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S223^|
OP THE
THIRTIETH ANNIVERSARY
OFTIIE
BAPTIST CONVENTION OF ALA,
HELD AT
CSLtf A, DALLAS OOUNTT,
DECEMBER 3, 4, 5, AND 6, 1853 ;
AND OF THE
ALABAMA BAVV HOT &E1S1L& B0ODEV7
HELD AT THE SAME TIME AND PEACE.
TUSKEGEE, Aia:
PRINTED AT THE OFFICE OF THE S. W. BAPTIST.
1854.
OFFICERS OF THE CONVENTION:
IT. Tai.dird, President, Win. P. Chilton, Is* Vict P. M. T. Jkwktt, 2nd " P.
P. TT. Lundy, Pec. Sec'y, J. II. Dkvotie, Cor. Scc'y, S. II. Fowlkeb, Treasurer.
A. G. McCraw, Wm. Horn buckle, J. T. Barron, A. B. Goodhue,
11. HOLMAN,
Directors:
J. P. Baii.ky, W. N. Wyatt, J. W. Garrett, W. T. Uendon.
Board of Trustees of Howard College:
Rev. Jas II. Devotie, lion. J. P. Cooke, J. Billinoslka, Hon. W. W Mason, C. Billinoslka, M. D., Rev. A. G. McCraw, W. N. Wyatt, Rov. II. Tai.dird,
Enoch Fauan,
Dr. 0. L. Shivers, (Jen. Edwin 1). Kino, .T. F. Bxn.Br,
T. J.BaKHON,
Dr. L. B. Lank, llou. W. P. Chilton.
Trustees of the Judson Female Institute:
Gen. Edwin D. Kino, Saml. Fowlkes, Esq., Lanuston Goree, Esq., James L. Gorxe, Esq.,
Larkin Y. Tarrant, Esq., John Lockiiart, Esq., Wm. N. Wyatt, Eea.,
Wll. IIORNDUCKLE, Esq.
>
OF TOE
BAPTIST STATE CONVENTION OF ALABAMA, FOR 1853.
Tho Convention mot in the Meeting House of the Baptist Church in the city of Sblma, Ala., at 11 o'clock A. M., on Sat- urday, Dec. 3d. 1853.
After reading a portion of the Scriptures, and prayer being offered by Hcv. Henry Talbird, I). J)., letters from tho fol- lowing bodies were read and the delegates took their scats, viz:
ASSOCIATIONS:
Alabama — W. B. Haralson, I. T. Tichenor, P. H. Lundy, P. Peebles, W. W. Hardy, S. Frederick, Lewis Johnston.
Autauga — J. I. Lamar, A. Andrews, J. Lamar, J. Nunn, P. Lamar, J. II. Burns, A. B. Hughes.
Caiiaha— J. O. Huekabcc, Alfred Mucklc, W. Wilkes.
Canaan — John T. Cain, J. H. Baker, N. Haggard.
Coosa River— J. A. Collins, James Hcadcn, Walker Rey- nolds, J. L. M. Curry, William Curry.
ItoEE— W. Howard, E. B. Teaguc.
Bethlehem — F. Stxaughan, W. C. Morrow.
Bethel — John Talbot, J. Rives, A. A. Connclla.
Liiekty (East) — Jefferson Falkncr.
Salem— W. II. Mcintosh, J. T. S. Park.
Turkeoee — S. Henderson, A. J. Battle, J. M. Newman, J.M. Watt, J. F. Hootcn.
Pine Barren — K. Hawthorn, E. E. Kirvin, C. W. Hare.
Little Higbee River — W. Howard, E. B. Tcaguo.
West Florida — Funds.
Cherokee—- Funds. * Tuscaloosa— Funds.
CHURCHES.
Bethany (Lowndes co.)— P. II. Lundy, W. B. Haralson, John Haralson.
Talladega (Talladega co.)— 0. Welch, W. Reynolds, L. W. Lawlcr, Jasper Wilson.
Newbern— B. Holinan, J. C. Curry.
Centre Ridge— C. F. Sturgis R. P. Lide, Joseph Lide, C. B. Watts.
Benton — James Brasier.
Providence (Dallas co.)— A. W. Berry, John A. Norwood.
SBLMA— W. Wilkes, John Wilmcr, J. E. Prcstidge, F. M. Uw, Wiley Melton.
Salem— R, Holinan.
Siiiloii (Dallas oo) William Johnston, W. C. Cleveland, M. 8. Cleveland. • Asu Creek— J. 0. Miller. Liberty (Dallas co.) — James M. Lamar. Concord — J. It. Reeves.
Sii.oam —A. B. Goodhue, J. P. Bailey, T. J. Barron, M. P, Jcwctt, Samuel •Frcoiuasi.
Bethf.sda (Chamlicrs co.) — Jcflbreon Falkncr. Spring Hill — A. A. Conncllo, L. B. Lane. Montgomery— I. T. Tichcnor, A. Williams, A. B. McWhor- tcr. B. B. Davis. Wetumpka— I). It. W. Mclvep. IIOCK WEST — Iv. Hawthorn. County Link — E. E. Kirvin. Hopewell — S. It. Freeman, D. S. Hoguc. Mount Pleasant — John S. Ford. Cahaba— J.T. Allen. Bethel (Green co.) — J. S. Abbott. Providence (Sumpter) — Funds. Tuscaloosa — Funds. Liberty Church — .James M. Lenoir. St. Francis St. (Mobile) — T. G. Kecnc. . Union Town — Funds. Fellowship — Funds.
OTHER BODIES. Ladies' Society of Providence Church — E. B. Tea<rue, Contributors to the Missionary Box at Collirene— 1\ II. Imndy, Win, Thiuin.
Jitdson Female Institute Missionary Society— M. P. Jcwctt.
Gainesville Female Missionary Society — W. 7/oward. Blountsville 7/ome Missionary Society — W. JUialcy. LIFE MEMBERS. M. P. Jewett, C. II. Cleveland, David Gordon, A. G. McCraw, W. A. Melton. W. N. Wyatt, II. Talbird, J. B. Nave, Edmund Kim:. James II. Dcvottc, Thomas Barlow.
CORRESPONDING BODIES.
Board of Foreign Missions Southern Baptist Conven- tion—J. B. Taylor. Cor. Sec, W. II. (Hark.
Board of Domestic Missions, Southern Baptist Conven- tion— Joseph Walker Cor. Sec, J. L. Shuck.
Southern Baptist Publication Society — D. G. Daniel.
Mississippi Baptist State Convention — A. Van IIoosc. RECAPITULATION.
There were 'represented in Convention, 1G Associations, 29 Churches, 5 other bodies, 4 corresponding bodies. Compared with lost year there were 1 Association and 5 Churches more, and of other bodies one less. Corresponding bodies the same.
The Convention was then fully organized by the election of officers.
Rev. [IBNBY TaLBIBT), H. P., of Marion, was elected Presi- dent. Rev. I\ II. Lundy, Secretary, and Rev. .J. M. Watt, Assistant Secretary.
A letter enclosing 60418-100 dollars from Bro. "William Jenkins, Sen., was read and ordered to l>e printed in the mi- nines. | See Appendix A.]
The Pastor and Deacons of Sclma Church, with brethren J. F. Rally, and Morgan Cleveland, were appointed a Committco on tlie religious services of the Convention.
The following brethren were appointed a Committee to nom- inate the remaining officers of the Convention, viz: A. A. Connella, A. P>. Goodhue, and J. I). William.*.
Ministers not members of the Convention, were invited to se:<ts in the same.
Adjourned until 2 1-2 oclock, P. M.
Saturday, 2 1-2 oclock, I\ M. Met according to adjournment.
The following brethren were appointed a committee on Fi- nance: J. M.Newman, W. N. Wyatt, and L 1>. Lane.
STAN DIN G C OM MITTEES.
The President announced the following Committees to re- port during the present session:
On thk Statu op Religion — D. Peebles, J. S. Ford, and W. U. Ilamtou.
On Lettkus and Documents — 0. Welch, J. Fulkncr, and J. 11. Devotic.
On Periodicals— I. T. Tichcnor, A. J. Battle and W. Howard.
The x\!id of the Methodist and Presbyterian houses' of wor- ship were kindly tendered to the Convention during the sit- ting of the same: and the oiler was thankfully accepted.
The Report ot the Committee on Temperance, was read and adopted. [Sec Appendix B.J
Brethren S. Henderson, M. P. Jewett, and C. F. Stnrgis were appointed a special Committee to draft a memorial upon the License system to be presented to the Legislature of Ala- bama during the present Session.
The following persons Mere appointed to represent this body, in the Temperance Convention to be held in Montgomery on Wednesday, January 5, 1854, viz: S. Henderson, 0. Welch, W. B. Haralson, W. Wilkes, John Winner, David Gordon, A. G. McCraw, J. D. Williams, K. Hawthorn. J. II. Devo- tie, K. L. Haralson, J. M. Watt, P. H. Lundy, W. P. Chilton, I. T. Tichcnor, D. Peebles, I). It. W. Mclvcr, and A. B. McWhorter.
The Report of the Trustees of the Judson Fcmalo Institute,
was road ami referred to the Committee on Education. [Ap- pendix C]
Appointed the next meeting of this Convention to tic held with the Siloam Church in the town of Marion, on Friday before tho second Lord's day in December, 1854.
Appointed Corrc8|>ondiiij! Delegates, to the Ccorfria Bap- tist State Convention, to be held in the town of Washington, Wilkes County, on Saturday before tho fourth Lord's (lay in Aj.ril, 1851, viz: P. II. Lundy, W. Wilkes, C. F. Sturgis, ]). Gordon, Joseph Walker and C. Battle.
To the Mississippi Baptist State Convention, Joseph Walker.
The Committee on Religious Services reported the follow- ing order of exercises for to-night and to-morrow.
Anniversary Sermon, on Saturday night, 7 o'clock, by Rev. Joseph Walker.
Missionary Seumon, at 11 o'clock on Sabbath, by Rev. J. L. Shuck.
Bible Srrmon', at 7 o'clock, P. M., on Sabbath, by Rev. J. II. Dcvotic.
The above named discourses to be delivered at the Baptist Church ; and a Mass Missionary Meeting to be held at tho same place at 3 o'clock, on Sabbath afternoon.
At the Presbyterian Church, at 11 o'clock, A. M., on Sab- bath, a sermon by Rev. E. 15. Tcaguc, and at 7 o'clock, P. M. a sermon by Rev. W. Howard.
At the Methodist Church, at 11 o'clock. A.M., on Sabbath, a sermon by Rev. I. T. Tichenor ; and at 7 o'clock, P. M., a sermon by Rev. S. Henderson.
To the Colored people, in the basement of the Presbyterian Church at 3 o'clock, P. M., on Sabbath, a sermon by Rev. R. Hoiman : nt the Methodist Church at the same hour, a sermon by Rev. .). S* Ford.
Adjourned until 7 o'clock in the evening. Closing prayer by Brother M. P* Jcwctt.
3
7 o'clock, p. m. Met at the Baptist Church, when the Anniversary Discourse was delivered by Rev. Joseph Walker according to appoint- ment, the brethren who were appointed last year, having failed to arrive in time. The sermon was delivered to a largo audience and was well adapted to the occasion. At the close of the services, the Convention adjourned to meet at 9 o'clock on Monday morning.
Lord's Day, December 4.
The services of the day were all performed according to tho
appointments of the Committee announced on yesterday. Tho.
congregations were large and attentive, and the ministers
who preached labored as good stewards of Cod. The Masfl
Missionary Mooting was well attended, and interesting ad- dresses were delivered by brethren II. Talbird, J. Walker,
W. IT. Clark, and T. C. ICccnc, after which a collection was taken in behalf of Missions.
At night the Alabama Baptist Bible Society, held its annual meeting. The Anniversary Sermon was delivered by Rev. J. II. Devotie; after which the Society held its meeting. — The minutes of which will be found in connection with the minutes of this Convention.
Monday Morning, 0 o'clock, [ December 5, 1854, j
The Convention met. Prayer by Bro. 0. Welch.
The Minutes were read and adopted.
On motion Rev. James B. Taylor, Corresponding Secreta- ry of the Foreign Mission Board, was invited to address the Convention at-3 1-2 o'clock, I*. M.
The report of the Board of Directors was read and adopt- ed. | see Appendix P.]
The report of Rev. D. 1*. Bcstor, Agent for Howard Col- lege, was, upon motion, referred to the Hoard of Trustees.
The Board of Trustees of "The Society for the relief of the families of deceased and superannuated Ministers," crea- ted at a former session of this body, made their report through Dr. A. B. MoWhortcr. The report was re-commit- ted and the committee enlarged by the addition of brethren M. P. Jcwctt, C. P. Sturgis, S. Henderson and T. G. Kecno.
Adjourned until 2 1-2 o'clock, p. m.
2 1-2 o'clock.
The Convention met for business.
The following brethren were appointed a eommittco on claims, to whom was referred the report of the Treasurer : J. F. Bailey, D. Gordon, and A. G. McCraw.
Appointed J. P. Bailey, It. Ilolman, and J. S. Ford a com- mittee to nominate preachers for the next Convention.
The report of the committee appointed to submit a plan for rendering permanent aid to the beneficiaries of Howard Col- lege, was read and adopted, [ Appeddix E.]
The committee on Domestic Missions made their report, which was also adopted, [Appendix P.]
The committee on Sabbath Schools read their report which was adopted, [Appendix G.]
The committee on the State of Religion made their report which was adopted, [Appendix IT.]
The committee on Foreign Missions offered their n?port, and after interesting remarks from brethren J. B. Tavlor, Cor. Sec., of the Foreign Mission Board, and W. 11. Clark, Missionary elect, to Central Africa, it was adopted, [Appen« dixL]
The committee to nominate tho remaining officer* of tlio Convention mude their report which was concurred in, [Ap- pendix J. |
The report of the committee to draft a memorial to the Legislature, was road and adopted, [Appendix K.]
Adjourned until Tuesday Morning, 9 o'clock. Prayer by Bro. S. Henderson.
The sermon on Education was delivered on Monday night by Row C. F.Sturgis.
Tuesday Morning, *.) o'clock, ) Dee. (i, 1854. J
The Convention met. Prayer by Bro. O. Welch.
The following persons wcro appointed Corresponding Mcs- scnirers to the Associations in this State, viz :
To Jllabama—C. F.Stnr-ris. If. Talbird, 1'. II. Lundy ;
To Jlutauga—Y). It. W. Mclvcr, C. F. Sturgis;
To Bfthd—X. A. Connella, M. I}. Clement, J). Peebles;
To Bethlehem — W. C. .Morrow. K. Hawthorn ;
To Central— J. D. Williams, W. Wilkes ;
To Cahaba — H. Ilolman, L. L. Fox ;
To Canaan— A.. I. Waldrop, J. A.Collins, LI. E.Taliafer- ro;
To Cforoker—\V. C. Mynatt, W. C. Harris;
To Coosa River— il. F. Taliaferro, J. J). Wiliams, 0. Welch ;
To Judson — n. 0. McClendon, S. Henderson ; To Liberty West — S. II. Freeman, E. B. Tcogue ;
To Liberty North--.]. II. Devotie, II. F. Taliaferro ;
To Liberty East — T. (I. Freeman, A. Williams;
To Little liighec River— D. P. Bcstor, It. Ilolman, M. B. Clement ;
To Muscle Shoals — A. P. Musgrovc, Jos. Walker ;
To North River- ,). H. Foster, J. C. Foster ;
To Pine Barren — C. W. Hare, C. P. Sturgia ;
To Salem — W. II. Mcintosh, S. Henderson :
To TaUassehatrhie — J. A. Collins, H. 0. Jenkins; .
To Tuskegee — S. Henderson, I. T. Tichenor :
To Tuskaloosa — J. 11. Foster, Win, Howard ;
To Shelby— 0. Welch. II. F. Taliaferro ;
To Uiiion — M. Lyon, B. Manly, Sen.
Which was adopted.
The committee on Letters and Documents state that they find nothing to report.
The report of the committee on Periodicals was submitted and laid upon the table for the present.
The report of the committee on Education was offered, and after interesting addresses from a number of brethren, was adopted, [Appendix L.]
0
Whereupon t ho Rev. Saml. Henderson was unanimously elected to act as ajjent for collecting funds for Howard Col- lege. On motion liis salary was fixed at $1600 per annum, to he raised by private subscription. A subseription was opened and several hundred dollars subscribed to the object. Bro. Jl. asked Cor a short time to consider tho question.*
Adjourned until 2 1-2 o'clock, P. M.
2 1-2 o'clock, p. m.
The Convention met for business.
The following brethren were appointed a committee to nominate the Trustees of Howard College for the ensuing year, viz: S. Henderson. M. P. Jowett, and W. II. Mcintosh.
The report of the 'Trustees of Howard College was read and adopted, [Appendix M.|
The Committee on Finance mnde their report. It was re- ferred to the committee on claims for auditing.
The resignation of brother Win, Hornbuckle, as trustee of Howard College was accepted.
The Committee on the Southern Baptist Publication Socie- ty, made their report which was adopted, [Appendix X.]
Resolved, that during the Sessions of this body in future, tho Alabama Baptist Bible Society shall have Monday afternoon, for the transaction of its business.
Adjourned until 7 o'clock, P. M.
V o'clock, p. m.
The Convention wase ailed to order by the President.
The President announced the following standing commit- tees to report at the next session of this body :
On Temperance-—!. T. Tichenor, A. B. MoWhorter, D. R. W. Melver.
On Education— Vf. II. Mcintosh, A.J. Battle, J. F. Hooten
On Domestic Missions— D. R. W. Melver, J. I). Williams, K. 13. Davis.
On foreign Missions— C. F. Sturgis, E. E. Kirvin, R. P. Lido.
On Sabbath Schools— -Win. Howard, J. S. Abbot, E. B. league.
O/i Southern Baptist Publication Society — P II . Lundy, Morgan Cleveland, 1). PoebVs.
On Indian Missions — A. A. Connclla, J. II. Pcvotic, S. a. Freeman.
On the Condition of the Baptist. Denomination in cities and large towns— T. 0. Keene, I. T. Tichenor. Joseph Walker.
The committee to nominate Trustees for Howard College, reported the following names. The report was adopted, und the appointment of the following brethren, confirmed.
* ITc lm since declined tho appointment, (Secretary.) 2
10
J. F. Bailey. T. J. Barron i n i II. Tolbird ; and J. B& fa tt/ff ^ P" Chi,ton buckle resigned. n IB thc I,,uco of Wm. Horn
Tlio committee on Period ion la n.n.in *i • read and after nnder^omo KS&'SS *«* •• brethren was adopted. [Appendix 01 g *,0Wfl a,,10,1&
Hie consideration of the ronnrf '«r"ii t^ •. mitteewas resumed, so £i ft £j* S°fhEduca«pnal com- an Agontfor Howard Collcce ft J„ ? aPI*»ntmcnt of
who Stall he appointed b emstru c d Tl I*" *•■**
possible, the two plans si est ed bv I 7 ' M far m
motion was adopted. It wS forthelore ^^ W,,ich
Resolved, That a circular he addressed hv H « this convention to the various bod n«7, } ,1C ofucersof
circular it shall he stated wha h , T*"^ lfc Jn *»»'<* mentof Howard Co fe£ and t^? f °nc !°r 1,,c endow cessityof their ^"Si^l*"** then.
ai!eK^^^
pendix, P.] J ' waa ollcj cd a»d adopted. [Aj>
was concurred in }" reP°rtcd ■■ lo,,°"«, which report
LunSUK.^"' *'-V * * T«*<* - Eutaw, P. II.
3%e Education Sermon by A Willlnm> ^r Ar i J. Battle, Alternate. ' of 3r°ntffomcry, A.
^rtRordr^si^?mmitte° °n thc Institution for thc
f^ffies,LSlor andSr?^ ?**tiat Minis^ the following coinmittcewfl^n "° ,0,n adoPtod« whereupon, of Trustees tor ffi^Ttfan^I%Bg^ a W
Connclla, and J. JI. l)0Votie TkI ' ■ ilc,lonor. A. A. for a time reported the SSL committee after retiring
W. W. W^0?PUbSS B r wilttH' W" P- VandiTere, and A. J. Picket. l ' A' ^ McW«ortcr, H. W. Watson,
Thc above named board nf t , any vacancies which inav nl f ' ff0? WCrc authorized to fill „ The Auditing ComSno "! ' ic'lr own bo(1>'- Financial CommU^wh^S°rSd l'1™ thc KWof the ted. [Appendix 2 ] | ' wacrcuP°n «"> latter report was ado^
H^^%J?™' Mother W. N. Wyattwas
" was OfSS^fr^^.thefunds to that officer.
ww, that the funds m hand to be applied to
11
the different Societies, be turned over to the proper officers of those societies who may bo present.
Resolved, That the Bible funds of the Alabama Baptist Bible Society be freed from paying its pro rata share of printing tho minutes.
Ordered, That tho sum of ninety dollars be appropriated to pay for tho printing of minutes, and that the Secretary be paid forty dollars for his services.
Resolved, That tho thanks of this Convention be cordially presented to those citizens of this city, who havo extended so liberal a hospitality to the delegates and visitors during tho Session.
Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention bo tendered to the Churches of Sclma, which have given us the use of their houses of worship during tho Session.
Resolved, That the unfinished business of this Convention be referred to tho Board of Directors for its completion.
The Convention then adjourned to meet again in Session in the town of Marion, Perry County, on Friday before the 2d. Lord's day in December, 1854.
A parting hymn was sung, tho parting hand extonded and devout prayer offered to God, and tho delegates returned to their homes.
IIENRY TALBIRD, President.
P. H. Lundy, Sec'y.
J. M. Watt, Mt. Secy.
[A.]
MARDIpVIM.lt, Alft., Oct. 15, 1853. To (he Pmuknt ami Members of t'tc Alabama Baptiti State Convention. '
I>K\it ItRKTHRRN :— I here send enclosed n clink on one of the Hanks of Now York. Ibr gtitVi. 1*. which I wish disposed of an follows : &200 for the benefit of the Creek Indians ; S100 to assist in educating a native preacher of said nation of Indians, one that can eomo recommended lit brother Buck, kkr the Missionary in said natiou ; Slot) to assist young men preparing for the ministry in Howard College; 8W0 to assist in Pending a prenehcr to preach to the colored peopjc in the most destitute parts of this State, and the balance, 8104 18 to assist in sending the Bible. where it is most needed.
Yours with a sincere prayer for the success of all your labors and en- gagements. \vm. JENKINS, Bun.
iteport on Temperance.
Your Committee on Temperance respectfully submit:— That th« Temper- nnce cause has assumed, within a few voars, an 'importance in all parts of our Country, that cannot fail of being highly gratifying to nil true Philanthrop- ists. Several States have enacted law's similar in their character and exe- cution no the Maine law, whilst others have adopted u variety of measures less stringent it is true, but yet well calculated to prepare the public mind lor I'otal Prohibition.
There is perhaps a majority of the well informed among us who have s.r- rived at the settled conviction, that the only remedy for the evils of intem- perance is in legal enactments that shall so iestrict the manufacture and sale
ii J?P,ntu0U8 liquurs, except Ibr Medicinal or Sacramental purposes, as will effectually do away with the present license system.
And it is gratifying to observe that the matter" is regarded not only in a moral point of view, but as a necessary political reform oil the score of public economy. The statistics of our State' would undoubtedly show, that at least one halt the Taxes paid for County purposes is expended in the urrcst, trial, &C,, of those who have been led to the commission ot crimes through the use ol intoxicating drinks. The Convention held in November last, adopted tho tlratt of a bill, commonly called the "Alabama Lav" and united in petition- ing the legislature to enact the same, or such a substitute as might, in its wisdom, be. calculated to achieve the desired results. The May Convention passed various Resolutions to aid in its pussagi — Committees were appoint- ed to solicit Ministers of the Gospel, Instructors of vouth, Physicians, I-ndics, and the voters of the State generally, to sign Memorials praying Legislative enactments, lhe Central Committees were requested to submit interroga- tories to the several candidates for the Legislature in their respective Counties, to ascertain their views on. nnd readiness to advocate legal Reform. Many W tlie I ommittccs have failed to perform the duty allotted them, und it is in- deed perhaps to be regretted that a political cast was given the question, for we present at least. It is necessary to enlighten the puolic mind, to divest men oi thoir long rooted prejudices, before we can pain their consent tooqnw- uon of purely moral Reform; and the experience of lending advocates of the cau.-.e in other States, confirms us in the belief that, until this is done, much permanent good cannot be effected— In order to accomplish this, Lecturers oi acknowledged ability ought to be obtained, to canvass the State and arouse xne people on the subject. This, done, necessary enactments will follow as a matter of course.
Much good can doubtless be achieved by urgrnUy petitioning the J-cgis-
13
lature now in session, for there arc members of that body who ore publicly pledged to advocate legal suasion to the utmost.
[it accordance with the request of many friends of the Temperance Cause in the State, the President of the S. P. II. League has called a State Con- vention to meet in the city of Montgomery on Wednesday ufter the second Monday in the present month, ami to further the objects of the League, Your Committee would most respectfully suggest, the passage of the following Res- olutions:
Resolved, That ft delegation of 18 be nppointed to represent this body in the State Temperance Convention.
Resolved, That this Convention as a body petition the I^pislnturc now in session, to enact a Law giving precincts or counties the right of deciding by popular vote or otherwise, whether licenses shall be granted in their respec- tive bounds.
A. 0. McCRAW, Chairman.
[CI
The Trustees of the Judson Female Institute would respectfully report : The number of Pupils on the Catalogue for the Scholastic year, ending, July", is Two Hundrid ami Five — being the largest number ever entered in one year. Of these One Hundred and Twenty-One were Boarders in the Institute, from Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana and Texas.
We desire gratefully to record the fact, that, with the exception of a case of inflammation of the brain, not a single instance of serious illness occurred in the Judson, during the whole Session.
While we rejoice in the multiplication of Female Seminaries of on eleva- ted character, it is a subject of gratnlation to the Trustees, that the Judson Female Institute maintains its position in regard to numbers, while its internal prosperity is continually augmented. In the perfection of its up- turn and onler, the success of its discipline, the ability and zeal of its In- structors, the value of its Library and Apparatus, the thoroughness of its teachings, and the character of its moral and religious influences, the Insti- tute is, every year, making decided advances, and rendering itself an instru- ment of greater good to the Baptist Denomination and to the community
general lv. . ,
Two changes of importance have been made in the arrnngments ot the Institution, during the last year. The Session has been reduced from 75pm calendar months to Nine, thus giving a recess of Three months, in the Summer season. This change is made in conformity with the wishes of our Patrons, generally. In point of fact, nothing is lost to the Pupils, because
being designated as Junior, Middle, Sub-Senoir, and Senior. _ >
The prevalence of the Yellow Fever among our Patrons in Mississippi, Louisiana, ami Texas, and its appearance at .several points on the rivers east and west of us, has tended to prevent the early filling up of oursclioo ; vet the number now in attendance is One Hundred and Seventy— being only six less than were present on tho first of December, one year ago. IT* fact that no cose of Yellow Fever occurred in Marion or vicinity ; and that there has not been a single case of fever of any kind in our town during 'the whole Summer and Fall will confirm the fuvorablc opinion of this location, as unsurpassed for salubrity. . , * «, • *• • u
The Report of tho Board of Visitors, on the lost Examination, .s here- with submitted. Respectfully, . E. D.KING, Present,
S. Hi Fowlkes, Secretary.
Marion, Dec, 3, 1853.
II
JiidHon Female Institute.
The Board of Visitors, appointed to attend upon tlio Annual Examina- tion of the JllfliMfl Institute, submit the following Report :
The condition of this Institution was never so Nourishing (is at the pres- ent time. Its well merited reputation and known abilities of the Faculty, drew together, during the jwwt year, pupils of more talent and intelligence than WC ever before witnessed in any similar Institution.
The Examination of the t'liussrs was placed entirely in the hands of the Hoard of Visitors, assisted by Professors ami Teachers, found in the audi- ence. It would protract our remarks to too great length, to notiee the va- rious classes, in tie manner they deserve. In all of them, from the PrimaP to tin1 most advanced, it was evident the principles of the branches taught had been thoroughly and completely mastered.
In the Primary and Preparatory Departments, we observed, particularly the distinct enunciation of the pupils, their self-possession, and the clearness with which they communicated their knowledge upon the subjects on which they were examined. Among other classes of great excellence, that in Geography attracted much attention — especially, for the readiness and accu- racy with which they drew maps on the black-board. It must be apparent to every one, that the habits of thoroughness and accuracy acquired in these Departments lay the foundation, in no small degree, of excellence, attained by the Pupils of the more advanced classes. 'The Classes in Botany, Natural Philosophy, Astronomy. Anatomy, Fhystology, Chemistry, and Geology, did themselves great credit. The principles of these sciences had been carefully explained, and the accurate and extensive knowledge which the pupils exhibited, bore testimony that they had assiduously seconded the exertions of their teachers.
The classes in Grammar, History, Evidences of Christianity, Intellectual Philosophy, Moral Science. Initio, and French, did themselves equal honor. In the Department of Mathematics, the excellence of the systematic ar- rangement which is adopted in all the studies pursued in this Institution, was especially conspicuous. The class in Geometry and Trigonometry possessed social merit, demonstrating the more difficult theorems, and solv- Ing the most complicated problems with a correctness and precision worthy of all praise.
The Senior Class in Rhetoric, Txigic, and Political Economy, exhibited a high degree of excellence. The able manner in which they discussed the most difficult subjects and the clearness with which they traced them through all their bearings, was alike honorable to themselves anil their distinguished instructor.
The Halls appropriated to the Drawinc. Painting, Embroidery. and "Wax- work of the pupils, were especially attractive, and excited the highest admi- ration. There were upwards of a hundred and twenty pieces, consisting of specimens of Pcncilings, Crayons, Colored Crayons, Pastille, India ink Sketches, Water Colors, and Oil Paintings, all of them executed with the greatest skill, and possessing the highest degree of excellence. The e;reat number, variety, and richness of the specimens of Embroidery, elicited abundant commendations. The vases of Wax Flowers, Fruit Dishes, loaded with Peaches, Pears, Cherries, Plums and drapes, of the most delicate workmanship, were a tasteful and elegant addition to the other specimens. The Music Department Fustaincd itself with the highest honor and in a manner worthy of its former reputation. During the Examination, and at the Concerts, pieces of the greatest excellence were performed by the pupils, upon the Piano, Harp and Guitar, with the greatest skill, and in the high- est style of excellence. The accuracy of their time, their perfect observance of the laws of harmony, and the briliancy of their execution, gave evidence of able and skillful training. At the expiration of the scholastic year, Dr. Wurm's connection with the Institution ceased. In retiring from the situ- ation which he has filled with so much faithfulness und ability, he carries
15
with him the respect and good wishes of the friends and patrons of the In- stitution. Deservedly high, however, :ts is the reputation of Doctor W'nrm, and great us is the celebrity which he has acquired by his connection with the .ludson, wc ure happy to know that lie is succeeded by a gentleman of equal ability, and of the same extensive and varied acquirements in his pro- fession. We have entire conlid.'nce, therefore, that the Music Department of the Judson will continue to maintain its preeminence, us heretofore.
During the Examination, a great number of Compositions were read, nil of them excellent, and many of them productions of choice merit The success with which Composition is taught in this Institution, deserves some- thing more than a passing notice. Commencing in the lower classes, and m iking use of " Parker's Exercises," the pupils ure taught to think for themselves, and to express their thoughts with great readiness, at first with simplicity and clearness, and afterwards with all the additional beauties of style, of which I lie nature of their subjects will admit.
At the close of the exercises on Wednesday evening, the Principal pre- sented to Mks Mary Xewl.uid, of Carroll County, Mississippi, a Ckhtiii- catk ok Sriioi.AHsiiir, us an honorable testimonial of her success incomple- ting the English course of study in the Institute. From the high standing occupied by Miss Nuwhiud in ail her studies, it is evident, she was in no re- spect inferior to any member of the Senior Class, save that she had not studied French or Latin, si ns to secure a Diploma. The subject of her able and sprightly Essay was " Ik and But."
The Commencement Kxereiscs were of a most interesting character, the Essays of the choicest merit, and listened to with breathless attention. Rich in thought, and sparkling with beautiful imagery, they were worthy of the Graduates of the thorough and elevated course of study pursued in the Judson, Tlie Essays of the young Ladies were followed by un able and eloquent Address from Dr. Smart of Colnmbus, Mississippi.
In concluding our Report, it is but due to notice the good order and reg- ularity which prevailed throughout every Department of the Institution. — The Government ami Discipline are beyond all praise. The entire absence of all confusion from whispering, or from my other disturbance whatever, the lady-like demeanor, and the graceful manners of the pupils, were the subjects of universal remark.
The high reputation which the Judson 1ms established, the unwearied ex- ertions of the Principal, and his unparalleled success in the selection of able and qualified Professors and Teachers, inspire us with full confidence, that it will attain to a still higher degree of superiority, and difluso still more nbnndantly, the blessings of Education and Refinement.
S. Rbnnktt, Louisiana. .1. II. Brown, Sumter. County. W. 1*. Smart, Mississippi. •1. D. Williams, Wetumpka. R. W'ootkn, .Marengo County. Isiiam Uaurtson, Jr., Mississippi. A. Si.kdok, Marengo County.
.1. M. CrxNiNiiiiAM, Mississippi. P. II, Linoy, Lowndes County. James Mannino, Marengo County. ,f. G. Murky, Missisippi. W. H. McIntosii, Eufuulo. 11. Tai.iiihd, Morion. J. H. De Votik, Marion.
Report of the Board of Directors.
Dear Brethren: — We beg leave to return to your hands the trust you have committed to us during the conventional year which is now closed. We thank you for the confidence reposed, and assure you of our entire devotion to the interests of the Denomination.
The unfinished business of the Convention, nt its Inst annual session, was devolved upon the Board of Directors, and they endeavored to discharge that duty to the best of their ability.
During the year thev have received 7 new students into tht Theological De- partment of Uoward College; and they are gratified to learn that these young
Ifi
brethren give great promise of usefulness. The iiimibor of HtuHonlji fletipnd' ing mi tin1 Convention fur pecuniary aid in the prosecution of their studies is six. Tho want* of several of these have been, or will lie, met by Churches nnil Associations. Quito i> number of promising yoniifr men have applied for aid, ami expressed their williiijfiirsa to enter upon a course of preparation for tho sacred office; 'mit your Hoard have been constrained, with feelings of dech regret, to refuse their applications for the want of means to assist them,
Dr. C. Blllingslca, on iiis removal from Marion, tendered hi* resignation as a Trustee of Howard College, stated distinctly that he did tliis in view of the fact, that the Hoard at times found it difficult, on Midden emergencies, to obtain u quorum of its members for the transaction qt business, He there- fore desired that some one living in the immediate vicinity should bike his place. Your Hoard accordin ly elected J, W. Garrett Esq., to fill tho vn- cancy, and to serve out his term of office. Your Hoard have since learned that brother < J arret t has been elected President of the Hoard of Trustees nf Howard ( Jollcgc, and that ho makes a most Valuable and cfllciont officer. All of which is respectfully submitted.
II. TALBIHD, President,
[B.] Hcnrficiarics of Howard College.
The Committee appointed to report a Plan for" rendering permanent need* fill aid to the Beneficiaries of Howard College, subinit :
After considerable rellection given to this important subject, your Com- mittee advise the adoption, by this Convention, of the following Ucsoltitioni
Resolved, That this Convention urgently request every Association, ( 'lunch and Benevolent Association which may be from time to time represented in thi* body, to appropriate a liberal portion of the funds which it Bends up an* nuully for tho support of the Beneficiaries of Howard College.
M. r. JKWETT, Chairman.
tivj
Report on Domestic Missions. Tho Committee on Domestic Missions, Report: — That the subject hi
one of increasing interest and importance, and demands a corresponding share of christian sympathy, and the substantial aid which u liberal spirit on the part of God's people only can furnish. Never, in tho history of the Gospel, since the Apostolic age, has tho Missionary enterprise offered a richer har- vest. Never has the invitation to labor for God, been more cordial, or the obligations to carry out tho jrreat < 'ommivsion of our Jx>rd. pressed upon the hearts of his servants with greater solemnity. In the ordinary pursuits of life men are not willing to confine themselves to tho modes of operation that wore crood in their day. but which have been displaced by the more efficient m-'a is of modern advancement Science and Art, will havejuccomplished little fir the world if they are not made available for the dissemination of the blessings of the Gospel. Foreign and Domestic Missioos make their appeals to us, not as rival or conflicting interests but identified alike in their claims and in their objects. If we confine our view to our own State, our eyes full Upon regions uncultivated, yet inviting, and as the circle of our vision wid- ens, these waste places rise up like mighty rivers, and by their desolation plead for that Gospel, that can make the "Desert rejoice and blossom ne the rose." Much, doubtless, has been accomplished, but, much more remains undone that should be done, that mmt be done. Our Churches have not yet caught the spirit of earnest consecration to God, thut makes every gift subor- dinate to his glory, every possession tributary to his cause
Since our last meeting, by the action of tho Southern Baptist Convention, a new feature in the operations of the Domestic Missionary Hoard, is pre- sented to us. It is known to your body thut a large number of Chinese huvc congregated upon the Western shores of our Continent. As if to chide our bhie^itfliDcss, God lius brought the heathen to our doors. Occupying us tl ey
17
ill, American soil, it is propar that they should be provided for by the Roan] of Domestic .MUsinns.'who we are pleased In luurn, has appointed the licv. .). it. Shuck, their Missionary to the Chinnsa in California, The pecuniary demands of this Mission are grcutcr than any other under the supervision ufthat Hvard, and miwt be met by an Increased liberality ou the part of Southern Baptists. The Hoard cannnt step lure. What'U ono Missionary to forty thousand heatheu? Mow shall they hear without a preacher ? uu'; how shall they pr ucli except they be sent? And how can the Hoard sei d them, except *the Churches famish the means? Other flchR especially in the newly acquired territories of our (Us\ 'fi.mmt. are ojieiiing every day. \V« cannot stand still in this work — wt'd:ov rv-1 look forward to a lime when wli.it W*J have done shall l>e the sta »d i.t !hr what we shall do. Tlie claims of the unredeemed and our responsi unties arc accumulating with every year, and in the same proportion should be the a; -a iinlution in our treasury.
Oar benevolence must keep pan; wit> 'he. progress of the uge, if we would preserve our fidelity to <Jod, and good will to men.
W'c submit the following resolution:
Kfvo/tw/, That Associations and oilier religions bodies, represented in this Convention, which sustain Missior.rios within or beyond their own bounds, bo requested to consider the expediency of co-ojMTating with the Domestic Mission Hoard of the Southern Baptist Convention, so fur at least, a< to allow annual reports of their receipts and disbursements to he made to siid Board, to bs incorporated with its annual Reports, and credited with the Domestic Mission Receipts for the State of Alaltama.
W. H. MclNTOSU, Chairman.
Report of the Committee on Snbbutli Schools.
Your Committee on riabbath Schools would report, that wc have been talking and writing on this important subject quite long enough tor us now to tro to work. They therefore simply recommend the adoption of the fol- lowing resolution :
Resolved, That the members of no Church in our State should feel thnt their whole duty has been ]>erfonned until one Sabbath School or more within the bounds of their respective churches, shall be kept up during the whole year.' Reepcctfully Submitted,
A. A. CONNKLLA, Chairman.
[H/j , Report of Committee on the State of Religion.
The committee on the State of Religion, Report : — Thnt in the early | alt of the present year there was an almost entire nb«cnce of revival intelli- gence m our denominational paper of this State; and a cohlne.-s, which could be felt, reigned over the Churches. It seemed that Ihe'Almighty was preparing the way for his judgment*, by with-holding his blwsihps both tem- poral ami spiritual. His judgments followed, and thousands whose hopes were high, ami expectations as flattering as the delusions of an empty dream, are now siumberiug in tin* voiceless silence of the tomb. Hut, "his merry was not cleat) gono forever." The Lord remembprod his promise and his people, ami graciously revived his good work, poured out his Spirit upon tbe Churches, and rejoiced the hearts of his saints. Hundreds on hundreds have been bom again, horn of the spirit and of the wnter, to an inheritance, in- corruptible, un letiied. and that will never fade avxttf. The revival has been pretty general throughout the State. Although t lio numbers ndded to the Churches are not us large as in former years, yet we give thanks to God for what he hwdoue for his Israel. Submitted.
l>. r'JL:L3Ll>t;,.Tr.. C&ur.w**.
ft
is
[I.]
Report on Foreign 31 i^ions.
The duty ol sending the Gospel to the heathen iw not denied by many, at the prrvent day, who posse** the love of the .Saviour. The Seriptures clear- ly establish it-^-renson and humanity demand it. "(Jo ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature," is the Redeemer's last command. The duty is not only enjoined but the maisurt'ot it is prescribed. "Let cv- cry one of you lay by him in store, 09 God hath prosjicred him." The npir- it with which it should DO pencvered in, is also revealed. "Freely ye have received, freely give." "The Lordloveth a cheerful giver." The work to be done.
The present population of the Earth is estimated at alxtnt one thousand millions. Of which about six hundred and fifty millions arc Pagans,— One hundred and fifty millions Roman Catholics, — One hundred and twenty millions Mohamedans, — Sixty millions attached to the Greek Church,— Eight millions Americans, — Six millions Jews, and about seven millions Pro- testants. The great maiJ of our race arc sitting in darkness in the region and shadow of death.
Work Accomplished.
About tjfty years ago the modern Missionary enterprise commenced. Since that period the Rible has been translated whollv or in part, into about two hundred different languages and dialects — spoken by eight-tenths of the people on the globe. About 2,000 Missionaries and 8,000 Assistants have been employed — 4,000 churches organized — 300,000 converts — 3,000 Mis- sionary Schools— 275,000 pupils — 40,000,000 Bibles and Testaments distrib- uted. Although the Scriptures are published in languages spoken by eight- tenths of the people of earth, yet nine-tenths of them have never seen a copy of this book of books.
It may be well for us to enquire what have wc, as Southern Baptists, done, and what are wc doing in the vast work.
From the last annual Report of our Foreign Board we gather the follow- ing statistics: — 19 stations and out-stations — 39 Missionaries and Assist- ants— 17 Schools— 480 I'npils — 044 Church meml>ers. These M issionarics occupy a little space in two cities in China, and a small part of the coast of Africa — four are on their way to the interior of that benighted land.
The same Report informs us that during the lust Conventional year 821,- 438,45 were contributed bv Southern Baptists for the spread of the Gospel in Foreign lands. A small amount — unpardonahly small, considering the number and ability of the denomination and the wants of a perishing world. Alabama alone ought to raise that amount for Foreign Missions, and a pro- portional sum for other objects.
Did our brethren realize that they aro not their own — did they appreci- ate, to any considerable extent, the value of souls— were they filled with the spirit of the Saviour's Mission, they certainly would contribute with more liberal hands.
Your Committee feel that the present affairs in China claim special notice. That there is an extraordinary revolution now going on in that country U known to all. What will be its final result no one can, with any degree of certainty, predict. This may, however, be relied on with safety, that a door for the preaching of the Gospel to the Chinese will be effectually opened.
From the most reliable information in our possession, the Revolutionists arc favorably disposed to Christianity, so far as they understand it, and will, doubtless, introduce this clement into the Government they propose to estab- lish. But, from their ignorance of the Christian system, they will introduce it in a crude form, involving many en-ore and absurdities. Vet tho Bible will be recognized, nominally at least, as the standard book of religion— the Christian teacher will be protected and encouraged, public Bcntirocnt will bea standard to which the Missionary may appeal with success, that prejudice a-
19
gainst foreigners and new religion which has bo long formed an almost insuperable barrier to tho herald of the cross will he measurably removed.
Now is an important season to wurlc — to send tho minuter of Christ, tho bible --tho colporteur— to enlighten public sentiment — to aid in forming that religious element of the new Government — that it may be a pure Chris- tianity, tho world's only hope.
Your Committee recommend the ministers and delegates to make a sys- tematic and vigorous effort to raiso 3:>000, for Foreign missions the ensuing year. Respectfully submitted.
R. HOLMAN, Chairman.
[JY|
Report of the Committee to nominate the remaining
Officers of the Convention.
The committee report as follows : Win. P. Chilton, Ut Vice P. I J. II. Dkvotik, Cor. Secy,
M. P. Jkwrtt, 2nd " P. J 8. J I. Fowlkiw, Treasurer.
Directors:
A. G. MoCraw, J. F. BAir.KY,
Wm. Hoh.NJIUCKLR, W. N. Wyatt,
J. T. Darrov, J. VV. Oarrktt,
A. 15. (Joodiilk, W. T. Hkndox.
II. Hoi.MAN,
Which is Respectfully Submitted,
A. A. CONN ELLA, Chairma
[K.] Committee on the Memorial on Temperance.
The Committee appointed on Memorializing the Legislature of the State of Alabama, on the subject of Temperance report, recommending the fol- lowing form of a Petition :
"Deeply impressed with the vast social and moral evils resulting to the people of this Commonwealth from the Bale of intoxicating liquors, your Memorialists respectfully ask your Honorable body to pass a law, prohibitiug the sale of intoxicating drinks, in any County, Town, or Election Precinct in this State, except on the petition of a majority of the legal voters of said County, Town, or Election Precinct."
Respectfully submitted,
S. HENDERSON, Chairman,
[L.] Report of the Committee on Education.
Howard Oolleqi had its origin in what we may call, by way, of special em- phasis, the necessity of the times. It was thought that a denomination pos- sessing the numerical strength, the wealth, and the intelligent piety, which tho Baptist did, owed it to their country, as well as to themselves, to erect an institution of learning, which would not only compare fuvorablv with those of other bodies of Christians, but which, at the same time, would commemo- rate to posterity their high appreciation of this sacred interest, and vindicate the claims of the Baptist Church to the confidence of an enlightened public. It was deemed to be an imperative duty, that we should provide some means for the proper education or such young men in our Churches as gave evidence of piety and talent, who should desire to enter the ministry. It was consid- ered altogether practicable to raise within the State of Alabama a ium oi
2U
money adoipmte to Hie endowment of such an liwtitutlon. That an obiert pow«MiuK ku'Ii claims upon the affections, die understanding, the cnlMitefr ml piety, and proverbial liberality of christians, could fail, entered not into the calculation of the projectors of this noble enterprise. With nn unfalteriwr trust, therefore, in the promise of God, as well n* in the intelligence nnd pictr of the Churches, they went forward with n noble Belt sacrificing apirit- and for n time, the most abundant success rewarded thoir effort*. A substantial rojlege edi&je was reared, an able and judicious faculty emploved, mid A most flattering number of young men crowded ita hull*. We all thought thut our brightest conception* in regard to it* completion and Hueeew,wuuk] be realised within a period of time which would mark its history iiscxtraor- ilimiry.
But alas! n sod change 1ms supervened. A reaction the most withering has paralysed lite whole enterprise, uiul the faith of the strongest staggers under the refluent tide. The painful truth is forcing itse'd upon nnr minds, that without Hpccdy nnd vigorous action, all onr expectation* urc doomed to disappointment— that after nil our labor* nnd anxieties, Uowahd Collkci will only serve to COmmemorutC the folly nml imbecility of those who pro- jected it, us well ns that of the denomination under whose iin*picic*, and to promote whose prosperity, it was commenced! -that malignity, with wither- mg scorn and scathing wit nnd sarcasm, will point at the crumbling walls ol iho edifice, nnd exclaim, "Fifty thousand iluptist* in Alabama began te build, but wore not aide to finish!" That Haptist cheek that would not flush with shame at such an announcement, possesses un insensibility beyond tie reach of disgrace.
And this is the melancholy picture which llnWAlin Com.kok presents at tins tune. The reliable endowment reaches only to about $50,0U0. Thisa- mount, the interest of which bring inadetpiute to meet the rxiu'iisoaof the institution under the most rigid economy, is gradually sinking; and unless tlmpniecM be at once stopped by which' it is thus wen'ring awuv.it will soon all lie ubsorbed. For, in proportion aw the amount diiiiiiiishcs.'lhis sinking process increase*. As the principal is absorbed, the iutcnsl becomes k*s, and a* the Interest bceomi* less, the lack is still to he supplied from the principal; and thus by a constant reaction of interest upon principal, nnd principal upon interest, the whole fund will soon melt awtiv. If the Con- vention should require the Hoard of Trustees to kwsen the expenses of the in- stitution, and bring them within the legitimate income of the endowment, the present 1- acu ty will have to be dismissed, and such nn one employed a* such .iiuiinished salaries will command. And one such retrograde movement wvmid he disastrous in the extreme. It would instnntlv fall below the stau- rtawl or nil similar institutions— public confidence would be withdrawn— its nana would be immediately vaeui. ••!,— nnd in spite of nil rnr effort* to tin contrary , it ( would sink in the grade of n common high school. And even tins Mould Lbe hoping against hope. That rebound which sinks it to this ueptii, we have every reason to fcur, wilt entomb it la-vond the possibility of reaiscttation. Under the chagrin and mortification of fuilnre, wcshoHldtry to oamsh all recollection of the enterprise from our minds. Kvery remem- brance ol it would be with shame aim confusion ol luce. . '
1 he scholarships which |mw bl.on Hu|d b 01,)K,r ()f thp (-onv,,ntion to in- reuse the endowment, so far diminishes the income ol the College from tui- tion, us to make it imperative on the Hoard of Trustees, in the absence of
lul • ' ♦"'T*; ^ ■W,Wl* lbe <Jdldt f™n I**- permanent fund. A nd us ttireottj ntunated , t his mode of procedure will diminish that fund in an uc- nt A . J u i • X Um colwl»h,',ation is not urged to reflect upon the wisdom
h TL* fho,ars,'JP"^temofh.erea8iiig the endowment; for/if one half of I K ' r ^?W to W«fe that endowment-(aO,GOO) were let out ill Lt£L% ^ U^ny °* ****** "Pou the permanent fund would cease fr*v 111 S£! m^ ?n 8UcU ttmou»t would be amply sulHcient to de- iray uu expense*. Aud then, superadded to aU this, a large portion of the
21
endowment fund has never vet been collected. Every your, more or less of tin; notes are becoming worthless by insolvency. About nine thouflund dol- lars luve already l)een lost in this way.
Dear brethren, these are mortifying truths, ami gladly would we be spared the pain of announcing them. But every consideration of duty to Cod, to your Itody, to the denomination at large, am] to the world, demand? a faith- f.il unvarnished statement of facts in relation to Howakd Com.kor. The question comes up with ail emphasis, that will not down at our bidding, Sm.u.i, HoWAUl) Coclkok livk ott di r ? Shall we go further, and preserve and jwrpctUiVte what we have already done, or shall we retrace our steps, sacri- lice the labors and results of the last twelve years, Ibid our hands, sit down in inglorious ease and indolence, and permit that enterprise to fail, which, under (Jod, we had hoped would give to many succeeding generations pious ministers to break to their souls the bread of 'eternal life, to the Churches an enlightened, educated and efficient membership, and to the world the ruobl substantial and enduring monument of our Christian philanthropy? Shall we be frightened into imbecility by the first storm that impends* over thu work of our hands? Shall this institution, which we have in the most im- jmsiugand solemn manner dedicated to Clod, and to sustain which we have; iiy equally solemn resolutions passed for twelve consecutive years nt our an- nual meetings, plighted our faith to the public, languish and die for the want of that aid and assistance which could he supplied without impoverishing a single member of the denomination? We think a response comes up from every heart, "No! no! no! We will struggle as we have never struggled be- fore, to prevent such a catastrophe! We will summon our remaining ener- gies, ami invoking the aid of llim to who.se sacred cause we have consecrat- ed the enterprise, make one more effort to save it from utter and hopeless ruin, and the denomination from merited disgrace!"
Relieving that we have rightly interpreted the feelings of our brethren up- on this subject, the only remaining question to be considered is, what meas- ures shall bo adopted to place the College on a permanent basis? To this question, your Committee have given a careful, and lhov\ trust prayerful con- sideration; and will conclude this report by submitting to the Convention tlio results of their reflections.
Two plans have suggested themselves to the Committee, either one of which, vigorously prosecuted, would soon accomplish this desirable result; but neither of which will avail aught without an energy which no discour- agement can relax. And before submitting them, it may be proper to re- mark, that which ever one of them shall be adopted by your body, if either, it must lie adopted, not merely by recording the votes of the body in its favor, but by affording that substantial guarantee that it will be successfully cur- ried out, not in speeches, voles, and resolutions, but in those willing cheerful ollerings to the cause which the exigency demands. Wc believe that, so fur as human instrumentality is concerned, the octiuli of this Convention, now in session, vitally involves the destiny of the College. The crisis requires a more powerful agency than a mere calm and deliberate sense of duty cun supply. To stand still is suicidal — to move forward in an ordinary gait, is to protract an agony and suspense, which have already become intolerable — to rush to the rescue with an enthusiastic ardor, is its only sulvu- t i. mi.
The first plan to which we have alluded is this: Let the Convention re- solve to raise annually five or ton thousand dollars, until the fund shall Is; completed— let the ministry in the bounds of each Association in connection with this body, pledge themselves to devote a portion of their time euch year to this matter — let each pastor try to raise at least as much as one dollar from each member of his Church or Churches — and let the Board of Trus- tees immediately issue n short Ciicular, setting forth these facts, addressing a copy of it to every pastor in the State, known to bo favorable to the cause. This plan, if it could be made to work, would onlist the euergies of the en-
'22
t
Are denomination — a desideratum which the miwt active agent could not ac- complish— besides tho BAVillg of the salaries of npents.
It is believed that many of our Churohci would take scholarships for their Paflton, if an opportunity were oficrcd to them. And wo take Uw liberty of suggesting this to the Churches, and earnestly ask them to make this pre- vision in tho College forthecdueation of the sous of their pastors.
The second plan is to employ some competent agent for five years, with a suitable Kalory. who shall canvass the entire State, and earnestly solicit the brethren to relievo the institution. We saw that such an Agent ought to be appointed for live yean for two reasons: Hint, We could scarcely hope tliut the fund could he completed in less time than that. At lou<t fifty thoii.-nml dollars more arc needed to place the College Oil such a foundation us is de- sired, and essential to its prosperity; and the most flattering success would not Authorize nit to hope that that amount conld be raised short of five yean, Secondly, the man who is to assume such an undertaking, must he tukt n from a permanent and responsible position, for which he is so eminently qualified, that he can only he spared for this service. And unless some guarantee of this kind Ik- furnished, we cannot hope to command the services of suih u man.
In conclusion, you will allow us. brethren, to indulge a single reflection: 'Hu1 success of our educational movement involves, in an eminent degree, the future prosperity of the denomination throughout the State. Any denomi- nation of Christians, in this aire of improvement und progress, which makes no provision for the education of its ministers, to say nothing of the rising1 generation at large, cannot expect to prosper. As a denomination, we be- lieve we hold the faith in its purity, as it was once delivered to the saints. We believe that our principles are destined to spread throughout the world. The estimate which we place upon these principles will lie measured by the character of the men whom we have chosen to defend them. The character of a denomination is always associated in the mind of the public, with tho iharactor of its accredited representatives. If they be ignorunt and Miter- ute, such will be the esteem in which their denomination will be held. And lis an earnest of what the Churches may expect from tho Theological depart- in lit of the College, we are permitted 'to record with gratitude to tied, tliut during the three months vncation of the last Summer the labors of the stu- dents now in that department wore Most to the conversion of more than three hundred souls. Such n seal of the divine approbation upon the enterprise, we trust will not appeal to our Churches in vain.
In the Report of the Hoard of Trustees of Howard College, there are two or throe items requiring the attention of this bodv. The Trustees thought that a rigid enforcement of the policy recommended by the last Convention, in regard to the collection of the notes of the College, world seriously em- barks tho operations of the Agent of the last year. Thev therefore con- cluded not to enforce it. It is eertainlv desirable to collect these notes at as early a day as possible. We recommend, therefore, that the most speedy and judicious measures lie adopted by the Hoard to collect these notes; and that in all cases of refusal to pay, suit be at once brought to enforce the collec- tion. °
In accordance with the wishes of the Board, wc recommended the appoint- ment ot a Committee to nominate, five suitable persons to fill the vucuncics on the Hoard of Trustees.
The Report of the Trustees of the Jcdson Fkmalk Jnktitvtf. shows a de- gree or prosperity in that institntion oo,ual to, if not surpassing, any other period or its history. Wc cheerfully recommend it to the favoruble regards ot the public as every way deserving its confidence and patronage. \\ e re- commend that the Report and the accompanying document be published.
jk J}0?™*\ ^i 8 i8 thc (ll»ty of the Board and the denomination to raise
Jj a fund amply sufficient to meet thc necessity of the Institution until the cl-
ffi
tho permanent fund used by the Board of Trustees to pay the current expen- ses of Howard College has only been used by the coiwent of the donors aud
that no bluine uttucht*s to them for using the same. All wheih is respectfully submitted.
SAMUEL HENDERSON, Chairman.
The Twelfth Annual Report of the Trustees of How- ard College.
Pk.ui Bkktiirkn : We have, under tin.' directing providenee of our hea- venly Father, completed the work of another year, and we beg leave to sub- mil to your consideration the following report. :
He who directcth all things acrording to the counsels of his own will calls npon us to commence our annual communication, with the language of mourning. Our venerable brother, Sheppard Spencer, Sen., of Sumter county, who was one of the most liberal benefactors, and devoted friends of the College has recently been called from the scenes of his earthly labors to the rewards o'f heaven. While we cannot mourn for this dear father in Israel, who has escaped from the toils and anxieties of earth, to the bliss of a tearless and eternal home, we deeply feel that we have cause to mourn for ourselves, and for the Institution of which he was such a valued and con- stant friend. We have not the facts, and even if wo had, the limits of this report do not permit us to give a detailed biography of this devoted servant of Christ, but we could not be excused if we did not pause to offer this tri- bute of respect to the memory of this truly good man, so pre-eminently worthy the sacred meed, " The righteous shall be had in everlasting remem- berance." With this single exception, the last year has been signally mark- ed for the divine favor upon your educational enterprise. At no former pe- riod in the history of the college has so large a body of new students enter- ed its halls, or of this number so many young men of promise. Perhaps no year since the existence of the college has been more distinguish by a punc- tual and systematic discharge of duty in all the departments of instruction. No officer has suffered from ill henlth, and no sickness has occurred among the students to interrupt them in their course of studies. They have been industrious and have faithfully applied themselves to the duties assigned them, and, throughout the classes, nave mode respectable progress in their studies. The general deportment of the students, with scarcely a single ex- ception, and their respect for the government of tho college have been all that could be asked or expected. Very few cases of discipline have occur- red during the year, and not one in which extreme measures have been nec- essary. S our Board recognize in this (act, an index of the high tone of moral sentiment pervading the body of students.
The Faculty remain the same as was reported at the last session of your body, namely : Rev. II. Tai.iiirp, I). 1).. President and professor of Theolo- gy, and Moral Science, A. B. GooDHUK, A. M., Professor of Mathematics. N. 11. Davis, A. M., Professor of Natural Sciences, L. Bkown, A. M., Pro- fessor of Languages, It. A. Mo.vtaoue, A. B., Tutor and Principal of the Preparatory Department These gentlemen have fully met the highest de- mands of their respective departments. Several of them arc too well known, and appreciated by the denomination to need any eulogy at this time. They arc all worthy tho fullest confidence, as men, as gentlemen and instructors, and it is a subject of congratulation to your Bourd that they have found it possible to secure such a Faculty for the College.
!M
I ho number of studenti constituting the Theological Department for Hi . past year wns fourteen i or the* six- have been nnderthc patronage of tic I tonvrntion as its hcnHchiries. Ilio whole number of students received intn the different department* during the year wns one humlrwl tuid rortv-et&rlil I ho Annnnl Cmnmenwmimt. held on the last Thursday in June 1853 wu one of gnat interest ana highly creditable to the College nod the graduating
ClllSS
The financial condition of the College Is not materially different Iron what it was lust year, and is no follows :
|>uo (»ct. l<t. Ikvi. Theological Fund, I'rinoijial and Interest, *>•> noo on Literacy Fntut, Principal uiul Intercut 35 9.v> hi)
Total, Literary and Theological Fund ^S*sKi.*>~hij
Your Board have awompHshod hul little in collecting the notes riven for the endowment of the College which have fallen due. They have not for- gotten the direction of thn Convention, at its hud session, bm touching Ihifl j> 'int. It will wu remembered, however, that Rev. 1). 1*. Jtafor wus nb< pointed general agent, by your body, with the understanding that he would labor to complete, at once, the end iwment of the College. Jt was thought that any coercive mcasnres atlopted by your Hoard for the collection of the College notes niio-ht have 1111 unfortunate bearing on his ageucv. Thoy have therefore deferred nil aetioti in the matter, nnd they rnmcctrally b> (pure i whether if might nol lie well for the Convention to give some mow specific directions upon this delicate subject.
It is highly desirable that the denomination should be Kept well informed a* to the character ami condition of the Theological Department of How- »rd College ^ our Board have reared that a mistaken impression injurious to your Institution might result from certain modes of HpeaKing of this «I«tmrt- moot. Tt is sometime represented to liewuibonlinate to the College prom*, nnd ns u mere appendage to it. This manner of speaking is ndapted to mis- lead, and to cool the ardor of the denomination, ami their devotion to the cause ot Ministerial education. It is true the College sustains a vital rela- tion to the rhcologicul Department, and one cannot prosper without the other. Of the fourteen Theological students, whose mimes are recorded In the last catalogue, some arc in the Senior class, some in the. Junior, Sopho- more, Freshman, and Mul). Freshman classes. Now, if one professor wan '•ailed npo., to instruct all these classes, he would be compelled to hear at east fifteen recitations daily, besides attending t- the composition and dec- lamation of each rind A by himself. This would be impossible, and any one. or even two me,, v ,rdd sink nndersnch labors. Tn addition it will bo serai that these young brethren while pursuing these branches of education are inprepared to enter fully n,™ tlic Btudy of Thcologv. In view of all mc circnai jtauees by which they an! surronnded, it has been the aim of your jjoara, aided by the adviccand experience of the professor of Theology to rurmf* to those studying with reference to the sacred (.nice u systematic nnd hurrnon ions I ,ternry and Tlieologlcal education. Your Board are fully Persuaded that these young brethren, when they hare completed the course
n,,r 32 , I . ,5B f°r timn *ffl >" fou»d 'Wly adequate to the wants of
our churches m Alabama.
to I V,',?*!"™ •',lclhi'c "f l,lc ^^dand the subject of iheir earnest prayer t nS 1° °* domination whose interest* they have, bin at-
52*7t£ B.Sf?' ,lK'" haVC hoaP(1 *<**» rro'» * thousand" source,
h ^n^ u • "l™-j>'^l,cm»g evidence that the exalted Saviour
.. -Ln . T «W**«i|*>n linked your Institution as an humble in-
v ,, Z «„ ft 1 "\?1 W* "f ^ *«<* are to result in the moral 1 ,» ?,•',. W0,ld- V w b,liov"(1 nnd not without . vfdenqe that no suuiiai lut.iuaou, withm tin ramc ?pat« of time, ami tvftfi N similar siiouM
na
.if means at command has accomplished more in furnishing (lie pcrishim «ith flic bread of Hits, and in facilitating the march of Zioti. Brolhrei
•siiicntcil in this College and those wlio arc now pursuing tlieir studies in i have visited many regions! of thin Hutu preaching "nil the words of this life," and whenever they have gone the blessing of Owl Ims attouded tlieir labors. And it is nut too much to say that hundreds mid even thousands ■uv now rejoicing in tin- hope of immortality who were l.roiiLcht into our Churches through their instrumentality.
We have staled that the hist year was signally marked by the l>i\inc fa- vor on your educational enterprise. Tin; present Collegiate year has open- ed wiih prospects still more bright and ehecriug. Large numbers of youth ■ire rallying to the standard which you have erected for their beuelil. Al- ready on? fmndteil and thirty have enrolled their names — u number unparal- leled in the history of the C'ollege. A much larger portion of th< .v than is Usual have entered (lie higher Classes. Man) of them are young men of niely. mid possessed of extraordinary talents. This fact is not* a lit lie grali* lying both to those who have- bam furnishing money to sustain lh« College mimI to those who have consecrated their lives to promote it. The prcdio tioiHOf the warmest friends of the enterprise have been more than ivuli/.ed for in the number of students, in the standard of education, and in general reputation there has been a steady advance. We mention this with devout gratitiulu to (Jod, and witli fervent prayer for his continued assistance and direction.
A growing conviction of the work in which you are engaged lias rested upon the minds of your Board. J>ut it is more and more deeply feit that the present endowment is inadequate to give sulUcienl support and permanency
to the different departments of instruction. There is an immediate in *iity
for a sum of not less than thirty thousand dollars; and unless it can h: rais- ed there, must be an annual diminution of the permanent fund of the College. until ultimately its Treasury will become bankrupt. The denomination will then have to begin anew a work which having more than half accomplished they allowed to fall into decay and ruin. In view of all these facts we are tally pursuaded, that the denomination will not allow an Institution which has done so much to raise the standard of learning both in itd laity and min- istry to perish for (he want of a sum which the poorest Association in Ala. could contribute without even an approach 10 the scriptural standard of self- denial.
If the Convention will sustain and encourage the Board in any well di- rected t^nct tu complete the endowment of the Collegn all can bo accom- plished. And in order that the Convention and the Baptist.'. of Alabama may have a clear understanding of what must be done, your Board subjoin a concise statement of the assets and expenses of the College.. When the enterprise was undertaken it was decided that at least one hundred and fitly thousand dollars would be required to ensure its success. About eighty thousand of that, amount, perhaps a few thousand more— have been raised. Hut a part of that sum has been expended in the payment of agents, ill the erection of buildings, and in the purchase of apparatus. These expen- ditures have reduced the funds of theJOolloge to the amoimt, reported (:>>',- n.r.),H().) Kveil this amount if collected and so disposed as to enable your Board to command the annual interest prfliiptly would, (were it not for the scholarship system) be sufficient to sustain the College, at its present posi- tion. Hut the money is still in notes, and a large portion of it given on the Scholarship plan. In addition to this the amounts collected, and expended in the erection of buildings and in the purchase Of apparatus was subscribed on the same plan, For these sums certificates of scholarships have been i*» sued and not less than forty-six of the hundred mid thirty MudciiH in llie College are filling either single or permanent scholarships. This is a very material reduction of the tuition feus of the College. In the mean time sev 'val of the contributors to the endowment fund have becoma insolvent and 4
_;j,
MuuVnotrv eon never ltc collected, Prohnblv nol over fortv-five or liftv thonsaud i>l 1 1 » - SftH, >.''■"' in ilir hands nl yonr hoard < an i vit i»>' mode avuil- il!«lo. 'I In- annual evpenditnres "I lilt* ' olleire iurlndhiu, tin- -.dui i.-j nf |,r.» |. «nis, |!io expense o| rliftiiii nk iinparnlus, hooks, \ r., &c. dy not full niton"
mT-'Mii ihotH ii. 'I livi' hundred ;|nl!ni -. 'I In' ililele-! (in *7.">.0II(> would IK
m\ ihous iml |'ri'. nnii. niul tlu' tuition f> ex huvc rtiiM 'I from two thousand in iwenlv-five hundred dollnvs nor annum. Tluw i"; » < i - - «■■ 'ii-' i 1 1 1 1 ■ • 1 1 » • * ground nf nnr :t|'|'i nl in Ihi'ilmi miunth n Ihr tin additional fund of tflhi 0(W nf .-'::.'>,niui.
Si v. nt \ liv •• | In n«ii|ti| dollars nf endow IIU'llI will "iiaMe YOlir llo.e.d to Ml*
I ii in ill'' i'. .lie:.' in it- present elevated position. ThN will give you tins H ml opW'rtuuitv In increase the fund far endowment to almost tun rxtcnl, I iii I if i III- uVunniiimtion will not contribute so much t • » the ixlucnlitm of oar vmimr incn - our sons tin- ('nl me pastors of our Chnrchw —your educational scheme must fail niul i> wmiinl he indicted »n tho (hiptwt cuu^ in Alubtuni which n century will not heal.
W.'.'l'i,- this ronimntiir.it ion with unoxtrncl from on article prepared fur Inc Si-vth Wndrrn ftn/rfwf, "When v> reflect how much has been done, how near the ih'<ir"<! point wo stand, i' iajuird to conceive how the Collcc* \< allowed to remain yonr after yenr in n dubious" position. Its Bucimssand internal arrangements' mn,si In' highly satisfactory to every rrasonnbloinind, The mere point of location is rertainly n mutter, of small consequence,* Imiji us proper influences, dealt hfnlncss ami accessibility nr* secured. In the two tir>t. Marion is preeminent, ami the present certainty ot a KaiV rmd communication with Solum leaves not hiug to he ilesircih Sectional preferences >houlilnot lie flowed to intrude in matters of prosit importance, and universal pood. There should he an onlrrc unity of feeing* and unity of effort, without which nothinp will he ihate. * The denomination nf our Stato iiiitnnl support two Institutions o| high order- Slmllvi' then throw away the Inhor'of ten wars and begin anew lieennjethc centre <>1' irradiation is not at our own iloor. Oh purify the heart of the selfish Ming, ami hi us enter upon the fulfillment of this noble cml with souli warmly ami entirely etjipipcd for the general good. We want more siuaw iinit^-, more libcrnJ sclfsacriticinp spirit.
Voiir Itoard will renuwi tho t Vuvenirnn to appoint nmmallya vblting Pommittoe, who shall be invi«-d it> attend the annual examination ol. the t'Ollepe, and report to the donomiiuiti'oti Wie efficiency and success of the .vtndents in Howard Collepc.
Tho term of offieo of the followinp memltors of tlie Boanlof Tnwtew, Wnp one-thiwl of \iw whole, will expire with Uie prcacnt Session of UK t'onvention, n idii new elect-ion is necessary, via: <J. U. Shorter, L. H. u\w, W. I'. Chilton, ll.Tulbird. D. V. ltestor. '
Allot' which is ropcclfullysubmitted,
tJ.W'.nARUKTT, Prevleut Hoard Trustees.
m
Koport on the Soutlioru Haptist Publication Society
Tho Commitec rctxu-t that. as it hits bccnpcperally reported a«l Pn^J'™"
f-d that ci'her the rnvident or Secvetuvy of that body or both, would ut- tend the Convention, Your c.r^mitti'o bclicvinp thut the most siitisfucto- rv information on nil points touching the interents and plans of /ipcrutioa* oY the S. It. P. S., bo obtained from those brethren, have concluded, to pre- ii'iit no other report, C. V. STUHG1S, Qhatrman.
[O]
Report on Perio/licals.
Yonr Committee npain recommend tho Jlnmr. and Foreign Journal ar>« fydmn Advocate, us deserving of more liberal ptvtronnge.
21-
Tin' Smith Western linjifisi now published in Montgomery has enlarged its subscription list during Uic pusl your; but this increase hits not boon BUf- lii iciit ti> nitci tin' increased <'\|h uses incurred by its removal. \U propri- itnrscnnlomptutc another removal t<» some place, where the price of labor, Kent Ac. will enable them to pnblinhit cheaper. In viewing this fact we ivminiiH'iiil the adoption of the following resolution:
I'rtiilrnl, That we have tin- fullest confidence In the prcsont Editor* and Proprietor* of the South Western Baptist; and we will sustain them in any iipsuiv Jlicy may adopt to advance the interests of our pupcr; and should i lie contemplated removal be effbetod, we will still give it our support
I. T. 'UCUENOU, Chairman.
28
[P.]
Samuel II. Powlkea* Treasurer in Account Current
with (lie Alabama Baptisl Slute Convention.
Da. C*
Domestic Mission I Account.
1852. ISS2.
Nov, 10, To Ca*h Rcc'd from Nov. 2(1, By William. Hnrn-
Flnanco Committee $1357 83 buckle'* Trca, Receipt — $15(10 ;.'i
1853. l^-r,:!- NtiV.10,Tnca*hRrc\ir'mFl- Nov. M, By William Horn-
nance Com. Seaman VCaunu 3 00 buckle's Trcn. Receipt. .. . l"i 03
S.ik. 23, TiK'usli from Rei .11.
T. ll.ird bin Sub. at List Con- *l^fj M
vention 25 00
Sljilj 85
Indian Mission Account,
18.V2. 1852.
Nov. 10, To Cash RecM from Nov. 10, ByC. F.SturgiV ccr-
Finuucc Committee 81052 lii tilfcntc $85 «0
1853. Nov. lo. By J. II. DeVutlc'a
April 10. To Cwh RecM from certiHcnte 1»I 'M
u frleml of Mis. ut llcntou, Pec. t'.. Hy J. F. Merrick's re- Ala looo ceipt : 1*5 M
H,c. is, By J. F. llcrrick'n re-
$1062 IK ceipt . , '28 ffl
Nov. balance in hand 2 sh Dec lb, By bal. in band — >'M
$10-;2 16
Foreign Mission .heount.
\K>2. 1*52.
Nov. 10, To Cash RecM from Nov. 10. By Bli Ball's, 2, Re- Finance Committee $!>01 69 ceiptn ..*... V $1118 0"
Nov. 10, To Cash on Imiid as Nov. 1U, By balance in bu:id 4* ' ' Dor lost report 54 24 £1
Nov.. 10. To Canli RecM from $1 Ms w
Finance Committee for Af- rican Missions 157 55
Nov. lo. To Cash RecM from Finance Committee for Chi- na Missions 4 CO
Nov. 21. To Cash RecM from Grnnt'a.Creck ehurcb to ed- ucate a girl in Mrs. Craw- ford'* school, China 30 00
Pec. 13, To Cherokee Afitoci- tion 2 1.">
1853. ;
Feb. 1, To W. II. MuRgrove for African Missions ,r,o
Fell. 1. To W. II. ftfusgroro |
for China Missions 60
April lit. To a friend of Mis- sions, Benton, Lowndes co. Ala is 00
$11 GO 23
i s:,3.
Nor. 19, To bal. in band.... 48 13
29
Domestic Bible
1852.
Nov. 10, To Cash Rec.'d from
Finance Committee
Cause. 1852.
Nov. 12. ByK. A. Blunt'* Re. $320 HI ceipt $320 1 1
Southern Publication
1 852.
Nov. 10. To Cash Rec'd from
Finance Committee $302 8Gj Receipt
General Purpose 1852. Nov. 10. To Cidi Rec'd from
Society Account. 1H.-.2. N'ovV 10, Rv Piatt Stout's
$302 86
■1852.
Account.
Nov. 5, Hy balance as per last
Finance Committee $:::; 50 Report $7 00
Nov. lo, To tax on Foreign Nov. 10, By Plait Stout's lie-
Mission fund 30 00 0"ipt 80 00
Nov. 10, To tax on Domestic Nov. lo, By Platl Stout's itc-
Hiblc cause 15 00 ceipt 40 00
Nov. lo. To tax on Southern Nov. lo, Rv A. W.Chombliss'
Publication Society It 00 Receipt. 20 00
Nov. 10, To tax on Domestic Nov. 10. By deficit in funds
Mis-ion fund 10 00 not paid to Trcas. (being ao
Dec. 13, To cash from Chero- ( error) 8 12
kee Association 1 85 April 17, 1853 Hy expenses on
Dec. 13, To balance 27 73 Minutes from Montgomery 1 00
$157 0»j < $157 08
:Nov. 1853, By balance (over
| paid) $27 73
Howard College. ■ 1 852. 'Nov. 25. Hv Blunt & Tult'l
Bentficiuru Account, 1852.
Nov. lo, To balance bro't for- ward (see last report) $128 its Receipt. ". $2165
Nov. 10, To cash Ilcc'd from 11853.
Finance Committee 331 1 IJan. 1, Bv Mrs. T. B. Hinton's
Nov. II. To cash Rec'd from
Receipt.
20 00
A. W. Cam bliss sub. at Con. 10 00 Jan. 20. Hv Mrs. T. It. Hinton's
Nov. II. To cash Rec'd from
i Receipt 36 83
l>. II. \V. Mclver 10 OOjJnn. 21. By Mrs. M. Codey's
Nov. 11, To cash Rec'd from | Receipt 21 00
.». 1). Williams 10 00 Jim. 24, Hv Mrs. M. Codey's
Dec. 1853, To balance 13 8<i| Receipt." : 37 00
March 21, Hv Mrs. Hinton's
$503 98 Receipt 78 00
April 1!». By Mrs. M. Codey'a
| Receipt..' C 00
April 1!*. Hy Mrs. M. -Codey'a Receipt 30 00
To the President ami Members
of the Ala. Baptist State Conv'n .April l!t, By Mrs. M. Codey'a
The undersigned herewith submit the foregoing report, showing a buianci due Indian Missions of *2 HX, also a balance due Foreign Missions of $4H 15. which after deducting $27 73, over paid on General Purpose Account, and SIS «(>. overpaid on Beneficiary Fund, Howard College! loaves a balance in my hands of $'J 44, subject to your order.
Rpspectfulv submitted,
S. H. FOWLKKS.Treus. A. H. S.C. Audited and found correct,
J. T. BAILEV, (Vro'n.
Ma won, Aln. Nov. 30, 1*<53.
Receipt 12 00
April III, Hv cash paid Miss Bark's girl's Receipt 4 00
April 20, By E. A Hlunt's re- ceipt 60 00
April 20. By B, A. Hlunt's re- ceipt 50 00
April 20, Hy K. A. Hlunt's re- ceipt 70 00
June 1, By Mrs. Hinton's re- ceipt 15 00
Hy nm't J. H. Devotie's order OB W.N. Wyatt 13 00
$503 'J 8 Nov. 1853, By balance (over paid) «»3 >*
30
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OP TIIK ANNUAL MEETINU OP THE ALABAMA BAPTIST
BIBLK SOCIETY, HELD AT SELMA, DALLAS COUNTY,
ON MONDAY, 12 O'CLOCK, DECEMBER 5th., 1853.
Tlio anniversary sermon was preached on Sunday night, by the President, and a collection taken up amounting to $271,- 05, pledges $60.
The Society was organized by the President, and delegates were received from the following bodies :
Liberty Association Bible Society- — Jefferson Falkner.
Pine Barren Association Bible Society — K. Uawthorn, C. W. J hire. E. K. Kirvin.
Montgomery Baptist Church Bible Society — I. T. Tichenor.
Tuscaloosa .Association Bible Society — Fund.-.
Tiutkegm Asoociation Bible Society — A. J. Battle, J. New- man, .J. F. Hooten, Samuel Henderson, .J. M. Watt.
Bethel Bible # Colporteur Society — W. J. Parker, A. A. Connella.
Central Association Bible Society — D. It. W. Mclver, J. D. Williams.
The following persons enrolled their names as mci ibers by paying the amounts annexed :
L. B. Parker $10 ; A. G. Mc,Craw$10 ; L. B. Lane $10 ; J. H. DcVotio and Mrs. M. C. DeVotio $10 ; David Gor- don $10; Bro. BowdenllO; Walker Reynolds $10 ; W.N. Wyatt $10 ; I). A. Lamar $10 ; F. L. Johnson $10 ; D. R. W. Mclver and Mrs. M. Mdvcr $10 ; I. T. Tichenor $10 ; M. P. Jewctt and Mrs. J. Jewett $10 ; B. Melton $5 ; Thos. Barlow $5 ; Jas. M. Newman $5 ; K. Hawthorn $5 ; J). Law $5 ; J. Curry $5 ; II. Dubosc $5 ; Dr. McGrudcr $5 ; G. Hopper $5; A. A. Connella $5 ; Bro. Cnnc$5; J. I. La- mar $5 ; Jas. Clcavcland $5 ; C. W. Ilurc$l ; John Tolbcrt $1 ; Jas. Brazier $1 ; 11. Holman $1 ; J. T. S. Parks $1 ; T. G. Kcene $1 ; P. 11. Lundy $2 50 ; W. Wilkes $1 ; John A. Norwood $1 ; J. F. Bailev $1 ; E. E. Kirvin $2 50 ; II. Tal- bird $5 ; Mrs. T. M. Goodwin $10 ; Bro. Suttlo $3 ; F. B. Teaguo $1 ; A. B. McWhorter$l ; J. F. Hooteu $5 ; R. P. Lido $5.
Theso amounts arc included in the report of the Financial Committee. Mrs. Bcvnolds $10; Mrs. Philpot $10; Mrs.
Newman $10: Mrs. S. McCraw >." ; Mrs. M. L. Jackson $5; Miss Anna Burr $2 : Mr?. Ann Weaver $:■> ; Mrs. Gray |5- Mrs. Lavender $5 ; Miss Malory *1 ; Miss Malory $1 ; Mrs! Goldsby 13 ; Mrs Nance *1 ; 'Miss Evartfl $1 ; Mrs. Melton
Rev. James II. Devour, re-elected President, " P. II. Lunpy elected Secretary.
Appointed It. Ilolman, T. G. Keeno and S. Henderson a Committee to nominate the remaining officers.
Financial Committee, J. V. Bailey I. T. Tichcnor and J. P. Williams.
Adjourned to meet at the cull of the President.
0 o'clock, p. m. Mel at the call of the President. Report of the Hoard read and adopted.
deport of the Boitrdof Directors.
Immediately after the adjournment of the last Session of your body the Hoard appointed the Rev. J. D. Williams agent, wlw at once entered upon thedischnrgo of the duties of his appoint- ment.and labored with energy and success 0 months. Through his efforts a number of efficient Auxiliary Associatioual Uiblc Societies and their branches have been formed, and an increas- ed interest excited in favor of the Bible cause.
This plan of operation which returns one half of the fund contributed to the Auxiliary in Bibles for distribution within its bounds, secures the necessary action in each Association in supplying their own destitution and also gives the proper in- direction of the funds contributed by Baptists to your Treasury to meet in part the demands mode upon us for the other des- titute fields of the Earth.
We heartily approve, and adopt this plan and recommend the formation of kindred Societies by all the Associations in Alabama. The Board has appropriated Six Hundred Dollars to establish depositories in Montgomery, Selma and Gaines- ville, two honored dollars each.
The demand for the Word of Life is greatly increased both at home and in foreign lands. Recent events in China have opened an effectual' door for tho introduction of the Divine Word into that land which calls upon us to make anjeffort greater than has ever been put forth for the people of any language under heaven.
The Foreign Mission Hoard desires to appropriate $2500 this year for Bibles to bo distributed by their Missionaries, and the Bible Hoard at Nashville felt it 10 be their duty to appro- priate $2000 for this same great field to seattcr abroad the written word of God through the instrumentality of Brother Robert*.
30
It Is a gratifying fact that we have a translation of the New Testament made by Brother Goddard of the Missionary Union which in highly commended ami approved by our Board and Baptist Missionaries on the lipid.
The Board confidently expects that the benevolence of the Baptists of this State in this work will correspond to the greatness of the blessings which we enjoy from this Divine source of light and Eternal lite. Brother Stout not having made his final report we have not the means of knowing the amount of stock in Bibles' on hand. Through the agency of our Auxiliaries we hope to do much more than we have accom- plished in times past. J. II. DkVOTIE, President,
Report of the Treasurer referred to auditing Committee, consisting of 1>. Gordon, L, M. Lone audi). I). Williams.
Financial Report read and adopted.
The Report was read and adopted.
Appointed J. F. Bailey, J). Gordon and L. B. Lane a Committee to nominate a preacher for the next meeting of the Bible Society.
Said Committee nominated I. T. Tichenor to preach the annual Bible sermon.
Tuesday, 0 1-2 o'clock.
Met at the call of the President. Prayer by 0. Welch. On motion, seven hundred dollars were appropriated for the distribution of Bibles in China, under the direction of the Foreign Mission Board at Richmond, Va.
Report of Rev. L\ Stout referred to the Board. The Appointment of an agent referred to the Board. All unfinished business referred to the Board. Adjourned to meet in Marion, on Friday before the second Lord's day in Dec, 1854. .
Officers. James II. DeVotie, President; B. 1). Kind, 1st Vice Presi- dent; T. G. Keen'e, 2d Vice President; P. 11. LUNDY, Secre- tary ; E. A. BLOUNT, Treasurer.
Directors. M. F. Jewett, L. Y. Tarrant, R. HolmaN, II. Talbird, J. T. Barron, A. B. Goodhue, W. N. Wyatt.
JAMES H. DEVOTIE Prcs't. P. H. Lundy Scc'y.
Report of Finance Commit tec.
Collected on Sunday night, f-Tl U">
Fine Barren Association, 126 &>
Tuskegcc Association Bible Societv, 108 00
Canaan . " " " ' 40 00
Central " " " 7"> 95
Liberty " " " 47 Ifi
K. P. tide, o 00
no
Miss Anna Burr,
Bethel Bible and Ool. Society,
Pledges Redeemed,
,1. T. Purks sale of Bibles.
Rev, P. Stout i»ale of Bible*,
K. L .Johns on pledge redeemed,
Pledge redeemed nince adjournment,
1. rl\ Tichcnor,
P. II. Lun.lv.
itov. I). It/W. Melver and Irfidy.
Montgomery Church Bible Societv,
$997 00
I.T. TICIIEXOR, Ch'n. Received of Rev. I. T. Tichenor nine hundred and ninety- seven dollars, amount as above, reported l>y him as chair- man of Committee of Finance.
J. IT. DEVOTIK, P. IT. Lusror. Pee'v. Pres't. B. U.S.
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E. A. lilimt in Accoti
1.10
33
Ca*h Received, 18.12,
Nov 11. To amount on hand SI
IMS.
April 21. To amount of Uev.
Jessse A. Collins per the
hands of Rw. J. 11. UeVotie.
Collections m reported by
Rev. J. I). Wi Ilium.-. Thos. 1'. Miller for Foreign
Distribution 50
C. Barnes, Foreign Dist'ioa,. 5
Homo, " •>
J. L. Hlifw, •' •« io
M.B.W. Smith io
John llattlo 5
Dabncy Palmer
Mrs. A.Dale , ,, \
L. W. Lawlcr, 5
U. A. Walker ., 5
Talladega Church n
Mrs. M. Griffin 2
Hon. J, II. Watson, , , . ■ 5
Mathew Turner, 10
Dr. II. A. Howard,...'.!!'!! 3 .Samp-on Lanier, . . 2
Mrs. M. T. I'ouncj,..!. '" M. A. Lido.......
B.N.Lide, ;;;;■'
J. E. Pouncy,
Jane Pouncy,
B. Pouncy ,,,',
A. Pouncv
July 4. J JI. Brown,!. '!!.'... 100 Mis* Mary Bite*. 1
m with Alnbnmn Baptist Bible Society •
Mrs. P. Paskcl I
Providence Cliurch lu
77 li. 0. Poster 2 50
.Sept. 30, Joshua Poster Trea* of'fuscalonsa Association Bi-
Wle S(K:ictv 25
Nor. in. Wm.X. Wyatt'J'iva*.
(Jaua1>a Association 41 15
April 21, G. Good, (Rec'd of Iter. J. D. Williams,) 10
Total.
Cash Disbursed.
liiu »;
18.'
January 3, By amount paid to order in favor of K<«\\ A. 5o \V Cbamblim, omitted in for- mer act's 10
January It, Ain't paid S. S. Pooly'sac't, omitted in former
50 account.*, I •"
lv'»3.
April 23, Amount paid Rev. J. I). Williams on salary as per Uev. J. II. De Voile's order, . . July 4. Amount paid Rev. J. D. Williams as per Order drawn l>y Uev. J. II. DeVotle 25 Sept, 30, Amount paid Uev. J. I). Williams by Joshua Fos* lOterTrea*. of Tuscaloosa As-
10 sociatlon B. Society 23
10 Oct. 12, Ami paid Uev. J. I). Williams order in favor of M. P.Jewetl 12">
200
250
37
Cash Disbursed. ]K<}. Dec. 2. Uy Ain't of cash on |[)cc. 2, To Amount Cush on hunil, 8(J9 74 hand, 899 74
Total, 1810 97'
Your Auditing Committee find vouchors for all disbursements except for one charge of 25, dollars tho receipt for which Is in the letter from the Tunc*- loosa Bible Society. L. B LANK, Ch'm'n.
KRROR
Rkv. R. B. Tkaour resides at 'Warsaw, Ala., instead of Kutaw, as cm- braced in the minutes.
APOLOGY.
Consequent upon removing to this place, and making arrangements for the publication of our paper, and a variety of hindering causes which wo could neither foresee nor prevent, we have Vailed to get the minutes of the Convention ready for distribution until now. Hud wc anticipated such a delay, we should have refused to attempt their publication. As it is, we have to depend upon the known forbearance of our brethren, and hope to do better another time. — Editors South Wkstkrn Baptist.
March 4, 1854.
SAMFORD UNIVERSITY LIBRARY
1 1 00374055
Special Collections
GENERAL BX 1852-59
6470.1 c.2
.A4
Alabama Baptist State
Convention
Annual of the Alabama
Baptist State Convention
X ROOM USE ONLY
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