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1.  R\erson,  K-ertoii,  LL.l) 
4.  Rice,  Samuel  D..  !>.  I). 
7.  Carman,  Albeit,  D.I). 


.;.   Doutrlas,. George,  LL.l). 

5.  .Mrs.  S.  D.  Rice 

S.  Mrs.  Albert  Carman 


;j.  Williams,  J. A.,  D.D. 
6.  Mrs.  J.  A.  Williams 
n.  Stratton,  Rev.  F.  H. 


m 
THE  FIRST  CENTURY  OF 
METHODISM  IN  CANADA 


VOL.  II.     1840-1883 


BY 

J.  E.  SANDERSON,  M.A. 


"  Showing  to  the  generation  to  come  the 
praises  of  the  Lord  .  .  .  and  his  wonder- 
ful works  that  he  hath  done  .  .  .  That 
they  might  set  their  hope  in  God  and  not 
orget  the  works  of  God." 

—  Ps.  Ixxviii.  4-7. 


1^ 


TORONTO 

WILLIAM  BRIGGS 

1910 


Copyright,  Canada,  1910, 
William  Briggs 


BX 

€251 

SZ 


A   WORD   TO   OUR   READERS 


This  Volume  continues  the  record  of  Methodist  doings 
in  Canada  from  1840  to  the  grand  Union  of  1883.  In 
the  closing  chapters  will  be  found  welcome  contributions 
from  the  pens  of  the  Rev.  Robert  Cade,  D.D.,  the  Rev. 
James  M.  Simpson,  and  the  late  Rev.  George  Webber, 
regarding  their  several  Churches.  All  the  Uniting 
Churches  are  also  represented  in  our  comprehensive 
portrait  gallery,  according  to  their  numbers  at  the  time  of 
Union.  The  ministers  are  placed  according  to  the  date 
of  their  entrance.  The  women  as  well  as  the  men  who 
were  known  in  active  church  work  before  the  close  of  this 
volume  have  here  at  least  a  representation.  This  was 
done  under  the  oversight  of  seven  wise  men,  and  their 
desire  to  be  liberal  taxed  the  generosity  of  the  Publishers 
to  the  utmost  limit — "  a  hundred  and  fifty  and  three  " — 
though  they  would  have  gladly  included  hundreds  more, 
had  it  been  possible.  We  trust  these  will  be  accepted 
simply  as  representatives  of  "  the  great  multitude  which 
no  man  can  number." 

In  Volume  I.  a  few  corrections  are  necessary : 

The  engraving,  "  Grave  of  Paul  and  Barbara  Heck," 
was  intended  to  face  page  46,  where  the  place  of  burial- 
Augusta — is  correctly  stated.  On  page  63,  3rd  line,  read 
Madden;  page  119,  last  line,  James  should  be  Thomas; 
page  216,  near  the  bottom—"  On  December  i8th  a  meet- 
ing was  held  at  Saltfleet  attended  by  David  Gulp,"  etc. 

For  careful  reading  of  MS.  ^  the  Author  is  very 
specially  indebted  to  the  Rev.  Geo.  H.  Cornish,  LL.D. 

With  thanks  to  God  for  life  and  health  to  finish  this 
work,  it  is  now  committed  to  the  members  and  friends 
of  the  Methodist  Church,  as  an  appreciation  of  the  char- 
acter and  work  of  the  Church,  and  an  earnest  effort  to  tell 
to  our  own  and  succeeding  generations  something  of 
what  the  Lord  has  done. 

J.  E.  S. 

Toronto,  May  30th,  1910. 


CONTENTS 


I.  Dissolution  of  the   Union         -         -         -         -  ii 

II.  Active  Church  Work        -         -  ^      -         -         -  20 

III.  Rivalry  and  Its  Results 27 

IV.  Revivals,  East  and  West         -         -         -         -  35 
V.  Education  and  Missions           -         -         -         -  45 

VI.   The  Union  Restored 54 

VII.  Encouraging  Records 67 

VIII.  Extension  and  Union 83 

IX.  From  the  Atlantic  to  the  Pacific    -         -         -  95 

X.  Fields  Whitening  to  Harvest           -         -         -  112 

XI.  Canada  and  British  Columbia          .         -         -  123 

XII.   University  and  Colleges 141 

XIII.  The  Prince  of  Wales  and  Methodism    -         -  152 

XIV.  The  Field  and  the  Workmen           -         -         -  163 
XV.   Colleges  and  Churches 180 

XVI.   Missions  Become  Circuits        .         .         -         -  192 

XVII.  The  American  Centenary         ...         -  201 

XVIII.  England  and  Canada 217 

XIX.  Canada's  Enlarging  Sphere     .         -         -         -  227 

XX.   Insurrection  and  Loyalty          -         -         -         -  237 

XXI.  Home  and  Foreign  Missions  -         -         -         -  254 

XXII.  Diverse  Views  of  Union           ....  276 

XXIII.  Union  Arrangements  Accepted        ...  291 

XXIV.  Harmonious  Co-operation         ...         -  306 
XXV.  The  English  and  Other  Conferences       -         -  330 

XXVI.   Relief  and  Extension 346 

XXVII.  Ecumenical  Council  and  Union       -         -         -  367 

XXVIII.  The  Methodist  Church 385 

XXIX.   Primitive  Methodism  in  Canada     -         -         -  406 

XXX.  The  Methodist  Episcopal  Church   in    Canada  414 

XXXI.  The  Canada  Bible  Christian  Church       -         -  426 

Index 431 


PORTRAITS 


Many  of  these  portraits  and  titles  are  of  later  date  than  1883. 


Page 

Abbs,  Rev.  George 112 

Adams,  Miss  Mary  E.   ..  227 

Addison,  Rev.  Peter  254 

Aikens,  Hon.  James  C.  . .  112 

Allen,  Rev.  Jas.,  M.A.    ..  384 

Allison,   David,  LL.D.    ..  407 

Ames,  Rev.  William  67 

Andrews,  Rev.  Alfred   . .  201 

Antliffe,  J.  C,  M.A.,  D.D.  306 

Antliffe,   Mrs.   J.   C 306 

Badgley,  Erastus  I.,  LL.D.  276 

Biggar,   James   L 45 

Biggar,  Mrs.  L 45 

Bond,  Rev.  Stephen 201 

Boyle,  Robert,  D.D 112 

Brecken,      Ralph,      M.A., 

D.D 384 

Bredin,  John,  D.D 45 

Briggs,  Wm.,  D.D 254  ^ 

Briggs,    Mrs.   Wm 254 

Bristol,  Rev.  Emerson...  45 

Burns,  Rev.  William 141 

Burwash,    Rev.   J.,    M.A., 

LL.D 306 

Burwash,  Rev.  N.,  LL.D.  276 

Burwash,  Mrs.  N 276 

Cade,  Rev.  Robert,  D.D. .  201 

Campbell,  Rev.  Amos  . . .  276 

Campbell,  Rev.  Thos.   M.  306 

Carman,  Rev.  Albert,  D.D.  i 

Carman,  Mrs.  Albert i 

Cartmall,   Miss   Martha  J.  407 

Caswell,   Rev.   James    ...  67 

Cochran,    George,   D.D...  162 


Pag. 

Coleman,    Rev.    Francis . .  45 
Cornish,  Rev.  George  H., 

LL.D 227 

Crosby,  Rev.  Thomas   . . .  384 

Crosby,  Mrs.  Thomas  . . .  384 

Dean,  Judge,  W.  W 384 

Dewart,  Edward  H.,  D.D.  141 
Douglas,      Rev.      George, 

D.D.,   LL.D I 

Dyer,  W.  P.,  M.A.,  D.D.  407 

Elliott,  James,  D.D 45 

Edgar,  James,  M.D 162 

Ferrier,  Hon.  James   26 

Ferrier,  Mrs.  James   26 

Flanders,   Rev.   Rufus  A.  45 

Galley,  Mr.  Edward   180 

Galley,   Mrs.   Edward 180 

Gardiner,      Rev.      James, 

D.C.L 45 

Garner,   Rev.   John    67 

German,  John  F.,  D.D. . .  276 

German,   Rev.   Peter 180 

Gooderham,  Mrs.  James . .  346 

Graham,  Mr.  David 407 

Graham,   Rev.  James    . . .  254 

Griffin,  Wm.  S.,  D.D 112 

Griffith,      Rev.      Thomas, 

Ph.D ,. .  276 

Hare,    Rev.  John  J.,  Ph.D.  407 

Harper,  Ephraim  B.,  D.D.  45 

Henderson,  Wm.  C,  D.D.  227 

Hilts,  Rev.  Joseph  H.  . . .  254 
Holmes,     Rev.     A.     Lee, 

M.A 407 


PORTRAITS 


Page 

Huestis,  Stephen  F.,  D.D.  227 

Inch,  J.  R.,  LL.D 346 

Irwin,   Mr.   Robert    141 

Jackson,   Mr.   Edward    . .  162 

Jackson,  Mrs.  Edward  . .  162 

Jefferis,  Rev.  Thomas    . .  83 

Lake,  Mr.  John  N 346 

Langford,  Alexander,  D.D.  227 
Lounsbury,  Rev.  Edward  112 
McBride,  Mr.  William..  306 
McClure,  Rev.  William..  26 
McDonald,  Rev.  David- 
son, M.D 254 

McDonald,  Hon.  John...  83 

McDonagh,  Rev.  William  141 

McDougall,  Rev.  George.  141 

McDougall,  John,  D.D.  . .  346 

McLaren,  Judge  J.  J.   ...  346 

Manning,  Mr.  James  ....  180 

Markham,   Rev.   Joseph..  201 

Massey,  Mr.  Hart  162 

Massey,    Mr.    Chester    D.  407 

Mathewson,  Mr.  James  A.  83 
Meacham,      George      M., 

D.D 201 

Meacham,  Mrs.  George  M.  201 

Milligan,  George  S.,  LL.D.  180 

Milner,    Rev.    Jonathan..  180 

Morrison,  Rev.   Samuel..  67 
Nelles,  Rev.   S.   S.,  D.D., 

LL.D 83 

Norman,  Rev.  W.  E.   . . .  26 

O'Flynn,   Mr.  E.   D 384 

Parker,  William  R.,  D.D.  201 

Pascoe,  William  S.,  D.D.  180 

Pickard,  Humphrey,  D.D.  26 

Pirritte,  Wm.,  D.D 162 

Potts,  John,   D.D 227 

Punshon,     Wm.     Morley, 

LL.D 83 

Rice,   Samuel   D.,   D.D...  i 

Rice,  Mrs.  Samuel  D.    . .  i 

Robins,  Rev.  Paul   26 


Page 

Roberts,  Rev.  Edward  . .  227 

Robinson,  Mr.  George . . .  384 

Robinson,  Rev.  Joseph  H.  26 

Robson,  Ebenezer,  D.D...  180 

Rogerson,  Hon.  J.  J 254 

Rolston,  Rev.  David  D...  83 

Rolston,  Mrs.  David  D. . .  83 

Ross,  James  S.,  D.D 346 

Rutherford,  Mrs.  A.  O...  384 

Rutledge,  Mr.  C.  W 407 

Ryckman,      Edward      B., 

D.D 201 

Ryerson,    Egerton,    D.D., 

LL.D I 

Sanderson,     Rev.    Joseph 

E.,   M.A 141 

Savage,  Rev.  David  ....  112 
Shannon,     Hon.     S.     L., 

K.C.,    D.C.L 227 

Shaw,  Rev.  W.   I.,  LL.D.  306 

Simpson,   Rev.  James   M.  254 

Sparling,  Joseph  W.,  D.D.  346 
Stafford,    Rev.    Ezra    A., 

LL.D 254 

Stevenson,  Mr.  Edward..  67 

Stewart,    Charles,    D.D...  141 

Stone,  Samuel  G.,«D.D...  276 

Strachan,  Mrs.  E.  S 346 

Stratton,  Rev.  Fred.  B...  i 
Sutherland,       Alexander, 

D.D 201 

Sutherland,     Donald     G., 

D.D 306 

Swann,  Rev.  Matthew.  .  . .  141 

Taylor,  Lachlin,  D.D 26 

Torrance,  Mr.  David 67 

Torrance,  Mrs.  David  ...  67 

Vaux,    Mr.   Thomas    ....  162 

Wakefield,  John,  D.D.    ..  162 

Walker,  Mr.  Robert    112 

Wallace,  Francis  H.,  M.A., 

D.D 407 

Webber,  Rev.  George     . .  227 


ILLUSTRATIONS. 


Page 

Wilson,  Rev.  John  Carroll  162 
Withrow,  Wm.  H.,  M.A., 

D.D 384 

Woodsworth,  James,  D.D.  306 
Woodsworth,  Mr.  Richard  83 
Woodsworth,    Mrs.  Rich- 
ard      83 

Youmans,  Mrs.  Letitia  ..  141 

Young,  George,  D.D 67 

Young,  Rev.  Joseph   346 


We  regret  a  mistake,  too  late  t'^^r  correction,  in  placing 
the  likeness  of  the  Rev.  John  MoDougall  on  page  141,  where 
the  Rev.  George  McDougall  should  be,  and  the  Rev.  'George 
on  page  346,  where  the  Rev.  John  should  be. 


Page 

Webster,  Mr.  George   . . . 

26 

Webster,  Thomas,  D.D... 

67 

Whitlock,  Rev.  Jesse 

112 

Whitlock,  Mrs.  Jesse 

112 

Wilkes,  Robt,   M.P 

276 

Williams,  J.  A.,  D.D 

I 

Williams,  Mrs.  J.  A 

I 

Williams,      Thomas      G., 

D.D 

276 

Williams,  Wm.,  D.D.   ... 

180 

Williamson,  J.  S.,  D.D.  . . 

306 

ILLUSTRATIONS 


St.  James    Methodist  Church,  Montreal       -        -        -         -  iii 

Sydenham   Street   Methodist   Church,   Kingston   -         -         -  I79 

Maple  Leaf  and  Beaver       -------  161 

Methodist   Church,   Quebec  ------  226 

Annesley  Hall,  Toronto       -------  236 

Mount  Pleasant  Methodist  Church,  Vancouver,  B.C.  -         -  275 

Ontario   Ladies'   College,   Whitby         -----  286 

Wesley  College,  Winnipeg  -------  305 

Berkeley   Street   Methodist   Church,   Toronto       -         -         -  329 

Methodist  Church,   Strathcona     ------  366 

Metropolitan  Church,  Victoria,   B.C.   -----  384 

Albert    College,    Belleville    -------  414 

Methodist  Church  and  Parsonage,  Haileybury,  Ont.  -         -  425 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 


CHAPTER  I. 
1840. 


DISSOLUTION    OF    THE    UNION. 

Eastern  District  Meeting — Conference,  1840 — Friction — English 
objections  —  Canadian  Government — Alder — Ryerson — Stin- 
son — ^The  Judges — Committee — Charges — Clergy  Reserves — 
Richey — Delegates — Conference — Whitehead — Case — Dissolu- 
tion— Read  j  ustments. 

The  ministers  of  the  Canada  East  District  met  in  Mont- 
real, May  1st,  1840,  for  District  Meeting.  Edmund  S. 
Ingalls  and  John  B.  Selley  were  received  into  full  con- 
nection.    Total  of  members,  3,227;  increase,  341. 

Stations,  1840. 

Wm.  M.  Harvard,  Chairman. 

Quebec — William  M.  Harvard,  John  B.  Selley. 

Montreal — Robt.  L.  Lusher,  Wm.  Squire,  John  P.  Hetherington. 

Three  Rivers — Vacant  for  the  present. 

W esleyville — One  to  be  sent. 

Russelltown  and  Hinchinbrook — John  Rain,  Thomas  Campbell. 

Odelltown — ^Thomas  Turner. 

St.  Armand — Richard  Hutchinson,  Malcolm  McDonald. 

Dunham — John  B.  Brownell. 

Shefford — John  Tomkins. 

Stanstead — Robert  Cooney,  Henry  Lanton. 

Hatley  and  Conipton — Edmund  Botterell. 

Melbourne — John  Borland. 

New  Ireland — Edmund  S.  Ingalls. 

Editor  of  the  Wesleyan — Robert  L.  Lusher. 

The  Conference  of  1840  was  held  in  Belleville,  com- 
mencing- June  loth,  the  President,  Rev.  Joseph  Stinson, 
in  the  chair.  The  Rev.  Egerton  Ryerson  was  elected 
Secretary. 

II 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Received  into  full  connection — William  Willoughby, 
David  Hardie,  Stephen  Miles,  John  Lever,  Sylvester 
Hurlburt,  William  Scott,  Charles  B.  Goodrich. 

Twelve  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 

Districts.  Chairmen. 

London   Ephraim  Evans. 

Toronto Anson  Green. 

Bay  of  Quinte Matthew  Lang. 

Augusta    .......................  Henry  Wilkinson. 

Collected  for  Superannuation  Fund ^232.  14.  10. 

"     Contingent  "      £220.     4.    4 

Editor  of  the  Christian  Gimrdian, — Jonathan  Scott. 

Book  Steward — Anson  Green. 

The  Revs.  William  and  Egerton  Ryerson  were  ap- 
pointed Representatives  to  confer  with  the  Government 
on  all  matters  affecting  the  Church.  Moses  Blackstock, 
John  Sanderson,  Kennedy  Creighton  and  about  one  hun- 
dred members,  who  had  followed  Henry  Ryan,  were 
reinstated.  Reports  from  Upper  Canada  Academy,  the 
Book-Room,  and  Sunday  Schools,  were  very  satisfactory. 
The  Pastoral  Address  breathes  the  spirit  of  love  and 
mutual  confidence,  with  thanksgiving  for  success  and  no 
note  of  alarm  for  the  future. 

In  the  Address  to  the  English  Conference  regret  is 
expressed  that  the  representative  to  the  General  Confer- 
ence of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church — the  Rev.  Robt. 
Newton — did  not  also  visit  Canada.  '  We  also  deeply 
regret  that  any  diversity  of  opinion  should  threaten  the 
harmony  and  cordial  co-operation  of  the  British  and 
Canadian  Conferences.  We  most  anxiously  desire  to 
strengthen  and  perpetuate  the  Union,  and  to  adjust  all 
points  of  difference  between  us.  To  accomplish  these 
ends  we  have  appointed  the  Revs.  Egerton  and  William 
Ryerson  to  attend  your  approaching  Conference,  in  the 
hope  that  all  things  may  be  permanently  settled.  Our 
beloved  President  has  consented  to  accompany  them.' 

The  English  authorities  had  objected  to  what  they 
considered  the  political  character  of  the  Christian  Guar- 
dian, in  opposing  the  desires  of  the  Government  regard- 

12 


DISSOLUTION    OF   THE   UNION 

ing  the  Clergy  Reserves  and  the  establishing  of  the 
Church  of  England;  to  Egerton  Ryerson  also,  because 
of  his  influence  with  the  Government.  These  irritating 
difficulties  had  become  acute  during  the  year.  The  mis- 
sion of  Dr.  Alder  had  proved  practically  abortive.  His 
efforts  to  change  or  even  modify  Canadian  opinion  on 
the  grave  questions  he  was  deputed  to  settle  were  power- 
less. The  Methodists  of  this  new  country  would  not 
tolerate  a  Church  Establishment  ;  they  would  not  consent 
to  the  handing  over  of  one-seventh  of  their  grand  inherit- 
ance to  support  the  clergy  of  a  favored  church.  No  such 
provision  had  been  considered  in  the  Articles  of  Union. 
The  endangering  of  the  thousand  pound  grant  to  the 
English  Missionary  Committee  was  esteemed  but  a  straw 
in  the  balance.  But  Dr.  Alder's  consultation  with  the 
Government,  before  leaving  Canada,  and  subsequent  com- 
munications were  fraught  with  evil  consequences. 

The  Canadian  Government,  obstructed  and  thwarted  in 
schemes  of  Church  aggrandizement  by  the  persistent  and 
unyielding  opposition  of  Canadian  churches,  hoped,  with 
the  aid  of  English  Methodist  authority,  to  stem  the  tide 
of  Canadian  opposition.  To  such  overtures  the  English 
missionary  authorities  lent  a  too  willing  ear.  Hence  the 
coming  of  Rev.  Robt.  Alder,  in  1833,  with  a  dozen  mis- 
sionaries, to  invade  the  peaceful  domain  of  Upper  Canada 
Methodism.  But  these  plans  miscarried,  and  instead  the 
Union  was  consummated.  For  seven  years  disappointed 
hopes  lay  dormant,  but  the  ultimate  aim  was  not  aban- 
doned. When  the  moment  seemed  opportune,  the  effort 
was  renewed.  The  Governor,  Sir  George  Arthur,  sought 
by  correspondence  to  influence  the  Missionary  Committee 
in  London  against  the  Editor  and  the  Organ  of  Canadian 
Methodism  as  intensely  political.  Such  representations 
paved  the  way  for  Dr.  Alder's  second  mission  to  Canada, 
early  in  1839.  But  again  he  found  the  trend  and  solidar- 
ity of  Canadian  sentiment  irresistible  and  bowed  to  the 
inevitable.  Had  the  Conference  and  the  Editor  yielded 
to  the  desires  of  Sir  George  Arthur's  Government,  and 

13 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

the  suggestions  of  the  London  Missionary  Committee, 
one-seventh  of  the  lands  of  the  province  might  now  be 
held  by  the  Church  of  England. 

Dr.  Alder  had  brought  a  letter  from  the  Missionary 
Secretaries  to  Sir  George  Arthur,  condemnatory  of  the 
Guardian  and  its  Editor.  This  letter  was  published  in 
the  Patriot,  copied  into  the  Guardian,  and  answered  be- 
fore the  Hamilton  Conference.  Dr.  Alder's  reply  fol- 
lowed. The  Revs.  Joseph  Stinson  and  Matthew  Richey 
had  been  parties  to  the  election  of  Egerton  Ryerson,  as 
Editor,  in  1838,  and  shared  with  their  brethren  in  resist- 
ing High  Church  claims.  The  Conference  of  1836,  in  an 
Address  to  the  King,  duly  signed  by  the  Rev.  William 
Lord,  President,  said  : 

"We,  together  with  the  :great  majority  of  vour  loyal 
and  devoted  Canadian  subjects,  are  conscientiouslv  and 
firmly  opposed  to  the  recognition  of  any  Church  Estab- 
lishment within  this  Province." 

Egerton  Ryerson  was  then  in  England.  In  1837  the 
Conference  adopted  a  series  of  resolutions  equally  de- 
cided, under  the  presidency  of  the  Rev.  William  M. 
Harvard.  On  the  7th  of  April,  1838,  Mr.  Stinson  wrote 
Mr.  John  Ryerson. 

"  I  am  quite  of  your  opinion  that  Brother  Egerton 
Ryerson  ought  to  take  the  Guardian  next  year.  There  is 
a  crisis  approaching  in  our  affairs,  which  will  require  a 
vig^orous  hand  to  wield  the  defensive  weapon  of  our 
Conference.  There  can  be  no  two  ooinions  as  to  whom 
to  give  that  weapon.  We  now  stand  on  fair  grounds  to 
maintain  our  own  against  the  encroachments  of  the  oli- 
garchy, and  we  must  do  it  or  sink  into  a  comparatively 
uninfluential  body.     This  must  not  be." 

The  Rev.  Egerton  Ryerson  wrote  the  Hon.  W.  H. 
Draper  :  "  The  14th  George  III.  secured  His  Majesty's 
subjects  professing  the  Roman  Catholic  faith  in  the  free 
exercise  of  their  religion,  and  their  clergy  in  the  enjoy- 
ment of  their  accustomed  dues  and  rights,  .  .  .  with 
an  explanatory  proviso,  that  His  Majesty  might  make 

14 


DISSOLUTION    OF   THE   UNION 

provision  '  for  the  encouragement  of  the  Protestant  reli- 
gion, and  for  the  maintenance  of  a  Protestant  clergy' — 
not  for  any  one  class  of  Protestants,  but  of  the  *  Protestant 
religion.'  With  this  agree  the  opmions  of  Her  Majesty's 
Judges  in  England :  '  We  are  all  of  opinion  that  the 
words,  "  a  Protestant  clergy,"  are  large  enough  to  in- 
clude and  do  include  other  clergy  than  those  of  the 
Church  of  England,  ....  and  appear  to  us,  both 
in  their  natural  force  and  meaning,  and  still  more  from 
the  context  in  which  they  are  found,  to  be  there  used  to 
designate  and  intend  a  clergy  opnosed  in  doctrine  and 
discipline  to  the  clergy  of  the  Church  of  Rome;  and 
rather  to  aim  at  the  encouragement  of  the  Protestant  re- 
ligion in  opposition  to  the  Romish  Church  than  to  point 
exclusively  to  the  clergy  of  the  Church  of  England.' " 

Both  editorially  and  before  the  Conference  Mr.  Ryer- 
son  clearly  declared  his  views : 

*  In  resnect  to  the  Ecclesiastical  affairs  of  this  "Prov- 
ince. I  still  adhere  to  the  orinciples  noon  which  T  set 
out  in  t8<'6.  T  believe  th^t  the  endowment  of  the  clerev 
of  anv  Church  in  this  Province  would  be  an  evil  to 
that  Church  as  well  as  impolitic  in  the  Government. 
.  .  .  T  believe  that  the  aonrooriatinn  of  the  Clerp-v 
Reserves  to  Educational  pnrooses  will  he  the  most  satis- 

fnctorv  disposal  that  can  be  m?de  of  them 

The  present  is  an  epoch  in  the  affairs  of  this  countrv  in 
which  no  man  of  intelli^rence  can  be  iustifiablv  neutral. 
.  .  .  .  My  decision,  however,  is  not  one  of  partv  but 
of  principle :  not  of  passion  btit  of  conviction  :  not  of 
partial  proscription  but  of  equitable  comprehension.' 

These  are  but  brief  extracts  from  an  address  of  two 
hours,  after  which  Mr.  Ryerson  was  re-elected  Editor 
by  a  vote  of  fortv-one  to  sixteen. 

The  Wesleyan  Committee,  in  London,  instructed  Mr. 
Stinson  to  sunport  a  Church  Establishment  but  the  pro- 
ject was  disallowed  bv  the  Home  Government.  In  that 
disallowance  the  decided  opposition  from  Canada  was  a 
strong  factor.     By  the  same  influence,  in  the  following 

15  . 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

year,  the  objectionable  clauses  were  expung-ed  from  a 
Bill,  sent  home  by  the  new  Governor,  the  Right  Hon.  C. 
Poulett  Thompson. 

To  the  Canada  Conference  of  1840  the  Wesleyan  Mis- 
sionary Committee,  London,  sent  charges  against  the 
Rev.  Egerton  Ryerson,  for — 

1.  Practically  superseding  Rev.  J.  Stinson  in  com- 
munications with  the  Government. 

2.  In  attempting  to  secure  for  the  Canada  Conference 
the  grant  made  to  the  Wesleyan  iVlissionary  Society. 

3.  In  allowing  the  Guardian  to  become  political. 

The  Committee  hoped  the  Conference  would  repudiate 
these  acts  of  the  Editor ;  but,  if  not,  it  would  become  the 
painful  duty  of  the  Committee  to  recommend  the  next 
British  Conference  to  dissolve  the  Union  and  adopt  such 
measures  for  the  maintenance  and  extension  of  the  Indian 
missions  in  Upper  Canada  as  might  appear  necessary. 

The  charges  were  presented  by  the  Rev.  M.  Richey 
and  received  full  consideration.  It  transpired  in  evidence 
that  the  Revs.  Stinson  and  Richey,  on  the  2ik1  of  January, 
1840,  in  an  interview  with  the  Government,  had  informed 
His  Excellency  that  the  Union  between  the  English  and 
Canadian  Conferences  was  expected  to  be  dissolved,  and 
they  embodied  their  views  in  a  memorial  : 

"  The  Church  of  England  being  in  our  estimation  the 
Established  Church  of  all  the  British  Colonies,  we  en- 
tertain no  objections  to  the  distinct  recognition  of  her 
as  such ;  and  had  the  Reserves  been  exclusively  appro- 
priated to  her  ....  we  should  not  have  interfered ; 
but  as  the  disposition  of  them  has  been  referred  to  the 
Colonial  Legislature,  we  confess  we  are  entirely  at  a 
loss  to  conceive  why  the  Wesleyan  IMethodist  Church 
should  be  placed  in  any  degree  inferior  to  the  Church 
of  Scotland  ....  In  any  settlement  of  this  important 
question  we  regard  it  of  vital  importance  to  the  perma- 
nent peace  and  prosperity  of  the  Province,  as  a  British 
Colony,  that  the  sum  to  be  appropriated  to  us  be  given 
to  the  Wesleyan  Methodists  who  are  now  or  who  may 

16 


DISSOLUTION    OF   THE   UNION 

be  hereafter  connected  with  the  British  Wesleyan  Con- 
ference." 

In  supporting  the  Report  of  the  House  of  Commons 
on  the  Civil  Government  of  Canada,  the  Secretary  of 
State  for  the  Colonies,  Lord  Stanley,  said  :  '  If  any  ex- 
clusive privileges  were  given  to  the  Church  of  England, 
not  only  will  the  measure  be  repugnant  to  every  principle 
of  sound  legislation,  but  contrary  to  the  spirit  and  inten- 
tions of  the  Act  of  1 791,  under  which  the  Reserves  were 
made  for  the  Protestant  clergy.'  Not  so,  Messrs.  Stin- 
son  and  Richey ! 

On  receipt  of  the  above  Memorial,  His  Excellency  sent 
for  Mr.  Ryerson,  who  supplied  him  with  documentary 
evidence  of  the  relations  between  the  two  Conferences. 

In  regard  to  Mr.  Ryerson's  alleged  interference  with 
the  prerogatives  of  the  President,  the  Conference  consid- 
ered that  he  had  done  only  what  he  was  specially  appoint- 
ed to  do.  It  refused  to  recognize  the  rights  of  the  Commit- 
tee to  interfere  in  internal  affairs,  except  as  provided  in 
the  Articles  of  Union,  and  admitted  no  control  of  views 
or  proceedings  regarding  the  Clergy  Reserves ;  nor  would 
it  acknowledge  the  right  of  the  Committee  to  accuse  and 
condemn  a  member  of  the  Conference,  and  then  to  exact 
compliance  on  pain  of  a  dissolution  of  the  Union.  It  also 
refused  to  acknowledge  the  President  appointed  in  Eng- 
land to  be,  by  virtue  of  his  office,  the  "  Agent  and  Repre- 
sentative of  the  Wesleyan  Body  in  Upper  Canada,"  in 
dealing  with  the  Government. 

The  claim  of  the  Committee  to  the  possession  and  con- 
trol of  the  Indian  missions  the  Conference  repudiated,  as 
those  missions  were  nearly  all  established  before  the 
Union. 

Believing  that  the  Committee  had  acted  under  misap- 
prehension, the  Conference  resolved  to  remove,  if  pos- 
sible, the  misunderstanding  by  sending  Delegates.  Having 
attended  the  English  Conference,  the  Delegates  returned 
to  Toronto  September  20th.      On  the  23rd  a  call  was 

17 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

issued  for  a  Special  Conference,  to  meet  in  Toronto  on 
the  22nd  of  October  to  receive  their  report.  Before 
leaving  England  the  Delegates  had  published  a  pamphlet 
containing  the  documents  and  official  correspondence,  the 
substance  of  which  appeared  also  in  the  Guardian.  The 
Conference  opened  at  9  o'clock,  October  22nd,  1840.  The 
Rev.  Thomas  Whitehead  was  appointed  Chairman. 

After  preliminary  consideration  of  the  holding  of  a 
Special  Conference  and  meeting  of  the  Districts  the  Con- 
ference assembled.  Eighty  ministers  were  present.  The 
Rev.  Wm.  Case  was  elected  President,  and  the  Rev.  John 
C.  Davidson  Secretary.  The  Rev.  Egerton  Ryerson  pre- 
sented the  report  of  the  Delegates.  A  motion  for  its 
reception  led  to  lengthy  discussion,  after  which  it  was 
referred  to  a  committee,  which  recommended  its  recep- 
tion ;  also  expressed  dissatisfaction  with  the  treatment 
the  Delegates  had  received,  and  regret  that  the  British 
Conference  had  decided  to  withdraw  from  the  Union. 

Eleven  resolutions  were  adopted  by  the  Conference, 
and  afterwards  published  in  the  minutes ;  also  other  reso- 
lutions in  regard  to  future  action.  Members  and  friends 
of  the  Church  were  freely  admitted  to  hear  the  discus- 
sions. Religious  services  were  held  in  the  evenings.  Fri- 
day was  observed  as  a  day  of  fasting  and  prayer.  The 
privileges  of  Sunday  were  restful  and  refreshing.  The 
Conference  sessions  continued  until  the  29th. 

Eleven  ministers  decided  to  cast  in  their  lots  with  the 
British  Conference — Ephraim  Evans,  John  Douse.  Ben- 
jamin Slight,  James  Norris,  Thomas  Fawcett,  William 
Scott,  James  Brock,  John  G.  Manly,  Charles  B.  Good- 
rich, Edmund  Stoney,  and  William  Case.  Later  William 
Steer,  John  Sunday  and  Thomas  Hurlburt  withdrew. 
Joseph  Stinson,  Matthew  Richey,  and  Matthew  Lang 
were  already  connected  with  the  English  Conference. 

Mr.  Case  expressed  his  strong  attachment  to  his  Cana- 
dian brethren  and  his  desire  to  continue  in  the  Missions. 

18 


DISSOLUTION    OF   THE   UNION 

Others  spoke  similarly,  all  regretting  the  division  and 
hoping  that  peace  might  be  restored. 

"  We  listened  with  indescribable  emotion  to  the  ex- 
pressions of  attachment  from  those  who  went  out  from 
us.  We  wept  that  human  frailty  should  stand  in  the  way 
of  unity  ;  and  while  we  conscientiously  differed  with 
those  taking  what  seemed  to  us  an  unwise  departure, 
we  regarded  them  with  sincere  affection." 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Whitehead  was  elected  President. 
He  was  in  his  seventy-eighth  year,  and  the  fifty-third 
of  his  ministry. 

Some  necessary  adjustments  were  made  in  the  Sta- 
tions. Several  circuits  were  united.  Some  missions  were 
allowed  to  remain  in  charge  of  ministers  who  had  with- 
drawn, but  the  Missionary  District,  as  such,  disappeared. 
The  Canada  missionary  treasury  was  empty,  and  the 
missionaries  in  urgent  need  of  their  allowances.  Review- 
ing the  situation,  Egerton  Ryerson  closed  an  address  of 
five  ihours  with  these  words :  *  We  have  surveyed  every 
inch  of  the  ground  on  which  we  stand.  We  have  offered 
to  concede  everything  but  what  appertains  to  our  char- 
acter and  operations  as  a  Methodist  Church.  The  stand 
we  take  is  Methodistic,  is  rational,  is  just.  The  declara- 
tions of  those  who  leave  us  attest  this.  They  are 
compelled  to  pay  homage  to  our  character,  as  a  body; 
they  cannot  impeach  our  doctrines,  or  discipline,  or  prac- 
tice; nor  can  they  sustain  a  single  objection  to  our 
principles  or  standing.  The  very  reasons  they  assign 
for  secession  are  variable,  indefinite,  personal,  or  trivial. 
But  the  reasons  for  our  position  and  unity  are  tangible, 
are  definite,  are  Methodistic,  are  unanswerable.* 


19 


CHAPTER  II. 


ACTIVE  CHURCH  WORK. 

Camp-meetings — Rundle — Hurlburt — Evans — Currie,  Young,  Mis- 
sions— Hamilton — Mrs.  Hurlburt — Mississippi — Revivals — 
London — Bay  of  Quinte — British — Ottawa — Liberality — Wil- 
ton— Waterloo — S.  Schools — Locations — U.  C.  Academy — 
Eastern  work. 

During  the  summer  the  ministers  successfully  prose- 
cuted their  work.  Several  successful  camp-meetings 
were  held.  New  churches  were  opened  in  Newcastle, 
Brighton,  Trent,  Vaughan,  Albion,  etc. 

The  Chairman  of  the  Toronto  District  writes,  Septem- 
ber loth  : 

*  The  ministers  generally  are  in  very  good  spirits  and 
full  of  expectation.  The  Quarterly  Meeting  at  New- 
market was  followed  by  several  conversions ;  at  Tyler's, 
Yonge  street,  thirty  or  forty  seekers  during  the  week ;  a 
most  fortunate  combination  of  Camp  and  Quarterly 
Meeting  on  the  Albion  circuit ;  blessed  results  attend- 
ing the  labors  of  teachers,  exhorters  and  class  leaders.' 

At  a  camp-meeting  on  the  London  circuit  sixty  or 
seventy  professed  conversion ;  nearly  as  many  on  the  St. 
Clair  mission — Indians  and  Whites. 

A  two-days'  meeting,  begun  in  the  woods  at  Kempt- 
ville,  grew  into  an  extensive  revival. 

The   Chairman   of  the  Ottawa  district  writes : 

'  Greater  toil  and  richer  harvests  than  ever ;  revivals, 
camp-meetings,  quarterly  meetings — all  seasons  of  re- 
freshing. In  Richmond,  Ottawa  and  Mississippi  over 
two  hundred  declaring  what  the  Lord  had  done  for 
them.' 

20  ' 


ACTIVE   CHURCH   WORK 

From  Malahide,  Barrie,  Grimsby,  Muncey,  Gosfield, 
etc.,  the  preachers  write  of  ingatherings. 

Extracts  from  the  diary  of  Rev.  Robert  T.  Rundle, 
from  Lachine  to  Edmonton,  as  the  pioneer  of  Methodism. 
After  grateful  reference  to  the  kindness  of  Montreal 
friends,  the  heroic  young  Cornish  missionary  proceeds : 

April  2nd,  1840 — We  started  from  Lachine,  up  the 
Ottawa,  interrupted  by  currents  and  foaming  cataracts. 

May  2nd — Left  the  great  Ottawa  at  the  Company's 
Fort — Mattawan — and  proceeded  towards  Lake  Huron, 
listening  to  the  cataract  thundering  in  solitude,  through 
lakes,  embosomed  in  woods. 

4th — Reached  Lake  Nipissing  and  went  down  French 
River,  ninety  miles  a  day. 

9th — Arrived  at  Sault  Ste.  Marie,  and  entered  the 
crystal  waters  of  Lake  Superior. 

17th — Reached  Fort  William;  left  our  large  canoe, 
and  in  two  smaller  ones  through  Dog  Lake,  Lake  of  a 
Thousand  Islands,  Ridge  and  Croix  Lakes,  Rainy  Lake ; 
and,  27th,  Rat  Portage ;  excessively  hot — 92  in  the  shade ; 
29th,  arrived  at  the  Falls  of  Point-du-Bois ;  the  whole 
hemisphere  illuminated  by  the  Aurora  Borealis. 

30th— Reached  Slave  Falls ;  next  day  Fort  Alexander, 
at  the  extremity  of  Lake  Winnipeg;  observed  eagles, 
geese,  ducks,  pelicans,  etc.,  and  met  large  floats  of  ice. 

June  5th — Entered  Jack  River,  and  reached  Norway 
House  in  the  evening. 

Rev.  Thomas  Hurlburt  tells  of  his  work  on  Lake  Su- 
perior, teaching  about  twenty  Indian  children,  and  con- 
templating a  tour  to  Hudson's  Bay. 

From  Oxford  »House  Rev.  James  Evans  writes,  Aug. 
9th,   1840  : 

'  I  reached  Norway  House  with  my  wife  and  daughter 
July  28th,  three  months  and  seventeen  days  after  leaving 
Guelph.  Mrs.  Evans'  health  has  been  good  generally, 
and  Clarissa's  has  decidedly  improved.  They  succeeded 
in  climbing  and  walking  the  portages,  three,  five,  some- 
times nine  miles  a  day,  camping  in  all  kinds  of  weather 
and  living  on  all  kinds  of  provisions.  We  find  the  fields 
"  white  unto  the  harvest."     Little  did  I  think  when  you 

21 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

sent  me  to  Rice  Lake  that  I  should  wander  hither. 
But,  glory  to  God,  I  am  as  happy  here  as  anywhere. 
Norway  House  is  my  home,  when  I  am  there.  I  spent 
five  days  getting  my  family  made  as  comfortable  as  pos- 
sible ;  then  started  for  York  Factory  to  meet  the  ship 
from  England.  I  purpose,  on  snow  shoes,  to  visit  all 
my  posts,  if  practicable,  and  I  look  for  God's  blessing.' 

On  July  29th,  1840,  Peter  Jacobs  wrote  from  Lac  La 
Pluie  : 

'  Two  thousand  miles  from  Toronto,  four  months 
pulling  at  the  ash  oar,  rivers,  lakes,  portages  —  never 
worked  so  hard  before ;  but  forgot  all  my  troubles  see- 
ing so  many  Indians.  I  find  them  firm  in  their  idolatry, 
holding  councils  against  Christianity  and  warning  their 
young  men.  Yet  some  give  me  encouragement.  We 
have  been  out  of  provisions  for  a  week,  but,  thank  God, 
plenty  of  berries.  Mr.  Evans  passed  a  month  ago.  All 
well.     Pray  for  us.' 

From  Perth,  Rev.  James  Currie  writes  : 
'  On  Sabbath    last,  up    to    midnight,    the    altar    was 
crowded  with  penitents.     Before  I  left  for  Special  Con- 
ference eighteen  had  found  peace.     Our  exhorters  and 
leaders  continued  the  work.' 

For  the  Rideau  circuit  Rev.  William  Young  says : 

'  The  Rev.  H.  Wilkinson  came  to  our  Quarterly  Meet- 
ing. Love-feast  refreshing;  many  seekers  in  the  even- 
ings following,  and  about  thirty  professed  conversion. 
Five  new  appointments — making  17.' 

The  Indian  missions  at  The  Narrows,  Coldwater, 
Snake  Island,  and  Rama,  decided  unanimously  to  remain 
under  the  Canada  Conference. 

'  The  proceedings  of  the  Special  Conference  give  gen- 
eral satisfaction.'     Thomas  Bevitt. 

'  The  Lord  is  with  us.  The  interest  taken  in  missions 
is  most  cheering.'     Wellington  Jeffers. 

'  In  Hamilton  one  gentleman  offered  $100,  another 
$40,  others  $20,  $10,  and  smaller  sums  until  we  had 
over  $400 — six  times  the  amount  of  last  year.  These 
offerings  say  the  missions  of  the  Canada  Conference 
shall  be  sustained.' 

22 


ACTIVE   CHURCH   WORK 

From  her  far-away  Lake  Superior  home,  Mrs.  Thomas 
Hurlburt  writes  her  parents,  Dec.  20th,  1840  : 

'  This  is  the  Holy  Sabbath  evening,  and  with  an  over- 
flowing heart  I  must  tell  you  of  our  prosperity.  We 
can  say  of  a  truth — the  Lord  is  with  us.  Four  of  our 
Indians  give  good  evidence  of  a  change  of  heart,  and 
several  more  are  anxiously  seeking.  Two  adults  were 
baptized  this  evening,  making  sixteen,  and  twenty-nine 
children.  I  do  not  lament  my  situation,  never  did,  never 
expect  to,  although  I  highly  prize  and  often  sigh  for 
civilized  Christian  society.     Pray  for  us.' 

The  Rev.  John  Black  tells  of  good,  protracted,  Bible 
and  missionary  meetings :  '  The  fall  of  1840  was  a  dark 
time  in  our  Wesleyan  atmosphere,  but  we  look  for  no 
eclipse  on  our  Zion  in  1841.' 

'  On  the  Mississippi  Circuit  since  Conference  about 
one  hundred  have  been  brought  to  know  their  sins  for- 
given. Lanark,  Ramsay,  Pakenham,  and  Fitzroy  have 
shared  in  the  refreshing.  Messrs.  Bellamy  and  Dixon, 
though  not  members  of  our  Church,  have  made  pro- 
posals for  the  building  of  two  much-needed  churches. 
Our  parsonage,  though  not  finished,  is  occupied.  The 
dissolution  of  the  Union  is  regretted,  but  the  action  of 
our  Conference  is  generally  approved.  Every  wheel 
runs  smoothly  under  the  direction  of  the  great  Head  of 
the  Church  and  the  propelling  power  of  the  Holy  Spirit.' 

— Alva  Adams. 

The  Waterloo  Circuit  rejoiced  in  extensive  revivals: 
*  Our  friends  are  strongly  attached    to    the    Canada 
Conference.     We   expect  the   old   ship  will   outride   all 
the  storms  and  have  no  fear;  the  Captain  is  at  the  helm.' 

Similar  notes  of  cheer  come  from  Prescott,  Matilda, 
Hallowell,  Grimsby,  etc. 

At  the  opening  of  the  new  church  in  St.  Thomas,  on 
January  loth,  185 1,  the  liberality  of  the  people  was  equal 
to  the  demand,  and  general  prosperity  attended  the  circuit. 

23 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

In  Guelph  fifty  of  the  sixty  members  held  to  the  Canada 
Conference.  Missionary  meetings  in  Howard,  Romney, 
Gosfield,  Colchester,  Camden  and  Thames  circuits  had  full 
houses  and  liberal  offerings.  Long  drives  over  circuits 
sixty  or  eighty  miles  in  extent  taxed  the  energies  of  the 
missionaries,  but  they  found  open  doors  and  anxious 
hearers  in  the  new  settlements — soon  to  become  fruitful 
fields.  The  same  deputation — Revs.  Wm.  Ryerson  and 
Anson  Green — visited  Jersey,  St.  George,  Brantford, 
Woodstock,  etc.,  and  witnessed  cheering  developments  of 
liberaHty.  The  London  district  was  estimated  at  £500 — 
five  times  as  much  as  in  the  previous  year. 

On  the  Bay  of  Quinte  District  contributions  were 
approaching  £700;  spiritual  results  also  good. 

Newburgh,  formerly  '"  Rogues'  Hollow,"'  was  proving 
true  to  its  new  name — sober  instead  of  drunken. 

'  About  thirty  conversions  at  Napanee ;  over  a  hun- 
dred on  the  circuit.  Meetings  for  seven  weeks.  The 
Lord  has  sustained  us.' 

The  Cramahe  Female  Missionary  Society  held  its  four- 
teenth anniversary,  reporting  £12.  This  was  probably 
our  first  Women's  Missionary  Society. 

'Was  ever  the  Missionary  Society  sustained  as  now? 
Have  we  not  more  revivals  than  ever  since  the  union 
of  1833?     Glorious  success.' — Editor. 

In  Toronto,  Hamilton,  Brantford,  St.  Clair,  Goderich, 
Guelph,  Belleville,  Peterborough,  Kingston,  and  some 
other  places,  the  British  missionaries  were  at  work,  and 
in  May  reported  1,500  members. 

Very  favorable  notices  appeared  of  the  revival  in  Que- 
bec under  Rev.  James  Caughey. 

Eastern  missionary  tour — Lachute,  ii2  15s.;  St. 
Andrews,  about  the  same  and  a  gold  ring;  L'Orignal, 
£11;  Papineau  Seignory,  £10;  Bytown.  a  missionary 
tea,  given  by  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Henry  Bishoprick;  over- 
flowing congregations  Sunday;  unprecedented  enthusi- 
asm at  the  meeting,  James  F.  Taylor,  Esq.,  presiding, 
£62;  Aylmer,  £15;  twenty  miles  to  M'Gee's ;  Goulbourn, 
£7    3s. — first     meeting    there;     Shillington's     £5     12s.; 

24 


ACTIVE   CHURCH   WORK 

thirteen  miles  to  Carlton,  eloquent  speech  by  Lachlin 
Taylor,  £9 ;  Dickson's  Mills,  Pakenham,  where  the  Holy 
Spirit  has  been  poured  out  as  floods  upon  the  dry 
ground,  £110  subscribed  for  a  chapel.  In  Mr.  Dickson's 
new  store,  fitted  up  for  the  occasion,  about  four  hun- 
dred assembled,  £27;  Boyd's  chapel,  Lanark,  £13. 
What  we  have  seen  during  these  few  weeks  assures  us 
that  the  people  will  stand  by  the  Canada  Methodist 
Church.' 

'  Port  Hope  was  reported  for  £40 ;  Cobourg,  from 
key  note  of  £10  from  the  Chairman,  Ebenezer  Perry, 
Esq.,  £75 ;  Colborne,  £10,  and  about  as  much  more  from 
the  F.  M.  S.;  Belleville,  £40;  Consecon,  £15;  Hallowell, 
£34,  with  smaller  sums  from  several  other  places.' 

In  Wilton  a  new  stone  church,  costing  £400,  had  been 
built.  At  the  opening  a  gentleman  who  had  contributed 
£75  was  converted,  and  many  others  shortly  after. 
Through  Portland  and  Loughborough  to  Waterloo  the 
improvement  in  the  country  was  very  marked ;  good 
farms  and  well-built  houses.  The  Waterloo  chapel, ^yas 
still  held  by  the  seceders,  though  used  very  seldom,  but 
the  school-house  was  filled  and  £16  contributed;  King- 
ston £167 — not  surpassed  even  by  Toronto.  The  city 
was  in  a  state  of  pleasurable  excitement,  having  been 
chosen  Capital  of  the  United  Provinces.  On  the  way 
through  a  rough  and  sterile  country  a  midday  meeting 
was  held  at  Cowan's,  and  at  Gananoque  in  the  evening, 
£15,  though  there  was  but  one  Methodist  family  in  the 
village,  that  of  Ebal  Webster,  Esq.,  by  whom  we  were 
kindly  entertained.  The  next  day  we  drove  forty-five 
miles  through  cold  and  snowdrifts  to  Keeler's,  halting 
at  Mallorytown  for  dinner  with  Mr.  Purvis,  who  gave 
us  a  sad  record  of  divisions,  nearly  half  their  members 
having  joined  the  Ryanites  or  Episcopals.' 

In  April,  1841,  the  Secretary  of  the  Kingston  Sunday 
School  reported :  '  That  the  school  reorganized  Nov. 
15th,  1840,  with  19  teachers  and  49  scholars,  had  in- 
creased to  23  teachers  and   117  scholars,  with    a    good 

25 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

supply  of  books,  money  in  the  treasury  and  deep 
spiritual  interest.' 

James  Parcells,  Secretary  of  the  Sunday  School  in 
Cummer's  chapel,  Yonge  Street,  in  his  report,  April  5th, 

1841,  says:  'As  far  as  I  know,  this  school  has  been 
established  upwards  of  twenty-five  years,  and  Mr.  Seneca 
Ketchum  was  its  founder.  The  teachers  generally  were 
once  scholars  in  the  school.  Nearly  everybody  near  us 
has  contributed  to  its  support,  and  we  find  that  union  is 
strength.  Still  more  remarkable,  all  late  troubles,  politi- 
cal or  religious,  have  never  been  able  to  make  a  division 
in  our  school.     We  would  that  this  were  universal.' 

According  to  Bishop  Soule,  smce  the  organization  of 
the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  the  United  States, 
2,300  ministers  have  located,  few  of  them  having  travel- 
led over  ten  years.  In  Canada  also,  locations  have  been 
too  numerous,  though  probably  few  preachers  left  the 
work  until  compelled  by  necessity,  and  thereafter  doing- 
good  service  in  local  spheres.  _ 

*  The  Upper  Canada  Academy,'  writes  Rev.  E.  Ryer- 
son,  '  has  now  been  in  operation  five  years  and  upwards 
of  four  hundred  students  have  attended ;  ^et  the  only 
public  aid  it  has  received  was  a  grant  of  £200  last  year. 
Were  it  properly  endowed,  it  could  be  filled  with  male 
students,  so  as  to  render  a  separate  Female  Seminary 
advisable.' 

A  hundred  members  were  added  to  tho  Church  at 
Kemptville,  and  a  stone  parsonage  was  begun. 

For  the  Augusta  circuit  a  house  and  five  acres  of  land 
were  purchased. 

The  Rideau  circuit  had  an  increase  of  seventy-five 
members,  and  built  a  new  parsonage.  Other  circuits 
were  making  similar  progress. 

The  District  Meeting  for  Lower  Canada  was  held  in 
Montreal,  in  May,  1841,  and  attended  by  twenty  minis- 
ters. Henry  Lanton  and  Thomas  Campbell  were  received 
into  full  connection  ;  John  F.  Elliott  and  Rufus  A. 
Flanders  on  trial.       Increase  of  members,  452. 

26 


1.  llobins,  lle\ .  I'aul 
4.  Ferrier,  Hon.  James 
7.  Norman,  Kev.  W.  E. 


■J.  McClure,  Kev.  Win. 
.').  Mrs.  James  Ferrier 
S.  Pickard,  Humphrey,  D.D. 


;;.  liobiii.son,  Kev.  .1.  II. 
6.  Taylor,  Lachlin,  D.U. 
9.  Webster,  Mr.  George 


CHAPTER  III. 

1841-2. 

RIVALRY  AND  ITS  RESULTS. 

Conference — Good  prospects — Victoria  College — Tour — Heck — 
Prince  of  Wales — Neelands — Missions — S.  Schools — Wes- 
leyans — Conference,  1842 — Ladies'  Seminary — Millerism — 
Licenses — Missionary  meetings — Eastern  District. 

The  Conference  of  1841  was  held  in  Toronto,  com- 
mencing on  the  9th  of  June.  The  Rev.  Wm.  Ryerson, 
President  ;  Rev.  Anson  Green,  Secretary. 

Into  full  connection — William  Coleman,  George  Good- 
son,  Kennedy  Creighton,  George  R.  Sanderson,  Wel- 
lington Jeffers,   George   B.   Butcher. 

Ten  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 

Number  of  members,  17,017;  increase,  663. 

About  1,250  members  had  withdrawn. 

Collected  for  Superannuation  Fund . . .     £287.     3s.  lod. 
"     Contingent  "    ...     £228.  lis.     5d. 

Editor,  Rev.  Jonathan  Scott. 

Book  Steward,  Rev.  John  Ryerson. 

General  Secretary,  Missionary  Society,  Rev.  Anson 
Green. 

A  committee  was  appointed  for  the  adjustment  of  mis- 
sionary affairs  with  the  Missionary  Committee,  London. 
The  Imperial  Act,  regarding  Clergy  Reserves,  was  dis- 
approved. The  Annual  Address  made  mention  of  the 
Special  Conference  and  regretted  the  secession,  but 
gratefully  acknowledged  the  steadfastness  and  unwonted 
liberality  of  the  members. 

The  reply  to  the  Address  of  the  English  Conference 
stated  : 

"  The  secessions  from  our  ministry  during  the  past 
year  have  been  more  than  supplied  by  the  early  and 

27 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

voluntary  presentation  of  young  men.  The  liberality  of 
our  people  has  enabled  us  to  support  our  superannuated 
preachers  better  than  ever;  to  maintain  our  missions 
and  schools  and  assist  feeble  circuits." 

A  proposal  was  made  that  all  matters  at  issue  be  sub- 
mitted to  a  tribunal  equally  constituted  from  the  two 
Conferences.  The  Address  thus  answered  had  been 
printed  and  published^,  but  not  directly  sent  to  the  Can- 
ada Conference. 

'Nine  months  ago  there  was  some  diversity  of  senti- 
ment among  both  ministers  and  people.  Our  missionary 
treasury  was  empty,  but  the  missions  have  been  sus- 
tained and  increased.  The  Church  is  now  united.  One 
hundred  and  thirteen  ministers  have  gone  to  their  cir- 
cuits "  perfectly  joined  together  in  the  same  mind  and 
in  the  same  judgment."  May  the  word  of  the  Lord 
have  free  course  and  be  glorified.' — Guardian. 

A  Bill  for  the  incorporation  of  the  Upper  Canada 
Academy  as  Victoria  College,  was  passed,  by  the  House 
of  Assembly,  in  July,  1841. 

In  the  early  summer  camp-meetings  were  held  in  Goul- 
bourn,  Smith's  Falls,  Oxford,  Bear  Creek,  Matilda,  Carle- 
ton  Place,  etc. 

On  the  4th  of  August,  the  Rev.  John  Ryerson  started 
on  a  tour  and  writes :  '  At  the  Credit  I  witnessed  with 
delight  the  successful  efforts  of  David  Wright  among 
the  Indians ;  preached  twice  on  the  Grimsby  Circuit, 
attended  a  Sunday  School  Convention  in  Simcoe,  saw 
their  new  church  in  building,  held  a  Quarterly  IMeeting 
and  never  heard  better  speaking  in  a  love-feast ;  preached 
in  Guelph  and  visited  Gait,  a  village  of  about  a  hundred 
houses,  where  Brother  Sours  has  fitted  up  a  room  which 
will  hold  a  couple  of  hundred.' 

Mr,  Samuel  Heck,  of  Augusta,  died  on  the  i8th  of 
August,  1 84 1.  He  was  a  son  of  Paul  and  Barbara  Heck, 
converted  under  Hezekiah  Wooster  in  1796,  became  a 
faithful  class-leader  and  local  preacher,  and  closed  a  life 
of  great  usefulness  at  the  age  of  seventy  years. 

28 


RIVALRY  AND  ITS  RESULTS 

The  Guardian  of  September  22nd  was  in  mourning  for 
Lord  Sydenham,  the  Governor-General,  who  died  on 
September  19th,  the  result  of  a  fall  from  his  horse,  at 
the  early  age  of  forty-two  years,  deeply  deplored  as  a 
true  friend  of  the  country. 

An  address  by  the  new  Principal  of  Victoria  College 
was  published.     The  Provisional  btafif  consisted  of  : 

Rev.  Egerton  Ryerson,  Principal — Moral  Philosophy; 
Rev.  Jesse  Hurlburt,  A.M. — Hebrew  and  Natural 
Science ;  Rev.  D.  C.  Van  Norman,  A.M. — Greek  and 
Latin ;  Mr.  Wm.  Kingston — Mathematics  and  English ; 
Mr.    Crowley — Assistant   in   English. 

The  announcement  of  the  birth  of  the  Prince  of  Wales, 
November  9th,  caused  a  thrill  of  patriotic  gladness. 

News  of  revivals  comes  from  Peterborough,  Brock- 
ville,  Augusta,  Hallowell,  Brantford,  etc. 

The  Rev.  John  Neelands,  stationed  at  Barrie,  received 
instructions  in  the  autumn  to  undertake  the  St.  Vincent 
and  Owen  Sound  mission. 

*  I  engaged  a  friend  with  a  light  boat,  to  sail  or  row 
near  the  shore  for  safety,  taking  my  wife,  bed  and 
clothing,  while  I  with  my  pony  drove  through  mud  and 
creeks  fifty  miles  to  St.  Vincent.  The  Indians  were 
mostly  away  huntingf,  but  we  found  a  resting-place  in 
a  wigwam,  and  held  a  meeting  with  the  few  remaining. 
I  have  arranged  to  preach  to  some  settlers  on  the  Oak- 
ville  and  Owen  Sound  Road;  visited  several  settle- 
ments; have  formed  one  class.'  He  soon  had  three 
classes  and  three  Sunday  Schools. 

At  the  Newgate  Street  missionary  meeting,  Toronto, 
the  Hon.  Captain  McCauley  was  Chairman  ;  ministers 
of  several  denominations  were  on  the  platform  ;  pro- 
ceeds, ^175. 

At  the  Kingston  meeting  the  Hon.  Mr.  Sullivan  pre- 
sided ;  the  Hon.  Mr.  Harrison,  unavoidably  absent,  sent 
£2  los. ;  the  Hon.  Receiver-General  Dunn  was  ill,  but 
contributed  £5;  the  Chairman  subscribed  il2  los;  the 

29 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Hon.  Surveyor-General  Parke  iio,  and  moved  a  resolu- 
tion; Captain  Jackson  £20;  smaller  sums  made  up  ^177. 

The  President  of  Conference  reported  a  very  satisfac- 
tory missionary  tour  through  the  Niagara,  Gore,  and 
Home  districts. 

The  Rev.  A.  McNabb  writes :  '  The  contributions  in 
Hamilton  are  nearing  £200.  On  the  plate  at  Dundas 
were  three  ten-dollar  bills  rolled  together  as  three  fives 
had  been  at  a  previous  meeting.' 

On  February  24th,  1842,  the  Rev.  Anson  Green,  after 
spending  six  weeks  attending  thirty  missionary  meetings 
in  and  around  Prince  Edward,  reports  £200  paid,  and  a 
probable  income  of  £1,000. 

A  child's  box  at  Prescott  contained  over  £8.  General 
spiritual  prosperity  prevails  in  the  Eastern  Districts. 

At  a  Sunday  School  service  in  Toronto,  an  address 
was  given  by  Peter  McPhail,  a  dialogue  by  Louisa  Piper, 
Letitia  Stewart  and  Harriet  Taylor,  a  recitation  by  Mar- 
cia  Ryerson.  Jesse  Ketchum,  Esq.,  was  Chairman  ;  Dr. 
Beatty  and  Mr.  Hodgson,  Superintendents — all  names 
remembered  in  Toronto. 

The  Primitive  Methodist  Sunday  School  tea  meeting. 
Bay  Street,  was  attended  by  about  four  hundred.  The 
report  was  read  by  Mr.  Robert  Walker ;  recitations  by  the 
scholars  and  addresses  by  Revs.  Lyle  and  Jolly. 

The  British  Conference  regarded  the  dissolution  of 
the  Union  as  an  accomplished  fact.  "  Eighteen  mission- 
aries were  assigned  to  Upper  Canada ;  fourteen  principal 
stations  among  the  Chippewas  and  other  Indians." — an 
announcement  scarcely  intelligible  in  Canada,  as  twelve 
out  of  the  eighteen  missionaries  were  resident  in  circuit 
or  mission  towns  of  the  Canada  Conference. 

The  Rev.  John  G.  Manly  v/as  editor  of  the  Wesleyan, 
published  in  Toronto. 

The  number  of  British  Wesleyan  members,  1,627. 

30 


RIVALRY   AND   ITS   RESULTS 

The  "  Ladies'  French-Canadian  Missionary  Society," 
founded  in  Montreal,  July  12th,  1844,  held  its  first  anni- 
versary February  2nd,  1842,  and  reported  nearly  £150. 

The  Conference  of  1842  was  held  in  Hallowell,  open- 
ing on  the  8th  of  June.  President,  Rev.  Anson  Green; 
Secretary,  Rev.  Thomas  Bevitt. 

Into  fiiJl  connection — James  Spencer,  Samuel 
C.  Philp,  Charles  W.  M.  Gilbert.  Thomas  Demorest 
was  re-admitted  after  fourteen  years'  location.  Ten 
candidates  were  received  on  trial.  The  Chairmen 
were  stationed  on  circuits.  The  five  districts  were 
increased  to  seven  by  the  addition  of  Hamilton  and 
Cobourg-.  Editor,  Rev.  Jonathan  Scott;  Book  Steward, 
Rev,  Alexander  McNab.  A  committee  was  appointed 
to  consider  the  possibility  of  a  Manual  Labor  School  for 
the  Indians.  Certain  resolutions  of  the  English  Confer- 
ence regarding  the  dissolution  of  the  Union  were  replied 
to  with  resolutions  of  regret. 

Number  of  members,  19,478;  increase,  2,461. 
For  Superannuation  Fund,  £313  5s.  9d. 
For  Contingent  Fund,  £113  los. 

The  annual  address  to  the  members  opens  with  these 
words :  "  In  no  former  address  have  we  been  able  to 
speak  of  success  so  extensive  and  encouraging  as  that 
with  which  the  great  Head  of  the  Church  has  crowned 
our  labors  during  the  past  year." 

The  formal  opening  of  Victoria  College  took  place  on 
the  2ist  of  July,  1842.  The  degree  of  Doctor  of  Divinity 
had  been  conferred  on  the  Principal  by  the  Wesleyan 
University  of  Middletown,  Conn. 

A  "Ladies'  Seminary"  was  opened  in  Cobourg  by 
Professor  and  Mrs.  Van  Norman;  also  a  "Female 
Academy  "  in  the  same  town  by  Mrs.  J.  B.  Hurlburt. 

The  Book  Steward  had  notice  of  hymn  books  arriving 
at  Quebec,  and  announced :  "  They  will  be  here  in  two 
weeks." 

31 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  Editor  says :  "  We  received  a  remittance  of  five 
dollars,  charged  with  2s.  pd.  postage." 

Peculiar  teachings,  under  the  name  of  Millerism, 
were  finding  their  way  from  the  United  States  into  Can- 
ada, and  awakening  vigilant  opposition.  The  Rev.  J.  M. 
Peck,  writing  of  outrages  near  Rochester,  says :  "  Mr. 
Miller,  in  our  candid  opinion,  is  really  insane." 

By  camp  meetings  and  other  revival  services  at  St. 
Clair,  Albion,  Gosfield,  Whitby,  Peterborough,  Asphodel, 
Cavan,  Pakenham,  Perth,  and  other  circuits  many  hun- 
dreds have  been  gathered  in.  The  Niagara  F.  M.  S. 
sent  a  package  of  clothing,  valued  at  £io. 

Writing  from  Norway  House,  July  7th,  1842,  the 
Rev.  James  Evans  says: 

'  Mr.  Rundle  has  visited  Rocky  Mountain  House, 
Lesser  Slave  Lake,  and  other  places;  Mr.  Mason,  of 
Lac  La  Pluie,  finds  the  Indians  anxious  for  instruc- 
tion; Henry  Steinhauer,  at  Rat  Portage,  is  an  indefati- 
gable laborer  and  deserves  my  highest  commendation. 
At  Norway  House  Peter  Jacobs  has  been  unremitting 
in  his  exertions  during  my  winter  tour.  The  kindness 
of  the  Hudson  Bay  Co.  is  constant.' 

From  the  Saugeen  Mission  Rev.  Thomas  Williams 
reports  failure  in  their  crops  and  much  sickness. 

A  trenchant  letter  on  the  "  Licensing  of  Taverns  "  was 
written  by  the  Rev.  H.  Wilkinson,  of  Kingston.  His 
portrayal  of  the  liquor  business,  the  inconsistency  of 
licensing  evil,  and  the  complicity  of  the  voters  shows  that 
he  grasped  the  situation  as  heroically  as  temperance 
men  of  later  days.  It  was  proposed  to  reduce  the  140 
licenses  of  Toronto  to  100,  and  memorials  were  pre- 
sented to  that  effect.  The  magistrates  issued  a  pre- 
paratory notice  that  no  licenses  would  be  renewed, 
except  to  persons  of  "  respectable  character,"  for  houses 
of  "  superior  accommodation,"  where  there  was  a 
"  necessity "    for   such   houses.      Some    correspondence 

32 


RIVALRY  AND  ITS  RESULTS 

and  controversy  resulted.  Mr.  R.  D.  Wadsworth,  of 
Montreal,  visited  Toronto,  and  greatly  aided  temperance 
interests. 

The  Rev.  William  Ryerson,  in  the  West,  and  Rev. 
Anson  Green,  in  the    East,  attended    many  missionary 

meetings  during  the  winter,  with  good  success. 

Charles  Copway,  Indian  missionary  from  Lake  Superior, 
tells  of  his  visit  to  L'Orignal :  '  Brother  Metcalf  greatly 
helped  the  meeting ;  then  twenty-six  miles  up  the  Ottawa 
on  the  ice.  here  and  there  a  farm  house,  but  even  here  the 
"  saddle-bag  tribe  "  climbed  the  rocky  cliffs.  At  one  of  the 
meetings  a  Catholic  gave  2s.  6d.  Another  ride  of  twenty 
miles  to  By  town,  for  the  best  meeting  of  the  series. 
The  Chairman,  Sheriff  Malloch.  started  the  subscrip- 
tion with  £c^,  and  it  ran  up  to  i6o.  Leaving  the  :good 
friends  in  Bytown,  our  next  was  Osgoode.  Br.  Harper 
is  the  circuit  walker  here  in  the  summer,  for  there  is 
no  riding  then.' 

Grimsby,  Hamilton,  Plantagenet,  Dumfries,  Bramp- 
ton, Sidney,  and  other  circuits  were  blessed  with  very 
gracious  revivals. 

New  churches  were  built  at  Simcoe,  Alberton,  Paken- 
ham,  Gardiner's,  Blenheim,  Berlin,  etc. 

At  Victoria  College  examinations  high  standing  was 
attained  by  Oliver  Springer,  Samuel  S.  Nelles,  David 
Beach,  William  H.  Brouse,  Wesley  P.  Wright,  John  C. 
Aikens,  H.  Dennis,  and  J.  G.  Hodgins,  most  of  whom 
took  high  rank  in  later  years.  A  summer  session  was 
held — June  22nd  to  October  5th. 

The  British  Wesleyan  ministers  of  the  Western  Dis- 
trict met  in  Hamilton,  May  nth,  1842.  Some  new 
chapels  had  been  built  and  an  increase  of  805  members 
was  reported.    The  Rev.  Matthew  Richey  was  Chairman. 

On  the  29th  of  June  the  Rev.  Joseph  Stimson  sailed 
for  England,  where  he  remained  for  some  years. 

33 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  Annual  Meeting  of  the  Eastern  District,  was 
held  in  Odelltown,  commencing  May  19th,  1842.  Mal- 
colm McDonald  was  received  into  full  connection. 
John  Ferguson  Elliott,  on  trial,  had  died. 

Millerism  was  urgently  propagated  by  some  Ameri- 
cans, and  proved  detrimental  to  many  circuits ;  yet  an 
increase  of  357  members  was  reported. 


3^ 


CHAPTER  IV. 

1843-4. 

REVIVALS,  EAST  AND  WEST. 

Conference — Scotland — Governor-General — Asphodel — Education 
Bill  —  Saugeen  —  Adolphustown  —  Switzer's  —  Napanee — 
Osgoode — Wilkinson — Dignam — Quebec — Montreal — Confer- 
ence— Detlor — Credit — Lake  Huron — Green — Owen  Sound— 
St.  Vincent — Jones — Bytown. 

The  Conference  met  in  Hamilton  on  the  12th  of  June, 
1843.  President,  Rev.  John  Ryerson;  Secretary,  Rev.  A. 
McNab.  The  Rev.  Samuel  Luckey,  D.D.,  representa- 
tive of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  U.  S.,  was  in- 
troduced. 

Into  full  connection:  Reuben  E.  Tupper,  Thos.  Cosford, 
Wm.  Price,  Samuel  P.  La  Dow,  Eachlin  Taylor,  James 
Hutchinson,  George  Copway. 

Eleven  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 

Number  of  members,  23,311 ;  increase,  3,833. 

For  Superannuation  Fund,  £337  los.  8d. 

For  Contingent  Fund,  £185  i8s.  id. 

Sunday  Schools,  206;  teachers,  1,234;  scholars,  8,033. 

It  was  ordered  that  books  be  prepared  for  the  regis- 
tration of  baptisms,  the  Book  Steward  to  be  Registrar. 
Editor — Rev.  Jonathan  Scott ;  Book  Steward — Rev.  Alex- 
ander McNab ;  Delegates  to  Methodist  Episcopal  General 
Conference — Revs.  Anson  Green  and  Dr.  Ryerson ; 
Missionary  Agent — Rev.  WiUiam  Ryerson. 

An  address  to  the  Governor-General  was  ordered. 
Many  field  and  camp-meetings  were  held  during  the 
summer. 

The  Free  Church  movement  in  Scotland,  the  seces- 
sion of  over    four    hundred    ministers    and    nearly    a 

35 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

million  followers  awakened  sympathetic  interest  in  the 
churches  of  all  lands. 

The  Governor-General  and  the  President  of  the  Exe- 
cutive Council,  after  careful  inspection  of  Victoria  Col- 
lege, expressed  their  great  satisfaction. 

In  a  few  months  the  benefactions  of  His  Excellency 
towards  many  worthy  objects  were  said  to  have  amounted 
to  several  thousand  pounds. 

The  Rev.  George  Goodson,  of  Mississippi  Circuit, 
writes  of  a  successful  camp-meeting  and  the  reception  of 
fifty  new  members ;  Rev.  W.  Morton,  Clarendon,  of  over 
a  hundred.  Rev.  William  Young,  Asphodel  Mission, 
embracing  Dummer,  Otonabee,  Belmont,  Percy,  and 
Seymour,  with  eighteen  appointments,  reports  encourag- 
ing increase  in  zeal,  piety  and  numbers ;  also  a  new  par- 
sonage. 

Towards  the  end  of  December  the  President  of  Con- 
ference attended  a  series  of  missionary  meetings  in  the 
Western  Districts ;  the  Rev.  William  Ryerson  went  east- 
ward, attending  others. 

The  Toronto  Temperance  Society  petitioned  the  City 
Council  against  the  issuing  of  so  many  licenses  for  the 
sale  of  liquor,  and  especially  against  the  selling  of  liquor 
in  groceries,  wholesale  and  retail. 

During  the  session  of  1843  the  Legislature  passed  an 
elaborate  Education  Bill  for  the  establishment  of  public 
and  model  schools. 

The  liberality  of  Thorold  in  raising  £40  missionary 
money,  and  St.  Catharines  £60,  was  eclipsed  by  the 
Saugeen  Indians,  who  gave  £100  out  of  their  annuity. 

The  Rev.  William  Ryerson  reported  increasing  enthus- 
iasm for  missions  through  all  the  Districts  visited  in  his 
eastward  tour  through  Prince  Edward  County,  to 
Brockville,  Bytown,  etc.,  giving  thanks  to  God  for  pre- 
servation and  to  the  people  for  unfailing  kindness  and 
abounding  liberality. 

36 


REVIVALS,   EAST   AND   WEST 

On  the  Murray  Circuit  the  Rev.  Isaac  B.  Howard 
reports  the  reception  of  eighty  new  members ;  the  Rev. 
C.  R.  AlHson  over  sixty  for  Bath  and  Isle  of  Tanti : 

'  This  will  appear  only  a  mite  to  some  of  our  rich 
brethren ;  but  to  us  proceeding"  on  a  small  scale  it  is 
a  great  work.  In  the  old  chapel  in  Adolphustown, 
where  the  standard  of  the  Cross  was  first  planted  m 
these  parts,  we  have  had  a  gracious  season.  At^^our 
watch-night  service  a  cloud  of  mercy  broke  over  the 
people;  many  were  quickened,  and  thirty  or  forty 
washed  in  the  blood  of  Christ.' 

The  Rev.  Matthias  Holtby  tells  of  seasons  of  refresh- 
ing on  the  Simcoe  Circuit,  and  many  additions. 

At  Switzer's  Church,  Toronto  Circuit,  the  Revs.  John 
Law  and  Ch.  W.  M.  Gilbert  held  a  protracted  meeting  dur- 
ing February  and  March.  When  the  roads  were  too  deep 
in  mud  for  waggons,  the  people  came  in  crowds  through 
the  fields  and  woods,  and  scores  were  converted.  At  a 
love-feast  on  Sunday  morning  the  communion  table  was 
suddenly  surrounded  by  weeping  penitents,  and  the  saved 
of  the  Lord  were  many.  The  writer,  with  Joseph  Hugill, 
afterwards  a  minister,  and  very  many  others,  remember 
those  scenes  with  deepest  gratitude. 

It  was  after  such  times  of  awakening  that  the  agents  of 
Millerism  came  into  Upper  Canada,  spreading  their  delu- 
sions, to  the  injury  of  many.  Some  forcible  denunciations 
of  their  teaching  were  written  by  the  Rev.  Henry  Wilkin- 
son, one  of  which  thus  concludes :  '  Let  then  the  deluded 
in  and  about  Toronto  open  their  eyes  to  the  falsehood,  the 
audacity  and  glaring  inconsistencies  of  the  imported 
"  notion  " — Millerism — and  cease  to  render  it  the  least 

possible  countenance.' 

From  Napanee  the  Rev.  William  Haw  writes,  March 
13th :  '  Our  meetings  were  kept  up  with  unabated  inter- 
est for  four  weeks  ....  and  one  hundred  and  forty 
have  united  with  us.  At  a,  temperance  meeting  fifty- 
seven  took  the  pledge.' 

37 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

On  the  Rideau  Circuit  the  Rev.  William  Willoughby 
received  about  eighty  on  probation.  The  Rev.  Simon 
Huntingdon  writes  similarly  from  Kemptville,  and  the 
Rev.  J.  W.  McCallum  received  as  many  at  Cornwall. 

The  Rev.  Joseph  Reynolds  says :  '  The  dark  cloud 
which  hung  over  Osgoode  Circuit  has  burst  in  blessings. 
A"  field  meeting  and  four  protracted  meetings  have 
given  us  two  new  appointments,  two  more  classes  and 
over  seventy  new  members.' 

In  a  deserted  appointment  on  the  Belleville  Circuit 
the  Rev.  Wm.  McCollough,  after  ten  days  labor  rejoiced 
in  sixty  or  seventy  conversions.  In  a  new  settlement 
near  Owen  Sound,  in  a  series  of  meetings  held  in  a 
shanty,  without  glass  or  floor,  over  twenty  professed 
conversion.  At  the  missionary  meetings,  some  '  who 
had  not  bread  to  eat  cast  in  their  mite.' 

From  St.  Andrew's,  in  the  East,  the  Rev.  John 
Gemley  writes  of  '  a  new  church  in  progress  and  over 
sixty  additions  to  our  beloved  Zion.' 

The  Indians  at  the  Credit  held  shares  in  the  Harbor. 
John  Jones  was  Wharfinger,  and  Chief  Sawyer  took  a 
c'argo  of  lumber  from  the  Indians'  mill  to  Niagara. 

The  Rev.  H.  Wilkinson,  Toronto,  reports :  '  Re- 
moved, 31;  excluded,  7;  withdrawn,  3J  deluded 
by  Millerism,  3 ;  laid  aside  for  neglect  of  duty,  43 ;  re- 
ceived— by  letter  44,  on  probation,  90.  Notwithstanding 
the  heavy  arrearage  of  last  year,  left  to  be  paid  this 
year,  all  claims  are  met.' 

From  the  Warwick  Mission  the  Rev.  William  Dig- 
nam  writes  of  his  work,  November,  1843  •  "  We 
brought  the  building  materials  out  of  the  bush, 
manufactured  them  into  a  temple  for  the  worship  of 
God  and  held  a  dedicatory  service  the  same  day.  The 
people  had  agreed  to  assist  if  I  would  superintend  and 
preach  to  them  when  all  was  done. 


38 


REVIVALS,   EAST  AND   WEST 

The  morning  came,  I  was  not  idle; 

I  caught  my  steed  and  spanned  my  bridle; 

Then  four  white  feet  in  swift  succession 

Soon  brought  me  to  the  Sixth  Concession. 

The  sun  was  gilding  all  creation, 

The  songsters  warbling  adoration; 

No  note  to  me  was  half  so  cheering 

As  what  I  heard  in  "  Gardner's  Clearing  " — 

The  welcome  sound  of  axes  bounding; 

Chips  seen  flying,  woods  resounding, 

Drawing,  sawing,  shingle-making; 

All  were  working,  no  one  speaking; 

Corner  men  were  busy  fitting — 

Working  standing,  working  sitting'; 

Hands  beneath  in  full  enjoyment, 

Skids   and   hand-spikes   in   employment. 

The  walls  were  raised,  the  roof  erected 

In  quicker  time  than  we  expected. 

Each  man  to  shingle  took  his  station 

With  hammers  smack  in  operation ; 

Next  came  the  moments  for  devotion, 

When  every  hand  suspended  motion ; 

We  sang,  we  prayed  and  parted  praising — 

God  bless  the   friends  of  Gardner's   Raising! 

In  the  Township  of  Adelaide  two  more  were  erected 
and  dedicated  the  same  day  they  were  built;  and  on  the 
four  houses  built  for  the  worship  of  God  not  one  cent 
of  debt  is  left,  not  one  glass  of  rum  was  drunk,  nor 
one  disagreeable  word  spoken.  I  have  been  before 
congregations  in  many  towns  and  villages  in  this  Prov- 
ince, but  none  conveyed  such  heightened  feeling  as  to 
see  the  workmen  with  folded  sleeves  and  dripping  faces 
take  their  seats,  while  I  stood  upon  a  royal  oak  stump 
in  a  corner  of  the  temple  and  preached  Christ,  the  sin- 
ner's Friend.  I  have  obtained  two  acres  for  a  mission 
house  from  Capt.  S.  Moore." 

Of  other  results  Mr.  Dignam  writes  later: 
'  Here  where  there  was  not  a   Methodist  there   are 
now  forty ;  in  Adelaide  twelve  conversions  in  two  fami- 
lies.    In   Warwick   a   Sunday    School   was   begun   and 

39 


METHODISM  IN   CANADA 

many  awakened;  twelve  of  the  most  satisfactory  con- 
versions I  ever  witnes^^d  took  place;  soon  there  were 
twenty,  among  them  an  old  couple  nearly  eighty,  their 
sons,  daughters,  and  daughters-in-law;  and  twenty  in 
Adelaide.  Lest  I  should  be  exalted  above  measure  in 
seeing  about  ninety  souls  brought  to  know  Christ,  those 
vultures — the  Mormons — messengers  of  Satan,  have 
been  permitted  to  buffet  us.  I  am  in  the  suburbs  of  the 
field,  but  in  the  heart  of  the  work.' 

It  was  the  writer's  privilege  to  visit  these  townships 
in  1856,  on  a  missionary  tour,  and  witness  the  develop- 
ment from  these  early  beginnings. 

From  the  Waterloo  Circuit  Rev.  C.  Vandusen 
writes.  May  23rd,  1844  :  '  Two  hundred  and  fifty- 
three  precious  souls  have  been  hopefully  con- 
verted to  God.  A  young  man  returned  with 
two  brothers  from  Kingston  in  merry  glee.  At 
supper  he  started  to  say  grace,  making  a  mock  of 
the  ceremony,  but  in  the  very  act  was  arrested  and 
brought  to  his  knees,  writhing  under  the  pangs  of  a 
guilty  conscience.  His  cries  for  mercy  were  heard, 
his  chains  fell  off  and  he  was  made  free.  Since  then 
his  father  and  several  members  of  the  family  have 
turned  and  united  with  us.' 

The  British  Wesleyans  had  two  churches  in  Toronto — 
George  Street  Lot,  now  Queen  Street,  and  one  in 
Yorkville.  The  Rev.  M.  Richey  went  to  Kingston,  in 
exchange  with  Rev.  J.  P.  Hetherington.  The  Rev.  E. 
Evans  went  to  London;  the  Rev.  John  Douse  remained 
in  Belleville,  and  Mr.  Marsden  probably  went  to  Peter- 
borough. Rev.  J.  G.  Manly  left  for  the  West  Indies. 
Number  of  members  reported,  2,765. 

The  annual  meeting  for  the  Eastern  District  was  held 
in  Quebec,  beginning  May  i8th,  1844.  Rev.  William 
M.  Harvard,  chairman. 

Quebec  had  suffered  from  a  disastrous  fire,  the  larger 

40 


REVIVALS,   EAST   AND   WEST 

portion  of  the  city  being  laid  in  ashes.  The  loss  of 
two  Methodist  churches  was  sorely  felt,  and  private 
losses  by  members  caused  many  to  leave  the  city.  Amid 
these  reverses  the  Rev.  William  Squire  was  cheered  by 
the  ingathering  of  some  fifty  souls.  During  the  year 
the  great  St.  James'  St.  Church,  Montreal,  had  been 
built,  accommodating  a  congregation  of  two  thousand. 
It  speedily  became  the  great  rallying  centre  for  the 
Protestantism  of  Montreal.  The  Rev.  Matthew  Lang 
was  the  minister  in  charge.  In  the  same  year  the 
Lagauchetiere  Street  Church  was  built,  and  to  it  were 
removed  the  pulpit,  communion,  pews  and  other  por- 
tions of  the  old  St.  James'  Church.  Amid  a  dense 
Roman  Catholic  population,  this  church  had  a  hard 
struggle  for  existence,  as  the  writer  found  during  his 
pastorate  in  later  years. 

The  Conference  of  1844  was  held  in  Brockville,  com- 
mencing on  the  5th  of  June.  President,  Rev.  Richard 
Jones ;  Secretary,  Rev.  H.  Wilkinson. 

Into  full  connection — William  Dignam  Francis 
Coleman,  Daniel  C.  Van  Norman,  George  Bey- 
non,  Robert  Darlington,  William  Philp,  William 
McCullough,  Joseph  Reynolds,  Isaac  R.  Howard. 
Ten  candidates  were  received  on  trial.  Editor, 
George  F.  Playter;  Book  Steward,  Anson  Green; 
General  Agent,  David  Wright.  The  Rev.  Alexander  Mc- 
Nab  was  appointed  to  solicit  subscriptions  for  library 
and  apparatus  for  Victoria  College.  The  Conference 
returned  to  the  plan  of  travelling  Chairmen.  Number  of 
members,  23,749;  increase,  438.  Superannuation  Fund, 
£412  14s.  9d. ;  Contingent  Fund,  £248  7s.  2d.  Sunday 
schools,  223 ;  increase,  17.  Chairmen  were  to  be  respon- 
sible for  missionary  meetings  on  their  Districts. 

Samuel  Detlor,  of  Fredericksburgh,  was  one  of  the 
early  settlers  who  came  from  New  York  to  Canada.     He 

41 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

joined  a  class  under  Mr.  Losee  in  1791,  opened  his 
house  for  preaching,  and  to  the  end  of  his  life  proved  a 
friend  of  Methodism. 

Peter  Jones,  writing  of  a  refreshing  camp-meeting  at 
the  Credit,  says :  '  Twenty  years  ago  these  very  trees 
that  now  echo  with  the  voice  of  praise  and  prayer  re- 
sounded with  the  drunken  Indian's  yell  and  the  baccha- 
nalian song  of  the  white  man,  each  trying  to  outdo  the 
other  in  the  most  abominable  wickedness.' 

At  the  laying  of  the  corner-stone  of  the  new  Market, 
Toronto,  Sepember  4th,  1844,  the  Mayor,  Mr.  Sher- 
wood, referred  to  the  growth  of  the  town : 

'  It  was  known  in  early  days  as  Fort  Tarento.  The 
town  was  founded  in  1794  by  Governor  Simcoe  and 
called  York.  The  population  was  1,200  in  181 7,  1,677 
in  1826,  and  9,654  in  1834,  when  it  was  incorporated 
as  a  City,  and  named  Toronto  by  Sir  John  Colborne. 
The  revenue  was  then  under  £3,000.  By  1844  the  popu- 
lation had  increased  to  nearly  20,000  and  the  revenue  to 
over  £9,000;  so  we  may  expect  Toronto  to  become  one 
of  the  largest  cities  in  America.' 

September  5th  the  Rev.  Anson  Green  started  on  a 
missionary  tour  to  Lake  Huron. 

'  From  Holland  Landing  by  steamer  Beaver  we 
reached  Snake  Island  and  joined  the  Indians  in  their 
camp-meeting;  then  by  canoe  to  Barrie  for  Quarterly 
Meeting;  found  Br.  Dean  in  poor  health.  At  dawn_  on 
Monday  with  four  brethren — Chantler,  Smith,  Souls 
and  Cathey — stocked  with  provisions,  guns  and  troll- 
ing lines  we  set  off  on  a  nine-mile  tramp  to  Willow 
Creek,  down  whose  tortuous  course  we  paddled  with 
difficulty.  Soon,  however,  we  were  on  the  Nottawa- 
saga,  into  which  I  unfortunately  dropped  my  axe.  At 
two  o'clock  we  went  ashore,  boiled  potatoes,  roasted  corn, 
made  tea  and  ate  our  frugal  meal.  Swarms  of  mos- 
quitoes wanted  dinner  also.  After  thirty  miles  on  the 
swift-flowing  stream,  we  were  saluted  by  the  owner  of 
Cathey's  Mills,  Sunnidale.  A  good  night's  sleep,  an 
early  breakfast,  then  down  the   river   to   the  beautiful 

42 


REVIVALS,   EAST   AND   WEST 

waters  of  the  Georgian  Bay,  on  which  we  were  borne 
forty  miles  towards  St.  Vincent.  The  Indians,  just 
arrived  from  Penetanguishene  with  their  presents, 
were  encamped  on  the  beach.  With  our  sails  spread 
and  they  in  canoes,  looking  like  a  small  fleet,  we  made 
for  Nottawasaga  Island.  Towards  evening  we  passed 
a  towering  mountain,  high  and  picturesque  banks,  reach- 
ing St.  Vincent  at  dark,  tired  and  hungry.  Br.  Nee- 
lands,  tired  of  waiting  for  us,  had  left  for  home,  Mr, 
Seemen,  from  Brockville,  and  Mr.  Mallory,  from 
Young,  welcomed  us  to  their  homes.  Wednesday,  after 
a  shower,  we  started,  some  on  foot,  some  on  saddle,  for. 
the  Sound,  through  the  woods  of  St.  Vincent  and 
Sydenham  townships,  with  Br.  Neelands  as  guide ; 
country  exceedingly  inviting,  finest  of  timber,  streams 
sparkling  with  trout.  About  sunset  we  were  at  the 
Sound,  then  over  the  bay  to  the  Indian  village  and  the 
comfortable  home  of  Br.  Herkimer.  Mrs.  H.  is  the 
most  interesting  Indian  woman  I  ever  saw;  her  house 
neat,  beds  clean,  and  food  agreeable.  Thank  God  for 
such  changes !  Not  only  religion  but  the  duties  and 
privileges  of  domestic  and  social  life  are  being  taught. 
We  saw  their  fields  of  wheat,  corn  etc.,  their  barn,  and 
preparations  for  church  and  parsonage.  With  the 
Indians  we  had  a  good  meeting  and  met  the  Chiefs 
in  Council.  Owen  Sound  Village  is  about  half  a  mile 
above  the  Bay.  There  is  a  grist  mill,  a  reservation  of 
ten  square  miles  for  a  town,  and  a  fertile  country 
around.  The  people  are  settling  in  fast ;  their  crops  and 
cattle  better  than  I  expected  to  find.  The  Governrnent 
gives  fifty  acres  to  actual  settlers  and  fifty  more  at  eight 
shillings  an  acre.  All  the  way  to  Oakville  the  lots  are 
mostly  taken.  I  preached  in  the  village  and  attended 
a  Quarterly  Meeting  six  miles  out.  About  seventy 
people  assembled  and  fifty  shared  the  Lord's  Supper, 
Our  church  had  no  floor,  but  sitting  on  logs  the  people 
seemed  as  happy  and  grateful  as  those  in  cushioned 
pews.  On  Sunday,  at  St.  Vincent,  we  met  in  the 
woods  about  two  hundred  attentive  hearers.  In  the 
afternoon  Brs.  Smith  and  Chandler  spoke,  Br.  Nee- 
lands is  sowing  the  seed  and  others  will  reap.  Mon- 
day, whilo  the  morning  star  was  glowing  in  the  east 

43 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

and  Jupiter  in  the  west,  we  arose  for  our  homeward 
passage — the  lake  calm,  the  weather  hot  and  the  row- 
ing hard.     ...     On  Friday  we  reached  home.' 

The  Rev.  Richard  Jones  finds  the  preachers  on  his 
District  '  happy  in  their  work ;  Quarterly  Meetings  well 
attended,  and  the  stewards  devising  liberal  things ;  a  new 
church  being  built  in  Peterborough,  others  on  the  Hallo- 
well,  Colborne,  and  other  circuits.' 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson  left  for  a  trip  to  the  Old  World 
to  secure  additions  to  the  library  of  Victoria  College 
and  to  investigate  systems  of  education.  The  Rev. 
Alexander  McNab  supplied  his  place  in  the  college.  'Fhe 
Rev.  Peter  Jones  also  visited  England,  seeking  help  to 
lound  a  Manual  Labor  School  for  his  people. 

'  The  Bytown  District,  writes  the  Chairman,  is  about 
two  hundred  miles  in  length  by  fifty  in  breadth,  with 
13  circuits  and  missions,  and  17  preachers.  A  more 
kind  and  generous  people  I  never  found.  Circuits  do- 
ing well ;  Quarterly  Meetings  seasons  of  refreshing. 
About  forty  conversions  in  Richmond ;  a  camp-meeting 
and  about  seventy  conversions  on  the  Perth  Circuit; 
at  Clarendon  nearly  all  the  inhabitants  are  connected 
with  the  Methodist  Church;  in  Bytown  Br.  Baxter  is 
having  success ;  on  the  Pembroke  mission  the  roads  are 
exceedingly  bad ;  some  places  are  reached  by  the  water ; 
in  Westmeath  Mr.  Samuel  Adams  has  given  twelve 
acres  for  parsonage  purposes ;  a  parsonage  is  under 
way  in  Osgoode,  another  in  Buckingham ;  a  new  chapel 
is  being  built  in  St.  Andrews,  and  a  revival  is  in  prog- 
ress in  Lachute.' 


44 


1.  Bristol,  Rev.  Emerson 
4.   Bigpar,  -Mr.  J.  L. 
7.   Elliott,  .James,  Ii.l). 


2.  Coleman,  Kev.  Francis 

i).  Mrs.  J.  L.  Big^ar 

!s.  Gardiner.  Jas.,  D.C.L. 


:',.  Flanders,  Kev.  K.  A. 
(i.  Harper,  E.  B.,I).U. 
9.  Bredin,  Kev.  John 


CHAPTER  V. 

1844-45. 

EDUCATION  AND  MISSIONS. 

University  Bill  —  Strachan  —  McGill  College  —  Dean  —  New 
churches — London — Montreal  —  Conference  —  Victoria  Col- 
lege —  Pembroke  —  China — Missionary  meetings — London — 
Huron — Bevitt — Philp — Mono  —  Whitehead  —  Grievances — 
Harvard. 

The  discussions  in  the  House  of  Assembly  on  the 
University  Bill  and  many  facts  brought  out  are  of  in- 
terest to  Colleges  and  Churches  generally : 

In  1797  the  Legislative  Council  addressed  King 
George  HI.  for  lands  to  found  a  Grammar  School  in 
each  district  and  a  College  or  University  for  the  instruc- 
tion of  youth  in  the  dififerent  branches  of  liberal  knowl- 
edge. The  result  was  an  appropriation  of  500,000  acres 
as  school  lands.  It  was  intended  that  one-half  should  be 
sold,  but  land  was  cheap  and  little  was  sold.  In  1799 
Mr.  Strachan  was  asked  to  come  from  Scotland  to 
Canada  as  a  teacher.  In  1803  he  became  a  minister  of 
the  Church  of  England.  In  181 5  he  was  given  a  seat  in 
the  Legislative  Council,  and  had  much  influence  in  the 
disposal  of  school  lands.  Steps  were  taken  in  1819  to 
throw  off  the  claims  of  the  Schools  and  appropriate  the 
whole  500,000  acres  to  a  University.  In  1826  Arch- 
deacon Strachan  went  to  England  to  obtain  a  Charter 
for  the  University.  After  eighteen  months  he  returned 
with  the  Charter,  making  the  Institution  an  Episcopalian 
College.  No  one  could  be  a  member  ot  the  College 
Council  without  signing  the  Thirty-nine  Articles.  In 
March,  1828,  the  House  of  Assembly  voted  an  address 
to  the  King  against  the  Charter.  The  Colonial  Secretary 
suggested  that  the  Charter  be  held  in  abeyance  until  the 

.45 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

House  of  Assembly  should  declare  the  modifications 
desired.  In  1834-5  the  Assembly  passed  such  a  Bill  by 
^2  to  5,  but  the  Council  defeated  it.  Finally  both  Houses 
passed  a  Bill  to  abolish  the  Episcopal  tests.  This  Bill 
received  the  royal  assent  in  March,  1837.  Stillj^  the 
Episcopal  clergy,  assisted  by  some  of  the  laity,  sought 
exclusive  control  of  the  school  lands  and  also  of  the 
Clergy  Reserves — one-seventh  of  the  whole  province.  As  a 

trustee  in  the  management  of  the  school  property  Dr. 
Strachan  was  paid  £250  a  year  for  twelve  years,  until 
Sir  George  Arthur,  in  1839,  instituted  an  investigation, 
and  the  payment  was  stopped.  It  was  shown  that  Dr. 
Strachan,  then  Bishop  of  Toronto,  was  loaned  a  con- 
siderable sum  of  money  by  the  Council  of  the  University, 
of  which  he  was  a  member.  Original  endowment  of 
King's  College,  225,944  acres;  amount  sold  to  Decem- 
ber 31st,  1842,  110,610  acres;  amount  leased,  95,334 
acres ;  amount  unoccupied,'  20,000  acres ;  average  price, 
1828  to  1842,  22s.  9d.  per  acre.  Before  June,  1843, 
more  than  half  the  original  endowment  was  disposed  of, 
and  without  authority. 

*  Before  a  single  lecture  was  delivered  in  the  Uni- 
versity i  1 00,000  were  expended  and  400,000  of  the 
500,000  acres  disposed  of  without  Provincial  authority. 
Upper  Canada  College  was  opened  in  1830  and  60,000 
acres  from  the  residue  of  the  school  lands  and  also  a 
site  were  bestowed  on  it.  The  Bursar's  office  up  to 
1843,  £1.200  a  year,  and  £350  a  year  for  expense  of 
Avenue  and  grounds :  loan  to  the  Cathedral  Church- 
Wardens,  £4.500,  without  security,  and  on  the  same 
day  a  loan  from  the  city  banks  of  £4,000  to  meet  the 
pressing  necessities  of  the  University.' — Pamphlet  on 
University  of  King's  College. 

McGill  College,  Montreal. — In  the  year  1801  a  Bill 
was  passed  "  for  the  establishment  of  free  schools  and 
the  advancement  of  learning  in  the  province,"  the  Gov- 
ernor-General to  appoint  trustees,  who  should  constitute 
a  body  corporate — "  The  Royal  Institution  for  the 
Advancement  of  Learning." 

46 


EDUCATION   AND    MISSIONS 

In  1811  the  Hon.  James  M'Gill  bequeathed  in  trust 

to  the  "  Royal  Institution "  the  Burnside  estate — 46 
acres,  with  buildings — for  "  an  University  or  College,  to 
be  called  M'Gill  College  ";  also  £10,000  towards  building. 
Mr.  M'Gill  died  in  1814.  His  will  was  contested,  but 
the  bequest  was  maintained.  In  1821,  by  Royal  Charter 
incorporating  M'Gill  College,  the  Governor,  the  Bishop 
of  Quebec,  the  Chief  Justice  of  Upper  Canada,  and  the 
Principal  of  the  College  were  appointed  Governors  of 
the  Institution,  with  power  to  appoint  professors,  subject 
to  approval  by  the  Crown.  The  members  of  the  "  Royal 
Institution  "  were  appointed  Visitors  of  the  College. 

Possession  was  obtained  and  professors  appointed  in 
1823.  The  first  degree  was  conferred  in  1833.  The 
Principal  was  a  clergyman  of  the  Church  of  England, 
and  all  the  arrangements  were  for  a  Church  of  England 
Institution.  The  statutes  provided  that  there  should  be 
no  teaching  contrary  thereto ;  that  prayers  be  read  only 
by  officers  of  the  College  in  holy  orders ;  that  students 
attend  morning  service  in  the  "  Protestant  Episcopal 
Church  " ;  that  degrees  in  divinity  be  conferred  onlv 
upon  such  persons  as  are  "  in  full  orders  in  the  Church 
of  England  or  the  Protestant  Episcopal  Church  of  Scot- 
land." These  statutes  did  not  receive  the  Royal  assent. 
The  benevolent  designs  of  the  founder  were  not  real- 
ized. The  College  was  a  failure,  only  some  half-dozen 
students,  exclusive  of  medical  students,  attending. 

In  November,  1844,  the  "  Royal  Institution "  was 
requested  to  visit  the  College.  Dr.  Bethune,  the  Principal, 
denied  the  jurisdiction  of  that  body;  then  followed  con- 
tention and  an  appeal  to  the  House  of  Assembly.  Even- 
tually, upon  a  non-denominational  basis,  the  College 
entered  upon  a  career  of  unimpeded  prosperity. 

Thus  were  the  original  purposes  of  the  two  great 
provincial  Institutions  in  danger  of  being  thwarted  by 
ambitious  men,  intent  upon  a  monopoly  of  educational 
privileges ;  and,  similarly,  did  tardy  but  effective,  legis- 

47 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

lation  throw  wide  open  both  Halls  of  Learning  to  all  who 
might  wish  to  enter.  Other  Colleges,  dependent  on  pri- 
vate benevolence,  have  financial  difficulties  to  face ;  but, 
intrenched  in  the  confidence  of  their  constituents,  they 
bid  fair  to  accomplish  good  work  for  their  country. 

During  the  winter  missionary  and  revival  meetings 
were  general  throughout  the  Districts,  attended  with  the 
usual  liberal  responses  and  large  ingatherings.  Of  the 
Barrie  Mission,  extending  over  Vespra,  Flos,  Medonte, 
Innisfil,  Essa,  Sunnidale,  Nottawasaga  and  Tecumseh. 
25  appointments  and  250  miles  round,  the  Rev.  Horace 
Dean  reports  several  revivals  and  many  additions.  New 
churches  were  opened  in  Etobicoke,  Lambton,  Cooks- 
ville,  Peterborough,  etc.  The  report  of  the  Adelaide  St. 
Sunday  School,  Toronto,  showed  an  attendance  of  300 
scholars,  50  at  Blue  Bell,  35  at  Yorkville,  and  15  at  the 
Don.  The  Rev.  David  Rintoul.  Presbyterian  minister,  at- 
tended their  Anniversary,  and  said :  '  The  scene  was  so 
unique  that  I  feel  difficulty  in  saying  what  I  ought.  .  .  . 
It  was  not  merely  a  gay  spectacle ;  it  was  a  highly 
edifying  assembly.  The  songs  and  recitations  had  one 
simple  design — to  teach  the  importance  of  being  pre- 
pared for  the  future  life.'  The  first  Sunday  school  in 
Streetsville  was  held  in  Mr.  Rintoul's  church,  and  was 
attended  by  scholars  from  all  churches.  Their  annual 
feast  was  given  in  the  barn  connected  with  the  manse, 
decorated  with  evergreens  and  spread  with  tables — and 
the  writer  was  one  of  a  merry  group  of  boys  and  girls. 

From  London  the  Rev.  Charles  Lavell  writes  of  in- 
creasing congregations  and  about  fifty  conversions : 

'  A  stage  driver  on  the  London  Road  after  attending 
a  revival  meeting,  feeling  his  burden  intolerable,  "  com- 
manded his  chariot  to  stand  still."  and  fell  upon  his 
knees,  saying :  "  I  will  not  let  thee  go,  unless  thou 
bless  me."  The  burden  rolled  away  and  ''  he  went 
on  his  way  rejoicing."  Passing  the  place  afterwards, 
he  stopped  and  said :  "  This  is  too  memorable  a  spot 
to  pass  without  returning  thanks  to  God ;  it  was  here 
He  pardoned  my  sins.     Let  us  pray." 

48 


EDUCATION   AND    MISSIONS 

A  new  paper — the  Wesleyan  Methodist — was  started 
in  Toronto,  advocating  lay  delegation^  and  preparing 
the  way  for  the  Methodist  New  Connexion. 

'  Through  the  Eastern  Townships  there  has  been 
the  greatest  excitement  for  several  months — American 
emissaries  preaching  the  immediate  coming  of  Christ.' 
1  The  District  Meeting  for  Lower  Canada  was  held  in 
[Montreal,  commencing  May  23rd,  1845,  the  Rev.  Wil- 
jliam  M.  Harvard  chairman. 

The  Rev.  John  Rain  died  on  the  24th  of  August,  1844. 
British  Wesleyan  members,  U.  C,  2,818 ;  increase,  53. 
The  conference  of  the  Canada  Methodist  Church  was 
opened  in  St.  Catharines,  June  4th,  1845.  President, 
Rev.  H.  Wilkinson ;  Secretary,  Rev.  Thomas  Bevitt. 

Into  full  connection — Daniel  Wright,  Michael  Fawcett, 
Joseph   W.    McCallum,   John   Gemley,    James    Elliott, 
Jesse   Hurlburt,   James   Hughes,   Ephraim    B.    Harper, 
Matthias   Holtby,   Thomas   Jeffers,   Thomas    Williams, 
John  Williams,   David    B.     Madden,    Joseph    Shepley, 
Luther  O.  Rice,  Ozias  Barber.     Eight  candidates  were 
■eceived  on  trial. 
Number  of  members,  22,946;  decrease,  803. 
Superannuation  Fund,  £414  14s.  3d. ;  Contingent  Fund, 
^258. 
Editor,  Geo.  F.  Playter ;  Book  Steward,  Anson  Green. 
A  prospectus  for  a  Sunday  school  paper  was  issued. 
For  the  seventh  year  no  death  has  occurred  among  the 
Tiinisters.     Contributions  are  increasing.     Political  con- 
entions    and    agitation    regarding    church    polity    may 
iiave  affected  the  membership  unfavorably. 

Reports   from  the   Burlington   Ladies'   Academy  and 
Uher  Educational  Institutions  continue  favorable. 

The  names  of  Victoria  students  obtaining  highest 
narks  were:  O.  Springer,  W.  Brouse,  N.  F.  English, 
^V.  P.  Wright,  P.  W.  Spohn,  W.  Ormiston,  W.  T.  Aikens, 
:.  McD.  Cameron,  T.  Chesnut,  M.  F.  Douglas,  C.  Griffin, 
).  M.  Lee,  S.  P.  Morse,  G.  W.  Sanderson,  J.  E.  Sander- 
4  49 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

son,  J,  Gray,  G.  Proctor,  J.  B.  Grafton,  J.  Johnson,  J. 
Hurlburt,  A.  Wilson.  Oliver  Springer  received  the  degree 
of  B.A. — the  first  to  receive  that  degree  from  any  Cana- 
dian Institution. 

The  twentieth  annual  Missionary  Report,  1844-5,  shows 
an  income  of  -£2,773  9^-  lo^^d. 

*  At  our  last  Quarterly  Meeting  it  was  resolved  that 
we  build  a  chapel  in  Pembroke.  One  brother  said — 
"  I  subscribed  £5  to  build  a  chapel  when  I  was  not 
worth  sixpence.  I  paid  it  and  was  none  the  worse.  Now 
I  can  give  £50,  the  land  to  build  it  on  and  all  thejim- 
ber."  A  few  others  raised  the  amount  to  ;£io5.  "  The 
chapel  shall  not  stick  now,"  said  the  first  brother. 
Pembroke  is  part  of  the  Bonchere  Mission.'  H.  Shaler. 
The  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson  entered  upon  his  duties  as 
Superintendent  of  Education  January  ist,  1846. 

New  churches  were  opened  at  Bowmanville,  Hunter's 
Corners,  Drummondville,  etc. 

The  opening  of  a  mission  to  China  was  advocated  by 
the  Editor  and  approved  at  Inany  missionary  meetings. 

'  Half  the  year  gone  and  only  £6  received !'  writes  Rev. 
R.  Corson,  of  the  Sheffield  Mission,  set  ofif  from  the 
Napanee  Circuit,  with  parts  of  Camden,  Richmond  and 
Tiendenaga. 

Among  many  interesting  accounts  of  missionary 
meetings  are  some  from  the  pen  of  Rev.  H.  Wilkinson, 
of  those  held  at  the  Humber,  Weston,  Cooksville, 
Shell's,  Gardiner's,  Harrison's,  Switzer's,  etc.,  with  men- 
tion of  names  that  have  become  historic — Bunt,  Charl- 
ton, Ogden,  Gardiner,  Switzer,  Mason,  Harrison,  and 
other  pillars  of  the  early  churches.  One  of  the  men  in 
frequent  demand  as  chairman  was  John  Sanderson,  of 
Harrison's,  probably  because  he  was  known  to  have 
always  the  expected  pound  for  the  plate. 
In  January,  1846,  the  Sunday  School  Guardian  appeared. 
The  Rev.  G.  Kennedy  writes  from  London.  Jan.  29th, 
1846:  'We  have  about  30  regular  appointments  in  our 
sixty-mile  circuit — several  new  ones  in  the  Huron 
Tract.     The  calls  are  so  numerous  that  we  are  under 

50 


EDUCATION   AND    MISSIONS 

the  painful  necessity  of  refusing.  We  pray  the  Confer- 
ence to  send  more  laborers.  Scores  of  families,  brought 
up  under  the  Canada  Conference  ministry,  have  settled 
in  the  Huron  District  and  now  esteem  it  an  angel  visit' 
to  see  one  of  their  ministers.  Many  Scotch  and  Irish 
Presbyterians,  deprived  of  their  own  ministry,  attend 
our  preaching.' 

We  take  a  sample  from  the  Rev.  John  Carroll's  racy 
record,  attending  missionary  meetings : 

'  After  twenty  miles  driving  we — Hurlburt,  Sov- 
ereign, Lever,  Adams,  Haw,  and  Bevitt — met  at  the 
Green  Bush,  Jan.  15th.  The  Chairman  said  he  had 
heard  some  unfavorable  remarks  about  the  spending  of 
the  money,  and  hoped  the  ministers  would  explain.  The 
two  missionaries  present — Lever  and  Adams — were 
asked  to  give  an  account  of  their  missions.  This  they 
did  to  the  confusion  of  complainers.  Mr.  Haw  fol- 
lowed, telling  what  he  knew  of  missionary  givings  and 
expenditure.  Then  came  Messrs.  Bevitt  and  Carroll, 
after  which  the  people  showed  their  satisfaction  by  con- 
tributing over  £10.  At  the  next  meeting — Caintown — 
fio  were  raised — the  amount  fixed  as  sufficient  to 
change  the  name  to  Abletown.  Quarterly  Meeting  at 
Elizabethtown — intenselv  cold,  but  good  love-feast ;  six 
miles  for  evening  service,  then  home — twelve  miles — 
my  only  chance  for  a  fortnight.' 

From  Napanee :  *  Our  fine  new  chapel  was  decorated 
with  evergreens  to  show  that  the  missionary  cause  is 
flourishing.  The  people  at  Switzer's  think  it  "  more 
blessed  to  give  than  to  receive."  The  meeting  began  at 
II  a.m.  An  aged  father  said  to  the  Chairman:  "Go  as 
high  as  you  please  and  out  me  down  for  the  same."  Our 
chairmen  were  James  Watson,  Benj.  Clarke,  and  C.  H. 
Miller ;  proceeds  so  far  about  £40.' — A.  Hurlburt. 

Of  Cblborne,  Brighton,  and  Brundages,  Rev.  R.  Jones 
reports :  '  Good  collections ;  at  Norwood,  Quarterly 
Meeting ;  missionary  subscription  three  times  that  of  last 
year;  sixteen  miles  to  Sevmour — expectations  exceeded 
— then  to  Frankford  and  Sidney.  Much  reason  to  thank 
God  and  take  courage.' 

January  i6th,  1846,  Rev.  S.  C.  Philp  tells  of  a 
*  Good  meeting  at  Morpeth ;  then  twenty  miles  on  the 

51 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

bleak  banks  of  Lake  Erie;  weather  rough,  speakers 
few,  congregations  small,  but  the  Chairman  paid  los. 
extra  and  a  young  man  £i  for  Br.  Sickles'  speech — in 
all  £5 ;  Gosfield  a  little  higher  than  that,  Chatham,  £7 ; 
at  Wallaceburgh  the  Chairman — Mr.  Flintoff — started 
with  £2    los.  and  soon  had  £15;  Moorehouse,  £y    i6s.' 

Thus  through  many  weeks  did  those  pioneer  deputa- 
tions face  the  wintry  blasts,  enlisting  the  co-operation 
of  scattered  congregations  to  plant  the  standard  and 
extend  the  borders  of  our  Redeemer's  kingdom. 

*  On  the  Mono  Mission,  extending  over  eight  town- 
ships, a  new  class  of  26  was  formed  at  Nottawasaga,  and 
a  piece  of  land  was  offered  for  a  church  and  burying 
ground.  One  man  brought  his  violin  and  women 
stripped  off  their  flowers  for  the  flames.  At  Green 
Lake,  Melancthon,  Mr.  J.  Austin,  from  Toronto  Town- 
ship, made  for  himself  a  home,  applied  for  preaching, 
and  saw  a  class  of  twelve  gathered,  with  prospect  of  a 
church.  Several  other  classes  were  formed  and  from 
long  distances  they  mustered  for  Quarterly  Meeting, 
attended  by  Rev.  H.  \\'ilkinson.'  So  writes  Wm. 
Glass ;  and  Mr.  Wilkinson — '  About  seventy  miles  from 
Toronto,  where  a  regular  Quarterly  Meeting  was  never 
held  before,  we  met  on  Saturday  and  twice  on  Sunday 
— the  snow  about  two  feet  deep  around  the  log  school 
house — about  seventy  persons  gathered  for  love-feast. 
Many  spoke  who  had  lived  thirty  or  forty  years  in  sin.' 

The  venerable  Thomas  Whitehead,  the  oldest  minister 
in  the  Canada  Conference,  died  in  Burford,  January 
22nd,  1846,  at  the  age  of  83  years. 

At  Cox's  Chapel,  on  the  Rideau,  one  hundred 
dollars  were  offered  towards  a  China  mission. 

A  series  of  articles  were  written  by  the  Rev.  Ezra 
Adams,  appealing  to  the  several  branches  of  Methodism 
in  favor  of  union. 

New  churches  were  built  at  West  Flamboro',  Queens- 
ton,  Thorold,  Bowman's,  St.  John's,  Seneca,  etc. 

Towards  a  new  church  in  Hamilton  Mr.  Kirkindall 
gave  an  eligible  site,  McNab  Street,  valued  at  £200,  and 
£100  subscription;  Mr.  Jackson,  £250;  Mr.  Moore,  £100; 
Mr.  Gage,  £75,  and  there  were  other  liberal  offerings. 

52 


EDUCATION   AND    MISSIONS 

Of  Port  Hope  Circuit  Rev.  John  Gemley  writes : 
*  Three  hundred  and  twenty  members,  ^130  for  their 
minister  and  about  £150  subscribed  towards  a  new 
parsonage.  Among  missionary  offerings  were  saddle 
and  bridle,  £3    los.,  and  a  fanning  mill,  £5.' 

For  the  Bytown  District  the  Rev.  James  Musgrove  re- 
ports:  '  Fine  sleighing;  several  $5  bills  in  missionary  col- 
lections— four  at  Westmeath.  By  confessions,  conces- 
sions and  compromise,  a  union  of  Methodist  churches 
might  be  effected.' 

'  A  poor  woman,'  writes  Rev.  Geo.  Goodson,  dropped 
into  the  box  a  five-dollar  bill.  Thinking  it  a  mis- 
take, I  spoke  to  her.  '  Oh,  no,  it  was  no  mistake.  When 
I  think  of  what  the  Lord  has  done  for  me  I  cannot 
do  too  much  for  Him."  ' 

Oi  Buckingham  the  Rev.  John  Tuke  says:  'This 
mission  extends  sixty  miles  along  the  Ottawa,  and 
we  have  ten  regular  appointments.  The  bleakness 
of  the  region  is  equalled  by  its  moral  sterility.  It  is  a 
lumbering  country,  and  much  ungodliness ;  "^but  there 
appears  to  be  increasing  interest  in  the  preaching  of 
the  Word.    Missionary  meetings  went  off  well.' 

Total  missionary  income,  1844-5,  ^2,316  13s.  Qd. ;  total 
expended,  £1,773   12s.  4d. 

During  several  months  there  was  frequent  correspond- 
ence regarding  the  status  and  grievances  of  the  different 
branches  of  Methodism  in  Canada.  The  Rev.  William 
M.  Harvard  was  one  of  the  principal  writers  on  behalf 
of  the  English  Wesleyans.  Earnest  pleas  were  pre- 
sented for  pacification  and  unity,  in  order  to  spiritual 
advancement.  The  Editors  chair  was  a  storm-centre, 
and  no  enviable  position.  British  Wesleyan  members, 
2,981 ;  increase,  163.  The  Eastern  District  meeting  was 
begun  in  Alontreal,  May  15th,  1846,  Rev.  William  M. 
Harvard  in  the  chair.  George  H.  Davis  was  received 
on  trial.  Total  number  of  members,  4,115  ;  decrease,  43. 
The  influence  of  Adventism  was  considered  the  chief 
cause  of  the  decrease.  It  was  thought  that  a  union  of 
their  work  in  Eastern  and  Western  Canada  might  pro- 
mote a  larger  union  of  Methodism  in  Canada. 

53 


CHAPTER  VI. 

1846-8. 

THE  UNION  RESTORED. 

Conference  —  Truce  —  Tour  —  Carson  —  Revivals — Executive — 
Articles  of  Union — James  Evans — Meetings — Conference, 
1847 — Dr.  Alder — Reconciliation — Bright  prospects^Deaths 
— Education — Dr.  Dixon — Eastern  District — Conference,  1848 
— Belleville — Muncey — Deaths — Liberality,  Owen  Sound — 
Canada  East. 

The  Conference  of  1846  was  opened  in  Kingston,  on 
the  3rd  of  June.  President,  Rev.  Thomas  Bevitt ;  Secre- 
tary, Rev.  Hamilton  Biggar. 

Into  full  connection — Charles  Lavell,  Solomon  Snider, 
William  Herkimer,  David  Jennings,  Michael  Baxter,  Wil- 
liam Morton,  George  Kennedy,  George  Young,  George 
Carr,  Matthew  Connor,  William  Pollard. 

Ten  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 

Died — T.  Wliitehead.  Jan.  22nd,  1846,  in  his  84th  year. 

Editor — George  R.  Sanderson. 

Book  Steward — Anson  Green. 

Collected  for  Superannuation  Fund   £198  19  o 

Annual  subscriptions  of  preachers    145  15  o 

Interest  on  Centenary  money   98  10  i 

Collection  at  Conference   5I5  6 

£448  19  7 

Collected  for  Contingent  Fund    £299  ii  10 

Missionary  appropriation  to  fund   50  O  o 

Book  Room  appropriation  to  fund 50  o  o 

£399  II   10 
Number  of  members,  21,557;  decrease,  1,389. 

The  Revs.  John  Ryerson  and  Anson  Green  were  ap- 
pointed Delegates  to  the  English  Conference  and  also  to 

54 


THE   UNION   RESTORED 

the  Evangelical  Alliance.  The  Delegation  to  the  English 
Conference  was  authorized  to  submit  proposals  and 
negotiate  terms  for  a  reunion  of  the  Conferences.  A 
decrease  for  a  second  time  was  a  significant  lesson  on 
the  evils  of  disunion.  The  pastoral  address  drew  spe- 
cial attention  to  the  need  of  humiliation,  charity  and 
consecration.  The  newly  appointed  Editor  declared  a 
truce  between  contending  correspondents,  greatly  to  the 
relief  of  both  branches  of  the  Church.  Through  the 
summer  there  were  indications  of  increasing  effort  and 
hope  for  a  general  revival.  Camp-meetings  and  other 
means  were  attended  and  followed  by  showers  of  bless- 
ing. The  Chairman  of  the  Toronto  District  made  a 
tour  of  some  400  miles  ainong  the  northern  missions — 
Snake  Island,  Rama,  Barrie,  St.  Vincent,  etc. 

*  Tarrying  for  refreshment  with  comfortably  settled 
families  and  with  the  struggling  backwoodsman  in  his 
floorless  shanty;  journeying  upon  the  Queen's  highway 
and  upon  our  beautiful  Canadian  Lakes ;  clambering 
over  rocks,  struggling  through  swamps,  creeping  along 
cowpaths,  eating  from  a  snow-white  dining  table  or 
from  the  lid  of  an  immigrant's  chest,  sleeping  on  a 
feather  bed,  then  on  straw,  hemlock,  or  perhaps  on  a 
plank,  wrapped  in  a  travelling  cloak.  Such  is  the  diver- 
sity he  must  encounter  who  would  promote  the  interests 
of  our  Redeemer's  Kingdom.  Our  tour  was  marked 
with  blessings.  Hundreds  at  the  camp-meetings  and 
many  conversions ;  more  chapels  urgently  called  for ; 
lumber  and  labor  freely  offered,  but  help  needed.' 

Of  Adelaide,  Rev.  R.  Corson  writes :  '  We  have 
only  twenty  appointments ;  congregations  rather 
small.  Quite  a  number  converted  at  our  camp-meeting. 
We  are  badly  oft"  for  houses  to  live  in.  My  colleague 
has  a  log  house,  without  an  upper  floor.  For  an  ordin- 
ary log  house  I  have  to  pay  rent.' 

September  28th. — Rev.  L.  Taylor  reports  revivals  on 
the  Augusta,  Rideau,  Kemptville,  and  Gatineau  Cir- 
cuits, in  some  of  which  fifty  to  eighty  were  converted. 

Of  the  Richmond  Circuit  Rev.  B.  Nankeville  says: 

55 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

'I  think  nearly  one  hundred  persons  have  entered 
into  the  glorious  liberty  of  the  children  of  God  since 
Conference.' 

The  Rev.  William  Young  reports  the  Brock  camp- 
meeting  '  most  signally  owned  of  God.' 

From  Smith's  Falls,  Peterborough,  Napanee,  and 
other  circuits  come  similar  good  tidings.  Missionary 
income,  £2,789;  increase,  £473. 

The  Delegates  to  the  English  Conference  having  re- 
turned, the  Conference  Executive  v^^as  called  to  meet  in 
Cobourg,  November  19th,  to  receive  their  Report.  They 
had  been  favorably  received,  and  an  agreement  had  been 
reached  which  it  was  hoped  would  be  acceptable  to  both 
Conferences. 

Synopsis  of  "  Articles  of  Agreement  "  : 

I.  The  desirability  of  union. 

II.  Property  to  be  under  control  of  Canada  Confer- 
ence; certain  appointments  subject  to  sanction  of  Eng- 
lish Conference. 

III.  English  Conference  to  appoint  President. 

IV.  Minutes  of  Canada  Conference  subject  to  ratifi- 
cation by  English  Conference  in  some  particulars. 

V.  Canadian  Book  of  Discipline  in  force,  with  certain 
changes. 

VI.  English  Conference  to  appoint  Superintendent  of 
Missions. 

•     VII.  Grant  of  ii,ooo  a  year  to  Indian  missions  and 
i6oo  a  year  to  weak  circuits. 

The  "  Articles  of  Agreement "  were  heartily  ap- 
proved, and  an  Address  prepared  for  members  of  the 
Church.  The  Official  Boards  in  due  time  declared  their 
cordial  assent. 

Ladies  of  Toronto  presented  an  earnest  petition  to 
the  City  Council  for  a  reduction  of  liquor  licenses  and 
more  strict  regulation  of  licensed  houses. 

The  Rev.  James  Evans,  in  very  feeble  health  from 
labor  and  exposure  in  the  far  North- West,  left  for  Eng- 
land. He  died  soon  after  his  arrival,  November  23rd, 
1846,  aged  46  years. 

56 


I 


THE  UNION   RESTORED 

'  December  7th, — In  pouring  rain  I  galloped  off  to  the 
Credit  with  Rev.  G.  Poole  to  hold  the  first  missionary 
meeting  of  the  series  on  the  Toronto  Circuit.  Expect- 
ing to  remove  to  Owen  Sound,  the  Indians  did  but  little 
sowing  or  planting,  and  had  not  much  to  give.  The 
night  was  dark  and  stormy,  but  the  singing  was  delight- 
ful, and  the  few  who  were  out  subscribed  £8.  The  ven- 
erable James  Wilson  assisted  us  at  Cooksville.  Through 
Streetsville  we  drove  to  Switzer's,  Chapel  filled,  speakers 
in  their  happiest  mood,  avails  about  $50;  to  Gar- 
diner's— what  improvements !  splendid  residences,  ele- 
gant brick  church,  but  roads  almost  impassable;  congre- 
gation small,  and  only  $25 ;  about  the  same  at  Shell's.' 

From  East  and  West  come  accounts  of  similar  meet- 
ings and  of  considerable  additions  to  the   Church. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Alder  was  sent  out  to  assist  in  the  con- 
solidation of  the  work  in  Canada.  He  attended  the  Dis- 
trict meeting  in  Montreal.  A  decrease  of  192  was  re- 
ported. 

The  Conference  of  1847,  looked  forward  to  with  un- 
usual interest,  was  opened  in  the  Adelaide  Street 
Church,  Toronto,  on  the  2nd  of  June.  One  hundred 
and  twenty  preachers  attended.  President,  Rev.  William 
Ryerson;  Secretary,  Rev.  James  Musgrove.  The  Rev. 
Dr.  Alder,  Representative  of  the  English  Conference, 
was  introduced;  also  Revs.  Enoch  Wood,  Chairman  of 
the  New  Brunswick  District;  Matthew  Richey,  of. the 
Eastern  District,  and  William  M.  Harvard,  of  the  West- 
ern District.  They  were  all  asked  to  take  part  in  the 
deliberations.  The  members  of  the  Western  District 
meeting  accepted  an  invitation  to  attend.  After  special 
prayer  for  divine  guidance  the  report  of  the  Delegates  to 
the  English  Conference  was  received  and  Dr.  Alder  was 
heard.  The  concurrence  of  the  Quarterly  Meetings  on 
the  Articles  of  Union  was  practically  unanimous.  These 
Articles  were  under  consideration  from  Wednesday  until 
Saturday    evening.       The    evidences     of    reconciliation 

57 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

were  most  gratifying.  The  entire  plan  was  to  a  great 
extent  the  restoration  of  the  Basis  of  Union  of  1833, 
with  certain  modifications  as  given  at  the  meeting  of  the 
Executive.  By  a  vote  of  82  to  8  the  Articles  of  Union 
were  adopted.  By  this  vote  the  Union  was  con- 
sidered restored,  and  Dr.  Alder  was  unanimously  invited 
to  the  chair.  A  hymn  of  praise  was  sung  and  thanksgiv- 
ing offered  for  the  great  consummation. 

The  services  on  Sunday,  beginning  at  8  a.m.,  were  of 
unusual  interest,  ministers  and  people  realizing  how 
good  it  was  for  '  brethren  to  dwell  together  in  unity.' 

Received  into  full  connection — Abraham  W.  Sickles, 
John  Goodfellow,  William  Ames,  Noble  F.  EngHsh, 
Robert  Lochead,  Charles  Taggart,  James  Greener,  Isaac 
B.  Aylesworth,  John  Bredin,  William  Andrews,  John 
Gundy.    Three  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 

Members  in  the  Canada  Conference 21,740 

Members  connected  with  British  Conference  .  . .     3,082 

24,831 
Number  of  ministers  in  both  sections,  194. 
Ministers'  subscriptions    to    Superannuation 

Fund  ^149  o  o 

Collections  from  circuits   191  4  8 

Interest  on  Centenary  money   28  i  8 

Collection  at  Conference   11  2  6 

£379     8  10 

For  Contingent  Fund £455     6     7 

For  Chapel  Relief  Fund  86     8     i 

The  income  of  the  Missionary  Society  met  the  ex- 
penditure. The  consolidation  of  Wesleyan  Methodism 
throughout  British  North  America  seemed  probable.  A 
social  evening  was  spent  in  the  Richmond  Street 
Church.  An  address  to  the  English  Conference  was 
adopted.  The  Conference  closed  on  the  i6th  of  June, 
1847. 

.=^8 


THE  UNION   RESTORED 

The  union  of  Methodist  forces  opened  bright  pros- 
pects for  the  future.  The  stations  present  a  compact 
phalanx,  ready  for  an  effective  advance.  Fidelity  to 
Methodist  doctrine  and  polity  on  the  part  of  all  and  the 
power  of  assimilation  inherent  in  a  spiritually  vitalized 
church  organism  gave  assurance  of  vigorous  develop- 
ment. Necessary  readjustments  were  readily  accom- 
pHshed.  Previous  lessons  on  Union  had  been  re-read, 
with  a  clearer  insight  into  the  obligations  of  Christian 
brotherhood.  Actuated  by  a  chivalrous  consecration  to 
the  great  Captain  of  their  salvation  the  members  of  this 
militant  host  marched  forth  to  the  service  allotted  them, 
singing  as  they  went: 

"  Lord  of  the  living  harvest, 

That  whitens  o'er  the  plain. 
Where  angels  soon  shall  gather 

Their  sheaves  of  golden  grain ; 
Accept  these  hands  to  labor. 

These  hearts  to  trust  and  love. 
And  deign  with  them  to  hasten 

Thy  kingdom  from  above." 

The  Chairmen  in  the  active  supervision  of  their  ex- 
tensive Districts  devoted  themselves  with  renewed 
determination  to  the  assistance  of  their  brethren  on  the 
circuits  and  the  consolidation  of  the  societies.  From 
all  quarters  came  sounds  of  general  rejoicing  and  spir- 
itual progress.  The  London  District  strikes  the  key- 
note of  camp-meeting  revivals.  Kingston  District  fol- 
lows quickly,  then  Bytown,  Cobourg,  and  other  Dis- 
tricts join  in  the  chorus  of  praise  and  thanksgiving. 
But  some  who  have  long  borne  the  burden  and  heat  of 
the  day  are  laying  off  their  armor  and  dropping  from 
the  ranks.  In  the  obituary  lists  we  meet  such  names  as 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  L.  Andrews,  of  Vaughan,  aged  about  60 
years;  Mrs.  Sarah  Dumble,  of  Cobourg,  aged  51  years; 

59 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Mr.  Levi  Bates,  also  of  Cobourg,  whose  house  was  one 
of  the  earhest  places  of  worship,  a  leader  until  his  death, 
at  the  age  of  64;  Mrs.  John  Button,  of  Markham,  aged 
75  years,  who  aided  in  the  building  of  a  church  on  the 
farm  where  she  lived  and  died ;  Mrs.  Stephen  Young, 
of  Murray,  mother  of  Rev.  William  Young,  aged  64 
years;  John  Humphries,  of  Dummer,  another  leader, 
aged  50  years,  and  others  of  whom  these  are  samples,  . 

Victoria  College,  the  Burlington  Ladies'  Academy, 
and  the  Adelaide  Academy — removed  from  Cobourg  to 
Toronto — opened  with  good  attendance.  By  authority 
of  the  Conference  Executive,  petitions  were  in  circula- 
tion regarding  the  University  Bill,  presenting  the  claims 
of  Victoria  College,  the  Government  having  proposed  a 
division  of  the  endowment  among  the  Colleges. 

The  Chief  Superintendent  of  Education,  Dr.  Ryerson, 
made  extensive  tours  through  the  country,  delivering 
lectures,  and  with  teachers  and  trustees  considering  edu- 
cational questions.  The  Normal  School,  in  Toronto, 
was  opened  with  about  forty  students. 

Missionary  anniversaries  in  Montreal,  Toronto,  and 
other  centres  indicated  a  deepening  interest  and  increas- 
ing liberality.  From  the  Elizabethtown  Circuit  the 
Rev.  C.  Vandusen  writes  of  '  a  hundred  precious  souls 
gathered  into  the  fold  of  Christ.'  The  Rev.  B.  Nanke- 
ville  reports  five  new  chapels  on  the  Richmond  Circuit. 
A  new  church  in  Streetsville,  costing  £200,  was  opened 
February  6th,  1848.  Missionary  and  revival  meetings 
were  held  on  most  of  the  circuits  through  the  winter. 

Many  grieved  with  the  Rev.  Wellington  Jeffers  in 
the  early  loss  of  his  active  and  helpful  wife  who  died 
February  19th,  1848,  leaving  three  little  children. 

Revs.  Dr.  Wood  and  Lachlin  Taylor  attended  the 
missionary  anniversary  at  Niagara.     "  We  have  heard 

60 


THE   UNION   RESTORED 

Drs.  Clarke,  Newton,  and  Watson,  but  do  not  recollect 
a  speech  by  any  of  them  so  brilliant  as  Mr.  Taylor's." 

In  Kingston  the  missionary  meeting  was  held  in  the 
City  Hall,  the  Mayor  presiding.  Revs.  Dr.  Richey,  Wil- 
liam Squire,  and  several  ministers  of  the  city  gave 
addresses.  The  next  evening  a  tea-meeting  was  at- 
tended by  seven  or  eight  hufidred;  proceeds  i'jy,  sur- 
passing all  previous  efforts.  Many  other  places  were 
doing  similarly.  In  Belleville  over  a  hundred  additions 
to  the  Church  were  reported  by  Rev.  John  Gemley, 
Peterborough  was  aiming  to  surpass  the  £88  of  last 
year,  backed  by  Williamstown,  Shield's,  Gardiner's  and 
South  Monaghan.  Dr.  Wood  was  greatly  cheered  by 
liberal  responses  to  missionary  appeals  in  Hamilton, 
Dundas,  Grimsby,  and  St.  Catharines. 

Margaret  Amelia,  only  daughter  of  Simeon  Morrill, 
B^sq.,  London,  and  wife  of  Rev.  Charles  Lavell,  died  on 
the  14th  of  March,  1848.  Her  earnest  prayer  when  but 
four  years  old — "  Lord,  pardon  my  papa ;  pardon  poor 
papa !" — led  to  his  salvation.  Her  short  life  of  twenty- 
six  years  proved  her  devotion  to  Christ. 

The  Rev.  I.  B.  Howard  writes  of  over  a  hundred  con- 
versions in  Kingston. 

Mrs.  Dunham,  widow  of  Rev.  Darius  Dunham,  and  a 
member  of  the  first  class  formed  by  Losee,  died  near 
Napanee,  March  2nd,  1848,  in  her  seventy- fourth  year. 

Margaret  Nevill,  daughter  of  Peter  and  Ann  Maria 
Switzer,  was  born  in  Ireland,  May  12th,  1772.  The 
family  came  to  New  York,  where,  in  1793,  she  was 
married  to  Anthony  Nevill.  Coming  to  Canada,  they 
settled  in  Earnestown,  and  became  members  of  the 
Methodist  Church.  Mr.  Nevill  died  in  181 5.  Mrs. 
Nevill  was  distinguished  for  energy,  wisdom,  and  piety. 
Her  children  followed  her  example.  After  a  long  ill- 
ness she  died  March  26th,  1848,  in  her  76th  year, 

61 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  Rev.  James  Dixon,  D.D.,  attended  the  American 
General  Conference  as  Representative  from  the  Enghsh 
Conference ;  the  Revs.  Dr.  Richey,  John  Ryerson,  and 
Anson  Green  represented  the  Canada  Conference. 

The  Canada  East  District  Meeting-  w^as  held 
in  Quebec,  the  Rev.  Dr.  Richey  presiding,  and  the 
Rev.  John  Jenkins,  returned  missionary  from  India, 
being  elected  Secretary.  George  Douglas,  of  Montreal, 
was  received  on  trial.  Total  of  members,  3,782 ;  de- 
crease, 127. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Dixon,  appointed  President  of  the  Can- 
ada Conference,  reached  Toronto  on  the  4th  of  June, 
and  preached  twice.  The  Conference  was  opened  in 
Belleville  on  the  7th  of  June,  1848.  Dr.  Dixon  presided, 
and  the  Rev.  G.  R.  Sanderson  was  Secretary, 

Into  full  connection — Jno.  Hunt,  Abraham  Dayman, 
Chas.  Turver,  Jno.  Howes,  Erastus  Hurlburt,  Saml.  Fear. 

The  ordination  sermon  was  preached  by  the  President 
— "  so  plain  and  simple  that  none  could  fail  to  compre- 
hend the  grand  truths  presented."  The  Rev.  Enoch  Wood 
preached  at  3  o'clock,  and  the  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson  in  the 
evening,  after  which  the  Lord's  Supper  was  administered. 

Five  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 

Ephraim  Evans  was  transferred  to  Nova  Scotia ; 
Edmond  Botterell,  Henry  Lanton,  Lachlin  Taylor,  and 
William  Scott  to  the  Eastern  District.  George  R.  San- 
derson was  elected  Editor  and  Anson  Green  Book  Stew- 
ard.    Number  of  members,  23,842;  increase,  2.093. 

For  Superannuation  Fund    £447  20     o 

For  Contingent  "      255   ii     4 

For  Chapel  Relief  "     138     2     8 

Sunday  schools,  206;  teachers,  1.368;  scholars,  9,559. 
Missionary  and  other  public  meetings  were  held  in  the 
evenings.      Dr.  Dixon  was  requested  to  act  as  Repre- 

62 


THE   UNION   RESTORED 

sentative  to  the  English  Conference ;  it  was  desired 
that  the  Rev.  Enoch  Wood  be  continued  as  Superinten- 
dent of  Missions.  An  enlargement  of  the  Christian 
Guardian  was  authorized,  but  the  price  to  remain  at 
i2s.  6d. 

The  Conference  felt  under  deep  obligation  to  Dr.  Dixon. 

The  honorary  degree  of  M.A.  was  conferred  on  the 
Rev.  W.  H.  Harvard  by  Dickinson  College. 

The  Indian  Reservation  at  Munceytown  comprises 
20,000  acres,  occupied  by  about  1,200  Indians — Oneidas, 
Chippewas,  and  Munceys.  The  Rev.  Enoch  Wood  at- 
tended their  annual  camp-meeting  and  assisted  in 
arrangements  for  the  erection  of  Industrial  School 
buildings. 

Mr.  George  Lawrence  —  "  Father  Lawrence  "  — 
one  of  the  earliest  Methodists  of  Western  Canada,  died 
near  Niagara  on  the  5th  of  August.  1848.  in  his  92nd 
year.  He  was  in  active  service  with  Butler's  Rangers, 
and  for  most  of  fifty  years  a  worthy  class-leader. 

Dr.  Dixon  received  a  hearty  welcome  from  the  English 
Conference;  the  Rev.  M.  Richey,  D.D.,  was  appointed 
the  next  president  of  the  Canada  Conference,  and  the 
Rev.  Enoch  Wood  continued  as  Superintendent  of  Mis- 
sions. 

A  camp-meeting  for  the  Newmarket,  Yonge  Street, 
and  Humber  Circuits,  held  in  September,  was  highly 
appreciated. 

The  Woodstock  Church  was  refitted  with  pews,  pulpit, 
and  gallery,  to  suit  the  united  congregations. 

The  ladies  of  Richmond  Street  Church,  Toronto,  netted 
about  £200  from  a  Bazaar. 

The  Sunday  School  Anniversary  was  greatly  enjoyed. 

The  summer  session  of  the  Normal  School  was 
attended  by  104  male  and  22  female  students. 

Through  the   early   autumn   St.    Thomas,   Consecon, 

63 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Rednersville,  and  many  other  places  were  favored  with 
showers  of  blessing.  The  income  of  the  Missionary 
Society  for  the  past  year  was  nearly  ^5,000,  and  met  the 
expenditure.  Deputations  were  arranged  for  the  Dis- 
tricts generally,  and  the  key-note  of  the  missionary  cam- 
paign was  struck  in  Toronto  early  in  December,  with 
audiences  and  collections  well  in  advance. 

Mrs.  Elizabeth  Johnson,  of  Picton,  widow  of  Henry 
Johnson,  died  Dec.  4th,  1848,  aged  81  years.  She  came 
with  her  husband  to  Canada  in  1788,  and  they  were 
among  the  first  settlers  gathered  into  the  fold  by  Wm. 
Losee,  Mrs.  Johnson  being  one  of  seven  in  the  first 
class  he  formed.  She  rejoiced  in  the  conversion  of  her 
husband  and  all  their  children,  proved  a  true  mother  in 
Israel  and  died  in  the  faith. 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Robert  Morrow,  of  County  Cavan, 
Ireland,  came  to  Canada  in  1818,  and  settled  in  Cavan. 
There  Mrs.  Morrow  died,  August  19th,  1848,  at  the  age 
of  eighty,  and  Mr.  Morrow  on  the  19th  of  December  fol- 
lowing, at  the  age  of  eighty-seven — faithful  and  honored 
members  of  the  Methodist  Church. 

Mrs.  Lundy.  wife  of  James  Lundy,  of  Lundy's 
Lane,  died  on  December  i8th,  1848,  aged  64 
years.  She  came  from  Nova  Scotia  in  1796,  united  with 
the  Methodist  Church  in  1823,  and  proved  a  devoted 
m.ember  until  her  death. 

By  the  census  for  1848  the  population  of  Western 
Canada  is  715,000  and  Eastern  780,000. 

The  Revs.  Carroll,  Pollard,  Williams,  and  Halfmoon 
held  missionary  meetings  on  the  London  District. 
'  We  floundered  through  mud  and  swamps,  forded 
streams  and  rivers  unnumbered,  the  nights  dark,  but 
crowded  houses  and  meetings  of  the  right  stamp.  Nine 
more  exciting  days  I  never  spent,  owing  to  the  difficulty 
and  danger  of  our  hundred  and  forty  miles  on  horse- 
back in  the  latter  part  of  December.    Through  the  grand 

6i 


THE  UNION   RESTORED 

Huron  Tract  we  met  many  from  places  between  Ottawa 
and  Toronto.' 

The  November  Quarterly  Meeting  on  the  Waterloo 
Circuit  was  the  beginning  of  an  extensive  revival.  Many 
conversions  occurred  during  the  week.  A  young  woman 
having  given  her  joyful  experience,  saw  her  father  trem- 
bling. Throwing  her  arms  around  his  neck,  she  en- 
treated him  to  yield  to  Christ.  "  I  will,  my  child ;  I 
will !"  and  many  followed. 

The  Rev.  John  Bredin  reports  good  progress  at 
Guelph  and  Elora;  in  Woolwich  the  two  classes  in- 
creased to  six. 

One  hundred  and  forty  students  are  attending  Vic- 
toria College,  an  advance  of  25. 

The   Mississippi    missionary   meetings,    preceded    by 
j    much    prayer,   were    marked    by   increasing    liberality. 
Marmora,  Madoc,  and  Shannonville  report  full    meet- 
ings, lively  addresses,  and  good  collections. 

The  old  Hallowell  Circuit  received  a  hundred  on 
probation  and  Demorestville  half  as  many.  The 
watch  night  service  in  Toronto  West  was  the  beginning 
of  a  revival  in  which  about  two  hundred  were  gathered 
in. 

The  extensive  Owen  Sound  Mission  reports  steady 
progress  among  the  white  settlers  and  Indians,  reward- 
ing the  laborious  itinerants  in  their  long  and  tedious 
journeyings  through  Sydenham,  Derby,  Sullivan,  Hol- 
land, and  other  parts.  People  of  all  churches  welcome 
them,  and  the  Indians  in  their  wigwams  share  with 
them  their  scanty  fare. 

Dumfries  Circuit  has  received  about  70  new  members 
and  advances  in  missionary  offerings. 

From  Goderich  the  Rev.  James  Gray  writes  of  the 
most  glorious  displays  of  divine  power  he  ever  wit- 
nessed. 

5  65 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

New   churches   have  been  built  at   Fetch's,   Ayhner, 
Vienna,  Tyrone,  Port  Credit,  Bowmanville,  etc. 

CANADA  EAST  DISTRICT. 

Stations,  1849. 

Matthew  Lang,  Chairman. 

Quebec — Charles  Churchill,  Lachlin  Taylor. 

Three  Rivers — Malcolm  McDonald. 

Wesleyville — One  wanted. 

St.  John's  and  Chambly — Matthew  Lang,  John  Douglas.    • 

Huntingdon — James  Brock. 

Russeltown — Hugh  Montgomery. 

Odelltown  mid  Hemmingford — John  C.  Davidson,  G.  Dorey. 

Clarenceville — Edmund  S.  Ingalls. 

St.  Armand — William  Scott. 

Shefford — Rufus  A.  Flanders. 

Stanstead — John  Borland. 

Contpton — Thomas  Campbell. 

Shcrbrooke — Henry  Lanton. 

Melbourne  and  Danville — Benj.  Slight,  M.A. 

Leeds — One  wanted. 

George  Douglas  was  sent  to  England  to  study,  but  bv 
the  home  authorities  was  sent  to  Bermuda. 


66 


1.  Young,  George,  D.D.  2.  Ames,  Rev.  William  3.  Morrison,  Rev.  Samuel 

4.  Torrance,  Mr.  David  5.  Mrs.  David  Torrance  6.  Garner,  Rev.  .John 

7.  Caswell,  Rev.  James  8.  Stevenson,  Mr.  Edvfard  9.  Webster,  Thomas,  D.D. 


CHAPTER   VII. 
1849-51- 

ENCOURAGING  RECORDS. 

/ 
Conference,  Hamilton — Oxford  House — Cholera — Dr.  Richey — 
Healy  —  Whiting  —  Mrs.  Hurlburt — Proton— Bull — Sarnia — 
Williams — St.  Mary's — Bytown — Caughey — Lang — Lusher — 
Conference,  1850,  Brockville — Bangs — Beecham — Gough — 
Bishop  of  London  —  Ottawa  —  Peterborough  —  Conference, 
1851 — McDougall — Biggar — Caughey — Kingston. 

The  Conference  of  1849  "was  held  in  Hamilton,  com- 
mencing on  the  6th  of  June.  The  Rev.  Dr.  Richey, 
President;  Rev.  C.  Vandusen,  Secretary. 

Into  full  connection — David  Clappison,  Richard  Whit- 
ing, Francis  Chapman,  Aiex.  T.  Green,  Robt.  Robinson, 
Th.  W.  Constable,  James  Armstrong,  Jonathan  Loverin. 
Their  reception  was  moved  by  Rev.  Anson  Green  and 
seconded  by  Rev.  John  Jenkins,  of  Montreal.  The 
ordination  sermon  was  preached  by  the  President. 
Eight  young  men  were  received  on  trial.  Book  Steward, 
Anson  Green;  Editor,  G.  R.  Sanderson.  Dr.  Ryerson, 
Superintendent  of  Schools,  by  permission  of  Conference. 
John  Ryerson,  Representative  to  English  Conference. 

The  Pastoral  address  gratefully  acknowledges  nu- 
merical increase,  advance  in  connexional  funds,  success 
in  educational  lines,  and  urges  continued  faithfulness. 

Camp-meetings  followed  quickly,  beginning  with 
Vaughan,  June  23rd. 

The  Rev.  John  Ryerson  sailed  for  England  July  loth. 
Governor  Simpson  generously  offered  board  and  lodg- 
ing to  the  missionary  at  Oxford  House,  and  his  wife, 
until  the  company  could  erect  buildings ;  also  a  grant  of 
£$0  a  year. 

67 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

During  July  and  August  about  four  hundred  deaths 
from  cholera  occurred  in  Toronto. 

Mrs.  Susannah  Counter,  mother  of  John  Counter,  came 
with 'her  husband  to  Kingston  in  1822.  After  many  years 
of  faithful  service  and  much  affliction  she  died,  August 
9th,  1849,  aged  80  years. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Richey  suffered  severe  injuries  in  To- 
ronto, October  13th,  through  his  horse  running  away. 

Revivals  are  in  progress  in  Waterloo,  Wilton,  Tip- 
perary,  Goderich,  Woodstock,  Scugog,  etc. 

'  Last  night,'  writes  a  New  York  correspondent, 
'  I  met  Rev.  Joseph  Sawyer,  from  Canada.  In  the 
year  1800,  said  Dr.  Bangs,  I  was  converted  through 
the  instrumentality  of  Brother  Sawyer,  and  he  gave  me 
my  first  license  to  preach.' 

The  Rev.  John  Ryerson  reached  Toronto  October 
31st,  having  enjoyed  his  visit  to  the  English  Conference. 
The  missionary  report  shows  a  deficit  of  £50.  A  day  of 
Thanksgiving  for  the  removal  of  cholera  was  proclaimed 
by  the  Governor. 

The  Rev.  Ezra  Healy,  hastening  to  a  fire,  suddenly 
expired,  December  27th,  aged  59  years. 

'The  Amherstburg  Mission,'  writes  Rev.  R.  Whiting, 
January  7th,  1850,  '  is  a  laborious  one.  I  have  to  travel 
six  townships — from  Colchester  through  Maiden,  Ander- 
son, Sandwich,  Maidstone  to  Rochester,  ten  miles  travel 
and  an  appointment  for  every  day  in  the  year,  finding 
the  way  by  the  blaze  on  the  trees,  the  setting  sun  or 
evening  star,  till  you  see  in  the  distance  the  cabin  of 
some  noble-hearted  Scotchman,  surrounded  by  a  few 
settlers.  A  sea-shell  for  a  horn  sends  its  echoes  from 
cabin  to  cabin,  telling  of  the  coming  of  a  herald  of  the 
Cross.  We  have  interesting  congregations,  many  con- 
versions, work  for  two  men,  and  a  home  offered  for  the 
second.' 

The  Rev.  Henry  Reid  writes  from  St.  Vincent: 
'  After  our  quarterly  meeting  a  revival  continued  three 

68 


ENCOURAGING  RECORDS 

weeks;  clearest  evidences  of  justification;  over  a  hun- 
dred added  to  the  Church.' 

AHce,  wife  of  Rev.  Erastus  Hurlburt,  died  January 
3rd,  1850,  aged  26 — far  from  home,  bidding  the  friends 
of  her  youth  meet  her  in  heaven. 

After  long  waiting,  the  first  sermon  in  the  Township 
of  Proton,  on  the  Toronto  and  Sydenham  Road,  was 
preached  by  the  Rev.  Stephen  Brownell,  January  6th, 
1850,  to  a  hastily  gathered  company  of  forty,  and  a 
class  of  eleven  was  immediately  formed.  Nearly  a 
thousand  persons  settled  in  that  region  during  the  two 
years  past,  and  Mr.  George  Snider  invited  all  who 
would  to  meet  at  his  house  and  hear  a  sermon  read. 
Mr.  Brownell  could  not  return  for  two  months. 

At  a  missionary  meeting  in  the  Charlton  school-house 
Mr.  J.  P.  Bull  was  in  the  chair,  and  one  of  the  ad- 
dresses was  given  by  his  father,  Mr.  Bartley  Bull.  Con- 
tributions ii8,  the  best  on  the  Yonge  Street  circuit. 
A  year  later  in  that  log  school-house,  the  writer  made 
his  first  attempt  in  public  speaking  and  has  still  a 
vivid  remembrance  of  the  fervor  and  musical  ability  of 
that  congregation. 

The  Rev.  John  Carroll  tells  of  a  visit  to  Sarnia : 
'Left  London  January  iSth,  for  a  drive  of  sixty  miles 
in  a  buggy.  Called  on  an  old  friend  in  Adelaide, 
preached  in  a  new  shop,  took  cold,  but  by  restoratives 
administered  by  James  Flintofif,  Esq.,  and  his  attentive 
wife,  was  ready  for  three  services  on  Sunday,  one  on  the 
Indian  Mission,  where  Brother  Chase  interpreted.  Mis- 
sionary gifts  increasing,  but  not  fast  enough  to  prevent 
scanty  allowances  to  the  laborers.  "  I  can  con- 
tentedly live  on  bread  and  water,"  said  one  of 
them,  "  but  I  cannot  bear  to  see  my  little  ones  suffer." 
There  are  said  to  be  2,000  Indians  along  the  north  shores 
of  Huron  and  Superior,  anxious,  but  yet  without  teacher 
or  missionary.' 

'  I  joined  the  deputation,'  writes  Rev.  Th.  Williams, 
of  Blanchard,  '  at  Holmes'  school-house,  nine  miles  from 

69 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Goderich;  house  jammed  full,  liveliest  interest,  sub- 
scriptions in  advance;  at  Mitchell  no  members,  but 
meeting  and  collection  both  good;  at  St.  Mary's  a  large 
stone  school-house,  used  by  all  denominations,  well 
lighted ;  Brother  James  Coleman,  chairman ;  William 
Dignam,  our  missionary  from  Stratford,  delighted  his 
old  friends  by  witty  descriptions  of  the  v^ork.  The 
speeches  of  Brothers  A.  S.  Byrne  and  Philps  will  long  be 
remembered.  Sparling's  Church,  erected  under  Rev.  E. 
Evans,  the  first  and  only  house  in  the  township  set 
apart  for  the  worship  of  God,  was  decorated  with  ever- 
greens and  chandeliers.' 

New  churches  have  been  built  at  Edwardsburghi, 
Quebec,  Hagerman's,  Baltimore,  Rednerville,  Flamboro, 
Weston,  Unionville,  Palermo,  Saxon  Settlement,  etc. 
The  President  and  Superintendent  of  Missions,  after 
attending  missionary  meetings  in  the  north  and  west 
parts  of  the  Province,  went  eastward  in  February  to 
assist  in  others. 

The  Rev.  Edmund  Shepherd  journeyed — '  Seven  hun- 
dred miles,  through  deep  snow  and  over  dangerous  ice, 
attending  missionary  meetings  on  the  Bytown  District ; 
excellent  arrangements  made,  deputations  punctual,  and 
liberality  exceeding  anything  I  had  seen  in  this  region.' 

On  the  new  Millbrook  Circuit,  taking  the  country  part 
of  Peterborough  Circuit,  good  missionary  meetings 
were  held  at  Metcalfe,  Shield's,  Gardiner's,  Monaghan, 
and  Blackstock. 

The  Sabbath  Observance  Society,  recently  organized, 
petitions  against  the  opening  of  Post  Offices  on  the 
Lord's  Day. 

On  the  Dumfries  Circuit — Gait,  Berlin,  St.  George 
and  Guelph — hundreds  of  new  members  were  received 
into  the  Church. 

At  the  Convocation  of  Toronto  University,  held  in 
the  City  Hall,  May  23d,  1850,  the  Hon.  P.  B.  De 
Blaquire  was  installed  as  Chancellor.  The  Governor- 
General  desired  that  '  our  great  Educational  Institutions 

70 


ENCOURAGING  RECORDS 

should  be  founded  upon    and    inculcate    the    teachings 
of  the  Bible.' 

An  Academy  opened  by  Rev.  Daniel  McMullen,  in 
Picton,  for  pupils  of  both  sexes,  reported  a  good  year. 

The  Eastern  District  Meeting  convened  in  Quebec, 
May  i6th,  1850.  Owing  to  the  death  of  the  Chairman, 
the  Rev.  Dr.  Richey  presided.  A  revival  in  Montreal 
had  been  greatly  aided  by  the  Rev.  James  Caughey. 

The  Rev.  Robert  L.  Lusher  died  July  loth,  1849,  aged 
62  years ;  and  the  Rev.  Matthew  Lang,  Chairman,  Feb. 
21  st,  1850,  aged  52  years.  These  brethren  were  held  in 
high  honor  and  suitable  obituaries  were  read. 

The  westward  tide  of  emigration  takes  many  mem- 
bers from  eastern  circuits. 

The  Conference  of  1850  was  opened  in  Brockville 
on  the  5th  of  June  by  the  Rev.  Dr.  Richey;  the  Rev. 
Asahel  Hurlburt,  Secretary.  The  Rev.  Dr.  Bangs,  of 
New  York,  attended  as  delegate  from  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  and  in  his  address  gave  incidents 
of  his  early  life  in  Canada: 

'  I  remember  well  when  I  commenced  my  feeble  labors 
and  the  trials  of  those  days,  when  the  woodman's  axe 
and  the  preacher's  voice  sounded  together  through  the 
woods ;  when  the  Methodist  itinerant  followed  the  immi- 
grant into  his  lonely  retreat,  and,  carrying  provender, 
tied  his  horse  to  a  sapling  for  the  night,  eating,  preach- 
ing and  sleeping  in  the  settler's  log  cabin ;  when  there 
were  only  about  1,200  Methodists  in  the  country.  In 
fifty  years  you  have  become  25,000.  May  23rd  I  entered 
the  itinerancy  under  the  Presiding  Eldership  of  the  Rev. 
Joseph  Jewell,  colleague  of  the  Rev.  Joseph  Sawyer,  on 
the  Niagara  Circuit,  and  was  sent  to  Long  Point.  Dur- 
ing these  fifty  years  our  numbers  in  the  United  States 
have  grown  from  37,000  to  over  a  million.  If  we  would 
insure  the  continuance  of  God's  blessing,  such  as  He 
bestowed  upon  our  fathers,  we  must  maintain  their 
spirit  and  practice.  Methodism  was  begotten  and  fos- 
tered under  the  spirit  of  revival ;  if  we  would  perpetuate 
its  prosperity  we  must  maintain  that  spirit.' 

71 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Received  into  full  connection  —  Wm.  S.  Blackstock, 
James  C.  Slater,  Samuel  S.  Nelles,  M.A. ;  James  Gray, 
Charles  Sylvester,  Joseph  Hill^  Edwin  Clement,  George 
Case,  John  A.  Williams,  Wm.  H.  Poole,  Wm.  Chap- 
man, Thomas  Hanna,  David  C.  McDowell,  Wm.  M. 
Pattyson,  Thomas  Cleghorn. 

Ali  their  reception  addresses  were  given  by  Revs. 
E.  Wood,  E.  Ryerson,  N.  Bangs,  and  Wm.  Case. 

Dr.  Bangs  preached  the  ordination  sermon. 

Five  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 

Died — Ezra  Healy,  Dec.  27th,  1849,  aged  59  years; 
Franklin  Metcalfe,  June  loth,  1850,  aged  50  years. 

The  Book  Steward  and  Editor  were  re-appointed. 

Total  members — 25,042 ;  increase,  774. 

Superannuation   Fund    ^537     ^     ^ 

Contingent  Fund   1,206     7     2 

Dr.  Ryerson  was  requested  to  act  as  Delegate  to  the 
English  Conference,  if  in  England  at  the  time. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Beecham  was  elected  President  of  the 
English  Conference  and  the  Rev.  Dr.  Hanna  was  re- 
elected Secretary. 

The  Rev.  Enoch  Wood  was  appointed  President  of 
the  Canada  Conference  and  Rev.  John  Ryerson  Co- 
Delegate.  The  Rev.  Wm.  Squire  was  appointed  Chair- 
man of  the  Eastern  District. 

The  Rev.-- Samuel  Nelles,  M.A.,  was  appointed  Princi- 
pal of  Victoria  College,  and  the  advisability  of  removing 
the  college  to  Toronto  is  under  consideration. 

On  the  Brampton  Circuit,  in  August,  1850,  occurred 
the  death  of  Brother  Bowsfield,  an  aged  and  highly 
esteemed  local  preacher;  also  of  Wm.  Switzer,  an  ex- 
emplary member  of  the  Methodist  Church  until  his 
death,  Sept.  7th,  1850,  in  his  41st  year. 

John  B.  Gough,  a  noted  temperance  orator,  made  a 
tour  of  Canada,  with  good  results. 

72 


ENCOURAGING  RECORDS 

In  the  early  autumn  reports  of  revivals  came  from 
Augusta,  St.  Catharines,  and  other  circuits. 

Peter  Jacobs,  before  leaving  for  England,  thankfully 
declared  the  wonderful  changes  wrought  among  his 
people  during  the  last  few  years,  as  seen  at  Rice  Lake, 
the  Credit  and  many  other  places.  The  Missionary 
Report  tells  of  12  Indian  Missions,  18  missionaries,  21 
teachers  and  interpreters,  400  scholars,  2  Industrial 
Schools  and  1,000  members.  The  income — about  £4,000 
— meets  the  expenditure  and  cancels  the  debt  of  £700. 

The  Rev.  Th.  Demorest  writes  an  account  of  the 
first  Sunday  school  tea-meeting  at  Harrison's,  Bramp- 
ton Circuit.  This  school  grew  out  of  a  Bible  class  con- 
ducted by  J.  E.  Sanderson,  during  his  vacation  the  pre- 
ceding year: 

'  The  first  Superintendent,  John  Sanderson,  Esq.,  pre- 
sided. Mr.  Thomas  Holtby,  one  of  the  speakers,  gave 
promise  of  future  service,  and  the  talent  of  Mr.  Vicker- 
man  Holtby,  present  Superintendent,  was  duly  appreci- 
ated.   The  treasury  was  replenished  by  iio.' 

Another  very  interesting  Sunday  school  muster  was 
held  a  few  miles  west — Mrs.  Robt.  Gardiner  and  Mrs. 
John  Snell  providing  a  plentiful  repast  and  showing 
their  deep  interest  in  the  young. 

The  Sunday  school  teachers  of  the  Toronto  circuits 
had  a  profitable  gathering,  Jan.  14th,  185 1. 

The  Rev.  Eachlin  Taylor,  recently  returned  from 
Eastern  Canada,  was  in  great  demand  for  missionary 
and  other  meetings. 

'  At  Saugeen  on  New  Year's  Day,'  writes  William 
Herkimer,  *  the  annual  feast  was  given — the  chapel 
decorated  with  branches  and  fruits,  the  tables  loaded, 
twenty  sweet  native  voices  singing,  and  two  hundred 
parents  and  friends  rejoicing  together,  in  pleasing  con- 
trast to  earlier  days.' 

The  Bishop  of  London  speaking  of  the  Papal  Bull, 
parcelling  out  England  into  Romish  dioceses,  said : 

73 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

'  There  is  a  danger  which  alarms  me  more  than  any 
aggression  of  a  foreign  power.  Clergymen  of  our  own 
Church,  who  have  subscribed  to  the  thirty-nine  articles 
and  owned  the  Queen's  supremacy,  have  been  the  fore- 
most in  leading  their  flocks  to  the  very  verge  of  the 
precipice.  The  honor  paid  to  saints,  the  claim  of  infalli- 
bility, the  superstitious  use  of  the  cross,  auricular  con- 
fession and  absolution  are  pointed  to  as  worthy  of  adop- 
tion. The  danger  is  within  our  gates  from  unworthy 
sons  of  the  Church  of  England.  Beware  of  these  back- 
ward tendencies !  The  inclination  for  wearing  of  gowns 
by  minister  or  choir  is  an  indication  of  the  readiness 
with  which  the  essential  verities  of  spiritual  worship 
may  be  filched  away  by  withering  formalities.' 

Reports  from  the  upper  Ottawa  to  Brockville  indi- 
cate earnest  effort  in  spiritual  work  and  general  advance 
in  liberality. 

Shut  out  of  the  school-house,  the  little  Metho- 
dist congregation  at  Sparta  proposed  a  meeting 
for  building  a  church.  But — "Where  can  we  hold  it?" 
'■  In  my  ball-room,"  said  the  hotelkeeper,  and  it  was ; 
money  was  subscribed  to  pay  for  it  and  the  contract 
let  for  building. 

The  death  of  Mrs.  Williams,  wife  of  the  missionary, 
was  felt  as  a  sad  loss  by  the  Blanchard  Mission,  where 
much  work  was  in  progress. 

The  Peterborough  missionary  meeting  was  of  unusual 
interest.  '  There  must  have  been  nearly  i,ooo  present. 
Speakers — Nelles,  Taylor,  and  Breden,  in  their  very  best 
vein ;  the  music  superior  and  the  collection  above  any 
preceding.' 

Not  only  in  the  chief  centres,  but  in  smaller  towns 
and  country  circuits — like  St.  Andrew's  and  La  Chute, 
in  the  east— interest  in  church  work  and  liberal  offerings 
are  increasing.  In  Richmond  Street,  Toronto,  the  Mayor 
presided ;  in  Queen  Street,  Thomas  Vaux,  Esq. ;  in  York- 
ville,  Capt.  Hilliard;  the  speakers  Revs.  Jones,  Taylor, 
Musgrove,  Gemley,  Nelles,  etc.  '  In  some  respects  the 
meeting  at  Don  Mills  exceeded  the  others,  and  was  a 
fitting  climax  to  the  series.' 

74 


ENCOURAGING  RECORDS 

The  Home  Government  practically  commits  the  de- 
cision in  regard  to  the  Clergy  Reserves  to  the  repre- 
sentatives of  the  people. 

At  a  missionary  meeting  on  the  Norwood  Mission, 
Aaron  Choate,  Esq.,  presented  a  fanning  mill,  which 
was  sold  for  £5. 

The  Rev.  James  Caughey  spent  three  months  in 
Montreal,  with  very  blessed  results — several  hundred 
professing  conversion. 

The  Rev.  Wm.  Dignam  sends  a  characteristic  account 
of  missionary  meetings  on  the  Barrie  District: 

'  I  can  hardly  think  of  putting  into  short  space  our 
visit  to  fourteen  townships,  the  sayings  and  doings  of  a 
whole  month ;  the  church  and  parsonage  improvements 
in  Barrie,  gracious  revivals  all  around,  new  churches 
filled  with  worshippers,  scores  of  penitents,  zeal  and 
liberality,  kind  attentions  to  the  deputation  up  to  the  last 
parting  at  Lloydtown.' 

Towards  the  heavy  debt  on  the  Montreal  churches, 
two  trustees  subscribed  £1,000  each,  three  £500  each, 
another  £250,  with  more  to  follow. 

The  Belleville  missionary  contributions  reached  £88 
— nearly  double  of  last  year.  His  Excellency,  Lord 
Elgin,  contributed  £10  towards  Methodist  missions. 

Fruitful  revivals  are  reported  from  Whitby,  Claren- 
don, and  other  circuits. 

Miss  Sara,  daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  James  Craw- 
ford, Hamilton,  died  April  25th,  185 1.  As  a  token  of 
gratitude  to  her  Saviour  and  love  for  His  cause,  she 
left  the  proceeds  of  her  piano,  valued  at  $300,  to  vari- 
ous interests  of  the  Church. 

The  Rev.  James  Wilson  died  at  Cooksville,  May  28th, 
1851,  in  his  8ist  year — a  long  life  of  faithful  and  fruit- 
ful ministry. 

The  Canada  East  District  Meeting  comrruenced  on 
the  2ist  of  May,  1851 — Rev.  Wm.  Squire  in  the  chair. 

75 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  state  of  the  work  was  reviewed  with  much  anxiety, 
as  there  were  many  calls  for  laborers  which  it  seemed 
impossible  to  meet.  General  conditions  were  favorable, 
but  removals  were  frequent.  Prayerful  attention  was 
given  to  the  French  work. 

Number  of  members,  3,739;  decrease,  30. 

The  beautiful  church  in  Quebec  had  been  completed. 
Another  was  built  in  Granby. 

The  twenty-eighth  Annual  Conference  was  held  in  the 
Adelaide  St.  Church,  Toronto,  commencing  June  4th, 
185 1.  About  one  hundred  and  twenty  ministers  atten- 
ded. After  an  hour  spent  in  devotional  exercises,  the' 
Co-Delegate  opened  the  Conference  and  introduced 
the  President,  the  Rev.  Enoch  Wood,  who  addressed 
the  Conference. 

The  Rev.  James  Musgrove  was  elected  Secretary. 

Into  full  connection — John  Webster,  John  C.  Osborne, 
William  McGill,  Henry  Reid. 

Nineteen  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — ^George  Ferguson,  Jan.   ist,  iS^i,  aged  64  years. 
Alex.  S.  Byrne,  Feb.  nth,       "  "     18      " 

James  Wilson,  May  28th,         "  ''     81     " 

Members,  26,213  5  increase,  1,171. 

For  Contingent  Fund £1,322     o     9 

For  Superannuation  Fund  610  15     9 

For  Chapel  Relief  Fund 213  16     i 

The  English  Conference  Address  was  duly  answered. 
The  Conference  declared  its  approval  of  the  Imperial 
Government  in  restoring  to  the  Canadian  Legislature 
power  over  the  Clergy  Reserves.  A  constitution  for  a 
Tract  Society  was  adopted. 

Items  by  Mr.  Thomas  Vaux: 

'In  1824  we  had  36  preachers  and  7,150  members; 
now,  1851,  upwards  of  200  preachers  and  26,213  mem- 
bers. The  population  of  Upper  Canada  in  1824  was 
154.094;  last  year,  802,503.' 

Camp-meetirigs  for  Newmarket,    Barrie,    Cookstown, 

76 


ENCOURAGING  RECORDS 

Bradford  and  other  circuits  were  held  with  good  results. 
Revival  meetings  were  general  and  hundreds  were  con- 
verted. 

The  success  of  the  Burlington  Ladies'  Academy, 
Hamilton,  seemed  highly  satisfactory ;  but  the  strain  of 
responsibility,  financial  and  otherwise,  proved  too  severe 
for  the  Principal,  Rev.  D.  C.  Van  Norman,  and  he 
announced  his  retirement  to  accept  the  Principalship  of 
an  Institution  in  New  York.  General  regret  was  ex- 
pressed for  the  probable  closing  of  the  Academy. 

By  appointment  of  Conference,  Friday,  August  8th, 
was  observed  by  Methodist  people  as  a  day  of  fasting 
and  prayer. 

A  Bill  for  the  incorporation  of  the  Book  Room,  and  of 
the  Superannuation  Fund  and  Annuitant  Society  was 
passed  by  the  Legislature. 

The  Christian  Guardian  of  Aug.  20th,  185 1,  was  the 
first  number  printed  by  steam. 

One  of  several  means  employed  on  behalf  of  Vic- 
toria College  was  the  sale  of  Scholarships  at  £25  each, 
to  cover  the  tuition  fees  for  twenty-four  years. 

George  McDougall,  a  young  married  man,  of 
Scottish  parentage,  volunteered  for  the  Indian  work 
and  was  accepted  by  the  Conference.  Through  his 
trading  experience  in  early  life  he  had  become  familiar 
with  Indian  languages  and  customs  and  was  placed 
with  Rev.  Wm.  Case  at  Alderville  for  further  experi- 
ence. He  was  soon  in  demand  by  the  Superintendent  of 
Missions,  and  sent  to  Bruce  Mines,  arriving  July  23d. 
The  little  chapel  was  well  filled  on  Sunday.  Mr,  Mc- 
Dougall proceeded  to  Garden  River,  met  the  Indians 
in  consultation,  and  thence  to  Sault  Ste.  Marie.  He 
was  welcomed  by  the  Chief,  who  was  anxious  for  a 
school,  and  regretted  the  departure  of  former  mission- 
aries— Peter  Jones,  John  Sunday  and  Thomas  Hurl- 
burt.     Garden  River,  with  about  300  Indians  and  other 

77 


METHODI«SM   IN   CANADA 

bands  near  by,  was  considered  a  good  location  for  a 
mission.  At  Maple  Point  also  about  2,000  Indians  were 
accessible.  Mr.  McDougall  took  his  family  to  Garden 
River  and  lived  in  a  shanty  without  a  floor  until  he 
could  build.  *  Yesterday  I  preached  twice  to  good  con- 
gregations, have  visited  every  family  in  the  village,  and 
thank  you  for  my  appointment.' 

Oct.  ist,  Mr.  McDougall  wrote  again : 

*  Have  labored  harder  the  last  two  months  than  ever 
before.  Our  house  is  nearly  ready  for  moving  into. 
We  want  a  school-house,  towards  which  an  American 
gentleman  offers  £15.' 

At  the  St.  Clair  Mission,  after  a  camp-meeting,  about 
25  were  baptized  and  a  class  formed.  The  Indians 
built  and  furnished  a  school-house. 

Samuel  McDowell,  of  Clarendon,  was  born  in  Ireland, 
County  Fermanagh,  in  1786,  and  came  to  Canada  in 
1835.  In  his  home  in  the  woods  Methodist  ministers 
met  a  hearty  welcome.  His  life  was  marked  by  faith- 
ful devotion  to  God  and  His  cause.  A  sudden  call, 
Aug.  7th,  1851,  found  him  ready;  his  work  done  and 
two  of  his  sons — David  C.  and  Henry — in  the  ministry. 

Charles  Biggar,  Esq.,  of  the  Carrying-Place,  was  born 
in  Bath,  N.  Y.,  Jan.  7th,  1797,  and  came  with  his  par- 
ents to  Oueenston  in  1803.  At  the  age  of  nineteen  he 
began  business  at  the  Carrying-Place.  In  1821  he  was 
married  and  shortly  after  became  a  member  of  the 
Methodist  Church.  For  thirty  years  his  home  was 
open  to  Methodist  preachers,  who  found  him  a  willing 
co-worker  until  his  death,  Oct.  26th,  185 1.  A  son, 
James  L.  Biggar,  worthily  maintained  the  honor  of  tlie 
name  in  religious  and  public  life. 

A  new  stone  church  was  opened  in  Hamilton  Nov. 
25th,  185 1.  An  organ  costing  £200  was  presented  by 
Peter  Hess,  Esq.,  and  a  communion  service  by  James 
Crawford — expecting  soon  to  drink  of  the  new  wine 
in  the  kingdom  above.         ^g 


ENCOURAGING  RECORDS 

After  protracted  meeting's  in  Albion,  Mono  and  Miil- 
mur,  over  a  hundred  new  members  were  received,  one, 
till  then  a  Roman  Catholic,  said :  ''  Sure,  it's  God's  truth 
and  a  heart  of  stone  could  not  withstand  it." 

The  Rev.  Francis  Coleman  attended  fifteen  missionary 
meetings,  with  Brs.  Clappison.  Alcorn,  Peter  Jacobs,  and 
others  at  La  Chute,  St.  Andrews  and  other  places  ;  crowded 
houses  and  proceeds  well  in  advance.  In  Bytown  Samuel 
Alcorn  and  Peter  Jacobs  preached.  On  Monday  even- 
ing the  church  overflowed;  and  the  next  evening  the 
ladies  gave  a  missionary  tea.  "  How  wonderful  that  an 
Indian  could  be  so  changed !"  and  "  speak  such  good 
English  " — so  they  spoke  of  Peter  Jacobs. 

Mr.  Richard  Woodsworth  gives  an  account  of  the 
Rev.  James  Caughey's  wonderfully  successful  labors  in 
Richmond  St.  Church,  Toronto,  from  Nov.  23d.  to  Jan. 
7th,  when  he  crossed  over  to  Adelaide  St.  Church. 
The  services  had  been  held  afternoon  and  evening,  and 
about  700  professed  to  receive  good.  Never  before  had 
Toronto  been  so  mightily  moved.  The  Eebruarv  love- 
feast  was  a  blessed  and  memorable  occasion — the 
church  filled  with  witnesses  for  Christ. 

The  Superintendent  of  the  Sunday  school  at  that 
time  was  Mr.  Alexander  Hamilton,  and  from  among'  its 
teachers  and  scholars  many  became  ministers,  several 
of  whom  were  converted  in  that  revival — Henrv  W.  P. 
Allen.  George  M.  Brown,  Alex.  Burns,  Solomon  Cleaver, 
John  S.  Clarke,  Richard  Clarke,  John  B.  Clarkson,  Wm. 
Colville,  Geo.  H.  Cornish,  Hugh  T.  Crossley,  Alex.  Dren- 
nan,  James  E.  Dyer,  Wm.  W.  Edwards,  John  Hough, 
Jabez  B.  Keough,  Thomas  S.  Keough,  Andrew  Milli- 
ken,  Wm.  McDonagh,  Marmaduke  L.  Pearson,  Samuel 
Sing,  John  Tamblyn,  James  Woodsworth,  and  Richard  W. 
Woodsworth. 

For  six  months  Mr.  Caughey  continued  his  wonder- 

79 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

fully  successful  labors  in  Toronto.  The  May  Quar- 
terly Meetings  of  the  two  city  circuits  gratefully  ac- 
knowledged his  laborious  and  effective  services.  There 
had  been  over  twelve  hundred  inquirers  and  many  were 
added  to  the  churches.  A  farewell  breakfast  was  also 
tendered  Mr.  Caughey.  Jn  replying  to  kind  words  of 
his  brethren  Mr.  Caughey  said :  '  I  really  feel  hum- 
bled in  the  dust  before  God.  To  Him  be  all  the  glory. 
God  Almighty  bless  you  all.' 

The  Rev.  Richard  Whiting  tells  of  missionary  meet- 
ings at  Sandwich,  Windsor,  Dutch  Settlement,  Chatham, 
etc.,  where  '  gold,  silver  and  bills  came  tumbling  to- 
gether in   sweetest  harmony.' 

On  Malahide  Circuit — Richmond,  Moss,  Gravesend, 
Vienna  and  Aylmer — '  speeches  good,  Wm.  Ryerson's 
superlatively  so,  congregations  large  and  contributions 
in  advance.' 

Of  the  Peel  Mission  Rev.  Matthew  Swann  reports 
many  new  settlers,  some  conversions  and  clearing  the 
debt  of  Fisher's  Church — the  first  on  the  mission. 

The  Rev. 'James  Clark  had  a  thirty-five  mile  drive 
through  the  forests;  good  meetings  in  Melancthon,  in 
Nottawasaga,  and  at  Cathey's,  in  Sunnidale,  where  the 
house  was  decorated,  illumined  and  filled — their  first 
oflferings  for  missions  amounting  to  seven  or  eight 
pounds,  the  people  poor  and  only  fifteen  members.' 

Millbrook  rejoices  in  the  addition  of  40  new  members, 
parsonage  near  completion  and  increasing  liberality. 

On  the  Farmersville  Circuit — 'good  speeches,  in- 
creased contributions,  a  divine  influence  promoting 
spirituality  and  helping  the  mission.'  The  Rev.  James 
Gray  reports  '  harmony  and  prosperity  at  Perth,  Lanark, 
Playfair,  Steadman's,  Wright's  and  Adams.' 

Mrs.  Lucy  Heck,  daughter  of  Joshua  Adams,  was 
born  in  Perth,  Dec.  3rd,  1817.  In  1844  she  became  the 
wife   of   George   Heck,   Augusta.     From   her   fifteenth 

80 


ENCOURAGING  RECORDS 

year  until  called  home,  Jan.  i6th,  1852,  she  witnessed  a 
good  confession.' 

The  debt  on  the  Moulinette  chapel,  Cornwall,  was 
paid;  about  thirty  conversions  at  Charlesville,  twenty 
at  Cam's ;  missionary  money  one-third  in  advance. 

'  On  the  29th  of  January,  1852,  the  Methodist  Church 
in  Leeds,  Megantic,  was  tastefully  festooned  and  bril- 
liantly illuminated  for  an  intellectual  and  pleasurable 
commingling  of  all  classes  and  churches.  After  tea 
the  Rev.  Gififord  Dorey  took  the  chair.  Several  ad- 
dresses were  given,  a  most  agreeable  evening  spent, 
and  a  collection  taken  for  missions.' — Auld  Kirk. 

"  The  new  and  beautiful  Wesleyan  Methodist  Church, 
on  Sydenham  Street,  Kingston,  was  opened  on  Sunday 
last,  when  very  appropriate  discourses  were  delivered  by 
the  Revs.  Enoch  Wood  and  Egerton  Ryerson,  D.D. ; 
the  church  was  filled  to  its  utmost  capacity." — British 
Whig,  March  30th,  1852. 

Some  of  the  trustees  and  largest  subscribers  were: 
John  Counter,  Wm.  Denn,  Thomas  McCutcheon,  Wm. 
Anglin,  Arthur  and  Edwin  Chown.  The  Rev.  Samuel 
D.  Rice  was  the  minister  in  charge.  Total  expenditure, 
about  $28,000. 

Other  new  churches  have  been  opened  in  West  Gwil- 
limbury,  Vandusen's  North  Port,  Prince  Albert,  etc. 

The  two  Hamilton  Sunday  schools  report  56  teachers, 
371  scholars  and  an  income  of  about  £40.  A  third 
school  has  just  been  organized  in  the  new  church,  with 
Mr.  R.  D.  Wadsworth,  Superintendent. 

*  The  Kincardine  Mission  is  new,  inhabitants  very 
poor,  nine  appointments,  25  new  members,  three  churches 
commenced,  lumber  very  scarce,  the  people  willing  and 
the  outlook  encouraging.' — Thomas  Crews. 

George  McDougal,  Garden  Island,  writes: 

*  We  finished  our  school-house,  though  winter  was  on 
and  15  below  zero;  had  a  good  watch-night,  eleven  pro- 
fessing conversion,  and  our  first  sacramental  service. 
The  ravages  of  the  drink  curse  are  fearful.     One  Chief 

6  81 


•      METHODISM   IN   CANADA- 

recounted  twenty  of  his  own  relatives  who  had  been 
drowned,  frozen,  or  burned  while  intoxicated.  We  visited 
the  Bruce  Mines  and  St.  Joseph's  Island,  on  snowshoes, 
found  several  bands  of  Indians  and  much  sickness.". 

Mr.  Thomas  Perdue  came  from  Ireland  to  Canada  in 
1831  and  settled  in  Caesar's  neighborhood,  Caledon, 
where  he  was  a  faithful  member  of  the  Methodist 
Church  and  a  leader  until  his  death  on  the  2nd  of  May, 
1852. 

The^  first  Methodist  church  on  the  Gosfield  circuit 
was  built  on  Mersea  Street  and  opened  on  the  i8th  of 
May,  1852,  by  the  Rev.  Wm.  Price. 

'  The  Wellesley  Mission,  formed  of  the  northern  town- 
ships of  the  former  Stratford  mission,  has  twenty 
appointments ;  roads  very  bad,  in  many  parts  neither 
roads  nor  bridges,  so  I  have  had  to  go  on  foot  two- 
thirds  of  the  year ;  yet  have  cause  to  thank  God  for 
increase  of  members,  though  finances  are  very  low. 
Have  baptized  64  children  and  married  17  couples.'— 
George  Case. 

The  ministers  of  the  Canada  East  District  held  their 
Annual  Meeting  in  Montreal,  commencing  on  the  19th 
of  May,  1852.  On  every  station  there  had  been  ingath- 
ering of  souls,  but  from  removals  and  other  causes, 
the  increase  was  small.  Two  young  men  were  ordained 
for  special  purposes.  The  relation  of  the  District  to  the 
great  Wesleyan  Connexion  was  considered,  and  the 
Rev.  James  Brock  was  appointed  Representative  to  the 
Canada  Conference,  in  expectation  of  closer  union. 

Number  of  members,  3,740  and  243  on  trial. 

Sunday  school  teachers,  326:  scholars,  2,224. 

Missionary  income,  £844    6s.  iid. 

The  Rev.  Henry  Cox  received  his  credentials. 


82 


1.  Mathewson,  Mr.M.  A.  2.   Punshoii,;\Vin.  M.,  I.L.I).      3.  Nelles,  S.  S.,  LL.I>. 

4.  Woodsworth,  Mr.  Richard     5.  Mrs.  R.  Woodsworth  G.  .lefferis,  Rev.  Th.  M. 

7.  Rolston,  Rev.  It.  U.  S.  Mrs.  D.  D.  Kolston  'J.  McDonald,  Hon.  John 


I 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

1852-3. 

EXTENSION  AND   UNION. 

Conference,  Kingston — Jones — Warner — Tour — Camp-meeting— 
Jacobs — ^Squire — Crane  Band — Quebec — Vaux — Huntingdon 
— Eastern  District — Conference,  1853  Hamilton — Union — 
Gavatzzi — Westmeath — Pembroke — Revivals — Garden  River 
— Goderich — Churches — St.   George — Gage — Meeting. 

The  Canada  Conference  opened  in  Kingston  on  the 
2nd  of  June,  1852.  President — Rev.  Enoch  Wood; 
Secretary — Rev.  George  R.  Sanderson. 

Into  full  connection — Charles  Fish,  Alexander  Camp- 
bell, John  G.  Laird,  John  English,  Thomas  Peacock, 
John  S.  Evans,  John  Armstrong,  2nd,  Benjamin  Jones, 
Francis  Berry,  Edward  White. 

Nine  young  men  were  received  on  trial. 

Book  Steward — Anson  Green. 

Editor— J^mes  Spencer. 

Agent  for  Victoria  College — Samuel  D.  Rice. 

Egerton  Ryerson,  D.D.,  Chief  Superintendent  of  Edu- 
cation, and  Lachlin  Taylor,  Agent  of  the  U.  C.  Bible  So- 
ciety, with  permission  of  Conference.  Thomas  Demorest, 
Agent  for  Connexional  Funds.  John  Ryerson,  Repre- 
sentative to  British  Conference. 

Members,  26,213;  increase,  1,372. 

Superannuation    Fund    ^613  17  6 

Chapel  Relief  Fund 238  12  6 

Contingent  Relief  from  circuits 363  12  2 

Contingent  Relief  from  Book  Room 200     o  o 

Contingent  Relief  from  English  Conference  733     6  9 

£1,296  18  II 

The  Rev.  James  Brock,  Delegate  from  the  Canada 
East  District,  was  introduced. 

83 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  Rev.  Wm.  Case,  after  47  years  of  active  service, 
requested  relief,  which  was  granted. 
Census.  1851 — Upper  Canada,  950,530;  Toronto,  30,765. 

On  the  9th  of  July,  1852,  Peter  Jones  left  Toronto  for 
a  northern  tour.  *  At  Penetanguishene  I  was  joined  by 
Rev.  Lewis  Warner,  and  we  passed  on  to  Owen  Sound; 
thence  to  Bruce  Mines,  touching-  at  Garden  River,  where 
we  saw  Brother  McDougall  and  many  Indians,  glad  to 
give  us  a  shake  of  the  hand.  At  the  American  Sault,  an 
old  Chief  told  us  of  a  large  band  of  Ojibwas  beyond 
Lake  Superior ;  and,  said  he,  "  We  shall  no  doubt  become 
Christians  by  and  by."  Brother  Warner  preached  and 
I  spoke  to  them.  We  heard  there  was  a  prospect  of  a 
ship  canal ;  engineers  were  at  work  on  the  Canada  side. 
We  left  by  steamer  Baltimore,  and  by  break  of  day  on 
the  14th  we  were  off  White  Fish  Point.  We  made  for 
the  camp  ground,  where  we  all  entered  heartily  into  the 
work — four  days'  preaching,  interpreting,  praying,  and 
the  Holy  Spirit  was  present.  On  Saturday  afternoon  we 
had  a  missionary  meeting,  and  sixty  dollars  were  sub- 
scribed. In  the  love-feast,  Sunday  morning,  they  told 
what  the  Great  Spirit  had  done  for  them.  Eight  adults 
and  six  children  were  baptized  and  the  Lord's  Supper 
administered.  On  Monday  we  consulted  about  schools, 
farms  and  temperance.  Thus  ended  the  first  camp-meet- 
ing ever  held  on  the  shores  of  the  great  Superior, 
crowned  with  the  divine  blessing.  About  fifty,  we 
judged,  were  converted  or  reclaimed.  By  starting  early 
we  reached  Garden  Island  at  1 1  o'clock,  and  were  thank- 
ful for  a  good  bed,  after  sleeping  on  the  ground  every 
night  for  a  week.  The  Indian  Reserve  on  River  St. 
Marie  is  ten  miles  by  five.  We  selected  a  grove  for  next 
summer's  camp-meeting.  Sunday,  25th,  we  had  love- 
feast,  preaching  and  sacrament.  They  need  a  church 
and  a  model  farm.  Brother  McDougal  has  built  a  good 
house;  no  expense  to  the  society.  Julv  28th — We  left 
by  steamer  Detroit,  and  called  at  Bruce  Mines.  In  the 
Lake  Superior  copper  mines  ^  we  saw  blocks  of  6,000 
pounds.  We  were  in  Toronto  for  Sunday.  It  was  a 
iglorious  sight  to  see  the  hundreds  at  the  Lord's  table.* 

The  Rev.  John  Ryerson  wrote  of  his  favorable  recep- 

84 


EXTENSION   AND   UNION 

tion  by  the  Missionary  Committee  and  the  English  Con- 
ference; consultations  with  the  Hudson's  Bay  Co.,  and 
of  arrangements  freely  made  for  his  going  with  their 
boats  from  Montreal  next  spring, 

Peter  Jacobs  writes  from  Red  River,  June  21st,  1852: 
'  Left  Sault  Ste.  Marie  with  the  boats  from  Montreal 
and  reached  Red  River  after  41  days  hard  travelling. 
Most  of  the  people  lost  their  all  in  the  great  flood — 
houses  and  barns  going  down  the  current  nearly  every 
day.  I  leave  in  a  few  days  for  Norway  House,  thence 
to  Oxford  House  and  York  Factory.' 

The  Rev.  Wm.  Mason  writes  from  Rossville : 
'  Expecting  Peter  Jacobs — have  school  of  58  scholars, 
Gospel  of  St.  John  printed ;  repairing  the  church,'  etc. 
Peterborough — '  We  have  an  echo  of  Mr.  Caughey's 
labors — many  witnesses  in  the  love-feast  to  perfect  love 
— classes  well  attended — 80  additions  to  the  Sunday 
school  and  a  new  one  started ;  four  acres  of  land  bought 
for  £65  and  laid  out  for  a  cemetery.  Quarterly  Meeting 
at  Mud  Lake  Mission — full  house;  Rev.  Orrin  H.  Ells- 
worth, a  preacher  of  great  promise,  in  charge  of  mis- 
sion. Brother  Thomas  Hurlburt  has  arranged  to  visit 
these  Indians  and  attend  their  Quarterly  Meeting.  He 
preaches  on  the  Alderville  Mission  every  other  Sabbath 
in  addition  to  his  own  work  on  Rice  Lake  Mission.' — 

John  Gemley. 

Rev.  L.  O.  Rice,  of  Cookstown  Mission,  writes : 

'  Twelve  months  ago  we  had  neither  church  nor  par- 
sonage and  only  about  75  members.  We  now  have  a 
comfortable  parsonage  and  goodly  number  added  to 
the  Church.' 

On  the  8th  of  October,  1852,  the  first  locomotive 
engine  from  Toronto  was  run  a  few  miles  up  the 
Northern  R.R. 

A  camp-meeting  was  begun  on  the  Brampton  cir- 
cuit, Oct.  2nd. 

'  Several  services  were  held  on  Saturday.  Sunday 
was  showery,  but  good  congregations  filled  the  larger 
tents,  some  of  them  36x148.  From  Monday  morning 
the  weather  was  fine  and  the  services   were  continued 

85 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

with  little  intermission  until  Wednesday  noon.  The 
closing  exercises  exceeded  anything  I  ever  saw. 
Eternity  will  disclose  the  whole.' — Wm.  Young. 

The  Rev.  Wm.  Squire,  Montreal,  died  of  cholera, 
Oct.  17th,  1852,  aged  56  years — very  highly  esteemed 
for  his  work's  sake. 

The  "  Wesleyan  Dorcas  Society,"  Toronto,  received 
and  expended  during  the  year  £yi  si 7. 

Revivals  are  reported  from  very  many  circuits. 

Full  lists  of  missionary  meetings  indicate  the  univer- 
sality of  the  campaign. 

The  Hon.  Col.  Bruce,  after  visiting  the  Industrial 
Schools  at  Mount  Elgin  and  Alnwick,  reported  very 
favorably  of  the  work  being  accomplished  by  the  Revs. 
S.  Rose  and  William  Case ;  also — '  I  cannot  pass  over 
unnoticed  the  benefits  the  children  derive  from  the 
benevolent  care  of  Mrs.  Case  and  Mrs.  Rose,  in  the 
various  household  and  domestic  duties.' 

At  the  Scugog  Island  meeting — 

*  Chief  Jacob  Crane  was  called  to  the  chair  and  told 
what  he  knew  of  mission  work.  After  other  speeches 
the  Indians,  poor  and  few,  gave  i8    los.  4d.' 

Jan.  26th,  1853,  Rev.  John  Black  writes  from  Tren- 
ton :  *  Twenty-seven  years  ago  I  came  from  Kingston  to 
the  River  Trent.  I  saw  two  log  houses  and  crossed  this 
fine  stream  in  a  scow.  Now  there  is  the  incorporated 
X'illage  of  Trenton,  with  its  wharf,  covered  bridge,  its 
lumber  trade,  a  good  market  for  the  farmers,  and  a  fine 
Methodist  church,  dedicated  last  Sunday — a  high  day  for 
Stephen  and  Reuben  Yovmg,  Joseph  S.  Peterson,  and 
their  friends,  who  are  glad  to  leave  the  old  school  house 
for  their  beautiful  temple.' 

'  The  first  "  Steam  Horse  "—Niagara— for  the  Great 
Western  R.R.  has  arrived  in  Hamilton,  from  Massa- 
chusetts.'— Dundas  Warder,  Jan.,  1853. 

After  two  weeks'  hard  tugging  by  thirty-six  horses, 
it  passed  through  Dundas  on  its  way  to  Copetown. 

The    Rev.    James    Caughey    spent    three    months    in 

86 


EXTENSION   AND    UNION 

Kingston,  with  blessed  results  to  the  churches  and  the 
country  around. 

Mary  Sparrow  was  born  in  Ireland  in  1772,  married 
Mr.  Samuel  Switzer  in  1796,  came  to  Canada  in  1824 
and  settled  in  Toronto  Township,  where  after  years  of 
faithful  service,  she  died  Feb.  2nd,  1853. 

New  churches  have  been  opened  in  Grafton,  Essa, 
Port  Stanley,  Morpeth,  Fergus,  Bolton,  Thornhill. 
Goderich,  etc. 

Peter  Jacobs  writes,  March  i8th,  1853 : 

*  A  few  years  ago  I  visited  the  Crane  Band  of  Indi- 
ans, H.  B.  T.,  then  the  most  subtle  and  cruel  in  that 
region.  Their  chief  delight  was  to  steal  the  wives  from 
other  bands,  kill  the  children  and  awaken  the  spirit  of 
revenge.  When  I  read  to  them  the  Commandments  the 
Chief  said  someone  had  told  me  of  him  and  therefore  I 
had  written  these  commandments.  I  told  him  how  they 
were  written.  iWhen  I  visited  them  a  year  ago,  the 
whole  band  was  changed.  On  the  sixth  day  the  Chief 
would  have  the  guns,  bows,  and  nets  gathered  into  his 
own  wigwam  that  the  Sabbath  should  not  be  broken, 
and  then  pray  the  Great  Spirit  to  send  them  a  mission- 
ary. A  trader  said — ■"  They  trouble  me  all  day  to 
read  to  them  the  Bible."  It  was  kind  of  our  Belleville 
friend — Billa  Flint —  to  offer  £25  a  year  to  send  them  a 
missionary.' 

Rev.  Edward  Sallows  reports : 

'  Twenty-one  pounds  missionary  money  raised  at 
Bruce  Mines ;  an  enormous  quantity  of  cordwood  and 
shingles  on  the  banks  of  Garden  River — the  work  of 
a  few  Indians.  They  have  about  4,000  acres  and  have 
earned  $2,000  this  winter  cutting  wood.' 

Quebec,  Feb.  6th,  1853: 

'  On  the  25th  ult.  I  accompanied  the  Rev.  J.  Borland 
into  Lotbiniere  and  Megantic  counties  for  missionary 
anniversaries.  In  the  St.  Lawrence,  floating  ice  was 
moving  rapidly  and  crossing  was  dangerous.  But  the 
canoes  were  dexterously  managed  and  we  landed  safely. 
From  Point  Levi  in  a  cariole,  35  miles  to  St.  Sylvester, 
where  Rev.  Gifford  Dorev  has  had  an  extensive  revival. 

'  87 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Our  host  was  Mr.  Thomas  Mackie — local  preacher  and 
class  leader.  Next  morning  we  started  for  Lower  Ire- 
land— 19  miles — and  were  met  by  J.  R.  Lambly,  Esq., 
who  took  us  to  the  meeting — crossing  the  lofty  hills,  30 
below  zero,  our  buffalo  coats  scarcely  saved  us  from 
being  nipped.  The  pleasure  and  good  feeling  of  a  tea 
meeting  prepared  the  way  for  addresses  and  a  good 
collection.  We  stayed  over-night  with  James  Keough, 
Esq.,  father  of  the  Keough  brothers,  Toronto ;  and  re- 
turned to  Leeds  for  a  meeting  in  the  evening.' — Thomas 
Vaux. 

Huntingdon. — '  Scores  are  being  converted  on  this 
circuit — about  150  during  the  last  few  months.  Oir 
missionary  meeting,  bazaar  and  tea-meeting  exceeded 
expectations — about  £70.  We  never  witnessed  any- 
thing better — neither  in  Montreal,  Toronto,  nor  in  the 
Old  Country.' — George  H.  Davis. 

In  the  end  of  May,  1853,  the  Rev.  B.  Slight  writes: 

'  Another  Annual  Meeting  of  the  Canada  East  Dis- 
trict has  been  held.  Spiritually,  numerically  and  finan- 
cially we  are  making  progress.  Our  late  honored  Chair- 
man— Rev.  Wm.  Squire — has  left  a  character  not  often 
equalled  for  faithfulness  and  success.  Two  highly 
esteemed  brethren,  through  affliction,  have  asked  for  a 
supernumerary  relation.  By  a  unanimous  vote  we  agree 
to  unite  with  the  Canada  Conference;  the  laymen's  vote 
was  also  unanimous.  The  Rev.  Enoch  Wood,  as 
Chairman,  has  secured  our  highest  esteem.  As  a  me- 
mento he  was  presented  with  an  elegant  Bagster's  Bible, 
with  the  autograph  of  every  member  of  the  District. 
We  have  appointed  the  Revs.  John  Jenkins,  John  Bor- 
land, and  James  Brock  Representatives  to  the  Canada 
Conference.' 

The  Rev.  John  Jenkins,  Montreal,  was  presented  with 
a  service  of  plate  and  one  thousand  dollars  by  Montreal 
friends. 

The  Conference  of  1853  began  in  McNab  St.  Church, 
Hamilton,  on  the  ist  of  June. 

President — Rev.  Enoch  Wood  ;  Secretary — Rev.  Wel- 
lington Jeffers. 

88 


EXTENSION   AND   UNION 

Into  full  connection — Isaac  Barber,  Wm.  S.  Griffin, 
Andrew  Smith,  Ephraim  L,.  Koyle. 

The  Rev.-  John  Jenkins,  of  Montreal,  preached  the  or- 
dination sermon.  The  Rev.  John  Borland  preached  in 
the  evening. 

Nine  young  men  were  received  on  trial. 

Died — John  Culham,  Dec.  2nd,  1852,  aged  y6  years ; 
David  Robertson,  Feb.  8th,  1853,  in  his  24th  year. 
Book  Steward — Anson  Green,  D.D. 
Editor — James  Spencer. 
General  Agent — Thomas  Demorest. 
Members,  30,324;  increase,  2,739. 

Contingent   Fund    ^i)336  16    o 

Superannuation  Fund   616  18     9 

Chapel  Relief  Fund   260     i     4 

A  committee  met  in  consultation  with  the  Represen- 
tatives from  the  Eastern  District  and  reported  in  favor 
of  Union.  The  Report  was  adopted  by  the  Conference. 
The  consolidation  of  the  work  in  Eastern  and  Western 
Canada  was  presented  in  the  Address  to  the  English 
Conference  with  assurance  of  its  acceptability. 

Sunday  Schools,  Sunday  Observance,  Temperance 
and  other  important  interests  were  carefully  considered 
and  measures  adopted  for  their  promotion. 

Quarterly  Meetings  w^ere  to  be  consulted  in  re- 
gard to  an  annual  collection  for  Victoria  College  to 
afford  candidates  for  the  ministry  increased  opportuni- 
ties. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Friday  morning. 

A  lecture  in  Quebec  by  Gavazzi,  the  Italian  patriot, 
caused  a  riot  and  the  military  were  called  out.  Similar 
disturbances  attended  his  lectures  in  Montreal. 

Camp-meetings  were  held  in  North  Augusta,  Wilton, 
Mariposa,  Yonge  Street,  Peel,  Cookstown,  Newmarket, 
Mono,  Blenheim,  Strathroy,  Ingersoll,  St.  Vincent, 
Dumfries,  etc. 

89 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

On  the  6th  of  July,  1853,  the  steam  engine,  Toronto, 
on  a  trial  trip,  reached  Bradford,  42  miles,  in  an  hour 
and  four  minutes,  and  returned  to  Toronto  in  a  little 
less  time. 

During  the  labors  of  Rev.  James  Caughey  in  Hamil- 
ton, from  the  24th  of  March  to  the  5th  of  July,  about 
700  professed  conversion. 

The  English  Conference  approved  the  Union  in 
Canada. 

October  29th,  1853,  the  Rev.  Henry  Shaler  writes: 
'  While  you  have  railroads  and  steamboats,  we  are 
content  with  birch-barks.  I  have  just  returned  from  the 
northwest  extremity  of  the  Westmeath  Mission,  thirty 
miles  on  horseback^  then  seventy  in  canoe.  The  scenery 
of  the  grand  Ottawa  is  both  romantic  and  sublime,  but 
high  winds  and  cold  weather  marred  our  pleasure.  We 
preached  several  times,  baptized  some  children  and  solem- 
nized one  marriage.  In  Pembroke,  which  will  probably  be 
the  terminus  of  the  Brockville  and  Pembroke  R.R.,  our 
church  is  nearly  finished.' 

Revivals  are  reported  from  Newborough,  Picton,  St. 
George,  Dundas,  Sandwich,  etc. 

Heman  Hurlburt  was  born  in  Vermont,  Feb.  20th, 
1773.  In  1783  he  came  with  his  father  and  family  to 
Augusta.  In  1797  he  married  Hannah,  daughter  of 
Mr.  Nicholas  Moshier.  Of  eleven  sons  and  five  daugh- 
ters thirteen  reached  maturity — six  of  the  sons  becom- 
ing ministers,  five — Asahel,  Erastus,  Jesse,  Sylvester  and 
Thomas— members  of  the  Canada  Conference.  He 
died  on  the  24th  Nov.,  1853,  and  was  buried  in  the  Old 
Blue  Church  cemetery. 

The  Kingston  Ladies  Aid  and  Dorcas  Society  raised 
and  distributed  during  the  past  year  £165. 

Missionary  income  for  1852-3— £5,672 ;  increase 
£1,100. 

St.  Thomas,  Dec.  6th.—'  Debts  on  churches  growing 
less;  our  old  church  in  Fingal  giving  place  to  a  new 

90 


EXTENSION   AND   UNION 

one.      God    is   gloriously   reviving   His   work.'— Richard 
Whiting, 

Of  the  Garden  River  camp-meeting  the  Rev.  George 
McDoiigall   writes : 

'  On  Monday  the  Chainnan,  Rev.  C.  Vandusen,  arrived 
with  some  forty  of  the  Saugeen  and  Nawash  Indians, 
who  interested  and  astonished  their  native  brethren.  In 
some  of  the  camps  they  wrestled,  Jacob-like,  till  the 
break  of  day.  Friday  morning  the  Lake  Superior  fleet, 
some  sixteen  batteaux  and  mackinaws,  hove  in  sight. 
Twenty  lodges  were  added  to  the  encampment,  making 
45,  and  the  meeting  progressed  in  the  happiest  manner. 
Sunday  morning  as  the  sun  arose,  the  voice  of  praise 
and  prayer  told  of  the  brighter  Son  shedding  His  rays 
and  kindling  His  love  in  many  a  heart.  A  glorious 
work  of  faith  was  witnessed.  The  services  v^ere  all 
good,  the  love  feast  pre-eminently  so,  as  these  artless 
sons  of  the  forest  .told  what  God  had  done  for  them  their 
feelings  could  not  be  suppressed,  and  all  joined  in  giv- 
ing glory  to  the  Author  of  their  salvation.  Over  a 
hundred  had  been  greatly  blessed,  and  to  His  name  be 
the  praise.' 

The  Rev.  Henry  B.  Steinhaur  writes  from  Oxford 
House,  Dec.  3d,  1853 : 

'  There  are  only  four  families  and  three  widows 
spending  the  winter  with  us — all  comfortable  in  their 
houses,  pretty  well  supplied  with  fash,  and  rabbits  are 
numerous.  My  school  numbers  24,  much  in  need  of 
the  books  promised.' 

From  Goderich  the  Rev.  Charles  Silvester  writes : 

'  Our  membership  is  400  and  we  have  26  appoint- 
ments. The  railway  from  Buffalo  having  its  terminus 
here  tends  to  the  rapid  increase  of  population  in  town 
and  country.  Many  applications  for  preaching  are 
made  and  great  disappointment  felt  when  they  cannot 
be  met.' 

From  the  Mono  camp-meeting  the  revival  spread  to 
Snell's,  Sever's,  M'Guire's,  Mulmur,  etc.,  and  about  140 
were  received  on  trial. 

In  Dundas  about  a  linndred  conversions  were  reported  ; 

91 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

others  at  Lundy's  Lane,  Gosfield,  Sandwich,  Wind- 
sor, Sarnia,  Flos,  Markham,  etc.  New  churches  were 
dedicated  in  Cobourg,  SterHng,  Milton,  Norval,  Percy 
Mills,  Norwich,  Adjala,  Newboro,  London,  Metcalfe, 
Woodstock,  etc. 

Of  the  Cartwright  Mission,  the  Rev.  John  Sanderson 
writes : 

'  On  the  1 8th  of  Dec.  last  our  new  frame  church  was 
opened  by  our  Chairman — Rev.  G.  R.  Sanderson — and 
Rev.  Ch.  Fish.  The  Bowmanville  choir  came  out  to  orr 
tea-meeting.     About  £40  realized.' 

'  On  the  23d  of  January,  1854,  the  Indians  of  St. 
Clair  Mission  had  a  feast  in  their  chapel.  Their  women 
with  some  assistance,  did  the  cooking;  the  young  men 
decorated  with  flags  and  evergreens,  and  waited  on 
some  400.  Chief  Wawanosh  was  called  to  the  chair; 
singing,  prayer  and  addresses  followed.  Two  couples 
were  married.  The  whole  company  enjoyed  the  feast 
most  heartily.' 

Among  150  conversions  at  Cobourg  were  fifty  stu- 
dents of  Victoria  College. 

On  the  Port  Hope  Circuit  about  90  new  members 
were  received,  church  debts  mostly  paid  ofif  and  a  new 
church  built  at  Perry  Town. 

Newborough:  '  A  widow,  not  a  rich  one.  subscribed  £2 
for  missions,  and  one  of  the  members  £8.  He  has 
doubled  his  subscription  from  year  to  year  since  it  was 
a  dollar.' 

CoUingwood  Mission : 

'  Have  taken  up  four  new  appointments ;  received 
several  on  trial ;  a  class  and  good  company  at  the  Har- 
bor. This  will  be  a  flourishing  town.  Mr.  Smith's 
store  was  fitted  up  for  our  missionary  meeting.' 

'  St.  George  is  the  name  of  only  a  spot  in  East 
Dumfries;  we  have  also  West  Dumfries,  Waterloo, 
Beveriy,  parts  of  Brantford,  Sheffield,  Cariyle,  Doon, 
Bridgeport,  Gait,  with  a  population  of  3,000,  Preston, 
with  1,200,  and  Berlin,  our  County  Town;  nearly  500 
members,  territory  for  three  circuits.' — E.  Sallows. 


EXTENSION   AND   UNION 

'  Windsor,  terminus  of  G.  W.  R.  R.,  delightfully  sitr:- 
ated  on  the  Detroit  River,  half  a  mile  wide  at  this 
point,  is  now  incorporated  and  growing  rapidly,  yet  has 
not  a  house  of  worship.  The  few  Christians  in  the 
town  are  divided  among  five  or  six  denominations  and 
attend  their  churches  in  Detroit.  We  have  an  intense 
desire  to  honor  God  by  building  a  sanctuary.' — Edward 
White. 

Of  the  Devonshire  Mission,  Rev.  John  Webster 
writes — '  There  is  work  enough  for  two  preachers,  if  a 
second  could  be  obtained.' 

An  ominous  thrill  of  approaching  conflict  was  felt 
throughout  Canada  on  the  declaration  of  war  between 
Russia  and  Turkey,  March  28th,  1854. 

By  one  of  the  largest  audiences  ever  assembled  in 
Toronto,  the  Rev.  Dr.  Dufif,  missionary  from  India,  was 
greeted  in  Richmond  St.  Church,  April  loth,  1854. 

The  Rev.  Joseph  Sawyer,  one  of  the  earliest  Metho- 
dist preachers  in  Canada,  died  at  his  home,  near  New 
York,  April  18th,  1854,  aged  84  years. 

Proposals  from  the  Missionary  Committee,  London, 
for  the  transfer  of  the  Hudson's  Bay  Missions  to  the 
Canada  Conference,  having  been  accepted,  three  minis- 
ters are  preparing  to  start  for  those  distant  missions — 
Rev.  Thomas  Hurlburt,  for  Norway  House;  Rev.  Robt. 
Brooking,  for  Oxford  House;  and  Rev.  Allen  Salt,  for 
Lac  La  Pluie — all  in  charge  of  the  Rev.  John  Ryerson. 
A  farewell  service  was  held  in  the  Adelaide  St.  Church, 
Toronto,  May  15th,  1854. 

It  is  computed  that  50,000  Indians  are  open  to  mis- 
sionary effort  in  that  vast  territory. 

We  regret  that  our  space  does  not  admit  of  our 
noticing  the  deaths  of  many  worthy  members  of  our 
increasing  Methodist  family.  The  occasional  ones  that 
we  give  must  be  accepted  as  representatives  of  a  great 
number  of  names  worthy  of  remembrance,  and  to  be 
found  by  and  by  in  the  Book  of  Life. 

93 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Mr.  James  Gage,  of  Hamilton,  was  born  in  the  State 
of  New  York  in  1774,  and  at  the  age  of  sixteen,  with 
his  widowed  mother,  was  among  the  first  settlers  at 
Stoney  Creek.  There  he  married  Miss  Mary  Davis,  and 
their  home  was  for  many  years  the  welcome  stopping 
place  of  many  a  traveler.  Pleasant  stories  he  was 
wont  to  relate  of  Coleman,  Dunham,  Sawyer,  and  other 
early  itinerants.  Moving  into  Hamilton,  he  completed 
his  four-score  years,  honored  by  all  who  knew  him,  as 
a  generous  friend  and  consistent  Christian. 

The  old  wooden  church  at  Picton,  built  in  1821 — 
memorable  for  the  organization  of  the  first  Canada 
Conference  in  1824  and  for  the  Union  arrangements  of 
1832 — has  been  removed  and  preparations  begun  for 
a  new  one  of  stone. 

A  camp-meeting  was  held  near  Danville,  C.  E.,  in 
September,  and  though  but  an  experiment  in  that 
region,  it  proved  very  successful  and  opened  the  way 
for  several  protracted  meetings. 

The  Rev.  James  Caughey  commenced  work  in  Quebec 
about  the  middle  of  November  and  continued  for  four- 
teen! weeks,  over  three  hundred  professing  conversion. 

The  Rev.  Enoch  Wood  presided  at  the  Eastern  Dis- 
trict Meeting,  commencing  May  19th,  1854.  The  Revs. 
Dr.  Green  and  Wellington  Jeffers  attended  as  Delegates 
from  the  Canada  Conference.  With  the  hearty  con- 
currence of  the  laity  and  the  approval  of  the  English 
Conference,  union  with  the  Canada  Conference  was  de- 
clared desirable.  The  Revs.  John  Borland  and  Malcolm 
McDonald  were  appointed  Representatives  to  the  Can- 
ada Conference. 


94 


CHAPTER  IX. 

i8S4. 
FROM  THE  ATLANTIC  TO  THE  PACIFIC. 

Conference,  Belleville — Sault  Ste.  Marie — Ryerson — Selkirk — 
Mrs.  Palmer — Case — Kirkendall — Slight — Hudson's  Bay — 
Wcodsworth — Beecham — Conference,  1855 — Eastern  Confer- 
ences —  Camp-meetings  —  College  location  —  Hurlburt — Ma- 
tilda— Wallace — Belmont — Boomer. 

On  the  7th  of  June,  1854,  Conference  assembled  in 
Belleville. 

President — Rev.  Enoch  Wood;  Secretary — Rev.  I.  B. 
Howard ;  Journal  Secretary — Rev.  Reuben  E.  Tupper. 

About  one  hundred  ministers  were  present.  The 
Delegates  from  the  Eastern  District  were  introduced — 
Revs.  J.  Borland,  J.  Brock  and  M.  McDonald. 

The  annual  meeting  of  Victoria  College  was  held. 
About  one  hundred  scholarships  had  been  sold. 

Into  full  connection — Joel  Briggs,  Joseph  Hugill,  Wm. 
Creighton,  G€0.  McDougall,  John  W.  German,  William 
Burns,  Silas  Huntingdon,  John  Hutchinson,  Thomas 
Stobbs,  Matthew  Swann.  Thomas  Culbert,  George  Mc- 
Ritchie,  Nelson  Brown,  Richard  M.  Hammond,  Robert 
Graham,  Richard  Wilson. 

Twenty-four  young  men  were  received  on  trial. 

Died — George  Poole,  Sept.  nth,  1853,  aged  53  years. 
James  Booth,  Jan.  22nd,  1854,  aged   73  years. 

Book  Stexvard — George  R.  Sanderson. 

Editor — James  Spencer. 

Representative   to   Eng.   Conf. — Anson    Green,    D.D. 

The  English  Conference,  addressing  the  Canada 
Conference,  said :  *  We  have  heard  with  great  satisfac- 
tion of  the  desire  which  exists  among  the  ministers  and 

95 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

members  of  our  churches  in  the  Eastern  Canada  Dis- 
trict to  be  incorporated  with  the  Canada  Conference. 
We  believe  that  the  consummation  of  this  purpose  will 
greatly  increase  the  stability  and  usefulness  of  Wes- 
leyan  Methodism  in  your  country;  we  cordially  approve 
of  the  steps  you  have  already  taken,  and  assure  you 
that  all  suitable  means  will  be  employed  to  complete 
the  arrangement.' 

A  Committee  was  appointed  to  consult  with 
the  Delegates  from  the  Eastern  District.  This 
Committee  reported  favorably  and  their  report  was 
adopted  unanimously.  Thus  was  the  Union  accom- 
plished, subject  only  to  ratification  by  the  English  Con- 
ference. At  the  ensuing  English  Conference  the  rati- 
fication was  eflfected.  In  anticipation  of  this  final  con- 
summation the  ministers  were  stationed — those  of  the 
East  according  to  a  draft  submitted  by  the  District. 

Members,  Canada  Conference,  32.364;  increase,  2,040. 
Members,  Eastern  District,  3,954;  increase.  219. 

Contingent  Fund ^1.449  13s.     yd. 

Superannuation  Fund ^694     9s.     8d. 

Chapel  Relief  Fund £315  iis.   lod. 

In  the  Address  to  the  members  reference  was  made  to 
the  taking  over  of  the  Hudson's  Bay  Missions  and  the 
incorporation  of  the  Eastern  District.  "  We  have  now 
before  us  the  whole  of  that  large  section  of  North 
America  extending  from  the  Atlantic  to  the  Pacific  and 
from  the  St.  Lawrence  to  the  Arctic  Ocean." 

To  the  English  Conference :  *  The  transfer  of  your 
missions  in  Hudson's  Bay  Territory  has  greatly  en- 
larged the  field  of  our  operations  and  furnished  a  fresh 

incentive  to  the  generosity  of  our  people Our 

special  acknowledgments  are  oflFered  to  God  for  the 
delightful  Union  just  formed  tetwen  the  Wesleyan 
Societies  of  Eastern  Canada  and  our  Conference,  which 
you  so  cordially  sanctioned.' 

96 


I 


FROM    SEA   TO   SEA 

A  total  of  238  preachers  were  stationed  and  thirty 
or  forty  more  are  required. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Hurlburt  writes  from  Sault  Ste. 
Marie,  June  14th,  1854: 

'  Twenty-two  years  ago  I  explored  the  territory  where 
the  Garden  Island  Mission  is  now  established,  recom- 
mended it,  and  am  happy  to  see  the  present  success. 
Native  assistants  should  be  sent  out  throug-h  all  this 
region,  and  there  are  some  available,  at  very  small  out- 
lay.    We  are  waiting  the  arrival  of  Br.  Ryerson.' 

Peter  Jones  went  to  a  Convention  in  Syracuse,  N.  Y., 
attended  by  three  hundred  Christian  Indian  Delegates, 
for  the  consideration  of  unity  among  their  people  and 
plans  for  their  future  welfare.  They  contrasted  their 
present  experience  with  the  days  of  savage  warfare, 
deliberated  and  voted  upon  many  questions,  and  such 
gracious  influence  rested  upon  them  that  they  praised 
the  Lord  and  shouted  for  joy. 

'  Not  for  a  long  time  have  I  seen  such  noble  speci- 
mens of  Indians.  I  thought  mvself  pretty  tall,  but  many 
of  the  Senecas,  Oneidas,  and  Onondagas  far  outcapped 
me.' 

The  Rev.  John  Ryerson  writes  from  Fort  William, 
July  3rd,  1854,  of  '  the  dilapidated  Block-house  and  a 
large  stone  storehouse,  with  walls  three  feet  thick — deso- 
lated remains  of  former  grandeur.  On  the  farm  grains 
and  vegetables  were  raised  and  all  kinds  of  domestic 
animals  kept.  On  Sunday  we  held  services ;  visited  the 
Catholic  Priest  and  were  shown  over  their  premises  — 
a  chapel  and  several  houses  built  during  the  past  year. 
We  are  here  nine  days  waiting  the  canoes  for  Norwav 
House.' 

July  i8th,  Mr.  Hurlburt  writes  from  Lac  La  Pluie: 

'  Arrived  safely,  twelve  davs  from  Fort  William- 
long  portages  and  much  rain.  Indians  friendlv.  Pi'- 
Salt  has  a  good  house  and  the  prosnect  of  plentv  to 
eat.  Rice,  fish  and  vegetables  plentiful.  The  Indians 
are  scattered  to  their  hunting  grounds,  but  will  return 
in  the  fall.  Br.  Ryerson  left  this  morning  for  Red 
River,  and  will  meet  us  at  Norway  House.* 

7  97 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Lord,  Selkirk's  Settlement: — 'In  1811  the  Hudson's 
Bay  Company  ceded  to  Lord  Selkirk  the  immense  tract 
from  the  sources  of  the  streams  flowing  east  into  Lake 
Winnipeg,  westward  to  the  western  boundary  of  the 
great  plains  of  the  Saskatchewan,  and  from  the  head 
waters  of  the  line  of  the  National  Boundary  between 
the  United  States  and  British  America.  To  plant  a 
colony  in  such  a  climate  and  wilderness  was  an  under- 
taking of  tremendous  magnitude.  The  earliest  colonists 
were  from  the  Highlands  of  Scotland — attracted  by  the 
romance  of  the  enterprise.  In  thirty  years  the  Red 
River  Colony  has  becomic  the  most  thriving  region  of 
the  North-West — Canadian  French  in  the  north  and 
Scotch  in  the  south.* 

Through  the  summer  months  camp-meetings  were 
held  on  the  Ernestown,  Yonge  Street,  Mono,  Peel, 
Blenheim,  Bradford,  Owen  Sound  and  other  circuits. 
At  some  of  them  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Palmer,  of  New  York, 
very  greatly  helped.  Mrs.  Palmer's  books  on  Holiness 
and  the  Guide  to  Holiness  had  been  widely  read  in 
Canada,  and  opened  the  way  for  her  personal  ministries. 
Mrs.  Margaret  Taylor,  of  Toronto,  accompanied  Mrs. 
Palmer  to  many  of  these  great  country  gatherings  and 
their  labors  proved  a  general  benediction  in  quickening 
spiritual  life  and  arousing  attention  to  the  Methodist 
and  Scriptural  doctrine  of  holiness  in  heart  and  life. 

In  July  Revs.  Wm.  Case,  Vandusen  and  Geo.  Mc- 
Dougall  made  an  extensive  tour  on  Lake  Superior  and 
visited  many  bands  of  Indians. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Green  reached  England  July  22nd,  and 
sent  very  interesting  accounts  of  the  men  he  met,  the 
sermons  he  heard,  and  the  Conference.  '  I  left  the  Con- 
ference with  reluctance,  but  under  the  conviction  of  the 
mighty  influence  such  sermons  and  prayers  as  I  heard 
must  produce  throughout  the  Connexion,' 

98 


FROM    SEA   TO    SEA 

Mr.  David  Kirkendall,  of  Hamilton,  was  born  in  New 
Jersey  in  1760,  came  to  Canada  in  1810,  purchased  a 
farm  on  which  much  of  Hamilton  was  afterwards  built, 
and  united  with  the  Methodist  Church  in  1825;  his  life 

was  marked  by  gratitude  and  liberality  until,  in  his  95th 
year,  he  departed  to  be  forever  with  the  Lord. 

'  The  union  of  our  Eastern  with  the  Western  work 
will  be  an  era  in  the  history  of  Methodism  in  Canada, 
and  will  be  looked  back  upon  with  high  satisfaction. 
Our  Quarterly  Meetings  have  so  expressed  themselves 
and  will  send  delegates  to  the  Special  Meeting  in  Kings- 
ton. Methodism  stands  high  in  the  Eastern  Townships 
and  with  a  larger  effusion  of  the  Holy  Spirit  will  be 
very  prosperous.' — Benjamin  Slight. 

The  Rev.  Th,  Hurlburt  reached  Rossville  on  the  4th 
of  August  and  with  Henry  Steinhaur  held  services  with 
the  Indians.  '  The  mission  is  on  an  island,  good  land, 
a  good  garden  with  choice  vegetables;  the  finest  of 
rhubarb,  plenty  of  whitefish,  Indians  numerous  and 
friendly.  In  the  spring  and  summer  1,500  lodges, 
mostly  Crees,  numbering  12.000,  tent  on  the  plains. 
What  a  glorious  opportunity  for  a  camp-meeting!' 

On  the  9th  of  August  the  Rev.  John  Ryerson  arrived 
at  Norway  House. 

'  I  found  Indians  from  the  Saskatchewan,  13  boats 
manned  by  a  hundred  men,  on  a  five  months'  trip.  Miss 
Adams  will  have  her  hands  full  with  sixty  scholars. 
In  the  year  1669,  the  Hudson's  Bav  Company,  under 
the  direction  of  Prince  Rupert,  was  formed  in  London, 
for  the  fur  trade.  The  charter  granted  by  Charles  II. 
gave  the  Company  the  exclusive  right  of  trading  in  all 
the  country  watered  by  rivers  flowing  into  Hudson's 
Bay.  The  Company  was  authorized  to  build  and  fit  out 
men-of-war,  establish  forts,  and  do  everything  neces- 
sary to  protection ;  but  was  required  to  promote  dis- 
covery and  the  religious  and  moral  interests  of  the  na- 
tives. The  Company  established  a  fort  or  trading  place 
at  the  head  of  James'  Bay,  called  Moose  Eactorv,  and 

99 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

other  forts.  It  was  soon  found  that  an  earlier  company^ 
the  North- Western,  was  in  the  same  trade.  Strife 
between  the  two  companies  was  continued  until  1821, 
when  they  united.  The  vast  region  was  divided .  into 
four  Departments  and  these  into  Districts,  with  officers, 
depots,  factories,  etc.,  and  multitudes  of  men  were 
employed  Under  the  Home  Committee  a  Governor  was 
appointed.  The  present  Governor  is  Sir  George  Simp- 
son. In  the  two  brigades  with  which  I  came  from 
Norway  House  to  York  there  were  eight  boats  loaded 
with  furs,  from  the  Mackenzie  River,  in  each  boat  42 
packs  of  furs,  averaging  iy^  each,  a  total  of  £25,000 
in  the  English  market.  In  the  year  1848  there  were 
sold  at  the  Company's  premises  in  London,  21,348 
Beaver  skins,  541  lbs.  of  pieces;  6.588  Otter,  1,102 
Fishers,  900  Silver  Fox  and  19,440  White,  Red,  etc. ; 
31,151  Lynx,  11,292  Wolf,  908  Wolverine,  150,785 
Marten,  30,103  Mink,  195  Sea  Otter,  150  Seal,  299 
Bear,  18,553  Muskrat,  1,651  Swan,  632  Cat,  2,889  Deer, 
2,090  Raccoon,  etc.,  making  an  annual  average  of  about 
£200,000.  besides  large  quantities  exported  to  the  Con- 
tinent, United  States,  Canada,  etc.  I  have  been  most 
kindly  treated  by  the  officers.' 

By  Rev.  Robert  Brooking: 

'  We  find  the  Company  very  favorable  to  our  missions 
and  liberal.  The  fact  that  the  sale  of  liquors  is  pro- 
hibited as  far  as  possible  is  a  great  boon.' 

Camp-meetings  have  been  held  on  Guelph,  Brampton, 
Napanee  and  other  circuits;  on  many  others  revival 
meetings  are  being  held. 

A  meeting  of  the  Conference  Special  Committee 
and  Representatives  from  the  Quarterly  Meetings  was 
held  in  Kingston  in  October,  at  which  many  important 
changes  were  made  in  financial  arrangements. 

New  churches  have  been  built  at  South  W.  River, 
London,  Yorkville,  Ingersoll.  Plainville.  Love's,  Bates', 
Mascouche,  Wesleyville,  Norwood,  Newboro,  Rawdon, 
Elm  St.,  Toronto,  &c. 

The  Sixth  Annual  Report  of  the  Methodist  Dorcas 
100 


FROM   SEA  TO   SEA 

Society,  Toronto,  showed  receipts  of  £56  9s.  46. ;  257 
garments  distributed. 

Income  of  the  Missionary  Society,  1854 — £7,S39',  in- 
crease, ii,866. 

Edward  Jackson,  of  Augusta,  a  worthy  member  of 
the  Methodist  Church,  died  on  the  9th  of  March,  1855, 
over  one  hundred  years  of  age. 

Resokitions  expressing  grateful  appreciation  of  the 
character  and  labors  of  Messrs.  Richard  Woodsworth 
and  Charles  Robinson  were  presented  them  by  the 
Official  Board  of  Toronto  West  Circuit,  on  their  re- 
moval to  other  circuits. 

To  reduce  the  debt  on  the  Yorkville  Church,  Mr. 
George  White  paid  £250,  Mr.  Bloor,  £200;  Mr.  Alcorn, 
£200;  Mr.  B.  Bull,  £125;  Messrs.  H.  Routledge  and  G. 
Rowell,  £25  each,  and  others  smaller  sums.  Mr.  Bloor 
also  presented  £700  as  a  donation  on  annuity. 

Sixteen  letters  from  the  Rev.  John  Ryerson  to  the 
Rev.  Enoch  Wood,  with  other  letters  and  documents 
relating  to  the  Hudson's  Bay  Territory  were  published 
in  a  booklet. 

The  Rev.  John  Beecham,  D.D.,  appointed  Represen- 
tative to  the  Canada  Conference,  1855,  was  instructed 
also  to  visit  the  Eastern  Provinces  and  investigate  the 
probability  of  further  plans  for  the  benefit  of  the  mis- 
sions in  those  parts.  On  his  arrival  in  Halifax,  May 
24th,  1855,  he  held  a  preliminary  meeting  of  ministers 
and  laymen,  and  submitted  a  proposal  for  the  forma- 
tion of  an  Eastern  Conference,  to  embrace  the  entire 
work  in  Nova  Scotia,  New  Brunswick,  Prince  Edward 
Island,  Newfoundland,  and  the  Bermudas.  The  pro- 
ject met  with  general  favor,  and  was  left  for  future 
consideration.  Dr.  Beecham  proceeded  to  London, 
where  the  Canada  Conference  assembled  on  the  6th  of 
June,  1855. 

TOI 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

President — Rev.  Enoch  Wood. 

Secretary — Rev.  Samuel  D.  Rice. 

Into  full  connection — G.  N.  A.  F.  T.  Dickson,  Edward 
H.  Dewart,  Wm.  Richardson,  James  Harris,  Thomas 
Crews,  John  Shaw,  John  Mills,  Aaron  Miller, 
Thomas  Woolsey,  Robert  Brewster,  Robert  Hobbs, 
Henry  McDowell,  James  H.  Bishop,  Henry  Steinhaur, 
Thomas     Robson,    Richard    Clarke^   Thomas    Lawson. 

Thirty-one  young  men  were  received  on  trial. 
Diedt— Andrew  Prindle,  Jan.  14th,  1855,  aged  74  years. 
John  Williams,  Aug.   15th,   1854,  aged  36  years. 
Lucius  Adams,  Aug.  29th,  1854,  aged  25  years. 
James  Taylor,  ,  1854,  aged  28  years. 

Members,  37,885;  increase  1,562. 

Contingent  Fund    ^i-572  18     9 

Superannuation  Fund    7^9  ^5     5 

Chapel  Relief  Fund   350  10     3 

Book  Steward — George  R.   Sanderson. 

Editor — James  Spencer. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Beecham,  Representative  of  the  English 
Conference,  arrived  on  Saturday  and  presented  the  ad- 
dress of  his  Conference.  As  previously  requested  by 
the  Conference,  the  Rev.  William  Case,  who  had  com- 
pleted his  fiftieth  year  in  the  ministry,  preached  a  Jubilee 
sermon. 

The  time  a  minister  may  remain  on  a  circuit 
was  extended  from  three  to  five  years,  conditioned  on 
a  vote  of  the  Quarterly  meeting  for  the  third,  fourth,  and 
fifth  years.  Certain  changes  in  our  financial  economy 
adopted  by  the  Special  Meeting  of  ministers  and  lay 
delegates  at  Kingston  and  endorsed  by  the  Quarterly 
Meetings,  were  submitted  and  approved.  These  were 
published  in  the  minutes  of  that  meeting  and  in  the  Dis- 
cipline. 

The    services     of     the     Rev.    Anson    Green,    D.D.. 
Representative  to  the  English  Conference,  were  thank 
•fully  acknowledged.    The  Revs.  Matthew  Richey,  D.D., 
Enoch  Wood,  and  John  Ryerson  were  appointed  to  ac- 

T02 


FROM    SEA   TO    SEA 

company  Dr.  Beecham  and  assist  in  the  organization  of 
the  Eastern  British  American  Conference. 

The  brethren  of  the  Eastern  Provinces  assembled  in 
Hahfax,  July  17th,  1855.  Dr.  Beecham  took  the  chair, 
and  Rev.  William  Temple  was  elected  Secretary.  The 
Delegates  from  the  Canada  Conference  were  introduced. 
Resolutions  from  the  several  districts  were  presented 
approving  of  the  proposed  organization  of  an  Eastern 
British  American  Conference.  '  By  this  Conference  the 
missions  in  Nova  Scotia,  New  Brunswick,  Prince  Ed- 
ward Island,  Cape  Breton,  Newfoundland,  and  Ber- 
muda were  constituted  a  distinct  but  affiliated  connexion, 
to  be  called  "  The  Wesleyan  Methodist  Connexion  or 
Church  of  Eastern  British  America."  Dr.  Beecham  was 
the  first  President  and  Dr.  Richey  received  the  appoint- 
ment of  Co-Delegate.' 

Dr.  Beecham  sailed  for  England,  reported  to  the 
English  Conference  his  successful  mission,  and  resumed 
his  official  duties  as  Missionary  Secretary,  which  he 
continued  until  the  26th  of  April,  1856,  when  he  was 
summoned  from  his  labors  on  earth  to  his  rest  in  heaven. 

The  visit  of  Dr.  Beecham  to  Canada  was  regarded  by 
ministers  and  people  generally  as  a  very  great  blessing. 
His  addresses  and  sermons  were  permeated  by  spiritual 
fervor;  his  associations  with  the  brethren  were  marked 
by  simplicity  and  kindness,  and  his  official  acts  bore  the 
stamp  of  experience  and  wisdom.  The  strain  of  con- 
stant travel  and  urgent  duty  proved  too  great  for  his 
advanced  years. 

Camp-meetings — a  first  experience,  1855; 

'  I  had  attended  every  form  of  popular  assembly  from 
a  logging  bee  and  back-woods  town  meeting  to  the  ses- 
sions of  the  Legislative  Assembly ;  and  every  kind  of 
religious  worship  from  Quakers  to  Ranters,  except  a 
Methodist  Camp-meeting.  To  attend  one  I  started  for 
Gait.  There  is  no  difficulty  in  finding  the  place.  The 
almost   ceaseless   sound  of  voices,   singing  and   praymg 

103 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

with  right  good  will  seems  like  a  call  to  wanderers 
to  "  turn  in  hither."  On  first  mingling  with  the  crowd 
and  witnessing  the  uncommon  earnestness  in  a  prayer- 
meeting  in  the  woods,  I  was  a  little  surprised,  but  took 
Bunyan's  advice — 

"  Yet  since  your  brethren  pleased  with  it  be, 
Forbear  to  judge  till  you  do  further  see." 

*  A  striking  kindness,  generosity  and  affection  circu- 
late among  the  people,  reminding  one  of  the  unity  and 
simplicity  of  early  times.  There  is  a  withdrawal  from 
secular  cares,  a  devotedness  to  the  services  that  I  have 
scarcely  ever  witnessed  anywhere  else,  and  a  religious 
feeling  deeper  than  ordinary.  The  evening  services  are 
specially  solemn  and  imposing.  The  blazing  fires  on  the 
high  stands,  the  tall  trees,  like  sentinels  guarding  the 
worship  of  the  Bternal  King,  the  profound  silence, 
broken  only  by  the  voice  of  the  preacher  warning  and 
beseeching,  form  a  picture  impressive  and  sublime. 
Noise  and  confusion  there  may  sometimes  be,  but  if 
sinners  deeply  convinced' of  sin,  cry  out  by  reason  of  the 
disquietude  of  their  souls,  who  may  forbid?  Many  are 
awakened  and  converted.  If  God  works  it  is  not  for 
man  to  dictate  the  mode  of  His  working.  "  If  this  work 
be  of  God,  ye  cannot  overthrow  it."  ' 

Another  testimony: 

'  I  do  admire  and  esteem  these,  to  me,  peculiar  means 
of  grace.  In  Ireland  we  had  them  not;  and  I  prize 
this,  my  adopted  country,  especially  on  account  of  the 
superior  privileges.  The  camp-meeting  I  account  as 
one  of  the  highest  privileges  this  trans-Atlantic  clime 
affords.' 

'  Mr.  Editor. — As  the  time  has  nearly  arrived  for  the 
commencement  of  the  27th  volume  of  your  highly  en- 
tertaining paper,  allow  me  to  say  that  the  more  I  peruse 
it  the  better  I  like  it.  When  I  first  subscribed  it  was  with 
much  coaxing;  the  next  year  no  coaxing  was  necessary 
and  for  the  third  year  I  sent  the  money  lest  the  agent 
might  not  call.  Now,  with  my  own  I  send  you  three 
other  names  and  the  money.' — ^Veritas. 

Mr.  Nathaniel  Griffin,  born  in  1776,  in  the  State  of 
New  York,  after  a  life  of  much  usefulness  in  the  Can- 

104 


FROM    SEA   TO    SEA 

ada  Methodist  Church — a  local  preacher  at  Smithville 
and  afterwards  at  Thirty  Mile  Creek — died,  Aug.  27th, 
1855,  nearing  his  eightieth  year. 

The  fall  of  Sebastopol,  September  8th,  1855,  has 
lifted  a  load  of  anxiety  from  Britain  and  her  colonies, 
and  all  join  in  a  shout  of  triumph  to  the  allied  forces  and 
in  thanksgiving  to  the  God  of  battles. 

The  venerable  Father  Case  died  on  the  19th  of  Octo- 
ber, 1855,  at  the  age  of  75  years,  the  result  of  a  fall  from 
his  horse.  He  was  buried  at  Alnwick,  among  the  people 
for  whom  he  had  lived  and  toiled  so  long.  The  record 
of  his  ministerial  life  begins  with  1805,  when  as  a  youth- 
ful volunteer  he  came  into  the  wilds  of  Canada.  Of  the 
rugged  labors  and  privations  of  the  pioneer  itinerant  he 
had  a  full  share.  He  lived  in  the  confidence  of  his 
brethren,  meekly  accepting  the  honors  they  conferred 
upon  him,  and  in  calm,  cheerful  resignation  withdrew 
from  the  field  when  he  had  finished  'the  work  given  him 
to  do. 

Mrs.  James  Falconer,  born  in  Albany,  N.Y.,  in  1770, 
came  at  the  age  of  six  years  with  her  parents  to  Canada, 
and  about  twenty  years  later  became  the  wife  of  Mr. 
Falconer,  Toronto  Township.  Her  attachment  to  the 
Methodist  Church,  her  piety  and  hospitality  became  pro- 
verbial. Her  useful  life  came  to  a  sudden  close  Novem- 
ber 14th,  1855. 

Mr.  Andrew  Cheney,  of  the  Centre  Road,  near  Bramp- 
ton, came  from  County  Tyrone  in  1819,  and  his  home 
early  became  a  resting-place  for  his  saddle-bag  visitors, 
and  so  continued  until  his  death,  January  19th,  1856. 

The  Rev.  T.  W.  Constable  reports  a  successful  series 
of  missionary  and  tea  meetings  at  Magog,  St.  Francis, 
Lennoxville,  Eaton,  Sawyerville,  Dudswell,  Brompton, 
and  other  places  in  the  Eastern  Townships — '  a  vast 
area  demanding  large  increase  of  laborers.' 

In  January,  1856,  Victoria  College,  with  220  students, 
105 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

was  overcrowded,  and  there  was  a  prospect  of  many 
more.  It  was  thought  that  there  should  be  an  Institu- 
tion for  female  education.  The  Rev.  S.  D.  Rice  thus 
presents  his  proposals : 

*  The  buildings  at  Cobourg  cannot  well  be  enlarged. 
They  were  intended  originally  for  the  education  of  both 
sexes,;  and  if  they  should  be  used  henceforth  for  a 
Ladies'  Academy,  it  would  not  be  a  great  diversion  from 
the  original  purpose.  For  the  college  there  are  strong 
arguments  in  favor  of  a  small,  healthy  and  prosperous 
town.  The  great  and  numerous  incentives  to  vice  and 
dissipation  which  abound  in  large  cities,  like  Toronto, 
would  oppose  insuperable  objections  to  the  selection  of 
such  localities.  Will  not  some  of  our  wealthy  people 
show  they  are  equal  to  the  demands  of  the  age  and  of 
the  Church?     We  await  their  response  to  this  appejil.' 

Mr.  Rice  wrote  again  on  the  ist  of  February,  1856: 

'  We  require  two  Institutions  to  meet  the  pressing 
wants  of  these  times.  If  we  can  build  one  and  furnish 
it  for  300  boarders  and  furnish  the  other  for  100  board- 
ers, and  do  it  for  £15,000,  I  think  all  would  be  satisfied. 
How  can  this  amount  be  raised?  Suppose  twelve  per- 
sons agree  to  supply  $500  each ;  or  2,000  shares  be  sold 
at  $30  each;  or  certain  localities  might  contribute 
largely  to  secure  the  college.' 

These  projects  and  Mr.  Rice's  appeal  awakened  con- 
siderable interest  and  much  correspondence.  The 
writers  generally  fell  in  with  the  idea  that  a  small  town 
should  be  the  location  for  Victoria  College,  but  after  a 
few  letters  had  appeared  the  Editor  says :  '  Under  "  Lo- 
caiion  of  Our  Literary  Institutions "  readers  of  the 
Guardian  will  find  a  carefully  written  communication 
with  views  very  different  from  those  recently  set  forth 
by  us.  Our  correspondent  X.  Y.  is  the  first  to  enter  the 
field,  and  his  s+rictures  may  call  forth  the  comments  of 
others.'     X.  Y.  begins  : 

'  The  editorials  and  correspondence  which  have  re- 
cently appeared  in  the    Christian    Guardian  respecting 

106 


FROM    SEA   TO    SEA 

Victoria  College  and  the  proposed  Ladies'  Academy 
have  not  been  read  without  awakening  interest.  .  .  . 
A  question  of  great  importance,  still  pending,  is,  Where 
shall  these  Institutions  be  located?  For  the  College  the 
preference  seems  to  be  a  small  town — not  a  city.  This 
may  be  a  popular  view,  but  we  think  it  erroneous  and 
one  that  would  prove  detrimental  to  the  interests  of  ,the 
College.  In  a  financial  aspect  it  might  appear  economi- 
cal, as  a  site  could  be  secured  at  small  cost.  But 
grounds  sufficiently  extensive  could  be  purchased  in  or 
near  Toronto,  and  the  money  would  be  more  readily 
contributed,  being  convenient  to  the  homes  of  many 
whose  sons  would  attend,  and  their  patronage  would  be 
of  value.  That  men  of  means  would  locate  ten  miles 
from  their  business  for  purposes  of  education  may 
seem  possible,  but  not  very  probable.  The  inducements 
of  a  village  residence  cannot  balance  the  advantages  of 
city  life ;  and  few  parents  living  in  Toronto  would  be 
disposed  to  send  their  sons  a  distance  when  excellent 
schools  are  at  their  doors.  But  educational  and  finan- 
cial interests  blend.  The  number  and  class  of  students 
supplied  by  the  locality  will  influence  the  finances.  The 
impression  prevails  that  the  best  of  educational  advan- 
tages are  afiforded  by  the  city.  Hundreds  would  send 
to  Toronto  for  tens  that  would  send  to  a  village  or  small 
town.  Among  these  would  be  many  of  the  best  busi- 
ness and  professional  men  who  wish  for  their  sons  not 
a  literary  training  only,  but  an  education — to  see  men 
and  things  as  they  cannot  in  small  places  and  to  imbibe 
somewhat  of  the  enterprise  they  witness.  These  in- 
fluences are  spurs  to  students  in  their  preparation  for 
active  life.  Nor  are  these  incentives — incentives  to  in- 
dustry and  high  attainment  which  country  villages  fail 
to  supply — unfavorable  to  morality  and  religion.  Rather 
are  they  effective  in  fostering  sentiments  of  self-respect 
and  development  which,  without  them,  might  never 
exist.  Incentives  to  vice  may  more  abound  in  cities 
than  in  small  towns,  but  safeguards  are  also  more 
numerous  and  more  powerful.  Villages  and  towns  may 
be  more  dangerous  to  morals  than  cities.' 

Dr.     Olin,    whose    religious    character    and    literary 
standing  give  to  his  words  the  stamp  of  authority,  says: 

T07 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

*  There  is  no  field  for  discipline,  or  action,  or  enjoy- 
ment like  the  thronged  centres  of  population  arid  busi- 
ness, where  the  battle  of  life  is  waged  upon  the  largest 
scale  and  the  incentives  to  strenuous  effort  are  ever  the 
most  urgent  and  significant.  The  citizen  has  ever  before 
him  the  best  models  for  imitation;  the  best  means  for 
the  cultivation  of  the  intellect  and  acquisition  of  knowl- 
edge, the  ablest  men  in  arts  and  science,  the  most 
learned  and  famous  in  the  professions,  the  most  eloquent 
speakers,  the  most  attractive  writers,  diffusing  such 
intelligence  and  refinement  as  are  not  found  in  rural 
districts.' 

Several  letters  followed,  with  suggestions  of  sites,  one 
of  them  near  Pembroke. 

In  the  Guardian  of  February  27th  a  communication, 
signed  "  Nimmo  "  appeared,  in  answer  to  "  X.  Y.,"  and 
opposing  a  city  location  because  of  the  expense  and  the 
dangers  to  students.  Several  other  letters  were  written 
on  the  same  side,  but  only  one  or  two  in  favor  of  a  city. 

When  "  Nimmo "  and  those  siding  with  him  had 
written  until  they  thought  the  question  settled,  "  X.  Y." 
replied  to  them  in  bulk,  maintaining  his  views  and  forti- 
fying them  by  instancing  the  locations  of  great  Educa- 
tional Institutions  in  many  countries.  The  upshot  for 
the  time  was  a  generous  offer  by  the  people  of  Cobourg 
to  enlarge  the  grounds  and  build  a  Science  Hall,  so  keep- 
ing the  college  in  their  town.  But  time  works  changes. 
Victoria  College,  though  too  long  delayed,  did  come  to 
Toronto,  and  the  predictions  of  "  X.  Y.,"  then  a  young 
preacher  on  probation,  who  had  studied  in  Toronto, 
were  fulfilled.  "  Nimmo  "  was  Mathematical  Professor 
in  Victoria  College,  until,  weary  of  the  monotony  of  a 
"  small  town,"  he  sought  for  variety  and  vivacity  in  city 
life. 

Towards  a  Ladies'  College  the  Methodist  people  of 
London  offered  a  site  of  several  acres  in  the  centre  of 
the  city  and  a  substantial  sum  towards  the  buildings; 

108 


FROM   SEA   TO   SEA 

but  their  generous  offer  was  too  early  to  be  appreciated 
at  its  value,  and  no  action  was  taken. 

The  Rev,  Thomas  Hurlburt  had  made  a  beginning  at 
Rossville : 

'  My  hands,  head  and  heart  are  full — so  many  interests 
to  attend  to.  Printing  office  in  disorder;  have  examined 
10,000  syllabic  characters  and  struck  off  the  Ten  Com- 
mandments. I  send  you  a  copy.  I  can  now  print 
Chippewa,  Cree  and  English — all  the  books  we  want, 
when  I  get  paper  and  ink.' 

The  contributions  at  the  Richmond  Street  missionary 
meeting,  Toronto,  amounted  to  £80.  One  gentleman 
offered  £25  towards  sending  more  men  to  the  Islorth- 
West.  The  deputation  failed  to  appear  at  the  CoUing- 
wood  meeting,  'but,'  said  the  Rev.  Joel  Briggs,  'the 
time  is  not  far  distant  when  Collingwood  will  become 
self-supporting  and  one  of  our  best  circuits.'  The  earn- 
est efforts  of  the  ladies  secured  £20,  and  offerings  for 
a  new  church  rose  to  £220. 

Many  circuits  report  revivals — Cooksville,  Brantford, 
Brighton,  Morris,  Belmont,  Nanticoke,  Cobourg,  Picton, 
etc.,  with  additions  ranging  from  20  to  200. 

New  churches  were  built  at  Millbrook,  Matilda,  Bel- 
mont, Williamsville,  Portsmouth,  Picton,  L'Orignal,  etc. 

Matilda,  March  31st,  1856: 

'During  the  past  winter  I  visited  the  Kemptville, 
Smith's  Falls,  Merrickville,  Winchester,  and  Cornwall 
circuits  and  found  the  missionary  cause  progressing, 
with  a  strong  hold  on  the  sympathies  and  prayers  of  a 
large  portion  of  the  community.  The  deputations,  fear- 
ing neither  snowstorms  nor  the  biting  winds,  are  entitled 
to  gratitude.  Fair-weather  men  would  not  suit  this 
work.  The  new  stone  church  in  Matilda  was  dedicated 
on  the  2nd  inst.,  the  Rev.  Wellington  Jeffers,  of  Mon- 
treal, preaching  morning  and  evening.  A  protracted 
meeting  followed,  in  which  about  140  have  professed 
faith  in  Christ,  and  the  work  is  progressing  with  un- 
abated power.' — James  Gray. 

109 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

'  As  the  Lord  blessed  the  house  of  Obed-Edom,  when 
he  took  the  Ark,  so  when  we  were  denied  more  spa- 
cious places,  a  kind  friend  in  Morpeth  opened  his  house. 
That  father  and  mother  had  the  happiness  of  hearing 
their  six  adult  children  profess  faith  in  Christ  and  meet- 
ing them  at  the  Lord's  Supper.' — W.  Dignam, 

The  Rev.  John  A.  Dowler,  of  Morris  Mission,  says: 
'  I  never  saw  greater  liberality,  circumstances  consid- 
ered; mothers  putting  pieces  of  silver  into  the  hands  of 
their  children,  one  of  them  only  six  months  old,  and 
holding  the  little  hand  over  the  plate — an  impressive 
sermon.  One  of  the  collectors,  before  going  out,  prayed 
God  to  give  her  one  pound  a  day.  She  was  sorry  she 
had  not  asked  for  more,  as  during  the  week  she  and  her 
companion  secured  six  pounds.  A  small  mission  house 
has  been  raised.     More  laborers  are  required.' 

Wallace  Mission — Rev.  James  M.  Clarke  writes: 

'  About  four  years  ago  this  entire  mission  was  a  wil- 
derness. As  settlers  moved  in  they  were  visited  by 
preachers  from  the  Peel  Mission.  The  two  or  three 
preaching  places  have  increased  to  ten,  with  eight 
classes  and  over  a  hundred  members,  who  show  a  wil- 
lingness to  support  the  cause.  I  think  we  shall  raise  as 
much  missionary  money  per  member  as  some  of  the 
wealthy  circuits.  Our  new  church  was  dedicated  on 
the  1 6th  ult.  by  Rev.  Lewis  Warner.' 

'  A  few  years  ago  the  Belmont  circuit  was  only  the 
extreme  end  of  the  London  Circuit.  In  1853,  with  tv/o 
or  three  appointments  and  as  many  classes,  it  was  made 
a  separate  circuit  and  was  somewhat  enlarged  by  Rev. 
E.  L.  Koyle.  During  the  last  eighteen  months  under  the 
laborious  and  much  loved  Rev.  Wm.  Savage,  it  has 
grown  to  nineteen  preaching  places  and  nearly  as  many 
classes.  Whole  families  have  been  brought  to  God  and 
the  work  is  still  progressing.  Sabbath  Schools  have 
been  opened,  two  churches  built,  five  more  and  a  parson- 
age are  in  course  of  erection.  It  is  only  a  few  years 
since  the  hardy  settlers  entered  these  forests.  Truly 
the  Lord  hath  made  the  wilderness  to  blossom.* 

On  Nanticoke  Mission  about  thirty  new  members 
were  received :  in  Cobourg  over  a  hundred. 

1 10 


FROM   SEA   TO   SEA 

Mr.  John  Boomer  was  born  in  Nova  Scotia  in  1780, 
came  to  Upper  Canada  and  settled  in  Esquesing  in  1819 ; 
in  1821  he  married  Miss  Sarah  Ann  Crawford,  of  York, 
one  of  eight  sisters  recently  from  Ireland.  Their  house 
was  opened  for  preaching  in  connection  with  the  George- 
town Mission,  and  became  the  Hornby  appointment.  In 
1855  the  family  removed  to  Wellesley,  where,  after  a 
long  and  faithful  life,  Mr.  Boomer  died  in  April.  1856. 
'eaving  a  numerous  and  highly-respected  family. 


St.  James    Methouist  Church,,  Montreal, 


III 


CHAPTER  X. 

1856. 

FIELDS  WHITENING  TO  HARVEST. 

Conference,  Brockville — Deaths — Missions — London — -Mt.  Elgin 
Sarnia — Punshon — Montreal — Caughey — Desj  ardins  Canal- — 
Ferrier — Toronto — Clinton — Mitchell —  Kincardine  —  Howick 
— Beauharnois — Edmonton. 

The  Conference  of  1856  was  held  in  Brockville,  com- 
TiCncing  on  the  4th  of  June. 

President — Rev.  Enoch  Wood. 

Secretary — Rev.  Jas.  Elliott. 

Into  full  connection— -'Wm.  Sutton,  Wm.  D.  Brown, 
Orrin  H.  Ellsworth,  John  Wakefield,  Joseph  E.  Sander- 
son, B.A. ;  Thomas  D.  Pearson,  Samuel  D.  Mandsley, 
James  M.  Clarke,  Joseph  L.  Forsyth,  Andrew  Edwards, 
Edwin  Peake,  Thomas  Charbonell.  Robert  Brown, 
James  Preston,  Francis  Hunt,  Richard  L.  Tucker. 

The  Rev.  George  C.  Whitlock  was  received  from  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  U.  S.,  and  appointed  to  a 
Professorship  in  Victoria  College. 

Forty  voung  m6n  were  received  on  trial. 

DiVrf— William   Case,  Oct.   19th,   1855,  aged    75    years. 

Francis  Chapman,  Nov.  19,  1855,  aged  36  years. 

Thomas  Peacock,  Jan.  12th,  1856,  aged  38  years. 

David  Youmans,  Feb.  14th,  1856,  aged  84  years. 

Book  Stczvard — Rev.  George  R.  Sanderson. 

Editor — Rev.  James  Spencer. 

Members,  39,015;  increase,  1,120. 

£      s.    d. 

Contingent  Fund    ^1.572  15     2 

Superannuation  Fund    853     i     8 

Chapel  Relief  Fund    150  10     3 

The  Revs.  John  Hannah.  D.D.,  and  Frederick  J. 
Jobson,  Delegates  from  the  British  Conference,  and  the 

112 


1.  Aikeiis.  Hon.  .1.  ('. 
4.  Whitlock,  Rev.  Jesse 
7.  Savage,  Rev.  David 


■>.   l;ovle,  Robt.,  D.I). 
0.  Mrs.  Jesse  Whitlock 
8.  Walker,  Mr.  Riberti 


y.  Gi-ittin,  W.  S.,  D.l). 
6.  Abbs,  Rev.  George 
9.  Loansbiirv,  Rev.  Edward 


FIELDS   WHITENING   TO   HARVEST 

Rev.  Robinson  Scott,  of  the  Irish  Conference,  were  in- 
troduced. The  sermons  and  addresses  of  these  visitors 
were  very  highly  appreciated.  The  Rev.  Robinson 
Scott  preached  the  ordination  sermon. 

The  reappointment  of  Rev.  Enoch  Wood  as  President 
and  the  Rev.  John  Ryerson  as  Co-Delegate  was  re- 
quested. 

The  Rev.  Anson  Green,  D.D.,  was  appointed  Delegate 
to  the  British  Conference,  and  the  Revs.  W.- Ryerson, 
S  D.  Rice,  and  G.  R.  Sanderson  to  the  Eastern  Confer- 
ence. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Friday  morning. 

The  Rev.  Peter  Jones,  our  pioneer  Indian  missionary, 
died  on  the  29th  of  June,  1856,  in  his  fifty-fourth  year. 
He  was  converted  at  a  camp-meeting  in  Ancaster  in 
1823,  at  the  age  of  twenty-one.  In  1825  he  was  received 
as  a  probationer  for  the  ministry,  and  proved  a  faithful 
and  successful  missionary. 

Camp-meetings  were  held  during  the  early  summer 
months  on  the  Cookstown,  Blenheim,  Belmont,  Amelias- 
burg,  Owen  Sound,  London,  Millbrook,  Guelph,  Yonge 
Street,  and  other  circuits.  A  brief  sketch  of  the  Ernes- 
town  camp-meeting  may  be  taken  as  a  sample  of  many: 

'  LTnder  the  superintendence  of  the  Rev.  Ch.  Fish, 
early  and  efficient  preparations  were  made.  About  60 
tents  were  built  and  a  large  canvas  tent  obtained  for 
special  uses.  The  services  were  begun  on  the  19th  of 
June,  1856,  and  a  very  gracious  influence  pervaded  the 
congregation  from  the  first.  On  Sunday  morning  eight 
class-meetings  were  held  in  the  tents.  Immense  multi- 
tudes attended  the  public  services  durins:  the  day,,  and 
the  prayer-meetings  followine  the  preaching,  were  sea- 
sons of  great  power.  On  Monday  evening  a  wonderful 
influence  rested  upon  the  people,  their  restrained  emo- 
tions broke  forth  and  anxious  ones  fell  upon  their  knees 
wherever  they  were.  Soon  the  shout  of  victory  was 
heard  in  Charles  Wesley's  hymn  of  triumph — 

8  "3  .      , 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

"  My  God  is  reconciled, 

His  pardoning  voice  I  hear ; 
He  owns  me  for  His  child, 

I  can  no  longer  fear ; 
With  confidence  I  now  draw  nigh, 
And,  Father,   Abba,   Father,   cry." 

'  The  work  of  soul-savinsf  advanced  blessedly  throug'h 
all  the  services.  On  the  eighth  day  a  love-feast  was  held 
and  seventy-five  persons  gave  their  testimony.  The 
Lord's  Supper  was  administered  to  458.  Through  that 
day  and  evening  the  services  were  continued,  and  in 
the  praver-meeting  next  morning  some  souls  were  set 
free.  This  is  the  fourth  meeting  on  this  ground  in 
successive  years  and  the  results  in  each  have  been  glori- 
ous.'— Mitchell  Neville. 

'  At  the  Peel  camp-meeting  so  glorious  were  the  mani- 
festations of  divine  power  that  the  servants  of  God  were 
constrained  to  "  stand  still  and  see  the  salvation  of 
God  " — the  Spirit  having  free  course,  and  in  this  man- 
ner the  prayer-meeting  continued  until  the  break  of 
day.' 

A  lay  brother  on  the  Mono  Circuit  was  told  of  a 
neighborhood  where  once  the  candle  of  the  Lord  burned 
brightly,  but  now  the  people  sat  in  darkness.  He  visited 
the  people,  began  a  weekly  prayer-meeting,  and  soon 
witnessed  signs  of  revival.  The  ministers  were  notified, 
and  in  two  weeks  forty  or  fifty  professed  conversion. 
In  a  few  months  a  church  was  built. 

Rufus  Adams  was  born  in  New  England  in  1783  and 
died  in  Acton,  May  6th,  1856,  in  his  seventy-third  year. 
When  twenty-eight  years  of  age  he  united  with  the 
Methodist  Church.  He  was  a  diligent  student  of  the 
Scriptures,  and  proved  the  sincerity  of  his  faith  by  a 
well-ordered  life  and  godly  conversation. 

Elizabeth,  daughter  of  Mr.  Henry  Leadley  and  wife 
of  Mr.  Richard  Murphy.  Toronto,  died  on  the  I5;th  of 
August,  1856,  at  the  age  of  twenty-one  years.  When 
fifteen  she  sought  and  found  the  peace  of  a  living  faith, 
and  adorned  her  profession. 

114 


FIELDS   WHITENING  TO   HARVEST 

"  Shall  I  ask  thee  back,  my  child  ? 
Back — and  leave  thy  spirit's  brightness ! 
Back — and  leave  thy  robes  of  whiteness ! 
Ah,  nay !     I'll  wait  Heaven's  high  decree 
That  brings  my  spirit  home  to  thee." — Father. 

Francois  Pepin,  French  missionary,  writes  from  Que- 
bec, November  15th,  1856: 

'  I  arrived  in  this  city  a  year  ago ;  visited  my  god- 
father and  was  well  received.  I  gave  him  a  New  Testa- 
ment. He  read  it  and  said  he  loved  it.  In  distributing 
some  Bibles,  I  found  a  poor  family,  nine  children,  and 
the  father  out  of  work.  From  some  friends  I  obtained 
clothes  and  bedding,  and  gave  them  a  Bible.  Several 
are  reading  the  Bibles  and  other  books.  I  have  a  sing- 
ing class  and  Sunday  School.  Some  of  the  boys  and 
girls  have  been  beaten  for  reading  the  New  Testament. 
The  priest  said  it  was  a  bad  book  and  must  be  burned.' 

The  Hungerford  Mission : 

'Through  the  efforts  of  Billa  Flint,  Esq.,  the  Govern- 
ment opening  the  Addington  Road  and  our  mission- 
aries carrying  the  Gospel  to  the  new  settlers,  the  wil- 
derness is  beginning  to  blossom.  Br.  Baxter  has  a  new- 
parsonage  built  in  the  centre  of  the  mission  and  there 
is  to  be  a  church  in  Tweed.' 

Over  in. 000  were  given  towards  opening  missions  in 

the  North-West. 

Mr.  Lindsay  Crawford  came  from  Ireland  in  1819, 
and  settled  in  Trafalgar,  afterwards  removing  to  Ham- 
ilton. From  the  age  of  twenty-one  he  was  a  faithful 
member  of  the  IMethodist  Church,  as  steward,  trustee, 
and  leader,  until  his  death,  November  22nd,  1856,  at  the 
age  of  forty-five. 

The  Toronto  Wesleyan  Dorcas  Society  expended  over 
£40  during  1856. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Woolsey's  work  includes  Rocky 
Mountain  House,  Fort  Assiniboine,  and  Lesser  Slave 
Lake.  The  Blackfeet  tribe  had  made  a  treaty  with  the 
Crees,  and  seemed  well  disposed  towards  the  mission- 
aries. 

"5 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

New  churches  have  been  built  on  the  Sidney,  Eliza- 
bethville,  Mt.  Bridges,  Aylmer,  C.W.,  Prescott,  Strat- 
ford, Bradford,  Toronto,  Mono,  Reach,  Churchville, 
Knowlton,  and  other  circuits. 

About  1838  a  new  church  was  built  in  Oakville,  but 
was  so  heavily  in  debt  that  it  was  eventually  sold,  and 
Methodist  interests  were  low.  In  1848  the  new  Tem- 
perance Hall  was  rented  and  prepared  for  worship. 
Class-meetings,  prayer-meetings,  and  special  services 
were  held,  adding  many  to  the  Church.  A  new  church 
was  proposed  and  built  in  1853.  A  recent  revival  and 
the  reception  of  about  a  hundred  new  members  render 
an  enlargement  of  the  church  necessary. 

'  The  missionary  income  in  the  London  District  is 
likely  to  be  in  advance.  On  the  London  Circuit  our 
people  are  talking  of  $1,000  as  their  offering.  The  timf^s 
are  said  to  be  strangely  hard  and  money  very  tight,  but 
duty  calls  and  the  claims  must  be  met.  We  are  project- 
ing three  new  churches,  to  cost  seven  or  eight  thousand 
dollars.' — John  A.  Williams. 

The  Rev.  W.  Dignam  on  a  missionary  tour: 
'  After  a  drive  of  twenty-five  miles  through  biting 
cold  we  reached  Mount  Elgin  Institute,  and  the  sound 
of  the  supper  bell  was  welcome  music.  I  asked  about 
the  excellent  plate  of  buckwheat  pancakes,  and  tlie 
Superintendent  replied :  "  My  boys  and  I  sowed  four 
acres  and  raised  over  a  hundred  bushels.  All  you  see. 
except  the  coffee,  is,  I  believe,  the  produce  of  our  farm." 
A  chapter  was  read  and  the  singing  was  positively 
charming,  the  several  parts  carried  without  the  slightest 
hesitation.  In  the  ladies'  workshop  you  may  see  cutting. 
fitting  and  sewing,  economy  in  all  branches ;  and  some 
of  these  young  seamstresses  can  make  their  own  gar- 
ments. In  the  cellar  we  saw  a  great  stock  of  flour,  a 
barrel  of  beef,  pyramids  of  white,  firm  bacon,  great 
cakes  of  tallow,  butter-crocks,  cheese,  vegetables,  honey 
— all  from  their  farm.  We  went  upstairs,  to  the  post 
office,  the  library,  the  wash-room,  with  its  basins  a-.id 
towels,  where  Indians  learn  to  wash  and  be  clean.' 

116 


FIELDS   WHITENING  TO   HARVEST 

A  Vermont  visitor's  call  at  the  Indian  settlement,  Port 
Sarnia : 

'  It  surprised  and  interested  me  to  learn  that  the  whole 
tribe  was  Christian,  and  many  actually  converted.  Call- 
ing at  the  Chief's  house,  his  wife  opened  the  door  and 
with  an  easy  grace  pointed  me  to  the  neatly  furnished 
parlor.  Around  the  room  were  likenesses  of  the  Gover- 
nor, Wesley,  Peter  Jones,  Peter  Jacobs,  etc.  Presently 
the  Chief  entered  with  his  son  and  daughter.  The  son 
acted  as  interpreter.  The  daughter  was  the  only  squaw 
I  had  seen  that  came  up  to  the  idea  I  had  formed  of 
Indian  female  loveliness.  She  took  a  likeness  from  her 
bosom  and  gave  such  a  sweet,  flute-like  laugh  as  her* 
brother  told  me  who  it  was.  They  all  enjoyed  the 
pleasantry  and  asked  me  to  come  again.' 

A  Methodist  Episcopal  church  was  built  in  Jersey- 
ville,  and  on  the  day  of  dedication  services  in  the  Wes- 
leyan  Church  were  withdrawn.  The  best  of  feeling  was 
manifested  and  the  courtesy  duly  acknowledged. 

A  Sunday  school  convention  was  held  in  Kingston, 
February,  1857;  about  300  delegates  attended,  some 
from  the  United  States.  During  the  day  the  sessions 
were  held  in  the  Methodist  Church  and  in  the  evening 
in  the  City  Hall. 

Exeter  Hall,  London: 

'  An  extraordinary  scene  was  witnessed  on  Tuesday 
night,  when  the  Rev.  W.  AI.  Punshon  lectured  on  "  John 
Bunyan"  to  the  Y.  M.  Ch.  Association.  At  the  close 
of  his  marvellous  oration,  the  whole  mass  rose  to  their 
feet  as  by  one  impulse ;  cheering  and  waving  of  hand- 
kerchiefs continued  in  repeated  bursts  of  enthusiasm/ 

On  the  25th  of  February,  1857,  the  three  Methodist 
congregations  of  Montreal  held  a  meeting  in  the  lecture 
room  of  Great  St.  James  Church  to  consider  the 
removal  of  their  debt  of '£12,000.  The  trustees  offered 
to  give  £4,000  if  a  similar  amount  were  raised  by  the 
congregations.  The  ofifer  was  accepted,  and  a  total  of 
£10,000  subscribed. 

117 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  Rev.  E.  B.  Harper's  testimony: 

'  I  have  labored  with  Mr.  Caughey  through  a  whole 
season,  have  remained  on  the  field  after  he  had  gone, 
have  succeeded  him  where  he  labored  with  others  and 
esteem  him(  as  an  *'  able  minister  of  the  New  Testa- 
ment " ;  "  a  man  of  clean  hands  and  a  pure  heart,"  "  a 
good  man,  full  of  faith  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,"  by 
whom  "  much  people  "  have  been  added  to  the  Lord.' 

A  correspondent  is  anxious  for  English  news :  '  We 
look  to  England,  not  only  as  the  birthplace  of  Metho- 
dism, but  as  the  centre  of  the  world's  enlightenment 
and  elevation — "the  Judea  of  modern  Christendom  "-- 
and  every  scrap  of  information  respecting  her  political 
and  evangelical  doings  ought,  it  seems  to  us,  to  be 
highly  interesting  to  the  whole  Christian  world ;  and  the 
movements  of  Methodism  particularly  so  to  Canadian 
Wesleyans  in  their  present  relation  to  the  parent  body.' 

The  Rev.  William  Brown  was  born  in  Duchess 
County,  New  York,  came  to  Canada  in  1795,  entered  the 
Methodist  ministry  in  1815,  and  died  in  Wolford,  March 
5th,  1857,  aged  eighty-seven  years. 

Some  of  the  Methodist  people  of  Toronto  were 
aboard  the  ill-fated  train,  March  12th,  1857,  which 
plunged  into  the  Desjardin  Canal.  About  sixty  persons 
lost  their  lives  and  twenty-five  were  seriously  injured. 

The  Hon.  James  Ferrier,  after  a  busy  day  in  Parlia- 
ment, hurried  up  to  the  Yorkville  missionary  meeting 
and  said  some  good  things :  '  In  this  day  we  hear  much 
about  platforms,  new  platforms,  or  new  planks  in  old 
ones,  but  the  platform  on  which  the  Missionary  Society 
rests  is  the  "  Rock  of  Ages."  Canada  is  progressing, 
and  we  must  keep  pace  with  that  prosperity.  The 
Hudson's  Bay  Territory  was  not  thought  of  politically 
until  made  known  by  the  missionaries.  The  Company 
would  keep  us  in  the  dark,  but  we  intend  to  colonize 
that  country.    Our  missionaries  will  be  there  to  welcome 

118 


FIELDS   WHITENING  TO   HARVEST 

and  to  cheer  the  new  comers.'  Mr.  Ferrier  took  his 
seat,  but  was  recalled  to  tell  about  Lower  Canada.  He 
spoke  of  the  French  people,  the  labors  of  Mons.  Char- 
bounell  and  others,  the  French  Institutes  and  openings 
for  Protestants. 

Of  the  Toronto  District  the  Rev.  Richard  Jones  writes, 
March  21st,  1857: 

'  A  general  advance  in  the  District ;  no  falling  off 
anticipated  because  of  the  hard  times;  six  new  churclies 
erected  during  the  year  and  about  as  many  more  in 
progress;  revivals  prevailing  in  nearly  all  the  circuits 
and  missions.' 

At  Zion  Church,  Pilkington,  Wesleyans  and  Primi- 
tives labored  harmoniously  together  in  a  fruitful  revival, 
and  both  branches  of  the  Church  reaped  good  results. 
The  Ladies'  Aid  of  Clinton  presented  the  trustees  with 
iioo  towards  a  new  church.  This  was  an  indication  of 
better  things  for  this  new  village  in  the  "  Queen's 
Bush,"  to  which  Mr.  William  Harland  came  in  1854. 
He  had  been  converted  in  the  great  revival  at  Harri- 
son's, Brampton  Circuit,  in  1850,  where  he  was  made  a 
Sunday  school  teacher  and  a  leader.  Coming  with  his 
family  to  Clinton  and  finding  no  church,  he  prepared  a 
place  for  preaching,  and  invited  the  people.  The  fire 
was  kindled,  and  has  been  kept  burning.  Mr.  Harland 
was  the  first  Sunday  school  superintendent,  and  a  leader 
until  his  death. 

'  In  Mitchell,  where  about  three  years  ago  we  had  not 
a  class,  there  is  now  a  large  and  respectable  society, 
with  a  house  of  worship  far  in  advance  of  some  in  more 
pretentious  towns.  When  Mr.  Richard  Babb  came  to 
Mitchell  in  1855,  it  was  the  head  of  Mitchell  Mission, 
embracing  several  townships  around,  since  become  separ- 
ate circuits  —  Fullarton,  Staffa,  Moncton,  etc.  Lucius 
Adams,  I.  B.  Aylesworth,  M.D.,  and  Andrew  Smith 
were  some  of  the  earliest  ministers. 

'  In  Stratford  the  new  church  and  other  unmistakable 
119 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

tokens,  with  the  divine  blessing,  indicate  a  noble  future 
for  Methodism  in  that  town.' 

The  Rev.  Andrew  Edwards  writes  from  Kincardine 
Mission,  April  8th,  1857: 

'  We  are  beautifully  situated  on  the  eastern  shore  of 
Lake  Huron,  30  miles  north  of  Goderich  and  about  the 
same  distance  south  of  Southampton,  and  expecting 
soon  to  become  the  capital  of  Bruce.  Our  population  is 
about  1,000.  Two  steamers  visit  our  harbor,  in  which 
piers,  etc.,  are  being  built.  The  Townships  of  Kincar- 
dine, Bruce  and  Huron,  around  us,  are  fertile  and  well 
settled.  Farmers  from  older  parts  of  the  province  are 
buying  out  the  first  settlers,  who  are  moving  further 
back.  Methodism  has  had  but  a  precarious  existence  in 
this  county,  one  man  having  been  sent  to  wander  over 
six  or  eight  townships.  Last  year  an  additional  mis- 
sionary was  sent.  There  are  some  good  Methodists  in 
Bruce  Township,  but  we  cannot  take  up  a  single  Sabbath 
appointment.  Malta  and  Inverhuron  are  growing  vil- 
lages, with  good  harbors.  Our  enterprising  friend,  F. 
Watkins,  Esq.,  of  Hamilton,  has  invested  extensivelv 
here,  and  will  send  a  colony.  Our  church  dedication 
services,  conducted  by  Rev.  J.  S.  Evans,  and  tea-meeting 
were  all  we  could  wish.     More  laborers  are  required.' 

Howick  Mission,  April  15th,  1857: 

'  At  the  formation  of  this  mission,  last  district  meet- 
ing, we  had  two  classes  with  about  40  members.  We 
have  now  six  classes,  about  a  hundred  members,  and  a 
Quarterly  Board  of  ten.  An  acre  of  land  has  been  secured 
in  Howick  and  another  in  Turnberry,  on  which  churches 
are  being  erected.  My  expenses — £30 — are  paid,  and  we 
expect  to  return  £20  to  the  missionary  'fund.  Another 
laborer  would  be  required  to  fill  the  openings  and  satisfy 
the  people.' — J.  A.  Dowler. 

The  Brighton  Circuit,  owing  to  the  number  of  vil- 
lages and  increase  of  rural  appointments,  calls  for  an 
increase  of  ministers  and  a  division  of  the  circuit. 

A  Hemmingford  correspondent  regrets  the  con- 
stant removal  of  Protestant  families — fifty  from  a  single 
mission  in  a  few  years — their  farms  purchased  by  Roman 

120 


FIELDS   WHITENING   TO   HARVEST 

Catholics,  making  it  difficult  for  the  Methodist  Church 
to  maintain  its  status,  even  though  we  report  many 
conversions. 

'  The  Beauharnois  Circuit  was  taken  from  the  Hunt- 
ingdon Circuit  at  the  last  Conference.  The  new  stone 
church  in  Dunham  is  free  from  debt.  We  preach  also 
in  four  schoolhouses.  The  ladies  undertook  a  tea-meet- 
ing, and  provided  richly.  The  speeches  were  very  inter- 
esting. In  so  earnest  and  sprightly  a  manner  did  the 
Rev.  J.  E.  Sanderson,  of  Montreal,  uphold  and  vindi- 
cate the  practical  workings  of  Methodism  that  the  whole 
audience  seemed  charmed  and  convinced.  Our  finan- 
cial embarrassment  is  relieved,  congregations  are  in- 
creasing, deep  spiritual  interest  is  felt,  and  there  have 
been  several  conversions.' — William  Hansford. 

'  The  Eaton  Circuit,'  writes  the  Rev.  R.  Wilson,  '  is 
the  extreme  south-east  of  our  Canadian  work,  and  separ- 
ated by  many  miles  of  forest  from  the  State  of  Maine. 
On  our  arrival  we  were  greeted  by  a  gathering  of 
ladies  and  their  husbands,  a  bountiful  table,  and  a  pleas- 
ant social  hour,  ending  in  a  prayer-meeting.  Such  a 
friendly  beginning  opened  the  way  to  united  and  earn- 
est efforts,  followed  by  showers  of  blessing,  about  forty 
conversions,  growing  congregations,  and  good  increase 
in  missionary  contributions.' 

The  Rev.  Henry  Steinhaur  writes  from  Edmonton, 
May  I2th,  1857: 

'  In  entering  upon  this  mission  I  have  had  my  share 
of  obstacles  and  hardships ;  am  carpenter,  mason,  farmer 
and  evangelist,  endeavoring  to  lead  the  people  from 
barbarism.  These  duties,  with  frequent  journeyings, 
have  prevented  me  paying  the  constant  attention  to 
school  and  translations  I  could  wish.  Thirty  or  forty 
boys  are  reading  in  the  Syllabic,  but  we  are  much  in 
need  of  books.  The  door  seems  open  to  the  Crees, 
Assiniboines,  Blackfeet,  Saucees,  Blood  Peagans  and 
some  others,  through  efforts  made  to  establish  peace. 
The  starvation  and  sickness  of  last  winter  have  done 
much  to  mollify  the  hostile  tribes.  A  general  assembly 
is  to  be  held  to  confirm  the  peace.  I  have  a  message 
from  the  Blackfeet,  and  intend  going.     I  expect  to  re- 

I2T 


METHODISM    IN   CANADA 

ceive  letters  left  at  Fort  Pitt  by  the  winter  packet.  I 
am  happy  in  the  work,  and  willing  to  remain,  but  feci 
anxious  about  the  education  of  my  children.' 

New  churches  have  been  opened  at  Cole's^  AicVittie's, 
Kinburn,  Morrisburg,  Georgetown,  Morris  Mission, 
Everton,  Scarboro',  Bowerman's,  etc. 

During  a  revival  a  sweet  little  girl  named  Sarah  went 
home  full  of  what  she  had  seen  and  heard.  Sitting  at 
the  table,  she  asked  her  father  whether  he  ever  prayed. 
"  Your  mother  or  your  Aunt  Sally  put  you  up  to  that," 
he  replied.  "  No,  papa ;  but  the  preacher  said  all  good 
people  pray.  Pa,  do  you  pray?"  "Well,  you  go  your 
way  and  I  will  go  mine."  "  Which  way  are  you  going, 
papa?"    He  began  to  pray. 

THE   OLD   FORSAKEN   HOUSE. 

On  Mr.  Emmanuel  Harrison,  of  the  Brampton  Circuit,  removing 

to  a  new  brick  house,  about  1840. 

BY    REV.    MATTHIAS    HOLTBY. 

It  very  lately  was  my  lot 
To  visit  a  deserted  cot 

Which  oft  had  screened  from  danger 
Not  only  those  who  called  it  "home," 
But  those  who  through  the  wilds  did  roam — 

The  weary,  way-worn  stranger. 

But  now,  alas !  how  changed  the  scene ! 
'Tis   cold,   and   silence   reigns   within — 

The  inmates  have  absconded. 
"And   how   is  this?"   I   wildly   cried. 
Then  the  old  cottage  loudly  sighed, 

And  thus  with  tears  responded : 

My  master  bought  this  lot  of  land. 
And  then  he  raised  me  where  I  stand, 

And  finished  me  at  leisure; 
'Tis  true  I  was  not  very  fine, 
But  none  excelled  me  on  the  Line — 

He  viewed  me  then  with  pleasure. 

To  make  all  safe  he  hung  these  doors ; 
He  laid  these  two  substantial  floors, 

And  reared  this  neat  partition; 

And  afterwards,  to  make  me  fine, 

He  Imed  me  all  around  with  pine, 

Which  mended  my  condition. 

Continued  on  page  140. 

122 


CHAPTER  XL 

1857. 
CANADA  AND  BRITISH  COLUMBIA. 

Conference,  Toronto — Chief — Camp-meetings — Temperance — Gifts 
— Madden  —  French  Canadians  —  Hamilton  —  Matilda — East 
Bolton  —  Conference,  1858,  Montreal — Griffin — Kingston — 
British  Columbia — Missions. 

The  Annual  Conference  opened  in  the  Richmond  St. 
Church,  Toronto,  June  3rd,  1857.  President,  Rev. 
Enoch  Wood ;  Secretary,  Rev.  James  Spencer,  The  Rev. 
Joseph  Stinson,  D.D.,  was  present  as  Representative  of 
the  English  Conference.  He  congratulated  Canadian 
Methodists  on  their  advance  since  he  was  here  fifteen 
years  ago.  In  England  they  are  raising  £100,000  for 
the  relief  of  church  debts.  They  are  building  400  school- 
houses,  also  an  Institution  for  the  training  of  teachers, 
but  these  will  only  half  supply  the  demand.  The  Rev.  Dr. 
Green  gave  an  interesting  account  of  his  visit  to  England. 
The  Rev.  Dr.  Raymond  and  Rev.  Wm.  Hamilton, 
Delegates  from  the  M.  E.  Church,  United  States,  were 
introduced.  The  Revs.  Dr.  Knight  and  Ephraim  Evans 
represented  the  New  Brunswick  Conference. 

Into  full  connection. — Robert  Fowler,  George  Wash- 
ington, Richard  J.  Foreman,  Wm.  Williams,  George 
Cochran,  Thos.  Atkinson,  John  W.  Byers,  Wm.  Tomblin, 
Jay  S.  Youmans,  lohn  Kiernon,  John  Bate,  Samuel  G. 
Phillips,  Wm.  H.  Bakewell. 

Forty-five  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — Peter  Jones,  June  28th,   1856,  aged  54  years; 
Simon  Huntingdon,  Aug.  25th,   1856,  aged  55 

years. 
Benjamin  Nankeville,  Oct.  9th,   1856,  aged  57 

years. 
William  Brown,  March  5th,  1857,  ^g^^  88  years. 
123 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Book  Stezvard — George  R.  Sanderson. 
Editor — James  Spencer. 
Increase  of  members,  over  2,000. 

The  Revs.  Dr.  Stinson  and  Lachlin  Taylor  were 
appointed  Delegates  to  the  English  Conference.  The  rule 
permitting  a  minister  to  remain  five  consecutive  years 
on  a  circuit  was  rescinded.  Only  in  a  very  few  cases 
had  the  permission  been  acted  upon,  and  the  rule  was 
regarded  as  an  undesired  innovation. 

A  memorial  was  erected  in  the  Brantford  Cemetery 
by  the  Ojibway  Indians  in  memory  of  their  departed 
Chief,  Ka-ke-wa-quon-a-by — Peter  Jones. 

During  June,  July  and  August,  camp-meetings  were 
held  on  the  Bradford,  Nanticoke,  Mt.  Bridges,  Brighton, 
Millbrook,  Hastings,  St.  Andrews,  and  other  circuits. 
To  meet  a  very  general  desire  to  hear  about  first  things, 
and  to  fulfil  the  request  of  Mr.  James  A.  Mathewson,  of 
Montreal,  made  shortly  before  his  death,  we  insert  an 
account  of  the  St.  Andrews  camp-meeting,  the  first,  so 
far  as  we  know,  in  the  Province  of  Quebec : 

'  Has  a  camp-meeting  really  been  held  at  St.  Andrews? 
and  was  it  successful?  Yes,  it  has  been  held;  and,  thank 
God,  it  was  gloriously  successful.  The  thought  of  hold- 
ing it,  suggested  by  Mrs.  Phoebe  Palmer,  was  treasured 
and  communicated  until  time  and  place  were  fixed.  It 
was  held  in  a  beautiful  grove,  near  the  railroad  depot 
and  steamboat  landing,  owned  by  John  Harrington,  Esq., 
who  kindly  granted  us  every  privilege.  At  the  request  of 
Rev.  E.  H.  Dewart  a  day  of  fasting  and  prayer  was  con- 
scientiously observed  on  the  circuit.  On  Friday,  July 
loth,  1857,  the  Rev.  John  Carroll,  of  Belleville,  preached 
the  opening  sermon.  That  evening,  and  at  every  suc- 
ceeding prayer  meeting  the  seat  for  anxious  ones  was 
crowded.  After  a  sermon  by  Rev.  John  Gewley,  on 
Sunday,  the  power  of  God  was  displayed,  and  the  interest 
increased  as  the  services  progressed  for  ten  days.  Even 
after  the  formal  closing  meetings  were  continued  several 
evenings.  Some  of  the  ministers  assisting  were  :  George 
Young,  Joseph  E.   Sanderson,  David  Hardie,  and  such 

124 


CANADA   AND    BRITISH   COLUMBIA 

laymen  as  Brothers  Mathewson,  Brandon,  Young,  Hall 
and  others,  of  Montreal,  with  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Palmer,  of 
New  York,  who  were  eminently  useful.  About  150  per- 
sons professed  to  receive  justification  or  sanctification. 
Dr.  and  Mrs.  Palmer  returned  with  our  friends  from 
Montreal,  who  were  the  principal  promoters  of  the  meet- 
ing, and  held  several  services  there.' — Elias  S.  Orr. 

St.  Andrews,  July  28th,  1857. 

In  the  later  summer  months  camp-meetings  were  held 
on  many  other  circuits.  Of  one  at  Oakville,  early  in 
October,  the  Rev.  A.  T.  Green  reported: 

'  About  four  thousand  were  on  the  camp-ground  on 
Sunday  and  twelve  to  fifteen  hundred  on  other  days. 
As  nearly  as  can  be  ascertained  about  two  hundred  were 
converted.  The  meeting  was  attended  by  the  most  extra- 
ordinary manifestations  of  divine  power  I  ever  wit- 
nessed ;  and  the  oldest  ministers  present  declared  they 
never  before  saw  anything  like  it.  An  impulse  has  been 
given  to  the  work  of  God  which  must  result  in  much 
spiritual  good.' 

On  the  Consecon  Circuit,  after  the  camp-meeting,  the 
revival  spirit  reached  almost  every  appointment,  and  over 
one  hundred  were  received  on  trial. 

'  For  the  Spencerville  Camp-meeting  earnest  prayer 
had  been  ascending  for  weeks.  The  Financial  District 
Meetipg  was  convened  at  the  same  time — Sept.  9th — thus 
insuring  assistance.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Palmer  were  also 
present.  About  fifty  tents  had  been  prepared  and  seats 
for  three  thousand.  On  Sunday  the  congregation  was 
estimated  at  nearly  double  that  number.  Over  one  hun- 
dred professed  conversion,  and  the  revival  spread  to 
many  other  places.' 

The  Rev.  Wm.  H.  Harvard,  D.D.,  died  on  the  15th  of 
December,  1857,  after  an  attack  of  paralysis.  He  will 
be  remembered  as  the  trusted  companion  of  Dr.  Coke  on 
his  voyage  to  India.  He  was  President  of  the  Canada 
Conference  in  1837  and  in  1838;  Chairman  of  the  Canada 
Eastern  District  several  years,  stationed  in  Toronto  in 
1845  ^"d  1846,  and  returned  to  England  in  1847.  He 
was  G'j  years  of  age. 

125 


'   "  METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

'  When  we  closed  our  meetings  near  Prince  Albert  it 
was  to  open  in  other  places.  There  cannot  be  less  than 
200  Methodists  now  who  were  not  four  months  ago.  The 
Utica  neighborhood  is  memorable  for  the  first  blessed 
camp-meeting  held  in  this  township.  We  have  36  mem- 
bers in  Port  Perry  and  held  a  tea-meeting  to  organize 
a  Sunday  School.' — ^W.  Savage. 

In  connection  with  the  great  temperance  campaign  in 
Great  Britain,  the  Rev.  Dr.  Arnot,  of  Glasgow,   said : 

'People  need  not  take  the  trouble  to  tell  me  I  am 
excited  on  temperance  questions.  I  know  that  I  am. 
I  would  be  ashamed  before  God  and  man  if  I  were  not. 
There  is  more  in  the  public  houses  of  Glasgow  to  stir 
the  spirit  of  a  minister  than  in  all  St.  Paul  saw  in  Athens. 
I  see  men  and  women  perishing  in  these  pitfalls.  The 
number  of  the  victims  overwhelms  me.  My  brain  is 
burning.  My  heart  is  breaking.  The  church  is  asleep, 
and  I  am  weary  with  holding  in.' 

Mrs.  Madden,  daughter  of  Rev.  David  Breckenridge, 
and  widow  of  the  late  Rev.  Thomas  Madden,  finished 
her  earthly  journey  Dec.  22nd,  1857,  '^^  her  67th  year — 
owned  of  God  and  esteemed  by  His  people. 

The  Government  and  the  banks  are  leading  the  way 
in  a  change  from  pounds,  shillings  and  pence  to  the  more 
convenient   decimal   currency. 

At  the  Sunday  School  tea,  Montreal  East,  Feb.,  1858, 
a  recitation  by  Master  John  W.  Little,  "The  Children's 
Welcome  to  Their  Friends,"  was  given  with  pleasing 
effect  and  bright  prophecies  for  the  seven-year-old 
speaker.  Prizes  were  awarded  to  several  members  of 
the  "  Juvenile  Saturday  Scripture  Class,"  taught  by  the 
pastor. 

A  Missionary  Tea  was  given  in  the  lecture-room 
of  Great  St.  James'  St.  Church,  Montreal,  in  behalf  of 
French-Canadian  missions,  which,  with  the  addresses, 
gave  promise  of  more  energetic  effort  in  this  too-long- 
neglected  field. 


CANADA   AND   BRITISH   COLUMBIA 

The  Rev.  Rufus  A.  Flanders,  sending  an  account  of 
the  opening  of  a  new  church  on  the  East  Road,  Febru- 
ary, 1858,  and  other  local  interests,  proceeds : 

'  I  regret  that  the  position  and  successes  of  Methodism 
in  Eastern  Canada  are  not  better  understood  in  the  West. 
Our  societies  have  been  making  large  contributions  to 
the  strength  and  influence  of  the  Church  in  the  Western 
Province  for  which  they  are  not  generally  credited.  I 
am  convinced,  however,  that  our  happy  union  is,  in  the 
good  providence  of  God.  a  pledge  of  much  greater  suc- 
cess in  this  Province,  amid  the  institutions  of  the  Papacy. 
Some  efficient  means  must  be  employed  to  bring  before 
the  churches  of  Canada  the  urgency  and  feasibility  of 
missions  for  the  evangelization  of  our  French-Canadian 
fellow-subjects.  Let  this  be  done,  and  what  some  con- 
sider the  impregnable  system  of  Popery  will  be  proved 
powerless  before  the  truth  and  spirit  of  God.' 

An  old-time  tea  meeting  was  held  in  Newburgh,  Feb. 
25th,  1858.  The  admission  fee  was  50  cents,  but  every 
seat  was  occupied.  Several  sleigh  loads  of  singers  and 
speakers  drove  out  from  Kingston.  After  a  sumptuous 
tea,  entrancing  music  and  stirring  addresses,  Father 
Rook  arose  and  towards  finishing  their  church  ofifered 
$50  and  fifty  acres  of  land.  "Noble !"  was  echoed 
through  the  house.  Presently  Mr.  A.  Caton  offered  $40, 
if  a  certain  Scotch  friend  would  give  the  same. 
"Agreed!"  said  Mr.  Nimmo,  "and  I  will  make  it  $140,  if 
Mr.  Caton  will  make  his  $80."  "I  will,"  said  Mr.  Caton, 
and  other  subscriptions  followed  quickly.  Rising  again, 
Mr.  Nimmo  said :  "If  the  congregation  will  raise  $160 
more,  I  will  give  $400  towards  the  completion  of  the 
church."  This  was  soon  done,  making  a  total  of  $1,000 — 
and  the  good  Scotch  friend  was  not  a  member  of  this 
church,  but  in  this  way  manifested  his  brotherly  love. 

Hamilton,  March  i6th,  1858 :  '  For  the  Oakville  camp- 
meeting,  last  autumn,  several  of  our  people  joined  in 
preparing  a  Hamilton  tent.  That  meeting  became  a 
Bethel,  and  we  shared  largely  in  the  blessings.     Dr.  and 

127 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Mrs.  Palmer,  on  our  invitation,  arrived  here  on  a  Thurs- 
day evening,  and  v^^e  gathered  a  company  to  meet  them 
in  McNab  St.  Church.  Prayer  and  fellowship  followed. 
The  efifect  was  immediate.  Night  after  night,  scores 
presented  themselves  for  prayer,  and  the  progress  was 
rapid.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Palmer  remained  a  fortnight,  and 
over  six  hundred  names  were  entered  on  the  register.  In 
power  and  extent  the  work  surpasses  anything  I  have 
seen.  We  have  appointed  many  new  leaders  and  nearly 
doubled  our  classes.' — E.  B.  Harper. 

In  the  North  St.  Church,  London,  noonday  prayer- 
meetings  were  held  daily,  with  deepening  interest. 

In  the  Wesleyan  Church,  Quebec,  meetings  were  held 
at  mid-day  and  in  the  evenings,  the  revival  progressing 
steadily. 

The  Great  Revival — '  The  wonderful  work  of  God 
continues  with  unabated  power.  All  classes  seem  to  be 
influenced  and  many  incidents  of  thrilling  interest  are 
related.' — Guardian. 

Matilda  and  Edwardsburgh.  April  29th,  1858- 

'  To  the  untiring  labors  of  Rev.  Jas.  Gray,  under  the 
divine  blessing,  is  due  the  great  prosperity  of  this  circuit. 
At  the  camp-meeting  held  in  September,  near  Spencer- 
ville,  the  work  of  revival  received  a  new  impetus ;  and 
though  our  membership  was  but  feebly  represented,  no 
little  benefit  was  received.  An  intense  longing  for  holi- 
ness was  observable,  and  special  meetings  were  begun  and 
have  been  continued  in  several  localities.  Over  one  hun- 
dred have  been  added  to  our  membership  and  a  founda- 
tion laid  for  extensive  work.'     George  M.  Meacham. 

May  4th,  1858,  Alex.  Brock,  Circuit  Steward,  of  East 
Bolton,  C.E.,  writes: 

*  Four  years  ago  the  Methodist  New  Connexion  left 
us,  and  in  answer  to  our  request  the  Canada  Conference 
sent  us  the  Rev.  Joseph  Hugill,  who  labored  for  two 
years  with  great  success.  He  was  succeeded  by  the  Rev. 
Saml.  G.  Phillips.  By  additions  of  new  members  and  im- 
proving   finances    we    are    sreatly    encouraged    and    are 

128 


I 


CANADA   AND    BRITISH   COLUMBIA 

determined    to    promote    the    permanency    of    Wesleyan 
Methodism  on  this  circuit.' 

From  Melbourne,  C.E.,  Rev.  T.  W.  Constable  writes: 
*  The  past  has  been  a  glorious  year ;  nearly  300  persons 
have  been  received  on  trial  on  this  circuit.' 
K    Brantford,  May  12th,  1858: 

^  '  We  commenced  our  meetings  last  November,  and 
after  five  weeks  received  37  on  probation.  In  March  the 
ministers  of  the  town  agreed  to  hold  union  prayer-meet- 
ings. They  were  largely  attended — as  many  as  a 
thousand  some  evenings.  We  have  held  additional  ser- 
vices and  received  about  130  on  trial.' — Isaac  B.  Howard. 
New  churches  have  been  opened  at  Uxbridge,  Albion, 
Wellington  Square,  Newtonbrook,  Zion  —  near  Owen 
Sound — Millbrook,  etc. 

The  Conference  of  1858  was  opened  in  Great  St. 
James  St.  Church,  Montreal,  on  the  2nd  of  June.  The 
Rev.  Enoch  Wood,  after  being  President  seven  years  in 
succession,  introduced  his  successor,  the  Re.v.  Joseph 
Stinson,  D.D.  The  Rev.  John  Borland  was  elected  Secre- 
tary. An  address  from  the  official  members  was  read  by 
the  Hon.  James  Ferrier,  of  which  we  give  extracts : 

'  As  representatives  of  the  Montreal  Centre  Circuit, 
we  bid  you  a  cordial  welcome  to  our  city  and  the  homes 
of  our  people,  assuring  you  of  the  esteem  in  which  you 
are  held  as  Christian  ministers.  For  the  first  time  your 
Conference  meets  in  the  midst  of  a  people  who  do  not 
accept  the  Bible  as  their  only  rule  of  faith  and  practice. 
On  behalf  of  these,  our  French-Canadian  countrymen, 
we  earnestly  plead,  so  little  has  yet  been  done  for  their 
evangelization.  We  express  sincere  satisfaction  with 
your  fidelity  to  the  principles  of  Methodism  and  your 
determination  to  maintain  our  class  meetings  and  the 
itinerancy.  May  God  help  you,  beloved  fathers  and 
brethren,  to  fulfil  your  mission  as  ambassadors  for 
Christ.' — Robert  Campbell,  Steward. 

The  Revs.  Dr.  Green  and  Enoch  Wood  responded.  As 
an  expression  of  appreciation  and  brotherly  love  on  the 
part  of  the  laymen,  confirming  the  recent  Union,  the 
9  129 


METHODISM    IN   CANADA 

effect  upon  the  Conference  was  unmistakable  and  assur- 
ing. 

Into  full  connection — John  W.  Savage,  Wm.  Lund, 
John  S.  Clarke,  Wm.  Hawke,  Wm.  Savage,  James  A. 
Iveson,  George  Jacques,  Wm.  Shannon,  Geo.  McNamara, 
Geo.  T.  Richardson,  Alex.  R.  Campbell,  John  A.  Dowler, 
Edward  Cragg,  Jabez  B.  Keough,  Wm.  Sanderson,  Wm. 
Briden,  Luther  Houghton,  David  A.  Johnston,  James 
Masson,  Peter  German,  William  Scales,  James  Roy, 
Andrew  Armstrong,  Ed.  B.  Ryckman,  B.A.,  Wm.  M,  C. 
Luke,  Joseph  H.  Starr,  Wm.  Stephenson,  John  Doel, 
Amos  E.  Russ,  John  V.  Wilson. 

Thirty-nine  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — Benjamin  Slight,  A.M.,  Jan.   i6th,   1858,  aged 
59  years. 
James  Morgan,  Feb.  4th,  1858,  aged  28  years. 
James   M.   Clarke,   April    i6th,    1858,   aged   28 
years. 
Number  of  members,  49,023  ;  increase,  7,096. 

The  Conference  Love-feast  began  at  8  o'clock  Sunday 
morning.  The  ordination  sermon  was  preached  by  the 
President.  The  reception  of  the  young  men  on  Friday 
evening,  the  ordination  and  other  services  of  Sunday,  and 
the  public  evening  meetings  were  new  to  Montreal  and 
were  richly  enjoyed  by  the  Methodist  people.  On  Tues- 
day evening  the  ladies  invited  the  Conference  to  a  tea 
in  the  lecture-room,  after  which  the  audience  returned 
to  the  church,  where  an  address  and  testimonial  were 
presented  to  the  Rev.  Enoch  Wood.  The  address,  signed 
by  Silas  Huntingdon  and  about  sixty  other  young  men, 
was  read  by  J.  E.  Sanderson.  A  beautiful  Bible  bore 
the  following  inscription : 

"  Presented  to  the 

Reverend  Enoch  Wood, 

on  retiring  from  the  office  of  President  of 

The  Canada  Wesleyan  Conference, 

By  and  on  behalf  of  the  ministers  ordained  by  him  during 
the   seven  years   of  his    Presidency,   in   token   of   their 

130 


CANADA   AND   BRITISH   COLUMBIA 

affectionate  regard  and  high  appreciation  of  his  services 
during  the  term  of  his  administration." 

Some  months  before,  a  gold  watch  had  been  offered 
for  the  best  essay  on  "  The  Inconsistencies  of  the  Use  of 
Tobacco  by  Christian  Ministers  and  People."  The  watch 
was  awarded  to  the  Rev.  Edward  H.  Dewart,  of  St.  An- 
drews, and  presented  on  this  occasion.  The  Hon.  James 
Ferrier  offered  a  gold  watch  or  $50  for  another  essay, 
subject  to  be  chosen,  to  be  competed  for  by  young  min- 
isters of  not  more  than  ten  years'  standing.  A  second 
prize  of  $25  was  offered  by  D.  Torrance,  Esq.,  and  a 
third  of  $15  by  Robt.  Campbell,  Esq.  An  address  from 
the  Primitive  Methodist  Conference,  expressing  sym- 
pathy and  brotherly  love,  was  received  and  replied  to. 

Resolved,  "  That  this  Conference  regards  the  practice 
of  reading  sermons  from  manuscript  in  their  pulpit 
ministrations  as  contrary  to  the  spirit  and  usages  of 
Methodism  and  detrimental  to  the  efficiency  of  the  min- 
istry; and  therefore  directs  that  each  candidate  shall  be 
examined  on  this  point  by  the  District  Meeting." 

In  the  English  Conference  the  reading  of  sermons 
in  the  pulpit  was  most  severely  condemned. 

The  Rev.  William  Arthur  said: 

"  Every  man  who  sets  that  example  in  Methodism  sets 
a  downward  example.  Our  fathers  found  a  reading  age ; 
they  made  it  a  preaching  age.    Let  us  keep  it  up." 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Jackson  said: 

"  I  would  not  for  the  world  practise  the  reading  of 
sermons  in  the  pulpit.  It  must  never  be  the  practice  of 
Methodism." 

The  Editor  and  the  Book  Steward  were  re-elected. 
The  review  of  an  unusually  successful  year  and  careful 
consideration  of  the  many  and  varied  interests  of  the 
Church  occupied  ten  days,  and  the  sessions,  so  full  of 
pleasurable  excitement  to  ministers  and  people,  came  to 
a  close  on  Friday  night.  To  meet  in  Montreal  for  Con- 
ference was  a  new  and  delightful  experience  to  most  of 
the  ministers,  and  the  vote  of  thanks  they  tendered  for 

131 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

the  cheerful  and  generous  hospitality  they  had  received 
was  given  most  heartily. 

The  Rev.  Jabez  Bunting,  D.D.,  died  on  the  i6th  of 
June,  1858,  in  the  80th  year  of  his  age  and  58th  of  his 
ministry. 

New  churches  were  dedicated  in  Clinton,  Bridgenorth, 
Orwell,  Mt.  Pleasant,  Alma,  Ridgetown,  Selby,  New- 
burgh,  Hastings,  Trowbridge,  Orillia,  Orangeville,  St. 
Thomas,  St.  Mary's,  Sherbrooke,  etc. 

During  the  summer,  camp-meetings  were  held  near 
Aurora,  Smithfield,  Delhi,  Copkstown,  Richmond,  New- 
burgh,  Brockville,  Hemmingford,  Sherbrooke  and  many 
other  places. 

Of  the.  Simcoe  meeting,  Rev.  W.  S.  Griffin  writes, 
Sept.  1st,  1858: 

'  Every  service  from  first  to  last  was  attended  with 
the  divine  blessing.  To  the  mere  spectator.  Sabbath  was 
the  high  day — such  an  immense  concourse  of  people,  so 
respectable,  so  orderly ;  but  the  Wednesday  following 
was  the  high  day  to  the  children  of  God.  Such  a  love- 
feast  the  eldest  and  the  best  among  us  never  saw.  It  was 
easier  to  speak  than  to  be  silent.  There  were  far  more 
witnesses  for  Christ  than  could  be  heard.  The  place  was 
holy  ground ;  it  is  holy  ground  still.  Fifty  or  sixty  pro- 
fessed the  blessing  of  perfect  love,  and  nearly  as  many 
pardon.  Where  there  had  been  scarcely  a  witness  to  the 
cleansing  blood  of  Christ,  the  number  seems  great.  In- 
calculable are  the  blessings  received.' 

Many  similar  records  might  be  given.  Later  in  the  sea- 
son other  meetings  were  held  near  Goderich,  Meaford, 
Grand  River,  Woodstock,  Meadowvale,  Belleville,  Perth, 
Ottawa,  etc.,  accompanied  and  followed  by  such  displays 
of  saving  power  as  can  never  be  forgotten. 

The  Picton  Camp-meeting: 

'  Will  be  called  the  "  Long  Camp-meeting,"  lasting 
twelve  days.  On  some  days  the  rain  came  down  in 
torrents,  but  the  congregations  were  good,  nearly  5,000 
each  Sabbath.     The  discourses  were  sound,  simple,  earn- 

132 


CANADA   AND    BRITISH   COLUMBIA 

est  and  effective.  Some  exhortations  of  lay  brethren 
equally  forcible.  A  young  lady  who  laid  a  wager  that 
she  would  not  be  converted  gladly  paid  her  foolish  bet. 
The  most  sanguine  expectations  did  not  approach  the 
good  accomplished.  Over,  a  hundred  professed  conver- 
sion and  about  half  as  many  sanctification.  Scores  of 
others  could  not  conceal  their  emotions.  One  of  the 
senior  ministers  gave  a  Bible  to  each  of  sixty  converts,  as 
a  memorial.  Great  credit  is  due  the  sisters  for  the  wel- 
come they  gave  to  well-filled  tables.' 
St.  Vincent  Camp-meeting: 

'  From  the  beginning  there  was  no  dry,  insipid  season, 
but  a  steady  hallowing  influence  which  found  its  way  to 
every  heart.  Almost  every  service  was  crowned  with 
success.  Our  oldest  brethren  say  it  was  one  of  the  most 
powerful  seasons  they  ever  realized.  The  best  wine  was 
kept  for  the  last.  On  Tuesday  morning  all  were  before 
the  stand  for  the  farewell  fellowship  meeting,  and  clear- 
flowing  testimonies  were  given — a  blessed  service,  never 
to  be  forgotten.  Then  old  and  young  surrounded  the 
Lord's  table  and  partook  of  the  sacred  emblems.  Wave 
after  wave  of  heavenly  influence  overspread  the  people. 
With  deep  emotion,  in  procession,  we  sang,  "  Oh,  What  a 
Joyful  Meeting  There,"  and,  bidding  each  other  farewell, 
went  everyone  to  his  own  home.' — John  L.  Kerr. 

During  the  autumn  very  gracious  revivals  prevailed  on 
many  circuits,  and  ingatherings  from  scores  to  hundreds 
were  reported.  It  is  not  possible  to  tell  by  figures  the 
actual  good  accomplished,  and  the  numbers  given  may 
be  liable  to  large  discount.  The  same  might  be  said  of 
the  thousands  added  to  the  Church  under  the  labors  of 
the  Apostles.  But  those  who  had  most  to  do  with  those 
early  Canadian  revivals  and  were  life-long  witnesses  of 
the  results,  have  borne  ample  testimony  to  the  Scriptural 
character  of  the  general  average  of  those  conversions,  as 
shown  by  their  fruits.  Repentance,  the  new  birth, 
pardon  and  holiness  were  not  preached  as  forms  or  pro- 
fessions, but  as  blessed  realities,  experienced  and  at- 
tested.   There  was  no  uncertain  sound  in  the  preaching; 

133 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

the  converts  were  living  witnesses,  able  and  willing  to 
tell  what  the  Lord  had  done  for  them,  and  became 
"  living  epistles,  read  and  known  of  all  men."  The  great 
majority  of  the  members  of  the  Methodist  Church  have 
been  born  into  the  kingdom  in  connection  with  revival 
meetings.  We  have  no  controversy  with  those  whose 
conversion  may  have  been  brought  about  without  any 
such  means.  The  conversion  of  Saul  of  Tarsus  on  the 
way  to  Damascus  was  as  genuine  as  those  at  Pentecost. 
"  There  are  diversities  of  operations,  but  it  is  the  same 
God  who  worketh  all  in  all." 

In  the  autumn  of  1858,  very  successful  efforts  were 
made  in  Kingston  for  the  special  benefit  of  the  children 
and  young  people.  About  a  hundred  children  were  en- 
rolled in  a  Saturday  Scripture  class,  in  which  they 
became  deeply  interested.  A  Young  People's  Society  was 
formed  for  social,  literaiy  and  religious  work.  In  addi- 
tion to  private  meetings  and  exercises,  a  public  meeting 
was  held  once  a  month,  at  which  some  of  the  best  papers 
were  read  and  addresses  delivered.  Occasionally  special 
lectures  were  given  by  strangers.  This  movement  awak- 
ened deep  and  lasting  interest,  drew  large  attendance, 
and  was  the  means  of  enlisting  many  young  people 
permanently  in  church  work.  In  connection  with  it, 
public  services  were  held  in  the  park ;  then  a  fine  hall  in 
the  City  Buildings  was  rented  and  fitted  up  as  a  second 
church,  from  which  sprang  the  Queen  St.  Church.  Dr. 
Lavell,  Messrs.  Cowan,  Sweetman,  Britton,  Skinner,  Mc- 
Cammon,  Clarke,  the  Tandy  Brothers  and  other  young 
men  faithfully  aided  the  junior  minister  in  the  initial 
stages  of  this  work.  The  services  of  the  Misses  Butler, 
Overend,  Clarke,  Shaw,  Mrs.  Philips  and  many  more 
were  not  less  helpful  in  these  early  endeavors  to  enlist 
the  young  people  of  the  Church  in  earnest  co-operation 
for  the  general  good. 

The  Pacific  Coast. — The  gold  mines  excitement  and 
134 


CANADA   AND   BRITISH   COLUMBIA 

consequent  rush  of  adventurers  into  British  Columbia 
made  fresh  demands  for  missionary  labor.  Alany  urgent 
appeals  were  made  for  missionaries.  A  former  resident 
of  New  Brunswick  wrote  : 

'  There  are  thousands  here  who  may  say,  "  No  man 
careth  for  my  soul  " — wanderers  who  were  trained  in 
our  schools  and  churches,  and  remember  who  taught 
them  to  lisp  the  name  of  Jesus.  "  Come  over  and  help 
us."  If  the  right  man  can  be  found,  a  flourishing  cause 
can  be  established  that  will  bring  glory  to  God  and  peace 
to  men.' 

The  English  Committee  offered  £ioo  towards  opening 
a  mission.  The  Canada  Missionary  Executive  took  up 
the  project,  and,  encouraged  by  liberal  offers,  determined 
on  sending  men  into  that  distant  but  needy  field.  The 
Revs.  Edward  White,  Arthur  Browning,  Ebenezer  Rob- 
son,  with  Ephraim  Evans,  D.D.,  as  Superintendent,  were 
selected,  and  accepted  the  call.  On  the  i6th  of  December, 
1858,  a  valedictory  service  was  held  in  Richmond  St. 
Church,  Toronto,  and  a  farewell  breakfast  the  next 
morning,  in  St.  Lawrence  Hall.  These  services  were 
attended  by  ministers  of  many  churches,  and  by  laymen 
from  many  places,  all  alive  to  the  importance  and  gran- 
deur of  the  project,  and  eager  to  promote  it.  In  a  few 
days  the  missionaries  were  on  their  way  to  New  York, 
where  another  valedictory  service  was  held  in  their 
honor,  the  Revs.  Dr.  McClintock,  Bishop  Janes,  Dr. 
Bangs,  Francis  Hall,  Esq.,  and  others  manifesting  deep 
and  generous  interest  in  the  mission.  The  Rev.  Dr. 
Green  accompanied  the  mission  party  to  New  York,  and 
assisted  in  arrangements  for  the  long  voyage.  Kingston, 
from  which  Dr.  Evans  had  been  taken,  was  left  ir 
charge  of  the  junior  minister,  J.  E.  Sanderson,  until  thi 
Rev.  Wm.  Pollard  should  arrive  from  Three  Rivers. 

Flinton  Mission — 

'  When  I  came  to  this  mission  we  had  ony  four  regular 
appointments.     Now  we  have  ten  and  are  extending  far 

135 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

back,  fifty  miles  up  the  Addington  Road,  and  have  nearly 
doubled  our  numbers.' — Luther  Houghton. 

The  Goderich  District,  of  which  Rev.  Thos.  Cosford 
was  Chairman,  this  year  had  ten  circuits  and  missions 
and  seventeen  ministers  and  probationers,  with  a  mem- 
bership of  1,866.  Of  the  Mitchell  Mission  on  this  dis- 
trict, Rev.  Geo.  H.  Cornish  writes : 

'  I  was  sent  to  this   IMission,  with  the  Rev.  John   S. 
Evans  as  my  Superintendent.     It  was  my  first  field,  ex- 
tending into  four  townships,  and  had  fifteen  preaching 
places.     On  Sunday,  June  27th,  I  opened  my  commission 
with  a  sermon  from  i  Cor.  i :  23,  travelled  20  miles  on 
horseback,   preached   three   times   and   met   two   classes. 
Monday,  28th,  I  rode  9  miles  to  attend  a  S.  S.  Anniver- 
sary  and   tea   held   in   the   bush,   and   gave   an   address. 
Tuesday   rode     10    miles   to    the    village   of  Moncton, 
visited    13    families,   praying  in  each  home,   and   in  the 
evening  preached  to  a  congregation  of  35  in  a  private 
house.      Wednesday    returned   to   Mitchell,   visited    four 
families  on  the  way.     Friday  rode   15  miles,   visited  8 
families.    Thus  in  my  first  week  in  the  work  I  had  made 
70  miles  on  horseback,  preached  4  times,  met  2  classes 
and  visited  35  families,  widely  scattered  in  a  new  coun- 
try.    On  my  second   Sabbath  my   subject   was   "  Christ 
lifted  up."     Many  in  my  congregation  were  melted  to 
tears.    A  girl  of  ten  summers,  convinced  of  sin,  began  to 
cry  for  mercy  and  soon  obtained  peace.     In  conversing 
with  her  the  next  day  about  the  great  change,  she  told 
me — "I   just    said,    'My    Saviour!'    with    all    my   heart. 
and  then  my  burden  was  gone."    In  her  room  that  night 
she  wa^  heard  praying  for  her  brother.      On    a    sub- 
sequent Sabbath  five  persons  were  led  to  accept  the  great 
salvation.     I  felt  I  could  truly  say, 
• 

"  Oh,  'tis  worth  living  for  this 
To  administer  bliss 
And  salvation  in  Jesus'  name." 

These  townships  are  not  much  cleared  as  yet,  but  the 
lots  are  all  taken  up  and  are  fast  being  settled ;  the  land 
is  good  and  will  be  very  productive.' 

136 


CANADA   AND    BRITISH    COLUMBIA 

Ottawa,  Jan.  20th,  1859: 

'  Our  work  has  been  reviving  through  the  ordinary 
means.  Though  the  names  of  many  have  been  struck  off, 
we  have  an  advance  of  fifty;  and  if  we  value  fidehty  to 
Methodist  rules  our  membership  is  doubled.  Not  only  is 
attendance  at  class  and  prayer  meetings  quadrupled,  but 
the  Sabbath  congregation  is  greatly  increased  and  funds 
in  advance.  After  a  tea-meeting  about  $1,000  was  sub- 
scribed towards  wiping  off  our  church  debt,  and  we  may 
get  as  much  more.' — John  Carroll. 

The  33rd  Annual  Missionary  Report  says : 

*  The  last  year  has  been  somewhat  different  in  its  re- 
ceipts from  previous  years,  owing  to  the  disastrous  re- 
vulsion in  American  finances  and  unwarranted  Canadian 
speculation.  But  these  exceptional  circumstances  do  not 
dishearten  the  Society's  supporters  nor  the  Committee's 
confidence  in  the  support  of  its  150  missions  and  220 
agents.' 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Hurlburt  writes  from  the  North 
Shore  of  Lake  Superior,  Jan.  21st,  1859: 

'  These  Indians  are  some  of  the  most  destitute  and 
wretched  of  their  race.  But  they  have  been  reached  by 
the  Gospel,  and  some  of  our  native  converts  are  laboring 
successfully  among  them.  Last  summer  I  baptized  43, 
and  we  propose  a  camp-meeting  next  summer,  to  which 
many  may  come  two  hundred  miles.  Nothing  of  this 
kind  has  ever  been  attempted  on  the  North  Shore,  and  we 
think  it  very  important  to  get  as  many  as  we  can  together 
for  a  week.  We  shall  need  for  them  ten  barrels  of  meal 
or  flour,  fish-hooks,  lines,  etc.  Could  a  few  of  our  friends 
furnish  these  supplies?  John  McDonald,  Esq.,  Toronto, 
would  receive  and  ship  them.' 

Orangeville,  February,  1859: 

'  When  this  locality  was  made  a  separate  circuit  there 
were  about  half  a  dozen  members.  We  have  been 
favored  with  success,  and  a  neat  church,  26  x  36,  was 
opened  last  Sabbath.' 

Victoria,  B.C.,  February  nth,   1859: 

'  Yesterday  morning  we  cast  anchor  in  this  harbor, 
five  weeks  from  New  York.     Our  good  Brother  Pidwell 

137 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

came  aboard  and  escorted  us  to  the  house  prepared  for 
us.  The  site  of  the  town  is  pleasant,  but  there  are  few 
houses.  The  principal  streets  are  being  macadamized. 
The  Union  Jack  and  the  Stars  and  Stripes  float  side  by 
side — emblematic,  I  suppose,  of  the  unity  prevailing. 
Policemen  walk  the  streets  and  everything  is  orderly. 
We  begin  preaching  on  Sunday,  and  prospects  are  good. 
Places  in  the  distance  are  opening  up  and  news  from  the 
gold  fields  is  encouraging.  We  want  men  and  women 
to  give  this  colony  a  truly  British  stamp.'  —  Arthur 
Browning. 

The  Rev.  Edward  White  writes,  a  week  later ; 

'  The  new  Police  Barracks  were  hastily  fitted  up  for 
our  services  on  Sunday.  They  were  half  filled  in  the 
morning,  and  in  the  evening  crowded ;  the  people  seem 
hungry  for  the  word.  The  climate  is  fine ;  no  frost,  nor 
snow,  except  on  the  mountains.  Last  June  there  were 
not  more  than  twenty  buildings  outside  the  Company's 
fort;  now  over  five  hundred,  about  fifty  store?  and  a 
dozen  hotels;  board,  $1.50  to  $3  a  day.  The  population 
is  about  3,000.  Lots  are  selling  from  $100  to  $10,000. 
Government  lands  are  $2.50  an  acre  in  British  Columbia 
and  double  that  on  the  Island.  Governor  Douglas  and 
Lieut. -Col.  ]\Ioody  are  a  terror  to  evildoers.  There  are 
probably  50,000  miners,  and  more  on  the  way.  We  have 
found  the  officers  of  the  Company  kind  and  gentlemanly. 
We  had  the  honor  of  dining  with  the  Governor.  Apples 
are  40c.  a  lb.,  bread  12  i-2c.,  butter  50c.,  cheese  50c.,  beef 
25c.,  coal  $16  a  ton.' 

March  7th. — Rev.  A.  Browning  writes  from  Nanaimo, 
eighty  miles  from  Victoria,  telling  of  the  wonderful 
mines,  the  medley  population,  the  many  Indians  and  the 
wrongs  they  suffer,  the  prospect  for  gold  up  the  Eraser, 
the  prevailing  lawlessness,  and  the  work  before  the 
churches. 

Rev.  E.  White  writes  again.  Queensborough,  B.C., 
April  3rd: 

'  It  is  now  six  weeks  since  I  wrote  you,  and  I  should 
have  something  new  to  communicate,  in  a  country  where 
changes  are  so  sudden  and  so  great.     But  it  has  been  the 

138 


CANADA- AND   BRITISH   COLUMBIA 

"  rainy  season,"  during  which  improvements  languish. 
There  is  much  building  in  Victoria,  the  miners  in  the 
upper  country  are  at  work  again,  steamers  are  loaded 
with  passengers  for  the  gold  regions.  There  is  some 
open  prairie  ready  for  the  plough.  An  Indian  Chief  has 
a  large  farm,  well  stocked  with  horses,  cattle  and  poultry. 
He  sells  beef  to  the  miners  at  50c.  a  lb.  Potatoes  of  good 
quality  are  abundant.  This  town  is  to  be  the  Capital. 
Col.  Moody,  with  sappers  and  miners,  commenced  opera- 
tions a  month  ago.  There  are  about  twenty  tents  and 
some  small  houses.  The  town  is  beautifully  situated, 
fifteen  miles  from  the  mouth  of  the  Fraser  and  about 
eighty  miles  from  Victoria.  Many  trees  are  twenty  to 
thirty  feet  in  circumference  and  two  hundred  in  height. 
Yesterday,  on  the  trunk  of  an  old  spruce,  I  preached  to 
about  fifty  men  and  the  only  white  woman  in  the  place. 
The  Company  has  given  us  a  site  in  Victoria  for  church 
and  parsonage.     We  are  in  the  best  of  health.' 

Mitchell  Mission:  '  In  February,  Rev.  John  S.  Evans, 
began  special  services  at  Fullarton  Corners,  where  we 
had  a  small  but  devoted  class  of  twelve  members,  who 
for  some  time  had  been  praying,  "  O  Lord,  revive  Thy 
work !"  The  first  week  gave  us  showers  of  blessings,  and 
several  were  brought  into  the  joyful  assurance  of  sins 
forgiven.  Tuesday,  15th,  attendance  increasing,  a  dozen 
seekers  at  the  altar,  several  set  at  liberty.  Wednesday, 
i6th,  six  more  set  at  liberty.  Thursday,  17th,  a  glorious 
time,  seven  more  were  made  to  rejoice  in  God.  Friday, 
1 8th,  Bro.  E.  preached  to  a  crowded  house  with  great 
power,  and  several  more  were  able  to  sing,  "My  God  is 
reconciled."  The  revival  flame  spreads,  the  whole  com- 
munity is  being  aroused.  Sabbath,  27th,  forty-eight  met 
in  class  and  told  how  the  love  of  Jesus  had  been  flooding 
their  souls.  Such  a  meeting  had  never  before  been  held 
in  the  place.  Hallelujah,  the  Lord  reigneth!  Thus  He 
answers  prayer  and  gives  us  the  desire  of  our  hearts  in 
the  conversion  of  souls.  At  the  District  Meeting  held  in 
Clinton  last  week  nearly  every  Circuit  and  Mission  re- 
ported a  year  of  spiritual  prosperity,  and  there  is  an 
increase  of  about  three  hundred  on  the  District.  Praise 
the  Lord!'  Geo.  H.  Cornish. 


139 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Of  Methodist  women  in  Toronto,  perhaps  no  one  is 
more  worthy  of  record  than  Mrs.  Margaret  Taylor, 
widow  of  Mr.  Samuel  Taylor,  and  sister  of  Mr.  John 
G.  Bowes,  who  was  Mayor  of  Toronto,  185 1-3  and 
1861-3.  She  was  for  many  years  one  of  the  most  fer- 
vently devoted  members  of  Adelaide  St.  Church,  an 
earnest  advocate  and  consistent  example  of  holiness  in 
heart  and  life.  She  died  on  the  28th  of  March,  1859,  at 
the  age  of  53  years. 

THE  OLD   FORSAKEN   HOUSE. 

Continued  from  page  122. 

In  me  the  Word  of  God  was  read 

Both  night  and  morn,  and  prayer  was  made, 

And  lo!    th'  Almighty  heard  it; 
And  often  when   His  praise  was  sung 
With  thankful  heart  and  cheerful  tongue, 

We  felt  He  did  regard  it. 

Year  after  year  thus  rolled  away, 
And  peaceful  night  succeeded  day, 

The  gains  our  toils  rewarding; 
We  had  our  troubles,  that  is  true. 
But  so  comparatively  few. 

They  were  not  worth  recording. 

But  ah !   a  mighty  change  took  place ; 
I  saw  it  in  my  master's  face 

As  he  began  to  grumble ; 
He  said  that  I  was  growing  old 
And  could  not  screen  him  from  the  cold ; 

He  feared  that  I  should  tumble. 

To  reason  then  was  of  no  use ; 
Resolved  to  build  another  house 

He  was  at  once  decided; 
The  bricks  were  burnt,  a  plan  was  drawn. 
The  stones  were  hauled,  the  timber  sawn. 

And  all  things  else  provided. 

Across  the  creek  I  chanced  to  look. 

And  thought  I  saw  the  chimney's  smoke — 

Or  else  my  eyes  deceived  me ; 
I  fixed  my  specks  and  looked  again, 
And  then  I  saw  it  very  plain — 
But  dear,  O  dear  I    it  grieved  me. 
Nine  of  twenty-one  stanzas, 
140 


1.  McDougall,  Rev.'fioor^^a 
4.  Dewart,  E.  H.,  D.D. 


•2.  Swann,  Rev.  Matthew      3.  Burns,  Rev.|Williain 
5.  Mrs.  Letitia  Youmans      6.  Stewart,  Charles,  D.D. 


Sanderson,  Rev.  J.  E.,  M.A.     3.  Irwin,  Mr.  Robert 


0.   McL>ona''h,  Wni.,  D.D. 


: 


CHAPTER  XII. 

1859. 

UNIVERSITY  AND  COLLEGES. 

Conference,  Hamilton — University — Colleges — incidents — Corner- 
stone— Freshman — Browning — Palmer  —  Hurlburt  —  Memor- 
ials— Biggar — Vandusen — Primitives — Parliament — Old  Blue 
Church. 

The  Conference  opened  in  John  St.  Church,  Hamilton, 
on  the  1st  of  June,  1859. 

President — Rev.  Joseph  Stinson,  D.D. ;  Secretary,  Rev. 
E.  B.  Harper,  M.A. 

Into  full  connection — John  C.  Ash,  Wm.  H.  I^aird, 
Alfred  Andrews,  Jonathan  E.  Betts,  Th.  Cobb.  John  N. 
Lake,  Th.  S.  Howard,  Samuel  Tucker,  James  E.  Dyer, 
Isaac  Crane,  Henry  Bawtenheimer,  Wm.  R.  Dyre,  Wm. 
Hay,  Alex.  Sutherland,  James  F.  Latimer,  Samuel 
Down,  Jas.  Hughes,  Jr.,  Wm.  L.  Scott,  John  Jackson. 
James  Thompson,  Wm.  Short,  Alex.  Drennan,  Wm. 
Norton,  Ed.  E.  Sweet,  Edward  Ward,  Wm.  Hansford, 
Benj.  Cole,  John  Hough,  John  Davies,  Hiram  Fowler, 
Edward  Barrass. 

Rev.  David  Hunt  was  received  from  the  Primitive 
Methodist  Church. 

Forty-three  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — Samuel  C  Seeley,  1859,  aged  27  years. 

Thos.  Fawcett,  March  20th,  1859,  aged  51  years. 

Book  Steivard — Anson  Green,  D.D. 

Editor — James  Spencer. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Stinson  wis  requested  as  President  and 
the  Rev.  Richard  Jones  as  Co-Delegate  for  next  year. 

Number  of  members,  39,400;  increase,  4,261, 

£         s.     d. 

Superannuation  Fund    1,722     19     2 

Contingent   Fund 1,617       i     6 

Chapel   Rehef   Fund    362     13     i 

A  series  of  resolutions  in  regard  to  Victoria  College 
141 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

was  adopted,  the  last  of  which  was,  "  That  Victoria 
College  is  justly  entitled  to  share  in  the  Legislative  pro- 
vision for  Superior  Education. 

'  Our  visit  to  Hamilton  was  mainly  in  view  of  attend- 
ing Ihe  Wesleyan  Conference.  Nearly  300  ministers 
were  in  attendance — intelligent  and  spirited  as  found  in 
any  church  or  country.  The  President  is  a  fine  specimen 
of  English  AA^esleyanism.  dignified,  yet  congenial.  His 
predecessor.  Rev.  Enoch  Wood,  is  Superintendent  of 
Missions,  full  of  tact  and  ability.  This  church  has  the 
genius  to  work  among  all  classes,  and  its  prospects  are 
pleasing.' — Buffalo  Christian  Advocate. 

By  certain  Toronto  papers  the  Conference  resolutions 
regarding  Victoria  College  were  represented  as  an  attack 
on  Toronto  University  and  Upper  Canada  College. 
They  were  replied  to  in  The  Guardian,  and  the  idea  of 
a  Provincial  University,  with  a  common  relation  to  all 
the  Colleges  of  the  country  was  maintained.  To  accom- 
plish this  ideal  and  so  meet  the  necessities  and  the 
demands  of  the  country  proved  to  be  a  difficult  task, 
requiring  time  and  efifort.  Toronto  University  and 
Upper  Canada  College  were  not  only  using  up  an  in- 
come of  £20,000  a  year,  but  receiving  in  addition  £1,100 
from  the  £5,000  appropriated  for  general  Superior  Edu- 
cation. An  Act  had  been  passed  in  1853,  providing  for 
the  affiliation  of  other  Colleges  with  the  University  of 
Toronto;  and  that  the  surplus,  after  paying  the  expenses 
of  the  University  and  University  College,  should  be  de- 
voted to  the  promotion  of  collegiate  education  in  Upper 
Canada.  But  as  no  surplus  was  probable,  the  Bursar 
showing  an  expenditure  of  over  £60,000  in  a  single  year, 
such  strong  representations  were  made  to  the  Govern- 
ment by  the  Colleges  concerned  that  a  Committee  of 
Investigation  was  appointed.  Public  meetings  were  also 
held  throughout  the  country  to  awaken  general  interest 
and  obtain  fair  treatment  of  all  the  Colleges. 

On  many  circuits  camp-meetings  were  held,  and  with 
142 


i 

1 


UNIVERSITY   AND    COLLEGES 

the  usual  success.  Of  the^one  held  on  the  Gosfield  cir- 
cuit, Rev.  Thomas  S.  Howard  gives  some  remarkable 
incidents : 

'  On  Monday  afternoon,  when  the  prayer-meeting 
closed,  many  were  carried  to  the  tents,  overpowered. 
After  the  lapsv^.  of  five  hours  I  saw  five  persons  still 
lying  and  unable  to  speak  or  move.  On  Tuesday  evening 
four  persons  fell  to  the  ground  while  we  were  singing. 
On  Wednesday  our  parting  love-feast  began  at  8  o'clock. 
When  an  invitation  was  given  for  penitents  to  come 
forward,  a  young  man  under  conviction  attempted  to 
leave,  and  when  his  mother  showed  signs  of  sorrow  a 
brother  said :  "Let  him  go ;  God  will  bring  him  back." 
He  fell,  stifif  as  a  corpse,  and  cried  for  mercy.  I  never 
attended  so  interesting  a  camp-meeting.' 

Dr.  Stinson  attended  the  camp-meeting  on  Christian 
Island,  crossing  the  Georgian  Bay  in  a  furious  gale.  He 
baptized  several  and  administered  the  Lord's  Supper. 

On  the  invitation  of  Dr.  Evans,  Revs.  E.  White  and 
E.  Robson  visited  Victoria  for  the  laying  of  the  corner- 
stone of  the  new  church. 

'  We  could  not  fail  to  observe  the  marked  improvement 
made  since  April :  a  new  bridge  across  James'  Bay,  new 
Government  buildings,  stores,  private  residences,  banks 
and  the  new  parsonage.  The  corner-stone  was  laid  by 
the  Governor.  We  had  the  pleasure  of  greeting  a  sister 
from  Canada,  now  Mrs.  Robson.' 

Many  interesting  Sunday  School  anniversaries  attest 
increasing  interest  in  this  department  of  church  work. 

At  Bolton,  September  19th,  1859,  '  Sunday  School 
sermons  were  preached  by  Brother  William  Hall, 
a  worthy  local  preacher,  the  Rev.  T.  Lawson,  and 
Dr.  Stinson.  The  public  meeting  on  Monday  exceeded 
anything  of  the  kind  ever  held  in  Bolton.  The  chair  was 
ably  filled  by  Mr.  Wm.  Roadhouse.  Recitations,  music 
and  addresses  followed  in  quick  succession.  The  audi- 
ence was  delighted  and  a  debt  of  £1 1  cleared  off.' 

Mr.  Charles  Freshman,  formerly  a  Jewish  rabbi  in 
Quebec,  converted  under  the  teaching  of  the  Rev.  James 

143 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Elliott,  has  been  delivering  ,  lectures  in  Toronto  and 
other  places  on  the  customs  and  belief  of  the  Jews. 

The  controversy  regarding-  education  and  the  col- 
leges waxed  warmer  day  by  day,  and  The  Guardian  was 
kept  on  the  alert  correcting  the  misrepresentations  of 
The  Toronto  Patriot,  The  Montreal  Witness  and  other 
papers. 

'  The  Conference  now,  as  in  former  years,  appeals  to 
the  conscience  and  patriotism  of  every  honest  man,  as  its 
sole  object  is  the  attainment  of  equal  rights  and  the  pro- 
motion of  the  best  educational  interests  of  all  classes.  In 
future  years  it  will  be  acknowledged  to  have  done  as 
good  service  in  originating  the  present  movement  for 
freedom  an  1  equal  rights  in  academic  education  as  even 
its  enemies  now  admit  it  to  have  done  in  battling  for 
years  in  favor  of  all  denominations  having  the  right  to 
hold  church  property  and  to  perform  the  marriage  cere- 
mony.' 

'  I  have  struck  a  blow,'  writes  Rev.  A.  Browning,  of 
Nanaimo,  B.C.,  '  in  favor  of  the  poor  Indian,  and  such  a 
nest  of  hornets  as  I  have  raised !  Too  long  have  these 
natives  been  treated  as  brutes  and  too  long  has  the  truth 
been  stifled,  but  a  better  day  is  dawning ' 

The  only  son  of  Rev.  Dr.  Evans  was  drowned  at  Vic- 
toria, B.C.,  on  the  5th  of  November,  1859. 

Mrs.  Palmer's  books  on  holiness  had  so  well  prepared 
English  Methodists  for  her  coming  that  '  she  and  her 
devoted  husband  will  find  invitations  for  a  lifetime.  So 
richly  did  the  blessing  of  God  rest  upon  them  at  New- 
castle that  their  way  will  be  open  to  the  best  centres 
of  Methodism.' 

Nanticoke,  Nov.  28th,  1859:  'Since  our  field  meeting 
in  September,  the  work  has  steadily  advanced,  with 
upwards  of  thirty  conversions.  In  Jarvis  we  have  formed 
a  class  of  eighteen,  and  it  promises  to  become  a  leading 
appointment.  Though  the  harvest  was  poor,  more  has 
been  paid  in  than  for  the  same  time  in  any  previous 
year.' — John  N.  Lake. 

Smithville  Circuit :  '  The  house  we  live  in  was  com- 
144 


UNIVERSITY    AND    COLLEGES 

menced  by  my  energetic  predecessor,  Rev.  E  White. 
Owing  to  the  failure  of  the  crops,  some  thought  it 
premature  to  attempt  a  new  building,  but  a  subscription 
list  was  circulated  with  good  success.  Now  we  have  a 
parsonage  of  which  our  friends  are  not  ashamed.  By 
the  Ladies'  Aid  it  was  well  furnished.' — John  Shaw. 

The  income  of  the  Missionary  Society  is  $42,348 — a 
considerable  decrease,  owing  to  the  financial  state  of  the 
country ;  but  the  committee  is  hopeful  of  recovery. 

New  churches  have  been  opened  in  London,  Lyne- 
dock,  Lyn,  Glenville,  Collingwood,  etc. 

Mrs.  Madden  wife  of  Rev.  D.  B.  Madden,  and  young- 
est daughter  of  Allan  and  Hannah  Ellis,  of  Mt.  Pleasant, 
died  at  Three  Rivers,  after  a  few  days'  illness,  on  the 
22nd  of  December,  1859,  at  the  age  of  33  years. 

'  Far  from  her  early  home,  and  among  strangers,  she 
faithfully  maintained  a  close  walk  with  God  and  died 
with  songs  of  Zion  upon  her  lips.' 

The  committee  appointed  by  Conference  on  University 
and  College  Education  gathered  and  published  much  in- 
formation and  presented  important  facts  before  official 
meetings  and  conventions.  Many  resolutions  were 
adopted,  and  memorials  forwarded  to  the  Legislature, 
urging  an  impartial  consideration  of  the  claims  of  the 
colleges,  according  to  the  work  done  by  them,  and  in 
accordance  with  the  University  Act  of  1853. 

The  discussion  of  these  important  questions  by  repre- 
sentative business  men,  and  the  general  circulation  of  in- 
formation, could  not  fail  to  influence  the  general 
sentiment  of  the  country.  Many  Editors  took  part  in  the 
discussions  and  aided  the  memorialists. 

On  the  19th  of  March,  i860,  on  motion  of  the  Hon. 
M,  Cameron,  a  committee  was  struck  for  the  purpose  of 
taking  into  consideration  and  reporting  upon  the  petition 
of  the  Methodist  Conference  in  reference  to  the  expendi- 
ture of  the  funds  of  Toronto  University. 

10  145  T     ' 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Camilla  Coltman,  widow  of  the  late  Charles  Biggar, 
Esq.,  of  the  Carrying  Place,  died  on  the  25th  of  January, 
i860,  in  her  60th  year.    Dr.  Green  says : 

'  Her  house  was  the  first  I  entered,  on  my  first  cir- 
cuit, and  how  many  weary  itinerants  have  looked  forward 
to  the  hour  when  they  should  reach  her  comfortable 
home !  Hundreds  have  been  fed  at  her  table,  warmed  at 
her  fireside  and  cheered  by  the  kindness  of  her  heart. 
She  was  a  pious,  devoted  and  charming  woman  for  whom 
many  will  mourn.' 

Penetanguishene,  April  3rd,  i860: 

'  We  have  been  engaged  in  revival  work  since  New 
Year's,  save  one  week.  At  French's,  where  the  people 
were  greatly  opposed  to  Methodism,  the  house  was  soon 
crowded,  and  God  was  present  to  convince  and  convert. 
After  some  weeks  we  were  constrained  to  move  to  the 
Brock  Settlement,  where  many  were  awakened,  and  for 
two  weeks  the  manifestations  of  divine  power  increased, 
w<hen  a  good  brother,  McRoberts,  a  local  preacher,  came 
to  my  help.  We  formed  a  large  class,  taking  in  some 
whole  families.  All  opposition  seems  to  have  vanished. 
After  a  week's  rest  we  began  in  town.  I  have  attended 
many  revival  meetings,  but  never  saw  such  pow^r  dis- 
played. Drunkards  have  dashed  away  the  glass,  swearers 
have  ceased  their  blasphemy,  and  the  work  still  moves 
on.' — Wm.  M.  Cooley. 

"  Full  many  a  flower  is  born  to  blush  unseen 
And  waste  its  sweetness  on  the  desert  air." 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Eairhall  came  from  Sussex,  England. 
and  settled  in  a  remote  part  of  the  McGillivery  Mission, 
but  not  too  remote  to  be  found  by  the  seeker  of  the  lost 
sheep. 

'  At  a  prayer  meeting  held  by  Bro.  Ottawell  they  were 
invited  to  join  the  class.  The  first  sermon  Mrs.  Eairhall 
heard  from  a  Wesleyan  missionary,  Bro.  John  Webster, 
on  "  The  Master  is  come  and  calleth  for  thee,"  resulted 
in  her  conversion.  Moving  into  the  parsonage  neighbor- 
hood, the  family  became  very  useful.  In  revival';  and  in 
a  class  of  eighty  Mrs.  Eairhall  was  specially  useful.    On 

146  J 


UNIVERSITY    AND    COLLEGES 

the  28th  of  March,  eight  years  from  the  day  of  her 
marriage,  this  afifectionate  wife  and  mother,  after  a  few 
hours  of  suffering,  passed  peacefully  home.  We  have  in 
this — 

1.  A  message  to  those  who  support  missions. 

2.  A  reward  for  the  zealous  missionary  visiting  those 
who  are  making  their  home  in  remote  parts. 

3.  A  word  to  leaders — Look  after  serious  persons. 

4.  A  lesson  to  mothers  in  Israel  and  daughters  of  Zion 
in  faithful  obedience  to  Christ. 

5.  A  warning  to  those  who  neglect  the  Master's  call. 

The  Master  is  come,  and  He  calleth  for  thee ; 

How  clear  and  how  loving  this  call ! 
He  has  come,  and  is  calling  to  you  and  to  me — 

To  Martha,  to  Mary,  to  all.' — Wm.  Dignam. 

Rev.  George  H.  Cornish  writes: 

'  The  Conference  of  1859  sent  me  to  Clinton  as  col- 
league to  Rev.  Thomas  Cleghorn — a  circuit  with  thirteen 
appointments,  necessitating  a  great  deal  of  travel.  In 
visiting  in  the  township  of  McKillop,  I  found  a  family 
named  Woods  living  in  a  small  log  shanty  in  the  bush. 
Mrs.  W.  was  ill  and  had  been  confined  to  her  bed  for 
four  years.  With  her  I  had  a  delightful  conversation, 
found  she  could  rejoice  in  Christ  as  her  Saviour.  She 
said,  "I  have  a  good  hope  of  soon  reaching  my  home 
above.  I  know  not  why  he  permits  me  to  suffer  here  so 
long,  but  it  must  be  for  some  wise  end."  She  was  born 
in  England  in  the  year  1779  and  was  the  daughter  of  a 
soldier  in  the  British  army.  She  well  remembered  seeing 
the  Rev.  John  Wesley  two  or  three  times  in  her  young 
girlhood.  The  regiment  to  which  her  father  belonged 
was  sent  early  in  the  new  century  to  the  Island  of  Ceylon, 
and  there,  under  the  preaching  of  the  Rev.  Wm.  Harvard, 
she  with  her  husband  and  parents  was  converted  and 
united  with  the  Methodist  Church  and  received  her  first 
quarterly  ticket  from  Mr.  Hansard.  Coming  to  Canada 
as  a  pensioner  from  the  army,  Mr.  W.  had  taken  up 
land  in  this  township  and  became  identified  with  the  first 
class  organized  about  two  miles  from  their  home.  This 
aged  saint  of  God  passed  in  triumph  to  her  reward  early 
in  i860.' 

147 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Conrad  Vandusen,  father  of  the  Rev.  Conrad  Van- 
dusen,  was  born  near  Albany,  N.Y.,  April  23rd.  1751,  of 
German  descent. 

'  At  the  Revolution  he  joined  the  British  army,  was 
captured  by  the  Americans,  but  escaped  and  was  with 
the  army  until  the  war  was  over.  He  then  removed  to 
Canada,  settled  in  Adolphustown,  where  his  house,  store 
and  tavern  became  a  centre  for  dancing  and  drinking. 
For  about  fourteen  years  these  Empire  Loyalists  knew 
nothing  of  religious  privileges.  In  1790  they  were  vis- 
ited by  Wm.  Losee,  who  was  entertained  in  Vandusen's 
tavern,  and  there  the  people  were  invited  to  preaching. 
A  revival  followed  and  the  tavernkeeper  was  one  of  the 
converts.  He  closed  the  bar,  cut  down  the  sign  post,  the 
tavern  became  a  house  of  prayer,  Mr.  Vandusen  a  stew- 
ard and  class  leader  until  his  death  in  1827.' 

The  Annual  Conference  of  the  Primitive  Methodist 
Church  in  Canada  met  in  Ebenezer  Church,  Gore  of  To- 
ronto, April  13th,  i860.  President — Rev.  Wm,  Rowe; 
Secretary,  Rev.  Robt.  Boyle.  This  Conference  was  the 
largest  yet  held;  cheering  increases  were  reported,  and 
funds  well  sustained.  Several  ministers  were  appointed 
to  new  fields. 

In  the  investigation  of  University  affairs  by  the  Legis- 
lature, Drs.  Ryerson,  Green,  Stinson  and  others 
appeared  as  witnesses.  Their  statements  were  published, 
and  also  Dr.  Ryerson's  reply  to  Dr.  Wilson,  Dr.  Lillie 
and  others,  exposing  many  misstatements. 

At  a  public  meeting,  held  in  Kingston,  the  Hon.  James 
Ferrier  said :  '  No  other  question  excited  anything  like 
so  deep  an  interest  in  Parliament  as  the  University 
Question.  For  weeks  it  absorbed  the  attention  of  both 
Houses.  When  Dr.  Wilson  uttered  his  eloquent  speech 
before  the  Committee  of  the  House,  it  was  reported  that 
the  Methodist  faction  was  defeated  and  the  controversy 
ended.  But  when  I  saw  Dr.  Ryerson  enter  the  room,  so 
crowded  that   there   was   not  standing-room,   I   said  to 

148 


UNIVERSITY   AND   COLLEGES 

myself,  the  Methodist  cause  is  not  down  yet.  Dr.  Ryer- 
son  spoke,  with  more  than  bis  usual  ability  and  clearness, 
for  two  hours  and  forty  minutes,  and  on  the  second 
day  one  hour  and  forty-five  minutes,  producing  the 
deepest  conviction  of  the  correctness  of  bis  position.  So 
overwhelming  was  the  efifect  of  bis  address  that  an  Hon. 
member  of  the  LTpper  House  said  to  me,  "  I  wish  he 
belonged  to  our  church,"  and  a  member  of  the  Legis- 
lature exclaimed,  "  My !  What  a  Bishop  he  would 
make !  "  I  hope  every  minister  and  member  will  do  bis 
duty  in  this  matter.' 

From  the  Goderich  District  we  have  the  following 
from  Rev.  Geo.  H.  Cornish: 

'  In  Seaforth,  a  village  on  the  Huron  Road,  eight 
miles  from  Clinton,  bidding  fair  to  become  a  town  of 
some  importance,  we  had  no  services,  the  nearest  ap- 
pointment being  the  Sparling  Church,  one  and  i  quarter 
miles  north.  So,  at  the  request  of  my  Superintendent,  I 
went  on  Sabbath  evening,  Nov.  13th,  1859,  and  preached 
what  proved  to  be  the  first  Methodist  sermon  in  Sea- 
forth. The  service  was  held  in  an  upper  room  in  the  new 
frame  bouse  of  Bro.  James  Sparling,  which  was  well 
filled  with  an  attentive  congregation. 

Saturday  afternoon,  Jan.  21st,  i860,  have  just  re- 
turned from  Wawanosh,  where  I  have  been  assisting  in 
missionary  meetings.  The  deputation  on  this  tour  was 
Revs.  James  F.  Latimer,  H.  Bawtinheimer,  Daniel  Con- 
nolly, with  myself  and  the  preachers  on  the  mission. 
Revs.  E.  L.  Koyl  and  John  Neelands.  Four  evenmgs 
we  were  divided.  On  Friday  night,  for  the  last  and  most 
important  meeting,  we  all  met  at  the  church,  and  we 
there  also  had  the  Chairman  of  the  District,  Bro.  Cos- 
ford.  The  weather  all  the  week  was  favorable,  the 
meetings  were  well  attended,  and  the  contributions  much 
in  advance  of  last  year.  This  was  my  first  visit  to  the 
townships  of  Wawanosh,  Asbfield  and  Colborne.  They 
far  exceed  my  expectations,  being  fairly  well  settled,  and 
having  some  good  gravel  roads.  In  a  few  years  more, 
when  the  axeman  shall  have  cleared  more  of  these  giant 

149 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

forests,  it  will  undoubtedly  be  a  fine  agricultural  country. 
The  mission  is  enjoying  great  spiritual  prosperity. 

'  On  Sunday,  Jan.  29th,  I  preached  missionary  sermons 
at  Cole's,  Cox's  and  Welsh's,  three  appointments  on  the 
Bayfield  Mission,  and  addressed  missionary  meetings  on 
the  five  evenings  following,  the  last  of  the  series  being 
held  in  Bayfield  village,  beautifully  situated  on  the 
shores  of  Lake  Huron.  The  meetings  were  all  well  at- 
tended and  the  results  financially  will  be  in  advance  of 
previous  years.' 

One  of  the  local  preachers  who  greatly  aided  the  regu- 
lar itinerants  for  many  years  on  all  those  western 
circuits  was  Mr.  George  Webster,  of  London.  His 
father  came  to  that  vicinity  in  1819,  and  the  first  sermon 
preached  in  London  Township  was  preached  in  his  house 
by  the  Rev.  Samuel  Belton.  George  was  converted  at  the 
age  of  nineteen  and  in  a  few  years  became  a  laborious 
and  acceptable  local  preacher.  He  was  also  Sabbath 
School  Superintendent  in  London  for  many  years.  In 
1839  he  married  Miss  Susanah  Jackson,  and  wnth  a 
numerous  family,  lived  to  celebrate  their  golden  wed- 
ding, somewhat  beyond  the  time  limits  of  this  volume. 
British  Columbia,  April  14th,  i860: 

*  I  had  the  pleasure  of  preaching  at  the  dedication  of 
Br.  White's  church,  New  Westminster,  on  Sunday  last, 
and  attending  the  tea-meeting,  with  Dr.  Evans  and  Col. 
Moody.  Jew  and  Gentile,  Catholic  and  Protestant 
joined  in  the  repast.' — A.  Browning. 

'  Scarcely  a  week  passes  in  which  we  have  no  notice  of 
church-opening  services.  Yet  the  accommodation 
scarcely  keeps  pace  with  the  growth  of  our  population. 
When  the  Leslieville  Church  was  almost  ready  for  dedi- 
cation. Miss  Ashbridge,  who  had  taken  great  interest  in 
its  erection,  was  summoned  away.' — Guardian. 

The  Old  Blue  Church. — Travellers  by  land  or  water 
admire  the  beautiful  scenery  along  the  swift-flowing  St. 
Lawrence  from  Brockville  to  Prescott.  Many  beautiful 
homes  and  fruitful   farms  remind  the  passer-by  of  the 

150 


UNIVERSITY   AND   COLLEGES 

first  settlers,  the  U.  E.  Loyalists,  who  abandoned  their 
American  homes  to  follow  the  Union  Jack  into  these 
British  dominions.  They  point  further  back,  also,  to 
earlier  expatriation  of  some  of  their  fathers  from  the 
banks  of  the  Rhine,  for  conscience  sake,  and  the  settle- 
ment of  over  a  hundred  families  of  refugees,  in  1708,  in 
the  County  of  Limerick,  Ireland,  under  the  protection  of 
Queen  Anne,  where,  through  the  instrumentality  of 
Methodist  preachers,  many  of  them  became  examples  of 
sobriety  and  piety.  Dotting  the  picturesque  landscape 
and  nestling  amid  the  sheltering  foliage  are  still  found 
substantial  homesteads  of  the  Glassfords,  Arnolds, 
Breckenridges,  Joneses,  Hendersons,  Wells,  Hecks,  Hurl- 
burts,  and  others,  telling  their  tales  of  early  heroism 
and  patient  toil.  Passing  the  quiet  village  of  Maitland, 
and  midway  to  Prescott,  we  come  upon  the  site  of  the 
"  Old  Blue  Church,"  originally  a  frame  building,  painted 
blue,  but  now  transformed  and  standing  nearer  the 
road.  Around  it  is  the  resting-place  not  only  of  Paul 
and  Barbara  Heck,  honored  of  God  in  the  planting  of 
Methodism  in  both  divisions  of  this  great  continent,  but 
also  of  Thomas  Madden,  two  of  his  daughters — Eliza, 
who  died  early,  and  Hester,  the  gifted  and  devoted  wife 
of  Alva  Adams — of  Heman  Hurlburt  also,  and  his  wife — 
parents  of  four  Methodist  ministers^ — of  Catharine 
Switzer — the  beautiful  girl  who,  at  the  age  of  sixteen, 
became  the  wife  of  Philip  Embury,  and,  after  his  death, 
of  John  Lawrence,  in  whose  house  was  organized  the 
first  Methodist  class  in  Augusta — and  of  other  early 
settlers  and  their  descendants. 


151 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

i860. 

THE   PRINCE   OF   WALES  AND   METHODISM. 

Conference,  Kingston — Playter— Eastern  Conference — The  Prince 
— McDougall  —  Scott  —  Lawrence  —  Pacific  Coast — Jubilee — 
Wooster — Convention — Young  People — Planner. 

The  Conference  of  i860  was  held  in  the  Sydenham 
St.  Church,  Kingston,  commencing  June  6th,   i860. 

President — Rev.  Dr.  Stinson;  Secretary,  Rev.  Ken- 
nedy Creighton.  The  Revs.  Dr.  Pickard  and  James  Nar- 
roway,  M.A.,  Representatives  of  the  Eastern  Conference, 
were  introduced;  also  Rev.  Dr.  Sargeant,  of  the  Balti- 
more Conference. 

The  official  brethren  of  Kingston  presented  an  address, 
which  was  read  by  Dr.  Lavell. 

Into  full  connection — Wm.  R.  Parker,  B.A.,  John  Lea- 
royd,  Richard  Pinch,  Brinton  P.  Brown,  Wm.  W.  Clark, 
Wm.  Cross,  John  F.  Messmore,  Wm.  J.  Hunter,  Wm. 
Miller,  Philip  Rose,  Andrew  Milliken,  Th.  Hadwen, 
Samuel  C.  Philp,  Jr.,  Stephen  Bond,  Nicholas  R.  Will- 
oughby,  B.A.,  Geo.  M.  Meacham,  B.A.,  Andrew  L. 
Peterson,  James  Ash,  John  Slight,  Wm.  C.  Henderson, 
B.A.,  Levi  Vanderburg,  Armand  Parent,  James  Goodwin, 
Donald  G.  Sutherland,  Samuel  Wilson,  Joseph  Kilgour, 
Th.  Cleworth,  Th.  S.  Keough,  Joshua  H.  Johnson, 
M.A.,  Charles  Freshman,  D.D.,  John  Walton,  Ebenezer 
Robson,  Arthur  Browning. 

Thirty-three  candidates  were  received  on  trial 

Book  Steivard — Rev.  Anson  Green,  D.D. 

Editor — Rev.  Wellington  Jeffers. 

Members — Total,   53,634;   increase,    1,965. 

Superannuation  Fund   $6,615.32 

Contingent  Fund    5,476.86 

Chapel  Relief   1,459.89 

152 


THE   PRINCE   OF   WALES   AND   METHODISM 

The  services  of  the  Special  Committee  on  the  Uni- 
versity Question  were  acknowledged,  and  resolutions 
adopted  in  reference  to  Victoria  College,  with  a  view  to 
enlisting  the  efforts  of  ministers  and  people. 

Addresses  were  received  from  the  Conferences  of 
England  and  Eastern  British  America,  and  replied  to. 

A  memorial  was  presented  from  the  Official  Board,  of 
Great  St.  James'  Street  Church,  Montreal,  in  opposition 
to  the  wearing  of  the  gown  in  their  pulpit. 

The  Conference  resolved: 

'  That  the  practice  of  wearing  the  gown  by  our  min- 
isters, being  contrary  to  the  generally  established  usages 
of  our  Church  in  Canada,  repugnant  to  the  feelings  of  a 
great  majority  of  our  ministers  and  people,  and  calcu- 
lated to  foster  unnecessary  jealousies  and  divisions  in  our 
Church,  this  Conference  disapproves  of  the  introduction 
of  such  practice  into  any  of  our  churches.' 

The  Conference  had  no  desire  to  enter  into  the  contro- 
versy between  the  Trustee  and  Quarterly  Boards  of  the 
St.  James'  St.  Church,  and  expected  that  this  pronounce- 
ment would  suffice  to  cause  the  removal  of  the  gown. 

Resolved,  '  That  the  subject  of  the  division  of  this 
Conference  into  two  or  more  Annual  Conferences  be 
referred  to  the  Conference  Special  Committee,  to  report 
next  Conference.' 

A  deputation  from  Hamilton — Edward  Jackson  and 
Joseph  Lister,  Esqs. — presented  a  proposition  regarding 
the  purchase  oi  the  Anglo-American  Hotel  for  the  pur- 
pose of  a  Young  Ladies'.  Educational  Institution. 

The  Conference  approved  the  project. 

The  Revs.  Dr.  Hoole  and  James  Spencer  were  ap- 
pointed Delegates  to  the  English  Conference. 

On  motion,  the  manuscript  of  the  Rev.  G.  F.  Playter's 
History  of  Methodism  in  Canada,  Vol.  I.,  was  referred 
to  the  Book  Committee  for  their  judgment  as  to  its 
publication. 

Soon   after  Conference,   camp-meetings   were  held  at 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

L'Orignal,  Perth,  North  Gower,  Cartwright,  Millbrook, 
Barrie,  Brampton,  Caledon,  Peel,  Howick,  St.  George, 
Sault  Ste.  Marie,  etc. 

The  Conference  of  the  Eastern  Provinces,  held  in 
Fredericton,  reported  15,167  members,  an  increase  of 
351.  Ten  probationers  were  admitted  to  full  connection. 
Two  ministers  had  died — William  Croscombe  and  Rich- 
ard Knight,  D.D. 

The  reports  from  Mt.  Albion  Academy  indicated  en- 
couraging success. 

The  Prince  of  Wales  arrived  at  St.  John,  N.B.,  on 
the  23rd  of  July,  and  was  received  with  great  enthu- 
siasm. A  Newfoundland  dog,  with  a  massive  silver  col- 
lar suitably  inscribed,  was  presented  to  the  Prince. 

The  new  Editor  of  the  Christian  Guardian,  in  a  two- 
column  editorial,  replying  to  attacks  upon  the  Confer- 
ence by  the  Montreal  IVitncss  and  its  correspondents, 
indicates  the  directness  and  force  of  a  trained  contro- 
versialist. After  a  few  references  to  the  intolerance  of 
Congregationalism  under  Cromwell,  and  its  assumption 
of  exclusive  authority  in  New  England  under  the  Puritan 
Commonwealth,  the  Editor  proceeds : 

'  The  Montreal  IVitncss  having  obtained  admittance 
into  many  a  Wesleyan  family,  under  the  most  plausible 
and  liberal  professions,  has  lost  no  opportunity  in  striv- 
ing to  injure  Methodisrh  by  coining  or  inserting  direct 
or  indirect  attacks  upon  the  polity,  the  Conference,  the 
constitution,  or  ministers  of  the  Church.  .  .  .  Meth- 
odists have  been  the  pioneers  of  equal  civil  and  religious 
rights  in  Upper  Canada;  and  upon  no  other  ground  have 
they  proceeded  or  do  they  stand  on  the  University  Ques- 
tion. Yet  the  Montreal  Witness  has  asserted  the  reverse 
in  every  form,  and  employed  all  sorts  of  insinuations 
and  innuendoes;  has  inserted  all  kinds  of  extracts  and 
communications,  impugning  the  motives  as  well  as  the 
proceedings  of  Wesleyan  ministers  in  their  efforts  to 
obtain  a  truly  Provincial  University,  including  all  the 
colleges  of  the  country,  and  based  upon  the  principle  of 

154 


THE   PRINCE   OF   WALES   AND   METHODISM 

equal  rights  to  all  the  colleges.  But  the  secret  of  these 
imputations  by  the  IVitness  and  the  pretended  non-sec- 
tarian zeal  for  the  Toronto  monopoly,  is  that  Congrega- 
tionalism itself  is  reaping  a  golden  harvest  from  that 
monopoly.  The  Rev.  Mr.  Marling  and  Dr.  Lillie  do  not 
even  notice  the  answers  given  their  arguments  by  Dr. 
Ryerson,  but  repeat  them  as  if  they  had  never  been 
answered.  The  IVitness  has  not  published  a  line  of  the 
speeches  delivered  in  defence  of  the  Wesleyan  Church, 
and  yet  modestly  wishes  us  to  lay  before  our  readers  the 
speeches  of  Mr.  Marling  and  Dr.  Lillie.' 

Dr.  Lillie,  in  a  two-column  reply,  which  The  Guardian 
published,  curtly  inquires : 

"Who,  sir,  are  you,  or,  who  is  the  Methodist  Confer- 
ence, that  your  permission  or  theirs  should  be  an  essen- 
tial preliminary  to  men's  speaking  their  minds  on  any 
question  they  may  regard  as  involving  the  public  interest? 
What  I  feel  it  my  duty  to  say  I  will  say." 

To  which  the  Editor  replies : 

'  Not  one  word  did  we  say  that  could  be  tortured 
into  questioning  the  liberty  or  right  of  Dr.  Lillie  and 
Mr.  Marling  to  make  speeches  on  the  University  Ques- 
tion, or  the  Witness  to  publish  them.  The  whole  para- 
graph insultingly  implies  what  is  contrary  to  fact, 
without  the  manliness  of  stating  it.' 

After  taking  up  all  the  points  in  Dr.  Lillie's  letter,  the 
Editor  thus  concludes : 

"  We  have  now  waded  through  the  twenty-three  para- 
graphs of  Dr.  Lillie's  letter,  and  we  may  appeal  to  the 
reader  whether  it  contains  a  single  fact  or  argument  on 
the  University  Question ;  whether  it  is  anything  more 
than  a  very  long  and  discourteous  scold,  interspersed 
with  imputations  of  both  our  motives  and  acts." 

It  is  not  desirable,  at  this  day,  to  give  further  samples 
of  the  speeches  and  writings  entering  into  the  con- 
troversy which  raged  around  L'niversity  matters  half 
a  century  ago.  Earnest  work  was  required  to  break  up 
monopoly  and  insure  equal  rights  to  all.  Editors  and 
writers   soon    found    it   advisable    to   be   wary    of   their 

155 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

attacks  upon  The  Guardian  or  the  constituency  it  repre- 
sents. It  is  satisfactory  to  know  that  these  discussions, 
though  sharp  and  exciting,  prepared  the  way  for  more 
equitable  arrangements  and  affiliation  of  the  colleges. 

Dr.  Charles  Freshman,  the  Jewish  Rabbi,  of  Quebec, 
having  been  received  into  the  Methodist  Church,  was 
appointed  to  labor  among  the  Jews  and  other  foreigners 
in  Hamilton. 

The  Rev.  James  Spencer  worthily  represented  Can- 
adian Methodism  before  the  English  Conference : 

'  Our  churches,'  said  he,  '  and  we  think  we  have  a 
right  to  that  name,  being  the  first  there  ' — cheers — '  our 
churches  are  multiplying  at  a  rapid  rate,  and  we  like  to 
have  them  out  of  debt.  We  are  as  loyal  as  Englishmen, 
as  is  shown  by  the  demonstrations  in  honor  of  the  Prince 
of  Wales  in  his  progress  through  our  country.' 

After  a  royal  reception  in  Montreal,  the  Prince 
passed  up  the  Ottawa  River  and  was  met  at  the  mouth 
of  the  Gatineau  by  a  grand  flotilla  of  canoes,  and  escorted 
into  the  City  of  Ottawa,  where  he  laid  the  massive  corner- 
stone of  the  new  Parliament  Buildings.  Amid  banners 
and  bands  of  music,  he  visited  the  Chaudiere  Falls  and 
other  places  of  interest,  witnessed  the  enthusiastic  loyalty 
of  the  people,  then  left  for  Brockville,  Toronto  and  other 
western  points.  Thomas  Buck,  Esq.,  of  Norwood,  writes : 

'  I  was  in  Quebec  and  witnessed  the  reception  given 
the  Prince  of  Wales.  In  Montreal,  also,  I  saw  the  great 
preparations.  But  it  gives  me  pain,  as  it  must  every 
true  Christian,  to  read  of  the  Balls,  and  his  dancing  till 
near  daylight.  How  much  better  to  hear  of  his  giving 
thanks  for  his  safe  arrival.' 

The  views  of  many  were  voiced  by  the  Rev.  H.  Wilk- 
inson : 

'  It  is  impossible  for  the  truly  Christian  portion  of  Her 
Majesty's  subjects  to  close  their  eyes  to  the  special 
prominence  given  to  the  Ball  on  the  programmes  for  the 
reception  of  His  Royal  Highness.  The  praiseworthy 
anxiety  to  render  honor  no  doubt  tends  to  suppress  the 

156 


THE   PRINCE   OF   WALES   AND   METHODISM 

heartfelt  protest  of  tens  of  thousands  to  this  pernicious 
example.' 

In  reference  to  the  Ball  to  be  given  in  New  York,  in 
honor  of  the  Prince  of  Wales,  Horace  Greeley,  in  the 
Tribune,  says: 

'  We  are  concerned  to  see  names  on  the  committee 
which  are  more  familiar  to  the  public  in  connection  with 
Foreign  Missions,  the  Tract  Enterprise,  and  the  Fulton 
St.  prayer-meeting  than  in  association  with  the  frivolities 
of  the  Ballroom.' 

The  Prince's  reply  to  Address  from  the  Conference: 
'Gentlemen, — It  has  been  a  source  of  much  gratifica- 
tion to  me  to  receive  at  various  stages  of  my  progress 
through  this  country  Addresses  from  every  denomina- 
tion of  Christians,  all  equally  kind  in  their  welcome  to 
me,  and  all  equally  loyal  to  the  throne  and  person  of  the 
Queen.  I  see  in  this  fact  the  results  of  that  civil  and 
religious  liberty  which  prevails  in  Canada.  I  trust  that 
amongst  the  blessings  enjoyed  by  this  Province,  where 
religious  equality  is  conceded  to  all,  that  of  religious 
peace  may  not  be  wanting.' 

The  Prince  left  £200  to  be  invested  for  prizes  in  Vic- 
toria College. 

A  voice  from  the  North: 

'  Our  newest  village,  Flesherton,  has  not  yet  been  able 
to  erect  a  building  exclusively  for  worship,  but  on  the 
15th  of  July  the  Rev.  A.  R.  Campbell,  of  Artemesia, 
obtained  the  use  of  a  commodious  room  in  a  hotel,  where 
he  addressed  a  number  of  laborers  employed  on  the 
gravel  roads,  and  residents — a  congregation  of  about 
seventy,  all  comfortably  seated  and  attentive.  Mr.  Fow- 
ler, a  merchant,  brought  a  melodeon,  which  greatly 
helped  the  singing.    We  hope  to  continue  the  services.' 

Among  the  notable  appointments  of  last  Conference 
was  that  of  the  Rev.  George  McDougall  to  Norway 
House.    On  his  way,  Aug.  2nd,  i860,  he  writes: 

'  We  reached  Georgetown,  500  miles  from  Lake  Win- 
nipeg, on  Saturday  evening,  and  received  a  hearty 
welcome.     Our  journey  across  the  plains  was  tedious, 

157 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

mosquitoes  beyond  estimate,  but  our  mercies  have  ex- 
ceeded our  trials.  This  is  truly  a  great  country.  The 
munificence  and  power  oi  the  Creator  is  seen  on  every 
hand;  prairies  almost  boundless,  mighty  rivers,  beautiful 
lakes,  flowers  in  endless  variety — all  speaking  of  God. 
But  the  poor  Indians  are  in  the  utmost  deg'"adation. 
White  men  seldom  venture  west  of  this  unless  in  large 
parties.     You  may  hear  from  us  at  Red  River.' 

Peter  Lawrence,  of  Eglinton,  '  was  born  in  New  Bruns- 
wick in  1788.  In  1810  he  came  westward  and  settled 
in  York  Township.  After  a  few  months,  through  curi- 
osity, he  attended  a  class-meeting  at  6  o'clock  in  the 
morning.  By  the  experiences  of  the  members  and  the 
counsels  of  the  leader,  he  was  so  deeply  impressed  that 
he  resolved,  "  This  people  shall  be  my  people."  At  a 
camp-meeting  he  obtained  peace,  and  for  forty  years 
served  God  and  his  generation  until  in  his  72nd  vear, 
on  the  19th  of  August,   i860,  he  was  called  home.' 

During  September  and  October,  camp-meetings  were 
held  near  Owen  Sound,  Belmont,  Mooretown,  Grimsby, 
Elma,  Warwick,  Goderich,  Guelph,  Ingersoll,  Bob- 
caygeon,  etc. 

Dr.  Parsons  Cook,  senior  Editor  of  the  Boston  Re- 
corder, kept  his  pen  busy  some  years  ago  writing  against 
Methodism.  Recently,  for  the  first  time,  he  attended  a 
camp-meeting  and  learned  some  good  things : 

1.  The  holding  of  the  minds  of  the  people  steadily 
and  continuously  to  divine  truth. 

2.  The  drawing  of  large  assemblies,  where  even  a 
bo'W  at  a  venture  may  pierce  the  joints  of  the  harness, 
and  those  who  came  to  scofif  may  stay  to  pray. 

3.  Coming  for  amusement,  m.any  hear  the  Gospel  who 
may  rarely  hear  it  elsewhere. 

4.  Opportunity  is  given  for  intense  and  continued 
prayer. 

A  four-page  leaflet,  containing  poetic  remembrances  of 
Rev.  Peter  Jones,  was  issued  by  the  Rev.  Jonathan  Scott: 

'  A   beautiful   memento   of   departed   worth    from   as  1 
ardent  a  friend  of  the  Indians  as  Canada  possesses.' 

158 


THE   PRINCE   OF   WALES   AND   METHODISM 

Resolutions  of  Conference  regarding  Victoria  College 
were  laid  before  the  Quarterly  Meetings  and  heartily 
approved.  They  were  willing  to  assume  an  annual  con- 
tribution of  ten  cents  per  member  in  support  of  the 
College. 

The  Eastern  Townships : 

'  That  the  Methodism  of  Canada  East  cannot  be 
charged  with  stagnation  the  minutes  abundantly  show. 
In  what  is  now  the  Stanstead  District,  there  were,  in 
1854,  7  circuits  and  7  ministers;  in  i860,  15  circuits,  20 
ministers  and  2  French  missions.  We  are  persuaded 
that  a  comparison  of  the  whole  Eastern  work  with  other 
portions  of  British  North  America  w\l\  tend  to  the  honor 
of  the  self-sacrificing  men  who  have  carried  it  on  during 
the  last  25  years.' — ^John  Tomkins. 

Elizabeth  Cummer,  wife  oi  Mr.  Edward  Stevenson, 
Aurora,  '  died  Nov.  26th,  i860,  in  the  41st  year  of  her 
age.  Early  in  life  she  was  brought  into  fellowship  with 
God's  people  and  continued  an  earnest  helper  in  every 
good  cause.  She  left  five  children  to  the  care  of  a  loving 
husband,  who  was  a  firm  and  useful  worker  in  the  Church 
until  called  to  follow  her  at  the  ripe  age  of  89  years.' 

The  Rev.  Lachlin  Taylor,  having  twice  visited  Great 
Britain,  also  many  portions  of  Europe  and  Asia,  on  his 
return  greatly  delfghted  large  audiences  with  lectures  on 
his  travels. 

The  missionary  income  for  the  past  year  was  $51,823. 
A  debt  has  been  accumulating  for  some  years,  now 
amounting  to  $11,720. 

A  correspondent,  "  Alpha,"  presents,  in  a  lengthy 
article,  eight  good  reasons  why  the  Primitive  and  Wes- 
leyan  Churches  should  unite. 

On  New  Year's  morning,  1861,  the  annual  muster  of 
Methodist  Sunday  Schools,  in  Montreal,  was  held  in 
Great  St.  James'  St.  Church.  Nearly  a  thousand  scholars 
occupied  the  galleries,  with  parents  and  friends  in  the 

159 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

lower  portion.     The  total  number  of  scholars  is   1,120, 
and  their  missionary  contributions  this  year  $531. 

The  Christian  churches  of  the  world  agreed  to  observe 
the  second  week  of  January,  1861,  in  special  prayer  for 
a  more  abundant  outpouring  of  the  Holy  Spirit. 

The  churches  as  well  as  the  States  of  the  neighboring 
Republic  realize  the  difficulty  that  slavery  is  making. 

In  connection  with  the  Kingston  Missionary  Anni- 
versary, a  Breakfast  was  given  in  behalf  of  the  British 
Columbia  missions.  Among  special  contributions  were  a 
locket  and  chain  from  a  lady  and  a  $50  cheque  from 
Hon.  Jas.  Ferrier. 

At  the  request  of  the  St.  Armand  Quarterly  Meeting, 
the  Rev.  Barnabas  Hitchcock  preached  a  Jubilee  sermon. 
He  was  one  of  the  three  young  men  converted  through 
the  blessing  of  God  upon  a  sermon  preached  in  a  whis- 
pering voice  by  the  Rev.  Hezekiah  Calvin  Wooster,  in 
1798,  as  he  passed  through  the  neighborhood,  going  home 
to  die.  The  other  two  were  Rev.  Thomas  Best  and  Mr. 
George  Wilson. 

A  prophetic  note  was  struck  by  the  Rev.  Wm.  Ames, 
Feb.  8th,  1861 : 

"  If  all  are  truly  anxious  for  the  glory  of  God,  as  we 
hope  they  are,  and  if  it  appear  that  His  glory  can  be 
more  fully  advanced  by  union  than  by  disunion,  surely 
we  may  hope  that  He  whose  glory  we  seek  will  impart 
the  wisdom  necessary  to  bring  about  so  desirable  a  con- 
summation." 

From  the  pleasant  little  vil'lage  of  Westmeath,  in  the 
Upper  Ottawa  region,  the  Rev.  Wm.  Tomblin  tells  of 
revivals  and  the  successful  labors  of  a  German  and 
French  missionary  in  Ottawa,  Renfrew,  Pembroke  and 
other  parts,  where  needy  German  settlements  were 
found. 
Victoria  County : 

'  This  county  has  settlers  from  the  lands  of  the  Sham- 
rock, the  Rose,  and  the  Thistle,  with  a  few  native-born 

160 


THE   PRINCE   OF   WALES   AND   METHODISM 

Canadians.  Beautiful  lakes,  towering  hills  and  fertile 
valleys  make  the  northern  parts  romantic.  Lindsay,  our 
prospective  County  Tovi^n,  vi^ith  a  population  of  2,000, 
had,  a  few  years  ago,  only  two  or  three  stores  and  as 
many  taverns.  Bobcaygeon  is  a  thrifty  village,  with 
about  250  inhabitants,  24  miles  from  Lindsay,  the  centre 
of  a  large  lumbering  district.  Three  steamboats  ply 
between  Lindsay,  Bobcaygeon  and  Peterborough.  The 
religious  condition  of  the  people  is  not  less  than  a  hun- 
dred per  cent,  better  than  it  was  two  years  ago.  At  that 
time  the  Rev.  John  A,  Dowler  had  41  members  and  60 
on  trial ;  last  year  we  had  100  members  and  75  on  trial. 
Without  house  or  home,  he  took  up  his  abode  in  a 
tavern.  Now  he  has  a  comfortable  parsonage,  and  not 
more  than  $50  debt.  They  had  no  churches ;  now  they 
have  two  and  subscriptions  to  warrant  the  building  of 
one  in  Bobcaygeon  and  another  at  Fenelon  Falls.  Mis- 
sionary givings  are  also  a  hundred  per  cent,  in  advance. 
We  know  of  no  place  where  the  Missionary  Society  is 
so  speedily  receiving  such  a  return.  It  is  the  glory  of 
our  missionaries  to  follow  the  woodman's  axe;  may  this 
glory  never  depart.  This  county  has  been  a  terror  to 
some  of  our  young  men,  but  Wm.  Galbraith,  in  his  first 
year,  is  not  afraid  to  face  the  music' — D.  C.  Clappison. 

Wellesley  Mission,  March  4th,  1861 : 

'  The  year  thus  far  has  been  one  of  great  toil.  We  have 
taken  up  four  new  appointments,  and  in  four  classes 
have  about  sixty  persons,  newly  found  in  God,  who 
promise  to  do  well.  Three  churches  have  been  erected 
and  dedicated  since  Conference,  and  there  is  not  more 
than  about  $50  debt  on  the  three.  We  expect  to  raise 
more  missionary  money  than  last  year.' 

Bath  Circuit,  March,  1861 : 

'  To  the  industry  and  perseverance  of  Bro  Michael 
Fawcett,  we  are  indebted  for  the  church  in  Bath ;  to  Bro. 
Beynon  for  the  comfortable  parsonage,  and  to  Bro. 
Clappison  for  freedom  from  financial  embarrassment. 
In  improving  the  interior  of  the  church  and  furnishing 
the  parsonage,  the  Ladies'  Aid  has  expended  over  $250. 
For  our  missionary  meetings  the  churches  and  school- 
houses  were  tastefully  decorated  and  the  income  is  likely 

II  161 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

to  be  in  advance.  Our  college  money  was  raised  through 
a  lecture  by  the  Rev.  Wm.  Stephenson  on  "  Past,  Present 
and  Future,"  a  magnificent  lecture.  We  have  received 
62  on  trial.' — ^J.  Herbert  Starr. 

Kincardine  and  Bruce  Mission — Rev.  J.  F.  Latimer 
and  Geo.  H.  Cornish.  The  field  large ;  ten  appointments 
in  four  townships.  Roads  bad  and  people  scattered.  The 
Lord  has  blessed  the  united  labors  of  His  servants.  Souls 
have  been  saved  and  believers  have  been  strengthened. 
We  report  an  increase  of  seventy  to  our  membership. 
Every  Circuit  and  Mission  on  the  District  reports  having 
had  a  good  year  and  consequent  increase  in  members. 

The  examinations  and  Convocation  of  Victoria  College 
in  May,  1861,  were  of  unusual  interest  and  afforded  the 
highest  satisfaction,  both  as  to  the  number  of  students 
and  the  work  accomplished.  The  President.  Rev.  S.  S. 
Nelles,  M.A.,  recently  honored  by  Queen's  College  with 
the  degree  of  Doctor  of  Divinity,  on  behalf  of  the  Senate 
of  Victoria,  had  the  high  privilege  of  conferring  the 
degree  of  Doctor  of  Laws  and  Literature  on  the  Rev. 
Egerton  Ryerson. 

World-wide  Methodism  hears  with  regret  of  the  death 
of  Thomas  Farmer,  Esq.,  for  many  years  Lay  Treasurer 
of  the  Wesleyan  Missionary  Society,  London,  England, 
a  man  of  noble  Christian  character,  whose  contribution 
to  b/enevolent  and  religious  enterprises  reached  £10,000  a 


162 


1.  Wakefield.  John,  D.I). 
4.  Jackson,  Mr.  Edward 
7.  Edgar,  James,  M.D 


2.  \au,\,  Mr.  Thomas 
5.  Mrs.  Edward  Jackson 
8.  Wilson,  Rev.  John  C. 


3.  Cochran   Geoige,  D.P 
6.  Massey,  Mr.  Hart 
9.  Pirritte,  Wm..  D.D. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


THE  FIELD  AND  THE  WORKMEN. 

Conference,  Brantford — Edmonton — Fire — Eastern  Conference — 
Ruston — Rocky  ^Mountains — Woolsey — Female  College — ^Car- 
roll — Population — Browning — Slater — Rolling  Sands  —  Jack- 
son— Quebec — Kingston — Plater — Bangs  —  Conference,  1862, 
Belleville —  Globe  — -Wesley  —  Gowns — Lucas — Wilkinson — 
Stinson — Woolsey — McDougall. 

The  Conference  of  1861  was  held  in  Brantford,  com- 
mencing on  the  5th  of  June. 

President,  Rev.  Joseph  Stinson.  D.D. ;  Secretary,  Rev. 
John  Gemley. 

Into  full  connection — Wm.  Irwin,  George  Browne, 
Daniel  Connolly,  John  Scott,  Richard  Potter,  Samuel  C. 
Philp,  Jr.,  Isaac  Baker,  James  Broley,  Christopher  Ham- 
ilton, Wm.  M.  Cooley,  Joseph  Kilgour,  James  Kennedy, 
Isaac  B.  Tallman,  Hall  Christopherson,  Robert  Smith, 
Th.  A.  Ferguson,  Hugh  McLean,  John  Potts,  Wm.  E. 
Walker,  Edwin  Fessant,  Alexander  Langford,  Th.  W. 
Jeffrey,  Robert  Mark,  Wm.  W.  Ross,  Peter  Campbell, 
Archelaus  Doxee,  James  Thorneloe  and  Oliver  E-  Burch. 

Twenty-six  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — ^Cornelius  Flummerfelt,  February  loth,  1861,  aged 
y2  years. 
Robert  Hobbs,  February,  1861,  aged  31  years. 
Thomas   Drake,   Jr.,   April   30th,    1861,    aged   23 
years. 

Book  Stezvard — Anson  Green,  D.D. 

Editor — Wellington  Jefifers. 

Agent    for    Cpnnexional   Funds — Thomas    Demorest. 

Representative  to  the  English  Conference — George  R. 
Sanderson. 

Representatives  to  the  Eastern  Conference  —  The 
President,  the  Co-Delegate,  S.  S.  Nelles,  D.D.,  and  John 
Gemley. 

163 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

At  the  request  of  the  people  of  Brantford  Dr.  Ryerson 
gave  a  lecture  on  Education. 

'  It  was  an  address  of  extraordinary  clearness  and 
carried  conviction,  we  verily  believe,  to  every  hearer.' 

A  full  report  of  Victoria  College  was  presented.  To- 
wards its  support  a  contribution,  averaging  ten  cents  a 
member,  is  expected  from  the  circuits. 

The  Committee  on  the  Division  of  Conference  advised 
a  division  into  four  Conferences.  After  discussion  the 
matter  was  deferred. 

The  appointment  of  Rev.  Dr.  Stinson  as  President, 
Rev.  Enoch  Wood  as  Superintendent  of  Missions,  and 
Rev.  James  Musgrove  as  Co-Delegate  was  requested. 

The  number  of  ministers  to  attend  the  next  Confer- 
ence was  limited  to  200,  in  addition  to  officers  of  Confer- 
ence and  candidates  for  ordination. 

The  Conference  of  the  Eastern  Provinces  met  in  St. 
John,  N.B.,  June  26th,  1861,  Nine  young  men  were  re- 
ceived into  full  connection  and  fifteen  on  trial.  Two 
ministers  had  died — Charles  Gaskin  and  Thomas  Gaetz. 
The  deputation  from  the  Canada  Conference  was  intro- 
duced. The  Revs.  J.  Snowball,  Ch.  Churchill,  A.M.,  and 
J.  Allison,  M.A.,  were  appointed  Delegates  to  the  next 
Canada  Conference. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Pickard  was  requested  as  President  for 
next  year  and  the  Rev.  Ch.  De  Wolfe  as  Co-Delegate. 

During  the  early  summer  camp-meetings  were  held  on 
the  St.  Vincent,  Goderich,  Cartwright,  Cobourg,  Peel, 
Wolford,  Ebenezer,  Brock,  Howick  and  other  circuits. 

The  Education  Question  was  still  before  the  country, 
and  some  papers  continued  their  opposition  to  the  action 
of  the  Conference. 

'  With  a  disingenuous  perverseness  the  advocates  of 
monopoly  persist  in  saying  that  we  wish  the  destruction 
of  Toronto  University.    There  is  no  truth  in  the  charge ; 

164 


THE   FIELD   AND   THE   WORKMEN 

we  have  said  all  along  let  the  Toronto  Institution  be  sus- 
tained. We  demand  impartial  treatment  of  all  the  col- 
leges, and  no  honest  man  will  gainsay  or  oppose  our  posi- 
tion. Let  our  opponents  state  our  position  honestly,  then 
meet  it  with  honest  arguments.  They  have  never  done 
so.' — Guardian. 

The  Rev.  S.  C.  Philp  and  family  were  scarcely  settled 
in  Lindsay  when  nearly  the  whole  town  was  swept  by 
fire.    The  loss  is  estimated  at  $800,000. 

Mary  Charlotte  Ruston  '  was  born  in  1821,  near  Odell- 
town,  C.E.,  whither  her  father  and  family  had  come  from 
Hull,  England,  in  1820.  For  educational  advantages 
Mary  spent  several  years  with  Mrs.  Latham,  in  Quebec 
and  Montreal.  At  the  age  of  sixteen,  under  the  ministry 
of  Rev.  Dr.  Harvard,  in  Quebec,  she  was  led  into  the 
clear  experience  of  saving  grace,  and  was  thenceforth  a 
sincere  member  of  the  Methodist  Church.  As  the  wife  of 
the  Rev.  R.  A.  Flanders,  with  cheerful  fortitude  she 
shared  the  trials  incident  to  the  itinerancy ;  a  wise  coun- 
sellor, a  faithful  friend,  a  loving  mother,  leading  her 
children  early  into  the  beauties  of  religion,  and  taking  a 
lively  interest  in  the  work  of  every  circuit.  After  anxi- 
ous watching  with  her  children,  during  sickness,  the  toil 
of  moving  proved  too  great ;  she  became  seriously  ill, 
and  on  the  25th  of  July,  1862,  her  spirit  took  its  flight 
to  the  land  of  rest.    She  was  41  years  of  age.' — R.  A.  F. 

Rev.  Geo.  McDougall,  writing  from  Grand  Rapids, 
July  23rd,  1861,  told  of  three  deputations  coming  from 
east  of  the  Rocky  Mountains  seeking  a  missionary. 

'  Can  we  not  do  more  for  the  thousands  of  Indians 
near  Edmonton?  From  500  of  the  Stoneys  comes  the 
cry  for  a  missionary.  Through  Rundell  and  Woolsey 
many  of  them  embraced  Christianity.  We  want  a  prac- 
tical missionary  for  this  important  field.  Chief  Factor 
Christy  offers  assistance.' 

The  Rev.  Edward  White  reports  the  destruction  of  the 
new  steamer  Cariboo,  shortly  after  leaving  Victoria, 
causing  the  death  of  the  captain,  the  mate  and  several 
others. 

165 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  Rev.  Th.  Woolsey,  after  six  years'  labor  among 
the  tribes  of  the  Saskatchewan,  made  the  journey  of 
about  a  thousand  miles  to  Red  River.  He  arrived  in 
July  and  was  hospitably  entertained  by  the  Rev.  John 
Black  in  the  Presbyterian  manse.  Some  of  Mr.  Black's 
people  kindly  assisted  Mr.  Woolsey  in  gathering  supplies 
of  wheat,  flour,  cattle,  implements,  etc.  The  Anglican 
Bishop  of  Rupert's  Land  also  extended  special  cour- 
tesies to  the  Methodist  missionary  during  his  two  weeks' 
stay.  On  the  17th  of  July  Mr.  Woolsey  set  out  on  his 
return  with  nine  well-ladened  carts  and  four  men,  be- 
sides other  carts  and  parties.  On  the  way  they  were 
overtaken  by  a  brigade  of  the  H.  B.  Co.,  which  was  for- 
tunate, as  the  country  was  in  a  disturbed  state. 

The  Wesleyan  Female  College,  Hamilton,  was  opened 
to  students  on  the  24th  of  September,  1861,  with 
Miss  Adams  as  Lady  Principal,  a  full  staff  of  teachers, 
and  Rev.  Richard  Jones  as  Governor.  At  a  public  meet- 
ing in  the  evening  the  Rev.  S.  D.  Rice  reported  the  pur- 
chase of  the  buildings  for  $35,000 — about  one-third  of 
the  original  cost.  Addreses  were  delivered  by  the  Rev. 
Drs.  Stinson,  Nelles,  Willis  and  others,  who  congratu- 
lated the  promoters  on  the  excellent  provision  made  for 
female  education,  and  expressing  the  highest  hopes  for 
the  success  of  the  institution  provided  through  the  lib- 
erality of  its  originators,  who  were  chiefly  gentlemen  of 
Hamilton,  assisted  by  all  who  became  stockholders. 

During  September  and  October  camp-meetings  were 
held  on  Wawanosh,  Stratford,  Smith,  Saugeen,  Glan- 
ford,  Berlin,  Norwich  and  other  circuits. 

At  a  breakfast  given  in  the  Richmond  Street  Church. 
Toronto,  the  Rev.  John  Carroll  said : 

'  I  remember  vv'hen  the  square  on  which  this  church  is 
built  was  enclosed  with  high  cedar  pickets,  protecting  an 
orchard  and  meadow,  where  these  hands  were  often  em- 
ployed ;  and  on  this  very  spot  I  knelt  seeking  mercy.    The 

166 


THE   FIELD   AND   THE   WORKMEN 

first  missionary  meeting  in  York  consisted  chiefly  of  the 
exhibition  of  a  few  Indian  children  from  the  Credit.'    , 

Richard  Woodsworth,  Robt.  Kenny,  of  Aylmer,  C.E., 
Dr.  Beatty,  of  Cobourg,  and  many  others  spoke.  At  the 
public  meeting  in  the  evening  Revs.  Kennedy  Creighton, 
John  A.  Williams,  George  Douglas  and  Dr.  Stinson  gave 
addresses.  The  Missionary  income  was  $48,652,  an  in- 
crease of  over  $6,000. 

By  a  committee  appointed  at  the  Conference  of  i860 
a  monthly  magazine,  the  "  Wesleyan  Repository  and  "Lit- 
erary Record"  was  issued.  At  the  last  Conference  it 
was  proposed  to  change  the  title  to  "  Wesleyan  Magazine 
of  Canada,"  under  the  editorial  supervision  of  Rev.  Jas. 
Spencer. 

In  November,  1861,  a  "  Young  Men's  Christian  Asso- 
ciation "  was  organized  in  Woodstock,  in  connection 
with  the  Methodist  Church,  under  the  pastoral  oversight 
of  the  Rev.  Wm.  Stephenson.  About  $100  v.-as  sub- 
scribed towards  a  library,  and  arrangements  were  made 
for  monthly  lectures,   etc. 

Census  of  Canada,  1861 : 

Population  of  Upper  Canada .2,506,755 

Population  of  Lower  Canada. 1,396,091 

Roman  Catholics 1,200,865 

Church  of  England   374^887 

Methodists 372,'i54 

Presbyterians 347^991 

Baptists 69,310 

Lutherans ^5,156 

Congregationalists .   14^284 

Bible  Christians .-.        8,084 

As -the  Bible  Christians  are  really  Methodists,  they 
might  well  be  numbered  with  them,  making  380,179. 

In  Upper  Canada — Methodists. 341,572 

Church  of  England. 311,565 

Presbyterians 303^384 

Roman  Catholics.   .......    258,141 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Fort  Hope,  B.C.,  November  loth,  1861 : 

'  For  days  I  was  reported  drowned  in  the  treacherous 
Fraser.  We  were  caught  in  a  hurricane — but  I  hope  soon 
to  see  my  friends.  Our  church  in  Yale  will  be  finished 
with  little  debt,  though  lumber  is  $40  a  thousand  and 
other  things  in  proportion.  We  have  but  one  Methodist, 
but  Catholics,  Jews  and  Chinese  are  helping.  A  fortu- 
nate miner  gives  us  $100.' — A.  Browning. 

The  Rev.  J.  C.  Slater,  Barrie,  writes  of  a  missionary 
trip: 

'  On  Saturday,  February  5th,  1862,  I  left  with  our 
Chairman,  Rev.  K.  Creighton,  for  Penetanguishene — 
Rolling  Sands,  from  the  crumbling  of  the  sandy  points. 
Winding  among  the  trees  of  the  forest  we  found  the 
road  so  good  one  might  think  it  a  gravel  road  leading  to 
a  city,  instead  of  to  the  "  Ultima  Thule  "  of  the  County 
of  Simcoe.  With  good  sleighing,  amid  the  varied  scenery 
of  hills  and  valleys,  rivers  and  lakes,  we  were  soon  at  the 
clean  and  comfortable  Half-way  House.  Much  of  the 
land  is  sandy  and  the  settlements  few.  Toward  evening 
we  arrived  at  the  home  of  Mr.  Jeffrey,  merchant,  from 
whom  and  his  excellent  family  we  received  a  most  cor- 
dial welcome.  Though  not  a  member  of  our  church,  he 
is  a  very  generous  supporter.  The  population  i?  chiefly 
French  and  half-breeds.  The  language,  one-horse  sleds, 
etc.,  remind  us  of  the  habitants  of  La  Bas  Canada.  Quite 
an  amount  of  business  is  done  here  in  Indian  trading. 
One  house  is  said  to  have  collected  $20,000  worth  of 
furs  in  a  season.  There  are  three  churches — French 
Catholic,  Episcopal  and  Methodist.  Our  congregations 
were  small,  but  we  did  our  best.  The  Monday  meeting 
was  a  success.  C.  Smeath,  Esq.,  was  called  to  "the  chair ; 
Bro.  McNamara  read  the  report ;  Mr.  Patterson,  a  great 
traveller  and  warm  friend  of  missions,  gave  a  good 
speech  and  was  followed  by  the  deputation.  Miss  Jeffrey 
on  the  melodeon  led  the  choir,  adding  greatly  to  the  in- 
terest. It  seemed  as  though  this  loving  people  had  given 
up  all  ordinary  work  for  a  missionary  jubilee.  Our 
return  was  as  pleasant  as  our  going  out,  and  we  shall 
retain  pleasant  memories  of  our  visit  to  the  city  of  the 
Rolling  Sands.' 

168 


THE   FIELD   AND   THE   WORKMEN 

Daniel  V.  Lucas,  a  student  at  Victoria  College,  having 
volunteered  for  mission  work  in  British  Columbia,  was 
ordained  in  Yorkville  February  2nd,  1862,  and  left  on 
the  following  Thursday. 

Owen  Sound  District,  by  the  Chairman : 

*  On  St.  Vincent  Mission  a  comfortable  new  parson- 
age, good  missionary  meetings  and  many  accessions.  A 
new  church  needed  in  Meaford.  Great  prosperity  on  Mt. 
Forest  mission.  Arthur  village  the  scene  of  many  con- 
versions;  missionary  meeting  of  great  interest;  good 
singing,  aided  by  an  old  English  shipbuilder.  In  Durham 
a  new  church,  regular  services  and  good  Sundav  School. 
Arran  the  most  promising  field  in  the  District.  Inver- 
may — a  good  parsonage  and  fine  brick  church  opened 
February  9th,  1862.  Hanover — successful  missionary 
and  tea  meetings,  parsonage  relieved  of  debt.  Southamp- 
ton— good  Quarterly  meeting,  some  conversions,  parson- 
age needed.  Owen  Sound  is  one  of  our  most  desirable 
appointments.' — ^J.  A.  W. 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hutchinson  Jackson  were  in  Southamp- 
ton in  1854.  The  first  little  church  was  made  into  a 
dwelling  house — still  standing.  Andrew  Graham,  James 
Turner,  John  Belshar  and  his  wife — Miss  Grafton,  of 
Dundas — were  among  the  earliest  Methodists  in  the 
place. 

Quebec  District — 

'  On  Eaton  Circuit  congregations  increased  and  new 
members  received ;  a  new  church  being  built  in  Cook- 
shire;  missionary  meetings  successful.  New  ministers 
on  the  District — Scott,  Fessant,  Evans,  Derrick,  Peake, 
McDonagh — are  awakening  new  life.' — R.  B. 

Stanstead  District — 

'  Attended  19  missionary  meetings  in  Potton,  Bolton, 
Georgeville,  and  Dunham;  subscriptions  well  in  advance. 
The  Granby  church  is  repaired.' — E.  S.   Ingalls. 

The  city  of  Kingston  enjoyed  a  succession  of  encour- 
aging events:  the  successful  revival  labors  of  Rev.  Wm. 
Taylor,  California,  in  the  early  autumn;  a  visit  and  lec- 
ture  from   the   editor   of   the    Guardian   in   the   interest 

169 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

of  Wesley  Hall  and  the  Young  People's  Movement,  and 
a  presentation  to  Aliss  Butler,  organist;  missionary  ser- 
mons by  Rev.  John  Gemley  of  Quebec ;  sermons  by  Rev. 
George  Douglas  at  Sydenham  St.  Church  anniversary. 

Playter's  History  of  Methodism — 

*  This  work  will  be  found  exceedingly  entertaining  and 
instructive.  We  did  not  expect  so  full  an  exhibit  from 
the  scattered  materials  available.  We  would  not  be  with- 
out it  for  five  times  its  price.' — Guardian. 

It  was  a  volume  of  420  pages,  price  $1.25,  and  an 
edition  of  4,000  was  published.  Not  many  may  know 
the  labor  involved  in  collecting,  investigating  and  select- 
ing materials  for  such  a  history.  The  present  writer  and 
the  Methodist  Church  owe  a  debt  of  gratitude  to  the 
patient  toiler  for  collecting  and  preserving  these  early 
records  of  our  church. 

The  Rev.  Nathan  Bangs,  D.D.,  died  in  New  York  on 
the  3rd  of  May,  1862,  at  the  age  of  84  years.  His  early 
ministry  in  Canada  was  the  beginning  of  a  career  of 
great  usefulness  in  a  wider  sphere,  in  which  his  ability, 
firmness  and  gentleness  of  disposition  won  general 
esteem  and  affection. 

Cookstown,  advanced  from  a  mission  to  a  circuit,  re- 
ports an  increase  of  members  from  267  to  360;  two  minis- 
ters well  supported,  three  new  churches  built,  a  site 
secured  for  another  and  a  parsonage,  and  good  increase- 
in  missionary  money.  A  proposal  to  sanction  the  run- 
ning of  street  cars  on  Sunday  in  Toronto  was  refused  by 
the  unanimous  vote  of  the  City  Council  on  the  9th  of 
June,  1862. 

"  At  the  Convocation  of  Victoria  College  Air.  John  J. 
McLaren,  of  Hinchinbrook,  received  the  degree  of  B.A. 
and  also  the  Prince  of  Wales  Gold  Medal  for  1862." — 
Huntingdon  Journal. 

The  Conference  of  1862  met  in  Belleville  on  the  4th 
of  June,  the  Co-Delegate,  Rev.  Henry  Wilkinson,  in  the 
chair.      Owing   to   the   serious    illness    of   the   Rev.    Dr, 

170 


THE   FIELD   AND   THE  WORKMEN 

Stinson  it  was  considered  expedient  and  legal  to  elect  a 
President.  The  Rev.  Enoch  Wood  was  elected,  the  Rev. 
James  Musgrove  being  Co-Delegate.  The  Rev.  Wm. 
Scott  was  re-elected  Secretary.  The  delegation  from  the 
Eastern  Conference,  Rev.  Charles  Churchill,  M.A.,  and 
Rev.  John  Allison,  were  introduced.  They  bore  clear 
testimony  to  the  success  of  the  Union. 

Into  full  connection — ^Wm.  Hall,  B.A.,  Shem  Blan- 
shard,  Wm.  Hayhurst,  Wm.  J.  Hewitt,  James  Anderson, 
Phineas  D.  Will,  John  Sanderson,  Elias  W.  Frazee, 
Thomas  Bell,  Geo.  H.  Cornish,  Henry  F.  Bland,  Joseph 
A.  Dorion,  John  Salmon,  B.A.,  James  Alex.  Gordon, 
David  Ryan,  Th.  Brock,  Robt.  Thompson,  Th.  Feather, 
Edward  Harris,  Benj.  Sherlock,  Wm.  Sheridan,  Samuel 
Jackson,  Wm.  H.  Peake,  Samuel  Teeson,  George  Sten- 
ning. 

Thirty-three  young  men  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — John  Goodfellow.  July  22nd,  1861,  aged  43  years. 
Samuel  Belton,  October  6th,  186 1,  aged  71  years. 
William  Williams.  November  19th,  1861,  aged  32 

years. 
George  Jones,  May  20th,  1862,  aged  28  years. 

Total  number  of  members  54,405,  increase  841. 

The  Book  Steward  and  the  Editor  were  re-elected. 
The  Rev.  Dr.  Green  was  nominated  for  President  next 
year,  the  Rev.  John  Carroll  for  Co-Delegate  and  the 
Rev.  Enoch  Wood,  D.D.,  as  Superintendent  of  Missions. 
The  Rev.  A.  Hurlburt  gave  an  account  of  his  reception 
by  the  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church ;  an  address  from  that  Conference  was  read,  also 
one  from  the  English  Conference. 

In  reference  to  the  erection  of  a  French  Methodist 
Church  in  Quebec,  the  report  of  the  committee  was 
adopted,  committing  the  oversight  of  the  French  work 
to  a  mixed  committee. 

The  Rev.  William  Arthur,  M.A.,  and  John  Douse 
were  appointed  Representatives  to  the  English  Confer- 
ence. Quebec  was  chosen  as  the  next  place  of  meeting. 
Conference  closed  on  Friday. 

171 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

At  the  closing  of  Hamilton  Female  College  several 
excellent  essays  were  read,  interspersed  with  vocal  and 
instrumental  music.  A  presentation  was  made  to  Miss 
Adams,  the  Principal,  amid  general  congratulations  on 
the  success  of  the  first  year. 

The  Globe  of  June  28th  inquires : 

"  Will  no  friendly  correspondent  give  us  a  hint  as  to 
what  went  on  with  closed  doors  at  the  Belleville  Wes- 
leyan  Conference  on  the  subject  of  the  Common  School 
and  University  Question  ?  " 

The  editor  of  the  Guardian  replies : 

'  If  the  Globe  will  accept  the  services  of  a  would-be 
friendly  contemporary,  we  beg  to  inform  that  most 
catholic  and  impartial  journal  that  we  are  glad  to  hear  of 
its  anxiety  to  obtain  news  from  the  Wesleyan  Confer- 
ence, as  we  believe  it  is  the  first  intimation  it  has  given 
its  readers  that  any  Wesleyan  Conference  had  been  held. 
We  also  beg  to  say  that  there  were  no  closed  doors  while 
any  general  question  was  considered.  We  had  a  large 
number  of  visitors  most  of  the  time,  and  reports  of  the 
proceedings  appeared  in  the  three  Belleville  papers,  some 
of  which  were  copied  by  several  other  papers.  Very  little 
was  said  and  no  action  taken  on  the  University  Question, 
except  to  appoint  a  committee.  The  ministers  and  mem- 
bers of  the  Wesleyan  Church  are  so  unanimous  and  the 
question  has  taken  such  a  shape  that  they  did  not  consider 
further  action  necessary.  Xo  disrespectful  word  was 
spoken  respecting  any  other  Christian  denomination.' 
■  British  Methodism — Members,  325,262;  on  trial,  24,- 
952.     What  the  Central  Christian  Advocate  says: 

'  Our  Canadian  brethren  are  progressing  nobly  in  their 
work,  and  have  reached  the  Pacific.  In  a  few  years 
they  will  have  several  conferences.  British  America  will 
be  a  great  empire,  friendly  to  the  United  States,  with  a 
powerful  Methodist  confederacy  of  great  efficiency.  It 
has  already  prevented  Church  and  State  alliance  in  Can- 
ada. It  is  promoting  common  and  college  education  with 
success.  The  Christian  Guardian  is  just  and  liberal  to- 
wards this  country.' 

By   the    last    General    Conference    of   the    Methodist 
172 


THE   FIELD   AND   THE   WORKMEN 

Episcopal  Church,  U.S.,  the  advisability  of  admitting 
laymen  to  the  General  Conference  was  submitted  to  the 
Annual  Conferences.  In  24  Conferences,  since  held, 
there  was  a  majority  of  826  ministers  and  2,828  laymen 
against. 

During  the  summer  many  camp-meetings  were 
held,  with  the  usual  blessed  results.  These  meet- 
ings proved  mighty  agencies  in  keeping  before 
the  people  the  doctrine  of  forgiveness  of  sin, 
not  as  a  theory,  but  as  a  conscious  experience, 
attested  by  the  Holy  Spirit.  Before  John  Wesley  under- 
stood this  experience  he  heard  from  the  lips  of  his  dying 
father  this  enlightening  testimony :  "  The  inward  witness, 
son ;  the  inward  witness !  That  is  the  strongest  proof  of 
Christianity."  That  was  on  the  26th  of  April,  1735. 
But  John  Wesley  was  befogged  by  the  delusions  of  mys- 
ticism. His  departure  from  Oxford  effected  providential 
deliverance  from  the  ascetic  self-denials  and  morbid 
humiliations  to  which  he  and  his  chosen  companions  had 
so  long  subjected  themselves.  The  fresh  air  of  a  trans- 
Atlantic  voyage  was  about  to  open  his  eyes  and  his  heart 
to  a  more  robust  and  spiritual  type  of  religion.  Astound- 
ing as  it  must  have  been  to  a  learned  and  self-righteous 
Fellow  of  Lincoln,  the  simple  testimonies  of  rejoicing 
Moravians  were  to  awaken  in  Wesley's  developing  ex- 
perience "  glimpses  of  attainments  in  spiritual  life 
hitherto  unknown  to  him,  and  an  inward  joyful  realiza- 
tion which  should  scatter  the  mystical  subtleties  of 
Thomas  a  Kempis ;  the  keynote  to  an  exultant  song  of 
triumph  which  even  the  sweetly  devotional  Jeremy  Taylor 
had  not  taught  him  to  sing."  His  jubilant  song  of  tri- 
umph, caught  up  by  his  people,  has  given  tone  and  char- 
acter to  the  multitudes  who  crowd  the  ranks  of  Metho- 
dism, flowing  onward  from  generation  to  generation  with 
convincing  sweetness  and  rapture. 

Cultured  and  schooled  in  the  things  of  the  Kingdom  as 

173 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

was  Susannah  Wesley,  she  was  long  held  in  bondage 
under  the  conviction,  '  That  an  absolute  assurance  of  for- 
giveness we  can  never  have  until  we  enter  heaven  ' ;  but 
the  veil  was  taken  away,  and  in  her  emancipation  she 
rejoiced  with  her  son  in  the  clearer  light  and  more  scrip- 
tural experience. 

It  is  matter  for  congratulation  that  in  the  freshness 
and  brightness  of  the  Western  world  we  possess  and 
profess  the  religion  of  the  Lord  Jesus  unclouded  by  mists 
of  seclusion  and  unfettered  by  ritualistic  observances ; 
and  it  should  be  our  care  to  walk  in  "  the  liberty  where- 
with Christ  has  made  us  free."  The  responsibility  is 
upon  us  to  hold  and  to  perpetuate  pure  and  undefiled 
religion,  free  from  the  monkish  observances  and  spec- 
tacular attractions  which  have  too  often  been  substituted 
for  the  Spirit  and  the  power.  The  few  Methodists  who 
show  an  inclination  for  the  wearing  of  gowns  or  sur- 
plices by  ministers  or  choirs  would  do  well  to  remember 
that  it  was  by  just  such  apparently  harmless  innovations 
that  Pusey  and  his  associates,  with  great  professions  of 
piety,  began  the  introduction  of  ritualistic  observances 
and  by  stealthy  manoeuvering  entangled  the  church  in  a 
network  of  sensuous  formalities  from  which  escape  has 
seemed  impossible.  Methodism,  made  and  kept  alive  by 
the  indwelling  Spirit  of  the  living  God,  would  be  weak- 
ened and  its  inherent  freedom  shackled  by  substituting 
outward  and  formal  observances  for  inner  and  spiritual 
life.  Even  though  no  such  substitution  be  intended,  les- 
sons from  other  ages  and  churches  admonish  us  to  be- 
ware of  beginnings  that  forbode  disaster. 

The  building  of  churches  has  marked  the  onward 
march  of  Canadian  Methodism.  Wherever  newcomers 
hew  out  for  themselves  homes  in  the  wilderness,  the  itin- 
erants follow  them  with  the  Gospel  message  and  sanc- 
tuaries are  reared  in  accordance  with  their  hu.mble  cir- 
cumstances.   As  numbers  and  means  increase  better  pro- 

174 


THE   FIELD   AND   THE   WORKMEN 

vision  for  worship  becomes  necessary;  and  the  people 
whose  homes  are  improving  are  not  slow  to  undertake  the 
erection  of  sacred  edifices  in  harmony  with  improving 
conditions.  Among  several  circuits  showing  these  signs 
of  life  and  progress  we  find  Warwick,  Simcoe,  Elora, 
Clinton,  Dundas,  Cayuga,  Brampton,  Albion,  Markham, 
Omemee,  Otonabee,  etc. 

The  Rev.  D.  V.  Lucas  writes  from  Victoria,  B.C.,  June 
3rd,  1862: 

'  With  Bro.  White  and  two  Indians  we  started  for 
Nanaimo  in  an  open  boat  on  the  21st  ult.  We  landed  on 
an  island  in  the  Gulf  of  Georgia;  slept  the  first  night  on 
the  ground,  the  second  in  the  boat,  and  at  noon  the  fol- 
lowing day  reached  the  end  of  our  trip.  The  scenery  re- 
minded us  of  "The  Thousand  Islands,"  but  on  a  much 
grander  scale.  On  Saturday  all  business  was  suspended 
for  boat  racing.  The  canoes  contained  from  8  to  16 
Indians.  When  the  gun  at  the  old  Eort  gave  the  signal 
about  150  paddles  struck  the  water.  No  spirited  Roman 
youth  was  ever  more  anxious  to  outstrip  his  fellows  than 
were  these  Indians.  On  their  return  they  struck  up  a 
song,  which  for  sweetness,  harmony  and  time  I  have 
never  heard  surpassed.  On  Sunday  Bro  \\niite 
preached  ;  Tuesday  a  tea  and  address  in  the  school-room ; 
Wednesday  we  sailed  for  New  Westminster,  arriving  in 
the  evening,  and  on  Saturday  I  reached  Victoria.  The 
brethren  who  came  four  years  ago  have  faced  many  diffi- 
culties, but  not  one  of  them  thinks  of  leaving.  A  great 
future  is  before  us.' 

The  Rev.  Henry  Wilkinson  died  on  the  14th  of  August, 
1862;  58  years  of  age.  He  had  been  31  years  in  the  min- 
istry, for  many  years  Chairman  of  Districts,  President 
of  Conference,  Co-Delegate  the  last  year  of  his  life — one 
of  our  most  laborious  and  successful  ministers. 

On  the  26th  of  August,  1862,  the  Rev.  Joseph  Stinson, 
D.D.,  ex-President  of  the  Canada  Conference,  died  in 
Toronto,  after  several  months  of  severe  affliction,  in  the 
6ist  year  of  his  age  and  39th  of  his  ministry.  Thus  have 
the  two  chief  officers  of  last  year's  Conference  been  taken 
almost  together.  jyc 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Mr.  Joseph  Bloor,  of  Yorkville,  came  from  Stafford- 
shire, England,  in  1818.  He  gave  the  site  upon  which 
the  church  was  built  and  about  $5,000  towards  the  new 
church.  He  was  a  faithful  member  of  the  church,  loved 
as  a  father  in  his  class,  and  on  the  31st  of  August,  1862, 
in  his  75th  year,  died  with  a  triumphant  hope  of  eternal 
life. 

By  the  English  Conference  the  Rev.  Dr.  Green  was 
appointed  President  of  the  next  Canada  Conference,  the 
Rev.  John  Carroll,  Co-Delegate,  and  the  Rev.  Charles 
DeWolfe,  President  of  the  Eastern  Conference. 
From  Rev.  George -McDougall,  Aug.  15th,  1862: 
'  Our  journey  from  Fort  Pitt  was  made  in  three  days, 
through  a  country  equal  to  the  best  part  of  Canada  for 
agriculture — a  black  loam  on  strong  clay,  producing  the 
richest  grass,  feeding  countless  herds  of  buffalo;  and 
water  power  without  limit.  A  Cree  encampment  gave 
us  a  hearty  welcome,  and  two  of  their  Chiefs  accom- 
panied us.  Through  a  good  interpreter  we  pointed  them 
to  the  blessed  Redeemer.  After  our  journey,  catching 
sight  of  the  native  church,  now  nearly  finished,  the  mis- 
sion premises  and  the  neat  little  homes,  I  could  scarcely 
realize  that  I  was  thousands  of  miles  from  home.  The 
little  fields  of  barley,  wheat,  potatoes  and  turnips  look 
well.  With  peculiar  emotion  I  visited  the  mission  grave- 
yard. After  a  couple  of  days  with  Bro.  Steinhaur  we 
start  for  new  Victoria  Mission.' 

The  Rev.  Th.  Woolsey  writes,  August  i8th,  1862: 
'  Though  our  provisions  were  nearly  gone,  we  had 
fortunately  killed  a  fat  ox,  against  the  arrival  of  Bro. 
McDougall.  On  the  20th  we  left  with  our  guides  to  visit 
the  Crees  on  the  plains.  We  selected  a  new  site  for  the 
Victoria  Mission,  near  the  Saskatchewan,  crossed  the 
river  in  a  barge,  Mr.  John  McDougall  and  others  plung- 
ing into  the  deep  waters  and  swimming  across.  On  Satur- 
day a  fine  young  buck  fell  to  the  rifle  and  supplied  our 
need.  Hallowed  services  on  the  Sabbath.  On  the  26th 
we  came  upon  the  Cree  encampment  amid  great  demon- 
strations of  delight.  They  gave  us  a  tent  and  we  had  a 
series  of  open-air  services — the  first  camp-meeting  ever 

176 


THE   FIELD   AND   THE   WORKMEN 

held  on  the  Saskatchewan  Plains.  In  the  Sunday  love- 
feast  thirteen  Indians  gave  their  experience.  We  are  but 
the  vanguard  of  the  great  Methodist  army.  After  some 
baptisms  and  a  funeral  we  left,  assured  that  a  brighter 
day  is  dawning  upon  this  people.  "  Other  persons,"  said 
a  Chief,  "  pass  through  our  country  and  scarcely  notice 
us.  I  am  54  years  old  and  have  seen  many  changes.  I 
remember  when  buffaloes  were  thick  as  blades  of  grass. 
We  have  suffered  great  loss  of  life  by  our  enemies.  We 
must  tether  our  horses  and  keep  watch.  We  told  the 
Sarcees  the  good  words  of  our  missionaries,  and  for  two 
years  they  have  not  killed  any  of  us.  We  remember  what 
Mr.  Rundle  told  us  and  were  sorry  when  he  left."  Mr. 
McDougall  replied,  telling  them  about  the  Bible,  and 
advised  them  to  cultivate  the  soil.  The  officers  of  the 
Fort  gave  Mr.  McDougall  a  hearty  reception  on  our 
return.    We  had  three  services  in  Cree  on  Sunday.' 

Other  letters  from  the  missionaries  continued  the 
record.  After  expressing  his  admiration  of  the  attrac- 
tively picturesque  location  chosen  for  the  Victoria  Mis- 
sion, Mr.  McDougall  proceeds : 

'  In  this  delightful  country,  with  its  pleasant  climate,  a 
flourishing  mission  will  soon  become  a  centre  of  civiliza- 
tion and  Christianity  to  surrounding  tribes  and  exert  an 
influence  on  numbers  equal  to  the  whole  Indian  popula- 
tion of  Canada.  The  Cree  and  Stoney  camp  near  Carlton 
had  seventy  tents.  Later  I  passed  five  camps,  each  with 
ten  to  twenty  tents.  With  Bros.  Woolsey  and  Steinhaur 
I  visited  seventy  tents.  Had  time  permitted,  the  Black- 
feet,  Stoneys  and  Sarcees  would  have  gladly  received  us. 
Then  there  are  the  Wood  Indians  and  a  large  number  of 
Protestant  mixed  bloods.  Most  affectionately  were  we 
received  by  the  missionaries  on  these  vast  plains,  tra- 
velled the  last  twenty  years  by  Rundle,  Woolsey  and 
Steinhaur.  The  work  must  be  consolidated,  churches 
established,  and  the  hunters  taught  to  till  the  soil.  These 
tribes  slaughter  at  least  twenty  thousand  buffaloes  yearly 
and  they  are  fast  disappearing.  We  should  have  imme- 
diately two  more  missionaries  and  an  experienced  teacher. 
The  church  has  both  the  men  and  the  means.' 

September  2nd  Mr.  McDougall  writes  again : 

'  We  are  now  in  the  country  of  the  dreaded  Elackfeet, 
12  177 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

and  are  hourly  expecting  an  attack  from  the  war  party. 
Our  only  refuge  is  God.  Our  approach  to  the  great  camp 
was  very  exciting.  On  the  little  hillocks  around  were 
sentinels  with  loaded  rifles  and  scores  of  horses  grazing. 
The  vast  circle  of  tents,  all  made  of  dressed  buffalo  skins, 
and  many  of  them  beautifully  ornamented,  presented  a 
striking  picture.  Inside  the  inclosure  we  caught  a  glimpse 
of  savage  life,  under  one  of  its  happiest  aspects.  Ninety 
fat  cows  had  been  captured  and  stages  were  loaded  with 
the  richest  meat.  Women,  the  slaves  of  heathendom, 
were  hard  at  work,  while  their  lords,  robed  and  painted, 
sat  smoking.  An  old  conjurer,  in  alarm,  drummed  and 
sang  most  lustily,  but  we  were  received  with  the  greatest 
kindness.  The  head  Chief  set  before  us  a  kettle  of  the 
choicest  flesh.  Another  offered  us  his  tent.  After  the 
feast  the  pipe  of  peace  was  passed  around,  arrangements 
made  for  an  evening  service,  and  the  Indian  herald  an- 
nounced the  commencement  of  their  first  camp-meeting. 
Around  the  missionaries  gathered  the  native  Christians, 
flanked  by  the  restless  eyes  and  blood-stained  faces  of 
their  savage  brothers.  Their  earnestness  cannot  be 
described.  Through  seventeen  services  we  had  the  price- 
less privilege  of  pointing  these  benighted  wanderers  to 
the  Lamb  of  God,  the  interest  and,  we  trust,  the  effect- 
iveness increasing  to  the  end.  The  head  chief  was  read- 
ing the  8th  chapter  of  Romans  when  I  visited  him.  Yes- 
terday Bro.  Steinhaur  left  for  his  station.  How  often 
he  reminds  me  of  the  venerated  Wm.  Case,  through 
whom  the  Ojibway  boy  was  rescued  from  paganism  to 
obtain  a  good  education  and  become  a  successful  mes- 
senger of  salvation  to  these  perishing  tribes.  Our  part- 
ing from  the  Crees  was  very  affecting,  the  Chief  and  his 
warriors  accompanying  us  some  distance.  On  our  way  to 
Edmonton  over  the  rich,  grassy  plains  we  passed  within 
fifty  rods  of  a  herd  of  buffalo  without  disturbing  them. 
Elegant  antelopes  bounded  past  us  with  incredible  swift- 
ness. Wolves  and  prairie  dogs  feasted  on  dead  carcases. 
Withered  antlers  tell  the  story  of  the  elk  and  the  moose, 
but  the  king  of  the  plains  is  the  grizzly  bear.  Of  birds 
and  w^ater  fowl  there  is  great  variety.  .  .  .  T  deeply 
regretted  that  I  was  not  able  to  visit  the  Stoneys.  We 
learned  that  the  noble  native  who  had  been  their  spiritual 
guide  was  killed  last  spring  bv  the  Blackfeet.    To  Jesuits 

178 


THE   FIELD    AND   THE   WORKMEN 

who  visited  them  the  Chiefs  said,  "  For  twenty  years  we 
have  been  Methodists,  and  we  shall  wait  one  year  longer 
hoping  our  old  friends  will  remember  us."  I  wrote  that 
we  would  remember  them  and,  if  permitted,  I  would  be 
their  missionary  next  summer.  On  the  9th  of  September 
we  took  leave  of  our  hospitable  friends  of  Edmonton,  and 
in  a  small  skiff  I  commenced  my  homeward  journey  of  a 
thousand  miles.' 


Sydenham  Street  AIetuodisx  Chlrcii,  Kingston. 
179 


CHAPTER  XV. 
1862-3. 

COLLEGES  AND  CHURCHES. 

Commission — British  Columbia — Bowes — Elm  St. — Temperance — 
Montreal — Eastern  Townships — Conference,  1863,  Quebec — 
Class-meetings — Spencer — Jubilee — Aikens — Mason. 

The  University  Commission — Hon.  James  Patton, 
M.L.C.,  Vice-Chancellor  of  the  University;  John  Beatty, 
Esq.,  M.D.,  of  Cobourg;  John  Paton,  Esq.,  of  Kingston, 
and  David  Buchan,  Esq.,  Bursar  of  the  University — re- 
ported : 

'  Of  the  original  endowment  about  207,493  acres 
have  been  sold  for  $1,358,903;  unsold,  18,310  acres, 
valued  at  $167,049;  due  on  land  sold,  $334,226.  The 
College  buildings  cost  $355,907;  Library  and  Museum, 
$65,569.  These  expenditures  the  Commission  deem  dis- 
proportionate to  the  uses  and  inexpedient.' 

The  Bursar's  Department  costs  $7,670 — one-seventh  of 
the  present  annual  income;  fuel,  in  1861,  $2,598.  There 
had  been  no  audit  of  the  Bursar's  accounts. 

The  Commissioners  submitted  their  proposed  scheme 
to  the  chartered  Colleges  and  to  the  Senate  of  Toronto 
University,  and  the  replies  showed  "  substantial  agree- 
ment "  in  approval  of  the  plan — 

'  that  the  Senate  of  the  University  consist  of  the  heads 
of  the  Colleges,  one  elected  by  each  college  corporation, 
and  one-third  appointed  by  the  Government;  that  $1,000 
be  allotted  for  successful  competitors ;  that  the  chartered 
Colleges  accept  affiliation  with  the  University  and  that 
the  University  only  grant  degrees ;  that  an  annual  appro- 
priation be  made  to  University  College  of  $28,000.  and  to 
each  of  the  affiliated  Colleges  $10,000  and  $500  to  each 
for  prizes,'  etc. 

I  So 


1.  German,  Rev.  Peter 
4.  Galley,  Mr.  Edward. 
7.  Milner,  Rev.  Jonathan 


2.  Pascoe,  Wm.  S.,  D  D. 
5.  Mrs.  Edward  Galley 
8.  Williams,  VVm.,  D.D. 


3.  Milligan   G   S.,  LI..D. 
6.  Manning,  Mr.  James 
9.  Robson,  Ebenezer,  D.I). 


COLLEGES  AND  CHURCHES 

Other  suggestions  and  details  are  found  in  the  report. 
Several  of  the  Toronto  and  other  papers  strongly  opposed 
the  report  and  brisk  correspondence  was  kept  up  for 
some  months. 

'  We  have  taken  pains,'  writes  the  editor  of  the 
Guardian,  '  to  read  and  hear  all  that  has  been  available 
on  the  University  Question,  and  have  encouraged  discus- 
sion in  our  columns.  We  utterly  fail  to  see  why  the 
proceeds  of  an  endowment  that  should  net  $100,000  a 
year  should  be  spent  on  one  College,  while  it  might,  with 
a  fair  amount  of  local  aid,  sustain  ten,  each  doing  as 
much  educational  work  and  doing  it  as  well  as  the  one.' 

'  Many  petitions  have  been  presented  against  University 
reform.  The  publication  of  the  Commissioners'  Report 
seems  to  have  aroused  the  friends  of  the  Toronto 
monopoly.  Many  of  the  petitions  are  from  Presbyterian 
congregations.  To  those  who  know  the  relation  of 
Knox  College  to  the  University  it  does  not  seem  in  the 
best  taste  that  they  should  petition  to  retain  the 
monopoly.' — Quebec  Correspondent. 

October  13th,  1862,  the  Rev.  Dr.  Evans  writes  of  his 
tour  through  British  Columbia  : 

'  My  confidence  in  our  future,  always  strong,  has  been 
greatly  strengthened  by  what  I  have  seen  during  recent 
months  in  passing  through  portions  occupied  by  miners, 
agriculturists  and  traders.  I  am  convinced  that  the  coun- 
try is  incomputably  rich  in  minerals,  and  within  a  few 
years  will  be  the  hom.e  of  thousands  of  well-remunerated 
cultivators  of  the  soil.  I  have  no  disposition  to  invite 
persons  to  leave  comfortable  homes,  as  some  of  us  have 
been  charged  with  doing.  We  sympathize  with  many 
who  have  met  disappointment.  Their  failures  are  often 
attributable  to  themselves  or  circumstances,  for  a  fair 
proportion  have  been  successful.  With  God's  blessing 
progress  is  being  made  in  most  of  our  fields  of  labor. 
The  zeal  of  my  esteemed  colleague  is  helping  the  con- 
gregation and  Sunday  School  in  Victoria.' 

The  Missionary  Committee  was  in  session  during  the 
second  week  of  November,  in  the  Adelaide  St.  Church, 
Toronto.     At  the   annual  meeting  the  Mayor,  John   G. 

181 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Bowes,  Esq.,  presided.  The  income  was  $53,427,  but  the 
expenditure  $4,000  in  excess.  A  missionary  breakfast 
was  given  in  the  Richmond  St.  Church,  attended  by  about 
200  ladies  and  gentlemen. 

The  opening  of  the  Ehn  Street  Church,  Toronto, 
on  the  1 6th  of  November  was  an  occasion  of 
great  interest.  The  Rev.  Dr.  Wood  preached 
the  dedication  sermon.  This  interesting  cause  dates  back 
to  1845-50,  when  volunteers  held  prayer-meetings  and 
Sunday  School  in  the  schoolhouse  on  Teraulay  St.  In 
1855  the  church  recently  destroyed  by  fire  was  built. 
The  new  church  is  of  white  brick,  55x85,  with  school 
and  lecture  rooms ;  cost  $18,000. 

Prohibiton — The  Temperance  Advocate  calls  upon  all 
friends  of  temperance  to  petition  the  Legislature  for  the 
suppression  of  the  liquor  traffic. 

'  We  heartily  concur  in  this  advice,  and  petitions  should 
be  repeated  every  year  until  the  all-important  object  is 
accomplished.' — Guardian,  December,  1862. 

Revival  services  begun  by  Evangelist  Hammond  in  the 
American  Presbyterian  Church,  Montreal,  so  increased 
in  interest  during  December,  1862,  that  the  meetings  were 
transferred  to  Great  St.  James  St.  Methodist  Church 
and  the  Rev.  James  Caughey,  of  Burlington,  Vermont, 
was  invited  to  come  over  and  assist.  The  revival  inter- 
ested most  of  the  Protestant  churches  of  the  city,  and 
some  hundreds  were  added  to  their  numbers. 

New  Westminster — 

'  Many  persons  arriving  in  February  found  the  ground 
covered  with  snow — unusual  here.  Our  church  is 
crowded;  prayer-meetings  and  Bible  class  well  attended. 
Dr.  Evans  came  to  our  missionary  meeting — the  first  held 
here.  Mr,  Clarkson,  from  Bowmanville,  Ont.,  was  in 
the  chair;  over  $200  contributed.  An  address  and  purse 
of  $100  cheered  Rev.  E.  Robson.' — E.  White. 

The  Rev.  Lachlin  Taylor  left  in  March  for  Britisl: 
Columbia  on  a  mission  for  the  Bible  Society. 

182 


COLLEGES  AND  CHURCHES 

,     Leeds  County,  C.E. : 

'  Our  towering  mountains,  abundant  streams  and  fer- 
tile lands  are  among  the  most  beautiful  landscapes  in 
Canada.  Our  intelligent  and  devout  Methodists  appre- 
ciated the  Chairman's  visit  last  summer  and  his  sermons, 
full  of  pathos  and  power.  Our  missionary  meetings, 
tea-meeting  and  love-feast  were  all  encouraging.  We  had 
twelve  weeks  of  revival  services,  our  minister  preaching 
twelve  times  a  week.' — ^John  T.  Lambly. 

The  Annual  Primitive  Methodist  Conference  com- 
menced its  sessions  April  loth,  1863,  in  the  Alice  St. 
Church,  Toronto.  The  Rev.  John  Nattrass  was  chosen 
President  and  the  Rev,  Thomas  Crompton  Secretary. 
The  increase  in  members  and  funds  indicates  prosperity. 

The  Rev.  G.  F.  Playter,  replying  to  inquiries  regarding 
his  History,  says : 

'  Preachers  and  others  may  wish  to  learn  about  the 
second  volume.  The  "  hard  times  "  have  not  been  pro- 
pitious for  the  sale  of  the  first  volume,  and  the  author  is 
not  a  little  embarrassed.  He  hopes  that  the  coming  Con- 
ference will  lend  a  helping  hand  towards  the  publication 
of  the  second,  which  is  now  ready  for  the  press.' 

An  edition  of  four  thousand  of  Vol.  L  had  been 
printed.  It  is  matter  of  deep  regret  that  Mr.  Playter's 
second  volume,  though  written,  was  never  published.  It 
was  left  by  the  author  with  the  Book  Room  for  examina- 
tion, and  what  became  of  it  we  have  not  been  able  to 
learn.  The  loss  of  such  an  accumulation  of  events  con- 
cerning our  church  from  1828  to  i860  cannot  easily  be 
estimated. 

Owing  to  the  wide  separation  of  the  brethren  on  the 
Quebec  District  and  the  impossibility  of  maintaining  fre- 
quent fellowship  they  looked  forward  to  the  Annual 
Meeting  with  much  interest. 

'  The  great  depreciation  of  American  money  interfered 
much  with  the  finances  of  the  border  circuits,  but  the 
spiritual  aspects  of  the  District  were  encouraging.  The 
city  of  Quebec  had  raised  upwards  of  $4,000  for  local 

183 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

purposes.  On  some  of  the  circuits  parsonages  had  been 
furnished.  In  Cookshire  a  church  was  built  chiefly- 
through  the  liberaHty  of  two  gentlemen.  The  influx  of 
American  sects  was  a  source  of  irritation  and  a  hindrance 
to  evangelical  ministrations.  But  a  brighter  day  is  dawn- 
ing for  the  Eastern  Townships.  Their  physical  aspects, 
in  variety,  beauty  and  sublimity  are  rarely  equalled. 
Some  parts  are  specially  adapted  to  agriculture;  springs 
of  pure  water  and  rich  pasturage  ensure  the  choicest  of 
dairy  products.  Mines  and  minerals  afford  a  variety  of 
employment  and  good  results.  The  approaching  Con- 
ference is  expected  to  draw  increased  attention  to  this 
part  of  the  field.  The  supervision  of  our  Chairman,  the 
Rev.  John  Gemley,  has  been  vigilant  and  sympathetic' 

The  venerable  Dr.  Hannah,  concluding  his  address  at 
the  Wesleyan  Missionary  Meeting,  in  Exeter  Hall,  said : 

'  May  I  just  mention  the  late  Dr.  Stinson,  whose  course 
I  have  traced  from  its  beginning?  I  knew  him  as  a  youth 
at  home  when  he  first  gained  the  religion  of  our  Lord,  on 
entering  his  work  as  a  missionary,  in  his  faithful  labors 
at  home  and  abroad,  and  did  not  think  my  beloved  young 
friend  would  cross  the  river  before  me.  I  think  of  Dr. 
Stinson  as  a  man  of  sterling  piety,  of  eminent  ministerial 
talent,  of  wise  judgment  and  devoted  zeal,  who  well  filled 
up  his  allotted  space  and  has  passed  to  his  rest.' 

New  churches  have  been  recently  opened  in  Hastings. 
New  Boyne,  Camden,  Tilbury  East,  Claremont  and  many 
other  places. 

On  the  3rd  of  June,  1863,  the  Conference  met  for  the 
first  time  in  the  city  of  Quebec. 

*  To  most  of  the  ministers  everything  here  is  of  in- 
terest. The  stamp  of  antiquity  is  everywhere ;  the  narrow 
streets,  the  massive  walls  and  gates,  the  heavy  ordnance, 
the  groups  of  soldiers  at  every  corner  inform  us  that  the 
time  has  not  yet  come  when  the  nations  shall  learn  to  war 
no  more.  The  reception  of  the  Conference  has  been  most 
cordial.' 

At  10  o'clock  Wednesday  morning  the  retiring  Presi- 
dent, Rev.  Dr.  Wood,  opened  the  Conference.  One  hun- 
dred and  eighty  ministers  were  present.     The  Rev.  Dr. 

184 


COLLEGES  AND  CHURCHES 

Green,  appointed  President  of  this  Conference,  took  the 
chair,  with  Rev.  John  Carroll  as  Co-Delegate.  The  Rev. 
James  Spencer,  M.A.,  was  elected  Secretary. 

Into  full  connection — Wm.  Briggs,  Francis  W.  Ware, 
George  Burson,  Robt.  Shavv^,  B.A.,  John  Neelands, 
Wm.  F.  Morrison,  B.A.,  James  Hannon,  Daniel  A.  Per- 
rin,  B.A.,  Jos.  H.  Stinson,  Peter  Bawtenheimer,  George 
McRae,  Coleman  Bristol,  B.A.,  Isaac  Gold,  Robt.  O. 
Wilson,  James  Graham,  John  B.  Clarkson,  B.A.,  Jas.  W. 
Sloan,  Richard  N.  Adams,  Hazelton  A.  Spencer,  Francis 
C.  Ireland,  George  Washington,  B.A.,  Alex.  Campbell, 
Jr.,  Edmund  S.  Shorey,  Alex,  La  Clair,  James  A.  Gor- 
don, Thomas  Bell,  and  Samuel  Jackson. 

Thirty-three  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — Thomas  Harmon,  July  24th,  1862,  78  years. 

Edmund  Stoney,  August  8th,  1862,  71  years. 

Henry  Wilkinson,  August  14th,  1862,  58  years. 

Joseph  Stinson,  D.D.,  Aue.  26th,  1862,  60  years. 

John  Shannon,  September  6th,  1862,  25  }ears. 

John  H.  Mulholland,  Oct.  31st,  1862,  24  years. 

Philip  Rose,  December  29th,  1862,  42  years. 

Abraham  Dayman,  April  13th.  1863,  44  years. 

James  Musgrove,  May  9th,  1863,  yy  years. 

James  Ash,  June  6th,  1862,  29  years. 
The  unusually  large  number  of  deaths  was  deeply  felt 
by  the  Conference. 

Total  number  of  members,  56,338;  increase,   1,933. 
The  Book  Steward  and  Editor  were  re-elected. 

A  resolution  from  the  Quebec  District  led  to  a  careful 
consideration  of  the  class-meeting  as  a  Scriptural  and 
edifying  mode  of  Christian  fellowship. 

A  committee  was  appointed  to  revise  the  Discipline, 
with  such  changes  as  had  been  legally  made;  also  a  com- 
mittee to  prepare  a, new  Tune  Book. 

The  Rev.  Geo.  H.  Cornish  proposed  publishing  a 
"  Handbook  of  Canadian  Methodism "  so  soon  as  the 
necessary  information  can  be  obtained.  The  Conference 
gave  its  approval. 

The  addresses  of  the  Rev.  Drs.  F.  G.  Hibbard  and 

185 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

F.  Hodgson,  Delegates  from  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  U.  S.,  and  the  ordination  sermon  by  Dr.  Hib- 
bard  were  listened  to  with  very  deep  interest. 

The  Rev.  John  Douse  reported  his  visit  to  the  English 
Conference. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Wood  was  requested  as  Superintendent 
of  Amissions  for  next  year  and  the  Rev.  S.  D,  Rice  as 
Co-Delegate. 

The  Revs.  John  Carroll  and  Dr.  Nelles  were  appointed 
Delegates  to  the  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church,  U.  S. 

The  Conference,  regarded  as  one  of  the  most  interest- 
ing yet  held,  closed  on  Friday  evening. 

Several  ministers  supplied  the  pulpits  of  other  denomi- 
nations, some  of  which  own  their  indebtedness  to  Metho- 
dism. Isaac  Taylor  says  that  Methodism  saved  the  lan- 
guishing non-conformity  of  England.  On  the  death  of 
Lady  Huntingdon  many  of  Whitfield's  chapels  became 
Independent  ones.  Wm.  Jay  received  his  first  impres- 
sions in  a  Methodist  preaching  room  at  Tisbury.  The 
mother  of  John  Angel  James,  says  Mr.  Dale,  left  the 
dissenting  meeting  house  for  the  Methodist  chapel  be- 
cause she  found  there  'more  power,  though  less  polish.' 
Dr.  Leifchild,  Dr.  Campbell,  George  Smith  of  Poplar, 
Stoughton  of  Kensington,  Parker  of  Manchester,  were 
all  Methodist  local  preachers.  Dr.  Raffles,  Dr  McAll, 
James  Parsons  of  York,  on  the  maternal  side,  were  re- 
lated to  Methodism. 

Of  2,600  hymns  in  use  by  the  churches,  1,156  are 
from  the  Wesleys.  Toplady,  though  a  bitter  opponent, 
incorporated  164  hymns  by  the  Wesleys  in  his  hymn- 
book.  In  most  later  collections  there  is  a  similar  pro- 
portion. 

The  Eastern  Wesleyan  Conference  met  in  Charlotte- 
town  on  the  24th  of  June,  1863.  President,  Rev.  Dr. 
De  Wolfe;  Secretary,  Rev.  R.  A.  Temple. 

186 


COLLEGES  AND  CHURCHES 

For  the  2ist  anniversary  of  the  Mt.  Allison  Academy, 
Sackville,  there  was  an  enthusiastic  gathering  of  twelve 
hundred  and  fifty  pupils  and  friends. 

The  Revs.  J.  H.  Starr,  of  the  Canada  Conference, 
Edmund  Botterell,  of  Newfoundland,  and  Fred.  W. 
Moore,  of  Bermuda,  were  introduced. 

The  Reports  showed  vigorous  progress  in  educational 
and  financial  interests,  but  a  slight  decrease  in  members. 

In  the  recent  English  Conference,  during  an 
earnest  consideration  of  class-meetings.  Dr.  Bunting 
closed  an  earnest  address  with  these  words :  "  Most 
earnestly  I  exhort  all  converts  to  Christianity  to  avail 
themselves  of  that  incomparable  means  of  grace — the 
class-meeting." 

Mr.  Gregory  said:  "  People  should  be  taught  that 
their  membership  was  incomplete  unless  they  came  to 
the  communion  of  saints.  They  were  all  bound  to  con- 
tribute something  towards  mutual  edification." 

William  Arthur  said :  "  The  Lord's  Supper  is  not  a 
test,  but  a  public  recognition  of  church  member- 
ship. Every  church  has  its  own  tests,  but  there  is 
no  Scripturaily  constituted  church  that  professes 
to  dispense  with  tests  altogether.  In  the  Metho- 
dist Church  one  leading  condition  and  test  of  membership 
is  that,  among  other  Christian  duties,  fellowship  be 
attended  to.  It  is  part  of  God's  will  that  we  should 
exhort  one  another,  edify  one  another,  confess  our  faults 
to  one  another.  The  church  provides  for  the  individual 
life,  the  public  and  the  social  life  of  the  church.  Let  us 
do  everything  to  revive  the  old  Methodist  spirit  in  regard 
to  the  class-meeting  and  the  love-feast." 

Dr.  Hannah  said :  "  The  wisdom  of  more  than  a  hun- 
dred years  is  worthy  of  our  regard.  This  form  of  Chris- 
tian fellowship  has  proved  of  inestimable  advantage, 
and  I  trust  the  day  will  never  come  when  this  Confer- 
ence will  give  any  sanction  to  the  neglect  of  the  class- 
meeting." 

Mr.  Rigg  said :  "  I  am  very  thankful  to  hear  Mr. 
Arthur  state  so  distinctly  that  the  Lord's  Supper  is  not 
a  test  of  church  membership;,  but  a  token  of  it.  There 
are  other  churches  in  which  persons  receive  the  Lord's 

187 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Supper,  though  not  recognized  as  fully  accredited  mem- 
bers of  the  church.  I  hope  we  shall  be  very  loath  to 
enlarge  by  relaxing  our  test  of  church  membership." 

It  was  stated  in  Conference  that  some  young  men 
were    becoming    readers    rather    than    preachers. 

The  Rev.  John  Bredin,  from  Canada,  being  asked  to 
speak  at  the  open  meeting,  after  some  statements  regard- 
ing missionary  and  educational  work,  said : 

"  I  predict  that  a  century  hence  the  Canadian  people 
will  be  the  noblest  specimens  of  humanity  on  the  face 
of  the  earth,  all  that  was  good  in  the  Celt,  the  Saxon,  the 
Gaul,  and  other  races,  combining  to  form  neither  English, 
Irish,  nor  Welsh,  but  Canadians,  who  would  take  their 
right  place  among  the  churches  of  Christendom  and 
among  the  nations  of  the  earth."    Cheers. 

Arrangements  were  made  for  a  Jubilee  Celebration  of 
the  founding  of  the  Wesleyan  Missionary  Society. 

The  seceding  bodies  of  Methodists,  in  England,  seem 
disposed  to  cultivate  fraternal  intercourse,  with  a  view 
to  possible  re-union.  The  following  is  a  statement  of 
their  numbers : 

Primitive  Methodists    140,000 

Free  Methodist  and  Reform  Union 70,000 

Methodist  New  Connexion   33,000 

Bible    Christians    24,000 

Irish    Primitives    14,000 

At  a  Breakfast,  opening  the  Missionary  Jubilee  in 
England,  £10,000  were  subscribed.  The  Rev.  Thomas 
Jackson  preached  a  Jubilee  sermon,  and  the  offerings 
during  one  week  in  Leeds  and  vicinity  were  over 
£30,000. 

Rev.  Isaac  B.  Aylesworth,  M.D.,  Agent  for  Victoria 
College,  after  a  few  weeks'  canvass,  reported  $10,000 
raised,  between  Cobourg  and  Matilda,  with  the  prospect 
of  soon  securing  the  $30,000  required. 

The  Rev.  James  Spencer,  M.A.,  ex-Editor,  Secretary 
of    last   year's    Conference,  and    Representative    to    the 

188 


COLLEGES  AND  CHURCHES 

English  Conference,  died  on  the  9th  of  October,  1863, 
after  a  few  days'  illness,  at  the  age  of  51  years 

The  Rev.  Lachlin  Taylor  arrived  at  Victoria,  May 
23rd.  Several  Chinese  were  there,  in  search  of  gold, 
opening  a  new  phase  of  missionary  work.  Captain  Peck, 
of  the  merchant  vessel  Vancouver,  a  local  preacher,  with 
a  converted  crew,  was  telling  his  experience,  with  good 
effect,  to  crowds,  week-day  and  Sunday.  Some  women 
and  children  had  arrived  from  Bowmanville,  Ont. 

At  the  Annual  Meeting  of  the  Missionary  Society  in 
Kingston,  J.  A.  Mathewson,  Esq.,  of  Montreal,  proposed 
that  we  co-operate  with  the  parent  Society,  and  cancel 
the  debt  of  the  Missionary  Society  and  all  othei  Church 
debts.  The  proposal  was  heartily  accepted  and  sug- 
gestions made  for  accomplishing  the  work.  The  mission- 
ary income  is  not  meeting  the  expenditure  by  six  or 
seven  thousand  dollars  a  year. 

The  Rev.  E.  Sallows  reports  an  exciting  tour  among 
the  Indians  of  Lake  Superior,  and  thus  ends  his  story : 

'  We  rowed  down  to  the  "Soo,"  ran  the  rapids,  met 
many  old  friends  who  hailed  with  shouts  our  safe  return. 
My  dear  wife  and  little  girl  were  on  the  banks  anxiously 
awaiting  us — after  twenty-seven  days'  absence  and  a 
journey  of  600  miles.' 

After  sixteen  months'  work,  the  French  missionary 
appointed  to  Montreal  reported  an  average  congregation 
of  fifty  persons  and  twenty-four  members  in  class. 

Dec.  i8th,  1863 — The  Rev.  George  Young  writes  of 
the  Jubilee  spirit  in  Quebec: 

'  After  the  successful  missionary  meeting  the  trustees 
determined  on  a  social  gathering  with  a  view  to  raising 
^4,000  on  their  church  debt.  When  the  chairman  offered 
S400  eight  gentlemen  promptly  followed  his  lead,  making 
$3,200,  which  was  soon  increased  to  $5,240,  when  the 
Doxology  was  thankfully  sung.  At  the  missionary  meet- 
ing the  Hon.  James  Ferrier,  being  called  to  the  chair, 
said:  'If  we  think  of  our  blessings,  our  gratitude  will 
be  manifested  by  our  offerings. 

iSo 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

"  Shall  we,  whose  souls  are  lighted 
With  wisdom  from  on  high — 
Shall  we  to  men  benighted 
The  lamp  of  life  deny?" 

^od  requires  sacrifices.  Do  the  many  who  give  five  or 
ten  dollars  make  sacrifices?  A  man  in  Montreal,  hearing 
of  a  missionary's  need,  sent  me  four  dollars  and  denied 
himself  of  his  25c.  dinner  for  sixteen  days  to  make  up 
the  amount. 

'  The  Hon.  J.  C.  Aikens  seconded  one  of  the  resolu- 
tions.' 

Havelock  Mission — '  After  preaching  in  Norwood  and 
Havelock,  we  were  driven  seven  miles  to  Victoria,  by 
Peter  Pearse,  Esq.,  Warden  of  the  County.  At  the  mis- 
sionary meetings,  during  the  following  evenings,  we 
met  many  settlers  from  the  vicinity  of  Belleville.  The 
woods  abound  with  game,  the  lakes  with  fish,  and  over 
the  ice  lumbermen  were  drawing  immense  supplies 
of  timber.  In  the  southern  part  of  the  township,  workers 
were  in  the  iron  mines.  Good  schoolhouses  are  available 
for  worship,  and  the  young  missionary,  fresh  from  col- 
lege— Edward  Morrow,  B.A. — has  penetrated  every 
accessible  neighborhood,  and  visited  every  Piotestant 
family,  not  forgetting  the  children.  No  wonder  we  had 
good  meetings.' — Chairman. 

The  Rev.  John  Carroll  tells  of  another  journey,  north 
from  Peterborough,  with  the  Rev.  John  Sanderson, 
through  the  townships  of  Smith,  Innismore,  Verulum, 
Harvey,  Somerville,  Gal  way,  Lutterworth,  etc.,  to  Gull 
River — 120  miles  over  land,  lake,  swamp  and  ice — finding 
the  people  "  superlatively  agreeable." 

Mr.  James  Aikens,  whose  arrival  in  Canada  and  settle- 
ment in  the  Toronto  Township  we  noticed  in  Vol  I.,  p. 
123,  made  for  himself  and  family  a  comfortable  home, 
and  the  Presbyterian  elder  became  a  Methodist  class- 
leader.     In   1856  he  suffered  the  loss  of  his  wife  and 

190 


COLLEGES  AND  CHURCHES 

daughter.  To  himself  the  call  came  Dec.  15th,  1863, 
soon  after  his  82nd  birthday.  He  is  remembered  as  a 
man  of  inflexible  integrity  and  extensive  influence. 
Hon.  James  C.  Aikens  and  Dr.  Wm.  T.  Aikens,  of  To- 
ronto, are  worthy  representatives  of  a  numerous 
family. 

A  movement  in  Montreal  Methodism  for  Church  ex- 
tension reached  a  general  and  hopeful  agreement  at  a 
representative  meeting  of  all  the  circuits,  on  the  27th  of 
January,  1864,  for  the  raising  of  $50,000  and  the  building 
of  three  additional  churches. 

Mr.  Hugh  Mason,  of  Trafalgar,  Ont.,  born  in  County 
Armagh,  Ireland,  was  one  of  a  noble  band  of  German- 
Irish  immigrants  who  reached  Little  York  about  1820, 
and  were  among  the  pioneers  to  cut  away  the  forests  of 
the  Toronto,  Trafalgar  and  adjoining  townships.  In 
1825  Mr.  Mason  married  Miss  Eliza,  daughter  of  Samuel 
and  Mary  Switzer,  and  both  became  members  of  the 
Methodist  Church,  at  the  appointment  long  known  as 
"  Switzer's."  Their  home  was  ever  open  to  friends  and 
strangers,  and  many  a  toil-worn  itinerant  received  a 
cheering  welcome  and  generous  entertainment.  After  a 
life  of  faithful  service,  Mr.  Mason  died  Feb.  14th,  1864; 
Mrs.  Mason  survived  her  husband  to  her  88th  year. 

The  Revs.  John  Carroll  and  Dr.  Nelles  received  a  very 
hearty  welcome  from  the  General  Conference  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  U.  S. ;  so  also  did  the  Rev. 
W.  L.  Thornton,  M.A.,  Representative  from  the  Eng- 
lish Conference. 


191 


CHAPTER  XVI. 
1864. 

MISSIONS  BECOME  CIRCUITS. 

Conference,  Toronto — Dignam — Lord  Minton — Blythe — Wingham 
Listowel — Lucknow — Goderich — Seaforth — Barrie  —  Perth  — 
Blackfeet. 

The  forty-first  session  of  the  Canada  Conference  was 
opened  in  the  Elm  St.  Church,  Toronto,  on  the  ist  of 
June,  1864.  The  Rev.  Wm.  L.  Thornton,  M.A.,  appoint- 
ed President  by  the  Enghsh  Conference,  was  introduced 
by  Dr.  Green  and  welcomed  to  the  chair.  His  earnest 
and  sympathetic  address  won  all  hearts.  The  Rev.  S.  D. 
Rice  was  introduced  as  Co-Delegate.  The  Rev.  Wm. 
Pollard  was  elected  Secretary.  Of  those  appointed  to 
attend  Conference,  over  two  hundred  were  present.  The 
Rev.  Robinson  Scott,  of  the  Irish  Conference,  was  intro- 
duced, also  the  Rev.  Fitch  Reed,  D.D.,  of  the  M.  E. 
Church,  U.S.,  who,  in  1820,  had  been  appointed  to  the 
York  Circuit  by  Bishop  McKendry.  In  his  address  he 
referred  with  much  emotion  to  those  early  times.  His 
visit  and  addresses  were  very  highly  appreciated. 

Into  full  connection — Peter  Addison,  Wm.  Adams, 
Daniel  E.  Brownell,  Nathaniel  Burwash,  B.A.,  Alex. 
Burns,  B.A.,  Nathaniel  S.  Burwash,  Henry  Beeson, 
David  Brethour,  John  Corbett,  Wm.  F.  Campbell,  David 
Chalmers,  George  H.  Field,  Josias  Green,  Robert  God- 
frey, Wm.  Hicks,  David  Kennedy,  B.A.,  Geo.  H.  Ken- 
ney,  Jas.  Matheson,  Davidson  McDonald,  John  Philp, 
B.A.,  Jas.  E.  Richardson,  Brock  Rose,  Edmund  S. 
Rupert,  B.A.,  Wm.  H.  Schofield,  B.A.,  Ezra  A.  Stafford, 
Geo.  Sexsmith,  Thomas  Walker,  John  C.  Willmott,  B.A., 
Wm.  C.  Watson,  B.A.,  Jas.  Whiting. 

192 


MISSIONS  BECOME  CIRCUITS 

Twenty-nine  young  men  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — James  Spencer,  M.A.,  October  9th,  1863,  ^g^d  51 
years. 
Robert  Brown,  November  4th,  1863,  aged  45  years. 
Kenneth  McKenzie,  December  25th,  1863,  aged  28 
years. 

The  church  was  well  filled  Sunday  morning  for  the 
love-feast.  The  President  preached  the  ordination  ser- 
mon. Hundreds  were  unable  to  gain  admission.  The 
Rev.  Robinson  Scott  preached  in  the  evening.  All  the 
services  of  the  day  were  greatly  enjoyed. 

The  Report  of  the  Book  Room  was  satisfactory. 

The  Book  Steward  and  Editor  were  re-elected. 

The  Bursar  declared  Victoria  College  self-sustaining. 

Nineteen  thousand  dollars  had  been  raised  toward  the 
debt. 

It  was  considered  that  the  Committee  had  acted  pre- 
maturely in  publishing  the  new  Discipline ;  and  it  was 
ordered  that  the  changes  be  submitted  to  next  Con- 
ference. 

There  was  an  increase  of  156  members,  but  so  large 
a  decrease  of  those  on  trial — owing  probably  to 
closer  scrutiny  by  reason  of  the  Children's  Fund — as  to 
show  a  decrease  of  jy6. 

A  day  of  special  humiliation  and  prayer  was  appointed. 

The  President  suggested  the  nomination  of  a  President 
for  next  year.  The  Rev.  Richard  Jones  was  nominated, 
and  the  Rev.  Asahel  Hurlburt  as  Co-Delegate. 

The  visit  of  the  Rev.  W.  L.  Thornton,  M.A.,  will  be  a 
pleasurable  remembrance.  His  conduct  in  the  chair  sur- 
passed all  expectations.  His  strict  attention  to  business, 
his  simplicity  and  impartiality,  the  deep  spirituality  of 
his  addresses,  the  unction  attending  his  discourses,  won 
the  admiration  and  gratitude  of  the  whole  Conference. 

The  Rev.  Robinson  Scott's  mission  is  in  quest  of  aid 
for  the  Irish  education  system.    His  preaching  and  ad- 
dresses were  very  highly  prized.    At  the  General  Con- 
's 193 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

ference,  Philadelphia,  he  was  assured  of  assistance  to  the 
amount  of  probably  $100,000;  and  Canadian  Methodists 
own  their  great  indebtedness  to  Irish  Methodism. 

The  degree  of  Doctor  of  Divinity  was  recently  con- 
ferred on  the  Rev.  Lachlin  Taylor. 

The  Provincial  IVesleyan  accords  unstinted  praise  to 
the  Rev.  W.  L.  Thornton,  M.A.,  whose  presence  and 
counsels,  as  President,  contributed  greatly  to  the  pleasure 
and  profit  of  the  Eastern  Conference. 

The  Rev.  John  Mc^Murray  was  elected  Secretary. 

Eight  young  men  were  ordained  and  five  were  received 
on  trial.  The  Revs.  Arthur  McNutt  and  J.  B.  Brownell 
had  died  during  the  year. 

Members,  15,105;  on  trial,  1,793 — ^  slight  increase. 

The  Mount  Allison  Educational  Institution,  the  St. 
John  Academy,  and  the  Theological  Institute  received 
careful  consideration. 

The  Rev.  John  McMurray  was  nominated  as  the  next 
President,  and  the  Rev.  E.  Botterell  as  Co-Delegate. 

The  missionary  Jubilee  Celebration  was  favorably 
entertained.  The  Rev.  Robinson  Scott  attended,  and, 
with  the  President,  sailed  for  England  on  the  7th  of  July. 

The  Rev.  Wm.  Dignam  died  near  St.  John's,  London 
Township,  on  the  22nd  of  July,  in  the  54th  year  of  his 
ministry. 

'  We  remember,'  writes  the  Editor,  '  when  Bro.  Dig- 
nam began  his  labors  on  the  Ottawa  District  in  1840  — 
his  energy  and  devotion  to  his  work,  an  excellent  man 
whose  labors  have  been  blessed  to  many  souls.' 

On  his  return  from  Canada,  the  Rev.  W.  L.  Thornton, 
M.A.,  was  elected  President  of  the  English  Conference. 
Though  already  Editor  of  Methodist  publications,  he 
was  suggested  as  Principal  for  the  new  Theological  In- 
stitution. In  an  evening  session  Mr.  Thornton  delighted 
a  full  house  with  thrilling  descriptions  of  his  experiences 
in  the  United  States,  Canada,  and  the  Eastern  Provinces. 

194 


MISSIONS   BECOME  CIRCUITS 

The  observance  of  August  5th  as  a  day  of  fasting  and 
prayer  was  followed  by  many  evidences  of  increasing 
faith  and  enlarged  expectations  of  spiritual  progress;  at 
many  camp-meetings  was  heard  the  "  sounds  of  abun- 
dance of  rain,"  giving  assurance  that  the  temporary 
decrease  will  be  succeeded  by  glorious  increase. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Woolsey,  after  nine  years  of  ardu- 
ous labor  on  the  great  Saskatchewan  Plains,  returned 
in  good  health  and  with  good  tidings  from  his  fellow- 
laborers.  To  the  missionaries  Canada  owes  a  debt  of 
gratitude  for  making  known  the  true  character  and 
value  of  the  great  North-West: 

'  I  have  declared  most  strongly  the  peculiar  adapta- 
tions of  the  Saskatchewan  Valley  for  extensive  immi- 
gration, because  of  the  fertility  of  its  soil  and  the  salu- 
brity of  its  climate  and  am  surprised  to  find  contrary 
views  circulated.  Lord  Milton,  after  traversing  this 
country,  in  a  paper  read  before  the  British  Association 
on  his  return  to  England,  says :  "  I  must  allude  very 
briefly  to  the  magnificent  country  which  extends  from 
Red  River  to  the  base  of  the  Rocky  Mountains.  .  .  . 
It  is  peculiarly  well  adapted  for  settlement ;  rich  prairies 
ready  for  the  plough,  interspersed  with  woods  for  build- 
ing and  fencing.  The  spring  is  a  month  earlier  than  on 
the  shores  of  Lake  Superior;  grain  of  all  kinds  grows 
with  the  greatest  luxuriance,  and  the  root  crops  are  finer 
than  I  have  seen  in  England.  The  pasturage  is  almost 
endless  in  extent  and  so  luxuriant  that  horses  turned  out 
thin  in  the  winter  are  brought  in  fat  in  the  spring.  Could 
communication  be  established  between  Canada  and  Brit- 
ish Columbia  this  district  would,  I  believe,  be  one  of  the 
most  valuable  of  the  British  possessions."  ' 

The  annual  muster  of  Methodist  Sunday  Schools  in 
Montreal,  New  Year's  morning,  reported  179  teachers, 
1,320  scholars  and  $877  in  missionary  contributions. 

The  Rev.  John  Gemley  reports  indications  of  increase 
in  missionary  giving — '  notwithstanding  that  this  is  the 
most  trying  season  that  the  country  around  Kingston 
has  experienced  for  many  years.' 

195 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA. 

Blythe  Mission — 

'  This  year  a  brighter  prospect  is  dawning ;  a  few  con- 
versions at  Blythe  and  some  at  the  country  appointments ; 
about  twenty  at  Wingham,  a  village  of  about  250  inhabi- 
tants, springing  up  as  by  magic  in  the  midst  of  the 
woods.  A  few  zealous  friends  are  looking  for  a  church 
site,  hoping  to  remove  from  the  "  upper  room  "  gener- 
ously provided  by  Mr.  T.  G.  Jackson,  merchant,  into  a 
commodious  church.' 

This  region  was  a  part  of  the  Morris  Mission,  and  was 
supplied  from  Clinton,  where  Alexander  Campbell  was 
stationed  in  1854.  He  sent  his  colleague,  John  Hough, 
into  the  country  around  Wingham.  Among  the  first 
Methodists  there  were  Adam  Reid  and  his  wife,  who 
settled  there  in  1854,  and  whom  the  writer  had  the 
pleasure  of  meeting  near  Wingham  last  year — 1909 — 
then  82  years  of  age,  one  of  the  early  leaders,  and  father 
of  the  Toronto  artist,  Mr.  George  A.  Reid,  whose  paint- 
ings— "  The  Closing  of  the  Mortgage  "  and  others — have 
made  his  name  famous.  Another  son  is  Mr.  Thomas 
A.  Reid,  Principal  of  the  Public  Schools,  Owen  Sound. 

Another  name  connects  this  part  of  the  country  with 
early  days.  Mr.  Nathaniel  Burwash,  brother  of  Mr. 
Adam  Burwash,  who  is  mentioned  in  Vol,  I.,  page  203, 
left  the  Ottawa  region  in  1852  and  settled  in  the  Town- 
ship of  Bruce,  to  take  his  share  with  early  Methodist 
workers.  There  Mrs.  Burwash  died  in  1876,  and  he  in 
1880.  They  are  represented  by  a  son,  the  Rev. 
Nathaniel  S.  Burwash. 

In  1863  Mr.  James  Lee  came  to  Listowel — then  a  part 
of  the  Elma  and  Wallace  Mission — and  assisted  Mr.  Wm. 
McKenny  in  finishing  a  small  frame  church.  Mrs.  J- 
M.  Scott  and  Mr.  Jacob  Large,  of  Large's  appointment — 
father  of  Mr.  John  Large,  Toronto,  and  Mr.  Jacob  Large, 
Listowel — were  among  the  early  and  steadfast  helpers. 

Lucknow — In  1837  Mr.  Daniel  Webster  came  from 
Tipperary,  Ireland,  to  Norval,  Ont.,  and  thence  to  Luck- 

196 


MISSIONS  BECOME  CIRCUITS 

now  in  1854,  when  the  country  was  a  wilderness.  At 
Racket's  schoolhouse,  five  miles  out,  the  Wesleyans,  New 
Connexion  and  Presbyterians  began  services  about  i860. 
The  Revs.  David  Ryan,  Wesleyan,  and  James  Caswell, 
New  Connexion,  were  some  of  the  earliest  preachers. 

The  first  leader  in  Lucknow  was  Mr.  Thomas  Steven- 
son. Daniel  Webster  had  five  sons — James,  Robert, 
Thomas,  Daniel,  and  Richard;  also  five  daughters,  all 
save  one  living  near  Lucknow,  and  members  of  the 
Methodist  Church. 

Goderich  has  long  been  the  central  point  of  an  exten- 
sive district,  and  many  of  the  early  ministers  are  well 
remembered' — John  Beatty,  John  Armstrong,  John  K. 
Williston,  Th.  Fawcett,  James  Norris,  John  Bredin,  John 
Gundy,  Henry  Byers,  John  Hunt,  George  Kennedy,  Thos. 
Williams,  John  Williams,  James  Gray,  John  G.  Laird, 
Samuel  Fear,  Joel  Briggs,  Charles  Silvester,  etc.,  up  to 
1855,  when  John  S.  Evans  was  appointed.  About  that 
time  Mr.  Wm.  Acheson,  Mr,  George  Cox,  leader,  Mr. 
Geo.  Acheson,  S.  S.  Supt,,  and  their  wives,  were  among 
the  chief  workers  in  the  little  frame  church,  and  helpers 
in  building  the  new  brick  church  in  1859.  At  that  time 
there  was  a  New  Connexion  Church,  in  which  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Wm.  Swafield  were  early  members.  There  was 
also  an  M.  E.  Church.  About  1850  the  Rev.  Samuel 
Fear,  of  Goderich,  started  an  appointment  in  Mr.  James 
Maitland's  house,  a  mile  or  two  from  the  present  site 
of  Seaforth,  where  Mr.  Young,  Mr.  Sparling,  Mrs. 
Cluff,  and  others  assisted  in  building  a  small  church.  In 
i860  the  Rev.  John  Mills,  of  Clinton,  preached  in  Mr. 
John  Beatty's  house.  A  small  frame  church  was  built  in 
1861,  and  the  present  church  in  1877. 

The  sudden  death  of  the  Rev.  Wm.  L.  Thornton, 
M.A.,  on  the  5th  of  March,  1865,  was  the  cause  of  deep 
and  widespread  grief.  As  President  of  three  Confer- 
ences he  held  a  deservedly  high  place  in  the  esteem  and 

197 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

affection  of  Methodist  preachers,  and  of  the  people  as 
well.  He  had  been  only  three  weeks  laid  aside  from 
active  duties,  and  his  death  was  unexpected.  "  My 
mercies  abound !  "  were  probably  his  last  words.  The 
Guardian  of  April  5th  was  in  deep  mourning  for  him. 

The  opening  of  a  new  brick  church  in  Barrie,  on  the 
9th  of  April,  1865,  by  the  Rev.  Drs.  Wood,  Jeffers,  and 
Green,  invites  to  retrospection: 

'  The  nucleus  of  Methodism  west  of  Lake  Simcoe  was 
found  on  Yellow  Head  Island,  among  the  Indians,  and 
then  nursed  at  Coldwater  and  Orillia.  There  from  1828 
to  1835  labored  in  succession  Revs.  John  Beatty,  John  B. 
Attwood,  Cyrus  R.  Allison,  Gilbert  Miller  and  Samuel 
Belton.  Occasionally  they  made  their  way  through  the 
woods  to  the  township  of  Vespra,  in  which  is  the  town 
of  Barrie.  At  the  Conference  of  1835  Dr.  Stinson, 
Superintendent  of  Missions,  said  to  Rev.  Jonathan 
Scott :  "  You  are  given  charge  of  the  Indian  Mission  at 
Lake  Simcoe,  Coldwater,  and  the  townships  around ;  you 
shall  have  a  colleague.  Form  a  circuit."  Mr.  Scott  dur- 
ing four  years  had  for  colleagues  David  Hardie,  Th. 
McMullen  and  Wellington  Jeffers.  The  field  was  ten 
townships,  and  at  the  end  of  four  years  there  were  twelve 
classes,  besides  the  Indians,  and  twenty-four  appoint- 
ments, of  which  Barrie  was  one,  with  a  room  in  a  log 
dwelling  for  a  church.  Later  the  mission  was  named 
"  Lake  Simcoe,  Coldwater  and  Barrie."  In  1841  it  was 
called  the  "  Barrie  Mission."  Ten  years  later  Barrie  was 
the  home  of  the  Chairman,  Rev.  Lewis  Warner,  and  of 
others  in  succession.  The  Lake  Simcoe  Mission  has  fur- 
nished territory  for  seven  circuits  and  given  several 
recruits  to  the  Methodist  Conference.'    Jonathan  Scott. 

Beaverton. — In  the  month  of  August,  1862,  I  preached 

the  first  Methodist  sermon  in  Beaverton  and  organized 
a  class  of  six  members.  As  the  appointments  on  the 
mission  were  several  miles  apart,  and  the  roads  rough, 
in  many  places  through  the  bush,  with  only  blazed  tracks, 
and  to  reach  the  appointments  furthest  north,  in  Garden 
and  Dalton,  the  lake  had  to  be  crossed  in  a  log  canoe, 
the  only  craft  available,  I  could  hold  only  service  once 

198 


MISSIONS   BECOME  CIRCUITS 

in  every  three  weeks,  except  in  the  Mara  church, 
where  I  preached  every  Sunday  morning.  The  peo- 
ple were  not  possessed  of  much  of  this  world's 
goods;  the  receipts  at  our  first  Quarterly  Meeting  were 
$7.10  in  cash  and  $16  in  kine,  second  quarter  $38.67, 
third  quarter  $42.90,  fourth  quarter  $55.44,  a  total  of 
$160.11,  which,  with  a  small  grant  from  Mission  Fund, 
paid  rent,  horse-keep  and  gave  about  $200  for  family 
expenses.  But  they  were  united,  kind-hearted  and  loyal 
to  Methodism.  God  blessed  my  labors  and  gave  me  the 
joy  of  seeing  a  goodly  number  of  conversions.  I  left 
for  my  successor  a  membership  of  "]"],  and  ten  appoint- 
ments in  six  townships.  During  the  two  years  I  travelled 
7,677  miles,  of  which  I  walked,  when  the  roads  were  too 
bad  to  take  my  horse,  564  miles.'    Geo.  H.  Cornish. 

'  On  the  Perth  Circuit  obstacles  and  prejudices  are 
giving  way  to  prosperity.  Some  of  our  thirteen  appoint- 
ments were  commenced  forty  years  ago,  nine  during  the 
.past  three  years — a  proof  of  the  energy  of  our  pastor, 
the  Rev.  Amos  E.  Russ,  M.A.  We  have  five  churches 
and  two  being  built.  At  Tay  River  the  schoolhouse,  in 
which  a  protracted  meeting  was  in  progress,  was  burned. 
Mr.  Russ  determined  to  have  a  church.  In  a  few  months 
it  was  opened  and  nearly  paid  for.  At  Harper's  7th  line 
of  Bathurst,  two  years  ago,  about  twenty  new  members 
were  added  and  a  church  built.  A  good  revival  at  the 
Ferry  secured  a  large  increase  of  members  and  the  erec- 
tion of  a  stone  church.  The  2nd  line  of  Drummond  is 
now  doing  what  should  have  been  done  twenty  years 
ago — building  a  fine  stone  church  The  members,  quick- 
ened by  revival  meetings,  determined  to  arise  and  build. 
A  new  appointment  was  opened  at  Port  Elmsley  a  year 
and  a  half  ago.  The  few  members,  increased  by  a  revival, 
are  now  building  a  stone  church.  The  Hargrave  church 
is  out  of  debt,  and  with  other  places  is  proving  the  wis- 
dom of  the  itinerant  system.  Perth,  in  the  meetings 
held  and  the  power  of  the  Spirit  manifest,  forms  a  pleas- 
ing contrast  to  a  few  years  ago.  Many  brethren  of  the 
town  have  greatly  helped  other  places.  Three  years  ago 
the  Quarterly  Meeting,  with  only  143  members,  asked  for 

199 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

a  second  preacher,  and  the  increase  has  abundantly  justi- 
fied the  venture.' 

At  the  recent  Convocation,  Victoria  College,  eighty 
students  graduated  in  Arts  and  twenty  in  Medicine. 
With  the  removal  of  the  debt  and  an  increasing  attend- 
ance, prospects  are  brightening. 

The  Rev.  George  McDougall  reports  remarkable  peace 
negotiations  between  the  Blackfeet  and  Cree  Indians. 
The  Blackfeet  had  carried  off  many  of  the  Cree  horses. 
The  old  Cree  Chief  read  to  his  warriors  the  account  of 
Christ  calming  the  waters,  and  proposed  a  friendly  visit 
to  the  Blackfeet  camp.  "  He  who  stilled  the  waters  can 
save  us,"  said  the  Chief,  as  he  set  off  with  his  com- 
panions. The  Blackfeet,  with  guns  and  war-whoops, 
rushed  out  to  meet  them ;  but  seeing  the  old  Chief  hold- 
ing a  book  instead  of  a  gun,  they  halted  and  asked, 
"  Who  are  you  ?"  After  a  little  conversation  the  Crees 
were  asked  into  the  camp  and  entertained.  The  mis- 
sionary was  invited  to  come  and  negotiate  a  peace. 
The  field  in  which  we  represent  Christianity  is  larger 
than  Western  Canada.  Give  us  two  more  active  laborers 
and,  with  the  blessing  of  heaven,  the  Blackfeet  and  the 
Crees  will  soon  be  Christian  too.' 

Since  last  Conference  new  churches  have  been  built 
at  Collingwood,  Waterloo,  C.E.,  Mono,  Victoria,  East- 
ville,  Kinsale,  Grimsby,  Sarnia,  Wardsville  Barrie, 
Cooksville,  Belleville,  etc. 

The  opening  of  the  spacious  and  beautiful 
Bridge  St.  Church,  Belleville,  was  an  occasion 
of  very  deep  interest.  On  the  first  Sunday,  May 
2 1st,  1865,  sermons  were  preached  by  Rev.  Drs.  Wood, 
Taylor  and  Douglas;  on  the  second  Sunday  by  Revs. 
E.  B.  Harper,  M.A.,  N.  Burwash,  B.A.,  and  Wm.  Ste- 
phenson. The  church  is  built  of  stone,  70x100  feet,  and 
tower.  It  stands  on  a  central  site,  commanding  a  fine 
view  of  the  Bay. 

200 


1.  Cade,  Robt.,  U.I).  "J.   Markham,  Rev.  .lo.seph         3.  SuUieilaiid,  Alox  ,]).!). 

4.  Meachain,  Geo.  M.,  1).  D.      5.  Mrs.  G.  M.  Meaohaiu  6.  Andrews,  Rev.  Alfred 

7.   Ryokman,  K.B.,  1)1).  8.   Parker,  \V.  R.,  1)D.  9.   Bond,  Rev.  Stephen 


CHAPTER  XVII. 
1865-6. 

THE  AMERICAN  CENTENARY. 

Conference,  London — Elliott — Burns — Accident — Muskoka — Flan- 
ders— Insanity — Centenary — Sackville — Fenians —  Conference, 
Montreal,  1866 — Arthur — Loyalty-^A  Hundred  Years — Sym- 
pathy —  Union  —  Ritualism  —  Ernestown  —  Carrol — Eastern 
Townships — Kapelle. 

The  Conference  of  1865  was  opened  in  London  on  the 
7th  of  June,  by  the  Rev.  S.  D.  Rice,  Co-Delegate.  About 
200  ministers  were  present.  Mr.  Rice  spoke  with  deep 
emotion  of  the  sudden  death  of  President  Thornton,  The 
Rev.  Richard  Jones  was  introduced  as  his  successor,  and 
the  Rev.  Asahel  Hurlburt  as  Co-Delegate. 

The  Rev.  John  Hunt  was  elected  Secretary,  the 
Rev.  Wm.  Scott,  Assistant,  and  the  Rev.  J.  S.  Evans, 
Journal  Secretary. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Pickard,  Delegate  from  the  Eastern  Con- 
ference; the  Revs.  Ch.  Elliott,  D.D.,  George  Peck,  D.D., 
from  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  U.S.,  and  the 
Rev.  Dr.  Eddy,  were  introduced. 

Into  full  connection — Thomas  Cullen,  Weslev  Casson, 
Th.  Derrick,  Robt.  W.  Ferrier,  M.A.,  Thomas  Garbutt, 
Wm.  Galbraith,  Samuel  J.  Hunter,  Le  Roy  Hooker,  Hugh 
Johnston,  B.A.,  Th.  Kelly,  Daniel  V.  Lucas,  Alexander 
Lester,  Joshua  P.  Lewis,  Samuel  Might,  Alfred  McCann, 
Wm.  S.  McCullough,  B.A.,  Wm.  Tucker,  Ebenezer 
Teskey,  Th.  G.  Williams,  Isaac  Weldon,  Wm.  C.  Wash- 
ington, B.A. 

Seventeen  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — William  Dignam,  July  22nd,  1864,  aged  54  years. 
Benj.  Hitchcock,  Oct.  12th,  1864,  aged  80  years. 
Thos.  Bevitt,  Feb.  5th,  1865,  aged  69  years. 
Robt.  Thompson,  March  15,  1865,  aged  29  years. 
201 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Total  number  of  members,  56,395 ;  increase,  643. 
Book  Stczi'ard — Rev.  Samuel  Rose. 
Editor — Rev.  Wellington  Jeffers,  D.D. 

A  communication  was  received  from  the  New  Con- 
nexion Conference,  expressing  hope  of  a  general  Union 
of  the  Methodist  Churches  in  Canada. 

A  Committee  on  Union  was  appointed. 

The  ministers  agreed  to  the  assessment  of  one  per 
cent,  on  their  salaries  in  aid  of  Victoria  College, 

The  Rev.  Charles  Elliott,  D.D.,  preached  the  ordina- 
tion sermon,  and  the  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson  a  funeral  sermon 
in  remembrance  of  the  Rev.  W.  L.  Thornton,  M.A.  The 
Rev.  Dr.  Jeffers  was  nominated  as  Co-Delegate  for  next 
year. 

The  Great  St.  James'  St.  Church,  Montreal,  was 
chosen  as  the  place  of  meeting  for  next  Conference. 

The  coming  of  distinguished  American  Delegates,  so 
soon  after  the  close  of  the  long-continued  and  disastrous 
civil  war,  was  an  indication  of  the  close  friendship  exist- 
ing between  American  and  Canadian  Methodism,  and 
the  addresses  delivered  give  assurance  of  the  permanence 
'  of  that  friendship. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Charles  Elliott,  President  of  the  Iowa 
University,  was  in  quest  of  someone  who  should  become 
his  successor  in  that  position,  and  his  choice  fell  upon 
the  Rev.  Alex.  Burns,  B.A.,  who  consented  to  go. 

This  Conference  will  be  remembered  as  one  of  sur- 
passing interest  and  deep  spirituality.  The  ample  and 
generous  hospitality  of  the  people  of  London  was  duly 
appreciated. 

So  closely  did  the  members  of  Conference  feel  them- 
selves bound  to  each  other  that  the  consideration  of 
division  into  several  conferences  was  deferred  to  some 
more  urgent  season. 

One  pang  of  deep  sorrow  broke  in  upon  the  general 
happiness,   caused   by   a   sad   drowning   fatality   at   the 

202 


THE  AMERICAN  CENTENARY 

Desjardins  Canal,  Dundas,  on  the  13th  of  June.  Five 
young  persons — Messrs.  Edwin  W.  Coleman  and  George 
Creighton,  the  Misses  Carrie  Coleman,  Mary  Creighton, 
and  Kate  Gage' — were  capsized  and  all  drowned  except 
Mr.  Creighton.  George  and  Mary  were  son  and  daugh- 
ter of  the  Rev.  Kennedy  Creighton,  then  at  Conference. 
The  Conference  adjourned  and  repaired  to  the  station 
in  sympathy  with  the  stricken  father,  to  meet  the  lifeless 
body  of  his  beloved  daughter.  She  was  buried  in  the 
London  Cemetery. 

The  largest  funeral  procession  ever  seen  in  Dundas 
followed  the  remains  of  Edwin  and  Carrie  Coleman  to 
their  last  resting-place;  and  a  similarly  large  company 
attended  the  funeral  of  Miss  Kate  Gage  to  the  Hamilton 
Cemetery.  The  sorrowing  friends  had  comfort  in  the 
assurance  that  their  loved  ones  were  "  not  lost,  but  gone 
before." 

The  modest  estimate  of  £100,000  from  the  English 
Missionary  Jubilee  has  been  more  than  doubled. 

Two  new  circuits  have  been  formed  in  Toronto,  the 
Elm  St.  Church  being  detached  from  the  Richmond  St.,. 
and  Yorkville  from  the  Adelaide  St.  Church. 

Shefford,  Oct.  13th,  1865:  '  The  mournful  news  comes 
by  telegraph  of  the  sudden  death  of  the  Rev.  Rufus  A. 
Flanders,  Chairman  of  the  Stanstead  District,  in  Boston, 
whither  he  had  gone  last  week  on  business.  He  was  but 
48  years  of  age,  a  laborious  and  faithful  minister,  a  most 
affectionate  husband  and  father.  Mr.  Flanders  took  cold 
the  morning  he  left  home,  waiting  two  hours  at  the  sta- 
tion, in  the  cold  and  rain,  and  probably  died  of  pneu- 
monia. The  Rev.  James  Graham,  of  Yonge  St.  South, 
was  sent  to  supply  Mr.  Flanders'  place. 

During  the  summer  the  Rev.  Thomas  Woolsey 
visited  England,  attended  many  missionary  meetings,  had 
a  good  supply  of  hymns  and  catechisms  printed  in  the 

203 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Cree    language,    received    numerous    presents    for    the 
missions,  and  reached  Toronto  safely  in  November. 

The  Report  of  Dr.  Workman,  Supt.  of  the  Toronto 
Lunatic  Asylum,  1864,  furnishes  some  important  sta- 
tistics regarding  nationality,  marriage,  and  religion — of 
995  patients  admitted  during  six  years — 1859  to  1864. 

Of  Canadian  birth 266 

Of  Irish  birth    353 

Of  Scotch  birth   149 

Of  English  birth    143 

Of  United  States  birth 43 

Of  all  other  countries  41 

The  Canadian  population  consists  of: 

Irish 191,231 

English 1 14,290 

Scotch 98,792 

Other  countries   88,890 

493.203 
Canadian 902,879 

The  Irish,  English  and  Scotch — 404,313 — or  29  per 
cent,  of  the  population,  sent  in  dy  per  cent,  of  the 
patients ;  while  the  Canadian  65  per  cent,  of  the  popula- 
tion sent  in  only  about  27  per  cent,  of  patients.  Since 
1841  the  following  have  been  admitted: 

Men.       Women.        Total. 

Married 731  950  1,681 

Single 915  518  1,433 

1,646  1,468  3,114 
In  regard  to  religion: 

English    Church    474  28.36  per  cent. 

Church  of  Rome  412  23.79  per  cent. 

Presbyterians 422  24.37  P^^  cent. 

Methodists 274  15-65  per  cent. 

All  others 153  8.83  per  cent. 

Dr.  Workman  adds : 

"  Now  I  doubt  not  all  except  the  Methodists  will  be 
ready   to   affirm   that    religion    has    nothing   to    do   with 

204 


THE  AMERICAN  CENTENARY 

insanity.  But  they — Methodists — I  honestly  believe 
may  with  perfect  truth  and  justice  contend,  in  the  face 
of  the  figures  now  before  them,  that  religion — their  re- 
ligion— has  much  to  do  with  insanity ;  not,  however, 
with  its  production,  but  with  its  prevention." 

Dr.  Workman  was  not  a  Methodist,  and  we  have 
copied  the  above  items  from  his  Report  as  an  offset  to 
statements  frequently  made  to  the  disparagement  of 
Methodism.  Methodists  and  others  will  see  how  ground- 
less are  such  aspersions. 

"  The  Baptist  Freeman  insists  that  the  Israelites  had 
a  '  complete  immersion '  in  the  cloud  and  in  the  sea. 
Our  contemporary  is  mistaken ;  they  were  sprinkled ;  it 
was  the  Egyptians  who  had  the  '  complete  immersion.'  " 
— Guardian. 

The  Rev.  Geo.  H.  Cornish  is  preparing  ""  A  Handbook 
of  Canadian  Methodism,"  containing  the  names  of  all 
the  preachers  in  connection  with  Canadian  Methodism 
from  1790  up  to  the  present  year,  the  circuits  they  have 
traveled,  and  much  more  important  information. 

At  the  request  of  the  Centenary  Board,  the  Rev.  Dr. 
Stevens  has  written  "  The  Centenary  of  American  Meth- 
odism." The  celebration  will  begin  with  the  first  Sabbath 
of  1866,  and  Canadian  Methodists  should  enter  into  it 
with  heartfelt  gratitude. 

The  male  department  of  the  Sackville  Academy,  N.B., 
was  burned  on  the  i6th  of  January,  1866. 

The  Methodist  Church,  Quebec,  one  of  the  finest 
buildings  in  the  city,  was  greatly  damaged  by  fire.  It 
was  built  in  1849,  costing  about  £13,000,  and  renovated 
two  years  ago.  The  insurance — £5,600 — may  cover  the 
damage. 

The  Rev.  Alex.  Burns,  B.A.,  writes  from  Mt.  Pleasant, 
'Iowa,  on  behalf  of  Dr.  Elliott,  acknowledging  the  Union 
Jack  sent  him  from  Canada. 

'  The  Dr.  has  had  a  slight  stroke  of  paralysis.  A 
205 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

glorious  revival  is  progressing  in  both  churches ;  about 
twenty  students  converted,  reminding  me  of  old  Vic- 
toria, in  the  days  of  Tew,  Parker,  Ryckman  and  Hen- 
derson. I  have  received  letters  from  young  men,  inquir- 
ing about  openings.  These  Conferences  are  full.  If 
young  men  come  to  the  United  States  expecting  large 
salaries  and  speedy  promotion,  they  may  expect  disap- 
pointment. Showers  of  mercy  are  descending  upon  the 
churches.  It  is  to  be  a  year  of  thankofferings  and 
conversions.' 

At  the  invitation  of  the  President,  many  ministers  and 
members  attended  a  meeting  of  the  Conference  Execu- 
tive, in  Kingston,  Feb.  28th,  to  consider  the  steps  to  be 
taken  in  Canada  in  connection  with  the  American  Cen- 
tenary Celebration.  A  series  of  resolutions  was 
adopted,  leaving  final  arrangements  to  next  Conference. 

Rumors  of  an  intended  Fenian  invasion  of  Canada 
become   more  alarming. 

The  Rev.  George  Scott,  President  of  the  approaching 
Canada  Conference,  arrived  in  Halifax  on  the  7th  of 
May  and  reached  Toronto  on  the  26th.  The  next  day 
he  preached  in  the  Adelaide  St.  and  Richmond  St. 
churches.  From  the  College  at  Sackville  he  received  the 
degree  of  Doctor  of  Divinity. 

The  Rev.  A.  Browning  reports  $3,000  raised  for  all 
purposes,  in  Victoria,  during  the  year. 

Conference  gatherings  are  threatened  with  interrup- 
tion through  actual  Fenian  invasions.  On  the  ist  of 
June  about  1,500  Fenians  crossed  from  Buffalo  to  Fort 
Erie,  but  met  a  reception  from  Canadian  troops,  such 
as  they  had  not  expected.  After  a  few  skirmishes  and 
the  loss  of  some  lives,  the  raiders  made  a  hasty  retreat 
across  the  river — all  save  a  host  of  prisoners  held  as 
hostages  for  future  good  behavior.  Another  invasion, 
made  in  the  east,  upon  St.  Albans,  was  speedily  repulsed. 
While  the  excitement  was  at  its  height  and  volunteers 
being  hurried  to  exposed  points.  Conference  met,  June 

206 


THE  AMERICAN  CENTENARY 

6th,  1866,  in  Great  St.  James'  St.  Church,  Montreal.  The 
Rev.  Dr.  Scott  took  the  chair,  and  the  Rev.  George 
Young  was  elected  Secretary. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Jeffers  was  introduced  as  Co-Delegate. 

Received  into  full  connection — Moses  M.  Johnson, 
Thomas  Kelly,  Stephen  Kapelle,  John  B.  Keagy,  B.A., 
George  Robson,  Wm.  Taylor,  Benjamin  Clement,  Nelson 
Burns,  B.A.,  Geo.  M.  Brown,  George  Leach,  Marmaduke 
Pearson,  Ed.  Morrow,  B.A.,  Cornelius  A.  Jones,  William 
Jackson,  Thomas  Cullen,  Alfred  H.  Reynar,  B.A.,  Alex. 
Hardie,  B.A.,  Thomas  Garbutt,  Webster  W  Leach,  Wm. 
Halstead,  John  F.  German,  B.A.,  John  Russell,  Erastus 
Curry,  Hugh  Cairns,  Henry  W.  Maxwell. 

Ten  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — Rufus  A.  Flanders,  Oct.  12,  1865,  aged  48  years. 
Alexander  Campbell,  Dec.  31st,  aged  45  years. 
Wm.  H.  Winans,  May  30th,  1866,  aged  24  years. 

There  was  an  increase  of  over  800  members. 

After  an  early  love-feast  the  ordination  sermon  was 
preached  by  Dr.  Scott.  In  the  evening  Dr.  Ryerson 
preached.  Many  of  the  city  pulpits  were  occupied  by 
members  of  Conference.  To  Montreal-  Methodism,  Con- 
ference Sunday  was  a  high  day.  The  proposed  division 
of  Conference  was  referred  to  the  District  Meetings  and 
Conference  Executive  for  further  consideration.  The 
Centenary  Celebration  was  considered  and  referred  to 
the  Executive  for  final  arrangements.  The  Editor  and 
Book  Steward  were  re-elected. 

The  Rev.  James  Elliott  was  nominated  as  President 
for  next  year,  and  the  Rev.  Samuel  Rose  as  Co-Delegate. 

The  Revs.  R.  Jones  and  Dr.  Jefifers  were  appointed 
Delegates   to   the   Eastern  Conference. 

A  Committee  on  Union  was  appointed. 

The  Hamilton  Female  College  reported  another  suc- 
cessful year ;  an  average  of  79  boarders  and  fifty  day- 
pupils  ;  interest  paid,  liabilities  reduced  by  $1,257,  and 
$2,600  expended  for  pianos. 

207 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  Conference  was  invited  to  a  Breakfast  on  Friday 
morning.  James  A.  Mathewson,  Esq.,  spoke  on  behalf 
of  Montreal  Methodists ;  Dr.  Green  and  others  responded. 

In  regard  to  the  Centenary  Fund,  the  Conference 
Executive  recommended  that  of  the  amount  raised,  $6,000 
be  paid  to  the  Irish  Educational  Fund ;  one-half  of  the 
balance  to  the  Superannuation  Fund,  and  the  remainder 
to  the  education  of  candidates  for  the  ministry. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Friday  evening. 

The  Conference  of  Eastern  British  America  was  held 
in  St.  John,  N.B.,  commencing  on  the  27th  of  June, 
1866.  The  Rev.  Dr.  Scott  presided.  The  Rev.  Dr. 
Butler,  from  India,  was  one  of  the  visitors.  The  Rev. 
John  B.  Strong,  the  first  English  Methodist  minister 
sent  to  Quebec — 1813 — was  there;  also  the  Rev.  Henry 
Pope,  another  early  minister.  Thirteen  young  men  were 
ordained  and  seven  received  on  trial.  The  Canadian 
delegates  were  received  with  honor.  Number  of  mem- 
bers, 15,275;  on  trial,  1,351.  Since  the  organization  of 
the  Eastern  Conference  in  1856  the  number  of  ministers 
has  increased  from  95  to  153;  the  members  from  12,885 
to  15,275  ;  the  Missionary  Fund  from  $10,955  to  $12,374; 
Contingent,  from  $1,021  to  $1,186;  Educational,  from 
$319  to  $686.  Several  churches  and  parsonages  have 
been  built. 

During  the  summer  camp-meetings  were  held  on 
many  circuits — Barrie,  Howick,  Grimsby,  St.  Clair, 
Niagara,  Kingsville,  Belleville,  Perth,  etc. 

The  ministers  of  the  Brantford  District  met  to  con- 
sider "  The  hindrances  to  the  work  of  God,  and  means 
for  their  removal."     Two  days  were  spent  profitably. 

"  Do  not  the  times  present  an  unusual  number  of  things 
to  interest,  excite,  and  turn  attention  from  religion? 
Discoveries,  inventions,  new  industries,  speculations  and 
enterprises,  competition,  conflicts  of  political  parties,  war 
clouds,  with  other  events  and  issues  are  keeping  com- 

208 


THE  AMERICAN  CENTENARY 

mimities    in    a    ferment,    and    religion    is    in    danger   of 
having  a  secondary  place  in  men's  hearts." — Guardian. 

The  Rev.  Wm.  Arthur,  M.A.,  was  elected  President  of 
the  English  Conference,  and  the  Rev.  John  Farrar, 
Secretary. 

'  Mr.  Arthur  is  a  power,  not  in  Methodism  only,  but  in 
the  country  at  large.  No  other  minister  among  us  has 
taken  so  prominent  a  part  in  matters  affecting  the  gen- 
eral welfare  of  mankind.  From  the  west  of  Ireland, 
where  he  was  born,  he  proceeded  to  the  Theological 
Institution  in  1837 ;  thence  to  India,  France,  and  back  to 
England,  where  he  became  one  of  the  General  Secre- 
taries of  Missions.' 

The  Rev.  Dr.  -Scott,  addressing  the  English  Confer- 
ence on  his  visit  to  Canada,  said : 

'  The  loyalty  of  Canadians  equals,  if  it  does  not  sur- 
pass, anything  to  be  seen  in  our  own  country.  Of  this  we 
had  an  illustration  on  the  Queen's  Birthday.  I  was  in 
Toronto  on  the  ist  of  June,  when  the  Fenians  crossed  to 
Fort  Erie,  and  during  the  next  few  days  was  going  east- 
ward. The  excitement  and  determination  to  repel  the 
invaders  was  everywhere.  The  abortive  attempt  will  help 
forward  the  Confederation  of  the  Provinces.  Methodism 
there  constitutes  a  community  second  to  no  other.  The 
Montreal  Conference  reported  over  500  itinerants  and 
56,768  members.' 

The  contrast  between  the  political,  moral  and  religious 
condition  of  the  world  a  hundred  years  ago  and  the 
present  calls  for  a  grateful  and  joyful  Centenary  Cele- 
bration. Wesley  and  his  helpers  were  for  many  years 
engaged  in  a  fierce  struggle  with  frigid  ecclesiasticism, 
and  breaking  up  the  sterile  soil  of  England  with  the 
newly-sharpened  Gospel  plough,  and  were  garnering  rich 
spiritual  harvests  from  their  toilsome  sowing.  Whit- 
field's preaching,  as  Green  says,  was  "  such  as 
England  had  never  heard  before — theatrical,  extrava- 
gant, often  commonplace,  but  hushing  all  criticism  by  its 
intense  reality,  its  earnestness  of  belief,  its  deep,  trem- 
14  209 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

ulous  sympathy  with  the  sins  and  sorrows  of  mankind." 
He  was  in  many  cases  a  forerunner  to  Wesley,  whose 
deeper  culture  and  watchful  oversight  insured  rich  re- 
sults for  generations  to  come.  Clive's  brilliant  victories 
on  the  sunny  steppes  of  India,  and  Wolfe's  startling 
conquests  in  the  New  World  had  added  immense  areas 
to  the  British  Empire  and  to  the  sway  of 
Anglo-Saxon  civilization.  Irritating  grievances  were 
disturbing  the  New  England  Colonies,  foment- 
ing disaffection,  the  prelude  to  revolution  and 
independence.  The  germ  of  Methodism  planted  in 
New  York  in  1766  was  taking  root,  but  no  one  could 
foresee  whereunto  it  should  grow  in  a  hundred  years, 
with  the  blessing  of  God  upon  an  earnest  ministry  and  a 
sympathetic  co-operating  laity,  outstripping  older  forms 
of  Christianity  and  attaining  a  foremost  position  among 
the  churches  of  the  western  world.  The  high  vantage- 
ground  reached  has  not  been  won  without  patient,  self- 
sacrificing  toil ;  but  the  position  and  prospects  of  Meth- 
odism after  a  hundred  years'  testing  on  this  continent 
afford  most  encouraging  assurance  of  future  and  per- 
petual progress.  Though  Canada  Methodism  at  this 
date — 1866 — lacks  some  twenty  years  of  completing  its 
century,  it  can  heartily  join  hands  with  the  Church  which 
gave  it  birth  in  grateful  retrospect  and  joyful  thanks- 
giving. Its  honorable  stand  among  the  churches,  its 
efforts  along  lines  of  education  and  morality,  its  itinerant 
labors  among  the  earliest  settlers  in  the  forests,  its  main- 
tenance of  effective,  aggressive  evangelization,  afford 
abundant  reason  for  thanksgiving  to  the  God  of  all  grace. 

The  spirit  and  polity  of  the  Methodist  Church  have 
been  proved  admirably  adapted  to  the  circumstances  and 
demands  of  a  new  country ;  and  they  will  not  fail  to 
meet  the  conditions  of  greater  material  progress  and 
increasing  educational  and  industrial  development. 

From  the  British  Conference: 
210 


THE  AMERICAN  CENTENARY 

'  We  regard  with  deep  interest  your  Centenary  move- 
ment. Our  own  Centenary  of  1839  imparted  a  mighty 
impulse  to  our  spiritual  progress,  and  we  trust  the  trans- 
Atlantic  Centenary,  celebrating  the  first  planting  of  the 
seed  of  A'lethodism  on  your  continent,  will  be  the  means 
of  communicating  a  similar  impulse. 

'  The  class-meeting  has  been  a  vital  factor  in  Meth- 
odism, not  in  its  beginning  only,  but  in  its  widest  ac- 
tivities'; a  means  of  grace  which  true  Methodists  will 
continue  to  prize.  .  .  .  On  those  who  have  become 
rich,  intelligent  or  conspicuous,  a  weighty  responsibility 
rests  in  regard  to  their  example.  .  .  .  To  play  well 
our  part,  to  quit  ourselves  like  men — such  men  as  the 
early  Methodists  were — to  be  in  the  front  rank  of  intelli- 
gence, yet  marked  by  simple,  earnest  piety ;  to  educate, 
elevate  and  regenerate  the  masses  is  not  easy,  but  it  is 
the  work  we  are  called  to  do.' 

Centenary  sermons  were  preached  in  Toronto  on  the 
2 1st  of  October,  and  public  meetings  followed.  Among 
the  speakers  was  Wm.  McArthur,  Esq.,  of  London,  Eng- 
land, one  of  the  Irish  Delegation.  The  contributions  in 
Richmond  St.  Church  were  nearly  $5,000.  Notices  of 
successful  meetings  are  coming  in  from  all  parts  of  the 
country. 

The  Rev.  Geo.  F.  Playter,  Canada's  Methodist  his- 
torian, died  on  the  24th  of  October,  1866,  at  the  age  of 
55*  years. 

The  "  Division  of  Conference  "  and  the  "  Union  of 
Methodist  Churches  "  are  kept  to  the  front  by  editorials 
and   frequent  correspondence. 

The  laying  of  the  corner-stone  of  the  new  Methodist 
Church,  Stanstead,  on  the  30th  of  October,  1866,  was  an 
event  of  more  than  local  interest.  The  first  estimate  was 
$10,000 — one-half  of  which  and  a  site  were  given 
by  Carlos  Pierce,  Esq.  But  the  "  Plans  and  Specifica- 
tions "  indicated  a  building  of  much  larger  pretensions. 
Two  or  three  times  there  was  a  doubling  up  of  sub- 
scriptions  to   meet   the   unexpected   outlay   of   $60,000, 

211 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

more  than  one-half  of  which  was  the  share  Mr.  Pierce 
generously  took  upon  himself.  The  fine  central  site,  the 
massive  granite  structure,  the  rich  mahogany  furnishings, 
the  ample  provision  for  congregation,  Sunday  School, 
and  social  means,  won  general  admiration. 

The  lowering  of  the  price  of  the  Christian  Guardian 
from  $2  to  $1.50,  in  clubs  of  ten,  for  1866,  did  not  double 
the  circulation,  as  many  expected,  the  increase  being  less 
than  2,000;  the  reduction,  therefore,  proved  a  loss  to  the 
Book  Room. 

The  income  of  the  Missionary  Society  for  1865-6  was 
$64,106,  an  increase  of  $11,000. 

Ritualism  in  Canada. — The  Bcho,Nov.  14,  1866,  says: 
"  Church  matters  at  the  present  time  are  in  far  from 
a  satisfactory  state  in  the  Canadian  dioceses.  The  great 
mass  of  the  younger  clergy,  educated  in  Canada,  are 
hankering  after  the  new-fangled  ritualism,  which  is 
creating  such  trouble  in  England.  The  importations,  as 
a  general  thing,  are  no  better — some  of  them  worse. 
The  laity  are  still  sound,  without  whose  countenance 
these  Romanizing  practices  cannot  be  introduced." 

Mr.  Carroll,  having  gone  to  Montreal  and  the  town- 
ships, writes : 

'At  Odelltown  a  revival  was  in  progress.  I  preached 
five  times,  assisted  at  the  Centenary  meeting,  and  left 
Bro.  W.  C.  Henderson  rejoicing  over  about  twenty  con- 
versions. The  meeting  at  La  Colle  was  one  of  the  best 
for  attendance,  heartiness,  music  and  money.  We  saw 
the  foundations  of  the  old  mill  where,  in  1812,  Col.  De 
Saliberry  turned  back  Gen.  Dearborn.  From  West  Farn- 
ham,  Bro.  Hiram  Fowler  conveyed  me  to  Sutton. 
Emerging  from  the  unprogressive  French  settlements,  we 
started  up  the  beautiful  valley  of  the  Yamaska,  past  com- 
fortable homes  and  well-cultivated  fields,  rising  into 
purer  air,  with  wider  horizon ;  mountains  in  the  distance 
and  two  beautiful  twin  villages — Cowansville  and 
Sweetsburgh — then  the  flickering  lights  of  Sutton  Plain, 
nestling  amid  the  mountains  and  lulled  by  the  tiny  north 
branch  of  the  majestic  Massisqui.  I  met  a  good  sister, 
Dunham,  a  Methodist  since  the  beginning  of  the  century, 

212 


THE  AMERICAN  CENTENARY 

who  told  me  she  had  entertained  the  Rev.  Fitch  Reid  in 
1820.  She  came  to  our  Centenary  meeting,  where  the 
giving  was  wonderful  for  the  place.  Being  unable  to 
reach  Freleighsburgh  for  the  next  evening,  Bro.  Wm. 
Scales  drove  me  to  his  parsonage,  at  Knowlton,  for 
dinner.  From  Brome  Centre  the  roads  diverge  in  various 
directions  through  the  most  beautiful  valleys,  amid  moun- 
tains and  lakes.  On  our  way  to  South  Bolton,  through 
the  Bolton  Pass,  the  scenery  can  scarcely  be  surpassed 
out  of  Switzerland.  Towards  evening  we  circle  the  lofty 
"  Owl's  Head,"  whose  summit  we  had  in  view  for  several 
days.  Benumbed  with  cold,  right  glad  were  we  to  catch 
a  glimpse  of  light  radiating  from  the  inviting  parsonage 
of  Bro.  Edmund  Sweet  and  his  wife — a  sister  of  Mrs. 
Scales,  worthy  daughters  of  Father  Kneeshaw,  of  St. 
Andrews.  From  my  window,  I  obtained  a  fine  view  of 
Lake  Memphra-Magog.  It  was  Saturday  morning,  and 
I  was  due  in  Stanstead  for  Sunday.  A  couple  of  lads 
rowed  me  over  the  lake  to  Georgeville,  and  an  old  Irish- 
man, for  seventy-five  cents,  drove  me  three  miles,  to 
Fitch  Bay,  the  residence  of  the  missionary — Moses 
Johnston — who,  at  the  sacrifice  of  leaving  his  precious 
young  wife  alone  for  the  night,  took  me  to  Stanstead. 
In  princely  quarters  my  exhausted  energies  were  so  far 
resuscitated  that  I  was  prepared  to  enjoy  the  love-feast, 
which  the  Rev.  W.  R.  Parker  is  seeking  to  revive  among 
the  people.  There  was  a  good  congregation,  good  sing- 
ing, and,  if  the  people  had  learned  to  kneel,  we  should 
have  felt  there  was  good  praying.  In  the  afternoon  a 
funeral,  then,  by  the  Rev.  John  Tomkins,  I  was  driven 
to  Hatley  for  evening  service,  in  a  well-kept  church,  with 
good  singing  and  liberal  giving.  Returning  on  Monday 
to  Stanstead,  I  noticed  with  delight  the  good  houses, 
well-cultivated  farms  and  fine  stock.  After  a  short  stay 
at  Lawyer  Colby's,  and  a  ride  of  fourteen  miles  with 
Bro.  Malcolm  McDonald,  we  were  at  Georgeville  for 
the  Centenary  meeting.  The  church  was  well  filled,  the 
singing  soul-stirring,  and  the  meeting  good.  This  is  the 
"  Copp's  Ferry,"  where  the  missionary,  Crawford, 
formed  the  first  class  in  the  original  Stanstead  Circuit 
in  1803,  in  which  were  Richard  Packard,  leader;  J.  A. 
Packard,  Sally  Packard,  Miss  Artemesia  Bullock,  Aliriam 
Bullock,  Wm.  Bullock,  Jr.,  Jeremiah,  Louis  and  Nancy 

213 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Lord.  On  our  return  to  Stanstead  the  corner-stone  of 
the  new  church  was  well  and  truly  laid  by  Mrs.  Pierce. 
The  evening  meeting,  with  Bro.  Borland,  Tomkins,  Sel- 
ley,  and  Sanderson,  was  abundantly  compensating.  To 
Hatley  I  was  conveyed  by  Bro.  Jos.  E.  Sanderson,  to 
whose  Centenary  meeting  at  Compton  I  would  have 
gladly  stayed  had  I  not  been  gazetted  for  Melbourne, 
whither  I  proceeded  by  train  down  the  beautiful  valley 
of  the  noble  St.  Francis  River,  through  the  pleasant 
towns  of  Lennoxville  and  Sherbrooke,  to  Richmond, 
whence  Bro.  Jeffrey  drove  me  quickly  to  the  Melbourne 
parsonage.  Everything  was  in  readiness  for  the  Cen- 
tenary meeting,  but,  owing  to  an  effort  in  progress  for 
the  Quebec  sufferers,  the  collection  was  deferred.  Next 
morning  I  was  driven  by  Bro.  Scott  to  Lawrenceville, 
and  thence,  by  an  energetic  young  Lawrence  to  Water- 
loo, on  time  for  the  meeting.  The  church,  for  site,  style 
and  finishing,  is  a  model,  and  results  were  good.  Our 
next  and  last  meeting  was  at  Three  Rivers — wondrously 
productive;  thence  to  Toronto,  after  three  weeks'  ab- 
sence and   1,200  miles  of  travel.' 

We  have  given  this  rather  lengthy  but  racy  sketch 
that  our  readers  may  catch  at  least  a  bird's-eye  glimpse 
of  the  far-famed  Eastern  Townships  from  the  pen  of 
a  ready  writer,  a  pioneer  and  a  veteran  among  Canadian 
itinerants. 

From  1804  to  1820  Stanstead,  Sherbrooke  and  the 
region  around  were  supplied  by  preachers  from  the 
M.  E.  Church,  U.S.— 

Joseph  Fairbank,  S.  Chamberlain,  Philip  Ayer,  Levi 
Walker,  Ch.  Virgin,  Elisha  Streeter,  S.  Briggs,  Jos. 
Dennett,  R.  Hayes,  John  Lewis,  Benj.  Sabin,  Zenas 
Adams,  S.  B.  Haskell,  Phineas  Crandell. 

After  1820,  English  and  Canadian  ministers  occupied 
the  field,  among  whom,  up  to  1850,  were: 

Thomas  Catterick,  Matt.  Lang,  Joseph  Stinson,  Wm. 
Squire,  Thomas  Turner,  Richard  Pope,  Jas.  Knowlan, 
John  Hick,  Geo.  Newlove,  Robt.  Cooney,  Jas.  Brock, 
John  Borland,  John  Tomkins,  Br.rnabas  Hitchcock,  Jas. 

214 


THE    AMERICAN    CENTENARY. 

Booth,  W.  E.  Shenstone,  John  B.  Selley,  M.D.,  Ed.  S. 
Ingalls,  Hugh  JMontgomery,  Malcohii  McDonald,  Gifford 
Dorey,  John  Douglas,  Benj.  Slight,  John  Armstrong. 

Stanstead,  Sherbrooke  and  Lennoxville  are  among  the 
most  beautiful  and  prosperous  towns  of  Canada. 

Bishop  Janes,  of  the  M.  E.  Church,  and  Dr.  Jeffers, 
Co-Delegate,  attended  the  Montreal  Missionary  Anni- 
versaries. At  a  Breakfast  given  after  the  meetings, 
nearly  $3,000  were  subscribed. 

Toronto  meetings  gave  promise  of  substantial  in- 
crease. 

Ottawa,  under  the  persuasive  Irish  of  the  Rev. 
James  Brock,  of  Prescott,  and  the  burning 
eloquence  of  Rev.  William  Stephenson,  Toronto, 
will  maintain  its  record;  and  the  prospects  gen- 
erally indicate  that  the  Centenary  Celebration  rather 
stimulated  than  exhausted  the  liberality  of  the  people. 
Bishop  Morris'  sanguine  prediction  that  the  Centenarian 
contributions  would  reach  $5,000,000  seems  likely  to  be 
fulfilled. 

The  Act  constituting  the  Dominion  of  Canada  by  the 
confederation  of  the  Provinces  of  Upper  and  Lower 
Canada,  Nova  Scotia  and  New  Brunswick,  changing 
the  names  Upper  and  Lower  Canada  to  Ontario  and 
Quebec,  making  provision  also  for  the  incoming  of  New- 
foundland, Prince  Edward  Island,  Manitoba,  Prince 
Rupert's  Land,  and  the  North-West  Territories,  re- 
ceived the  sanction  of  the  Queen. 

The  Convocation  exercises  of  Victoria  College,  the 
sermon  by  the  President,  the  lecture  by  Prof.  Burwash, 
the  orations  and  valedictory  by  the  graduates^  the  in- 
crease in  attendance,  and  the  announcement  that  the 
debt  of  $30,000  was  paid  gave  general  satisfaction. 

The  Rev.  John  Gemley  furnishes  some  interesting  par- 
ticulars of  his  district: 

'  Woodstock  is  making  zealous  efforts  for  the  reduc- 
215 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

tion  of  a  heavy  church  debt,  and  a  division  of  the  circuit 
is  recommended.  In  Norwich  a  new  church  is  being 
built,  and  a  second  minister  is  asked  for.  On  the  Fair- 
field Circuit,  six  new  churches  have  been  built  during 
recent  years.  Simcoe  is  devising  means  for  removing  a 
church  debt.  A  new  church  is  to  be  built  in  Tillsonburg. 
Port  Dover  has  a  new  brick  parsonage.  Lynedock,  a 
busy  lumbering  region,  has  a  new  parsonage,  increasing 
income  and  good  spiritual  results.  In  Brantford  the 
connexional  funds  will  be  doubled,  $3,000  debt  paid  ofi", 
and  an  increase  of  members.  Missionary  contributions^ — 
good  aggregate  increase.' 

The  course  of  study  and  mode  of  examining  candi- 
dates awaken  attention  and  correspondence. 

German  work,  Ottawa — Rev.  S.  Kapelle,  missionary : 
'  In  September  a  glorious  revival,  clear  witnesses, 
changed  lives,  proofs  of  the  Spirit's  work.  Family  wor- 
ship is  begun  in  many  homes,  the  wife  sometimes  build- 
ing the  altar  and  conducting  the  worship.  On  the  3rd  of 
]^Iay  our  first  church,  springing  out  of  the  revival,  was 
dedicated  by  our  Chairman— the  house  filled  with  an 
earnest  congregation.  We  have  taken  up  ten  appoint- 
ments, built  two  churches,  two  more  under  way,  and 
seventy  members  received  on  trial.' 

New  churches  have  been  opened  on  the  Coboconk, 
Newtonville,  Fitzroy,  Horning's  Mills,  Ailsa  Craig,  Pak- 
enham,  Bayfield,  and  other  circuits. 

The  Rev.  John  Carroll  dedicates  the  first  volume  of 
his  acceptable  and  valuable  biographical  sketches,  just 
issued — "  Case  and  His  Contemporaries  " — 
"  to  the  various  Methodist  Bodies  in  Canada,  in  hope 
that  the  remembrance  of  a  common  parentage  may  lead 
them  to  compromise  their  differences,  combine  and 
economize  their  energies  in  one  undivided  phalanx,  to 
urge  forward,  instrumentally,  the  glorious  work  of 
evangelization." 

This  work,  extending  through  several  volumes,  was  a 
welcome  addition  to  Mr.  Carroll's  "Past  and  Present," 
both  of  which  will  be  of  permanent  value  in  Methodist 
biography. 

216 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 

1867. 

ENGLAND  AND  CANADA. 

(^otiference,  Hamilton — Punshon — Arthur — Union — Convention — 
Mt.  Elgin  —  Holiness  —  College  Grants — Hannah — Butler- — 
Union — Punshon — Lay  Delegation — Affiliation. 

The  Conference  of  1867  was  held  in  the  John  St. 
Church,  Hamilton,  commencing  on  the  5th  of  June. 

President — Rev.  James  ElHott ;  Secretary,  Rev.  Jas. 
Gray. 

Into  full  connection— Sa.mue\  B.  PhiHps,  Geo.  Rogers, 
Henry  Kellam,  Egerton  R.  Young,  Robt.  H.  Waddell, 
Wm.  W.  Shepherd,  Jos.  W.  Holmes,  James  Laird,  Manly 
Benson,  Henry  W.  P.  Allan,  Jacob  Freshman,  James 
McCartney,  John  H.  Kapelle,  Jos.  Colling,  John  C.  Wil- 
son, John  Stewart,  Wm.  R.  Barker,  John  Burwash, 
B.A.,  Samuel  Connor,  Elisha  Tennent,  Charles  E.  Perry, 
Geo.  Ferguson,  Richard  Robinson. 

Eighteen  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died' — Geo.  F.  Playter,  Oct.  24th,  1866,  aged  55  years. 

Horace  Dean,  Nov.   nth,  1866,  aged  68  years. 

Thos.  Campbell,  Nov.  12th,  1866,  aged  55  years. 

Orrin  H.  Ellsworth,  Jan.  2nd,  1867,  aged  49  years. 

Samuel  Cairns,  Jan.  12th,  1867,  aged  26  years. 

Robt.  Shaw,  B.A..  Jan.  13th,  1867,  aged  30  years. 

David  Thompson,  Jan.  23rd,  1867,  aged  25  years. 

John  Black,  April  28th,  1867,  aged  78  years. 

Henry  Beeson,  May  nth,  1867,  aged  37  years. 
Total  number  of  members,  58,457;  increase,  1,689. 

,     The  Book  Steward  and  Editor  were  re-elected. 

The  Rev.  Drs.  Richey  and  Pickard,  Delegates  from 
the  Eastern  Conference,  and  the  Rev.  Dr.  Hibbard,  of 

217 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

the  East  Genesee  Conference,  were  introduced.  Dr. 
Richey  preached  the  ordination  sermon,  and  Dr.  Hibbard 
took  the  service  in  McNab  St.  Church, 

A  fraternal  address  was  received  from  the  Primitive 
Methodist  Church. 

The  Committee  on  Union  reported  that  the  committees 
of  some  of  the  churches  were  so  fettered  by  instructions 
and  restrictions  that  no  general  meeting  had  been  held. 
It  was  thought  that  committees  should  be  untrammelled. 
The  Committee  was  reappointed. 

The  Rev.  Drs.  Richey  and  Pickard  said  that  pro- 
posals of  union  were  favorably  received  by  their  Con- 
ferences. 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  on  the  Division  of  Con- 
ference recommended  the  division.  After  a  discussion 
lasting  two  days,  the  vote  showed  i6o  against  to  120  for 
division.  The  probability  of  union  with  the  Eastern  and 
perhaps  other  Conferences  seemed  to  favor  postponement 
of  division. 

On  motion,  the  second  volume  of  Playter's  History 
was  placed  in  the  hands  of  the  Book  Committee,  with  a 
view  to  its  publication,  if  deemed  advisable. 

The  Rev.  Drs.  Ryerson  and  JefTers  were  appointed 
Delegates  to  the  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church,  U.  S.,  and  Dr.  Lachlin  Taylor  to  the 
Eastern  Conference. 

Sydenham  St.  Church,  Kingston,  was  chosen  as  the 
next  place  of  meeting. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Thursday  evening.  Many 
of  the  ministers  accepted  an  invitation  to  attend  the 
closing  exercises  of  the  Female  College,  and  were  highly 
pleased  with  the  success  of  the  Institution.  A  lecture 
was  given,  at  the  College,  by  Dr.  Jeffers  on  "  The  Do- 
minion of  Canada" — a  good  preparation  for  the  ist  of 
July,  proclaimed  as  the  first  Dominion  Holiday. 

The  Rev.  Wm.  Stephenson  accompanied  Dr.  Taylor  to 
218 


ENGLAND   AND    CANADA 

the  Eastern  Conference.  They  received  a  most  hearty 
greeting,  not  at  the  Conference  only  but  also  in  several 
cities. 

Extract  from  a  private  letter  from  the  Rev.  Wm.  M. 
Punshon— dated  Bristol,  July  loth,  1867— to  the  Rev. 
Dr.  Ryerson: 

'  I  beg  very  gratefully  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of 
yours  of  June  19th,  bringing  me  the  only  intimation  I 
have  received  of  the  request  of  the  Canada  Conference. 
I  feel  thankful  for  this  mark  of  confidence  from  brethren 
over  the  water,  and  if  Providence  open  the  way,  I  shall 
regard  myself  as  favored  with  no  small  opportunity  of 
getting  and  doing  good.  No  step  in  this  matter  has  been 
of  my  own  motion,  .  .  .  and  I  can  scarcely  write 
finally  until  the  decision  of  our  Conference  has  been 
pronounced.' 

The  Wesleyan  Conference  met  in  Bristol,  July  31st. 
The  Rev.  John  Bedford  was  elected  President  and  the 
Rev.  John  Farrar  Secretary. 

The  request  of  the  Canada  Conference  for  the  appoint- 
ment of  the  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon  as  President  for  next 
year  was  complied  with;  he  was  also  appointed  Delegate 
to  the  next  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist  Epis- 
copal Church,  U.  S. 

At  the  request  of  the  Irish  Conference,  the  Rev.  Wm. 
Arthur,  M.A.,  was  appointed  President  of  the  new  Col- 
legiate Institution  in  Belfast. 

Several  Irishmen  have  sat  in  the  chair  of  the  English 
Conference — Wm.  Thompson,  Dr.  Adam  Clarke,  Henry 
Moore,  Walter  Griffith,  John  Crook,  Adam  Averell  and 
Wm.  Arthur. 

In  reference  to  Union,  the  editor  of  the  Christian 
Guardian  says : 

'  We  understand  that  the  New  Connexion  and  Primi- 
tive Conferences  have  agam  appointed  Committees  on 
Union  and  have  left  them  free  from  restrictions.  This 
is  well.     The  Methodist  Episcopal  General  Conference, 

219 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

however,  meets  only  once  in  four  years,  and  we  know  not 
if  its  committee  will  now  feel  as  free  as  the  other  com- 
mittees to  consider  the  whole  question.  .  .  .  We 
were  the  first  in  this  province  to  urge  upon  Methodists 
the  importance  of  seeking  union,  and  to  suggest  that  imtil 
we  could  agree  upon  a  plan  we  should  cultivate  brotherly 
feelings  towards  each  other.  The  spirit  of  conciliation 
and  compromise  should  be  manifested  by  all  the  parties 
concerned.' 

Methodism  does  not  seem  to  have  found  a  very  con- 
genial soil  in  Scotland.  Forty  years  ago  there  were  27 
ministers  and  3,249  members.  Last  year  there  was  the 
same  number  of  ministers  and  an  increase  of  only  75 
members.  But  three  new  chapels  have  been  built  recently 
and  three  more  are  in  progress.  It  is  believed  that  a 
Relief  and  Extension  Fund  would  tend  to  progress. 

That  Canadian  churches  are  becoming  increasingly 
alive  to  Sunday  School  work  has  been  manifested  by  the 
interdenominational  conventions  held  during  recent 
years.  At  the  fourth  Convention,  just  held  in  Toronto, 
several  hundred  delegates,  representing  both  Ontario  and 
Quebec,  attended.  Knox  Church  was  crowded  during 
the  day,  and  in  the  evenings  hundreds  could-  not  gain 
admittance.  The  children's  gatherings  in  the  afternoon 
of  the  third  day  filled  three  large  churches— Richmond, 
Elm  and  Bond  St.  The  last  evening  witnessed  an  un- 
usual outburst  of  enthusiasm,  the  church  crowded  until 
nearly  midnight  and  about  $1,000  contributed. 

The  re-opening  of  the  Mount  Elgin  Industrial  School, 
on  the  2nd  of  October,  1867,  was  a  grand  occasion  for 
the  Ojibways  and  their  friends — the  Oneidas  After 
religious  service  dinner  was  served  on  the  lawn.  The 
finest  ox  obtainable  and  a  plump  two-year-old  had  been 
prepared.  The  proceedings,  enlivened  by  the  stirring 
strains  of  the  Ojibway  Band,  were  continued  until  sun- 
down. About  thirty  Indian  boys  and  girls  are  enrolled 
as  boarders  and  as  many  more  expected. 

220 


ENGLAND   AND   CANADA 

Methodism  and  the  Church  of  England — 

'  Methodism  could  not  be  re-united  to  the  Church  of 
England.  .  .  .  There  is  no  organization  which  is 
throughput  so  complete  an  embodiment  of  lay  liberty 
and  lay  influence,  so  complete  a  protest  against  clerical 
monoply  and  absolutism,  as  INIethodism.  It  can  hold 
brotherly  intercommunication  with  all  true  Protestant 
churches.  If  it  were  to  be  absorbed  or  "  reconciled," 
this  large  liberty  of  friendship  and  of  co-operation  would 
have  to  be  given  up.  The  Congress  this  year  has  not 
noticed  Dr.  Rigg's  "  Essays  for  the  Times."  Mr. 
Arthur's  authority  and  Mr.  Wiseman's  letter  to  the  Times 
are  ignored.  For  Methodism  to  unite  with  the  Church 
of  England  would  be  putting  new  wine  into  old  bottles.' 
— Watchman. 

The  venerable  Bishop  Strachan,  D.D.,  LL.D.,  died  on 
the  ist  of  November,  1867,  in  his  ninetieth  year.  He 
was  a  native  of  Aberdeen,  came  to  Canada  in  1799,  was 
ordained  by  Bishop  Mountain  in  1803,  and  was  elected 
Bishop  in  1837.  His  influence  in  the  Legislative  Council, 
his  zeal  for  the  financial  interests  of  his  adopted  church, 
was  intense.  Had  not  Egerton  Ryerson  crossed  his  path 
his  ambitious  policy  of  an  established  church  and  the 
public  lands  to  sustain  an  English  Church  college  would 
doubtless  have  been  realized.  His  plans  miscarried.  But 
the  status  of  the  English  Church  in  Canada  and  Trinity 
University  are  due  largely  to  Bishop  Strachan. 

The  Missionary  Society  Anniversary  was  held  in 
Whitby,  November  loth  and  following  days.  The  Rev. 
George  McDougall,  from  the  North-West,  added  greatly 
to  the  interest  of  the  meeting.  His  descriptions  of  the 
country,  the  needs  of  the  Indians,  the  toils  and  successes 
of  the  missionaries,  were  listened  to  with  the  deepest 
sympathy. 

The  income  was  $70,558,  an  increase  of  nearly  $4,000 
— meeting  the  expenditure  for  the  year,  but  there  is  an 
accumulated  debt  of  nearly  $20,000. 

221 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  Rev.  Dr.  McClintock's  Theology— 

'  I  have  made  a  little  exposition  of  Methodism ;  I  sum 
it  all  up  in  a  sentence  or  two.  It  takes  the  old  Theology 
of  the  Christian  Church ;  but  it  takes  one  element  which 
no  other  Christian  church  has  dared  to  put  forward  as 
a  prominent  feature  of  theology — the  great  central,  pre- 
vailing idea  of  the  whole  Book  of  God — the  holiness  of 
the  human  soul,  heart,  mind  and  will.  Go  through  all  the 
confessions  of  all  the  churches,  and  you  will  find  this  in 
no  other.  This  is  our  mission.  If  we  keep  to  this,  the 
next  century  is  ours.  This  shall  be  the  ground  of  our 
triumph.    God  keep  us  true ! ' 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Freshman  made  an  extensive  tour 
through  the  German  settlements  and  missions  on  the 
Ottawa,  aiding  Bro.  Kapelle  amid  many  difficulties  and 
finding  openings  for  other  laborers. 

Increase  of  Methodist  ministers  in  twelve  years : 

1853  1865 

Wesleyan.    .  . 213  540 

Episcopal 99  200 

New  Connexion   52  117 

Primitive 25  80 

Bible  Christian   20  65 


409  1 ,002 

Members  and  adherents  probably  about  500,000. 

The  above  figures  are  supplied  by  Rev,  I.  B.  Ayles- 
worth  in  one  of  his  earnest  pleas  for  Methodist  union — ■ 
the  progress  of  the  past  indicating  what  might  be  done 
in  the  future  by  a  union  of  forces. 

The  income  of  Toronto  University  has  been  declared 
insufficient  to  meet  its  demands  ;  and  to  relieve  its  necessi- 
ties it  has  been  proposed  to  withdraw  grants  made  to 
denominational  colleges.  Memorials  have  been  presented 
for  and  against  this  proposal. 

Education  in  Scotland  and  Canada. — Mr.  Home,  a 
member  of  the  Education  Committee  of  Scotland,  says : 

'  The  last  suggestion  which  I  venture  to  offer  for  the 
consideration  of  the  Royal   Commissioners   is  to  bring 

222 


ENGLAND   AND    CANADA 

over  to  this  country,  to  be  examined  by  them,  Dr.  Ryer- 
son,  the  distinguished  man  who  laid  the  foundation  and 
reared  the  structure  of  the  educational  system  in  Canada. 
With  Dr.  Ryerson  I  have  no  personal  acquaintance,  but, 
having-  seen  what  he  has  accomplished,  I  have  formed  the 
highest  opinion  of  him  as  an  authority  in  educational 
matters,  as  a  liberal-minded  Christian  and  a  very  saga- 
cious politician.' 

The  Rev.  John  Hannah,  D.D.,  died  at  Didsbury  on  the 
20th  of  December,  1867,  after  ten  days  of  severe  illness, 
at  the  age  of  seventy  years.  In  the  regular  work  of  the 
ministry  and  in  the  chair  of  Theology,  at  Didsbury,  he 
won  the  most  affectionate  regard.  The  rich  unction  at- 
tending his  addresses  and  sermons,  on  his  visit  to  Canada 
in  1856,  are  gratefully  remembered. 

The  lectures  of  Rev.  Lachlin  Taylor,  D.D.,  and  his 
addresses  at  missionary  meetings  are  awakening  great 
interest  and  liberality. 

The  Rev.  George  McDougall,  with  his  inexhaustible 
stores  of  information  about  the  North-West,  is  proving 
a  grand  addition  to  missionary  deputations.  In  Montreal 
he  joined  Dr.  Butler,  from  India. 

"  From  flowing  minds  and  hearts  these  eminent  mis- 
sionaries discoursed  to  large  and  deeply  interested  audi- 
ences on  the  fields  and  incidents  of  their  labors,  investing 
missionary  enterprises  with  an  importance  that  cannot 
be  estimated." 

The  large  and  comparatively  new  Methodist  Church  in 
Halifax  was  burned  on  the  22nd  of  February,  1868. 

During  the  month  of  March  the  Rev.  James  Caughey 
conducted  a  series  of  very  successful  revival  services  in 
the  Elm  St.  and  Richmond  St.  Churches,  Toronto. 

The  Union- — 

'  The  facts  so  forcibly  presented  by  Bro.  Aylesworth 
are  undeniable,  as  many  of  us  know  from  sorrow ;  and 
the  Wesleyan  Methodist  Church  ought  not  to  be  slow 
in  endeavoring  to  bring  about  a  happier  state  of  things.' 
— Wm.  Scott. 

223  I 


.  METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Rev.  Wm.  Brown,  in  the  Canada  Christian  Advocate: 
'  Our  last  General  Conference  afifirmed  the  desirability 
of  a  union.  The  commitees  appointed  should  certainly 
make  an  effort  to  accomplish  the  work  for  which  they 
were  appointed.  Many  of  our  best  and  wisest  people  are 
praying  for  the  healing  of  breaches  in  Methodism.  Let 
the  misunderstandings  of  the  past  be  forgotten.  There  is 
no  reason  for  contention  now.' 

Bishop  Richardson  expresses  his  opinion  in  a  letter, 
April  ist,  1868,  that  the  Committee  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  is  as  free  to  act  as  other  committees. 

'  Canada  has  been  the  means  of  changing  the  whole 
colonial  policy  of  Great  Britain;  it  will  be  still  more  to 
its  honor  to  originate  the  union  of  churches.' — Guardian. 

At  a  breakfast  in  London,  April  6th,  the  Rev.  Wm. 
Morley  Punshon  was  presented  with  an  address  and  a 
purse  of  seven  hundred  guineas  "  as  an  expression  of 
friendship  and  of  high  appreciation  of  his  private  excel- 
lencies and  his  public  services  to  the  cause  of  Christ." 

Mr,  Punshon,  appointed  President  of  the  next  Canada 
Conference,  sailed  by  the  Scotia,  April  nth,  arrived  in 
New  York  on  the  22nd,  preached  at  the  dedication  of  St. 
John's  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  Brooklyn,  and,  pro- 
ceeding to  Montreal,  preached  in  Great  St.  James  St. 
Church  and  delivered  his  lecture  on  "  Daniel  in  Babylon  " 
on  Monday  evening. 

'  It  would  be  impossible  to  find  space  for  the  many 
beautiful  illustrations,  the  graphic  descriptions,  the 
shrewd  observations,  the  pathos,  the  humor,  the  art — felt 
rather  than  seen^ — both  in  the  composition  and  delivery 
with  which  the  lecture  abounded.' — Witness. 

From  Montreal  Mr,  Punshon  proceeded  to  Ottawa, 
where  his  lecture  was  a  "  sensation  and  a  success," 
preached  in  Belleville,  attended  the  Convocation  of  Vic- 
toria College,  preached  the  dedication  sermon  for  Cen- 
tenary Church,  Hamilton,  and  left  for  Chicago  to  attend 
the  General  Conference  as  Delegate   from  the  English 

224 


ENGLAND   AND    CANADA 

Conference.  The  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson  attended  as  Delegate 
from  the  Canada  Conference  and  the  Rev.  Dr.  Richey 
from  the  Eastern  Conference.  Lay  delegation  was  one 
of  the  great  questions  under  consideration.  The  Confer- 
ence in  i860  had  declared  itself  willing  for  the  change,  if 
the  people  desired  it.  The  vote  of  both  ministers  and 
laymen  was  strongly  against  it.  The  ofifer  was  repeated 
in  1864;  no  vote  was  taken,  but  the  agitation  continued. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Evans  sailed  from  Victoria  on  the  3rd 
of  April  and  reached  Toronto  six  weeks  later. 

On  the  7th  of  May  a  valedictory  service  was  held  in 
the  Richmond  St.  Church,  Toronto,  on  the  departure  of 
Revs.  George  Young,  Peter  Campbell  and  Egerton  R. 
Young  for  the  North-West.  On  the  platform  were  Revs. 
James  Elliott,  President;  W.  M.  Punshon,  M.A.,  Drs. 
Wood,  Ryerson,  Green,  Jeffers,  Taylor,  George  Mc- 
Dougall,  Messrs.  John  McDonald,  A.  W.  Lauder,  and 
others.  The  church  was  filled  to  overflowing  with  a 
deeply  sympathetic  audience.  The  next  morning  a 
breakfast  was  given  in  the  lecture  room.  John  McDonald, 
Esq.,  presided,  and  addresses  were  given  by  Revs.  Wm. 
Stephenson,  Principal  V/ilHs  of  Knox  College,  W.  H. 
Gibbs,  Esq.,  Oshawa;  Rev.  Drs.  Caldicott,  Baptist;  Jen- 
nings, Presbyterian ;  Cocker,  New  Connexion ;  J.  G. 
Manly,  Congregational;  W.  H.  Beatty,  Esq.,  and  Rev. 
W.  M.  Punshon.  Contributions  of  about  $1,800  were 
handed  in. 

The  missionaries  have  been  largely  instrumental  in 
making  known  the  priceless  value  of  those  vast  regions, 
and  the  outcome  is  seen  in  negotiations  for  the  trans- 
fer of  the  Hudson's  Bay  Company's  rights  and  the 
opening  of  unlimited  fields  for  missionary  enterprise. 

The  Rev.  A.  Carman,  M.A.,  President  of  Albert  Col- 
lege, in  the  Canada  Christian  Advocate,  joins  hands  with 
the  Editor  of  the  Christian  Guardian  in  the  demand  for 
'  fair,  honest,  liberal  and  patriotic  '  dealing  by  the  Gov- 
15  225 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

ernment  on  the  College  Question.  The  plan  likely  to  be 
proposed  is — One  University,  with  the  privilege  of  affilia- 
tion open  to  all  colleges  on  certain  conditions. 

On  his  return  from  Chicago  the  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon, 
M.A.,  lectured  in  the  Richmond  St.  Church  on  "  Daniel 
in  Babylon."  Enthusiastic  applause  testified  the  ap- 
preciation of  his  eloquent  words,  and  continued  cheering 
marked  the  close.  A  vote  of  thanks  proposed  by  the 
Rev.  Dr.  McCaul  and  seconded  by  Dr.  Daniel  Wilson 
was  carried  with  acclamation. 


AIethodist  Church,  Quebec 


226 


1.   Henderson,  \V.  C,  H.li.         j.   l.antrford,  Alex.,  D.D.        3.   Potts,  John.  D.L», 
i.  Roberts,  Rev.  Edward  5.  Miss  Mary  E.  Adams  6.  Cornish,  Geo.  H.,  LL.D. 

Huestis,  S.  F.,  D.D.  S.  Webber,  Rev.  Georsre         9.  Shannon,  Hon.  S.  L. 


CHAPTER  XIX. 


CANADA'S  ENLARGING  SPHERE. 

Conference,  Kingston — Punshon — Oshawa — Eastern  Conference 
— Victoria — Red  River — Fort  Garry — McGill  Square — North- 
West — British  Cohimbia — Dr.  Evans — Sea  to  Sea — Endow- 
ment— Winnipeg — Young — Blackfeet — Convocation. 

The  Conference  met  in  Sydenham  St.  Church,  King- 
ston, on  the  3rd  of  June,  1868 — the  Rev.  James  Elliott, 
President,  in  the  chair.  About  250  brethren  answered  to 
the  roll-call.  The  President  briefly  and  gratefully  re- 
viewed the  year  and  introduced  his  successor,  the  Rev. 
W.  M.  Punshon,  M.A.,  who  received  a  hearty  welcome. 
The  Co-Delegate,  Rev.  Dr.  Taylor,  was  introduced.  The 
Rev.  Ch.  Lavell,  M.A.,  was  elected  Secretary. 

Received  into  full  connection — Geo.  H.  Bridgman, 
M.A.,  Alexander  G.  Harris,  Robt.  L.  Gabie,  James  Kines, 
Donald  G.  Sutherland,  M.A.,  Andrew  B.  Chambers,  Jas. 
Woodsworth,  James  McClung,  Daniel  E.  F.  Gee,  Wm.  H. 
Rowson,  B.A.,  John  W.  Wicher,  Jacob  E.  Howell,  M.A., 
Wm.  H.  Withrow,  M.A.,  Wm.  Shaw,  Joseph  H.  Chant, 
Osborne  Lambly,  M.A.,  John  H.  Stewart,  Robt.  Bell, 
Wm.  J.  Shaw,  M.A.,  LL.B.,  Richard  Kerr,  Henry  Irvine, 
Stephen  Chartier. 

Twenty-nine  candidates  were  received  on  probation. 

Died — Robert  Graham,  February  20th,  1868,  aged  70 
years. 

The  Book  Steward  and  the  Editor  were  re-elected. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Evans  gave  a  very  interesting  account 
of  the  work  in  Vancouver  and  British  Columbia.  The 
Rev.  Dr.  Butler,  from  India,  was  introduced.  A  depu- 
tation  from  the  Presbyterian  Synod,  in  session  in  the 

227 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

city,  received  a  very  hearty  welcome.  The  Rev.  Drs. 
Green,  Taylor,  John  Borland  and  George  Douglas  were 
appointed  to  convey  the  greetings  of  the  Conference  to 
the  Synod.  The  Conference  love-feast  was  opened  at 
8  o'clock  Sunday  morning  by  the  Rev.  John  Carroll,  and 
proved  a  season  of  delightful  fellowship. 

The  ordination  sermon  by  the  President  equalled 
highest  expectations.  Dr.  Jeffers  preached  in  the  even- 
ing. 

Total  members,  60,444;  increase,  1,987. 

An  effort  is  to  be  made  to  raise  an  Endowment  Fund 
of  $100,000  for  Victoria  College. 

The  Constitution  of  the  Sunday  School  Union  was 
revised.     No  difficult  legislation  was  attempted. 

Mr.  Punshon's  lecture  on  John  "  Wesley  and  His 
Times  "  was  such  a  treat  of  art  and  eloquence  as  had  not 
before  been  enjoyed  in  Kingston. 

The  new  and  beautiful  church  in  Oshawa  was  dedi- 
cated on  the  14th  of  June,  the  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson  preach- 
ing in  the  morning,  Rev.  Dr.  Jeffers  in  the  afternoon,  and 
the  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon  in  the  evening.  Large  audi- 
ences attended,  and  in  the  evening  Dr.  Jeffers  preached 
to  an  overflow  congregation  in  the  Presbyterian  Church. 
The  cost  of  the  new  church  was  about  $15,000,  which, 
after  another  Sunday  and  a  tea-meeting,  was  all  pro- 
vided for. 

Mr.  Punshon  proceeded  to  Fredericton,  N.B.,  as 
President  of  the  Eastern  Conference,  accompanied  by 
Rev.  Dr.  Nelles,  Delegate  from  the  Canada  Conference. 

'  The  Rev.  Morley  Punshon,  after  presiding  over  the 
A^^'esleyan  Conference,  left  Fredericton  with  the  Hon. 
Judge  Wilmot.  His  visit  among  us  has  been  like  the 
flash  of  a  meteor,  illuminating  all  around.  On  Sabbath 
morning  the  A^^esleyan  Church  was  filled  to  its  utmost 
capacity.  The  sermon  was  a  masterpiece  of  eloquence, 
accompanied  by  a  gracious  influence  to  the  hearts  of  all. 
His  Excellency  the  Lieutenant-Governor  was  among  the 

228 


i 


CANADA'S   ENLARGING   SPHERE 

hearers.  Every  Church  in  the  city  was  represented  and 
expressions  of  satisfaction  came  from  every  class  and 
creed.' — Nezv  Brunswick  Reporter. 

Volunteers  were  asked  for  the  Pacific  Coast.  Mr. 
Henry  Cunningham,  of  Victoria,  ofifered  $500  a  year 
for  three  years  towards  the  support  of  a  missionary  at  the 
Cariboo  gold  fields,  where  there  are  1,700  miners  without 
any  minister.  The  Revs.  Amos  E.  Russ,  with  wife  and 
two  children,  and  Thomas  Derrick  accepted  the  call  and 
left  for  New  York,  whence  they  sail  by  Panama. 

The  Rev.  Albert  Carman  writes : 

'  At  the  last  session  of  the  Provincial  Legislature  the 
Colleges  were  asking  some  system  of  public  aid  that 
would  enable  them  to  carry  on  their  operations.  To 
some  of  them  aid  was  afiforded  on  the  ground  that  they 
had  long  been  recipients ;  but  they  were  curtly  told  that 
they  need  not  come  again,  as  though  they  were  not  claim- 
ing an  indisputable  right.  .  .  .  Have  the  Colleges  a 
community  of  interests?  H  so  there  should  be  unity  of 
action.  .  .  .  H  we  demand  aright  we  shall  obtain 
fair  and  honorable  legislation  that  will  benefit  all  classes 
of  Her  Majesty's  subjects.' 

The  Rev.  E.  R.  Young  writes  from  Red  River,  July 
1 6th,   1868: 

'  We  rose  about  4  o'clock,  prepared  breakfast,  looked 
after  our  horses,  joined  in  praise  and  prayer,  and  at  the 
call  of  our  indefatigable  leader  were  soon  on  our  way; 
halted  at  noon,  then  journeyed  till  night.  At  times  it 
seemed  as  if  we  and  our  faithful  horses  would  melt;  at 
other  times  drenching  rain  would  penetrate  our  tents. 
We  forded  rivers  and  mudholes,  almost  impassable.  The 
grasshoppers  have  eaten  nearly  every  green  thing.  We 
never  saw  a  finer  soil ;  no  forests  to  fell — a  home  for 
millions.  We  are  waiting  a  boat  for  Norway  House. 
Bros.  McDougall,  Campbell  and  party  are  making  pro- 
vision for  their  long  journey  in  carts  and  wagons.' 

July  19th,  1868,  the  Rev.  George  Young  writes  from 
Fort  Garry: 

'  Crossing  into  the  Dominion  we  sang  "  God  Save  the 
Queen  "  and  hoisted  the  Union  Jack.     This  so  vexed  or 

229 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

frightened  a  pair  of  our  American  horses  that  they  ran 
away,  but  were  recovered.  Bro.  McDougall's  Red  River 
carts  amused  us  not  a  little — large,  awkward-looking 
wheels  attached  to  a  frame  that  serves  for  shafts  and 
box,  with  raw  buffalo  hide  on  wheels  and  axle  instead 
of  iron,  and  so  little  grease  that  with  a  hundred  of  them 
in  a  train  their  music  can  be  heard  far  off.  Nearing 
Fort  Garry  we  found  the  roads  so  miry  that  we  were 
compelled  to  camp  among  swarms  of  mosquitoes.  But 
in  this  there  was  a  special  providence,  as  about  2  o'clock 
a  fearful  storm  of  wind,  rain  and  lightning  burst  upon 
us.  Had  we  reached  the  settlement  and  tented  on  the 
open  prairie  our  wagons  and  tents  must  have  been 
destroyed.  The  next  day  we  crossed  the  Assiniboine, 
looked  into  Fort  Garry  and  passed  on  six  miles,  to  rest 
for  the  Sabbath.' 

The  Trustees  of  the  Adelaide  St.  Church,  Toronto, 
purchased  McGill  Square,  about  three  acres,  for  $26,000, 
as  a  site  for  a  representative  church. 

'  Less  than  thirty  years  ago  the  land  north  of  McGill 
Square  and  eastward  from  Yonge  St.  to  the  Don  was 
mostly  unproductive  and  covered  with  zig-zag  fences, 
but  has  now  populous  streets,  handsome  dwellings,  gar- 
dens and  pleasure  grounds.  In  that  time  the  city  has 
more  than  trebled  its  extent,  trade,  and  population.  It 
would  be  no  great  stretch  of  prophetic  reasoning  to  say 
that  this  Square,  with  its  buildings,  will  in  twenty  years 
be  worth  $200,000.' — Toronto  Telegraph. 

John  McDonald,  Esq.,  sends  a  very  interesting  account 
of  the  Rama  camp-meeting: 

'  In  addition  to  the  Rama  Indians,  there  were  many 
from  Colpoy's  Bay,  Mud  Lake,  Snake  Island,  and  Geor- 
gina  Island.  A  larger  proportion  of  them  are  members 
of  the  church  than  in  white  communities  and  they  are 
intelligent  Christians.  To  those  who  labor  among  them 
the  results  must  be  cheering.  See  for  yourselves  and  you 
will  say  we  have  not  yet  done  our  duty  to  the  Indians.' 

Quebec — ■ 

'The  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon,  M.A.,  lectured  on  Friday 
evening  in  the  Wesleyan  Church  on  "  Daniel  in  Baby- 

230 


CANADA'S   ENLARGING   SPHERE 

Ion  " — a  lecture  originally  prepared  for  the  Young  Men's 
Christian  Association,  London,  and  presenting  Daniel  as 
a  model  for  young  men.  Beauty  of  conception,  elegance  of 
language  and  perfection  of  elocution  combined  to  render 
this  lecture  one  of  the  most  delightful  to  which  we  ever 
listened.  Last  night  Mr.  Punshon  preached  to  an 
immense  concourse,  some  hundreds  being  unable  to  ob- 
tain admittance.  The  sermon  was  eminently  calculated 
to  lead  men  to  investigate  their  course  in  life  and  to 
adopt  sincere  resolutions  of  amendment.' — Quebec 
Gazette. 

'  A  Canadian  route  to  the  North-West  is  the  subject 
of  a  report  by  S.  J.  Dawson,  Esq.,  C.E.,  recently  printed 
by  order  of  the  House  of  Commons.  On  such  communi- 
cation the  future  of  Canada  is  greatly  dependent.  Can- 
ada has  resources  whose  development  must  greatly  accel- 
erate the  increase  of  her  population  and  wealth.  .  .  . 
Let  a  tolerably  practical  route  be  opened  to  Red  River 
and  the  valley  of  the  Saskatchewan,  and  soon  millions  of 
population  and  hundreds  of  millions  of  trade  would 
make  Hudson's  Bay  Territory  a  number  of  provinces  and 
Canada  a  great  and  progressive  confederation.  The 
threatened  famine  at  Red  River  is  hastening  the  Govern- 
ment's exertions^  in  opening  up  the  above  route.' — 
Guardian,  Oct.  14th,  1868. 

The  Revs.  Amos  Russ  and  Thomas  Derrick  arrived 
in  British  Columbia  Sept.  4th,   1868. 

The  people  of  Nanaimo  gave  the  Rev.  Edward  White 
a  hearty  reception  on  his  return  to  their  circuit.  He  was 
accompanied  by  the  Rev.  Thomas  Derrick,  whose  ser- 
mons and  addresses,  before  leaving  for  Cariboo,  were 
very  highly  appreciated.  From  Montreal  to  Cariboo  is  a 
wonderful  transition,  but  the  energy  and  devotion  of  the 
new  missionary  specially  fit  him  for  the  situation. 

The  missionary  income  for  the  year  1867-8  was  $74,884 
— an  increase  of  over  $6,000,  but  still  leaving  a  deficit  of 
nearly  $4,000.  The  Secretary,  Dr.  Taylor,  urged  that 
the  debt  be  paid.  Mr.  W.  H.  Gibbs  said  we  should  not 
pay  the  debt  only,  but  raise  the  revenue  to  $100,000. 

231 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

'When  at  Cariboo/  said  Dr.  Evans,  '  I  had  to  pay  $i:2 
a  day  to  laboring  men,  $i6  to  carpenters,  $30  to  a  man 
with  a  yoke  of  oxen,  yet  those  hard-handed  miners  gave 
us  enough  to  build,  without  asking  you  for  help.  They 
had  been  four  years  without  a  minister,  until  Mr.  Der- 
rick's arrival,' and  there  are  now  141  members.  Nanaimo 
is  the  great  centre  for  coal,  copper  and  iron — the  only 
place  on  the  Pacific  Coast  where  anthracite  is  found.' 

Towards  building  a  church  at  Red  River  $1,800  was 
contributed. 

The  Rev.  E.  R.  Young  writes  from  Norway  House, 
Sept.  30th,  1868: 

'  Our  home  is  among  the  Indians  north  of  Lake  Winni- 
peg. From  Red  River  we  were  rowed  in  a  little  open 
boat  by  six  Indians,  often  fearfully  tossed  on  the  im- 
mense waters,  but  mercifully  preserved.  We  have  a  nice 
church,  a  good  Sunday  School  and  an  interpreter.  I 
have  just  returned  from  Oxford  House,  over  200  miles, 
in  a  canoe,  with  two  Indians.  The  missionary  there  is  a 
converted  Indian  and  I  went  to  administer  the  sacra- 
ments.   Coming  home  wind,  rain  and  snow  beat  upon  us.' 

'  The  claims  of  the  Hudson's  Bay  Company  have  been 
rejected  by  the  British  Government  and  the  Dominion  of 
Canada  will  soon  extend  "  from  sea  to  sea."  With  a 
route  opened  into  those  vast  territories  the  prairies  will 
soon  become  fruitful  fields.' — Guardian,  November,  i< 


The  Rev.  George  Young  writes  that  the  general  desti- 
tution around  Fort  Garry  and  the  prospects  for  winter 
were  appalling.  The  Company  had  made  a  grant  of 
£1,600  to  provide  nets,  ammunition  and  seed  wheat. 

The  Canada  Christian  Advocate  has  had  a  series  of 
editorials  on  the  College  Question,  one  of  them  conclud- 
ing thus: 

'  It  is  not  our  business  to  present  the  details  of  a  gen- 
eral measure  for  colleges.  If  the  people  demand  such  a 
measure  it  is  the  business  of  the  Government  to  enact 
it.  .  .  .  There  could  be  independent  Universities  or 
one  bona  fide  Protestant  University,  which  we  certainly 
have  not  now.' 

232 


CANADA'S   ENLARGING   SPHERE 

A  meeting  was  held  in  Cobourg,  Nov.  loth,  1868,  in 
response  to  a  call  from  the  Conference  and  College  au- 
thorities to  initiate  an  effort  for  an  Endowment  Fund. 
Representative  men  attended  from  many  parts  of  the 
Province  and  some  generous  sums  were  offered:  Rev. 
W.  M.  Punshon,  $3,000;  John  McDonald,  Esq.,  $2,000; 
W.  H.  Gibbs,  Esq.,  $1,000  and  $1,000  conditional;  Wm. 
Kerr,  Esq.,  $1,000;  Wm.  Beatty,  M.P.P.,  $1,000,  and 
smaller  amounts.  Edward  Jackson,  Esq.,  of  Hamilton, 
was  not  there,  but  a  few  days  afterwards  gave  $2,000 
and  $3,000  more  conditional. 

A  resolution  was  before  the  House  declaring  it  ex- 
pedient to  extend  the  provisions  of  the  University  Act  of 
1853,  making  provision  for  the  affiliation  of  Colleges. 
Various  amendments  were  offered,  but  no  final  action 
taken. 

The  wonderful  attraction  of  Mr.  Punshon's  lectures 
has  not  only  cultivated  a  taste  for  high-class,  instructive 
entertainment,  but  has  also  awakened  the  dormant  elo- 
cutionary powers  of  many  a  village  Hampden  and  many 
a  name,  hitherto  unknown  to  fame,  is  drawing  full 
houses. 

A  "  Handbook  of  Canadian  Methodism,"  by  the  Rev. 
G.  H.  Cornish,  has  been  published  by  the  Book  Room — 
"  a  veritable  mine  of  information  of  exceeding  interest  to 
preachers  and  people." 

From  the  far-away  Edmonton  House  the  Rev.  Peter 
Campbell  writes,  Jan.  8th,  1869: 

'  We  are  well — never  felt  more  like  work.  I  drove 
my  two  oxen  and  carts  seven  hundred  miles  over  the 
plains,  and  walked  most  of  the  way.  Mrs.  Campbell  drove 
the  horse  and  buggy  and  took  care  of  our  two  little  girls 
most  of  the  way  from  Red  River — sometimes  in  a  river 
swift  enough  to  carry  us  off  our  feet,  or  plunging  through 
bogs  in  which  oxen  and  cart  were  well-nigh  buried.  We 
reached  Edmonton  Sept.  21st — four  months  and  a  half 
on  the  way.     The  plains  are  very  fertile;  grain  and  root 

233 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

crops  grow  well.  Gold,  coal,  platinum,  salt  and  sulphur 
abound.  The  rivers  are  magnificent;  the  Saskatchewan 
navigable,  for  steamboats,  1,200  miles;  the  Athabaska 
and  Peace  Rivers,  nearly  their  whole  length;  the  Mac- 
kenzie from  the  Arctic  Ocean  to  Great  Slave  Lake.  Our 
house  is  comfortable.  Preaching  on  the  Lord's  Day 
morning  and  evening;  Sunday  School  in  the  afternoon. 
I  spent  a  Sabbath  with  Bro.  McDougall  and  expect  to  go 
to  the  Mountain  House  in  February — camping  in  the 
snow.' 

Mrs.  Campbell,  who  so  pluckily  handled  the  reins 
crossing  those  swiftly-flowing  rivers  and  wide-extended 
plains,  worn  out  by  the  untold  privations  of  missionary 
life,  rests  in  Mount  Pleasant  Cemetery,  Toronto;  one  of 
her  little  girls  is  Mrs.  E.  J.  Forbes,  in  Australia,  the 
other,  in  Toronto,  widow  of  the  late  Rev.  William  C. 
Sanderson. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Derrick  writes  a  glowing  account 
of  his  journey  to  Cariboo: 

'  Behind  six  noble  horses,  in  massive  harness,  and  such 
a  carriage !  the  mountain  tops  of  Yale  in  the  distance,  the 
peaks  forever  glistening  in  their  icy  grandeur — and  we 
are  away,  not  for  a  few  miles,  but  for  hundreds ;  cross- 
ing the  suspension  bridge  over  the  Eraser,  viewing  the 
Cascades,  the  Boston  Bar,  the  dizzy  heights  of  "  moun- 
tains on  mountains  hurled  " ;  then  the  China  BlufiF,  the 
Big  Canon,  the  Jackass  Mountain,  until  we  halt  for  night 
at  Lytton.' 

Walking  in  advance  for  exercise,  Mr.  Derrick  took 
the  wrong  road,  the  stage  passed  him,  and  he  had  to 
wait  two  weeks  for  the  next.  But  at  Bonaparte  he 
found  a  welcome,  a  congregation  and  a  collection  of  $15. 
"  Thank  you,  sir,"  said  one  man,  "  this  is  the  first  sermon 
preached  here,  and  I  had  not  heard  one  for  five  years." 
He  preached  in  other  places  also.  The  third  day  after 
his  arrival  at  Cariboo  $250  were  subscribed.  The  next 
day  a  shell  of  a  building  served  for  a  church,  as  it  did 
for  weeks,  until  stalls  were  put  in — then  they  thought  of 

234 


CANADA'S   ENLARGING    SPHERE 

the  stable  and  the  manger.  Soon  they  occupied  the  new 
church ;  a  parsonage  in  the  rear,  with  three  rooms ;  a 
carpet,  the  gift  of  Mrs.  Meacham,  on  the  floor — site  and 
buildings  costing  $i,8oo.  He  preached  also  at  Mosquito 
Creek,  seven  miles  by  dog  sleigh. 

The  Rev.  George  Young,  Red  River,  writes  John  Mc- 
Donald, Esq.,  Feb.  25th,  1869,  thankfully  acknowledging 
the  help  sent,  says  they  are  digging  for  a  foundation, 
and  hope  to  see  the  "  glorious  edifice  "  rising  by  and  by. 
His  mission  extends  eighty  miles. 

'  In  Wesley  Hall,  Winnipeg,  we  have  a  Sunday  School 
and  preaching,  afternoon  service  in  a  private  house  at 
Sturgeon  Creek,  six  miles  out ;  Sunday  School  at  4.30 
and  preaching  at  5.30,  Gowler  farm,  closing  with  class 
and  prayer-meeting — then  sleeping  in  buffalo  robes  on 
sweetly-scented  hay.  At  5  o'clock  next  morning  ofif  for 
forty  miles  drive,  preaching  in  the  evening  to  a  hastily 
gathered  company.  Tuesday — Eight  miles  to  High  Bluff, 
attentive  worshippers  and  a  fellowship  meeting.  Wednes- 
day— Twenty-seven  miles  to  White  Mud  River,  with 
parties  who  came  for  me ;  preached  to  a  few,  visited 
several  poor  families.  Next  morning  preaching  at  Q 
o'clock  and  sacrament,  then  27  miles  to  High  Bluff  for 
service  in  the  evening.' 

A  settlement  has  been  effected  with  the  Hudson's  Bay 
Company :  Canada  to  pay  the  Company  £300,000  sterling 
and  allow  certain  land  privileges,  etc. 

Rev.  Geo.  McDougall  writes,  Victoria,  May  ist,  1869: 
'  One  noble  old  Cree  chief — Mas-ke-pe-toon — started 
about  two  weeks  ago  for  the  Blackfeet  camp,  hoping  to 
arrange  a  peace  between  the  tribes.  As  he  was  approach- 
ing the  camp,  bearing  a  white  flag  and  an  open  Bible,  a 
Blackfoot  shot  him.  Seven  others  of  our  Crees  were  cut 
to  pieces.' 

New  churches  have  been  recently  dedicated  on  the 
Brooklin,  Streetsville,  Clark's  Mills,  Newcastle,  Tillson- 
burg,  Fairfield,  Mitchell,  and  other  circuits. 

In  connection  with  the  Convocation  of  Victoria  Col- 

235 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

lege,  the  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon,  M.A.,  preached  the 
baccalaureate  sermon,  and  delivered  his  celebrated  lecture 
on  "  The  Huguenots." 

"  Cobourg,  May  21st,  1869.  It  is  a  little  more  than 
forty  years  since  I  was  appointed  to  the  Whitby  Circuit. 
It  embraced  seven  townships.  I  added  two  more.  We  had 
eighteen  appointments,  but  no  chapels.  We  found  one 
hundred  white  and  two  hundred  Indian  members.  Flour 
was  seven  dollars  a  barrel.  We  had  five  children,  and 
received  $212.  This  had  to  meet  all  our  claims — chil- 
dren, table  expenses,  fuel,  horse-keep  and  salary.  Our 
friends  built  us  a  log  parsonage.  W^e  were  blessed  with 
a  good  revival,  and  our  net  increase  the  first  year  was 
100.  Changes  have  taken  place.  W^here  we  had  one 
circuit,  there  are  ten,  with  forty  chapels.  Instead  of 
hundreds  there  are  thousands  of  members.  Some  seven- 
teen persons  who  were  members  there  when  I  com- 
menced my  labors  are  living  still,  and  witnesses  for 
Christ.  Many  of  them  are  aged  and  infirm ;  nine  are 
widows.  I  am  in  my  77th  year,  and  in  good  health ; 
have  travelled  2,000  miles  and  read  33  books  during  the 
year." — Robert  Corson. 


Annesley  Hall,  Toronto. 
236 


CHAPTER  XX. 

1869-70. 

INSURRECTION  AND  LOYALTY. 

Conference,  Toronto — British  Columbia,  Red  River — Wesley— 
Riel—Scott— Conference,  1870 — McGill  Square— Mrs.  Pun- 
shon  —  Lay  Agency — Education — The  Trent — Sherbrooke — 
Committees — Recommendations — Colleges. 

The  Conference  assembled  in  Richmond  St.  Church, 
Toronto,  on  the  2nd  of  June,  1869.  President.  Rev. 
W.  M.  Punshon,  M.A. ;  Secretary,  Rev.  Charles  Lavell, 
M.A. ;  Co-Delegate,  Rev.  George  Douglas. 

Into  full  connection — John  Wilson,  Charles  A,  Hanson, 
Carl  Alum,  Christopher  Cookman,  Jos.  H.  Locke,  Jos. 
M.  Hagar,  B.A.,  Geo.  A.  Mitchell,  B.A.,  John  Smiley, 
M.A.,  John  Scanlon,  John  W.  Totten,  Thomas  Colling, 
B.A.,  Thomas  Campbell,  Geo.  H.  Squire,  B.A.,  Wm. 
Raney. 

Forty-five  young  men  were  received  on  tria^ 

Book  Stezvard — Samuel  Rose. 

Editor — Edward  H.  Dewart. 

Secretary  of  S.  S.  Union — John  Carroll. 

Total  number  of  members,  62,600;  increase,  2,156. 

The  Revs.  W.  G.  Campbell,  of  the  Irish  Conference, 
and  the  Rev.  W.  F.  Clarke,  of  the  Congregational  Union, 
were  introduced. 

The  Report  of  the  Book  Room  was  very  encouraging. 
Nearly  30,000  volumes  and  about  as  many  pamphlets 
had  been  issued  during  the  year.  The  value  of  the  stock 
was  about  $15,000,  and  the  profits  over  $4,000. 

The  change  of  Editor  was  the  result  of  a  persistent 
canvass  during  the  year,  and  was  probably  the  first  time 
anything  of  the  kind  had  been  attempted  by  any  member 

237 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

of  Conference.  It  was  feared  that  the  success  attending 
the  innovation  might  prove  a  temptation  for  its  repe- 
tition, or  lead  others  to  resort  to  similar  unbrotherly 
tactics.  Dr.  Jeffers,  who  for  nine  years  had  wielded  the 
editorial  pen  with  singular  ability,  was  presented  with 
a  gold  watch  and  an  address  in  token  of  the  esteem  of 
his  brethren. 

The  motion  for  Division  of  Conference  was  deferred. 

The  Revs.  John  Borland  and  George  Douglas  were 
appointed  to  convey  the  greetings  of  the  Conference  to 
the  Congregational  Union. 

The  rule  forbidding  the  election  of  the  same  person  as 
President  oftener  than  once  in  four  years  was  suspended. 

For  the  first  time  no  invitation  was  received  for  the 
next  Conference.  On  this  becoming  known,  the  Toronto 
East  Official  .Board  sent  in  an  invitation. 

The  Daily  Recorder  was  issued  during  Conference. 

The  Rev.  Edward  White  sends  an  exhilarating  ac- 
count of  a  thousand-mile  tour  among  the  mission  stations 
of  British  Columbia: 

'  Set  out  Sept.  2ist,  preached  at  Maple  Bay,  overland 
to  Victoria,  cheering  service  in  Yale,  thirteen  miles  along 
the  foaming  Eraser  and  over  the  suspension  bridge. 
After  all  I  had  heard  about  the  grandeur  and  wildness 
of  the  scenery,  I  must  confess  that,  rushing  along  Jack- 
ass Mountain,  seated  with  the  driver,  the  Eraser  1,500 
feet  below  us,  the  mountain  rising  5,000  feet,  the  wind- 
ing road  hewn  out  of  solid  rock,  I  felt  what  was  meant 
by  "  painfully  sublime."  In  large  letters  we  read,  "  Meals 
one  dollar,"  "  Beds  one  dollar."  Next  morning  ofif  early, 
along  the  Thompson  and  Bonaparte  rivers,  country 
wild  but  beautiful,  80  miles  to  Clinton ;  then  53  miles 
to  Bridge  Creek,  where  we  met  Bro.  Derrick.  Next  day 
80  miles  to  Soda  Creek,  where  we  struck  the  Eraser 
again,  went  aboard  the  Victoria,  and  made  sixty  miles 
against  the  current  in  eleven  hours ;  met  some  old  friends, 
and  on  to  Barkerville,  60  miles — a  town  much  improved 
since  the  fire.  Population  of  Cariboo  estimated  at  3,000 
— one-fourth  Chinese.     Mining  interests  have   suffered. 

238 


INSURRECTION   AND   LOYALTY 

Wages  six  to  ten  dollars  a  day ;  board  twelve  to  sixteen 
per  week.  I  don't  wonder  Bro.  Derrick  is  perfectly  at 
home  in  such  a  place,  with  such  a  people.' 

The  new  granite  church  in  Stanstead,  C.E.,  was  dedi- 
cated Sept.  30th,  1869,  by  the  President.  The  church  is 
64x120,  exclusive  of  tower  and  porches.  The  auditorium, 
upholstered  and  carpeted,  is  separated  from  the  lecture- 
room  by  doors  on  pulleys.  Arrangements  for  Sunday 
School  and  social  services  are  most  complete.  In  the 
basement  are  furnaces,  kitchen,  gas  works,  etc.  The 
cost  exceeded  $60,000,  American  money,  of  which 
$36,000  came  from  the  main  originator  of  the  project — 
Carlos  Pierce,  Esq.  On  Monday  evening  Mr.  Punshon 
gave  his  brilliant  lecture,  "  Macaulay." 

This  is  probably  the  most  beautiful  and  complete 
Methodist  Church  in  Canada,  outside  the  cities.  When 
the  undertaking  was  suggested  by  Mr.  Pierce,  he  was 
told,  "  We  are  not  able  to  build."  "  Go  to  work,"  said 
he,  "  and  I  will  pay  half  of  a  $10,000  house."  Plans  were 
prepared  and  estimates  made,  running  up  to  nearly  twice 
the  sum  proposed.  "  I  will  pay  half,"  said  Mr.  Pierce, 
and  set  men  to  work  in  his  granite  quarries.  The  work 
went  on,  further  estimates  became  necessary,  Mr.  Pierce 
still  offering  to  pay  half — and  all  the  cost  above  $30,000. 
In  the  absence  of  contracts,  the  expenditure  far  exceeded 
calculations,  but  Mr.  Pierce  generously  saw  it  through, 
even  adding  organ,  clock  and  bell. 

The  Annual  Meeting  of  the  Missionary  Society  was 
held  in  Ottawa,  John  McDonald,  Esq.,  presiding.  Report 
and  Financial  Statement  by  Drs.  Wood  and  Taylor; 
addresses  by  Dr.  Beatty,  Judge  Deacon,  Revs.  Dr. 
Jeffers,  Charles  Lavell,  and  W.  M.  Punshon. 

Great  dissatisfaction  prevails  among  the  half-breeds 
at  Red  River,  and  opposition  to  the  policy  of  the  Govern- 
ment.    The  Rev.   George   Young  remains   at  his   post, 

239 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

counselling  peace,  but  fearing  disaster.  A  small  force 
under  Schultz  and  Boulton  was  captured  by  Riel  and 
held  as  prisoners. 

Some  years  ago  Father  Chiniquy  became  well  known 
throughout  the  Province  of  Quebec  for  his  zeal  in  Tem- 
perance work,  almost  rivalling  Father  Alatthews.  He 
also  published  a  pamphlet  on  the  errors  of  Protestantism. 
Going  to  the  United  States,  he  became  known  as  a  very 
zealous  Protestant.  He  returned  to  Canada,  zealous  as 
ever  in  the  cause  of  Temperance,  and  openly  avowing 
Protestant  principles.  He  lectured  in  Montreal  and 
other  places,  exposing  the  errors  of  his  early  belief  and 
teaching,  and,  though  fiercely  assailed  by  his  former 
friends,  won  the  ear  of  thousands  of  his  countrymen. 

The  Revue  des  Deux  Mondcs,  the  most  influential 
literary  journal  in  France,  recently  published  a  lengthy 
article  on  John  Wesley,  by  Charles  de  Remusat,  a  dis- 
tinguished scholar,  who  has  been  studying  England,  her 
literature  and  religion,  and  wrote  this  article  to  introduce 
John  Wesley  to  the  French  people.  He  gives  the  account 
of  Mr.  Wesley,  his  preaching,  and  revivals,  in  his  own 
words,  and  even  corrects  misrepresentations  of  some 
English  writers.  He  explains  the  physical  phenomena, 
witnessed  under  Methodist  preaching,  as  not  unusual 
effects  of  violent  emotion: 

"  These  abrupt  transitions  from  the  power  of  Satan 
to  the  power  of  God  were  not  attested  by  tears,  sighs 
and  groanings  only,  but  by  a  new  life,  a  lasting  improve- 
ment, lions  became  lambs.  We  must  either  consider 
Wesley  a  false  witness  or  acknowledge  that  it  was  the 
work  of  God.  The  gifts  of  the  Holy  Spirit  are  not 
visions.  The  work  and  example  of  Whitfield  and  Wes- 
ley have  exercised  an  indirect  influence  much  greater  in 
the  eyes  of  the  historian  than  the  immediate  effects  of 
their  preaching,  and  given  birth  in  Great  Britain  and  in 
the  countries  of  British  origin  to  a  religious  movement 

240 


INSURRECTION   AND   LOYALTY 

which  has  altogether  contradicted  the  predictions  of  such 
lookers-on  as  Voltaire  and  Montesquieu." 

Such  attention  to  Wesley  by  a  French  writer  is  scarcely 
surprising,  when  such  names  as  Shakespeare,  Scott, 
Byron,  and  many  more,  are  acknowledged  to  have  left 
an  indelible  impress  on  French  literature.  In  the  vigorous 
pages  of  Victor  Hugo,  De  Vigny,  George  Sand  and 
Balzac,  the  influence  of  Gothic  freedom  and  force  is 
clearly  discernible.  The  French  intellect  takes  as  natur- 
ally to  close  observation  as  to  scientific  investigation. 
The  study  of  cause  and  effect  by  Remusat  finds  illustra- 
tion in  such  writers  as  M.  Zola,  in,  for  example,  his 
influential  though  scarcely  logical  essay,  "  Le  Roman 
Experimental,"  as  he  duly  estimates  both  the  observa- 
tions of  the  astronomer  and  the  scientific  experiments 
of  the  chemist. 

No  honest  student  of  the  moral  and  religious  condition 
of  England  during  the  early  and  later  years  of  the 
eighteenth  century — the  supine  indifference  of  the  clergy 
to  spiritual  interests,  the  declension  and  decav  of  dis- 
senting Churches,  the  immoralities  in  which  high  and 
low  were  steeped — with  the  awakened  sensibilities  and 
fresh  heartbeat  of  religious  life  developed  through  the 
middle  and  later  years  of  the  century,  without  paying  a 
meed  of  tribute  to  the  zealous  band  of  Oxford  students, 
who  went  out  as  the  heralds  of  a  resuscitated  evangelism 
to  awaken  slumbering  Churches.  Though  "  despised  and 
rejected  of  men,"  they  were  "  mighty  through  God  to  the 
pulling  down  of  strongholds." 

During  the  winter  the  insurrection  in  the  North- West 
gathered  strength.  A  Provisional  Government  was 
formed,  with  Louis  Riel  as  President,  and  a  force  of 
volunteers  was  armed  and  drilled.  Many  loyal  men  were 
made  prisoners,  and  some  were  sentenced  to  be  shot: 
but  Thomas  Scott  was  the  only  one  upon  whom  the 
sentence  was  carried  out. 

i6  241 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

March  5th,  1870,  the  Rev.  George  Young  writes  a 
brother,  Mr.  Hugh  W.  Scott,  of  Toronto : 

'  Your  brother  was  taken  prisoner  by  Mr.  Riel  in  De- 
cember, but  made  his  escape ;  he  was  again  taken,  with 
forty-seven  others.  The  day  before  yesterday  he  was 
tried  and  sentenced  to  be  shot  the  next  day.  I  stayed 
with  him,  and  we  spent  the  evening  in  prayer.  Next 
morning  I  went  with  Mr.  Smith  to  intercede  with  Riel, 
but  to  no  purpose.  When  led  out  from  the  walls  of  Fort 
Garry,  he  knelt  in  prayer  and  so  remained  until  tke  fatal 
shots  were  fired.  I  have  begged  the  body,  and  if  we 
secure  it,  will  write  again.' 

Mr.  S.  H.  Harvard,  of  Toronto,  writes : 

'  On  my  outward  trip  last  summer,  I  had  in  the  coach 
from  St.  Cloud  one  fellow-passenger — a  fine,  tall,  mus- 
cular youth,  some  twenty-four  years  of  age — and  I  was 
singularly  struck  with  his  inoffensive  bearing  towards 
everyone.  In  a  lonely  inn  by  the  wayside  we  shared  a 
bed  together.  This  was  Thomas  Scott,  who  has  been 
murdered  in  cold  blood.' 

Capt.  Rowe,  of  Madoc,  writes : 

'  I  have  to  inform  you  that  the  unfortunate  man — 
Scott — who  has  been  murdered  by  that  scoundrel,  Riel, 
was  for  some  time  a  member  of  my  company,  and  did 
duty  with  the  battalion  at  Stirling  in  1868.  He  was  a 
splendid  fellow,  about  six  feet  two  inches.' 

"  The  death  of  Scott  will  not  be  fruitless.  It  will  put 
an  end  to  the  vacillations  of  the  past  and  kindle  a  feeling 
through  the  country  that  will  be  too  strong  for  those  who 
recently  sympathized  with  Riel  and  the  Jesuits  of  the 
North-West." 

A  military  expedition,  sent  out  by  the  Government, 
speedily  subdued  the  rebellion. 

London — 

'  The  Dundas  St.  Church  was  opened  on  the  4th  of 
April,  1870,  the  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon,  M.A.,  preaching 
the  dedication  sermon.  On  the  following  evening  Mr. 
Punshon  lectured  on  "  Wesley  and  His  Times."  ' 

Bowmanville — 

'  On  Easter  Sunday,  1870,  our  new  church  was  dedi- 
cated, the  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon  preaching  morning  and 

242 


INSURRECTION   AND   LOYALTY 

evening,  and  Rev.  Wm.  Pollard  in  the  afternoon.  On 
Monday  evening  a  lecture  was  given  on  the  Prince  of 
Dreamers  by  the  Prince  of  Orators. 

'  Expenditure,  $7,500 ;  of  which  $4,800  still  due,  was 
raised  in  a  few  minutes;  liberality  seldom  equalled.' — 
G.  N.  A.  F.  T.  Dixon. 

The  Conference  for  1870  met  in  the  Adelaide  St. 
Church,  Toronto,  on  the  ist  of  June. 

President,  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon,  M.A. ;  Secretary, 
Alex.  Sutherland.  Of  300  ministers  appointed  to  attend, 
230  were  present. 

The  President  read  Mr.  Bradburn's  rules,  written  for 
his  own  guidance  during  Conference: 

1.  Be  tender  of  the  character  of  every  brother. 

2.  Say  nothing  but  what  is  strictly  necessary. 

3.  If  accused,  avoid  recrimination. 

4.  Beware  of  impatience ;   firm,  but  open  to  conviction. 

5.  Use  no  guile  nor  craft. 

6.  Guard  against  self-confidence;  despise  no  opponent. 

7.  Avoid  lightness — "  Thou  God  seest  me." 

"  If  these  rules  be  observed  by  us,  not  only  will  our 
business  be  transacted  with  a  dignity  befitting  the  highest 
court  of  our  Church,  but  our  session  may  be  a  blessed 
means  of  grace." 

The  Co-Delegate,  Rev.  Ephraim  Evans,  D.D.,  was  in- 
vited to  the  platform. 

A  resolution,  acknowledging  the  efficient  services  and 
generous  contributions  of  the  President  during  the  past 
year,  was  heartily  adopted. 

The  President  acknowledged  the  kindness  of  his 
brethren,  but  would  have  had  the  reference  to  his  givings 
omitted,  as  he  had  long  since  adopted  the  principle  of 
systematic  beneficence. 

The  Rev.  Gervase  Smith,  Delegate  from  the  English 
Conference ;  the  Rev.  Drs.  Lindsay  and  Lowrey,  from 
the  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  U.S.,  were  introduced. 

243 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

A  meeting  was  held  on  Thursday  evening  for  the 
reception  of  the  Delegates.  The  Rev.  Arthur  Browning, 
from  British  Cohimbia,  received  a  hearty  welcome  home. 
Received  into  full  connection — John  H.  Robinson,  John 
S.  Fisher,  Nathaniel  Smith,  Thomas  M.  Campbell,  George 
Clark,  Albert  C.  Wilson,  Anselm  Schuster. 

Henry  S.  Matthews  was  received  from  the  Primitive 
Methodist  Church. 

Twenty-two  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — Cyrus  R.  Allison.  July  ist,  1869,  aged  74  years. 

Wm.  H.  Schofield,  M.A.,  Oct.  22nd,  1869,"  aged  29 

years. 
Wm.  T.  Hewitt,  Dec.  9th,  1869,  aged  70  years. 
James  H.  Bishop,  Dec.  25th,  1869,  aged  43  years. 
Samuel  Connor,  Jan.  7th,  1870,  aged  33  years. 
R.  Cooney,  D.D.,  March  i8th,  1870,  aged  69  years. 
James  Fear,  April  17th,  1870,  aged  29  years. 
R.  W.  Ferrier,  M.A.,  May  2nd,  1870,  aged  32  years. 
Total  of  members.  64,688 ;  increase,  2,088. 
The  Book  Steward  and  the  Editor  were  re-elected. 

The  British  Conference  was  asked  to  allow  the  Canada 
Conference  to  elect  its  own  President  next  year.  The 
Rev.  G.  R.  Sanderson  was  nominated  as  Co-Delegate. 

The  President  preached  the  ordination  sermon. 

The  Delegates  from  other  Conferences  preached  in 
several  churches. 

The  Rev.  Gervase  Smith  delivered  two  very  excellent 
lectures  on  "  The  Siege  of  Derry  "  and  "  Wycliffe." 

The  revised  Discipline  was  adopted. 

The  Rev.  George  Douglas,  LL.D.,  renewed  his  notice 
of  motion  on  the  expediency  of  dividing  the  Conference. 

The  Endowment  Fund  of  Victoria  College  had  reached 
$70,000. 

A  letter  and  resolutions  were  received  from  the  New 
Connexion  Conference,  strongly  favoring  negotiations 
for  Union. 

The  Revs.  Dr.  Green  and  E.  B.  Harper,  M.A.,  were 
appointed  Delegates  to  the  Kirk  of  Scotland. 

244 


INSURRECTION   AND   LOYALTY 

The  Revs.  H.  D.  Powis  and  A.  Duff,  Delegates  from 
the  Congregational  Union,  and  the  Revs.  Robt.  Boyle 
and  Wm.  Rowe,  from  the  Primitive  Methodist  Confer- 
ence, were  introduced  and  addressed  the  Conference. 

The  Revs.  S.  Rose  and  H.  F.  Bland  were  appointed 
Delegates  to  the  Primitive  Methodist  Conference,  and 
the  Revs.  C.  Lavell  and  E.  H.  Dewart  to  the  Congrega- 
tioiial  Union.  The  Rev.  Gervase  Smith  was  requested  to 
represent  the  Canada  Conference  in  the  British  Con- 
ference. 

The  corner-stone  of  the  Metropolitan  Church,  to  be 
erected  on  McGill  Square,  Toronto,  was  laid  on  the  24th 
of  August,  1870,  by  the  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson,  Mr.  Punshon, 
with  other  ministers  and  laymen,  assisting. 

The  Adelaide  St.  Church  having  been  sold,  farewell 
sermons  were  preached  in  it  on  the  28th  of  August  by 
Rev.  Drs.  Green  and  Ryerson^ — the  congregation  to 
occupy  a  temporary  tabernacle  on  the  Square. 

The  sudden  death  of  Mr.  Punshon's  wife,  on  the  23rd 
of  September,  caused  deep  sorrow  and  general  sympathy. 

By  the  crushing  disaster  at-  Sedan,  the  bloody  conflict 
between  France  and  Prussia  was  ended.  Napoleon  III. 
"  has  flung  away  his  power,  his  fortune,  his  people, 
his  destiny,  and  has  filled  his  country  with  fire,  blood  and 
tears." 

The  Annual  Meeting  of  the  Missionary  Society  was 
held  in  Port  Hope.  Sermons  were  preached,  Oct.  9th, 
1870,  by  Revs.  W.  M.  Punshon  and  Dr.  Evans,  At  the 
public  meeting  the  Hon.  James  Ferrier,  of  Montreal, 
being  called  to  the  chair,  said :  '  Methodism,  by  its  ag- 
gressive energy,  its  use  of  lay  agency  and  its  recognition 
of  the  social  element  in  humanity,  is  specially  adapted 
to  this  growing  country.  Its  record  is  full  of  encourage- 
ment and  bright  with  promise  for  the  future.  Our  zeal 
and  godly  enterprise  should  keep  pace  with  the  rapid 
progress    of   our   population    and   our   extension    in   the 

245 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

North-West.  Weighty  responsibilities  are  upon  us. 
Greater  victories  and  richer  fruits  of  missionary  toil  are 
before  us,  if  God  enable  us  to  go  forward  and  faithfully 
use  the  opportunities  opened  to  us  by  His  providence.' 

Rev.  Drs.  Wood,  Taylor,  Green,  Arthur  Browning; 
Hon.  J.  C.  Aikens,  Secretary  of  State;  Wm  Beatty, 
Esq.,  M.P.P.  for  Welland;  Wm.  Clendenning,  Esq.,  of 
Montreal,  and  others,  took  part  in  the  exercises. 

Income  for  the  past  year,  abou<^^  $75,000;  increase, 
$2,500.  The  parent  society  made  a  special  grant  towards 
paying  off  the  debt,  on  the  understanding  that  henceforth 
the  Society  must  depend  on  Canadian  resources. 

At  the  request  of  the  President,  the  second  Sabbath  of 
November  was  observed  by  Methodist  ministers  and 
people  as  a  day  of  thanksgiving. 

The  Bishop  of  Exeter,  England,  advocating  important 
reforms  in  the  Church,  laid  special  emphasis  on  lay  co- 
operation. Instead  of  being  encouraged  and  sedul- 
ously employed  in  the  Methodist  Church,  as  aforetime, 
it  is  too  often  undervalued  and  neglected.  John  Wesley,  at 
the  first,  was  timid  in  admitting  lay  assistants,  but,  yield- 
ing to  clearly-indicated  providential  direction,  he  learned 
the  value  of  lay  helpers,  and  provided  for  their  general 
employment,  with  incalculable  relief  to  himself  and 
benefit  to  the  people.  Not  as  preachers  only,  but  as 
leaders,  stewards,  and  members  of  society,  they  were  to 
find  active  w^ork  "  watching  over  each  other  in  love." 
Every  member  was  enlisted  as  a  co-worker.  By  indi- 
vidual and  mutual  effort  the  societies  were  established 
and  multiplied.  As  to  the  results  attained  by  the  ever- 
increasing  army  of  lay  workers,  the  early  records 
abundantly  testify.  It  is  not  to  the  credit  of  the  Church 
which  was  the  first  to  recognize  and  employ  this  effective 
arm  of  the  service  to  discourage  "its  employment  or 
permit   its   disuse. 

246 


INSURRECTION   AND   LOYALTY 

A  local  preacher's  experience : 

"  For  the  last  twelve  years  I  have  filled  the  office  of  a 
local  preacher.  Frequently  under  the  scorching  summer 
sun  or  the  cold,  wintry  blasts,  I  have  travelled  thirty 
miles  on  the  Sabbath,  preached  three  times,  led  two 
classes,  and  paid  horse  hire,  amounting  on  an  average 
to  sixty  dollars  a  year.  This  was  in  country  settlements, 
where  local  preachers  are  received  with  as  cordial  a 
welcome  as  ever.  They  require  more  sympathy,  encour- 
agement, counsel  from  ministers,  periodical  meetings  and 
other  means  of  improvement.  This  is  the  testimony  of 
one  who  has  watched  with  much  solicitude  the  gradual 
decline  of  primitive  Methodist  usages." — Ottawa. 

Mr.  Punshon  in  Boston : 

'  On  Thursday  evening  last,  in  the  Music  Hall,  the 
Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon  pleased  exceedingly  a  great  audi- 
ence by  his  portraiture  of  "  Macaulay."  It  seemed  as  if 
Macaulay  wrote  for  Punshon  to  speak.  We  should  like 
to  hear  him  give  not  only  his  "  Milton,"  but  his  "  Lays  of 
Ancient  Rome."  No  man  pronounces  a  poem  on  the  plat- 
form equal  to  Mr.  Punshon.' — Zion's  Herald. 

The  Methodist  Book  Room  is  much  improved — new 
windows,  new  signs,  and  the  floor  lowered. 

The  Christian  Guardian  on  Union : 

'  Important  advantages  would  accrue  to  Canadian 
Methodism  from  an  amicable  union  of  all  its  forces. 
Some,  indeed,  may  honestly  think  that  the  different  sec- 
tions of  the  Methodist  family  create  a  wholesome  rivalry 
and  stimulate  each  other  to  greater  zeal  and  liberality 
than  would  be  likely  were  they  all  in  one  Church.  But 
such  small  advantages  are  more  than  counterbalanced  by 
serious  disadvantages.  A  united  Church  would  econo- 
mize resources,  present  increased  power,  and  exert  a 
moral  influence  for  the  suppression  of  jealousy,  rivalry, 
and  the  development  of  religious  life.  The  Canada  Chris- 
tian Advocate  speaks  of  the  present  state  of  things  as 
"  inexcusable  and  lamentable."  "  Methodism  in  this 
country  should  move  forward  not  in  straggling  bands, 
but  as  a  united  host,  to  the  accomplishment  of  its  grand 
mission  for  the  glory  of  God  and  the  good  of  our  com- 
mon country."     .     .     .     "So  soon  as  there  is  developed 

247 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

a  strong  and  general  feeling  of  brotherhood  and  desire 
for  organic  union,  it  will  vanquish  all  the  hindrances 
which  now  stand  in  the  way  of  forming  ONE  Methodist 
Church  for  Canada."  ' 

The  Rev.  S.  Morrison,  in  Canada  Christian  Advocate: 

'  It  seems  unaccountably  strange,  if  the  movement  for 
Union  has  been  carried  on  in  sincerity,  that  there  has 
been  no  meeting  of  the  committees.  Let  it  be  demon- 
strated that  bigotry  does  not  exist  in  the  Methodist 
Churches.  A  Primitive  Methodist  said  to  me  the  other 
day  that  Union  was  only  a  question  of  time.' 

The  Rev.  John  Carroll  writes : 

'  The  members  of  the  several  Methodist  Churches  are 
essentially  one  in  feeling  and  desire  for  Union.  A  Meth- 
odist Episcopal  minister  assures  me  that  a  little  free 
conversation  between  a  few  of  the  leading  ministers 
would  lead  to  a  solution  of  all  apparent  difificulties.  The 
poverty  under  which  many  of  the  ministers  prosecute 
their  work  is  one  of  the  least  evils  of  the  present  state 
of  things.' 

Education  in  Quebec: 

*  There  are  scores  of  boys  and  girls  in  Methodist 
homes  in  this  Province  upon  whom  the  Church  might 
confer  the  greatest  favor  by  placing  within  their  reach 
such  an  educational  institution  as  they  need.  They  would 
repay  it  a  hundredfold  by  and  by.  The  need  is  pressing, 
the  material  is  abundant,  and  the  means  are  adequate. 
Let  those  who  have  at  heart  the  interests  of  the  youth  of 
Methodism  in  Quebec  ponder  this  question.' — W. 

Mr.  Robert  Gardiner,  of  Britannia,  in  the  Township  of 
Toronto,  for  forty  years  an  exceptionally  able,  laborious 
and  acceptable  local  preacher,  a  sympathetic  co-worker 
with  the  ministers,  and  held  in  high  esteem  by  all  classes, 
died  on  the  25th  of  November,  1870,  after  a  few  weeks 
of  very  severe  illness.  Another  effective  local  preacher 
was  Mr.  James  Forster,  for  many  years  a  fellow-worker 
with  Mr.  Gardiner. 

Methodist  preachers  were  among  the  first,  in  most 
places  the  first,  to  preach  the  Gospel  to  the  new  settlers 
in  Canada,  and  by  the  blessing  of  God  upon  their  self- 

248 


INSURRECTION   AND   LOYALTY 

denying  and  persevering  labors,  very  blessed  results  have 
followed.  But  the  Methodist  Church  is  beginning  to 
realize  that  her  workers  have  scarcely  had  a  fair  chance. 
Under  the  pressure  of  need,  young  men  have  been  called 
suddenly  from  the  plough  or  the  forge  to  assume,  with 
slight  preparation,  not  the  duties  of  a  worker  only,  but 
the  responsibilities  of  a  leader.  Christ  chose  His  twelve, 
but  kept  them  for  some  years  in  special  preparation  for 
His  service.  Some  degree  of  mental  training  has  been 
possible  to  candidates  during  their  probation,  and  it  is 
to  their  credit  that  so  much  has  been  accomplished.  But 
the  training  has  been  limited,  and  the  theological  knowl- 
edge essentia]  to  their  work  has  been  but  partially  at- 
tained. The  conviction  deepens  that,  with  the  increasing 
demands  and  abilities  of  the  people,  better  provision 
should  be  made  for  placing  more  adequate  educational 
opportunities  within  the  reach  of  candidates  for  the  min- 
istry. To  consider  this  subject,  a  Committee  was  ap- 
pointed by  the  last  Conference. 

"  Forty-two  years  ago,"  writes  the  Rev.  John  Carroll, 
"  I  preached  the  first  Methodist  sermon  ever  delivered 
at  the  mouth  of  the  Trent,  now  called  Trenton.  There 
were  a  few  houses  on  the  east  side  of  the  river,  a  tavern 
or  two  and  a  few  huts  for  the  lumbermen,  on  the  west. 
The  only  means  of  crossing  the  river  was  a  scow.  Now 
it  is  spanned  by  a  strong,  covered  bridge.  The  village 
numbers  about  two  thousand,  with  a  beautiful  Methodist 
church  on  each  side.  Then  the  people  seldom  saw  a 
paper ;  now  they  read  the  dailies.  Then  there  was  not 
even  a  stage ;  now  there  are  four  railway  trains  each  way 
daily.  The  telegraph  had  not  been  heard  of ;  now  there 
are  two  lines,  and  wires  almost  innumerable.  At  the 
Carrying  Place  the  Methodists  now  worship  in  a  church, 
instead  of  the  old  schoolhouse.  The  picturesque  ceme- 
tery, where  sleep  the  '  forefathers  of  the  hamlet,'  has 
grown  more  beautiful.  Charles  Biggar  and  his  hospi- 
table wife  are  missed  from  the  old  white  house,  but 
James  Biggar  and  his  worthy  helpmeet  maintain  the 
reputation  of  the  place,  with  the  prospect  of  passing  it 

249 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

on  to  other  generations — Charles,  James,  George ;  so  may 
'  the  bright  succession  run.'  From  this  vicniity  came 
three  Methodist  ministers,  WilHam  Smith,  Hamilton 
Biggar  and  William  Young.' 

At  a  meeting  of  Methodist  ministers  and  laymen,  Dec, 
13th,  1870,  in  Sherbrooke,  Q.,  it  was  moved  by  Rev. 
E.  B.  Ryckman,  M.A.,  seconded  by  Rev.  Wm.  Jackson, 
and  resolved: 

"  That  we  believe  it  to  be  expedient  and  necessary  to 
establish  in  the  Province  of  Quebec  an  Institution,  under 
Methodist  control,  for  the  higher  education  of  our  youth 
of  both  sexes ;  and  that  a  public  meeting  be  called  to 
meet  at  Sherbrooke  on  the  nth  of  January  next,  at  ten 
o'clock  a.m.,  to  consider  the  project." — ^John  Wakefield, 
Chairman;  E.  S.  Orr,  Secretary. 

At  the  missionary  tea,  in  Montreal,  a  gentleman  offered 
fifty  dollars,  to  be  paid  so  soon  as  the  Wesleyan  and 
New  Connexion  Churches  unite. 

On  the  31st  of  January,  1871,  a  Union  Tea-Meeting  was 
held  in  Toronto  for  the  promotion  of  brotherly  feeling 
between  the  different  branches  of  the  Methodist  family.  It 
was  largely  attended  and  did  much  to  remove  the  barriers 
between  members  of  the  same  common  stock.  The  Hon. 
J.  C.  Aikens  presided,  and  among  those  present  were  Revs. 
Dr.  Evans,  S.  Rose,  W.  S.  Griffin,  Alex.  Sutherland, 
Bishop  Richardson,  James  Gardiner,  S.  Morrison,  Th. 
Webster,  Dr.  Cocker,  J.  McAllister,  W.  Tindall,  R. 
Boyle,  J.  Davison,  W.  Rowe,  J.  J.  Rice,  D.  Cantlin, 
Messrs.  Kennedy,  Wilkes,  Walker,  and  many  other 
members  of  the  churches  who  enjoy  a  foretaste  of  re- 
union. 

The  Union  Committees  of  the  Wesleyan,  New  Con- 
nexion, Primitive  and  Methodist  Episcopal  Churches  met 
in  the  Music  Hall,  Toronto,  and  after  a  free  and  full 
consultation,  adjourned,  to  meet  again  on  the  last  Tues- 
day in  March.  They  met  accordingly,  and  agreed  upon 
the  following  recommendations  to  be  submitted  to  the 
several  Conferences : 

250 


INSURRECTION    AND    LOYALTY 

That,  in  the  opinion  of  this  meeting,  a  scheme  of 
Union,  to  be  generally  acceptable,  should  embrace  the 
following  points : 

1.  That  a  General  Conference  should  be  formed,  to 
meet,  say  once  in  four  years,  having  power  to  make  rules 
and  regulations  for  the  whole  Church,  subject  to  such 
restrictions  as  may  be  imposed  by  the  Discipline. 

2.  That  Lay  Representation  in  the  General  Conference 
should  be  included,  in  such  form  as  may  be  agreed  upon. 

3.  That  the  Representatives  to  the  General  Conference 
should  be  elected — ministers  and  laymen  in  equal  num- 
bers. 

4.  That  in  case  of  the  admission  of  laymen  to  the 
General  Conference  for  purposes  of  legislation,  the 
Annual  Conferences  should  be  composed  of  ministers 
only,  who  have  travelled  four  years  and  been  received 
into  full  connexion ;  such  Conferences  to  have  the  right 
of  examining  ministerial  character,  and  of  stationing  the 
ministers  within  their  representative  bounds,  and  exer- 
cising general  administrative  powers. 

5.  That  one  or  more  General  Superintendents  should 
be  elected  by  the  General  Conference,  to  hold  office  for 
a  term  of  years  corresponding  to  the  term  of  the  said 
Conferences,  such  Superintendent  or  Superintendents  to 
be  set  apart  for  the  work  by  such  form  of  services  as  may 
be  agreed  upon,  to  be  amenable  to  the  General  Confer- 
ence for  all  their  official  acts,  and  to  be  eligible  for  re- 
election. 

6.  That  there  be  District  Meetings,  and  that  they  con- 
sist of  all  traveling  ministers  and  preachers  within  the 
District,  with  an  equal  number  of  laymen — to  be  ap- 
pointed as  may  be  determined — such  laymen  to  have 
the  right  of  taking  part  in  all  proceedings  except  in  the 
examination  of  ministerial  character. 

7.  That  the  United  Church  should  provide  by  legisla- 
tion for  the  continuation  of  Class-meetings,  Love-feasts, 
Leaders'  Meetings,  Quarterly  IMeetings,  and  Local 
Preachers'  Meetings,  on  the  Circuits  and  Districts. 

8.  That  persons  holding  the  office  of  Traveling 
Deacons  in  any  of  the  existing  Methodist  churches 
should  continue  in  possession  of  all  their  rights  and  the 
exercise  of  all  their  functions,  until  the  termination  of 
their  probation. 

251 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Resolved — That  these  General  Recommendations  be 
now  adopted  and  referred  to  the  various  Conferences; 
and  in  case  of  their  being  approved,  the  said  Conferences 
be  requested  to  take  such  steps  as  they  may  deem  neces- 
sary for  giving  the  said  recommendations  practical  effect. 
A.  Sutherland,  Robert  Waeker, 

Secretary.  Chairman  pro  tem. 

The  above  recommendations  were  read  in  the  Niagara 
Conference  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  and 
referred  to  a  Committee,  which  reported : 
'  That  a  just  and  honorable  union  of  the  Methodist 
Churches  was  desirable,  but  that  it  was  not  deemed  ex- 
pedient for  this  Conference  to  discuss  a  Basis  of  Union 
until  the  other  branches  of  Canadian  Methodism  were 
in  a  position  to  act  independently/ 

At  the  New-  Connexion  Conference,  held  in  Owen 
Sound,  in  June,  1871,  the  second  of  a  series  of  resolu- 
tions was : 

*  That  this  Conference  accepts  in  the  main  the  Basis 
of  Union  proposed,  as  moderate  and  fair  to  all  branches 
of  the  Methodist  Church,  as  it  recognizes  the  representa- 
tive position  of  the  laity  in  the  Legislative  Court  of  the 
Church.' 

Slight  modifications  were  suggested  in  the  Basis, 
affecting  District  Meetings. 

The  Observer,  Bible  Christian,  warned  against  haste 
in  attempting  to  precipitate  Union. 

A  series  of  letters  appeared  in  the  Provincial  IVes- 
leyan,  favoring  a  General  Conference  for  Canada. 

The  Rev.  Wm.  McClure;  ex-President  of  the  New  Con- 
nexion Conference,  died  February  19th,  1871. 

A  Prospectus  was  issued  for  the  proposed  new  College, 
in  the  Province  of  Quebec :  a  Joint  Stock  Company — 
fifteen  laymen  and  six  ministers  as  Directors. 

Compton  offered  $11,000  if  the  College  be  located  there. 

The  Baccalaureate  discourse  for  the  Victoria  College 
graduates  was  delivered  by  the  Rev.  Dr.  Nelles.  The 
number  of  students  increases  yearly  and  the  Convoca- 
tion was  of  great  interest. 

252 


INSURRECTION   AND   LOYALTY 

Lay  Representation  has  received  the  approval  of  con- 
siderable majorities  of  the  laity  and  of  ministers  in 
the  Annual  Conferences  of  the  M.  E.  Church,  U.S. 

The  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon,  with  Revs.  Hugh  Johnson 
and  Manly  Benson,  reached  Victoria,  B.C.,  April  nth, 
1871,  and  attended  the  District  Meeting,  preached,  lec- 
tured, ordained  Thomas  Crosby,  and  left  for  Puget 
Sound  April  25th. 

Churches  have  been  opened  at  Zion  Hill ;  Dundas  St., 
London;  Bowmanville ;  Elm  St.,  Toronto;  Lawrence- 
ville,  Q.;  Brooksdale,  Harmony,  Lloydtown,  Odessa. 
Emmons,  Shannonville,  etc. 

At  Sault  Ste.  Marie,  religious  services  have  been  held 
for  many  years  in  the  Court  or  school  house,  but  these 
being  no  longer  available,  the  Methodists,  aided  by  the 
Missionary  Society,  have  undertaken  the  building  of  a 
small  church,  costing  about  $1,200,  and  also  a  parsonage, 
towards  which  the  few  residents  have  contributed  about 
$600. 

Mr.  Richard  Woodsworth  came  from  England  to 
Toronto — then  Little  York — about  1830,  and  was  soon 
known  as  an  earnest  Methodist  and  an  effective  local 
preacher.  In  183 1  he  married  Miss  Mary  Ann  Watson, 
who  had  come  to  York  with  her  father  and  family  in 
1819.  They  were  members  of  the  Adelaide  and  George 
St.  Churches  until  the  building,  in  1845,  of  the  Richmond 
St.  Church,  of  which  Mr.  Woodsworth  was  architect  and 
builder,  and  in  which  they  held  their  membership  until 
the  Elm  St.  Church  was  built,  in  connection  with  which 
their  later  years  were  spent.  Mr.  Woodsworth  was 
taken  suddenly  ill  while  preaching  on  Sunday  evening, 
Jan.  22nd,  1871,  and  died  the  next  day.  He  was  a  man 
mighty  in  prayer,  in  which  he  may  be  likened  to  the  Rev. 
Dr.  Wood.  Mrs.  Woodsworth  survived  her  husband 
about  thirty  years.  Of  twelve  children,  several  died  early, 
and  two — James  and  Richard  W. — are  well-known  Meth- 
odist ministers. 

253 


CHAPTER  XXL 
1871-2. 

HOME  AND  FOREIGN  MISSIONS. 

Conference,  Belleville  —  Newcastle — Punshon — England — Statis- 
tics— Prince  Consort — Dixon — Japan — Manitoba — Metropoli- 
tan— Revivals — Basis  of  Union — Hart — Conference,  1872 — 
Jackson — Manitoba — Mrs.  Evans — Japan — Thunder  Bay. 

The  forty-eighth  Annual  Conference  met  in  the  new 
and  beautiful  Bridge  St.  Church,  Belleville,  on  the  7th 
of  June,   1871. 

The  English  Conference  having  granted  the  Canada 
Conference  the  privilege  of  electing  its  own  President, 
the  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon  was  elected  by  an  almost 
unanimous   vote. 

The  Rev.  Alex.  Sutherland  was  re-elected  Secretary, 
and  the  Rev.  G.  R.  Sanderson  took  his  seat  as  Co- 
Delegate. 

A  memorial  was  presented  from  Great  St.  James'  St. 
Church,  requesting  the  lengthening  of  the  term  of  a  min- 
ister's stay  on  a  circuit ;  another  was  in  regard  to  the 
founding  of  a  College  in  the  Province  of  Quebec. 

Received  into  full  connection — Wellington  W.  Carson, 
Peter  W.  Jones,  Alfred  L.  Russell,  B.A.,  Thomas  Jack- 
son, Edwin  McCollum,  Richard  W.  Woodsworth,  Ed- 
mund S.  Tones,  John  Mahan.  John  Scott,  B.A.,  John 
Saunders,  B.A.,  Charles  S.  Eby,  B.A.,  Jos.  W.  Sparling, 
B.A.,  Joseph  Hall,  Samuel  Sing,  John  Wilson,  B.A.,  John 
Ridley,  Ezekiel  Richardson,  Wm.  Andree,  Matthew  Rob- 
ison,  Ezra  Healy,  Robt.  McCullough,  Wm.  W.  Edwards, 
John  J.  Hare,  James  S.  Ross,  James  Pearen,  and  also 
Wm.  C.  Jolly,  Ch.  E.  Stafford,  James  H.   Stonehouse, 

254 


1.   Brings,  Will..  U.I). 
i.  Addison,  Rev.  Peter 
7.  Graham,  Rev.  James 


■-!.  Mrs.  Will.  Brings 

5.  Hill-,  Rev.  Joseph  H. 

8.  Stafford.'E.  A.,  D.D. 


a.^Siinpson.^Rev.  James  il. 
0.  McDonald,  L).,  M.D. 
'.».  Rogerson,  Hon.  J.  J 


HOME   AND   FOREIGN   MISSIONS 

from  the  Primitive  Methodist  Church ;  Ch.  V.  Lake,  John 
Hiscocks,  from  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church;  and 
Thomas  W.  Glover,  from  the  Bible  Christian  Church. 

Fifteen  candidates  were  received  on  probation. 
Died — Benjamin  Cole,  Aug^.  2nd.  1870,  aged  45  years. 

Alexander  Lester,  Aug.  8th,  1870,  aged  43  years. 
Thomas  Lawson,  Oct.  22nd,  1870,  aged  46  years. 
George  Robson,  Dec.  12th,  1870,  aged  32  years. 
Stephen  Miles,  Dec.  13th,  1870,  aged  80  years. 
S.  Brownell,  March  22nd,  1871,  aged  70  years. 
James  W.  Sloan,  June  2nd,  1871,  aged  35  years. 

Total  membership,  66,799;  increase,  2,111. 

The  Book  Steward  and  the  Editor  were  re-elected. 

Communications  were  received  from  the  Anglican, 
Presbyterian  and  Congregational  Churches,  suggesting 
co-operation  in  appointing  a  day  of  general  Thanksgiving, 
the  Government  having  declined  the  responsibility. 
Approval  was  given. 

The  President  having  requested  relief  from  official 
duty,  he  was  appointed  Representative  to  the  English 
Conference.  He  was  also  nominated  as  President  for 
next  year,  and  the  Rev.  John  Borland  as  Co-Delegate. 

The  founding  of  a  College  at  Stanstead  was  heartily 
sanctioned. 

The  Revs.  James  Elliott  and  Dr.  Rice  were  appointed 
Delegates  to  the  Eastern  Conference, 

The  resolutions  of  the  Union  Committees,  with  certain 
modifications,  were  accepted  as  a  Basis  of  Union. 

A  Committee  was  appointed  on  titles  to  church  prop- 
erty, and  to  secure  legislation  if  necessary. 

The  question  of  Lay  Delegation  was  discussed,  and 
referred  to  the  Quarterly  Meetings. 

A  Committee  was  appointed  on  Union ;  also  a  Com- 
mittee to  consult  with  a  Committee  of  the  Eastern 
Conference,  with  a  view  to  the  Confederation  of  Wes- 
leyan  Methodism  throughout  British  North  America. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Friday. 

255 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  generous  hospitality  of  Belleville  was  highly 
appreciated. 

'  The  Newcastle  region  has  furnished  to  the  itinerant 
ranks  three  Wilsons,  Walsh,  Jewell,  Jackson,  Potter,  Mc- 
Intyre,  and  perhaps  others,  and  Methodism  there  would 
be  still  stronger  if  united.  The  separate  existence  of  the 
atoms  cannot  long  resist  the  law  of  crystallization.  I 
believe  Wesleyan  ministers  and  members  stand  ready  to 
adopt  anything  of  value  from  the  other  systems.  Dr. 
Green  claims  to  have  preached  the  first  sermon  in  Clarke, 
and  the  writer  organized  the  first  permanent  class  in 
Newtonville,  in  1837.'^ — John  Carroll. 

The  Eastern  Conference  favorably  considered  the 
question  of  Union,  and  appointed  a  Committee.  *  The 
Canada  Conference  owes  us  much,'  said  the  Secretary, 
Rev.  D.  D.  Currie.  '  We  have  given  it  Enoch  Wood  and 
Samuel  D.  Rice,  with  little  in  exchange.  There  are  diffi- 
culties in  the  way  of  Union,  but  we  hope  to  see  them 
overcome.' 

Dr.  Pickard  had  always  thought  '  that  the  Wesleyan 
Church  in  British  America,  as  affiliated  to  the  British 
Conference,  should  be  one,  and  believed  the  members 
would  accept  a  proper  arrangement.' 

The  Rev.  James  R.  Narraway,  M.A.,  said: 

'  There  is  a  grand  prospect  opening  before  us.  We 
have  read  of  the  valleys  of  the  Saskatchewan  stretching 
away  towards  the  Pacific  Coast,  and  contemplate  the 
thousands  upon  thousands  rolling  into  that  land.  The 
Protestant  churches  will  have  enough  to  do  in  meeting 
their  spiritual  wants.  Why  should  Methodist  churches 
keep  asunder?  The  day  must  come  when  they  will  be 
one.     Let  the  Committee  be  appointed.' 

The  Rev.  Wm.  Pollard  and  family,  with  Rev.  Joseph 
Hall,  arrived  safely  at  Victoria,  B.C.,  on  the  9th  of  July. 
The  Rev.  E.  White  had  left  with  his  family  for  Canada. 

After  an  absence  of  three  years  the  Rev.  W.  M. 
Punshon,  M.A.,  received  a  hearty  welcome  home,  the 
Conference  rising  and  greeting  him  with  cheers.    Cana- 

256 


HOME   AND   FOREIGN   MISSIONS 

dians  may  well  feel  proud  of  their  Representative.  His 
address  was  given  in  an  open  session,  held  in  Free  Trade 
Hall,  the  audience  estimated  at  six  thousand,  including 
some  eight  hundred  ministers,  repeatedly  indicating  their 
delight  by  cheers  and  waving  of  handkerchiefs 

*  He  rose,  evidently  under  deep  emotion,  and  never 
have  we  heard  him  speak  with  greater  power,  telling  us 
of  the  vast  extent  of  British  North  America,  its  varied 
populations,  the  remarkable  progress  and  influence  of 
Methodism.' — Watchman. 

Mr.  Punshon,  with  Prof,  and  Mrs.  Reynar,  returned 
to  Canada  in  September. 

"  Shall  we  have  a  foreign  mission?  "  is  being  asked  in 
Canadian  missionary  circles,  and  many  are  thinking 
prayerfully  of  the  needs  and  openings  in  Japan.  Some 
think  our  present  extending  work,  with  the  great  in- 
crease of  foreign  population  likely  soon  to  enter  our 
great  North-West,  quite  sufficient  to  tax  our  resources 
of  men  and  means.  But  the  command  to  '  preach  the 
Gospel  to  every  creature  '  is  still  in  the  marching  orders. 
New  enterprises  awaken  fresh  interest,  and  wealth  lying 
idle  or  absorbed  in  worldly  speculation  might  open  the 
way  to  nations  perishing  in  ignorance. 

By  the  Synod  of  the  Canada  Presbyterian  Church, 
meeting  in  Montreal,  a  Basis  of  Union  between  the 
Presbyterian  Churches  was  unanimously  adopted — a 
helpful  example  to  Methodist  Churches. 

Very  grave  injustice  is  threatening  the  Indians  of  Two 
Mountains,  Quebec,  in  the  efforts  being  made  to  dis- 
possess them  of  their  lands. 

The  corner-stone  of  a  new  church  on  the  corner  of 
Carlton  and  Sherbourne  streets,  Toronto,  was  laid  on 
the  loth  of  October,  1871.  The  rapidly  increasing  popu- 
lation of  that  part  of  the  city  is  demanding  additional 
church  accommodation. 

17  257 


METHODISM   IN  CANADA 

Statistics  of  population — Census  of  1871 : 

1861.  1871.  Increase. 

Ontario    1,396,091  1,620,842  224,751 

Quebec    1,110,664  1,190,505  79,841 

Nova   Scotia    330,857  387,800  56,943 

New   Brunswick    .  .  .      252,047  285,777  33.740 


3,089,659         3484,924         395.275 

Rate  of  increase — Ontario,  16.9  per  cent. ;  Quebec, 
7.18;  Nova  Scotia,  17.21;  New  Brunswick,  13.38. 

Total  increase — 12.79  per  cent. 

Population  of  chief  cities — Toronto,  56,092 ;  Hamil- 
ton, 26,716;  London,  15,826;  Ottawa,  21,545;  Kingston, 
12,407;  Montreal,   107,225;  Quebec,  47,166. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Woolsey  presents  an  earnest  plea 
for  the  founding  of  a  College  in  the  North-West  to  meet 
the  necessities  of  the  English-speaking  population,  and 
for  the  training  of  missionaries. 

'  A  sample  career :  ''  When  the  late  Dr.  Carroll  found 
me  behind  a  druggist's  counter  in  185 1,  told  me  how  much 
young  men  were  needed,  and  asked  me  if  I  would  consent 
to  enter  the  ministry,  I  knew  nothing  and  thought  nothing 
about  salary  or  the  trials  before  me.  I  could  not  sleep  at 
night,  for  joy  that  God  had  called  me  to  the  work.  I  was 
like  a  man  whose  fetters  were  broken  and  he  was  free.  .  . 
I  was  but  an  exhorter,  and  was  sent  to  Nanticoke  Mis- 
sion' — now  embracing  almost  a  district.  In  two  months 
I  was  saturated  with  ague  and  was  removed  to  the  Elora 
Circuit.  In  the  backwoods  and  healthy  climate  I  got 
rid  of  ague.  All  I  received  in  nine  months  was  a  pair  of 
stockings  and  two  dollars  for  horse-shoeing.  Having  no 
cutter  I  had  to  ride  on  horse-back,  but  never  was  there  a 
happier  boy  on  all  that  round  as  I  rode  through  the 
woods,  singing,  '  I'll  praise  my  Maker  while  I've 
breath.'  And  my !  I  had  mv  pay,  too — in  souls  brought 
to  Christ.  The  next  year  I  went  further  back  into  the 
woods  of  Peel,  Maryboro  and  Wallace ;  got  my  board, 
but  very  little  money.  It  was  a  precious  year  to  me ; 
more  than  a  hundred  souls,  I  think,  were  brought  to 
Christ.  Don't  discourage  the  lads  who  think  they  are 
called  of  God  to  preach  the  Gospel." — James  Harris. 

258 


HOME   AND   FOREIGN    MISSIONS 

Methodists  believe  in  the  experience  of  religion,  the 
knowledge  of  sins  forgiven,  and  the  witness  of  the 
Spirit.  So  do  many  others.  When  the  Prince  Consort 
was  nearing  his  end,  his  last  Sabbath  on  earth,  while 
most  of  the  Royal  Family  were  at  church,  his  daughter 
Alice  watched  with  him.  Feeling  very  weak,  he  begged 
to  have  his  sofa  drawn  towards  the  window  that  he 
might  see  the  sky  and  the  clouds  passing.  At  his  request 
the  Princess  played  and  sang  several  of  his  favorite 
hymns.  As  she  ceased,  he  was  leaning  back,  his  eyes 
shut  and  his  hands  folded  in  prayer.  "  Were  you  asleep. 
Papa?  "  she  asked.  "  Oh,  no,"  he  answered,  "  only  I  have 
had  such  sweet  thoughts."  As  the  Queen  was  reading 
to  him  from  "  Heaven  Our  Plome,"  he  said :  "  We  do 
not  know  in  what  state  we  shall  meet  again,  but  that  we 
shall  know  each  other  and  be  together  in  eternity,  I  feel 
perfectly  sure." 

The  Rev.  James  Dixon,  D.D.,  who  was  President  of 
the  Canada  Conference  in  1848,  died  on  the  28th  of 
December,  1871,  at  Bradford,  Yorkshire,  in  the  84th 
year  of  his  age. 

The  Rev.  Edward  White,  recently  returned  from 
British  Columbia,  has  been  delivering  lectures  of  great 
interest  on  that  wonderful  country. 

The  Christian  Guardian  for  1872  appears  in  new  type 
and  change  of  form — more  pages  and  of  less  size.  Its 
columns  are  opened  freely  for  the  discussion  of  Union, 
and  the  views  of  many  writers  for  and  against  are  vigor- 
ously presented. 

A  Committee  appointed  to  investigate  the  opening  of 
a  mission  to  Japan  has  the  matter  under  consideration. 

A  Local  Preachers'  Convention,  Chatham  District, 
spent  two  days  very  profitably,  closing  with  a  love-feast 
and  the  Lord's  Supper. 

At  the  missionary  meeting  in  Winnipeg,  the  Hon.  Don- 
ald A.  Smith  occupied  the  chair;  the  Rev.  George  Young 

259 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

read  the  report,  and  addresses  were  delivered  by  Revs 
John  Black,  Presbyterian,  E.  R.  Young,  and  J.  W.  Tay- 
lor, U.  S.  Consul.  Contributions  were  $130 — $50  over 
the  total  of  last  year. 

The  Rev.  M.  Robison,  of  High  Bluff,  writes,  March 
loth,  1872: 

'  When  I  came  here  in  1869  I  found  a  class  of  seven 
persons.  ...  I  was  convinced  that  we  must  build, 
and  we  went  to  the  woods  with  our  axes.  We  knelt  upon 
the  ground  and  commended  the  undertaking  to  God. 
After  the  timber  was  brought  to  the  site  the  times  of 
trouble  came  on,  and  the  work  was  at  a  standstill.  With 
assistance  from  Bro.  Samuel  H.  Harvard,  of  Toronto, 
the  church  has  been  completed  at  a  cost  of  $1,100.  About 
the  same  time  we  built  the  Bethel  Church,  costing  $600. 
of  which  $350  were  paid  by  four  or  five  men  who  had 
recently  united  with  us.  We  have  about  thirty  members, 
a  class-meeting,  well  attended,  and  two  prayer-meet- 
ings. The  people  were  much  given  to  drunkenness,  but 
are  now  noted  for  sobriety  and  pledged  to  oppose  the 
liquor  traffic.  At  Gowler's,  Bro.  Wm.  Gowler  and  his 
wife  were  our  only  members;  now  there  are  over  twenty. 
The  timber  is  on  the  ground  for  a  church.  At  Portage 
la  Prairie  we  have  only  two  members,  but  a  good  congre- 
gation, which  would  be  much  larger  if  we  had  a  church. 
Mr.  Charles  Mair  gave  us  a  site,  and  the  timber  is  on  the 
ground.  There  will  be  much  building  next  summer  in 
this  nucleus  of  a  town,  or  possible  city.  From  the  Mis- 
sionary Society  we  have  a  grant  of  $500  towards  the 
erection  of  churches,  and  the  people  have  raised  about 
$800,  but  I  am  $400  out  of  pocket.  Unfortunately  for 
me  the  gift  of  $250  by  a  lady  was  included  in  the  grant, 
which  I  think  was  not  the  intention  of  the  unknown 
giver.  In  two  years  and  a  half  we  have  raised  about 
$2,200,  and  expect  to  put  $200  into  the  missionary 
treasury.' 

Montreal — 

*  On  New  Year's  morning  two  thousand  children 
crowded  the  spacious  galleries,  bringing  $2,347 — over 
one  dollar  each.  The  South  and  East  circuits  have  been 
divided,   with   great   benefit.      Neither  men   nor   money 

260 


HOME   AND   FOREIGN   MISSIONS 

should  be  spared  to  secure  the  suburbs  of  this  prosperous 
city.  Lachine,  opened  six  years  ago,  is  now  self-support- 
ing, and'ar-source  of  revenue.  We  want  more  ministers 
to  guard  our  interests  at  Longueuil,  St.  Lambert's  and 
the  Tanneries.  Romanism  has  richly-endowed  convents, 
and  we  should  have  a  Ladies'  Academy,  also  a  Theo- 
logical Hall.' 

The  Metropolitan  Church,  on  McGill  Square,  Toronto, 
was  dedicated  on  Thursday  morning,  April  4th,  1872. 
The  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon  opened  the  service,  Dr.  Wood 
led  in  prayer.  Dr.  Green  and  Rev.  Geo.  Cochran,  pastor 
of  the  church,  read  the  lessons,  and  Rev.  Dr.  Tififany,  of 
Newark,  N.J.,  preached  the  sermon. 

The  expenditure  for  site  and  church  was  $133,000,  of 
which  $60,000  had  been  provided.  Subscriptions  amount- 
ing to  $21,000  were  immediately  sent  in.  Mr.  Punshon 
then  proceeded  with  the  dedication. 

In  the  evening  John  McDonald,  Esq.,  presided,  and 
addresses  were  given  by  Mr.  Punshon,  Dr.  Tiffany  and 
others;  $5,000  additional  were  subscribed.  On  Sunday 
morning  Mr.  Punshon  preached,  from  Ps.  133:  8,  9 — 
"  Arise,  O  Lord,  unto  Thy  rest,"  and  Dr.  Tiffany  in  the 
evening.  On  Monday  evening  Dr.  Tiffany  lectured  on 
"  The  Yosemite  Valley  "  to  a  delighted  audience. 

Editorials  and  correspondence  in  the  Canada  Christian 
Advocate  indicate  great  diversity  of  opinion  in  the  Meth- 
odist Episcopal  Church  in  regard  to  Union. 

On  many  circuits  fruitful  revivals  are  reported. 
"  Methodism  in  earnest "  must  have  revivals ;  as  signs 
and  proofs  of  spiritual  life  they  should  never  be  lacking. 
Wesley's  hope  was  that  the  Methodist  revival  might  con- 
tinue till  the  end  of  time. 

New  churches  have  been  built  at  Troy,  Teviotdale, 
Muncey,  Lindsay,  N.  Augusta,  Kincardine,  Smithfield, 
Orangeville,  St.  Vincent,  Homing's  Mills,  Murvale, 
Avening,  Carlton  St.,  Toronto;  Hilton,  St.  Clair,  Rock- 
field,  Carleton  Place,  etc. 

261 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

The  New  Connexion  Conference,  held  at  Hespeler  in 
May,  1872,  adopted  unanimously  a  resolution  highly 
favorable  to  Union,  and  appointed  a  Committee  on 
Union. 

A  circular  was  issued  by  the  President  and  Secretary 
of  Conference,  containing  the  resolutions  adopted  by  the 
Union  Committees  as  a  Basis  of  Union,  with  instructions 
to  Superintendents  to  have  these  resolutions  considered 
and  voted  upon  in  the  May  Quarterly  Meetings,  and  the 
results  reported  to  the  Chairmen  of  Districts. 

At  the  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  U.S.,  held  in  Brooklyn,  N.Y.,  the  Revs.  Luke 
H.  Wiseman,  M.A.,  and  the  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon,  M.A., 
were  -introduced  as  Representatives  from  the  British 
Conference. 

*  Mr.  Punshon's  beautiful  and  discriminating  refer- 
ence to  the  four  Bishops  who  had  died  since  the  last 
General  Conference  was  overpowering  and  produced 
a  storm  of  blended  emotion  and  applause.  An  original 
letter  from  Bishop  Asbury,  which  he  read,  stirred  the 
foundations  of  feeling  still  more  deeply.  He  sat  down 
amid  a  tumult  of  applause.  Men  were  laughing  and  cry- 
ing in  all  directions.' 

The  Revs.  Luke  H.  Wiseman  and  T.  Bowman  Steph- 
enson, of  the  English  Conference,  preached  in  Toronto 
on  the  26th  of  May,  1872. 

The  forty-ninth  Annual  Conference  of  the  Wesleyan 
Methodist  Church  met  in  Great  St.  James  St.  Methodist 
Church,  Montreal,  on  the  6th  of  June,   1872. 

The  President,  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon,  M.A.,  LL.D., 
opened  the  proceedings. 

The  Rev.  Wm.  Scott  was  elected  Secretary. 

In  his  opening  address,  the  President  made  special 
reference  to  his  visit  to  the  English  Conference  and  to 
the  American  General  Conference. 

A  Deputation  from  the  Kirk  of  Scotland  was  received 
• — the  Revs.  Dr.  Milligan,  Dr.  Lang  and  Gavin  Lang — 

262 


HOME   AND   FOREIGN   MISSIONS 

whose  addresses  were  heartily  enjoyed  by  the  Confer- 
ence. The  Rev.  Joseph  W.  McKay,  Secretary  of  the 
Irish  Conference;  the  Rev.  L.  H.  Wiseman,  M.A.,  Sec- 
retary of  the  English  Conference,  and  the  Rev.  T.  Bow- 
man Stephenson,  were  also  introduced. 

On  nomination  of  the  President,  the  following  Com- 
mittee on  the  Theological  Institution  was  appointed:  The 
President  and  Secretary  of  Conference,  the  Co-Delegates, 
Rev.  Drs.  Ryerson,  Evans,  Wood,  Taylor,  Nelles,  Rice, 
Green,  Jeffers,  Douglas,  Revs.  R.  Jones,  James  Elliott, 
E.  B.  Harper,  M.A.,  and  C.  Lavell,  M.A. 

Into  full  connection — Wm.  M.  Bielby,  Andrew  Cun- 
ningham, David  Cattanach,  Wm.  H.  Cook,  Thomas  Car- 
dus,  J.  Anderson  Chapman,  B.A.,  Robt.  Davey,  Wm.  W. 
Edwards,  Wm.  J.  Ford,  John  Grenfell,  Thomas  W. 
Glover,  John  C.  Garrett,  Thomas  Haddon,  Ezra  A. 
Healy,  John  R.  Isaac,  Wm.  Johnson,  Benj.  B.  Keefer, 
Robt.  McCulloch,  Robt.  F.  Oliver,  James  Pearen,  B.A., 
Robt.  Phillips,  Wm.  Ryan,  Walter  Rigsby,  Francis  C. 
Reynolds,  Jabez  B.  Saunders,  John  Tozeland,  Isaac  Wil- 
kinson, David  Williams,  Richard  W.  Williams,  Wm.  J. 
Young. 

Forty-three  candidates  were  received  on  probation. 
Died — Moses  M.  Johnson,  Aug.  27th,  1871,  aged  35  years. 

Thomas  Jefifers,  Sept.  14th,  1871,  aged  62  years. 

Ezra  Adams,  Nov.  30th,  1871,  aged  84  years. 

Wm.  McGladdery,  Dec.  2nd,  1871,  aged  22  years. 

Thomas  Demorest,  Jan.  29th,  1872,  aged  74  years. 

William  Shaw,  Feb.  24th,  1872,  aged  35  years. 

David  Wright,  March  28th,  1872,  aged  80  years. 

H.  W.  Maxwell,  April  13th,  1872,  aged  31  years. 
The  Book  Steward  and  the  Editor  were  re-appointed. 

An  evening  session  was  held  for  the  reception  of  Dele- 
gates— Revs.  H.  Pickard,  D.D.,  and  D.  D.  Currie,  from 
the  Eastern  Conference,  and  Rev.  Luke  H.  Wiseman,  a 
visitor,  from  the  English  Conference. 

The  Revs.  Dr.  Green  and  John  Gemley  were  appointed 
Delegates  to  the  Congregational  Union. 

263 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

The  returns  from  Quarterly  Meetings  showed  a  con- 
siderable majority  in  favor  of  union. 

Committees  were  appointed  to  confer  with  the  Com- 
mittee of  the  Eastern  Conference  and  other  committees 
of  the  Churches  negotiating  for  union. 

A  memorial  was  presented  from  some  gentlemen  of 
Montreal,  favoring  the  founding  of  a  Theological  School 
in  that  city,  towards  which  over  $40,000  had  been  sub- 
scribed.   The  memorial  was  referred  to  a  committee. 

The  resolutions  of  which  Dr.  Douglas  had  given  notice 
became  the  order  of  the  day : 

1.  That  in  the  judgment  of  this  Conference  the  time 
has  come  when  it  is  necessary  and  expedient  to  divide 
the  Conference. 

2.  That  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  consider  the 
whole  subject  and  prepare  a  plan  to  be  laid  before  the 
next  Conference. 

3.  That  in  the  event  of  the  Eastern  British  American 
Conference  deciding  in  favor  of  Federal  Union,  that 
Conference  be  invited  to  send  a  delegation,  pro  rata,  to 
the  aforesaid  Committee  for  the  purpose  of  drafting  a 
scheme  for  the  future  government  of  our  Church  in  this 
Dominion. 

After  some  discussion  the  votes  showed :  On  first  reso- 
lution, 249  for  and  62  against;  the  second  and  third 
carried  almost  unanimously. 

The  report  of  the  Union  Committee,  expressing  hope 
for  the  union  of  all  Methodists  in  Canada,  and  also  of  a 
Federal  Union  with  the  Eastern  Conference,  was  adopted. 

Dr.  Pickard  expressed  the  pleasure  his  visit  had 
afforded  him  and  the  hope  that  future  and  more  intimate 
fellowship  was  before  them. 

The  President  and  Dr.  Evans  were  appointed  Dele- 
gates to  the  Eastern  Conference. 

The  Endowment  Fund  for  Victoria  College  had 
reached  $87,959,  and  the  hope  was  expressed  that  a  Theo- 
logical Chair  would  soon  be  established. 

264 


HOME   AND   FOREIGN   MISSIONS 

An  Address  of  congratulation  to  the  Queen  on  the 
recovery  of  the  Prince  of  Wales,  and  another  of  wel- 
come to  the  new  Governor-General,  were  ordered. 

A  Deputation  from  the  New  Connexion  Conference — 
Revs.  Dr.  Wm.  Cocker,  Joel  T.  Pitcher  and  Robt.  Wilkes, 
Esq. — brought  assurance  of  the  affectionate  regard  of 
their  Conference  and  hope  for  future  amicable  relations. 

A  resolution  in  acknowledgment  was  adopted 

The  report  of  the  Book  Room  showed  profits  of  $7,742 
— an  increase  of  $1,942. 

Report  of  the  Committee  on  a  Theological  School  in 
Montreal : 

Whereas,  the  Hon.  James  Ferrier,  Wm.  Clendinning, 
John  Torrance,  Esqs.,  and  others  of  the  Methodist 
Church  in  Montreal  propose  to  endow  a  Theological 
School  in  Montreal,  and  for  this  purpose  have  already 
secured  over  $40,000,  which  sum  is  subsequently  to  be 
augmented ;  and  whereas,  they  further  propose  to  place 
the  said  Theological  School  under  the  exclusive  control 
of  the  Conference,  with  the   following  conditions,  viz. : 

1st.  That  it  be  established  in  the  City  of  Montreal; 

2nd.  That  it  be  established  speedily.  Be  it  therefore 
resolved : 

1st.  That  this  Conference,  with  great  cordiality  accepts 
the  proposition  of  the  generous  donors. 

2nd.  That  a  Professor,  or  Professors,  as  also  the  Board 
of  Management — consisting  at  the  beginning  of  five  min- 
isters and  five  laymen — shall  be  appointed  from  time  to 
time  by  this  Conference,  and  any  additional  facilities  and 
provisions  for  further  instrviction  shall  be  provided  by 
the  Board  of  Management  at  its  discretion;  provided 
always  that  the  financial  responsibility  involved  in  the 
establishment  and  maintenance  of  the  Theological  School 
shall  be  assumed  by  the  Board  of  Management. 

3rd.  That  the  Board  of  Management  shall  present  to 
the  Conference  an  Annual  Report  of  the  condition  and 
progress  of  the  Theological  School.  The  Report  was 
adopted. 

A  committee — the  Revs,  the  President,  Dr.  Wood  and 
John  McDonald,  Esq. — was  appointed  to  visit  the  mis- 
sions in  Manitoba.  265 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

The  opening  of  a  mission  in  Japan  was  recommended. 

As  the  next  Conference  will  be  the  fiftieth,  it  was  re- 
solved that  the  Jubilee  be  suitably  celebrated,  and  also 
that  of  the  Missionary  Society. 

Several  ministers  and  others  offered  $ioo  each  towards 
a  Theological  Chair  in  Victoria  College. 

The  President  addressed  the  Conference,  reviewing 
the  years  of  his  sojourn  in  Canada,  and  requested  that  he 
should  not  be  again  nominated  for  office,  as  he  was  in  the 
position  of  an  Ambassador  recalled.  '  il  . 

The  Rev.  S.  D.  Rice,  D.D.,  was  nominated  as  President 
and  the  Rev.  E.  B.  Harper,  M.A.,  as  Co-Delegate. 

The  Rev.  George  Douglas,  LE.D.,  was  appointed  pro- 
fessor in  the  Theological  School,  Montreal.  A  Board  of 
Management  was  also  appointed . 

In  view  of  relief  from  further  financial  obligations,  the 
British  Conference  proposed  to  pay  £7,000.  The  offer 
was  accepted  by  the  Conference  and  the  amount  ordered 
to  be  invested  for  the  Contingent  Fund. 

The  Revs.  G.  R.  Sanderson  and  A.  Sutherland  gave 
an  account  of  their  visit  to  the  General  Coijference  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  U.  S. 

Conference  closed  at  the  end  of  the  tenth  day 

The  Rev.  Edward  White,  returning  from  a  visit  to 
England,  died  suddenly  in  Montreal  on  the  i6th  of  June, 
1872,  aged  fifty  years. 

The  Eastern  Conference  received  the  Address  and  Dele- 
gation from  Canada  most  heartily ;  and  to  further  Federal 
Union  appointed  a  committee — Revs.  Dr.  Pickard  and 
Stewart,  D.  D.  Currie,  H.  Pope,  Jr.,  James  Taylor,  J. 
McMurray,  S.  F.  Huestis  and  A.  W.  Nicholson. 

Edward  JackSon,  Esq.,  one  of  the  most  highly  esteemed 
citizens  of  Hamilton,  a  faithful  and  liberal  member  of 
the  Methodist  Church,  died  on  the  14th  of  July,  1872, 
aged  73  years.     In  the  ordinary  work  and  great  enter- 

266 


HOME   AND   FOREIGN   MISSIONS 

prises  of  the  church  Mr.  Jackson  for  many  years  took  a 
prominent  part,  and  his  memory  will  be  kept  green  by  a 
grateful  people. 

The  Rev-  Luke  H.  Wiseman,  M.A.,  was  elected  Presi- 
dent of  the  English  Conference.  As  Representative  of 
the  Canada  Conference  he  presented  a  vivid  picture  of 
its  operations. 

In  accordance  with  Conference  instructions,  better 
provision  is  being  made  in  Victoria  College  for  a  Theo- 
logical course.  The  President  of  Conference  opened  the 
course  with  an  admirable  address  on  "  The  Duties  and 
Studies  of  a  Christian  Minister." 

Twenty-seven  students  have  entered  these  classes. 

An  Act  of  Incorporation  was  granted  the  Missionary 
Society  of  the  Wesleyan  Methodist  Church  in  Canada  by 
the  Canadian  Parliament. 

The  venerable  Henry  Boehm  spent  a  few  weeks  in 
Canada.  He  preached  at  Ridgeway  and  Welland  with 
considerable  strength,  to  the  great  delight  of  the  people. 

In  1811  Mr.  Boehm  accompanied  Bishop  Asbury  across 
the  St.  Lawrence  and  to  Kingston.     Vol.  I.,  p.  60. 

The  Missionary  Com.mittee  met  in  Brockville  October 
6th.    An  increase  of  $10,000  was  reported. 

The  report  of  the  delegation  to  Manitoba  was  instruc- 
tive and  awakening. 

The  missionaries  in  the  Red  River  and  Saskatchewan 
Districts  were  summoned  to  meet  the  Delegates  on  the 
ist  of  August.  Some  travelled  twenty  or  twenty-five 
days.  In  addition  to  Drs.  Wood,  Punshon  and  John 
McDonald,  Esq.,  there  were  present — Revs.  George 
Young,  George  McDougall,  Michael  Fawcett,  Henry  H. 
Steinhaur,  Peter  Campbell,  John  McDougall,  E.  R. 
Young,  Matt.  Robison,  A.  Bowerman  and  George  Ed- 
wards. The  religious  state  of  all  the  missions  was  en- 
quired into- — the  schools,  new  openings,  condition  of  the 
tribes,  and  the  need  of  a  College  in  Winnipeg.     Thanks 

267 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

were  presented  to  Governor  Smith  and  ofificers  of  the 
Company  for  generous  hospitaHty  and  the  fitting  up  of  a 
commodious  wareroom  for  Dr.  Punsjion's  lecture. 

A  subscription  for  the  founding  of  a  school  or  college, 
started  by  the  Chairman,  W.  H.  Gibbs,  Esq.,  and  John 
McDonald,  soon  reached  $3,000. 

The  Rev.  Wm.  Rowe,  Primitive  Methodist,  returning 
to  England,  has  resigned  the  editorship  of  the  Christian 
Journal  and  is  succeeded  by  the  Rev.  Thomas  Guttery. 

Mrs.  Evans,  wife  of  Rev.  Dr.  Evans,  died  suddenly  at 
Mt.  Elgin  on  the  i6t'h  of  November,  1872. 

"  For  a  term  of  years  longer  than  falls  to  the  lot  of 
most  ministers'  wives  she  has  been  the  faithful  and  de- 
voted companion  of  her  now  bereaved  husband — a  true 
Christian  lady,  highly  esteemed  by  all  who  knew  her." 

On  the  27th  of  November  the  ofificial  members  of  the 
Toronto  Methodist  churches  were  called  together  in  the 
Richmond  St.  Church  to  consider  openings  for  extension. 
The  need  of  more  adequate  provision  in  various  parts  of 
the  city  was  evident ;  a  committee  was  appoin*:ed  to  in- 
vestigate and  report. 

A  pleasing  evidence  of  increasing  attention  to  Sunday 
School  W'Ork  was  seen  in  a  Sunday  School  Institute  held 
in  the  Elm  St.  Church,  Toronto,  by  the  Sunday  School 
Association  of  the   city. 

Reports  of  revivals  and  missionary  meetings  show  that 
many  are  laboring  and  praying  for  the  prosperity  of  Zion. 
The  autumn  and  early  winter  should  realize  the  joy  of 
harvest  among  the  churches. 

A  correspondent  of  the  Evangelical  Witness,  who 
touched  at  Japan,  on  his  w^ay  to  China,  writes : 

*  There  is  no  religious  toleration  yet,  but  missionaries 
and  all  friends  to  the  cause  of  Christ  are  earnestly  look- 
ing to  the  Embassy  recently  sent  to  Europe,  in  the  hope 
that  it  will  help  to  open  the  door  to  Christianity.  I  found 
at  Yokohama  three  Missionary  Boards  and  about  eight 
missionaries,  some  of  whom  have  been  at  work  for  years. 

26S 


HOME   AND   FOREIGN   MISSIONS 

A  dictionary  of  the  language  has  been  made,  a  portion  of 
the  Bible  translated,  and  religious  books  printed.  The 
Scriptures  have  not  been  circulated.  There  are  twenty- 
five  converts  in  that  city — all  there  are  in  Japan — most  of 
them  learning  English.  There  are  no  native  preachers, 
nor  public  preaching.  There  is  a  day  school,  taught  by 
Miss  Kidder,  with  twenty  scholars;  among  them  the 
Governor  of  the  city  and  his  daughter,  both  of  whom  are 
reading  the  Bible.  At  no  other  place  in  Japan  can  there 
be  any  professed  Christians,  according  to  the  decree.' 

A  very  important  and  suggestive  memorial  was  re- 
cently submitted  to  the  Prime  Minister  by  Mr.  Mori, 
Japanese  Minister  at  Washington,  advocating  liberty  of 
conscience  in  religion. 

A  correspondent  in  Zion's  Herald  writes: 

'  The  Bible  is  being  translated  into  Japanese.  The 
Gospel  by  Mark  is  completed  and  the  other  Gospels  will 
soon  follow.' 

The  Rev.  S.  R.  Brown,  who  with  Dr.  Hepburn  is  en- 
gaged in  this  work,  writes : 

'  I  am  persuaded  that  no  heathen  nation  at  the  present 
day  offers  more  encouragement  to  the  friends  of  Christ. 
It  looks. as  if  the  time  had  come,  God's  set  time,  for  the 
nation  to  be  brought  to  Christ.  .  .  .  Although  the 
Government  has  not  revoked  the  old  law  against  Chris- 
tians, nor  granted  religious  liberty  to  the  people  of  Japan, 
yet  there  does  appear  to  be  hesitation  in  proceeding  with 
persecution.' 

The  French  missionaries  in  Quebec — Bros.  Charbon- 
nel,  Parent,  Dorion,  Syvret  and  Sadlier — present  records 
of  extensive  and  persistent  labors  in  their  several  dis- 
tricts, meeting  with  some  success,  but  amid  manifold 
discouragements  and  constant  opposition. 

The  Rev.  Wm.  Halstead  writes  of  his  arrival  at  Thun- 
der Bay,  early  in  July,  1872.  The  first  night  he  had  a 
bed  on  the  floor,  afterwards  board  in  a  hotel  at  eight 
dollars  a  week.  A  town  plot,  about  a  mile  square,  had 
been  laid  out.     The  Court  House  was  obtained  tempor- 

269 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

arily  for  a  place  of  worship.  For  the  building  of  a  par- 
sonage he  found  materials  very  scarce  and  deai,  but  in 
six  weeks  moved  into  it. 

'  Soon  Mrs.  Halstead  arrived  and  housekeeping  was 
begun  in  the  first  parsonage  north  of  this  great  inland 
sea,  Lake  Superior.  Two  weeks  after  our  arrival  we  had 
a  call  from  the  President  of  Conference,  John  McDonald, 
Esq.,  and  other  friends  from  Toronto,  who  subscribed 
$500  towards  building  a  church — a  thankoffering  for 
deliverance  from  the  perils  of  shipwreck  on  their  way. 
This  generous  donation  opened  the  way  for  the  erection 
of  "  Providence  Church,"  the  most  prominent  building  in 
the  new  town,  opened  on  the  loth  of  November.  The 
congregation  is  very  regular  and  attentive.  The  church 
is  about  three  hundred  miles  from  the  nearest  on  the 
east  and  five  hundred  from  the  nearest  on  the  west — 
Grace  Church,  Winnipeg.  Contributions  so  far  about 
$1,250,  and  about  $2,000  more  required.  AVinter  began 
in  November;  the  temperature  35, below  zero  before 
Christmas,  but  milder  after.' 

The  Rev.  Charles  S.  Eby  sends  an  interesting  letter 
from  the  German  missionary,  Bro.  T.  E.  Morden,  giving 
an  account  of  his  labors  in  the  Upper  Ottawa  region — 
Green  Lake,  Algoma,  West  Wilberforce,  Renfrew  and 
Indian  River,  meeting  Frenchmen,  shantymen  and  re- 
mote settlers,  and  sending  fifty  subscribers  for  the 
Evangelist. 

'  There  are  four  churches  in  Pembroke — Roman, 
Anglican,  Presbyterian  and  Methodist — the  last  small 
and  not  well  situated.  There  is  a  good  brick  parsonage, 
and  a  new  church  is  a  necessity,  in  order  to  be  a  first- 
class  circuit.  The  successful  labors  of  the  Rev.  J-  C. 
Slater  prepared  the  way  for  his  successor,  and  Peter 
White,  Esq.,  was  on  hand  to  bid  him  welcome.  It  has 
been  my  privilege  to  live  among  kind  friends,  but  none 
more  so  than  the  people  of  this  stirring  little  town.' — 
R.  Whiting. 

'  We  are  gratified  to  hear  from  so  many  circuits  that 
revivals  of  religion  are  cheering  the  brethren  in  their 
diflferent  fields  of  toil.' — Guardian,  Feb.  25th,  1873. 

270 


HOME   AND   FOREIGN    MISSIONS 

The  Rev.  John  Semmons  reached  Rossville  in  safety. 
While  delayed  in  Winnipeg  he  gave  welcome  help  to  the 
Rev.  George  Young. 

The  Rev.  E.  R.  Young  visited  the  new  mission  at 
Beren's  River.  The  Revs.  C.  Thompson  and  W.  V.  Sex- 
smith  left  for  British  Columbia  by  Pacific  R.  R. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Jackson,  the  oldest  minister  in  the 
English  Wesleyan  Conference,  died  on  the  lOth  of  March, 
1873,  in  the  ninetieth  year  of  his  age. 

What  are  the  prospects  for  union?  some  are  asking. 
The  Basis  of  Union  prepared  by  the  Committees  was  sub- 
mitted to  the  Conferences  of  the  several  churches.  By 
the  New  Connexion  it  was  accepted,  with  slight  modifica- 
tions. The  Wesleyan  Conference  approved  of  it,  subject 
to  approval  by  the  laity  of  the  form  of  lay  delegation 
recommended.  The  Bible  Christians  were  against  a 
general  Union.  The  Annual  Conferences  of  the  Metho- 
dist Episcopal  Church,  though  expressing  general 
approval  of  Union,  gave  no  judgment  on  the  plan  pro- 
posed. 

The  majority  in  the  Primitive  Methodist  Conference 
was  against  Union,  though  latterly  the  union  feeling 
seems  to  be  extending  among  the  people. 

The  organs  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  and  Bible 
Christian  Churches  have  been  steadily  against  Union, 
under  the  pretext  that  the  larger  body  would  absorb  the 
smaller  ones.  Committees  of  the  Canada  and  Eastern 
Conferences  met  and  prepared  a  general  plan  of  union 
between  all  the  Wesleyans. 

Progress  of  the  Canada  New  Connexion  Church : 

1842 — •  20  ministers  and  preachers;  2,484  members 
18^2—  so         "  "  4.496 

1862—  QO         "  "  8,001 

1872— I T7         "  "  8,^S2 

1874—122         "  "  7,862 

Missionary   money — 18.^2,    $1,988;    1872,    $8,352.14 

271 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

'  Among  the  benefits  of  union  with  the  New  Connexion 
Church  in  England, .  not  the  least  was  the  influence  ex- 
erted by  representative  men  of  the  English  Connexion 
upon  the  ministers  of  the  Canadian  Church.  Such  men 
as  John  Addyman,  Dr.  H.  O.  Crofts,  Wm.  McClure, 
Joseph  H.  Robinson,  Dr.  W.  Cocker,  John  Medicraft, 
and  for  a  brief  period  Dr.  Wm.  Cooke  and  Dr.  Stacy, 
presented  a  high  ideal  of  the  Christian  ministry,  as  ex- 
amples of  pulpit  and  administrative  ability.  Prominent 
among  those  honored  ministers  was  Joseph  H.  Robinson, 
who  in  185 1  was  appointed  Superintendent  of  Missions 
in  Canada,  and  during  the  fifteen  years  he  held  that  office 
was  four  times  elected  President  of  Conference.  He 
was  the  chief  promoter  of  the  Evangelical  Witness  in 
1854,  and  its  Editor  up  to  1870,  when  by  the  English  Con- 
ference he  was  elected  Editor  of  the  Nezv  Connexion 
Magazine.  In  1872  he  was  elected  President  of  the  Eng- 
lish Conference.  He  returned  to  Canada  in  1874  and 
took  a  prominent  part  in  adjusting  matters  between  the 
Canadian  and  English  connexions.' — Joseph  R.   Gundy. 

The  committees  appointed  by  the  several  Conferences 
were  called  to  meet  in  Toronto  in  October,  1872 ;  again 
in  January,  1873,  but  only  the  Committees  of  the  Wes- 
leyan  Methodist  and  New  Connexion  Churches  met. 
After  much  deliberation  they  adjourned  to  the  9th  of 
April,  when  they  again  met  and  agreed  upon  a  Basis  of 
Union  to  be  submitted  to  the  Conferences. 

The  New  Connexion  Conference  was  held  at  Dunn- 
ville,  commencing  June  4th,  1873.  After  a  debate  of 
nearly  four  days  the  Conference  unanimously  adopted  a 
series  of  resolutions,  one  of  which  was : 

Moved  by  Robt.  Wilkes  and  seconded  by  Rev.  J.  Medi- 
craft : 

'  Whereas  a  committee  was  appointed  by  the  Hespeler 
Conference  to  meet  with  committees  of  other  Alethodist 
churches,  and  said  committee  conferred  with  a  committee 
of  the  Wesleyan  Methodist  Church,  resulting  in  the  report 
laid  before  this  Conference ;  Resolved,  That  the  said 
Report  be  now  adopted,  subject  to  the  sanction  of  a 
majority  of  our  November  Ouarterly  Meetings,  and  that 

272 


HOME   AND  FOREIGN   MISSIONS 

this  Conference  appoint  a  Deputation  to  proceed  to  Eng- 
land to  la}^  a  full  statement  of  the  whole  matter  before  the 
Conference,  and  that  their  report  and  the  decision  of  the 
Quarterly  Meetings  be  laid  before  our  next  Conference.' 

The  Rev.  William  Williams  and  Robert  Wilkes,  M.P., 
were  the  Deputation  sent. 

The  new  Stanstead  Wesleyan  College  will  soon  ofTer 
to  the  young  people  of  the  Province  of  Quebec  much- 
needed  educational  advantages,  especially  to  young  ladies, 
too  many  of  whom  are  attending  Convents.  The  expendi- 
ture is  estimated  at  $40,000. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Hurlburt  died  at  Little  Current  on 
the  13th  of  April,  1873 — the  result  of  a  fall  on  the  ice  and 
concussion  of  the  brain.  He  was  sixty-five  years  of  age, 
had  spent  most  of  his  life  in  mission  work  among  the 
Indians,  and  probably  no  other  white  man  was  so  familiar 
with  their  languages. 

The  Rev.  Wm.  H.  Williams  died  at  Matilda  on  the 
nth  of  May,  1873,  at  the  age  of  79  years — the  oldest 
minister  in  the  Canada  Wesleyan  Conference. 

'  The  Indians  of  the  Lake  of  Two  Mountains,  Q., 
have  been  drawing  lumber  from  La  Chute,  twenty  miles, 
for  their  new  church,  notwithstanding  the  efTorts  of 
priests  and  courts  to  dispossess  them  of  their  rights. 
With  the  blessing  of  God,  up  the  Church  shall  go.' — John 
Borland. 

A  valedictory  service  for  the  Revs.  George  Cochran 
and  Davidson  McDonald,  M.D.,  about  to  leave  for  Japan, 
was  held  in  the  Metropolitan  Church  on  the  7th  of  Mav, 

On  the  nth  of  May,  1873,  Dr.  Punshon  preached  in 
the  Metropolitan  Church — his  last  sermon  in  Toronto 
before  leaving  for  the  Old  Country. 

Dr.  Punshon  gave  a  faiewell  lecture  on  "  Florence  and 
Her  Memories,"  in  the  Metropolitan  Church.  May  13th. 

On  the  evening  of  the  19th  a  farewell  tea  was  given 
in  the  lecture-room,  and  a  testimonial,  a  beautiful  casket 
containing  a  bank  receipt  for  $4,000,  together  with  an 
18  iz-jz 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

engrossed  address,  was  presented  to  Dr.  Punshon  as  an 
expression  of  esteem  and  gratitude  from  his  Canadian 
friends. 

The  labors  of  the  Rev.  Wm.  Stephenson  in  Ottawa  and 
on  the  District  were  fruitful  of  much  good. 

"When  he  came  amongst  us  three  years  ago  Ottawa 
had  but  one  Wesleyan  minister,  now  three ;  then  hut  two 
preaching  places,  now  four;  then  but  one  church,  now 
another  is  being  built,  which  will  be  not  onlv  an  orna- 
ment to  the  city,  but  a  credit  to  Methodism.  The  circuit 
income,  then  one  thousand  dollars  a  year,  now  fifteen 
hundred,  and  an  additional  thousand  for  the  second 
preacher;  congregations,  members  and  general  funds 
similarly  increased." 

The  Brockville  District  May  meeting  was  one  of  much 
interest.  Special  attention  was  given  to  prohibition.  The 
visit  of  the  President,  bidding  farewell  on  his  way  to 
Quebec,  was  highly  appreciated.  General  progress,  num- 
erical and  financial,  was  indicated  bv  the  returns. 

The  Barrie  District  extends  to  Sault  Ste.  Marie  and 
Prince  Arthur's  Landing,  on  the  north  shore  of  Lake 
Superior,  employing  27  ministers  and  preachers  on  25 
circuits  and  missions,  from  which  the  reports  are  fairly 
encouraging,  both  in  finance  and  membership.  The  need 
of  an  increase  in  the  salaries,  especially  of  probationers, 
is  keenly  felt. 

The  review  of  the  Pembroke  District  at  the  May  meet- 
ing showed  good  progress.  Revivals  and  church  building, 
increase  of  members  and  finance,  much  labor  but  good 
returns  were  the  general  experience. 

The  Kingston  District  had  been  bereaved  of  one  of  its 
members,  the  Rev.  James  Thompson,  worn  out  with  ex- 
cessive labors,  died  April  19th,  1873,  aged  43  years. 
The  Rev.  Richard  Wilson  was  obliged  to  retire  through 
failure  of  health. 

The  Goderich  District  meeting  was  marked  by  har- 
mony, brotherly  love  and  faithfulness;  the  circuits  and 

274 


HOME   AND   FOREIGN   MISSIONS 

missions  in  a  spiritually  healthy  and  progressive  state, 
most  of  them  showing  an  increase.  Many  fine  new 
churches  have  been  built  and  parsonages  furnished. 
Towns  and  villages  show  a  growing  desire  to  become 
stations.    Ten  years  ago  there  were  none,  now  six. 

The   Stanstead  District,  as  usual,   suffers  much   from 
removals  westward,  but  reports  an  increase  of  98. 


MouM   Pleasant  Methodist   Chukcii,  Vaxlouver. 
275 


CHAPTER  XXII. 

1873. 
DIVERSE  VIEWS  OF  UNION. 

Conference,  London, — New  Connexion — Union  Prospects — Pun- 
shon  in  England — Eastern  Conference — Dean  Stanley — Eng- 
lish Conference — ^Japan — Union — Gundy — Edmonton  —  Tra- 
falgar Castle — Pembroke — Cochran — McDonald — New  Con- 
nexion— ^Convocation — Ladies'  College. 

The  Conference  met  in  London  June  4th,  1873. 
President,  Rev.  S.  D.  Rice,  D.D. ;  Secretary,  Rev.  E.  B. 
Ryckman,  M.A. 

Into  full  connection — James  Awde,  James  Allen,  Alex. 
C.  Chambers,  James  Charlton,  Edwin  A.  Chown,  B.A., 
Brabazon  B.  Dundas,  Joseph  Deacon,  John  W.  Dock- 
stader,  Abel  Edwards,  Thomas  J.  Edmison,  Wm.  H. 
Fife,  John  Ferguson,  Jos.  Galloway,  John  Hare,  B.A., 
Newton  Hill,  John  R.  Isaac,  Wm.  J.  Jolliffe,  John  A. 
Jewell,  B.A.,  Adol.  G.  Knight,  B.A.,  Benj.  Longley. 
Geo.  C.  Madden,  Wm.  Mills,  James  F.  Metcalfe,  James 
Macfarlane,  Robt.  F.  Oliver,  Thomas  R.  Reid.  Robt. 
Reynolds,  James  S.  Ross,  Wm.  Rilance,  Job  Roadhouse, 
John  H.  Ruttan,  John  G.  Scott,  Richard  Shier,  Edward 
H.  Taylor,  Wm.  T.  Turner,  Daniel  W.  Thompson,  Isaac 
Tovell,  David  Winter,  John  B.  Wass,  M.A. 

Thirty-seven  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — Edward  White,  June  i6th,  1872,  aged  50  years. 
Edwin  S.  Washington,  B.A.,  July  2nd,  1872,  aged 

26  years. 
Joseph  L.  Sanders,  Aug.  i6th,  1872,  aged  41  years. 
William  Ryerson,  Sept.  15th,  1872,  aged  75  years. 
Thomas  Hurlburt,  April  14th,  1873,  aged  65  years. 
James  Thompson,  April  19th,  1873,  aged  43  years. 
Wm.  H.  Williams,  May  nth,  1873,  aged  79  years. 
Rowley  Heyland,  May  27th,  1873,  aged  75  years. 
The  Book  Steward  and  the  Editor  were  re-elected. 

N^  276 


1.  Buruash,  N.,  LL.D. 
4.  Griffith,  Thomas,  Ph.D. 
7.  Badgele}',  E.  I.,  LL.D. 


•1.  Mrs.  N.  Burwash 
5.  Williams,  T.  G.,  D.D. 
S.  Wilkes,  Robt.,M.P. 


8.  Stone,  S.  G.,  D.D. 
fi.  German,  J.  F.,  D.D. 

9.  Campbell,  Kev.  Amos 


DIVERSE  VIEWS   OF   UNION 

The  Committee  on  the  Jubilee  of  the  Church  and  Mis- 
sionary Society  recommended  that  commemorative  ser- 
vices be  held  during  September  and  October  next  and  that 
offerings  be  received  for  the  Superannuation  Fund,  for 
Theological  Education,  and  for  Missionary  premises. 
The  matter  was  remitted  to  a  mixed  committee. 

The  Rev.  E.  B.  Ryckman,  M.A.,  was  appointed  Prin- 
cipal of  the  Collegiate  Institution,  Dundas. 

A  resolution  expressing  grateful  appreciation  of  Dr. 
Punshon's  manifold  labors  in  Canada  was  heartily  passed. 
Dr.  Punshon  replied  with  thanks  to  the  Conference  and 
the  people  of  Canada  for  the  kindness  Ije  had  received 
during  his  sojourn  among  them.  He  also  stated  that  the 
generous  gift  which  had  been  presented  to  him  should, 
at  his  death,  be  invested  for  the  Superannuation  Fund. 

Resolutions  of  the  Joint  Committee  relating  to  Federal 
Union  and  Division  of  Conference  were  read,  in  the  main 
adopted  and  sent  to  a  committee.  All  the  changes  pro- 
posed were  submitted  to  the  Quarterly  Meetings. 

A  telegram  from  the  New  Connexion  Conference  stat- 
ing that  the  Basis  of  Union  was  adopted  was  received 
with  cheers.  This  was  followed  by  an  official  declara- 
tion of  acceptance,  subject  to  the  Quarterly  Meetings  and 
the  English  Conference. 

The  Rev.  Joseph  H.  Robinson,  President  of  the  New 
Connexion  Conference,  and  the  Rev.  Henry  Medicraft 
were  introduced. 

The  Revs.  Dr.  Nelles  and  Edward  H.  Dewart  were 
appointed  Delegates  to  the  English  Conference. 

The  President  and  Dr.  Douglas  were  appointed  Repre- 
sentatives to  the  Eastern  Conference. 

A  letter  of  brotherly  greeting  was  received  from  the 
Primitive  Methodist  Conference  and  replied  to. 

The  proposal  to  divide  into  three  Annual  Conferences 
prevailed. 

277 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

I.  The  Wesleyan  Methodist  Conferences  in  British 
America  shall  be  so  altered  in  the  form  of  their  general 
government  as  to  be  composed  of  one  General  Confer- 
ence and  several  annual  Conferences. 

The  Annual  Conferences- — ■ 

i8.  The  work  in  the  Provinces  of  Ontario  and  Quebec 
shall  be  divided  into  three  Annual  Conferences,  to  be 
known  as  the  Toronto,  London,  and  Montreal  Confer- 
ences. 

19.  The  Toronto  Conference  shall  embrace  the  To- 
ronto, Bradford,  Barrie,  Collingwood,  Owen  Sound, 
Whitby,  Cobourg,  Peterborough,  and  Belleville  Districts. 

20.  The  London  Conference  shall  embrace  the  Hamil- 
ton, Niagara,  Brantford,  London,  St.  Thomas,  Chatham, 
Sarnia,  Guelph,  and  Goderich  Districts. 

21.  The  Montreal  Conference  shall  embrace  the  King- 
ston, Brockville,  Perth,  Pembroke,  Ottawa,  Montreal, 
Quebec,  and  Stanstead  Districts. 

The  Rev.  George  Young  presented  the  claims  of  Mani- 
toba and  called  for  volunteers. 

The  Stationing  Committee  required  27  young  men. 

The  Superannuation  Fund  amounted  to  $29,343,  of 
which  $5,000  came  from  John  McDonald,  Esq. 

The  late  Edward  Jackson,  Esq.,  of  Hamilton,  left 
$10,000  towards  a  Theological  Department.  Mrs.  Jack- 
son sent  an  equal  amount.  Prof.  N.  Burwash,  B.D.,  was 
appointed  to  the  Theological  Chair. 

The  following  were  appointed  clerical  members  of  the 
Stanstead  College  Board :  Revs,  Dr.  Rice,  Dr.  Douglas, 
Le  Roy  Hooker,  Benj.  Longley,  B.A.,  Joseph  Hagar, 
M.A.,  and  George  Washington,  M.A. 

The  Committee  on  Insurance  recommended  the  forma- 
tion of  a  society  of  ministers,  each  member  to  pay  one 
dollar  on  entrance  and  one  dollar  on  the  death  of  a  mem- 
ber, for  the  benefit  of  the  widow.     Conference  approved. 

Conference   closed    on   the    twelfth   day. 

While  the  general  forecast  for  Union  was  regarded  as 
278 


DIVERSE  VIEWS   OF   UNION 

likely  to  be  realized,  many  of  the  details  were  necessarily 
but  tentative,  subject  to  such  modification  as  the  circum- 
stances and  judgment  of  the  uniting  Churches  may  event- 
ually determine.  To  the  Reports  of  the  committees 
charged  with  the  consideration  of  these  great  questions 
the  most  careful  consideration  was  given.  In  the  pro- 
cess of  development  it  was  hoped  that  such  a  complete 
ecclesiastical  system  would  be  evolved  as  shall  ensure 
general  satisfaction. 

The  discussion  of  Union  in  the  New  Connexion  Con- 
ference, as  reported  in  the  Evangelical  Witness,  was  con- 
ducted with  moderation  and  ability.  An  able  speech  by 
Robt.  Wilkes,  Esq.,  M.P.,  made  a  profound  impression. 
He  declared  the  proposed  Basis  betokened  the  most  lib- 
eral Methodist  Constitution  ever  submitted  on  either  side 
of  the  Atlantic. 

The  Rev.  George  Richardson  said : 

'  The  Canadian  Conference  is  rather  a  partner  on  equal 
terms  than  the  child  of  the  English  New  Connexion. 
When  the  English  Connexion  had  but  two  or  three 
ministers,  a  hundred  members,  and  no  chapels,  the  Can- 
ada Church  had  twenty  ministers,  2,500  members  and 
several  chapels.  The  opponents  of  Union  laid  great  stress 
on  the  rights  of  the  minority;  but  what  about  the  rights 
of  the  majority?' 

The  Rev.  J.  H.  Robinson,  who,  as  Representative  of 
the  English  Conference,  had  in  his  first  address  opposed 
the  Union,  greatly  modified  his  views. 

Dr.  Punshon's  welcome  home  was  what  might  have 
been  expected.    A  correspondent  writes : 

'  This  celebrated  divine,  who  arrived  in  England  ,f rem 
Canada  a  few  days  ago,  preached  his  first  sermon  in  the 
Wesleyan  Chapel,  City  Road,  to  a  congregation  number- 
ing nearly  4,000.  Long  before  the  doors  were  opened 
the  space  in  front  of  the  edifice  and  the  street  were 
crowded  with  people ;  at  two  o'clock,  when  the  doors 
were  opened,   the  anxious  concourse,  all  of  whom  had 

279 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

provided  themselves  with  tickets,  rushed  in ;  every  seat 
and  nook  were  filled — and  this  on  a  week-day.  The  col- 
lection was  for  the  extinction  of  the  debt  on  the  West- 
minster Wesleyan  Chapel.  Two  thousand  and  twenty-five 
pounds  were  contributed.' 

The  Eastern  Conference  opened  on  the  26th  of  June, 
1873,  in  Fredericton,  the  beautiful  capital  of  New 
Brunswick.  The  new  President,  Rev.  Dr.  Stewart,  was 
introduced  by  his  predecessor,  and  also  the  Co-Delegate, 
Rev.  Elias  Brettle.  Thirteen  candidates  for  the  ministry 
appeared,  and  four  were  reported  from  Newfoundland. 
The  Confederation  arrangements,  with  one  slight  change, 
were  accepted  by  the  Conference. 

'  The  examinations  in  the  Wesleyan  Female  College, 
the  proficiency  in  music  and  art  studies  displayed  by  the 
young  ladies,  were  in  the  highest  degree  creditable,  both 
to  them  and  their  instructors.  The  essays  by  the  gradu- 
ating class  of  eleven  showed  literary  talent  and  careful 
instruction  in  composition.  Dr.  Rice  and  his  associates 
deserve  the  thanks  of  parents  for  the  admirable  advan- 
tages placed  within  reach  of  their  daughters.' 

Dean  Stanley,  in  a  recent  lecture  on  the  "  Life  and 
Character  of  John  Wesley,"  said : 

'  John  Wesley  shared  the  glory  of  the  founders  of 
many  great  religious  movements.  Robert  Brown,  foun- 
der of  the  Independents ;  John  Spilsburg,  founder  of  the 
Baptists ;  George  Fox,  founder  of  the  Friends,  are  com- 
paratively insignificant  personages  by  the  side  of  some 
of  their  disciples.  But  John  Wesley  was  incomparably 
greater  than  any  who  have  since  borne  his  name.  He 
was  one  of  the  redeeming  characters,  historically  and 
religiously,  of  the  eighteenth  century,  and  no  one,  before 
the  Reformation  or  since,  has  played  a  greater  part  in 
awakening  the  religious  fervor  of  the  country.' 

The  Centennial  statistics  of  Methodism  in  the  United 
States  show  9,699  ministers,  14,382  local  preachers, 
11,300  churches,  and  1,421,322  members. 

280 


DIVERSE  VIEWS   OF   UNION 

The  Evangelical  Witness  says : 

'  Our  exchanges  for  the  past  few  weeks  have  teemed 
with  congratulations  on  the  action  taken  by  our  Con- 
ference, and  also  by  the  Wesleyan  Conference.  The 
New  Connexion  Conference  in  England  has  dissented 
from  the  decision  of  the  Canadian  Conference,  but  we 
trust  the  cautious  arrangements  instituted  will  insure 
honorable  unanimity  and  satisfaction.' 

The  Rev.  George  T.  Perks,  M.A.,  was  elected  Presi- 
dent of  the  English  Wesleyan  Conference. 

The  Rev.  Gervase  Smith  was  elected  Secretary. 

The  Rev.  Drs.  Stewart  and  Pickard,  Delegates  from 
the  Conference  of  Eastern  British  America,  were  intro- 
duced ;  also  Rev.  Dr.  Nelles  and  Rev.  E.  H.  Dewart,  Dele- 
gates from  the  Canada  Wesleyan  Conference. 

The  Address  from  the  Canada  Conference  was  re- 
ferred to  a  special  Committee. 

The  Rev.  E.  H.  Dewart  remembered  the  Guardian  and 
forwarded  a  series  of  racy  editorials. 

'  All  matters  affecting  the  relationship  of  the  Canada 
Wesleyan  Conference  to  the  English  Conference  were 
satisfactorily  arranged.  The  committee  received  the 
communications  and  suggestions  of  the  Canadian  Dele- 
gates with  great  courtesy  and  in  a  most  liberal  spirit.  A 
sub-committee  was  appointed  to  prepare  resolutions  for 
adoption  by  the  Conference.  These  were  presented  by 
Rev.  Dr.  Wiseman,  who  explained  the  circumstances  that 
had  occasioned  the  changes.' 

The  ex-President  presented  the  Report  of  the  Commit- 
tee and  the  Resolutions. 

The  preamble  stated  that,  owing  to  the  proposed  Union 
with  the  New  Connexion  Church,  it  was  necessary  for 
some  modification  of  their  relations  to  the  Canada  Con- 
ference ;  therefore  resolved : 

I.  That  this  Conference  rescifTtls  the  Articles  of  Union 
which  now  subsist  between  the  Connexion  in  Great  Bri- 
tain and  the  Conferences  of  Canada  and  Eastern  British 

281 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

America  respectively,  and  gives  to  those  Conferences  the 
right  to  conclude  such  arrangements  for  their  own  con- 
solidation into  one  body  and  for  their  entering  into  terms 
of  union  with  other  Methodist  bodies  as  shall  be  in 
accordance  with  the  doctrines  of  Methodism  .  .  . 
and  with  a  system  of  discipline  which,  while  adapted  to 
the  altered  circumstances  of  Canadian  Methodism,  shall 
preserve  the  fundamental  principles  of  a  connexional 
form  of  government. 

2.  The  second  resolution  conferred  on  the  Confer- 
ences thus  separated  all  rights  and  interests  the  British 
Conference  might  now  possess  by  virtue  of  any  deeds  or 
instruments  relating  to  trust  property. 

3.  The  third  resolution  had  reference  to  the  placing 
of  the  official  seal  of  the  Conference  to  any  application 
the  Conference  might  make  to  the  Parliament  of  Can- 
ada or  Provincial  Legislatures  for  the  vesting  of  any 
trust  property,  etc. 

4.  The  fourth  was  an  expression  of  regard  and  prayer 
for  the  Conferences. 

After  brief  addresses  by  Revs.  G.  Smith,  W.  Arthur, 
Dr.  Rigg  and  Dr.  Scott,  the  resolutions  were  unanimously 
adopted. 

Dr.  Punshon  spoke  of  the  love  of  Canada  for  Metho- 
dism and  for  the  mother  land ;  and  the  reverent  regard  in 
which  this  Conference  was  held.  The  changes  were  for 
the  enlargement  and  prosperity  of  the  work  of  God  in 
that  great  country. 

The  Rev.  A.  E.  Russ  writes  from  New  Westminster, 
Aug.  5th,  1873,  of  his  safe  return  after  a  most  delightful 
visit  to  Canada. 

The  Rev.  James  Turner  also  writes  at  the  same  time 
of  his  arrival,  without  any  mishap,  from  dear  old  Canada 
to  that  w^estern  city. 

The  Rev.  Davidson  McDonald,  M.D.,  has  written  sev- 
eral letters,  telling  of  the  journey  of  the  missionaries 
across  the  continent  and  onward  to  Japan,  where  they  are 
now,  in  good  health  and  spirits,  vigorously  undertaking 
the  study  of  the  language. 

282 


DIVERSE  VIEWS   OF  UNION 

*  So  far  all  the  events  connected  with  the  inception 
of  this  mission  have  been  favorable,  and  now,  on  the 
bluffs  of  Yokohama,  in  our  "  own  hired  house,"  we  are 
preparing  to  preach  the  Word  in  another  tongue.' 

The  Missionary  Committee  met  this  year  in  Peter- 
borough. Anniversary  sermons  were  preached  on  the 
I2th  of  October,  1873,  by  the  Revs.  Dr.  Rice  and  E.  B. 
Harper,  M.A.  The  annual  meeting  was  held  on  Tuesday 
evening,  the  Hon.  Senator  Ferrier  in  the  chair.  Dr. 
Wood  reported  an  increase  of  23  missions  and  29  mis- 
sionaries. The  income  for  the  year  was  $108,369;  in- 
crease, $14,353.  Addresses  were  delivered  by  Revs.  John 
Gemley,  C.  S.  Eby,  J.  B.  Armstrong,  John  McDonald, 
Esq.,  and  others. 

Before  the  action  of  the  Canada  New  Connexion  Con- 
ference was  known  in  England  the  English  Conference 
passed  resolutions  against  the  Union,  and  these  resolu- 
tions, with  other  documents,  were  circulated  in  Canada. 
The  Executive  Committee  of  the  Canada  Conference  met 
and  unanimously,  save  by  one  vote,  adopted  an  Address 
to  their  people,  in  opposition  to  the  course  of  the  English 
Conference  and  the  circulation  of  such  documents,  with- 
out the  consent  of  the  constituted  courts,  as  "  the  decision 
of  the  whole  matter  was  left  by  the  Conference  to  the 
unbiased  judgment  of  the  November  Quarterly  Boards," 
and  that  such  interference  is  in  violation  of  the  Articles 
of  Union. 

Considerable  correspondence  for  and  against  Union 
appeared  in  the  papers,  largely  a  reiteration  of  what  had 
been  said  before. 

In  the  midst  of  these  negotiations  came  the  sudden 
death  of  one  of  the  chief  participants,  the  Rev.  Samuel 
B.  Gundy,  President  of  the  New  Connexion  Conference, 
from  typhoid  fever,  at  the  age  of  41  years.  He  was  a 
most    amiable    and    courteous    Christian    gentleman,    a 

283 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

devoted  and  effective  minister,  and  will  be  painfully 
missed  by  his  own  and  other  Churches. 

A  strong  plea  is  being  made  for  the  erection  of  a 
Methodist  church  in  Ottawa  worthy  of  the  capital,  W.  E. 
Sanford,  Esq.,  of  Hamilton,  being  one  of  the  prime 
movers. 

Among  the  speakers  at  the  Missionary  Breakfast  in 
Montreal  were  Revs.  Egerton  R.  Young,  of  Norway 
House;  Ebenezer  E.  Jenkins,  from  India;  Mr.  Hall, 
from  China ;  Thomas  Crosby,  of  British  Columbia,  and 
Mr.  Parent,  French  missionary,  Quebec. 

The  Rev.  Peter  Campbell,  Victoria,  writes  very  thank- 
fully of  Dr.  Taylor's  visit  to  Edmonton — his  presence  in 
the  councils  of  the  Cree,  Stoney  and  Blackfeet  Indians, 
and  the  intense  admiration  expressed  by  Scotchmen  for 
the  Doctor's  sermons  and  lectures. 

The  Provincial  Wcslcyan's  forecast  of  Union: 

'  There  can  be  no  doubt  that  an  almost  unanimous  vote 
in  favor  of  Union  will  be  given  by  the  Quarterly  Meet- 
ings. Methodism  will  enter  shortly  upon  a  great  organi- 
zation, and  a  yet  more  hopeful  destiny  within  this 
Dominion.' 

Last  year  the  New  Year's  muster  of  the  Montreal  Sun- 
day Schools  and  their  missionary  contributions  were  so 
large  that  Dr.  Douglas  remarked :  "  In  all  my  goings  in 
and  out  among  you  for  forty-two  years  I  have  never 
seen  the  equal  of  this.  It  is  the  grandest  success  of  all." 
Some  thought  the  climax  was  reached.  But  this  year 
about  2,000  scholars  brought  in  $3,154,  exceeding  the 
amount  of  last  year  by  over  $600.  At  the  S.  S.  tea- 
meeting  the  next  evening  the  Secretary,  Mr.  J.  J.  Mc- 
Laren, reported  a  total  of  300  teachers  and  2,500  scholars. 

The  votes  of  the  Quarterly  Meetings  on  Union  with  the 
Conference  of  Eastern  British  America  and  with  the 
New  Connexion  Church,  received  up  to  the  close  of 
1873,  were  very  decidedly  in  favor  of  both  projects. 

284 


DIVERSE  VIEWS   OF   UNION 

Class-meetings — 

'  A  class-meeting  revival  is  a  prime  necessity,  and 
Toronto  is  consistently  honoring  its  position  in  taking 
the  van  in  this  movement.  The  class-meeting — a  Divine 
thing  with  a  human  name — providentially  interwoven 
with  the  history  of  Methodism  from  its  commencement, 
is  as  much  needed  in  this  century  as  in  the  last.  As  a 
spiritual  barometer  it  is  needed,  Bunyan's  Talkative 
colored  when  Faithful  came  "  to  ex?perience,  to  conscience 
and  to  God."  As  a  soul  stiumlant  it  is  needed — "  Teach- 
ing and  admonishing  one  another  in  psalms  and  hymns 
and  spiritual  songs."  As  an  instrument  of  aggression  it 
is  needed — "  Come  thou  with  us  and  we  will  do  thee 
good."  As  a  conservator  of  piety  it  is  needed — "  If  we 
walk  in  the  light  as  He  is  in  the  light  we  have  fellowship 
one  with  another."  The  late  John  Angel  James  once  said 
to  a  Methodist :  "  Class-meetings  are  your  strength,  the 
want  of  them  our  weakness." — H.  F.  Bland. 

At  a  recent  meeting  of  the  Canadian  N.  C.  Executive 
Committee  a  series  of  resolutions  was  adopted  in  reply 
to  certain  resolutions  adopted  by  the  English  Missionary 
Committee,  expressing  regret  that  that  Committee  should 
have  acted  on  incomplete  information  and  without  any 
official  communication  from  the  Canada  Conference,  and 
the  hope  that  when  all  the  facts  are  known  there  will  be 
liberal  concession  to  Canadian  views. 

The  death  of  the  Rev.  George  Scott,  D.D.,  is 
announced  in  the  English  papers.  Among  his  many  ser- 
vices his  fruitful  mission  to  Sweden  and  his  Presidency 
in  the  Canada  and  Eastern  Conferences  will  be  grate- 
fully remembered. 

A  New  Ladies'  College. — The  division  of  Conference 
opens  the  way  for  an  Institution  to  meet  the  requirements 
of  young  ladies  within  the  bounds  of  the  Toronto  Con- 
ference. It  becoming  known  that  "  Trafalgar  Castle  " 
and  grounds,  owned  by  Sherifif  Reynolds,  Whitby,  might 
be  offered  for  sale,  investigations  were  made  by  the 
Rev.  J.  E.  Sanderson,  which  led  to  the  formation  of  a 

285 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Joint  Stock  Company  and  the  purchase  of  the  property, 
after  consultation  with  Conference  authorities  and  many 
others  hkely  to  be  interested.  The  following  were  ap- 
pointed Provisional  Directors : 

Revs.  Dr.  Wood,  Dr.  Nelles,  J.  E.  Sanderson,  M.A., 
Wm.  Scott,  David  C.  McDowell,  John  Breden,  Messrs. 
James  Holden,  Charles  Draper,  Judge  Burnham,  Dr. 
Gunn,  J.  B.  Powell,  J.  H.  Greenwood,  Joshua  Richard- 
son, Anson  Ross,  Hon.  T.  N.  Gibbs,  Major  Grierson, 
James  Luke,  Thomas  McClung,  A.  F.  Walbridge,  Hon. 
R.  Read,  Richard  Hatch,  H.  B.  Taylor,  J.  B.  Bickle  and 
Ezra  Hoi  ton. 

A  meeting  of  the  Directors  was  held  Feb.  17th,  1874, 
at  which  James  Holden,  Esq.,  was  appointed  Chairmaii 
H.  B.  Taylor  Secretary,  and  a  sub-committee  to  obtain 
a  Charter  and  secure  stock. 

Negotiations  with  the  Sheriff  resulted  in  the  purchase 
of  the  Castle  and  grounds — eight  acres — for  $30,000  and 
$5,000  in  stock.  The  architect  of  this  splendid  building 
was  Mr.  Sheard  of  Toronto. 

'  Its  dimensions — front  80  feet,  depth  105  feet,  with 
wing  55x33 ;  basement  10  feet,  first  floor  16,  second  floor 
15,  third  floor  12.  There  are  fifteen  towers,  the  main 
one  27x28  feet  and  65  feet  high.  There  are  about 
seventy  different  apartments,  the  principal  ones  provided 
with  fireplaces,  grates,  marble  mantels,  hot,  cold  and  foul 
air  flues,  with  valves  and  registers.  The  entrance  is 
16x12,  vestibule  21x21,  centre  hall  44x18,  staircase  hall 
30x20,  with  large  richly-traceried  glass  doors,  and  a 
mammoth  group  of  stained-glass  windows  at  the  land- 
ing— the  whole  forming  a  grand  hall  105  feet  long,  with 
arches,  niches,  marble  walls  and  groined  ceiling.  On 
entering,  the  first  door  to  the  left  opens  to  the  Library, 
20x25 ;  immediately  opposite  is  the  Parlor,  same  size ; 
next,  the  Drawing-room,  25x50;  Dining-room  opposite, 
same  size ;  Sitting-room,  Breakfast-room,  etc.  Wide  oak 
stairways,  with  heavy  bannisters,  lead  to  the  upper  flats, 
which  are  conveniently  divided  and  beautifully  finished. 
There  is  also  a  brick  carriage-house,  50x30,  with  base- 

286 


i 


DIVERSE  VIEWS   OF   UNION 

ment,  extensive  lawn,  garden  and  orchard^ — all  now 
bought  for  about  one-half  the  original  expenditure.' 

Stanstead — During  the  first  year  the  Stanstead  Col- 
lege had  about  one  hundred  students,  of  whom  twenty- 
five  were  boarders. 

Of  Pickering  circuit  the  Rev.  Geo.  H.  Cornish  reports: 

'  Three  successful  years ;  parsonage  and  five  acres  of 
land  nearly  paid  for ;  debts  on  Claremont  and  Brougham 
churches  paid ;  Mt.  Zion  Church  removed,  renovated  and 
expenditure  met;  new  church  built  at  Glen  Major,  nearly 
paid  for,  and  twenty  new  members  added;  fifteen  at 
Greenwood — a  net  increase  of  54.' 

The  Rev.  R.  Whiting,  Chairman  of  the  far-reaching 
Pembroke  District,  started  on  a  northern  tour  Feb.  loth. 
1874,  the  Rev.  R.  F.  Oliver,  with  swift  horse,  cutter  and 
robes,  as  his  travelling  companion: 

'  After  thirty-five  miles  on  the  Government  Road,  we 
took  tea  with  the  Armstrongs  and  McConnells,  near 
Point  Alexander — which  Revs.  W.  Scales,  J.  B. 
Keough,  A.  Doxee.  W.  Sanderson,  and  B.  Rose  had 
made  their  central  point — held  service,  then  three  miles 
to  Bro.  Evans'  for  the  night.  The  next  day  we  reached 
a  lumber  camp  in  time  for  dinner,  and  had  a  short, 
earnest  talk  to  Protestants  and  Catholics,  with  whom 
there  should  be  a  missionary.  Ten  miles  over  the  frozen 
Ottawa,  and  we  were  at  Mr.  Mclntyre's  for  an  evening 
appointment.  Here  the  river  is  about  half-a-mile  wide 
and  over  400  feet  deep.  Next  morning — 22  below  zero — 
we  started  for  Mattawa,  45  miles,  passed  a  fine  mill, 
owned  by  Peter  White,  and  a  steamer  waiting  for  sum- 
mer; took  dinner  at  a  hotel  kept  by  a  Catholic,  who 
"  welcomed  Protestant  missionaries  as  he  did  Catholic 
priests,  to  the  best  in  his  house — '  without  money  and 
without  price.'  "  A  large  Bible  and  good  books  were  on 
the  table.  Scores  of  teams  were  on  their  way  with 
oats,  pork,  flour,  etc.  By  sunset,  at  Mattawa,  we  were 
taken  in  from  the  storm  by  Mr.  Bangs.  In  the  village 
there  are  eighteen  dwellings,  four  stores,  shoe  and  saddler 
shops,  axe  factory,  two  taverns  and  a  Roman  Catholic 
Church.  On  Sunday  T  preached  twice  in  a  house  fitted 
up  by  Mr.  Bangs ;  Mr.   Oliver  in  other  places  twenty 

287 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

miles  further  west.  The  first  witness  in  our  class-meet- 
ing had  been  a  Romanist.  We  spent  five  days  visiting 
the  famiHes,  and  called  on  many  as  we  returned.  The 
extent  of  the  lumber  trafiic  is  indicated  by  the  232 
ladened  steamers  we  met.' 

The  Quarterly  Meetings  of  the  Eastern  Conference 
voted  strongly  in  favor  of  Union. 

The  Hon.  Edward  Blake  gave  his  opinion  that  the 
Canadian  Connexion,  according  to  the  Articles  of  Union 
and  the  Discipline,  is  invested  with  power  to  control  its 
own  affairs,  independently  of  the  English  Conference. 

The  Rev.  G.  Cochran  writes  from  Yokohama,  Japan, 
April  7th,  1874,  eleven  months  after  leaving  Toronto: 

'  Our  work  is  getting  into  shape.  Dr.  McDonald  has 
just  gone  to  Shidzuoka,  where  we  hope  to  make  a  per- 
manent mission.  On  the  29th  of  March  we  baptized  our 
first  converts — one  of  them  my  teacher.  He  came  to  me 
in  the  beginning  of  the  year,  accepted  the  truth  heartily, 
and  I  believe  has  entered  into  the  liberty  of  the  children 
of  God.  The  other  is  a  young  man,  who  has  been  with 
me  about  five  months,  and  I  believe  he  is  truly  converted. 
We  conducted  the  baptismal  service  in  the  Japanese 
language — the  first  Methodist  baptism  in  Japan.  Dr. 
McKay  and  colleague,  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Mis- 
sion, present  by  invitation,  assisted  in  the  Communion. 
I  expect  to  remove  to  Yeddo  when  my  year  is  up.  A 
Japanese  gentleman  there,  who  has  a  large  school,  in- 
vited me  to  preach  in  his  house,  and  every  Sabbath 
morning  I  find  thirty  to  forty  young  men.  able  to  under- 
stand English  spoken  slowly — a  great  opening.' 

Dr.  McDonald  writes  from  Yeddo,  March  25th,  1874: 
'  Next  Monday  Mrs.  McDonald  and  I  expect  to  start 
for  Shidzuoka,  the  Capital  of  the  Province  of  Surunya, 
a  city  of  about  60,000,  about  a  hundred  miles  from  Yoko- 
hama. I  go  as  a  missionary,  and  by  invitation,  tp  take 
charge  of  a  school,  on  reasonable  salary.  There  is  also 
the  prospect  of  hospital  service.  There  are  other  circum- 
stances of  which  you  will  be  informed  later.' 

The  Rev.  E.   R.   Young  writes   from  Beren's  River, 
288 


DIVERSE  VIEWS   OF   UNION 

April  22nd,  1874,  telling  of  his  safe  arrival  after  nearly 
a  month  of  travel,  from  Ontario. 

'  How  four  dogs  can  draw  sticks  of  timber  thirty  to 
forty  feet  long  is  a  mystery  to  me ;  but  my  gallant  team 
— two  St.  Bernards  and  two  Newfoundlanders — seem  to 
think  it  sport.  We  have  thirty-two  dogs  at  work.  You 
would  hardly  know  the  missionary,  dressed  in  a  leather 
shirt,  blue  leggings,  moccasins  and  sash.  My  home  is  in 
a  little  mud-and-log  cabin,  with  an  Indian  family.  My 
bed  is  a  buffalo  robe  and  blanket ;  my  food,  whitefish 
and  flat  cakes.  I  am  glad  I  brought  the  two  dogs  given 
me  by  kind  friends.  It  cost  a  good  deal  to  get  them 
through,  but  they  have  been  worth  more  already  in  the 
work  they  have  done.  We  call  the  new  mission  after  an 
honored  Montreal  name — Eerrier.  It  breaks  the  long 
distance  of  four  hundred  miles  between  Winnipeg  and 
Norway  House,*  and  meets  the  wants  of  many  whose 
Macedonian  cries  have  been  calling  for  years.  It  is  the 
gateway  to  a  glorious  mission  in  the  rear,  three  hundred 
miles  wide  by  five  hundred  lone.  About  fifteen  were  at 
our  first  sacramental  service.  These  Indians,  the  Saul- 
teaux,  seem  to  be  a  band  of  the  great  Ojibway  nation. 
Bro.  Semmens  has  reached  Norway  House,  and  will 
soon  go  on  to  Nelson  River.  Br.  Ruttan  is  struggling 
with  financial  burdens,  and  must  have  help.' 

May  2nd,  1874.  the  Rev.  John  McDougall  writes : 
'At  Bow  River  we  have  succeeded  very  well,  consid-^ 
ering  the  extreme  lateness  of  our  arrival  last  fall.  I 
have  built  a  temporary  meeting-house,  larger  than  the 
one  in  Victoria,  and  have  got  out  timber  for  a  school- 
house  and  parsonage.  Lumber  is  very  dear,  flour  nearly 
double  what  it  was  a  few  months  ago  and  other  things 
in  proportion.  The  magnificent  Bow  River  Valley,  the 
garden  of  the  North-West,  is  wholly  occupied  by  the 
natives,  among  whom  are  some  of  the  most  numerous 
and  warlike  of  the  savage  tribes  that  roam  over  the 
vSaskatchewan  plains.' 

The  New  Connexion  Conference  opened  in  Milton  on 

the  25th  of  May,  1874.     In  consequence  of  the  death  of 

the  President,  the  Rev.  S.  B.  Gundy,  the  ex-President, 

Rev.  Wm.  Williams,  took  the  chair.    About  one  hundred 

19  289 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

and  twenty  ministers  and  laymen,  duly  accredited,  were 
present.  Great  interest  was  felt  in  the  election  of  the 
President,  as  an  index  of  Union  feeling.  The  Rev.  J. 
Medicraft,  General  Superintendent,  was  the  nominee  of 
the  Anti-unionists,  and  the  Rev.  David  Savage  of  the 
Unionists.  Mr.  Savage  received  ninety-four  votes  and 
Mr.  Medicraft  twenty. 

The  Special  Committee  reported : 

"  Whereas  a  majority  of  the  Quarterly  Aleetings  have 
adopted  the  basis  of  the  proposed  Union,  submitted  by 
our  last  Conference; 

"  Resolved — That  this  Conference  hereby  ratifies  and 
adopts  the  Basis  of  Union,  provided  that  an  interpreta- 
tion of  the  twenty-third  clause  in  the  Basis  of  Union  be 
approved  by  the  Wesleyan  Conference,  viz.,  Any  act  of 
the  General  Conference,  affecting  the  rights  and  privi- 
leges of  the  Annual  Conferences,  shall  become  law  only 
when  it  secures  a  majority  of  two-thirds  of  the  members 
of  the  General  Conference  who  may  be  present  and 
vote  thereon ;  provided  also  that  such  act  be  not  disap- 
proved by  a  majority  of  the  next  ensuing  Annual  Con- 
ferences ;  also  that  a  respectful  statement,  by  deputation 
or  otherwise,  of  the  whole  case  be  submitted  to  the  Eng- 
lish Conference,  soliciting  their  approval  of  our  action ; 
also  that  a  deputation  be  appointed  to  the  next  Wesleyan 
Conference,  soliciting  their  approval  of  our  interpreta- 
tion of  the  twenty-third  clause." 

The  motion  was  adopted,  with  only  one  dissentient. 
The  Rev.  Wm.  Williams  and  Mr.  Robert  Wilkes,  M.P., 
were  appointed  Delegates  to  the  English  Conference. 

At  the  Convocation  of  Victoria  University  the  Bacca- 
laureate sermon  was  preached  by  the  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson. 
A  lecture  was  given  by  the  Rev.  Dr.  Taylor  on  "  The 
Great  Tone  Land."  Dr.  Haamel  has  proved  a  valuable 
addition  to  the  faculty.  The  Theological  Department  is 
in  successful  operation ;  and  over  $30,000  has  been  added 
to  the  Endowment  Fund. 


290 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

1874. 

UNION  ARRANGEMENTS  ACCEPTED. 

Conference,  Hamilton — Annual  Conferences — Campbell — Crosby 
— Basis  Adopted — Carman — Deaths — Whitby — Book  Concern 
— Edmonton — Warner — Goldwin  Smith — Wiseman. 

The  Wesleyan  Methodist  Conference  was  opened  in 
the  Centenary  Church,  Hamilton,  June  3rd,  1874. 

President — Rev.  Samuel  D.  Rice,  D.D. ;  Secretary, 
Rev.  Edward  B.  Ryckman,  AI.A. 

The  names  of  laymen  elected  to  Conference  by  Quar- 
terly Meetings  were  reported. 

Into  full  connection — Nathan  Austin,  Wm.  H.  Cairn- 
duff,  Wm.  Craig,  Orrin  German,  Robt.  H.  Hall.  Richard 
G.  James,  John  E.  Lanceley,  John  J.  Leach,  Henry  M. 
Manning,  Charles  E.  Mclntyre,  Joseph  Odery.  Austin 
Potter,  Thomas  H.  Patchell,  Wm.  Pyke,  Th.  J.  Reid, 
Charles  Smith,  James  Simpson,  John  C.  Stevenson,  Alex. 
Thibaudeau,  Christopher  L.  Thompson,  James  Turner 
Reuben  Toye,  Albert  J.  Van  Camp,  Wm.  Walsh,  Cover- 
dale  Watson. 

Rev.  John  G.  Manly  was  received  from  the  Congre- 
gational Union,  and  George  A.  Gifford  from  the  Primi- 
tive Methodist  Church. 

Thirty-six  young  men  were  received  on  trial. 

Died — George  Sexsmith,  Feb.  22nd,  1874,  aged  39  years. 

George  Goodson,  May  14th,  1874,  aged  64  years. 

George  Mclntyre,  May  17th,  1874,  aged  2^  years. 

Noble  F.  English.  May  23rd,  1874,  aged  53  years. 

Book  Stezvard — Samuel  Rose. 

Editor — Edward  H.  Dewart. 

Editor  of  S.  S.  Publications — ^Wm.  H.  Withrow,  M.A. 

Delegates  from  the  New  Connexion  Conference,  Revs. 
James   McAllister,    David    Savage,    Wm.    Tindall,   Geo. 

291 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Buggin  and  J.  Mitchell,  Esq.,  were  introduced.  After 
their  addresses  a  Committee  was  appointed  to  consider 
certain  modifications  in  the  Basis  of  Union.  Concur- 
rence in  the  request  presented  by  the  Delegates  was 
approved  by  the  Committee  and  adopted  by  the  Confer- 
ence. 

A  session  was  held  on  Monday  evening  for  the  recep- 
tion of  Delegates. 

A  deputation  from  Whitby — Messrs.  Aaron  Ross, 
Judge  Burnham,  W.  Couthard  and  Rev.  J.  E.  Sanderson 
— was  introduced  and  presented  a  Memorial  in  regard 
to  the  projected  Ladies'  College  at  Whitby.  The 
Memorial  was  referred  to  a  committee,  who  reported: 

1.  We  recommend  the  Conference  to  grant  the  prayer 
of  the  memorialists,  accepting  the  College  as  a  Connex- 
ional  Institution,  extending  to  it  the  confidence  and 
patronage  of  the  Conference,  but  without  any  financial 
responsibility. 

2.  That  the  College  be  placed  under  the  special  super- 
vision and  patronage  of  the  Toronto  Conference,  with 
such  authority  to  appoint  Officers  and  Visitors  as  may  be 
granted  from  time  to  time  by  the  General  Conference,  in 
accordance  with  the  Charter  and  by-laws  of  the  College. 

The  Report  was  adopted  by  the  Conference. 

The  Directors  having  requested  the  sanction  of  the 
Conference  to  their  appointment  of  the  Rev.  J.  E.  San- 
derson, M.A.,  as  Principal,  the  request  was  concurred 
in,  and  he  was  also  appointed  Moral  Governor. 

The  Rev.  E.  B.  Ryckman,  M.A.,  was  appointed  Gov- 
ernor of  the  Educational  Institute  at  Dundas;  the  Rev. 
Wm.  Hansford,  Governor  of  Stanstead  College ;  and  the 
Rev.  Allan  Bowerman,  M.A.,  Governor  of  the  new  In- 
stitute in  Manitoba. 

The  total  value  of  church  and  parsonage  property  was 
about  $3,300,000. 

The  Address  of  the  Eastern  Conference  was  read. 
292 


UNION   ARRANGEMENTS   ACCEPTED 

Arrangements  were  made  for  the  several  Annual  Con- 
ferences to  meet  at  the  rising  of  Conference  to  organize, 
according  to  decision  of  last  Conference. 

It  was  agreed  that  the  London  Conference  should  meet 
on  the  first  Wednesday  in  June ;  the  Toronto  Conference 
on  the  second  Wednesday  in  June  ;  and  the  Montreal  Con- 
ference on  the  third  Wednesday  in  June. 

The  Conference  closed  at  4.30  o'clock  Thursday. 

The  Toronto  Conference  met  in  the  John  St.  Church. 
The  Rev.  Dr.  Wood  was  elected  President,  and  the  Rev. 
John  Shaw  Secretary. 

The  Conference  of  the  Wesleyan  Methodist  Church 
having  accepted  the  Ontario  Ladies'  College,  Whitby, 
as  an  Institution  in  connection  with  our  Church,  and 
having  commended  the  College  to  the  patronage  and 
supervision  of  the  Toronto  Conference,  therefore, 

Resolved — i.  That  this  Conference,  highly  appreciat- 
ing the  liberal  and  ^successful  efforts  already  made  to- 
wards founding  the  Institution,  and  believing  the  project 
well  calculated  to  meet  our  increasing  requirements  in 
female  education,  accept  the  trust  of  such  patronage  and 
supervision,  and  commend  the  College  to  the  confidence 
and  generous  support  of  our  people. 

2.  That  the  Revs.  Dr.  Nelles,  E.  H.  Dewart,  and  W.  H. 
Withrow,  M.A.,  be  appointed  Visitors  to  the  College. 

Representatives  to  the  General  Conference  were 
elected.  The  next  meeting  of  the  Toronto  Conference 
to  be  in  Picton,  on  the  second  Wednesday  of  June,  1875. 

The  London  Conference  met  in  the  King  St.  Church. 
The  Rev.  John  A.  Williams  was  elected  President,  and 
the  Rev.  James  Gray  Secretary. 

Delegates    to    the    General    Conference    were    elected. 

The  Montreal  Conference  met  in  the  Centenary 
Church.  The  Rev.  James  Elliott  was  elected  President, 
and  the  Rev.  Wm.  Scott  Secretary. 

293 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Delegates  to  the  General  Conference  were  elected. 

The  first  session  of  the  Stanstead  College  has  been  a 
decided  success,  and  gives  good  promise  for  the  future. 
The  stock  subscriptions  have  reached  $37,000.  The  Rev. 
A.  Lee  Holmes,  M.A.,  was  reappointed  Principal. 

Circuits 

or 

Conferences.  *      Missions.  Ministers.  Members. 

Toronto    185  284  27,922 

London    159  229  26,699 

Montreal    152  183  18,946 

496  696  73,567 

Of  the  ministers,  75  are  superannuated,  23  are  super- 
numerary, and  130  are  on  probation. 

The  closing  exercises  of  the  Wesleyan  Collegiate  Insti- 
tute, Dundas,  were  highly  satisfactory. 

The  Rev.  Peter  Campbell,  writing  from  Victoria,  April 
ist,  1874,  mentions  the  arrival  of  the  winter  packet  with 
the  first  news  since  the  previous  August  : 

'  The  richly  ladened  Guardian  is  like  the  coming  of  an 
old  friend  to  tell  of  all  that  was  going  on  in  Church  and 
State.  After  a  five  months'  hunt,  many  of  our  Indians 
are  short  of  provisions  and  have  removed  to  places 
where  fish  can  be  caught.  Their  roving  habits  are  not 
favorable  to  mental  or  moral  improvement,  and  the  dis- 
sipations of  the  chase  prove  fatal  to  spiritual  progress. 
Many  contemplate  moving  to  Beaver  Lake,  about  fifty 
miles,  where  buffalo  and  timber  are  more  abundant.  The 
low  temperature  of  the  Saskatchewan  does  not  ensure 
the  safe  ripening  of  the  crops.  My  trips  to  Whitefish 
Lake  were  very  difficult  on  account  of  snowdrifts,  but 
we  found  attentive  hearers.' 

The  Rev.  Dr.  McDonald  writes  from  Shidzuoka,  May 
19th,  1874,  giving  interesting  particulars  of  his  hundred- 
mile  journey  over  mountains  and  rivers,  among  people 
full  of  curiosity,  and  of  the  pleasant  quarters  in  which 
he  and  his  wife  found  a  new  home. 

294 


UNION   ARRANGEMENTS   ACCEPTED 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Crosby,  writing  from  Port  Simp- 
son, July  2nd,  1874,  gives  interesting  particulars  of  his 
return  journey  from  Ontario,  preaching  at  many  places 
on  the  way,  spent  a  week  at  the  "  blessed  camp-meet- 
ing," Chilliwack,  and  reached  home  on  the  last  of  June. 
He  was  soon  busy  selecting  a  site  for  new  mission 
premises,  cheered  by  the  hearty  co-operation  and  bright 
expectations  of  his  people.  They  brought  blankets,  guns 
and  money,  as  willing  offerings,  to  the  amount  of  $560. 

"  Now  I  think  our  friends  in  Canada  will  help  these 
people,  so  willing  to  help  themselves.  Had  we  half-a- 
dozen  men  of  the  right  stamp,  with  real  missionary  souls, 
we  could  give  them  plenty  of  work." 

The  adjourned  New  Connexion  Conference  met  in 
Milton,  Aug.  I2th,  1874.  The  Delegates — Rev.  Wm. 
Williams  and  Robert  Wilkes,  Esq.,  M.P. — reported  that 
the  English  Conference  had  withdrawn  its  opposition 
and  consented  to  the  Union.  The  Conference  then 
adopted  the  Basis  of  Union  without  opposition. 

Delegates  were  elected  to  the  General  Conference.  The 
consummation  was  celebrated  by  a  tea-meeting  in  the 
Wesleyan   Church. 

The  Rev.  W.  M.  Punshon,  LL.D.,  was  elected  Presi- 
dent of  the  English  Conference.  The  Rev.  A.  H.  Reynar, 
B.A.,  son-in-law  of  the  President,  was  introduced  and 
addressed  the  Conference. 

The  Rev.  W.  H.  Withrow,  M.A.,  presented  a  series  of 
suggestions  in  regard  to  the  publication  of  a  Monthly 
Magazine. 

The  Missionary  Committee  met  in  Oshawa  on  the 
i8th  of  August.  Sermons  were  preached  by  the  Rev. 
James  Elliott,  President  of  the  Montreal  Conference, 
and  the  Rev.  J.  A.  Williams,  President  of  the  London 
Conference. 

The  Anniversary  Meeting  was  held  on  Tuesday  even- 
ing, with  James  Gooderham,  Esq.,  of  Streetsville,  in  the 

295 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

chair.  The  Report  read  by  Dr.  Wood  showed  that  there 
were  i6i  domestic  missions  -in  Ontario  and  Quebec, 
besides  missions  to  the  French,  Germans,  Indians  of  the 
North-West,  and  in  Japan. 

Dr.  Taylor  presented  the  financial  statement  showing 
an  income  of  $118,690,  an  increase  of  over  $10,000,  in 
which  was  an  offering  of  $2,200  from  an  anonymous 
friend  in  Quebec.  The  income  did  not  meet  the  expendi- 
ture by  $5,000. 

At  the  General  Conference  of  the  Canada  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church,  at  Napanee,  the  Rev.  Albert  Carman, 
D.D.,  President  of  Albert  College,  was  elected  Bishop. 

The  Committee  on  Union  reported  the  steps  taken 
since  the  appointment  four  years  ago,  referred  to  the 
Union  almost  consummated  between  the  Wesleyan  and 
New  Connexion  Churches,  and  recommended  that  nego- 
tiations be  continued.  The  Revs.  James  Gardiner  and 
Michael  Benson  were  appointed  Delegates  to  the  General 
Conference,  meeting  in  Toronto,  Sept.   i6th. 

Many  Canadians  read  with  grief  the  following: 

"  We  regret  to  announce  the  severe  illness  of  Mrs. 
Phoebe  Palmer,  well  and  favorably  known  for  her  evan- 
gelistic labors,  in  connection  with  her  husband.  Dr. 
Palmer.  Her  case  has  been  critical  for  several  days,  and 
at  this  writing,  Sept.  7th,  1874,  she  is  apparently  very 
near  to  the  closing  moments  of  her  precious  life,  sur- 
rounded by  devoted  friends." — N.  Y.  Cliristian  Advocate. 

On  the  3rd  of  Sept.,  1874,  His  Excellency  Lord  Duff- 
erin,  the  Governor-General,  and  Lady  Dufferin,  visited 
the  Ontario  Ladies'  College.  They  were  received  by 
the  Officers  and  Directors,  who  presented  an  Address,  to 
which  the  Governor-General  replied,  speaking  in  highest 
terms  of  the  costly  mansion  secured,  the  noble  purposes 
to  which  it  was  to  be  devoted,  and  wishing  the  promoters 
great  encouragement  in  their  work. 

On  the  15th  of  September,  the  College  was  formally 
296 


UNION   ARRANGEMENTS   ACCEPTED 

opened.  Congratulatory  addresses  and  music  filled  up 
the  evening.  About  fifty  boarders  and  twenty-five  day 
pupils  were  soon  enrolled  and  prospects  augured  well 
for  future  success. 

The  Delegates  appointed  to  General  Conference  by 
the  Toronto,  London,  Montreal,  Nova  Scotia,  New 
Brunswick,  Newfoundland  and  New  Connexion  Confer- 
ences met  in  the  Metropolitan  Church,  Toronto,  at  lo 
o'clock  on  Wednesday,  Sept.  i6th,  1874.  Hon.  Judge 
Wi'lmot,  ex-Governor  of  New  Brunswick,  was  appointed 
Chairman,  pro  tem.,  and  the  Rev.  A.  Sutherland,  of 
Montreal,  Secretary.  After  devotional  exercises  the 
names  of  the  Delegates  appointed  were  called,  and  a 
large  majority  found  to  be  present.  On  the  third  ballot 
the  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson  was  elected  President,  he  having 
89  votes,  Dr.  Rice  64,  and  Dr.  Douglas  7.  Dr.  Ryerson 
ascended  the  platform  amid  repeated  cheers.  The  Rev. 
D.  D.  Currie  was  elected  Secretary,  with  Rev.  Wm.  Scott 
and  B.  Hopkins,  Esq.,  as  Assistants. 

The  President  addressed  the  Conference,  briefly  re- 
ferring to  the  past  and  the  accomplishment  of  his  desire 
in  seeing  a  General  Conference  composed  of  ministers 
and  laymen  in  equal  numbers. 

A  Committee  was  appointed  to  draft  rules  of  order. 

The  Rev.  Gervase  Smith,  M.A.,  Representative  of  the 
English  Conference,  and  his  companion,  the  Rev.  W.  H. 
Cornforth,  and  the  Rev.  Thomas  Sargeant,  D.D.,  of  the 
United  States,  were  introduced. 

A  Committee  on  Nominations  was  ordered. 

A  Document,  authorizing  the  formation  of  the  present 
Conference,  was  inserted  in  the  Minutes. 

The  Committee  on  Nominations  reported. 

A  tea-meeting  was  given  on  Friday  evening  as  a  wel- 
come to  the  Delegates.  The  evening  was  spent  in  most 
delightful    and    auspicious    fellowship. 

On  Sunday  Bishop  Peck,  Rev.  G.  Smith,  and  o*:her 
297 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

strangers  occupied  city  pulpits.  On  Monday  Bishop 
Peck  gave  a  most  brotherly  and  sympathetic  address. 
The  Rev.  Thomas  Sargeant,  representing  the  M.  E. 
Church,  South,  was  received. 

Much  time  was  necessarily  spent  in  reorganizing  the 
Educational,  Missionary,  Publishing,  and  other  general 
interests  of  the  Church. 

Many  Memorials  and  Reports  of  Committees  passed 
under  careful  revision,  in  earnest  endeavor  to  harmonize 
and  consolidate  the  diverse  elements.  With  general 
unanimity,  '.'  The  Methodist  Church  of  Canada "  was 
accepted  as  the  name. 

A  Committee  was  appointed  to  compile  a  new  Hymn 
Book. 

The  first  Wednesday  in  September,  1878,  was  ap- 
pointed as  the  time  for  the  opening  of  the  next  General 
Conference ;  and  the  same  date  in  every  fourth  year 
thereafter. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Douglas  was  elected  Vice-President. 
The  Rev.  J.  H.  Robinson,  of  the  English  New  Connexion 
Church ;  the  Rev.  George  Young,  and  the  Rev.  Geo. 
McDougall  were  introduced. 

Much  time  was  given  to  Reports  on  Discipline,  the 
Course  of  Study,  etc. 

A  Committee  was  appointed  on  Union  with  other 
Methodist  Churches. 

In  regard  to  Ontario  Ladies'  College  it  was  provided 
that  the  Executive  of  the  General  Conference  should 
appoint  the  Clerical  Directors. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson  was  appointed  Delegate  to  the 
English  Conference.  The  Rev.  S.  Rose  was  appointed 
Book  Steward  in  Toronto,  the  Rev.  A.  W.  Nicholson 
Book  Steward  at  Halifax,  and  also  Editor  of  the  Pro- 
vincial Wcsleyan;  the  Rev.  E.  H.  Dewart,  Editor  of  the 
Christian  Guardian,  and  the  Rev.  W.  H.  Withrow,  M.A., 
Editor  of  the  S.  S.  Periodicals.     The  Rev.  Dr.  Wood 

298 


UNION   ARRANGEMENTS   ACCEPTED 

was  appointed  Missionary  Secretary,  the  Rev.  A.  Suther- 
land Assistant,  and  Jo'hn  McDonald,  Esq.,  Lay  Trea- 
surer. Montreal  was  chosen  as  the  next  place  of 
meeting.  The  Conference  closed  on  Friday  evening,  hav- 
ing been  sixteen  days  in  session.  A  full  account  of  the 
deliberations  and  legislation  was  pubHshed  in  the  Minutes. 

The  organization  of  a  General  Conference,  the  in- 
troduction of  laymen  into  all  Church  Courts,  and  the 
adaptation  of  rules  and  regulations  to  such  greatly 
changed  circumstances  demanded  and  received  the 
gravest  consideration  and  wisest  counsels.  The  dropping 
of  the  name  "  Wesleyan  "  was  regretted  by  many,  but 
it  opened  the  way  for  future  Unions.  "  Methodists " 
was  the  designation  accepted  by  Wesley  himself,  the 
name  found  in  the  Poll  Deed,  on  the  Minutes  of  the 
English  Conference,  and  in  the  Hymn  Book.  "  Wes- 
leyan "  was  a  later  addition,  and  too  restrictive  for 
Canadian  amalgamations. 

The  brotherly  frankness  which  marked  the  delibera- 
tions, the  ability  and  interest  of  the  laymen,  the  great 
accession  of  legal  and  judicial  experience  combined  in 
wonderful  ways  in  the  development  of  a  complicated 
but  harmonious  system.  Whale  the  results  attained  are 
regarded  as  in  the  highest  degree  satisfactory  by  those 
immediately  charged  with  their  elaboration,  assurance 
is  given  of  general  and  hearty  acquiescence  by  the  people 
and  of  great  spiritual  progress  in  years  to  come. 

The  newly-elected  Editor  of  the  Canada  Christian  Ad- 
vocate— the  Rev.  Samuel  G.  Stone^ — speaks  : 

"  Upon  the  question  of  a  united  Methodism  for  this 
Dominion,  we  shall  carry  out  our  personal  convictions, 
entertained  before  we  came  to  this  office,  which  agree 
with  the  expression  of  the  highest  Council  of  our 
Church:  'That  a  proper  and  just  Basis  of  Union  be- 
tween ourselves  and  other  Methodist  bodies  in  Canada 
should    be    prayerfully    and    candidly    sought.'      At    the 

299 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

same  time  we  shall  feel  it  our  duty  to  sacredly  guard 
those  principles  to  which  we  have  so  long  adhered." 

A  Correspondent  of  the  above  paper  says : 

'  By  all  means  let  us  follow  the  example  of  the  Presby- 
terians, who  are  this  very  week  in  Toronto  giving  the 
finishing  touch  to  their  Union.  I  do  not  know  that  the 
difficulties  in  our  way  are  greater  than  they  have  sur- 
mounted ;  and  surely  no  one  can  doubt  that  a  Union 
would  be  economy  in  time,  men  and  money.' 

The  Rev.  James  C.  Seymour  writes : 

'  From  every  quarter  comes  intelligence  of  marked 
success  resulting  from  the  consummation  of  Methodist 
Union.  Already  in  many  places  great  spiritual  benefit 
has  resulted;  in  others  union  missionary  meetings  have 
been  ii^ld,  with  greatly  increased  contributions.' 

Mr.  John  P.  Roblin,  of  Picton,  elected  to  General 
Conference,  was  unable  to  attend  owing  to  failing  health. 
He  died  at  the  age  of  seventy-five  years,  and  his  funeral, 
Nov.  15th,  1874,  was  very  largely  attended. 

Several  Conference  Executive  Committees  have  been 
considering  the  great  connexional  interests  intrusted  to 
their  oversight,  and  devising  plans  for  aggressive  work. 
The  year  1874  closed  with  evidences  of  general  pros- 
perity and  with  the  seal  of  divine  approval  upon  the 
multiplied  and  extending  operations  of  the  Methodist 
Church. 

The  year  1875  witnessed  the  harmonious  blending  of 
three  branches  of  Methodism^ — the  Wesleyan  and  New 
Connexion  of  Canada,  and  the  Wesleyan  Church  of 
Eastern  British  America,  under  the  new  name,  "  The 
Methodist  Church  of  Canada."  Two  of  the  church 
papers  are  also  merged  in  one,  and  will  henceforth  appear 
as  the  Christian  Guardian  and  Evangelical  Witness, 
under  the  joint  editorship  of  the  Revs.  E.  H.  Dewart 
and  David  Savage,  who  express  the  hope  '  that  the  two 
streams,  flowing  thus  far  in  separate  channels,  but  now 
united  as  one  river,  with  wider  sweep  and  mightier 
volume,  will  spread  life  and  fruit  fulness  along  its  course. 

300 


UNION   ARRANGEMENTS   ACCEPTED 

The  Missionary  contributions  brought  in  by  the  Meth- 
odist Sunday  School  scholars  of  Montreal  on  New  Year's 
morning,  1875,  amounted  to  over  $4,000. 

Mr.  Robert  Campbell,  of  Montreal,  widely  known  and 
highly  esteemed  in  social,  religious  and  business  life,  died 
Jan.  2nd,   1875. 

The  death  of  Mrs.  David  Torrance,  one  of  the  fore- 
most Christian  women  of  Montreal,  and  also  that  of 
Mrs.  Thomas  Kay,  a  helper  in  all  good  work,  will  be 
deeply  regretted. 

Very  appreciative  reviews  of  "  Catacombs  of  Rome," 
by  the  Rev.  W.  H.  Withrow,  M.A.,  have  appeared  in 
the  London  Quarterly  Review  and  the  Bibliotheca  Sacra. 

Whitby,  Jan.  30th,  1875 — 

'  It  may  answer  many  enquiries  and  afford  satisfaction 
to  stockholders  and  patrons  of  Ontario  Ladies'  College 
to  say  that  thus  far  our  expectations  have  been  sur- 
passed. We  have  already  enrolled  eighty  pupils,  of  whom 
fifty  are  boarders.  .  .  .  Our  staff  of  teachers  is 
complete,  and  they  are  doing  thorough  work.  By  daily 
visits  of  friends  from  far  and  near,  our  buildings  and 
the  accommodations  we  offer  are  becoming  known.  The 
stock  list  is  over  $40,000,  and  payments  come  in 
promptly.  We  are  thankful  to  be  able  to  report  encour- 
aging progress.' — J.  E.  Sanderson. 

The  Rev.  George  Young  writes : 

'  I  have  just  returned  from  a  trip  with  dog  sleds  to  the 
missions  of  the  north,  travelling  1,200  miles  in  six 
weeks,  camping  in  the  snow  twenty-three  nights,  forty 
below  zero,  or  more.  The  thermometer  at  Oxford  House 
would  mark  no  lower,  but  another  registered  58.  My 
Indians  had  cheeks  and  ears  frozen.  I  had  a  shawl  over 
mine,  and  after  three  days  under  the  doctor's  care,  I  am 
better.' 

The  Rev.  Lewis  Warner,  appointed  at  the  last  Con- 
ference to  the  Saskatchewan,  and  to  take  charge  of  the 
District  during  the  absence  of  the  Chairman,  writes  from 
Edmonton  House,  Jan.   nth,   1875: 

'  We  left  Toronto  on  the  nth  of  July  and  sailed  from 
301 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Sarnia  the  same  day.  After  a  favorable  voyage  through 
the  great  lakes,  we  received  a  hearty  welcome  at  Win- 
nipeg from  the  Rev.  George  Young,  who  is  doing  a 
great  work  in  Manitoba.  Our  trail  pased  through 
Portage  la  Prairie,  where  we  found  Bro.  Fawcett  and 
family  in  their  new  parsonage.  Their  cheerful  greeting 
made  us  almost  forget  that  we  were  in  a  land  of  stran- 
gers, two  thousand  miles  from  home.  The  journey  to 
Edmonton  was  tedious — 74  days  and  nights — the  low 
lands  and  marshes  flooded  by  unusual  rains.  Heavily 
ladened  carts  broke  down ;  even  our  new  wagons  needed 
much  repairing.  Two  horses  strayed  and  could  not  be 
found.  We  had  yet  750  miles  before  us,  and  half  the 
distance,  not  a  house.  Every  available  horse  and  ox  be- 
longing to  our  party  of  forty  carts  was  in  use,  so  we 
had  to  depend  on  worn-out  horses  for  hire  all  the  way 
up.  At  one  place  our  trail  led  directly  through  a  large 
pond  or  lake.  Our  guide  said  there  was  no  alternative, 
so  in  we  went.  The  foremost  horse  began  to  sink  in  the 
mire,  and,  plunging,  went  under.  With  difificulty  he  was 
detached  from  the  wagon  and  swam  ashore.  The  horse 
I  drove  was  soon  in  the  same  predicament,  and  had  to 
be  released  from  the  buckboard.  There  in  the  middle 
of  the  lake  we  were  left,  but  in  time  were  helped 
through.  The  streams  were  all  unusually  swollen,  and 
forcing  the  poor  horses  and  oxen  into  them  was  difficult ; 
the  exit  up  the  steep  banks  even  more  so.  Amid  prairie 
fires  we  had  narrow  escapes  and  lost  some  things  of  much 
value.  Through  August  the  heat  was  intense.  In  Sep- 
tember and  October  the  nights  were  cold,  with  one  severe 
snowstorm.  The  country  from  Western  Minnesota  to 
the  Rocky  Mountains  is  the  finest  tract  of  land  on  this 
continent.  We  all  arrived  safely  at  our  places  of  destina- 
tion. Mr.  Hardesty,  Chief  Factor  at  Edmonton  House, 
gave  us  a  hearty  welcome.  The  missionaries  of  former 
years  have  done  a  great  work.  Their  kindness  to  the 
Indians  prepared  the  way  for  the  Anglo-Saxon  race,  and 
ensured  loyalty  to  the  British  Crown.  All  the  brethren 
attended  District  Meeting.  The  state  and  needs  of  the 
missions  were  carefully  considered,  and  we  trust  the 
requests  will  be  granted.  Notwithstanding  the  extreme 
cold,  our  Quarterly  and  Missionary  meetings  were  sea- 
sons of  great  interest.    A  missionary  oflfering  of  $245 

302 


UNION   ARRANGEMENTS   ACCEPTED 

from  these  poor  people!  The  two  or  three  hundred 
Indians  at  Whitefish  Lake  subscribed  $120.  They  have 
an  interesting  Sunday  School,  superintended  by  Miss 
Barratt,  of  Orono,  and  a  day  school  of  over  60  children, 
among  them  two  sons  of  the  missionary,  Rev.  H.  Stein- 
haur,  whom  he  is  most  anxious  to  send  to  Victoria 
College,  in  the  hope  that  they  will  become  missionaries. 
Our  church  is  now  lighted  with  a  beautiful  chandelier, 
lamps  and  oil,  sent  by  John  McDonald,  Esq.,  of  Toronto. 
Two  beautiful  stained-glass  windows  have  been  received 
— one  from  Jos.  McCausland,  Esq.,  of  Toronto,  for  the 
church  at  Edmonton ;  the  other  from^  R.  Lewis,  Esq.,  of 
London,  which  will  be  placed  in  the  Bow  River  Church. 
For  all  these  gifts  our  Indians  send  most  hearty 
thanks.    Of  other  places  I  hope  to  write  in  due  time.' 

Ontario  Ladies'  College — 

'  The  magnificent  hall  and  suite  of  rooms  in  the  second 
flat  were  for  the  first  time  opened  to  a  public  audience, 
and  were  thronged  with  an  audience  eager  to  hear  Prof. 
Goldwin  Smith's  lecture  on  England.  Sheriff  Reynolds 
presided,  encircled  by  officers  and  teachers  of  the  College, 
ministers,  visitors,  and  a  brilliant  array  of  some  hundred 
young  ladies.  A  few  pieces  of  music  by  Mr.  Torrington 
and  his  finely  trained  pupils  were  highly  applauded. 
Strangers  from  Toronto,  Hamilton,  Cobourg,  and  other 
places  seemed  greatly  delighted.' 

Amalgamation  in  Owen  Sound — 

*  The  New  Connexion  congregation  here  and  ours 
arranged  to  come  together  next  Sabbath.  To  celebrate 
the  union  a  tea-meeting  was  held,  and  about  $5,000 
subscribed  towards  building  a  suitable  church.' — J.  G.  L. 

A  Japanese  convert — 

'  When  Nee  Suna  returned  to  his  people,  his  aged 
father  bowed  and  wept  for  joy.  His  revered  mother 
threw  her  paper  gods  into  the  fire.  Old  acquaintances 
flocked  in  to  hear  his  story.  Even  the  priests  gave  him 
audience  in  a  Buddhist  temple.  So  also  did  the  magis- 
trates, and  he  writes :  "  I  find  all  ready  for  the  Gospel."  ' 

The  Wesleyan  and  New  Connexion  congregations,  of 
Aurora,  have  decided  to  unite  in  the  Wesleyan  Church 
and  sell  the  old  one. 

303 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  need  of  prohibitory  liquor  legislation  has  been 
much  discussed  of  late,  and  petitions  with  about  half  a 
million  signatures  were  sent  in  to  Parliament.  In  the 
House  of  Commons  a  Committee  was  appointed  to  con- 
sider the  matter. 

A  Convention  of  Primitive  Methodist  Ministers,  re- 
cently held  in  Toronto,  considered  the  following  topics : 

1.  The  numerical  and  financial  position  of  our  Church 
in  Canada,  past  and  present. 

2.  The  geographical  position  of  our  Church. 

3.  The  distinctive   features  of  Methodism  in  Canada. 

4.  Are  we  justified  in  expending  our  means  and 
energies  for  the  further  prosecution  of  Church  work  in 
Canada,  as  a  separate  denomination? 

5.  Canadian  Methodism — its  claims. 

'  Very  full  statistics  were  given  of  money  expended, 
the  resources  and  present  membership  of  the  Church. 
No  attempt  was  made  to  adopt  a  decision  for  or  against 
Union,  but  there  was  no  mistaking  the  strong  current 
of  fraternity  and  its  direction.' 

Tristram  Bickle.  Esq.,  of  Hamilton,  '  died  on  the  23rd 
of  April,  1875.  For  sixty  years  he  had  been  a  member  of 
the  Methodist  Church,  and,  like  the  late  Edward  Jackson, 
was  regarded  as  one  of  the  representative  men  of  the  city.' 

Peter  Pearse,  Esq.,  of  Norwood,  '  was  born  in  Corn- 
wall, England,  Feb.  12th,  1812,  and  in  1835  came  to  Can- 
ada with  his  parents,  who  settled  in  Asphodel.  From  his 
conversion  in  1841,  he  was  a  faithful  member  of  the 
,  Methodist  Church  in  many  official  positions.  His  intelli- 
gence and  abilities  were  shown  in  his  public  services  as 
Magistrate,  Warden,  etc.  He  died  in  Norwood  on  the 
1 2th  of  May,  1875.' 

The  Editor  of  the  Christian  Guardian  and  Dr.  Nelles, 
appointed  by  the  Conference  as  Visitors  to  Ontario 
Ladies'  College,  spent  a  day  examining  into  its  condition, 
and  reported: 

'  It  is  too  much  to  expect  that  any  such  Institution 
should  spring  into  existence  so  fully  equipped  as  to  pre- 
clude improvement.  But  considering  that  the  College 
was  first  opened  last  fall,  that  it  has  now  sixty  boarders 

304 


UNION    ARRANGEMENTS   ACCEPTED 

and  forty-seven  day  pnpils,  and  that  the  receipts  will 
more  than  meet  current  expenses,  the  success  exceeds 
our  expectations.  Much  credit  is  due  to  the  untiring 
energy  of  the  Rev.  J.  E.  Sanderson,  M.A.,  both  in  secur- 
ing the  subscription  of  stock,  the  purchase  of  the  prop- 
erty, and  the  measures  by  which  its  present  position  has 
been  attained.  The  situation  is  beautiful  and  healthy. 
The  buildings  are  capacious,  well  ventilated  and  sur- 
rounded by  extensive  grounds.  The  teaching  appears  to 
be  conducted  with  ability  and  efficiency.  Mr.  Torrington 
is  Director  of  the  musical  department.' 


H-?r 


W.dC'Ojfl-^  • 


-:  P. 


Wesley  College,  Winnipeg. 
305 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 

1875. 
HARMONIOUS  CO-OPERATION. 

The  Conferences  —  Appeal  —  Corson  —  Camp-meetings — Ontario 
Ladies'  College  —  Lucas  —  Convention — Grimsby — Lindsays — 
Quebec — Belleville — Barrie  District  —  Union  —  Winnipeg  — 
French  Missions  —  Miller  —  Montreal,  McDougall,  Young, 
Meacham,  Algoma. 

Under  new  arrangements  the  number  of  Conferences 
is  increasing  and  our  notice  of  each  will  necessarily  be 
brief. 

The  London  Conference  is  first  on  the  list,  meeting 
in  London  on  the  2nd  of  June,  1875. 

President — Rev.  John  A.  Williams. 

Secretary — Rev.  Wm.  Williams. 

Into  full  connection — John  Turner,  John  Robins, 
Thomas  E.  Morden,  B.A..  Reuben  Millyard,  Wm.  J. 
Maxwell,  Henry  E.  Hill,  Henry  Berry,  James  Mooney, 
Geo.  W.  Calvert,  Jabez  Edmonds. 

Total  number  of  members,  32,787:  increase,  2,017. 

The  harmonious  blending  of  ministers  previously  in 
separate  churches  was  delightful. 

Eight  brethren  had  died  during  the  year : 

William  Hay,  Sept.  3rd,   1874,  aged  43  years. 

Joseph  Reynolds,  Oct.  i6th,  1874,  aged  64  years. 

John  Hutchinson,  Nov.  4th,  1874,  aged  78  years. 

Charles  Freshman,  D.D.,  Jan.  4th,  1875;,  aged  55  years. 

James  Armstrong,  Feb.  9th,  1875,  aged  59  years. 

Henry  Kellam,  April  23rd,  1875,  aged  38  years. 

Robert  Reynolds,  May  23rd,  1875,  ^g^d  28  years. 

Richard  Lyle  Tucker,  May  23rd,  1875,  aged  48  years. 

The  work  of  the  Stationing  Committee  was  success- 
fully accomplished  and  a  place  found  for  every  man. 

306 


1.  Antliffe,  J.  C.  D.D. 

4.  Wooctsworth.  Jas.,  U. !). 

7.  Williamson,  J.  S.,  D.D. 


2.  Mrs.  J.  C.  Antliffe 

5.  Sutherland,  D.  G.,  D.D. 

8.  Campbell,  Rev.  Th.  M. 


3.  Burwash,  John,  LL.D. 
6.  Shaw,  W.  I.,  LL.D. 
!>.  McBride,  Mr.  Wm. 


I 


HARMONIOUS    CO-OPERATION 

The  Toronto  Conference  was  held  in  Picton,  com- 
mencing on  the  9th  of  June,  1S75.  The  town  is  pleas- 
antly located  by  the  beautiful  Bay  of  Quinte  and  has 
interesting  Methodistic  reminiscences.  In  this  region 
our  first  Canadian  itinerants  began  their  labors,  won 
their  first  trophies  and  built  the  earliest  sanctuaries. 
Here,  while  the  town  bore  the  earlier  name  of  Hallo- 
well,  was  organized  in  1824,  the  first  Canadian  Confer- 
ence. The  only  member  of  this  Conference  who  at- 
tended the  first  is  the  Rev.  Dr.  Green.  Here  also, 
in  1832,  the  movement  was  initiated  for  union  with  the 
British  Conference;  and  here  the  Toronto  Conference 
holds  its  first  session  after  union  with  the  New  Con- 
nexion Church. 

The  Rev.  Enoch  Wood,  D.D.,  was  elected  President — 
his  tenth  election  to  that  high  office — and  the  Rev.  John 
Shaw  Secretary. 

Dr.  Wood  gratefully  acknowledged  divine  direction 
and  blessing  in  our  Ecclesiastical  progress  and  congrat- 
ulated his  brethren  on  the  bright  outlook  before  them. 

The  Rev.  George  Douglas,  LL.D.,  Vice-President  of 
the  General  Conference,  was  introduced. 

The  following  young  men  were  received  into  full 
connection — Edward  F.  Goff,  Adam  Glazier,  William  G. 
Plowson,  George  J.  Bishop,  Joseph  R.  Gibson,  Isaac  N. 
Robinson,  John  Hart,  Wm.  Buchanan,  Arthur  B. 
Hames,  Wm.  H.  Cook,  Samuel  Salton,  John  W.  Cath- 
cart,  John  Semmens,  John  Walton,  Wm.  V.  Sexsmith. 

Twenty-three  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — Edward  Harris,  Oct.  9th,  1874,  aged  41  years. 
John  Lever,  April,  1875,  aged  y;^  years. 
Joel  Briggs,  May  ist,  1875,  aged  48  years. 

Members  reported,  31,743;  increase  3,800. 

Educational  statistics — Two  Universities,  with  229 
Students,  in  Arts,  Law  and    Medicine;    3    Theological 

307 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

Schools,  with  80  students ;  6  Academies  for  boys,  with 
430  students ;  7  Academies  and  Colleges  for  girls,  with 
750  students. 

The  ordination  and  other  services  were  largely  at- 
tended and  heartily  enjoyed. 

The  Montreal  Conference  assembled  in  Sydenham 
St.  Church,  Kingston,  June  i6th,  1875. 

President — Rev.  James  Elliott ;  Secretary — Rev.  Wm. 
Scott. 

Into  full  connection— y\im.  Knox,  Wm.  F.  Perley,  J. 
E.  Werden,  Wm.  Austin,  Henry  W.  Knowles,  Wm. 
Timberlake,  A.  Lee  Holmes,  M.A.,  John  W.  Clipsham, 
Francis  De  Long,  John  R.  Fowkes,  John  Syvert, 
Edward  De  Gruchy. 
Died — Brock  Rose,  June  20tli,   1874,  aged  39  years. 

Thomas  Atkinson,  Dec.  29th,  1874,  aged  50  years. 

The  Rev.  Michael  Fawcett  was  introduced  and  gave 
an  account  of  his  work  in  Manitoba. 

A  message  of  congratulation  was  sent  to  the  Presby- 
terian General  Assembly  on  the  completion  of  their 
union. 

The  Nova  Scotia  Conference  opened  in  Halifax, 
June  loth,  1875.  President — Rev.  Alex.  W.  Nicolson  ; 
Secretary — Rev.  Robert  A.  Temple.  About  seventy 
ministers,  thirty  probationers  and  candidates  attended. 

Died — Charles  DeWoIfe,  D.D.,  June  9th,  1875,  aged 
60  years. 

The  New  Brunswick  Conference,  in  St.  John,  was 
attended  by  about  seventy  preachers.  President — Rev. 
Duncan  D.  Currie;  Secretary — Rev.  Robert  Duncan. 

Died — Stephen  Humphrey,  M.A.,  April  i6th,  1875, 
aged  46  years. 

The  addresses  and  sermons  of  the  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson, 
Delegate  to  these  Conferences,  were  highly  appreciated. 

The  Newfoundland  Conference  was  held  in  St.  Johns, 
308 


HARMONIOUS    CO-OPERATION 

President,  Rev.  Thomas  Harris ;  Secretary,  Rev.  James 
Dove.    Increase  of  members,  600. 

By  a  law,  taking  effect  July  ist,  1875,  the  Protestant 
Boards  of  Education,  Newfoimdland.  were  dissolved, 
and  the  Government  grants  made  to  the  Denominations. 
This  is  contrary  to  Methodist  views,  but  to  insure  the 
efficiency  of  Methodist  Schools  the  Conference  ap- 
pointed the  Rev.  Geo.  S.  Milligan,  M.A.,  to  their  over- 
sight. A  request  was  forwarded  to  the  Board  of  Mis- 
sions that  Mr.  Milligan  be  also  appointed  Superinten- 
dent of  Missions  in  the  Island. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Wood  left  on  the  9th  of  July  for  Winni- 
peg, and  the  Rev.  George  McDougall  for  Edmonton. 

The  corner-stone  of  the  new  Dominion  Churcli, 
Ottawa,  was  laid  by  W.  E.   Sanford.   Esq. 

The  Sunday  School  in  Charlottetown,  P.  E.  I.,  has 
volvmteered  to  support  the  new  mission  to  be  opened  at 
Bow  River,  to  the  extent  of  $1,000  a  year. 

The  missionary  treasurers  issued  an  earnest  appeal 
for  a  large  increase  in  contributions  to  meet  the  rapidly 
increasing  demands. 

The  Missionary  Board  of  the  Canada  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  requested  the  Rev.  James  Gardiner  to 
visit  Manitoba  during  the  summer  and  arrange  for  the 
opening  of  a  mission. 

Rev.  Robert  Corson  writes : 

'  It  is  fifty-one  years  since  I  was  appointed  to  the 
Dumfries  Circuit.  The  circuit  was  new — only  120 
members.  But  I  had  labor  enough.  There  were' 
eighteen  appointments.  Eighty  members  were  added 
to  the  Church  the  first  year.  '  I  received  $120.  But 
changes  have  taken  place.  Instead  of  one  preacher, 
there  are  now  twelve,  and  nine  circuits  with  some 
splendid  churches.  Our  union  with  the  British  Confer- 
ence in  1847  was  a  great  success.  Our  union  with  the 
New  Connexion  will  be  a  blessing  to  both  churches. 
Our  Episcopal   brethren   are   clinging  to  the   Presiding 

309 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

Elder  system,  but  when  they  unite  with  us  they  may 
think  differently/ 

Camp-meetings  were  held  at  Grimsby,  Nelson,  Chris- 
tian Island,  Parry  Sound,  Bond  Head,  Oneida,  Oak- 
wood,  Maitland,  etc.  The  Indians  of  Christian  Island 
subscribed  about  $150  to  provide  bread  and  meat  for 
their  people  coming  from  other  missions. 

A  revival  movement  spread  for  several  weeks  in 
Sydenham,  near  Owen  Sound,  enlisting  Presbyterians, 
Baptists  and  Methodists. 

Clement  Lucas  came  from  New  Brunswick  to  Upper 
Canada  in  1807  and  settled  at  Wellington  Square, 
where  he  died  at  the  age  of  93  years.  His  son,  Capt. 
John  Lucas,  father  of  the  Rev.  D.  V.  Lucas,  was  born 
at  St.  John,  N.B.,  May  20th,  1800,  was  married  to 
Elizabeth  Young  in  1823.  They  joined  the  Methodist 
Church  in  Nelson  the  next  year  and  continued  members 
while  they  lived.  Mrs.  Lucas  died  in  1865  and  Mr. 
Lucas  in  1875 — both  being  held  in  the  highest  esteem 
for  Christian  fidelity. 

A  Prohibition  Convention  was  held  in  Montreal  Sept. 
i6th  and  17th,  1875,  attended  by  over  300  Delegates. 
The  Hon.  Mr.  Vidal,  G.  W.  Ross,  M.P. ;  Hon.  Malcolm 
Cameron,  Mrs.  Letitia  Youmans,  and  Hon.  Neal  Dow 
were  among  the  prominent  speakers.  A  series  of  reso- 
lutions was  adopted  urging  entire  prohibition  of  the  manu- 
facture, importation  and  sale  of  intoxicating  liquors. 

The  Rev.  James  Caughey  writes  from  New  Bruns- 
wick, N.  J. : 

'  My  health  is  permanently  impaired — the  result  of 
hard  work  and  badly  ventilated  churches,  particularly 
in  England.  Pen  and  pulpit  I  have  had  to  resign. 
Holiness  to  the  Lord!     Oh.  what  a  paradise!' 

Extensive  improvements  were  completed  for  the 
camp-meeting  at  Grimsby.  '  The  Rev.  G.  R.  Sanderson 
was  in  the  chair  and  the  services  were  begun  on  the 
26th  of  August.     Takingx  as  his  text — "  In  the  name  of 

310 


HARMONIOUS    CO-OPERATION 

our  God  we  will  set  up  our  banners,"  the  Chairman 
preached  an  appropriate  sermon.  On  Friday  hundreds 
arrived  by  trains  and  private  conveyances,  filling  every 
cottage  and  tent.  Over  one  hundred  and  twenty  pro- 
fessed conversion.  During  the  next  year  over  a  hundred 
cottages  will  probably  be  built  on  the  grounds,  and  more 
than  a  thousand  dollars  be  spent  in  building  a  pier  and 
other  improvements.  Nearly  all  the  lots  have  been  sold 
and  twelve  acres  additional  purchased  at  a  cost  of  nearly 
$5,000.  Great  credit  is  due  Noah  Phelps,  Esq.,  of  St. 
Catharines,  the  energetic  President,  and  John  B. 
Bowslaugh,  Esq.,  of  Grimsby,  for  the  wisdom  and  skill 
that  have  made  the  Ontario  Camp  Ground  an  acknowl- 
edged success.' — John  Ridley. 

Other  Camps — 

'  We  recently  attended  two  Indian  camp-meetings — 
one  with  the  Oneidas  and  Onondagas,  under  the  charge 
of  Rev.  Wm.  Cross;  the  other  with  the  Ojibways, 
Munceys  and  Delawares,  under  Revs.  Cosford  and 
Tucker.  As  they  speak  different  languages,  the  meet- 
ings, though  not  a  mile  apart,  were  held  separately 
and  in  succession.  At  the  first  the  attendance  was 
small  at  the  beginning;  but  on  Saturday  the  Indians 
gathered  in,  repaired  their  old  tents,  built  new  ones 
and  were  cheered  by  the  coming  of  many  from  the 
Grand  River  and  other  places.  Messrs.  Dupont  and 
Smith,  with  some  of  their  people,  came  from  the  United 
States  and  gave  valuable  assistance.  On  Monday 
evening   about   thirty    were     forward,     seeking    mercy. 

'  The  closing  on  Tuesday  morning  was  a  time  of  deep 
emotion  and  hallowed  interest.  Oh  that  we  could  have 
understood  the  language  in  which  they  spoke  their 
happy  experience!  Whites  and  Indians  bowed  together 
to  receive  the  Communion  from  our  venerable  Indian 
brother,  Rev.  Abraham  Sickles. 

'The  Lindsay  Financial  District  meeting  showed 
signs  of  vigorous  progress,  under  the  energetic  Chair- 
man. Rev.  Charles  F'ish.  Lindsay  is  planning  for 
church  extension ;  Omemee  is  aiming  at  a  new  and  com- 
modious church,  and  enlargement  of  the  parsonage; 
Oakwood  is  wiping  off  a  debt  of  $1,000  on  the  parson- 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

age;  Dunsford  is  preparing  for  a  new  parsonage  and 
church  sheds ;  Fenelon  Falls  is  clearing  off  a  parsonage 
debt ;  Woodville  is  contemplating  two  new  churches ; 
Bobcaygeon  is  ambitious  of  circuit  status  and  a  five- 
thousand-dollar  church ;  Coboconk  is  eager  for  im- 
provements; Cannington  intends  freeing  the  parsonage 
from  debt;  Beaverton,  Minden,  and  Haliburton  are 
determined  to  keep  pace  with  other  parts  of  the  District. 
The  Oakwood  camp-meeting  was  in  progress  and  the 
meeting  proved  mutually  helpful.' — John  Wesley  Sav- 
age. 

The  Quebec  Financial  District  Meeting  was  held  at 
Sawyerville.  '  The  opening  meeting,  Tuesday  evening — 
the  Chairman,  Rev.  Henry  F.  Bland,  presiding — was  for 
the  consideration  of  evangelistic  work.  The  topic  was 
introduced  by  Rev.  John  Scanlon,  after  which  laymen  and 
ministers  took  part  in  free,  earnest  and  profitable  dis- 
cussion. The  missions  on  this  District  are  so  closely 
hemmed  in  by  Romanism  that  extension  is  difficult  and 
missionary  grants  a  necessity.  A  Class  Leader's  Con- 
vention was  held  on  the  second  evening,  with  good 
attendance  and  deep  interest.  Wm.  Sawyer,  Esq., 
M.P.P.,  opened  the  subject  and  was  followed  by  Mr. 
Orr,  Registrar  of  the  County,  and  others.  All  felt  that 
the  meeting  was  not  for  financial  interests  only  but  as  "a 
season  of  grace  and  sweet  delight "  also.' 

The  new  M.  E.  Tabernacle  in  Belleville  will  cosl 
about  $30,000,  half  of  which  is  provided  for. 

The  Goderich  District  Sunday  School  Convention  was 
held  at  Seaforth.  Rev.  Ch.  Lavell  gave  the  opening 
address.  The  first  topic — "  What  the  Sunday  School 
is  for  and  what  it  has  accomplished." — was  presented 
by  the  Rev.  James  Caswell.  "  The  organization  and 
management  of  the  Sunday  School  "  was  introduced  by 
Rev.  F.  E.  Nugent.  The  evening  and  the  next  day 
were  very  profitably  occupied  by  lessons,  addresses  and 
discussions. 

After  the  Barrie  District  Meeting  in  Bracebridge, 
the  Chairman,  Rev.  John  Bredin,  in  a  hired  conveyance. 

312 


HARMONIOUS    CO-OPERATION 

with  Rev.  W.  W.  Leech  as  companion,  visited  some  of 
the  Muskoka  missions. 

'After  twenty-five  miles'  drive  through  roads  that 
beggar  description,  we  reached  Huntsville,  put  up  at 
a  hostelry  and  met  a  small  congregation,  gathered 
on  short  notice  in  the  schoolhouse.  The  embryo  vil- 
lage is  amid  settlers'  homesteads,  on  the  beautiful  Lake 
Vernon,  the  headquarters  of  Rev.  Thomas  W.  Hall, 
•trying  to  live  with  his  family  and  colleague  in  a  habita- 
tion sixteen  feet  square.  Efforts  were  in  progress  to 
enclose  the  framework  of  a  church,  which  for  lack  of 
means  had  been  standing  for  three  years.  The  country 
is  fast  filling  up  with  newcomers,  eager  for  free  grant 
lots,  but  until  recently  without  much  effort  to  meet  their 
spiritual  wants  bv  any  denomination.  Saturday,  Sept. 
1 8th,  opened  frosty  but  bright  and  it  was  found  that 
some  of  the  farmers'  oats  had  been  "  nipped  by  the  un- 
timely blast,"  and  were  scarcely  worth  the  harvesting. 
After  a  6  o'clock  breakfast  the  trio  of  clerics,  each 
with  a  paddle,  started  down  stream  in  a  log  canoe,  to 
visit  some  of  the  settlements  by  Fairy  Lake,  Th« 
scenery  is  surpassingly  lovely.  Whether  of  old  or 
more  recently  the  "  little  folk,"  in  elfin  form,  played 
their  pranks  on  the  sheen  of  the  shores  or  spent  their 
brief  summers  amid  the  dells  of  the  sylvan  solitudes, 
we  stay  not  to  inquire.  The  expletive  is  every  way 
worthy  the  waters  that  sleep  on  in  their  almost  unbroken 
solitude ;  and  we  trust  that  the  children's  children  of 
the  present  inhabitants  will  retain  the  name  by  which 
their  forefathers  baptized  its  crystal  depths — "  Fairy 
Lake."  Here  may  tyro  Nimrods  and  followers  of 
Izaak  Walton  find  to  repletion  both  pleasure  and  profit. 
After  an  excellent  dinner,  Mr.  J.  P.  Fetterly  accom- 
panied us  to  Father  Shea's,  with  whose  family  we 
joined  in  song  and  supplication.  Paddling  our  own 
canoes,  we  reached  the  new  locks,  which  will  open 
navigation  between  Vernon,  Fairy,  Peninsula  and  Mary 
Lakes,  with  an  outlet  into  the  Muskoka  River  and  down 
to  Bracebridge.  Retracing  our  steps  for  Huntsville, 
we  reached  Utterson  in  the  evening  and  found  a  home 
with  Mrs.  Scarlett,  an  old  Methodist  from  Cobourg. 
On   Sunday    morning    we    dedicated    the    new    frame 

313 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

church,  24x40,  in  Utterson.  It  is  beautifully  finished, 
pews  in  oak  graining,  pulpit  and  stairs  carpeted  and  a 
stained  window  over  the  entrance,  for  which  great 
credit  is  due  Mr.  Scarlett  and  his  many  co-workers.  A 
baptism  and  the  Lord's  Supper  followed,  and  closed  a 
service  of  great  local  interest.  In  the  evening,  at 
Bracebridge,  we  had  a  church-full  of  attentive  hearers. 
The  hardest  part  we  found  during  a  week  of  full  em- 
ployment in  the  "  Free  Grant "  country  was  the  thir- 
teen miles  of  red  granite  between  Severn  Bridge  and 
Gravenhurst,  included  in  the  Morrison  Mission,  where 
we  found  Rev.  John  Pepper,  B.A.,  with  a  new  church 
in  Gravenhurst,  standing  half-finished  for  lack  of  funds. 
1  cannot  suppress  the  wish  that  some  lover  of  our  Zion 
would  intrust  me  with  $500  to  assist  in  the  completion 
of  three  mission  edifices.  Muskoka  is  purely  mission 
ground  demanding  Methodist  agency  throughout  the 
entire  district.' — John  Bredin. 

Union — 

'  In  the  new  Walkerton  District  the  Financial  Meet- 
ing, composed  of  former  Wesleyan  and  New  Connexion 
elements  in  nearly  equal  parts,  the  union  was  so  com- 
plete that  old  lines  seemed  entirely  obliterated.  Perfect 
harmony  prevailed  in  all  the  services  and  deliberations.' 

— William  Johnston. 

The  Rev.  W.  R.  Morrison  writes: 

'  We  started  from  Winnipeg  July  29th,  by  stage,  and 
reached  the  Portage  by  6  p.m.,  where  we  were  enter- 
tained by  Mr.  Troop,  in  good  bachelor  style.  Great 
credit  is  due  Rev.  M.  Fawcett  for  the  erection  of  mis- 
sion house  and  church — the  latter  a  plain  log  building, 
holding  150.  From  Portage  la  Prairie  We  passed 
through  Burnside,  seeing  good  settlements  and^  some 
fair  crops.  Changing  horses  at  Westbourne  and  report- 
ing at  Palestine  Police  Camp,  we  finished  seventy  miles 
at  Government  Depot  by  8.45.  Next  morning  we  were 
at  Little  Saskatchewan  about  10  o'clock;  crossed  the 
river  by  bridge  and  were  at  Shoal  Lake  camp  in  the 
evening.  Here  men  are  securing  hundreds  of  tons  of 
hay  for  winter  feed.  Leaving  the  old  trail  we  struck 
north  by  a  more  direct  one  to  Fort  Pelly,  with  finger- 
posts to  guide.     We  spent  the   Sabbath  at  Shell  River 

314 


HARMONIOUS    CO-OPERATION 

Camp.  Off  at  4  a.m.,  with  splendid  horse  and  comfort- 
able buckboard,  for  eighty  miles  before  night.  The 
country  rolling,  scenery  wild  and  picturesque,  but  no 
settlers.  Dinner  at  White  Sand  River ;  at  Fort  Felly  by 
4  o'clock,  where  I  met  Chief  Factor  McBeth  and  left  an 
appointment  for  next  Sunday.  Nine  miles  further  — 
reached  Swan  River  Barracks  at  5.30  p.m. ;  was  received 
very  courteously  by  Capt.  Walker,  and  had  a  room 
allotted  me  in  the  officers'  quarters.  Three  hundred  and 
thirty  miles  in  five  days  is  considered  quick  time.' 

The  Rev.  John  Borland  writes  of  the  French  Mis- 
sions, Quebec :  '  Mons.  Dorion  reports  fair  congrega- 
tions in  Waterloo  and  North  Ely,  admission  to  many 
families  and  several  children  baptized.  A  supply  of 
Bibles  is  kept  among  them  for  giving  or  lending.  Many 
families  were  visited  at  the  Brisette  appointment.  Several 
new  converts  attended  the  Quarterly  Meeting.  Prepara- 
tions were  under  way  for  building  a  mission  house. 
Mons.  Syvert,  of  Roxton  Pond  Mission,  has  six  appoint- 
ments and  several  week-night  services,  with  fair  congre- 
gations. An  intelligent  man,  who  had  been  reading  the 
Bible  two  years,  was  taken  very  ill.  His  friends  wished 
to  send  for  the  priest,  but  he  refused  to  see  him,  and  is 
now  much  persecuted ;  but  he  endures  calmly  for  Christ's 
sake,  and  is  determined  to  make  the  Bible  the  rule  of 
his  life.  Many  others  are  enquiring  and  desiring  copies 
of  the  Scriptures.  It  grieved  him  to  find  fifty  children 
in  these  Protestant  families  growing  up  without  educa- 
tion, there  being  no  schools  except  those  under  the 
priest's  direction.  He  was  planning  to  open  a  school 
and  take  twenty  or  thirty  of  these  children  as  boarders. 
To  make  provision  for  this  will  cost  about  ^600,  and  I 
have  some  promises  of  help.' 

'  Mons.  Sadlier,  of  Canaan  Mission,  preaches  in  both 
languages  to  good  congregations,  has  distributed  four 
hundred  tracts,  three  Bibles,  eight  Testaments,  and 
teaches  a  Bible  class  of  French  and  English  children  in 
the  Sunday  School.  Some  priests  were  having  discus- 
sions on  Protestantism  and  Romanism.  The  missionary 
offered  to  take  a  side,  but  the  priests  preferred  to  have 

315 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

both  sides.     This  gave  opportunity  for  private  discus- 
sion with  the  people  and  the  sowing  of  good  seed.' 

Mr.  I.  V.  Smith,  of  the  Carrying  Place,  volunteered 
his  services  and  a  team  to  convey  the  Chairman,  Rev. 
Wm.  Briggs,  Revs.  J.  E.  Howell  and  William  J.  Hewett 
on  a  visit  to  the  missions  of  Belleville  District. 

'  Starting  September  27th,  we  attended  an  education 
meeting  at  Bridge  water  Monday  evening,  where  the 
amount  of  last  year  was  doubled ;  Tuesday  a  missionary 
meeting  at  Flinton,  where  Brother  Leith  is  preparing  to 
build  a  new  church ;  Wednesday  to  Vannacher,  on  the 
Denbigh  Mission,  taxing  to  the  utmost  endurance 
powers  of  man  and  beast.  Up  before  the  sun  and  de- 
lighted with  a  fine  view  of  his  eclipse,  we  reached  Mas- 
sanoga  Lake,  where  flows  the  ^Mississippi  into  the 
Ottawa,  in  time  for  an  early  dinner.  Then  eighteen 
miles  over  the  worst  of  roads,  made  worse  by  snow  and 
a  violent  rainstorm ;  no  stopping-place,  so  over  the  rocks 
and  corduroys  of  Addington  road  we  endured  the  jolt- 
ing to  Eagle  Hill,  and,  after  making  forty  miles,  drew 
up,  wet,  tired  and  sore,  at  the  Vannacher  parsonage. 
Service  that  evening,  missionary  meeting  the  next,  at 
which  Mr.  Hames,  father  of  our  missionary  at  Thunder 
Bay,  presided.  We  dined  with  Mrs.  McLellan,  a  kind 
and  generous  Scotch  lady.  We  were  to  have  had  a 
meeting  at  Madawaska  River,  among  the  lumbermen, 
but  the  announcement  had  failed.  Saturday  we  were 
on  the  move  at  4  o'clock,  with  forty-seven  miles  before 
us.  The  roads  were  awful.  A  spring  and  other  parts 
of  our  democrat  gave  way,  the  snow  was  falline  heavily, 
but  after  an  hour  the  sun  shone  through,  and  the  roads 
were  better.  From  the  heights  of  the  Opeonga  road  we 
had  fine  views,  and  from  Clear  Lake  could  descry  the 
mountains  beyond  the  Ottawa.  By  nine  o'clock  we 
reached  Rockingham,  and  were  kindlv  entertained  by 
Mr.  Watson.  On  Sunday  we  held  missionary  services 
at  Rockingham,  Cumbermere,  and  Purdy's.  The  Bru- 
denell  Alission  and  their  prospect  of  a  parsonage  pleased 
us.  Monday  we  were  at  Maynooth,  a  mission  fifty 
miles  long,  with  Brother  Baskerville.  At  that  appoint- 
ment the   givings   nearly   equalled   the   total   amount   of 

316 


HARMONIOUS    CO-OPERATION 

last  year  from  the  whole  mission.  We  had  a  fine  meet- 
ing at  York  Branch.  The  country  is  very  fertile,  oats, 
six  or  seven  feet  high,  but  on  account  of  the  rain  and 
snow  they  are  rotting  in  the  fields.  We  failed  to  reach 
Bannockburn,  but  held  a  meeting  at  Deer  Creek.  Push- 
ing on  the  next  day  to  Brother  Roblin's,  we  learned  that 
he  had  held  the  meeting  and  received  good  contribu- 
tions. Thursday  evening  we  had  a  successful  meeting 
on  Madoc  Mission,  and  the  next  day  were  safely  home. 
There  is  good  country  through  Brudenell  and  parts 
adjacent,  but  the  section  north  of  Addington  road  is 
valuable  only  for  its  pine.' — William  J.  Hewitt. 

The  North  St.  Sunday  School,  London,  contributed 
$500  towards  the  support  of  their  missionary.  Rev.  John 
Semmens,  at  Nelson  River,  N.  W.  T. 

On  the  17th  of  Oct.,  1875,  Sunday  School  sermons 
were  preached  in  St.  James  St.  Church,  Montreal,  and 
on  the  next  evening  the  five  schools  of  the  city  assem- 
bled for  their  Anniversary  Meeting.  The  Rev.  Leonard 
Gaetz  presided,  supported  by  the  Superintendent,  Hon. 
James  Ferrier.  The  report,  read  by  Mr.  Whiteside, 
showed : 

'  A  total  of  146  teachers  and  934  scholars.  One  teacher 
was  missing,  Mr.  John  Vipond,  who  was  lost  with  the 
steamship  J^ickshitrg,  on  the  ist  of  June.  His  heroism 
in  helping  the  helpless  and  giving  up  his  last  chance  for 
life  to  another  were  tenderly  referred  to.  The  conver- 
sion of  forty  scholars  during  the  year  was  reported. 
One  boy,  near  to  death,  gave  all  his  savings — $63 — ^to 
the  mission  fund.  The  funds  of  the  morning  school 
were  given  to  the  Oka  Mission  and  those  of  the  after- 
noon school  to  the  Saskatchewan  Mission,  besides  490 
garments.  Of  several  excellent  addresses  the  chief 
interest  centered  in  Mr.  Ferrier's.  He  said  he  had  been 
in  Sunday  School  work  for  forty-eight  years,  and  was 
nearing  the  end.  Some  of  the  scholars  and  one  from 
his  own  class — Mr.  Adam  Miller,  of  Toronto — had  gone 
before  him.  If  many  now  present  could  understand  the 
enjoyment  the  work  had  given  him  they  would  join 
some  Sabbathi  School  and  work  for  God.' 

317 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

Among  the  speakers  at  the  Toronto  missionary  meet- 
ings were  Rev.  Arthur  Browning,  from  British  Colum- 
bia; Henry  F.  Bland,  of  Quebec;  Wm.  J.  Hunter,  of 
Ottawa;  Judge  Deacon,  of  Pembroke  and  W.  Clen- 
denning,  of  Montreal. 

'  The  Rev.  William  Williams  and  W.  H.  Gibbs,  Esq., 
the  Missionary  Deputation  from  the  West  to  the  Lower 
Provinces,  represent  different  departments  of  our 
Church.  Mr.  Williams  is  an  ex-president  of  the  late 
New  Connexion  Church  and  one  of  the  foremost  advo- 
cates of  Union.  That  church  was  essentially  missionary. 
Mr.  Gibbs  is  a  representative  in  the  Local  Legislature. 
His  time  is  money;  yet,  at  the  request  of  the  Central 
Board,  he  went  without  hesitation.  Congregations  can 
scarcelv  be  otherwise  than  benevolent  when  addressed 
by  such  men.' — Halifax  Weslcyon. 

Miss  C.  Battle's  letter  of  experiences : 

'In  this  land  of  furs  and  frosts  Methodism  is  Metho- 
dism still,  retaining  its  faculty  of  warming  all  who  come 
in  contact  with  it.  Its  theology  of  love  melts  the  icy 
heart  and  warms  the  sweet  flowers  of  love,  joy,  and 
hope  into  beautiful  luxuriance.  Only  two  lone  Metho- 
dist missionaries  have  pushed  on  beyond  our  boundar- 
ies. Often  in  rainbow-robed  visions  during  "  life's  earlv 
morn  "  did  I  picture  myself  in  some  far-off  kind,  amid 
the  gorgeous  beauties  of  tropical  luxuriance  or  enduring 
the  frigid  sterility  and  biting  frosts  of  the  North,  repeat- 
ing the  "  old,  old  story  of  Jesus  and  His  love  "  to  eager, 
anxious  souls.  But  my  path  seemed  to  lie  in  a  circle, 
and  nowhere  point  to  the  mission  field,  until  four  years 
ago  I  was  moved  by  the  appeal  of  the  poor  old  Indian 
Chief,  who,  leaving  his  grandchildren  in  his  wigwam, 
paddled  his  bark  canoe  two  hundred  miles  to  Norway 
House,  in  quest  of  a  missionary.  I  could  but  pray  the 
Lord  of  the  harvest  to  send  forth  laborers.  My  heart 
sank  very  low,  but  a  letter  came  from  the  Missionary 
Secretary:  "  Dear  Sister, — We  are  very  much  in  need  of 
a  teacher  for  Rossville,  Norway  House.  Are  you  will- 
ing to  go?"  I  did  not  dare  stop  to  ask  my  heart  that 
question,  but  forced  my  hand  to  write,  "  I  am  willing  to 
go."     It  was  hard  to  say  "  good-bye  "  to  those  I  loved 

318 


HARMONIOUS    CO-OPERATION 

so  much,  and  farewells  were  hastened  by  a  teleofram— 
"  Mrs.  Nixon  and  family  sail  from  Southampton  Satur- 
day evening-.  Can  you  join  them?"  How  could  it  be 
done?  But  done  it  was.  Trunks  were  packed  in  haste, 
and  Friday  eveninisc  found  me  with  aching-  limbs  and 
dizzy  brain  en  route  for  Southampton.  Not  on  Satur- 
day, but  on  Sunday,  May  30th,  after  a  forenoon  of 
bustle  and  haste,  we  heard  the  signal  for  departure, 
aboard  our  sturdy  little  propeller,  the  Asia.  On  Thurs- 
day we  were  landed  safely  at  Duluth,  where  Miss  Nixon 
and  I  busied  ourselves  gathering  specimens  of  copper 
ore,  etc.  Next  morning  we  were  not  sorry  to  leave 
Duluth,  its  hard  beds  and  sour  bread.  Bv  train,  over 
"  ridges,  gullies,  and  bridges,"  we  reached  Brainard  in 
the  evening.  After  a  poor  breakfast,  -no  dinner,  and 
eagerly  expecting  a  comfortable  tea,  we  were  told,  as  we 
had  not  telegraphed,  the  servants  had  retired  and  therp 
could  be  no  tea  that  night.  But  bv  scoldine  and  coax- 
ing we  prevailed.  Headache  and  the  third  nart  of  a 
hard  bed  did  not  ensure  refreshing  rest :  but,  revived  bv 
a  cup  of  tea.  we  left  the  prettv  trees  and  cosy  dwellings 
and  were  earlv  away  to  Moorhead.  In  this  "meanest 
and  muddiest "  and.  we  may  add.  wickedest,  "  of  little 
villages  "  we  were  fated  to  stay  over  Sunday  and  until 
Tuesday  evening.  By  the  Rev.  George  Young  we  were 
informed  of  unavoidable  delay  in  H.  B.  boats  for  Nor- 
way House,  and  our  stav  in  Winnineg  was  prolonged 
for  five  weeks.  But  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Young  made  it  most 
pleasant  by  cheerful,  hospitable  kindness  to  all  the  com- 
pany. Grace  and  Zion  Churches  are  well  atten^lpd: 
their  prayer  and  class  meetings  permeated  with  a  spirit 
of  holy  earnestness.  At  last  ths  H.  B.  boat^  arrived, 
and  with  them  the  Rev.  E.  R.  Youno-.  On  thp  i/tth  of 
July  we  were  aboard  the  steamer  Ma^^^ie  for  Lower 
Fort  Garry,  where  for  two  days  we  were  the  guests  of 
the  officer  in  charge.  Our  company  consisted  of  Rev. 
E.  R.  Young.  Messrs.  McTavish  and  Flett.  ^irs.  Mc- 
Tavish.  myself,  two  H.  B.  officers,  some  native  women 
and  children,  and  a  crew  of  thirty-five  men,  in  a  brig-ade 
of  five  sailboats,  for  a  trip  of  nearly  four  hundred  miles. 
As  we  landed  fifteen  huge  dogs  bounded  and  barked 

319 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

for  joy :  the  Indians  laughed  and  shook  hands, 
and  two  dear  little  children  were  wild  with  excitement, 
"  'cause  Papa's  come  home,"  and  Mrs.  Young  welcomed 
us  all  to  her  neat  and  comfortable  parsonage.  Eight 
long  years  of  loneliness  had  not  quenched  the  ardor  with 
which  she  bade  adieu  to  her  happy  city  home  to  face 
the  dangers  and  wants  of  this  wild  northland.  We 
found  her  and  her  sweet  babes  subsisting  chiefly  on 
sturgeon,  with  a  very  limited  supply  of  the  poorest  flour. 
On  Saturday  we  took  our  departure,  and  reached  our 
destination  Sunday  morning — nineteen  days  from  Win- 
nipeg. 

If  the  labor  of  these  and  other  missionaries  had 
been  known  and  realized  in  Ontario  there  would 
not  have  been  reported  a  decrease  of  eight  thousand 
dollars  last  year.  Our  letters  will  be  few.  but  I  may 
send  some  Cree  Christmas  stories  for  the  little  folks.' 

John  Sunday,  converted  from  paganism  at  the  age  of 
forty,  and  for  forty  years  one  of  our  most  faithful  and 
effective  Indian  missionaries,  died  on  the  14th  of 
December,  1875,  being  then  about  eighty  years  of  age. 

Ernestown — 

'  We  have  in  course  of  erection  a  new  Methodist 
church  on  the  fourth  concession  of  Ernestown,  where, 
if  not  the  first,  at  least  the  second  Methodist  church  in 
Canada  was  built  in  1792.  There  are  few  old  families 
in  these  parts  that  have  not  some  of  their  number  sleep- 
ing in  the  old  church  grounds.  A  few  earnest  young 
men  have  undertaken  the  work  of  building  a  church 
28x40,  to  cost  $3,000.' 

Intelligence  of  revivals  continues  to  be  widespread 
and  most  gratifying.  Perhaps  never  did  the  Gitardion 
contain  richer  records  of  spiritual  work.  If  there  is 
joy  among  the  angels  "  over  one  sinner  that  repenteth  " 
how  great  should  be  the  joy  of  the  Church  below  over 
so  many. 

Appeals  to  the  hearts  and  consciences  of  the  people 
at  missionary  meetings  are  awakening  liberal  responses. 
Some  missions  are  making  vigorous  efforts  for  inde- 
pendence.    Three  gentlemen  in  Halifax  gave  $1,900. 

320 


HARMONIOUS    CO-OPERATION 

A  more  than  usually  successful  term  has  just  closed 
at  Mount  Allison  College  and  Academies.  The  new 
arrangement  of  the  Theological  Department  has  proved 
very  satisfactory  under  the  able  direction  of  Prof. 
Sterne.  Alma  College,  St.  Thomas,  the  youngest  in 
the  sisterhood  of  Ladies'  Colleges,  reports  a  successful 
year. 

The  Rev.  Geo.  McDougall  arrived  at  Bow  River  on 
the  22nd  of  October,  1875,  and  sends  Dr.  Wood  an  in- 
teresting account  of  his  visits  and  of  negotiations  held 
with  Indian  tribes  at  the  request  of  the  Government, 
in  preparation  for  a  treaty: 

'  Entrusted  with  a  commission  to  the  Crees  and  Plain 
Stonies,  I  have  visited  497  tents,  including  3,976  natives. 
All,  with  one  exception,  received  the  Government's  mes- 
sage with  gratitude,  and  will  anxiously  await  the  com- 
ing of  the  commissioners  next  August.  Near  the  con- 
fluence of  the  Red  Deer  and  Bow  Rivers  I  found  the 
Plain  Assiniboine  camp,  numbering  seventv  tents,  and 
speaking*  the  same  language  as  our  Mountain  Stonies. 
They  were  delighted  with  the  prospect  of  a  missionary. 
At  Victoria  I  met  Mr.  Warner,  twenty-three  years  ago 
my  Chairman ;  then  an  energetic,  efficient  minister  of 
Christ,  now  infirm  and  desiring  to  return  to  Ontario; 
but  he  will  spend  the  winter  among  the  large  body  of 
Indians  and  mixed-bloods  collected  here.  On  the  17th, 
at  Edmonton,  we  met  Mr,  Manning,  once  an  invalid, 
but,  braving  the  prairie  atmosphere  for  three  months, 
with  his  estimable  wife,  driving  their  own  team  and 
pitching  their  tent,  he  is  now  strong  for  the  Master's 
work.  On  the  22nd  we  reached  Morleyville,  a  mantle  of 
snow  cresting  the  venerable  summits,  but  the  valley 
fresh  and  green.  A  great  change  has  come  in  fifteen 
months.  Men  of  business  are  establishing  themselves 
on  the  banks  of  the  beautiful  river.'  A  stock  raiser  has 
arrived  with  several  hundred  cattle.  On  the  very  hills 
where  two  years  ago  I  saw  herds  of  buflfalo,  domestic 
cattle  are  grazing,  requiring  neither  shelter  nor  fodder 
all  the  yeaV  round.  The  mission  house,  25x45,  is  ap- 
proaching completion;  the  walls  of  a  church.  27x47,  are 

21  321 


■     METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

up,  and  a  school  has  been  built.  The  mounted  police 
have  broken  up  the  whiskey  trade;  the  frontier  rowdy 
and  the  bowie  knife  have  disappeared;  the  poor,  plun- 
dered Blackfeet  have  obtained  a  respite  from  the  spoiler, 
and  a  treaty  with  the  tribes  will  open  a  bright  future  for 
this  countrv.' 

On  the  26th  of  August,  1876,  the  Methodist  Church 
in  Port  Hope  was  burned.  It  was  built  when  there 
were  scarcely  members  enough  to  form  a  Trustee  Board 
and  had  been  in  constant  use  for  forty-two  years. 

'  The  corner-stone  of  a  new  church  was  laid  on  the 
2nd  of  September  following,  and  in  six  months  the 
spacious  edifice,  seating  about  fourteen  hundred,  was 
ready  for  dedication.  A  preliminary  service  was  held, 
of  which  the  Rev.  Dr.  Ives,  of  Auburn,  N.Y..  took 
charge.  The  entire  expenditure — $46,000 — was  provided 
for.  The  dedication  sermon  was  preached  by  the  Rev. 
Dr.  Wood  on  Sunday  morning,  March  5th,  1877.  The 
beautiful  church  was  filled  to  overflowing,  as  it  was  also 
in  the  evening,  when  the  pastor.  Rev.  E.  B.  Harper, 
preached.' 

The  death  of  Mr.  David  Torrance,  a  trustee  and  lib- 
eral supporter  of  Great  St.  James  St.  Church,  one  of  the 
merchant  princes  of  the  city  and  a  generous  helper  of 
every  good  cause,  will  be  deeply  felt  by  the  Methodism 
of  Montreal. 

Sault  Ste.  Marie— 

*  By  the  oflFer  of  $100  from  the  Missionary  Societv.  a 
tea  and  subscription,  the  debt  on  the  church  has  been 
paid  and  the  society  greatly  cheered.' — P.  D.  Will. 

Eollowing  closely  upon  the  last  vigorous  and  hopeful 
letter  of  the  Rev.  George  McDougall,  came  the  sad 
tidings  of  his  death.  A  few  extracts  from  a  letter  of 
Mrs.  McDougall's  will  give  particulars,  so  far  as  known : 

'MoRLEYViLLE,  Bow  RivER,  February  15th,  1876. 

'  My  Dear  Mother. — I  have  just  come  from  the  grave 

of  my  dear  husband,  who  was  buried  on  the   loth  of 

this  month.     It  is  very  sad  to  have  the  painful  dutv  of 

writing.     Four  weeks  aeo  he  left  home   with   our  son 

322 


HARMONIOUS    CO-OPERATION 

John,  his  nephew  ]\Ioses,  and  two  Indians,  to  hunt  buf- 
falo, some  thirty  miles  away.  The  snow  being  deep  and 
the  weather  cold,  they  had  little  success  till  the  next 
Monday,  when  late  in  the  afternoon  they  killed  six. 
When  these  were  loaded  on  the  sleds  thev  started  for 
the  tent,  nearly  four  miles  distant.  Having  left  M"opes 
at  the  tent  unwell,  his  uncle  was  anxious  about  him,  and, 
saying  he  would  hurry  on  and  have  a  good  fire  ready,  he 
rode  off  at  a  gallop.  When  the  others  reached  the  tent, 
about  lo  o'clock,  they  found  only  ]\Ioses,  asleep,  and  the 
fire  about  out.  They  loaded  their  guns,  went  to  the 
highest  places,  and  fired  a  number  of  times,  but  to  no 
purpose.  Tuesday  from  early  dawn  thev  were  searching 
in  every  direction.  With  the  aid  of  the  mounted  police 
the  search  was  continued.  A  boy  was  found  who  said 
he  had  seen  a  white  man  on  a  horse  Tuesday  afternoon 
riding  round  in  a  circle,  then  getting  off,  kneeling  down 
and  getting  on  his  horse  again.  Saturday  the  horse 
came  to  a  tent,  near  the  road  homeward,  without  anv 
saddle.  All  these  days  I  was  sixty  miles  down  the 
river,  with  our  daughter  Nellie.  The  first  Sabbath  I 
was  there  my  dear  husband  was  with  the  mounted 
police,  preached  twice  for  them,  then  left  for  home  so 
well,  and  I  was  to  meet  him  in  two  weeks  at  the  police 
station.  I  went  and  there  first  heard  the  sad  news. 
But  still  there  was  some  hope,  and  the  search  was  kept 
up.  Finally  the  body  was  found  and  brought  to  the 
tent.  He  was  found  lying  as  if  some  kind  hand  had 
been  there,  one  hand  on  his  breast,  the  other  on  the  side, 
his  eyes  and  lips  closed,  a  smile  on  his  countenance. 
He  must  have  had  great  presence  of  mind  when  he  lay 
down  to  die.  We  feel  assured  that  Jesus  was  with  him 
in  the  trying  hour.  It  is  generally  supposed  that  he 
became  snow-blind,  but  it  is  a  mystery.' 

Westminster  Memorial  Tablets — 

*  A  verv  interesting  service  was  held  in  the  grand  old 
Minster  last  Thursday,  when  the  Wesley  Memorial 
Tablet  was  unveiled  by  the  Very  Rev.  Dean  Stanley, 
in  presence  of  some  three  hundred  Wesleyan  ministers 
and  laymen.  The  late  lamented  Lady  Stanley  was  to 
have  unveiled  the  Tablet,  had  it  pleased  Providence  to 
spare  her  life.     Nothing  could  be  more  fitting  than  the 

323 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

hearty  and  well  chosen  words  of  the  Dean,  who  looked 
sadly  thin  and  worn.  He  explained  that  but  for  the 
burden  of  grief  under  which  he  suffered  he  would  have 
celebrated  the  unveiling  by  a  discourse  on  the  Wesleys, 
but  would  do  so  at  some  future  time.' 

The  white  marble  tablet  is  two  feet  nine  inches  wide 
and  about  eight  feet  high.  The  upper  part  bears  the 
simple  record : 

John  WksliSy,  M.A., 
Born  June  17,  1703;  Died  March  2,  1791. 

Charles  Wesley,  M.A., 
Born  December  18,  1708;  Died  March  29,  1788. 

Within  a  sunken  circle  are  n\edallion  profiles,  life  size, 
of  the  two  brothers,  representing  them  in  the  maturity 
of  hfe. 

Underneath  are  inscribed  the  dying  words  of  John 
Wesley : 

"the  best  oe  all  is,  god  is  with  us." 

Underneath  is  sculptured  John  Wesley  preaching  on 
his  father's  tombstone,  with  some  fifty  figures  repre- 
senting his  rustic  hearers  and  groups  of  his  "  helpers," 
in  the  background. 

Next  is  inscribed  Wesley's  declaration : 

"  I  LOOK  UPON  ALL  THE  WORLD  AS  MY  PARISH  "; 

also   Charles  Wesley's  exultant  exclamation : 

"  God  buries  His  zvorkinen,  but  carries  on  His  zuork." 

Thus  does  time  win  acknowledgment  for  men  who 
were  not  ashamed  to  suffer  scorn  for  the  name  of  the 
Lord  Jesus. 

Revival  successes  continue  in  the  Eastern  Confer- 
ences ;  also  in  Bermuda  and  Prince  Edward. 

Major  John  Lawrence  was  born  in  the  township  of 

324 


HARMONIOUS    CO-OPERATION 

Augusta,  on  the   12th  of  July,   1786,  and  died  on  the 
2nd  of  January,   1876,  in  his  ninetieth  year. 

'  His  mother  was  the  widow  of  PhiHp  Embury.  He 
married  Margaret,  second  daughter  of  Capt.  John  Dul- 
mage,  and  after  nearly  seventy  years  of  married  life, 
she  survives  him.  He  made  a  profession  of  religion 
in  early  life  and  for  many  years  was  a  class  leader.' 

Margaret  Crawford,  daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Andrew  Crawford,  '  came  with  her  father  and  his  large 
family  of  two  sons  and  eight  daughters  from  County 
Armagh,  Ireland,  to  Little  York — now  Toronto — in  18 18, 
and  was  one  of  the  early  members  in  the  little  frame 
church  on  King  street,  built  that  year.  In  1823  she  be- 
came the  wife  of  Mr.  John  Sanderson,  who  had  come 
from  England  three  years  before.  On  his  little  farm  of 
twelve  acres,  at  the  corner  of  Yonge  and  Elm  streets,  was 
a  huge  spreading  elm  tree  in  the  front  lawn,  giving  name 
to  the  street.  After  some  years  Mr.  Sanderson  sold  his 
town  property  and  bought  several  hundred  acres  of 
bush  land  twenty  miles  distant,  where  the  family  helped 
to  form  and  maintain  the  Harrison  appointment,  after- 
wards a  part  of  the  Brampton  Circuit.  On  retiring 
from  farming,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Sanderson  moved  to 
Woodstock,  where  lived  a  daughter  and  son-in-law, 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Vickerman  Holtby.  There  they  died,  he 
on  the  24th  of  February,  1873,  at  the  age  of  83  years, 
and  Mrs.  Sanderson  on  the  29th  of  March,  1876,  aged 
75  years.' 

The  writer  of  these  volumes  transcribes  the  above 
notice  in  grateful  remembrance  of  his  revered  parents 
and  of  his  earliest  home.  The  little  cottage  and  the 
native  elm  tree  bravely  held  their  own  while  the  original 
owners  lived,  but  were  finally  compelled  to  surrender 
to  the  onward  march  and  insatiable  demands  of  busi- 
ness and  building.  For  no  other  tree  has  the  writer 
pled  so  sympathetically — 

*  Woodman,  spare  that  tree ! 
For  once  it  sheltered  me.' 

325 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Miss  E.  A.  Barrett,  teacher  at  White  Fish  Lake, 
writes,  Dec,  17th,  1875 : 

*I  have  been  seven  months  without  a  letter  from  home. 
Mr,  Steinhaur's  suppHes,  ordered  from  Winnipeg  last 
spring,  may  not  be  here  before  next  summer.  A  little 
flour,  rice,  raisins,  sugar,  tea,  salt  and  spice  constitute 
about  the  sum  total  of  our  imports.  I  like  the  barley 
bread  very  well,  and  I  fancy  our  butter,  potatoes  and 
turnips  taste  better  than  in  Ontario.  Fish  and  rabbits 
are  plentiful.  We  get  pemmican,  buffalo,  moose  or 
bear  meat;  and  eggs  from  wild  fowl.  Our  garden  was 
a  failure  from  bad  seed.  Horses  stay  out  all  winter. 
Barley  sowed  on  the  14th  of  May  was  cut  in  the  end 
of  August,  and  potatoes  planted  20th  of  May  were  fit 
for  use  in  July.  We  lack  many  things,  but  are  relieved 
by  the  arrival  of  a  box  of  books.  I  spent  my  four-weeks' 
vacation  visiting  Edmonton,  Victoria  and  Lac  la  Biche. 
My  tears  were  not  far  away  w^hen  I  sat  down  in  a  par- 
lor and  saw  once  more  pictures,  melodeon,  carpet  and 
sofa.  About  two  hundred  sat  down  to  the  grand 
Christmas  dinner  provided  by  Mr.  Steinhaur  and  two 
or  three  others.  Then  came  sports  for  the  men,  a  con- 
cert and  speeches.  Our  Quarterly  Meeting  will  be  re- 
membered to  all  eternity — such  presence  and  power  of 
the  Holy  Ghost.' 

The  Rev,  George  Young,  when  about  leaving  Winni- 
peg after  eight  years  of  arduous  labor,  was  presented 
with  an  address  and  purse  in  acknowledgment  of  his 
patriotic  services  during  the  troubles  of  1869-70,  and 
his  many  helpful  contributions  to  the  welfare  of  the  Red 
River  Settlements. 

In  a  letter  from  Yeddo,  March  22nd,  1876,  Rev. 
Geo.  Cochran  tells  of  his  pleasure  in  being  the  pastor 
of  a  church  with  fifteen  members,  and  one  of  his  young 
men — Mr.  Hiraiwa — preaching  a  sermon  that  might  do 
for  the  Metropolitan,  and  appeals  for  more  missionaries. 
In  answer  to  these  appeals  the  Rev.  Geo.  M.  Meacham, 
M.A.,  and  the  Rev.  C.  S.  Eby  were  appointed. 

A  resolution  expressing  very  high  appreciation  of  the 
326 


HARMONIOUS    CO-OPERATION 

Rev.  G.  M.  Meacham's  labors  during  the  last  two 
years  in  Dundas  was  adopted  by  the  Official  Board. 
Donations  of  $ioo  each  were  presented  to  Mrs. 
Meacham  and  her  sister,  Miss  Moulton,  in  acknowl- 
edgment of  their  many  helpful  services. 

The  Algoma  District — 

'From  the  south-eastern  part  of  Manitoulin  Island  to 
Fort  Francis,  on  the  Dawson  route  towards  Manitoba, 
the  missions  extend  about  800  miles  and  are  widely 
separated.  Fort  Francis  is  an  old  Hudson  Bay  post, 
and  long  known  as  Rainy  River  or  Lac  la  Pluie,  purely 
an  Indian  mission.  After  being  left  vacant  for  a  time, 
the  Rev.  Arthur  B.  Hames  was  sent  to  investigate  con- 
ditions, and  judging  that  it  must  become  a  place  of  im- 
portance, he  remained  and  reports  brighter  prospects 
for  the  future.  At  Prince  Arthur's  Landing,  the  mis- 
sionary has  a  centre  with  about  six  or  eight  hundred 
inhabitants,  a  good  church  and  parsonage,  a  Sunday 
School  and  fair  congregation.  He  also  has  several  out- 
posts. Expectations  of  a  great  influx  of  population  at  Fort 
William,  a  railway  terminus,  have  not  yet  been  realized, 
but  Bro.  Halstead  keeps  charge  of  the  ground,  and, 
like  other  brethren  occupying  these  picket  stations  of 
our  missionary  army,  has  large  claims  on  the  prayers  and 
sympathy  of  the  Church.  Silver  Islet  is  a  mining  settle- 
ment, -limited  in  extent,  demanding  the  continuous  plod- 
ding efforts  of  Rev.  Robt.  Johnson.  Along  the  north  shore 
of  Lake  Superior  we  find  occasional  mining  locations,  trad- 
ing posts  or  fishing  stations,  mostly  deserted  in  the  winter, 
but  on  suitable  occasions  having  the  ministrations  of  an 
Indian  missionary.  At  Sault  Ste.  Marie  Rev.  Phineas 
D.  Will  has  a  good  church  and  parsonage,  a  consider- 
able congregation  and  hopeful  membership.  In  regard 
to  Garden  River  somebody  blundered;  the  missionary 
was  withdrawn  and  the  people  advised  to  unite  with 
another  church.  The  resuming  of  the  work  without  a 
resident  missionary  was  not  a  success.  When  I  came 
here  the  people  seemed  to  have  lost  faith  in  us,  but  we 
have  an  interestmg  Indian  congregation.  The  mis- 
sionary at  Bruce  Mines  writes  of  improved  spiritual 
conditions  and  other  settlements  which  call  for  atten- 
tion—at   St.    Joseph's   Island,    Thessalon    River,    Otter 

327 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

Tail  Lake,  etc.  A  hundred  miles  away  we  reach  Little 
Current.  On  some  of  the  islands  and  at  tradin^^  posts 
are  a  number  of  Indians  and  French  half-breeds,  mostly 
under  the  influence  of  Jesuit  priests.  I  visited  some  of 
them  last  surnmer,  but  found  them  addicted  to  their 
old  ways.  Sunday,  like  other  days,  being  spent  in 
fishing  and  gaming,  only  a  few  would  be  gathered  for 
religious  service.  Yet  I  think  good  could  be  done 
among  them.  From  Little  Current  the  missionary 
reaches  several  points,  but  the  population  is  sparse  and 
the  work  difficult.  From  Manitowaning  the  roads  are 
very  bad,  the  settlements  far  apart  and  the  members 
few.    The  missionary  had  to  build  a  house  to  live  in. 

'  On  the  north  shores  of  these  lakes  there  are  probably 
from  one  to  two  thousand  pagan  Indians.  On  every 
field  in  the  District  much  hard  work  is  being  done  and 
the  brethren  are  worthy  the  prayerful  attention  of  the 
whole   Church.' — Thomas    Williams,    Chairman. 

The  progress  of  Kent,  Essex  and  adjacent  Counties 
was  somewhat  impeded  by  heavy  hardwood  timber 
and  the  lack  of  drainage.  As  these  hindrances  to  agri- 
culture were  overcome  these  portions  of  Ontario 
proved  to  be  some  of  the  best  in  the  Province.  The 
growth  of  Chatham,  Windsor,  Dresden,  Ridgetown, 
Blenheim,  Leamington  and  other  towns  indicate  the 
general  advance  in  population,  while  the  fine  climate 
and  rich  soil  unite  in  making  these  western  counties 
the  very  garden  of  Canada.  Here  also  has  Methodism 
struck  her  roots  deeply.  When  the  first  District  Meet- 
ing was  held,  under  the  Chairmanship  of  the  Rev. 
Edmund  Shepherd,  in  1855,  seven  circuits  comprised 
the  ground  now  embraced  in  the  Chatham,  Sarnia  and 
part  of  the  St.  Thomas  Districts;  and  the  membership 
then  reported  —  863  —  has  grown  to  3,330.  Among 
many  of  those  early  pioneer  Methodists  will  be  remem- 
bered Mr.  Samuel  Proctor  and  his  wife,  of  Sarnia 
Township.  Mr.  Proctor,  a  veteran  of  the  Grenadier 
Guards,  was  wounded  in  the  Battle  of  Waterloo,  and  a 
Bible  in  his  pocket  saved  him  from  death.     In  his  new 

328 


HARAIONIOUS    CO-OPERATION 


home  he  became  a  Methodist  class-leader,  and  a  grand- 
daughter— Miss  Margaret  Proctor — is  the  wife  of  Chan- 
cellor Burwash. 

'  In  1874  Simcoe  St.  Church,  Hamilton,  was  set  oft" 
as  an  independent  station.  The  church  was  small,  but 
there  was  room  and  to  spare.  The  district  was  poor, 
the  members  few  and  the  Sunday  School  almost  the 
only  hopeful  feature.  When  the  Rev.  Joshua  P.  Lewis 
entered  upon  his  labors  the  prospect  was  far  from  en- 
couraging. But  with  faith  in  persevering  effort,  he 
went  to  work.  Every  nook  and  corner  was  visited.' 
Into  homes  where  the  foot  of  minister  had  never  stepped 
went  our  indefatigable  pastor.  Special  services  were 
commenced  and  continued  for  ten  weeks,  with  little 
outside  help.  Scores  were  gathered  in.  An  impetus 
was  given  to  Sunday  School  work  beyond  anything 
in  the  past.  The  superintendency  becoming  vacant, 
the  pastor  himself  took  the  position  and  has  kept  it. 
The  lack  of  teachers  was  supplied  by  his  unwearied 
activity.  Class  leaders  were  wanted  and  the  positions 
of  two  or  three  were  supplied  in  the  person  of  Mr. 
Lewis  himself.' — J.  G. 

New  churches^  have  been  recently  built  in  London 
Township,  Bell  River  Road,  Bethel,  Guelph,  Napanee 
Mills,  Woodslee,  Montreal,  Lennoxville,  Port  Hope, 
Paris,  Thamesville,  Lowville,  etc. 


Berkeley  Street  Methodist  Church,  Toronto. 
329 


CHAPTER  XXV. 
1876-7. 

THE  ENGLISH  AND   OTHER  CONFERENCES. 

Conferences  —  England  —  Dr.  Ryerson  —  Camp-meetings  —  New- 
Churches — Circuits — M.  E.  Conference  —  Corson  —  Confer- 
ences, 1877  —  Japan  —  Do  Justly — Coleman — Conventions — 
Union — Missions — Churches — Manly  —  Dr.  Ford  —  South  — 
French — Australia — College — Red  River — Primitives. 

The  London  Conference  assembled  in  St.  Catharines, 
June  7th,  1876.  The  Rev.  George  R.  Sanderson  was 
elected  President  and  the  Rev.  Wm.  S.  Griffin,  Secretary. 

Received  into  full  connection — John  T.  Smith. 
Charles  W.  Hawkins,  B.A.,  George  A.  Schram,  Thomas 
Gee,  Thomas  R.  Fydell,  Robt.  J.  Husband,  George 
Daniel,  Robert  Burns. 

Their  reception  was  moved  by  Rev.  Wm.  S.  Griffin 
and  seconded  by  Rev.  Robert  Fowler,  M.D. 

The  ordination   sermon    was    preached    by    the    ex- 
President,  Rev.  John  A.  Williams.     The  Rev.   George 
Douglas,  D.D.,  LL.D.,  preached  in  the  evening. 
Died — John  B.   Keagey,   B.A.,   Sept.    ist,   1875,  aged  ^/ 
years. 
William  Herkimer,  Oct.  3rd,  1875,  aged  75  years. 
Wm.  W.  Graham,  Jan  15th,  1876,  aged  35  years. 

At  the  missionary  meeting,  on  Monday  evening,  ad- 
dresses were  given  by  the  Revs.  Charles  S.  Eby  and 
George  M.  Meacham,  M.A.,  the  newly-appointed  mis- 
sionaries to  Japan. 

The    Conference   closed   on   Wednesday   evening. 

The  Toronto  Conference  was  held  in  Peterborough, 
commencing  on  the   14th  of    June,    1876.      The    Rev. 

330 


THE  ENGLISH  AND  OTHER  CONFERENCES 

Wellington  Jeflfers,  D.D.,  was  elected  President  and  the 
Rev.  Wm.  Briggs,  Secretary. 

Mr.  W.  E.  Sanford,  of  Hamilton,  was  introduced,  and 
informed  the  Conference  that  the  late  Mrs.  Eliza  Ann 
Jackson,  in  addition  to  former  gifts,  had  left  to  the 
Missionary  Society  $10,000  and  to  the  Theological 
Chair  in  Victoria  College,  $10,000.  These  munificent 
bequests  were  acknowledged  in  suitable  resolutions. 

The  Rev.  John  B.  Manly,  Agent  of  the  French-Can- 
adian Missionary  Society,  was  introduced  and  addressed 
the  Conference. 

Received  iiiio  full  connection  —  J.  W.  Annis,  B.A., 
Samuel  McCauley,  Thomas  Grandy,  Edward  Hill,  Wm. 
J.  Rutledge,  Thomas  J.  Snowdon,  'Wm.  E.  Smith, 
Charles  Langford,  John  Pepper,  B.A.,  John  McCarroll, 
Richard   Strachan. 

The  reception  of  the  young  men  was  moved  by  the 
Rev.  Ed.  H.  Dewart  and  seconded  by  the  Rev.  Thomas 
W.  Jeffrey. 

The  President  preached  the  ordination  sermon,  and 
the  Rev.  George  Young,  of  Winnipeg,  preached  in  the 
evening.  A  resolution  was  adopted  that  hereafter  the 
ordination  sermon  be  preached  by  the  ex-President. 

The  following  ministers  died  during  the  year : 

John  Sunday,  Dec.  14th,  1875,  aged  80  years. 

George  McDougall,  Jan.  23rd,  1876,  aged  56  years. 

John  W.  Dockstader,  Feb.  26th,  1876,  aged  35  years. 

Orrin  Whitcomb,  April  12th,  1876.  aged  71  years. 

The  Rev.  Peter  Campbell  was  one  of  the  speakers  at 
the  missionary  meeting. 

'  On  the  13th  of  May,  1868,  I  left  for  the  North- 
West.  The  distance  to  Winnipeg  then  seemed  great, 
though  now  shrivelled  to  ten  days.  Thence  to  Edmon- 
ton, a  thousand  miles,  on  foot,  walking  by  the  head 
of  one  ox  and  leading  another.    We  slept  out  sixty-one 

331 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

nights.  The  prairie  soil  was  exceedingly  rich  and  the 
grass  most  nutritious.  Horses  turned  out  poor  would 
in  three  weeks  be  rolling  in  fat.  Coal  beds  seem  almost 
inexhaustible.  Flour  fifty  dollars  a  barrel,  sugar  sixty 
cents  and  pemmican  twenty  cents  a  pound.  We  have 
the  hope  of  wheat,  certainly  of  barley  and  potatoes,  and 
pretty  sure  of  oats.  Among  natural  products  are 
buffaloes,  antelopes,  black  flies  and  mosquitoes.' 

The  speaker  gave  some  thrilling  scenes  of  Indian 
enmity  and  of  famine,  when  hunters  were  compelled 
to  eat  their  horses  and  even  their  dogs,  and  told  of  the 
labors  of  Evans,  Rundle,  Woolsey,  McDougall  and 
others. 

The  Rev.  George  Young  spoke  of  the  openings  in 
the  great  North-West — some  waiting  twenty  years  for 
the  fulfilment  of  promises — his  experiences,  especially 
during  the  Riel  Rebellion,  the  land  policy  of  the  Gov- 
ernment and  the  urgent  demand  for  missionary  rein- 
forcement. 

The  Montreal  Conference  began  in  Quebec,  June  2ist, 
1876,  President — Rev.  Wm.  Scott;  Secretary — Rev. 
William  J.  Hunter. 

Into  full  connection — Wm.  J.  Crothers,  M.A.,  Wm. 
Philp,  Moses  Scott,  Nassau  B.  Topping,  Jas.  Hender- 
son, Edward  De  Gruchy,  Jas.  G.  Crozier,  Samuel 
Shibley,  Wm.  S.  Jamieson,  B.A.,  Wm.  K.  Shortt,  B.A., 
Albert  De  Long. 

Nine  young  men  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — James  A.  Gordon,  Aug.  26th,  1875,  aged  39  years. 
John  Scott,  Dec.  30th,  1875,  aged  44  years. 

An  increase  of  600  members  was  reported. 

The  Conference  presented  an  address  to  His  Excel- 
lency Lord  Dufferin,  the  Governor-General. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Tuesday. 

The  Nova  Scotia  Conference  was  held  at  Windsor, 
commencing  on  the  21st  of  June,  1876.  President — Rev. 
Robert    A.   Temple ;    Secretary  —  Rev.    S.   F.   Huestis. 

332 


THE  ENGLISH  AND  OTHER  CONFERENCES 

Seven  young  men  were  ordained  and  six  were  received 
on  probation.  The  net  increase  of  members  was  about 
600.  The  services  throughout  were  intensely  interest- 
ing. 

The  Conference  of  New  Brunswick  and  Prince 
Edward  Island  was  commenced  on  the  22nd  of  June, 
1876,  in  St.  Stephen,  N.  B.  President— Rev.  Robt. 
Duncan ;  Secretary — Rev.  Howard  Sprague.  The  ordi- 
nation sermon  was  preached  by  the  President,  and  four 
young  men  were  ordained. 

The  increase  of  members  was  1,183. 

The  Rev.  Richard  Weddall  died  in  1876,  at  the  age 
of  64  years. 

The  Newfoundland  Conference^  was  held  in  St. 
John's.  The  Rev.  James  Dove  was  chosen  President, 
and  the  Rev.  John  Goodison  Secretary.  Four  young 
men  were  ordained.  The  demand  for  men  was  beyond 
the  supply,  and  general  prosperity  was  reported. 

Ontario  Ladies'  College — The  examinations  in  chem- 
istry were  conducted  by  Prof.  Kirkland,  M.A.,  of  the 
Normal  School,  Toronto.  The  students  received  from 
74  to  84  per  cent.,  and  the  Professor  reported : 

'  I  was  very  much  pleased  with  their  papers.  ,  .  .  Had 
they  been  up  for  examination  at  the  University  they 
would  all  have  received  first  class.' 

The  Dundas  Wesleyan  Institute  had  no  boarders 
and  12  day  students  during  the  year.  The  session  closed 
on  the  22nd  of  June,  when  prizes  were  awarded  by  the 
Principal,  Rev.  E.  B,  Ryckman,  M.A. 

The  Revs.  George  M.  Meacham,  M.A.,  and  Charles 
S.  Eby,  M.A.,  left  August  ist,  1876,  for  Japan. 

The  Revs.  Dr.  Ryerson  and  David  Savage  were 
worthily  received  by  the  English  Wesleyan  and  New 
Connexion  Conferences.  Eorty-three  years  ago  Dr. 
Ryerson  visited  the  British  Conference  in  a  similar 
capacity. 

333 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  Recorder's  graphic  delineation :  "  The  Doc- 
tor's personal  appearance  is  very  prepossessing — gray 
hair,  fine  healthy  complexion,  a  gentle  eye,  a  full, 
emotional  voice,  dressed  in  the  style  of  the  '  fine  old 
English  gentleman,'  with  a  refreshing  display  of  linen, 
clean  and  white.  One  scarcely  knows  which  to  admire 
the  most — the  simplicity  of  the  man,  his  well-furnished 
intellect,  or  his  practical  good  sense ;  which  most  to 
wonder  at — the  real  progress  which  has  been  made  in 
this  one  lifetime  or  the  boundless  possibilities  of  the 
future.  It  is  something  to  have  rocked  the  cradle  of 
an  Empire  Church.  The  audience  was  several  times 
deeply  moved  by  the  Doctor's  allusions  to  the  memories 
of  the  past,  but  most  of  all  when  at  the  conclusion  of 
his  address  he  said — '  Farewell ! ' — with  a  tearful  ex- 
pression of  his  own  rejoicing  in  the  hope  of  eternal 
life." 

The  corner-stone  of  a  new  Methodist  church,  in  West 
Belleville,  was  laid  on  the  i6th  of  August,  1876,  by  J. 
H.  Meacham,  Esq.,  and  addresses  were  delivered  by 
the  Hon.  Billa  Flint,  Thomas  Mills  and  others. 

The  Missionary  Society  is  hampered  by  a  consider- 
able debt — the  expenditures  of  the  past  year  having 
exceeded  the  income  by  $38,000.  In  justice  to  the  mis- 
sionaries employed,  retrenchment  seems  impossible,  and 
fresh  demands  are  being  made.  The  only  hope  of  relief 
seems  to  be  in  increased  income,  and  to  insure  this  the 
treasurers  issued  an  earnest  appeal. 

More  camp-meetings  are  being  held  during  this  sum- 
mer than  for  some  years  past.  Grimsby,  Rama,  Man- 
vers,  Fenella,  Merrickville,  and  other  places  have  had 
seasons  of  abundant  blessing. 

The  opening  of  the  new  Dominion  Church,  Ottawa. 
Nov.  15th,  1876,  was  an  occasion  of  deep  interest,  not 
to  the  Capital  City  alone,  but  to  the  Dominion  at  large. 
The  total  expenditure  was  about  $50,000,  toward  which 

334 


THE  ENGLISH  AND  OTHER  CONFERENCES 

contributions  had  been  received  from  many  outside 
places,  this  being  considered  a  representative  church. 
Prominent  men  of  the  city,  the  Government,  and  from 
distant  points  were  present.  The  Rev.  Dr.  Ives,  of 
Auburn,  N.  Y.,  preached  the  opening  sermon.  He  asked 
for  $16,000,  and  over  $20,000  were  pledged.  The 
church  is  built  of  stone,  99x105,  with  tower,  when  com- 
pleted, 186  feet  high. 

The  Annual  Meeting  of  the  Missionary  Society  was 
held  in  St.  John,  N.  B.  The  large  debt  and  constantly 
increasing  demands  taxed  the  wisdom  of  the  Committee. 
Special  arrangements  were  made  for  wiping  out  the 
debt.  With  great  reluctance  the  estimates  were  again 
allowed  to  exceed  the  income. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Charbonnel  reports  the  erection  of 
buildings  in  Sherbrooke  for  a  French  Institute  at  a  cost 
of  $2,800,  with  a  debt  of  $1,300,  towards  which  he  asks 
contributions. 

Montreal  Anniversaries — '  Our  series  of  missionary 
meetings  has  been  remarkable  for  deputations,  attendance, 
influence  and  financial  results.  The  collections  are  about 
double  of  last  year,  and.  the  givings  at  the  tea-meeting 
were  princely,  so  that  we  are  already  in  advance  of  last 
year  by  over  $1,000.  If  similar  willingness  prevails 
throughout  the  country  the  income  might  easily  reach 
$250,000.' — Leonard  Gaetz. 

New  churches  have  been  opened  in  Acton,  Petrolea, 
Bolton,  Dorking,  Bond  Head,  Primrose,  Sackville,  N.  B., 
Centralia,  Rodney,  Lansdowne,  Omemee,  Goodwood, 
London,  Spencerville,  Brockville,  Mono  Road,  Under- 
wood, Franklin  Centre,  Plattsville,  Bethany,  etc. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson  writes  from  London,  Dec.  14th, 
1876: 

"  The  energy,  earnestness,  and  simple  spirituality  of 
the  Wesleyan  pulpits,  the  revival  and  aggressive  spirit 
of  both  ministers  and  people  appear  to  me  in  advance 
of  anything  I  witnessed  in  former  visits  to  England." 

Father  Isaac  Van   Norman,  of  Nelson,  who  died  on 

335 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

the  15th  of  Feb.,  1877,  at  the  age  of  93  years,  was  said 
to  he  the  oldest  member  in  Canadian  Methodism.  He 
came  from  the  State  of  New  York  when  a  boy,  was 
converted  in  1800  and  was  a  member  of  the  Methodist 
Church  for  at  least  75  years.  He  enjoyed  the  minis- 
trations of  Anson,  Sawyer,  Bangs,  Jewell,  Keeler, 
Ryan,  Case,  Whitehead  and  others  of  our  early  minis- 
ters. His  eldest  son,  the  Rev.  Daniel  C.  Van  Norman, 
LL.D.,  was  a  Professor  in  Victoria  College  and  after- 
wards Principal  of  the  Hamilton  Ladies'  Academy. 

Ten  new  Methodist  churches  have  been  built  in  the 
County  of  Essex  during  the  last  two  years. 

The  Rev.  George  R.  Sanderson,  President  of  the 
London  Conference,  writes : 

*  Gracious  revivals  are  in  progress  on  most  of  the 
circuits  of  the  Niagara  District.' 

The  Rev.  Richard  Clarke,  of  Norwood,  reports  the 
revival  there  as  one  of  the  most  extensive  and  glorious. 
in  proportion  to  the  population,  ever  witnessed  in  this 
land.  For  twelve  weeks  the  work  went  on  with  unabated 
interest  and  the  conversions  were  estimated  at  from  three 
to  four  hundred. 

At  Newburgh  over  one  hundred  professed  conversion 
and  in  Belleville  over  five  hundred. 

'  Previous  to  that  revival  under  Crossley  and  Hunter 
we  had  about  150  members;  since  then  four  or  five 
times  as  many.' — Wm.  Johnson. 

At  Mount  Forest  over  one  hundred  have  been 
received  on  trial ;  at  Paris  about  one  hundred  and  fifty ; 
at  Hanover  about  seventy ;  in  Dundas  St.,  London,  over 
fifty ;  at  Tara,  over  forty ;  at  Bath,  over  fifty ;  at  Colborne, 
eighty-seven ;    at  Preston, 

'  the  number  of  persons  beginning  a  new  life  is  unusually 
large  and  the  benefits  of  the  work  have  extended  beyond 
our  congregation.' 

Clinton — '  We  have  had  wonderful  displays  of  con- 
verting power — the   membership   nearly  doubled.' 

336 


THE  ENGLISH  AND  OTHER  CONFERENCES 

The  Holstein  Mission — 
'  is  composed  of  tlie  late  New  Connexion  Egremont 
Mission  and  part  of  the  Wesle3'an  Mount  Forest  Mis-^ 
sion.  Five  of  our  six  appointments  are  in  Egremont — 
a  township  improving  fast.  The  year  has  been  one  of 
much  trial  but  of  wonderful  blessing  and  ingathering,' 

The  Ontario  Annual  Conference  of  the  Canada  Metho- 
dist Episcopal  Church  held  its  fifteenth  session  in 
Brampton,  Bishop  Carman  presiding.  The  Rev.  James 
Curtz  was  re-elected  Secretary.  There  are  three  Dis- 
tricts and  about  fifty  circuits  supplied  by  about  ninety 
preachers. 

The  examinations  and  closing  exercises  of  the  Wes- 
leyan  College,  Stanstead,  indicate  a  successful  year. 
The  Baccalaureate  sermon  was  preached  by  the  Rev. 
Alexander  Hardie,  M.A.,  on  the  loth  of  June. 

The  closing  exercises  of  the  Hamilton  Female  College 
were  exceedingly  interesting. 

Many  visitors  from  a  distance  attended  the  concert 
and  general  reunion  at  Ontario  Ladies'  College.  The 
essays  read  by  the  graduating  class,  the  awarding  of 
prizes  and  other  exercises  afiforded  the  highest  satisfac- 
tion. The  corner-stone  of  a  large  additional  building 
was  laid  by  Dr.  Ryerson. 

Reports  of  District  meetings  tell  of  general  progress 
in  all  departments  of  Church  work.  New  churches 
have  been  built  in  Cressy.  Kincardine,  Brussels,  George- 
town, Newcomb,  West  Belleville,  Mount  Forest, 
Stewartown,  Ridgetown,  Iroquois,  Alma,  Woodstock, 
Owen  Sound,  Blair's,  Sydenham  Mills,  Allumette  Island, 
Fraserville,  Seguin,  Fenelon  Falls,  Durham,  Chesley, 
Arkwright,  etc. 

The  Rev.  Robert  Corson  writes : 

'  I  am  in  my  85ith  year.  My  health  is  improved. 
Since  Conference  I  have  preached  forty-five  times,  read 
thirty-three  books,  attended  thirty-eight  prayer-meetings 
and  made   153  religious  visits.     When  I  was  appointed 

22  337 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

to  the  Long  Point  Circuit,  in  1827,  we  travelled  through 
ten  townships,  where  now  there  are  eighteen  circuits.  In 
1828  I  was  sent  alone  to  Whitby ;  twenty  appointments 
and  no  chapels.  Now  there  are  fifteen  circuits  and 
about  forty  chapels.' 

The  Rev.  John  McDougall  writes  of  attending  by 
request  the  gathering  of  the  Indian  tribes,  when  treaties 
were  formally  signed  by  Governor  Morris  and  the 
Chiefs,  and  reports  favorably  of  the  state  of  the  work 
at  several  stations. 

The  Rev.  Henry  Steinhaur  finds  abundant  reason  for 
gratitude  and  encouragement. 

Mr.  Sinclair,  teacher  at  Victoria  Mission,  says: 

'  Under  the  zealous  efforts  of  our  missionary — Rev. 
John  Walton — affairs  generally  are  looking  more  hope- 
ful.' 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Crosby,  of  Port  Simpson,  writes: 
'  Our  work  here  is  doing  well.     The  church  was  well 
filled  all  winter;  two  new  classes  formed,  twenty  adults 
baptized  recently  and  many  eager  to  learn.' 

The  Rev.  John  Semmens,  of  Beren  River,  '  made 
several  long  trips  during  the  winter  and  was  much 
encouraged  by  congregations  of  25  to  100,  and  ten  added 
to  the  Church.' 

The  London  Conference  began  in  Guelph  on  the  6th 
of  June,  1877.  The  Rev.  James  Gray  was  elected 
President  and  the  Rev.  J.  B.  Clarkson,  M.A.,  Secretary. 

The  Congregational  Union  met  in  the  same  town  and 
an  interchange  of  delegations  was  enjoyed. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson  was  requested  to  write  and 
publish  a  series  of  papers  on  early  Canadian  Methodistn. 

Into  full  connection — ^Wm.  Baugh,  Charles  C.  Couzens, 
Wm.  Godwin,  Joseph  Guest,  Adam  Ira  Snyder,  James 
Watson,  James  Livingstone,  Richard  Hobbs,  Joseph 
Ward,  Wm.  W.  Spading,  Wm.  Kettlewell,  Charles  R. 
Morrow.  The  Rev.  John  A.  Williams  moved  and  the 
Rev.  Hugh  Johnston  seconded  their  reception. 

The  Rev.  James  P.  Bell  was  received  from  the  Primi- 

338 


THE  ENGLISH  AND  OTHER  CONFERENCES 

tive    Methodist    Church.      The    ordination    sermon    was 
preached  by  the  Rev.  Joseph  H.  Robinson. 

Fifteen  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 

Died — Claudius  Byrne,  Oct.  5th,  1876,  a.eed  83  years . 

The  Revs.  Dr.  Carroll,  Dr.  Douglas,  Egerton  R.  Young 
and  Alex.  Sutherland  were  among  the  visitors. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Wednesday. 

The  Toronto  Conference  was  held  in  Whitby,  com- 
mencing on  the  13th  of  June,  1877. 

President — Rev.  George  Young. 

Secretary — Rev.  Wm.  Briggs. 
,  Into  full  connection — Samuel  P.  Rose,  W.  H.  Jamie- 
son,  B.A.,  John  W.  Bell.  Andrew  Wilson,  Andrew 
W.  Ross,  J.  Armstrong  McCamus.  Francis  Johnson, 
Wm.  Torrance,  Almon  P.  Lyons,  Charles  Hearing, 
George  Edwards,  James  M.  Harrison,  Wm.  R. 
Morrison,  Thomas  W.  Hall.  The  Rev.  Dr.  Green 
moved  and  the  Rev.  N.  R.  Willoughby  seconded  their 
reception.  The  ordination  sermon  was  preached  by  the 
Rev.  Dr.  Jefifers. 

Twelve  young  men  were  received  on  trial. 

Died — Gilbert  Miller,  April  6th,  1877,  aged  80  years. 

At  the  missionary  meeting  the  President  took  the 
chair  and  the  Rev.  Egerton  R.  Young,  of  Norway 
House,  was  one  of  the  speakers.  The  Conference  closed 
on  Tuesday  evening. 

The  Montreal  Conference  began  its  sessions  June 
20th,  1877,  in  Ottawa. 

President — Rev.  George  Douglas,  LL.D. 

Secretary— Re.v.  Wm.  S.  Blackstock. 

Into  full  connection — Henry  Meyer,  Silas  J.  Hughes, 
John  Webster,  Simon  Cruikshanks,  Ernest  M.  Taylor, 
Allan  Patterson. 

The  ordination  sermon  was  preached  bv  the  Rev.  Dr. 
Ryerson.  The  Rev.  Dr.  Fowler,  Editor  of  the  New 
York  Christian  Advocate,  preached  in  the  evening. 

Seven  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — Robert  Garry,  Oct.  31st,  1876,  aged  y:^  years. 

Ezekiel  Richardson,  Dec.  9th,  1876,  aged  40  years. 
Sylvester  Hurlburt,  March  8th,  1877,  aged  73  years. 
John  G.  Stratton,  March  26th,  1877,  aged  31  years. 

339 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

A  telegram  from  St.  John,  N.  B.,  stated  that  three- 
fourths  of  that  city  had  been  destroyed  by  fire ;  the  loss 
estimated  at  $15,000,000.  Three  of  the  best  Methodist 
churches  were  destroyed.  A  subscription  was  author- 
ized to  assist  the  suffering-  congregations. 

Resolutions  were  adopted  requesting  the  Government 
to  investigate  the  condition  and  redress  the  grievances 
of  the  Oka  Indians. 

The   Conference   closed   on  Wednesdav. 

The  Nova  Scotia  Conference  commenced  its  sessions 

in  Yarmouth,  June  20th,   1877,  with  Rev.  Elias  Brettle 

President  and  Rev.  S.  F.  Huestis  Secretary.     The  total 

number  of  ministers,  112;  members,  9,728;  decrease,  132. 

The  death-list  numbered  four — 

Thomas  H.  Davies,  Aug.  28th,  1876,  aged  78  years. 
Albert  S.  Des  Brisay,  Oct.  4th,  1876,  aged  36  years. 
WilHam  Sargent,  March  3rd,  1877,  aged  36  years. 
Michael  Pickles,  April  9th,  1877,  ^g^d  80  years. 
The  New  Brunswick  and  Prince  Edward  Island  Con- 
ference was  held  in  Fredericton,  commencing  on  the  27th 
of  June,  1877.    The  Rev.  John  Prince  was  elected  Presi- 
dent  and   the   Rev.   Howard   Spragge,   M.A.,   Secretary. 
Total  number  of  ministers,  96;  members,  7,717;  increase, 

154- 

The  disastrous  conflagration  in  St.  John  enlisted  the 
warmest  sympathy  of  the  Conference.  Deputations 
were  appointed  to  secure  assistance  for  the  sufferers 
and  to  aid  in  the  erection  of  new  Methodist  churches. 

The  Newfoundland  Conference  was  held  in  Car- 
bonear,  commencing  June  13th,  1877.  President,  Rev. 
John  Goodison ;  Secretary,  Rev.  Joseph  Pascoe.  Total 
number  of  preachers,  49 ;  members,  7,075.  Died — John 
Dixon,  August  4th,  1876,  aged  26  years.  The  Rev. 
John  Lathern  bears  testimony  to  the  very  great  pleasure 
afforded  by  the  Revs.  Dr.  Taylor,  George  Douglas,  and 
W.  H.  Withrow  in  their  visit  to  the  Eastern  Provinces. 

340 


THE  ENGLISH  AND  OTHER  CONFERENCES 

Greatly  increased  activity  in  temperance  work  is 
manifest  throughout  the  country.  Petitions  and  efforts 
to  secure  prohibitory  legislation  have  at  least  led  to  the 
more  general  adoption  and  rigid  enforcement  of  the 
Dunkin  Act  of  1864,  by  which  partial  local  prohibition 
may  be  secured.  It  is  in  force  in  all  the  counties  be- 
tween Toronto  and  Kingston,  except  Hastihgs,  and  it  is 
soon  to  be  tried  there.  The  contest  in  Peterborough 
was  fierce  and  prolonged,  but  won  a  majority  of  1 16 
votes  for  temperance. 

The  Rev.  Charles  S.  Eby,  M.A.,  in  a  series  of  letters 
on  the  way  to  Japan,  tells  of  severe  domestic  and  per- 
sonal affliction,  also  of  renewed  health  and  hard  work, 
learning  the  language  and  teaching  anxious  learners. 

The  Rev.  George  M.  Meacham,  M.A.,  writing  from 
Numadzo,  Japan,  June  28th,  1877,  says : 

'  Twelve  societies  are  in  the  field,  employinof  a  total 
of  about  80  foreign  missionaries,  doctors  and  teachers; 
also  about  as  many  native  helpers,  about  1,000  converts 
and  400  attendants.' 

After  telling  of  the  work  done  by  the  British  and 
Foreign  Bible  Society  and  translators,  Mr.  Meacham 
speaks  of  a  succession  of  violent  storms : 

'  Through  fire  and  flood,  and  stormv  wind  we  have 
been  brought  in  safety  and  here  we  raise  our  "  Ebene- 
zer!"  Our  work  is  still  prosperous.  Fourteen  have 
been  baptized,  seven  of  them  heads  of  families.  The 
Japanese  are  fluent  in  prayer.  We  have  no  dull  meet- 
ings. One  young  woman  shows  great  readiness  to 
speak  or  pray.  Three  of  the  converts  are  beginning 
to  preach  Jesus.  Our  friends  in  Canada  must  be  patient, 
for  our  work  will  necessarily  be  slow.' 

From  Victoria,  B.C.,  the  Rev.  William  Pollard 
writes :  '  Our  church  here,  with  enlargement,  has  cost 
about  $20,000.  It  is  perhaps  the  most  missionary  church 
in  the  Dominion — supporting  its  own  minister,  an  Indian 
mission  in  the  city,  a  missionary  at  Naas,  six  hundred 
miles  north,  and  subscribing  liberally  to  the  general  fund. 
In  this  district  we  have   12  ministers,  23  churches,  and 

341 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

31  other  preaching  places,  771  members,  3,250  adherents, 
10  Sunday  Schools.  450  scholars.  7  parsonages,  2  Indian 
schools,  and  i  Chinese.  The  missions  paid  towards 
salaries  $5,121;  to  Connexional  fimds  $1,114  ^"^1  ^ 
large  amount  for  local  purposes.' 

Mrs.  Jane  Coleman  Washington,  sister  of  Revs.  Fran- 
cis and  William  Coleman,  wife  of  Mr.  Stephen  Wash- 
ington, Darlington,  and  mother  of  Revs.  William  C.  and 
Edwin  S.  Washington,  '  was  born  in  Cornwall,  England, 
in  1810,  came  to  this  country  in  1834  and  was  married  the 
next  year.  When  about  eighteen  years  of  age  she  was  con- 
verted and  through  life  maintained  a  steadfast  faith  in 
Christ  and  close  attachment  to  the  Church  of  her  choice. 
Amid  the  hardships  of  pioneer  life,  her  home,  like  that  of 
her  father,  was  ever  open  to  the  weary  itinerant  and  her 
thoughtful  ministrations  available.  After  some  weeks 
of  severe  affliction  she  calmly  fell  asleep  in  Jesus,  on  the 
25th  of  July,  1877,  aged  67  years.' 

During  the  summer  several  very  profitable  conventions 
were  held  to  consider  the  best  means  for  the  promotion 
of  the  work  of  God.  Then  we  hear  of  revivals  on 
many  circuits — Streetsville,  Walter's  Falls,  Bond  Head. 
Kleinburg,  Keene,  Perth,  Cartwright,  Colborne,  Fair- 
field, Sunderland,  Welland.  Ridgeway,  Vienna,  Brad- 
ford, Woodslee,  Gravenhurst,  North  Gower,  Wellington, 
Oil  Springs,  etc. 

Dr.  Carroll's  vigorous  pen  continued  faithfully  to 
advocate  further  Methodist  Union,  laying  stress  upon 
additional  privileges  for  laymen  as  a  means  of  facilitat- 
ing success.  The  Rev.  William  Herridge  declared  the 
Committee  of  the  Primitive  Methodist  Church  was 
ready  for  further  negotiations  and  mutual  concessions. 

The  Missionary  Committee  met  in  Brockville,  October 
22nd,  1877.  Sheriff  Patrick  took  the  chair  at  the  public 
meeting.  An  income  of  $145,998  was  reported.  The 
expenditure   exceeded   the   income   by   $28,257,   making 

342 


THE  ENGLISH  AND  OTHER  CONFERENCES 

the  debt  $53,000.  The  unusual  and  prolonged  financial 
depression  had  been  severely  felt,  but  there  was  a  cheer- 
ing outlook  for  better  times.  The  Rev.  George  Young, 
from  Manitoba,  Rev.  John  Prince,  from  New  Bruns- 
wick, Rev.  John  Goodison,  from  Newfoundland,  T,  M. 
Lewis,  Esq.,  of  Yarmouth,  and  John  McDonald,  Esq., 
of  Toronto,  were  the  chief  speakers. 

Dr.  and  Mrs.  Palmer,  of  New  York,  assisted  in  a 
series  of  very  successful  services  in  Hamilton, 

The  Rev.  Richard  W.  Woodsworth  says  his  circuit — 
Jarvis — 'has  advanced  from  $313  missionary  money  last 
year  to  $657 — an  indication  of  what  is  possible  were  a  gen- 
eral effort  made  to  meet  the  urgent  demand.' 

Between  the  ist  of  June  and  the  end  of  December, 
1877,  new  churches  were  opened  at  Mt.  Zion,  Beebe 
Plain,  Lunenburg,  Hunts ville,  Trenton,  Flos,  Manotic, 
Sutton,  Que.,  Harrietsville,  Brucefield,  Stromness, 
Palestine,  Man.,  Flesherton.  Clifford,  North  Chatham, 
Parry  Sound,  Selkirk,  Man.,  Port  Stanley,  Hillsburg,  St. 
Catharines,  Welland,  Seaforth,  Hamilton  —  Simcoe 
Street — Drayton,  etc. 

The  new  year,  1878,  opens  with  evidences  of  renewed 
consecration  to  God  and  reports  of  revivals  on  many 
circuits. 

Margaret  Byrne  came  with  her  parents  from  Ireland 
in  1820  to  Perth.  In  1829  she  became  the  wife  of  the 
Rev.  John  Black.  She  proved  an  effective  co-worker, 
survived  her  husband,  and  died  February  17th,  1878. 

,  Muskoka : 
'  The  Morrison  Mission,  including  half  a  dozen  town- 
ships of  Muskoka,  has  been  favored  with  fruitful  ser- 
vices. Some  old  debts  have  been  paid  and  new  churches 
arranged  for.  The  Carling  Mission,  including  the 
townships  of  Medora,  Monck,  Watt  and  Wood,  has 
built  three  churches  in  two  years,  and  has  received  as 
a  gift  a  suitable  site  for  a  parsonage.  The  missionary 
travels  his  extensive  field  on  snowshoes  or  in  his  canoe. 

343 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  Huntsville  Mission  embraces  the  Stephenson, 
Stisted,  Brunei,  Franklin,  Chaffey.  and  Perry  town- 
ships, and  has  three  churches  recently  completed.  Other 
adjacent  places  are  calling-  for  a  missionary.  Showers 
of  blessing  have  fallen,  even  in  the  wilderness  and  many 
conversions  have  swelled  the  roll  of  membership.  The 
Rosseau  Mission  includes  Cardwell  and  Humphrey.  A 
new  church  has  been  built  in  Ashdown  and  another  at 
Trout  Lake;  but  at  Rosseau  Lake,  the  resort  of  many 
tourists  and  the  depot  for  settlers'  supplies  for  sixty 
miles  northward,  there  is  yet  neither  church  nrr  a 
substitute.  Spence,  the  newest  and  most  distant  of 
these  missions,  includes  the  townships  of  Monteith, 
Spence,  Croft,  Chapman,  and  Ryerson,  the  no-thern 
portion  being  one  hundred  and  forty  miles  from  Barrie. 
New  churches  in  Monteith  and  Ryerson  townships  were 
dedicated  in  January  last  by  the  Chairman.  In  the  lat- 
ter township,  seventy-five  per  cent,  of  the  land  is  of 
good  quality  and  mostly  located.  We  owe  this  country 
Christian  ordinances  and  more  liberal  allowances  for 
the  men  supplying  them.' — John  Bredin. 

In  the  saddle-bag  days  the  little  school-house  in 
"  Smoky  Hollow  "  was  one  of  the  appointments  of  the 
Dalhousie  Circuit.  About  1840  the  New  Connexion  breth- 
ren built  a  good-sized  church.  The  Wesleyans  built  an- 
other a  mile  and  a  half  north-west  and  the  New  Con- 
nexion another  not  far  distant.  To  unite  the  three  in  one 
a  central  site  was  obtained  and  a  new  church  erected, 
which  was  opened  on  the  i6th  of  May,  1878. 

'  Such  unity  and  enthusiasm  were  never  before  wit- 
nessed in  that  neighborhood,  and  the  subscriptions  ex- 
ceeded the  expenditure.' 

S.  P.  Ford,  M.D.,  of  Norwood,  in  reply  to  a  corre- 
spondent who  had  asked  "  What  becomes  of  our  new 
members  ?"  says : 

'  Let  the  frontier  town,  where  the  increase  reported  at 
Conference  did  not  correspond  with  the  number  reported 
in  the  papers,  answer  for  itself.  The  hundreds  who 
gave  their  hearts  to  the  Lord  here  last  winter,  with  very 
few  exceptions,  are  in  our  Church  communion  to-day. 

344 


THE  ENGLISH  AND  OTHER  CONFERENCES 

The  work  was  pre-eminently  the  work  of  God — the  re- 
sult of  three  years'  honest,  faithful  presentation  of  God's 
truth  and  in  answer  to  the  importunate  supplications 
of  God's  people.  No  wonder  that  there  are  so  few 
backsliders  after  such  a  work — and  it  is  still  going  on.' 

New  churches  have  been  built  at  Monckton,  Kirkfield, 
Caledon,  Hamilton — Wesley  Church— W.  Winchester, 
Richmond,  Kelvin,  etc. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Douglas,  Delegate  to  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  South,  received  a  real  Methodist  wel- 
come, and  his  address  awakened  unbounded  enthusiasm. 

The  French  District  Meeting  was  held  in  the  little 
French  Church,  Montreal,  the  Rev.  John  Borland,  Chair- 
man, presiding.  All  the  brethren  were  present  with 
cheering  reports  of  progress.  There  had  been  42  re- 
movals, but  an  increase  of  78.  Everywhere  there  were 
difficulties  and  constant  opposition. 

The  General  Conference  of  the  Australian  Methodist 
Church  opened  in  Sydney,  N.S.W.,  on  the  8th  of  May, 
1878.  Ninety-one  delegates — the  whole  number  elected 
— were  present,  representing  the  Annual  Conferences  of 
New  South  Wales,  Victoria  and  Tasmania,  South  Aus- 
tralia, and  New  Zealand.  The  Rev.  J.  Watsford  was 
President  and  the  Rev.  J.  B.  Waterhouse  Secretary. 

The  returns  at  the  Red  River  District  Meeting  show  a 
membership  of  about  1,000,  an  increase  of  130.  Four 
additional  men  are  asked  for. 

British  Columbia  District  Meeting  reports  thirteen 
missionaries  employed ;  the  total  membership  of  Indians 
and  whites  996,  an  increase  of  225,  and  $11,279  raised 
for  all  purposes,  and  church  property  valued  at  $74,375- 

At  the  recent  Primitive  Methodist  Conference  in  Lon- 
don, Ont.,  the  question  of  union  was  carefully  con- 
sidered, but  no  final  action  was  taken. 


345 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 

1878-9. 

RELIEF  AND  EXTENSION. 

Conferences — Kingston — General  Conference  —  Montreal  —  East- 
ern Visit — Chilliwack — Crosby — Pollard — Derrick — Steinhaur 
— Manning — Lawson— Conferences,  1879  —  Colleges  —  Relief 
Fund — Ottawa — Winnipeg — Cosford — Peterson  —  Ecumenical 
Council — Oxford  House — Japan. 

The  London  Conference  opened  in  St.  Thomas  on  the 
5th  of  June,  1878.  The  Rev.  E.  B.  Ryckman,  M.A., 
was  elected  President  and  the  Rev.  John  Wakefield  Sec- 
retary. 

Into  full  connection — Joseph  H.  Hodson,  B.A., 
Edwin  S.  Shibley,  Hugh  T.  Crossley,  Wm.  L.  Hackett. 
John  W.  Cooley,  Samuel  C.  Sellery,  B.D.,  Alfred  M. 
Phillips,  B.D.,  Richard  C.  Henders. 

The  Rev.  J.  B.  Clarkson,  M.A.,  moved  and  the  Rev. 
S.  D.  Rice,  D.D.,  seconded  their  reception. 

A  Conference  prayer-meeting  was  held  at  six  o'clock 
Sunday  morning,  and  the  love-feast  at  nine  o'clock.  The 
ordination  sermon  was  preached  by  the  Rev.  Egerton 
Ryerson,  D.D.  On  Monday  the  Rev.  Dr.  Wood  pre- 
sented the  report  of  the  work  in  Japan  and  the  Rev. 
Davidson  McDonald,  M.D.,  gave  an  account  of  their 
five  years'  labor  in  that  country. 

Nine  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — Geo.  McNamara,  Aug.  3rd,  1877,  aged  66  years. 
Peter  Ker,  April  8th,  1878,  aged  69  years. 

Number  of  members — 37.880;  increase,  569. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Wednesday  evening. 

The  Toronto  Conference  was  held  in  the  Richmond 
Street  Church,  Toronto,  commencing  on  the  T2th  of 
June,  1878.  The  Rev.  E.  B.  Harper,  M.A.,  was  elected 
President  and  the  Rev.  John  G.  Laird  Secretary. 

The  greetings  of  the  London  Conference  were  received 
346 


1.  Lake,  Mr.  .lolm  .N 
4.  Sparling,  J.  W.,  D.D. 
7    McDougall,  John,  D.D 


•J    Mrs.  Jamt-s  Goodurhaui 
5.  Mrs.  E.  S.  Strachan 
8.  Young,  Rev.  Joseph 


a.   MrLareii,  .linl-r  •!. 
6.  Ross,  James  S.,  D.D. 
9.  Inch,  J.  R.,  LL.D. 


RELIEF  AND   EXTENSION 

by  telegraph  and  answered. 

Into  full  connection — ^George  C.  Workman,  M.A., 
Francis  H.  Wallace,  B.D.,  Henry  Thomas,  Wm.  H. 
Elmsley,  Thomas  C.  Legate,  Foster  McCammond, 
Thomas  B.  Wilson,  Sidney  J.  Shorey,  Wm.  T.  Dyer, 
Jabez  Wass,  Thomas  Manning,  B.A.,  George  Walker, 
Robt.  C.  Wilkinson,  Frank  C.  Keam,  Wm.  T.  Hicks. 

Their  reception  was  moved  by  Dr.  Ryerson  and 
seconded  by  Dr.  Jeffers. 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Nelles  preached  the  ordination  sermon. 
The  Rev.  Alex.  Burns,  M.A.,  D.D.,  returning  from  the 
United  States,  was  re-admitted  to  membership  in  the 
Conference. 

Sixteen  candidates  were  received  on  trial — three  of 
them  from  Japan. 

Died — Thomas  Sliter,  Jan.  3rd,  1878,  at  the  Montreal 
College,  in  the  fifth  year  of  his  probation,  and  at  the 
age  of  28  years. 

Members — 36,072;  increase,  740. 

The  Montreal  Conference  assembled  in  Brockville, 
June  19th,  1878.  The  Rev.  John  Borland  was  elected 
President  and  the  Rev.  W.  I.  Shaw,  LL.B.,  Secretary. 

Into  fnll  connection — George  H.  Porter,  Isaac 
Wheatley,  Arthur  Whiteside,  Edward  W.  Crane,  George 
C.  Poyser,  Benjamm  Franklin,  B.A.,  Joseph  Carr. 

Their  reception  was  moved  by  the  Rev.  Henry  F. 
Bland  and  seconded  bv  the  Rev.  Wm.  Jackson. 

The  ex-President,  Rev.  Dr.  Douglas,  preached  the 
ordination  sermon. 

Nine  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died— ]ohn  Howes,  Sept.  ist,  1877,  aged  65  years. 

Wm.  S.  McCullough,  M.A.,  May  27th,  1878,  aged 
36  years. 

Number  of  members,  22,850;  increase,  744. 

To  provide  for  the  debt  on  Stanstead  College  it  was 
proposed  that  the  ministers  contribute  $5,000,  that  $5,000 
be  raised  in  Stanstead,  and  that  a  general  canvass  be 
made  for  the  balance.  The  ministers  present  subscribed 
$6,387. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Tuesday  night. 

347 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

The  Nova  Scotia  Conference  was  held  at  Amherst, 
N.S.,  commencing  June  27th,  1878.  President,  Rev. 
James  Taylor;  Secretary,  Rev.  Stephen  F.  Huestis.  The 
places  of  meeting  were  but  ten  miles  apart  and  these 
two  Conferences  interchanged  visits. 

Died — Henry  Pope,  July  6th,  1877,  aged  89  years. 

W.  F.  Penny,  B.D.,  March  28th,  1878,  aged  30 
years. 
The  New  Brunswick  Conference  met  in  Sackville, 
N.B.,  June  27th,  1878.  The  Rev.  Joseph  Hart  was 
elected  President  and  the  Rev.  Charles  H.  Paisley,  M.A., 
Secretary. 
Died — John  Ellis,  July  26th,  1877,  aged  32  years. 

Wm.  McCarty,  Nov.  17th,  1877,  aged  62  years. 

The    Newfoundland    Conference    commenced    on    the 
13th  of  June,  1878.     President,  Rev.  George  S.  Milligan, 
M.A. ;  Secretary,  the  Rev.  James  Dove. 
Died— John  Gibson  Currie,  May  8th,  1878,  aged  2y  years. 

In  all  the  Conferences  Delegates  were  elected  to  the 
General  Conference. 

After  improvements  to  the  extent  of  $6,000  the  Syd- 
enham Street  Church,  Kingston,  was  reopened  July 
T4th,  1878. 

The  Rev.  Alex.  Burns,  D.D.,  LL.D.,  resigned  the 
Presidency  of  Simpson  Centenary  College,  Indianola, 
and  was  appointed  President  of  the  Wesleyan  Female 
College,  Hamilton. 

The  second  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist 
Church  of  Canada  assembled  in  the  Dorchester  Street 
Church,  Montreal,  on  the  4th  of  September,  1878,  the 
President,  Rev.  Dr.  Ryerson,  in  the  chair.  After  de- 
votional exercises  the  President  gave  an  historical  and 
statistical  review  of  the  past  four  years.  The  quadren- 
nial census  of  the  Church  presents  us  with  the  following 
results,  as  reported  at  the  Annual  Conferences  of  June, 
1878.     Number  of  Conferences,  6;  number  of  members, 

348 


RELIEF   AND    EXTENSION 

113,175;  on  trial,  9,430;  total,  122,605;  increase,  20,659; 
ministers,  1,165;  increase,  134;  Sunday  schools,  1,733; 
increase,  221;  officers  and  teachers,  15,751;  in- 
crease, 2,474;  scholars,  120,972;  increase,  19,754; 
churches,  2,046 ;  increase,  540 ;  parsonages,  484 ;  in- 
crease, no;  total  value  of  all  church  property,  $6,022,- 
227;  increase  during  quadrennial,  $2,667,330.  The 
Doctor's  lucid  and  encouraging  address  elicited  the 
heartiest  approval  of  the  Conference.  The  number  of 
Delegates  elected  by  the  Annual  Conferences  was  225. 
The  Rev.  George  Douglas,  D.D.,  was  elected  President 
and  the  Rev.  Alex.  Sutherland  Secretary.  The  Rev. 
Samuel  Coley,  Representative  of  the  English  Conference, 
was  introduced.  To  ensure  uniformity  of  administra- 
tion a  Committee  was  appointed  on  the  Government  of 
the  Church.  On  the  evening  of  the  first  day  a  sacra- 
mental service  was  held  in  St.  James  Street  Church. 
The  Rev.  Dr.  Sargeant,  Representative  of  the  M.  E. 
Church  of  the  United  States,  was  introduced.  Among 
many  memorials  was  one  from  the  Kingston  District 
proposing  the  admission  of  laymen  to  the  Annual  Con- 
ferences. The  Endowment  Funds  for  Arts  and  Theology 
in  Victoria  College  had  reached  $120,000.  The  Trans- 
fer Committee  was  made  to  consist  of  the  President  of 
the  General  Conference  and  the  Presidents  of  all  the 
Annual  Conferences. 

On  Sunday  the  Rev.  Samuel  Coley,  of  the  English 
Conference,  preached  in  St.  James  Street  Church  in  the 
morning  and  the  Rev.  William  Taylor,  Missionary 
Bishop  from  India,  in  the  evening. 

A  committee  was  appointed  with  authority  to  publish 
a  new  Hymn  Book. 

The  Committee  on  Class-Meetings  reported  that  '  they 
do  not  find  any  sufficient  reason  to  warrant  them  in 
recommending  any  legislation,  either  on  the  subject  of 
class-meetings  or  class-meeting  attendance.' 

349 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

This  awakened  discussion.  On  one  side  it  was  con- 
tended 

*  that  the  rules  are  not  and  cannot  be  enforced — that 
there  should  be  no  condition  of  Church  membership 
not  authorized  by  the  New  Testament — that  compul- 
sory attendance  is  a  bar  to  many  g-ood  people — that  Mr. 
Wesley  did  not  regard  his  societies  as  a  Church — that 
making  attendance  at  class  a  test  unduly  exalts  one 
means.* 

On  the  other  side  it  was  urged  '  that  the  class-meeting 
has  been  a  main  factor  in  the  beginning  and  development 
of  the  Methodist  Church — ^that  making  attendance  op- 
tional would  tend  to  discontinuance  and  open  the  way 
for  a  nominal  and  unconverted  membership — that  spirit- 
uality would  be  lowered — that  the  class-meeting,  though 
not  as  such  specially  mentioned,  is  a  form  of  Scriptural 
fellowship — that  the  desire  for  change  is  from  outside — 
that  attendance  is  a  condition  rather  than  a  test  of  mem- 
bership— that  Wesley  made  it  so,  not  only  in.  his  societies 
at  home,  but  in  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church — that 
those  who  declare  opposition  to  Christian  fellowship  are 
very  few — that  while  a  small  number  may  have  been 
repelled,  multitudes  have  been  won  by  the  social  life  and 
power,  fostered  in  the  class-meeting- — that  it  is  an  efficient 
means  for  Scriptural  oversight— and  that  the  Church 
has  a  right  to  employ  the  best  means  to  accomplish  New 
Testament  injunctions.' 

A  lengthy  debate  ended  in  adopting  the  Report  and 

allowing  our  rules  to  stand. 

"  Thus  closed  one  of  the  finest  debates  ever  conducted 
in  any  Conference  of  the  Methodist  Church  of  Canada. 
For  point  in  argument  and  application,  for  logical  de- 
duction, for  earnestness  of  spirit,  for  gentlemanly  con- 
duct towards  opponents,  it  is  doubtful  if  ever  it  has  been 
excelled  in  any  similar  court." 

But  the  general  consensus  reached  was  regarded 
more  as  a  truce  than  a  final  decision. 

An  evening  session  was  held  for  the  reception  of 
Delegates,  when  the  Rev.  Samuel  Coley,  of  the  British 
Conference;  the  Rev.  Dr.  Upham,  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal   Church,   United    States,   and    the    Rev.   Dr. 

350 


RELIEF  AND   EXTENSION 

Kelley,  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  South,  ad- 
dressed the  Conference. 

It  was  resolved  that  only  one  Missionary  Secretary  be 
appointed.  The  Rev.  Dr.  Wood,  who  had  been  Super- 
intendent of  Missions  from  1847  ^o  1^68  and  Missionary 
Secretary  from  1868  to  1878,  sent  in  a  letter  of  resigna- 
tion. The  resignation  was  accepted,  with  the  request 
that  Dr.  Wood  continue  his  attendance  at  the  meetings 
of  the  Committee  and  of  the  Central  Board.  The  Rev. 
Alexander  Sutherland  was  appointed  General  Secretary 
and  also  Clerical  Treasurer,  with  John  McDonald,  Esq., 
as  Lay  Treasurer.  The  Rev.  Edward  H.  Dewart  was  re- 
elected Editor  of  the  Christian  Guardian  and  Evangelical 
Witness,  and  the  Rev.  William  Briggs  was  elected  Book 
Steward.  The  Rev.  D.  D.  Currie  was  elected  Editor  of 
the  Wesleyan  and  the  Rev.  Dr.  Pickard  Book  Steward 
for  the  Eastern  section.  Six  memorials  requested  an 
extension  of  the  ministerial  term  to  four  or  five  years. 
The  Committee  reported  against  the  extension,  and  the 
Conference  sustained  the  Report.  The  Revs.  J.  R. 
Jacques  and  William  Brown,  Delegates  from  the  Metho- 
dist Episcopal  Church  of  Canada,  brought  a  fraternal 
message  from  their  Conference,  and  were  heard  with 
great  pleasure,  both  the  message  and  the  addresses 
breathing  the  desire  "  that  we  be  more  and  more  closely 
united  in  the  bonds  of  Christian  fraternity."  These  senti- 
ments were  reciprocated  in  a  Conference  resolution,  car- 
ried by  a  rising  vote,  expressing  the  hope  that  "  the 
Methodism  of  our  country  may  ultimately  become  one." 

A  motion  to  admit  laymen  to  the  district  meeting 
received  a  majority  vote,  but  not  the  necessary  three- 
fifths.  A  proposal  by  the  Rev.  Louis  Beaudry  and  Hon. 
James  Eerrier  for  the  organization  of  a  Woman's  Mis- 
sionary Society  was  referred  to  the  Central  Board,  with 
power  to   act.     It   was   resolved   that  the   debt  of  the 

351 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Missionary  Society  be  divided  among  the  Conferences, 
to  be  paid  in  four  annual  payments. 

The  addresses,  debates,  and  general  business  of  the 
Conference  were  well  reported  in  the  Christian  Guar- 
dian, and  all  legislation  published  in  the  minutes,  to 
which  reference  may  be  made  for  further  particulars. 

The  sessions  were  continued  from  the  4th  to  the  23rd 
day  of  September.  A  very  excellent  photo  of  the  Con- 
ference, from  individual  sittings,  was  executed  by  Not- 
man  &  Co. 

From  Conference  annual  missionary  meetings  comes 
the  unanimous  determination — "  the  debt  must  be  paid." 

The  Rev.  Drs.  John  A.  Williams  and  Davidson  Mc- 
Donald visited  the  Eastern  Provinces  on  behalf  of  the 
Missionary  Society.  Over  $1,000  expenses  have  been 
incurred  in  defence  of  the  Oka  Indians  and  their  claims. 

Ontario  Ladies'  College : 

'  The  Christmas  concert  was  given  on  Wednesday 
evening.  The  Music  Hall  had  been  beautifully  orna- 
mented by  the  young  ladies ;  "  Merry  Christmas," 
"  Louise  and  Lome  "  and  other  evergreen  work  adorn- 
ing the  walls.  As  the  pupils  marched  in.  filling  tier 
after  tier  of  reserved  seats,  the  whisper  was  heard: 
"Are  there  many  more  coming?"  Mr.  Torrington  and 
his  pupils  went  splendidly  through  a  choice  programme, 
without  a  failure.  Then  the  pupils  and  their  friends 
were  invited  to  supper.  After  an  hour  spent  in  con- 
versation, friends  old  and  new  separated  with  many 
hearty  congratulations   on  the   unmistakable   success  _  of 

the   college With    the   new    buildings,   boarding 

accommodations  are  very  complete  and  the  facilities 
afforded  for  a  thorough  literary,  scientific  and  musical 
education  are  confessedly  unsurpassed.' 

The  Rev.  Charles  M.  Tate,  writing  from  Chilliwack, 
B.C.,  December  loth,  1878,  tells  of  much  work  and 
weeks  at  a  time  from  home : 

'  We  have  at  once  to  be  farmer,  mechanic,  magistrate, 
teacher,  doctor,  and  missionary.     Yet  it  thrills  the  heart 

352  ..       .      . 


L 


RELIEF   AND    EXTENSION 

with  joy  to  have  the  pleasure  of  telling-  the  story  of 
"  Jesus  and  His  love."  On  the  6th  of  Nov.  we  be^an 
a  four  days'  meeting.  The  weather  was  cold,  but  the 
church  was  filled,  many  coming  thirty  miles  and  living 
in  tents.  We  had  promised  to  visit  the  Indians  on  the 
coast  and  took  steamer  for  New  Westminster.  Through 
a  friend  we  procured  a  sloop  and  with  our  previous 
knowledge  went  to  work  on  ropes,  sails,  provisions, 
ballast,  etc' 

During  the  summer  new  churches  were  built  in 
Ameliasburg,  Bell's  Corners,  Victoria — Ridgeway 
Church — Kirkville,  Euphrasia,  Woolford,  Talbotville, 
Aurora,  Conestoga,  Wellington,  Man.,  Sandlake,  Cottam, 
Belmore,  Morris,  Man.,  Gravenhurst,  Beeton,  Man. 

Perth  :  '  A  year  ago  we  had  a  gracious  outpouring  of  the 
Holy  Spirit.  One  hundred  and  fifty  joined  the  Metho- 
dist Church,  a  large  proportion  of  whom  are  doing  well. 
Our  congregations  are  doubled,  our  prayer-meetings 
quadrupled.  A  deep-seated  religious  feeling  is  growing 
m  intensity.  At  the  country  appointment  the  little  one 
has  become   a   thousand.' 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Crosby,  Port  Simpson,  writes  of 
spiritual  improvement,  seven  classes,  with  262  members, 
and  some  useful  native  assistants ;  congregations  of  six 
to  eight  hundred  and  a  hundred  children  in  the  Sunday 
School. 

'  We  want  a  new  schoolhouse  and  are  getting  the 
foundations  ready;  who  will  help  us?  Another  great 
need  is  a  Home  for  young  women — now  even  by  fathers 
and  brothers  sold  to  their  ruin !  They  come  to  us  cry- 
ing for  help.  Had  we  a  place  for  them,  we  might  have 
a  score  or  more  all  the  time  under  our  care,  learning 
all  kinds  of  work  and  preparing  to  make  good  homes. 
Who  will  help  to  raise — say  $800 — for  the  necessary 
buildings?  Christian  women  in  Canada  would  surelv 
be  willing  to  lend  a  helping  hand.  We  are  praying  that 
God  will  come  in  power  and  save  the  people.' 

This  was  one  of  the  many  appeals  which  reached  the 
ears  and  hearts  of  some  Methodist  women  in  Hamilton 

23  353 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 


and  led  the  way  to  the  organization  of  the  "  Woman's 
Missionary  Society." 

Ever  and  anon  in  the  rusty  pages  of  old  Guardians 
we  meet  the  black  lines  which  tell  of  many  who  will  not 
again  answer  the  Conference  roll-call. 

Temperance,  missionary,  and  revival  meetings  make  the 
winter  months  a  harvest  time. 

Mr.  John  Mathewson,  now  in  his  ninetieth  year,  has 
been  fifty-seven  years  in  Montreal.  At  the  time  of  their 
golden  wedding  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Mathewson  invested  a 
sum  of  money  to  yield  $ioo  annually  to  the  Ottawa 
Street  Church  and  an  equal  amount  to  the  Superannua- 
tion Fund.  This  venerable  couple  have  been  permitted 
to  see  the  cause  they  loved  develop  from  small  begin- 
nings in  1821  to  its  present  vigorous  proportions. 

CENSUS   OF   SOME   DENOMINATIONS   IN   ONTARIO. 
Status  per   1,000,  omitting  decimals. 


Congregational  . 

Baptist 

Roman  Catholic 
Presbyterian 
Episcopalian     .  . 
Methodist 


I85I 

1861 

8 

7 

56 

50 

176 

184 

214 

217 

234 

228 

224 

250 

I87I 


53 
169 
220 
204 
285 


The  Rev.  William  Pollard,  writing  from  Victoria, 
B.C.,  February  29th,  1S79,  tells  of  improving  health, 
revival  services  attended  by  persons  speaking  fourteen 
languages,  the  conversion  of  many  from  the  interior, 
good  attendance  at  day  and  Sunday  School. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Derrick,  moving  from  Burrard 
Inlet  to  New  Westminster,  says : 

'  I'  am  ending  my  tenth  year  on  this  District — the 
oldest  man  in  the  work — and  serving  the  Society  with 
as  little  expense  as  possible.  My  home  has  been  a  hos- 
pital for  weeks.     We  have  to  be  all  things  to  all  men.' 

354 


L 


RELIEF   AND    EXTENSION 

The  Rev.  Henry  Steinhaur,  of  White  Fish  Lake,  after 
being  laid  aside  nearly  five  months,  was  slowly  recover- 
ing and  thankful  that  the  mission  had  not  greatly  suf- 
fered. He  was  cheered  by  the  arrival  of  books  and  a 
visit  from  his  Chairman.  Two  young  men  were  prepar- 
ing to  come  to  Ontario  to  study. 

The  Rev.  Henry  M.  Manning,  of  Fort  McLeod,  had 
secured  a  house,  lot  and  some  furniture  for  $225;  a 
large,  building  for  church  and  school  at  $6  a  month, 
fitted  up  by  the  people.  Young  men  of  the  Mounted 
Police,  long  deprived  of  social  and  religious  privileges, 
increase  the  small  congregation. 

Miss  Barrett,  teacher,  rejoices  in  the  coming  of  Mr. 
Manning  and  the  general  kindness  of  the  people;  she 
has  twenty-two  scholars,  much  in  need  of  books. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Lawson  says  he  is  trying  to  hold  the 
fort  at  Little  Saskatchewan  and  Shoal  Lake  until  assist- 
ance arrives.  Many  places  were  desiring  attention.  A  man 
should  be  at  Beautiful  Plains  and  another  at  Rapid  City, 
fast  becoming  an  important  centre. 

The  untimely  death  of  Mr.  James  Gooderham.  of 
Toronto,  by  a  railway  accident  at  Carlton,  May  loth, 
1878,  is  very  deeply  and  widely  mourned.  He  started 
as  a  probationer  for  the  ministry  in  1848,  but  his  health 
failing  after  two  years,  he  went  into  business.  Through 
subsequent  years  his  services  were  in  constant  demand 
and  highly  prized  on  many  circuits,  which  he  visited  as 
a  local  preacher.  Many  will  miss  his  generous  benefac- 
tions. His  funeral  was  one  of  the  largest  ever  seen  in 
I'oronto. 

Reports  from  educational  institutions  indicate  general 
success.  Towards  the  Stanstead  College  $40,000  were 
subscribed.  The  May  district  meetings  give  encourag- 
ing evidence  of  financial  and  numerical  increase.  New 
churches  have  been  erected  in  Lancaster,  Mount  Albert, 
Corinth,  Gait,  etc. 

355  " 


METHODISM    IN   CANADA 

The  London  Conference  met  in  Queen's  Avenue 
Church,  London,  on  the  4th  of  June,  1879.  President, 
Rev.  William  S.  Gritifin ;  Secretary,  Rev.  George  H.  Cor- 
nish. In  the  evening  of  the  first  day  a  memorial  service 
was  held,  and  fitting  tributes  were  paid  to  the  unusually 
large  number  of  ministers  who  had  died  during  the 
year . 

Asahel  Hurlburt,  July  26th,  1878,  aged  75  years. 
William  Philp,  Aug.  i8th,  1878,  aged  71  years. 
Solomon  Waldron,  Sept.  7th.  1878,  aged  83  years. 
Robert  Corson,  Oct.  8th,  1878,  aged  85  years. 
John  Ryerson,  Oct.  8th,  1878,  aged  79  years. 
Edmund  S.  Jones,  Oct.  i6th,  1878,  aged  39  years. 
Joseph  Messmore,  Jan.  15th,  1879,  aged  84  years. 
Joseph  B.  Goodspeed,  March  7th,  1879,  aged  53  years. 
C.  W.  Hawkins,  B.A.,  April  13th,  1879,  aged  32  years. 
James  Bell,  May  31st,  1879,  aged  69  years. 

Into  full  connection — Lewis  Warner  Crews,  Robert 
W.  Wright.  Theophilus  R.  Earle,  Francis  Swam,  Robert 
H.  Balmer,  James  E.  Ford,  Robert  W.  Smith,  Andrew 
M.  McCulloch,  Thomas  B.  Leith,  Cecil  Harper,  B.A., 
George  J.  Kerr,  Jasper  Wilson,  William  H.  Gane, 
James  E.  Russ,  Thomas  R.  Clarke,  John  W.  Freeman, 
B.D.,  Fred  H.  Sanderson.  Robt.  R.  Maitland,  David 
Rogers,  Alfred  A.  Bowers,  Thomas  H.  Orme. 

The  Rev.  John  F.  German,  ]\I.A.,  of  Winnipeg,  was 
introduced.  The  ordination  sermon  was  preached  by 
the  ex-President,  Rev.  E.  B.  Ryckman,  M.A.  Twelve 
candidates  were  received  on  trial.  The  Conference  dis- 
approved of  the  change  made  by  the  General  Conference 
in  regard  to  the  Transfer  Committee.  Total  number  of 
preachers,  331;  of  members,  38,767;  increase,  887. 

The  Toronto  Conference  was  opened  in  Port.  Hope 
on  the  nth  of  June,  1879. 

President — Rev.  John  Shaw. 

Secretary — Rev.  Thomas  S.  Keough. 

356 


RELIEF  AND   EXTENSION 

Into  full  connection — George  W.  Hewitt,  B.A.,  Wm. 
H.  Madden,  James  H.  Barkwell,  B.A.,  George  S. 
Reynolds,  Thomas  W.  Campbell,,  B.D.,  Solomon  C. 
Edmunds,  B.D.,  Andrew  Stewart,  B.D.,  Peter  W. 
Davies,  Charles  W.  Watch,  James  W.  Stewart,  Charles 
M.  Tate,  Wm.  P.  Brown. 

Six  young  men  were  received  on  probation. 

The  Revs.  John  McDougall,  from  the  North-West, 
Drs.  George  Cochran  and  Davidson  McDonald  from 
Japan,  spoke  at  the  missionary  meeting. 

Messrs.  James  Holden,  Joshua  Richardson,  G.  Y. 
Smith  and  Rev.  J.  E.  Sanderson  appeared  on  behalf  of 
Ontario  Eadies'  College.  They  spoke  of  the  additions 
made  to  the  buildings,  the  mcreasing  attendance  of 
pupils,  and  a  surplus  of  ip  1,500,  after  paying  running 
expenses  and  interest.  The  Rev.  J.  E.  Sanderson  hav- 
ing resigned  the  Governorship,  the  Rev.  John  J.  Hare, 
B.A.,  was  appointed  in  his  place.  The  Rev.  Drs.  Jeffers, 
Harper  and  W.  H.  Withrow,  Official  Visitors  to  the 
College,  highly  complimented  the  officers  and  staff  for 
the  energy  and  ability  manifested  in  the  success  of  the 
Institution. 

Died — Conrad  Vandusen,  Aug.  19th,  1878,  aged  78  years. 
Matthew  Robison,  Dec.  17th,  1878,  aged  34  years. 
John  W.  Wicher,  Feb.  3rd,  1879,  aged  38  years. 
Anson  Green,  D.D.,  Feb.  19th,  1879,  aged  78  years. 
William  Andrews,  April  14th,  1879,  aged  63  years. 
John  Mcguire,  May  loth,  1879,  aged  70  years. 
William  Sutton,  May  26th,  1879,  aged  64  years. 
William  Coleman,  May  27th,  1879,  aged  71  years. 

Total  number  of  ministers,  359;  members,  36,031; 
decrease,  41. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Tuesday  evening. 

The  Montreal  Conference  opened  in  Sydenham  S*". 
Church,  Kingston,  on  the  iStli  of  June,  1879. 

President — Rev.  George  McRitchie. 

Secretary — Rev.  Thomas  G.  Williams. 

Into  full  connection — Samuel  D.  Chown,  Thomas  B. 
Conley,  B.A.,  Samuel  Ellery,  Wm.  T.  Smith,  Wm.  H. 
Sparling,  B.A. 

Their  reception  was  moved  by  the  Rev.  LeRoy  Hooker 
and  seconded  by  the  Rev.  James  Elliott,  D.D. 

357 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

The  ordination  sermon  was  preached  by  the  Rev.  S. 
S.  Nelles,  LL.D. 

The  Revs.  George  Cochran,  from  Japan,  John  Mc- 
Dougall  and  Wm.  Halstead,  from  the  North  West,  took 
part  in  the  evening  meetings. 

Ministers,  225 ;  members,  22,373  5  decrease,  477. 

The  thanks  of  the  Conference  were  given  to  the 
Ladies'  I'Vench  Missionary  Societies  of  Montreal  and 
Stanstead. 

The  Rev.  Alex.  Hardie,  M.A.,  was  appointed  Gover- 
nor and  the  Rev.  A.  Lee  Holmes  Principal  of  the  Stan- 
stead  College. 

Proposals  from  the  Missionary  Committee  of  Finance 
for  the  raising  of  $150,000  were  approved. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Wednesday  afternoon. 

The  Centenary  Church,  Hamilton,  was  well  filled  for 
the  closing  exercises  of  the  Wesleyan  Female  College. 
Essays,  music,  addresses,  and  presentation  of  prizes 
pleasantly  occupied  the  evening. 

The  new  Ryerson  Hall,  Ontario  Ladies'  College,  was 
the  scene  of  a  grand  gathering  of  parents  and  friends 
for  the  College  closing.  Essays  were  read  by  the  gradu- 
ating class — Misses  Davies,  Herriman,  McDowell,  San- 
derson, Scott,  and  Wilson.  A  gold  medal  was  presented 
to  Miss  Davies ;  silver  medals  to  Misses  Herriman,  San- 
derson, and  Scott ;  and  prizes  to  several  others.  A  very 
appreciative  address  and  an  elegant  silver  service  were 
presented  by  the  pupils  to  the  Rev.  J.  E.  Sanderson, 
M.A.,  on  his  retiring  from  the  college. 

"  The  Board  of  Directors,  in  accepting  Mr.  Sander- 
son's resignation,  adopted  unanimously  a  resolution  ex- 
pressing their  high  aDpreciation  of  his  Christian  char- 
acter and  conduct  and  their  best  washes  for  his  future 
welfare.  At  a  subsequent  meeting  of  the  Board  a  peti- 
tion was  received  from  the  whole  school  requesting  a 
reconsideration  of  Mr.  Sanderson's  resignation." 

The  Executive  Committees  of  the  Annual  Conferences 
and  the  District  Meetings  generally  endorsed  the  pro- 
posal to  raise  a  Missionary  Relief  and  Extension  Fund  of 

358 


RELIEF  AND   EXTENSION 

$150,000.  The  discussions  in  the  General  Conference 
on  Class-meetings  have  been  followed  by  lengthy  cor- 
respondence, and  for  the  most  part  strongly  in  favor  of 
these  meetings  as  essential  factors  in  the  origin,  develop- 
ment and  perpetuation  of  Methodism. 

Robert  Campbell,  of  Brooklin,  Ont.,  son  of  an  officer  of 
the  British  Army,  '  was  born  in  Kingston  in  1801,  and  was 
brought  up  a  Presbyterian.  Removing  to  York  Township 
he  fell  in  with  "  the  people  called  Methodists,"  at  a  camp- 
meeting,  in  1827,  was  converted  and  united  with  the 
Methodist  Church  at  Richmond  Hill.  After  two  years' 
he  was  made  a  leader,  and  shortly  afterwards  a  local 
preacher.  About  1844  he  removed  to  Brooklin,  where 
until  his  death,  Sept.  18th,  1879.  he  was  known  as  a 
good  man,  a  faithful  leader  and  very  acceptable  local 
preacher.' 

The  Annual  Meeting  of  the  Missionary  Society  was 
held  in  Ottawa,  October,  1879,  Mr.  Dawson,  Mayor  of 
Charlottetown,  presided  at  the  public  meeting.  The 
Report  was  read  by  the  Secretary,  and  addresses  were 
delivered  by  Revs.  John  Shaw,  John  McDougall,  Dr. 
Rice,  Dr.  Dove,  Messrs.  Donley,  Morrow,  and  others. 

The  prospect  for  raising  a  special  Relief  and  Extension 
Fund  seemed  very  hopeful.  Some  subscriptions  of 
$1,000,  $8,000  raised  in  Montreal,  and  other  liberal 
offerings,  gave  assurance  of  success.  A  probationer, 
receiving  $200  salary,  having  to  pay  $125  for  board  and 
horse-keeping,  $35  for  books  and  other  necessaries, 
enquires:  "What  can  I  do?"  yet  resolves  to  have  a 
share  in  the  $150,000. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  W.  Constable's  tribute: 
'  At  the  age  of  about  twenty-one  years,  Diana  Matti- 
son  became  my  wife  and  we  came  to  this  country.  In 
1843  ^^e  went  to  the  Amherstburg  Mission,  where  she 
endured  for  Christ  what  only  some  ministers'  wives 
have  experienced.  One  half  of  a  large  house  was  our 
parsonage,  the  other  half  our  church.  My  work  took 
me  from  home  every  alternate  week  from  Sunday  noon 

359 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

to  Saturday  noon,  and  in  that  dreary  old  house  she 
spent  every  second  week  alone,  while  I  was  making 
my  150  miles'  ride  around  the  circuit  on  horseback. 
But  the  loneliness  and  hardship  she  cheerfully  endured 
that  souls  might  be  won.  When  we  left,  after  three 
years,  her  name  was  as  ointment  poured  forth.  Thence 
for  thirty-five  years  of  itinerant  life  she  was  every- 
where my  efficient  helper.  She  had  what  William 
Arthur  calls  the  gift  of  '*  patience  in  prayer  "  ;  and  often 
while  thus  she  prayed  sinners  trembled  and  saints 
shouted  for  joy.  After  five  months'  distressing  suffer- 
ing, from  paralysis,  she  fell  asleep  in  Jesus,  Nov.  ist, 
1879.  Of  her  ten  children — four  daughters  and  six 
sons — two  had  gone  before  her.  "  The  woman  that 
feareth  the  Lord,  she  shall  be  praised."  ' 

The  above  may  be  taken  as  a  sample  of  many  similar 
records  w^e  might  insert  of  itinerant  life. 

For  the  most  bountiful  harvest  in  several  years  a  day 
of  general  thanksgiving  was  proclaimed,  and  cheerful 
gratitude  prevails. 

The  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  United  States,  in  1876  proposed  a  General 
Council,  in  which  all  sections  of  Methodism  should  be 
represented.  The  English  Conference  of  1878  endorsed 
the  proposal.  Similar  action  was  taken  by  many  other 
Conferences  and  committees  were  appointed. 

Emerson,  Man. : 

'  The  Rev.  George  Young  and  wife  arrived  here  Dec. 
19th,  and  arrangements  were  made  for  services  on  Sun- 
day. The  Literary  Association  Hall  was  rented,  fitted 
up  with  seats,  desk,  and  an  extra  stove.  The  weather 
was  intensely  cold,  but  the  Hall  was  nearly  full  and  we 
were  comfortable.  With  an  organ  and  excellent  choir 
we  sang  the  songs  of  Zion  in  a  strange  land,  and  though 
distant  far  from  former  associations,  we  felt  thankfuj 
for  the  consolations  of  our  dear  old  ^Icthodism.  The 
text  was  Ps.  xx,  5  :  "  In  the  name  of  our  God  we  will 
set  up  our  banners." 

'  Having  been  so  long  destitute,  we  were  hungry  for 
the  bread  of  life.     In  the  afternoon  fellowship  meeting 

360 


RELIEF   AND    EXTENSION 

our  hearts  were  melted  within  us.  God  was  with  us 
and  we  were  drawn  closer  to  each  other.  Twenty-six 
names  were  taken  for  membership  and  others  have  been 
added.  In  the  evenin_^  the  Hall  was  full.  After  the 
sermon  a  short  but  warm  prayer-meeting  was  held. 
We  had  "  a  day  of  feasting."  On  Monday  the  Trustees 
decided  to  purchase  a  site,  build  a  tabernacle  and  a  small 
parsonage — an  expenditure  of  about  $2,000.  We  are  all 
newcomers,  but  will  do  what  we  can.  For  four  weeks 
the  weather  has  been  extremely  cold,  about  40  below 
zero  and  last  night  56.' — W.  McKechnie. 

Dr.  Young's  list  of  members  is  interesting: 

'  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Sparling,  St.  Mary's ;  Mr.,  Mrs.  and 
Miss  McKechnie,  Charlottetown ;  Miss  Wallace,  Win- 
throp;  Mr.  Keighley,  Mrs.  Young,  and  Miss  Linton, 
Toronto;  Mr.,  Mrs.' and  Miss  Baskerville,  Ottawa;  A. 
B.  Stoeffer  and  Mrs.  Stoeffer,  Oxford;  Harper  Mc- 
Kechnie, Grimsby;  Mrs.  Trayner,  Renfrew;  W.  J. 
Curtis,  London;  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Kinch,  Belleville;  Mrs. 
and  Miss  Kirfoot,  J.  W.  Kirfoot,  North  Gower;  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Armstrong,  Clinton;  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Crogan, 
Athens;  Miss  Copeland,  Tamworth;  Mr.  Leatherlaw, 
Seaforth ;  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Ferguson,  Ashfield ;  Wellington 
Stouifer  and  wife,  Kippen.     Total,  32.' 

For  these  few  to  "  arise  and  build  "  seemed  a  formid- 
able undertaking.  A  house  for  parsonage  was  bought 
for  $1,000,  and  two  lots  adjoining  for  $400. 

Winnipeg : 

'  Six  years  ago  this  place  was  a  small  village,  now  a 
city  of  over  9,000.  It  was  simply  a  Hudson's  Bay  post 
when  Sir  Garnet  Wolseley  arrived  at  Fort  Garry. 
New  buildings  are  to  be  erected  by  the  Company  at  a 
cost  of  $100,000.  Main  Street,  one-third  wider  than 
King  or  Yonge  St.,  Toronto,  is  built  up  for  a  mile  and  a 
quarter.  There  are  many  fine  buildings,  but  the  usual 
array  of  inferior  ones.  Grace  Church  is  neat  and  com- 
fortable. The  Presbyterian  church  cost  $30,000.  The 
other  churches  are  small.  Private  residences  are  gen- 
erally comfortable ;  some  elegant,  considering  the  cost 
of  materials.  Two  lots  have  been  secured  for  Methodist 
churches.  The  weather  lately  has  been  of  the  coldest- 
down  to  fifty  below  zero.' — W.  T.  Turner. 

361 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

As  last  winter  in  Brantford,  Chatham,  and  Guelph,  so 
now  in  St.  Catharines,  the  labors  of  Rev.  E.  P.  Ham- 
mond have  been  attended  with  great  success,  several 
hundreds  having  professed  conversion.  Services  have 
been  held  in  most  of  the  churches  simultaneously. 

Mrs.  Martha  Cosford,  mother  of  the  Rev.  Thomas 
Cosford,  was  born  in  Northamptonshire,  England,  Oc- 
tober 14th,  1792.  In  1819  she  came  with  her  husband, 
John  Cosford,  to  Little  York.  In  1827  they  moved  up 
Yonge  Street,  where  she  was  converted,  under  the  min- 
istry of  Rev.  D.  McMullen,  and  became  a  member  of 
the  Methodist  Church.  In  1846  the  family,  with  other 
friends,  found  a  new  home  in  the  Township  of  Peel, 
then  all  a  bush,  where  her  son  Thomas,  stationed  in 
Guelph,  gave  them  occasional  ministrations.  On  the 
death  of  her  husband  in  1862  she  went  to  live  with  her 
son-in-law,  Mr.  John  Garbutt,  of  Springhill,  where  she 
died,  November  6th,  1879,  aged  87  years.  She  was  an 
intelligent,  faithful,  Christian  woman.  Eleven  children 
and  over  sixty  grandchildren  cherish  her  memory. 

James  Peterson,  of  Colborne,  Ont.,  was  one  oT  a 
family  of  nine  sons  and  four  daughters  whose  parents, 
loyal  to  the  British  Throne,  sought  a  home  in  Canada  in 
1783,  and  settled  in  Adolphustown. 

'  The  mother  and  most  of  the  family  became  members 
of  the  Methodist  Church.  James  was  converted  at  the 
age  of  fifteen  and  continued  a  steadfast  member  of  the 
Church  all  his  days.  He  was  a  class  leader  and  a  local 
preacher  for  fortv  years.  He  died  on  the  3rd  _  of 
December,  1879,  at  the  age  of  eighty-one  years,  leaving 
a  widow,  a  large  family  of  sons  and  daughters,  and 
many  grandchildren.' 

William  Roadhouse  was  the  eldest  son  of  William 
and  Elizabeth  Roadhouse,  who  came  from  England  in 
1819  and  settled  in  Albion. 

'  Before  leaving  England.  William  married  Sarah 
Cass.     For  over  sixty  years  he  was  a  member  of  the 

362 


RELIEF  AND   EXTENSION 

Methodist  Church.  About  1830  a  church  was  built 
near  his  home,  known  as  the  Roadhouse  appointment. 
He  died  on  the  ist  of  January,  1880,  aged  83  yearsj 
leaving  a  widow,  six  sons  and  ^daughters,^  many  grand- 
and  great-grandchildren.' 

The  Rev.  Ebenezer  Robson  writes  of  his  pleasant  fur- 
lough in  Ontario,,  visits  to  Montreal,  Lachute,  Brock- 
ville,  farewells  at  Toronto,  his  trip  with  Miss  Lawrence, 
a  teacher,  to  San  Francisco,  and  his  safe  arrival  at 
Victoria.  Having  reached  the  "  Royal  City,"  he  con- 
cludes:  'It  is  just  twenty-one  years  since  I  first  set  foot 
on  the  banks  of  the  Eraser  River.  Not  a  single  tree  had 
then  been  cut  down  on  the  site  of  this  city.' 

For  some  years  the  Ladies'  Missionary  Society  of 
Montreal  and  other  Eastern  places  have  greatly  aided 
the  French  mission  work.  Women  in  some  western 
cities — Toronto,  Hamilton,  etc. — have  been  thinking 
that  by  union  of  effort  they  might  assist  Indian  and 
other  missions  and  help  to  swell  the  missionary  income. 
In  answer  to  their  suggestions  the  Missionary  Secretary 
mentioned  Japan,  Fort  Simpson,  and  the  Saskatchewan 
Orphanage,  towards  which  their  united  energies  might 
well  be  directed. 

For  years  the  name  of  Thomas  Vaux  has  been  a 
household  word  in  Ontario  and  Quebec. 

'  He  was  born  in  England  in  1797.  His  father  died 
early,  but  Thomas  received  a  good  education,  came  to 
America  when  about  twenty-one  and  after  a  short  stay 
in  the  United  States,  made  Canada  his  permanent  home. 
While  employed  as  a  teacher  at  Saltfleet  he  married  Miss 
Carpenter.  Subsequently  he  taught  more  advanced 
schools  in  Hamilton  and  Little  York,  after  which  he 
entered  the  service  of  the  Government.  His  wife  died 
while  he  was  yet  a  young  man,  and  later  he  married 
Miss  Marshall.  One  of  his  daughters  by  this  marriage 
became  the  wife  of  Rev.  Joseph  Hugill;  another  the  wife 
of  the  Rev.  J.  S.  Evans,  D.D.,  the  youngest,  Mrs.  W. 
E.  Sanford,  of  Hamilton.     Mr.  Vaux  was  converted  in 

363 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

a  camp-meeting  at  Ancaster  in  1823,  became  a  local 
preacher  and  filled  other  offices  in  the  Methodist  Church 
with  great  acceptability.  He  was  a  happy,  cheerful, 
consistent  Christian,  and  the  influence  of  his  life  was 
widely  felt  in  charitable  and  religious  work.  A  peace- 
ful and  quick  close  came  to  his  useful  life  of  eighty- 
three  years  on  the  25th  of  February,  1880.' 

Victoria. — "  Then  and  Now,"  by  Rev.  E.  Robson : 

'  Victoria  of  1859  consisted  almost  wholly  of  wooden 
buildings.  Now  there  are  scores  of  stone  and  brick 
edifices,  some  of  them  large  and  handsome.  All  the 
churches  have  been  built  since  then.  Not  a  single  pub- 
lic hall  then — now  quite  a  number;  scarcely  a  store  or 
warehouse  worth  naming — now  substantial  commercial 
blocks.  For  private  residences  there  were  the  old  cot- 
tages of  the  Company;  now  city  and  suburbs  can  boast 
of  palatial  mansions,  with  evidences  of  wealth  and  any 
number  of  cosy  dwellings.  The  Governor  and  the  Col- 
onial Chaplain  had  the  only  gardens  then  worth  seeing; 
now  flower  and  fruit  gardens  are  numerous.  English 
holly,  cypress,  laurel,  borders  of  box,  crocuses  in  full 
bloom  present  a  lovely  spectacle  in  February.  There 
was  but  one  Protestant  minister  before  our  arrival ; 
now  eight  or  nine.  There  was  no  organized  Methodism ; 
now  our  congregation  in  Victoria  is  the  largest,  I  be- 
lieve, in  the  Province,  and  over  five  thousand  people 
listen  to  our  ministers,  and  contribute  to  their  support 
nearly  six  thousand  dollars  a  year,  besides  building 
churches  and  parsonages.' 

At  the  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist  Episco- 
pal Church,  United  States,  begun  in  Cincinnati.  May 
1st,  1886,  the  Committee  on  the  Ecumenical  Council 
presented  an  elaborate  report.  Seven  Methodist 
churches  had  expressed  approval,  and  word  was  ex- 
pected from  others.  Suggestions  were  made  as  to  the 
appointing  of  committees  and  a  general  meeting.  The 
Committee  on  Lay  Representation  in  the  Annual  Con- 
ferences presented  a  plan  for  the  election  of  laymen. 
The  Revs.  William,  Arthur  and  F.  W.  McDonald,  Dele- 
gates from  the  English  Wesleyan  Conference,  were  in- 

364 


RELIEF   AND    EXTENSION 

troduced  ;  also  the  Rev.  Wm.  McMullen,  from  the  Irish 
Conference. 

The  Rev,  Enos  Langford  sends  interesting  particu- 
lars of  his  journey  to  Oxford  House,  the  heavy-ladened 
boats  of  the  Company  and  the  kind  attentions  of  offi- 
cers. During  a  delay  of  three  weeks  at  Norway  House 
he  was  able  to  assist  Mr.  German  and  witness  the 
work  of  Miss  Battle  in  her  school. 

'  We  reached  the  Fort  August  i6th,  1879,  strangers 
m  a  strange  land,  tired  and  hungry.  We  were  lighting 
a  fire  to  prepare  breakfast  when  a  H.  B.  officer  appeared 
and  cheerfully  said :  "  Come  with  me  " ;  and  by  his  kind 
wife  we  were  hospitably  entertained.  Finding  the  old 
parsonage  not  habitable  we  fitted  up  the  church  and 
lived  in  it  until  a  few  days  before  Christmas,  when  we 
moved  into  the  new  parsonage.  We  held  service  in  the 
open  air,  with  a  congregation  of  two  hundred,  and  for 
a  school  put  up  a  lean-to  against  the  church,  into  which 
Miss  Parkinson  gathered  about  seventy  children.  Before 
closing  the  school  in  October  Miss  P.  had  so  learned 
the  Cree  characters  as  to  teach  the  children,  and  many 
of  them  could  read  nicely.  Many  things  which  we  might 
say  about  our  work  we  reserve  for  a  future  time.' 

The  Rev.  George  Cochran,  writing  from  Japan  says : 

'  There  is  no  more  encouraging  feature  in  the  labors 
of  the  last  ten  years  than  the  wonderful  growth  and 
efficiency  of  woman's  work  for  heathen  women,  as  I  saw 
it  during  six  years.  Nearly  every  mission  has  a  girls' 
school,  under  the  care  of  Christian  women,  sent  out  and 
sustained  by  special  funds.  I  have  felt  it  as  the  one 
defect  in  our  mission  to  Japan  that  we  have  nothing  of 
the  kind.  I  am  glad  to  notice  in  a  report  of  the  Cen- 
tenary Church  missionary  meeting  that  this  lack  is 
awakening  attention.  The  needful  complement  of  a 
school  for  woman's  work  will,  we  trust,  receive  such 
generous  encouragement  as  to  render  it  at  no  distant 
day  an  accredited  part  of  our  agency  in  the  foreign  field.' 

This  is  another  call  for  women  to  help. 

The  Rev.  Wm.  Arthur  visited  Toronto  and  addressed 
the  District  Meeting  on  the  27th  of  May,  1880.     A  re- 

365 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

ception  was  tendered  him  in  the  evening,  when  minis- 
ters and  members  of  many  churches  gave  the  dis- 
tinguished visitor  a  hearty  Canadian  welcome.  On  Fri- 
day Mr.  Arthur  visited  Hamilton,  and  on  Sunday  morn- 
ing he  preached  in  the  ^Metropolitan  Church,  Toronto. 

New  churches  have  been  built  at  Holmesville,  Mara, 
Teeswater,  St.  Mary's,  Flamboro,  Arran,  Strathroy, 
Lynville,  Georgina  Island,  Newington,  Duffin's  Creek, 
Newmarket,  Thurlow,  Staffordshire,  Roblin,  Thomp- 
sonville,  Pene^^anguishene,  etc. 


Methodist  Church,  Strathcona. 


366 


CHAPTER  XXVII. 

1880-1. 

ECUMENICAL   COUNCIL  AND    UNION. 

Conferences — Colleges — Central  Board — Vitality — Ladies'  Society 
— Revivals — W.  M.  S. — Hamilton — Conferences,  1881 — Coun- 
cil— Lady   Macdonald— Hunt — Union — Ryerson. 

The  London  Conference  met  in  Wesley  Chnrcli, 
Hamilton,  on  the  2nd  of  June,  1880. 

President — Rev.  John  Wakefield. 

Secretary— Rev.  W.  R.  Parker,  M.A. 

Received  into  full  connection — Solomon  Cleaver,  B.A., 
Wellington  Bridgman,  Hugh  T.  Crossley,  Wesley  F. 
Campbell,  Augustus  Broadway,  Ephraim  B.  Stephenson, 
George  W.  Henderson,  and  Charles  Deacon. 

Their  reception  was  moved  by  the  Rev.  Alex.  Burns, 
LL.D.,  and  seconded  by  the  Rev.  Alex.  Lang^ford.  The 
ordination  sermon  was  preached  by  the  ex-President, 
Rev.  W.  S.  Griffin.  Nine  candidates  were  received  on 
probation.  Towards  the  Relief  and  Extension  Fund 
$111,803  had  been  subscribed  and  $70,880  paid  in. 
Total  number  of  members,  38,599;  decrease,  168. 

Died — Matthias  Holtby,  January  6th,  1880,  aged  81 
years. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Tuesday  afternon. 

The  Toronto  Conference  met  in  Bridge  St.  Church., 
Belleville,  June  6th,  1880. 

President— Rev.  N.  R.  Willoug-hby,  M.A. 
.    Secretary — Rev.    Samuel   J.   Hunter. 

Into  full  connection — Henry  Sherin.  John  M.  Wilkin- 
son, B.A.,  James  E.  Allen,  John  Power,  Thomas  Dunlop, 
Alfred  J.  Barltrop,  Stephen  A.  Arkels,  Thomas  McKee, 
Walter  W.  Eloyd. 

The  Rev.  John  Learoyd  moved  and  the  Rev.  Dr. 
Sutherland  seconded  their  reception.  The  Rev.  John 
Shaw  preached  the   ordination  sermon. 

367 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Eight  young  men  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — Wm.  McCulloch,  Sept.  19th,  1879,  aged  66  years. 
William  Irwin,  October  9th,  1879,  aged  43  years. 
Thomas  Derrick,  March  29th,  1880,  aged  65  years. 
Jonathan  Scott,  May  5th,  1880,  aged  77  years. 
Total  number  of  members,  36,854;  increase,  823. 
The  Conference  closed  on  Tuesday  afternoon. 
The  Montreal  Conference    met    in    Stanstead,    June 
i6th,  1880. 
President — Rev.  William  Hansford. 
Secretary — Rev.  Thomas  G.  Williams. 
Into  full  connection — Lewis  Conley.  Drummond  Mc- 
Cunn,  Martin  Bates,  John  Gibson,  David  C.  Sanderson, 
Delmer  E.  Mallory,  Joseph  Earl.  Chief    Joseph    Ones- 
akenarat. 

The  Rev.  Hugh  Johnston,  M.A.,  moved  and  the  Jlev. 
Fred  W.  McDonald,  of  the  English  Conference,  seconded 
their  reception.  The  Rev.  Mr.  McDonald  also  preached 
the  ordination  sermon. 

Six  candidates  were  received  on  probation. 
Died — James  E.  Werden,  Nov.  6th,  1879,  aged  32  years. 
Jabez  B.  Keough,  Dec.  27th,  1879,  aged  50  years. 
Alfred  E.  Jaques,  April  28th,  1880,  aged  27  years. 
J.  B.  Selley,  M.D..  May  loth,  1880,  aged  72  years. 
Total  number  of  members,  22,429;  increase,  56. 
The   Rev.    George   Douglas   and   Hon.    Tames   Ferrier 
were  elected  Delegates  to  the  Ecumenical  Conference; 
Rev.  Dr.  Elliott  and  Dr.  Skinner  alternates. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Wednesday  afternoon. 
The  Nova  Scotia  Conference  was  held  in  Truro,  N.  S., 
commencing  June  i6th,  1880.    The  Rev.  Richard  Smith 
was  elected  President  and  the  Rev.  Jabez  A.  Rogers, 
Secretary. 

Number  of  members,  9,612;  increase,  78. 
The  New  Brunswick  and  Prince  Edward  Island  Con- 
ference was  held  in  St.  John,  N.  B.,  commencing  June 
1 6th,  1880.     The  Rev.  Edwin  Evans  was  elected  Presi- 
dent and  Rev.  H.  P.  Cowperthwaite,  M.A.,  Secretary. 
Number  of  members,  8,218;  increase,  81. 

368 


ECUMENICAL    COUNCIL   AND    UNION 

The  Newfoundland  Conference  was  held  in  Carbonear. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Harris  was  elected  President  and 
Rev.  Charles  I^adner  was  re-elected  Secretary. 

Number  of  members,  7,686,  a  decrease  of  521. 

On  the  13th  of  July,  1880,  the  Revs.  Dr.  Rice,  T.  W. 
Hall,  Geo.  K.  Adams,  John  Mears,  and  Benj.  Franklin, 
B.A.,  left  for  the  North-West. 

By  the  Supreme  Court  of  New  Brunswick,  the  Can- 
ada Temperance  Act  was  declared  unconstitutional. 
This  decision  was  reversed  by  the  Supreme  Court  of  the 
Dominion.  The  question  was  then  appealed  to  the 
Privy  Council  of  England. 

The  Colleges  are  all  opening  with  brightening  pros- 
pects. An  important  change  has  been  made  in  the  staflF 
of  Ontario  Ladies'  College  in  securing  Miss  Mary  E. 
Adams,  of  Brookhurst  Academy,  Cobourg,  as  Lady 
Principal.  Under  the  oversight  of  so  experienced  a 
teacher  and  by  the  amalgamation  of  the  two  Institutions 
the  Whitby  College  should  maintain  and  surpass  the 
status  of  former  years. 

Rev.  John  McLean,  of  Fort  McLeod,  writes : 

'  My  work  till  this  week  has  been  chiefly  among  the 
whites  and  half-breeds,  with  what  little  I  could  do 
among  the  Blackfeet.  We  bep'an  school,  got  hold  of  a 
few  phrases  and  invited  the  children.  There  were  about 
800  Blood  Indians,  of  the  great  Blackfeet  nation,  here 
for  a  few  weeks  during  treatv  time.  My  wife  teaches 
half  the  time  and  I  the  other  half.  We  very  much  need 
books,  slates,  and  pencils.  Sunday  morning  I  preached 
a  funeral  sermon  for  young  Hooley  of  the  Mounted 
Police,  who  was  drowned  crossing  Belly  River.  I  seek 
my  congregation  in  club-room,  restaurant,  lodges,  and 
houses,  and  find  many  who  have  not  been  in  church  for 
years.  I  give  special  addresses  to  the  police  force,  and 
have  school  for  them  three  nights  a  week.  I  have  also 
started  a  monthly  paper — the  Excelsior — in  which  I  can 
give  news  and  strike  sins.  In  a  meeting  of  the  Indians 
they  wished  me  to  sing.    I  sang  "  The  Old,  Old  Story," 

369 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

prayed  with  them,  and  talked  through  an  interpreter. 
They  were  pleased,  and  wished  me  to  be  their  friend.' 

The  new  Hymn  Book,  authorized  by  the  General 
Conference,  has  been  published  and  seems  likely  to  give 
general  satisfaction. 

The  Annual  Meeting  of  the  Central  Board  of  Mis- 
sions was  opened  in  Montreal,  Oct.  19th,  1880,  the  Rev. 
Dr.  Douglas  presiding.  The  ordinary  income  for  the 
year  was  $131,204 — a  decrease  of  $4,029;  but  there  was 
a  decrease  in  expenditure  of  $9,054.  Total  amount 
subscribed  for  the  Relief  and  Extension  Fund — $116,- 
500;  amount  paid — $74,817.  A  request  was  presented 
from  the  Montreal  Conference  for  a  grant  of  $1,000 
towards  a  French  School ;  another  from  the  Committee 
of  Finance  for  the  establishment  of  an  Indian  Orphan- 
age and  Training  School  at  Morley  Mission.  The  for- 
mation of  a  Ladies'  Auxiliary  Missionary  Society  was 
cordially  approved. 

Sympathetic  record  was  made  of  the  prolonged  and 
painful  illness  of  the  Rev.  Dr.  Wood  and  the  gratitude 
felt  for  his  long  and  faithful  services. 

The  Rev.  Alexander  Sutherland  had  spent  about  four 
months  visiting  the  missions  of  the  North-West.  He 
thought  the  missionaries  were  keeping  pace  with  the  in- 
creasing population  and  was  delighted  with  his  visit. 

The  Revs.  Dr.  Douglas,  of  Montreal,  and  Dr.  Allison, 
of  Halifax,  were  appointed  Representatives  to  the 
Ecumenical  Executive  Committee. 

Miss  Catharine  Heck,  eldest  daughter  of  the  late 
Jacob  Heck  and  grand-daughter  of  Paul  and  Barbara 
Heck,  died  on  the  8th  of  Nov.,  1880,  at  the  residence 
of  her  cousin,  George  Heck,  near  the  Old  Blue  Church, 
within  one  month  of  88  years  of  age. 

Mr.  John  Elson,  of  London,  Ont.,  was  born  in  Exeter, 
England,  in  1806,  and  at  the  age  of  23  joined  the  Metho- 
dist Church.     In  1832  he  was  married  and  came  to  this 

370 


ECUMENICAL    COUNCIL    AND    UNION 

country.  After  a  short  stay  in  Port  Hope,  the  young 
couple  settled  in  London  in  1844.  Mr.  Elson  was  a 
faithful  member  of  the  Church,  a  class  leader  and  local 
preacher  until  his  useful  life  of  seventy-four  years 
reached  a  triumphant  end.  He  leaves  a  widow,  four 
sons    and  two  daughters. 

On  the  2nd  of  Dec,  1880,  Mrs.  Young,  wife  of  the 
Rev.  Dr.  Young,  Emerson,  Man.,  died  suddenly  from  an 
attack  of  pleurisy.  Her  death  was  deeply  felt — so  soon 
after  coming  to  their  new  home. 

'  Sarah  McCurdy,  wife  of  William  Hall,  Lennoxville, 
Que.,  died  October  25th,  1880,  aged  59  years.  When 
about  nineteen  years  of  age  she  was  converted,  under 
the  ministry  of  Rev.  Edmund  Botterell,  in  Sherbrooke, 
and  on  her  marriage  moved  to  Lennoxville,  where  she 
ever  kept  an  open  door  for  the  ministers.  When  the 
Methodist  Church  perished  in  the  fire  which  swept  the 
village  the  congregation  met  in  the  home  of  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Hall,  and  for  thirty  years  the  missionary  deputa- 
tions were  their  guests.  In  general  church  work  her 
services  were  invaluable.  Her  experience,  energy,  and 
devotion  helped  in  every  direction.  Through  the  illness 
which  ended  her  useful  life,  though  sufifering  intensely, 
she  feared  no  evil.  "Thy  rod  and  Thy  staff,  they  com- 
fort me."  ' 

James  Switzer  was  born  in  Elizabethtown,  New 
Jersey,  in  1813,  and  while  quite  young  came  to  this 
country  with  his  father's  family  and  settled  near  Streets- 
ville.  In  a  camp-meeting  he  sought  and  found  salvation. 
When  about  twenty-one  he  removed  to  the  Township  of 
Goderich,  as  one  of  the  first  settlers,  and  after  the  usual 
privations  had  a  comfortable  home,  but  felt  greatly  the 
lack  of  his  former  means  of  grace.  With  the  coming 
of  the  early  missionaries  he  was  set  to  work  as  an  ex- 
horter,  and  then  as  local  preacher.  In  time  he  became 
partially  blind,  but  knew  so  many  portions  of  Scripture 
and  hymns  that  he  was  seldom  at  a  loss  in  conducting 

371 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

services.  As  "  Father  Switzer "  he  was  well-known 
throughout  the  Goderich  region.  He  died  on  the  29th 
of  December,  1880. 

The  Ladies'  French  Missionary  Society,  of  Montreal, 
celebrated  its  third  Anniversary  on  the  21st  of  January, 
1881.  The  income — nearly  $500 — was  paid  out  for 
Bible  Reader,  $50;  parsonage  furniture,  $50;  church 
debt,  $209;  French  Institute,  $159;  sundries,  $24,  In 
three  years  this  Society  expended  over  $1,500. 

Immense  congregations  listened  to  the  sermons  of  the 
Rev.  Jesse  O.  Peck,  of  Brooklyn,  at  the  Missionary 
Anniversary,  and  to  his  lecture,  in  St.  James  Street 
Church,  Montreal. 

The  Rev.  Henry  F.  Bland  writes  of  the  Pembroke 
District : 

'  I  attended  the  missionary  meetings  at  Green  Lake 
and  West  Wilberforce,  Messrs.  Allum  and  Krupp  speak- 
ing in  German.  The  churches  are  log  buildings,  but 
comfortable ;  attendance  thirty  at  the  first  and  fifty  at 
the  second  meeting ;  cash  $50,  as  the  Germans  bring 
their  money  with  them.  Their  devoutness  and  hearti- 
ness impressed  me  much — so  like  the  Moravians.  They 
wish  to  retain  their  connection  with  the  Methodist 
Church.  The  young  people  speak  English.  I  left  by 
train  for  McKay's  Station,  forty-five  miles  up  the  Can- 
ada Central,  and  next  morning  to  Deux  Rivieres,  twenty- 
seven  miles,  where  Mrs.  P.  Evans,  of  Point  Alexander, 
received  me  kindly.  On  Sunday  I  preached  to  a  motley, 
but  attentive,  congregation,  in  two  rooms.  I  intended 
preaching  at  Mattawa,  22  miles  further,  in  the  evening, 
but  failed  of  a  conveyance.  It  will  be  an  important 
place  when  reached  by  the  railway.  Something  should 
be  done  for  the  Upper  Ottawa  region.  There  are  some 
800  men  working  on  the  line,  about  one-third  of  them 
Protestants,  and  it  is  computed  that  5,000  men  are 
engaged  in  lumbering.  In  this  great  hive  of  industry 
we  have  no  agent.  Beyond  a  Presbyterian  missionary 
at  Mattawa  and  an  occasional  visit  from  a  Bible  col- 
porteur I  know  of  no  provision  to  meet  their  need.' 

372 


ECUMENICAL   COUNCIL   AND   UNION 

Erastus  Lawrence  was  born  in  South  Stukely,  Que., 
in  1819,  and  in  1837  assisted  his  father  in  felHng  the 
trees  where  the  village  of  Lawrenceville,  Que.,  has 
since  sprung  up. 

*  In  early  life  he  was  a  member  of  the  New  Connexion 
Church,  and  when  the  Rev.  John  Armstrong,  of  Shef- 
ford  Circuit,  in  1858.  took  up  Lawrenceville  as  an 
appointment,  Erastus  Lawrence  was  appointed  leader. 
In  1869,  on  Lawrenceville  becoming  a  separate  mission, 
Mr.  Lawrence  was  recording  steward.  All  his  nine 
children  followed  the  example  of  their  parents  in 
choosing  early  the  good  way.  The  little  brick  church  is  a 
memento  of  Mr.  Lawrence's  faithful  devotion  to  the 
Lord's  cause  until  his  sudden  call — January  20th,  1881.' 

Judging  from  the  more  frequent  reports  of  revivals 
during  the  winter  months,  it  would  appear  that  seasons 
of  refreshing  have  come. 

Tidings  of  the  death  of  the  Rev.  William  Morley 
Punshon,  D.D.,  on  the  14th  of  April,  1881,  were 
received  with  unfeigned  sorrow  by  Methodists  of  both 
continents.  In  his  short  life  of  fifty-six  years  he  left  his 
impress  on  the  Methodism  of  the  Old  World  and  the 
New.  The  few  years  he  spent  in  Canada  as  President 
of  our  Conference  are  memorable  for  the  generous  aid 
and  inspiration  he  imparted  to  all  departments  of  church 
work.  His  domestic  and  personal  afflictions  awakened 
general  sympathy. 

'  At  Rose  Hall  during  our  services  of  six  weeks  there 
were  about  forty  seekers  of  salvation,  of  all  ages,  from 
the  old  man  of  seventy  to  children  of  ten.  Closing 
there,  we  opened  immediately  at  Wellington,  where 
"  the  bones  were  very  many  and  very  dry."  The  pre- 
vailing opinion  was  if  the  Lord  were  to  come  down 
from  heaven  and  work  a  miracle,  then  might  we  have  a 
revival  at  Wellington.  Trusting  in  God,  we  began.  On 
the  second  night  six  presented  themselves  for  prayer, 
some  of  whom  had  been  considered  hopeless.     At  the 

373 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

end  of  six  weeks  over  one  hundred  had  been  seeking. 
We  had  some  most  marked  cases  of  evanoehcal  repent- 
ance, saving  faith,  and  true  conversion.' 

According  to  instructions  from  the  last  General  Con- 
ference the  Central  Board  has  had  under  consideration 
the  organization  of  a  Woman's  Missionary  Society,  and 
the  General  Secretary  was  directed  to  lay  the  matter 
before  the  women  of  our  Church. 

In  June,  1880,  the  Secretary  met  a  number  of  women 
of  the  Centenary  Church,  Hamilton,  and  an  initial 
organization  was  effected.  At  a  subsequent  meeting, 
April  29th,  1881,  it  was  considered  advisable  that  there 
should  be  a  Connexional  Society,  with  Auxiliaries 
throughout  the  Church.  This  proposal  was  adopted, 
and  the  "  Woman's  Missionary  Society  of  the  Metho- 
dist Church  of  Canada  "  was  organized. 

Provisional  officers : 

President — Mrs.  Dr.  Burns,  Hamilton. 

Vice-Presidents^  Mrs.  John  McDonald,  Toronto; 
Mrs.  Judge  Jones,  Brantford ;  Mrs.  Charles  Morton, 
Montreal ;  Mrs.  George  H.  Starr,  Halifax ;  Mrs.  Howard 
Sprague,  St.  Stephen,  N.B. 

Secretary — Mrs.  Dr.   Strachan,  Hamilton. 

Treasurer— Mrs.  F.  W.  Watkins.  jr.,  Hamilton. 

Board  of  Management— "Vhe  Officers,  Mrs.  Dr.  Potts, 
Mrs.  Dr.  W.  T.  Aikens,  Toronto;  Mrs.  Sheriff  Glass, 
London ;  Mrs.  Dr.  Skinner,  Kingston ;  Mrs.  John  Wake- 
field, Mrs.  George  Brown,  Mrs.  J.  G.  Scott,  Mrs.  H. 
Clarke,  Mrs.  W.  E.  Sanford,  Mrs.  Field,  Hamilton. 

A  Constitution  was  adopted  and  arrangements  made 
for  another  meeting  to  complete  the  organization. 

That  meeting  was  held  on  the  8th  of  November,  1881. 
The  evening  of  that  dav  was  made  memorable  by  a 
meeting  in  Centenary  Church,  Hamilton,  when  addresses 
were  delivered  by  John  McDonald,  Esq.,  of  Toronto, 
Rev.  Thomas  Crosby  and  others,  and  contributions  for 
Hfe  membership  of  wives  and  daughters  received 
amounting  to  $1,000.     Thus    favorably    launched,   the 

374 


ECUMENICAL    COUNCIL    AND    UNION 

"  Woman's  Missionary  Society  "  undertook  to  assist  the 
French  Mission  in  Montreal,  the  Girls'  Home  at  Port 
Simpson,  the  McDougall  Orphanage,  and  to  support  a 
missionary  in  Japan. 

William  Jackson,  Downsview,  was  born  in  the  County 
of  Sligo,  Ireland,  in  1791,  and  died  February  i8th,  1881. 
In  May,  1826.  he  married  Jane  Duncan,  of  County  Lei- 
trim,  Ireland.  Coming  to  Canada,  they  found  a  new 
home  in  1827,  where  they  spent  the  rest  of  their  days. 
In  their  house  and  in  a  schoolhouse  on  their  farm 
religious  services  were  held  by  Revs.  William  Ryerson, 
John  Beaty,  and  other  ministers,  in  which  they  found 
great  delight.  For  about  fifty  years  they  helped  to  main- 
tain the  privileges  of  the  sanctuary — until  Mrs.  Jackson 
was  called  home.  Mr.  Jackson,  with  his  numerous 
family — nine  of  twelve  still  living — continued  in  faith- 
ful attachment  to  the  church  of  liis  choice,  until  he,  too, 
heard  the  summons,  and,  at  the  age  of  ninety-one,  de- 
parted to  be  with  Christ,  leaving  an  example  of  fidelity, 
liberality,  and  integrity  for  generations  to  come. 

Churches  were  recently  opened  in  Princeton,  Delhi, 
Huntingdon,  Morrisburg,  Forfar,  Williamsford,  etc. 

The  Montreal  Conference  was  held  in  Napanee,  com- 
mencing on  the  25th  of  May,  1881.  The  Rev.  Henry 
F.  Bland  was  elected  President  and  the  Rev.  Joel  T. 
Pitcher  Secretary. 

Received  into  full  connection — Robert  W.  McKechnie. 
Charles  R.  Flanders,  B.A.,  Walter  W.  Madge,  B.A., 
Melvin  Taylor,  Thomas  J.  Mansel,  William  R.  Young, 
George  H.  H.  Davis. 

The  reception  of  the  young  men  was  moved  by  Rev. 
William  Galbraith,  B.C.L.,  and  seconded  by  Rev.  James 
Elliott,  D.D.  The  ordination  sermon  was  preached  by 
the  Rev.  Dr.  Sutherland. 

The  London  Conference  assembled  in  Brantford  June 
1st,  1881.  The  Rev.  Alex.  Langford  was  elected  Presi- 
dent and  the  Rev.  William  C.  Henderson,  M.A.,  Secre- 
tary.    A  resolution  was  adopted  expressing  deep  sorrow 

375 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

and  sympathy  on  account  of  the  fearful  disaster  on  the 
Thames,  May  24th,  in  which  218  excursionists  were 
drowned.  Mr.  Wm.  McBride,  for  many  years  an  official 
member  of  the  Methodist  Church,  and  an  ex-Mayor  of 
London,  was  one  of  the  victims. 

Received  into  full  connection — Samuel  H.  Edwards, 
James  H.  White,  James  W.  Shilton,  B.A.,  Ezra  A.  Fear, 
William  Penhall,  James  G.  Foote,  Samuel  O.  Irvine, 
John  Stewart,  George  W.  Dean,  David  A.  Moir,  George 
R.  Turk,  Alfred  A.  Bowers,  Alfred  E.  Smith. 

The  Rev.  W.  R.  Parker,  M.A.,  moved  and  the  Rev. 
John  A.  Williams,  D.D.,  seconded  their  reception.  The 
ordination  sermon  was  preached  by  the  Rev.  Dr.  Doug- 
las. Ten  candidates  were  received  on  trial.  The  Rev. 
Thomas  R.  McNair,  who  returned  from  the  United 
States,  and  Rev.  Thomas  Boyd,  of  the  Primitive  Metho- 
dist Church,  were  received. 

Died—YLsW  Christopherson,  Aug.  3rd,  1880,  aged  45  years. 
Joseph  Guest,  December  12th,  1880,  aged  31  years. 
Wilham  Hawke,  April  6th,  188 1,  aged  57  years. 

The  Conference  concurred  in  the  action  of  the  Special 
Committee  in  appointing  the  Revs.  John  Wakefield  and 
Ed.  B.  Ryckman,  D.D.,  Delegates  to  the  Ecumenical 
Council.     The  Conference  closed  on  Tuesday  afternoon. 

The  Toronto  Conference  met  in  Brampton  on  the  8th 
of  June,  1 88 1.  The  Rev.  John  G.  Laird  was  elected 
President  and  the  Rev.  Samuel  J.  Hunter  Secretary. 

Into  full  connection— W\\\\2.m  Bacon,  William  Strong- 
man, B.A.,  Robert  B.  Laidley,  Lewis  W.  Hill,  B.A., 
Edward  Eves,  George  Wesley  Marvin,  Thomas  B. 
Beynon,  B.A.,  Joseph  Edge,  Enos  Langford,  John 
McLean,  Alfred  E.  Green,  Tsuneyasu  Hiraiwa,  As- 
agawa  Koko. 

The  Rev.  William  H.  Laird  moved  and  the  Rev.  Wil- 
liam J.  Hunter  seconded  their  reception.  The  Rev.  Dr. 
Douglas  preached  the  ordination  sermon. 

Eleven  young  men  were  received  on  trial. 
376 


ECUMENICAL    COUNCIL   AND    UNION 

Died — Elias  Battell,  August  6th,  1880,  aged  25  years. 

John  Sanderson,  August  13th,  1880,  aged  85  years. 
Ephraim  L.  Koyl,  Nov.  21st,  1880,  aged  66  years. 
Robert  Darlington,  April  4th,  1881,  aged  74  years. 
Thomas  Hamilton,  May  21st,  1881,  aged  71  years. 
The  Conference  closed  on  Tuesday. 

The  Nova  Scotia  Conference  was  held  at  Granville 
Ferry.  The  Rev.  John  Lathern  was  elected  President 
and  the  Rev.  Jabez  A.  Rogers  Secretary. 

The  Newfoundland  Conference  was  held  at  St.  John's. 
President,  Rev.  Charles  Ladner ;  Secretary,  Rev.  George 
Boyd. 

The  New  Brunswick  and  Prince  Edward  Island  Con- 
ference was  held  in  Moncton,  N.B.,  commencing  June 
22nd,  1881.  President,  Rev.  Douglas  Chapman;  Secre- 
tary, Rev.  H.  P.  Cowperthwaite,  M.A. 

Into  full  connection — John  Esty,  Cyrus  S.  Wells,  and 
William  E.  Johnson,  B.A. 

Three  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 

The  great  Representative  Assembly  of  Methodism, 
called  the  Ecumenical  Council,  ma}'  be  said  to  have 
begun  its  sessions  at  a  breakfast  in  Exeter  Hall,  London, 
given  by  the  Religious  Book  and  Tract  Society.  This 
gathering  of  four  hundred  Delegates,  representing  some 
twenty  millions  of  people  scattered  over  the  globe,  was 
intensely  interesting.  Asia,  as  well  as  Europe  and 
America,  has  its  representatives,  the  wilderness  as  well 
as  the  cities,  the  laity  as  well  as  ministers.  After  the 
repast  letters  were  read  from  correspondents  in  many 
parts  of  the  world  and  addresses  were  delivered  by 
several  members.  A  copious  and  elaborate  program 
indicates  the  great  variety  of  subjects  to  be  considered. 
Free  and  open  discussion  was  expected,  although  some 
live  questions,  fruitful  of  debate  and  possibly  of  divi- 
sion were  avoided.  That  '  all  things  should  be  done  to 
edification  '  seems  to  have  been  intended. 

377 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Methodism  is  seen  to  be  clothed  with  a  world-wide 
significance,  and  the  influence  of  the  Council  will  be 
borne  to  remotest  centres  of  operation.  By  the  papers, 
secular  as  well  as  religious,  its  proceedings  were  pub- 
lished to  all  the  world,  and  drew  universal  attention  to 
the  purposes  and  progress  of  this  great  sisterhood  of 
churches  called  Methodism  as  never  before.  The  sub- 
jects discussed  are  living  issues,  grand  essentials  in  the 
character,  work,  and  progress  of  the  Church,  and  the 
exhaustive  consideration  of  these  great  themes  must 
quicken  and  strengthen  the  manifold  activities  to  which 
Methodism  in  all  lands  stands  committed. 

'  As  the  intellectual  wealth  and  rich  experience  of  the 
essayists  and  speakers  have  been  developed  it  has 
become  manifest  that  the  strength  and  influence  of 
Methodism  had  not  been  appreciated,  even  by  Metho- 
dists themselves.  The  moral  and  spiritual  forces  in- 
herent in  the  Methodist  Churches  of  both  continents  will 
not  only  be  augmented,  but  will  flow  outward  like  Eze- 
kiel's  river,  blessing  whatever  it  touches.  Many  of  the 
topics  are  of  as  much  interest  to  other  religious  bodies 
as  to  Methodists ;  and  if  the  word  religion  had  been 
substituted  for  Methodism,  many  of  the  essays  and 
speeches  would  have  suited  other  assemblies.' 

The  formal  opening  of  the  Council  was  made  in  City 
Road  Chapel  at  lo  o'clock  September  14th,  1881,  the 
Rev.  Dr.  Osborne  leading  the  service  of  praise  and 
prayer.  The  opening  sermon  by  Bishop  Simpson,  from 
John  vi.  63 :  "  The  words  that  I  speak  unto  you,  they 
are  spirit  and  they  are  life,"  gave  tone  and  inspiration  to 
the  Council. 

A  circular  letter  was  issued  by  the  Council  bearing 
brotherly  greetings  to  all  members  of  the  great  Metho- 
dist family,  with  a  consensus  of  opinion  reached  on 
many  important  subjects  considered  during  the  sessions. 
The  paragraphs  bearing  on  the  fraternity  of  Methodists, 

378 


ECUMENICAL   COUNCIL   AND   UNION 

missionary,  educational,  and  revival  work  are  specially 
opportune.  The  impulse  given  to  Union  will  be  appre- 
ciated in  Canada. 

To  Dr.  Douglas,  as  President  of  our  General  Confer- 
e'lce,  was  giveii  a  place  of  honor  among  the  Bishops, 
and  to  Dr.  Sutherland  a  seat  with  the  Secretaries. 

Mr.  John  Hunt,  of  Brampton,  *  was  born  in  Lincoln- 
shire, England,  in  1793,  came  to  this  country  about  1830, 
and  settled  in  the  Township  of  Toronto,  where  for  fifty 
years  his  zeal  and  abilities  as  local  preacher  have  been 
widely  known  and  highly  appreciated.  In  prayer-meet- 
ings, class-meetings,  and  love-feasts  his  freedom,  origin- 
ality, and  force  quickened  and  edified.  He  died  in  Bramp- 
ton, September  19th,  1881,  on  his  ninety-eighth  birthday. 
By  a  lady  who  knew  him  well  a  handful  of  ripe  ears  of 
wheat  was  laid  upon  his  coffin,  with  the  words :  "  Thou 
shalt  come  to  thy  grave  in  a  full  age,  like  a  shock  of  corn 
cometh  in  his  season."     The  Rev.  John  Hunt  is  a  son.' 

Few  women  in  Montreal  were  more  generally  known 
or  more  highly  esteemed  than  Mrs.  Ferrier,  wife  of  the 
Hon.  James  Ferrier,  who  died  September  24th,  188 1. 
Her  genuine  Christian  character  shone  out  in  constant 
good-doing — a  stand-by  in  the  Church  for  every  good 
work;  a  helper  to  the  needy,  wise  in  counsel  and  ener- 
getic in  action.  Many  ministers  have  good  reason  to 
remember  her  generous  hospitality  and  her  helpful  sym- 
pathy in  their  work. 

Tributes  from  many  lands  have  been  paid  to  the 
memory  of  the  Rev.  Lachlin  Taylor,  D.D.,  who  died  in 
a  seaside  home  on  the  4th  of  September,  1881,  aged  66 
years.  A  few  words  of  a  private  letter  from  a  lady  in 
Charlottetown  may  voice  the  experience  of  many: 

'  The  first   sermon   he   preached    in    our   city,   eleven 

years  ago,  will  ever  live  in  our  memories.       Who  can 

forget  his  talking  and  lecturing  on  the    Holy^   Land — 

, "  pressed  by  our  Saviour's   feet " — or  the  sympathy  he 

379 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

felt  and  showed  for  those  on  whom  rested  the  chastening 
of  the  Lord?  No  more  can  we  look  upon  his  bright, 
intelligent  face  nor  hold  sv/eet  fellowship  on  earth ;  but 
we  shall  meet  him  in  the  New  Jerusalem.' 

By  the  fireside,  in  the  pulpit,  on  the  platform,  the  fire 
and  pathos  of  Dr.  Taylor's  Highland  speech  captured  all 
hearts.  As  traveller,  lecturer,  preacher,  companion,  and 
friend  Canada  has  produced  few  men  more  worthy  of 
remembrance.  For  some  years  Dr.  Taylor  suffered  from 
heart  weakness  and  his  life  ebbed  away  in  prostration. 

On  the  25th  of  October,  1881,  the  Missionary  Board 
met  in  the  Mission  Rooms  for  the  annual  meet- 
ing. The  income  for  the  past  year  was  $134,842.  an 
advance  of  about  $7,000.  A  missionary  breakfast  was 
given  in  the  Metropolitan  Church,  which  proved  inter- 
esting and  inspiring.  Through  the  Relief  and  Extension 
Fund  the  debt  of  $67,786  had  been  paid,  and  a  surplus 
of  about  $15,000  was  available  for  extension. 

A  union  meeting,  to  hear  from  Delegates  to  the  Ecu- 
menical Council  was  held  in  the  Carlton  Street  Primi- 
tive Methodist  Church.  Toronto,  on  the  7th  of  December. 
There  was  a  large  attendance  and  a  most  delightful 
spirit  of  unity  prevailed. 

'  It  may  be  largely  due  to  the  harmonious  association' 
and  brotherly  fellowship  of  the  various  branches  of 
Methodism  that  a  marked  revival  of  union  sentiment  is 
apparent  in  Canada.  Some  of  the  hindrances  seem  less 
formidable,  certain  concessions  seem  nrobable,  and 
further  negotiation  is  evidently  desired.' 

Wise  men  from  the  East: 

'  In  social  intercourse  several  brethren  in  the  eastern 
part  of  Ontario  conceived  the  thought  that  the  time  was 
drawing  nigh  when  steps  should  be  taken  to  test  the 
strength  of  union  sentiment  among  the  ministers  and 
laity  in  these  parts.  A  meeting  was  held  December  15th, 
1881,  in  the   Methodist  Episcopal   Church,   Morrisburg. 

380 


ECUMENICAL    COUNCIL   AND    UNION 

The  M.  E.  Church  was  represented  by  Revs.  William  H. 
Graham,  P.E.,  A.  D.  Traveller,  Thomas  W.  Mavety, 
William  Blair,  William  Brown,  and  Thomas  W.  Pickett ; 
the  Methodist  Church  of  Canada  by  Revs.  Thomas  G. 
Williams,  Chairman;  Andrew  A.  Smith,  John  Scanlon, 
William  Galbraith,  James  Kines,  and  James  Allen,  M.A. 
After  praverful  consultation  it  was  unanimously 
resolved : 

1.  That  the  union  of  the  Methodist  churches  in  Can- 
?da  is  desirable. 

2.  That  there  are  no  insuperable  barriers  in  the  way 
of  its  accomplishment. 

3.  That  a  Convention  be  held  in  Iroquois,  on  the  ist 
day  of  February,  1.30  p.m..  in  the  Methodist  Church  of 
Canada,  to  be  composed  of  all  the  ministers  and  mem- 
bers of  Quarterly  Conferences  in  the  Brockville  and 
Ottawa  Districts'  of  the  Methodist  Church  of  Canada 
and  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  respectively ._  for 
the  purpose  of  discussing  Methodist  Union;  and,  if  the 
way  seem  clear,  to  take  such  further  steps  as  shall  bring 
the    matter    before    the    churches    in    an    ofificial    way.'— 

Methodist   Union. 

The  subject  was  kept  before  the  people  by  frequent 
correspondence  in  the  papers.  Many  questions  incidental 
to  union  also  received  attention — the  part  of  laymen 
in  the  work  and  government  of  the  Church,  the  consti- 
tution of  the  Stationing  and  Transfer  Committees,  etc. 

Ann  Dulmage,  another  of  the  Palatine  Methodists, 
was  born  in  the  County  of  Tipperary,  Ireland,  and  came 
with  her  parents  to  Canada  in  1830.  They  settled  in 
Trafalgar,  and  seven  years  later  Ann  became  the  wife 
of  Mr.  William  Switzer.  Together  they  lived  in  fellow- 
ship with  the  Methodist  Church  until  she  was  sum- 
moned, December  23rd,  1881,  at  the  age  of  62  years,  to 
leave  earth  for  heaven. 

On  New  Year's  morning,  1882,  some  2,800  scholars 
of  the  Montreal  Methodist  Sunday  Schools  brought  in 

381 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

$3,394    for    the    missionary    treasury — nearly    $200    in 
advance  of  the  previous  year. 
Prince  Arthur's  Landing: 

'  We  are  cut  off  from  the  outside  world.  Early  in 
November  the  mail  steamers  ceased  to  ply  between 
Duluth  and  Eastern  ports.  Until  Christmas  we  had 
weekly  visits  from  a  small  United  States  tug.  Our 
magnificent  bay  was  free  from  ice  until  the  last  week  of 
the  old  year.  We  had  two  mails  by  dog  train  from 
Duluth  and  the  promise  of  more.  We  look  forward  with 
great  expectations  to  next  summer,  and  expect  large 
accessions  through  the  opening  of  the  C.P.R.  to  Winni- 
peg. The  people  here  are  exceedingly  social  and  liberal. 
We  had  a  successful  tea-meeting  December  22nd ;  the 
following  evening  our  Sunday  school  anniversary  and 
Christmas  tree,  with  a  good  programme.  There  are  no 
works  going  on,  and  our  people  are  fewer  than  ever, 
yet  we  have  raised  $156.' — Osborn  Lambly. 

The  Christian  Guardian  of  February  22nd  appeared 
in  deep  mourning  for  the  Rev.  Egerton  Ryerson,  LL.D., 

who  died  on  Sunday  morning,  February   19th,   1882,  at 
the  age  of  79  years. 

"  A  prince  and  a  great  man  has  fallen  in  Israel."  A 
strenuous  life  has  reached  its  close.  During  his  public 
life  of  fifty-seven  years  no  man  has  been  more  thor- 
oughly identified  with  the  best  interests  of  his  country 
than  Egerton  Ryerson.  Scattered  through  the  pages  we 
have  written  will  be  found  many  evidences  of  the  faith, 
the  love,  the  zeal  which  inspired  his  whole  life.  In  him 
were  strangely  combined  the  simplicity  of  a  child,  the 
tenderness  of  a  woman,  the  courage  of  a  lion.  His 
monuments  are  around  us — in  our  schools,  in  our 
churches,  in  our  legislative  halls.  Not  by  the  massive 
form,  erect  upon  the  granite  pedestal,  fronting  the  scene 
of  his  great  life-work,  will  he  be  chiefly  remembered. 
He  has  reared  a  monument  more  lasting  than  brass,  and 
we  have  good  hope — yea,  blessed  assurance — that  "  his 
record  is  on  high."  ' 

Jonas  CannifT  was  born  in  1789,  and  when  four  years 
382 


ECUMENICAL    COUNCIL    AND    UNION 

of  age  came  with  his  father,  a  U.  E.  Loyalist,  to  Adol- 
phustown.  In  1815  he  settled  in  Thurlow,  and  became 
influential  in  the  township.  With  his  wife  he  joined  the 
Methodist  Church  in  1823. 

'  He  was  a  class  leader  for  twenty  years ;  helped  to 
build  the  Pinnacle  Street  Church,  Belleville,  of  which 
he  was  for  many  years  the  mainstay;  assisted  in  organ- 
izing the  first  Missionary  Society  in  Canada,  and  liberally 
supported  it.  His  life  of  92  years,  marked  by  integrity 
and  devotion,  came  to  a  peaceful  end  Feb.  15th,  1882.' 

On  the  27th  of  February  an  informal  meeting  of 
Representatives  of  the  Wesleyan,  Primitive,  and  Metho- 
dist Episcopal  Churches  was  held  in  Brampton,  when 
the  prospects  for  Union  were  considered  in  the  most 
brotherly  and  hopeful  spirit.  This  was  followed  by  a 
general  Convention  on  the  23rd  of  March,  in  which  the 
question  of  L^nion  was  very  favorably  considered  by 
Representatives  of  all  the  Churches. 

At  a  meeting  of  ministers  and  laymen,  held  in  the 
Mission  Rooms,  March  9th,  1882,  it  was  resolved: 

'  That  this  meeting  very  cordially  endorse  the  propo- 
sal to  endow  a  Chair  of  Mental  and  Moral  Philosophy 
in  Victoria  University,  in  memory  of  the  late  Rev. 
Egerton  Ryerson,  D.D.,  LL.D.,  to  be  known  as  the 
"  Ryerson  Chair,"  and  that  the  amount  of  Endowment 
be  fixed  at  $35,000.' 

One  gentleman  present  offered  $1,000  towards  the 
Chair,  and  suggested  a  fund  of  $200,000  for  the  better 
equipment  of  all  our  Colleges ;  to  such  a  fund  he  was 
ready  to  contribute  $10,000. 

Margaret  Graham,  daughter  of  Capt.  Graham,  of  the 
British  Army,  was  born  in  County  Cavan,  Ireland,  Janu- 
ary 20th,  1790.  In  1818,  with  her  husband,  Charles 
Hurdman,  she  came  to  Canada.  For  six  years  they 
lived  at  Hull,  then  moved  a  few  miles  up  the  Aylmer 
road,  where  they  spent  the   rest  of  their  years.     Mr. 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Hurdman  died  in  1847.     In  Hull  Mrs.  Hurdman  united 
with  the  Methodist  Church. 
The  Rev.  James  ElHott  writes : 

'  When  I  first  knew  Mrs.  Hurdman,  thirty-five  years 
ago,  she  was  an  established  Christian,  a  Methodist  of  the 
original  stamp,  and  she  reaped  the  fruits  in  a  happy 
heart  and  a  useful  life.' 

Of  herself  she  said :  "My  early  life  was  very  pleasant ; 
my  middle  life  was  full  of  care  and  trouble;  my  old  age 
has  been  calm,  peaceful  and  blessed  with  every  comfort." 

She  died  on  the  15th  of  March,  1882,  aged  92  years. 


Metropolitan  Church,  Victoria,  B.C. 


384 


1.  Dean,  Jud(fe  U.W.  2.  Mrs.  A.  U.  Rutherford        :i.  Hobinsoii,  Mr.  George 

4.  Crosby,  Rev.  Thos.,  D.D.     5.  Mrs.  Thomas  Crosby  6.  Allen,  Rev.  James,  M.A. 

7.  Brecken,  Ralph,  U.D.  S.  Withrow,  W.  H.,  D.D.        It.  O'Flynn,  Mr.  E.  D. 


CHAPTER  XXVIII. 

1882-3. 

THE  METHODIST   CHURCH. 

Conferences — Kilgour — W.  C.  T.  "  U. — M.  E.  Conference — Gen- 
eral Conference — W.  M.  S. — Union  Committees — Basis — 
Churches — Cartmell — Conferences,  1883 — General  Conference 
— Union    Consummated — Statistics. 

The  Montreal  Conference  was  opened  in  the  Domin- 
ion Square  Church,  May  31st,  1882. 

President — Rev.  Ezra  A.  Stafford. 

Secretary — Rev.  Marmaduke  L.  Pearson. 

Into  full  connection — James  Lawson,  Albert  Holden, 
John  V.  McDowell,  and  Barry  Pierce. 

Their  reception  was  moved  by  Rev.  William  Hansford 
and  seconded  by  Rev.   Stephen  Bond.     The  ordination 
sermon  was  preached  by  Rev.  Henry  F.  Bland. 
Died — John  Tomkins,  Sept.  21st,  i88r,  aged  84  years. 
Edward  A.  Ward,  Dec.  5th,  1881,  aged  58  years. 

Resolutions  of  appreciation  and  commemoration  were 
adopted  regarding  Dr.  Egerton  Ryerson  and  Dr.  Lachlin 
Taylor  and  grateful  testimony  was  borne  to  the  work 
they  had  accomplished   for  their   Church   and   country. 

Six  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 

The  Committee  reported  that  indications  were  favor- 
able for  Union.  Conference  closed  on  Wednesday  after- 
noon. 

The  London  Conference  opened  in  Woodstock  June 
7th,  1882.  The  Rev.  William  Williams  was  elected 
President  and  the  Rev.  John  Philp,  M.A.,  Secretary. 
The  Revs.  William  Briggs,  Dr.  Dewart,  and  Dr.  With- 
row  presented  reports  of  their  several  departments,  and 
were  heard  with  much  satisfaction. 

25  385 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Received  into  full  connection — Harvey  M.  Hall,  John 
E.  Hunter,  Edmund  E.  Scott,  John  H.  joslyn,  Albert  C. 
Crews,  Ebenezer  B.  Lanceley,  William  J.  Brandon, 
James  H.   Hazlewood,  Richard  Redmond. 

The  Rev.  Donald  G.  Sutherland  moved  and  the  Rev. 
Dr.  George  R.  Sanderson  seconded  a  motion  for  their 
reception.  The  ordination  sermon  was  preached  by 
Rev.  Dr.  Douglas.  Seven  young  men  were  received  on 
trial. 

Died — William  Taylor,  Dec.  ist,  1881,  aged  49  years. 
Wm.  McCann,  Dec.  nth,  1881,  aged  48  years. 
George  C.  Madden,  Feb.  6th.  1882,  aged  39  years. 
Henry  Reid,  April  i6th,  1881,  aged  71  years. 
James  Shaw,  April  30th,  1881,  aged  62  years. 
The  Conference  closed  on  Wednesday  afternoon. 
The    Toronto    Conference    met     in     the     Elm    Street 
Church,   Toronto,   June    14th,    1882.       The    Rev.   Alex. 
Sutherland,  D.D.,  was  elected  President  and  the  Rev. 
William  H.  Laird,  Secretary. 

Received  in  full  connection — Edward  D.  Lewis, 
James  Liddy,  Wm.  Marshall,  Thomas  B.  Steel,  Matthew 
B.  Conron,  David  N.  McCamus,  B.A.,  George  K. 
Adams,  Benjamin  Greatrix,  Henry  S.  Jenkinson,  John 
E.  Starr,  Wm.  J.  Barkwell,  B.A.  Joseph  C.  Bell  was 
received  from  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church. 

Their  reception  was  moved  by  Rev.  George  Cochran, 
D.D.,  and  seconded  by  Rev.  John  S.  Clarke. 

The  Rev.  George  Douglas,  D.D.,  preached  the  ordina- 
tion sermon. 

Nineteen  young  men  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — Richard  Potter,  June  29th,  1881,  aged  52  5^ears. 
James  Seymour,  Aug.  8th,  188 1,  aged  83  years. 
Edward  Morrow,  Aug.  31st,  188 1,  aged  41  3^ears. 
L.  Taylor,  D.D.,  Sept.  4th,  1881,  aged  66  years. 
Thomas  McMullen.  Dec.  nth,  1881,  aged  78  years. 
Philip  J.  Roblin,  Dec.  i6th.  1881,  aged  84  years. 
David  Williams,  Jan.  23rd,  1882.  aged  45  years. 
E.  Ryerson,  LL.D..  Feb.  19th,  1882,  aged  79  years. 
H.  Bawtinhimer,  April  15th,  1882,  aged  54  years. 

386 


THE  METHODIST  CHURCH 

A  resolution  in  appreciation  of  the  life  and  labors  of 
the  Rev.  Egerton  Ryerson,  LL.D.,  was  adopted. 

The  Revs.  Robert  Cade,  D.D.,  and  James  C.  Antliff, 
M.A.,  of  the  Primitive  Methodist  Church,  and  the  Revs. 
Fred  W.  Bourne  and  Edward  Roberts,  of  the  Bible 
Christian  Church,  were  introduced. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Thursday  afternoon. 

The  Nova  Scotia  Conference  was  held  in  Windsor, 
beginning  June  21st,  1882. 

President — Rev.  Wm.  C.  Brown. 

Secretary — Rev.  Cranswick  Jost,  M.A. 

The  Rev.  ©rs.  Young  and  Douglas  were  introduced. 

Received  into  full  connection — Wm.  H.  Langille,  Fred. 
A.  Buckley,  Wm.  A.  Outerbridge. 

Died — Elias   Brettle,  Dec.  9th,   1881,  aged  63  years. 

Members,  Q.284;  on  trial,  411. 

Each  Conference  elected  its  quota  of  delegates  to  the 
General  Conference. 

'  In  1840  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Kilgour,  with  their  family, 
arrived  from  Scotland  and  settled  in  Clarendon.  Find- 
ing no  Presbyterian  Church  the  parents  diligently  in- 
structed their  children  in  the  Scriptures  and  Shorter 
Catechism.  Under  the  labors  of  a  Methodist  proba- 
tioner, Wm.  Morton,  during  the  years  1843-4,  a  wonder- 
ful revival  spread  with  marvellous  power  through  all 
that  region.  One  of  the  converts  having  seen  some  of 
the  Kilgour  family  at  one  of  the  meetings  visited  them, 
and  to  the  mother  expressed  the  hope  that  her  daugh- 
ters would  find  religion.  "  Do  vou  think  my  daughters 
are  not  religious?"  said  she.  "Yes,  but  should  they  '  ex- 
perience religion,'  as  some  others  have  done,  you  would 
see  a  marked  change."  They  continued  to  attend,  and 
one  night  as  their  mother  opened  the  door  on  their  re- 
turn, one  of  them,  embracing  her,  exclaimed  "  Mother, 
we've  all  been  in  the  dark ;  Janet  and  I  never  had  relig- 
ion until  to-night !"  Before  they  retired  the  mother  was 
on  her  knees  and  her  daughters  praying  for  her.  She, 
too,  "  found  religion  "  and  declared — "  God  had  led  her 
by  a  way  she  knew  not."  She  did  not  rest  until  the 
whole  family  rejoiced  together  in  the  same  experience. 

387 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Her  example  and  influence  proved  a  blessing-  to  many. 
Her  eldest  son,  Joseph,  became  a  Methodist  minister. 
Her  husband  went  before  her  to  the  better  land,  and  on 
the  2ist  of  April,  1882,  in  the  eightieth  year  of  her  age, 
lanet  Norval  Kilgour  peacefully  ended  her  useful  and 
happy  life.'— D.  C.  McDowell. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  Crosby,  after  a  few  months  in 
Ontario,  greatly  helping  to  deepen  interest  in  missions, 
left  with  his  family,  June  29th,  for  his  distant  field  on 
the  Pacific.  Accompanying  him  were  Rev.  William  J. 
Dowler,  B.A.,  for  Maple  Ridge;  Rev.  James  A.  Wood, 
for  Bella  Coola;  Rev.  Dennis  Jennings,  apd  Miss  Hen- 
drie,  who  goes  to  take  charge  of  the  Girls'  Home.  In 
bidding  farewell  Mr.  Crosby  said: 

'  Since  October  I  have  travelled  8,000  miles,  attended 
hundreds  of  meetings  and  hope  for  great  increase  of 
missionary  funds.  We  thank  God  and  the  many  friends 
who  have  shown  us  so  much  kindness.' 

The  decision  of  the  Privy  Council,  declaring  the  Scott 
Act  valid,  will  greatly  help  temperance  work  in  the 
Dominion. 

Since  the  organization  of  the  Women's  Christian 
Temperance  Union  in  1874  and  the  forming  of  a  local 
Union  in  Owen  Sound,  the  women  of  Canada  have  taken 
hold  of  temperance  work  with  persevering-  intensity.  In 
the  Ontario  and  Dominion  W.C.T.U.'s  the  eflForts  of 
many  earnest  and  capable  women  have  been  enlisted, 
among  whom  Mrs.  Letitia  Youmans,  as  President,  and 
Mrs.  Annie  O.  Rutherford,  as  Secretary,  have  done 
valiant  and  effective  service.  Successive  Acts  of  legis- 
lation for  the  restriction  and  abolishing-  of  the  liquor 
traffic  are  largely  due  to  their  persistent  advocacy. 

Western  work : 

'Yesterday  we  held  our  first  services  in  our  new 
Tabernacle  at  Rat  Portage.  On  Kridav  evening,  while 
practicing  singing,  a  poor  fellow  who  had  been  a  fore- 
man on  the  line,  hearing  the  organ,  came  in.     He  had 

388 


THE  METHODIST  CHURCH 

been  drinking,  but  softened  and  sobered  by  the  singing, 
tears  rolling  down  his  cheeks,  he  took  my  hand,  and 
said — "  Oh^  that  there  were  more  places  like  this  and 
fewer  saloons !"  The  work  between  here  and  Thunder 
Bay  is  being  pushed  and  soon  we  shall  have  a  highway 
into  our  great  North-West.' — W.  H. 

Oak  Lake,  July  6th,  1882 : 

'  Our  Temperance  Colonization  party  are  camped 
sixty  miles  west  of  this  place,  pushing  on  to  South  Sas- 
katchewan. Track-laying  on  the  C.  P.  R.,  two  miles  a 
day.     Country  looking  lovely.' — John  N.  Lake. 

The  Revised  New  Testament : 

"  I  greatly  value  the  Revised  Version.  It  is  very  use- 
ful in  the  study  and  for  the  pulpit.  Yet  I  do  not  think 
it  will  prevail  in  its  present  shape,  because  it  makes 
changes  where  nothing  is  gained  thereby,  either  in 
sense,  in  force,  or  beauty ;  and  because,  in  many  cases 
by  a  too  servile  adherence  to  Greek  idiom,  it  sacrifices 
unnecessarily  the  rhythm  and  euphony  of  the  Author- 
ized Version." — Dr.  H.  M.  Scudder. 

The  General  Conference  of  the  Canada  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  met  in  August,  1882 ;  after  con- 
sideration of  the  question  of  Union  and  the  steps  already 
taken,  it  resolved :  "  That  we  hail  with  pleasure  the  desire 
manifested  in  favor  of  an  organic  Methodism  in  the 
Dominion " ;  and  appointed  a  committee  of  eighteen 
ministers  and  laymen  in  equal  numbers  '"  to  confer  with 
committees  of  other  Methodist  Churches,  to  negotiate  a 
Union,  if  possible,  with  all,  or  with  any  of  these  bodies  " ; 
also,  "  That  this  Conference  stand  adjourned,  to  meet 
at  the  call  of  the  Bishop  and  the  Secretary  of  this  Gen- 
eral Conference  to  receive  the  report  of  the  said  Com- 
mittee, and  to  take  such  action  thereon  as  may  be 
deemed  necessary." 

The  third  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist 
Church  of  Canada  was  held  in  the  Centenary  Church, 
Hamilton,  commencing  September  6th,  1882.   The  ballot 

389 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

for  President  resulted  in  the  election  of  the  Rev.  Samuel 
D.  Rice,  D.D. ;  for  Vice-President  the  Rev.  John  A. 
Williams,  D.D.,  and  for  Secretary  the  Rev.  Alex.  Suth- 
erland, D.D.  On  the  first  evening  a  sermon  was 
preached  by  Dr.  Williams,  and  the  Lord's  Supper  was 
administered. 

As  full  reports  of  the  proceedings  were  published  in 
the  minutes,  we  need  but  refer  briefly  to  some  of  the 
results  reached.  All  necessary  committees  were  appointed 
and  their  reports  considered.  Total  number  of  mem- 
bers, 125,420;  increase  in  Toronto  Conference,  2,100; 
London,  761 ;  New  Brunswick  and  Prince  Edward 
Island,  149 ;  Newfoundland,  593 ;  decrease — Mont- 
real, 565;  Nova  Scotia,  217;  net  increase,  2,815.  Total 
number  of  ministers  and  probationers,  1,192  ;  increase,  26. 
An  address  from  the  Australian  Wesley  an  Metho- 
dist Church  was  received.  The  Rev.  F.  W.  Briggs, 
Delegate  from  the  English  Conference;  Rev. 
W.  S.  Studley,  D.D.,  from  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church,  United  States;  Bishop  McTigert,  from  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church  South;  Dr.  Stone  from  the 
Canada  Methodist  Episcopal  Church;  Revs.  Thomas  M. 
Griffith,  James  C.  Antliflf.  and  Robert  W.  Walker,  Esq., 
of  the  Primitive  Methodist  Church,  were  introduced. 

The  Report  finally  submitted  to  the  Conference  from 
the  Union  Committees  declared  that  if  provision  be 
made  for  the  admission  of  laymen  to  the  Annual  Con- 
ferences and  for  a  General  Superintendency,  the  pro- 
posals for  Union  would  probably  be  acceptable  to  all. 
The  report,  with  some  changes,  was  adopted. 

A  mixed  Committee  of  forty-three,  representing  all 
the  Conferences,  was  appointed  to  meet  the  Committees 
of  the  other  Churches  in  Toronto  on  the  last  Tuesday  of 
November,  1882;  and,  should  the  Committees  so  meeting 
agree  upon  a  Basis  of  Union,  the  Basis  should  be  sub- 
mitted to  the  Quarterly  Meetings. 

390 


THE  METHODIST  CHURCH 

The  Superannuation,  Missionary  and  Children's 
Funds,  General  Superintendency,  Transfers,  Court  of 
.Vppeal,  A-Iinisterial  Term,  Colleges,  Book  and  Publish- 
ing Houses,  Hymn  Book,  Connexional  Publications,  the 
Discipline,  and  many  other  important  interests  were  con- 
sidered, and  such  legislation  enacted  as  was  deemed 
necessary. 

Provision  was  made  for  a  special  session  of  the  Gen- 
eral Conference,  should  the  action  of  the  Committees  on 
Union  so  require. 

The  Conference  adjourned  on  the  27th  of  September. 

Auxiliaries  to  the  Woman's  Missionary  Society  were 
formed — in  Hamilton  in  1880;  Uxbridge,  Goderich, 
Montreal,  1881 ;  Toronto,  Paris,  Halifax  South,  Picton, 
Simcoe,  Brantford,  St.  Thomas,  Chatham,  Listowel, 
Peterborough,  St.  Stephen,  N.B.,  Strathroy,  and  Bur- 
lington in  1882.  The  Ladies'  French  Missionary  Society ' 
of  Montreal,  which  had  been  doing  much  to  help  French 
Missions,  for  a  few  years,  united  with  the  Woman's 
Missionary  Society  in  1881.  Mrs.  James  Gooderham 
was  elected  President. 

The  intensely  earnest  appeals  that  had  been  coming 
from  the  missionaries  in  Japan,  from  the  Rev.  Thomas 
Crosby,  of  Port  Simpson,  and  especially  from  Mrs. 
Crosby,  regarding  the  necessity  of  a  Home  for  Indian 
girls,  thrilled  the  hearts  of  many  Christian  women  and 
awakened  a  general  response  from  the  Auxiliaries. 

The  beginning  of  the  Crosby  Home,  at  Port  Simpson, 
was  pathetic — a  little  Indian  girl  coming  and  telling 
Mrs.  Crosby  she  had  come  to  live  with  her.  What 
could  the  missionary  do  but  take  in  and  care  for  the 
innocent,  pleading  child?  In  1879  Mr.  Crosby  built  an 
addition  to  the  Mission  House,  in  which  twelve  girls 
soon  found  a  home  and  a  mother's  love.  But  who  can 
understand    the   strain    which   this    strange    addition   to 

391 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

the  mission  family  imposed  on  the  time,  strength,  and 
resources  of  Mrs.  Crosby?  After  years  of  struggle  and 
hope,  Miss  Hendrie,  of  Brantford,  was  sent  to  her  relief 
as  Matron  of  the  Home  in  1882,  and  provision  was 
made  by  the  Woman's  Board  for  meeting  the  urgent 
needs. 

Meantime  the  calls  for  help  coming  from  Japan  found 
eager  and  responsive  listeners.  The  women  at  home 
resolved,  in  harmony  with  General  Conference  sugges- 
tions, to  have  a  share  in  the  foreign  field,  and  send  a 
missionary  to  Japan.  A  volunteer  for  the  distant  and 
difficult  mission  was  forthcoming,  and  on  an  evening 
appointed  the  lecture-room  of  Centenary  Church,  Ham- 
ilton, was  crowded  with  sympathizers  to  bid  farewell  to 
Miss  M.  J.  Cartmell  on  her  leaving  for  Japan.  Several 
appropriate  addresses  were  delivered,  and  a  purse  of 
$200  was  presented  to  Miss  Cartmell.  She  left  on  the 
23rd  of  September,  1882. 

A  veteran  pioneer — '  Robert  Holbrook  was  born  in 
Brooklyn,  N.Y.,  in  1796.  At  ten  years  of  age  he  entered 
the  British  Navy,  and  in  the  Battle  of  Trafalgar  served 
in  the  third  ship  behind  Nelson's  flagship.  In  1824  he 
married  Miss  Mary  Chester,  and  the  next  year  united 
with  the  Methodist  Church.  In  1847  they  came  to 
Hamilton  and  joined  the  John  St.  Church.  In  vari- 
ous offices  Mr.  Holbrook  showed  the  firmness  of  his 
devotion  to  religious  life  and  duty  until  his  death  on 
the  19th  of  August,  1882,  in  his  eighty-seventh  year.' 

Mr.  John  N.  Lake,  of  Toronto,  after  a  visit  to  the 
North-West,  suggested  the  raising  of  $50,000  to  meet 
the  necessities  of  the  work  there,  and  offered  the  first 
$5,000.  Other  liberal  offers  encouraged  the  hope  that 
the  amount  might  be  raised.  Through  failure  of  health 
Mr.  Lake  had  been  compelled  to  retire  from  the  minis- 
try, but  as  a  layman  continued    an    active    worker    in 

392 


THE  METHODIST  CHURCH 

connection  with  Sherbourne  St.   Church,  Toronto,  and 
in  the  service  of  the  Church  at  large. 
Some  early  Toronto  Methodists: 

'  John  Cornish  was  born  in  Exeter,  England,  July 
loth,  1809,  where  he  received  his  education  and  was 
early  converted  in  the  Old  St.  Sidwell's  St.  Methodist 
Church.  In  September  183 1  he  was  married  to  Miss 
Elizabeth  Hellins,  and  for  some  years  they  were  both 
devoted  to  Sunday  School  and  Church  work.  In  1843 
they  came  with  their  little  family  of  four  children  to 
Canada  and  settled  in  Toronto,  where  until  his  death 
he  was  engaged  in  mercantile  life.  On  coming  to 
Toronto  he  first  identified  himself  with  the  old  George 
St.  Church,  when  John  P.  Hetherington  was  pastor, 
and  subsequently  when  Richmond  St.  Church  was 
opened  in  1845,  he  with  his  family,  became  connected 
with  that  Church  and  Sunday  School,  He  died  after 
only  a  few  days'  illness,  trusting  in  Jesus,  on  March 
22nd,  1882,  aged  73  years.  He  was  survived  by  his 
widow,  two  daughters  and  four  sons,  one  of  whom  is 
the  Rev.  Geo.  H.  Cornish  of  the  Hamilton  Conference. 

Among  the  earliest  members  of  Berkeley  St. 
Church,  Toronto,  were  Mr,  Emerson  Coatsworth,  Mr. 
George  Sherlock  Faircloth^  and  Mr.  Edward  Galley,  a 
noble  trio  of  workers,  who  stood  by  that  church  from 
its  inception.  Mr.  Coatsworth  came  to  Toronto  in  1831, 
when  six  years  of  age,  and  through  many  years  has 
done  faithful  service  as  Sunday  School  superintendent, 
class  leader,  trustee,  and  local  preacher.  More  widely 
known  has  he  been  and  as  highly  appreciated  in  his  official 
capacity  as  City  Commissioner. 

Mr.  Faircloth  came  to  Toronto  in  1850,  and  was  a 
faithful  fellow-worker  with  Mr.  Coatsworth  in  Berkeley 
St.  Church  until  his  death — February  nth,  1879. 

Mr,  Edward  Galley  came  from  England  to  Toronto 
in  1852,  and  united  with  the  Adelaide  St,  Church, 
In  1856  he  married  Miss  Mary  Jane  Jewell,  of 
Oshawa.     Mr.  Galley  was  the  builder  of  the  first  Par- 

393 


METHODISM    IN   CANADA 

liament  St.,  Berkeley  St.,  and  Sherbourne  St. 
Churches.  He  and  his  wife  were  active  members  of  the 
Berkeley  St.  Church  from  its  building  in  1857  until 
their  removal  to  the  western  part  of  the  city,  where  they 
became  identified  with  Trinity  Church. 

Many  other  names,  are  honorably  enrolled  in  the 
annals  of  Toronto  Methodism,  such  as  Mr.  William  H. 
Pearson  and  Mr.  Samuel  S.  Martin  for  faithful  Sunday 
School  work;  Mr.  Richard  Brown,  Messrs.  James  and 
William  Gooderham,  Mr.  John  McDonald,  Mr.  Edward 
Gurney,  Mr.  Hart  ]\Iassey,  Mr.  George  Cox,  and  many 
more — men  able  and  willing  to  work  and  some  of  them 
to  contribute  largely  to  Church  interests. 

The  Rev.  John  McDougall  writes  of  the  death  of 
Mrs.  Sibbald,  wife  of  their  missionary  teacher,  October 
7th,  1882 :  "  For  seven  years  she  has  lived  and  labored 
among  us,  esteemed  and  beloved  by  both  whites  and 
Indians;  the  latter  especially  mourn  her  loss,  as  she  was 
always  kind  and  patient  with  them,  ready  to  sacrifice 
herself  for  others'  good.  To  Brother  Sibbald  and  his 
four  motherless  children  is  the  greatest  sorrow."  Mrs. 
Sibbald  was  one  of  many  women  missionaries  '  sacri- 
ficing themselves  for  others'  good,'  and  their  names  are 
worthy  of  thankful  remembrance. 

Uncrowned  Queens. — 

'  I  am  so  glad,  Mr.  Sanderson,  that  you  are  including 
some  of  the  wives  of  the  pioneers  in  your  work  on 
Methodism.  They  were  heroines  just  as  truly  as  their 
husbands  were  heroes,  and  I  think  they  had  to  endure 
more   of  the  hardships  of  early  days.' — S.   R. 

The  Committees  on  Union  of  the  several  Methodist 
Churches  met,  as  previously  arranged,  on  the  28th  of 
November,  1882,  in  the  Carlton  St.  Primitive  Metho- 
dist Church,  Toronto.  Bishop  Carman  was  appointed 
President,   Dr.    Rice    Vice-President,    Dr.     Sutherland 

394 


THE  METHODIST  CHURCH 

Secretary,  Rev.  J.  C.  Antliff,  M.A.,  Corresponding  Sec- 
retary, and  Rev.  J.  Mott  Assistant. 

The  steps  leading  up  to  the  present  meeting  were 
reviewed  and  reports  received  from  Committees  and  Con- 
ferences. 

Committees  were  appointed  on — General  Superinten- 
dency,  Lay  Delegation,  Publishing  Interests,  Education, 
Church  Funds,  Annual  Conferences,  Church  Property, 
Rearrangements,  District  Superintendency,  etc. 

After  seven  days'  frank  but  brotherly  discussion  of 
all  matters  pertaining  to  Union,  a  general  agreement  was 
reached,  and  the  following  committee  was  appointed  to 
arrange  the  findings  of  this  United  Committee  and  formu- 
late a  Basis  of  Union  to  be  sent  to  Quarterly  Meetings 
and  Annual  Conferences :  Revs.  Dr.  Sutherland,  Dr. 
Dewart,  Dr.  Stone,  George  Abbs,  James  C.  Antlifif, 
Edward  Roberts,  and  Mr.  John  McDonald. 

A  "  Basis  of  Union  "  was  accordingly  prepared. 

A  "  Circular  Letter  "  to  the  Churches  was  also  issued, 
signed  by  the  Presidents  of  the  several  Conferences,  com- 
mending the  "  Basis  of  Union  "  to  the  careful  and  candid 
consideration  of  all  concerned. 

New  Churches  have  been  dedicated  recently  at  Pot- 
tageville,  Florence,  Proton,  Midland,  Ancaster,  Bow- 
man's, Hensall,  Kirkland  Ridge,  Bervie,  Forest,  Mc- 
Crae's,  Wexford,  Moorhouse's,  Burnside,  Man.,  Lachute, 
Q.,  Neepawa,  Man.,  Welland,  Craighurst,  Elm  Grove,  etc. 

Abundant  correspondence  followed  the  publication  of 
the  proposed  "  Basis  of  Union."  Bright  hopes  and 
gloomy  fears  alternated  as  writers  for  or  against  ven- 
tilated their  views  in  the  papers.  For  a  time  general 
uncertainty  prevailed  as  to  final  results.  The  apprehen- 
sions of  many  in  regard  to  modifications  in  church  polity 
by  Lay  Delegation  and  the  Superintendency,  the  future 
of  Church  funds,  and  other  issues,  seemed  strangely  for- 

395 


METHODISM    IN   CANADA 

midable,  even  revolutionary  and  disastrous.  But  these 
and  all  other  matters  involved  in  Union  were  to  come 
under  intelligent  review  and  wise  adjustment. 

To  cool  or  to  animate  the  disputants  sundry  poetical 
effusions  were  proffered,  such  as : 

Cheer  up,  the  Union's  coming; 

Discord  and  gloom  disperse ! 
Let's  all  do  what's  becoming, 

And  none  will  be  the  worse ; 
Cheer   up,   the    Master's   speaking — 

"  My  peace  to  you  I  give ;" 
Let  each.  His  glory  seeking, 

Show  how  His  servants  live. 

— /.  B.  Aylcszvorth,  M.D. 

Corrections : 

"  In  Dr.  Carroll's  historical  sketch  of  the  Guardian 
and  Book  Room  are  a  few  errors  which  I  wish  to  correct 
— '  having  had  perfect  undestanding  of  all  things 
from  the  very  first.'  The  first  volume  of  the  Guardian 
was  published  in  March  St.,  now  called  Lombard, 
beginning  Nov.  2ist,  1829.  The  office  was  then  re- 
moved to  the  flat  over  Mr.  J.  R.  Armstrong's  store,  on 
the  south  side  of  King  St.,  nearly  opposite  Toronto  St. 
It  was  thence  removed  to  Jordan  St.,  and  in  the  year 
1833  to  the  building  on  the  west  side  of  Toronto  St. 
There,  in  1834,  the  Book  Room  was  commenced. 
About  1839  the  present  building  on  King  St.  was 
erected,  the  Book  Room  moved  into  it,  with  the  Guar- 
dian Office  in  the  second  story.  Shortly  afterwards  a 
wooden  building  was  erected  in  the  rear  for  the  printing 
office  and  the  rooms  above  the  Book  Room  fitted  up  as 
a  residence  for  the  Book  Steward,  The  first  book  pub- 
lished was  Everett's  Life  of  Sammy  Hick,  the  Village 
Blacksmith,  of  which  1,000  copies  were  issued — then 
thought  to  be  a  great  undertaking." — S.  S.  Junkin. 

By  the  General  Conference  of  the  Canada  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church,  held  in  Napar.?°  during  the  second 
week  of  January,  1883,  the  proposed  "  Basis  of  Union  " 
was  adopted. 

Very  few  names  of  laymen  appear  among  the  many 

396 


THE  METHODIST  CHURCH 

writers  on  Union ;  but  as  a  sample  of  opinions  held,  we 
give  an  extract  from  a  letter  by  Mr.  John  McDonald: 

"  I  greatly  mistake  the  temper  and  spirit  of  the  Metho- 
dist Church  of  Canada  if  it  will  not  prove  by  its  action 
that  in  magnanimity  and  brotherly  love  it  is  not  behind 
the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church,  whose  General  Con- 
ference did  itself  so  much  credit  in  the  recent  session 
at  Napanee,  and  that  its  verdict  will  command  the 
respect,  not  of  the  contracting  parties  only,  but  of  the 
Church  throughout  the  world." 

In  the  first  sixteen  Quarterly  Meetings  reported  of 
the  Toronto  Conference  the  Basis  of  Union  was  adopted 
almost  unanimously,  there  being  only  thirty  votes 
recorded  against  it.  In  the  first  fourteen  meetings 
reported  from  the  London  Conference  only  six  nays 
were  reported.  In  the  first  fourteen  meetings  of  the 
Montreal  Conference  only  seven  nays  were  reported. 

Bishop  Carman  on  Union : 

'  My  anxiety  and  prayer  are  not  that  there  be  a 
Union,  or  that  there  be  not  a  Union,  but  that 
we  know  the  will  of  God  and  do  it.  If  there 
be  a  Union,  let  it  be  in  love,  meekness  and  good- 
will, under  the  baptism  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  If  there 
be  no  Union,  let  us  be  justified  before  God  and  men 
in  standing  and  laboring  apart.  God  can  and  will  bless 
us  all  in  our  work.  As  for  me,  I  would  not  like  to  go 
up  to  the  judgment  seat  of  Christ  having  done  aught 
to  hinder  the  present  movement  for  the  unification  of 
our  Methodism.' 

New  churches  have  been  opened  at  Conway,  Smith- 
field,  Wilsonville,  Ryde,  Campbellford,  Rockport,  etc. 

The  golden  wedding  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Jacob  Heck,  of 
Augusta,  was  very  pleasantly  celebrated  on  the  13th  of 
March,  1883,  by  a  gathering  of  their  children  and 
friends,  with  suitable  presentations  and  addresses. 

Several  very  interesting  letters  were  written  by  Miss 
Cartmell  as  she  crossed  the  continent.  She  arrived  at 
Tsukiji,  December  27th,  and  was  met  by  Revs.  McDonald, 

397 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Eby,  Meacham  and  Mrs.  Eby,  Mrs.  Meacham,  and  Miss 
Moulton. 

January  nth,  1883,  Miss  Cartmell  writes: 

'  A  room  was  very  kindly  placed  at  my  dis- 
posal by  Doctor  and  Mrs.  McDonald.  I  have 
had  very  little  opportunity  yet  of  considering 
the  work  before  me,  but  I  have  no  trouble  in 
seeing-  more  than  it  is  possible  for  me  to  undertake. 
I  stand  helpless,  facing  a  great  need,  my  heart  burdened 
with  the  precious  message,  but  not  one  word  to  express 
it,  I  have  hesitated  to  ask  for  an  appropriation  in  my 
first  report.  But  you  have  honored  me  Ijy  sending  me 
into  this  field  to  work  for  the  Master.  Four  hundred 
dollars,  I  am  told,  would  pay  teachers  and  the  running 
expenses  of  two  schools  for  a  year.  There  is  one  such 
school  in  the  mission  and  no  difficulty  in  getting  pupils, 
who  pay  a  nominal  sum.  I  am  encouraged  by  all  the 
mission  to  ask  for  $400.  "The  silver  and  the  gold  is 
mine,"  saith  the  Lord,  and  I  thought  if  the  need  were 
made  known  the  Lord  might  put  it  into  the  hearts  of 
some  of  the  stewards  of  His  bounty  to  present  a  free- 
will offering.' 

The  Montreal  Conference  met  in  Ottawa,  May  30th, 
1883.  The  Rev.  Thomas  G.  Williams  was  elected  Presi- 
dent, the  Rev.  Andrew  B.  Chambers,  LL.B.,  Secretary, 
and  the  Rev.  William  Jackson  Journal  Secretary. 

Received  into  full  connection — Wm.  Smith,  Fred  W. 
A.  Meyer,  James  Elliott,  Frank  A.  Read,  Sidney  C. 
Kendal,  Fred.  W.  Crowle,  B.A. 

The  Rev.   Benjamin  Longley,  B.A.,  moved,  and  the 
Rev.  George  McRitchie  seconded,  their  reception.     The 
Rev.  Ezra  A.  Stafford  preached  the  ordination  sermon. 
Thirteen  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Z)iV(/— Stephen  Wilson,  Sept.  9th,   1882,  aged  33  years. 

Allen  Patterson,  Oct.  25th,   1882,  aged  34  years. 

Daniel  Connolly,  Oct.  20th.  1882,  aged  47  years. 

Jno.  M.  Moore,  Nov.  21st,  1882,  aged  27  years. 

Edmund  S.  Ingalls,  Dec.  30th,  1882,  aged  74  yrs. 

Jno.  C.  Warren,  Apr.  14th,  1882,  aged  75  years. 

398 


THE  METHODIST  CHURCH 

Wm.  Creighton,  April  28th,  1882,  aged  61  years. 
Nathan  Austin,  May  30th,  1882,  aged  34  years. 

A  resolution  of  sympathy  was  adopted  on  account  of 
the  destruction  by  fire  of  the  beautiful  and  costly  church 
at  Stanstead. 

After  a  long  and  able  debate  the  Basis  of  Union  was 
adopted — 66  to  51. 

The  Conference  closed  at  12.30  Thursday  morning. 

The  London  Conference  opened  in  St.  Catharines. 
June  6th,  1883. 

President — Rev.  Wm.  R.  Parker,  M.A. 

Secretary— Rev.   Donald   G.    Sutherland,   B.D.,  LL-B. 

Journal  Seeretary — Rev.  Edwin  Clement. 

Into  full  conneetion — Vernon  H.  Emory,  Wm.  J. 
Little,  John  H.  Howard,  George  Lounds,  Samuel  G. 
Staples,  B.A.,  James  W.  Sifton,  B.A.,  Edward  J.  Clarke, 
Richard  J.  Treleaven,  James  B.  Freeman,  B.A.,  Charles 
W.  Cosens,  Walter  S.  Jamieson. 

Their  reception  was  m.oved  by  the  Rev.  Wm.  Philp, 
M.A..  and  seconded  by  Rev.  Wm.  W.  Ross. 

The  ordination  sermon  was  preached  by  the  Rev.  Dr. 
Searles,  of  AiflDurn,  N.  Y. 

Six  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died—hewis  Warner,  June  29th,  1882,  aged  70  years. 

William  Bothwell,  Sept.  8th,  1882,  aged  61  years. 
•  Edwin  S.  Shibley,  Nov.  6th,  1882,  aged  34  years. 
Hamilton  Biggar,  Feb.  20th;  1883,  aged  yy  years. 
Joseph  Shepley,  March  22nd,  1883,  aged  71  years. 
John  J.  A.  Lever,  April  30th,  1883,  aged  49  years. 

Vote  on  the  Basis  of  Union — for,  88;  against,  loi. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Friday  at  noon. 

The  Toronto  Conference  met  in  Peterborough,  June 
13th,  1883.  The  Rev.  George  Cochran,  D.D.,  was  elected 
President,  Rev.  John  S.  Clarke,  Secretary,  and  Rev. 
Edward  Barrass  Journal  Secretary. 

Into  full  connection — Joseph  R.  Real,  Benjamin 
Greatrix,  Wm.  J.  West,  Wm.  F.  Wilson,  George  W. 
Marvin,  Albert  D.  Wheeler,  John  Peters,  Wm.  D.  Wil- 
son, Mirjagawa  Minori. 

399 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

The  Rev.  Dr.  Jeffers  moved  and  Dr.  Burwash  sec- 
onded their  reception.  The  Rev.  Dr.  Sutherland 
preached  the  ordination  sermon. 

Five  candidates  were  received  on  trial. 
Died — V.  B.  Howard,  Aug.  13th,  1882,  aged  71  years. 

Richard  G.  James,  Sept.  14th,  1882,  aged  36  years. 
Ashton  Fletcher,  Oct.  8th,  1882,  aged  80  years. 
William  Steer,  Nov.  7th,  1882,  aged  84  years. 
William  Price,  Dec.  14th,  1882,  aged  65  years. 

Vote  on  the  Basis  of  Union — 137  for,  37  against. 

The  Conference  closed  on  Thursday  afternoon. 

The  Bible  Christian  Conference  was  held  in  Exeter, 
Ont.,  commencing  June  6th,  1883.  One  minister  had 
died — J.  Edwards,  The  Basis  of  Union  was  carried  by 
more  than  two-thirds  in  the  Quarterly  Meetings  and  also 
in  the  Conference. 

The  Nova  Scotia  Conference  began  in  Yarmouth, 
June  2ist,  1883.  President,  Rev.  W.  H.  Heartz ;  Secre- 
tary, Rev.  Jabez  A.  Rogers ;  Journal  Secretary,  Rev. 
Cranswick  Jost.  The  Rev.  William  C.  Brown  preached 
the  ordination  sermon,  and  Joseph  E.  Donkin  was 
ordained.  The  Centennial  Fund  had  reached  about 
$3,800.  Members — increase,  500.  For  the  Basis  of 
Union,  34;  against,  31. 

The  New  Brunswick  Conference  was  held  in  St. 
Stephen,  commencing  June  27th,  1883.  President,  Rev. 
Stephen  T.  Teed ;  Secretary,  Rev.  Richard  W.  Weddall, 
B.A. ;  Journal  Secretary,  Rev.  John  Reid. 

Died — H.  McKeown,  Oct.  14th,  1882,  aged  54  years. 

Thfe  Rev.  Dr.  Rice  preached  the  ordination  sermon,  and 
Alonzo  D.  McCully  was  ordained.  For  the  Basis  of 
Union,  40;  against,  28.  The  Rev,  D.  D.  Currie  was 
appointed  to  act  for  the  Centennial  Fund.  The  work  in 
Bermuda  Islands  had  been  unusually  successful. 

The  Newfoundland  Conference  was  held  in  Carbonear, 
commencing  June  27th,  1883.  President,  Rev.  James 
Dove;  Secretary,  Rev.  George  J.  Bond.     In  1872  there 

400 


THE  METHODIST  CHURCH 

were  23  stations,  with  29  preachers ;  this  year  49  sta- 
tions, with  54  preachers ;  circuit  receipts  doubled. 

The  first  Manitoba  Conference  was  held  in  Winnipeg", 
beginning  August  ist,  1883.  President,  Rev.  George 
Young,  D.D.  The  Rev.  Dr.  Rice  moved  and  the  Rev. 
'^.  A.  Stafford  seconded  the  reception  of  Albert  D. 
(Vheeler  and  Neal  D.  Peters  into  full  connection.  The 
Rev.  John  F.  German,  M.A.,  preached  the  ordination  ser- 
mon. Four  candidates  were  received  on  trial.  The  Basis 
of  Union  was  carried  unanimously. 

Mary  A.  Hutchinson,  wife  of  Mr.  Samuel  McLean, 
Toronto,  '  was  born  in  Little  York  in  1826,  in  the  first 
stone  house  built  in  that  embryo  town.  Her  mother  was 
one  of  the  earliest  members  of  the  Primitive  Methodist 
Church  there.  In  a  revival,  under  the  Rev.  Wm.  Lyle. 
the  daughter  was  converted,  and  in  all  relationship? 
proved  faithful  to  her  early  profession  until  called  to  a 
nigher  service.  May  20th,  1883.' 

Among  some  early  Methodists,  still  in  active  service. 
is  Mr.  James  Manning,  who  came  with  his  parents  from 
Ireland  to  Little  York  in  1802,  later  settled  in  Tecumseh. 
where  he  became  a  class  leader,  local  preacher  and  man 
of  affairs,  giving  three  sons — Henry,  Thomas  and  Charles 
— to  the  Methodist  ministry. 

The  Ladies'  Colleges  in  St.  Thomas,  Hamilton,  an'^ 
Whitby  all  report  increasing  success.  Alma  College 
the  youngest  in  the  sisterhood,  has  already  taken  s. 
worthy  place  in  female  education.  This  college  wss 
onened  October  13th,  1881,  by  the  Methodist  EpiscoDal 
Church ;  it  had  an  attendance  of  forty  pupils  the  first 
year  and  the  number  has  greatly  increased. 

The  Adjourned  General  Conference  of  the  Methodist 
Church  of  Canada  met  in  Belleville,  August  29th,  1883, 
to  consider  the  question  of  Union,  the  Rev.  Dr.  Rice, 
President.  Reports  from  749  Quarterly  Meetings  showed 
649  for  the  Basis,  90  against,  and  10  ties.  After  four 
davs'  discussion  the  Basis  was  adopted  by  123  to  38. 
26  401  ^ 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

All  the  Annual  Conferences  of  the  Methodist  Episco- 
pal Church  voted  for  the  Basis,  and  135  of  177  Quar- 
terly Conferences,  with  7  ties. 

In  the  Primitive  Methodist  Church,  out  of  3,802 
members  votinof  3,20=^  voted  for  the  Basis.  In  the  Bible 
Christian  Church  more  than  t\vo-thirds  of  their  societies 
and  their  Conference  voted  for  the  Basis. 

The  Basis  havinsf  been  adopted  bv  the  four  nesfotiat- 
ine  Churches,  their  Representatives  met  in  the  Methodist 
Eniscop?!  Tabernacle.  Bellf^ville.  Sentpiriber  t;th.  t88?. 

The  Rev.  John  A.  Williams.  D.D..  was  annointed 
President,  the  Rev.  Edward  Roberts  Vice-President,  the 
Rev.  Fred.  B.  Stratton  Secretarv.  with  Rev.  Tames  C. 
Antliff.  M.A.,  and  David  Allison,  LL.D..  Assistants. 
Numbers  elected — Methodist  Church  of  Canada.  206: 
Methodist  Episcopal,  54;  Primitive  Methodist,  16;  Bible 
Christian  14.  The  Resolutions  adopted  by  the  several 
Conferences  and  the  votes  of  the  Quarterly  Meetings  on 
the  Basis  of  Union  were  presented.  A  committee  on  the 
legal  status  of  the  delegations  was  appointed — Judsfe 
Jones,  Judge  Dean,  Revs.  William  I.  Shaw,  B.A.,  Dr. 
Rice,  Edward  Roberts,  J.  Kent,  Dr.  Gardiner,  Dr.  Stone, 
and  Dr.  Allison.  This  committee  reported  the  legal 
status  of  the  delegations  satisfactory. 

It  was  then  resolved : 

"  That  the  final  deliverance  of  each  of  the  contract- 
ing Churches  at  present  constituting  the  various 
branches  of  the  IMethodist  Church  in  Canada  into  one 
United  Church  be  en2:rossed  on  vellum,  sis^ned  by  the 
Conference  officers  of  each  contracting  Church  and 
sealed  with  the  seal  of  the  said  Church,  and  that  the 
name  of  each  member  of  this  General  Conference,  signed 
by  himself  as  a  contracting  party  to  the  said  Union,  be 
attached  to  said  document ;  the  above  forming  the 
official  record  of  the  said  Union." 

Committee  on  engrossing  the  above — Revs.  S.  J. 
^  402 


THE  METHODIST  CHURCH 

Hunter,  William  Pirritte,  J.  Cooper  Antliff,  M.A.,  and 
George  Webber. 

It  was  decided  that  all  necessary  legislation  be  secured 
and  the  Union  take  effect  on  the  ist  of  July,  1884. 

Committees  were  appointed  on  Nominations,  Mis- 
sions, Education,  Publishing  Interests,  Discipline, 
Church  Funds,  Memorials,  Course  of  Study,  Boun- 
daries, Statistics,  Temperance,  Finance,  Sunday  Schools, 
Rules  of  Order,  General  Superintendency,  Annual  Con- 
ferences, Young  People,  Church  Property,  Transfers, 
Amalgamation  of  Societies,  Name  of  Church,  etc. 

It  was  resolved  that  two  General  Superintendents  be 
elected.  The  Rev.  Samuel  D.  Rice,  D.D.,  was  elected 
General  Superintendent  for  eight  years,  and  the  Rev. 
Albert  Carman,  D.D.,  for  four  years.  The  Rev.  James 
Cooper  Antliff,  M.A.,  B.D.,  was  elected  Secretary. 

The  Rev.  William  Briggs  was  appointed  Book  Stew- 
ard for  the  Western  Section  and  the  Rev.  Stephen  F. 
Huestis  for  the  Eastern ;  the  Rev.  Ed.  H.  Dewart,  D.D., 
Editor  of  the  Christian  Guardian,  and  the  Rev.  Dr. 
Stone  Associate  Editor;  the  Rev.  Watson  Smith  Editor 
of  The  Wesleyan;  the  Rev.  W.  H.  Withrow,  M.A.. 
D.D.,  Editor  of  the  Methodist  Magazine  and  the  Sunday 
School  periodicals;  the  Rev.  Alex.  Sutherland,  D.D., 
Missionary  Secretary  and  Clerical  Treasurer;  Mr.  John 
McDonald  Lay  Treasurer,  and  the  Rev.  Dr.  Wood  Hon- 
orary Secretary. 

The  Rev.  James  Gray  was  elected  Clerical  Treasurer 
of  the  Superannuation  Fund  and  Governor  Aikens  Lay 
Treasurer.  "  The  Methodist  Church  "  was  adopted  as 
the  name  of  the  united  church.  Each  Annual  Confer- 
ence shall  elect  its  quota  of  ministers  to  the  General 
Conference  and  an  equal  number  of  laymen. 

A  resolution  of  appreciation  and  sympathy  with  the 
Woman's   Missionary  Society  was  adopted.     Votes  of 

403  \ 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

thanks  were  tendered  to  the  Press,  the  officers  of  the 
Conference,  and  the  people  of  Belleville.  The  Confer- 
ence adjourned  on  the  19th  of  September,  1883, 

Full  reports  of  the  proceedings  having  been  published 
in  the  minutes  and  all  acts  of  legislation  embodied  in  the 
Discipline,  we  deem  it  unnecessary  to  repeat  them. 

The  following  table  of  statistics  of  the  Uniting 
Churches  was  presented  by  the  Rev.  George  H.  Cornish, 
and  his  Cyclopaedia  of  Methodism  in  Canada  was  highly 
commended. 

STATISTICS   OF   UNITING   CHURCHES. 


Ministers. 

Members. 

0    . 

d 

Ut 

Churches. 

£ 

0 

r  P 

c 

CTi 

B 

> 
0 

1=  2 
53  «j 

0 
1 

13 

0 

^ 

D-  a. 
3  3 

0 

0 

c 

3 

0 

W 

m^n 

0^ 

H 

0 

Ph 

H 

Methodist  Church  of  Canada. 

87  s 

174 

167 

1216 

837s 

120369 

128644 

Methodist  Episcopal  Church . 

189 

39 

31 

aw 

1883 

23788 

25671 

Primitive  Methodist  Church  . 

64 

IS 

10 

89 

I4I3 

6677 

8090 

Bible  Christian  Church 

56 
1184 

13 
241 

II 

219 

80 
1644 

480 

6918 

7398 

Total    

12151 

157752 

169803 

SUNDAY   SCHOOLS. 


Churches. 

'o 

^  0 
S  2 

12;  Ol 

Officers 

and 

Teachers. 

"o 
0 

Methodist  Church  of  Canada 

1968 
432 
152 
155 

16781 
3182 
1172 
1299 

132320 

23968 

9065 

9699 

Methodist  Episcopal  Church 

Primitive  Methodist  Church 

Bible  Christian  Church 

Total 

2707 

22434 

175052 

404 


THE  METHODIST  CHURCH 

The  Rev.  John  A.  Williams,  D.D.,  as   President  of 

the  Conference  composed  of  various  elements  occupied 
an  unquestionably  difhcult  position,  but  presided 
throughout  the  protracted  sessions  with  acknowledged 
ability,  tact,  and  fairness. 

The  Rev.  Samuel  D.  Rice,  D.D.,  elected  to  the  high 
honor  of  General  Superintendent,  comes  to  his  office 
after  lengthened  experience  in  many  departments  of  pas- 
toral, educational,  and  official  work,  enjoying  the  esteem 
and  confidence  of  his  brethren. 

The  Rev.  Albert  Carman,  M.A.,  D.D.,  after  much 
experience  in  college  work  and  ten  years'  faithful  ser- 
vice in  the  highest  office  of  the  Church  to  which  he 
belonged,  is  regarded  as  a  wise  and  efficient  adminis- 
trator, who  will  honor  the  position  to  which  the  United 
Church  has  appointed  him. 

All  the  other  brethren  appointed  to  various  important 
positions  are  men  of  tried  abilities,  and  enter  upon  their 
duties  by  the  almost  unanimous  votes  of  members  of 
Conference. 

The  newly-constituted  Methodist  Church  faces  the 
inviting  and  expanding  work  of  the  future  with  an 
actual  and  comparative  force  that,  with  the  blessing  of 
God,  should  tell  mightily  upon  the  moral  and  spiritual 
interests  of  the  Dominion  through  ages  to  come.  In- 
stead of  division  and  consequent  weakness  there  is  now 
the  union  and  concentration  of  a  mighty  army,  loyal  to 
the  doctrines  and  usages  of  Methodism,  which  is  and 
we  trust  ever  will  be  "  Christianity  in  earnest." 

Whoever  may  trace  the  movements  and  record  the 
triumphs  of  this  evangelistic  host,  pushing  its  way  from 
sea  to  sea  over  our  broad  Dominion  and  into  the  regions 
beyond,  will  have  records  to  inscribe  which  will  bring 
joy  to  comrades  on  earth  and  to  the  angels  in  heaven. 


405 


CHAPTER  XXIX. 

PRIMITIVE  METHODISM  IN  CANADA. 

Being  a  portion  of  a  lecture  delivered  by  request 
before  the  Canadian  Historical  Society  of  the  Methodist 
Church  by  the  Rev.  Robert  Cade,  D.D. 

It  was  in  the  somewhat  memorable  year  of  1829,  when 
the  Christian  Guardian,  under  Methodist  Episcopal 
auspices,  began  its  career,  and  King's  College,  subse- 
quently Toronto  University,  was  founded,  that  Mr. 
William  Lawson  and  Mr,  Robert  Walker,  Primitive 
Methodist  local  preachers  from  the  Old  Land  and  after- 
wards prominent  business  men  and  important  Canadian 
citizens,  commenced  public  religious  services  in  the 
Market  Square  of  what  was  then  called  Little  York,  and 
continued  them  from  time  to  time  with  success.  For 
some  time  the  little  band  secured  a  house  on  Duke 
Street,  in  which  to  worship  God,  but  in  a  short  time  a 
commodious  church  was  erected  on  Bay  Street  and 
occupied  until  the  increasing  commercial  importance  of 
the  locality  led  the  congi'egation  to  move  up  to  Alice 
Street,  where  a  beautiful  and  commodious  sanctuary 
was  dedicated  to  the  service  of  God.  A  strong  church, 
with  a  large  congregation,  a  fine  membership,  and  a  live 
Sunday  School  was  the  result.  The  present  writer  was 
one  of  the  preachers  who  ofificiated  at  the  dedicatory 
services  and  for  some  years  afterwards  was  assistant 
pastor  and  pastor.  The  cause  in  Alice  Street  Church 
continued  to  grow  until  fire  destroyed  the  edifice  and 
Carlton  Street  Church  arose  in  its  stead. 

406 


1.   Allison,  I).,  l.L.H.  -.  .Miss  M.  .).  C'artiiiell  .".   Holmes,  Rev.  A.  1...  M.  A. 

4.  Hare,  Rev.'J.  J.,  Ph.D.      5.  Dyer,  W.  P.,  M.A.,  U.D.   (!.  Wallace,  F.  H.,  M.A.,!).!). 
7.  Graham,  Mr.  David  8.  Massey,  Mr.  Chester  D.      !».  Rutledge,  Mr.  C.  W. 


PRIMITIVE    METHODISM 

Perhaps  no  church  in  this  land  better  deserves  to  be 
called  a  Mother  of  Churches  than  old  Bay  Street 
Church.  From  that  Pioneer  Society  proceeded  York- 
ville,  now  St.  Paul's  Church ;  Euclid  Avenue,  Parliament 
Street,  King  Street  East,  Bathurst  Street,  Zion  on 
Wellesley  Hill  and  the  Don  churches.  Chiefly  by  intelli- 
gent and  consecrated  local  preachers,  appointments  were 
opened  in  Scarboro,  Etobicoke,  York,  Markham,  Albion, 
Whitchurch,  Chinguacousy,  Reach  and  other  townships. 

Duly  ordained  ministers  from  England  were  sent 
from  time  to  time,  and  the  cause  spread  to  Brampton, 
Hamilton,  Stratford,  Woodstock,  London,  St.  Cath- 
arines, Orangeville,  Barrie,  Bowmanville,  Kingston  and 
many  other  points.  But  the  principal  centres  were  in 
agricultural  districts  where  the  people  most  needed  the 
Gospel.  A  further  proof  of  the  remarkable  vitality 
of  the  old  Bay  Street  Church  was  its  vigorous  and 
aggressive  Sunday  School,  which  for  many  years  was 
under  the  able  superintendence  of  Mr.  Robert  Walker. 

Revival  meetings,  protracted  services,  open-air  exer- 
cises, camp-meetings,  etc.,  were  means  employed  by  thej 
ministries.  The  plain,  simple,  earnest  preaching  of  Jesusi 
Christ  and  Him  crucified  from  the  lips  of  men  who  had 
been  born  again,  baptized  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  had  a 
story  to  tell  and  must  tell  it,  or  men  and  women  would  be 
lost,  succeeded  by  short,  fervent  praying  and  vehement 
responses  produced  marvellous  results.  Men  who  went  to 
mock  remained  to  pray.  Profligate  sinners  were  preached 
to  their  knees  and  prayed  to  their  feet  again.  Strong 
men  fell  to  the  ground  as  if  from  a  rifle  shot.  Women 
shrieked  in  their  agony  of  soul.  People  lay  as  if  dead 
upon  the  ground.  Pentecost  seemed  to  have  come  back 
again.  Whole  congregations  were  swept  down  under 
the  divine  power.  Communities  were  shaken  as  a  forest  I 
in  a  winter  gale,  and  the  blessed  result  of  those  mighty ' 

407 


METHODISM    IN   CANADA 

awakings  were  widespread,  permanent  and  largely  con- 
tributed to  the  foundation-laying  of  Protestant  Chris- 
tianity in  this  new  land. 

The  first  Primitive  Methodist  Missionary  sent  from 
England,  while  Canada  was  still  a  Mission  of  the  Hull 
Circuit,  was  the  Rev.  William  Watkins;  subsequently 
came  the  Rev.  William  Summerside,  the  Rev.  Josiah 
Partington  and  later  Revs.  William  Lyle,  Thomas 
Adams,  William  Jolly,  etc.  Among  the  most  notable 
ministers  deserving  honorable  mention  who  served  the 
cause  faithfully  in  those  days  was  Rev.  Matthew 
Nicholls,  a  man  of  great  tenderness  of  heart  and  power 
in  prayer.  He  died  in  Kingston,  in  1854.  of  cholera 
and  was  buried  in  Barriefield  Cemetery.  The  Rev.  John 
Lacey,  a  man  of  few  books,  but  an  orthodox  theologian 
and  a  preacher  whom  people  rode  many  miles  to  hear. 
He  sleeps  in  Sydenham  grave-yard,  near  Kingston. 
Later  the  work  was  reinforced  by  the  Rev.  John  Gar- 
ner, Robert  Boyle,  James  Edgar  and  many  others 
whose  presence  and  speech  would  be  no  discredit  to  any 
Canadian  pulpit  to-day. 

The  cause  had  been  25  years  in  the  country  and  the  time 
had  come  for  it  to  become  self-sustaining.  In  the  spring 
of  1854  the  first  Conference  was  organized  in  the  town  of 
Brampton.  The  Rev.  John  Lacey  was  appointed  President 
and  Wm.  Lawson,  Esq.,  Secretary.  Stations  reported,  32 ; 
missions,  40 ;  ministers,  ■^y ;  members,  4,274.  Large  num- 
bers of  the  converts  had  joined  other  churches,  where 
no  society  of  their  own  had  yet  been  formed.  It  is  on 
record  that  in  this  year,  1854,  54,000  British  emigrants 
arrived  in  Canada. 

After  the  organization  of  the  first  Conference,  the 
Christian  Journal  was  started,  under  the  editorial  manage- 
ment of  the  Rev.  John  Davidson.  The  paper  was  well 
conducted,  liberally  supported  and  continued  up  to 
the  Union.     Mr.  Davidson  was  a  man  of  commanding 

408 


I 


PRIMITIVE     METHODISM 

personality,  a  brilliant  preacher,  a  versatile  writer,  loved 
by  his  brethren,  and  possessed  in  a  large  degree  the  confi- 
dence of  the  Society  in  Britain,  from  whom  grants  of 
missionary  money  were  received.  Besides  being  Editor 
and  Missionary  Secretary  he  was  also  Book  Steward, 
and  supplied  the  preachers  and  circuits  with  Connexional 
and  general  literature.  Maximum  of  work  and  mini- 
mum of  wages  was  the  rule  in  those  times. 

On  Mr.  Davidson's  retirement  the  Rev.  William  Rowe 
took  over  the  duties  of  these  several  offices ;  and  on  his 
return  to  England  the  Rev.  William  Bee  became  his 
successor  until  the  Union. 

A  strong  desire  was  expressed  to  afford  candidates 
and  probationers  for  the  ministry  a  more  thorough 
literary  and  theological  training.  A  four  years'  course 
of  study  in  Methodist  Standard  Theology  had  been 
maintained,  and  every  year  the  young  men  before  ordi- 
nation were  subjected  to  rigid  examinations;  but  some- 
thing further  was  needed  and  the  Rev.  Thomas  Cromp- 
ton,  a  man  of  considerable  ability  and  preaching  power, 
was  selected  to  initiate  a  Theological  Institute.  Classes 
were  actually  formed,  but  the  impending  changes  in  Cana- 
dian Methodism  made  it  undesirable  to  embark  upon 
building  undertakings  until  Union  issues  were  settled. 

A  Children's  Fund  was  formed  which  supplemented 
the  salaries  of  the  preachers ;  and  to  those  who  had 
large  families  it  became  a  very  considerable  advantage. 

For  ministers  in  their  declining  years  provision  was 
made  in  double  form ;  a  Benevolent  Fund  was  sustained 
by  annual  subscriptions  and  collections  in  the  churches, 
and  a  Friendly  Societ}^  Fund,  made  up  of  ministers' 
contributions  and  legacies.  It  was  in  affiliation  with 
the  society  in  the  Old  Land,  and  membership  therein 
was  made  obligatory  on  all  the  preachers. 

In  all  the  courts  of  the  Connexion  laymen  had  seats 
and  equal  rights  to  speak  and  vote  with  the  ministers. 

409 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

The  layman  had  his  place  as  a  member  of  the  stationing 
committee  and  his  presence  was  appreciated  and  con- 
sidered an  advantage.  Two-thirds  of  the  Annual  Con- 
ference delegation  were  laymen.  The  pastor  had  no 
legal  right  to  the  chair  of  his  official  Board  by  virtue  of 
his  office,  but  at  such  meetings  he  was  usually  elected 
to  preside. 

Ministerial  character  was  a  matter  of  annual  investiga- 
tion, but  in  all  the  writer's  years  of  service  a  trial  affecting 
a  minister's  standing  was  almost  unknown. 

A  fine  spirit  of  social  and  brotherly  affection  existed 
among  the  brethren;  they  trusted  one  another  and  that 
trust  was  rarely  betrayed.  The  loyal  devotion  of  the 
members  to  the  ministers  was  deep  and  enduring  and 
manifested  itself  in  many  liberal  forms. 

There  was  no  invitation  system,  as  it  is  commonly 
understood.  The  churches  made  a  first,  second  and  third 
choice;  if  the  Stationing  Committee  could  not  send 
the  first  or  second  they  would  send  the  third  and  that 
decision  was  accepted  by  the  congregations. 

Every  quarter  a  meeting  of  the  Missionary  Committee 
was  held  and  in  extent  and  importance  was  almost  like 
an  Annual  Conference.  The  letter  from  the  English 
authorities  was  read,  criticisms  of  our  work  here  and  the 
agents  employed  were  freely  given,  reports  of  the  mis- 
sions received,  and  grants  apportioned. 

The  Primitive  Methodist  Church  in  Canada  having 
no  ancient  feuds  to  settle  and  no  formidable  obstacles 
in  doctrme  or  discipline  in  the  way  was  ready  to  con- 
sider the  question  of  Union  when  the  other  contracting 
parties  were  ready  to  meet. 

The  Rev.  Jonathan  Milner,  a  man  of  large  adminis- 
trative ability  who  had  distinguished  himself  on  many 
charges  as  a  wise  and  capable  church  builder  and  a 
prudent  adviser  in  all  financial  concerns,  was  successful 

410 


PRIMITIVE    METHODISM 

in  raising,  with  the  aid  of  the  preachers  and  societies, 
a  LeveUing-up  Fund,  which,  with  some  assets  from  the 
Book  Room,  enabled  the  Church  to  go  into  the  Union 
with  $18,000  in  hand. 

Church  debts  had  been  reduced  to  a  minimum  and  most 
of  the  buildings  were  so  situated  as  to  be  continued  in 
useful  occupation. 

After  many  preliminary  meetings,  a  very  large  majority 
vote  of  our  entire  membership  and  the  kindly  acqui- 
escence of  the  English  Conference  in  the  movement, 
on  the  opening  of  the  Aurora  Conference,  after  a  season 
of  earnest  prayer,  the  writer  of  this  paper  proposed  the 
following  resolution :  "  That  in  the  judgment  of  this  Con- 
ference the  Union  of  the  Methodist  Church  in  Canada,  the 
Bible  Church  in  Canada,  and  the  Primitive  Methodist 
Church  in  Canada  into  one  organization  is  desirable,  feas- 
ible and  practicable  and  that  this  Conference  proceed  in 
the  direction  of  its  consummation."  This  resolution  with- 
out debate  was  carried  with  enthusiasm. 

The  Union  meant  large  sacrifices  to  many  of  the  min- 
isters. It  was  found  difficult  to  supply  the  surplus 
preachers  with  suitable  appointments  and  some  of  them 
located.  Some  went  to  the  United  States;  some  found 
places  in  other  churches  in  Canada;  some  superannuated 
before  their  time,  and  some  returned  to  the  Conference 
in  England.  But  these  difiiculties  w'ere  fewer  than 
had  been  feared  and  gradually  disappeared.  The  in- 
crease in  membership  of  the  united  denomination  of 
20,000  in  the  next  three  years  was  distinct  evidence  of 
the  divine  good-will  towards  the  movement.  Every  suc- 
ceeding year  has  proved  the  wisdom  and  generosity  of 
all  the  societies  concerned  in  coming  into  that  grand 
unity  of  the  Spirit  and  bonds  of  love. 

Of  laymen  and  honorable  women  helpers  Primitive 
Methodism  was  ever  rich  and  strong.  Many  of  them 
rest  from  their  labors  and  their  works  do  follow  them. 

411 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

The  workers  associated  with  this  brief  history  were, 

as  a  ruling  characteristic,  men  of  strong  common  sense 
and  large  knowledge  of  men,  mainly  self-educated  but 
faithful  students  of  the  Bible  and  fairly  well  read  in  our 
Standards  of  Methodist  Theology.  They  had  gifts  and 
graces.  They  had  a  large  acquaintance  with  the  variety 
and  romance  of  small  incomes  but  they  practised  the 
simple  economical  life  which  enabled  them  to  answer 
satisfactorily  the  annual  question  put  to  them :  Are  you 
in  debt?  They  were  always  at  home  in  revivals.  Some 
of  them  had  considerable  preaching  power.  Their  main 
themes  were  man's  utter  helplessness  as  a  lost  sinner, 
the  atoning  love  of  God,  full,  free  and  present  salvation 
through  faith  in  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  irretrievable 
consequences  of  rejecting  the  Gospel,  regeneration  by 
the  Holy  Ghost  and  sanctification  of  life,  the  great 
Judgment  Day  and  the  terrors  of  the  wrath  to  come. 
These  and  kindred  strong  truths  of  Holy  Scripture  were 
enforced  with  vehemence  and  with  permanent  results. 

The  career  of  Primitive  Methodism  in  Canada  though 
brief  and  limited  in  extent  was  in  many  respects  help- 
ful to  the  progress  of  the  Kingdom  of  God  in  the  forma- 
tive period  of  Upper  Canada's  history.  It  was  a  contribu- 
tion to  evangelical  revival  in  this  land  when  it  seemed  to 
be  most  needed.  It  diffused  the  spirit  of  Christian  liberal- 
ism in  all  the  courts  and  on  all  the  questions  of  Church 
government.  It  demonstrated  the  wisdom  and  safety  of 
admitting  consecrated  and  prudent  laymen  into  the  Con- 
ference and  Stationing  Committee.  It  recognized  the 
rights  of  woman  to  exhort  and  preach  when  gifts  and 
graces  indicated  her  call.  It  stood  loyally  by  the  State 
when  political  clouds  hung  thick  and  low.  It  cultivated 
the  feeling  of  fraternity  with  other  Churches  and  drew 
to  itself  respect  from  men  of  all  creeds.  Because  its 
sphere  of  operations  was  limited  it  enriched  the  larger 
Methodism  with  much  fruit  produced  by  its  labors.     It 

412 


PRIMITIVE    METHODISM 

stood  for  a  religion  that  was  more  than  a  letter ;  it  was 
a  snirit  and  became  an  inspiration. 

It  regarded  the  Union  as  an  immense  financial  relief 
when  the  country  was  experiencing  a  serious  and  pro- 
tracted period  of  agricultural,  commercial  and  industrial 
depression  and  when  our  towns  and  villages  were  being 
denuded  of  manv  of  their  best  workers  and  supporters 
by  emigration  to  the  opening  western  Territories. 
Primitive  Methodism  in  Canada  lived  to  see  five  denom- 
inations hecome  one  and  felt  thnt  it  had  not  lived  in  vain. 
It  brnueht  its  ronereeations.  churches,  nrincinles  and 
spirit  into  the  Union,  and  cheerfully  laid  down  its  Con- 
nexional  life  that  the  larger  interests  of  our  Redeeming 
Lord  might  be  promoted. 

And  now,  standing  in  the  s^olden  and  purple  sunset 
of  life's  summer  evenine.  waiting  on  the  western 
slopes  of  the  great  Pacific  sea  of  immortality  for  the 
heavenly  voyagers,  the  supreme  fov  of  the  writer  of 
these  reminiscences  is  that  Jesus  Christ  is  more  exalted 
in  the  still  advancing  Church ;  that  the  swing  of  victory 
-is  in  the  march  of  the  amalgamated  hosts  and  the  halle- 
lujah shout  of  triumph  is  ringng  in  the  air  and  that  a 
new  generation,  bright  with  consecrated  hope  and  burn- 
ing with  loyal  enthusiasm  for  all  the  old  ideals,  sees 
from  the  mountain  tops  of  Christian  prophecy  and  faith 
the  Millennial  year  approaching,  the  end  of  all  strife 
and  the  dawn  of  individual  brotherhood  and  everlasting 
peace  and  Christ  is.  all  in  all. 

Robert  Cade, 
Toronto,  1905. 


413 


CHAPTER  XXX. 

1833-1883. 

THE  METHODIST  EPISCOPAL   CHURCH   IN 
CANADA. 

By  Rev.  J.  M.  Simpson. 

By  request  of  the  Author  of  this  work,  I  have  under- 
taken to  prepare  a  brief  sketch  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church  in  Canada.  As  the  history  of  Canadian  Meth- 
odism is  ah-eady  given  in  this  and  in  a  preceding  volume, 
this  sketch  must  necessarily  be  brief. 

Methodism  in  its  organic  form  was  planted  in  Can- 
adian soil  by  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  of  the 
United  States  of  America  in  the  year  1791,  the  Rev. 
William  Losee  being  stationed  in  Kingston  by  the  New 
York  Conference  in  that  year.  That  was  the  planting  of 
a  healthy  and  vigorous  vine  that  took  root  and  budded, 
and  bloomed,  and  brought  forth  abundantly  the  best  of 
fruit  whereby  Our  Father  is  glorified. 

Those  early  Methodists  were  harbingers  of  good  to  this 
country.  God  was  with  them,  and  mightily  endorsed  His 
Gospel,  giving  them  thousands  of  precious  souls,  which 
was  their  richest  hire.  This  vigorous  gospel  vine  was  well 
and  truly  planted  in  what  proved  to  be  fertile  soil,  and  its 
growth  has  been  marvellous.  It  has  leaped  over  many 
walls,  climbed  to  the  mountain  tops,  struck  its  roots  down 
deep  and  strong  in  the  valleys  below,  and  bloomed  and 
brought  forth  the  richest  fruit  everywhere,  making  tlys 
"  wilderness  and  the  solitary  places  glad  for  them,"  and 
causing  "the  desert  to  rejoice  and  blossom  as  the  rose." 
It  has  "blossomed  abundantly,  and  rejoiced  even  with  joy 
and  singing."      It  was  a  glorious  thing  to  be  a  pioneer 

414 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH 

Methodist  preacher  in  a  country  hke  Canada — a  country 
that  has  made  such  munificent  returns  for  the  labor  and 
capital  invested. 

The  early  Methodist  preachers  in  Canada,  however, 
suffered  manv  hardships.  The  sfoodlv  herita^fe  that  we 
en iov  in  twentieth-century  Canadian  Methodism  was  not 
obtained  withotit  much  personal  sacrifice  and  g-reat  hard- 
ships on  the  part  of  its  founders  and  earlv  Dropaeators. 
The  hardships  that  our  fathers  in  Canadian  Metho- 
dism endured  were  not  onlv  those  peculiar  to  a  new 
country  in  its  wild  wilderness  state,  but  also  hardships 
that  were  due  to  the  attitude  of  the  rulers  of  the  coun- 
try and  the  influence  of  a  favored  Church.  The  Metho- 
dist preacher,  however,  could  o-enerally  hold  his  own 
with  anv  and  all  that  came  nj)  asfainst  him.  as  the  follow- 
inof  incident  will  show.  The  Rev.  Isaac  Puffer,  one  of 
the  first  Methodist  preachers  that  came  to  Canada  from 
the  United  States,  is  said  to  have  been  a  sfreat  Tover  of 
a  g^ood  horse,  and  that  he  was  the  owner  of  an  extra- 
fine  one.  One  dav  as  he  was  ridinsf  alonsf  the  public 
hiehwav  upon  his  fine  horse,  a  would-be  aristocrat,  who 
had  recently  been  made  a  magistrate,  called  to  him  thus : 

"  Good  mornins^,  Mr.  Puffer.  I  notice  times  have 
chansfed  since  the  days  of  your  Master;  an  ass  was 
,8food  enoug-h  for  Him,  but  now  His  servants  must  have 
the  best  horses  in  the  country."  "  Oh."  said  Mr.  Puffer, 
"  there  is  a  g"ood  reason  for  that ;  the  Government  has 
made  magistrates  of  all  the  asses." 

In  the  year  1831,  there  arose  an  agitation  among  the 
Methodists  in  Canada  over  a  proposition  to  form  an 
organic  Union  with  the  Wesleyans  of  England. 
This  movement  though  not  unanimous,  was  carried 
into  effect  and  ratified  in  1833.  There  was,  however, 
a  small  minority  who  earnestly  protested  against  the 
proposed  Union.     This  they  did  for  several  reasons;  I 

415 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

will  mention  but  two.  First,  they  wished  to  remain  an 
independent  Church  in  Canada.  Second,  they  held  a 
decided  preference  for  the  Episcopal  Form  of  Church 
government.  Believing  it  to  be  their  duty  to  them- 
selves, their  country,  and  their  God,  they  proceeded  at 
once  to  gather  up  what  remained,  and  reorganize  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  Canada.  A  Conference 
was  called,  and  the  few  preachers  who  did  not  go  with 
the  Union  met  in  Cummer's  Church,  Yonge  Street,  on 
June  25th,  1834.  Without  finishing  the  business,  the 
Conference  adjourned  to  meet  in  Belleville  on  the  loth 
of  February,  1835.  Pursuant  to  adjournment  it  met  in 
Belleville  on  the  day  appointed,  and  after  attending  to 
some  important  business  decided  to  call  a  General  Con- 
ference, which  they  did.  That  General  Conference  met 
in  the  Trafalgar  Church — now  Palermo — on  the  25th  of 
June,  1835.  ^he  Rev.  John  Reynolds,  who  had  pre- 
viously been  appointed  President  pro  tem.,  presiding. 
At  that  General  Conference  the  Rev.  John  Reynolds 
was  duly  elected  General  Superintendent  of  the  Metho- 
dist Episcopal  Church  in  Canada,  and  on  the  following 
Lord's  Day  he  was  consecrated  to  the  Episcopal  office 
by  the  laying  on  of  the  hands  of  the  Elders  present.  This 
completed  the  reorganization  of  the  Church.  Following 
this  was  the  work  of  rearranging  the  districts,  circuits, 
and  societies,  which  was  no  trifling  task.  But  those  men 
were  marvellously  sustained  of  God  in  this  extremely 
difficult  work. 

After  the  reorganization  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church  in  Canada  the  number  of  ministers  rapidly  in- 
creased and  very  great  success  attended  the  efforts  that 
were  made  for  the  salvation  of  the  people.  Times  of  re- 
freshing from  the  presence  of  the  Lord  were  frequent  and 
fruitful,  making  large  accessions  to  the  membership  of  the 
Church.  The  places  of  worship  as  well  as  the  church  mem- 
bers were  nearly  all  carried  into  the  Union,  so  that  our 

416 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH 

meetings  were  mostly  held  in  schoolhouses,  and  often  in 
private  dwellings.  I  have  known  many  sinners  converted 
to  God  in  a  farmer's  dining-room ;  and  when  they  were 
made  new  creatures  in  Christ  Jesus  they  knew  it, 
and  they  let  everyone  else  know  it.  Those  were  the 
days  of  powerful  conversions.  The  old  schoolhouse 
protracted  meeting  with  its  penitent  bench  did  grand 
service  in  those  days.  Many  an  old  saint  looks  back 
to  the  time  when  and  to  the  Methodist  penitent  bench 
where  he  found  the  Saviour  of  sinners. 

In  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  of  Canada  the 
Quarterly  IMeeting  was  an  occasion  of  very  especial 
interest.  This  was  largely  due  to  the  Presiding  Elder- 
ship, an  ofifice  of  much  value  in  a  Church  with  an  itine- 
rant ministry.  The  Presiding  Elder  would  visit  each 
circuit  and  mission  in  his  district  every  three  months 
and  if  possible  give  a  Sunday  with  each  visit.  He 
would  arrive  on  Saturday,  preach  a  sermon,  meet  the 
Quarterly  Conference,  transact  the  quarterly  business 
of  the  circuit  and  conduct  a  prayer-meeting  in  the  even- 
ing. Then  on  Sunday  at  9  a.m.  the  Presiding  Elder 
would  open  the  love-feast,  and  after  an  hour 
or  an  hour  and  a  half  of  singing  and  testi- 
mony, with  more  or  less  shouting,  he  would 
administer  the  Sacrament  of  the  Lord's  Supper, 
assisted  by  the  pastor,  and  then  preach.  He  gen- 
erally preached  again  in  the  evening.  Many  times  a 
glorious  revival  has  started  with  the  Quarterly  Meet- 
ing. People  from  every  preaching  place  on  the  circuit 
would  be  at  the  Quarterly  Meeting;  and  a  circuit  would 
have  from  eight  to  ten  preaching  places,  so  that  some 
•of  the  people  would  have  to  travel  long  distances  to 
get  to  the  Quarterly  Meeting.  I  have  known  a  man  and 
his  wife  travel  on  foot  fifteen  miles  and  carry  their 
babe  to  get  to  the  Quarterly  Meeting.  The  camp-meet- 
ing also  was  a  fruitful  means  of  soul-saving  in  those 

417 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

days.  A  camp  would  comprise  from  ten  to  twenty 
tents,  all  built  of  common  lumber  that  the  camp  com- 
mittee would  borrow  from  some  lumberman  and  pay 
for  what  they  did  not  return  in  good  condition.  The 
camp  would  enclose  about  an  acre  of  the  best  bush  that 
could  be  found,  where  there  was  plenty  of  good  water. 
There  the  best  Christian  workers  on  two  or  three  cir- 
cuits joining  would  unite  their  influence  and  efforts 
for  a  week  or  ten  days  for  the  salvation  of  sinners,  and 
the  quickening  of  the  Church.  Their  labor  was  not  in 
vain  in  the  Lord ;  for  many,  sometimes  a  great  many, 
souls  were  converted  to  God.  At  one  of  our  camp- 
meetings  about  fifty  years  ago,  on  the  Lord's  Day,  a 
great  concourse  of  people  were  on  the  ground,  and  the 
Rev.  John  F.  Wilson,  one  of  the  sons  of  thunder  at 
that  time,  was  preaching.  When  he  was  in  the  midst  of 
his  sermon,  a  large  tree  standing  in  front  of  the  preach- 
er's stand,  and  in  the  midst  of  the  seated  congregation, 
broke  off  four  or  five  feet  from  the  ground  and  fell 
upon  one  of  the  tents.  A  mother  was  sitting  in  that 
tent  with  her  babe  in  her  arms.  The  tree  was  a  crotch 
tree,  and  the  crotch  came  down  on  both  sides  of  that 
mother;  she  and  her  babe  received  no  injury  what- 
ever, nor  was  any  one  hurt  in  the  least  by  the  falling 
of  that  tree.  One  of  the  preachers  explained  the  mystery 
as  follows :  The  Devil  said  to  the  Lord—"  Those 
Methodists  are  not  as  sincere  as  they  appear  to  be,  and 
they  are  not  as  loyal  to  you  as  you  think  they  are ;  now 
just  let  me  throw  that  tree  down  among  them  and  they 
will  all  get  scared  and  run  away."  And  the  Lord  said 
to  the  Devil — "  You  may  do  what  you  please  with  that 
tree,  but  lay  not  your  hand  upon  any  of  those  people 
to  do  them  harm."  And  the  result  was  proof  to  devils 
and  to  men,  that  God  protects  His  trustful  people 
against  the  worst  that  devils  can  do."  After  that  the 
work  of  soul-saving  prospered  more  than  ever. 

418 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH 

At  the  same  cainp-meeting  the  Rev.  Robert  Earl 
was  preaching  one  day  from  Proverbs  27.  8 — "  As 
a  bird  that  wandereth  from  her  nest  so  is  a  man  that 
wandereth  from  his  place."  While  the  preacher  was 
pressing  home  the  truth,  and  exhorting  wanderers  to  re- 
turn a  native  song  bird  came  flying  down,  and  lighting 
upon  a  branch  in  front  of  the  preacher  struck  up  a  beauti- 
ful song  that  seemed  to  give  increased  effect  to  the 
Gospel  Word.  The  Lord  can,  and  often  does  make 
the  wrath  of  devils  and  men  to  praise  Plim ;  and  He 
can  commission  a  song  bird  to  make  His  word  still 
more  effective.  At  another  of  our  camp-meetings,  the 
season  was  very  dry,  and  the  condition  of  the  country 
began  to  look  serious.  On  the  Lord's  Day  it  was  ex- 
tremely dry  and  hot.  At  the  2  p.m.  service  the  Rev. 
George  Jones  offered  the  opening  prayer,  in  which  he 
laid  before  the  Lord  the  country's  great  need  of 
rain  and  implored  the  Almighty  to  send  rain. 
There  was  an  infidel  leaning  against  a  tree  listening 
to  the  prayer.  When  Mr.  Jones  closed  his  prayer  the 
infidel,  turning  to  a  gentleman  near  him,  said :  "  Well, 
if  it  rains  to-day  I  will  believe  in  Christianity,  and  I 
will  believe  that  that — pointing  to  Mr.  Jones — is  a 
righteous  man."  About  five  o'clock  that  evening  it  was 
pouring  rain,  and  continued  until  midnight. 

What  that  infidel's  final  decision  was  I  never  learned, 
but  he  passed  on  to  another  world  years  ago. 

The  Conference  of  1837  met  in  Cummer's  Church, 
Yonge  Street,  on  the  21  st  of  June,  Bishop  Reynolds 
presiding.  The  increase  in  membership  reported  that 
year  was  1,132;  the  number  of  preachers  stationed  by 
the  Conference  w^as  thirty-four ;  and  the  total  member- 
ship of  the  Church  at  that  date  was  3,522.  From  these 
statistics  we  see  that  those  few  humble  workers  in  the 
gospel  vineyard  were  workers  in  earnest,  and  that  God 
owned  and  blessed  their  labors  in  no  small  degree. 

419 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

At  the  Conference  of  T843.  ^^^^  i"  Sidney  near  Belle- 
ville, twelve  candidates  for  the  ministry  were  received 
on  trial.  The  total  membership  of  the  church  reported 
at  that  date  was  8,880.  The  General  Conference  also 
was  convened  at  the  same  time  and  place,  and  divided 
the  work,  making  two  Annual  Conferences — Niagara  and 
the  Bay  of  Quinte. 

In  October,  1845.  a  General  Conference  was  con- 
vened in  what  was  known  as  Grove  Church,  near  Port 
Hope.  At  that  Conference  the  Rev.  J.  Alley,  a 
member  of  the  Black  River  Conference  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  the  United  States, 
was  duly  elected  General  Superintendent  of  the  Metho- 
dist Episcopal  Church  in  Canada,  and  on  the  following 
Lord's  Day  he  was  consecrated  to  the  Episcopal  office 
by  the  laying  on  of  the  hands  of  Bishop  Reynolds, 
David  Gulp,  and  Philander  Smith.  Mr.  Alley  was  a 
man  of  genuine  piety,  an  able  preacher,  and  the  Con- 
ference cherished  the  hope  that  he  would  be  able  to 
give  the  Church  and  the  country  manv  years  of  great 
usefulness.  But  in  this  they  were  sadly  disappointed, 
for  in  less  than  two  years  he  was  not,  for  God  had  taken 
him. 

In  the  year  1845  the  Rev.  Thomas  Webster  and  the 
Rev.  Joseph  Leonard  issued  the  first  number  of  the 
Canada  Christian  Advocate. 

This  journal  was  purchased  by  the  General  Confer- 
ence in  1847  ^"d  became  the  organ  of  the  Church.  The 
Canada  Christian  Advocate  was  first  published  in  the 
town  of  Cobourg,  but  when  purchased  by  the  Church 
the  office  of  publication  was  removed  to  the  City  of 
Hamilton,  where  it  continued  to  be  published  until  amal- 
gamated with  the  Christian  Guardian  upon  the  con- 
summation of  Methodist  Union  in  1884,  when  the  Rev. 
Samuel  G.  Stone,  D.D.,  who  had  been  for  several  years 

420 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH 

Editor  and  Book  Steward,  became  the  Assistant  Editor 
of  the  Christian  Giuirdian. 

Higher  education  was  always  a  subject  of  very  great 
interest  m  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  Canada. 
In  the  time  of  the  Church's  greatest  weakness  she 
heroically  launched  an  educational  enterprise  that  re- 
sulted in  the  planting  of  an  institution  of  higher  edu- 
cation for  both  sexes  in  the  Town  of  Belleville,  widely 
and  favorably  known  as  Albert  College, 

For  several  years  after  the  opening  of  "  Belleville 
Seminary,"  as  it  originally  was  called,  great  financial 
stringency  prevailed  in  the  country,  which  affected  the 
interests  of  the  Institution  very  much,  making  it  diffi- 
cult to  keep  the  school  alive  and  at  work.  But  the  men 
who  had  the  management  and  control  of  the  school 
and  its  financial  interests  were  heroic  and  untiring  in ' 
their  efforts  until  their  cherished  hopes  were  realized 
and  their  labors  crowned  with  success.  As  a  denomina- 
tional college  we  do  not  think  there  is  another  in  Can- 
ada doing  a  better  class  of  work  or  doing  its  work  better 
than  Albert  College  at  Belleville. 

Nor  were  Albert  and  Alexandra  colleges  the  only 
educational  enterprise  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church  in  Canada.  The  beautiful  and  well-equipped 
Ladies'  College  at  St.  Thomas,  Ontario,  is  another 
evidence  of  the  educational  sentiment  of  the  Church 
and  the  liberality  of  her  people.  It  is  cause  for  much 
thankfulness  to  know  that  Alma  College  enjoys  a  good 
degree  of  prosperity,  and  has  taken  rank  as  one  of  the 
best  equipped  Ladies'  Colleges  of  the  country. 

It  is  quite   evident  that  both  the  ministry  and  laity 
of    the  Church  believed  the  doctrine  of  Isaiah  33.  6: 
"  Wisdom  and  knowledge  shall  be  the  stability  of  thy 
times,    and    strength    of    salvation;    the    fear    of    the 
Lord  is  His  treasure." 

421 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

Some  years  ago,  at  one  of  my  country  appointments, 
I  was  invited  one  Lord's  Day  to  dine  at  a  good  old 
Methodist  home,  where  the  preacher  so  often  gets  hi*" 
Sunday  dinnei.  Another  brother — Mr.  L. —  was  also 
invited.  A  gentleman  friend,  who  was  in  mercantile 
business,  was  also  there — all  Methodists  together. 
When  dinner  was  over,  brother  L.  slipped  away  to  the 
kitchen  for  his  after-dinner  smoke.  When  our  mer- 
chant friend  saw  Mr.  L.  enjoying  his  pipe,  he  exclaimed 
— "  Oh,  Mr.  h.,  I  am  sorry  to  see  an  old  Christian  like 
you  indulging  in  such  a  filthy  and  sinful  habit.  I  have 
no  more  respect  for  a  tobacco  user  than  I  have  for  a 
whiskey  drinker."  Mr.  L.  replied — "  Do  you  sell 
tobacco  in  your  store?"  There  was  a  pause.  The  ques- 
tion was  repeated,  and  the  brother  acknowledged  that 
he  did.  "  Then,"  said  Mr.  L,-,  "  I  have  no  more  respect 
for  you  than  I  have  for  a  whiskey  seller!"  By  this 
time  I  thought  our  brother  saw  his  inconsistency. 

The  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  Canada  had  not 
yet  undertaken  foreign  mission  work.  The  need  of  the 
home  mission  w^ork  being  all  that  the  Church  was  able 
to  meet.  Our  missions,  however,  were  many,  stretch- 
ing from  east  to  west  along  the  interior  of  Ontario  and 
a  few  in  Manitoba. 

At  the  General  Conference  held  at  St.  David's  in  the 
year  1858,  the  Rev.  James  Richardson  was  elected  and 
consecrated  to  the  Episcopal  Office  to  share  the  labors 
and  honors  of  the  office  with  Bishop  Smith.  Bishop 
Richardson  received  no  salary  from  the  Church ;  he  was 
a  real  nobleman,  one  of  nature's  finest  productions,  who 
studied  and  labored  to  make  the  most  of  himself  for  his 
family,  his  country,  his  Church,  and  his  God.  He  still 
lives  in  the  loving  memory  of  his  people.  He  entered  the 
joy  of  his  Lord  and  the  rest  that  remains  for  God's 
people,  in  the  year  1875,  having  served  the  Church  in  the 
Episcopal  Office  seventeen  years. 

422 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH 

The  territory  occupied  by  the  Methodist  Episcopal 
Church  in  Canada  was  divided  into  three  Annual  Con- 
ferences— Niagara,  Ontario,  and  Bay  of  Quinte. 

At  the  General  Conference  held  in  Napanee  in  the 
year  1874,  the  Episcopacy  was  again  strengthened  by 
the  election  and  consecration  of  the  Rev.  Albert  Car- 
man, M.A.,  to  the  Episcopal  Office;  a  man  who,  in  the 
judgment  of  his  brethren,  was  well  qualified  for  the 
position.  Mr.  Carman  at  that  time  was  President  of 
Albert  College,  where  he  was  very  much  needed.  But 
the  Conference  knew  that  a  supply  for  the  College 
Presidency  would  be  more  easily  secured  than  a  suit- 
able man  for  the  Episcopal  Office ;  and  so  it  proved.  Dr. 
Carman's  efficiency  during  ten  years  as  Bishop  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  Canada,  where  his  su- 
perior talents  were  of  priceless  value  to  the  work  of  the 
Church  in  every  department,  was  proof  of  the  wisdom 
and  good  judgment  of  the  General  Conference  in  mak- 
ing him  Bishop.  And  we  think  it  is  evidence  of  good 
judgment  on  the  part  of  the  General  Conference  of 
United  Methodism  in  this  country  that  he  was  elected 
to  the  office  of  General  Superintendent.  So  the  five 
men  who  occupied  the  Episcopal  Office  during  a  period 
of  fifty  years  were  John  Reynolds,  J.  Alley,  Philander 
Smith,  James  Richardson  and  Albert  Carman,  D.D. — 
all  good  men  and  safe  leaders  of  a  heroic  Church. 

At  the  time  of  the  Canadian  Methodist  Union  in 
1884,  the  three  Annual  Conferences  of  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church  in  Canada  numbered  228  ministers, 
25,671  church  members,  23,968  Sunday  School  scholars, 
and  had  church  property  valued  at  $1,523,514,  nearly 
all  free  of  debt,  except  the  colleges. 

The  system  of  stationing  the  ministers  and  preachers 
in  the  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  Canada  was  ver\- 
diflferent   from  the   methods   adopted   in   the  other  sec- 

423 


METHODISM    IN    CANADA 

tions  of  Methodism.  The  Presiding  Eiders  of  the  Dis- 
tricts, with  the  Bishop  at  their  head,  constituted  the 
Stationing  Committee.  As  these  men  travel  through- 
out the  whole  work  they  are  supposed  to  know  the 
needs  of  the  work  and  the  wishes  of  the  people,  and  of 
the  preachers  as  well,  and  it  was  marvellous  how  well, 
both  the  preachers  and  the  circuits  were  suited  with 
the  stationing  work.  When  the  Bishop  read  the  sta- 
tions at  the  close  of  Conference,  every  man  was  ex- 
pected to  say  '■  Amen  "  to  his  appointment ;  and  if  an) 
brother  failed  to  say  "  Amen  "  some  other  brother,  or 
it  may  be  several  would  join  in  the  "  Amen  "  for  him. 
I  remember  one  occasion  when  a  certain  brother  was 
not  pleased  with  his  appointment,  and  therefore  did  not 
say  "  Amen " ;  of  course  others  said  it  for  him. 
When  asked  why  he  did  not  say  "  Amen  "  he  replied — 
"  I  say  '  Amen '  at  the  end  of  my  prayers." 

In,  those  days  there  were  no  easy  places  and  fat 
salaries  to  fish  for ;  therefore  there  was  but  little  fish- 
ing. There  was,  however,  a  common  ambition  among- 
the  preachers  to  be  successful  fishers  of  men,  and  to 
make  a  poor  circuit  good  and  desirable. 

The  Presiding  Elders  were  officers  of  considerable 
importance  in  the  government  of  the  Church.  They 
were  appointed  by  the  Bishop  in  council  with  an  Ad- 
visory Committee  composed  of  two  ministers  from 
each  district.  This  committee  the  Bishop  would  call 
together  and  advise  with  them  with  regard  to  the  ap- 
pointment of  the  Presiding  Elders.  If  a  preacher  were 
known  to  have  obtained  special  favor  by  his  special 
pleading  with  some  Presiding  Elder,  it  was  said  that 
he  had  ploughed  with  one  of  the  Bishop's  heifers. 

It  is  exceedingly  pleasant  to  see  on  the  pages  of  this 
book  some  of  the  faces  of  dear  brethren  with  whom  we 
have  enjoyed  delightful  fellowship  and  happy  toil  in  past 
years,  though,  by  reason  of  limited  space,  only  a  few  of 

424 


METHODIST    EPISCOPAL    CHURCH 

those  faces  can  be  presented.  But  we  cherish  the  joyful 
hope  of  meeting-  them  all  in  our  Father's  house. 

And  what  shall  I  say  more  upon  the  history  of  the 
Methodist  Episcopal  Church  in  Canada?  To  speak- 
further  upon  this  subject  is  to  speak  of  fifty  years  of 
toil,  trial,  tears,  and  triumph.  It  is  to  speak  of  fifty 
years  going  forth  weeping,  bearing  precious  seed,  and 
of  coming  again  with  rejoicing,  bringing  their  immortal 
sheaves  with  them.  As  a  Church  we  were  a  happy 
family,  rejoicing  in  and  contending  for  the  faith  once 
delivered  unto  the  saints.  In  that  we  were  not  disturbed 
by  modern  higher  critics. 

It  is  the  cherished  hope  of  the  writer  of  this  brief  and 
imperfect  sketch  that  on  the  great  gathering  day,  when 
all  men  will  stand  before  the  judgment  seat  of  Christ 
and  give  an  account  of  their  stewardship  it  will  be  seen 
that  the  Methodist  Episcopal  section  was  a  healthy, 
loyal,  and  conservative  element  in  united  Canadian 
Methodism. 


-*» 

k'^'M  1  ** "          "^  Wfl 

m.mn 

^BPil?.! 

'l.:C-  '^^fc  k^                                 j    ;•   * 

»,tf'*:S^**^!^ 

g^  ""1^ 

|pSB**s 

L  ..I^ 

Methodist  Church  and  Parsonage,  Haileybury. 


425 


CHAPTER    XXXI. 

1833-1883. 

THE  CANADA  BIBLE  CHRISTIAN  CHURCH. 

Selections  from  a  lecture  before  the  Methodist  His- 
torical Society  by  the  late  Rev.  George  Webber. 

The  first  Bible  Christian  Society  was  organized  at 
Shebbear,  Devon,  England,  October  9th,  181 5,  with  22 
members,  by  William  O.  Bryan.  The  first  Quarterly 
Meeting  was  held  at  Holsworthy,  January  ist,  1816. 
The  first  Conference  was  held  at  Baddash,  Lancaster, 
August  17th,  1819;  preachers,  30;  members,  2,000.  The 
entire  district  over  which  their  labors  extended  was  at 
that  time  one  of  England's  moral  wastes.  But  there  has 
been  a  great  change. 

In  183 1  two  missionaries  were  set  apart  for  Canada. 
It  required  no  little  courage  for  a  young  denomination 
of  6,650  members,  with  a  missionary  income  of  $520,  to 
undertake  that  responsibility.  But  their  confidence  in 
God  and  the  people  was  not  misplaced.  The  response 
to  the  appeal  for  funds  was  liberal,  doubling  the  income. 
The  missionary  spirit  is  changing  the  face  of  the  vvoild, 
and  men  are  being  filled  with  the  divine  sentiment  of 
love.  The  first  missionary — Francis  Wetherall — reached 
Prince  Edward  Island  in  June,  1832,  and  John  H. 
Eynon  reached  Cobourg  in  July  of  the  next  year.  Their 
first  reports  were  made  in  1833,  showing  30  members  in 
Canada  and  47  in  Prince  Edward  Island.  The  next 
year  they  reported  88  in  Canada  and  60  in  Prince  Ed- 
ward Island.  In  entering  upon  their  new  fields  the  mis- 
sionaries had  no  churches,  no  congregations,  no    members. 

426 


BIBLE    CHRISTIAN    CHURCH 

They  preached  in  the  open  air,  in  the  woods,  in  houses, 
barns,  workshops,  shanties  and  schoolhouses.  In 
Cobourg  Mr.  Eynon  preached  in  a  dweUing  house,  and 
formed  a  class  of  four  members.  In  unreserved  sur- 
render to  Christ  they  went  wherever  need  and  an  open 
door  were  presented.  Mr.  Wetherall  soon  had  a  circuit 
extending  over  a  hundred  miles,  with  36  preaching 
places.  My  Eynon's  circuit  extended  nearly  200  miles. 
Think  of  a  young  woman  coming  seventy  miles  through 
the  woods  to  urge  Mr.  Eynon  to  preach  in  the  township 
where  she  lived!  Privations  and  dangers  amid  the  wild 
beasts  of  the  forest  were  not  of  small  account.  Once 
Mr.  Eynon  missed  his  way,  and  was  all  night  in 
the  woods.  After  kindling  a  fire  he  lay  down  to  sleep, 
but  was  soon  aroused  by  the  rustling  leaves  and  a 
prowling  bear,  and  began  to  sing — 

"  How  happy  is  the  pilgrim's  lot,"  etc. 

Mrs.  Eynon  preached  also.  Someone  asked  her  if  she 
had  been  ordained.     "  No,  but  I  was  fore-ordained." 

In  1834  John  Kemeys  was  sent  to  Upper  Canada  and 
Philip  James  to  Prince  Edward  Island.  They  returned 
154  members  for  Canada  and  67  for  Prince  Edward 
Island,  Two  years  later  the  total  number  of  members 
was  350.  John  Edwards  and  Philip  James  were  sent  to 
Upper  Canada  and  Absalom  Pickings  to  Prince  Edward 
Island.  The  next  year  John  Kemeys  returned  to  England 
and  Robert  A.  Hurley  was  sent  to  Canada.  The  preach- 
ing in  those  days  was  attended  with  wonderful  power 
and  many  conversions — sometimes  twenty  at  a  service. 
If  anyone  ask  the  secret  of  such  power  and  the  success 
of  those  early  preachers,  I  can  only  say  they  lived  much 
in  secret  prayer  and  meditation.  Alone  with  God  they 
became  men  of  decision  and  strength.  They  were 
evangelists,  and  helped  to  leaven  literature,  business  and 

427 


METHODISM   IN   CANADA 

social  life  with  the  spirit  and  principles  of  the  religion 
of  Christ.  They  stood  firmly  upon  the  word  of  God, 
and  were  true  to  it  in  belief  and  teaching.  In  this  age 
it  is  more  and  more  easy  to  give  up  one  doctrine  after 
another,  and  one  part  after  another,  and  pass  from  the 
positive  to  the  negative.  Solid  work  is  impossible  with- 
out solid  truth.  We  can  do  little  or  nothing  while  apolo- 
gizing for  Christ  or  the  Bible.  Christ's  calmness  was 
the  fruit  of  supreme  certainty.  The  Gospel  is  not  to  be 
put  into  a  Pantheon  of  the  religions  of  the  world.  Chris- 
tianity claims  to  be  absolutely  unique.  The  terms  Atone- 
ment, Justification,  Regeneration,  and  Adoption  are  not 
to  be  regarded  as  fossil  remains  of  an  extinct  theology. 
Gethsemane,  with  its  tears  and  blood ;  Calvary,  with  its 
darkness  and  veiled  face,  still  have  their  place — a 
supreme  place — and  will  while  God's  plan  of  salvation 
endures.  The  greatest  awakenings  and  revivals  the 
Church  and  the  world  have  known  show  that  when  the 
great  doctrines  of  the  Word  have  been  faithfully  pro- 
claimed the  greatest  results  have  been  seen. 

Ten  years  after  the  missions  had  been  fairly  opened 
the  first  District  Meeting  for  Upper  Canada  was  held  at 
Zion,  Hope,  in  March,  1844.  Members — Upper  Canada, 
657;  Prince  Edward  Island,  360.  The  missions  were 
then  divided  into  two  districts,  with  8  missionaries,  15 
churches,  7  Sunday  Schools,  40  teachers,  270  scholars, 
many  preaching  places.  The  first  church  was  built  at 
Cobourg,  and  opened  March  5th,  1836;  the  second  at 
Precious  Corners,  July  3rd,  1836.  In  1844  Mariposa 
IMission  was  opened;  the  next  year  Belleville,  by  John 
Edwards,  who  visited  eight  townships.  The  first  ser- 
vice was  held  in  the  bar-room  of  an  Irish  tavern  keeper, 
whose  whole  family  were  converted  and  the  tavern 
turned  into  a  house  of  God,  with  a  society  of  46  mem- 
bers— ^all  total  abstainers. 

428 


BIBLE    CHRISTIAN    CHURCH 

Additional  missionaries  came  out  to  Upper  Canada — 
Thomas  Green  and  J.  B.  Tapp;  to  Prince  Edward  Island 
W.   Callaway   and   W.   Harris.     Mr.   Eynon   drove   six 
hundred  miles  visiting  the  newly-opened  Huron  Tract, 
where,  in  1846,  a  mission  was  opened  by  Philip  James, 
including  nine  townships,  with  38  members.    This  same 
year  Paul  Robins,  G.  Rippin,  William  Hooper,  and  H. 
Abbott  W'Cre  added   to  the  Upper  Canada  staflF.     The 
work   extended    rapidly,   and   more    missionaries     were 
needed.      A  church  was  built  in  Bowmanville,  costing 
$1,000,   and  others  soon   after.     In  January,   1845,  ^^^ 
first  missionary  meeting  was  held   at   Cobourg;  collec- 
tion $30.     Other  meetings  followed,  awakening  general 
missionary  enthusiasm.     At  the  fifth  District  Meeting, 
held   in   Darlington,  the  membership  had   doubled,   and 
everything  looked  prosperous.      That    meeting    took    a 
decided  stand  for  temperance.    New  missionaries  arrived 
— A.  Morris,  John  Williams,  and  Jacob  Gale.     On  the 
1st  of  March,  1851,  Philip  James  died,  after  twenty-five 
years  in  the  ministry.     At  the  eighth  District  Meeting 
the  work  in  Upper  Canada  was  divided  into  three  dis- 
tricts.    Two  years  later,  at  the  district  meeting  in  Bow- 
manville, Paul  Robins  was  appointed  to  proceed  to  Eng- 
land to  secure  the  formation  of  a  Conference  in  Canada, 
and   was   successful.      In    1849   Cobourg  ceased   receiv- 
ing missionary  assistance.     Then  Darlington  and  other 
missions   became  self-supporting,  and   from  the   forma- 
tion of  the  Conference  no  further  aid  was  received  from 
England.    The  first  Canadian  Conference,  regularly  con- 
stituted, met  at  Columbus,  June  7th,  1855.     There  were 
then  21   preachers,   51    churches,   104    other    preaching 
places,    2,186    members,     335    Sunday    School    teachers, 
1,445   scholars,  and  an  income  of  $6,000.     There  were 
present  9  preachers,  6  representatives,  and  J.  B.  Tapp 
was  President.     The  Church  entered  upon  a  new  era. 

429 


METHODISM   IN    CANADA 

Resolutions  were  adopted  in   favor  of  Prohibition. 

Mr.  James  Bissett,  a  local  preacher,  held  services  in 
Exeter,  in  the  house  of  Mr.  James  Pickard,  about  1850. 

At  Crediton,  a  few  miles  out,  Mr.  George  Lewis, 
another  local  preacher,  began  the  work  in  an  old  store. 

A  Bible  Christian  Church  was  built  in  Exeter  in  i860. 

Mr.  Edwards  and  then  Mr.  Tapp  preached  in  and 
around  Mitchell  as  early  as  1850,  and  a  Bible  Christian 
Church  was  built  there  in  1854.  Mr.  John  T.  Barley, 
then  a  young  man,  has  been  identified  with  the  work 
there  from  the  beginning. 

Bible  Christian  Plan,  Mitchell,  1875. — i,  J.  Butcher; 
2,  E.  Tonkin;  3,  C.  Roflfe;  4,  P.  Drown;  6,  S.  Gerry; 
7,  H.  S.  Wills;  8,  T.  Roberts;  9,  T.  Coppin;  10,  W. 
Courtice;  11,  T.  March;  12,  R.  Moore;  13,  J.  Hodges 
Places — Mitchell,  Bethel,  FuUarton,  Zion  Providence, 
Carlingford. 

In  i860  the  Conference  met  at  Columbus.  There  were 
reported  37  preachers,  jy  churches,  118  other  preaching 
places,  3,700  members,  650  Sunday  School  teachers, 
3,600  scholars ;  receipts,  $6,600 ;  missionary  income. 
^3)350.  William  Hooper  was  President.  A  course  of 
study  was  arranged  for  candidates  for  the  ministry. 

In  1865  Prince  Edward  Island  was  included  in  the 
Conference,  and  there  were  reported  54  preachers,  132 
churches,  and  5,000  members,  showing  that  the  denom- 
ination had  more  than  doubled  in  ten  years.  C.  Barber 
was  President.  From  this  date  the  most  liberal  efforts 
were  made  in  church  building. 

At  the  Union,  in  1883,  there  were  80  ministers,  7,400 
members,  30,000  adherents,  181  churches,  and  55  par- 
sonages, valued  at  $400,000,  with  a  debt  of  only  $50,000. 


430 


INDEX 


Adams,  Ezra,  I.,  88,  114. 
Adams,  Miss  M.  E.,  II.,  369. 
Aikins,  Jas.,  I.,  237. 
Albert  College,   II.,  421. 
Alder,    Dr.,    I.,    272,    253,    429, 

435  ;  11-,  13,  57- 
Algoma,  II.,  327. 
Alma  College,  II.,  401,  421. 
Ancaster,  I.,  211,  222,  248. 
Arthur,  Wm.,  II.,  209. 
Asbury,  I.,  21,  60,  79. 
Augusta,  I.,  46,  87,  116,  363. 
Bangs,  N.,  I.,  zy,  47,  142,  I45, 

171.    193- 
Barrett,  Miss,  II.,  126. 
Barrie,   II.,    198. 
Battle,  Miss,  II.,  3j8. 
Bay  of  Quinte.  I.,  36-39,  116. 
Beatty,  John,  I.,  123. 
Beecham,  Dr.,  II.,  loi,  103. 
Belleville,  I.,  125,  199,  379;  II., 

170,  200,  320. 
Belton,    I.,    161,    249,    271,   400, 

447- 
Bible  Christian  Church,  I.,  447 ; 

II.,  271,  400,  426. 
Bidwell,   I.,   254. 
Biggar,  I.,  244;    II.,  146. 
Black,  W.,  I.,  17,  78. 
Black,  J.,  I.,  163,  205 ;  II.,  86. 
Blue  Church,  I.,  46;    II.,  150. 
Bolton,  East,  II.,  129. 
Book  Room,  I.,  312,  383. 
Borland,  II.,  315. 
Bowman's,  I.,  72,  228. 
Brampton,   II.,  85. 
Brantford.  II.,  163,  359,  375- 
Bredin,  II.,  312,  343. 
Briggs,  II.,  316,  403. 
British  Columbia,  II.,   134,   150, 

231.  234,  238,  345- 
British  Conference,  I.,  105,  271, 

281,  302,  379. 
Brock,  Jas.,  I.,  253;  II.,  82. 
Brownell,  II.,  69. 
Browning,  II.,  144. 


Bytown,  223,  237. 

Cade,  II.,  406. 

Canada  Conference,  I.,  145,  215. 

Carman,  II.,  225,  229,  296,  403, 

423,  483- 
Carroll,  I.,  115,  163,  340. 
Case,    I.,   44,   46,    57,    117,    15 r, 

193,   209,   212,   216,   242,   234, 

285,  289;    II.,  18,  51,  105. 
Catterick,  I.,  105,  128. 
Caughey,  II.,  24,  75,  79,  86. 
Census,  II.,  167,  258,  354. 
Century  Meetings,  I.,  437-443. 
Christian  Guardian,  I.,  229,242; 

II.,  77- 
Class    Meetings,    II.,    187,    215, 

285,  349- 
Clergy  Reserves,  I.,  183,  302. 
Clinton,  II.,   119. 
Coate,   M.,   I.,  36. 
Coate,  S.,  I.,  35,  43,  47,  59,  60. 
Cochran,  II.,  288,  326,  365. 
Coke,  Dr.,  I.,  20,  21. 
Coleman,  Jas.,  I.,  32,  43. 
Coleman,  F.,  II.,  79. 
Constable,  II.,  105,  129. 
Cornish,  II.,  136,  139,   147,  185. 
Corson,    R.,    I.,    132,    140,    156; 

II.,  55,  236,  309,  337. 
Coughlan,  I.,  13,  i5- 
Crawford,  II.,  75,  78,  ii5,  325- 
Crosby,  II.,  295,  353- 
Culp,  I.,  72,  320,  335- 
Cummer's,   II.,  416,  419. 
Currie,  I.,  438;    H-,  22. 
Davis,  Chief,  I.,  167. 
Demorest,  I.,  102,  138. 
Detlor,  II.,  41- 
Dewart,  II.,  124,  403. 
Dignam,  II.,  38,  75,  Ii5- 
Division     of     Conference,     II., 

264,  278. 
Dixon.  Dr.,  II.,  62,  259. 
Doel,  I.,  92. 

Douglas,  Dr.,  II.,  339,  349- 
Dundas,  II.,  202,  292,  333. 


431 


INDEX 


Dunham,  I.,  29,  30-32,  ^6. 
Eastern  Conferences,    II., 

280,  308. 
Eastern     Townships,     I., 

175;    II.,  150,  182. 
Eby,  II.,  270. 
Ecumenical,   II.,  2>77- 
Elliott,  Jas.,  II.,  217. 
Ernestown,  II.,   113. 
Evans,  E.,  II.,  13S,  I43- 
Evans,    Jas.,    I.,   243,    351, 

388,  402 ;  II.,  21,  32,  56. 
Fawcett,  I.,   126. 
Ferguson,  G.,  I.,  84. 
Ferrier,  II.,  118,  129,  148. 
Fish,  II.,   113,  311. 
Flanders,  II.,  126,  165. 
F.  M.  S.,  I.,  235,  241. 
Freshman,   II.,   143. 
Gage,  II.,  93. 
Gardiner,  Jos.,  I.,  124. 
Gardiner,  Dr.,  II.,  309. 
Garretson,   I.,   19. 
Gemley,  II.,  53,  61. 
General  Conference,  I.,  57 

165,    199,   295,   304;    II., 

348,  389,  402. 
George,  Bishop,  I.,  87,  95, 

142,  145- 
Goderich,  II.,  149,  197. 
Gooderham,  II.,  355,  391. 
Gray,  II.,  65,   109. 
Green,  IT.,  42,  98. 
Griffin,  N..  II.,  105. 
Grimsby,  II.,  31C. 
Guelph,  II.,  338. 
HalloM^ell,  I.,  115,  125,  14s, 
Hamilton,  I.,  125;  II.,  52, 

329- 
Hannah,  Dr.,  II.,  223. 
Harvard,  I.,  390,  404,  409; 

II,  53,  125. 
Hay  Bay,  I.,   lOi. 
Healy,  I.,  134;    H-,  68. 
Heck,  I.,  23,  46;    II.,  80. 
Heddmg,  I.,  142,  205. 
Hevland,  I.,   169,  202. 
Hibbard,  I.,  68. 
Hicks,  J.,  I.,  85. 
Holtby,  II.,  34,  37,  122,  140. 
Howard,  II.,  64. 


103, 
128, 


367, 


80, 
297, 

137, 


268. 
127, 

11., 


Hurlburt,  T.,  I.,  190,  404,  409, 

426;    II.,  90,  109,  273. 
Hurlburt,  Mrs.,  II.,  23. 
Jackson,  Mrs.,  II.,  332. 
Jacobs,  II.,  22,  87. 
Japan,  II.,  269,  288,  392. 
Jeffers,  II.,  60,  88. 
Jones,  R.,  I.,  127,  320;    II.,  44. 
Jones,  P.,  I.,  131,  135,  153,  198, 

267,  401;    II.,  84,  97,  113. 
Jubilee,   II.,    188-189. 
Keeler,  I.,  32. 
Kennedy,  G.,  II.,  50. 
Kilgour,  II,  387. 
Kincardine,  II.,  120. 
Kingston,  I.,  96,  225,  361,  409; 
II.,  25,  29,   62,  8r,   134,    152, 
227. 
Lang.,  I.,  272,;    II.,  41- 
Lawrence,  II.,  324. 
Lavell,  II.,  64. 
Lindsay,  II.,  311. 
London,  I.,  140;  II.,  50,  201. 
Lord,  I.,  344,  372,  378,  386. 
Losee,  I.,  27,  29. 

Lucas,  II.,  175. 

McCarthy,  I.,  27. 

McDougall,  G.,  II.,  77,  81,  91, 
176,  200,  321,  322. 

McDougall,  John,  II.,  289,  398. 

McFadden,  I.,  223. 

McGill  College,  II.,  46. 

McKendree,  I.,  108. 

Madden,  Th.,  I.,  211;    II.,  126. 

Manitoba,  II.,  241,  260,  401. 

Manly,  I.,  253,  440- 

Marsden,  I.,  319. 

Mason,  II.,  19,  124. 

Mathewson,  J.  A.,  II.,  124,  189, 
208. 

^lessmore,  I.,  139,  358. 

Metcalf,  I.,   loi,   126,  251. 

Methodist  Episcopal  Church, 
I.,  322,  357,  389,  446 ;  II.,  296, 
414. 

Methodist  New  Connexion 
Church,  I.,  272,  277,  283,  290, 

29s,  449- 
Metropolitan   Church.,  II.,  261. 
Missionary  Society,  I.,  147,  167. 
Montreal,  II.,  126,  129,  207,317, 

335,  348. 


432 


INDEX 


Muskoka,  II.,  312,  343. 

Neal,  I.,  24,  26. 

Nelles,  II.,  186,  252. 

New    Brunswick,    I.,    22;     II., 

340. 
Newfoundland,  I.,  13;  II.,  369. 
Niagara,  I.,  50,  66,  70,  297,  419. 
Norwood,  II.,  344. 
Nova  Scotia,  II.,  368. 
Oakville,  II.,  116,  125. 
Ontario    Ladies'    College.,    II., 

285,   292,   296,   301,   303,   304, 

333,  352,  357,  358,  365- 
Ottawa,  I.,  86,  124,  173 ;  II.,  20, 

137,  215,  294. 
Owen  Sound,  II.,  169. 
Palmer,  II.,  98. 
Peale,  I.,  94,  I33- 
Pembroke,  II.,  50,  287,  372. 
Perth,  I.,  174;  II.,  199. 
Picton,  II.,  94,  132,  307. 
Playter,   I.,    120;    IL,    170,    183, 

211,  218. 
Pope,  H.,  1,89,  118,  127. 
Port  Hope,  II.,  322. 
Primitive     Methodist     Church, 

I.,  28,  286 ;  II.,  183,  304,  406. 
Prince  of  Wales,  II.,  154,  156. 
Prohibition,  II,  310. 
Punshon,  II.,  219,  243,  253,  279, 

29s,  373- 
Quebec,  I.,  27;  II.,  183,  312. 
Reed,  F.,  I.,  103,  114,  122. 
Reynolds,  J.,  I.,  52,  56,  93.  334. 
Rice,  Dr.,  II., 106,  266,  403. 
Richardson,   I.,    209,    216,   239, 

263,  377,  382;  II.,  422. 
Richey,  I.,  376    ;    II.,  14,  61,  68. 
Robinson,  J.  H.,  II.,  279. 
Rutherford,  II.,  388. 
Rundle,  II.,  21. 
Ryan,  I.,  44,  73,   105,   i49.   i57, 

205,  324. 
Ryckman,  II. ,  277. 
Ryerson,   E.,   I.,    151,    176,    192, 

231,  316;    II.,  14,  19.  333,  348, 

382. 
Ryerson,  John,  I.,  123,  128,  138. 

272,  346;  II.,  28,  67,  84,  99. 
Ryerson,  Wm.,  I.,  113;    II.,  36- 
Rutherford,   Mrs.,   II.,  388. 
Samson,  I.,  60. 


Sanderson,  J.,  II.,  92,  325. 
Sanderson,  J.   E.,   II.,   130,  286, 

292,  305,  358. 
Sault  St.  Marie,  I.,  415;  II.,  327. 
Sawyer,   D.,   I.,  48,  58,  282. 
Sawyer,  Jos.,  I.,  36,  53;  1 1.,  93. 
Scott,  J.,  I.,  392. 
Selkirk,    IL,    98. 
Selkirk,  IL,  98. 
Shaler,  IL,  90. 
Slight,   I.,  441. 
Smith,  P.,  I.,  195,  397. 
Spencer,  IL,  156,  399. 
Squire,    W.,    I.,    164,    175,    227, 

256,  328;    II..  86. 
Stanstead,  I.,  164;  II. ,  214,  239, 

294,  337,  399- 
Steinhaur,  IL,  91,  121,  193,  355. 
Stinson,   Dr.,   I.,   144,  213,  237, 

312,  326,   361,   421,   431 ;     II. , 

H,  33- 
Strachan,  L,  120,  176,  184,  192; 

n.  14,  33- 
Stratford,  IL,  119. 
Strong,  J.   B.,  I.,  77. 
St.  Andrews,  IL,   124. 
St.  Clair,  I.,  351,  343,  351,  367. 
St.  Vincent,  II.,   133. 
Sunday,  J.,  I.,  244,  294,  437. 
Sutherland,    A.,    II. ,    386,    395, 

403- 
Tablet  Memo.,  IL,  323. 
Taylor,  L.,  IL,  55,  365- 
Taylor,  Mrs.,  1 1.,  98,  139. 
Temperance,    I.,   232;    II.,   340, 

346. 
Theological,  II. ,  265,  267. 
Three  Rivers,  I.,  56. 
Toronto,   I.,   332;     IL,  42,   230, 

237- 
Torrance,  IL,  301,  322. 
Torry,  I.,  95,  loi,  112,  125,  129, 

139- 
Trenton,  1 1.,  249. 
U.    C.    Academy,    I.,    267,    289, 

384;    II,  26. 
Union,    L,    273,   304,   318;     IL, 

55,    219,    272,    297,    381,    389. 

402. 
University,  II.,  142.  I45.  180. 
Vandusen,  C,  I.,  268;  IL,  148. 
Van  Norman,  IL,  77,  376. 


433 


INDEX 


Vaux,  L,  152.,  II.,  87,  363. 
Victoria    College,    IL,    28,    31, 

49,  162,  215,  233,  290. 
Victoria,  B.C.,  II.,  137,  364- 
Wakefield,  IL,  z()T. 
Waldron,  I.,   163.,  269,  327. 
Walker,  R.,  I.,  286;    II.  30. 
War,   1812,  I.,  63. 
Warner,  II,  no,  301. 
Webster,  G.,  IL,  150. 
Webster,  Th.,  L,  357,  420. 
Wesley,  II,   173,  240,  246,  323. 
Whitehead,  Th.,  I.,  46,  265,  2>-]Z  \ 

IL,   19,   52. 
Whiting,  R.,  IL,  '68,  287. 
Wilkinson,  H.,  I.,  139,  257,  339 , 

IL,  38,  50. 
Williams,  J.  A.,  IL,  402. 
Williams,  R.,  L,  78. 
Williams,  Th.,  IL,  69. 


Williams,    Wm.,    IL,    290,    318, 

38s. 
Willmott,  I.,  386. 
Winnipeg,  IL,  361. 
Withrow,  II. 
Wood,  E.,  II. ,  123,  361. 
Woodstock,  IL,  63,  loi. 
Woodsworth,  R.,  IL,  70,  253. 
Woolsey,  L,  32;    IL,  166,  176. 
Wooster,  I.,  35,  356. 
Workman,    Dr.,    IL,    204,    224, 

227. 
W.  C.  T.  U.,  IL,  388. 
W.  M.  S.,  IL,  374,  391- 
York,  I.,  52,  114,  123,  169,  257, 

303,  ZZ'2. 
Youmans,  Mrs.  IL,  388. 
Young,    Dr.    G.,    IL,    189,    225, 

232,  301,  326,  360,  367,  371- 
Yomig,  E.  R.,  IL,  289. 


§40 


4i4 


ilNDING  S^Cr.  AUG  2  7  13S5 


BX  3ander3on,  Joseph  liidward 

8251      The  first  century  of 
32      Methodism  in  Canada 

V.2 
cop.  2 


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