according to traditional authority, dates from the year 1810. A THE NIANTIC CHURCH. small class was organized about that time, but did not continue long-. For several subsequent years itinerant preachers occasionally visited the place, and held services in private residences. The class was re- 1OO SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. THE NIANTIC PARSONAGE. vived in 1836, and class meetings were held quite regularly from that time. The church was organized February ist, 1842. The following year a circuit was formed and named Lyme and East Lyme. Rev. A. ]',. Wheeler was the first Conference preacher. A house of worship was built that year at a cost of about $1,000, on land donat- ed by Captain Avery Smith. It was dedicated November 3, 1843, by Rev. R. W. Allen, Presiding Elder. In 1858 the first parsonage was erected. Rev. G. D. Boyn- ton was then pastor. Lyme and East Lyme continued in charge till 1869. Then East Lyme had become so re- duced by deaths that the Presiding Elder deemed it inadvisable to send a preacher to this place. However, a few faithful members continued to meet on the Sabbath for worship. In the Fall of that year Rev. D. C. House was licensed and placed in charge. The appointment thereafter was named Xiantic. A number of English Methodists arrived about this time and added courage and strength to the languishing society. Larger church accommodations were re- quired, and a new edifice was erected in 1873. R gv - J- ^- Buck- ley, D. D., preached the dedica- tory sermon. Rev. D. A. Jordan was pastor. Many were added to the church during his term of ser- vice. The first Sunday School was organized by Rev. J. T. Benton in 1856. Twenty years later he was appointed to this charge a second time, and inaugurated more sys- tematic methods of church work. His successor, Rev. C. H. Ewer, by skilful management, secured the erection of a new and commodious parsonage on a lot given by Captain Edward Luce. During the years 1882-83 a large number of Swedish Methodists joined the church. Their zeal and CHARLES E. LATHAM. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 101 fidelity greatly increased its efficiency. The society had now attained considerable numerical strength, and every department of church work was sustained faithfully and successfully. For several years the church was favored with a high degree of prosperity. Subsequently it suf- fered great reduction in numbers and resources from business changes and financial depression. Many excellent families moved away. The Great Reaper also garnered quite a harvest of ripened sheaves. HOW- REV. J. E. JOHNSON. MRS. J. E. JOHNSON. ever, the Niantic Methodist Episcopal Church has never entertained the expectation of death. In 1890, the first year of the pastorate of Rev. W. I. Ward, Epworth League, Chapter 3125, was organized. During his fourth year a subscription for improvements in the house of worship was commenced. The work was carried forward and com- pleted by his successor, Rev. R. D. Dyson. The total cost was nearly $1,700. No indebtedness was incurred. The society has now a very attractive audience-room and chapel. The most marked characteristics of the Niantic Methodist Episcopal Church have been loyalty, liber- ality, fraternity and spirituality. PASTORS. 1843. 1844-45. 1846-47. 1848-49. 1850. " 1851. 1852. A. B. Wheeler Henry Torbush Roger Albiston M. Leffingwell I. Sherman J. F. Rlanchard J. F. Blanchard J. Standish J. B. Dennison 1853- 1854. 1855-56. 1857. 1858. 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-65. 1866-68. P. S. Mather H. W. Smith J. T. Benton J. W. Case G. D. Boynton Lozien Pierce F. C. Newell Jabez Pack L. E. Dunham IO2 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1869-70. D. C. House 1871-73- D. A. Jordan 1874- A. Palmer 1875. A. A. Presbrey 1876-78. J. T. Benton 1879-81. C. H. Ewer 1882-83. Robert Clark 1884-86. 1887-88. 1889. 1890-93. 1894-96. 1897. f. C. Gowan E. Tirrell Joseph Hollingshead W. I. Ward R. D. Dyson J. E. Johnson PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Edward Luce, Thomas Hill, Warren Gates, Nehemiah Gates. Stewards Edward Luce, Warren Gates, Nehemiah Gates, Martin C. Walter, John White, Thomas Hill, James Odgers, John Taylor, William G. Williams, Lizzie A. Benton, Susan K. Luce, Flora M. Smith. Sunday School Suerintendent, Susan K. Luce; Assistant Super- intendent, W 7 illiam G. Williams; Secretary, Alvin W. Gates; Treasurer, Mary E. Hick; Librarian, Arthur E. Havens; Assistant Librarian, Annie Rook; Chorister, Nettie Dunstan; Organist, Annie Hill; Assist- ant Organist, Beatrice Kingdon. Teachers Nehemiah Gates, Lottie R. Havens, Susie Rook, Jas. H. Dingle, Warren Gates, Charles E. Latham, Mary E. Gates, Edward Luce, Eunice Gates, Bertha M. Latham, Edna Beckwith, Bradford A. Latham, Florence T. Chapman, William G. Williams, Mary E. Hick, Nettie Dunstan, Annie Hill, J. E. Johnson. M. E. CHURCH, NORTH GROSVENOR DALE, CONN. North Grosvenor Dale charge is in the town of Thompson, Conn. It was formerly known as the Fisherville charge, but since 1866 the charge has been known by its present name. In the year 1841 a project was started to build a stock- holders' house of worship in this village by George Nich- ols, Edward Aldrich, William Fisher and sons and others. This movement being suc- cessful, the Providence Con- ference \vas asked to send a preacher. In response to this request Rev. Charles C. Barnes was sent in June, xo. GROSVENOR DALE CHURCH. 1842. After his arrival SOUVENIR PI I STORY. 103 meetings were held in the schoolhouse until the church edi- fice was completed. This was accomplished, and the building was ded- icated in August, 1842. Rev. Miner Raymond preached the dedica- tory sermon, and was followed by Rev. A. D. Merrill in the evening, some presenting themselves for prayers at the close of the service. Some of the earliest mem- bers of this church came from the Webster charge, but the greater number were trans- ferred from the old West Thompson Church. Mr. Barnes' term of service was prosperous. According to his report to the Annual Confer- ence there were 128 members at the close of the first year. He remained two years upon the charge. The church was somewhat embarrassed financially at the begin- ning, and it continued in this state for several years. In January, ' 1857, Mr. Joseph Green, who usually worshiped here, died, leaving to the church the generous sum of $3,000, $1,500 of which was to be expended for a parsonage, $700 for a "fund" and $800 to take the church edifice out of the hands of the stockholders, NO. GRCSVENOR DALE PARSONAGE. REV. G. H. HASTINGS. MRS. G. H. HASTINGS. pay off its liabilities and make it a free church. This gift was a great and timely aid to the society. The provisions of the will were carried out at once, and the present parsonage was purchased in 1857. IO4 SOUVENIR HISTORY. During several of the pastorates repairs and improvements have been made in the church and parsonage property. Recently the par- sonage has been repaired and improved at an expense of several hun- dred dollars, rendering it much more attractive and comfortable. HON'. OSCAR TOURTELLOTTE, Sunday School Superintendent. REV. F. M. MESSENGER, Local Preacher. This charge is prosperous financially and spiritually. There are two preaching places in this charge. The pastor preaches in the church at North Grosvenor Dale in the morning and at Grosvenor Dale in the afternoon. PASTORS. 1842. Charles C. Barnes 1844-45. Anthony Palmer 1846-47. F. W. Bill 1848-49. Daniel Dorchester 1850-51. Robert McGonegal 1852. L. D. Bentley 1853-54. E- F. Hinks ' J 855-5- Warren Emerson r 8S7-58. William S. Simmons 1859-60. O. Cady 1861-62. E. S. Stanley 1863. Anthony Palmer 1864-65. James A. Dean 1866-67. L. W. Blood 1868-69. L. E. Dunham 1870-71. 1872. 1873. 1875- 1876-77. 1878-80. 1881-82. 1883-84. 1885. 1886-88. 1889-92. 1893-97. A. A. Presbrey James S. Thomas Richard Povey F. D. Goodrich (six months) F. D. Sargent (six months) E. M. Anthony J. Q. Adams F. C. Newell D. L. Brown E. F. Smith George A. Morse E. J. Ayres George H. Hastings SOUVENIR HISTORY. PRESENT OFFICIARY. 105 Trustees E. Perrin, J. N. Upham, O. Tourtelotte, F. M. Mes- senger, E. F. Thompson, L. M. Child, C. A. Potter, George A. Elliott, C. H. Hnntington. Stewards E. Perrin, George A. Elliott, T. Wilbur, E. M. Arnold, W. S. Arnold, D. S. Curtis, F. S. Richmond, M. A. Darbie, J. B. Tour- telotte, F. A. Maryolle, B. E. Elliott, E. L. Huntington, Joseph Baker. Local Preacher F. M. Messenger. E.vhorter D. S. Curtis. Sunday School Superintendent, Oscar Tourtelotte; Assistant Superintendent, Charles A. Potter; Secretary and Treasurer, Burton E. Elliott; Librarian, Everett L. Huntington; Assistant Librarian, Frank M. Messenger, Jr.; Organist, Miss Alice M. Potter. Teachers F. M. Messenger, E. M. Arnold, Alice M. Spencer, C. A. Potter, Mattie C. Potter, Louva C. Potter, Joseph Baker. Sunday School Superintendent, Myron A. Darbie; Assistant Su- perintendent, Walter S. Arnold; Secretary and Treasurer, James C. Blinn; Librarian, C. H. Austin. Teachers M. A. Darbie, W. S. Arnold, Mrs. Mary A. Elliott, Mrs. Florence I. Austin; Organist, Miss Ida L. Hutchinson. NORTH MAIN STREET M. E. CHURCH, NORWICH, CONN. In 1833, during the pastorate of Rev. Isaac Stoddard over the Norwich appointment, five Methodist ladies removed to Greenville REV. AND MRS. D. N. BENTLEY. and were employed in the cotton mill of Mr. Archibald Kennedy. These were soon formed into a class, and Mr. Jesse Denison, who was io6 SOUVENIR HISTORY. an exhorter, was appointed the first leader. The names of those emi- nent five were Hannah Cranston, Sabra Bushnell, Roxana Stark- weather, Sarah Denison and Belinda Rood. A Miss Hannah Dean, who came from Willimantic, was also included in the class. The interest increased, and additions were made until, in 1839, it was deemed best to erect a house for public worship in this locality. This house was completed and dedicated in the early part of 1840, Rev. D. Dorchester preaching the sermon. During- the pastorate of D. M. Rogers it was lengthened to meet the requirements of the increasing audience. REV. JOHN OLDHAM. MRS. JOHN OLDHAM. About 1855 the society began to decline in numbers, until in the autumn of 1861 public Sabbath services were discontinued and the chapel sold. Great was the sorrow of the older members as they left for the last time their religious home, but Methodism was not extin- guished by this event. The present church was begun in 1863 and completed in 1864, the dedication services being held April 7, 1864, Rev. J. Ellis Hawkins, who had just been appointed there, preaching the sermon from I. Peter, i:i3_ Mr. Hawkins' pastorate was remarkable for a revival which con- tinued with more or less effectiveness throughout the entire three years of his pastoral term there. A parsonage was built on the lot adjoining the church during the pastorate of Rev. H. Montgomery, 1880-81. Revivals occurred during the pastorates of S. Lamberton, R. crtson, M. P. Alderman, Charles Morse, Sanford Benton, L. Dag- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 107 gett, Jr., William Turkington, W. O. Cady, J. E. Hawkins, F. C. Baker and E. Blake. Of later years this church has been greatly embarrassed by the tendency of Methodists in that locality to attend the larger churches which are located near the centre of the city. The Epworth League was organized during the pastorate of Rev. J. F. Sheffield, but was discontinued about two years later. This church was known as "Greenville" until within a few years, the present name being North Main Street Church. Those who have the interests of this church at heart are rinding much cause for consolation in the fact that Mrs. Asenath Wilbur, an aged and respected member of many years' standing, has made her will, bequeathing to this church all her property at death. This will be a fine acquisition of property, and will furnish what is now regarded as an excellent site for a new church edifice. PASTORS. 1842. 1843- 1845. 1846. 1847- 1848-49. 1850. ' 1851. 1852. 1853- 1854.' 1855-56. 1857- 1858. 1859-60. 1861. 1862-63. 1864-66. S. Lamberton R. Albiston D. M. Rogers S. Benton S. Benton I. M. Bidwell L. Daggett A. Palmer M. P. Alderman Charles Morse B. M. Walker W. O. Cady \V. Turkington J. Pack N. G. Lippitt F. Upham E. B. Bradford E. F. Clark J. E. Hawkins J. \J\J / WW V V lllO^JL 1870-71. A. W. Mills 1872. D. L. Brown 1873-74. G. D. B. Stoddard 1875-76. Z. S. Haynes 1877. William Kirkby 1878-79. L. D. Bentley 1 880-8 1. H. Montgomery 1882-83. F. C. Baker 1884-85. C. S. Davis 1886-87. E. F. Smith 1888. G. H. Lamson 1889. G. W. Wright 1890-91. S. V. B. Cross 1892. J. F. Sheffield 1893-94. H. E. Murkett 1895. William Turkington 1896. S. J. Rook 1807. J. Olclham PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stewards George Wheeler, George Matthews, Joseph C. Marole, Charles I. Spaulding, James R. D. Oldham, Samuel Crowe (R. S.), Sterling Nelson. Trustees Paul B. Greene, Charles I. Spaulding, John Gray, Cal- vin Miner, .Sterling Nelson, George Wheeler, George Matthews. Sunday School Superintendent, J. R. D. Oldham ; Assistant Su- perintendent, Mary Morrowe. M. K. CHURCH, NORWICH TOWN, CONN. The Rev. Jesse Lee preached the first Methodist sermon in Nor- wich at the house of Airs. Thankful Pierce, June 25, 1790. She heard this distinguished pioneer of Methodism at Tolland, Conn., and was NORWICH TOWN CHURCH. so much affected by his "spirit and doctrine" that she invited him to preach in Norwich. On the following day Mr. Lee preached at the REV. J. S. THOMAS. MRS. J. S. THOMAS. instance of Captain James Hyde in the "Old Academy," which was situated at the foot of Bean Hill. Bishop Asbury preached also in the "Old Academy" on Monday, at 8 o'clock in the morning of July 20, 1795, having come from the New London Conference on the same day. In 1796 a small class was SOUVENIR HISTORY. 109 formed in Norwich North, comprising some of the best inhabitants of the town. Among its earliest members we find the names of Captain James Hyde, father of the late Rev. Edward Hyde; Solomon Williams, Richard Lamb, "Father Lathrop," Mrs. Carew and her amiable daugh- F. H. BUSHNELL, Sunday School Superintendent. FLORENCE LJLLIBRIDGE, Junior League President. ter Sarah, Mrs. Lamb and Miss Sarah Clement of precious memory. There being no class at the Landing, Mrs. Thankful Pierce also united with this class. They were accustomed to meet for worship in the "Old Academy," for many years, though its accommodations were rather plain. It was furnished with "rough seats." Mr. Solomon Williams was for many years class leader. He was industrious, consistent and beloved. Not far from 1823 he assisted in revolutionizing the "Old Academy," re- moving the stage, "rough seats," desks, etc., erecting a pulpit on the centre of the back side and a flight of stairs in front on the outside. The "Norwich North" Society has never lost its organization, though experiencing great changes, and is therefore the parent of all the Methodist churches in the city. It has never had a large mem- bership, although favored with many revivals and contributing much to the numbers and success of other churches. During the pastorates of Rev. Caleb D. Rogers and Leonard Grif- fing the church planned the erection of a sanctuary which was dedi- cated in the summer of 1831, when an able sermon was" preached by Rev. Fitch Reed of the New York Conference. Prominent in this work were Joshua Maples, Aaron Armstrong and Joseph T. Manning, also Erastus Wentworth, Esq., the father of the Rev. Erastus Went- worth. no SOUVENIR HISTORY. Although connected with the Congregational Church, he aided in every way the new enterprise. A revival soon followed, when his honored son became a subject of divine grace and richly rewarded his religious Catholicity. A good authority states: Norwich North Church "has even been blessed with devoted men and women, who, loving its doctrine and discipline, have sought and enjoyed the life and power of Godliness." Also: "That the pastorates of Revs. Pardon T. Kenney and Sanford Benton were highly appreciated, and Revs. George M. Carpenter, Frank W. Bill and Walter Ela witnessed revival prosperity." Rev. Norris G. Lippitt served this church, although a local min- ister, several terms, numbering in all nearly twelve years. Under his ministry in 1857 a gracious revival was enjoyed, in which sixty souls professed conversion. Rev. H. N. Brown, another local minister, supplied the church for five years with great acceptance, resulting in the conversion of many sinners and the sanctification of many believers. In 1879, under Rev. N. G. Lippitt's administration, the church building was repaired and improved at a cost of $1,800. 1842-44. 1845- 1846. .'847-48. 1849-50. 1851-52. 1853-54. 1855-57. 1858. 1859-62. 1863-64. 1865-66. 1866-67. 1868. 1869-70. PASTORS. Daniel Dorchester 1871. Lawton Cady 1872-73. Abel Gardner 1874-76. George M. Carpenter 1877-78. Frank W. Bill 1879-80. Erastus Benton 1881-82. Jno. Cooper 1883. Norris G. Lippitt John Whear 1884-85. Norris G. Lippitt 1886-87. William Turkington 1888-92. W T alter Ela 1893-94. Norris G. Lippitt 1895. L. W. Blood 1896-97. Robert Clark N. G. Lippitt L. D. Bentley John Love joy William Penn Hyde N. G. Lippitt George W. Brewster A. C. Kurd (Congrega- tionalist) F. C. Baker E. F. Smith H. N. Brown J. O. Dodge L. H. Massey J. S. Thomas PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees R. P. Rose, Peter Wilson, F. H. Bushnell, Frank Rose, Louis Frazier, O. T. Beers, James Lathrop, Avery Miller. Stczvards O. T. Beers, W. H. Bushnell, Louis Frazier, Avery Miller, Peter Wilson, B. F. Xye, Oliver Tracey, Mrs. Mary E. Rose, F. H. Bushnell. Sunday School Superintendent, F. H. Bushnell; Assistant Super- intendent, Mrs. F. H. Bushnell; Secretary and Treasurer, Leonora Miller; Librarian, Frank Lillibridge. SOUVENIR HISTORY. Ill Teachers Rev. J. S. Thomas, Mrs. J. S. Thomas, F. H. Bushnell, Mrs. F. H. Bushnell, Edith L. Thomas, Clara Huntington. Junior League President, Edith L. Thomas. TRINITY M. E. CHURCH, NORWICH, CONN. Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church of Norwich, Conn., was organized in April, 1895, it being formed by the consolidation of three previously existing Methodist Episcopal churches which had been REV. J. L. P1TNER, D. D. MRS. J. :L. PITNER. known as Sachem Street, East Main Street and Central. The histon' of each of these former churches is herewith presented. I. SACHEM STREET CHURCH. After the church at the Landing was washed away by the Hood February 23, 1824, a period of depression followed, in which the Meth- odist cause seemed to be hopelessly weak. Without a church building the Methodists were dependent on the hospitality of other churches, and to the lasting credit of all, Baptists, Universalists, Congregation- alists and Episcopalians alike tendered them the use of their houses of worship. A resolution introduced by Colonel Elisha Tracy of this city to the Legislature, authorizing the Governor to issue a proclamation to all the churches of Connecticut of every denomination, to take a contribution on a specified Sabbath for the benefit of the Methodists of Norwich Landing, was carried bv both Houses, and Governor Wol- 112 SOUVENIR HISTORY. cott issued the proclamation. This netted only $463.32. Promise of future aid being given, provided the new church could be erected at the Falls, it was decided to build in that vicinity, where a class had been organized since 1813. The new house of worship was dedicated June 10. 1825. by Kev. J. A. Merrill, Presiding Elder of the district. SACHEM STREET CHURCH. The society had become reduced to forty-five, but from this time it rapidly increased until in about a year it reported one hundred and eighty-three members. The last house of worship was purchased from a Congregational society which felt compelled to evacuate this territory, the tranfer being made in 1853, during the pastorate of Rev. William Leonard. The amount paid was $2,765.66, and the site and edifice thus secured was considered one of the best in the city at the time. It was opened with a sermon by Bishop Baker from Psalms xlviii: 12, 13. Rev. H. W. Conant, pastor in 1862-63, succeeded in clearing en- tirely the debt which had remained on the property till that time. Revivals are reported during the pastorates of William Livesey, A. Latham. F. Fisk, B. M. Walker, D. H. Ela and E. F. Clark. During the pastorate of Rev. G. C. King great improvements were made, including the addition of a new pulpit set, Gothic windows and a parsonage. A new reed organ of excellent tone was added, and the Epworth League was organized during the pastorate of J. M. Taber. SOUVENIR HISTORY. This church was known as "Falls," 1837-53; Norwich Centre. 1853-55; Sachem Street, in 1855; Norwich Centre resumed in 1856; Sachem Street resumed in 1859. This church had an excellent line of pastors and was always found by them a pleasant place in which to labor. 1825. 1826. 1827. 1828. 1829. 1830. 1831-32. 1833. 1834- 1835- 1836-37- 1838. 1839. 1840. 1841. 1 842-43. Elias Marble R. Ransom C. D. Rogers E. Marble A. Taylor N. S. Spaulding G. Sutherland A. Taylor R. Ransom L. B. Griffing C. D. Rogers L. B. Griffing Peter Sabin J. Stoddard N. Day D. N. Bentley G. May William Livesey A. C. Wheat D. N. Bentley C. D. Rogers E. Blake A. Latham W. H. Richards PASTORS. 1844. 1845-46. 1847-48. 1849. 1850-51. 1852-53- 1854-55- 1856. 1857-59- 1 860-6 1. 1862-63. 1864-66. 1867-68. 1869-70. 1871. 1872-74. 1875-77- 1878. 1879-81. 1882-84. 1885-87. 1888-90. 1891-93. 1894. L. Leffingwell F. Fisk S. Dean J. Mather B. M. Walker W. Leonard T. Ely J. M. Worcester D. H. Ela J. Livesey H. W. Conant E. F. Clark G. S. Alexander T. M. House W. H. Stetson N. G. Lippitt W. A. Luce E. M. Dunham J. H. James G. C. King A. J. Coultas J. M. Taber G. A. Grant F. L. Streeter II. EAST MAIN STREET M. E. CHURCH. On June 25, 1790, Jesse Lee preached the first Methodist sermon in Norwich in the house of Mrs. Thankful Pierce, the first Methodist convert in Norwich, which house is still standing on West Main street, near Thames street. In 1798 a small class was formed by John Beatty, a local preacher from Ireland, and his wife, in their house, situated near the present Broadway Church. Early in 1816 David N. Bentley contracted for the erection of a church 30 by 36 feet on the north side of the wharf bridge, which was dedicated by Rev. Ebenezer Blake, whose text was Psalms Ixxviii: 20. This church was carried away by the great flood of Feb. 13, 1824. This society now joined the Falls Society in the erection of a house of worship in that locality, which for a time appears to have 114 SOUVENIR HISTORY. satisfied the members at the Landing, but by 1833 the distance was felt to be a severe tax on their convenience and prosperity, in view of which fact action was taken at a meeting of the "Norwich City Station" (under which name the society at the Landing was now re-established by permission of the Conference), June 23, 1834, author- izing individuals to procure a lot and contract for a house thereon; but to do so in their individual capacity that the society, as such, be not involved in the contract. The house thus arranged for was built by Shepard & Rogers, by contract of Rev. D. N. Bentley, Jesse Fuller EAST MAIN STREET CHURCH. and Andrew Clark, and was 44 1-2 by 60 feet, with a basement and steeple, and cost $3,200. This house was dedicated by Rev. Dr. Fisk, his text being Psalms xciii: 5. The deed of the property was retained by Rev. D. X. Bentley and Jesse Fuller until July i, 1844, when the pecuniary responsibility was assumed by the Board of Trustees ap- pointed by the Quarterly Conference. In 1839 a Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in Green- ville, and in 1854 another one on West Main street by members going from this church. Thus, with four churches within the city limits, it was long felt by many that with such a limited constituency the moral force of the denomination was diminished and the financial burdens largely augmented. During the pastorate of Rev. E. J. Haynes, 1866-69, tne church was remodelled, a steeple and front, entirely new, being added. A pipe organ was added during the pastorate of Dr. Newhall. The Young People's Christian League was organized during the SOUVENIR HISTORY. pastorate of Rev. George H. Bates, 1888-90. This became later Chap- ter 694 of the Epworth League. This church was called "Norwich South," 1834-37; "Landing," 1837-55; "East Main Street," 1855-58; 'Main Street," 1853, and "East Main Street," 1870-95. 1834- 1835-36. 1837- 1838. 1839-40. 1841-42. 1843-44. 1845-46. 1847-48. 1849-50. 1851-52. 1855- 1856-57- 1858. 1859-60. 1861. D. N. Bentley G. May W. Livesey A. U. Swinerton D. N. Bentley G. F. Pool S. Benton R. Livesey F. Gavitt J. Howson J. Lovejoy G. M. Carpenter J. D. Butler M. Chase G. W. Brewster J. B. Gould F. Upham E. B. Bradford PASTORS. 1862-63. 1864-65. 1866. 1866-69. 1870. 1871. 1872-73. 1874. 1875- 1876. 1877-78. 1879-81. 1882-84. 1885-87. 1888-90. 1891-93. 1894. E. F. Clark H. W. Conant J. D. Weeks E. J. Haynes F. H. Newhall A. P. Palmer A. Anderson S. O. Benton William Kellogg G. N. Kellogg G. A. Morse E. M. Taylor C. W. Holden T. Simms G. H. Bates J. H. Allen W. I. Ward COSTELLO LIPPITT, Sunday School Superintendent. ROBERT P. FERGUSON, Epworth League President. III. THE CENTRAL CHURCH. This church found its origin in the summer of 1854, when some if the brethren connected with the East Main Street Church, then n6 SOUVENIR HISTORY. under the pastorate of Rev. James D. Butler, obtained the consent of said church and pastor to procure a place to hold services in the west portion of the city. A large room on Central Wharf was accordingly secured, fitted up, and was dedicated as a temporary place of worship September 26, 1854, Rev. Robert M. Hatfield preaching the sermon. This project was begun in response to the desires of some for a" free seated place of worship in the city, and also for a separate church interest on the west side of the river. This movement was formally endorsed by the Quarterly Conference of the East Main Street Church September 29, 1854, and Messrs. Alvan C. Currier, Ulysses S. Gardner, John M. Brewer, David H. Seaman, Henry W. Leach and William B. Lewis were appointed to act as stewards of the thus newly created church. At a meeting of the Official Board August 31, 1857, action was CENTRAL CHURCH. taken authorizing the purchase of a lot on the south side of Main street, then belonging to the Main Street Congregational Church. Upon this lot a new church building was erected, although serious reverses threatened its abandonment when only half done. However, a timely donation from Rev. David N. Bentley and his wife, Mrs. Betsey Bentley, who each gave one thousand dollars, and the fact that Mr. Bentley supplied the pulpit for one year free of charge, relieved the distress, and the new church was dedicated August 3, 1859, during the pastorate of Rev. Robert Parsons, the sermon being by Rev. Dr. Ray- mond, then of Wilbraham. A heavy debt remained upon the property until 1866, when by a mighty effort it was totally cleared. A parsonage was built on Thames street during the pastorate of SOUVENIR HISTORY. 117 Rev. M. P. Alderman, 1867-68, and the free seat system gave way to pew rentals by consent of the original donors of the property at that time. A pipe organ was added during the pastorate of Rev. H. Mont- gomery, 1877-79. The lighting facilities were greatly improved by addition of a large centre chandelier in the auditorium during the pastorate of Rev., J. Hollingshead, 1886-88. This church was always noted for the spiritual life manifest in its associations, but special results were manifest during the pastorates of C. H. Payne, M. P. Alderman, M. Howard, H. Montgomery, E. Tinker and O. W. Scott. A Church Lyceum for the special literary improvement of the young people was organized and maintained with much interest during the pastorate of Rev. F. L. Hayward, and later during the pastorate of Rev. O. W. Scott this was reorganized as Chapter 6974 of the Epworth League. During Mr. Scott's pastorate the parsonage on another street, now in use by Trinity Church, was purchased. This church was known as "Bethel" in 1854; "West Main Street," 8; "Free," 1858-68, and "Central" after 1868. 1854. 1854-55- 1855. 1856-57. 1858. 18^9-60. 1861-62. 1863^65. (866. 1867-68. 1869-70. L M. Bidwell C. R. Wilkins C. H. Pavne L. D. Bentley F. Gavitt R. Parsons C. Banning N. G. Lippitt Barter M. P. Alderman E. McChesney PASTORS. 1871. 1872-73. 1874-76. 1877-79. 1880. 1881-83. 1884-85. 1886-88. 1889-90. 1891-92. 1893-94. W. T. Worth W. V. Morrison M. Howard H. Montgomery E. F. Jones E. Tinker F. K. Stratton J. Hollingshead F. L. Hayward O. W. Scott A. W. Kingsley TRINITY M. E. CHURCH, NORWICH, CONN. The consolidation of the three churches whose history has thus been outlined was effected in April, 1895, under the administration of E. Tirrell, Presiding Elder, to whose efforts is largely due this event, he being strongly seconded in the matter by the three pastors, viz., F. L. Streeter, W. I. Ward and A. W. Kingsley. The advocates of consolidation held that by a union and concentration of forces into one organization a strong church might be developed, which would stand as a tower of strength in extending the influence of Methodism in this community. On the other hand, its opponents held it to be a move- ng SOl'l'ENIR HISTORY. ment in the wrong direction, destined to contract the general influence and power of Methodism in the vicinity. The opposition to this movement prevented its success in 1891, but gradually lost strength until early in 1895, the Quarterly Confer- ences severally and jointly approved a plan of union upon which they based a request to Bishop John M. Walden, the Presiding Bishop, to consolidate by Episcopal authority the three named churches into one church, to be served by one pastor. This request was granted at the Conference session held in April at Providence, R. I., and Rev. John L. Pitner was appointed to fill this important position. The former Central Church property being the best suited for the use of the united church, it was so appropriated. The former East Main Street Church was sold, and has been remodelled, and is now used for stores and club rooms by the owner. It was with much sadness the former members of this church parted with their house of worship, but the sacrifice was made by them with great unanimity in the belief that it would result in the highest good ultimately. The pipe organ in the Central Church was sold, and the organ formerly used by East Main Street Church was substituted early in the year. The Epworth League Chapters were early united, and form what continues as Chapter 694. The pulpit furniture from the East Main Street Church was placed in the vestry of the church, and the church has been improved by new furnaces and back extensions to the pews. The benevolent collections show a marked increase over the com- bined collections of the former three churches. Whether or not this church is to become the strong and influential body which lived in the minds of its founders will rest upon the faith- fulness and loyalty of its members and future developments, to which may God lend the guiding hand of wisdom. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Pastor Rev. John L. Pitner, Ph. D. Local Preachers Albert F. Park, Irving V. Cobleigh, Clinton E. Bromley and Robert E. Harned. Class Leaders Henry Silcox and Samuel Ferguson. Trustees Costello Lippitt, John C. Morgan, C. L. Harwood, . H. Allen, Dr. J. H. Allen, H. B. Porter, C. E. Bromley, G. A. Lewis and A. S. Barbour. Stewards F. H. Allen, H. B. Porter, C. L. Hopkins (R. S.), O. H. Bennett, D. H. Purvis, C. L. Harwood, J. M. Young, A. Tro- land, J. F. Hewlett (D. S.), J. Holden, N. V. Porter and J. H. Harned. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 119 Sunday School Superintendent, Costello Lippitt; Secretary. James M. Parkinson. Eptvorth League President, Robert P. Ferguson; Secretary. James M. Parkinson. M. E. CHURCH, HOCKANUM, CONN. The commencement of the meetings of the Methodists were held about 1820 at the old brick schoolhouse on the old road, now called High street, just opposite Louis Dush's house, about three-quarters of a mile from where the church now stands. Preachers came from Hartford, among whom were Messrs. Gilbert and Rogers, Geo. May, E. Chapin and others; when these were not here the place was supplied by one Mr. Baker, a li- censed exhorter, who lived on Wei- don lane, a shoemaker by trade. A society was soon formed, composed of people from East Hartford, Wil- low Brook, Silver Lane, Glaston- bury, Pratt's Ferry (then called). The names of some of those who were converted and joined the soci- ety were: Elihu Risley and wife, Pardon Risley and wife, Franklin Pebbles and wife, Emeline Ris- ley, Emily Porter, Elizabeth Goodman, Mrs. Ormon Roberts, Mrs. Eliza Lester, Mr. Eli Wright and wife, Mrs. Ault, also Abner Hills, Horace Cheeney, Mr. Abel Clark, Ralph Hills and wife, Roderic Fowler and many others that I cannot now recall. Baptisms by im- mersion were then performed in the stream of water near the school- house at flood tide; many of the candidates were baptized by Rev. George May. About 1824 they began to talk of building a church, and most of the people favored it, and many who professed no religion were friendly to the project. Those who could not give their money turned out with their teams and worked heartily to see the church built. It was finished and dedicated by Rev. Heman Bangs in 1838. Then began revivals; Rev. Mr. Rogers often preached, and was succeeded by other preachers; the names of some of them were as follows: Mr. Guile, Father Walker, Mr. Pearce and many others, all of whom were godly men. During those times there were powerful THE HOCKAXUM CHURCH. 120 SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. revivals, in which large numbers of useful men and women were brought in, such men as Epaphrus Roberts, Ira Hills, James Case, Toel Hills, Ellsworth Brewer, Edwin Brewer, Miss Sarah Jones, the Misses Lemira and Adeline Porter and many more; among the num- ber of men who came later was one Henry Wright, a very spiritual man who seemed at times to be almost inspired. At one time during the morning service he suddenly left the church and walked nearly a mile to a house where there were four men seated at a table playing cards ; he walked to the door and exclaimed: "The Day of Judgment is coming!" then came back and took his seat as if nothing had hap- pened. Some of those men were so wrought upon that they after- wards became converted. This was related to me by one of the men who was seated at the table. At other times Mr. Wright would rise suddenly and utter a few burning words, the preacher would stop his discourse for a moment or two, then proceed without being disturbed in the least. The Methodists at that time suffered persecution and ridicule, being looked upon as fanatics. At one time a man of wealth and influence, who lived in Glastonbury, was bit- terly opposed to the Metho- dists, but was prevailed upon to attend a camp-meeting that was in session in the town ; so he thought he would harness his horse and go out for an hour or so. It happened that the preacher who was preaching at that time was one of the sons of thunder and was in the spirit, and preaching to the unconverted. This man who was opposed to the Methodists sat and listened attentively, and when the sermon was concluded exclaimed: "Oh! Oh! how mistaken I have been all my life with regard to these people; if there is a class of people that have got the true power and spirit of the Gospel, they are the ones." But notwithstanding all the persecution and ridicule, the Methodists grew and prospered. They were plain in dress and manners, honest and sincere. Many of them were original, keen and witty. I can remember many of their sayings and doings. I remember that once in an evening meeting an old sister arose and said that some one said to her that "you Methodists don't use good language." "We use the language of the Bible," said she, "and that is as high as heaven." An THE HOCKANUM PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 121 old brother, who used to get very happy and shout, was expostulated with by a very cultivated person for being so noisy and uncouth in church. The old brother replied that it was a great calamity to be born with velvet ears, to hear something soft and flute-like. There was a man by the name of Spencer, who was a great worker and a peculiar character; he conducted meetings in Burnside, Hockanum, Manchester and other places. It was said of him that a number of societies and churches sprung out of his untiring labors; he used to exhort in groves, schoolhouses or any place that would hold a congregation. He was conducting a meeting once in a grove in Hockanum, and some young men thought that they would go to make sport, but when they arrived at the meeting Father Spencer JAMES A. WOOD, PASTOR. REV. JAMES A. WOOD. MRS. JAMES A. WOOD. was at prayer. One of them said to me afterwards that there was 'such power in that prayer that it totally disarmed them, for he was talking with God. It devolved upon Father Spencer when there had been preaching to take up the collection, usually with his hat, which was rather a poor one. So some young men thought they would vex the old gentleman by throwing a quantity of those old copper cents into the hat, and when the hat came around they threw forty of them in one lump, when down came the hat and out came the crown; but the old gentleman instead of being vexed, stooped down to gather it up exclaiming "Bless the Lord; what liberal young men." I do not relate these sayings to create merriment, but simply to show the characteristics of those people and times. A person remarked to me quite a number of years ago that this church would never run out; it might run low, but would always 122 SOUVENIR HISTORY. J. P. KENNEY, remain, for it is consecrated ground, watered by the prayers and tears- of those old saints. It is painful to hear those old times or people spoken of lightly, as we are indebted to them for our present prosper- ity. Father May used to lead the singing, which was congregational, a few singers sat in front pews to control the rest; many of the tunes were in the minor key; such tunes as Florida, North Salem, Xew Durham, would make the people weep, while Exhortation, Northfield, Turner and others of like character, would make the eyes of the congregation sparkle. People would walk two or three miles to get to those meetings, there was v such power and attraction in them. ^^^ ^^^^^ But in later years a great number ^^6*7*^1 ^^^ have joined the church. I can do no f ' &" 1 , justice to the subject by giving the names, there were such numbers. I can give only a few of the names of those who came later. Such names as Frederic and Wealthy Curtis. Lewis Jones, William Jones, Wil- liam Avery, Roswell Treat and wife, Andrew Vibert, Cyrus Vibert and others too numerous to mention. But they have all gone home to their reward; both singers and people have gone to join in the swelling- anthems of eternity. There was a notable revival in 1858, when Charles Morse was pastor; many were converted and added to the church. Among the converts of this revival was Rev. B. F. Raynor of this Conference, in 1 88 1 Walter P. Stoddard was sent to this charge. He conceived the plan to remodel the church building; little had been done to it since it was first built in 1838. He set about the task, and at a cost of over $3,000 remodeled the building, giving to the people a neat, pretty, modern church. E. J. Ayers followed Mr. Stoddard; he stayed two years and had quite a revival; twenty-eight joined the church on probation. Under the present pastorate of Rev. James A. Wood, who is no\v on his fifth year, the church has enjoyed an unusual degree of pros- perity. About $700 has been expended on improving the property. The parsonage has been remodeled inside and an L built on. In 1895 the church enjoyed a great awakening, from which forty-one joined the church on probation. In the spring of 1896 a new work SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. 123 10 0"OV- \_J1H_ J..J/W /H .. 1839-41. Lozien Pierce I874-75- 1841-43. B. M. Walker 1875-76. 1845-47. Levi P. Daggett, Jr. 1876-77. 1847-49. John C. Goodrich 1877-80. 1849-51. B. C. Phelps 1880. 1852-54. John F. Sheffield 1854-55- Henry S. White 1881-84. 1855-57- S. W. Coggshall 1884-86. 1857-59- Charles Morse 1886-87. 1859-61. T. B. Gurney 1887-89. 1861-62. George W. Brewster 1889-90. 1862-64. George W. Wooding 1890-92. 1864-67. John Cooper 1892-93. 1867-70. G. H. Winchester 1893-98. was opened by Mr. Wood in East Hartford Centre, and continued through the year. So successful was the project that the Conference organized a new society May i, 1897. PASTORS. William Turkington J. O. Dodge Charles S. Morse A. A. Presbrey Merrick Ransom Zadoc S. Haynes (Died in 1880) Walter P. Stoddard E. J. Ayers Denison L. Brown Virgil W. Mattoon John Livesey J. B. Ackley R. S. Eldridge James A. Wood PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stewards Chauncey Hollister, E. Sumner Forbes, Monroe J. Brewer, Eugene Burr, W. Henry Waterman, Frank A. Graham, Geo. Ludwig, Edward G. Weldon, John P. Kenney (R. S. and D. S.), Frank F. Hollister. Trustees Chauncey Hollister, Monroe J. Brewer, E. Sumner Forbes, William H. Myers, W. Henry Waterman, John P. Kenney. Class Leader E. Sumner Forbes. Sunday School Superintendent, John P. Kenney; Assistant Su- perintendent, M. S. Brewer; Secretary, Edward G. Weldon; Treasurer, George A. Hollister; Librarian, Frank A. Graham; Recorder, Harriet G. Hollister. Epworth League President, John P. Kenney; First Vice Presi- dent, Alice Daniels; Second Vice President, Lizzie Taylor; Third Vice President, Kate Dunham; Secretary, Edward G. Weldon; Treasurer, Albert Kawalsky; Organist, Kate L. Dunham. Ladies' Aid Society President, Mrs. W. H. Waterman; Vice President, Mrs. Lucy Fox; Secretary, Mrs. Harry Anderson; Treas- urer, Mrs. E. G. Weldon. M. E. CHURCH, EAST HARTFORD, CONN. A class was started here in 1891 by J. H. Allen, then pastor of Burnside M. E. Church. A separate society was organized by Eben Tirrell. P. E.. in 1893. when John S. Bridgeford was pastor at Burn- side; and it appears in the Conference Year Book as Burnside and East Hartford. After this it went down, and all the members joined the First M. E. Church in Hartford, where Dr. E. L. Thorpe was pastor at the time. In April, 1896, Rev. James A. Wood, then pastor at Hockanum M. E. Church, opened meetings in Raymond Hall, and so successful was the undertaking that a new organiza- tion was completed by Rev. George H. Bates, P. E., May i, 1897, and Mr. Wood was appointed a supply. The society has purchased a build- ing lot and contemplates a new church building in the near future. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Class Leaders E. Sunnier Forbes and Mrs. Ellen Clark. Stewards M. W. Stillman (R. S.), Mrs. Dora J. Stillman, Mrs. Ellen Clark, Joseph M. Bosworth. Trustees George Saunders, A. R. Davie, Mark W. Stillman. Sunday School Superintendent, Mrs. J. M. Bosworth. GEORGE SAUNDERS. President Board Trustees. MARK W. STILLMAN. Recording Steward. MRS. J. M. BOSWORTH, Sunday School Superintendent. M. E. CHURCH, OLD MYSTIC, CONN. John Richard Green in his smaller "History of England," says, in regard to Lollard ry, that "It was this want of organization, this looseness and fluidity of the new movement that made it penetrate through every class of society." Methodism was strong in organiza- tion, perhaps, but it had the latter characterization of "fluidity" which penetrates. It penetrated Old Mystic, then called Mystic, in 1816. The liv- ing channels which conveyed the pen- etrative doctrines of Methodism were the Revs. Ebenezer Blake and Joel McKee. They preached in an old schoolhouse. Lorenzo Dow, that re- ligious comet, used occasionally to flash the light of the Gospel upon this village. He came and went at regular intervals, making his appointments a twelve-month ahead, and appear- ing exactly at the moment set. In the year 1824 John Bennett opened his house for preaching. He went to Gale's Ferry, then at- tached to Norwich Circuit, to solicit the services of the itinerants. The Revs. Elias Marble and Reuben Ransom responded, and for two years visited and preached in the village. A class was formed, com- posed - of seven members. The church received the Rev. Newell Spaulding as its first pastor in 1826. He lived and preached in the house of John Bennett for a year. In 1827 the Hyde family, the practical owners of the cotton mills, opened heart and home for the Methodist preacher and his doctrines. This was a great event in the history OLD MYSTIC CHURCH. LD MYSTIC PARSONAGE. both of the Hyde family and the church. A schoolhouse was again opened. During the ministry of Mr. Spaulding sixty people were brought to Christ, some of them joining the Baptist and Congrega- 126 SOU I' EN I R HISTORY tional Churches of the village. The first Quarterly Conference was held in 1828. The Rev. Edward Hyde, a distant member of the Hyde family, was the Presiding Elder. In 1831 the Rev. Daniel Dorchester REV. JOSEPH COOPER. MRS. JOSEPH COOPER. was appointed to the Mystic Circuit, which at that time included Gris- wold, Preston and North Stonington. No less than 70 people were converted during his two years of labor. In 1833 Mystic and Mystic HORACE WILLIAMS, Sunday School Superintendent. MRS. ABBIE DEWEY, 2d. Vice-Pres. E. L. P ridge were set apart as a "circuit" by themselves. Under the min- istry of the Rev. Benjamin Phelps, which began in 1843, tne new cir ~ cuit greatly prospered. Nearly 70 were converted, and every part of SOUVENIR HISTORY. 127 the work was strengthened. From this revival two young men went forth to the ministry of the Word, viz., the Revs. James Gallup and W. P. Hyde. The first church building that was erected to shelter this growing society was finished in 1849 at tne vei 7 modest cost of $1,800. The Rev. Daniel Wise preached the opening sermons. One of his texts, remembered to this day, was, "For a day in Thy courts is better than a thousand." In 1851, while the society was in the midst of a grand revival, under the genial leadership of the Rev. William Turk- ington, this building was burned to the ground. God's providences are mysterious, yet their results always vindicate His goodness. A new and better church was erected in the centre of the village, which the society occupies to-day. In 1859 the light flashed eight miles across the country to Westerly, which reports for that year a member- ship of thirty. In 1863 the parsonage was purchased and its grounds laid out. General success has attended this church from its birth. At its Jubilee in 1876 it was reported that 500 people had been con- verted since its foundation. Since then no have been received into probation. The population, like all New England villages, is in a state of transition. Poles, Frenchmen and Jews fill the mills and the homes and narrow the margin of the English-speaking work. Faithful toil is, however, still needed and still successful. The church is living in obe- dience to the words of the poet, "Go labor on, spend and be spent Our joy to do the Master's will." JAMES A. DEAN (Deceased). PASTORS. 1816. 1824. 1826. 1829. 1830. 1831. 1*33. 1834. 1836. 1*37- 1838. 1839. 1841. 1843- Ebenezer Blake Joel McKee Elias Marble Reuben Ransom Newell S. Spaulding Amos Binney Joseph Ireson Daniel Dorchester Otis Wild Heman Perry John Standish Benjamin C. Phelps S. Heath Pardon T. Kenney Freeman Nutting Nathan Paine John W. Case William Simmonds Lawton Cadv 128 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1844. Lorenzo W. Blood 1867. John Lovejoy 1846. Marvin Leffingwell 1869. John Cooper 1847. John Cooper 187.?. Samuel E. Evans 1849. George W. Brewster 1874. W. McK. Bray 1850. William Turkington 1876. J. Q. Adams 1852. Levi Daggett iS;&. William B. Heath 1855. Daniel Dorchester 1881. Denison L. Brown i56. John F. Sheffield 1883. Elijah F. Smith 1^58. Ormando Brooks 1885. F. L. Hayward 1859. Edwin S. Stanley 1887. J. W. Presby iS(.i. Caleb S. Sanford 1889. G. H. Lamson 1862 James A. Dean, D. D. 1891. W. S. Foster 1863. C. A. Merrill 1893. John Pearce 1865. S. A. Windsor l &95- Joseph Cooper PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Dr. Francis Manning, Horace Williams, William Har- ris, Prentice Williams, William Tourgee, Dr. Alfred Chapman, Martin White, Elijah Morgan, Dwight Gallup. Stewards Dwight Gallup, Dr. Alfred Chapman, Dr. Francis Manning, Horace Williams, Elijah Morgan, William Tourgee, Pren- tice Williams (D. S.), Martin White (R. S.), Eli Boothman, George Melville, Benjamin Lewis. Sunday School Superintendent, Horace O. Williams; Assistant Superintendent, Mary Dean; Secretary, Louise Harris; Treasurer, Jane Dean; Librarian, Hugh Fraser. Teachers Pastor D. Gallup, Mary Dean, Abbie Dewey, Annie Williams, Annie Lee, Lucy Main, George Melville, Nelly Robinson, Margaret Boothman. Epworth League President, the Pastor; First Vice-President, Mary Dean; Second Vice President, Abbie Dewey; Third Vice Presi- dent, Lucy Chapman ; Fourth Vice President, S. Annie Williams ; Sec- retary, Maude Chapman; Treasurer, Margaret Boothman. M. E. CHURCH, ONECO, CONN. This church is situated in the pleasant valley village of Oneco, town of Sterling, Conn. In October, 1886, Mrs. Alice Hayner came to Oneco and organized a Sabbath School and a prayer meeting, and requested a pastor from the Conference. Previous to this time occa- sional preaching services were held by the Baptist minister in the schoolhouse. In 1888 Sherman W. Thompson, a student at East Greenwich Academy, was appointed by Presiding Elder Jordan to supply at Oneco. At this time the church was organized by Rev. D. A. Jordan, with six members, namely: Justus D. Hayner, John Jerne, William ONECO CHURCH AND PARSONAGE. Brown, Mrs. Alice Hayner, Miss Grace Langdon, Miss Maggie Ster- ling and Mrs. Emma Bates, who rendered efficient service as Record- ing Steward. Meetings were held in a hall owned by Mr. Orrin Bates, who kindly gave the use of the hall free until a church building could be erected. A very pretty and convenient church building was erected in 1889, the Oneco Manufacturing Company donating the land and $1,250 toward?, the expenses. Great credit is due Mrs. Alice May Hayner for her untiring efforts at this time. The church, during the pastorate of Henry Cartledge, was dedi- cated, free of debt. While Joseph Jackson was pastor (1889) a nice, comfortable and convenient parsonage was built, and several people were added to the church. During the pastorate of E. F. Smith many improvements were made on the church property. 130 i888. 1889. 1889-90. 1891. SOUVENIR HISTORY. Charles Smith Henry Cartledge Joseph Jackson E. F. Smith PASTORS. 1892-93. ' 1894. 1895. W. A. Taylor E. J. Sampson W. A. Tavlor GEORGE S. NORTHRUP, Sunday School Superintendent. MRS. GEORGE S. NORTHRUP, Treasurer and Steward. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Thomas C. Peckham, Silas A. Waite, Justin Hayner, George S. Northrup, Herbert Gallup, Adin Mowry. Stewards Silas A. Waite, George S. Xorthrup, Adin Mowry, Alice Hurst, May G. Northrup, Alice Northrup, Ada Marriott. Sunday School Superintendent, George S. Northrup; Assistant, A.din Mowry; Organist, Miss Bertha Case; Secretary, Miss Bertha Case. Teachers William A. Taylor, Mrs. E. D. Taylor, Mrs. May G. Northrup, Mrs. Hattie Kenyon, Miss Flora Dawley, Mr. Adin Mowry. M. E. CHURCH, PASCOAG, CONN. The first recorded Methodist preaching in Burrillville was in 1810, by Elder Britt, who about that time erected the old Douglas Meeting- House. "Class meetings," says Horace Keach, the town historian, "had existed ever since the town had an existence." "Whatever changes of form it may have undergone," says the same historian, "the vital spirit and substance of Methodism has ever been present." In 1813 meetings were held in the Huntsville Emporium, at the place now known as the White Mill. There was preaching also at the house of Mr. Moab Paine. When the pres- ent Free Baptist Church was erect- ed in 1839, the Methodists for a while attended there. Some ten years after this Mr. George W. Marsh, a fervent Methodist, began business at the old mill, recently occupied by Mr. Joshua Perkins, at Laurel Hill. Mr. Marsh inau- gurated regular religious services at that place, which were held in the upper part of the stock house, destroyed by fire a few years ago. In 1846-47 John Cowen, the over- seer of the weave shop, preached every Sabbath. Mr. Cowen was from the Isle of Man, an enthusias- tic exhorter of the old-fashioned I kind, sincere and gifted, who often made the ungodly laugh by his rough and ready ways. He kept did a noble work. At this time THE PASCOAG CHURCH. up the congregation and and for many years after- ward, the Methodists often held religious and social gather- ings in Masonic Hall, now the residence of Mr. Edward Salis- bury, on Laurel Hill Avenue. In 1847 tne fi rst Methodist Church was built in Pascoag. While Mr. Cowen was minding his weaver's cloth in the old mill on week days, and caring for the souls across the road on Sundays, his employer, with the help of a few others, was building a more suitable sanctuary on the site of the pres- ent edifice. The "Old Church," as we now call it, cost about $3,000. Mr. George W. Marsh was the mainstay of the new society then formed, one of its first Treasurers, Trustees, Stewards and Class Lead- ers, a man of great integrity, public-spirited and generous the father of Pascoag Methodism. The Laurel Hill Methodist Church was 13-2 SOUVENIR HISTORY. formally organized in 1847, a little while before the dedication of the church. Its original Board of Trustees was composed of Simeon B. Marsh, James K. True, Livings Shumway and Samuel White Lintern. To this board, upon the evening of their organization, September 18, 1852, Mr. Marsh deeded the lot and church building at Laurel Hill, to be held in trust for the Methodist Episcopal Church. Thus the little vessel was launched upon the uncertainties of a long voyage. In the Spring of 1848 the first minister from Conference was sent to Burrillville, as the appointment was then called. There are no records preserved of the first two pastorates, except that at their close there were thirty-two members in full and eight pro- bationers. Under the spiritual leadership of Rev. George W. Wooding the membership increased to 128, the Sunday School went up from an average attendance of forty to that of seventy-five, and the number regularly attending class meetings was 65 per cent, of the whole mem- bership. Ninety were received on probation in Mr. Wooding's last year. ''He was a good man; his piety uniform, his devotion to his work consistent and his labors fruit- ful." Rev. E. A. Lyon followed Mr. Wooding, and kept the church up at the same spiritual high tide. Many were converted, much harmony pre- vailed; some still live among us who remember him with gratitude. His work here closed the opening chapter of Methodism. His salary, like that of his predecessors, was $440 a year. During the next few pastorates unexpected reverses, for which the preachers in charge were in no wise to blame, sadly reduced the church. In Rev. Charles Hammond's year, 1855, there was a general shutting down of work in Pascoag, which scattered the congregation. Mr. Marsh suffered from business embarrassment. In 1857 this leading supporter of the society passed to his reward. The year following the death of Mr. Marsh was a year of great dis- couragement to the people, because no minister was sent from Con- ference to Burrillville. It is recorded that year that fourteen different preachers occupied the pulpit. In 1859 business and religion both began to revive. Rev. S. S. Cummings was a great success. He sys- REV. B. J. AYRES. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 133 tematized the Sunday School organization and the different depart- ments of church work, and, most important of all, by an indefatigable canvass, in three States, lifted the debt of $800, which threatened the loss of the church property. Rev. Charles Morse, who came next, greatly profited the little flock in things spiritual and temporal. He was greatly beloved. Rev. Moses Chase, who came next, was stricken down at his post, dying in the church just as he was about to preach the centenary sermon, January 7, 1866. Mr. Ara Paine, resident local preacher, creditably filled out the Conference year. Rev. A. A. Pres- brey's two years, that came next, were years of hard work and of suc- cess. Several were soundly converted. It was in his second year that a parsonage was purchased of the late Mr. Edward Hill for $1,600. Many of his friends are still living, who have pleasant recollections of Mr. Presbrey. In 1868 Rev. S. S. Cummings was returned here for the second time, greatly to the satisfaction of the brethren. His work was begun with his accustomed zeal. In October the Official Board re- luctantly accepted his resignation, to take a position in connection with the Baldwin Place Home for Little Wanderers. Rev. B. K. Bosworth of Mapleville filled out the year. Mr. Pack in 1870 labored faithfully. Two of his children died here. In 1872 a new and permanent prosperity came to the church under the energetic efforts of Rev. William Kirkby, through whom old and young became very much interested in church affairs. Mr. Kirkby began the first of four very successful three-year pastorates, viz., those of Revs. Kirkby, Cady, Oldham and Patterson. During the first of these about $2,000 was expended in building a new and commodious vestry. Quite a number were also converted. In regard to Mr. Cady's work here, he has often made the remark, "The three happiest years of my life were spent in Pascoag." It is also true that the people, inside and outside of the church, look back to his stay among them with hardly less delight. Upwards of 100 new members w r ere added to the membership by Mr. Cady. Great improvement in the financial ability of the congregation and in all social and religious activities as well were enjoyed. The marked success of 1875-7 was followed up by the right man, Rev. John Oldham. Long may the day be postponed when his eulogy shall be finally written, but Pascoag already forestalls the verdict of their once popular pastor, of whom we may say : "None knew him but to love him, . None named him but to praise." Again, after a successful pastorate, came the right man in the right place, Rev. Samuel T. Patterson. Mr. Edson, after Mr. Patterson, was 134 SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. also of lasting benefit to the society, and built up the people by his solid sermons and by his kindly intercourse among them. Another and superior parsonage was at this time secured at an expense of $2,500. Rev. George M. Hamlen is well remembered for good ser- mons, genial sociability and wise business management. In 1889 Rev. Walter P. Stoddard began an earnest and laborious pastorate. The Sunday School and the Epworth League owe much of their fine organ- ization and interest to Mr. Stoddard. He also prepared the plans for the present church edifice, and solicited $4,200 towards its erection. He left the charge in the midst of his efforts to rebuild. Rev. Lewis B. Codding became pastor in November, 1891, and with the help of the faithful Building Committee, gave to the public a modern and pleasant place of worship. The Building Committee, who have made this chap- ter in Laurel Hill Methodism, is composed of O. T. Inman, Joshua Perkins, Esek R. Darling and Charles R. Kershaw. The church was dedicated in June, 1892, costing about $10,000, which \vas all provided for in pledges at the time of dedication. Rev. Eben Tirrell ably assist- ed in raising the funds. PASTORS. 1848. 1849-50. 1851-52- 1853-54. 1855- 1856-57- 1858. 1859. 1860-61. 1862-63. 1864. 1865. 1866-67. 1868. James B. Weeks George Burnham George W. Wooding Edward A. Lyon Charles Hammond Samuel Fox Supplied Jonathan Cady Silas S. Cummings Charles Morse J. E. Gifford Moses Chase A. A. Presbrey Silas Cummings 1869. J. C. Allen 1870. Jabez Pack 1872-74. William Kirkby 1875-77. Hopkins B. Cady 1878-80. John Oldham 1881-83. Samuel T. Patterson 1884-85. Edward Edson 1886. George M. Hamlen 1887-88. Samuel T. Patterson 1889-92. Walter P. Stoddard 1892. Lewis B. Codding 1893-95. Joseph Hollingshead 1896-97. E. J. Ay res PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees O. T. Inman, E. R. Darling, W. F. Slade, Arthur Dimery, Charles Kershaw, Andrew Luther, Samuel Mellor, Joshua Perkins and George A. Bacon. Stcivards O. T. Inman, E. R. Darling, Henry Bailey, James Car- penter, Alford Lewis, William Guy, Bert Whatley, Margaret Dorrity, Maria E. Salisbury (Treasurer) and Annie A. Wheeler. Sunday School Superintendent, Henry Bailey. Note. A large part of this history was taken from a sketch written by Rev. L. B. Codding. M. E. CHURCH, PORTLAND, CONN. In 1835, as nearly as can be ascertained, a Methodist class was or- ganized, bearing the name of Chatham class of the Chatham Circuit, New London District, and regular Methodist services were held in a small chapel built for the purpose, at a place familiarly spoken of as "Across the Meadows," now known as Rose Hill District, in the town of Portland. This was one of four preaching places on the old Chat- ham Circuit. At this early date Daniel Dorchester was Presiding Elder; Freeman Nutting and Amos Simpson, circuit preachers; Selden Cook, leader, and the class numbered twenty-five members. "In April, 1851, a few brethren and friends of Methodism who had formerly wor- shiped in the old church * * * in connection with others living in the vicinity of the quarries, and belonging to the Methodist Episco- pal Church in Midd'e'.own, request- ed of the Providence Conference the appointment of a preacher to this place. In compliance with this request, Rev. F. W. Bill was stationed here. Mr. Bill com- menced preaching in the Town House, which had been hired for that purpose, and succeeded in gathering a good congregation and regularly organizing a church by the union of the old Chatham class and about twenty members from the Methodist Episcopal Church at Middletown." Owing to family embarrassment , Mr Hill res'gned in September, and Rev. William Kellen supplied the remainder of the year. "Mr. Kellen labored with zeal, fidelity and success, and encouraged by the people, he suc- ceeded in raising quite a large subscription towards the erection of a new church." "In 1852 Mr. Kellen was succeeded by the appointment of Rev. A. H. Robinson, who labored earnestly for the consummation of the enterprise already commenced ; so that when I (the Rev. G. W. Wooding, from whose record the above extracts are taken) came to this place in April, 1853, the house was up and nearly finished. It was dedicated to the worship of Almighty God by Rev. Bishop O. C. Baker, July 27th, 1853, text Daniel, ii., 35." The accompanying pic- THE PORTLAND CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. ture represents the original and present edifice. During the pastorate of Rev. A. W. Seavey, in 1875, an excellent pipe organ was purchased and improvements made at an expense of $1,500. The audience room THE PORTLAND PARSONAGE. was thoroughly renovated at an expense of about $1,000 during the pastorate of Rev. Richard Povey. In 1876, A. W. Seavey pastor, a chapel was built on the church lot for the Sunday School and church gatherings. This, with furnishings, cost $1,000. In 1858 a parsonage was built on Church Street, Mr. Kellogg Strong being one of the prime movers in the enterprise. This house REV. E. W. GOODIER. MRS. E. W. GOODIER. was sold in 1892. In April, 1894, the commodious residence of O. W. was purchased. This fine property is valued at $4,000. Mr. Mack sale made a very generous donation to the church. 137 Revivals have never been of common occurrence in this church. But during the ministry of Mr. Seavey great awakenings occurred. As a result thirty were received "in full," December, '75, and thirty- M. W. GRIFFIN. Sunday School Superintendent. MRS. M. E. CADY. two in October, '76, and several recommended to other churches. Dur- ing the Spring of 1877 seventeen were received "on probation." Other pastors have been cheered by revival influences. July ist, 1894, the present pastor received fifteen "in full," the result of special o. w. MACK. SPENCER. services held during the Fall and Winter previous. Rev. William R. Rogers, after a brief ministry here of six months, died in September, 1886. Rev. Arthur X. Searles served the church with fidelity in 1891-2. SOUVENIR HISTORY. His health failed in the Spring of 1894. Returning here, after a pro- longed illness, "he fell asleep" February 12, 1895. He was buried in Trinity Cemetery, Portland, where a suitable monument has been erected to his memory. It would be most appropriate in closing this sketch to present the names of those who have carried the burdens and shared in the blessings of church fellowship, but the writer cannot do this with clue discrimination. I find two members who have left legacies to the church, Mrs. S. A. Crashaw, $200, the interest to be applied to the purchase of Sunday School books; Mrs. Jane M. Jackman about $400, which has been applied to the reducing of the debt on the parsonage. Of the original members of the church such as the Strongs, Hulburts, Kelseys and Macks, only the last is left to the church. It is noteworthy that Mr. O. W. Mack, at present one of the most active workers, was a member of the committee to secure a deed of the ground for the church build- ing, to solicit funds and the only surviving member of the Committee on Church Building. PASTORS. 1851. 1852. 1852. 1853-54. 1855-56. 1857- 1857. 1858-59. 1860. 1861-62. 1864-65. 1866-67. 1868-69. Frank W. Bill William Kellen A. H. Robinson G. W. Wooding Robert Parsons W. J. Foss W. J. Foss (Sept.-Apr.) Ira G. Bidwell Erastus Benton A. H. Wyatt L. W. Blood F. J. Wagner Richard Donkersley William O. Cady William H. Cook Benjamin Gill 1870-71. 1872. J 8/3. 1874-76. 1877-78. 1879. 1880-82. 1883-85. 1886. 1886. 1887-88. 1889-90. 1891-92. 1893-97. E. M. Anthony John Howson E. B. Bradford A. W. Seavey Walter Ela J. H. Nutting O. H. Fernald Richard Povey W. R. Rogers (Died in Sept.) W. S. Manship H. H. Martin J. W. Presbey A. N. Searles E. W. Goodier PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees O. W. Mack. Thomas Stewart, Osmer Fowler, Freder- ick Weir, W. G. Spencer, C. W. Hamilton, Dr. F. E. Potter, William Watrous, Titus Hale. StcuvrdsO. W. Mack, C. W. Hamilton, W r . G. Spencer, Osmer Fowler, Thomas Stewart, Frederick Weir, Edward Hale, E. L. Ells- worth, B. F. Millen, M. W. Griffin, Mrs. C. W. Hamilton, Mrs. William Watrous, Mrs. B. F. Millen. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 139 Sunday School M. W. Griffin, Superintendent; O. W. Mack, As- sistant; Miss Eva Hick, Secretary; Donald McKay, Librarian; Mrs. C. W. Hamilton, Treasurer. Teachers E. L. Ellsworth, Mrs. L. W. Moshier, Mrs. Carrie Reed, Mrs. C. W. Hamilton, Mrs. George Smith, Miss Mary Cramer, Mrs. William Albee, Miss Selena Hick, Mrs. Henry France, E. W. Goodier, Miss Lillian Hick, O. W. Mack. Epworth League Mrs. E. W. Goodier, President; Mrs. Henry France, First Vice-President; Miss Genie Ferguson, Second Vice- President; Mrs. Asaph Hale, Third Vice-President; E, W. Goodier, Fourth Vice-President; Miss Isabella Reed, Fifth Vice-President; Miss Lillian Hick, Sixth Vice-President. MRS. HARMONY GARDNER. Mrs. Harmony Gardner, wife of Rev. Abel Gardner, a deceased member of the New England Southern Conference, was a writer of wide reputation, both in prose and poetry. Her poetry was beauti- ful and often sublime. Her prose sparkled with wit and humor, and she herself was one of the most entertaining of women and a great favorite among literary people of her day. Dr. D. W. Clark, editor of The Repository, said of her: "She is one of our most talented and useful contributors." Among her principal prose works are "Glimpses of Our Lake Region," "Hetty; or, a Tale of the Revolu- tion," "Diary of a Country Pas- tor." In 1860 she \vas a constant contributor to the Ladies' Repository and to other papers. Our Conference may well be proud of her. Taber. MRS. HAPMONY GARDNER. M. E. CHURCH, PUTNAM, CONN. The Methodist Episcopal church in this place, as an organized body, dates back to June 28th, 1858. Prior to this time this was an evening preaching appointment supplied by the preacher in charge at West Thompson, and by local preachers. The services were held in schoolhomcs, in private houses, in the opca air and any place where the people could be gath- ered together, and finally in what was known as Morse's Hall. These meetings were sea- sons of great spiritual power. They were sustained by the Per- rins, Tourtelottes, Chandlers and others of sainted memory. Among the many places pointed to as spots where the heroes of THE BUTNAM PARSONAGE. , ,_. those early times used to pro- claim the word of life to friend and Joe, is the piece of ground where the new parsonage now stands. It was a deep ravine, with steep hills on either side, sloping to the east and \vest, and opening to the south. REV. JACOB BETTS. MRS. JACOB BETTS. The whole place was clothed with the forest primeval, while from the bottom of the ravine gushed a stream of pure water, making a most appropriate place from which to proclaim the message of free grace. Here the eccentric Lorenzo Dow, with the stump of a tree for his pul- pit, proclaimed the message of free salvation to throngs of people. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 141 This place for many years was called Dow Grove. In recent years the trees have been removed, the ravine partly filled and the whole plot made into building lots for the increasing population of this thriving young city. The street on the north side retains part of the old name, j. c. NICHOLS. J. L. INMAN. and is called Grove Street. Looking out from the study window to the southwest, across the Quinabog River, one of the first things to catch the eye is the spot where the old Perrin homestead stood, where many of the fathers of New England Methodism were most hospitably enter- tained. In the Winter of 1858 a great revival broke out, in which many were saved. This gave the cause new strength, so that on June 28th, 1858, Rev. L. B. Bates organized the church, at which time about thirty of the members of the West Thompson church removed their relationship to the church in this place. They at once began the erection of a house in which to worship. They continued to have preaching each Sabbath evening in the hall until their church was completed. It was dedi- cated December 3oth, 1858. Rev. L. B. Bates preached the dedicatory sermon. H. S. Ramsdell offered prayer and other brethren who were present participated in the exercises. The people took possession of the new house January ist, 1859. The land on which the church stands was deeded December 3d, 1858, by George C. Nightingale & Co. to the following-named Trustees: William Tourtellotte, Moses Chand- ler, Nathaniel Batty, Ashael Batty, Walter Burlingham, Isaac Pressey, and Martin Leach. Until the past year no suitable home has been provided for the pastor. 142 SOUVENIR HISTORY. In 1893 and 1894, under the leadership of Rev. E. F. Smith, lots were bought and paid for, and the foundation laid for church and par- sonage. On account of business depression the enterprise had to be abandoned until the past year. In the latter part of June, 1897, a con- tract was awarded to Charles E. Kelley for the building of a new parsonage. The work was well and quickly done, so that on the 1 3th of October it was completed. FRANK M. BENNETT, Epworth League President. E. C. WOOD. Sunday School Superintendent. PASTORS. Rev. L. B. Bates supplied the pulpit from the time of dedication to April ist, 1859. 1859-60. C. S. Sanford 1877-80. 1 860-6 1. W. H. Conant 1880-82. 1862-63. George W. Brewster 1882-84. 1864-65. James Mather 1884-85. 1865-66. John Loveiov 1886-87. 1867-68. Robert Clark 1888. 1869-70. L. D. Bentley 1889-92. 1871. J. S. Thomas 1892-94. 1872-73. A. N. Bodfish 1894-97. 1874-75. E. F. Jones 1897. 1876. H. H. Martin J. C. Gowan L. P. Causey James Tregaskis Walter P. Stoddard George H. Butler Shepherd F. Harriman Wilbur C. Newell E. F. Smith W. L. Hood J. Betts PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees D. G. Arnold, E. M. Foster, M. W. Bennett, A. Hough- ton, E. R. Wood, A. Battv, W. B. Stone, E. C. Wood. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 143 Stewards D. G. Arnold, E. M. Foster, M. W. Bennett, A. Houghton, E. R. Wood, A. Batty, W. B. Stone, E. C. W r ood, J. Cope- land, E. S. Wood, W. Wallen, J. Tubbs. Sunday School Superintendent, E. C. Wood; Assistant Superin- tendent, Daniel Cunningham; Secretary, Ernest Gilmore; Treasurer, Miss Etta Whiting; Choir Leader, John L. Inman; Organist, Miss Helen Benson. Epworth League Frank M. Bennett, President; Mrs. J. Betts, First Vice-President; Miss Anna Chaffee, Second Vice-President; Miss Emma Gleason, Third Vice-President; John L. Inman, Fourth Vice- President; Miss Jessie Nichols, Secretary; Miss Clara Reeves, Treas- urer. M. E. CHURCH, QUARRYVILLE, CONN. By Edgar A. Brownell. The first Methodist camp-meeting- held in New England was in Bolton, Conn., in the southeast part of the town, on land owned by Church Hutchins, and now owned by William B. Kingsbury, Esq. This old camp-ground is near Andover town line. Lorenzo Dow, a famous THE QUARRYVILLE CHURCH. Methodist minister, was the central figure, and large crowds from the surrounding country flocked to see and hear him. This meeting was held May 30 and 31, June i, 2 and 3, 1805. The country around was inhabited or densely settled by "Federal Presby- terians." There is a tradition that the Rev. George Colton of Bolton was strongly opposed to the meeting, as he felt it was an encroachment on his field. SO U I 'ENIR HIS TOR Y. Three camp-meetings have been held in Bolton since 1805, in the west part of the town, on land owned by Jabez L. White, to wit: 1836, 1838 and 1847, half a mile west of the "White Gate," on the South Manchester road, on land now owned by Dr. C. F. Sumner. REV. O. G. TERRY. MRS. O. G. TERRY. Methodist meetings were first held in 1823, at the house of Isaac Keeney, and in pleasant weather were held under the shade of trees in EDGAR A. BROWNELL. Epworth League President. AIRS. M. W. HOWARD. Sunday School Superintendent. the vicinity of what is known as Quarryville, sometimes under a large elm tree, near the late Isaac Keeney's residence. The first meeting-house was built in 1834, and stood near the site of the present one, and was sold to the Universalist Society in 1851-2, SOUVENIR HISTORY. 145 and removed about eighty rods west. The present meeting-house was built in 1852, and cost between $3,000 and $4,000, and has never been without a minister and a fair congregation. Some years since the Rev. James S. Thomas, then stationed here, thought the society needed a church bell and a barn. He procured the same, and then set at work to pay for them. During his pastorate here special services were held and a great revival took place, "and the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved," many of whom are at present members in the church. Rev. E. J. Ayers suc- ceeded Mr. Thomas, and under his management the church grew strong day by day, and some fifty members were added during his pas- torate here. He was much beloved by all. He also during this time raised between $2,700 and $2,800 for church purposes. His work in the financial interest of the church has never been equaled. There have been in all fifty-nine preachers stationed here since 1823. The name Bolton was first used in 1836, and Rev. Lozien Pierce was the stationed preacher. Before this date the circuit was known as Tolland, Tolland and Mansfield, and in 1832 as Mansfield and Willi- mantic. From 1837 until 1840 the station was known as Tolland and Bolton. In 1840 it became known as Bolton Station, and Rev. Lorin C. Collins was the preacher. It was called Quarryville in 1849, J onn W. Case being the preacher, and it has so appeared in the minutes since that date. PASTORS. 1823. Joseph Ireson 1831. John W. Case 1824. Seth Cogswell 1832. 1825. Moses Fifield Benjamin F. Lambord 1833. Elisha Frink 1825-26. Leonard Griffin ^34. 1827. E. Otis R. Spaulding 1828. Heman Perry I &35. George Stone Hezekiah Ramsdell 1836. 1829. Paul Townsend Horace Moulton 1837. John W. Case 1830. Paul Townsend 1838. John E. Risley (The above named 1839. preachers were on Tol- 1840. land circuit and in- 1841-42. eluded Bolton.) 1843-44. Edmund M. Beebe George May Henry Mayo J. E. Risley Samuel Heath Windsor Ward Samuel Heath Ziba Loveland Elisha B. Bradford Benjamin M. Walker William Willcott Benjamin W r alke>r Lozien Pierce Lozien Pierce Edmund A. Standish Benjamin C. Phelps Moses Palmer Windsor Ward Lorin C. Collins C. D. Rogers Richard Donkersley 146 1845-46. 1846-47- 1848-49- SOUVENIR HISTORY. .1851-52. 1*53-54- 1855-56. 1857-58- 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-64. 1865-67. 1868-69. 1870. 1871. Abram Hoi way 1872-73. George S. Judd 1874. J. W. Case I875-77- E. A. Standish 1877 '-79. H W. Conant 1 880-81. L. W. Blood 1882-83. T. B. Gurney 1884-85. Warren Emerson 1886-87. William Turkington 1888. W. S. Simmons 1889. Walter Ela 1890. William Turkington 1891-93. Jabez Pack 1 894-95- B. M. Walker 1896. D.G.Ashley 1897. John Lovejoy Heflin S. Smith James S. Thomas Edward J. Ayers Charles Hammond Nelson Goodrich W. C. Newell John H. Sherman W. M. Cleveland Benjamin F. Raynor N. M. Learned C. B. Bromley S. V. B. Cross Thomas C. Denman O. G. Terry PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stewards Marvin K. Clark (R. S.), E. R. Chappell, K. S. Usher, Francis Risley, H. Greeley Royal, Mrs. M. A. Long, Mrs. S. E. Rose, Mrs. M. W. Howard, Miss Hattie Barrows, Miss Ellen S. Clark, Thomas Finnegan, Edgar A. Brownell (D. S.). M. E. CHURCH, ROCKVILLE, CONN. The first preaching by the Methodists in Rockville was in 1833. The village was small and had no meeting-house or church organiza- tion. All religious services were held either in private houses or in a small schoolhouse on West Street. In 1834, the preachers on Tol- land and Stafford circuit, Revs. Stephen Gushing, Ezra Withey and Lozien Pierce, held meetings in the place, and in the Autumn formed a class of four persons. From this time till 1840 local preachers from Norwich and Hartford supplied preaching, when Benjamin M. Walker and Caleb D. Rogers were appointed to Vernon, the town in which Rockville is situated; the latter name was not given the appoint- THB ROCKVILLE CHURCH. ment till 1844. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 147 A lot of land having been donated, a church was erected and dedi- cated in May, 1847. From this time the place became a station occu- pied by a preacher with a family. A Sunday School was now organized and a choir formed. In the Winter of 1854 the church edifice was burned. The chapel of the First Congregational Church was offered and for some months was used for services until the building erected on Main Street by the Baptists was purchased. This served the society until 1866, when more ample accommodations became desirable. One of the most eligible sites in the city was secured on Park Square and a fine brick edifice THE ROCKVILKE PARSONAGE. erected at a cost of $56,000. After dedication a debt of $38,000 re- mained on the property. The sale of a considerable part of the land and the banking rooms in the front of the building reduced the indebt- edness to $10,000. The interest accumulated, and in 1885 the whole debt amounted to $26,000. At this date Rev. J. H. James became pas- tor. Under his efficient management the whole obligation was can- celled. Messrs. Cyrus White and Lewis A. Corbin subscribed an amount considerably in excess of the accumulated interest, and other members of the church and friends outside gave liberally. The aid rendered by the Congregational churches of the city was very gen- erous. Many able and faithful men have served the church as preachers. Frequent revivals have occurred, some of which have been of unusual power and extent, notably those during the pastorates of Revs. H. H. Martin and G. W. Miller. A union service one Sunday evening each month among the Bap- tist, Congregationalist and Methodist churches was begun in 1875 and has continued with good results till the present time. 148 SOUYEN1R HISTORY. The annual Conference was held with this church in 1885, and was productive of much good in the community. During the pastorate of Rev. N. G. Axtell in 1878-9, a society was formed to accumulate a fund for a parsonage. During the pastorate of Rev. O. W. Scott, a house was purchased on Union Street. The mortgage debt on this property had been gradually reduced until in December, 1897, only $800 remained to be paid. By a well planned and persistent effort this was raised by subscription, and in January, 1898, this very fine property was turned over to the Trustees of the church by the Parsonage Society free from all incumbrance. A chapter of the Epworth League was organized during the pas- torate of Rev. O. W. Scott which has done good work in all depart- ments. It now enrolls one hundred and twenty-eight members. The -, church membership is two hundred and ninety-one full members and seventeen probationers.. The Sun- day-school numbers two hundred a;ul ninety-eight. REV. W. J. YATKS. MRS. MATTIE B. YATES. The sittings in the church are free at all services and the current expenses are met by weekly offerings and subscriptions. All salaries are paid promptly by checks the first of each month. The total con- tributions for all purposes amount to a little less than $3,500 per annum, of which sum a little less than $450 is for benevolent causes. PASTORS. 1834. Stephen Gushing Ezra Withey Lozien Pierce 1836. Henry Torbush Windsor Ward Edmund A. Standish Elam Chaplin SOUVENIR HISTORY. 149 1838. Elam Chaplin 1840. Benjamin M. Walker Caleb D. Rogers 1841. L. Leffingwell L. W. Blood E. A. Standish 1842. Lanson B. Clark Warren Emerson 1843. R alph W. Allen, Presid- ing Elder JOHN W. FORREST. Epworth I^eagne President. 1844-45- A - F - Park B. M. Walker 1846. Henry Torbush John B. Gould 1847. William W. Kurd 1848-49. Anthony Palmer 1850. Lorenzo W. Blood 1851-52. W. S. Simmons 1853-54. George W. Brewster 1855. W. O. Cady I 857 58. George W. Wooding 1859. Charles Morse 1860. Caleb S. Sanford i86r-6i. Robert Parsons 1863-64. John Lovejoy 1865-66. Erastus Benton 1867-69. John W. Willett 1870-71. Edward H. Hatfield 1872. Shadrach Leader '873-75. Henry H. Martin 1876-77. George W. Miller 1878-79. Nathan G. Axtell 1880-82. Richard Povey 1883. Oliver H. Fernald 1884. George W. Brewster .1885-87. Joseph H. James 1888-90. Orange W. Scott 1891-94. George H. Bates 1 895-97. Walter J. Yates PRESENT OFFICIARY. Sunday School Board Superintendent, the Pastor; First Assist- ant, Mrs. Hannah Wilson; Second Assistant, Miss Rosa G. Weston; Secretary and Treasurer, E. G. Berr; Librarian, F. C. Presbrey. Teachers Miss Grace Smith, Miss Edith Hunt, Miss Jennie Stur- geon, Miss Emma Hahn, Miss Mary Highland, Miss Ella Hiscox, Miss Etta Fitch, Miss A. N. Bulkely, Miss May Presbrey, Miss Cora Nichols, Miss Myrtie Presbrey, Miss Nellie A. Presbrey, Miss Flora Duncan, Mrs. C. T. Hunt, Mrs. A. R. Newell, Mrs. W. A. Metcalf, Mrs. Lina McPherson, Mrs. Louisa Wilson, Mr. Fred Hewitt, Mr. C. E. Harwood, Mr. A. B. Parker, Mr. S. S. Fitch, Mr. Asa Pettengill, R. F. Hahn, D. S. Presbrey, Lillie M. Marshman, Laura E. Gay. League Officers President, John W. Forrest; First Vice-President, Miss Emma Hahn; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. A. E. Waite; Treas- urer, F. C. Presbrey; Secretary, A. E. Waite. SOUVENIR HISTORY. Trustees Lewis A. Corbin, A. G. Jacobs, H. O. Keeney, A. B. Parker, J. A. Ogden, S. S. Fitch, J. McPherson. Stewards D. S. Presbrey (D. S.), Edward Waite, E. G. Berr (Treasurer), A. R. Newell, C. W. Bradley, F. C. Presbrey, C. A. Davis, F. E. Metcalf, J. Silcox, C. B. Reed, F. H. Presbrey, W. A. Metcalf (R. S.). A. B. Parker, Class Leader; J. H. James, Resident Member of Conference; A. E. Waite, Organist. M. E. CHURCH, SOUTH COVENTRY, CONN. The only source of information which we have been able to find concerning the beginning and first years of Methodism in this town is the work of one of her distinguished and most eccentric sons, the far-famed Lorenzo Dow, born about one mile from the present church, on South street, where an old well marks the spot, October 16, 1777. Dow was one of the converts, November 12, 1792, in the first meeting which was held for several days, the Rev. Hope Hull preach- ing the first Methodist sermon from the text, "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all accepta- tion, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." The next day the text was Jeremiah viii: 22, "Is there no balm in Gilead?" etc. From this revival a society was doubtless formed, as Dow speaks of having been re- ceived into "society" by G. Roberts, and of his first efforts at prayer and exhortation in "society," October and November respectively, 1/94. He mentions other meetings that were held from time to time, his own sufferings under a sense of a call to preach in 1795, and his being sent SOUTH COVENTRY CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. SOUTH COVENTRY PARSONAGE. "to the brethren for a few days," at Tolland, by "C. Spry, the circuit preacher, January 7, 1796." In 1799, having been away preaching, Lorenzo mentions his return to Coventry, holding several meetings and preaching the funeral sermon of "S. Parker, the Class Leader," August 4, 1799, who, he says, "died hap- py in the love of God." This seems to be sufficient evidence that, beginning with the re- vival under Hope Hull, Coventry became a regular appointment in the circuit, which also embraced Tolland village. Our author speaks also of having returned to Coventry in 1801, and again in 1802, when he held meetings. In 1814 and in 1817 he made visits home and held meetings, but makes no mention of "society" or circuit preachers after the death of S. Parker, the Class leader, 1799. So it seems that the work, though beginning well, after a few years ceased to be retained among the places for stated Methodist preaching, although there were doubtless members of the Methodist Church on the ground until the year 1822, when "Rouse Gardner, a young man from North Coventry," held meetings again in the town, "in the South Street schoolhouse," when many souls were converted. In 1823 "Father Bonner" and Joel McKee were preachers on the circuit, including Coventry, when the latter baptized 30 people in the lake. They were now denied the privilege of holding meetings in the schoolhouse, and fitted up an old store, where services were still held, on South street. Cyril Parker was made Class Leader. However, information is now lacking until, in 1827, when we find the "old stone meeting-house" converted into a "hat shop"; and in 1829 the work is again brought to light, and B. Moses Walker and Mr. Wolcott are the circuit preach- ers, and a revival is held in the "east schoolhouse," and Alanson Parker is made Class Leader. After this services were held in "the schoolhouse opposite the Green." From 1829 to 1838 there is no record that has not been supplied from memory. This being derived from conversation with aged parties, does not seem reliable. It ap- pears, however, that following Moses Walker and Mr. Wolcott, William Leonard, H. Torbush, Mr. Scott, A. Holloway, James Weeks, R. Don- kersley, Abel Gardner, Lawton Cady and N. Coyne served as pastors, SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. though in probably a different order from this, while some may have served whose names are not recalled. Gurleyville was connected under the same Quarterly Conference for a part of this time down to 1848. A few items of history are too important to be overlooked: ]. Revivals. As we have seen, the church was born in a revival in 1792; also, in 1822, the work was saved from extinction by another great revival, when at least 30 converts were baptized; also, in 1829, after seven years of persecution and conflicts, another revival in the East schoolhouse both strengthened the members and added new ones, amid sore persecutions. Rev. Horace Moulton (see Memoir of Eliza- beth Ann Moulton, p. 99, published in 1845, title "The Young Pastor's \Yife,") mentions having a wheel taken from his carriage in the time REV. C. A. PURDY. MRS. C. A. PURDY. of this revival, which was carried off. Again, in the pastorate of John F. Sheffield, 1848-49, another revival brought strength to the church and salvation to many souls. The next extensive revival occurred in the pastorate of G. W. Hunt, 1876-77. The Congregational Church, however, received most of the converts. The pastorate of W. W. Ellis, 1881-83, was a ^ so blessed with a union revival in which many were saved. Since that time, while souls have been saved, yet no deep and general revival has prevailed. 2. Material Improvements. After the "old stone meeting- house" the society had no house of worship of its own, until 1838, when a subscription was raised and a chapel erected at a cost of $1,206.91. Here the society flourished for some years. In 1866-67, under Mr. Cummings, the present church was erected, a quarter of a mile east of the old chapel, in the centre of the village, being dedi- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 153 cated July 17, 1867, by P. T. Kenney, Presiding Elder of the district. The present parsonage was built during the pastorate of Mr. Oldham, in 1875. In the time of Mr. Ellis, 1881-83, debts were paid to the amount of $1,709.47, a neat little barn was built, and money expended for repairs, furnishings, improvements, etc., to the amount of $229.60. The property is all now in good repair, and insured. The old chapel was bought by Mr. Dodge, pastor in 1879-80, converted into tene- ments, and is now used as a dwelling. PASTORS. 1848-49. John F. Sheffield 1850-51. Nahum Tainter 1852. Lyman Leffingwell 1853-54. B" M. Walker 1855. Ro>ger Albiston I8 5 6. 1857. 1858-59. ! 860. * ' l86l-62. l86 3 -65. . O^^ f _ John W. Case William Hurst D. Bradbury W. Phillips Lewis E. Dunham Nelson Goodrich SC* /""* . ** *^ & if PI 1 866-67. 1868. 1 869. 18/0-72. .873. [874. 1875. 1876-77. 1878. 1879-80. 1881-83. 1884-85 . b. Cummmgs II. S. Ramsdell James W. Fitch George DeB. Stoddard Mellen Howard A. A. Presbrey John Oldham G. W. Hunt E. F. Smith J. O. Dodge W. W. Ellis S V B Cross J. D. WILSON. Sunday School Superintendent. 1886. 1887-89. 1 890-0 1 . 1892-93. 1894-05. 1896. 1897. O. A. Farley Jr-hn Pearce M. T. Braley G. H. Lamson H. H. Martin L. H. Massey C. A. Purely PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees]. D. Wilson, President; H. N. Newell, Albert P. Woodworth, John H. Freeman, Alford Carr, D. W. Fisk, William Weaver. Stewards]. D. Wilson (R. S.), Charles Kolb (D. S.), A. Wood- worth, H. N. Newell, William Weaver, Gardner Reynolds, Sarah Wolfe, Emma Kolb, Charlotte Hodgson, Addie R. Hyde, Lemyra S. Smith, D. W. Fisk, F. L. Aldrich. Class Leader J. D. Wilson. 154 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Sunday School Superintendent, J. D. Wilson; Assistant Superin- tendent, Charles Kolb; Secretary, Mrs. L. A. Wilson; Librarian, Charles Lathrop. Teachers Pastor, H. N. Newell, A. R. Hyde, S. A. Wolfe, Nellie Wolfe, Pastor's wife, Mrs. H. Parker, Edna Newell, Nellie Potter. Epworth League President, the Pastor; First Vice-President, Mrs. Ida Smith; Second Vice-President, Mrs. S. A. Wolfe; Third Vice- President, Miss Edna Newell; Fourth Vice President, Mrs. Ella Weaver; Secretary, William Weaver; Treasurer, Mrs. Purdy. Junior League President, Mrs. Purdy; Vice President, Miss A. R. Hjde; Second Vice-President, Mrs. Ida Smith; Third Vice-President, Mrs. Ella Weaver; Secretary, Miss Hattie Smith; Treasurer, Willie Smith. Woman's F. M. S. President, Mrs. M. W. Purdy; Secretary, Mrs. Emma Kolb. Gleaners President, Mrs. Anna M. Ledoyt; Secretary and Treas- urer, Miss Mamie Kirk; Corresponding Secretary, Miss Hettie Tis- dale. M. E. CHURCH, SOUTH GLASTONBURY, CONN. The exact time when Methodist meetings were first held in South Glastonbury is not known. Rev. Mr. Paine, a local preacher, fitted up a room in his house on Still Hill for meetings, and a class was SOUTH GLASTONBURY CHURCH. organized some time before 1826. Lorenzo Dow, J. N. Maffitt and others preached there. Meetings were also held at the house of Edward Goodrich, where Shipley W. Wilson and others preached, before the church was built. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 155 In 1826 South Glastonbury formed a part of the Manchester cir- cuit, which was composed of South Glastonbury, Wassuc, Neipsic, North Street, Middle District, Maryborough and East Hartford. In the minutes of a Quarterly Conference held at Manchester, June, 1 826, appears the names of Edward Hyde, P. E. ; Aa- ron Lummis and Hectoi Bronson, preachers; Josiah Loomis, Allen Parsons, Hen- ry P. Sumner, local preach- ers; Joel Hills, Rooney Hanks, Horton Case, stew- ards; Caleb Cook, Eli Pitkin, Darius Drake, John P. White, Edmund Beebe, Jonathan Fuller, Ephraim Gurley, Lewis Foster, Walter Tilden, Benjamin Paine, Gordon Barrows, class leaders; Harvey Tucker and Samuel Leach, exhorters. In 1828 a church was built of brick, which still stands, and is used as a place of worship by the Methodists at the present time. There was a large revival in 1839, when A. C. Wheat was pastor. Thirty-two SOUTH GLASTONBURY PARSONAGE. REV. D. C. HOUSE. MRS. D. C. HOUSE. united with the church. In 1843 tne Millerite doctrine found many to accept it, some of whom were the leading members. Disputes arose which led to estrangement and separation, and which culminated in closing the house of worship in 1859. It remained closed for ten years. In 1869 it was reopened, and Rev. Mellen Howard was the 156 SOUVENIR HISTORY. stationed pastor. He had a prosperous two years' term of service. A revival which occurred at this time resulted in the conversion of thirty people. In 1874 a house was bought for a parsonage, situated on a piece of land nearly opposite the church. The parsonage was burned in 1878, and a new one built in the same place in the same year. Charles Shipman gave $1,000 towards buying the first parsonage property, and afterwards gave $1,000 to be used as a fund, the interest to be used for the support of preaching in the M. E. Church. There was a revival in 1878, when Lorenzo Dow Bentley was stationed there. He was assisted by Miss Clark, the singing evangelist. The stopping of the cotton mills, which have remained idle for about eight years, together with deaths and removals and other causes, WILLIAM W. ABBEY. MRS. WANTON CHAPMAN. have so reduced the membership of the church and congregation that they are now unable to sustain a pastor, and are left to be supplied by a local preacher. In 1831 John E. Risley and Ephraim Scott were appointed to Manchester, which included Glastonbury. The first mention of Glas- tonbury as an appointment is in 1832, which included South Glaston- bury. The first mention of South Glastonbury as an appointment is in 1839. PASTORS. 1831. 1832. 1833- John E. Risley Ephraim Scott John E. Risley Philo Hawkes Reuben Ransom P. Greene 1834. 1835. 1836. 1837. J. Shepard J. Shepard S. Leonard Supplied Elias C. Scott George May SOUVENIR HISTORY. 157 1838. 1839. 1840. 1841. 1842. 1843- 1844. 1845-56. 1847- 1848-49. 1850. 1851. 1852. I853- 1854- 1855. 1856. 1857. 1858. 1859. Thomas W. Giles 1860. Abijah C. Wheat 1861-62. Solomon Cushman 1863. Abijah C. Wheat 1864-65. Henry Torbush 1866-67. B. M. Walker 1868-69. L. C. Collins 1870. Supplied 1871. Mo?es Stoddard 1872. Marvin Leffingwell 1873-74. Erastus Benton 1875. Moses Chase 1876. Lorenzo W. Blood 1877-78. Daniel Dorchester 1879-80. Warren Emerson 1881. Supplied 1882. A. M. Allen 1883. Supplied 1884. George S. Chadbourn 1885-86. B. M. Walker 1887. Supplied 1888. Varnum A. Cooper 1889-97. James A. Kilbe Warren Emerson Supplied Robert Clark James H. Cooley E. M. Anthony Mellen Howard T. W. Douglass F. A. Metcalf E. L. Latham E. F. Smith D. J. Griffin L. D. Bentley A. W. Paige C. S. Davis Supplied John McVey Supplied J. A. Cole D. G. Ashley Supplied Virgil W. Mattoon D. C. House PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Wanton Chapman, W. W. Abbey, B. H. Closson, R. H. Hollister, Wilbur Closson, George Patten. Stewards W. W. Abbey, Charlotte Abbey, B. H. Closson, D. A. Closson, M. J. Chapman, C. E. Hollister. M. E. CHURCH, SOUTH MANCHESTER, CONN. Less than a year after the heroic pioneer of New England Meth- odism, Jesse Lee, had preached his first sermon in Norwalk, Conn., the Rev. George Roberts preached the "Methodist Doctrine" in the house of Thomas Spencer, situated on the Hartford Road, within the limits of the present town of Manchester. It was in August of that year, 1790, in the home of Mr. Spencer, that this church was formally organized, thus making it one of the earliest Methodist churches in New England. At first it was included in the Hartford circuit. In 1793 it was transferred to the Tolland circuit. In 1826 it became the leading station on the Manchester circuit. For several years the hos- pitable home of Mr. Spencer afforded the place of meeting. The ser- mon was sometimes preached in the yard under the spreading branches SOUTH MANCHESTER CHURCH. of the old "Methodist Elm," a piece of which is carefully preserved under glass in the church as a valued relic of her early days. In 1794 Bishop Asbury records having preached in "a neat house" which had been erected near the home of Mr. Spencer, being "forty by thirty-four feet, having two stories, a broad aisle and a gallery." In those days the building was regarded as quite a pretentious meeting-house for the Methodists. The people came from the surrounding towns to hear the most distinguished preachers of early Methodism, including Bishop Asbury, Jesse Lee, George Pickering, John Broadhead, George Rob- erts, Timothy Merritt and Elijah Hedding. In 1822 a more central location was desired, and a piece of land was purchased by Ephraim Willis and others about three miles east of the Spencer house, near the centre of the town. A larger building was erected upon this spot, being fifty by thirty-eight feet, having two SOUVENIR HISTORY. 159 stories and a tower. The Rev. Jeremiah Stocking, who had been stoned by a lawless mob in another town for his Methodism, preached the sermon at the laying of the corner-stone. The building as it stood for many years at the Centre is remembered by many who are now living. Services were held in the Spencer street building somewhat regularly until 1827, being supplied by the ministers from the Centre Church. The building was sold in 1841 to Joseph Case for $30, and was burned in 1843. A piece of a charred timber is preserved in the present church as a relic of the old Spencer Street Church ; also the Trustees' bill of sale. While at the Centre our church was highly fa- vored in the character of its preachers. Its growth was but natural under such leaders as the Rev. George Pickering, Daniel Ostran- INTERIOR SOUTH MANCHESTER CHURCH, der, Benjamin Lambord, Salmon Winchester, Moses Fifield, D. L. Fletcher, John E. Risley, Van Rensselaer Osborn, Ralph W. Allen, Benjamin C. Phelps and Sanford Benton. In 1851 the population in the north part of the town had so in- creased that 77 members withdrew from the church at the Centre and formed the North Church, whose splendid record of good works has fully sustained the character of the old church. One hundred and twenty-three members were left at the Centre, where they continued to worship until 1853, when it was considered advisable to again change the location of the church and erect a more commodious building. It was during the pastorate of the "young and enthusiastic" Rev. Henry S. White that plans were proposed to purchase the present property, which is admirably located about one mile south of the Centre, on the corner of Main street and the Hartford road. The Building Committee, consisting of Nathaniel Keeney, Russell Eld- ridge, Woodruff Keeney, William G. Bidwell and Henry E. Rogers, contracted for a building to cost about $10,000. On November 9, 1854, the bell pealed out its welcome to the dedication of this, the third house of worship. Rev. Robert H. Hatfield, brother of the pastor, Rev. Edward H. Hatfield, preached the sermon. There are i6o SOUl-'ENIR HISTORY. but eight persons now members of the church whose names were on the record at that time. Messrs. Henry E. Rogers and William G. Bidwell were especially active in securing the present church property. The Cheney brothers have always been liberal in their aid to all mate- rial improvements in the church, as also the Case brothers, who have been closely identified with all its in- terests. In 1860 the Rev. Sanford Benton returned for his second pastorate. It was during this pastorate that an interesting lyceum was formed, which may have been the incep- tion of the present well organized force of young people. Mrs. Abigail K. Benton, his widow, is a be- loved member of the church. Dur- ing the crucial trial of the war the church was faithfully served by Rev. Edwin S. Stanley. At that time the parsonage was built, largely by the labor of the pastor himself. Mr. Stanley is living at Highland Park, attending the services when able, and always a comfort to the pastor of the church. The Rev. Elisha B. Bradford followed, and led the work of remodeling the vestries and paying a debt which was on the parsonage REV. J. S. WADSWORTH. SOUTH MANCHESTER PARSONAGE. property. The pastorate of Augustus W. Kingsley was a very popular one, and left the church materially strengthened. Henry H. Martin and Walter Ela left permanent impressions of their faithful labors. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 161 Rev. Henry D. Robinson is remembered as an "instructive preacher" and a "sympathetic pastor." Living himself upon "The Spiritual Up- lands," he led the church to higher plains. During the pastorate of Rev. John C. Gowen more than $1,300 was expended upon the prop- erty. Rev. Eben Tirrell strengthened the church in all directions, 108 persons being received from probation, among whom were many of the most valuable members to-day. Mr. Tirrell was succeeded by the "courteous, sympathetic, finely symmetrical Dudley P. Leavitt," who remained five years. The influence of the Church was felt throughout the community. A very popular pastorate of three years was that of Rev. James M. Taber, during which a number of improvements were made in the E. L. G. HOHENTHAL, Sunday School Superintendent. W. E. KEITH, Epworth League President. church property. The building was enlarged and the vestries remod- eled at a cost of about $3,000. Also at this time, largely through the efforts of Miss Maytie A. Case, a fine-toned pipe organ was placed in the rear of the pulpit at a cost of over $3,000, being the finest organ in the town. This church had the pleasure and the honor to entertain the last session of the Annual Conference, which proved of. great blessing to the community. During the present pastorate 146 persons have been received into full membership, and 145 on probation. At each monthly Communion these accessions have occurred with but one or two exceptions. There are 396 persons in full membership. The Sunday School numbers 446. The Epworth and Junior Leagues are thoroughly organized and doing excellent work. 1 62 SOUVENIR HISTORY. In looking over the "Records of a Hundred Years," a carefully compiled history of this church, by Miss S. Adelaide Benton, it is seen to have been a church of large importance, as it has preached the great moral reforms with no uncertain sound, giving generously to the benevolent causes of the church and maintaining as its chief charac- teristic a deeply spiritual life. Revivals have occurred in almost every pastorate. PASTORS. 1790. Nathaniel B. Mills 1814. 1791. Lemuel Smith Menzies Rainor 1815. 1792. Hope Hull George Roberts 1816. Fredus Aldridge J 793- Joseph Lovell 1817. 1794. Lemuel Smith 1818. George Pickering 1795. Christopher Spry 1819. Nicholas Snethen 1796. Evans Rogers 1820. Thomas Cooper 1797-98. Lawrence McCombs 1821. 1799. Daniel OsLrancler 1800. Abner Wood 1822. 1801. Augustus Jocelyn Henry Evans 1823. 1802. Elijah Batchelor Alexander McLane 1824. 1803. Augustus Jocelyn Elijah Batchelor 1825. 1804. John Gove 1805. Noble W. Thomas Benjamin P. Hill 1826. 1806. John Tinkham Theophilus Smith 1827. 1807. Hollis Sampson Greenleaf R. Norris 1828. 1808. Benjamin F. Lambord Elisha Streeter 1829. 1809. Benjamin P. Hill William Hinman 1^30. 1810. Joel Steel Samuel Cutler 1831. 1811. Philip Munger Robert Arnold 1832-33. 1812. Elias Marble 1834-35. Thomas W. Tucker 1836. 1813. Edward Hyde 1837-38. Benjamin Sabin 1839-40. Joel Winch Job Pratt William Mason Orin Roberts Salmon Winchester Nathan Paine Salmon Winchester Leonard Bennett Hezekiah Davis Leonard Bennett Francis Dane Ebenezer Blake Theophilus Smith Ebenezer Blake Daniel Dorchester Joel W. McKee Allen Barnes Joseph Ireson John W. Case Moses Fifield Joseph Ireson Elisha Frink Benjamin F. Lambord Milton French Aaron Lummis Hector Bronson Ira M. Bidwell Caleb D. Rogers D. L. Fletcher Horace Moulton Heman Perry George Stone Heman Perry Ephraim Scott John E. Risley Ephraim Scott Hezekiah Ramsdell Salmon Hull Van Rensselaer Osborn Ralph W. Allen Sanford Benton SOUVENIR HISTORY. j6 3 1841-42. Richard Livesey 1862. James M. Worcester 1843. Charles Noble 1863-64. Edwin S. Stanley 1844. Pardon T. Kenney 1865-67. Elisha B. Bradford 1845-46. Van Rensselaer Osborn 1868-70. Augustus W. Kingsley 1847-48. Benjamin C. Phelps 1871-72. Henry H. Martin 1849-50. Merritt P. Alderman 1873. John Gray 1851-52. John Cooper 1874-76. Walter Ela 1853. Henry S. White 1877-79. Henry D. Robinson 1854-55. Edward H. Hatfield 1880-82. John C. Gowan 1856. ' Thomas Ely 1883-85. Eben Tirrell 1857. Richard Livesey 1886-90. Dudley P. Leavitt 1858. Horace Atwater 1891-93. James M. Taber 1859. William Kellen 1894. Julian S. Wadsworth 1 860-6 1. Sanford Benton PRESENT OFFICIARY. Local Preachers William E. Keith, William McCreery. Trustees John Loomis, President; George H. Gould, Robert N. Stanley, Secretary; F. Dwight Hale, Edwin T. Carrier, E. L. G. Hohenthal, Walter Couch, George M. Barber. Charles H. Bloom. Stezvards Mason Agard, Sanford M. Benton (R. S.), George D. Keith, Edward E. Agard, Edward C. Stanley, George W. Ferris, Wil- liam H. Franklin, George Davidson, Florilla M. Stanley, Mary M. Benton, Esther Abbey, Marietta S. Case, Carrie E. Case. Sunday School Superintendent, E. L. G. Hohenthal; Assistant Superintendents, William E. Keith, Wesley B. Porter, Maria R. In- galls, Mary E. Hunt; Secretary, Howard I. Taylor; Assistant Secre- tary, George E. Keith; Treasurer, Edward E. Agard; Librarians, Thomas Trotter, Everett Brainard, George Hunt; Superintendent of Home Department, E. E. Agard. Epzvorth League President, William E. Keith; Spiritual Depart- ment, Maria R. Ingalls; Mercy and Help Department, Lillian Frank- lin; Literary Department, Edward E. Agard; Social Department, Eva C. Malkin; Secretary, Charles W. Fitch; Treasurer, Clinton B. Nichols; Superintendent of Junior League, Mrs. Mae Short Wads- worth. Woman's F. M. S. President, Mrs. Mary M. Benton. Woman's H. M. S. Mrs. Marietta S. Case. Ladies' Aid Society Mrs. Mary M. Benton. M. E. CHURCH, STAFFORD SPRINGS, CONN. The date of the introduction of Methodism into Stafford cannot be determined with certainty. Tradition says that there was a class in the town in 1801. Historic references by a Congregational pastor shows that there were Methodists in the town in 1807. In 1792 Hope Hull was preacher in charge of the old Hartford circuit; and it is known that he preached at least once in the Congregational Church on West Stafford Hill. Probably there was occasional preaching from that time. Tangible history begins in 1818, when Orrin Harwood was appointed leader of the weak class in the northern part of the town, known as the Tray Hollow class, and connected with the Square Pond Society. From that time there was growth. Week day services were held, sometimes in his house, which was the home of Methodist itinerants and the centre of Methodist interest for all this re- gion, and sometimes in the schoolhouse. Mr. Harwood continued an active worker in the church till the close of his earthly life, a few years ago, when he lacked only two weeks of being a hundred years old. In 1829 Horace Moulton began to hold regular Sunday services in the old Universalist Church on West Stafford Hill, being the first Methodist preacher to hold regular Sunday services in the town. A revival the previous year un- der Rev. George Stone had raised the membership to for- ty and rendered this move- ment possible. Another re- vival followed the inaugura- tion of Sunday services. Dur- ing this same year Mr. Moul- ton held a service in the red schoolhouse near the home of Parley Converse, being probably the first Metho- list service ever held with- STAFFORD SPRINGS PARSONAGE. STAFFORD SPRINGS CHURCH. SOU y EN I R HISTORY. 165 in the limits of the present borough of Stafford Springs. He left an appointment for his associate, Paul Townsend, and under the first sermon of Mr. Townsend several persons were converted. A revival followed, and a class of forty members was formed, with David Foskit leader. This revival seems to have been conducted by Revs. Moulton and Townsend, although Rev. H. S. Ramsdell was then in charge of Tolland circuit, with which Square Pond and the Stafford classes were connected, and the others were his associates. Ramsdell was then 25 years old, Mr. Moulton 30 and Mr. Townsend 22. The next year the class at West Stafford Hill was separated from the class at Square Pond and united with the class at the Springs, the REV. J. I. BARTHOLOMEW. MRS. J. I. BARTHOLOMEW. two forming a distinct society known as the "First Methodist Episco- pal Society in Stafford," but still connected with the Tolland circuit. In 1832 this organization became legal, and a chapel 30 by 40 feet was built. It was dedicated in February, 1833, by Rev. Orange Scott, Presiding Elder. The revival spirit continued and many were added to the church. The "great revival" in 1842-43, under the labors of the pastor, Warren Emerson, still lingers in the minds of our older members. One lady says that when she returned from school at Wilbraham at that time it seemed as though everybody had been converted. In 1845 tne chapel was enlarged by the addition of 12 feet to its length and was otherwise improved. At the same time a Conference house was built for social meetings. Another revival of deep interest occurred under the pastorate of Rev. L. C. Collins, in 1846-47, adding to the church some who are now among its most valued members. i66 SOUVENIR HISTORY. In 1857, Rev. Erastus Benton pastor, about fifty persons pro- fessed conversion in a revival. In 1862, Paul Townsend again pastor, the Conference house was moved from its original site next to the chapel, both being half a mile away from the site of the present church, to the corner of West Main and High streets, in the village, and was enlarged. A revival following this movement greatly strengthened the church. The de- mand for larger accommodations and a more central location led to the erection of a new church in 1865, during the pastorate of Rev. J. T. Benton. The lot was given by Julius and Orren Converse; the build- S. F. MAIN, Sunday School Superintendent. E. A. CLEVELAND, Epworth League President. ing with furnishings cost about $20,000. It was dedicated February 23, 1866, by Bishop James, the only Methodist Bishop, so far as known, who ever set foot on Stafford soil. The parsonage was built in 1868-69 on borrowed money, and was paid for in 1879, during the first year of the pastorate of Rev. E. D. Towle. During the second year of this pastorate, in anticipation of its semi-centennial celebration, the church was extensively improved at a cost of over $7,000, and all bills were paid. William T. Worth was the first pastor after the erection of the present building. A revival began during the winter of 1867-68 and was almost continuous throughout his pastorate; 123 were received on probation; 85 adults were baptized, and 74 were received into the church from probation. William McKendree Bray, appointed pastor in 1869, reports a revival, with 30 probationers. During the winter of 1872-73, William V. Morrison pastor, there were about 40 professed inversions. In 1874, W. H. Stetson pastor, there was a revival, with SOUVENIR HISTORY. 167 100 conversions reported. During the pastorate of Dr. A. J. Church, 1 877-78, "over a hundred were converted, 87 joined the class, and 90 joined in full or by letter." Since then there has been no general revival. In the Conference years, beginning April, 1879 an d April, 1880, E. D. Towle pastor, six were received on probation, of whom one became a full member. In 1881 and 1882, A. P. Palmer pastor, 23 on probation, of whom 10 became members; 1883-84, J. E. Hawkins pastor, 18 probationers, of whom 15 became members. The next two and a half years, E. M. Taylor pastor, 51 probationers, 32 became members. The next thirteen months, A. E. Drew, pastor, 32 probationers, of whom 27 became members. From Jan- uary, 1889, to April, 1892, Ed- gar F. Clark pastor, received 26 on probation, 19 became members; 1892-93, Dr. C. E. Harris pastor, 20 were re- ceived on probation, of whom 17 have become members. During the present pastorate, now three and a half years long, 65 have been received on probation, of whom 38 have become members. The present membership is 267, with -13 probationers. The Sunday School has an average attendance of about 140, and is doing efficient work. The Woman's Home Missionary Society and the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society organizations of this church are among the best in the Conference. The Ladies Aid Society is alive and active. The Epworth League and Junior League are represented here. The church is thoroughly organized, free from debt, is remark- ably harmonious and vigorously at work. Rev. William O. Cady and Rev. S. O. Benton, D. D., of the New England Southern Conference 'both received local preachers' licenses when members of this church. Rev. Thomas G. Hodgson of the Co- lumbia River Conference was also for years a member here. Rev. W. W. Ellis, who served with great acceptance several pastorates on the Norwich district, though never a member of the Conference, was converted and religiously developed in this church. ORR1N HARAVOOD. i68 SOUI'ENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1790. 1791. 1792. 1793- 1/94- 1795- 1796. 1798. 1799. 1801. 1802. 1803. 1804. 1805. 1806. 1807. 1808. 1809. iSio. 1811. 1812. 1813. 1814. 1815. 1816. 1817. Nathaniel B. Mills Lemuel Smith Menzies S. Raynor Hope Hull George Roberts F. Aldriclge Joseph Lovell Lemuel Smith George Pickering Christopher Spry Nathaniel Sneathing Evan Rodgers Lawrence M. Combs Daniel Ostrander :Abner Wood Justus Joseiyn Henry Eames Elijah Bacheler Alexander McLean Augustus Joseiyn Elijah Bacheler John Gove Noble W. Thomas Benjamin Hill John Tinkham Theophilus Smith Hollis Sampson G. R. Morris Benjamin F. Lombard Benjamin P. Hill William Hinman Joel Steele Samuel Cutler Philip Munger Robert Arnold Elias Marble Thomas Tucker Edward Hyde Benjamin Sabin Joel Winch Job Pratt William Marsh Orin Roberts Salmon Winchester Nathan Paine Benjamin Sabin B. F. Lambert L. B. Griffin Salmon Winchester 1821. 1822. 1823. 1824. 1825. 1826. 1827. 1828. 1829. 1830. 1831. 1832. 1833- 1834- 1835- 1836. 1837- 1838. 1839. 1840. Leonard Bennett Hezekiah Davis Leonard Bennett Francis Dane Ebenezer Blake Ebenezer Blake Daniel Dorchester Joel W. McKee Allen Barnes Joseph Ireson John W. Case Moses Fifield Joseph Ireson Seth Cogswell Elisha Frink Erastus Otis Daniel L. Fletcher Erastus Otis Rufus Spaulding Heman Perry George Stone H. S. Ramsdell Paul Townsend Horace Moulton John W. Case Paul Townsend H. S. Ramsdell Jefferson Hascall Nehemiah Rodgers Charles Hayward Mosely Dwight Hiram Gregg W. Wilcutt Ezra Withey Lozien Pierce L. B. Griffin Proctor Marsh L. B. Griffin John Caldwell Stephen Gushing R. D. Easterbrooks James Shepard Asa Niles Asa Niles Moses Stoddard L. C. Collins Lorenzo W. Blood Lyman Leffingwell SOUVENIR HISTORY. 169 1841. 1842-43. 1844. 1845. 1846-47. 1848-49. 1850-51. 1852. 1853-54. 1855. 1856-57. 1858-59. 1860-61. 1862. Lorenzo W. Blood 1863-65. Edmund A. Standish 1866-68. Warren Emerson 1869. William H. Richards 1870-71. William Leonard 1872-73. Lorin C. Collins 1874-75. Franklin Fisk 1876-78. James Mather 1879-80. Lorin C. Collins 1881-82. William S. Simmons 1883-84. George W. Brewster 1885-87. Erastus Benton 1887-88. Pardon T. Kenney 1889-91. Charles Morse 1892-93. Paul Townsend 1894. Josiah T. Benton William T. Worth Wm. McKendree Bray William V. Morrison William H. Stetson Joseph H. James Andrew J. Church E. D. Towle Albert P. Palmer J. Ellis Hawkins Edward M. Taylor Alfred E. Drew Edgar F. Clark Charles E. Harris James I. Bartholomew PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees President, Orrin Converse; Secretary, Alvarado How- ard; Robbins Patten, Colonel C. H. Warren, G. S. Ellis, Andrew Whiton. Exhortcr Amos N. Nichols. Class Leaders Joseph Clifford, Charles P. Hodgson. Stewards C. F. Harwood, E. K. Taft, F. F. Patten (D. S.), R. S. Converse, J. H. Reed, Esq., William Lee, G. O. Cleaveland, E. A. Cleveland, L. S. Converse, H. F. Parker, B. T. Eaton (R. S.), Thomas Johnson, Artemas Kellogg. Sunday School Superintendent, S. F. Main; Assistant Superin- tendent, Joseph Clifford; Secretary and Treasurer, Ernest Taft; Libra- rian, Jesse Clifford. Teachers J. H. Reed, Esq.; L. S. Converse, Miss M. A. Francis, Joseph Clifford, C. P. Hodgson, H. F. Parker, Miss G. A. Washburn, Amos N. Nichols, Mrs. Carrie Orcutt, Mrs. J. I. Bartholomew, Miss Florence Washburn, Miss Alberta Eaton, Miss Edith Cushman, J. I. Bartholomew, Mrs. C. G. Ellis, Mrs. C. P. Hodgson, Miss Myrnie Washburn, Miss Clara M. Ellis. Epworth League President, E. A. Cleveland; First Vice Presi- dent, C. P. Hodgson; Second Vice President, Mrs. Jeanie Converse; Third and Fourth Vice President, Miss M. A. Sargeant; Secretary, Clarence D. Walker; Treasurer, Miss Maud Underwood. Junior League Superintendent, Mrs. J. I. Bartholomew; Presi- dent, Miss Eugenia C. Lee; First Vice President, William E. Benton; Second Vice President, Miss Alice Fitton; Third and Fourth Vice President, George Ellis; Secretary, Frank Clifford; Treasurer, Miss Helen Underwood. M. E. CHURCH, SQUARE POND, CONN. One of the oldest societies in the Conference is located at Crystal Lake, formerly called Square Pond, Conn. It is not known exactly when Methodist services were first held here, but doubtless Jesse Lee preached at the Pond very soon after his first sermon in Tolland, in April, 1790. At any rate, Square Pond was included in the old Hartford Circuit when it was formed in Octo- ber, 1798. Nathaniel B. Mills was the first preacher in charge. In 1791 Bishop Asbury re- cords in his journal a great revival at Hartford Circuit. He writes: "At Tolland and the neighboring villages the THE SQUARE POND CHURCH. interest was especially pro- found," and he estimates that "on<: hundred and fifty were converted there." One of these villages near Tolland which shared the great revival was Square Pond. A chapel was built and dedicated in 1792, one year earlier than the chapel at Tolland was completed. This chapel was destroyed by fire about thirty-five years later. In 1834 a lot was secured on the opposite side of the road and the present chapel was erected. For many years Methodism flourished at Square Pond. Among other items of interest we find that a Methodist camp-meeting was held here in 1806. The Methodist move- ment in Stafford was at first a class attached to the Square Pond Society. In the first half of this century a di- vision arose among the religious peo- ple at Square Pond, and as a result an Adventist Church was organized and a chapel built. Wherever the blame lay, the division was unfortu- nate. The little community, never large enough to support one church properly, was unable to continue even in the semblance of success in two HERBERT A. GLAZIER, In spite Of the earnest ef- Sunday School Superintendent. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 171 forts of loyal men and women, with faithful pastors, our church grew weaker and weaker. In the early fifties it appears in the Conference minutes as one of the appointments left to be supplied by the Presiding Elder. Since 1887 it has not appeared in the minutes at all. For some time after this date a local preacher, Rev. O. E. Thayer, living at Square Pond, held regular services. Finally these services were discontinued. A similar fate befell the Adventist Church, and for some years the two chapels on opposite sides of the road have stood unused, while the children of the com- munity have been deprived of preaching and Sunday School privileges. In June, 1897, Presiding Elder George H. Bates attached Square Pond Church to the Stafford Springs charge, J. I. Bartholomew pastor. Preaching services were held June 27, with an attendance of 65. Since then preaching services have been held twice a month on Sunday afternoons. The average attendance during the summer was over 70. Since then (up to January 23, 1898) about 50. July 4 a Sunday School was organized, and it is doing good work. Trustees have been elected, and a Quarterly Conference held. The ladies have formed an Aid Society, and have furnished lights for the church and built new horse sheds to take the place of the old ones, which were completely decayed. All bills are paid. The people of all denominations are working to- gether harmoniously and enthusiastically. At this writing a revival is in progress. PASTORS 1790. Nathaniel B. Mills 1805. 1791. Lemuel Smith M. S. Raynor 1806. 1792. Hope Hull George Roberts 1807. F. Aldridge J 793- Joseph Lovell 1808. 1794. Lemuel Smith 1809. George Pickering T 795- Christopher Spry 1810. Nathaniel Sneathing 1796. Evan Rogers 1811. 1798. Lawrence McCombs 1799. Daniel Ostrander 1812. 1800. Abner Wood 1801. Justin Joselyn 1813. Henry Eames 1802. Elijah Bacheler 1814. Alexander McLean 1803. Augustus Joselyn 1815. Elijah Bacheler 1804. John Gove Noble W. Thomas Benjamin Hill John Tinkham Theophilus Smith Hollis Sampson G. R. Morris Benj. F. Lombard Benjamin P. Hill William Hinman Joel Steele Samuel Cutler Philip Munger Robert Arnold Elias Marble Thomas Tucker Edward Hyde Benjamin Sabin Joel Winch Job Pratt William Marsh Orin Roberts 172 SOUI'ENIR HISTORY. i8i6. Salmon Winchester 1837- S Nathan Paine R 1817. Benjamin Sabin. 1838. Ji S. Winchester A 1818. Leonard Bennett 1839. L Hezekiah Davis A 1819. Leonard Bennett ]V Francis Dane 1840. L 1820. Ebenezer Blake L 1821. E. Blake 1841. L Daniel Dorchester E 1822. Joel W. McKee 1842. E Allen Barnes G 1823. Joseph Ireson 1843- C John W. Case J 1824. Moses Fifield 1844. L J. Ireson A Seth Cogswell 1845-46. C 1825. Elisha Frink 1847- J' B. F. Lambert 1848-49. B L. B. Griffin 1850. ' V 1826. Erastns Otis 1851-52- C Daniel L. Fletcher 1853-54. Z 1827. Erastns Otis 1855- E Rnfus Spaulding 1856-57- V 1828. Heman Perry 1858. F George Stone 1859. J< 1829. H. S. Ramsdell 1862. Is P. Townsend 1863. G H. Moulton 1864. E 1830. John W. Case 1865. G P. Townsend 1866. V 1831. H. S. Ramsdell 1867. I, Jefferson Hascall 1868-70. L 1832. Nehemiah Rogers 1871. E Charles Hayward V 1833- Moseley Dwight 1872. E Hiram Gregg 1873. IN W. Willcutt 1874. C 1834- Lozien Pierce 1875-76. 1835- L. B. Griffin 1882-83. C Proctor Marsh 1885. * J 1836. L. B. Griffin 1886. J John Calchvell 1897. J Stephen Gushing R. D. Easterbrooks James Shepard Asa Niles L. C. Collins Asa Niles Moses Stoddard L. W. Blood Lyman Leffingwell L. W. Blood Edmond A. Standish E. A. Standish C. W. Turner C. W. Turner John Standish Israel Sherman Abraham Holway Charles Morse John B. Hunt Benjamin M. Walker W. W. Kurd Charles Dixon Ziba Loveland E. Strobridge William Phillips Frederic C. Newell Joseph Smith Nathan F. Colver George Burnham D. L. Brown George D. Boynton William Dixon I. B. Fobes Leonard G. Goodell E. L. Latham William Dixon E. L. Latham Nelson Goodrich O. E. Thayer H. H. Arnold O. E. Thayer J. B. Ackley J. O. Dodge J. I. Bartholomew PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees S. F. Mains, President; H. A. Glazier, Secretary; E. H. Dimock, Treasurer; George W. Newell, Dennison Baker, John D. Fletcher. Stewards George W. Newell, Dennison Baker, Armenia Fletcher, Adelia Dimock. Josephine Glazier (R. S.). Sunday School Superintendent, Herbert A. Glazier. M. E. CHURCH, STAFFORDVILLE, CONN. The year 1847 found a few faithful-Wesleyan Methodists in and about the village of Staffordville, Conn. These people, greatly desiring a regular preaching service in their midst, succeeded in securing the services of the Rev. Mr. Eaton. This minister remained but one year, and was followed in 1848 by the Rev. Mr. Bevins, who laid the foundation of Methodist doctrine and polity during a pastorate of three years. The services were at that time held in a hall in the upper part of the public school building. After the removal of Mr. Bevins in 1851, the society did not feel able ro support a minister, and no regular preaching service was held for the space of about nine years. However, at times during this period class meetings were held at the residence of Mr. Ephraim Hall, and were led by Mr. Nathan Agard. In the meantime, some members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Wales, Mass., moved into Staffordville. These persons were natui ally anxious to have a preaching service, and, as a result, an eccle- siastical society was formed, whose object was to maintain "the cause of good order and religion in the community." This was accomplished in 1858. At a meeting of the society, held on December 27th of that year, it was voted to build a church, and a committee was chosen for that purpose. The said committee consisted of William H. Reed, Ephraim Hall and Caleb Faulkner. At a later meeting it was decided to locate the building in Staffordville, on the north side of the public road, leading from the above- named village to Furnace Hollow. The work of erection was THE STAFFORDVILLE PARSONAGE, soon begun. But the building THE STAFFORDVILLE CHURCH. 174 . SOUVENIR HISTORY. of a suitable house of worship was no easy task. Material and money must be procured. The financial difficulty, especially, was very great, and lor a time it seemed well-nigh impossible to obtain the necessary r--eans. Yet God, who never forgets, who never fails those who trust Hun, opened a way, and help came. Opposition also was not wanting. Yet this served but to make the determination stronger, and to inspire the faithful with renewed zeal. In April, 1860, the first Methodist Episcopal minister ever appoint- ed to a Staffordville charge arrived, and took upon him the cares and responsibilities of the new field. This minister was the Rev. James Geratt. A parsonage, directly opposite the church, was purchased in 1866. REV. C. H. VAN NATTER. MRS. C. H. VAN NATTER. It was in this building, then used as a hall, that the services were held during the erection of the church building. At times during the subsequent history of the church the society has had a hard struggle for existence. The woolen mills, the only means of livelihood, often closed. Perhaps the year just closing (1896) has been the hardest one of all. And yet, in spite of the many adverse circumstances, the church has had a fair degree of prosperity. During the pastorate of H. D. Adams (1891-95), the church was repaired and beautified, and an alcove added for the use of the choir. These improvements help to make a pleasant house of worship. Also an addition was built on the parsonage, thus making that edifice more comfortable and convenient. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 175 PASTORS. 1860. 1861. 1862-63. 1864-65. 1866-67. 1868-69. 1870. 1871. 1872-73. I874-75- 1876. James Geratt Francis H. Brown B. M. Walker L. E. Dunham Nelson Goodrich D. L. Brown J. W. Fitch G. W. Winchester Merrick Ransom William Tnrkington C. Hammond 1877-79. L - W. Blood 1880-81. James Tregaskis E. M. Anthony J. J. Cooper Samuel McKeown W. C. Newell T. Wallis G. W. Elmer 1800. F. C. Newell 1891-95. H. D. Adams 1896. " C. H. Van Natter J882. 1883-84. 1885-86. 1887-88. 1889. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stezvards Mr. S. B. Amadon, Mr. Henry Butterfield, Mr. C. N. Smith, Mr. Frank Bowden, Mr. C. F. Williams, Air. J. B. Hamilton, Mrs. L. M. Booth, Mrs. S. B. Amadon. Sunday School Superintendent, Rev. C. H. Van Natter; Assist- ant Superintendent, Mr. S. B. Amadon; Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. F. S. Bowden; Assistant Secretary, Mrs. W. F. Peel; Librarian, Miss F. L. Booth; Assistant Librarians, Mr. William Dunbar and Mr. Mil- ton Smith. Teachers Mr. F. S. Bowden, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Leonard Goodell, Mrs. J. H. McCarthy, Mr. S. B. Amadon, Mrs. L. Goodell, Mrs. C. H. Van Natter. Epworth League President, Rev. C. H. Van Natter; First Vice- President, Mrs. L. M. Booth; Second Vice-President, Miss Grace Booth; Third Vice-President, Mrs. C. H. Van Natter; Fourth Vice- President, Mrs. M. Hughes; Secretary and Treasurer, Miss F. L. Booth. M. E. CHURCH, THOMPSONVILLE, CONN. At an early day in our ecclesiastical history the town of Enfield was visited by Jesse Lee, the apostle of Methodism in the land of the Puritans, and here he gave forth the word of life. It was also favored with the presence and preaching of Bishop Ae-bury. Here, too, other pioneers of Methodism halted to preach, when passing to and from other points in New England. The zealous Asbury seemed to regard it as an unpromising field, perhaps because he did not see the fruit immediately. But these men of God sowed the seed and trusted that in due time there would be a harvest, and they were not doomed to dis- appointment. This was simply the beginning, but it was a number of THE THOMPSONVILLE CH years before the societies were organized which now live. The present sketch has to do with the origin of the local church. In 1829 this place was a mere hamlet known as the "Head of the Falls." In that year a class was formed, but it was like a flickering lamp, which finally died out. Preachers from adjacent charges came here to preach occasion- ally, but there was not sufficient encouragement to keep it up as a regular preaching place. At length their visits almost ceased, the class itself became extinct, and the struggle for existence had a fatal termina- tion. But in the year 1836 another class was formed, which consisted of eight members, and it also experienced varying fortunes. In the Fall of 1839 John Howson, a local preacher from England, came here to live and labor. After he came, some one said to him, "You are a Chris- tian." In his frank way he inquired, "How do you know that?" The inquiry was made of him, "Are you not a preacher?" Surprised at being found out, his interrogative was, "Who told you that?" He cast in his lot with this little company of believers, and the accession of that SOUVENIR HISTORY. 177 earnest and zealous Christian man resulted in its growth into an or- ganized church. While he labored for the bread that perisheth, he ren- dered faithful service in the cause of his Master. He began to preach REV. R. D. DYSON. MRS. R. D. DYSON. in the Bell schoolhouse, and it became a place of interest in the local history. The following year, John Howson entered the New England Conference as a traveling preacher. At the session of the Conference HIRAM OLDROYD, Sunday School Superintendent. JOHN T. MOTTERSHEAD, Epworth League President. he. was appointed to Enfield, and Thompsonville, a place in which he felt a -deep interest, became one of his preaching places. He preached here regularly on Sunday evenings, and sometimes on week evenings, 7 8 SOUVENIR HISTORY. and his efforts were directed to the development of Methodism. ^While prosecuting his work so zealously, he was hated and opposed. But he could not be deterred, for he had in him the spirit of the fathers. Nor did he toil and endure in vain. Toward the close of that year this ap- pointment was visited with a gra- cious revival, and a church was established. At the session ot Conference in 1841, Thompson- ville was set off as an independent station, and was known as "En- field West," and John Howson was placed in charge of the work.' He was the most suitable THOMPSOXVILLB PARSONAGE. P erson to carry on the work, and during that year the church, under his leadership, took a stride forward. Through his labors the first church edifice was erected, and near the close of that year was dedicated to the worship and service of Almighty God. Then the young and growing society had a church home, and was cheered by the progressive steps that were .being taken; Previous attempts to plant Methodism here had virtually failed, but under his efficient labors it took root, and it was his privilege to witness its growth and see its usefulness. At the ensuing Conference he was removed to another field of labor, but he left for his successor. L. W. Blood, a young and vigorous society. Mr. Howson may then be regarded as the father of Methodism in Thompsonville. He has built two churches in this place, the first as noted above, and the second by his influence and money, in 1884, the Rev. John Oldham being the active agent and deserving much praise for his own great work in erect- ing- the latter edifice. At a good old age, after a life of labor and great usefulness, Mr. Howson was called home to God. It is fitting; that his memorial tablet should occupy a con- spicuous place in the church he loved and for which he labored so hard and earnestly. The parsonage of this church is one of the finest in the district, c. E. PRICE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 179 and was built during the successful pastorate of C. A. Stenhouse. The pastorate of Rev. James Tregaskis was marked by a good spiritual in- terest, and some valuable church improvements were made. 1*40-41. 1842. 18-13-44. 1845. 1846-47. 1848. 1849-50. 1851-52. 1853- 1854-55. 1856-57- 1858-59. 1860-61. 1862. 1863-65. John Howson L. W. Blood L. W. Blood Mr. Rogers M. P. Alderman Robert Allyn Anthony Palmer G. W. Stearns John Howson S. W. Coggeshall A. H. Robinson Samuel Fox John D. King Erastus Benton John Lovejoy Sanford Benton Robert Parsons PASTORS. 1866. 1867. 1868. 1869-71. 1872-73. 1874- 1875-76. 1877-79. 1 880-8 1. 1882-84. 1885-86. 1887-89. 1890-92. 1893-94. 1895-96. 1897. Richard Donkersley C. E. Mandeville Ensign McChesney John Howson J. T. Benton Z. S. Haynes J. D. King R. Povey W. H. Starr John Oldham C. W. Holden C. A. Stenhouse Joseph Hollingshead L. B. Codding James Tregaskis Robert D. Dvson PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Hiram Oldroyd, H. W. King, C. E. Price, Joseph Old- royd, William Leggett. Stewards C. E. Price, Joseph Oldroyd, F. T. Hudson, H. W. King, H. L. Abbe, Robert Davis, W. G. Wiseman, Hiram Oldroyd. Sunday School Superintendent, Hiram Oldroyd; Assistant, H. W. King; Secretary and Treasurer, H. L. Abbe; Librarian, C. W. Hudson. Teachers F. T. Hudson, Mrs. E. Bates, Grace Cope, John Mot- tershead, Addie Davis, Sarah Maylott, H. W. King, Fannie Hayward, Georgia Duncan, Robert Burgess, W. G. Wiseman, R. D. Dyson. Epivorth League President, John T. Mottershead; First Vice- President, Charles W. Hudson; Second Vice-President, Sarah May- lott; Third Vice-President, Grace Cope; Fourth Vice-President, Emily M. Cope; Secretary, Harry C. Bartley; Treasurer, Horace L. Abbe. M. E. CHURCH, UNCASYILLE, CONN. Uncasville is a pretty village in the town of Montviile, midway be- tween Norwich and New London, on the west bank of the Thames River, and on the Central Vermont Railroad, the station being called Montviile. Three steamers on their way to the famous watering places stop here daily during the Summer season, and travelers who have seen much of the world pronounce this spot one of "Nature's ideal picture galleries." Uncasville is named from the famous Indian chief Un- cas, who, with his powerful tribe, the Mohegans, once roamed these lovely hills and paddled their ca- noes along this beautiful river and its coves. The business of the village in- cludes the well-known Uncasville Cotton Company, a large and well- managed plant, whose spindles never stop in hard times. Charles White, agent and stockholder, and Charles Spaulding, the superinten- dent, are officials and prominent supporters of the church. Henry Johnson & Sons own the large and prosperous dye works, and give generous support to the church. About one mile west is the Pequot Manufacturing Company, which is also of help to the church, and beyond this are the famous bed-quilt mills of the Palmer Brothers. Edward Palmer resides at Uncasviile. and his family are prominent and faithful workers in the church. The first Methodist con- vert in this vicinity was Bet- sey Rogers, in 1805, under the labors of Rev. Nathan Emory. She became the wife of the late Rev. David N. Bentley of Norwich. This was the be- ginning of a long struggle, which finally resulted in the formation of a small society THE UNCASVILLE PARSONAGE. THE UNCASVILLE CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 181 in 1829. The first meetings aroused that spirit of persecution commonly encountered by the early Methodists. Mrs. Wheeler, a Baptist lady, invited a Methodist itinerant, Reuben Ransom of New London, to preach at her house, which was a mill tenement. Mr. Hartshorn, the Superintendent, forbade the meeting, and threatened to discharge all the help who attended. In this emergency Amos Corn- stock, who owned an unused weave shop near the turnpike gate, placed this building at Ransom's disposal. The first meeting was a memor- able one; many were converted, and then and there the Uncasville Methodist church was born. The next year (1830) twenty members were added, one of whom, Mrs. Harriet Comstock, bequeathed at her death $ 1,000 to the church. The first church building was dedicated in REV. W. C. NEWELL. MRS. W. C. NEWELL. 1835, during the pastorate of Rev. Ezra Withey, and cost $1,000. One of the most memorable revivals was during the pastorate of Rev. Albert M. Allen, in 1858-9. Waterman R. Burnham, the well-known Sunday School worker, joined this church in 1862, and no layman lining or dead has done as much for this church as he. Through his efforts the present beautiful church was built in 1872, during the pastorate of Rev. Robert Clark, who saw fifty-six added to the membership and a new camp-meeting house dedicated. The new church cost $13,000, and with its beautiful memorial windows is one of the most attractive churches on the district. During the pastorate of Rev. R. D. Dyson a beautiful chapel was added at a cost of $2,000. The first parsonage was built in 1844 by four or five persons, who rented the house exclusively to Methodist preachers. In 1866 during the pastorate of Rev. H. W. Conant, the present parsonage was pur- 1 82 SOUVENIR HISTORY. chased for $3,300. Its spacious grounds arc beautified with trees and shrubbery, and it makes an attractive home for the preacher. A fine large Richmond furnace was added during the pastorate of Rev. W. F. Davis. The entire church and parsonage property is without debt, and the society has in trust $4,000, left by Daniel L. Browning, the annual GEORGE L. NEWTON, Sunday School Superintendent. HATTIE L. AVERY, Epworth League President. interest of which goes for the support of preaching. Surely the preacher who is appointed to Uncasville may say with the psalmist David, "The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage." PASTORS. 1805. Nathan Emory 1834. 1816. Ebenezer Blake l &35- 1819. John Newland Maffitt 1836. 1820-21. Lewis Bates 1823. Isaac Jennison 1824-29. Reuben Ransom 1830. ' Caleb D. Rogers 1838-39. 1831. Samuel Heath 1840-41. 1832. Heman Perry 1842. Mosely D wight 1^43. Thomas Ely 1844. George May 1845. J. W. McKee 1846-47. 1833. Caleb D. Rogers 1848-49. Asa Miles 1850. Freeman Nutting Jesse B. Dennison 1851-52. Hiram Walden Ezra Withey Freeman Nutting Walter Wilkie Walter Wilkie John Cadwell Henry Torbush Erastus Benton Edmund A. Standish Marvin Leffingwell Lawton Cady Lyman Leffingwell George H. Winchester Lathrop P. Weaver William Turkington John Cooper Abel Gardner SOUVENIR HISTORY. 183 1853- I854-55- I856-57- 1858-59- 1860. 1861-62. 1863-65. 1866. 1867. 1868-70. 1871-73. Joseph Macreading 1874-75. George W. Rogers 1876-77. Henry Mayo 1878-80. Caleb S. Sanford 1881-83. Albert M. Allen 1884-86. William E. Sheldon 1887. Theophilus B. Gurney 1888-89. L. W. Blood 1890-92. Henry W. Conant J 893-95. Albert F. Park 1896. Elisha B. Bradford 1897. Robert Clark J. T. Benton F. A. Crafts Warren A. Luce Charles S. Morse Charles A. Stenhouse J. C. Gowan R. D. Dyson James Tregaskis E. J. Ayres W. F. Davis Wilbur C. Newell PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Marvin Ladd, Charles White, George Newton, George Alexander, Charles Spaulding, William Fitch, William Brown, Water- man R. Burnham, John De Forrest. Stewards William Fitch, George Alexander, William Brown, George Newton, Forrest Perry, Edwin Avery, John De Forrest, Mrs. Edward Palmer, Mrs. Elizabeth Turner, Mrs. Lucy Allyn. Sunday School Superintendent, George L. Newton; Secretary and Treasurer, Mrs. Alice Burton; Librarian, Charles Ramage; Assist- ant, Louis Newton. Teachers The Pastor, Mrs. Lizzie Newell, Mrs. Katie Bolles, Mrs. John De Forrest, Mrs. Charles Hope, Mrs. Alexander, Miss Grace Palmer, Miss Hattie Avery, Miss Ellen Lattimer, Forrest Perry, George Alexander, Mr. Ramage, Mrs. Nobles, A'liss Hattie Walden. Epworth League President, Miss Hattie L. Avery; Secretary, Miss May Grover; Treasurer, George Alexander. Ladies' Social Union President, Mrs. Lizzie H. Newell; Vice- President, Mrs. Charles Spaulding; Secretary, Mrs. James Morrison; Treasurer, Mrs. George L. Newton; Directors, Mrs. Charles Hope, Mrs. Reuben Bolles. M. E. CHURCH, VOLUNTOWN, CONN. Voluntown is situated about seven miles from Jewett City, east by southeast-. Cotton manufacturing is the only industry. Population, about 500 in the village proper and perhaps 700 in the town. Methodism was first planted here in 1841. In September of that year the present church was finished and the land deeded by Jonathan Branch to Isaac W. Thompson and John N. Robinson, both of Griswold, for 999 years. The seating capacity of the church is 200. It is a very cosy and comfortable house of worship, still heated by wood stoves; is pro- vided with an organ and an orchestra of eight pieces. The League present- ed the church with a piano. The church records up to 1878 have been lost. Under W. W. Ellis a new order of things was instituted, and all lines of work were greatly im- proved. Messrs. Dyson and Kirkby have left unmistakable traces of labors which were blessed. A good revival occurred during the pastorate of M. T. Braley and several were con- verted. The present pastor, W. A. Gardner, has been wonderfully suc- cessful in building up the church. The membership has doubled and the church is now in a healthy condition. Among the laity Dr. Young should be mentioned for his faithful labors. John A. Whipple, who died in April of this year (1897), be- queathed $3,000 to this church. Our present chorister, James T. Wil- bur, has been the means of adding to the interest and attendance of our services by his faithfulness. Our Sunday School Superintendent is now laboring in the thirteenth year in that capacity. REV. W. A. GARDNER. 1878. W. W. Ellis 1879. S. Amidon 1880-81. R. D. Dyson 1882-83. W. Kirkby 1884. C. S. Morse 1885. Charles F. Sharpe 1886-87. G. H. Lamson PASTORS. 1888-89. 1890. M. T. Braley V. W. Mattoon 1891-92. J. Q. Adams 1893-94. D. G. Ashley 1895. T. C. Denman 1896. W. A. Gardner SOUVENIR HISTORY. 185 PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees J. T. Wilbur, President; E. A. Kinne, Secretary and Treasurer; H. F. Button, Ira C. Maine, Henry Greene and William Weeks. Stewards J. T. Wilbur, E. A. Kinne, William Weeks, Herbert Knight, Airs. A. Austin, I. W. Kinne, Susan Weeks, Mary J. Campbell and Ada Kinne. Class Leaders William Johnston and Henry Greene. Sunday School Superintendent, William Johnston. Ef worth League President, Rev. W. A. Gardner; First Vice- President, H. F. Button; Second Vice-President, Edith M. Wilbur; Third Vice-President, Idella Leffingwell; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. Anna F. Button; Secretary, Mrs. W. A. Gardner; Treasurer, J. Frank Gardner. M. E. CHURCH, WAPPING, CONN. In the early history of Methodism in Wapping, Conn., the names of two men are conspicuous, those of Father Drake and Captain Jona- than Stoughton, who by their exemplary lives and never-tiring energy in Christian work did much to prepare the way for a Methodist society. Rev. V. Osborn, a school teacher of Manchester, by the request of Captain Stoughton, was the first to preach as a Methodist in W r ap- ping. He organized a society with a membership of eight. A church had been built on the pub- lic green, and the money for its erection was raised by subscription from all denominations then repre- sented. The Presbyterians were in the majority, and it was agreed that when- ever they should desire to occupy the house to themselves they could do so by refunding to the other denominations the amount of their subscrip- THE WAPPING CHURCH. tions. For one year Rev. Mr. Osborn alternated with other preachers in the supply of the pulpit. At the end of that time the Presbyterians, having paid back the subscriptions, as agreed, claimed the church. i86 SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. The Methodists were compelled to find other quarters, and so for a time services were conducted in the neighboring schoolhouse, of which the South schoolhouse was most used. Here they were so pressed for room that often the inside of the building was left to the women and children, the men remaining in the open air while Rev. Mr. Osborn preached from a wagon placed by an open win- dow. At other times the people gathered under a large elm tree that stood near the schoolhouse. It was necessary to provide a more convenient place of worship, so it was decided to build. The church members, together with those interested, went forth into the forest and felled the timbers, which are the framework of the present church edifice standing on the common. It was dedi- cated by Rev. V. Osborn in 1833. Since then many changes have been made, of which the following are the most important. From 1851 to 1853 the church was raised THE WAPPING PARSONAGE. REV. S. J. ROOK. MRS. S. J. ROOK. and a basement added, a new front of seven feet put in, a steeple erected, and a bell placed in it. Also new pews and pulpit furniture were purchased. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 187 In 1877, during the pastorate of Rev. E. F. Smith, $850 was expended in remodeling and repairing the church. In 1892, during the service of Rev. D. W. Adams, extensive re- pairs were made, the basement being improved by putting in new floor and ceiling and dividing the room into three apartments. The church was painted, and new steps added to the front. The audience room was painted, papered and carpeted, and a new furnace placed in the basement. At this time the present parsonage was purchased. The old parsonage on Ellington road, a short distance west of the church, was purchased by Norman Foster and Edwin Foster and held for the society. Through the bequest of $500 from Mrs. Nancy Rockwell, who died in 1863, and a subscription which was raised two years later, the W. F. BUCKLAND, Sunday School Superintendent. WM. D. FOSTER, Epworth League President. property came into the hands of the society in 1865. Not being a desirable location, an exchange was made in 1893, the Society to pay an additional $500, which amount is yet unpaid. The present property consists of a parsonage, large barn and about twelve acres of land. The church is valued at $4,000 and the parsonage property at $1,600. A chapter of the Epworth League was organized during the pas- torate of J. W. Naramore in 1891, which has been doing faithful work. Its departments at present are in good working order. The member- ship varies from fifty to sixty. The Sunday School numbers about fifty. The church membership is eighty-five and thirteen probationers. [88 SOU FEN I R HISTORY. 1830-33. 1833- 1834- 1835- 1836-37. 1838. 1839. 1840. 1841. 1842. 1843- 1844. 1845- 1847- 1849. 1850. 1851. I852-53- 1854. 1855- PASTORS. V. Osborn 1856-57. S. Hull 1858-59- E. M. Beebe 1860. Supplied 1861. S. Drake 1862. P. T. Kenney 1863-64. W. Ward 1865. Freeman Nutting 1866. Charles A. Carter 1867. Ebenezer Blake 1868-69. Alanson Latham 1870. Richard Livesey 1871-72. A. C. Wheat 1873-74. Richard Livesey T 875- Caleb D. Rogers 1876-77. Manning Walker 1878-79. Charles Noble 1880. Manning Walker 1881-83. Pardon T. Kenney 1884. Sidney Dean 1887. Levi Daggett 1888. Loren Collins - 1889. E. A. Lyon 1890. Lyman Leffingwell 1891. Nelson Goodrich 1892. Roger Albiston 1896. J. F. Sheffield 1897. J. S. Mather B. M. Walker L. D. Bentley S. Lamberton Nelson Goodrich T. W. Douglass Frederic C. Newell George Morse J. H. Cooley Heflin Smith G. H. Winchester Mellin Howard Denison L. Brown Edward Anthony E. F. Smith Charles Hammond George Bentley W. F. Taylor J. Betts S. F. Harmon W. N. Alexander - McDonald B. F. Raynor J. W r . Naramore D. W. Adams S. G. Dorey S. J. Rook PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Norman Foster, W. F. Buckland, N. D. Foster, S. J. Grant, W. H. Lathrop, R. J. Shaw. Stewards Edwin Foster, Norman Foster, S. J. Grant, H. D. Foster, F. W. Foster, W. F. Buckland, R. J. Shaw, W. H. Lathrop, Walter H. Foster, Charles Denning, William M. Foster. Sunday School Superintendent, W. F. Buckland; Assistant Su- perintendent, the Pastor; Secretary and Treasurer, Miss Dora Foster; Librarian, Miss Carrie Grant. Teachers N. D. Foster, S. J. Rook, Mrs. Sheldon Grant, Miss Ellen Foster, Mrs. Norman Stoughton, Mrs. Wesley Brown, Miss Mary Foster, Mrs. W. F. Buckland, Mrs. S. J. Rook. Epzvorth League President, William M. Foster; First Vice Pres- ident, W. F. Buckland; Second Vice President, Mrs. W. Brown; Third Vice President, Miss May Foster; Fourth Vice President, Miss Carrie Grant; Treasurer, Louis Grant; Secretary, W. C. Hills. Junior League Superintendent, Mrs. S. J. Rook; Assistant Super- intendent, Katharine Buckland; President, Ruth Brown; Vice Presi- dent, Gusta Meikolite; Treasurer, Norma Stoughton; Secretary, How- ard Foster; Corresponding Secretary, Clarence Smith. WAREHOUSE POINT CHURCH. M. E. CHURCH, WAREHOUSE POINT, CONN. In 1822 Mrs. Hannah Randall received a communication from Providence, her former home, stating that one of her friends had mar- ried a Methodist minister by the name of Fifield, and that he was sta- tioned in Springfield, Mass. With a ready mind Mrs. Randall opened a correspondence with her friends in Springfield, which resulted in a visit from Rev. Moses Fifield to Warehouse Point. In true itinerant fashion he improved the opportunity by preaching to the people who assembled in the King Street school- house. At the close of the service he was requested to come again and preach to them, which he did. On his second coming he was engaged to supply the people one-half of the time until the next session of the Conference, the service to be held in what is now the Protestant Episcopal church. On Mr. Fifield's second visit he formed a class, composed of the following persons: Ephraim Randall and wife, Beulah Chaplin, a widow; Thomas Knight, and Hannah Abbe. This was the beginning of the Warehouse Point Church. In the summer of 1822 Rev. Moses Fifield was appointed to the circuit, consisting of Warehouse Point and Tolland, and he moved here and remained preacher in charge two years. Quite a number were added to the church during his pastorate. A revival was held in the Episcopal Church, and stirred up quite an opposition, so much so that for peace the meetings were taken from the church and held in the schoolhouse. The same parties continued their per- secutions, and the schoolhouse, by vote of the district, was shut against the Methodists, and there was nothing to do but hold the meetings in private houses, and this was done in the homes of Phineas Parsons and Mary Holkins. In a few months the society procured a hall on Water street, where it worshiped for a time. Very soon Mr. Holkins resolved to WAREHOUSE POINT PARSONAGE. 190 SO U I 'EN IK HIS TOR Y. build a meeting-house for the Methodists, but for some reason failed to do so; but the church claimed by the Episcopalians was leased for half the time, and this state of things continued until 1831. Then the persecution by the same parties as before broke out REV. C. H. WALTER. MRS. C. H. WALTER. again, and the society was driven from the church to the schoolhouse. About this time Mr. Holkins died, and the papers pertaining to the building of the meeting-house could not be found; but this good friend J. R. SPERRY. HON. S. D. ROCKWELL. left the society $1,000, the interest on which was to be applied to the support of preaching, and is still so used. During the pastorate of Rev. George . Southworth, 1829-30, Rev. R. W. Allen of the New SOUVENIR HISTORY. 191 England Conference and Rev. James Pascoe were converted, and many others, who have proved great helps to the society. In 1832, when Rev. E. M. Beebe was pastor, the present church edifice was built. Warehouse Point was made a station by itself in 1883; 180 were converted in 1834, while Windsor Ward was pastor. Rev. Moses Stoddarcl was appointed to Warehouse Point in 1842, but sickness prevented his coming at once, and when he did he found the community greatly excited about the second coming of Christ, and a revival commenced as soon as he began his labors. Many of the members embraced this new phase of an old Bible doctrine, and, in GILES W. BOWER, Sunday School Superintendent. MRS. IRINE KIRBY. fact, the pastor was carried away with it and believed Mr. Miller's theory, and felt called upon to go everywhere to warn the people, and so left his appointment and the church. But the church lived through the excitement, and continues to live. The present parsonage was secured during the pastorate of J. M. Worcester, in 1 860-61. This church has always been generous in its contributions for missions, and in 1897 stood second in the district. PASTORS. 1822-23. Moses Fifield 1833. 1824-25. R. F. Sanford 1835-36. 1826. H. Perry 1837. 1827-28. Erastus Otis 1838. 1829-30. George South worth 1839-40. 1831. J. W. Case 1841. 1832. E. M. Beebe 1842. Charles Haywood Isaac Stoddard S. B. Haskell E. Blake B. C. Phelps W. H. Richards Moses Stoddard , 92 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1843. Abraham Holway 1867-68. John Cooper 1844-45. Frank Bill 1869-70. L. W. Blood 1846. ' Charles Barnes 1871-72. A. L. Bearing 1847. Frank Fish 1873-75. John Howson 1848. E. A. Lyon 1876. C. S. Morse 1850-51. Sanford Benton 1877-79. D - L - Brown ! 852-53. James Mather 1880-82. E. S. Fletcher 1854 ~ Abel Gardner 1883-84. William Turkington 1855 L. Dow Bentley 1885-86. H. H. Martin 1856-57. H. W. Conant 1887-88. William Kirkby 1858-59. J. F. Sheffield 1889-90. Richard Burn 1860-61. J. M. Worcester 1891-92. F. C. Baker 1862. Charles C. Adams 1893-94. James Biram 1863-65. W. O. Cady 1895-96. John Pearce 1866. * Robert Parsons 1897. C. H. Walter PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees J. R. Sperry, J. A. Pascoe, O. T. Cone, O. F. Cone, F. L. Jacobs, A. L. Cutter, Dwight Abbe, O. S. Rockwell, M. H. Bancroft. Stewards S. D. Rockwell, J. A. Barber, E. W. Bailey, R. A. Parker, J. R. Sperry (R. S.), O. T. Cone, Olin S. Rockwell, W. J. Bailey, L. G. Bancroft. Class Leader S. D. Rockwell. Sunday School Superintendent, Giles W. Bower; First Assistant Superintendent, O. F. Cone; Second Assistant Superintendent, Mrs. C. H. Walter; Third Assistant Superintendent, Miss Georgia Parker; Secretary and Treasurer, Olin S. Rockwell; Librarians, Miss Emma Bower, Clayton Abbe ; Chorister, Miss Julia Doane. Teachers E. W. Bailey, A. L. Cutter, Mrs. Nettie Munson, Mrs. A. L. Cutter, Miss Julia Doane, Mrs. Irene Kirby, S. D. Rockwell, O. F. Cone, W. J. Bailey, Miss Lottie Derring, Miss Hattie Derring, Miss Bertha Cone, Miss Lena Abbe, Miss Edith Bower. Quar. Con. S. S. Committee, Mrs. Ellen G. Sperry, J. R. Sperry, Mrs. Hannah Parker, Miss Emma Bower. Christian Endeavor President, Mrs. Irene Kirby; Vice President and Treasurer, W. J. Bailey; Secretary, Miss Lena Abbe. GRACE M. E. CHURCH, WESTERLY, R. I. Grace Methodist Episcopal Church in Westerly, R. I., was organ- ized in 1847. The first pastor was the Rev. Pardon T. Kenney. To aid in his support the Missionary Society appropriated $150, to be divided between Westerly and Stonington. The beginning was not very promising. The number of members was small, and their pecu- niary ability limited. The place of worship was the old Union Meeting- House on Union street, where the Town Hall now stands. The con- gregation remained there till 1856, after which the services were held in Vose's Hall, over what is now the ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ clothing store of Mr. George H. Babcock. Having no church edi- fice, and the growth being very slow, the discouraging outlook led the Conference to connect this church with Mystic from about this time until 1866, during which period the prayer and class meet- ings were held in dwelling houses; but the Sunday School was discon- tinued. The appointment of the Rev. G. S. Alexander in 1866 to culti- vate this field greatly revived the waning cause and gave it such an impetus that it has moved steadily and successfully on until the present time. Just prior to the coming of Mr. Alexander a Sunday School was organized through the per- sistent efforts of Mr. David Sunderland, who became its first superintendent. On the first Sunday there were five scholars present; but its growth was such that in the following Decem- ber it numbered ninety-five. The first session of the school was held in Porter and Loveland's Block, where the church continued to wor- ship until a little later date, when the American Hall, where the Barber Memorial Building now stands, was chosen as the place of meeting, and was so used until a church edifice was obtained. In 1867 the Rev. G. A. Morse became the pastor, during whose term of service the lot on High street, where the church now stands, was purchased. A fine church edifice went slowly up, so that under the pastorate THE WESTERLY CHURCH. 194 SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. of the Rev. F. A. Crafts, which began in 1873, services were held in the vestry. In 1881 the Rev. J. B. Hamilton entered upon his pastoral work and succeeded in completing the auditorium. Thirty-one pastors have served this church during the half-century REV. w. J. SMITH. MRS. W. J. SMITH. of its existence, under whose labors many souls have been won to Christ. Rev. J. T. Docking's pastorate was blessed with a good revival. J. J. PINE. Sunday School Superintendent. R. H. MOYLE, Epworth League President. A convenient and well furnished parsonage, an excellent church finely located, a wide-awake and united people, a splendid audience, made SOUVENIR HISTORY. 195 up largely of young persons; a church membership of over three hun- dred, a vigorous Epworth League, an up-to-date Sunday School and a busy and efficient Ladies' Aid Society all combine to make this one of the very pleasant churches of our Conference. PASTORS. 1847- 1848. 1849-50. 1851. 1852. 1853-54. 1855-56. 1857- 1858. 1859-60. 1861. 1862. 1863. 1864-65. 1866. 1867-68. P. T. Kenney L. D. Bentley W. O. Cady ' N. Bemis O. Hughes L. B. Bates G. W. Wooding C. Hammond O. N. Brooks E. S. Stanley C. S. Sanford F. Upham Left to be supplied V. A. Cooper George S. Alexander G. A. Morse 1869. 1870. 1871. 1872. 1 873-75. 1876. 1877-78. 1879-80. 1881-82. 1883. 1884-86. 1887. 1888-90. 1891-92. 1893-94. A. W. Mills J. S. Thomas E. S. Stanley N. G. Axtefl F. A. Crafts J. W. Willett Robert Clark W. P. Hyde J. B. Hamilton Geo. W. Anderson Walter Ela Samuel M. Beale J. E. Hawkins F. L. Hayward James T. Docking Wm. J. Smith PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees William Oppy, J. W. Lewis, A. W. Pachey, R. H. Daney, O. S. Chapman, L. D. Richmond, J. H. Crandall. Stezvards ]. H. Crandall, John Parker, P. F. Caddy, P. H. Opie, N. Percy Pine, Stephen Percy, Jr., W. L. Foster, Fred Parker, W. J. Synions, A. G. James. Sunday School Superintendent, J. J. Pine; Assistant Superintend- ent, John Dower; Secretary, A. G. James; Treasurer, William Pearce; Librarian, Fred Parker. Teachers William Pearce, John Opie, Jennie Simmons, Sarah A. Sisson, Agnes A. Daney, Mrs. William Oppy, W. G. Spargo, Beatrice M. Smith, Viola M. Babcock, W. J. Spargo, John T. Parker, Benjamin Dower, Annie J. Pascoe, Thomas H. Clemens. Epii'orth League President, R. H. Moyle; First Vice President, Edgar Matthews; Second Vice President, Fannie P. Percy; Third Vice President, J. S. Pearce; Fourth Vice President, Nellie Bennett; Fifth Vice President, Emily Pine; Sixth Vice President, A. Mabelle Ingharn. M. E. CHURCH, WEST THOMPSON, CONN. The church at West Thompson is an outgrowth of the services conducted in Pomfret under the direction of Rev. John Allen, who labored there during the winter of 1792-93- During that time Noah Perrin, who resided near Putman, under his powerful preaching, was made sensible of his alienated condition. He therefore opened his house to the preachers and soon after received the pardoning grace 1 WEST THOMPSON CHURCH AND PARSONAGE. of God. A class of six persons was formed at his residence in 1793. and Noah Perrin was appointed leader, which position he held for nearly sixty years. The Gospel ministry was continued at this house for more than thirty years. For the better accommodation of the preachers a port- able pulpit was constructed. In the year 1793 another class was formed at West Thompson, which was led occasionally by Noah Perrin. To hold in perpetual remembrance this genuine disciple of Christ (as posterity soon forgets the greatest of its ancestors), his friends have placed the portraits of himself and wife in front of the original pulpit. There in central posi- tion the illustrious couple stand. Another remarkable character in the ranks of these early Metho- dists was Captain Jonathan Nichols, at whose house at West Thomp- son preaching was established as early as 1795. In 1796, in an upper unfinished room of this house, which is yet standing near the church, the Conference of New England met. This notable Conference, the sixth held in New England, and the first and last at West Thompson, began September 19, and adjourned on the 2ist, Bishop Asbury pre- siding. There were thirty preachers present, some of whom came from the Province of Maine, and seven deacons and five elders were ordained. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 197 The preachers from Pomfret circuit were Joel Kitchen and Daniel Brunley. West Thompson in those early years was included in the large Pomfret circuit, which, in 1827, was changed to West Thompson circuit and embraced several neighboring towns. The first Methodist Church in Thompson was erected in 1797, a little east of where the church now stands; Rev. Daniel Ostrander preached the dedicatory sermon. In July, 1800, Bishops Asbury and Whatcoat preached on the same day in the first Methodist meeting-house. A Missionary Society in connection with this old church was organized in 1838. The present church edifice was built in 1841 and REV. E. J. SAMPSON. MRS. E. J. SAMPSON. dedicated July 5 of the same year by Joshua Soule, Senior Bishop of the Methodist Episcopal Church. It became the mother of thirteen churches, including those at Danielson, Eastford, East Woodstock, Xorth Grosvenor Dale, East Thompson, Webster, Putman and Atta- waugan. The Centennial of the Annual Conference already referred to was celebrated at West Thompson Church on Sunday, December 6, 1896. Great interest was manifest on this memorable occasion by many per- sons assembling from these respective churches to listen to the Pre- siding Elder, G. H. Bates, who delivered a most interesting and in- structive discourse. Through the generous assistance of N. S. Johnson, originally of West Thompson, now one of the successful business men of Putman, Mrs. Chamberlain and Elijah Nichols, the church underwent repairs in 1892-93. This society has a firm friend in Mr. J. W. Doane, who renders valuable assistance in the financial support of the church. 198 SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1793. John Allen 1795. Daniel Ostrander William Chapin 1796. Joel Kitchen D. Brunley 1797. Stephen Hull Joseph Crawford 1798. Daniel Ostrander Asa Heath 1799. William Thatcher 1800. Daniel Ostrander 1 80 1. Peter Vanast Phineas Peat James Annis 1802. John Nichols Samuel Goslin 1803. John Gove Dyer Burge 1804. Thomas Brenich Noble W. Thomas 1805. Joshua Crowell Thomas Rawlin 1806. Thomas Perry Elisha Streeter 1807. Ebenezer Washburn 1808. Hollis Sampson Abner Clark 1809. Isaac Bonney Samuel Cutler 1810-11. 1812. 1813. 1814. 1815. 1816. 1817. 1819. 1820. 1821. 1822. 1823. 1824. 1825. 1826. 1827. 1828. 1829. JOHN N. PERRIX, Sunday School Superintendent. '834-35- 1836. 1837-38. Theophilus Smith Philip Munger Theophilus Smith Joel Winch Job Pratt Elias Marble Job Pratt Edward Hyde John Walker Ebenezer rilakt- Benjamin Sabin Ebenezer Blake Amasa Cowles Joseph Ireson Joseph Ireson Samuel G. Atkins Elias Marble E. R. A very Elias Marble Milton French John W. Hardy John W. Case Heman Perry Milton French Heman Perry George Sutherland I. Bonney I. M. Bidwell 0. Robbins P. Townsend 1. M. Bidwell O. Robbins P. Sabin J. Lovejoy P. Sabin R. Gould J. Lovejoy Ben Paine R. Gould William Livesey Charles Virgin Ben Paine E. J. Scott Charles Virgin William Livesey P. T. Kenney Hector Bronson W. Rimbat J. W. Case SO U I 'ENIR HIS TOR Y l8 39 . 1840-41. 1842. 1843-44. 1845- 1846-47. 1848. 1849-50. 1851-52. 1853-54. 1855-56. 1857-58. I8 59 . 1860. 1861-62. 1863. Abram Holway 1864-65. George May 1866-70. Erastus Benton 1871-74. Benjamin C. Phelps 1875. Richard Livesey 1876-77. George Stearns 1878-79. James Mather 1880-82. Sidney Dean 1883-84. Edward A. Lyon 1885-86. Charles Morse 1886-88. B. M. Walker 1889-90. L. B. Bates 1891-92. George Burnham 1893-94. Albert M. Allen 1895-96. John W. Case 1897. John Cooper Silas S. Cummings Warren Emerson Samuel Fox S. V. B. Cross D. C. House Seth B. Chase Lorenzo W. Blood Charles Hammond \Valter P. Stoddard B. F. Raynor Daniel Brown D. G. Ashley J. Q. Adams T. W. Douglass E. J. Sampson PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees George Johnson, John N. Perrin, William Perrin, Her- bert Marsh, Mrs. Mary Marsh, Miss Sarah Swan. Sunday School Superintendent, John N. Perrin; Assistant Su- perintendent, Herbert Marsh; Treasurer, John M. Perrin; Secretary, Miss Jennie Perrin; Librarian, Herbert Marsh; Organist, Miss Lillie Case. Teachers J. N. Perrin, E. J. Sampson, Miss Sadie Case, Miss Lillie Case, Mrs. M. F. Sampson; Reserve Teacher, Edw. Thompson. M. E. CHURCH, WILLIMANTIC, CONN. The first class was organized here in 1828, by Jonathan Fuller, though probably there had been preaching by Methodist ministers of the Mansfield Circuit since 1823. In 1827 the Rev. E. Dearborn, a local preacher, held services in an old schoolhouse, and a Deacon Lee of the Congregational Church . offered to donate $300 toward a Methodist church. The Methodists hesitated, and the offer was lost, go- ing to the Congregationalists. Rev. Horace Moulton came here in 1828 and held revival ser- vices in the homes of the two or three Methodist families. Thirty or forty were converted, who, in spite of much opposition from the Bap- tists and Congregationalists, became the nucleus of the present church. Some $800 was raised by Mr. Moul- ton, and a chapel was built. This chapel was dedicated in the Fall of 1828, the Rev. Wilbur Fisk preach- ing the dedicatory sermon from Psalms, xcv., 5. In 1829 Willimantic was made a Sabbath appointment on Tolland THE WILLIMANTIC CHURCH. Circuit. The first church stood on the site of the "Atwood Block," opposite Railroad Street. The site was purchased for $125. he house cost $700. The building, since removed, stands near the present church edifice, on Church Street. The early Trustees were Apollos Perkins, Jonathan Fuller, William C. Brown and Luther Jacobs. The present church was begun in 1850, when Jonathan Cady was the minister. It cost about $7,000. After dedication a debt of about $5,000 re- mained. The dedicatory sermon was preached by the Rev. Stephen Olin. WILLIMANTIC PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 201 The last of the indebtedness was liquidated during the pastorate of Rev. George W. Brewster, in 1865. The building was extensively repaired without, and considerably refurnished and decorated within, REV L. G. HORTON. MRS. L. G. HORTON. and a commodious parsonage was built during the pastorate of Rev. Edgar F. Clark. During the ministry of Rev. S. McBurney the church was lengthened and altered at an expense of $7,000, all of which was W. C. LYMAN, Sunday School Superintendent. H. E. ANTHONY. Epworth League President. raised, leaving no indebtedness. Great credit is due Mr. McBurney for all this. Many glorious revivals have taken place in the history of this old 2O2 SOUVENIR HISTORY. church. One especially to be noted occurred while S. J. Carroll was here, continuing one hundred consecutive nights with blessed results. Among the laymen who have helped to make this church a power in the past may be named Ralph Williams, Seymour Davenport, Elias P. Brown, Lewis Burlingham, Henry Hine, Orlando Little, Thomas Turner, Lyman Jordan (Rev. D. A. Jordan's father), Warren Atwood. "These all died in the faith." 1823. 1824. 1825. 1826. 1827. 1828. 1829. 1830. 1831- 1832. 1833. 1836. 1837- 1838. 1839- 1840-41. 1842. 1843- 1844. 1845-46. J. McKee J. W. Case J. Ireson E. Frink B. Lambert H. Benson I. M. Bidwell D. Fletcher Horace Moulton H. Ramsdell H. Moulton Paul Townsend E. Beebe George May J. E. Risley Hebron Vincent K. Ward S. Heath Mosely Dwight Philetus Green S. Leonard H. Torbush K. Ward Reuben Ransom Pardon T. Kenney A. C. Wheat F. W. Bill Charles Noble John Cooper PASTORS. 1847- 1848-49. 1850-51. 1852-53- 1854. 1855-56. 1857-58. 1859. 1 860-6 1. 1862-63. 1864-66. 1867-69. 1870-71. 1872. 1873- 1874. I875-77- 1878. 1879-80. 1881-82. 1883-85. 1886. 1887-89. 1890-91. 1892. I893-95- 1896. 1897. Daniel Dorchester A. H. Robinson Jonathan Cady M. P. Alderman George W. Rogers Charles Morse William Turkington John Livesey William Kellen E.- B. Bradford George W. Brewster Edgar F. Clark George E. Reed Charles S. Macreading Shadrach Leader George W. Miller S. J. Carroll William T. Worth A. J. Church S. McBurney D. P. Leavitt Eben Tirrell C. W. Holden A. P. Palmer D. N. Stafford O. W. Scott W. A. Luce L. G. Horton PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees D. C. Card, D. W. Conant, H. C. Hall, D. H. Barstow, Robert Mitchell, W. C. Lyman, J. G. Mitchell, W. H. Burlingham. Stewards James Purdie, W. H. Burlingham, W. C. Norris, H. Anthony, W. H. Bissell, Van B. Jordan, D. W. Conant, Charles Mitchell, J. G. Davoll, R. B. Brown, Mrs. R. B. Brown, Charles Brad- ley, F. P. Davoll. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 203 Sunday School Superintendent, W. C. Lyman; Assistant, D. W. Conant; Secretary and Treasurer, John G. Mitchell; Librarian, Will- iam Mitchell; Superintendent Infant Department, Mrs. Marion Storrs. Teachers W. C. Norris, James Purdie, George Phillips, Charles Mitchell, Annie Pomeroy, Phoebe Edson, Lois Burnham, Mrs. George Phillips, Mrs. Lyman Loomis, Mrs. R. B. Brown, H. E. Anthony, Marion Storrs, Carrie Jordan, Jennie Jackson. Epworth League President, H. E. Anthony; First Vice-President, Maud Richard; Second Vice-President, Lena Webber; Third Vice- President, Charles Mitchell; Fourth Vice-President, Lottie Swift; Sec- retary. Imogene A. Fillmore; Treasurer, Emma D. Fuller. M. E. CHURCH, WINDSORVILLE, CONN. In the year 1824 Rev. Moses Fifield held preaching services in the old schoolhouse which stood a few rods in a northerly direction from the site on which atferward was built the first Methodist church in this vicinity. Meetings were also held in several private houses in the neighborhood not far from where Aunt Chloe Hamilton now lives. Sister Hamilton, now 90 years of age, distinctly remembers those early days in Methodism here. A gracious revival attended Mr. Fi- field's labors, and a church was soon formed. Another revival took place in 1826 under the labors of Erastus Otis and Daniel Fletcher, which added a goodly number to the new society. In the month of February, 1829, land was deeded to the society, and during the year the first church was built at a cost of $1,000. Israel Allen gave $100, which was the largest subscription, while others gave smaller sums down to $i. For several years the seats used were made from slabs. This church was located on a piece of land lying between the roads just east from where the present schoolhouse now stands, being about half a mile northeasterly from the village of Windsorville. Pre- vious to building the church quarterly meetings were sometimes held in a grove near the old schoolhouse. THE WINDSORVILLE CHURCH. 204 SOUl'ENIR HISTORY- The trustees to whom the land was deeded were as follows : Amos Sweatman, Chester Blodgett, Joseph Hamilton, James McFall and Josiah Ellsworth. The same year in which the church was built East Windsor first appears as a circuit in the minutes and included the following preach- ing places : Warehouse Point, Wapping, Rye Street and Ketch Mills, the latter being the name of what is now Windsorville. In 1839 Ketch Mills was connected with Vernon, in 1844 with Somers, in 1845 with Broad Brook. In 1846 Ketch Mills appears alone in the minutes, till 1850, when the name was changed to Windsorville. REV. MERRICK RANSOM. MRS. FLOR1NDA RANSOM. During the year 1858 the old church was moved into the village, a distance of nearly half a mile, to the site of the present church, and repaired at a cost of $1,600. This building was destroyed by fire December 4, 1876. It was insured for the sum of $1,500. The following year the present church was built and dedicated, Rev. M. J. Talbot, D. D., preaching the sermon. The following- named men from this church became Methodist ministers, viz., Rev. Ralph W. Allen, Albert M. Allen, Sanford Amadon and Albert Booth, the latter now a member of the New York East Conference. Miss Aurelia Clark went from this church a missionary to the Flathead Indians in Oregon. The following from this church became wives of Methodist min- Maria Ellsworth married Rev. Moses Stoddard, Ann Ells- worth married Lorenzo Bolles, Emily Ellsworth married Albert M. len, formerly a member of the Providence Conference; Elvira Allen married Rev. John Carlwell. Delina Allen married David Merrill and SOUVENIR HISTORY. 205 Emeline Moody married A. A. Presbrey, formerly of this Conference. Thus in the past years a goodly number have gone from this church and found many and wider fields of usefulness in the Master's service. 1829. 1830. 1831. 1832. 1833- 1834. 1835- '830-37- 1838. 1839. 1840. 1841. 1842. 1843- 1844. 1845-46. 1847- 1848. 1849-50. 1851. 1852. PASTORS. George Sutherland Edmund M. Beebe H. S. Ramsdell Horace Moulton John W. Case Philo Hawkes Edmund M. Beebe Edmund M. Beebe S. Hull Samuel Drake Pardon T. Kenney Windsor Ward Freeman Nutting Charles A. Carter S. Hull Benjamin M. Walker C. D. Rogers Lorenzo W. Blood E. A. Standish Marvin Lemngwell Squire B. Haskall Supplied (unknown) John F. Blanchard Sewall Lamberton James B. Weeks Horace Atwater William S. Simmons John W. Case E. A. Standish J. H. Soule 1854. 1855- 1856. 1857-58. 18^9-60. 1861-62. 1863-64. 1865-66. 1867-69. 1870. 1871-72. 1873- 1874. 1875-76. 1877-78. 1879-81. 1882. 1883-85. 1886-87. 1888. 1889-90. 1891. 1892. 1893. 1894-95. 1896-97. Albert Booth Albert M. Allen William Phillips G. D. Boynton Lozien Pierce Warren Emerson T. W. Douglass Frederic C. Newell W. H. Burns H. S. Ramsdell Benjamin M. Walker Tosiah C. Allen Seth B. Chase Lorenzo W. Blood Supplied by Andrews and Church Otis E. Thayer John Lovejoy William Turkington Charles Hammond H. M. Cole S. V. B. Cross Thomas C. Denrhan Edwin G. Babcock Clark Perry Clark Perry John Pearse William D. Woodward C. W. Ruoff Merrick- Ransom PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees President,. Bradley I. Skinner; H. E. Rowley, James H. House, Newbury C. Durkee, Hendrick Belknap, Charles E. Ladd, Louise H. Foster, Anna M. Rowley, Ezra Greene. Stewards Bradley I. Skinner, H. E. Rowley, N. C. Durkee, Daniel Beeman, Anna M. Rowley, Anna M. Skinner, Sarah A. Ladd, Louise Foster, Jane Pinney, Alfred Hayes. Sunday School Superintendent, the Pastor; Assistant Superin- tendent, Bradley I. Skinner; Secretary, Miss Ethel Eastman; Treas- urer, Miss Hattie Barber; Librarian, Merton Bartlett. M. E. CHURCH, TOLLAND, CONN. In May. 1789. at the Conference held in New York Jesse Lee was appointed as the preacher for New England. On the nth of June he arrived in the State of Connecticut and six days later preached his first sermon in New England at ;Norwalk. Five years be- fore, at the invitation of Bishop Asbury, Lee ad- justed his affairs, procured a horse, saddle bags, a Bi- ble and a hymn book, the necessary equipments for a Methodist minister in those early days, and start- ed out on a career which has made his name immor- tal. In 1790 the Hartford circuit included Wilbra- ham. Mass., Tolland, Hartford, Windsor, Suffield, Granby, Enfield, \Yinterbury, Middletown and other nearby towns. Jesse Lee preached the first Methodist sermon ever heard in Tolland, April 2, 1790. Many were converted, and a class was formed. TOLLAND, LEE CHURCH. OLD TOLLAXD CHURCH AND PARSONAGE, WHERE BISHOP ASBURY PREACHED. Monday, August IT, 1793, the first Methodist Annual Confer- ever held in Connecticut and the second in New England was here. Ten or twelve ministers were present. The sessions of SOUVENIR HISTORY. 207 the Conference were held in the northeast corner room of the house now occupied as a parsonage. The preaching service was held in the partially finished chapel. Bishop Asbury was present and preached -on II. Timothy 11:24-26, "The servant of the Lord must not strive," etc. The text was peculiarly apt for the people and the time, for Dr. Williams of the Congregational Church had recently bitterly at- tacked the Methodist Church usages and doctrines. Dr. Williams afterwards acknowledged his mistake, and invited Methodists to hold prayer meetings at his home. On Monday, October 4, 1790, Jesse Lee arrived at the Conference then in session in New York. He asked for additional workers for New England. The appointments for this section were as follows: REV. J. Q. ADAMS. MRS. J. Q. ADAMS. Presiding Elder, Jesse Lee; Fairfield Circuit, John Bloodgood; New Haven Circuit, John Lee; Hartford Circuit, Nathaniel B. Mills; Boston Circuit, Jesse Lee and Daniel Smith. As Tolland was included in the Hartford Circuit, we find that Nathaniel B. Mills was the first preacher appointed to Tolland, although Jesse Lee preached the first Methodist sermon there. At the Conference at New York in 1791, Lemuel Smith and Men- zies Rainor were the preachers appointed to Hartford Circuit. During the year an "extensive reformation prevailed on this circuit." At Tol- iand and the neighboring villages the interest was especially profound. Asbury estimates that 150 souls were converted here. In 1792, Hope Hull, George Roberts and F. Aldridge were appointed to Hartford Circuit. The revival spirit which had begun here the year before ex- tended like fire under the labors of Hull and his colleagues. It left in 208 SOU V EN 1 R HISTORY. Tolland such distinct traces that a small society was formed and a chapel erected. With this society the Conference met in 1793. This Conference was the first ever held in Connecticut and the second in New England. The first Methodist meeting house or chapel in Tolland was erected in 1793. It stood on the same site of our present Lee church. j. P. ROOT, Sunday School Superintendent. J. J. RHODES, Epworth League President. In 1807 a lease for the land on which the chapel was built was given to the trustees of the Methodist society. A copy of the lease now in possession of J. P. Root, chairman of the present board of trustees, reads as follows: "Know all men by these presents: That we, Thomas Howard and Harvey Howard, both of Tolland, in Tolland county, for the consideration of the love, goodwill, and affection which we have and bear towards the Methodist religion, do lease unto Elijah Haskell, John Norris, John Stanley, Samuel Norris and Moses Barnard, all of Tolland, Trustees, * * for and during the term of nine hundred and ninety-nine years * * ." The sessions of the Conference were held in the house now used as a parsonage, while the preaching ser- vice was held in the unfinished chapel, Bishop Asbury preaching MRS. ALICE STEELE. from II. Timothy, ii., 24-26. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 209 In 1794 Tolland Circuit appears for the first time in the Conference returns. The first Methodist meeting-house was erected in Tolland in 1793. It stood on the site of the present Lee Church, on land owned by a Mr. Howard. In 1807 a lease for the land on which the chapel was built was given to the Trustees of the society. Among the large number of useful men converted at about this time, 1816, were Erastus Benton, Sanford Benton, Seth Crowell and Eleazor Steele. All natives of Tolland, and grand and powerful Methodist preachers. In August, 1794, Bishop Asbury is again in Tolland. He writes in his journals as follows: "Thursday, the 7th, a day of rest and afflic- tion of body. Came to Tolland very sick. I find my soul stayed upon God in perfect love, and wait His holy will in all things." On Thursday, September u, 1794, Jesse Lee, as presiding elder, NATHAN PIERSON, Originator of Wesley Chapel. MISS NETTIE PIERSON. rode into Tolland, only to find the little band of Methodists wrecked by persecution. He preached on the text Acts xvii : 6. In 1800 Rev. John Broadhead, presiding elder, and Rev. S. Bost- wick, at Tolland, jointly sent a letter. In it they say: "There has been a great work in Tolland, in the old town ; but it afterwards broke out in another part of the town, and about 65 members were added." Asa Kent was pastor part of the year 1802. He afterwards wrote of that year thus: "D. Ostrander, the presiding elder, took me to Tolland circuit, to take the place of E. Batchelor, who was sick. I stayed there till November 8, and received $12.83; poor encourage- ment, so far as money was concerned. My clothes were threadbare entirely out after more than a year's travel, and I had been obliged to borrow money to get along, besides giving my note for my horse; but faith in God gained the victory." 2IO SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. The oldest records of the Methodist Episcopal church in Tolland date back to 1839, and only one preacher was appointed that year, indi- cating that Tolland had become a separate station. In 1832 Rev. R. W. Allen begun his ministry at Tolland. 1880 he wrote: "Tolland! What associations it awakens! Tolland circuit was my first in the itinerant life, and can I forget it? Never, never. Oh, how I would like to go back to that old battlefield and see and experience what I then saw and experienced. * * The Sabbath appointments for the circuit were Tolland, Stafford Springs, West Stafford, Square Pond, and Willington." In 1860 George A. Morse was stationed at Tolland. He preached two years, teaching school in Winter. He was very successful in reach- MRS. C. N. JOSLIN, Sunday School Superintendent. L. W. JACOBS, President Y. P. S. C. E. ing some of the most' wicked men in town. But this was not all, for he found here a certain young lady, Miss Sarah A. Chapman, who afterward became his wife. In 1873 Nelson Goodrich was appointed to this charge, and began to hold meetings in the east part of the town, at what was then known as Tolland Depot. Under his labors and those of his successor, Rev. L. S. Goodell, there was a general awakening. So in 1874 a new so- ciety was formed, consisting of thirteen members, and Nathan Pierson appointed leader. In 1876 a meeting-house was built. This church is Wesley Chapel. On Wednesday, May 5, 1880, the present Lee Church was dedi- cated, Rev. Samuel McBurney preaching the dedicatory sermon. For some time the need of a parsonage had been felt. Finally in the Fall of 1886 an opportunity presented itself. A house near the SOUVENIR HISTORY. 211 church was secured for $800. The sum of $435 was immediately spent in putting the building- in good condition. The parsonage is valuable not only for its nearness to the church, but because of its associations, to which reference has already been made. 1790. 1791. PASTORS. Jesse Lee 1817-39. Nathaniel B. Mills Lemuel Smith E, Withe v A. Hale rd ay wood Menzies Rainor R. W. Allen (1832) 1792. Hope Hull and others George Roberts 1839. Benj. C. Phelps F. Albridge 1840. Winsor Ward 1793- Joseph Lovell 1841-42. L. Lemngwell 1794. Lemuel Smith 1843- C. Turner George Pickering 1844. Abram Holway 1795. Christopher Spry 1845- William Leonard Nicholas Snethen 1846. H. Torbush 1796. Evan Rogers 1847- L. Dow Bentley Thomas Cooper William Dixon 1797-98. Lawrence McCoombs Rev. Mr. Stoddard 1799. Daniel Ostrander Josiah Benton 1800. Abner Wood ^55- H. W. Smith 1801. Augustus Jocelyn 1856. Jabez Pack Henry Fames 1858. Caleb D. Rogers 1802. Elijah Batchelor 1860. T. W. Douglas Alexander McLean George A. Morse 1803. Augustus Jocelyn 1861-62. George A. Morse Elijah Batchelor 1873- Nelson Goodrich 1804. John Gave 1874- L. S. Goodell 1805-6. Noble W. Thomas 1880-82. William Turkington Benj. Hill 1848. William W. Hurd 1807. Hollis Sampson 1863. L. A. Dunham G. R. Norris 1864-66. Benj. M. Walker 1808. Benj. F. Lombard 1867-68. H. H. Arnold 1809. Benj. P. Hill 1869. F. A. Metcalf William P. Hinman 1871. E. L. Latham 1816. Solomon Winchester W. Dixon Nathan Paine 1872. E. L. Latham 1817-39. Benj. Sabine 1875- D. G. Ashley Ebenezer Blake 1876-77. J. Cooper Daniel Dorchester 1878. J. O. Dodge M. Fifield 1883. F. A. Crafts William Ramsdell 1884-85. J. H. Sherman "FTi-mll 1886-88. J. B. Ackley Oti" 1890-93. John Thompson John W. Case 1894-96. J. B. Ackley i - Wolcott 1897. J. Q. Adams M. E. CHURCH, VERNON, CONN. The Methodist Church at Vernon, like most Methodist churches, had its origin in a Class Meeting. Its first leader \vas James Whitney. Henry Bennett was twice appointed to this office. Students from Weslevan University, Middletown, preached in the THE VERNON CHURCH. schoolhouse until it was too small to accommodate the increasing con- gregation. This suggested a House of Worship, and S. S. Talcott, John H. Dobson, G. H. Miner and E. P. Clarke were chosen to purchase the Universalist Church edifice in Bolton, formerly a Methodist church. THE VERNON PARSONAGE. In June the house was taken down and removed to a building lot bought of Dudley Morris for the purpose. It was enlarged and the SOUVENIR HISTORY. 2I 3 interior remodeled, and through the efforts of Miss Emma Dobson, was furnished with an organ. Miss Dobson gave her services as or- ganist. The house was dedicated in the October following, President REV. D. W. ADAMS. MRS. D. W. ADAMS. Chadbourne of Wesleyan University preaching the dedicatory sermon. From this time until 1872 the church was supplied with preaching from Wesleyan University. A resident pastor was considered necessary in 1872, and an in- GEORGE N. PHELPS, Sunday School Superintendent. MRS. S. MARIA WALKER. Epworth League President. crease of salary assured. S. S. Talcott and George Miner bought the place adjoining the church property on the west to hold as a parson- . A SOUVENIR HISTORY- 2I 4 age, and Rev. S. O. Benton was sent from the Conference to this field. He says in recording his first Sunday's experience among this people: "A congregation of about forty made their way over muddy roads and through a driving rain and sleet to hear and greet the 'new minister.' The cordiality of that meeting will not be forgotten by the pastor." In this year the studying of the "International Series" began in the Sunday School. The house of worship was improved by removing the plaster and substituting a board ceiling. A cabinet organ, costing $300, was placed in the audience room, being chiefly the generous gift of S. S. Talcott. The church was newly upholstered, at a cost of $350. This expense was assumed by the Ladies' Aid Society. At the close of Rev. W. A. Taylor's pastor- ate, in 1886, it was voted to unite the two churches of Wapping and Vernon, the preacher to reside at Wapping. Mr. Hamman succeeded Mr. Taylor and remained one year. From this time until 1892 the church had temporary supply, and following this an interregnum of about three years, with no pastor and a closed church, until the appointment of the present incumbent, D. W. Adams, who has served the church since February, 1895. In 1895 improvements were made upon the interior of the church edifice, a convenient vestry being the result. The same year an Epworth League. was organized with about forty members, under the efficient president, Mrs. S. Maria Walker, who has served the League in this capacity from its organization until January, 1898. The League has continued to grow in numbers and usefulness. The Ladies' Aid Society, with Mrs. S. E. Talcott as president, is a true handmaiden of the church, both as a social and financial factor. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stewards W. E. Chamberlin, S. F. Perkins, R. M. Walker, G. N. Phelps, W. S. Belding, N. H. Lee, L. A. Merrill, Mrs. S. E. Talcott, Miss Lydia Talcott. Recording Steward Mrs. S. E. Talcott. Treasurer S. F. Perkins. Trustees R. M. Walker, N. H. Lee, A. Parker, W. E. Chamber- lin, W. S. Belding, S. F. Perkins, S. E. Talcott, W. Wilkie, G. N. Phelps. Sunday School Superintendent, G. N. Phelps; Librarian, Charles Belding: Secretary and Treasurer, A. Chamberlin; Organist, Mrs. Albert Parker. Epworth League President, D. W. Reynolds; First Vice Presi- dent, Israel Johnson; Second Vice President, Mrs. W. E. Chamberlin; T?W i e President > Miss Louise Allen; Fourth Vice President, Mrs. D. W. Reynolds; Treasurer, Arthur Chamberlin; Secretary, A. T. Adams. M. E. CHURCH, STERLING, CONN. The town of Sterling was originally a part of Voluntown. It oc- cupies the southeast corner of Windham county, and is nine miles long, with an average width of three miles. It was incorporated in 1794. The town was named in honor of John Sterling, who gave the town a public library. The first meeting-house erected in this town was in THE STERLING C 1797 Baptist. Some years ago there was a strong desire for a new church in Sterling. A series of meetings were held in private houses in the fall of 1892, under the leadership of Mrs. Alice Haynor of Oneco. The Sterling Dying & Finishing Company interested itself in the project and kindly permitted the people to worship in one of its unused rooms. Various pastors from the neighboring churches preached for the people until February, 1893, when Rev. S. G. Dorsey STERLING DYING & FINISHING COMPANY. 2l6 SOUVENIR HISTORY. was appointed pastor in charge. Some time previous to this a scheme was set on foot to build a place of worship. Mr. Checkley Hall very generously donated a very suitable lot of land on which to build. February 2Oth, 1895, the present Methodist church was dedicated amid great rejoicing. Rev. L. B. Bates, D. D., of Boston, preached the dedicatory sermon. Rev. Mr. Dorsey re- mained pastor until April, 1896. Rev. S. V. B. Cross was then appointed pastor, and has been pastor since then. The Sun- day school was organized some months before the erection of the church. George Marsh was the first superintendent. But his work soon called him away, and Matthew Barr was appointed in his place, and has served in that capacity ever since. NORWICH DISTRICT LEAGUE. By Charles Mitchell. Rapid growth has not been the distinguishing characteristic of the Norwich District League. There has been growth of a healthy, substantial sort. In work attempted and work done we may claim a worthy place with our sister Leagues of the New England Southern Conference. About ten years ago the Norwich District League was organized. Faithful, earnest work was done to make it a power in the direction of young people's work in our churches. Able, devoted men, many of whom are now doing noble work on the other districts, presided over its affairs; and their work has told in the upbuilding of a strong, help- ful organization. The Norwich District League comprises the following chapters: Baltic, Burnside, Danielson, Attawaugan, East Glastonbury, East Blackstone, East Hampton, East Thompson, Hockanum, Jewett City, Lyme, Manchester, Mapleville, Mashapaug, Millville, Moodus, Moosup, Mystic, New London, Noank, Norwich, Old Mystic, Quar- ryville, Portland, Putnam, Rockville, South Coventry, South Man- chester, Stafford Springs, Staffordville, Thompsonville, Tolland, Uncasville, Vernon, Wapping, Westerly, Willimantic. These thirty- seven chapters show an aggregate membership of 1650. The annual convention, at which officers are elected and the busi- ness of the year transacted, is held in the month of October. The District is divided into sub-districts, in which conventions are held from time to time. These smaller gatherings are useful in bringing the chapters into close touch with each other and stimulating them to a rivalry in good works. The outlook is bright. There is a spirit of hopefulness and a zeal for work which speaks well for the future. While we work for and expect results, we are looking with faith and confidence to Him who giveth the increase. VOLUME III SOUVENIR HISTORY New England Southern Conference IN THREE VOLUMES VOL. I. NEW BEDFORD DISTRICT VOL. II. NORWICH DISTRICT VOL. III. PROVIDENCE DISTRICT VOL. III. PROVIDENCE DISTRICT COMPILED AND EDITED BY REV. RENNETTS C. MILLER, S. T. B. Pastor, Methodist Episcopal Church, Nantasket, Mass. HISTORICAL SKETCH OF CONFERENCE BY REV. M. J. TALBOT, D. D. IT CONTAINS SPECIAL HISTORICAL SKETCHES OF THE DISTRICT, THE CAMPMEETING ASSOCIATIONS, THE DISTRICT EPWORTH LEAGUE, THE VARIOUS SOCIAL UNIONS, AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS; HIS- TORICAL SKETCH OF EACH CHURCH, WITH OVER FOUR HUNDRED ENGRAVINGS OK CHURCHES, PARSONAGES, PASTORS, PASTORS' WIVES, SUNDAY-SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS, KPWORTH LEAGUE PRESIDENTS, PROMINENT LAYMEN, ETC. OVER THREE HUNDRED PAGES. PICTURES AND BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES OF THE SUPERANNUATES, ETC. 1897 PUBLISHED 1897 WITH CONFERENCE CONSENT AND APPROVAL, BY REV. RENNETTS C. MILLER, NANTASKET, MASS. COPYRIGHT, 1897, BY REV. RENNBTTS C. MILLER. I DEDICATE THIS VOLUME TTo /IDs Mite, IN LOVING GRATITUDE FOR HER INVALUABLE ASSISTANCE, GOOD JUDGMENT, AND CONSTANT INSPIRATION AMIDST THE IRKSOME AND OFTEN DIS- COURAGING WORK OF PUBLISH- ING THIS HISTORY. EDITORIAL NOTES. After about fourteen months of labor in addition to my regular pastoral work, I send forth this third and last volume of the Souvenir History to the public. The many kind words that have been said about Volumes I. and II. have been very gratifying. It is hoped that this volume may even more fully meet the expectation of the public. The individual church sketches have been written mostly by the present pastors, unless otherwise indicated. Those marked * * * indicate that the sketch was not written by the present pastor. Here we might make special mention of the fact that the closing paragraphs of Central Church, Brockton, Mathewson Street, Providence, Centre- ville, R. I., and a few others were written by the Editor. Occasionally the Editor has added important historical facts in the churches that have come to him fully authenticated. We wish to call special attention to the very interesting "Intro- duction" by the Presiding Elder, Dr. E. C. Bass. It is an exceedingly valuable contribution to the History. In the Scituate church sketch is a picture of the "Old Oaken Bucket." Here it may be stated further that this is a recent picture of the famous Old Oaken Bucket well at the home where Samuel Woodworth lived when young and caught the inspiration to write his great song. After much correspondence and inquiry we have still failed to get the pictures of all the deceased members of the Conference. However, only a few are wanting. In regard to these we may be allowed to quote from the Editor's Introduction of Volume I: "As the countless friends and spiritual children of these heroes of earlier days look upon their faces in these pages, doubtless many tender and sacred memories will be revived. If some lukewarm and, perhaps, back-slidden souls, 'Seeing, shall take heart again,' I shall feel that I have not spent in vain the many precious hours upon this History." It is needless to add that the Editor is glad to find his part of the work is completed. It has been a great burden from first to last. But the many words of cheer from the members of the Conference, and others, have encouraged him to not grow weary. Doubtless the editorial part of the work will not bear the severest VII SOUVENIR HISTORY. scrutiny, but the Editor has tried to do it faithfully and conscientiously in the general interests of the pastors, laymen, and churches. A perusal of this volume will bring to the attention of the public that at least three Methodist writers of no mean reputation reside within the bounds of this district, viz. : Mrs. O. W. Scott, wife of Rev. O. W. Scott of Campello, (South St., Brockton), Mass., Lanta Wilson Smith, wife of Rev. C. H. Smith, at Phenix, R. I., and Rev. Dallas Lore Sharp. Inasmuch as the Editor failed to call attention to Mr. Sharp in connection with his church (Porter Church, East Wey- mouth) sketch, he may here add that Mr. Sharp has written a brilliant work entitled "The Life and Times of Christ," that for two years has been running in the National Magazine. He is also a con- stant contributor to some of the leading magazines. We wish to call special attention to the general index of the three volumes found at the close of this volume. Again, we commend to the public the American Engraving Co., of Boston, who have made, with a few exceptions, the engravings for this volume. The press work has been done by J. E. Farwell & Co., Boston, whose long established office and superior work is worthy of the patronage of our people. Lastly, I want to give credit where credit is due. I owe a great debt of gratitude to the three Presiding Elders, Rev. T. J. Everett, Rev. G. H. Bates, and Rev. E. C. Bass, D. D., for their hearty co-operation and priceless counsel in many ways. I cheerfully acknowledge, once more, the invaluable assistance of Rev. W. I. Ward, whose proof- reading and counsel have spared this volume from many a blunder. I thank, too, most heartily the pastors for their help and encourage- ment. Again, I acknowledge my indebtedness to her to whom I have dedicated this third volume. She has toiled patiently night and day these many months, entering heartily into every part of the work. To her good judgment and sweet counsel, as well as arduous labors, more than all else, perhaps, is clue whatever success has attended the publication of this History. Doubtless many errors will appear, but if the public could only know our tireless efforts to prevent them it would hesitate long before indulging in severe criticism. RENNETTS C. MILLER. Nantasket, Mass., Mar. 18. 1898. INDEX OF VOLUME III.* THE CHURCHES. Arnold's Mills 5 Newport Thames St 119 Attleboro 9 North Easton 125 Berkeley, (R. I.) 14 North Stoushton 215 Bristol 18 Pawtucket First 129 Brockton, Central 25 Pawtucket Thomson 133 Brockton, Franklin 30 Phoenix 136 Brockton, Pearl Street 33 Pontiac Swedish 140 Brockton, South Street 37 Portsmouth 141 Brockton, Swedish 41 Providence Asbury 147 Central Falls 42 Providence Broadway 150 Centreville, (R. I.) 45 Providence Chestnut St 154 Chartley 48 Providence Cranston St 158 Cochesett 53 Providence Haven 162 Drownville 55 Providence Hope St 166 East Brain tree 57 Providence Math ewson St 170 East Greenwich 59 Providence St. Paul's 181 East Mansfield. First 200 Providence Swedish 199 East Weymouth 63 Providence Tabernacle 185 East Weymouth, Porter 72 Providence Trinity 188 Foxboro 74 Providence Wanskuck 238 Hanover 77 Providence Washington Park 191 Hebronville 80 Rockland Central 195 Hill's Grove 82 Rockland Hatherly 196 Hing-ham 85 Scituate 202 Holbrook 88 South Braintree 208 Hope 91 Stoughton 212 Hope Valley 94 Wakeficld 217 Hull 97 Wanskuck III., 220 Mansfield 101 Warren 221 Nantasket 105 Washington 225 Newport First 112 West Abington 228 Newport Middletown 117 Wickford 232 Newport Swedish 124 Woonsocket 235 SPECIAL ARTICLES. Brockton Meth. Social Union 23 Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting. .XVII Conference Home Missions XXVII Martha's Vineyard Revival XXXIX Conference Resolutions 276-279 Nutting, J. H., and His Work XLII Cuinmings, S. S., and His Work XLV Providence Deaconess Home XXXI East Greenwich Academy XXI Providence District Epworth League. ...2 Fall River Deaconess Home XXXV Providence Meth. Social Union 145 Hamlen, G. M., and His Work XL VII Superannuates Biography 269-75 Historical Sketch of Conference.... XIII Statistical Report fifty years ago -280-283 Introduction by E. C. Bass, D. D X Woman's Foreign Miss'y Society XLI James, J. H., and His Work XLV Women's Home Miss'y Society XXIX SPECIAL PICTURES. Bass, Rev. E. C 1 Loheed, W. J 22 Seals, W. E 23 Martha's Vineyard Camp-Meeting East Greenwich Academy XVIII XIX XX, XXI XXII., XXIIL, XXVL, 111 Old Oaken Bucket 206 Everett, Mrs. T. J. XXIX Parkin, Rev. Frank P 26 Pall River Deaconesses XXXVII Presiding Elders 261 Fall River Deaconess Home XXXV Providence Deaconesses XXVII Farnham, J. E. C 145 Providence Deaconess Home XXXI Flint, John D XXXVI Tregaskis, James XLVIII Jones, Edwin F XLVIII DISTINGUISHED METHODIST MINISTERS FORMERLY MEM- BERS OF OUR CONFERENCE. Bates, L. B 263 Nutter, C. S 264 Bidwell, Ira G. (deceased) 251 Payne, C. H 262 BInney, Amos (deceased) 263 Pitblado, C. B 268 Canoll, A. (deceased) 251 Raymond, B. P 262 Chapman, J. A. M 264 Reed Geo. E 262 Dorchester, Daniel 262 Steele W F 262 Gallagher, C. W 264 Stevens, Abel 268 Goodell, C. L 264 Taylor, E. M 264 Gracey, S. L 263 Taylor, E. T. (deceased) 263 Haynes, Emory J 264 Townsend. L. T 262 Hatfield, R. M. (deceased) 263 Trafton, Mark 263 Hamilton, J. Benson 251 Upham, S. F 262 Hutchinson, B. W 26S Wagner, F J 262 Jordan, D. A 264 Whedon, D. D 251 Klmball, H. D 264 Whitaker, N. T 251 MacDonald, Wm 264 Worth, W. T 264 MeChesney, Ensign 263 "For a general index of the three volumes see close of Vol. III. INTRODUCTION TO PROVIDENCE DISTRICT. By E. C. Bass, D. D., Presiding Elder. Rhode Island, the smallest State in the Union, was a very large part of New England in colonial days. A letter was once sent from JEngland to some person "in New York, near Newport, R. I." Pre- vious to 1776 Newport was the chief city of America. Jesse Lee visited Rhode Island the first week of September, 1789, and preached in Charlestown the 3d of that month. This was the first sermon by a Methodist itinerant in the land of Roger Williams. The next year, on his way to the "Old Elm," in Boston he must needs go through this territory he preached in Newport (June 30), and in Bristol (July 2, 1790), and also in Warren and Providence. In Warren he was admitted to the pulpits of other denominations. In Providence he preached five times in a private house and several times in the Court House. Ten miles from Providence (would that we knew the spot) Lee met Garretson and famous "Black Harry," returning from Nova Scotia. Garretson and Harry visited Providence, where both preached the latter to a congregation of more than i ,000. In '91 Bishop Asbury was in Newport, June 16-17; in Bristol, June 18; in Providence, June 19. That same year, November n, Lee found his way to General Lippitt's, in Cranston (near Phenix), and preached to the general and his family. Enoch Mudge the first native New Englander to join the Con- ference had his first appointment within this territory on Greenwich circuit in '93. Zadoc Priest was the first Methodist minister to die in New Eng- land, and his death and burial were here, in Norton, Mass. He died June 22, 1/96, in his 27th year, having reached two and one-half years. So early and so well was this territory hallowed ! In '92 Providence was one of the four circuits in New England, and Lemuel Smith was preacher in charge. In '93 the circuits in this territory were Warren and Greenwich. Warren circuit included New- port, Bristol, Cranston, Povidence and "several places in Massachu- setts." Our first church edifice was erected in Warren and dedicated by Lee September, 24. '94. His text was Hag. ii., 9. That same year Lee was again at General Lippitt's and found Mrs. Lippitt and daughter seeking spiritual light, having been awak- ened by a sermon preached one year before. The parents and daugh- ter all became members of "the church in their house." The general built a chapel on his estate for the use of the Methodists. That chapel X SOUVENIR HISTORY. became a place for great quarterly meetings. On such occasions Mrs. Lippitt would lodge thirty guests in her fifteen spare beds. Asbury was at Lippitt's July 12, 1800; and June 12, 1802, Asbury and What- coat were both at Lippitt's, and there ordained several preachers, who could not be at the Conference session. Another fit Mecca for all Methodists of this District and Confer- ence is in Norton (near the grave of young Priest), where, in 1805, the third camp-meeting in New England, and the first east of the Con- necticut River, was held, on the estate of "Father Newcomb," at whose home Priest ended his earthly career. At that camp-meeting George Pickering presided, assisted by eleven members of the Con- ference and several local preachers, among them Lorenzo Dow. In 1798 Joshua Hall was in charge of Providence Circuit, and lived in Providence. November 24 he organized a class of five persons Ann Remington, Martha Clark, Mehitable Potter, Shubal Cady and his wife Annie. The first baptism by a Methodist minister in Providence was in 1801, Joseph Snelling officiating. John Finnegan was the first Meth- odist minister to administer the Lord's Supper in Providence. The date was August 22, 1801. There were twelve communicants. The first quarterly meeting in Providence was held August 12-13, I ^O3. It was held in the Town House. George Pickering preached. Sep- tember. 15, 1803, the society had thirty-three members. Our first house of worship in Providence was dedicated June 8, 1816, on the corner of Aborn and Washington streets. January I, '22, Chestnut Street Church was dedicated. In '33 fifty members colon- ized on the East Side, at the corner of Power and South Main streets. For five years, 1793-97, our circuits were Greenwich, Warren and Newport. In 1803 the names were Providence, Norton, Mass., and Newport. The name New England Conference did not appear until 1800. Up to that year the one annual Conference of Methodism in America was held in sections. Then there was no General Conference and no legislation was completed until every section of the Annual Confer- ence had acted. The names of districts appeared in 1801, and this territory was in Boston District until 1813. From '13 to '30 Providence and vicinity were in New London District. In 1830 the present good name was first used, and, excepting the period from '43 to '48, has been in use ever since. During that period the District embracing Providence was New Bedford. The boundaries of Providence District have been changed again and again. In '39 Worcester and Lowell were in this District. In SOUVENIR HISTORY. XI 1840 Fall River, New Bedford. Edgartown and Nantucket were in Providence District. For three years this District was extended to the Connecticut River. It now includes all but five of our churches in Rhode Island, and extends from Hope Valley and Wakefield in Rhode Island to Hull and Scituate in Massachusetts. Great and good men formerly presided over this territory Jesse Lee, Ezekiel Cooper, George Pickering, Joshua Taylor, John Brod- head, Asa Kent, Erastus Otis, J. A. Merrill, Orange Scott, Bartholo- mew Otheman. A few of the appointments of the early days are worth recalling: '93 Greenwich, D. Kendall and Enoch Mudge; Warren, Philip Wager. '99 Warren, John Brodhead; Greenwich, Stephen Hull; Provi- dence, Joshua Hall. 1826 Providence, Asa Kent; Bristol, Edward T. Taylor; New- port, Enoch Mudge. '34 East Greenwich, James Porter; Bristol, Jefferson Hascall. '37 Providence, East, Abel Stevens. '39 Providence, West, A. D. Merrill. Twenty-seven annual Conference sessions have been held on Providence District. The New England Conference met at Bristol in '16, and in Providence in '23 and '32. The first session of Providence Conference was held in Providence in '41, and eleven subsequent ses- sions have been held in the same city. Bristol has entertained this Conference twice, Newport and Brockton each three times, and four annual sessions have been held in Warren; and this Conference, or- ganized in 1840, meets at Attleboro in '98 its twenty-fifth session on this District in fifty-eight years. The first report of members on our present territory was in 1793, and as follows: Greenville, 16; Warren, 58. The slow, but steady and substantial growth of Methodism within the present limits of Providence District appears in the following figures: Members. 1798 162 1811 604 1821 1,107 1831 1,662 1841 Charges, 19 2,625 1851 Charges, 26 2,829 1861 Charges, 33 3.762 1871 Charges. 38 5-595 1881 Charges, 45 6,479 1891 Charges. 64 8,451 1897 Charges, 65 8,865 XII SOUVENIR HISTORY Charles Wesley once or more visited this territory and preached at Newport, and Asbury traversed this territory several times. It was at Newport that he beheld for the first time a steeple on a Methodist church and that same steeple the first in all Methodism in America, if not first in all Methodism still stands, and the most devout English- speaking congregation in the District worships within that venerable house of worship, notwithstanding the lament (and prophecy?) of the good bishop. It is to be hoped that this beautiful Souvenir History of Provi- dence District, so rich, and yet so meager, in its records of heroic men and times, will inspire the churches of to-day and to-morrow to make better history, and to leave better records of their work. REV. XORRIS G. LTPPITT. 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OOOO OO OOO >n g O O o o O O o o o o o o o o o o o o o o OOO O OOO O .000000*0 001 0*00 tiO-^COC^iOiCt^- o i OG^'iO o o CO M O O t- oooo 10 O CM O CO 2 H - S o . a g s * Sri 1 *r - > < r-< M Z s ^.3 ,j -3 ,T3 Q O tf) 73 02 ^5 ^ CJ 3 0} j a s * g a tj -a ic o3 s JC^^oSO^H T3^, jj "? 2*>H^"'"S'o*' ' " s aj 3 > bf B 2 uth Coventry Mission, insfleld, est Thompson, st -S-c^ ? =i arehouse Point, itico, tch Mills, mers, anchester, C5 ^^ XVI SOUVENIR HISTORY. gQ C w SO O O CO O O O i 88 o ic o f. at to to 1-1 5 O OO I-H 1O OS O CM 00 EH O * o 10 o ic co i-l CM -H I-H CM M ODOOt~O(Nt~OSCS o OQ 1C co o X cc O 1C O O O 1C O 00 I- CO OS O oo-*icooooso _ COCOCOCO'fCOCM^H-*^ CO 3 co o o os CO O_0 00 .? CO X i-H CO 10 1 CO CO -oo 5 O O 1C CO O ^ a a s a * S^ C +j +i 73 +j 25' ojOSccoaojMos'O, P 5 S3, :f i! V- S 0< 3 -g P X S rt = -O ." e 5 .2 < ifi H il fc REV. EDWARD C. BASS, D. D. Presiding Elder Providence District. Rev. Edward Gary Bass was born at Moretown, Vt., Oct. 5, 1836. His parents were of old New England families. The first of his ancestors in America, who died in 1694, was a deacon in the Congregational church in Braintree, Mass., for fifty years. His father's home was a " Methodist Tavern " for the clerical itinerants. Four of his mother's brothers were honored members of Annual Conferences. He was converted at the age of sixteen, and received an exporter's license three years later. His first sermon was delivered in West Newbury, Vt., in July, 1855. He was licensed a local preacher in 1856. He received his college education at the Uni- versity of Vermont, graduating in 1859. After graduation he spent two years teaching in Kentucky and Arkansas. In April, 1861 he married Miss Lucia R. Blair of Burlington, Vt., and soon after entered the Vermont Conference. His first appointment was Pittsfield, with a salary of $300. The record of his thirty - six years in the ministry is as follows : Fourteen years in the Vermont Conference ; eleven years in the New Hampshire Conference ; three years in the Maine Conference, and eight years in this Conference. In all these Conferences he has served several of the largest churches. While all of his partorates have been marked by a deep spiritual work, those at Springfield, Vt.; Lawrence, Mass.; St. Johnsbury, Plymouth, Vt.; and at Lebanon, N. H., were specially blest with spiritual harvests, without aid of evangelists. At Lebanon, N. H., a $2800 debt, at Taunton, First church, a $4000 debt, and at Newport a $7000 debt, were lifted from the churches. In 1884, he represented the New Hampshire Conference at the General Conference. In the same year his Alma Mater conferred upon him the degree of D. D. He was appointed Presiding Elder April 1896. " Two years ago Dr. Bass brought to the eldership to which he was appointed, a mature judgment, a sym- metrical character, a frank, genial, lovable spirit, and the strength of a long and successful record in the pastor- ate." His presence and wise counsels are proving a great inspiration to the district. PROVIDENCE DISTRICT EPWORTH LEAGUE. By Rev. E. F. Studley. We are largely indebted to Mrs. I. L. James, the faithful Record- ing Secretary of the District League, till her health compelled her to resign, for these facts, the first and larger part of this article being her composition, and originally appeared in "The League Light." Early in March, 1890, a circular issued by Presiding Elder D. A. Jordan was sent to all young people's societies connected with the Methodist churches on Providence District, to convene in the Mathew- son Street Church, Providence, for the purpose of organizing a Dis- trict Epworth League. In response to the call 127 delegates, repre- senting i, 600 young people, were present. After organization the offi- cers were elected, with Rev. J. F. Cooper of Middletown as president, and a constitution, prepared by Revs. F. P. Parkin, S. O. Benton and B. F. Simon, adopted. The evening session was devoted to addresses upon the work of the League. During this year sub-district conventions were held at Campello, Warren and Middletown, and League Day was observed at Hebron camp-meeting. Much of the work of this year was necessarily ex- perimental, but at the annual convention, held at Attleboro, October I, 1890, the reports of the officers showed the necessity and practicability of the designs of the District League, and its continued existence was assured. At this time Rev. S. H. Day was elected president, to suc- ceed Rev. J. F. Cooper, who declined to serve another year. September 22, 1891, the District League assembled in East Wey- mouth. Early in the year the president, Rev. S. H. Day, had been transferred to Morgantown, W. Va. This somewhat hindered the progress of the League, as his well-planned work for the year could not be accomplished. The first vice-president declining to serve, the work fell upon the second vice-president, Rev. L. G. Horton, who, in spite of these difficulties, carried forward the year's work faithfully and successfully. Five new leagues were formed, nearly all the leagues adopted the constitution of the Epworth League, and numerically the leagues increased ten per cent. Profitable conventions were held at Drownville and Hebron camp ground. Rev. L. G. Horton was elected president for the ensuing year. The fourth annual convention was held in the Broadway Church, Providence, September 28, 1892. Rev. L. G. Horton was re-elected president. The work accomplished during the year past was similar to that of preceding years the formation of new leagues and the bringing of societies bearing other names, but having the same aims, SOUVENIR HISTORY. 3 into harmony with the ideas and methods of work of the Epworth League. At this session the constitution was revised. At Mansfield, September 27, 1893, the fifth annual convention was held. During this year there had existed several unions of local leagues, which in part took the place of the group conventions that had been so helpful in preceding years. Taken as a whole, the year's work showed a gain along all lines. The marked increase in the num- ber of junior leagues was a most encouraging feature. Rev. C. E. Beals of Mansfield was elected president. Upon invitation of Embury Chapter, Central Falls, the annual convention was held with them, September 26, 1894. This was a year of sub-district conventions. These were held at Attleboro, Brockton Central Church and East Weymouth, and were as helpful and inspiring as those held annually. Four new leagues were formed, and general prosperity marked the work of the year. Mr. E. W. Thrasher of Attleboro succeeded the retiring president, Rev. C. E. Beals. St. Paul's Church, Providence, was the meeting place of the next annual convention. The interest and enthusiasm of preceding con- vention sessions were equalled, if not exceeded. Sub-district conven- tions \v ere held during the year at Wickford, Hope and Campello, and evening mass meetings at Trinity Church, Providence, Warren, Paw- tucket and East Greenwich. An especial effort had been made by the president to stimulate the leagues by personal visitation and helpful correspondence. A gain in interest in the literary, and mercy and help departments was noticeable from the reports read. For the year 1895-96, the following officers were elected: President, Rev. Elliott F. Studley; First Vice-President, Mrs. Rev. Sherman E. Ellis; Second Vice-President, Mrs. J. L. Ingraham; Third \ice-President, Mr. Herbert E. Drake; Fourth Vice-President, Miss Celia I. Booth; Corresponding Secretary, Rev. Florus L. Streeter; Recording Secretary, Mrs. I. L. James; Treasurer, Mr. C. C. Phillips; Superintendent Junior League Work, Rev. L. G. Horton. At the beginning of this year the "League Light" was established. Its object was to contain a directory of the officers of the chapters, to be a means of communication between the district officers and the members, and to contain items of local news. Rallies were held at Wakefield and Chestnut Street Church, Providence, and the officers visited and addressed a number of the League chapters. The next convention was held, on invitation, with the chapter at Bristol, R. L, on the 23d of September, 1896. In spite of the near approach of the convention of the First General District in Provi- dence, there was a good attendance, and the following officers were elected : SOUl'EXIR HISTORY. 4 President, C. C. Phillips; First Vice-President, Miss Margaret E. Eckley; Second Vice-President, Mrs. J. L. Ingraham; Third Vice- President, Rev. E. F. Studley; Fourth Vice-President, Miss Celia I. Booth; Corresponding Secretary, Rev. Ambrie Field; Recording Sec- retary, Miss F. F. Ferguson; Treasurer, Mr. E. W. Thrasher; Super- intendent of Junior League Work, Rev. L. G. Horton. It was voted to continue "League Light," under the charge of the Third Vice-President. During these seven years the original membership of 1,600 has doubled, there being about 58 chapters at present, and 24 Junior Leagues have been organized, reporting a membership in April of 1,139- The last annual convention was held in Hope Street Church, Providence, July 7, 1897. It was an inspiring occasion. The officers elected for the year are as follows : President, Mr. John M. Nye, Phenix, R. I.; First Vice-President, Miss Mary L. Thurston, Newport, R.-L; Second Vice-President, Miss Emma E. Carey, Bristol, R. L; Third Vice-President, Rev. E. F. Studley, Mansfield, Mass.; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. Herbert Lovell, Brockton, Mass.; Corresponding Secretary, Rev. Ambrie Field, East Greenwich, R. L; Treasurer, Mr. W. W. Chase, Provi- dence, R. I.; Superintendent Junior League Work, Rev. J. S. Bridge- ford, Providence, R. I. ARNOLD'S MILLS CHURCH. M. E. CHURCH, ARNOLD'S MILLS, R. I. The history of this church previous to 1845 ' ls ver T meagre. In 1791 Jesse Lee preached in this vicinity. The service is said to have been held in the house now occupied by Mr. Wilson White, on the Sheldonville road. A Mr. Hathaway attended a camp-meeting in Massachusetts at which Jesse Lee was present and delivered one of his cap- tivating discourses. At the conclusion of the sermon Hathaway invited Lee to visit his house in Cumber- land to hold a service, and Lee preached at Hathaway' s house the first Methodist sermon in Cumberland, the town in which Arnold's Mills is situated. In 1799 the little society was taken into the confines of the Warren circuit. For many years the society was too small and weak to build a church, and class-meetings, as well as preaching services, were held at the home of Mr. John Bishop, 2nd, who was a deacon in the "Free Will Baptist Church." .Among the earliest itinerants who visited Cumberland was the Rev. Joshua Hall, under whose earnest labors the first revival of re- ligion occurred, and the Revs. Thomas Norris, who joined the Confer- ence in 1811, and Van Rensselaer Osborn, who found his wife in Cum- berland, in the person of Alpha Bishop. About 1825 Rev. Joshua Soule visited the community and held meetings at Deacon Bishop's. The first house of worship occupied by the Methodists was the Catholic Baptist meeting-house, situated on the road from Arnold's Mills to Pawtucket, on the site now covered by the house of Mr. Eugene Crowninshield. Services were held in this place during the summer months only. In the winter meetings were held in the school- house at Arnold's Mills, the church not being provided with stoves. This arrangement continued until the erection of the present edifice, which was dedicated February 17, 1827. The church was built under the leadership of the Rev. Benjamin F. Lambord, who preached the dedicatory sermon. The church edifice was not the property of the church. The Methodists were to have the preference in its occupancy; 6 SOL'l'KXIR HISTORY. but when they did not use it, any other religious denomination might do so. Among those actively interested in promoting the new church en- terprise may be mentioned the Walcotts, William, Rufus, Milton and John; Lewis and Enoch Ar- nold, William Sweetland, Harrison Holmes, Columbia Tingley, Joel Hawkins, Wil- lard Haskell, Alexander Thompson, John and Na- thaniel Newell. April 10, 1830, Israel Washburn and James Por- ter received licenses as local preachers and were recom- mended t6 the Annual Con- ference for ordination. During the pastorate of Rev. George Stone (1835-36) an unfortu- nate schism occurred, caused by several members withdrawing be- cause they disapproved the Methodist Episcopal polity. During the pastorate of Rev. H. W. Houghton the church edifice ARNOLD'S MILLS PARSONAGE. REV. J. G. GAMMONS. MRS. J. G. GAMMONS. was extensively repaired, and February 18, 1847, ^ was re-dedicated, Frederick Upham, D. D., preaching the sermon from Isaiah ii, 3. In 1853 Rev. E. S. Stanley was appointed to this, his first charge. During his second year he directed and "worked with his own hands," in the erection of the parsonage. SOUVENIR HISTORY. LOUIS W. BISHOP. Sunday School Superintendent. In 1860 Joel E. Hawkins (now a member of this Conference) was licensed to preach, and in 1862 was recommended for admission to the Annual Conference. The Rev. F. C. Newell's pastorate (1870-72) was marked by tem- poral and spiritual progress. Exten- sive improvements were made in the church edifice and parsonage. Fifteen conversions were report- ed the first year, and several in each of the following two years. Mr. Newell married his second wife, Louise B. Hawkins, here. The next pastor, Benjamin A. Chase, was instrumental in securing a new bell for the church, and the first time it was rung for a public ser- vice it was tolled for the pastor's funeral. Mr. Chase died August 17, 1874, aged 41 years, of consumption, leaving a widow and three young children. In 1880 the name of the charge was changed from East Cumberland to Diamond Hill. In 1883, the pastor, B. F. Simon, opened preaching services at Ashton, on alternate Sunday afternoons. Rev. W. B. Heath, the next pastor, also supplied at Ashton, and during his pastorate (1884-86) the name of this charge was changed from Diamond Hill to Arnold's Mills. Under the administration of Rev. L. G. Horton (1887-89) the church edifice was thoroughly repaired at a cost of v$ 1,850, which was all raised during this very successful pastorate. The church was re- dedicated January 22, 1888, with a sermon by Rev. D. H. Ela, D. D. Text, Matt, xvi, 18. June 30, 1888, the present Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor was organized. Rev. Richard Burn was the first pastor to serve this church the full term of five years (1891-1895). During the present pastorate another mission has been started in the village of Sheldonville, and a class of seventeen was organized July 27, 1896. During the past year (1897), under the leadership of J. G. Gam- mons, the church has been painted on the outside and frescoed in oils on the inside, and the parsonage painted on the inside and re-carpeted, at an expense of $600, all of which has been paid. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1827. 1828. 1829-30. 1831. 1832. I833-34. 1835-36. 1837-38. 1839-40. 1841. 1842. 1843. 1844. 1845-46. 1847-48. 1849- 1850. 1851-52- 1853-54. 1855-56. PASTORS. Daniel Fletcher 1857-58. Robert Gould 1859. Benjamin Paine 1860-61. David Culver 1862-63. Joseph Ireson 1864-66. Peter Sabin 1867. George Stone 1868-69. David L. Winslow 1870-72. J. Bailey 1 873-74. Joseph McReading J 875- Franklin Fisk 1876-78. Otis Wilder 1879-80. Nathaniel Bemis 1881-82. H. W. Houghton 1883. Charles Noble 1884-86. J. B. Weeks 1887-89. Lawton Cady 1890. Charles Hammond 1891-95. E. S. Stanley 1896. A. Worthing 1897. Abel Gardner E. F. Hincks R. Donkersly William Kellen T. B. Gurney Noble Fisk A. A. Presbrey F. C. Newell B. A. Chase Anthony Palmer Philo Hawkes J. F. Sheffield V. W. Matioon B. F. Simon W. B. Heath L. G. Horton D. L. Brown R. Burn N. B. Cook J. G. Gammons PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stewards W. H. Millard (Recording), D. O. Cargill (District), C. O. Flagg, W. H. Flagg, A. B. Gould, B. F. Taylor, Mrs. A. E. Taylor, Mrs. E. D. Cargill, Mrs. J. E. Newell, Miss A. M. Cargill, Miss E. N. Arnold, Miss Mary E. Follett, Miss Mary A. Razee. Trustees William H. Millard, David O. Cargill, Charles O. Flagg, Walter H. Flagg, Andrew B. Gould, Brainerd F. Taylor, Jason Newell, Neil D. Mackenzie, George E. Bowen. Class Leaders David Alexander, Alfred Nash. Sunday School Superintendent, Louis W. Bishop; Secretary and Treasurer, Mary E. Richards; Librarian, Clarence Flagg. Teachers David O. Cargill, Louis W. Bishop, Nellie C. Metcalf, Mary L. Newell, Mary E. Richards. Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor President, G. Dal- las Jencks; Vice-President, Nellie C. Metcalf; Corresponding Secre- tray, Mary L. Newell; Recording Secretary, Mary E. Skeels; Treas- urer, Raymond C. Sutton. M. E. CHURCH, ATTLEBORO, MASS. Methodist itinerants preached the gospel in this town for several years prior to the establishment of the present church. In 1838, in what is now North Attleboro, a Methodist Church was established and promised to be- come a strong church. But in 1842 "Milleritism" in- vaded, divided and finally extin- guished it. The names of Fletcher, Cady, Brewster and Mathews are found among its pastors. In 1858 Methodist meetings were held in what is now the town of Attleboro, then called East Attle- boro. Mr. Dean, a local preacher, la- bored here and a number of con- versions occurred. Another local preacher by the name of Baker also labored here. But the results were not perma- nent in either case. A company of Christians, one day in the Fall of 1865, were passing through the village to attend a Sunday school convention, and some of them remarked that this was a good place for missionary work. On November 24, 1865, D. H. Ela, then pastor of our church in Pawtucket, and the Hon. John Davis, a prominent layman of the same church since Governor of the State of Rhode Island and now Mayor of the City of Pawtucket, established a meeting here. A hall was hired and November 26, 1865, D. H. Ela preached the first ser- mon. In the afternoon a sermon was preached by I. J. Lansing. On the following Sabbath, December 3, a Sabbath School, num- bering 46 persons, of all ages, was organized. The pulpit was supplied every Sabbath till the next Conference by Rev. I. J. Lansing. The church was organized with 12 members in March, 1866. At the Conference held in Bristol, March, 1866, Attleboro applied for a minister and Alexander Anderson became by appointment their regular pastor. The Lord poured out His spirit upon the people and souls were THE ATTLEBORO CHURCH. 10 SOUVENIR HISTORY. converted at nearly all the services. In the early Autumn of 1866 the ground was broken for a new church, and on the 26th of November the corner stone was laid. The vestry was occupied on the first Sabbath in June, 1867, and on February 23, 1869, the church was dedicated, Mark Trafton, D. D., preaching the sermon. The church waxed strong, numerically and spiritually, during the three years of Mr. Anderson's pastorate, and continued to prosper through succeeding pastorates. Following Mr. Anderson came that astute theologian, H. D. Rob- inson, whose thorough expo- sition of the Gospel strength- ened the faith of the people in the Word, and who, with his clear knowledge of Methodist laws, did much toward strengthening the church in Methodism. Then came the mild, gentle-spirited W. H. Starr, who strengthened the work already done. THE ATTLEBORO PARSONAGE. He was followed by that Boanerges of New England Southern Methodism, E. D. Hall, whose work was very successful and his name lingers in precious memory still with the people. REV. G. W. HUNT. MRS. G. W. HUNT. J. C. Gowan, that most thorough, indefatigable worker, came next, and the results of his work still remain in a number of staunch supporters of the Church. SOUVENIR HISTORY- II The tall, straight, manly A. W. Seavey was much beloved in the succeeding pastorate and when he left us, early, for his heavenly home, many hearts in this charge were bereaved. George W. Ballou, a sweet singer and good preacher, followed, and left for a Western Conference by transfer during his second year. Then came that man of God, J. W. Willett, who has recently gone to his eternal reward. His integrity of character, devotion to the right, fearless denunciations of the wrong and wrongdoers, made him both feared and loved. During all these pastorates the Church grew in numbers and ex- F. B. WILMARTH. Epworth League President. F. W. LINCOLN. Sunday School Superintendent. tended its influence for good in the community. It was hindered somewhat in its work by a debt on the church property of $5,000. J. A. L. Rich followed Mr. Willett and immediately saw the need of removing this incumbrance. He decided to make an. effort to clear it off. And after earnest and prayerful work he succeeded. A Jubilee reunion in recognition of the payment of the Church debt was held November 20 and 21, 1883. Many former pastors were present and the people rejoiced. In about a month after the Church had been freed from debt, on the morning of December 23, 1883, it was totally destroyed by fire. The people rallied undismayed under the leadership of Mr. Rich and immediately appointed a committee to rebuild on the same site. The new building was completed in March, 1885, at a cost of about $25,000. A debt of $5,000 remained on the property, which is being gradually reduced. Bishop C. D. Foss preached the dedicatory sermon. 12 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Mr. Rich was succeeded by Warren A. Luce, whose strong pulpit work is still referred to frequently by the people. Then came Walter Ela, who was removed at the close of his sec- ond year and appointed Presiding Elder of the New Bedford District. He was followed by Archibald McCord, who resigned his pastor- ate to enter the Congregational ministry. Then came that plain, con- secrated man of God, Richard Povey, whose words of truth still bring forth fruit in the lives of many who yet remain in the Church. He was followed by the genial, cheerful George E. Brightman, and then came the present incumbent, George W. Hunt. During Mr. Brightman's pastorate Union revival services were held with the Congregational and Baptist Churches, under the direc- tion of Evangelist Gillam. The communitv was thoroughly aroused and scores of souls were D. E. ADAMS. President Board Trustees. C. SIDNEY SMITH. Past S. S. Supt. saved. About sixty united with the Methodist Church on probation, nearly all of whom remained on probation when the present pastorate was assumed, and all but four were received into full membership. During Mr. Povey 's residence the present parsonage, one of the best in the Conference, was built. The financial responsibility was assumed by the "Home Mission Society," a society of the women in the Church. They have kept it well furnished and hope to pay the last dollar of the expense incurred in building in a few months. The officers at present are: President, Mrs. Warren Parker; Secretary, Mrs. A. R. Macom- ber; Treasurer, Mrs. H. A. Wexell. The present pastorate will be marked as having had the honor of entertaining the Annual Conference in the Spring of 1898. SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1866-68. 1869-70. 1871-72. I873-74- 1875-76. 1877-78. 1879. 1 880-8 1. A. Anderson H. D. Robinson W. H. Starr E. D. Hall J. C. Gowan J. W. Willett A. W. Seavey G. W. Ballon 1882-84. T. A. L. Rich 1885-86. W. A. Luce 1887-88. Walter Ela 1880. A. McCord 1890-92. R. Povey 1893-95. G. E. Brightman 1806. G. W. Hunt PRESENT OFFICIARY. Local Elder Rev. A. C. Eddy. Trustees D. E. Adams, President; A. M. Everett, Secretary and Treasurer; Freeman Robbins, J. W. Luther, G. L. Whitman, J. W. Gifford, F. W. Lincoln, C. W. Chase. Stewards W. H. McCoombs (R. S.), J. M. Fisher, F. M. Ellis, W. C. Dix, Warren Parker, George L. Taylor, A. C. Luther, E. Blake, W. J. Grant, G. E. Collins, W. E. Springer, Albert Harris, W. A. Campbell. Class Leaders Freeman Robbins, W. H. McCoombs, C. Sidney Smith. Sunday School Superintendent, F. W. Lincoln; Assistant Su- perintendent, J. W. Ford; Secretary, George L. Hunt; Superintend- ent Primary Department, Miss Ida Wilkinson; Assistant, Misa Belle Anthony; Superintendent Home Department, Mrs. J. W. Luther. Epworth League President, F. B. Wilmarth; First Vice-Presi- dent, C. W. Chase; Second Vice-President, Miss Ida Wilkinson; Third Vice-President, Miss C. Edna Smith; Fourth Vice-President, Miss Florence Everett; Secretary, Miss Alice Fisher; Treasurer, Albert Harris. Junior League Superintendent, Miss Lillian Small. M. E. CHURCH, BERKELEY, R. I. In the fall of 1882, October 20, three young men, Archie Rankin. Hartley A. Ridgeway and David F. Tomblinson, hired Foresters' Hall for one Sabbath afternoon's preaching service. The large audience which attended encouraged them to repeat the enterprise next Sabbath. The preacher was Rev. C. A. Maryott. There was no intention on the part of these brethren to establish a permanent organization. Their purpose is thus stated by Hartley A. Ridgeway: "To see more Christian work and sentiment in the com- munity." These Sabbath afternoon services were continued. January 4, 1883, a Christian Association was formed with 28 members. The usual constitution of a Y. M. C. A. was adopted, with \ THE BERKELEY CHURCH. two classes of members, active and associate. Women were admitted to membership. The first officers were: President, Archie Rankin; Vice-President, James S. Wild; Secretary, Hartley A. Ridgeway; Treasurer, Eli Mills. In July, 1883, B. F. Simon, pastor of the M. E. Church at Ar- nold's Mills, was engaged to preach every other Sabbath. On alter- nate Sabbaths preachers of different denominations occupied the pulpit. On October 14, 1883, a series of revival services was begun, conducted by Mr. Thomas G. Crocker. These meetings continued three weeks. As a result eighteen new members were added to the Association. In April, 1884, Rev. W. B. Heath, who succeeded Rev. B. F. Simon at Arnold's Mills, also succeeded him as preacher of the Asso- ciation. June u, 1884, he reported to his Quarterly Conference: "I SOUVENIR HISTORY. have been invited to preach at Ashton Village every other Sabbath at 3.30 o'clock, to a union association of Christians, composed prin- cipally of young people." July 4, 1885, a department for children was added. Miss Nannie Hedges and Mrs. Charlotte Mills were placed in charge. On March 13, 1887, this Association and the M. E. Church at Arnold's Mills were united as one pastoral charge, and in April, 1887, Rev. Lyman G. Horton was appointed by the Conference to Arnold's Mills and Ashton. On the seventh day of September, at a meeting called for that purpose, two questions were raised, namely: Shall we as an Association join a church? And if so, what denomination shall it be? Twenty-seven persons were present and twenty-seven votes were cast for a Methodist Episcopal Church. This Association had in all four presidents, Archie Rankin, James S. Wild, Hartley A. REV. E. G. BABCOCK. MRS. E. G. BABCOCK. Ridgeway and Eli Mills. Its largest number of members at any one time was seventy. The transformation of the Association into an M. E. Church pro- ceeded as follows: On September n, thirty-two persons joined the class. Eli Mills was chosen class leader. On November 22, the Pre- siding Elder, Rev. D. A. Jordan, visited this charge and organized the class into a Methodist Episcopal Church. He baptized one candi- date and received twenty-nine persons into full connection. The Quarterly Conference was organized, consisting of a Board of Trustees: Eli Mills, John T. Knott, William Crandall, William Grif- fith, James S. Wild, Thomas Simpson, Edward Greaves, John Barnes and Joseph Hollingsworth; and a Board of Stewards: Eli Mills, John i6 SOUVENIR HISTORY. T. Knott, William Cranclall, James S. Wild, Thomas Simpson, William Griffith, Charlotte Mills, Emma Hesford, Martha Halliday, Maria Waring, Mary E. Clegg, Sarah Bethel and S. L. Mitchell. Eli Mills was chosen Superintendent of the Sunday School. December 4, 1887, it was voted to name the church the Emanuel M. E. Church of Berkeley, R. I. A charter was granted at the Jan- uary session of the Legislature, 1888. The lot on which the church stands was purchased of the Berke- ley Mill Company for $640; $340 was raised by subscription and the remaining $300 was loaned by Eli Mills and John Barnes. On Sun- day, March 17, 1889, $660 was pledged, through the agency of the pastor, Lynian G. Horton, for the support of a pastor for next Con- L. SCRANTON. Epworth League President. GEO. HESFORD. Ex-Epworth League Pres. ference year. Great credit is due to Mr. Horton, under whose administration the Ashton Christian Association was transformed into the Berkeley M. E. Church. Charles Smith was appointed preacher in charge of the Berkeley Church at the Conference held in April, 1889. Subscriptions were at once commenced for the building of a church. Then a strike occurred in the Berkeley mill, that decreased the membership and strength of the society nearly one-half. Notwithstanding such discouragements, the building enterprise was pushed forward, and on November 23d of that year the corner stone of the church was laid in the presence of a large congregation. The church was dedicated April 13, 1890,. Rev. D. A. Jordan preaching the sermon. This church cost about $4,000. A debt of $1,725 was incurred. The superintendent of the Berkeley Mill Company, Mr. W. H. Magee, took a very active in- SOUVENIR HISTORY. terest in the building enterprise. He provided the larger part of the pulpit furniture, the chandelier, the carpet and the bell. He also had the grounds graded. After serving a pastorate of three years, Mr. Smith was succeeded by Alexander Anderson. During this pastorate the debt on the church lot was paid and several accessions were made to the church. In the spring of 1895 Mr. Ander- son was succeeded by Robert Clark, during whose service of one year $400 was paid on the church debt, the Ep worth League raising $100 of this amount. Mr. Clark was followed by W. F. Geisler, a student of Brown University, who rendered faithful ser- vice for one year and was succeeded by E. G. Babcock, the present pas- tor. Eli Mills, having served the church as Sunday School Superintendent for seven years out of the nine since its organization, declined re-election in January, 1897. The pastor has filled the office since. Three auxiliary societies have been of great service to the church, namely: The Helping Hand, the Young Men's Guild and the Ep- worth League. PASTORS THOMAS SIMPSON. 1889-91. Charles Smith 1896. 1892-94. Alexander Anderson 1897. 1895. Robert Clark W. F. Geisler E. G. Babcock PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees John Barnes, Eli Mills, Thomas Simpson, Thomas Johnson, John O. Bellows, Edward Greaves, David Alexander, An- drew B. Gould. Stewards Miss Ada B. Hedges (R. S.), George Hesford, Thomas Simpson (D. S.), Aleanah Hesford, Miss Annie Bellows, Miss Carrie M. Bellows, Miss Mary E. Clegg, Miss Minnie Hedges, Mrs. Bessie S. Rogers. Sunday School Superintendent, the Pastor; Assistant Superin- tendent, Miss Carrie Bellows; Secretary, George Hesford; Assistant Secretary, A. Hesford; Treasurer, Miss I. Hedges; Librarian, William i8 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Davis; Assistant Librarian, Fred Tomlinson; Organist, Miss E. Usher. Teachers Miss E. Kirkpatrick, Miss E. Usher, Mrs. A. Usher, Miss A. Moorhouse, Miss M. Hedges, Miss I. Hedges, Miss A. Bellows, Miss C. Bellows, Mrs. E. Mills, Mrs. J. Turner, Miss E. Edmundson, Mr. J. Edmundson, J. Wild. Epzvorth League President, George Hesford; First Vice-Presi- dent, Aleanah Hesford, Second Vice-President, Mary E. Clegg; Third Vice-President, Agnes Gibson; Secretary, Lofton Scranton; Treasurer, Mrs. Lofton Scranton. Junior League Superintendent, Miss Minnie Moorhouse; Assist- ant Superintendent, Miss Edith A. L'sher. Church Organist Mr. A. Wild. M. E. CHURCH, BRISTOL, R. I. The first class was formed in the spring of 1791. Jesse Lee visited Bristol in 1790, and preached at that time in the State House, THE BRIS TOL CHURCH July 2d. There was preaching every two weeks during the winter. Rev. Lemuel Smith was the first regularly stationed Methodist minis- SOUVENIR HISTORY. ter. The circviit of which Bristol was a part that year embraced East Greenwich, Providence, Warren, Somerset, Taunton and Easton. Bishop Coke visited Bristol in 1804, in June, and preached in the State House. Rev. Ezekiel Cooper had charge of the Boston district in 1793 and House Where Rev. Jesse Lee Preached the First Methodist Sermon in 1791. 1794. Rhode Island was a part of that district. Among the places he visited was Bristol, where, on Sunday, December i, 1793, the or- dinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper were for the first time REV. A. \V. KIXGSLUY. 1 JESS IK L. CARY. Junior League President. administered by the Methodists. In 1791 a sea captain was converted in the city of New York. He was a citizen of Bristol, and on his re- turn to his home, began to tell the story of his conversion. In about a year a little society was formed, consisting of eighteen members. 20 SOUVENIR HISTORY. This number increased from year to year, till in 1805 they were able to build a neat and commodious chapel. In 1812, a powerful revival occurred, when about 100 were converted. In 1820 another quickening- came to the infant church, and nearly 150 more are be- FRANK G. THURSTOX. GEO. H. PECK. Epworth League President. Sunday School Superintendent. lieved to have been saved. At intervals of several years marked re- vivals took place, and the growth and progress of the church have been constant and encouraging. From a letter still in existence, we learn that "Love Feasts'' were held in Bristol in 1787, and Bristol has the honor of being the place of the second earliest church in New England, Lynn, Mass., being the first. The first class of sixteen persons was formed in the spring of 1791. The following are their names: John Gladding and Rachel his wife, Sylvester AIun.ro and Sarah his wife, William Pearse and Mary his wife, William P. Waldron and Jemima his wife, Benjamin Doty, James Harding, Nancy Liscomb Deborah Lindsay, William Harding and three persons whose names are lost. The present State Street Church edifice was dedicated in Sep- tember, 1856, and many revivals have occurred since that time, the most notable being in 1867, during 1 the pastorate of Rev. T. S. Thomas. PASTORS. 1790. 1792. I794- 1798. Jesse Lee 1803. Lemuel Smith 1807. Jesse Lee 1808. Daniel Webb 1809. Jordan Rexford 1810. A. McLean Joseph Snelling Jordan Rexford Samuel Merwin Nehemiah Coy SOUVENIR HISTORY. 21 1846-47. Jonathan Cady 1848-49. R. Livesey 1850. I 1 '. Upham 1851-52. E. Grant 1853. Geo. W. Stearns 1854-55. H. H. Smith 1 856-57. A. McKeown 1858. William Livesey 1859. Henry Bayliss 1 860-6 1. David H. Ela 1862-6-3. Samuel F. Upham 1864. ' M. J. Talbot 1865-67. T. Snowden Thomas 1868-69. Daniel A. Whedon 1870. Geo. L. Westgate 1871-72. Edgar M. Smith 1873-74. W. T. Harlow : 875-77- Ed. Edson 1878-80. William V. Morrison 1881-82. Edwin F. Jones 1883-85. Edwin D. Hall 1886. Albert P. Palmer 1887-88. S. H. Day 1889-91. W. F. Davis 1892-94. W. J. Smith 1895. Augustus W. Kingsley PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Ezra Dixon, R. B. Franklin, William H. Maxfield, James T. Freeborn, George H. Peck, Robert Gregg, Thomas Pearse, F. T. Remieres. Class Leaders A. T. Marchant, E. Dixon. Stewards R. B. Franklin, Ambrose Waldron, F. T. Remieres, F. G. Blaisdell (D. S.), Edward Talbee, Ezra Dixon, George H. Peck (R. S.), Hugh Moffitt, John B. Gravlin, Walter Blaisdell, Clinton T. Sherman, Frank G. Thurston, Daniel Cruickshank. Sunday School Superintendent, George H. Peck; First Assistant, Frank G. Thurston; Second Assistant, Richard B. Franklin; Secretary, Herbert H. Congdon; Assistant, Allie Peck; Treasurer, Richard B. Franklin; Superintendent Infant Department, Miss Mattie B. Paull; Librarian, Seth Paull, Jr.; First Assistant, Oliver H. Blaisdell; Second Assistant, Joseph B. Congdon; Secretary Visiting Department, Miss Sadie Paull; Organist, Mrs. Minnie B. Pollock. Teachers Miss Myra F. Blaisdell, Miss Vesta Blaisdell, Miss Roxanna Paull, Miss Annie R. Thompson, Miss Elizabeth G. Moffitt, Miss Hattie L. Peckham, Miss Lillie Luther, Frank G. Thurston, 1812-13. Asa Kent 1814. Edward Hyde 1815. B. K. Hoyt 1816. John Lindsay 1817. B. Sabin 1818-19. T. W. Tucker 1820-21. Isaac Bonney 1822. J. W. Hardy 1823-24. T. Merritt 1825. P. Peck 1826. Ed. T. Taylor 1827. Chas. Virgin 1828. Leonard Griffin 1829. Isaac Bonney 1830. Ira M. Bidwell 1831. Lewis Bates 1832. Ephraim K. Avery 1833- Chas. K. True E. K. Avery 1834-35- J. Haskell 1836. John Lovejoy 1837-38. O. C. Bontecou 1839-40. E. Scott 1841. C. Noble 1842. V. R. Osborn 1843- H. Vincent 1844-45. Isaac Bonney 22 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Ambrose Waldron, Walter L. Blaisdell, Richard B. Franklin, A. F. Marchant, Mrs. Clara H. Whittemofe, Mrs. Thomas Pearse, Mrs. Betsey Wilcox, Mrs. Susie Wardwell, Mrs. Nancy B. Manchester, Mrs. Nancy R. Taylor, Mrs. Elizabeth Cruickshank. Epworth League President, Frank G. Thurston ; First Vice-Presi- dent, Mrs. Elizabeth Cruickshank; Second Vice-President, Mrs. Emma E. Cary; Third Vice-President, Miss Grace Paull; Fourth Vice- President, Mrs. Samuel Church; Secretary, Miss Lillie Luther; Treas- urer, Miss Sadie Paull. Junior League Superintendent, Miss Mattie B. Paull; President, Miss Bessie L. Cary; First Vice-President, Miss Inzie S. Pitts; Second Vice-President, Miss Eva May Elder; Third Vice-President, Maud G. Clark; Fourth Vice-President, Miss May D. Congdon; Secretary, Miss Leah B. Young; Treasurer, Miss Abbie M. Coggeshall. BROCKTON METHODIST SOCIAL UNION. By William E. Beals. For a long time the Methodists of Brockton and vicinity had felt that there should be some general organization in which they might all meet and come into a closer and more harmonious contact with each other. Accordingly, September 9, 1889, the Central M. E. Church through and at the instigation of its pastor, Rev. Frank P. Parkin, a large number of delegates met at the ladies' parlors of the Central M. E. Church, representing the following churches: Central, South Street, Franklin and Pearl Street churches of Brockton, Cochesett, North Easton, Stoughton, South Braintree, East Braintree, Whitman and East Bridgewater. The meeting was called to order by Rev. Frank P. Parkin, w r ho in a few words stated the object of the meeting. Charles W. E. BEALS, Lecturer. \V. J. LOHEED. Eaton was elected chairman and William E. Beals secretary of the meeting. After several short speeches, it was voted to organize a social union. Rev. Frank P. Parkin submitted a draft of a constitu- tion, which, with a few amendments, was adopted. Membership at first was $5 a year, afterwards $i. - The meetings have been profitable socially, intellectually and spiritually. A growing spirit of harmony and good will has encour- aged the churches. The usual order of exercises has been a social hour from 6 to 7 P. M., a supper from 7 to 8, speakers, music, etc., at 8 P. M. Among the many interesting and profitable evenings with speakers the following may be mentioned: May, 8, 1893, the late Rev. William N. Brodbeck, D. D., of Bos- ton, gave his popular address, "Why I Am a Methodist." 24 SOUVENIR HISTORY. October 9, 1893, Rev. Matt S. Hughes of Portland, Me. Sub- ject, "Religious Novelties." March 3, 1894, Rev. W. W. Ramsay, D. D., of Boston. Subject, "Methodism as a Social Force." May 15, 1894, Rev. C. M. Melden, Ph. D., of Brockton. Sub- ject, "The Age and Its Demands upon the Church." October 29, 1894, Rev. George A. Crawford, Ph, D., of Woburn, Subject, "Japan and Her Neighbors." March 18, 1895, Rev. John A. Galbraith of Boston. Subject, "The Future of New England Methodism as Indicated by Its Past and Present." May 27, 1895, Rev. J. W. Hamilton, D. D. Subject, "The New Era." October, 1895, Rev. John D. Pickles, Ph. D., of Boston. Sub- ject, "Rambles in the Land of the Pharaohs." December 9, 1895, Rev. Edwin H. Hughes of Newton Centre. Subject, "The Portrait of Jesus." February 17, 1896, Rev. C. B. Pitblado, D. D., of New York Sub- ject, "Peculiarities of Methodism.'' May n, 1896, Rev. O. W. Scott of Brockton. Subject, "The Epworth League in Its Relation to the Church, and Its Promise for the Future." November 16, 1896, Rev. George K. Morris, D. D., of Boston University. Subject, "Storage Batteries and Their Application to the Christian." January 25, 1897, Bishop W. F. Mallalieu, D. D. He gave an address full of wholesome advice and encouragement to the Brockton Methodists. The presidents who have served this organization are as follows: 1 889 and 1890, Charles Eaton of Central Church. 1891 and 1892, George W. Cobb of Campello. 1893, Lewis Alden of Holbrook. 1894, F. Herbert Snow of Franklin Church. 1895, B- L. Caswell of Campello. 1896 and 1897, William J. Loheed of Central Church. The Secretary and Treasurer of the organization from its begin- ning has been William E. Beals of Franklin Church. CENTRAL M. E. CHURCH, BROCKTON, MASS. Not until 1830 could enough Methodist families be found in North Bridgewater to organize a church. Receiving some accessions about this time, plans for building a church were formulated and the church at ''West Shares" (Brockton Heights) was built a year later. One Sabbath morning in Febru- ary, 1842, four brethren, while on their way to West Shares, con- ceived the idea of a church in the village, which materialized March 2, 1842, when the first sermon was preached by Rev. O. G. Smith in the Academy building on East Elm street. The society soon outgrew these accommodations and the Unitarian Church, then unoccupied, was secured. During the year the first class, consisting of thirty members, was organized, and about May ist a Sunday school, with forty-five members, was organized, with Liberty Pack- ard at its head. After using the Unitarian Church about one year, the society moved to Cobb's Hall, THE CENTRAL CHURCH. in the Metropolitan Hotel. Many members withdrew in consequence, and the society again moved, this time to Bennett's Hall, on the corner of Main and School streets. When three years of age, the society purchased a lot on "Metho- dists' Lane" (Church street), and built the Second M. E. Church of North Bridgewater, which was dedicated January 8, 1846, the dedi- catory sermon being delivered by Rev. Edward T. Taylor of Boston. Seven years later (1853) the church purchased an adjoining lot, sold the building to the Congregational Society in Hanover, where it now stands, and laid the corner stone of the new church July 25th. The Rev. Mr. Benton preached the first sermon in the new church, which was dedicated June i, 1854, in an unplastered vestry, to an audience seated on rude benches made of plank and boxes. The church continued to grow until 1859 when, through the crookedness of a certain man who was acting as agent for the board, while carrying a true indebtedness of $25,899.70, it found itself em- barrassed with liabilities to the amount of $61.171.10 an amount much 26 SOUVENIR HISTORY. larger than all the value of church and the individual property of the trustees combined. Further difficulties presented themselves. Some who had aided the church in money matters became crippled finan- REV. C. M. MBLDEN, PH. D. Pastor. 1894-97. Now President Clark University, South Atlanta, Ga. MRS. C. M. MELDEN. cially and were unable to help, while others deserted the church in its time of need. Two years of heroic effort reduced the debt to about $6,000. The creditors, however, became very restless and demanded the sale of the church: but on the day advertised for the sale not a single purchaser N. S. HOLMES. President Board Trustees. REV. FRANK P. PARKIN. Pastor, 1SS9-93. made his appearance. By timely aid from other churches in the con- ference and from those brethren who stepped between the trustees and the creditors the property was saved. SOU I 'EX IK HISTORY. 27 111 1871 a lot was purchased and a parsonage erected at a cost of $4,700. In this enterprise the Ladies' Sewing Circle took an active part, helping to raise the building fund and assuming the expense of fitting and furnishing the parsonage. The latter service is still per- formed by the circle. The birth of Brockton occurred in 1874 and the church took advantage of the opportunity and changed its name to the Central Methodist Episcopal Church of Brockton, and in 1876 became the banner church in the conference in its missionary collections. As a E. T. SAMPSON. Sunday School Superintendent. E. S. TRACY, M. D. Epworth L,eague President. calm follows a storm, so the years of difficulty were followed by peace and prosperity, which has been enjoyed to the present time. A Young People's Literary Society was organized during C. B. Pitblado's pastorate (1886-87). It \vas replaced by an Epworth League two years later, during the popular pastorate of Rev. Frank P. Parkin, and named by the young people "Parkin Chapter." Mr. Parkin's pastorate was one of the most successful in the history of the church. During it the church increased its salary from $1.400 to $2,000, ex- clusive of parsonage. It was during this pastorate that this church had additions to its membership at every monthly communion service, which has continued to the present, covering a period of nine years. Then came Rev. C. M. Melden, Ph. D., whose pastorate was marked by general prosperity, and in pulpit ability no church in the city, perhaps, equalled that of Central Church. In September, 1897, in his fourth year, Dr. Melden was elected president of Clark Univer- sity, and resigned his pastorate to accept this new position, much to the regret of the church and the city. Rev. A. Horace Keeler of the Puget Sound Conference was called 28 SOUVENIR HISTORY. to fill out the year of Dr. Melden. His faithful pulpit and pastoral work has given great satisfaction to the church. The history of the Sunday school runs parallel with that of the church, starting with a membership of 45 and increasing to 978. It has been actively interested in missions and for two years has paid for the tuition of a young French Canadian who was fitting himself for the ministry. Mr. E. T. Sampson is an ideal Superintendent. REV. A. HORACE KEELER. Pastor, October, '97, to April '9 GRANT D. ANTHONY. Ex-Epworth League Pres. The Y. M. C. A. of this city, with its present membership of over 600, was born in 1888 in one of the revivals of this church. Other societies of which the Central Church is mother are the Woman's For- eign Missionary Society, organized in 1871. It has adopted an orphan in Mexico, giving to it the name of Mary C. James, in honor of the pastor's wife. The Methodist Social Union, formed Sept. 9, 1889; a Baptist Church at Brookville, which was the result of this church's work; the South Street Methodist Episcopal Church, organized May 10, 1879; the Franklin Methodist Episcopal Church, in 1888, and the Swedish Methodist Episcopal Church of Campello, organized a year later. Eleven young men have gone from her fold to preach the gospel and others are now preparing themselves for the work. During Mr. Parkin's pastorate efforts were begun to raise funds for the new church. A lot was purchased. A partial fund is already in the bank. A new church is to be erected within the next few years that will be one of the finest in New England Methodism. Rev. M. S. Kauffman, Ph. D., who is closing a successful five years' pastorate at Matthewson Street Church, Providence, has just received a unani- mous invitation to become pastor of this church next year. SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1844. I8 45 . 1846. 1847-48. 1849. I8 5 0. 1851. I852-53- 1854. 1855-56. 1857. 1858-59. 1860. 1861-62. Smith 1863-64. T. Ely ilds 1865-67. F. A.' Crafts Atwater 1868-69. J. Howson Atwater 1870-71. J. FI. James lith 1872-74. T. M. House leman 1875- W. T. Harlow Husted 1876-78. D. A. Jordan ssey 1879-80. G. A. Morse Wheeler 1881-82. J. E. Hawkins iton 1883-85. A. P. Palmer Keown 1886-87. C. B. Pitblado Gonigal 1888. B. W. Hutchinson per 1889-93. Frank P. Parkin mis 1894-97. Charles M. Melden Alderman 1897. A. Horace Keeler CENTRAL CHURCH PARSONAGE. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees N. S. Holmes, C. A. Eaton, Sanford Winter, E. T. Sampson, A. H. Mackie, F. S. Luce, A. F. Small. Stezvards W. J. Loheed, Apollos Eaton, H. W. Nickerson, H. T. Lovell, J. H. K. Dickerson, Stephen Snow, Lendall Snow, C. B. Rounds, W. A. Parmenter, F. B. Lowe, E. E. Goodwin, F. L. Boyden, S. D. Washburne. Class Leaders H. M. Hall, Charles Douglass, W. H. Gray, B. F. Chubbuck, H. E. Wright. Sunday School E. T. Sampson, Superintendent; Mrs. M. C. Wentworth, Superintendent of Intermediate and Primary Department; G. M. Hart, Secretary; H. W. Nickerson, Treasurer; W. E. Ferguson, Chorister; Miss Grace James, Organist; F. O. Ryder, Sexton. Epworth League President, Dr. E. S. Tracy; Secretary, Mary Tuck, W. Winthrop St.; Treasurer, Herbert T. Lovell; Librarian, Edward H. Jenney; First Vice-President, B. F. Chubbuck; Second Vice-President, Jessie Snow; Third Vice-President, Miss Gertrude L. Eaton; Fourth Vice-President, Harry R. Hinman. FRANKLIN M. E. CHURCH, BROCKTON, MASS. On Sunday, October 24, 1887, William E. Beals gathered a few boys into his own home, 534 North Montello street, and organized them into a class for Bible study. The number steadily increased, and was finally organized as a branch of Central School, with William E. Beals as Superintendent. With the opening of spring the number had grown to fifty scholars, with six teachers. It now became necessary to provide a larger place to accommodate this growing school. Ac- cordingly a committee was appointed to secure a site, and places were considered for the erection of a chapel. Philip Reynolds made the purchase of two lots on Snow avenue, near Main street, for $1,000, and FRANKLIN CHURCH AND PARSONAGE. a chapel was soon erected at a total cost of $2,600, including lots, fur- niture, etc., and named Franklin Chapel, in memory of Franklin, a son of Philip Reynolds, who had died soon after the mission was started. The chapel was dedicated in September, 1888, by D. A. Jordan, D. D., Presiding Elder, assisted by Rev. B. W. Hutchinson, pastor of Central Church. In 1889 the Second Quarterly Conference of Central Church elected a board of trustees consisting of Barna Snow, Philip Reynolds, Frank B. Lowe, E. M. Bradley and William E. Beals. The pulpit was supplied by students of Boston University till May, 1889, when it became an independent church and Rev. Frank Borton SOU I' EN IR HISTORY. of the university was duly appointed pastor. In February, 1890, Mr. Borton returned to California to get himself a bride, and was therefore excused, and Rev. John D. Keefe supplied till conference, when Rev. REV. J. WALTER MORRIS. MRS. J. WALTER MORRIS. H. A. Ridgway was appointed pastor. He was able to devote all his time to the work, and good results followed. In September of the *** B. S. KINGMAN. Sunday School Superintendent. CHAS. H. HOPKINS. Epworth League President. same year Reynolds Chapter No. 4191 of the Fpworth League was organized. Rev. F. H. Spear was appointed by the conference of 1892. Un- der his pastorate the church grew in spirituality and numbers. In 1894 Rev. E. H. Depuy came by transfer from the Wyoming Con- 3 2 SOUVENIR HISTORY. ference. In September of that year further steps were taken toward the erection of a new and larger edifice. The building committee con- sisted of Philip Reynolds, B. S. Kingman and Edwin A. Sawtelle. The latter resigned and left the work on the other two. Within about one year the work was completed at a cost of about $10,000, and the beauti- ful edifice was dedicated by Rev. S. F. Upham, D. D., October 6, 1895. It is a fact worthy of mention that during the past ten years the Methodist churches of Brockton have increased more rapidly than those in any other section of the conference. Rev. E. H. Depuy was re-appointed for the third year in 1896, but his health failing, he was compelled to seek a milder climate, and was accordingly transferred to South California Conference in Sep- tember, and Rev. J. Walter Morris, a member of that conference and late principal of Inyo Academy, was transferred to New England Southern Conference and stationed at Franklin Church. A revival spirit has characterized the church from the start. A gracious revival has just visited the church. PASTORS. 1889. Frank Borton 1892-93. F. H. Spear John D. Keefe 1894-96. E. H. Dupuy 1890-91. H. A. Ridgway 1896-97. J. W. Morris PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Barna Snow, B. S. Kingman, Philip Reynolds, W. E. Beals, Dr. E. W. Clark. Stewards Philip Reynolds (D. S.), W. E. Beals, B. S. Kingman, J. F. Billings, Joel Gray, E. A. Shedd, Dr. E. W. Clark, C. F. Hart- ford ( R. S.). Class Leader Lyman Hoxey. Sunday School Superintendent, B. S. Kingman; Assistant Super- intendent, Edwin J. Watts; Secretary, Freeman Hall; Librarian, Will- iam E. Beals. Epworth League Reynolds Chapter: Charles Hopkins, President; B. S. Kingman, First Vice-President; Emma Reynolds, Second Vice- President; Freeman Hall, Third Vice-President; Maud Dunn, Fourth Vice-President; Alice Snow, Secretary; Emma Norris, Treasurer. PEARL ST. METHODIST CHURCH, BROCKTON, MASS. What a record! Daughter, mother, grandmother! Daughter of the first Methodist Episcopal church erected in Easton; mother of the present church at Cochesett, and of the flourishing "Central," and grandmother to both the "Franklin" and "South Street," Brockton. REV. N. C. ALGER. MRS. N. C. ALGER. The history of Pearl Street cannot be written without allusion to the parent meeting-house at Easton, which was dedicated by Bishop Asbury, October 13, 1795. Without entries, with no rented pews, no plastered walls, no chimneys, no stoves. The rude oak slab seats, backless, bark side down, were supported on rough wooden legs. Its famous preachers received for salaries "veal, beef and pig," and some- times were paid in "wood, boards, shingles, hay and shoes." This structure stood until 1830, when it was sold, moved away and altered into a tenement house. Another structure was dedicated that year, the sermon being preached by George Pickering and the prayer offered by Father Bates. Under Father Bates' faithful minis- try, a class was formed at Brockton Heights, which was the seedling destined to produce the present society. He preached in the house of Mother (Anna) Carr, who had often walked through the woods to the old meeting-house, as early as 1829. Her house being too small, service was held in the hall over the old green store. It was here the following agreement found expression: "NORTH BRIDGEWATER, March 9, 1830. "Whereas, we, the subscribers, being disposed to encourage and promote the public worship of God in a manner agreeable to the die- 34 SOUVENIR HISTORY. tates of our own consciences, do hereby agree to form ourselves into a religious society by the name of the First Methodist Episcopal So- ciety in North Bridgewater, for the purpose of promoting, carrying on, and supporting the public worship of God. In order to carry our SETH HALL. Sunday School Superintendent. MISS CORA SCOTT. Epworth League President. wishes into legal effect, we do further agree to take the necessary measures, as soon as may be pointed North Rehoboth, and in 1896 the pastor took up his residence in Chartley, and in 1897 the name of the charge ap- peared in the year book as Chartley and North Rehoboth. The charge has always been! a small one and the change of pas- tors frequent. The present membership numbers 18. There is a pros- SOUVENIR HISTORY. perous Sabbath School, with a membership of about 70, of which Mrs. R. T- Sturdy has been the efficient Superintendent for a number of years. The Ep worth League has been successful during 1896-97, under the presidency of Mr. Arthur T. Sturdy. During the year now closing a neat and comfortable parsonage has been built. PASTORS. 1876-77. R. T. Stevenson 1878-79. F. M. Kirgan 1879. ' W. D. Gray 1880. W. N. Groome 1881. M. F. Colburn G. H. Trevor 1882. Frank S. Townsend 1883. J. F. Sheffield 1884. W. H. Stetson H. B. Swartz 1885. A. G. Smith 1886-88. H. D. Adams 1889. W. W. Hall 1890. Clark Perry 1891-92. S. F. Johnson 1893. E. B. Gurney 1894. John Thompson 1895. N. B. Cook REV. JAMES BIRAM. 1896-97. James Biram PRESENT OFFICIARY. l^rustccs John Harvey, J.- Herbert Harvey, Walter E. Harvey, Oliver H. Lane, Nathan Langill. Stewards Walter E. Harvey, Oliver H. Lane, Mrs. Polly E. Lane, Mrs. Carrie A. Kilburn, J. Herbert Harvey, Mrs. Rachel J. Sturdy, Mrs. Annie L. Harvey, Mrs. Ida E. Harvey, Mrs. Minnie Grossman, Nathan Langill. Sunday School Superintendent, Mrs. Rachel J. Sturdy. Epworth League President, Arthur T. Sturdy. M. E. CHURCH, NORTH REHOBOTH, MASS. About the year 1798 the Rev. John Brodhead was appointed to the Warren, R. I., circuit, which then included the northern part of Bristol County, Massachusetts. That year a class was formed in the northwest part of Rebohoth, Mass., and added to that circuit. At the northeast part of the town of Rehoboth, in the year 1826, the Rev. Lorenzo Dow Johnson, a Reformed Methodist, held services in an unfinished and disused Baptist church, a revival followed and the people joined the church represented by Mr. Johnson. The house of worship was completed and occupied as a Reformed Methodist church. In 1843 tne present house of worship was erected. For several years the Rev. Charles Hammond, who afterward became a mem- ill I THE NO. REHOBOTH PARSONAGE. her of the New England Southern Conference, was pastor. After Mr. Hammond left, as the Reformed Methodists were mostly merged into the Wesleyan Methodist Church, it was found impossible to obtain a regular supply of preachers for the pulpit. At the Providence Annual Conference, held in Provincetown, in 1849, application was made to have the church supplied with minis- ters from that body. The Rev. William Cone was the first preacher ap- pointed here by a bishop of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The class mentioned above, which in 1810 had forty-four members, but had become greatly reduced in numbers by the breaking up of the cir- cuit system, joined a few of the Reformed Methodists in the organiz- ing of a Methodist Episcopal Church. The church building passed into their hands and at the end of the year a membership of forty-four persons was reported. Since that time there has been more or less of prosperity. SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. In 1886 a parsonage was purchased with a legacy left the church by a friend of the society. In 1897 quite an extensive revival occurred and over forty came to the altar for prayers. An Epworth League was organized June 25, 1897, and is doing good work. PASTORS. 1849. William Cone 1876-77. 1850. J. E. Gifford 1878. 1852-53. William H. Richards 1879. 1854-55. Arnold Adams 1880-82. 1856-57. Henry H. Smith 1883. 1858-59. Samuel Fox 1884. 1860. Edward A. Lyon 1885. 1861-62. Abel Gardner 1863. S. W. Coggeshall 1886-88. 1864-65. Charles Alorse 1889. 1866-67. B. K. Bosworth 1889-90. 1868. Caleb S. Sanford 1891-92. 1869-70. John O. Adams l &93- 1871-72. Richard Povey 1894. 1873. Elijah F. Smith 1895. 1874-75. De Witt C. House 1896-97. S. V. B. Cross S. P. Snow Charles Stokes J. A. Rood J. F. Sheffield George W. King Charles Hammond John Cornell H. D. Adams W. W. Hall Clark Perry S. F. Johnson E. B. Gurney John Thompson N. B. Cook James Biram PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Randall B. Bullock, Osborne Perry, Frank Stevens, Eugene B. Rounds, James S. Morehouse, George A. Dean. Stewards Osborne Perry, Eugene B. Rounds, Randall B. Bul- lock, James S. Morehouse, Mrs. Ann E. Fields, Mrs. Harriet Perry, Miss Martha J. Morehouse, Miss Elizabeth Lincoln, Miss Martha Dean, Mrs. Elizabeth Bullock, Miss H. Emma Rounds, Miss Katie A. Smith. Sunday School Superintendent, Joseph Rounds. Epworth League President, Miss Kate A. Smith. M. E. CHURCH, COCHESETT, MASS. The rise and progress of the M. E. Church in West Bridgewater dates back to the early part of the nineteenth century. In 1829 Rev. Lewis Bates and Rev. Sanford Benton held a series THE COCHESETT CHURCH. of meetings, at which time several persons experienced religion. For the next three years preaching was maintained by Rev. George Pick- ering, Rev. Phineas Crandall, Rev. Dexter King and others, when the first class was formed. In the year 1840 Mr. Caleb Howard, at his own expense, erected the first Methodist Episcopal meeting house- REV. W. B. HEATH. MRS. \V. B. HEATH. This house was dedicated by Rev. Frederic Upham, preaching the ser- mon from Luke ii, 5. A In March. 1841, Rev. L. Bates appointed a protracted meeting. A 54 SOU I 'ENIR HISTORY. great revival was the result, and nearly 150 persons experienced justi- fication by faith in Christ. 96 of whom were baptized. This so strength- ened the society as to enable them to support preaching on the Sab- bath, which has been continued from that time to the present. In the spring of 1841 Rev. J. J. P. Colyer commenced preaching here: he was greatly beloved, remaining two years. He was followed THE COCHESETT PARSONAGE. MRS. JULIA A. TOWNSEND. by Rev. Samuel W. Coggeshall. Rev. Paul Townsend was the next pastor. This year the small chapel w^as insufficient to accommodate the increasing congregation. On December 18, 1844, a new house of worship was dedicated. The cost of this church was $2,468, of which Mr. Caleb Howard paid $1,975. To Mr. Howard and his noble wife, who shared equally with him in labor and sacrifice, the church is largely indebted for its estab- lishment and growth. The prayers and saintly life of Mrs. Nancy Howard still linger in the memories of the people and rest as a bene- diction upon their hearts. In 1878 the parsonage and contents were burned; thus much that was valuable concerning the history of the later years of the church was destroyed. PASTORS. 1829-40. Lewis Bates 1844-45. 1841-42. 1843- Lewis Bates Sanford Benton George Pickering Phineas Crandall Dexter King and others J. J. P. Colyer S. W. Coggeshall 1846-47. 1848-49. 1850. ' 1851-52- 1853-54. 1855-56. 1857-59- Paul Townsend A. U. Swinerton Daniel Webb Thomas Hardman Franklin Gavitt James M. Worcester E. B. Hinckley Sanford Benton SOUVENIR HISTORY. 55 1860. H. D. Robinson 1876. J. W. Sutherland 1861 Charles Hammond 1877. A. McCord 1862-63. J. C. Allen 1878. George E. Fuller 1864-65. Franklin Sears 1879-80. D. M. Rogers 1866-67. Walter Ela 1881-82. T. B. Gurney 1868. James Mather 1883-85. J. A. Rood 1869. Philip Crandon 1886-87. G. E. Dunbar 1870-71. Paul Townsend 1888-90. R. J. Kellogg 1872. Edwin G. Babcock 1891-93. Robert Clark 1873-74. Benjamin L. Sayer 1894-95. E. S. Hammond 1875. E. A. Boyden ' .1896. William B. Heath PRESENT OFFICIARY. George F. Evans, William A. Cole, George F. Shaw, Isaac Win- ship, Everett Clark, Charles H. Fuller, Eleazer A. Cole, Mrs. Rossa R. Shaw, Mrs. Julia A. Townsend, Mrs. Elizabeth H. Adams, Miss Cora H. Alger, Miss Irene S. Wood, Miss Sarah J. Alger. Sunday School Superintendent, Mrs. Rossa R. Shaw; Assistant, Miss Cora H. Alger; Secretary, William Cole; Treasurer, Miss Julia Townsend; Teachers, Rev. William B. Heath, Mrs. W. B. Heath, Miss Julia A. Townsend, Mrs. Charles H. Fuller, Mrs. George T. Shaw, Miss Sarah J. Alger, Miss Irene S. Wood, Miss Cora H. Alger. Epworth League President, Mrs. William B. Heath; First Vice- President, Mrs. R. R. Shaw; Second Vice-President, Miss Julia Town- send; Third Vice-President, Miss Cora Alger; Fourth Vice-President, Sarah J. Alger; Fifth Vice-President, Irene S. Wood; Sixth Vice- President, Mrs. Clara Silvie. M. E. CHURCH, DROWNVILLE, R. I. Some time in 1869 a few members of the Warren and the Power Street (Providence) M. E. churches residing in Barrington, desiring to enjoy the ordinances and privileges of the house of God in connection with the church of their choice and in the vicinity of their homes, opened a hall for a mission Sunday school and for preaching. These services were continued until June, 1871. On June 18 of that year the Presiding Elder, Rev. M. J. Talbot, organized the church in Noyatt Hall, with the following members and probationers: Richard Dow, preacher; George Noble, Secretary; George Noble and Jonathan Allen, Stewards; Messrs. Noble and Allen, with Edward Clark, Trus- tees; members, Jonathan Allen, Eliza Allen, George Noble and Mary Noble; probationers, Henrietta Allen, Ida E. Salisbury, Henry J. Veith, Harriet M. Vieth, Edward L. Clark, William Jones and Eliza- beth Jones. 5 6 SOUl'EXIR HISTORY. In April, 1872, Rev. Carlos Banning was appointed to the charge. During this conference year the meetings were held in the old Drown House at Drown ville. In 1873 Mr. Stanley was in charge of the church. In June, 1874, Rev. Mr. Taylor of Mystic Bridge, Conn., was the pastor, and remained until October, when Rev. George W. Brewster sent John E. Risley. A building committee was organized and the pastor appointed to collect funds to build a chapel. The chapel was completed and dedicated in November, 1875. Mr. Risley was ap- pointed in 1875 and '76. At the watch night meeting, held December 31, 1875, a revival began, resulting in the conversion of 15 souls. From the spring of 1876 to 1885 the pulpit was supplied by local preachers from Providence, East Greenwich and elsewhere. Mr. A. F. Smith, an exhorter, was for a time in charge. During i885-'88 Rev. J. Mather was in charge and under him the church prospered temporally and spiritually. H. D. Adams was the pastor during the next conference year. F. L. Brooks was then pastor for two years. During his administration the large comfortable parsonage was built and the church altered. He was pastor at Riverside also and built the church there. In 1893-95 R CV - E. E. Phillips was pastor. Under his care the membership of the church increased from 27 to 43. Twenty-one per- sons professed conversion. The church debt was also reduced $600 while Mr. Phillips was in charge. In 1895-97 Rev. E. G. Babcock was pastor in charge. The Junior Endeavor League, established under Mr. Phillips, was disbanded and a senior league was instituted. M. R. Foster is the present pastor. M. E. CHURCH, EAST BRA1NTREE, MASS. At the last business meeting of the Epworth League of the Meth- odist Episcopal Church of East Braintree, held January 7, 1898, it was voted that the league be known as the "Miller Chapter" oi the Epworth THE EAST BRAINTREE CHURCH. League. It may be interesting to some to know the reason of this choice: it was through the efforts of Mr. William Miller, who passed away some years ago, but is still well remembered by the people of REV. W. J. KELLY. MRS. W. J. KELLY. East Braintree, that the first prayer meeting was held, from which has grown the church oi which this league is now a part. Braintree Reporter. The prayer meeting referred to above was held July 19, 1880, at SOUVENIR HISTORY. the residence of Mr. O. B. Sears, and was conducted by Mr. H. M. Storm, the present class leader. At this meeting it was agreed to secure a hall in which to hold meetings and two weeks later a Sunday school was organized and Sunday afternoon preaching services estab- JOSEPHUS SAMPSON. MABEL F. JOHNSON. lished. From 1880 to 1890 the work was carried on as a part of the South Braintree charge, when the hall in which the services were held had to be given up, it being converted by its owner into a dwelling. As there was no other suitable place for meetings available it became a question whether the work should be abandoned or a separate society organized and a house of worship erected. The latter course was decid- ed upon, and at a meeting held at the residence of Mr. J. E. Johnson, Octo- ber 20, 1890, twenty-seven persons, members of the South Braintree Church, presented their letters to the Rev. S. O. Benton, Presiding Elder of the Providence District, and were organized as the Methodist Episcopal Church of East Braintree. Steps were immediately taken towards the WILLIAM MILLER. erection of a church, and on May 10, 1891, the young society, which had been without a pastor or a place in which to hold any kind of a service for about a year, had its new church, built at a cost of $3.500, dedicated practically free of debt, the SOUVENIR HISTORY. 59 Rev. Dr. Parkhurst, editor of "Zion's Herald," preaching the sermon. The church has been supplied by the following pastors, nearly all of whom have been students at Boston University, or some other institution, during their pastorate: PASTORS. 1891. A. S. Staples l ^93~95- Ambrie Field G. B. Rogers 1896-97. William J. Kelly 1892. M. W. Reece PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees H. M. Storm, J. Sampson, William Nickson, A. A. Pratt, J. F. Allen. Stewards H. M. Storm, J. Sampson, William Nickson, W. H. Godfrey, A. A. Pratt, Mrs. L. F. Johnson, Mrs. E. H. Abbott, Miss S. C. Bennett, Miss L. M. Clark, Mrs. L. C. Allen, Mrs. A. E. Pratt, Mrs. S. Nickson. Sunday School Superintendent, J. Sampson; Assistant Superin- tendent, H. M. Storm; Secretary, Eva C. Platt; Treasurer, Lulie M. Stcrm, Lulie M. Clark, Mrs. W. J. Kelly, W. J. Kelly, Mabel A. Johnson. Epworth League President, Mabel A. Johnson; Vice-Presidents, H. R. Smith, Sarah C. Bennett, O. P. K. Harsman, Cassie L. Souther; Secretary, Nellie Storm; Treasurer, William H. Godfrey; Junior Su- perintendent, Lulie M. Clark. M. E. CHURCH, EAST GREENWICH, R. I. This is one of the oldest Methodist organizations in New England. The place first appears in the appointments of 1792, though Jesse Lee is supposed to have preached here in 1789. The first pastor was Lemuel Smith; presiding elder, Jesse Lee. Seven ladies composed the first class, though at the close of the year sixteen members were re- ported. Only three of the names of the original seven can be ascer- tained. They are Mrs. Ruth Mumford, Mrs. Joseph Green and Mrs. James Sweet. In 1797 East Greenwich appears connected with Warren, and also again in 1799. The following year Bishop Asbury and Richard Whatcoat. visited the circuit, which reported twenty preaching places. The first quarterly conference of which any record exists was held in Wickford in 1811. In 1822 Lewis Bates and Tohn E. Rislev were the circuit 6o SOUVENIR HISTORY. preachers. There was an extensive revival with some forty conver- sions this year in East Greenwich. In 1833 the church edifice was built, which, though remodeled, still stands. The following is the list of original trustees: Oliver Wickes, Daniel Green, Ezra Pollard, Rob- ert B. Hall, Thomas G. Allen, F. G. Hill and David W. Hunt. Dr. Wilbur Fiske preached the dedicatory sermon from Psalms xciii, 5. Robert Gould and Hiram Cummings were the preachers in charge. The next year a sweeping revival is reported under the pastorate of James Porter. In 1846 the parsonage was built, which is still used. Rev. L. W. Blood was preacher in charge. During the years 1850 and 1851, under the labors of Richard Livesey, one hundred and twenty were converted, and during the THE EAST GREENWICH CHURCH. following two years' pastorate of William Cone more than one hun- dred were converted. In the record for 1868, S. A. Winsor, pastor, we read: "Several professed conversion, among them a number of contrabands." During the pastorate of S. O. Benton in 1876, a large addition was built in the rear of the church to accommodate the organ and choir. W. J. Yates was preacher in charge for three years, beginning 1880. He was very active and efficient in the temperance cause, and in prosecuting the rumsellers of the place, who became greatly embit- tered toward him. One evening two stones were thrown at him through one of the parsonage windows, but he escaped injury. In 1883, W. H. Starr, pastor, the church was improved at a cost of $2.500, and seven years later, during the fourth year of J. B. Smith's pastorate, it was remodeled at a cost of $6.500. SOUYENIR HISTORY. 61 During the five years' pastorate of J. E. Hawkins, ending in 1896, the church debt was reduced from $5,450 to $4,000. The centennial of East Greenwich Methodism was celebrated November 27, 1892. The present membership numbers 130 full members, with six probationers. The presence of the Conference Academy here, whose teachers and students largely attend the Sunday morning service, makes this a very important charge. PASTORS. 1792. Lemuel Smith 1703. David Kendall Enoch Mudge 1820. 1704. Joshua Lovel! 1821. 17^5. John Hill 1822. David Bromley 1796. Stephen Hull 1823. 1707. Nathaniel Chapin Wesley Budd 1824. 1798. Stephen Hull 1799. Ezekiel Canfield 1825. Joshua Hall Truman Bishop 1826. 1800. Joshua Snelling Solomon Langdon 1827. 1801. John Finnegan 1828. David Fiddler 1802. Reuben Hubbard Caleb Morris 1829. A. H. Cobb 1803. Alexander McLane 1830. Noble VV. Thoiii-n 1831. 1804. Alex. McLane 1832. D. Burge Clement Parker l &33- 1805. Epaphras Kibby 1806. Pliny Brett 1834-35. Joseph Smith 1836-37 1807. Pliny Brett 1838. 1808-9. Theophilus Smith 1839. 1810. A. Stebbins 1840 1811. Elisha Streeter 1841. 1812. Warren Bannister 1813. Daniel Wentworth 1842. 1814. Joel Steele 1815. Edward Hyde 1843-45 1816. Elisha Streeter 1846. 1817. Daniel Dorchester 1847-48. 1818. Jason Walker 1849. 1819. Isaac Stoddard 1850-51 Solomon Sias Benjamin Sabin Hezekiah Thatcher Francis Dane Lewis Bates John E. Risley Elisha Frink Caleb D. Rogers Elisha Frink E. K. A very B. Hazelton M. Wilbur B. Hazelton O. Robbins Francis Dane F. Dane A. Otis J. W. Case Amasa Taylor John D. Baldwin Amasa Taylor Charles Virgin Robert Gould Jonathan Cady Robert Gould Hiram Cummings James Porter Nathan Paine B. K. Bannister Francis Dane Joseph Macreading B. F. Tefft John W. Case George F. Poole S. C. Brown S. C. Brown L. W. Blood H. W. Houghton J. M. Worcester Richard Livesey 62 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1852-53. William Cone 1868. 1854-55. Nathaniel Bemis 1869-71. 1856. * William H. Stetson 1872. 1857. William Livesey J 873- 1858-59. Richard Donkersley 1874. 1860. ' S. W. Coggeshall 1875-77. James A. Dean 1878. 1861. James A. Dean 1879. 1862. C. S. Sanford 1880-82. 1863-64. A. P. Aikin 1883-85. 1865. E. S. Stanley 1886-87. 1866. A. A. Wright 1888-91. J. T. Benton 1891-95. 1867. J. T. Benton 1896-97. S. A. Winsor J. F. Sheffield James Mather Azariah B. Wheeler George W. Wright S. Olin Benton G. DeB. Stoddard W. F. Steele W. J. Yates William H. Starr S. Hamilton Day J. B. Smith J. E. Hawkins Ambrie Field PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees F. D. Blakeslee, E. G. Carpenter, S. F. Crompton, Daniel Burdick, T. C. Strickland, J. H. Carpenter, W. J. Starr, T. B. Boardman, T. W. Fawly. Stewards E.. G. Carpenter, M. M. Reynolds, A. W. Place, T. C. Strickland, F. E. Crowell, T. W. Cole, T. W. Fawly, J. H. Carpenter, W. J. Starr, Richard Hoag, John Cornell, W. G. Wheelock, Jr. Local Preacher H. P. Snow. Effective Elder F. D. Blakeslee. Supernumerary D. A. Whedon. Superannuate F. A. Loomis. Sunday School Superintendent, William G. Wheelock, Jr.; First Assistant Superintendent, J. H. Carpenter; Second Assistant Superin- tendent, W. J. Starr; Secretary, Mrs. A. W. Place; Assistant Secre- tary, Reuben Hart; Treasurer, Mrs. G. H. Fuller; Librarian, Waldo Carpenter; Organist, Miss Bessie Fuller; Assistant Organist, Miss Lola Austin. Teachers J. H. Carpenter, Ambrie Field, Mrs. A. Field, W. J. Starr, Mrs. W. J. Starr, Miss R. M. Fuller, Miss Mary Boardman, Miss S. A. Boardman, Miss Susan Wightman, Miss Bessie Fuller, Mrs. Ruth Burlingame, Miss Ida Hawkins. Epworth League Vincent Chapter, No. 2774: President, Miss Rose M. Fuller; First Vice-President, Miss S. Alice Boardman; Sec- ond Vice-President, Mrs. G. H. Fuller; Third Vice-President, Mrs. A. Field; Fourth Vice-President, Miss Ida Hawkins; Secretary, William G. Wheelock, Jr. : Treasurer, Richard Hoag. M. E. CHURCH, EAST WEYMOUTH, MASS. The material for this sketch has been derived chiefly from a his- tory of the church written by Rev. Walter Ela, in the year 1873, when he was its pastor, and from documents and other data in possession of Mr. John W. Bates, one of the office bearers in the church at the present time. Weymouth is one of the oldest towns in Massachusetts, Plymouth only having been settled a few years earlier. The Church of the Pilgrims and the Puritans, Cal- vinistic in doctrine and Congre- gational in government, became firmly established here, and was for many years the only ecclesi- astical body in the town. East Weymouth was a part of the "North Parish," whose house of worship was located at Wey- mouth Heights. There was no church or place of regular wor- ship in the eastern part of the town until the Methodists ap- peared. Previous to 1822 Methodist ministers occasionally visited the town and it is known that Jotham Horton, Edward T. Taylor and Frederick Upham had preached here, yet apparently with no permanent result. In the autumn of 1822 Urban Rice, while visiting in Springfield, was converted among the Methodists. Returning to East Weymouth shortly after, he began at once to do the work of an evangelist among the people, thus be- coming one of the founders of the Methodist church in this place. About the same time Joseph Dunbar, a young Methodist convert from Hingham, announced to the congregation in the THE EAST WEYMOUTH PARSONAGE. 64 SOL'l'EXIR HISTORY. "Old North Church" at the close of a Sunday afternoon service: "God willing, there will be a religious meeting in the Back River school- house this evening." The "Back River schoolhouse" was in East Weymouth; the "religious meeting'' was part of the beginning of a permanent Methodist movement; and Joseph Dunbar was soon to become the first Methodist class leader in the place. Aaron D. Sargent, who was preacher-in-charge of the Scituate circuit, soon established regular preaching services at East Weymouth, which were held at the home of David Rice, the father of Urban Rice, in a gambrel-roofed house which still stands on Pleasant street, not far from the site of the first house of worship. A class of eleven mem- OLD RICE HOUSE. CYRUS WASHBURN. bers was organized, probably in May, 1823, with Joseph Dunbar as leader. This was the first Methodist organization in the town. Until 1825 this class continued to be a part of the Scituate circuit. Stephen Puffer and Benjamin Jones were the preachers in 1823, and John Adams, Moses Sanderson and LeRoy Sunderland in 1824. Early in the year 1825 a building lot was secured and a church edifice was nearly finished when the Conference met in June. At that time this place became a separate station, with Samuel Norris as preacher. The new house of worship was dedicated June 22, 1825, the sermon of the occasion being preached by Rev. Isaac Bonney. So prosperous was the church that it became necessary to enlarge the chapel considerably in 1828. Then followed a period of fourteen years marked by steady success and uninterrupted growth. The names of LeRoy Sunderland, Lewis Bates and Epaphras Kibby, which appear in the list of the preachers of that time, and also those of Orange Scott, John Newland Maffitt and Thomas C. Pierce, who occasionally SOUVENIR HISTORY. preached here, remind us that "there were giants in those days." Ed- ward A. Lyon, whose name and labors are held in precious memory because of the fruitful revival interest which attended his work here, is the sole survivor of the pastors of that period. REV. W. I. WARD. MRS. W. I. WARD. The year 1842 proved to be crucial in the history of the church. The Methodist form of government was new to the people. Even after nearly twenty years of prosperity under it, many, while loyal to JOSEPH A. GUSHING. Recording Steward. ZACHARIAH L,. BICKNELL,. District Steward. Methodist doctrines, desired that the church should act independently of Presiding Elders or Bishops in choosing a pastor. After a period of agitation, a majority of the members organized themselves into a 66 SOUi'ENIR HISTORY. new church, having a Congregational form of government, and ob- tained peaceful and legal possession of the church property. In 1843 they demolished the old house of worship and erected a new one on the same spot; and it stands there at the present time. For several years the new society had its pulpit supplied by Methodist Protestant and Wesleyan Methodist preachers, but it finally became a regular Congregational church, and remains such to-day, bearing faithful witness to Christ and His gospel. There remained a goodly number of thorough-going Methodists who maintained the^ original organization. Once more a private house THE OFFICIAL, BOARD. was used as a place of worship, and then the village schoolhouse, until another church building was erected. Of the Board of Trustees which held this property, one member, Cyrus Washburn, survives. He was the builder of this and the other two houses of worship which the society erected subsequently. He is still a trustee of the Methodist church property in East Weymouth, although he no longer resides here. The church was dedicated October 30, 1844, during the pastor- ate of Henry Mayo, the dedication sermon being preached by Rev. George Landon. Six years later, when John B. Gould was pastor, it was considerably enlarged, and when re-dedicated, October 23, 1850, Rev. Abel Stevens, D. D., preached the sermon. In a little more than a year it was destroyed by fire. Another building was erected on the SOUVENIR HISTORY. 6 7 same spot during the first year of the pastorate of C. H. Titus, and was set apart for the worship of God October 12, 1852. On this occa- sion the sermon was delivered by Rev. Daniel Wise, D. D. This, too, was enlarged under the administration of John Howson, in order to meet the needs of the growing society. When formally re-opened, October 27, 1864, Rev. J. A. M. Chapman, D. D., was the preacher of the occasion. Once more the society was tried by fire, for this building was burned early in 1870. A new location on Broad street was now decided upon, and the present house of worship was ready for occupancy before Christmas of that year. The funds with which to pay for this building were raised by W. V. Morrison during the last INTERIOR VIEW, SHOWING THE PIPE ORGAN. weeks of his pastorate. His successor, F. J. Wagner, proved a vigor- ous leader in the work of erecting the new edifice. It was dedicated December 23, 1870, when Rev. W. F. Warren, D. D., now President of Boston University, preached the sermon. This bare outline history of the buildings successively occupied by the Methodists of East Wey- mouth speaks volumes as to the growth, the vigor and the courage of the Church, and the faithfulness of the pastors. Revival seasons of great power have marked the history of this church. Allusion has already been made to one of these. The pas- torate of H. H. Smith is memorable for an extensive revival, in which many who are now pillars in the church were brought into its fellow- ship. H. D. Robinson saw a gracious revival in his time. But most notable of all was the sweeping revival which occurred while W. V. 68 SOUI'ENIK HISTORY. Morrison was pastor, adding several scores of active members to the church, a general revival, in which the Congregational Church was en- gaged quite as much as the Methodist. Of all the men who have been stationed in East Weymouth, and whose work has passed into history, there is not one of whom it may not be truthfully said, "His pastorate was prosperous and his labors fruitful of good." Among them all, no one endeared himself more thoroughly to the people than George C. King, who, in a little more than a year, acquired so strong a hold upon them that when he suddenly died in the parsonage on a summer morn- WAL.DO TURNER. Sunday School Superintendent. ing in 1888, every one in the church and the community felt that he had lost a friend. The commodious and comfortable parsonage was built during Dr. Morrison's pastorate. The notable laymen who have been members of this church would form an imposing company. To mention them all in a brief sketch would be impossible. To name some and omit others would seem in- vidious. Yet it ought to be recorded that Leavitt Bates, who was a lay delegate from the New England Southern Conference to the Gen- eral Conference of 1888, was one of the active men of the East Wey- mouth Church; and that in the "war board" of selectmen, whose local SOUVENIR HISTORY. 69 fame was eminent, East Weymoutlr s representative was Zachariah L. Bicknell, a stalwart member of the Methodist church. He was Super- intendent of the Sunday School for twenty-four years, and still holds the offices of Steward and Trustee. There are two women who are in the seventieth year of continuous relation to this church, Mrs. Susan L. Bates and Mrs. Lucy E. French. The former was admitted to full membership in March, 1828, and the latter in June of the same year. This church has produced one itinerant minister, Rev. Eben Tir- rell, who is a prominent and highly honored member of the New Eng- land Southern Conference. And from this church went out another member of the same family to become the wife of Rev. Nathaniel Bemis, who was once pastor here and afterwards a member of the MRS. SUSAN L. BATES. (Member o Church 70 Tears.) MRS. LUCY E. FRENCH. (Member of Church 70 Tears.) New England Conference. Three local preachers, who were con- nected with this church some sixty years ago, earned universal esteem and honored the church by their efficient labors. They were James Bicknell, George Lincoln and Bela L. Pratt. Early in the history of the church provision was made for the proper rendering of the musical parts of the public worship. The "Wesleyan Singing Society" was organized in 1826, by Mr. Charles Bates, who was its conductor for many years. This society still main- tains an active existence and is the choir of the church. Its history is replete with interest. Its worth to the church cannot be calculated. Its membership has always been large. More than one hundred per- sons are now living who have belonged to it. Its members now num- ber twenty-five, among whom are several accomplished soloists. The SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. oldest surviving member is Ebenezer Tirrell, whose active membership extended from 1830 to 1883, and who discharged the duties of choris- ter for fifteen years. Charles H. Pratt held the office of chorister for twenty-three years, and his son, William H. Pratt, under whose direc- tion a high degree of proficiency is maintained, is in the eleventh year of continuous service in the same position. Beside those already men- tioned, three other men have served efficiently as chorister. They are Stephen W. Dyer. Francis R. Bates and David P. Lincoln. The large WILLIAM H. PRATT. Chorister. MYRON P. FORD. Epworth League President. three-manual organ, noble successor of one which was burned, and of the orchestra which was used in earlier days, is a magnificent in- strument built by Appleton for the Hanover Street Church in Boston, and acquired by this church by purchase at auction in 1870. In its dark gothic case it is a striking architectural feature of the auditorium. Its rich historical association and wealth of musical resources make it exceptionally fit to accompany this remarkable choir. PASTORS. 1822. Aaron D. Sargent 1830. 1823-24. Stephen Puffer 1831. Benjamin Jones 1832. 1824. John Adams 1833-34. Moses Sanderson 1835-36. Le Roy Sunderland 1837. 1825-26. Samuel Norris 1838. 1827. Jared Perkins 1839. 1828. Zenas Adams 1840. 1829. Thomas W. Tucker 1841. Le Roy Sunderland Darius Barker George Stone Lewis Bates E. W. Stickney Benjamin Lombard Epaphras Kibby J. S. Springer Edward A. Lyon Joel Steele SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1842. 1843- 1844-45. 1846-47. 1848-49. 1850-51. I852-53- 1854. 1855-56. 1857-58. 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-64. Bryan Morse 1865-66. A. G. Bowles 1867-69. Henry Mayo 1870-71. Lemuel Harlow 1872-73. Henry H. Smith 1874-76. John B. Gould 1877-79. Charles H. Titus 1880-82. Andrew H. Robinson 1883-84. Daniel Wise 1884. William Ross 1885-86. Horatio W. Houghton 1887-88. Nathaniel Bemis 1888-91. John Cooper 1892-94. Samuel C. Brown 1895-97. John Howson Henry D. Robinson William V. Morrison Francis J. Wagner Walter Ela Samuel L. Gracey Edwin D. Hall Dudley P. Leavitt Samuel J. Carroll William H. Stetson Joshua A. L. Rich George C. King Albert A. Kidder James H. MacDonald William I. Ward PRESENT OFFICIARY. Class Leaders W. H. Pratt, Waldo Turner, Benjamin B. Sylves- ter, George W. Dyer, Leonard W. Cain. Trustees Cyrus Washburn, Zachariah L. Bicknell, Bela French, Richard V. Merchant, Joseph A. Gushing, John W. Bates, Leavitt W. Bates, William H. Pratt, Waldo Turner. Stewards Bela French, Zachariah L. Bicknell, Nathan Good- speed, Joseph A. Gushing, Irving M. Norcross, Francis Pool, Charles W. Rice, Leonard W. Cain, John W. Bates, Bela P. French, George H. Cunningham, Owen S. Chandler, Myron P. Ford. Sunday School Superintendent, Waldo Turner; Assistant Super- intendent, Leavitt W. Bates; Secretary, Robert H. McFawn; Treas- urer, Charles H. Denbroeder; Librarian, John A. McFawn; Assist- ant Librarian, C. Henry Cudworth. Teachers Leonard W. Cain, Mrs. Sarah M. Dyer, Mrs. Alice A. Cunningham, Charles R. Denbroeder, Nathan Goodspeed, Mrs. Eliza J. Bicknell, Mrs. T. B. Nichols, Mrs. Nancie M. Ames, Mrs. Eunice G. Smith, Mrs. Sarah C. Bicknell, Mrs. Ann E. Bates, Mrs. Martha W. Pratt, Mrs. Dora L. Gushing, Mrs. Mary M. Pool, Mrs. Mary E. W. Dunbar, Miss P. Jennie Bearse, Miss Grace Pratt, Miss Hattie Hayes, Myron P. Ford, Miss Nella R. Hayden, Mrs. Hannah Spear, Miss Mary P. Mathewson, Mrs. Mary A. R. Hunt, Mrs. Annie W. Pratt, Mrs. Ruth L. Harrington, Mrs. Marion L. Denbroeder. Primary Department Mrs. Samira- Raymond, Mrs. C. H. Bearse. Epivorth League President, Myron P. Ford; Vice-Presidents First, Miss Nella R. Hayden; Second, Miss Mary P. Mathewson; Third, Mrs. Emma L. Ward; Fourth, Mrs. Alice A. Cunningham; Sec- retary, Mrs. Marion L. Denbroeder; Treasurer, Walter E. Tirrell. PORTER M. E. CHURCH. LOVELL'S CORNER, EAST WEYMOUTH, MASS. Porter Church, not unlike many Methodist churches in New England, began its larval life as an undenominational mission; passed its precarious winter as a Congregational chrysalis ; and, in the spring, emerged mature, a small but characteristic species of the genus Metho- dist. The first stage commenced in the spring of 1864, when six women of the Corner formed a "union female prayer meeting." These per- sistent women kept up their weekly meetings for nearly three years, when Rev. D. W. Waldron, a Congregationalist of Augusta, Me., THE PORTER CHURCH. IRWIN B. HAWES. Sunday School Superintendent. preached his first sermon here in October, 1866, and opened the mis- sion in the hall over the corner store. By October, a year later, societies among the women and young men of the regular congregation were formed, the hall furnished and the mission fairly at work. Thus it continued until Mr. Waldron left in 1871. Now for fifteen months its preachers were sent from the Con- gregational House, Boston; but finding this plan hazarding the inter- ests of the mission, a council of Weymouth churches was called October 29, 1892, and the "Puritan Congregational Church of Lovell's Corner" was organized, with Rev. J. C. Halliday as pastor, at a salary of $1,000. So began the second stage. The only Methodist lay delegate to that council was Mr. Z. L. Bicknell, who recently said to the present pastor: "I wanted a Metho- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 73 dist church at the Corner, but ,1 advocated organizing as a Congre- gational with all my heart, for I knew they would begin that way or not begin at all. I saw they couldn't support another Congregational church so near the other two; I knew that system wouldn't support REV. DALLAS L. SHARP. MRS. GRACE HASTINGS SHARP. a church in so small a place as the Corner, so I went in for Congre- gationalism as the surest way of having it drop into the big lap of Methodism, and it did." Moral ! Now business in the Corner began to die. Mr. Halliday's salary began to fall, till in 1877 he was forced to flee. Things ecclesiastical at the Corner had struck, and were going to pieces. There was just one name whereby they must be saved, and they called a Methodist Presiding Elder. Dr. W. V. Morrison came, and the third and last stage of the church, began. Rev. Henry P. Haylett was sent as a supply until April, 1879, when the M. E. Church of Weymouth was organized, and Mr. Haylett became its first pastor. In 1885 Rev. Julian S. Wadsworth came, and finding plans for a new church ready to move, put his shoulder to the wheel, and, with the gift of a lot by Mr. Thomas Holbrook, a $600 legacy left by Miss Eunice Porter "for the building of the first Methodist Church in South Weymouth," and the liberal help of the Corner people, the Porter M. E. Church was dedicated on September 16, 1886. Since that day the church has slowly but steadily "increased in stature," and we trust "in favor with God and man." 1878-79. Henry P. Haylett 1880. C. H. Farnsworth PASTORS. 1881-83. 1884. E. G. Babcock F. D. Sargent 74 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1885-87. J. S. Wadsworth 1891-92. E. E. Philltps 1888. S. F. Chase 1893-94. W. H. Butler 1889. F. L. Brooks 1895. C. H. Van Natter 1890. G. B. M. Rogers 1896-97. D. L. Sharp Henry Roissy PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Charles Hawes, Joseph F. Taylor, George F. Maynard, Walter W. Pratt, Frank W. Rea, Charles H. Pratt, Bradford Hawes, T. Austin Poole, Frank H. Tisdal. Stezvards Mrs. Caroline Tirrell, Mrs. Jennie C. Lane, Mrs. Abigail Cobb, Mrs. Mary J. Holbrook, Mrs. Augusta M. Poole, Mrs. Jesephine C. Rea, Mrs. Mary E. Hawes, Mrs. Catherine S. Pratt, Mrs. Carrie M. Hunt, Mrs. Lucinda Pratt, Miss Nellie Holbrook (R. S.), Irwin B. Hawes (D. S.), Charles H. Pratt. Sunday School Superintendent, Irving B. Hawes, Librarian, Frank N. Blanchard; Secretary and Treasurer, Willie Porter Pratt. Teachers Mrs. C. J. Rea, Frank W. Rea, Mrs. Charles Hawes, Bradford Hawes, Miss Jessie E. Stewart, Mrs. Dallas L. Sharp, Mrs. Abigail Cobb, Miss Nellie Holbrook, Miss Emma Rea, Miss Florence Pratt, Mrs. Bradford Hawes. Epworth League President, Frank W. Rea; First Vice-President, Frank N. Blanchard; Second Vice-President, Nettie M. Holbrook; Third Vice-President, Juno F. Hutchins; Fourth Vice-President, Miss Emma Rea; Secretary, Maria E. Hawes; Treasurer, Susan H. Hawes. M. E. CHURCH, FOXBORO, MASS. After long search, a gentleman, Eugene Shaw by name, found employment such as would conduce to his health by permitting him to be much in the open air. It was that of driving a coal cart. One cold, windy day, while delivering coal to the Rev. W. J. Kelly, a Methodist minister residing at South Walpole, he was invited into the house to warm his hands. To the minister's inquiry as to where he lived, and whether he attended church, he replied that he lived at Fox- boro, but had not been in the habit of attending any church. Mr. Kelly then invited him to come to South Walpole and hear the Gospel. He accepted the invitation, and became much interested. His report of the services led certain elect ladies of Foxboro to frequent the meetings, and in time the attention of Rev. Mr. Kelly was directed to this new field waiting for the Methodist sickle. Thus it came about that on the evening of February 20, 1893, a SOUVENIR HISTORY. 75 band of eleven persons interested in Methodism met at the house of George M. Barron, on Garfield street, to consider the expediency of holding regular class meetings in Foxboro. The meeting was opened with prayer by the Rev. W. J. Kelly, and resulted in the decision to SAMARITAN HALL, (Interior.) hold class meetings for a time, and, if the interest should warrant the movement, later to have preaching services. On the following week, the evening of February 27, the first class meeting was held at the REV. W. S. FOSTER. MRS. ADDIE J. FOSTER. house of S. H. Clapp, on Rock Hill street. Sixteen persons were present, and the class was led by Mr. Kelly. March 6, another class meeting was held at the same place, there being nineteen present, and led by Rev. Mr. Kelly. One more class meeting was held this time at the home of Mrs. SOUVENIR HISTORY. W. H. Warren, on Main street and then, in St. Mark's Hall, on Sun- day afternoon, March 19, 1893, the people gathered, to the number of about one hundred, and listened while Mr. Kelly preached the everlast- ing Gospel from I. Peter i, 8. From that dav a Methodist church in Foxboro was an assured GEORGE R. ELLIS. WILLIAM A. COOLIDGE. fact, although the church, as such, was not organized until July 31, 1893. At the time of organization the people were worshiping in the Universalist Church edifice, whither they had gone when St. Mark's Hall proved too small for the congregation. A Sunday school was organized October I, with forty-two members. In October, 1894, the exclusive use of Samaritan Hall, on School street, was secured, the room appropriately arranged for divine service, and it is in this hall that the church at present assembles. The class meeting tap-root of every Methodist church has from the start nourished under the very efficient leadership of Mr. R. W. Heald. Dis- couragements and perplexing prob- lems exist; yet, though still what might be called a "struggling church," it looks with hopefulness to future days. Rev. W. J. Kelly continued as pastor until the end of his South Wai- pole pastorate in April, 1894, when he B. w. HEALD. was succeeded bv Rev. Charles E. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 77 Beals, who did service jointly at Foxboro and Mansfield. At the ex- piration of one year he was followed by Rev. J. O. Randall, who, in turn, after two years of effective service, was followed by the present pastor, Rev. W. S. Foster. PASTORS. 1893. W. J. Kelly 1895-96. J. O. Randall 1894. C. E. Beale 1897. W. S. Foster PRESENT OFFICIARY. W. A. Coolidge, F. B. Kingman, R. W. Heald, Alexander Ross, G. M. Barren, George R. Ellis, Florence Kingman, Mrs. R. W. Heald, May Leighton, Mrs. N. S. Small, S. H. Clapp, N. S. Small, A. E. Hanscom, R. G. Leighton, George C. McGregor, J. W. Alden, James G. Shaw. Sunday School Superintendent, William A. Coolidge; Assistant Superintendent, George R. Ellis; Secretary, Chester Patterson; Treas- urer, May H. Leighton; Librarian, R. G. Leighton; Assistant Libra- rian, George M. Barron. Teachers Mrs. E. J. Ellis, Miss Edna Small, Miss Florence King- man, Mrs. Addie J. Foster, Miss Blanche Bence, Miss Ada Hayes, R. W. Heald, W. H. Fletcher, Class Leader R. W. Heald. Epworth League President, George Ellis; First Vice-President, George Brown; Second Vice-President, Ada Hayes; Third Vice-Presi- dent, May Leighton; Fourth Vice-President, Louise Smith; Secre- tary, Edna Small; Treasurer, Blanche Bence. M. E. CHURCH, HANOVER, MASS. In the home of Samuel and Mary Stetson, parents of the late Rev. William H. Stetson, the Hanover Methodist Episcopal Church had her genesis. Mrs. Stetson, the Barbara Heck of the society, came from old Bennet Street Church, Boston, and found in Captain Zephaniah Talbot an aggressive Christian. By their untiring labor and constant zeal the first class was organized. Prominent among those who la- bored in this germinal class were John Gardner, Katie and Pattie Syl- vester and Lydia Stetson. The next place of worship was the schoolhouse, to which the first itinerant preacher came. The class was joined in turn to Scituate and South Abington many times. Union Hall was the next place of wor- ship. From 1844 to 1852 the class grew strong enough to erect the SOUVENIR HISTORY. present church edifice. Rev. L. B. Bates broke the ground and Rev. Nathan P. Philbrook built and dedicated the church. A neat, cheerful THE HANOVER CHURCH. vestry was added to the building in 1885 by Mrs. Betsey B. Tolman, at a cost of $1,500. The growth of the church has been gradual for the past five years, REV. C. H. WILLIAMS. ALEXANDER WEATHERBEE. Epworth League President. until the membership has reached 69. The Epworth League was or- ganized in 1894, and has been very active. There is now a member- ship of 52. The church has been a training school for young men. Since the day Rev. L. B. Bates preached his first sermon here many young men have, served the church. These ministers are scattered over the SOUVENIR HISTORY. 79 United States to the Pacific Coast, and some of them are in foreign mission work. As our own preachers, we claim the late William H. Stetson, whose early life was spent here in our church, and who proved MRS. BETSEY B. TOLiMAN. (Oldest Member, 88 Years.) MELVIN LITTLE. such an efficient worker for God, and the late John W. Willett, who was converted here. His conversion from infidelity was only less re- markable than his long, useful ministry. The church is alive; the outlook is encouraging. PASTORS. 1844-45-. Dixon Stebbins 1870. 1846. Aaron Adams 1847-48. E. H. Hatfield 1871-72. 1849. N. P. Philbrook 1873-74. 1850. John Middleton 1875. Lewis B. Bates 1876. 1851. N. B. Philbrook 1877. 1852. S. Puffer 1878. Joseph Marsh 1879. l8 53-54- George H. Winchester 1880. l8 55-56. Lemuel Harlow 1857. Samuel Norris 1881-82. 1858. John Spilstead 1883. 1859. L. E. Dunham 1884. 1860-61. Henry Mayo 1885. 1862. Robert Clark 1863. Lemuel Harlow 1886. 1864. Lawton Cady 1865. George E. Fuller 1887-89. 1866-67. Stephen Y. Wallis 1890. 1868-69. John N. Collier C. A. Carter George H. Lamson Edward L. Hyde E. A. Boyden W. A. Luce Richard Povey W. H. Turkington E. G. Babcock C. M. Comstock Henry P. Haylett B. K. Bosworth I. R. Lovejoy J. L. Shively W. F. Lawford Henry Swartz George Coe E. N. Kirby Philip Price H. A. Ridgeway Fred Rounds Joseph Waterman #0 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1891. C. O. Kepler 1^93-95- Jerome Greer 1892. J. J. Shingler 1896-97. C. H. Williams C. E. De LaMater PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees M. Little, F. E. Henderson, Henry Gardner, Charles Hunt, H. J. Tolman. Stewards Henry Gardner (Rec. S.), John Corthell (Dist. S.), Mrs. Charlotte Barnard, Mrs. Betsey B. Tolman, Miss Lydia B. Greene, Miss Flora M. Barnard, Alexander Weatherbee, Will Apple- ford, Charles Pratt. Class Leader M. Little. Sunday School Superintendent, M. Little; Librarian, W. C. Bar- nard; Secretary, Alonzo Whiting; Organist, Alice Church; Teachers, C. S. Dean, Mrs. Charlotte Barnard, F. H. Kidder, Alexander Wea- therbee, Mrs. Alice Barnard. Epworth League President, Alexander Weatherbee; First Vice- President, F. H. Baker; Second Vice-President, Mrs. F. E. Hender- son; Third Vice-President, Mrs. Clarence Barnard; Secretary, William Appleford. M. E. CHURCH, HEBRONVILLE. Hebronville Church was organized April 4, 1875, with twenty- seven members, George W. Brewster, Presiding Elder, John Q. Adams, preacher in charge; George Dean and Alfred Chatterton, class leaders. Stephen A. Knight, agent of Hebronville Mills Company, fur- nished a hall, an organ, fuel, heating and lighting facilities. Mr. John Kendrick of Providence presented the church with a good communion service, and James Davis of Pawtucket with a good- ly number of Sunday school books. In 1877, during the pastorate of John H. Sherman, twenty-eight persons united with the church on probation; while in 1880, under the faithful and zealous labors of G. W. Wright, there were forty-seven additions to the church. In 1881 C. S. Nutter was appointed to the charge. He at once felt the need of a house of worship, and accordingly began to take subscriptions towards this end. Four thousand dollars was soon sub- scribed and ground was broken and appropriate services held October 29, 1881. In April, 1882, Eben Tirrell was appointed to this charge. He took up the work and with the generous aid afforded by Mr. Stephen A. Knight and others, living without the bounds of charge, completed SOUVENIR HISTORY. 8l the edifice. Rev. W. V. Morrison, D. D., had charge of the dedica- tion services, Rev. Angelo Canoll preaching the sermon. The com- pleted church was valued at $10,000. Hebronville has suffered greatly through the "business depres- THE HEBRONVILLE CHURCH. sion," and while to-day the church is financially weak w r ith 41 mem- bers, is nobly struggling for existence with prospects, with returning national prosperity, of a brighter future. l8 75- John Q. Adams 1876-78. John H. Sherman 1879. Robert Clark 1880. G. W. Wright 1881. Charles S. Nutter 1882. E. Tirrell 1883. S. M. Beale 1884-85. J. Q. Adams PASTORS. 1886-87. 1888. 1889. 1890. 1890-95. 1896. 1897. C. N. Hinckley F. C. Baker Edwin F. Jones William H. Starr William B. Heath F. D. Sargent O. A. Farley PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stewards Henry Carpenter, John Carpenter, Everett Holbrook, Frank Holbrook, Charles L. Atwell, Hugh A. Smith, Byron R. Hill, Jerome Patterson, Sarah Bowen, Nettie Atwell, Eliza Lamb, Isabella L. Ide, Mrs. Byron R. Hill. Sunday School Superintendent, John H. Carpenter; Assistant Superintendent, Hugh A. Smith; Secretary, Bell L. Ide; Assistant Secretary, Everett Holbrook; Treasurer, Lizzie Claflin; Librarian, Everett Holbrook; Assistant Librarian, Bell L. Ide; Organist, Nettie Atwell. Teachers Pastor, Henry Carpenter, Hattie Atwell, John H. g 2 SOUVENIR HISTORY. .Carpenter, Willard B. Atwell, Nettie B. Rounds, Sarah C. Bowen, Cora E. Gross. Epworth League of Christian Endeavor President, F. Everett .Holbrook; Vice-President, J. H. Carpenter; Recording Secretary, Ruth M. Blanchard; Corresponding Secretary, Bell L. Ide; Treas- urer, Nettie Atwell; Organist, Nettie Rounds. M. E. CHURCH, HILL'S GROVE, R. I. The Methodist Episcopal Church at Hill's Grove was organized May 7, 1884, in the schoolhouse of Hill's Grove. M. J. Talbot, D. D., Presiding Elder, opened the service with prayer and preached a ser- mon on "The Work of the Church." The following were elected THE HILL'S GROVE CHURCH. trustees: Isaac Charles, Benjamin Gardner, David M. Pierce, David Alexander, Andrew J. Allen, William G. James, Edwin J. Watts. Religious meetings were held here for several years prior to 1884, and were chiefly led by students from East Greenwich ; some of them preached occasionally. Professor Albro served the people for a while, and was followed by Rev. George E. Dunbar, the latter being the first pastor of the organized church, and remaining such till 1886. He was succeeded by Rev. William H. Stetson. Up to this time, and during the first year of Mr. Stetson's pastor- ate, religious services were held in the village school house. But dur- ing the second year Mr. Stetson caused to be erected the present church, which is situated in the most desirable part of the village. SOUVENIR HISTORY. This work he superintended with marked wisdom and untiring zeal, and revealed himself to be just the man for the task on hand. What- ever he undertook to do was done well; consequently this church is of fine architecture, best material, well made, and excellent furnish- ings. No pews can be found better arranged and more comfortable to the occupants; all of them are cushioned alike. The lot was given by the late Thomas J. Hill, and is valued at $600. The "Elizabeth Mills Co.," of which he was the principal owner, gave $3,000 for the building of the church. Mrs. Thomas J. Hill gave liberally for the church furnishings, and so did others out- side of the parish. Mr. John A. Whipple of Connecticut, a stranger MRS. G. H. BUTLER. REV. G. H. BUTL.ER. to all connected with the church, hearing of the enterprise, sent $100, saying he wished to have a part in furnishing the church. The entire cost of lot, church and furnishings was about $8,000. Mr. Stetson remained another year to enjoy the fruit of his labors. He was followed, 1889, by Rev. Alexander Anderson, who greatly en- deared himself to the people by his labors of love. In the spring of 1892 Rev. H. A. Ridgway was appointed in his place to serve the church, and remained three years, rendering the people excellent service. He was followed by Rev. George H. Butler, who is at this writing, 1897, the pastor of the church. During the fall of 1895 a bell, costing about $150, was purchased for the church; and in the early spring of 1897 Mr. and Mrs. W. G. James, officials of the church, donated the church a beautiful and costly chandelier and several fine wall lamps. These were greatly needed and are much prized. 8 4 SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. The church fronts a street of two rows of magnificent maple trees, which are the admiration of all visitors. There is no parsonage, but a fine house adjacent to the church is used as such, and is well fur- nished. The Ep worth League was organized September 19, 1892. GEORGE L. WESTCOTT. Epworth League President. CLARENCE ARNOLD. Ex-Epworth League Pres. PASTORS. 1884-85. G. E. Dunbar 1886-88. W. H. Stetson 1889-91. Alex. Anderson 1892-94. H. A. Ridgway ^95-97- G. H. Butler PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Andrew J. Allen, President; William G. James, Treas- urer; George L. Westcott, Secretary; Benjamin C. Sweet, Richard Bell, Frank H. Westcott, Mary McGhee, Jennie M. Kent, Laura E. Arnold. Stewards George L. Westcott (R. S.), Richard Bell (D. S.), Celia R. James, Abby E. Allen, Mary McGhee, Nellie L. Quimby, Mabel E. Sweet, Albert T. Farnum. Sunday School Rev. George H. Butler, Superintendent; George L. Westcott, Assistant Superintendent; Mynie Budlong, Secretary; Alpheus Place, Treasurer; Emma F. Butler, Chorister; Mabel Jenkins, Pianist; John Place, Librarian. Teachers Mrs. G. H. Butler, Mary McGhee, Jennie Kent, Mabel Sweet, Nellie L. Quimby, Stella Jor- den, Celia R. James, Ida Smith, G. H. Butler. Epworth League G. L. Westcott, President; First Vice- President, Jennie M. Kent; Second Vice-President, Mary McGhee; Third Yice-President, Ethel Jenkins; Fourth Vice-President. Mabel Jenkins; Treasurer and Secretary, Nellie L. Quimby. SOUVENIR HISTORY. So faithfully and with such marked ability has G. L. Westcott for many years attended to the work of Recording- Steward that several Presiding Elders of the district have said that he was unsurpassed on the district in the work of his office. M. E. CHURCH, HINGHAM, MASS. This church was originally included in what was called the Scitu- ate Circuit, from 1807 to 1826. After that, for two years, it was in- cluded in Weymouth Circuit. In 1828 it became a separate society. As early as -1807 Hingham was visit- ed by a Methodist minister by the name of Thomas Asbury, a cousin of Bishop Francis Asbury, the first or- dained in America. In 1809 Moses Tower of Hingham married Mary Binney of Hull, who was a Methodist. For several years their house and that of Robert Goold were opened to the meetings of the society. After the erection of the church in Cohasset the Hingham Methodists attended meet- ings there for several years. Some of the first preachers of this denomina- J tion in Hingham were Thomas As- bury, George Pickering, John Brodhead, J. Snelling, Joseph A. Mer- rill, Benjamin F. Lambord, Stephen Bailey, Edward Hyde, A. Lum- mis, Richard Emory, a distant relative of Bishop John Emory, Emorv Bradbury Clay, Bar- tholomew Otheman, O. Rob- erts, B. Hazleton, Jotham Horton, Isaac Jennison, Frederick Upham, A. D. Sargent, Stephen Puffer, B. Jones, John Adams, Moses Sanderson, L. R. Suther- land, Samuel Xorris and Ja- red Perkins. The first class was formed in 1818 bv Rev. .. THK HINGHAM PARSONAGR. Edward T. Taylor (Father Taylor). The following towns were embraced in the Scituate THE HINGHAM CHURCH. 86 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Circuit, which was his first charge: Scituate, Hingham, Cohasset, Hull, Marshfield, Duxbury, Plympton, Hanson, Pembroke, Wey- mouth, Quincy and Dorchester. The class formed in Hingham con- sisted of seven members, whose names were as follows : Robert Goold, Mary Goold, George Lincoln, Abigail Goold Tower, Jane Goold, Mary G. Pratt and T. Wilder. In 1828 Rev. Stephen Puffer, a local preacher, erected a house of worship, at a cost of $1,820. This church was dedicated July 3, 1828, and the pews sold to compensate Mr. Puffer. From this time Hing- ham became a station. Then the New England Conference embraced all the New England States. Afterwards a division was made, and REV. W. J. HAMBLETON. MRS. W. J. BAMBLETON. Hingham was included in the Providence Conference. Later, the name was changed to the New England Southern Conference. The church was remodeled and repaired in the year 1845, a ^ so 1867, when it was moved toward the rear of the lot. At this time a spire was placed on the front. In 1882 the church was moved to the opposite side of North street, where it now stands. In the year 1883 Mrs. Puffer, the widow of Rev. Stephen Puffer, who preached as a supply during the year 1832, gave the society $1,000, by which a parsonage was built. Rev. W. J. Hambleton, the present pastor, is on his fifth year. He is a member of the New England Conference. He came to Hing- ham four years ago, on account of his wife's health, and has supplied the church since coming. The church could never boast of wealth or numbers, but has zealously "contended for the faith that was once delivered to the SOUVENIR HISTORY. saints." Many have been converted at her altars, who have gone out to join other churches, and not a few have gone to Heaven. Seven DR. C. H. HARDY. L. W. SOUTHER. young ladies once members have married ministers. Both church and parsonage are free from debt. MRS. SALKLE PUFFER. 1828. Samuel Heath Nathan Spaulding 1829. Selah Stocking ^830. C. Richardson PASTORS. 1831. 1832. i&33- 1834. 1835- 1836. 1837- 1838. 1839. 1840. 1841. 1842. 1843-44. 1845- 1 846-47. 1848. 1849. 1850. 1851. I852-53- 1854. 1855- 1856. A. U. Swinerton Stephen Puffer R. W. Allen P. W. Nichols A. Hale George W. Bates Daniel Wise James Mudge Daniel McGear Robert Gould William Davenport A. Gardner L. Daggett S. S. Cook George W. Rogers A. H. Newton Thomas Spilstead J. Burley Hunt S. Beedle E. F. Hincks Daniel Webb F. A. Loomis Paul Townsend L. Leffingwell 88 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1857. 1858-59. 1 860-6 1. 1862. 1863-65. 1866-68. 1869-71. 1872-73. 18/4-75- 1876. 1877. 1878. 1879. Amos Binney 1880. F. A. Loomis 1881. Robert Clark 1882. E. B. Hinckley 1883. William H. Starr 1884. George E. Fuller 1885. Merritt P. Alderman 1886. J. H. Nutting 1887. Charles Hammond 1888-89. J. O. Thompson 1890. Miss Annie H. Shaw i8gi-92. Charles M. Comstock 1893-97. George H. Huffman H. M. Cole W. W. Hall A. Canoll W. F. Lawford Arthur Thompson W. D. Woodward B. F. Jackson George B. Norton J. H. Newland S. F. Johnson F. G. Babcock W. J. Hambleton PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees O. B. Sears, L. D. J. Sears, John M. Tower, L. Griggs, C. H. Hardy, A. Rich, H. Inman, Winthrop Lincoln, George W. Cobb. Stewards O. B. Sears, J. M. Tower, M. D. Dunbar, Miss Mary B. Cazneau, Mrs. Ella A. Sears, L. W. Souther, T. G. Leigh, L. Griggs, Charles Lincoln. Sunday School Superintendent, Dr. C. H. Hardy; Assistant Su- perintendent, L. W. Souther; Secretary, Thirza Griggs; Treasurer, Howard Inman. Epworth League President, L. W. Souther; Secretary, Miss Mamie Sears. Junior League President, Mrs. S. D. Hambleton. M. E. CHURCH, HOLRROOK, MASS. In July, 1878, the Methodists of Holbrook, having no church of that denomination in the town, met together to consider the matter. On Wednesday, July 31, 1878, the first class meeting was held, about twelve persons being present. Mr. Lewis Alden was chosen class leader. These meetings were continued with profit until October following, when a prayer meeting was formed also. This was held at the home of Joseph W. Thayer, twenty-two persons being present. These prayer-meetings were greatly helped by the presence of Rev. E. M. Taylor and friends from the M. E. Church of South Braintree. From fifty to seventy-five were present on pleasant evenings. On February n, 1879, R gv - ^- A. Whedon organized the Holbrook M. E. Church, consisting of seven members and two probationers. Library Hall was secured as a place of meeting and the action of the Providence Conference in April was awaited with interest. Rev. SOUl/ENIR HISTORY. 89 C. M. Comstock was sent by the Presiding Elder to hold the first service April 27, 1879. Rev - B - L . Duckwall supplied for the next two weeks. The Sunday School was instituted on May n, 1879, an d numbered fifty-two-, Lewis Alden being the superintendent chosen. The first Quarterly Conference, held May n, 1879, was presided over by Rev. J. W. Willett. On May 18, Rev. D. C. Stevenson entered upon his labors here and continued until September 7, 1879. Rev. A. M. Osgood, W. C. Kelt and Nelson Edwards finished the conference year. Having pur- chased an organ and a library of two hundred volumes, the society was now on the way to prosperity. Rev. Elisha M. Dunham was ap- pointed to this charge by the next conferencee, and arrived Saturday, April 17, 1880. He was given a warm reception, for on this day Library Hall building was burned to the ground. With the excep- tion of the contribution boxes and a few hymnals, and the library books in the hands of the scholars, the property of the M. E. Church was lost. Having the ability to "take the collection and sing," the Town Hall was secured as a place of worship for eight succeeding Sundays, but being too large, the committee rooms were secured. Mr. Dunham resigned his pastorate October 7, 1880, on account of his wife's illness, and the church for the rest of the year was served by H. P. Haylet, E. B. Bancroft and W. C. Endley, students of Boston University. During this year money was raised for a lot, and it was purchased. Rev. F. J. Ward served the charge for three months and then Howard E. Cooke took up the work. During his pastorate the present house of worship was erected, the plan and specifications be- ing furnished by the pastor. The society received help from the citi- zens of the town who worshiped elsewhere, and from friends in Brockton, who were very liberal to the new enterprise. Among these latter was Philip Reynolds, to whom the society is largely indebted for financial aid. LEWIS ALDEN. 1st Class Leader and 1st S. S. Supt. SOUVENIR HISTORY. The dedication took place February 8, 1882, and to the surprise of many over seventeen hundred dollars were pledged under the solicitations of Rev. J. W. Hamilton, D. D., then of Boston. Rev. M. J. Talbot, the Presiding Elder, had charge of the services. Dr. Hamilton preached the morning sermon, and Rev. J. O. Knowles in the evening. During the year 1883 the church at West Abington was joined with this charge, and so remained until the spring of 1885. Soon after the dedication of the new church a revival, during which many who are now workers in the Master's cause were converted, was car- WILLIAM B. CROCKER. Sunday School Superintendent. THE HOLBROOK CHURCH. ried on. Another class was formed September 29, 1883, with William B. Crocker as leader. These two leaders continue to the present. Rev. George E. Brightman was next appointed to this charge, in 1884, and continued two years. He was succeeded by Rev. E. W. Goodier, who did permanent work for the church. Rev. S. T. Patterson followed, and was called upon to part with his wife while serving this charge. J. H. Buckey was the next pastor to carry on the Lord's work in this place. J: N. Geisler succeeded, and while here he "passed through deep waters," his wife called away from his side to a better home above. In April, 1895, Frederick W. Coleman was appointed to the charge, which he served two years. PASTORS. 18/9. D. C. Stevenson, A. M. Osgood, W. C. Holt, Nelson Edwards. 1880. E. M. Dunham, H. P. Haylett, E. B. Bancroft, W. C. Enclley. 1881. F. J. Ward 1889-90. S. T. Patterson H. E. Cook 1891-92. 1882-83. H. E. Cook 1893-94. 1884-85. G. E. Brightman 1895-96. 1886-88. E. W. Goodier 1897. J. H. Buckey J. N. Geisler F. W. Coleman W. H. Allen SOUVENIR HISTORY. 91 PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees W. B. Crocker, Fred Smith, C. C. Webster, Dr. C. W. Clark, F. E. Wilde, George E. Yahnig, F. -C. Townsend, John Stanley. Stewards Lewis Alden, S. W. Schofield, W. B. Crocker, C. C. Webster, Dr. C. W. Clark, F. Z. Phillips, Mrs. J. E. Nickerson, Nelson Belcher, Mrs. E. Henderson. Class Leaders Mr. Lewis Alden and Mr. W. B. Crocker. Sunday School W. B. Crocker, Superintendent; Miss Exine Richardson, Secretary and Treasurer; Miss Ella Phillips, Irving Dyer, Librarians. Teachers Mrs. J. E. Nickerson, Nelson Belcher, Mrs. Lewis Alden, Mrs. George E. Yahnig, Miss Mabel Alden, Mr. Lewis Alden, Mrs. F. Z. Phillips. Primary Class Miss Susan Armstrong. Epworth League Miss Mabel Alden, President; Mr. Fred Smith, Secretary. Junior League Ethel Dyer, President; Lizzie Stanley, Secretary. M. E. CHURCH, HOPE, R. I. Near the Hope Company's mill there still stands an old building which is intimately associated with the early religious history of THE HOPE CHURCH. E. P. EMMONS. Sunday School Superintendent. Epworth League President. the village. In this building there is a room known as the old "picker room." This was used in the old days for gatherings of all kinds, being the only hall in the village. Here about 1843 was organized SOUVENIR HISTORY. the Sunday school, which has continued to flourish from that time to the present. Mr. Samuel G. Allen became superintendent of the mill about the date mentioned and his religious influence was strongly felt dur- ing the many years he spent in that position. He early united with the Phoenix Methodist Episcopal Church, and in 1850 he was ap- pointed a class leader at Hope, the members of his class being also members of Phoenix charge. The pastors of the Phoenix Church used to preach in the old "picker room" occasionally in those days (1844- 1870). In the spring of 1871 we have a record that Dr. M. J. Talbot, Pre- siding Elder of Providence District, met with the Evangelical Church REV. K. S. HAMMOND. MKS. E. S. HAMMOND. of South Scituate (a few miles from Hope) and in accordance with their request organized them into a Methodist Episcopal church. The same season Rev. John Q. Adams was appointed pastor of that church, and with this appointment the history of Hope M. E. Church practically begins. Mr. Adams did not find the work at South Scituate sufficiently promising to justify the employment of all his time in that locality, so he organized a circuit, and in his third year he reports that he preached once a month at Hope Village, "where I have a very good congregation and attentive hearers." At the Conference of 1874 the appointment reads: "South Scituate and Hope, F. D. Goodrich." Mr. Goodrich lived in Hope, and the records indicate that he organized the Hope Methodist Church. William Kirkby was appointed in 1875 to these same two places, but the order of the names was reversed, and the charge known as "Hope SOUVENIR HISTORY. 93 and South Scituate," another indication of Hope's growing import- ance. At the very beginning of this pastorate occurred an event of great significance for this church. On May i3th, 1875, was dedicated the church edifice which is still occupied. This building was erected by the Hope Company and is still owned by them, but they furnish it free of charge, and have from the beginning provided fuel, lights and janitor without cost to the society. At the close of Mr. Kirkby's pastorate of two years it was not thought advisable to continue the work at South Scituate, and so Hope was joined to Washington for the next twelve years (1877-89). In 1889 Hope wished for a separate pastor, and Dr. W. V. Morrison supplied the church for a year; and since that time Hope has been a station by itself, excepting three months in 1891-92, when F. H. Spear of Washington filled out D. L. Brown's unexpired term. There have been revivals in these years of history, notably in the pastorates of Messrs. Kirkby, Hamlen, Hinck- ley, Baker and Kelly, but with the change of population incident to a manufacturing community, few are left of the many converted here. Three ministers have gone out from this church: J. H. McDonald of our own conference, William C. Townsend of the New England Con- ference, and Walter Green of the Six-Principle Baptist Church. There is now a membership including probationers of forty-seven. The Sunday school is very flourishing. When the present Super- intendent, Mr. E. P. Emmons, completes this year, he will have occu- pied that position for twenty-two years. There are about a hundred and forty members, with an average attendance of seventy-five. The Epworth League was organized September 18, 1894, during the successful pastorate of Rev. W. J. Kelly. It is well officered and is a small but choice group of young people. The present enrollment is forty-three. During the present year a most gracious revival has blessed the church. About thirty were added to the church. PASTORS. :8 73- J- Q- Adams 1888. A. Anderson 1874. F. D. Goodrich 1889. W. V. Mowison 1 8 75-76. William Kirkby 1890. H. D. Adams 1877-78. Z. S. Haynes 1891. D. L. Brown 1879-80. C. S. Morse F. H. Spear 1881-82. G. M. Hamlen 1892-93. Merrick Ransom 1883-85. C. N. Hinckley 1894-95. W. J. Kelly 1886-87. F. C. Baker 1896. E. S. Hammond 94 SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stewards Richard G. Rowland (R. S.), Edwin P. Emmons D. S.), A. Lowell Johnson, William H. Latham, Mrs. A. L. Johnson, Mrs. W. H. Latham, Mrs. Byron Brown, Mrs. Welcome Potter, Miss Sarah Carr. Sunday School Superintendent, E. P. Emmons; Assistant Super- intendent, John H. Clarke; Treasurer, R. G. Rowland; Secretary, Stella Colvin; Librarian, Arthur Johnson ; Organist, Annie Emmons. Teachers E. S. Hammond, Mrs. W. H. Latham, E. P. Emmons, Mrs. A. L. Johnson, Mrs. E. P. Emmons, Lena Knight, John H. Clarke, Mrs. Byron Brown, M. Ethel Latham, Sarah Carr, Mabel Latham, Edith Bates. Epworth League Benton, No. 13,419: President, E. P. Emmons; First Vice-President, Mrs. Byron Brown; Second Vice-President, Mrs. William H. Latham; Third Vice-President, John H. Clarke; Fourth Vice-President, Sarah Rawlinson; Secretary, M. Ethel Latham; Treas- urer, Stella Colvin. M. E. CHURCH, HOPE VALLEY, R. I. About the year 1830 a local preacher by the name of Sturdevant, a school teacher in Hope Valley, organized a class at Gideon Palmer's THE HOPE VALLEY CHURCH. home. But very little was accomplished for some years; the seed was watered by passing itinerants, however, until it matured in 1845 into the little branch of the Methodist Episcopal church which has strug- gled for existence in the town of Hopkinton for more than fifty years. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 95 A little church was built at the village of Rockville, and was subse- quently removed to Hope Valley about the year 1851, when Rev. Stanton Austin was pastor. A brief notice of Rev. Mr. Austin, who served the church faithfully for more than thirty consecutive years, will not be out of place. He was born in 1812; he was converted, baptized, and joined the church when quite young. He received an exhorter's license from Presiding Elder R. W. Allen, and a local preacher's license from Rev. Sanford Benton. He was ordained a local deacon by Bishop Baker in 1856, and local elder in 1861, at the hands of Bishop Simpson. He died in July, 1896. After the long and faithful pastorate of Mr. Austin, which came to an end in 1886, the church was closed almost a year, when O. W. Scott REV. C. B. BROMLEY. MRS. C. B. BROMLEY. was sent by the Presiding Elder to work up a new interest in the nearly defunct cause. The result of these special efforts was seen in the re-opening of the church and the appointment of Rev. W. D. Woodward to the pastorate for three successive years. The church was revived, and, after much needed repairs, it became a neat edifice. It is situated between two beautiful villages, Hope Valley and Wyo- ming. After a pleasant pastorate from 1887 to 1890, the Conference wheel turned Mr. Woodward out and J. H. Baker in, for a two years' pastorate. The cause seems again to have suffered, and shortly after the Conference of 1893 the church was again closed, and it remained closed about three years. In the winter of 1895, through the earnest efforts of a faithful few, interest in the again almost defunct cause was aroused, and worship ( j6 SOUVENIR HISTORY. was renewed in the little church by students from East Greenwich Academy, one of them being ]. O. Rutter, who, at the order of Pre- siding Elder S. O. Benton, came to take charge of the Hope Valley Church in July, 1895. The Sunday school was revived and all the departments of the church are and have been actively engaged in the work of building up the society. The result of this has been that at the present time the Sunday school is about as large as at any period in the history of the local church. From a membership of twenty- three the church has advanced to thirty-nine, with eight persons on probation, notwithstanding that three deaths have taken place during the past year. A band of Crusaders worked with the pastor for five weeks in 1895. Chapter 15,509 of the Epworth League was organized during the pastorate of J. O. Rutter. Rev. C. B. Bromley is the present pas- tor. PASTORS. 1851-86. Stanton Austin 1893-94. No Pastor 1887-89. W. D. Woodward 1895-96. J. O. Rutter 1890-91. J. H. Baker l &97- C. B. Bromley 1892. William Turkington PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees L. M. Barber, James E. Larkin, John A. Crandall, E. T. Spencer, Ransom Burdick, S. A. Nichols, John Gill, Edwin Boss. Stewards S. A. Nichols, L. M. Barber, J. E. Larkin, E. T. Spencer, E. Boss, Richard Shepherd, James Prince, John Gill, J. A. Crandall, G. Wright, B. Newton. Sunday School Superintendent, E. T. Spencer; Assistant Super- intendent, S. A. Nichols; Secretary, Miss Nettie Spencer; Librarian, Mrs. Richard Shepherd. Teachers L. M. Barber, Miss Carrie Boss, Mrs. S. A. Nichols, C. B. Bromley, Mrs. C. B. Bromley. Epworth League President, the Pastor; First Vice-President, R. J. Newton; Second Vice-President, Mrs. J. O. Rutter; Third Vice- President, George Wright; Fourth Vice-President, James Prince; Secretary, Mrs. Richard Shepherd; Treasurer, Richard Shepherd. M. E. CHURCH, HULL, MASS. Hull was settled very early by some of the Plymouth Colony. It is said that in 1633 Hull had twenty houses to Boston's one. The first minister settled in this interesting village was Rev. Ralph Smith, of Salem, who came in 1629. The Rev. 7a-: u arir.h Whitman, a gradu- THE HULL CHURCH. ate of Harvard College, was the first regularly ordained minister of the town. He was installed September 13, 1670, and was pastor of the parish for more than fifty years. His salary was forty pounds a year and the use of the parsonage land and one of the thirty-two lots into which the town was divided. About the time of the Revolution the regular preaching service was discontinued. Many of the people favored the appointment of a Baptist preacher. The town suffered during the war, and its inhabitants were much im- poverished. In September, 1798, Jesse Lee came over from Boston and preached the first Methodist sermon from the text, "And Satan came also." But it was not until 1816 that a class of 15 was formed, and Hull be- came a charge on the Scituate circuit of the Sandwich district of the New England Conference. The parsonage land of the old Congrega- tional Church passed over into the hands of the Methodist trustees, and up to this day the funds are available for the support of the Gospel, THE: HULL PARSONAGE. 9 8 SOUVENIR HISTORY. In the "Scituate circuit" records, May 15, 1848, is the follow- ing report : "Hull Sabbath school reported prosperous, 5 officers and teachers, 25 pupils, 261 volumes in library, $5 raised for the expense REV. W. H. BUTLER. MRS. W. H. BUTLER. of the school, spiritual condition low, collection for missions $8.04. No report of pastoral visits." For many years the church was either part of a circuit or else supplied by a man who taught the school week days and preached on JOHN REED. Church Treasurer. MRS. E. J. McKANN. Pres. Ladles' Sewing Circle. Sunday. In 1857 Rev. Samuel Beedle, a supernumerary member of the New Hampshire Conference, took charge of the parish. During his pastorate of twelve years the present church was built, in 1881, SOUVENIR HISTORY. 99 and he also completed a valuable and complete history of the re- ligious development of the town. During the pastorate of Rev. E. E. Tarbell a powerful revival of religion swept the town. Following him came Revs. B. Palmer and George T. Norris, both students in the Boston University The- ological School. From April, 1890, to May, 1892, this church had three pastors. During the following pastorate of Rev. F. J. Fol- lansbee the present parsonage was purchased. It is interesting to note that no less than four ministers and six ministers' wives have been raised in this little church. The best known of the ministers, Rev. Amos Binney, was author of "Binney's Theological Compend," which has had extensive circulation in sev- MISS A. L. WILEY. Epworth League President. MRS. E. G. KNIGHT. Sunday School Superintendent. eral languages. The church still possesses the communion service of the old Congregational Church. In the summer a fine and cultured congregation often assembles within its walls. The church is much indebted to the Sewing Circle of the town and to the lady who has been its president for many years, as well as to the honored treasurer of the church, who, prior to the revival of religion under Rev. E. E. Tarbell, practically stood alone for the cause of Methodism. PASTORS. 1818. Enoch Mudge 1823-27. 1816. Bartholomew Otheman 1819-22. E. T. Taylor 1828. and others 1829-30. Stephen Puffer and others Joel Knight Jefferson Hamilton 100 1831-32- 1833-35- i8 3 6. 1837-38- 1839. 1840. 1841. 1842-43. 1844. 1845- 1846. 1847- 1848. 1849. 1850. 1851. 1852. 1853- 1854-55. 1857-61. 1862-63. SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. Josiah Litch 1864. Otis G. Smith 1865. Joel Knight 1866. Henry W. Adams 1867. Bradford K. Pierce 1868. Oliver E. Brown 1869. Oliver D. Morse 1870-71. Robert Gould 1872. William Holmes 1873. Abel Gardner 1874. ' Andrew McKeown 1875. O. Robbins 1876-87. Nahum Tainter 1887. Lewis Bates W. Oakley 1889. No Preaching 1890. Stephen Puffer 1891. J. Moore 1892-93. E. E. Kellogg No Preaching 1894. Stephen Puffer 1895-97. No Preaching Joseph Marsh Samuel M. Beal Charles A. Carter J. N. Collier Lorenzo Dibble Albert F. Baxter Arthur J. Fitz H. M. Kellogg Students No Preaching J. O. Thompson Samuel Beedle Elmer E. Tarbell Byron Palmer George T. Norris Richard E. Schuh Edwin D. Hall J. B. Smith Frank J. Follansbee Charles N. Hinckley William H. Butler PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees John Reed, Lewis P. Loring, Edward G. Knight, George Mann, M. D. McDonald. Stewards J. Reed, E. G. Knight, Mrs. Louis Sirovich, Mrs. Charles Knight, Mrs. Edward G. Knight. Sunday School Superintendent, Mrs. Edward G. Knight; Secre- tary, Fred Souther; Librarian, William Knight; Organist, Miss Hattie Reed. Teachers John Reed, A. E. Knight, Mrs. John Reed, Miss Reed, Pastor. Epivorth League Jesse Lee Chapter, No. 18,101 : President, Miss A. L. Wyllie; First Vice-President, A. E. Knight; Second Vice-Presi- dent, Miss H. S. Reed; Third Vice-President, Mrs. E. J. Sirovich; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. G. H. Mann; Secretary, Mrs. C. V. Nickerson. EMMANUEL M. E. CHURCH, MANSFIELD, MASS. I THE MANSFIELD CHURCH. This church was organized in the year 1860, with sixteen mem- bers. The first meeting was held in the Temperance Hall over Roger- son Brothers' store, on April 8th. Rev. E. F. Hincks supplied the pulpit. Worship was con- r ~ ^IfT 1 tinued there until January, 1 86 1, from which time to April, 1864, there were no public services. Then the old Unitarian Church was hired and services were resumed, continu- ing for two years under the pas- torate of Rev. M. P. Alderman. In the spring of 1866 the society was again left without a place for public worship. After five years Mr. Isaac Lovell, a mem- ber of the society, having built a hall, offered it as a place of wor- ship, and services were again commenced in 1871, under the pastorate of Rev. W. J. Smith. Under the pastorate of Rev John Oldhani, on August 30, 1876, the present church edifice was begun, the building committee being Rev. 'John Oldhani. F. F. Shepardson and George Holland. The dedication ser- vices were held December 20. and the sermon preached by Bishop R. S. Foster. Under the pastorate of Rev. E. W. Goodier the church was re- paired, and under the evan- gelistic efforts oi Rev. Mr. Keyes quite an extensive re- vival took place. Under the pastorate of Rev. B. W. Hutchinson, the steeple was changed in style and the vestry en- larged. In 1890 Mr. C. T. Borden died, leaving the church a build- ing and lot for parsonage, which was sold and the present new build- ing erected, first occupied by Rev. C. E. Beals. at the close of whose pastorate the church was again renovated and improved. THE MANSFIELD PARSONAGE. 102 SOUVENIR HISTORY. REV. E. F. STUBLBT. MRS. E. F. STUDLEY. PASTORS. 1860. 1864-65. 1871-72. 1873- 1874. 1875- 1876-77- 1878-79. 1880-82. 1883-84. 1885. 1886-87. 1888-90. 1891. 1892-95. 1896. E. F. Hincks M. P. Alderman W. J. Smith F. C. Newell J. H. Humphrey W. H. Turkington J. Oldham T. J. Everett E. W. Gocdier N. W. Jordan W. H. Stetson B. W. Hntchinson C. N. Hinckley S. T. Patterson C. E. Beals E. F. Studlev DANIEL H. FOX (Acting Supt.) PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees F. F. Shepardson, D. H. Fox, C. C. Hagerty, F. J. Evans, S. H. Witherwell, J. A. Belcher, John Cliff, Chas. H. Kittrell, George W. D. Holt. Stewards F. F. Shepardson, D. H. Fox, F. J. Evans, C. C. Hagerty, E. W. Stearns, M. C. Whitmore, I. T. Wilber, Eliza B. Grant, Miriam A. Gerrish, Isabel E. Reed, Alma M. Sawyer. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 103 Class Leader M. C. Whitmore. Epworth League President, Frank J. Evans; First Vice-President, Mrs. Lena Evans; Second Vice-President, Miriam A. Gerrish; Third Vice President, Annie Carpenter, Fourth Vice-President, Cassie Rec- tor; Secretary, Etta Barden; Treasurer, M. C. Whitmore; Superin- tendent of Junior League, Miriam A. Gerrish. Junior League President, Amy Boyden; First Vice-President, Jennie Tucker; Second Vice-President, Fred Rector; Third and Fourth Vice- Presidents. Jennie Gerrish; Secretary, Louise Kittrell; Treasurer, Murray Currier. Sunday School Superintendent, M. C. Whitmore; Assistant Su- perintendent, D. H. Fox; Secretary and Treasurer, W. A. Shepard- son; Librarian, Willie Freeman; Organist, Miriam A. Gerrish. FRANK J. EVANS. Epworth League President. M. C. WHITMORE. Sunday School Superintendent. M. E. CHURCH, NANTASKET, MASS. By Arthur Beale, Chairman of Board of Trustees. I _..- In looking over the records of this church, and in consultation with its oldest living members, I have been more than convinced of the wonderful over-ruling power of Him who has brought this church to its present standing. Methodist itinerants preached here very early in this century, among whom were Aaron Lum- mis, Bicknell, Merrill, Lorenzo Dow, and prob- ably Jesse Lee. The building of the first church in this place was through the constant effort and prayerful faith of one woman Sarah Beal, long known as "Aunt Sally Beal." From 1817 to 1823 meetings were held in houses, with occasional preaching. The earliest church records have been lost. But from some Hull church records (in a manuscript written in 1834) we take the following: "Dec. 18, 1818, at the formation of the Methodist So- ciety at Cohasset the following named appear, who were of Hull: Robert Gould, Molly Binney and Rachael Binney. 1819 Edward T. Taylor and Enoch Mudge preached this year." This church was orig- inally part of the famous "Scituate Circuit." The church is located in the extreme northern part of the town, and for over a half century it was known as the "North Cohasset Church." The first house of wor- ship was a very modest one, and was built on the spot where our post- master, Alfred Beal's home, now stands. This was built in 1823. The inspiration of this enterprise was the Rev. Stephen Puffer, then a local preacher, assisted by circuit preachers. Among those more frequently mentioned is one "Father Henderson," a colored preacher. This method was continued till 1829, \vhen Rev. William Ramsdell became pastor and served for two years. In 1831 Rev. Asa U. Swinerton was pastor. ! r< m 1832 to 1836 Rev. Stephen Puffer again served as pas- THE NANTASKET CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY 105 tor. In 1838 Enoch Mudge was pastor. From 1839 to ^46 Rev. Stephen Puffer again labored for the spiritual welfare of this commun- ity. It was during this pastorate that the present church edifice (ex- cept the steeple, which was added in more recent years) was built. The church was dedicated in September 1845. Edward T. Taylor {''Father Taylor") preached the sermon. It was a great event. Rev. Onesipherous Robbins served in 1847. Many kind things are recalled of him to this day by the people. From the old "Scituate circuit" records of June, 1847, we ta ^e the following: "State of religion in the society at Cohasset reported very low some, little improvement; means of grace not well attended; five classes; average attendance two-thirds of all the members." THE NANTASKET PARSONAGE. Rev. George H. Winchester served in 1848-49. He was a godly man, whose strong appeals made many realize their spiritual needs and some of the converts of his pastorate "remain unto this day." In 1850- 51 Rev. Daniel Webb was pastor. He was getting old, but was strong in faith, and greatly endeared himself to the people. In 1852-53 the pastor was Rev. John D. King, one of the best of men, a strict dis- ciplinarian, following out all its requirements, and insisting that others should do the same, yet beloved by all who knew him. Miss Elizabeth S. Tobey, the well-known New England evan- gelist, and who for six years was president of the Massachusetts W. C. T. U., about this time, when a little girl, while spending the summer here attended this church one Sunday morning, when her pastor, Rev. E. N. Kirk, D. D., of Alt. Vernon Church, Boston, was to preach. She was deeply moved by the sermon and went home and gave her heart to Christ that day. In 1859-60 came Rev. Lemuel Harlow, who ranks with Father Webb for piety and usefulness and in kind remembrance. io6 SOI J l 'F.NIR HISTORY It was during those years that tlie church had a splendid choir that enjoyed more than a local reputation. Abner Deal was the chorister, who also taught many "singing- schools" in the neighboring towns. Solomon J. Beal was the organist. The other members of this choir were Isaac W. Heals, Thomas Hudson, Welcome Beal, Mrs. Welcome Beal, Lydia A. Beal, Sarah Beal, Susan Frances Beal, Irene W. Beal, Nettie Gushing and James S. Beal. Rev. George S. Alexander was pastor in 1861. He had great in- fluence over the young in their games and social gatherings as well as in religious meetings. In 1866-67 Rev. John M. Collier was pastor. He was one of the kindliest of men, earnest in his work, but through REV. RENNETTS O. MILLER. MRS. ETHEL BEAL MILLER. pressure of circumstances over which he had no control, he was led to resign his ministerial work. A railroad accident soon after ended his life. It was here in 1869 to 1871 that the venerable J. B. Husted, well known as "Father Husted," closed his active ministry. The Presiding Elder's report for 1869 contains the following: "We have three flour- ishing churches at East Weymouth, Stoughton and North Cohasset.' ? He was very popular. He was ever ready in sympathy, in prayer, in sickness, in bereavement. From 1874 to 1876 Rev. J. O. Thompson served. He was an aggressive, painstaking, persistent worker for good. The Presiding Elder's report for 1876 says: "The parsonage at North Cohasset, chiefly through the efforts of Brother Thompson, has been enlarged, remodeled and generally improved at an expense of over $400." The church was also frescoed and a new pulpit suit placed in the church. A spiritual harvest also blessed his ministry here. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 107 The Methodist Conference wheel of 1882 brought the famous silver-tongued orator, Rev. Angelo Canoll, as pastor, the man of whom Bishop Foster said once, after hearing him preach: "I have heard a few great sermons: this is one of them." Mr. Canoll's pastorate was unique in many respects, and in some ways the most popular in the church's history. His eloquent sermons drew large numbers of the summer residents, who ordinarily attended other churches. A great many young people were converted during his pastorate. Rev. James Mather was a faithful pastor and preacher in 1884. Rev. John H. Allen spent two very pleasant and successful years here, 1885 and 1886. His strong, scholarly, yet helpful sermons and ARTHUR BE ALB. Sunday School Superintendent. WARRTSN LOTHROP. Kpworth League President. his conscientious, faithful pastoral labors made a deep and permanent influence for good upon the community. The years 1887 to 1889 marked the pastorate of Rev. Denison L. Brown. Mr. Brown stood up conscientiously for what he believed to be right, notwithstanding, these were trying years for the church. During the second year a church trouble arose which resulted in a large number of the members withdrawing, and organizing a Congre- gational Society in the village. In 1890-91 Rev. James H. Macdonald, fresh from college, came to take up the work. During Mr. Brown's last year efforts were be- gun to raise money for a thorough repairing of the church. Mr. Mac- donald took hold of the work with great enthusiasm and persistence. He succeeded in arousing not only the church people, but also the sum- I0 8 SOUl "ENIR HISTORY. mer residents, who contributed very generously. Hon. E. H. Dunn of Boston did much to secure the co-operation of the summer people and make the undertaking a success. As a result, about $2,000 were spent in remodeling the church. The present steeple was placed on the church, a new pulpit suit, new organ, new carpet, etc., added. About half of the $2,000 was provided for the time of the re-open- ing, when the sermon was preached by Rev. Charles H. Park- hurst, D. D., editor of Zion's Herald. Mr. Macdonald was very popu- lar with both old and young, and especially among the summer people. Rev. Charles Smith followed in 1892-93. His faithful spiritual preaching and pastoral labors showed fruit in many ways. No former pastor is more popular here to-day than he. GROUP OF THK LADIES' BENEVOLENT SOCIETY. Rev. Elijah Smith spent the year 1894 as pastor here, doing much faithful work. Then in 1895 came the present pastor, Rev. Rennetts C. Miller, a young man full of zeal and energy, who, early in 1895 began planning to clear the debt of nearly $500 that still remained on the church, and also to raise funds for placing a long-needed bell in the church tower. He found the Official Board had little faith in the project, and were rather reluctant to encourage his efforts. But holding on to his plan, he carried it to a successful completion, when on November 10, 1897, a series of "Jubilee Services" were begun, when Professor M. D. Buell, '. D.; Rev. W. N. Brodbeck, D. D., J. Walter Morris, A. M., and others gave addresses. The week closed with a "Grand Jubilee Con- cert," given by the famous East Weymouth Methodist Episcopal Church choir. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 109 January 29, 1896, Mr. Miller married Miss Ethel May Beal, an active Christian girl, a school teacher, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Laban O. Beal of this place. The wedding took place in the church, the ceremony being performed by Rev. W. N. Brodbeck, D. D., as- sisted by the Presiding Elder, S. O. Benton, D. D., and Rev. O. R. Miller of the New England Conference, a twin brother of the groom. Mr. Miller has also given very constant labor for the spiritual up- lift of the church. During his second year he had the Scituate charge, in addition to Nantasket, preaching there every Sunday afternoon. The year just closing has likewise been a very busy one for him. In addition to the regular pastoral work he has raised nearly $8cx> for the purchase of the new "Blymer" bell and the clearing off of the old standing debt (nearly $500), the greater part being contributed by the summer people. Thus during the present pastorate about $1,000 has been raised and spent on old debts and various church improve- ments. Special mention should be made . of the Epworth League and Ladies' Benevolent Society for their great financial assistance to the church in the past and present. A VIKW OF THK FAMOUS NANTASKKT UKAC'IF. Some gifts of friends must not be overlooked. Mrs. Sally I'uffer, wife of Stephen Puffer, left this church about $500. Mr. D. ( ). Wade for years remitted interest to the church on the debt, amounting to> $140. Rev. Samuel M. Beale of this Conference was sent out from this I10 SOUVENIR HISTORY. church. Of the spiritual and financial pillars of the church of years ago the following are worthy of mention : Thomas Hudson, Caleb Beal, Zaccheus Beal, James Barnes, Orrin Beal, Isaac Lambert, Samuel M. Beal, Abner Beal, Daniel Beal and Laban Beal. No great, sweeping revivals have ever come to this church, al- though conversions have been recorded of about every pastorate. Those specially marked by revival influences have been those of Puffer, Robbins, Winchester, Webb, Alexander, Husted, Thompson, Canoll, Charles Smith and the present pastor. Nantasket Beach has long been famous. Aside from Newport and Bar Harbor, this is, without doubt, the most popular summer re- sort on the New England coast. Some persons have pronounced it the most perfect natural beach in the world. Being but ten miles from Boston, by boat, it has become very popular for summer residences. Large numbers of Bostonians spend from three to five months of the year here. Many of these are well known throughout the financial, social, literary and religious circles of New England. As a result, this church enjoys the presence of many of the sum- mer visitors whose financial aid. as well as interest, is always appre- ciated by the church. PASTORS. 1847. Onesipherous Robbins 1848-49. George H. Winchester 1850-51. Daniel Webb l8 5 2 -53- J onn D - Kin g 1854. Lawton Cady 1855-56. Oliver P. Farrington l &57-5&- Thomas Spilsted 1859-60. Lemuel Harlow 1 86 1. George S. Alexander 1862-63. Benjamin L. Sayer 1864-65. Franklin Gavitt 1866-67. John N. Collier 1868. Philip Crandon 1869-71. John B. Husted 1872-73. F. D. Goodrich 1874-76. James O. Thompson 1877-79. Silas Sprowl 1880-81. Francis D. Sargent 1882-83. Angelo Canoll 1884. Tames Mather 1885-86. tohn H. Allen 1887-89. "D. L. Brown 1890-91. J. H. Macdonald 1892-93. Charles Smith 1894. ^ Elijah Smith T 8Q5-97- Bennetts C. Miller REV. STEPHEN PUFFER. Three Times Pastor of this Church. 1818-22. E. T. Taylor and others 1823-29. Stephen Puffer ''Father" Henderson and others 1830. William Ramsdell 1831. Asa U. Swinerton 1832-36. Stephen Puffer 1838. J. Mudge 1839-46. Stephen Puffer 1846. Stephen Puffer PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Arthur Beale (Chairman), Warren Lothrop, H. A. Tib- bitts, Frankin Beal, Joseph Priest, William Lothrop. Stewards Warren Lothrop (R. S.), Mrs. L. O. Beal (D. S.), Ar- thur Beale, Mrs. James Lean, Mrs. Emma Lothrop, Mrs. F. M. Spring, Mrs. I. W. Beal, Mrs. Lucy Bakeman, Mrs. Adelia Beale. Sunday School Superintendent, Arthur Beale; Assistant Superin- tendent, Warren Lothrop; Secretary, Mrs. F. M. Spring; Treasurer, Miss Alice M. Clark; Librarian, Miss Gussie Nichols; Assistant Li- brarian, H. Davis; Organist, Mrs. D. O. Wade; Chorister, I. W. Beal. Teachers Arthur Beale, Mrs. F. M. Spring, Mrs. Lucy Bakeman, Warren Lothrop, the Pastor, Mrs. Miller. Epivorth League President, \Varren Lothrop; Secretary, Mrs. George E. Davis; Treasurer, H. A. Tibbitts. Junior League Superintendent, Pastor's wife; President, Edith Tibbitts. Ladies' Benevolent Society President, Mrs. G. E. Davis; Secretary, Mrs. Lucy Bakeman; Treasurer, Mrs. H. W. Clark. NEW EAST GREENWICH ACADEMY COTTAGE. FIRST M. E. CHURCH, NEWPORT, R. I. In 1790 Jesse Lee visited Rhode Island, and preached in Newport in the month of June. Newport was first included in what was called Greenwich Circuit, and afterwards in Warren Circuit, which was formed in 1794. In 1800 Joshua Hall was appointed to Rhode Island, preached in Newport, and organized the first society. Whether the small class then or- ganized became permanent can- not now be determined. In 1805 Reuben Hubbard, then stationed in Boston, visited Newport and preached in the First Baptist Church. After- wards the Senate Chamber of the State House was used, but this was soon found to be too small, and the Assembly Cham- ber was occupied by Mr. Hub- bard and his congregation. A church, the one still in use, was built in 1806, and dedicated in 1807. This was the first Methodist Church with a to\ver and bell in America, and per- haps in the world. The tower still remains unchanged. In those early years Daniel Webb did much to strengthen and enlarge the church. He had two pastorates, the second one running from 1814 to 1825. The Sunday School was organized in 1827, Samuel Norris, pastor. Hon. Dutee J. Pearce, well known in the annals of the state and nation, was chosen president, and Peter P. Remington, secretary. Among others prominent in the church in the first half century and a little more of its history were Jeremiah Hazard, John Allan, John C. Braman, William R. Pitman, J. C. Powell and Benjamin Mumford, the latter a man of great courage and progressive spirit. In 1829 James Porter became pastor, giving much promise of his future success as preacher and author. The church was favored with several revivals of religion in this period: the most powerful one was in the pastorate of Joel Knight, i 1842. He removed at the end of one year, and there were 306 THE FIRST CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 113 members, including probationers, the largest number that has ever been reported. In 1844 the annual conference was held in this church. Robert M. Hatfield, the pastor, was ordained at this conference. The conference also was held here in 1855 and 1890. THE FIRST CHURCH PARSONAGE. In 1856, Frederick Upham, pastor, there was organized a mission, which has since developed into the Thames Street Methodist Epis- copal Church. Some improvements were made in the church edifice, and a new organ was procured in the pastorate of M. J. Talbot, who REV. J. H. ALLEN. MRS. J. H. ALLEN. was appointed in 1857. Dr. Talbot afterward was elected the first Superintendent of Public Schools of this city. The congregations continued large and the church prosperous in the pastorate of Henry SOUl'ENIR HISTORY. S. White. He was afterward chaplain in the United States Army, and was a prisoner in Andersonville. Two thousand five hundred dollars were expended, chiefly on the vestry, while E. S. Stanley was pastor, 1869-71. The present parsonage was built at an expense of $6,500 in the pastorate of D. P. Leavitt, 1871-73. Mrs. Alexander Murray had left a legacy of $500 toward building the same. On December 15, 1881, the church caught fire and was badly damaged. This was in the pastorate of Angelo Canoll, whose elo- quent sermons made a marked impression upon the community at large. The church was thoroughly rebuilt, with numerous improve- FRED WEIR. Epworth League President. COL. J. W. HORTON. Sunday School Superintendent. ments, including seven memorial windows, and was reopened in July, 1882, D. A. Whedon, D. D., pastor, who had already served one term, 1866-67. Bishop Andrews preached the sermon at the reopening ser- vice. E. C Bass, D. D., after serving four years as pastor, was appointed Presiding Elder of Providence District in 1896. A debt of $7,000 was discharged, and $900 raised and applied to improvements during this pastorate, not one dollar being raised by any indirect method of church revenue. The parish corporation was also discontinued, every pew holder freely relinquishing his title. The act of incorporation of 1807 had been followed by anew act in 1871, by which two charters came into force, one of the church, the other of the parish. That of the parish was now dissolved, and all sittings in the church rented annually at one dollar each. During this pastorate one-eighth df the membership died, yet the records showed a net increase in numbers, SOUVENIR HISTORY. Hg including many young people. An Epworth League was organized in June, 1896, in the pastorate of J. H. Allen. One of the pastors of this church, Lucius D. Davis, after serving three years, 1863-65, became a layman, and purchased the "Newport Daily News," of which he has been the leading editorial writer for thirty years. He was lay delegate to the general conference of 1876. In 1882 he published a "History of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Newport, R. I." He is a contributor to botanical periodicals, and is regarded as an authority in arboriculture. He has been a member of the board of stewards since 1870. Mr. T. T. Pitman, one of the trustees of the church, has served on the Park Commission for the City of Newport, and for many years has been proprietor of the "Newport Daily News." T. T. PITMAN. L. D. DAVIS. J. W. Horton, president of the board of trustees, has been colonel of the Newport Artillery, has served on the school board, in the Legis- lature, for several years on the city government, has been Mayor of Newport, and for twenty-six years Sunday school superintendent. He was elected State Senator in November, 1897, to fill vacancy caused by death of Charles H. Burdick. 1805. Reuben Hubbard 1807. Samuel Merwin 1809. Daniel Webb 1811. Benj. F. Lambert PASTORS. 1814. 1825. 1827. 1829. Daniel Webb Enoch Mudge Samuel Norris James Porter j j 6 SOU I 'ENIR HIS TOR Y. 1830. Thomas W. Tucker 1858. John B. Rusted 1832. Asa Kent 1859-60. Henry S. White 1834. John Lord 1861-62. Charles H. Titus 1835. Lewis Janson 1863-65. Lucius D. Davis 1836. Thomas Ely 1866-67. Daniel A. Whedon 1837. Jonathan Cady 1868. George M. Hamlen 1838. Isaac Stoddard 1869-70. Edwin S. Stanley 1840-41. Franklin Gavitt 1871-73- Dudley P. Leavitt 1842. Joel Knight 1874-76. William F. Whitcher 1843-44. Robert Ai. Hatfield 1877-79. Edgar M. Smith 1845. Elisha B. Bradford 188081. Angelo Canoll 1846-47. Richard Livesey 1882. Daniel A. Whedon 1848-49. Bartholomew Otheman 1883-85. Joseph Hollingshead 1850-51. Asa U. Swinerton 1886. Thomas J. Everett 1852. John B. Husted 1887-89. Joshua A. L. Rich 1853-54. John Lovejoy 1890-91. Warren A. Luce 18=55-56. Frederick Upham .1892-95. Edward C. Bass 1857.^ Micah J. Talbot 1896. ' John H. Allen PRESENT OFFICIARY. Class Leaders W. H. Arnold, W. D. Hartley, Mary L. Thurston. Trustees]. W. Horton, E. O. Riggs, T. T. Pitman, C. H. Taber, Frederick Bradley, R. C. Bacheller, B. F. Thurston, G. F. Downing, J. A. Hovey. Stewards L. D. Davis, G. H. Lovejoy, B. F. Downing, P. H. Thurston, T. D. Champlin, B. F. Thurston (R. S.), E. D. Jones, James Hardy, J. T. Kaull, H. C. Bacheller, A. M. Bailey, Frederick Weir. Sunday School Superintendent, J. W. Horton; Assistant, W. D. Hartley; Secretary, W. S. Bates; Assistant, A. T. Bailey; Treasurer, Miss Elizabeth Lawton; Librarian, E. O. Riggs; Assistant, W. E. Stanhope; Organist, Miss Mary Popple; Chorister, W. H. Arnold. Teachers Rev. J. H. Allen, W. H. Arnold, R. C. Bacheller, A. M. Bailey, H. D. Hartley, Mrs. J. H. Allen, Mrs. W. H. Arnold, Mrs. Frederick Bradley, Mrs. Alfred Chase, Mrs. G. F. Downing, Mrs. James Groff, Mrs. Walter Hills, Mrs. G. H. Kelley, Mrs. M. T. Peck- ham, Mrs. Clarence Stanhope, Mrs. William Stanhope, Mrs. Elizabeth Wilbur, Miss Emily Bradley, Miss Lizzie Brver. Miss Amelia Frye, Miss Julia Holt, Miss Elizabeth Lawton, Miss Maud Law-ton, Miss F. O. Palmer, Miss Hannah Stoddard, Miss M. L. Thurston. Epworth League President, Frederick Weir; First Vice-Presi- dent, Miss Mary L. Thurston; Second Vice-President, Miss Jennie E. Hailey; Third Vice-President, Dr. Frederick Bradley; Fourth Vice- President, William S. Bates; Secretary, Miss Bessie S. Champlin; Treasurer, Henry Taber. FIRST M. E. CHURCH, MIDDLETOWX, R. I. The first Methodist class was organized by Frederick Upham in the spring of 1856, with Tru- man B. Congdon, leader. Soon afterward Rev. John F. Fogg was secured and meetings were held regularly. At the session of the Provi- dence Conference, convened April i, 1857, at Bristol, R. I., Rev. Charles A. Merrill was appoint- ed to Middletown as "preacher in charge." He arrived April I4th, and began at once a successful pastorate. Under his direction the First M. E. Church of Middletown was organized June 27, 1857. The membership consisted of THE MIDDLETOWN CHURCH. four members "in full," and twenty-five probationers. A gracious revival crowned the efforts of pastor and people. Much credit is due to Truman B. Congdon and Isaac Smith for REV. R. S. MOORE. MRS. K. S. M< their earnest and persistent efforts in establishing Methodist meetings in the town. Ilg SOUVENIR HISTORY. The church edifice, which has been enlarged and remodelled, was originally owned and occupied by a society calling themselves Chris- tian Baptists, a company of believers who withdrew from the "Old Swamp Meeting-house." For four years, however, previous to the organization of the class, the house had been closed. The Epworth League was organized September 16, 1889. A society known as the "Young People's Christian League" had existed for a year previously. MISS IDA M. BROWN. Sunday School Superintendent. PASTORS. 1857-58- 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-64. 1865. 1866-68. 1869-70. 1871. 1872-73. 187,1-76. 1877-79. 1 880-8 1. 1882-83. 1884-85. 1886-87. 1888-91. 1 892-94. 1895-96. Charles A. Merrill W. V. Morrison W. Turkington A. A. Wright Carlos Banning W. Livesey Franklin Gavitt N. W. Chase Charles Hammond Merrick Ransom E. L. Hyde J. O. Thompson James Mather W. A. Wright John W. Willett J. Francis Cooper W. H. Allen F. L. Brooks R. S. Moore PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Abram A. Brown, George A. Brown, Ashton 1. Barker, C. Henry Congdon, Arthur W. Chase, Charles Peckham, Millard F. Smith, William Smith, Charles H. Ward. Stewards Abram A. Brown, Alden P. Barker, James H. Barker, Lyman H. Barker. Lydia B. Chase, Charles Peckham, Christopher S. Peckham, Ellen E. Smith, Millard F. Smith, William T. Slocum, A. Herbert Ward, Charles H. Ward, John B. Ward. Sunday School Superintendent. Ida M. Brown; Assistant Super- intendent, William T. Slocum ; Superintendent of Primary Department, Ellen C. Smith: Secretary, Lionel Peabody, Jr.; Assistant Secretary, Adeline M. Barker; Treasurer, Millard F. Smith; Librarian, Hattie E. Brown; Organist. Sadie F. Peckham; Chorister, John Peckham. Teachers Mrs. Alden Barker. Mrs. Scott Barker, Miss Louise Barker, Miss Ida B. Brown, Mrs. George Carter, Mrs. Susan Cogge- SOUVENIR HISTORY 119 shall, Charles Peckham, Lizzie Peckham, Sadie C. Peckham, Mrs. Isaac Peabody, Annie P. Smith, Mrs. Phoebe Smith, John B. Ward. Epworth League Mrs. Ida M. Brown, President; Mrs. Isaac Peabody, First Vice-President; Hattie Brown, Second Vice-President; Sadie E. Peckham, Third Vice-President; Lizzie Smith, Fourth Vice- President; William J. Peckham, Secretary; William L. Brown, Treas- urer. THAMES STREET M. E. CHURCH, NEWPORT, R. I. It was about the year 1840 that members of the Marlboro Street Church began to hold meetings in the south part of the city at private houses, but mostly at the residence of Mrs. Fidelia Slocum. For nearly twelve years class and prayer meetings were held. In 1854, while John Love joy was pastor of the Marlboro Street Church, the official board secured an old schoolhouse on Melburn court, and in August Mr. Love joy began regular ser- vices therein. The place of worship was soon changed to a vacant store on Sisson's wharf. In 1855 O. N. Brooks was sent by the con- ference to labor in South Newport. No church organization had been effected, and Mr. Brooks found himself without any church or means of support. But through an arrangement made with Bishop Janes by Rev. Frederick Upham, D. D., at that time pastor of the Marlboro Street Church, Mr. Brooks became Dr. Up ham's assistant. The next important step was to procure a stated and more con- venient place of worship, and after considerable difficulty, the site on the corner of Thames and Brewer streets was purchased at a cost of $3,000. The old dwelling-house standing on this lot was fatted up at an expense of between $500 and $600, for temporary use. On the I9th of April, 1856, twenty-seven persons took letters from the Marlboro Street Church and were organized into a society. The first quarterly Conference was held June 7, 1856. The following persons were pres- ent : Charles H. Titus, Presiding Elder; O. N. Brooks, pastor. Stewards Clark Burdick, I. W. Sherman, Benjamin S. Seatle, W. D. Morehead, E. S. Hildreth, Daniel Jackson, George N. Lawton. Class Leaders Nathan G. Kenyon, Ira S. Eldredge, William J. Holt. THE THAMES ST. CHURCH. I2O SOU I 'EN I R HISTORY. The Sunday school, in charge of E. S. Hilclreth, reported sixteen officers and teachers and seventy-five scholars. The second pastor was E. A. Lyon, who came in 1858. He found the young society weak, but brave and hopeful. This pastorate was blessed with a good revival of religion, in which nearly one hundred were con- verted. Mr. Lyon was succeeded by W. H. Richards, whose ministry in Newport was successful. He gathered and held a fine congrega- tion. During the pastor- ate of Mr. Richards, the subject of a new house of worship was agitated, but the burning of three fac- tories in the south part of the town about that time caused the postponement of the whole matter. Next came William Livesey, a man of tireless energy and indomitable purpose. He wrought well for the church. On the retirement of Mr. Livesey, E. A. Lyon was returned to the THE THAMES ST. PARSONAGE. REV. G. E. BRIGHTMAN. MRS. G. E. BRIGHTMAN. charge. During the second pastorate of Mr. Lyon the church build- ing was erected, and it was dedicated by Bishop Janes December 21, SOUVENIR HISTORY 121 1865. From time to time the edifice has been improved, until now it is one of the most convenient buildings for church purposes in the con- ference. Frederick Upham, D. D., was appointed to the charge in 1866. The church prospered under his leadership. He was largely instru- T. FRED KAULL. Sunday School Superintendent. mental in founding the church, during his former pastorate in the city, and knew it well. Asa N. Bodfish was the next pastor. He re- mained two years and did good work. He was followed by B. A. Chase, whose early death was mourned by his many friends. In 1873 E. F. Jones was appointed to the charge. During his ministry the present beautiful chapel was erected, the congregations increased, the Sunday school grew and a large number of persons united with the church. Mr. ^J ones left the society in a more hopeful condition than at any time during its previous history. S. Leader came in 1875. His pastorate was marked by the acqui- sition of a parsonage, the gift of Mrs. Susan Magna, a member of 122 SOUVENIR HISTORY the Congregational Church. Mr. Leader was succeeded by William T. Harlow in 1877. This pastorate was an active and most successful one. In 1879 O- H. Fernald became the pastor, and the church enjoyed prosperity. S. J. Carroll was appointed to the charge in 1879. Dur- ing his ministry the church reached its highest success, up to that time. Many conversions were reported, the church building was improved, an excellent organ was purchased, and nearly three thousand dollars were expended in improvements. The Sunday school, under the su- perintendency of A. C. Titus, was large and flourishing. Edgar F. Black was the next minister. His name and work are held in loving remembrance. His great heart and fine intellectual powers made him a potent influence in the city. F. D. Blakeslee, D. D., came to the charge in 1886, and remained but one year, being recalled to the presidency of the East Greenwich Academy. It was, however, one of the best years in the history of the church. His term of service was characterized by a precious revival interest, and many persons were led to Christ. All departments were prosperous. O. W. Scott followed Dr. Blakeslee and enjoyed a good year, but was obliged to move on account of his wife's health. W. I. Ward came in 1888, and, as he is always doing, did faithful work for the church. In 1890 G. W. Hunt began his labors with the church. Mr. Hunt was an indefatigable worker. The church property was greatly improved, at an expense of $4,500, every dollar of which was paid at the time. In 1892 H. B. Cady began his work, and for three years led this flock of God. His administration was wise and its influence still abides. In 1895 J. H. McDonald was appointed to the charge. His earnest and able preaching made a deep impression upon his congre- gation, and his many friends regretted his removal from the city. Of the first stewards of this church, Isaac W. Sherman still lives a useful and honored member. Although in his eighty-eighth year, he is constant in his attendance upon the church services. Methodism in Newport is greatly indebted to Mr. Sherman. He was converted in the revival which swept the city during Joel Knight's ministry in 1843- Seth Swinburne has been identified with the church from the first, and has had various official positions, being at the present time Secre- tary of the Board of Trustees. E. S. Hildreth, the first Superintendent of the Sunday school, still lives and attends the preaching services, in spite of deafness, which makes it impossible for him to hear a single word. T. Fred Kaull is the present efficient Superintendent of the Sunday school. SOUVENIR HISTORY 123 MISS PHOEBE TEW. Kpworth League President. PASTORS. 1855-56. 1857-58- 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-65. 1866-67. 1868-69. 1870-71. 1872-73. I874-75- 1876-77. 1878-79. 1880-82. 1883-85. 1886. 1887. 1888-89. 1890-91. 1892-94. 1895-96. 1897. Ormando N. Brooks Edward A. Lyon William H. Richards William Livesey Edward A. Lyon Frederick Upham Asa N. Bodfish Benjamin A. Chase Edwin F. Jones Shadrach Leader William T. Harlow Oliver H. Fernald Samuel J. Canoll Edgar F. Clark Francis D. Blakeslee^ Orange W. Scott William I. Ward George W. Hunt Hopkins B. Cady James H. McDonald George E. Brightman PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees F. B. Garnett, Augustin C. Titus, Edward W. Young, Seth Swinburne, T. Fred Kaull, Charles D. Martin, Robert S. Bur- lingame, Maurice Albro. Stewards Edward W. Young, Charles H. Seatle, Joshua B. Bacheller, John B. Mason, Charles S. Sherman, Charles S. Goddard, George' N. Tozier, Thomas S. Bowler, James G. Albro, James T. Harden, Samuel T. H. Ailman, Robert S. Burlingame. Sunday School Superintendent, T. Fred Kaull; Assistant Super- intendent, James Albro; Secretaries, Dudley P. Bacheller, Joseph P. Garnett; Librarians, W. Murley Mills, James Marden; Organist, Phoebe A. Tew. Teachers Mrs. Isaac J. Barker, Mrs. Charles F. Paddock, Mrs. Charles S. Goddard, Mrs. T. Fred Kaull, Mrs. Charles D. Martin, Mrs. Thomas G. Owen, Mrs. James F. Marden, Mrs. George E. Brightman, Mrs. James G. Albro, Mrs. Seth Swinburne, Mrs. R. S. Burlingame, Mrs. G. W. Tozier, Mrs. Harry C. Kaull, Mrs. Aug. C Titus, Mrs. William Frank, Miss Annie T. Gilpin, Miss Lizzie Kaull, Miss May A. Anthony, Miss Phoebe Tew, Miss Lillie Tew, Miss Minnie Goddard, Mrs. H. C. Kincaid, F. B. Garnett, Seth Swinburne, Isaac W. Sherman, Charles D. Martin, Charles F. Paddock, James F. Mar- den. Epworth League President, Miss Phoebe A. Tew; First Vice- President, Charles D. Martin; Second Vice-President, Mrs. Charles S. Goddard; Third Vice-President, Mrs. H. C. Kincaid; Fourth Vice- President, W. M. Mills; Secretary, Miss Clara Peckham; Treasurer, Mrs. Charles D. Martin. SWEDISH M. E. CHURCH, NEWPORT, R. I. THE SWEDISH CHURCH. Rev. N. Eklund, pastor in Providence, R. I., preached in Newport in private house 3 Division street, September 23, 1884, and soon after the Young- Men's Christian Association Hall was rented, where Mr. Eklund and others continued preaching every week for about one year and a half. In the spring of 1886 Rev. H. Hanson was stationed in Newport, being the first pastor of this church. The church was or- ganized July 24, 1886, when the first quar- terly conference was held by Rev. D. A. Jordan, Presiding Elder. Mr. Hanson was the preacher in charge up to the Confer- ence, 1888. During his time the church, too, received Mrs. Mary A. King, and the church building was commenced. After Mr. Hanson came Rev. Axel Z. Fryxell, in the spring of 1888, and the church building was completed and dedi- cated the following year by Bishop Hurst, when $1,200 in all was paid on the building. Mr. Fryxell continued one year, nearly to the spring 1 , 1889. After him came Rev. C. A. Cederberg, and continued his service here nearly one year and a half, to the fall, 1890. He raised $557 for the church debt. After Mr. Cederberg came Mr. Forsgren, a local preacher, who supplied for six or seven months, up to the Conference, 1891, when Rev. H. Olson came and was the pastor up to the Conference, 1893. When Mr. Olson came there was a debt on the church property of $2,200, and no Sunday School; but that good man raised money and paid the whole debt, organized a good Sunday School, and the mem- bership more than doubled. In 1893, at the Conference, Rev. Charles Paulson carne here and did a good work, up to the Conference in Fall River, 1896, when Rev. Konrad R. Hartwig came here, transferred from New England Conference. The church is located at Annandale Road, a beautiful place in the summer time. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Charles Nordstrom, Chairman; Aran Anderson, Treas- urer; Carl Lind, Secretary; Gust Westerdahl, Aug Erikson. SOUVENIR HISTORY 125 Stewards Charles Nordstrom (R. S.), Aran Anderson (D. S.), Gust Westerdahl. Class Leaders Charles Nordstrom, Gust Westerdahl. Epworth League President, Mrs. Jennie Hartwig; First Vice- President, Mrs. Hanborg; Second Vice-President, Miss Alma Fohlin; Third Vice-President, Rev. K. R. Hartwig; Secretary, Miss Esther Anderson. Sunday School Superintendent, Charles Nordstrom. Teachers Rev. K. R. Hartwig, Carl Lind, Charles Nordstrom, Miss Esther Anderson; Treasurer, Mrs. Heliva Erikson; Secretary, Miss Heldur Nordstrom. CENTRAL M. E. CHURCH, NORTH EASTON, MASS. About 1785 Jesse Lee is supposed to have preached the first Methodist sermon in North Easton Village, very near the site on which the church now stands. From this first sermon Methodism grew into a settled religious movement in 1792, when Jesse Lee again visited Easton, of which visit he says: "I rode to Brother Stokes', in Easton, and met the class at five o'clock." He makes men- tion of two other visits, in 1793 and 1795. In 1795 the church was organized, a lot of land was purchased, and a church NORTH EASTON CHURCH. edifice built on the corner of Washington and Elm' streets. Bishop Asbury was present at its dedication. From 1795 to 1845, a period of fifty years, the church was favored with preaching and pastoral supervision by many noble men of God From 1845 to 1856 the Washington Street Church had no con- nection with the Conference, and "there was a steady decline of in- terest" throughout this period of eleven years. During this time the church was served by Revs. James Hall, John B. Clough, 1850; Lo- renzo White, 1851; Paul Townsend. In 1857 the church renewed its connection with the Conference, and Rev. John B. Hunt was ap- pointed to the charge, and a blessed and extensive revival of religion 126 SOUVENIR HISTORY, was enjoyed, which has not been equalled in this town up to this date (1897). In 1859 Lewis B. Bates was appointed to the Washington Street Church, and during the year efforts were made to establish a church in North Easton Village, which were successful in 1860, when the bishop re-appointed Mr. Bates to Washington Street Church, but in a few weeks after Conference removed him to the Village church. After Mr. Bates left the Washington Street Church, he was succeeded by the Rev. Mr. Spilsted. He was followed in 1861 by Franklin REV. H. D. ROBINSON. MRS. H. D. ROBINSON. Gavitt; 1862, Abel Alton; 1863, H. S. Smith; 1866, Freeman Ryder; 1868, J. B. Washburn; 1870, Elisha Dunham; 1873, M. M. Kugler; 1875, S. Hamilton Day; 1877, J- H . Nelson; 1878, M. F. Colburn. It is impossible in this brief history to give even a meagre description of the excellent work done by these men. In 1861 the Rev. W. V. Morrison was appointed to the Village church, which was yet unorganized. He proceeded at once, and with great care, to organize a new church, and at the Quarterly Conference held in North Easton, August 31, 1861, he made the following report: "I have completed the work of organizing the church on the plan pro- posed by the bishop." For a few years after the organization, services were held in Ripley's Hall. In 1864 a church was built on Main street, in which worship was conducted for twelve years. In 1876 Mr. Oliver Ames made a generous present of the church vacated by the Unitarian Society to the Methodist Episcopal Church, on condition that they would move it and put it in good order without incurring a debt. SOUVENIR HISTORY 127 The condition was promptly and thankfully complied with, and the church was moved to where it now stands on Mechanic street, and was dedicated December 28, 1876, the sermon being' preached by the Rev. Lewis B. Bates, D. D. The church is known by the name of "Central Methodist Episcopal Church," with which the old church has united, and mother and daughter are living happily together. J. E. SHEPHARDSON. Sunday School Superintendent. MISS JENNIE E. SHEPHARDSON. Epworth League President. PASTORS. 1800. Joseph Snelling 1835. Solomon Langdon 1836. 1806. Nehemiah Coy 1 &39- 1807. Thomas Perry 1840. 1808. Samuel Cutler 1841. 1809. John Tinkham 1842. 1811. Artemas Stebbins 1843. 1812. Theophilus Smith 1844. 1813. Francis Dane 1845. J. F. Chamberlain 1825. Charles Virgin 1861. Hiram Walden 1862. 1826. Phineas Peck 1863. 1827. Ebenezer Blake 1864. 1828. Elias Scott 1865-66. 1829. Lewis Bates 1867-68. 1831. John Lovejoy 1869. D. S. King 1870. 1832. Lemuel Harlow 1871. 1833. Warren Emerson 1872. Thomas Stetson Amos Binney John Bailey Nathan Payne Edward Lyons Joel Steele William Holmes Franklin Fisk Nathaniel Bemis Mr. Worcester W. V. Morrison Charles Hammond C. C. Adams F. A. Loomis Edward Edson J. B. Husted George H. Bates J H. Humphrey Charles W. Dreese Joseph Hammond I2 g SOLTEN1R HISTORY. J onn Faville 1884-86. Merrick Ransom 1874. John Jones 1887-88. Lewis Bates Codding 1875. W. J. Hodges 1889-90. Frederick C. Baker J. S. Daviis 1891-93. Charles N. Hinckley S. E. Evans 1894-96. Robert S. Moore 1880. William Kirkby 1897. Henry D. Robinson 1882. J. S. Thomas PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stewards S. S. Ryder, George H. Wells, J. W. Dickerman, H. H. Holt, W. E. Whitten, Fred A. Conant, J. E. Shepardson, Alexander Earle, Miss Lizzie Randall, Mrs. Louise Thayer, Mrs. Minnie E. Fitton, D. B. Tinkham. Trustees]. W. Dickerman, E. W. Randall, D. B. Tinkham, J. E. Shepardson, H. B. Waite, S. S. Ryder, George H. Wells, George H. De Witt, H. H. Holt. Sunday School J. E. Shepardson, Superintendent; George H. Wells, Assistant Superintendent; Miss Ella M. Packard, Secretary; Miss Lettie Lincoln, Treasurer; Miss Mira E. Randall, Librarian; Miss Jennie E. Shepardson, Organist. Teachers J. W. Dickerman, Alexander Earle, Miss Lizzie Ran- dall, Mrs. Minnie E. Fitton, Mrs. Myra C. Ryder, George H. Wells, Mrs. Louise H. Thayer, William A. Hall, Miss Jennie E. Shepardson, Miss M. W. Lillie, H. D. Robinson. Epworth League President, Miss Jennie E. Shepardson; First Vice-President, S. S. Ryder; Second Vice-President, Mrs. Louise H. Thayer; Third Vice-President, Miss Ella M. Packard; Fourth Vice- President, Mrs. Myra C. Ryder; Secretary, George H. Wells; Treas- urer, Fred A. Conant. FIRST M. E. CHURCH, PAWTUCKET, R. I. Methodism took form in this place when a class was organized in 1822. Occasional preaching in the "old red schoolhouse" and in private houses had prepared the way, and five years later the charge received its first preacher, the Rev. O. Robbins. The first meeting-house was built during the ministry of Israel Washburn, a local preacher whose name should be held in lasting honor. THE FIRST CHURCH. Robert M. Hatfield was licensed to preach by the Quarterly Con- ference of this church, and was appointed its pastor at the ensuing Annual Conference of 1841. A new church was a necessity under such a pastorate, and on August 10, 1842, the new church, standing on the original site, was dedicated to God. This organization is rightly named the Mother Church, for three vigorous societies owe their origin to her zeal and enterprise. Under the pastorate of Rev. D. H. Ela, meetings were held in East Attleboro, and the work was greatly furthered by the zeal of a young 130 HISTORY preacher, the Rev. I. J. Lansing. Conversions were many, a strong society was formed, and the present Attleboro church is a result of that enterprise. Under the same pastorate, meeting's were held in Central Falls. This was in 1865. A school was soon formed, and three years later a class was organized, a quarterly conference insti- tuted, and, with a goodly number of the members of the mother society taking their letters to the new enterprise, the Embury Church became an assured success. THE FIRST CHURCH PARSONAGE. In the spring of 1869 the pastor, the Rev. E, D. Hall, began preaching in the Fairmount engine house, and a class was formed and soon a Sunday school. In 1870 the enterprise had proved so vig- orous that an edifice was built, and thus again the mother church sent out a strong contingent to form what was to be known as the Thomp- son Church. That a whole generation should pass without any new societies formed by the church may not be surprising if we consider that the work already begun needed to be established, and much of the increase in population has been of those who adhere to another religion. The Sunday school of this church was organized in 1830. Since 1856 but two superintendents have served. In 1870 the present and popular superintendent, Alonzo J. Nickerson, was elected, and has continued for twenty-seven years in the office. The old church building proving inadequate for the society, the SOUVENIR HISTORY present commodious structure on the historic site was erected and dedicated in the closing- days of the five years' pastorate of the Rev. P. M. Vinton. A. J. NICKERSON. Sunday School Superintendent. 1827. 1828. 1829. I8 3 0. I8 3 I. I8 3 2. 1833. I8 34 . 1835. 1837. Onesiphorus Robbins Israel Washburn James Porter Israel Washburn David Culver Francis Dane Benjamin Payne Hiram Cummings William P. White S. W. Coggshall William Simmons PASTORS. 1838. 1839. 1840. 1841-42. 1843. 1844-45. 1846-48. 1849. 1850-51. 1852-53- 1854. 1855-56. 1857- 1858-59. 1860. 1861. 1862-63. 1864-65. 1866-67. 1868. 1869-70. 1871-72. I873-75- 1876-77. 1878-80. 1881-83. 1884-85. 1886-89. 1890-94. 1895. Reuben Bowen Samuel Beadle William H. Richards W. H. Woodbury R. M. Hatfield Franklin Gavitt Jonathan Cady Isaac Bonney Henry Baylies John E. Gifford William Cone Henry H. Smith James Dean James Mather John Lovejoy Samuel F. Upham Sidney Dean Andrew McKeown John D. King David H. Ela James D. Butler M. J. Talbot E. D. Hall Samuel L. Gracey J. W. Willett E. F. Jones H. B. Cady G. S. Morse G. W. Anderson A. W. Kingsley P. M. Vinton C. W. Holden PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees A. J. Nickerson, C. C. Burnham, T. C. Fuller, James Wilson, M. F. Whipple, C. F. Burnham, O. F. Currier, Reuben War- burton, E. M. Arnold. Stewards T. C Fuller (R. S.), George E. Polsey, J. F. Bowers, Arthur Overton, J. L. Perrin, J. W. Ramsbottom, Reuben Warburton, Mrs. O. F. Currier, Mark Eastwood, George Boadbent, J. L. Ingra- ham, Charles H. Burt. Sunday School Superintendent, A. J. Nickerson; Assistant Su- perintendent, W. H. Worrell; Secretary, J. L. Ingraham; Treasurer, Herbert Horton; Assistant Librarian, Arthur Fitton; Periodicals, B. O. Currier. 132 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Epworth League President, Miss Emily Wilson; Vice-Presidents, Mrs. J. L. Ingraham, Mr. J. L. Ingraham, Miss Maud Watson; Secre- tary,' Richard Fitton ; Treasurer, Miss Maria Fitton. Junior League Superintendent, Mrs. J. L. Ingraham; President, Thomas W. Winstanley; Vice-Presidents, Leon Warburton, Adella Minor, Holley T. Hatch; Secretary, Bertha Hawkhead; Treasurer, Florence M. Northup. THOMPSON M. E. CHURCH, PAWTUCKET, R. I. By a Friend of the Church. As Pawtucket began to grow out of her village life into a city, the First Methodist Church anticipated the drift of population and in 1870 planted a mission in a then open section of the city. The origin of Thompson Church is thus referred to in the Presiding Elder's REV. W. L.ENOIR HOOD. A. A. THOMPSON. Sunday School Superintendent. report of 1870: "The church at Pawtucket (First Church), true to its old aggressive instincts, has during the last year organized a mission Sunday school at Fairmount, which has already outgrown its ac- commodations; and a large, eligibly located lot has been purchased for the erection of a chapel." Accordingly, Rev. Edwin D. Hall was SOUl/ENIR HISTORY. I3 ~ sent to cultivate this new field, and he labored not in vain, and the Presiding Elder's report for 1871 contains the following: "Two church edifices have been erected the past year, one of which that at Paw- tucket is a chapel, which must soon be replaced by a church." "The Pawtucket (First) Church has contributed some $1,600 towards the new chapel in that village." Again in his report in 1872 he says: "Thompson Church edifice, at Pawtucket, has been erected, and its lecture room prepared for occupancy, by the earnest and generous exertions of friends in that place." John C. Cowan was next pastor, 1873-74. He found the church burdened with debt. He began to raise the amount and succeeded, for in the Elder's report for 1874 we read: "Several churches have been relieved from the incubus oi debt. * * Thompson (Paw- tucket), $3,000." Robert Clark was the third pastor. The debt having been re- moved, the spiritual interests prospered. Again the Elder's report for 1875 says: "In some places revivals have been attended with unusual power. Particular mention may be made of Mystic, East Greenwich, Attleboro, Bristol, Thompson Church, Pawtucket," etc. During Charles S. Morse's pastorate continued prosperity at- tended the church. The Elder's report for 1877 says: "The people of Thompson Church, Pawtucket, are finishing their house of wor- ship, which will require an outlay of more than $4,000." His report for 1878 says: "The people at Thompson charge, Pawtucket, have completed and dedicated their house of worship." Rev. S. T. Patterson (1879-80) found the young, ambitious so- ciety struggling with a great debt, but by his faithful work the church grappled heroically with its burden. The Elder's 1880 report speaks out plainly thus: "Debts remain on some of the church properties to such an amount as to embarrass the operations in every department of church work. * * * Efforts have been made, with success, to remove these hindrances, in several instances, the past year. * Thompson Church, Pawtucket, which was apparently at the point of fatal disaster a year ago, has been so far relieved, through the per- severing efforts of Brother S. T. Patterson, the pastor, that ordinary prudence will prevent the recurrence of such peril." For several years the church struggled with its load of debt, till some hearts began to despair. Accordingly in 1881 and 1882, dis- aster was so near that First Church once more took the child under her care, and one pastor served both churches. Thus the Elder's report in 1882 tells the "whole truth" thus: I34 SOUVENIR HISTORY. "The interest of the mortgage on Thompson Church, Pawtucket, having fallen in arrears, it was threatened, in the autumn, with fore- closure and sale, and, owing to lack of financial ability in the society, the trustees of the First Church generously came to its relief, and agreed to be responsible for the debt, on condition that the Thomp- son Church would surrender its separate existence and become a part of the First Church charge, which proposition was gladly accepted. Rev. W. H. Stetson resigned the pastorate of Thompson and Rev. G. A. Morse has since had the pastoral care of the united church, holding separate services, and attending to the double work with a promising prospect that Thompson Church will emerge from its em- barrassments in due time and become strong and successful." In 1883 to 1885 John Thompson served the church as pastor. A new era of prosperity dawned. The Elder's 1886 report reads: "Reno- vation and repairs * * Thompson church, Pawtucket, $375." The next pastorate deserving of special mention was that of Rev. J. H. Newland, 1890-92. This was marked by a liberal revival and great temporal prosperity. The Elder's report for 1891 contains the following: "Brother New- land of Thompson church, Pawtucket, was electrified recently by the proposition of Mr. George D. Fowler, a Congregationalist, to give $2,000 towards the indebtedness of his church, provided the remainder, about $500, should be raised before conference. He flew to the can- vass and in a few days the entire debt was cancelled and several hun- dred dollars more w r ere raised for needed repairs." The same source in 1892 says: "Thompson church, Pawtucket, has thoroughly renovated its house of worship at a cost of $750." Rev. S. M. Beale's pastorate (1894-96) was marked by steady progress and a deepening of the spiritual life of the church. In 1897 the present minister, Rev. W. L. Hood, became pastor, and with his characteristic energy has added much to the attractiveness of the vestry by giving it a thorough renovation. He is also urging a change of name from Thompson to "Mineral Spring Avenue church," and additional improvements. The church is located in a rapidly growing part of the city and is destined to become one of the strong churches of the city in future years. Underneath the auditorium is a large vestry with Epworth League room, class room and culinary department. The church is easily reached by electrics. PASTORS. 1871-72. Edwin D. Hall 1873-74. John C. Gowan SOUVENIR HISTORY 1875-76- 1877-78. 1879-80. 1881. 1882. 1883-85. Robert Clark C. S. Morse S. T. Patterson W. H. Stetson George A. Morse John Thompson 1886-87. 1888-89. 1890-92. 1893. 1894-96. 1897. A. Anderson J. W. Willett J. H. Newland H. D. Robinson S. M. Beale W. Lenoir Hood PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees A. A. Thompson, P. W. Chase, H. C. Rice, J. G. Davis, C. C. Gloyd, J. Baine, E, S. Adams. Stewards C. C. Gloyd (R. S.), A. A. Thompson, T. J. Gaddis, E. Griffiths, D. McMeekin, H. C. Rice, Frank Greene, Mary Hutton, Mrs. E. Griffiths, Philip Chase, S. C. Wilson, Harrison Davis. Sunday School Superintendent, A, A. Thompson; Assistant Su- perintendent, David McMeekin; Secretary, George H. Brown; Treas- urer, Henry C. Rice; Librarian, Edgar M. Beale; Periodical Agent, Alfred Hutton. Teachers W. Lenoir Hood, T. J. Gaddis, Mrs. Smith, E. N. Griffiths, D. McMeekin, Miss M. C. "Hood, Miss McMeekin, Fred Smith, Mrs. A. A. Thompson, Mrs. John Burton, Miss I. A. Barney, Charles Gloyd, Miss Sarah Beaumont, Mrs. Steere, Mrs. Wilson, Miss E. P. Whitford, Mr. Frank Greene, Mr. C. Rundlett, Miss M. Whip- pie, Mrs. Hutton, Mr. Harrison Davis, Mr. Fred Capron, Miss Nellie Greene. Epworth League President, David McMeekin; First Vice-Presi- dent, Mrs. I. A. Barney; Second Vice-President, Mrs. Herbert Wood; Third Vice-Presideent, Miss Nina Corey; Fourth Vice-President, Miss Minnie C. Hood; Secretary, Mrs. Nellie Green; Treasurer, Mr. George Brown; Pianist. Miss Clara Sherman; Librarian, Mr. Fred Capron. DAVID McMEEKIN. Epworth Irf'iig'ue PreHideirt. M. E. CHURCH, PHENIX, R. I. By John M. Nye. In the early days of the efforts of the Methodists in home mis- sionary work, the homes of those who admired the heroic efforts of its early preachers became the centres of interest in Methodism. Such a centre was the home of General Christopher Lippit, in the town of Cranston, about three miles from the village bearing- his name (Lippit), where he carried on the business of cotton manufacturing after his return from the Revolution- ary war. While in the war he had his attention called to the Methodist preachers and their success, by a brother living in New York, and after his return home he made his residence the headquarters of those preachers who chanced to be going to or returning from the conference held at Lynn. THE PHENIX CHURCH, His gen i a i hospitality was spoken of by Bishop Asbury as of one who kept an open house for Methodists, and whose home was a resting-place for preachers. Among the early preachers who held services here were F. G. Gar- retson, Daniel Smith, Jesse Lee, Black Harry and Fran- cis Asbury. From 1791 this place became one of the best known homes of the itinerancy and a centre of Methodist influence for many years. In 1794 a class was formed. Among the names on the list occur those of the Lippits and one Lucy Brayton. In 1800 General Lippit built a meeting-house for the Methodists near his residence, which was abandoned about twenty-five years after, owing to the inability to raise a debt of $72 to pay a mortgage. Here exhorters and local preachers were licensed to extend the work. On two special occasions a number of ordinations occurred of those who were to occupy circuits. The stand used as a pulpit at these services is now at the parsonage, having been presented by Mary Lippit Cong- don, daughter of General Lippit, to the Warwick Methodist Episcopal Church. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 137 An old resident thus describes General Lippit: "On those Sun- days when no one could be secured to hold the services, the General would conduct them himself. On entering the desk he would carefully remove his boots, as he believed one must be unshod in standing in the presence of his God. With his long, white hair braided and neatly tied, and the long, white beard carefully arranged, he presented such an aspect of veneration when he read Wesley's sermons, that some of the congregation were impressed with awe at his prophetic appear- ance." In 1813, Bishop Asbury, riding through the villages of Phenix and Lippit, remarked : "What a population, and what a good place to preach Christ!" REV. C. HARLEY SMITH. MRS. LANTA WILSON SMITH, Author of "Scatter Sunshine." and other hymns. Soon preaching services were held at the home of David Whee- lock, resulting in such interest that Lippit became a centre of Metho- dism. For more than ten years preaching service was held once a month at different houses, until 1824, when a class was formed by Rev. C. P. Avery. In 1830 the first Quarterly Conference was held at Lippit, and the estimate for Phenix and Lippit was thirty dollars. In 1831, a Sunday school was organized, which met first at houses, then at the schoolhouse. From this time various preachers were appointed to the Warwick Circuit until 1839, when the first Quarterly Conference was held in Phenix, with M. Haywood preacher in charge. From a record of an estimate made in Quarterly Conference Sep- tember 18, 1841, we find the following: Pastor, $100; pastor's wife, 138 SOUVENIR HISTORY $ico: table expenses of wife, $50; of pastor, $15 (the pastor must have been hospitably entertained by parishioners most of the time); rent, $28; fuel, $15; traveling expenses, $7.37. The pastor, J. C. Goodrich, objected. The Presiding Elder, B. Otheman, remarked: "I have never heard of the table of the pastor and wife being estimated separately before." Report accepted. At the organization of the Board of Trustees in 1842, the follow- ing were elected officers: Daniel Greene, President; Elisha Harris, Secretary; Nathaniel Arnold, Treasurer. Measures were proposed to buy the Tatem meeting-house, which was done in 1842. SILAS T. NYE. Epworth League President. JOHN M. NYE. Sunday School Superintendent. Through the interest of Elisha Harris, the church prospered financially, and when in 1857 it was proposed to build the present edi- fice, he became the prime mover in the enterprise. The building 1 was completed and dedicated in 1859, an d upon his death he endowed the church with a fund of four thousand dollars, which was increased by a bequest of one thousand dollars from R. G. Atwood. In the years which followed, the interest in Methodism continued to grow. At various intervals revivals followed. In the period from 1870 to 1880 the church reached its highest prosperity. But the population of the village is changing. The American inhabitants are moving to cities, while their places are filled by a foreign element of a different church belief. This affects the Methodist SOUVENIR HISTORY 139 church unfavorably. Revivals of marked interest have occurred in i8?8, 1835, 1840, 1842, 1844, 1847, J 853, 1859, 1867, 1881 and 1892. In 1859, when the present church was completed, a new organ was presented to the society by Mr. Henry Howard. It was while blow- ing this organ that a small boy conceived a love of and desire for a knowledge of music, which afterwards developed him into the late Dr. Eben Tourgee, of world-wide fame in musical circles, founder of the Conservatory of Music, Boston. During the summer of 1897 the church was remodelled, the cost of the improvement being $850. An addition was built, enlarging the platform of the vestry and making room for the removal of the organ in the main auditorium to the pulpit end of the room. The platform was enlarged so as to afford a circular gallery between the organ and pulpit, where twenty singers may be accommodated. The space where the organ originally stood is converted into a commodious and improved entrance. 1839-40. 1841. 1842. 1843- 1845- 1846-47. 1848. 1849. 1850. 1851. 1852. 1853-54. 1855-56. 1857-58- 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-65. PASTORS. M. Hay good 1866. John C. Goodridge 1867-69. Franklin Gavitt 1870-71. Lemuel Harlow 1872-73. Joseph McReading 1874. Henry M. Bridge 1875. Micah J. Talbot 1876. George W. Brewster 1877-78. Warren Emerson 1879-80. Isaac Bonney 1881-83. E. H. Hatfield 1884-85. Elijah T. Fletcher 1886. Philip Crandon 1887-89. Horace C. Atwater 1800. Charles Nason 1891-93. William H. Richards 1894-95. Carlos Banning 1896. W. O. Cady 1896-97. Charles H. Titus A. A. Wright George L. Westgate Charles Nason Henry D. Robinson Henry S. Thompson W. H. Starr Shadrach Leader M. J. Talbot Walter Ela W. J. Smith Angelo Canoll C. H. .Ewer William H. Allen S. Hamilton Day Julian S. Wadsworth John H. Allen C. E. Beals C. H. Smith PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees President, Sylvester R. Nicholas; Secretary, John M. Nye; Treasurer, Frank Potter, William V. Slocum. John Pearce, John Aspinwall, Charles T. Howard, Martin Bradford, John Hammond. Stewards Leroy T. Lawton (R. S.), Everett E. Salisbury (D. S.), Joseph Pearce, J. Ellery Hudson, Sylvester R. Nicholas, John M. Nye, John Pearce, William' W. Bailey, William V. Slocum, Thomas J. Colvin. 140 SOUVENIR HISTORY Sunday School Superintendent, John M. Nye; Assistant Superin- tendent, Everett E. Salisbury; Secretary, Everett E. Salisbury; Assist- ant Secretaries, Winfield Myrick and W. W. Bailey; Treasurer, Irving P. Hudson; Librarians, William B. Watson, Herbert Colvin; Choris- ter, J. M. Nye; Superintendent of Primary Department, Mrs. Hattie Arnold. Teachers Miss May E. Hudson, Silas T. Nye, Miss Lena Myrick, Miss Carrie Bradford, Mrs. J. M. Nye, John M. Nye, William H. Sterratt, Mrs. Abbie Handy, Mrs. C. H. Smith, Miss Fannie Myrick, Mrs. George Sheldon, Rev. C. H. Smith, E. E. Salisbury. Epworth League President, Silas T. Nye; First Vice-President, Mrs. C. T. Briggs; Second Vice-President, Carrie Bradford; Third Vice-President, Mrs. Walter Hill; Fourth Vice-President, Herbert Colvin; Secretary, Mabel J. Ray; Treasurer, W. W. Bailey. Junior League Superintendent, Rev. C. H. Smith. Benevolent Society President, Mrs. William V. Slocum. SWEDISH M. E. CHURCH, PONTTAC, R. I. The first Methodist meetings among the Swedes in Pontiac date from November, 1889, ar >d were held in the home of Sven Ahlstrom, THE SWEDISH PONTIAC CHURCH. REV. SVANTE MOODY. who became the first class leader. This work was begun and carried forward by the Swedish church in Providence. In September, 1892, Rev. Harold G. Boivie took charge of this mission and continued there until April, 1896, when he was succeeded by the present pastor, Rev. Svante Moody. The mission became a separate organization in June. SOUVENIR HISTORY 141 1893. The membership numbers 37 and the Sunday school enrolls 40. The house of worship was built in 1895 at a cost of $2300 and was ded- icated Dec. 1 5th. Revs. C. A. Cederberg, C. Paulson and S. O. Ben- ton were the preachers. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Charles Lonn, Sven Ahlstrom, Gustaf E. Carlson, John E. Frank, August Axelson. Stewards Mrs. Hannah Lonn, Recording Steward; Mrs. Emma Sanzen, District Steward; Miss Gerda Almen, Sven Ahlstrom. Exporter Gustaf E. Carlson. Leader Gustaf E. Carlson. Sunday School Superintendant, Albin Holmander. M. E. CHURCH, PORTSMOUTH, R. I. In the year 1790, Jesse Lee, the apostle of Methodism in New England, was engaged in organizing societies and forming circuits in Connecticut. Not limited by boundary lines, he crossed over into Rhode Island in June of that year. He landed in Newport, where he preached, but gained no more than a respectful hear- ing. Leaving Newport, he passed up the island, crossing Narragansett Bay to Bristol, at the point now known as Bristol Ferry. He preached in Bristol, then went to Warren, and then to Providence. In July of 1/90, a conference was held in Lynn, Mass., at which Lee reported the initia- tive work done in Rhode Island. From that conference Bishop Asbury sent Lemuel Smith to form a station in Rhode Island. He formed what was called the "Providence Circuit." During this year Portsmouth was one of the preaching places. In 1791 and 1792 Portsmouth was somehow connected with the East Greenwich and Warren circuits. The year following, 1793, a Metho- dist society was organized in Portsmouth. A full list of the members THE PORTSMOUTH CHURCH. 142 SOUVENIR HISTORY. cannot be given. Among them were Matthew Cook and wife, John Earle and wife, Peter Barker and wife, Nathan Brownell, John Anthony, and a colored woman named Violet, who belonged to the family of Matthew Cook. The home of Matthew Cook was the first preaching place. It was dedicated to divine service by Bishop Asbury, Jesse Lee, John Chalmers, Zadoc Priest, Daniel Ostrander, John Broadhead and George Rich, a layman of blessed memory. The society grew so rapidly that a more commodious place became neces- sary. An unfinished! dwelling-house was purchased, fitted up with pulpit, seats and galleries on three sides. This unpretentious building served the society for forty years, having been improved in 1806 under REV. J. N. GEISLER. WILLIAM EARLE COOKE, 101 yrs. old. member of Official Board 77 yrs. the direction of Rev. Levi Walker. In 1834 it was further improved by Rev. George H. Winchester. But the numbers grew so rapidly that a new building was necessary. Consequently, in 1838, Jonathan Cady was appointed to this circuit. His first work was to secure the election erf a Board of Trustees, according to the Discipline of the church. This Board consisted of the following persons : Oliver Brow- nell, Jonathan Tallman, William Earle Cook (still living in the iO2d year of his age), John B. Cook, John Tallman, Joseph B. Cory, Ben- jamin Tallman, John S. Biownell and Barzillai Fish. The building committee were Jonathan Cady, John B. Cook and William Earle Cook. They purchased the lot on which the church now stands, paying for it $120.50. In August of 1838, ground was broken for the new church. Octo- ber 9th the frame of the building was dedicated by Dr. Frederick SOUVENIR HISTORY, Upham, who was Presiding Elder of the district, and on the 25th of December the finished house was dedicated by Rev. Phineas Crandall of Fall River. The cost of the house was $2,020. For fifty-nine years this house served as a place of worship, with but few improvements. In 1890 it was greatly enlarged and improved under the direction of Brother B. F. Simon. Spiritually and numerically, the society has been subject to great fluctuations. Great revivals and great depressions have followed in regular order. The society is as large now as ever in its history. It has enjoyed a steady growth for several years. Its prosperity might H. CHESTER HEDLEY. Epworth League President. THOMAS D. FULLER. Sunday School Superintendent. have been greater during these recent years but for the disintegrat- ing influence of Christian Alliance ideas. Portsmouth is a beautiful suburb of Newport. The electric car line will shortly connect this place with Newport and Fall River. The line of the electric will pass directly by the church door, making it easy of access. The prospects for the church in the future are bright. May she prove worthy of her illustrious past. PASTORS. 179 2 - Lemuel Smith 1793- Philip Wagger 1797. David Pitt John Chalmers T 79&. Zadoc Priest T 799- Cyrus Stebbins 1796. Daniel Ostrander James Snelling Daniel Chapin Wesley Budd John Broadhead Ezekiel Canfield Joshua Hall Truman Bishop 144 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 1800. 1801. 1802. 1803-4. 1805. 1806. 1807. 1808-9. 1810-11. 1812. 1813. 1814. 1815. 1816-17. 1818-19. 1820. 1821. 1822. 1823. 1824. 1825. 1826. 1827-28. 1829. 1830. 1831. 1832. 1833. 1834- 1835- Joshua Hall 1836. John Finnegan J&37. Daniel Fiddler 1838-39. Reuben Hubbard 1840. Caleb Norris 1841. Albert H. Cobb 1842. Alexander McLane 1843. Dyer Burge 1844. Clement Parker 1845. Joseph Snelling 1846. Nehemiah Coye 1847. Ebenezer Esty 1848. Levi Walker 1849-50. Joshua Crowell 1851-52. Levi Walker i%53- Nehemiah Coye Asa Kent 1854. Benj. F. Lambord 1855. Edward Hyde 1856. William Marsh 1857. Benj. R. Hoyt 1858-59. Jason Walker 1860. John Lindsey 1861. Nathan Payne 1862. Daniel Dorchester 1863. Isaac Stoddard 1864. Isaac Stoddard 1865. J. W. Case 1866-67. Daniel Webb 1868. Milton French 1869. Joel McKee 1870-71. Newell S. Spaulding 1872. Nathan Spaulding T 8/3- David Culver 1874-76. Asahel Otis 1877-78. Reuben Ransom 1879-81. John W. Case 1882. William Livesey 1884-85. Samuel Heath ' 1883. Thomas W. Tucker 1886. Onesiphorus Robbins 1887. Samuel Drake 1888-91. George H. Winchester 1892-94. Supplied 1895-97. J. S. Standish Josiah Litch Proctor Marsh Jonathan Cady Chester W. Turner No Pastor Charles Noble George W. Carpenter Ebenezer Blake George W. Wooding William Cone George Burnham Lawton Cady Nathan Payne J. B. Weeks Charles Hammond George C. Bancroft George C. Bancroft Asa N. Bodfish Henry Mayo Silas S. Cummings Caleb M. Alvord G. M. Hamlen Henry H. Smith S. W. Coggeshall T. B. Gurney C. M. Alvord S. Y. Wallace John E. Gilford William O. Cady Paul Townsend Oliver H. Pernald Elijah F. Smith D. M. Rogers John G. Gammons C. P. McFarland S. P. Snow No Pastor W. H. Allen Heflin S. Smith C. T. Hatch James Tregaskis B. F. Simon G. H. Butler J. N. Geisler PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees William E. Cook, Lorenzo D. Tallman. Philip B. Chace, R. M. Wyatt, Willard S. Brayton, Albert Sisson, R. S. Chace, George F. Grinnell, Marion S. Olevia. SOUVENIR HISTORY 145 Stewards William E. Cook, Philip B. Chace, Lorenzo D. Tall- man, Albert Sisson, James B. Ashley, Robert M. Wyatt, John S. Free- born, Henry Hedley, Benjamin F. Pierce, Herbert S. Grinnell, Sil- vanus P. Fish, George A. Faulkner, John W. Franklin. Sunday School Superintendent, Thomas D. Fuller; Assistant, Willard S. Bray ton; Secretary and Treasurer, Miss Emily Chace; Librarian, H. Chester Hedley. Teachers The Pastor, P. B. Chace, Mrs. P. B. Chace, W. S. Brayton, R. M. Wyatt, Miss Ella D. Chace, Mrs. Henry Hedley, Mrs. Giles Davol, Miss Kate L. Durfee, Mrs. R. S. Chace, Epworth League President, H. Chester Hedley; First Vice-Presi- dent, Herbert S. Grinnell; Second Vice-President, Miss Ella D. Chace; Third Vice-President, Miss Kate L. Durfee; Fourth Vice- President, Miss Kate B. Fish; Secretary, Miss Lottie F. Grinnell; Treasurer, William F. Brayton. THE METHODIST SOCIAL UNION OF PROVIDENCE (R. L) AND VICINITY. J. E. C. Farnham. The cultivation of "the con- nectional principle," and to pro- mote the spirit of fraternal in- tercourse and Christian enter- prise among the members and congregations of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Providence and vicinity," is the objective mission of the Methodist Social Union. It means the moral up- lift of all who come within the radius of its influence. The Union has been, measurably, at least, successful in the cause for it was created. J. E. C. FARNHAM. This organization came into being from the fact that the leading laymen of Providence believed that, by its agency, great good would result to the churches allied in it, as also to individual Christian life. It was organized, after a number of preliminary meetings, on June 25, 1882. The Union holds four meetings each year. At each of these gatherings, from six to seven o'clock is an hour for social intercourse, SOUVENIR HISTORY. 146 and for an interchange of acquaintance. The exercises at the banquet are, in part, devotional, an invocation preceding, and a prayer follow- incr' the meal. Music also forms a prominent feature of these gather- ings, both vocal and orchestral. Addresses and papers on vital sub- jects, together with discussions of topics pertinent to the welfare of the church, have especially characterized these several meetings. In this way there has been afforded an opportunity for Providence Methodism with invited guests to hear many of the more noted Christian scholars of our own and other denominations. Twice in its history it has been the delightful experience of this Union to give a reception to our Board of Bishops. Each has been an occasion of special enjoyment. By the agency of this Union the missionary and other benevolent causes of our church, as, in fact, the varied interests of our universal Methodism, have been presented to the consideration of the leading laymen of the local churches. Character has been given to the Union by the men who have been the leaders in its organization. Its officers have been men promi- nent not only in the church, but in the professional, business and civic affairs of the community. Its presidents have included educators, law- yers, business men, and others. These have given not only dignity and strength to the Union itself, but their personal standing has empha- sized the worth of the organization. Successively its presidents have been: George B. F. Hinckley, 1882-84; Frank H. Maynard, 1885; Wal- ter H. Barney, 1886; Richard W. Smith, 1887; Joseph E. C. Farn- ham, 1888; Horace S. Tarbell, 1889; Walter B. Jacobs, 1890; Albert J. Manchester, 1891; Rev. F. D. Blakeslee, D. D., 1892; Henry A. Fifield, 1893; Joseph W. V. Rich, 1894; Rev. M. J. Talbot, D. D., 1895; George W. Lanphear, 1896; Harmon S. Babcock, 1897. Of these presiding officers all are living, with the exception of the first one. The Union has been a valuable auxiliary to the several churches. It has not met the idea of all in connection with the Metho- dist churches it is designed to bring together and help. It is not a perfect institution. No human society is. God was recognized in the organization of the Union, and His blessing has been sought in its continuance, and he has signally favored it. Its object is most com- mendatory, and its future cannot fail of further and constant usefulness. ASBURY MEMORIAL M. E. CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. The first public meeting- of this society was held on the 22d of March, 1868, in the Moshassuck Engine House, situated on Mill street, the lower floor being used, while the upper was occupied for a police station. Rev. John Livesey, then pastor of Power Street, now Hope Street Church; John Benton, also of Power Street, and Thomas J. Gardner of Mathewson Street Church, were the members of the com- mittee who secured the place for the use of the mission. The morning hour was devoted to a prayer meeting, followed by ASBURY MEMORIAL CHURCH. REV. J. A. L. RICH. the organization of a Sunday school. James C. Jacobs was chosen Superintendent and John Burton, Assistant Superintendent; Philip B. Stiness, Jr., Secretary and Treasurer. The Rev. John Livesey preached in the afternoon and led a prayer service in the evening. Two classes were formed, Morris Deming and John Foster appointed leaders. A petition was drawn up and sent to the annual conference for a pastor, and the Rev. John Livesey was appointed to take charge of this young church of twenty members, two weeks after its organiza- tion. The stewards were John Benton, Morris Deming, William T. Moorhead, William H. White, James C. Jacobs and John Foster. Trustees, Morris Deming, John Burton, George W. Cady, John Bid- well and Philip B. Stiness, Jr. The city authorities desiring the room for police purposes, they were, after a few months, compelled to vacate, holding services during July and August in the Church of the Redeemer, on North Main 148 SOUVENIR HISTORY. street, just across from the place where the Asbury Memorial now stands. Subsequently the services were held in the parsonage, then on North Main street and Livingstone avenue, where they remained until the chapel, now in the rear of the church, and used by the Ep- worth League for gymnasium purposes, was completed and ready for use. This chapel was dedicated on the nth of November, and remained the place of worship until the new church was built, stand- ing on the same spot where the chapel stood, where in earlier days was a house in which it is said George Washington and Lafayette stayed for a time in Revolutionary days. The new church was begun under the labors of the Rev. W. J. Smith, and completed while the HOUSE USED AS PARSONAGE. CHARLES A. PHILLIPS. President Board Trustees. Rev. George W. Hunt was in charge. It was dedicated Oct. 17-18, 1888, under the direction of the Rev. D. A. Jordan, Presiding Elder of the district, Bishop R. S. Foster preaching the sermon. The church is Romanesque in style, built of granite and brick, the audience room finished in black walnut, 609 seats on the floor and a rear gallery. The vestry has ample accommodations for Sunday school work, which has always been a specialty. The church was built at a cost of $35,000. George W. Cady, one of the trustees, was the architect. The church has now a membership of 286, and 14 probationers. It has ever been a working church and possessed of a revival spirit. It is fitting to add at this point, that during the history of the church self-sacrificing and devoted members have been found, who gave of their time and substance to her needs, among whom is Miss Sidney McKnight, an elect sister, who has not only given material aid, but has for years been a spiritual inspiration. SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 1868-69. John Livesey 1887-88. 1870-71. Asa N. Bodfish 1889. 1872-73- John F. Sheffield 1890-91. 1874-76. Alexander Anderson 1892-93. 1877-78. Shadrach Leader 1894. 1879-80. William H. Stetson 1881-83. Hopkins B. Cady 1895. 1884-86. William J. Smith George W. Hunt S. Hamilton Day Edwin F. Jones Samuel McBurney Albert Cameron John L. Pitner Joshua A. L. Rich CHARLES H. NORTHCOTT. Epworth League President. GEORGE E. BAKER. Sunday School Superintendent. PRESENT OFFICIARY. _^ Trustees Charles A. Phillips, President, George W. Cady, Dr. S. S. Burton, Treasurer, Miles Lees, Professor N. G. Kingsley, George E. Baker, Frank G. Cleasby, Fred A. Horton, Jarvis S. Horton. Stewards H. E. Royce, C. A. McKay, Joseph Tandoin, L. O. Phillips, John McGethlin, Cyrus Le Lacheur, C. H. Northcott, John A. Tandoin, George Wills, George A. Johnson, Fred L. Smith, Joseph T. Tandoin. Sunday School George E. Baker, Superintendent; Fred A. Horton and Jarvis S. Horton, Assistants; Fred G. Phillips, Secre- tary; G. Albert Baker, Assistant Secretary; Fred A. Horton, Jr., Treasurer; Charles H. Northcott, Librarian; Thomas Palmer and Mrs. G. E. Baker, Assistants; Mrs. Maggie Crosgrove, Superintendent of Infant Room; Mrs. Frank G. Cleasby, Assistant. Teachers J. A. L. Rich, Bible class; Mrs. Lydia W. Cooper, Robert McDuff, Joseph Tandoin, G. H. E. Royce, Miss L. A. Wash- burn, Mrs. J. A. L. Rich, Ella A. Myers, Miss Gertie Mayo, Miss Effie Whittemore, William Ricketts, Miss Bessie Rickctts, Mrs. Fred. Smith, 150 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Miss Louisa Phillips, Miss Minnie Phillips, Mrs. Charles Phillips, Pro- fessor N. G. Kingsley. Exhorter Joseph Tandoin. Local Preacher R. S. Foster. Deaconess Miss Blanche Baker. Class Leaders Charles A. McKay, Joseph Tandoin. Epworth League Asbury Chapter, No. 1,620, formed during the pastorate of the Rev. S. H. Day, 85 members. Charles H. Northcott, President; Walter Royce, Secretary; Gertie Mayo, Treasurer; Everett Horton, Financial Secretary; Louisa Phillips, Assistant; Laura Wash- burn, First Vice-President; Blanche Baker, Second Vice-President; Venie Cole, Third Vice-President; Mrs. Fred L. Smith, Fourth Vice- President. Junior League Samuel Marshman, Superintendent; Hattie Stone, President; Bertram Myers, Secretary and Treasurer. BROADWAY M. E. CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. In the month of April, 1850, under the direction of members of the Chestnut Street Church, a Sunday school was organized for the benefit of the Methodist people in the northwest part of the city. The meeting place was in an old Calvinistic Baptist church lo- cated at the corner of Dean and Federal streets. In the same building on the same Sabbath Rev. T. G. Carver preached. Thus began what is now the Broadway church. The pastors of the Chestnut, Power and Mathewson Streets gave their services on Sabbath evenings until the prosperity of the new society warranted the securing of a regular pastor. A superannu- ated member of the conference; Rev. Richard Donkersley, was secured and served the society for a time. In the autumn of this year Rev. Carlos Banning took charge, and inaugurated regular Sabbath services. Pros- perity attended the work for three years,, when it became evi- dent that a new location must be secured in order to give proper opportunity for the further growth of the society. At a meet- THE BROADWAY CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 151 ing of the official board on May 20, 1854, a committee to secure a house for worship in another and more suitable locality was appointed. At the corner of Fountain and Franklin streets stood a church of the Wesleyan Methodists. The society organized in 1840 had failed to succeed and their house was unoccupied. The committee secured this house with the privilege of purchasing. The official board confirmed the action of the committee and voted to move to the new location at once. On Sunday, April 22, 1855, the first service was held in this church, Rev. Jonathan Cady, the pastor, preaching. Passing over the years from 1855 to 1859, we find the same difficulty again facing this society. After much planning and discussion it was finally decided to REV. J. O. RANDALL. MRS. J. O. RANDALL. purchase an eligible lot on Broadway, remove the church building to it and sell the lot on Fountain street. The work of removal and making extensive modifications was made possible by the enthusiasm of the pastor, Rev. E. B. Bradford. "He not only preached, but performed manual labor on the church from first to last." The dedication of this church, September, 1860, marked its highest prosperity hitherto. Though many difficulties have met this society, yet the record from 1860 onward has been one of which Methodism need not be ashamed. The society has grown. Many faithful Christians mark this church as "the spot on earth most clear." The building has been repaired and improved to suit the needs of the congregation. The movement was first called Federal Street Mission. In 1855 the name was changed to Fourth Methodist Fpiscopal church. When the last location was secured the name became Broadway. SCUl'ENIR HISTORY. The first official board meeting was held April 28, 1851, at the house of William K. Thurber. The first board of stewards consisted of Harvey Dingley, Isaac Sperry, N. C. Briggs and Edmond Kenyon. W. K. Thurber, class leader. First Board of Trustees, Rev. J. Cady, Robert G. Cory, John Dean, C. Mowry, R. W. Cady, T. J. Gardiner, L. Arnold, T. Adder- man and W. Barney. The first Sunday school superintendent was William K. Thurber. The present superintendent is Mr. W. N. Lansing. With the begin- L. W. SMITH. Epworth League President. W. N. LANSING. Sunday School Superintendent. ning of this year the Sunday school was graded. The new order is much superior to the former, and this school now ranks among the best in the conference. The music of the church is of a high order, Mr. B. W. Doughty being a very proficient leader. He has been the leader of the Choral Society since its organization. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Sunday School W. N. Lansing, Superintendent; W. B. Sherman, Assistant; Miss Mattie Lansing, Treasurer; George H. Hope, Secre- tary; Mrs. H. S. Lamson, Librarian; Celia I. Booth, Superintendent primary department. Epworth League President, L. W. Smith; First Vice-President, Miss Mildred Moss; Second Vice-President, Miss Sadie Reynolds; Third Vice-President, Miss Lettie Tilly; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. L. Davenport; Secretary, George H. Hope; Treasurer, Miss May B. Skerrv. SOUVENIR HISTORY. PASTORS. 153 B. W. DOUGHTY, Leader of Choral Society. 1850. Richard Donkersley Carlos Banning 1851. D. Fillmore 1852. Moses Chase I853-55- J- Cady 1856. William Kellen 1857-58. J. M. Carroll 1859-60. E. B. Bradford 1861-62. H. S. White A. A. Wright 1863-64. C. H. Payne 1865-66. J. B. Gould (released) Sydney Dean supply 1867-68. V. A. Cooper 1869. G. M. Hamlin 1870. J. E. C. Sawyer 1871. H. D. Robinson 1872-74. J. E. Hawkins 1875. G. M. Miller 1876-77. D. A. Whedon 1878-79. E. F. Jones 1880-82. C. L. Goodell 1883-85. C. B. Pitblado 1886-87. E. F. Clark 1888-91. G. W. King 1892-94. J. F. Cooper 1895. Eben Tirrell 1896. George E. Brightman 1897. J. O. 'Randall CHESTNUT STREET M. E. CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. Freeborn Garretson preached the first Methodist sermon in Provi- dence, April, 1787. At intervals during a number of successive years such distinguished itinerants as Bishop Asbury, Dr. Coke, Jesse Lee and others preached in the city, but though a class had been formed November 4, 1798, and there was a sprink- ling of Methodists, yet it was not until 1815, and under the labors of Van Rensselaer Os- born, that Methodism was for- mally established. Passing through the city on business, Mr. Osborn was invited to preach to the small company of Methodists who worshiped in a schoolhouse on Middle street. An intense revival fol- lowed his sermon. Mr. Os- born immediately left his regu- lar appointment at Needham and began stated services in THK CHESTNUT ST. CHURCH. Providence, Sept. 14, 1815. In the latter part of the same year Mr. Osborn formed a Sunday school. The first superintendent was Josiah S. Wardwell. This school was probably the oldest in the city, and one of the oldest in the country. Mr. Osborn began at once to raise funds for the erection of a house of worship. It was built on the southeast corner of Aborn and Washington streets, and was dedicated June i, 1816. In four years the little church on Aborn street was too small for the growing society. A movement for a new church was begun, and in August, 1821, the corner stone of a new edifice was laid on a lot donated by Daniel Field at the corner of Chestnut and Clifford streets. The church was dedicated January i, 1822, Bartholomew Otheman preaching the sermon. Thus began Chestnut Street Church, the mother of Methodism in Providence. From her have proceeded in 1833 Power Street Church (now Hope Street), in 1850 Broadway, in 1856 St. Paul's, and in 1849, by a union of members from Power Street and Chestnut Street, Mathewson Street. SOUVENIR P11STORY. 155 The New England Conference was twice held in Chestnut Street Church, in 1823 and 1832. When the Providence Conference was formed, its first session was held with this church, January 9, 1841. The first Lay Electoral Conference convened here in 1872, when William A. Wardwell, an honored member of Chestnut Street, was sent as a delegate to the first General Conference to which laymen were admitted. Many times has the church been extensively repaired and altered. In 1837, under Daniel Fillmore, a steeple and a bell were added. REV. A. J. COULTAS. MRS. A. J. COULTAS. This steeple was blown off in the gale of September, 1869, but was replaced at a heavy outlay. In 1851, under John Hobart, marked alter- ations were made, leaving a heavy debt, which J. B. Gould, who was pastor in 1861-62, succeeded in cancelling. The galleries were en- larged under the pastorate of Rev. William McDonald. During Rev. J. E. C. Sawyer's pastorate the parsonage, which had been built in. 1845 on a lot in the rear of the church while J. B. Husted was pastor,, was moved forward and enlarged, and the interior of the church re- modeled, frescoed and furnished. Subscriptions almost covering the expense of the latter were also raised at this time. In 1895, while Rev. H. B. Cady was pastor, the organ was removed to the rear of the pulpit, a new choir gallery and a platform built, a spacious stairway constructed leading to the vestry, and the interior and exterior of the church refitted, making it a most commodious and attractive house of worship. Many have been the revivals that have blessed this church, those- under Revs. Osborn, Otheman, Merrill, Patten, Allen and Goodell being the most notable. '56 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Strong the men who have stood in the pulpit and noble the men who have sat in the pews. Space does not permit to tell of the suc- cesses of such pastors as A. D. Sargent, A. D. Merrill, S. C. Brown, G. M. Carpenter, J. A. M. Chapman, Mark Trafton, Ira M. Bidwell, J. E. C. Sawyer, D. P. Leavitt, and others of more recent times. Neither can we recount the labors and sacrifices of such members and friends as the Adamses, Lewises, Fields, Wardwells, Anthonys, Snows, WALTER M. CHASE. Epworth League President. EUGENE LAWTON. Sunday School Superintendent. Potters, Manchesters, and scores of others who were dear to the church and a blessing to the world. Rebecca Pettis, who, in 1879, on account of failing strength re- signed her charge of the infant class, which she had held for forty-one years, still lives. Chestnut Street Church has had a long and brilliant career. She has lived to see the city grow from 11,000 in population to 150,000, and Methodism to increase from one church to thirteen, and from a membership of about thirty to upwards of three thousand. And though the neighborhood where the church stands has changed from a place of fine residences to a district crowded with stores, factories, tenement houses, etc., yet the same gospel is preached from the pulpit and loyal men and women remain to carry on her work. PASTORS. Preachers previous to 1815: 1792. Lemuel Smith 1793- Daniel Kendall 1805. :D. Burge Epaphras Kibby SOUVENIR HISTORY. 157 Pliny Pratt Joseph Smith John Tinkham Benjamin P. Hill Pliny Brett G. R. Norris Elisha Streeter Pliny Brett S. Wingate Pliny Brett Benjamin Sabin Daniel Wentworth W. Bannister Joel Steele F. Dane Orlando Hinds S. C. Brown Richard Livesey G. M. Carpenter J. A. M. Chapman J. B. Gould William McDonald Mark Trafton Ira M. Bidwell J. W. F. Barnes J. E. C. Sawyer D. P. Leavitt B. P. Raymond A. P. Palmer T. Hollingshead C. L. Goodell H. C. Westwood S. O. Benton C. E. Harris W. P. Buck H. B. Cadv A. J. Coultas PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees H. S. Tarhell, President; William A. Greene, Treasurer- Samuel H. Bailey, Secretary; James L. Bennett. G. F. Martin, Alba R. Abbott, James S. Kettlety, George Nicholson, W. J. Halcrow. Stewards C. E. Hancock, District Steward; W. J. Halcrow, George Nicholson, Eugene Lawton, W. W. Chase, W. H. Cox, Thomas Rice, O. B. Hawxhnrst, Mrs. S. H. Bailey, Mrs. C. E. Han- Enos Mudge 1806. 1794. Joseph Lovell 1795- David Bromley 1807. John Hill 1808. 1796. Stephen Hull 1809. 1797. Wesley Budd Nathaniel Chapin 1810. 1798-99. Joshua Hall 1800. Joseph Snelling 1811. Solomon Landon 1801. Daniel Fidler 1812. John Finnigan 1813. 1803. Allen H. Cobb Reuben Hubbard 1814. Caleb Morris 1815. 1804 Asa Pettie 1815-16. Van Rensselaer Osborn 1853-54- 1817-18. Solomon Sias 1855-56- 1819. Moses Fifield 1857-58. 1820-21. Bartholomew Otheman 1859-60. 1822. Timothy Merritt 1861-62. 1823-24. Enoch Mudge 1863-64. 1825. Daniel Webb 1865-66. 1826-27. Asa Kent 1867-68. 1828-29. Jacob Sanborn 1869-70. 1830-31. David Kilborn 1871-73. 1832-33. Jotham Horton 1874-76. 1834. Jacob Sanborn 1877-79. 1835-36; A. D. Sargent 1880. 1837-38- Daniel Fillmore 1881-82. 1839-40. A. D. Merrill 1883-85. 1841-42. David Patten, Jr 1886-87. 1843- Joel Knight 1888-89. 1844. Thomas Elv 1890-91. 1845-46. T. B. Husted 1892-94. 1847-48. R. W. Allen 189^-96. 1849-50. T. G. Carver 1897. 1851-52. John Hobart 158 SOUVENIR HISTORY, cock, Treasurer; Miss E. L. Manchester, Mrs. G. M. Turner, Miss Clara A. Goff. Sunday School Eugene Lawton, Superintendent ;S. H. Bailey, Assistant Superintendent; Mrs. G. D. Dort, Assistant Superintendent; Miss Cora A. Wells, Secretary; C. Frank Williams, Assistant Secre- tary; W. H. Fredericks, Treasurer; W. Irving Cox, Librarian. Epworth League W. W. Chase, President; Miss Abbie L. Mar- tin, First Vice; Miss Anna C. Hanson, Second Vice; Miss Elizabeth R. Turner, Third Vice; Mrs. Gertrude M. Hurlburt, Fourth Vice; Wilson C. Dort, Secretary; Miss Alice I. Hanson, Treasurer. CRANSTON STREET M. E. CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. The Cranston Street M. E. Church of Providence, R. I., was the outcome of a Union Mission founded by Charles Parker in 1879. During the year following dissensions arose and the leader, with a few friends, seceded and continued to hold meetings in another hall in the immediate vicinity. The original society continued to hold meetings, but labored under the difficulties resulting from the rivalries of two mis- sions in close proximity, and after a time requested the Rev. George W. Anderson, pastor of Trinity M. E. Church, to adopt the work as an auxiliary. In response Mr. Anderson visited the mission and organ- ized a class, with Rev. F. C. Baker as leader. The official board of Trinity M. E. Church, fearing financial responsibility, refused to mother the mission, and an appeal was made to the Presiding Elder of the Provi- dence District, Rev. D. A. Whedon, D. D. After careful investigation of the situation Dr. Whedon decided that "the child was able to walk alone," and organized a church to be known as the Cranston Street M. E. church, with Rev. W. H. Stetson as first pastor. Under Mr. Stetson's labors the work increased, the congregation filled the hall, and the Sundav School sometimes numbered over one THE CRANSTON STREET CHURCH. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 159 hundred in attendance, notwithstanding- the fact that Mr. Parker's Mission was still holding- meetings within two hundred feet. Mr. Stetson at this time met with a discouragement that would have daunted men of less energy and perseverance. His church was notified to vacate the hall, as the Odd Fellows, from whom the society sub-leased, desired to fit up the place for lodge work. The meetings were removed to the house of Joseph Wilbur, but in a few weeks diphtheria in the family necessitated another removal, and the church services and Sunday School were continued at the house of Rev. Robert Coscarden, a local elder, where they continued nearly six months. REV. F. J. FOLLANSBEE. MRS. F. J. FOLLANSBEE. The pastor, feeling that the time had come to provide a church edifice, demonstrated his faith by purchasing- a building lot without a dollar in hand, giving a mortgage for the entire amount of purchase, fifteen hundred dollars. Funds and furnishings were solicited by the pastor and members of the church, and in May, 1884, the society held its first meeting in the new building. Rev. W. H. Stetson deserved great credit for his untiring labors for the accomplishment of a church home. In a short time he had the satisfaction of seeing the building completed and fully fitted, carpeted and furnished, with but one drawback, a debt of $3000, which has been reduced to $1,000 by the efforts of a later pastor, Rev. E. W. Goodier. Goodier also raised $1,600 to repair and enlarge the church edi- fice. Six hundred dollars of this amount was contributed by parties outside the church. i6o SOUVENIR HISTORY. The Cranston Street M. E. church was organized March 9, 1882 with a membership of nine in full connection and twenty-nine proba- tioners. The nominal membership at the present time is eighty-two, One of the most hopeful things connected with the church is the Sabbath School. It has been fortunate in having faithful officers and teachers. The number of scholars enrolled is largely beyond the proportion of the membership of the church. The total membership of the school is 221, with an average attendance of 100. On the even- ing of Dec. 28, 1888, a society was organized under the name of the Young People's Christian League. This title held good until June 17, 1889, when the name was REV. ROBERT COSCARDEN. G. E. CHAPMAN. Epworth League President. changed to the Epworth League, and in due time was admitted to the General League as the Cranston Street Chapter, No. 549. Present number of members is thirty-four. There is also a Junior League, under the care of Mrs. Leach. For some time the Cranston Street church formed part of the Methodist City Missions with Edgewood, the Cranston Print Works and Wans- kuck. Edgewood and Wanskuck have been organized as churches, but the Cranston Print Works failed to materialize. The church has had nine faithful pastors. The longest pastorate was one of four years. There have been marked changes in the membership of the church. Very few of the old members remain. If the church had suffered no depletion in its membership it would have been strong in numbers and resources to-day. We have, however, the consolation of knowing that many who have lighted their lamps at our altar have gone to distant SOUVENIR HISTORY. 161 parts to shed their light there, and we trust to so let it shine as to glorify our Father in heaven. 1882. F. C. Baker 1882-83. W. H. Stetson 1883-85. Howard E. Cook 1886. * W. H. Allen 1887. E. F. Jones PASTORS. 1888. 1889-92. 1893. 1894. F. P. Parkin E. W. Goodier S. M. Beale F. J. Follansbee PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stewards J. W. Bowdish, Ellen Seabury, Annie Chapman, Rob- ert McGhee. Frank Seabury, G. W. Butterworth, Charles Stevens, George E. Chapman, Mary Brown, Alzada Weymouth, Frank Boyd, McKilvey Grant. Sunday School Superintendent, Robert McGhee; Assistant Superintendent, W. H. Skeel ; Treasurer, G. W. Butterworth. Epworth League President, G. E. Chapman; First Vice President, Robert McGhee; Second Vice President. Miss I. Boardman; Third Vice-President, Margaret Marshall; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. C. W. Butterworth; Secretary, W. H. Skeel; Treasurer, Mary L. Skeel. fittnior League Superintendent, Mrs. A. F. Leach. HAVEN M. E. CHURCH, EAST PROVIDENCE, R. I. The Haven Methodist Episcopal Church of East Providence is one of the youngest and most promising of our Conference. Located in a growing residential section, only about fifteen minutes' ride by the electrics from the centre of the city of Providence, its growth in at- tendance and membership has been steady and rapid, and it enjoys to- day the somewhat rare distinction in New England of being the lead- ing church in a rapidly growing community. Methodist preaching was first in- troduced into this place over forty years ago, or before 1860, by the Rev. Samuel Griffin, a local preacher of this vicinity, and class meetings were held at private resi- dences. No visible result remained, ___ i _^ ^^^ _^ _ ^ i however, of these efforts to con- tribute to the movement which re- THE EAST PROVIDENCE. CHURCH. .... ,11 suited in the present church, the birth of which was realized in the organization of a class by the Rev. A. J. Church, then the pastor of the Hope Street M. E. Church in Providence, in the year 1874. After conducting the class in person for several months, Mr. Church appointed Theodore W. Chase as leader, who was assisted and in a few weeks succeeded by the Rev. Thomas Ely, a superanuated preacher residing in the place. Rev. Mr. Ely after a little while called a meeting in a small room in the "Chedel Building," to consider the advisability of forming a Sunday school and of arranging for Sabbath preaching services. Five persons responded to the call, and decided to go forward in the prosecution of the enterprise. Chedel Hall, with accommodation for two hundred persons, was hired for the purpose. On the following Sunday, June 6th, 1875, Rev. Thomas Ely preached the first sermon, and on the succeeding Sunday, June I3th, the Sunday School was organized, with Mr. J. S. Robert as Superintendent. During the first two years of the society's history Rev. Mr. Ely and preachers from the neighboring city sup- plied the pulpit. In October, 1875, tne church was fully organized, fifteen members withdrawing their relation from Hope Street to en- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 163 gage in the enterprise. At the annual conference in 1877, the little society of twenty-six members applied for a conference minister; the charge was recognized, united with St. Paul's of South Providence, and the Rev. A. Anderson was appointed to the combined churches for three successive years. On March 29, 1880, the church assumed the name of "Haven Methodist Episcopal Church." At the following conference the Rev. B. F. Simon, a probationer in the conference and a student soon to graduate from Wesleyan University, was appointed to the church as the first preacher of the charge. Mr. Simon served the church for the then full term of three years with great efficiency, and became not only greatly endeared to the people, but also exten- REV. C. S. DAVIS. MRS. C. S. DAVIS. sively identified with the early development of the society. During his pastorate members were added to church and Sunday School, a lot was secured and the church erected, in which, with some additions, the society has ever since worshiped. On April 3, 1883, the house was dedicated, and on this occasion the entire amount of financial obligation ($3,300) contracted in its erection was provided for by sub- scription, after which the sermon was preached by the renowned Bishop Simpson. Mr. Simon was followed by the former pastor, the Rev. A. Ander- son, who spent with the church another pleasant and prosperous term of three years. He was succeeded by the Rev. W. H. Starr, who was appointed in 1886 and served the church for a term of four years. During Mr. Starr's term of service the Epworth League was organ- ized, a chapel was added to the church edifice at a cost of $1,500, $200 of which was raised at the time, and about fifty persons by letter and from probation were added to the church. 1 64 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Mr. Starr was succeeded by the Rev. L. G. Morton, who served the church for the full term of five years. During- this time the debt resulting from unpaid pledges on the original edifice and the balance of the cost of enlargement, the whole amounting to $2,300, was can- celed, and an additional thousand dollars was raised and expended in renovation and repairs. During this pastorate the city of Provi- dence and surroundings was religiously quickened under the labors of D. L. Moody and his assistants. Awake to a recognition of the opportunity, the Haven Church secured the services of an evangel- ist, Mrs. Ledger, held a series of protracted services, and realized a CHARLES C. PHILLIPS. C. S. HAZARD. Sunday School Superintendent. gracious spiritual harvest in which nearly one hundred and fifty pro- fessed conversion, of whom many were added to the membership. The next preacher to serve this church was the Rev. John Old- ham, who faithfully cared for the interests entrusted to him for two years, and added over six hundred dollars to the valuation of the church property. Mr. Oldham in the spring of 1897 was succeeded by the Rev. C. S. Davis, who is pleased to record as the closing sen- tence of this brief history a kind and generous reception. The Haven M. E. Church rejoices in a membership of 275, with an Epworth League of 120, a Junior League of 60, and a Sunday School of over 375, with 48 officers and teachers. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Joseph E. C. Farnham. Isaac F. Foster, Charles C. Phillips, Charles S. Hazard, Fred A. Burt, Arthutf H. Wheaton, Har- mon S. Babcock, Edwin C. Peck, Ezra Bowen. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 165 Stewards Moses W. Small, Daniel B. Chase (D. S.), Arthur H. Wheaton, Leander Baker, John H. French, Dr. George F. Allison, Edwin F. Leonard, Cyrus A. Aldrich, William T. Chase (R. S.), Washington C. Pervere, Frank A. Rounds. Sunday School Superintendent, Charles S. Hazard; Assistant Superintendent, Fred A. Burt; Superintendent of Primary Depart- ment, Mrs. Sarah C. Moulton; Secretary, Henry Moulton; Treasurer, F. M. Chenery; Librarian, Fred G. Burt. Class Leaders Charles S. Hazard, F. M. Chenery, Fred W. Shackleford. Epworth League President, Charles C. Phillips ; First Vice-Presi- dent, Miss Nellie F. Munroe; Second Vice-President, Mrs. G. F. Alli- son; Third Vice-President, Miss Louise Hill; Fourth Vice-President, Mrs. Ida Chase; Treasurer, Mrs. Clifford Leonard. Junior League Superintendent, Mrs. E. M. Munroe. HOPE STREET M. E. CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. The Hope Street Methodist Episcopal church was first known as the Power Street M. E. Church, and was located at the corner of South Main and Power streets, Providence, R. I. It came into exist- ence Jan. i, 1834. For a num- ber of years previous "the sub- ject of building a new meeting house in the eastern part of the city" had been agitated. In the fall of 1832 the building en- terprise took shape. By the efforts and gifts of benevolent individuals, among whom were Daniel Field, Hezekiah An- thony, Joseph Fuller, Levi Webster, Job Andrews, James Lewis Captains Alvira Hall, Abner Hall, David Hall and Edward Hall. The building was brought to completion. The church was dedicated Jan. i, 1834. The probable value of the structure was $15,000. THE HOPE ST. CHURCH. The sermon at dedication was preached by Rev. Jotham Hor- ton, pastor of Chestnut Street Church, under whose efficient supervi- sion the enterprise had been developed. Thirty-seven members became the charter members of the society. Then "about eighty members were cut off from the Chestnut Street Church, who constituted the church, to occupy the new house." A Sabbath School of 100 was a part of the new church, with Job Anderson as superintendent. This edifice served the people until 1862, when repairs became necessary. Repairs costing $6000 were made. A subscription of $1500 was taken, leaving an encumbrance on the church of $4500, which was removed in 1866. A few years after this the feeling became prevalent that the "society should build in a more desirable location." Under the pas- torate of J. W. Willett, 1870-73, it was decided to remove to the site of the present building, on corner of Hope and Power streets, and change the name of the church to Hope Street Methodist Episcopal Church. About this time a parsonage was built. The project of ar- ranging for and building the present Hope Street church edifice was SOUVENIR HISTORY. I6 7 successfully carried forward. On Jan. 4, 1874, the vestry was opened for use, and Oct. 22, 1874, the church was dedicated. The Power Street Church enjoyed a season of prosperity extend- ing nearly twenty years, when the interest began to waver. The mem- bership increased at times to a strong number. From the begin- ning the church enjoyed a revival spirit. Each year there was a record of spiritual prosperity. There were some remarkable revivals. The first year of the church's history, under the pastorate of Charles K. True, there were forty conversions. In 1841, Charles S. MacRead- ing, pastor, there was an extensive work of grace. In 1848, Daniel Wise, pastor, another extensive revival prevailed. In 1865-67, when HOPE STREET PARSONAGE. INTERIOR OF CHURCH. G.-M. Hamlin was pastor, the church again was visited and many souls saved. Under Dr. A. J. Church, in 1873-76, an outpouring came, re- sulting in 225 conversions, saving over half to the church. Since this pastorate conversions can be noted during succeeding pastorates, but no general awakening has visited the church. During the Civil War the church held together very well. About 1865 prosperity was wanting. The tendency was downward. The interest was on the wane. After the new building had been completed n 1874 the tide turned. With the new building and surroundings the people took courage, and the blessing of God attended their efforts. A revival greatly strengthened the church. Again the tide turned when, in 1876, business depressions came to the people. A debt of $9,500 on the church greatly embarrassed the church and hindered its prosperity. The debt was paid in 1880, during the pastorate of D. A. Jordan. The payment of this debt stands for heroic action on the part of the people. It cannot be said that the church has grown to be a strong church in the city of Providence. Yet her career will compare .avorably with sister churches. With seasons of prosperity there have 168 SOUVENIR HISTORY. come seasons of adversity. The finance problem has ever been an em- barrassment. Yet God has blessed the people, and they still are trust- ing Him. With removals, deaths and financial depression, the church as it now stands, 150 members, represents a noble band of people. A Sunday School of 200 is the hope of the church. An Epworth League, organized Dec. 21, 1891, is doing good work. A Junior Epworth League, organized Oct. 19, 1895, is a promising band of children. REV. J. S. BRIDGFORD. 1834. Jotham Horton Charles K. True David Patten J 834-35- Hiram W. White J 835-36. Asa U. Swinerton 1837. Abel Stevens PASTORS. 1838 1839-40. 1841. 1842. 843- 1844-45. 1846. 1847-48. : 849-50. :85i-52- 1853-54. '855-56. 1857-58. 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-64. 865-66. 867. 1868. 1869. 870-72. I873-75- 1876-78. 1879-80. 1881-82. 883-85. 886-87. 1888-92. 1893-94. 1895-97. Richard Livesey Daniel Fillmore Charles S. Mac Reading Ezekiel W. Stickney William T. Harlow Asa U. Swinerton Elisha B. Bradford Daniel Wise Horace C. Atwater James D. Butler John Howson John Lovejoy James Mather Thomas Ely Henry Baylies John B. Gould George M. Hamlen John Livesey James A. Dean Charles MacReading John W. Willett Andrew J. Church A. W. Kingsley D. A. Jordan W. V. Morrison Thomas J- Everett W. I. Ward H. D. Robinson F. C. Baker J. S. Bridgford PRESENT OFFICIARY. Local Preacher Samuel Griffin. Trustees Frederick P. Pearce, John K. Harris, B. B. Nickerson, W. W. May, Jeremiah Miller, Bingham C. Stewart, Henry B. Sim- mons, H. E. Horton. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 169 Stewards Arthur M. Baker, B. B. Nickerson, Isaac W. Chase, Alfred W. Pay, William Martell, Mrs. M. E. Douglass, Albert Jessup, WUliam S Edward, Edwin F. Higgins, Thomas F. Milne, L. C. Whit- tier, Miss E. M. Crocker, Mrs. Martha Edward. Class Leader Edwin F. Higgins. ALFRED W. PAY. Sunday School Superintendent. MRS. J. S. BRIDGFORD. Sunday School Superintendent, Alfred W. Pay ; Assistant Super- intendent, James W. Pratt; Secretary, Frank Thatcher; Treasurer, Isaac W. Chase; Librarian, John Higgins; Assistant, Harvey S. Bridg- ford; Superintendent Infant Department, Miss E. M. Crocker. Teachers Mrs. M. E. Douglass, Miss Annie May, John Caddell, Miss Laura A. Bridgford, Mrs. Martha Edward, Mrs. Eliza Cum- mings, Mrs. Minnie Crosby, Mrs. Margaret E. Webber, Mrs. M. O. Nickerson, Edwin F. Higgins, Melvin Johnson, Mrs. Georgia Thomas, Miss Areta Crowell, Mrs. Maria F. Davis, Mrs. Hattie I. Chase, Miss Mary A. Durfee. Epworth League President, Mrs. M. O. Nickerson; First Vice President, John Caddell; Second Vice President, Miss Sadie E. Reed; Third Vice President, Miss Edith I. Harris; Fourth Vice President, Miss Areta S. Crowell; Secretary, Miss Ida J. Reed; Treasurer, Alfred W. Pay; Superintendent Junior League, Miss Blanche M. Baker. Deaconess of the Church Miss Blanche M. Baker. MATHEWSOX STREET M. E. CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. This third Methodist Episcopal Church of Providence, R. I., was organized Thursday evening, October 19, 1848. Organization was effected under the direction of Rev. Thomas Ely, Presiding Elder, he and Bishop Hedding having previously arranged all necessary pre- THE NEW MATHEWSON ST. CHURCH. liminaries. Eight persons presented letters from Chestnut Street Church, nineteen from Power Street, and one from East Greenwich, twenty-eight in all, as follows: Preston Bennet, Elizabeth S. Bennet, Abby Munroe, Phila Sweetland, Charles C. Burnham, Eliza- SOUVENIR HISTORY 171 beth P. Burnham, William A. Williams, Ann M. Williams, Henry Baker, Susan Baker, Mary J. Bishop, John Hoar, Mercy Hoar, Anna Briggs, Nicholson R. Eaton, Maria Easton, Daniel Murray, Na- thaniel M. Pratt, Charles W. Fabyan, Pamelia C. Fabyan, Elias Styles, Abby F. Parker, Hannah Frayden, David Sis- son, Sarah Harris, Allen Mun- roe, Josiah L. Webster and Helen M. Webster. The first public service was held in Hoppin Hall, 33 West- minster street, Sunday, Octo- ber i. Rev. Robert Allyn, principal of East Greenwich Seminary, preached from Psalm xx, 3: "In the name of our God we will set up our banners." The new society was marvellously prospered. Congregations crowded the hall. Converts multiplied. By the end of the first conference year the membership had doubled. At the close of the second year it had doubled again. A more commodious place of meeting was de- manded. THE OLD CHURCH. In January, 1850. a committee was appointed to consider the purchase of a suitable lot. After much investigation, the present site was wisely selected. The lot, 60x120, extends from Mathewson street to Clemence street. It cost $8,000. Immediately the edifice was be- gun. On May 28, 1851, it was dedicated, having cost, with furnish- ings, $22,000. At that time it was regarded as one of the finest pieces of church architecture in Methodism. The pews have seldom been equalled for comfort, even to this day. They were sofa in form, with springs, and nicely upholstered. Rev. David Patten, Presiding Elder, preached the dedicatory sermon from Psalm Ixxxvii, 3. He was the 172 SOUI'ENIR HISTORY. first regularly appointed pastor, Rev. William Livesey having pre- viously supplied the pulpit a few months. The first pastor in the new REV. M. S. KAUFMAN, Ph. D. MRS. M. S. KAUFMAN. building was Rev. Robert M. Hatfield, who remained one year. He was very popular. Crowds thronged to hear him. THE PLATFORM AND ORGAN. This church has always been missionary in spirit and generous in helpfulness to others. In 1859, during the pastorate of Rev. HISTORY. Frederick Uphani, a Sunday school was organized in Lester Hall, Cranston street. Suitable measures were taken for its support. Out BERTON E. KILE. Epworth League President. JOSEPH A. LATHAM. Sunday School Superintendent. of that school grew Trinity Church, the largest society in membership of our denomination in the city. Mathewson Street has always felt an THE AUDITORIUM AND PARLORS. honorable pride in this influential and noble daughter. As- sistance was also given to the school which developed into the THE BUILDING COMMITTEE. SOU y EN I R HISTORY. 175 Broadway Church, and to the mission which became Asbury Church. St. Paul's Church appreciated a gift of $1,600 from the same source. THE SUNDAY SCHOOL ROOM. THE GYMNASIUM. In 1871, after the Chicago fire, $1,372 was contributed in aid of the sufferers there. This charge has contributed in the aggregate 176 SOUVENIR HISTORY toward outside benevolences $40,000, giving to missions alone one year $1,707; and for Christian work in the city about $250,000. During the pastorate of Rev. Edgar A. Clark, $9,000 was wisely expended in repairs. The twenty-fifth anniversary was celebrated in 1873, Rev. D. A. Whedon, D. D., pastor, when the entire indebtedness was amply pro- vided for and paid at maturity of subscriptions. Under the pastoral care of Rev. S. F. Jones, D. D., the member- ship was largely increased, there being over one hundred net gain MRS. M. J. TALBOT, For many years a member here. REV. M. J. TALBOT, D. D., As he looked when presiding elder. during his three years. To the Rev. Clark Crawford belongs the honor of organizing a chapter of the Epworth League, which bears liis name. The influence of his faithful pastoral and pulpit work still .abides. In 1893 the present pastor, Rev. Matthias S. Kaufman, Ph. D., became pastor. It has been a pastorate of unusual spiritual and tem- poral prosperity. For many years this society had felt the need of a new church, but it hesitated to undertake it. To add to the problem, there was a $9,000 debt on the old church. But Dr. Kaufman, with his characteristic energy and tact, began early in his pastorate to grapple with the great problem, and after four years of praying, plan- ning, pleading and plodding one of the finest churches of Methodism was completed, and dedicated by Bishop C. H. Fowler. Great credit is due the able and careful Building Committee. The church is located in the very heart of the city, and is admir- ?Jbly adapted for a great institutional church. It has in addition to the SOUI/ENIR HISTORY. 177 auditorium and vestry, ladies' parlors, gymnasium, reception rooms. Conservative estimates place the lot and building to be worth $135,000. We close with a paragraph from the report of the Presiding Elder, Dr. E. C. Bass, at the last conference : "In December (1897), Mathewson Street Church celebrated the completion of their great work of building a new temple of worship on the old site, in the heart of the city of Providence. The edifice and furnishings cost $80,000, and the pastor, Dr. Kaufman, who was largely the inspiration of the great enterprise, had the great pleasure of an- nouncing the great good news, on the day of dedication, that all this expenditure (and also $9,000 of old indebtedness) was already pro- vided for. The winter has shown that this church has yet a great work to do in the Master's name. The results are justifying the large faith, of the men and women who are guiding the affairs of the Mathewson Street Church." 1848. 1849-50. 1851. 1852-53- 1854. 1855-56. 1857-58. 1859-60. 1861-62. 1863-64. 1865-67. 1868-69. William Livesey 1870-72. David Patten J 873-75. Robert M. Hatfield 1876-78. William T. Harlow 1879-80. Micah J. Talbot 1881. Henry S. White 1882-84. Frederick Upham 1884-86. Samuel C. Brown 1887-89. Sidney Dean 1889. Joseph H. McCarty Seth Reed 1889-92. Mark Trafton 1893-97. Edgar F. Clark Daniel A. Whedon Sylvester F. Jones William F. Whitcher Jesse T. Wagner William T. Worth Nicholas T. Whittaker Henry Tuckley Henry Tuckley C. W. Gallagher Clark Crawford Matthias S. Kaufman PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees Josiah L. Webster, Charles F. Hull, Albert F. Davis, Andrew Hutchison, Joseph A. Latham, Robert Hall, M. D., William H. Washburn, E. Harrison Howard, Frank H. Maynard. Stczvards Albert J. Manchester, Wallace Williams, George W. Lanphear (D. S.), Thomas Wickens, William L. Phillips, William R. Sherman, George A. Sayer, Edward Shaw, 2d, George D. Lansing, Albert L. Morrison, Henry A. Fifield, Merrill E. Johnson. Choral Society President, Charles Z. Eddy. Society for Physical Culture President, William L. Phillips. Literary Society President, W. I. Lansing. Entertainment 'Society President, George D. Lansing. Sunday School Superintendent, Joseph A. Latham; Assistant Superintendent, Wallace Williams; Secretary, W. I. Lansing; Treas- urer, William T. Brown: Librarian, Ernest Williams; Assistant Libra- 178 SOUVENIR HISTORY. rian, Charles W. Lansing; Music Director, Charles Z. Eddy; Pianist, Sadie L. Davis. , Ladies' Social (Bosanquct Society) President, Mrs. W. H. Wash- m kpwortk League Crawford Chapter, No. 667: President, B. E. Kile- First Vice-President, A. B. Cunningham; Second Vice-President, May' A Baldwin; Third Vice-President, Mrs. R. F. Belcher; Fourth Vice-President, Clara P. Dyer; Secretary, Harry B. Brice; Treasurer, Hattie A. Leonard; Organist and Leader, Frank Streeter. MT. PLEASANT M. E. CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. About the year 1847 a little band of Christian people in this place gathered for worship in a small rude building, which served as a meet- ing house. REV. C. A. LOCKWOOD. F. W. WING. Sunday School Superintendent. This section of the city was then a farming district, known as Sky- High Hill, with but a sparse population, and now and then a farmhouse to greet the eye and break the monotony for the weary traveler who should chance to pass through this quiet rural village. Since then great changes have taken place; the old farms have been broken up into streets and avenues and plotted into house lots, covered thickly with dwellings, and Mt. Pleasant in the western part of the city of Providence has a population of several thousand. The location is quite elevated, being one of the highest points of land in or about the city. For this reason it was known formerly as Sky-High Hill, now Mt. Pleasant, because of its most excellent view of the city and other portions of the country. SOU '/EN I R HISTORY. , - 179 In this quarter of the Lord's vineyard, in this humble place of wor- ihip, the Rev. Samuel Boyd, a local preacher, is said to have preached the first Methodist sermon to the people of this vicinity. He con- tinued some time faithful in the word and steadfast in the faith, for he was a good man, full of the Holy Ghost. He was very plain in dress, manner and speech. He earned his bread by the sweat of his brow, xnd preached the gospel from Sabbath to Sabbath, because he loved the work, and did it without any money compensation. The first class meeting was held at the home of one Mrs. Jilson, in an old-fashioned farmhouse about one-half mile from the meeting place. Here many precious seasons of grace were enjoyed, and the spirit of God was poured out in abundant measure; but as time went on the society became scattered, resources failed, the interest began to grow less, and at last they were obliged to give up the field. Then came a long, dark period of about thirty-five years, during which time nothing is known concerning the Methodist Episcopal church in this place. However, it was destined to rise again in due time, though seem- ingly crushed forever. About the year 1882 another movement was started as a Methodist Mission at the corner of Chalkstone and Acad- emy avenues. For a short time all was well and bid fair for a prosperous church, but financial support failed, and after a hard struggle the mission was given over to the care of the First Baptist church of the city, and has now become a prosperous society, known as the Mt. Pleasant Baptist church. Once more a period of silence intervened, covering a period of eight or ten years. During this time God was preparing a people to establish a mission that should become a Methodist Episcopal church. To this end in the year 1891 four men, viz., William H. Til- ley, C. W. Crooks, Samuel Ingham and one Mr. Bradley, were called out from their respective churches and opened a gospel service in a small room in the Mowry Academy Building, corner of Academy and Armington avenues. They, with their families and friends gathered about them, formed nucleus for a church and Sabbath School. The society thus formed was called the Methodist Independent church. For a time they seemed to be blessed with great prosperity, the oom in which their meetings were held soon became too small, and -hey were obliged to move to larger quarters. Money was never want- ing for the treasury, and not infrequently souls were found at the peni- _ent form earnestly inquiring the way of salvation. The Sunday School was soon in a very flourishing condition, and great interest was manifested in all departments. SOUVENIR HISTORY. At this time the society rented the large hall in the upper part of the Academy building, formerly used as a school room. For a season all was well, but at last wolves in sheep's clothing began to show their nature and trouble and dissension arose among the happy little flock, and again failure seemed inevitable; but not so this time, for God had ordered otherwise. Thus on June 8, 1892, they voted to join the Methodist Episcopal church, and on Oct. 3, 1892, disbanded for that purpose and transferred all property to the same. Jan. 8, 1893, they were formally organized as a Methodist Episcopal church, with fifteen members, and Rev. Lewis E. Dunham, a supernumerary member of the New England Southern Conference, as pastor. Mr. Dunham con- tinued in faithful and successful service until April, 1893, when Rev. R. S. Moore was appointed to this charge . During his pastorate of one year the church seemed to prosper greatly in spiritual things, and many were added to the society. Succeeding him, 1894, was Rev. F. W. Coleman; 1895, Rev. F. J. Follansbee; 1896-97, Rev. C. A. Lockwood. At present the society has no church edifice, but plans are already under consideration and estimates for a building are being given. It is expected that in the near future a suitable house of worship will be erected. Depression in business circles has been greatly felt by the people of this society; nevertheless, in all our difficulties, God, who is greater than them all, has been with us in blessing. PASTORS. 1893. R. S. Moore 1895 F. J. Follansbee 1894. F. W. Coleman 1896-97. C. A. Lockwood PRESENT OFFICIARY. Stczvards Rev. C. A. Lockwood, Rev. L. E. Dunham, Henry Wills, William H. Tilley, S .N. Davis, Edgar Hathaway, F. W. Wing, F. C. Robbins, George Hinchcliff, Mrs. Frances Pitchforth, Mrs. W. H. Tilley, Mrs. Carrie Robbins, Miss Estella Willard, Miss Eliza- beth Johnston. Sunday School F. Wing, Superintendent; George Hinchcliff, Secretary; F. C. Robbins, Treasurer; Miss Clara S. Taylor, Librarian. Teachers Rev. L. E. Dunham, William H. Tilley, Mrs. W. H. Tilley, M. L. Graten, Mrs. M. L. Graten, Mrs. F. C. Robbins, Miss SOUVENIR HISTORY 181 Estella Willard, Miss Mazie Rockwell, Mrs. F. Paris, Mr. E. B. Mer- ithew, Miss Elizabeth Scocroft, Miss Carrie Kirk, Miss Clara Pitch- forth. ST. PAUL'S M. E. CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. In 1854 a Methodist Sunday school had already been established in this section of the city by R. Brown, but it was in a very weak condition. This year it was reorganized and held in Mitchell's Hall. It was not long before it became so large that they were obliged to move to Lyceum Hall on Eddy street. In 1856 South Providence appeared in the minutes of the An- nual Conference, and then as a mission, Rev. Jonathan Cady, preacher in charge. The first class leader to report to Quarterly Con- ference was R. Brown, in Novem- ber, 1856, and the first stewards were Albert Cutter, Samuel Haney and S. C. Read. January 24, 1858, there were twenty members in the society, and one hundred scholars in the Sunday school. In 1859 tne Conference left the mission to be supplied. In 1860 Rev. Charles M. Winchester, a member of the Broadway M. E. Church, came and labored with the mission. In 1863 Pastor Winchester resigned to enter the Union army, and J. W. Bowdish supplied the pulpit until his return, when he took up the work again. The hall where they worshiped was sold to the town of Cranston for school purposes, and the society accepted the invitation of the Baptist society to occupy their house of worship until they could secure another place. In January, 1866, they rented Temperance Hall for $350 a year. At the close of 1867, Mr. Winchester resigned to take charge of the Seamen's Bethel. The first lots purchased for a church building were on the corner ST. PAUI/S ci 182 SOUVENIR HISTORY. of Plain and Swan streets, and cost $500 each. The first corner stone was laid September 8, 1870. On the 3ist of December, 1870, the ves- tries were ready for use, and were dedicated with a union love feast. REV. W. S. McINTIRE. MRS. W. S. McINTIRE. This was the beginning of a great revival, which continued for seven weeks. A large number were converted and added to the church. With the aid of $500 donated by the Church Extension Society, and HERBERT L. MARDEN. Epworth League President. WILL,! AM G. HAVVLEY. Sunday School Superintendent. their own contributions, the audience room was completed and dedi- cated September 6, 1871. Two days later, at the Quarterly Conference, the name of the society was changed from South Providence M. E SOUVENIR HISTORY. 183 Church to St. Paul's M. E. Church. March 18, 1872, the church property was valued at $14,755, with a debt of $3,576. There were 137 members. In 1885 the church edifice was extensively repaired at an expense of $6,000, and re-dedicated December 3Oth. December 6, 1886, the building was destroyed by fire. The land and ruins were sold for $2,000, and lots were purchased on the corner of Potter and Prairie avenues, where the present chapel was erected at an expense of $17,000, with an indebtedness of $6,000. The dedication occurred May 13, 1888. PASTORS. i [856-57. Jonathan Cady 1877-79. A. Anderson i860. Charles M. Winchester 1880-82. T. J. Everett [863. J. W. Bowdish 1883-84. Silas Sprouls 1863-67. C.M.Winchester 1885. C. H. Ewer 1868. J. T. Benton 1886-88. E. D. Hall [869-71. S. J. Carroll 1889-90. B. W. Hutchinson 1872-73. A. A. Presbrey 1891-93. J. W. Webb 874. A. E. Hall 1894-97. W. S. Mclntire 875-76. W. J. Yates PRESENT OFFICIARY. \ Local Preacher George E. Perry. Exhortcr Garrett H. Speare. Class Leaders Marcus C. Grout, Joseph A. Wells. Deaconess Margaret Todd. Stewards Thomas Crowther, G. B. Burlingame, Charles A. Bixby, Samuel Grafton, Olin Hill, Ira Smith, Walter K. Steere, Charles Grout, Frederic E. Stewart, William J. Bowditch, Richard H. Walker, William Chaffee. Trustees James E. Anthony, E. F. Sargent, G. B. Burlingame, Joseph A. Wells, Marcus C. Grout, George W. Bartlett, B. Franklin Gilmore, Alfred Smith, William G. Hawley. Sunday School Superintendent, William G. Hawley; Assistant Superintendent, Frank O. Warner; Superintendent Primary Depart- ment, Mrs. Mattie E. Hawkins; Assistants, Miss Florence Steere, Miss Lizzie May Sweet, Miss Lillie Tillinghast; Secretary, Richard Walker; First Assistant, Fred Wyatt; Second Assistant, Albert Scott; Treas- urer, F. E. Stewart; Librarian, G. B. Burlingame; Assistants, A. L. 1 84 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Sweet, Walter Mowrey; Chorister, Frank O. Warner; Organist, Miss Annie Scott. Teachers James Thompson, Garrett H. Speare, Edward F. Sar- gent, F. E. Stewart, Alfred Smith, Isaac Martin, Charles E. Bixby, Marcus C. Grout, Joseph A. Wells, Mrs^ Charles Fuller, Mrs. G. Bur- lingame, Mrs. Annie Grout, Miss Ida Johnson, Miss Annie Scott, Miss Fannie Greene, Miss Fannie Colwell, Miss Edna Salisbury, Miss Luella Mulliken, Herbert L. Marden, William Eynon, William H. Hawley, Charles Fuller, Jr., Mrs. W. S. Mclntire, Miss A. Tilling- hast, Miss E. Caulfield, Miss Eva Barnes, Miss Maud McGlaulin, Miss T. Ridderbelke, Miss Rosa Allen, Miss Mattie Enos. Epworth League President, Herbert L. Marden; First Vice- President, Frank O. Warner; Second Vice-President, Edward F. Sar- gent; Third Vice-President, Mrs. Fred. Wyatt; Fourth Vice-President, Maud McGlaulin; Secretary, Fannie Greene; Treasurer, Mrs. Mary F. Pond. Junior League Superintendent, Rev. W. S. Mclntire. TABERNACLE M. E. CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. By Francis Nicholson, Pres. Bd. of Trustees. In 1879 Rev - E. F. Jones, pastor of Broadway M. E. Church, or- ganized a class in Olneyville, in charge of Amos Walker as leader. On January 8, 1882, a Sunday school was organized, with a member- ship of some ninety, including officers and teachers. Mr. F. Nichol- son, a local preacher, was Superintendent. In the summer of 1882 Sunday evening services and Tuesday evening services were insti- tuted. F. Nicholson, under direction of Rev. C. L. Goodell, had TABERNACLE CHURCH. charge of these services. In the fall of 1882 a church building was begun on Harris avenue, and it was completed and dedicated in the spring of 1883, Rev. C. F. Sharpe being the regularly appointed pastor. The church was organized with a membership of fifty-seven. This was increased by sixty-four as the fruit of a revival in the spring of 1883, the pastor being assisted by Rev. I. T. Johnson. It was found best, and, indeed, necessary, to seek a better location with more commodious audience rooms. So Dyer's Opera House on Olneyville square was purchased, and services began in the new church on the first Lord's day of January, 1893. It was duly dedi- cated, under Presiding Elder S. O. Benton, on July I, 1893. Thus Methodism holds the most strategic point in Olneyville, R. I. The prospect for rapidly reducing the debt incurred by purchase of this property was good at the time, but in the fall of 1893 the strikes began, continuing so loncy that a financial panic came, and hence the church i86 SOUVENIR HISTORY. and Sunday school were depleted by removals. People who had sub- scribed on the debt could not pay, and the church has had quite a struggle. But once more the society shows the renewal of its vigor and spirituality. The Sunday school is showing a larger average at- tendance than ever before. Under J. T. Docking's administration en- couraging revivals have occurred. This church is made up mostly of mill operatives, intelligent and industrious people, but in the possession of little or no wealth; in fact, many in the church and congregation must be assisted in some ne- cessities of life rather than render such assistance. REV. W. F. DAVIS. MRS. W. F. DAVIS. In the very nature of things, the church must be conducted upon institutional church plans. Large congregations meet the pastor, but many are stopping in the place but a few weeks, so the congregations are constantly changing. Yet they are people who need just such as- sistance and Christian education and influence as can be afforded them by such a church. The church has a Sunday school of an average attendance of 200, an Epworth League, Junior League, King's Daughters and Ladies' Aid Society, all doing good work. The entire basement of the building has never been used for profit. Recently it has been fitted up so that the church can derive some financial benefit from it. An entrance has been made from the front, toilet rooms for gentlemen and ladies, reading room, all for public use; also a lunch counter and dining room, from which it is hoped that the church may receive an annual income, which is sadly needed to relieve the church in the heavy, burdensome debt that it is carrying. SOUVENIR HISTORY. I8 7 PASTORS. 1883-84. Charles F. Sharpe 1890-94 1885-86 Edwin F. Jones 1895-96. 1887-88. William V. Morrison 1897. 1889. Lewis B. Codding John A. Rood James T. Docking William F. Davis FRANCIS NICHOLSON. President Board Trustees. GEORGE W. AMISON. Sunday School Superintendent. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Local Preachers Francis Nicholson, George W. Amison, James F. Mitchell, William Horsman. Trustees Francis Nicholson, President; George W. Amison, Treasurer; Peter Robertson, Secretary; Samuel H. Bailey, Henry A. Fifield, Lewis R. Willey, John H. White. Steivards Benjamin Stone (R. S.), Herman Herold (D. S.), Ed- ward A. Carpenter, Edwin J. M. Coker, H. Rich, George H. Thomp- son, William L. Laurell, Margaret L. Robertson, Albert E. Titchener. Class Leaders Peter Robertson, Lucy L. Gardner, Margaret L. Eckley, Children's Class. Sunday School George W. Amison, Superintendent; Peter Rob- ertson, Assistant Superintendent; Charles W. Williams, Secretary; Titus Gibson, Treasurer; Percy F. Arnold, Librarian; Francis J. Long, Chorister; George Cray, Organist. Epworth League Peter Robertson, President; Edna Brundrette, Secretary; Walter Sherman, Treasurer; Nina Schryer, Department of Spiritual Work; Margaretha Titchener, Department of Mercy and Help; Charles S. Herold, Department of Literary Work; Robert Rob- ertson, Department of Social Work. Junior Epworth League Irean Pease, President; Edith Thompson, Secretary. TRINITY M. E. CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. The first meeting leading to the organization of Trinity Church was held in Lester Hall, January 16, 1859, at 9.30 A. M. Thirteen were present. On the 6th of the following February the Sunday school was formed, with 109 members. The next Sunday 160 were present, TRINITY CHURCH. and on the fourth Sunday 257. The first officers of the school were: Dr. G. S. Stevens, Superintendent; Mrs. J. Martin, Secretary; Charles A. Williams, Librarian ; John Kendrick, Treasurer. The church was organized April 24, 1859. During the previous three months the mission was in charge of Rev. A. McKeown, D. D. Rev. William McDonald became the first pastor of the new church, being transferred from the New England Conference. He preached his first sermon here from the text, Acts x, 29. After the organization of the church, the hall, seating 500, was filled every Sunday. Conversions of souls were as frequent as Sun- days. The society was directed to its present location in answer to prayer. The corner stone of the church building was laid with im- SOUVENIR HISTORY. 189 posing services June 24, 1864. The edifice was dedicated May 31, 1865. The sermon was preached by Rev. M. L. Scudder, D. D. The church and school soon grew to be the largest in the conference. The REV. J. M. TABER. MRS. J. M. TABER. church has been called one of the most earnest, laborious and success- ful ever established in Providence. It has ever been a revival church. To-day its meetings are characterized by fervor and power. Trinity E. M. WHEELER. Erworth League President. GEORCE W. SMITH. Sunday School Superintendent. Church has one of the very finest locations in all the city. Many streets meet at Trinity square. The church has had a remarkable past, but its golden age is in the future, and not in the past. Wisely man- aged, it is destined to be a great metropolitan church. 190 SOUVENIR HISTORY. During its history of thirty-nine years, the school has had but three superintendents, Dr. G. S. Stevens, Dexter Knight and George W. Smith, who, after more than twenty years of faithful service, still remains in office. The church has ever had faithful and efficient pastors. PASTORS. 1859-60. Wm. McDonald, D. D. 1877-79. D. P. Leavitt 1861-62. W. F. Farrington 1880-82. George W. Anderson 1863-65. James D. Butler 1883-85. J. B. Hamilton, D. D. 1866-68. D. H. Ela, D. D. 1886-88. C. L. Goodell, D. D. 1869-70. V. A. Cooper, D. D. 1889-90. E. R. Thorndike, D. D. 1871-73. George L. Westgate 1891-93. R. L. Greene, D. D. 1874-76. E. M. Smith, D. D. 1894. * J. M. Taber, Jr. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees George W. Bates, Walter H. Barney, Edwin Curtis, Stillman P. Doane, Lloyd C. Eddy, George M. Hunt, Wm. O. Hood, Walter Ballou Jacobs, George R. Loud. Stewards George N. Bullock, George H. Chenery, William H. C'henery, John W. Cornell, Charles E. Hill, Charles J. Hood, William Jamieson, Charles H. James, Edward C. Joyce, Samuel G. Pellett, George W. Smith, Edwin Tetlow, Arthur H. Wood. Sunday School Superintendent, George W. Smith; First Assist- ant Superintendent, George H. Cheney; Second Assistant, John W. Cornell; Treasurer, George R. Loud; Secretary, Walter H. Barney; Assistants, W. A. Cady, Harry Gould, A. T. Andrew, W. Howard Barney, Harry D. Loud, Daniel C. Chace, Horace C. Jacobs; Secre- tary Periodicals, William H. Cheney; Librarian, George W. Bates; Assistants, Charles H. Collins, Walter K. Collins, J. Austin Porter, Charles W. Llttell, Wilton E. Baldwin, J. Earl Read, Charles E. Cal- ve rt, Herbert Henry. Teachers Jessie E. Spencer, Ina N. Wade, Arthur E. Norton, Chas. F. Hall, Clara Congdon, Lula Lake, Carrie S. Chenery, Wm. R. P. Davey, Susie E. Waite, Addie Tabor, Eliza Loud, Emily E. Ince, Imogene Smith, Ellen J. Tetlow Lydia F. James, Effie A. Northrop, Adelia C. Rich, Susie R. Fisk, Sarah Walker, Ella C. Avery, Florence M. James, Candace T. Perry, Fannie Ferguson, Hattie Carpenter, Margret Smith, Nettie Kilcup, Jennie Plummer, Irving C. Hood, Geo. N. Bullock, J. W. V. Rich, Edward Irish, Josie J. Jacobs, Hortense Bullock, Abbie E. Hobbs, Floyd C. Eddy Chas. C Hill, Wm. Davey, Edwin Tetlow, Mabel G. White, Alice Waite, Abbie S. Ghody. Epworth League Edward M. Wheeler, President; Mary A. Pel- lett, Secretary; Clara M. Polk, Treasurer; Ernest Bryant, Spiritual Work; John J. Congfdon, Social Work; William A. Cady, Literary Work; Mrs. George W. Butterworth, Mercy and Help. WASHINGTON PARK M. E. CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. In the summer of 1885, Mr. Arthur J. Myers, local preacher in St. Paul's Church, South Providence, in going often to Edgewood to conduct services at the Sophia Little Home, noticed the large number of children in the vicinity of Washington Park, near Broad street. WASHINGTON PARK CHURCH. The idea of forming a Sunday school took possession of his mind. Encouraged by Rev. Charles H. Ewer of St. Paul's and Miss Re- bekah Kenney and Mr. Frank Smith, he hired a vacant store, formerly used as a liquor saloon, prepared the place, purchased chairs and held the first Sunday school on August 2d. There were present: Mr. Myers, W. W. Burgess of St. Paul's congregation and Sunday school, William Pierce, A. L. Dorr and George E. Perry, members of St. Paul's Church; six residents, including two adults and four children, whose names we have not. Messrs. Myers and Burgess continued their connection! with the school. The first church class was formed November 7th, Mr. Myers being leader, with twenty-two attendants, of various church relations. Mr. Myers transferred his relation to Chestnut Street Church; that church recognized this work as its mission, and authority of self-gov- ernment was given it, and to the Quarterly Conference of Chestnut Street Church Mr. Myers made his reports during the year 1887. During 1888 this mission was supplied with pastoral workers 192 SOUVENIR HISTORY. through the "Local Preachers' Association of Providence," Rev. Frank P. Parkin being superintendent of City Missions. The officiary of the several city missions met in joint session in the character of a quarterly conference. WASHINGTON PARK CHURCH (Interior.) The first Quarterly Conference of this church convened July 5, 1889. The stewards appointed were: A. J. Myers, E. J. Bunker, Samuel Barr and W. W. Burgess. Nineteen persons received the sacrament of the Lord's Supper on Sunday, September 8, 1889, at the hands of Rev. W. H. Stetson. A church was organized with the name Edgewood Methodist Episcopal Church. The first members were: From Chestnut Street, A. J. Myers, Annie Myers, W. W. Burgess, Annie Washington, Delilah Watson, Marietta Watson, Lily Myers, probationer; from Cranston Street Church, Mary E. McLain, Emma Washington; from Trinity, E. J. Bunker, Clara Bunker, Nellie Bunker. A new lot was purchased corner Broad street and Montgomery avenue (now called), and a cheap, plain chapel was erected, costing $289.21. An addition was completed July 4, 1890, and dedicated in August. The Board of Trustees were: Messrs. J. A. Latham, Presi- dent; S. F. Barr, Vice-President; A. J. Myers, Secretary; S. K. Mer- rill, Treasurer; Benjamin Lockwood, Auditor. At the conference in April, 1891, Elliot F. Studley, student in the sophomore class in Brown University, was appointed pastor. He continued four years, graduating from the university in 1893. During his pastorate the total membership rose from 29 to 119; membership- SOUI/ENIR HISTORY. 193 of the Sunday school from 75 to 182. A debt of $50 upon the lot was paid and an addition was made to the chapel. The present pastor was appointed April 8, 1895. A new lot had been purchased for a permanent building on the east side of Broad street, opposite the former site. On October 6th the subscription was started, with an aggregate of $1,235. The corner stone was laid Oc- tober I4th, at which an address was delivered by Rev. C. L. Goodell, Boston, and at which the subscriptions were raised to $1,741. The architect was Mr. Oscar S. Teale, 35 Broadway, New York. The plan is that of the Vincent Chapel, Plainfield, N. J. It is specially REV. FLORUS L. STREETBR. formed for Sunday school work, with apartments for separate classes in gallery and on ground floor, opening into a common auditorium for the general service. A ladies' parlor in the rear faces the pulpit; above it the infant department; a large dining room, and kitchen, lava- tories and heating apparatus occupy the basement. The material is of East Providence face stone, with brown stone finish. Seating ca- pacity is about four hundred. It was dedicated Sunday, June 28, 1896. The former pastor preached in the morning, Rev. S. F. Upham in the afternoon and Rev. E. C. Bass, D. D., Presiding Elder, in the evening. The subscriptions were raised to $7,876, and have since been raised to $9,481. The name of the church was changed on February 5, 1897, to that of Washington Park Methodist Episcopal Church. The present total membership of the church is 140 and of the Sunday school 334. 194 SOUVENIR HISTORY. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Local Preachers Arthur J. Myers, Alfred Marshall. Stewards H. M. Adams (R. S.), C. O. Hall, S. W. Grossman, W. DeF. Brown, J. E. Stevens, B. F. Rich, E. Studley, H, M. Ham- mond, G. F. Rich, D. M. Pratt, H. L. E. Pierson, A. M. Slocum (D. S.), D. C. Williams. Trustees H. M. Adams, E. J. Bunker, J. A. Latham, J. D. Hall, C. A. Sampson, J. P. Rich, A. S. Stone, M. H. Paddock, N. L. Anthony. Sunday School Superintendents, E. J. Bunker, E. J. Stevens, Mrs. C. A. Sampson; Secretaries, H. F. Brown, A. B, Sampson; JOHN S. DILLON. Epworth Lea.erue President. E. J. BUNKER. Sunday School Superintendent. Treasurer, George F. Rich; Librarians, George Bunker,.}. A. Samp- son, William Woodhouse. Teachers Mrs. R. F. Morse, Mrs. A. A. Chase, Mrs. E. J. Bunker, Mrs. S. H. North, Miss Bertha Rich, Miss Alice Baker, Mr. Frank Crowe, Mrs. R. V. Pearce, Miss Amelia Hilkney, Mr. D. C. Williams, Mrs. J. W. Kirke, Miss Edna Sampson, Mr. J. S. Dillon, Miss Belle M. Rich, Mr. S. E. Stone, Mr. C. A. Sampson, Mrs. Mary Woodhouse, Mrs. N. L. Anthony, Mr. N. L. Anthony, Mr. C. O. Hall, Mrs. H. M. Adams, Mrs. Mattie Shurtleff, Mr. S. W. Grossman, Mrs. J. S. Dillon, Mr. Alfred Marshall, Miss Lucy Hilkney, Mr. W. P. Munroe. Epworth League President, John S. Dillon; Spiritual Depart- ment, Mrs. S. H. North; Mercy and Help, Mrs. Mattie Shurtleff; Literary Department, Carlton Studley; Entertainment, Ella G. John- son; Secretary, George F. Rich; Treasurer, Mrs. A. A. Chase; Su- perintendents of Juniors, Mrs. C. O. Hall, Mrs. S. H. North. CENTRAL M. E. CHURCH, ROCKLAND, MASS. Previous to 1886 there was but one Methodist society, the Hath- erly Church, in the town of Rockland. Some of the members of that society who lived in the central part of the town, realized that for many reasons, Hatherly Church was situated too far from the Centre. Ac- cordingly a canvass of the town was made early in 1886, to secure members for a new society. Fifty-three signers were secured, with about two hundred dollars pledged. In April, 1886, the society was formed. The hall in the Dill building on Webster street was secured, and meetings were held there for some time. Previous to this, class meetings had been held at the residence of Mr. Cobbett and others. The pulpit was supplied by Rev. J. V. Cheston, pastor of the church at Hatherly, and the society was considered a part of the latter church. After a year meetings were held in Bigelow Hall on Union street. While worshiping in this building they were set off as a separate so- ciety. They remained in this hall but a short time, when they re- moved to the Webster building. In 1891 the society purchased the lot where the church now stands, and work was begun on the church building in September, 1892. It was dedicated November 19, 1893, sermon by F. P. Parkin of Brockton. The entire cost was about $5,000. At the time the society was set off as a separate church organiza- tion, there were fifty-three members and supporters, but this church has suffered with others by removals caused by the business depres- sion. PASTORS. 1886. 1887-88. 1889. 1890. 1891-92. 1893- Trustees G. H. Beal, C. F. Cobbett, C. A. Hunt, C. N. Kirby, F. D. Lantz, Albert Smith, Herbert Stoddard. Stewards G. H. Beal (R. S.), C. F. Cobbett, Mary Lantz, Mrs. Minnie B. Cobbett, Mrs. William Trainor, Adria L. Lantz, Mrs. J A Winslow, Priscilla Beal, Gertrude Van Wee. Class Leader C. F. Cobbett. Sunday School Herbert Stoddard, Superintendent. J. V. Cheston 1893. F. D. Sargent W. A. Mansell 1894. H. G. Ogden W. A. Covington 189=;. F. A. Wilson E. L. Hyde N. D. Bigelow S. E. Ellis 1896. W. S. Fitch S. E. Ellis N. D. Bigelow J. F. Jenness 1897. N. D. Bigelow PRESENT OFFICIARY. HATHERLY M. E. CHURCH, ROCKLAND, MASS. The Hatherly M. E. Church dates back to 1870. Two attempts had been made to establish Methodism in East Abington (later Rock- land) previous to this. The first was in 1832, when Rev. John Bailey did very efficient work. A church was built on Webster street, at a THE HATHERLY CHURCH. cost of $700. Services were continued by different pastors until 1845 or 1846, when the society gave up having regular preaching and was served now and then by different available ministers. Some time dur- ing this period the building was consumed by fire. The second attempt was begun in 1859-60 on "the Hill." The old Congregational house, kindly furnished by Abner Curtis, was used for the meetings. Rev. Henry D. Robinson, still in the active work in the conference, was the first pastor. Mr. Robinson remained one year and there were sixteen church members. Rev. Joseph Marsh followed, and the membership increased to thirty. But Mr. Marsh became discouraged during his pastorate and gave up the attempt. The third attempt, however, was a success. The small society formed under the second movement lost its distinctive organization and became connected with the church at Hingham. But a class was still continued, with Brother Ezra Arnold as leader. In 1870 a Board of Trustees was selected by the Hingham Quarterly Conference from SOUVENIR HISTORY. 197 the class at East Abington, with a view to building a chapel. An ap- peal was made to the Annual Conference for recognition. This was granted in 1871, but on account of the weakness of the society, it REV. N. D. BIGELOW. MRS. N. D. BIGELOW. was left "to be supplied." Rev. C. S. Nutter, then a senior in Boston University School of Theology, was appointed by the Presiding Elder, Dr. S. C. Brown, and served one year. On April TO, 1871, the first MISS ADA BEAMISH. MRS. F. D. SARGENT. Quarterly Conference was held by the Presiding Elder at the home of Mr. Joshua Curtis, and the church was then and there formally organized. Meanwhile the building was in process of construction and 198 HISTORY. was dedicated April 20 of the same year. The total membership was at first thirty-one. On the payment of $20, Antoinette Curtis was made the first life member of the missionary society. The building is situated on the corner of Liberty and North Union streets, and is a handsome structure. It cost about $9,000, $5,500 of which was paid at once, and the remaining debt cancelled during the years 1884-85. The society has suffered vicissitudes in the removal by death of staunch pillars in the church, and also by the withdrawal of a consider- able number during the years 1885-86, to form a separate church at the centre of the town. These losses, together with removals from town, have not been entirely offset by accessions. But a good spiritual in- terest has always been maintained, and the church bids fair, under the blessing of God, to gather in many more precious souls into the king- dom of God. The following have served as pastors : PASTORS. 1871. C. S. Nutter 1886. O. W. Hutchinson 1872-74. G. H. Bates 1887. W. H. Daniels 1875. G. F. Oliver F. M. Larkin 1876. W. F. Steele 1888. G. B. Norton 1877. S. Hamilton Day 1889. E. L. Hyde 1878-79. Olin A. Curtis , 1890-92. W. D. Woodward 1880. ' R. E. Buckey 1893-94. E. G. Babcock 1881. S. F. Harriman 1895. E. R. Oakley 1882. George H. Trever H. A. Bushnell 1883. W. E. Kugler 1896. W. S. Fitch 1884-85. F. N. Kirby H. A. Bushnell 1886. James V. Cheston 1897. N. D. Bigelow PRESENT OFFICIARY. Sunday School Superintendent, Mary Alice Hunt: Assistant Su- perintendent, William Moseley, Jr. ; Secretary and Treasurer, Laura Bailey; Librarian, Sophia Beamish; Organist, Mildred Pratt. Teachers Miss L. A. Cochrane, William Moseley, Jr., Ada Bea- mish, Mary Moseley, Lucy Curtis, Emily Ewell, Blanche Curtis, Mil- dred Pratt." Epworth League President. Ada Beamish: First Vice-President, William Moseley, Jr.; Second Vice-President, Mary Alice Hunt; Third and Fourth Vice-President, Frank Curtis; Secretary, Blanche Curtis; Treasurer. Mary Moseley. SWEDISH M. E. CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. The Swedish Methodist Episcopal Church was organized by Rev. D. S. Sorlin, pastor of the Swedish M. E. Church at Worcester, Mass., on the 4th of June, 1883, with a membership of twenty-five. Its first pastor was J. M. Ojerholm, and he was succeeded by Nels Eklund in the spring of 1885. After serving one year, he was followed by Rich- and Cederberg, formerly pastor of the Swedish M. E. Church in Jamestown, N. Y. Mr. Cederberg was very successful in his work during the term of four years which he served. In 1897 a lot was REV. C. F. THORNBLAD. THE SWEDISH CHURCH. bought at the corner of Sabin and Cope streets, at the price of $6,000, $1,500 being paid on the lot when bought, and on September 22 of the same year the corner-stone of the present church was laid. On the I2th of August, 1888, the church was dedicated by Bishop Hurst. The church, with a small tenement house bought with the grounds, is valued at $12,000, with a debt at present! of $4,500. Rev. R. Ceder- berg was succeeded in 1890 by E. A. Davidson, who served for six months, and was followed by Rev. C. A. Cederberg, who labored in this field until the spring of 1894, when the present pastor, C. F. Thornblad, was appointed. The present membership of the church is 158, with 12 probationers. The Sunday school numbers 150, and ihe Epworth League has 55 members. FIRST M. E. CHURCH, EAST MANSFIELD, MASS. Episcopal church. building was erected in 1842. The membership of the First Methodist Episcopal church of this place was church which was estab- a Protestant Methodist church which was estab ished in this place. In 1841 Rev. M. P. Alderman was pastor of the Protes- tant Methodist church and came out with a large number of people from that society and organized the present Methodist Mr. Alderman was the first pastor. The church THE EAST MANSP'IELD CHURCH. PASTORS. 1841. 1842. 1843. 1844. 1845. 1846. 1847-48. 1849. 1850-51. 1852. 1853. 1854. 1855. 1856. 1857. 1854-58. 1859. 1860. 1861. 1862. 1863-65. M. P. Alderman E. A. Lyon Abel Gardner A. G. Bolles N. Bemis C. A. Carter J. F. Blanchard Henry Mayo Arnold Adams Henry J. Pyne Francis Dane J. C. Fifield Abram Holway E. J. Stanley S. Griffin E. F. Hinks S. S. Cummings J. C. Allen E. F. Hinks J. B. Sweet Philip Crandon REV. AND MRS. J. B. WASHBURN. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 2OI 1866-68. 1869-70. 1871. 1872-74. 1875. 1876-78. 1879-80. 1881-82. 1883-85. 1886-87. 1888. 1889-90. 1891-96. Paul Townsend Samuel Fox W. J. Smith J. H. Cooley Paul Townsend E. Williams E. G. Babcock H. F. Smith J. B. Washburn J. F. Connell F. D. Sargent J. W. Willett J. B. Washburn THE EAST MANSFIELD PARSONAGE. PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees John M. Atwood, Sr., Charles W. Rathburn, Andrew Phillips. Stewards J. M. Atwood, A. Phillips, Phebe Rathburn, J. M. Atwood, Jr., Orrin Phillips. Sunday School Superintendent, Pastor; Secretary, Estella Thomas; Librarian, Henry Thomas; Assistant, Orrin Phillips. Teachers Pastor, Andrew Phillips, Lizzie Day, Anna Day. M. E. CHURCH, SCITUATE, MASS. By a Friend of the Church. In the early part of this century there was a well-known itinerary called the "Scituate circuit." It seems probable that the circuit took THE SCITUATE CHURCH. this name because Scituate was the most flourishing society on the cir- cuit. This circuit embraced the following thirteen charges : Dorches- ter, Quincy, Weymouth, Hingharn, Hull, Cohasset (which is now known as Nantasket), Scituate, Hanover, Hanson, Pembroke, Plymouth, Marshfield and Duxbury forty miles long, not a single church building in all. From a very rare and valuable old book, pub- lished in 1837, called "Deane's History of Scituate," we quote the fol- lowing concerning the early history of this church : "METHODIST SOCIETY. "Occasional meetings had been held by the Methodists in the vicinity of Scituate Harbor previous to 1820. In 1825, we believe, a society was or- ganized so far as to be legally exempted from the ministerial taxes of the First Congrega- tional Society. In 1826 a small, but neat, chapel was erected near the harbor. It stands on the lane which leads from the old parsonage and on the ancient farm of Samuel Jackson. Mr. Taylor of the THE SCITUATE PARSONAGE. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 203 Methodist connection, was one of the earliest preachers to this people, and instrumental in promoting the society. Since the erection of their chapel Mr. Avery, Mr. Baker, Mr. Keith and Mr. Holoway have officiated, each their year, according to the practice of rotation in the government of the Methodist church." The following extract from the journal of the wife of "Father Taylor" (Rev. E. T. Taylor), is interesting: "Oct. 12, 1819 I am at present on Scituate circuit, where my dear husband labored a part of two years, and, bless the Lord, he has not labored in vain. A large number of precious souls have, we trust, been brought to a knowledge of the truth." REV. FRANK K. BAKER. MRS. FRANK K. BAKER. Of the records of the earliest "circuit" clays little can be found beyond what has been given. Beginning with 1840 this church has kept fairly good records. From the records of Charles Noble's pastorate, 1840, we take the following: "Stewards Anthony Chubuck, Luther Jenkins, Simeon Bates, Thatcher Tilden, Fred Hammond. Estimating committee made a report as follows: House rent, $30; fuel, $16; traveling expenses, $8; table expenses, $160; quarterage, $248. Voted to have a missionary prayer meeting the first Sabbath evening in the (each) month." The Sunday school organized April 8, 1841. F. Hammond was the first superintendent. 1843 "The estimating committee reported to raise $250. Voted an amendment to add $50. Meetings thinly attended; state of religion rather advancing." Church records. 204 SOUVENIR HISTORY. "The preacher remarked that he wanted for nothing but money. He had received between forty and fifty dollars, but would like to receive more." (At first quarterly conference.) "Of the Sab- bath schools on this station little can be said. We have but one, con- sisting of a superintendent, thirteen teachers and an average attend- ance of forty-eight scholars." From the pastor's report. 1846 "Preacher reported a low state of religion in the church generally. The Elder inquired after the state of the Sunday schools and whether we were doing anything for the cause of missions. The preacher replied that monthly missionary meetings were held and col- E. PARKER WELCH. FRANKLIN DAMON. lections were taken in them; up to this time (March 25, 1846), $7.92 raised." Church records. 1848 "The spiritual condition of the church is good, peace and harmony prevail in the church. The means of grace well attended. The social meetings are interesting and profitable. Sabbath school prosperous; number of scholars 68. Missionary interest good, monthly prayer meetings are held, collections are taken." The Pastor's report. In 1858, during William Leonard's pastorate, the church was enlarged at an expense of about $1500. The building committee were "W. Leonard, E. Jones, F. Damon, C. Cottle and E. P. Welch." The reopening exercises took place "Dec. 30 at n o'clock A. M." On July 4, 1865, during Charles Nason's pastorate, the church was burned to the ground. The next conference passed a resolution of sympathy and encouragement. Notwithstanding their great misfor- tune, the people rose nobly to the occasion and began to take steps to rebuild. G. H. Bates (now Presiding Elder of the Norwich district) SOUVENIR HISTORY. 2O5 was the very efficient secretary of the important trustees' meetings at that time. We venture to give in fac simile the report of the initiatory meeting for building of the new church. The building committee were "Preacher in charge, Franklin Damon, Edward F. Porter, Moses R. Colman and E. Parker Welch." The plans in general of the church were furnished by Rev. E. S. Stanley. Dec. 3, 1866 "Voted that the treasurer be authorized to pay $225 for the Gushing Vinal lot, so called, on Central street. That E. Parker Welch be a committee to sell the old lot on Brook street." New church dedicated Feb. 5th, 1868. The new church was val- ued (according to a report of 1872) at $9500. This is the church occu- pied today. During the pastorate of Rev. James Mather, in 1869, the debt on the church was all cancelled. 206 SOUI/ENIR HISTORY. During the pastorate of Rev. C. S. Nutter (who has since become famous as a writer on hymnology) the bell and clock were added to the church and the spiritual work prospered. A good religious work, resulting in a goodly number of conver- sions, blest the pastorate of Rev. G. W. Wright. Rev. S. H. Day's pastorate was a successful one. Rev. J. E. Fischer's two years here, in i886-'87, were very prosperous ones for the church. A large number of the non-churchgoing people attended the church services. During Rev. C. H. Van Natter's pastorate, 1893-94, about $500 was spent on church repairs. The church was painted and shingled, OLD OAKEN BUCKET. etc., and some repairs were made on the parsonage. Mrs. A. F. Servan was largely instrumental in raising this fund. Rev. F. D. Sar- gent returned for a second term and spent a pleasant year in 1895. Rev. R. C. Miller was appointed pastor in 1896 in connection with his work at Nantasket. During his pastorate the forces which had grown faint hearted and had almost abandoned the work were reunited and encouraged to go forward. During the year the interior of the church was thoroughly renovated and painted at an expense of $300. A new pipe organ was also put in the church at an expense of $700. For thirteen years the faithful Ladies' Aid Society of the church had labored arduously to raise this organ fund. In 1897 the work which thus received a new impetus was taken by Rev. F. F. Fitch, a student of Boston University School of The- ology. He was popular and successful. His unusual musical ability was a great help to him in his church work. Mr. Fitch resigned his pastorate in October, 1897, to accept the position of assistant pastor at SOUVENIR HISTORY. 207 Wesley Chapel, Salem, Mass. The present pastor, Rev. Frank K. Baker, was appointed to "supply" the pulpit. The Ladies' Aid Society has been a great source of financial aid to the church. The members have toiled for years faithfully and heroically and are still earnestly engaged in the interests of the church. The Sunday school is growing in interest and doing good work. The Epworth League has been reorganized and is doing splendid work in the spiritual, social and literary departments. P. S. Here it ought to be said that the present pastor is making important history for this church. He is a student in the Boston University School of Theology. He is a member of the California Conference, having just closed a very successful pastorate at Epworth Church, San Francisco. [The Editor. PASTORS. The 1840. 1841. 1842-43. 1845. 1846. 1847-48. 1849. 1850-51. 1852. 1853-54. 1855- 1856-57- 1858. 1859. 1860. 1861. 1862-64. 1865-66. 1867. pastors since 1841 are Charles Noble Henry Mayo Samuel Coggeshall Stephen Puffer Stephen Puffer Samuel Beadle Nathaniel Bemis Joseph MacReading Henry H. Smith James M. Worcester George Burnham James B. Weeks Richard Donkersley William Leonard John E. Gifford Asa N. Bodfish Ed. B. Hinckley John N. Collier Charles Nason Charles Hammond as follows: 1868. 1869. 1870-71. 1872-74. 1875- 1876. 1877-79. 1880. 1881. 1882-84. 1885. 1886-87. 1888-89. 1890. 1891-92. 1893-94. 1895. 1896. 1897. F. C. Newell James Mather G. W. Ballou Charles S. Nutter G. W. Wright C. Morgan H. B. Hibben Supplied by student S. H. Day" L. P. Causey F. D. Sargent J. E. Fischer G. W. T. Glendenning Daniel Richards W. D. Collins C. H. Van Natter F. D. Sargent Rennetts C. Miller F. F. Fitch F. K. Baker PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees E. Parker Welch, A. F. Servan, William Manson. Stewards Mrs. Hattie Welch, Mrs. Edith Servan, Hattie Curtis (R. S.), Mrs. Seth Litchfield (D. S.), A. F. Servan, Mrs. Eunice Litch- field, Mrs. William Manson. Sunday School A. F. Servan, Superintendent; Secretary and Treasurer, Alice Manson; Organist, Hattie A. Curtis. Teachers Mrs. Hattie Welch, Mrs. Elvira Litchfield, Mrs. Inez Merritt, Mrs. F. K. Baker. 208 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Epivorth League President, Mrs. F. K. Baker. Ladies' Aid Society Mrs. Emma Walbach, President; Mrs. A. F. Servan, Vice-President; Mrs. Rachel Burrows, Secretary; Mrs. George Merritt, Treasurer. M . E. CHURCH, SOUTH BRAINTREE, MASS. By a Former Member of the Church. SOUTH BRAINTREE CHURCH. At the session of the Annual Conference held in 1874, Rev. S. C. Brown, D. D., Presiding Elder of the Fall River district, said, in re- porting his district: '"I have recently organized a church at South Braintree. A very respectable church edifice has been purchased of the Baptists by the Boston Missionary and Church Extension So- ciety, under whose auspices mission work was commenced; and an interesting revival has led to a regular church organization, with a good promise of success." In the list of appointments for that year, the charge appeared thus: "South Braintree Supplied by L. E. Charpiot." In April, 1875, William Livesey was stationed at South Braintree, but he was in failing health and did not reach the place until June, and was never able to enter the pulpit. After about two months, during a part of which time Mrs. Livesey supplied the pulpit with great acceptability, he went to Cottage City, and a little later to the Heavenly land. The pulpit was supplied, under the direction of the Presiding Elder, during the remainder of the year. Edward M. Taylor was appointed to the charge in 1876. His pastorate was one of marked success. It was during his administration SOUVENIR HISTORY. 209 that the Presiding Elder, W. V. Morrison, D. D., reported to the Annual Conference, at the session of 1878, that South Braintree was one of the many churches in which many conversions had occurred during the year just closing. In the same report, under the head of "Church Debts," he said: "Old debts in some instances have been reduced or paid. The principal effort has been made at South Braintree, the seat of the finest academy in Southeastern Massachusetts, it having a property and endowment fund valued at $300,000 left to the town by the munificent bequest of the late General Thayer. At the time of our last Conference REV. W. H. ALLEN. MRS. \V. H. ALLEN. we had there a church property admirably located, but in very poor repair and embarrassed with a debt of $2,200. For this sum the prop- erty was mortgaged to the Missionary and Church Extension Society of Boston. The embarrassed condition of this society compelled it to dispose of the property at South Braintree. A committee was ap- pointed, consisting of Rev. D. Sherman, D. D., Rev. R. R. Meredith and Mr. Lloyd, with power to sell the property to the church occu- pying or at auction. The church was very small, it having but three male members and owning no property. To support the gospel, re- pair the church and pay for the property was impossible for them. At this point the enterprise was in imminent peril; it seemed as if all would be lost. However, being encouraged by the action of the Dis- trict Conference, I resolved, if possible, to save the church. I offered the committee appointed by the Missionary Society $1,500 for the property, and the offer was accepted,! becoming personally responsible for that amount. In three months I raised, by private solicitation on SOUVENIR HISTORY. the district, $900, many of the preachers giving generously to the enterprise. The sum of $700 was paid on the principal and interest and $200 on repairs. A board of trustees has been organized and the property deeded to them according to the form in the discipline, each trustee agreeing to pay the interest on $100 for five years, thus relieving the church of all embarrassment for that length of time. The people, being stimulated by this assistance, put forth great efforts and have remodelled the interior of the edifice, put in new pews, and made it in all respects one of the handsomest audience rooms in the conference, with a seating capacity for 260 persons; and it is already well filled. The property is now valued at $4,500. God has crowned the effort with His blessing and the pastor, Rev. E. M. Taylor, has bad the pleasure of hearing at least thirty new-born souls testifying, within a few months past, of their knowledge of sins forgiven." The pastorate of M. F. Colburn, who succeeded Mr. Taylor in 1879, was a broken one. After a few months of faithful service he was obliged to relinquish the work on account of ill health. During the winter the church was supplied bv W. I. Ward, who was then a student in Boston University. Some material improvement was made this year; the vestry was thoroughly repaired and refitted, so that it might be used for social meetings. In the spring of 1880 Mr. .Col- burn returned, much improved in health, and resumed t'ne pastorate. The church edifice was destroyed by fire November 17, 1883, m the third year of the administration of G. E. Brightman. Under his successful leadership plans were speedily made for a new house of worship, which was completed and dedicated during the next year, while S. T. Patterson was preacher in charge. The cost of the build- ing was $5,500. At dedication a debt of $1,200 remained. This was materially reduced during the two years in which W. L. Hood was pastor. In the spring of 1890 the Presiding Elder of Providence Dis- trict reported: "South Braintree, inspired by the incessant labors of the pastor, W. B. Heath, and his wife, has extinguished its indebted- ness of $770." For several years the Methodist society at East Braintree was tinder the fostering care of this church and formed a part of the pastoral charge. Since 1891, when East Braintree became a separate station, this church has stood alone, until 1897, when Holbrook was linked with this church in order to make a charge to which one of the stronger men of the conference could be appointed. The growth of Methodism in South Braintree has been slow, but, looked at broadly through the years, steady and sure. SOUVENIR HISTORY. 211 PASTORS. 1874. L. E. Charpiot 1884. Samuel T. Patterson 1875. William Livesey 1885-86. W. Lenoir Hood 1876-78. Edward M. Taylor 1887-90. William B. Heath 1879. Marcus F. Colburn 1891-92. George A. Sisson William I. Ward 1 ^>9Z~9S- Sherman E. Ellis 1880. Marcus F. Colburn 1896. Charles H. Walter 1881-83. George E. Brightman 1897. William H. Allen PRESENT OFFICIARY. Trustees H. H. Snow, Royal Belcher, James T. Stevens, James Chick, E. A. Fisher, E. A. Hale. Stewards Clayton Freeman (R. S.), Arthur Hale,. Henry T. Cushman, Myron Belcher, Charles Saunders, Walter Holbrook Sunday School Superintendent, Clayton Freeman; Assistant Su- perintendent, E. A. Fisher; Secretary, Miss Florence Arnold. Epworth League President, Miss Louise Jenkins; First Vice- President, Henry T. Cushman; Second Vice-President, Mrs. W. H. Allen; Third Vice-President, Mrs. H T. Cushman; Fourth Vice- Presi- dent, Mrs. Chandler; Secretary and Treasurer, Henry Bates. M. E. CHURCH, STOUGHTON, MASS. The first Methodist sermon was preached in Stoughton at the house of Atherton Belcher in the year 1806. In 1810 occasional ser- vices were held by Rev. John Tinkham, a local preacher resident in Easton. Mr. Tinkham made frequent visits to the sick, and his ser- vices were so highly appreciated that he was invited to hold regular preaching services at the house of Mr. Hezekiah Gay. A revival interest followed and Rev. Artemas Stebbins, preacher in charge of Mansfield and Easton circuits, came often into this field. He formed the first class January 30, 1812. It enrolled the following members: STOUGHTON CHURCH AND PARSONAGE. Atherton Belcher, James Smith, Rebecca Gay, Deborah Leonard and William Smith, five in all. With the organization of this class Stough- ton was added to the list of appointments on Mansfield and Easton circuit. In 1818 the membership had increased to forty, and a church building was erected in Factory village at a cost of $700. Stoughton continued an appointment on the Mansfield and 1 Easton circuit till 1834, when it became a station. In the same year it was determined to build a new house of worship in the centre of the town, where the present church property is finely located on Pleasant street. This building cost $2,200, and was dedicated September 23, 1835. The ser- mon was preached by Rev. Jefferson Hamilton of Boston. The text, Romans i, 16: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ." Rev. S. W. Coggeshall was pastor. The present church edifice was built in 1865 and 1866, during the pastorates of Rev. N. Bwn Centenary I., 166 Providence Asbury III., 147 Providence Broadway III., 150 Providence East Providence III., 162 Providence Hope St III., 166 Providence Chestnut St lit.. 154 Providence Cranston St III., 158 Providence Mathewson St III., 170 Providence Mt. Pleasant III., 178 Providence St. Paul's III., 181 Providence Swedish III., 199 Providence, Tabernacle, III., 185 Pro vidence Trinity III. , 188 Providence Wanskuck III., 238 Providence Washington Park III., 191 Putnam II., 140 Quarryville II., 143 Rockland Central III., 193 Rookland Hatherly III., 196 Rockville II., 146 Sagamore I., 173 Sandwich I., 176 Scituate III., 202 Somerset I.. 179 South Braintree III., 208 South Carver I., 182 South Coventry II., 150 PICTURES OF PASTORS AND ACTIVE MEMBERS OF CONFERENCE. Adams, D. W II., 213 Bartholomew. J. I II., 165 Adams, F. B II., 73 Bates, G. H II.. Ada.ms, J. Q II., 207 Bass, E. C III. 1 Alger, N. C III., 33 Beale, S. M III., 213 Allen, J. H III., 113 Bell, J. S I, 36 Allen, W. H III., 209 Benton, S. 6 1., 67 Anderson. F. C I., 180 Betts, Jacob II., 140 Ashley, D. G II., 57 Bigelow, N. D III., 197 Ayres, E. J IT., 132 Biram, Jas III., 49 Babcock, E. G III., 15 Blake, J. E I., 176 Baker, F. C II., 84 Blakeslee, F. D I.. XXII Baker, J. H II., 36 Braley, M. T II., 54 Baker, F. K.... III., 203 Bridgford, J. S III., 168 South Glastonbury II., South Harwich I., South Manchester II., South Middleboro I., South Somerset I., South Truro I., South Yarmouth I., Sterling- II., Stoughton III., Square Pond II., Stafford Springs II., Staff ordville H. . Taunton Central I., Taunton First I. , Taunton Grace I. , Taunton Tremont St I. , Thompsonville II., Tolland II., Truro I . . Uncasville II., Vernon II., Vineyard Haven I. , Voluntown . II., Wakefield III., Wanskuck Wapping II., Wareham I., Warehouse Point II., Warren III.. Washington III. , Wellfleet I., West Abington III., West Diennis I., West Duxbury I., Westerly II., West Falmouth I., Westport Point I., West Thompson II., Whitman I., Wickf ord III., Willington II. Willimantic II., Windsorville II., Woods Holl I.. Woonsocket . III., 154 184 158 189 192 198 202 215 212 170 164 173 207 213 218 222 176 206 22 180 212 228 184 217 .220 185 231 189 221 225 238 228 243 101 193 245 247 196 250 232 74 200 203 254 235 254 SOUVENIR HISTORY. Brightman, G. E III., 120 James, J. H I., 262 Bromley, C. B III., 95 Johnson, J. E II., 101 Brooks, F. L I., 239 Johnson, O. E I., 251 Brown, H. W III., 222 Johnson, S. F I., SO Butler, G. H III., 83 Jones, E. F I., 188 Butler, W. H III., 98 Kaufman, M. S III., 172 Buck, W. P I., 171 Kelly, W. J III., 55 Buckey, J. H III., 45 Kingsley, A. W III., 18 Cady, H. B III., 235 Klrkby. William I., 48 Ohase, B. A I., XV Kugler, W. E I., 132 Clark, E. F I., 160 Lockwood, C. A III., 178 Codding, L. B II., 87 Luce, W. A I., 214 Coleman, F. W II., 33 MacDonald, J. H I., 76 Cook, N. B I., 43 Martin, O. M L, 115 Cooper, Joseph II., 126 Massey, L. H I., 98 Cooper, J. F I., 129 Mclntire. W. S III., 182 Coultas, A. J III., 155 McVay, Join II., 10 Crabb., G. W II., 44 Melden. C. M III., 26 Critchlow, H. H I., 8 Millar, J. W. H L, 186 Cummings, S. S I., 261 Miller, Rennetts C III., 106 Curless, H. G I., 246 Moore, R. S III., 117 Davis, C. S III., 163 Morris, J. W III., 31 Davis, W. F III., 186 Murkett, PI. E II., 21 Docking, J. T I., 244 Newell, TV. C II., 181 Duxbury, J. E I., 229 Newland, J. H III., 42 Dyson, R. D II., 177 Nutting, J. H .....I., 260 Ela, Walter II., 19 Oldham, John II., 106 Eldredge, E. W I., 193 Patterson, J. N L, 122 Ellis, S. E I., 55 Pearce, John II., 6 Elmer, G. W II., 80 Phillips, E. E I., 174 Everett, T. J I., XLJI Phreaner, E. P II., 61 Ewer, C. H III., 232 Pitner, J. L II., HI Flocken, L. M I., 81 Povey, Richard II., 93 Follansbee, F. J III., 159 Purdy, C. A II., 152 Poster, W. S III., 75 Randall. J. O III., 151 Fowler, X. McKee I., 164 Ransom, Merrick II., 204 Fowles, G. M I., 154 Raynor, B. F II., 47 Gammons, J. G III., 6 Rich, J. A. L III., 147 Gardner, W. A II., 184 Richardson, Joseph II., 23 Geisler, J. N III., 142 Ridgway, H. A L, 72 Goodier, E. W II., 136 Robinson, H. D III., 126 Grose, R. C I., 14 Rook, S. J II., 186 Grant, Geo. A I., 109 Ruoff, C. W I., 146 Greer, Jerome I., 41 Rutter, J. O L, 17 Gurney, E. B I., 113 Sampson, E. J II., 197 Hambleton, W. J III., 86 Schuh, R. E I., 20 Hamlen, G. M I., 169 Sohuett, R. H I., 87 Hammond, E. S III., 92 Scott, O. W III., 38 Harris, E. C I., 166 Scudder, A. H L, 149 Hastings, G. H II., 103 Simon, B. F L, 220 Hatch, C. T L, 233 Sisson, G. A I., 142 Hawkins, J. E III., 218 Smith, Charles L, 185 Hazzard, Herbert II., 13 Smith, C. H III., 137 Heath, W. B III., 51 Smith, E. F II., 66 Hinckley, C. N I., 190 Smith, J. T. C III., 216 Hollingsliead, Joseph I., 51 Smith, W. J II., 194 Hood, W. Lenoir III., 132 Spear, F. H II., 29 Horton, L. G II., 201 Squires, L. E I., 222 House, D. C II., 165 Stenhouse, C. A I., 208 Hunt, E. A L, 182 Streeter, P. L, III., 193 Hunt, G. W III., 10 Studley, E. F III., 102 SOUVENIR HISTORY. 2 rr Taber, J. M HI., igg Wads worth, J. S II i 60 Taylor, C. H I., 126 Walter, C. H '" n " 190 Taylor, W. F i., 3 8 Ward, W. I '.'... Ill' 65 Terry, O. G II., 144 Washburn, J. B HI 200 Thomas, J. Elbert I., 93 Wllkins, R. M i" 60 Thomas, J. S II., 108 Wilkinson, W. D .......I.' 225 Thompson, G. O I., 151 Williams, C. H V.'.IIL, 78 Thompson, John I., 249 Williams, Edward I " 125 Thornblad, C. F III., 199 Wilson, M. B '. " j 90 Tregaskls, James I., 188 Wood, J. A ......II.,' I2i Utter, O. L i., 255 Woodward. W. D I 26 Van Natter, C. H II., 174 Yates, W. J II ' 148 Vlnton, P. M II., 51 Young, Herman '.'ill., 41 PICTURES OF THE SUPERANNUATE AND SUPERNUMERARY MEMBERS OF THE CONFERENCE. Anderson, G. W i., 5^ King, J. D I., 53 Banning, Carlos I., 70 Lamson, G. H I., 145 Benton, J. T I.. 70 Leavitt, D. P L, 70 Bosworth, B. K I., 70 Lyon, E. A .".i.| 53 Bray, W. McK I., 53 Morrison, W. V I., XVII Brown, D. L I., 53 Newell, E. F .'..I., 70 Burn, Richard I., 145 Patterson. S. T I.' 70 Cady, W. O I., 145 Sargent, F. D L, 145 Chase, S. B I., 53 Sheffield, J. F ...i', 53 Conant, H. W I., 145 Sherman, J. H L, 53 Dodge, J. O L, 272 Stanley, E. S I., 53 Dunham, L. E I., 53 Stearns, G. W L, 145 Edson, Edward I., 70 Talbot, Rev. M. J., I., XII; and III., 176 Fox, Samuel I., 70 Thompson, J. O I., 145 Hall, A. E I., 145 Turkington, William I.', 145 Hinckley, E. B I., 272 Whedon, D. A L, XXVII Hyde, E. L I., 145 Wise, Daniel I., 165 Hyde, W. P I., 70 DECEASED MEMBERS OF THE CONFERENCE. Alderman, M. P I., XVI Harlow. W. T L, XI Alvord, C. M I., 253 Hatfleld, E. H I., XVI Bates, Lewis L, 96 Haynes, Z. C III., 251 Bentley, D. N II., 105 Howson. John III., XVI Bentley, L. D I., XVI Kenney. P. T I., XI Benton, E I., XI Leader, S L, 253 Blood, L. W L, XI Livesey, John I., XVI Benton, Sanford III., XII Livesey. Richard I., XVI Bradford, E. B I., XVI Livesey, Wm I., XI Brewster, G. W I., XI Mather, James I., XI Brown. S. C I., XI McKeown, S L, XVI Chase, B. A I., XV Morse, C I., XV Coggeshall, S. W I., XVI Morse, Geo. A L, XVI Crandon, P I., 92 Palmer, A I., XI Cooper, John I., 272 Patten, D L, XI Daggett, Levi I., XI Phelps, B. C I., XVI Dunham, E. M III., 250 Puffer, Stephen III., 110 Ely, Thos I., XI Richards, W. H III., 223 Farrington, W. F III., 250 Rogers, D. M I., 272 Fifleld, Moses III., 48 Sayer, B. L III., 250 Gavitt, Franklin III., 250 Searles, A. N I., XVI Goodrich, N I., XV Seavey, A. W I., 253 Gurney, T. B I., 253 Smith, H. S I., XVI Hall, E. D I., XVI Stetson, W. H I., 272 Harlow, Lemuel I., 272 Titus, C. H I., XI 256 SOITENIR HISTORY. Townsend, P I., XI Winchester, Geo. H III., 251 Upham, Frederick I., % Wooding, Geo. W III., XVI Washburn. I I., XV Worcester, J. M I., 272 Webb, Daniel I., XVI PICTURES OF DISTINGUISHED METHODIST MINISTERS FORMERLY MEMBERS OF OUR CONFERENCE. Allyn, R. W III., 252 McChesney, Ensign I., 96 Bates, L. B I., 96 Nutter, C. S I., 46 Bidwell, Ira G III., 251 Payne, C. H I., 6 Binney, Amos I., 96 Pitblado, C. B L, 96 Canoll, Angelo I.. 272 Raymond, B. P I., 6 Chapman, J. A. M I., 46 Reed, Geo. E I., 6 Dorchester, Daniel I., 6 Stevens, Abel I., 165 Gallagher, C. W I., 46 Steele, W. F I., 6 Goodell, C. L L, 46 Taylor, E. M I., 46 Gracey, S. L I., 96 Taylor, E. T L, 96 Hamilton, J. B I., 272 Townsend, L. T I., 6 Hatfleld, R. M I., % Trafton, Mark I., 96 Haynes, E. J I., 46 Upham, S. F L, 6 Hutchinson, B. W I., 6 Wagner, F. J L, 6 Jordan, D. A I., 46 Whedon, D. D III., 251 Kimball, II. D I., 46 Whitaker, N. T I., 272 McDonald, William I., 46 Worth, W. T L, 46 SPECIAL, ARTICLES. Brockton Methodist Social Union.. III., 23 New Bedford Methodist Social Union. Conference Endorsement I., 274 1., 118 Conference Home Missions I.. XXVII Norwich District League II., 216 Conference Resolutions, (Conf. Ed.).. Nutting-, J. H., and His Work I., 259 II., XII Pastoral Record II., 236 Cummings, S. S., and His Work.. I., 261 Providence Deaconess Home I., XXXI East Greenwich Academy I., XXI Providence District Epworth League.. Editor's Introduction I., IX III., 2 Fall River Deaconess Home I., XXXV Providence Social Union III., 145 Hamlen, G. M., and His Work Statistical Report 50 years ago (Conf. Historical Sketch of Conference, by Ed.) Ill, XIII Dr. M. J. Talbot I., XII Superannuates and Supernumeraries Introduction to Vol. II., by Rev. G. Biographical Sketches I., 264 H. Bates II., IX Taunton Methodist Social Union...!., 204 Introduction to Vol. III., by Dr. E. Willimantic Camp Meeting II., 2 C. Bass III., IX Woman's Foreign Missionary Society. James, J. H., and His Work I., 261 1., 257 Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting.I., XVII \Voman's Home Missionary Society.. Martha's Vineyard Revival....!., XXXIX I., XXIX SPECIAL PICTURES. Bishops I-. II Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting- East Greenwich Academy Cottage present Auditorium I.. XXI Ill, 111 Map of Conference I, I East Greenwich Academy Faculty Nantasket Beach III., 109 I., XXIII Old Oaken Bucket III.. 206 East Greenwich Academy Students.. Perkins, Alba II., 3 I., XXVI Presiding Elders I., 273 Everett, Mrs. T. J L, XXIX Presiding Elders, (deceased) I., XI Fall River Deaconesses I., XXXVII Providence Deaconesses I.. XXXII Fall River Deaconess Home I., XXXV Providence Deaconess Home...!., XXXI Farnham, J. E. C HI., 145 Raymond, R. F I. 118 Flint, John D I., XXXVI Willimantic Camp Meeting, Cartwright Gardner, Mrs. Harmony II., 139 Avenue II., 2 Lippitt, Norris G III., XII Willimantic Camp Meeting, tent on Local Preachers I., 263 Wesley Circle II., 3 Local Preacher, Baker, P. M III., 221 Yarmouth Camp Meeting, Tabernacle Local Preacher, Fischer, J. E III., 233 1., 237 Local Preacher, Keith, W. E II., 161 Yarmouth Camp Meeting Interior of Local Preacher, Lincoln, G. W...IIL, 252 Tabernacle I., 3 Local Preacher, Messenger, F. M...II..104 Yarmouth Camp Meeting Railroad Local Preacher, Thurston, J. F I., 174 Park I., 217 Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting Yarmouth Camp Meeting Hanover 50 years ago L, XVIII, XIX, XX Square I., 3 Columbias Set the Pace for the World in < Beauty, Strength and Speed. 1897 MODELS HARTFORD BICYCLES, $50, $45, $40. POPE MFG. CO., Hartford, Conn. If Columbias are not properly repre EAT5 TT1E EART senled in your vicinity, let us know. Facts vs. Theories Were it practical to test the efficiency of the different Heaters side by side, like engines at a fire, the "WINTHROP" HOT WATER HEATER would need no further advertising. To go further than this : Could the respective coal bills resulting from a six months' competition, under exactly the same conditions, be submitted to the householders' notice, there would be another advertisement for the " WINTHROP." A FURNACE FACT is something that is actually accomplished. A FURNACE THEORY is something that will be accomplished \l the experiment is successful. "Winthrop Hot Water Heaters are built on facts. What the purchaser of a Heater wants is heat quick heat -and plenty of it not theories. In the first place the cost of install- ing the service is reduced to a minimum. The " WINTHROP" will dis- charge hot water almost immediately because, unlike the other heaters, it is unnecessary to gradually heat the entire system. When once under way the evenness of the heat is governed by the central draft this, too, is no theory. Then there are the return flue, the vertical circulation and the angle of exposure to the fire three exclusive features of the " WIN- THROP" which are beyond the point of experiment. If we were to tell you that the "WIXTHROP" HOT WATER HEATER SHOULD beat your house of five or six rooms comfortably at less cost for fuel than a parlor stove requires to heat two rooms, it would be a theory. We do more than that and say that it WILL! The techni- cal points wfhich combine to produce this result will be of interest to you. Send your address and it comes free, together with any estimate which you may call for. DIGHTON FURNACE CO., NORTH DIGHTON OR TAUNTON, MASS. Put Your Finger on this name GLENWOOD It expresses to the New England housewife her ideal of a kitchen helper. The range that MakeS Cooking E ft $ ft ft i it Just As True of the heaters as with the range. They a the standard of excellence both in finish ai construction. So strikingly convenient and ea to manage that bright people will have nothii else. Don't buy a range or heater till you see th< GLENWOOD The Glenwood agent in your town has them, or write . Weir Stove Company, Taunton, Mass. Whose Piano are you going to buy? BEFORE DECIDING, EXAMINE THE NEW ENGLAND PIANO. Kind Words for the NEW ENGLAND PIANO. WP From MADAME NORDICA, The World-renowned Cantatrice. Mf To THE NEW ENGLAND PIANO Co. : It gives me pleasure to tell you that during my stay in Boston this season I have enjoyed the use of one of your semi- grand Pianos, which I consider one of the best for accompanying the voice; its tone being so mellow and blending perfectly with the voice. Most truly, LILLIAN NORDICA. MADAME NORDICA. OVER 75,OOO NEW ENGLAND PIANOS IN DAILY USE, SHOWS HOW THEY ARE REGARDED BY THE PURCHASING PUBLIC. MYRON W. WHITNEY. Kind Words for the NEW ENGLAND PIANO. ** From MYRON W. WHITNEY, The World's Greatest Basso. M GARDINER, ME., June 6, 1890. I wish to express my admiration for the BABY GRAND NEW ENGLAND PIANO which we used at concert last night. It was perfectly satisfactory, both in tone and power. I wish you much success with them. Sincerely yours, MYRON W. WHITNEY. Low Prices. Easy Payments. TO RENT BY DAY, WEEK, MONTH OR YEAR. NEW ENGLAND PIANO CO. Boston Warehouse, 601 Washington Street. WE are just about entering on the Sixtieth year of our business career During this time, over 17,000 of our Pianos have been placed in the homes of the very best musical people in and about Boston. These Pianos are endorsed by such musicians of national fame as JOHN K. PAINE, CARL ZERRAHN, T. ADAMOWSKI, Dr. A. P. PEABODY, and Mrs. MARTHA DANA SHEPARD. They always have been and will continue to be honest Pianos at honest prices. Our Factory and Warerooms are combined, and thus we are enabled to offer our goods at the lowest possible cost. Only the best material is used and the most skilled workmen employed. Call upon us for further information, or write us. A. M. HcPHAIL PIANO CO., 786 Washington Street, opposite Hollis, BOSTON.** CHENEY BROTHERS, T*T-0 I c 1 1 = O 1 L^ MANUFACTURERS. NULLS: HARTFORD and SOUTH MANCHESTER, CONN. Salesrooms : NEW YORK, 477 Broome Street. BOSTON, 79 Chauncy Street. CHICAGO, 239 Fifth Avenue. Pongees and Florentines: Plain, Figured and Printed, for Dress Goods and Decorative purposes. Satins, Twills and Armures: Printed and Solid Colors. Black and Colored Gros Grains and Taffetas. Velvets and Plushes. Upholstering Materials, Drapery Fabrics and Curtains. GROS GRAIN, SATIN AND FANCY. Trams, Organzines and Fine=Spun Silks, FOR MANUFACTURERS' USE. SILKS FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES TO ORDER. ESTABLISHED 1838. INCORPORATED 1854. TYPEWRITERS^ OF ALL MAKES SOLD, EXCHANGED, AND REPAIRED. TYPEWRITERS RENTED 75 GENTS PER WEEK. D O you know that a Typewriter will save you time, make you money, and please your correspondents ? TOWER'S NEW FRANKLIN TYPEWRITER PRICE $75.00 is a first-class Typewriter at reasonable price. It is the simplest, lightest, easiest running, fastest, and most durable Type- writer made. On the majority of other high-grade machines the carriage has to be lifted before the work can be seen. On the New Franklin the work is in sight from the time the first letter is written until the paper is removed from the Typewriter. The Editor of this History uses the Franklin and is highly pleased with it. For illustrated catalogue and full particulars write to CUTTER TOWER CO., i2A Milk Street, Boston, Mass. Established 1845. cif&n tin /sun HOISE-ST VAI^UE, Embody best materials and construction, and are known the world over for their HONEST VALUE. H. A, LOZIER & CO,, CLEVELAND, OHIO. Send for Catalog. BRANCHES: New York, Philadelphia, Boston, San Francisco, Toronto, London, Paris, Hamburg. FACTORIES : Toledo, Ohio, Thompson ville, Conn., Westfleld, Mass., Toronto Junction, Ontario. THE PRUDENTIAL INSURANCE CO. INSURES EVERY MEMBER OF A FAMILY, Issuing policies ranging from five cents per week to one of $50,000.00. Assets nearly $20,000,000.00. For full particulars address C. C. FERRIS, Supt., Jtjt 1371 Washington Street, Boston, Mass. THOSE FAMOUS "BLYMYER" BELLS. UNLIKE OTHER BELLS. RICHER, SWEETER, MORE DURABLE, AND LOWER PRICED. Our Free Catalogue tells why. THE CINCINNATI BELL FOUNDRY CO. SOLE MANUFACTURERS, CINCINNATI, - - - OHIO. F. J. BHRNHRD S CO, (The Binders of this book) SUCCESSORS TO J. G. ROBERTS & CO., Established 1821. KBINBCRS For over 135 Public Libraries. Clergyman's work and S. S. Libraries' specialties. Also Albums manufactured to order. Old books restored to preserve antique appearance. A II Kinds of Bindings. 17 PROVINCE ST., from 40 School, BOSTON, MASS. Freight Elevator, 10 Chapman Place. DESIGNERS AND MAKERS OF Fine Half-Tone and Zinc Plates* SPECIAL FACILITIES FOR MAKING CATALOGUE, MAGAZINE, BOOK AND NEWSPAPER ...LOW PRICES. QUICK SERVICE... Estimates cheerfully furnished. PROMPT ATTENTION TO OUT-OF-TOWN ORDERS. From the " Boston Budget " of April 4, J897, (The Grand Opera Number.) (UNSOLICITED.) The half-tone work of this issue of the BUDGET was largely done by the Amer- ican Engraving Company, who are rapidly growing into favor with the best houses of Boston through their efficient and con- scientious work. The half-tones which are distributed throughout this paper to-day are of a high order, and reflect unusual credit upon this engraving house. No. 295 Washington Street, BOSTON, MASS. Wanted: Old Books COMPLETE LIBRARIES OR SMALL LOTS We make a business of buying old books, bibles, novels and almanacs or new books which you may have read and don't care to keep. We have the largest book and stationery house in this section and would be pleased to serve you. Our Branch Store contains over 25,000 books. HENRY R. JOHNSON, Springfield, Mass. 1DRESS GOODStx> These interest every lady, and our Dress Goods stock is most complete. We make a specialty of "black dress goods and can give you special values for your money. Satisfaction guaranteed or money refunded. DAY1SON, YORK & CO., 750 MAIN STREET, WILLIMANTIC, CONN. Ask your Stationer for goods manufactured by EAST HARTFORD MFG. CO. BURNSIDE, CONN, Large T H. R. WOODWARD, 163 MAIN STREET, NORWICH, CONN. Business Established in 1877. The store is known as the star jewelry store. Please return any goods not proving as represented as all goods are warranted. A. C BEAL & CO. PRINTERS 109 Purchase St* t Boston. Book and Magazine Composition Job Printing We make a specialty of Advertising Pages. Work: Riglit Prices Rio-hit. -SEND FOR ESTIMATES ON JOB PRINTING.*- LECTURES AND ADDRESSES By Rev. Rennetts C. Miller, I. Providential America. A Christian patriotic lecture. II* The Second Emancipation. A Gospel temperance lecture. ill* Great Life Lessons from Columbus. An address for young people. JV Christian Enthusiasm. An address for Christians, young and old. V. A Vision of the 20th Century. A lecture of general interest to all classes. VI. Oliver Wendell Holmes. Poet, Novelist and Humorist A literary lecture. Mr. Miller enjoyed a long interview with Dr. Holmes only a few months before his death, in which they discussed a wide range of subjects literary, scientific, and theological some of which Holmes is almost silent upon in his writings. Mr. Miller has also made a careful study of Holmes' life and writ Ings. The result of this study and interview are set forth in this lecture. For Daies and Terms address Rev. RENNETTS C. MILLER, .* Nantaskct, Mass. THE LIBRARY UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA Santa Barbara THIS BOOK IS DUE ON THE LAST DATE STAMPED BELOW. Series 9482 UC SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY